google.com, pub-2480664471547226, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

The Best Gifts from Schoharie County

County Backs Creation of Regional Land Bank

Written By Cicero on 4/21/15 | 4/21/15


Supervisors voted unanimously on Friday morning to endorse the concept of a six-county land bank to be headed by the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District (MVEDD).

Encouraged to support the concept by MVEDD representative Steve Smith, the land bank would consist of the six counties that constitute the Mohawk Valley - Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, and Schoharie - and take in tax foreclosed properties to revitalize and then put back into the market. 

The State of New York created ten regional land banks in 2011 with an up front investment of $33 million, which the coordinating agencies used to fix and then sell previously languishing houses. According to Smith, the state is considering adding an additional ten land banks to the program. 

Using the state's initial funds to begin repairs, land banks continue to subsist off of the sale of houses. They receive no taxpayer dollars aside the state investment, and once the properties are sold, they return to the tax rolls at no cost to the local municipalities. 

In addition to Schoharie County, the City of Rome and the Counties of Herkimer and Montgomery have also passed resolutions in support of the six-county land bank concept. 

In other business, the Schoharie Board of Supervisors:
  • Delayed action on utilizing eminent domain to rebuild the Shady Tree Lane Bridge until the May county board meeting. The delay was requested by County Attorney Mike West, who said the completed appraisals have still not been sent to the county.
  • Heard from AECOM representative Patty Flores that crews are working on all four sites, with Platterkill Creek expected to be wrapped up by June, followed by Dave Brown Mountain, Line Creek, and the Little Schoharie. 
  • Voted to recognize the life and efforts of former Schoharie Town Supervisor William Vedder, who recently passed away. Vedder had served only one term, 1996-1998. His wife and daughter were present for the county board's recognition. 

Letter to the Editor: Zoning and Democracy are Compatible

Dear Editor,

The last paragraph of Bob Nied's letter explains the practical necessity and utility of zoning. The Town of Schoharie's 2005 Land Use Law rewrite, struck down by the court only because it was improperly filed at the time it was passed, was designed from a long-range comprehensive plan 8-9 years in the making.  The plan grew from lengthy surveys filled out by town residents on the way they'd like to see their community grow.  

The late John Poorman, the highly respected long-time chair of the Capital District Transportation Commission, shared with me that Scoharie was one of the few locales in the entire country where town and village governments had worked cooperatively to formulate a shared vision for the region's future.  He felt people didn't fully appreciate the rarity and worth of our community's capacity to work toward common goals.

The Town Council thought it wise to revisit and rewrite segments of the Land Use Law, leaving out any public input until they have tweaked it to members' satisfaction.  Only then will they present it at a public hearing.

Richard Sherman is one of the Councilmen contributing to this rewrite.  In response to Bob Nied's debunking of the rhetoric against zoning, he writes, "Every time a zoning regulation is written it infringes on someone's rights to use their property as they see fit …  I believe that any time you restrict a persons ability to use their property as they see fit is a bad thing to do."  Really?

That is an extreme view, one I'd frankly shrug off as inconsequential were Richard not helping revise a Land Use Law built from input from the Schoharie citizens.  Civilization requires us to live alongside others.  The presence of laws is a recognition that pure freedom of the sort Richard advocates often results in societal mayhem.  Schoharie's zoning laws were conceived through a logical, thoughtful progression, not from on high from the wealthy or powerful.  They grew a from a desire to protect the historical richness of our town and village, a contemplation of what positives make our community livable, and from a respect as to why those of us who chose to move here did so. As one who moved here 37 years ago to raise his family, my only agenda is to uphold those qualities.

Plucking away carefully conceived components of that hard-won land use law, or wishing we could do away with zoning altogether in the name of individual rights, is contributing to the collapse of a system that enables us to live sensibly with one another.  I sit on our Village's Planning Board.  It's not a fun job, but we routinely work to help people work to meet local, state, and federal laws related to projects they wish to see through.  Few of us like having rules to follow, or tedious forms to fill out, but these ultimately work to the advantage of our village's progress, and variances are available to accommodate aspects that fall outside the letter but not the logical intent of the law.

