Three Tall Persian Women is a comedic and touching play is about generational differences, grief, control, and learning to let go; but more than anything, it’s a love letter to immigrant mothers. Golnar, a punkish Iranian-American millennial, returns home to her mother Nasrin for the anniversary of her father’s passing and walks into hoards of family memorabilia that her grandmother Mamani has moved in with her. Get Shakespeare & Co tickets here.

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Molinaro and Riley run for 19th Congressional District

2024 ELECTION BAR By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY GHENT–The 2024 general election for the recently reconfigured 19th Congressional District is a rematch of the 2022 midterm open seat election when the […]

November’s ballot proposition 1: New York’s ERA

ELECTION 2024 By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–There is only one proposition on the all the county’s ballots this November: a state constitutional amendment that would broaden equality protections in New […]

EDITORIAL: Capital Region Independent Media advocates for local journalism in Washington

By MARLENE MCTIGUE Capital Region Independent Media WASHINGTON DC–At a crucial moment for local journalism, Warren Dews Jr., publisher and vice president of Capital Region Independent Media, visited the nation’s […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Fall mushrooms

By NANCY JANE KERN ONE OF OUR 1950s neighbors had an Italian father-in-law who collected and ate wild mushrooms. He had done this in his homeland and continued the practice […]

Girls’ soccer season at 8-2 after big win vs. Lansingburgh

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The girls’ varsity soccer team stands at an 8-2 record on the season after a big win on the road Friday […]

RCS comes up short against Fonda-Fultonville

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens lost a home game on the gridiron to the Fonda-Fultonville Valley Hawks 21-7 Friday night. On the first possession […]

Boys’ soccer drops a home game to Mohonasen

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens’ boys’ soccer team dropped a home game to Mohonasen on Wednesday. The 0-6 loss put the team’s record at […]

Horses of Unbridled: NY rescues, sanctuaries unite to lobby for equine protections

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In a powerful demonstration of unity, representatives from New York’s equine rescues and sanctuaries recently converged on Washington DC to advocate for […]

Event: Bronck Museum’s Heritage Craft Fair

COXSACKIE — On Sunday, Oct. 6, 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 […]

Thruway letter-writing campaign gains momentum

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—The Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk (RCS) community is rallying behind a grassroots letter-writing campaign to address escalating truck traffic, which continues to disrupt daily life along […]

Firefighters help fellow firefighters

MILAN—The Milan Volunteer Fire Department will hold a pancake breakfast at the Milan Town Hall, 20 Wilcox Circle off Route 199, half a mile west of the Taconic State Parkway, […]

Whittling Away: Cameras

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was going through my desk the other day and came across a packet of negatives. The long strips that had five […]

Bill signed into law for EMS reimbursement for treatment-in-place

By MELANIE LEKOCEVIC Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY—Legislation signed into law September 18 will reimburse EMS for providing treatment-in-place for patients with Medicaid coverage. The legislation was championed by state […]

Suspect intercepted allegedly on way to commit murder

By DIANE VALDEN GREENPORT—State Police responded to a Columbia County 911 broadcast for a man allegedly traveling though Columbia County with the intent to murder his estranged wife’s romantic partner, […]

Public weighs in on plans and history of Bliss site

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) should include something acknowledging the “long history” of “this neighborhood” when it redevelops its property, Reverend Edward Cross said during an open […]

New Lebanon votes to purchase former firehouse for community center

By DOUG LAROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–It was late last year when the former New Lebanon Town Board voted to enter into a contract with the Lebanon Valley […]

Interfaith Blessing of the Animals

HUDSON — The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA is hosting an interfaith blessing of the animals in honor of the feast of St. Francis (patron saint of all animals) on Sunday, Oct. […]

Walkers build awareness of high veteran suicide rates

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Each day, 22 veterans take their own lives. The statistics for active military servicemembers are just as grim — according to […]

