The Catskill Chronicle

NEW YORK STATE (August 28, 2013) – “The 50^th anniversary of the March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, is a moment to reflect as a state and as a nation on the progress that we have made towards achieving equality and opportunity for all. New York has always been a beacon of equal rights as the birthplace of so many progressive organizations and social movements such as the NAACP, the women’s rights movement, the environmental movement, the labor movement, and the gay rights movement. As Governor, I will continue to prioritize creating social and economic equality for all residents in our state to maintain New York’s place as the progressive capital of the country. And while today is a day to celebrate our progress, it is also an opportunity to reflect upon the work that still needs to be done to truly realize Dr. King’s dream and to make our state and country a fairer and more just place for all.”

To see the video of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream” speech click on this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smEqnnklfYs.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (August 26, 2013) – It’s almost September and that means it’s time for the Livingston Manor Labor Day Parade (formerly of DeBruce). This year’s event will be held on Sunday, September 1, with the parade on Main Street, and entertainment and more at Renaissance Park, located at the intersection of Main and Pearl Streets (at the traffic light) in Livingston Manor.

The festivities begin at 11:00 a.m. and the old-fashioned country-style parade starts at 12:00 noon.

“Reading, Rolling and Rhythm” is the parade theme and Grand Marshal Lee Siegel will lead the way. The parade will feature floats, Livingston Manor’s own MountainTones Marching Band, and dozens of antique cars from the Any Model- Any Make and Catskill Regional Antique Auto Clubs. Many of the cars will be on display in the town parking lot after the parade. Also taking part in the procession are the Liberty Train Club, the Peace Horse, the Liberty Bike Club, the, the Hubba-Hubba Book Club, the Liberty Boy Scouts, Just Breathe Yoga and more.

Headlining this year’s day-long entertainment are Somerville and Little Sparrow, with performances by Steve Levine on banjo, a martial arts Demonstration, Jim Red Fox storytelling, LightEXPO Hula Hoops, and Lorena the Spanish Dancer.

The party lasts all day with crafts for the children, face painting and plenty of family fun, including a colossal book sale, food, music and story-telling. Vendors and organizations include Gilson’s Native American Crafts, author Jim Red Fox, Handmade Dolls by Naomi Hurst, Catskill Mountainkeeper and Manor Ink. And pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs and a bake sale will be available in Renaissance Park.

Four lucky winners of the Livingston Manor Labor Day Parade raffle will take home prizes. The drawing will be held on Sunday, September 1 in Renaissance Park, at 3:00 p.m. after the parade. The owner of the first ticket drawn will receive the handmade queen-size multi-colored patchwork quilt currently on display at Morgan Outdoors. The owner of the second ticket will receive a crocheted afghan made of aqua, forest green and cream-colored squares by Sarah Madison. Third prize is two indigo Indian print throw pillows donated by Yolanda Custom Interiors and 4^th prize is a pieced decorative table runner made by Dina Johnson.

Tickets can be purchased for $5.00 each or six tickets for $25.00 at the Livingston Manor Library, Morgan Outdoors, Willow & Brown and Café 43, all on Main Street in Livingston Manor. Ticket sales will benefit the library. For more information, call 439-5440.

The Livingston Manor Labor Day Parade is co-sponsored by the M&M Auto Group of Liberty, Livingston Manor Rotary Club and the Livingston Manor Chamber of Commerce, and is supported by Jeff Bank and Quik Type with special support from the originator of the DeBruce Labor Day Parade, Steve Dill.

Admission is free, and all the fun starts at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 1. Proceeds will benefit the Livingston Manor Free Library. For more information, contact the Livingston Manor Library at 845-439-5440.

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JEFFERSONVILLE, NY (August 25, 2013) – Starting August 29, fans of WJFF Radio are in for some new shows.

WJFF, a Jeffersonville, NY public radio station with studios in Jeffersonville, NY and Honesdale, PA, announced that it is premiering two new locally-produced programs: “Music of the Spheres,” a two-hour classical show with a sprinkling of zodiacal wisdom, and “Living Jazz,” a one-hour program focusing on the work of jazz artists who are still active and contributing to the jazz scene.

In addition to the new programs, the station will make some minor tweaks to its Saturday night lineup. Starting August 31^st listeners will enjoy the locally-produced bilingual program “Spanglish con Ella” from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. followed by “Afropop Worldwide.” Longtime WJFF party rockers Paul Starkey and DJ Chucks will move up a half hour to start “Old Skool Sessions” at 10:00 p.m.

The two new shows to be added to the lineup provide fresh looks at favorite musical genres:

Music of the Spheres: Do you love music and are you interested in the influence of the stars upon the lives of its creators? This new WJFF offering, which premieres on Thursday, August 29 at noon, will feature classical and other music that has had a profound impact upon our culture. Host Mark Shulgasser, a long-time WJFF volunteer who lives in Long Eddy, NY, provides an astrological perspective on the music. The premiere program features Beethoven’s “Sagittarian Gallop” and follows up in subsequent weeks with takes on musical greats ranging from Mozart to Chopin to Perry Como. “I’ll be bring listeners a lot of old favorites and new discoveries with a sprinkling of zodiacal wisdom,“ says Shulgasser.

