Podcasts about capital district

Thom Francis welcomes poet, author, and artist Elizabeth Gordon who shared her work at the Year in Review event at The Linda, WAMC's Performing Arts Center in Albany on December 17, 2022. +++++ Since 2021, the Hudson Valley Writers Guild has hosted the Year in Review poetry event to highlight the poets and writers in the area while looking back at the year that was. In 2022, I was joined on stage by five other local writers for the second annual Year in Review at the Linda, WAMC's Performing Arts Studio. Today we are going to hear from one of those writers - poet, author, educator, and artist Elizabeth Gordon. Elizabeth K. Gordon is a college literature instructor based in Cohoes, New York, and the author of two books: Love Cohoes and Walk with Us. A pioneer in the local poetry scene, she was a member of the Capital District's first slam team, the Nitty Gritty Slam, representing them at the National Poetry Slam and the Women of the World Poetry Slam (WOWPS). Later, she competed at WOWPS on behalf of New York City's Urbana Slam. Beyond performing, Elizabeth has served as a writing coach and mentor, most recently guiding Troy's Café Euphoria slam team. In addition to her literary work, she is also a painter specializing in abstract art. Local poet Dan Wilcox wrote on his blog about the reading: “Elizabeth Gordon, otherwise known on the Slam circuit as Elizag, not surprisingly brought the performance level up a few more notches with her pieces of radical social engagement, such as her opening piece beginning “It was the Summer tuna cost less than cat food…” & a meditation on shopping with her younger self. She too had a poem about her cellphone, & another an “Ode to My Painting Pants,” followed by the linking alliteration of a poem on Putin. She ended with a poem from memory in her best Slam performance style, “A Hiding Place,” on the shooting at a gay bar in Orlando.”

On Thursday, June 4th, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace is sponsoring a forum on the issue of data centers coming to the Capital District and their impact on electricity and water use. A main focus in the proposal to redevelop the old Kenwood Center in the South End of Albany. Professional engineer Oliver Holmes talks with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. The event will be at 7 PM at the Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea reports on Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace's plans for a forum on June 4th to discuss data centers in the community. Then, Andrea Cunliffe shares voices from the No Kings voting rights Memorial Day rally. Later on, we have retired National Weather Service Meteorologist, Hugh Johnson to give us our weekly weather update. After that, Wei Qin shares her immigration story to the Capital District in this week's Everybody Moves segment. Finally, Sarah Abraham speaks with Ana Joanes, director of the documentary "Wrestling Ghosts," about how trauma relates to mental health.

First, Elizabeth EP Press brings us coverage of Troy City Council's meeting where local law #3 was discussed. The law is meant to regulate the use of automatic license plate readers in Troy. Then, NATURE Lab Co-Director Ellie Irons tells us about this year's media lab component to the youth Water Justice Lab fellowship. Later on, retired national weather service Hugh Johnson joins us to discuss the weather in this week's weather segment. After that, we hear Conner Lee talking with Gaheul Yi as he shares his parents' migration story from Korea to the Capital District. Finally, this week we have the annual Collard City Growers plant swap, so we hear from Azuré and Christian. Co-Hosts: Sean Bernyk and Lennox Apudo Engineer: Kalix Sausville

First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage from the May Day picnic at Washington Square Park where various advocacy groups met to labour rights Then, Marsha Lazurus speaks with Byrdie Kraut & Jared Niemela, the founders of Anicca Bakery about their experience being small business owners. Later on, retired national weather service meteorologist Hugh Johnson joins us on our first weather segment in the month of May. After that, Dr. Thompson talks with Yi Lui about her family's migration story from Britain and Hong Kong to the Capital District in the weekly segment Everybody Moves. Finally, James Mitchell the founder of and president of Young Futures, speaks with Sarah Abraham about how his organization provides children with a space to explore their creative passions. Co-hosts: Lennox Apudo, Sina Basila Hickey Engineer: Kalix Sausville

With the goal to eliminate furniture poverty and restore hope to struggling households, the Capital Region Furniture Bank helps to furnish homes while also diverting furniture from landfills. This is a project of The Homeless and Travelers Aid Society of the Capital District, and Executive Director Liz Hitt spoke with Mark Dunlea and Benno Greene for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. More info: https://www.hatas.org/capital-region-furniture-bank

With spring slowly progressing in the Capital District, botanist Rich Ring with the Natural Heritage program talks with Mark Dunlea about the changes we are seeing. He discusses birds, ephemeral flowers, fireflies, maple syrup, amphibians, and tree leaves.

