5th Annual Summer Festival at Mine Kill State Park

Join park patrons from throughout New York State for a day of fun in the sun at Mine Kill State Park! The park is hosting its 5th annual Summer Festival on Saturday, July 19, 2014 from 10AM to 4PM at the Mine Kill pool complex.  This year’s activity lineup will feature amazing presenters, summertime games, environmental education programs and so much more! Admission to Summer Festival is just $3 for the vehicle entrance fee to the park.  

Summer Fest 2014 will boast dozens of activities and presenters for the entire family.  Volunteers can sign up for a tremendous opportunity to experience life as a New York State Forest Ranger when DEC Ranger Bill Henry conducts a Mock Search and Rescue (SAR) Operation at the park! Explore the Incident Command Post used by the DEC during a real SAR and learn the procedures to successfully find a lost hiker.  Take a walk inside the Mine Kill Nature Tent to learn all about invasive species that may be in your own backyard with the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP).  Learn more about the life and times of famous local naturalist, John Burroughs, with Diane Galusha from the Woodchuck Lodge.  Then enjoy a guided eagle hike with a park ranger along Mine Kill’s 8 miles of hiking trails including the nationally recognized Long Path.  Don’t forget to check out the brand new, permanent disc golf course at the park located just outside the pool complex.  Park staff will conduct a ribbon cutting and unveil the new 18-hole course the morning of Summer Fest.  Also, the entire family will love watching Ziggy and Razz the miniature horses perform unbelievable tricks.  

Kids will have an opportunity to jump in the Bounce House or take a shot at “The Flusher” for some prizes. 

There will also be plenty of arts and crafts, face painting, pie throwing and the 2nd annual Summer Fest Regatta across the Mine Kill pool.  Have you ever been geocaching? Meet Greg, a geocache expert, and learn all about this modern day treasure hunt using GPS units. Then participate in the amazingly popular 2014 Saratoga Region Geocache Challenge for a chance to win some incredible gear.    There will also be a kayak rescue demonstration performed by American Canoe Association certified instructors.  Kayak courses are now being offered on the Blenheim-Gilboa Reservoir on many occasions throughout the summer.  Check out the Mine Kill Facebook page for upcoming course dates and times.    

The Mine Kill State Park Summer Festival is proud to have several sponsors supporting this year’s event, including Stewart’s Shops which will be providing four different flavors of ice cream for free sundaes!!! Thank you Stewart’s! Creekside Sports of Schoharie, NY will be hosting a fantastic fly-tying workshop, so get ready to test your skills at fly-casting on the Blenheim-Gilboa Reservoir or Mine Kill Creek.  Bring your own rod and reel or borrow one from the park to sample a new lure at the park (valid NY State Fishing License required for everyone 16 and older).  

Great music will be provided throughout the day courtesy of Mr. Music DJ Services of Middleburgh.  Of course, take advantage of Mine Kill’s Olympic-size pool and dive tank to beat the heat in between Summer Fest activities.  Enjoy a sandwich, salad or other refreshments at the pool’s concessionaire.  Entrance fees for Summer Festival are just $3 per vehicle.  To jump in one of the three in-ground pools, the cost is only $2 for adults (13+) and $1 for seniors (62+) and children 6 to 12.  Kids 5 and under swim for free!      

Also before, during and after Mine Kill’s Summer Festival, don’t forget to stop by the Environmental Education Nature Tent located inside the pool complex.  The Nature Tent is geared toward kids of all ages and adults and will feature a different environmental theme each week in July, Tuesday through Friday, 11AM-3PM.  Beginning on July 8th-11th, learn all about many of the local inhabitants of the forest like the black bear, bald eagle, bats, bobcats and much more during Wildlife Week.    Beetle Buster week is from July 15th-18th and is sponsored by CRISP with lots of information about “unwanted guests” that may be in your own backyard.  Join Schoharie Area Wild and other presenters during Healthy Living Week from July 22nd-25th and finish up the Nature Tent series from July 29th-August 1st with Earth Week at the Mine Kill tent.  Please call the Mine Kill park office at (518) 827-8690 for more information about the 2014 Nature Tent.    