Living Jazz: Making its debut on Friday, August 30 at 1:00 p.m., Waymart , PA resident and WJFF volunteer Thane Peterson’s new show will provide a look at the jazz scene going beyond old standards and focusing on jazz artists who are still alive and kicking. “Jazz is an evolving art form, and I am looking forward to broadcasting my take on the current jazz scene,” says Peterson. “There are many talented musicians out there making new contributions to jazz."

“WJFF’s Program Committee has done excellent work with station volunteers to cultivate new local programming. We’re all really excited about these changes to our schedule, especially the opportunity to add new local shows to the lineup,” says Adam Weinreich, WJFF interim station manager. “We hope you all give us a listen and tell us what you think."

To get involved with WJFF and for more information about the station and its programming, contact: Adam Weinrich at 845-482-4141 or e-mail: adam@wjffradio.org.

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MONTICELLO, NY (August 22, 2013) – With thousands of people lining the streets and plenty of vendors hawking everything from food to jewelry and from handmade scarves to handmade soap, the 1st Annual Bagel Fest on Broadway  in Monticello seemed to go off without a hitch.

Created and produced by Jeff Siegel (wearing the apron in photo at left), owner of the Spencer Daniels Agency, the Bagel Fest started on Friday, August 16 with a by-invitation party where comedians “roasted” (or was that toasted) the bagel.

The festivities continued on Saturday, August 17 with a giant party on Broadway in Monticello, which included a giant peace-sign bagel and an attempt  to create the longest-ever bagel chain with more than 80 people. The attempt will be submitted to the Guinness Book of World Records for verification.

Here’s an album of photos from the party:

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To see more photos or to purchase prints from the Monticello Bagel Fest, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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Students Encouraged to Apply to Meet Fall Deadline @nysinternships.com

NEW YORK STATE (August 21, 2013) – NYS Civil Service Commissioner Jerry Boone announced recently that New York State has hundreds of internships available, and reminded college students to apply for Fall semester internships before the application deadline on September 3, 2013.

New York State created a one-stop website – www.nysinternships.com – that allows students to view and apply for internship opportunities across an array of state agencies both downstate and upstate.

Applicants can view job descriptions, create profiles, specify interests, and upload resumes, writing samples and letters of recommendation. Students can apply for multiple internships at the same time.

“The internship program is designed to attract and mentor a new generation of talented leaders for New York State,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “I continue to encourage talented college students to consider devoting time to public service while acquiring valuable skills and marketable work experience.”

The program is open to resident graduate and undergraduate students as well as students who attend schools in other states, but reside in New York.  Opportunities include both paid and unpaid positions. Internships may include academic credit depending on the policy of the educational institution.

To apply, visit nysinternships.com.

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FORESTBURGH, NY (August 20, 2013) – “The Jewel of the Neversink” is how Benjamin Wechsler referred to the 36-acre piece of paradise he wanted kept wild and protected from human impacts forever. Others who have experienced the special acreage would agree that there truly are such places that deserve to be preserved in their natural state.

The Jewel is part of a larger piece of land, a 1,600-acre property Ben owned in the Neversink River Gorge in Forestburgh.

Some of the greatest names in American fly fishing practiced their passion in the Neversink River, refined their technique and sometimes even wrote about their adventures in search of the perfect trout. One such publication is Justin Askin’s fine collection of essays, The Legendary Neversink: A Treasure of the Best Writing About One of America’s Great Trout Rivers.

Ben named the property “Turner Brook Reserve” after a stream that runs along the western section.

In the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, Ben found a like-minded partner to aid in his protection of the property and to uphold its conservation values like healthy forests, waters and wildlife habitats.

On their first foray into the property, Ben took Conservancy staff, Melinda Meddaugh and Amanda Subjin, for an exhilarating off-road experience. “We drove over branches and across an ancient bridge that was barely wide enough for the Jeep,” remembers Amanda. After “billy-goating” down a steep embankment to the river, the pair seemed to earn Ben’s respect. He responded with a “real tour” of the place, giving the women a keen understanding of what it was that he loved about his land – its wild and remote qualities.

Ben passed away on July 21, 2011 at the age of 82, but bequeathed to the Conservancy a conservation easement on the 36-acre Jewel.

This Jewel, nestled along the gorge, sits between the Neversink River Unique Area (NRUA) and the remaining 1,600 acres of Ben’s estate. Today the NRUA comprises 5,500 acres open to the public, some of which were part of the original Wechsler property. Turner Brook Reserve is not open to the public.

The remaining property has been divided into 11 tracts and is being offered by the executors of his estate to conservation buyers who would ideally uphold Ben’s vision of environmental stewardship and love for the beauty, peace, and recreational opportunities available to those who enjoy fishing, bird watching, forest walks, hunting, cross country skiing or other outdoor activities.

Along with another property protected by the Conservancy known as Rose Valley Forest, and the NRUA, the Turner Brook Reserve helps to build a greenway that adds to the scenic views and supports the protection and environmental health of the greater region for human and wildlife populations.

Funding for the project came from the New York Environmental Protection Fund and the New York State Conservation Partnership Program administered by the Land Trust Alliance, in coordination with the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Additional information on the Turner Brook Reserve property is available at www.turnerbrookreserve.com or by e-mailing info@turnerbrookreserve.com or by contacting the Conservancy at 570-226-3164.

To learn how you too can make a difference, by making a donation in support of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy’s work, volunteering at the office or an event, or protecting your own cherished land, contact the Conservancy at 570-226-3164, 845-583-1010, email info@delawarehighlands.org, or visit www.DelawareHighlands.org.

