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ALL RAVENA NEWS-HEARALD ARTICLES

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – March 20, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena:  Coeymans Herald – March 19, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Indulge that sweet tooth: Crosstown Maple showcases syrup production

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Got a sweet tooth? Then Crosstown Maple on New York’s Maple Weekend is the place for you. Crosstown Maple on Blodgett […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, March 27, 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. […]

College & Military Corner

The following local students earned inclusion on the fall 2024 dean’s list at SUNY Cortland: Makenna Deitz of Ravena, an adolescence education: social studies major; Aidan Lochner of Ravena, a [...]

Positively Speaking: Say less

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all had that moment—the instant regret of saying something we wish we could take back. Maybe it was in a business […]

RCS CBA honors Guinevere Gorman of Grace Roofing

RAVENA – The RCS Community Business Association is proud to introduce She Means Business!, a new annual event recognizing and celebrating women who exemplify leadership, success in business, and deep […]

Social Security Matters: Can I avoid paying the Medicare premium?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Is there any way I can get out of paying the $185 I am told will be taken out of […]

Obituary: Florence M. Traver

The passing of Florence M. Traver on Thursday, March 20, 2025, is announced with heavy hearts. Florence was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She dedicated her life to […]

Whittling Away: Heroes

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was watching television last week when a catchphrase uttered by someone I didn’t recognize stuck in my head.  As I said […]

State budget, Albany investment take center stage

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — New York state’s 2025 budget and a historic investment in downtown Albany were the focus of a recent Capital Region Chamber […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – March 13, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – March 12, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors* *No issue for this date. The […]

Coeymans Hollow, mutual aid battle brush fire

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — A brush fire on Tompkins Road drew a response from five local fire companies. There were no injuries in the […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, March 20, 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. […]

Immigrants by the numbers

First in a series By Deborah E. Lans For Capital Region Independent Media In 1958, in “A Nation of Immigrants,” John F. Kennedy wrote: “Since 1607, when the first English […]

Positively Speaking: Remember the Alamo!

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media My dad was obsessed with the Battle of the Alamo, which fell in the early morning hours of March 6, 1836—189 years […]

Town council votes on $17M state grant for power substation

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council voted by a 3-2 margin in favor of a resolution aimed at moving forward with a $17 million […]

Social Security Matters: Did we make a mistake starting my wife’s Social Security now?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I hope we haven’t made a mistake! My wife just applied for her Social Security benefit. She was born in May […]

Supervisor’s Message: State of the Town — Coeymans’ strategic plan for sustainable growth

Submitted by Stephen Donnelly For Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS – At the recent State of the Town address, I outlined my commitment to aligning Coeymans with its history, comprehensive […]

Whittling Away: Changing priorities

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media As I sink slowly into the seas of antiquity, I find frequently that things of importance to me shift up and down […]

Highway Department navigates road salt challenges

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS – A mix of supply chain issues, quality concerns, and price fluctuations has made road salt management a critical challenge for highway […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – March 6, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – March 5, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Police escort for AWB fifth grader

SELKIRK — A.W. Becker 5th grader Kevin from Ms. Palas’s class chose a police escort to school as his prize for being one of the top fundraisers for the A.W. […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, March 13, 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. […]

Time to register for RCS spring sports

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Now that winter sports are in the books, it’s time to sign up for the spring sports season. RCS offers the […]

Positively Speaking: It’s not about you

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all been there. You’re just minding your business, maybe running errands or sipping coffee, when—BAM—someone snaps at you like you personally […]

GOOD NEWS!: Young thespians showcase ‘Mean Girls’ on RCS stage

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — More than 60 RCS students sang, danced, built props and scenery, and poured their hearts into this year’s musical theater production […]

Social Security Matters: Should I wait until age 70 to claim Social Security? 

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am a married woman, at my full retirement age, and the primary earner in my marriage. How do I […]

ReFurnishings event supports families in crisis

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Justice for Orphans is launching the ReFurnishings Thrift & Flip Challenge, a unique event that combines creativity, sustainability, and community engagement […]

Whittling Away: Organic and free-range

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was in the supermarket the other day, making my daily visit, pushing the cart that they seem to reserve just for […]

Small-town life: Supporting our own in times of tragedy

Breakfast fundraiser for Arnold family planned for Saturday By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — When tragedy strikes in a small town, that’s oftentimes when the community steps […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 27, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – February 26, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

McHugh running for town supervisor

Republicans pick slate of candidates By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Former Town Supervisor George McHugh will be on the ballot for town supervisor in November. The […]

Obituary: Virgil J. Meliti Sr.

Virgil J. Meliti Sr., 101, of Selkirk, passed away on Feb. 26, 2025, at his home. Born on June 1, 1923, and raised in Croton, New York, Virgil James Meliti […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, March 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. […]

Obituary: Mabel Klenk

Mabel Klenk, 100 years old, a lifetime resident of Ravena, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 31, 2025. Mabel was a loving mother to Susan Ferber, Kathy Durkin and […]

Ravena, Coeymans officials hold first joint meeting of 2025

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Officials from the village of Ravena and the town of Coeymans gathered recently for their first joint meeting of 2025 at […]

Positively Speaking: Rejected, ridiculed, right

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I love stories about people who saw the world differently—people who challenged everything society told them was true. These are the people […]

Acomb makes it to second day of state competition

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS sophomore Jayden Acomb headed to the state wrestling tournament and made it to the second day of competition. While a […]

Social Security Matters: Can I get extra Social Security for my military service? 

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Please help. I served from 1964 to 1966 in the U.S. Army. I have been trying to contact Social Security […]

GOOD NEWS!: Hundreds celebrate winter at Lawson Lake festival

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Like ice? Then Lawson Lake was the place to be this weekend for the annual Winter Festival. Hundreds from around […]

Whittling Away: A new field of work

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

The Underground Railroad: Stories of freedom

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — As Black History Month draws to a close, the RCS Community Library hosted a history talk celebrating the achievements of the […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 13,  1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: of the congregation who had arranged a party in celebration of their pastor’s birthday. Fifty guests were present, and […]

Boys’ basketball loses a close one in sectionals

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens boys’ basketball team lost a heartbreaker Wednesday against Ichabod Crane in the first round of Section 2 sectionals. The […]

DEC releases hunting safety statistics for 2024

ALBANY — New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar announced another safe year of hunting seasons, with the 2024 season being the second safest on […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Feb. 27, from 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime is a fun, participatory storytime for the whole family that includes songs, fingerplays, stories and movement activities. No registration is required. Friday, […]

PHOTO GALLERY: Science Olympiad team takes 3rd in regionals

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Middle School Science Olympiad team ended their season with an impressive third-place finish at the regional competition. Several students also earned medals in their respective events. […]

Positively Speaking: Dr. Bhaumik’s success

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I was recently invited to a Super Bowl party in LA, so I figured—why not? I flew out, rented a car, and […]

Acomb qualifies for states 2nd year in a row

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — He’s done it again — RCS wrestler Jayden Acomb placed second in sectionals and qualified to compete in the state tournament […]

Social Security Matters: Claiming Social Security with a Health Savings Account

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I have reached my full retirement age (66 plus 8 months) and plan to apply for Social Security this month, […]

Children’s advocacy group expanding services

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena Village Board met earlier this month to discuss community updates, including the expansion of St. Catherine’s Center for Children’s […]

Whittling Away: Television

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was driving through our little hamlet the other day and suddenly a strange feeling that something was missing, something that used […]

County’s Winter Festival comes to Lawson Lake

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Get ready to bundle up and head to Lawson Lake for a day of winter fun. The annual Winter Festival, […]

Six guards charged with murder in beating death of Marcy inmate

By Doug La RocqueCapital Region Independent Media UTICA – An Oneida County Grand Jury has charged six corrections officers with 2nd degree murder in the beating death of Marcy Correctional Facility […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 6, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – February 5, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Susan L. Moore

March 2, 1954 – Jan. 31, 2025 RAVENA — Susan L. Moore, 70, formerly of Ravena, passed away Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at Advent Hospital in Daytona Beach, Florida. Susan […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Feb. 20, 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. […]

Country Wine & Spirits: New business brings fresh energy to Ravena

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A new business has joined the growing local economy as Country Wine and Spirits officially opened its doors. Located in the […]

Positively Speaking: Input = Output

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Life isn’t just a straight path—it’s a series of bizarre, sometimes embarrassing, and unpredictable phases. And when you think about it, every […]

Davis named Most Outstanding Wrestler at JV tournament

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Wrestler Gabe Davis was named Most Outstanding Wrestler, or MOW, in the Bethlehem JV Duals Tournament earlier this month. Davis competes in the 285-pound weight class. Special thanks […]

Social Security Matters: Why was Social Security money moved to the general Treasury? 

