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Discover RCS looking to take it to the next level

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Discover RCS program is looking to take its game — and the community — to the next level. The program […]

Living on Purpose: Living peaceably, grounded in godliness

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media With the Republican victory over the Democrats, many are reflecting on the direction of the United States. For the Trump side, […]

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

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I turned 64 in July and my wife turned 62 in August. My wife has not worked for approximately 15 […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The Big Oyster

By NANCY JANE KERN A FEW YEARS ago, I read “The Big Oyster: A Molluscular History of New York” by Mark Kurlansky and found it a wonderful, easy-to-read book with […]

Of homelessness and motels in this county and its neighbors

By DEBORAH E LANS HUDSON–What does it mean to be homeless in Columbia County? If you are not living on the streets, in a park or with relatives, it means […]

A visit to Prattsville: The Zadock Pratt Museum

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media PRATTSVILLE—Tucked into the northernmost peaks of the Catskills, in the far western corner of Greene County, lies the picturesque town of Prattsville, NY. […]

Ruck March honors veterans, supports local groups

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media VOORHEESVILLE — Voorheesville recently hosted the third annual Ruck March, drawing residents, veterans and supporters together to raise funds and gather supplies for […]

Whittling Away: Football

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s now officially autumn.  The signs are easy to spot even if you don’t have a calendar — leaves are falling, the […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – November 21, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – November 20, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Columbia County man charged in gun store burglary

COLONIE—A New Lebanon man was among four people arrested in connection with a burglary at a Colonie gun store last week. Colonie Police received a burglar alarm from New York […]

County works on Sanitary Code to meet challenges

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Columbia County is developing a Sanitary Code, the County Health Department announced at the Board of Supervisors Health and Human Services Committee meeting November 19, where Demba […]

GOOD NEWS!: Hundreds get free holiday meals during area’s first mass distribution event

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — The village of Coxsackie played host to the area’s first mass holiday food distribution event the weekend before Thanksgiving. Working in […]

Greene Columbia Community Organizations Active in Disaster appoints Max Sanchez chairman

HUDSON–Greene Columbia – Community Organizations Active in Disaster (GC-COAD) announces the appointment of a new chairperson who will lead its coalition to the next level in ongoing preparation for support […]

Who will run for Stefanik’s seat?

By DOUG LA ROCQUE NYVT Media GRANVILLE–It’s often said politics makes strange bedfellows, but when it comes to running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, it can […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: The clothesline

By NANCY JANE KERN IF YOU RIDE around the countryside nowadays something is missing, the clothesline. We didn’t think much about it; everyone used one. Old photographs of tenements in […]

Vine-cutting ceremony marks opening of Selkirk community forest

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — The town of Bethlehem recently celebrated the acquisition of its first-ever Community Forest with a vine-cutting ceremony. The event took place […]

Tips for a safe Thanksgiving feast

With Thanksgiving approaching, the New York State Departments of Health and Agriculture and Markets are providing food safety tips to help prevent foodborne illness and ensure a safe and enjoyable […]

Aging with Grace: Sunrise and sunset

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Basically, I’m a morning person. I love being outdoors early, attending to my plants, pruning, watering and admiring the landscape at 5 […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Nov. 28, to Friday, Nov. 29 The RCS Community Library will be closed for Thanksgiving recess. Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 10-11 a.m. Romp and Read will help get the […]

Hudson’s backpack program addresses food insecurity issues

By KAYLEE MILLER HUDSON–The Hudson City School District held a Board of Education meeting on Wednesday, November 6. Thomas Orbinski, the student representative on the board, spoke at the meeting. […]

Domestic violence: Ever-present but met with new resources

Ninth in a series about aspects of the justice system By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–As Hudson Chief of Police Mishanda Franklin says, “Domestic violence is always with us.” Both nationally […]

ENTERTAINMENT: Misty Blues returns to Spencertown Academy

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY MISTY BLUES, led by vocalist Gina Coleman, rocked out the capacity audience at Spencertown Academy Arts Center (SAAC), Saturday night, October 12. The program was produced […]

Pilot dies in plane crash, two dogs on board survive

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WINDHAM — The pilot of the small-engine plane that crashed in a remote location in Windham died from his injuries, according to the […]

