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‘Pin-up’ dogs featured on new bulletin board

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—If you are dog living in Ancram and you have no license, now is the time to get one. You’ll probably need some help from your human. […]

Silence is the sound of fear among local immigrants

First in a series By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–In November, when The Columbia Paper first decided to write about our local immigrant population, our primary goal was to speak to […]

Sara Black joins Hudson Housing Authority board

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–An additional commissioner and planned additional land highlighted the Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) Board of Commissioners meeting January 21. The HHA runs the 135-unit income-restricted Bliss Tower […]

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

Bethlehem State of Town eyes four key issues

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — Four key issues were the focus of the annual State of the Town address delivered by Bethlehem Town Supervisor David VanLuven […]

Whittling Away: Doctors’ offices

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media As I age gracefully and mature into the full bloom of senior adulthood, I find that my circle of friends and acquaintances […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: The Cheritrees, Part II

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media I ended the last Oak Hill and Vicinity column by saying next I would share the story of the Cheritree familyduring […]

Volunteer forum looks to get younger students involved in community

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — How can the community get younger people — and some of the youngest students — more involved in their community? That […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 30, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 29, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Perfect Ski Conditions Draw Crowds to Catamount

PHOTOS BY DAVID LEE Capital Region Independent MediaFebruary 1, 2025 The weather was fine for skiing on Saturday and the crowds were out at Catamount. It was not too warm […]

Ice hockey at Copake Memorial Park January 25, 2025

PHOTOS BY DAVID LEE Capital Region Independent MediaJanuary 25, 2025 The ice was hard and the competition fierce for this pick-up hockey game between friends on the skating rink at […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: What lives in an old barn?

By NANCY JANE KERN A BARN IS expected to house animals like cows, sheep or horses. Animals are protected by their combined heat in winter, a roof that gives shade […]

EDITORIAL: The LOCAL Act: A Win-Win for Main Streets and Local Newsrooms

THE EMPIRE STATE LOCAL NEWS COALITION SMALL BUSINESSES ARE the heartbeat of our communities. They are the corner stores, family-owned restaurants, and local service providers that fuel our neighborhoods, create […]

Local movie house hosts screening of Burns film

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE MILLERTON MOVIEHOUSE hosted a special screening of the film “Millers in Marriage” written and directed by Edward Burns, Saturday, December 21. The film had its […]

Donnelly releases 2025 budget message

By Town Supervisor Stephen Donnelly EDITOR’S NOTE: Town Supervisor Stephen Donnelly released the annual budget message for the town. Below is his message in its entirety. It is the duty […]

Hinchey sets priorities for this year

By Deborah E. Lans For Capital Region Independent Media It’s a new year, and state legislators have set their priorities for the coming months. State Sen. Michelle Hinchey, D-41, represents […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Feb. 6, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun, participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, fingerplays, stories and movement activities. Early literacy activities are emphasized. […]

The Ruins at Sassafras Museum: A creative restoration of Shaker history and spirit

By MARLENE McTIGUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON—On a winding road up Mount Lebanon a remarkable piece of history has been brought back to life with flair, imagination, and […]

Germantown man killed in head-on crash

By DIANE VALDEN RED HOOK—Village of Red Hook Police patrols were dispatched by Dutchess County 911 for a report of a two-car head-on crash on State Route 9G just south […]

Forum eyes cellphone ban in schools

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Should cellphones and other internet-connected devices be allowed in schools? In response to a state proposal to ban the devices in […]

Officials consider merits of Fast NY grant

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS—The town of Coeymans has been awarded $17 million through New York state’s Fast NY-Track program to enhance electrical infrastructure and support shovel-ready […]

The Retired Investor: Food prices are climbing again

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Eggs, fruit, vegetables, chocolate, cereal, and all kinds of protein—wherever you look—prices are rising faster at grocery stores than anyone may have […]

