The Catskill Chronicle

MONTICELLO, NY (June 29, 2012) – On May 19 and 20, Guardian Angel Motorsports (GAM) and Monticello Motor Club (MMC) joined forces recently to host the Inaugural GAM/MMC Charity Gala and Performance Driving Experience, raising over $100,000 to support GAM’s Kids In Need, the Saving Teens Collaborative and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

Seventeen drivers opened their hearts and their wallets, participating in two days of spirited driving on MMC’s world-class 4-mile circuit. The event also included a 5-star dinner and charity auction. In return for hosting the event, MMC had the honor of selecting a local not-for-profit organization to receive a portion of the funds raised to help disadvantaged children in the community.

Monticello Motor Club directed the $18,500 donation to help provide at-risk Sullivan County youth access to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts’ free school programs, including transportation and lunch.

“We were thrilled to be a part of this incredible event and look forward to many more in the future,” said Ari Straus, President of MMC. “Through the generosity of our members and the dedication of GAM, disadvantaged local kids right here in Sullivan County will benefit from the arts and history programs available Bethel Woods.”

MMC members Bruce and Linda Ledoux co-founded Guardian Angel Motorsports after discovering their child had a unique genetic disorder just over three years ago. GAM, a 501c3, has evolved into a team of like-minded people who share a passion for motorsports and devotion to help kids in need, raising  hundreds of thousands of dollars for individual families, as well as children’s charities including Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, Franciscan Hospital Boston,  Cops for Kids, Saving Teens, Starlight Foundation, Angel Flight, and many others.

Mike Kerouac, President of Guardian Angel Motorsports and also an MMC member stated, "We are honored and privileged to have such a strong partner in Monticello Motor Club. The generosity and support they provided as co-host of this event was simply tremendous. We all share a passion for motorsports, but most of all we recognize the opportunity to give back to our communities by helping the many challenged kids that struggle coping with the everyday world."

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a not-for-profit performing arts center and museum at the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival in Bethel, New York. As a public charity, donations and grants enable Bethel Woods to offer scores of affordable educational and community programs to 40,000 people annually, including musical performances, lectures and films, interactive arts activities for children and their families and curriculum-based educational programs. This can only be accomplished with support from charitable organizations, community members and businesses such as MMC and GAM.

“We are grateful to Guardian Angel Motorsports and to Monticello Motor Club for this marvelous contribution and for recognizing Bethel Woods’ commitment to engaging people in the arts and civic life,” said Bethel Woods CEO Darlene Fedun. “This gift will assist us in introducing even more of our county’s young people to cultural opportunities designed to improve their abilities to succeed academically, socially and economically – all contributing to the vibrancy of our community.”

Read Full Post »

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 28, 2012) – Kenneth Fisk of Livingston Manor and Gabriela Quintanilla of Liberty are the recipients of the two 2012 Community Unity Scholarships, which are funded by Associated Mutual Insurance Cooperative and Cooperative Federal Credit Union of Woodridge.

To qualify for this scholarship, students must be full-time, have good grades, be involved in community service, provide recommendations and maintain a good behavioral record. In addition, they maintain a 2.5 grade point average during their first year in college, as the award is provided in two increments.

Both students are well rounded individuals, performed well academically, received stellar recommendations and most importantly are very involved in community service.

Mr. Fisk, a graduate of Livingston Manor High School, is a volunteer fireman, participates in litter pluck, volunteered for town clean-up after the recent floods, was captain of the LMHS basketball team and coaches youth basketball and soccer. Kenneth will attend Sullivan County Community College in the fall.

Ms. Quintanilla, a graduate of Liberty High School, was on the LHS softball and soccer teams, founded the Diversity Club, was on the Student Council, is involved with local youth at school and at her church and is an advocate for migrant farm workers and undocumented students, working to make a change in their challenges. Gabriela will attend Dutchess County Community College in the fall.

Read Full Post »

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 27, 2012) – The Professional Women of Sullivan County (PWSC – formally Catskill Mountain Business and Professional Women) held their annual Scholarship Dinner on June 20 at Mr. Willy’s Restaurant in Monticello, NY. 

This year 10 scholarships were presented, five to mature women returning to school, and five to young women graduating from local high schools. 

All recipients will be attending college in the fall of 2012. 

The recipients, pictured are (l-r): Front row:  Rachelle Walker, Rebecca Corcillo, Ann Finneran, Audra Everett, and Bonnie Carnell.  Back row: Kaitlyn Fisher, Shanna Caffery, and Paige E. Maxwell. Not pictured are April White and Nadine Ramdhany.

Ann Finneran, Audra Everett, April White, Kaitlyn Fisher (Monticello HS) and Rebecca Corcillo (Sullivan West HS) received the Professional Women of Sullivan County Award. Bonnie Carnell received the Jean Rosenheck Memorial Award; Paige E. Maxwell, the Reverend Martha Finn Award; and Shanna Caffery, the Selma Green Memorial Award.   Nadine Ramdhany (Sullivan West HS) received the Cooper-Neiman Award, which is presented to a student entering the field of accounting.

Rachelle Walker (Monticello HS) received the Margaret Hazen Memorial Award. This is the inaugural award of this scholarship. Margaret was a board member of United Way of Sullivan County. PWSC worked together with United Way to raise funds and pick the award winner. The organization is very excited about this cooperative effort and is looking forward to developing more in the future.

For more information about the Professional Women of Sullivan County send an email to professionalwomenofsc@gmail.com.

Read Full Post »

HIGHLAND LAKE, NY (June 25, 2012) – NACL Theatre will host DIGit,  a 3-day “salon exhibition” on July 6, 7, 8  at NACL Theatre, 110 Highland Lake Road, Highland Lake, NY.

DIGit is a multi-media art exhibit curated by Pat Carullo celebrating the convergence of performance with poetry, drawing, video, painting, fiber and ceramic art, sculpture, photography and sound.

Hours are: Friday July 6 from 7:00 –9:00 p.m. (reception); Saturday July 7 from Noon to 9 p.m.; Sunday July 8, Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Admission is free and the works are for sale. Reservations are not required.

Curator, Pat Carullo explains his vision, ”Our culture has been totally transformed by the digital revolution, yet the Visual Arts still cling to the physical world and remains frozen within a sorta materialism. You will see how this is changing…and you’ll dig it!”