Mine Kill State Park is located in the scenic Schoharie Valley overlooking the Power Authority’s Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Power Project.  The reservoir provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The eight miles of trails, including trails from the Park to the NYPA Visitor Center such as the nationally designated Long Path, are great for hiking, biking and birding.  Cascading 80 feet through a narrow gorge is the picturesque Mine Kill Falls for which the Park is named.  

For those who would like to extend their visit, nearby Max V. Shaul State Park is a small, quiet camping area with 30 wooded tent and trailer sites, picnic grounds, a state of the art playground and boat access along the Schoharie Creek.  In addition to the Max V. Shaul trails and fishing opportunities, campers have free access to Mine Kill State Park and receive discounts at a variety of local tourist attractions and businesses.  

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 180 state parks and 35 historic sites, which are visited by 60 million people annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.

Old Stone Fort Presents, Debates History on Fourth

Decorated with American flags and ribbons, Schoharie's Old Stone Fort hosted dozens of area residents Friday morning into the afternoon as re-enactors presented history buffs, both young and old, with readings of the founding documents that led to American Independence and debates over their actions in 1776 that still effect us to this day. 

Re-Enactors listen to one of many questions
brought forth over the afternoon

With members of the Tyron County Militia and other volunteers dressed in period clothing, the stage was set for light hearted yet serious debate with attendees over a wide array of issues, including the makeup of America as a Democratic-Republic and the status of the arcane Electoral College, which has been challenged in recent years. 

Additionally, the Old Stone Fort welcomed visitors to take a tour of its outside exhibits, including the recently introduced Founders Exhibit that offered residents an in-depth look at the men who founded the Schoharie County Historical Society, and who worked to preserve the museum we have today that once served as a church and encampment. 

Gallupville to Host 4th Annual Community Day

The Gallupville Fire Department will be holding their Fourth Annual Community Day on this upcoming Saturday, July 12th. Festivities will be kicked off by the Bill Fagan 5K Memorial Run, which registration will open for at 7 a.m., with the race itself beginning at 8 a.m. 

Additionally, there will be a pancake breakfast (by donation) available from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m., followed by bed races starting at 11, and a car show gearing up at noon. Registration will be open for the show all morning and it will run through 4 p.m. that afternoon, with ice cream being awarded to all participants. 

There will be kids games and events for the entire family at the firehouse, and the department is encouraging residents in the hamlet to set up their own yard sales in addition to hosting vendors on the fire department's lawn to sell their goods free of charge. Residents with any questions should call 518-657-9569.

To cap the afternoon off, a chicken barbecue (provided by BBQ Delights) will be cooking from 1 p.m. until they are all sold out. Patrons can purchase a full dinner for $10.00 or pay $6.00 for half.

Governor Signs Bill Memorializing Highway After Fallen Soldier

A portion of New York State Highway 44/55 in Ulster County will be renamed in honor of United States Army Sergeant Shawn Michael Farrell II under legislation signed into law Thursday.  The legislation (S.7824) was sponsored by Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) and pays tribute to the young soldier killed on April 28th in Afghanistan.

“Every man and woman who dons a United States military uniform sacrifices for our nation and our way of life,” said Senator Seward.  “Sergeant Shawn Michael Farrell II made the ultimate sacrifice and we owe it to him and his family to keep his memory alive.  I appreciate Governor Cuomo joining in swiftly signing this legislation to honor Sergeant Farrell’s bravery, courage, and unwavering allegiance to his country and his fellow soldiers.” 

Sgt. Shawn M. Farrell II, 24, of Accord, New York, died April 28, in Nejrab District, Kapisa province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire.  He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.

Senator Seward’s bill designates the portion of New York State Route 44/55 from the intersection of New York State Route 209 in Wawarsing to the intersection of New York State Route 299 in Gardiner as the “Sergeant Shawn Farrell II Memorial Highway”.