Someone -- I'm not sure who, but someone -- owns land adjacent to the Old Stone Fort complex.  I won't speak for Richard, but I'm guessing that he'd agree that the person who owns the property should not be able to erect a high rise apartment complex or a go-kart track on that land just because he owns it and has the money to build either.   

In fairness, this anti-zoning sentiment from Richard surprises and saddens me. Over the past decade, I've heard him argue repeatedly and passionately for upholding the Town's Land Use Law in the face of a company's ongoing attempt to run roughshod over it.  His, and his fellow-councilmen's fatigue in this battle is understandable, but I dearly hope he's not tiring of the righteousness of that fight.  It's a fight far more principled and of credit to him than the one that champions a person's right to do whatever he wants on any land his personal fortune enables him to buy.  

In what universe is that just?

- Tom Smith,
Schoharie, NY

Cobleskill Police Blotter (4/21/2015)

The Cobleskill Police Department has announced the following arrests for the week of April 13th-20th.

Monday, April 13, 2015

At 11:15 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Taylor A. Newman, age 20, of Ballston Spa, NY, for Grand Larceny 3rd and Conspiracy 5th. She was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released.  She is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th at 5:00 p.m.

At 11:40 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Jude M. Shevalier, age 24, of Cooperstown, NY, for Grand Larceny 3rd and Conspiracy 5th.  He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released.  He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th at 5:00 p.m.

At 11:15 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested John M. Frith, age 22, of Bronx, NY, for Petit Larceny.  He was issued an appearance ticket and released.  He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th at 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

At 5:20 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Christopher L. Johnson, age 25, Homeless, for Conspiracy 5th and Grand Larceny.  He was arraignment Cobleskill Town Court and remanded to the Schoharie County Jail on $1000 Bail / $2000 Bond.  He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on June 23rd at 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

At 9:40 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Jonathan A. O'Connell, age 21, of Fort Plain, NY, for Petit Larceny.  He was issued an appearance ticket and released.  He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 5th at 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 16, 2015

At 8:33 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Ashley B. Clark, age 20 of Bronx, NY, for Petit Larceny.  She was issued an appearance ticket and released.  She is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th at 5:00 p.m.

At 8:33 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Tatiana M. Baddie, age 19, of Bronx, NY, for Petit Larceny.  She was issued an appearance ticket and released.  She is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th at 5:00 p.m.

Friday, April 17, 2015

At 3:46 pm, Cobleskill Police arrested Casey S. Becker, female, age 39, of Warnerville NY for Driving While Intoxicated, Operating a Motor Vehicle with .08% or higher, Failure to keep right, and refusing to take a preliminary breath test. She was released on traffic tickets and is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 5th, 2015 at 5:00 pm.



Saturday, April 18, 2015

At 3:00 pm, Cobleskill Police issued a summons to Michael J. Healy, age 18, of Bronx, NY for Possession of an Alcoholic beverage by a person under age 21. He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 5th, 2015 at 5:00 pm.

At 6:54 pm, Cobleskill Police arrested Stephen M. Francis, age 53, of Cobleskill for 2 counts  of Harassment in the Second Degree. He was issued a criminal summons to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 12th, 2015 at 5:00 pm.

At 7:04 pm, Cobleskill Police arrested Brian Zanghi, age 43, of Summit for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd, and 1 other V+T violation. He was arraigned and released after posting $150.00 cash bail. He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on April 28th, 2015 at 5:00 pm.

Registration Still Open for Annual Cider Run

Written By Cicero on 4/20/15 | 4/20/15

The third annual Cider Run, featuring a 10K run, 5K run, and 5K walk will take place on Saturday, April 25, at the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard in Fly Creek, New York.  Runners, walkers, volunteers, and spectators will gather to raise funds and awareness for The Northeast division of The Alzheimer's Association.


The Alzheimer’s Association is a non-profit organization that serves a 17-county area and the 2015 race funds will serve the needs of people in Delaware and Otsego Counties.  Support will aid the local office helping guide families through the Alzheimer’s Journey with information and referrals on local services, individual in-depth care consultations, support groups, education programs and safety services.

The Cider Run includes a scenic 5k fun run and walking course as well as a challenging 10k course. Participation in either event will guarantee you a refreshing and delicious glass of hard or sweet cider at the finish line.  Each course provides spectacular views of the mountains and valleys that surround the Fly Creek Cider Mill.  The 10k run presents an increased challenge and any runner will feel a great sense of accomplishment when completing this course.  

