Supervisors to Convene Special Meeting Tonight

The Schoharie County Board of Supervisors are convening a special county board meeting tonight to discuss an issue related to The Special County Administrator Exploratory Committee, according to the official agenda.

Supervisors are scheduled to meet at 4:00 p.m. on the third flood of the Schoharie County office complex. 

Although nothing has been publicly confirmed or disclosed, rumors are floating that the recently created Administrator position is facing both external and internal push-back, perhaps the cause of tonight's session.

Opinion: Rural America's Suicide Epidemic

Rural America is often seen as the heartland of this great country, with Schoharie County a shining representation of all its hard working ethos and well natured community spirit.

However, if The Atlantic's Julie Beck is to believed, our position might also put us in the cross-hairs for tragedy:

In rural America, where there are more guns, fewer people, and fewer doctors than in the urban U.S., young people are at particular risk of suicide.

A study published Monday in JAMA Pediatrics analyzed suicides among people aged 10 to 24 between 1996 and 2010, and found that rates were nearly doubled in rural areas, compared to urban areas.

She stated the aforementioned in her recent piece "The Growing Risk of Suicide in Rural America," an eye opening and question spurring article that addresses several issues we have grown increasingly accustomed to in our own community.

Namely, the county's lack of sufficient employment opportunities and a growing sense among young people of feeling out of place with a population that is rapidly aging. Combine that with a cultural stigmatization and we are in trouble.

The statistical realities are just as disheartening, according to Beck:

Both adults and adolescents are at greater risk of suicide in remote areas of the U.S., according to a 2006 literature review. But suicide is in general more common among adolescents and young adults: It’s the third leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the second for people 25 to 34, and the 10th most common among the general population.

So what are we to do? We know Schoharie County isn't immune to this type of tragedy - just last fall a SUNY Cobleskill student took his own life on campus. What is the solution to a problem that can impact anyone from any background?

Well, whatever the solution, it has to begin with the recognition that there is a problem to begin with and that once we can accept that reality, we can let go of a cultural stigmatization that only emboldens a sense of apathy and loneliness.

After that acceptance the rest will fall into place, most of which involves an increase in mental health awareness and societal understanding. I don't think it can be stressed enough that the simple act of understanding can make the difference.

For anyone who is going through difficulties and needs a kind voice to hear your troubles, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and talk to one of their caring counselors, because your life is worth it. 

Coby Police to Utilize Body-Worn Cameras

Chief of Police Rich Bialkowski announces that the Cobleskill Police Department is currently using body-worn cameras in its daily operations and interactions with the public.

“We saw the need, and the benefit, of having officers equipped with body-worn cameras in early 2014. Prior to the widely-publicized events that occurred in Ferguson, Missouri and New York City last year, we began exploring camera options and funding sources. We were able to obtain several body-worn cameras and began testing them over the summer on a limited basis in different scenarios and under various circumstances. Once we tested them, we were convinced that they would be a great benefit to the department,” said Chief Bialkowski.

Once the evaluation and testing period was completed, the department then obtained enough body-worn cameras to equip every patrol officer and patrol supervisor, as well as our investigator. In November 2014, all officers received training in the use of the body-worn cameras and they were put into full service. Currently, most of an officer’s daily interactions with the public are recorded, including arrests, investigations, accidents, searches, and traffic stops to name a few. The body-worn cameras are a supplement to the department’s in-car mobile recording systems, which officers will also continue to use.

The body-worn cameras are capable of taking audio and video recordings, as well as still images. They can record in light or dark situations. The body-worn cameras were obtained at no cost to the Village by use of STOP DWI funds as well as drug seizure funds.

The reasons for the use of the body-worn cameras are simple. They offer increased evidence collection and documentation capabilities during arrests, searches, incidents, and investigations. They offer transparency and accountability on department operations and officer interactions with the public. They safeguard the department and its officers against false complaints of misconduct. They may also be used as an aid to evaluate officers’ actions when complaints do arise, and they will also be used as a training tool.

“As a department, the use of technology to aid in our mission of delivering professional law enforcement services in a cost-effective manner is something that we will continue to explore and utilize to the best of our ability in order to most benefit our community. My hope is that using the body-worn cameras will assist in enhancing public trust and confidence in what we do,” said Chief Bialkowski.

Schenectady Man Arrested for Mburgh Burglary

Henry Castaing, 30, from Schenectady was arrested by State Police related to a burglary investigation in Middleburgh.  The burglary occurred at a private residence in July of 2014 where household items and tools were stolen.  

