Cobleskill Hosting Women's March January 21st

Join us, your neighbors, making a statement by standing along Main Street to be seen standing together for our grandmothers, mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, partners and friends. We need to move forward, not back, for women's equality, regardless of a woman’s race, ethnicity, religion, immigration status, sexual identity, gender expression, economic status, age or disability.

This is a family friendly event. No Drugs or Alcohol, No weapons, No violence verbal or physical.

This is a Sister Action to the Woman's March in Wash, DC see guiding principles and mission at https://www.womensmarch.com/mission/ Questions Elliott Adams 518-441- 2697

ARC to Rally at State of the State Address

The bFair2DirectCare Coalition is planning to have a presence in Albany to rally outside the event.  Family members, DSP's and Executive Directors from ARC Chapters (NYSARC Chapters) and other service providers will be assembling to address the issue of the lack of  state funding to increase Direct Support Professional's wages- in a time when fast food workers are amongst the workforce seeing increased living wages that are paying more than voluntary service providers can for important, critical work and for supports that are critical to our most vulnerable--  people with developmental disabilities.

 Unlike private businesses who have the option to raise prices on products or reduce staff through automation, health care providers depend mostly on state funding to meet their payrolls. Voluntary service providers are seeing an alarming increase in staff vacancies and turnovers- because our staff are leaving us to earn higher wages at Fast Food industries and Stewart's, etc. Ultimately, this impacts greatly on those we support as well as they have no consistency in staffing and familial relationships, compromised access to vital supports and services, and it compromises their safety by not being able to meet the regulations for proper supervision in worst case scenarios.

You can find more information on this movement on the #bFair2DirectCare facebook page and NYSARC's facebook page as well. You can also follow the story on our site as well.

Photographs Exhibited at CWC

Photographs by Big Indian resident Michael Wentland are on display at the Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC), 905 Main St., Margaretville through March 15, 2017.

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays except holidays. Visitors are most welcome.
“The Catskills: Through a Lens” is an eclectic group of images that demonstrate Wentland’s  unique eye and affinity for the unusual. A herd of curious donkeys on an Andes farm is photographed from knee level; red taillights are reflected on the superstructure of the Woodland Valley bridge in a time-lapse image taken at dusk. In another night time shot, a Catskill Mountain Railroad coach appears adrift on the ocean after a snowstorm.

Wentland, who holds a BFA with an emphasis in Interior Architectural Design, is an artist, craftsman and educator who sees potential photo subjects at every turn. Although he loves landscapes, wildlife and portraiture, he most enjoys what he calls Americana Street Photography. Wentland typically shoots digital images but occasionally makes photos with his treasured 1924 Kodamatic camera.
His photographs are available for purchase in multiple sizes, framed or unframed. Contact him at mwentlandphotography@gmail.com

CWC Can Pay for Fuel Tank Anchoring

Home and business owners in designated flood hazard areas within the New York City Watershed West of the Hudson River can take advantage of a no-cost program to get their propane and fuel oil tanks anchored before the next flood.
The Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC) runs the program to secure above-ground tanks that could tip over within a building or float downstream during high water events, causing pollution, property damage and risks to public health and safety.
Oil tanks of up to 330 gallons and propane tanks of up to 420 pounds are eligible for this protective treatment if they are within 500-year flood elevations anywhere in the five-county Catskill-Delaware Watershed.
Larger commercial propane tanks are also eligible for this service but require engineered designs and individual funding approvals from the CWC Board of Directors.
The CWC will cover the entire cost of anchoring tanks within basements or outdoors, a process that is estimated at $800 to $2,300 per tank.  This involves emptying the tank, pouring a concrete pad if required, securing the tank with ground anchors and galvanized straps, and placement of vent lines within PVC sleeves with hookups at least one foot above the historical high water mark.
Fuel removed at the outset of the process will be replaced at no charge to the building owner.
Potential applicants should consult their town Code Enforcement Officer or John Mathiesen at the CWC (845-586-1400) for further information.
The CWC is a non-profit, Local Development Corporation responsible for several environmental protection, economic development and education programs in the New York City Watershed West of the Hudson River. www.cwconline.org.