GOOD NEWS!: Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family offers a season of thanks

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — No one should have to choose between paying rent and feeding their family a nutritious Thanksgiving meal. Capital Region Independent Media, […]

GOOD NEWS!: Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family offers a season of thanks

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — No one should have to choose between paying rent and feeding their family a nutritious Thanksgiving meal. Capital Region Independent Media, […]

The Retired Investor: Jailhouse stocks

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Investors appear to be “dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock” ever since the election of President-elect Donald Trump. Private prison stocks have roared […]

Positively Speaking: Marfa Lights

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Well, I know I said last week that my spooky series was done, but with many requests for one more, I said, […]

Three arrested on weapons charges in Coeymans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Three individuals were arrested and charged with illegal possession of a weapon on the Thruway in the town of Coeymans. State […]

Plane crashes in Windham

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WINDHAM — A plane crashed in a remote location of Windham on Sunday evening. The Greene County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash […]

Living on Purpose: Respecting and appreciating our military

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media President Ronald Reagan in a radio address to the nation in 1983 is quoted, “Veterans know better than anyone else the […]

Social Security Matters: Older veteran asks about special credit for military service

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I served in the U.S. Army from January 1958 to February 1961. What increase should I receive for those years […]

Board opts for road markings to start intersection upgrade

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—The Town Board voted to take some preliminary steps to make improvements to the problematic hamlet intersection of County Route 7 and State Route 82. But whether […]

Rain expected to dampen regional wildfires

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—With rain, and in higher elevations snow predicted to start early Thursday, November 21 and continue through Friday, some relief from the current drought is finally expected. […]

County Board passes occupancy tax, raises tipping fee

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Columbia County Board of Supervisors imposed a short term occupancy tax, increased a solid waste tipping fee, released more money for emergency repair of a bridge […]

Child Development class offers real-world experience

GREENVILLE — High school students who elect to take teacher Jamie Pecylak’s Child Development class have the unique opportunity to explore careers in human services through hands-on learning. The course […]

Whittling Away: Send me in, Coach

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I could have been in the Olympics if I’d wanted to be. The amazing thing to me is how many of my […]

Barr, of TCI of NY, aids in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS – Last Thursday morning, John Barr, a volunteer from TCI of NY, packed his bag and headed for North Carolina with a […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – November 14, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – November 13, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Veterans Day observed in Hudson

By DAVID LEE HUDSON—The Hudson Veterans Day observances began at 10 a.m. on Monday, November 11, with the placing of a wreath at the veterans monument in the 7th Street […]

Capital project update

GREENVILLE — Exciting progress is underway across campus! The district is one step closer to improved learning spaces for students and staff.  MS AND HS ART ROOMS  Renovations are progressing […]

Soft Paws: Purebred vs. mixed breed, Part 2

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media Health of purebred and mixed breeds, continued… With great frequency, questions come up not only in my classes, but with phone consults […]

Obituary: Frances ‘Blondie’ Neri

RAVENA – Frances Jean Wilsey Neri, affectionately known as Blondie to all who knew her, died peacefully at home on Oct. 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.   She […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Nov. 21, 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. […]

Municipal policy options addressed in Gallatin

GALLATIN—Christine Vanderlan of the Hudson River Estuary Program and Cornell University will give a presentation to the Town Board about Municipal Policy Options at the Gallatin Town Hall, Tuesday, November […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Smoky skies again

By NANCY JANE KERN OVER THE WEEKEND the morning fog was a strange, ash gray, and came across the field in waves and wisps. It was reminiscent of the bluish […]

Fall fishing opportunities abound

The warm, sunny days were here and gone and when ice fishing season begins remains to be seen. The good news is there’s still good fishing to be had for […]

ENTERTAINMENT: Barrington Stage Company closes its season with ‘Primary Trust’

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE BARRINGTON STAGE COMPANY closed its 30th anniversary season with “Primary Trust,” the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Drama winner, on October 13. Stylistically, the play written […]

Drought warning issued for Greene County

The state Department of Environmental Conservation issued a heightened Drought Warning for Greene County, along with much of the Catskill, Hudson Valley and New York City regions. The rest of […]

