The Catskill Chronicle

BARRYVILLE, NY (October 30, 2013) – Sullivan Trailkeeper is an online resource outlet for hiking trails and public lands in Sullivan County with easy-to-read, easy-to-access maps and facilities information and guides to hiking safety.

In celebration of its one year anniversary, the Trailkeeper.org partners are pleased to announce an educational walk through the Minisink Battleground located off Scenic Byway Route 97 on County Road 168 in Barryville, NY on Sunday, November 10 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Sullivan County Historian John Conway will lead a short stroll and guided talk through the wooded paths of the Battleground, site of the only Revolutionary War battle fought in the Upper Delaware Region.

The Woodland Trail is a short, mildly challenging trail featuring informative signage, wetlands, a rock quarry, and a wide variety of wildlife, eventually looping around to the Minisink Battle Monument.

The Minisink Battleground Trails are featured on the website trailkeeper.org/, an online outlet for hiking trails and public lands in Sullivan County, NY with easy-to-read maps and trail information that matches hiker to trail. TrailKeeper.org also links hikers to nearby dining, lodging and attractions and offers hiking safety information.

This mid-afternoon meander will be followed by local, hot apple cider and fall harvest treats. Participation is free but pre-registration is strongly encouraged. The public can register with Catskill Mountainkeeper by calling Erin Burch at 845-707-1326 by November 8.

Visit www.TrailKeeper.org to learn more about the trail, view a map, and print directions.

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Trailkeeper.org, launched in September 2012, is the result of a partnership between the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, Catskill Mountainkeeper, the Sullivan County Division of Planning and Environmental Management, the Sullivan County Visitors Association, Cornell Cooperative Extension and Morgan Outdoors, with support from the National Park Service, NY/NJ Trail Conference, Sullivan Renaissance and the Upper Delaware Council. For more information onTrailKeeper.org, email info@trailkeeper.org or contact Catskill Mountainkeeper at 845-482-5400.

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MONTICELLO, NY (October 29, 2013) – The Monticello Kiwanis Club recently hosted its 68^th annual installation dinner at the Blue Horizon Diner.

Newly elected Kiwanis Lt. Gov. Sue Bahren installed the following club officers for 2013-2014: President – Jane Sorensen; First VP – Deborah Kaplan; Second VP – Sheila Lashinsky; Treasurer – Janet Siano; Secretary – Kathy Garlick.

The club continues to be involved with child-related activities. Books on the subject of friendship were purchased by the Kiwanis Club and distributed to second graders at the Kenneth L. Rutherford Elementary School to coincide with what they were studying in class. The books will be read in class and then the students will each be given a book to take home and will be encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings about the story with family members.

Upcoming events include the Bernie Shore Memorial Roast Beef Dinner which will be held on November 4 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Monticello Elks Lodge. The cost is $12 for eat in or take out. Members of the Monticello High School Key Club will be serving the dinner. Tickets are being sold by Kiwanis members or can be purchased at the door.

The club is also selling beautiful multi-colored roses for $15 per dozen. Orders must be received by November 15 and picked up on November 26.

Thanksgiving baskets will be prepared and distributed to United Way for circulation to needy families in time for the holiday.

For more information about the Roast Beef Dinner, Rose Sale or general questions about the Monticello Kiwanis Club, contact Lori Benjamin at 845-794-7050.

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LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (October 28, 2013) – On Halloween, SUNY Sullivan will be opening the campus to area families for a Safe Trick-or-Treat event.

The event will begin at 4:00 p.m. on October 31 and continue until 6:00 p.m.

Parents and elementary school aged children will be taken on a guided walk through campus, stopping in at participating offices to collect treats. Costumes are encouraged.

Parents are asked to park in Parking Lot 1. SUNY Sullivan staff, acting as Trick-or-Treat Guides, will meet visitors at the A Building adjacent to Lot 1.

There will also be a family-friendly Halloween movie at 6:30 p.m. in the Student Union. Families are invited to stick around for this viewing of "Hocus Pocus."

Snacks and seasonal activities for children will be going on in the Student Union.

For more information on this Safe Trick-Or-Treat event, please contact the Office of Student Activities at 845-434-5750 ext. 4397.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 26, 2013) – Sullivan County Legislative Chairman Scott Samuelson and Roberta Byron-Lockwood, president of the Sullivan County Visitors Association, have been named to New York Jobs Now.

A broad coalition of business leaders, labor unions, economic development professionals, and educators recently announced the formation of NY Jobs Now in support of Proposal #1, an amendment authorizing casino gaming on November’s ballot.

This statewide group joins Citizens for New York State Gaming, a Sullivan County-based grassroots organization that has been working to ensure passage of this legislation.

On November 5, New Yorkers will have the opportunity to vote on whether to amend the State Constitution and permit limited commercial casinos for regions in upstate New York. With approval of the referendum, the Upstate New York Gaming and Economic Development Act would permit up to four new upstate casinos in the Catskills, Capital Region, and the Southern Tier.

