MCS Declares Bus, Cafeteria Tables, Equipment as Obsolete/Surplus

Staff Report

MIDDLEBURGH - Making way for new equipment, Middleburgh school officials declared a long list of obsolete/surplus items including cafeteria tables deli serving equipment, and a bus.

School  board members approved the list of the following obsolete/surplus items: 2008 Chevrolet suburban with 183,100 miles, deli serving equipment from the high school, 10 12-seat cafeteria tables from the high school, two Elmo document cameras, a Ferris tri-wheel mower and snow blower with 15,75 miles, a Shimpo Clay reclaimer (pug mill) in the high school, one MovinCool industrial air conditioner, four Epson Powerlites, one Life Fitness Stair Master, a Western Stainless Steel Striker Electric Sander, a SKUTT KS-1027 machine, a Landpride FSP-1000 3-Point Spreader, a seven-on Bumper Jack, and 75 student lockers at the high school.

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In other action, board members:

* Approved Amber Shultes as a long-term volunteer in athletics for soccer statistics under Alex Johnson.

* Approved the following certified substitutes for the upcoming school year: Leanne Baker, physical education, Lil;ian Barsale, elementary and special education, Deborah Brigadier, registered nurse, Kayleigh Brodie, registered nurse, Margaret Hesdorfer, elementary, Lisa Himme, Spanish, Kristy Hoos, elementary, Darcy Laraway, biology and reading, Wes Laraway, social studies, Teresa Norfolk, art, Ellen Richter, registered nurse, Rebecca Shaul biology, general science, Leyla Sogut, registered nurse, Richard Thaxter III, math, Lisa Toborg, elementary, and Lecia Warner, elementary.

* Approved the following support staff substitutes for the 2025-26 school year: Carole Adams, Caroline Adams, Ethan Adams, Leann Baker, Victoria Bouck, Jonathan Bramer, David Cain, bus driver, Gerald Chamberlain, bus driver, Lydia Ciaravino-Pierce, Patricia Coleman, Vasiliki Crewell, Cherl Desanto, Jolene Dines, Danielle Freer, John Furgele, Gloria Gebhard, Mary Gebhard, Michael Gebhard, custodial substitute, Larkin Graham, Katherine Hagan, Stephanie Hildreth, Jill Hudson, James Kelley Jr., custodial substitute, Mary Kochersberger, Vanessa Lawyer, Hailey Masterson, Courtney Nelson, Kaitlyn Nelson, Lloyd Paddock, bus driver, Heather Prokop, Logan Rehberg, Carl Rhinehart, Alyssa Smith, Chloe Smith, Nicole Smith, Shane Smith, Leyla Sogut, Rebecca Stanton-Terk, Leann Strand, Sharon Terzakis, Amy Wayman, Alannah Weygant, Melanie Williams, and Bernard Yuhas.

* Accepted the retirement resignation of registered nurse Kayleigh Brodie effective August 30 with regret and best wishes.

* Extended the leave of absence for Lindsey Standhart, starting September 1 and extending to June 30, 2026.

* Appointed Tracy Manning as a long-term substitute of Elementary Education to fill the position held by Lindsey Standhart who has been granted a leave of absence.  Ms. Manning’s substitute appointment will be effective September 1, 2025 and, provided she provides satisfactory service, is intended to continue for the term of Ms. Standhart’s leave, but no later than June 30, 2026.

* Had the first reading on a policy on "bell-to-bell Internet Enabled devices."

* Approved graduate credit hours for teacher Andrew Drescher.

* Approved a transportation request by the West Fulton Rod & Gun Club to Max V Shaul Park on October 11 for the Timothy Murphy 10K Run/Walk.

 

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MCS Gets First Glimpse of New Playground

By David Avitabile

MIDDLEBURGH - Plans for the recently approved $8.1 million Middleburgh Central School building project will soon be submitted to the state education department.

The project, which includes improvements at the high school, elementary school, bus garage, and a new playground at the elementary school, was approved by voters in June.

Superintendent Mark Place gave the school board an update on the project timeline at the July 30 meeting.

The key points were:

* Submission of architectural plans to the NY State Education Department is scheduled for September 2.

* The district anticipates NYSED approval by January 1, 2026.

* Bids will go out in January/February, with awards expected in March 2026.

* Construction is planned for May through October 2026.

Mr. Place also shared drawings of the work on the schools and the new playground to be build behind the elementary school on the former Little League fields.

