Wednesdays | 6 to 8 p.m. | Queensbury campus
This talk presents research on the relationship between grit and various outcomes, including academic achievement. We also discuss the results of an intervention aimed at bolstering grit and perceived control in middle school students. Learn about a new construct, dubbed agentic willpower, as well as the results of four studies that show agentic willpower to be related to various mood-related outcomes (i.e., happiness, stress, depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety and satisfaction with life), income, personality and GPA.
Instructor: Edward Sturman, Ph.D., co-chair of psychology, SUNY Plattsburgh at Queensbury
Sturman holds a Ph.D. in social/personality psychology from York University. He has conducted most of his work in the area of psychological assessment. His interests include evolutionary theories of mood disorder, with a particular focus on how various personality styles are connected to depression and anxiety. He has also conducted research into the degree of victory or defeat associated with various life events and how this impacts mood. More recently, he has been studying grit, which has been connected to academic performance.
Children are particularly sensitive to images they see on television or online. In an age of 24-hour news cycles and information that can be shared instantly on the internet, young children and adolescents are bombarded with information often related to disturbing world events. The events of the COVID-19 pandemic and frequent mass shootings can induce anxiety in children. This can, in turn, prevent academic and social success. This lecture focuses on explaining how disturbing images generate anxiety in children and what parents can do to help.
Instructor: Jeremy Grabbe, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, SUNY Plattsburgh at Queensbury
Grabbe earned his doctorate in applied cognitive aging psychology at the University of Akron. His research focuses on vision and attention as well as improving cognition among the aging population. Grabbe has authored multiple scientific papers, and he is the father of triplets and a son.
Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather when attending any tour, as some may be held outside. Unless otherwise indicated, participants who withdraw less than two weeks before a course begins will still be liable for any materials fees, and no refunds for materials fees will be issued after that time.
Weather Routing Tour (currently full; waitlisted)
March 22
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Weather Routing Inc., Glens Falls
Did you know Glens Falls is home to a private meteorological firm? Join us on a tour of this world leader in the marine industry since 1961. Your tour at Weather Routing Inc. includes the operations center for yachting and commercial divisions, followed by a discussion of services provided by Weather Routing to maritime clients worldwide.
Instructor: Weather Routing staff
Price: $19
CRN: 20121
An Architectural & Musical Treasure Tour in Glens Falls
April 5
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls
The First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls is one of the most significant architectural buildings in the North Country and is listed in National Register of Historic Places. Designed by famed American architect Ralph Adams Cram, the 1929 neo-Gothic building displays beautiful stonework, magnificent wood carvings and colorful stained-glass windows. The church is home to two large pipe organs, which you will experience in sight and sound. With more than 7,000 pipes ranging from the size of a pencil to 32 feet long, this world-renowned instrument is one of the 100 largest pipe organs in the world.
Bryan Kirk, music director and organist, will take you on an informative tour of the building. You’ll also have a chance to hear this magnificent instrument, from the softest ethereals to roof-raising and floor-shaking fortissimos. See rarely observed, behind-the-scenes views of the organ chambers, pipes and air reservoirs, and learn about the extensive music program and concerts the church offers our community.
Instructor: Bryan Kirk, First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls
Price: $19
CRN: 20122
Double H Ranch Tour
April 10
Wednesday | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Double H Ranch, Lake Luzerne
The Double H Ranch, located in Lake Luzerne, is a demonstration of the commitment and generosity of philanthropists Charles R. Wood and actor Paul Newman. Since Double H officially opened its doors July 4, 1993, it has served more than 80,000 children dealing with life-threatening illnesses from around the world. Learn more about who Double H serves and what volunteer opportunities are available.
Please note: Please wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.