One arrest had been made previously in the investigation and additional arrests are anticipated.  Castaing was linked to the burglary through a DNA data-bank hit which placed him in the scene of the crime.  He was charged with Burglary 2nd, a felony, and was turned over to the custody of the Schoharie County Sheriff in lieu of bail.  

County Democrats Hold Slight Cash on Hand Advantage

Schoharie County's Democratic Party is in good shape financially to pose a solid challenge to local Republicans this fall, although it wont do them much good with no publicly declared countywide candidates in the mix yet. 

According to the most recent data available from the New York State Board of Elections, county Democrats maintain a $1,600 on hand cash advantage over their GOP counterparts with eight months until the off-year elections.

However, county Republicans maintain the overall advantage heading into the campaign season. An advantage that is due in no small part to the recent announcements that County Clerk Indica Jaycox and Treasurer Bill Cherry are seeking re-election.

With two countywide offices and all sixteen supervisor seats on the ballot in November, both parties are expected to intensify their fundraising efforts in preparation for the election season to come.

Although not as significant, the true wildcard could be in how much of a role the Schoharie County Conservative Party takes in fielding its own candidates and cross-endorsing potential allies in the major parties.

Running their own candidates for Sheriff and Town Supervisor in 2013, the Conservatives have established a small but potent following among the county's ideologically similar electorate, particularly in the southern portions of the county.

As of publication, there are no publicly declared Democrat or Conservative candidates for county office, and no announced contenders for any of the sixteen open supervisor positions.

Two Seats Open on Middleburgh Library Board

With the retirement of two of its longest serving members fast approaching, the Middleburgh Board of Trustees is in need of a few good people to step up to the plate.

That was the message Library Director Teresa Pavoldi delivered to board members on Monday night, as neither of the soon to be open seats have received much interest from the general public since the petition process began on February 28.

Requiring only twenty-five signatures from residents of the Middleburgh Central School District, the trustee petition needs to be submitted by Saturday, March 28th to ensure placement of its candidate on the Tuesday, April 28 library ballot. 

Anyone over the age of eighteen and residing in the school district can pick up a petition for either open position, which have been caused by the term-limiting of longtime Trustee Sarah Beekman and the retirement of Trustee Jim Spencer. 

Located at 323 Main Street interested residents may pick up a petition at the library's front desk during its hours of operation. 

The Middleburgh Library Board of Trustees meets monthly on the second Monday at 6:30 pm in the Community Room.

Preventing E-cigarette Poisoning in Children

Editor's Note: Our friends at the The Child Fatality Review Team, which is a committee in Schoharie County comprised of members from community agencies dedicated to child safety, requested that we post the following article on the necessity of preventing E-cigarette poisoning on children.

Poisoning is the leading cause of death from injuries in the U.S. and 9 out of 10 deaths are caused by drugs. Between the years 2010 and 2014, e-cigarette exposure calls to Poison Control totaled over 3,000. Exposure to carcinogens for children under 5 has increased from 7 in 2010 to over 2,000 in 2014.

An E-cigarette (otherwise known as e-cig, personal vaporizer) is a lithium battery-powered vaporizer which resembles cigarettes and simulates smoking. It delivers a vaporized propylene glycol/nicotine mixture into the user’s respiratory system as a vapor (instead of smoke). Vapor is created from heating the liquid nicotine mixture that is contained in the cartridge.

Vaping means to inhale and exhale the vapor produced by an e-cig. While vaping does not produce second hand smoke, it has been shown that e-cigs are a source of secondhand exposure to nicotine. While safer than cigarettes, there is still exposure to some carcinogens.

The liquid (e-juice) is what is most poisonous. It contains a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine and flavorings. The liquid comes in bright colors, candy and fruit flavors that appeal to children. Currently, there are no requirements to make the containers childproof. It only takes a few drops absorbed through the skin or swallowed to result in an emergency room visit and only 1/3 ounce can be fatal to a child.

If you use e-cigarettes or know someone who does, please take precautions and treat it like any other poison in your home. Lock it up and place it out of the reach of children. Keep the National Poison Help Line number by your phone or stored in your cell phone 1-800-222-1222.

For additional information on general child safety topics, contact the Schoharie County Child Fatality Review Committee Coordinator at 295-2016. We are dedicated to keeping children safe and alive.

2nd Annual DonkeyBall Set for Friday, March 20

Yes, basketball and donkeys don't necessarily go well together, but they will go together at the Second Annual DonkeyBall Fundraiser to support The AED Project - Schoharie County. 

