The Catskill Chronicle

WASHINGTON, DC & NEW YORK STATE (June 25, 2013) – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a key part of the Voting Rights Act:

“The Voting Rights Act has been a cornerstone of ensuring the rights won in the Civil Rights movement continue to stand strong today. The Supreme Court’s ruling is a significant setback that will put Congress to the test of whether we can move quickly and without partisanship. I urge my colleagues to meet that test. 

“We must be clear — The Voting Rights Act is not ancient history. Just last year alone, Section 5 helped prevent discrimination across the country – on issues ranging from state ID’s to redistricting and reducing early voting. Voting is a sacred right and ensuring that every vote counts is a cornerstone of our democracy that must be embraced by both sides of the aisle.

“The last time Congress reauthorized the Voting Rights Act in 2006, it was passed for the fourth time with sweeping bipartisan majorities in both houses of Congress. We must come together once again to ensure that every American has the fundamental right to vote regardless of which community they live in.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Statement from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Today’s decision by the United States Supreme Court to strike down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act is deeply troubling. Here in New York, upholding the voting rights of all people, regardless of race or ethnicity, is paramount to our democracy. We must double down on efforts to ensure that the voices of all voters can be heard at the voting booth. I urge Congress to take immediate steps to amend Section 4, which will prevent voter disenfranchisement and ensure fair elections.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 24, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced more than $17 million in outdoor recreation improvement projects will begin this summer. The projects will continue to improve recreation areas located on public lands, including campgrounds, day use areas, trails and boat launches.

“Improving the infrastructure of New York’s outdoor recreation hot spots will help spur economic development and job creation, boost tourism and strengthen regional economies,” Governor Cuomo said. “New York’s vast network of camping, hiking, fishing and boating recreation sites provide millions of tourists with incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures at every turn. This funding, an important component of our New York Works program, will help upgrade and expand recreation prospects across the state and allow even more visitors to take advantage of the tremendous natural resources New York has to offer.”

State lands support New York’s vibrant, $54 billion outdoor recreation and tourism industries, which are a key component of many regional economies. The recreation projects, funded from NY Works II and the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), are designed to benefit communities that host the State’s vast network of outdoor recreation facilities, including those in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves, State forests, and wildlife management areas. Last year, more than 10 million people visited State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) lands and facilities.

Under New York Works II, $12 million will fund 27 projects across the State to develop, renovate or reconstruct boat launches; improve trails and public access, including work related to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance; and upgrade infrastructure such as roads, bridges, utilities and buildings. In addition, 83 projects totaling $5 million will use EPF awards for projects that include enhanced fishing and boating access, educational camp and center improvements, new kiosks, and upgrades to campgrounds, day use areas, roads and parking areas.

The improvements in Sullivan County are:

Mongaup Pond Campground
Recycle Building & Roof Repair, install backup generator
Sullivan Co. – $140,000

Beaverkill Campground
Water System Improvements
Sullivan Co. – $20,000

Camp Debruce
Camp Debruce DOH Required & other Improvements
Sullivan Co. – $16,085

Camp Debruce Building Improvements
LODGE: replace inefficient fluorescent lights; Purchase and install AC in First Aid Building; Purchase and install fans in camper cabins; Purchase and install operable windows with screens in two director’s cabins
Sullivan Co. – $20,000

Lower Hudson Valley
Region 3 Boat Docks
Region 3 Boat Docks – Various
Various areas – $40,000

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 23, 2013) -– The annual commemoration of the Battle of Minisink, will take place this year at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 20 at the Battleground Park in Minisink Ford, just off Route 97, five miles north of Barryville.

The Battle of Minisink took place on July 22, 1779. It was the only Revolutionary War battle fought in what was to become Sullivan County, and is generally regarded as one of the deadliest battles of the entire war. Residents of the Upper Delaware Valley fought on both sides in the battle, which featured three militia contigents against a force of Mohawks, Senecas and Tories under the command of the Mohawk Chief and British Army Colonel Joseph Brant.

