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THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES - Aquila Theatre Performs Classic Tale at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 1/19/26 | 1/19/26

HUNTER Sherlock Holmes fans will be delighted to hear that The Hound of the Baskervilles will be performed by the internationally acclaimed Aquila Theatre at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville on January 17-18. Based on the novel written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and adapted by James Lavender, this family-friendly interactive version of the classic play will entertain and intrigue audiences of all ages.

Aquila Theatre is proud to present this thrilling new production of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic mystery, The Hound of the Baskervilles. Set in the eerie, fog-shrouded moors of England, this spine-tingling tale follows the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, rumored to be the victim of a supernatural, ghostly hound. As they uncover chilling secrets and dark family histories, Holmes must use his razor-sharp intellect to solve a case where logic and superstition collide. True to Aquila’s renowned reputation for high-quality, innovative performances, this production will blend suspense, sharp wit, and dynamic storytelling, bringing Doyle’s classic detective tale to vivid life. With Aquila’s legendary style and precision in bringing complex narratives to the stage, audiences will be captivated by unexpected twists, high drama, humor, and the thrill of one of literature’s most celebrated mysteries. 

Directed by Desiree Sanchez Meineck, the cast includes Aquila Theatre company members Bruce Dean (Sherlock Holmes), Joel Trinidad (Watson), Maggie McMeans (Mrs. Hudson) and Alexander Sculli (Sir Grover Drakes-Billets). The audience may need to get in on the act in this participatory night to help Holmes and his makeshift theatre troupe replay and resolve the loose ends of the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, still rumored to be the victim of a supernatural and savage hound. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience—where mystery, suspense, and Aquila’s trademark excellence are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.

The Hound of the Baskervilles will be performed on Saturday, January 17 at 7:00PM and on Sunday, January 18 at 4:00 PM at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main Street, Tannersville, NY. Arrive early to find available parking in the municipal or other parking lots. For tickets, visit https://our.show/hound-of-the-baskervilles , email boxoffice@catskillmtn.org or call 518 263 2063. 

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About Aquila Theatre

Aquila Theatre was founded in London in 1991 and since its move to the United States in 1998,

has become one of the foremost producers of classical theatre, known for bold, innovative interpretations

of the classics. It has built an extensive national and international touring circuit while becoming an

established part of the New York City theater scene with productions such as Iliad: Book One at the Clark

Studio at Lincoln Center and at the Lucille Lortel Theatre, and long-running Off-Broadway productions

of Comedy of Errors and Much Ado About Nothing. Aquila has also had the pleasure of working with the

acclaimed Olympia Dukakis and Louis Zorich in its 2004 production of Agamemnon, David Oyelowo in

Prometheus Bound in a co-production at Classics Stage, and with Bill Pullman in a reading of Oedipus.

Its more recent NYC productions have appeared at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), GK ArtsCenter

in Brooklyn (DUMBO), GYM at Judson, Skirball Center, and the Gurel Theatre. Internationally, Aquila

has performed across Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean, including festivals in London, Holland,

Germany, Greece, and Scotland.


Aquila is also a national leader in arts and humanities programming, with initiatives that use

theatre and ancient stories to foster dialogue, healing, and community, with major support from the

National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities (including a

Chairman’s Special Award), performed at the White House, the U.S. Supreme Court, and the National

Council on the Arts. Aquila was invited by Lin-Manuel Miranda to perform at the U.S. Capitol in support

of the NEH and to feature its groundbreaking veteran-centered programming.


About Catskill Mountain Foundation
The Catskill Mountain Foundation’s (CMF) aim is to provide educational opportunities in the arts for youth and lifelong learners, to bring the experience of the arts to the Catskill community, and to support artists and art organizations in the development of their work through residencies. Since its founding in 1998, CMF has presented hundreds of music, dance, and theater performances; screened over 1,000 films to tens of thousands of audience members; provided studio arts classes to thousands of students of all ages; and served thousands of art-loving patrons in the Catskill Mountain Foundation Gift Shop. The Catskill Mountain Foundation operates the Doctorow Center for the Arts in Hunter, the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville, and the Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts in Maplecrest, NY.