Fire risk remains elevated, drought drags on

By DIANE VALDEN GHENT—The continued lack of precipitation has prompted the National Weather Service in Albany to issue a Special Weather Statement this week. The statement applies to all of […]

The Retired Investor: The Trump trades

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Now that the election is over and a clear winner has emerged, it is time to take a closer look at how […]

Positively Speaking: Skinwalker Ranch

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I’m wrapping up my spooky series with a tale that fits perfectly into the Strange, Dark, and Mysterious. We’ve explored unsettling phenomena […]

Warm Wishes and Energy-Saving Tips: Celebrate the Holidays with Long Energy

As the holiday season approaches, Long Energy extends warm wishes and season’s greetings to all staff and customers. The joy of coming together with friends and family during this magical […]

Habitat for Humanity is accepting homeownership applications

HUDSON–Columbia-Greene Habitat for Humanity (CGHFH), a non-profit organization committed to providing homeownership opportunities for average and lower income residents, will be accepting applications for its homeownership program through November 30. […]

Arts & Entertainment: $4M raised for Divided Sky Foundation as Phish returns to Albany

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media On the afternoon of Friday, Oct. 25, as fans began to gather for Phish’s highly anticipated three-night run at Albany’s MVP Arena, a […]

Local volunteers deployed to fight downstate wildfires

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Firefighters from several local fire companies were deployed downstate last week to fight the spreading wildfires in Orange County. The Ravena […]

Living on Purpose: What is in the well comes up in the bucket

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media It’s a spiritual revelation to comprehend that words have tremendous power but where there is privilege there is also accountability. Communication […]

Social Security Matters: Working septuagenarian asks about disability benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I retired at my full retirement age, am now 79 and will be 80 in December. I have been working […]

Ravens fall short in championship game

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Ravens fell short in Saturday’s Section 2 Class B championship game against the Glens Falls Black Bears. The game […]

Prop 1 passed handily, embedding anti-discrimination law in the state constitution

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–Concerned that future legislatures might tilt to the right, New York State legislators placed Proposition 1 on the statewide ballot this year. The proposition passed with […]

Kinderhook opens door to state housing funds

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—At their regular meeting on November 4, the Kinderhook Town Board passed a Pro-Housing Communities Resolution. Passing the resolution is part of the board’s plan to be […]

A legacy of love: The story of Celeste, Seared and Peggy

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media In the golden light of a Carolina morning, three mares stand beneath an ancient oak, their presence so harmonious it recalls George […]

Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family: A Thanksgiving tradition of giving

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media As Thanksgiving approaches, the Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family program, initiated by Capital Region Independent Media (CRIM), is once again bringing comfort […]

Historic church launches steeple restoration project

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — A landmark in the heart of New Baltimore since 1833, the New Baltimore Reformed Church has announced a major initiative […]

Whittling Away: It’s a mental thing

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve noticed a rather unique thing that happens as you age, in my case, gracefully. Your mind picks a pleasant spot and […]

Help celebrate Ruth Tompkins’ 100th birthday

GREENVILLE — Ruth Tompkins and her family are inviting the community to drop in for a quick visit to congratulate Ruth on her 100th birthday. Tompkins currently lives in Greenville […]

EDITORIAL: Why local newspapers hold trust while national media slips

By DEAN RIDINGS, CEO, America’s Newspapers THE RECENT DECISION by The Washington Post and Los Angeles Times to skip endorsing a presidential candidate has put the issue of media trust in the spotlight — […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Nature’s winter pantry

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

ENTERTAINMENT: Hudson Valley Academy of Performing Arts: Shaping community and aspiring dancers

By MARLENE McTIGUE Capital Region Independent Media JUST OFF THE western side of the Taconic Parkway, nestled between the rolling hills of far eastern Columbia County and the black snake […]

Drought makes Shaker Mill blaze difficult to combat

By DIANE VALDEN NEW LEBANON—A fire in the old stone Shaker Mill at 40 Cherry Lane severely damaged upper floors and the roof of the structure, November 4. Columbia County […]

District eyes after-hours security at HS, MS

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district is considering hiring a retired police officer or other security employee to monitor the high school and […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Molinaro concedes 19th Congressional District race

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media U.S. Rep. Marcus Molinaro, R-19, conceded the race for his re-election one week after the results were tallied. Molinaro made a concession speech […]

