The Catskill Chronicle

Photos by Kathleen Aitken

LACKAWAXEN, PA— Citizens of Sullivan County are encouraged to contribute towards the National Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Count for 2013-2014 this January 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County and Delaware Highlands Conservancy’s Eagle Watch volunteer program are teaming up to offer education and an opportunity for families to monitor several spots along the Delaware River for bald eagle activity.

Trained volunteers will be in place at each location to offer some facts about local and wintering eagles and to answer questions. Participants are expected to have their own method of travel to each site. Data collected on this day will be entered through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to the national count.

Participants must pre-register to receive information about the sites and to receive forms for completion by calling CCE at 845-292-6180 or emailing nas96@cornell.edu.

All finalized counts must be turned in to the Conservancy’s Field Office at the end of the day to receive recognition and a prize for this Citizen Science project. Hot chocolate will be available at the office.

4-H Citizenship programs empower young people to be well-informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. By providing them with opportunities to connect to their communities and adult leaders, youth gain a clear understanding of their role in civic affairs and are able to build their decision-making ability.

The national survey is now being coordinated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers out of their San Francisco office, in partnership and with assistance from the previous coordinators at the Biological Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey.

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LIBERTY, NY (December 29, 2013) – Winter is a great season for attracting birds to our backyards. Cold temperatures, severe storms and scarce food supplies make winter the harshest season for wild birds. Bird mortality is high all winter long.

Backyard birders can help meet birds’ needs during the winter and will be rewarded with a diverse flock of winter visitors.

Those just getting started in bird feeding or frustrated by a lack of success in attracting a variety of birds to feeders, the Sullivan County Master Gardeners can help.

Learn how to identify the most common birds and what their favorite treats are at a program on winter birds offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County on Thursday, January 23, 2014. The class will run from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

Information on how to sign up for Cornell University Feeder Watch Program will be distributed. Each participant will make a simple bird feeder to take home.

All class materials are covered with a fee of only $10.00. Class size is limited so pre-registration with non-refundable payment is required. Registration can be obtained by calling 845-292-6180 or emailing smd243@cornell.edu.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY & SURROUNDING AREAS (December 29, 2013) – Issued By: NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:Broome County (All), Chemung County (All), Chenango County (All), Cortland County (All), Delaware County (All), Otsego County (All), Schuyler County (All), Steuben County (All), Sullivan County (All), Tioga County (All), Tompkins County (All)

Description:…A Mix Of Snow And Rain Making For Slippery Travel In South Central New York The Catskills And The Northern Tier Of Eastern Pennsylvania…

A Mix Of Rain And Snow Continues To Fall Across A Wide Area Of South Central New York, The Catskills And The Northern Tier Of Eastern Pennsylvania Late This Afternoon.

Temperatures Were Hovering Between 31 Degrees And 35 Degrees And Many Road Surfaces Were Actually At Or Below Freezing.

The Mixed Rain And Snow Has Caused Numerous Slippery Spots On Roadways And Was Leading To Many Accidents.

The Rain And Snow Will Turn To All Snow By Early Evening With 1 To 3 Inches Of Snow Possible Before The Snow Ends Late In The Evening.

In Delaware And Otsego Counties, Snow Accumulations Will Range From 2 To 5 Inches.

The Higher Terrain Will See The Most Snow And The Most Slippery Conditions Into This Evening But There Were Reports Of Slippery Conditions Even In Some Valleys.

Motorists Should Be Prepared For Slippery Roads And Slow Down. Allow Extra Time To Reach Your Destination.

Do Not Assume The Roads Are Just Wet As Patchy Ice Is Present In Many Areas. This Is The Main Cause Of Accidents.

Listen To Noaa Weather Radio Or Your Local Media For The Latest Updates On This Situation.

Also Visit The NWS Website At Http://Weather.Gov/Bgm

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

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First conference call will take place on 1/21/14

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 29, 2013) – A support group is being offered by telephone conference call for caregivers who are not able to travel to the established three community sites (in Grahamsville, Callicoon, and Liberty) or would like to visit with other caregivers more frequently.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County is offering this program via its Caregiver Resource Center.

This free group, “Caring Conversations,” will be offered on the third Tuesday of each month promptly at 10:00 a.m. for 55 minutes. 

The first phone conference support group will be held on January 21, 2014.

When caregivers call, there is no fee (using a 1-800 toll free number), but there will be a limit of 10 caregivers, so registration in advance is appreciated.

To participate contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at 845-292-6180.

This opportunity is sponsored by the NYS Office for the Aging Caregiver Resource Center Program.

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LIBERTY, NY (December 28, 2013) – The StoryWalk® Project is an innovative way for children and families to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. Preschoolers and  children up to 9 years of age can enjoy a winter StoryWalk® at 4 pm on Thursday, January 23, 2014 along the Turtle Spring Nature Trail at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County’s Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

The highlighted story will be “Tracks in the Snow” by Wong Herbert Yee.

After the walk, participants are invited to warm up indoors while exploring and learning about wildlife tracks through some take-home crafts.

Liberty Public Library (LPL) and CCE Sullivan County are collaborating to offer this free opportunity. Interested families should pre-register for this free event by calling CCE at 845-292-6180 or LPL at 845-292-6070.

This project combines the benefits of physical activity, time outdoors in nature, literacy, and family time. Laminated pages from a children’s book are installed along an outdoor path. As you stroll down the trail, you’re directed to the next page in the story.

This StoryWalk® will be in place throughout the winter months but families are encouraged to attend this opening day.

Created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT, The StoryWalk® Project was developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 26, 2013) – The Beginning Farmers Round Table program scheduled for Monday, December 30, 2013 has been postponed until further notice.

