Write prose like the pros
As an amateur writer myself, I am always looking to improve my work and be the best that I can be. It can be
expensive to sign up for classes at the community college and online classes don't provide me with the socialization and feedback I need to really hone my skills. Fortunately, there are opportunities for me to practice that don't cost a dime at public libraries across the Hudson Valley.
At the Adriance Memorial Library, located at 93 Market Street in Poughkeepsie, there is a program for adults called Write, Write, and Re-Write. This program meets the third Saturday of the month and welcomes writers of all skill levels.
The best part? It's free and full of writers just like me! Whenever I have a bad case of writer's block or need honest feedback on a work in progress, my peers in this group provide amazing feedback that inspires me to keep going and lets me look at my work in a way I never have before.
So, grab your red pens and writing you have from any genre and join the next Write, Write, and Re-Write group on Saturday, October 19.
Strum along at the library
When I was in high school, I took ukulele lessons at a music
studio in Orange County. I learned how to play songs and sang along at local coffee shops and open mic nights.
It's been years since I picked up my ukulele to strum a few chords. Recently, I brushed the dust off my instrument and tried to see what I could remember. I am definitely a little rusty and my confidence about performing in public is non-existent.
That's why I was thrilled to find the Ukuleleans - Gardiner Library Ukulele Club at the Gardiner Library on 133 Farmer's
Turnpike in Gardiner. This group meets on the second
Wednesday of every month from 7-9pm and is completely free
to those looking to tighten up their ukulele skills.
The group is full of ukulele players of all ages and experience levels, from beginners to the expert level. The members of this welcoming group encourage others to play and learn and gain confidence with this uniquely upbeat instrument.
My days of playing in public are long behind me, but I wouldn't mind hopping on stage again. The Ukuleleans group gave me the opportunity to perform for the group which will hopefully help me build my confidence to perform in front of larger audiences (after a few more practices, of course!).
Move your career to the
next level
Are you a mom looking to get back into the work force, but don't even know where to start? The Newburgh Free Library, with locations at 124 Grand Street and 1401 Route 300 in Newburgh, is committed to assisting you in your career goals.
Get one-on-one help writing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews and using helpful sites like
LinkedIn. Become tech savvy and confident with computer classes and internet help, too.
The Newburgh Library offers classes that are open to all and always free so that anyone can get the help they need for a brighter future.
Practice mindfulness with some help
Each month, Pamela Zaitchick, RN, teaches this fun class where people can learn how to use various forms of meditation to attain the benefits of being mindful.
I am just beginning to approach the mindfulness lifestyle and appreciated that Nurse Zaitchick was willing to let group members stay an extra half hour after the regularly scheduled 90-minute meeting to chat and ask personal questions.
This class helps members work on being present in the moment in a
comforting and rewarding group setting. Explore mindfulness questions to build a practice that is just right for you.
Although you are not required to attend every month, spacing in this
program is limited. Join other mindful members in the RDN Community Room on October 22.