Mike'l Severe is joined by Tim Verghese from Inside Nebraska for a deep dive into the 2026 NFL Draft! They break down the numbers, the top prospects at every position, sleeper picks, and bold takes — all from inside Let It Fly Sports Bar in the Capital District, Omaha.Topics covered:Why this is one of the strangest drafts in years (only 5 QBs/RBs in the top 100)The strongest positions in this draft: Edge rushers & safetiesWide receiver rankings — Jeremiah Smith, Tetairoa McMillan, Luther Burden III & moreOffensive line deep dive — who's a plug-and-play starter vs. who to avoidDefensive back group breakdown: Caleb Downs, Kamari Ramsey & moreHall of Fame candidate picks from this draft classSleeper rushers, linebackers & running backs flying under the radarEmmet Johnson, Arch Manning hot takes & much more

First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage from the Green Party's annual celebration, Earth Day to May Day. We hear Dr. Jill Stein speaking on various issues, including the current Iran war. Then, Elizabeth Press talks with Sasha Wortzel [wort-ZELL] about the upcoming screening of the documentary River of Grass at the Sanctuary for Independent Media and her workshop after the film. Later on, retired National Weather Service meteorologist Hugh Johnson to talk about Earth Day, Typhoon Sinlaku [Sin-la-koo], and this week's weather. After that, we hear from Wen, an international student at UAlbany, who shares her migration story to the Capital District after having lived in China and Japan. Finally, Troy-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist Delaney of The Belle Curves an alt-country/Americana band The Belle Curves joins us in the studio to talk about their latest album “Tides and Rain”. Co-Hosts: Sean Bernyk, Lennox Apudo Engineer: Kalix Sausville

Troy Indivisible is sponsoring a forum on Sunday April 12, on the NY Health Act from 2 to 4 PM at the Art Center of the Capital District, 265 River St. Troy. This legislation would provide single payer comprehensive healthcare to New York residents. Like Medicare, but better, the Act includes coverage for dental, vision, mental health, hearing, gender affirming care and long-term care. Prof. Ashley Fox on Health Policy at the Rockefeller College at U ALbany talks to Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

The Earth's Greatest Enemy is “A documentary exposé of the world's biggest—and most unaccountable—polluter: the US military. Learn the environmental cost of having a military Empire with Abby Martin." It will be shown three times in the Capital District in the coming week. On Tuesday April 14 Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will show it at the local library. On April 19th it will be at the Friends Meeting House, 727 Madison Ave., in Albany; and tentatively April 21 at SUNY Albany. John Amidon talks about the film with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine, as well as recent arrest protesting drones at the Chreech Airforce Base in Nevada.

First, Mark Dunlea speaks with Paul Stewart of the Underground Railroad Education Center about a lawsuit filed by the organization against the National Endowment for the Humanities following their federal grant cancellation as a result of anti-DEI retaliation. Then, Moses Nagel brings us coverage from the recent No Kings protest in Albany. He talks to protesters about their signs. Later on, retired national weather meteorologist Hugh Johnson joins us to give a recap of the weather this past March and the worrying signs of an acceleration of global warming. After that, as part of the weekly series Everybody Moves, we hear from Jamar as he shares with us his immigration story to the Capital District from Jamaica. Finally, Elizabeth Press spoke to City Council President Sue Steele about Mayor Montello's Public Safety emergency declaration in an effort to push through the renewal of the Flock Safety contract. Co-hosts: Lennox Apudo and Sean Bernyk Engineer: Kalix Sausville

Several housing acts including the Housing Access Voucher Program and the Rent Emergency Stabilization for Tenants Act are either being discussed in the state senate and assembly or being implemented in pilot programs in the Capital Districts. Bebhinn Francis of the National Union of The Homeless joins us to discuss some of these housing-related bills. Speaks w/ Lennox Apudo