Please call Michelle Lipari for more information at 845-292-6180 or email mml249@cornell.edu. 

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By Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 25, 2013) – It certainly is a festive time of year. And it’s also a great time to give thanks to all our wonderful readers.

When The Catskill Chronicle was started in May of 2009, no one could imagine that four-and-a-half years later we would have over 20 pages and more than 450,000 all-time views. During that time, we have published almost 1600 posts on hundreds of topics. And, our staff is made up entirely of volunteers.

This never could have been accomplished without our loyal, involved and committed readers. Thank you for your support for us and for our community.

The staff and columnists of The Catskill Chronicle wish you a peaceful and beautiful Christmas.

May there be peace in the world and in your heart. May wonderful memories of Christmases past fill your soul, and may you, your family and loved ones share moments of joy and love, making new memories for future years.

Merry Christmas from Jude Waterston (Tales from the Scrawny Gourmet), Janet Waterston (Elder Berries), Barry Plaxen (reviewer), J.A. Di Bello (reviewer), Mort Malkin (Gadfly), Grayce Goin (Twice Divorced), and Carol Montana (editor, reporter and reviewer).

The Catskill Chronicle will be taking a few days hiatus to spend some time with family and friends. We’ll see you soon.

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Compiled by Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 23, 2013) – Community is everything in a county as small as this one. And whether it’s the holiday season or not, the community of schools and organizations always comes together to help those who are less fortunate.

Here are a few stories that illustrate the spirit of the “Giving Season.”

Fallsburg Girl Scouts Bring Joy at Christmas

Santa Claus has enlisted the support of Fallsburg Girl Scout Troop 677 and the teachers and staff of Benjamin Cosor Elementary School to help deliver holiday gifts and toys to Fallsburg families that are especially appreciative of the support.

Teaching Assistant Kristen Meyer, who is the Scout Master of the troop, organized this year’s event.

Staff has been providing toys by taking a mitten off a special tree in the school lobby that indicates an age and gender of a child. The staff person then wrapped and labeled the gift with a sticky note.

On Monday, December 16, Ms. Meyer’s elves, including teachers Robin Pantel, Kathy Foreman, Kate Giametta, and Molly Gelsomino, addressed the gifts and added them to gloves and scarves donated by Woodridge Kiwanis and to books and assorted gifts given by SYDA Foundation. While that was happening, three of the girl scouts, Fallon Bastone, Mickenna Meyer, Shaina Hurwitz (pictured left to right in photo) were putting non-perishable food items into boxes for 14 needy families as part of the Backpack Program. The donations were delivered this past Friday.

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Salvation Army Gets a Helping Hand in Monticello

In the County seat, Monticello High School Students, including Key Club members, assisted the Salvation Army in their mission to brighten the holiday season for children in Sullivan County. The group collected money and toys at the Monticello Walmart Store. Pictured from left to right in the accompanying photo are Janee Simon, Amber Jackson, Rebecca Bass, Jaclynn Sorensen, David O’Rourke, Desteni Perez, Shantanasia Byrums, Erika Perilla and Salvation Army Rep Harry Robinson."

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Monticello Middle School Builders Club on the Move

Members of the RJK Middle School Builders Club have been busy with many community service projects, including collecting $140.00 by selling pink paper ribbons for $l.00 each to parents, teachers and students to promote awareness of Breast Cancer and to raise monies for services offered by the Women’s Health Center of the Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris, New York. The ribbons were proudly displayed on the school’s main lobby bulletin board.

The students also sent holiday greeting cards and included personal messages to veterans at the Veterans Medical Center at Castle Point, NY.

They are now working on collecting needed items that will be delivered to the Sullivan County SPCA animal shelter in Rock Hill. Another project that is underway is making tie fleece pillows as a “give back” project for residents of the Skilled Nursing Unit at Catskill Regional Medical Center. The students will be delivering these pillows to the residents in January.

The Builders Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Monticello. Middle School Technology Teacher William Oefelein is the Club’s Advisor and Jane Sorensen is the Liaison to the Builders Club as well as the Kiwanis President.

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Fallsburg & Monticello Students Collect Food for the Federation

Students from the Fallsburg and Monticello High School Interact Clubs, sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of the two communities, performed community service by collecting donations from shoppers at Monticello’s ShopRite.

The food was brought to The Federation for the Homeless and United Way just prior to the Thanksgiving holiday.

Faculty Advisors are Janet Kaplan and Kim Sussman.

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Fallsburg Lions Donate to CRMC & RISE

At the annual dinner hosted by Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) in November, the Town of Fallsburg Lions Club made donations of $3000 for special equipment needs and $500 for the Rape Intervention Services and Education (RISE) Program that has its office at CRMC.

In the photo left to right are Town of Fallsburg Lions Club Immediate Past President Miranda Behan, President Patricia Behan-Gibson, CRMC CEO Dr. Gerard Galarneau, Lions Treasurer Sy Berenson, and First Vice President George Gibson.

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LIBERTY, NY (December 23, 2013) – Want to be a World Book Night book giver on April 23, 2014, in support of literacy and community?

It’s Shakespeare’s birthday and 25,000 volunteers will go out on one day and give a half million specially printed paperbacks to light or non-readers across America.

Last year in Liberty, 20 volunteers gave away books in places such as soccer fields, schools, grocery stores, nursing homes and hospitals. Lots of people who don’t usually read books were reached and volunteers had a blast giving out and talking about their favorite books.