The Empire State Development corporation estimates over 10,000 construction and permanent jobs will be created by these four new upstate casinos, while also benefitting hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Proposal #1 also means hundreds of millions of dollars in new school aid, property tax relief, and aid to local governments. The New York State Division of Budget estimates $430 million in new tax revenue will be generated every year, with 100% of that revenue mandated as additional funding for education, property tax relief, or local government aid statewide. This funding is additional and will not replace existing state aid, including lottery funding for schools.

For more information, visit www.VoteYESforProp1.com.

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NEW YORK STATE (October 25, 2013) Governor Andrew M. Cuomo is encouraging New York’s domestic violence victims to register to receive alerts for when Family Court orders of protection are served through the Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification Network (SAVIN) system, which instantly notifies victims with information that is crucial to enhancing their safety. SAVIN uses the technology that powers NY-ALERT (www.nyalert.gov) to send notifications of service to domestic violence victims 24 hours a day, seven days a week via text message, e-mail, fax and automated phone call. SAVIN recently expanded to Manhattan and Staten Island with additional boroughs to be added in the coming months. It is available in all counties outside of New York City.

“The time immediately following when an order of protection is served can be the most dangerous for a victim of domestic violence,” Governor Cuomo said. “But when armed with the technology that the SAVIN system provides, victims of domestic violence can receive timely notifications and take appropriate steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from further harm. I encourage victims to sign up for this service as soon as possible.”

The program serves as an example of how the State can partner with a not-for-profit organization to effectively and efficiently deliver services that will make a difference in people’s lives. The State partnered with the New York State Sheriffs’ Association Institute to make the SAVIN system available in New York. The Sheriffs’ Association Institute received a $495,000 grant from the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance to bring the SAVIN program to New York State and worked in partnership with the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, Office of Victim Services, and the New York State Police among others to implement it.

Notifications are currently only available for orders of protection issued by Family Courts outside of New York City. The system is currently being piloted in Family Courts in Manhattan and Staten Island, in cooperation with the New York City Sheriff’s Office. The system is scheduled to be piloted in the remaining three boroughs – Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens – by early next year. The Sheriffs’ Association Institute also is exploring how the system can be expanded to include notification of orders of protection issued by criminal courts.
Individuals can register to receive SAVIN-NY alerts by visiting www.nyalert.gov and clicking on the “Orders of Protection” box on the left menu. When registering with SAVIN-NY, victims also can identify additional individuals to be notified when orders of protection are served, such as advocates, attorneys, friends or family members.

Gwen Wright, executive director of the state’s Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, said, “I urge all advocates to learn about SAVIN and to encourage their clients to take advantage of this potentially life-saving resource. Domestic violence victims should take advantage of any and all safety measures at their disposal when in a dangerous situation.”

Additional information and frequently asked questions about the SAVIN program can be found at www.savin-ny.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (October 24, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently signed a new law that will better protect baby boomer New Yorkers from Hepatitis C by requiring hospitals and health service providers to offer testing for the virus to all patients born between 1945 and 1965.

"Hepatitis C is a debilitating and potentially fatal disease that disproportionately affects the baby boomer generation in New York and nationwide," Governor Cuomo said. "This new law will help fight Hepatitis C and keep New Yorkers safe by providing testing to those most likely to have this virus whenever they visit a medical facility. I thank Senator Hannon and Assembly Member Zebrowski for their work on this important legislation."

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 75 % of Hepatitis C infection and about 73 % of Hepatitis C-associated mortality occurs in individuals born between 1945 and 1965 – baby boomers. New York State Department of Health statistics show that as many as 150,000 New Yorkers are unaware of their Hepatitis C status. The new law (A.1286-A/S.2750-A) will ensure that all individuals born between 1945 and 1965 are offered a hepatitis C screening test or diagnostic test whenever they are a patient at a hospital, clinic or a physician’s office.

The new law will take effect on January 1, 2014.

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FALLSBURG, NY (October 23, 2013) – The Fallsburg Police station in South Fallsburg, NY is the home of a new 24/7 Prescription Drug Drop Box. Sullivan County residents are urged to dispose of unwanted pills by dropping them inside this unit to prevent prescriptions from ending up in the wrong hands and to protect the environment.

Chief Williams will oversee the contents and disposal which will coincide with the county’s prescription drug take back days.

It is no longer recommended to flush pills or bury them in landfills. Residents can also help protect the environment by using this box or participating in our upcoming National Drug Take Back Day on October 26  at various locations throughout the county.

This first drug drop box was purchased by the Sullivan County Rural Health Network. The Sullivan County Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force, a subcommittee of the Rural Health Network, meets monthly at Sullivan County Public Health Services to discuss ideas for prevention strategies. The task force has been networking with the Recovery Center who is the lead agency on National Prescription Drug Take Back Days.