“It is especially fitting that this bill is signed into law as we mark our nation’s Independence Day.  With so many Americans traveling along memorial highways to visit parks and other monuments,  I hope everyone takes note of the names attached to our historic landmarks and says thank you for all our servicemen and women have done to protect our freedoms and way of life,” Seward concluded.

Senator Seward posthumously awarded Sergeant Farrell with the state senate’s Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate, in recognition of his sacrifice and service to his country.  Senator Seward also sponsored a special senate resolution (J.4858) in tribute to Sergeant Farrell.

Sheriff's Office Responds to Richmondville ATV Accident

Schoharie County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a report of an ATV accident on Cross Hill Road in the Town of Richmondville Friday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m, where the driver sustained injuries - but none severe. 

Joseph Kruithoff, age 64, of Pennsylvania was operating a 2002 Kawasaki on private land toward the tail end of the holiday when he lost control of the vehicle, which caused it to strike a tree. 

He was transported by Richmondville Ambulance to Albany Medical Center for non life threatening injuries, and no tickets were issued. The Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by members of Richmondville Fire and Ambulance squads. 

Bounty of the County Recalls Hard Work, Future Progress

SALT held its second annual Bounty of the County dinner at the Carrot Barn last Saturday, attracting over 100 people for the fundraiser. The feast was set to raise thousands for flood recovery and highlight the hard work of many volunteers over the last three years.

The guests of honor included the Beekman Boys, who recounted that there was something unique to Schoharie County and that flood recovery was close, but not complete.

SALT Executive Director Sarah Goodrich praised the efforts of volunteers putting together Schoharie, Esperance, and Middleburgh. She remarked that the progress seen was beyond anyone's imaginations in 2011.

Overall, attendance was estimated at around 120, including State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who said that he would be coming back shortly with union volunteers to further the volunteer effort.

Letter to the Editor: Cherry Has No Interest in Administrator

Dear Editor,

My name has been mentioned several times in conjunction with the creation of a possible appointed County Administrator position in Schoharie County.  These references have been made in various print news articles, in two separate newspaper editorials over the past few weeks, and in several on-line postings.   Up until now I have remained silent regarding the subject.  It seemed premature for me to take a public stance on the issue, since the position does not presently exist in Schoharie County.  Given the reluctance of the majority of the Board of Supervisors, both past and present, to accept the fact that running a complex organization with an annual operating budget of $72 million requires full-time, day-to-day professional management in order to function properly, many of us have serious doubts about whether the position will ever be created.

However, since my name keeps getting published almost every time the issue gets raised, I guess it’s appropriate for me to clear the air once and for all.  I don’t want the job.  Let me say that again… I will not apply for, nor accept, an administrator position that serves at the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors.  Why would I ever surrender the independence and fiscal authority that the voters of this county have entrusted to me for the past 19 years in order to become an appointee of the Board of Supervisors?  Serving as a county-wide elected official has allowed me to independently manage and safeguard county finances, and to publically criticize the Board when I felt they were making a decision that would adversely impact taxpayer dollars.  If I had been serving at their pleasure, rather than at the pleasure of the 32,000 people of this county, the Board of Supervisors would have fired me long before now.  

I can understand why my name has been associated with the County Administrator position.  It is probably because there have been many times over the years where the Board has tapped me to take on a difficult project, or clean up a challenging situation, outside my role as County Treasurer.  I always felt that it was my duty to say yes, because if left unattended or uncorrected, the problem would likely cost the taxpayers even more money.  My college degree in Public Administration, along with my professional training and job experience qualifies me to hold the position of County Administrator.  But in this case, regarding that particular position, my answer has to be thanks, but no thanks.