If you are interested in being a book giver, don’t delay. Apply by January 5, 2014 by going to www.us.worldbooknight.org, read up on the guidelines and list of books. Then apply, and once you are approved as a giver, you will be able to choose the Liberty Public Library (at a later date) as your pick-up location for your books.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 22, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently released an end of the year progress report on the State’s tourism initiatives showing that the number of visitors to New York increased by 8.8  million this year. In addition, the industry is projected to generate $7.7 billion in state and local taxes with direct spending expected to reach $61.3 billion. The industry is also projected to add 24,800 jobs by the end of the year. The Governor held a cabinet meeting recently, where Cristyne Nicholas, Chair of the Governor’s Tourism Advisory Council, gave a presentation on the impressive results being delivered by the state’s efforts to attract more visitors to the state, grow the tourism industry and create jobs.

“This year my administration made it a priority to showcase the Empire State as the go-to destination for visitors from around the world,” Governor Cuomo said. “Our efforts are clearly paying off: by the end of 2013, nearly nine million more visitors will have come to New York compared to 2012. We will have generated almost $8 billion in local and state taxes and reach more than $61 billion in direct spending, which is enough to pay the salary of every firefighter and police officer in New York. We will have created tens of thousands of new jobs in the industry, growing one of the state’s biggest employers. These figures underscore the significant role the tourism industry plays in New York’s economy, and we will continue our work to make sure it thrives.”

In the last year, New York’s tourism industry has grown in revenue, job creation, the number of visitors, and hotel occupancy:

· In 2013, the tourism industry is projected to generate $7.7 billion in state and local taxes. Direct spending is projected to reach $61.3 billion, an increase of 7 percent since 2012. Based on Department of Labor figures, this is enough to pay the salary of every firefighter and police officer in New York State.

· Since December 2012, Leisure & Hospitality employment is expected to add 24,800 jobs for a total of 818,700 jobs by the end of 2013, a 3.1% increase.

· The number of visitors to New York in 2013 will increase by 8.8 million, a 4.2% increase since 2012. By the end of the year, the total number of visitors is projected to be 218,800,000.

· In 2013, New York’s hotels will sell 43 million rooms with associated $8.3 billion hotel room revenue. As of October 2013, New York’s hotel occupancy rate is 73.7% which is almost 10% higher than the national rate.

This year, Governor Cuomo kicked off the state’s tourism efforts by hosting the Tourism Summit in Albany, where he announced $60 million in tourism funding – the highest level of tourism funding in decades – as well as other initiatives including: a new I Love NY marketing campaign with the Port Authority and MTA, Taste NY marketing efforts, an international tourism campaign, I Love NY in Times Square, and I Love NY LGBT. Click here to read more about the results of the Tourism Summit.

2013 also saw the launch of the Governor’s Path Through History campaign, an initiative that supports tourism and economic development by highlighting significant historic sites, locations and events throughout New York. Under Path Through History, the State developed and launched a website, designed and placed tourism signage on State and Federal highways, invested in regional projects and promotion of historic sites, and rebranded Museum Week and Heritage Weekends (June 1-2 and 8-9, 2013) as Path Through History Weekends and Museum Week. More than 200 consumer events were developed throughout the state as part of the program.

A major initiative by the Governor this year was Taste NY, which fuses the state’s agriculture sector with tourism to highlight the great variety of wine, beer, spirits and food products grown and produced here in New York. Governor Cuomo organized a Governor’s Cup Wine Tour in the Finger Lakes region and invited more than 200 restaurateurs, wine buyers, and media to attend. The Governor launched an ad campaign to promote New York State wines and announced the winner of the 2013 Governor’s Cup. Taste NY participated in more than 15 events this year, including the Manhattan Cocktail Classic, the Great New York State Fair, Hudson Valley Food and Wine Fest, Farm Aid, Cider Week, and the NYC Wine & Food Festival.

The State also launched several advertising and marketing campaigns to promote the state’s tourism industry. This included a “Get Outta Town” campaign and partnerships with the MTA and Port Authority featuring 6,400 ad posters in platforms, trains, subways and buses, video advertising at more than 100 subway entrances in Manhattan, Grand Central Terminal’s main hall, and Long Island Rail Road passenger areas in Penn Station, and a fully wrapped I Love NY 42^ndstreet shuttle.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 21, 2013) – Sullivan County Legislative Chairman Scott Samuelson has announced that the 2014 Sullivan County Budget was adopted on December 19 by the Sullivan County Legislature unanimously with a 9-0 vote.

“We are extremely grateful for the excellent work of the Management and Budget staff and County Manager Joshua Potosek. Their hard work allowed us to produce a budget that not only stayed within the Governor’s 2% tax cap but maintained jobs and services as well as returning funding to vital county resources.” said Samuelson.

“This year we were able to work in a bipartisan manner to hold the line on spending to adopt a budget to stay within the 2% tax cap.” said Alan Sorensen, Sullivan County Minority Leader and District 9 Legislator

“The County staff worked effortlessly in conjunction with the Legislature to make the necessary cuts to reduce the tentative levy to the tax cap.” stated County Manager Joshua Potosek.

The 2014 Adopted County Budget includes increased funding to support strategic investments in economic development, public works, public safety, youth, agriculture, veterans, and flood remediation. The adopted budget does not include drastic service cuts, layoffs, exorbitant tax increases, or the use of fund balance from the general fund. The existing service levels have been sustained and the budget allows for Sullivan County to modestly build capacity in a few key strategic areas.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 20, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has issued a consumer alert to urge New Yorkers to protect themselves against identity theft during the busy holiday shopping season when that risk is especially high. As part of the consumer alert, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) released its “Top 5 Tips” for New Yorkers to safeguard themselves from falling victim to identity theft while shopping in-store and online.

“New Yorkers should be particularly vigilant about protecting their sensitive personal information while shopping this holiday season,” said Governor Cuomo. “Scammers and identity thieves often use this busy time to prey on unsuspecting shoppers, so when you’re buying presents at a store or online, it is important to be aware and take precautions. I encourage consumers to review our top five tips to protect their financial information – it is a smart way to ensure an enjoyable and undisrupted holiday season.”