Registration begins at 8:00 AM race day for a 10:00 AM start.  Visit www.ciderrun.com for print-and-bring registration and waiver forms.

Race and Volunteer Coordinator Contact:
Stacie Haynes

Massive Fire Burns 80 Acres in Mburgh, Requires 60+ Firemen to Contain


Over sixty firemen and emergency responders were able to contain a massive brush fire in the Town of Middleburgh on Sunday afternoon, but not before the blaze engulfed over eighty acres of land and an arrest was made. 

Originating from the illegal use of a burn barrel at 1974 Huntersland Road, the fire rapidly spread north west to Llama Lane, where a wildlife rescue facility is operated by Darcy and Wes Laraway. The call came in at 1:33 p.m. 

Photo by Wes Laraway.
Also spreading towards Brooky Hollow Road and Decker Road, a fire perimeter was established after approximately four hours of on the ground efforts. Middleburgh Fire Chief Michael Devlin praised the help of all parties involved. 

Telling The Schoharie News that, "It was scary for me," Mr. Laraway felt safe with all of the fire departments at his property, but conceded it would have been "very difficult to start moving the animals" had the fire spread.

Further commenting that wild animals do not move well in an emergency, Laraway pointed out that it wasn't until he "saw all the ash coming down around our barn I started getting nervous." 

The Middleburgh Fire Department will continue to monitor the hot spots said Chief Devlin on Monday morning, but he believes "at this time we have a strong fire line established." Devlin estimated the damages at $2,500. 

An arrest was made for the open burning during red flag warnings, but as of this morning's publication, no details or arrest information has been released to the media by the Department of Environmental Conservation. 

Assistant Fire Chief Jerry Wayman was in command of the fire scene and oversaw the efforts of 67 firemen and first responders from thirteen fire departments, two ambulance squads, and countless others. One firemen was injured. 

County Moves Forward in bid to Relocate Jail


After years of regulatory back and forth with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Schoharie County is finally making headway in its proposed relocation of the Public Safety Facility from its current location within the floodplain to higher ground.  

Informing Supervisors that a recent meeting was held between FEMA officials, New York State Homeland Security, and himself, Flood Recovery Coordinator Bill Cherry indicated that the federal agency may be open to moving the facility after all. 

FEMA, which has rejected one appeal submitted by the county, and has yet to respond to another, has maintained that the facility should be rebuilt where it stands despite the devastating effects that Irene and Lee wrought upon the building in August, 2011.

Local, state, and federal officials have vehemently disagreed with the agency's position.

Just two weeks ago a press conference was held by Congressman Gibson Gibson, State Senator Jim Seward, Assemblyman Pete Lopez, and others in the empty remnants of the Schoharie County Jail to request FEMA listen to the demands of the county. 

Mr. Cherry commented at Friday's county board meeting that, "By their own federal regulations and operating standards, FEMA must comply with local codes, laws, and floodplain regulations, and New York State has declared that repairing that critical facility in its present location would be a violation of DEC floodplain regulations."

However, Cherry did report that upon hearing the county's continued perusal of a federally approved 428 Alternative Project that would allow the county to relocate the facility on their own within a agreed-upon capped amount of funds, FEMA officials were agreeable to the idea.

Further meetings between county specialists, construction experts, and FEMA's cost estimators are slated to take place over the next week.

