Owners Seek Community Support in Restoring Bull's Head Inn

The Bull's Head Inn is one of Schoharie County's treasures from the early nineteenth century, a corner-piece establishment in Olde Cobleskill defined by its majestic appearance and its ghostly folklore, but of late it has suffered from the same economic woes that have plagued the county. 

Three entrepreneurs who purchased the historic restaurant last year - Christopher Guldner, Mary Sagendorf, and Kevin Guldner - are trying to change that and bring the landmark back to its former glory, but need the community's help to do so. 

As part of their restoration efforts to bring the facility back to operation, significant structural repairs need to be completed, including the installation of a fire sprinkler system throughout the entire building and an associated new water main, which are estimated to top $32,000 in costs.

To offset the hefty price-tag of furbishing the necessary fire protection system, the new owners have launched a "Protect the Bull's Head Inn" campaign on gofundme.com that is appealing to local residents and patrons of the fine establishment to assist them in restoring the restaurant to its place in the community. 

The campaign launched at the end of March and has since raised over $11,500 from donors, or one-third of the goal amount. But as impressive as their early fundraising efforts have been, they still need help from everyday residents to rehabilitate and restore the legendary Bull's Head Inn to its former glory.

You can find out more and donate to their campaign here. 

Letter to the Editor: Milone Urges County Administrator Approval

Dear Editor,

It has been five months since I introduced a Local Law calling for the appointment of a County Administrator, someone who would shoulder the responsibilities of a Chief Administrator working in conjunction with the County Board of Supervisors on a daily basis concerning the overall administration of county government. This is something our county has never had and is in desperate need of.  He or she would also become the go-to person on a daily basis pertaining to issues that affect not only the work force but, the general public as well.  This individual would appoint such office staff authorized by the board, take recommendations to the appropriate committee or to the Chairman of the Board, including recommendations to hire department head positions, work in conjunction with and coordinate activities of county department heads and the administration of all units of county government in order to most efficiently implement the directions of the Board of Supervisors.  He or she would have general supervision of all county departments and agencies, including supervision of purchasing and auditing functions, work with each department on the development of an annual plan (goals) for the most effective and efficient operation of county government, to aid the Board of Supervisors in evaluating proposals presented and make recommendations concerning such proposals, to serve as an adviser in developing policies and procedures, to initiate and oversee the collective bargaining process with organized employees and to serve as the Labor Relations Director to resolve grievances, to execute and approve contracts in the name of the county and be authorized to transfer funds within the adopted budget and to have such powers to perform other duties empowered by the Board of Supervisors.

This brief overview is what would be expected of this individual, creating something which has been missing in county government for a long time, that being accountability as well as someone watching the store on a daily basis which any successful business owner can appreciate.  The current state of our county government continues to leave a lot to be desired.  We have been without an IT Director for almost a year and a half, the Health Dept. still does not have a permanent director as well as the Personnel Dept.  Major contracts have been jeopardized by incompetence and we still have some individuals in place that were part of a conspiracy unveiled by the Fitzmaurice report.

It has been the philosophy of the Board of Supervisors for years that they, and only they, run the county, never willing to recognize that perhaps in many instances they were in over their heads on issues.  While it is not my intention to discredit my colleagues that I sit with at the County, because I appreciate and care about them all, I am willing to recognize that we are in need of help.  If that is not apparent then we become part of the problem and not part of the cure.  It remains my wish that the County Board and the general public take a serious look at the local law that was introduced.  Take a bold step forward in an attempt to remedy the issues which have plagued our county for years and if this concept proves successful we will have afforded our constituents the type of representation and government they well deserve.

Collectively we can stop county government from floundering on a daily basis.  We have an obligation to provide efficient and meaningful government.  Change never comes easy but if we can recognize change is necessary it becomes a lot more palatable. 

Gene Milone

Schoharie Supervisor

For Middleburgh Accountant, A Chance to Assist in Recovery

Francis Pipczynski didn't quite know what to expect when he accepted a meeting with Mayor Matthew Avitabile of Middleburgh. The Mayor had posted an ad online calling for an accountant to return to the community. The community's beloved accountant, Joe Muniz, had been forced out by Hurricane Irene. The first meeting went well, then the second, and then an introduction to Middleburgh's new Business Association.