Be A Better Gardener: For ‘peat’s’ sake

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media It must be 20 years since I first encountered arguments against the use of peat by gardeners. Their point was that peat […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 26, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – September 25, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Share your World War II stories with students

GREENVILLE — Kylie Conley, the MS/HS Library media specialist, is collaborating with English teachers Michael Morelli and Melissa Palmer to bring personal stories of World War II from community members […]

Library celebrates Banned Books Week with unique display

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—The week of Sept. 22-28 marked “Banned Books Week,” an annual event that underscores the importance of free and open access to information, […]

Soft Paws: If you care, leave them there

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media With the onset of good weather (finally), our properties are abuzz with deer grazing, birds and small mammals nest building, and hunts […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Have too much yarn, fabric or other craft supplies collecting dust and taking up space? Give your unused supplies a new […]

Capital Region Independent Media acquires Times-Journal in Cobleskill

COBLESKILL – Capital Region Independent Media (CRIM) is proud to welcome the Cobleskill Times-Journal into its family of newspapers. CRIM President Mark Vinciguerra announced the sale on Oct.1 The paper […]

PHOTO GALLERY: Homecoming 2024

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK – The RCS Ravens took to the field Friday night for the annual homecoming game and came away with a 42-8 win. At halftime, RCS honored all of the […]

The Retired Investor: Deals are coming back in some consumer areas

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Consumers have been bludgeoned for years by higher prices. In this era of inflation, discounts disappeared as prices of everyday items climbed […]

Positively Speaking: The staircase of Loretto

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all had those moments in life when we turn to prayer. Whether it’s a whispered plea in a crisis, a silent […]

Worse than death or divorce: The impact of incarceration on families

By DEBORAH E. LANS Sixth in a series GHENT–The effects of incarceration reach far beyond the incarcerated person, to his family and community. Even witnessing the arrest of a parent […]

Accidental lockdown, taxes dominate school board discussions

By DOUG LAROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–Following the monthly reports from school administrators at the Board of Education meeting on September 11, concern was expressed about a lack […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The power of the Sun

By NANCY JANE KERN THERE IS A LARGE MARSH not far from my house and I often go there throughout the seasons to see what is happening. The nights have […]

GOOD NEWS!: 18th annual Greenville Day lights up town park

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — By 2 p.m., a line of cars was waiting patiently to get into Vanderbilt Park on Saturday for the 18th annual […]

Morrissey appointed director of Special Education

BETHLEHEM — The Bethlehem Central School District’s Student Support Services Department, which includes special education, began the 2024-25 school year with some new faces, and some familiar faces in new […]

Living on Purpose: Loving God with all that we are

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media In Luke 10:27 and Mark 12:30, we notice that both passages use a fourfold description to explain how we are to […]

Social Security Matters: Should my husband file and then suspend his benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  My financial advisor used a computer program which told my husband to take his SS at age 68, then suspend […]

Ravens win blowout homecoming game 42-8

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens won a blowout 42-8 in Friday night’s homecoming game against the Broadalbin-Perth Patriots. The win brings the team’s season […]

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

Onesquethaw Reformed Church celebrates 200 years of faith and community

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media FEURA BUSH—The Onesquethaw Reformed Church marked a significant milestone on Sept. 14, as it celebrated its 200th anniversary with a day of worship, […]

Whittling Away: A hairy situation

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media An all-day rain put a crimp in the fun activities I had planned for today, mostly weed whacking and mowing.  Telly, my […]

New HHA plan could mean shorter buildings

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority’s (HHA) redevelopment partner acknowledged they could alleviate concerns about the cost of proposed new construction by lowering building heights, reducing the number of […]

LOCAL ART: ‘Native Prospects’ on view at Thomas Cole site

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE THOMAS COLE National Historic Site hosts the exhibit, “Native Prospects: Indigeneity and Landscape” in the New Studio. The exhibit is presented in partnership with the […]