Since 1998, CMF has raised, generated, and invested close to $16 million in facility development and an excess of $42 million in programming operations, for a total investment in the Catskill community of over $58 million. Catskill Mountain Foundation is supported in part by New York State Council on the Arts, the Greene County Cultural Fund administered by the Greene County Legislature, The Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation, The Royce Family Foundation, The Samuel and Esther Doctorow Fund, The Orville and Ethel Slutzky Family Foundation, Platte Clove Bruderhof Community, Bank of Greene County Charitable Foundation, The Greene County Youth Bureau, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, All Souls’ Church, Stewarts Shops, Windham Foundation, and by private donations. CMF believes that the arts can transform the lives of those touched by it and can transform the community. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.


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The Prattsville Scoop by Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Sending out heartfelt thank you messages to all who watch over us in their own special way – Our military and veterans, medical professionals, both doctors and nurses, EMTs, firemen, and those in our retail businesses who are there for us with suggestions and assistance. Thank you.

GO BILLS. Even the sportscasters had to admit the Bills are extraordinary with Josh Allen leading the pack or is that the herd. Now have good winning thoughts for the Bills in the game next Sunday, the 18th.

Had a long chat with Suzette Stuppert Donisan. Her mom Elsie is holding her own and husband Bob continues to be a big help tending to all his chores and helping Suzette with hers. Suzette’s older brother Philip and families are all on the healthy and active sides. Philip and Susanne’s son’s and daughter’s families are very busy with their young lives, meaning Philip and Susanne are kept busy doing grandparent duties. Bob’s and Suzette’s son Austin is super active and has now returned to his home in California. He loves mountain climbing or rock scaling, whatever it is called. Their son Julian and daughter-in-law Elizabeth are kept active with son Edward and daughter Nadia (?), sorry for not being sure of the spelling of her name. Suzette said they are able to video chat with relatives in Germany and Elsie is able to see and be seen by them, as well as other members of the family. Sometimes the new electronics serve a good purpose. So we wish them all a continuation of happy and active lives.

Valeria Rikard Brainerd was spotted in Windham doing some errands. As was Bobby Gurley. While standing in line G.Gurley was surprised when the lady standing in front of her turned around with a big smile and hug from her nephew’s wife Kelly (Adam) Brainard. Well, medical appointments keep you in touch with your friends and family.

Sympathy to the family of Jerry Raeder who recently passed – spouse Phyllis, five daughters and two step children and their families. Jerry will be remembered for his active participation in hometown softball and his bowling – he excelled in both. He was also a one-time owner of the Prattsville Catskill Mtn. Bowling Alley in the 70’s, now the site of the current Jim’s Great American. Rest in peace Jerry. You fought the good fight. Calling hours will be at Miller’s Funeral Home in Roxbury on Saturday, January 17, 1 PM – 3 PM.

Many of the Mass attendees of St. Philip Neri RC Church in Grand Gorge, on January 11, took advantage of the Coffee Hour to catch up on friends and family happenings. One grandmother had a number of grandchildren on the sick list with whatever ailment is currently going around. The high temperatures were alarming but all is now well except Grandma’s washing machine has been out since December and that necessitated the washing by hand of 26 pairs of socks. Maybe she washed the neighbor’s supply also? Anything for a laugh. The next Coffee Hour at St. Philip’s will be January 25, after the 8 AM Mass. All are welcome. Not to be forgotten, the UM Mountain Top Community Churches will be resuming their Second and Fourth Tuesdays Soup and Fellowship Luncheons at the Kaaterskill UMC, Main Street, Tannersville, starting January 13 and continuing thereafter.

Sympathy to the family of Louise Moore Mudge who recently passed. Louise was a long time resident of Prattsville before moving to Roxbury and then recently moving to Catskill to be with her son Tom. Louise loved to dance and if she didn’t have a partner, she kept time with the music, tapping her toes and clapping her hands, while sitting on the sidelines. Keep dancing Louise.

Hope all of you watched the USA National Skating Championships over the weekend for the USA’s skaters. Not biased, well not much, but all of them in whatever category were terrific. The Women’s Championship winners – Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levita - all three of them were superb. And who’s breath does not catch when watching the Quad “god” - Ilia Malinin. The other two winners, Andrew Torgashen and Maxim Naumov, in the men’s individual competition were amazing to watch and will do honor to and for the USA. Maxim Naumov lost his parents along with others in the skating community in the air collision last year in the Washington DC area. Special thoughts are sent his way. And how about Lindsey Vonn? Age is just an impetus to her. We wish them all success at the ‘26 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy.