DIGit will celebrate nature and technology, featuring work that focuses on the  sublime beauty of the Upper Delaware River, as well as the contributions of Apple Computer. Many of the featured works use dozens of iPads and iPods, vintage computers, big and small LED HD screens, blank canvasses, discs, and mini-projectors embedded within the art work.

The exhibition will present the diverse and ecclectic work of collaborating artists living in the Catskill Mountains and Upper Delaware River Valley watershed regions including: Brett Keyser & the NACL Company, Kazzrie Jaxen & the Drummers, Anthony Biancoviso, Ph.D, Daria Dorosh, Ph.D, Sally Rowe, Marcia Nehemiah & Pat Carullo, Eleni Smolen, Sandy Long, Lloyd Parker, Armand Agresti, Larry Braverman, David Soete, John Tomlinson, and Joyce Ellen Weinstein.

For more information on DIGit go to: http://www.SortaKindaLikeArt.org/

For more information about NACL go to: http://www.nacl.org

(Photo: Art work by Pat Carullo)

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (June 25, 2012) – At the Catskill Mountain Chapter of Hadassah’s Installation/Pot Luck dinner, new officers were installed by Amy Solomon, Incoming Organizational Vice President. 

The new officers pictured are: (l-r back row) Linda Bernstein, Ida Richter, Marilyn Stein, and Lauren Miller; (middle row) Florence Messenger, Brenda Stiefel Sherman, Diane Moss, Renee Kates, Debbie Glatt, and Linda Eckers; (front row) Fanny Valenstein, Lynne Freedman, and Marilyn Sperber. 

Caren Caplan, President of the Lower NY State Region of Hadassah spoke to the group about the new Sarah Wetsman Davidson Tower at the Hadassah Medical Center in Israel. 

She discussed the high quality of medical treatment given to patients there from all over the world, as well as the ongoing research and technological advances in medicine taking place there. 

At the next meeting, on Wednesday, July 11 at 7:00 p.m., the group will be holding a Chinese Auction at Temple Sholom in Monticello, NY. 

For more information, please contact Lauren Miller at lauren.miller13@gmail.com or 845-794-3962, or Lynne Freedman at mrfreed@aol.com or 845-439-5708.

Read Full Post »

UPPER DELAWARE VALLEY, NY/PA (June 24, 2012) – The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has announced a new 2012 edition of the award-winning “Shop Local Save Land Guide to Farms and Farm Markets.” The guide is an easy-to-read, easy-to-use, easy-to-carry one-stop resource for residents and visitors who desire fresh, healthy, local foods.

At left, Tannis and Simon Swartz of Willow Wisp Farm, an organic farm located in Damascus, PA. Tannis is also one of the principals with NACL Theatre in Highland Lake.

Complimentary copies of “Shop Local Save Land” are available at fine shops, restaurants, farms and farm markets, lodging facilities, Visitors Bureaus and Chambers of Commerce, or may be found at both the PA and NY offices of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, 508 River Street in Hawley, PA and 120 Segar Road in Kauneonga Lake, NY.

The brochure features 22 pages of essential information about farms, farmers’ markets and stands, and community gardens that produce and sell local agricultural products. The guide includes a keyed map for easy navigation and for creating road plans to visit several farms in a day trip.

At right, Apple Ridge Farm, located in Saylorsburg, PA, selling their products at a local farmers’ market.

The companion website, www.ShopLocalSaveLand.com, provides searchable listings as well as interesting articles, upcoming events in the area, and a tool to design your own driving tour of farm and forest providers in the area.

Shopping locally sustains the Upper Delaware River region’s local agricultural economy. As any local farmer will attest, making a living from farming and from marketing local farm products is hugely challenging. Under pressing economic concerns, acres of productive farmland every year are lost to housing and industrial development.

For more information about the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, visit www.DelawareHighlands.org, email info@delawarehighlands.org or call 570-226-3164 or 845-583-1010. For more information about the 2012 farm or forestry guides visit http://www.ShopLocalSaveLand.com.

Read Full Post »

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 23, 2012) – The Catskill Chronicle is on a brief hiatus due to a family high-school graduation. Enjoy your weekend.

Read Full Post »

Kiwanis Club of Woodridge officers and scholarship winners (l to r (front): Sue Kasofsky (President), Aileen Halchak (Scholarship Committee Chair), Elmer Serrano, Isabel Mijia, (rear) Irvin Lemus, Sorouk AboHussien, Charles Marsden.

WOODRIDGE, NY (June 22, 2012) – The Kiwanis Club of Woodridge held their Annual Scholarship Dinner last week at the Woodridge Family Restaurant. 

The award recipients were Shorouk AboHussien daughter of Tony and Mai AboHussien, Irvin Lemus son of Mauricio and Lillian Lemus, Charles Marsden son of Paul and Jill Marsden, Isabel Mijia daughter of Carlos and Virginia Mejia and Elmer Serrano son of Lidia Espinoza.

Aileen Halchak, Scholarship Committee Chairperson spoke about the program, telling the audience that, in 2000 the Club awarded two scholarships for $250.00 each. Since then, with the hard work of the members and the support of the community, the Club is now able to award five scholarships for $1000.00 each. 

Since 2000 they have awarded 62 scholarships, assisting students in the entire Fallsburg School District with their higher education. The awards are based on academics, need and service to the school and community. All recipients this year are seniors graduating from Fallsburg High School.  President Sue Kasofsky presented the awards.

Shorouk AboHussien will be attending NYU and majoring in Biology. She plans to be a pediatrician.  She has participated in sports, food drives and blood drives and tutoring.

Irvin Lemus will be attending Orange County Community College and will major in Liberal Arts. Irvin has participated in a church related Bible study class for children, toy drive wrapping Christmas presents and raised funds for Breast Cancer Awareness month with Interact.

Charles Marsden will attend SUNY Oswego and will major in Business Management. He has volunteered at the Halloween Haunted House at Jellystone Park, participated in the Youth Walk for the Homeless, was a gardening assistant with Woodridge Renaissance, raised money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand and Heart-a -Thon, and is the current Key Club President.

Isabel Mejia plans to attend Mercy College and major in Teaching. She has tutored Hispanic students learning English, helped the Home Economics teacher by translating kitchen safety to Hispanic students and participated in blood drives.

