Mill Street to Main Street Not Easy in Windham

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - A persistent perplexity has again been brought up regarding entering the flow of traffic, going from Mill Street to Main Street in Windham, and challenges encountered in attempting to do so.

Town council members, at a meeting last week, heard a concern from resident Karen Bromley that is not exactly unfamiliar. 

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve almost been killed,” Bromley said, “trying to turn east onto Route 23,” from Mill Street in the heart of the downtown business district.

Bromley appealed to government leaders to alleviate the situation. Town supervisor Thomas Hoyt said the council would do what it could, while making no promises for improvement.

“Route 23 is a [New York] State road so whatever happens or doesn’t happen is controlled by them,” Hoyt explained.

Town officials have approached the State Department of Transportation on other occasions about that section of roadway.

“It’s definitely a tough intersection,” Hoyt said, noting a bumpout was added on the west side of the entryway to Route 23 when it was repaved and reconstructed in the early 2000’s.

While that improved access toward the setting sun, it did nothing to help drivers inching out of Mill Street, checking for cars, big trucks and motorcyclists coming from the east.

It is necessary, especially on a busy day in Windham, for drivers to ease into the westbound lane before zipping away from Mill Street.

Many days are busy in Windham so an orange cone has been set up in the nearest potential parking space, just east of Mill Street.

But that hasn’t resolved the issue. Hoyt suggested Bromley send a letter to the town council, detailing her experiences and her safety worries.

That letter will then be passed on to the DOT regional office in Cairo, setting in motion what will likely be a snail’s pace response.

“I can tell you this will not be a quick process,” Hoyt said, perhaps taking months before a team arrives to conduct a traffic study, then waiting for who-knows-how-long for a DOT decision.

In the meantime, many local drivers approaching the intersection from the north are taking advantage of a shortcut along Library Road, avoiding the exasperating intersection altogether.

In other matters:

—Board members set a public hearing on the 2026 budget for Wednesday, November 12, their next regular monthly council meeting (changed from Thursday, November 13, due to scheduling conflicts).

“We will be staying within the two percent tax cap,” Supervisor Hoyt said, referring to the State imposed limit on annual tax levy increases.

Preliminary numbers show $3,237,775 to be raised by taxes after factoring in a customary movement of Fund Balance and Anticipated Revenue.

Hoyt said “unfunded mandates” handed down from Albany along with the usual expected rises in insurances and unforeseeable utility cost jumps account for the higher spending.

Dollars for another fulltime worker within the town’s ambulance squad are contained in the fiscal plan, keeping staffing consistent and strong.

—Board members approved a request by resident Stephen Bemdernagel to place a decorative Menorah on the front lawn of the Centre Church.

This will be the seventh year of the holiday tradition featuring the over-sized Menorah, a multibranched candelabrum used in Jewish worship. The electric Menorah will be lighted around December 14.

—Board members, at a previous session, declined a request from the Windham Area Recreation Foundation to partner with the town on maintenance of trails, bridges, etc, at the Windham Path.

“We have the money, expertise and wherewithal to do this without burdening the taxpayers,” WARF president Nick Bove said.

WARF envisioned and built the trails at the Windham Path, providing initial maintenance prior to the town taking over the task.

Bove presented photographic documentation of spots he suggested required attention, saying, “we don’t want to get in your hair.

“We want to continue the partnership we had in the beginning and get these headaches off Gary’s plate,” Bove said, referring to highway superintendent Gary Thorington who now oversees upkeep.

“The reason the town started to maintain the Path is because it wasn’t being properly maintained,” Thorington said.

Discussion ensued, with Thorington viewing the photographs, noting some repairs or restorations had already been accomplished.

Upon Bove’s request, Hoyt offered a motion to fellow board members about having the town formally partner with WARF.

The motion was not seconded and therefore not voted on. Hoyt suggested that WARF members and Thorington walk the Path together, identifying shortfalls that could be remedied by the town.