The next Prescription Drug Take Back Day is October 26 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Fallsburg Police station, Liberty Police station, Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris, and the Ted Stroebele Center in Monticello.

The task force would like to thank, Alyssa Piatek, Liberty High School, for her winning logo entry for the drug drop box. All area high school graphic art teachers were notified in the spring and asked to invite their students to help design a new logo. The task force also thanks Rhonda Owens and Jeff Bank for their monetary donation for the winner; the Fallsburg Police Dept and Chief Williams for committing time to help curb the tide of the increasing epidemic of prescription drug abuse; Greg Tavormina, who was instrumental in obtaining the site of the first SCRHN drug drop box.

For more information call Sue Clark at 845-292-5910, ext. 2222 at Sullivan County Public Health Services.

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WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, NY (October 22, 2013) – Having just celebrated its 17^th anniversary, Big Sky Productions of Grahamsville continues its practice of performing benefits for non-profit organizations with “B-I-N-G-O Spells Murder.”

A benefit for the Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce, “B-I-N-G-O Spells Murder” by Robert Mattson, will be presented as a dinner theatre production, on October 26 at the White Sulphur Springs Fire Hall on Route 52 in White Sulphur Springs. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the show starts promptly at 6:30 p.m.

In the cast are Bob and Carol Bliefernich of Highland Lake, Leif Johansen of Jeffersonville, Madison Breslin of Hankins, Constance Lawrence of Divine Corners, Stephen Lavelle of Liberty, and Paul Ciliberto, host of Ciliberto and Friends on Thunder 102, of Liberty.

The story opens with Father O’Sullivan, head of the financially challenged Our Lady of Almost Lost Causes Orphanage, trying to conduct a bingo game to raise money for the final mortgage payment. In the meantime, he has young people struggling with their blooming relationship, real estate developers who want to turn the house of God into the condos of God, a mobster who is struggling with the English  language, and a bookkeeper who’s struggling with her need for everything to be perfect. When one of the characters gets killed and money disappears, everyone has means, motive and opportunity. 

Plus, there will be a real bingo game (with a prize) to wrap up the performance.

Guests are welcome to BYOB or other liquid refreshment.

“B-I-N-G-O Spells Murder” is directed by Big Sky’s longtime artistic director Carol Montana, who has directed over 40 plays including the critically acclaimed: “Driving Miss Daisy,” “The Sunshine Boys,” “Chapter Two,” “The Dining Room,” “I Ought to Be in Pictures,” “The Exonerated” and “On Golden Pond.”

Admission is $25.00 and includes the show as well as a homemade dinner including salad, lasagna, dessert, coffee/tea.

Tickets are available at the following businesses in Liberty: Barbanti Realty, Antique Palace Emporium, Catskill Hudson Bank, Hillside Greenhouses, Jeff Bank, Liberty Diner and Liberty Fitness Center, plus Monique’s Books in White Sulphur Springs.

For information and reservations, call 845-292-2270. Reservations are strongly suggested.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY – Sullivan County Acting Manager Joshua Potosek has announced the filing of a tentative budget.

“Sullivan County has faced extreme budgetary challenges through the financial crisis over the past five years. As we approach the conclusion of 2013, the County is slowly beginning to improve financially.” This proposed budget is the first since the beginning of the recession that does not include drastic service cuts, layoffs, exorbitant tax increases, or the use of fund balance in the general fund, but instead maintains existing service levels and modestly builds capacity in a few key strategic areas.

" I am very encouraged by the submission of this budget. Last year was a very challenging year. I am proud of this legislature for their restraint and dedication that has allowed for this submission. We will, over the next sveral weeks continue to search for further cost saving measures and quite possibly bring the final budget in at or below the state mandated tax cap. It is the goal.” stated Scott Samuelson, Chairman of the Sullivan County Legislature.

“The 2014 Tentative County Budget gives Sullivan County the ability to appropriate money for strategic investments for the future of Sullivan County,” stated Potosek. The recommended budget includes increased funding to support investments in economic development, public works, public safety, youth, agriculture, veterans, and flood remediation. “I feel that it is important to commit increased resources in these areas to improve our economy and improve the quality of life for the citizens of Sullivan County,” added Potosek.

“Overall I am happy with the direction the county is headed. I look forward to working diligently with my colleagues over the next nine weeks to examine the budget to see what can be done to keep the tax levy increase within the tax cap.” stated Kathleen LaBuda, Sullivan County Majority Leader and District 2 Legislator.

The 2014 Tentative County Budget proposes to increase the tax levy by 3.59% in order to maintain existing service levels, not appropriate fund balance, and to strategically invest in key strategic areas. This raises an additional $1,951,647 and equates to an approximate monthly increase of $3 for an average homeowner.

