Reading and recommendations from Carissa Unite of Oblong Books
Carissa Unite, general manager of Oblong Books in Millerton.
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Court tests meaning of equal justice
Kathy Herald-Marlowe
Jun 16, 2026
“We want a Supreme Court which will do justice under the constitution – not over it. In our courts we want a government of laws, not of men.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt
John Roberts was nominated to replace Sandra Day O’Connor as a justice on the Supreme Court in July 2005 – three days later Rehnquist died and Roberts was nominated for Chief Justice as his replacement. The most vocal Democratic resister to Roberts’ confirmation was the new Senator Barack Obama who contested that though Roberts would be unquestionably qualified for 95 % of Supreme Court cases, he would be lacking for 5% of cases requiring depth and width of empathy – Roberts was for the strong over the weak. Roberts was confirmed 72 – 22. Four years later, January 20, 2009, Roberts bungled the Presidential oath of office at Obama’s inauguration, the oath was redone on January 21. Both men had been president of the Harvard Law Review – Roberts in 1978 and Obama in 1990.
In 2005 the Supreme Court enjoyed approval ratings over 60% - comfortable, respectable. In 2026, their approval rating is 42%, disapproval 57% - nearly a full reversal. The Court has lost the trust of a majority of the nation, 69% are in favor of term limits for Justices versus lifetime appointments. The stability of the law is in question. Many cases have been overturned, some cases have been decided with extraordinary outcomes for money in elections, for immunity from prosecution for the executive.
In 2010, the Supreme Court announced a decision, so contentious that it had to be re-argued, that overturned bans on corporate independent expenditures to favor unlimited corporate expenditures in elections. In 2016, total expenditures on Presidential and Congressional elections was up from $7 billion in 2008 to $18.3 billion boosted by super PACS and dark money whose donors were non-disclosed. Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission has transformed campaigns and impacted election outcomes. The Roberts Court ruled 5-4 with Roberts writing the opinion.
Voting rights have been struck down by three Supreme Court cases: Shelby County v. Holder (2013), Students for Fair Admissions v Harvard (2023) and Louisiana v. Callais (2026). The first decision eliminated requirements that certain states with histories of discrimination obtain federal preclearance before changing their voting laws. The Harvard case bans Affirmative Action for admissions. The final Louisiana decision limits the Voting Rights Act.
Roberts in his opinion in 2013 wrote: “The conditions that originally justified these measures no longer characterize voting in the covered jurisdictions.” The Roberts Court ruled 5-4 then 6-3.
Dobbs V Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned Roe v Wade reaffirmed by the Supreme Court on four occasions. The Roberts Court ruled 6-3 with a scathing majority opinion written, leaked by Samuel Alito. Abortion is favored by 80% of Americans.
The nation continues to reel as the Supreme Court ruled that all former presidents possess absolute immunity for their core constitutional powers and immune from all official acts. The decision is broadly opposed as it undermines the principle that no one is above the law. The Roberts Court ruled 6-3 with the majority opinion written by Roberts.
Supreme Court overturned decisions have also impacted guns as well as the separation of church and state. An unusually high quantity of case have resulted in “shadow docket” findings which have no vote by the Justices, no explanation, no opinion. Additionally, the Supreme Court has overturned a surprising number of lower courts decisions in favor of the current administration.
The conclusion of the 2025-2026 Supreme Court season is upon us. Expected is another major decision regarding birth right citizenship now guaranteed in Section 1 of the 14th Amendment. Unexpected may be the unfurling of a gigantic Trump poster on the Supreme Court’s 92-foot “greek-temple” on First Avenue in DC. The Trump poster currently on the DOJ is 88 feet long – so a duplicate fits here even though such a Trump image would cover the west facade’s declaration of“ Equal justice under law.” Not all would be bothered or even notice.
“Members of the Supreme Court have lifetime tenure because they’re not suppose to do politics.”
Ben Sasse
Kathy Herald-Marlowe lives in Sharon.
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Let's hear it — June 18, 2026
Olivia Montoya
Jun 16, 2026
This Week
Fireworks have long been part of Fourth of July celebrations, lighting up the night sky in towns across the country. But in recent years, drone light shows have become an increasingly popular alternative, as communities weigh safety concerns, fire risks, noise complaints, environmental effects and changing state and local regulations.
What do you think about this changing tradition? Should communities hold on to fireworks, embrace drone shows or find room for both?
Send your responses to publisher@lakevillejournal.com by Monday, June 22 at 10 a.m. or comment on Facebook or Instagram.
We’ll publish a selection in next week’s paper.
Last Week’s Question
How much does experience matter? What about independence, new ideas or a willingness to challenge the system? What makes someone an effective representative for your community?
“Im seeing some issues with how Hodge has managed some things but I’m more concerned about an elected official chairs an energy committee and accepts donations from energy companies and representatives.”