Senator Bonacic Announces the Availability of Historic Preservation Grant Opportunities

 State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) is pleased to announce the availability of historic preservation grant opportunities through the Preservation League of New York State. The Preserve New York (PNY) and the Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) programs are made available to qualified not-for-profit groups and municipalities seeking funding for the preservation or restoration of historic buildings or structures with art or cultural purpose.

PNY grant awards range in amount from $3,000 to $10,000 and are awarded for historic structure reports, historic landscape reports, cultural resource surveys, or building condition reports. TAG grants will be a maximum of $3,000 and are intended for short-term technical studies including building condition surveys, engineering/structural analyses, feasibility/reuse studies, and handicapped accessibility studies.

“Many of the municipalities in the 42nd Senate District have a unique historical character, and these grant opportunities are a good way to help preserve that character,” said Senator Bonacic. “I would also urge local not-for-profits to explore these opportunities as well.”

The deadline to apply for these grants is March 27th, 2017. All questions should be directed to the Preservation League of New York State at 518-462-5658

January 13 is Registration Deadline for 35th Annual Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York’s 2017 Winter Conference

It’s the final two weeks to register for the 35th Northeast Organic Faming Association of New York’s (NOFA-NY) 2017 Winter Conference, Long Live the Farmer: Diversity & Biodiversity in Saratoga Springs, NY. From January 20-22, this year’s bonus includes the first Northeast Organic Seed Conference: Owning Our Own Seed.
“Each year our conference strives to inspire, inform, and provide an unparalleled opportunity for networking and for reciprocal reaching and learning,” noted NOFA-NY Executive Director Andrianna Natsoulas. “Including the Seed Conference is a wonderful addition to an already dynamic line-up of more than 100 workshops in 17 different tracks.”
Tying the two together is Keynote Speaker, the eminent CR Lawn, founder of Fedco Seeds. He will focus on creating an ethical, sustainable seed system and share strategies for overcoming obstacles. Many additional conference highlights include a seed swap, a special joint presentation by award-winning chef Dan Barber of Blue Hill at Stone Barns and Cornell vegetable breeder Michael Mazourek on chef-breeder collaboration, special half-day workshop intensives, a participatory on-farm horse-powered workshop, book signings, films, special discussion groups, and social activities.
Special interest tracks feature fruit, vegetables, livestock, grains, beverage, mushrooms, permaculture, gardening and homesteading, draft animals, plus marketing and business, policy, social justice, urban farming, small scale food processors, and community, education, and co-ops.  More than 80 conference exhibitors also will be in attendance.
Workshops and discussion groups will delve into what farmer diversity looks like. There will be a "Dismantling Racism" workshop led by Keith McHenry, as well as discussion groups for women, veterans and LGBTQ farmers and advocates. NOFA-NY aims to recognize divisions, bridge them and honor their diversity. Stephen Gabreil will organize a teach-in (or two) for Farmers in Action to prepare for civil leadership in the coming months and years. NOFA-NY also will live stream the events in Washington, DC so attendees can stay informed of what is happening in the nation’s capital.  
Mike and Gayle Thorpe of Thorpe’s Organic Family Farm are the 2017 NOFA-NY Farmers of the Year. Their family-owned and operated farm encompasses more than 2,000 acres of organically managed land in East Aurora, New York.  The Thorpes grow over 300 varieties of certified organic fruits, vegetables, hay, and grains, have a CSA of 540 families, and a citrus grove in Florida.
For attendees with children ages 5-12, a children’s conference with hands-on activities is available. Pre-registration is required. Full children’s conference fees are $130 or $55/day.
Online registration is open through Friday, January 13, 2017 at www.nofany.org/conference, or by calling the NOFA-NY office (585) 271-1979. Full conference registration is available ($285) or pro-rated for full- and half-day intensive sessions. NOFA-NY members receive a 10% registration discount. Walk-ins are welcome.

A 20% student discount may be awarded to groups of three or more students; those interested should contact (585) 271-1979. (Valid Student ID required.)  
Registration fees include breakfasts and lunches, all workshops (including the seed conference), trade show, keynote addresses, meetings, and all other scheduled activities.  The Saratoga Hilton and City Center is located at 534 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY.

