Montgomery County Now - Made of Something Stronger

Episode 14: "Sheriff's Secrets and County's Story Unveiled in Glory"

Episode 14: "Sheriff's Secrets and County's Story Unveiled in Glory"
Recorded on February 6, 2024
OVERVIEW:
Reflecting on the rapid passage of time in 2024.
A peek into recent happenings at the Sheriff’s Office.
Special guest, Kelly from the History Office, shares intriguing insights.
Exciting upcoming events to mark on your calendar.
OLD NEWS:
The week brought a mix of weather, student activities, and community collaboration.Break out your sunglasses! Our social media lit up with the beauty of a sunny day.
Generous donations for our EMS center from Rent-a-Center. Read more
Ice rescue technology training enhanced our capabilities. Details
Proudly celebrated Dare Graduation at Fort Plain. See more
Notable arrests for larceny and drugs this week. Details
A 14-year-old student was in the spotlight at a local school. Learn more
Reminder: If you see something, say something. Let's keep everyone safe!
A plea for safe driving: be courteous, patient, and prepared on the roads.
GUEST: Kelly Yacobucci Farquhar, Montgomery County Historian/RMO
Explore our rich history at Montgomery County Historian/RMO.
Meet the "Knower of All" and delve into Montgomery County's captivating history.
Meet Sarah (Sadie) Wires, the First Female Sheriff for Montgomery County, and only the second in New York State.
Commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Revolutionary War (2025-2033). Kelly is part of the commission working on special programs and promotions.
Dive into local historical sites with year-round events.
Discover that even George Washington spent a night in Montgomery County!
Uncover intriguing tales like the old courthouse built on the residence of the first sheriff, Alexander White.
Did you know that the former sheriff's residence was attached to the jail?
Learn about the significance of 1825, the Erie Canal's 200th Anniversary, and its impact on the county.
Recently uncovered audio tapes from the 1950s provide insights from those who grew up on the Erie Canal.
Montgomery County is featured on the Haunted History Trail of New York State. Explore
Discover our deep connection to the Underground Railroad. In 2023, we were designated an official research facility for the Underground Railroad by the Dept of the Interior.
Delve into the history of our county's name change from Tryon County (1772) to Montgomery County (1784), named after General Montgomery.
Visit the new Sheriff’s department history page celebrating our 240th Anniversary here.
UPCOMING:
Valentine's Day, February 14, 2024!
The Cranesville Firehouse hosts a rose sale on February 12th, 13th, and 14th, from 10 am until 4 pm or until sold out.
Town of Mohawk's Pancake Breakfast is on Sunday, February 11.
The Taste of Amsterdam runs from February 5th to 11th.
Don't miss Tribes Hill BBQ on Sunday, February 11, from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Mark your calendars for Ames Fire Department's Pancake Breakfast on February 18, 2024.

Episode 13 - "Sheriff's Shindig: Snowfall to Community Thrall" ❄️🚓

"Sheriff's Shindig: Snowfall to Community Thrall" ❄️🚓
🎙️ OVERVIEW: In this episode, we recap the highlights from the past few weeks, featuring special guests Rob Spagnola and Michele Pawlik from the City of Amsterdam Recreation Department. Plus, stay tuned for upcoming events and community news!
📰 OLD NEWS:
Recent arrest with pursuit – Get the details here
EMS is hiring – Join the team!
Generous donations from Gabriel Seal Coating, Old Brick Furniture, and Walmart TV
Stay safe on the ice with our ice safety tips
Training update from the DA's office
State Hwy 334 is back open
Congratulations to Gideon Taylor on graduating and entering the field
Sheriff's Winter Conference in Albany
Check out our 2023 report with stats
Canajoharie Central School District
Call volume for traffic – Stay informed!
👥 GUESTS: Rob Spagnola and Michele Pawlik
Discover the City of Amsterdam Recreation Department's exciting events.
From sponsors to residents, they work hard to bring year-round events to the community.
Explore the diverse offerings in Amsterdam, catering to families and children throughout the year.
Find out about the Sheriff's favorite SWIM events and the importance of keeping kids engaged.
Learn how the Sheriff encourages exploration of different parts of the county.
Exciting news: An indoor Nerf Arena is coming in March!
Stay tuned for the new Rec Study.
📅 UPCOMING EVENTS:
Winterfest – Don't miss the fun!
Taste of Amsterdam on February 5 – Savor the flavors!
St. John's Ice Rink Open Skate – Lace up your skates and hit the ice!
Town of Florida Snowmobile Club Pancake Breakfast this Sunday from 8 AM to 12 PM – Enjoy a delicious start to your day.
Join us as we shine a light on our community and its stories! 🌟❄️
#CommunitySpotlight #LocalEvents #AmsterdamNY #SheriffsPodcast