Positively Speaking: Walt Disney

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Many people feel they can’t have the life they want because of their past limitations or failures. Maybe your family wasn’t there […]

Wrestlers honor seniors on their night

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS wrestling team honored its graduating seniors on Senior Night during a tri-meet against Lansingburgh and Maple Hill. This year’s […]

Spartan Strong News: Capital project update

GREENVILLE — Significant progress has been made on the capital project since the district’s last update in November. The project remains on track for completion in September of this year.  […]

Living on Purpose: God’s love is waiting for our love

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media No matter what the negative naysayers declare about the absence of the love of God, do not allow these dark imaginations […]

Social Security Matters: When to claim Social Security and taxation of benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am 65 and currently working full-time. Can I apply for and start receiving my Social Security benefit? I’d expect […]

Our local legislators set their priorities for this year

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–It’s a new year, and The Columbia Paper spoke with local representatives in Albany about their legislative goals for the year. Agriculture, affordable housing, the environment […]

VIDEO: Interview with Kurt Angle

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Ravens score season high but it’s not enough

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The boys’ basketball team scored a season high Monday against Troy but it wasn’t enough. The Ravens put 60 points on […]

Clermont looks at Livingstons’ history with slavery

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE CLERMONT STATE Historic Site is hosting a special exhibit “Redefining The Family: The Livingstons and the Institution of Slavery in Early America,” for the next […]

New Leb Board says build or return the money

By DOUG La ROCQUE NEW LEBANON–That was the not-so-subtle message the New Lebanon Town Board sent to the firm that once sought to build a non-for-profit wellness pharmacy at 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

Horses of Unbridled: Valentine’s Day ledger: Racing’s debt to a dark brown mare

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the early morning hours at Unbridled Sanctuary, when the world is still quiet and the frost makes diamonds of the grass, […]

RCS launches new superintendent search

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Board of Education launched its search for a new superintendent at its Jan. 22 meeting. The board announced in […]

Whittling Away: Snacks

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I paused the other day during my mid-morning energy booster time, and had a little ponder about my snack.  It occurred to […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Snowflakes

By NANCY JANE KERN “Nature is full of genius, full of the divinity; so that not a snowflake escapes its fashioning hand.” –Henry David Thoreau LAST NIGHT THE DAMP CHILL […]

Wanted man surrenders at Livingston barracks

By DIANE VALDEN LIVINGSTON—Wanted man William M. Metz, 34, of Claverack turned himself in at the State Police Livingston barracks January 18. Investigators charged Mr. Metz with first degree gang […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Cheritrees in Oak Hill

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media After the Dewitts, the Cheritrees are arguably the most prominent early family in Oak Hill and yet little has been published […]

District mulls budget, tax cap for 2025-26 school year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — While the numbers are preliminary and not yet finalized, the RCS school district may be looking at a tax cap in […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 23, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 22, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Report: First local ICE raid alleged in Cairo

By Deborah E. Lans Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — An alleged early morning worksite raid in the Greene County town of Cairo on Jan. 28 resulted in the detention […]

Salvatore announces candidacy for county sheriff

ELECTION 2025 GHENT–Undersheriff Jackie Salvatore, a Hudson native with over 30 distinguished years of law enforcement leadership, announces her candidacy for Columbia County Sheriff. With a proven record of innovation, […]

Canaan has a full house at organizational meeting

By PETER FLIERL CANAAN–The 2025 organizational meeting of the Canaan Town Board on January 13, presided over by Supervisor Brenda Adams, began with a public hearing on Public Law No. […]

County Housing Task Force meets

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Demographic trends, whom to focus on housing for, and proposed state housing assistance programs highlighted the Columbia County Housing Task Force meeting January 9. Task Force leader […]

Ice boaters sail down frosty Hudson River

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ATHENS — With temperatures hovering around freezing, it’s a great time to head out on the water, right? That’s what dozens of ice […]