A full slate of activities are scheduled for the day, including a roundtable discussion at 2:00 p.m. which will feature the most knowledgeable experts on the history of the battle in the country. There are also guided tours of the battleground scheduled and much more, including the dedication of the Lt. Col. Benjamin Tusten Memorial Pavilion.

Peter Osborne, well known historian and co-author of the most recent book on the battle, “So Many Brave Men,” will deliver the keynote address, “A Hero Among Many Heroes: Lt. Col. Benjamin Tusten, MD.”

Sullivan County Historian John Conway will serve as Master of Ceremonies, and costumed interpreters from Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History will read the names of the fallen. Several chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be represented, as will the Sullivan County Historical Society.

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (June 22, 2013) – Lindsay Barrett George, children’s picture book author and illustrator, will be the featured guest at the Livingston Manor Library during Artwalk Chalkwalk, the annual street celebration of art in Livingston Manor, taking place on Saturday, July 6 on Livingston Manor’s Main Street.

Children of all ages are welcome to storytime with Lindsay Barrett George from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m.

Many people will recall Lindsay’s books including “Beaver at Long Pond” (1988). Her newest picture books include “Alfred Digs,” “Maggie’s Ball” and “That Pup.”

Those who were at Lindsay’s art workshop for children held in the library in the summer of 2010 will remember the enthusiasm she brings to her work and the magic with which she connects to children. To learn more about Lindsay Barrett George, go to http://www.lindsaybarrettgeorge.com/.

The library is located at 92 Main Street across from the firehouse. For more information call 439-5440.

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Photo by Carol Montana

NEW YORK STATE (June 21, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently introduced legislation that will help improve New York State’s ability to coordinate preparation and response for disaster emergencies. The legislation will make technical updates to current emergency laws, allow the State to accept certain gifts and donations to assist with emergencies, and help implement the NY-Text emergency alert system.

“After experiencing three ‘once-in-a-100-year storms’ in the last two years, it is clear that New York must be prepared for the new weather reality we face,” Governor Cuomo said. “Improving our ability to prepare for and respond to any future disaster remains a high priority and this legislation is an important step in our efforts to better protect the public.”

Updating Fire and Other Emergency Laws
The legislation will make technical changes to current law to reflect the consolidation of the Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) into the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). It would authorize the State Fire Administrator to set regulations and rules necessary to implement the state fire mobilization and mutual aid plan. It would also update the law that currently requires a sheriff to notify the Governor by telegram when he or she declares a state of special emergency, to permit such notifications to be made by fax or other electronic methods.

Allowing Acceptance of Gifts for Emergencies
The Governor’s legislation would also allow the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to accept any assistance including gifts of goods or services – but not money – from a public or private source for the purposes of preparing for, responding to, or recovering from a state disaster emergency. To ensure transparency, OEM would maintain a public database of gifts that are accepted, which would include the names of donors and recipients, the type of assistance given, and the value of the assistance.

Implementing the NY-Text Emergency Alert System
Finally, this bill will help implement the NY-Text system by providing immunity from liability to mobile service provider intermediaries that are acting on behalf of the State in sending emergency alert messages. The NY-Text system allows for mass text messages to be sent to all wireless telephones in a chosen area before, during or after an emergency. The legislation will give mobile service provider intermediaries immunity for any consequences resulting from the transmission of or failure to transmit an emergency alert when the provider acted reasonably and in good faith. This removes a barrier to contracting with potential providers as the State puts this alert system in place.
For more information, the proposed legislation is available here (bill memo here).

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LIBERTY, NY­­­­ (June 21, 2013) – Green Door Magazine, a quarterly magazine distributed throughout the Catskills and Hudson Valley in upstate New York, will hold an art exhibition at their new office on Main Street in Liberty.

The Exhibit, which is titled “Change – A World in Motion,” will run through August 25.