“We have a game plan. We will address this in a professional manner. No one is going to neglect this community treasure,” Hoyt said.

 

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Together Again, and Stronger than Ever in Haines Falls

By Greg Madden

HAINES FALLS — Following the first ever “Stronger Together” session, held five months ago in May of 2025, forum organizers wondered how might these gatherings be continually received and more importantly attended.

The first session showed a strong local interest in exploring measures to strengthen our community, but several attendees wondered just how this event could go from an open discussion setting to a take action platform?  Talk, as we know, is cheap and how long would attendance remain high and committed if there were no results from these gatherings. 

Over the summer, organizers worked on a process for maximum performance that translated into tangible results.  After reviewing and processing the feedback from the first session, this time launched a different group dynamic for the second "Stronger Together.” 

This method, or process, is called “The Un-conference.” This productive platform has evolved over time getting its genesis from Harrison Owen’s “Open Space Technology” pioneered in the 1980’s . With this format attendees create their own program. It’s very simple, effective and puts proper focus on needed and important issues therefore taking the boring out of large gatherings.  It creates workspaces for accomplishment.

Barbara Swanson of Twilight Park facilitated and later commented, “We used a protocol called “open space,” which is a way of letting the people in the room create the discussion topics. This guarantees that there will be robust conversations that interest the people who attend. At our recent event on October 18th, topics such as housing, life skills classes, creating senior and youth centers, addiction recovery, creating better community communication, and food security were discussed in small groups. Conversations were exciting and plans were made for further work. That is the magic of “open space,” it works every time.” 

And it did, and very successfully. The overall theme of “Stronger Together” is to make our region of the planet better and it is accomplished with “your agenda” that you bring to the event and not just a preset programmed agenda. Favored topics are the ones that get activated. Your ideas.

Attendees presented passionate topics that filled five tables of 10 or more participants.  In some cases, topics were combined to strengthen those who felt there was synergy in those proposals.

The Mountaintop, and other surrounding communities, joined together for a second time showing that there is a momentum and appetite for improvement and expansion in our region to build stronger communities, even in remote locales, and at the grass roots level.  

Those who attended shared a unified willingness to roll up their sleeves and help get more done, instead of waiting for others to get it done, putting community first, above all else.  Folks these days are tired of waiting for others to do the work. They are willing to join ranks with town leaders and extend to them the energy they need to get things accomplished here in our region. 

First time attendee, Sasha Smith of Elka Park in Hunter remarked, “It was a great pleasure to see our community come together with specific suggestions that could benefit the mountaintop. The well run brainstorming session that ensued was made productive by the presence of the local officials and led to several actionable initiatives.” 

Town of Hunter Supervisor Sean Mahoney, who has attended both Stronger Together gatherings said, “It was great to join the ‘Stronger Together’ team once again to collaborate with leaders from across our mountaintop communities. The discussions and shared ideas from this group continue to be instrumental as we work toward shaping a stronger, more connected future for the Town and the entire region. Efforts like this remind us that when we bring our resources, knowledge, and perspectives together, we can truly make our mountaintop stronger together.”

Mayor of Tannersville, Dr. Lee McGunnigle, has also attended both sessions and shared, “Stronger Together was a perfect format to spotlight some of the challenges that our mountain top considers important. Sean Mahoney and I have formally put forth strong initiatives to address these issues. The Village of Tannersville downtown revitalization $10 million investment planted the seed for affordable housing which is underway with fifty-six (56) units under construction. The Intermunicipal comprehensive plan will put to paper the Future Vision Of The Villages and the Town of Hunter. I urge every resident to share their feelings and their thoughts in this formal process. I am dedicated to implementing solutions to many of the initiatives addressed at this conference and it will be accomplished only through the collaboration of our community.”

