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New Leb’s reassessment is completed, but people may have questions

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–Assessor Kimberly Smith has completed a town-wide reassessment, which means some changes. There are many factors that come into play as to the bottom line on […]

HHA plans get nod from the state, Phase 1 discussed

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) and its redevelopment partner continue preparing their plan to erect new housing, while maintaining existing housing as long as people live there, […]

St. Patrick’s Day parade returns to East Durham after 30+ years

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media EAST DURHAM — There was plenty of green to be seen in East Durham on Sunday as the community turned out in droves […]

The housing insecurity crisis continues

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–February brought another report about the housing crisis in the state, this time from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, amid continuing efforts locally to mitigate the […]

Village elections March 19: Many names, few choices

By EMILIA TEASDALE GHENT—The four villages in the county will hold elections on Tuesday, March 19. In three of the villages there are only trustee openings and Chatham, Valatie and […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Help save our amphibians

By NANCY JANE KERN OUR FIRST SPRING AMPHIBIAN to come to mind is the “peeper,” but it is not necessarily the first to present itself to us, and this other […]

Sups approve continuing telepsychiatry, accept opioid abatement funds

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Department of Human Services (DHS) received a go-ahead to continue its measures related to telepsychiatry and opioid abatement funds, from the county Board of […]

Local business association sees record growth

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media Around 50 members of the Ravena Coeymans Selkirk Community Business Association (RCS CBA) and their guests gathered last Thursday at Patrick Henry’s […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: St. Patrick’s Day parade is back in East Durham

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media I love a good parade. There’s an enormous sense of community, respect, pride and warmth that is only similarly echoed at a […]

Social Security Matters: Will my benefit increase if I work while collecting disability?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I will be 64 in March and currently receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments. My full retirement age is […]

The Retired Investor: No college degree required?

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media In today’s tight job market, many companies are dropping the required college degree. Time was that if you wanted to get ahead, […]

Living on Purpose: When emotions attempt to control us

Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media How often do you hear it’s not what happens to us, but how we respond? We know we will face trials in […]

Positively Speaking: Never say…

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Enemies. We all have them. Some people are your enemy, and you don’t even know it. They may have been motivated by […]

Whittling Away: In case of emergency…

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Having grown up in the middle years of the last century, I was introduced to a couple of phrases or mottos that […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – March 7, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – March 6, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

RCS district clarifies future focus

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — As part of the budget development process, RCS is looking at the needs and challenges of the district moving forward. District […]

Obituary: David A. Jennings

David A. Jennings, of Greenville, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, at the age of 72. David was born on Dec. 5, 1951, and was a son of the […]

Greenville could see jump in foundation aid

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE —  Many rural school districts in New York state are expected to see a decline in foundation aid if Gov. Kathy Hochul’s […]

Faith and community pulled them through

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — When hard times hit, oftentimes it is the support of family and sometimes total strangers that can make the intolerable, tolerable. […]

Alleged sexual predator arrested in Claverack

By DIANE VALDEN CLAVERACK—State Police in conjunction with the Columbia County Child Advocacy Center arrested Gregory Brusso, 66, of Claverack for predatory sexual assault against a child, a class A-II […]

EDITORIAL: State must enact the Local Journalism Sustainability Act

AS OBJECTIVE AND INDEPENDENT news writers and editors, we have an imperative to cover the issues most important to the people of Columbia County. Every day, our team is on […]

Post celebrates Captain Nazario’s 100th birthday

STOCKPORT—The American Legion Post 184 held a party on March 2 for post member and veteran Esther Maria Nazario who turned 100 years old that day.Ms. Nazario was born March […]

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH: Chinn’s story told as historic sites hope to start a conversation

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE MARTIN VAN BUREN National Historic Site and the Columbia County Libraries Association sponsored a talk, “Finding Julia: Centering Black Women in Antebellum History,” at the […]

Two top administrators exit Chatham School District

By EMILIA TEASDALE CHATHAM–Chatham School Superintendent Sal DeAngelo is retiring effective July 1. The board met in January to begin discussing the search for a new superintendent and at a […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Short-eared owls

By NANCY JANE KERN IT IS A THRILL watching the nimble aerial acrobatics of several football-sized owls. Short-eared owls migrate down from the north for the winter. We think of […]

Water: what can you do?

Last in a series By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–As Bard’s M. Elias Dueker points out, the best thing we can do about the safety of our drinking water is to […]

Spencer joins the Spencertown Fire Company

SPENCERTOWN–The Spencertown Fire Company (SFC) has announced that they have officially adopted Spencer the beaver as their mascot. Spencer was created by Chatham High School (CHS) senior Alexis Meyers and […]

Horses of Unbridled: March birthdays at Unbridled Sanctuary

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media As the buds of spring begin to unfold, marking a season of renewal and new beginnings, so too does a remarkable celebration […]

Forest ranger teaches fire safety lessons

Food delivered to those who need it Barrett supports Rescuing EMS Campaign ALBANY—Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-106th) stood with the New York Association of Counties (NYSAC) and legislative colleagues in support […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Great Migration has profound effect on history of Coeymans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A watershed time period in American history directly led to the construction of one of Coeymans’ major landmarks. Riverview Missionary Baptist […]

Hundreds lobby state legislators to support local journalism

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Members of Capital Region Independent Media’s leadership team traveled to the state Capitol on Feb. 27 to join with other industry […]

Social Security Matters: Why must I pay into Social Security when I’m collecting benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I am collecting full Social Security benefits at age 72 and also working full-time. Why is the federal government still […]

Living on Purpose: Grace that is greater than all our sin

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Since you were conceived God has wanted your attention. He has never neglected or ignored you. If you were to write […]

Positively Speaking: Starting over

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Starting all over again often feels like carrying the weight of an ending. It’s challenging to move forward when your thoughts are […]

Whittling Away: Routines

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’m starting to like routines.  Routines are comfortable — doing the same things in the same order means that all is well […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald –February 29, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald –February 27, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

District trying to whittle budget down to 2.5% tax increase

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — It’s deep into budget season right now, and the board of education has instructed the school district to try to whittle […]

J-Park Ice Bowl: ‘No Wimps, No Whiners’

Competitors help to feed the hungry 18 years running By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The 18th annual J-Park Ice Bowl went off without a hitch as […]

Finneran seeks to challenge Tague for Assembly seat

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — Cairo resident Mary Finneran is looking to unseat three-term Assemblyman Chris Tague, who announced his bid for re-election in January. Mary […]

Ancram wins $12K+ to combat invasive impacts

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—Ancram is the only town in Columbia County to be awarded a piece of the $3 million pie earmarked to address the negative effects of invasive species. […]

Summer camp changes coming in New Lebanon

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–During the January meeting of the New Lebanon Town Board, summer camp rates were discussed as well as the provision that children and grandchildren of town […]

County renews contracts for bus service

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–At its February 14 meeting, the Columbia County Board of Supervisors authorized extending its contracts with bus companies to provide public transportation and purchasing a new bus. […]

COUNTY BRIEF: News from the County Board of Supervisors

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG The Columbia County Board of Supervisors gave support to several ongoing programs and services at its meeting February 14. Board Chairman Matt Murell (Stockport) read a proclamation […]

Jolene Race appointed executive director of county Recovery Kitchen

HUDSON–Jolene Race has assumed the position of Executive Director of the Columbia County Recovery Kitchen. She formerly served as director of the Columbia County Solid Waste Department where she oversaw […]

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: History interpreter speaks on foundation of slavery in NY

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE IRVINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY in Westchester County presented a talk, “Correcting The Foundational Years of Slavery in New Netherland/New York,” via Zoom on Sunday, February 11. […]

Rescue squad bids farewell to retiring chief

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena Rescue Squad recently bid a fond farewell to Chief Brian Dunican, who retired from the position after six years […]

Horses of Unbridled: Finding family: LadyBug’s path to trust and togetherness

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Amid the fields of Unbridled Sanctuary, a young life of one year frolics freely with her friends. She is a leggy filly […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Town Board praises longtime historian

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—She was the guardian of town history for nearly three decades. Clara Van Tassel, 85, retired from her post as town historian as of the first of […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: How to find information on iron foundries in Oak Hill

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media In the last couple of weeks three people have asked me about where they could find information on the Oak Hill […]

GOOD NEWS!: Ravena’s Rocket Man soars to great heights

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — In every small town across America, in home offices, at kitchen tables, in basements, in garages and in old barns, human […]

GNH Lumber brings building trades to life for area students

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — There are declining numbers of young people going into the building trades, but the local BOCES program and Greenville-based GNH Lumber […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Sleeping like a baby

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media THAT was just the teaser. Honestly, the question on the minds of mostly everyone is, “How do we… sleep like a baby […]

The Retired Investor: The chocolate crisis

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Editor’s Note: NYVT Media is pleased to offer a new column, “The Retired Investor” by financial columnist Bill Schmick. We hope you […]

Living on Purpose: Negativity is not cheering for us to succeed

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I want to begin today by saying how much I appreciate you for being a faithful reader of this newspaper and […]

Positively Speaking: Forgive and forget

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media My mom always said to me, “Toby, just forgive and forget.” I always thought, “Of course, just forgive and forget.” But when […]

Whittling Away: My, how things have changed

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media In spite of my advancing age, there are still those rare moments when things snap into focus. It’s at these times that […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 22, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – February 20, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

THROUGH THE WOODS: A Messy Woods

By NANCY JANE KERN HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED the style or history of a forest? In the Adirondack Mountains of NY State, there are forest areas where nature has been […]

History as Ecology walk looks at bricks in Greenport Conservation Area

By DAVID LEE GREENPORT–Conrad and Claudia Vispo founded the Hawthorne Valley Farmscape Ecology Program in 2003 as a research and outreach program.The Vispos have led a series of walks in […]

Obituary: Susan B. Carhart

RAVENA – Susan B. Carhart, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024. Born in Ravena on April 10, 1930, she was a daughter of the late Lloyd and […]

Horses of Unbridled: A legacy of compassion

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the tapestry of life at Unbridled Sanctuary, every thread tells a story of resilience, hope and the transformative power of compassion. […]

Many firefighters put in a busy afternoon

By DIANE VALDEN STOCKPORT—Columbia 911 dispatched the Stockport Fire Department and the Greenport Rescue Squad for a reported structure fire at 1094 Route 9, Tuesday, February 20 at 1:39 p.m. […]

HHA discusses keeping up the old building while planning for new ones

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–At the Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) Board of Commissioners meeting February 12, residents of HHA buildings called for improving and maintaining their current apartments, and HHA’s redevelopment […]

Elected officials gather to plot a course for the future

By Marlene McTigue  For Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Last Monday evening, at the Ravena Village Hall every member of the Town of Coeymans Board and the Village of […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

A full- or part-time supervisor in New Lebanon is debated

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–The previous New Lebanon Town Board agreed to change the position of Town Supervisor from part-time to full-time. That has gone unchallenged until the board’s February […]

ICC to state OSC: Our math is better than yours

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—The Ichabod Crane Board of Education discussed the electric school bus mandate at the board’s regular meeting February 6. The board also heard the third budget presentation […]

Top 5ive awards seek community changemakers

By MELANIE LEKOCEVIC Capital Region Independent Media GHENT–There are scores of individuals, businesses and community groups that are making our communities a better place, and Capital Region Independent Media wants […]

Clermont hosts Black History Story Hour

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY CLERMONT–The Clermont Historic Site hosted a “Black History Story Hour” at its Visitors Center on Saturday, February 3 at 1 p.m. Jane Miller, a Clermont volunteer […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Be My Valentine

By NANCY JANE KERN IT IS VALENTINE’S DAY THIS WEEK, and the signs are here with daylight hours lengthening and bird songs beginning to change as they “tune up” for […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Within winter’s stillness 

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media There’s a very compelling silence evident within the days and nights of winter’s presence. Without even leaving your home, you can feel […]

Social Security Matters: Should I claim Social Security at 68, or wait until I’m 70?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I have a question regarding my SS benefits. I turned 68 this month and work part-time. I earned $28,000 last […]

Living on Purpose: Loving God is far beyond religious knowledge

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Our regular readers know this column is about the Christian life, but you certainly do not need to be a Christian […]

Positively Speaking: Dreams versus visions

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve always been a cheerleader for chasing dreams, but sometimes, I miss a crucial piece of the puzzle. It’s not just about […]

Whittling Away: Aging

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The process of aging fascinates me.  Everything in nature goes through the transition from young to old. It’s been going on for […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 15, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald –February 13, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Bonnie Jean Kearney

Bonnie Jean Kearney, “Bon Bon,” born on June 25, 1956, in Catskill, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Raised in Preston Hollow and a graduate […]

Debate reopens on town’s paper of record

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council will take another look at which newspaper should be the town’s official paper of record. The newspaper that […]

New Lebanon offers well testing for residents

By PETER FLIERL NEW LEBANON–Peg Munves, co-chair of the New Lebanon Conservation Advisory Council (CAC), led a discussion and presentation on water well testing and contamination for residences in the […]

Suspect allegedly slashed motel resident

By DIANE VALDEN CLAVERACK—State Police from the Livingston barracks arrested Nicholas P. Beer, 48, of Claverack for second degree assault and third degree criminal possession of a weapon, both class […]

Village backs plan for wider car-bike roadway

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—The Village of Kinderhook Board voted 4 to 1 in favor of sending preliminary plans for the Albany Avenue Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvement project to the state […]

MY VIEW: My weight loss journey: A path of determination and transformation

By Warren Dews Jr. Capital Region Independent Media Editor’s Note: We are pleased to bring our readers the second installment in an ongoing series about the weight loss journey of […]

GOOD NEWS!: Herwick named Capital Zone Teacher of the Year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS teacher Brandon Herwick was named Teacher of the Year by the New York State Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation […]

Vulture culture makes for unpleasant neighbors

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—If you got the strange feeling you were being watched as you went about your business in the Copake hamlet recently, you may have been right. If […]

Acomb headed to state wrestling championship

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS wrestler Jayden Acomb will advance to the state wrestling championships at the MVP Arena in Albany this weekend. Acomb, who […]

Horses of Unbridled: Celebrating 20 years of Unbridled Sanctuary

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In East Durham, amidst the scenic Catskill Mountains, Five Furlongs Tavern buzzed with anticipation. On Feb. 4, at 4 p.m., the tavern […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Water: Add a little salt and an anti-depressant…a recipe for pollution

Part 5 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–Every street and road drains water that works its way into ditches or through the ground and eventually into the water supply. When we […]

New Leb designated a pro-housing community

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–According to Town Supervisor Tistrya Houghtling, New Lebanon is one of the first 20 municipalities around New York State to receive a pro-housing community designation. Simply […]

Business association hosts Marketing Matters event

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media The late, great PT Barnum once said, “Without promotion, something terrible happens… nothing!” That sentiment was at the core of the Ravena Coeymans […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: What did the CCC and WPA do for our local area?

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media This week I was rereading one of my favorite local diaries from the 1930s: Jan. 20: Lots of snow about two […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Showing up

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media I’m constantly looking for answers as to why there seems to be so many wonderful activities and programs out there for every […]

Social Security Matters: How is my Social Security benefit calculated?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I appreciate your recent article dispelling the myth that politicians have stolen Social Security money. As a CPA, I dispel […]

Living on Purpose: Do we love sin more than God?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media A few weeks ago, we talked about a man named Achan and how his secret sin was not a secret to […]

Positively Speaking: Learning from loss

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Loss is a part of everyone’s life, as common as the air we breathe. It’s one of those things we all face […]

Whittling Away: Daydreaming

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I have been schizophrenic for as long as I can remember. I think everybody is to a certain extent.  I’m not talking […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 8, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald –February 6, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

More Than One Hundred New York State Newspapers Form Coalition to Advocate for Local Journalism Amid Turbulent Times and Increasing Closures

Nearly half of New York State’s weekly newspapers have closed, more than 3,000 newspapers have closed nationwide since 2005 NEW YORK – Today, a statewide group of local news organizations, […]

One dead in village fire

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — An unidentified individual was found deceased during an early morning fire Wednesday in the village. Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple Sr. […]

Police: Freehold man charged in armed burglary

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media FREEHOLD — A Freehold man was arrested Wednesday in connection with an alleged armed burglary in Westerlo, according to state police. Joseph M. […]

District seeking new principal as Mahan steps down

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — It’s the end of an era. Peter Mahan, longtime principal of Scott Ellis Elementary School, has retired from the district after […]

EDITORIAL: What are we doing?

By PARRY TEASDALE I’M WORRIED ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE. I’m wondering how are we going to get most of us working together to get out of the messes we’re making with […]

Local housing issues and solutions presented at event

By DAVID LEE COPAKE–Ancram Affordable Housing Committee held the first of what it hopes will be a series of conventions bringing together the expertise of diverse organizations to talk about […]

LIBRARY OFFERINGS: Local libraries give free museum passes

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY HUDSON–The Columbia County Libraries Association (CCLA) ushered in the New Year with a free museum pass program for county residents with a library account in good […]

Obituary: Anthony Gatt

Anthony Gatt, 87, died on Feb. 13, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Greece, he was the son of Andrew and Marie Gatt of Chania, Greece. Anthony loved his family […]

GOOD NEWS!: Greenville schools’ snow day videos go viral

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media If you decide to head over to the Greenville Central School District’s social channels, you’re in for a treat. The district’s clever and […]

College & Military Corner

Sarah Franchini, of Ravena, was named to the fall 2023 dean’s list at Wofford College. Dylan Duvall, a member of the Class of 2027 from Delmar, was named to the [...]

