The Catskill Chronicle

UNITED STATES (September 15, 2014) – More than a book a day faces expulsion from free and open public access in US schools and libraries every year.

There have been more than 10,000 attempts since the American Library Association (ALA) began electronically compiling and publishing information on book challenges in 1990. Thirty-two years after the first observance of Banned Books Week there are still attempts to remove books from public library shelves.

In one case, the Plymouth-Canton school district in Michigan considered banning both Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” and Graham Swift’s “Waterland” after complaints from some parents of objectionable content. Both books were eventually allowed to stay on school shelves after a review committee heard from teachers, students and parents in support of the books during public meetings. But, unfortunately, even with the help of outspoken supporters, books are still being removed.

"Forever" by Judy Blume was one of more than 70 titles a Fayetteville, Ark., mother requested be removed in 2010. Twenty-five years earlier, the book was restricted in the Park Hill (Mo.) South Junior High School library because the book promotes "the stranglehold of humanism on life in America."

"Throughout history, there always have been a few people who don’t want information to be freely available. And this is still true. We hope to remind Americans that the ability to read, speak, think and express ourselves freely is a right, not a privilege," said ALA President Courtney Young. "The reason more books aren’t banned is because community residents – with librarians, teachers and journalists – stand up and speak out for their freedom to read. Banned Books Week reminds us that we must remain vigilant."

The ALA and the Ramapo Catskill Library System are endorsing the observance of Banned Books Week September 21 – 27, an annual celebration of our right to access books without censorship. This observance commemorates the most basic freedom in a democratic society – the freedom to read freely – and encourages us not to take this freedom for granted.

“Banned Books Week is about choice and respecting the rights of others to choose for themselves and their families what they wish to read,” says Robert Hubsher, Executive Director of the Ramapo Catskill Library System. “Book banning and challenging has a domino effect. If we stand by and let the first book come off the shelf, we run the risk they will all come tumbling down. American libraries are the cornerstones of our democracy. Libraries are for everyone, everywhere. Because libraries provide free access to a world of information, they bring opportunity to all people.”

There were 307 known attempts to remove books in 2013. Challenges are defined as formal, written complaints filed with a library or school requesting that materials be removed because of content or appropriateness. About 70 percent of challenges take place in schools and school libraries. According to Barbara M. Jones, director of the Office for Intellectual Freedom, the number of challenges reflects only incidents reported, and for each reported, four or five remain unreported.

"We are as busy as we’ve ever been in fighting censorship attempts in schools and libraries," Jones said. "Libraries are no longer simply about books – but also about DVDs, videogames and online information."

The top five most challenged books in 2013 reflect a range of themes, and consist of the following titles:

1. Captain Underpants (series), by Dav Pilkey

2. The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison

3. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie

4. Fifty Shades of Grey, by E.L. James

5. The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins

Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the ALA, the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors, and the National Association of College Stores. It is endorsed by the Library of Congress Center for the Book.

American libraries are the cornerstones of our democracy. Libraries are for everyone, everywhere. Because libraries provide free access to a world of information, they bring opportunity to all people. Now, more than ever, celebrate the freedom to read @ your library! Remember, think for yourself and let others do the same. Elect to read an old favorite or a new banned book this week.

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Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (September 14, 2014) – On Thursday, September 11,  2014, the Monticello Fire Department (MFD) paid tribute to the memory of the fallen of the September 11m 2001 attack on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93.

The event included the salute to the American flag led by a local boy scout troop, the Star Spangled Banner sung by Mobilemedic owner and paramedic Albee Bockman, and a keynote speech by Bold Gold Media Group owner Vince Benedetto. The ceremony, which also included a wreath presentation and a photo of the twin towers, was broadcast live by Thunder 102, a Bold Gold Media station.

The members of the MFD stood at “parade rest” during the ceremony, as Alan Kesten introduced Benedetto, who said that he’d had “the occasion to speak in front of many groups for a variety of topics over the years, but I can honestly say that I have never been so touched and so honored than to be here with you today.”

Benedetto shared his experiences with the Air Force OSI (Office of Special Investigations), and the time leading up to and during the events of September 11th. “I’ve also never spoken publicly  about my thoughts and feelings related to the significance of this day 13 years ago. And to be able to share some of those memories and perspectives with you is a true blessing.”