Elmer Serrano will attend Orange County Community College and major in Telecommunications.  Elmer is very active in his church teaching children community service and is a musician.

The group received a surprise when Kiwanian Lt. Governor Sue Sheehan, who was also in attendance, presented Charles Marsden with the New York District Kiwanis Scholarship, a very special honor.  Charles’ grandfather, Warren Marsden was a member of the Owego Kiwanis Club in the Susquehanna Division, and was also a Lt. Governor in 1975.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (June 21, 2012) – The SUNY ATTAIN Lab (Advanced Technology Training and Information Networking) has as its goal to provide educational and occupational skills that can lead to meaningful employment for underemployed and underserved populations throughout our communities. ATTAIN increases community access to education, training, and technology for individuals and employers.

The SUNY ATTAIN Lab at Sullivan County BOCES in Monticello will host a Microsoft Summer Institute training program.

The lab will be providing free training in the following Microsoft Productivity Programs: Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, and Access. In addition to free training, we will provide a free voucher valued at $85 to take the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification exam.

The lab will also be training individuals to become a Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) in the following areas: Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, Windows Server, Windows Operating System, Web Development, and Database Administration.

Classes begin on Monday, July 2, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the SUNY ATTAIN Lab at Sullivan County BOCES, St. John Education Center, 22 St. John Street, 1st Floor, Monticello, NY.

The classes are open to all residents of New York State.

The SUNY Research Foundation partners with the Sullivan County BOCES Adult Educational Program to offer free access to new technologies, education, and technology training through the ATTAIN Lab. We provide ongoing access to education, workforce development training, computer training, and internet access providing services and activities leading to Job Preparation and Computer Skill Certifications facilitating not only job searching, placement, retention and promotion, but also academic achievement and economic stability.

The summer institute is a great opportunity for individuals to receive an industry recognized certification to improve their career prospects in this competitive job market and/or prepare them for academic success and advance into secondary education.

Visit www.attain.suny.edu and/or www.scb.sunyeoc.org for additional resources, or call 845-295-4908.

Read Full Post »

NARROWSBURG, NY (June 19, 2012) – Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History has announced an expansion of its regular weekend schedule to allow participation in Narrowsburg’s annual Fourth of July celebration.

At noon on Wednesday, July 4, General George Washington, as portrayed by BAR reenactor Paul Brennan, will offer a dramatic reading of the "Declaration of Independence" to the costumed interpreters of the the Cushetunk settlers, the first Europeans in Western Sullivan County. 

At 12:30 p.m., Sullivan County Historian John Conway will speak on "The Declaration of Independence and the Upper Delaware River Valley." 

"When the Declaration of Independence was read to the public in the summer of 1776, it was not universally cheered," says Conway. "Some historians estimate that as many as one-third of the colonial settlers maintained their loyalty to Britain, and that was certainly the case here, where Cushetunk resident Robert Land would become one of the most noted Tories of the Revolution."

Conway will examine the impact of the Declaration of Independence on the Cushetunk settlement and how it affected the region for years to come.

At 2:00 p.m. some of the Fort’s interpreters will leave their living history demonstrations of candle making, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, musketry and gardening to line up for the community’s traditional parade that steps off at 3:00 p.m.

Holiday hours at Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the last tour leaving at 4:00 p.m.

As always, colonial reenactors (in costume) are heartily invited, and admitted free.

For further information, call 845-252- 6660.

Read Full Post »

BETHEL, NY (June 19, 2012) – After a hiatus of three years, a re-imagined Day to Be Gay Festival returns to the Catskills on Saturday, July 14. 

The Festival will take place both inside and outside at the Catskill Distillery next to the Dancing Cat Saloon at 2037 State Route 17B in Bethel, NY.

Scheduled to run from 11:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. (rain or shine), the Festival features live entertainment, a “Dog of the Day” contest, as well as delicious foods and refreshing drinks for sale through the Dancing Cat Saloon. In addition, several dozen of the area’s best crafts people and specialty food merchants will also have booths with an array of products for sale.

The live bands and entertainment featured at the Festival include: Stacy & Friends from 12 Noon-1:00 p.m., Music by cast members of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show from 1:00 – 1:15 p.m. (At Forestburgh Playhouse July 10-22), The Raddyos from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. and Andrea Wittgens from 2:30 – 3:15 p.m. All times are approximate.

The “Dog of the Day” contest will run from 12:00 until 3:00pm and the winner will be announced at approximately 3:30 p.m. The first place winner will receive a day of grooming courtesy of Dog Mountain Lodge. Second place winner receives a basket of doggie treats and gifts. Donations for the Dog of the Day contest will benefit the ASPCA.

Admission is $10. A parent or guardian must accompany children under 12 and the child’s admission is free.

A BBQ, which includes a selection of two entrees: Bourbon Pork, Ribs, Peace Vodka Chicken or burgers with corn on the cob and three salads and soft drinks is available for $25 plus the cost of admission. A cash bar, beer tent – serving mixed drinks as well – will also be open.

No picnic baskets or liquor can be brought into the Festival, and purchases of liquor and beer inside the Festival will require a photo ID.

The Day to be Gay Festival is an initiative of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance of the Catskills – GALA Catskills – which is the operating group of the Day to Be Gay Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) not for profit organization, and the original founders of the Day to Be Gay Festival.

Exhibitor booth spaces are limited and some booth spaces may still be available. For booth space information only contact: Jim Lomax: galacatskills@gmail.com.

For more information about the Day to Be Gay Festival visit: www.galacatskills.org or call 845-252-6868.

Read Full Post »

Legislation Establishes Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs to Prevent, Investigate and Prosecute Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable New Yorkers

NEW YORK STATE (June 18, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver have announced an agreement on legislation to establish the strongest standards and practices in the nation for protecting people with special needs and disabilities.

The legislation creates a new Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, an initiative that will transform how the state protects over one million New Yorkers in State operated, certified or licensed facilities and programs.

