The Eastwick Press Newspaper

Eastern Rensselaer County's Community Newspaper

Local News

Seventeen Horses Seized From Black River Stable In Cherry Plain

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by David Flint

 

Humane Society investigators accompanied by State Police and staff from four equine rescue groups seized 17 horses last Wednesday, September 13, from Black River Stable in Cherry Plain. The Stable has been in operation for two years on CCC Dam Road, just down the road from the Cherry Plain State Park. Proprietors Thelma and Mary Wadsworth offered lessons in horsemanship and day camps for children and trail rides for adults as well as children. 

According to Brad Shear, Executive Director of the Mohawk-Hudson River Humane Society, his organization received an anonymous tip almost a year ago from a person who was concerned that the horses at the Stable were not being treated properly. The Society sent investigators to check it out and found conditions that “were not great,” but they thought they could work with the Wadsworths to improve things. They provided a plan for the feeding and care of the horses and returned monthly to observe. But, according to Shear, conditions just kept getting worse. 

He said the horses were not fed properly and they began to look terribly emaciated. There apparently was

One of the 17 horses seized at the Black River Stable by the Humane Society last week. Photo courtesy of Brad Shear, Executive Director of the Mohawk-Hudson River Humane Society.
One of the 17 horses seized at the Black River Stable by the Humane Society last week. Photo courtesy of Brad Shear, Executive Director of the Mohawk-Hudson River Humane Society.

no veterinarian or farrier care, he said, and the horses’ hooves were in very bad shape. Investigators observed no food for the horses on the property. This month the Society contacted the State Police who got a warrant to seize the horses. They were placed with three of the rescue groups. Shear said five of the animals have been signed over to the Society and the Society will pursue ownership of the other twelve through the courts. The plan is to eventually adopt out the horses. In the meantime, Shear said, the Society is hoping to get donations to help with their care.

Shear said he will be working together with the State Police to develop the information for possible animal cruelty charges to be lodged against the Wadsworths. There could be one count for each horse. 

The Wadsworths, reached by phone this week, declined to comment on the matter.

Grafton Pig Farm Plan Stirs Up Opposition

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by Judith Radford

When the Grafton Town Board held its regular monthly meeting at 7 pm on Thursday, August 14, it was announced that an email from Tyler Sawyer dated July 31 indicated that he is withdrawing his application for a building permit already issued by the Town of Grafton. Even so many residents spoke during the public comment period requesting that the situation be clarified and the pig farm that Sawyer was planning be blocked. Tyler Sawyer is a recent Grafton Town Supervisor. 

Supervisor Allison Kirchner reminded everyone that there is a five minute limit per person. But for this particular occasion, it seemed as though no one paid much attention to the limit.

First to speak was Bernard Horowitz, a resident of Babcock Lake and Secretary of the Babcock Lake Estates. At the start he said that he was speaking as an individual, not as a member of the Estates. The issue pertained to the proposed pig farm being planned on land just 400 feet above the beach on Babcock Lake by Tyler Sawyer. Horowitz said, “The proposed pig farm is a true threat to the health and well being of the lake and its residents.” He went on to say, “I was shocked at the immediate approval of the building permit for this effort without any discussion. I understand the permit has since been withdrawn, but I would like to know Sawyer’s intent. Is it to downsize so as not to require a permit or follow provisions of the Right to Farm Law?” He said, “The greater issue is how do we protect Babcock Lake and other lakes? This issue has brought to the forefront a demonstrated vulnerability of our lakes which are just as precious as our farm lands.” Horowitz went on to talk about it being in the best interests of all property owners to maintain our property values and also increase our attractiveness so as to increase our tax base. He believes the interests of owners and the Town is parallel for these reasons to the Right to Farm Law and there should be an appropriate adjudication method for all Grafton property owners. 

Supervisor Kirchner thought the idea of all Lake Associations getting together to discuss this issue was a good one. 

Denise Grubsey of Babcock Lake said she realized the Town had attempted zoning and that meetings on zoning had been wild and disrespectful. She said at the time that spot zoning had been considered for watershed protection and wondered what had happened. She said she was looking for guidance from the Board as to what direction they could take. She also said it might be a good idea to pick a Board member to meet with the Lake members. Supervisor Kirchner said it could be a discussion for the next meeting when she would have had  time to look at the Town code and also the Right to Farm Law. 

Former Supervisor Tyler Sawyer spoke saying he had seen Horowitz’s letter and received lots of communications. He said none of the complaints are consistent with the current Town code. He said, “There is no residential zoning, Town code citation or any other law exempting general farming use.” He said there was confusion about the permit; it was for sheds and outbuildings and there will be no septic. Sawyer said, “I take offense at the insinuation that there was any impropriety in the issuance of the permit. There was no reason not to issue a permit.” Sawyer went on to say that he had received many emails and that “It’s been going on for over thirty days and no one has approached me in person.” He also said, “An alarm has gone out and this is overblown.” He told the crowd he has no intention of having a lot of pigs, just a few, as his parents did before him. 

Linda Porter said the residents want to work with the Town on this issue. She stated there are over a dozen lakes in the area and doesn’t believe any of us want to destroy our population by degrading our lakes. 

Sawyer said he had met with the Babcock Lake Board and said if this was hazardous, there would already be laws. He said, “This is not a farm; it is raising a few animals for our own use.” He also said there are many failing septic systems on the lake right now! He said he will work with the community. Board Member Fredricks asked if there were going to be a specific number of pigs, 4 or 5. 

Jason Sawyer said he is baffled by the issue since there is no zoning in Grafton. Sawyer said he lives in the new Stonybrook subdivision and he plans on “bringing in some animals to my property, too.” Theron O’Dell said that for seven generations “we have had the right to farm” and many would not have eaten if there had been no law. He asked why Babcock Lake hasn’t shored up their own rules. 

A Babcock Lake resident said the old rules forbidding livestock had expired years ago and belonging to the association is entirely voluntary but that all residents should be strongly concerned. Efforts are made to raise the level of awareness regarding septic system maintenance. The reason they are coming to the Town is because they are all taxpayers of Grafton and are regulated by the Town and by Rensselaer County. They have already made the Grafton Planning Board aware of the issues. 

Theresa Swider, present to discuss the Dunham Road repaving effort, said she would be willing to assist the group as there are many municipal options and specific requirements for any new well and that NYS Department of Environmental Conservation regulates all drilling and protects the public water supply. Since she works in this area, she would be willing to assist in a group effort to resolve the problem.

Bernard Horowitz stood up again and said that the Right to Farm Law also states that agricultural practices shall not be found to be a public nuisance or to endanger public health or safety. Putting a hog farm within 450 feet of a lake and public beach could cause a public health hazard. 

Reports

Superintendent of Highways Herbert Hasbrouck reported that the highway department is working on Dunham Road as weather permits. They are also hauling sand in preparation for the winter. Hasbrouck also stated he had met with the Town Engineer and with Scott Holbretter regarding the latest Stonybrook subdivision. They will get back together again. He went on to state that there has been some erosion of the roads due to the weather, and he has put in a notice to FEMA as Grafton may be entitled to some monies. 