Soft Paws: Displaced pets during disasters

By Guest Columnist Aaron Clause For Capital Region Independent Media Charlene put out an APB to me regarding the need for readiness and preparation in the wake of the animal […]

HS FIRST team wins Motivate Award

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS High School FIRST Tech Challenge Team won the Motivate Award and took 17th out of 26 at the qualifier tournament in Utica. The team’s autonomous score […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Jan. 30, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, and movement activities. Early literacy activities are emphasized. No registration […]

Greenville to host Relay for Life

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The Greenville Faculty Association from the school district will host the 2025 Relay for Life walkathon for Greene and Columbia counties. […]

Hillsdale’s sewer will get repairs with help from state grants

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY HILLSDALE–At its monthly meeting on Tuesday, January 14, the Town Board approved spending $4,000 to conduct a boundary survey at 2728 US 23, site of the […]

Ravena Grange’s ‘Words for Thirds’ campaign celebrates 20 years

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena Grange celebrated a significant milestone last week, marking the 20th year of its “Words for Thirds” campaign. The initiative, […]

The Retired Investor: Economic growth versus government efficiency

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media We grew up with tales of $500 toilet seats and bridges to nowhere when describing the abuses of government spending. In a […]

Positively Speaking: Eight days a week

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Sometimes, life feels so busy I dream of having one more day in the week. How great would that be? Eight days […]

Child care update: An innovative solution hits a wall

By DEBORAH E. LANS CRARYVILLE–As birth rates and school enrollment decline in Columbia County, school closures have occurred and school consolidation becomes a greater possibility. At Taconic Hills Central School […]

Legislators introduce LOCAL Act to support small business advertising in local media

State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblymember Jen Lunsford, with support from the Empire State Local News Coalition, introduced legislation to establish a new tax credit for small businesses that advertise […]

Acomb takes 1st place in Schenectady Invitational

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Jayden Acomb took first place in the 131-pound weight class in the annual Schenectady Invitational. Acomb defeated five straight opponents, from […]

Living on Purpose: Making God’s will our highest priority

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Are you confident that God is watching you, listening to your words, and searching your heart during times of difficulty or […]

Social Security Matters: Investing Social Security money in the stock market?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  For most folks collecting Social Security, you get back what you put in within three to five years, so for […]

RCS inches past LaSalle to become Colonial Council champions

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Ravens inched past the LaSalle Cadets in a dual meet 36-34 to become the Colonial Council champions. Coming up […]

RCS Athletic Hall of Fame inducts 15

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The gym stands were packed Saturday afternoon as the RCS Athletic Hall of Fame inducted 15 former athletes into its Class […]

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

Whittling Away: Typical winter day

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The recent cold weather would probably be the main topic of conversation if I could find someone to discuss it with. Everyone […]

Forum: Uniting and empowering the community through volunteerism

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district invites everyone in the community to a public forum on volunteerism on Monday, Jan. 27, at the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School library. In partnership with […]

Supporters rally to Crocco’s defense

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—What started out as a proposal to replace Planning Board Chairman Joe Crocco turned into a substantial show of support in favor of his reappointment. At the […]

Be A Better Gardener: New developments in biostimulants

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve been gardening for more than half a century, long enough to be skeptical about the latest horticultural miracle cures. Generally, I […]

‘Understanding Herman’ exhibit opens at RCS Community Library

RAVENA – “Understanding Herman,” an evocative photography exhibit by journalist and photographer Marlene McTigue, is now on display at the RCS Community Library. Presented by Old-School Naturalist, the exhibit runs […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 16, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 15, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Horses of UNBRIDLED

Horses of UNBRIDLED With Susan Kayne

THROUGH THE WOODS: Those *$%#! squirrels

By NANCY JANE KERN ABOUT THIRTY-FIVE years ago we were hard at work in our labs in Schenectady when all the generators kicked in and we knew there was a […]