The Justice Center will have a Special Prosecutor and Inspector General for the Protection of People with Special Needs who will investigate reports of abuse and neglect and prosecute allegations that rise to the level of criminal offenses. It will also include a 24/7 hotline run by trained professionals, a comprehensive statewide database that will track all reports of abuse and neglect and a statewide register of workers who have committed serious acts of abuse who will be prohibited from ever working with people with disabilities or special needs. The information obtained by the Justice Center will also provide the means to analyze abuse pattern and trends in order to prevent future abuse and provide a basis for the training and supports that program managers and direct care workers need to meet their critical responsibilities.

Last year, there were more than 10,000 allegations of abuse and neglect against New Yorkers with special needs and disabilities in state operated, certified or licensed facilities and programs. However, the State has never had a consistent and comprehensive standard for tracking and investigating complaints or punishing guilty workers.

The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs will have primary responsibility for tracking, investigating and pursuing serious abuse and neglect complaints for facilities and provider agencies that are operated, certified, or licensed by the following six agencies: The Department of Health (DOH), the Office of Mental Health (OMH), the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), and the State Education Department (SED).

Other components and responsibilities of the Justice Center include the following:

· An Executive Director, Special Prosecutor and Inspector General, and a substantial staff of trained investigators, lawyers and administrators. The Justice Center’s law enforcement branch will have concurrent authority with district attorneys to prosecute abuse and neglect crimes committed against such persons.

· Creation of a statewide 24/7 hotline staffed by trained professionals to ensure that allegations of abuse are promptly reported to law enforcement and fully and effectively investigated.

· Development of a register of workers who have committed serious or repeated acts of abuse who will be prohibited from ever being hired again in any position where they would work with people with disabilities or special needs.

· Representing the state at all public employee disciplinary cases or those where the state is seeking termination of employment as the penalty.

· Development of common standards for investigations and requirements to be used to train investigators.

· Development of a code of conduct containing the basic ethical standards to which all individuals working with people with special needs and disabilities would be required to subscribe and would be held accountable.

· Consolidation of background check procedures, including reviewing and evaluating the criminal history for any person applying to be an employee, volunteer or consultant at any facility or provider agency operated, licensed or certified by OMH, OPWDD, and OCFS in a position where a background check is required.

· Providing an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature concerning its work during the preceding year which will include data on central register reports, results of investigations, types of corrective actions taken, results of its review of patterns and trends relating to abuse and reporting of abuse, suggested corrective actions and training efforts.

The bill will also provide for re-designation of an independent agency to conduct protection and advocacy and client assistance functions, in conformance with federal provisions governing oversight of the state’s system of care for persons with disabilities.

An Advisory Council of at least 15 members will be created to provide guidance to the Justice Center in the development of policies, programs and regulations. Members will include persons with experience in the care and treatment of, or advocacy on behalf of, individuals with disabilities, as well as individuals or family members of individuals who have participated in programs or received services from provider agencies under the jurisdiction of the Justice Center.

The new law will also replace confusing and inconsistent definitions of abuse and neglect in various laws and regulations with a single consistent standard applicable to human services systems.

The new law also will enhance criminal penalties for endangering the welfare of people with disabilities and special needs and strengthen a prosecutor’s ability to prove that any of these individuals in a facility operated, licensed or certified by the State were the victims of sexual abuse.

New Yorkers can learn more about the Justice Center at www.Justice4SpecialNeeds.com
The Justice Center legislation was developed, in part, from recommendations outlined in The Measure of a Society: Protection of Vulnerable Persons in Residential Facilities Against Abuse and Neglect, a special report prepared by Mr. Clarence Sundram, the Governor’s Special Advisor on Vulnerable Persons. A copy of this report is available  at: http://www.governor.ny.gov/assets/documents/justice4specialneeds.pdf

Read Full Post »

Photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (June 17, 2012) – Just one week ago, on June 10, the Monticello High School Gymnasium was a flurry of activity as hundreds of students from the Monticello Gymnastics Club took part in the 28th Annual Exhibition.

Headed up by world-famous Pedro Tweed, the club encompasses a multitude of ages from Tiny Tots on up to high school and beyond.

In all, there were 20 routines, including a performance by the Creative Expressions Dance Studio of Roscoe, NY. The show was emceed by Betsy Conaty and Ebony Anne Isaac sang The Star Spangled Banner.

Here are some photos from the Exhibition, followed by a link to the full album of 339 photos on The Catskill Chronicle’s photo site.

View Full Album

To see more photos from 28th Annual Monticello Gymnastics Club Exhibition, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Read Full Post »

CLARYVILLE, NY (June 17, 2012) – Catskill Mountainkeeper will be the beneficiary of an intimate afternoon supper at Neversink Farm in Claryville, NY. 

Tour the farm while sampling cuisine and non-alcoholic beverages sourced from the Catskills – all prepared by Chef Patrick Connolly. 

There will be food stations by the river, the cut flower field, the barn, the pasture, and the vegetable field. 

For the kids there will be friendly chickens and donkeys to pet. 

The afternoon’s event is sponsored by Main St. Farm and will feature food and beverages that have been sourced from some of the region’s finest producers. 

All proceeds go to support the Agricultural Program of Catskill Mountainkeeper.

The Afternoon Supper will be held on Saturday June 30 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Neversink Farm in Claryville, NY. Space is limited, so early ticket purchase is highly recommended.

For a description of the event’s food preparation, and to purchase tickets, click here.

For more information, and for directions to Neversink Farm, click here or call Catskill Mountainkeeper at 845-482-5400 or Neversink Farm at 845- 985-2519.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Read Full Post »

HUDSON VALLEY, NY (June 16, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced $35.6 million in grants to five hospitals and nursing homes in the Mid-Hudson region, continuing efforts to transform the state’s health care system to improve patient care, reduce costs, and ensure that all New Yorkers have access to quality treatment.

The grants are made available through New York State’s Health Care Efficiency and Affordability Law (HEAL NY). Statewide, the $301.1 million in HEAL NY grants will help 40 hospitals and nursing homes across the state improve primary and community-based care, eliminate excess bed capacity, and reduce over-reliance on inpatient care in hospitals and nursing homes.

"As a result of the hard work of the Medicaid Redesign Team and our actions to transform the state’s health care system, we have already taken important steps toward reducing costs and improving care for patients," Governor Cuomo said. "These grants to hospitals and nursing homes in the Mid-Hudson region will help our health care facilities deliver better quality care in a more efficient and cost effective manner so all New Yorkers have access to the best care possible when it is needed."