Green Door focuses on the benefits of country living in a socially conscious society, and the exhibition is filled with contemporary art and sculpture from many local artists on the effects of our interaction with nature.

“Our goal was to highlight the best statements from our creative community on our ecosystems, particularly the risks of climate change and resource exploitation,” said Akira Ohiso, Editor of Green Door. “The imaginations of these concerned artists and the newly-opened gallery space provided an opportunity for a social statement and fascinating visual expression,” he added.

The exhibit features a selection of some of the best of the Catskills and Hudson Valley’s current working artists, ranging from young, emerging artists to mature, established artists such as: Trey Speegle, Ryan Cronin, Zac Shavrick, Naomi Teppich, Richard J. Kreznar, William Landau, Andrea Brown, Nancy Lee Lew, Steven Erdman, Brian Caiazza, Brandi Merolla, Charles Hadley Blanchard, Greg Frederick and Claudine Luchsinger.

The Hudson Valley has long been a place of intense artistic activity since the middle of the 19th century, when the Hudson River School became a popular new art movement. That tradition continues today with hundreds of artists exploring and re-interpreting the current landscape through paintings, sculpture, mixed media and photography.

The opening event for the gallery exhibition is scheduled for Friday, July 19, at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free.

At the opening, there will be a spontaneous musical performance by the Human Lard Dog. A limited edition “Frack No!” poster by artist Trey Speegle, printed by Echo Letterpress, will be available for sale, with those proceeds going to support Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy. Food for the event will be provided by Natural Contents, and flowers by Earthgirl Flowers.

The gallery is located at 34 S. Main Street, Liberty, NY. For more information, call 845-55-GD-MAG.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 19, 2013) – US Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $213,400 for the Sullivan County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) to launch a satellite Food Distribution Hub Project, providing Sullivan Country farmers an effective distribution line to move their goods to local and regional markets, an effort that is expected to create up to 19 new local jobs. The federal funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program.

In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Senator Gillibrand personally advocated for Sullivan County’s effort to strengthen the local agriculture industry.

“Stores, markets, and restaurants throughout the Hudson Valley-and-beyond should be filled with Sullivan County’s locally-grown products,” said Senator Schumer. “With the Sullivan County Industrial Development Agency leading the way, and the USDA funding behind them, the Food Distribution Hub Project will grow the partnership between local organizations and community farmers, and serve as an economic boost to the region, all while providing delicious, high-quality food.”

“Connecting more of our local farms with local markets is good for business, and good for the health of our families,” said Senator Gillibrand, the first New York Senator to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in four decades and a leading advocate for developing food hubs. “Farms of the Hudson Valley are growing some of the highest quality produce. And when we help these farms reach new markets in the region, we can connect families, businesses and schools with food that’s grown right in our community, and help strengthen the local economy.”

“We are very pleased and excited to receive this Rural Business Enterprise Grant from the USDA to support Sullivan County’s farms and agricultural community,” said Ira Steingart, Chairman of the Sullivan County Industrial Development Agency and Sullivan County Legislator. “The funding will be used to create a local food hub in Sullivan County that will provide much needed marketing support to farms throughout the region. This grant will help boost the economy of Sullivan County.”

“Developing solutions for gaps in our local foods distribution is a critical step which can support our regional food systems and ensure that our farm families can make a living as viable partners in a sustainable economic future,” Executive Director of Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corp., Todd M. Erling said. “HVADC appreciates the collaborative efforts of local businesses, the Sullivan County IDA, Ginsberg’s Foods and the USDA programs in creating long-lasting opportunities to expand the available farm products in the Hudson Valley.”

“We could not be more thrilled with the award of this grant for our local food hub/distribution project in Sullivan County and the Mid-Hudson Region. The idea of providing the pick-up and delivery for our local providers and connecting them directly with end users with the subsequent ability to distribute regionally is a huge win for all,” said Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Scott Samuelson. “The agricultural community is such an important part of our economic future and anything we can do to help our farmers sell and distribute their products is a positive step forward. We want to thank all parties involved that helped make the application such a success and are very grateful to Senator Gillibrand for her always constant support of Sullivan County, our residents and the Mid-Hudson Region.”