Compared to the 2013 Adopted Budget, the 2014 Tentative Budget anticipates $250,000 less in sales tax, an increase of $1,130,000 in health insurance contributions, and an increase of $893,000 in pension contributions. Together, these three items represent a potential $2,273,000 increase in the tax levy, well in excess of the 2.12% New York State allowable tax cap for Sullivan County.

“ Our efforts to hold the line on spending has improved the County’s financial health, but we need to continue to carefully scrutinize all expenditures in order to reduce the tax burden on property owners,” stated Alan Sorenson, Sullivan County Minority Leader and District 9 Legislator.

As other municipalities in New York have appropriated significant amounts of fund balance to remain within the tax cap, this budget does not. Appropriating fund balance at any level is not a sustainable practice and will eventually result in future tax increases far in excess of the tax cap. It is fiscally prudent to maintain the county’s level of fund balance at or above the recommended threshold of five percent of General Fund Expenditures as set by the Sullivan County Legislature.

To view the 2014 Tentative Sullivan County Budget please visit:

http://webapps.co.sullivan.ny.us/docs/omb/CountyofSullivanTentativeBudget_2014.pdf

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Story and photos by Carol Montana

NARROWSBURG, NY (October 20, 2013) – Under a clear, dark sky on October 12, the mystery of the disappearance of Joseph Skinner came to life at Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History.

The first-ever Haunted History Lantern Tour combined the story of the first  European murdered in the Upper Delaware River Valley with the tales of Washington Irving and Johnny Cicero Ceasar Darling.

Costumed interpreters held lanterns and led the tours, beginning with the true story of who killed Joseph Skinner told by Sullivan County Historian John Conway.

The blacksmith told a story; there was a visit with the widow Skinner, the story of the Headless Horseman and a tall tale about Johnny Darling.

The King’s Highlanders, an 18th century Scottish pipe and drum band provided music and there was even some dancing by the interpreters.

And every once in a while, a ghostly figure could be seen on the fort’s ramparts.

Following the tours, guests enjoyed cider and donuts, and browsed the gift shop.

Proceeds from the tours benefited The Delaware Company, friends of Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History, a non-profit group dedicated to supporting and promoting the history and historic landmarks of the Upper Delaware.

For more information about the Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History, call  845-252-6660 or visit http://fortdelawaremuseum.org/. 

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LIBERTY, NY (October 18, 2013) – Homeowners and renters can learn to reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills at a Save Energy, Save Dollars

workshop on Sunday, October 27.

This EmPower New York class is being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at 3:30 p.m. at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

Participants who attend this free event will learn about reducing energy bills by following some low-cost and no-cost energy conservation methods. Each person will receive three (3) compact fluorescent light bulbs at no cost.

Advanced registration is encouraged by calling 845-292-6180.

This program is one in a series of identical classes. Additional dates and times can be obtained by visiting ww.human.cornell.edu/dea/outreach/index.cfm and selecting “Empower Energy Use Management Workshop Schedule.”

EmPower New York workshops are sponsored by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and developed by Cornell University Cooperative Extension and NYSERDA.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 17, 2013) – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther will be awarded the Ruth Bennett Humanitarian Award at SullivanArc’s 22^nd annual Community Recognition Event on Wednesday, October 23.

Assemblywoman Gunther represents the 100th District, which includes most of Sullivan County and a part of Orange County. She is the only nurse in the New York State Assembly and serves as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. Aileen has been an ardent supporter and advocate for SullivanArc and people with developmental disabilities in New York State.

Also being awarded SullivanArc’s President’s Award will be Anthony Perito of Colonial-Bryant Funeral Homes in Sullivan County. Anthony will be awarded for his boundless community spirit and his commitment to excellence.

The Awards event will take place at The Sullivan in Rock Hill starting at 6:00 p.m. For reservations, call Joan Glase at 845-796-1350 ext. 1050 or visit http://www.sullivanarc.org to purchase tickets online. Tickets are $85 per person and include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dessert. There will also be a silent auction to benefit the SullivanArc Foundation.

SullivanArc has been supplying support & services to people with developmental disabilities since 1949.

For more information call Joan Glase, Director of Public Relations at SullivanArc, at 845-796-1350 ext. 1050 or visit www.sullivanarc.org.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (October 16, 2013) – On October 31 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., the CAS Arts Center at 48 Main Street, Livingston Manor will  be open late with free candy for trick-or-treaters and “CAS by Candlelight,” an eerie evening gallery walk.

“CAS by Candlelight” whisks visitors back before the modern age, allowing them to experience art as they never have before, in the stillness of the dark with only candles for light. Akin to the salons of the 19^th century, it lends a eerie new perspective to the CAS galleries.

Visitors will view the current exhibit “In Parallel,” featuring work by local artists Ellen Cibula and William Landau, which is on display at the CAS Arts Center from Saturday, October 12 through Sunday, November 17.