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JEFFERSONVILLE, NY – (August 19, 2013) – Want to boost the buzz for your Labor Day Weekend yard sale and support a great cause at the same time? Join WJFF’s “Yardstock,” a regional yard sale tour organized and promoted by WJFF.

WJFF, a Jeffersonville, NY public radio station with studios in Jeffersonville, NY and Honesdale, PA, will produce a self-guided Yard Sale Tour on Labor Day Weekend encompassing the station’s entire broadcast radius. A free map will guide shoppers to all the yard sales that are part of the tour during the weekend and will even list some highlighted items at each yard sale. Anyone who wants their yard sale to be listed on the map just needs to submit a short application (available at the station’s website) and agree to donate a percentage of their total sales to WJFF.

“We’re excited about this,“ says Adam Weinreich, WJFF interim station manager. “We’re reaching out to the public and asking people to hold a yard sale over Labor Day weekend. People who want to be part of it will be featured on the “self-guided-tour” map, which we’ll put on the WJFF website, then promote it like crazy.  More people will know about more yard sales.  Everyone wins.”
Anyone who is included on the map will have agreed to donate a percentage of their sales to WJFF, so the more successful each yard sale is, the more money WJFF will raise.

Beyond fundraising, Weinreich says, WJFF expects Yardstock to help build the ever-growing WJFF community. “A lot of our listeners will find out about a whole bunch of great yard sales that they might not have otherwise known about,“ he says, adding that the station plans a WJFF lemonade stand somewhere along the way to sell drinks and snacks and “give folks a chance to stop and show off some of their purchases.” He is even encouraging shoppers to make purchases during Yardstock to be dropped at WJFF as donations for the station’s annual auction, scheduled for late September this year.

WJFF Radio Catskill, is a hydro-powered volunteer-driven public radio station based in Jeffersonville, NY and with a satellite studio in Honesdale, PA. Its contingent of more than 80 volunteers provide listeners with a mix of both locally and nationally produced programming on the air at 90.5 and 94.5 FM and streamed live and archived at www.wjffradio.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (August 18, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has taken several critically important steps to substantially improve and strengthen the performance of New York’s large electric utilities during and after major storm events. These actions stem from recommendations made by the Moreland Commission on Utility Storm Preparation and Response, instituted by Governor Cuomo to investigate the electric utilities’ management, preparation and response to the major storms that have affected New York State over the past two years, including Superstorm Sandy, Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

“From our experience with extreme weather these last few years, it is clear that New York State’s electric utilities need to improve their preparation and response for future storms and emergencies,” Governor Cuomo said. “The investigation by the Moreland Commission on Utility Storm Preparation and Response identified many ways that the state’s utilities can do just that. Today’s actions by the Public Service Commission will build upon the efforts already underway to protect our residents and businesses from future significant storm-related outages, and ensure that utilities are held accountable during these events.”

The PSC ordered the six major investor-owned utilities operating in New York State, as part of their revised emergency response plans due on December 15, 2013, to implement reforms to three main issues identified in the Moreland Commission’s final report, including:

· Electric utilities should improve their development and timely issuance of localized estimated restoration times (ETRs).
· Electric utilities need to engage in an industry-wide effort to address deficiencies in the current mutual assistance process.
· Electric utilities need defined procedures for responding to large-scale flooding events.

”The provision of safe and reliable electricity is critical to the health and security of New Yorkers,” said PSC Chairman Garry Brown. “To fulfill this important obligation, utilities must appropriately respond to emergencies. The actions we are taking today will help ensure that utilities are adequately prepared to respond to emergency events, and that they respond appropriately to the challenge of restoring service promptly and efficiently.”

In addition to utility-specific recommendations put forth by the Moreland Commission, the PSC today ordered utilities to address a number of other recommendations in their electric emergency plans, some already implemented, such as:

· Coordinate communications with gas utilities and telecommunication companies.
· Include procedures for coordinating electric restoration with each telecommunications company’s restoration efforts during major storm events. Plans must describe the method and the means that will be used to communicate with telecommunications companies.
· Require each electric utility to provide more detailed procedures to track customers who experience flood damage to customer-owned electric equipment.
· Incorporate municipal call procedures, including the use of meeting agendas, used during events.
· Direct electric utilities to identify how energized wires are to be tracked and prioritized during an active storm and in what priority repair work related to down energized wires will be performed post storm, taking into account the potential for public harm.
· Clearly identify the methodology used to determine customer service representative staffing levels. Emergency plans must also contain detailed call center performance objectives and goals including the triggers and parameters for activating and use of third party vendor assistance in handling increased call volume.

Governor Cuomo’s 2013-14 State Budget enacted significantly more stringent assessment and overview of utility activity requirements in New York. As a result, the PSC is now required to approve electric emergency response plans filed annually by electric corporations every December, and specifies subject areas to be covered in the emergency response plans. To ensure compliance with newly strengthened laws and regulations, the PSC now has the ability to initiate a civil penalty proceeding in situations where a utility has failed to file or properly implement a storm plan.

In order to protect residents and businesses throughout the current storm system, many efforts to improve utility storm preparation and response have been underway for several months. Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, the utilities have already initiated a process to improve the mutual assistance protocols, many of the flood restoration procedures have been incorporated into the plans, and improvements are underway.

