Schoharie News Tops Half a Million Page-Views

Yes, that headline is correct.

Since the Schoharie News first debuted in June 2013 and officially launched that following fall, this little internet newspaper has received slightly over half a million page views from our absolutely incredible readership of thousands of friends and neighbors in Schoharie County. 

We owe every bit of our success to our humble readership, and we will forever be indebted to the amount of support you have contributed to this amazing project's success. From news tips, photos, donations, and our advertisers, we simply never would have been able make it this far without your faith in what we set out to accomplish. 

I do not know for how much longer this project will continue, or where the work I have done on it will bring me, but in spite of the hardships associated with spearheading the county's only online source of news: threatening e-mails, working all hours of night during heavy news periods, and sacrificing personal time; it has been worth it. 

Again, I thank every person and organization who has supported us through out this project and who will continue to lend their assistance as we continue to grow and report on the news that matters to you, the humble reader of this website, and our neighbor in the community. 

- Timothy Knight, Editor and Publisher of the Schoharie News

Gibson Launches 2014 Re-Election Campaign (Video)

Congressman Chris Gibson (R-NY 19) recently launched his 2014 congressional re-election campaign, and earlier this week the two-term Congressman's web team released the following video of his remarks at the campaign launch. 

Schoharie Valley in Flood Watch

The National Weather Service in Albany announced earlier this morning that most of the Capital District - including the Schoharie Valley region - is in a flood watch due to a, "large slow moving low pressure system that will impact the area into Thursday resulting in widespread showers."

Weather map courtesy of WNYT Albany

Showers that are expected to bring anywhere from one and half to three inches of rain over the next day to the immediate area, with parts of the Eastern Catskills likely to see in excess of four inches. 

Minor flooding of rivers and streams is possible, with additional flooding of poor drainage, urban, and low lying areas likely with heavy rainfall. Residents in the aforementioned areas are cautioned to monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should flooding occur.

We will keep everyone updated here at the Schoharie News as the storm develops.

Coby-Rich to Host Donkey Basketball to Benefit AED of Schoharie County Friday

Cobleskill-Richmondville, in conjunction with neighboring school districts and Green Mountain Donkeyball, are set to host the uniquely commissioned "Donkey Basketball Fundraiser" on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 7:00 pm to benefit the AED Project of Schoharie County. 

The donkeyball match, which will be held inside Cobleskill-Richmondville High School gym, will have participating teams from several local high schools, and in addition to the wild and crazy show on court, the event will also feature concessions, 50/50 raffle, and an opportunity to meet with the donkeys.

Pre-sale tickets cost $5 per student/$7 for adult and can be obtained by visiting Carpets and Then Some, Fit Coalition or by contacting Nancy Brumaghim at nan.c.b71@gmail.com. Tickets will also be available at door, but with a slightly higher price tag of $8 per student/$10 for adult.

SUNY Cobleskill Mourns Loss of Freshmen Student in Auto Accident

SUNY Cobleskill students are mourning the loss of Alexander Batson, a freshmen in the rural university's Fisheries and Wildlife program, who tragically died Monday morning in a motor vehicle accident near his hometown of Poland, New York.

In an email sent to the student body on Monday afternoon, Vice-President of Student Affairs Steven M. Ackerknecht informed students of Mr. Batson's untimely passing. Counseling was made available to his classmates and friends who needed support that evening and into Tuesday. 

The freshmen student, according to Utica's News Channel 2 NBC-WKTV, was driving in a 2003 Pontiac when he "failed to negotiate a curve and lost control of the car." Mr. Batson attempted to regain control of the vehicle, but "exited the roadway again and struck a second tree with the front driver-side fender and door." 

Mr. Batson was eighteen.

Cobleskill Police Blotter (April 29, 2014)

The Cobleskill Police Department has submitted the following press release concerning recent arrests in their jurisdiction. 

