The Catskill Chronicle

Birthday Celebration and Art & Collectible Auction Scheduled

LIBERTY, NY (July 24, 2013) – Liberty Museum and Arts Center is celebrating their 16th Anniversary on Liberty’s Main Street.

Over 30 shows are scheduled in their four existing galleries.

In the past, the museum and arts center has hosted over 300 exhibits and programs, examining local and regional history and current issues, through photography, lectures, conferences, bus and walking tours. In addition, there have been musical concerts, poetry readings, plays, book signings, children’s programs and more.

It is all with a hope that the Liberty Museum and Arts Center will be the hub of the cultural and creative community of Liberty and the surrounding areas.

The museum is currently partnering with the Liberty Free Theatre to make the arts center the home of a fully operational theatre  in 2014.

Liberty Museum and Arts Center will begin the next stage of their development, with a Birthday Celebration on August 10 at 6:00 p.m.

They are located at 46 South Main Street, Liberty, NY. It will be an evening of food, fun and entertainment and will include an Art and Collectibles Auction. The public is invited to attend.

For more information, e-mail LibertyNYMuseum@yahoo.com or call 845-292-2394. You can also find them at www.libertymuseum.com and Facebook.

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U.S. Supreme Court Decision Means New York Taxpayers may be Eligible for Refunds by Amending Previously Filed Estate Tax Returns

NEW YORK STATE (July 23, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that Estate Tax refunds are available to qualified spouses of same-sex couples. Refunds may be available as a result of the recent United States Supreme Court decision, United States v. Windsor, in which the Court held that section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. Taxpayers impacted by this change should contact the New York State Taxpayer Information Center at 518-457-5387.

“The Supreme Court’s decision to strike down DOMA was a groundbreaking civil rights victory that brought the LGBT community closer to the true meaning of equal rights under the law,” Governor Cuomo said. “As a result of that decision, New York State is now able to issue refund checks to qualified same-sex spouses who were required to pay taxes for no reason other than their sexual orientation. This financial compensation is one more step toward justice for Edie Windsor, and all of the men and women who confronted similar indifference at a time of deep personal loss.”

In that DOMA case, Edie Windsor, a New Yorker, sued the federal government after the Internal Revenue Service denied her refund request for the $363,000 in federal estate taxes she paid after her spouse, Thea Spyer, died in 2009. She also had filed a protective claim with the New York State Tax Department asking for a similar Estate Tax refund from New York.

New York State became the largest state to achieve marriage equality in June 2011 with the passage of its Marriage Equality Act. This prompted the Tax Department to one month later define that, for New York State estate tax purposes, the Act takes effect for the estates of decedents who died on or after July 24, 2011. Given the Supreme Court’s decision, this treatment now also applies to estates of individuals married to same-sex spouses who died prior to July 24, 2011.

“Now, taxpayers affected by the Supreme Court decision may amend any previously filed estate tax return where the statute of limitations to apply for a refund remains open,” said Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Thomas H. Mattox.

Generally, a claim for credit or refund of an overpayment of estate tax must be filed by a taxpayer within three years from the date the original return was filed or two years from the date the tax was paid. The State did not reveal the dollar amount of the estate tax refunds, citing the privacy provisions of the Tax Law.
Additional information can be found on the Tax Department’s memorandum on estates of same-sex couples.

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LIBERTY, NY (July 22, 2013) – This year it was said on a Facebook post by a fan, "Liberty Festival on the 4th of July is the Sullivan County Event of the year!"

The parade committee feels that this year deserves some extra recognition and so awarded some “best of” categories. Here are five of the standouts:

1. Best Community Float-Civic Organization: Liberty Elks (BPOE).

2. Best Community Float-Religious Organization: St Paul’s Lutheran Church.

3. Best Family Participation: Jim Herbert and the Herbert Family, for their display of Oliver tractors.

4. Best Traditional Display: Barbara Siegel, the Siegel Family and Keith Huggler.

5. Best Political Float: Committee to Elect Russell Reeves.

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HURLEYVILLE, NY (July 19, 2013) – Donna Singer will perform at a jazz benefit concert and dinner for the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. 

The event will be held at Nadia’s Hungarian Buffet at 222 Main Street, Hurleyville on Saturday July 27 at 6:00 p.m.

Admission is $20.00/pp and includes entertainment and dinner. It’s a cool evening of jazz for a great cause.

The SC Federation for the Homeless operates a soup kitchen serving breakfast and lunch five days a week. In addition, they run a bi-weekly food pantry, including a special Veteran’s pantry serving vets and their families in Sullivan County.

For more info on the Federation, please call Kathy Kreiter at 845-794-2604.

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Near Record Demand for Electricity as Much of the State Swelters in 4th Consecutive Day of 90 Degree-Plus Temperatures

NEW YORK STATE, (July 19, 2013) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged New Yorkers to reduce their energy usage during the current heat wave affecting most of the State to help prevent power outages. The heat wave, the longest and worst of the summer, has resulted in near record demand for electricity.

“During this heat wave, it is understandable that many New Yorkers are staying cool indoors and turning up the air conditioning,” Governor Cuomo said. “However, this has led to near record demand for electricity so I urge New Yorkers to proactively conserve electricity use when possible to ease the pressure on the power grid and prevent outages. As we wait for temperatures to go down, New Yorkers should take appropriate actions to stay cool and healthy.”