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: Why were the Social Security funds moved from the Social Security account to the General Fund with the government? Is […]

Community unites to support Coeymans officer after house fire

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A fire destroyed the home of Sergeant Kelly Arnold in the Coeymans Police Department, and now the community is pulling together […]

Ravens turn out 5 state qualifier wrestlers, four alternates

By Gina Pelletier and Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Five Ravens wrestlers will head to the state qualifier tournament on Saturday, with four athletes named as alternates. […]

Ravens honor three on Senior Night

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS girls’ basketball team honored three players on Senior Night on Tuesday. Danielle DeLuke, Meadow Rabideau and Kendall Bullock are […]

Whittling Away: Cash

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I wish they’d stop messing around with our money. I’m not referring to how the government spends the stuff or to the […]

Port preps final section of $1.7B bridge for transport to NJ

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The Port of Coeymans prepared the third and final section of a bridge Wednesday for transport down the Hudson River. The […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – February 6, 1925 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – February 5, 1890 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Collins family expands entrepreneurial legacy with Capitaland Filter

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Collins family, a well-known entrepreneurial family behind the multi-generational Collins & Son, Inc., has added a new venture to their […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Feb. 13, 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. […]

Acomb’s winning streak continues

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Jayden Acomb’s winning streak on the wrestling mat continued at the King Bison Invitational when he took first place in his […]

Positively Speaking: Control yourself

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Life doesn’t always give us the outcomes we hope for. In those moments, it’s easy to let your emotions take control. But […]

Ravens honor basketball, cheer seniors

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens on Friday honored two boys’ basketball players and one cheerleader on Senior Night. There are two graduating seniors on […]

JV hoops win back-to-back at home

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS junior varsity boys’ basketball team won back-to-back games on their home court last week. On Feb. 4, the team […]

Social Security Matters: Social Security benefits and multiple ex-spouses

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: If a financially well-off individual had multiple ex-spouses, could it happen that the multiple ex-spouses could each be collecting Social […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

‘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

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

VIDEO: Time capsule from 1887 opened in Cobleskill

Warren Dews Jr. and Bruce Tryon of Capital Region Independent Media’s Times-Journal are live from Cobleskill, NY as the town works to uncover history: A time capsule, sealed away in […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

Modified volleyball team celebrates undefeated season under new coach

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It was a banner year for the RCS girls’ modified volleyball team, which finished with an impressive 13-0 undefeated season under […]

Tough week for RCS basketball

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It was a tough week for the RCS varsity basketball teams. Last Tuesday, the girls’ team trailed most of the game […]

Social Security Matters: How does IRMAA affect Social Security taxes?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: In a recent article about Medicare’s “Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount” (IRMAA) and how IRMAA affects Social Security taxes, you described […]

A very special visit with Santa

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — This may be Santa Claus’ most hectic time of year, but he’s never too busy for the kids of Coeymans […]

Whittling Away: Squirrels

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was getting the bird feeders ready to put up for another winter and just for a fleeting moment I thought about […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – December 5, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – December 3, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

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 […]

RAVENS REPORT: Superintendent’s Message: New security position under consideration

By Dr. Brian Bailey RCS District Superintendent As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff and visitors, we are exploring the […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Dec. 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. No registration is required. Thursday, […]

RAVENS REPORT: RCS teacher named Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Brandon Herwick, RCS physical education teacher, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year Award by the New York State Association […]

Positively Speaking: The ego

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I was conversing with a friend recently and we found ourselves in a back-and-forth about ego. She thought focusing too much on […]

Christmas parade celebrates the season

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Though temperatures were frosty, residents turned out by the hundreds to see the annual Christmas parade march from Coeymans Landing up […]

Social Security Matters: Am I entitled to more Social Security from my ex-husbands?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: I am 76 years old and a retired high school counselor/teacher. I was married to my first husband from 1968 […]

Junior Grange celebrates year of crafting and competition

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena Junior Grange No. 663 has had an eventful year, with its young members busily engaging in various craft projects […]

Whittling Away: Mostly milk

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It hit me in the supermarket the other day — no, it wasn’t the cart piled high with baked goods being propelled […]

Historical Society to hold Holiday Open House 

RAVENA — The Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will hold a holiday Open House on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 1-3:30 p.m. in its museum, located in the rear entrance of the Ravena […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – November 28, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – November 27, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Village, town gearing up to launch holiday season

Massive parade set for Saturday By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The village and town are gearing up for one of the community’s biggest bashes of the […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Dec. 5, 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. […]

Now passed, what does Prop 1 mean for NYS?

By Deborah E. Lans Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Concerned that future legislatures might tilt to the right, New York state legislators placed Proposition 1 on the statewide ballot […]

Positively Speaking: The fight for freedom

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We recently wrapped up another election season and opened the latest chapter in our nation’s history. The act of voting, an honor […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

Thrills and chills await on Haunted Hayride

COEYMANS HOLLOW — Strange happenings are going on at the Jorlameon Park in Coeymans Hollow.  Sightings have been reported by local residents and passersby to the local police about strange lights, […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 10, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 9, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

McCoy releases 2025 Executive Budget

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALBANY — Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy last week released the Executive Budget for fiscal year 2025. The $847 million proposal represents a […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Oct. 17, 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 man charged with possessing child pornography

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A Ravena man was arrested Friday and faces charges of possessing images of child sexual exploitation, New York State Police said […]

Positively Speaking: The griper

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media If you like to gripe, you’ll say about me, “He’s just writing this column to complain about people who like to gripe! […]

Lord’s Acre Auction and Fair marks 69th year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media     COEYMANS HOLLOW — For some, the Lord’s Acre Auction and Fair has become a family tradition passed down through the generations. The auction, […]

Social Security Matters: Will my wife’s survivor benefit be less if she claims her Social Security early?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: I claimed Social Security at 70. My wife claimed her own SS at 62, and her earnings were significantly lower […]

After back-to-back wins, girls’ soccer drops a pair

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — After two shutout wins in the first week of October, the RCS girls’ varsity soccer team dropped a pair to the […]

Ravens win big on the road, 34-7

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravens took their show on the road Friday night and came away with a big win, 34-7. RCS was in […]

GOOD NEWS!: Local pastors honored for community service, pastoral leadership

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media The Rev. Dr. Roxanne Jones Booth and the Rev. Antonio Booth, former leaders at Riverview Missionary Baptist Church in Coeymans, have been recognized […]

Whittling Away: The battle against bottle tops

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’m going out to my shop this morning and put together a toolbox to keep in the kitchen.  The time has come […]

Open house seeks to recruit local heroes

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Local firefighters and area crafters joined forces Saturday to showcase their work and draw more volunteers to their cause. The […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – October 3, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – October 2, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Ravena resident leads relief effort to help storm victims

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA – Shawn Plante, a Ravena resident, is spearheading a crucial relief effort to assist both people and animals affected by recent […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Oct. 10, 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 […]

Historic tax credit for newspaper, broadcast media spurs resurgence of local journalism

Earlier this year, Capital Region Independent Media—which publishes the Ravena News-Herald, The Columbia Paper and the Greenville Pioneer—joined over 200 other local newspapers in New York state to launch the […]

Positively Speaking: Peace Pilgrim

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media It’s easy to feel like everything is falling apart these days. The economy is uncertain, with prices climbing and jobs becoming more […]

Social Security Matters: Veteran asks about special credits for military service

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  I just learned that if I served in the military during an active-duty period, I could get extra earnings for […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

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) […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 . […]

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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. […]

Albany County designated a ‘Purple Heart County’

In honor of National Purple Heart Day, members of the Albany County Executive’s Office, Albany County Legislature, the Albany County Veterans Service Bureau, and the Albany County Department of Public […]

Whittling Away: Recliners

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve been writing this missive for 25 years as of this month. With over a thousand columns behind me, there are times […]

GOOD NEWS!: First responders honored for service and volunteerism

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — Area first responders were honored during the annual National Night Out last Tuesday hosted by the Bethlehem Police Department. Fire departments, […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald –August 8, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 7, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

State completes $3.2M bridge replacement project

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The state Department of Transportation completed a $3.2 million construction project that replaced the Route 144 bridge over the Hannacrois Creek. […]

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Aug. 15, 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. […]

No job losses anticipated after sale of two Carver divisions

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Carver Companies has sold its mining and trucking divisions to Heidelberg Materials North America. The company, based in Irving, Texas, purchased […]

Positively Speaking: Presidential bravery

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Throughout American history, several presidents have faced the terrifying threat of assassination, yet many of their responses were marked by extraordinary bravery […]

New town hall closing set for mid-September

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town is expected to close on the purchase of a new town hall building in mid-September. Contracts are being finalized […]

Social Security Matters: Does Congress pay into Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I’ve been told that members of Congress do not have Social Security deducted from their pay, and that their retirement […]

Employer charged with putting ‘disguised’ camera under worker’s desk

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A Wynantskill man has been charged with unlawful surveillance after police allege he put a “disguised” camera under the desk of […]