Thursday, April 24, 2014

     At 12:10 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Conor G. Anson, 19, of Albany, NY, for violation of the Noise Ordinance.  He was issued an appearance ticket and released.  He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 13th at 5:00 p.m.

     At 1:30 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Gabriella D. Desmond, 23, of Mount Sinai, NY, on a Bench Warrant for failing to pay a fine. She was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released.

  

Friday, April 25, 2014

     At 10:30 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Amanda A. Gibson, 22, of Albany, NY, for violation of the Noise Ordinance.  She was issued an appearance ticket and released.  She is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 27th at 5:00 p.m.  The property at 600-8 East Street was posted for Unruly Gathering.

           

Saturday, April 26, 2014

     At 10:56 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Johnnie Brown, III, 22, of Middleburgh, NY, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd.  He was released and is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 27th at 5:00 p.m.

     At 10:56 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Nicholas McDonnell, 20, of Middleburgh, NY, for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  He was issued an appearance ticket and released.  He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on May 27th at 5:00 p.m.

Hosting Casino Would Bring Millions in State Aid, Funding to Schoharie County

The stakes just got that much higher. 

According to a document published on Schoharie County's official website, whether the Howe Caverns site is selected to host the Capital District's regional casino or not, local counties are in line to receive millions in school funding, property tax relief, and government aid.

However, the true jackpot is in hosting the gaming facility, where the home county is projected to receive over $11.4 million in additional revenue. To put that in perspective, that would be the equivalent of funding 15% of Schoharie County's 2014 $71.9 million public budget from just one source. 

As current calculations stand, Schoharie County would receive just under $1 million in funding regardless of where the casino is located, the smallest amount in the entire Capital District by half a million and barely one-sixth of Albany County's projected take home figures. 

Howe Caves Development Corporation recently anted up $1,000,000 in their own funds to move forward with the state application process, signaling the resolve of Schoharie County's local site to be fairly and seriously considered for the gaming facility. 

All eight counties will walk away from the process with something to show for, but only one will be able to cash in their chips because in poker, the house always wins. 

Jefferson School Board Adopts 2014-15 Budget, 2.41% Tax Increase Under State Cap

Last Tuesday evening, the Jefferson Central School Board of Education unanimously approved the proposed 2014-15 operating budget for the rural school of approximately three hundred students in southern Schoharie County.

The budget, which will be presented to district voters on Tuesday, May 20 for final adoption or public veto, calls for a 2.41% increase in real property taxes for local homeowners, which is under the state imposed property tax cap.

According to a press release issued by district officials, the school was able to keep costs down by eliminating or not filling two personnel positions, while reducing another staff member to part-time employment. The district has reduced personnel by 15% since 2005 while maintaining a consistent number of enrolled students. 

US News and World Reports recently named Jefferson Central School as one of America's best high schools for the fifth time in nine years, a feat Superintendent Carl Mummenthey called an, "independent validation of our school's success."

The district's annual budget hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the school cafeteria. The annual budget vote and board elections, which two incumbents are vying for reelection to, will be held from noon until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20 in the library lobby.

County Line Rebels to Headline Caverns Palace May 3

MAY 3, 2014 – The County Line Rebels – 9 pm to 1 am – Ask any of their fans and the phrase you’ll hear most often to describes The County Line Rebels is “unique new traditional music.” Founded in 1988, they have been going strong ever since. Their music is performed with power, conviction and respect for their audiences. They’re a musical experience you won’t want to miss….

They are one of the Northeast Country Music Association’s most award nominated groups, garnering nominations for awards as Entertainers of the Year, Vocal and Instrumental Group of the Year, and Sunrise Award almost every year since 1989. Individual members have been nominated for awards in various categories. Band leader, Howard Bellinger was the recipient of the Northeast CMA Pioneer Award  in 2009.

They have had the honor of opening for Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame’s Hank Thompson, Freddy Hart (“Mr. Easy Lovin”), and Grand Ole’ Opry member, Charlie Louvin (of the Louvin Brother’s.)

