Public libraries essential part of having an educated population

Public libraries funded by tax money are an essential part of having an educated and literate population. The councilman may have priorities which may preclude his being in favor of libraries such as an uninformed electorate able to be more easily misled. Circulating libraries such as the one in Hillsdale provide not only books and other materials for general entertainment but also reference and research materials of current topics of interest. Is there perhaps something in the research stacks that of any of the candidates might prefer to be kept unread. - Anonymous

I don't want to meet or talk politics

So I am not a democrat or a republican, that makes me an independent. I am fine with that. But would really bothers me the past few weeks is the constant barrage of political interruptions at my house. Phone calls from candidates, having candidates brought to my house. Am I rude for not answering the door? Maybe. But after working all day and need some time to relax, I don't want to meet or talk politics. Even on the weekend too..... I'll vote when I want to vote..if you have something leave it my mailbox.. I am fine with that. If I see a politician or a supporter coming, I will not answer the door or I will tell them don't want to talk politics... enough is enough....

as a matter of fact I am writing this, because someone was just pounding on my door...!!!

Mike Streeter

Is there a Petition to De-fund the Library?

Although no official word has been received from the Copake Town Board, I understand that Councilman Tompkins has initiated a petition to de-fund the library. This would be a tremendous disservice to the growing number of citizens of Copake – both young and old – who have increasingly taken advantage of the library’s wonderful resources in these difficult times. It is particularly unfortunate that Councilman Tompkins would make such a proposal at a time when a new state-of-the-art library is under construction – in Copake. Most municipalities celebrate their libraries and recognize their critically important role in the community, and I hope that the Town of Copake will continue its partnership with Hillsdale and Ancram in keeping our wonderful library alive.

In 1994, the voters of Copake overwhelmingly voted to fix the town’s contribution to the Roe-Jan Library at $37,500, matching, in per capita terms, the amount paid by taxpayers in Hillsdale. Despite rising costs, that amount has remained constant for five years. It amounts to just over $6.50 per $100,000 of assessed valuation, or $12 per parcel, a little more than a quarter of what we pay for our police force, and less than we pay for the salaries of the town board and its accountant(s).

Thanks to our many volunteers and private donors, the Roeliff-Jansen Community Library is one of the least costly within the sixty-six libraries in the mid-Hudson area, yet it ranks very high in cardholders and circulation. Last month alone, more than 2000 people visited our cramped old library in Hillsdale.

In hard times such as these, the library grows in importance as a resource for job seekers and those who can no longer afford their own internet services, movies and books. It would be tragic if—just as we are nearing completion of our new building in Copake—we would be forced to drastically cut our operating hours and services.

Mr. Tompkins and his family may not the library, but I would hope that he and other members of the council appreciate its importance to those who do. It has been a long time since I have used a town playground—an item that receives the same tax levy contribution as the library in the budget-- but I recognize its value to those who do and would hate to see our play areas eliminated. I would urge the councilman and his colleagues to accord the same respect to those who value computers and books. Mr. Tompkins petition is unwise and almost certainly illegal for reasons I would have been happy to explain had he accorded us the courtesy of asking our advice.

Ned Schneier

The Task Force has Failed with their Assignment.

