Out Lexington Way

By Christine Dwon

Congratulations to the Hunter-Tannersville CSD Drama Club student directors, Allyson Kappel and Kadyn Maul and all the cast of Disney Pixar “Finding Nemo -  Kids” and student directors, Emma Constable and Lizet Molina Rodriguez and all the cast of Disney “High School Musical, Jr”, the Production Team and many others.  Both performances were held on Oct. 25 and Oct. 26 at HTC school in Tannersville and all the hard work and commitment by all involved resulted in wonderful performances and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.  You all deserve a big round of applause! 

The West Kill/Lexington Community Improvement Association would like to thank everyone who came to the Halloween Brunch at the Community Hall in West Kill on Oct. 27.  As always, the food was plentiful and delicious.  The children had a great time painting pumpkins and the hall was beautifully decorated in the spirit of Halloween.

Friday, Nov. 1 from 4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. is Hope Restoration Christian Fellowship 25th Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner at the Hope Restoration Church, 117 NY 296, Windham.  First come, first served.  Same great chefs and same delicious meal.  No reservations required.

Nora Carr’s birthday is Friday, Nov. 1.

Monday, Nov. 4 is Emma Wilson’s birthday.

Also celebrating a birthday on Nov. 4 is Amanda Truesdell.

Diane Pendarvis and Roger Staley celebrate their anniversary on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Nov. 5 is Sue and Alfred Truesdell’s wedding anniversary.

Best wishes to all.

Be sure to turn your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday, Nov. 2 because Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, Nov. 3.

The annual Charge Conference for the Mountain Top Parish Churches is Sunday, Nov. 3 at 1:30 p.m. in the Kaaterskill UMC in Tannersville.

Election Day Turkey Dinner, Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lexington/West Kill UM church hall, 54 County Route 13A, Lexington.  Takeouts only.  Menu includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, pumpkin pie or apple pie, for a free will offering.

Greene County Department of Human Services – Greene County YMCA Veterans Day Luncheon is Friday, Nov. 8 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.  Free lunch for veterans of our communities.  Space is limited and you must be a veteran to attend.  Register to save your spot – 518-731-7529, cdymca.org.

Virgil E. Deyo #1327 American Legion Auxiliary is holding their annual Veterans Bake Sale on Saturday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to noon at Jim’s Great American in Prattsville.  Buy, bake or donate, all proceeds benefit local veterans.

Lexington/West Kill UMC Administrative Council meeting is Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 4 p.m. in the church hall.

CPR Certificate Course BLSCPR, Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Main Street Community Center, 5494 NY Hwy 23, Windham, will be led by Charlotte Osborn who is providing class at significantly reduced fee for the community.  Cost is $40.  Call 518-734-4168.

Thanksgiving Meal Kits will be available for anyone in the Mountain Top Community.  All requests must be in by Tuesday, Nov. 18.  Contact Amber Renner at 518-821-7198 or Antoinette Fischer at 518-821-9190.  Kits include one frozen turkey, two canned vegetables, cranberry sauce, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, bread and pie.  Pick up is Friday, Nov. 22, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Hunter Elementary School cafeteria.  Delivery is available, ask about it when reserving a kit.  Kits are sponsored in part by The Hunter Foundation, The Platte Clove Community, Tannersville TOPS, HTC Community Families and Mrs. Puddle Ducks.

There will be a Spaghetti and Meatball Fundraiser Dinner for our community member, Mark Cline in his fight against Parkinson’s.  The dinner will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the Community Hall, 141 Spruceton Road, West Kill.  Suggested donation is $15, takeouts and dine in.  Tickets may be purchased in advance or available at the door.  Contact Hope at 917-903-0107 or Barbara at 518-821-5845.  Donations also requested for a raffle that night and desserts for the dessert table.

The Greene County Department of Human Services Senior Nutrition Program menu for the week of Nov. 3 – Nov. 8 is as follows:  Monday—Chicken Dijon, mashed potatoes, Monaco vegetable mix, peaches; Tuesday—Vote Today--Department and all meal sites closed--no meals; Wednesday—American Goulash, corn, green beans, cookies; Thursday—Lemon pepper fish, Sonoma vegetables, rice pilaf, butterscotch pudding; Friday—BBQ pulled pork, baked beans carrots, coleslaw, fresh fruit.  All persons age 60 and older and spouses are invited to join for lunch.  Suggested donation is $4 per meal.  Congregate dining reservations are required at least a day in advance by noon by calling the appropriate center.  The number to call for the Senior Service Center at the Jewett Municipal Building, Route 23C, Jewett is 518-263-4392.