DFS today released the following “Top 5 Tips” for protecting against identity theft:

1. Safeguard Your Personal Information, Online and Off.
· Install a firewall and virus protection on your home computer to prevent hackers from obtaining personal identification and financial data from your hard drive or when you’re using the internet.
· Never send sensitive personal information, like credit card numbers, via email.
· Do not give out personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call or are absolutely certain with whom you are speaking.

2. Keep a Close Eye on Your Card at the Store.
· When you’re using a debit credit card at a store, keep a constant eye on your card and who is handling it. Be aware of “swipe and theft” scams using card skimmers. A skimmer is a machine that records the information from the magnetic stripe on a credit card to be downloaded onto a personal computer later.

3. Don’t Get Hooked by “Phishing” Scams Online.
· Make sure that you are actually on the website you wish to be on – some online “phishers” create bogus sites that mimic real ones in order to capture shoppers’ personal information.
· When using email, be cautious about clicking on hyperlinks or attachments on unsolicited messages. Even emails that appear to be from familiar and trusted sources can be fraudulent.

4. Regularly Check Your Statements and Credit Reports.
· You should regularly check your bank and credit card statements for suspicious charges. (You can also have your bank or credit card company set up automatic email alerts for large or suspicious purchases.)
· You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the major credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) annually, so request one free report every four months and check it carefully for signs of suspicious activity. You can request the reports online at http://www.annualcreditreport.com. Checking your credit report will not affect your credit rating.

5. Report Lost Cards or Suspicious Charges Immediately.
· If you realize you’ve lost your credit or debit card, report it immediately to avoid fraudulent charges.
· If you’re too late and become the victim of identity theft, report any suspicious activity and unauthorized charges immediately to all of your creditors, as well as the credit bureaus, and file a report with your local police.
· You can have the three credit bureaus place a 90-day fraud alert in your file so that you will be notified if somebody is reviewing your file.
· Request a “security freeze” be placed in your file at each of the three major credit bureaus, which prevents creditors from accessing your credit files to review your history, thus preventing any new credit from being opened for you, unless you authorize the agencies to allow access.

For further suggestions on how to safeguard your identity from scammers, please visit http://www.dfs.ny.gov/consumer/idtheft.htm.

New Yorkers should also be aware of the risks of providing sensitive personal information to online payday loan companies and lead generation firms, which the Cuomo Administration is currently investigating. The information consumers provide to these companies may be passed along or sold to other companies, and even scammers, without your knowledge. Additionally, New Yorkers should know that payday loans are illegal in New York State.

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Bill Would Provide Grants For STEM Educational Opportunities In The Classroom And Through Hands-On Experiences

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Congressman Joe Kennedy (D-MA) have introduced new legislation to encourage women, minorities and economically disadvantaged students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The STEM Gateways Act would provide grants for classroom learning, career preparation, mentoring, internships, informal learning and other appropriate educational activities.

“New York is home to the greatest colleges and universities, and the world’s most innovative minds,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But if we’re going to compete and win in the global economy, we must prepare our students with the education they need for the jobs of the future. That starts with getting more talented young women, minorities, and students in high-need communities into the STEM pipeline. We are relying on our children today to be the innovators of tomorrow. It’s our job to make sure they are prepared.”

“For too long our national STEM efforts have failed to effectively reach critical segments of the US population,” said Rep Kennedy. “By underinvesting in educational opportunities for populations historically underrepresented in STEM fields, we aren’t just doing those individuals a disservice – we are leaving a tremendous amount of economic potential on the table. The STEM Gateways Act will help us close pervasive opportunity gaps and support the diverse and dynamic workforce that leadership in a global innovation economy requires.”

“As a former educator who represents Silicon Valley, I know firsthand that STEM Gateways Act is a step in the right direction to ensure that each and every child receives an excellent education,” said Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA), an original co-sponsor of the bill. “STEM training provides for a high-quality workforce and a well-informed public, and this critical legislation addresses the unique challenges that many women and minority populations face. Closing the opportunity gap will help ensure the future success of our nation.”

Minorities are drastically unrepresented in STEM fields, accounting for only three out of 10 professionals. Not only are the number of women and minorities in STEM fields low, but their numbers are decreasing. The number of engineering bachelor’s degrees awarded to African-American women has steadily declined since the late 1990s. Additionally, students from economically disadvantaged communities struggle to access STEM opportunities, with the vast majority of federal resources channeled into higher education institutions where these populations are significantly underrepresented.

The STEM Gateways Act would provide funding through the U.S. Department of Education to help schools implement rigorous STEM academics, with a focus on reaching underrepresented groups.

Selected elementary and secondary schools in partnership with community colleges, non-profits, and other partner organizations would be able to use federal funding to support STEM, classroom activities, extra-curricular and after-school learning, summer programs, student tutoring and mentoring, and professional development for educators. Such focused efforts on expanding STEM opportunities for girls, minorities and economically disadvantaged students will broaden and strengthen the pipeline of American STEM workers.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 17, 2013) – Sullivan County Treasurer Ira J. Cohen has announced that Standard and Poor’s Rating Service (S&P) has raised its rating on Sullivan County’s general obligation (GO) bonds, from “A+” to “AA,” with a stable outlook.

According to Cohen, S&P actively sought out Sullivan County to participate in its rating review process this past Fall, even though the County was not in the process of issuing bonds, and had not sought a new rating from S&P at the time.

The last time that S&P rated Sullivan County was approximately four years ago when the County participated in a large borrowing that included a pooled borrowing backed by newly issued federal ARRA Recovery Bonds.