Set for Friday, March 20th, 7:00 p.m. at the Cobleskill-Richmondville High School gymnasium, tickets for the fun filled event are available at Carpets & Then Some, Fit Coalition, or by contacting organizer Nancy Brumaghim at nan.c.b71@gmail.com. 

Organized to raise money for the AED Project, which seeks to both inform about and provide portable Automated External Defibrillators to youth leagues in Schoharie County, the event features high school athletes riding donkey back. 

The event is made possible by Green Mountain Donkeyball from Danby, Vermont; and the participating teams consisting of athletes from Cobleskill-Richmondville, Middleburgh, Sharon Springs, and Schoharie Central Schools. 

Last year's DonkeyBall debut was attended by over five hundred spectators and raised over $2,000.00 in support of the project's cause to increase local safety and raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest.

Fighting Tigers Fall Short in First NCAA Bid

COBLESKILL - SUNY Cobleskill's Fighting Tigers have reached the end of the line in a magical season that culminated with an appearance on Friday evening in the school's inaugural NCAA III Men's Championship Tournament contest.

Reaching the big dance after winning the North Eastern Athletic Conference championship last Sunday over Lancaster Bible College, the men's basketball squad has invigorated a sense of school pride not seen on the rural campus in years.

Led by head coach Matt Allen, who is now in his seventh season of coaching at SUNY Cobleskill, the Fighting Tigers have struggled since joining the NCAA in 2008.

A powerhouse in the NCJAA, the transition has been tough on their morale. 

However, combining the right cast of characters and setting for the men's basketball squad, the 2014-15 season can be described as nothing short of inspiring for the program. The team finished 17-11 on the year. 

Facing off against William Paterson University on the home team's court in New Jersey, the Fighting Tigers were behind the Pioneers from the start. Unable to convert in the paint, Cobleskill struggled to gain momentum offensively.

Momentum that stayed with the Pioneers until the final buzzer sounded with them holding a commanding 80-54 lead over the Fighting Tigers.

Earning distinction for SUNY Cobleskill's Fighting Tigers were Mike Chapman and Cortrell King. Chapman for becoming the first Cobleskill athlete to score in NCAA history and King for ending the game as the first Tiger with double digit scoring.

State Police Arrest Coby Man for Falsely Reporting Terrorist Activities

On March 05, State Police arrested Bradley A. Hingeley ,40, of Cobleskill, NY for Falsely Reporting an Incident 3rd Degree and Resisting Arrest, both misdemeanors. Hingeley had contacted the New York State Terrorism Tips Line 1-866-SAFE NYS (1-866-723-3697) and falsely reported information that a subject was engaging in terrorism related activities. 

An investigation determined that Hingeley had fabricated the information about the subject's conduct for ulterior motives. Hingeley physically resisted arrest while he was being taken into custody. He was arraigned in the Town of Cobleskill Court and remanded to the Schoharie County Jail in lieu of bail.

The New York State Police continues to encourage the public to contact the NYS Terrorism Tips Line 1-866-SAFE NYS (1-866-723-3697) with any information or suspicions related to terrorism. These tips are then immediately acted upon and thoroughly investigated to ensure public safety.

Man Arrested for Disturbance at Cobleskill Holiday Motel

Troopers arrested an Albany County man for multiple charges following a disturbance that occurred at the Holiday Motel in Cobleskill.

Timothy L. Harrington was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief and Attempted Criminal Trespass following a 911 call that originated from a room at the Holiday Motel.  Harrington was located walking on State Route 7 as Troopers were responding to the call of a disturbance.  

Further investigation revealed that Harrington kicked in a door while attempting to enter a room, damaging the door.  After the occupants of the room were able to secure the door Harrington attempted to flee on foot.  Harrington was arraigned in the Town of Cobleskill Court and remanded to the Schoharie County Correctional Facility on cash bail. 

Sheriff's Nab Sharon Man on Harassment Charges 

Schoharie County Sheriff's Deputies arrested twenty-five year old Corey A. Merwin Thursday evening on an arrest warrant for aggravated harassment in the second degree stemming from an incident in the Town of Sharon.

Mr. Merwin was arraigned in the Town of Carlisle court and remanded to the Schoharie County Jail to appear in the Town of Sharon court on Wednesday, March 19th.