School Board appoints new Chatham Public Library director

CHATHAM–The Chatham Board of Education has appointed Hanna Bachrach as Chatham Public Library’s new director. Following a months-long search, the board made Ms. Bachrach’s appointment official at its January 7 […]

Chatham and Ichabod Crane football programs combine

By EMILIA TEASDALE KINDERHOOK—The Ichabod Crane Central School District and the Chatham Central School District will be combining their football programs into a single, shared program starting in the fall […]

Human skeletal remains identified as missing man

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police Chief Mishanda Franklin announced that skeletal remains found in the City of Hudson the morning of December 9 were identified as those of Robert J. […]

Tague still in running for Stefanik’s seat

By Patsy Nicosia Capital Region Independent Media With the presidential inauguration earlier this week, the biggest question in the 21st Congressional District remains who will be the local representative in […]

Obituary: Ethel Mae Covenhoven Johannesen

Ethel (Skip) Mae Covenhoven Johannesen entered into eternal life on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at 98 years. She was a lifelong resident of Greene County, and a graduate of Greenville […]

Horses of Unbridled: ‘The Art of US’: Where photography meets purpose

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the historic Hannay Community Room of Westerlo Public Library, a powerful narrative unfolds through the lens of photographer Ron Klein. This […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Jan. 23, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun, participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, fingerplays, stories and movement activities. Early literacy activities are emphasized. […]

Ravena Knights of Columbus hold National Spaghetti Day Supper

RAVENA – The Knights of Columbus of Ravena, NY – Mother McAuley Council 3424 – held its first National Spaghetti Day supper in January. The Knights of Columbus held a […]

Rotary scholar’s Peace Boat journey brings global issues home

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Liana Lekocevic, the recipient of an inaugural Greenville Rotary Club scholarship in 2024, recently returned from a transformative journey aboard the […]

The Retired Investor: IRS boosts incentives for savers in 2025 but not nearly enough

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Saving for retirement will get a little more attractive next year. Given the dire state of savings in this country, anything that […]

Positively Speaking: The coral castle

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve always been a person who loves to travel. Over the years, I’ve taken dozens of road trips, spanning almost every state. […]

Girls’ basketball wins big at home

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The girls’ basketball team had a big win at home Saturday afternoon right before the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The […]

Boys’ hoops fall short 59-49 on home court

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS boys’ basketball team fell to the Ichabod Crane Riders by a score of 59-49 Saturday afternoon. The team played […]

Living on Purpose: Becoming what God knew you could be

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media A brand-new year is here and I’m excited to see what the Lord has for us! Keeping Christ at the center […]

Social Security Matters: I use only VA health care — can I get back Medicare taxes paid?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I’m 72 years old with 20 years of military service. I am retired collecting Social Security, my military pension, and […]

Kinderhook Town reorganizes for 2025

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—The Kinderhook Town board held its organizational meeting and first meeting of 2025 on January 6. The board made several appointments to committees during the organizational meeting, […]

County board ends the year with pay and term increases

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors raised the salaries of several county personnel, lengthened the terms of Election Commissioners, and appointed individuals to various county and organizational […]

Housing news: A first, grants and more

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–Columbia County greeted the new year with positive steps toward addressing the affordable housing crisis that it, like most of the nation, faces. The county became […]

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

Aging With Grace: Dreaming

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media “Dreaming”: There are so many possibilities inherent in this eight-letter word. I might conjure up something that I greatly fantasized about when […]

Eagle Scout project puts food scraps to good use

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK – The town of Bethlehem officially opened its new food scraps composting shed at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in December, marking a significant […]

Whittling Away: Sidekicks

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was sitting quietly the other day having a pleasant little ponder, something I try to fit into my busy schedule daily. […]

Hecate is back with a new solar facility application

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—After having its original permit application for a 60 megawatt (MW) solar facility denied in February 2024, Hecate Energy is back with another application, this one for […]