Cathy Martino made a drop off at G. Gurley. She will return at a later date for a continuation of activities.

Happy Birthday to Derek Briggs on January 18. Happy Birthday to Phyllis Raeder and Benny Benjamin on January 19. On January 20 we wish two special ladies, Marianne Krauss and Theresa Speenburgh, a very Happy Birthday. On January 22 it is Happy Birthday to Nancy O’Hara. Happy Birthday to Valerie Brainerd on January 23.

Please send your news to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518 299 3219. Stay warm and stay healthy. Seems those viruses just find new hosts every day and raise havoc with their health and personal activities.


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WAJ Clips HT Boys Varsity in Thriller

Photos and article by Max Oppen, Stats by Nate Lull

TANNERSVILLE — Whenever these two teams meet, fans can expect a competitive matchup, and this contest was no exception. The Hunter-Tannersville Boys Varsity fell to their rivals, Windham-Ashland-Jewett, by three points, 45–42. WAJ erased a 10-point deficit to secure the win in what was an exciting game from start to finish.

HT Head Coach Chris Glennon praised the atmosphere surrounding the matchup, calling it the first installment of the “Battle of the Mountaintop.” He said, “We led for three quarters but could never pull away from WAJ, and only scored 5 points in the fourth quarter. That was the difference.” Glennon credited WAJ for their performance and highlighted key contributions, adding, “Patrick Dempsey (22 points) was huge for [WAJ] as we lost track of him, and he made us pay with some big hoops.” Glennon also noted that WAJ’s Owen Pellettier hurt HT in the third quarter with 10 points. Reflecting on the loss, he said, “It was disappointing, but we will get back to work.” HT’s Gideon Glennon scored 21 points with 6 rebounds and Donivan Garcia scored 8 points.

The game also marked the first varsity season for WAJ Head Coach Mike Pellettier after a long hiatus from coaching. “It’s such a great rivalry,” said Pellettier, who reflected on the growing trend of combining school districts’ sports teams. “I’d love to combine these guys; get them together. I’d love to work with Chris [Glennon]. We’re just two small schools out here, scrapping. Whenever we get together, it’s great. We have a great team.” Pellettier came from the Adirondacks to coach WAJ and said he returned to the sidelines because he has two sons on the team. “Somebody needed to step up, and I was happy to do it,” Pellettier said.

The two teams will meet again on February 6, when HT hosts WAJ on their home court.


HT's #3 Blake Cameron goes for a layup against WAJ's #3 Payton Dempsey

HT's #11 Gideon Glennon shoots for 3 against WAJ

HT's #21 Grady Maul takes a jump shot in the paint against WAJ

HTs #33 Chase Zimmer on defense against WAJ

WAJ's #12 Harrison Smith goes up against HT's #21 Grady Maul

WAJ's #22 Jake Skilling faces HT defense in the paint on January 10 in Tannersville



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Around the Mountain by LJ James - East Durham 3rd Annual St Patrick's Day Parade

EAST DURHAM — Michael O'Connor left Long Island and moved up to East Durham in August of 2020. In April of 2022 he joined the "Ancient Order of Hibernians". Shortly after joining the local AOH, Michael started asking "why  wasn't there a St. Patrick's Day Parade in East Durham"? After all, East Durham is known as the unofficial 33rd county of Ireland.  The idea for the parade quickly became a passion for Michael O'Connor.

As we all now know... on St Patrick's Day 2024 , (which was also Michael's Birthday)  the first St Patrick's day parade in 32 years took place in East Durham NY.  To say the parade was a success, would be a massive understatement. With over 3 thousand people in attendance, the rumor is the parade is now the 3rd biggest St Patrick's Day Parade in NY State, and according to many I have spoken with, it is the best St Patrick's Day Parade outside of NYC.

Now while Michael O'Connor was "the spark" that started it all ,there have been many who have helped make Michael's dream come alive. Melanie Ward-Wesslock and Seamus Balfe, joined Michael immediately, and Together they formed the Parade committee in 2022. Soon many more came on board, too many to name individually, but all an enormous, and equally important part in the formation of this dream.