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Invasion Presentation at Mine Kill State Park

On Saturday, March 7, 2015, join Mine Kill State Park staff, regional biologists and other volunteers to learn about the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) and its terrible effect on New York’s eastern hemlock trees.  Participants will learn up-to-date details about the invasive pest with an informative presentation on the history, origins and current status of HWA in New York State by Cornell University Professor, Mark Whitmore. Other presenters will include volunteers from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schoharie County and the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP).  Following the presentation, guests will learn how to survey hemlock trees at the park for the presence of HWA.  Data collected from the survey will be used to construct a comprehensive management plan for HWA at Mine Kill State Park and the New York Power Authority. Additional surveys will provide further information on the status effort to contain HWA and preserve as many of Mine Kill’s beautiful hemlocks as possible.       

HWA was first discovered in the park in 2011 and has since been identified in many different areas surrounding Mine Kill State Park and New York Power Authority Blenheim-Gilboa property.  HWA, a tiny insect native to Asia, lives and feeds on eastern hemlock trees (Tsuga Canadensis). Originally detected in the Southeast Appalachian Mountains in the 1960’s, HWA is capable of killing an otherwise healthy eastern hemlock tree in a matter of a few years. Many species of hemlock can survive infestation, but eastern hemlock is susceptible to the pest, which latch onto the trees and consume the stored starches that the trees need for growth and survival.

HWA is of particular cause for concern for New Yorkers, as New York is one of the most heavily forested states. And with hemlocks being the 4^th most abundant tree species in both the State and region, the loss of hemlock stands would have a major impact in the Catskills, which rely greatly on forests for wood products, tourism, and ecosystem services. Additionally, the death of large stands of hemlocks could pose an increased wildfire risk and the risk of tree fall, both of which are major concerns for State Parks and the DEC.

The HWA presentation and survey will begin at 11 AM on Saturday, March 7^th, at the New York Power Authority Blenheim-Gilboa Visitors Center, located approximately 1 mile north of Mine Kill State Park along Route 30 in North Blenheim, NY.  Following the presentation in the NYPA theater, volunteers will be provided with a GPS, survey forms, a map and other surveying equipment to use in the field.  Volunteer groups will survey a wide area of hemlocks surrounding the beautiful Blenheim-Gilboa Reservoir and Mine Kill State Park.  All participants will return to the NYPA visitors’ center by 2:30PM to conclude the survey.  Refreshments will be provided to volunteers during the event.     

Please remember to bring proper hiking attire, footwear, snacks and water.  Admission is free to all program participants and a limited number of snowshoes are available to use on a first come, first serve basis.  For more information about this event, please contact the park office at (518) 827-8690. 

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.  Mine Kill also boasts the only permanent, 18-hole disc golf course at a state park in the Saratoga-Capital Region.  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.

Jaycox to Seek Third Term as County Clerk

Surrounded by family, friends, and supporters at the Daughters of the American Revolution house in Schoharie, County Clerk Indica Jaycox announced her campaign to seek a third term in office at a fundraising kickoff dinner on Thursday evening.

Explaining that she "continues to love serving the public," Mrs. Jaycox emphasized that she cares about the people of Schoharie County, and providing as best service to them as possible in the county clerk's office.

Schoharie County Clerk Indy Jaycox surrounded by
her husband of forty-four years, one of three children,
and two of six grand-children.

An office she has worked in since 1985, starting as a county employee under former county clerk Forest Wollaber in the Department of Motor Vehicles. Before that she worked in various fields and raised her children after graduating from high school.

Appointed to fill the remainder of then newly elected Assemblyman Peter Lopez's clerk term in 2007 by outgoing New York Governor George Pataki, Jaycox has successfully won two full terms in her own right, despite facing challenges both times.

Challenges that fail to compare to the devastation Hurricane Irene's wrath wrought upon the county clerk's office on Sunday, August 27th, 2011, which Mrs. Jaycox described as the biggest challenge of her career.

Finding the strength in herself to overcome the devastation of Irene, which left thousands upon thousands of public records destroyed and her office scattered across the county, Jaycox oversaw the return of the county clerk's office to Schoharie.

Commenting that "I will never say I love the challenges of the job, because that was the most difficult," the incumbent was seemingly relieved that the worst is behind for her office.

With the future in mind, Jaycox is focused on advancing the county clerk's system technologically forward with electronic recording and filing, which she stated optimistically, will be put in place "hopefully within the next two years."

Supported on Thursday night by members of the county board, her office, and other dignitaries from both parties, Jaycox, who is seeking the Republican nomination, noted the positive feedback her campaign has already received from the community.

"I feel I got very good support," she commented while looking across the room. Pausing for a second, she added: "That was proven in 2011."

