Local History - 1944 Election in the US and Schoharie County

By Wildert Marte

Below continues our look into local history through the pages of the Cobleskill Index by our student intern Wildert Marte. Send any ideas our way at mountaineaglenews@gmail.com.

SCHOHARIE COUNTY — The 1944 presidential election was one of the most critical in American history taking place in the middle of World War II. With millions of American troops still fighting overseas voters had to decide whether to keep Franklin D. Roosevelt in office for an unprecedented fourth term or elect Republican challenger Thomas E. Dewey the governor of New York. Roosevelt who had already led the country through the Great Depression and most of the war campaigned on stability and the promise of victory. Dewey argued that after more than a decade in power Roosevelt and his administration had become inefficient and that new leadership was needed to move the country forward​.

Roosevelt’s campaign emphasized his experience in handling both the war and the economy. His leadership had guided the country through some of its darkest times and many Americans trusted him to finish the job. Dewey on the other hand struggled to convince voters that a change in leadership would be beneficial during such a critical period. While he criticized Roosevelt’s handling of domestic affairs he lacked a strong foreign policy which was a key issue for voters. In the end Roosevelt secured a decisive victory winning 432 electoral votes to Dewey’s 99 and winning the popular vote by over three million votes. In New York a major battleground state Roosevelt’s support in urban areas especially New York City helped him maintain a stronghold despite Dewey’s appeal in upstate counties​.

Schoharie County mirrored national trends but with its own local political battles. While Dewey managed to win the county his margin of victory was significantly smaller than previous Republican candidates had achieved. This shift showed that Roosevelt’s leadership during the war resonated with many voters even in traditionally conservative areas​. One of the most closely watched races in the county was the contest for New York State Supreme Court. Middleburgh’s own F. Walter Bliss, a Democrat, sought re-election but faced a tough challenge from Republican Edward S. Van Voorhis of Ulster County. Despite strong local support Bliss ultimately lost as votes from other parts of the judicial district favored Van Voorhis​. Other local races were just as competitive. Grover C. Guernsey and Madison J. Hilts ran for State Senate and Assembly respectively gaining strong backing in Democratic-leaning areas but struggling to overcome the Republican majority. The district attorney race was another major focus with David B. Alford of Middleburgh running a well-organized campaign​. Voter turnout in Schoharie County was particularly high showing how engaged people were in both national and local elections. Cobleskill alone saw nearly 2,200 residents cast ballots making it one of the highest turnouts in the county’s history. This demonstrated that even in rural communities voters were actively shaping their government at all levels​.

The 1944 election reinforced the strength of American democracy even in the face of global conflict. Roosevelt’s victory ensured continuity in leadership during the final stages of World War II while local elections across New York determined policies that would shape communities for years to come. Schoharie County’s results reflected the balance between national concerns and local priorities showing that every vote mattered whether it was for the presidency or a seat in the state legislature. As the war neared its end the leaders elected in 1944 would be responsible for guiding the country into the post-war era. The decisions made in this election influenced everything from foreign policy to economic recovery. Schoharie County like the rest of the country, played its part in shaping history proving that even small-town elections can have a lasting impact.

 

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Margaretville Hospital to Hold Fifth Annual Art Auction - First Art Preview Saturday April 5

MARGARETVILLE  –– Margaretville Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) will hold its fifth annual CATCH (Community Art to Community Health) auction on Saturday, May 17th, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the MTC Community Room (61 Academy Street, Margaretville, N.Y.). The event will include live music, light fare, and both live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the event will support primary care at Margaretville Hospital. 

The public will have several opportunities to preview the artwork.

The first opportunity is Saturday, April 5, from 1 PM-5 PM at the Andes Hotel (110 Main St, Andes, N.Y). Admission to the preview is free, and light refreshments will be provided.  A second preview will be held during the weekend of April 26th-27th, at the Galli-Curci Theatre (801 Main Street, Margaretville, NY). Both previews will feature approximately 15-20 pieces of art.

Throughout the spring, smaller pieces of art will be on display at the Shandaken Inn (1 Golf Course Road, Shandaken, N.Y.) and Union Grove Distillery (43311 NY-28, Arkville, N.Y.).

The full collection of art work can be viewed online in advance of the auction at WMCHealth.org/CATCH. We are still receiving donations from generous artists and art collectors – check the website often to see the featured artists and their work. Many of them live and create artwork here in our local area

During the CATCH art auction event, a selection of pieces will be offered through a silent auction, which will also be open for online bidding up to and during the event.

For the live auction, bidders can attend the event and bid in person or submit a proxy bid (Email Cindy.VanderPlaat@WMCHealth.org or call 845.544.3628 to submit a proxy bid). Proxy bidders will be assigned a representative who will bid up to the designated maximum amount.