Marc Czermerys, Chairperson-Town of Hunter Planning Board and Chairperson-Joint Comprehensive Plan Committee, Town of Hunter, Village of Hunter, Village of Tannersville stated, “It was a great pleasure to once again gather with the “Stronger Together” team as we look to bring together leaders from across the mountaintop to find ways to better our community.  As we move forward into the process of updating the Comprehensive Plans for the Town of Hunter and the Villages of Hunter and Tannersville, the insights that this group can bring to the table will be invaluable. Their knowledge across the spectrums of community needs including housing, community resourcing, workforce training, and the general complications of living in a rural and mountainous location all are items that should and will be considered as we create a new guiding plan for us to use as a basis of area growth.  I look forward to the continued work as we all try to help our mountaintop be truly Stronger Together.”

Attendees put aside their personal feelings and choices beautifully to work as one energy for the common good for all, on causes they all agree to pursue. 

“There was a remarkable spirit of generosity among those present,  people were thinking not of themselves but of the well-being of the entire community,” said Jonathan Gross of Maplecrest.

Judy Rodgers of Haines Falls added, “So much momentum in so many directions! Food insecurity, senior center, a place for youth and great music. Let’s do it again soon.” 

All, and all communities, are welcome and to stay up on the latest information and progress on these initiatives, please follow “Stronger Together” on Facebook, by listening to WRIP 97.9 FM or online at www.StrongerTogetherMTNTop.com . 

Your ideas, help and skills make this community “Stronger Together.” 

 

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Traditionally Speaking…by Pat Larsen - The Invisible Currency

There’s an “exchange” that runs between all of us.

It takes on a form that is either spoken or implied between us that occurs quite naturally, often without being noticed. Unlike money, it doesn’t deplete when spent but actually grows outwardly the more it then circulates.

It’s the multifaceted aspect of “the exchange”  that can make or break friendships, family connections and even that expression that we have to a family pet. Or it can simply be the glue that continuously connects us through our quieter less obvious efforts to encourage each other that nourishes and binds us.  Our relationships can then develop or can help us to grow richer still, as more of this intention  circulates within the connections we perpetuate.

Between friends, this might be our way of encouraging each other with sincere honesty and through deep mindful listening whether that is occasional contact or on a day to day basis.

The exchanges between families often call for a bit more patience, simply because there is an expectation already embedded in each of us that goes beyond occasional because of the deep roots we share.

Then, simply put, it’s those expressions of love without words, that enhance the exchanges we might have that deepens bonds throughout our years together.

Our pets share the secret code also that they use to connect to us and then “we” to them. This is expressed through their eyes or perhaps with a wag of their tails that shows their appreciation. 

In our household, that exchange is often manifested through a game of fetch with a favorite toy. We all are left with a true feeling of the literal connections that our brains and our bodies so appreciate.

Yes. It's a bond that is chemical as well and in a literal sense that is released in hormonal ways.

Each transaction between individuals reminds us in not so subtle ways that we are indeed important and do matter to each other.

We might not realize how significant this concept is because it doesn’t always announce itself. I could be through a conversation that shows acknowledgement or perhaps in the ongoing defining of small aspects of our relationships that adds up even if in silent less obvious ways.

Every time we interact-whether through words or through presence…something is exchanged. It might be laughter for reassurance or a sympathetic glance of camaraderie.

That’s the beauty of “the exchange.”

Think of the electrical lines that connect us without fail.

Remember that in every relationship, new or old, we have a keen sense of each other's moods, the words contained within the silences, and the potential warmth contained in a gesture.

“Whether it’s spoken or not, deliberate or instinctive, every exchange reminds us that we matter to someone-and that, in turn, gives us something priceless to pass on.

Think about your relationships in this way and acknowledge the frequency of the exchanges that you have to fully comprehend how very gifted you are…it literally will enhance the way you live your life.

Pat Larsen is a syndicated columnist who lives, works, plays and prays with her husband of 52 years and their pup, Lily.