Thank you to all law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, dispatchers, healthcare providers, volunteers, veterans and actively serving military, farmers, truck drivers and so many more.

Prayers for all who are dealing with loss, illnesses, healing, difficulties, our country, our military and their families, the world.

Until next week take care, be thankful, be respectful, be safe and please be kind to one another.  Your act of kindness may change someone’s life.

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BETTER THAN HEARSAY - Not Crashing the Joint

By Michael Ryan

LEEDS - It was pretty hard not to notice the election campaign signs for Congressman Marc Molinaro peppering the grassy knoll above the entranceway to Leeds Hose Company No. 1, last Friday morning.

There were probably 40 of them, and more had been taken down near the firehouse prior to the arrival of Governor Kathy Hochul, making room for parking along the main highway, on the outskirts of Leeds.

Hochul was in town to announce a $1 million grant which was met with jubilation by the Leeds volunteer firefighters and ladies auxiliary, and colleagues from throughout the State (please see related story).

The hearsay is that Molinaro, a Republican, was either not invited to attend the event in his own District by the Governor, a Democrat, or his campaign had heard his opponent, Democrat Josh Riley, was going to be there.

Maybe both or neither but Molinaro reportedly showed up in Leeds hours before Hochul, who rolled in with her entourage around high noon. 

Nobody I asked saw hide nor hair of Riley although he’s been very visible during the past few months with his campaign ads splattered all over the television, trying to keep up with similar splattering by Molinaro.

Their race is reportedly in the Twilight Zone of spending, somewhere in the $35 million range and rising, for one measly Congressional seat.

A logical question is…why would that election be worth winning - so much - that this kind of money is sensible to spend?

Even more curious is, why would it be so worth losing to be dropping that kind of dough on it? Where’s the money coming from? What’s it buying?

The further hearsay is that a lawn chair was made ready for Molinaro, atop the grassy knoll, looking down at where the Governor would be speaking. Seeing that would have been worth the $35 million.

Hochul was joined by State Senator Michelle Hinchey, Homeland Security Commissioner Jackie Bray, Greene County Emergency Services director John Farrell and Assemblyman Chris Tague, all seated in the front row.

They all gave speeches, except Tague, who clapped but didn’t rise from his seat when everybody else within eyeshot did, applauding the Governor’s financial windfall and words of admiration for firefighters.

Tague has had to deal with bad hips in the past but he was circulating in the crowd well enough, so it stuck out that he didn’t take part in the standing part of the standing ovations.

I bumped into the Assemblyman an hour or so after everyone was long gone, at a Stewart's Shop in Cairo, a few miles from Leeds.

We shot the breeze a bit, and I remembered the night I met Tague, walking on Main Street in Prattsville, the first time he was running for office.

His down-home style sounded real back then. It still does and I didn’t hear this from him, as the saying goes, but some drama apparently also surrounded his appearance in Leeds.

The way it was told to me, Tague was likewise not on the Governor’s list of initial invitees, snubbed in his own District, which he didn’t take sitting down, or then again perhaps that’s exactly what he did.

Tague, too, is from GOP country, and therefore in the minority in Albany. The way I hear tell, he got on the phone to the Governor’s office after getting left off the Leeds list and expressed his displeasure.

Over the years, Tague has done well with voters and firefighters in Greene County, a GOP stronghold, not surprisingly faring better than Hochul.

So he pushed a few buttons and said he would love to stage his own event across the street from the Governor, possibly drawing a better crowd. Ah, the beauty of politics!

I didn’t see the Molinaro signs when I arrived, needing to scope out a spot where I could get photos, encountering unexpected resistance to my plan.

Not being the sharpest tack in the box, I grabbed a chair close to the speaker’s podium with a good angle and plunked myself down.

It then occurred to me, with all the lurking security dudes and dudettes in shiny shoes and sunglasses, that I ought to make sure it was okay to suddenly pop up in front of the Governor like a Halloween ghost.

I went to a woman who appeared to be official. She said that wasn’t her call but that I should wait. She would go find that person.

Some very fidgety guy came over and said that wouldn’t work, nervously informing me that, in fact, I would have to move my seat.