“… There’s a misconception out there that prior to the attacks of September 11^th that there was little or no warning that an attack was likely. Far from it… shortly after arriving in Europe our work increasingly became focused around the possibility that Al Qaida was likely to attempt a spectacular attack in the near future. While the specifics were not there, the M.O. of this group, prior to an attempted attack was indicating that something was in the works. Agents were tasked to attempt to get the specifics, and based on the information in hand, most analysts had assessed that there was a high likelihood of an attempted attack coming soon at either a diplomatic post or a military base overseas.

“As a result military bases, particularly those oversees, had all moved to heightened states of alert… and around September 7th of 2001, I traveled from my base in Italy to our United States Air Forces in Europe Command HQs, often called USAFE, located at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. I was there to assist in helping to analyze our force protection measures.

“And then a moment that I will never forget happened… In Germany it was mid-afternoon at the time. I walked out of a USAFE conference room where we had been working…

“I know you know how personal this must have felt… in my line of work, we’re not supposed to let this happen… so my agency and the CI community of course took this very hard… we were angry. We wanted the gloves to come off, like we had been wanting for a long time, so that we could go after these guys everywhere they were. Up until now this had been mostly a law enforcement and investigative fight… for every bad guy agents took off the streets, by the time we navigated through the global bureaucracy, it seemed like three more popped up! But we would get our chance before too long.”

Benedetto spoke then about the “the out-pouring of support around the globe,” which “led to unprecedented cooperation among law enforcement and counter-intelligence agencies….

“There’s a John F. Kennedy quote etched in granite right near his gravesite in Arlington Cemetery…taken from his Inaugural address: ‘In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger… I do not shrink from this responsibility, I welcome it.’ And that’s true… as evidenced by those of you hear today… Our nation has always paid a high price for freedom, but it’s one we were always willing to pay… and when the moment came “we the people…” have always risen to the occasion. …

“I want to say this… specifically to you as Firefighters. When I stood in the United States Air Forces Command Center in Europe, and I saw the firefighters running into those buildings… I want you to know that right there, you inspired all of us in the Armed Forces… And when those buildings fell, and we knew so many of those brave souls were in there… you steeled our resolve to do whatever it would take to fight back and go after those who dared to attack our homeland like that. And every day thereafter, when fellow airmen and soldiers and I took the fight to these cowards, wherever on the planet they were hiding, your bravery, and what you stood for and continue to stand for, is what so often sustained us!

“… You know that danger is always out there, and regardless, you have accepted a life where you are willing and ready to rush into the flames to protect your neighbors, your community, and your countrymen.

“I don’t know that there will ever be a day more etched in my memory than September 11 of 2001. I do know that my memories of that day are not dominated by terror or destruction… Because of people like you, and your example, and that of my fellow soldiers… my memories are of courage, hope and resilience. And that example set by the firemen and all the emergency responders, remains one of the greatest displays of character and virtue ever seen on the face of this earth… Having traveled much of the world, I firmly believe that no country could have responded the way we did… And because of technology, because of radio and television … we all got to see and hear the greatest of courage on display. …

“…that is why today we pay respect to those we lost and honor their memory… but we celebrate their lives… and we celebrate the rising out of the ashes of that day of our country and this State. And on behalf of my fellow members of the Armed Forces, and on behalf of this wonderful community, I want to thank you for setting that example of service…and always being ready… not just on 11 September…today, tomorrow, and always. …”

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This is what an Internet without net neutrality would look like.

Cable companies want to slow down (and break!) your favorite sites, for profit. They’re attacking the Internet – their one competitor and our only refuge – with plans to charge websites arbitrary fees and slow (to a crawl) any sites that won’t pay up.

If they win, the Internet dies.

Don’t know what Net Neutrality is? Click here to find out from Wikipedia.

Here’s how Etsy’s CEO put it in an op-ed that ran in Wired on Sunday, announcing his company’s participation:

“To be sure, the cable and phone companies are counting on our apathy. After all, businesses are often more conservative than activists and tend to not want to jump alone. But not this time. Our employees care, our communities are invested, and after months of progress, we now have a real shot at victory.”

Get involved by signing the letter to our lawmakers.

Learn more here: http://www.savetheinternet.com/net-neutrality

Or here: https://www.aclu.org/net-neutrality

And then sign a petition here: http://www.change.org/p/tom-wheeler-save-net-neutrality

Or here: https://www.aclu.org/secure/FCC_preserve_net_neutrality

Or here: http://civic.moveon.org/save_the_internet/

Or here: https://bigtelecomvstheworld.org/?src=credo

The fight is real. The stakes are tremendous.