Tickets to the CATCH auction are available at WMCHealth.org/CATCH. Each ticket is $30, which includes food and drinks. Space is limited; advance registration is strongly recommended.

Sponsors of the CATCH auction include local businesses Margaretville Telephone Company, Andes Hotel, Union Grove Distillery, and Shandaken Inn.

Businesses or individual interested in becoming an event sponsor and advertising in the auction catalog can contact Cindy Vander Plaat at Cindy.VanderPlaat@wmchealth.org or 845.544.3628 for more information.

 

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Schoharie County Arts Presents EDGE + OVERLAP: A Solo Exhibition by Kristen DeFontes - Hosted at the SEEC Gallery

SCHOHARIE – Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) in partnership with Schoharie County Arts is excited to welcome another talented local artist to 287 Main gallery and coworking hub. Celebrate the captivating work of Kristen DeFontes at a special gallery reception on Friday, March 14th, from 6-8 PM at 287 Main Street, Schoharie. Her exhibit, EDGE + OVERLAP, showcases a dynamic collection featuring printmaking, collage, cast bronze, and found object assemblage—offering a rich exploration of materials, process, and composition.

A visual artist based in Schoharie County, DeFontes earned her BFA from the State University of New York at Purchase College, where she specialized in printmaking and sculpture. While at Purchase, she worked in exhibitions at the Neuberger Museum of Art, where exposure to New York School artists had a lasting impact on her artistic development. DeFontes later pursued a Master of Arts (MA) degree at CUNY Brooklyn College, studying under the esteemed Elizabeth Murray, whose mentorship encouraged DeFontes to embrace exploration and break creative boundaries.

“I am excited to be showing ten years of my work, including over fifty new pieces at 287 Main SEEC Gallery in collaboration with Schoharie County Arts. I am very grateful to be a part of such a supportive arts community,” shared Kristen. 

DeFontes’ work is deeply influenced by her surroundings in rural farm country, where natural and industrial materials—such as rocks, metal, wood, and nails—find their way into her art. Her process reflects a personal journey of navigating emotions, seeking balance, and translating physical and psychological landscapes into abstraction.

"We're excited to welcome Kristen DeFontes to 287 Main and to collaborate with Schoharie County Arts to showcase local talent,” said Trish Bergan, SEEC Program Administrator. “Art transforms the building, bringing energy to our coworking space, making it a more vibrant and inspiring place to work and gather.”  

Reception attendees will meet Kristen in person, explore her artwork, and
enjoy a lively evening with art enthusiasts, food, and drinks. The exhibit will remain on display until summer 2025, and visitors are welcome to stop by the SEEC gallery at 287 Main Street, Monday–Friday from 9 AM to 4:00 PM. 

For more information about 287 Main, coworking, event and room rental opportunities, or to learn how to feature your work in the 287 Main Gallery, please contact SEEC Program Administrator, Trish Bergan at admin@seecny.org or visit www.seecny.org/287-main

###

About 287 Main, the home office of SEEC, integrates coworking spaces, office and special event rental, pop-up retail opportunities and a local art gallery, all while providing business resources to the community. This multifaceted venue not only fosters economic growth in Schoharie County but also serves as a cultural hub for art enthusiasts and local talent.

About Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC): Established by the private sector, Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation, also known as “SEEC,” is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening Schoharie County through economic growth. SEEC acts as a liaison among local municipalities and institutional leaders, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing local business capabilities. Guided by social, environmental, and financial principles, SEEC aims to accelerate community growth and sustainability through collaboration and a thriving business ecosystem.
 

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Delaware Academy Presents “The Wizard of Oz” This Weekend

DELHI – Delaware Academy Central School District at Delhi will present “The Wizard of Oz” this weekend at the high school auditorium. The student musical is a modern take on the classic show, and includes many familiar tunes, including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Follow The Yellow Brick Road.” Regular performances are Friday, March 7 and Saturday March 8 at 7:00 pm, with a matinee at 2:00 pm on Sunday, March 9. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under.

 

Dorothy, played by Briannah Pringle, oils the knees of the Tinman (Eveline Ainsworth) as the Scarecrow (Keiran Synan) looks on.

 

The Tinman (Eveline Ainsworth) sings about wanting a heart, watched by Dorothy (Briannah Pringle), “Trees” Jaslene Villalva and Paisley Smith, and the Scarecrow (Keiran Synan).

 

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Handcrafted Broom with Poliana Danila

Saturday, April 5, 2025 11a–3p at the Headwaters Arts Center, 66 Main Street., Stamford NY

Learn to make handcrafted brooms with Poliana Danila on April 5, 2025, 11a–3p at Headwaters Art Center, located at 66 Main Street in Stamford, NY.  A traditional symbol of good luck, it is said that brooms can sweep away bad fortune. Whether you use it in a sacred space, as an art piece or as an effective sweeper, a broom crafted by your own hands is a beautiful and functional one-of-a-kind object. Registration is now open for the Handcrafted Broom workshop and the pricing options, $30/$60/$80, reflect the Roxbury Arts Group commitment to tiered equity pricing. To learn more about what tiered equity pricing is and how to select the pricing tier that reflects your financial reality, please visit our website roxburyartsgroup.org. 

