MIDDLEBURGH — Middleburgh may be the romantic capital of Schoharie County, as one program gets off the ground. Local residents and visitors are encouraged to vote on who they choose as their favorite couple in the community.

He notices couples from the area and from outside of the region visiting and he realized that “Middleburgh is for Sweethearts.” Out of this, the idea was born.

James Schilling said that he hoped to build upon Middleburgh’s success. He described greeting visitors from out of the area who enjoyed the unique environment of the community. Mr. Schilling noted the strong business community.

 "He and his wife Linda (a Licensed Massage Therapist) previously volunteered, making birdhouses (and offering seated chair massages) to raise money for Cub Scout Pack 30 on the Fourth Fridays. Schilling also said that he sought to bring together visitors and collected gift certificates from around the area to help raise money for a local food pantry. "

With these successes in mind, Mr. Schilling intended to include a raffle for "Date Night / Dinners for Two" at some of Middleburgh's fine restaurants ... which had been a Favorite of the Locals, last year. He was at Middleburgh Hardware getting a key made and brainstorming with his friend, Heather Lawton Vilegi ... She exclaimed "Why not do it here, in MY STORE!" 

Much coffee and popcorn later, they decided to do it in 2 separate events ... Rather than asking for more donations.

James Schilling and Heather Lawton Vilegi agreed that it would be a wonderful way to give back to our beloved community.

Mr. Schilling said that the idea is to promote local shopping. “All participating stores in Middleburgh” can join. Each would put a can with Valentine’s-themed papers allowing for people to vote. Visitors would choose business owners or local figures as their favorite sweethearts.

Participating stores will be listed as polling stations. Each location can have a can and the Valentine cards/slips. In order to vote, a person would have to purchase something from the business. The winning couple will win a free dinner and be named the King and Queen Sweethearts of Middleburgh. The hope is to organize a Valentine’s banquet to celebrate and a venue is still being considered.

The event will be co-sponsored by Middleburgh Hardware and the Facebook Group Middleburgh NY. Anyone interested in volunteering or to know more are encouraged to call Schilling at 518-603-8292