Specifically, last February, PSC staff directed the utilities to describe in detail the specific temporary and permanent measures the companies were taking to harden energy distribution systems against future storm damage in preparation for this year’s hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
PSC staff also directed the utilities to incorporate flood restoration procedures; pre-emptive power shutdown procedures; improvements in social media; completion of Irene, Lee, October snowstorm recommendations; and implementation of company lessons learned from Superstorm Sandy.
In addition, last month, PSC staff provided additional direction to the utilities designed to improve mutual assistance protocols; improve identification and contacts for all telecommunication companies within each utilities’ service territory; improve coordination with local officials; and refine utility-specific wires down procedures.

In April, Governor Cuomo unveiled a new utility ‘scorecard’ as a way to hold utilities accountable for power restorations after a significant outage using a quantitative assessment of electric utility performance, as part of the State’s efforts for more aggressive review and evaluation of utilities following Superstorm Sandy. The scorecard will help establish standards to promote effective emergency preparation and response by utilities in the restoration of power to their communities. Holding utilities accountable to such standards will ensure that they have the ability, capacity, and mindset to act quickly and effectively. The utilities will be reporting under the refined scorecard while further improvements are made.

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NEW YORK STATE (August 16, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently alerted parents, guardians and young adults about a growing trend of child identity theft. These victims may not discover their identities have been stolen until they begin applying for loans, credit card accounts, or renting their first apartment.

“Child identify theft is often a crime that is not realized until years later after damage has already been done to a stolen identity,” Governor Cuomo said. “New Yorkers need to be aware of this growing trend. I encourage parents and guardians to be proactive in their efforts to protect their children’s identities and personal information.”

Child identity theft is the assumption of an identity through the use of a minor’s personal information and social security number. Once this information is attained, the thief will use it to create a false identity. Then the false identity will often be used to obtain credit cards, open new utility accounts, or make large purchases such as a car or home. Subsequently, the child victim is left with damaged credit that frequently remains undetected for years.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection is advising the public to remain vigilant with their personal information and to take the following precautions to make sure theirs and their children’s identities are not compromised:

· Obtain a credit report with your child’s personal information by contacting the three credit agencies. If any activity is detected, immediately file an identity theft complaint with your local police and report findings with the three credit agencies.
– Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
– Experian: 1-888-397-3742
– Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

· The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of these nationwide credit reporting companies to provide consumers with a free copy of their credit report, at their request, once every 12 months. To order, consumers can go to http://www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.

· Be aware of any suspicious mail addressed to your child. If any credit card offers or debt collection materials contain your child’s name, contact each credit reporting agency immediately as it might be a sign of identity theft.

· If your child is headed to college or moving out on his or her own, request a copy of his or her credit report in advance to verify the information is accurate.

· If a young adult in your household receives pre-approved credit offers, it is important that he or she shred any unwanted mail. Identity theft rates are highest amongst students ages 18 to 24.

· Be careful in providing children’s personal identifying information for after-school activities, tutoring or sports team/ club participation. If asked for a social security number, inquire why is it needed? Isn’t there another way to identify my child? How will my child’s information be protected? Only reveal your child’s Social Security number if you have no other option.

· Talk to your child about the importance of Internet safety, identify what information is personal to your child and work with your child to create the life-long habit of securing his or her personal information.

In March of this year, Carnegie Mellon’s CyLab reported that children are 51 times more likely than adults to be victims of identity theft.

The New York Department of State (DOS) Consumer Guide to Identity Theft is available here, and information specifically pertaining to child identify theft can be found here. For further information about child identity theft or to file a complaint, please contact the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection at (518)-474-8583 or visit www.dos.ny.gov.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY CATSKILLS (August 15, 2013) – Did you hear the one about the Borscht Belt comedian?

If you did, Heather Struck wants to talk to you. Struck is a journalist who is looking for volunteers to participate in an oral history project with those who spent time in the Catskills resorts in the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

The particular focus is comedy and performers who entertained in the resorts. And the interviews are part of a research project for a book about comedy in New York.

Former employees. guests, performers and their families are welcome to participate in an interview.

Get in touch with Struck via this web form http://brkny.wordpress.com/about/ and leave contact details.

Heather Struck’s work has appeared in Forbes, Reuters and Zeit Online. She was an Arthur F. Burns fellow in Berlin in 2011. Her blog is called Birth of a Punchline.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (August 14, 2013) – August 15 kicks off a weekend of  traditions – both new and old – in the Sullivan County Catskills.

Beginning the festivities in what is easily the most fantastic weekend of August is the 44th anniversary of the Woodstock Music and Art Fair in Bethel, where thousands converged on Bethel in 1969 for Woodstock and featured performances by The Who, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and others.

This year’s anniversary celebration will play host to performances by Comedy duo Cheech & Chong and the bands WAR and Tower of Power at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

And just outside the gates of Bethel Woods, “Retro69” will take the stage on Sunday August 18 from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the Catskill Distilling Company. Billing themselves as a "Tribute to Woodstock", the band recreates the concert, performing the show in the same order of the original 1969 festival, running from Havens through Hendrix.

On the other side of Sullivan County, another tradition continues with the 134^th Annual Little World’s Fair at the Grahamsville Fairgrounds. Festivities begin Thursday evening with a “car-load” deal of just $40 per car, and offers unlimited access to parking and rides. The activities will continue through Sunday and include performers, live music, rides, a youth fair, a Draft Horse Pull and an impressive fireworks display on Saturday night.