Zoning Board of Appeals Town of Copake 230 Mountain View Road Copake NY 12529 September 1, 2009 Attention: Supervisor Crowley and Members of the Town Board; We, The Zoning Board of Appeals, upon the request of the Town Board, have reviewed the proposed changes to Chapter 156; Junkyards and Motor Vehicle Storage Areas. In our opinion, the Task Force has failed with their assignment. Our Town is changing, the times are changing. We want these business' to remain in Copake, but there is a need for them to" clean up their act", and take some pride in their business'. This street of mixed use, residential and business is the southern entrance of the town. First impressions are made here, how do we want to portray our town? Clearly the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has issued these business' a license. It clarifies whether they are a repair, dismantler, dealer, or a combination, with clear and precise rules as to what they are and are not allowed to do. However, the question remains, What exactly are they licensed to do, and are they in compliance with the licenses that have been issued? Furthermore, the proposed changes are far too vague, they need to be more specific. The issue has been "white-washed or swept under the carpet" and will be impossible to enforce since there is no structure, with far too many loop holes. Safety, environmental issues, noise, pollution, and fire codes have not been addressed. Many residents within the town have expressed concerns of the ground water issues, imagine what 60 cars to the first acre, not to exceed 200 for the additional acreage will do to the ground water, keeping in mind the stream and wetlands that surround some of these areas. Why would we allow vehicles for repair to be placed with vehicles for sale? Is it not an eye sore as well as a safety issue to allow a car with no tires and on blocks or one with no fenders to remain in the front. Will a four foot space between rows of stored vehicles be ample to allow a fire truck or emergency vehicles access in case of a fire, spill, or accident? Why would we change the fencing requirement setbacks from 300 feet to 50 feet? Who will reap the benefit here, the residential neighboring property? Imagine their air quality, will trees screen the fumes as well? We do not endorse the proposed changes to Chapter 156, of the Town Law, and we recommend that the Task Force be returned to complete the task to which they were assigned. In addition, it is recommended that prior to writing out any proposed future changes that they meet with the Planning Board and The Zoning Board of Appeals and at least hear their recommendations, as well as input from the Zoning Enforcement Officer, The Building Inspector, The Fire Chief, DEC, and any other pertinent party. Most Sincerely, The Board Members of The Zoning Board of Appeals

Planning Board advises the Town Board against the enactment of Local Law 3

September 8, 2009 Memo To: The Copake Town Board Re: Chapter 156 Junkyard and Motor Vehicle Storage Areas Local Law 3, 2009 From: Copake Planning Board The Copake Planning Board advises the Town Board against the enactment of Local Law 3, 2009 for the reasons listed below: The Planning Board reviewed Chapter 156 Code Town of Copake; the proposed Local Law No.3, 2009; excerpts from General Municipal Law 136 that may apply in Copake; the December 23, 2008 recommendations by Copake ZEO, Ed Ferratto. We recommend that the entire Chapter 156 be reviewed and revised by a Land Use Attorney considering the recommendations made by /I The Copake Motor Vehicle Storage Task Force," the State Laws and the recommendations made by the ZEO and the Planning Board. Examples of suggestions for revisions: Chapter 156-2 Definitions. Junkyards are not allowed in Copake. All references to them should be removed. Does the definition exist to clarify exactly what a junkyard is? If so, it should better defined. Motor Vehicle Storage Areas should be better defined and divided into definitions for businesses and personal use. Chapter 156 -3 A. According to Copake Zoning Laws, junkyards are not allowed in Copake. Chapter 156 - 3 B. Include requiring a Site Plan Review by the Planning Board (SPR is good for 3 years and then must be renewed.), or subject to a yearly special use permit issued by the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chapter 156 - 4. Application for a license. Include the completion of a Site Plan Review, or subject to a yearly special use permit issued by the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chapter 156 - 7. License fee. Should reconcile to current Building/Planning/Zoning fees and be increased to at least $100 or allocated per stored vehicle. Chapter 156 - 8. Fencing. Screening and other environmental impacts would be included in Site Plan Review. Chapter 232 Zoning- Table of Use Attachment 2:2. Add footnote''B" Requires Site Plan Permit to fI Auto Repair, car wash" under Business Uses in zones B-1, B-2, and 1-1. OR Chapter 232 Zoning - Table of Use Attachment 2:2. Change the P to X in the B-2 and I-I Zones under fI Auto Repairs, car wash" under Business Uses.

Copake History and Big Thunder Day

I liked your suggestion about something to do in the center of Copake. I have often thought it might be fun to do a reenactment of what happened in 1844 at what was then Sweets Tavern when papers were taken from Sheriff Miller and burned in the Square. It was all part of the Anti-Rent War and is included in by book. The day should be remembered by a state marker as well. While the event took place in December, a warmer month would be better for the reenactment. I am enclosing a copy of a open letter I sent to the Historical Society concerning the History on the Copake web site. It was mailed yesterday and I expect it will not be read until the next meeting Grant Dinehart Langdon August 26, 2009 Roeliff Jansen Historical Society P.O. Box 172 Copake Falls, N.Y. 12517 Dear Fellow Members. I remember going to one of the first meetings of the Roeliff Jansen Historical Society meeting when Ray Burch commented, “There must be something important around here, The place is so dam old.” Indeed Ray was right. The place is old and indeed something of importance did happen here. First, thanks to Ruth Piwonka the first leas on the great flat at Taconic on Livingston Manor was discovered. Ruth gave a copy of her notes to Eleanor Mettler who gave it to my mother, the town historian. It is positive proof of settlement in 1687. A second event was in the literature all along. I found it in the Documentary History of the State of New York, vol 3 published by Weed, Parsons & Co. in 1850. It provided copies of documents and letters about the border problems and the resulting conflict When I go into the history of Copake on the Copake web site I find a fine history of Copake written for the Independent by Eleanor based on what was then known about the history of Copake. In view of the new discoveries I feel it should be updated. I have written something I feel might be appropriately added to what is there. Sincerely, Grant Langdon