She loves hearing from her readership, feel free to email her at pelarsen5@aol.com or by phone 518-275-8686 if you have a story to share.

 

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LEGISLATURE STUFF - It’s Not About the Money - Oh Yes It Is

By Michael Ryan

CATSKILL - Several suggestions were made on what to do with reserve dollars when a public hearing was held on the proposed 2026 Greene County budget, this past Monday night.

County lawmakers hosted the hearing at Catskill High School, drawing an uncharacteristically large crowd on a spending plan that, for the seventh straight year, contains no tax levy increase.

Six of the county’s fourteen towns, under the current proposal, will pay more than they did in 2025, according to figures offered by county administrator Shaun Groden.

But those rises are due to the complex property Equalization Rates, though the total levy will stay unchanged at $27,404,370, budget numbers show.

Larger than predicted sales tax revenues will be used to help offset roughly $5.8 million more in overall spending from a year ago, along with other sources, officials say.

Appropriations rose from $136,082,679 to $141,858,252, needing an equal amount in income, especially sales tax, to keep the tax levy stationary.

Groden, while able to follow through on his predication made, last year, that the levy would stay fixed, could make no such future promise.

Fortunately, sales tax receipts have steadily grown in the county over the same 7-year period and, “sales tax revenue is absolutely critical to the budget,” Groden said. “But it is something we cannot control.”

Groden pointed to potential slashes in both federal and State funding for public assistance programs, and the ongoing government shutdown in Washington D.C. as further reason to take a cautionary, wait-and-see approach to 2027 fiscal prognostications.

In the present, several public hearing attendees focused their attention on the Meals on Wheels program and controversy that has swirled around possible cuts in the number and type of home deliveries.

It has been proposed by the Department of Aging to limit home deliveries of hot meals to once a week, rather than the current five times per week, as a significant cost-cutting measure.

While four more days of frozen meals would be delivered during that single visit, many concerns were voiced regarding the resulting loss off daily interaction between volunteer meal deliverers and the homebound.

While the facts and figures have become somewhat skewed amidst rumors of abandoning the program and misinformation, town of Windham resident Jonathan Gross was one of many speakers urging lawmakers to “put a human face” on the issue.

Helen Kerr, from the town of Lexington, shared a story of how her parents were drivers for the program and how she continued their volunteerism.

“People getting the meals have given so much to their communities,” Kerr said. “They like to see the volunteers every day They depend on us.

“We may be the only people they see on any given day. It really wouldn’t cost that much more to keep going the five days,” Kerr said.

Lawmakers did not provide precise dollar amounts but a series of legislative committee meetings on that subject are scheduled to commence, next week.

The future of Meal on Wheels is expected to be an integral part of those committee talks, potentially resulting in budget modifications prior to anticipated passage in mid-November.

Joseph Izzo, a former county legislator and frequent speaker at the annual budget hearings, took lawmakers to task for how they handle reserve dollars, saying, “let’s speak the truth.”

“I come here every year trying to get tax rates lowered for our towns. You have enough money to adjust your budget to lower property taxes,” in virtually every town, Izzo said.

“Based on what you are saying, and my analysis of the county and State financial reports, it tells me you don’t know [bleep],” Izzo said.

“I realize that issues come up every year but stop fooling around with what you anticipate and what you don’t anticipate. God will be here before you lower the tax rate,” Izzo said.

Lawmakers, over the past seven years, have discussed a tax break, but emphasize they have instead established several reserve accounts, knowing the expenses would inevitably be coming.

They point to the deep divide that surfaced during talks on the construction of a new county jail nearly a decade ago, having no dollars dedicated beforehand toward the State mandated, multi-million dollar project.

Since then, there have been changes made to replacement schedules for equipment, vehicles, materials, etc. in the county highway department, resulting in greater efficiencies and savings in repairs, officials say.

Lawmakers have also been involved in ongoing conversations with town leaders about the formation of a countywide ambulance system, a plan estimated to cost between $12-15 million.