MCS voters in June approved an $8.1 million capital project by a count of 273 to 121. The project will utilize state aid and $2 million from the district's Capital Reserve Fund to pay for over a dozen facilities repairs and improvements. There is no additional tax impact.

Repairs and enhancements included in the capital project are focused on resolving current facility repair needs, preparing our infrastructure for future needs, improving safety for students and staff, and supporting community services in the buildings.

New York State Building Aid will cover approximately 75 percent ($6.1 million) of the cost. To keep the local share stable, the district will issue $6.1 million in bonds, which would replace retiring debt payments from a previous project. The district will use $2 million from the district’s Capital Reserve Fund to cover the remaining cost.

Repairs will include:

Junior-Senior High School

The Junior-Senior High School will undergo critical facility upgrades to preserve its historic integrity while improving safety, efficiency and accessibility. The main entry columns will receive structural repairs to ensure their longevity. The overdue replacement of stage and attic windows with energy-efficient models will reduce energy costs. In the auditorium, updated lighting would modernize the space for both school and community events, while the restoration of a missing balcony seating section would expand access. 

The building’s main roof will have gutter repairs to address drainage issues and deterioration of the Yankee gutter system. Additionally, an out-of-service bathroom in the cafeteria will be replaced with ADA-compliant facilities.

Elementary School

Renovations at the elementary school will focus on safety and accessibility. The gymnasium’s outdated bleachers, which have been unusable for years, will be replaced with a modern set featuring side rails and other enhancements.

Additionally, space will be expanded at the school-based health center. The new design will include the required wet and dry areas to ensure a safe environment. Bassett Healthcare services support student learning and participation in athletics with free well-care and some dental services.

The Maze Craze, built by volunteers in 1989, is a cherished part of Middleburgh history. Over 35 years later, modern safety requirements, including wheelchair accessibility, require the district to consider the diverse needs of students in different ways. The district will gather community input and construct a new playground on the former Little League field— that would meet current codes and create joyful, barrier-free experiences for every child.

While MCS officials continue the design of the next playground, an online petition continues to attract signers to save the Maze Craze playground at the elementary school. District officials are planning to commemorate, and then "decommission" the wooden playground in about two years, but signers of the petition are asking the district to save the playground, that was built in 1989.

As of Tuesday, 650 people signed the petition titled "Save the Maze Craze Playground-Middleburgh, NY."

The petition reads, "The Maze Craze playground has been a vital part of the Middleburgh, NY community for years. This charming playground is not just a playground; it’s a place where children laugh, friendships are formed, and everlasting memories are created. Tearing down this playground would mean losing a piece of our community’s heart and a place our children have come to cherish.

Bus Garage Repairs

To ensure the bus garage remains safe and efficient, several upgrades are proposed. Two bus lifts, which have already exceeded their life expectancy, will be replaced. A floor sealer would be applied to preserve the integrity of the floor. Additional drainage would be installed to prevent water intrusion, helping to protect both the structure and surrounding grounds. Conduit will be installed under the parking lot to prepare for state-mandated electric vehicle charging.

 

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Painted Land Shown at Gilboa Museum

GILBOA — This weekend the Gilboa Museum on Stryker Road hosted a screening of "Painted Land," which showed the inspiration of great Canadian landscape painters of the 20th Century. Special credit to the Hobart Fire Department for the use of the popcorn popper.

 

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History, Music, Oral History & More in Conesville

CONESVILLE — The Conesville Historical Society (CHS) is excited to announce several upcoming events for the community. All events are FREE and open to the public.

On August 18 at 6pm, Lee Hudson from the Gilboa Museum will be presenting a program at the Conesville Chapel Church on “Gilboa in 1925: the Village, the Reservoir.”  The talk and discussion will feature a showing of a silent newsreel created from archival Fox News footage of the building of the Gilboa Dam and the last days of the old Village.  

On Friday August 22, there will be live music by the Catskill Mountain String Band and an ice cream social beginning at 6:30 at the Conesville Chapel Church. 

On September 13, CHS will host its annual County Historian Lecture  at 10:30 am at the church. This year Ted Shuart will present his program, “Inns, Taverns & Hotels of Schoharie County.”  Following the presentation, CHS will participate in Conesville Fire Department’s Touch a Truck event which runs from 12:00-4:00pm.

To close off the evening, there will be a square dance with the Tremperskill Boys at the Conesville Fire House beginning at 7:00 PM. 