First, Mark Dunlea speaks with Ryan Madden of NY Renews on a campaign against Gov Hochul's proposal to build 5 more nuclear power plants across the state. Then, Elizabeth “EP” Press meets with Troy City Council Member Noreen McKee on what the tabled decision on Flock means Later on, we welcome back retired National Weather Service Meteorologist Hugh Johnson Kaila a Capital District local and migrant from Haiti. After that, we have Everybody Moves, our weekly series that profiles the migration stories of our community Finally, HMM producer Anna Steltenkamp speaks with Clayton Brascoupé, Program Director of the Traditional Native American Farmers Association (TNAFA) Co-Hosts: Sean Bernyk and Lennox Apudo Engineer: Kalix Sausville

What if the best real estate deals weren't across the country, but right in your own backyard?   In this episode, we sit down with Allie Keib, founding principal of Keib Capital Property Group, who has quietly built a portfolio of 50+ rental units in the Saratoga Springs, New York area - without raising outside capital or using other people's money.   After spending eight years in corporate financial services in New York City, Allie moved to the Capital Region to start her family and began acquiring and self-managing small multifamily properties locally. Over time, she doubled down on a strategy many investors overlook: growing deep in one market instead of chasing deals across the country.   We dive into the advantages of investing locally, including how proximity creates better deal flow, stronger relationships, and tighter operational control. Allie also shares how networking played a pivotal role in her growth, eventually leading her to co-found the Capital Region Real Estate Investing Association (CRREIA)—which has quickly become the largest real estate investing network in the Capital District.   This conversation is a powerful reminder that you don't need a massive team, outside investors, or a nationwide portfolio to build meaningful wealth in real estate, sometimes the best strategy is to dominate your own backyard and hold great assets for the long term. Book your call with Neo Home Loanshttps://www.neoentrepreneurhomeloans.com/wealthjuice/ Book your mentorship discovery call with Cory RESOURCES

On March 28, more than 2000 events are planned for the last No Kings protest, including several in the Capital District. Local indivisible groups are organizing a protest at 1 PM on Central Ave (near Colvin). Many other events are also planned, including one at the State Capitol. Frances Sweet of Troy Indivisble and local artist Bev Cahill talk about the local events, including protesting the renewal of the City of Troy's contract for FLOCK license reading cameras. With Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage from the protest held at Townsend Park in Albany to protest the joint US and Israel airstrikes in Iran. Then, Sephora Quinones talks with musician Angie Medina about what it means to get musically recognized? Later on, Sina Basila Hickey and Ren Lee of The Sanctuary for Independent Media joins us on air to share what they have planned at the Sanctuary this season. After that, we have our weekly series Everybody Moves. This week we hear from Sena as she shares her immigration journey from Germany to the Capital District. Finally, Mickey Dobbin of Troy Area Labour Federation joins us in the studio to discuss some of the initiatives that the group is currently working on.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea talks with two representatives from WPH about single payer universal health care in New York state. Then, Ren Lee spoke about Frederick Douglass with Lacey Wilson of the Underground Railroad Education Center, the historical figure at the center of the Sanctuary's event Saturday event “Frederick Douglass and the Power of the Black Archives“ Later on, José Cruz of Jazz Latino Inc. will join us to talk about Edward Simon Trio, a musical group performing on Wed. Feb 25 at Union College. After that, All of Us Untitled and Free discuss Black history in the present day and how global events impact the Capital District. Finally, Thom Francis welcomes Mary Panza and Charlie Rossiter to Poets Speak Loud stage Hosts:Sina Basila Hickey and Caelan McPherson Engineer:Caelan McPherson

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea brings us coverage from a recent Troy City Council hearing on the Good Cause Eviction Law. Then, Moses Nagel brings us coverage from the Albany Common Council meeting during which some prominent African American residents in the Capital District were inducted into the New York State Hall of Fame. Later on, Hugh Johnson joins us to discuss the current blizzard impacting the Capital District and to discuss what to expect of the weather this week. After that, Ashanti Adams talks to Gaheul Yi about her grandmother's immigration story from Guyana to the Capital District, as part of the weekly segment Everybody Moves. Finally, we hear from author Amy Godine about her book The Black Woods. The video of this book talk at the Sanctuary was just released to our video archive channel. co-hosts: Lennox Apudo and Sean Bernyk