A full countywide system appears to be inevitable although a timetable has been elusive and may be years down the road.

Meanwhile, lawmakers, are also considering subsidizing individual towns to help offset ever-rising costs, shifting a total of $2 million toward that end, dispensing the dollars based on each municipality’s tax levy.

In exchange, municipalities would be asked to sign an agreement, moving toward consolidation in terms of purchasing of equipment and supplies as well as billing, etc, shaping the groundwork for a unified system.

Those details are likewise expected to be debated in the upcoming committee sessions that begin on November 5.

 

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The Prattsville Scoop by Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Our most sincere thankfulness and gratitude to our Veterans. Do remember them every day and especially on Veterans Day, November 11. “Thank you for your service” accompanied by a handshake, hug and a kiss will do wonders for their day. To all our veterans “Thank you for your service”. The Gilboa Conesville CS will be hosting their annual Veterans Day Program on Monday, November 10, beginning at 9 AM. The students and staffs do a very meaningful program for our veterans and encourage all to attend. It seems the younger the children, the more willing they are to show their exuberance for this meaningful program. Thank you to all for showing your love and appreciation for our veterans. Appreciation and gratitude to our law enforcement members, firemen, EMTs and all those who are there for us in times of emergency and other needs. Remember to set your clocks back an hour Saturday PM.

Our local veterans will be the beneficiaries of the proceeds from the Annual Veterans Day Bake Sale, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Virgil E. Deyo Unit 1327, Saturday, November 8, 9 AM, at Jim’s Great American. You are asked to Bake, Buy or Donate, whatever your wishes and skills are. We have a professional pastry chef who has recently volunteered to make pies for this event. Pies are always the first to sell out so be there early. But if you are too late, there are other delicious items to tempt you and sate your sweet tooth – or will that be sweet teeth. See you there.

Welcome home to Peggy and Jim Young. They are recently returned from Scotland. Thought Peggy looked like she might have a sun tan. From being in Scotland? Did they make a detour to some sunny climes? Regardless, good for them and we wish them many more fun trips. Nothing like getting to know your fellow world citizens from other areas of our planet.

Janet Brainerd and daughter Kathy Schmeidel were guests at a wonderful family/friend 90th birthday party for Joan Myers on Saturday, October 25, at the home of her son Wayne of Prattsville/Red Falls. Joan’s children Wayne, Chip and Dee-Dee were there. Daughter Beverly, who lives in Texas, was the only one not able to attend. The party was a surprise for Joan and she said it was always her goal to reach 90 years of age. Her actual birthday in October 31. Many friends, family members, and one time co-workers made this a memorable day for Joan. Happy Birthday Joan. She resides in Stamford with her son Chip and family. Best to all the Myers family.

Forgot to send out welcome home wishes to Lisa and Steven Birnbaum. They had been visiting granddaughter Elie in New Zealand for a few weeks. Steven returned a few days before Lisa and she brought home an early seasonal cold. But Elie is worth it. As with all new first time grandparents, Steve and Lisa swear Elie is the smartest, brightest, and cutest little girl ever. Enjoy your family.

It was a week of family visitors. Monday niece Pat Minew stopped in for some organizing of Christmas bag construction for the veterans at Stratton VAMC and some family chit chat. Wednesday nephew Benny Benjamin called to say he wanted to stop by to sort through some family pictures going back to th 1930s – 40s, including his parents Ray and Rose Delmar Benjamin. He had some time while his wife Sandy was at the Patchworkers weekly sewing get together. Many childhood memories were enjoyed all over again. Ray was serving in the U.S. Army in World War II when Benny was born, seeing his son for the first time when Benny was two years old. Many of the pictures included Ray in uniform with his adoring younger sisters-in-law and his admiring brothers-in-law. One time in his later years Ray went to the VA for some hearing problems only to discover that he had shrapnel in his leg from combat during WW II in the Pacific. Not sure if they removed the shrapnel or fixed his hearing. Over the weekend Jeremy Marsh, one of the good guys, along Bobby Gurley, stopped by to do some household chores for those of a certain age. All of those mentioned above are included in the “good guys” category.

