The Catskill Chronicle

MONTICELLO, NY (September 29, 2013) – The Sullivan County Office for the Aging has scheduled a Public Hearing on Wednesday, October 16 at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center, 2 Jefferson Street, Monticello, NY to gain input from older residents, baby boomers, and other interested parties on programs and services provided by the agency.

The Public Hearing begins at 9:00 a.m. with registration and a free continental breakfast.

The Office for the Aging provides such programs as home delivered meals and congregate meals, in-home services, assistance to informal caregivers, information and assistance, Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP), Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Sullivan NYCONNECTS, shopping bus and medical transportation.

Information gathered at the public hearing will be used in the development of the Agency’s Annual Plan for services which must be submitted to the New York State Office for the Aging by December 2, 2013.

Following the Public Hearing, TRIAD (a collaborative partnership of senior representatives, law enforcement, and county senior advocates) will be hosting the fourth annual Senior Safety Day – “Seniors Growing Stronger Safely.”

The membership continues to focus on senior concerns, and strives to reduce the victimization of the elderly as well as improve the quality of life for our seniors. It begins at 10:00 a.m. with host speakers presenting:

Preparing for and staying safe during inclement weather  (Brenda Patton/NYSEG)

Dementia and home safety (Donna Davies/Alzheimer’s Association)

Tips to improve senior strength and flexibility (Pedro Tweed/Monticello Gymnastics Club)

Regional resources to help community members age safely in their place of choice (Judy Balaban/Hudson Valley Senior Source)

Safety advice by officers from the Liberty and Fallsburg Police Departments (Chief S. Kinne and Detective B. Pavese)

There will be a buffet lunch followed by a raffle of door prizes (must be present to win). The event is free, but donations are appreciated. To register for this event, please contact the Office for the Aging at 845-807-0241.

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LIBERTY, NY (September 28, 2013) – Research has shown that the best strategy to deal with invasive species is to identify and eradicate them before they become established.

An Invasive Species Identification Training will be offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This Catskill Regional Invasive Species Program (CRISP) course will be held at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

This training is designed for people who are interested in participating in an early detection and reporting process of invasive species that will help officials target eradication and control efforts throughout the region. The public in our region is encouraged to join in this important undertaking; the more eyes looking for these invaders, the more quickly and effectively they can be dealt with.

There will be a short update about Emerald Ash Borer (photo above) and Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (photo right), two invasive insect species which are already causing harm to New York forests including the Catskill Mountains.

Space is limited for this free program, so pre-registration is required by Monday, October 7.

Registration and more information can be obtained by calling the CCE office at 845-292-6180 or emailing smd243@cornell.edu.

This training is made possible through a partnership between CCE and CRISP.

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MONTICELLO & SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 26, 2013) – On Wednesday, October 9 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless is partnering with "A Friend in Need" to bring you "Gear Up For Winter."

Slated to take place at the Federation’s 9 Monticello Street location in Monticello, this event will feature an opportunity for people to choose warm winter clothing at no cost for their families.

Attendees will also be treated to a special breakfast, prize raffles and valuable information from various local agencies throughout the event.

Gear Up for Winter is a targeted campaign focused on providing homeless and low-income children and their families with the warm clothes, coats, boots and other supplies necessary for them to survive and thrive this season.

Winter in the Catskills can be harsh, and children who lack basic essentials are particularly vulnerable. In 2011-2012, The Federation received an overwhelming number of requests for winter coats, hats, gloves and boots.

For boots alone, there were many requests that went unfilled.

You can support the “Gear Up for Winter” event, by donating new or gently used cold-weather clothing – coats, boots, gloves, hats, and scarves – so all of the children and their families in Sullivan County stay safe and warm this winter.

Items can be dropped off at the Federation for the Homeless on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The Federation for the Homeless provides education, goods and services to those who are without resources.

"A Friend In Need" is a Facebook group of community-minded individuals from across Sullivan County who try to help fill the gaps for those friends and neighbors in need.

For more information, please call Kathy Kreiter at (845) 794-2604. ###

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LIBERTY, NY (September 25, 2013) – On September 19 and 20, Thunder 102 held its Third Annual Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Radiothon, a  fundraising event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to help in the fight against childhood cancer.

The Country Cares Radiothon ran from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day and was sponsored by Middletown Medical, Animal hospital of Sullivan County, Rolling V, Formaggio Cheese Specialties, Yellow Cab, Bethel Woods Center For The Arts, USAlliance Federal Credit Union, Crystal Run Healthcare and Edible Arrangements of Middletown.

St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas and opened in 1962. Its mission: to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.

In 1989, Randy Owen, a member of the country group Alabama, met with founder Danny Thomas who asked him to play a part and Country Cares was born.

Throughout the two day Radiothon, there were many from the country music industry calling in to show support – everyone from up-and-coming artist Amber Hayes to charting artists such as John Rich of Big & Rich, past winner of Celebrity Apprentice. Forty-three celebrities in all called in, but the most special of these calls took place Thursday when Paul Ciliberto picked up the line to be greeted by Country Cares founder Randy Owen.

Besides the actual days of the Radiothon, over 50 businesses throughout Thunder Country sold Bethel Woods Center For The Arts Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Boot Cards for a minimum $1 donation.