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea speaks with Blair Horner of NYPIRG about the 2026 state legislative session and the budget. Then, Sean Bernyk talks with Charles Clark III, curator of the Black Adirondack Experience, about one of the featured artists, Fulton Fryar. Later on, retired National Weather Service meteorologist Hugh Johnson joins us to discuss the recent bout of cold weather and what to expect of the weather this week. After that, we have our weekly series, Everybody Moves. This week, we hear from Florian from Haiti about the migration story to the Capital District. Finally, Lavender speaks with Kathleen Crayne, the Marketing Major of the upcoming Flurry Festival taking place this President's Day weekend. Hosts: Lennox Apudo and Sean Bernyk Enginner: Caelan McPherson

In this week's segment of Beyond the Brink (And Fighting Back), Community activist Marianne Achlaoug talks with journalist Rosemary Armao about some of the nuts and bolts of mounting big citizen demonstrations. Achlaoug organized Capital District rallies that were part of the successful national campaign to get Avelo Airlines to back away from working on deportation flights for Homeland Security. She says young people may not be turning out in the big numbers that retirees are, but they are doing their part as are minorities who have to recognize there's a danger to protesting. She says the media could overall do better at portraying the scope and importance of resistance we are seeing across the country, not just in Minnesota.

On Saturday January 17, people from all around the Capital District joined in an interfaith peace walk through the city of Albany. The walk was a prayer for peace throughout the country and the world and called on the wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr. as well as many local civil rights leaders including Alice Green and Colia Clark. As the walkers wound through the city, they made stops at various places of worship and community centers to join in prayers for peace with leaders of all denominations as well as songs and poems. The first voice you hear is one of the organizers, local musician,Taína Asili.

pWotD Episode 3169: Venezuela Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 721,556 views on Sunday, 4 January 2026 our article of the day is Venezuela.Venezuela, officially the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, is a country on the northern coast of South America, consisting of a continental landmass and many islands and islets in the Caribbean Sea. It comprises an area of 912,050 km2 (352,140 sq mi), with a population estimated at 31.3 million in 2024. The capital and largest urban agglomeration is the city of Caracas. The continental territory is bordered on the north by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Colombia, Brazil on the south, Trinidad and Tobago to the north-east and on the east by Guyana. Venezuela consists of 23 states, the Capital District, and federal dependencies covering Venezuela's offshore islands. Venezuela is among the most urbanized countries in Latin America; the vast majority of Venezuelans live in the cities of the north and in the capital.The territory of Venezuela was colonized by Spain in 1522, amid resistance from Indigenous peoples. In 1811, it became one of the first Spanish-American territories to declare independence from the Spanish and to form part of the first federal Republic of Colombia (Gran Colombia). It separated as a full sovereign country in 1830. During the 19th century, Venezuela suffered political turmoil and autocracy, remaining dominated by regional military dictators until the mid-20th century. From 1958, the country had a series of democratic governments, as an exception where most of the region was ruled by military dictatorships, and the period was characterized by economic prosperity.Economic shocks in the 1980s and 1990s led to major political crises and widespread social unrest, including the deadly Caracazo riots of 1989, two attempted coups in 1992, and the impeachment of a president for embezzlement of public funds charges in 1993. The collapse in confidence in the existing parties saw the 1998 Venezuelan presidential election, the catalyst for the Bolivarian Revolution, which began with a 1999 Constituent Assembly, where a new Constitution of Venezuela was written and ratified. The government's populist social welfare policies were bolstered by soaring oil prices, temporarily increasing social spending, and reducing economic inequality and poverty in the early years of the regime. However, poverty began to rapidly increase in the 2010s. The 2013, 2018 and 2024 presidential elections were all widely disputed, with opposition candidates being arrested and/or exiled. This led to widespread protest and international condemnation, which triggered another nationwide crisis that continues to this day. In 2026, the United States captured president Nicolás Maduro. The U. S. announced that it would "run the country" until a provisional Venezuelan administration was in place.Venezuela is officially a federal presidential republic, but has experienced democratic backsliding into an authoritarian state under the Chávez and Maduro administrations. It ranks poorly on international measurements of freedom of the press, civil liberties, and control of corruption. Venezuela is a developing country, has the world's largest known oil reserves, and has been one of the world's leading exporters of oil. Previously, the country was an underdeveloped exporter of agricultural commodities such as coffee and cocoa, but oil quickly came to dominate exports and government revenues. Venezuela struggles with record hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, unemployment, poverty, disease, high child mortality, malnutrition, environmental issues, severe crime, and widespread corruption. U. S. sanctions and the seizure of Venezuelan assets overseas have cost the country $24–30 billion. These factors have precipitated the Venezuelan refugee crisis in which more than 7.9 million people had fled the country by May 2025. By 2017, Venezuela was declared to be in default regarding debt payments by credit rating agencies. The crisis in Venezuela has contributed to a rapidly deteriorating human rights situation.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 02:48 UTC on Monday, 5 January 2026.For the full current version of the article, see Venezuela on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Amy.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea speaks with Bebhin Francis of the National Union of the Homeless about their advocacy efforts to get the county of Albany to increase the support offered to unhoused individuals during the winter. Then, Sean Bernyk talks with Paul F. Cole of the Kate Mullany National Historic Site about the site's history and the iconic labour leader Kate Mullany who organized the first national all-female labour union, the Collar Laundry Union, here in Troy. Later on, Hugh Johnson joins us for our last weather show for the year where we'll have a recap of this year's significant weather events and what's in-store for the weather this week. After that, we have the weekly segment Everybody Moves. This week we hear Joanna Dreby talk to Hoora, a University at Albany alumnus about her immigration journey from Iran to the Capital District. Finally, Marsha Lazarus joins us for a special live interview to talk about the preparations and festivities of this Hanukkah which runs from December 14th to December 22nd.