For most of us when we attend a parade we just enjoy the magic of it all, but while parades are magical, magic don't pay the bills. There is a lot of work and fundraising by many that goes on behind the scenes.

This parade continues only with the help of the many supporters and sponsors. Anyone , either local business or individual can get a full page ad in the dinner dance journal for only $100. There are also silver and gold sponsor packages available for those looking to give more. 

Then there is the Dinner Dance Fundraiser, held at the Shamrock House of East Durham, at 7pm on Saturday February 28th. This event is only $65 per person. Along with an amazing dinner, there will be LIVE Music by Kitty Kelly Band (Featuring John Nolan) the dinner sells out fast, so be sure to get your tickets ASAP! This is a great way to support this parade, have a great time and maybe even make a few new friends. I know I will be there and look forward to seeing you all. Email EDParade@gmail.com to get your tickets today. 

For more info on the Parade and the many after parties going on, go to EastDurhamStPatricksDayParade.com

I am your Bro LJ James and I will see you Around the Mountain!




Photos by Kim Max






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Watercolor Exotic Birds Exhibit at Mountain Top Library Jan. 17

TANNERSVILLE — There will be an exhibit of watercolor drawings on paper "Exotic Birds Exhibit" at the Mountain Top Library, in Tannersville on Saturday January 17th, 11AM- 2PM. 

The rain date is Saturday, January 24th, 11AM-2PM.

Jerrice J Baptiste is a visual artist, poet, and author.  Her most recent book is Coral in The Diaspora published by Abode Press (August 2024).

Jerrice has shown at the Tannersville Library in August-September 2025 and she is now a returning visual artist with her watercolor Exotic Birds Collection. 

Jerrice J Baptiste is an educator, artist, poet and author of nine books, Her watercolor drawings on paper have been accepted or forthcoming in Las Laguna Art Gallery exhibit in California, Spirit Fire Review, Jerry Jazz Musician Magazine, Synchronized Chaos. Jerrice has presented her art work at The Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY, in June 2025. She's been featured as a solo artist in an art exhibit at The Mountaintop Library in Tannersville NY in August-September 2025, and also in an upcoming solo art exhibit on January 2026 at Mountain Top Library, and at The Duck Pond Gallery in The Town of Esopus Library in Port Ewen, NY, in March of 2026. She's currently participating in Shout Out Saugerties, NY.  Her most recent poetry book Coral in The Diaspora is published by Abode Press (August 2024).Her collaborative songwriting and poems are featured on the Grammy nominated album: Many Hands Family Music for Haiti. She teaches Authentic Poetry workshops in The Catskills, NY.


Bird in Rain - Jerrice J Baptiste

Flyer for Exotic Birds Art Exhibit - Jerrice J Baptiste - for MountainTop Library in Tannersville NY

Jerrice J Baptiste - at Mountain Top Library - Tannersville,  NY

Jerrice J Baptiste

Jerrice J Baptiste with Jacqueline Elmo director of Tannersville Library

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Blenheim Adopts Revised Hazard Mit Plan

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 1/16/26 | 1/16/26

By Joshua Walther

BLENHEIM - On Wednesday evening, the Blenheim Town Board discussed the Schoharie County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, along with other annual resolutions for the new year.

The plan, which is regularly updated every five years by municipalities and the county, states that it “recognizes and acknowledges the ongoing threat of natural, environmental and man-made hazards pose to the residents of the Town.”

As Supervisor Don Airey described it, having the plan on file aids the Town in the event of a natural disaster and helps to secure grants from FEMA and other recovery agencies.

However, while he stated that most of the resolution is copied from previous years, he further said that he added a passage about dams and potential dam flooding, with the amended resolution reading as follows:

“The Town of Blenheim urges additional and enhanced acknowledgement, attention and mitigation protocols, efforts and cooperation concerning New York City DEP and the New York State Power Authority owned and operated dams sited in Schoharie County be included in future . . . Plan updates.”

After citing from the passage, Supervisor Airey expanded on the thought, noting “The agencies that own the dams, operate the dams, and maintain the dams must cooperate with us and with each other, because Schoharie Valley is right in the line of fire if something goes wrong.”