RCS takes 2nd in Section 2 Class CC tournament

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians took second place in the Section 2 Class CC wrestling tournament held in Glens Falls last weekend. RCS scored […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A Winter Garden of Amaryllis

By NANCY JANE KERN A FEW OF MY “YOUNGSTERS” insist on giving me something for Christmas, so over the years I have told them I would like an amaryllis bulb. […]

PETA offers $5K reward in dog abandonment case

CRARYVILLE—People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) offers a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction on cruelty charges of the person(s) […]

More concerns about 11 Warren St. plan voiced

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–At a hearing in Hudson January 24, Columbia County officials presented plans for the recently bought building at 11 Warren Street while other officials and residents raised […]

The Great Migration and Riverview church

COEYMANS — The next program of the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society, scheduled for Feb. 11, at 2 p.m., will feature retired co-pastors of the Riverview Missionary Baptist Church, the Rev. […]

A Valentine for all times: The love between Steve and Kelly

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Once upon a time, for real, in the world of horse racing, there was a valiant and spirited Thoroughbred named Steve’s Adventures. […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed.

Hecate’s application denied by ORES

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The legal fight isn’t over, but score this round to the Land of Rural Charm: Hecate Energy’s Shepherd’s Run Solar Project application has been rejected. Hecate says […]

Backpack program seeking monetary donations

The backpack program at Scott M. Ellis Elementary School is run by the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York and helps alleviate child hunger by discreetly providing children in […]

Friends group in the works for the RCS library

By Marlene McTigue  Capital Region Independent Media What happens when you get three ex-presidents of the RCS Community Library’s Board of Trustees in a room together? Big ideas are hatched.  […]

Social Security Matters: Will my WEP reduction go away if I continue working?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I’m 63 years old and have not yet started my Social Security. I now work for the State of Illinois […]

Living on Purpose: Calculating the cost of being close to God

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media We talked about taking a stand for Christ last week, but being a Christian is also a walk which in the […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: Crumbs

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media My mind is on one metaphorical track at the moment. Obviously yours is too because you’re curious enough to just keep reading.  […]

Positively Speaking: The obstacle person

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I was recently reading Norman Vincent Peale’s renowned book, ‘”The Power of Positive Thinking.” In it, a chapter titled “I Don’t Believe […]

Whittling Away: Life is not fair

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Like an old beagle on his daily route around the neighborhood, I have my daily routine to follow.  One of my daily […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 1, 1924 – F. E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 30, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

County schools face ‘devastating’ budget cuts

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–“Crushing,” “draconian,” “devastating” and “inequitable” are among the terms that local school superintendents and others use to describe the cuts to public schools funding proposed by […]

Group captures big but mellow range at the Grange

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY COPAKE–The Copake Grange presented the Copake Quintet, who performed a two-set program of Jazz, Latin and bossa nova tunes as well as soft classic rock and […]

Suffering dog left by the roadside

By DIANE VALDEN CRARYVILLE—A dog in distress was deserted by the side of Route 23 in the hamlet, the evening of Thursday, January 25. The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) and […]

Austerlitz Board starts the year looking at audits

By PETER FLIERL AUSTERLITZ–Town Supervisor Robert Lagonia and Town Clerk Susan Haag run a tight ship at town meetings along with Deputy Town Supervisor Greg Vogler, and board members Christopher […]

FFA Winter Weekend

By Morgan Lounsbury, Grade 9 For Capital Region Independent Media During the January long weekend, Greenville took 25 FFA members to Camp Oswegatchie for their annual Winter Weekend. This is […]

RCS facility dogs pass Canine Good Citizen test

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — What a good dog! Make that “dogs.” The RCS school district’s three facility dogs last week passed their Canine Good Citizen […]

Girls’ basketball wins one, drops two

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — In the past week the RCS girls’ basketball team picked up one victory and dropped two games. The win was a […]

Addiction Coalition looks at ways to be more visible

By Jeanette Wolfberg For Capital Region Independent Media The Columbia Greene Addiction Coalition (CGAC) is working with organizations and other stakeholders to support individuals and communities impacted by substance abuse, […]

Darrow School raises $5.7 M to stay open

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–It was brought out at the January New Lebanon Town Board meeting that the Darrow School was in financial trouble and may well close at the […]

Plastic soup: Is mixing water and plastic a good idea?

Part 4 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–Those of a certain age will remember that in the movie “The Graduate,” Benjamin received the advice of an elder that the future was, […]

Longtime state senator retiring

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Longtime state Sen. Neil Breslin, D-46, announced his retirement last week after more than 25 years of service. The 46th state […]

Teams are not yet merging at HCSD and CCSD

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–High schools have been merging sports teams across districts, while for younger grades, the head of Columbia County’s Youth Bureau recommends reviving Pop Warner football. Combining teams […]

Horses of Unbridled: Saving Ijada: A story of compassion and responsibility

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the sprawling landscapes of Texas, where the line between life and death for a horse can be as thin as a […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed.

Donnelly seeks to revive Conservation Advisory Council

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — New Town Supervisor Stephen Donnelly proposed reviving the Coeymans Conservation Advisory Council, which was disbanded when former supervisor George McHugh took […]

GOOD NEWS!: Ortiz is 5th in state in weight class among female wrestlers

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The statewide all-girls wrestling invitational may only be in its second year, but RCS senior Alivia Ortiz has already made her […]

Local students named to fall dean’s list at HVCC

TROY — Local students named to the fall 2023 dean’s list at Hudson Valley Community College include: The dean’s list recognizes those full-time students and part-time students registered for at […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Wolf Moon

By NANCY JANE KERN AUSTERLITZ WAS VERY COLD as I watched strong winds blowing powdery snow across the field. Many mini snow tornadoes whirled and twisted in a frenzied dance […]

Suspect found with Quick Mart burglary loot

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Columbia County Sheriff’s Deputy William Newton arrested Duane Thompson, 29, of Copake in connection with the burglary of the Quick Mart/Green Street Deli at 67 Green Street, […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Music, movement and memory

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Having the distinct advantage of being able to bring music and movement programs to this community has truly inspired my weekly playlists based […]

Social Security Matters: Will withdrawing from 401(k) affect my Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My full retirement age (FRA) is 66 and 8 months, which I’ll reach in September 2024. I’m still working three […]

Living on Purpose: What does standing for God mean to you?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Many of us want to improve our lot in life. But simply wishing that our lives would change for the better […]

Soft Paws: Rescuing Donny: A tale of hope

By Aaron Clause For Capital Region Independent Media In the heart of a neglectful situation, one resilient soul stood strong – Donny the donkey. Recently rescued with the assistance of […]

Positively Speaking: Remember when you were young

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Remember when you were young? Anything and everything was possible. You were innocent, you had faith, you were able to believe in […]

Whittling Away: Signs

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media As I slide down the slippery slope of “seniordumb,” I have noticed that as my physical activity level gradually decreases, my powers […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 25, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 25, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

‘The Horses of Unbridled’ exhibition gallops into Five Furlongs Tavern

EAST DURHAM – Unbridled Sanctuary announced its highly anticipated fine art photography exhibition, “The Horses of Unbridled,” debuting at Five Furlongs Tavern in East Durham. The exhibition will run from […]

Indians wrestlers are Colonial Council champions

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians wrestlers are now the Colonial Council champions for this season. The team clinched the championship after defeating Ichabod Crane […]

Horses of Unbridled: Second chance sisters: The journey of Lucky and B’s Wild Rush

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the serene embrace of dawn at Unbridled Sanctuary, a day of profound reflection unfolds. It’s Jan. 15, 2024, a day etched […]

College & Military Corner

Ryan Skinner, of Cairo and assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company of the New York Army National Guard, received a promotion to the rank of 1st lieutenant. Payton Benjamin [...]

Local writer releases Kindle book series

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Roger Wilber of the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society may be known locally for his historical research and restoration know-how, but he […]

HHA waits for feedback from the state on Bliss plan

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) and Mountco Construction and Development Corporation have sent a concept paper to the NY State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR) […]

CMH looks to towns for donations

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—Columbia Memorial Health’s Copake Rapid Care Center at 283 Mountain View Road remains closed and is still seeking public monetary support to get the center up and […]

Water: Of PFAS, PFOS, PFOA and more

Part 3 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–It is a word salad: PFOA, PFOS, “Gen X chemicals,” persistent, bioaccumulative, forever chemicals, emerging contaminants, regrettable substitutions. These are some of the terms […]

Local students named to fall dean’s list at HVCC

TROY — The following local students were named to the fall 2023 dean’s list at Hudson Valley Community College:

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Police: Man robbed at gunpoint after responding to dating app

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS —  A man claimed he was robbed at gunpoint after responding to a dating app. Coeymans Police received a report Jan. 24 […]

Board member wanted to be armed at meetings

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON–The Town Board meetings usually begin with the first of two public comment sessions, and at the January meeting, there were a lot of comments made. […]

LIBRARY TALK: Fire Cider? It’s the perfect (?) post holiday herbal pick-you up

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY WINTER, A SEASON ASSOCIATED with respiratory ailments, will soon be here. For those interested in alternative remedies from over the counter medications, the Hudson Area Library […]

Can you meet the 2024 Fire Tower Challenge?

The 2024 Catskills Fire Tower Challenge has begun. All you need to do is visit the six DEC fire towers located in the Catskill Park, and email the log or […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A winter pageant

By NANCY JANE KERN DURING THE FIRST SNOWSTORM of our new year, the eagles were hiding and only crows and ravens briefly came to feed on the deer carcass in […]

Power line construction begins locally for Canada-to-NYC project

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Construction of more than 20 miles of cables in the local area for the Champlain Hudson Power Express Project is getting […]

Wrestlers take 1st, 2nd place in weight classes at tourney

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS wrestlers Kaden Potter and Jayden Acomb took first and second place in their respective weight classes at the Schenectady Wrestling […]

District mulls bringing football to Greenville

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The Greenville school district is considering adding football to the Athletic Department’s offerings. The district has never had a football team […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: Sacred idleness 

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media I believe we, who are among the “busy bees” on a daily basis, do long for those quieter days, in truth. I […]

Positively Speaking: Animal heroes

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Early one bright morning, Ludavine, a spirited bloodhound, was let out into the expansive yard for her daily exploration. The property, a […]

Whittling Away: School days

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I found myself with a few spare moments the other day. Telly was dozing on the living room rug, the bird feeders […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 18, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Miss Louise Bodden gave a very interesting talk on the life and works of Walter Scott, and Mrs. Harry […]

Long-time police sergeant dies while on duty

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police Department Senior Sergeant Christopher Filli died after suffering a medical emergency while on duty Friday, January 12. He was 50 years old. In a January […]

New Lebanon spars over town job roster

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON – When the new town board gathered on January 2 for their yearly organizational meeting, the typical appointments and yearly resolutions took backstage to a […]

‘The Horses of Unbridled’ exhibition gallops into Five Furlongs Tavern

EAST DURHAM – Unbridled Sanctuary announced its highly anticipated fine art photography exhibition, “The Horses of Unbridled,” debuting at Five Furlongs Tavern in East Durham. The exhibition will run from […]

Obituary: Deborah Griffith

RAVENA – Deborah “Debbie” Griffith passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. Debbie was born on March 2, 1969, in Albany, to Nancy Griffith and the late Robert Griffith.  […]

Addiction Coalition looks at ways to be more visible

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Columbia Greene Addiction Coalition (CGAC) is working with organizations and other stakeholders to support individuals and communities impacted by substance abuse, CGAC’s Executive Director […]

Canaan launches 2024 with new appointments

By PETER FLIERL CANAAN – Supervisor Brenda Adams and the Canaan Town Board launched 2024 with a perfunctory moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance followed by approval of […]

Greene County man charged with attempted murder

By Doug LaRocque Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — A 32-year-old woman is in stable condition at Albany Medical Center at press time after being shot in the pelvis Sunday […]

Panel looks at King’s 6 Principles

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY HUDSON–Columbia County observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day with two events held at Hudson venues, Shiloh Baptist Church and the Lifeforms Arts Center, January 14 and […]

Board revisits hate speech issue

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—The Town Board wrapped up the old year by reiterating its position against “any expression of hate, intolerance, prejudice, or discrimination toward any individual or group. This […]

EDITORIAL: How close is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.?

By PARRY TEASDALE APRIL 15, 1967, THE SKY was gray outside. I was getting ready to leave. My father came into the kitchen. He was frowning. He said the National […]

County Board finishes up business for 2023

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – Outgoing Columbia County supervisors and employees received thanks for their service at the county Board of Supervisors full board year end meeting December 27, 2023. […]

Senior Night for RCS Wrestling

EDITOR’S NOTE: The wrestling team is bidding farewell to 12 seniors this year. Here are images of all the graduating wrestlers. Congratulations to all! Special thanks to photographer Gina Pelletier […]

Horses of Unbridled: Echoes of equine elegance: A visual odyssey at Five Furlongs

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the quaint Greene County town of East Durham, a fine art photography exhibit is unfolding that speaks volumes about the majestic […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

DEC urges anglers to be safe this winter

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos reminded anglers to be safe when venturing onto the ice this season, especially given recent variations in weather conditions. Outdoor […]

THE CATSKILL GEOLOGISTS: A Devonian Sea Floor

By ROBERT and JOHANNA TITUS We know, we know, we have heard you. You hate shopping at the malls, and you refuse to shop online. The two of us are […]

Hudson students collaborate on two murals with Joe Pimentel

HUDSON — The Hudson City School District has announced the completion of two mural projects, one at Hudson Junior High School and the other at Hudson Senior High School. Led […]

Humane Society lends a hand with animal cruelty case

By DIANE VALDEN CLAVERACK—The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA aided State Police with the arrest and seizure of three equines. On December 4, one donkey, one horse and one mini horse were […]

Town officials spar over Code Red

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The new Coeymans Town Council held its first regular meeting Jan. 11 and sparred over the Code Red system and bringing […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: History and the news

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media If you follow this column, you know I look for information that tells me more about the past in Oak Hill […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: Honoring the agreement we made

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media We love our fur babies with a fury that our own kids wished we had for them. My kids have even wondered, […]

Social Security Matters: If my wife claims now, will it hurt my Social Security amount?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am 69 years old and my wife turned 70 early last year. I am still working full-time. My wife […]

Positively Speaking: Leadership

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Lately, I have been trying to read more. I bought a book I have been told to read many times, but I […]

Living on Purpose: Does the sin we commit in secret only hurt us?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media The sin of Achan found in Joshua 6:17-19 is a powerful example of how one person committing evil in private can […]

Whittling Away: Ice skating

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Last weekend, during a quiet time, I found myself with a few minutes to enjoy my favorite form of exercise. It involves […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 11, 1924 – F. E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 11, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Coeymans Hollow loses a local hero

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Firefighters from fire companies across the area bid a final farewell to a local hero on Sunday, Past Assistant Chief […]

Outdoor sports enthusiasts warned of winter weather conditions

Unpredictable winter weather and recent storms in backcountry areas are creating variable conditions, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced last week. Visitors should be […]

Indians finish 9th in Jamie Mormile Tournament

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Indians’ wrestling team took ninth place in the annual Jamie Mormile Invitational Tournament on their home mat. Senior Kaden […]

One student’s opinion: Studying struggles

By Aurora Anderson, 11th Grade For Capital Region Independent Media Editor’s Note: The Greenville Pioneer is pleased to present news articles written by Greenville High School students in teacher Chris […]

Village’s lead, copper water pipe report continues

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The village is continuing to compile data on lead water services lines running from the village’s water supply into local homes. […]

Murell gives State of the County at first meeting in 2024

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Columbia County Board of Supervisors appointed officials for the year, Chairman Matt Murell (Stockport) reported the State of the County, and local officials – […]

Kinderhook hopes new funds lead to better water

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE–The Kinderhook Town Board is moving forward with the Water Infrastructure Improvement Project after awarding the contract for the work at the board’s December meeting. According to […]

Water: getting the lead out; benefits outweigh costs 35:1

Part 2 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–For a long time, scientists have known that there is no safe level of lead that humans can ingest. The use of lead in […]

Long-time police sergeant dies while on duty

HUDSON—The Hudson Police Department issued the following press release, today, January 13: It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that the City of Hudson Police Department announces the untimely […]

Public hearings on solar project called off indefinitely

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The in-person and virtual public hearings that were slated to take place this week on Hecate Energy’s contentious mega solar project called Shepherd’s Run, have been postponed […]

New Kinderhook justice sworn in

David Kolb was sworn in as the Town of Kinderhook’s new Town Justice on January 1 at the Martin H. Glynn Municipal Building in Valatie. Pictured are Justice Kolb (l) [...]

THE CATSKILL GEOLOGISTS: Fossil fish displayed on Warren Street

By ROBERT and JOHANNA TITUS IT’S JUST PAST THE PEAK OF GIFT BUYING and time for doing some fact finding about all that shopping. A very good place for you […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

LOCAL EVENTS: Screenwriter’s daughter talks about “High Noon” at screening

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE CRANDELL THEATRE SPONSORED a showing of “High Noon,” the 1952 multi-Oscar nominated western, on December 9. The screenplay for the movie, starring Gary Cooper as […]

MY VIEW: Weight loss journey

By Warren Dews Jr. Capital Region Independent Media Editor’s Note: We are pleased to bring our readers a series about the weight loss journey of Warren Dews Jr. He is […]

Canine influenza vaccine clinics in January, February

HUDSON — The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA will be hosting two canine influenza vaccine clinics in January and February. To properly vaccinate dogs against canine influenza, dogs require two vaccinations two […]

Social Security Matters: Will my friend’s fiancée be entitled to a survivor benefit?