In my mind there can be no doubt that Schoharie County government needs professional, day-to-day management.  But whether that goal can be achieved under someone who has to try to stay in the good graces of the Board of Supervisors in order to keep their job is a whole other story.  Perhaps the only way to truly achieve effective leadership at the county level will be to someday move toward the creation of an elected County Executive working side-by-side, and in conjunction with, with a County Legislature.  

Whether the Board eventually creates the position of appointed Administrator, and if so, who they hire to do that job, is as yet unknown.  One thing is certain however…  it won’t be me.  I have absolutely no intention of walking away from the commitment that I have made to serve the people of Schoharie County as their independent, straight-talking, County Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, until such time as they decide that I should do so.

Respectfully,

William Cherry,
Schoharie County Treasurer

Schoharie Braces for More Hot Weather, Thunderstorms

Residents of Schoharie County are bracing for yet another long day of blistering temperatures, through the roof humidity levels, and strong or severe thunderstorms plaguing their pre-holiday afternoon commutes home before Independence Day festivities kick off tomorrow. 

Courtesy of WNYT

Additionally, due to the already saturated ground from yesterday's heavy rainfall, Schoharie County and most of the greater Capital Region have been placed under a flash flood watch from noon today until midnight as heavy thunderstorms could potentially bring even more rain into the fray.

Stay dry Schoharie County, tomorrow should be nicer. 

Iroquois Museum to Host Oneida Dancers July 12

Howes Cave, N.Y. -- The Iroquois Indian Museum will have a Social Dance Saturday on July 12 at the Museum featuring Onota’a:ka (Oneida Nation Dancers), based in the central New York Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) community of Oneida.

Founded by Elder and Wolf Clan Mother Maisie Shenandoah for the purpose of cultural education, the troupe’s original purpose continues to be carried forth by daughter Vicki, granddaughter Tawn:tene (Cindy Schenandoah Stanford) and an extended family with common goals.  For the Schenandoahs, dance is not a separate expression of heritage and thanksgiving, but one that is thoroughly integrated into daily life. Onota’a:ka selects a repertoire that is enjoyable for the crowd and encourages participation. 

Social Dance Saturday and all events at the Museum are free with paid admission. The Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 12 Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed Monday. Regular admission is $8 for adults, $6.50 for seniors/students and $5 for children ages 5-12. Children under five are free when accompanied by an adult. Special group rates are available by calling the Museum at 518-296-8949. 

For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum.org.

Howe Caverns Casino Owner: A Past of Child Abuse, Election Fraud, Ponzi Scheme Involvement

The Howe Caverns Resort and Casino announced earlier this week, to much fanfare and media coverage, its formal application filing to the New York State Gaming Commission for consideration of one of the four casino gaming licenses to be awarded this fall in Upstate, New York. 

Additionally, the proposed gaming facility announced that Michael J. Malik Sr. - a nationally known casino developer and founder of MJM Enterprises and Development - will serve as the project's owner and operator in conjunction with Full House Resorts, a development firm. 

However, upon extensive research of Mr. Malik's financial and political background, the Schoharie News has uncovered several disturbing items of note concerning the casino magnate's past dealings; many of which raise serious questions over how he was selected to head the casino project.

Among the more alarming discoveries: 

• The Fifth Third Bank, a Michigan banking corporation, filed an official complaint against Mr. Malik on February 2nd, 2009 for allegedly failing to repay over $990,000 in monies the defendant borrowed through a line of credit in April of 2007. 
• In April, 2009 the Securities and Exchange Commission reached a $170,000.00 settlement with Mr. Malik for his role participating in a $2.1 million 2006 Florida based ponzi scheme by John Upstick's Worldwide Entertainment, Inc.
• California's Fair Political Practices Commission has fined Mr. Malik twice for a total of $10,500 for violating California's political reform laws. The casino magnate reportedly failed to report more than $50,000 in political contributions.

Mr. Malik was also found guilty of firing a weapon too close to occupied residences during a 2007 hunt in Arizona, and he has had thousands returned in political donations he made to New York State officials in the run up to a contentious casino bid on Long Island.