ENTERTAINMENT: “What, Me Worry?” a dive into MAD Magazine’s legacy

By MARLENE McTIGUE THE “WHAT, ME WORRY?” exhibit at the Norman Rockwell Museum offers an insightful look into the irreverent world of MAD magazine, a publication that has been a […]

Hillsdale man dies in officer-involved shooting

By DIANE VALDEN SARATOGA SPRINGS—On September 11 at about 3 p.m., State Police in Troop K at SP Livingston received a call from concerned family members of James A. Dellea, […]

Ribbon is cut on Learning Garden Childcare Center

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media SLINGERLANDS — Community leaders, including U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko and Assemblywoman Pat Fahy, gathered recently to celebrate the opening of the Learning Garden […]

Capital Region Independent Media advocates for local journalism

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media At a crucial moment for local journalism, Warren Dews Jr., publisher and vice president of Capital Region Independent Media, visited the nation’s capital […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: The Burhans House in Cooksburg

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media It is sad to say goodbye to someone you have appreciated for years. That feeling can apply to houses as well […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Girls’ soccer takes first loss of the season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Schalmont Sabres snapped the RCS Ravens’ six-game winning streak Tuesday. After starting off the season unbeaten over the first six […]

Ballot Proposition 1: New York’s ERA

By Deborah E. Lans Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY—There is only one proposition on the ballot this November: a state constitutional amendment that would broaden equality protections in New York.  […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Sept. 26, 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. […]

County Supervisors designate September as Recovery Month

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Recent developments in Columbia County’s confronting substance abuse — both vaping and opioid — include funds from a lawsuit against Juul, two County proclamations, and abuse-discouraging education. […]

Event: GNH Lumber & Home to host contractor event featuring top industry suppliers

WINDHAM — GNH Lumber & Home will host a special contractor event on Friday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their Windham location. This exclusive event will […]

Voter registration efforts taking place across Capital Region

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—In a concentrated effort to ensure that every eligible voter is prepared for this year’s pivotal elections, the League of Women Voters (LWV) […]

The Retired Investor: Fewer babies threaten future U.S. economic growth

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media The fertility rate in the United States has fallen by 3% since 2022. That is a historic low and marks the second […]

Positively Speaking: Ode to coffee

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media When I was 15 or 16, I had some friends over for a sleepover, and we were determined to stay up all […]

Kinderhook solar plan expects cheaper power

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—The Kinderhook Town Board has agreed to work with Puresky Energy to have the town’s municipal building be part of the company’s community solar program. At the […]

New Lebanon votes to purchase former firehouse for community center

By DOUG LAROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–It was late last year when the former New Lebanon Town Board voted to enter into a contract with the Lebanon Valley […]

Greenville Day 2024 Festival comes to Vanderbilt Park

GREENVILLE — Looking for entertainment in September? Come to the 18th annual Greenville Day, a family-friendly outdoor gathering with games, rides, food, fun and fireworks on Sept. 27, from 4 […]

The Little Red Schoolhouse final open house Sept. 29

COEYMANS HOLLOW — The Little Red Schoolhouse Historical Society will hold its final all open house on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 2-4 pm. The schoolhouse is located on Route 143 […]

Living on Purpose: Good deeds are not a substitute for love

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I was reading an article the other day about how most people are confident that just being nice secures them a […]

Social Security Matters: Widow’s benefits vs. benefits from ex-spouse

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: In November I will be 60 and eligible for widow’s benefits. My late husband’s Social Security was approximately $2,300 when […]

College in prison continued: A no-brainer?