Episode 12: ”Snowy Bliss, Chris’s Tips, and Upcoming Hits” ❄️🌪️🚨

OVERVIEW:
In this episode, we navigate the last few weeks at the Sheriff's Office, welcome Chris Menge to discuss emergency management, and reveal exciting upcoming events! ❄️🚨🗓️
📰 OLD NEWS:
The first winter storm of the season arrived on a Sunday, blanketing the county in snow.
K9 Donations needed to bring in a new four-legged hero for 2024 and 2025.
Snowmobile trails remain closed as we await ideal conditions for safe adventures.
Congratulations to 85 students from Fonda-Fultonville who graduated from the DARE program!
With the New Year comes new opportunities and excitement, including budget planning and office fiscal closings.
Our team has been diligently compiling data for our annual report, covering arrests, call volumes, and more.
We're always ready to answer calls, make arrests, and maintain order, but reckless driving remains a concern, with thousands of speeding violations. 🚔
👤 GUEST:
We're joined by Chris Menge from the Emergency Management Office, who brings valuable insights into the world of emergency preparedness. 🚨👨‍💼
Chris shares how the first winter storm of the year went smoothly thanks to preparedness and partnerships. 🌨️
From winter snow to spring floods, Emergency Management is a year-round endeavor.
Stay tuned for possible blizzard-like conditions and power outages, as heavy winds, rain, and snow melt come into play tonight.
Our Emergency Management Office has received reaccreditation from the State of New York, reflecting our commitment to the highest level of preparedness.
Chris emphasizes the importance of community preparedness in 2024 and provides the contact number for more information: 518-853-4011. ☎️
📅 UPCOMING:
Mark your calendars for these exciting upcoming events! 🗓️
January 13: Soup Fest by Amsterdam Rec Department from noon to five. Taste soups from local restaurants and cast your vote! 🍲
January 21: Habitat for Humanity Chili Contest from 1-3 pm. Savor delicious chili and support a great cause! 🌶️
Throughout the month, fire departments across the county are hosting pancake breakfasts. Don't miss out!
Amsterdam Rotary presents "Princess and Heroes" for a magical experience. ✨👑
Contact us at 518-853-5500 for more details.

Holidays, Felix’s Story, and the New Year’s Glories 🎉📅 Episode 11:

OVERVIEW:
In this festive episode, we celebrate the holidays, honor Judge Felix Catena's remarkable career, and look forward to the New Year's exciting prospects! 🎄🌟
📰 OLD NEWS:
The holidays have come and gone, but the spirit lives on! Check out our live Santa tracker to relive the magic. 🎅✨ Watch here
Attention drivers: State Hwy 334 is currently closed, so plan your routes accordingly.
Our Emergency Management office has received reaccreditation from Homeland Security, making it the first in New York State! 🏛️🌐 Read more
Stay tuned for the upcoming budget announcement.
Our toy drives have been an enormous success, spreading joy throughout Montgomery County.
As always, we continue to respond to calls, make arrests, and uphold the law in our community.
Our annual report is currently in the works!
👤 GUEST:
We are honored to have Judge Felix Catena on the show. He retired after an impressive 31 years in the system, and his dedication to justice has left an indelible mark on Montgomery County. 🏛️🙌
Judge Catena reflects on his years of service, emphasizing the importance of doing what is right and just.
He expresses gratitude for his amazing office staff, including Law Clerk Michael, who has been with him for 20 years.
Learn about the collaborative effort behind streamlining the pistol permit process, benefiting our community.
Judge Catena plans to enjoy retirement by letting the dust settle and embarking on exciting travels.
🔮 UPCOMING NEWS:
Ring in the New Year safely and responsibly on New Year's Eve and Day.
Join us at Soup Fest in Amsterdam on January 13, 2024, for a heartwarming culinary experience.
Support your local Snowmobile clubs and Fire Departments in early January 2024:January 14, 2024: Mohawk Fire Department event.
January 21, 2024: Ames Fire Department event.
Stay cautious and prepared for safe winter driving during adverse weather conditions.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year filled with hope, joy, and success! 🎆🥳

”Yuletime Cheer and SPCA’s Care: Episode 10 is Here!” 🎄🐾🎙️

OVERVIEW:
We're just two weeks away from the most magical time of the year! Join us for the latest updates from the Sheriff's office, a heartwarming chat with Jan Zumbulo from the SPCA, and a sneak peek at exciting year-end events. 🎄🐾🎅
📰 OLD NEWS:
Holiday Support: 🤗 The holidays can be stressful, but remember, you're not alone. Reach out for assistance if you need it, because this season is all about friends, family, and support.
Salvation Army Toy Convoy: 🎁 We collected 1000 toys for Fulton and Montgomery County Sheriffs' offices and first responders. Let's ensure every child experiences the joy of the season! 🚒🚓
Winter Weather Warning: ❄️ Winter weather is creeping in, so drive cautiously and stay safe on the roads. For updates, check out our Facebook post here. 🚗🌨️ Link
Raising Funds for a New K9: 🐕 We're raising funds for a new K9 partner for Deputy Rusty Warner. Let's help bring this furry hero on board! 🐾 Link
Training Updates: 🚔 Training continues, from field training to mental health. We're also on the lookout for new Deputies to join our team.
Shop with a COP Success: 🛒👮‍♂️ Our Shop with a COP event at Amsterdam Walmart was a resounding success! A big shoutout to Walmart for their support. 🎁 Link
Blue Friday Triumph: 💙 Our Blue Friday event at CrossGates was a triumph! We've also been officially reaccredited for having the "Best policies and procedures" for law enforcement, making us the ONLY agency in Montgomery County to achieve this. 🎉 Link
Continued Commitment: 🚫 Arrests and traffic may persist, but our commitment to community safety remains unwavering. Let's respect and support each other as we journey forward. 💪
👥 GUEST: Jan Zumbulo from Montgomery County SPCA 🐾
Jan Zumbulo, past President and Board Member of the Montgomery County SPCA, joins us to discuss their mission. It's not just cats and dogs; farm animals are part of their compassionate care too! 🐷🐮
Learn about their efforts in coordinating care and finding loving homes, even for horses. Their new building is a testament to their dedication. 🏡 Link
Visit them at 1232 State Highway 5S, Amsterdam, NY 12010, and be part of their incredible mission. 🏠
👀 UPCOMING: 📅🎉
Winter Wonderland: ❄️ Embrace the Winter Wonderland here in Montgomery County, where magic awaits around every snowflake.
6th Annual Adopt a Family: 🏡 For just $35, you can feed a family of five and make their holiday season extra special.
23rd Annual Toy Drive: 🎁 Join Chad Majewski in spreading joy through the 23rd Annual Toy Drive.
Tylutki Farms Christmas Drive-Through: ✨ Experience the magic of Christmas at Tylutki Farms in Palestine from 6-9 pm.
Al J Nasadorski Memorial Fund - Holiday Light Train: 🚂 Hop aboard the Holiday Light Train from 6-9 pm.
Ice Rink in St Johnsville: ⛸️ Enjoy skating at the Ice Rink in St Johnsville, a perfect winter activity!
Santa Events Galore: 🎅 Keep an eye out for various Santa events protected by the department, spreading holiday joy throughout the community. 🎉
Tune in to the episode for a dose of holiday spirit and community updates. Stay tuned for the link to the show! 🎄🐾🎅 #MontgomeryCountySheriff #CommunityUpdates #HolidaySpirit