September 15th’s monthly program “In Their Own Words” will feature CHS’s own Oral History Project. At 6:00 PM, Debbie Hill, project coordinator, will lead a conversation about the project and showcase excerpts from edited versions of the oral history interviews. Interviewees will also be on hand to talk about their experiences and brushes with history.   The oral history project is ongoing.  Anyone with interest in participating should reach out to the historical society. 

CHS has been fortunate to receive a grant for both the Catskill Mountain String Band Concert and the Tremperskill Boys events in addition to a Story Laurie program held this past May. All three  programs have been made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of The Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by CREATE Council on the Arts.

The Conesville Historical Society is a 501c3 organization and registered NYS Charity. It was founded in April 2022 and runs monthly programs, workshops, an oral history project, and more, with the mission of preserving the rich history of Conesville, researching and archiving materials for future generations, and educating the community. For more information, check out our Facebook Page or email conesvillehistoricalsociety@gmail.com. 

 

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MCS Ready for New State Cell Phone Ban

By David Avitabile

MIDDLEBURGH  - Middleburgh Central School is "fully prepared" to implement the new state cell phone ban this fall.

"We are fully prepared for the upcoming ban on internet-enabled devices," MCS Superintendent Mark Place said last week. "Prior to the end of the school year, we communicated these changes to families, and (high school Principal Matthew) Sloane also hosted a Google Meet to answer parent questions."

Mr. Place explained the new ban.

"In accordance with the Governor’s order, phones may not be kept on students’ persons or in their backpacks. At MCS, students will be required to store their phones in their lockers for the entirety of the school day. Parents who need to reach their child — or vice versa — can do so by calling the school’s main office."

To help keep students updates, "At the high school, we have also invested in large-screen displays in the lobby outside the main office and in the cafeteria to share timely updates, such as sports schedule changes or after-school activity cancellations," Mr. Place added.

Reminders will be sent out before school starts next month.

"Mr. Sloane and I will also be sending reminders to families in the coming weeks to ensure everyone is fully aware of the expectations before the start of the school year," Mr. Place said.

 

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Local Effort Revives Red Fox Stables as Premier Equestrian, Event & Retreat Destination

By Matthew Avitabile

SCHOHARIE — A beloved Schoharie County property is entering a new era. Formerly a private residence and barn, Red Fox Stables & Resort, located at 578 Terrace Mountain Road, has been fully revitalized into a premier equestrian, lodging, and event destination in the heart of the Schoharie Valley.

Since acquiring the property in November,  Sergio Agme has spearheaded a thoughtful transformation to create a space that blends natural beauty, expert care, and warm hospitality. The result is a welcoming and multifunctional retreat that offers something for every visitor, from seasoned equestrians to weekend guests and wedding parties.

At the center of barn operations is Tiffany Lavigne, an experienced horsewoman and owner of Raven Hollow Ranch in Sloansville. As barn manager, Lavigne oversees full-service horse boarding, riding instruction, and wellness-based programming. She also leads Equine Empowerment workshops for women, including confidence-building sessions for survivors of domestic abuse, as well as yoga for equestrians to help riders improve posture, balance, and connection with their horses.

“The energy here is peaceful and kind,” said Lavigne. “We’ve created a space that supports healing, confidence, and joy for both horses and people.”

The facility boasts spacious, matted stalls, premium hay and grain, daily turnout in lush paddocks, and 24/7 expert care. Indoor and outdoor riding arenas, plus scenic on-site trails, make it an ideal home for horses and their owners.

But Red Fox offers much more than equestrian care. The property now hosts Airbnb stays, where guests can enjoy kayaking and fishing on nearby Schoharie Creek, relax with optional yoga sessions, and explore the stunning rural landscape. With a balance of rustic charm and upscale touches, the accommodations provide a serene escape for couples, families, and solo travelers.

Red Fox is also gaining attention as a boutique wedding and event venue. The grounds are available for private celebrations, with customizable packages that include tented ceremonies by the pond, access to the luxury guest house, and support for setup and coordination. From intimate elopements to full weekend weddings, the setting offers unforgettable backdrops and exclusive-use privacy.

“We’re building something truly special,” said Agme. “Red Fox is a place where people come to connect with nature, with animals, and with each other. Whether you're here to board your horse, book a relaxing getaway, or celebrate a milestone, we aim to deliver a beautiful, elevated experience.”

