The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 30, 2014) – Listeners who tune in to Sullivan County’s #1-rated morning show on Thunder 102, will hear a slight   change beginning Tuesday, September 2. Long known as “Ciliberto and Friends,” the show will change its name that day to “Ciliberto & Semerano.”

Thunder 102 broadcasts from its studio at the Colonial Square Mall in Liberty, NY. The name change reflects the continued and ever-increasing popularity of Michelle Semerano who joined the program just five short years ago.

The new “Ciliberto & Semerano” on Thunder 102 will continue building on its awarding-winning tradition. Unique in the Hudson Valley, the show, hosted by Paul Ciliberto and Michelle Semerano, features national and local celebrity co-hosts, on-air and telephone interviews, and a wide-range of information on community, business, media, charitable and social issues, interspersed with news and weather reports, as well as up-to-the-minute emergency information.

Sullivan County, NY is also known as “Thunder Country,” and the community support Thunder 102 provides to the area is what makes the station unique. Vince Benedetto, owner of Thunder 102’s parent company, Bold Gold Media Group, has been quoted on more than one occasion saying, “Radio is what happens in between the music.”

No radio station offers more proof of that than Thunder 102. Just a sampling of the organizations that have received support from Thunder 102 include: the American Red Cross, Boys & Girls Club of Northern Orange and Sullivan Counties, Autism Speaks, St. Baldrick’s, Relay for Life, Sullivan County food pantries, Sullivan Renaissance, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Toys for Tots, Sullivan County CASA, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and hundreds of other local and national organizations and charities.

Supportive of other media in the area, the Thunder 102 morning show also provides weekly updates from The River Reporter, The Times Herald-Record, and the Catskill Chronicle.

Not content to broadcast from behind the safety of the microphone, Ciliberto and Semerano also get out into the community, appearing at hundreds of events each year. Both recently took part in the ice-bucket challenge to raise money for ALS, and helped to raise over $66,000 at this year’s Boys & Girls Club Celebrity Dinner.

In addition to numerous other awards, Ciliberto was the recipient of the SYDA Foundation’s Community Service Award, and Semerano has been honored for the past few years as Special Guest at the Sullivan County Retired Senior Volunteer Luncheon.

Just one year ago, Semerano was named Thunder 102 Program / Music Director.

“Michelle is such a big part of the show, and we think the name of the show should reflect that,” said Ciliberto, who also serves as the station’s NY Market Manager & General Manager.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 28, 2014) – The many contributions of farmer and environmental leader Dick Riseling will be honored 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, at a tribute featuring music and locally sourced food at Catskill Art Society, 48 Main Street, Livingston Manor.

Riseling, a proprietor at Apple Pond Farm in Callicoon Center, is known for his work in developing renewable energy projects throughout the county and for his leadership as the past executive director of Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development (SASD), which is organizing the event. Listeners of public radio station WJFF know Riseling for his call-in talk show, “Connections,” on local and national topics. He is also the author of the “Greening Sullivan” column, which appears regularly in the Sullivan County Democrat newspaper.

The Needmore Brothers will play. Wine and local beer will be available. Suggested donation is $25; all proceeds will benefit Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development, the non-profit organization which works toward renewable energy options and a sustainable future for Sullivan County.

To make a reservation, contact Kathie Aberman at 845-292-4895 or kmaberman@gmail.com. Those who can’t make it to the event can still donate to Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development in honor of Dick Riesling by going to SASD’s Facebook page and use the Paypal link for a secure online donation.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (August 27, 2014) – Labor Day is on its way and so is the annual Livingston Manor Labor Day Festival and Parade.

This year’s event will be held on Sunday, August 31. The parade takes place on Main Street in Livingston Manor, followed by entertainment and more at Renaissance Park, located at the intersection of Main and Pearl Streets (at the traffic light).

The Festival begins at 11:00 a.m. with musical entertainment on the Renaissance Park stage, and the old-fashioned country-style parade starts at 12:00 noon.

This year’s theme is “Children, Chocolate and Cheer” and Grand Marshal Steve Dill with Family and Friends will lead the parade with his psychedelic VW beetle, chocolate kisses float and the Giant Chair.

Also in the parade will be Livingston Manor’s own MountainTones Marching Band, cars from the Any Make, Any Model Car Club, cheerleaders from several Sullivan County Schools, Livingston Manor celebrity Lee Seigel, the Livingston Manor Library Summer Reading Program marchers, LightEXPO Hula Hoops, the “Regards to the Man in the Moon Puppet Show” and much more.

Following the parade is a brand new addition to the Festival, an all-star youth talent show with a grand prize of $100. And there’s still time to enter – just call the Livingston Manor Library at 845-439-5440 to find out how to register.

Additional entertainment will be provided by the Backseat Drivers Band, The Janice Center, Jim Red Fox storytelling, LightEXPO Hula Hoops, Lorena the Spanish Dancer, Steve Levine on the banjo, Van Morrow, playing the typewriter, and the Regards to the Man in the Moon Youth Puppet Show.

The party continues till 4:00 p.m with old-fashioned children’s games and prizes, children’s crafts, and vendors including the colonial-style gifts from Fort Delaware, Naomi’s Dolls, Manor Ink, Native American Jewelry by Jim Red Fox Sarles, wooden toys, dolls clothes, Mike Ranze’s silk-screened t-shirts, wildlife photos by Gloria Wagenknecht, information from Catskill Mountainkeeper, and children’s authors Clara Gillow Clark, Helena Clare Pittman and Lindsay Barrett George.