Fonda’s Triumph, Turkey Feasts, and Santa’s East 🏈🍗🎅 -🎙️ Episode 9

Title: "Fonda's Triumph, Turkey Feasts, and Santa's East" 🏈🍗🎅
🎙️ Episode 9 Summary:
OVERVIEW:
In this episode, we dive into Fonda Football's success, holiday giving back, Thanksgiving meals, and Santa's upcoming visits! 🏈🍗🎅
📰OLD NEWS:
Thanksgiving in Amsterdam: 🍽️ We're partnered with Chris Carpenter, City of Amsterdam, to ensure Thanksgiving meals reach those in need. 🦃
Accident Update: 🚑 We've received updates on a recent accident involving multiple felonies. Find more details here. 🚨
Hunting Season Safety: 🦌 As hunting season kicks off, remember to wear your orange and follow all safety rules. Let's keep our woods and hunters safe! 🔶🌲
Football Team Support: 🏈 We've been escorting the football team, showing our pride and support for their accomplishments. Go team! 📣
Salvation Army Toy Drive: 🎁 Bring your toys in for the Salvation Army. Let's make sure every child has a gift to open this holiday season. 🧸
Request Assistance: ☎️ We're here to help. Reach out to us at 518-673-2554 / 518-736-1850 / 518-853-5500 with your calls and requests. 🆘
A Kind Reminder: 🚗 Slow down, be patient, and be kind to one another on the roads. Let's make our community safer together. 🚦
👥GUEST: Mike Mancini and Fonda Fultonville Football Championships 🏆🏈
Mike Mancini joins us to celebrate Fonda Fultonville Football's historic championships. Read more here. 📰
These outstanding young men maintain an average grade of 93 and study their opposition meticulously. 📚📊
With five linemen boasting four years of experience, the team's dedication during the off-season is evident. 💪🏋️
Hear about their pre-game superstitions, including a bundle of chicken wings! 🍗🍗
The secret to their success? Keeping a routine! 🔄
👀 UPCOMING: 📅🎉
December 2, 2023: Shop with a Cop in Montgomery County! 🛒👮‍♂️
December 2, 2023: Elves Day Out in Canajoharie! 🧝‍♀️🎈https://www.facebook.com/events/339808751878941
SPCA Ribbon Cutting - Town of Florida: Join us as we celebrate this new milestone. 🎀🐾
December 9, 2023: Shop with a Cop at CrossGates sponsored by Blue Friday. 🛒👮‍♀️
December 9, 2023: Toy convoy for Salvation Army. Let's spread joy to children in need. 🎁🚛
Santa Events Galore: Keep an eye out for various Santa events in the community! 🎅🎉
 