“You’re blocking the aisle. It’s a fire hazard,” the guy said. I looked at some firefighters sitting in a row next to me and said, “imagine that. Me being a fire hazard. In a fire house!” I laughed. No one else did.

So I moved and as it turned out, I popped up in front of the Governor and she didn’t blink an eye. I admit, though, I think it would have been fun to watch her reaction if Molinaro and Tague had crashed the joint.

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Hochul Announces Leeds Hose Company Grant

By Michael Ryan

LEEDS - The air of mystery surrounding a visit by Governor Kathy Hochul to Leeds Hose Company No. 1, last Friday morning, dissipated into loud cheers and applause when the Governor announced the century-old volunteer firefighting unit would be receiving a $1 million grant.

Hochul, noting the funding was part of a new $25 million Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment (V-FIRE) grant program, lauded volunteers in the Greene County squad and statewide, saying, “our firefighters shouldn’t have to wait for upgrades and training.

“You need to have the resources to match the vital impact you have in your communities,” Huchul said, drawing more hurrahs when she added, “let’s do this every year,” wanting to make the dollars business as usual.

“To family members who have to have dinner alone and are waiting for their father or mother to come home, please know how grateful I am. I am so impressed and proud of all of you who stand up,” Hochul said.

Established by Senator Michelle Hinchey in the 2024 State Budget, V-FIRE supports volunteer fire departments statewide with grants for essential equipment and infrastructure upgrades to improve emergency response. 

Eighty-eight volunteer fire departments across the state of New York have been awarded funding through round one of the program. The full list of awardees can be found on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website.

“I championed the V-FIRE grant program to address a critical need—volunteer firehouses across New York State are struggling to afford the equipment and infrastructure upgrades they need to best serve our communities and protect themselves on the job,” Hinchey stated.

“These grants are more than a boost; they’re a lifeline, making many of these vital capital upgrades possible that would otherwise be out of reach. 

“I’m thrilled that the first round of funding is officially going out the door, and I’m committed to fighting for more next year to ensure this support reaches more firehouses statewide, especially here in the Hudson Valley,” Hinchey stated.

Greene County Emergency Services director John Farrell had a front row seat for the Governor’s announcement, joined by Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray, Assemblyman Chris Tague and Hinchey.

“What a great day,” Farrell stated. “Volunteer fire departments are the backbone of emergency response in many of our towns and rural areas, like Greene County.

“They are made up of individuals who dedicate their time and energy, often at great personal sacrifice,” Farrell stated. 

“The [V-Fire] grant is structured to support departments made up of 100 percent volunteers. It emphasizes our recognition of the unique challenges these teams face,” Farrell stated.

“By targeting volunteer departments specifically, we ensure the funding goes directly to those who need it most,” Farrell stated.

“This targeted support alleviates some of the financial burdens these departments often experience, allowing them to redirect their limited resources toward essential infrastructure and life-saving equipment,” Farrell stated.

Leeds Hose Company No. 1 fire chief Cliff VanKleeck was in attendance as were members from Leeds and numerous other agencies across the State.

VanKleeck posed with Governor Hochul and Senator Hinchey for the presentation of the ceremonial, over-sized $1 million check.

The fire chief had been as much in the dark as anyone about the precise details of the Governor’s trip to the small Greene County town. 

While preparations for the massive press conference at the Main Street firehouse were impossible to hide, and it was known some money was arriving, “none of us had any clue about the amount,” VanKleeck said. 

“We were only told on Tuesday [of this week] that something was coming,” VanKleeck said, explaining the department applied for the funding in April.

None of that mattered when the Governor revealed the number. “This is going to be absolutely phenomenal for the community,” VanKleeck said.

“This will bring everybody together. It is opening a whole new world for everyone in Leeds,” VanKleeck said. It is expected that safety and efficiency upgrades will be made to the fire station, built in 1974.

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LEGISLATURE STUFF - Excess or Never Too Much Extra

By Michael Ryan

CATSKILL - An expected floor fight did not materialize when the Greene County Legislature held a public hearing on the proposed 2025 county budget, this past Monday night.

Lawmakers formally presented a fiscal package showing a $5 million rise in overall spending but no increase in the individual taxpayer burden.

Legislative budget office Charles Martinez (District 2, Coxsackie) unveiled the plan, last month, gleefully noting the tax levy to the 14 towns was remaining flat for a sixth straight year.