Other business got creative in their fundraising, Crystal Run Healthcare employees raised over $2,000 during its Dress Down Day and Monticello Casino & Raceway donated $1 for each new “like” it received on its Facebook page raising $1,000.

In all, ThunderHeads raised over $38,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during two emotionally charged, but inspiring days.

Paul Ciliberto, New York Market Manager, General Manager and host of Ciliberto & Friends, was in tears as Danny Thomas’ voice closed out the final moments of the Radiothon. “With the economical rollercoaster that our community has been on for the last two years … our ThunderHeads still found the time to reach out to help others while in need themselves. I say it time and time again, but our ThunderHeads never cease to amaze me!” said Ciliberto.

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NEW YORK STATE (September 24, 2013) – The nonprofit Parks & Trails New York is launching the next round of its Growing the Grassroots Capacity Building Grants for park and trail groups in New York State. The grants, of up to $3,000, will strengthen not-for-profit organizations that are working to build and protect parks and trails in communities across the state.

Through the grant program, Parks & Trails New York aims to help not-for-profits better fulfill their missions; improve their reach, effectiveness, and impact; leverage more resources; and increase community support for and involvement in park and trail planning, development, and stewardship. Funds can be used to assist with activities associated with organizational start-up and development, training, communications, and volunteer recruitment and management. The deadline for submitting applications is November 12.

The program is unique in that it supports activities not normally covered by existing grants. While a number of grants are available to not-for-profits, they usually only fund capital projects and specific programs; they don’t help organizations develop and strengthen the skills, processes, and resources that they need to survive and thrive. 

“Hundreds of not-for-profit organizations are working to build, protect, and promote our state’s parks and trails –helping to provide not only places to engage in healthy physical activity and close to home recreation but also attracting additional tourist dollars to strengthen local economies. It’s amazing how much these groups accomplish with minimal resources and limited or non-existent staff,” said Robin Dropkin, Parks & Trails New York Executive Director. “With this grant program, we have been able to propel groups to new levels and expand what they can accomplish so that they become even stronger park and trail stewards and advocates.”

“Since we initiated the awards program in 2009, we have helped 46 organizations in 26 counties expand their fundraising and membership campaigns, enhance their public programming, redesign or create new websites, and develop marketing materials. These efforts have really paid off for these groups by growing the number of members and volunteers that support them in their work,” added Dropkin.

Parks & Trails New York is the leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving the health and quality of life of all New Yorkers by working with community organizations and municipalities to envision, create, promote, and protect a growing network of parks, greenways and trails throughout the state for all to use and enjoy.

More information and an application can be found on the Parks & Trails New York website www.ptny.org, or by emailing grants@ptny.org or calling 518-434-1583.

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NEW YORK STATE (September 23, 2013) – Yesterday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo continued the state’s efforts to reduce distracted driving by unveiling special "Texting Zones" along the New York State Thruway and State Highways that will give motorists a pull-off area to park and use their mobile devices. Existing Park-n-Ride facilities, rest stops, and parking areas along the Thruway and Highways will dual-function as Texting Zones, and signage will be placed along the highway to inform drivers where the Zones are located. A total of 298 signs will be located along major highways across the state, notifying motorists to 91 Texting Zone locations.

In addition, the Governor announced a 365% increase in tickets issued in summer 2013 compared to summer 2012 for distracted driving, a result of an extensive enforcement crackdown by the State Police. This summer, State Police issued 21,580 tickets, surpassing last summer’s total of 5,208 tickets. 

“New York State is continuing to use every tool at its disposal to combat texting-while-driving,” Governor Cuomo said. “In addition to tougher penalties, new detection methods for State Police and ongoing public outreach efforts, we are now launching special Texting Zones to allow motorists to pull over and use their phones. These Zones will be identified with signs along the Thruway and State Highways, reminding drivers that there is a nearby opportunity for them to legally and safely use their phone. With this new effort, we are sending a clear message to drivers that there is no excuse to take your hands off the wheel and eyes off the road because your text can wait until the next Texting Zone.”

The locations of some of Texting Zones in and around Sullivan County are:

Results of Summer Crackdown on Distracted Driving

The summer crackdown, which started on the July 4th holiday weekend and lasted through the Labor Day weekend, consisted of increased enforcement and patrols, particularly through undercover operations using unmarked State Police SUVs to catch distracted drivers. 

A breakdown of the numbers is as follows:
July 4 – September 2

The campaign was in addition to two major efforts initiated by the Governor earlier this year to crack down on distracted driving – increasing the penalty for distracted driving from three to five points on a driver’s license and signing his legislation to increase license suspension and revocation periods for distracted driving on young and new drivers.

State Police have been using Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of the operation in order to more easily identify motorists who are texting while driving. CITE vehicles are SUVs that have platforms higher than an average vehicle, allowing officers greater ability to see into other vehicles and detect individuals in the process of sending text messages. The State Police fleet of CITE vehicles are unmarked and come in a variety of colors to ensure that they blend in with traffic on the road. They are also equipped with hidden high intensity emergency lights.