“In Parallel” brings two local artists together with striking bodies of work playing with line, dimension, space, and surprising shocks of color. Tapping into the common geometry that lies beneath everything, these paintings and drawings riff freely, unrestrained, to spin worlds of their own. Ellen Cibula describes her new paintings as “energy fields,” created in relation to one another with structures she calls both “musical” and “mathematical.” William Landau layers paint and prints onto fabricated and sometimes raw materials in a presentation he calls “Heavy Metal,” repurposing locally sourced media into art akin to “nature, jazz music, and oddities.”

Regular gallery hours at the CAS Arts Center are Thursdays – Saturdays 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sundays 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and Mondays 11:00 a.m. –6:00 p.m.

The CAS Arts Center is wheelchair accessible.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 16, 2013) – Election Day is just around the corner.

If you are not going to be in Sullivan County on Election Day, the Board of Elections wishes to remind you that you can vote by absentee ballot either by mail or in person at their office in the Sullivan County Government Center.

In order to accommodate absentee voters, the Board of Elections has extended their weekly 9:00 to 5:00 hours on the following days:

On Wednesday October 23 and Wednesday October 30, the office will be open until 7:00 p.m.

On Saturday October 26 and Saturday November 2, the office will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

The Board of Elections is located on the ground floor of the Sullivan County Government Center located at 100 North Street in Monticello. For additional information call 845-807-0400.

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GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (October 15, 2013) – On September 5, 1778, in a valley near where the Chestnut Brook flows into the Pepacton Creek, a contingent of 21 mostly inexperienced soldiers of the Colonial Militia under the command of Lt. John Graham were ambushed by a group of Native Americans and Tories. All but three of the militia were killed.

Nearly 100 years later, James Eldridge Quinlan wrote in his History of Sullivan County that "[w]ithout knowing it, [Graham] and his party were as completely in the power of the enemy as if they had been a covey of patridges under the fowler’s net."

The ambush has become known as the Battle at Chestnut Woods, and Sullivan County Historian John Conway will discuss the events leading up to that bloody day as well as the aftermath when he presents “The Massacre in the Woods” at the Daniel Pierce Library in Grahamsville on Friday, October 25 at 7:00 p.m.

The program is co-sponsored by the Daniel Pierce Library, Time and the Valleys Museum and the Town of Neversink. For more information, call 845-985-7233.

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WURTSBORO, NY (October 14, 2013) – The Wurtsboro traditional Halloween in the Park and Howl-O-Ween Costume Pet Parade will be held in Veteran’s Park with a Pet Costume Contest and a Children’s Costume Contest.

The event will be held on Saturday, October 26 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Contest registration is at 12:00 p.m. – $5.00 per Pet, Children 12 years old and under – free

Pre registration is available at Sudsy Paws, 135 Sullivan Street, Wurtsboro on October 21.

Also pet merchandise will be available with proceeds benefiting the Sullivan County SPCA.

There will also be live music in the Park and baked goods, face painting and lot’s of children’s activities.

An added feature this year will be a “Facebook children’s costume contest, post your funniest, scariest costume on our Facebook page and the most “likes” will be the winner with a fun prize.

For the Facebook page click here: Wurtsboro Board of Trade.

Parking is free.

For more information, please see the website, for additional updates as they occur www.wurtsboro.org. Write to info@wurtsboro.org or call 845-283-3361 or 845-888-8080.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 13, 2013) – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D, I, WF – Forestburgh) recently announced that Governor Andrew Cuomo recently signed legislation that would include pharmacies as a disposal site for unused controlled substances (A1101-B) once federal regulations are adopted.

“Seventy percent of prescription drug abusers get their drugs from a family member or friend,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “This legislation is a proactive step to getting unused prescription drugs out of the home and away from people who would sell or abuse them.”

Under current federal rules, only law enforcement agencies are qualified disposal sites. In 2012, the US Drug Enforcement Agency published proposed regulations that would expand options for drug disposal. 

Assemblywoman Gunther’s legislation directs the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health to include pharmacies as qualified disposal sites on a voluntary basis and develop regulations for the anticipated change in federal rules.

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NEW YORK STATE (October 11, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo is urging New York women to get checked for breast cancer and reminded women statewide that early detection and education about breast cancer saves lives.

In addition, the Governor highlighted various prevention and early detection programs being overseen by the New York State Department of Health (DOH) some of which assist both uninsured and under insured in New York.

“New York State is taking steps to provide breast cancer early detection and prevention programs for all New York women, including those who don’t yet have insurance,” said Governor Cuomo. “I urge New Yorkers to be proactive about check-ups and screenings, as well as educate themselves about breast cancer because early detection can save lives. We will continue to provide women with as much information and services as possible to protect their health.”