Don’t forget the Colossal Book Sale featuring bargains galore on books for the whole family.

Food vendors will offer spring rolls, pad Thai noodles, sesame chicken, pulled pork, hot dogs and drinks, Pete’s hot dog cart, the Livingston Manor 8th grade bake sale fundraiser and, of course, chocolate.

Three lucky winners of the Livingston Manor Labor Day Festival & Parade raffle will take home a quilt throw donated by Nancy Matrafailo (first prize), a crocheted afghan made by Sarah Madison (second prize) and a baby blanket  made by Dina Johnson (third prize). The drawing will be held on Sunday, August 31 in Renaissance Park, at 3:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $1.00 each or six tickets for $5.00 at the Livingston Manor Library.

Another new feature is the “Chocolate Walk.” Ongoing prior to the Festival & Parade up until August 30, each of the following locations will have different chocolate bars on sale to benefit the library. Visit each location, match the chocolate key, submit your completed chocolate map to the library or bring it to the festival and be entered into a drawing for a surprise gift. Participating locations where you can pick up a “Chocolate Walk” map and purchase the chocolate bars are: the Livingston Manor Free Library, Will Hardware, Beth’s Headquarters, Catskill Mountainkeeper, Johnny’s Barber Shop, the Wildlife Gift Shop, Helen’s Barber Shop, Willow & Brown, Morgan Outdoors and Madison’s Restaurant.

The Livingston Manor Labor Day Festival & Parade is sponsored by the Livingston Manor Chamber of Commerce, Jeff Bank, with special support from the originator of the DeBruce Labor Day Parade, Steve Dill.

Admission is free, and all the fun starts at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 31. Proceeds will benefit the Livingston Manor Free Library. For more information, contact the library at 845-439-5440.

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ELDRED, NY (August 25, 2014) – The Laugh Tour returns to Sullivan County on Sunday, August 31 at 9:00 p.m. with headliner Jessica Kirson star of The Tonight Show, The View, VHI, LOGO, and Comedy Central.

Hosted by Rich Kiamco, star of The Howard Stern Show, Good Day NY, The Wendy Williams Show, BRAVO, WE-tv, SIRIUS XM and more, and featuring Tom Dillion from AXSTV and Kate Wolff from 
NickMom, Bethenny, TruTV, and CW.

The show takes place at Hennings Local, 1040 Route 55 in Eldred.

Jessica Kirson’s unique style and powerful stage presence captures the attention of audiences everywhere she performs. She’s received the MAC Award for Best Female Comic in New York City. Once you have seen her amazing talent, it is easy to understand why she was selected to perform at the Hamptons, Toyota, Marshall’s Women in Comedy, and Las Vegas comedy festivals. She has been featured on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Nickelodeon’s Sixth in the Suburbs, Noggin’s LOL, VH1’s Awesomely Bad Hair, Awesomely Bad Love Songs, Oxygen’s Can You Tell?, Bravo’s The Great Things About Being, The Women’s Television Network’s She’s So Funny, NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Seasons 2 + 3, Last Call With Carson Daly, regular appearances on The Joy Behar Show, and two appearances on The Tonight Show. Jessica’s hilarious characters and amazing crowd work are nothing short of spectacular and she will be undoubtedly be wowing audiences across the country for years to come. http://www.JessicaKirson.com.

Host Rich Kiamco’s comedy career began with a sewing machine at the Fashion Institute Of Technology, where he performed his first stand-up routine at the dorm talent show. Later that year later he met Judy Tenuta and became her costume designer and eventually began performing with her as her back-up dancer in Las Vegas, on The Howard Stern Show and venues nationwide. He received the Overall Excellence Award in Solo Performance at the NY Fringe Festival + Best Solo Performance at the Montreal GLBT International Theatre Festival and has performed on campuses and venues across the USA, Canada, China and the Philippines. Rich was featured on BRAVO’s Queer Eye For The Straight Guy, co-hosted the WE channel’s 3 Men And A Chick Flick, has had multiple appearances on OutQ Sirius XM Satellite Radio, was interviewed on FOX’s Good Day NY and recently appeared on The Wendy Williams Show.

Kate Wolff is a stand-up comedian and host whose humor is honest, slightly self-deprecating yet positive and high energy. Kate has no shame when it comes to talking about her experiences on being a single mother, her divorce, and being a teacher. She is a new castmember on Tru Tv’s hit TV series, "World’s Dumbest", and was just on this season’s of NickMom’s Night Out on Nickelodeon. Kate also has two shows on parentsociety.com, and was recently featured in the Huffington Post. She performs almost every night at clubs throughout Manhattan. She is a regular at Broadway Comedy Club, Stand Up New York, and Laughing Devil Comedy Club. She has been in the Boston Comedy Festival, 360 Comedy Festival, and The Laughing Skull Festival.

There is no drink minimum at Hennings Local, and if you want to eat before or during the show, be sure to call the restaurant to make a dinner reservation at 845-557-8122.

The show is rated PG-13 to R for some adult language and content.

Tickets are available at 1-800-838-3006, and at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/801765, $20 Advance [phone or internet] and $25 at the door

For more information, visit The Laugh Tour at www.TheLaughTour.com

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HURLEYVILLE, NY – PRASAD Children’s Dental Health Program has been presented with the 2014 Give Kids a Smile Award, given by the New York State  Dental Foundation.

The award is in recognition of the program’s excellence in caring for the oral health care needs of children in Sullivan County. 