Angie Pender-Fox, associate executive director of The Food Pantries for the Capital District, joins us to discuss federal challenges around SNAP benefits and what food insecurity looks like in the state. We dive into the state's winter holiday traditions — from holiday carriage rides and ice skating to musical performances and the world-famous Rockefeller Christmas tree.   EXPLORE MORE: nynow.org

Retired National Weather Service meteorologist Hugh Johnson discusses the snow storm that impacted the Capital District in the first week of December. He also talks about how the polar vortex affects winter weather and finally he gives his weather forecast.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, we hear about how labor unions are helping with a mass food distribution in the Capital District on Saturday November 22. Then, we hear about how the US military is the world's largest institutional polluter. Later on, Beyond the Brink discusses the ongoing saga around the Epstein files. After that, we hear about the recent Fall Healing Day at the Sanctuary. Finally, we hear from the co-founder of the Institute for the Musical Arts.

On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Hudson Mohawk Magazine Network Roaming Labor Correspondent Willie Terry attended the 'Capital District Area Labor Federation 18th Annual Appreciation Gala at the Desmond Hotel in Albany. At the event, Natasha Pernicka, Executive Director of Food Pantries of the Capital District, was honored with the CDALF 2025 Solidarity Award for her work with the pantries. Mark Emanatian, CDALF Executive Director, introduced Natasha. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, she will coordinate one of the most significant single-day food distributions in state history in the New York State Capital Region. This Labor segment is part 1 of 4 on all of the CDALF Gala Honorees.

This November, more than 3 million New Yorkers are facing a food emergency. Between the rising costs of groceries and expiration of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, working families across New York are at risk. In the Capital District (and elsewhere), labor unions are working with the Regional Food Bank of NENY and others for a mass food distribution at multiple sites on Saturday Nov. 12. Mark Emanation of the Capital District Area Labor Federation talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine. https://regionalfoodbank.net/2025-thanksgiving-food-distribution-live/