Whittling Away: Commercials

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I like commercials on television. Some of them are more entertaining than the shows they are liberally sprinkled throughout.  I will admit […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 1, 1924 – F. E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 31, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Events: RCS Community Library

Thursday, Aug. 8, 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. […]

RCS fall 2024 sports registration

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It may be hard to believe, but it’s already time for students to register for the fall 2024 sports season at RCS. The district’s Athletics Department has announced […]

Social Security Matters: Self-employed and not enough credits for Social Security

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: For a 30-year period, I was making a living as an independent contractor and freelancer. I was working on behalf […]

Positively Speaking: Finding opportunities

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media How do some people find and seize great opportunities? Throughout history, individuals have achieved monumental success by recognizing and acting on unique […]

Tague, Tweed to face off for 102nd Assembly seat

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — After a drawn-out process to determine the winner of the Democratic primary in the 102nd Assembly District, Janet Tweed was named […]

Ravena Innovation Station awarded $10,000 grant from KeyBank Foundation

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA – The Ravena Innovation Station has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the KeyBank Foundation to support crucial technology upgrades and improvements. […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 25, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 24, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Fundraiser supports Discover RCS

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Members of the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Community Business Association on July 18 hosted a Frese’s Bakery & Catering chicken and rib barbecue dinner […]

College & Military Corner

Ravena resident Sarah Franchini was named to Wofford College’s spring 2024 dean’s list. Two Selkirk students, Erica Ganns and Erika Lehtinen, earned President’s List Honors at SUNY Canton during the [...]

Carver Companies sells mining, trucking division

COEYMANS — Carver Companies on Monday announced that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement in which Heidelberg Materials North America will acquire Carver Sand and Gravel, the largest […]

The Retired Investor: Tax-deferred savings accounts set for some changes

By Bill Schmick For Capital Region Independent Media Starting Sept. 23, there is good news for savers who want a fair shake when looking for investment advice. Let’s hope that […]

Fire destroys home on Lawson Lake Road

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — An early morning fire on Monday destroyed a home at 53 Lawson Lake Road. Members of the Coeymans Hollow Volunteer […]

Former Community Care building eyed for town hall

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town is considering purchasing the former Community Care building on Route 9W for conversion into a new town hall. The […]

Whittling Away: The passage of time

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I admit to getting older but I’m still waiting for the getting wiser part to kick in.  I often ponder about the […]

GOOD NEWS!: Community garden seeks to relieve food insecurity

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Combining the great outdoors with the prospect of fresh food and a love of community — how can you go […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 18, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 17, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Peter J. Sorell, Jr.

Peter J. Sorell, Jr., 74, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday evening, July 19, 2024, with his family at his side. Peter was born in Albany on March […]

Events: RCS Community Library

RAVENA – Here are upcoming programs at the RCS Community Library. The library is located at 95 Main St. in the village. Thursday, July 25, from 6:30-7:45 p.m. Join with […]

Arts & Entertainment: The magic of Tanglewood

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media If you haven’t had the experience yet, you really should know, just over the river and through the woods a bit, there is […]

Committee launched to plan 250th anniversary

ALBANY — Albany County last week officially launched the “USA-250” Commission with the ceremonial swearing in of its members. The committee announced plans to help prepare the county for the […]

A facelift for Mosher Park facilities

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA—Improvements at Ravena’s Mosher Park are underway thanks in part to a $19,000 grant from the Albany County Legislature. Mosher Park is one […]

Event: Community Gardens open house

COEYMANS HOLLOW — The Community Gardens at Trinity United Methodist Church will hold an open house on July 20, from 5-7 p.m.  Tour the vegetable gardens open for public use, learn […]

GOOD NEWS!: Eagle Scout awarded environmental conservation scholarship

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — Some people are gloriously fortunate enough to know their life’s passion from an early age. The even more fortunate among us […]

Whittling Away: Old men and old dogs

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media There is a special bond that develops between old men and old dogs.  It’s different than the bond between kids and puppies […]

Obituary: Lorraine F. Giannone

Lorraine F. Giannone, 73, passed away suddenly at her daughter’s residence on Friday, July 5, 2024. Lorraine was born in Brooklyn on Aug. 9, 1950, a daughter of the late […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 4, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 3, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Business group hosts chicken and rib BBQ to benefit DiscoverRCS

RAVENA — The RCS Community Business Association will host a chicken and rib barbecue on July 18, from 3-7 p.m., in the National Bank of Coxsackie parking lot at Faith […]

Hundreds still without electricity after powerful storm

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS — Hundreds of households in Ravena and Coeymans are still without power following a powerful thunderstorm that struck the area Tuesday afternoon. […]

Parks and Rec offers local summer programming

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS — Once again this summer the Albany County Department of Parks and Recreation is offering free programs to local kids here in […]

Obituary: Ronald L. Munzberg

Ronald L. Munzberg, 79, passed away June 13, 2024, in Daytona Beach, Florida, after a long illness.  He was born Feb. 6, 1945, in Albany, NY, son of the late […]

County hosts first Pride Hike at Lawson Lake

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW—Once again, another Saturday rolled around bringing iffy weather to Albany County. Despite the constant threat of rain, three intrepid souls and […]

Daughter of Coeymans returns to business community to help others

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS—A familiar face is returning to the Coeymans business community. Kristine Tracey Lindskoog, a lifelong resident known to many through her 30-year career […]

County DPW announces road closure on Alcove Road

COEYMANS — The Albany County Department of Public Works advises that there will be a road closure on County Route 111 (Alcove Road) in the town of Coeymans for a […]

Cooling off at the Mosher Park Pool

RAVENA — With temperatures soaring, residents were looking for ways to cool off this holiday weekend — and there was no better way to do that than taking a dip […]

Buffalo bridge’s journey up Erie Canal starts in Port of Coeymans

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A pedestrian bridge that began its journey in Italy and traveled across the Atlantic saw its final preparations in Coeymans before […]

Obituary: Allie Mae Edwards

Allie Mae Edwards, 84, of Ravena, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024. The youngest of seven, she was born in Charlotteville, Schoharie County, New York, to her late parents […]

Shakespeare and Company announces vibrant 2024 season

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media LENOX, Mass. – As the summer heats up the picturesque grounds of Shakespeare and Company in Lenox, Massachusetts are set to come alive […]

College & Military Corner

The following local students were recognized for outstanding academic achievements of part-time undergraduate students at University at Albany: Delaney Beck of Selkirk; Matthew Dombrowski of Delmar, Amy Kirsch of Ravena, […]

Obituary: Patricia E. Irving

On June 11, 2024, Patricia E. Irving, 65, daughter of Naomi Keir and the late Donald Keir, lost her battle with cancer. From our first moment together and forever, our […]

RCS schools close out the year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — School is out for summer, but not before RCS students did a victory lap. Grades from pre-kindergarten up through high school […]

RCS awards diplomas to Class of 2024

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Class of 2024 walked the stage Thursday evening as they accepted their diplomas at commencement at the Empire State Plaza […]

Event: Baked ham dinner

COEYMANS HOLLOW—A baked ham dinner will be held at the Ravena Grange Hall on Saturday, June 29, from 4-6 p.m. The menu will include baked ham, mashed potato, vegetables, apple […]

Dirt Central | Chasin’ Racin’: Friesen surpasses 400 wins

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media        It was a different time but the place was the same—the “Track of Champions” Fonda Speedway. Over the years there have been […]

Highway department grows with the seasons

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media As the seasons change, so too does the work of the Town of Coeymans Highway Department.  Cemeteries need mowing, parks need weed whacking, […]

Summer Fest goes on despite rocky weather

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW—The weather this spring, and now early summer, has been anything but steady, and Saturday’s weather offered a roller coaster ride of […]

Barrington Stage Company: A beacon of theater in the Berkshires

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media It’s no secret that the arts scene is alive and well in Western Massachusetts. With the summer home of the Boston Symphony […]

RCS student-athletes commit to college teams

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK—As the final bell rang through the halls of RCS High School last Thursday an air of excitement and relief filled the building. […]

Summer Fest and Trail Run comes to Lawson Lake

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW—Albany County will host the inaugural Summer Fest and Trail Run on Saturday, June 22, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in […]

Whittling Away: Flashback

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media One of the more enjoyable parts of aging is the frequent flashbacks that occur for no apparent reason.  The one that occurred […]

Cooling station available in Ravena

In anticipation of the high temperatures today, the Village of Ravena Fire Department will make their fire station available as a cooling station on Wednesday June 19, according to Deputy […]

RCS honors outstanding student achievement

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK—The RCS school district is wrapping up the school year and honoring its students’ achievements. The accomplishments of this year’s juniors were recognized during the annual Junior Awards Breakfast held […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – June 6, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – June 5, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Staying safe in extreme heat

With extreme heat and the summer season now here, Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy is reminding everyone to stay indoors in cool conditions as much as possible, to drink […]