To help reduce demand for electricity, the Governor called upon consumers to conserve. Power outages are more likely to occur during warm weather, when utility usage is at its peak. To avoid putting a strain on the power grid, conserve energy to help prevent power disruptions.

To conserve energy use:
Set your air conditioner thermostat no lower than 78 degrees. Only use the air conditioner when you are home.
Turn non-essential lighting and appliances off – only use appliances that have heavy electrical loads early in the morning or very late at night.

New Yorkers are encouraged to follow these tips to stay healthy, and protect themselves and others from the heat:

Slow down on strenuous activity and exercise, especially during the sun’s peak hours – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exercise in the early morning between 4-7 a.m. Eat less protein and more fruits and vegetables – protein produces and increases metabolic heat, which can cause water loss. Eat small meals, but eat more often. Do not eat salty foods. Drink at least 2-4 glasses of water per hour during extreme heat, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine. If possible, stay out of the sun and stay in air conditioning. The sun heats the inner core of your body, resulting in dehydration. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine, or go to a public building with air conditioning. If you must go outdoors, wear sunscreen with a high sun protector factor rating (at least SPF 15) and a hat to protect your face and head. When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn and over-warming effects of sunlight on your body.
Do not leave children, pets or those who require special care in a parked car or vehicle during periods of intense summer heat – temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees Fahrenheit quickly. Exposure to high temperatures can kill within a matter of minutes.

Make an effort to check on your neighbors, especially if they are elderly, have young children or have special needs. Make sure there is enough water and food for pets and limit their exercise.

People Who Should Be Aware: Elderly persons and small children are mostly affected. Persons with weight or alcohol problems are very susceptible to heat reactions. Persons on certain medications or drugs.

Heat Health Hazards:
Heat Stroke: Also known as sunstroke – can be life threatening. Body temperature can rise and cause brain damage; death may result if not cooled quickly. Signals include hot, red, and dry skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse, and shallow breathing. Relief for lowering body temperature can be with a cold bath or sponge. Heat Exhaustion: Less dangerous than heat stroke, heat exhaustion usually occurs when people exercise too heavily or work in warm, humid places where body fluids are lost. Signals include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness and exhaustion. If symptoms occur, get the victim out of sun, and apply cool, wet cloths. Sunburn: Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself. Signals include redness and pain; in severe cases, swelling of skin, blisters, fever, and headaches can occur. Ointments can be a relief for pain in mild cases. A physician should see serious cases.
Heat Cramps: Muscular pains and spasms caused by heavy exertion. Loss of water and salt from sweating causes cramping. Signals are abdominal and leg muscle pain. Relief can be firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massages to relieve cramping.

For more information, visit State OEM’s Heat Safety Tips at http://www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/publicsafety/heataware.cfm.

To receive up-to-the-minute weather alerts in your area, sign up for free today at http://www.nyalert.gov.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY & SURROUNDING AREAS (July 18, 2013) – Heat Advisory In Effect Through 8 PM EDT Friday… The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Heat Advisory…Which Is In Effect From Noon To 8 PM EDT Friday.

* Locations…Central New York And Northeast Pennsylvania.

* Hazards…Heat And Humidity With Heat Indices Around 100. Urban Areas May See Heat Indices Approaching 105 Friday Afternoon.

* Temperatures…In The Lower 90S.

* Timing…Friday Afternoon.

* Impacts…If Precautions Are Not Taken…Heat Exhaustion Or Other Heat Related Symptoms Could Occur For Those Doing Outdoor Activities. The Very Young And Elderly Are Most At Risk.

Take Extra Precautions If You Work Or Spend Time Outside. When Possible…Reschedule Strenuous Activities To Early Morning Or Evening. Know The Signs And Symptoms Of Heat Exhaustion And Heat Stroke.

Wear Light Weight And Loose Fitting Clothing When Possible And Drink Plenty Of Water.

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Consumers Urged to Use www.NYPolicyFinder.com to Check If They Are Entitled to Unpaid Benefits

NEW YORK STATE (July 17, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s administration recently issued a final report on the Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) investigation into unpaid benefits for consumers at life insurance companies. The report showed that the investigation recovered more than $1.1 billion in unpaid life insurance benefits for consumers nationwide, including $386 million for New Yorkers. To date, life insurance payments resulting from this investigation have been made to more than 100,000 consumers nationwide, including more than 25,000 New Yorkers.
“As a result of this aggressive investigation, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in life insurance benefits for thousands of families across the nation – including more than 25,000 New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo said. “Going forward, we will continue these efforts to ensure consumers get every single penny they are entitled to.”

A DFS investigation found that many insurance companies regularly received a list of recent deaths from the Social Security Administration but were not using that list to determine if a policy holder had died. That means if a family member did not know there was a life insurance policy or simply forgot to file a claim to the insurance company, that policy went unpaid. As a result, thousands of families did not receive life insurance benefits to which they were entitled.
Meanwhile, the investigation found that insurance companies often used the list of recent deaths to verify the status of people getting annuity checks, and, when a death was verified, the insurance company stopped the annuity payment.

As a result of its investigation, DFS directed insurers to use the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File to investigate policies for which no claims have been made and to find beneficiaries who are eligible for benefits but have not filed claims. New York was the first state to order the cross-check policy and issued a regulation to mandate this action in the future. In December 2012, Governor Cuomo signed into law legislation that makes permanent regular searches of records to identify when a policyholder died and to locate beneficiaries so that life insurance proceeds can be paid.

