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Steps for Success at SUNY Cobleskill
Written By The Mountain Eagle on 2/6/25 | 2/6/25
Hard at Work, Even at Night
Legal classified advertisements - Week of February 7, 2025
Ice Sculpting at Winter Fest
By Alexis Pencar
SHARON SPRINGS — Bison Island Ranch of Sharon Springs is hosting the first annual Bison Island Winter Fest on February 22nd with Live Ice Sculpting, sledding, beer & wine, photo ops, free hot cocoa, and so much more!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 22nd from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM, for lots of family fun at The Ranch located at 194 Engleville Rd, Sharon Springs, NY 13459. Join friends, family, and neighbors for this special winter event!
“The bison love this cold weather and we can enjoy it too!” offered Bison Island Ranch Owner Susan Golembeski, “Be like a bison, put your winter coat on and stop by to see the spectacular live ice sculpting!”
Bring the whole family for this first-ever event that will feature an incredible Live Ice Sculpture by Nationally Recognized Ice Sculptor Aaron Pencar! You’ll have to see for yourself what the ice sculpture will become!
With plenty of ways to stay warm, enjoy the bonfire, complimentary hot cocoa, hot tea, and s’mores too! Don’t forget the bison throne photo op and sledding for the kids!
At this special event, you’ll be able to purchase your favorite local beverages with beer from Red Shed Brewery of Cherry Valley, NY, wine from Brotherhood Winery, America’s Oldest Winery, of Washingtonville, NY, and delicious non-alcoholic sparkling cider from Middlefield Orchard of MIddlefield, NY.
Listen to music and catch up with friends, play games like corn hole, and take bison throne photo ops with a real bison hide! The Ranch Store will also be open with bison meat, bison jerky, bison art and the NEW bison tallow products like soap and personal care products for sale too!
Want to learn more about bison and their important role in our ecosystem? Learn first-hand by chatting with the knowledgeable Ranch Crew and Owner “Susie Bison”. Did you know that the Bison Island Ranch herd is 100% Grass-Fed and pasture rotated, allowing the animals to live in the most natural and undisturbed way possible? As the largest land mammal in North America, a bison can consume up to 30 pounds of grass in one day! These huge herbivores, also commonly called buffalo, can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, stand over 6 feet tall, and run up to 35 miles per hour! With another bison benefit in mind, The American Heart Association “recommends bison meat for a heart healthy diet due to its low fat and cholesterol content”! This meat is high in protein, iron, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamins B6 and B12. If you haven’t tried delicious bison yet, this is your chance!
Come on out for the first annual Bison Island Winter Fest for an afternoon of fun on Saturday, February 22nd from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM! This is a free event. Bison Island Ranch is located at 194 Engleville Rd, Sharon Springs, NY 13459. Please visit www.bisonislandranch.com or Facebook and Instagram @bisonislandranch for more information.
A Visit from a Miracle Puppy - Seuk Honored During Visit by Whiskey
By Matthew Avitabile
HOWES CAVE - Saturday saw a number of well-wishers to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley (ASSV) to see Whiskey, the puppy who survived a terrible plan crash in Greene County last November. The miracle puppy arrived for the adoption finalization at noon Saturday at the Shelter. Cyndy Ross, the longtime animal care professional who was nursing him back to health, adopted him. The November 24th crash killed hero pilot Seuk Kim and a dog named Lisa. Whiskey, who was 4-months-old at the time, and Pluto, who was one-and-a-half-years-old, both survived. Whiskey suffered two broken legs. The Animal Shelter considered hundreds of applications for adoption, according to Executive Director Maggie Jackman. Pluto was adopted by Stephen and Rachel Clemens, who brought the dog with them Saturday afternoon. Whiskey was adopted by Ross, who aided the dog through multiple surgeries to fix the broken bones and surgery pins.
Ross called Whiskey a "strong survivor." She also said that she "fell in love" with Whiskey immediately. "Oh, man, I got to have this puppy," she thought at the time.
She credited the memory of the aircraft's pilot, stating that she aimed to work with Kim's family to help others. She hopes that people donate to Seuk’s Army, which helps animals, especially in the South. Ross wanted to do so “to honor his legacy.”
Whiskey loves to see other dogs and chase cats and birds, said his new mother. He also enjoys spending time with his brother Casey, who is an Australian Shepherd.
Whiskey "plays by every dog who comes by his side," she said.
"He's got a lot of friends," said Ross.
Jackman added "how happy" the Shelter was about the adoption of Pluto and that Ross was the "best place" for Whiskey. She called the process a "big circle of love."
Local History - The American Revolution in Schoharie County
By Wildert Marte
Our student intern Wildert Marte is researching from a number of sources, including Roscoe’s 1882 history of Schoharie County, interviews with local historians, other local books, and newspaper archives. This article begins the first of this series. Any ideas of what we should write about next? Send it to us at mountaineaglenews@gmail.com.