Instructor: Double H Ranch staff
Price: $19
CRN: 20115
Haunted Tour & Chocolate Making (currently full; waitlisted)
April 13
Saturday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Barkeater Chocolates Factory, North Creek
This two-hour session focuses on the haunted history of the Barkeater Chocolates factory and finishes off with a sweet hands-on experience. While we will cover real-life unexplained events and sometimes mysterious historical facts, the session is rated PG. Mature kids are welcome to join the group, per their guardians’ discretion. You will hear firsthand accounts of some creepy happenings combined with the sometimes mysterious, sometimes tragic history of the old building and grounds. After we cover the paranormal, we’ll do a chocolate demo in which you’ll be able to make your own chocolate ghost to enjoy on the spot or take home.
Please note: If you have any food allergies, please notify Continuing Education when registering for this course.
Instructor: Deb Morris, Barkeater Chocolates
Price: $45 (Course price includes a $30 materials fee.)
CRN: 20123
Health, History, Horses: An Inside Look at the National Museum of Racing
April 12
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame, Saratoga Springs
For more than 70 years, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame has preserved and promoted thoroughbred history and honored racing’s most accomplished participants. In this exclusive tour, you’ll get a firsthand look at its vast collection of artifacts, paintings and memorabilia from 400 years of horse racing in America. Take a ride on a racing simulator and feel what it takes to be a jockey. You’ll also look at archives and see how the museum preserves its collection. You’ll even get to have some firsthand experience doing registrar work in a real museum setting.
Please note: Students wishing to ride the racing simulator must sign and return a release form before the course. Riders must have long pants and closed-toed shoes. Prior horseback experience is recommended, but not required. Students can enter the museum from the Ludlow Street entrance, where there is parking.
Instructor: Matt Reichel, museum educator
Price: $19 (Course price includes a $5 materials fee.)
CRN: 20126
A Day at Etain NEW! (currently full; waitlisted)
April 19
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Etain facility, Chestertown
Etain is a women-founded medical cannabis cultivation, manufacturing and dispensing company based in Chestertown. You will go behind the scenes and see the craft of creating Etain products, from seed to final goods. Learn about the different departments and careers within the cannabis industry.
Please note: Students must be 18 years or older and will need a valid ID to enter the facility, as required by the state of New York.
Instructor: Corinne Klewsaat
Price: $19
CRN: 20133
Rogers Island Tour
April 24
Wednesday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Rogers Island Visitors Center
We will walk around the site of the island barracks, monuments and graveyard, and tour the Visitors Center exhibits and collection. Learn about this historical site, where Native Americans hunted and fished long before the first Europeans arrived, and discover its fascinating military history and the significant role Rogers Island played in the French and Indian War. Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged.
Instructor: R. Paul McCarty, Old Fort House Museum
Price: $19
CRN: 20118
Warren County Fish Hatchery Tour
April 20
Saturday | 10 a.m. to noon | Warren County Fish Hatchery, Warrensburg
This guided tour will start off at the Visitor Center, where you will learn how the hatchery operates and stocks fish, and view fish mounts and displays. Under Warren County’s program, domestic brook and rainbow trout, wild strains of brook trout and salmon are raised to provide improved sport fishing throughout Warren County waters. During your private tour, you will also have an opportunity to visit the Hatchery Building, where the egg-hatching process takes place, and observe the extensive water system that keeps fish alive. Depending on the spring stocking schedule, your tour will continue to 11 different ponds that hold fish at different stages of their lives, including the Display Pond, where you can get a close-up view of mature trout.
Please note: Participants should wear proper clothing for this activity and dress for the weather.
Instructor: Warren County Fish Hatchery staff
Price: $15
CRN: 20124
Grant Cottage Tour (currently full; waitlisted)
April 26
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Ulysses S. Grant Cottage, Wilton
Grant Cottage National Historic Landmark, state historic site and literary landmark, is the final home of Ulysses S. Grant, Civil War commanding general of the U.S. Army, 18th U.S. president, and beloved American public figure. Grant moved to the cottage in 1885 at the request of his doctors to benefit from the natural beauty and so-believed healing properties of Mt. McGregor. With the love and support of his family, his publisher, Mark Twain, and the nation at large, he completed “The Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant” days before his death July 23, 1885. The publication of this two-volume work remains the longest continuously in-print publication. The work ensured his family’s financial security and gave the world one of the most critically acclaimed memoirs by a U.S. president or historic military figure.