At that time, Sullivan County continued its Aa3 rating from Moody’s Rating Service, and earned an A+ from S&P. (Moody’s and S&P employ different ratings scales, so it is difficult to compare the different ratings received by the two agencies.)

“Sullivan County has not asked for a new S&P rating over the past four years, but when they requested that we participate in an update a few months ago, we thought it was a good idea to acquiesce and to remain eligible for future S&P ratings, notwithstanding the risk of a downgrade,” said Cohen.

“The ratings increase is truly an honor bestowed upon the County’s fiscal, management and policy-making officials. Many, if not a majority of municipalities across the State and the Country, including the US Government itself, have experienced ratings decreases. The status quo is often attainable, but only after a well-prepared, lengthy and hard fought presentation. But to be honored with a ratings increase is truly gratifying, and it is a sign that we here in the County government are not alone in our growing optimism for fiscal growth and stability in Sullivan County.”

Cohen said that both he and the elected legislators and their appointees are truly excited about the direction the County is now moving in, as many new economic development projects are moving towards reality, and emphasizes that the S&P rating increase and stable outlook for the future predated the successful gaming referendum. “With Sullivan County apparently poised for selection for one or more class three gaming casinos in the near future, it appears that new job creation and revenue coming into the County in the future will only improve. That, in addition to newly announced large scale projects for the former Kutcher’s Country Club, the Homowack Lodge, the Concord Hotel, the Apollo Plaza, Davos Resorts, and others, bodes extremely well for Sullivan County’s economy, and bond rating, in the future,” said Cohen.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY & PIKE COUNTY, PA (December 16, 2013) – Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Sullivan County

…Winter Weather Advisory In Effect From 5 AM To 5 PM EST Tuesday…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter Weather Advisory For Snow…Which Is In Effect From 5 AM To 5 PM EST Tuesday. *

Locations…Pike County Pennsylvania And Sullivan County New York. *

Hazards…Snow * Accumulations…3 To 5 Inches Of Snow. * Timing…Snow Will Develop Late Tonight And Continue Tuesday Morning. The Snow Will Taper Off To Lighter Snow Showers And Flurries By Late Afternoon. *

Temperatures…Teens In The Morning…And The Low To Mid 20S In The Afternoon. *

Winds…Southeast 5 To 10 Mph With Gusts Up To 20 Mph. *

Impacts…Travel Will Become Hazardous From Snow Covered And Slippery Roads With Occasionally Poor Visbility In Falling Snow.

A Winter Weather Advisory For Snow Means That Periods Of Snow Will Cause Primarily Travel Difficulties. Be Prepared For Snow Covered Roads And Limited Visibilities…And Use Caution While Driving.

Please Report Snowfall And/Or Ice Amounts To The National Weather Service By Calling Toll Free At 1-877-633-6772…Or By Email At Bgm.Stormreport@Noaa.Gov.

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Story & photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (December 15, 2013) – The sixth anniversary celebration of Santa’s Village saw not only an expansion to two weekends – the first being at Upper Room Farms in Bethel – but also more delights at the Hilltop Homes site in Monticello.

The brainchild of David and Corrinne Dunlap, owners of HIlltop Homes, Santa’s Village included an incredible light show, live entertainment by Barry and Ken Somerville, a live broadcast by Thunder 102 radio, a whole bunch of helper elves, a train ride on the Hilltop Express, free hot chocolate and cookies, lots of Christmas inflatables and, of course, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

A photo with Santa was free, with additional copies available for a donation to Sullivan County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Admission was free and each attendee was asked to bring a new unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots campaign run by the local detachment of the Marine Corps League and sponsored by the M&M Auto Group / Thunder 102 / Hilltop Homes “No Child Should in Thunder Country Should Be Without a Toy for the Holidays” Toys for Tots mission.

Free transportation from the parking lot of Monticello Casino and Raceway was provided by Rolling V Bus Company.

You can still donate a new unwrapped toy at any one of these locations.

Here are some photos from the 6th anniversary celebration of Santa’s Village at Hilltop Homes.

To see more photos or to order prints from 2013 Santa’s Village at Hilltop Homes, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 14, 2013) – “Today marks one year since the day this nation lost 26 innocent lives, when 20 children and six teachers became the victims of senseless gun violence at Sandy Hook elementary school. On this difficult day, the families and friends who lost loved ones at Newtown are in the prayers and thoughts of New Yorkers.

” The tragic shooting at Sandy Hook was a horrific wake-up call that we must act on the issue of gun violence before another child’s future is wiped away. All across the country, elected officials, parents and community leaders stood up together to call on their State and Federal governments to pass stronger laws that protect our neighborhoods from dangerous weapons. Here in New York, we passed the NY SAFE Act, comprised of common sense reforms to keep guns out of the hands of the dangerously mentally ill, ban assault weapons and high capacity magazines, and raise the penalty for killing a first responder on duty.

“New York is proud to be home to some of the strongest gun laws in the nation. There is no better way to honor the memories of those we lost at Newtown than to make sure they did not die in vain and work together to pass long overdue gun laws to make this whole country safer. As Washington D.C. remains at a standstill on this issue, I urge our representatives in Congress to reach across the aisle and act now because we cannot have another tragedy like Sandy Hook.”

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MONTICELLO, NY (December 12, 2013) – The Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library is the recipient of a grant for the top books of the year, as voted by teens around the country.

The Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library was awarded a grant from the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), to receive the Teens’ Top Ten books. The books were selected by teens around the country with voting that took place from August 15 through Teen Read Week, which was held from October 13 – 19.

This year there were 28 nominees that competed for the top ten list and over 32,000 votes were cast.

As part of the grant, the library received not only the 10 winning books, but all of the 28 nominated books.