Since 2007, the New York State Dental Foundation (NYSDF) has given its Give Kids a Smile Award (GKAS) to recognize programs which provide oral health care for children.

Laura Leon, Executive Director of the New York State Dental Foundation, presented the award to Dr. Cecilia Escarra, Program Administrator of PRASAD CDHP. Ms. Leon commented, "It is unusual for the NYS Dental Foundation to give the award to an organization more than once. Today, PRASAD CDHP is receiving the award for the third time, which is a testament to the good work that PRASAD is doing to help children and mothers receive dental care despite the obstacles of the rural community. There is tremendous support from the stakeholders and leadership in the community, which bolsters PRASAD’s efforts to advocate for oral health." PRASAD CDHP previously received the award in 2009 and 2011.

The mission of PRASAD CDHP is to improve the dental health of children by providing comprehensive, high quality dental services including education, prevention, detection, and treatment. Since 1998, PRASAD CDHP has addressed the dental needs of children who are six months through eighteen years of age in Sullivan County and parts of Ulster County, New York. 

PRASAD Children’s Dental Health Program, a philanthropic expression of the SYDA Foundation, provides dental care services and dental health education to children in Sullivan and Ulster counties. For more information, visit us atwww.prasadcdhp.org or call 845-434-0376.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 22, Monticello, NY – Hudson River HealthCare (HRHCare ), a nonprofit, federally qualified healthcare system offering a range of medical services for underserved areas throughout the Hudson Valley and Long Island, is teaming with the Sullivan County NYConnects to present a free six-week Healthy Choices program, starting September 8.

Healthy Choices is a series of six workshops for adults and caregivers dealing with any ongoing health condition such as diabetes, pain, arthritis, memory loss, depression or high blood pressure. When attending this program participants will get help with:

· Finding practical ways to deal with pain, stress and fatigue.

· Use of medicine and decision making.

· Discovering better food and exercise choices.

· Learning better ways to talk with your family and doctor about your health.

· Feeling more confident in managing your health.

All participants in the Healthy Choices workshop will receive a free book to use during the workshop as well as a relaxation CD. If you or your loved one are planning to attend, kindly RSVP by September 4^th to Martha Scoppa, Sullivan County Connects, at 845-807-0257 or martha.scoppa@co.sullivan.ny.us to ensure your spot.

The workshops will be held between 1:00 and 3:30 p.m. on Monday afternoons at 2 Jefferson Street, Room 2, in Monticello. The dates are September 8, 15, 22, 29, and October 6 and 20.

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About HRHCare

HRHCare (Hudson River HealthCare, Inc.) is a non-profit, New York State licensed, Federally Qualified Health Center. Founded in 1975 to provide care to the medically underserved population of Peekskill, NY, HRHCare has grown to include:

• 25 health centers and mobile health systems delivering care throughout a 10 county region of New York to a culturally and racially diverse patient population of 100,000, with more than 400,000 patient visits annually.
• A full range of services including family/internal medicine, women’s health care, pediatrics, dentistry, behavioral health care, optometry, podiatry, and nutritional counseling.
• An innovative organization structure that works to improve the health of communities through a network of partnerships: with businesses, social service organizations, housing cooperatives, food banks, farm workers alliances and community organizations.

For full information: www.hrhcare.org or 1-844-HRH-CARE.

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PSA Sends Powerful Message to Motorists in Honor of NYSDOT Worker Who Died in a Work Zone

NEW YORK STATE (August 21, 2014) – The state of New York has issued a new video public service announcement to remind motorists to drive safely in highway construction work zones. The PSA begins to air this week and features the wife and family of Gary Farrell, a maintenance worker for the New York State Department of Transportation, who was hit by a vehicle and killed while flagging traffic in a work zone.

“Motorists should always exercise extra caution when traveling in work zones – and today we’re amplifying that message to ensure the safety of New Yorkers both behind the wheel and on the job,” Governor Cuomo said. “Sharing the story of Gary Farrell is an important way to remind New Yorkers to remain alert and careful when driving through work areas. My heart goes out to Gary’s family for their loss, and it is my hope that together we can make the roads safer for all.”

The video PSA can be viewed HERE.

Last year, there were 525 accidents in work zones, resulting in two fatalities and 149 injuries. NYSDOT advises motorists to follow simple rules in order to ensure safety in work zones, including slowing down, obeying signs and being alert and cautious while driving through them. In New York State, fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. In accordance with the Work Zone Safety Act of 2005, convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver’s license.

Gary Farrell, of Holland Patent, Oneida County, was just 48 in November 2009 when he was struck and killed while working on a NYSDOT maintenance job. He left behind his high school sweetheart and wife of 14 years, Michele, and three children, James, Devyn and Alexander. Gary was a family man, volunteer firefighter and outdoorsman who loved to hunt. He had considered taking the day off work to take care of a personal matter – dealing with a deer he had shot while bow hunting the previous day – but did not want to leave his work crew short-handed. So he went to work, promising to be home by noon. Gary was killed at 1100 a.m.

Michele’s message to motorists is simple: People need to be aware. Don’t just slow down in work zones, but be aware of your surroundings. The workers are trying to make the roads better for you to travel on. They’re just out there doing their jobs and want to come home to their families. It’s so hard to tell your children that their father was killed. No one should have to go through that.

