Attention all true crime buffs! Join us April 13 for a unique virtual talk with Dr. Christina Lane, the program director for the Cold Case Analysis Center at the College of Saint Rose.
The only center of its kind in New York State and one of six nationally, the Cold Case Analysis Center (CCAC) allows selected students from the criminal justice, behavior and law, forensic science, and forensic psychology degree programs to work on true cold cases, addressing a mounting problem in the criminal justice system.
The program’s interns are currently working on unsolved homicides and missing persons cases. These cases stretch back decades — the focus is to spread awareness and keep these stories alive. Student participants also see the human side of the cold case problem by working with local nonprofit agencies on fundraisers related to the problem.
The Cold Case Analysis Center, in partnership with WGY and iHeartRadio, has been featured in investigative podcast Upstate Unsolved, going beyond the headlines of Upstate NY’s unsolved crimes.
Most recently, the CCAC has taken on the missing case of Jaliek Rainwalker. On November 2, 2007, Jaliek at age 12, went missing from his residence in Greenwich, New York. In 2012, the case was elevated from “missing child” to “probable child homicide.”
Cold Case Analysis with Dr. Christina Lane takes place over Zoom Wednesday, April 13, at 7 p.m. Registration is required. Visit bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up.
Paths for paws
Author and hiking enthusiast Alan Via returns to the library Wednesday, April 27, for an in-person discussion of his book “Doghiker: Great Hikes with Dogs.” A book sale and signing will kick things off at 6:30 p.m. with the regular program beginning at 7 p.m. A chance for questions will follow, along with additional time for book signing.
Much more than a guidebook showing readers great places to hike with their canine companions in upstate New York, “Doghiker” is a dog owner’s operating manual and tool kit. A lifelong dog owner, Via makes a strong case for responsible ownership and offers guidance on selecting a canine hiking companion, training, safety, appropriate gear, canine first aid, and keeping your dog fit and healthy.
Covering the Adirondacks through the Catskills, and areas in between, his guidebook includes 77 beautiful hikes that are great for dogs. Each hike has a custom topographic map showing parking areas, trails, viewpoints, water sources, and other points of interest. Included is all the information readers need to easily evaluate which hikes are most suitable for them and their canine companions as they get outside and explore the great outdoors.
Via is a Slingerlands resident, winter 46er and has also written the hiking guide “The Catskill 67: A Hiker’s Guide to the Catskill 100 Highest Peaks Under 3,000 Feet.” He has hiked extensively throughout the United States and Canada.
Space is limited. Visit bethlehem.librarycalendar.com to sign up.
Recycling event for residents
The Bethlehem Central School District Green Team, Delmar Farmers Market and Grassroot Givers have teamed up to host a Spring Recycle Fest Saturday, April 9, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem.
Stop by for secure document shredding, and recycling of books, textiles, bicycles and more. Visit www.townofbethlehem.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=1030 for more information.
Test at home
Got the sniffles? It’s allergy season, and some of those symptoms can mimic those of a COVID-19 infection. A simple, at-home test can give you some peace of mind. Pick up a free COVID-19 test kit at the library while supplies last. The kits are being made available through Albany County and the Town of Bethlehem, NY Emergency Management Office. Stop by the library and ask for one at the Information Desk or request one for curbside pickup. For more information, give us a call at (518) 439-9314 or email [email protected]
— Kristen Roberts