Friday November 14 was another Global Climate Strike by Fridays For Future, the international student climate group started by Swedish activist Greta Thurberg. Earlier in the week the 30th COP began in Brazil on the tenth anniversary of the Paris Climate Accords. In the Capital District, several dozen protestors gathered outside Governor Hochul's 2nd floor office in the State Capitol. We first hear from Ryan, the local Fridays for Future organizer, who talks about getting the City of Albany to join the Non Fossil Fuel Treaty which Chicago recently joined. We then hear from a number of climate activists. WIth Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, a look at complaints about the treatment of students of color in the Schenectady school system from Mark Dunlea. Then, Andrea Cunliffe brings another report from the recent No Kings rallies in the Capital District. Later on, Rosemary Armao continues her conversation about mourning. After that, as part of our election coverage, we hear from Ryan Brosnan, who is running for Troy City Council in District 2 Finally, with Halloween almost here, we hear from Trumaster Trimingham about his Manic Managerie at the Arts Center of the Capital Region for another year of spooks. Co-host: Mark Dunlea $ Benno Greene Engineer: Jalaya Reid

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are public policy and communications expert Theresa Bourgeois, Professor of History and International Relations at Vassar College Robert Brigham, Executive Director at The Alliance for a Hunger Free NY and The Food Pantries for the Capital District, Founder of the NYS Food as Medicine Coalition Natasha Pernicka, and Former Times Union Associate Editor Mike Spain.

Ava Agree of the Jewish Voice for Peace, Albany is in conversation with Hudson Mohawk Magazines Andrea Cunliffe about the SUKKOT Rally in Albany's Academy Park on th 5th of October. This Harvest Holiday creates a SUKKAH , and invites the public to gather in community with JVP to find answers to social struggle in the Capital District and to demand an end to Genocide in GAZA. On Sunday, October 5th from 3:00PM-5PM at Academy Park in Albany NY For further information : albany@jewishVoiceforPeace.org Instagram: JVPAlbany JVP Albany will host a rally inspired by the Jewish harvest holiday Sukkot demanding an immediate arms embargo on Israel and end to starvation and genocide in Gaza.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine: First, Mark Dunlea speaks with the Food Pantries for the Capital District about hunger. Then, for the Peace Bucket, Mark gets an update from Deyva Arthur on the Street Peace Project. Later on, Rosemary Armao explores Freedom of Speech in wake of the Charlie Kirk killing. After that, Andrea Cunliffe speaks about Jane Austen ahead of the Oct. 4 celebration of her works at Cafe Lena. Finally, we hear about Taíli Asili's Fever Pitch multimedia event taking place at the Sanctuary this Saturday Oct. 4.

Across the Food Pantries of the Capital District 73 coalition members, service levels are up five percent over this time last year, when its members collectively served more than 104,000 people, including more than 28,500 children. Food insecurity in the Capital District is an escalating problem. The group's annual fundraiser, the Harvest Evening Celebration, is taking place this year on Thursday, October 23, at Franklin Plaza in Troy. Natasha Pernick, ED of FPCD, talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

As President Trump openly increases his push to institute authoritarian rule, throughout the Capital District at high traffic points, groups of concerned residents gather weekly to hold up signs to protect democracy and free speech, oppose the crackdown on immigrants, defend the environment, and to call to respect the rule of law. One of these weekly protests takes place in West Sand Lake in suburban Rensselaer County at the intersection of Routes 43 and 150 on Thursday during the rush hour from 4:30 to 6 PM. We hear from Eric Blasenheim, Susan Poisson-Dollar, and Al Hicks. By Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

The theatrical experience starts as soon as you walk in the door and collect your tickets. Jeffrey Hocking has been the box office manager at Schenectady Light Opera Company (SLOC Musical Theater) for 10 years and has many stories to share. Jeffrey also manages the Capital District events calendar and announcement/audition mailing list that spreads info across the area to boost support and involvement in the theater community. https://capdisttheater.org/   This episode is sponsored by Harbinger Theatre's production of "Deep Blue Sound" running Sept. 12 - 21 at Steamer No. 10 Theatre.

With the demise of Capital District Solidarity Committee after many decades, the annual labor day picnic in the area is now more formerly sponsored by the AFL-CIO – a little less political but more attendees, including far more children. At this year's event in Latham, we hear from Mike Keenan, former head of the Troy Area Labor Council; professor Peter LaVenia and Green Party state co-chair; Sean Collins, present head of the Troy Council; picnic co-coordinator Doug Bullock; IWW organizer Greg Giorgio; Bebhinn Francis of the National Union of the Homeless; US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand; State Senator Pat Fahy; Jennifer Beylo, the Nurses President at Albany Med; and long time labor activist Fred Pfeiffer.