Today, the cottage remains almost the same as during the Grant family’s stay. Visitors tour the downstairs of the cottage, viewing original furnishings, decorations and personal items belonging to Grant, including floral arrangements that remain from his funeral.
Instructor: Grant Cottage staff
Price: $19 (Course price includes an $8 materials fee.)
CRN: 20132
Pleasant Valley Farm Tour
April 29
Monday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Pleasant Valley Farm, Argyle
Paul and Sandy Arnold will lead you around their small family farm, which produces more than 40 kinds of vegetables, fruits and herbs year round using organic methods. This tour includes three large high tunnels, where winter greens will still be growing, as well as a washing station area, where all produce is washed and packed for weekly distribution in the community through online sales, wholesale and farmers markets. Participants can see the greenhouse, where transplants are grown on radiant-heated rolling benches, and the start of field production on 4 acres. The farm was started in 1988 and is fully solar powered with technology to keep operations efficient. Participants will have an opportunity to snack on spring produce and purchase some if they wish.
Instructors: Paul and Sandy Arnold, owners of Pleasant Valley Farm
Price: $19
CRN: 20125
Tour & Lunch at Skene Manor (currently full; waitlisted)
May 3
Friday | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Skene Manor, Whitehall
Enjoy a visit to Skene Manor, Whitehall’s Castle on the Mountain, which is one of the few remaining castles in northeast New York. The castle was constructed of stone blocks cut right out of the mountain that frames the manor. This magnificent structure shows turn-of-the-century craftsmanship rarely duplicated today. Your day will include a lunch of homemade soup, sandwiches, beverages and dessert served in the tea room. You will also have the opportunity to tour Skene Manor, where you will experience the grandeur that exemplified turn-of-the-century wealth.
Please note: You will be contacted before the tour for your sandwich order. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The manor has stairs only; there is no elevator.
Instructor: Skene Manor staff
Price: $35 (Course price includes a $25 materials fee.)
CRN: 20127
Bakers Falls Tour
May 8
Wednesday | 1 to 3 p.m.
Meet at the stone wall in front of 50 Main Street in Hudson Falls, north of the John Street corner
Join us on a tour of the hamlet of Bakers Falls. We will tour historic Baker Cemetery and the immediate John Street neighborhood in addition to industrial neighborhoods. Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged.
Instructor: R. Paul McCarty, Old Fort House Museum
Price: $19
CRN: 20136
New Skete Monasteries Tour (currently full; waitlisted)
May 10
Friday | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | New Skete Monasteries, Cambridge
Experience breathtaking churches, extensive gardens, a waterfall feature and the peace and solitude of New Skete! Learn about its history, art and culture. This guided tour includes churches, with one of the brothers giving a lecture on their history and icons depicted on the walls, a question-and-answer session and a visit to the Meditation Garden. You may even catch a glimpse of the famed New Skete German shepherds. The tour ends with a visit to the monks’ gift shop and a stop at the nuns’ monastery for an opportunity to purchase cheesecake to take home.
Instructor: Brother Gregory
Price: $25 (Course price includes a $10 materials fee.)
CRN: 20117
Merchants & Mansions Walking Tour NEW!
May 16
Thursday | 1 to 3 p.m.
Corner of Circular Street & Union Avenue, across from Congress Park, Saratoga Springs
During the Gilded Age, Saratoga was famous for its grand hotels. Village guests shopped each afternoon in the stores owned by merchants, many of whom lived on Phila Street, while homes on Union were often summer residences of the captains of industry and bankers. Learn more on this fascinating walking tour.
Please note: Participants must wear comfortable shoes. The course price includes a copy of a book by Hollis Palmer.
Instructor: Hollis Palmer, Ph.D., Gilded Age/Victorian historian and author, Derby Tours
Price: $25 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 20128
A Tour to the 1800s: A Look at a Different Era NEW!