Heat wave brings early dismissal for some schools

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS district’s elementary schools will be dismissing students early today due to the heat wave. High school will remain as […]

Citizen science alive and well in Coeymans

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE—Do you know what a glass eel is? As inhabitants of the banks of the mighty Hudson River, you may have seen […]

Excitement building over STEM learning

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA ─ Something cool is happening in the Capital District. Kids are getting excited about STEM ─ science, technology, engineering and math. […]

RCS seniors sign on after graduation

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS seniors Jacob Alaimo and Jayden Holl joined other Career and Technical Education students recently for a National Signing Day, where both seniors signed letters of intent to […]

Community celebrates opening of third HEARt Ear Boutique location

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The community turned out recently as HEARt Ear Boutique opened its third location, a satellite office located at Southtown’s Optical […]

Marlene McTigue joins Capital Region Independent Media

RAVENA — Capital Region Independent Media, which publishes the Ravena News-Herald, is pleased to welcome Marlene McTigue as its new regional director of Client and Community Relations. McTigue is a […]

Ducommun celebrates 175th anniversary

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — A crowd of dignitaries assembled at Ducommun Aerostructures in Coxsackie recently to help celebrate, with company leadership and employees, the 175th […]

Paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — Those who made the ultimate sacrifice in battle were memorialized at an annual ceremony in New Baltimore on Monday. Each […]

A helping hand for local entrepreneurs

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Members of the RCS Community Business Association gathered at Rail to River Brewing last Thursday night to hear about help with […]

Inaugural FUN Walk raises thousands for local food programs

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Donning bright orange shirts and carrying placards, dozens of local residents set off from Mosher Park last Sunday for the inaugural […]

Voters to consider $54.5M budget proposal

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by the RCS Central School District. RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — On Tuesday, May 21, Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District residents will vote on a proposed $54,578,339 budget […]

CRIM wins statewide honors for journalism, advertising

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Capital Region Independent Media, which publishes this newspaper, received numerous statewide honors for its journalism and advertising. Each year, the New York Press […]

Wrestling: Ravena Fury team duals 2024

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It may be the off-season for wrestling, but that doesn’t mean RCS wrestlers aren’t seeing some action. The school on April 27 hosted the Ravena Fury dual meet […]

MY VIEW: My weight loss journey’s next big step

By Warren Dews Jr. Capital Region Independent Media I had promised to write a monthly article about my weight loss journey, but I got really busy in April and missed […]

Social Security Matters: Widower’s retirement stymied by Social Security’s ‘WEP’ and ‘GPO’ rules

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife passed away four years ago. I want to retire so I called SSA and was told I can […]

Positively Speaking: Counting the cost

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all been there before — standing at a crossroads, faced with a major decision that could shape our future. Pacing back […]

Whittling Away: My big idea

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I was having my usual Telly-my-trusty-canine-companion’s sprinkle walk, toast and coffee before the day starts ponder.  A little time to contemplate the […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – May 2, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – May 1, 1889 – S. H. & E. J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Adam C. Marrone

Adam C. Marrone, age 59 years young, of Westerlo, NY, passed away suddenly and too soon on April 12, 2024. Born on June 21,1964, in Catskill, New York, Adam was […]

Persico’s Hardware serves up big changes and plenty of barbecue

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — It was free meatballs hot off the grill and a warm welcome at Persico’s Ace Hardware on Main Street in Ravena […]

GOOD NEWS!: Bethlehem Grange celebrates 150-year milestone

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — The Bethlehem Grange is one of the oldest Granges in New York state and recently celebrated a major milestone — its […]

District announces ‘Top 10’ students in Class of 2024

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — It’s been four long years, but with the end of high school in sight, the RCS school district has announced the […]

Dual of the Schools

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Some of RCS’s youngest athletes went toe to toe in the 2024 Dual of the Schools this weekend. The youth wrestling tournament pit young athletes from Pieter B. […]

Dozens turn out for village cleanup

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media As luck would have it, it was a cloudy but rainless spring morning when over 40 people turned out at the Ravena village […]

Social Security Matters: Minister wants to maximize Social Security benefit

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I want to apply for Social Security, but I want to make sure I get all the benefits I have […]

Positively Speaking: Where your feet will take you

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media As a young boy in the gritty streets of Torrance, California, Louis Zamperini was no stranger to mischief. His parents, Anthony and […]

Whittling Away: A full life

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’ve had time to realize that I have a very full life. It might be because it contains so many things that […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – April 25, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – April 24, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

RCS thespians nominated for theater awards

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS High School Drama Club received two nominations for this year’s High School Musical Theatre Awards for their production of “Mary Poppins.” The Drama Club’s crew was […]

Track and field celebrates seniors

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS track and field athletes had their last home meet of the 2024 season Tuesday and celebrated six graduating seniors. “Today […]

Mosher Park Pool free for town residents this summer

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — By all accounts the second joint meeting of elected officials in the town of Coeymans and the village of Ravena was […]

Top 5 winners make our community a better place

By Melanie Lekocevic, Lorna Littleway and Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media For the second year in a row, Capital Region Independent Media put out the call for nominations for […]

Social Security Matters: Older husband and working wife seek guidance

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am 74 years old, retired and receiving Social Security. My wife will be 65 in January of 2025. Our […]

Positively Speaking: Stress with a smile

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I waited tables for quite a while in my early acting days. It’s a common choice for actors because you can work […]

Whittling Away: Now we’re cooking

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’m tired, my back hurts, my hands look like prunes, my shirt is still wet. I had a great time!  We just […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – April 18, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – April 17, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Department honors Kapusta for 15 years of service

COEYMANS HOLLOW  — Fire Chief Bill Kapusta has stepped down as chief  of the Coeymans Hollow Volunteer Fire Corporation after 15 years of service. Kapusta joined the department in 1993 […]

Young tech fans showcase their STEM skills

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media Over the years, the common rooms of the Congregational Christian Church at the corner of Mountain and Main in Ravena have hosted Boy […]

RCS track and field athletes soar

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — For RCS junior Mary McHugh, Tuesday’s track and field meet against Schalmont and Holy Names offered a first — it was […]

Customers line sidewalk for Simone’s Kitchen reopening

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — Eager customers lined the sidewalk outside Simone’s Kitchen as the eatery planned to reopen Wednesday for the first time in two […]

Social Security Matters: Can I claim Social Security and still work?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I will be turning 63 soon. Can I apply for Social Security and continue to work? Would I be limited to […]

Positively Speaking: Mind your own business

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media A close friend of mine shared a fascinating story about a lady in his family from China who lived to be over […]

Whittling Away: Monsoon season

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’m beginning to think there may be something to this idea of global climate change.  It seems that our usual spring has […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald –April 11, 1924 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – April 10, 1889 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Fire department looking for Ravena’s bravest

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena fire department is looking for a few brave souls. The firehouse held an open house Saturday, seeking new volunteers […]

Obituary: Dennis J. Jones

RAVENA – Dennis J. Jones, 66, passed away at his home on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after fighting a long, hard battle with cancer. Dennis […]

GOOD NEWS!: Ravena resident Mabel Klenk marks a century

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — At her spacious home on Pulver Avenue in Ravena, 100-year-old Mabel Klenk accepts visitors. Her hair is white now and she […]

Program: ‘A Good and Noble Thing’ and the life of Anna Ward Perkins, M.D.

RAVENA — On Sunday, April 14, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society will present the last of the winter/spring program series. Guest speaker and author Gerald A. Finin […]

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

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I just saw an article which said that certain spousal options were going away, but there are still good options […]

Positively Speaking: Market volatility

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Growing up, my dad was a huge fan of author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, filling our home with the sound of […]

Whittling Away: School days

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I drove by the elementary school where I spent the best 38 years the other day. Quiet, parking lot empty and no […]

Bronte Roman, contemporary pop vocalist, to perform at Top 5ive Changemakers awards

By Marlene McTigue  Capital Region Independent Media COXSACKIE — Celebrated Latina vocalist Bronte Roman will once again be the featured performer at Capital Region Independent Media’s Top 5ive Changemakers awards […]

Eclipse beginning in Capital Region

By Marlene McTigue and Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media Skywatchers all over the Capital Region have been heading outside this afternoon to watch the solar eclipse. While some areas […]

RCS student-athletes wrap up another winter season

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS student-athletes wrapped up another winter sports season, and the results were impressive. “I could not be more proud of how the season went,” said the Director of […]

Living on Purpose: Christ is risen and what it means for everyone

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Throughout history, no one has made a greater impact than Jesus Christ. So, who is this person called Jesus? He was […]

Positively Speaking: Dress for success

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Growing up, my dad always told me to “dress for success.” But I hardly paid attention. I was the kid with unruly […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Obituary: Kenneth W. Fuller