The books are on display in the lower level of the E.B. Crawford library, and the book display was decorated by the Teen Advisory Group. The display will be up through the month of December. Come by to see what teens are reading, and check out a book! For more information on the Teens’ Top Ten, visit the YALSA website: www.yalsa.ala.org. For information on teen programs at the E.B. Crawford Library, contact Joanna Goldfarb at 845-794-4660, or by email at jgoldfarb@rcls.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 11, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced more than $45 million in funding for the Vital Access/Safety Net Provider Program (VAP) to support projects over the next three years by 37 facilities that were selected due to their serious financial condition and critical role in providing services to New York State’s fragile, elderly, and low-income population.

“As the State continues its work to increase access to quality healthcare for New Yorkers, these grants will ensure that these 37 community organizations can continue to serve our most vulnerable populations,” Governor Cuomo said. “This new support will give elderly and low-income New Yorkers expanded and better healthcare service for years to come. The Vital Access/Safety Net Provider Program is yet another key component in the work of the Medicaid Redesign Team and our ongoing efforts to transform the State’s healthcare system to better care for New Yorkers and deliver for taxpayers.”

These funds will be used primarily to improve community care and to achieve defined financial, operational, and quality improvement goals related to integration or reconfiguration of services offered by the facility. Specific examples include:

· expand access to ambulatory services through additional needed services or added hours of operations
· open urgent care centers to help reduce use of emergency rooms
· improve quality through reduced adverse events thus also reducing overall costs
· expand services in rural areas through additional primary and specialty care services
· establish care coordination between providers and levels of health care service delivery
· provide more effective services that meet the needs of the community

The VAP program was established by the Medicaid Redesign Team. The State Department of Health (DOH) received $182 million in available funding for 2013-14. In September 2012, Phase I awards were announced totaling $56 million. With today’s Phase II award of $46 million, $80 million is available for future awards.

DOH will immediately begin working with the 37 awarded facilities to establish goals to measure success of the program and to identify financial, operational, and quality metrics to track progress toward these goals. In addition, the DOH will submit the required documents to the Federal Government for approval. The process is anticipated to take approximately 60 days, and DOH expects to release the funds to the facilities at the beginning of February. Ongoing payments to facilities will be dependent on achieving the agreed upon metrics.

The VAP awards support multi-year projects submitted by hospitals, nursing homes, free standing clinics, and home health providers. To date, DOH has received more than 150 applications totaling $1.2 billion. Due to the significant number of applications received as well as the number of additional facilities that also need support, DOH anticipates funding will come from the MRT Waiver and is working closely with the Federal Government to secure this critical funding. These funds are needed to help providers achieve financial stability and advance ongoing operational changes to improve community care as well as extend health coverage to nearly one million New Yorkers under the Affordable Care Act.

Facilities receiving funding for 2013-14 for their multi-year projects include:

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Story and photos by Carol Montana

LIBERTY, NY (December 9, 2013) – The rain was steady, but so was the holiday spirit at the 2013 Liberty, NY Holiday Parade.

Hundreds of people lined Main Street as the parade of fire trucks, ambulances, police cars and floats from many area organizations brightened the cloudy, rainy night.

The parade was preceded by a brass band at LaPolt park.

Here are some photos from the parade. To see more photos or to purchase prints from the 2013 Liberty Holiday Parade click this link:  http://chronicle.zenfolio.com/p920455125 

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (December 8, 2013) – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 am EST Monday…

* locations… northeast Pennsylvania and Sullivan County in New
York.

* Hazards… freezing drizzle, possibly mixed with light snow and
sleet.

* Snow accumulations… a dusting through morning.

* Ice accumulations… up to one tenth of an inch through mid
morning Monday.

* Timing… flurries will spread north, then transition to
light freezing rain and sleet after midnight. Light
freezing rain and freezing drizzle will continue into early
Monday morning… before changing to light rain by mid morning.

* Temperatures… in the mid 20s.

* Impacts… freezing drizzle leading to icing on area roadways
late tonight and Monday morning.

Precautionary/preparedness actions…

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow… sleet… or
freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for
slippery roads and limited visibilities… and use caution while
driving.

Please report snowfall and/or ice amounts to the National Weather
Service by calling toll free at 1-877-633-6772… or by email at
bgm.Stormreport@noaa.Gov.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 6, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has issued the following statement on the passing of Nelson Mandela. The Governor also directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, December 6, 2013, in honor of President Mandela. 

“Nelson Mandela refused to accept injustice, fought relentlessly for what was right, and showed that a dedicated person of courage actually can change the course of history. His struggle to end racism, poverty and inequality began with his fight against apartheid, continued through his service as the first black President of South Africa and is now passed on for the world to continue. We will not soon see again, nor should we ever forget the profound example of humanity that Nelson Mandela embodied. While President Mandala is no longer with us, here in New York and all around the globe, his legacy lives on. His family and friends, and the people of South Africa, are in my thoughts and prayers along with those of all New Yorkers.”

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Signs Completed at I-190 in Buffalo with Additional Signs in Nyack Coming Soon

NEW YORK STATE (December 6, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced the installation of Doppler-radar-enhanced LED signs to alert wrong way drivers before they enter the Niagara Expressway (I-190) at the southbound exit 9 off-ramp in Buffalo. The signs, which were developed in-house by New York State Thruway Authority staff, will also be installed at exit 10 on I-87/I-287 in Nyack, Rockland County, where wrong way drivers have entered and caused serious accidents in the past.

“New York is the first state in the nation to utilize this sophisticated technology to enhance traffic safety and save lives,” Governor Cuomo said. “Last year the New York State Thruway was the safest it has been in its entire 59 year history, and these signs – which were designed and manufactured in Upstate New York – are helping us continue that progress in new and innovative ways.”