Local firefighters helping with downstate wildfires

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Volunteers with several local fire departments are heading downstate this morning to help with the wildfires that are still burning in […]

Obituary: Donna Lockwood Jennings

GREENVILLE – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donna Lockwood Jennings on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024.  A beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Donna worked for New York State […]

Aging with Grace: ‘She asked to touch my face’

By Pat Larsen For Capital Region Independent Media Quite accidentally, I happened upon some folded notebook pages tucked into one of my favorite cookbooks that many years ago had been […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Nov. 14, 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. […]

Collection to brighten troops’ holidays

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The holiday season can be difficult for military members serving overseas, far from family and friends, but a local group is […]

The Retired Investor: Betting on elections comes of age

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Place your bets, ladies and gentlemen. This year’s presidential election entered the world of online betting. That’s right, presidents have now entered […]

Positively Speaking: ‘Missing 411’

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Well, if you read my column last week, you’ll know that I decided to venture into the Strange, Dark, and Mysterious—a bit […]

Westerlo honors Hometown Heroes in closing ceremony

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media WESTERLO — A week before Veterans Day, the town of Westerlo held its closing ceremony for its seventh annual Hometown Heroes program on […]

Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family: A Thanksgiving tradition of giving in our communities

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media As Thanksgiving approaches, the Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family program, initiated by Capital Region Independent Media (CRIM), is once again bringing comfort […]

Living on Purpose: God’s light allows us to see His desires

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media For those who pay no attention to national and social politics, this election passed by like every other day and hardly […]

Social Security Matters: Why does the government ‘raid’ Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: The Social Security program is funded by employees and their employers. The federal government does not contribute to the program, […]

RCS headed for championship rematch with Glens Falls

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS has done it again… the Ravens are headed to the Class B Section 2 championship. It will be a rematch […]

City and Spark have plans for Charles Williams Park

By DAVID LEE HUDSON–Working in Collaboration with the City of Hudson, the Spark of Hudson held a fall festival in the Charles Williams Park at 246 Mill Street on Saturday, […]

Time to register for RCS winter sports

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — With the regular season over for fall sports, it’s time to register for the winter sports season at RCS. Junior varsity and varsity registration will run through Nov. […]

Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family: A Thanksgiving tradition of giving

By MARLENE McTIGUE Capital Region Independent Media GHENT–As Thanksgiving approaches, the Feed Your Mind, Feed a Family program, initiated by Capital Region Independent Media (CRIM), is once again bringing comfort […]

The state of local child care: An update

By DEBORAH E. LANS GHENT–The French have an expression that applies with unfortunate accuracy to child care: the more things change, the more they stay the same. While the state […]

Honoring the nation’s veterans

Each November, millions of people recognize the service and sacrifice of military veterans on Veterans Day. Initially commemorated as Armistice Day but renamed Veterans Day in the United States in […]

Oak Hill & Vicinity: History of the DeWitt Hotel

By Mary Lou Nahas For Capital Region Independent Media Since a number of buildings on the main street of Oak Hill are listed on the State and National Registers of […]

Event: Historic preservation in times of political and social division

RAVENA — On Sunday, Nov. 17, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will present a program featuring Dr. Patricia West McKay. Dr. West will reflect on a lifelong study of […]

Whittling Away: A joy forever

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Long ago, when both the Earth and I were young, simple things entertained, amused and occupied me. The Earth and I are […]

Obituary: Cecile Owens Plattner

Cecile Owens Plattner, age 67, of Greenville, NY, died peacefully of cancer on Nov. 3, 2024, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, NY, surrounded by her family.  Cecile was born […]

GOOD NEWS!: Breast cancer walk raises awareness and funds cutting-edge research

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Dozens turned out to VFW Post 9594 last weekend for the fourth annual breast cancer walk to show their support for […]

Be A Better Gardener: Back to the future

By Thomas Christopher For Capital Region Independent Media Three thousand years ago, farmers in China nurtured their soil with a technique I am just now exploring. Those ancient farmers understood, […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 31, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 30, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

BOE releases unofficial election results for the county

By EMILIA TEASDALE GHENT—The Columbia County Board of Elections had unofficial vote totals late Tuesday night, November 5, posted on their website (elections.columbiacountyny.com). In the county race for the 19th […]