Fifth in a series By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–As Brian Fischer, former commissioner of the state’s Department of Corrections (DOC), says, virtually everyone incarcerated in a state facility will be […]

Ravens coast to win after big 1st quarter

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens coasted to a victory Friday night after scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter. The team was on the […]

Engineer to evaluate spur options for rail trail

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—The idea of creating a spur from the Harlem Valley Rail Trail to connect with the hamlet of Copake has been considered as part of a larger […]

Girls’ soccer makes it six in a row

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS girls’ soccer team made it six wins in a row Thursday in a season where they remain undefeated . […]

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: From forgotten fields to forever home: DiDi’s path to peace

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Day after day, in the heart of our community, Unbridled Sanctuary writes new chapters of rescue, recovery, and second chances for Thoroughbreds […]

Whittling Away: Aging

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media All in all, I’m pretty comfortable with myself and my life. I had the wisdom to pick a lovely, talented life partner […]

Bill signed into law for EMS reimbursement for treatment-in-place

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Legislation signed into law Sept. 18 will reimburse EMS for providing treatment-in-place for patients with Medicaid coverage. The legislation was championed […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Scent of Rain

By NANCY JANE KERN THIS SEASON IS AN AMAZING MIX of beauty and change. Something we rarely consider is one of our traditional senses, smell. Growing up, our farm families […]

ENTERTAINMENT: There are some new players in town

By DAVID LEE THERE IS A new theater group in the area. It is called the Columbia County Players Theatre. Its mission, to use the potent social tool of communal […]

LOCAL HISTORY: The political lift to create GCS

By THOMAS SHANNON THIS SEPTEMBER MARKS 100 years since students first attended Germantown Central School. The path to creating a centralized public high school in Germantown was a long one. […]

Do you know how to spot a scam?

WEST TAGHKANIC—Taghkanic Senior Network, a newly-formed committee for the Town of Taghkanic, presents NY FRAUD WATCH with Alexandria Douglas-Bartolone, MPA, sponsored by AARP Speaker’s Bureau, at the Taghkanic Firehouse, 631 […]

Staff voice concerns about patient care quality at CMH

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The CEO of Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) says, “We’re a center for excellence,” according to Robin Johnson, an operating room nurse at the hospital, at a meeting […]

Board approves C-GCC’s new budget with some increases

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON—The Columbia County Board of Supervisors approved the 2024-25 Columbia-Greene Community College (C-GCC) operating budget, at its monthly full board meeting August 14. The total budget for […]

First signs of colorful fall foliage emerging across upstate NY

New York state’s 2024 fall foliage season is underway, with the first signs of the spectacular seasonal colors to come appearing in several upstate New York regions. The Adirondacks, Catskills, […]

Mosher Park splash pad nears completion

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—Excitement continues to build in the village of Ravena as the long-anticipated splash pad at Mosher Park nears completion.  The project, championed by […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Girls’ soccer continues dominance with 5th straight win

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS varsity girls’ soccer team continued its dominance Tuesday with a 4-0 shutout over Troy. The Ravens headed out on […]

Man killed in fatal North Bethlehem crash

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — A 37-year-old man was killed in a single-vehicle crash in North Bethlehem early Wednesday morning, according to the Bethlehem Police Department. […]

Arts & Entertainment: History and quiet contemplation at America’s first Shaker settlement

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media It may surprise you to learn that just across from bustling Albany International Airport, tucked into a quiet, wooded corner there is a […]

NY’s largest offshore wind project components being built in Coeymans

Construction of foundation components reaches 50% completion milestone By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — New York state’s largest offshore wind project will be off the coast of […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Sept. 19 to Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Have too much yarn, fabric or other craft supplies collecting dust and taking up space? Give your unused […]

Early big-game hunting seasons are open

ALBANY — New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar announced the start of early hunting seasons for deer and bear in certain regions of New York state. […]

The Retired Investor: Precious metals normally fall in September

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media As one of the best-performing areas of the financial markets this year, gold and silver have been added to many investors’ portfolios. […]

Positively Speaking: What do you believe?

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I believe in the power of positivity, something my father instilled in me from a young age. He taught me that our […]

Girls’ volleyball comes up with third win of season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens’ girls’ volleyball team came up with their third win of the season in a home match Monday. RCS skated […]

Prisons: Schools for crime or schools for citizenship?