The Sullivan County IDA will specifically use the federal funds to launch a satellite Food Distribution Hub Project that will help enable farmers and food producers in the Sullivan-Wawarsing REAP Zone to efficiently access thriving local and regional markets. The IDA will develop a centrally located aggregation and distribution facility to meet demand for Less Than Trailer Load (LTL) freight service, enabling transactions between farmers and wholesale buyers within the county while also opening up local producers to the larger Hudson Valley and New York City markets.

Senator Gillibrand was successful in securing the reauthorization of Rural Economic Area Partnership (REAP) designation for the Sullivan-Wawarsing Zone in the recently-passed Senate Farm Bill. The measure would extend a designation that helps give the region priority access to federal funding from the USDA to help grow the local economy and revitalize rural communities. The current Sullivan-Wawarsing REAP Zone designation expires September 30, 2013. Senator Gillibrand’s measure would extend the designation another five years. After clearing final passage in the Senate, the legislation now awaits passage by the House of Representatives.

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NEW YORK STATE (June 18, 2013) – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther recently announced Assembly passage of the Safe Patient Handling Act. The measure calls for health care facilities to develop a Safe Patient Handling policy – protecting patients, health care workers and, in the long term, reducing costs for health care facilities. 

The bill (A.2180-B), carried by Assemblywoman Gunther, creates a statewide Safe Patient Handling Task Force to develop recommendations for policies in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. Each facility would then create a Safe Patient Handling committee to develop and implement a facility-appropriate policy.     

“This bill has been a long time coming,” said Gunther. “Today, we’ve taken a huge step forward for the nursing profession and improved the delivery of healthcare in New York. Demonstration programs around the state have been extremely successful. In three years, one hospital saw a 76 percent reduction in Worker’s Compensation claims and another decreased lost days due to injury by 95.8 percent.”  

Safe patient handling provides training and, in some cases, can replace manual lifting and moving tasks with assistive devices to properly and safely transfer patients without injury to the patient or the health care worker.

While a safe patient handling program may require an initial capital investment, healthcare facilities were able to quickly recoup their costs through decreased Worker’s Compensation claims, a reduction in staff time to review and act on injury reports, and, ultimately, a decrease in Worker’s Compensation premiums. 

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Photo courtesy of Robert Giard

LIBERTY, NY (June 17, 2013) – The Liberty Museum and Arts Center explores the multi-faceted life and work of the noted historian and Liberty resident, Allan Bérubé on Saturday, July 6 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Bérubé’s journey from a working-class, Franco-American youth growing up in a New Jersey trailer park to an influential historian, public intellectual and MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellowship recipient was marked by a longing to bridge those distances in a search for community. His cherished work as a historian, whether excavating the stories of lesbian women who lived as men in late 19th century San Francisco, revealing the World War II contributions of gay men and women in the award-winning book “Coming Out Under Fire,” helping Senator Ted Kennedy in challenging the ban on gays in the military, or examining the migration of his own family in search of “a usable past,” was partly a paradoxical tool for rooting his own life in a fully-integrated present.

Understanding that uncovering the missing pages in American history, especially as it applied to the lives of gay and lesbian people, was the foundation for any human rights struggle, Bérubé devoted most of his life to this work. “I do my work now in the borderlands between social classes, between the university and the community, between heterosexual and homosexual, between educated speech and down-to-earth talk, between Franco-American and Québécois, between my family and the gay community, between the past and the present,” said Bérubé in his essay, “Intellectual Desire.”

