Democrats Rising

Democrats Choose Didi Barrett for 103rd Assembly seat

2012-01-18T21:51:00.000-05:00

The Columbia County Democrats have chosen Didi Barrett of Millbrook to run for the open seat in the 103rd Assembly District seat vacated by Marcus Molinaro. Governor Andrew Cuomo has called for the special election to be held on Tuesday, March 20.

Towns in the 103rd AD in Columbia County include Ancram, Copake, Hillsdale, Hudson, Greenport, Claverack, Stockport, Ghent, Austerlitz and Canaan. Barrett ran in 2010 for the State Senate seat currently held by Steven Saland.

Barrett, who lives in Millbrook with her husband and two children, has been a leader in the Hudson Valley not-for-profit community for over two decades. She is a member of the Millbrook Education Foundation and helped launch the Dutchess Girls Collaborative. In addition, Didi Barrett is currently a board member of the Anderson Center for Autism Foundation and the North East Dutchess Community Fund.

Columbia County Democratic Party Chairwoman, Cyndy Hall said, “Didi Barrett will be an effective voice for good jobs and economic development for the people of our district. She will work hard to help middle class families who are struggling during this difficult economy. We are fortunate to have a strong candidate for the Assembly; someone who can work with both sides of the aisle to get things done.”

The 103rd AD also includes part of Dutchess County. Elisa Sumner, Chair of the Dutchess County Democrats said, “Didi has shown herself to be a leader in our community. Since running in 2010, she has continued her work helping non-profits and highlighting the contributions and challenges of local farmers. Her roots go back decades and we look forward to sending her to Albany to represent us.”

Barrett said she was honored by the nomination and touched by the outpouring of support of her candidacy. “I am committed to fighting for the people of Columbia and Dutchess Counties and to bringing the resources to our towns that will create good jobs, control taxes and bring relief from unfunded mandates. I will continue to be a passionate advocate for this beautiful region and help us realize the potential of our agriculture and natural resources as economic engines and job generators.”

“This is an important election for us here in Columbia County. I encourage everyone to get out and vote on March 20 and if you need to register to vote, do it today, said Hall.” The Board of Elections is located at 401 State Street in Hudson.

Koweek Wins Stunning Victory for Columbia County Judge

2011-11-10T02:53:00.001-05:00

County Judge-Elect Richard Koweek

Hudson City Judge Richard Koweek has won a stunning victory for Columbia County Judge on Tuesday. His opponent in the race was longtime District Attorney Beth Cozzolino who ran for County Judge rather than face a primary for District Attorney by former Judge Paul Czajka.

Judge Koweek won 11 of the 18 towns in the county and the City of Hudson. He did exceptionally well in Stockport, Hillsdale, Germantown and Austerlitz, Greenport and Hudson. His appeal was also quite strong in the traditionally Republican towns of Claverack and Livingston.

He was the only candidate in the race for Columbia County Judge rated as "Qualified" by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission for the Third District which Columbia County is a part of.

Congratulations to Judge Koweek for an excellent job well done!

2011 Election Returns for Columbia County

2011-11-10T02:04:00.001-05:00

These are the unofficial election returns countywide races in Columbia County as reported by Democratic Representatives at every poll site in every town in the county.

For breakdowns to the City or Town level, please click the link to your town at the top of the page.

Vote Row A - Vote Democratic

2011-11-05T16:11:00.002-04:00

The Columbia Paper has Endorsed Judge Richard Koweek for County Judge

2011-11-05T15:48:00.003-04:00

and its publisher Parry Teasdale
have endorsed
Judge Richard Koweek
for
Columbia County Judge

In the editorial endorsement, Mr. Teasdale says,

"Richard Koweek has demonstrated his ability to preside as a judge in a challenging courtroom. He knows the community. He has the approval of legal experts who understand what judges must know. He should be elected the next county judge."

Read the entire endorsement at The Columbia Paper

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has endorsed Lee Jamison for Stuyvesant Supervisor

2011-11-05T15:39:00.002-04:00

In announcing her endorsement, Senator Gillibrand had this to say;

“Lee Jamison is committed to the people and community of Stuyvesant,” Senator Gillibrand said. “I know that she will use her experience and leadership to work tirelessly to move Stuyvesant in the right direction during these fiscally difficult times. I encourage voters to support Lee on Election Day, Tuesday, November 8th.”