In this episode, Tim and Jean sit down with Rosemary Mix, president of the Capital District chapter of Wild Ones. That's a national organization that was an outgrowth of Douglas Tallamy''s idea for a “Homegrown National Park” whereby individuals planted their gardens with native plants to make a network of pollinators and a healthier ecology nationwide. The idea became the “Wild Ones” organization in 1977 at a native landscape conference. There are now over 100 chapters in 36 states, with nineteen thousand members. The pandemic resulted in a huge boost in membership, and a lively website encouraged more growth. The local group holds an annual plant sale at Thacher Park, a seed swap in November, and a series of educational programming via zoom all winter. Membership in the local group also offers “cozy chats”, informal gatherings to talk 'natives' during the winter, a speakers bureau, and meet and hike sessions. They are working on creating a demonstration garden at Guilderland Unity Lutheran Church. The planned design is posted on-line at the national website. There are many designs available on the website with guidance available, from lists of plant sources, designers, criteria for good design, and ideas beyond gardens. Planters, pots and other containers can serve to grow natives, and natives are not just annuals and perennials. There is advice on native trees and shrubs. The website even discusses the differences of opinion between mere enthusiasts and “purists” who shun nativars, cultivars or even combining native and introduced plants. To visit an established native garden, Rosemary suggests contacting the Sobro Conservancy in Saratoga, which has rescued a vacant lot and made it a pleasant entry to the city. Hosts: Tim Kennelty and Jean Thomas Guest: Rosemary Mix Photo by: Wild Ones Production Assistance: Linda Aydlett, Deven Connolly, Teresa Golden, Tim Kennelty, Amy Meadow, Xandra Powers, Annie Scibienski, Jean Thomas

Bob Sanders is 70 years old and is on the final week of a ride across the country to raise awareness and money to oppose the genocide in Gaza. He is coming through the Capital District this week and will be at the Albany Friends' Meeting House on Madison Avenue on Wednesday August 27 at 6pm for a pot luck dinner and talk. Moses Nagel spoke with him from the road today about his experience.

It's a special edition of No Credentials Required featuring Ryan's guest appearance on "Levack and Goz!" Ryan and Goz tackle a sports smorgasbord in this jam-packed episode! They kick things off with the buzz around the Albany Firewolves' move to Canada, which marks another professional sports team to fail in the Capital District. Then, it's NFL preseason action with a spotlight on the New York Jets and Justin Fields. Plus, the guys dive into fantasy football league plans, the Indianapolis Colts naming Daniel Jones their starting QB, and the ever-changing college football landscape. No Credentials Required is part of Belly Up Sports Media Network. Levack and Goz: "Levack and Goz" can be heard on Fox Sports 980 AM/95.9 FM Albany or on the iHeart app weekdays from 4-7pm ET as well as your preferred podcast app! | https://foxsports980.iheart.com/featured/levack-and-goz/ Belly Up Sports: www.bellyupsports.com | www.youtube.com/@bellyupsports Royal Retros: This episode's affiliate sponsor is Royal Retros! If you're a fan of throwbacks, defunct teams, and teams that never existed, you'll love Royal Retros! Get 10% off your order with promo code CREDHEAD and receive free shipping for every order over $100! | www.royalretros.com Follow No Credentials Required on social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube page for additional content! MERCH! Show the world you're a Cred Head with our Bonfire store! | https://www.bonfire.com/store/no-credentials-required/ Join our Discord for more sports talk: https://discord.gg/WknBEUQY

On July 2nd, Saratoga Springs became the first municipality in the Capital District to ban visible homelessness. Various housing rights advocates from groups such as the CDDSA and Saratoga BLM rallied at the Saratoga City Hall to protest this ordinance, now over 1 month since its passing. (Lennox Apudo)