Letter to the Editor: Time for Us to Fight Constitution as a Community

Dear Editor,

I find three things to be extremely frustrating. First and foremost, that in the United States of America, a company centered on corporate greed, lies, intimidation, and bribery can claim the land of hardworking people and do what they would like with it. Two, that our elected officials do absolutely nothing to represent the people that put them in office and had faith in them to do the right thing. Three, and to me this may be the saddest bit of it all, that many members of the county who are thankfully not directly impacted by the implications of this Pipeline have chosen to remain silent and comfortable regarding the matter at hand.  While I am upset with our elected officials I cannot say that I am surprised.  When it comes down to it, not offending supporters and making business allies in future political campaigns seems to be the main goal.  The people of our area are hardworking, family oriented people that lead busy lives to make sure their loved ones are cared for, and while I realize there is not always extra time to research or speak out against things happening to others in the community, this is an instance where I would urge people to try to find the time.  Constitution Pipeline has given out grants to many businesses and organizations that could use the money desperately to benefit the people of this area. Recreation programs, Fire Departments etc. While I do not blame these people for accepting the money I hope they realize what it was and take it at face value. BRIBES and HUSH MONEY. At the end of the day, this could happen to any of us. With future pipeline proposals coming down the line, I would like to remind people to be aware that nobody is safe from this terrible injustice unless we ALL do something now.  At the end of the day, if this project gets the thumbs up, my family and countless others will have their property invaded by strangers and lose our peace of mind all for something that is not going to benefit our area in any way, shape or form regardless of the nonsensical information the company has been distributing.    Thank you to concerned citizens such as J. Fiore and R. Nied for your relentless efforts at spreading awareness and fighting back. We could all learn a thing or two from you.

Thank you,

Alanna Fiore

Boil Water Advisory Lifted in Cobleskill

The Village of Cobleskill's four day boil water advisory has been lifted after two rounds of testing have revealed no contamination, ending the municipality's water main saga that began last weekend. 

Prompted by a pipe bursting on Borst Noble Road on Sunday evening, almost all village and some town residents were without water for only a few hours as work-crews made the necessary repairs and it all started to flow again.  

A boil water order was put into place out of precaution, which led to a campus wide restriction on water usage at SUNY Cobleskill. Additionally, certain cafes and all water fountains were placed off limits. 

However, just when the situation appeared to be subsiding, another water main break occurred on Canterbury Drive early Thursday morning. That burst, characterized as a leak by officials, was under control in only a few hours. 

Testing consisted of collecting bacteriological samples and being examined at a lab for harmful contaminants. This is was done by checking both the chlorine residuals and total coliform bacteria levels. 

The advisory was lifted Thursday evening in an announcement posted on the village's facebook page. 

Letter to the Editor: Problem Gambling - Have the Conversation

Dear Editor,

In honor of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the New York Council on Problem Gambling has joined forces with the National Council on Problem Gambling, New England Consortium of Problem Gambling Providers, and New York State Prevention Providers, to encourage families, friends, and organizations, to have the conversation about problem gambling during the month of March.

March has become one of the biggest gambling occasions because of the popularity of the NCAA "March Madness" Basketball Tournament. A 2009 Microsoft survey estimated that 58 million Americans fill out sports brackets each year, and according to a Las Vegas odds maker, about $12 billion is wagered on the March Madness tournament, making March the largest month for individual bets.

March is also Problem Gambling Awareness Month and year's theme is "Problem Gambling: Have the Conversation." Between six and nine million people meet criteria for gambling problems, and it is estimated that each person with a gambling problem affects between 8-10 others. Problem gambling impacts relationships, families, businesses and communities. Gambling disorders create physical and mental health problems including a higher risk of suicide, domestic violence, bankruptcy, and work performance issues.

Only a fraction of problem gamblers seek help. Many who suffer in silence do so because they don't know they developed a problem, what gambling addiction is, or where to get help. Gambling disorders are too devastating to individuals and society to allow to go unnoticed and unattended. 

Signs and symptoms that there may be a problem with gambling may include: participating in cards, lottery, or office pools often, using sick time to gamble, talk or worry about money problems, a history of writing bad checks, unable to explain the origin of new items of value and possession, and any change in personality or behavior, particularly hypertension, ulcers, or depression.

Overcoming a gambling addiction isn't easy but there are programs to help. For more information call SCCASA at 518-234-8705. To find out more information call 1-877-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369).