Red Fox Stables & Resort is now accepting new boarders, Airbnb reservations, and bookings for 2026 weddings and private events. With its scenic views, expert team, and growing list of offerings, it’s quickly becoming one of Schoharie County’s most exciting and inspiring destinations.

For more information, visit www.redfoxstables.net or email info@redfoxstables.net.

 

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Local Writing Focus - So You Want to Buy Land: Signing at Schoharie Mercantile Aug. 16

By Matthew Avitabile

WEST FULTON — We spoke to Charles Rielly about his book So You Want to Buy Land. He said that it traces his search for property, which culminated in the purchase of a large wood lot, and his perseverance as a father of three children after his wife’s passing. Rielly started a firewood business, remarried, and had two more children. The family built a cabin and started a Christmas tree business.

The Schoharie Mercantile at 303 Main Street, Schoharie, is pleased to announce that Chuck will be talking to customers and signing his book at the store from 1-3 pm on Saturday, August 16th. We hope to see you there.

His property is Spur Rd off of Bear Ladder Road in West Fulton. He was a middle school math teacher in Schenectady.

The purchase of the property was “very lucky.” He would take photos and hiking over the weekend. One day he pulled into a farm lot and saw a man outside working. Rielly asked if he could walk on the property and shared photos of his travels. The farmer offered to sell his property. Rielly considered the offer on the house and 155 acres. He spoke to his wife Judy to consider it, including the possibility of doing firewood and a potential antiques business. Rielly was unable to purchase the property due a price disagreement but continued looking for property in the area. Over time, the two sides agreed with a purchase of 100 acres. The farmer held the mortgage. The following year, Rielly’s wife died, making maintaining the home more difficult. He started a firewood business and purchased a truck. 

Rielly met his current wife Melinda and were married in 1987 and soon thereafter decided to build a log cabin. The process came with “all sorts of problems” chronicled in the book.

He cited friends and neighbors who “were always there.” 

The book ends as the process of fixing the property was underway.

Purchase at https://www.amazon.com/So-You-Want-Buy-Land/dp/B0D9WPBHJ4.

 

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ROCK the LOCK 2025 at Schoharie Crossing - Music Series Brings Rocking Music to Historic Erie Canal

FORT HUNTER – Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site is happy to announce the 2025 ROCK the LOCK music series. Three afternoons of music will occur in August outside the Putman Canal Store at Yankee Hill Lock and feature local as well as regional acts. These performances will begin at 1pm on Saturday, August 16th, August 23rd, and August 30th.

To start off the series, the site welcomes the Zorbas Trio, who combine jazzy rock with classical sensibility. They’ll be followed by the Bluebillies, performing their unique blend of country, bluegrass and folk music with traditional style, sound and spirit.

On August 23rd, the Hudson Valley gothy group Dust Bowl Faeries will open for the swinging Nisky Dixie Cats. The series wraps up on August 30th with folky duo, Question of the Century as the opener for the Albany based alt rock band called E.R.I.E. 

These events are supported by the Friends of Schoharie Crossing, WEXT Radio, Metroland Magazine, and Karen’s Produce and Ice Cream. Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

The location for this series is Yankee Hill Lock at Schoharie Crossing, 550 Queen Anne Road, Amsterdam, Montgomery County. 

These are free open-air events.  Bring a lawn chair and dress for the weather. For more information, please call the Visitor Center: (518) 829-7516 or email SchoharieCrossing@parks.ny.gov. Find more details and updates on our Facebook page.

   The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 88.3 million visits in 2024. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call (518) 474-0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and the OPRHP Blog.

 

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Sales and Music in M'burgh

MIDDLEBURGH - Middleburgh will host two popular events in the next few weeks.

The annual Timothy Murphy village-wide garage and yard sale day will be held on Saturday, August 16 from 9am to 3pm.

On Friday, August 22, the annual Heritage Day concert will be held from 7 to 8:30pm at the restored M&S Depot and the corner of Maple and Wells avenues.

 

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Level Up Your Digital Game: SEEC 2025 Digital Power Hours Continue with Canva 101 & AI Workshops

SCHOHARIE COUNTY – The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC), is inviting small business participation in the final two sessions of the interactive 2025 Digital Power Hour workshop series, Canva 101 and AI Tips & Tricks. 

Hosted as a hybrid format, both sessions will be held virtually and in person at 287 Main Street, Schoharie, on August 11 and September 15, 2025. Each one-hour workshop will be led by experienced experts and will feature real-world examples, live tutorials, and practical strategies for immediate application.