Introduction
Schoharie County, within present-day New York, was instrumental in the course of the American Revolution. The first settlers in the region were Germans, who provided fertile ground for the war between the colonial government loyalists, American army rebels, and their Native American allies. This work outlines how Schoharie County contributed to the war before, during, and after it, as detailed in the History of Schoharie County by William E. Roscoe.
Before the War: Settlement and Rising Tensions
Preceding the commencement of hostilities, Schoharie County was mainly a farming society that had been established by German immigrants as early as the 1700s. Due to its rich farmland, it was highly sought-after, whereas its strategic location in the middle of New York State made both the British and American armies struggle for its possession. As the rift between Britain and its colony escalated, Schoharie’s populace became engaged in a violent conflict that Threatened their existence. Consequently, the majority of the inhabitants of Schoharie were torn between two allegiances, with some leaning towards revolutionary sentiments while others remained loyal to the Crown. This area, therefore, became a key border zone, and military preparations were underway even before the outbreak of actual warfare.
Start of the War: Early Conflicts and Fortifications
The county became a hotbed of the American Revolution when it broke out in 1775. For the British, this region was critical for managing New York, while the Patriots needed it to safeguard their properties and lives as well. This article primarily focuses on the Battle of Cobleskill, which happened in 1778, where a small group from the American side fought against British loyalists who were joined by some Native Americans. This was one of many instances in which people residing in this territory experienced high levels of insecurity over time. Due to these threats, several forts, including Middle Fort and Old Stone Fort, were constructed by Americans to guarantee safety against British soldiers’ invasions.
Middle of the War: Intense Battles and Civilian Hardships
As regular attacks frequented Schoharie County, hardships grew during the war. In 1780, Sir John Johnson unleashed a devastating raid on the area. The fortresses erected at Middle Fort played a vital role against the Native American and British armies since they did not surrender even when outnumbered. The dependents of those affected by these onslaughts were compelled to seek refuge in fortified settlements. The military operation comprised guerrilla warfare, which
involved small skirmishes in open fields that were dangerous to both ordinary people and soldiers. Civilians had to take care of their war-torn farmsteads alone while contributing food to the fighters and handling responsibilities traditionally reserved for men.
End of the War: Aftermath and Rebuilding
The early 1780s marked the beginning of the end of the war; yet, Schoharie County remained exposed to attacks. Despite the British retreat, the local economy struggled to recover from the effects of the Revolution until the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783, officially ending the conflict. From there, all the inhabitants of Schoharie County began reconstructing their houses and villages. While some former Loyalists had to face hostility, many others were focused on establishing a new government following their support for the Patriots. The war left indelible marks on the county, shaping its development in the early years of a newly independent America.
Conclusion
In general, Schoharie County played a major part in the American Revolution by engaging in battles, constructing defenses, and managing internal conflicts. From his narratives, William E. Roscoe helps us see how difficult life was for the people of this area during that trying time. Studying what happened before, during, and after the conflict in Schoharie County can help us understand the role that local communities played in America’s fight for independence.
The trials of Schoharie County were emblematic of many frontiers in war-torn America. The war’s end was determined by their ability to remain resilient even when pushed to the limit, with few resources available. This fact shows that even small villages played a crucial role in ensuring that America became independent. By keeping their sacrifices in memory, I gained a better understanding of the realities of the Revolutionary War and the contributions of those who, while not always on the battlefield, helped drive history forward every day.
All County Music Festival at Golding Feb. 8
SCHOHARIE COUNTY — The Schoharie County Music Educators’ Association is sponsoring their winter All County Music Festival at Cobleskill-Richmondville's Golding Middle School. Exceptional student musicians have been chosen to participate based on recommendations by their music teachers. Selected students will rehearse with guest conductors on Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8. The festival will culminate in a concert at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 8 given by an elementary choir, junior high choir and high school band. Participating school districts are Berne-Knox-Westerlo, Cobleskill-Richmondville, Duanesburg, Middleburgh, Schoharie, and Sharon Springs.
February First Friday Fun in Cherry Valley
CHERRY VALLEY - This Friday, February 7, will be the second First Friday event of the year in Cherry Valley.
Join them for their deep winter Cherry Valley First Friday this Friday.
The evening starts at 5pm.
* First Friday Open Mic at The Cherry Valley Old School Cafe at 6pm.
* First Friday: Opening Reception for Color and Reflection at 25 Main Collective from 5-8pm.
* First Friday - Live Music - The Red Wagon with rock and Americana hits and originals at Red Shed Ale House from 6-8pm
* Treat yourself to some delicious food from the Tryon Inn Backdoor Bar, the Red Shed Ale House, or the Triangle Tavern.
Learn about more upcoming events at: cherryvalley.com.