The Northeast NY Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health (NENYCOSH) is a non-profit membership coalition of workers, unions, community-based organizations, and health & safety professionals using education, training, and advocacy to improve health and safety conditions in our workplaces and communities throughout the Capital District. Rossana Coto-Batres of NENYCOSH spoke with Vinny DamaPoleto and Caelan McPherson about the health and safety risks that young workers face. The Coalition has recently held special training sessions with the Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady Summer Youth Programs.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea talks with The Food Pantries for the Capital District about ways to improve increasing demand for food assistance. Then, Caelan McPherson talks about the efforts to provide support for those with Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities with members of the NVLD Project. Later on, Jacob Boston interviews Hudson Valley Community College's Professor Kohan about teaching and mentorship After that, Nancy Klepsch asks poet Alina Pleskova for a short reading and about her work. Finally, Matt Maginley learns about book binding from Tim James of the Renascent Bookbindery.

The Food Pantries for the Capital District represents 71 emergency food programs in four local counties. They have seen a 42% increase in the demand for food assistance. Natasha Pernicka talks about the need and solutions with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine. https://thefoodpantries.org/

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, Hudson Mohawk Magazine Network Roaming Labor Correspondent Willie Terry attended the Citizen Action of New York - Capital District Chapter, "Open House Celebration," at 94 Central Avenue, Albany. In this labor segment, Willie interviewed Nancy Perini, Citizen Action Capital District Chair, and Eduardo Hernandez, Citizen Action Capital District Community Organizer, about their Open House and future programs.

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Ellie Irons interviews artist Nicole Chochrek on Broken Plastics and working with the Water Justice Lab on the Sanctuary campus Then, Willie Terry speaks with the founders of the Underground Railroad Education Center in Albany about Black communities during the time of James Knapp in the gilded age. Later on, Brad Monkell interviews The E Block, a band from the Capital District. After that, Tali Saxton joins us in the studio to talk about her exhibition with her 7 grandchildren taking place this weekend. Finally, Garret McCarey talks with Sandra Foyt about her book “100 Things to Do in Albany Before You Die” Co-hosts: Sina Basila Hickey & Khin Engineer: Jalaya Reid

Today, on the Hudson Mohawk Magazine, First, Mark Dunlea reports on the proposed greenhouse gas reporting regulations by the Hochul administration Then, we have a special twenty-minute segment with a woman who was caught up in an ICE raid here in the Capital District. After that, an archived segment of Armao on the Brink on government secrecy Finally, Benno Greene talks with Dio Kaufman about an anti-homeless ordinance in Saratoga Springs Co-Hosts: Benno Greene & Mark Dunlea Engineer: Jalaya Reid

With President Trump massive tax cut and budget bill having moved back from the Senate to the House for a final vote, feeding programs are facing even larger cuts. The proposals include shifting some of the costs on to states, which will give them more incentives to deny food benefits to applicants. The Republicans are also seeking to increase the existing requirements related to work and education for SNAP participants, formerly known as food stamps. A recent podcast from Greg Silverman of the Westside Campaign Against Hunger and the Alliance for Hunger Free New York included interviews with several Capital District residents about how their families were helped by the various federal nutrition programs. Greg's full podcast is at https://soundcloud.com/listenwscah/the-albany-allies-episode-14

The Valley Girls - including Rebecca and Danielle from season 2 segments "A Capital Idea" and "The 411 of Westchester" - are joined by Melaine Rottkamp of Destination Dutchess and Hudson Valley Tourism to wax nostalgic about childhood summer fun and share their lists of must-do Hudson Valley summertime activities. Also check out our ideas in our two blog posts to supplement your own summer wish lists - one for the Capital District and one for the rest of the Hudson Valley!Thanks for listening! To help support the Valley Girls, please follow our podcast from our show page, leave a rating and review, and please spread the word and share our podcast with others. We really appreciate your support!To stay up to date and for more content you can find us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠valleygirlspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/ValleyGirlsPodNY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube.com/@ValleyGirlsPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and also check out the Newsletter and Pod Squad tab on our website to sign up for our e-mail newsletter and join ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠so you never miss a thing! All links can also be found in our Instagram bio.Episode music by Robert Burke Warren entitled Painting a Vast Blue Sky can be found at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠robertburkewarren.bandcamp.com/track/painting-a-vast-blue-sky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.