The exhibit follows Bérubé from the post-war years on the family farm in late 1940s Springfield, MA; through his family’s 1950s quest for middle-class respectability living in a Bayonne, NJ trailer park; along the rioting streets of 1968 Chicago where his college roommate was murdered; into the political assertions of 1970s San Francisco’s burgeoning gay community as it confronted right-wing activist Anita Bryant, the assassination of San Francisco Board of Supervisors Member Harvey Milk, and the tragedy of AIDS. It also traces his years as a successful, highly-respected and sought-after author, and finally to a life of kinship, contribution and community-building in Liberty, New York. At the time of his unexpected death in late 2007, Bérubé was working on a history of the “queer, multi-racial, working class” Marine Cooks and Stewards Union.

The exhibit runs from July 4 through August 18 with an opening reception on Saturday, July 6 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The Liberty Museum and Arts Center is located at 46 South Main Street, Liberty, NY 12754. For more information call 845-292-2394 or e-mail at LibertyNYMuseum@yahoo.com. You can also find info at www.LibertyMuseum.com and on Facebook.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 17, 2013) – Issued By:  NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Albany, Broome, Chenango, Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Westchester Counties

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

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MONTICELLO, NY (June 17, 2013) – The 2^nd Annual “Fund Racing for Kids” to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs will take place at the Monticello Motor Club on July 11. VIP guests will experience an evening of high-performance racing while raising funds to support the 3000 youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs in Sullivan and Orange Counties.

In photo at left is Rolling V and Big V Tours’ Nick Vallone at the 2012 Fund Racing for Kids.

VIP tickets are available for this event for $500 each. Guests will enjoy two “Hot Laps” with a professional driver on the MMC track, as well as racing simulators, competitions and other motorsports activities. Guests will also be treated to a three-hour gourmet social event with fellow industry leaders and VIPs, featuring specialty cocktails provided by Prohibition Distillery.

This year’s Steering Committee is co-chaired by R.J. Smith and Chris Masters, and also includes BGC Board member Sean Rieber, Jay Anthony, Chris Rice and Jonathan Rouis.

The funds raised at this event will support Boys and Girls Club programs throughout Sullivan and Orange Counties and includes nutrition, education, life skills, sports and more. The funds will also support scholarships for low-income youth.

Only 50 tickets are available for this exclusive event, call 845-342-8833 to reserve yours today.

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Photos by Carol Montana

WURTSBORO, NY (June 15, 2013) – On Saturday, July 6, Wurtsboro will close Sullivan Street to welcome thousands of visitors to their annual Founder’s Day Street Fair – a day of family fun.

From 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. vendors will be up and down the street selling their arts and crafts, goodies and food.

Children can have their faces painted, go on rides, challenge the rock wall, or visit with Truth Muller for his free Bat Education series.

Bring a lawn chair to enjoy live music from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Midnight Slim kicks off with the Blues, The Bootlegger’s Band brings Soul, The Carl Richards Band – Keep’n Country Strong, The Ponytails take you back to the Fifties and Third Degree East – Classic Rock finale.

Need more music ? O’Toole’s Harley Davidson is hosting the band “ Hot Rod” throughout their Bike Show and Danny’s is hosting Midnight Slim from 2:00 p.m. until … 

At 1:00 p.m. there will be a One Woman Truck Pull, along with a Lumber Jack Carving Demo featuring benches, one of which will be auctioned off.

Rifka, the psychic medium from Rifka’s Curiosity Shop and Bill The “Wizard” from the Crystal Connection will offer psychic readings throughout the day.

This year features the return of the WBOT Wheel Barrel Raffle, fundraiser. A new Wheel Barrel filled with gifts and other surprises that were graciously donated by local merchants, who also welcome you to visit their fine shops on Sullivan Street. All proceeds will help fund the WBOT Scholarship Fund and Founder’s Day expenses.

For more information, please see the website, for additional updates as they occur at www.wurtsboro.org.

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NEW YORK STATE (June 13, 2013) – The New York State Senate recently passed legislation (S.2016) sponsored by State Senator John Bonacic (R/C/I- Mt. Hope), which would require reports made to the State’s Child Abuse Hotline be investigated, when made by mandated reporters such as physicians, social workers, or law enforcement The bill passed the Senate by with unanimous, bi-partisan support.