Fahy is Coeymans’ new state senator

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Election Day brought Coeymans a new state senator. Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy was elected to fill the seat vacated by state Sen. […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: A Halloween Tale

By NANCY JANE KERN IT WAS LATE OCTOBER and good weather to do a final cleanup of the old rural cemetery before the winter snows began. The secluded little cemetery […]

Riley ousts Molinaro, state officials win re-election

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — Election Day saw Greenville’s state officials re-elected, but Democratic challenger Josh Riley defeated Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Marcus Molinaro for the […]

Hudson man charged with multiple counts of sex abuse

By DIANE VALDEN HUDSON—Wednesday, October 23, Hudson Police arrested Cristobal Orlando Ascencio-Chacon, 34, of Hudson on four separate counts of first degree sexual abuse of a child less than 11 […]

Soft Paws: Pure breeds versus mixed breeds

By Charlene Marchand For Capital Region Independent Media As I became more involved with the intervention and training of shelter dogs in the 1970s and ‘80s, with a significant increase […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Nov. 7, 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. […]

Election results – Albany County

EDITOR’S NOTE: All results are unofficial at this time. An “X” next to a candidate’s name indicates a projected winner. U.S. SENATE:  (with 11,531 of 13,357 districts reporting) X Kirsten […]

Election results – Greene County

EDITOR’S NOTE: All election results are unofficial at this time. An “X” next to a candidate’s name indicates a projected winner. U.S. SENATE: (with 11,531 of 13,357 districts reporting) X […]

Pet supply mission hampered by local suspicion and misinformation

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated areas of western North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia and Kentucky, families and communities […]

Columbia County announces burn ban

HUDSON—Columbia County Board of Supervisors Chairman Matt Murell announced in a November 5 press release that a countywide burn ban has been declared and is to take effect immediately. This […]

The Retired Investor: Natural diamonds take a back seat to lab-grown stones

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media There was a day when a man’s love for his bride was measured by the clarity and size of a diamond ring. […]

Danger of fire is ‘High’ here

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—Recent weather conditions marked by drought, low humidity, warm temperatures and wind have prompted the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to rate the Hudson […]

New Lebanon purchases former firehouse for community center

By DOUG LA ROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–For nearly a year the New Lebanon Town Board has been debating the purchase of the former Lebanon Valley Protective Association […]

Positively Speaking: Blood rain

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media While I focus on the positive, I’m a fan of the Strange, Dark, and Mysterious. Who doesn’t love a good mystery? I’m […]

K’hook Town budget proposal nudges $3 million

By EMILIA TEASDALE VALATIE—The Kinderhook Town Board adopted the preliminary 2025 budget at their regular meeting on October 1. As posted on the town’s website (www.kinderhook-ny.gov) the budget is about […]

Greene County placed under drought watch

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Greene County is one of 15 New York counties placed on a drought watch list Monday. The New York State Department of Environmental […]

Crandell unveils major upgrades, closes for year

By DAVID LEECHATHAM–FilmColumbia has just concluded its 24th annual film festival on Sunday, October 27 and now its home screen at the Crandell Theatre on Main Street in the village […]

Hudson gives HHA extension on holding land

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Hudson Housing Authority (HHA) received an extension from the Hudson Community Development and Planning Agency (HCDPA) to December 31 for paying to hold specific city-owned properties for […]

RCS offense unstoppable in quarterfinal against Gloversville

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens continued their winning ways on the gridiron Friday night when they defeated Gloversville 56-21. Playing in the Sectionals game […]

Greene County honors 103-year-old WWII veteran

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CATSKILL — Greene County honored 103-year-old World War II veteran and Freehold resident Stanley Maltzman at this year’s Veteran of the Year ceremony […]

Living on Purpose: We pray, we vote, and leave the rest to God

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media To be honest, I do not like politics, but at the same time I believe it’s my duty and opportunity to […]

Social Security Matters: Taxation of Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I am past my Social Security full retirement age and I am still working. I am married and we file […]

Morningstar looks forward to continue serving Copake

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Federal and state political races have seized voter attention this election year—big time. And while there are no local contests on the ballot in 2024, there is […]

Whittling Away: Flipper

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s out there, waiting, hiding in the pack, looking like all the others. It knows when I’m coming and somehow it works […]

DAY ONE—a childcare trifecta

By DEBORAH E. LANS POUGHKEEPSIE–Can you imagine a workplace that has had zero turnover in its existence? Where every “worker” glows when describing the job? That has a profoundly important […]

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

College & Military Corner

Shawn Rose, of Cairo, assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, was promoted Sept. 5 to the rank of staff sergeant in the New York Army National Guard. [...]