County celebrates Hanukkah with public menorah lighting

HUDSON—Columbia County’s public menorah lighting Sunday, December 29 was a vibrant and memorable celebration, marking the community’s enduring Jewish pride and the spirit of Hanukkah, according to a press release. […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Eastern screech-owl

By NANCY JANE KERN OUR EASTERN SCREECH-0WL is an adorable little bird, about 7-10” long, and easy to overlook. I was driving past a frozen marsh a few years ago […]

DEC lifts drought watch statewide

GHENT—The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) updated drought conditions across the state, returning all 62 New York counties to “Normal” status, January 3. Back in November Columbia […]

Build it and they will walk in New Lebanon

By PETER FLIERL NEW LEBANON–Town Supervisor Tistrya Houghtling and Don Adams from Creighton Manning led the first of two public hearings on proposed sidewalks on the north and south side […]

DiNapoli releases report on nonprofit industry

ALBANY — State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli released a report that showed nonprofit organizations in 2022 provided 1.3 million jobs to New Yorkers, just over 1 in 6 private sector […]

Unbridled: 50 birthdays, all under one roof

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WESTERLO — January 1 was a big day at Unbridled Sanctuary — all 50 or so Thoroughbreds who call Unbridled home celebrated their […]

Soft Paws: Service dogs versus emotional support animals

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media We are so grateful for the selfless acts of giving on behalf of our companion animals at the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA. Our […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 9, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 8, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors Wm. J. Cox in Coeymans Hollow […]

RCS: New platform to ease communication

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — New technology changes are coming to the RCS Central School District. At the board of education’s Jan. 8 meeting, District Superintendent […]

Search is on for community’s Top 5ive Changemakers

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The contributions of local individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations that make our community thrive are countless, from those helping to feed […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Hometown Heroes Banner program

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media The town of Durham is proud to announce the start of the Hometown Heroes Banner program recognizing servicemen and servicewomen from […]

CCL hosts talk on climate change and farmers

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY HUDSON–The NY Greater Capital Region chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby sponsored “How Do Local Farmers Regard Climate Change?” at the Hudson Area Library on Wednesday, December […]

Now in Hudson: Oxford House, a model for recovery

By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–There are 4,400 Oxford Houses in the U.S. and one opened in November 2024 in Hudson. The houses follow a model that provides safe and supportive […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Jan. 16, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun, participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, fingerplays, stories and movement activities. Early literacy activities are emphasized. […]

Arts & Entertainment: The Ruins at Sassafras Museum: A creative restoration of Shaker history and spirit

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON — On a winding road up Mount Lebanon in New Lebanon, Columbia County, a remarkable piece of history has been brought […]

The Retired Investor: The billionaire Trump team

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Recently, billionaire Stephen Feinberg of the private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management was selected to fill the number two spot at the […]

Positively Speaking: A New Year’s victory

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media After their stunning victory on Christmas morning in 1776, General George Washington and his army held Trenton, aware that the British would […]

RCS, Greenville join forces for merged swim, dive teams

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS and Greenville high schools have joined forces to merge into the RCSG Swimming and Diving Team. The merger enables students […]

Two dozen teams compete in annual Jamie Mormile Tournament

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — More than two dozen teams and their fans crowded into the two gymnasiums at RCS High School last weekend for the […]

Living on Purpose: Understanding why Jesus came to earth

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media The author of this story is unknown and it has been told by many people throughout the years. The gentleman to […]

Social Security Matters: Can my wife claim her SS now and get half my benefit later? 