“I’m delighted to receive Senator Gillibrand’s support,” Lee said. “In Columbia County, the Town Supervisor also functions as a County Legislator. Currently, there are only 5 women Supervisors on the 23 member Columbia County Board of Supervisors. Senator Gillibrand has launched a vigorous awareness campaign to encourage women to "Get off the Sidelines." The Senator and I believe that the involvement of women will be critical to get our County and our Country out of the economic recession. Many local women are entrepreneurs, as integral parts of family small businesses and farms. Women excel at consensus building, hard work, problem-solving and multi-tasking. Most Columbia County women are well aware of the complex economic needs of balancing work and family, childcare and eldercare, prices at the gas pump and prices at the grocery store. We all know neighbors who have lost a home or who may have even taken in someone who lost a job. Women know that together we can put Columbia County's human and natural resources back to work for everyone.”

Senator Gillibrand Endoses Peter Bujanow for Kinderhook Town Board

2011-11-05T15:27:00.001-04:00

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has endorsed Councilman Peter Bujanow in his bid for re-election to the Kinderhook Town Board. Senator Gillibrand cited Bujanow’s advocacy for the people of the Town of Kinderhook as well as his commitment to fair and effective government.

“I am pleased to give my endorsement to Peter Bujanow in the race for Town Council in the Town of Kinderhook”, Gillibrand said. “Peter is a dedicated, competent and objective leader who is deeply involved in his community and interested in its overall welfare. Open and accessible government is crucial and I am enthused by Peter’s efforts to make Kinderhook’s Town Hall more transparent. I know that Peter will continue to advocate for the people of Kinderhook as Town Councilman and that is why I believe he is the best candidate for the job.”

“I share Senator Gillibrand’s strong commitment to fair and effective government, and I am deeply honored to receive her endorsement for re-election”, Bujanow said. “Senator Gillibrand is one of our nation’s most hardworking and effective senators and her record of public service is a model for all elected officials to emulate,” said Bujanow. “She understands that government needs to be sound, strong and work for the people it represents in these fiscally difficult times to create jobs, promote economic development and improve the quality of life for our residents."

About the endorsement Cyndy Hall, Columbia County Democratic Committee Chair said, "Senator Gillibrand’s endorsement of Peter Bujanow emphasizes that he is the most qualified and experienced candidate for Kinderhook Town Council. Mr. Bujanow will continue to be an outspoken and passionate leader working in the best interest of all residents of the Town of Kinderhook. We are honored that Senator Gillibrand has endorsed Councilman Bujanow and we thank the Senator for her support."

Peter Bujanow has served as a Kinderhook Town Councilman for a total of eleven years, from 1995 to 2001 and from 2008 to present. Among his many activities during his tenure on the Town Board, he was Deputy Town Supervisor from 2000 to 2001, and has chaired numerous Town Committees including Comprehensive Plan Implementation, Comprehensive Plan Review, Energy, Local Law and Code Review. In 2006, Councilman Bujanow also volunteered his time as Project Coordinator to manage the construction of the New Town Highway Garage Building.

Governor Cuomo Endorses Peter Stoll CPA for Columbia County Treasurer

2011-10-31T12:58:00.000-04:00

Governor Andrew Cuomo has endorsed Certified Public Accountant, Peter Stoll for Columbia County Treasurer.

Governor Cuomo stated,

"Peter Stoll has the qualifications, experience and expertise to lead Columbia County's finances in these tough economic times. We have serious issues that need to be addressed by a seasoned professional with Peter's background. Having a financial professional in the Treasurer's office is crucial for Columbia County's fiscal stability and economic integrity."

Peter Stoll had this to say,

"I am truly honored to have Governor Cuomo's support and I look forward to working with the Governor and with all levels of government while I modernize and bring transparency to Columbia County's accounting practices. My long career and responsibilities as a CPA provide me with the expertise and financial tools to be Columbia County's treasurer."

About the endorsement Cyndy Hall, Columbia County Democratic Committee Chair said,

"Having Governor Cuomo's endorsement emphasizes what we have been saying all along, Peter Stoll, CPA is the most qualified and experienced candidate for County Treasurer. He will put his skills to work for the benefit of our residents and help reduce the cost of managing County government. We are thrilled and honored that Governor Cuomo has endorsed him and we thank the Governor for his support."

Senator Gillibrand Endorses Nick Haddad for Mayor in the City of Hudson

2011-10-31T11:44:00.001-04:00

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand who until recently made her home on Mt Merino in Greenport just outside Hudson, has endorsed Democratic and Working Families Candidate Nick Haddad to be Hudson's next Mayor.

About the endorsement, Senator Gillibrand had this to say,

"Hudson needs a Mayor who has the business experience and management skills to attract new business, foster and expand the businesses that exist today and to develop Hudson's greatest asset, its waterfront. Nick Haddad has just those skills. Nick will build upon Hudson's strengths and get Hudson back to work. I look forward to working with Nick as Hudson's next Mayor."