Tom Withcuskey, Code Enforcement Officer, reported 38 building permits have been issued so far in 2008 with 35 of them being outstanding from 2007. He has also sent letters for permit renewals and to property owners with junk cars. He reported that the building permit issued to Tyler Sawyer for an animal farm has been withdrawn and advised the Town Attorney of this. The matter is now considered a personal matter between Sawyer and the residents of Babcock Lake. 

Sharon Lecce of the Grafton Rescue Squad reported there were 13 calls during the month of July, 40.4 volunteer hours were expended and they traveled 177 miles. 

Email and verbal communications were received from the Grafton United Methodist Church and St. John Francis Regis Catholic Church thanking the Town for providing Port-a-Potties and garbage pickup for their jointly held summer festival. The email was from Barbara Terpening and the verbal thank you from Sister Kennan. 

A letter was received from Ken Bruno, Chairman of the Board of the Hemlock Valley Way Inc., Homeowner’s Association regarding the failure to date of Stonybrook, LLC in their obligation to transfer ownership of recreation and lake access lands as represented when the properties were purchased. The Association is contemplating legal action against Stonybrook to compel them to honor their obligations. Bruno asked that the Town not approve any further subdivisions of Stonybrook until their obligations are met. 

A letter was received from Time Warner Corporation informing the Town they have decided not to pursue a television franchise in Grafton.

Email regarding Tyler Sawyer’s building permit were received from Bernard Horowitz, Secretary of the Babcock Lake Estates and Michael Longo, President of the Babcock Lake Estates.

New Truck

There was a discussion regarding the purchase of a new pick-up truck for the Highway Department. According to Hasbrouck, the base price for the new pick-up would be $18,346 and would increase to $27,164 when fully outfitted. Several suggestions were made to buy the plow package locally and, of course, eliminating air conditioning and other add-ons to get closer to the base price. Councilman Fredricks said the bedliner kit could be purchased separately and installed by the Town. Hasbrouck said it wouldn’t be under the warranty if purchased separately. There will be more meetings to discuss this issue and it was tabled for the time being. 

Turnout Gear

The issue of purchasing “turnout gear” for the Rescue Squad was discussed. The Squad presented three prices – Garrison’s price was $748. This was the lowest price as the material used is nylon and not puncture resistant nor fire resistant. Also, shipping was not included. Galls’ price was $1,049. This was puncture resistant but not fire resistant and shipping was not included. B-Lann’s price was $1,156. These are both fire and puncture resistant and, since it is a local company, there will be no shipping charges. 

Council members asked why the Rescue Squad favored the more expensive gear, and Sharon Lecce responded that the gear is required gear and must follow OSHA guidelines. Neither Garrison nor Galls meet those requirements, but B-Lann does. Lecce said they need a decision soon since there is a September 15 inspection date. She also said no other companies make this gear and in order to use the State bidding process, they would have to order 20 or more sets,. They only need two sets; one is being donated. Kirchner said more discussion is required among the Council members but they will make a decision soon.

Snowmobile Trail

Each year, the Grafton Trailblazers ask for the Town’s support to use a strip of land owned by Nationalgrid, which runs through Grafton, as a snowmobile trail. Prior to granting any authorization, the Town’s approval is required. Thus, the Trailblazers merely ask for an approval and signature of someone representing the Town. Councilman Mike Crandall said this is a very good group, very respectful of residents and he sees no problem with this approval. Councilwoman Messenger asked how are we assured that ATVs and others won’t use the trail. According to Kirchner, the letter from the Trailblazers states that no ATVs or other wheeled vehicles will be allowed on the trail at any time. Upon further discussion, a vote was taken to approve the request.

No Chairman Of Assessors

Supervisor Kirchner asked for Town Board approval of a resolution rescinding an earlier resolution designating the Chairman of the Board of Assessors and leaving that position vacant until further resolution of the Board. A roll call vote was taken and all members voted to approve with the exception of member Barbara Messenger who voted nay. The measure was approved.

A Misunderstanding

David Buckley asked to be heard as a former resident (current resident of Cropseyville). He stated he had submitted a request, hand written, asking for his right under the Freedom of Information Act to have access to the file relating to the sale of his property located on 33 Dyken Pond Road  consisting of 2.10 acres. Apparently Buckley had asked for a certificate of occupancy which could not be issued because there is no well or septic on the piece of property. Instead, Town Clerk, Suzanne Putnam, responded to Buckley’s request with a certificate of compliance and also responded to his FOIL request within 3 days. It was hand delivered by Tom Withcuskey as he had an appointment with Buckley that day. When contacted after the Board meeting, Putnam said that the FOIL request was typed, not hand written, as Buckley apparently was angry that the response was “not in writing.” It all just seemed like a misunderstanding, and Buckley’s anger seemed misplaced and confused. The Town of Grafton cannot issue “certificates of occupancy” when the building is not deemed habitable. Buckley kept talking about being in legal jeopardy because the Town didn’t respond to his request for occupancy or properly to his FOIL request.

To Pave Or Not To Pave

Theresa Swider asked to be heard about the decision by the town to resurface Dunham Reservoir Road and discontinue the use of blacktop and pavement. She asked to go on the record that she is against this decision and supports the continued use of blacktop. As the Town Board discussed at previous meetings, blacktop and pavement have become inordinately expensive and the Town budget will not allow. The Town has chosen rather to resurface where needed. Mike Smith, a resident on this road, praised Hasbrouck and the Town crew for the great job they did cleaning out the ditches. He said the road is a maintenance issue rather than repaving. He believes grinding the road up to resurface is the wrong way to go and that the town crews should just patch the road whenever it is necessary and stabilize it. This issue will continue to be discussed over the next few months before the 2009 budget is in place. 

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm.

Stephentown Fire Dept. Treasurer Survives Fatal Crash

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by David Flint

Bill Jennings reports that he is doing well physically but still suffering mental stress after surviving a head on crash on Tuesday, August 12 in which the other driver was killed. 

According to Sgt Mark St.Germain of the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred on Garfield Road in Stephentown at 9:05 am about a half mile east of Woodward Road. Jennings, a Fire Commissioner and Treasurer of the Stephentown Volunteer Fire Department, was driving westbound in a 2003 Toyota pickup truck when he was struck head on by a 1983 Chevrolet sedan driven by Erika Jellison, 20 years old, from North Adams. Apparently, he said, Jellison went too wide on a curve in the road and lost control of her vehicle. 

Jennings said he tried to avoid the crash but there was no room. He was gratified to see his colleagues from the Stephentown Fire Department and Rescue Squad arrive quickly on the scene. Miraculously he had suffered no major injury and was released from the scene with the understanding his wife Ellen would transport him to Berkshire Medical Center to be checked out. He did suffer a sprained ankle and lots of sores, bruises and scrapes, but the worst was the emotional stress and the knowledge that the young driver of the other car had not survived. It was a totally unnerving experience unlike any he had ever had, Jennings said.