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife will reach her full Social Security benefit at 66.5 years of age, which is just under two years […]

Hudson Housing Authority scales down construction vision

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) and its redevelopment partners are working on a modified proposal for building new housing, according to a diagram of the latest idea […]

Two board chair appointments put on hold

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—The Town Board decided not to reappoint the chairmen of town’s Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals at its 2025 organizational meeting, January 2. All […]

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

Gospel concert to support Pittsfield church’s ‘Feed Thy Neighbor’ food program  

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Since its start six years ago, Pittsfield-based Price Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church’s Feed Thy Neighbor food program continues to package and deliver over 400 meals each Saturday to […]

MY VIEW: Newspapers reach strongest supporters of growth

By PETER W. WAGNER, publisher, nwestiowa.com MANY OF TODAY’S metro newspapers are facing serious circulation problems they created for themselves. Owned and managed by profit conscious investment groups, most large […]

County unveils initiatives to combat opioid crisis

ALBANY — Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy and the Albany County Legislature last week announced the county is investing over $1.5 million in opioid settlement funds into a series […]

Whittling Away: A poetic day in winter

By Dick Brooks Capital Region Independent Media I awoke to find that the weatherman had sprinkled an inch or so of fluff over my backyard and yes, I’m holding him […]

Search is on for community’s Top 5ive Changemakers

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The contributions of local individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations that make our community thrive are countless, from those helping to feed […]

Aging With Grace: Finally, identifying what YOU love

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Spoiler alert… you’re going to be left in some thoughtful contemplation as you read this.  Just the concept of this topic put […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – January 2, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – January 1, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

County board approves replacement of Stuyvesant bridge

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors voted to proceed with replacing the historic one-lane Stuyvesant Falls Bridge with a two-lane structure, by submitting the construction plan to […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The geese are flying

By NANCY JANE KERN IT HAS BEEN A WARM FALL and it is late this year to look for ducks and geese passing through our area on their way south. If […]

Deal struck to keep some Big Lots stores

By DOUG LAROCQUE NYVT Media GREENVILLE–Big Lots, Inc., has announced an agreement to sell hundreds of its stores to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners of Boston, enabling the transfer of between […]

City man charged with rape of a child

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police arrested Michael A. Davey, 39, of Hudson on six separate counts of first degree rape (a child less than 11 years old), a class B […]

Austerlitz Town Board looks forward at December meeting

By PETER FLIERL AUSTERLITZ–Supervisor Robert Lagonia opened the monthly meeting of the Austerlitz Town Board December 19, noting the coming availability of balloon pictures of the proposed new Verizon cell […]

Village receives funds for water treatment

By EMILIA TEASDALEVALATIE—At their December 10 meeting, the Village Board passed a motion to hire Weston & Sampson Architects as consultant for the design of a new PFAS treatment facility […]

Event: History of Golden Age radio

RAVENA — On Sunday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will present its first 2025 program. Join in as speaker Ron Gabriele relates the program, “The […]

Obituary: Stanley Ernest McCafferty

GREENVILLE – Stanley Ernest McCafferty, 77, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, to be with his Lord Jesus, surrounded by his family, following a courageous […]

Soft Paws: A love of all God’s creatures

By Guest Columnist Aaron Clause For Capital Region Independent Media As anyone who tunes in regularly to Charlene Marchand’s Soft Paws column is well aware, it is quite obvious, from […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Jan. 9, from 4-5 p.m. The library will supply materials and ideas for kids to unwind and get creative after school. There is no specific project or goal; instead, […]

Ravens take 2nd place in Lewis Johnson Memorial Duals

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Ravens took second place in the annual Lewis Johnson Memorial Duals on their home mat, and Aiden Forster won […]

The Retired Investor: Trump’s 21st century mercantilism

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media January 20th is just around the corner. It is Day One in the tariff wars that our next president is intent on […]

Positively Speaking: A truce

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media During the first Christmas of World War I, something extraordinary happened. Amid the mud, barbed wire, and endless gunfire of the Western […]

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

It’s time for New Year’s resolutions

By Catherine M. Oliverio For Capital Region Independent Media So, what is your New Year’s resolution? There are so many to choose from. The most common resolution is to lose […]

Living on Purpose: Are we dedicating or hesitating?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I attempt to keep my eyes and ears open to learn about the Holy Spirit and human behavior. In my spiritual […]