In this workshop participants will make a 16 inch broom using an ancient technique and traditional materials. All materials and tools will be provided and at the end of the class participants will leave with a beautiful, handcrafted broom. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

Poliana Danila is an educator, fiber artist and broom maker who loves working with whatever the plants give/gift us. Originally from Romania, Poliana watched her parents and grandparents working in the gardens, teaching in school and spinning and weaving with the wool from their sheep. She has bachelor's and master's degrees in landscape design and horticulture, and has had the privilege of expanding her knowledge of weaving, knotting, plant dyeing and broom making with well-known artists and makers at fiber studios such as Textile Art Center in Brooklyn/Manhattan, Fiber Craft Studio in Spring Valley and upstate NY. 

This event is sponsored by Margaretville Telephone Company. All programs offered by the Roxbury Arts Group are supported by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the NYS Legislature, the A. Lindsay and Olive B. O’Connor Foundation, the Robinson Broadhurst Foundation, The Community Foundation for South Central New York, the Tianaderrah Foundation, The Delaware National Bank of Delhi, and individual supporters.

For more information about this broom making workshop with Poliana Danila on April 5, 2025, 11a–3p at Headwaters Art Center and all programs offered by the Roxbury Arts Group, please visit roxburyartsgroup.org or call 607.214.6040.

 

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Legal Advertising - Week of March 7, 2025