Letter to the Editor: Zoning is not the Problem

Written By Cicero on 4/18/15 | 4/18/15

Dear Editor:
Most people have heard about “urban myths” like alligators in the sewer but few realize we have our fair share of rural myths as well. In Schoharie County the number one myth is that the reason the economy is depressed, the reason we don’t attract big box stores and the reason few businesses move here is because we have overly restrictive zoning laws. It is an easy gripe to repeat, fun to say but it is also untrue. The oft repeated refrain that we “chased away Lowes” is a perfect example. Lowes did not reject Cobleskill as a site for one of its stores because of zoning, lack or water or the other familiar claims. It chose not to build because of very carefully conducted demographic studies that demonstrated to Lowes’ executives that Cobleskill could not support a large home center, given many factors including the proximity to similar stores to the east and west.  The population wasn’t here, the median income level wasn’t here and a Lowes in Cobleskill would not be profitable. The latest claim that the proposed zoning law in the Town of Schoharie would prevent economic growth is equally unfounded and not born out by the facts.
Consider for a moment the Towns of Colonie and Latham. There is no shortage of development in either. In fact they are up to their ears in commercial development. If you compare the zoning law in Schoharie to zoning regulations in Colonie or Latham, it quickly becomes apparent that the laws in Latham and Colonie are far more extensive, granular and restrictive. So why do they not look like ghost towns? The answer is simple. Viable businesses adjust their plans to zoning regulations if they believe there is a profit to be made. Zoning didn’t keep business out of Latham, Colonie, Saratoga or dozens of other communities, any more than it would keep business out of Schoharie County. In fact, half of the Towns in Schoharie County don’t even have comprehensive zoning laws!
What keeps business out of Schoharie County is laundry list of problems – relatively low population (small market for goods and services), low median income levels (consumers with little discretionary spending), uneven access to broadband technology (makingInternet transactions difficult), relatively low rates of college and post-graduate education (shortage of senior-level managers and administrators), unprofessional leadership (unfortunate history of political wrangling and scandal) and an absolute lack of progressive planning strategies (reliance on passive, outdated economic development strategies that ignore quality of life issues, non-traditional markets and alternative marketing strategies).
A related rural myth is that things would be better if we could only get another Stewarts or Dollar General. The fact of the matter is that the only way that rural communities stand a chance at thriving is to aim higher than embracing an suburban strip mall mentality. We need to distinguish ourselves from other run of the mill places by making our communities more livable, more walkable, more sustainable, more interesting and more vibrant. We need to start by revitalizing our downtowns into unique destinations that attract families who will stay and invest in the community. We need to encourage unique/one-off small businesses, non-traditional agriculture markets, scenic/eco-tourism, and develop our towns to be more than a drive thru on the way to Albany or Cooperstown. The use of carefully constructed comprehensive plans and progressive performance zoning is not the impediment to that kind of future it is the roadmap to that future; We should let go of the myths and work to our strengths and not make excuses for our weaknesses. Zoning is not the problem, a lack of vision and a lack of leadership is.
Bob Nied
Center for Sustainable Rural Communities

Sheriffs Arrest Mburgh Man on Bench Warrant

Written By Cicero on 4/17/15 | 4/17/15



Schoharie County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Andrew F. Graves, 31, of the Town of Middleburgh on a bench warrant issued out of the Altamont Village Police Department on Wednesday, April 15th at 6:06 p.m.

Mr. Graves was taken in to custody before the Town of Middleburgh Court on the warrant and was then turned over to Altamont PD for further action.

The 1780 Beer Challenge and Revolutionary War Festival Coming to Middleburgh in May


On Saturday May 16th, The Middleburgh Library, The Albany Ale Project, and Green Wolf Brewing Company are hosting a day long (1 pm to 5 pm), family-friendly event celebrating beer, brewing, and Middleburgh's Revolutionary War history. 

The event will be held on Baker Avenue around Green Wolf Brewing Company and behind the Middleburgh Library. Partial proceeds will go to benefit the Library.

Activities include a Revolutionary War encampment, colonial brewing and cooking demonstrations, 18th century toys and games for kids, talks on the history of beer and hopes in upstate New York and the Schoharie Valley, a Schoharie Valley hops display at the library, beer samples from Green Wolf and MacKinnon Brothers, and Green Wolf brewery tours.

Middleburgers BBQ and Under the Nose gift shop and bakery will be offering barbeque and baked goods for sale, while Craig Gravina and Alan McLeod will be selling and signing copies of their book Upper Hudson Valley Beer. The day will culminate with The 1780 Beer Challenge, cask tapping and tasting.

The result of a challenge between the Albany Ale Project, Green Wolf Brewing Co., and MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Co., the beer-infused re-enactment of the 1780 stand off in Middleburgh between New York's Loyalist raiders and the Albany County Militia will be fought this time with hops, grain, and yeast, instead of muskets and cannons. 

Combining forces to create two Revolutionary War-era inspired beers made from locally-sourced, traditional late 18th-century ingredients and historical brewing techniques, the beers will be blind judged against each other by WNYT NewsChannel 13's morning anchor Phil Payly, food and drinks writer Deanna Fox, and Middleburgh Library Director Teresa Pavoldi. 