Werner Rentsch Painting Auction Continues Through Feb. 4

Hanford Mills Museum in East Meredith is auctioning the painting Ice Cutting Hanford Mills NY by celebrated equine artist Werner Rentsch. The artist donated the painting, which features horses pulling a sleigh during an ice harvest at Hanford Mills, for Museum to use to raise funds. Mr. Rentsch created the painting after attending an Ice Harvest Festival at Hanford Mills Museum a few years ago.

Photos of the painting are available at hanfordmills.org, and the painting is also available to view at Hanford Mills Museum by appointment (call 607/278-5744). Bids are now being accepted online. The Auction will end on Saturday, February 4 at the 2017 Ice Harvest Festival, where in-person and online bids will be accepted.

“Ice harvests at Hanford Mills Museum have inspired many people to capture the event on film, and a handful of people to paint scenes as well. To have an artist of Mr. Rentsch’s caliber create and then donate a painting to Hanford Mills is certainly an honor and speaks to his talent as well as his generosity,” says Executive Director Liz Callahan.

Paintings and prints by Werner Rentsch are widely sought after by collectors around the world.  He has been honored with nine one-man shows and his work was shown in 12 museum exhibitions and in more than 40 juried or group shows in America.  Well known for his paintings of equine subjects, Werner has painted many portraits of great- and near-great horses from racing, show jumping, foxhunting and polo.  He is a lifetime member of the American Academy of Equine Art and served as president from 1994 through 2008. He is a signature member of Artists for Conservation and his work was selected for the organization’s 2012 and 2013 exhibitions.

About Hanford Mills Museum
Hanford Mills Museum operates an authentic water- and steam-powered historic site, which includes a sawmill, gristmill and woodworking shop. The mission of Hanford Mills Museum is to inspire audiences of all ages to explore connections among energy, technology, natural resources and entrepreneurship in rural communities with a focus on sustainable choices. The museum, which is listed on the National and New York State Registers of Historic Places, will open for the 2017 season on May 17.

Hanford Mills is located at 51 County Highway 12 in East Meredith, at the intersection of Delaware County Routes 10 & 12, just 10 miles from Oneonta, and 15 miles from Delhi.  For more information, visit www.hanfordmills.org or call 607-278-5744

Spring Creative Nonfiction Course with Anique Taylor February 9 - May 18, 2017

Writers in the Mountains (WIM) will present its spring Creative Nonfiction workshop with Anique Taylor, February 9 to May 18, 2017. The class will be held Thursdays, 11 am to 1 pm at the Pine Hill Community Center, Main Street, Pine Hill, NY.

In a college-like semester packed with excitement and growth, this extended class will offer writers possibilities for deepening their craft, group support and continuing work on long projects. With a preference for exploring memory, risk, danger, dreams, different versions of reality and deeper connection with self, the class will explore personal essay, memoir, journal work, writing for ourselves and for publication.

Class exercises will familiarize students with techniques of poetry, fiction, playwriting to provide tools to hone their work. All welcome - students with long projects, short projects or those who want to take it week by week.

Anique Taylor has co-authored works for HBO, Scholastic, Simon & Schuster. Her writing has appeared or is forthcoming in The World (St. Mark's Poetry Project), Rattle, Common Ground Review, Adanna, Earth's Daughters, Stillwater Review, and e-Bibliotekos' Pain and Memory. She's given featured NYC readings at St. Mark's Poetry Project, Dixon Place, the Speakeasy, Cedar Tavern. Her chapbook Poems is published by Unimproved Editions Inc. Her chapbook Where Space Bends was chosen Finalist for both Minerva Rising and Blue Light Press' 2014 Poetry Chapbook Competitions and Under the Ice Moon was Finalist in Blue Light Press' 2015 Competition. She holds a Poetry MFA from Drew University, a Drawing MFA from Pratt Institute and a Diplome in French Literature from the Sorbonne. She has taught Creative Writing for Benedictine's Oncology Support Program, Bard LLI, Artworks and Phoenicia Poetry Workshop.

To register for this class, call Jean Stone at (607) 326-4802, or e-mail her at jtstone@catskill.net. Class fee is $100, if you register and pay three weeks before the class begins, and $125 after that.

2016 Eagle Scouts Celebrated at Recognition Dinner

Utica, NY – On January 9th, the Leatherstocking Council celebrated the lifelong achievements of 77 young men who attained the rank of Eagle Scout in 2016. Thirty-four of those Scouts and their families attended the recognition dinner at Harts Hill Inn in Whitesboro, NY.