NYSDOT Commissioner Joan McDonald said, “The people who work for the State Department of Transportation and our contractors literally put their lives on the line every day when they go to work, all in an effort to make the roads and bridges of New York State safer for motorists. Gary Farrell’s story is a tragedy, and it underscores the need for drivers to pay attention in highway construction and maintenance work zones because it is a matter of life and death.”

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Online training gives New Yorkers basic knowledge of how to prepare themselves for disasters and emergencies

NEW YORK STATE (August 20, 2014) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that the Citizen Preparedness Corps training is now available in a condensed version online. This training takes the basics of the in-person Citizen Preparedness Corps training course and allows people to view a shortened version on their computer or mobile device.

“Over the past few years, extreme weather patterns have made one thing perfectly clear in New York – we must do everything we can to prepare our communities to respond in the event of a disaster,” Governor Cuomo said. “The Citizen Preparedness Corps gives New Yorkers the tools and knowledge they need to serve as first responders in their own homes, and by offering training sessions online we are greatly expanding the reach of this important resource and protecting communities across the state. I encourage all New Yorkers to take advantage of this training and learn about how they can become better prepared in the event of an emergency.”

The online training is available at www.prepare.ny.gov/training-events. Users will click on the button that says “Launch Online Training,” then will be directed to a twelve minute video and a short quiz to demonstrate what they have learned.

The New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps training was launched in February of this year with the goal of training New Yorkers on how to prepare themselves, their family and their communities for disasters and emergencies. This training has been created by experts at the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management and Office of Fire Prevention and Control and led by instructors from the Division of Military and Naval Affairs. To date, more than 75 in-person events have been held throughout New York State.

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jerome M. Hauer said, “This condensed training of the Citizen Preparedness Corps training classes is another avenue to reach more people and to make them aware of the importance of having a plan if they are forced into an emergency. Giving citizens a basic understanding of emergency preparedness saves lives and helps first responders and other emergency personnel respond when disaster strikes.”

For more information on the New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps training, visit the website at www.prepare.ny.gov.

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LIBERTY, NY (August 18, 2014) – The Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce had to make a difficult decision to cancel the Liberty Festival and Parade on the Fourth of July due to the continued threat of rain, extreme flooding and weather conditions on the July 4^th Weekend. Safety of the general public, as well as the safety of road crews, firemen and police departments, etc. was all considered in making the difficult decision.

By popular demand all the days activities including the Parade and the Classic Car Show have all been rescheduled for Saturday, August 30 from 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. with more vendors, delicious food, bouncy houses and kids activities by Party Master, a Stilt Walker by NACL Theatre of Highland Lake, music and entertainment all day long by Carl Richards Band with Mr. Phil, plus Jeremy Langdale & Zerena Young on the Main Stage. There will be special guest appearances by Josie Lou as well as Pamela Murphy and the Hudson Valley Fine Arts Singers.

The days schedule of events include The Classic Car Show beginning at 10:30 a.m. the Parade which kicks off at 12:05 p.m. and music throughout the day on the Main Street Stage beginning at 11:00 a.m.. A rain date is scheduled for August 31.

As a special surprise there will be Fireworks at dusk provided by Town of Liberty Jewish Summer Camps. Fireworks will go off over the Cemetery Near Jeff Bank of Liberty and can be best seen from Darbee Lane, Church Street, Oberferst Street and Cold Spring Road.

Vendors include, Avon, Lia Sophia Jewelry, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Origami Owl Jewelry, Pampered Chef, Party Lite Candles/Products, Plexus, Skinny Wraps, Tastefully Simple, Thirty One, Tupperware and more.

The Liberty Labor Day Blast is Sponsored by Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce and the following businesses: Barbuti Furniture Mall, Jeff Bank, Ramsay’s Funeral Home, Town & Country Antiques, Yeshiva Ahavas Israel, M&M Auto Group, Liberty Rotary, Liberty Arts, LLC., Catskill Hudson Bank, Liberty Press, Hamlin Construction, Advanced Medical, Dr. Delgado Chiropractic and ShopRite of Liberty. Please show your support.

For more information on this upcoming event, to join, or to volunteer, please contact us at the Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce by phone at 845-292-9797 or email info@LibertyNYChamber.com. Online at www.LibertyNYChamber.com and Facebook at Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce.

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CALLICOON, NY (August 17, 2014) – The Grover M. Hermann Hospital Auxiliary, along with Catskill Regional Medical Center, will sponsor The Carol and Frank Kay Memorial Children’s Fair at the Delaware Youth Center in Callicoon, NY on Saturday, August 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., rain or shine. The event is honoring the memory of Carol and Frank Kay who passed away in a recent gas explosion in Wayne County. Carol and Frank were avid supporters of the Callicoon Auxiliary and the Grover M. Hermann Hospital.

Admission for the fair will be $5 per child and free for parents, with a maximum charge of $10 per family. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The event will feature many activities including a puppet show; hula hoop contests; digital finger printing; face and tattoo painting; a pet adoption area; an ambulance for families to tour and a nail polish booth. Some of the safety activities will include learning how to properly wear a life vest and how to hike safely. There will also be free giveaways and a special door prize. Lunch will be offered at a cost of $4 and will include baked chicken nuggets or yogurt, cheese, carrots and celery sticks.

The Auxiliary was established in 1971 to promote the Grover M. Hermann Hospital and community relations. Through fundraising, the Auxiliary enhances patient care by purchasing equipment and/or items which directly or indirectly affect the well being and comfort of patients.

Grover M. Hermann’s Auxiliary Board is comprised of: President, Dottie Schlegel, Vice President, Barbara Donatelli, Treasurer, Olga Viruet and Secretary, Laura Bojo.

