Trolley History Lunch - 12/18

The University Club Foundation Presents 

Transit in the City of Albany 1862-1946: A Lunch Presentation by City Historian Tony Opalka  

Did you know that you can still see one of two surviving overhead wire poles from Albany’s trolley system on Hamilton Street near Lark?  

The city of Albany has a rich history of innovation and leadership in moving people from one place to another, and City Historian Tony Opalka will discuss “Transit in the City of Albany: 1862-1946” at a luncheon at the University Club of Albany, 141 Washington Avenue at Dove Street, on Wednesday, December 18 from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. 

The cost for the luncheon is $20, which may be paid at the door. The University Club will serve a hot and cold buffet from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m., with the program commencing at 12:30. Reservations for the December 18 luncheon are required by Monday, December 16 and may be made by calling the Club at 518-463-1151 or by sending an e-mail to ellen@universityclubalbany.com. 

Tony is well known for his popular and informative walking tours of Albany’s historic neighborhoods. Currently, he is employed as a historic preservation program analyst for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. His presentation will feature slides with historic images of transit in Albany, as well as trolley and transit artifacts.

If you wish to start your holiday celebrating a bit early, try an Albany Street Car – the U. Club’s spin on the classic Sidecar cocktail. It’s made with Quackenbush Still House Original Albany Rum (from the Albany Distilling Company), Cointreau and sour mix – and guaranteed to ring your bell!

This event is presented by the University Club of Albany Foundation, Inc., formed to recognize and maintain the unique historic and architectural significance of the University Club building and property, its historic neighborhood and the city of Albany, where it has been located since its inception in 1901. One need not be a member of the University Club to attend. Support for educational programming presented by the University Club Foundation is provided by AT&T. 

Duck Dinner + Support the Regional Food Bank - Friday, 11/15

An old tradition gets a new wrinkle ... 

105 years ago a group of University Club members got together and came up with the idea of holding an Annual Duck Dinner. The first one was held in November 1908 and right from the start it was a "roaring good time."

The Albany Evening Journal reported that there was something doing "from sunset and evening star till the last schooner slipped over the bar." Guests joined in a night of good-natured fun with singing, story-telling, games of pool and bridge, and the occasional dance number thrown in.

Duck Dinner traditions have evolved over the years. These days it's a chance to get together for a great meal, spend time with friends and, if you are very lucky, win yourself a frozen turkey - or three. It's quite a competition! Be sure to bring cash to buy chances for the turkey drawings and the 50/50!

This year, help us launch a new tradition - let's share the warmth of the season with our neighbors in need! You will have the option of donating your frozen turkey prizes to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York!  

The University Club will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items and checks made payable to "Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York" in the days leading up to the Duck Dinner and at the event. Foods in high demand include protein items (tuna, canned meat, peanut butter), prepared foods (canned stews, chili, ravioli, hearty soups) and cereal. 

The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. with drinks (sign or cash) steamed clams and hors d'oeuvres (complimentary) and at 7 p.m. dinner (choice of Roast Duck or Prime Rib - Baked Scrod is available by prior request) and the renowned turkey raffles.

The cost for the Duck Dinner is $24.95 (beverages additional). Guests are welcome! Reservations by 11/13 please. Call the club at 518-463-1151 or email ellen@universityclubalbany.com . Please provide: Name, Phone Number, # in your party, and entree choice (duck, beef or fish). 

We'll hope to see you there!