The more than $1.1 billion in recoveries to date include direct payments of more than $812 million to 113,559 consumers and $339 million of funds identified for “escheatment.” Escheated payments represent situations where beneficiaries or heirs cannot immediately be found. The unclaimed money is transferred to the state for safekeeping until heirs step forward to claim the funds. In New York, the $386 million in recoveries include more than $241 million in direct payments to 25,843 consumers and $145 million in funds identified for escheatment.

As a result of this investigation, the Cuomo Administration launched a free online Lost Policy Finder,www.NYPolicyFinder.com, which was developed in partnership with the insurance industry, to help New Yorkers locate lost or misplaced life insurance policies and annuity contracts.

NY’s Superintendent of Financial Services, Benjamin M. Lawsky said, “We continue to urge consumers to check our website at www.NYPolicyFinder.com to see if they may be entitled to unpaid funds. Your family may be in line for a sizable life insurance payment and not even know it. We want to make sure we do everything we can so that consumers receive the unpaid benefits for which they’re eligible.”

Recent payments to New York beneficiaries include:
· $171,177 paid to a Staten Island individual named as the beneficiary on a policy held by an individual who died in 2001; $99,931 paid to an individual in Bayside, Long Island who was the beneficiary of an annuitant who died in 2008; $406,598 to a Montauk beneficiary on an individual life insurance policy where the insured died in 2003; and $97,847 paid to a beneficiary in the Town of LeRoy in Genesee County who was named in an annuity owned by an individual who died in 2009.

To view a copy of the report on this investigation, go to:http://www.governor.ny.gov/assets/documents/finalunclaimedlifeinsurancebenefitsinvestigationreport.pdf.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY (July 16, 2013)) — Training for Election Inspectors will be conducted by the Sullivan County Board of Elections on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – July 30, 31 and August 1st.

The paid training classes are approximately 2 and ½ hours long with the option of attending either a morning or afternoon session. Passing the final (multiple choice) exam entitles qualified individuals to work at the polls on Primary and General Election days at the rate of $12 per hour.

Poll workers must be at least 18 years of age and registered to vote in Sullivan County.

While all poll workers must be able to read and write English, the Board of Elections is in particular need of individuals who are also fluent in written and spoken Spanish.

For additional information or to register for an inspector training class please call the Sullivan County Board of Elections at 845-807-0400, Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

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ROCK HILL, NY (July 15, 2013) – The Rock Hill Business and Community Association invites you to join them for the 1^st Annual Rock Hill Summer Concert Series, held every Wednesday evening during the months of July and August from 6:30 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. at 223 Rock Hill Drive (location for the Rock Hill Farmers’ Market).

Join your neighbor, friends and family for live music outside on the grass by a different local band each Wednesday evening. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring your chairs and/or blankets.

Sponsored by: Affordable Auto, Al & Barbara Silvestri, Alan Schantz Agency, Angelo’s Kitchen, Black Bear Fuel Oil, Captain Cook Hot Dogs, Dr. Scott Rosa, Dutch’s Tavern, Holiday Mountain Fun Park, Hudson Valley Realty, Irwin Siegel Agency, Jerry & Gail D’Agostino, Flowers By Miss Abigail, Gallery of the Lakes, Peace Love & Ice Cream, Rieber Realty, Rock Hill Pharmacy, Steve’s Music Center, Thompson Sanitation, Rock Hill Liquors, Rock Hill Trading Post and the Rock Hill Diner.

The schedule is as follows:

7/17/2013 – The Ponytails

7/24/2013 – Lee Delray

7/31/2013 – Donna Singer

8/7/2013 – Jazzmosis

8/14/2013 – FBG

8/21/2013 – Cathy Paty

8/28/2013 – TBD

For more information, check out the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/RockHillSummerConcertSeries.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 13, 2013) – Sullivan County is holding an online vehicle and equipment auction which began on Monday July 8 and will end on Wednesday July 24.

This is strictly an online auction; no persons will be in attendance. All of the items may be viewed at www.AARauction.com; registration and bidding is available at www.AARbids.com.

The above website address includes a complete inventory list with photos, all viewing times, and other pertinent information relating to the auction. Please note that a 15% buyer’s premium will be added to the final bid, and only guaranteed funds will be accepted.

Items may be viewed and inspected on July 16 and 17 by appointment only. Please contact Bill McKerrell, Sullivan County Division of Public Works, to schedule an appointment at 845-807-0304. Items will be available for pick-up on August 6 and 7 by appointment.

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NEW YORK STATE (July 12, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that 486 drivers had been ticketed by State Police for distracted during the July 4 weekend. The holiday weekend involved heightened enforcement of traffic laws by state police in both marked and unmarked patrol vehicles

“Last week, I signed a law to institute tougher penalties for texting while driving and starting this past July 4^th weekend, the State Police is now using new tools and tactics to enforce that law,” Governor Cuomo said. “I am hopeful that every driver who got a ticket for looking at their phone instead of the road gets the message that this reckless behavior won’t be tolerated. Getting a ticket teaches young drivers this lesson the easy way – no parent should have to experience the hard way.”

Although the risks of texting-while-driving are well documented, the problem remains widespread on roadways in New York State and across the nation. The number of accidents in the U.S. caused by cellphone use has tripled over the past seven years. In New York State alone there was a 143% increase in cellphone-related accidents between 2005 and 2011 – by comparison, alcohol-related crashes actually decreased by 18% over the same period. This epidemic is also particularly acute for younger drivers. Among teenagers, 43% readily admit to texting behind the wheel.

