Category Archives: Troy, New York

Uncle Sam

Things to Know about Troy

Troy is situated on the eastern bank of the Hudson River, across from Albany. It has a long history that starts with the Native Americans of the area through the Dutch and English settlers. The city was an important trading post and early industrial center involving steelmaking and textile manufacturing. Today, Troy is home to several colleges and universities and a vibrant downtown community.

In 1813, the United States government got the nickname “Uncle Sam.” The name comes from a meat packer from Troy who supplied barrels of beef to the US Army during the War of 1812. Samuel Wilson (1766-1854) stamped the barrels “U.S.” for United States but soldiers began referring to the food as coming from Uncle Sam.

HVCC and ESE sign agmt

ESE signs agreement with HVCC

Articulation Agreement for International Students

On March 1st, Empire State English (ESE) and Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) signed an articulation agreement that will allow each school to transfer international students to the other. Students in the US on the F-1 visa, who would like to attend HVCC but don’t have strong enough English skills, can start at ESE to improve their English in our Intensive English Language Program, and then be transferred to HVCC to begin or continue their undergraduate studies.

Albany at Christmas

Holiday Events

Christmas is almost here! There's a chill in the air and the smell of peppermint and holly. Whether you've lived your entire life in Upstate New York or you're new to the area, there are lots of things to do.

Local Events

Saratoga Springs Victorian Streetwalk 2017
When: Thursday, Nov 30, 2017 - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Where: Various Locations in Saratoga Springs
Cost: FREE ADMISSION

Italian Christmas Market
When: Friday, Dec 1, 2017 until Sunday, Dec 3, 2017 - 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: American Italian Heritage Museum, 1227 Central Avenue Albany, NY 12205
Cost: FREE ADMISSION

Breakfast with Santa at St. Mary's School
When: Saturday, Dec 2, 2017 - 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Where: St. Mary's School, 40 Thompson Street Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Cost: $5 per person

Empire State Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting and Fireworks Festival
Music, ice skating, and more!
When: Sunday, Dec 3, 2017 - 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Where: Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York
Cost: FREE ADMISSION
Visit the website for the time of each activity: https://winter.empirestateplaza.org/

Troy's Victorian Stroll
When: Sunday, Dec 3, 2017 - 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: Troy
Cost: FREE ADMISSION
Meet CRLC and ESE students and staff at 1:00 PM at Monument Square!

For many more events, from candy houses to craft fairs, visit: https://www.albany.com/events/holiday/!

And don't forget the great outdoors! The Adirondacks, Berkshires, and Catskills are only a short drive away for winter hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Or try ice skating or snowmobiling.

If you'd like to explore more of the state, check out this list of the 10 Most Charming Small Towns in Upstate New York!

 

The Troy Victorian Stroll

Sunday, December 3rd, 2017 in Troy, NY, 11 AM – 5 PM.

Meet CRLC and ESE students and staff at 1:00 PM in front of the statue at Monument Square  (Broadway & 2nd Street).

Families and friends are welcome!

Please RSVP to info@crlcalbany.org or call us at 518-729-5407 so that we know to expect you on December 3rd.