”November Updates, Mohawks Delight, and the Season Takes Flight” 🍂⚾🦃 - Episode 8

Title: "November Updates, Mohawks Delight, and the Season Takes Flight" 🍂⚾🦃
NEWS:
Honoring Our Veterans: 🇺🇸 November saw us celebrating Veterans Day with events like the Amsterdam parade and the Florida Veterans Park ceremony. We also extend our congratulations to the Fonda-Fultonville champions! 🏆
EMS Applications Released: 🚑 We released applications for EMS positions and received 35 inquiries. Thank you for your support in strengthening our team. 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️
Winter Weather Reminder: ❄️ The season's first taste of winter arrived, reminding us to drive safely on slick roads. 🚗
Crime Updates: 🔍 We issued a press release regarding a Grand Larceny at Walmart, involving theft over $1,000. We've also made progress in drug arrests and confiscated evidence, taking three illegal handguns off the streets. 🚓💼🔫
New Patrol Cars: 🚓 Our new patrol cars are now active and equipped with updated gear. 🛠️
Budget Approval: 💰 The budget for 2024 has been approved, ensuring our resources are ready to serve the community. 💼📈
Recruitment: 👮‍♀️ We're still actively seeking deputy sheriffs for training, as well as cooks, dispatchers, and more to join our dedicated team. 🚀
 
GUEST: Brian Spagnola, Manager of Amsterdam Mohawks 🎙️⚾
Brian Spagnola, Manager of the Amsterdam Mohawks, joins us to discuss their community involvement and the recent induction of an Amsterdam native into the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame. ⚾🏆
Mark your calendars for the Annual Dinner on February 3, 2024, and catch Amsterdam Mohawks games for a fun-filled evening. 🍽️📅
 
UPCOMING: 📅🎉
As we bid farewell to fall, we look forward to the holiday season. 🍂🎁
Don't miss the Thanks4Giving Run/Walk, Thanksgiving celebrations, and opportunities to support the community, including "Adopt A Family" and the Toy Drive. 🏃‍♂️🍗🎄🎁
Join us on December 2, 2023, for "Shop with a Cop" at Walmart and Blue Friday on December 9, 2023, at Crossgates Mall. 🛒👮‍♂️🎁
Plus, enjoy "Elves Day Out" with the Village of Canajoharie, NY. 🧝‍♀️🎈
We value your feedback. Let us know what topics you'd like to hear about! 🗣️🎙️
 
Listen to the episode here:
 
Join us as we catch up on November's events, chat with Brian Spagnola, Manager of Amsterdam Mohawks, and embrace the spirit of the season. Listen now! 🎙️🍂⚾🦃 #MontgomeryCountySheriff #CommunityUpdates #AmsterdamMohawks #HolidaySeason

Thrills, Skills, and Thanks4Giving Chills - Episode 7

Thrills, Skills, and Thanks4Giving Chills
OLD NEWS: 🕰️
Get ready for a spectacular Halloween with tips and tricks.
Stay tuned for exciting drug bust updates! 🚓💊
Trunk or Treats & Amsterdam Halloween Parade are around the corner!
Cheers to escorting the FMCC Woman’s Volleyball Team! 🏐👏
Relive the Sleep Safe Event: Watch Here
Auriesville Shrine Event brought 8,500 visitors to the county! Details Here
Remember, we're always here for you!
GUESTS: 🎙️
Joe Sise, Attorney Extraordinaire: Learn More
Meet Dr. Tom Catena, the real-life hero: Read More | Watch Video
Celebrate the Thanks4Giving event, raising 47K dollars with 700 runners! Over the years, we've raised an incredible 250K dollars.
Get ready for the 2023 Thanks4giving Run/Walk on November 20th: Learn More
A special shoutout to Cranesville Block! Visit Them Here
UPCOMING EVENTS: 📅
There's always something happening in Montgomery County, New York!
Show some love to the little trick-or-treaters this Halloween. 🍭🎃
Join us for the heartwarming Thanks4Giving event on 11/20.
Don't miss the Veterans Day Parade in Amsterdam on Nov 11th at 10 am.
Honor our heroes at the Town of Florida Veterans Day Park Ceremony on Nov 12, 2023, at 2 pm.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner on Nov 23, 2023.
Get ready for exciting winter sports! 🏂🎿❄️
 