LLC Notice
NOTICE OF FORMATION of Tom Noddy Holdings, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with New York Sec'y of State (SSNY) on 12/31/24. Office location: Schoharie County. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: Katherine Miller, Owner 5907 State Route 145 Sharon Springs NY 13459. Purpose: any lawful activity.
LLC Notice
The name of the LLC is COMPOUND 2024, LLC.    The Articles of Organization were filed on 09/26/2024. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.  The office of the LLC is to be located in Greene County.  The Secretary of State is the designated agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served.  The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process is 8 Pipe Court, Unit 2134, Athens, NY  12015.
LLC Notice
Notice of Formation of THE WANDERING MYSTIK LLC, filed with SSNY on Jan. 19, 2025. Office: Schoharie County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to Kristina Traver, 41 Church Rd., Middleburgh NY 12122. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.  
LLC Notice
Notice of Formation of SNOWSHOEWING LLC, filed with SSNY on 02/13/2025. Office: SCHOHARIE County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to LLC:  418 Broadway, Suite R, Albany, NY 12207.  Purpose: any lawful act or activity.  
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) Name: TALLY HO RICHFIELD SPRINGS LLC, The Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/24. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a copy of process to JASON PELTON 907 STATE ROUTE 145, MIDDLEBURGH, NY, 12122, USA Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AUTHORITY OF FOREIGN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY UNDER NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY LAW (“LLCL”)
1.  The name of the foreign limited liability company is Nick N Dom Auto Sales, LLC (the “LLC”). The character or purpose of the business of the LLC is any purpose allowed by law.
2.  The date of filing of the application for authority with the Secretary of State is September 13, 2024.
3.  The jurisdiction of organization of the LLC is the State of Pennsylvania and the date of its organization is November 20, 2018. The principal office of the LLC is: 711 Rohrerstown Road, Lancaster, PA 17603.
4. The County within the State of New York in which the office of the LLC is to be located is Delaware County.
5.  The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him or her is: 1 Howell Street, Walton, NY 13856.
6. The name and address of the authorized officer in its jurisdiction of organization where a copy of its certificate of organization is filed is: SECRETARY OF STATE, 401 North Street, Rm 302 Harrisburg, PA 17120.
LLC Notice
THE WIGGLE FARM LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 04/01/2024 Schoharie Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to THE WIGGLE FARM LLC 660 ECKER HOLLOW RD, SCHOHARIE, NY, 12157, USA General Purpose
LLC Notice
Notice of LLC Formation of Backwoods Builders & Remodeling LLC, a NY limited liability company (LLC). Arts. of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (NYSS) on 02/11/2025. Office: Schoharie County. NYSS designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. NYSS shall mail process to:  Backwoods Builders & Remodeling, LLC P.O. Box 09 Sloansville, NY 12160. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
LLC Notice
MEYER CABINS LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 10/01/2024 DELAWARE Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to ROBERT J MEYER LLC 1494 STOCKBRIDGE ST, LOXAHATCHEE, FL, 33470, USA General P
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) Name: TALLY HO RICHFIELD SPRINGS LLC, The Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/24. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 367 Dugan Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
LLC Notice
CONSCIOUS CONTROL CREATIONS LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 11/7/2024 Schoharie Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE ST, STE 112 ALBANY, NY, 12207, USA General Purpose
LLC Notice
Articles of Organization of SMS ONEONTA HOLDINGS, LLC (“LLC”) filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on December 17, 2024, effective on the date of filing.  Office Location: Delaware County.  SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 4694 Gun House Hill Road, South Kortright, New York 13842, which shall be the principal business location.  The purpose for which the LLC is formed is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the NYS Limited Liability Company Law.
LLC Notice
Notice of Formation of PDU HERO, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/02/2025. Office location: Greene County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to PDU HERO, LLC: PO BOX 3, SOUTH CAIRO, NY, 12482. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
LLC Notice
ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF COPPER RIDGE ESTATES LLC Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company (LLC) Law on 01/27/2025. FIRST: The name of the LLC is Copper Ridge Estates LLC. SECOND: To engage in any lawful act or activity within the purposes for which LLC may be organized pursuant to LLC Law provided that the LLC is not formed to engage in any act or activity requiring the consent or approval of any state official, department, board, agency, or other body without such consent or approval first being obtained. THIRD: The county, within this state, in which the office of the LLC is to be located is Greene. FOURTH: The Secretary of State (SSS) is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served. The post office address to which the SSS shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon the SSS by personal delivery is: Hudson Canyon Advisors LLC, PO Box 403, Hensonville, NY 12439. FIFTH: The LLC is to be managed by: a class or classes of managers. SIXTH: The LLC shall have a perpetual existence
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF FORMATION of LAMBRECHT ESTATES LLC. Art. of Org. filed with NewYork Secretary of State (SSNY) on 11/07/2024. Office location: DELAWARE County. SSNY desig. As agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: PO BOX 193, FRANKLIN, NY, UNITED STATES, 13775. Purpose: any lawful activity..
LLC Notice
LLC name : SCHOVENTURES LLC
Date of formation : 1/30/2025
County of the principal business address: Schoharie County
Business address: 156 Fort Road Schoharie, NY, 12157
Registered agent information: Cody Robinson-Bullock, 156 fort road Schoharie, NY 12157
Business activity description: outdoor guide services
Address for service of process: 156 FORT ROAD, SCHOHARIE, NY, 12157, USA
Name and address of the New York agent: Cody Robinson-Bullock 156 Fort Road, Schoharie, NY 12157
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Dependable Electric and Home Solutions LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/23/2024. Office location: Schoharie County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC, 184 Dead End RD, Jefferson, NY 12093. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
LLC Notice
Notice of formation of LPM Property Holdings, LLC. Articles of organization filed with New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on 07/09/2024. Office location: Delaware County.
SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served.  SSNY shall mail copy of process to 159 Main St.  Delhi, N.Y. 13753. Purpose: any lawful activity.
LLC Notice
Notice of formation of Highdell Laundry  Group, LLC , Articles of Organization filed with