Malik

Perhaps worst of all, Malik was arrested and served a year of probation in 1997 for assaulting his then girlfriend's twelve year old son with a wooden hockey stick. According to The Detroit News, Mr. Malik chased the boy into the street outside the family's home and started beating the child. 

The Michigan Gaming Control Board was at the time investigating Malik and other investors in a local casino project to determine if they had the moral character and business deportment to hold a gaming license. Mr. Malik was later forced to sell his share of the project after the board ruled against him. 

With Howe Caverns $450 million proposal heading to the state for its final decision, it is not known how Mr. Malik's questionable past will affect the casino's odds before the state gaming commission, although it does raise doubts over the project's competency in selecting credible business partners. 

Vote in Our New Poll: What is Your Opinion of Supervisor McAllister?

No one man has more influence on the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors than Cobleskill Supervisor Leo McAllister and his coveted 16% weighted votes, which have proved pivotal in recent months on votes concerning the casino, stream bank work, and tax abatements. 

However, due to his significant role in county politics and his, oftentimes, decisive vote on policy matters, we are posing the question to Schoharie News readers in our latest poll of whether they view Cobleskill's Town Supervisor favorably or unfavorably in regards to his role as county legislator. 

Mr. McAllister is a successful businessman who has brought his financial know-how and private sector wherewithal with him to the county board. He was elected to the position last November after handily defeating then-Supervisor Tom Murray in the paradigm shifting elections. 

The poll will remain open until next Wednesday is located on the right-hand sidebar of the website. 

Sharon's Dollar General Takes Form

The purchase, and subsequent felling, of the shuttered St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church by Dollar General has paved the way for Sharon Springs thriving community to host its own small grocery and general goods store in town, and most importantly, at relative convenience on Route 20. 

Construction began on the national low-price chain's newest store this spring and has continued into the early part of summer, with healthy progress visible. Cranesville Block Co., Inc. poured the structure's concrete base on June 10th, and just this week, the store is beginning to take its form. 

In addition to the Sharon site, when completed, Dollar General has two other stores located in Schoharie County - one on Route 7 in the Village of Cobleskill and other on Route 30 in the Town of Middleburgh - both locations employ several employees and offer a wide variety of goods. 

Town officials vary in their timeline of when the location will be open to local shoppers, but best estimates pin the potential date at or before the upcoming 2014-15 school year begins; most likely mid to late August. Residents currently have to drive twenty minutes to Cobleskill or thirty to Esperance for groceries and goods. 

Old Stone Fort Set for Independence Day Celebration

Attacked by a myriad of hostile forces during the Revolutionary War - British, Native American, and Tory- Schoharie's Old Stone Fort withstood them all, and today the museum serves as a vessel to modern Americans on the amazing history of America's "Breadbasket of the American Revolution."

This Friday will be no different. 

The Old Stone Fort Museum will be holding its annual Independence Day celebration from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Readings of the Declaration of Independence and other documents of the period will take place at 11:00 and 2:00.

Members of the Tryon County Militia and other re-enactors will engage in "living history,' and visitor interactive debates on the issues of taxation, self government, and armed militias rebelling against the government," according to the Old Stone Fort's events webpage. 

All outdoor activities will be admission free to guests, while regular museum admission rates apply to indoor exhibits. The event is co-produced by the Schoharie County Historical Society and the Burning of the Valleys Military Association. 

Cobleskill Police Blotter (July 1, 2014)

The Cobleskill Police Department submitted the following press release concerning recent arrests by their officers in the Village of Cobleskill

Monday, June 23, 2014

At 12:54 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested William A. Harvey, 52, of Cobleskill, NY, on an Arrest Warrant for Harassment in the Second Degree. He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released. He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on July 8th at 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

At 11:55 a.m. Cobleskill Police arrested William A. Harvey, 52, Homeless, for Petit Larceny. He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and remanded to the Schoharie County Jail on $500 Bail/$1,000 Bond. He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on June 24th at 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