The awards are allocated through the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and are part of nearly $3 billion in funding that has been invested in health care reform through 20 separate HEAL NY phases over the past seven years.
The grants announced today will help implement recommendations from Governor Cuomo’s Medicaid Redesign Team, including enabling health care facilities to deliver more efficient, higher quality care through restructuring, merging, and realigning operations.

Additionally, the awards will help develop collaborative projects among health care providers and will support capital projects, such as the conversion of hospital inpatient space to outpatient and ambulatory care and inpatient nursing home capacity to other less-restrictive forms of long-term care.

DOH received a diverse group of applications from throughout the state. Additional funding will be made available in future rounds to support additional projects including efforts to help develop a high-quality, financially secure and sustainable health system in Brooklyn.

Senator John Bonacic said: "These smart investments in healthcare will increase the quality of patient care. I am very pleased in particular with the funding awarded to Catskill Regional Medical Center. I appreciate the tremendous work of that hospital’s staff and board in the successful revitalization of the hospital."

Assembly Member Aileen Gunther said, "This funding provides a windfall for Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris, which is receiving $12.6 million, and Sullivan County Adult Care Center in Liberty, which will receive over $1.1 million. The health care providers of the Hudson Valley have weathered disaster and I am pleased to see them receiving these new resources to help deliver exceptional care and update their operations."

Following is a list of HEAL NY awards for the Mid-Hudson region:

Catskill Regional Medical Center $12,600,000
Field Home-Holy Comforter $8,000,000
Sullivan County Adult Care Center $ 1,130,000
Sound Shore Medical Center of Westchester $11,900,000
St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers $ 2,053,042

~~~~~~~~

County Thanks Dedicated Officials, Staff for Efforts on HEAL Grant

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY – County Manager David Fanslau would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated County Legislators and employees, both former and current, responsible for the development of the County’s successful HEAL Grant application. It was announced today that the New York State Department of Health has awarded Sullivan County $1.1 million for improvements to the County nursing home located in Liberty.

“Thanks to the efforts of our Legislators and staff, the County will receive much needed funding to improve the efficiency of our Adult Care Center, and provide higher quality care to its residents,” said Fanslau.

The development of Sullivan County’s HEAL Grant application was a collaborative effort between Legislators and several County departments. Legislator Kathy LaBuda and former Legislator Ron Hiatt provided unwavering support for the grant initiative. Members of the current Legislature, which took office in January of this year, followed through with the efforts initiated by LaBuda and Hiatt.

A special thank you goes to James Galligan (former Administrator of the Adult Care Center), Catherine Rauschendorfer (current Administrator of the Adult Care Center) and their staff; Commissioner Robert Meyer of the Division of Public Works and his staff; and Arthur Hussey and Victoria Goddard of Grants Administration, who worked countless hours in coordinating and packaging the final application. It must also be noted that the efforts of Priscilla Bassett and the Senior Legislative Action Committee (SLAC) were instrumental in the County’s success, and the County extends its sincerest appreciation to this organization.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Read Full Post »

WASHINGTON DC — Following up on a report in “The New York Times” that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s administration is pursuing a plan that would permit hydraulic fracturing in parts of New York, Congressman Maurice Hinchey today urged the governor to take a series of 10 steps before even considering the possibility of any natural gas drilling in the state. The congressman praised the governor for his thoughtfulness on the issue, but said that more steps need to be taken to adequately protect the environment and public health from the risks of the controversial gas extraction process that involves pumping toxic chemicals deep into the ground.

"I commend you for the deliberate and thoughtful way in which you have proceeded with shale gas drilling in New York," Hinchey wrote in a letter sent today to Cuomo. "It is clear that you want to make sure people’s water supplies are protected and I applaud the fact that you and your administration have not stood in the way of local communities that have passed hydraulic fracturing bans. However, despite the very hard work of, and sincere efforts by, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to update New York’s rules covering high-volume hydraulic fracturing, serious gaps remain."

Among Hinchey’s recommendations to the governor are: a cumulative impact analysis of the impact hydraulic fracturing would have in the state; a full assessment of public health risks; a comprehensive wastewater treatment plan; a rule to create further distance between potential drilling sites and water supplies; a prohibition on the use of toxic chemicals in all fracking fluids; a rule mandating public disclosure of all chemicals used at each well site before drilling commences; a dramatic increase in New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) resources and staffing to oversee potential drilling; a complete ban on land spreading of fracking waste fluids; alignment of DEC’s gas drilling permit rules with the requirements of secondary lending institutions covering oil and gas activity on mortgaged properties; and waiting for the result of the ongoing EPA study of hydraulic fracturing that the congressman initiated.

Earlier this year, Hinchey urged Cuomo to withdraw the state’s revised draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) on high-volume horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing in the Marcellus Shale and other areas of New York State.  Hinchey said at the time that the current form of the dSGEIS failed to address many of his concerns with the initial draft and also does not account for new information that has been discovered about the environmental, public health and economic risks associated with the natural gas drilling activity.

"We only have one chance to get this right, which is why we must take every possible step to protect the environment, public water supplies, and the overall health of residents from the dangers of hydraulic fracturing," Hinchey said. "Governor Cuomo has taken some positive steps forward to protect communities from fracking, but much more needs to be done before any consideration should be given to issuing permits for drilling."

Hinchey is a leader in Congress of the effort to protect drinking water and the environment from the risks of hydraulic fracturing. He is a co-author of the Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals (FRAC) Act, which would mandate public disclosure of chemicals used in fracking fluid and close a loophole from the 2005 Bush-Cheney energy bill in order to allow the EPA to regulate fracking activities under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The congressman, who is a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and the Environment, also authored the appropriations language that led to the current EPA study on the risks that hydraulic fracturing poses to drinking water supplies.

(Carol Montana, photo)

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (June 14, 2012) – Eight Monticello High School seniors and their families were guests of honor at the Monticello Kiwanis Scholarship Dinner that was recently held at the Blue Horizon Diner.

A total of $9,000 was awarded in scholarships.

The recipients are (from l-r) in photo: Paulina Pavese, Rebecca Martinek, McKenzie Greene, Laurie Schoonmaker, Jessica Nesin, Taylor Santos, Dayanara Torres and Rachelle Walker.

In addition, the Kiwanis Club of Monticello was this year’s winner of the Red Cross Blood Drive Competition beating out the Elks, Rotary and the Monticello Fire Department. Each participating organization made a donation which was given to the winner. The Kiwanis Club chose to distribute their prize by making a  $200 donation to each of the following agencies: The Eugene Nesin Cultural Center (group photo at right), the Monticello Elementary School EPIC Parenting Program, The Literacy Center and the Hudson Valley Food Bank.

For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Monticello, call Lori Benjamin at 794-7050.

Read Full Post »

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 14, 2012) – Members of the Sullivan County branch of the grassroots organization MoveOn are introducing a draft resolution at the Sullivan County Legislature’s public session on Thursday, June 21 at 2:00 p.m.

The session will take place at the Sullivan County Government Center on North Street in Monticello.

MoveOn Sullivan is joining with citizens nationwide who are mobilizing to nullify the 2010 US Supreme Court decision known as "Citizens United."

MoveOn feels that this decision has resulted in unlimited, anonymous funding to political campaigns and they believe this it is a dire threat to our democracy.

In a number of states, counties and municipalities, resolutions have been introduced to garner support for a constitutional remedy to overturn Citizens United.

MoveOn Sullivan’s members encourage the public to join them in presenting their resolution to the Sullivan County Legislature.

For more information call 845-292-4895

Read Full Post »

Story and photos by Carol Montana

ELDRED, NY (June 13, 2012) –  The top 4 percent of Sullivan County’s high school seniors were honored at the 27th Annual Academic Achievement Dinner held on June 11 at Eldred Preserve Restaurant.

Hosted and coordinated by Sullivan County BOCES, the dinner was also attended by school district superintendents, principals, and in some cases, board of education presidents.

BOCES Superintendent Larry Thomas played emcee introducing each school district superintendent, as well as guest speaker, Frederick H. Kuriger, CEO of Catskill Regional Medical Center.

Kuriger (photo right) spoke about his background, and what the world was like in 1970, the year of his high school graduation. 

Following his talk, the students were called up to the podium where they told the audience of their post-graduation plans. Most mentioned colleges, but some spoke of military academies. They then were presented with a thesaurus, courtesy of The Times Herald-Record.

Accompanying the thesaurus was a scroll on which was printed a poem called “The Man Who Thinks He Can” by Walter D. Wintle, which Thomas (photo left) read at the conclusion of the program.