The Leatherstocking Council celebrated its class of eagle scouts for 2016 at Harts Hill Inn.  Pictured are 36 of those scouts being recognized from left to right:

1st row:  Dauda Knapp of Little Falls, NY; Griffin Darrow of Chittenango, NY; Emmanuel Esparza of Oneida, NY; James Lee of Rome, NY; Brandon Parry of Lake Delta; Matthew Collandra of Washington Mills, NY; Robert Gustke of Chittenango, NY; Alex Teeter of Chittenango, NY; and Jimi Wadnola of New Hartford, NY.

2nd row:  Colton Fox of Utica, NY; Paul White of Clark Mills, NY; Ben Kilian of New Hartford, NY; Ethan Bailer of Lee Center, NY; Cooper Humpf of Rome, NY; Christopher Salamone of Frankfort, NY; Brandon Schuster of Rome, NY; and William Hilts of Verona, NY.

3rd row:  Jonathan Perry of Chittenango, NY; Christopher Hanrahan of Clark Mills, NY; Kyle Tessier of Chittenango, NY; Dan Knauth of Sauquoit, NY; Jonah Capella of Chittenango, NY; James Aaserud of Canastota, NY; Will Harloff of Cooperstown, NY; and Zack Aaserud of Canastota, NY.

4th row:  Ryan Pitt of Chittenango, NY; Iain Herring of Sauqoit, NY; Kory Pollicove of Marcy, NY; Kegan Kleeschulte of Unadilla, NY; Joe Rowlands of Rome, NY; Michael Vecchio of Clark Mills, NY; Anthony Birch of Fly Creek, NY; Ryan Auger of West Winfield, NY; and Joseph Taylor of Rome, NY.

To achieve the rank of Eagle, Scouts must progress through a series of advancements that become increasingly more difficult and complex, requiring mastery of outdoor skills, citizenship, leadership and community service. Only 2% of approximately 100,000,000 Scouts across the United States have reached the rank of Eagle since 1910. Within the Leatherstocking Council, that number is closer to 6%.

These young men personify the Scout mission to grow young leaders as expressed by the event’s keynote speaker Peter D. Lopez, 102nd New York State Assembly District, an Eagle Scout from Schoharie County.  Assemblyman Lopez shared several lessons he learned as a young man that continue to play out in his professional career.

The culmination of the Trail to Eagle, is the Eagle Scout project. This service project must benefit the community and require the Scout to lead a team of volunteers to complete the project on time and to the satisfaction of the beneficiary. In 2016 the 77 Eagle Scouts from the Leatherstocking Council contributed more than 1,540 combined Eagle project service hours to the community.

Service is not new to these Scouts and the Leatherstocking Council. A recent analysis of service hours submitted by units in the Leatherstocking Council shows that a record number of community service hours have been recorded in 2016.

“If you combine all the service hours given by the units in our Council in 2016 you get a staggering number.” Said Steve McEwan, Scout Executive for the Leatherstocking Council “In 2016 there were 11,676 hours completed. As a point of reference, there are only 8,760 hours in one calendar year. Think about that, and what Scouting provides not just to our communities, but to the character building of the youth performing that service as well. It is a win-win.”

Eagle Scout, Peter D. Lopez, 102nd New York State Assembly District was the evening’s keynote speaker

Register Now for Bright Hill Winter/Spring Literary Workshops and Book Clubs for Kids

Bright Hill Press & Bright Hill Literary Center of the Catskills, located at 94 Church Street, Treadwell, NY, announces its 24th annual Winter Literary Workshops for Kids Program and its Winter/Spring Bright Kids Book Clubmeetings.

The registration deadline for the workshops program is January 31; Bright Kids Book Club begins Saturday, January 14, from 12:30 - 1:30 pm. All programs take place at the Bright Hill Literary Center, 94 Church St., Treadwell, NY. All Bright Hill Literary Workshops for Kids include writing and visual arts. Children ages 6-14 are eligible. Students in grades 7-12 (ages 12-18) are eligible for the Winter Teen Intensive Workshop. Workshops are led by Bertha Rogers, Executive Director & Master Teaching Artist.  There is a fee, but Bright Hill also offers full and partial scholarships.