At 1:25 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Marissa S. Hadsell, 20, Homeless, for Petit Larceny. She was issued an appearance ticket and released. She is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on July 8th at 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

At 10:41 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Thomas Robert Sullivan, III, 23, of Jefferson, NY, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree. He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released. He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on July 22nd at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

At 4:50 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Peter Noone, 49, of Cobleskill, NY, for Petit Larceny. He was released and is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on July 15th at 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday, June 29, 2014

At 5:15 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Zachary Foland, 22, of Cobleskill, NY, for Harassment and Criminal Contempt. He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released. He is to return to Cobleskill Town Court on July 1st at 5:00 p.m.

June 2014 Fourth Friday Pictures

While graduates of Middleburgh Central School received their diplomas Friday evening, hundreds of residents and visitors packed Main Street to enjoy the community's June Fourth Friday, where building upon May's success, there was plenty to do and see the entire beautiful summer night. 

Middleburgh resident Sheila Donegan was enjoying the festivities Friday and forwarded several pictures of the event for our viewing pleasure. Fourth Fridays is the brainchild of the Middleburgh Area Business Association, and it has thrived under the direction of Jamie Casterlin. 

Without further ado, Ms. Donegan's selected photographs from June's Fourth Friday:

Charles Peterson showing off snakes outside
the reopened Fish Tales & Fur pet store

The Middleburgh Library had chalk and
bubbles ready for younger passersby.  

Sheryl Adams watches as youngsters
compete in a hula hoop contest

Wellington's to Host Garden Stroll & Art Opening

COBLESKILL, NY – Schoharie Valley Farm to School Project of Cornell Cooperative Extension is proud to announce its first fundraiser. Conducted in partnership with Wellington’s Herbs and Spices, it will feature the acclaimed local artist, Jason Schultz.

A Garden Stroll and Art Opening will be held from 12 Noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, at Wellington’s Herbs and Spices on Schoharie’s Rickard Hill Road. The public will have a chance to stroll through Wellington’s herb garden and art gallery to observe the exhibit of Jason Schultz's sculptures of reclaimed metal, wood and stone, with a chance to buy the pieces for their own home or business. An opportunity to “Meet the Artist” will be afforded to everyone who attends the exhibit opening.

The Tea Room at Wellington’s will have available lunch service, and there will be music, door prizes, and light refreshments offered, without a charge for admission.  A portion of all proceeds from the sales of Jason’s art works, from the time of the opening on July 13th through the exhibit period ending in September, will benefit the Schoharie Valley Farm to School Project, coordinated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties.

With this, Jason Schultz’s first exhibit in the Schoharie County region as well as being his first ever solo show, he acknowledges that he is extremely excited about the location, and the cause. “Wellington’s is a beautiful place with so many great features, perfect for an open air exhibit.” He adds that the cause that will benefit from his exhibit, Schoharie Valley Farm to School Project, is a positive program that he would like to help get much better recognition.  

He explains that more kids need to be educated on their nutritional needs, on where food really comes from and that, “it is hopefully coming from a local farm.”

Jason Schultz is an award-winning landscape designer and self-taught artist living in Albany, N.Y. Jason currently works at Faddegon's Nursery doing residential design, retail sales, garden consultations and lectures. He states that he views life from a perspective that allows his innate sense of creativity to influence all aspects of his work and play. 

Working with reclaimed materials, whereas others may see scrap metal or refuse, Jason envisions their potential for engaging art. He welds, grinds, chainsaws and paints to transform discarded materials into fearsome warriors, robust bird baths, impressive sculptures and whimsical pooches. Jason’s works are in demand for the residential backyard, for professional landscaping applications, and by art collectors. His hand carved flutes and figurines will also be on exhibit. 

For more information about the garden stroll, art opening and exhibit, contact Schoharie Valley Farm to School Project Coordinator, Regina Tillman, via email at rmt371@live.com, or call the office of Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties at (518) 234-4303 / (518) 296-8310. Owners Carolyn and Frederick Wellington, of Wellington’s Herbs and Spices, may also be reached at 518-295-7366.