After receiving word of the Senator's endorsement Nick Haddad said

“Having lived here Senator Gillibrand really knows Hudson, she understands our city and what it needs to reach its full potential. So I am humbled and honored to receive her endorsement."

Reacting to the endorsement, Hudson City Democratic Committee Chair Victor Mendolia commented,

"We are so proud of Senator Gillibrand and thrilled that she remains as engaged in Hudson and Columbia County as ever. She sees what we have been saying all along, that Nick Haddad is the right person to take Hudson forward. We sincerely appreciate the Senator's endorsement and support".

For more information please visit: www.nickhaddadformayor.com

The Columbia Paper Endorses Dr. George Davis.

2011-10-31T11:33:00.000-04:00

and its publisher Parry Teasdale

have endorsed

Dr. George Davis

for

Columbia County Coroner

In the editorial endorsement, Mr. Teasdale says,

"He (...) has the ability to communicate on a professional level with the forensic pathologists, the specialists whose opinions may eventually affect the fate of others in criminal cases. In these matters, there is no substitute for the observations of a doctor and his ability to speak the language of medical science with his peers".

"Dr. George Davis renders a great service to the people of this county, and on November 8 I urge voters to re-elect him as a Columbia County Coroner".

Read the entire endorsement at The Columbia Paper

The Columbia Paper Endorses Peter Stoll, CPA

2011-10-28T13:14:00.002-04:00

and its publisher Parry Teasdale

have endorsed

Peter Stoll, CPA

for

Columbia County Treasurer

In the Editorial Mr. Teasdale cites the need to have a professional at the helm as the County's Chief Fiscal Watchdog saying,

...this job of chief fiscal officer requires something that of the two, only Mr. Stoll has: professional expertise in the bewilderingly complex field of money management. He also has a lifetime of experience in the maze of reporting requirements that allow others to know exactly where their money has gone and how it got there.

Mr. Teasdale also referenced the $9 Million in funds the county floated on its books for years, even though they knew or should have known that the money would never be collected, saying,

To blow the whistle on stunts like that, not to mention to combat the fraudsters who lurk just a click away on the Internet or, let's face it, the crooks who sometimes weasel their way inside, this county needs an independently elected treasurer who knows best how to protect the tax money we give the county. In this race, Peter Stoll is that person.

Read the entire endorsement at The Columbia Paper

District Attorney Candidates Debate

2011-10-28T03:48:00.000-04:00

Columbia County
District Attorney
Debate

between
Democrat Eugene Keeler

and

Republican Paul Czjaka

The debate was sponsored jointly by the Register-Star and the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. The moderator for the event was Columbia County Chamber of Commerce President David Colby and was held Friday October 29th.

Following is a report on the debate by Cyndy Hall, Chair of the Columbia County Democratic Committee.

I attended the debate yesterday at SPACE 360 along with a good number of other Democrats. The format was very similar to that used by the now defunct Columbia County League of Women Voters. The room was full, about 150 people and I think fairly evenly split between supporters of both candidates. Both made opening statements, questions were taken from the audience and each had closing statements. You can read more about it in the Register-Star.

About the actual debate:
Gene Keeler was excellent! He presented new ideas to help people in trouble with the law, especially young people and promised to throw the book at hard core criminals. He called Czajka out on "special treatment for special people" and gave specific examples to back up his case; he gave examples of Czajka intermingling politics with the law: He stated that in the past the DA's office only focused on conviction rates and he would focus on social justice. Gene was articulate, passionate about the law and helping people and presented many new ideas for change. He won the debate .. hands down, in my opinion.

County Judge Candidates Address the Audience
Both candidates for County Judge had a chance to introduce themselves and had 5 minutes to make their case . This was NO CONTEST - the jury is back and Richard Koweek won the case! He was calm, cool, articulate, presented his case in a logical, factual manner; he looked like a judge and sounded like a judge. Cozzolino was lackluster at best and she sounded totally unprepared.

For more on the debate see Register-Star
See also Candidate profiles in Columbia Paper and Register-Star

Scenes From Columbia County's Democratic Convention

2011-10-25T15:25:00.003-04:00

Democratic Countywide, City and Town Candidates for Office all helped raise funds for the campaigns but more importantly they also helped create new bonds between those who seek to serve the residents of the County, the City and the Towns of Columbia County.