By December 2013 an office was open on Main Street. The Village government furnished a small grant and a zero-percent loan to assist the opening of Valley Tax and Accounting. A website was up, later a Facebook page. Pipczynski didn't expect to make a killing in his first year, and wanted to be a part of the community's recovery. "My own belief is that there are only two types of people - hill finders and hill climbers and so far I have only met the latter," he said. The business community and local residents rallied around the new accountant. For the community it was more than another business-- the opening of the office was the ninth since 2012, marking the first time Middleburgh had more businesses than before the flood.

From Miracle on Main Street, December 2013. Photo credit Francis Pipczynski

Valley Tax took part in December's annual Miracle on Main Street and was amazed by the community outpouring of support. He publishes a newsletter for people to take advantage of saving and tax loopholes.

Part of the December newsletter

Pipczynski offers more than just accounting but also personal asset services, retirement planning, and bookkeeping for businesses. His office is at 296 Main Street in Middleburgh and can be reached at 827-3311.

Vote in Our New Poll: Do You Approve of Assemblyman Lopez?

In our latest survey of Schoharie News readers, we are asking whether you approve or disapprove of New York State Assemblyman Peter Lopez's job performance as Schoharie County's elected representative in the lower house of the state legislature. 

Assemblyman Lopez was first elected to the State Assembly in 2006, after having previously served as Schoharie County Clerk, Schoharie Town Supervisor, and Village of Schoharie Trustee over the years. Lopez has regularly received over 60% of the vote in his re-election campaigns.

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

Everyone Wins in Donkeyball Event, AED Project Raises $2,000

With over five hundred people coming out to the inaugural Donkeyball tournament Friday night, the AED Project of Schoharie County raised a total of $2,050.00 in support of their cause to increase local safety and awareness of sudden cardiac arrest.

April the donkey threw many a would-
be riders off her back Friday night

The crowd excitedly packed Cobleskill-Richmondville High School gym to watch four local school districts - Cobleskill-Richmondville, Middleburgh, Schoharie and Sharon Springs - send their best athletes to compete against one another, whilst attempting to ride donkeys. 

Hilarity ensued. While they represented some of the county's best high school basketball players on the court, that skill set didn't correlate into an ability of taming half a dozen donkeys, which resulted in players ending up on their backsides more often than not and inevitably low scoring games. 

Players were lucky if the donkeys had
the same idea in mind... most didn't.

In the end, although Schoharie would be crowned the victors of Friday's unique Donkeyball tournament with a overtime win over Middleburgh, the real winner of the night was the AED Project of Schoharie County that put together such an incredible event with only three weeks of time to do so.

Nancy Brumaghim of the AED Project told the Schoharie News that the amount raised was enough to purchase one AED defibrillator and a non-shocking training device. She would go to call the event a, "great success," and thanked everyone involved: including Green Mountain Donkeyball, fans, players, MC Brian Dineen, volunteers, Cobleskill-Richmondville and co-organizers and staff. 

Poll: Voters Strongly Approve of Jaycox

The latest Schoharie News poll has found that readers strongly support the job performance of Schoharie County Clerk Indy Jaycox, who has served in her current capacity since being appointed to replace Peter Lopez following his election to the Assembly in 2006. 

Mrs. Jaycox has since been re-elected twice to the position, most recently over perennial candidate and former Middleburgh Mayor Gary Hayes by a near two-to-one margin in November 2011.

According to the survey, which over one hundred and fifty readers participated in, 67% (104 votes) approved of the Clerk's job performance, while only 25% (39 votes) disapproved and the remaining 7% (12 votes) remain undecided at this time. 

We have previously surveyed the approval ratings of Sheriff Desmond, District Attorney Sacket, and County Treasurer Cherry; the last of which was marred by voter fraud.

Howe Caverns Site Ahead of Curve on Environmental Study

Cobleskill, NY – During the mandatory meeting of the 22 interested parties looking to be approved to build one of four casinos in New York State, the repeated concern of the day was the ability to meet the requirements of the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR). 

“It became clear at the meeting that several potential developers are concerned over meeting the requirements and doing so in a timely fashion.  Howe Caverns has already completed a SEQR review giving us a leg up as a true ready to build site for a casino,” Emil Galasso, President of Howe Caves Development Corporation, said.