Howe Caverns Casino Submits Application, Announces Owner

Editor's Note: The Schoharie News was excluded from the casino's original press release blitz, but we were sent a copy of the news from another media outlet to ensure immediate, local coverage of the important announcement. Below is the original release.

Howes Cave, NY – The Howe Caverns Resort and Casino today submitted its formal application to the New York State Gaming Commission for consideration of one of the four casino gaming licenses to be awarded this fall.

The submission of the application makes it official that Howe Caverns Resort and Casino is in the running for a license in the Capital Region.

Howe Caverns Resort and Casino also announced its owner and operator of the proposed resort.

The owner and developer is Michael J. Malik.  Mr. Malik has successfully developed casinos all around the world.  He is a successful entrepreneur in the gaming, sporting and entertainment industries. He initiated his career as a consultant and developer in Indian gaming during the 1980’s.

Since 1988, Mr. Malik has been a pioneer in the casino development industry, including major projects in California, Michigan, and New York.

Outside of the gaming industry, Mr. Malik is the owner of MJM Enterprises and Development.  He is involved in a variety of development projects, including hunting and fishing preserves, financing touring entertainment acts and developing business expansion projects.

Mr. Malik has been a real estate developer and licensed broker for more than 25 years.  He has developed many commercial projects and specializes in resort development, industrial parks, retail shopping malls and urban development. 

“The first time I saw the site, I knew it was a winner,“ Malik said.  “I’ve developed many resort destinations before and this site has all the ingredients needed to be a successful destination resort,” Malik continued.

“I’ve enjoyed learning about Howe Caverns and the Schoharie Community.  I look forward to learning more as we build upon the existing successful tourist attraction, breath taking scenic views, and close proximity to major highway’s, to attract visitors for miles,” Malik concluded.

Howe Caverns Resort and Casino also announced the resort operator will be Full House Resorts, Inc.

Full House Resorts and its management team have a track record of success with gaming projects in Nevada, Michigan, Indiana, Delaware, Oregon, South Dakota, Atlantic City, Louisiana, New South Wales, and Australia.

Full House specializes in regional resorts and has enjoyed much success in developing casino projects similar to the proposed Howe Caverns Resort and Casino.

Full House Resorts is headquartered in Nevada.  One of their original founders is former Chrysler Chairman Lee Iacocca.

“We are pleased to join the team at Howe Caverns Resort and Casino to produce a top-notch resort and casino,” said Andre M. Hilliou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Full House Resorts Inc.

“We look forward to working with Michael Malik, the team at Howe Caverns and the State Gaming Commission to develop a complex that has the potential to become one of New York’s premiere tourist destinations,” Hilliou continued.

Emil Galasso, owner of Howe Caverns said, “I am not only pleased that we were able to attract two of the best partners in the industry, but these are good people who will be a benefit to the entire Schoharie Community.”

“All along, I have held that we have the best site with the most potential to develop a successful resort and casino in the entire region, today, our chances got even better,” Galasso concluded.

The proposed resort includes a world class gaming facility with a 10-floor luxury hotel along with a contemporary waterpark and a second hotel.  The resort will include a number of dining opportunities including a fine dining restaurant.

The proposed project also includes the addition of a dinosaur theater as an added attraction at Howe Caverns.  The resort is anchored by the existing adventure attractions at the historic Howe Caverns.

The next phase will be to demonstrate to the New York State Casino Location Board that the Howe Caverns Resort and Casino is deserving of one of the four potential licenses.

With 330 acres of REAL shovel ready land that has a fully completed SEQRA study and on-site water and sewer capacity, the Howe Caverns Resort and Casino is well positioned to quickly develop from initial approval to grand opening.  

It is also the only site to include an existing tourist attraction.  Howe Caverns, the second oldest natural attraction in New York State, welcomes over 200,000 visitors each year.

