Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site, and Presidential Library and Museum Become Autism Supportive Environments
In 2015 and 2016, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site and Presidential Library and Museum completed Anderson Center for Autism’s Autism Supportive Environment training, a consultation and training program provided by the Anderson Center for Autism in cooperation with Dutchess County’s Think DIFFERENTLY initiative. This program trains staff to provide a better understanding of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and how to support their needs and the needs of their family members.  The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is currently receiving advanced support consultation to provide assistance in developing additional visual supports, such as a Social Story and a map containing alternate routes selected to allow visitors to avoid areas that may contain sensory stimuli (i.e., darkness/dimly lit (movie theater), higher noise volumes, etc.) while still remaining engaged in the exhibits. For more information on Autism Supportive Environment training for your organization or business, please click here, or email here.  

Historic Housekeeping Made Simple, New City, NY
The Greater Hudson Heritage Network is once again sponsoring its Historic Housekeeping Made Simple workshop at the Historical Society of Rockland County from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM on July 18. The full-day train-the-trainer workshop will focus on equipping attendees with the knowledge and skill sets necessary for cleaning, handling, and storing collections along with the tools to teach their volunteer base these critical skills. The Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area is proud to sponsor these workshops. More information and registration can be found here.

Scavenger Hunt at Oakwood Cemetery, Troy, NY
Oakwood Cemetery is hosting an hour-long scavenger hunt for families on July 18 at 6:00 PM.  Two levels of clues will be available for readers and non-readers in a new area different from last year’s hunt. Drag the kids away from those video games for some outdoor fun. For more information and to register, please call  1-800-556-6273, or e-mail here.

Music in the Parks, Hyde Park, NY
On July 19, August 2, and August 16, Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is hosting a series of free lawn concerts. Enjoy an evening of music with friends on the beautiful lush landscapes of the Vanderbilt Mansion overlooking the Hudson River. Outdoor concerts begin at 7:00 pm in June and July. August concerts begin at 6:30 pm. The entire 2017 schedule is available here. 

Aiming to Please at Knox's Headquarters, New Windsor, NY
On July 22 from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 PM, Revolutionary War cannons will fire every half hour in a program about the 1780-81 artillery encampment at Knox's New Windsor.  For more information about the Knox's Headquarters State Historic Site, please click here.

Olana Summer Party, Hudson, NY
On Saturday, July 22, the Olana State Historic Site is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a public work of art.  Guests will return to 1967 as top regional chefs will create 1967-inspired hors d'ouevres and a DJ will spin 1960's era tunes from Olana's East Lawn. For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here.

The Starry Road to Freedom, one-man Frederick Douglass show, Germantown, NY
On July 29 at 3:00 PM, the Clermont State Historic Site will host The Starry Road to Freedom. This a one-man show about the life and legacy of famed former slave, abolitionist, and orator Frederick Douglass. Starring the show’s creator, Phil Darius Wallace, this compelling, intimate play has been presented Off-Broadway and around the United States. It is an exploration of Douglass’ life from childhood to his career as a diplomat and statesman told through monologues, poetry, and song. This is a unique opportunity to meet the quintessential self-made man. This very special performance will be performed on the grounds of Clermont State Historic Site (rain or shine). Seating is on the lawn (bring a blanket or lawn chair) and is first come, first served.  To reserve your ticket, please click here.

Harlem Valley Rail Ride, Millerton, NY
On July 30, experience the summer's most beautiful bike ride.  Starting and finishing at Eddie Collins Field in Millerton, NY, this summer's bike ride and festival will feature eight routes varying in length from 23 to 100 miles along beautiful low-traffic country roads. Within each route, there will be a six-mile stretch of no traffic on the car-free Harlem Valley Rail Trail.  The conclusion of the event will be a BBQ festival.  For more information on the Harlem Valley Rail Ride, please click here.

Revolutionary Camp Night at the Historic Huts, New Windsor, NY
On August 5 from 7:30 to 9:00 PM, the New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site will host Revolutionary Camp Night at the Historic Huts. Candlelight military drills, musket firings and other period activities will take place at the encampment.  More information about the New Windsor Cantonment is here. 

Reading the Forested Landscape, A Natural History of New England, East Nassau, NY
On August 26 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance is hosting renowned ecologist and author Tom Wessels to lead a program based on his book Reading the Forested Landscape, A Natural History of New England. This program, meeting at the Hoags Corners Ambulance Corps and moving into the Albert Family Community Forest, will feature a walk in the woods that will be a forensic ecology expedition.  Tickets are available here.