No More Detours On East Hollow Road In Petersburgh

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Rensselaer County Highway crews have re-opened East Hollow Road in Petersburgh after replacing a culvert over a stream near the intersection with Phillips Road. Work at the site continues. There is scaffolding still set up in the stream on the downstream side, and some patching of the concrete on the wingwalls, which were not replaced, is in progress. The road re-opened last week, after being closed when heavy rains created a large hole in the roadway last March. (Alex Brooks photo)
Rensselaer County Highway crews have re-opened East Hollow Road in Petersburgh after replacing a culvert over a stream near the intersection with Phillips Road. Work at the site continues. There is scaffolding still set up in the stream on the downstream side, and some patching of the concrete on the wingwalls, which were not replaced, is in progress. The road re-opened last week, after being closed when heavy rains created a large hole in the roadway last March. (Alex Brooks photo)

Taking Woodstock Comes To Stephentown

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by David Flint

Filming of the movie “Taking Woodstock” which has begun in Columbia County is scheduled to move into Stephentown next month. Representatives from Tuxedo Terrace Films appeared at the Stephentown Town Board meeting Monday evening to explain the process and allay residents’ concerns. 

The film is based on a memoir by Eliot Tiber who, while managing his parents’ seedy motel in the Catskills

The former Shady Rest Motel on Route 20 in New Lebanon has now become the El Monaco Motel, replicating Eliot Tiber’s parents’ seedy motel in the Catskills in 1969. (David Flint photo)
The former Shady Rest Motel on Route 20 in New Lebanon has now become the El Monaco Motel, replicating Eliot Tiber’s parents’ seedy motel in the Catskills in 1969. (David Flint photo)

in 1969, ended up playing a pivotal role in bringing about the Woodstock Festival. The film is produced by James Shamus and is directed by Oscar Award winner Ang Lee, (“Brokeback Mountain,” “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon,” “The Ice Storm”). Tuxedo Terrace is a production company in association with Focus Features, a specialty films unit under NBC Universal.

 

Location Manager Joe Guest said that Sullivan County in the Catskills has changed a lot since 1969, so,

 searching for a replica of Tiber’s motel, they found one in New Lebanon, the former Shady Rest Motel on Route 20. It has now become the El Monaco Motel. The fact that Producer James Shamus is a resident of Columbia County might have had something to do with that. Then they began to search out other scene locations in the surrounding area and settled on three locations in Stephentown. 

 

A half mile stretch of Route 43 between Calvin Cole Road and Tinley Road will be used to show part of the traffic jam that occurred on Route 17B in Sullivan County, the road leading to the Woodstock Festival. There will be up to 300 extras in the scene and some 200 vehicles from the 60s or earlier. Preparation work and a rehearsal are scheduled for Sunday, September 14, followed by filming the next day and completion of clean-up on Tuesday. Guest said they are still looking for extras for this scene.

In October the Stephentown Evangelical Church near the intersection of Routes 22 and 43 will become the Church in Bethel where the Town Council had its meetings. Filming is scheduled for October 2 and 3. 

Finally, the bar of the Stephentown Hotel will be used to represent the bar at the El Monaco Motel, a center of activities during the concert.  Filming at the Hotel is scheduled for October 6 and 7. 

Town Supervisor Tom Sherman intimated that he and the film company had gotten off to a rough start because he had only found out that the company was scouting out locations in Stephentown after complaints started coming in about vehicles blocking roads and driveways in the vicinity of Stone Bridge Pond. In past weeks he has been working closely with the company and with residents, County and State offices, the Fire Department and Post Office to resolve any disruption issues that might arise. He and Highway Superintendent Neil Gardner also spent time working out detour routes around the filming sites. He also invited location crew representatives and the concerned residents to the Town Board meeting to discuss and resolve their issues. 

A number of residents expressed concerns, especially those living on Williams Road by Stone Bridge Pond. They wanted to know who is liable if anything goes wrong, how were residents to gain access to their homes when roads are blocked off, where would work vehicles for the film be parked and how would Stephentown benefit. Some were worried about large numbers of unknown persons from all over in the area and the possibility of break-ins. Williams Road residents wanted assurance that vehicles would not be using the old abandoned Route 43 bridge which is already deteriorating and if it were to collapse could cause flooding in nearby homes. 

Guest said the company would provide a certificate of insurance that covers the Town. Individual residents whose property is affected would also receive a certificate of insurance specifying the company as liable, and there will be written location agreements specifying payment, restoration of property and protecting all parties. He said they had been working with NYSDOT and the State Police setting notifications and signage for road closures and planned detours and providing for placards for residents’ vehicles to ensure they have access to their homes. Guest explained that actual filming rarely lasts more than five minutes at a time and in between there is a lot of preparation and wait time, allowing for necessary traffic to move through the area. He said they did not know yet exactly where they will be parking all their work vehicles. They would like to use part of Williams Road, but they would be working with residents on that. They plan to use part of Old Route 43 by Stone Bridge Pond for a film scene but only the western end of it. The deteriorating bridge will not be used, and they would consider banning even foot traffic over it. 

Guest added that extras are closely supervised. The company wants filming to be accomplished quickly and efficiently, and they can’t have people wandering off the set. 

Regarding school buses and emergency vehicles, Guest said there will be an emergency lane of adequate width along the south side of Route 43. Radio communications from the State Police will enable them to know instantaneously when an emergency vehicle is coming through. Arrangements will be made for volunteer firemen responding to a call in their own cars to enable them to get through any restricted area quickly. 

Guest noted that all the people on the location crew are New Yorkers and they want to make this a positive experience for the Town. They have been and will be working with the Governor’s Motion Picture Office, taking advantage of tax incentives for filming in upstate New York, and they want that office to know they have done a good job, cleaned up after themselves and left everything as they found it. They have been buying everything they possibly can locally. He said the company would be willing to make donations to Town organizations. Although one resident kept pressing for specifics on this – to whom, when, how much – Guest said they would be working with the Town Board on that so organizations seeking donations should talk to the Town Supervisor. 

The Board passed a resolution giving its approval to the filming “contingent upon all permit approvals from the State of New York and the County of Rensselaer.” Councilman Larry Eckhardt was appointed liaison between Town residents and the production company. Sherman accepted responsibility as the “point man” to oversee that all agreements are carried out satisfactorily.

A Blast From The Past

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The Aluminum Overcast, a B-17G Flying Fortress, restored in the colors of the 398th Bomb Group, is based at the EAA AirVenture Museum in Oshkosh, WI.
The Aluminum Overcast, a B-17G Flying Fortress, restored in the colors of the 398th Bomb Group, is based at the EAA AirVenture Museum in Oshkosh, WI.

by Bea Peterson

When Aaron Burdick of North Hoosick, received the flyer from the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) offering tours of a WW II B-17 Flying Fortress that would be stopping at the Schenectady, NY, Airport, he knew he had to go see it. Burdick was too young to have flown one in the big war, but he did fly one in the late 60s that was converted to a crop duster.  