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LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (September 22, 2013) – Every two years, the SUNY Sullivan Foundation honors men whose efforts and influence have had positive impacts on Sullivan County and the region. Past honorees have included businessmen, social activists, educators, politicians, and others of great import to our community at large.

As SUNY Sullivan celebrates its 50^th Anniversary this year, the 2013 list of honorees includes men who have been integral in the establishment and continuing growth of the college as an important and influential Sullivan County institution. Among these men are educators, administrators, alumni, and board members. Their service and dedication to the college will be honored at a reception to be held in October.

The 2013 Men Who Make A Difference honorees.

DR. Richard K. Greenfield – Being honored for Presidential Leadership, Dr. Greenfield was the first President of SUNY Sullivan.

Harold L. Gold – Being honored for his humanitarianism, Gold is a founding college member and a Trustee Emeritus. He is a current SUNY Sullivan Foundation board member.

Harold Diamond (photo above) – Being honored for his educational service, Diamond is a Trustee Emeritus, and a former member of the SUNY Sullivan Foundation.

Joel Lerner – Being honored for teaching and learning, Lerner is an original member of the college faculty.

Steven L. Kaufman – Being honored as a distinguished alumnus, Kaufman is a 1970 alum. He is the SUNY Sullivan Foundation Treasurer and current Chair of the Dormitory Corporation.

Donald Taylor – Being honored for his efforts in youth empowerment, Taylor is a 1993 alumnus and former member of the Sullivan Generals Men’s Basketball Team.

Thomas Ambrosino – Being honored for his 42 years of service to the college as a Professor of Computer Graphics/Graphic Design, Ambrosino is Professor Emeritus and a 1968 alumnus.

The SUNY Sullivan Men Who Make A Difference Cocktail Reception will be held at Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant in Rock Hill, NY on Thursday, October 24, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The cost is $50.00 per person, and those planning to attend must RSVP by October 17. Reservations can be made by calling Hillary Egeland at 845-434-5750, ext. 4377, or via email to hegeland@sunysullivan.edu.

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BRIDGEVILLE, NY (September 21, 2013) – The Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development has announced that Patrick Dollard, president and CEO of The Center for Discovery, has been named the 2013 recipient of the Walter A. Rhulen Award. James Bates, managing member of Ecological Analysis, has been named this year’s Distinguished Service Award winner.

Both awards will be presented at the Partnership’s 19th Annual Meeting to be held on October 10 at The Sullivan in Rock Hill.

“Thanks to Patrick Dollard’s vision, The Center for Discovery is on a path to being a world leader in its field,” said Fred Stabbert III, Partnership Board Chairman. “James Bates (photo left) has been an active participant in the Partnership, and has helped drive membership growth in support of our mission. Both of these gentlemen are assets to not only the Partnership but also to the Sullivan County community as a whole.”

The Rhulen Award, which is presented annually, recognizes an individual for “business excellence, community commitment and service to humanity.” The award recipient is selected through nominations made by the Sullivan County Partnership’s Board of Directors.

As a nationally recognized thought leader, Dollard (photo right) is one of the field’s most innovative visionaries in the development of new models of cost-effective high quality care for special populations. Under his more than three decades of leadership, The Center for Discovery has grown from a facility with 30 employees to more than 1,500 full time staff, providing research, intervention, and residential services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and medical complexities, including autism spectrum disorders.

Dollard also pioneered the development of environmentally advanced health care and educational facilities that utilize energy efficient technologies and sustainable construction materials. The Center is the first healthcare facility in the country to be registered with the U.S. Green Building Council (U.S.G.B.C.) and was a recipient of the prestigious LEED certification.

The Center for Discovery contributes a total of more than $184 million in economic impact for New York State, $134 million in Sullivan County. With a proposed $20 million project to build a High-Risk Assessment Clinic in Harris that will add some 200 new jobs in Phase One and an additional 200 in Phase Two, The Center will become an even larger economic engine in the years ahead.

The Distinguished Service Award is given to the Sullivan Partnership member who has shown the greatest service to the Partnership. Recipients are chosen by the Partnership’s staff members.

This year’s recipient, James Bates, is responsible for day-to-day operations of Ecological Analysis, LLC, a multi-disciplinary Middletown firm specializing in planning and ecological resources. Bates has been working in the environmental and fisheries field since graduating from Mansfield University in 1986.

Bates and his staff work with clients both large and small to shepherd their projects through the planning board SEQRA process and permit approvals with different agencies. He and his team also do wetland delineations and then collaborate with the other agencies to have the wetland lines verified and signed off on. In any permits or mitigation is required, both Bates and his staff work to complete the necessary tasks.

“The Center for Discovery has had an incredible economic impact on Sullivan County for decades and that is directly related to Patrick Dollard’s vision, commitment, and tenacity,” Marc Baez, president and CEO of the Partnership, said. “James Bates is passionate about the issues that affect Sullivan County and doesn’t hesitate to offer his input and expertise to advance a positive discussion.”

This year’s Annual Meeting will also feature a presentation of the Annual Report and the official installation of the recently elected/re-elected members of the Board of Directors (2013-2016 TERM), including: Michael Dollard, MDM Fitness Factory, Inc.; Glenn Gidaly, Barton & Loguidice; Daniel Grady, Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, Inc.; Lela Nussbaum, First Niagara Bank; Gerald Skoda, Skoda Enterprises; Alan Zuckerman, Verticon LTD.