Students honored were: Eldred: Christine Donnelly, Brian Hazen, Erika Bowring; Fallsburg: Aaron Schmitt, Morgan Vegliante, Nicolle Freeman; Liberty: Katherin Heinle, Sydney Goldstein, Peter Koval, James Dapp, Vincent Webbe; Livingston Manor: Maggi Calo, Nina Zheng; Monticello: Erica Cncors, Kaitlyn Fisher, Dan Braunstein, Kristen Druse, Harry Lin, Emily Morey, Jessica Nesin, Jennifer Giza, Stefanie Vieira, Rasheeda McRae; Roscoe: Samanta Molinari, Courtney Banks; Sullivan West: Rebecca Corcillo, Jeff Yeung, Shawn Bailey, EJ Franskevicz, Kristina Sumfleth; and Tri-Valley: Heidi Furman, Olivia Rehm, Julia Spriggens, Gregory Swarthout.

Tribute was also paid to Sullivan West Superintendent, Dr. Kenneth Hilton, who is retiring at the end of the current school year.

To see more photos, or to purchase prints from the 27th Annual Academic Achievement Dinner, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (June 10, 2012) – Monticello Senior Citizens were guests of honor once again at the 5th Annual Alice Kreiter Senior Citizen Prom on Saturday, June 9.

This year’s theme was “Red, White & Blue Star Spangled Stomp,” and emcee Eric Bressi, a.k.a. Elvis’ Lost Brother kept the party hopping and stomping throughout, including a tribute to all the veterans present at tje party.

Guests feasted on an all-American meal of chicken, cheeseburgers, hotdogs, potato salad, cole slaw and ice tea, finishing with a dessert of apple pie and ice cream, all catered and lovingly prepared by a crew from Monticello Meat Market.

The food was cheerfully served by children from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sullivan County: Ashley Campbell, EllenRose Duffy, Sara Sorensen, Robert Rodriquez, Khristonya Mills, Ariana Irelan, Erin Duffy, Sofia Marty, Justin Moore and Kaylynn Champagne, under the watchful eyes of leaders Barbi Neumann-Marty and Lisa Moore.

After dinner, the crowd chose their Prom Queen and King: Lee and Gerry Beckerman, and the children chose their Princess and Prince: Khristonya Mills and Robert Rodriguez.

At the end of the evening, Kathy Kreiter (the honoree’s daughter) thanked a multitude of people included the entire planning committee, the students and the sponsors. 

Below are some photos from the event. To see more photos or to purchase prints from the 5th Annual Alice Kreiter Senior Citizen Prom Honors Monticello’s Seniors, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

View Full Album

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Read Full Post »

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (June 10, 2012) – The cloudy, slightly wet weather was perfect for the fishy goings on at the 9th Annual Trout Parade in Livingston Manor on Saturday, June 9.

Pre-parade pleasures included performances by the Americana band Little Sparrow, balloon animals by Dr. Professor Balloon-a-kiss, face painting by Miss Sunshine the Clown, belly dancing by Ahleana and stilt-walking by Brett Keyser and Tannis Kowalchuk of NACL Theatre.

Then a little after 1:00 p.m., the fish came  marching down Main Street, led by Grand Marshalls and Sturgeon Generals Dr. Don Simkin and Ellen Singer.

Following were a long line of antique and classic cars, several marching bands including The Mountaintones, floats of all kinds, and many, many more fishy folk and flora.

After the parade, there was more music, a rain barrel auction, and food galore from the many vendors along Main Street, who were also selling books, candles, art, jewelry and more.

The 2012 Trout Parade was produced by the Catskill Art Society in partnership with the Livingston Manor Chamber of Commerce and with support from businesses and individuals from around the community. Proceeds from the parade benefit the Arts and Music Programs at the Livingston Manor Central School and Catskill Art Society.

Following are just a few photos from the parade.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from 2012 Trout Parade Brings Out Fishy Critters of All Kinds, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

View Full Album

Read Full Post »

FALLSBURG, NY (June 9, 2012) – The Fallsburg Alumni Association has announced that its Eighth Annual All-Class Reunion and Buffet Luncheon will be celebrated on Saturday, July 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The planning committee in the photo are (l-r): Stuart Wizwer, Ceil Cohen, Eileen Kalter, Renee Kates, Ilene Wizwer, Bonnie Blanchard and Robert Longo.

At the luncheon, three Fallsburg Central School graduates will be presented with Fallsburg Alumni Association (FAA) scholarships. They are Kafifa Javed (daughter of Mirza Shabbir of Woodbourne), Shorouk Abobussien (daughter of Tawfik Abohussien & Etemad Shehata of Woodridge) and Kristene Haas (daughter of Joseph & Dawn Haas of Woodbourne).

Also, the FAA will present the Sheryl Kalter Memorial Scholarship to Lindsay Malman (daughter of Robin Malman of Mountaindale). Additionally, a retired teacher/staff and a community member are chosen to be recognized at this event.

This reunion will take place in the Fallsburg High School, 115 Brickman Road, Fallsburg, NY. The luncheon price is $10 per person. Reservations are suggested. Checks made out to Fallsburg Alumni Association may be mailed to FAA, Fallsburg High School, PO Box 124, Fallsburg, NY 12733 or e-mail ekalter@hvc.rr.com or call 845 434-5371. 

The FAA is hopefully anticipating donations to the scholarship fund (“in memory of” or “in honor of”) in any amount.

Read Full Post »

ROCK HILL, NY (June 8, 2012) – Runners and ramblers from throughout the Hudson Valley will support a great cause during the 20th Annual Rhulen Rock Hill Run & Ramble (R4) on June 16 in Rock Hill. The 5K walk/run will continue to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of America, the R4 Patient Fund, Catskill Regional Medical Center, and other worthy charities.

The event has raised more than $1,000,000 dollars for national and local charities and is one of the longest running road races in the Hudson Valley and Catskills.

“The Rhulen Run & Ramble is a traditional Father’s Day-weekend event that raises people’s awareness of blood-related cancers, and although the event is lots of fun, and focuses on health and wellness, we must remember why we do it — to save lives” said Suzanne Rhulen Loughlin, Race Director and daughter of the race’s honoree, the late Walter Rhulen.

“This year has been a sad one for the R4. We lost several friends near and dear to us—Josh Depew, Tammy Reichenbaugh and Erik Rosen. In their names, we will continue to raise funds to support the research needed to develop cures for blood related cancers and make a difference in the lives of patients.”

The R4 also hosts a bone marrow drive, which began in 2008 when it was learned that 21-year-old Monticello resident Jared Carlew needed a transplant. Sadly, Carlew died before a transplant could be arranged, which happens to many patients because of the lack of available donors.

Last year almost 900 runners and walkers participated in the Rhulen Rock Hill Run & Ramble. This year’s R4 Patient Fund recipient will be Brian Scott, age 50, from Jeffersonville. Brian was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma just before Christmas 2011. He is currently undergoing treatment with Crystal Run Healthcare and Catskill Regional Medical Center. Brian, a single father, resides with his three children, Nicholas, Christopher and Brittney, in Jeffersonville, NY. Funds are raised for the Patient Fund through the sale of raffles. The raffle sales will be used to help Brian offset the costs of medical treatment and expenses. To buy raffle tickets or help sell tickets, please call Resa at 845.794. 3600.

The race begins at 9:00 a.m. at the Frontier Insurance Building on Lake Louise Marie Road in Rock Hill and loop around scenic Lake Louise Marie. On-site registration starts at 7:00 a.m., but race officials are encouraging participants to pre-register by visiting the official race website at www.rockhillrun.com. Pre-registration fee for the Run & Ramble, before June 8, is $22. After June 7th the registration cost is $25. Registration for children 10 and under is $10. T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 900 registrants.

For more information, contact Race Director Suzanne Rhulen Loughlin at 845.796.9811 or log onto: www.rockhillrun.com.

Read Full Post »

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (June 7, 2012) – The premier edition of “Manor Ink,” a new newspaper based at the Livingston Manor Free Library and run by young people, is just off the press and is  available throughout town this week.

The print edition of Manor Ink was timed for release in advance of this Saturday’s Trout Parade and is part of a multi-media news project hosted by the library.

Manor Ink also appears on the web at www.manorink.com and on social media at http://www.facebook.com/LivingstonManorInk.

The 8-page, all-color newspaper was planned and written by kids and young adults in and around Livingston Manor who have been meeting at the library since March.