- Norine Hodges

Release: Schoharie Fresh is Budget Friendly

Cobleskill, NY (March 5, 2015) – A local family from north of Saratoga, has had to learn to survive on a limited income over the last several years. Their young adult daughter, became ill in 2011 and had to move home to her parents’ house in 2012. The daughter Claire (name changed for privacy) is a self- taught “chef” and worked in an exclusive restaurant in Albany as a prep chef until she became ill in 2011. She has a passion for food, but unfortunately doesn't have the strength to shop and prepare her own foods any longer. While searching the internet one day last fall, she found Schoharie Fresh and found some independence. 

Claire is able to go on line and select foods and plan menus meeting her dietary needs using the Schoharie Fresh website. Her mother Tammy and her father John make the trip to Central Bridge a couple times a month to pick up their order. Tammy commented that the selection is incredible. They are able to purchase so many more varieties of vegetables than through a store and Claire is choosing the foods, which has given her some control in a situation where she doesn’t have a lot of control. Plus, since the items are fresh, they tend to last longer than store bought vegetables that have been shipped and have had to go through a longer distribution process than is used at Schoharie Fresh. When they shop every couple of weeks, the food stays fresh until the next trip. 

The best news was the fact that they are really saving money. Tammy said that they are able to budget their limited resources better because they know how much the vegetables will cost. Schoharie Fresh sells produce by the piece or quart and not by weight which eliminates guessing as to what something will cost. For Tammy who has chosen to stay home with her daughter, this is important.  Tammy figures that they are able to purchase twice as much produce through Schoharie Fresh than what they would purchase through the store for the same amount of money. They do not have the luxury of spending a lot of money on produce that will go bad before they use it. Tammy commented that the drive to Central Bridge is over an hour long, but well worth the trip! She is supportive of Schoharie Fresh and would like to educate others that buying through Schoharie Fresh is good for your budget. 

Schoharie Fresh is an online farmers market with a location on the SUNY Cobleskill campus as well as at Bethany Lutheran Church in Central Bridge and Schoharie Presbyterian Church in Schoharie. Schoharie Fresh re-opens for sales as of January 30th with the first customer pick up on February 6th. Orders for Schoharie Fresh need to be placed by Wednesday at 11:59 PM for pick up on Friday afternoon at one of the three locations. Please refer to the website www.schohariefresh.com for additional information and to see product availability. Schoharie Fresh has received funding from the Creating Healthy Places grant at SUNY Cobleskill, a New York State Department of Health grant that was awarded to SUNY Cobleskill in 2010 as well as a United Against Hunger grant through the United Way of the Greater Capital Region in 2014. Schoharie Fresh has over 40 producers from Schoharie County selling a wide variety of products that are grown, raised or produced in Schoharie County. For more information please contact Maureen Blanchard the Project Coordinator for Creating Healthy Places at blanchma@cobleskill.edu.

Stamford Resident Named to Hartwick Dean's List

Sophomore Chelsea Joyce of Stamford, New York has been named to the Dean's List at Hartwick College for the fall 2014 semester. Ms. Joyce is majoring in the university's nursing program.

Inclusion on the Hartwick Dean’s List is an indication of excellent academic work, including the completion of a full course load with at least a 3.5 grade point average based on a 4.0 scale.

Hartwick College is a private liberal arts and sciences college of 1,500 students, located in Oneonta, NY, in the northern foothills of the Catskill Mountains. Hartwick's expansive curriculum emphasizes an experiential approach to the liberal arts. 

Through personalized teaching, collaborative research, a distinctive January Term, a wide range of internships, and vast study-abroad opportunities, Hartwick ensures that students are prepared for not just their first jobs, but for the world ahead. 

A Three-Year Bachelor's Degree Program and strong financial aid and scholarship offerings keep a Hartwick education affordable.

Blenheim Moves Forward on NY Rising Projects

BLENHEIM - Members of the Blenheim Town Board were informed Monday evening that the New York Rising Community Reconstruction Program has entered its next stage, with the committee of citizens tasked with identifying potential work projects having finalized their work and transferred the program over to the municipality for completion.

Board members quickly agreed to go forward and pursue the top projects on the compiled list, which included constructing a new town hall, fire department, and town highway building outside of the flood plain zone, allowing the facilities to also serve as a command center and shelter if another natural disaster were to occur.

State representatives seemed optimistic that the projects would be approved by the state, Supervisor Shawn Smith told board members, and as a result the town has begun the process of submitting the applications required for final approval. 