A SEQR review requires the sponsoring or approving governmental body to identify and mitigate the significant environmental impacts of the activity it is proposing or permitting. This process can take upwards of 18 months.

This becomes of serious concerns to potential casino developers and operators as licensees can be fined for failing to open for gambling within two years of getting a license, and must declare any obstacles to completing the environmental review.

“Time and again, we have shown that Howe Caverns is one of the premier sites in New York to build a casino.  We have over 330 acres of true shovel ready land that can be built on immediately.  This includes the cumbersome and time consuming SEQR review.” Galasso said.

“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.  I think it is becoming clearer each day that Howe Caverns is the best site with least obstacles for the quick, successful development of a casino,” Galasso continued.

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. 

Depot Lane Singers Concert this Weekend

This Friday and Saturday, enjoy the music of the Depot Lane singers at their concerts.

Sacket Honored by Schoharie County GOP

Schoharie County District Attorney James Sacket was honored by the Schoharie County Republican Party as the 2014 Republican Man of the Year award recipient in their 67th annual Lincoln Day Dinner Thursday evening at the Caverns Palace. 

The annual event hosted over one hundred Republican faithful and featured several guest speakers, including Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors Tony VanGlad, Assemblyman Pete Lopez, State Senator Jim Seward, and Congressman Chris Gibson.

Mr. Sacket was introduced by 2013 Republican Man of the Year Judge Dan Lamont, who described the five-term District Attorney as a fair practitioner of the law and deserving of the GOP's recognition.  

Shortly after Mr. Sacket was named, his wife Rhonda was announced as the 2014 Women's Republican of the Year award honoree by Gilboa Town Councilwoman and 2013 recipient of the award Dottie Pickett. 

The couple, who have been married since 1994, were joined by their two children at the event.

Seward to Host Training For Lifesaving Heroin Overdose Medication

ONEONTA, 05/01/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) announced Wednesday that he will be hosting a free heroin/opioid overdose prevention training class on Wednesday, May 7th at the FoxCare Center in Oneonta.

“A key aspect in the short term battle against heroin and opioid abuse is preventing overdose deaths,” said Senator Seward.  “Training more individuals to administer the overdose reversal medicine Naxolone or Narcan will save lives, that’s why I am sponsoring this event and will be among those taking the class on May 7^th .”

Narcan is a prescription medicine which can be administered nasally and can revive someone who is overdosing.  Currently, in order to obtain this life-saving medication, you must complete a brief training class.

Senator Seward will be partnering with Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties, Inc., and Otsego County Addiction Recovery Services to conduct a free training class that meets New York State Department of Health requirements.  Participants will receive a certificate of completion and an emergency resuscitation kit that includes Narcan.  

Friends of Recovery of Delaware and Otsego Counties, Inc., Executive Director Jeanette Tolson said, “Offering public trainings about preventing overdose from opioids is a critical step in combating this complicated problem.  A community effort bringing together individuals in recovery and their families, friends and allies is essential in long term solution development.”

Otsego County Chemical Dependency Program Manager Justin Thalheimer said, “Narcan is already saving lives and it is a matter of time before it saves a life here if it has not already.  Senator Seward’s assistance in highlighting this emergency treatment is a significant step in educating the public.” 

Senator Seward is a member of the Joint Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction.  He recently hosted a roundtable discussion to solicit input from local experts on the rise in use of heroin and other opioids.  Similar forums are being held across the state, and the task force will use the findings to help develop legislation that will be advanced during this legislative session.

“A comprehensive approach is needed to combat the rise in heroin use, which has reached epidemic proportions.  Better education programs, improved insurance coverage for treatment, avenues to help recovering addicts find a job, and stronger criminal penalties for heroin dealers are all under consideration,” added Seward.

The rise in heroin use and the deadly effects of the drug are well documented.  A 2012 federal survey on drug use and health reported that the number of people who said they used heroin in the past 12 months rose from 373,000 people in 2007 to 669,000 people in 2012.

The heroin/opioid overdose prevention class will take place on Wednesday, May 7^th from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Wellness Conference Room, FoxCare Center in Oneonta.  The training is free and open to the public.  Space is limited and pre-registration is strongly recommended online at www.senatorjimseward.com or by calling (607) 432-5524. 

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.