On October 23rd 2011, Dozens of Candidates for County and Town Offices converged for the very first Columbia County Democratic Convention. The event took place at Helsinki Hudson. This marked the first time that the Countywide Democratic candidates and candidates for Town Boards, Common Council, Town Supervisor, Town Clerk, Tax Collector and Highway Superintendent were all in the same place at the same time.

Many candidates met their counterparts from other towns for the first time at this event. The Columbia County Democratic Committee sees this event as another step forward toward greater cooperation between elected officials and between the municipalities that they represent.

Following is a group photo of many of the Democratic candidates running countywide and in the city and towns of Columbia County along with the the Officers of the Columbia County Democratic Committee.

Check out the following slide show for more scenes from the
1st Columbia County Democratic Convention.

Only One County Judge Candidate Is Rated

2011-10-13T00:44:00.001-04:00

Qualified!

The Democratic endorsed candidate for Columbia County Judge, Hudson City Court Judge Richard M. Koweek has been rated “Qualified” by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission (IJEQC) for the Third Judicial District.

Judge Koweek is the only candidate for the position of Columbia County Judge to achieve this distinction.

“I am deeply honored. The IJEQC process was very detailed and demanding. It was clear during the interview that my judicial experience and demeanor, combined with varied legal knowledge, were significant to the members of the IJEQC. The ‘Qualified’ rating from an independent panel of both lawyers and non-lawyers speaks to my unique qualifications for the position of Columbia County Judge."

Columbia County Democrats Chair Cyndy Hall said,

"This is quite an honor for Judge Koweek and I am thrilled for him. His experience and impeccable judicial reputation will serve him well as Columbia County Judge. I do find it perplexing that Ms. Cozzolino would not put herself forward to this panel. They are designed to take the issue of qualification for office out of the political realm and put it in the hands of non-partisan experts."

If you'd like to make a contribution to Judge Koweek's Campaign
Checks can be mailed to:

Committee to Elect Richard Koweek
65 Glenwood Blvd
Hudson NY 12534
Frank Rees Treasurer

Delegates Choose Judges

2011-09-28T22:44:00.000-04:00

Judicial Delegates from Columbia County attended the Judicial District Convention Friday at the Albany County Courthouse to nominate candidates for the office of Justice of the New York State Supreme Court.

Judicial delegates attending the convention were (back row) Doug McGivney, Kinderhook, Joyce Thompson, Taghkanic, Robina Ward, Hillsdale, Virginia Martin, Stockport, Judge Raymond Elliott, Cyndy Hall, Chair, Columbia County Democratic Committee and Judge Thomas Breslin. (front row) Dianne Klinger, Chatham, Carol Sacks, Copake and Rose Aulino, Copake.

Judge Thomas Breslin of Albany County and Judge Raymond Elliott of Rensselaer County were unanimously endorsed as candidates for the November election and will appear on the Democratic line on the ballot.

The Best Team of Competent Candidates for Columbia County

2011-09-23T05:50:00.001-04:00

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

This year in Columbia County, voters are going to have a real choice. They can choose whether to support the same old bunch of people, who don't seem to get much done. Or they can chose the incredibly qualified Democrats who are running Countywide this year.

Competency!

(l-r) Richard Koweek, Peter Stoll, Eugene Keeler, Dr George Davis

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Judge Richard Koweek for County Judge

Richard Koweek grew up and has lived is entire life in Columbia County. He raised great kids here too.

He's practiced most every kind of law that is handled at County Court. He was also elected City Judge in 2009 and currently sits in Hudson City Court. That experience will serve him well on the bench. It will also serve the people of Columbia County well. His opponent is sorely lacking the broad based experience that Judge Koweek brings to the bench.

County Court jurisdiction is broad and diverse, and the position of County Court Judge is multifaceted. It requires a person who can deal with emotional family issues with sensitivity and understanding yet is firm and forthright when dealing with people who have harmed others. He also understands the legal complexities of estate and civil practice. But most of all, he is fair and respects all who come before the Court.

Judge Koweek’s background, temperament, and experience uniquely qualify him to be the next Columbia County Court judge

Visit Judge Koweek's website.

Judge Koweek has been endorsed by:
Columbia County Democratic Committee, Working Families Party, and the Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

Contributions may be made to:

Committee to Elect Richard Koweek
65 Glenwood Blvd
Hudson NY 12534
Frank Rees Treasurer

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Peter Stoll CPA for County Treasurer

Peter Stoll is a Certified Public Accountant licensed and registered in New York State with extensive audit and income tax experience. He also has an extensive knowledge of information technology, financial systems, and internal controls. Skills that have been sorely lacking, as our county has thrashed back and forth from one unthought out scheme after another.
Peter Stoll has managed the finances for several mid-size businesses for the past 35 years. In this way he has developed the skills required to manage, monitor, and control the way public money is spent in Columbia County. He has a record of implementing major cost savings. Something that the next few years are going to require. He is eager to put his skills to work for the benefit of all of us, and to help reduce the cost of managing the County’s government.