The EAA has completely restored a Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress, Army Air Corps serial number 44-85740 and called it the Aluminum Overcast. From 1935 to 1945, 12,732 B-17s were built. Today about a dozen are still flying. The EAA is taking their plane across the country, stopping at airports and offering WW II veterans and aviation buffs an opportunity to tour the giant plane or take a short flight in it. Burdick just wanted to see it. 

He has a lifelong love of flying. “I’ve always enjoyed aviation,” he said. As a kid, living in Petersburgh, he built model planes. As a Boy Scout he joined an Aviation Explorer Post. At 16 he had his pilot’s license. After a stint in the Air Force as a truck mechanic he was a commercial pilot out of Round Lake and then North Adams, MA. He also did charter flights out of Bennington, VT. “Back in ’62 a flight cost $13 an hour,” he said. He would do crop dusting in Florida in the summer. 

After WW II more than 7,000 retired Army bombers, fighters and training planes were left standing row to row at the old Kingman Army Airfield five miles east of Kingman, Arizona. It was the world’s greatest concentration of aircraft in one area at one time, covering five square miles. The planes were sold. B-17s sold for $13,750 apiece. In 1968, Burdick got to fly a B-17 that was converted to a crop duster. “That plane could spray a 120 foot swath,” he said. He worked with the US Department of Agriculture on a fire ant eradication program. There were reports of people eaten by those ants, he said. They couldn’t use a fast acting poison on them. “If the ants saw another ant die from something it ate, they wouldn’t eat it. The USDA used ground up corn cobs treated with a slow acting poison, which worked. In the south he flew Fire Patrols from January 1 to April 15. “After that the watermelons, peanuts and soybeans came in,” and it was crop dusting until August. Then he was off from August to January. For years now he has spent time between North Hoosick and Florida.

Then, on August 12, he and Joyce Glaspell went to Schenectady to see that B-17. Burdick, an EAA member, told the crew of his crop dusting experience with the same model plane. They invited him to join them on their flight the following day to their next destination, Lawrence, MA. Three other people were taking the flight and they were driving a rental car back to Schenectady. Burdick couldn’t pass up an opportunity like that! On Wednesday, Joyce drove him to Schenectady for the flight. When one of the passengers didn’t show up, she was invited to fly with them. The flight was a little intimidating for her. “I didn’t know they had so many holes!” she said, referring to the gun sites. Burdick, who has a lifetime pilot’s license, hasn’t flown in several years. He said he got the thrill of a lifetime when they turned the controls of the B-17 over to him. He flew the aircraft for more than a half hour. “The plane has all new gauges and a GPS,” he said. “It’s much better than the old military gauges. “That GPS is really something! There’s a red line with a little plane on it. You just have to keep the plane on the line!” Burdick admits he loved the 20th century but he’s not geared for the 21st century. Seems like he stepped into it big time last week. 

Facts About The B-17

The B-17 was designed by Boeing. The EAA plane was delivered on May 18, 1945. The B-17 required a crew of 10. Pilot, Co-pilot, Navigator, Bombardier, Flight Engineer (top turret gunner), Radio Operator two Waist Gunners, Tail Gunner and Ball Turret Gunner.

The B-17G is powered by four 1,200 horsepower Wright Cyclone nine cylinder, radial, air-cooled type engines with a 16:9 gear ratio. The propellers are three-bladed Hamilton Standard propellers, 11 feet, 7 inches in diameter.

Empty, the plane weighs 34,000 lbs. Wartime gross weight was 65,500 lbs. Fuel capacity is 1,700 gallons. The plane has a range of 1,850 but could be extended when equipped with “Tokyo Tanks” which provided a total capacity of 3,630 gallons of fuel.

The wing span is 103 feet, 9 inches. The length is 74 feet, 4 inches, The height is 19 feet, 1 inch. The service ceiling 35,600 feet.

The armament was thirteen Browning M-2 .50 caliber machine guns with a fire rate of approximately 13 rounds per second. No gun on a B-17 carried more than one minute’s supply of ammunition.

The bomb load depended on the types of bombs. Maximum normal load could go to 8,000 lbs. If a B-17 was fitted with special external racks, the maximum normal short range bomb load could go as high as 17,600 lbs.

Maximum speed is 300 m.p.h. at 30,000 ft. Maximum continuous speed is 263 m.p.h. at 25,000 ft. Cruising speed is 170 m.p.h.. Landing speed is 74 m.p.h.. Rate of Climb is 37 minutes to 20,000 ft.

231st Battle Of Bennington

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The cannon is fired during ceremonies at the Bennington Battlefield State Park last weekend commemorating the 231st anniversary of the Battle of Bennington. (Bea Peterson photo)
The cannon is fired during ceremonies at the Bennington Battlefield State Park last weekend commemorating the 231st anniversary of the Battle of Bennington. (Bea Peterson photo)

by Bea Peterson

Visitors had ample opportunities from morning to evening to relive history on Saturday, August 16, at the Bennington Battlefield and the Barnett Homestead. Members of the Walloomsac Battle Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Ondawa Cambridge Chapter of N.S.D.A.R. had their usual detailed display of Battle paintings and writings as well as handouts on the top of the hill at the Battlefield. Members of the 2nd Continental Regiment of Artillery, Al Bartlett and Jim Hilton, talked to visitors about the cannon and their soldier’s lives. Eric Snitzer described the life of a German soldier in this war. 

At the Barnett Homestead visitors talked with Joe Craig from the Saratoga National Historical Park who portrays a Revolutionary War surgeon. He described in detail the hardships of those times such as men waiting more than 24 hours for care of their wounds, unsanitary conditions and amputations. Rick Salazar of the Eastern Woodlands Alliance portrayed a Native American and described his campsite and weapons.

Phyllis Chapman of the Vintage Voices churned butter and cooked outdoors. Inside the house other members of the group described the battle and gave tours of the house.

Peter Schaaphok of the Brigade of the American Revolution portrayed General John Stark while he took visitors on tours of the actual battlefields.

In the evening people gathered at the Battlefield for the solemn cannon and musket salutes and placing of wreaths at the monument. Battlefield event coordinator and S.A.R. member John Sheaff said, “We are not here to glorify war but to commemorate this historic event and to remember the sacrifice made by so many over the years.” 

Bringing The Past To Life

As part of the evening program Peter Schaaphok read General Stark’s report of the Battle of Bennington and Paul Loding read a German surgeon’s report of the Battle and his capture. Ingrid Schaaphok opened a window to history in her composite portrayal of Emma Reuter and her compatriots. All her comments are copyrighted by the Brigade of the American Revolution. She began, “Welcome to you all! I am Mistress Emma Reuter from the town of Dutch Hoosick, a bit south of here. I am sure that you all have heard the news that a detachment of Germans, British Rangers and Indian Allies, under Colonel Baum, are headed this way to seize the stores at Bennington. To thwart the plans of General Burgoyne and his foreign minions, a call-to-arms has been raised. And yesterday, my husband set out with his militia company to join the fray. But I have just learned that he may have been wounded, and perhaps fallen into the hands of the enemy! As I have some knowledge of the physic, I most ardently wish to minister to him myself. My duty being clear, I have set out to find him.