By Russell Gloor For Capital  Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I have a very good friend who has cancer and will begin chemotherapy this week. He is 71 years old […]

Living on Purpose: Loving God is knowing His will and doing it

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Most of us have heard the 1969 song, “More Today Than Yesterday” by the band Spiral Staircase. The chorus says, “I […]

Positively Speaking: A comedy of errors

By Toby Moore Capital Region Independent Media Have you ever had one of those days where life seems to be plotting a comedy at your expense? Each step you take […]

Whittling Away: Resolutions

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s that time of the year again, resolution time. A whole brand-new year ahead of us and we get stuck with homework!  […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 4, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 4, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Medical issue thought to be crash cause

By DIANE VALDEN CLAVERACK—An Orange County man was killed in a two-vehicle accident on Route 66 near the Fish and Game Road intersection, December 29 at 10:05 a.m. Columbia 911 […]

CCPR talks fentanyl at New Leb Wellness

By PETER FLIERL NEW LEBANON – Frank Marshall, CASAC-2, represented Columbia County Pathways to Recovery at the First Annual Health & Wellness Fair held at the Fire House in New […]

Superintendent’s Message: Delays and snow days

By Michael Bennett For Capital Region Independent Media With winter weather on its way, I thought it would be advantageous to explain how delay and cancellation decisions are made here […]

RCS community selects new Ravens logo

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district has chosen a new name and mascot, and now they’ve got a new logo, too. And it […]

Artists celebrate Goldstein Gallery, closing in January

By DAVID LEE CHATHAM – Joyce Goldstein was the proprietor of the Goldstein Gallery in the Village of Chatham since 2005. Her death on September 23 leaves an empty space […]

RCS Artist of the Month

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Juliana Fahey was named Artist of the Month at RCS High School for November. Artist of the Month is an RCS High School program that acknowledges an art […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Aging, and not good at it

By NANCY JANE KERN ONE OF MY BIRD-LOVING FRIENDS understands things to help us as we age and sent me a wonderful present via Amazon: a heated mattress pad. This […]

Water, water everywhere, but is it safe to drink?

Introduction to a series By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT – Leonardo da Vinci knew; he said, “Water is the driving force of all nature.” Likewise, in 2002 the United Nations […]

County passes 2024 budget with 1.4% increase

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Columbia County Board of Supervisors adopted the county’s budget for 2024 at its full board meeting December 13. The budget appropriates $172.4 million to […]

60 acres gone and maybe Hecate too

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—In a significant turn of events, 60 acres of farmland that was supposed to be part of Hecate Energy’s controversial Shepherd’s Run Solar project has been sold […]

New town officials take oaths of office

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council saw a major political shift on New Year’s Day when three new officials took their oaths of office. […]

Heavy snow may be on the way

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Winter has been relatively mild so far, but that is expected to change this weekend. A winter storm watch is in […]

Horses of Unbridled: A forever pasture: The Unbridled journey of Hoss & Little Joe

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the lush expanse of a nearby farm homestead, Hoss and Little Joe, two resilient Haflingers, graze contentedly in a place they […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – December 28, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – December 26, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Bensen sworn in as new town supervisor

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Former town councilman John Bensen was sworn in as Greenville’s new town supervisor at the annual reorganizational meeting Tuesday. Bensen was […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: Juggling

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Juggling was originally a circus act first popularized in the courts of royalty in 1781 B.C., as is evidenced by a series […]

Social Security Matters: Are spousal benefits always a factor?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Both my wife and I have worked our entire lives. When we retire, will we both be entitled to full […]

Living on Purpose: God is not only watching, He intervenes

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Late one stormy London night in 1763, a man filled with despair was determined to end his life. He hired a […]

Positively Speaking: Better late than never

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We all possess many talents and gifts that vary from one person to another. While some gifts blossom early and visibly, others […]

Whittling Away: Creative resolutions

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Already a new year is here, seems like just yesterday we were saying goodbye to 2022.  I remember as a small child […]

Obituary: Dorothy S. Wood

DURHAM – Dorothy S. Wood, 74, died suddenly Christmas morning, Monday, Dec. 25, 2023. Dot was born on April 5, 1949, in Hamilton Field, California, to MSgt. Oliver J. Sarnes, […]

Varsity girls, JV boys compete in RCS wrestling tournament

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians hosted a tournament prior to the winter break for the varsity girls wrestling team and junior varsity boys. The […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Hudson Hall and Operation Unite celebrate Kwanzaa

By DAVID LEE HUDSON – On Saturday, December 16 there was a Kwanzaa Umoja Community Celebration in Hudson, a co-production of Hudson Hall and Operation Unite, NY. Umoja is a […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A Half Christmas Bird Count

By NANCY JANE KERN DECEMBER 16, 2023, BEGAN the 124th National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count (CBC) season which continues through January 5, 2024. I called it a half CBC […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 1

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Greenville Pioneer is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 1

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Columbia Paper is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 1

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Ravena News-Herald is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 2

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Ravena News-Herald is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 2

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Columbia Paper is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 2

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Greenville Pioneer is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 3

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Columbia Paper is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 3

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Greenville Pioneer is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 3

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Ravena News-Herald is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

EDITORIAL: A few more words about Paul Czajka

By PARRY TEASDALE PAUL CZAJKA, who served this county as district attorney and county judge for many years, was honored by colleagues and friends last week. (See Diane Valden’s story […]

Holidays celebrated in music at New Lebanon CSD

The New Lebanon senior band and the grades 7-12 mixed choir perform at the school's annual Winter Concert the evening of December 12. Valene Synakowski (pictured center) leads the choir [...]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 4

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Columbia Paper is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 4

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Greenville Pioneer is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 4

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Ravena News-Herald is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

DEC taking over as Carver project lead agency

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The state Department of Environmental Conservation is now the lead agency on the review process for the offshore wind power project […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 5

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Greenville Pioneer is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 5

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Columbia Paper is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 5

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Ravena News-Herald is counting down the top 5 local stories of 2023. We looked at the top stories of the year, those that drew the highest number […]

Library exhibit pairs art and nature

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — An exhibit on display at the RCS Community Library pairs two unexpected elements — art and nature. Workshops held at the […]

Obituary: August David Guilzon

August David “Dave” Guilzon passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 12, at his residence. He was 81 years old. He was born in Albany, NY, on Aug. 18, 1942, to the […]

One hurt when tractor trailer rolls, blocks both eastbound lanes

By DIANE VALDEN CANAAN—Columbia County 911 dispatched Canaan and Red Rock firefighters along with Chatham Rescue to a tractor trailer rollover accident with injuries at milepost 21.4 of the eastbound […]

Social Security Matters: I’m 65 and working: Can I collect ex-spouse benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I turned 65 earlier this year and I still work full-time. I was divorced four years ago after 38 years […]

Living on Purpose: Is it true we can live in peace?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Have you considered that worry and anxiety is an issue we can control? Many within the medical world agree that stress […]

Positively Speaking: Soaring beyond the limits of legacy

By Toby Moore Capital Region Independent Media “Birds born in a cage think flying is an illness.” This metaphor encapsulates how our beginnings — our families, our environments — can […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – December 14, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – December 12, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Town’s appeal of Long Energy court decision continues

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town has filed an appeal of the state Supreme Court decision essentially ordering the planning/zoning board of appeals to approve […]

New Lebanon self storage debate continues into the New Year

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON – The December 12 edition of the New Lebanon Town Board monthly meeting started about 90 minutes late, in deference to the Jr/Sr high school’s […]

Short term rentals: To regulate or not? And, if so, how?

By DEBORAH E LANS Part 2 GHENT – As Chris Brown, the Housing Development coordinator for the county, puts it: regulating short term rentals is probably necessary to address their […]

Exhibit shines light on ‘The Church That Prayer Built’

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A new exhibit was unveiled celebrating the history of Riverview Missionary Baptist Church. The Ravena Coeymans Historical Society held its annual […]

Copake voices ‘Thanks’ many times over

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Town Supervisor Jeanne Mettler presided over her last regular monthly Town Board meeting, December 14. At the end of the year, she will step down from the […]

Press Release: Offshore wind facilities at Ports of Albany, Coeymans to create jobs, generate billions in economic impact

ALBANY — Proposed offshore wind manufacturing facilities at the Capital Region’s major marine ports will bring an influx of jobs by the thousands while adding billions to the local economy, […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Woodpile

By NANCY JANE KERN IT SEEMED LIKE A HUGE PART of our lives revolved around the woodpile. As a neighbor once remarked, he never knew anyone who worked harder than […]

Ancram Opera House becomes Ancram Center for the Arts

ANCRAM – Reflecting its growth as a regional creative hub serving the Hudson Valley, Berkshires and Litchfield County, Ancram Opera House is taking on the new name of Ancram Center […]

Hudson celebrates Hanukkah and meets new Rabbi

By DAVID LEE HUDSON–The fourth candle of a tall menorah was lit on December 10 at 7th Street Park in Hudson by Rabbi Mendel Kremer (see front page). It was […]

Fire Company begins mascot search with Chatham Media Arts Class

SPENCERTOWN – The Spencertown Volunteer Fire Company (SFC) has announced that their Recruiting and Retention Committee (RRC) is working with Chatham High School’s Media Arts Class to develop a mascot. […]

Reward offered for man missing since summer

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—A $2,500 cash reward is offered for a man who has been missing since Thursday, July 6. The latest bulletin on Robert J. Coons, 63, comes in […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: The devious Christmas gremlins

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media You know who they are. You also know what I’m about to finally reveal openly about these incredibly devious little critters who […]

Climate Change forum reaches across county borders

By DOUG LA ROCQUE GREENPORT – Climate change is in the news almost daily now in one form or another. From the federal government on down to local municipalities, it […]

Short term rentals – good, bad or all of the above?

By DEBORAH E. LANS Part 1 GHENT – To generate heat on a cold night this winter, start a conversation about short term rentals (STRs). Most everyone has an opinion […]

Crowd spills out into street for Carver hearing

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A public hearing for a proposed Carver Companies project drew so many people that the crowd spilled out into the street. […]

Lunch with Santa brings out a crowd

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — With Christmas just a couple of weeks away, Santa Claus was able to take time out from his busy schedule […]

Officials and friends laud DA Czajka for his long service

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—It was a ceremony befitting a man who has spent the past four decades serving the people of Columbia County. Former public defender, former county judge and […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Things we take for granted

By NANCY JANE KERN THIS PAST SUMMER there were frequent power outages. No worry, it was warm, and the automatic generator was there. One night, the lights went out, several […]

President Van Buren honored on his 241st birthday

By DAVID LEE KINDERHOOK – The annual observation of the birthday of the 8th President of the United States Martin Van Buren was conducted on Tuesday morning, December 5 in […]

Greenville HS addressing mental health challenges

By Maeve Lampman, 12th Grade For Capital Region Independent Media Editor’s Note: The Greenville Pioneer is pleased to present news articles written by Greenville High School students enrolled in teacher […]

Kids enjoy sweet treats with Santa

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — If there’s one thing we know Santa likes — other than kids and elves, of course — it’s cookies. On Saturday, […]

RCS Athletic Hall of Fame inducts 16 in Class of 2023

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Sixteen former RCS athletes and coaches were inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame on Saturday. The Athletic Hall of […]

MUSIC REVIEW: Roots & Shoots concerts series persents “Blues Women of the Capital Region II”

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY IT WAS HOT BLUES on a chilly autumn night at the Spencertown Academy on Saturday, November 25. In partnership with the Capital Region Blues Network (CRBN), […]

Fatal accident claims Stockport woman

By DIANE VALDEN KINDERHOOK—A Stockport woman was killed in a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 9H and County Route 25, December 4. Sheriff’s Office Investigator Thomas Merante […]

EDITORIAL: Why does a newspaper look like that?

By PARRY TEASDALE KELLY YOUNG, ANOTHER of our long-term colleagues at The Columbia Paper, has decided to go her own way. Anyone who has seen this newspaper has probably seen […]

Seven votes clinch Kinderhook board seat for Dems

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—After the County Board of Elections completed a manual recount of the ballots for the Kinderhook Town Board, it was confirmed that Sally Naramore was the winner […]

GOOD NEWS!: Motorcycle clubs join forces to brighten Christmas

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — When you think of the holidays, motorcycles may not be at the top of the list of images that pop into […]

RCS wrestlers compete against Salem-Cambridge

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians headed to Salem-Cambridge for a meet on Friday. Salem-Cambridge came out on top 51-21, but several Indians had victories. […]

Girls’ hoops comes up short against LaSalle

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians’ girls basketball team came up short against the LaSalle Cadets in their second loss of the season. The Indians […]

Round 3: The Woods project in Philmont

By DEBORAH E. LANS PHILMONT – This paper has followed the “progress” of the Woods housing proposal in Philmont since 2022 (stories ran on November 17, 2022 and April 27, […]

Historical Society’s Holiday Open House set for Sunday

RAVENA — The Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will hold a holiday Open House on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 1-3:30 p.m. in its museum, located in the rear entrance of the Ravena […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

New Lebanon gets $500K park grant

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – As most municipalities know, there is grant money to be had from the federal and state governments as well as a few private […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Dottie Rip and the ‘Woody’

By NANCY JANE KERN THIS WEEKEND MY MIND WANDERED back to a warm 1950s youthful summer and the neighbor’s farm I often bicycled to with my friend Barb. It was […]

Hudson alumni making a difference

HUDSON – Hudson Senior High School Class of 2023 graduate Patrick Tompkins has established a positive impact at Olana State Historic Site since being employed by the New York State […]

Town Line Motorsports to host Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus

Town Line Motorsports on Route 32 will host Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 1-3:30 p.m. In addition to meeting with the Jolly Ol’ Elf […]

Scam prevention tips offered as holidays approach

ALBANY—The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection announces tips to help New Yorkers navigate the holiday shopping season. This week’s tips are meant to empower New Yorkers […]

Holiday houses light up in Hudson

By DAVID LEE HUDSON – As the holiday season is upon us, a themed village has magically appeared in the Seventh Street Park in Hudson consisting of eight small houses […]

Plans for new HHA buildings go to the state next

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) and Mountco Construction and Development Corporation are working on a concept paper outlining their plans for redeveloping land in Hudson, […]

RCS district to begin budget process

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district is beginning the annual budgeting process for the 2024-25 school year. School Business Administrator Jesse Boehme outlined […]

Social Security Matters: Planning to claim at 62: What do we need to know?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: My wife (born May 1962) and I (born April 1963) are retired and will soon be looking to start collecting […]

Living on Purpose: We cannot share what we do not have

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Recently, I spoke about a wonderful man who is a member of our church, and if you recall he just turned […]

Grateful Paws: A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors

By Guest Columnist Aaron Clause For Capital Region Independent Media ‘Tis the season of joy, gratitude and giving back. At the Columbia-Greene Humane Society facility, our hearts are overflowing with […]

Positively Speaking: The law of averages

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media For many of us, a never-ending stream of worries dominates our thoughts. These persistent fears disturb our peace of mind and impact […]

Whittling Away: Too young to be old

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s almost here! I still get excited about Christmas, I wonder if this will be one of the years that I hear […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – November 30, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – November 28, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Lithium-ion battery ignites motorcycle

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A motorcycle powered by a lithium-ion battery caught on fire in the village Monday, according to the Ravena Fire Department. It […]

Obituary: Richard E. Dedie

GREENVILLE – Richard E. Dedie, 72, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023. Richard was born in Rockville Centre on July 7, 1951, a son of the late Milton […]

Rehab of old field brings new life to West Ghent Recreation Complex

GHENT – Columbia County Reds 14U Girls Fastpitch Softball undertook a major rehabilitation and transformation to the forgotten West Ghent ball field. The abandoned field was overgrown, had rotted benches, […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Neil Kellegher’s memories of East Durham

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media Every time I write or talk as the Durham historian, I invite others to share their stories. For me, and I […]

Wrestlers hit the mat in two tournaments

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It was a busy weekend for RCS wrestlers. Indians wrestlers competed in two tournaments this weekend — the Bethlehem Round Robin and the LaSalle Ladies Round Robin. RCS […]

Superintendent’s Message: Real world experiences in the classroom

By Michael Bennett For Capital Region Independent Media One of the aspects of our school district that I truly enjoy is the opportunity for students to obtain real world experiences […]

Parade draws hundreds: ‘This is what small-town living is all about’

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The streets were lined Saturday night with hundreds of spectators looking to usher in the holiday season, Ravena-style. The annual Christmas […]

What’s new in the news?

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT – In September a group of newspaper publishers from around the country, including Mark Vinciguerra, president and owner of Capital Region Independent Media, the owner […]

Horses of Unbridled: Lisa Hunt’s unwavering dedication to rescued horses

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Amid the peace and tranquility of Unbridled Sanctuary, nestled on the southern border of Albany County in the shadow of the Helderberg […]

He wants a farm, or is it housing?