These times require that we seek out and hire only the best people we can find to help solve our financial situation. That is what elections are supposed to be about, hiring the best person for the job at hand. We have found the best person for the job. He is Peter Stoll, the only CPA in the race.

Learn more about Peter on his website.

Peter Stoll has been endorsed by:
Columbia County Democratic Committee, Working Families Party, and the Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

Contributions may be made to:

Peter Stoll 4 Treasurer
PO Box 113
East Chatham, NY 12060

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Eugene Keeler for District Attorney

Gene Keeler is an institution in Columbia County. He is a former elected district attorney and has held the positions of public defender, conflict public defender, and, currently, director of legal and advocacy services at COARC. Gene holds a J.D. degree from the University of Memphis and a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee. He is an attorney with 30 years of general practice that includes criminal law and elder law, and is a licensed master’s-level social worker.Gene Keeler knows what is wrong with the system, because he has seen it from every side.

He has been telling the people of this county that the system is rotten and broken for years. Everyone knows about the cronyism, favoritism and shoddy work at the DA's office. But only one person was willing to stand up and call it out for what it was. That man is Gene Keeler. Lots of people have no problem with what goes on there. Because they figure that if they ever need to get off of a DWI or a domestic assault, that there familial, business or political connections, will get them off. When they have issues with the police or the DA's office, everything is just taken care of, with easy sentences if it even goes to court and rarely does anyone read about it in the paper.

But the regular Jane or Joe, who work hard, pay their taxes try to be good citizens, get the book thrown at them, in order to keep the conviction rate high at the DA's office. Political connections should not buy you a "get out of jail free card". Gene has promised to end the “get out of jail free” program for the well-connected. Instead he will give all citizens equal treatment under the law. Isn't that what we should all expect?

He cares about justice, not statistics. While at the same time, he will make sure that all evidence gets to court and will ooperate fully with the police and community agencies. He will work full time to save the taxpayers money, and will work especially hard to assist victims and to lock up hard-core criminals.

It's time to clean up the mess at the District Attorney's office and stop playing political games with people's lives. Gene will make it a place where all of the citizens of Columbia County will feel that they have an impartial and fair person sitting in the prosecutors chair. Eugene Keeler is the right person for District Attorney.

Eugene Keeler has been endorsed by:
Columbia County Democratic Committee Working Families Party, and the Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

Contributions made be made to:

Committee for DA Reform Vote Keeler
75 Spook Rock Rd
Hudson NY 12534

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Dr. George Davis for County Coroner

Dr. Davis has served one four year term as County Coroner. He is also the only doctor in recent memory to serve as Coroner. Shockingly, the Coroner's position does not require any medical training at all. All that is required is getting the most votes on Election Day.

Not many people understand what a corner does. Most people think that the coroner pronounces people "dead". In fact the coroner often gets to the scene quite a while after a person has died. What the coroner mostly does, is investigate why or how the person died. In essence the coroner is the advocate for the deceased.

Dr. Davis has four years experience as County Coroner. He has 30 years’ experience in family practice medicine in Columbia County. He has done extensive training in death investigation. He has a detailed knowledge of the legal system and ethics, and holds a Master’s Degree in bioethics, along with extensive experience in grief work.

He is the advocate for those who have no voices. He is the compassionate doctor who tends to the grieving families. He is the only candidate in the race for coroner with the education, experience and medical training to do the job properly.

He has earned the thanks and apprecaition from so many people in Columbia County, because he was there for them at one of the worst times in their life. He's earned their respect and he should have your vote. Keep the doctor at the corner's office.

Contributions may be made to:

Committee to Elect George F Davis MD
161 Turkey Hill Road
Red Hook, NY 12571

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Organized Labor Makes Their Endorsments

2011-09-19T23:59:00.006-04:00

The Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

&
Upper Hudson Central Labor Council

have announced their endorsements in the

2011 Columbia County elections

Mike Lonigro, President of the Upper Hudson Central Labor Council announces the endorsements.