While total appropriations have climbed from $131 million to $136 million, the use of fund balances and estimated revenues produced an Even Steven scenario for se mules of taxation.

County administrator Shaun Groden, giving a power point presentation on the budget, pointed out the usual suspects are responsible for the appropriations ascent.

Those traditional taxpayer pickpockets include Personal Services, various contracts and contributions to the retirement system, etc.

Plugging in Fund Balances and a bounty in Sales Tax revenue (which has come in approximately $10 million above estimates) has let government leaders not raise taxes while also creating debate.

Even as Martinez was unwrapping the budget, legislative Majority Leader Matthew Luvera (District 1, Catskill) suggested too much stockpiling was occurring.

“We have to [put a maximum] on these excess fund balances,” Luvera said. “Come up with some plan so we can give this back to the taxpayers.

“Maybe we could do something that is best for each community,” Luvera said. “I’m not saying to give anyone a blank check. I’m saying let’s be honest with the People that we have a ten million dollar surplus.”

Legislature chairman Patrick Linger questioned the wisdom of removing dollars from the piggy bank and took exception to Luvera apparently suggesting the legislature was not being transparent.

“We just passed, by resolution, all of these other Reserve Accounts. I’m not sure how we could be more honest than that, saying what we are establishing and exactly what it is for,” Linger said.

“I’m not sure there are ever excess funds. We can never guarantee sales tax. I would rather have this money in the bank than disperse it as a one time deal, then have to go back to taxpayers when the economy dips.

“We are in an enviable spot compared to many other counties,” Linger said, “but it has taken [fiscal] discipline to get where we are now.”

Linger was not alone in thinking the money should stay in reserve, ready to handle unexpected surprises that are sure to arise, so it was expected the debate would extend to the public hearing.

It did not, though two residents from Luvera’s home district did voice their opinions at the hearing, as did former legislator Larry Gardner.

Daniel Ward, a Catskill resident and village trustee, said, “I come before the board tonight to discuss the allocation for the excess sales tax revenue while hoping to also open the minds of the board to look into giving back a percentage to the towns and villages on an annual basis.”

Referencing Luvera’s stated perspective on the funds, Ward said, “legislator Luvera’s idea has now sparked my interest.

“As a village trustee, I know how tight budgets for the towns and villages are on a yearly basis. By supporting the towns and villages this way, you will positively impact the taxpayers of the county…helping prevent the towns and villages from raising taxes to offset the costs that have drastically gone up and are not sustainable,” Ward said.

Joe Izzo a Catskill resident and former legislator who regularly speaks at the budget hearings, opined there is more to the matter than a welcome plethora of sales tax inflow and what to do with it.

“You are anticipating issues that may arise which is fine, but when that fund balance is so high, take a hard look at this budget and make some changes, even if only minor changes,” Izzo said.

“How much money have you saved taxpayers since 2020?” Izzo said. “Who is losing here? The taxpayers. They aren’t saving a dime in these budgets. You are doing nothing to save taxes in those towns and villages.

“If there is that much fund balance (which includes millions of dollars also set aside in multiple Reserve Accounts for specific purposes such as equipment replacement, etc.) you are budgeting wrong,” Izzo said.

Groden, following the hearing, responded to Izzo’s comments, saying, “we don’t over-budget. We underspend. There is a very big difference.

“We don’t artificially inflate the budget,” Groden said. “When we have things like job vacancies that are open for two months and budgeted for twelve months, it results in unspent money” on salary, health care, etc.

“From a budget standpoint, you want surplus. And we should want it. What do you want, deficits?” Groden said, emphasizing the proverbial gorilla in the room is that sales tax is “totally out of the control of the county.

“We have a long history of putting fund balances back into the budget. We have seen consistent growth the past couple of years [in sales tax] but we often worry how long that increase can occur.” Groden said.

It is uncertain if redistribution talks will resume prior to the budget passage, slated for later this month. Luvera, asked if he would again bring up the subject, said, “I’ve made my statement. That’s what I’m sticking to.”

Gardner, who retired from the legislature three years ago after a nearly 40-year career, recommended, “cautious, slow thinking before you give up funds. You want them at the county level for use for the public good.

“I remember when the county took over solid waste management. It cost a fortune. The towns were not able to do it anymore.

“Many things have come along and will come along that can’t be addressed at the town level. I urge you not to give the funds up,” Gardner said.