In order to combat this dangerous habit the Governor has both strengthened New York’s distracted driving laws and increased enforcement by state law enforcement officials. A bill signed by the Governor earlier this month instituted new license suspension periods for drivers with probationary and junior licenses who text and drive. Legislation signed by the Governor in 2011 also made using a handheld electronic device a primary offense, which gave law enforcement officials the power to stop motorists solely for texting. New York State now has some of the nation’s toughest laws against distracted driving – for a state-by-state comparison of cellphone laws, go to: http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html.

In addition to reforming New York’s distracted driving laws, Governor Cuomo has also directed the Department of Motor Vehicles to strengthen penalties for distracted driving by raising the number of points issued against a driver’s license. Since the Governor took office the points issued for distracted driving have increased from two to five.

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NEW YORK STATE (July 12, 2013) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today proposed revised regulations to further reduce harmful power plant emissions, which are a major contributor to global climate change, fulfilling a commitment made in his State of the State address earlier this year. The proposed regulations lower the emissions cap under the nine-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), and will serve as a national model for reducing harmful emissions from power plants.

“In the last several years New Yorkers have faced more natural weather disasters than our State has faced in decades, making clear the consequences of ignoring global warming,” Governor Cuomo said. “The consequences of ignoring our changing climate are undeniable. From Hurricane Irene to Superstorm Sandy, these experiences have provided vivid reminders of the dangers of our changing climate and the need for immediate action. RGGI serves as a national model for combating climate change and proves that it is possible to significantly reduce greenhouse gas pollution while promoting job growth and a vibrant economy. With the goal of lowering the emissions cap, New York is taking a decisive step to reduce pollution and better protect the environment.”

RGGI was the nation’s first program to use an innovative market-based mechanism to cap and cost-effectively reduce the outflow of carbon dioxide that causes climate change. Under the program, emission allowances are sold at auctions and the proceeds are reinvested in projects that support clean energy technologies and greater energy efficiency, and help lower consumer energy bills while driving further reductions in greenhouse gas pollution.

From 2005 to 2012, the region saw a 40 percent decline in greenhouse gas pollution from power plants. The proposed revised regulations would lock in that reduction by lowering the regional cap from 165 million tons of CO2 to 91 million tons of CO2, which is more closely aligned with current emissions levels. To achieve further pollution reductions, the cap would decline an additional 2.5 percent annually through 2020, and additional adjustments will account for unused allowances that are still in the marketplace. The cumulative regional effect of the lower cap is an estimated reduction of 86 million tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to taking over 16 million cars off the road for one year.

RGGI is also demonstrating how an innovative cap-and-invest program can yield substantial economic and consumer benefits. An independent economic analysis has found that New York’s investment of its first three years of auction proceeds (2009-2011) is creating jobs, saving $200 million on customer energy bills and adding $326 million to the New York economy. Under the revised regulations, New York is projected to invest up to $1.5 billion in RGGI proceeds through 2020, resulting in estimated macroeconomic benefits of an additional $5.8 billion in Gross State Product and nearly 3,000 additional jobs.

These rule modifications are the result of a two-year program review by the nine RGGI states, based on electricity system analyses and macroeconomic modeling, as well as extensive dialogue with stakeholders.

The proposed regulations have been submitted by the State Department of Environmental Conservation, and have been published in the State Register and Environmental Notice Bulletin on July 10. There will be a 60-day public comment period on the proposed regulations.

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NEW YORK STATE (July 10, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that New York State has been selected as one of four states across the country to participate in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Greek Yogurt Pilot Program within the National School Lunch Program for the 2013-14 school year.

In March 2013, the Cuomo Administration sent a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack about the program, and the Governor’s Office in Washington, D.C. maintained a continual dialogue with USDA staff over the last five months to ensure New York, the top yogurt producing state in the nation, was selected for the pilot program.

As a result of this decision, USDA is now seeking bidders to supply 4-ounce and 24-ounce containers of Greek yogurt to schools across New York.

“It is fitting that New York – the largest producer of yogurt in the nation – has been selected to participate in this national school lunch pilot program,” Governor Cuomo said. “It is a win-win for the state, exposing our students to a nutritional product and expanding the marketplace for Greek yogurt producers and suppliers in New York State. This is a great opportunity to promote New York-made products and encourage healthy eating in our communities.”

In January, USDA announced that it would begin a pilot program to test the cost-effectiveness of including Greek yogurt in school meal programs. Greek yogurt offers higher nutritional benefits than traditional yogurt with less sugar, carbohydrates, sodium and lactose as well as an increase in protein per ounce.

Arizona, Idaho and Tennessee will join New York in this first-ever pilot program.
New York State is the Yogurt Capital of the Nation, with yogurt processors producing 692 million pounds of yogurt in 2012 compared to 587 million pounds of yogurt in California. In 2011, California produced 627 million pounds of yogurt, compared to 554 million pounds here in New York State. New York State is also the fourth largest milk producing state in the country, producing 13.2 billion pounds of milk in 2012.

State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine said, “If it’s good for New York yogurt, it’s great for New York agriculture. This announcement is a tremendous example of how Governor Cuomo’s pro-growth policies are paying huge dividends for the state’s yogurt and agriculture industries.”

Companies interested in applying for this pilot program can find more information at this link

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LIBERTY, NY (July 9, 2013) — In celebration of its 100 years of serving the residents of Sullivan County, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County will launch its Centennial Campaign on Friday, July 12.