Get well wishes go out to Pat Bifolco. She just seems to go from one health issue to another. Also get well wishes are sent to mother/daughter – Linda Jaeger and Rosanne Cross. Both have had some days in the hospital are now home recovering from their individual health problems. Continued feel better wishes go out to Claudia Bracaliello, Mary Cline and Randy Brainerd. We send them all prayers for good health.

General Question: Who or what entity is in charge of the local Toys for Tots collection bins? Have been asked for this information so whoever is in charge of said charity, might have some support for your cause, and a good cause it is.

It was a most enjoyable day at Young’s Ace Hardware on Saturday, the 25th. The staff (Debbie W., Nick, Rob and Cameron and owner Peg and others) were there with their assistance and support for the booth for the sale of Raffle Tickets for the Flag Blanket, the Patriotic six piece purse ensemble and patriotic Teddy Bear sponsored by the Prattsville American Legion Auxiliary for the 2025 VA Christmas Celebration in December. Marianne Krauss was the donor of the Flag Blanket and Kathy Sherman made and donated the purse ensemble and teddy bear. We do have some very generous and appreciative friends and supporters of our veterans with many making very generous donations. Thank you. The drawing for these three prizes will be on Tuesday, December 9, and the winners will be notified. As always at these events, you get to touch base with many you have not seen in a while and to catch up on their news. Thanks to all, both local friends and relatives and the many visitors to our area, some passing through and others being part time homeowners. You are all great.

Guess I can sneak this in “GO BILLS”. Been awhile since I could say that. Right, Dottie?

Happy Birthday to Becky Town, at one time the Pastor of the Reform Church, on November 1. Becky and husband Gregg, also Pastor, and their family are frequent visitors to Prattsville, enjoying many holidays with the Jaegers in Huntersfield. On November 3 it is Happy Birthday to Pam Carr and granddaughter Michelle Carr. On November 7 it is Happy Birthday to Cheyenne Robinson, also a granddaughter of Pam Carr. Pam does nice work.

We can always share your news with our readers. Please send your news you want to share to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518-299-3219.

 

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Windham Election

ANN-MARIE RABIN

DEBRA DAILY

IAN PETERS

MARILYN CARRERAS

WAYNE VAN VALIN

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - Windham has been a Republican Party stronghold since memory serves and longer, though that could change in 2026 as the Democratic Party shows signs of invigoration.           

There are three candidates, including one Democrat, for two available town council seats and two hopefuls for one town justice position including a Democratic Party challenger.

DEBRA DAILY

The campaign signs for town council candidate Debra Daily are a particular color for a reason. “My name is on the Democratic line this November, but I am running as an independent with no party affiliation,” Daily says.

“I believe Windham deserves leaders who represent everyone, not just one Party. That’s why my campaign signs are purple - a blend of [Republican] red and [Democrat] blue - a symbol of unity and common ground.”

Daily grew up in Cairo (Cairo-Durham Class of 1978), attending Columbia-Greene Community College for nursing, becoming a surgical technician and currently working as a caregiver for the elderly.

Raising two sons and resettling in the hamlet of Hensonville, Rabin says, “I’m excited to be running for town council. I want to give back to this community that has given so much to me and my family.

“I talk to many people in town. They say they want [government] change in Windham. I know I am a newbie,” Daily says, seeking her first elected post.

“There will be a learning curve. I don’t think I’ll go in and make big changes  right away. We all want to be safe in our homes and provide things for our children to do. I believe I can bring both sides together,” Daily says.

WAYNE VAN VALIN

Wayne Van Valin is an incumbent town councilman, running on the Republican Party line, starting his 30th year in office if re-elected.