The total amount of money awarded to the town of Blenheim is $3 million dollars, but in an abundance of caution the Town is only proceeding with the relocating of town facilities at this point to be sure that they do not overspend the allotted money.  

Stating that "The last thing we want to do is end up in a situation where were start a few projects and find out that we are over budget due to change orders or other unforeseen circumstances," Smith believed that another project could be possible if there is still money remaining in the grant after the initial projects are completed.

As the board discussed the project Smith recommended that he thought the requirements of managing a project this large would require more time and oversight than would be possible for the town board and Clerk to commit to.  

Smith indicated that he had been in contact with Shane Nickel at Schoharie County Planning and their office said they would be willing to serve as the sub recipient of the grant and aid in implementation of the project.  

Councilwoman Grabowski stated that she too “thought the scope of the project and federal reporting requirements were too cumbersome for the Town to handle on its own” and made a motion to authorize Schoharie County Planning to serve as the sub recipient of the grant.  The motion was seconded by Councilman Keyser and all voted in favor.  (Anne Mattice-Strauch and Joe Ward were excused from the meeting).  

While there is still one last level of approval, it is anticipated that the projects will be approved in the next month or two and the Town can then formally begin the projects.  

In other business, Blenheim town board members:

• Discussed a resolution expressing the town's opposition and condemnation of eminent domain being used by pipeline companies. The resolution was introduced by Supervisor Smith, but it was tabled until the full board was present to discuss its language. 
• Heard from Highway Superintendent David Mattice that  “despite us having a very tough winter we are lucky that all of our trucks and equipment have held up great, and as a result we have a very low repair bills this year.”  
• Voted to change the date of its April town board meeting from Monday, April 6 to Tuesday, April 7 at 7pm. 