While venturing on my unhappy quest, I have met many others swept up by these turbulent times – some performing their duty, others pursuing profit, and many the sad victims of circumstance. Today I would like, if I may, to introduce you to a few of the people I have met on my travels…

General John Stark hails from New Hampshire. He is a veteran of the French and Indian War where he served with Rogers’ Rangers. In the current conflict, he led his New Hampshire troops at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and then served for a time in the Continental Army. A talented and experienced officer, he has become disillusioned with Congressional politics, as inferior men were promoted to positions that by rights should have been his. 

He returned to civilian life, but with the approach of Burgoyne’s Army, the New Hampshire Council implored him to take command of their troops. He quickly helped raise an army of over 1,000 men, and marched to Manchester, Vermont. From there, he has proceeded to Bennington, and now he faces an historic confrontation with Colonel Baum at Walloomsac.

Like most common soldiers, Jack Culpepper was born to a very humble family. Raised without a proper trade, and unable to secure honest, steady work, his future looked bleak. But a chance encounter with a silver-tongued Recruiting Sergeant infused him with the prospect of glory, adventure and riches. He accepted the King’s shilling, and enlisted in His Majesty’s Army. The Crown has provided him with all the necessities of life: food, shelter, a fair wage and an honorable profession. 

Last May, Col. Frasier was directed to select the two best shots from each regiment and to form a “Company of Select Marksmen.” Culpepper’s extraordinary skill with a musket ensured that he would be one of Frasier’s Chosen Men, and he has served this unit with distinction in actions at Valcour Island, Ticonderoga and last month at Hubbardton. 

Like most soldiers of the Line, he wears a red woolen coat. The decorative tape you see surrounding his buttons is called “lace.” The lace is different for each regiment and serves as a means of identification. His woolen waistcoat and breeches (also called “small clothes”) he is required to pay for himself by means of so-called “stoppages” to his monthly wage. He carries a .72 Caliber smooth bore musket, affectionately known as a “Brown Bess.” As an experienced and well-trained soldier, Pvt. Culpepper is able to fire at the rate of three shots per minute. For close quarter action, he is equipped with a 10” long bayonet; when attached to the end of his musket, it is a formidable and lethal weapon.

Sgt. Hezakiah Cooke once owned a thriving farm and mill in Dutch Hoosick. For many years, the so-called “Green Mountain Boys” have tried to lay claim to his property, believing it to be part of the “Hampshire Grants.” But the Crown always sided with Mr. Cooke in these legal disputes. When the Rebellion broke out, and the King’s Legal Authority was overturned, the marauding Mountain Boys finally seized his land by force. Hezakiah had no recourse but to take up arms, and he joined Peters Corps of the Queen’s Loyal Rangers.

Sgt. Cooke wears his civilian clothes. Because their clothing is so varied, the members of his company have tucked a Continental bank note into the bands of their hats as a means of identifying themselves to each other.

For many years, Jonas Rudd had diligently worked his farm east of Bennington, land that had been deeded to his family under Gov. Wentworth’s New Hampshire Grants. But when the Crown declared the grants invalid, Rudd joined the Green Mountain Boys to fight for their claim to the lands. He has served in the militia for seven years now, and when the alarm was raised that Burgoyne intended to pilfer the stores at Bennington, Jonas eagerly took up his arms. His experience with irregular skirmishing, combined with his knowledge of the local area, will no doubt serve him well in the upcoming struggle against Baum and his detachment. 

Mr. Rudd wears the civilian clothes customary for militia men. He carries his own arms. His haversack contains food to sustain him while he is mustered away from home.

Charlotte Newcomb is the beloved only child of a prosperous merchant in Williamstown. Her father’s Tory leanings put him at odds with the so-called “Patriots.” The antagonism eventually erupted in a most tragic episode. One fateful night, an over-zealous group burned their fine home to the ground, and poor Mr. Newcomb perished in the conflagration! With no other family to take her in, the unfortunate girl has sought temporary refuge and protection with Peter’s Corps. She hopes to make her way to Canada, where other Loyal citizens have found safe haven. Though severely reduced in fortune and circumstance, Charlotte tries to maintain her genteel appearance…

Private Gottfried is a career soldier from Brunswick in the lower Saxony region of Germany. I have heard many people disparage these German troops, calling them mercenaries or soldiers of fortune. Yet in truth, an enlisted soldier like Pvt. Gottfried, merely serves his prince. Perhaps, it is the Duke of Brunswick, induced by political and financial motives to hire out his army to the British Forces, who might more accurately be called “a mercenary.” 

Pvt. Gottfried is immediately recognizable as a German soldier by his blue wool regimental, his long hair wrapped in a queue and the full-gaitered trousers covering his legs. He carries a “tournister,” a unique kind of pack, which contains spare clothing, bedding and what few effects he might own.

His Brown Bess musket was issued to him by the British army. And German infantry is armed with swords, a privilege afforded only officers in the British and American armies. These intimidating troops truly inspire awe.

Many Flags is a Native ally attached to the company of Select Marksmen. He is a Cahn-ah-wah-gah Mohawk from Trois Rivieres near Montreal, a cousin to the tribes of the Mohawk River Valley. 

Unused to open field fighting, most of his native brethren have fled back to their homes following the engagement at Hubbardton. But Many Flags is a man of his word and has stayed on, serving as a Guide and Scout.

100 years of association with Europeans is reflected in Many Flags’ clothing. He wears his hair long, not shaven, and he has donned a European-style shirt. His sash indicates his rank. He does sport the leggings and breechclout of his people, and around his neck are “war trophies,” including a French gorget given to him by his father who fought in the Seven Years War. He also carries his father’s French fusil musket. 

“I hope you have enjoyed meeting some of the men and women caught up in these momentous events,” Emma Reuter concluded.  “Indeed, there are many such fascinating characters here today, and I heartily encourage you all to make their acquaintance. 

Oh, yes! If there is any among you who can oblige me with information regarding my unfortunate husband, I shall forever remain your most humble and grateful servant …”

Stephentown Town Board Action – Uniforms Resolved

By

by David Flint

At its meeting on Monday, September 18, the Stephentown Town Board decided to scrap contracts with uniform companies in favor of providing a stipend of $800 a year for each Highway Department employee for the purchase and maintenance of his own work clothing. After it was pointed out several months ago that bills paid to a uniform company appeared to be excessive, Town Supervisor Tom Sherman opted to try a different company. He found, however, that when you add up all the extra charges, both companies were charging a similar amount. Highway Superintendent Neil Gardner provided figures after the meeting that showed the new company was actually charging more than the old one. In any case, Sherman said that either company would have the Town paying between $6,000 and $9,000 a year on uniforms, an amount he characterized as “ludicrous.” The stipend will not be included in an employee’s paycheck and will not be taxable. It will be put in the budget each year with consideration for inflation. 