— Darrick Spears
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Letters to the editor — Thursday, June 18
Millerton News
Jun 16, 2026
A case for Sam Hodge in the Democratic primary
I’ve voted for Didi Barrett in every election for the last 14 years, but I’ll be voting for Sam Hodge in the June Democratic primary.
As someone who knows Sam, I believe he is better suited to serve our community in the Assembly. Good elected officials need judgment, integrity, authenticity, the ability to listen, and a willingness to take on difficult challenges. Sam checks every box.
When Sam became Chair of the Columbia County Democratic Committee in 2021, Democrats held little countywide power. Under his leadership, Democrats elected two sheriffs, a district attorney, judges, coroners, and helped send Pat Ryan and, later, Josh Riley to Congress. Fundraising records were broken, and races were won, but what impressed me most was something less measurable: Sam gave people hope. He energized volunteers, built a stronger organization, and helped people believe they could make a difference. The results speak for themselves and offer a preview of the type of Assembly member Sam will be.
Outside politics, Sam has dedicated his career to public service. As a Special Victims Prosecutor, he handled domestic violence, child abuse, and sex crimes cases, stood with survivors, and held offenders accountable. It was difficult work that demanded compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to justice. Those qualities matter in public office.
I’ve also been fortunate to know Sam as a friend. He’s hardworking, quick to smile, kind, reliable, thoughtful, and genuinely motivated by helping others. What you see is what you get.
As for this Assembly race, I believe it’s time for a change.
I respect Didi Barrett’s years of service, but I don’t believe she should be reelected. It is a matter of public record that, while serving as Assembly Energy Chair, she accepted tens of thousands of dollars from utility and energy company PACs. It’s a conflict of interest. Democrats rightly criticize the influence of money in politics. We shouldn’t ignore it when politicians on our side of the aisle cash the checks.
It’s time to elect a new generation of leaders. Albany and our politics need fresh perspectives, new energy, and a renewed focus on delivering results.
When Sam engages with voters, I’m struck by his curiosity, thoughtfulness, and genuine commitment to solving problems. He approaches challenges with a determination to improve people’s lives. At a time when the cost-of-living crisis is worsening, we need leaders who are independent of corporate influence, effective, and unafraid to fight for what’s right.
The challenges facing New York today demand new ideas and strong leadership. I know Sam; I can say with confidence that he is ready to serve and deliver. He will be an outstanding Assemblymember. Vote for Sam Hodge on June 23.
Lloyd Marks
Claverack
Party leaders should stay neutral
On June 3rd I, and apparently every Democrat in District 106, received a “personal letter from the desk of Michael Dupree, Chair of the Dutchess County Democrats.” It was a blatant use of his position of power to canonize Didi Barrett and put down Sam Hodge. As a leader in the party, that crosses a line that should not have been crossed. Actions like this are why the Democratic Party [not the individual Democratic candidates] has the lowest approval rating of any party and any candidate.
Primaries are an opportunity for voters to have choices in who they feel will best represent them and push hardest to serve their needs. Party officials need to respect that not everyone looks for the same thing in their elected officials and not pressure them in their choices. Many are ready for change in Albany and that may be uncomfortable to some. The letter I received insinuates that Sam doesn’t understand how Albany works. Actually, I would say he knows how Albany has worked for far too long and he’s running to work for the change that so many of us desperately want to see.
Louise Meryman
Pine Plains (Shekomeko)
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After painter’s death, friends reflect on a life rebuilt
Christian Murray
Jun 16, 2026
LAKEVILLE — Friends and coworkers say Michael Moore spent years rebuilding his life.
Now, they are grappling not only with the loss of a friend and employer, but with the loss of a father whose life had come to revolve around his 7-year-old son, Lucian.
The 40-year-old painting contractor was killed June 1 in Ashley Falls. Authorities allege that fellow painting contractor Cole Bushnell was responsible. Bushnell, 41, has pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder and is being held without bail.
Friends say Moore had overcome addiction, regained custody of his son and built a business that employed people who, like him, were trying to get back on their feet. He was also talking about marriage after more than six months in a committed relationship.
For many who knew both Moore and Bushnell, the allegations remain difficult to reconcile. The two men had known each other since their days at Housatonic Valley Regional High School, worked together for years and remained close friends.
“They were best friends,” Moises Reyes, a painter who was employed by Moore, said.
Friends say Moore and Bushnell spoke daily, shared workers on larger jobs, consulted one another on estimates and occasionally helped each other financially when business slowed.
One friend and fellow painter, who has known both men since childhood but didn’t want his name disclosed, said Bushnell served as a mentor to Moore as the younger contractor built his own business.
“Cole was like a mentor to him,” the friend said. “Whatever job one got, they would run it by the other.”
Friends said it was not uncommon for the two men to loan each other money when cash flow tightened, a reality of running small contracting businesses.
“I saw it both ways,” the friend said. “Mike would help Cole. Cole would help Mike.”
That history has left many searching for answers.