The public is invited to attend this anniversary kick-off and to share old CCE-inspired local photos and stories with good company. The event will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty, NY.

“This is going to be the best celebration that you will attend in the first part of the summer, as we celebrate 100 years of living history that is the spirit of Sullivan County,” said Joan Howard, CCE Board President.

Attendees will enjoy entertainment by a local musician, youth performances, speakers, door prizes, and light, local fare by Natural Contents. Refreshments are sponsored by Cornell Alumni: Michael Davidoff, Les Kristt, Marty Miller, John Sundholm and Linda Tintle.

Event proceeds will go towards capital expenses, scholarships and new programming to further develop the CCE site sustainably and as a teaching center that will benefit community members in and around Sullivan County.

“Cornell is celebrating its 100 years with the families of the agricultural farms in Sullivan County,” shared Earl Meyers, CCE Board Vice President and long-time Sullivan County farmer. “Our ancestors were all part of it and hopefully our future generations will be part of it too.”

Questions or registrations should be directed to the CCE office by calling 845-292-6180 or by e-mail at sullivan@cornell.edu.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 8, 2013) – The Sullivan County Visitors Association has announced that spending by visitors to Sullivan County grew another 4.3 percent in 2012 to $364.3 million.

In fact, Sullivan County travelers increased their spending across all sectors (lodging, food service, transportation, retail & service stations, and recreation) in 2012, with the largest increase – 16.55 percent – seen in recreation spending. A close second was transportation, with an increase of 14.47 percent. The vast majority of total monies spent, however, was, predictably, in second homes and lodging.

The 2012 findings were recently released in a report by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company providing analyses of the tourism sector.

“Of course, we’d always like the numbers to be higher, but I am still very pleased with our continued growth in the tourism industry,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, president and CEO of the SCVA. “We are in a very difficult economic climate, so the revenue produced by the continued promotion of our many tourism assets offers myriad benefits to our local residents and businesses.”

Sullivan County tourism generated $44.2 million in state and local taxes in 2012, an increase of 1.5 percent over 2011. Total state and local tax proceeds saved Sullivan County households an average of $1,502 in tax burden, according to the report.

The tourism sector supported 17.6 percent of all Sullivan County employment, both directly and indirectly, last year. The nearly 4,400 jobs sustained by traveler activity span every sector of the economy, either directly or indirectly. Tourism-generated income reached $469.3 million in 2012, making up 16.1 percent of Sullivan County’s labor income.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 7, 2013) – Sheriff Mike Schiff and Chief Harold Smith, Jr. congratulate three new deputies who recently graduated the Dutchess County Corrections Academy.

Pictured (l-r) are: Chief Smith, Deputy Steven Matis, Deputy Marilee Smith, Deputy Kellie McMahon and Sheriff Schiff. All three recruits are assigned to the Sheriff’s Jail Division.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (Saturday, July 6, 2013) – The 18^th Annual Sullivan County Architectural Tour and the 12th Annual Catskills Preservation/History Conference will take place on Saturday, July 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Tour will take place on Saturday, July 13 from 9:00am -12:00noon, and the Preservation/History Conference will immediately follow it from 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. Both the Conference and the Tour will explore the History, the Architecture, and the future of the great Catskills resorts.

The Architectural Tour will start at the Liberty Museum & Arts Center and will travel to several Catskills resorts, to talk about their history and architecture and will feature Sullivan County Historian and author John Conway, author Ross Padluck and architect Robert Dadras.

The Conference topic will be “The Great Catskills Resorts.”  Speakers will include: John Conway, Ross Padluck, Robert Dadras, journalist and author Barry Lewis, photographer Marisa Scheinfeld, and planner Alan Sorensen. A panel discussion on the “A Future for the Great Resorts” with conference presenters will follow the individual presentations at 6:00 p.m.

An Exhibition at The Liberty Museum and Arts Center entitled “The Great Catskills Resorts, Photos and Artifacts from the Ross Padluck Resort Collection” will run from Thursday, July 4 to Sunday, September 29. The reception for the exhibit will also be on Saturday, July 13, at 7:00 p.m.

A Book Signing and talk for Mr. Padluck’s just published book on the architecture of the Catskills hotels entitled “Catskills Resorts, the lost architecture of paradise” will take place at 6:30 p.m.

Cost is $20.00 for the Conference Registration, $25.00 for the Architectural Tour and Tour Reception; or $40.00 for both. Free for all Liberty Museum & Arts Center members.

There is no charge for the Book Signing and Exhibit Reception starting at 6:30 p.m.

The Liberty Museum & Arts Center is located at 46 S. Main Street, Liberty, NY. Call 845-292-2394 or go to LibertyMuseum.com for more information.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR (July 5, 2013) – On July 6 (raindate 7/7), from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Livingston Manor’s ArtWalk/ChalkWalk will be back with over 25+ artists, and works ranging from watercolor, acrylics and oils to mixed media and photography. And this year, there will be artisans with crafts on display as well.

You’ll see tents from WaterWheel Junction to Pearl Street and Renaissance Park; with more art on display at the following locations: Wildlife Gift has watercolorist Bob Lee, The Plunk Shop has Claire Coleman’s own exhibit along with the Outsider’s Studio and Catskill Art Society has its Member’s Show plus a demonstrating potter, Jesse Spaethe (11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.). RM Farm Realty will host the work of James Karpowicz,

LM Library will display illustrations by Lindsay George Barrett with a reading at Noon and the Ambulance Corps will have Ramona Jan’s puppetry at 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. Jeff Bank will have two photographers stationed outside, Stephen Davis and James Carney, and Rafael Weinstein will also be demonstrating his art alfresco, as many of the other artists will.