Do nothing and see that “spinning wheel of death” every time you try to load a page.

Or fight back for net neutrality.

Thank you from The Catskill Chronicle.

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LIBERTY, NY (September 8, 2014) — Are you overwhelming in fresh veggies? Are your tomatoes begging to be preserved? Too many beans, peas, carrots?

A workshop on home food preservation using the hot water bath method is being offered on Saturday, September 27 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC) will hold this introductory class on the fundamentals of canning in its new Entrepreneurial & Teaching (EaT) Kitchen.

The Eat Kitchen is located at the CCESC Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

Master Food Preservers, SueAnn Boyd and Jessica Gibbons, will teach how and when “hot pack” is preferable, basic canning safety, and the proper hot water bath canning procedure. Participants will take a prepared food sample home.

Pre-registration with non-refundable payment of $25.00 is required in advance. Registration and more information can be obtained by calling CCESC at 845-292-6180 or emailing SueAnn Boyd at srb46@cornell.edu.

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COCHECTON, NY (September 7, 2014) – The Cochecton Preservation Society will host their annual “Coffee, Tea and History” on Sunday, September 21 at the Cochecton Train Station located at 8537 Route 97. 

The presentation, which starts at 1:00 p.m., is titled “The Oldest House in Cochecton; Its History and Inhabitants,” and is made possible by Joe DeFalco who is currently writing a book on the subject.

This oral history is an account of multiple Cochecton families related through marriage, and their participation in America’s history during the period 1800 through 1901.

The letters reflect on events prior to the American Revolution, during the Revolution, after the Revolution, the French Revolution, during the Civil War, during the Westward Migration and today. This is based on true facts contained in a collection of 2,500+ letters, diaries, memoirs, found in a trunk of his family’s house in Cochecton and published research.

This event is free and refreshments will be served at intermission.

There will be a display of the letters, artifacts from the Civil War, a list of the writers from Cochecton, a list of the Civil War discharges, and more.

There are 46 family names listed for letters and 42 family names listed for the Civil War discharges.

If you are descendant of one of the listed families, Mr. DeFalco is offering a copy of the original correspondence free to attendees upon request.

For more information call 845-932-8104.

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Liberty, New York— August 29, 2014 – Thunder 102 will hold its fourth Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Radiothon on September 18^th and 19^h, a fundraising event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to help in the fight against childhood cancer. The Thunder 102 Country Cares For St. Jude Kids Radiothon will run from 6 am to 7 pm each day and is sponsored by Middletown Medical, Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, Catskill Regional Medical Center, Yellow Cab, Formaggio Cheese Specialties, Crystal Run Healthcare, EarthCare, Edible Arrangements of Orange County and  Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas and opened in 1962. Its mission to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.  In 1989, Randy Owen, member of the country group Alabama, met with founder Danny Thomas who asked him to play a part in curing childhood cancer and Country Cares was born. The first Country Cares event was designed as a nationally syndicated radiothon and it raised $1 million for St. Jude.  However, these pioneers knew the country music industry and its fans were eager to do more and Country Cares has expanded to include over 200 radio stations across the United States.

St. Jude treats children from all 50 states and around the world.  The protocols, developed by St. Jude’s research, help not only children in Thunder Country, but adults as well. These protocols are used by LOCAL doctors and hospitals in the treatment of LOCAL patients.

Besides the actual days of the Radiothon, almost 50 businesses throughout Thunder Country are currently selling Bethel Woods Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Boot Cards for a minimum $1 donation, with more business being added each day! To donate, stop by one of the participating businesses listed below.  Other St. Jude fundraising effort include the Thunder 102 Game Night at the Forestburgh Tavern on September 6^th ; the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sullivan County Coin Drop at ShopRite in Monticello and Liberty on September 13^th and at Bethel Woods Harvest Festival on August 31, September 7 and 14^th.

You can listen on September 18 and 19 on your radio, online at www.thunder102.com or by downloading the RadioBOLD app on your iPhone, iPad, iPod or Android. Donate online at Thunder 102.com or by calling 800-720-5944 the days of the Radiothon.