Kenneth W. Fuller, 37, of Ravena, passed away Friday, March 29. Ken was born March 30, 1986 in Albany, NY.  He graduated from Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School, Class of 2004, and […]

Record number of kids turn out for Easter Egg Hunt

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Everyone had an “egg-cellent” time Saturday. The annual Easter Egg Hunt hosted by Ravena VFW Post 9594 drew a record-setting number […]

Refurnishings: A new beginning

Staff report RAVENA — There is a national foster care crisis in the U.S., with a reported 391,000 kids in the foster care system but only 208,823 licensed foster homes, according […]

Christians demonstrate faith on annual Cross Walk

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A small band of the faithful walked through the village on Good Friday to commemorate the walk of Jesus to the […]

Discover RCS promotes local community

Staff Report COEYMANS — It was standing room only at Yanni’s Too restaurant when the RCS Community Business Association gathered to celebrate the launch of Discover RCS, a multi-pronged community […]

Dirt Central | Chasin’ Racin’: Port Royal Speedway: Speed Showcase Weekend

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Well, race fans, it is that time of year again. The race season will soon be here in the Capital District. Race […]

Easter Egg Hunt is on its way

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The annual Easter Egg Hunt has evolved into one of the community’s most beloved traditions. Held outside Ravena VFW Post 9594 […]

Community bids farewell to ‘legendary’ RCS coaches

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK —  It’s the end of an era — after creating a “football dynasty” with a combined 100 years of coaching experience, three […]

Social Security Matters: How do survivor benefits work for a married couple?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  How does Social Security handle the death of one spouse? Say, for example, the husband receives $2,000 per month in […]

Positively Speaking: Plant life

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media They silently witness our lives every day, yet we scarcely acknowledge their presence. As we hustle through our days, our eyes might […]

Whittling Away: March: A ‘tween’ month

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s March. March is not one of my favorite months. Telly, my trusty canine companion, loves the occasional light coating of snow […]

Celebrating Maple Weekend in our own backyard

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Every March, New York state celebrates the vibrant maple industry, and local residents don’t have to go very far to enjoy […]

GOOD NEWS!: Innovation Station builds in-demand tech skills

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media So, what are your kids up to after school on any given weeknight? Watching TV, playing video games? Here in the town […]

Two Dems on ballot for two open seats on village board

By Marlene McTigue Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Ravena village elections are taking place today, March 19, from noon to 9 p.m. Only two candidates will be on the […]

Ganley opts not to run for re-election

By Marlene McTigue For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The village board will bid farewell to one of its board members come April. Village Trustee Joe Ganley has opted […]

Local business association sees record growth

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Never say…

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

Whittling Away: In case of emergency…

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

RCS district clarifies future focus

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

Faith and community pulled them through

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

Great Migration has profound effect on history of Coeymans

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Starting over

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

Whittling Away: Routines

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

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

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

Rescue squad bids farewell to retiring chief

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Forgive and forget

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

Whittling Away: My, how things have changed

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Obituary: Susan B. Carhart

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

Elected officials gather to plot a course for the future

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Dreams versus visions

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

Whittling Away: Aging

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Debate reopens on town’s paper of record

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

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

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

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

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

Acomb headed to state wrestling championship

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

Business association hosts Marketing Matters event

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Learning from loss

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

Whittling Away: Daydreaming

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

One dead in village fire

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

Obituary: Anthony Gatt

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

College & Military Corner

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

RCS takes 2nd in Section 2 Class CC tournament

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

The Great Migration and Riverview church

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

Friends group in the works for the RCS library

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: The obstacle person

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

Whittling Away: Life is not fair

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

RCS facility dogs pass Canine Good Citizen test

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

Girls’ basketball wins one, drops two

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

Longtime state senator retiring

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

Donnelly seeks to revive Conservation Advisory Council

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

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

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Remember when you were young

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

Whittling Away: Signs

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Indians wrestlers are Colonial Council champions

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

Local writer releases Kindle book series

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

Local students named to fall dean’s list at HVCC

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

Police: Man robbed at gunpoint after responding to dating app

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

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

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Animal heroes

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

Whittling Away: School days

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Obituary: Deborah Griffith

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

Senior Night for RCS Wrestling

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

DEC urges anglers to be safe this winter

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

Town officials spar over Code Red

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Leadership

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

Whittling Away: Ice skating

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Coeymans Hollow loses a local hero

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

Indians finish 9th in Jamie Mormile Tournament

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

Village’s lead, copper water pipe report continues

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

MY VIEW: Weight loss journey

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: A comedy of errors

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

Whittling Away: Resolutions

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

RCS community selects new Ravens logo

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

RCS Artist of the Month

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

New town officials take oaths of office

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

Heavy snow may be on the way

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Social Security Matters: Are spousal benefits always a factor?

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

Positively Speaking: Better late than never

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

Whittling Away: Creative resolutions

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

Varsity girls, JV boys compete in RCS wrestling tournament

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

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 1

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

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 2

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

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 3

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

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 4

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

DEC taking over as Carver project lead agency

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

Countdown of Top 5 Stories of 2023: Number 5

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

Library exhibit pairs art and nature

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Soaring beyond the limits of legacy

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Town’s appeal of Long Energy court decision continues

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

Exhibit shines light on ‘The Church That Prayer Built’

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

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

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

Crowd spills out into street for Carver hearing

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

Lunch with Santa brings out a crowd

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

Kids enjoy sweet treats with Santa

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

RCS Athletic Hall of Fame inducts 16 in Class of 2023

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

RCS wrestlers compete against Salem-Cambridge

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

Girls’ hoops comes up short against LaSalle

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

Historical Society’s Holiday Open House set for Sunday

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

RCS district to begin budget process

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: The law of averages

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

Whittling Away: Too young to be old

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Lithium-ion battery ignites motorcycle

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

Wrestlers hit the mat in two tournaments

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

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

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

Dog park plagued by noncompliance

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

Art contest is final mascot step

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: We become what we think about

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

Whittling Away: Christmas Past

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

Obituary: Joseph S. Farinelli

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

13 years of serving struggling residents with dignity

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

Town purchases church building for $450K

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

Obituary: Jim Carroll

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

County releases final, official election results

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

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

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

Senior Projects thanks donors for new vehicles

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Power of the subconscious

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

Whittling Away: Thanksgiving

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

Protecting Democracy Through Local Journalism

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

Democrats sweep town council races in close contests

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

Ravena Fire recruiting young heroes

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

Vote recount to determine supervisor’s race

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

End of an era as Revs. Booth retire from Riverview

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

Election results too close to call

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

Indians headed to championship game

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

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

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

Four on ballot for two town council seats

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Arguments

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

Whittling Away: Financial savvy

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Chili cook-off offers tasty way to help seniors

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

Magnolia Circle closed to traffic for spooky yet safe Halloween

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

Indians steamroll past Gloversville 55-0 in first playoff game

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

Coeymans’ bravest looking for heroes to join their ranks

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

Former Bush’s store to be redeveloped by new owner

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

Collins, Geoghegan on ballot for county Legislature

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Personality

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

Whittling Away: Telephones

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

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

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

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

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

Indians finish regular season with undefeated 8-0 record

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

Winter 2023-24 RCS sports registration begins

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

McHugh, Donnelly vie for town supervisor’s seat   

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Finding meaning in life

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

Whittling Away: Feeling contrary

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Police: Bethlehem schools locked out in ‘swatting’ incident

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

RCS survey: Input sought on district’s progress

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

McCoy unveils proposed county budget with tax rate drop

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

Indians’ winning streak hits 7

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

RCS’s wrestling stars of tomorrow

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

Trespassing charge leads to local controversy

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Consistency

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

Whittling Away: This will be brief

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

Bethlehem industries to recognize Manufacturing Day at RCS football game

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

Village scarecrow contest puts creativity to the test

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

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

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

RCS unveils new name: the Ravens

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

Selkirk woman faces illegal weapons, child endangerment charges

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

Class of 1973 returns to see a new generation of education

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

Social Security Matters: Federal taxation of Social Security benefits

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

Positively Speaking: Embracing uncertainty

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

Whittling Away: In Bag Balm we trust

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Final 350th anniversary events close out year of festivities

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

Girls’ volleyball team raises funds for cancer research

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

Young girl still missing

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

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

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

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

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

Supervisor’s Message: 2024 Budget Message

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Use it or lose it

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

Whittling Away: Choices

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Final 350th anniversary event this weekend

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

DEC announces start of small-game hunting seasons

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

Friday night football

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

Craft fair showcases local talent

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

Indians’ streak continues with 41-6 win

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

The Little Red Schoolhouse Open House, Sept. 24

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

Final survey to pick new team name is out

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Conceive, believe, achieve

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

Whittling Away: Where did white paint go?