The winner receives bragging rights and the official "1780 Beer Challenge Champion" barrel head. The loser must hoist their opponent's flag in their respective brewery or taproom. There will also be a People's Choice vote for best beer.

Admission for the 1780 Beer Challenge and Revolutionary War Festival is $15 (for adults 21 years of age and older) and includes beer sampling tickets and a Green Wolf sampler glass, or $35 for sampling tickets, a Green Wolf sampler glass, and a signed copy of Gravina and McLeod’s book Upper Hudson Valley Beer. Admission for non-drinkers, or those 20 years of age or younger is $10. Children and teenagers under 15 are free.

All ages are welcome but you must be 21 to drink.

Opinion: Chamber Takes Step Toward Revitalizing Tourism


Schoharie County is a prime tourist destination with our beautiful mountains, exceptional farmlands, pristine creeks, and an abundance of attractions that appeal to people of all ages from all regions of not only New York, but the entire world. 

We may be biased, as we are a collection of lifelong residents, but Schoharie County sure does look like an easy sell to the outside world. The problem is: it wasn't when the job of promoting all we have to offer rested on county government's shoulders.

Somehow making an easy sell into a bureaucratic mess, county tourism suffered under the direction of former Planning Director Alicia Terry, who was tasked with overseeing promotional efforts in addition to her existing department head duties. 

It was an abject failure from day one that lacked the determination to get the job done and the direction to achieve its intended goals. As such, the ball had been dropped on one of our single most important economic assets, and it was obvious.

There is a bright side, however.

Receiving authorization to once again manage county tourism by the county board last summer, the Schoharie County Chamber of Commerce has given the wounded industry a breath of new life and is setting it upon a path of revitalization. 

Revitalization that has not only been spurred by the appointment of Becky Stark as Tourism Coordinator and the formation of an all encompassing Tourism Committee, but in recent efforts to bring the focus back to Schoharie County. 

Launching a $30,000 television advertising matching program last month, Schoharie County Tourism is offering local businesses and municipalities up to $1,000 in matching funds to shoot, edit, and place destination themed ads on regional stations. 

Pitched as part of a renewed Picture Perfect Schoharie County promotional campaign, the program is a major step in the right direction for county tourism. Not only because it is proactive, but because it is innovative and seeks to put a spotlight on us. 

And that is something worth supporting. 

Gibson Introduces Family Farm Relief Act of 2015

Written By Cicero on 4/16/15 | 4/16/15

Washington, DC – Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) announced the introduction this week of the Family Farm Relief Act of 2015, legislation he authored to move the H-2A Agricultural Visa program from the Department of Labor to the Department of Agriculture to better meet the unique labor needs of farmers and agricultural businesses.

“This is common-sense, constituent-driven reform,” said Congressman Gibson. “I deeply appreciate the guidance of the hard-working men and women who grow our food and protect the rural landscape of Upstate New York. Too many of these farmers face labor shortages—and lost income—due to needless bureaucratic delays. Our bill puts this program in the hands of officials who fully appreciate the demands of running a family farm, simplifying the application process to ensure timely planting and harvests.”

“The Family Farm Relief Act would seriously address a number of our labor needs in New York,” said New York Farm Bureau President Dean Norton. “The bill reduces onerous regulatory burdens, expands the number of farms that can access the H-2A program, and would give farms the flexibility needed to get food from the farm to the dinner table. New York Farm Bureau greatly appreciates the efforts of Rep. Chris Gibson and the other co-sponsors of this bill. They understand that we need more than enforcement to solve our urgent immigration issues.”

Congressman Gibson recently joined 60 other Members of Congress in calling on the House Judiciary Committee to first address needed agricultural immigration reform before moving forward with mandatory E-Verify legislation before the Committee. 

The Family Farm Relief Act of 2015 provides a strong starting point to address this request.  It takes practical measures such as allowing visa applicants to fill out H-2A applications on paper or online, requiring a user-friendly online system, and ending burdensome requirements on advertising and prevailing practice surveys.