The Sullivan County Partnership is an organization made up of both private and public entities that work together to serve the needs of new and expanding businesses throughout the county. Founded in 1994, The Partnership offers a number of effective programs and services that help companies get started, relocate and grow. To RSVP to the Annual Meeting or for sponsorship information, please contact the Partnership at 845-794-1110.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 20, 2013) – The Catskill Art Society will present a talk and slideshow “Working At Play: The Evolution of Entertainment at the Sullivan County Resorts” from Sullivan County Historian John Conway at the CAS Arts Center at 48 Main Street, Livingston Manor, NY on Saturday, September 28 at 3:00 p.m.

This event is free and open to the public, and small donations will be accepted at the door.

Sullivan County’s internationally renowned resort industry did not spring to life fully armed. It evolved over more than a century from the farmhouses and small hotels that depended upon the railroad to bring them guests in the late 19th and early 20th century to the grand, all-inclusive fortress hotels of the 1950s and ’60s. The entertainment the hotels offered also evolved, and Sullivan County Historian John Conway takes a rare critical look at both evolutions and how they impacted the economics and the culture of the region.

A Q&A will follow the presentation, and the CAS galleries will be open for guests to view "Ghosts of the Catskills," the current exhibit of contemporary artwork exploring the faded hotel culture in our region. Curated by Elizabeth Ennis and Andrea Brown, “Ghosts of the Catskills” is on display at the CAS Arts Center through October 6.

John Conway has been the Sullivan County Historian since 1993. He was born and raised in Monticello, NY, educated at Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia, and has been in the vanguard of the movement to chronicle and preserve local history for more than 25 years. He is an adjunct professor at SUNY Sullivan, teaching a class on local history. He has written six books, and expects a seventh to be completed for release in 2012. He has written for the Encyclopedia of New York State. He is regularly asked to provide historical context for Sullivan County news events by the New York Times, Associated Press, and Fox News, among others. He has appeared on the Fox television series Million Dollar Mysteries, talking about gangster Dutch Schultz and his lost Catskills’ treasure, and on the BBC documentary, Stand Up America, discussing the role of the Borscht Belt on American comedy.

For additional information, call the Catskill Art Society at 845-436-4227.

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MONTICELLO, NY (September 19, 2013) – The Sullivan County Veterans Service Agency will hold an annual POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony in the lobby of the Sullivan County Government, 100 North Street, Monticello, NY on Friday, September 27 at 1:00 p.m.

The public is invited to participate in the ceremony remembering those who were prisoners of war and those who are missing in action, as well as their families.

For additional information on this event, please contact the Veterans Service Agency 845-807-0233.

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Photos by Carol Montana

GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (September 18, 2013) – The 28^th Annual Giant Pumpkin Party and Children’s Parade will be held on Saturday, October 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Fairgrounds in Grahamsville, NY.

A benefit for the Daniel Pierce Library, this old-time country fair and autumn festival has always been focused on children. It’s a family day out in the country with something for everyone – from the costume parade to pony rides, giant pumpkin growing contest, haunted house, petting zoo, live country music, hay rides, hay maze, a “better” book sale, harvest baking contest, delicious food and other amusements.

The children’s costume parade (open to children of all ages) will begin the day’s activities. Marchers should assemble on the library lawn at 8:30 a.m. (Please park first at the Grahamsville Fairgrounds and take the free shuttle bus.) Entertainment on the library front lawn will be provided by Jack Luster and Dr. Professor Balloon-a-Kiss. At 9:00 a.m., parade participants will   march the ¼ mile route to the Fairgrounds where costume contest winners will be announced. All entrants will receive a prize. This year’s theme is: Dig Into Reading!

Following the parade there will be daylong musical entertainment, children’s games (every child is a winner), pony rides, craft activities, hayrides, petting zoo, hay maze, handmade crafts, bake sale, and raffle featuring more than forty prizes, plus the Giant Pumpkin Growing Contest (adult and children’s categories), Pumpkin Decorating Contest, Country Bake Contest, Obstacle Course, Hay Bale Throw Contest, and Theme Float Contest. Prizes and/or trophies will be awarded for each. Entry forms and contest rules are available in advance by contacting the Daniel Piece Library or visiting the library website.

Refreshments will be available all day, featuring: homemade donuts, chocolates, funnel cakes, hamburgers, hot dogs, chili, wraps, nachos, hot apple cider and soft drinks.

The event is held rain or shine, and admission and parking are free. Funds raised will be used for the Children’s Program Room, and to purchase automation equipment.

The Fairgrounds are easily accessible from the New York State Thruway Kingston Exit to Route 209 South and Right onto Route 55, or from Route 17 to Liberty Exit 100A, right onto Route 55 for 14 miles.

For entry forms, contest rules, a schedule of the day’s events, or additional information, please call the Daniel Pierce Library at 845-985-7233 or visit the Giant Pumpkin Party page on the library website www.danielpiercelibrary.org.

Groups wishing to enter a float in the parade should contact the Daniel Pierce Library for additional information.