Back in the Monticello area, a new tradition is beginning Saturday with the launch of the inaugural Bagel Festival, complete with a variety of food and craft vendors, music, bands, artists, sculptures, a bagel parade, and the Bagel Family.

On Sunday at the Bagel Festival, attendees will have the chance to be a part of the world’s largest tie-dyed peace sign bagel by signing their names on the giant sculpture, which will be submitted to Guinness World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Attendees will also help create the world’s largest bagel chain made out of real bagels, which will be submitted to the Guinness Book of World Records.

“This weekend is a perfect example of what makes the Sullivan County Catskills so incredible,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, president and CEO of the SCVA. “We’ve got a little bit of everything for the whole family; just check out our online Events Calendar to see what else we have in store.”

For more information, call 845-747-4449 or visit www.SCVA.net.

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LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY – Hundreds of people attended the Sullivan Renaissance Awards Ceremony on Monday, August 12, as over $100,000 in grants and scholarships were awarded to winning communities throughout Sullivan County. For the second consecutive year, the ceremony was held at the Seelig Theater of SUNY Sullivan in Loch Sheldrake.

Livingston Manor Renaissance received the Golden Feather, a $25,000 grant presented by NYS Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther. It was given to one of four large community projects that exhibited the highest level of excellence by incorporating beautification as part of a long-term strategy. The Callicoon Business Association received the second place Silver Feather Award of $10,000.

Livingston Manor also got a $2500 award for the community’s planning efforts, while the Rock Hill Business and Community Association was given a special $2500 award in recognition of its environmental efforts.

The winner of the new $10,000 Community Mitzvah Award went to Skolya Bungalows on Route 42 in South Fallsburg for best maintaining and beautifying its facility. This new contest included five camps and bungalow colonies in Sullivan County. The three judges from outside the county were: Rabbi Moshe Frank of Ellenville, Mary Lewis of Cornwall and Country Yossi Toiv of Brooklyn.

Click on the link to read the whole story from the 2013 Sullivan Renaissance Awards.

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Photos © Carol Montana

SOUTH FALLSBURG, NY (August 11, 2013) – The 8th Annual National Night Out in South Fallsburg on Tuesday, August 6 attracted hundreds of children and parents. They played basketball, watched Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do and line dancing demonstrations, ate hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, cookies, cupcakes and ice cream. And the kids had their faces painted, too.

The crowds gathered in Brian Ingber Park to celebrate what has become a national event to prevent crime and support children in making good decisions.

In addition to the food, the games and the demonstrations, there were representatives from many social and health-related organizations.

Sponsors of the event included Fallsburg Communities That Care, The Recovery Center, The Town of Fallsburg and the Fallsburg Police Department.

Here are some photos from the event:

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ROCK HILL, NY (August 10, 2013) — This November, New York State voters will get to decide if the Catskills will get a casino.

And the Sullivan County Legislature and tourism officials aren’t taking this possibility lightly. On August 14, the Legislature, Sullivan County Visitors Association, Partnership for Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders will host a kick-off event in support of the Upstate NY Gaming Economic Development Act signed by Governor Cuomo on July 30.

The rally, which will feature local elected leaders, a voter registration drive, opportunities to volunteer and promotional materials, will be held at 6pm on Wednesday, August 14, 2013 at The Sullivan in Rock Hill, NY.

This comprehensive new law will, pending approval of a referendum this fall, establish four destination gaming resorts in upstate New York and boost tourism and economic development in communities across the region. Under the new law, all localities in the state will share in increased education aid, or lower property taxes, no matter where the casinos are located.

The event will kick off a state-wide awareness and advocacy campaign in support of the referendum, while encouraging Sullivan County’s 30,000 unregistered voters to register before the October 11 voter registration deadline. Of Sullivan County’s 45,000 registered voters, less than half voted in the last presidential election and the rally hopes to encourage high voter turn-out to ensure the referendum’s success.

On November 5, New York State voters will decide, by voting yes or no on the gaming referendum. To learn more about the Upstate New York Gaming and Economic Development Act, visit http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/07302013-upstate-ny-gaming-economic-development-act.

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FALLSBURG, NY (August 10, 2013) – On Saturday, July 27, the Fallsburg Alumni Association held its 9th Annual Reunion and Luncheon at the Fallsburg Jr. Sr. High School.

Alumni Cynthia Johnston, Linda Goldstein and Debbie Briggs along with their  Aunt Louise Clairmont were presented with Fallsburg Alumni Association Service Awards for their selfless work for the Fallsburg food pantry at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in South Fallsburg. Also honored with a Community Service Award was retired Fallsburg teacher, Richard Chiger, for his contributions to the community through his work with the Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop and the Catskill Exotic Bird Club.

Also awarded were four $500 scholarships plus the Sheryl Kalter Memorial Scholarship to deserving 2013 graduates.

Joan Collins presented the Class of ’73 40th Reunion Scholarship to Adam Dohrenwend. 

The Alumni Association is always ready to welcome new members. Contact Eileen ekalter@hvc.rr.com.

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Monticello – August 7, 2013 – The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce held its 2^nd Summer Edition Family Fun Day on 7/27/13, sponsored by Thunder 102 and YEL!, the young professional taskforce of the Chamber, and hosted by Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun Park.