“This bill ensures that unelected bureaucrats do not tell our farmers how to advertise for domestic workers,” said Congressman Gibson, a member of the House Agriculture Committee. “Instead of requiring farmers to advertise for help in at least three states, an arbitrary and burdensome requirement, our bill replaces that requirement with a much more workable standard of advertising within 150 miles of the farm.”

The Family Farm Relief Act of 2015 also allows farm cooperatives and other agricultural associations to apply for workers for their members, makes the program more workable for dairy and other livestock operations, and requires reporting to Congress if delays occur in the H-2A Visa application process.

The original co-sponsors of the bill are Representatives Chris Collins (NY-27), John Katko (NY-24), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), Tom Reed (NY-23), and Elise Stefanik (NY-21).

Stamford Pop Up Farmers' Market Seeking Vendors

STAMFORD, NY- The Greater Stamford Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking vendors for its next Holiday Pop Up Farmers’ Market, which is a Pre-Memorial Day market.  The market is scheduled for Thursday, May 21st, from 3:30pm until 6:00pm. The location will be the historic Stamford Railroad Station at 21 Railroad Avenue in the Village of Stamford.  This will be an outdoor market, with some spaces available under a covered platform.
 
This GSACC Holiday Pop-Up Farmers’ Market is timed to precede the long Memorial Day weekend.  It’s the perfect time to celebrate the unofficial start of the summer farmers’ market season.  This local market gives shoppers a direct connection to producers and an opportunity to learn more about locally produced goods and the people who make them. 
 
GSACC is especially seeking vendors who sell Catskill-made products- food items, crafts, artwork, and more.  Vendors do not need to be Chamber members, but members receive a discount on the vendor fee.  All vendors must provide proof of liability insurance which covers their participation in this event.  If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Market Manager- Solveig Comer at gsaccpopupmarket@gmail.com or visitwww.CatskillMtns.org/Events.

Mixed Reports: Lopez to Announce Run for Congress


Local news outlets are reporting mixed information concerning a potential congressional bid by New York State Assemblyman Pete Lopez (R-Schoharie), who has been rumored to have interest in the seat being vacated by retiring Congressman Chris Gibson.

Writing that "Assemblyman Pete Lopez, R-Schoharie, announced Tuesday he plans to run for the upstate New York House seat in succession of incumbent U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson of Kinderhook," The Daily Mail set off a political firestorm yesterday. 

Later quoting Congressman Gibson as stating Lopez would be among a number of worthy potential successors, the Catskill based Mail ran the story in yesterday morning's edition of the Columbia-Greene subsidiary

Assemblyman Pete Lopez
The Mail's story was called into question, however by the Oneonta Daily Star, which quoted sources close to Lopez as stating, "the decision is still weeks away." The Assemblyman is said to be conferring with family members on the matter.

Lopez remained conspicuously silent as the conflicting media reports circulated across the 19th Congressional District, which is larger than the neighboring state of Connecticut. 

Phone calls to the Assemblyman's Schoharie office by The Schoharie News were not returned as of publication.

In addition to the Schoharie native, who has often been touted as a hometown son, State Senator Jim Seward and former Assembly Minority Leader John Faso have also been mentioned as potential GOP candidates. No prominent Democrats have signaled interest thus far. 

Working as a lobbyist for Constitution Pipeline, Mr. Faso has been characterized as being out of touch by Schoharie County residents, while Seward has received flak for supporting the 2015 budget proposed by Governor Cuomo. 

Stay tuned to The Schoharie News as we provide further updates to this evolving story. 

Schoharie County in Fire Danger Risk Today

Written By Cicero on 4/15/15 | 4/15/15


The NWS Fire Weather has issued a Red Flag Warning, effective between 11am and 6pm today. Fire Danger Risk for Schoharie County is currently set at high. 


The combination of moderate wind gusts, very low relative humidity and dry fuels have led to this decision. A Red Flag Warning means that any brush fires that develop this afternoon could grow quickly and spread rapidly. 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation open burning ban is still in effect until May 14th.

KyMar Hosting 2015 Arts Awards Celebration



On Wednesday, April 22 at the KyMar Distillery in Charlotteville at 6:30 P.M., the Greene County Council on the Arts will be awarding state funds to arts and producers in Schoharie County as part of the New York State Council on the Arts Community Arts Grants Program.

