Copake Sign Ordinance

Does the Copake sign ordinance require that "out of use" signs be removed? I believe there is such a requirement for temporary signs such as political campaign signs. But what about businesses that go bust? The restaurant on Route 22 just north Copake Falls was last in business briefly around the start of 2009. Its signs are still up promising a great breakfast deal. Random Harvest is long gone, but its signs still advertise organic produce. No doubt there are other examples, including empty stores in the center of Copake. Shouldn't these signs be removed when there is no viable business? They are unsightly and they emphasize to passers-by that Copake is full of failed enterprises. Not the message we want to send, I'm sure.


Dale Peterson

Brilliance of the Annual Light Parade of Copake

Dear Editor, I just wanted to share with our community how heartwarming it was to see so many neighbors come together and share in the brilliance of the Annual Light Parade of Copake on such a frigid Saturday night. We purposely come out of our warm, comfy homes knowing how cold it is to partake in the festivities and join in the good will we feel when surrounded by our neighbors and family. Truly a beautiful picture of how community organizations and individuals come together for the betterment of all. A theme that can be replicated all year long if we allow it.


Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Everyone.
Joan Spencer

Anger of Party Chairs Ironic

To the party chairs clamoring for Baer's removal and

demanding an end to autocratic, secret back-room deals, I
have to ask: You're angry...NOW?

For years you have supported the very policies and behavior
that you are demanding to have end, but NOW you're angry.

Forgive me for pointing this out, but the absurd irony of this
statement is surpassed only by the logic of giving tax breaks
to the wealthy--increasing the national debt to unprecedented
levels--in exchange for extending benefits for the long-term
unemployed.

So now, after years of not only failing to protect the citizens
from this destructive, self-interested behavior, we have a
declaration from some of Baer's former cheerleaders that it
must come to an end.

Makes me wonder if one of the writers found themselves on
the receiving end of Baer's "autocratic and secretive"
managerial style and were otherwise "alienated, threatened
or dismissed".

You might be reminded that all of this occurred on your
watch, and was made possible by your active support, or at
the very least, tacit approval.

Just so that we all understand: The same individuals who
have a record of steadfast support for all of these misguided,
self-interested and financially devastating acts are now
leading the charge for open and transparent government.

And you expect us to take you seriously.

Rose Aulino
Copake