Foodies can enjoy local fare; and to keep visitors on track, maps will be handed out and posted in store windows alongside artwork from participating artists. Directions and other info for the Manor – along with a sneak peek at all of the participants – will be on website www.livingstonmanor.org by July 1.

ChalkWalk will return for kids who want to become a “Livingston Manor Artist for the Day” with certificates for all and selected creations to be shown in the YouTube 2013 LM Artwalk/ChalkWalk video.

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All photos © Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 4, 2013) – On this July 4th, while this online newspaper is coincidentally celebrating its 4th anniversary year, the staff and columnists of The Catskill Chronicle delight in taking this opportunity to wish you a happy Independence Day.

Along with our thanks for your loyalty, we wish peace and prosperity in all things.

Happy 4th of July from Grayce Goin (Twice Divorced), Barry Plaxen (reviewer), J.A. Di Bello (reviewer), Mort Malkin (Gadfly), Jude Waterston (Tales from the Scrawny Gourmet), Janet Waterston (Elder Berries), and Carol Montana (editor).

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Photos by Carol Montana

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (July 2, 2013) – In the “better late than never” category, we’d like to share our photos from the 2013 Trout Parade with you. A link to see more (or to purchase prints) is provided at the bottom of this article.

Enjoy!

To see more of the 205 photos shot that day, or to purchase prints from the 2013 Trout Parade, visit the Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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SULLIVAN & DELAWARE COUNTY, NY (July 2, 2013) – …Strong Thunderstorm Will Affect Northwestern Sullivan And Southeastern Delaware Counties…

At 5:42 PM EDT…National Weather Service Doppler Radar Indicated A Strong Thunderstorm Capable Of Producing Small Hail…Strong Gusty Winds…And Very Heavy Rain. 

This Storm Was Located Near Roscoe… And Moving Northeast At 35 Mph.

* The Strong Thunderstorm Will Be Near… Waneta Lake And Joscelyn At 5:55 PM EDT… Lewbeach And Debruce At 6:00 PM EDT… Mongaup Pond Campground At 6:05 PM EDT… Big Pond Campsite And Little Pond Campground At 6:10 PM EDT… Dunraven At 615 PM EDT… Margaretville At 6:20 PM EDT… Arkville And Halcottsville At 6:25 PM EDT… Fleischmanns At 6:30 PM EDT…

This Storm Has The Potential To Become Severe And Produce Large Hail And/Or Damaging Winds.

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

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NEW YORK STATE AND NORTHEASTERN PA (July 2, 2013) (EXTENSION – time) by NWS Binghamton

…Flash Flood Watch Now In Effect Through Late Tonight…

The Flash Flood Watch Is Now In Effect For Portions Of New York And Northeast Pennsylvania…Including The Following Counties: In New York: Broome…Chenango… Cortland…Delaware…Madison…Northern Oneida…Otsego… Southern Oneida…Sullivan And Tioga.

In Northeast Pennsylvania…Bradford…Lackawanna…Luzerne…Northern Wayne…Pike…Southern Wayne…Susquehanna And Wyoming. *

Through Late Tonight * Showers And Scattered Thunderstorms Will Develop Once Again This Afternoon And Evening.

The Moist Atmosphere Will Allow The Heaviest Showers To Yield Rainfall Rates In Excess Of One Inch Per Hour.

Rainfall Totals Of 2 Inches Or More Will Likely Result In Flash Flooding.

* With The Ground Already Very Wet From The Multiple Recent Rains… Additional Heavy Rainfall Could Cause Localized Flash Flooding Of Creeks…Streams…And Urban And Low Lying Areas.

Rivers That Are Already Running High Could Also Go Above Flood Stage, And Indeed A Few Already Have.

A Flash Flood Watch Means That Conditions May Develop That Lead To Flash Flooding. Flash Flooding Is A Very Dangerous Situation.

You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flash Flood Warnings Be Issued.

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Photos by Carol Montana

LIBERTY, NY (July 2, 2013) – The Town of Liberty will hold its 20th Annual Liberty Festival, celebrating Liberty on the 4th of July this Thursday from 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Main Street.

The schedule of events are as follows:

• 10:30 am – Classic Car Show
• 10:35 am – Tribute to Walter Keller, Liberty’s Poet Laureate
• 11:00 am – Carl Richards Band with Mr. Phil and Mark Bloat & Company on the Main Stage
• 11:00 am – Gary Cormier Instrumentals on South Main St.
• 12:05 pm – Parade Kicks off
• 12:30 pm until 4 pm – More Carl Richards Band
• 1:30 pm until 4pm – Whiskey Bent on South Main St.

Highlights:

Get your frustrations out…take a shot at the Dunking Booth.

Pamela Murphy and the Hudson Valley Fine Arts Singers

The Annual Classic Car Show
South Main Street begins 10:30 a.m. Sponsored by Immaculate Concepts. For info contact Joel at 845-295-0300.

Art-Picnic for all ages. Find your creative side with Paulina in front of Main St. Stage from 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Plus food, vendors and fun for the whole family.