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—For years Sal Cascino has proclaimed he is a farmer. He even convinced state Department of Agriculture and Markets officials that he is running an agricultural operation […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

THROUGH THE WOODS: We gather together

By NANCY JANE KERN THANKSGIVING DAY AND CHRISTMAS were the two days of the year when we all got together and shared a 1950s special meal. Everything was timed around […]

No crime committed, just misunderstanding

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police thought they had a possible attempted child kidnapping on their hands, but further investigation determined it was all a misunderstanding. Hudson Police Department (HPD) received […]

Burch sets world record in powerlifting

By DAVID LEE BOSTON CORNERS – Mike Burch of Boston Corners has been testing his strength by lifting weights since he was six years old. That was back in 1956. […]

Dog park plagued by noncompliance

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The dog park at Mosher Park continues to have problems with residents not adhering to the rules that have been put […]

Art contest is final mascot step

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The school district’s switch from the Indians to the Ravens is beginning its final phase. The district’s team name and mascot […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Being the wife of a hunter

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media It’s not just the peace and quiet that I look forward to at home while my “hunter-gatherer” is engaged in early scouting […]

Social Security Matters: About the fairness of ‘WEP’ and ‘GPO’

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I was married to my ex-husband for 30 years. For 14 of those years, I was an unemployed mom and […]

Living on Purpose: It’s never too late to learn something new

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Growing older is not an excuse to stop advancing in our faith and our prayers. Confess that you have energy and […]

Positively Speaking: We become what we think about

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Speaker and author Earl Nightingale said, “You become what you think about.” I’ve struggled with this concept for many years. Over and […]

Whittling Away: Christmas Past

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s now the heart of the holiday season and the three spirits written about so well by Charles Dickens make their yearly […]

Arts group offers another way to shop local

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — If you are looking for another way to shop local this holiday season, check out the artists’ show on display at […]

Obituary: Joseph S. Farinelli

HUDSON FALLS – Joseph S. Farinelli, 81, went into the arms of the Lord on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Elderwood in Ticonderoga, after a battle with dementia. Born on […]

13 years of serving struggling residents with dignity

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — For the past 13 years, Helping Harvest has helped provide struggling families and individuals in the area with both food and […]

Rangers rescue injured hiker

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ROUND TOP — Forest rangers came to the aid of an injured hiker in Round Top on Friday. Rangers responded Nov. 24 at […]

Santa, Mrs. Claus pay early visit to Greenville

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Santa and Mrs. Claus paid an early visit to Greenville on the day after Thanksgiving. The Jolly Ol’ Elf arrived in […]

Town purchases church building for $450K

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town has purchased the Grace United Methodist Church building for $450,000 for use as a new town hall. The purchase […]

INDIGENOUS VOICES: Academy talk reminds us who was here before we came

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE SPENCERTOWN ACADEMY of Arts sponsored the lecture “Still Here: A Survival Story of Indigenous People,” on Sunday, November 5. The speaker, Heather Bruegl, is an […]

New Lebanon splash pad put on hold

By DOUG LAROCQUE NEW LEBANON – Earlier this year the New Lebanon Town Board voted to go ahead with an engineering study for the construction of a splash pad at […]

The state of rural life: two new studies

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT – As a local tourism website says: “Columbia County offers unsurpassed rural beauty, a rich cultural scene and active recreational opportunities.” Its residents would add […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Obituary: Jim Carroll

Jim “Red” Carroll was laid to rest on Oct. 29, 2023, after a long battle with heart disease. Jim was born in Brooklyn on Oct. 6, 1950, to Jim and […]

GOOD NEWS!: Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family brightens Thanksgiving

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — No one wants to sit down at an empty table on Thanksgiving, but for some families, that is a very real […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A Thanksgiving for wildlife

By NANCY JANE KERN MAKING TRIPS AROUND THE COUNTY gives us a rough survey of food sources for birds and animals, and so far, things look pretty good this year. […]

Art Omi: Sculptures, architecture, contemporary art and … t-shirts

By Z ASSI LOCATED IN GHENT, Art Omi is a local (and free) art experience. Indoor exhibits are held in the Newmark Gallery, located in the Benenson Center. The most […]

County releases final, official election results

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The results for the Nov. 7 town and county elections have been finalized by the Albany County Board of Elections. The […]

GOOD NEWS!: Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family makes holidays a bit brighter

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — No one wants to sit down at an empty table on Thanksgiving, but for some families, that is a very real […]

Senior Projects thanks donors for new vehicles

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Senior Projects of Ravena held a ceremony last Thursday to officially thank Holcim and other corporate donors who helped raise the […]

Horse of Unbridled: The Unbridled philosophy of inclusive love

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Nestled in Westerlo, marked by GPS coordinates pointing to Norton Hill, and carrying a mailing address in Greenville, Unbridled Sanctuary defies conventional […]

One dead as two vehicles crash, erupt in flames

By DIANE VALDEN GREENPORT—State Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash which occurred on State Route 23 west of Ponderosa Drive, November 13 at 5:42 p.m. The two vehicles […]

Social Security Matters: Social Security disability vs. spouse benefits vs. survivor benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I retired from working in June but will not sign up for Social Security until age 70. To do that, […]

Positively Speaking: Power of the subconscious

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media In 1889, the French psychologist Pierre Janet coined the term “subconscious mind.” Janet argued that underneath the layers of critical thought functions […]

Living on Purpose: Take a quiet walk and talk to God today

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Jesus Christ loves you, and he desires to spend quiet time with you. Our heavenly Father beckons you to draw near […]

Whittling Away: Thanksgiving

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Thanksgiving is high on the list of my favorite holidays. It comes in just after Christmas and way above Groundhog Day.  What […]

County hears from the public about Youth Clubhouse

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The fate of the Hudson Youth Clubhouse dominated the Columbia County Board of Supervisors meeting November 8, where the supervisors also authorized a winter night […]

The Third Act: Climate group finds supporters upstate

Part 2 By DEBORAH E. LANS CHATHAM – Three years ago, author-activist Bill McKibben established The Third Act as an organization to leverage the time, skills and financial wherewithal of […]

Protecting Democracy Through Local Journalism

Panel Discussion, 11-15-2023 On Wednesday, November 15th, 2023, the New York Press Association held a panel discussion featuring industry leaders in journalism. These local experts were brought together to discuss […]

Is this school’s day about to end?

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The old Roeliff Jansen School building has deteriorated to the point of no return and steps to condemn the place are underway. For the past 24 years, […]

EDITORIAL: Where’d the editorial go?

By PARRY TEASDALE SORRY FOR THE LONG DROUGHT of editorials. At least a couple of people have asked about them; they wanted to know whether the new owners had muzzled […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

THROUGH THE WOODS: A man looks out at his world

By NANCY JANE KERN SCANNING THE SHELVES for something to read produced the 1942 “The Lives Around Us” by naturalist Alan Devoe. In the prologue to the book, he finds […]

Updated elections results as of Monday

GHENT – Unofficial results for the 2023 General Election were updated by the Columbia County Board of Elections, as of 4:45 p.m. on November 13. State Supreme Court Justice 3rd […]

Democrats sweep town council races in close contests

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Republican Town Supervisor George McHugh has been defeated by Democratic challenger Stephen Donnelly in the race for supervisor. There will be […]

Prestipino leaves Hudson after 11 busy years

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – “It has been a privilege to work with so many talented administrators, teachers and staff members in the Hudson City School District (HCSD) over the […]

County discusses more plans for $2 million in Opioid Settlement Funds

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – Columbia County Human Services Director Dan Almasi presented four suggestions for using Opioid Settlement Funds at the Board of Supervisors Health and Human Services committee […]

HS students put their talents to the test

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Students at Greenville High School tuned up their voices and technical skills to create an on-air commercial promoting Greene County during […]

Ravena Fire recruiting young heroes

RAVENA — Are you a teenager interested in the fire service? The Ravena Hose Company will hold an open house to recruit junior firefighters and young people interested in the […]

Vote recount to determine supervisor’s race

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The race for town supervisor is so close the results have still not yet been determined six days after Election Day […]

Local agencies present case study at conference

SARATOGA SPRINGS—The Mental Health Association of Columbia Greene’s Child Advocacy Center presented a case study at the 2023 New York State Children’s Alliance Leadership Conference in Saratoga Springs, October 3. […]

End of an era as Revs. Booth retire from Riverview

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — It’s the end of an era in Coeymans as the Rev. Dr. Roxanne Jones Booth and the Rev. Antonio Booth are […]

HHA looking at “maximum build” for new sites

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) Board of Commissioners advised its development partner to stick to the proposal it had presented a month earlier rather than […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

The Third Act: older adults volunteering locally

By DEBORAH E. LANS Part 1 GHENT – Americans are living about 25 years longer now than 100 years ago, and well past conventional retirement age. How we spend those […]

Columbia County 2023 election results

GHENT – Unofficial results show Democrat Christopher Liberati-Conant (9,983 votes) defeated Republican Ryan M. Carty (9,274) in the race for county District Attorney. Mr. Carty currently serves as deputy chief […]

Roe Jan Alumi meet again

NORTH HILLSDALE—The annual meeting of the Roe Jan Alumni Association (the first in several years due to Covid-19) will be held Tuesday, November 14, 2 p.m. at the North Hillsdale […]

Bensen taking over town’s top spot

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE —Town Councilman John Bensen will be Greenville’s new town supervisor beginning Jan. 1. Bensen takes over the town’s top spot from longtime […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Pb

By NANCY JANE KERN Pb IS THE SYMBOL FOR LEAD and is a dense, toxic metal in the same group as mercury. John Wayne, a cowboy hero of my childhood […]

Woman charged with making terror threat against school

By DIANE VALDEN KINDERHOOK—Officials at the Ichabod Crane High School alerted School Resource Deputy Brian McSween that a threat was made against the school October 26 at 9:39 a.m., according […]

Columbia County updated election results

GHENT – Unofficial results for the 2023 General Election as of 11:15 p.m. on November 7: State Supreme Court Justice 3rd Judicial District Richard Rivera (Democratic) 8,620 Sherri J. Brooks-Morton […]

Election results too close to call

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — With the exception of Coeymans’ representative on the Albany County Legislature, town election results are too close to call on election […]

Local artists publishes graphic novel on Cassidy Hutchinson

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY FROM HER ROOTS IN HARRISBURG, PA, Barbara Slate, a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, made the “proverbial bus” trip to New York City in […]

Youth Clubhouse looks for new home

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – “A huge amount of youth find solace” at the Hudson Youth Clubhouse, said Tistrya Houghtling, supervisor of New Lebanon. The clubhouse has orders to vacate […]

Indians headed to championship game

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It was by far the closest game of the season Friday night, but the Indians found a way to win in […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

GOOD NEWS!: Community pulls together to support breast cancer survivors

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — There was a sea of pink making its way through the village when VFW Post 9594 hosted the annual walk in […]

State ok’s latest round in solar mega-site

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—After encountering bumps in the road earlier, Hecate Energy’s Shepherd’s Run mega-sized solar project is moving ahead despite opponents’ long-held objections. The most recent step forward in […]

Diamond Rattlers help clean up Boston Corner

By DAVID LEE ANCRAM – In the world of outlaw motorcycle clubs, the Diamond Rattlers make no secret of their 1% status and their affiliation with the Hell’s Angels of […]

Holiday Art Show & Sale

GREENVILLE — Sixteen local artists will have small works on display in November and December at the Greenville Public Library Art Gallery. The gallery is located in the downstairs community […]

Four on ballot for two town council seats

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media     COEYMANS — Four candidates will be on the ballot vying for two seats on the Coeymans Town Council when voters head to the […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: The mysterious relationships of sisters

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Having contemplated the direction I would take with this topic for several days now, it finally came to me that I just needed […]

Social Security Matters: My birthday is on the 1st of the month: When should I claim Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I will be 62 on Nov. 1, and I have chosen to take my benefits early. I know that my […]

Living on Purpose: We only have one chance to make it right

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media The other day I was speaking with a person I’ve known most of my life, and he asked me if I […]

Positively Speaking: Arguments

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media In my formative years, I often chose silence over confrontation, retreating rather than facing the storm. While there’s merit in sidestepping conflict, […]

Whittling Away: Financial savvy

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Watching the news over the past few weeks has me wondering if I followed the wrong career path during my working days.  […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 26, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 24, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Full slate of candidates in New Lebanon Town elections

ELECTION 2023 By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – All the elective offices in the town are before the voters this November 7 except that of the town supervisor. The […]

Obituary: Walter ‘Bud’ Wood

Walter “Bud” Wood passed away Saturday, Oct. 28, at his home with his wife at his side. He was 74.  Born in Catskill on Aug. 23, 1949, to the late […]

Chili cook-off offers tasty way to help seniors

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — From moose meat to venison to “boomer chili,” there was something for every culinary taste at the first annual chili cook-off […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Our old ‘Halloween House’

By NANCY JANE KERN A RAVEN CALLED from my roof today, causing me to think about house spirits. I spent 60 years of my life at my parent’s home and […]

Hudson man charged with weapons possession, menacing

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON–Hudson Police arrested Bernardo E. Centeno, 70, of Hudson on an active felony arrest warrant out of Hudson City Court, October 17. Mr. Centeno was arrested on […]

Kinderhook will elect one new town judge

ELECTION 2023 By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—Two town justice candidates are on the ballot for one open justice position this November. Ken Golden is running on the Democratic ballot line and […]

District: Free meals for all students beginning Nov. 1

GREENVILLE — The Greenville Central School District announced that beginning Wednesday, Nov. 1, free meals will be provided to all students. What does this mean?All students enrolled at Greenville Central […]

Magnolia Circle closed to traffic for spooky yet safe Halloween

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Always a popular destination for trick-or-treaters, Magnolia Circle will again be closed to non-residential traffic this year on Halloween. Each year, […]

Copake has plenty of room for new faces

ELECTION 2023 By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Even with no contested races on the local ballot, Copake voters will elect a new town supervisor and one new Town Board member this November […]

Supervisors vote on judges, 11 Warren Street

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors at its October 11 meeting: authorized revising the county’s drug and alcohol testing policy for Commercial Drivers Licenses (CDLs); moved forward […]

County takes 3 giant steps for local affordable housing

By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON – On October 19, 2023, Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-106th), joined by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie at a press conference, announced that $1.5 million in funding […]

Veteran celebrates birthday at Equine Advocates

By DAVID LEE CHATHAM – Shirley Thompson, of Nassau, celebrated her 102nd birthday on October 11 with a visit to the Equine Advocates horse rescue. Ms. Thompson is one of […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Beebe Hill State Forest

By NANCY JANE KERN WE OFTEN OVERLOOK THE BEAUTIFUL places close to home like the Beebe Hill State Forest northeast of Spencertown. I went to Red Rock, then east, and […]

Film festival with local focus shines again

By DAVID LEE CHATHAM –There is a lot of excitement around the Crandell Theatre, 48 Main Street, as the preparations for the 23rd annual FilmColumbia Festival are being made. As […]

Handel’s ‘Rodelinda’ comes to Hudson Hall

By DAVID LEE HUDSON – Opera returns to Hudson Hall for a new production of George Frideric Handel’s Baroque opera “Rodelinda.” It is directed by R.B. Schlather whose list of […]

Speed a factor in fatal crash that claimed teen

By DIANE VALDEN HILLSDALE—Last respects were paid October 22 to Landon DeLease, a 17-year-old Taconic Hills High School junior killed in a car crash near 289 Hunt Road, October 17 […]

Indians steamroll past Gloversville 55-0 in first playoff game

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians won their ninth straight game heading into the playoffs Friday night against the Gloversville Huskies. The Huskies ended the […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Coeymans’ bravest looking for heroes to join their ranks

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The number of volunteer firefighters has declined nationally, but the need remains — and Coeymans Fire Company is hoping to draw […]

‘Bach, Bagels, Broadway & Beyond’ features guitar virtuoso Robert Secrist

The performance “Bach, Bagels, Broadway & Beyond” will feature live music performed by internationally recognized guitar virtuoso Robert Secrist on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 3-5 p.m. at the historic Gristmill […]

Former Bush’s store to be redeveloped by new owner

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — After standing vacant for about two decades, a local eyesore has been sold and will be redeveloped by a new owner. […]

Collins, Geoghegan on ballot for county Legislature

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Two candidates will be on the ballot Nov. 7 for the county Legislature seat representing Coeymans in the 37th district. The […]

Social Security Matters: Will the family maximum limit my benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I have a question about the family maximum SS retirement benefit. As I understand it, if the breadwinner is drawing […]

Living on Purpose: Jesus loves the little children

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Last week we talked about how desperately we need to reach all children for Christ, and I still have much to […]

Body, Mind and Spirit Connections: What are the messages that resistance brings?