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LIBERTY, NY (September 17, 2013) – It’s a bird, it’s a plane … it’s hundreds of exotic birds.

The Catskill Exotic Bird Club will be holding its 22nd annual Pet Bird Show on Sunday, October 13, at the Liberty Firehouse in Liberty NY.

There will be bird judging, vendors selling everything from bird toys to cages to food … and birds. All owners of pet birds are encouraged to enter their own birds; the entry fee is only $1 a bird. Every type of exotic bird from parrots to finches to softbills will be judged in its own division. Every bird is checked by a veterinarian before being admitted to the show.

In addition, the show will include a separate youth division. Any child 12 or under may enter his or her pet bird in a 4-H style judging. Every entry will receive a certificate of participation and the appropriate ribbon. After the youth judging, the birds will be entered into the overall competition.

There will be a large raffle area with bird toys, accessories and food, all donated by local and regional pet stores as well as from major national manufacturers themselves. The show will include an interactive education area with super tame birds on display along with magazines, newsletters and handouts. Food and beverages are available for purchase. And the Liberty firehouse offers ample free parking.

The club, which celebrated its 26th anniversary last year, is devoted to the education of the general public about the care and responsibilities pet bird ownership as well as the the strict enforcement of anti-importation laws. The club, which recently received its official 501(c)(3) charitable organization status, also presents educational programs at schools, hospitals and civic groups. The club also has an active adoption program, placing unwanted birds with appropriate loving homes.

The show hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Bird registration begins at 8am. Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for children under twelve. All children entering birds will be admitted to the show for free. The town of Liberty Firehouse is at 256 Sprague Avenue in the village of Liberty. For additional information please contact Matt Frumess, show chairman, at 845-747-9370 or at mfrumess@hvc.rr.com. Or check out the club’s website at www.bIrdclub.com.

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Photos by Carol Montana

LIBERTY, NY (September 13, 2013) – Thunder 102 has announced its 3rd Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Radiothon on September 19 and 20. The Radiothon is a fundraising event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to help in the fight against childhood cancer.

The Thunder 102 Country Cares For St. Jude Kids Radiothon will run from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day and is sponsored by Middletown Medical, Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, Rolling V, Formaggio Cheese Specialties, Yellow Cab and Bethel Woods Center For The Arts.

St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas and opened in 1962. Its mission to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.

In 1989, Randy Owen, member of the country group Alabama, met with founder Danny Thomas who asked him to play a part in curing childhood cancer and Country Cares was born.

The first Country Cares event was designed as a nationally syndicated  Radiothon and it raised $1 million for St. Jude. However, these pioneers knew the country music industry and its fans were eager to do more and Country Cares has expanded to include over 200 radio stations across the United States.

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

Besides the actual days of the Radiothon, almost 50 businesses throughout Thunder Country are currently selling Bethel Woods Country Cares For St. Jude’s Kids Boot Cards for a minimum $1 donation, with more business being added each day! To donate, stop by one of the participating businesses found by clicking this link: www.thunder102.com/#!st-jude-radiothon/cfns.

Another St. Jude fundraising effort, Hoops For Hope, will be held at SUNY Sullivan in Loch Sheldrake on Monday, September 16. For a $5 donation, participants can shoot ten free throws and win prizes. During the Hoops for Hope, Paul Ciliberto of Thunder 102 and Barry Lewis of the Times Herald Record, a weekly guest on Ciliberto & Friends will go head-to-head in a competitive game of “Horse” with Fred Kahn and Larry Chance of The Earls. Everyone is invited to participate. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6:00 p.m.

You can listen on September 19 and 20 on your radio, online at www.thunder102.com or by downloading the RadioBOLD app on your iPhone, iPad, iPod or Android. Donate online at Thunder 102.com or by calling 800-720-5944 the days of the Radiothon.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 13, 2013) – In 1983, tired of travelling as far as New York City for support, a small group of family members joined voices in Sullivan County and formed a local grass-roots organization known at the time as AMI (Alliance for the Mentally Ill).  Taking over the incorporation of a then-defunct Mental Health Association, the organization filed a d/b/a as Friends and Advocates for Mental Health (FAMH).  From day one, the mission was to expand services and enrich the lives of individuals recovering from mental illness and their families. Thirty years later, countless  family members have received support, education and referrals and hundreds of individuals recovering from mental illness have received the benefit of social and recreational programs provided by FAMH, the Sullivan County affiliate of NAMI.

On Thursday, October 3, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., FAMH will host a 30th Anniversary Cocktail Party at Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant in Rock Hill. The  organization will be honoring Assemblywoman, Aileen Gunther with the Morris Gerber Memorial Advocacy Award. Assemblywoman Gunther (photo above right) has been a staunch mental health advocate for many years and was recently named Assembly Chair of the Mental Health Committee.

Also being honored will be FAMH Executive Director, M. Lori Schneider (photo left), MS on her 25th Anniversary with the agency.

Tickets are $30 for the cocktail party and reservations are being accepted thru September 19th. An anniversary Journal is also being compiled.  For additional information, please phone 845-794-1029.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 13, 2013) – In celebration of its 100 years in Sullivan County, Cornell Cooperative Extension has announced the  theme for its 4th Annual Calendar Photo Contest is “Sullivan County Over the Past 100 Years.”