Stephentown Seniors 40th Anniversary

The Stephentown Seniors have expended all but $545 of the $13,000 provided in the Town budget to subsidize their trips. The Board passed a resolution approving the usage of the remaining $545 toward the Seniors’ 40th Anniversary Party to be celebrated on September 27. 

Purchase Order System

The Board continued its discussion about instituting a purchase order system. The system would use a pre-numbered form in triplicate, with each department having its own identifying letter. Sherman said it would enable him to have real time access to information on outstanding invoices, fixed assets and the amortization schedule for insurance purposes. Invoices would be matched with purchase orders and vouchers. Councilman Larry Eckhardt agreed, saying it would provide excellent checks and balances. Councilman PJ Roder said that the Board would first have to thoroughly revisit the Procurement Policy of 1993 before adopting a purchase order system.

Roads Evaluation And Equipment Inventory

Sherman commended Councilman Mark Prescott for the excellent job that he and Highway Superintendent Gardner did on the evaluation of all Town roads. The evaluation specifies the work that is needed on each of the roads and will be most useful in seeking grant money.

Sherman reported that the inventory of Highway Department equipment has also been completed and is available at the Town Clerk’s office. 

Beds At The 

Transfer Station

Councilman Roder advised that two concrete beds are needed at the Transfer Station for roll-off dumpsters. The Board passed a resolution authorizing the Town Clerk to advertise for bids to construct two 10’ by 24’ slabs six inches thick. The bids will be due on September 12. 

Hazardous Waste Day

Sherman announced that ERCSWMA’s fall Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will be held on Saturday, September 20, at the Nassau Village Hall from 9 am to noon.  Persons bringing items should call ahead (686-7540) or register online (www.ercswma.org) to let ERCSWMA know what they are bringing. 

Nora Way To Become Town Road

Sherman reported that the Board now has all of the deeds and other documents necessary to start the process for the Town to take over ownership of Nora Way in North Stephentown. He expected that might be accomplished by October. 

Dog Control

Mark Prescott read Dog Control Officer Lynn Burns’ report. There were 4 calls received in the month, 3 dogs running free, 1 ticket issued and 3 new licenses. One report of abuse was handled by consultation with the owner. 

Trash And Speeding On Newton Road

Jeannette Roberts complained to the Board that garbage and refuse has been strewn all along Newton Road, either from people losing bags on their way to the Transfer Station or willfully dumping their trash, including in one instance a couch, along the roadside. She also complained of people speeding and passing dangerously on the narrow road. Sherman said he would speak with the State Police about it. 

Cemetery Needs Help

Elizabeth Hanlon, Secretary and Treasurer of the Garfield Cemetery Association, reported that the Association needs help because they are no longer able to properly maintain the cemetery from proceeds from their investments and plot holder fees. Supervisor Sherman and Councilman Eckhardt responded that although the Board does not currently budget any money for cemeteries, they recognize that Town cemeteries are an important part of our heritage and older cemeteries no longer have income from sales of plots. They said they would entertain a request for assistance submitted as part of the budget process which begins September 1.  Any such requests should be supported by solid figures regarding the need. 

Town Park

Councilman Prescott reported that work on restoring the landscaping at the Town Park at the intersection of Routes 22 and 43 is progressing. He expressed gratitude to Hankle Lumber of Hoags Corners for donating five yards of mulch to help with the project. 

Deposits & Spending

The Town Clerk reported she had turned over to the Supervisor the sum of $718.68 for the month of July. The office of the State Comptroller has not yet provided the amount of the distribution from the Justice Court Fund for the month of July. The Transfer Station deposited a total of $4,894. 

The Board audited and approved claims in the amount of $21,135.24 from the General Account and $24,650.59 from the Highway Account.

The Board set their next regular meeting for Monday, September 15, at 7:30 pm, to be preceded by a public hearing at 7 pm on a change in the local Dog Control law and another public hearing at 7:15 pm for a proposed local law on tax exemptions for Cold War veterans.

Berlin Town Board – “Mr. Snow, Tear Down That Building”

By

by Kieron Kramer

It was one of those unsettling moments when the greatest good for the greatest number comes in conflict with the rights of the individual and both sides are righteous. At the public hearing before the regular Berlin Town Board meeting on August 14, Ronald Snow launched into a lengthy diatribe in response to the Town’s order under the authority of the Town’s Unsafe Building Ordinance that he demolish the garage/utility building on his property at 3 North Main Street in the village. The Berlin Town Board, following the lead of Town Supervisor Robert Jaeger and Town Attorney Donald Tate, was adamant that the structure was dangerous and that the Town had followed the letter of the law in taking action. The Board’s decision at last month’s meeting to have the building demolished was based on a report sent to the Board by Code Enforcement Officer Allan Yerton. 

To say that Snow was beside himself would be an understatement. Since Snow lives in East Arlington, Vermont, the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department acted as the process server. “I have never been so disgraced as when the Sheriff pulled into my yard in front of my family and friends,” he said. He said the whole affair had almost caused him a heart attack. “I have the feeling I’m not the best liked person [in Berlin],” he added at the end of the hearing. According to Town Clerk Anne Maxon, Snow owns four buildings in the village and all are rental properties. “Nobody knows who he is and wouldn’t recognize him if he walked down the street,” she said. However, Snow did recognize Code Enforcement Officer Allen Yerton when Yerton commented, “You have continued to let the building run down.” Snow remembered Yerton as having hit the corner of one of his buildings with a snow plow in the distant past.

Snow, who is 68 years old, characterized himself as a man who “can barely read and write and who is just trying to be a decent person.” He claimed that he was “economically hard pressed.” He said the building is 200 years old, is safe and can be rehabilitated even though “it looks like the dickens.” “Will the Board be satisfied if I board the building up?” he asked. His plan now is to secure the building and rehabilitate it in the future. “I need a break; I’ve paid my dues,” he added. Snow claimed that over the years he had paid Berlin $250,000 in property taxes and that he always paid on time. Town Clerk Anne Maxon verified that Snow had always paid his taxes on time.

When Board Member Carl Greene asked Snow about a time frame for securing and rehabilitating the building, Snow said he would secure it within 25 days, but he was non-committal about when the renovations might start. “I’ll secure it; I’m no bird off the street,” he said. Town Attorney Tate told Snow that the law requires that he come with “some measure of proof” like an engineer’s report. “The order does not say boarding up [is acceptable],” Tate said. There is little leeway for time, he added, and he suggested that Snow get an attorney. Snow has until August 24 to demolish the building or the Town can have it done and charge him back on his tax bill. Later, in the regular meeting, the Board agreed to put the demolition of the building out to bid at the next board meeting if Snow has not followed the order. 