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media No one likes roadblocks, detour signs, traffic slowdowns, or being told that we aren’t able to move forward due to our own […]

Soft Paws: Blessing of the animals

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media The warm, empowering, prayerful blessing of the animals recently at CGHS/SPCA was filled with hope and gratitude and protection, everyone’s spirits not […]

Positively Speaking: Personality

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media What sparks the essence of our personalities? Some people seemingly dance through life. Every event, however trivial, is met with infectious optimism. […]

Whittling Away: Telephones

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Telephones are not my favorite thing. Not being one to indulge in frivolous chit chat much, the telephone then becomes a way […]

Cornell Cooperative Extension announces ‘Taste of Twin Counties’ fundraiser

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties will present the “Taste of Twin Counties” Fall Harvest fundraising event on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 5:30–7:30 p.m., at The BARN at […]

Help sought to find missing teen

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is seeking the public’s assistance in locating missing teen Alisha Rodgers. Alisha, 16, was last seen in Albany on Sept. 7. She […]

Historical Society’s final 2023 program: ‘Barent, the Miller, He Pays No Rent’

RAVENA-COEYMANS — This year the town of Coeymans has been celebrating the 350th anniversary of its founding. The Ravena Coeymans Historical Society’s final program of that anniversary is to be […]

Horses of Unbridled: The Unbridled experience: Compassion, sanctuary and transformation

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Nestled within the walls of a repurposed barn — once a home to harness show horses and now a sanctuary for rescued […]

GOOD NEWS!: Grange honors family’s half-century of service to veterans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — When a veteran returns from service and struggles to reintegrate into the community, perhaps enduring years of difficulties, where can they […]

Copake hopeful about Rapid Care Center reopening

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Columbia Memorial Health’s Copake Rapid Care Center at 283 Mountain View Road may be on the road to recovery. At the October 12 Copake Town Board meeting, […]

County voters tend to turn out

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—Abraham Lincoln said, “Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their backs to the fire and burn their behinds, then […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Indians finish regular season with undefeated 8-0 record

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians’ explosive offense scored a season high of 50 points Friday night to the Ichabod Crane Riders’ 7. The 50-7 […]

Winter 2023-24 RCS sports registration begins

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district has released winter sports information for the 2023-24 school year. Please note that not all details, such as coaches, first practice dates, etc., are […]

3 run for 2 seats on Town Board in Kinderhook

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK – Current Kinderhook Town Supervisor Timothy (Tim) Ooms is running unopposed for reelection. Mr. Ooms, a Republican, is endorsed by both his party and the town […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The hymn I heard

By NANCY JANE KERN “When through the woods and forest glades I wander, and hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees; ” (Stuart K. Hine version 1953) TORRENTIAL RAIN […]

Dr. Pressey named Hudson CSD DEI Manager

HUDSON – The Hudson City School District has announced the appointment of Dr. Tia L. Pressey as the Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Manager of the Hudson City School District. […]

Opioid settlement funds go a long way

HUDSON—Nearly $300,000 in Opioid Settlement funds were distributed to six agencies via a resolution adopted by the Columbia County Board of Supervisors at its July full board meeting. The funding […]

GOOD NEWS!: Trostle is Greenville’s newest Eagle Scout

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Nick Trostle is one of the elite few who has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Trostle’s Eagle Scout Court of […]

McHugh, Donnelly vie for town supervisor’s seat   

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Two candidates are vying for the town’s top spot in the Nov. 7 election. Incumbent Republican Town Supervisor George McHugh faces […]

Social Security Matters: How will my wife’s Social Security be affected by her teacher’s pension?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife, born in 1960, was a Texas school teacher for about 10 years and receives a $1,000 per month […]

Living on Purpose: If the dark side can deceive one generation…

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media A child’s mind is like a sponge that is constantly absorbing more information. This can be a good thing if they […]

Positively Speaking: Finding meaning in life

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media A life that exemplified triumph over the deepest abysses of despair is that of Dr. Viktor Frankl. During World War II, Dr. […]

Whittling Away: Feeling contrary

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media   I woke up this morning feeling a little out of sorts.  I didn’t sleep well last night and got up early to […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 12, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald –October 10, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Police: Bethlehem schools locked out in ‘swatting’ incident

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — All schools in the Bethlehem Central School District were in lockout following a report of a bomb threat Wednesday. On Oct. […]

Horses of Unbridled: SnowBall: From my perspective

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Hello, world! My name is Snowball, and I’m the tiniest resident at Unbridled, the place I now proudly call home. I want […]

RCS survey: Input sought on district’s progress

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district has put out a survey seeking input from the community on what the district has accomplished and […]

Suspect charged with using a stick in attack

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—City of Hudson Police arrested Michelle L. Moskaluk, 34, of Hudson for: first degree robbery with a dangerous instrument, a class B felony; third degree criminal possession […]

In Chatham two run for supervisor; four seek board seats

By EMILIA TEASDALE CHATHAM—Current Town Supervisor Donal Collins is running for reelection on the Republican and Chatham For All ballot lines. He is running against Christopher W. Spencer on the […]

McCoy unveils proposed county budget with tax rate drop

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy released the Executive Budget for 2024. The $819 million budget includes an 8.3% spending increase over […]

Chatham voters determine fate of preservation prop

____ELECTION 2023____ By DEBORAH E. LANS CHATHAM – This November Chatham voters will decide whether to create the first Community Preservation Fund in the county. The fund would be dedicated […]

Indians’ winning streak hits 7

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Indians football team continued their winning ways Friday night with their seventh straight win of the season. The hometown […]

RCS’s wrestling stars of tomorrow

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS has a long and proud history in its wrestling program. Many of those high school athletes do not get their […]

Trespassing charge leads to local controversy

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Carver Companies owns the Port of Coeymans and is one of the area’s largest employers, but the company’s growth and impact […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

No charges for police in death of man who caught on fire after being Tasered

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CATSKILL — Catskill police officers have been cleared by the state attorney general in the death of Jason Jones, who died in December […]

Supervisor, council seats on the line in Ancram

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—This “off-year” political season has been anything but a snoozer in this southeastern Columbia County town with a population of 1,440 as determined by the 2020 census. […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Birds nest soup

By NANCY JANE KERN RECENTLY A FRIEND SENT ME A PHOTO of a chimney swift nest that had fallen down an unused chimney. The birds and eggs were long gone […]

Social Security Matters: How do disability programs affect Social Security’s budget?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I read with interest an analysis of the history, reasons and financial costs of the SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and […]

Living on Purpose: God’s love is about forgiveness, not condemnation

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Some of you might keep a close watch on the news, and others may listen occasionally or not at all, but […]

Soft Paws: Preparing dogs for winter

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media The time is here and now to prepare your outside or sometimes-outside dogs for the winter season to follow. Messages about an […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Please be kind and rewind

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Yes, back in the day, this was a common phrase used in reference to videocassettes that we rented from local vendors like […]

Positively Speaking: Consistency

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media When you ask schoolchildren what they aspire to be when they grow up, their minds dart to specific professions. One might dream […]

Whittling Away: This will be brief

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media One of my chores as house husband of our castle consists of laundry duty.  It isn’t one of my more favorite tasks. […]

Bethlehem industries to recognize Manufacturing Day at RCS football game

BETHLEHEM – National Manufacturing Day is observed on Oct. 6, and in honor of that day, three of the largest industries in Bethlehem will be at the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School […]

Obituary: James M. Moore

MEDUSA – James M. Moore, 73, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023, with family at his side. Jim was born in Catskill on Dec. 5, 1949, […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: History of the Greenville Quilters

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media Two beloved members of the Greenville Quilters were honored posthumously last month: Doris Vedder and Dottie Hesel.  Let me tell you […]

Village scarecrow contest puts creativity to the test

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — It’s time to put those creative skills to the test. The village is hosting its second annual “Village of Ravena Scarecrow […]

Obituary: Velma Powell Kiley

OAK HILL – Velma Powell Kiley, 91, passed away in the comfort of her home on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, with her family by her side. Born in Coeymans Hollow […]

Alleged home invader removed from train

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police arrested Matthew J. McNamara, 31, of Walden (Orange County) for: second degree burglary, a class C felony; third degree assault; fourth degree criminal mischief and […]

Brews, Bites & Bands: ‘Ravena’s take on Oktoberfest’

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — They came, they saw, they drank. And ate and partied. The second annual Brews, Bites & Bands event was held Sunday […]

Copake makes affordable housing plan the law

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The lack of affordable housing is a crisis throughout Columbia County and the country. Committees and task forces on all levels of government have been engaged in […]

State Senate wants judges to be lawyers

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – Town and village Justices in New York State need not have law degrees. This year the state Senate passed a bill requiring those with “high […]

Two run for District Attorney

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT – Long-time District Attorney Paul Czajka is retiring this year, and two candidates are running for the four-year position of District Attorney of Columbia County: […]

Albany Saratoga Massive Weekend: Tremont ends his epic racing career

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media The Albany Saratoga Massive Weekend was just that. Friday night started off with a massive number of cars in the pits that […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

CLIMATE SMART: BYO gains momentum in Columbia County

By KATHRYN BEILKE YOU’VE HEARD THE ADAGE that it only takes 21 days to start a new habit. While that may not be true for everyone, putting a new behavior […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Beautiful fall flowers

By NANCY JANE KERN IT IS NOW FALL and beautiful wildflowers are a nice addition to the colorful leaves and part of the last flash of color before the snow […]

Hudson city and school have issues over land

By EMILIA TEASDALE HUDSON—The City of Hudson is responding to a statement from the Hudson City School District about vacant land that could be used for affordable housing.On September 25, […]

RCS unveils new name: the Ravens

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district has unveiled the new team name and mascot. RCS will be the home of the Ravens beginning […]

Police seek help finding missing man

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson City Police are actively seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing person, Robert J. Coons, 63, who was last seen July 6 at 10:30 a.m. […]

Selkirk woman faces illegal weapons, child endangerment charges

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A Selkirk woman was arrested Thursday on gun charges originating from a report from Child Protective Services, according to Bethlehem Police. […]

Class of 1973 returns to see a new generation of education

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Class of 1973 returned to its old stomping grounds Saturday for its 50th reunion. The reunion weekend was filled […]

Youth Big-Game Hunt this weekend

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced that the Youth Big Game Hunt will be held this weekend. Bowhunting seasons for deer and bear began in […]

Social Security Matters: Federal taxation of Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Why are my Social Security benefits being taxed at all? The Social Security FICA payroll taxes taken out of my […]

Living on Purpose: Until one has loved an animal

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Cheryl and I grew up around dogs and when we were married, it did not take long for us to bring […]

Positively Speaking: Embracing uncertainty

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Many of us have an innate discomfort with change. Humans crave predictability — from the consistent taste of our favorite drive-thru burger […]

Whittling Away: In Bag Balm we trust

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media By the time you read this, I will be the proud possessor of a shiny new left knee.  I tried WD-40 on […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 28, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – September 26, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Final 350th anniversary events close out year of festivities

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town closed out nearly a year of festivities this weekend with the final events marking Coeymans’ 350th anniversary. Family Fest […]

Town adopts new dog control law

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The town council adopted a new dog control law at the board’s Sept. 18 meeting. The aim of Local Law #2 […]

Suspect charged with kidnapping in Charlotte Sena disappearance

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media LATHAM — The suspect arrested in the disappearance of 9-year-old Charlotte Sena has been charged with kidnapping, according to state police. Craig Nelson […]

Hochul: Charlotte Sena rescued after fingerprint found on ransom note

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media LATHAM — Charlotte Sena, 9, who went missing while camping with her family at Moreau Lake State Park on Saturday, was allegedly being […]

Girls’ volleyball team raises funds for cancer research

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS varsity girls volleyball team put their skills to work this weekend to aid cancer research. On Saturday, the team […]

Missing girl found safe and healthy

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Charlotte Sena, the 9-year-old girl who went missing Saturday evening, was found Monday evening and is in good health, according to New York […]

FBI called in on Charlotte Sena search

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media The search for 9-year-old Charlotte Sena continues and state police say they have called in federal and other agencies to aid in the […]

Young girl still missing

New York State Police and Gov. Kathy Hochul held a press conference Sunday afternoon to discuss the disappearance of 9-year-old Charlotte Sena. The child was last seen about 6:15 p.m. […]

County Board meeting September 13

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – Issues surrounding a building Columbia County expects to purchase, cameras on school buses, and police officers in Questar III/BOCES’s Greenport building received attention at the […]

Development vision to multiply HHA households and reconfigure streets

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Hudson Housing Authority’s redevelopment partner presented a proposal for replacing Hudson’s Bliss Tower with lower, longer buildings holding more than twice as many apartments, […]

Indians hand first loss to Sabres in nailbiter, 14-7

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — When the RCS Indians and the Schalmont Sabres, both undefeated as of Friday night, went head to head, it was a […]

County Court races: four candidates for two judicial slots

ELECTION 2023 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT – With the retirements of Judges Richard Koweek and Jonathan Nichols at the end of 2023, the two judgeships on the Columbia County […]

EDITORIAL: Election letters policy for 2023

By PARRY TEASDALE We will publish letters of support for candidates up to and including our November 2, 2023 edition. This includes letters from candidates responding directly to letters critical […]

Horses of Unbridled: The emotional tapestry of equine lives: Rahy, Noelle, Ginger and Sweet Pea

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Unbridled is a sanctuary, a place of refuge and a safe haven that offers a reprieve to horses from chaotic circumstances as […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Heritage Craft Fair, Oct. 1

COXSACKIE — On Sunday, Oct. 1, celebrate the fall season in the Hudson Valley at the Bronck Museum’s Heritage Craft Fair from 12-4 p.m.    On porches, nestled beside the barns, […]

Supervisor’s Message: 2024 Budget Message

By George McHugh Coeymans Town Supervisor As the town’s chief fiscal officer, it is my honor and privilege to present the 2024 proposed annual tentative budget for the town of […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: The looking glass of time

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media In preparation for two very significant milestones earlier this year, I found that I would often drift off into a state of […]

Social Security Matters: Nonagenarian war veteran asks about extra credit for his service

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I’m turning 95 this year and am caretaker for my wife in our 70th year of marriage. I served before […]

Living on Purpose: How serious are we about hating sin?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media We spoke last week about addictions that involve more people than we could imagine, and we should realize by now that […]

Soft Paws: Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media Our CGHS/SPCA is anticipating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi with a blessing of all animals at the shelter on Saturday, […]

Positively Speaking: Use it or lose it

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media The maxim “Use it or lose it” is heard so often it’s practically a background track to our lives. But wait! Before […]

Whittling Away: Choices

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Some days I find myself feeling a little overwhelmed and I long for a simpler time, like my childhood days in the […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 21, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – September 19, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Final 350th anniversary event this weekend

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — This year marks the 350th anniversary of the town of Coeymans, and while many of the celebratory events took place earlier […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A deer’s passion and peril

By NANCY JANE KERN   A DOE AND HER FAWN shot across the lawn in apparent terror. Some seconds later a wild-eyed eight-point buck bounded through in pursuit. There had been […]

Taconic Hills CSD appoints new superintendent

CRARYVILLE – The Taconic Hills Central School District Board of Education has announced the appointment of Lynnette Brunger as Superintendent of Schools, effective October 10. The Board of Education unanimously […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Friesen picks up his historic 3rd Fonda 200 win       

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Each week the great racing tradition continues at the “Track of Champions,” Fonda Speedway, as it has since 1953. Another tradition concluded […]

GOOD NEWS!: Heroes Way: A path to reflection and a salute to heroism

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WESTERLO — When aspiring Eagle Scout Drew Joslin began looking around for a community service project to complete his Eagle requirements, he didn’t […]

Obituary: Rosemary M. Donato

CLIFTON PARK — Rosemary M. (Olcott) Donato, age 76, passed away at Schuyler Ridge Residential Home on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, after a decline in health. Rosemary was born on […]

DEC announces start of small-game hunting seasons

ALBANY — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced the start of several small-game hunting seasons in the coming weeks. WATERFOWL HUNTING New York offers vast waterfowl […]

Friday night football

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Here are more images from the RCS Indians’ game Friday night against Mechanicville/Hoosic Valley. The Indians picked up another win by a score of 41-6. Thanks to photographer […]

Community turns out in big numbers on Greenville Day weekend

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Even threatening skies and intermittent rain couldn’t keep revelers from turning out in big numbers on Greenville Day weekend. The two-day […]

Ghent man charged with child sex abuse

By DIANE VALDEN GHENT—State Police from the Livingston barracks in conjunction with the Columbia County Child Advocacy Center arrested Robert G. Schaefer, 52, of Ghent for first degree sexual abuse, […]

Board concerned over including Lebanon Spring in water plan

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – Should Lebanon Spring be included in the town’s Water Protection Plan or not? At the September 12 meeting, when the town board was […]

Craft fair showcases local talent

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Local kids and business owners showcased their talents at the fourth annual RCS Middle School Craft Fair on Sunday. Typically held […]

Copake’s Santa fondly recalled

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Copake lost its very own Santa Claus when Christopher Quinby died September 6 at age 74. Not only did he portray the jolly old elf at Christmastime, […]

OPINION: Dear readers

By WARREN DEWS, JR. I’ve been in the media business for three decades. I’ve worked in New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Massachusetts and Vermont, to name a few. During my […]

Indians’ streak continues with 41-6 win

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians won again on the gridiron Friday night, this time defeating Mechanicville/Hoosic Valley by a score of 41-6. It was […]

Why so many county crashes?

BY DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—In July, a 16 year old was arrested for driving, drunk, at more than 100 miles per hour on Route 20 in New Lebanon. His Honda […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: White Pines

By NANCY JANE KERN THE WHITE PINE TREES around the house begin to get scruffy this time of year. This is a normal phenomenon and is called seasonal needle loss […]

The Little Red Schoolhouse Open House, Sept. 24

COEYMANS HOLLOW — The Little Red Schoolhouse Historical Society will hold its third fall open house on Sunday, Sept. 24, from 2-4 p.m. The schoolhouse is located on Route 143 […]

State, CCSD clash over cash reserves

By EMILIA TEASDALE CHATHAM—On August 11, the state Comptroller’s Office released the findings of a recent audit that determined the Chatham Central School District’s Board of Education and district officials […]

Horses of Unbridled: Love beyond limits: The journey of Laurie and Liam

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the heart of Unbridled, a sanctuary where volunteers tirelessly attend to the unique daily needs of each horse, a captivating love […]

Two pedestrians killed in crosswalk crash

By DIANE VALDEN NEW LEBANON—State Police are investigating a double fatal car versus pedestrians crash. Saturday, September 9 at 8:21 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the crosswalk near the New […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Final survey to pick new team name is out

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — After a months-long process and engagement with the local community, the RCS school district is looking to finalize the district’s new […]

Heritage Craft Fair, Oct. 1

COXSACKIE — On Sunday, Oct. 1, celebrate the fall season in the Hudson Valley at the Bronck Museum’s Heritage Craft Fair from 12-4 p.m.    On porches, nestled beside the barns, […]

Social Security Matters: Will opening a joint account affect my disabled father’s SSI?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: I live in Michigan and my senior disabled father lives in rural Kentucky. His income is part Social Security and […]

Living on Purpose: Being honest with God and ourselves

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media In the field of psychology, cognitive dissonance is the perception of contradictory information and the mental toll of it. Relevant items […]

Positively Speaking: Conceive, believe, achieve

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media The adage “no one is an island” reminds us that we are social creatures, usually with the need to collaborate and thrive […]

Whittling Away: Where did white paint go?