New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on 9/20/2024. Office location:  Delaware County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to:  159 Main St. Delhi  N.Y.  13753. Purpose: any lawful activity.
LLC Notice
Muddy Pawz Boarding LLC Articles of Organization filed with New York Secretary of State (SSNY) 10/18/24. Office in Delaware County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 25101 State Highway 23 Harpersfield NY 13786. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Public Notice - Halcott Caucus
The Town Of Halcott Republican Committee will hold a caucus on Monday March 10, 2025 at 7:00PM at the Halcott Grange Hall, 264 County Route 3, Halcott Center, NY  12430 for the purpose of nominating candidates for the General Election to be held Tuesday November 4th, 2025 and for any other business that may properly come before this meeting.
LLC Notice
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Notice of Formation of Decker Funeral Home LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/27/2025. Office location: Greene County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Scott M Zielonko : PO Box 873 Windham, NY 12496. Purpose: Any lawful purpose
LLC Notice
Notice of Formation of FindYourDestinoLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/29/2025. Office location: Delaware County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Wilfredo Perdomo: PO Box 172 Denver NY 12421. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Public Notice - Halcott Caucus
The Town of Halcott Democratic Committee will hold a caucus on Monday, March 10, 2025 at 7:00pm at the Halcott Grange Hall, 264 County Route 3, Halcott Center, NY 12430 for the purpose of nominating candidates for the General Election to be held Tuesday, November 4, 2025 and for any other business that may properly come before this meeting.
Public Notice - Bids Wanted
Mushkoday Farm LLC, County Highway 16, (Fraser/Treadwell Road) Delhi NY, is seeking bids for Manure Storage/Heavy Use Area Covered-Concrete and Spring Development to be funded by the Watershed Agricultural Council.   Prospective bidders will receive a bid package which contains a bid sheet with instructions to bidders, sample contract, plans and specifications.  Bid packages may be obtained by contacting Elaine Poulin at the Watershed Program Office, 44 West Street, Walton, NY 13856 or by calling 607-865-7090 ext. 209.  Prospective bidders must be in attendance for the full group site showing at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at the Mushkoday farmstead (County Highway 16, Fraser/Treadwell Road).  Failure to attend will result in the rejection of your bid.  Sealed bids must be clearly marked “Mushkoday Sealed Bid” and will be accepted on behalf of the landowner at the Watershed Agricultural Program Office at 44 West Street, Walton, NY until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 2, 2025 where they will be opened and read.  Small and minority owned businesses are encouraged to apply.  The Watershed Agricultural Council, Inc. reserves the right to reject any and all bids.  E.O.E.
Public Notice - Jefferson CSD
The Jefferson Central School  seeks sealed bids for School  Bus Maintenance for the  2025-2026 and 2026-2027
school years. Bids must be  submitted to Dulcie Fowler,  District Clerk, no later than Noon on Friday, March 14,  2025, in a sealed envelope  marked “School Bus  Maintenance Proposal”. Bids  will be reviewed by the Board  of Education at their regularly  scheduled meeting on  Tuesday, March 18, 2025.  Interested contractors should pick up a copy of the bid  specifications in the District
Office or request a copy by  calling 607-652-7821.
Public Notice - Bids Wanted
A Sealed bid for Elevating 4 Buildings (BID NO.: Bid-01) will be received at the following address:       
Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC)
669 County Highway 38, Suite 1
Arkville, NY 12406
until 2:00 PM local time on Thursday, March 20, 2025, and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud. CWC will hold a mandatory pre-bid meeting 10:00 AM local time on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at Prattsville Town Hall (14517 Main Street in Prattsville, NY).
The Project generally consists of the following work at four separate buildings:  
14517 Main Street, Prattsville, NY (Prattsville Town Hall)
14428 Main Street, Prattsville, NY (McDonagh Residence)
14706 Main Street, Prattsville, NY (Murnan Residence)
7925 Main Street, Hunter, NY (Fitzpatrick-Papa Building)
The proposed work for each building includes: asbestos abatement or decontamination (as needed); removal of shrubs, sidewalks, pavement or pads immediately adjacent to building perimeter (as needed); trenching around the building perimeter (as needed); installation of rigging beams prior to lift, mechanically lifting the entire 1st (and upper) floors by several feet (per plans); demolishing the existing concrete or masonry foundation; constructing a new concrete foundation  with engineered vents; backfilling the basement interior to adjacent ground; lowering the building onto the new foundation (as needed); attaching the structure to the new foundation; backfilling trenches around perimeter around building; installing new mechanical room (if shown on plans); installing new stairs and stair landings (per plans); installing new ADA-approved wooden ramp or platform lift (if shown on plans); installation of new sidewalks (if shown on plans); finished grading and plantings around building perimeter.  If applicable, the proposed mechanical room is to contain electrical panels, hot water tanks, furnaces, boilers and other mechanicals relocated from the former basement. Miscellaneous plumbing work and electrical work are also proposed to support utility relocations and reconnections, and to extend the building sewer and water service lines starting from 5 feet outside the building to inside of the building.  
This work will be awarded as multiple prime contracts.  The Bid will be received on a lump sum basis with alternates, if included on the Bid Form.  Participation goals and use of minority and women-owned business enterprises and service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises is strongly encouraged but not required.  Participation goals are 15% for minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs), 15% for women-owned business enterprises (WBEs) and 6% for service-disabled veteran-owned business enterprises (SDVBE).
Work shall be substantially completed by Dec 1, 2025. Final restoration shall be completed and the project ready for final payment by Feb 1, 2026.
The Bid should not include sales and compensating use taxes on materials incorporated into the work.
If the Bid is actually received by mail or by hand after the appointed time on the date specified it shall be rejected, notwithstanding that such Bid may have been placed in a mailbox or other mail receptacle regularly maintained by the United States Postal Service before such time, and ordinarily in sufficient time to have been delivered on time.  Bid security in the amount of 5% of the Bid must accompany the Bid in accordance with the Instruction to Bidders.  The successful Bidder will be required to furnish a performance bond and a payment bond, each in an amount equal to 100% of the contract price. Bidders will also be required to furnish a Non-Collusive Affidavit.
Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the following locations:  
Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC HQ)
669 County Highway Route 38, Arkville, NY 12406
John Mathiesen
(845) 586-1400
jmathiesen@cwconline.org