Sponsored by Greater Liberty Chamber of Commerce

For Info Call: 845-292-9797
www.LibertyNYChamber.com or e-mail:
info@LibertyNYChamber.com

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MONTICELLO, NY (July 1, 2013) — Catskill Mountainkeeper, Sullivan County Public Health Services, Rural Health Network (RHN), and Cornell Cooperative Extension are kicking off its second year of a successful pilot project on Monday, July 1, in an effort to increase access to healthy foods for low income county residents.

The project’s goal is to build and sustain momentum for an annual Farmers Market in Monticello that accepts Farmers Market Coupons issued during the summer and fall months to WIC eligible families, and to seniors through the Office for the Aging.

The Farmers Market will be held every other Monday throughout the summer from July 1 through October 28 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Village of Monticello next to the Ted Stroeble Center on 2 Jefferson Street.

Permission has been granted by the Village of Monticello to allow the FMNP-approved farmers to set up their tents and produce to accept these coupons. The farmers will be selling fruits and vegetables and assorted goods.

Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Eat Smart NY staff will be available to provide recipes and taste tests to encourage families to try a new fruit or vegetable they may not be familiar with, and to promote healthy eating.

The market is open to the general public and will be managed by Catskill Mountainkeeper.

This collaborative project is one of the many efforts of the County’s RHN Wellness Committee to improve the health status of its residents.

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Niche LGBT segment accounts for $70 billion in tourism spending in U.S. every year

NEW YORK STATE (June 30, 2013) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the launch of a new “I Love NY LGBT” website, a one-stop tourism portal into all that New York State has to offer LGBT travelers. The website’s launch comes on the heels of the Governor’s pledge to grow tourism and jobs in New York State, including the launch of a new “I Love NY LGBT” initiative. The niche LGBT tourism segment accounts for approximately $70 billion in tourism spending in the U.S. every year.

The new website provides information and suggestions to help LGBT travelers plan their New York vacations. The campaign is represented by the iconic I LOVE NY logo with a rainbow colored heart.

“As part of our efforts to boost the tourism industry in New York, this pride month, we are launching the “I Love NY LGBT” website to highlight all of what the state has to offer to the LGBT community,” Governor Cuomo said. “New York State has a tremendous variety of ‘must see’ destinations for all travelers of different interests – whether they are wine connoisseurs, history buffs or outdoor adventurers. The website will be an important tool to help attract visitors, encourage spending in our communities and create jobs in the industry. New York has a proud history of welcoming the LGBT community, and whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a destination wedding, I encourage all to come explore the Empire State.”

Last month, Governor Cuomo invited hundreds of tourism experts to Albany to discuss new ways to bring tourists to every corner of the state. At the conclusion of the Summit, the Governor Cuomo announced the launch of New York’s largest tourism campaign in decades, committing nearly $60 million to grow New York industries, create jobs and attract even more visitors to the Empire State. Marketing New York State to the LGBT community was a part of the Governor’s commitment to further growing the job-creating, revenue-producing tourism industry.

“The LGBT market is of such immense value to the tourism industry, so New York is to be commended for launching this cutting-edge niche tourism initiative,” said Cristyne Nicholas, Chair of the New York State Tourism Advisory Council and CEO of Nicholas & Lence Communications, a New York based strategic communications firm. “Because so much of LGBT marketing can be done through free or low-cost avenues, the cost/benefit ratio on this project is particularly attractive, allowing for a big bang for the buck.”

The new website features topic pages covering areas such as Arts & Culture, History, Food & Drink, Shopping, Relaxation, Family Fun, Outdoor Adventure and Nightlife. There are regional travel highlights, lists of local LGBT events and resources, and a wedding guide providing tools for same-sex couples to plan a wedding in New York State.

The larger I LOVE NY LGBT tourism initiative will also be well-represented at New York City’s Pride Parade this Sunday, June 30th, with marchers donning I LOVE NY rainbow heart t-shirts. There will be promotional giveaways and a booth at the PRIDE Festival to provide additional information about locations to visit.

For more information on LGBT travel, visit New York State’s new iloveny.com/lgbt.

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NEW YORK STATE (June 29, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently highlighted the availability of free summer meal sites that will provide children from low-income households with healthy, nutritious meals in communities across New York when school is out.

State agencies and private and non-profit partners are taking steps to raise families’ awareness of the summer meal sites, which play a vital role in helping prevent hunger during the summer months.

"With schools across the state letting out for the summer, tens of thousands of low-income children will be without access to the free and reduced price meals they count on during the school year," Governor Cuomo said. “No child should ever go hungry, and the reality is that for our low-income students the summer vacation can often bring unnecessary hardship. The Summer Food Service Program can help to fill this gap. By partnering with private and non-profit organizations this program will work to ensure that children return to school in the fall fed, healthy and ready to learn."

The federally-funded Summer Food Service Program, which is administered by the New York State Education Department, offers free, nutritious meals and snacks to children 18 years old and younger from low-income households, as well as disabled adults over age 18 enrolled in school programs, during summer recess. Schools, local governments and nonprofit organizations receive funding to provide up to two meals a day during the summer to eligible children.
More than 350,000 children a day will receive meals through the program this summer.

The Education Department has set up a website, www.nysummermeals.com, which includes an interactive map with information on all of the summer meal sites in New York State. The map and listing of locations will be continually updated until the start of the program in late June.

The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is continuing its outreach efforts to recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and Temporary Assistance benefits to notify them of the availability of free summer meals.