“I love this town. I love the people, our way of life and our traditions,” says Van Vallin, explaining why he wants to continue in public service.

He is a native son and 1979 graduate of Windham-Ashland-Jewett school, successfully operating Van Valin Construction and Remodeling over the past four decades. 

Van Valin and his wife Maribel have three children and one grandchild. “We are hoping for a couple of more before long,” he says.

“I believe the reason I’ve been able to stay in office this long is that people are comfortable talking to me over a cup of coffee in the morning,” Van Valin says, crossing paths in a local diner.

An informal conversation in the street is fine too. “People feel free talking to me about things they fear, and I truly want to listen,” says Van Valin, who currently serves as deputy supervisor.

IAN PETERS

Ian Peters is an incumbent town councilman, running on the Republican Party ticket, seeking a third, 4-year term (having initially been elected to fulfill a 1-year unexpired term).

He is a 2007 graduate of Windham-Ashland-Jewett school, also attending private liberal arts college Simons Rock and Columbia University, earning three college degrees in two years, focusing on computer sciences.

Peters and his wife Natasha have two daughters, both attending WAJ, representing the 7th generation of family members in the community.

“I originally ran for office to bring a new generation of people to the town council,” Peters says, “and someone who would be technologically competent, helping bring the town forward,” in the Digital Age.

“I think I understand the town well,” Peters says. “If re-elected, I want to work to get [proposed local zoning rules] over the finish line.

“And I look forward to continue working with the Windham Foundation on many projects,” Peters says. “They are a good partner,” assisting with the creation of little league baseball fields and other recreational opportunities.

ANN-MARIE RABIN

Ann-Marie Rabin is running for town justice on the Democratic Party line, saying, "Windham's strength lies in its community. I am committed to preserving its spirit and integrity.”

Rabin was raised in the Bronx, earning her degree from CUNY Law School in the late 1980’s, learning the ropes working with Bronx Legal Aid.

One of six children, her father died when she was fourteen. “It was difficult for my mother and my family but because of that, I know what it’s like for people to deal with various issues,” Rabin says.

“I know criminal law inside and out. I can apply that knowledge and my own background to be humble as a judge. I will know how to sit and really listen, to discern what is true and not true, fair and not fair,” Rabin says.

After moving fulltime to the mountains, Rabin served with the Greene County district attorney’s and public defender’s offices. 

She served as Tannersville village attorney, becoming immersed in legal issues surrounding the Department of Environmental Protection and the creation of a community bike path, helping move the project forward. 

“I love the law and especially Constitutional law. I believe my education and life experiences make me more than qualified for this job,” Rabin says.

Rabin, saying, “I am a proud member of the Windham community for more than twenty-five years, emphasizes that, if elected, “I will bring knowledge and compassion for people to the office.”

MARILYN CARRERAS

Marilyn Carreras is running for town justice on the Republican Party line, having been appointed to the bench on January 1, 2025, to fulfill an unexpired 4-year term upon the retirement of Carol Stevens.

“I love this job,” says Carreras. “It allows me to use my legal experience in making clear, fair and balanced decisions that deeply impact people.”

Carreras is originally from New York City, securing a law degree in 1982 from Fordham University, serving an internship with the U.S. Attorney’s office before joining a law firm in lower Manhattan.

Over her career, she has specialized in general practice and trials, divorce and custody law, real estate law, mortgage, probate and wills, estates administration and traffic, preparing her for the bench.

Carreras worked both as a public defender and prosecutor before moving to Windham fulltime in1987, starting her own practice and creating a local law guardian program, advocating for children.

“I have always felt a sense of service to the community,” Carrera says. “I have found that knowing the law is very important in this position.

“New laws are always coming down from Albany, so I spend fifteen hours a week, researching and learning, which I love to do,” Carreras says.

“This allows me to provide an understanding to folks about why court decisions are made which, to me, is very important,” Carreras says.

 

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