Fourth in a series By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–When the three-man debate team from Eastern New York Correctional Facility in the Catskills beat a team from Harvard in 2015, people […]

Panel decries employee issues at CMH

By Jeanette Wolfberg Capital Region Independent Media HUDSON—Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) employees explained their demands for higher wages and affordable health insurance, while depicting people leaving for higher paying jobs, […]

Living on Purpose: Your faithfulness and hard work is appreciated

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media As fall arrives, we thank God for our blessings and will soon see the return of colorful leaves on trees, football […]

Girls’ varsity soccer undefeated so far this season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS varsity girls’ soccer team is undefeated so far this season with a 4-0 record, and the team has only […]

Social Security Matters: Husband upset about his wife’s survivor benefit

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: This is a matter that I find particularly irksome. My wife – a retired teacher – was told that, should […]

Ravens defeat Riders in a rout 45-0

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Ravens defeated the Ichabod Crane Riders in a 45-0 rout on their home field Friday night. In front of […]

Officials push for changes to EMS reimbursement for treatment-in-place

By MELANIE LEKOCEVIC Capital Region Independent Media GREENPORT— Elected officials, EMS and other first responders are pushing for the governor to sign legislation that would reimburse emergency services for on-scene […]

RCS boys’ soccer takes 0-3 loss at home

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — In their first home game of the season Thursday, the RCS Ravens’ boys’ soccer team took a 0-3 loss against 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

Whittling Away: Bike riding

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Driving home the other day, I passed a couple of old poops on bicycles, no spandex outfits or fancy cycling shoes, shorts […]

Baron speaks at academy’s Book Festival

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY MARTIN BARON, RETIRED managing editor of the Washington Post (WP) newspaper, was among several authors hosted at the weekend long 19th Annual Book Festival, August 30 […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: West Winds

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media There is a new restaurant in Oak Hill and Vicinity, actually in Preston Hollow. It is in the well-loved building where […]

Local writer publishes first book

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media DURHAM — Greenville Pioneer columnist Pat Larsen has published her first book, a compilation of her monthly columns over the years. The book, […]

OUR VIEW: Higher taxpayer cost for lower reach

By Mark Vinciguerra Capital Region Independent Media It is an obligation for town leadership to provide the most cost-effective services for taxpayers as possible, but that is not happening in […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – September 5, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – September 4, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Greene remembers: County salutes the 9/11 fallen

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — It’s been 23 years since terrorist attacks toppled the two buildings of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, a […]

Soft Paws: The work of dog control officers

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media Each year, Aaron Clause, our CGHS/SPCA administrative assistant to our CEO Ron Perez, and I print a list of current dog control […]

Horse owners urged to vaccinate their animals against EEE, West Nile Virus

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Horse owners across New York are being urged to vaccinate their horses against two viruses that have been identified in the state. Eastern […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Sept. 12, 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. […]

New Leb moves ahead with the community center purchase

By DOUG LAROCQUE, Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–The town’s community center opened in December 2023 in the former Lebanon Vallery Protective Association (LVPA) firehouse on U.S. Route 20 at […]

Officials push for changes to EMS reimbursement for treatment-in-place

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media HUDSON — Elected officials, EMS and other first responders are pushing for the governor to sign legislation that would reimburse emergency services for […]

Students, teachers back in the classroom for a new school year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — They’re back at it again — students, teachers and staff were back in school beginning Thursday for the first day of […]

The Retired Investor: How the U.S. can manage its increasing debt load

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media U.S. deficits at $35.225 trillion are going through the roof and interest payments on our debt load account for an increasing share […]

Positively Speaking: Praise in public

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Few things sting as profoundly as the sharp edge of embarrassment. It’s the sinking feeling of all eyes on you for the […]

The show must go on: Downpour doesn’t stop dress parade

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CAIRO — A heavy and sustained downpour didn’t dampen spirits for the 136th annual dress parade last weekend hosted by the Greene County […]