They hope you will allow them to “reintroduce” you to classic and new country along with some 50’s & 60’s rock ‘n roll thrown in just for fun! They also do square dances. In sum, The County Line Rebels are well‐seasoned professionals with experience and insight who have only their audience’s enjoyment at heart.

You won’t want to miss this Good Old Country Time!!! $5.00 at the door, food and drink specials all evening!!!

Middleburgh Canoe Race Attracts Hundreds

Over a hundred contestants and hundreds of cheering family members, friends, and onlookers participated in the re-founding of an old Middleburgh tradition. The Middleburgh Sloughter Canoe/Kayak Regatta was held yesterday for the first time in almost thirty years. The event was a very popular one that used to pit many experienced canoe racers against each other. This new iteration now includes kayaks.

The results were tremendous. The number of contestants about tripled initial estimates and had more people involved than the original programs. The race started at the picnic pull off near Fultonham and finished in Middleburgh's new Timothy Murphy Park.

Middleburgh Fire Department handled safety for the event

Contestants old and young participated yesterday, including some that were involved in the original races. Rotary President Jim Spencer was MC and members of the Middleburgh Booster Club, Rotary, the Knights of Columbus, and others helped in the event.

All photos credit Sheila Donegan.

State Police Arrest Fulton Man Over Domestic Dispute

On April 26, 2014, State Troopers in Cobleskill arrested James E. Papas, 51, following a Domestic Dispute. It is alleged that Papas slapped and choked the victim following an argument. 

Papas was arrested for Harassment in the 2nd degree (Violation) and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing (Misdemeanor) and was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court.  

He was remanded to Schoharie County Jail in lieu of $1,000 bail or $2,000 bond and is to reappear in court on April 29th. 

 

Vote in Our New Poll: Do You Approve of County Clerk Indy Jaycox's Job Performance?

In our latest survey of Schoharie News readers, we are asking whether you approve or disapprove of Schoharie County Clerk Indy Jaycox's job performance as head of the local Department of Motor Vehicles office in Schoharie. 

Mrs. Jaycox, who was first appointed to the position by Governor Pataki after Assemblyman Peter Lopez was first elected to the state legislature, has subsequently been elected twice to head the countywide office that suffered severely from the destruction wrought by Hurricane Irene. 

The poll is located on the right-hand sidebar of the website and will remain open until Friday afternoon. 

Sheriff's Office Investigating Sharon ATV Accident, Driver Remains Hospitalized

The Schoharie County Sheriff's Office is investigating an ATV accident that occurred on Route 10 in the Town of Sharon on Thursday night, slightly north of the Village of Sharon Springs, according to a press release submitted earlier this afternoon by the department. 

At approximately 8:00 pm, Franklin Butler of the Town of Sprakers was operating his 2003 Artic Cat ATV southboundd on Route 10 when he lost control. Mr. Butler was subsequently ejected from the machine and sustained severe head and neck trauma.  

The operator was airlifted to Albany Medical Center for evaluation, where he remains at this time. In addition to local Deputies, members of the Sharon Springs Fire Department and Rescue Squad, along with several Schoharie County Medics, were also on scene. 

Maple Festival, Lumberjacks to Dominate Busy Cobleskill Weekend

The Cobleskill Fairgrounds will be busy with activity this weekend, as residents countywide are gearing up for the 49th annual Schoharie County Maple Festival where a new Maple Queen will be crowned on Saturday, while lumberjacks from across the North East are sharpening their axes for the Stihl Timbersports Collegiate Qualifier that is being held today into tomorrow afternoon.

Joining in on the community action, the Village of Cobleskil will be hosting their 19th annual Fish and Wildlife Festival in conjunction with their 2014 Earth Day Celebration and Village Clean-Up event, both of which will take place at the Village Park from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.  