At the event, YEL! held its first food drive to benefit the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce & YEL were able to donate nearly 200 non-perishable food items to the Sullivan Federation, which houses the Sullivan County Food Pantry.

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Campaign Helps with Back to School Supplies for Needy Children

SULLIVAN & ORANGE COUNTIES, NY (August 9, 2013) – A drive to put backpacks filled with school supplies into the hands of needy children in Orange and Sullivan Counties this fall is being launched by the Town of Wallkill Boys and Girls Club.

“Each year brings a greater demand as the need increases in our community. During this challenging economy, a family with one or more students could appreciate the savings of having school supplies and a backpack taken care of. Each year brings greater demand as the need increases in our communities. We started three years ago with around a dozen backpacks, and we’re hoping to give more than 200 stuffed backpacks this year!” said BGC Executive Director Alexis Eggleton.

Now through Friday, August 23 you can visit the following businesses to drop off supplies. While these businesses will be collecting specific goods, any donation is gratefully accepted:

Orange Regional Medical Center: Binders and Folders

Catskill Regional Medical Center: Markers and Crayons

Jeff Bank Locations: Looseleaf Paper and Notebooks

Revere Smelting & Refinery: Looseleaf Paper and Notebooks

RJ Smith Realty: Pens, pencils and writing implements

Crystal Run Healthcare: Markers and Crayons and Colored Pens

Assorted back to school supplies will also be collected at the Town Halls in Deerpark, Mt. Hope, Mamakating and Town of Wallkill. Glenn L. Smith Engineering and Anyone Can Fitness in Monticello, NY are also collecting general supplies.

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is also getting into the Backpack project. Concert goers for the sold-out Luke Bryan concert on Friday, August 23 are being asked to donate school supplies to donate at the gate before entering the show.

For more information, call the Boys & Girls Club at 845-342-8833.

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HURLEYVILLE, NY (August 8, 2013) – The premiere of the play “HolyHolyHoly” will take place on Saturday, August 17 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sullivan County Museum at 265 Main Street in Hurleyville.

Written by Bill Duncan (photo left), author of the critically acclaimed and award-winning play “Trust,” "HolyHolyHoly" tells of three men, the faith that nourished them and the women who loved them. The values are universal; their struggles are for our time. And then there’s the awkward aspect: Avery, Will and Zeke are priests. Or were.

Featured cast for “HolyHolyHoly,” which is being performed as a reading, are Bill Moloney as Will, Paul Puerschner as Avery, Albee Bockman as Zeke, Mike Gastwirth as Mac, DeLois House as Flora, Ellen Pavloff as Brenda/Peggy, Carol Montana as Loretta/Lucy, and Adam Dohrenwend as Matthew. The play is directed by the author and is recommended for mature audiences.

Admission is free. Refreshments will be available for purchase to benefit the Sullivan County Historical Society.

For more information, call 845-985-7783.

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NEW YORK STATE (August 7, 2013) – Yesterday, on the 48^th anniversary of President Lyndon Johnson’s signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo reminded New Yorkers that the deadline to register to vote in the upcoming September primary elections is August 16.

The Governor also released new data showing that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have used the state’s new online MyDMV, and automated systems to register, or update, their voter registration since its launch last year.

“With the launch of our secure online and electronic voter registration systems, New York knocked down barriers that kept some residents from participating in the democratic process,” Governor Cuomo said. “As we approach another election season, I encourage New Yorkers to make sure they are registered to vote to cast their ballot in September.”

The new online registration initiative was announced last August and marked the first time that New Yorkers were able to apply to complete the voter registration process online. Since the program began, 73,210 individuals have registered online — 25,344 of which were first-time voters. An additional 164,091 have registered, or updated their voter information, using electronic devices in DMV offices. Of them, 59,710 were first time registrants.

The goal of the initiative was to expand access to voter registration and allow New Yorkers for the first time ever to apply to register to vote or update their address or party enrollment through a secure online site.

“I am very pleased that so many people have taken the opportunity to visit the DMV website and register to vote using this new service,” said Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Barbara J. Fiala. “When Governor Cuomo asked DMV to develop this capability to better serve New Yorkers, we anticipated a great response, and that is what we have seen in the number of people who have now registered to vote either online or using the electronic devices in our offices.”

In order to apply to register to vote online at http://dmv.ny.gov/, a person must have a valid New York State license or identification card and establish a MyDMV account. MyDMV requires users to create a secure online account that is validated through the verification of personal information, such as date of birth, social security number, address and license document number.

More information on the Governor’s efforts to increase access to the voter registration process can be found here: http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/08162012-voter-registration-reform.

Additional information specifically on online registrations is available here:http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/08272012online-voter-registration.

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KAUNEONGA LAKE, NY (August 6, 2013) – Naturalist Ed Wesely will present a Monarch Butterfly Program at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County on Saturday, August 17 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

For 20 years, Ed Wesely and Barbara Yeaman have rescued Monarch butterfly eggs and caterpillars from threatened habitats, reared, and released them. With the help of local school children, they’ve nurtured and released over 6,000 adult monarchs.

Attendees will learn about the Monarch life cycle, its migration to Mexico, and the threats to the population and their habitat. This is a program for the whole family.

This event is free and open to the public, but prior registration is requested. The Cornell Cooperative Extension office is located at 64 Ferndale Loomis Road, Liberty, NY.