The rest of the Board members needed little sway to adopt his line of logic, and the resolution was swiftly adopted with a unanimous vote to accept the revisions. Supervisor Airey also stated that he plans to send the wording to other towns, though it remains to be seen whether they will follow in Blenheim’s footsteps.

In other news, the Board also held a vote for their twenty three annual resolutions, with some appointing positions like Andy Graves to highway superintendent and Cynthia Young to Town historian, while others focused on everyday operations running smoothly, like the procurement policy or mileage reimbursement rates.

After reading the titles of all resolutions, the Board held a bulk vote to adopt all but one resolution, which focused on the internal audit of the town justice’s books, as it wasn’t returned to Board members in time.

Finally, Supervisor Airey relayed that their newest truck order is still on schedule to have the vehicle be built and delivered to Blenheim in March.

However, he put Board members on notice for near-future discussion on how the Town plans to finance the $360,000 purchase, likely at a workshop or another regular meeting before the truck arrives.


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Cobleskill Tops Schoharie in Recent Matchup

SCHOHARIE — In recent local sports action, the Cobleskill-Richmondville boys' basketball team secured a 50-39 victory over Schoharie.

Schoharie’s effort was led by Zoda Morrissey, who contributed a team-high 21 points, followed by Noah Florussen with 5 points. Despite a strong third quarter where Schoharie outscored Cobleskill 13-9, they were unable to overcome Cobleskill's early lead. Cobleskill’s scoring was paced by N. Jones with 19 points and C. Jackson with 7.

Special thanks to Mitchell Barton.


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Conesville Historical Society Hosting American History & Culture Trivia Night

CONESVILLE — On Saturday, February 21st, there will be an American History and Culture Trivia Night with a bonus "Name That Tune" game. Trivia night will begin at 6:30 PM and there will be refreshments available for purchase.  Join us at the Conesville Fire House; for $10 a person and up to 5 on a team, you will have an unforgettable evening with lots of laughter and learning. Proceeds will be used toward our America 250 Celebration on September 19. A flyer is attached. Help us spread the word!

Help is needed! While the trivia part is taken care of, we are in need of help with refreshments. Laurel Mattice is organizing and would like to invite you to contribute if you are able. Please reach out to Laurel at laurmatt220@gmail.com or 607-588-9480 if you can contribute one of the following items:

Napkins

Plastic Spoons

Disposable Hot Cups (for coffee, mac and cheese, and chili)

2 needed -Crockpots of Chili

2  needed - Crockpot of Mac & Cheese

Baked goods: brownie, cookies, cupcakes

Case of water 

several types - Assorted Soda (cans)

Coffee

Milk

Any extra items we will use throughout the year!


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New Year, New Village of Esperance Website

By Heather Skinner

ESPERANCE — During the regular Esperance Village meeting on January 12th, Clerk/Treasurer Michelle Parks shared that hopefully within the next week or two the new Village of Esperance website will be up and running. Deputy Clerk, Leslie Price, has been working on getting the County website up-to-date. Residents will be able to sign up for TextMyGov messaging app notifications about important information like upcoming public meetings and events, meeting minutes and agendas, as well as updates on weather related events, fires, road closures, holiday office closures, water disruptions, and there will be updated Village photos added. To sign up you will need to visit the Village of Esperance website page through Schohariecounty-ny.gov  to get a code. Signing up for these text notifications will be free to Village residents.

CHIPS from work done to the sidewalks was received, which Mayor Royce Gage said will help them be able to start another project in the Spring. Residents in attendance were curious about how CHIPS works and what it stands for. Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) is state funding that reimburses for road maintenance after it has been completed, initially paid for by a town or village, then submitted for reimbursement.  

The Village representatives mentioned they are still working on grants for the playground that they hope to have figured out by Spring for rebuilds, refurbishes, or whatever it requires. Gage said they will maybe have to go, “Out with the old and in with the New.”

Parks mentioned there have been a lot of complaints coming in about 120 Charleston Street obstructions. The amount of cars there are making it difficult for school buses, ongoing traffic, parking, and neighbors. Parks planned to address the issue with Code Enforcement Officer, Cliff Dorrough, the day after the meeting. Gage reminded that parking on the sidewalk isn’t permitted currently and those who do will face tickets and towing at the vehicle owner’s expense. As stated on signs and during last month’s meeting, November 1st - April 1st there is no parking permitted on State Route 20 and on the Village streets to provide firefighter and snowplow accessibility throughout the winter months.