The Auxiliary meets at 1:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month (March through October) in the Grover M. Hermann cafeteria. If you would like to join the Grover M. Hermann Auxiliary or would like additional information, please contact Dottie Schlegel at 845-932-8487 or Barbara Donatelli at 570-224-8017.

Catskill Regional Medical Center is a member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System (GHVHS). For more information on Catskill Regional’s services, visit www.crmcny.org.

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LIBERTY, NY (August 14, 2014) – The Liberty Museum & Arts Center has announced the schedule for their 13^th annual Catskills Preservation and History Conference, to be held at the Museum on Sunday, August 24.

The theme of this year’s conference is “500 Hotels! Tourism in the Sullivan County Catskills: Past, Present and Future.” 

The full day event includes a driving and walking tour in the morning, and programs and panel discussions throughout the day, culminating in the presentation of the Second Annual Catskills Preservation Award and the opening reception for the “Pollack’s Hotel Exhibit” at 7:00 p.m.

Pollack’s Hotel was a small family owned resort in Liberty, and Marion Windt, one of the last of the family to operate the resort, and a member of the Museum’s Board of Directors, will be on hand for the reception.

Speakers at this year’s conference include Barry Lewis, the Executive Editor of the Times Herald-Record newspaper, who writes and speaks frequently about his experiences as a summer employee at several hotels, Dr. Irwin Richman, Professor Emeritus of American Studies and History at Penn State University-Harrisburg and author of 25 books, including “Borscht Belt Bungalows: Memories of Catskill Summers,” Sullivan County Historian John Conway, planner and County Legislator Alan Sorensen, architect and author Ross Padluck, whose 2013 book, “Catskill Resorts: Lost Architecture of Paradise” has added a wealth of information to the body of work about the Sullivan County resort industry, and architects Victor and Robert Dadras, who will discuss the concept of repurposing vintage Sullivan County resorts as modern day boutique hotels.

The conference also features two panel discussions, including one with former hotel owners.

The conference begins with registration and a light breakfast at 8:00 a.m., followed by a driving and walking tour at 9:00 a.m. The first program begins at 11:00 a.m. A full schedule of events follows. 

The fee for the conference is $25.00 per person, including the light breakfast, lunch, and the reception.  =The fee for the driving/walking tour is $20.00 or both events can be attended for $35.00. There is no charge to members of the Liberty Museum & Arts Center.

The Liberty Museum & Arts Center is located at 46 South Main Street n Liberty.  For further information, contact the Museum by phone at 845-292-2394 or by e-mail at lmacinfo@libertymuseum.com.

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In the photo above: Robert Dadras presents at the 2013 Preservation and History Conference at the Liberty Museum & Arts Center. His topic this year: Re-purposing old Catskill Resorts.

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Schedule:

2014 Catskill’s Preservation & History Conference
Sunday, August 24, 2014:8am- 8pm libertymuseum.com
Liberty Museum & Arts Center, 46 South Main Street, Liberty, NY 12754

"500 Hotels! Tourism in the Sullivan County Catskills: Past, Present and Future."

8:00am- registration/breakfast-

9:00am- Overview/Driving Tour/Walking Tour

11:00pm- Barry Lewis-

“The Catskill’s will Change”

12:00pm- Luncheon Keynote: Irwin Richman-

"Hotels and Bungalows: Ambivalence, Love and Hate."

1:00pm- John Conway-

"500 Hotels! Tourism in the Sullivan County Catskills: Past, Present and Future."

2:00pm- Alan Sorensen-

“ The Economics of Reusing a Resort Site”

3:00pm- Ross Padluck-

“Evolution of the Planning and Architecture of Catskills Resorts”

4:00pm- Robert Dadras/Victor Dadras-

“Re-Imagining and Re-Purposing the Great Catskill’s Resorts”

5:00pm- Panel Discussion- with Conference Speakers-

Moderated by John Conway

6:00pm- Panel Discussion- “Meet the Hotel Owners Session”

Moderated by Myron Gittell

7:00pm- Opening of the “Pollack’s Hotel” Exhibit and

“The Second Annual Catskill’s Preservation Award”

8:00pm – conference concludes-

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CALLICOON CENTER, NY (August 13, 2014) – Saturday, August 16, the Sullivan County Farmers’ Markets Association will host their annual farm to table fundraiser “Our Farms to Your Fork” at Hill’s Country  Inn in Callicoon Center, NY. A four-course meal will be prepared by Early Bird Cookery utilizing the bounty from farmers and food producers who vend at market.

“This dinner is about farmers, food producers and a chef coming together to transform seasonal bounty into a delectable meal. It’s about community and awareness with proceeds benefiting the continued growth and educational scholarship of the markets” said Danielle Gaebel, Market Manager.

“Our members have been so gracious with their donations and we are truly looking forward to showcasing them” Gaebel said. Farms being showcased include Willow Wisp Organic Farm, Lucky Dog Farm, Butchie’s Organic Farm, Heller’s Farm, Trapani Farms, Maynard Farms, Stone & Thistle Farm, Hilly Acres Farm and Tonjes Farm Dairy. Food producers include, Brandenburg Pastry Bakery, Northern Farmhouse Pasta, Aunt Nenee’s, Java Love Coffee Roasting Co. and The Natural Contents Kitchen; complimentary libations courtesy of Aaron Burr Cider and Catskill Brewery.  Enjoy live music by Kaahele & Friends and a silent auction.