The Board’s resolve was hardened by the receipt before the hearing of a copy of a letter written to Snow in July of 2003 by the previous Code Enforcement Officer,  Dean Herrick, in which many of the same deficiencies were noted. The copy was provided by a “neighbor.” Obviously, no action was taken by the Town in the intervening five years and neither Town Clerk Anne Maxon nor Supervisor Jaeger knew of any notifications having been sent to Snow in the interim regarding the structure. So it’s not surprising that Snow thinks “everything is out of proportion.” At one point in the meeting he said, “This letter has not appreciated me.” It seemed that no one appreciated any part of this business.

From Tearing Down To Building Up

“It cost us $7,000 to pacify the DOT (New York State Department of Transportation),” said Highway Superintendent Jim Winn. He was referring to the engineer’s letters and the work securing the abutments of the bridge on Southeast Hollow Road that was red-flagged by the DOT earlier this summer. The Berlin Highway Department has used six truckloads of rock as rip-rap around and out beyond the abutments to prevent further erosion there. Winn will send pictures of the abutment work to the DOT along with the letters so that the red-flags can be reduced to yellow. The load rating for the bridge is now 10 tons. It used to be 20 tons. The tests and letters were done by the engineering firm of Erdman Anthony & Associates of Troy for $2,700. They will also do the monitoring program of one inspection per calendar quarter until next spring, as required by the DOT, for $2,200. Berlin rented the County Excavator for $2,000 for two weeks to do the work at the Southeast Hollow bridge. A bridge on Lanphier Lane was fixed with three loads of rip-rap, too. It had been yellow flagged.

The Southeast Hollow Bridge will have to be replaced. The project is planned for the spring. Winn wants to replace it with an arch culvert with backfill like the one on East Hollow Road in Petersburgh. He wants the culvert to be 20 feet wide so it can avoid inspection by the DOT, but it will have to be higher to get the same volume of water through it, he said. All work in rivers, creeks and streams is complicated further by the fact that NYS DEC now requires each entrance into the  water to have a permit. In the past municipalities signed a memorandum of understanding that they would notify the DEC of any project that required going into a waterway. The Town did not get a permit to put rip-rap around the abutments of either bridge worked on this month.

Winn said he had no numbers on what the bridge replacement would cost but he thinks it will be less than the $70,000 to $100,000 that the Town Board has been bracing itself for. He said he would call to get a ballpark figure on the concrete that would be needed for the project.

The bridge emergency and the significant rise in fuel costs which has a ripple effect in most material used by the highway department has already stripped away any cushion that was put into the Highway Department budget for this year. Carl Greene, a member of the Highway Committee of the Board, has already turned his attention to next year’s budget with these concerns in mind. He asked for an estimate of sand and stone needed for next year. Berlin has 48 miles of roads, 15 of which are blacktopped or chip-sealed. The other 33 are dirt. Winn estimated that the Town uses about four thousand yards of gravel to maintain the dirt roads. He estimated that the Town uses 2,500 yards of sand. Winn has 400 yards stored. He has 100 yards of stone stored and salt will be purchased under State bid. Winn said that the high price of fuel will result in less activity from the highway departments in the area. “There will be lots of unhappy people because everyone won’t be out putting down material like they used to,” he said. “The State and County won’t be out plowing bare roads and putting down sand and salt like they used to.” He said the County bid on sand might go as high as $7.82 a ton. Blacktop that cost $42 a ton in March now costs $72. The increased prices have used up the increases in CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and  Highway Improvement Program) money given out this year.

On the income side, the Highway Department has some surplus equipment to sell. Winn suggested that the two sanders and the Gradall be taken to the junk yard. Nassau got $4,400 for an item like the Gradall which was higher than the bid they received, he said. Greene suggested that  the one ton truck and the loader, which has a two yard bucket, be put out to bid. Board Member George Shuhart suggested that the bulldozer also be put out to bid. These items can all be sent to scrap if the bids aren’t high enough, he said. Winn said the bulldozer was “from the landfill when I was a kid.” Shuhart  corrected him. This one was bought by John Adams (not the revolutionary), he said. Someone quipped that the price of junk is coming down.

Sidewalk Proposal Accepted

Board Member Jim Saunders, with Ivan Wager’s help, solicited two proposals for the 177 linear feet of sidewalk repair at the corner of Elm Street and Community Avenue near Hewitt’s Market. CWG Excavating of Berlin bid $9,200, and Keystone Contracting of Petersburgh bid $9,000. Berlin will remove the old sidewalk, put down fill and have material on hand in case more fill is needed. This cost is within the budgeted amount so the Board voted to accept the bid of CWG because it is local. The Board also authorized the down payment of one third the cost contingent on a certificate of insurance being provided.

Goodermote Receives Cat Calls

Dog Control Officer Doug Goodermote announced, “I’m just dog control; I can’t help it if your horse won’t eat or if the deer are eating the tops of your flowers.” He said that one lady had called him “all upset because turkeys are eating her tomatoes.” Jaeger suggested that she call back in November. 

Goodermote said he had gone up to Bucks Corners on an abandoned dog call and “it was a very bad scene up there – there is one building that should be condemned. They have no heat and the refrigerator is on the porch.” A nice, little dog at the south end of town was travelling around annoying people, but the owner surrendered the dog. Goodermote said he gets all kinds of cat calls, but the Humane Society is full so he has no place to take them. He now has to call ahead to bring a dog in. A rabies clinic was scheduled for October.

Other Business

ź Allen Yerton announced that he is now required to do safety inspections on apartment buildings and that places of public assembly have to be inspected, too.

ź Jaeger said that the County has announced that the Town of Berlin can’t stamp sub-division plats because the Town has no sub-division law. “Even Petersburgh has a sub-division law,” said Jaeger. Tate will look into developing one. 

ź Board Member Sheila Hewitt announced that the Comprehensive Plan survey indicated that people want Berlin to remain a rural community and many want cell phone service.

ź Tammy Osterhout reported for the Youth Commission that Todd and Sheila Hewitt donated a stove to be used in the Watipi Building, the Morse family donated a moveable basketball hoop and Pam Gerstel donated art supplies. The recreation program was attended by 10 to 25 kids per day. The swim program started August 11 with 50 kids enrolled. The summer program will not take part in the County lunch program next year because the kids didn’t like the food. An all day trip to the Schaghticoke Fair will be chaperoned by Kathy Burdick. Since the budget allows only $700 for this, only the first 40 kids can be provided with tickets since they cost $18 each. The kids made colorful bookmarks for the Town Board members.

ź The Little Hoosic Watershed Association had its annual meeting. Dues should be sent to the new Treasurer, Stanton Goodermote. Carl Schwartz of  the Fish and Wildlife Service will do a comprehensive study of the watershed.

ź A letter was received from the DOT notifying the Town that the Hammersmith mine in Cherry Plain had applied for expansion from 9.84 acres to 16.74 acres. The Town has 30 days from the receipt of the letter to comment. The Board had no comment.