Gaming, a waterpark, fine dining, and luxury accommodations will compliment the existing Howe Caverns adventure attractions drawing visitors from all across the U.S.

Most importantly, the proposed development also has the potential for the greatest positive impact on a community.  Suffering from a struggling economy, one of the highest unemployment rates in the state and continued recovery from devastating floods, Schoharie County stands to see a greater economic impact than any other potential location.

Built on a modern business model that relies on bringing new money into the region and state and not just recirculating existing dollars, the resort will grow Schoharie County tourism to the level of the Cooperstown/Otsego County area creating a regional tourism powerhouse that will benefit the entire State. 

July is National Park and Recreation Month

Cobleskill, NY – [June 27, 2014] – If you’re feeling cramped and like you don’t get to spend enough time outside, you’re not the only one. Nearly three in 10 U.S. adults do not spend time outside on a daily basis and of those who do, almost half spend less than 30 minutes in the fresh air according to a new survey released by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs. That’s why this July, Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play and NRPA are challenging everyone to get out and visit their community parks and recreation during national Park and Recreation Month. 

This year’s theme, “OUT is IN,” encourages individuals, families, friends and coworkers to do something outside everyday that they would normally do inside. From picnicking in the park instead of sitting inside at a table to sending an email or even holding a meeting outside, there are small ways you can make going OUT part of your daily routine. The parks and facilities in Schoharie County offer ample opportunities to go OUTside, get INspired, change your OUTlook and get INvolved. 

Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play has been working with local communities to improve the recreational facilities around Schoharie County. Improvements have been made in Esperance, Schoharie, Middleburgh, Sharon Springs, Conesville, Blenheim and Cobleskill. Many improvements will be getting installed this month so look for grand opening celebrations around the County. Hopefully this will encourage residents to get OUT and explore IN Schoharie County, says Maureen Blanchard, Project Coordinator for Creating Healthy Places. Check the website and Facebook page for updates on installation and grand opening festivities. 

In addition to getting involved in Park and Recreation Month locally, people are encouraged to take the OUT is IN 31-day social media challenge on Twitter and Instagram by posting photos of themselves doing typical inside activities outside with the hashtag #JulyOUTisIN. 

To learn more about getting OUTside and INvolved during Park and Recreation Month, visit www.schohariecreatinghealthyplaces.com and www.nrpa.org/July. 

Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play is a grant initiative through New York State Department of Health to increase access to places to be active and to fresh fruits and vegetables around Schoharie County. The grant was awarded to SUNY Cobleskill in 2010 for 5 years. The focus of the grant was to make changes to policies, systems or the environment to help promote a healthier lifestyle. Current funding expires in 2015. 

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 40,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.NRPA.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org. 

Sharon to Host Summer Concert Series

The Sharon Springs Citizens' Council for the Arts will be hosting its inaugural concert of the 2014 Summer Concert Series this coming Wednesday, July 2nd at 7:00 p.m. in the first of seven such musical treats at Chalybeate Park located on Main Street in the bustling community. 

Performances will change with each week, and will include a myriad of uniquely themed events such as Children's Night with magician Joey D and a Community Open Mike night, while featuring traditional artists and area bands the remainder of the time. The series concludes on August 13th. 

Poll: Readers Vote Down Full-Time Chair

Schoharie News readers overwhelmingly voted down our latest poll question that asked "Should the position of County Board Chair be made full time?" The proposal had been made several times over the years, but was reintroduced into discussion by Esperance Supervisor Earl VanWormer this legislative session. 

Should the position of County Board Chair be made full time?

Yes         - 20% (37 votes)
No          - 75% (142 votes)
Undecided - 5% (10 votes)

Many respondents left comments favoring the creation of a county executive or implementation of an public administrator/manager position. The Schoharie County Board of Supervisors recently established an Administrator Committee to study what effectiveness, if any, would result from implementing said changes in government. 

The poll was open for one week and was located on the right-hand sidebar of the website.