"Great strides have been made in early detection and treatment of breast cancer, and many women diagnosed with the disease are living long, healthy lives," said State Health Commissioner, Nirav R. Shah, M.D., M.P.H. "During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we urge women to consult with their health care providers to learn more about the disease, discuss their concerns, and develop an appropriate plan for breast cancer screening."

In July 2012, the Governor signed legislation that was designed to help improve breast cancer detection and prevention by requiring mammography services to inform patients if dense breast tissue is found during an exam.

Dense breast tissue can make it harder to find cancer on a mammogram and may also be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The new law required mammography providers to include the following notification in the summary of the mammography report provided to patients who are found to have dense tissue: "Your mammogram shows that your breast tissue is dense. Dense breast tissue is very common and is not abnormal. However, dense breast tissue can make it harder to find cancer on a mammogram and may also be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This information about the result of your mammogram is given to you to raise your awareness. Use this information to talk to your doctor about your own risks for breast cancer. At that time, ask your doctor if more screening tests might be useful, based on your risk. A report of your results was sent to your physician."

New York State Breast Cancer initiatives include:

• Breast Cancer Prevention – DOH administers a variety of programs and projects specific to breastfeeding; breastfeeding has been found to be a protective factor in the development of breast cancer. The programs and projects focus on one or more of the following strategies: Enact policies, regulations and laws to support and protect a woman’s right to breastfeed; Increase Monitoring and Transparency of Infant Feeding; Support Implementation of promising practices through the translation of evidence-based research.

• Early Detection – The Department’s Cancer Services Program (CSP) oversees the delivery of comprehensive breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening services to eligible New York State (NYS) residents through, currently, 40 contracts with organizations known as CSP partnerships. Over 5,000 providers are credentialed to provide clinical services through the CSP. The CSP partnerships facilitate the provision of screening and diagnostic services and assist those diagnosed with cancer to obtain prompt treatment. The priority population for the CSP is women and men whose incomes are at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty guideline and who have no health insurance or whose insurance does not cover screening or diagnostic services. In the 2012-2013 program year, over 45,000 eligible New Yorkers were screened for breast, cervical and/or colorectal cancer through the CSP.

• Community-Based Breast Cancer Education, Counseling, Outreach and Support Services – The Department funds ten breast cancer organizations throughout the state to provide community-based supportive/educational services for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. Services provided by these organizations vary but include: support groups, breast cancer educational seminars, and wellness events. State funds support this work, which began in April 2008.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in New York State (NYS). There are approximately 14,000 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed each year in NYS, and almost 2,800 women die from the disease annually. The risk of breast cancer increases with age and varies across racial groups. White women are more likely than black women to be diagnosed with breast cancer and less likely to have breast cancer diagnosed at a late stage. Among women with breast cancer, black women are more likely than white women to die from the disease.

NYS has met the Healthy People 2020 objective of 81.1% of women aged 50 to 74 receiving breast cancer screening every two years, with 81.5 % of NYS women, aged 50-74, indicating that they have received a mammogram within the past two years. There are some subpopulations that are less likely to be screened. In NYS, women aged 40 to 74 years without health insurance are significantly less likely to have received a mammogram within the past two years (56.1%) compared to women aged 40 to 74 years with health insurance (79.6%).

More information about cancer screening can be found at the following website:
http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/screening/

Uninsured women should call NYSDOH Cancer Services Program at 1-866-442-CANCER (2262) or visitwww.health.ny.gov/cancerservicesprogram to find a free cancer screening in your community.

For ways to reduce your risk for breast cancer, visit www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/breast/screening_and_prevention.htm

Breast Cancer Fact Sheet:

http://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/cancer/registry/abouts/breast.htm

Information on Community Resources (Free Cancer Screenings)

http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/services/community_resources/

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NEW YORK STATE (October 10, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has proclaimed October 2013 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in New York State, and he encourages all New Yorkers to participate in the State’s annual Shine the Light on Domestic Violence campaign by wearing purple on Wednesday, October 16.

“New York State is committed to providing the victims of domestic violence the protections and justice they need, and ensuring that offenders are appropriately penalized for their atrocious actions,” Governor Cuomo said. “The designation of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and our Shine the Light campaign seeks to raise awareness of what New Yorkers can do to help combat domestic violence and sends a message in our communities that it will not be tolerated in this state.”

Coordinated by the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV), the Shine the Light campaign promotes the use of the color purple – long associated with domestic violence awareness – in creative ways throughout October to raise awareness of the issue and efforts to combat it.

For example, landmarks and buildings across the state, including Niagara Falls, Syracuse University’s Hall of Languages, Schenectady City Hall, the State University of New York’s Administration Building, the Mid-Hudson Bridge, and Times Square, have been bathed in or featured purple lights as part of the campaign.

