Dr. John P. Hamels

Dr. John P. Hamels has been recently endorsed by the Chautauqua County Democratic Committee to run for County Legislator for District 19 — Barcelona, Ripley, South Ripley, Shore Haven, Town and Village of Westfield. Earlier he received the endorsement of the Working Families Party.

Hamels is a retired educator, musician, and media personality who is actively involved in researching the mysteries of Nova Scotia.

He is best known for the following roles:

— Oak Island Researcher: He is a prominent figure in the Oak Island mystery community, co-producing the YouTube video podcast “Oak Island Plus” alongside author James A. McQuiston.

— Media Host: He hosts and produces “Chautauqua Sunrise,” a weekly cable TV show and video podcast based in Mayville, New York, where he discusses a variety of topics including local history and regional mysteries. He is completing his 12th year on the air.

— Educator: A retired school superintendent from Ripley, New York, he holds a Ph.D. in Education from Walden University and has served as an adjunct professor at Jamestown Community College.

— Musician: Performing under the name “Doc Hamels,” he is a veteran folk, rock, and country musician who plays guitar, mandolin, and the Irish bouzouki.

Hamels has more than 50 years of public service to Chautauqua County beginning in 1974 when he started his teaching career as a Special Education Teacher for the then, Chautauqua County BOCES. Through his 29 years with BOCES he moved up through administrative posts at both the LoGuidice and Hewes Center which culminated in being tapped for Regional Administrator for all BOCES services in southern Chautauqua County. From there he was appointed Superintendent/Chief School Officer at Ripley Central School from which he retired.

Over the years, Hamels was elected to positions on the Ripley School Board for 16 years, Ripley Town Board, Ripley Fire Commissioner and Ripley Public Library. Additionally, he has served as Chairman of Chautauqua Opportunities Inc., Chairman of the Westfield Memorial Hospital, Chautauqua County Planning Board and President of the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club. Presently he serves as the Chairman of the Chautauqua County Ethics Board, Secretary on the Chautauqua County Board for the Office for Aging Services and Board Member for the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation.

“My main focus is to look for ways to bring our community to a healthier standard of living. Presently we are the second poorest county in New York state and access to services needs to improve. The cycle of poverty must be turned around and the root causes dealt with. We have the resources and talent to do this as long as we can all get on the same page. I have the experience and skill set to help to do just that.” stated Hamels.