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Windham Pathways: Connecting Generations” Holds Maiden Meeting

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - If the pumpkin pie is any indication, the “Windham Pathways: Connecting Generations” group will turn out better than good.

The newly-formed citizens organization held its maiden meeting, in mid-October, seeking to “forge relationships in order to build stronger community bonds.”

They gathered at the Senior Citizens Center, housed within the town of Windham’s ambulance headquarters, on the west end of South Street.

A printed agenda listed among the topics for discussion; “getting to know each other” and “building a ballfield for little league.”

The latter subject had been the center of controversy in Windham over the past several months, surrounding a potential plan put forth by the town council to create two little league baseball fields at the Windham Path.

Attendance at the twice-monthly council sessions was off the charts as members of the group “Preserve the Windham Path” offered intense resistance to the plan.

Fifty or more people were showing up for the meetings which are usually attended by only the five council members, the town clerk, the town engineer and perhaps a resident or two.

It seemed the issue might lead to a bitter legal fight as opponents of the project began soliciting funds for what they called “a high-powered attorney,” apparently aimed at challenging any progress.

Their stated goal was to have the fields put anywhere but the Windham Path, declaring their presence would negatively scar the very popular walking and biking trail.

The tensions abated suddenly when government officials announced, in early October, that the Windham Foundation was buying 34-acres of wooded lands near the hamlet of Hensonville.

As part of the acquisition, the Windham Foundation made it known that ownership of the land would ultimately be transferred to the town.

A portion of that property, 7 acres, could be used for the little league fields, nipping the controversy in the bud and causing Preserve the Windham Path members to claim victory.

It was also revealed that town supervisor Thomas Hoyt had been working behind the scenes with the Windham Foundation to purchase the tract, starting prior to the formation of Preserve the Windham Path.

Ground-breaking for the fields could commence next spring. Between then and now, questions are arising about what will happen to the remaining 27 acres, and how and by whom will those determinations will be made?

Connor Exum, a member of Preserve the Windham Path, is also a founding member of Windham Pathways: Connecting Generations.

Exum put together the kickoff meeting for Windham Pathways, following up with a written statement about the gathering which attracted roughly a baker’s dozen attendees.

“We, the members of the Preserve the Windham Path and Windham Pathways: Connecting Generations held a general public meeting on October 16th,” Exum stated.

“Our intent was for the entire community that has strived to develop an alternative plan for the Mountain Top Little League to meet with members of the Mountain Top Little League and the Knights of The Road to discuss the future of this project,” Exum stated.

The Knights of the Road have sponsored the little league for generations, staying outside the turmoil embroiling the ballfields.

Town officials noted the Mountaintop Little League is an independent body, and the town had no obligation to assist in the ballfields project, taking a role as a hopeful benefit to the community.

Exum, in his statement continued, “we had hoped that this meeting would help to create a bridge between all members of the community for the successful completion of this project. 

“It was disappointing that so few people from the community responded to us. However, we as a group are always open to developing new connections within the community to strengthen our social fabric.

“While this attempt might not have been as successful as we had hoped, it will not deter us from continuing to reach out to the community.

“We are leaving an open invitation to any member of the community to become part of our new initiatives to increase the use of the Windham Path to ensure the importance of this resource in our community,” Exum stated

Exum pointed out that invitations to the meeting were extended to Knights of the Road leaders and Supervisor Hoyt. They did not attend.

Refreshments were served at the meeting including pumpkin pie with crust reportedly homemade by Exum that in the view of one observer (partaker) was thick but at the same time well-textured and tasty. Not a bit crumbly.

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Political Newcomer Cathy Legg Challenges Incumbent Daryl Legg for Greene County District 7 Seat

GREENE COUNTY — In Greene County's District 7 race, political newcomer Cathy Legg, a Republican, is challenging incumbent Daryl Legg (no relation) for a seat representing the communities of Hunter, Lexington, and Halcott. The Greene County Legislature has a total of fourteen legislators, eleven of whom are Republicans. Daryl is one of two Democrats currently serving. There is also one Independent. As they campaign, both candidates emphasize their deep roots in Greene County and their vision for the mountaintop community.