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Lord’s Acre Auction and Fair turns 67

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

Innovation Station opens doors to a high-tech future

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

Indians undefeated after 48-0 shutout

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

Residents air concerns over converting church to town hall

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

Police warn of phone scam

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

Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Muldoon

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: When one door closes…

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

Whittling Away: Supermarkets aren’t for wimps

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

RCS dominates in 2nd game of season

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

Obituary: Harriet Gill-Miller

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

Public hearing on church building next week

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

Whittling Away: Technology

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: Friend to foe

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Coeymans Landing restroom bid comes in at $377K

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

Homeowners: No sidewalks needed here

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

History program: ‘Jacob Parish, Who?’

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

Supervisor’s Message: September update

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: The power of ‘no’

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

Whittling Away: Diet, diet, diet

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Wildlife all around us

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

Innovation Station training STEM leaders of tomorrow

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

Va. man returned to NY on Bethlehem arrest warrant

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

GOOD NEWS!: Friendship Festival unites a community

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

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

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

Friendship Festival: Time to make memories

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

Little Red Schoolhouse schedules fall open houses

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: The dream thief

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

Whittling Away: Yard sales

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

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

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

Obituary: Joyce M. Olmsted

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

Grace UMC on the table as new town hall

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

GOOD NEWS!: Ravena teen is nationally ranked cornhole player

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

Friendship Festival returns next weekend

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

Ravena Fire hosts steak dinner, Aug. 18

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

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

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

Positively Speaking: The three C’s

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

Portals to Heaven: Innocence

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

Whittling Away: Gardening

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

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

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

Lawson Lake hosts county’s first-ever Recovery Picnic

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Lawson Lake on Saturday hosted Albany County’s first-ever Recovery Picnic. The event, the first of its kind in the area, […]

Discovery Camp offers fun and learning for local kids

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Local youngsters spent four weeks this summer learning about everything from art to cooking to math. Approximately 280 students participated in […]

District looks at impacts of artificial intelligence on education

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Technology is changing at a rapid pace — from Smartboards to distance learning platforms — that have changed the face of […]

RCS team practices gearing up

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The first day of school may be a couple of weeks away still, but team practices for RCS athletes is gearing […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Fonda championship battle

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media It has all come down to just six points for the Fonda Speedway Amsterdam Truck Center Modified Track Championship as Demetrios Drellos […]

WWII historical gem in our backyard

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — There is a historical gem just minutes from Ravena that can bring the experiences of American sailors to life — the […]

Social Security Matters: I’m a veteran. How do I get my extra Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: As a military veteran, I was told that the final amount of my Social Security should be a little higher […]

Positively Speaking: Victories can be deceiving

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Many of us have dreams and aspirations. The path toward these goals can often bring us into a fierce struggle. After much […]

Whittling Away: Designer ‘genes’

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media There’s a basic difference between men and women and it’s not what you might think.  Men tend to be content with things […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – August 3, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – August 1, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

GOOD NEWS!: Holcim, community pull together for Sr. Projects

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — When Senior Projects of Ravena found itself in need of a new vehicle, the organization put out the call, and the […]

National Night Out: Fostering strong bonds and neighborhood solidarity

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media DELMAR — Hundreds turned out at Elm Avenue Park last Tuesday for the annual National Night Out festivities. National Night Out is an […]

DOT unveils plans for new 9W bridge

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — The state on Thursday unveiled plans for a new bridge to be built on Route 9W over the train tracks in […]

APA chicken BBQ, Aug. 24

ALCOVE — The Alcove Preservation Association is sponsoring its annual Take-Out Chicken BBQ on Thursday, Aug. 24, from 4 p.m. until sold out at the Ravena Grange on state Route […]

REVIEW: The Adirondack Theater Festival is back in full swing with ‘Tuning In’

GLENS FALLS — The Adirondack Theater Festival, informally known as ATF, has returned to its iconic blackbox in Glens Falls, New York. The summer theater is about to stage the […]

DOT to host open house on 9W bridge project at HS

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The New York State Department of Transportation will host a public open house on Thursday evening, Aug. 3, to discuss plans to replace the Route 9W bridge over […]

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

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My wife turns 65 in November of 2023. She was born on Nov. 21, 1958. I am a year younger […]

Positively Speaking: Determined to persevere

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media On the road to accomplish your dream, you’re going to have plenty of opportunities to give up. You may have to try […]

Whittling Away: In the kitchen

Today I whipped up a batch of muffins. No one would believe that I had produced these fat, warm little beauties, in fact I was accused of trying to steal […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 27, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 25, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Susan M. Weisenburn

SOUTH BETHLEHEM – Susan M. Weisenburn, 89, passed away on Friday morning, July 28, 2023, at Delmar Center after a long illness. Sue was born in Albany on Aug. 3, […]

New team name, mascot narrowed down to three

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — What will be RCS’s new team name and mascot? The “Indians” name is in the process of being retired after the […]

Town hall repair project draws few public comments

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town council held an informal public hearing July 27 to gauge the community’s position on repairing the town hall building, […]

Elementary, middle school to get free meals for all

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Three of the RCS district’s four schools qualified for a federal program that provides free breakfasts and lunches to all students […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 20, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 18, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Social Security Matters: Will WEP and GPO affect my wife’s spousal benefit?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty:  My wife worked for the U.S. Postal Service in New York for about 22 years, and then in the private […]

Positively Speaking: Those who came before

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Take a trip down memory lane to when we were kids. Everything was fresh and new. We watched the world in awe […]

Whittling Away: Siblings

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I had the great good fortune to have started life as an only child. This blissful condition lasted for two years, during […]

Traveling farm makes Mosher Park stop

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — A traveling farm made a stop at Mosher Park last Monday and kids lined up to meet the animals. The event […]

GOOD NEWS!: Mosher Park Pool: 50 years of family fun

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Families have been making memories at the Mosher Park Pool for more than five decades. And even before that, what is […]

Collins spearheads vehicle purchase for Senior Projects

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Senior Projects of Ravena delivers thousands of meals every year to homebound seniors in southern Albany County, but they can’t do […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Back on track

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Well, Chasin’ Racin’ lives on. We just had to take some time away, but we are doing much better and ready to […]

Chick-fil-A opens at New Baltimore rest area

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — After a delayed opening, Chick-fil-A opened its doors at the newly renovated New Baltimore rest area on the New York […]

Social Security Matters: My state pension eliminated my Social Security survivor benefit

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My husband of 21 years died in January 2022 at the age of 70. We were both retired at the […]

Positively Speaking: Bootstrapping

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media One of the prevailing messages in the United States is that anybody can pull themselves up by the bootstraps and create a […]

Whittling Away: Cleaning up

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The larder was getting low so I decided to do a major re-supply trip to the market.  Having the short-term memory of […]

Kids turn out for annual fishing derby

COEYMANS — Families turned out for the annual fishing derby hosted by the R.C. Sportsmen’s Club. The fishing derby, held every June, is now in its 44th year. Held at […]

GOOD NEWS!: Former columnist, volunteer Norma June: A life of service

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — Over more than 50 years of service, Norma June left an indelible mark on her community and last Saturday the community […]

Callanan Industries celebrates 140 years

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — Callanan Industries got its start at a quarry in Selkirk and 140 years later has grown to include sites across much […]

Hundreds in town for NYS championship bike race

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The RCS school campus hosts a major summer bike race each July, but this year there was a new twist to […]

RCS sports registration begins July 21

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The summer just started, but for those student-athletes planning to compete on the field this fall, registration starts as early as Friday, July 21. Registration for varsity and […]

Two cats die in River Road blaze

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media GLENMONT — Two cats died when a fire broke out in a Glenmont home, according to Bethlehem Police. The fire, at a home […]

Town cuts ribbon on $1.4 million park project

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Town officials cut the ribbon Tuesday on the renovated Riverfront Park at Coeymans Landing. The project came with a price tag […]

Social Security Matters: Why can’t I collect survivor benefits from my deceased wife?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am a 62-year-old widower that is still working full-time. While my late spouse was in hospice, I was able […]

Positively Speaking: What you ask of life

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Have you ever read this old yet poignant poem by Jessie B. Rittenhouse? “I bargained with life for a penny, And life […]

Whittling Away: Puttering

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Puttering around is an art form that as a fairly new senior citizen I’m trying to fully understand and participate in. It […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – July 6, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – July 4, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Obituary: Charles Golding

SELKIRK – Charles Golding, 88, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, July 6, 2023. Charles was born in Bennington, Vermont, on Feb. 4, 1935, a son of the […]

Ravena Cement Plant rebrands to join Holcim US family

RAVENA – State and local elected officials, members of the Southern Albany County business community, and area residents recently joined the Ravena cement plant’s leaders and workers to celebrate the […]

Body found floating in river

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A woman’s body was found Tuesday floating in the Hudson River in Selkirk. The body was seen floating in the river […]

Town mulling farm animal law

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town is expected to revise a proposed law prohibiting farm animals and fowl in some areas of the town. Proposed […]