The Fighting Ground by Avi
For the first book of the winter, the Bright Kids Book Club will read The Fighting Ground by Avi; they will meet from 12:30 - 1:30 pm on January 14, 28, and February11.  For the second book, they will read Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. The Book Club is free, and each participant receives a free copy of the book being read. Franklin residents Lorinda Morgan and Wendy Barckhaus lead the book club sessions, and refreshments are served.

The two workshops are:
1. Winter Literary Workshop for Kids: Ages 6 - 14 - Who Has Seen the Wind? It takes place for 5 CONSECUTIVE DAYS - February 20 - 24 - 9 am - 2:30 pm  (BOCES Winter Break). During the workshop, the kids will learn about the physics of wind: what causes wind, how it moves, how it changes. The kids will build wind chimes and kites and write legends and poems about the wind. On the final morning of the workshop, performer/musician Carl Welden and Poet Robert Milby of Rosendale will teach a mini-workshop on reading poems to the accompaniment of the theremin, the instrument invented by Leo Theremin. For the parents' program, the students will read their poems and riddles, accompanied by Carl on theremin. Snacks included, but bring your own lunch.

2.  Winter Teen Intensive Workshop:  Ages 13-18 - Wind Works; it takes place on two Saturdays, March 4 & 11 from 9 am - 2:30 pm - This workshop is also led by Rogers. During the workshop, the high-school students will study how wind works, will write stories about the wind and its effects, and build their own working wind turbines. On the last afternoon, they will present their writing and turbines in a program for parents and friends. This workshop is limited to 7 high-school students.  Snacks included, but bring your own lunch.  The second day ends with a mini-exhibit and program for parents and relatives and friends.

For registration forms and more information call 607-829-5055, write to BHC, 94 Church Street, Treadwell, NY 13846, visit the organization's website, Bright Hill Press or e-mail Bright Hill at  wordthur@stny.rr.com

Breastfeeding Support Offered at UHS Pediatrics Sidney

Breastfeeding support is currently available every Tuesday from 1PM-4PM on the top floor of UHS Pediatrics at 44 Pearl Street in Sidney; for patients and the public.

 Dr. Jayasena’s office in Sidney is providing a private space for patients and the public to receive support and education from a Certified Lactation Consultant, CLC every Tuesday. UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Health Departments of Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties are working together and each agency is providing a CLC to the office to offer support and education to breastfeeding and expectant moms. CLCs can answer your questions regarding nursing and offer ideas to help ease your transition back to the workforce. Breastmilk provides the ideal nutrition for babies. Breastfeeding is the first step to a healthy life. It provides advantages to babies that cannot be matched by any other form of feeding and strengthens the bond between mother and baby. Breast milk helps protect a baby from colds, diarrhea, and respiratory and ear infections. Breast milk also reduces the risk of allergies, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and obesity.

 According to the CDC “The success rate among mothers who want to breastfeed can be greatly improved through active support from their families, friends, communities, clinicians, health care leaders, employers, and policymakers.”

 The partnership of agencies is working together to give assistance and encouragement to breastfeeding moms. Stop in on Tuesday at UHS Primary Care to see a CLC; appointments are always welcome. Call UHS Pediatrics at 607-561- 2200 for additional information or to set up an appointment.

Micro Ag Grant Now Available for Third Year

The Delaware County Department of Economic Development is pleased to announce the receipt of funding under the State’s Community Renewal Funding program.  The approved $200,000 grant will enable the continuation of the County’s Agricultural Microenterprise Program for a third year. Although the ag-micro program will continue to seek to aid in the expansion of existing small agricultural businesses, and encourage the development of new, agricultural micro enterprise businesses, it will also aim to help in the growth of agriculture based tourism businesses within the County. Entrepreneurs applying for these grant funds will be required to complete a series of small business workshops which have already been scheduled and are fast approaching. Seating is limited; register soon.

In support of the needs of these existing and emerging agricultural ventures, the Agricultural Microenterprise Program will establish a $190,000 fund offering grants of up to $30,000 to assist small businesses in financing the costs of starting or expanding their agriculture related business operation.  Grant funds will require a dollar for dollar match, and may be used to offset a portion of the working capital and machinery/equipment expenses of the business project. Acquisition, construction or renovation expenses will not be eligible for reimbursement but will be considered, as appropriate, for inclusion as matching expenses. 