The public is asked to look through their old photos for special shots of people and places in Sullivan County over the last century.

Some examples of photos that will stand out in this contest are captured memories of 4-H youth club trips, county fairs, agricultural activities, CCE fundraisers, and Home Bureau meetings. Entries do not have to involve CCE, but CCE-oriented photos will be favored. Photos not chosen may be used for other purposes.

Deadline for photos is Monday, September 30, 2013. Entries should be sent electronically as an attached bmp file to smd243@cornell.edu.

Photos and memorabilia can also be delivered to the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty. Contestant name, address, and contact information should be enclosed with anything that must be returned.

Questions can be directed to Susan Dollard at 845-292-6180.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 12, 2013) – The Sullivan County Child Passenger Seat program will conduct a child safety seat check-up event on Friday, September 20 at the Loch Sheldrake Fire House.

Certified child passenger safety technicians will be on hand from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. by appointment, to check car seats for proper installation and advise parents and caregivers on how to choose the right car seats and install them properly in their vehicles.

The event, which is free to the public, is part of Sullivan County Public Health Services participation in a statewide effort during National Child Passenger Safety Week (September 15-21) and National Seat Check week to improve the safety of New York’s children.

Based on U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash data in 2011, on average, nearly 2 children under 13 were killed and 338 were injured every day while riding in cars, SUVs, pickups and vans. In 2011, over one- third of children killed in car crashes were not in car seats or wearing seat belts. In New York State, nearly 8,500 children from birth to 15 years of age are treated yearly in hospitals for injuries from a motor vehicle crash.

According to NHTSA, three out of every four car seats are not used correctly. Failure to read and carefully follow the installation instructions included with the car seat as well as those in the vehicle owner’s manual can lead to incorrect installation, exposing a child passenger to grave risk of serious injury or death in a crash.

During National Child Passenger Safety Week, car seat check-up events will be conducted in localities throughout New York State as part of a statewide initiative to increase public awareness about how often car seats are misused, the importance of using the devices properly and to provide parents and caregivers the opportunity to get their car seat checked by child passenger safety professionals so they will “know for sure” their children are safe while riding in the car.

“Know for Sure Your Child is in the Right Seat” is a national campaign launched by NHTSA and the Ad Council to make sure all parents and caregivers are properly securing their children (birth-12 years) in the right car restraint (rear-facing, forward-facing, booster seats and seat belts) for their age and size and to ensure they are properly used and installed by parents and caregivers. The national campaign is being conducted and promoted by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State Child Passenger Safety Advisory Board with support from New York State Department of Health Bureau of Occupational Health and Injury Prevention, NYS Thruway Authority and New York State Safe Kids Coalition.

Parents and caregivers can also attend a car seat inspection station or check-up events conducted held throughout the year. For a county listing, go to www.safeny.ny.gov/events.htm for questions about child passenger safety, contact Sullivan County Public Health Services at 845-292-5910 ext 2271.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 12, 2013) – Issued By: NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions: Albany, Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Washington Counties

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch Is In Effect Until 800 p.m.

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

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 11, 2013) – The Sullivan County SPCA is holding a t-shirt design contest for Sullivan County students.

Here are the rules:

1. All entrants must be enrolled in a school located in Sullivan County NY.

2. Design should be in black and white and for the front only of a t-shirt

3. Original artwork should be no smaller than 8 1/2” x 11” and can be mailed or can be dropped off at the shelter at 104 Rock Hill Drive, Rock Hill, NY.

Mail should be directed to: Sullivan County SPCA, PO Box 995, Rock Hill NY 12775.

4. Digital artwork can be submitted in a .jpeg or .pdf format, emailed as an attachment to dana@danahawk.com.

5. All entries must be accompanied by the entrant’s name, age/grade, school and teacher’s name.

6. All artwork should be original.

7. All entries need to be received by 10/1/13, winner will be notified by 10/10/13.

Prizes:

$100 cash!

$50 Gift Certificate to The Art Shoppe by the Kristt Co.

3 free t-shirts with your winning design

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SULLIVAN COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS, NY (September 11, 2013) – Issued By:  NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Allegany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Oswego, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates Counties

Severe Thunderstorm Watch 520 Is In Effect Until 900 PM EDT For The Following New York Counties: Allegany, Broome,              Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland,           Delaware, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Oneida, Onondaga,   Ontario, Oswego, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates.

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

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NEW YORK STATE (September 11, 2013) – We remember the stunned silence, the muffled crying, the anguish, and the heartsick feeling in the pits of our stomachs and the aching in our hearts. We remember wondering how anyone could do such a thing.

But we also remember the heroes – the first responders, the police, fire rescuers, ambulance drivers, first aid providers, rescue animals and those who provided food, water, and comfort to victims and responders in New York City, Washington, DC and Shanksville,  Pennsylvania.

So, we grieve for the lost, and we hope for the survivors. And we pray that those who lost relatives or friends will find comfort.  

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 9, 2013) – US Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have announced that $63,810 in federal funding is being awarded to the Sullivan County International Airport to upgrade airport drainage in the terminal area and Runway 33 safety area.

The funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program.
“This FAA investment will help make essential infrastructure upgrades at the Sullivan County Airport,” said Senator Schumer.

“By improving drainage and preventing erosion around the terminal and on the runway, Sullivan County Airport will keep flights running on time, improve service for residents, travelers and businesses, and clear the way for economic development in the region.”

“This is an important investment for the Sullivan County International Airport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Updating the airport’s drainage system can help provide better, safer service for travelers and businesses, and help strengthen the local economy.”

The federal funding for the Sullivan County International Airport will specifically be used to upgrade airport drainage in the terminal area and Runway 33 safety area to help ensure the airport operates at its highest efficiency. 

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 8, 2013) – The Fly Fishing Hall of Fame Committee has released the names of four individuals to be inducted into the Fly Fishing Hall of Fame. An induction ceremony will take place at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum in Livingston Manor, NY on Saturday, October 12, at 3:00 p.m.

This diverse group of individuals have been selected for their significant impact on the world of fly fishing. The 2013 Fly Fishing Hall of Fame Class is:

A.J. Campbell (photo left) – A collectible fly fishing equipment authority, historian, fishing historian, a past editor of several fly fishing magazines and author.

Rusty Gates (photo right) – has made direct contributions to the nation’s  fisheries. His model of Michigan’s AuSable River has been a starting place and example for the management of river restoration.

Paul Schmookler (photo right) – The source of the Renaissance of the art and tying of the classic salmon fly that continues today. His books and magazines on fly tying, history and fly tying materials are the benchmark reference guides for generations to come.

Joe Humphreys (photo left) – recognized internationally as a flytyer, fly fisherman, conservationist, and educator. In addition to teaching hundreds of students as an instructor at Penn State, outside the classroom some of his pupils have been former President Jimmy Carter, past VP Richard Cheney, basketball’s Bobby Knight among many others.
For additional information, call the CFFCM at 845-439-4810.

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NEW YORK STATE (September 7, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Friday that September is Preparedness Month across New York State, encouraging individuals, families, and businesses to take this opportunity to review their disaster plans and become better prepared for any emergency.
“New York has experienced some of the most devastating natural disasters in our state’s history in recent years, as well as the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil in our nation’s history,” Governor Cuomo said. “This September, I urge all New Yorkers to form emergency plans and make sure they are prepared in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. Doing so is an important way to protect your family and can make all the difference in an emergency.”

Preparedness Month is a national effort, now in its ninth year, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps. It is designed to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities.
In advance of this month’s observance, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and the Department of Health have been showcasing preparedness information at the New York State Fair. State agencies have also taken multiple steps to increase resiliency, preparedness and response capabilities.

Basic steps to follow in advance of any disaster include having an emergency plan, stocking up on emergency supplies, and remaining cognizant of potential hazards that could impact where you live or visit – including obtaining information through local news outlets during an emergency. New Yorkers should also subscribe to NY- ALERT, the State’s alert and notification system, and download its new mobile app, iAlertz. To subscribe, visit www.nyalert.gov or www.ialertz.com.

New York State has also developed a website to guide citizens to prepare for any type of incident atwww.nyprepare.gov. This website serves as a clearinghouse of safety and preparedness information from the State agency websites of the Office of Emergency Management, the Department of Health, the Office of Counter Terrorism, the State Police, the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the Department of Financial Services, and the Department of Agriculture and Markets, as well as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross.
Governor Cuomo’s Preparedness Month Proclamation can be viewed here:http://www.governor.ny.gov/assets/documents/preparednessmonthproclamation.pdf

For more information, please visit these websites:
New York State’s Aware Prepare Campaign: www.nyprepare.gov

Sign up for NY-ALERT: www.nyalert.gov

iAlertz: www.ialertz.com

Download the NYS Emergency Information Handbook:http://www.dhses.ny.gov/media/documents/2011_EI_Handbook.pdf

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 5, 2013) – Primary elections will be conducted by the Sullivan County Board of Elections on Tuesday, September 10, 2013. 

Polls will open at 12:00 Noon and close at 9:00 p.m.

Democratic primaries will be held in the Towns of Bethel, (for Supervisor, Council and Highway Superindentent, Mamakating (for Town Justice), Thompson (for Town Council) and Tusten (for Town Justice).

Republican Party primaries will be held in the Towns of Bethel (for Highway Superintendent), Fremont (for Town Council), Mamakating (for Supervisor and in MA 2 Town Committee as well), Thompson (for Supervisor) and Tusten (for Town Justice).

Conservative Party primaries will be held in the Towns of Liberty, Neversink and Thompson, all for Town Justice candidates.

Independence Party primaries will be held in the Towns of Liberty, Neversink, Thompson and Tusten, all for Town Justice candidates.

Only those voters registered to the parties holding a primary are eligible to vote. If you are going to be out of the County on Election Day please exercise your right to vote by Absentee Ballot.

If you have any questions please contact the Board of Elections at 845-807-0400, Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 4, 2013) – Members and supporters of the Livingston Manor Renaissance group gathered at the Catskill Art Society on Saturday, August 24 to celebrate the prestigious “Golden Feather Award” from Sullivan Renaissance.