Thank you for the Time and Energy

Bob, As a long time resident of Copake I want to thank you for the time and energy in putting together the Copake Chronicle. I can’t imagine how many hours it takes you, but the results are terrific. I read each and every issue from cover to cover. Well, you don’t actually have covers, but you know what I mean. Your coverage of the town is superb and I wanted you to know I appreciate the effort. Ralph

Copake Falls Community Day Committee Thank You

To the Editor: As a resident of Copake Falls, I would like to thank the Copake Falls Community Day Committee for all their hard work in letting people know what a nice place this is to live. They cheerfully set about planning a wonderful day and making it happen, just for the fun of it. I think they were very successful in showing the natural beauty and history of our home and the artistic talent and good hearts of the people who live here. It may have been a rainy morning, but watching my busy and excited neighbors making things ready for others' enjoyment, I felt my spirits lift just as though the sun was shining anyway. Melissa Cockerham

Common Sense Makes me Questions why Copake Needs a Police Force.

First, I have to say that I am not keeping up with the Copake news as I would like to but my common sense makes me questions why Copake even needs a police force. We are spending so much money to keep a police force that is not needed. Why can't we give the Sheriffs Dept. an area in the town hall and have them patrol our area? We have more police vehicles than police on duty, again more money being wasted. On a positive note, I am glad to see that Copake has obtained a new accountant. Thank you again for your time spent writing the Chronicle. Patricia Phesay

MAN OVERBOARD *

MAN OVERBOARD * The waves crash down, the timbers creak, For the budget proposed is terribly bleak. Flowing red ink’s an imminent stain, and beyond that’s a case of eminent domain. The crew in its grief calls out for the chief— his absence in crisis sails beyond their belief. The mates call down to the cabin below, then knock on the door with a thunderous blow. They return in a stupor. There’s no sign of the Super. So they turn by themselves to the crisis financial, as he rests to prepare for the less consequential. He’s covered for this time—well, sorta— by filling his chair with his friend Joe LaPorta. The rest of the Board fill their own obligation, while their leader appears to be still on vacation. · Commentary by Mac Simms on the absence of Supervisor Reginald Crowley from the Copake Town Board meeting on August 13, 2009

A correction about the Dineharts

I just finished reading about the Dineharts...actually, I sent a bit of a correction. Olive Langdon wasn't a Dinehart. She was a Fisher. Grant Langdon was related to the Dineharts. Sook Langdon or Grant " Mike" Langdon would be able to give the proper lineage. They are Olive's sons. Judy

Just a little info on the Dinehart family

I have several photos of my parents and myself on the lawn of the Dinehart Farm in West Copake (by the metal bridge). We lived in a small apartment in the farm house there. Mr. and Mrs. Dinehart were very kind to me as I remember. I used to be fond of a little foot stool that Mr. Dinehart had by the hearth in the kitchen and he let me sit on it whenever I visited. These Dinehart’s would have been Olive Dinehart Langdon’s parents. I do not remember any children living there at the time so I assume they were adults. Just a little info on the Dinehart family. Carol Gansowski

Post Card of Edgewood

As soon as I saw the Post card of Edgewood I knew where it was...before reading your article about it. My family built a house on the "Shores" in 1960. I needed allergy shots weekly, so when we were in Copake for the summer we needed to find a Dr. to administer the shots. We were directed to the clinic in Hillsdale. It was located on Rt 22 just north of Rt. 23 on the left hand side. Is this the Clinic I went to? Thanks for the great web-zine? George Shaw