Meeting resolutions started with # 1 that Parks said is standard at the beginning of the year and listed official appointments. Parks, Price, and Dorrough all have terms due to end in late December of this year. Times Journal and The Mountain Eagle will be established as official papers for public notices and NBT is their official bank. Paul Roberts was appointed Deputy-Mayor, Venus Louise is Registrar, and Angela Burman is Deputy Registrar. Cathleen Houlihan is chairperson of the Planning Board, Matt Deffer is chairperson for the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), and Kenneth Jones is Village Historian. Parks said as of right now Michael West is still their Village Attorney.

Resolution #2 that will be signed is an agreement between the Village of Esperance and the Town of Esperance. Parks summed it up by stating that the Town of Esperance is in control of the one dog warden who handles dog control for both the Village and the Town. Gage added a reminder that for dog licences residents also have to go to the Town. 

Resolution #3 was from the County, “Extending volunteer fireman’s benefit law insurance to members of the Esperance Fire Department who participate on any duly authorized and constituted specialized team for the year of 2026.” Gage read Deffer’s Fire Chief Authorization Forms for Deffer and Brian Largeteau to participate on the County Specialized Team of Fives and for Jason Castle to participate on the County Specialized Team of Search & Rescue. The resolution was unanimously approved.

The Fire Department will be hosting a by-donations-only fundraiser on Sunday, February 8th where a buffet breakfast will be available from 7 AM-11 AM. Your support will be appreciated, “Come eat,” declared Parks!

Esperance Village meetings will continue running on every second Monday of the month, 7 PM in the Village Hall Meeting Room (115 Church Street). February’s meeting date will be on the 9th.

Esperance Town Board meetings are every third Thursday of the month; their January meeting will take place on the 15th, 7 PM at Town Hall (104 Charleston Street).

The Mountain Eagle would like to add how heartwarming it was during this meeting to hear from Gage that he recently spoke to a couple who can’t make it to the monthly meetings and appreciate being able to read about them in this paper. Thanks for the kind words from everyone at the meeting, to all the readers who follow these meeting updates, and shoutout to that specific couple reading. We appreciate you, extend a sincere thank you, and want you to know we value being able to share these events with you.



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Around the Neighborhood - Gilboa/Conesville News by Dorothy Pickett

We got just a little January weather break this past week. Then on Sunday evening the wind began and a snow squall hit here in Flat Creek. For a little while there was no way I could see across the road as I looked out the front window. It was a good time to watch my BILLS play. What a fourth quarter nail biter that was with quarterback Josh Allen making a touchdown with only seconds to go. It ended with BILLS team player Bosa intercepting the play from the Jaguars. With that it was then two knee downs with the game ending. I was totally thrilled and I know fellow correspondent Ginny was too.  Next Sunday there is another BILLS game. I am sure you know who I will be rooting for.

If you get a little bored staying put, you need only to visit The Treasure Barn located on Rte. 30 outside of Middleburgh. Look for the sign and open flag. Lacy Haskin has an amazing number of wonderful items from delicious fudge to special gifts, clothing, quilts, signs and so much more. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm.    

I was sorry to learn that Louise Mudge and Jerry Raider have passed away. Louise’s celebration of life will be held in the Spring. Jerry Raider’s calling hours are Saturday, January 17, 1-3pm at Miller Funeral Home in Roxbury. Condolences to both families with the loss of their loved ones. 

Conesville Town Historian Kim wanted everyone to know that she is earnestly working on the 250th anniversary celebration. The event date is September 26, 2026. It will be a joint event with the Town of Conesville, Conesville Fire Department, and the Conesville Historical Society. The reason for such an early notification is that they will need some help, ideas, and if you know of any vendors etc. who would be interested in joining on that day.  Vendor spaces are $20 and benefit the Fire Department. They are also looking for historical reenactors and artisan demonstrations. There will be a parade so needing your help to let organizations know ahead of time would help as well.  Follow my column for more information on this celebration. If you would like to know in advance how much Kim and the CHS are planning for this event call Kim at 607-435-3258.

Pastor Dawn Richards will hold a 3:00pm Prayer, Tea and Fellowship at the parsonage in Stamford on January 21. Pastor Dawn pastors several churches including Gilboa Methodist Church. All are welcome to attend. 