Deputies rescue man from burning structure

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—A sleeping man likely owes his life to the actions of two Sheriff’s deputies, who woke him up and got him out of a burning building. According […]

County honors sports teams, approves STR management company

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors acted regarding high school sports achievements, short term rentals, 11 Warren Street, firefighting education, Columbia-Greene Community College (CGCC), and student loan […]

Living on Purpose: Investing our abilities into God’s kingdom

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media As a freelance faith columnist and Christian author, I’m honored to have the opportunity to provide thoughts and ideas to relay […]

Two arrested after public disturbance

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A disturbance on Main Street this weekend led to two arrests and a crowd of about 20 people who attempted to […]

Social Security Matters: Advice on when to claim Social Security

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I could use some advice on whether or not I should start collecting my Social Security benefits now. I am […]

RCS teams launch a new fall season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Local athletes took to the field and the court Thursday for the first time as the Ravens. The new team name […]

Climate news update: Youth grants, county projects and the Climate Carnival

By DEBORAH E. LANS CHATHAM–It is a truism that the effects of climate change will fall most heavily on the youth of today and tomorrow. Recognizing that there are young […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The hummers are still at war!

By NANCY JANE KERN Two male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in my yard fought over the sugar water feeder in May. The females do not have the red throat and are mostly […]

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

Bronck Museum hosts concert, Sept. 7

COXSACKIE — On Saturday, Sept. 7, the Bronck Museum will welcome LACE and Running the River band for musical performances in the Meadow Ridge Heritage Barn. LACE is an ever-evolving […]

Whittling Away: Moms

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Recently I had the pleasure of talking to a group of young folks and the subject of parental jobs came up and […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 29, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald –August 28, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Paul Czajka, 70, former DA and judge dies

By DIANE VALDEN NEW YORK CITY—Retired longtime Columbia County public servant Paul Czajka died Tuesday evening, September 3 at Columbia Presbyterian in New York City, where he had been hospitalized […]

Man, who allegedly fled, charged in domestic dispute

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—David A. Grant, Jr., 38, of State Route 23, Craryville was charged with criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, two counts of endangering the welfare of […]

New Lebanon CSD names interim superintendent

By DOUG LAROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–At a recent school board meeting, Christopher Harper was appointed the interim school superintendent, replacing Andrew Kourt, who is leaving September 1 […]

A tale of hooves and hope: Unbridled Sanctuary celebrates 20 years 

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Readers, This week’s column is extra special. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of US this year—Unbridled Sanctuary—I’m handing over the […]

School safety program expansion funded by ticket revenues

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM—Albany County Executive Dan McCoy held a press conference Thursday at Bethlehem High School, where he highlighted the ongoing success and future plans […]

RCS Community Library

Friday, Sept. 6, from 10:30-11:15 a.m. This gentle yoga class, taught by local instructor Kelley Curran of Well & Kell, is for folks ages 50 and up. No experience or […]

The Ravens: RCS starts school year with a new team name

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — This is the first week of a new school year and there are plenty of changes in store for students in […]

Obituary: Rodney H. Haley

GREENVILLE—Rodney H. Haley, 59, passed unexpectedly but peacefully at home on Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. Rodney loved his job as a chief lock operator for the NYS Canal Corp. He […]

The Retired Investor: Taxing Social Security benefits hurts seniors

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media In this election season of competing promises, one idea stands out as a good way of redistributing income from the haves to […]

Positively Speaking: The closer

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media When I was young I spent a lot of time at my dad’s office. He started as a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman. […]

Pinning ceremony honors Vietnam veterans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CATSKILL — It may be 50 years later, but the feelings today are as potent as they were decades ago for those who […]

Event: Roast beef dinner, Sept. 7

COEYMANS HOLLOW — The Ravena Grange will hold a roast beef dinner on Saturday, Sept. 7, from 4-6 p.m. The menu includes roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, cabbage kraut […]