I went to the hardware store the other day. My mission was simple — buy some white paint. Little did I realize that I was biting off more than I […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 14, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: $10 in prizes will be given, $5 for the best costume and $5 for the funniest outfit. Finke’s […]

Lord’s Acre Auction and Fair turns 67

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Bargain shoppers and church members gathered at Trinity United Methodist Church on Saturday for the annual Lord’s Acre Auction and […]

Obituary: Dorothy Harriet Hesel

GREENVILLE – Dorothy Harriet “Dottie” Hesel, born Dec. 22, 1936, passed into eternal rest on Sept. 17, 2023, at Albany Medical Center. The only child of John H. “Jack” Piersma […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: William Hall, Catskill Mountains minister

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media About a year ago, Russell Mahan from Utah stopped at the Oak Hill Methodist Church seeking information about William Hall, a […]

Innovation Station opens doors to a high-tech future

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Innovation Station held its grand opening Sunday, giving the community its first look at the new technology hub for local […]

OUR VIEW: There is no replacement for quality journalism

By Mark Vinciguerra President, Capital Region Independent Media Across the country, quality journalism is critical for sharing important news affecting our society. Through their timely reporting, journalists play a uniquely […]

CGCC budget means slight decrease for county

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Columbia County Board of Supervisors approved the 2023-24 Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC) operating budget, at its monthly full board meeting August 9. The total […]

Indians undefeated after 48-0 shutout

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Indians remain undefeated after Friday night’s big 48-0 shutout of Green Tech. The hometown team came to the field […]

Last week’s storm battered New Lebanon

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – The weather last Thursday, September 7, was fickle but also downright dangerous. Some municipalities escaped with little or no damage, but others, like […]

Multiple voices make for tasty book festival

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE SPENCERTOWN FESTIVAL OF BOOKS (FOB) presented by the Spencertown Academy Arts Center, is a 4-day smorgasbord for bibliophiles, held over the Labor Day weekend. This […]

Residents air concerns over converting church to town hall

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Town hall was packed with residents looking to air their questions and concerns over a proposal to convert the Grace United […]

Need a ride? Here’s what the county offers now

By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON—Could you live in Columbia County without a car? What transportation services are available? Who uses them? What else is needed? Following on an extensive Transportation […]

EDITORIAL: The Columbia Paper now $2 an issue

By PARRY TEASDALE GHENT—LIKE EVERYTHING ELSE, the cost of publishing The Columbia Paper each week has been hit hard by the most recent inflation. We’re doing our best to bring […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Blowing up stuff

By NANCY JANE KERN LOOKING BACK from my now senior status I did not have the usual or dull childhood. This was partly from living on a farm and partly […]

Rescued from the brink: On Demand’s journey to a life of dignity

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the heart of the Thoroughbred world, where legends are born, a remarkable story unfolded – one of resilience, compassion, and the […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Pavilion: ‘A beautiful testament to love, resilience and community spirit’

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The Ingalls family unveiled the new pavilion at Vanderbilt Town Park, built in honor of family members who came before them. […]

Police warn of phone scam

BETHLEHEM — The Bethlehem Police Department would like to alert the public to a scam involving individuals who are calling Bethlehem residents and identifying themselves as a police officer with […]

Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Muldoon

Elizabeth Ann (Liz) Muldoon, 80, of High Point, North Carolina, went home to heaven on Aug. 28, 2023, surrounded by her family after a period of declining health.  Liz was […]

Social Security Matters: Why is my age 70 benefit not higher than my January amount?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I plan to retire in 2025 (the year I turn 70). Given that I’m still working, I’m delaying my Social […]

Living on Purpose: Darkness can never overcome God’s light

By Dr. Willliam Holland For Capital Region Independent Media There is a lot of talk today about the reality of a global system of organized evil that controls the governments […]

Be A Better Gardener: Fall lawn seeding

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media Most of us have fallen into the habit of thinking of spring as the season for planting seeds, but in fact, grass […]

Positively Speaking: When one door closes…

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media The adage “When one door closes, another opens” often rolls off the tongue so easily it risks becoming trite. Yet, in the […]

Whittling Away: Supermarkets aren’t for wimps

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It doesn’t seem that long ago as time is measured that I would go in search of adventure during any free time […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 7, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – September 5, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Important words from HCSD’s new superintendent

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – “The diversity of the student body,” the strategic plan’s “focus on the student,” and the beauty of the area are reasons Dr. Juliette Pennyman gave […]

Brandow convicted in child sex assault case

HUDSON—Defendant Jamel Brandow was convicted by a jury trial in Columbia County Court August 15 for sexually abusing two children, according to a press release from the Columbia County District […]

New Lebanon Town board reviews well testing results

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – When the town board met earlier in August, most of the meeting dealt with commercial self-storage units, which was reported on in an […]

Mayor: Bring Grace UMC concerns to village board, too

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — With the informal public hearing on the possible use of Grace United Methodist Church as a new town hall set for […]

9/11: ‘Greene County has not forgotten’

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — The annual ceremony in honor of those lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks remembered the fallen and urged the […]

Firefighters show their lighter side in Mardi Gras parade

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — Area firefighters showed their lighter side in the annual Mardi Gras parade, held this year in Coxsackie. The off-the-wall festivities are […]

RCS dominates in 2nd game of season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Indians dominated on both offense and defense in their second game of the season on their home turf Sunday […]

Communities pay tribute to volunteer firefighters

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — The streets of downtown Coxsackie were lined Saturday with spectators cheering on volunteer firefighters in their annual Dress Parade. Fire companies […]

State nudges super-sized solar plant forward

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The controversial Shepherd’s Run Solar project took a step forward August 25, when the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) deemed Hecate Energy’s application […]

Two pedestrians killed in crosswalk crash

By DIANE VALDEN NEW LEBANON—State Police are investigating a double fatal car versus pedestrians crash. Saturday, September 9 at 8:21 p.m., troopers were dispatched to the crosswalk near the New […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Utica Rome STSS New Yorker

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Making our way to the Utica Rome Speedway, it was a much different day than promoter Brett Deyo is used to as […]

Obituary: Harriet Gill-Miller

Harriet Gill-Miller, 76, formerly of New Baltimore, passed away three years ago on Jan. 8, 2020. Harriet was raised in New Baltimore, daughter of the late Carrie and Frank Gill. […]

The Doctor? She’ll see you now

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY HILLSDALE—Hillsdale resident Dr. Irma Waldo is in her 99th year, though she barely looks a day over 65. At age 25 she became a medical doctor […]

Horses of Unbridled: Unveiling the hidden struggles of unwanted Thoroughbred mares

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In a world where the thundering hooves of racehorses echo with power and prestige, the plight of unwanted mares in the Thoroughbred […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

UPDATED: Many in New Leb without power

NEW LEBANON–There is still dry ice and water available at the New Lebanon Firehouse by Jimmy D’s until 7 pm tonight (9/9) and again tomorrow (9/10) from 8 am until […]

Pot producers pop up in Copake

By DAVID LEE COPAKE – In New York State, the recreational use of cannabis has been legal for adults ages 21 and over since 2021. As the roll-out for selling […]

OPINION: There is no replacement for quality journalism

By MARK VINCIGUERRA ACROSS THE COUNTRY, quality journalism is critical for sharing important news affecting our society. Through their timely reporting, journalists play a uniquely critical role in informing, engaging, […]

Superintendent’s Message: A new school year

By Michael Bennett For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Greenville Families, I’d like to officially welcome everyone back for another exciting year. Experience can be an excellent teacher and having […]

Public hearing on church building next week

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council will hold a public hearing Sept. 14 to gauge community reaction to the option of purchasing and converting […]

Whittling Away: Technology

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media There is no question that technology is a good thing. Without it and the search for it, humans would still be hunkered […]

Social Security Matters: When should I claim my Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am 64 years old and still working full-time. My question is — when should I start my Social Security? […]

Living on Purpose: Do others respect your relationship with God?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media The Christian and the non-Christian are supposed to be different. In fact, so different, the Bible says that once a person […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Staycations 

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Although the concept of “staycations” is certainly not new, it was for my husband and me this summer. For a variety of […]

Be A Better Gardener: ‘Dr. Dirt’ and the dangers of lead in soil

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all heard the news about lead in the drinking water in older cities such as Flint, Michigan, and the harm it […]

Positively Speaking: Friend to foe

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Life has a way of testing us, throwing curveballs when we least expect them. You may find yourself doing everything right, working […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 31, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 29, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Body, Mind & Spirit: Acupuncture and Chinese medicine here in our backyard

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Purely by chance, I happened upon a gifted practitioner, Ms. Hui-Hsin Liu, while looking for alternative medicine practitioners close by. I knew […]

Coeymans Landing restroom bid comes in at $377K

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Flach Industries was awarded the contract to build a public restroom facility at Coeymans Landing. Flach submitted the lowest bid, coming […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Super Blue Moon

By NANCY JANE KERN “ONCE IN A BLUE MOON” is a saying that denotes a rare occurrence and is a moon that rises about once in every three years. It […]

Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ performed in Churchtown

By DAVID LEE CHURCHTOWN – In production since May, the play came together for three 200-capacity full-house performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings at the Churchtown Dairy (see front […]

Man charged with groping women at Bard

By DIANE VALDEN RED HOOK—State Police arrested Nathan Holmes, 32, of Gallatin for two counts of forcible touching, a class A misdemeanor, August 24. Investigations into two separate incidents at […]

Hallway Walk a hit

GREENVILLE — The halls of Scott M. Ellis Elementary School echoed with excitement as young Spartans from kindergarten to fifth grade embarked on an interactive scavenger hunt that brought students […]

Horses of Unbridled: In loving memory: Celebrating the life and love of Andrea Basile

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media On Jan. 17, 2023, the world bid farewell to a beloved soul whose unwavering compassion touched lives and transformed hearts. Andrea Basile, […]

Homeowners: No sidewalks needed here

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A group of homeowners is voicing their concerns over construction of sidewalks in their neighborhood. Several residents on Frangella Drive, Einie […]

Future of HHA property discussed along with current issues

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Hudson Housing Authority’s redevelopment partner presented scenarios that would include closing part of State Street and extending First Street, at the HHA Board of […]

History program: ‘Jacob Parish, Who?’

RAVENA — On Sunday, Sept. 17, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will present its first program of the fall season. In keeping with the programs themed around […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed areinnocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended ordismissed. STATE POLICE

Housing crisis: Who’s doing what to ease it?

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—What Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress (Pattern) wrote in a recent study of the entire Hudson Valley applies equally to the county’s housing crisis: The “problems […]

Summertime traditions say so long for now

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—Okay. You may have read about these two groups before. After all, the Ghent Band has been in existence since 1899. And, almost as long as […]

Concert for Train Depot Restoration

By Staff NEW LEBANON — The organizers for the New Lebanon Train Depot restoration project are planning a benefit concert for Sunday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. at Tannery Pond […]

LOCAL EVENTS: Spencertown hosts annual bookfest

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE 18TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF BOOKS (FOB), at the Spencertown Academy Arts Center, runs Labor Day weekend, September 1 to 4. The 4-day event includes 7 […]

EDITORIAL: IT’S BACK! …so are we

By PARRY TEASDALE THE BIG NEWS is that the Columbia County Fair is up and running (and mooing and clucking and oinking and entertaining and smashing and spinning and parading […]

Superintendent’s outlook on new school year

By Sierra Pizzola Greenville Central School District Another school year has commenced for many Greene County students this week, including the Greenville Spartans. Last week, Superintendent Michael Bennett said he’s […]

Supervisor’s Message: September update

By George McHugh Coeymans Town Supervisor With nearly 11 inches of rain falling on Coeymans in July, it was the wettest July in recorded history! In spite of the heavy […]

Social Security Matters: What is the future of Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Is there any way that Congress will vote to pay back the Social Security funds they took and left IOUs […]

Be A Better Gardener: Starting fall crops indoors

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media I used to start the vegetable garden with a burst of enthusiasm in the spring, filling my plot with seeds and seedlings […]

Living on Purpose: Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Humans have always wanted to be happy. It’s the reason and purpose that people live. Why do we work and make […]

Soft Paws: Invisible fences

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media A couple of years ago, I worked with a lovely woman (“Mrs. M.”) who had adopted a young mixed breed dog after […]

Positively Speaking: The power of ‘no’

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I’m a people pleaser. I have a tough time saying no. If I tell someone no, I often feel I’m letting them […]

Whittling Away: Diet, diet, diet

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The indicators are starting to appear again, those little arrows that start blinking through my mental fog: “Diet-diet-diet.” I know now why […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 24, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 22, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Wildlife all around us

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — From snakes to owls to hawks, there is wildlife all around us every day. Mackenzie Roof, the wildlife programs manager at […]

Lawmakers table new dog control law

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The Greenville Town Council tabled a proposed local law regulating the activities of dogs in the town. A public hearing Aug. […]

Obituary: Doris A. Alix

CATSKILL – Doris A. Alix, 93, passed away at The Pines of Catskill on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. Doris was born in Catskill on Aug. 13, 1930, a daughter of […]

Innovation Station training STEM leaders of tomorrow

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Tomorrow’s leaders in the science and technology fields are being trained right now, and the local community is working to give […]

Westerlo man charged with rape

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WESTERLO — A Westerlo man was charged with third-degree rape, according to state police. Michael Dickershaid, 32, of Westerlo, was arrested at his […]

Va. man returned to NY on Bethlehem arrest warrant

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — A Virginia man has been arrested and transported to New York on charges related to a domestic incident in Bethlehem. Steven […]

GOOD NEWS!: Friendship Festival unites a community

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Friendship Festival came to Mosher Park on Saturday, uniting a community and bringing together friends both old and new. Now […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Danny Varin claims 1st All-Star Circuit of Champions 410 Sprint

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media The 2023 Fonda Speedway season was coming down to the final night of points for champions. This is a promoter’s dream. However, […]

Horses of Unbridled: The unbreakable spirit of Zelda: A chronicle of compassion and resilience 

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media As the world paused and collectively held its breath during the tumultuous throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, amidst the chaos and uncertainty […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

From best-selling sneakers to computers, a back-to-school shopping list

By Tim Farkas Capital Region Independent Media I hated going back to school. I hated having to go back to school. I hated my kids having to go back, and […]

Philanthropist Joan K. Davidson dies at 96

HUDSON — Joan Kaplan Davidson, president of Furthermore grants in publishing and president emeritus of the J. M. Kaplan Fund, died on August 11. She was 96. In 1995, Ms. […]

Friendship Festival: Time to make memories

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Friendship Festival is about more than games and fun… it’s a time to make memories. Village Trustee and festival organizer […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A strange find

By NANCY JANE KERN WE WERE THE FIRST DINERS to arrive at a small restaurant, and as we reached for the entrance door, a strange glittery winged object on the […]

Greenville Rotary awards scholarships to five GCS graduates

GREENVILLE — The Greenville Rotary Club recently awarded $500 scholarships to five students from the Greenville Central School class of 2023.  The awards are given to students in recognition of […]

Little Red Schoolhouse schedules fall open houses

COEYMANS HOLLOW — The Little Red Schoolhouse Historical Society is pleased to announce the schedule for this year’s fall open houses. The schoolhouse, which is located on Route 143 in […]

Social Security Matters: When should my wife claim Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife will be 65 next year, and her full retirement age is 66 years plus 10 months. Can she […]

Living on Purpose: Being transformed by the renewing of our mind

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media When we think about the challenges and possibilities of our future, it’s easy to ignore our responsibilities while we imagine someone […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Unexpected visitors

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Recalling days gone by, when we lived in Brooklyn, it was actually quite common to hear the ring of the doorbell on […]

Positively Speaking: The dream thief

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media The dream thief is a cunning adversary lurking in the shadows, ready to strike at any stage. Whether you’re at the beginning […]

Whittling Away: Yard sales

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Cocaine, alcohol, nicotine and yard sales. All addictive, all life-ruining, but fortunately the first three can be fought, subdued, and in some […]

Helping Harvest offers low-cost produce thanks to Seymour Fox Memorial Foundation

RAVENA — Struggling families have access to deeply discounted fresh produce at Helping Harvest, a low-cost grocery store program, thanks to the Seymour Fox Memorial Foundation. Hope Full Life Center, […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Gardens of the Month

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media The Clematis Garden Club has honored a group of gardens on one end of Oak Hill by designating them collectively as […]

EMS: healthy service, weak funds

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—Columbia County’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS), which oversees ambulances operating in the county, faces new challenges. Last year, the county hired the consulting firm Fitch and Associates […]

Man faces multiple gun charges after shooting self in leg

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—The man who shot himself in the leg, got into his car, drove away and crashed into a Coarc van a block away on July 20, turned […]

Obituary: Joyce M. Olmsted

COEYMANS – Joyce (Mosher) Olmsted, 76, passed away on Aug. 7, 2023.  Born in Endicott, NY, she is the daughter of the late Harold and Bernice Mosher. Survivors include her […]

GOOD NEWS!: Businesses, fire dept. pool resources for veterans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — A pair of local businesses and the New Baltimore Fire Department and its auxiliary united in a single cause — […]

GOOD NEWS!: Cub Scouts: Building character, one boy at a time

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Cub Scout Pack 42 wants to share its opportunities with more boys in the community. The pack held a Field Day […]

Developments on the self-storage facilities issue

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – For nearly a year the Town of New Lebanon has been debating the pros and cons of self-storage locations and the actual need […]

Grace UMC on the table as new town hall

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council is considering purchasing and renovating the Grace United Methodist Church building and turning it into a new town […]

Kinderhook park named for Dunham family

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—At a ceremony on July 29, Village Mayor Michael Abrams read the Village Board motion declaring that “the village park at the western corner of Broad and […]

Who needs affordable housing? Some portraits

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—The county’s Housing Development Coordinator. The Executive Director of the county’s Cornell Cooperative Extension. A member of the Chatham Town Board and congressional aide. These are […]

GOOD NEWS!: Ravena teen is nationally ranked cornhole player

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Perhaps one of the most unique outcomes from the COVID-19 pandemic is that it turned a local teen into a nationally […]

From barcodes to beloved: The redemption of Ginger and Sweet Pea

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the vast expanse of America’s hinterlands, a harrowing tale unfolds. In a crowded feedlot in Bowie, Texas, they reduce horses to […]

County plans to buy 11 Warren Street

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON – The Columbia County Board of Supervisors approved the purchase of Hudson’s 11 Warren Street, approved paying the county’s share of Columbia-Greene Community College’s 2023-24 budget, […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Altamont Fair comes to town

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALTAMONT — What do racing pigs, a demolition derby, a circus and the American Motor Drome Wall of Death have in common? They […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: The seasons of our lives

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media To  summarize my thoughts, simply, I’m finding that seasons seem to come quicker, years add up faster and birthdays start to pile […]

EDITORIAL: Was ‘dignity’ involved?