Additionally; the Office of Community Renewal requires that all recipients of these grant funds participate in small business training as component of the Agricultural Microenterprise Program. As a result, the Delaware County Department of Economic Development is utilizing the services of the Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship (CADE) to provide entrepreneurs with the required educational resources, including topics such as; local farming community/practices, developing your farm plan, a financial overview, and developing a sales and marketing strategy. These classes are scheduled over three Saturday sessions beginning later this month (January 28^th, February 4^th and February 11^th). Entrepreneurs interested in applying are encouraged to register (http://www.cadefarms.org/events-1/2017/1/28/business-planning) and attend these trainings as there are no other planned training dates. Seating is limited; don’t delay.

Through the 1^st year of this grant program 21 applications were received and $185,000 in funding was awarded to the following 13 businesses; Vulto Creamery, Township Valley Farm, Muddy River Hops, Berry Brook Farm, Unadilla Hops, Catskill Food Company, Roxbury Mountain Maple, Anderson’s Hillbilly Honey, Dirty Girl Farm, Catskill Cattle Company, Lucky Dog Local Food Hub, Byebrook Farm and Stamford Smokehouse. Last year, the second year of the program, an additional 22 applications were received and 13 more projects were selected to share in receipt of the $185,000. These 13 projects included; Home Grown Custom Meat Processing, East Brook Farm, The Green Shepherd Farm, Good Cheap Food, Treadlight Farm, Kerrs Creek Distillery, Carrs Creek Pastured Meats, Bovina Valley Farms, Wayside Cider, Creek-Crest Holsteins, Berried Treasures, Polar Bear & More, and Stony Creek Farmstead. Summaries for the projects each of these businesses are undertaking or have completed will be made available through the Economic Development website (www.DCEcoDev.com) in a few weeks.

Information on the process and deadline to apply for these grant funds will be available mid. February 2017.  To learn about this and other business initiatives, programs and funding opportunities available through Delaware County, please visit the Delaware County Economic Development website at www.DCecodev.com or contact; Delaware County Economic Development, One Courthouse Square, Suite 4, Delhi, NY 13753, by phoning (607) 832-5123 or emailing info@DCecodev.com.  To stay informed, please “LIKE” the departments page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DelawareCountyEconomicDevelopment/.

Mrs. K's to Reopen Monday

Photos and story credit Sheila Donegan

If you happen to be walking down Main Street in Middleburgh, you may have noticed that there has been a “closed” sign on the door of Mrs. K's, due to her recent passing. People have been asking when the cafe might be re-opening.

Lights were on inside on Saturday afternoon, and someone came to the door.  It was Patty. She gave official confirmation that the cafe will be open at 6am on Monday, January 9.  That is welcome news for all of the people who enjoy this mainstay of the community.

Guest Poem: Inspiration

Inspiration
Frank S. Kovacofsky, Middleburgh Honorary Poet Laureate

We live in a world that can be either harsh or kind.
We search for ideas to fulfill our minds.
Be it artwork or authors, or brothers in mind!

It works like a puzzle, one piece at a time.
Than bursts out of our brain like a landmine.

The thoughts, they come out with no warning it seems!
Sometimes we can find them even in dreams.
We sometimes don’t know exactly what they mean.

But these Ideas we follow and share with the world.
They keep us sane and safe and remind us what’s true.
And remind us that everything can be safe or unglued.

There are time when things fall apart.
And are times People can all have a heart.

This is where I find my inspiration.
When people are kind, work together and there’s no perspiration.

Inspiration.

County Board Renames VanWormer Chair. Reshuffles Committees

VanGlad Appointed Vice Chair

The Schoharie County Board of Supervisors held their annual reorganizational meeting on January 5th.

There was a contested vote for Supervisor, with Harold Vroman challenging sitting chair Earl VanWormer. Most of the Supervisors voted for VanWormer, with the exceptions of Harold Vroman of Summit, John Bates of Seward, Pete Coppolo of Middleburgh, and Peggy Hait of Jefferson. The weighted vote was 2217 for VanWormer and 757 for Vroman.

For Vice Chair, John Bates initially abstained, then voted for VanGlad. Supervisors Vroman, Coppolo, Hait, and Vroman each voted for Harold Vroman for Vice Chair. The remainder chose Tony VanGlad of Gilboa. The weighted vote total was 2381 to 593.