The Endorsements

County-Wide Races

County Court Judge - Richard Koweek
District Attorney - Eugene Keeler
County Treasurer - Peter Stoll

Copake

Town Board - Susan Winchell-Sweeney

Town Clerk/Tax Collector - Rachel Collins Kelly

Hudson
Mayor - Nicholas Haddad

Common Council President - Donald A. Moore

1st Ward Supervisor - Sarah Hoe Sterling

4th Ward Supervisor - William Hughes

3rd Ward Supervisor - Ellen Thurston

1st Ward Aldermen (2 Seats) - Larissa Thomas & Dave Marston

New Lebanon

Supervisor - Margaret Robertson
Town Justice - Darcy Poppey

Stockport

Town Board - Carl L. Roby

Stuyvesant

Supervisor - Lee Jamison

(l-r) Victor Mendolia, Cyndy Hall, Mike Lonigro, Bob Balcom, Nick Haddad, Lee Jamison, Peter Stoll, Richard Koweek, Ellen Thurston, William Hughes Jr, Sarah Sterling, Don Moore, Larissa Thomas, Ernie Reis, Devin McConnell

Other Candidate Recommendations

In addition, 6 more candidates were recommended tonight for endorsement. Those recommendations will be ratified at the UH CLC Kingston meeting, Monday September 26, 2011.

Chatham

Supervisor - Kurt Barensfeld

Town Board - Robert Balcom

Copake

Supervisor - Linda Gabaccia

Gallatin

Supervisor- Steven Sorman

Town Board - Thomas Toigo

Hillsdale

Supervisor - Robina Ward

• • • • • • • • • • •

The HVALF/UHCLC released the following statement:
Tonight the Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation and the Upper Hudson Central Labor Council Columbia Chapter announced its endorsements in the 2011 Columbia County elections. The announcements were made inside the SEIU 1199 offices in Hudson, NY.

“The Upper Hudson Central Labor Council is pleased to be making endorsements in this year's elections. As we get further into the election season we will be working to see our candidates elected. Pandering to wealthy corporations has not produced the jobs we need locally. By working with the Hudson and Columbia Democratic candidates we will put our local economy back on track,” said Mike Lonigro, President of the Upper Hudson Central Labor Council.

“We have great candidates in Columbia. We will unite to protect Columbia’s middle class and save jobs and services,” said Paul Ellis-Graham, President of the Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation.

"The healthcare workers of 1199SEIU are looking forward to providing the "boots on the ground" in order to elect the candidates who understand and are committed to solving the problems that working families face today. All politics is local--and we are taking these races very seriously," said Antonella Pechtel, Political Director, 1199 SEIU Hudson Valley/Capital Region.  

“The Columbia County Democrats, together with the Central Labor Council, will keep fighting for this county’s middle class. We say no to the extreme right’s anti-worker agenda and are committed to saving jobs,” said Cyndy Hall, Chair of the Columbia Democrats.  

"The Hudson City Democratic Committee is grateful to have labor’s support in this years election. The support of organized labor helped our five excellent candidates who faced primaries, to win those races by unheard of margins. Together, we will go on to win in November and to change Hudson and Columbia County,” said Victor Mendolia, Hudson City Democratic Chairman.

“Collective bargaining works when management and labor negotiates from positions of respect. The HVALF/UHCLC endorsements mean that within this field of candidates for Columbia County offices there is respect for organized labor. Such mutual respect is a building block for a fair deal for workers and taxpayers,” said Ernie Reis, a retired teacher and member of the New York State United Teachers says.

This announcement emphasized the desire by both Labor and candidates running for office to work together to bring good government that will serve the middle class during this very difficult economic downturn. For many years Columbia wanted the support of Labor, and it was through the hard work of Mike Lonigro, Beth Soto, Director of the HVALF and the Columbia Community that this coalition was formed.

County Dems Choose Their Officers

2011-09-19T03:46:00.005-04:00

Columbia County Democratic Committee Elects New Officers

• Cyndy Hall - Chair •

• Victor Mendolia -1st-Vice Chair •

• Peter Bujanow - 2nd Vice-Chair •

• Carol Sacks - Treasurer •

• Kay Abraham - Secretary •

• Keith St. John - Parliamentarian •

(l-r) Outgoing Chair-Chris Nolan; Newly elected Chair-Cyndy Hall;
2nd Vice-Chair-Peter Bujanow; Parliamentarian-Keith St. John;
Secretary-Kaye Abraham; and Treasurer-Carol Sacks.
1st Vice-Chair, Victor Mendolia, had another commitment and is not pictured.

On Thursday September 15th, the Columbia County Democratic Committee elected new officers at its re-organizational meeting. Cyndy Hall of Claverack was elected Chair. Miss Hall has served as 1st Vice-Chair of the Columbia County Democratic Committee for the past 4 years. Elected 1st Vice Chair was Victor Mendolia, Chairman of the Hudson City Democratic Committee. Peter Bujanow of Kinderhook was elected 2nd Vice-Chair. Carol Sacks was elected Treasurer, a role she has held for the past 4 years, Kay Abraham of Germantown was elected Secretary of the Committee. Keith St. John of Kinderhook was appointed by the Executive Committee as Parlimentarian of the Columbia County Democratic Committee.

