An autumn inspection of the Erie Canal will take place today -- and it will be anything but routine.

Portions of the canal system suffered heavy damage in Tropical Storm Irene.

New York State Canals Director Brian Stratton will visit seven locks in Schenectady and Saratoga counties aboard a canal tugboat.

The Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library has announced its 2012 budget proposal that is scheduled to be voted on Sept. 15.  The proposal is $3,954,181 a 2.45 percent increase over 2011.  The tax levy portion of the budget is $3,651,139 a 2.94 percent increase.

According to a press release by the CPHPL, factors that are impacting the 2012 budget are a 34 percent increase in obligations to the state retirement system, an anticipated 89 percent decrease in interest income, and a decline in the growth of the tax base.  Although, these factors were somewhat offset by the use of previously appropriated funds, the enactment of a pay freeze, and cost reductions and holding the line on other variable cost increases.

The Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library will host "Introduction to Blogging" this upcoming Monday from 1 to 3 p.m.  This program is for beginners. The program will introduce participants to what blogging is all about.  The program will discuss how bloggers can post news, opinions, thoughts, and how blogs are a two way street of communication.

The only requirement is to have an established gmail account before entering the program.

Registration is requested for this program and can be made online, in person or by phoning the Library at 371-8622.