To register and receive directions, call the Delaware Highlands Conservancy at 845-583-1010, e-mail info@delawarehighlands.org, or visit www.DelawareHighlands.org.

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All photos © Carol Montana

HURLEYVILLE & NARROWSBURG, NY (August 5, 2013) –  The weekend of July 27 and 28, 2013 was a big one in Sullivan County, NY.

Saturday saw a huge welcome home party for a hometown hero, Congressional Medal of Honor awardee, Francis Currey, who was greeted with a parade and a ceremony. Later in the day, a family fun day was held at Morningside Park.

The following day, the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance held the 23rd Annual Riverfest on Main Street in Narrowsburg. There you could purchase crafts from many vendors, learn about fracking and water safety and bid on one of more than 60 posters made by community-minded residents.

Here are some photos from each of the events. First up Francis Currey Day:

And here’s Riverfest!

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LIBERTY, NY (August 4, 2013) – Homeowners and renters can learn to reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills at a Save Energy, Save Dollars workshop on Thursday, August 29, 2013.

This EmPower New York class is being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at 6 pm 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 to them.
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 http://www.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 (August 3, 2013) – The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office is alerting citizens that a rabid fox was captured in the northeast section of the Town of Bethel last week.

On July 24, 2013 at approximately 10:30 a.m., a resident on School House Road, which is just off State Route 55 between Swan Lake and Kauneonga Lake, noticed a fox acting aggressively toward his dogs. The animal was subsequently destroyed and sent to a lab in Albany where it tested positive for rabies. This incident highlights the need to vaccinate your pets and remain on alert for any animals that could come in contact with humans and spread the disease.

Sullivan County Public Health is working closely with the Sheriff’s Office on this issue and would like to remind residents of the following:

-Pets must receive regular rabies vaccine or a confrontation with a rabid animal will lead to a six month strict confinement under observation at your expense or euthanization of your pet.
-Pets should be kept inside and when outside be under observation in a enclosed area or on a leash at all times.
-Keep children away from wildlife even if it appears tame.
-The rabies virus is carried in saliva and nervous tissue, not in blood. If your animal has a confrontation with a fox or other wildlife, once you and your pet are safe, you should check your animal for wounds. It is very important that you wear latex gloves while checking to avoid being exposed to possibly infected saliva.
-A vaccinated pet is a safety buffer between rabid wildlife and you.
-Do not attempt to confront a wild animal acting aggressively or of the type that is not normally out during the day: go inside and call 911 immediately.

Call Sullivan County Public Health for information about rabies clinics and for literature or advice about rabies.: 845-292-5910.

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NEW YORK STATE (August 2, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently signed a bill that strengthens Leandra’s Law and provides new safeguards to keep drunken drivers off New York’s roads.

Leandra’s Law, originally passed in 2009, imposed tough new penalties on persons who operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol with children in the vehicle. One of the law’s most notable provisions is the required installation of an ignition interlock device on vehicles owned, or operated, by a person convicted of alcohol-related offenses.

“Driving under the influence puts everyone on the road at risk. By strengthening Leandra’s Law we are continuing the strides made in her memory to combat this dangerous behavior and prevent additional senseless tragedy,” Governor Cuomo said.

Leandra’s Law was named after 11-year-old Leandra Rosado, who was killed in a crash while a passenger in a car driven by a drunken driver.

The law signed by Governor Cuomo updates the current law to make it a felony to drive drunk on a conditional license. Drivers who lose their license for drunk driving may be issued a conditional license when enrolled in an alcohol and drug rehabilitation program run by the Department of Motor Vehicles. A conditional license may be used only for driving to and from essential destinations such as work, school, and medical appointments. Currently, driving drunk on a revoked license is a felony, but driving drunk on a conditional license is only a traffic infraction. This change makes the penalties equivalent.

The bill also limits the circumstances in which a court can waive the installation of an interlock device to only when a person under oath attests that he or she is not the owner of a motor vehicle and will not operate any vehicle during the period of the interlock restriction. Lying under oath would be considered perjury.

The legislation also expands the requirements for the use of ignition interlock devices by making youthful offenders subject to the same ignition interlock requirements that are now applicable to adults.

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HURLEYVILLE, NY (July 31, 2013) – A collection of antique travel souvenirs  of the Catskill Mountains is on display this summer in a new exhibit at the Sullivan County History Museum.

The collection, created by Sullivan County native Ginny Brown Davis, focuses on souvenirs associated with several communities located in the western part of Sullivan County, NY.

Featuring postcards, chinaware, decorative items, and other small tchotchkes, the exhibit contains many examples of the large variety of items that tourists  could acquire to remember their visit to the Catskill Mountains, which was a popular vacation destination of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The exhibit includes Ms. Davis’ written analysis of the souvenir items featured in this display with a special focus on the regional attributes that were featured in these souvenirs. The exhibit will be on display through Labor Day.

The Museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The Sullivan County Historical Society and Sullivan County Museum is located at 265 Main Street, Hurleyville, NY. For additional information, call 845-434-8044 or visit http://www.sullivancountyhistory.org.

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SOUTH FALLSBURG, NY (July 29, 2013) – With the help of the Fallsburg Fire Department and NYSEG, two banners went up on Route 42 at the south and north entrances to South Fallsburg, signaling the 8th Annual National Night Out (NNO) on Tuesday, August 6, at Brian Ingber Park in South Fallsburg, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Over 200 children and parents are expected for the free hamburgers and hot dogs, three-on-three basketball competition, spokespeople from dozens of social and health related organizations, karate exhibition, line dancing participation, face-painting, and gymnastics for kids. There will be fingerprinting for the children as an identification and safety service by Monticello Masons.