May 17
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Parks-Bentley Place, South Glens Falls
Join us for a journey at Parks-Bentley Place. Visit the “keeping room” and hear a short history of the settlers on the Parks Farm and the original part of the house. In the parlor, learn about the Bentley family, especially Harriet Bentley, and look at the “newer” Victorian part of Parks-Bentley Place. See the 1812 schoolhouse, the No. 8 building for Moreau school district. Discover how one-room schoolhouses operated and take a look at the curriculum. Visit “A Simpler Time” toolshed, which includes tools from homes, farms and industries used by 19th-century inhabitants. Finally, the summer kitchen contains many household items and tells how they were used in the 1800s.
Instructor: Nancy Purinton, Outreach Program presenter at Parks-Bentley Place
Price: $19
CRN: 20130
The Perimeter of Woodlawn Walking Tour NEW!
May 22
Wednesday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Corner of First Street & North Broadway, Saratoga Springs
Parking is on the street
Although it is gone now, the site of the Skidmore campus was, at one time, a park named Woodlawn. Like New York City’s Central Park, Woodlawn was a park the public was encouraged to visit, and some of the most successful Albany, Troy and Schenectady families built grand Gilded Age cottages on what was to be the perimeter. This tour consists of two loops and a stretch in between.
Instructor: Hollis Palmer, Ph.D., Gilded Age/Victorian historian and author, Derby Tours
Price: $25 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 20129
Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport Tour
May 18
Saturday | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury
Join Miriam Enman, with her vast knowledge and enthusiasm for aviation, on a tour of Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport in Warren County. Learn the history of the airport and its role in the community — past, present and future. Your guided tour will also include the airport grounds, facilities, terminal building, ramp, hangars and tie-down areas. An overview of the types of aircraft serviced and based at the airport is also part of the tour.
Please note: Participants should wear proper clothing for this activity and dress for the weather.
Instructor: Miriam Enman
Price: $19
CRN: 20134
Dancing Grain Farm Brewery Tour NEW!
May 24
Friday | 2 to 4 p.m. | Dancing Grain Farm Brewery, Moreau
Dancing Grain Farm Brewery is a field-to-glass brewery in Moreau specializing in the production of high-quality grains via regenerative agricultural growing methods to make environmentally friendly and wildly flavorful craft beers. Take a tour of the farm and brewery to learn how they go from ground to glass.
Please note: Participants who are 21 and older will have an opportunity to sample some beer; valid ID is required to participate in the beer sampling.
Instructor: Rachel McDermott
Price: $25 (Course price includes a $15 materials fee.)
CRN: 20135
Step Back in Time at the Historic Feeder Canal
May 29
Wednesday | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Tour meets by the silos at 72 Maple Street, Hudson Falls
Learn about the historic Glens Falls Feeder Canal, which has contributed to the evolution and growth of Glens Falls and the region since the 1820s. Visit various sites and experience what canal life was like 100 years ago.
Please note: Participants should wear proper clothing for this activity and dress for the weather.
Instructor: Pattie Simone, executive director, Feeder Canal Alliance
Price: $19
CRN: 20116
Shushan Covered Bridge Museum Tour NEW!
May 31
Friday | 1 to 3 p.m. | Shushan Covered Bridge Museum, Shushan
Shushan Covered Bridge Museum is housed in a covered bridge built in 1858 by Stevens Bros. The bridge is of Town Lattice Truss construction, 161 feet long. The Town Lattice truss design was one of about 20 wooden-bridge truss types developed during the 19th century. Patented Jan. 1, 1820, by Ithiel Town, an architect from Bridgeport, Connecticut, it was extensively promoted by him throughout the south. By 1840 it had become one of a few standard types chosen by local builders because of its ease of construction. The bridge was abandoned by the county in 1962 and sat in disrepair for more than 10 years until it was saved by Shushan Covered Bridge Association, which converted it into a museum.
A collection of period machinery and farm implements, many in working order, are used by visitors for hands-on demonstrations. A few yards from the bridge entrance stands a one-room schoolhouse that was in continuous use from 1852 to 1943. The school is open to visitors and is furnished with desks and texts from the 19th century.
Instructor: Arek Gordon, museum guide
Price: $19
CRN: 20131