DEC encourages NYers to help protect bats during ‘Bat Week’

ALBANY — To raise awareness about the critical role of bats in the environment during internationally recognized Bat Week, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar […]

Toys for Tots: A helping hand for the holidays

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS—Riverview Missionary Baptist Church is once again operating its annual Toys for Tots campaign, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers like Rosa […]

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 […]

ENTERTAINMENT: Discovering the Norman Rockwell Museum: A cultural gem in Stockbridge, MA

By MARLENE McTIGUE AT THE VERY western edge of the Berkshires, the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA, stands as a testament to the power of art in shaping American […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 24, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 23, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

RCS extends interim HS assistant principal appointment

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS School District announced Thursday that John Thorson, retired principal from Chatham, will continue to serve as the interim high school assistant principal through June 30, 2025. […]

Women-owned dispensary to open Greene County’s first cannabis store

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE—Greene County is preparing to welcome its first recreational cannabis dispensary this fall, marking a historic moment for the area’s business landscape and […]

AG issues guidance for voters

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James issued guidance reminding New Yorkers of their voting rights and key election information for the November 2024 general election. James highlighted […]

Annual cemetery tour explores the history of the city

By DAVID LEE HUDSON–A tour of the historic Cedar Park Cemetery was conducted on Sunday, October 20. Organized through the Hudson Area Library, the tour has been an annual event […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Oct. 31, 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. […]

Is our family court in crisis?

Eighth in a series on justice By DEBORAH E. LANS HUDSON–In February 2024 the state Senate issued a report headed “The Crisis in New York’s Family Courts.” It was just […]

High schoolers put cooking skills to the test

GREENVILLE — Students in Greenville High School recently put their cooking skills to the test in an Iron Chef competition. Four teams in each of teacher Jamie Pecylak’s Family and […]

The Retired Investor: Natural diamonds take a back seat to lab-grown stones

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media There was a day when a man’s love for his bride was measured by the clarity and size of a diamond ring. […]

Election rundown: Federal, state, county races up for grabs

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The presidential race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump has been dominating the spotlight, but there are […]

Positively Speaking: Blood rain

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media While I focus on the positive, I’m a fan of the Strange, Dark, and Mysterious. Who doesn’t love a good mystery? I’m […]

Passenger dead, driver charged with manslaughter

By DIANE VALDEN NEW BALTIMORE—A Hudson man was killed in a one-vehicle crash and the driver, also from Hudson, faces charges. A Greene County Sheriff’s Office press release reports 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

Phish fan photos

Phish fans from far and wide converged upon Albany this past weekend for a 3-night run at the MVP Arena. The energy was palpable as enthusiasts mingled both inside and […]

Ravens are 2024 Reinfurt Division champs

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens became the Reinfurt Division champions on Friday with a huge win over the Green Tech Eagles by a score […]

Girls’ volleyball celebrates Senior Night

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens girls’ volleyball team celebrated Senior Night on Wednesday. There are two graduating seniors on the team — Talia Jones […]

Social Security Matters: Signing up for Social Security and Medicare Part B at 70

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I just turned 69 years old in August 2024 and am still working full-time. I signed up for Medicare Part […]

Fuel truck rollover forces Thruway closure

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media CATSKILL — A fuel truck rollover on the New York State Thruway has forced the closure of all southbound lanes between exits 20 […]

Living on Purpose: Oh, how we ignore our need to change

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Transformation is a word used to explain what happens when someone is saved. It’s the theme of the Christian faith, but […]

New warming center opens in Hudson

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–A warming center with beds and meals opened in Hudson, October 17, as the Blanche Hotaling Memorial Mission. Located in the First Reformed Church of Hudson on […]