OPDV Executive Director Gwen Wright said, “Governor Cuomo stands with us in affirming the seriousness of domestic violence by proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in New York State. Our annual Shine the Light campaign further supports individuals and communities across the state by providing them with a low- or no-cost way to participate in the effort to spread awareness of the issue, since awareness is a critical component in the prevention of domestic violence.”

More than 500 entities across the state, including municipal governments, the courts, private businesses, colleges, non-profit organizations, law enforcement agencies and crime victims’ assistance programs, have participated in the campaign since it began in 2008.

In addition to using purple lights to illuminate buildings and other structures, groups have used purple in a variety of ways, including creating a “living” purple ribbon, composed of individuals wearing purple and photographed in the iconic shape; hosting a purple scavenger hunt; and hanging banners and distributing wrist bands and other materials with awareness messages and information about where to get help.

Entities and individuals who participate in the State’s Shine the Light campaign by turning purple or wearing the color on October 16 or any other day in the month are encouraged to submit their photos to opdvpurple@opdv.ny.gov so that OPDV may share them via Facebook (www.facebook.com/nysdomesticviolence) and Twitter (@NYSOPDV). Join the conversation on Twitter: #shinethelight.

New York is the only state in the nation to have an executive-level agency that has the sole mission of fighting and preventing domestic violence. Since taking office, Governor Cuomo has made strengthening the state and local response to domestic violence, a crime which disproportionately affects women and children, a priority.

Victims of domestic violence and sexual assault can seek help 24 hours a day by calling New York State’s toll-free hotline: 1-800-942-6906 or 1-800-942-6908 (Spanish language). There are also programs statewide that provide direct services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, including counseling and emergency shelter for victims and their children. Information about those programs is available via New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence website: http://www.nyscadv.org, and the New York State Office of Victim Services (www.ovs.ny.gov) also funds 186 programs that assist crime victims across the state.

The Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (www.opdv.ny.gov) is charged with improving the response of state and local communities to domestic violence. OPDV provides guidance to Executive staff on policy and legislation; conducts statewide community outreach and public education programs; and trains professionals on addressing domestic violence in a wide array of disciplines, including child welfare, law enforcement and health care.

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MONTICELLO, NY (October 9, 2013) – In February 2011, Sullivan County launched the ProAct Prescription Discount Card for their residents. The program targets those individuals who are uninsured or underinsured by providing financial relief at local participating pharmacies. Residents of Sullivan County utilized the discount card to fill more than 11,000 prescriptions and collectively saved over $800,000 since the start of the program.

By partnering with ProAct, Sullivan County is one of many counties across the country that has been able to provide their residents, regardless of age or income, affordable access to prescription medications. Every prescription receives a discount, including some pet medications. When visiting the pharmacy simply show the pharmacist/pharmacist technician the discount card and you can anticipate saving an average of 10-20% off name brand medications and 20-70% off generic medications. Residents can visit the discount card website at http://www.NYRxDiscountCard.com to locate the nearest participating pharmacy as well as check the cost of their medications.

“This program was initiated with the goal of helping alleviate some financial inconveniences to all residents,” said Cindy Gieger, Chair of the Health & Family Services Committee. “We encourage every household to keep a discount card on-hand whether or not they are insured, in the off chance they need to purchase a prescription at full price” added Gieger.

The ProAct Prescription Discount Card Program is completely free for the county and residents. Discount cards have been provided to county offices including the Department of Social Services, the Public Health Department, and the County Office Building and to all participating pharmacies. To acquire a discount card or if your card has been lost, please visit one of the above referenced locations or if you have access to the internet, you may print a Sullivan County card at http://www.NYRxDiscountCard.com with a few simple clicks.

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The annual Heart of the Manor Award this year will go to the ten individuals who worked so hard on beautifying town for Sullivan Renaissance that Livingston Manor won the top award of $25,000. A dinner honoring Jan Carlson, Gail Denman, Marge Feuerstein, Diane Foster, Kathy Fries, Dina Johnson, Lisa Lyons, Linda Miller, Maryann Perella, Valerie Taggart. will be held on November 2 at the Rockland House. For information, call Carolyn Bivins at 845-439-3333.

Click on the flyer for more information.

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NARROWSBURG,NY (October 7, 2013) – Cushetunk resident Joseph Skinner is believed to be the first European murdered in the Upper Delaware River Valley, and that 18th century crime has never been solved. In fact, there was enough blood spilled in the Valley in the years leading up to and during the Revolutionary War that there are bound to be a few spirits roaming about even to this day.

The unanswered question of who killed Joseph Skinner and other colonial era ghost stories will be the focal point of an evening of family oriented fun at the Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History in Narrowsburg on Saturday, October 12 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Haunted History Lantern Tours will feature guided tours of the Fort by lantern light, with various period attired interpreters relating ghost stories with a local flavor.

There will also be musical entertainment provided by special guests The King’s Highlanders, an 18th century Scottish pipe and drum band.