Chairman VanWormer thanked the Board for their confidence. He thanked County Attorney Michael West for his service, as well as the Board Clerk Sheryl Largeteau and Deputy Clerks Judi Beeler and Charity Bender. “We have some really talented people in the office," he said.

VanWormer thanked County Administrator Steve Wilson, describing his “learning curve” and his work for the County. The Chair also thanked County Treasurer Bill Cherry for his service, including as flood recovery administrator. “We do have great employees in this county,” he said, adding that they should be thanked for their hard work. “Hear, hear,” responded Supervisor David Simkins of Broome.

“I’m just going to do the best that I can,” VanWormer said.

Chair VanWormer named the committee assignments for the year. Several Supervisors asked for minor changes. Supervisor Skowfoe requested that solid waste responsibility be removed from the Public Health Committee. Supervisor Tague requested that the Extension Agriculture Conservation Committee meet monthly. He said that talking to the Administrator and Planning Department there was much to discuss.

VanWormer said that he is changing the committees to five members each, with most of the Supervisors chairing at least one committee. He said he did this in consultation with the Supervisors and to spread the load. Each Supervisor is on at least four committees, with some on five or six.

Supervisor VanGlad also thanked the Board for its support and said that he would work with the Chair in that endeavor.

The County Board discussed Resolution Number 14 to keep the sales and use taxes steady for for a two year term beginning December 1, 2017. The Board also kept the mortgage tax the same rate.

Supervisor VanGlad asked the County to sign a contract for emergency mold removal from the County Annex. Supervisor Leo McAllister of Cobleskill asked if this would be covered under the 2017 budget. Supervisor VanGlad replied that it would be. The amount for the removal would be $2,500.

Schoharie County Board Makes Key Appointments

The Board made a number of appointments and designations at the reorganizational meeting on January 5th.

The Board reappointed Lewis Wilson, Republican Party County Chair, as one of the two Election Commissioners, alongside Democratic Party County Chair Clifford Hay. The Board named several official depositories, including NBT Bank, Bank of Coxsackie, and JP Morgan. The Mountain Eagle and the Times Journal were named the two official papers of the County.

County Administrator Steve Wilson was reappointed Budget Officer for another year term. In this appointment, the Board was almost unanimous. Supervisor Phil Skowfoe of Fulton was opposed.

Dale Nunamann, Richard Cooper, Scott Johnson, Gregory Baxter, Aaron Cooper, Robert Ziegler, and Floyd Seales were each named Deputy Fire Coordinators. Supervisor Sandra Manko of Sharon and Planning Department employees Shane Nickle and Alicia Terry as representatives to the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board for a two year term.

Ted Shuart was renamed County Historian. Supervisor Earl VanWormer of Esperance was appointed a member of the Schoharie County Community Action Program for a one year term and as a member of the Schoharie County Maple Festival.

The Board also appointed members of the Schoharie County Fire Coordinator Fives Team, Hazardous Materials Team, Search and Rescue Team, Firefighter Assist and Search Team, Fire Advisory Board, and Youth Board.

Ninth Annual Winter Green-Up Grazing Conference January 28th

   The Ninth Annual Winter Green-Up Grazing Conference will be held Saturday, January 28, 2017 at The Century House in Latham, NY, from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
   The Winter Green-Up Grazing Conference is a nationally known event which made its debut in 2009 and has been held annually since. This year’s Winter Green-Up will continue the tradition of well-known national and local speakers who bring a wealth of knowledge in the areas of soils, grazing and sustainable agriculture.
   This year’s impressive lineup of speakers includes Blaine Hitzfield from Seven Sons Farm in Roanoke, Indiana. Blaine will tell the story of how Seven Sons Farm moved from a traditional row crop, livestock confinement operation to their current pasture-based, stacked enterprise model.
   Dr. Rachel Gilker, editor of the electronic newsletter, On Pasture, has a deep passion for sustainable agriculture and grazing. She spent three years doing her doctoral research with Maryland Dairy Farms, using management intensive grazing. Rachel will talk about compaction in your pasture and maximizing your soil’s health.
   Doug Carmichael, from the Michigan State University Lake City Research Station has managed 810 acres of land and 180 beef cows in a grass based livestock finishing program. Doug will discuss how to enhance winter gains to finish grass-fed animals in 18 months.
   Our fourth speaker is someone many of you may know, Phyllis VanAmburgh of Dharma Lea Farm in Sharon Springs, NY. Phyllis and her husband, Paul, own a 100% grass-fed dairy, which was one of the first grass-fed dairy farms in the country. Phyllis is the director and chief educator of the Agrarian Learning Center and The Savory Institute. Phyllis will present information on using holistic resource management in a pasture-based dairy and beef operation.
   To register for Winter Green-Up 2017, contact Tove Ford at (518)765-3518 or register online at https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/WGU2017_201. The cost to attend the Winter Green-Up Conference is a bargain at $75.00.