Upon election as Chair, Cyndy Hall said "We are so proud of our newly elected team. They all have the skills and experience we need to move the Columbia County Democratic Party forward. Electing officers from Claverack, Hudson, Kinderhook and Copake, ensures that the urban, suburban and rural issues of Columbia County are all represented. We look forward to finding common ground on the serious issues which affect all Columbia County residents. Decreasing the burden on taxpayers, supporting existing business and attracting new business which will provide living-wage jobs will be our priorities. We need to hold the line on all County spending and begin thinking "out of the box" to resolve these issues for the people of Columbia County."

Hall invited all Columbia County Democrats to the next County meeting which will be held on October 20 at SPACE 360 on Warren Street, Hudson at 7pm.

Eugene Keeler for District Attorney

2011-09-09T10:41:00.003-04:00

Eugene Keeler for

Columbia County District Attorney

Experience Family Values Wisdom

The right combination for justice.

Eugene Keeler of Claverack is a lifelong Columbia County resident. In 32 years of service to the county he has been elected district attorney and held the positions of public defender, conflict public defender, and, currently, director of legal and advocacy services at COARC.

Eugene Keeler holds a J.D. degree from the University of Memphis and a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee. He is an attorney with 30 years of general practice that includes criminal law and elder law, and a licensed master’s-level social worker.

As Columbia County District Attorney, Eugene Keeler will:

End the “get out of jail free” program for the well-connected
Lock up hard-core criminals
Give all citizens equal treatment under the law
Handle cases quickly
Make sure that all evidence gets to court
Cooperate fully with the police and community agencies
Keep the D.A.’s office open and accessible to all
Assist victims
Work full time and save taxpayer money
Care about justice, not statistics

Vote for Judge Richard Koweek for County Judge

2011-09-08T17:40:00.000-04:00

Judge Richard Koweek

for Columbia County Judge

Richard Koweek of Hudson is an experienced, dedicated lawyer and judge who is ready, willing, and able to assume the responsibilities of County Court and to deliver the high quality judicial service that Columbia County deserves.

For the past 32 years, Richard Koweek’s law practice has concentrated in the areas of surrogate practice, criminal law, civil law, and family law. Since 2009 he has served as Hudson City Court Judge, bringing to the bench a combination of legal experience and community knowledge.

County Court jurisdiction is broad and diverse, and the position of County Court Judge is multifaceted. It requires a person who:

can deal with emotional family issues with sensitivity and understanding.
is firm and forthright when dealing with people who have harmed others.
understands the legal complexities of estate and civil practice.
is fair and respects all who come before the Court.

Judge Koweek’s background, temperament, and experience uniquely qualify him to be the next Columbia County Court judge.

Richard Koweek is a lifelong Hudson resident.

He and his wife, Toni Koweek, also an attorney, raised their family here.

Richard Koweek: A Community Volunteer
Richard Koweek has served on the Board of Directors of Columbia Memorial Hospital, Columbia Children’s Foundation, Second Show, and Parsons Child and Family Center. He has served on the Board of Education for the Hudson City School District and as a director of the Ghostly Gallop, the Hudson Library 5K race. Time spent working with others to improve the community provides its own reward, and an understanding of the issues the community faces.

Judge Koweek has been endorsed by:
Columbia County Democratic Committee
Working Families Party of New York State
Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

Visit Judge Koweek's Website

Vote for George Davis MD for County Coroner

2011-09-07T16:28:00.005-04:00

George Davis MD

for County Coroner

Dr. George Davis of Germantown is incumbent Coroner for Columbia County.

Dr. Davis has:

4 years’ experience as County Coroner
30 years’ experience in family practice medicine in Columbia County
Extensive training in death investigation
Knowledge of the legal system and ethics
A Master’s Degree in bioethics
Extensive experience in grief work

George Davis is a team-oriented professional, part of the leadership at Columbia Memorial Hospital.

Unique Experience
for a Unique Role
• • •

Vote for Peter Stoll for County Treasurer

2011-09-07T14:56:00.000-04:00

Peter Stoll CPA

for Columbia County Treasurer

Peter Stoll CPA

Peter Stoll’s family roots in Columbia County reach back into the 1940s, and he has witnessed the many changes that have shaped this area.