“Children from low-income households are often at risk of not having enough healthy food to eat during the summer, when schools are closed and they do not have access to free and reduced price school meals,” said OTDA Commissioner Kristin M. Proud. “Summer meals sites in communities throughout the State offer free, nutritious food, often in conjunction with activities to engage the children’s minds and bodies, to make sure they remain healthy, active and continue to develop socially and physically during summer recess.”
The State Department of Health has added information about the Summer Food Service Program to the New York State Growing Up Healthy Hotline, which can be reached by calling 1-800-522-5006.

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LIBERTY, NY (June 28, 2013) – Summer is an exciting time for children to enjoy playtime with friends, time at summer camp, a family vacation, or afternoons at the pool. But for many children, summer can also mean hunger. Just as learning  does not end when school lets out, neither does a child’s need for good nutrition.

Beginning on July 8, children age 18 and younger, who resides in the Liberty School District, are welcome to visit the Liberty Elementary School cafeteria each weekday for lunch. There is no charge for this meal and there are no income requirements or registration required. Meals will be served from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday until August 16.

The program is being offered as a part of the Summer Food Service Program, a federal program sponsored by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service. “We are really excited to be able to offer this program,” said Liberty Superintendent Dr. William Silver. “Food insecurity is a very real problem in our community, and hopefully this program will help fill some of the nutrition gaps that some children may experience.”

If you need further information please call Dara Smith at 845)-292-5400, ext. 2018 or email at dara.smith@scboces.org or visit the school website at www.libertyk12.org

To recap: Liberty CSD Summer Food site:
Where: Liberty Elementary School Cafeteria
When: Monday through Friday
Date: July 8 through August 16, 2013
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

About the National Summer Food Service Program:

http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/summer

Find Free Summer Meals for Children in Your Community: Call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (en Espanol) and a live operator will tell you where the closest sites serving free, nutritious summer meals are located. Or visit www.whyhunger.org/findfood 

to locate sites using an online map.

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Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Otsego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Yates Counties

…Flash Flood Watch In Effect From Thursday Afternoon Through Friday Afternoon…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A * Flash Flood Watch For Portions Of New York And Northeast Pennsylvania… Including The Following Counties…

In New York…Broome…Chemung…Chenango…Cortland…Delaware… Madison…Northern Oneida…Onondaga…Otsego…Schuyler… Seneca…Southern Cayuga…Southern Oneida…Steuben… Sullivan…Tioga…Tompkins And Yates.

In Northeast Pennsylvania…Bradford…Lackawanna…Luzerne…Northern Wayne…Pike…Southern Wayne….Susquehanna And Wyoming. *

From Thursday Afternoon Through Friday Afternoon. * Showers And Thunderstorms Are Expected To Develop Thursday Afternoon…Then Become Widespread Over The Region Thursday Evening…And Into The Overnight Period.

Some Of These Showers And Storms Will Produce Torrential Rainfall. In Locations Where Heavier Downpours Persist The Longest…Localized Rainfall Amounts Of 3 Inches Or Greater Are Possible. * The Primary Impacts Are Expected To Be Localized Flash Flooding…Along Smaller Creeks And Streams…And Perhaps More Urbanized Areas. Although Significant Rises Are Anticipated Along The Main Stem Rivers…They Are Expected To Stay Mostly Within Bankfull Limits. Faster Response Headwater Points May Have To Be Watched More Closely…As They Tend To Rise More Rapidly.

A Flash Flood Watch Means That Conditions May Develop That Lead To Flash Flooding. Flash Flooding Is A Very Dangerous Situation. You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flash Flood Warnings Be Issued.

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JEFFERSONVILLE, NY, (June 26, 2013) – Ten new members have been named to the Radio Catskill – WJFF Board of Trustees. They are joining the board as a result of two elections finalized at the annual meeting of the public radio station on June 19.

Eight of the new members were selected through an open-to-the community nomination process which took place over the past six weeks. Those trustees are Tasa Faronii Butler, Barbara Demarest, Mike Fisher, Kurt Knuth, Midge Maroni, Patricia Pomeroy, Joel Sanchez, and Martin Springhetti.

Two of the members were elected through the station’s volunteer election process in which the station’s volunteers elect up to three members of the board of trustees. Those new trustees are Kevin Gref and Steve Harris.

The election process was put into place after 8 of 9 Radio Catskill board members resigned in April following criticism that the station had become disconnected from the larger community. Sonja Hedlund, a longtime volunteer and program host, led an effort, as the remaining trustee, to rebuild the board. A six-member nominating group assisted in the process. Twenty people in the listening area submitted applications to serve on the board of trustees or on a related committee.

Hedlund said she is particularly pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response to the open call for nominations and to the overall transparency of the process.

“Never before has WJFF Radio had such an open process to elect members to the Board of Trustees,” said Hedlund. “There will now be 12 New York and Pennsylvania residents serving on the board. You will find in this group a great diversity in skills, background, and ethnicity, along with a common commitment to making ours the very best grassroots station by a dam site!”

New board members will begin their terms of office in July. Hedlund will remain on the board as will John Bachman, who had served as an interim board member.

The Radio Catskill – WJFF board of trustees meets monthly; meetings are open to the public and are announced on the air as well as on the station’s website, wjffradio.org. WJFF is a non-commercial broadcaster run by a professional staff of three along with some 80 volunteers. An NPR affiliate, WJFF is found at 90.5 FM and at 94.5 FM and is the nation’s only hydro-powered radio station. Its main studios are located adjacent to the dam at Lake Jefferson in Jeffersonville, NY.

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