This is our Summer Double Issue. We do it every year, so our next print issue will come out August 31. By PARRY TEASDALE THE WOMAN LEFT HER CAR DOOR […]

Once again Hudson’s Sankofa Black Arts and Cultural Fest enlivens city

The annual Hudson Sankofa Black Arts and Cultural Festival was held on August 11 and 12. The parade and events at the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park on Saturday afternoon were [...]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Puppy

By NANCY JANE KERN DOGS HAVE SUCH A RELATIVELY SHORT LIFE that saying goodbye to one may come several times in one’s lifetime. About the only thing that offsets the […]

DA, college develop internship program

By STAFF HUDSON—The Columbia County District Attorney and Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC) collaborated for the first time this summer to create an internship program for three local students interested in […]

Friendship Festival returns next weekend

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The days of summer are dwindling and that means one thing in Ravena — the Friendship Festival is almost here! This […]

Ravena Fire hosts steak dinner, Aug. 18

RAVENA — The Ravena Fire Department will host a steak dinner on Friday, Aug. 18, from 4-7 p.m. Dinners are sold pre-order only. Purchase tickets by calling 518-756-2089. Meals can […]

Social Security Matters: Why is Social Security withholding my monthly payments?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I have been working since I started collecting Social Security when I turned 62. Last year I was apparently overpaid […]

Living on Purpose: God did that

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Within the unlimited amount of evidence to prove that God is real and the Creator of all things, there is no […]

Soft Paws: More dog first-aid kit tips

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media EXTRA EXTRA! All animals cared for by our CGHS/SPCA shelter will be FREE to adopt during the month of August! Continuing with […]

Positively Speaking: The three C’s

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media One of my favorite books is “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. The book has so many helpful […]

Portals to Heaven: Innocence

By Robert J. LaCosta For Capital Region Independent Media A recent family-and-friends baptism at church renewed an obvious and profound conclusion: babies aren’t influenced by the world. Besides her obvious […]

Whittling Away: Gardening

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media After all these years here in “upstate New York,” I have to admit to being ignorant to the monsoon season in this […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 10, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 8, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Molinaro: County post offices not targeted for closure at this time

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media LEEDS — A federal plan that would consolidate mail sorting centers is under consideration by the U.S. Postal Service that could lead to […]

Lawson Lake hosts county’s first-ever Recovery Picnic

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Lawson Lake on Saturday hosted Albany County’s first-ever Recovery Picnic. The event, the first of its kind in the area, […]

OBITUARIES: Van Keuren, Bower, Meyer, Mauro, Greenhouse, Turk, Gruber, Nastke

Elizabeth A. Van Keuren (1962 – 2023) CLAVERACK—Elizabeth Anne “Liz” Van Keuren, 61, passed away, Sunday, August 13, 2023, surrounded by her family at her home in Claverack. She was […]

Discovery Camp offers fun and learning for local kids

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Local youngsters spent four weeks this summer learning about everything from art to cooking to math. Approximately 280 students participated in […]

College & Military Corner

Madison Bell, of Greenville, was recently initiated into the honor society of Phi Kappa Phi. Earlton resident Lauryn Williams was one of 50 students with artwork displayed in SUNY Oneonta’s [...]

District looks at impacts of artificial intelligence on education

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Technology is changing at a rapid pace — from Smartboards to distance learning platforms — that have changed the face of […]

OBITUARIES: Camarda, Barton, Johnson, diMonda, Horkan, Aluisio, Drake

Anna Camarda (1931 – 2023) OLD CHATHAM—Anna Camarda (nee Nicastro) passed peacefully in her sleep August 9, 2023 at the age of 91. Born September 3, 1931 in Palermo, Italy, […]

New Hudson superintendent has full support of board

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—The Hudson City School District Board of Education, at its meeting August 8, named Dr. Juliette Pennyman to be its next superintendent starting September 1. The vote […]

Kinderhook okays short rentals after long debate

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—The Village Board passed new regulations on short term rentals (STRs) at a special board meeting on July 31. According to Mayor Michael Abrams, this meeting was […]

RCS team practices gearing up

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The first day of school may be a couple of weeks away still, but team practices for RCS athletes is gearing […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Fonda championship battle

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media It has all come down to just six points for the Fonda Speedway Amsterdam Truck Center Modified Track Championship as Demetrios Drellos […]

For some, it’s time to inhale

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—If you have been wondering when you would be able to buy cannabis products locally—wonder no more. You may soon get your chance at an upcoming Cannabis […]

‘The Horses of Unbridled’: A gallery exhibit to remember

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media As the curator of the highly anticipated “The Horses of Unbridled” exhibition in The Gallery at CITIOT in Catskill, I stand amidst […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Cornwallville woman charged with fraud, grand larceny

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CORNWALLVILLE — A Cornwallville woman is charged with grand larceny and fraud related to transactions she allegedly made at two car service centers, […]

WWII historical gem in our backyard

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — There is a historical gem just minutes from Ravena that can bring the experiences of American sailors to life — the […]

Social Security Matters: I’m a veteran. How do I get my extra Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: As a military veteran, I was told that the final amount of my Social Security should be a little higher […]

Living on Purpose: Are we dedicated to accomplishing His will?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media We might as well lay all the cards on the table and establish that it’s easier to go to church and […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: True story

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Under the category of knowledge is power, I offer this column in the hopes that not another single person has to ever […]

Positively Speaking: Victories can be deceiving

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Many of us have dreams and aspirations. The path toward these goals can often bring us into a fierce struggle. After much […]

Whittling Away: Designer ‘genes’

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media There’s a basic difference between men and women and it’s not what you might think.  Men tend to be content with things […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 3, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 1, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Would House budget cuts derail Amtrak?

By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON—To paraphrase Johnny Cash, will we still hear the lonesome train whistle in the future? In 2022 the Amtrak station in Hudson was the third busiest […]

EDITORIAL: Summer issue’s back

By PARRY TEASDALE WE NEED A VACATION. How about you? It’s not because there isn’t work to do. In our case it’s news of one sort or another, especially with […]

All aboard!

It was a busy day at the Amtrak Station in Hudson on Monday, August 7. The trains were sold out and the weekend CSX derailment caused many delays. Photo by [...]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A weedy summer

By NANCY JANE KERN WE ARE WELL into our summer season, with fall not far away. Most of the birds have nested and their offspring are now foraging for themselves. […]

Tesla driver identified after fiery double fatal

By DIANE VALDEN LIVINGSTON—Victor Caraballo, 45, of Clifton Park has been identified by State Police as the driver of a Tesla involved in a fiery fatal motor vehicle crash into […]

GOOD NEWS!: Holcim, community pull together for Sr. Projects

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — When Senior Projects of Ravena found itself in need of a new vehicle, the organization put out the call, and the […]

Molinaro to host open house at Greene County office

LEEDS — U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro, R-19, will be hosting an open house at his Greene County office this Friday. The event is open to the public and will give […]

OBITUARIES: Heins, Truran, McFarland, Aldrich, Garber, Petrie, Schultz

Suzanne M. Heins (1953 – 2023) VALATIE—Suzanne “Sue” Marie Heins, 69, of Valatie passed away July 31, 2023. She was born in Portsmouth, VA, to Theodore and Lillian Mae (Russell) […]

New ICC super ‘eager to leverage… leadership skills’

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—The Ichabod Crane Board of Education held their first meeting of the 2023-24 school year on July 11. It was also the first Board of Education meeting […]

Lebanon Valley Speedway legend Tremont to retire

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON –You do not need to be an auto racing enthusiast to have heard the name Kenny Tremont, Jr. The winningest and most popular driver […]

Hinchey launches back-to-school drive

CATSKILL — To help families in need prepare for the upcoming school year, state Sen. Michelle Hinchey’s office is partnering with the Hudson/Catskill Housing Coalition and the Back to School […]

National Night Out: Fostering strong bonds and neighborhood solidarity

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media DELMAR — Hundreds turned out at Elm Avenue Park last Tuesday for the annual National Night Out festivities. National Night Out is an […]

Soaring with eagles

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media FREEHOLD – Ever wonder what it would be like to soar with eagles? Glider pilots don’t have to wonder… they already know. Gliders […]

DOT unveils plans for new 9W bridge

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — The state on Thursday unveiled plans for a new bridge to be built on Route 9W over the train tracks in […]

Farm bill: what are we hoping for?

(The second of two parts) By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—If there is one thing on which all of those concerned with local agriculture can agree it is that farming here […]

APA chicken BBQ, Aug. 24

ALCOVE — The Alcove Preservation Association is sponsoring its annual Take-Out Chicken BBQ on Thursday, Aug. 24, from 4 p.m. until sold out at the Ravena Grange on state Route […]

REVIEW: The Adirondack Theater Festival is back in full swing with ‘Tuning In’

GLENS FALLS — The Adirondack Theater Festival, informally known as ATF, has returned to its iconic blackbox in Glens Falls, New York. The summer theater is about to stage the […]

Disc golf may be coming to town park

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — A disc golf course may be in Greenville’s future. Local resident Jasan LaSasso is a member of the Capital Region Disc […]

It costs how much?

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—Many in the crowd of residents who showed up at the July 20 board meeting gave the board a piece of their minds about how town money […]

EDITORIAL: You call this news?

By PARRY TEASDALE THE CAT WENT PUNK. It was something sticky on his fur just above his tail. Clumps of his fur stood up the way kids do to freak […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

ANOTHER VOICE: Local news is good for business

By DEAN RIDINGS CEO, America’s Newspapers IT’S NO SECRET that recent years have been tough on small businesses and on newspapers. A bipartisan bill, the Community News & Small Business […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Dragonflies

By Nancy Jane Kern MOM! There are dragonflies mating on your back! My poor mother turned around in the water with a startled look over her shoulder along with most […]

Canaan moves toward separating clerk and tax collector jobs

By PETER FLIERL CANAAN – The Canaan Town Board met on Monday, June 11 with a full house of local residents drawn by proposals to separate the functions and duties […]

DOT to host open house on 9W bridge project at HS

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The New York State Department of Transportation will host a public open house on Thursday evening, Aug. 3, to discuss plans to replace the Route 9W bridge over […]

Soft Paws: First-aid kit for dogs

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media A number of years ago, Laura Manchester trained her Chok Dee dog with me. What started out as a baseline training and […]

Gathering honors county’s bravest as group turns 98

The 98th Annual Columbia County Volunteer Firefighters Association (CCVFA) Convention was held in Ghent. There was a meeting on July 28 with the parade and events on July 29. At [...]

Body, Mind & Spirig: Focusing on wellness: Acceptance, compassion and hope

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media That title might sound a bit of an overstatement of the obvious. Of course everyone wants to be well. But focusing on […]

Social Security Matters: When should my wife claim her Social Security benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife turns 65 in November of 2023. She was born on Nov. 21, 1958. I am a year younger […]

Living on Purpose: Life is an ongoing transformation process

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I was at my daughter’s home a few years ago doing some painting and yes, these are things that retired fathers […]

Positively Speaking: Determined to persevere

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media On the road to accomplish your dream, you’re going to have plenty of opportunities to give up. You may have to try […]

Whittling Away: In the kitchen

Today I whipped up a batch of muffins. No one would believe that I had produced these fat, warm little beauties, in fact I was accused of trying to steal […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 27, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 25, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Susan M. Weisenburn

SOUTH BETHLEHEM – Susan M. Weisenburn, 89, passed away on Friday morning, July 28, 2023, at Delmar Center after a long illness. Sue was born in Albany on Aug. 3, […]

College & Military Corner

Madison Bell, of Greenville, was recently initiated into the honor society of Phi Kappa Phi. Earlton resident Lauryn Williams was one of 50 students with artwork displayed in SUNY Oneonta’s [...]

Central Hudson looking for 16% electricity rate increase

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media The utility company Central Hudson is looking for a 16% increase in the residential electricity rate and a 19% increase for natural gas. […]

Man shoots self in leg, crashes into van

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson City Police Department received a call from Columbia County 911 reporting a male subject shot himself in the leg and then got into an automobile accident […]

New Lebanon Town Board meeting continued

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – Because of space considerations in last week’s issue (July 20), the report on the July 11 New Lebanon Town Board meeting had to […]

Outdoor classrooms construction underway

GREENVILLE — Last year the Board of Education approved the construction of three outdoor classroom spaces with funds from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA). The legislation […]

New team name, mascot narrowed down to three

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — What will be RCS’s new team name and mascot? The “Indians” name is in the process of being retired after the […]

GOOD NEWS!: Kids — and their animals — strut their stuff

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — From ducks to alpacas to thousand-pound cows, kids from around the area showed off their agricultural know-how at the annual Greene […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Four first-time winners          

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Sitting in the Fonda Speedway stands as long as I have over the years, I have seen many first-time winners, but Saturday […]

OBITUARIES: Molinski, Thimmayya, Schwed, Hunter, Walthour, Stoner, O’Connell, Mochrie

Adele M. Molinski (1934 – 2023) CHURCHTOWN—Adele “Tuppi” Molinski passed away peacefully surrounded by her family July 29, 2023. She was 89 years old. She is survived by: her husband […]

Town hall repair project draws few public comments

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council held an informal public hearing July 27 to gauge the community’s position on repairing the town hall building, […]

Rapid Care still closed in Copake, staff sought

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—All five Roe Jan area towns have now joined the effort to get Columbia Memorial Health’s Copake Rapid Care facility at 283 Mountain View Road, reopened. The […]

$1.5 trillion 2023 farm bill: Part 1 – What’s covered?

By DEBORAH E. LANS CHATHAM—On July 7 dozens of farmers and other concerned citizens met with Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-19th) to discuss the soon-to-be proposed 2023 Farm Bill. The bill […]

Through the Woods: Jack in the pulpit

By NANCY JANE KERN WHAT A UNIQUE PLANT that entertained children and intrigued adults for years. My mother loved taking us small children for walks through the fields and woods […]

Local Music Review: Emily Duff Band

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE EMILY DUFF BAND closed out the spring/summer portion of the Roots and Shoots concerts series at the Spencertown Academy of Arts, Saturday, July 8. The […]

Elementary, middle school to get free meals for all

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Three of the RCS district’s four schools qualified for a federal program that provides free breakfasts and lunches to all students […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

County’s busy agenda includes pleas for vetoes

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—The Columbia County Board of Supervisors accepted opioid settlement funds, adopted a Limited English Proficiency Plan, and—by divided vote—urged Governor Hochul to veto a law requiring local […]

EDITORIAL: It’s a pickle

By PARRY TEASDALE THWOCK… THWOCK… THWOCK… tickety tick, tick tick. What could that be but the sound of pickleball players enjoying the sport? It’s something like Ping-Pong played with bigger […]

Horses of Unbridled: Stalwart Member: The founding member of Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the bustling world of horse racing, where profits often overshadow compassion, Stalwart Member emerged as an emblem of integrity and the […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 20, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 18, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Social Security Matters: Will WEP and GPO affect my wife’s spousal benefit?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  My wife worked for the U.S. Postal Service in New York for about 22 years, and then in the private […]

Living on Purpose: A divided heart lives in deception

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I’m reminded again of the quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald, “You do not write because you want to say something; you […]

Body, Mind & Spirit Connections: Guy in the kitchen

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media I came from a large family of female cooks starting with my grandma, mom and aunties, who whipped up magic in the […]

Positively Speaking: Those who came before

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Take a trip down memory lane to when we were kids. Everything was fresh and new. We watched the world in awe […]

Whittling Away: Siblings

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I had the great good fortune to have started life as an only child. This blissful condition lasted for two years, during […]

Former Chamber CEO pleads guilty to grand larceny

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Former President and CEO of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, Jeffrey Hunt was convicted by guilty plea in Columbia County Court July 12 for stealing funds […]

Storage shed issues re-visited in New Lebanon

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – To store or not to store, that is the question in front of the New Lebanon Town Board. There is currently a moratorium […]

Traveling farm makes Mosher Park stop

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A traveling farm made a stop at Mosher Park last Monday and kids lined up to meet the animals. The event […]

UPDATE: Missing Philmont teen found and ‘in good health’

PHILMONT — New York State Police announced Wednesday evening that missing teen Alexianna Bridgham, 14, was found and is “in good health,” according to a statement from state police. Bridgham, […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Community to celebrate Oak Hill Day

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media Plans are coming together for the annual Oak Hill Day, this year on Saturday, July 29.  The day is intended to […]

GOOD NEWS!: Mosher Park Pool: 50 years of family fun

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Families have been making memories at the Mosher Park Pool for more than five decades. And even before that, what is […]

OBITUARIES: Collins, Schultheis, Ponkos, Wildermuth, Alberts, Igleburger, Gardner, Schroeder, Maben, Pugliese, Oder

Michael G. Collins (1960 – 2023) NORTH ADAMS, MA—Michael G. Collins of North Adams, MA, passed away July 12, 2023. Born in Hudson December 20, 1960, he was the son […]

OBITUARIES: Marcy, Shapiro, DeCrosta, DeForest, Cummings, Auld

Louise J.J. Marcy (1939 – 2023) CHATHAM—Louise Joyce (Jackson) Marcy, 83, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours July 16, 2023 at the Layton Compound, where she resided with […]