Bethel Woods Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Boot Cards Locations

Bethel Family Medical – Bethel

Ultra Power – Bethel

Sorella Restaurant & Pizza – Kauneonga Lake

Colosseo’s – Monticello

Tilly’s Diner – Monticello

Family Drug – Monticello

Monticello Professional Car Wash – Monticello

Schmidt’s Wholesale – Monticello

Nelda’s Cutting Edge – Monticello
Miss Monticello Diner – Monticello
Quality Pet Care – Monticello – 10% of all sales on preventatives through September 13th

Brother Bruno – Monticello

Burger King – Monticello & Liberty

Rock Hill Trading Post – Rock Hill

Kiamesha Lanes – Kiamesha

Mister G’s – Ferndale

USAlliance Federal Credit Union- Liberty, Woodbourne, Ellenville WalMart & Napanoch

Paesano’s – Liberty

McDonald’s – Liberty

Sullivan Pharmacy – Liberty

Floyd & Bobo’s – Liberty

Liberty Fitness – Liberty

McCabe’s – Liberty

Liberty Agway and Pet Center – Liberty

Claudia’s Hair Salon – Liberty

Liberty Trading Post – Liberty

The Shoe Box – Liberty

Sears – Liberty

Liberty Diner – Liberty

Beer Warehouse – Liberty

Cracolici’s on the Green – Liberty

First Niagara Bank – Liberty

Liberty Bowl – Liberty

Liberty Human Resources – Liberty

Vita’s Farm Market – Jeffersonville

Villa Roma Resort & Conference Center – Callicoon

White Sulphur Springs Inn – White Sulphur Springs

Rosoce Diner – Roscoe

Roscoe Bistro – Roscoe

Casey’s Deli  – Roscoe

Catskill Grocers- Roscoe

Raimondo’s – Roscoe

The Roscoe Little Store – Roscoe

Yellow Cab – Monticello – All Boot Card Sales Will Be Matched

Peck’s Supermarkets – Jeffersonville, Eldred, Livingston Manor, Narrowsburg and Callicoon

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FORESTBURGH, NY (September 5, 2014) – The Forestburgh Tavern has extended its season with special events every Friday and Saturday in September and in October up until Columbus Day.

According to Forestburgh’s Frankilin Trapp, “there will be some cabarets, bands, folk music, a drag cabaret, benefits for local community organizations and more.”

With a menu provided by Jill Padua, Executive Chef at the Tavern and a bountiful selection of spirits, the first weekend will feature Lumiri Tubo on Friday, September 5 and on September 6, Thunder 102 will be hosting a Trivia Night to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Electrifying, dazzling, and wonderful are only a few of the terms used to describe Lumiri Tubo. "This vivacious performer is a charmer with a diverse vocal style that at times ranges from Anita Baker to Alberta Hunter," says John Hoglund, reviewer for Backstage.

Tickets are $15 purchased in advance, $20 at the door. Showtime is 8:00 p.m. and doors open at 7:00 p.m. Come early for dinner.

The fun continues on Saturday, September 6 when Thunder 102 hosts a fabulous Game Night. There will be a donation at the door to benefit Thunder 102 Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon. Happy Hour with specials from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. when the games begin with your hosts Thunder 102’s Paul Ciliberto, Michelle Semerano and Mike Sakell. Put a team together and head over to the Tavern.

The Forestburgh Tavern is right next to the Forestburgh Playhouse at 39 Forestburgh Road in Forestburgh, NY.

For more information and for a complete schedule. Go to www.forestburghtavern.com or to www.fbplayhouse.org. To make reservations, call 845-794-2005.

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LIBERTY, NY (September 3, 2014) – The weather couldn’t have been more cooperative. Forced to cancel the Liberty Memorial Day celebration, the Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce decided to hold the festivities on Labor Day instead.

Great idea, great time, great weather, great crowd. A car show, parade, vendors, food, fun!

Here are some photos from a very special day.

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NEW YORK STATE (September 2, 2014) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation prohibiting the launch of watercraft in New York State without taking reasonable precautions to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. The bill (A9619-B, S7851-B) advances current efforts by the State and private organizations to halt the introduction and spread of invasive aquatic species into New York’s waters.

“The natural beauty that is found in every corner of New York is second to none, and it is imperative that we do everything possible to protect that from the dangers of invasive species,” Governor Cuomo said. “We all share a responsibility to protect our natural environment, and this legislation helps ensure that all who enjoy New York’s waters will also do their part to limit the spread of different types of aquatic life that would otherwise harm the local ecosystem.”

The legislation signed by Governor Cuomo makes it the responsibility of boaters launching watercraft to use common sense when putting in and taking out their boats. Before transportation or launch, the boater should first clean, drain and dry the boat, trailer, and any other exposed equipment of visible plant and animal matter, or have taken other reasonable measures to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. This will help prevent the spread between waterbodies and introduction of invasive species in new waterbodies throughout New York.