The bidding and contract documents for this Project will be available electronically at: https://chazen.sharefile.com/d-s682c2b5b18144e9c8fd92872e6ee92ec.  A hardcopy of the contract documents will be available for viewing at CWC HQ.  
Note that only bidders who register with LaBella Associates will receive notification of Addenda.
This project is publicly funded. The Bidders must comply with New York State Department of Labor Prevailing Wage Rate Schedule and conditions of employment and Federal Davis-Bacon Wage Rate Schedule.  
Attention of Bidders is particularly called to the requirements for ensuring that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
Catskill Watershed Corporation, as Owner, reserves the right to waive any informalities or irregularities in the Bid received, or to reject any Bid without explanation.
Public Notice - Schoharie
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors at a meeting held on February 21, 2025, duly adopted on said date Local Law #2-2025 titled: Amending Local Law No. 5 of 2023 relating to providing Real Property tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers in accordance with sections 466-a and 466-1 of the Real Property Tax Law, subject to a permissive referendum.
LOCAL LAW NO. 5. of 2023 is hereby amended in part as follows:
SECTION V: ELIGIBILITY: Subsection A is hereby amended and shall hereinafter read as follows:
“A.  The applicant resides in the County of Schoharie and I a member of an incorporated volunteer fire company or fire department or incorporated volunteer ambulance service which provides service within the city, village, town or school district or who provides service to a neighboring city, village, town, county or school district.”
This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon its filing with the Secretary of State.
Public Notice - Halcott
Notice is hereby given that assessment inventory and valuation data is available for examination and review. This data is the information that will be used to establish the assessment of each parcel that will appear on the Tentative Assessment Roll of the Town of Halcott that will be filed on or before May 1st, 2025. The information may be reviewed, by appointment, in the Assessor’s Office at 264 County Route 3,  Halcott NY; an appointment to review the assessment information may be made by telephoning the assessor at (518) 772-0889. Dated 4th of March, 2025.   Garth Slocum, Assessor
Public Notice - Lexington
Notice is hereby given that assessment inventory and valuation data is available for examination and review. This data is the information that will be used to establish the assessment of each parcel that will appear on the Tentative Assessment Roll of the Town of Lexington that will be filed on or before May 1st, 2025. The information may be reviewed, by appointment, in the Assessor’s Office at 3542 State Route 42, Lexington NY; an appointment to review the assessment information may be made by telephoning the assessor at (518) 989-6476. Dated 4th of March, 2025.   Garth Slocum, Assessor
Public Notice - Proposals Wanted
The Town of Wright, of Schoharie County, NY has completed the Annual Financial Report for 2024.  This document is on file with the Town of Wright Clerk and is available for public inspection or review during Town Clerk business hours.
Public Notice - Wright
The Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC) is seeking proposals from portable toilet vendors for bids to lease and maintain toilets at fifteen locations in Delaware, Greene, Schoharie and Sullivan Counties adjacent to four reservoirs from May 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025.  Bids must be received by CWC by 3pm on March 27, 2025.  For bid documents, please contact Barbara Puglisi or Timothy Cox at 845-586-1400.  EOE
Public Notice - Gilboa-Conesville CSD
Gilboa-Conesville Central School is seeking requests for NON-HAZARDOUS WASTE SERVICES for the 2025-2026 school year.  Proposals are due by March 18, 2025 at 2 p.m. in the Superintendent’s office.  The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposal.  Contact the school to request a proposal at 607-588-7541.
Public Notice - Prattsville
Notice is hereby given that assessment inventory and valuation data is available for
examination and review.  This data is the information which will be used to establish the
assessment of each parcel which will appear on the Tentative Assessment Roll of the Town of Prattsville, which will be filed on or before May 1st, 2025. The information may be reviewed, by appointment only, in the Assessor’s Office at 14517 Main St, Prattsville, NY, on Thursday March 6th and Thursday March 13th between the hours of 1:30 and 4pm.  An appointment to review the assessment information may be made by telephoning the assessor at 518-299-3125.
Public Notice - Halcott
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing to adopt both the amended Town of Halcott Comprehensive Plan and Town of Halcott Land Use Code will be held on March 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Town of Halcott Grange Hall, Halcott Center, N.Y.  Regular Town Board meeting to follow.
Public Notice - Hunter
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN; the Town Board of the Town of Hunter will accept sealed bids for the rental of a 25-ton excavator with hydraulic thumb with Operator. Bids in sealed envelopes labeled “Rental of Excavator with Operator” must be submitted to the Town Clerk at the Hunter Town Hall, 5748 Rte. 23A, Tannersville, NY by 3:00 PM on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The bids will be publicly opened and read at a meeting on that same date at 6:00 PM. Bids must include hourly and/or daily rates (based on 8–10-hour workday) and will be effective from 3/26/25-12/31/25. Bids must be accompanied by a non-collusion certificate in accordance with Section 103-d of the GML and must include proof of insurance. The Town Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Public Notice - Bovina
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Bovina Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing, pursuant to Section 276 of the Town Law on the application of: Deanna Karpe, for approval of a Special Use Permit for Restaurant located on County Highway 6.  
SAID HEARING will be held Monday, March 17, 2025 at 6:00 pm at the Community Hall, Main Street, at which time all interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard.
 PUBLIC REVIEW of said Special Use Permit Application will be available from Monday, March 10, 2025 to Friday, March 14, 2025 by appointment only.  The Planning Board Clerk can be reached by calling 607-832-4539.
Public Notice - Supplemental Summons
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF SCHOHARIE – CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC, Plaintiff, -against- DONALD P. MOREY, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; TODD MOREY, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; ASHLEY PERRY AKA ASHLEY N. PERRY AKA ASHLEY N. MOREY , AS HEIR DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER MOREY AND AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; CHAD MOREY, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY MOREY AND AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; BRANDON MOREY, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY MOREY AND AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; ANY AND ALL KNOWN AND UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF DONALD MOREY; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPEMENT; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, Defendants - Index No. 2024-252 Plaintiff Designates Schoharie County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Schoharie County. To the above named Defendants–YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated December 26, 2024. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME – If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Thomas Marcelle, J.S.C. Dated: December 26, 2024 Filed: December 27, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 246 Shady Tree Lane, Howes Cave, NY 12092 Dated: February 3, 2025 Filed: February 4, 2025 Greenspoon Marder LLP., Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Monica G. Christie, Esq., 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105 P: (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 (No Service by fax) Please respond to Cypress Creek Office: Trade Centre South, 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982
Public Notice - Roxbury CSD
THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE ROXBURY CENTRAL SCHOOL WILL HOLD PUBLIC BUDGET MEETINGS ON MARCH 12, 26 & APRIL 9 AT 7PM IN THE CHORAL MUSIC ROOM.