Daryl, a lifelong Greene County resident, is well known for his years of public service and experience in local government. He is also a business owner, operating Legg’s Garage in Tannersville for about sixteen years. He served as Town of Hunter Councilman for six years, followed by Town Supervisor for ten years before being elected to the County Legislature. Daryl highlights his long standing relationships with local leaders and his bipartisan approach. "In three short years, I have developed the respect of County Leadership and other legislators so that we work together, across the aisle, to get things that we need on the mountaintop," he said.

A self-described fiscal conservative, Daryl's website asserts that he has never voted for or supported property tax increases. This stance has won him support from groups like the Hunter Seniors Association and Tannersville United Taxpayers. Daryl takes pride in his constituents' support and continued relationships with key figures. He has endorsements from notable groups and leaders, including NYS Senator Michelle Hinchey, Lexington Citizens for Conservative Government, and the Greene County Good Government Coalition..

Daryl's website, www.daryllegg.com, lists key achievements, including improving cell phone service on the mountaintop by securing cell towers in strategic locations like Kaaterskill Clove and the Hunter Town Hall. "I fight for my constituents, especially on the mountaintop," Daryl stated, underscoring his continued focus on issues like affordable housing, broadband expansion, and environmental preservation. "If you don't have places for your employees to live, they can't afford to bring their families into the community. Without the families, without the workers, you have no community," he said.

Recently, he worked to secure funding for a stone arch bridge upgrade on Platte Clove Road, a project soon to break ground. "A lot is going on," Daryl added, referring to ongoing projects like constructing a new visitor center and justice center in Catskill.

Cathy, a Republican and a lifelong local, is also a familiar face in Tannersville. Having operated her NAPA Auto Parts store for 35 years, Cathy believes her business has been "an economic cornerstone of the mountaintop community." She says her motivation to enter politics comes from a desire to step up for her neighbors, adding, "I want to make a difference. I've always been involved with numerous community organizations and want to step up and do more."

Her concerns focus on what she sees as a growing need for affordable housing and better access to essential services on the mountaintop. "We need [affordable] housing up here to go to residents and our workforce," Cathy said, pointing out that local businesses, schools, and public services struggle to find employees due to housing shortages. "We need teachers in our schools, and we can't even get them because they have nowhere to live," she added. Cathy argues that emergency services need more attention and funding, noting, "Our ambulances are covering for Catskill, and Catskill's covering Greenville, and Greenville is covering Cairo. We're always shorthanded."

Daryl voted and succeeded in adding a second Fly Car to the mountaintop. A non-transporting emergency medical vehicle, or "fly car," brings EMTs or paramedics directly to the scene of a medical incident. These vehicles support ambulance services by improving response times and reducing responder fatigue.

Cathy's campaign emphasizes mental health services, a cause close to her heart after losing her son Daniel in 2021. In his memory, she founded the Live Like Legg Foundation, which Cathy says has raised tens of thousands of dollars for mental health initiatives in Greene County.

Cathy expressed her frustration with limited mental health resources, saying, "Up until two months ago, you couldn't go to Greene County Mental Health without seeing in big red letters: 'We cannot take any more patients; please sign up for a waiting list.'" She believes the lack of mental health support in the area exacerbates challenges for police and emergency services. "What are you supposed to do if you have a crisis and need to talk to somebody?" she asked, adding that patients are often forced to see multiple therapists, which she says can disrupt healing.

Both candidates are committed to improving cell service, particularly in more remote parts of the district. Cathy recalls a recent incident on a Lanesville hiking trail where EMS personnel could not contact anyone due to a lack of cell service. "How can we not have cell phone service?" she asked, wanting more attention to these issues.

Daryl, who has served on multiple local boards over his nearly 20-year career, enjoys the "camaraderie" of working with fellow board members and stakeholders. He says, "We have always had a cohesiveness on every board I've been on. It's nice to know you make a difference in the community." His priorities are attracting businesses to the County and coordinating resources for vocational training to help young people establish careers locally.

Cathy also advocates for the needs of local seniors, especially those in isolated communities like Lexington. She describes the issue as dire, with many elderly residents living alone and struggling to access services. "They're just left alone," she stated, adding that there's also a shortage of volunteers for programs like Meals on Wheels. "Our elderly have been forgotten," Cathy said. The Mountain Top Library has begun a “Monday Meetups” program for folks to get together and socialize, but the problem, Cathy says, is transporting seniors from their homes to the Library. Cathy has been endorsed by NYS Assemblyman Chris Tague. Cathy said, "I am so grateful for the overwhelming support I have received from my community, and I am proud and honored to be endorsed by Assemblyman Tague."