For tickets or more details please contact Danielle Gaebel, Market Manager, 866-270-2015 or email manager@sullivancountyfarmersmarkets.org.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS (August 12, 2014) – Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Otsego, Sullivan Counties

…Heavy Rainfall Is Expected Tonight…And Perhaps Into Early Wednesday…

A Strong Surge Of Moisture Will Combine With A Slow Moving Frontal Complex To Bring Periods Of Rain Today…With Steadier Heavier Rainfall Likely Developing Late Tonight.

Most Of The Rainfall Today Will Be On The Light Side…With Any Heavier Downpours Brief And Transient In Nature.

This Evening…Heavier Rainfall…Along With Isolated Thunderstorms…Is Expected To Develop. The Most Concentrated Area Of Heavy Rainfall Should Impact The Southern Tug Hill Region And Portions Of The Mohawk Valley…As Well As The Western Catskills And Poconos…Late Tonight And Possibly Into Early Wednesday Morning.

Total Rainfall Through Late Tonight Or Early Wednesday Should Average 2 To 3 Inches…With Isolated Areas Of 4 Inches Or More Possible.

Stay Tuned For Later Updates…Including Possible Watches Or Warnings…From The National Weather Service.

Please stay tuned to your local radio or TV Station for more information.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 9, 2014) – Celebrated throughout the month of September, the nationwide Library Card Sign-up Month campaign encourages people to “Get The Smartest Card @ your library.” Endorsed by the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS), this campaign encourages the public to discover the important things a library card gives you access to.

“Your library card is your ticket to opportunity,” said Robert Hubsher, Executive Director of the Ramapo Catskill Library System. “No other card in your wallet gives you free access to books, CDs, magazines and DVDs at your library and opens up the digital world to you with free access to downloadable ebooks, audiobooks, music, movies and magazine articles. Your library card also provides you access to all kinds of library programs from book clubs to craft programs. What better place is there to explore and develop new interests than at the library?”

There is a lot happening at your local library, and the best part for both children and parents – in these tough economic times – is that it’s all free with a library card. All the public libraries within the RCLS service area offer public access to the Internet and will help you learn to use this valuable tool.

Observed since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month is a time when the Ramapo Catskill Library System and librarians across the Hudson Valley and Catskills regions remind parents that a library card is the most important school supply a child can have. Libraries play an important role in the development of children.

Studies show that children who are read to in the home and who use the library perform better in school and are more likely to become life-long readers and continue to use the library as a source of information throughout their lives. It is no wonder that 84% of Americans agree that the public library is important to education.

A recent study by the American Library Association also showed that families use libraries to spend time together. Forty-four percent of survey respondents report taking their children to the library for this reason.

Library cards are free to those living in the library’s service area. In most cases, borrowing privileges are granted on the spot based on providing some form of identification, proof of residency or the signature of a guardian.

When you cannot get to the library, let it come to you. Call for answers by phone. If you have a computer, and Internet access, you can connect to the website of your local library. Today, you can even download audiobooks, videos and eBooks to your computer or personal media device. The Ramapo Catskill Library System home page www.rcls.org provides a link to all member libraries and their branches 24 hours a day, seven days a week. From your home or office, you are able to reserve and renew items online; all you need is a library card.

The home page of each member library provides links to many useful electronic resources, including Gale Business Insights, which offers information on over 448,000 US and international companies, and Literature Resources from Gale provides information on the lives of authors of all eras and genres. Resources are provided for homework help, such as EBSCO Middle Search and Grolier Online, which provide access to hundreds of full-text magazines for students, and Britannica Online, the electronic version of the encyclopedia. In addition, biographical and health databases are available. There is something for children of all ages and for adults with all kinds of interests, including business people looking for information to help their company grow.

For more information about giving your child a head start by obtaining a library card or about library resources and activities, contact your local library.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 8, 2014) – Sullivan County Sheriff, Mike Schiff, held a press conference in partnership with Sullivan County District Attorney Jim Farrell, and Dick Martinkovic, Sullivan County Commissioner of Public Safety, on August 8 at the Dr. Duggan Community Center in White Lake, NY.

The focus of the press conference was the increasing number of motor vehicle accidents and fatalities in Sullivan County.

What follows is the statement from the press conference:

“The Sheriff’s Office has investigated approximately 55 fatal motor vehicle accidents over the past decade in Sullivan County. Nine of those fatal accidents have occurred on the Route 17B corridor resulting in 19 people losing their lives. This does not include accidents investigated by the New York State police. Last Saturday night’s fatal head-on accident, that took the life of 33 year old Narrowsburg resident Robert Schenk, is just another in a long list of tragedies on Route 17B. The physical road itself is not inherently dangerous. The State DOT does a great job of maintaining it. It’s the volume of traffic and the habits of the drivers who use it that have contributed to the accidents. State Route 17B is the main thoroughfare from the County Seat, which is Monticello, to the western part of the county. It is one of the economic life lines of our community.

“Keeping the motoring public safe, especially on Route 17B, is a priority. That is why I am here today with my public safety partners to announce enhanced traffic safety enforcement on this vital stretch of Sullivan County Highway. Our goal is to get through the rest of the summer, if not the rest of the year without another fatal accident. The reason we are here today is to inform the public of this problem and to give fair warning that we will be increasing traffic safety enforcement in this area.