These new signs are the latest development in the Thruway Authority’s work to ensure that motorists have the highest level of safety while on the 570-mile superhighway. Doppler radar is used to detect vehicles traveling the wrong way and when identified, the sign flashes a customized LED message to alert the drivers of their error and instruct them to pull over and turn around when it is safe to do so. The sign will also trigger automatic alerts to other drivers on the Thruway’s variable message sign system, and automatically alert the Thruway’s Statewide Operations Center.

The signs located at exit 9 (I-190) in Buffalo and exit 10 (I-87/I-287) in Nyack are the first two to be installed along the Thruway. This technology will be expanded to several other locations, making the Thruway the only superhighway leader in the nation utilizing this technology. The signs were developed from research by Thruway engineer Steve Velicky, and manufactured by Fiberdyne Labs of Frankfort, NY and Herkimer Industries of Herkimer, NY.

Thruway Authority Chairman Howard P. Milstein said, “Our primary goal at the Thruway is to provide the highest level of safety to our customers. This institutional commitment, the creativity and proactivity of our staff, and Governor Cuomo’s support, illustrate why the Thruway is considered one of the safest roads in the nation year after year.”

Last year, 2012, was the safest year in the history of the Thruway. Nationally, the primary measure of safety is the fatality rate, which is calculated as the number of fatalities per 100 million vehicles miles (MVM) traveled. In 2012, with more than 345 million vehicles traveling approximately 8.5 billion miles on the Thruway, there were 17 fatalities resulting from 15 accidents. These statistics reflect a rate of 0.20 fatalities per 100 MVM, the lowest rate in the Thruway’s 59-year history.

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Lackawaxen, PA and Bethel, NY – Join the Delaware Highlands Conservancy on a guided eagle-viewing bus trip, scheduled on multiple weekends throughout January and February. Learn from an expert guide and take a scenic drive on a heated bus throughout the Upper Delaware River region to look for and learn about magnificent bald eagles and their habitat.

Seats on trips are limited, and reservations are required, so reserve your space today for the following 2014 winter trips (Fee: $15 for members, $20 for non-members). Call the Conservancy at 570-226-3164 or 845-583-1010 or email info@delawarehighlands.org to register unless otherwise noted.

• January 18 – 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• February 1 – Tour with NEPA Audubon Society, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Call Bob at 570-676-9969 or email jeanbob@ptd.net for reservations.

• February 8 –9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• February 15 – Marion "Becky" Finch Memorial Excursion; 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The trips start at the Conservancy’s Winter Field Office in Lackawaxen, PA. Be sure to dress warmly in layers and wear waterproof boots. Bring binoculars, camera, snacks, and a bagged lunch. Check http://www.DelawareHighlands.org for the most up-to-date information and any additional trips. Refunds are not given in the event of cancelled reservations.

The Conservancy’s Winter Field Office is provided by the National Park Service and is a center of information for visitors looking to learn more about viewing and protecting eagles. Visitors can pick up information about the bald eagle in the Upper Delaware River region, get maps and directions to eagle viewing locations, watch a short documentary, and view new interpretative exhibits. The Lackawaxen office is staffed on Saturdays and Sundays throughout January and February and open to visitors from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has also partnered with the NPS and the New York State Department of Conservation to maintain two well-marked viewing areas in the Mongaup Valley on the Rio and Mongaup Falls reservoirs. These viewing blinds are also staffed by Conservancy volunteers on weekends through the winter season, and visitors can look through binoculars and spotting scopes to see magnificent bald eagles in the wild. Visit http://www.DelawareHighlands.org/Eagles for directions and information about eagle viewing on your own.

On January 25, join the Conservancy, PPL, the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, and other local organizations for an educational, fun (and free) Eagle Day for the whole family, located at PPL’s Lake Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center in Hawley, PA. Enjoy a presentation with live birds from Bill Streeter, help to build an eagle’s nest, and participate in other fun activities.

The Upper Delaware River region is one of the largest wintering habitats for eagles in the northeast United States because of abundant clean water and large, undisturbed stands of trees. Protected lands in Sullivan County, NY and Pike and Wayne Counties in PA provide a safe haven for these migratory birds, as well as breeding eagles that live here year-round. Twenty years ago there was just one eagle’s nest in PA and one in NY; now, there are hundreds in each state.

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy works with landowners and communities to protect the healthy lands, clean waters, eagles and other wildlife, and locally sustainable economies of the Upper Delaware River region. For more information, please call 570-226-3164, 845-583-1010, or send an email to info@delawarehighlands.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (December 3, 2013) — Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther wants to remind homeowners receiving the Basic STAR Exemption that they have to re-register for the exemption by December 31st to continue to receive it.

“To ensure taxpayers are protected from inappropriate or fraudulent STAR exemptions, all homeowners receiving the Basic STAR need to register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance to continue receiving exemptions in 2014 and subsequent years,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “Registrations have to be completed by Dec. 31.”

The tax department has already mailed instructions – including a STAR code necessary for registration – to all homeowners who currently receive the Basic STAR exemption. While this registration is required to receive your exemption, homeowners will not need to re-register every year.

Seniors who receive Enhanced STAR are exempt from the new requirements and will not need to register to continue participation in the program. Enhanced STAR recipients must continue to apply annually, or participate in the Income Verification Program like they have in the past. Additionally, first-time applicants are not affected by this year’s registration procedure and must file Form RP-425, Application for School Tax Relief Exemption, with their local assessor.

This new requirement was included in the 2013-14 state budget to help improve the program and safeguard taxpayer money. Improper STAR exemptions cost New Yorkers an estimated $13 million in 2010-11, and that could increase to $73 million by 2015-16.1 To support the registration effort and to discourage fraud and abuse of STAR, individual fines and penalties were incorporated into the program for intentional misinformation and if the exemption is revoked.