Local speakers will address the children briefly on the focus of the evening that is part of the NNO nation-wide program to support children in making good decisions and staying crime free in the community. Prizes will be awarded to children present.

As a special feature, the Sandy Hook Promise Organization is sending a speaker to the event, where they will have a table set up with "Make the Promise" papers in support of preventing future incidents similar to what happened in Newtown, CT where 21 children and teachers were shot and killed.  They will also have two family members of victims present that evening.

For further information, please contact Charles Davis at (845) 434-0148, who is President of Fallsburg Communities That Care, one of the sponsors of the event along with The Recovery Center, The Town of Fallsburg and the Town Police Department.

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LIBERTY, NY (July 28, 2013) — In recent years there has been an increase in awareness that introduced invasive species are having a significant impact on our economies, our environment, and our health. Many of the currently known invasive plants causing problems today were originally imported as ornamentals. Recent increases in global trade, including trade in ornamental plants, have created new opportunities for the spread of both intentional and non-intentional exotic species. (Japanese Knotweed at left).

It is estimated that only 1% of the species introduced every year will become invasive. Invasive species include plants and animals, including insects and pathogens. They have negative impacts on forests, agriculture, wildlife, fish, shellfish, and human health. They also diminish recreational areas. Even though only a small percentage become invasive, the damage they cause is significant. The need for a national early detection and rapid response (ED/RR) system has been recognized in order to deal with this increasing threat. (Milfoil at right).

Research has shown that the best strategy to deal with invasive species is to identify and eradicate them before they become established.  Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County is working with the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) to develop an ED/RR system in the Catskill region. The public in the Catskill region is urged to join in this important task. The more eyes there are looking for these invaders, the easier it will be to deal with them quickly and effectively. (Zebra mussels at left).

Information and free identification services for potential early detection species is available at the CCE office in Liberty. If you suspect you have found a new invasive species, on your property or anywhere in the region, please call 845-292-6180 or email sullivan@cornell.edu.

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Fly Fishing Hall of Fame Induction and Memorial to Doc Fried

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (July 27, 2013) – The Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum presents their 30th Annual Summerfest on the weekend of August 3 and 4 at their museum on Old Route 17 in Livingston Manor, NY.

The weekend will include an Anglers Market/Canvas Paint Out/Arts and Craft Show/Jubilee Day and Hardy Cup Bamboo Rod Casting Competition.

The Anglers Market features over 100 tables of fly fishing and outdoors sports related equipment, collectibles, fly tying materials, old rods, reels, and everything else you cannot find anywhere else in a flea market setting on the lower field. Vendors set up their tents and tables early in the morning and are ready to go by 8:30 a.m. on Saturday and 9:00 a.m on Sunday. If you see it, buy it as it is mostly a one of a kind and if you turn your back, it will be gone.

Once again the CFFCM will host The Hardy Cup, a bamboo rod casting contest bringing in casters from Sullivan County to as far away as Japan. This exciting event consists of 3 competitive casts; two for distance and one for accuracy. You don’t have to be the best to enter. After casting for the Hardy Cup is completed, Hardy provides a Pig Roast barbeque. This no charge and everyone is welcome. On Sunday after casting has been completed, all winners will be announced at 1 p.m.

There will also be be a vintage fly fishing tackle and outdoors collectibles show; an anglers market that now includes local farm and home goods; hot sausage and peppers served daily; a jubilee day that celebrates everyone’s milestone ending in a 0 or 5 and Agnes Van Put’s 97th birthday complete with free cake on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m.

This year, in cooperation with D&H Canvas, the regional monthly arts and culture newspaper, the CFFCM will host 15 artists for the first Catskill Paint Out, painting their own images of the area. (All Artists will be then featured in an Art Show to be displayed in Catskill Fly Fishing Center Wulff Gallery until December).

During the Summerfest, you can also visit the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum, The Wulff Gallery, and The Catskill Rodmakers Workshop.

At 3:00 p.m. on Sunday in the Wulff Gallery, there will be a celebration of the life of “Doc” Allan Fried, founder of Summerfest and friend of the community. Doc Fried’s family will be on hand.

Hours for the Summerfest are Saturday, August 3 from 8:30 a.m.  to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Listen to the sounds of the Kurpil Family Fiddlers on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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ORANGE COUNTY, NY (July 25, 2013) – “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of State Trooper Winston I. Martindale Jr.

“Trooper Martindale served New York State and our residents with courage and honor, putting his life on the line in a heroic attempt to save the lives of two pilots after a tragic airplane crash in 2011 in Orange County. Despite suffering severe injuries, Trooper Martindale stayed at the scene of the accident for six hours. Trooper Martindale courageously battled serious medical hardships for more than two years, and passed away on Wednesday. He was just 40 years old – a tragic, heartbreaking loss.

“We will never forget Trooper Martindale’s selfless sacrifice, dedication, and bravery in rushing into a dangerous situation to protect the lives of others. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest condolences and send my thoughts and prayers to the loved ones that Trooper Martindale left behind.”

Martindale, a seven-year veteran of the NY State Police was assigned to the New Hampton barracks. He died on Wednesday at the age of 40.

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