The Flat Creek Baptist Church meeting will be held this coming Sunday after worship service. My error in last week’s column. There will be a time for fellowship before the meeting with desserts and coffee. 

Through January and February, the news about our two towns becomes very quiet like other small communities. I thought it would be a good reason to go Back in Time. I dug out my late hubby Vernon Pickett’s Great Grandmother Libby Teater’s diaries and went to the year 1936, ninety years ago. Erniel Briggs lived at Valley View Farm as did my hubby, who, during that year, would have been three years old. (another story) Living there were Vern’s great grandmother Libby, grandmother Bessie Cleaveland and her sister Ora Bel. Erniel was the hired man who milked the cows and worked the farm. He fell in love with Ora Bel and got engaged.   Sadly, Ora Bel passed away at age 19 of pneumonia and a tumor on the brain at Albany Med. She made Erniel promise her he would stay at Valley View Farm and watch over her mother Libby. Erniel lived up to that promise, never married and remained on the farm until his passing.  Here are some excerpts about Erniel in Grandma Teter’s diary.

Back in Time: January 21 Erniel picked up milk and went with Everett (I am thinking it was Everett Fancher) while Vernon (my Vern’s father) and Sidney (I believe Sidney Rogers) are getting ready to cut ice on Floyd’s pond. (Floyd and Sate Gordon’s home is my home. The lake is still here where ice was cut.)  On January 22nd, Erniel is cutting ice on the pond. In the middle of the night the town called for him to plow snow. He met the men at Gilboa. January 23, the snow is blowing something terrible and Erniel is still on the snowplow. Tonight, the wind is blowing a living gale Erniel stayed to Gilboa. January 24. It is a terrible day. Erniel is still on the snowplow.  The milk did not go today. The mail came twice. Erniel stayed to Newell’s (Newell Millers farm off Rte. 30 heading to Grand Gorge.) Newell was Town Superintendent or Supervisor at that time.  Finally, on the 25th Erniel came back to the farm. Erniel worked very hard on the farm.  Of course I did not get to know him until 1957. He was loved by my Vern, our two daughters and myself. The girls called him Uncle Erniel. They would go to the barn hand in hand and after chores, across the road they would come hand in hand. He was the best babysitter. There are so many stories in Libby’s diaries. Every hour was precious time for them. They all worked hard to make a living. However, there was always enough food on the table during their three meals a day.  It is amazing the way she spells some words which take a while to decipher. I learned a lot about Vern’s family history through reading these diaries along with Vern’s stories he would often tell me.  A lot more than my own family’s history.  Libby passed in 1953 and wrote in her diary until about two days before she passed away. 

Gilboa’s Town Board Organizational meeting was held Monday evening with Supervisor Alicia Terry at the helm. She began with the Pledge to the flag followed by roll call. All resolutions were read, followed by a motion and then a vote and all in favor with no one opposing. The rest of the meeting on the agenda ensued and the meeting was adjourned around 7:30pm.

Birthdays: January 17 Heidi Pickett, January 22 Nancy O’Hara.  Both of you, enjoy your special day Blessed in the Lord. 

Prayer Concerns: My sister Barbara, John Bubach, and others who may be ill at this writing. 

Gilboa/Conesville Central School: January 19 no school Martin Luther King Day. January 20-23 Regents Exams.   

Upcoming Events: Sunken City Cider Friday, Jan. 16 Cidery hours are extended 3-9pm with Trivia Think & Sip 7-9pm and the Reservoir Food Truck available. Saturday Yoga 11am-12noon, Live Music with ¼ of the way to St. Patrick’s Day you can enjoy music from the Black Mountain Symphony 3-6pm. Cousin Maine Lobster Food Truck available. Saturday, January 18th Paint & Sip 1-3pm Tickets available on website. The reservoir food truck available

Sunday Worship Services:

Gilboa Methodist: 9:00am located on 990V Gilboa 

Flat Creek Baptist: Flat Creek Road, 9:30am Sunday School, 10:30am worship service with coffee and fellowship following the service.  

Conesville United Methodist Chapel: First and Third Sunday of the month 4:00pm Route 990V.

Got News? E-mail pickee@midtel.net


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