“The list of offenses that the Sheriff’s Patrol will be targeting are:

-Driving While Intoxicated/Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs

-Speeding

-Passing on the Double Yellow Line

-Passing on the Shoulder

-Wearing a Seatbelt

-Talking on the Cellp hone

-Texting

The Sheriff’s Patrol will increase enforcement on Route 17B using two programs:

1. S.T.E.P. (Selective Traffic Enforcement Program) which is a grant from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Council. S.T.E.P. is meant to target violations of the vehicle and traffic law that concern hazardous operation of motor vehicles.

2. STOP DWI. Stop DWI is a program that is administered at the county level. It provides extra funds to add patrols for the sole purpose of detecting and arresting drunk drivers. That money comes from the fines and fees of those convicted of drunk driving.

The Sheriff’s Office will commence these patrols immediately and will be coordinating this effort with our public safety partners.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 6, 2014) – Sullivan County Historian John Conway will give a lecture on the history of theatre and movies in the Sullivan County Catskills on Thursday, August 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library in Monticello

This program is free and open to the public.

It will take place downstairs in the children’s room of the library, which is not handicapped accessible. For more information, contact Joanna at 845-794-4660 ext. 8, or by email at jgoldfarb@rcls.org.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (AUGUST 5, 2014) – There’s always something to do in the Sullivan County Catskills. Here’s just a sampling:

– The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop in South Fallsburg presents “Guys & Dolls” on August 8, 9, 15, 16 at 8:00 p.m., and August 10 and 17 at 2:00 p.m. For tickets and information call 845-434-5336, or visit www.SCDW.net.

– The Alliance Gallery in Narrowsburg presents an exhibit of “Flotsam & Jetsam,” Photography by Karen Bell from August 15 – September 6, with an opening reception on August 15 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Free admission. 845-252-7576 or visit www.delawarevalleyartsalliance.org.

– The Sullivan County Historical Society presents “Sunday Matinee At The Museum” – classic movies from the past. August 17 – “The Green Berets” starring John Wayne. 1:00 p.m. Sullivan County Museum, 265 Main St. Hurleyville, NY. Free Admission. 434-8044 or www.scnyhistory.org

– The Ethelbert B. Crawford Library in Monticello presents “A History of Theatre and Movies in the Catskills on Thursday, August 14 at 6:30 p.m. Free admission. This program is free and open to the public. It will take place downstairs in the children’s room of the library, which is not handicapped accessible. For more information 845-794-4660 x 8, or by email at jgoldfarb@rcls.org.

– The Catskill Art Society will present the storytelling group Yarnslingers for their partnership series “Yarnslingers: Memoirs” at the CAS Arts Center at 48 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY on Saturday, August 16 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available for a suggested donation of $10. Call 845-436-4227.

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Photos by Kathleen Aitken & Kathy McBride Atkins

NEW YORK STATE (August 4, 2014) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently signed legislation that strengthens the vetting process for volunteer firefighter organizations by requiring applicants to submit to a background check for any prior sex offense convictions.

“Firefighters are often in a position where they serve and protect vulnerable members of their communities – which is why it is imperative that our volunteer firefighter organizations are staffed with highly qualified and dedicated individuals,” Governor Cuomo said. “By allowing these groups to screen for sexual offenders and remove any individuals who have been convicted of sexual offenses, we are supporting some of our most important local volunteer groups and taking a strong step toward having safer communities across the state.”
Volunteer firefighters frequently work in the presence of vulnerable individuals, including children. This bill would require prospective volunteer firefighters to authorize a background check for sex offense convictions if the individual wishes to proceed with his or her application. The bill would also allow individual fire companies to determine if the prospective volunteer is eligible to become a volunteer member of such fire company if that person has been convicted of a registerable sex offense is found.

This law passed both houses of the legislature as S1885C and A2318D, respectively.

Senator John J. Bonacic, a sponsor of the bill, said, “Volunteer fire department personnel should have all the means necessary to prevent convicted sex offenders from becoming volunteers, and remove any who presently serve. Oftentimes, volunteer firefighters are in situations where children and families are present, whether in the actions of a fire or medical emergency, but they also take part in community and school events. This will give those that approve new volunteer firefighters the support they need. I thank Governor Cuomo for signing this common sense measure into law.”

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther said, “Volunteer firefighters are an invaluable and integral part of our community. They are in positions of trust and authority, regularly interacting with children, seniors and families who are vulnerable. This legislation goes a long way to ensuring that fire departments have all the tools they need to protect the community, as well as the department.”

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NEW YORK STATE (August 4, 2014) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed a bill closing a loophole in the penal law to ensure that people who have had their image broadcasted without their consent will have a course of action under the law. This expansion ensures that police officers will be able to bring charges in cases where a person’s privacy had been more broadly invaded and their image broadcasted without their permission.

"No one should be humiliated by having their image broadcast without their consent – and this common-sense legislation ensures that any victim of such an act will have the law on their side,” Governor Cuomo said. “I commend Senator Carlucci and Assembly Member Paulin, as well as the Clarkstown Police Department, for their collective work to right this wrong and ensure that New Yorkers are protected from this potential abuse.”

Individuals will now be charged with unlawful surveillance in the second degree if they use a device to view, broadcast or record another person engaged in sexual conduct without their consent, regardless of whether that other person’s sexual parts were broadcast or not. Prior to this amendment, charges could only be brought against an individual if sexual parts were shown in the picture.
The loophole was first discovered by officers of the Clarkstown Police Department, who were subsequently unable to pursue action to protect an alleged victim under these circumstances. The law will take effect November 1.
This law passed both houses of the legislature as S1982C and A2053C, respectively.