These taxpayer monies are used to produce art and art events in Schoharie County for the benefit of all Schoharie County residents. Fiscal year 2015 recipients include: The Richmondville Historical Society for the Bunn Mill Music Series, The Theater Project of Schoharie County, The Schoharie Colonial Heritage Association for their children's summer workshops as well as Sonny Ochs for The Not So Quiet Music Series and more. 

The celebration on April 22 will include live music, tours, and tasting. This part is free and is an excellent opportunity for Schoharie County residents to meet and know their fellow artists and producers as well as sample some of Schoharie County's first "legal" distillery's products. All are invited.

For details about the Community Arts Grant Program, please contact Grant Coordinator, Renee Nied at www.schoharieartsgrants@gmail.com 

Schoharie News Launches GoFundMe Fundraiser


With just under five weeks to go until the inaugural print edition of The Schoharie News is released, we are requesting the assistance of our readers to support us as we take the final steps toward launching this endeavor. 

How can you support us? One of three ways. 

First - you can donate to our newspaper by going to our GoFundMe page and making a secure financial transaction.

Second - you can purchase a digital or print subscription to the newspaper to secure your weekly copy in advance. 

Third - you can place an advertisement or classified in The Schoharie News online or print editions by contacting us. 

Our readers have always been there for us as we have made steps forward in the past, and we believe wholeheartedly that you will be there for us as make this giant step into the future next month. If you have any questions, please email us at theschoharienews@gmail.com 

Go Blue for Child Abuse Prevention



In an effort to facilitate awareness and a continued discussion about Child Abuse Prevention, the Child at Risk Response team of Schoharie County's (CARRT) Education Sub-Committee is challenging all of Schoharie County to go blue on Friday, April 17th.

Encouraging local schools and businesses to go blue and to take up a collection to support the prevention and intervention efforts of the CARRT MDT and CARRT Center, the response team will highlight the highest collective organization on its facebook page. 

All donations can be mailed to CARRT, INC., P.O. Box 4, Schoharie, NY, 12157.

Letter to the Editor: Local Land Law Was too Restrictive

Written By Cicero on 4/14/15 | 4/14/15

Dear Editor,

I write in response to a letter to the editor which recently appeared in the Times Journal.  The letter was signed by Jeremy Rosenthal, chairman of the Town of Schoharie Planning Board.  In his letter, the Chairman criticized the Town Board’s suggested changes to our proposed Land Use Law.  In particular, he criticized certain changes which I had suggested.

I am writing to explain why I have made those suggestions.  In the past 3 years that I have served on the town board I have listened to the residents of the Town of Schoharie- a population about 3,000.   Over the years many residents have asked me certain questions such as, why did the dollar general go to Middleburg instead of Schoharie? Why Hannaford didn’t come to Schoharie?  Why the New Holland tractor store moved out of the village of Schoharie? My short answer is, the Land Use Law, which was recently struck down by the Courts, was too restrictive on building designs.  None of those buildings would have fit our design standards.  It has been 10 years since the old law was put into place and a lot has changed.  As the Town Board is currently working to adopt a new Land Use Law, it is the perfect time to incorporate the changes that our residents desire.

Some residents have stated that they were concerned that the changes we were making are incompatible with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan.  As the Town Board went over the Comprehensive Plan I voiced some concerns I had with the Plan, specifically the design guideline examples that are appended to the Plan as of Appendix A.  However, the consultants which the Town has hired to assist with the Plan’s review explained the “examples” included in Appendix A are not binding and the Comprehensive Plan acknowledged that appropriate design guidelines may be developed over time. We must remember it is just a map to guide our decisions and not the direct road that we must follow.

I listened to the majority of our Town residents before I made my decision to suggest the changes in the Land Use Law, not just one person or one opinion

Sincerely,
James  Schultz
Town Councilamn     
Town of Schoharie

Gibson Meets with Constituents in Work Week Period

Written By Cicero on 4/13/15 | 4/13/15

While Congress was in recess for Easter and Passover, Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) met with constituents and participated in public events in each of the 19th Congressional District’s 11 counties.

“Visiting each of the 11 counties in my Congressional district and meeting with hundreds of constituents allowed me the firsthand opportunity to hear how we can be helpful,” said Congressman Gibson. “These conversations help shape our legislative priorities in Washington and give me a clear picture of how things are going for our farms, small businesses, and the scores of local organizations that support and celebrate community life in Upstate New York.”