Living on Purpose: Hearing is one thing, obeying is another

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Having the opportunity to be engaged in a constant dialogue with Christ is more than just a hope. It can happen […]

Social Security Matters: Retiree asks about his Social Security

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I retired with a (gross) $4,600 per month Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) annuity from the U.S. Postal Service in […]

CMH employees get down to the issues

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) employees explained their demands for higher wages and affordable health insurance, while depicting people leaving for more remunerative jobs, and temporary contractors replacing […]

County’s drug treatment court; an alternative to incarceration

Third in a series By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–Numerous studies have concluded that incarceration has little effect on crime in general and indeed may increase an individual’s risk of engaging […]

Aging with Grace: The gifts of aging

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Old age, I decided, is a gift. I am now, probably for the first time in my life, the person I have […]

Neighboring mayor: Infrastructure grants are out there

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — Has a nearby local community found the secret sauce to securing infrastructure funding? Neighboring Coxsackie has emerged as a model of […]

Whittling Away: Imagination

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Is there anything better than a large mug of coffee first thing in the morning? The Queen, who arises early, not requiring […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: Siebert’s Fair View farm in Medusa

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media I love the stories of the boarding houses in Oak Hill and Vicinity. I’ve told many of them, but there are […]

Preparing little ones for the journey ahead

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—As the new school year approaches, the RCS Community Library is taking creative steps to ensure that local children feel comfortable and excited […]

Be A Better Gardener: Invasive earthworms

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media Even before I started gardening as a teenager in my New York suburb, I had been taught to regard earthworms with an […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 22, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: The News-Herald article listed how Ernest L. Haight had given a “great deal for the public good”: One […]

Priest shortage forcing a new look at Catholic Masses

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE— A shortage of priests in the local diocese is forcing Catholic church leaders to take a fresh look at how to conduct […]

Soft Paws: Nutrition for dogs

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media A few years ago, a number of my colleagues attended a canine nutritional conference sponsored by the Ladies Kennel Club of Long […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Aug. 29, 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. […]

How the widow of a Civil War general helped build B-29 bombers in WWII

RAVENA—On Sunday, Sept. 15, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will present its first program of the fall season. Ron Gabriele will present a fascinating account of an […]

The Retired Investor: Presidents have a long history of Fed bashing

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Many on Wall Street are horrified that a presidential candidate might want to erode the independence of the Fed. Some have even […]

Positively Speaking: We don’t have forever

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I recently lost a close friend. His death was unexpected and came out of nowhere. Having known him since the fifth grade, […]

EDITORIAL: What Google’s monopoly ruling means for local newspapers

By DEAN RIDINGS, CEO | AMERICA’S NEWSPAPERS NOT THAT MANY years ago, the best way you could find out about businesses in town would be through your local newspaper. Your […]

Superintendent’s Message: Transportation challenges

By Superintendent Michael Bennett Greenville Central School District I wanted to make you aware of a challenge we’ve been facing and how it may impact the school year. Despite our […]

Living on Purpose: To the ones who stand out in a good way

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Have you ever known someone that you admired because of who they were? There is something special and refreshing to witness […]

Social Security Matters: Does some of my monthly payment include repayment of my contributions?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I have a question about my Social Security benefits. Would I be correct to assume that part of the monthly […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: When to harvest a field

By NANCY JANE KERN THIS WAS A HOT TOPIC GROWING UP and still is. Farmers must feed livestock and can only harvest in warm weather. Unfortunately, it is the same […]

GOOD NEWS!: From horse rides to bungee jumping, Friendship Festival doesn’t disappoint

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The annual Friendship Festival launched just after noon Saturday with a parade through the village and offered everything from puppies to […]

THEATER REVIEW: ‘The Islanders’ is a masterful production

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY CARY CRIM’S PLAY “The Islanders” is a poignant two-hander that poses the question: Can two broken people help each other heal? “The Islanders” receives its world […]