Peter Stoll has managed the finances for several mid-size businesses for the past 35 years. In this way he has developed the skills required to manage, monitor, and control the way public money is spent in Columbia County. He is eager to put his skills to work for the benefit of all of us, and to help reduce the cost of managing the County’s government.

Highlights of Peter Stoll’s Professional Experience

A Certified Public Accountant licensed and registered in New York State with extensive audit and income tax experience.
Successfully developed and implemented effective accounting, financial, and budgeting systems for companies over a 35-year period.
Chief financial officer for three companies with revenues of more than $150 million annually.
Extensive knowledge of information technology, financial systems, and internal controls.
A record of implementing major cost savings.
An entrepreneur who understands business.
Superior communication and managerial skills.

Endorsed By

Columbia County Democratic Committee
Working Families Party of New York State
Hudson Valley Area Labor Federation

See Peter's My View piece in the Register-Star

Learn more about Peter Stoll at

www.peterstoll.com

Columbia County Democrats Make County-Wide Endorsements for 2011

2011-05-27T03:04:00.015-04:00

The

Columbia County Democratic Committee
met in Hudson on

Thursday May 26th

to endorse our 2011 candidates for countywide office.

• Hudson City Judge Richard Koweek was chosen to run for county judge.
• Dr. George Davis MD will seek re-election to the post of County Coroner.
• Eugene Keeler was chosen for District Attorney.
• Peter Stoll, CPA was picked to run for County Treasurer.

(l-r) Endorsed Candidates Judge Richard Koweek for County Judge,
Dr. George Davis for reelection as County Coroner,
Eugene Keeler for District Attorney and Peter Stoll for County Treasurer.

Experienced Hudson City Judge Richard Koweek was selected to run for county judge. He will likely be opposed by the current Republican District Attorney Beth Cozzolino.Koweek spoke openly of his long family history in our community. He said, "In criminal law, I've served as a defense counsel, prosecutor and judge. I think this experience makes me uniquely qualified to be a candidate and a judge. Nobody else brings that to the table."

Gene Keeler, who announced his candidacy early in 2011, was picked to run for District Attorney. Gene Keeler is a former Columbia County DA, was Public Defender, and was a social worker for 21 years. Gene Keeler opened his remarks with a statement about Richard Koweek stating "I'm proud to be running with Richard Koweek - he's beyond reproach." Keeler went on to say the difference between him and the Republican side is that, "I know what it is to be clinical. I can do both things, think as a clinical social worker and fight for what is right." The other side, he said, are "adversarial and abusive" when what is called for is a more flexible approach.

A relative newcomer to county politics, Peter Stoll was picked to run for County Treasurer. Peter Stoll is a CPA and has run several financial departments of large multi-million dollar corporations. He will be the only certified public accountant running for the office of county treasurer. As a CPA, Mr. Stoll feels he is "incredibly qualified" for the job as County Treasurer. He said he will "Do what's right for the county: dig in, make sure nothing's taken for granted, and work like the dickens to win this election." Mr. Stoll's family's history in this area goes back to the 1940s; his aunt owned a flower farm on Rock City Road in Chatham.

Dr. George Davis will seek re-election to the post of County Coroner. Dr. Davis has been a doctor for over 30 years and has been an elected County Coroner for four years. It is notable that Dr. Davis is the first doctor to hold this position in Columbia County history. Dr. Davis said "I bring a unique set of experiences to my unique role for the county."

More at Register-Star

Martin Van Buren Dinner

2011-05-25T16:40:00.002-04:00

MARTIN VAN BUREN

AWARDS DINNER

Saturday, June 4, 2011
6-10pm

Columbia Golf and Country Club

295 Route 217 - Claverack, New York

Tickets - $50

6pm - Cocktails on the Deck

7pm - Dinner and Awards Presentation

DR. STEVEN A. LEIBO,

Professor of Modern International History & Politics at the Sage Colleges
and an international affairs commentator for WAMC

HONOREES:

LEE JAMISON

ALICE WETTACH

and

THE CAREGIVERS OF

COLUMBIA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

****************

Music by Ed Reisner & the Jazz Men

****************

This event is sure to SELL OUT this year as it did last year, so we encourage you to purchase your tickets early by going to

www.actblue.com/page/4mvbdinner

or sending a check to the

Columbia County Democratic Committee

PO Box 507, Ghent, NY 12516

Congressman Gibson Town Hall Meeting in Chatham

2011-03-21T23:12:00.021-04:00

Congressman
Chris Gibson held a Town Hall style meeting on March 23rd, 2011 in Columbia County.

Hear the full meeting which was broadcast by Community Radio Station WGXC here