Residents’ input sought on crossroads study findings

By DIANE VALDEN ANCRAM—The results of the much anticipated engineer’s evaluation and traffic study of the notoriously scary County Route 7 / State Route 82 intersection are in, now it’s […]

Election rundown: Federal, state, local races up for grabs

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The presidential race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump has been dominating the spotlight, but there are […]

Barrett and Krakower run in 106th AD

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY GHENT–The 106th Assembly District (AD) race features two long-serving office holders: the incumbent Democrat Didi Barrett with 12 years in the Assembly and the challenger, Republican […]

Horses of Unbridled: The unbreakable bond: A tale of three mares

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Unbridled exists as a sanctuary where horses find solace, companionship, and understanding. Each week, as we delve into the lives of the […]

Innovation Station’s Puzzled Pints returns

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — After a successful debut last year, Ravena Innovation Station’s Puzzled Pints program has returned, offering locals a fun and mentally stimulating […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Witch Hazel

By NANCY JANE KERN ROAMING THE WOODS in October is glorious and anticipatory. Several migrating yellow-rumped warblers were snacking on still available insects and the numerous poison ivy berries. Toward the […]

Taghkanic men charged with possessing child pornography

By DIANE VALDEN TAGHKANIC—State Police from the Livingston barracks in conjunction with the State Police Computer Crimes Unit arrested two Taghkanic men for possession of child pornography, October 9. Following […]

Whittling Away: Shopping

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I think I’m finally catching on to this shopping thing.  I had the disadvantage of having been born male, and shopping doesn’t […]

Election: Hinchey, Sheehan vie for 41st Senate District

By Lorna Cherot Littleway For Capital Region Independent Media Democratic incumbent state Sen. Michelle Hinchey is seeking re-election in the 41st Senate District against Republican challenger Pat Sheehan. The 41st […]

Aging with Grace: Boomer-proof

By Pat Larsen Capital Region Independent Media OK, we’re getting older and stuff just isn’t so easy to open anymore. Is it?  Acknowledging this is a sign of maturity. Or maybe […]

Board looks at declining population in town and county

By PETER FLIERL CANAAN–Canaan Town Supervisor Brenda Adams turned the Town Board meeting Monday, October 14, over to Chris Brown, Housing Development coordinator with Columbia County Housing Task Force. Mr. […]

County Board makes plans for ARPA funds

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–Student internships, animal welfare, a historic bridge marker, and ARPA received attention at the Columbia County Board of Supervisors meetings September 11 and October 9. ARPA (the […]

County broadband funding to expand service in Coeymans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Albany County has allocated $2.9 million to expand broadband access to unserved areas of the county, and there is a possibility […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 17, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 16, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Cat rescued in Coeymans Hollow blaze

COEYMANS HOLLOW — Two cats perished in a structure fire in a home on Starr Road but a third was rescued, received oxygen and made a full recovery. On Wednesday, […]

Trunk or Treat coming to Ellis Elementary

GREENVILLE — Trunk or Treat is back for another year at Scott M. Ellis Elementary School, thanks to the Ellis PTA! The event will be on Friday, Oct. 25, from […]

Horror in the Hollow takes over Joralemon Park

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — With creaks and groans and screams that pierced the night, the community gathered at Joralemon Park on Saturday for the […]

Soft Paws: Cruelty investigator honored with Bilinski Award

By Guest Columnist Ron Perez For Capital Region Independent Media In 1994, Dr. Jerry Bilinski began an unending commitment to the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) during his tenure with us. […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Oct. 24, 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. […]

Council supports Good Cause Eviction law for city

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–The Hudson City Common Council passed a Good Cause Eviction law (GCE) at its meeting October 15. Under GCE, landlords cannot end a tenancy without a legal […]

Event: Murder, mystery and a ghost story at the Pratt Museum

PRATTSVILLE—On Sunday, Oct. 27, from 1-3 p.m., Greene County Historian Jonathan Palmer will thrill and chill his audience with the second in the Pratt Museum’s second annual Harvest Lecture & […]

District: RCS operating under severe bus driver shortage

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district is continuing to operate under a severe bus driver shortage. The district is eight to ten drivers short of being fully staffed, which is […]