 

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MAIN STREET COMMUNITY CENTER - Amy Silberkleit: Lithographs With a Local Look

If you think you have seen “Durham Road” (offered in lithograph form by Amy Silberkleit), it’s highly likely you have, not far from where the artist lives, in the rural hamlet of Conesville, out betwixt Schoharie and Greene counties. “I get a certain feeling when I walk on this road and see the three sugar maples that anchor the house,” Silberkleit says. “I can’t help but get a sense of the farm that used to be. It seems like it is always windy there, at the crest of a hill, but I am drawn to this place by the quiet too.”

Main Street Community Center in Windham, partnering with the Windham Arts Alliance, is hosting “Pressing Matters,” a solo show featuring the traditional lithography of Amy Silberkleit such as “Crop,” inspired by a cornfield along the Rail Trail between the towns of Bloomville and Roxbury. The exhibit runs until April 1 including a meet-and-greet reception on March 22 with live music and refreshments (3 to 6 p.m.) and a free print-making demonstration on March 29 (4 p.m.).

One leaf clings to its life-giving branch as another is “Letting Go” in a lithograph on transparent paper fused it to a monotype of the plant, Equisetum. “I love drawing the forms that leaves take when they wither in the Fall,” Silberkleit says. Two of her works are part of the Albany Institute’s permanent collection. 

“Sunflower” became “more interesting to draw once the petals fell and the seeds ripened,” says Silberkleit, a Windham Arts Alliance member and onetime artistic director of The Rod and the Rose Puppet Theatre, receiving her Certificate in Natural Science Art and Illustration from The New York Botanical Gardens.

 

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True West by Sam Shepard at MATH

HUNTER — True West by Sam Shepard directed by Jacob Shipley.

Two brothers duke it out in this classic play about sibling rivalry and creativity run amok.

At the end of March MATH is partnering with Fellow and Scribners to bring Sam Shepard's classic play True West to an in-the-round experience at the Apex Lounge. Included in the evening will be a cocktail hour with appetizers and specialty cocktails (including n/a), desserts and coffee at intermission, and a cash bar open throughout the play. 

Tickets are $65, and very limited, so visit www.catskillmtn.org for more information and ticket links! The show will be Mar. 28 and 29 at the Apex Lounge at Scribner's Catskill Lodge at Hunter.

 

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade is March 16

Originally Published in Porcupine Soup

EAST DURHAM―The East Durham St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee is gearing up to once again paint the town green when the second annual parade marches down State Route 145 on Sunday, March 16.

Last year was the first time in 30 years that the Emerald Isle of the Catskills hosted a St. Patrick’s Day parade and thousands of people came out to celebrate as festive floats, color guards, marching bands, pipes and drums, firetrucks, and more made their way through the hamlet.​

“Last year’s parade was hugely successful and we are planning on topping it this year,” organizers say.

The committee has been hard at work for months preparing and on February 22 they hosted the Passing of the Sash Dinner Dance at the Shamrock House. Colleen McGrath Fenlon and Dermot Fenlon, owners of McGrath’s Edgewood Falls, were officially named grand marshals. 