Potter Hollow School House Day: Education and fun for 4th graders

Just before the end of the school year, the annual Potter Hollow School House Day was a resounding success, with over 70 enthusiastic fourth graders from Scott M. Ellis Elementary […]

County’s youth fair opens Thursday

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — The Greene County Youth Fair will open this Thursday and runs through Sunday. The fair kicks off with the opening ceremony […]

Richard Koskey shows little sign of slowing down

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG CLAVERACK–“Helping businesses and individual succeed by offering advice has been the most rewarding part of my 60 years of serving as an accountant in this community,” said […]

Collins spearheads vehicle purchase for Senior Projects

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Senior Projects of Ravena delivers thousands of meals every year to homebound seniors in southern Albany County, but they can’t do […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Back on track

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Well, Chasin’ Racin’ lives on. We just had to take some time away, but we are doing much better and ready to […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Hecate submits third response to ORES notice

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Will the third time be the charm for a controversial colossal-sized solar facility to move forward here? Time will tell. Hecate Energy has submitted its third response […]

Unbridled: Rewriting the futures of forgotten horses

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media At 2 a.m., the gentle rumble of a diesel engine in the distance awakened the stillness of the early morning at Unbridled. […]

97-year-old WWII veteran: History must never be forgotten

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — Ralph Osterhoudt was one of the first 32 Americans to enter the gates of the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp and saw […]

Ghent Fire Company set to pass century mark

By GREGG BERNINGER THIS YEAR MARKS THE 100TH YEAR the Ghent Volunteer Fire Company has been protecting the community of which it has become an essential part. Those 100 years […]

Chick-fil-A opens at New Baltimore rest area

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — After a delayed opening, Chick-fil-A opened its doors at the newly renovated New Baltimore rest area on the New York […]

Social Security Matters: My state pension eliminated my Social Security survivor benefit

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My husband of 21 years died in January 2022 at the age of 70. We were both retired at the […]

Living on Purpose: Are you in love with God?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media The Almighty has the power to unlock all doors and break down every obstacle. We also believe He can do whatever […]

Positively Speaking: Bootstrapping

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media One of the prevailing messages in the United States is that anybody can pull themselves up by the bootstraps and create a […]

Whittling Away: Cleaning up

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The larder was getting low so I decided to do a major re-supply trip to the market.  Having the short-term memory of […]

Kids turn out for annual fishing derby

COEYMANS — Families turned out for the annual fishing derby hosted by the R.C. Sportsmen’s Club. The fishing derby, held every June, is now in its 44th year. Held at […]

Obituary: I. Todd Smith

NEW BALTIMORE – Irving Todd Smith, 69, passed away on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in his recliner at home in Hannacroix. Todd was born in Albany on Dec. 8, 1953, […]

Real Estate Rundown: Are you thinking about investing in an Air BnB?

By Debra Danner For Capital Region Independent Media Airbnb has become a popular platform for property owners to generate income by renting out their homes or apartments. While Airbnb investments […]

GOOD NEWS!: Former columnist, volunteer Norma June: A life of service

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — Over more than 50 years of service, Norma June left an indelible mark on her community and last Saturday the community […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Turtle adventures

By NANCY JANE KERN YEARS AGO, I FOUND a magnificent common snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina, on a dirt road. It lay there in the sun sort of sprawled out, possibly […]

GOOD NEWS: Eagle Scout project restores, preserves local cemetery

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The town’s newest prospective Eagle Scout has taken the Greenville Cemetery under his wing to restore and clean up the grounds. […]

Callanan Industries celebrates 140 years

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — Callanan Industries got its start at a quarry in Selkirk and 140 years later has grown to include sites across much […]

Two dead, alleged drunk driver charged

By DIANE VALDEN CLAVERACK—A mother and father were killed and their child injured during a head-on, two-vehicle crash, July 4 at 7:05 p.m. A Ghent man faces multiple charges including […]

OBITUARIES: Simon, Shattenkirk, Boseman, Hoefer

By STAFF Bradley F. Simon (1971 – 2023) ALBANY—Bradley F. Simon, 51, of New Lebanon passed away peacefully at St. Peter’s Hospital with his family and friends at his side, […]

Friends honor Hudson artist with memorial

By DAVID LEE HUDSON – The 19th Century Hudson River landscape painters were captivated by the views from the hills around Hudson. Perhaps the most renowned of them, Fredric E. […]

Hundreds in town for NYS championship bike race

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The RCS school campus hosts a major summer bike race each July, but this year there was a new twist to […]

RCS sports registration begins July 21

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The summer just started, but for those student-athletes planning to compete on the field this fall, registration starts as early as Friday, July 21. Registration for varsity and […]

Two cats die in River Road blaze

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GLENMONT — Two cats died when a fire broke out in a Glenmont home, according to Bethlehem Police. The fire, at a home […]

Our population is shrinking; does it matter?

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT—It’s happening worldwide. From 1950 to 2021 the birth rate declined 81% in China, 63% in India and 52% in the United States, as reflected in […]

Hull-O Farms gets state designation as historic business

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media DURHAM — A local farm that has been run by the same family for 237 years has received designation as part of the […]

French moth finds our trees très tasty

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—What’s that crunching noise? If it’s not your dog gnawing on a biscuit, it may well be a bunch of spongy moth caterpillars munching on your trees. […]

Boats dress up for watery occasion

CANAAN—The sun set on another Queechy Lake Club Boat Parade, Saturday, July 1. Following is the list of winners for 2023: *Best Overall, DelGrosso family, Wastin’ Away Again in Queechyville […]

OBITUARIES: Monterosso, Ransford, Germann

By STAFF Rebecca J. Monterosso (1983 – 2023) EAST NASSAU – Rebecca Jean “Becky” Monterosso, 40, died in the arms of the angels Saturday, July 8, 2023 in New Scotland. […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Town cuts ribbon on $1.4 million park project

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Town officials cut the ribbon Tuesday on the renovated Riverfront Park at Coeymans Landing. The project came with a price tag […]

Village finds you gotta serve to somebody

By EMILIA TEASDALE CHATHAM—At the regular Village Board meeting on July 10 the board tabled a motion to put temporary pickleball lines on the tennis courts at Jones Avenue. The […]

EDITORIAL: Why Troy matters

By PARRY TEASDALE THIS WEEK WE’RE PUBLISHING a letter from six regional officeholders. It’s addressed to State Attorney General Letitia James. It’s printed next to this column. It’s not long. […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Pet medicine

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media To experience the unconditional love of a pet during trying times is to know a connection to another living creature that is […]

Social Security Matters: Why can’t I collect survivor benefits from my deceased wife?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am a 62-year-old widower that is still working full-time. While my late spouse was in hospice, I was able […]

Living on Purpose: Preventing seeds of unforgiveness to germinate

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media How much grace does it take to love our enemies? That’s a good question. Tragedies occur all around us and it’s […]

Be A Better Gardener: Green Amendments for the Generations

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media Back in late April, I attended an Earth Day celebration where I met a thoroughly remarkable woman, Maya K. van Rossum. Today, […]

Positively Speaking: What you ask of life

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Have you ever read this old yet poignant poem by Jessie B. Rittenhouse? “I bargained with life for a penny, And life […]

Whittling Away: Puttering

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Puttering around is an art form that as a fairly new senior citizen I’m trying to fully understand and participate in. It […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 6, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 4, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Iris McCabe Cochrane

DURHAM – Iris McCabe Cochrane, 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at her residence. Born in Brooklyn on July 22, 1933, she was a daughter of the […]

Obituary: Charles Golding

SELKIRK – Charles Golding, 88, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, July 6, 2023. Charles was born in Bennington, Vermont, on Feb. 4, 1935, a son of the […]

Ravena Cement Plant rebrands to join Holcim US family

RAVENA – State and local elected officials, members of the Southern Albany County business community, and area residents recently joined the Ravena cement plant’s leaders and workers to celebrate the […]

Experience the rhythm: Music festivals in Greene County this summer

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Summer is the season of music festivals, where enthusiasts gather to immerse themselves in the vibrant beats, captivating melodies, and exhilarating performances. Nestled […]

OBITUARIES: Hotaling, Kritzman, Olah, Ogden, Evangelista, Kline, Madison

By STAFF Blanche H. Hotaling (1938 – 2023) ALBANY—Blanche H. Hotaling, 84, of Hudson passed away into the arms of the Lord, Monday, July 3 at Albany Medical Center. Her […]

Body found floating in river

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A woman’s body was found Tuesday floating in the Hudson River in Selkirk. The body was seen floating in the river […]

New Lebanon CSD seniors celebrate a rite of passage

By DOUG LaROCQUE NEW LEBANON – The 32 members of the New Lebanon Class of 2023 began their final day as high school students on Friday, June 23, with a […]

Youth fair gearing up for 69th celebration of kids and agriculture

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — For decades, each July the region’s children have gathered to showcase their talents and agricultural know-how in the annual Greene County […]

Town mulling farm animal law

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town is expected to revise a proposed law prohibiting farm animals and fowl in some areas of the town. Proposed […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: ‘Oh beautiful for spacious skies…’

By NANCY JANE KERN THE SONG “AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL” was a combination of a church hymn by organist Samuel A. Ward with later new lyrics from a poem by Katherine […]

Free Digital Seminar for Local Businesses July 19

Capital Region Independent Media hosts digital seminar for local businesses to help them connect with customers online. UPCOMING EVENT: DIGITAL SEMINAR, JULY 19, 2023 Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2023Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm […]

Police investigate fatal crash in which car struck house

By DIANE VALDEN LIVINGSTON—State Police from the Livingston barracks are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a house which occurred June 29. At 1 a.m., troopers were dispatched by […]

OBITUARIES: James, Goetz, Colligan, Giglio

By STAFF Evelyn H. James (1924 – 2023) ALBANY—Evelyn H. James, 98, of Rensselaer, formerly of Copake, passed away peacefully June 28, 2023 at St. Peter’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. […]

Gardeners visit budding arboretum

By STAFF GERMANTOWN—The Germantown Garden Club will visit the Greene Bee Greenhouse, a nursery and budding arboretum, in Cornwallville, Tuesday, July 11. The tour includes an opportunity to explore the […]

Bliss to mark 50 years as new plans evolve

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—Fiftieth anniversary recognitions and future development plans highlighted the Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) Board of Commissioners meeting June 26. The HHA runs the 135-unit income-restricted Bliss Towers […]

Revolutionary War veteran honored

By DAVID LEE PEOPLE FAMILIAR WITH THE BY-WAYS around Chatham may know Birge Hill Road as it curves, rises and descends in a rough parallel to the Taconic State Parkway […]

LOCAL HISTORY: Austerlitz remembers Reamer’s Spencertown store

By THOMAS MORELAND, Austerlitz Town Historian FROM 1973 TO 2001 TOM AND CAROLE REAMER ran the Spencertown County Store in the heart of the hamlet. On June 11 the Austerlitz […]

LOCAL MUSIC REVIEW: Guy Davis

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY SPORTING A SOFT-BRIMMED HAT, open neck shirt, floral patterned vest and slacks in warm tones of brown, maroon, blue and red, blues musician-songwriter-singer Guy Davis played […]

Mosher Park pool to mark 50th anniversary

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Mosher Park Pool opened its doors last month and returned to a full schedule June 26. The pool will mark […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Beaver dam bursts, New Lebanon floods

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NEW LEBANON – The most important thing to note is no one was hurt when a beaver dam in the Pittsfield Forest in neighboring Massachusetts broke […]

EDITORIAL: Notes on the 4th

By PARRY TEASDALE HOW ABOUT A FEW autobiographical notes on a sunny July 4th afternoon? Note 1: Skip anything that looks like notes. This is (mostly) about a well known […]

Humane Society seeks help in animal cruelty case

Warning: Graphic images HUDSON — The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) is asking for the public’s help in identifying two dogs that were victims of animal cruelty. CGHS/SPCA are looking for […]

Library’s summer reading program gets off to a sweet start

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The RCS Community Library’s summer reading program got off to a sweet start last weekend with an ice cream social. Every […]

Social Security Matters: Income taxes on Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: I just started receiving my Social Security in February of 2023. I am also working part-time at a company 24 […]

Living on Purpose: Taking a moment to share my life and appreciation

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media For those of you that read this column, I hope the insights and considerations are worth your time. I have political […]

Be A Better Gardener: Veganic gardening: An introduction

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media No doubt it is my status as an enthusiastic omnivore, but I only recently became aware of the veganic gardening movement. I […]

Soft Paws: Advice on man’s best friend

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media At running the risk of this column seeming disjointed, I’m putting some spontaneous musings and observations: Whew. Guess that’s enough for today! […]

Body, Mind & Spirit: Developing a healthier relationship with food

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media We very much strive to live in the present. We often focus on the present moment until… we don’t. A “to do list […]

Portals to Heaven: Avoiding life’s greatest tragedy

By Robert J. LaCosta For Capital Region Independent Media “If God seems distant, guess who moved?”  This old saying could be putting its finger on background noise. An analogy, or […]

Positively Speaking: Paying tribute to my father

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Father’s Day has already passed, but I wanted to share with you a letter that my father, Gary W. Moore, the founder […]

Whittling Away: Nemesis

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I grew up outside of Malone in upstate New York between North Bangor and Westville.  Our little farm was a mile or […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – June 29, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – June 27, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

The secret gardens of Coeymans revealed

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — What lies behind the fences and tall walls of your neighbors? Area residents had the chance to find out during the […]

Summer concert series: Get ready to party

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Summer is here and that means the annual concert series is getting ready to rock and roll. The series of concerts […]

Last respects paid to fallen firefighter

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—Ancram firefighter Stewart G. Hunt was laid to rest in Ancram Union Cemetery following a full firematic funeral from the Peck and Peck Funeral Home and Our […]

OBITUARIES: Baksa, Anasta, Russo, Proper, Rogers, Hyne, Lasher, Rouse, Dickerson, Faxon

By STAFF Robert Baksa (1938 – 2023) HUDSON—Born in New York City February 7, 1938, he died in Hudson, June 24, 2023 following a short illness. As one of America’s […]

Greenville man charged with sexual abuse of a child

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE – A Greenville man was arrested and charged with sexual abuse of a child in the town of Chestertown. Ashton Thompson, 20, […]

County salutes Old Glory for Independence Day

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media EAST DURHAM — Hundreds turned out to salute America for its 247th birthday. This year’s Independence Day was celebrated a couple of days […]

BOCES adds 6% for long list of services

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG GHENT—Questar III BOCES has tentatively budgeted $96,169,062 for the 2023-24 school year, which runs from July 1 this year through June 30 next year. This is $5.3 […]

Officials: Fixing town hall could cost up to $1M

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Engineers have excavated portions of the town hall building to identify the source of mold that is growing in the structure […]

Interns work at DA’s office over summer

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—At its full board meeting June 14 the Columbia County Board of Supervisors authorized the County District Attorney (DA) to accept a grant of $14,280 from Columbia-Greene […]

Young scientists pursue research in G’town class

By DEBORAH E. LANS GERMANTOWN—The infiltration of microplastics in the Hudson River Watershed. The effect of diet on ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). The use of Transdirect Current Stimulation for […]

What you need to know about ticks

By Deborah E. Lans For Capital Region Independent Media There aren’t many reasons to dislike spring and summer, but ticks are one. The blacklegged tick, aka deer tick, becomes active […]

Police blotter

Editor’s note: A charge is not a conviction. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges can be amended or dismissed. STATE POLICE

Volunteer Day set to help those hit by flood

By STAFF LEBANON SPRINGS–Tomorrow Saturday, July 1 volunteers and community members are gathering to help neighbors clean up their yards from the silt, stones and debris left behind from the flooding […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Those cute little fawns

By NANCY JANE KERN THIS IS THE SEASON of birth and some of our cutest new babies are the offspring of our Virginia white-tailed deer. Fall is the mating season […]

New Lebanon declares emergency due to flooding

By STAFF The Town of New Lebanon has issued the following State of Emergency and Local Emergency Order: Please take notice that the Supervisor has had to declare a State […]

Is the odd man out yet?

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—When should local voters cast their ballots? Currently some local elections take place on odd-numbered years. But the state legislature thinks those elections should be held only […]

Graduates accept diplomas with a roof to keep them dry

All of the school districts in Columbia County held their graduation ceremonies Friday, June 23. Some had to move inside due to the rainy weather while Ichabod Crane Central School [...]

EDITORIAL: What can we say?

By PARRY TEASDALE YOU CAN IMAGINE STEWART HUNT whether you knew him or not. I imagine he smiled a lot. Liked to help other people. It makes sense that he […]

Bethlehem Police equipped with body-worn cameras

BETHLEHEM — On June 19, the Bethlehem Police Department completed phase one of a large-scale project that has equipped officers in the town of Bethlehem with body-worn cameras. The body-worn […]

Horses of Unbridled: Queen and Town: A chronicle of resilience, redemption and responsibility

Queen of the Bayou and Town on Fire are two Thoroughbred mares gracing the pastures of the Sanctuary at Unbridled. They radiate with beauty and vitality. Their soulful eyes invite […]

Social Security Matters: Working widow seeks to maximize Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I was widowed years ago and, when I approached age 60, I looked into Social Security survivor benefits based on […]

Living on Purpose: Will the return of Christ interfere with your plans?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Henry Allan “Harry” Ironside was a Canadian-American Bible teacher, preacher, theologian, pastor and author who pastored Moody Church in Chicago from […]

Back to Better Health: Get grounded!

By Dr. Elizabeth Boomhower For Capital Region Independent Media Our bodies are electrical systems. From the way our nerves fire, our heart beats, and our muscles contract, it all comes […]