The election has brought forward distinct visions for Greene County's future, with Cathy saying, "If we all work together as a community, we can all make a difference. It's not about politics. It's about my community and the people who live and visit here." 

With his history of local government service, Daryl affirms his dedication to the community's evolving needs: "I have the drive to do the work, and I fight for my constituents. I like helping people.”

As the race for District 7 intensifies, voters will choose between a seasoned incumbent and a committed community leader, each pledging to strengthen and support Greene County’s mountaintop community in their own way. Early voting has already commenced, with the final day to vote on November 5. Find your local polling place here: www.greenegovernment.com/departments/board-of-elections. 

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Preliminary Approval for Water Main

By D.M. Kamecke

CAIRO — South Cairo residents received good news recently when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced preliminary approval of adding another location to the proposed water main project at Country Estates Mobile Home Park. The additional work includes laying pipeline from Route 23B along the entirety of nearby Scotch Rock Road. The project was expanded after it was discovered that testing results for area wells were not consistent and it was likely that contamination was not being contained at the site of the former American Thermostat Factory.

According to County Administrator Shaun Groden, there are a “lot of inconsistencies” with test results varying over time indicating the “contamination is still spreading.” Groden says that there will need to be engineering studies for the additional Scotch Rock extension. However, that will not hold up the plans for the connection to the Estates.  The water main located along Route 23B from the Village of Catskill to the Estates’ property already exists. The project will involve installing a 350-foot connection from the road to the well house at the site at an estimated cost of $320,000. The Estates currently has a point of entry water treatment system (POET) installed by the EPA in the late 90s. Under the new plan, the 61 residences at Country Estates will be individually metered.

The entire project calls for a municipal agreement between the Town of Cairo, which is setting up a special water district and the Town of Catskill. The Village of Catskill, as owner of the water, is charged with applying to the EPA for the reimbursement. The County is paying for preliminary studies to send to the EPA Superfund administrators enabling them to reserve sufficient funds for the payout in 2025. According to Groden, early estimates put total project costs at $4.2 million, significantly higher than the Estates’ project alone.

The distance for the Scotch Rock water main is estimated at around 1.5 miles. That part of the project will also involve soil borings and getting the necessary right of ways in order to bring lines from the road to individual homes. Cairo Deputy Supervisor Debra Bogins reports that the town has delivered letters to the 21 homes on Scotch Rock Road notifying them of the project and getting consents for connection to the proposed water main and as well as for meter installation. About 50% of those homes have already responded.

The EPA held a public meeting in August regarding a new proposal to investigate possible residual contamination at the American Thermostat site, acknowledging that after 25 years of treatment groundwater contaminants remain elevated. The investigation was expected to take 3 – 5 years to complete. Residents and lawmakers made it clear they were not willing to wait. The push back resulted in a series of meetings between the EPA and the towns of Cairo and Catskill, Greene County, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and the NYS Department of Health. These meetings lead to the EPA agreeing to reimburse costs related to connecting the Catskill pipeline to the Estates’ site. 

At the heart of the matter is the former American Thermostat located on Route 23B in Catskill. In 1981, the Thermostat was discovered to be incorrectly disposing of toxic waste containing volatile organic compounds (VOC) including dumping it on the grounds and into sewer drains that discharged into a tributary of the Catskill Creek. Two years later it made the National Priorities List (NPL) of waste sites making it eligible for Federal Superfunds. It remains on that list.

Groden reports that work on the Country Estates part of the project will likely begin in April or May of 2025. Since it is a short run, that work is expected to move quickly. The larger part of project is expected to begin later in the year. A public meeting to update residents on progress is expected to be announced within the next several weeks.

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The Prattsville Scoop

By Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Thank you to our heroes, the veterans, for your service to our Country. We are able to say and do as we wish thanks to your service and sacrifices. We are in awe of you for your willingness to to risk your very life for our Democracy and we are grateful that you are here so we can extend our thanks to all of you. THANK YOU. And have a peaceful Veterans’ Day. Please try to attend the Veterans’ Day program at the Gilboa Conesville CS on Friday, November 8, 9 AM. The Students and Staff do a great job in saying “Thank You” to the veterans and to our local veterans in particular. The young students are a joy to watch as they set an example of extending their sentiments to our veterans.

November 5 – VOTE.