“This free series supports entrepreneurs and small businesses in enhancing their brand visibility, improving customer engagement, and streamlining operations through digital tools,” commented Emily Smith, SEEC Marketing Coordinator. “All with the goal of boosting sales and maintaining a competitive edge in today’s digital economy.”

Upcoming Sessions:

Canva 101 by Primeau Fahey & Associates
Monday, August 11, 2025
10:00–11:00 AM
In person at 287 Main Street, Schoharie + Zoom

In this beginner-friendly workshop, attendees will learn how to use Canva to create high-quality, professional designs for social media, marketing, and more. The session will cover templates, brand kits, layout customization, and practical design tips. The session will be led by Paul Fahey, Vice President of Primeau Fahey & Associates—a leading marketing and media agency known for its expertise in storytelling, video production, and content strategy.

“You don’t need fancy software or a big budget to create eye-catching content,” said Fahey. “Canva is a simple, powerful tool—perfect for small businesses looking to level up.”

AI Tips & Tricks by UAlbany Small Business Development Center
Monday, September 15, 2025
10:00–11:00 AM
In person at 287 Main Street, Schoharie + Zoom

The final session of the 2025 Digital Power Hour series will introduce attendees to practical ways AI can streamline their operations, enhance content creation, and support smarter business decisions. Topics include automation tools, workflow integration, and best practices for using AI in everyday tasks.
The session will be co-hosted by Greg Chanese, Assistant Director at the UAlbany Small Business Development Center, and Chris Vitale, a local entrepreneur and coworker at 287 Main.

Both sessions are free to attend and are part of SEEC’s ongoing commitment to supporting small business development and digital literacy through its Digital Revolution initiative. This broader effort focuses on expanding broadband access, promoting digital innovation, and ensuring Schoharie County businesses have the tools to compete and thrive in an evolving economy.

For more information and to register, visit www.seecny.org or contact marketing@seecny.org  

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About The Schoharie Economic Enterprise (SEEC): Founded by private sector leaders, SEEC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening Schoharie County by fostering economic growth. 

About SEEC Digital Enlighten Series: The Digital Enlighten Series is a SEEC initiative launched in 2023 to equip rural communities and small businesses with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the digital age. Since its launch, the series has grown to include 10 on-demand webinars (available on SEEC’s YouTube channel) and continues to grow through expert-led workshops, panels, and interactive sessions. Covering topics from emerging technologies and digital marketing to data literacy and e-commerce, Digital Enlighten offers practical, accessible insights for business owners, students, and lifelong learners—both online and in person at SEEC’s 287 Main headquarters.

About Primeau Fahey & Associates: Primeau Fahey & Associates is a leading public affairs and strategic communications firm serving clients across New York State and beyond. With deep expertise in government relations, community engagement, and media strategy, the firm helps clients navigate complex political landscapes and achieve meaningful impact. Known for its hands-on approach and strong network of public and private sector relationships, Primeau Fahey & Associates empowers organizations to tell their story, shape policy, and drive progress.

About the UAlbany SBDC: The UAlbany Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides expert guidance and support to small businesses and entrepreneurs across the Capital Region. Through personalized one-on-one advising, training programs, and access to valuable resources, the UAlbany SBDC helps businesses start, grow, and succeed. Whether you're launching a new venture, navigating funding opportunities, or exploring digital tools, the SBDC team offers trusted, no-cost assistance to empower your business every step of the way.

 

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Timothy Murphy Playhouse Presents Cabaret

MIDDLEBURGH — Timothy Murphy Playhouse presented the musical Cabaret over the weekend — with three show in the Middleburgh High School Auditorium. Directed by Myleah Misenhimer Frary, Choreographed by Sarah Clermont, with Musical Director Mikayla Pecan, and Artistic Designer Tim Fisher.

Set in 1930s Berlin as the Nazi party rises to power, Cabaret explores themes of political and social decay, and individual desire versus societal pressure. Cabaret takes place in and around the Kit Kat Club, a seedy, hedonistic nightclub run by the Emcee (played by Isaac Simeon). When American Cliff Bradshaw (played by Antonio Brooks) arrives in Berlin planning to write a book, he finds inspiration in the Kit Kat Club and the people he meets there. He falls in love with performer Sally Bowles (played by Stella Beardsley) and witnesses the rise of Nazism and how it becomes inescapable. Photos by Scott Keidong.

 

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