“The fastest and easiest way for homeowners to register is through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance’s website at www.tax.ny.gov,” Assemblywoman Gunther added. “Registration and support is also available over the phone by calling 518-457-2036. Of course, if a homeowner has questions or problems, they can always call my office at 845-794-5807.”

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Story & photos by Carol Montana

BETHEL, NY (December 2, 2013) – The 6th anniversary of the family-friendly “Santa’s Village” of Sullivan County has seen an expansion to two locations.

Opening night took place at Upper Room Farms in Bethel featuring lots of  lighted displays, a petting zoo, free hot chocolate and cookies, rides on the Hilltop Express, songs by Cathy Paty Music, pictures with Santa and more.

Santa’s Village continues at Upper Room Farms on Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., and will feature music by Amber Hayes on December 7.

Then on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14, Santa’s Village will return to its original location at Hilltop Homes and will feature a live broadcast by Thunder 102 and music by Somerville on on Friday, December 13.

Attendees at both locations are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy for the M&M Auto Group / Thunder 102 / Hilltop Homes “No Child Should in Thunder Country Should Be Without a Toy for the Holidays” Toys for Tots mission.

Visitors will also be able to donate to Sullivan County Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Here are some photos from the first evening of Santa’s Village. To see more photos or to order prints from Santa’s Village at Upper Room Farms, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (December 1, 2013) – SUNY Sullivan will be packing as much of the great outdoors as it can into its Paul Gerry Field House on Saturday, March 22. The 2014 Sportsman & Outdoor Rec Expo will begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue until 8:00 p.m. Admission is $4.00 for adults and free for children under the age of 12.

Attendees will get a look at all of the latest in equipment and merchandise on the market for sportsman, outdoor enthusiasts, and the hobbies they love. See the latest for hunting and fishing, camping, canoeing and boating, archery, golfing, ATVs, and much more.

The family-friendly event will include product demos from industry trend-setters. There will be children’s entertainment all day long, as well as raffles for valuable prizes throughout the event. Food vendors will also be on hand.

Love the outdoors? If you’re a sporting fan, if you’re an active person who regularly invites adventure into your life, then this event is for you. Sponsors include the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce, the Sullivan County Visitors Association, Sullivan County Friends With Firearms, and the New York State Rifle & Pistol Association.

For vendors serving the sporting and outdoor recreation markets, there is still some space available. If you would like to be part of this event, you can get more information and reserve your area on the expo floor by contacting Hillary Egeland at 845-434-5750, extension 4377.

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NEW YORK STATE (November 30, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo is encouraging New Yorkers to take advantage of the state’s revamped “Pride of New York” website, located at www.prideofny.com, to search for the best in locally grown and produced New York State food and beverage products this upcoming holiday season.

“Whether you’re looking for a bakery on Long Island or a winery in the North Country, the ‘Pride of New York’ website offers an extensive collection of New York’s finest local producers to help complete your holiday season,” said Governor Cuomo.

“Buying food and beverages that are grown and produced right here in New York is an important way to support local vendors as well as the State’s agricultural industries. I encourage every New Yorker to use this valuable resource as they prepare for the upcoming holidays and taste the very best that New York has to offer.”

“Pride of New York” is the state’s branding program for the promotion of New York food, beverage and agricultural products. It is an important component of Governor Cuomo’s Taste NY initiative, which is dedicated to bringing to New Yorkers the best products grown and made in the state. In October of this year, Governor Cuomo unveiled the “Pride of New York” Pledge, a new initiative that encourages restaurants and chefs across the state to increase their use of New York products by 10 percent or more.

The newly-redesigned “Pride of New York” website allows people to conduct specific searches of databases from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets in a user friendly format. Searchers first choose from among the main categories, such as Agritourism, Baked Goods, Dairy, Nursery/Plants, and Seafood. They can then choose the type of business they’re looking for, whether it’s a retail outlet, a restaurant, a farm, a manufacturer, or several other classifications. They then give their zip code and choose how far they’re willing to travel. There is an additional option for those who would like directions to the location.

The website also features a map and list showing various search results, which include addresses and contact information of each establishment. There are more than 3,000 members of the “Pride of New York” program listed in this database along with numerous other agribusinesses.

In addition to helping consumers find New York food, the “Pride of New York Program” assists farmers and food and beverage processors in promoting their products by using the Pride of New York emblem.

To find out more about the “Pride of New York” program, call 1-800-554-4501 or visit www.prideofny.com.

To join the “Pride of New York” program, visit:https://www.prideofny.com/PONY/pdfs/PrideGenApp.pdf

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Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (November 29, 2013) – On Saturday, November 23 the 3rd Annual “Where You’re Going Event” was held at Monticello Casino & Raceway.

Featuring Jason Casterlin, Barry & Ken Somerville and Jimmy Wayne, admission to the event was a new unwrapped toy for the local Toys for Tots campaign sponsored by M&M Auto Group and Thunder 102 radio as “No Child in Thunder Country Should be Without a Toy for the Holidays.” Donations for Sullivan County CASA were also being collected. Performer Jimmy Wayne is the national spokesperson for CASA or Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Accepting the toys in the Casino lobby were a small group of Marines and members of the Marine Corps League Catskill Detachment 652.

The event raised close to $300 in cash for CASA and collected nearly 400 toys for children who would otherwise be without one for the 2013 holiday season. To contribute to CASA call 845-807-0672. New unwrapped toys can be dropped off at any of the locations listed here: Toys for Tots drop-off locations.

Here are some photos from the “Where You’re Going Event.” To see more photos or to purchase prints from "Where You’re Going" at Monticello Raceway, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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