Senator David Carlucci, sponsor of the bill, said, "The Internet should not be a tool to humiliate or exploit others. With the rapid advancement of new technology, we need a 21st Century approach to our outdated surveillance laws. I want to thank Governor Cuomo for signing our unlawful surveillance bill into law today. This new law will deter individuals from using the Internet as a vehicle to humiliate or exploit others.”

Assembly Member Amy Paulin, sponsor of the bill, said, "A person’s right to privacy is paramount. If a person is involved in a private moment or situation, he or she has the right to expect that that moment will remain private and not be broadcast over the Internet or via any other medium."

Clarkstown Police Chief Michael Sullivan said, "I would like to once again commend Senator Carlucci and Assembly Member Paulin for taking up this cause and getting this legislation passed. I also want to thank Governor Cuomo for signing this important legislation into a law that will go a long way in protecting not only the people of Clarkstown, but all New Yorkers."

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NEW YORK STATE (August 1, 2014) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation creating Vince’s Law, an amendment to current law that extends the time frame in which multiple DWIs can be considered to automatically invoke a felony.

“Motorists who repeatedly drive drunk are a danger to themselves and everyone else on the road, and they have no place behind the wheel,” Governor Cuomo said. “Vince’s Law will keep these reckless individuals out of the driver’s seat and help prevent future tragedies from occurring. I thank the sponsors of this bill for their help in combatting drunk driving and am proud to sign this bill into law today.”

Named after Vincent Russo, who died after being struck head-on by a driver with multiple DWIs, Vincent’s Law aims to keep repeat offenders off the road. In Mr. Russo’s case, the offending driver had five prior DWI offenses and was not yet incarcerated.

This legislation will raise the penalty levels for offenders who commit three or more DWI-related offenses within 15 years, with a maximum determinate prison sentence of up to 7 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000—where previously such repeat offenses might not have been prosecuted as a felony at all.
This law passed both houses of the legislature as S7108 and A8021-A, respectively.

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WASHINGTON, DC (August 1, 2014) – On the 10th anniversary of the release of the 9/11 Report last week, the report’s authors outlined current threats to our national security in a document called “Reflections on the Tenth Anniversary of The 9/11 Commission Report.” The authors – members of the original 9/11 Commission – concluded that the country now has “a September 10th ability to guard against cyber-attacks.”

In response to this assessment, Senator Gillibrand today introduced the “Cyber Information Sharing Tax Credit Act,” new legislation that would address critical cyber security vulnerabilities and incentivize businesses of all sizes to join sector-specific information sharing organizations, known as Information Sharing and Analysis Centers, or ISACs. The bill would provide refundable tax credits for all costs associated with joining the ISACs.

“Businesses should take the same precautions to defend their data as they do with their buildings and inventory. Just as they purchase insurance and security systems, they should enter into agreements with information sharing organizations to help defend against cyber-threats,” said Senator Gillibrand. “From financial institutions and health care systems, to our electric grids and grocery stores, we are losing billions of dollars and putting our critical infrastructure at risk because of inaction. We must do more to strengthen our defenses online, and information sharing among businesses is a critical step that must be taken.”

The authors of the 9/11 report identified domestic cyber readiness as one of the five most pressing national security issues facing the country. The report highlights that senior leaders were “uniformly alarmed by the cyber threat to the country,” comparing currently policies to “September 10th levels.” The report also states, “One lesson of the 9/11 story is that, as a nation, Americans did not awaken to the gravity of the terrorist threat until it was too late. History may be repeating itself in the cyber realm.”

The Cyber Information Sharing Tax Credit Act would incentivize information sharing about security vulnerabilities, and would also facilitate the dissemination of sector-specific cyber protection. The bill would encourage this through a refundable tax credit for any business that joins an ISAC. The refundable tax credit would cover personnel participation costs, product and service costs directly related to sharing information with the ISAC, as well as other costs reasonably associated with participation.

Membership in an ISAC will give a small business access to real-time alerts about ongoing cyber threats to their systems, or newly discovered vulnerabilities in their networks that hackers might exploit, along with technical advice on how to protect against these attacks and eliminate their vulnerabilities..

Over the last decade, there have been almost four thousand separate security breaches, comprising over half a billion records containing sensitive personal information, many of which have led to identity theft and other crimes. The financial sector alone has experienced 250 attacks since 2011. With lost records costing an average of $188 per record, the potential U.S. losses add up to $112 billion since 2005.

Further, recent reports have outlined how foreign actors infiltrated the NASDAQ stock exchange through the use of malware. While there appeared to be minimal data loss, this instance highlights how vulnerable global financial systems are to cyber-attacks. Another report outlined how a “sophisticated threat actor” gained access to an unnamed US utility. The Department of Homeland Security report warns of inadequate protection and, “as tools and adversary capabilities advance, [they] expect that exposed systems will be more effectively discovered, and targeted by adversaries.”

A spring 2014 report by the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) identifies sector-specific information sharing “as a key component of an effective cybersecurity framework.” The report also points out that there is a significant disparity in participation between large and small businesses, “with more than 60% of large institutions reporting an ISAC membership as compared to only 25% of small institutions.”

In a speech to financial industry leaders in July 2014, Treasury Secretary Jack Lew reiterated the importance of information sharing. He pointed to the 2012 attacks by state actors on American financial institutions, and how actions by state actors could cause a significant disruption of the financial system.

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