Invasive species are a threat because they have few natural predators in their new environment and can carry harmful diseases. Ultimately, invasives can outcompete native plants and animals and change entire ecosystems. Aquatic invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the State’s treasured waterways because once introduced, they are nearly impossible to eradicate and expensive to manage.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, aquatic invasive species seriously threaten economically important industries, such as tourism and fishing. Invasive species cost the U.S. economy an estimated $120 billion per year, and while the State has implemented various programs designed to control the spread of aquatic invasives, it is far more cost-effective to prevent them altogether.

Governor Cuomo’s signing of the bill complements a broad approach by State agencies to combat the spread of invasive species in New York’s waters. The Department of Environmental Conversation this summer adopted regulations similar to this bill that prohibits boats from launching or leaving water access sites on Department of Environmental Conversation land without first taking these precautions. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation this summer published proposed regulations that would place similar requirements on watercraft using State Parks. Several local municipalities and organizations in the State have already adopted local laws to address the spread of aquatic invasive species, including boat inspection and washing requirements. In 2014, the State adopted the first ever mandatory invasive species inspection programs at all boat launches on Lake George.

New York State has invested millions of dollars in response, mitigation and prevention programs to rid the environment of invasive species on water and land. In July, Governor Cuomo announced the State’s first-ever Invasive Species Awareness Week to teach New Yorkers and visitors about the threat that these pests pose to our environment. More information about the State’s efforts to control and rid the environment of invasive species can be found here.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY & SURROUNDING AREAS (September 2, 2014) —Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued September 02 at 4:40PM EDT until September 02 at 10:00PM EDT by NWS Storm Prediction Center, Norman, Oklahoma.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch 489 Is In Effect Until 10 PM EDT, for The Following Locations: New York Counties Included are Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Thompkins, Yates.

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

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THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED. TICKETS WILL BE REFUNDED.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 1, 2014) — Back by popular demand, an Old-Fashioned BBQ and Barn Dance will be offered September 6 in celebration of Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County’s (CCESC) 100 year anniversary.

The public is invited to attend this special event at Bridle Hill Farm in Jeffersonville and to support the CCESC Centennial Campaign for an evening of homemade food starting at 6 pm and dancing from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Live music will be performed by Little Sparrow, a local Americana band.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for youth under 10 years of age.

Paid, non-refundable, reservations are required. The public can purchase tickets by calling 845-292-6180.

Guests will enjoy a meal using a traditional chicken barbeque recipe from Cornell University, in the 1950s, live music, dancing, hayrides, and a bonfire. All are advised to dress for farm barn conditions. Use of venue has been donated by Bridle Hill Farm.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC) has launched an ambitious Centennial Campaign to raise one million dollars towards various special projects and initiatives through fundraising events and outreach. This fundraiser will be one in many centennial celebration events offered this year including a Family Hike Fundraiser on October 18 and an Anniversary Afternoon Gala on November 9.

Contributions from Centennial fundraising efforts will go towards supporting sustainability in the CCE Education Center, awarding scholarships, developing a community entrepreneurial kitchen & local agricultural hub, enhancing youth outreach, and managing CCE-owned forest land to strengthen core programming that reaches all corners of Sullivan County.

For 100 years, Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County has been providing programs and services that bring the resources of Cornell University to the grass-roots level. Exciting new programs and opportunities currently under way at CCESC will ensure that it continues to provide high-quality, innovative programs that are vital to our county’s economic and community development. Donations will help CCESC continue to deliver programs that enable Sullivan County residents to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work.

Tax-deductible gifts can be made online at www.sullivancce.org. Checks should be made payable to CCESC Centennial Fund. More information can be obtained by calling 845-292-6180, emailing Nicole Slevin at nas96@cornell.edu.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 1, 2014) – On Tuesday, September 9 there will be a countywide Democratic primary for the positions of Governor and Lt. Governor.  

Incumbent Andrew Cuomo is being challenged by Zephyr Teachout and Randy Credico. 

Lt Governor candidate Kathy Hochul is facing opposition from Ms. Teachout’s running mate Timothy Wu.

In addition, there will be a Republican primary in the Town of Neversink between 101^st Assembly District incumbent Claudia Tenney and Christopher Farber.

Polls throughout the county will be open from 12 noon to 9 p.m.

Contact the Board of Elections at 845-807-0400 if you have any questions or require an absentee ballot.

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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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