Social Security Matters: Can I get survivor benefits while still working?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I lost my wife several years ago and I qualified for Social Security spousal benefits. Unfortunately, because of my income, […]

Author hopes to bring 8th president into the spotlight

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 marked the 242nd birthday of President Martin Van Buren, a Kinderhook native and lifetime resident. The Friends of Lindenwald, the estate purchased by […]

YMCA polar plunge: Come on in, the water’s fine

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media EARLTON — It’s January, the temperature is a toasty 27 degrees and there’s ice floating in the water — it’s the perfect time […]

Tierra Farm spearheads hurricane relief effort

By MELANIE LEKOCEVIC Capital Region Independent Media VALATIE—When Hurricane Helene struck the Southeast in late September, countless families, communities and businesses were devastated. One local company has done its part […]

Bethlehem: Setting the standard for conservation in the Capital District

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM – In a bold step toward environmental sustainability and climate resilience, the town of Bethlehem is establishing itself as a leader in […]

Horses of Unbridled: A thousand years of grace: The New Year’s tradition we need to talk about

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media As the world celebrates the dawn of 2025 with champagne and fireworks, a quiet ceremony of a different kind unfolds at Unbridled […]

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 2023.  I remember as a small child […]

Home for the holidays? Eviction assistance programs

By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–Evictions in the county shot up post-pandemic, along with the dramatic rise in rental and homeownership costs and the consequent unaffordability of housing for many residents. […]

Grant to help rebuild Alcove chimney capital

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALCOVE — Since 1848, the chimney that soars above the Valley Paper Mill Park just off Route 143 in Alcove has stood sentry […]

Obituary: Patrick F. Fallon

Patrick F. Fallon, 86 years old, most recently of Greenville, NY, was born in Dublin, Ireland, and passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his loved […]

Aging with Grace: Our ‘children’ by marriage

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Honestly, using the suffix, “in-law” was never appealing to me after I was married. I know, I know, it was the common […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Saturday, Jan. 4, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join in for the library’s Saturday Fun for Families monthly event. This month, participants will learn how animals adjust to the winter season. The […]

Tierra Farm spearheads hurricane relief effort

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media VALATIE — When Hurricane Helene struck the Southeast in late September, countless families, communities and businesses were devastated. One local company has done […]

Top stories countdown of 2024

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media As 2024 winds down to a close, it’s time to take a look back and see what some of the top issues and […]

Top stories countdown of 2024

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media As 2024 winds down to a close, it’s time to take a look back and see what some of the top issues and […]

Whittling Away: Guilt

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media There are just some things that you do in life that you’re not proud of, things that live in your consciousness and […]

Social Security Matters: Have I saved Social Security money by claiming at 62?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I had to start collecting Social Security at 62, and I am 75 now. I believe that in the last […]

VIDEO: The Columbia Paper Journalism Fund supported through the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation

Click here to visit the Columbia Paper Journalism Fund. The Columbia Paper Journalism Fund The fund supports local reporting on education, economic development, the arts, the environment and health care, […]

Spending holidays with the herd

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — As 2024 comes to a close, Unbridled Sanctuary honored its sponsors, volunteers and others who serve the horses in its care […]

Barr: Hurricane Helene leaves trail of tragedy in western North Carolina

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media The small mountain communities of western North Carolina are still reeling in the wake of Hurricane Helene, a storm being called a “1,000-year […]

Living on Purpose: Things are not always the way they seem

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media For many years I’ve had the privilege to visit those in jails, prisons, hospitals, recovery centers and nursing homes, as I […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – December 19, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – December 18, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Video of inmate beating death prompts sharp rebuke from all

By Doug LaRocque NYVT Media The reaction to the release of a video of the beating death of 43-year-old state prison inmate Robert Brooks at the hands of prison guards […]

