The Claverack Democrats Fri, Mar. 26, announced its selection of candidates for town board and clerk, as well as its endorsement of incumbent Columbia County Judge Richard Koweek. According to a press release, the committee's goal is to change town leadership. “Claverack has an opportunity this year,” said Stephanie Sussman, committee chair.  “Our town developed a Comprehensive Plan for the future in 2008, but most of the goals outlined in the plan were never realized. We need new leaders to update Claverack’s Comprehensive Plan and actually do their job to get it done. Claverack’s future is on the ballot.” The committee is supporting Kathleen Proper [PRO-perr] for Claverack Town Supervisor. Proper is a lifelong county resident, and has nearly 20 years of experience in the field of human resources. She has implemented programs both locally and internationally. The committee also endorsed Brenda Shufelt and Brian Yorck for two open town board seats. If elected each would serve a four-year term. Shufelt is a native of Columbia County, had a career in public education, was involved in her school union, and recently retired as Program Director of the Hudson Area Library. Yorck, is a native of Claverack and a lifelong Columbia County resident. He has experience in emergency services, oversight of the use of government property by utility providers, and securing revenue sources for government. He is a former Ancram Town Magistrate, volunteer fireman, and Democratic Committee member. The committee also endorsed Nat Drake for Claverack Town Clerk and Tax Collector. Drake, an artist and educator, has been living in Philmont for almost a decade, where he has worked as a teacher of music and art. The Claverack Democrats also endorsed Koweek, who is seeking his second ten-year term. Read more at claverackdemocrats [dot] org.