A group of adult mentors, including library director Peggy Johansen, noted local designer Carolyn Bivins and journalist Barbara Gref has been meeting and advising the news operation. Ms. Gref runs a nonprofit, the Community Reporting Alliance, which is dedicated to promoting local news. The nonprofit has partnered with the library to help produce the print and digital news.

Local mom and substitute teacher Jamie Helper has also been helping to shepherd the project. Ms. Helper approached the library board in late 2011 because she felt the town’s young people needed an outlet for expression and because she knew the town needed news and information. Livingston Manor’s community newspaper and the school’s high school newspaper are no longer in publication.

Not only is “Manor Ink” helping to fill that news void, it is also providing a voice for young people.

In the photo at right, Manor Ink staffers Gem Helper (left) and Britney Young, plan the first issue at headquarters, which is upstairs at the Livingston Manor Free Library.

“Manor Ink is an important newspaper because it’s from the point of view of kids and young adults in Livingston Manor,” said Tyler Young, 17, who is one of the Manor Ink editors. Tyler said all young people are welcome to join. The general age group is 12 to 21 years old, but younger members have already taken part.

“Manor Ink is off and running,” said Peggy Johansen, director of the Livingston Manor Free Library. “With continued hard work, it will be the newspaper of Livingston Manor, a community that has a clear identity, a strong history, and citizens who care about community affairs.”

So far, about 16 young people have been involved in writing stories, taking photos, recording videos, building the website, setting up the Facebook page, selling ads and planning fundraisers like the April 7 car wash and a donations-taking newsstand at the Trout Parade.

Ms. Helper said she is “extremely proud and amazed” at how far Manor Ink has come in just a short time. “A town newspaper seemed like a perfect vehicle to potentially engage a wide range of personalities and talents and provide an outlet for young adults with immediate, measurable results and impact. I wanted the kids to have a tool to empower themselves and reveal their worth to the community.”

Copies of the premier issue are available at no cost at the Livingston Manor Free Library, 92 Main Street in Livingston Manor, and at numerous other locations on Main Street.

And even though the first issue of the paper was free, Manor Ink reporter Ariel Mears (photo left) couldn’t stop people from giving her donations.

Further distribution of the inaugural issue will take place during the 9^th Annual Trout Parade this Saturday, June 9, at 1:00 p.m. Visit their booth, near the Plunk Shop, 39 Main Street.

Inquiries may be made through our Facebook page or at manorink@yahoo.com

Read Full Post »

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (June 5, 2012) – “Finding New Hope Community for her son Jeremy was like a miracle,” says Marianne Goldman, newly appointed Chair of the NHC Foundation and Vice Chair of New Hope Community Board of Directors.

Marianne was very familiar with the Catskills, having grown up in Ellenville as Marianne Ladenheim. After living in Dallas, Texas, where Jeremy was born with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Goldman relocated a few years ago to northern New Jersey.

The highest priority in relocating was to find a good place for Jeremy to live as independently as possible. When she met Dan Berkowitz, Former Executive Director, at New Hope in Sullivan County and toured the grounds, she knew she had found the right place. Soon Jeremy moved into one of the homes located on the Loch Sheldrake campus.

Less than a year into her association with NHC, Berkowicz suggested to Goldman that she would be a great asset to the organization as a member of the Board of Directors. Marianne accepted the challenge. Goldman has also worked as a member of the NHC Foundation for the last five years prior to and up until her recent appointment as Chair.

Established in 1989, the NHC Foundation’s purpose is to raise funds and develop relationships that will enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Read Full Post »

Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (June 4, 2012) – Community Unity of Sullivan County combined forces on June 3 with several other organizations to raise funds for the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless.

Community Unity is a coalition of RISE (Rape Intervention Services and Education), The Federation of the Homeless, The Recovery Center, and the D.R.E.A.M Tank.

Taking place at Mr. Willy’s restaurant in Monticello, another event earlier in the day hosted by WSUL/WVOS featured a family fun day with a bounce house, slide, carnival games, cotton candy and
raffles every twenty minutes.

Beginning at 7:00 p.m. Thunder 102 brought its Brad Paisley Virtual Reality Food Drive and the Texaco Country Showdown to the event. Admission was a non-perishable food item, while other funds were raised with gift-basket raffle tickets.

The Texaco Country Showdown is a national 30-year-old contest open to performers “who have not performed on a record listed in  the national record charts of Billboard, Radio and Records, or The Gavin Report within eighteen months preceding local competition.” Each act pays a $20.00 entry fee “and all contestants must begin their competition by performing at showdowns produced by participating country music radio stations.”

The local contest, sponsored by radio station Thunder 102, featured six performers: Anna Rose Mongiello – a 19 year old, who sang an original song called “All of You”; Lucky House, consisting of Joe Dibisceglie and Dianne Webber who sang “White Liar”; Kaylah, a 13 year old who sang an original song entitled “Anthony”; Vice President of the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Cathy Paty who sang “Broken Wing”; 14 year old Jennifer Grace who sang the original song “ Redneck Prince Charming”; and 12 year old Mikke Zip who sang “Johnny & June.”

A uniform judging system employed by all judges for the Texaco Country Showdown ensures fairness. This year’s judges were: “Big John” Davis, lead singer of Iron Cowboy, Gabrielle Scott – Marketing Manager from Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Jonathan Fox – River Reporter columnist, and Marcum Stewart and Andrea Villarreal of the country music group Acklen Park.

In between the songs, contestants were interviewed by Thunder 102 radio personality Michelle Semerano.

When all the tabulations had been made, Cathy Paty was declared the winner of the local Texaco Country Showdown. Paty now goes onto a state final at the Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville on August 25, 2012. First runner-up was Mikki Zip and second runner-up was Lucky House.

The Brad Paisley Virtual Reality Food Drive is part of the performer’s current  tour, where select venues will be collecting food for local food banks with one lucky person winning a meet and greet with Paisley.

Following the Showdown were performances by last year’s winner Jason Casterlin, and rounding out the evening was Acklen Park.

Community Unity’s Raise the Roof Campaign is raising funds to rehabilitate the building that houses the Federation for the Homeless. Built in the 1950s as the Jewish Community Center, the building is showing its age, with certain parts of it, quite literally, crumbling. It is in desperate need of a new roof, structural and electrical repairs.

This event was only one of several held each year to benefit the Federation for the Homeless. An annual Food Raiser is held in January to raise funds to assist the Federation in its mission. To find out more, call the Federation at 845-794-2604.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Raising the Roof with the 2012 Texaco Country Showdown, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Read Full Post »

LIBERTY, NY (June 3, 2012) – The Sullivan County Pregnancy Support Center, located at 155 North Main Street in Liberty is launching “Project: Life Support” to encourage families, individuals or churches to take action to support needy mothers, children and babies that are assisted by the Support Center.

“Most of the clients who visit the center are mothers of young children and babies, and pregnant mothers, who are in need of material items to provide proper clothing and hygiene for their children,” said Kathy Lounsbury, Executive Director of the pregnancy support center which opened in August 2004 in downtown Liberty. “We have a tremendous need for various items to provide the help that our clients need, including Size 4 and 5 diapers, pull ups, boy’s clothing up to size 2T, baby wipes, baby bottles, pacifiers, diaper bags, strollers, high chairs, pac and plays, baby carriers, bathing supplies, boy’s shoes up to size 3, or money.”

A rally for Project: Life Support will be held on Saturday, June 9 at the Liberty Free Methodist Church at 2535 Route 52 (Chestnut Street) at 7:00 p.m.

Items can be placed in baby cribs in the lobby. The rally will include an evening of hymn singing, special music and refreshments. Additional information can be obtained on the Facebook page for Sullivan County Pregnancy Support Center.

For additional information or questions, please call the center at 845-292-2224 or Kathy Lounsbury at 845-985-2923.

Read Full Post »