Holiday events December 2024

The annual Winter Walk parade in the Village of Valatie breezed down Main Street on December 14 under an almost full moon. Santa Claus is always the star. Photo by [...]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Christmas cookie time

By NANCY JANE KERN SOME YEARS AGO I received a shiny new KitchenAid stand mixer for Christmas, arriving in plenty of time to make Christmas cookies (I think this gift […]

Human skeletal remains not yet identified

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Hudson Police still await DNA testing results on the human skeletal remains found in the city the morning of December 9, Hudson Police Chief Mishanda Franklin told […]

The Samascott Farm lands: Committed to farming in perpetuity

By DEBORAH E. LANS KINDERHOOK–The Samascott family began farming in Columbia County four generations and more than 100 years ago. Through a transaction that closed in November, the family committed […]

How smart are smart meters?

PHILMONT—Drop by and learn about smart meters, digital devices that measure electricity or gas usage and send the information to the energy supplier automatically, at an Open House at 113 […]

Thruway plane landing

By Doug LaRocque A small plane had made an emergency landing on the NYS Thruway near Albany’s exit 23. There were three people on board but state police say none […]

Arts & Entertainment: Brandon Graving: A visionary artist shaping the boundaries of printmaking

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media Brandon Graving, a master printmaker and sculptor, has spent decades redefining the boundaries of traditional art forms, creating works that are as visually […]

Whittling Away: One-stop shopping

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Winter’s just about here. After consulting the two weather experts that I trust—The Old Farmer’s Almanac and the woolly bear caterpillar—I decided […]

RCS superintendent’s contract won’t be renewed

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Board of Education announced on its website that District Superintendent Dr. Brian Bailey’s contract has concluded and will not […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – December 12, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – December 11, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

County passes a $179.9M budget with 2.9% tax levy increase

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors adopted the county’s budget for 2025 at its full board meeting December 11. The budget appropriates $179.9 million and calls for […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Not a creature was stirring…

By NANCY JANE KERN “TWAS THE NIGHT before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse.” Anyone who has lived in the country […]

VIDEO: Time capsule from 1887 opened in Cobleskill

Capital Region Independent Media’s Warren Dews Jr., representing the Times-Journal, joined this spectacular glimpse into history. If this video does not display properly, please click here to the original.

Spartan Strong News: Winter weather and safety reminders

By District Superintendent Michael Bennett For Capital Region Independent Media As winter approaches, I wanted to provide a reminder of winter weather practices, as well as an update on our […]

When three became one: Historical society looks at RCS consolidation

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — What is now commonplace in the local area — the RCS acronym for the school district — was once a hotly […]

Aging with Grace: The gift of ‘presence’

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Old habits die hard, especially at the holidays. Gift giving is definitely something that has become a comfortable tradition. But what if… […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Dec. 19, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun, participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, fingerplays, stories and movement activities. Early literacy activities are emphasized. […]

Spartan Strong News: Everyday Hero award

GREENVILLE — The Everyday Hero award will be given to one student in every grade at the elementary school each month. These students exemplify expected and positive behaviors at school; […]

Ravens win tri-meet as wrestling season gets underway

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Ravens took to the mat again as the 2024-25 wrestling season got underway. The team faced off against Tamarac […]

The Retired Investor: The future of weight loss

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media More than 40% of Americans are now classified as obese while 75% of adults are either overweight or obese. A new group […]

Positively Speaking: Dream of holidays

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media As the holiday season heats up and the smell of roasted turkey and pumpkin pie fills the air, it’s easy to get […]

Survey crew discovers human remains in Hudson

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—The morning of December 9 at 11:18 a.m. the Hudson Police Department (HPD) received a call transferred from the New York State Police reporting that a survey […]

Town Board holds last meeting of year, hears from local rescue squad

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—The Kinderhook Town Board heard presentations about the local rescue squad, well water testing for residents, the upcoming public meeting on the Comprehensive Plan update and 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. STATE POLICE