Admission is $5 per person, and there will also be cider and donuts available for purchase with all proceeds going to benefit the Delaware Company, a non-profit group dedicated to supporting and promoting the history and historic landmarks of the Upper Delaware.

Those attending are asked to bring their own flashlights.

For additional information, call Debra Conway at 845- 252-6660.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY AND SURROUNDING AREAS (October 7, 2013) – Special Weather Statement issued October 07 by NWS Binghamton
…Strong Cold Front Will Cross The Area Through Mid Afternoon… An Intense Cold Front Associated With Brief Heavy Rainfall And Strong Gusty Winds Will Cross The Area From Mid Morning Through Mid Afternoon. Rainfall Of Around One Inch Will Fall In Less Then Two Hours Which Will Cause Poor Drainage Flooding Especially In Urbanized Areas. Also The Roadways Are Currently Covered With Leaves Which Could Block Culverts And Cause Minor Flood Problems. The Front Will Be Associated With Gusty Winds To 40 Mph. This Could Bring Down Tree Limbs And Power Lines Resulting In Scattered Power Outages. There Is Also The Potential For The Development Of Some Stronger Thunderstorms With The Primary Threat More Widespread Damaging Winds Or Even An Isolated Tornado. The Front Is Expected To Reach… Penn Yan To Corning Area Between 10 And 11 AM EDT… Auburn To Ithaca To Elmira To Towanda Area Between 11 AM And Noon EDT… Syracuse To Cortland To Binghamton Area Around Noon EDT… Utica To Norwich To Scranton Area Between Noon And 1 PM EDT… Cooperstown To Monticello Area Between 1 PM And 2 PM EDT…
~~~~~~~~~~~

TORNADO WATCH UNTIL 5 P.M ON OCTOBER 7

Issued By:  NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Albany, Bronx, Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Kings, Madison, Montgomery, New York, Oneida, Onondaga, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Westchester, Yates Counties

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

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 4, 2013) – The Sullivan County Historical Society has announced its History Maker and History Preserver Awards for 2013, which will be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner, Saturday, October 26 at the Rockland House, Roscoe, NY. Social Hour 3:00 p.m. and dinner 4:00 p.m.

History Maker: The late Gladys Olmstead, RN (Oct. 19, 1924–August 10, 1997), a pioneer in public health nursing began her career as Sullivan County’s first public health nurse in 1951, in an “office” with a dirt floor in the basement of the courthouse and retired 34 years later as the Director of the Sullivan County Public Health Nursing Service.

She saw great drama in public health nursing, cutting down the rate of premature infant births, helping someone with polio move a muscle.

Gladys brought the county’s public health into the mainstream, initiating programs for pre-natal care, better nutrition for babies (WIC), well baby, orthopedic and TB clinics and whatever else was needed to keep the health in Sullivan County.

She was the right woman at the right time to build an amazing foundation for Sullivan County Public Health Nursing.

History Preserver: John B. (Jack) Niflot, (February 10, 1935–June 22, 2013) Town of Frement Board Member and Historian, whose dedication and advocacy for understanding and preserving the history and heritage of the Upper Delaware Valley is best exemplified by his co-founding of the Basket Historical Society in 1980, establishing its museum in Long Eddy and publishing/editing its newsletter, the ECHO, continuously since then.

Jack, a Charter Member and past president of the Upper Delaware Heritage Alliance was recognized for his "extraordinary contributions related to local heritage" and also served as an officer and board member of the Upper Delaware Council for nearly two decades.

Jack’s photographs, research records, postcard collections, poetry and other writings have inspired so many to appreciate and enjoy the Upper Delaware and help secure its future by fostering an appreciation of its past.

Dinner is $30. For more information and reservations please contact the Sullivan County Historical Society at 434-8044. Box 247, Hurleyville, NY 12747. sullivancountyhistory.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (September 20, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently signed legislation to improve safety for boaters in New York’s waterways by requiring safety classes for all boat operators.

“New York State has some of the best recreational and thriving commercial waterways in the country, and it is our responsibility to ensure they remain safe for all boat operators and passengers,” Governor Cuomo said. “This legislation will make sure that those who operate any kind of boat have the necessary training and experience, and they are aware of the risks and proper protocol for handling their vessels. I thank Senator Carlucci and Assemblywoman Galef for putting together this important new law to protect all those traveling on our waterways.”

The new law (A.3471-A/S.1639-A) requires all boat operators to obtain a boating safety certificate by completing an eight hour safe boating course. The requirement will be put into effect over a period of years, beginning next year with all 18-year-old boaters. Certificates can be obtained and the safety course completed with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historical Preservation, U.S. Power Squadrons, or the U.S. Coast Guard.

Previous law only required the operator of a personal watercraft to obtain a boating safety certificate or be accompanied on the vessel by a person over 18 years of age who is the holder of a safety certificate. The new law extends the requirement to all motorized water vessels.

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