Cases Closed, Budget Exposed, and Haunts Imposed - Episode Six

Part One: 📰 NEWS - Cases Closed & Community Updates
🚓 Cracking Cases: Exciting updates on resolved criminal cases! Stay tuned for upcoming press releases with in-depth details on recent events.
👥 Bosses Day Bash: On October 16, 2023, we celebrated Bosses Day, recognizing that we're only as strong as our incredible team.
🎗️ Awareness Advocacy: October marks Domestic Violence & Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join us in advocating for these vital causes.
🚀 Join Our Team: The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is actively seeking new hires, including deputy sheriffs, IT experts, and dispatchers.
🌊 River Rescue Training: Our multi-agency training event on the Mohawk River prepares us for chemical leak incidents, ensuring safety in our community.
🚑 EMT Education: EMT classes continue every Tuesday until February, enhancing our emergency medical response capabilities.
🔥 Fire Safety First: During Fire Prevention Month, our local firefighters are visiting schools to educate our youth on fire prevention.
🚗 Traffic Troubles: Traffic and speed-related issues are on the rise - let's all drive safely and protect our community.
Part Two: 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST - Matt Ossenfort
🏛️ Meet Matt Ossenfort: Gain valuable insights from Matt Ossenfort, County Executive, on a range of critical topics:
💼 Budget Briefing: An in-depth look at the preparation of the county budget, with revenues on the upswing.
💰 Local Tax Impact: Understanding the impact on local taxpayers and efforts to minimize this impact.
🏢 Infrastructure Investments: Updates on the expansion of public safety and DPW facilities, all thanks to state funding.
📊 Budget Building: Insights into the Sheriff's budget submission process and considerations.
🌆 Stability Spotlight: Matt reflects on the county's newfound stability and investments in its future.
💼 Hidden Financials: A discussion about the hidden costs associated with employee hiring and retention.
🛡️ Resource Allocation: The importance of providing department heads with essential resources to ensure success.
👮 State Mandates: A look at the state's mandates and the various services they require from the county.
📆 Budget Season: Get an inside look at the annual budget season, which takes place in September and October.
Part Three: UPCOMING EVENTS
📅 Fall's Eventful Calendar: October promises a host of exciting events in Montgomery County:
🍝 Chicken Parm Dinner at Lorenzos on October 24 - Don't miss this delicious treat!
🎃 Amsterdam Halloween Parade on October 28 - Join us for a spooktacular celebration.
👻 Century Club Haunted House on October 20-21 - Prepare for a hair-raising experience.
🚗 Hill and Marks Trunk or Treat on October 27 - Fun, treats, and creative trunks await.
🥏 Blues & Burbine Disc Golf Tournament on October 28 - A day of thrilling disc golf action.
 
Stay tuned for the latest news and events in Montgomery County! 🌟🏞️

Heists, High-Speed Delights, and Autumn Nights - Episode 5

NEWS - What's Happened
🚔 Partnering Against Larceny in Amsterdam
🍂 Fall Driving Tips - Stay Safe on the Road
📢 Job Opportunities - Join Our Team!
🚗 Tire Recycling Event - Mark Your Calendar for Oct 14
🚑 Fall EMT Training Class - Improving Emergency Response
🤠 Sheriff's Week - Celebrating Our Dedication
GUEST ON SHOW
🏁 Meet Stewart Friesen - NASCAR Driver and Local Hero
🏆 Back-to-Back Wins at the Fonda 200
🤝 Community Commitment - Giving Back Locally
🏎️ Guaranteed Starting Spot for "Super Dirt Week"
FUTURE EVENTS
💜 October Awareness - Supporting Domestic Violence and Breast Cancer Awareness
🌟 Oct 7, 2023 - Wishfest on Bridge St, Amsterdam
🇺🇸 Oct 2, 2023 - Field of Invisible Wounds with Sara Boerenko from Montgomery County Health Department
🍁 Harvest Time - Check Local Events for Fall Fun!