Voters Approve Middleburgh Library Budget, Three Trustees Elected

With slightly under one hundred residents voting in Tuesday's Middleburgh Library Board election, the community-oriented organization's 2014-15 fiscal year public budget was approved by 80% of voters; only sixteen no votes were cast.

The budget's approval will result in a 7% increase in taxes for local residents, which will equal out to roughly $2-$4 per household, depending on where they reside in the Middleburgh Central School District.

In addition to approving the proposed budget, local residents also elected three new members to the Library Board of Trustees - Rebecca Young-Cherizard, Susan London, and Timothy Knight - who will replace retiring incumbent Carol Coltrain and fill two recently created positions. 

Sheriff's Office: No Arrest Made, But Tri-Agency Investigation Working on Car Break-In Spree

According to a press release issued Wednesday afternoon by the Schoharie County Sheriff's Department, there have been no arrests made in several vehicle related break-ins spanning the county, but out of the crime spree a tri-agency investigation has emerged to resolve the situation.

The break-ins, which started on Easter Sunday in the Village of Schoharie and soon spread to the Villages of Middleburgh and Cobleskill earlier this week, have local law enforcement investigating leads to track down those responsible for the thefts that claimed prescription drugs, electronics, and in one case, at least one debit card.

Officers in the Cobleskill and Schoharie Police Deparments are working on break-ins reported in their respective jurisdictions, while the Sheriff's Department is looking into four cases that occurred in the Village of Middleburgh.

Anyone who has any information concerning these matters is asked to call the Schoharie County Sheriff's Office crime tip line at 518-295-2295 or the Cobleskill Police Department at 518-234-2923.

Middleburgh Business Association Announces "Fourth Fridays" Activities

The Middleburgh Area Business Association is pleased to announce a new tradition in the Village of Middleburgh.  Starting Friday, May 23 come out and celebrate “Fourth Fridays”.  

Every fourth Friday from May through August, the businesses along Middleburgh’s historic Main Street, Railroad Avenue & Chestnut Lane are offering a festival like atmosphere with activities and specials for folks of all ages.  

Activities include live music, wine & beer tasting, fun photos, a live auction, art displays and demonstrations, children’s activities, Friday night bowling, great specials at our many restaurants and shops, and much more.  Each business will host a little something different as well as extended hours from 6PM- 8PM or later.  

The activities will change from month to month, so don’t miss out!  Like the Middleburgh Area Business Association on Facebook where you can stay up to date with participating businesses, details and more.

Howe Caverns Antes Up $1,000,000 Casino Application Fee

Cobleskill, NY – Howe Caves Develop Corporation, today, submitted the $1,000,000 application fee as the next step in a bid to secure a casino at its Schoharie County location.

Emil Galasso, President of Howe Caves Development Corporation, said he believes that at every step in the process Howe Caverns is showing to be a serious contender with the best site for a potential casino in this region.

“Today, we are sorting out - who is in and who is out. When the smoke clears we are confident that operators will recognize the tremendous potential of our shovel ready site - uniquely suited to be a destination location for families throughout the region.  Our proposal is consistent with the Governor's stated goals to target areas in need and build destination resorts in communities that express local support. It will be clear to operators that we are the only site that has all of these qualities in the Capital Region,” Galasso said.

“We have overwhelming public support, we have the support of our County Board and we have the support of key officials who have addressed safety and traffic concerns,” Galasso added.

43 million people live within 3-hours of the proposed site, with an already existing attendance of 150,000 people per year to Howe Caverns and 400,000 tourist to the region each year.

“With over 330 acres of shovel ready land, a new water and sewer project near completion, a connection of Interstate and State Highways, and the close proximity to several metropolitan areas, Howe Caverns is the perfect site for one of New York’s seven casinos,” Galasso said. 

“Howe Caverns is also the only site that offers a built in attraction with pre approved plans for future development such as a hotel and water park,” Galasso continued.