“I don’t understand how it happened,” the friend said.
Rebuilding his life
Those closest to Moore acknowledge that he struggled with addiction during his younger years and had several encounters with the criminal justice system. But friends say those challenges became the foundation of a turnaround.
After becoming sober, Moore focused on rebuilding his life, establishing his own business and gaining sole custody of Lucian nearly four years ago.
“He got clean. He got his son back,” said Joey St. John, who worked for Moore but had been friends with him for nearly a decade.
Friends describe that achievement as one of Moore’s proudest accomplishments. They say much of what he did in recent years revolved around creating stability for his son. Lucian’s mother, they said, had her own personal struggles.
A father first
By all accounts, Lucian was the center of Moore’s life.
Friends describe him as a single father whose daily routine revolved around his son. He dropped him off at daycare in Winsted most days and picked him up at the end of the day.
Friends say Moore worked hard to regain custody of Lucian and was devoted to raising him.
“Lucian loved his daddy more than anything,” said Jacklyn Evon, whose husband grew up with Moore and was a friend.
Her husband, Bryan, attended Kellogg Elementary School in Falls Village with Moore in the 1990s, when there were only about 10 children in the grade, with just three being boys.
“They were like brothers,” she said, noting that Moore gave a lively speech at their wedding.
Following Moore’s death, friends and family members have rallied around Moore’s son.
Evon launched a GoFundMe campaign noting that Moore was Lucian’s sole caregiver, provider and primary source of support. The fundraiser seeks to help cover counseling, educational expenses, daily needs and long-term financial support for the boy.
“No amount can replace Michael or erase the pain of this loss,” the fundraiser states. “However, together we can help ease some of the burdens that now lie ahead for Lucian.”
The GoFundMe had generated about $18,000 in a week, with about 150 contributors.
Evon said that Lucian has a strong foundation but there is uncertainty ahead.
Moore’s death has also left his workers grieving and uncertain about the future.
Many of the people Moore employed were themselves rebuilding their lives after addiction, incarceration or other setbacks.
Reyes said Moore gave him an opportunity after he completed rehabilitation in 2025 and began trying to turn his life around.
“He uplifted me,” Reyes said. “He pointed me in a better direction. I am completely heartbroken by this.”
Reyes said Moore believed in him and helped him develop skills that allowed him to earn a better living. Reyes was working at Burger King in Torrington before Moore hired him.
“If my motivation went down, he would help me,” Reyes said.
Today, Reyes is still trying to process the loss.
“It’s hard to wake up in the morning and concentrate,” he said, who now has to find a new job. “Every 30 minutes I feel grief.”
Meanwhile, St. John was also recovering from addiction and needed a job. “He’s like, ‘I’ll give you some days, come work for me.’ I said: ‘All right.’”
St. John said he became friends with Moore through their shared love of music and Moore’s passion for playing guitar.
Fernando, who didn’t provide his last name but worked for Bushnell, said he is struggling to process the alleged homicide and is now in therapy. He was the employee who was allegedly shown Moore’s body by Bushnell on June 1.
St. John, who had planned to spend the summer working for Moore, has been making deliveries through DoorDash while searching for another job.
Others remain uncertain about what comes next.
Coworkers say Moore looked after his crew, bought lunch, solved problems and treated employees with respect.
Remembering the man they knew
Many of Moore’s friends say his death came at a time when he appeared to have found a path forward.
They said the timing of his death was tragic, since he had got back on track and had rebuilt his life around his family and work.
“He poured all of his energy into his son,” Evon said. “And whatever he had left, he put into his business.”
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Fallen trees cause power outages in southern Dutchess County
Nathan Miller
Jun 12, 2026
Pawling Road Crews work to clear debris from fallen trees from North Quaker Hill Road in Pawling, New York, after heavy winds felled trees across the area. Six roads are currently closed, causing delays as utility company crews attempt to restore electricity service to customers in Pawling and Dover after a day without power.
Photo provided
This story has been updated.
Heavy winds and severe storm conditions caused widespread power outages Thursday, June 11.Over 600 customers in Dutchess County were still without power in the towns of Pawling and Dover through Saturday.
NYSEG Communications Manager Mike Baggerman said the lasting outage was caused by fallen trees that downed poles and blocked multiple roads, slowing repair efforts. Power was restored by 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 13.
Baggerman said municipal road crews had to clear the roadways so NYSEG crews could re-install poles and restore service.
Severe winds downed trees along Quaker Hill Road, North Quaker Hill Road, Old Quaker Hill Road, Reservoir Road, Hurds Corner Road and Tracy Road in the Town of Pawling, according to the town’s Highway Department.
Baggerman reminded customers to stay away from downed power lines and to alert NYSEG and local authorities when downed trees or lines are spotted. Reports of downed trees, downed power lines and power outages can be sent to NYSEG online at www.nyseg.com/outages or by calling 800-572-1131.
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