Founded 51 years ago by Colleen’s parents, Kathleen and Mattie McGrath, the family-run resort has been a cornerstone of the East Durham community and local Irish culture.

Fr. Henry Reid will be aide to the grand marshals. Mike Hurson will once again serve as master of ceremonies. ​

Some 180 people attended the dinner, including Assemblyman Chris Tague who presented volunteer Natasha Voisey with a commendation from the Greene County Legislature for her “time and efforts in various capacities for the betterment of the community.” Voisey was also given a special Above and Beyond award from the East Durham St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee.

“It was Natsha's birthday and everyone enthusiastically sang ‘Happy Birthday,’” said Wesslock.

 

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Filmed Locally - A Complete Unknown

By Bradley Towle

PHOENICIA — A Complete Unknown is the long-awaited Bob Dylan biopic starring Timothy Chalamet as the young songwriter in the early 1960s. With its detailed production and stand-out performances, the film received numerous nominations and awards, including seven Academy Award nominations. Among the film's Oscar nominations was Ed Norton for his nuanced portrayal of Pete Seeger, a figure who loomed large in upstate New York during his long life of activism and music. Aside from charting Bob Dylan's early days as a folk singer to his notorious decision to "go electric" at The Newport Folk Festival in 1965, director James Mangold's film brings Pete Seeger's vision for folk music into sharp focus, with a clear-eyed depiction of how he believed it could help tip the scales of justice. The folk world and Seeger may have lost the darling Dylan they'd wanted—and in fact, it never was Dylan's fate to remain a folkie— but that never caused Seeger to become cynical about his worldview or vision for folk music. The times may have changed, but Seeger had already become a well-established entity by the time of Dylan's artistic shift. His involvement at the famous Camp Woodland just outside Phoenicia, starting a few years earlier in the 1950s, offers a further glimpse into the musician and activist's vision. 

Founded in 1939 and inspired by FDR's New Deal, its founders sought to establish a summer camp for city kids where American Democracy would be put into practice. The progressives behind the camp aimed to walk the walk and ensured the camp was racially and ethnically inclusive while also acknowledging, honoring, and preserving the local culture of the Catskills, including its rich folklore and history. Derided as "Camp Red" by conservative detractors in the 1950s (it would likely be dismissed as "Camp Woke" today), Camp Woodland has been widely acknowledged as an "incubator" for the burgeoning folk music scene of the 1950s and 1960s. Only a short distance from his home in the Hudson Valley, it's easy to see how Camp Woodland would have been an irresistible destination for Seeger. 

Seeger had been blacklisted in the 1950s after refusing to respond to Senator Joseph McCarthy's accusation that he was a communist. That led to a lengthy blacklist from network television (The Smothers Brothers were the first to bring him back to national television in 1968). Seeger's status as a dangerous radical did not stop him (it likely emboldened him) but made it harder to hash out a living. He had a growing family to support with his wife Toshi and earned a living by giving guitar and banjo lessons, performing at venues brave enough to host him, and through work at Camp Woodland. It was Toshi's father, Takashi Ohta, caretaker at Camp Woodland during the late 1940s and early 1950s, who brought the camp into Seeger's orbit. 

Camp Woodland has been a well-documented and studied subject over the years. Bill Horne's 2016 book The Improbable Community: Camp Woodland and the American Democratic Ideal tells the camp's story and reflects on its legacy. Folk Songs of the Catskills: A Celebration of Camp Woodland is a 2000 audio recording of songs honoring Herbert Haufrecht, Woodland's music director during the 1940s, who passed away in 1998. He had also helped collect the songs for the 1982 book Folk Songs of the Catskills. The Norman Studer Papers at the University at Albany Libraries' Department of Special Collections & Archives boasts more than 15 hours of audio recordings of Pete Seeger singing and teaching folk songs to the campers at Woodland. The collection offers a treasure trove of recordings from Woodland's heyday, including Seeger singing the Woody Guthrie classic "This Land is Your Land." A recording of counselor Hector Angula teaching Seeger "Guántanamera" stands out in the collection. There is palpable excitement from the campers as they prepare to listen to the two perform the song before settling into a hush as the song starts. Seeger is audibly taken by the beauty of the song as it concludes, and as the campers applaud, he asks Angula what the words mean in English. The Cuban folk song became a favorite of Seegers (he would later record it for an album), and one can imagine a particular verse resonating with him: 

With the poor people of this earth,

I want to share my lot.

With the poor people of this earth,

I want to share my lot.

The little streams of the mountains

Please me more than the sea.

To explore the digital Camp Woodland collection at SUNY Albany, including pictures and audio recordings, visit https://archives.albany.edu/web/seeger/. A Complete Unknown is still playing in some theaters. 

 

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