Congressman Gibson’s schedule included meetings with the Brain Injury and Alzheimer’s associations, students and teachers in Hudson, the director of the New York State Broadband Program, former Navy Seabees, Lyme disease advocates, and members of the Catskill Association for Tourism Services, among other groups.

Families and teachers continued to speak out about standardized testing.

“Constituents oppose Common Core and this week as standardized testing begins in New York, many parents across my district are opting students out of these tests.  They are also looking to Washington and Albany for leadership that brings about change and empowers local parents, teachers, and administrators,” said Congressman Gibson. “We are listening and taking action. We continue to push our bill rolling back federal testing requirements while working with state leaders to roll back Common Core.

“Similarly, we continue to lead on the constituent-driven issue of Lyme disease,” said Congressman Gibson. “We’re working to include our Lyme bill HR 789 in a broader legislative package, if possible, and we’re making progress on companion legislation in the Senate. Our goals also include a robust infrastructure bill, more funding for rural broadband, lowering energy costs, making our small businesses more competitive, and helping veterans through our Agent Orange bill, which now has over 200 bipartisan co-sponsors in the House and a companion bill in the Senate.

“Finally, my chief commitment is to keeping us safe and protecting our cherished way of life,” said Congressman Gibson. “Later this month, I will join my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee as we mark up the annual defense authorization bill, setting military policy for the year.”
       
The 19th District is larger than the state of Connecticut, encompassing all or parts of the following counties: Rensselaer, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Ulster, Sullivan, Delaware, Broome, Otsego, Schoharie, and Montgomery.

Maple Festival Ready for 50th Anniversary

COBLESKILL, N.Y. -- The sap is gathered. The boiling is done.

Now it’s time to taste and experience the tradition of Schoharie County’s first and sweetest crop, maple syrup.

2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the county’s Maple Festival that takes place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

This year’s 50th anniversary has invited all the Maple Royalty -- individuals who have represented the Schoharie County Maple producers as the Maple Queen or King or Princess or Prince -- to be part of the festivities when new royalty is crowned at 2 p.m. Many are expected to be in attendance.

Another highlight is the Maple Festival Parade. Everyone is invited to participate and the lineup starts at 11 a.m. on Cobleskill’s Legion Drive and goes through the town on its way to the fairgrounds. At the Fairgrounds, the characters from Disney’s “Frozen” will meet and greet guests after they march in the parade.

Throughout the day, the festival features entertainment including the Irish dance of the Iona Dance Troupe, Studio North Dance Company of Sharon Springs, the music of Matt Evans and the acting of the Theater Project of Schoharie County that will present Cirque de Silly.

At Schoharie County’s Maple Festival visitors can eat jackwax -- a chewy confection that results when boiled maple syrup is poured over crushed ice. There’s an all day maple breakfast, along with maple candies, maple demonstrations, crafts and lots of food including a chicken barbecue.

Earlier in the day -- from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. -- baked goods are accepted at the fairgrounds for the annual baking contest. There are two divisions -- Adult (ages 14 and up) and Junior (ages 13 years and younger). And there are three categories:  cupcakes, cakes and muffins; cookies bars and scones; and pies and cheesecakes. Of course, all entries must be made with real maple syrup.

Schoharie County’s Maple Festival has its roots in the county’s Village of Jefferson where it began on the village green. The green was established in 1817 and had 120 maple trees around it. Jefferson is home to The Maple Museum, a classic Greek Revival building completed in 1837, that was renamed in the 1960s in recognition of the town’s maple sugaring industry and its Maple Festival.

The 2015 Schoharie County Maple Festival is sponsored by Cobleskill Stone Products, Kintz Plastics Inc., Stewart's Shops, Sterling Insurance Co. and many other local sponsors.

The Best of the Summer

Donate to Support Local Journalism

CONTACT US:


By phone: 518-763-6854 or 607-652-5252
Email: mountaineaglenews@gmail.com
Fax: 607-652-5253
Mail: The Mountain Eagle / PO Box 162 / Schoharie NY 12157

https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=M6592A5TZYUCQ

Subscribe!

Subscription Options

Site Archive

Submit your information below:

Name

Email *

Message *