From their website: “Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program principally funded by the Gerry Foundation. The program provides communities in Sullivan County with seed money for beautification projects.   A limited number of proposals are funded each year under a competitive process overseen by the Sullivan Renaissance program. Grant amounts and requirements vary depending upon program categories.”

Here are some photos from the celebration.

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To see more photos or to purchase prints from Livingston Manor Celebrates Its Golden Feather Award, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 3, 2013) – The Catskill Chronicle wishes all of our Jewish readers a most blessed and bountiful new year.

Shana Tova Umetukah – A good and sweet year.

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LIBERTY, NY (September 2, 2013) – Volunteers wishing to improve their communities and parks by caring for trees have an opportunity to receive a structured, two-day training and camaraderie among other like-minded adults. By popular demand, a unique, 10-hour Community Tree Steward course is offered for only $25 by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County on Tuesday, September 17, and Wednesday, September 18. Each class will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty. Thirty-two trained Community Tree Stewards have already successfully completed this program and are active in Sullivan County.

The Community Tree Steward program is a volunteer service-based program through CCE with experts in the field offering training in tree biology, identification, planting, and maintenance for young trees. The two-part course includes in-class and field training. The trained volunteers will be expected to donate 10 hours of stewardship back to the community on selected projects, where they will continue receiving hands-on and technical experience in tree management.

A special tree-care guide book and light refreshments will be included with the program. Participants should provide their own lunch. Space is limited so pre-registration with payment is required in advance. Refunds will not be issued. Reservations can be obtained by calling 845-292-6180.

Questions can be directed to Susan Dollard, Master Gardener Program Coordinator and Community Educator by email at smd243@cornell.edu.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY (September 2, 2013) – For The Following Locations: 

Broome Cayuga Chemung Chenango Cortland Delaware Franklin Fulton Hamilton Herkimer Jefferson Lewis Madison Montgomery Oneida Onondaga Ontario Oswego Otsego Schoharie Schuyler Seneca St. Lawrence Steuben Sullivan Tioga Tompkins Wayne Yates

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

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 30, 2013) – The staff of the Catskill Chronicle will be taking a few days off to spend the holiday weekend with family and friends.

We would like to wish our readers a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Please enjoy our beautiful Sullivan County Catskills. Visit a farmers market, hike a mountain, play some golf, enjoy some delicious food at a great restaurant, catch some entertainment. Whatever you do, be safe and be kind.

Here are some interesting Labor Day facts from the US Census Bureau:

The first observance of Labor Day was likely on Sept. 5, 1882, when some 10,000 workers assembled in New York City for a parade. That celebration inspired similar events across the country, and by 1894 more than half the states were observing a “workingmen’s holiday” on one day or another. Later that year, with Congress passing legislation and President Grover Cleveland signing the bill on June 29, the first Monday in September was designated “Labor Day.” This national holiday is a creation of the labor movement in the late 19th century — and pays tribute to the social and economic achievements of American workers.

http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb13-ff20.html

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New York is First State in Nation to Take ‘P-TECH’ Program Statewide with 16 New Programs

NEW YORK STATE (August 29, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced 16 winners of a statewide competition to form public-private partnerships that will prepare more than 6,000 New York high school students for high-skill jobs in technology, manufacturing and healthcare. Students will earn an associate degree at no cost to their families and will be first in line for jobs with participating companies when they graduate.

“We are making sure our students are more prepared for life after graduation by linking our the skills we teach in the classroom with the needs of 21^st century employers,” Governor Cuomo said. “This groundbreaking program will give students across the state the opportunity to earn a college degree without taking on significant debt from student loans while also starting on a pathway to a good-paying job when they graduate. These public-private partnerships are a model for success for our students, our employers and our regional economies.”

The NYS Pathways in Technology Early College High School (NYS P-TECH) partnerships will provide nearly 6,000 students with a high school diploma, college degree and pathway to a job. With today’s announcement, New York State is the first in the nation to implement a statewide “P-TECH” initiative that links education to regional economic development.

NYS P-TECH was announced as part of the Governor’s 2013-2014 Executive Budget and will receive additional funding and support through the State Education Department. The public-private initiative was launched in partnership with IBM, which helped create the P-TECH program and will provide tools, training and support to each NYS P-TECH school.

Winning partnerships were selected through a highly competitive process and represent leading industries in each of the state’s 10 Regional Economic Development Council areas.

The local area’s 16 NYS P-TECH partnerships are:

Hudson Valley

· Information Technology – Business: IBM
Higher Education: SUNY Orange
K-12: Newburgh Enlarged City School District

· Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) – Businesses: Hudson Valley Council of Industry

Higher Education: Ulster Community College, Dutchess    Community College, Orange Community College, Sullivan Community College and SUNY New Paltz
K-12: Regional consortium led by Ulster BOCES with fiscal lead Kingston City School District

Pending negotiation and approval of each applicant’s budget, the winners will spend the 2013-14 school year recruiting students, building partnerships and training teachers and principals, and will enroll their first class of students in September 2014.

The NYS P-TECH partnership builds on the nationally recognized success of IBM’s Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) in New York City.

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