ź Jim Winn received a certified letter regarding the Tanner Mine on Airport Road. It noted that some gullies caused by erosion might increase but the mine will be considered fully reclaimed  if a letter is received from the landowner indicating that he is happy with the reclamation.

ź Sheila Hewitt reported that Shane Leonard, owner of the True Value Hardware property in Berlin was asking $225,000 for the property. The Town had considered it as a possible Town Park at last month’s meeting. Supervisor Jaeger thought the property had already been listed at $159,000. The Board voted unanimously not to pursue this further.

ź The Board voted unanimously to authorized the Supervisor to pay bills as they arrive, particularly ongoing bills like utilities bills and health insurance bills. The bills will appear on the abstract at the following meeting, but they will have been paid in a timely fashion.

ź The Board voted to nominate John Kanopka and Allen Yerton to the County Fire Advisory Board.

ź Carl Greene went to the Berlin Library reading program celebration and it reinforced in him the idea of “how important a vibrant library is to the Town.”

And There Was Light

Sheila Hewitt announced that Kent Goodermote reported that all 14 electric light poles in Town that had not been working are “shining bright.” Goodermote  rarely misses a meeting. Hewitt reported that he said he was sorry he couldn’t be here to say it himself.

Pedestrian Safety

The meeting closed with a discussion of pedestrian safety raised by Patty Baretsky. The County is repairing the bridge on Elm Street near the Bank of America and has blocked off one side of the bridge. They will finish the job next summer. The bridge is now dangerous to walk on because people at one end are parking their cars on the remaining sidewalk so that pedestrians have to walk into the traffic lane. Both Town Attorney Tate and Board Member Sheila Hewitt suggested people call the Sheriff’s Office and complain. “Get the Sheriff to write some tickets,” Tate said. Town Supervisor Robert Jaeger said he would call the Sheriff.

Petersburgh Board Approves Additional Spending On Veterans Hall Project

By

by Alex Brooks

At the Petersburgh Town Board meeting this week, Architect Dave Sadowsky gave an update on the progress of the Veterans Memorial Hall renovation project and proposed some additional capital improvement projects to be undertaken this year.

The roofing project is completed. Interior renovations are in progress now. Sadowsky estimates that the work is about 65% complete.

The roofing work came to about $50,600. The General construction contract is for $105,875, the heating/AC work is $15,500 and architectural fees will be about $16,190, which all adds up to $188,186 spent to date.

Sadowsky proposed $33,300 worth of additional work, including exterior painting for $3,500-$5,500, floor refinishing for $9,600, 12” additional attic insulation for $10,000, replacement of a broken “actuated damper” for $3,500, lighting for the Observation Post for $2,500 and some additional carpentry work around the building for $2,200. Some of these figures are just preliminary estimates and may not be accurate.

Funding for this work would be available from $11,800 that is not yet spoken for of the original $200,000 bonding and an additional $50,000 from a grant from Senator Bruno, announced a few months ago. The Board approved going forward with this work by a unanimous vote of the three Board members present – Supervisor Hubbard and Councilpersons Richard Snyder and Amy Manchester.  Bill Seel, who last month said he would like to see the Bruno grant used towards the existing scope of work rather than for additional projects, arrived later in the meeting. Councilman Broadwell was not present at this meeting.

Susan Nelsen, President of the Petersburgh Veterans Memorial Community Center, presented the Board with PVMCC’s budget projections for 2009 and made two requests for funding from the Town.

The PVMCC’s expenses include $1,050 for Director’s Liability insurance, $2,300 for janitorial services, $1,350 for supplies, $540 for Scheduling Coordinator and about $7,500 for utilities, for a total of $12,740. Utilities include $500 for phone, $500 for water, $1,500 for electricity, and $5,000 for heating oil. Estimated income based on 2007 income was $13,500.

Nelsen conveyed the request of the PVMCC for assistance with the fuel bill.

Nelsen also made a budget request for $2,200 additional in the Youth Commission budget to cover youth programming other than the summer program. She noted that in the past the Youth Commission sponsored activities all year round but now does only the summer program because the cost of the summer program has gone up and now consumes the entire budget.  The request for additional funding was broken out in this way: Teen Night Program Director, 12 programs, 5 hours at $15/hr for $900, plus 10 school vacation programs, 5 hours at $15/hr for $750 and 40 hours of Program Administration, doing paperwork and writing grant proposals, raising the possibility that some or all of this cost might be paid by grant awards. The Board agreed to take these requests under advisement when they start putting together the budget for next year, about a month from now.

Nelsen also again asked the Board to pay the PVMCC’s voucher for rental of the Memorial Hall this year. This voucher is for a total of $1,400, $1,000 for the summer youth program and $400 for the seniors.  Because this money was budgeted for this year and the Town has been paying it for a long time, the Board voted to go ahead and pay it at this meeting.  Bill Seel had not yet arrived when this vote was taken, and when he learned of it at the end of the meeting, he said he objects to it. Said Seel, “I am strongly opposed to paying rent on a building we own. It’s not right.”

New Ambulance

Brandon deWaal and Adam Griswold spoke to the Board about their research into getting a new ambulance for Rescue Squad.  They had received bids from several companies offering to supply a new ambulance, ranging in price from about $132,000 to $155,000. DeWaal said the Ambulance Squad’s Board is requesting that the Town give them a 5 year service agreement paying them $20,000 per year, for a total of $100,000. The Rescue Squad would pay the rest from its own funds.  The last time the Town assisted the Squad to buy the current ambulance in 1993, they paid $15,000 per year for 5 years through the service agreement.  Squad members began a discussion with Town Attorney Kevin Engel about getting a service agreement written and what should be in it. Both Engel and members of the Ambulance Squad agreed to do research on how other squads had done service agreements in the past, and the Board agreed to consider the Squad’s request while they put together the 2009 budget next month.

The Board went into executive session for about half an hour to discuss “a personnel matter.”

When they returned, Pam Eggsware asked what the Town is going to do about the “shirt factory” or the “dress factory” in the mill yard. She said the roof gave in on the back addition and that whole section of the building “collapsed the other day.” She said the building is not stable and kids have been in it.

Supervisor Mason Hubbard said the building was condemned a long time ago, but they couldn’t find the owner. He said he agrees that it is a dangerous situation, but he is not sure what the Town should do about it.

Eggsware said it’s been like this for three months, and she wanted to know who’s responsible.

Town Attorney Kevin Engel said it may be appropriate for the Town to take some action  regarding this building, but he would like to look into it and learn more about it.

Eggsware also said again that she would like to know what she can do with her property at the bottom of Main Street. Hubbard said the Building Inspector holds office hours at the Town Hall every Saturday morning from 9 am to noon and she should go talk to him on Saturday. She said she will.

Highway

Highway Superintendent Ray Harrison said “every road in Town is washing out about as fast as we can fix it.” He said he has had major washouts of Puckertoot Road, Hill Hollow Road and Lewis Hollow Road in the recent heavy rains. Hill Hollow has washed out several times. He said they will just have to keep at it until they get all the roads back in shape.