Letter to the Editor: Shame on County for Cuccinello's Firing

Letter to the Editor It was with great sadness that I heard of the dismissal of Andy Cuccinello as EMS Coordinator for Schoharie County. Having been an EMT, I had the opportunity to be instructed by and work closely with Mr. Cuccinello and found him to be a very pleasant and capable medic and manager. But it was with anger and disappointment that I heard of circumstances of that dismissal. Mr. Cuccinello is a 40+ year resident of Schoharie County. For over 30 of those years he has served as a volunteer Firefighter, TAC Force member, EMT-Paramedic, EMT instructor and 16 years as the Deputy EMS Coordinator personally responsible for saving countless lives and aiding our residents in the course of his career. He was given the position of interim EMS Coordinator after the retirement of Bill Averill and then later hired to fill the position. The Board of Supervisors decided to add, to the already burdensome budget, a new position of Emergency Services Director in order to "fix" a system that wasn't broken. (Why not just hire a new EMO Director at no extra cost to the county taxpayers?) The position was filled with Mike Hartzel; a newly transplanted Schoharie County resident and military veteran whose service to our country I am very grateful for. I believe it is worth noting that he is also lacking any experience in Fire and EMS and has very limited experience in the Emergency Management field. Yet one of Mr. Hartzels first actions after having been in this management position for ONLY 3 MONTHS was to give Mr. Cuccinello a less than satisfactory evaluation for his EMS services over the past YEAR. Be aware that prior to that time, Mr. Cuccinello had NEVER received any negative reviews in his employment. After a year of Mr. Cuccinello serving as EMS Coordinator, Mr. Hartzel went into executive session with the Board of Supervisors and requested Mr. Cuccinello's dismissal as Coordinator for reasons that are yet unknown to anyone outside of that meeting (as they still had him listed as "probationary"). It was granted and a demotion to the position of medic and a five figure a year cut in salary was offered to him. Mr. Cuccinello refused the offer and retired from county service. Who could blame him? Mr. Hartzel’s actions are almost understandable. I can see that as a new resident, being inexperienced in a newly hired position, he might feel intimidated or even threatened by an intelligent and capable veteran medic such as Mr. Cuccinello. I suppose you don't really need any practical experience to be an office manager, but with actual lives on the line, a competent leader would, at the very least, listen to those who do have it and not allow ego to influence decisions that directly threaten the residents he was hired to serve. I was even willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and hear what he had to say at a meeting he had convened a week after the dismissal but was turned away at the door being told that county residents were not allowed admittance (which is a direct violation of NY State Open Meetings Law; an oversight I will chalk up towards his inexperience). What I cannot forgive, what absolutely infuriates me, is the actions, or lack thereof, of the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors. Mr. Cuccinello was never permitted an audience with any of the committees or supervisors, never afforded the respect due to someone who has given so much, who faithfully served this county for so long; never given an explanation in regards to the destruction of his career by one transplant with ZERO NY State EMS knowledge. I personally met with Cobleskill Supervisor Leo McAllister and spoke of my dissatisfaction at their lack of respect for Mr. Cuccinello and their total disregard for his career and future given his service to them/us over the decades. He said he understood and agreed and that he would speak to the other supervisors. At the next Emergency Services meeting, Mr. McAllister asked for an executive session. After several unreturned phone calls, I have heard nothing. Nor, at last speaking, has Mr. Cuccinello. Mr. Cuccinello informed me that he has attempted several times to speak with them but was told that it was all handled in executive session and they are forbidden to speak about it even with him. It seems to me that if you're the subject of an official meeting then you should either be told beforehand and/or, at the very least, told afterwards what you are being accused of and fired for. It seems to me that Mr. Cuccinello should be allowed to face his accuser/s and address any accusations made against him. It seems to me that he should be respected enough to be looked in the eye instead of knifed in the back by those he has faithfully served for so long. But, sadly, it also seems to me that the use of the Executive Session has become an overused vehicle enacted by power hungry moral cowards so as to be virtually unaccountable for their words or deeds. This county has so far spent over $500,000 trying to justify the termination of another county employee. A figure that is still growing, by the way. (That's right folks; despite what we've been told, that one ain't over yet!) And Mr. Cuccinello couldn’t even get a meeting? One inexperienced person was dissatisfied with his job performance and he was offered termination or a demotion with a huge pay cut. 90% of the residents of this county are dissatisfied with the job performance of the Board of Supervisors and they received a pay raise this year. I wish someone could explain THAT disparity! And I highly question that his dismissal was due to "scheduling conflicts" as Supervisor Van Glad reported in the TJ article. (Which would even be news to Mr. Cuccinello.) So the position of EMS Coordinator remains empty as there were no qualified applicants at this last posting demonstrating a huge lack of forethought by those who should have that very quality. I can almost forgive Mike Hartzel because he hasn't been the terrified parent watching his child slowly suffocate from an asthma attack when Andy Cuccinello walks in and, in a few minutes has the kid not only breathing normally but also laughing. He hasn't been the son standing helpless as Andy works desperately to save his father in cardiac arrest. He hasn't been trapped in an all but crushed vehicle with Andy voluntarily sitting beside him calming him and tending his wounds as firefighters cut him free. He hasn't been laying on a stretcher in the back of an ambulance at 3am on a cold, snowy night breathing what he thinks is his last few breaths only to have Andy reassure him that his life will continue. Mike hasn't. The members of the Board of Supervisors, however, have. Some have directly benefited from his services and dedication to duty and their actions should reflect some semblance of decency and loyalty to that dedication. I say shame on any of them who allowed this travesty to occur. Shame on you! Despite this county’s lack of true leadership, I have every confidence in the two competent but overworked medics we have left and pray that they are allowed to do their jobs and that no resident meets harm or death because of the actions of the few cowardly or egotistical individuals in positions of authority. Maria C. Cartwright Cobleskil

SUNY Cobleskill's Preston: A Tigress On the Court

COBLESKILL - To say it was a difficult season for the SUNY Cobleskill Women's Basketball squad, who won only two games this year, would be an understatement. However, even the team's darkest moments over their twenty-three game schedule had a silver lining.

That silver lining being forward Shelby Preston.

Standing tall at five feet eleven inches with a determined but kind gaze, the Sophomore described the Fighting Tigers poor 2014-15 season record as "really frustrating," although personally she menaced opponents on the court offensively and defensively. 

Averaging 16.7 points, 15 rebounds, and 33.9 minutes per game, Ms. Preston often served as the team's anchor. An anchor that was necessary with only four players returning from the previous season and the team having to adjust to a new coach. 

Preston's performance on the court was substantial enough to earn her All-NEAC Third Team honors for a second consecutive season, but her focus never strayed far from the team. 

Walking into a new season with two new coaches at the helm, Ms. Preston explained that she and her teammates "didn't know what to expect from the start," and that a significant amount of time was invested into figuring out their coaching styles in the beginning. 

Still, the forward thrived on the court. Saying that it came to her this year after working hard in the summer and improving multiple aspects of her game over the offseason, Preston downplayed her own accomplishments this year in favor of those yet to come.  

Although unsure about the team's direction under coach Phil Knapp moving forward, Ms. Preston - a Communications major - is intent on returning to the court next winter, of which she commented, "I hope next season is a lot better."