Free Digital Seminar for Local Businesses July 19

Capital Region Independent Media hosts digital seminar for local businesses to help them connect with customers online. UPCOMING EVENT: DIGITAL SEMINAR, JULY 19, 2023 Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2023Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm […]

Mosher Park pool to mark 50th anniversary

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Mosher Park Pool opened its doors last month and returned to a full schedule June 26. The pool will mark […]

Library’s summer reading program gets off to a sweet start

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The RCS Community Library’s summer reading program got off to a sweet start last weekend with an ice cream social. Every […]

Social Security Matters: Income taxes on Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: I just started receiving my Social Security in February of 2023. I am also working part-time at a company 24 […]

Portals to Heaven: Avoiding life’s greatest tragedy

By Robert J. LaCosta For Capital Region Independent Media “If God seems distant, guess who moved?”  This old saying could be putting its finger on background noise. An analogy, or […]

Positively Speaking: Paying tribute to my father

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Father’s Day has already passed, but I wanted to share with you a letter that my father, Gary W. Moore, the founder […]

Whittling Away: Nemesis

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I grew up outside of Malone in upstate New York between North Bangor and Westville.  Our little farm was a mile or […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – June 29, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – June 27, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

The secret gardens of Coeymans revealed

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — What lies behind the fences and tall walls of your neighbors? Area residents had the chance to find out during the […]

Officials: Fixing town hall could cost up to $1M

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Engineers have excavated portions of the town hall building to identify the source of mold that is growing in the structure […]

What you need to know about ticks

By Deborah E. Lans For Capital Region Independent Media There aren’t many reasons to dislike spring and summer, but ticks are one. The blacklegged tick, aka deer tick, becomes active […]

Bethlehem Police equipped with body-worn cameras

BETHLEHEM — On June 19, the Bethlehem Police Department completed phase one of a large-scale project that has equipped officers in the town of Bethlehem with body-worn cameras. The body-worn […]

Social Security Matters: Working widow seeks to maximize Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I was widowed years ago and, when I approached age 60, I looked into Social Security survivor benefits based on […]

Whittling Away: Neatness

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media My life is full. So is my garage, the cellar and my closet.  I came to this conclusion while trying to close […]

Air quality alert issued in all New York regions

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media With Canada still experiencing wildfires, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation again issued a statewide air quality alert Wednesday afternoon. Both the lower […]

RCS seniors rack up awards and scholarships

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district handed out senior awards and scholarships to dozens of students in the Class of 2023. This year’s scholarship awards were given as follows: Emma […]

RCS bus driver honored by AAA

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS bus driver Becky Walker was awarded the 2023 AAA Hudson Valley Safe Bus Driver Award on June 14. The award is given to drivers who present themselves […]

Fourth graders get surprise visit from governor

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Fourth graders from A.W. Becker Elementary School toured the State Capitol Building just before the end of school, with one group stumbling across a chance visit with the […]

RCS graduates look to the future

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Class of 2023 at RCS High School celebrated their graduation Friday evening and now will look to the next chapter […]

GOOD NEWS!: Rescue squad puts lifesaving skills in residents’ hands

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The Ravena Rescue Squad has been expanding its outreach in the community to put life-saving skills into residents’ hands. The squad […]

Reaching a younger generation with the allure of STEM

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics are among the fastest growing sectors of the economy, and students at RCS […]

Social Security Matters: Will work earnings affect my Social Security at age 80?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am 80 years old and I receive monthly Social Security benefits, but I’m thinking about returning to work. At […]

Positively Speaking: The one thing

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media As an individual driven by ambition, I often find myself brimming with the can-do spirit, ready to conquer all that lies ahead. […]

Whittling Away: The passing years

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It’s funny how life reverses itself — the younger you are, the older you want to be.  I can remember distinctly being […]

Town breaks ground on Joralemon Park bathroom facility

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A project that first got its start 20 years ago is finally coming to fruition. Town and county officials broke ground […]

District narrowing down new team name, mascot

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS school district is narrowing down the possibilities for a new team name and mascot, and is asking the community […]

Local church celebrates milestone and history

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A local church celebrated a milestone of its own alongside the town’s 350th anniversary celebration this year. Riverview Missionary Baptist Church […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – June 8, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – June 6, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Social Security Matters: How will working affect my first year’s benefits?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I retired from working in January of this year and have since claimed Social Security. I didn’t work at all […]

Positively Speaking: You aren’t a tree

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Renowned motivational speaker and entrepreneur Jim Rohn said, “There are times when you just lose, no matter what you do; it’s that […]

Whittling Away: Words

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I love words. I’ve always loved words. That’s not a strange statement coming from one who became an almost-famous columnist known near […]

Bear spotted in village, state offers tips to stay safe

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media A black bear was sighted in the village June 13, Mayor Bill Misuraca announced in a statement on social media. There has been […]

GOOD NEWS!: Three RCS athletes taking it to the next level in college

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Three of RCS’s top athletes signed letters of commitment to play their sport at the college level. RCS record-breaker Hannah VanDerzee […]

High-speed chase leads to arrest of Coeymans man

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A high-speed chase that began in Coeymans and ended in Delmar led to the arrest of a local man on numerous […]

5th graders get ready for Moving Up ceremonies

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Fifth graders and school faculty at the district’s two elementary schools are getting ready for a big day — Moving Up ceremonies, as students prepare to make the […]

GOOD NEWS!: Coeymans marks 350 years of history and heritage

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The town turned out in huge numbers this weekend to celebrate the 350th anniversary of Coeymans, culminating in a parade from […]

PHOTOS: Coeymans celebrates 350 years of history

COEYMANS — The town of Coeymans on Saturday celebrated 350 years of history since the granting of the Coeymans Patent in 1673. Here are photos from today’s parade from Main […]

RCS survey eyes new school mascot preferences

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The RCS Central School District received over 800 responses with more than 100 different names from its first rebranding survey that was distributed to the school and community […]

Rain can’t dampen 350th anniversary kick-off

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The weekend’s 350th anniversary celebration got off to a wet start with rain Friday night at Joralemon Park, but it couldn’t […]

Happy 350th anniversary, Coeymans!

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — After months of planning, organizing and hard work, Coeymans’ biggest weekend of the year is finally here. The town is celebrating […]

RCS inducts 21 students into National Honor Society

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravena-Coeymans Selkirk chapter of the National Honor Society welcomed 21 new members — 18 from the sophomore Class of 2025 — in a formal induction ceremony held […]

Social Security Matters: What if I delay but die before claiming Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media  Dear Rusty: Hypothetically, if I plan to sign up for Social Security at 70 and pass away before that, I will get […]

Living on Purpose: What does having a pure heart mean to you?

By Dr. William Holland For Capital Region Independent Media Many are familiar with the beatitudes that are a section of a larger discourse spoken by Jesus in His earthly ministry. […]

Positively Speaking: Late bloomer

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Do good things come to those who wait? I don’t know; I guess it all depends! Growing up, they said my age […]

Whittling Away: Prom

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Not for the first time, I’m glad that I’m not a senior in high school.  The seniors have survived prom but now […]

The Secret Gardens of Coeymans

COEYMANS — On June 22, from 4-8 p.m., a tour of the town’s beautiful gardens will take place as the community continues to celebrate the 350th anniversary of Coeymans. Each […]

A brief history of the town of Coeymans

Submitted by the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society For Capital Region Independent Media The town of Coeymans was formed from the original town of Watervliet, on March 18, 1791, and was […]

Long Energy files suit against town, planning board

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — Long Energy filed suit against the town and joint planning/zoning board of appeals after a proposal to build a bulk fuel […]

Structure fire not deemed suspicious, but arrest is made

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media DELMAR —A structure fire at two apartment buildings at 9 Equinox Court in Delmar was deemed not to be suspicious, but both buildings […]

DEC: Muskellunge fishing seasons opening

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced that the fishing seasons for muskellunge began on June 1 in inland waters and will open June 15 […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – May 25, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – May 23, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

Social Security Matters: I’m approaching 65 – Should I claim Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am fast approaching 65 (in August) and plan to continue working full-time. I would like to know the implications […]

Positively Speaking: Friends

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media In the fabric of life, there is a thread we seldom dare to pull because it seems a little harsh. It’s an […]

Whittling Away: Omnivores

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Bears, humans and beagles have all had the good fortune to have been born omnivores. For those of you who slept through […]

GOOD NEWS!: RCS students strut their artistic stuff

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — RCS’s got talent. And that talent was on full display last Tuesday when the district held art shows at the middle […]

A day of respect, a day of remembrance

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — A crowd gathered outside Medway-Grapeville firehouse Monday to pay tribute and to honor troops that made the ultimate sacrifice. Each […]

New Baltimore welcome center hosts Taste NY milestone

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — The Taste NY program is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2023 and on Thursday marked the occasion at the Capital […]

Town eyes changes to multi-zoned property law

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A public hearing over a proposed new town law governing properties that have multiple zones within them drew pushback from the […]