Fire officials aid families after devastating blaze

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Fire officials from three different organizations gave a helping hand to two local families who lost their home and everything […]

Be A Better Gardener: The dog days of summer are over

by Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media “The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.” We have reached the end of the dog days of […]

Whittling Away: Things I Don’t Know

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I have finally reached the age where I now realize how little I know.  The younger me was an expert in all […]

Obituary: Charlotte Guarini

Charlotte Guarini, age 83 years, of Coxsackie, NY, passed away on Aug. 7, 2024, at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson, N.Y. She was born on Oct. 13, 1940, in Norton Hill, […]

Friendship Festival to return to Mosher Park

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—The village of Ravena, the town of Coeymans, and numerous local businesses will come together on Saturday, Aug. 24, to host the annual […]

Soft Paws: Welcoming a new dog into your home

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media There are some messages that bear repeating, repeating, repeating, and here comes one of them. Those who know me well are acutely […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 15, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 14, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Motorcyclist killed in collision with tree

By DIANE VALDEN KINDERHOOK—A Schenectady County man was killed in a motorcycle crash off County Route 28 near Apple Tree Court August 11 at 5:16 p.m. A State Police investigation […]

Aging with Grace: Finding your own way to wellness

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media One of the key tools I often use to facilitate opening a dialogue between my clients and myself is determining the way […]

County unveils first fully renewable energy-powered highway garage

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS—Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy, along with County Comptroller Susan Rizzo and members of county Department of Public Works (DPW), officially unveiled the […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Aug. 22, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Just in time to help calm those first day of school jitters! Help acclimate your little one to their new commute by joining in […]

State has questions about funding gap for Bliss plan

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) has begun to receive feedback from the state on its proposed redevelopment plan and is looking for a housing consultant, HHA Executive […]

The Retired Investor: Labor unions could be the key to elections

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Over the past few years, labor unions have experienced a renaissance in interest and activity. As a result, unions have begun to […]

Hannacroix woman killed in fatal car crash

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A Hannacroix woman was killed Monday evening in a car crash on River Road in Selkirk. Colleen M. Selkirk, 60, of […]

Positively Speaking: Consistency

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Pursuing a dream can be very challenging. If you’re like most people, unless you have financial backing, you’re probably juggling a day […]

Short-term rentals, universal pre-K focus of Hinchey town hall

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CATSKILL — State Sen. Michelle Hinchey, D-41, held a town hall meeting this month at Subversive Malting & Brewing in Catskill. Hinchey has […]

Discovery Camp: The forces that move us

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA —Students from the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District’s (RCS) Summer Discovery Camp were treated recently to a unique hands-on STEM experience at Holcim […]

Living on Purpose: You are the caretaker of your mind

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media I read a book years ago by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale called, “The Amazing Results of Positive Thinking,” and I recommend […]

Social Security Matters: Will my wife get a spousal benefit from me?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty:  I will be turning 70 (yikes) this coming November. I will begin taking my Social Security benefit at that time. […]

Hecate still committed, but no application filed

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—In his August 10 update on the status of Hecate Energy’s controversial industrial-sized Shepherd’s Run Solar Project, Copake Supervisor Richard Wolf wondered why “the developer still has […]

Hudson’s mental health court: An exit ramp on the highway to prison

By DEBORAH E. LANS Second in a series HUDSON–This court feels different. The judge enters without pomp and opens the session by introducing herself and explaining some of what is […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Switchel

By NANCY JANE KERN EVERY ABLE-BODIED PERSON should have to work one day in a mid-August, old-time, blazing hot hay field. I thought I had it bad stacking hay bales […]

THEATER REVIEW: Mac-Haydn’s “All Shook Up” is a blast

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY IF YOU WANT to have rousing fun at the theater get over to the Mac-Haydn and see “All Shook Up” because the show is a blast. […]