On Saturday night, turn your clock back one hour for the autumnal adjustment. Shorter days and longer nights are here until next spring. Lots more time for reading and indoor hobbies.

What a way to set off this week with the Breakfast/Brunch at the West Kill/Lexington Community Hall on Sunday the 27th. A number of attendees were some we had not seen in a while – Lorraine Banks, Peg Rapplyea, Barbara Rickrath with big brother Alfie Truesdell, Dan Davern, Joe Concato sans Jane, as well as meeting area newbies on Route 42 who are now residents in our area. Lorraine and Peg remember round and square dancing at the community hall in their younger years. Want to compliment the WKL Community Organization for their beautiful upgrades and TLC of the community hall, and for the members providing food and friendship for all to enjoy.

Barbara R. recounted her experience with “a” skunk this summer. Her skunk was just putting divots in her lawn looking for goodies to eat but got trapped and Barbara sent him to skunk heaven. She did mention that her one skunk was six shy of the GWH’s summer’s total. She was turned down for her offer to share and brother Alfie’s shout out greetings were appreciated and reciprocated. Absence does make the heart grow fonder.

Marianne and Johannes Krauss were home for the brunch – they have been on the go for a number of weekends after their return home from their Germany visit. They have been to various weekend automobile club road trips to visit a number of covered bridges and other interesting sites and for pure joy going to Norwich to watch their youngest grandson compete in marching band competition. And joining Lisa and Steve Birnbaum for food and fun and the mutual love of Porsches. Fellow automobile maven Glen Howard said a quick “hi” and “good-bye” as he rushed off to an automobile show in Kingston. Nothing like filling your Sunday with all good things – food and cars.

Missed seeing Nancy and Louie Kizyma at the brunch Sunday AM. They were downstate for a joyous occasion – the wedding of Nancy’s great niece. Congratulations to all the families. And Nancy has become our own Miss Marple, tracking down the following. The beetle like bugs, dark grey in color with an orange “W” on its back, go by the name of box elder bugs. You can thank Nancy for that information and perhaps we can give her more mysteries to solve. Perhaps where Legs Diamond hid his ill gotten gains in our mountaintop area. Thanks Nancy.

The Kaaterskill UMC Thrift Shop in Hunter opened their doors for three days of free shopping. You could take whatever you wanted by the bags full. Generous and appreciative bargain hunters made donations to the cause. Quilting books with the late Nettie Brink’s name on them were taken home to be used and appreciated because Nettie was well known for her sewing talents. There were so many they were gladly shared with others.

Remember to support the Annual Bake Sale for the cause of local veterans who can use help either for unexpected expenses or to help them over health expenditures. The assistance it extended to veterans in Prattsville’s neighboring towns. Please buy, bake or donate. Bake Sale is Saturday, November 9, 9 – 12 at Jim’s Great American Prattsville.

The Everything Shoppe in Conesville across from the Conesville Fire House, is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 AM – 3 PM. They are planning on a huge Christmas event at the shoppe in November and as soon as the exact information is given, will relay it to all. It is a great shop so suggest you pay them a visit now and plan on attending their November Christmas event.

Return to good health is sent to one time resident Fran Palermo Clarke. She has been struggling with a number of health issues and is finally on her way to complete recovery from her second knee replacement. Ever the constant supporter of veterans’ causes, Fran called to offer help with the American Legion Auxiliary’s fundraisers for our veterans – the Bake Sale and Basket of Cheer Raffle. Fran is a member of Unit 1327 based on her father’s service in the USA military. We honor her father Nick’s military service. Best to you Fran.

Special get well wishes are extended to Skeet Constable of West Kill. Skeet has many friends here in Prattsville and spent many hours at the bowling alley on Main Street (now Jim’s Great American) as well as other establishments in Prattsville. We also wish his wife Carol the best. Can never have too many good wishes sent your way.

Go Bills and they did with a resounding win on Sunday, taking down the Seahawks. Dottie Pickett and I watch and cheer for the Bills so now we have to convince columnists Lula Anderson and Chris Dwon to join in our Bills’ support for a grand slam. Repeat after us Lula and Chris, ‘GO BILLS.’

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Pam Carr and daughter on November 3. Also in the Carr family, we wish Pam’s granddaughter Cheyenne Robinson a very Happy Birthday on November 7. On November 8 it is Happy Birthay to Devon Gurley.

Please send news to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518-299-3219.

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