The pre approval includes completed traffic, geological and environmental studies allowing for immediate construction and development at the Howe Caverns site, the 2nd largest natural attraction in New York behind only Niagara Falls.

Galasso also referenced Governor Cuomo’s desire that casinos be sited in economically depressed areas to help spur economic development and create jobs.

Schoharie County has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state.  County residents have also been faced with the devastation from two recent flooding disasters stemming from Hurricanes Lee and Irene.  

“I believe when you look at all the factors put forth in the State’s application process, Howe Caverns more than meets the criteria and is located in a community deserving of the potential economic revitalization,” Galasso said.

Howe Caverns has been in operation since 1842.  In 2007, businessmen Emil Galasso and Charles Wright purchased Howe Caverns and since that time, have updated the original facility and added outdoor attractions such as the Howe High Adventure Park.  

Howe Caverns sits on a beautiful mountainside with spectacular views overlooking the Helderberg Plateau.  It is located just off Interstate 88, about 30 minutes from Oneonta and Cooperstown to the west, and 30 minutes from Albany to the east and 2.5 hours from NYC.  

HCR's New Web Portal Benefits Physicians and Patients

April 21, 2014 — An innovative online solution employed by HCR Home Care enables physicians to get real-time patient information and streamlines communication between doctors and the home care agency.

HCR Home Care now is offering Provider Link, a service available to physicians. Provider Link gives physicians and their staff secure, online access to information about patients who are receiving home care from HCR.

Utilizing the web-based solution, physicians can:

-          Sign home care orders electronically, eliminating paperwork and allowing faster approval.

-          View patients’ vital stats, charts, home care visit schedules, diagnoses and medications.

-          Request automatic alerts to a patient’s condition changes on a patient-by-patient or visit-by-visit basis. For example, a physician can be alerted immediately if a patient’s blood-pressure reading or other vital sign is out of normal range.

-          Write notes directly to a HCR Home Care nurse, such as a directive to change medication.

-          See a patient’s entire episode of care with complete details of the patient’s progress.

“HCR has invested in this state-of-the-art, online solution because of the tremendous benefits it delivers for both patients and physicians,” said Elizabeth Zicari, president, HCR Home Care. “Patients have peace of mind knowing there is more efficient communication between their doctor and their HCR nurse, while physicians can get instant access to patient information.” 

“Provider Link offers an easy-to-use link between physicians and our staff that is secure, confidential and HIPAA-compliant,” said Andrew Bascom, IT director, HCR Home Care. “The doctors we work with who have taken advantage of this solution – which is available at no cost to them – already are benefiting from the portal.”

Luis G. Postigo, MD, an internist in Webster, N.Y., said, “The provider portal that HCR Home Care has implemented has enabled me to complete the orders I need to sign for my patients in half the time. Cutting down on physical paperwork has helped streamline our administrative efficiency as well. Overall, my staff and I are very pleased with the system.”

Poll: Plurality Believe Officials Responsible for AECOM Debacle Should be Fired

Coming off the heels of Friday's vote by the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors requesting the New York State Comptroller's Office investigate the AECOM debacle, Schoharie News readers are deeply divided over what the county's appropriate response to the scandal should be. 

With over one hundred and fifty votes cast, 46% of readers believe that county officials responsible for the circumstances resulting in the stream bank project's $2.6 million budget shortfall should be fired, while 42% contend the county's should respond by covering the project's full costs to ensure final work is completed.

Leave the contract, halt all stream work	9 (5%)
Try to meet AECOM halfway	7 (4%)
Pay the full amount to make sure that the work is done	65 (42%)
Fire county officials responsible	71 (46%)
Other (please comment)	1 (0%)

If anything can be observed from these results, it is that the county is deeply divided over the stream bank remediation project and the fallout associated with revelations that AECOM had conducted work past the purview of their original contract, which had been altered without consent of the Board of Supervisors.