Emilia Teasdale in The Columbia Paper profiles the two candidates running for Columbia County Coroner, Carmen Martino and Bernadette Powis. Martino is running on the Republican and Conservative election lines, while Powis is on the Democratic, Working Families, and Women’s Equality lines. Dr. Andrea Coleman, a Democrat, resigned the position before her term ended, and the Columbia County Board of Supervisors appointed Martino, giving him the incumbent's advantage in the election. Martino lives in Ghent after retiring from the New York State Police after 23 years in law enforcement. Martino admits his lack of medical experience but says, "I have seen first-hand the position requires minimal medical experience and more an investigative background. Having grown up in the community and having existing relationships with law enforcement, funeral home directors, and hospital personnel as well as knowledge of the counties towns boundaries and roadways has made for a smooth transition into the position.” Powis, who lives in Kinderhook, has a AAS in nursing from the Helene Fuld School of Nursing; a BS in Health Care Administration from St John’s University; a MS in Family Nurse Practitioner from Pace University; and post master’s certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Stony Brook University. Voters choose between the two Nov. 6, and incumbent Micheal Blasl is also running unopposed for reelection to his coroner position. Read the full story in The Columbia Paper.