The Copake Town Clerk

More specifically, the town clerk. As a fairly new member of the community, 4 yrs (almost), I have had reason to seek out Vanna Hotaling for various reasons. Vanna has always been courteous and knowledgeable whenever I've had a question, and there have been many. She always makes me feel welcome in her office and as though mine was the most important situation she needed to deal with. We are lucky to have the staff in the town clerk's office. Susan McAvoy Taconic Shores

Opinion Changed on Housing Development

I really had no opinion on the housing developement but after reading the article in your Chronicle I'm thinking we don't need to get mixed up with this mess. If he can't pay his bills then what makes you think he will be able to finish the project. I don't think any body would like to see a half finished project sitting out were any one can see it. Just one more thing the town would have on their plate. Ruth Harvey

Three Views of Copake in our last issue

It was interesting to see the three views of Copake in your last issue. The General Store was built by my great grandfather, Grant D. Langdon in 1890 after he old store that had been moved from up main street burned. That building was the Methodist Church before it was moved to the corner. An account of the fire is in my book Scandal in the Courtroom.The building where the Drug store is was the livery for Miller House, which was owned by my great grandfather at one time too. His grandfather, John Langdon was Supervisor and had a town office in the building. My second book is now available and also includes some local history. It is Rebels of the North, How Land Policy Caused the Civil War. Both books are available at my web site, www.grantlangdon.com.

An Open Letter To All Interested Copake Taxpayers

An Open Letter To All Interested Copake Taxpayers An individual who I consider to be a friend, and who is a Republican candidate for the Copake Town Board, has voiced criticism of the Democratic minority members of the Copake Town Board for not following the Town Manual regarding audits of Town spending. I must remind him that he must get his facts correct if he wants to be critical. The Town Policy Manual was passed by the Democratic majority in 2007, and included a requirement regarding CPA audits of Town records. The first two opportunities to perform such audits were after the end of the 2007 and 2008 tax years in early 2008 and 2009, when the Republicans had the Board majority. If he is being critical, and rightly so, of the Board's inaction, it is the inaction of the Republican controlled Board that he is criticizing, the Board that he aspires to join. The Town Supervisor is responsible for following the Policy Manual with the consent of the Board. It is not up to one particular member of the minority to assure that the Policy Manual is followed. The problem now seems to be that there is a deficit because of the economy, but no one knows at this time just what that deficit is because the numbers reported are inconsistent. It is now necessary to go back and perform the audits that were required by the Town Policy Manual before we can learn what the impact of the deficit will be on our taxes next year. Morris Ordover

PUTTING THE TOWN FIRST

PUTTING THE TOWN FIRST

I would like to commend Linda Gabaccia and Bob Sacks on their effort to make a financial sacrifice, even though the rest of the board did not agree. These are the types of people we need on our town board.

The ideas that came from Bob and Linda and the rest of the people that attended the budget meeting were refreshing. To see people involved with such passion was a positive step forward. Missing from this meeting was our deputy supervisor Joe Laporta and Harvey Webber who are both running for our two town board seats in November. How they can miss this mandatory and critically important meeting when all departments had to be there is beyond me. If they think their ideas are not important enough for us to hear, then how can they say they are truly interested in Copake. Yes, it’s a tough time for the town. That’s when we need people to stand together not apart.

George Fillipovits

The Astors and Dineharts

Bob:

Fascinating article for me as my house is in West Copake just down the road from the Reformed Church and the churchyard where various Astors and Dineharts are buried.

Do you have any idea where "The Big House" was located and what became of it?

I am under the impression that "Suk" Langdon's mother was a Dinehart. However her farm was in Copake proper and his mid-way between Copake and West Copake.

Any light you can shed would be interesting to me.

Thanks

Leonard Ladin

Saving Money in the Present Budget Crisis

Saving Money in the Present Budget Crisis

Hearing one option to saving money in the present budget crisis is cutting the police budget. That causes me to think back to when Copake was protected by three part time constables. It also was covered by the County Sheriff and the State Police at that time. At one time the State Police stationed a policeman and a car in Copake. That work very well and was easy on the local budget. In earner times they had a mounted policeman that stabled his horse at my barn on Church Street. That barn burned in 1985, was arson and the Copake Police was named the lead agency in investigating that fire. They proved to be no help at all, and the arson investigation by the State never took place even though it was requested by the then Fire Chief, Dell Walton. It is up to the people of Copake to decide how they want to be policed, but it does need to be policed.

Grant langdon