Cuomo Commutes Sentence of Brinks Robbery Driver

Governor Andrew Cuomo pardoned the driver in one of the most high-profile robberies in recent American history. On December 30th, Cuomo commuted the sentence of Judith Clark, who was the getaway driver in the 1981 Brinks armored car robbery in Rockland County by Weather Underground radicals.

The New York Times reported on the developments. Clark will be eligible for parole in 2017. She was originally sentenced to 75 years for her participation in the crime, which killed two police officers and the Brinks security guard. The judge in the case believed that Clark could not be rehabilitated.

Cuomo said that the former participant made "exceptional strides in self-development." The commutation was opposed by law enforcement organizations.

Clark is now 67. Two of the figures involved in the robbery are still incarcerated while another is a professor at Columbia University after serving a twenty year sentence.

Cuomo met with Clark earlier this year in prison. She has spent almost all of her sentence in Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison. She spent two years in solitary confinement.

Before she joined the Weather Underground, which commited a number of terrorist attacks in the 1960s and 1970s, Clark was a member of the May 19th Communist Organization, committed to a race war.

Since imprisonment, Clark earned a bachelor's degree and helped with inmate educational programs.

Lambing and Kidding 101: New Farm Workshops at Heather Ridge Farm

Preston Hollow, NY    If you are new to keeping sheep or goats, come take workshops on a working farm with an experienced farmer on the basics of breeding and birthing. Carol Clement will lead two workshops for beginners on lambing and kidding at Heather Ridge Farm. If you are a new farmer or a wannabe, this is for you. Members of 4-H and FFA are welcome.

   Workshop One, Jan. 21, 11am to 3pm, covers from breeding to gestation, care of the pregnant ewe or doe, nutrition, parasites, and getting your birthing supplies organized. You will see farm’s animal quarters set-up for breeding groups and gestation, and meet the sheep, goats and guard animals. Please reserve by Jan .13.

   Workshop Two, Feb. 4, 11am to 3pm, covers the period just before birth, birthing, troubleshooting labor problems, supplies needed, and newborn care. Workshop participants will be invited back to the farm during the birthing period to see the newborns and their care.

   Each workshop costs $40 adult, $20 for 18 and under, and includes lunch and materials. (An adult & child together can pay a reduced combination rate of $50). Please call Carol at 239-6234 to reserve a spot. Heather Ridge Farm is located at 989 Broome Center Road, Preston Hollow, NY 12469. www.heather-ridge-farm.com

Cobleskill Police Blotter

Wednesday, December 28, 2016

At 5:06 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Brandon S. Roe, 23 of Sprakers, NY, on Arrest Warrants for Attempted Assault 3 rd and Harassment 2 nd . He was arraigned in Cobleskill Town Court and released. He is to return in Cobleskill Town Court on January 3 rd at 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 29, 2016 At 11:35 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Brianne J.L. Scott, 25, of Cobleskill, NY, for Violation of the Village Noise Ordinance. She was issued an appearance ticket and released. She is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on January 19th at 4:00 p.m.

Friday, December 30, 2016 At 6:30 pm, Cobleskill Police arrested Duane E. Condon Jr., w/m, age 30, of Delanson NY for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3 rd . He was issued a traffic ticket to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on January 24 th at 4:00 pm.

 Saturday, December 31, 2016 At 5:00 p.m. Cobleskill Police arrested Robert Schmidt, 38, of Oneonta, NY, for Cruelty to Animals. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. He is to appear in Cobleskill Town Court on January 24 th at 5:00 p.m.