Boys Varsity Volleyball Falls Short against Catskill
The Bulldogs were able to contain these teams that have either been undefeated or close to undefeated records. “The Boys are playing at a good level of volleyball,” Davis said. Markus Trappenburg and Kole Wayman have been leading CR’s offense on the net with Markus bringing in 21 kills, and Kole bringing in 23 kills over the last 3 matches. Connor Testa and Benjamin Walrath are making these other teams that can hit the ball work with their blocks on the net. Benjamin led with 5 blocks, and Connor with 3. Aidan Carr has proven vital on the serving line delivering 7 aces. CR played Voorheesville next on Feb. 6, but results were not available prior to press time.
Coach Davis said, “We are shaping up to be in an extremely competitive position for sectionals, already beating our potential first-round team Hudson earlier this season.”
Special thanks to Justin Davis for this information.
Firewood for a Great Cause
By Alexis Pencar
CHERRY VALLEY — Introducing the Good Samaritan Firewood Project in Otsego County, servicing neighbors in need during the tough winter months.
Led by John Meyer of Cooperstown and his family, wife Jessica Meyer and two sons Sean Meyer & Kyle Meyer, this endeavor of goodwill started small in 2021 and has since grown into the helpful organization it is today! Supplying between 30-35 face cord per winter to those in need, particularly Veterans and families, Good Samaritan makes quite the impact!
The mission of Good Samaritan Firewood Project is “to provide warmth to our neighbors in need while providing resources and financial support to our brothers and sisters in the charitable community. Encouraging like minded people to share their talents and abundance that have blessed their lives with those less fortunate. One friend gathers what another friend spills!”
“I’ve always loved helping people and always loved the woods.” said John Meyer in an exclusive interview, “We cut and split all the wood ourselves and it takes a lot of time (and sweat) but doing the right thing never gets old!” The 140 acre woodlot allotted towards Good Samaritan Firewood Project is located in the Moonlight Forest at the foothills of the Catskill Mountains in Otsego County, and there is a constant supply to be gathered for firewood.
Some firewood recipients experience temporary financial hardship while others have experienced the devastating loss of a spouse, and though there are other larger statewide heating assistance programs in New York like HEAP, Good Samaritan makes up the difference.
With mottos like “Firewood’s Saving Grace” and “May the forest be with you”, this fun bunch is serious about their generosity! Not only do they help individuals with free firewood deliveries within Otsego County but they also provide free firewood bundles to Food Pantries as well as other charitable organizations.
Have you ever wanted to help in a greater cause? Good Samaritan Firewood Project is always looking for volunteers whether it be for wood cutting in the warmer months or deliveries in the winter, there is always a way to help out!
If you are in need this winter or want to learn more, please get in touch with Good Samaritan Firewood Project on the web at goodsamaritanfirewoodproject.com or call (607) 547-6053.
Ice Fishing Derby Set for Feb. 15th at Fancher Pond
RICHMONDVILLE – The Richmondville Fish and Game Club will host its annual ice fishing derby on Saturday, February 15th, at Fancher Pond in the Town of Summit.
The derby will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with prizes awarded every two hours at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m. Children under 15 years old can participate for free.
Fancher Pond is located off Fancher Road in Summit.
Prizes will be awarded immediately following the derby. Door prizes and raffles will also be available.
For more information, contact Greg Warner at (518) 265-8947.
Lead paint rental registry plan unveiled by New York Department of Health
By Jennifer Patterson
In an effort advocates hope will protect children from lead poisoning, New York’s Advisory Council on Lead Poisoning Prevention convened last month to review the state Department of Health’s draft regulations for a statewide lead rental registry.
Established by the Legislature in 2023, the rental registry will require landlords in 25 upstate “communities of concern” to have their properties inspected for lead paint — and address any identified hazards — before renting those units to tenants. The program is framed after a similar one implemented in Rochester two decades ago, hailed as a success story for lowering rates of childhood lead poisoning there.
In many of the targeted areas, the registry will build on older state and federal rules, which only mandate intervention after residents have been exposed to lead. In others, it will build on and standardize rental registries established by local ordinances.
The registry, which is tentatively slated to go into effect later this year, will have a public comment period on draft regulations through Feb. 22. The goal is to have a public-facing database that prospective renters can consult while searching for a property.
The state aims to complete inspections on all covered properties within the first three years of the program. Landlords will have to get properties inspected again every three years, or when a property is sold.
Advocates have argued this more proactive approach will reduce rates of lead exposure in the state’s most vulnerable communities, cracking down on negligent landlords and addressing the problem before children are poisoned.
Even in small doses, lead paint is a serious environmental hazard, especially for young children. It can cause irreversible neurological harm, including behavioral and learning problems.
Lead paint has been illegal across the country for almost 50 years, but in buildings constructed before the ban went into effect, the toxic paint often remains, and children can ingest paint chips or dust decades later.
For information, go to https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/advisory_council.