The Retired Investor: Back to the future in nuclear energy

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media In the 1950s, nuclear was deemed the energy of the future. Unfortunately, the world’s ardor for replacing fossil fuels with clean atomic […]

Positively Speaking: Manifestation

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Manifestation—does it truly work? For decades, this concept has captured significant attention, especially in the pages of popular self-help books like “The […]

Bendett and Pierce run in the 107th

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY GHENT–Early voting for the general elections start Saturday, October 26 and runs continuously to Sunday, November 3. Columbia County polls will be open in Hudson at […]

Quack quack! The ducks are back

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GREENVILLE — The ducks are back in Greenville. After a years-long hiatus, local business owner Gared Wilkie from Community Partners of Greenville is […]

Living on Purpose: The dynamic relationship between love and prayer

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Last Sunday, I was asked to bring the morning sermon for a wonderful church in the country called Mt. Lebanon Methodist. […]

SPORTS: Strikers head to Iceland for soccer tournament

By LORNA CHEROT LITTLEWAY THE STATELINE STRIKERS, a women’s soccer team, are Iceland bound for a one-day championship tournament November 9. Five women’s teams – four from the USA — […]

Girls’ soccer wins three in a row, celebrates Senior Night

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The girls’ varsity soccer team enjoyed a three-game winning streak last week and celebrated Senior Night on their home field Thursday. […]

LOCAL HISTORY: The Skeleton in the Well: An Austerlitz mystery on Fire Hill Road

By TOM MORELAND BACK IN THE 1830s-1840s the Woolsey gang roamed the Austerlitz hills, engaging in horse thieving, counterfeiting and burglary. Their leading spirit, Ambrose F. Woolsey, lived on what […]

Ravens pick up 5th win of season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens easily picked up their fifth win of the season on the gridiron Friday night, defeating the Cohoes Tigers 34-7. […]

Social Security Matters: Retroactive Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: Both my wife and I are 67 1/2, i.e., past our full retirement age of 66 years and six months. […]

THROUGH THE WOODS: Our 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 […]

Slate’s work archived at Washington University

By ANDREA DEGENER ST LOUIS, MO–The Dowd Illustration Research Archive (DIRA) at Washington University (WashU) has acquired the archive of Barbara Slate, a renowned comic artist, teacher, writer and columnist […]

In the line of duty

At this year’s New York State Annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial ceremony, held inside the Empire State Convention Center in Albany, Ancram Volunteer Firefighter Stewart “Stewie” Guy Hunt was among those [...]

Chatham School Board honors employees’ life-saving actions

CHATHAM–The Chatham Board of Education recently honored Chatham Middle School Nurse Kate Juliano, Assistant Principal Michael Stead, Teacher Aide Michael Zwingelberg, and Assistant Supervisor of Transportation Steve Oleynek for their […]

Fatal crash leaves one man dead, driver facing charges

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — A one-car motor vehicle crash in the town of New Baltimore on Thursday left one man dead and the driver […]

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

Horses of Unbridled: Mabel’s tale: A journey through darkness into light

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Readers, This week, I have the privilege of sharing a story that has profoundly touched my heart and, I believe, will […]

Three hurt in two-vehicle crash in Copake

By DIANE VALDEN COPAKE—Three people were hurt in a two-vehicle crash at 159 Yonderview Road, September 27 at 4:52 p.m. Hillsdale firefighters, the Community Rescue Squad and the Columbia County […]

Small tax break proposed in New Lebanon

By DOUG LA ROCQUE Capital Region Independent Media NEW LEBANON–Town Supervisor Tistrya Houghtling has put forth the 2025 tentative town budget. It contains a 0.47 cut in the amount of […]

New Baltimore targets cat overpopulation with spay-neuter clinic

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — Area residents gathered last Saturday at the town hall for a reduced-cost spay and neuter clinic for cats, organized by […]

Animal Abuser Registry passed by board, EATS still a concern

By JEANETTE WOLFBERG HUDSON–On September 11 the Columbia County Board of Supervisors both authorized the Sheriff’s Office to establish an Animal Abuser Registry for protecting companion animals and urged US […]

Whittling Away: Seasons

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Pumpkins are starting to make their annual appearance on front doorsteps. Fog coats the yard in the morning. Leaves are starting their […]