SABIC promotes sustainability, green economy

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — SABIC is a global company headquartered in Saudi Arabia, but it has plants all over the world, including locally in Selkirk. […]

Social Security Matters: I’m concerned about Social Security solvency

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I retired at age 58. My husband and I worked 40 years of employment each. I had a 401K only…no […]

Positively Speaking: Don’t argue with the naysayer

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media I don’t want to sound negative, but have you ever noticed that when you’re feeling good about something you’re about to do, […]

Whittling Away: Crabby

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media I’m in a crabby mood, which is unusual for one of a naturally sunny disposition.  Things started going sour around five o’clock […]

May business mixer, May 24

RAVENA — The RCS Community Business Association will hold a business mixer on Wednesday, May 24 at 5 p.m. Come on in and mix it up with your friends and […]

New Baltimore service area slated to open within weeks

Site will include area’s first Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media NEW BALTIMORE — The New Baltimore rest area on the New York State Thruway is […]

Ravena Rescue Squad holds two open houses

RAVENA — The week of May 21 through May 27 is National EMS Week. To commemorate this occasion, the Ravena Rescue Squad is pleased to announce they will be hosting […]

Mock car crash teaches dangers of drunk, distracted driving

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The parking lot at RCS High School recently was the scene of a mock car crash with a clear message to […]

Town to mark once-in-a-lifetime milestone

350th anniversary festivities gearing up with parade, concerts and more By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — It’s something you will never see again in this lifetime — […]

Shooting threats scrawled on RCS wall

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — School officials are looking into a pair of incidents this week of threats written on the wall at the RCS Middle […]

Recycle Day collects 80K pounds of unwanted items

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The annual Recycle Day event was held Saturday, enabling town residents to dispose of 80,000 pounds of unwanted items free of […]

Social Security Matters: Should octogenarians tell Social Security they married?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: We were married two years ago at ages 78 and 81. Do we need to do anything with Social Security?  […]

Positively Speaking: Stoics

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media A few years ago, I spoke with a friend who enthusiastically shared his newfound interest in Stoicism. Puzzled, I inquired, “What’s that?” […]

Whittling Away: Gas prices

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The price of gasoline just hit home. It has been sneaking higher and higher each time I fill my car, so the […]

Budget approved by voters, three elected to BOE

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Voters approved the RCS school budget for the 2023-24 school year with 565 in favor and 239 against. The $53,548,486 budget […]

GOOD NEWS!: CROP Walk raises thousands for local, global hunger

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — About 70 church parishioners walked through the village last Sunday raising money and awareness of hunger on both the local and […]

Voters to decide on $53.5M budget Tuesday

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Voters on Tuesday will cast ballots to approve or reject a proposed $53.5 million budget for the RCS school district for […]

Four candidates vie for 3 board of ed seats

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Four candidates will be on the ballot May 16 in the RCS board of education election. Candidates presented their ideas and […]

SADD to host mock crash at RCS

RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The novelty of holding a set of car keys is liberating for a young driver, but it also carries a heavy set of consequences when not maintained with […]

Positively Speaking: Placing blame

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media We’ve all been tempted to point fingers at others for the hurdles we face. Certain actions by people can indeed create stumbling […]

Whittling Away: Spring

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media Spring has arrived in our yard with all the subtlety of a pink bulldozer.  The gardens that I raked just a couple […]

Selkirk plane crash sends 3 to hospital

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media SELKIRK — A small plane crash Thursday afternoon sent all three occupants to the hospital. The crash took place around 3:42 p.m. Thursday […]

GOOD NEWS!: A future Olympian in our midst?

Nationally ranked BMX freestyler sets sights on the future By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The community may very well have a future Olympian in its ranks. […]

News from the Past in Memory of Harry A. Sturges

News Herald – April 27, 1923 – F.E. Bleezarde, Publisher Coeymans: Ravena: Coeymans Herald – April 25, 1888 – S.H. & E.J. Sherman, Proprietors

2nd annual festival celebrates local art, music talent

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The parking lot of Village Hall was transformed into a celebration of local artistic talent this Saturday. The second annual We […]

Indians on 4-game winning streak

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Indians baseball team is on a four-game winning streak. The run started when the team defeated the Cohoes Tigers by […]

Bethlehem man charged in child porn investigation

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media BETHLEHEM — A Bethlehem man has been arrested in connection with a child pornography investigation, according to state police. Jason Sammon, 39, of […]

Wrestlers take 4th in Ravena Fury tournament

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — The Ravena Fury took fourth place in the annual Ravena Fury team dual meet tournament, held at the RCS High School […]

CROP Walk set for Sunday at Mosher Park

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The annual Ravena CROP Walk will be held this weekend, with walkers beginning and ending at Mosher Park in the village. […]

Social Security Matters: Social Security benefits for minor children

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I will be 62 in 2024 and am considering starting benefits at that time. I will have two children under […]

Positively Speaking: Solitude

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the business of family, work, holidays, kids, illnesses, friendships and countless other […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Fonda’s Jumpin’ Jack and Malta Week 2

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Capital Region race fans were once again treated to some great weather and even better racing at Albany Saratoga on Friday and […]

GOOD NEWS!: Alcove Day draws rain, but also volunteerism

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media ALCOVE — Rainy weather pretty much all day long may have deterred some people from putting on their annual yard sales Saturday, but […]

Long Energy project at impasse after tied vote

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — The Long Energy project that would build a fuel storage facility on Route 101 appears to be at an impasse after […]

RCS basketball alumnus inducted into state Hall of Fame

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — Curtis Blackmore’s name will forever be remembered on the basketball court at RCS High School, and now his name is also […]

Flach named Firefighter of the Year

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS HOLLOW — Jordan Flach has been named Firefighter of the Year at the Coeymans Hollow Volunteer Fire Corporation. Flach was honored for […]

DEC: Spring is a good time to target panfish

When it comes to fishing in the early spring, trout are usually the main act, but it can also be a good time of year to target panfish species such […]

Public hearing eyes $53.5M school budget

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA-COEYMANS-SELKIRK — A public hearing and meet-the-candidates night has been set for next Wednesday. The hearing will be held May 3 at 6 […]

Social Security Matters: Why can’t I get Social Security Disability on my own or my husband’s record?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: I am considered disabled by state of Washington doctors, but Social Security has turned me down three times when I […]

College & Military Corner

Sharon Curtis, of Delmar, was among the top-performing students inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society in a recognition ceremony at SUNY Delhi in April Phi Theta Kappa is [...]

Positively Speaking: The power of a smile

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media How much do you think a smile is worth? Is it measured in wealth, fame or beauty? Some of us might think […]

Whittling Away: Downsized

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media It all started with toilet paper.  A couple of years ago, I started noticing that despite the ads to the contrary, the […]

GOOD NEWS!: Hildebrandt takes flag football on the road

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — Local resident Jackson Hildebrandt is a rising star in the game of flag football, and has even taken his talents on […]

Volunteers clean up streets for Earth Day

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — More than 30 volunteers from the village and town turned out Saturday to clean up local streets in celebration of Earth […]

Man charged with raping town woman he met on social media

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A Rhinebeck man is accused of raping a Coeymans woman he allegedly met on social media, according to the Coeymans Police […]

Obituary: Samuel Lambert Jr.

Samuel Lambert Jr., at the age of 81, on Saturday, April 15, walked into the welcoming arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Born in Torrington, Connecticut, he was the son […]

Social Security Matters: What can I earn in my first year collecting Social Security?

By Russell Gloor For Capital Region Independent Media Dear Rusty: My 62nd birthday is in late August of this year. I would like to start collecting Social Security, but after […]

Positively Speaking: Remember names

By Toby Moore For Capital Region Independent Media Picture this: You’ve been granted an opportunity to travel back in time and you find yourself face-to-face with none other than Napoleon […]

Whittling Away: Licenses

By Dick Brooks For Capital Region Independent Media The other day I went to sit at the kitchen table for a second cup of coffee and fell off my wallet.  […]

Neighborhood association forms for community improvements

By Melanie Lekocevic Capital Region Independent Media COEYMANS — A nascent grassroots group has formed to present a united front and seek changes in the community. The Coeymans Neighborhood Association […]

Chasin’ Racin’: Orange County STSS Hard Clay Open       

By Mark Kane For Capital Region Independent Media Well, race fans, here we go again for another year of Chasin’ Racin’ and I did just that heading to the historic […]

Horses of Unbridled: The real rescue story of Creative Design

By Susan Kayne For Capital Region Independent Media “Changing Your Life One Story At A Time” is the registered trademark of the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series. Creative […]

Senior Projects: Rebuilding after COVID

By Melanie Lekocevic For Capital Region Independent Media RAVENA — The years-long COVID-19 pandemic hit many businesses and populations hard, but perhaps none more so than seniors and the organizations […]