The legislation was initially prompted after the brutal 1998 murder of 3-year-old Christopher Gardner of Bloomingburg. Before he was killed, a mandated reporter had, according to multiple published reports in the Times Herald Record, called the child abuse hotline claiming the child had been abused, but nobody followed up.

“This bill stands for the simple proposition that when a doctor, social worker or law enforcement official calls the child abuse hotline, and indicates they believe abuse is occurring, somebody in an office somewhere does not decide to overrule that trained expert,” Senator Bonacic said.

After the 1998 murder, groups sprang up around the Hudson Valley to lobby for stronger laws and better protect children. Parents lobbied Albany for the changes, but the Assembly refused to act. In fact, the then Assembly Chairman, according to a 2010 Times Herald-Record article, grossly misunderstood the nature of the mandated reporter system.

Bonacic urged the Assembly to pass the legislation. “When a bill passes the Senate unanimously – with every Democrat and every Republican in agreement, and cannot even get a vote in the Assembly, there is no good excuse. The Assembly should vote on this legislation. It is just the right thing to do,” Bonacic concluded.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 13, 2013) – The Sullivan County Office of Emergency Management (SCOEM) along with the National Weather Service in Binghamton have been monitoring a significant rain event which will impact Sullivan County Thursday into Friday.

Forecasters are predicting between 2-4 inches of rain throughout our area. 

Winds may also be a factor during this period as already saturated ground may easily uproot trees resulting in downed power lines and power interruptions.

Flooding of low lying areas is likely depending on the rate of rainfall. Residents in areas prone to flooding should be on heightened alert and monitor weather conditions closely, being prepared to evacuate early to a safer location if necessary.

Area residents are advised of the following;

– Clean out drainage and low-lying areas of debris and lawn clippings to help ease water runoff

– Elevate any items on ground or basement floors

– Assist elderly neighbors to do the same

– Bring in any loose items outside that could become projectiles

– Charge (and keep charged) cell phones where possible

– DO NOT CALL 911 for power outages! 911 is for life-threatening emergencies only.

– DO NOT drive across flooded roadways

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(June 12, 2013) – Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Schuyler, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins Counties

Headline:  …Flood Watch In Effect From Thursday Morning Through Friday Morning…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Flood Watch For Portions Of New York And Northeast Pennsylvania … Including The Following Counties … In New York … Broome … Chemung … Chenango … Cortland … Delaware … Otsego … Schuyler … Steuben … Sullivan … Tioga And Tompkins.

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

From Thursday Morning Through Friday Morning

Rain Will Overspread The Region Early Thursday Morning, And Become Heavy At Times From Late Morning Through The Evening.

Total Rainfall Amounts Of 1.50 To 2.50 Inches Is Forecast, With Locally Higher Amounts Possible.

Localized Small Stream And Urban Flooding Is Anticipated, Along With Minor River Flooding.

A Flood Watch Means There Is The Potential For Flooding On Small Streams…Creeks…Poor Drainage…Urban And Low-Lying Areas Based On Current Forecasts.

You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Alert For Possible Flood Warnings.

Those Living…Working Or Driving In Areas Prone To Flooding Should Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flooding Develop.

(Photo by Carol Montana)

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NEW YORK STATE (June 11, 2013) – On June 10, 2013, the New York State Assembly passed legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D,I,WF-Forestburgh) to establish the New York State ALS Research and Education Fund.

The law provides for a check-off for gifts to the fund on corporate finance and personal income tax returns.

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) – better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease – is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

According to the ALS Association, the disease can strike anyone, and life expectancy averages from two to five years after diagnosis.

“There are currently about 30,000 people diagnosed with ALS, but as of yet, no cure,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “This legislation will give New Yorkers the option of conveniently contributing toward research of this terrible disease.”

The legislation (A1169/S2004) is carried by Senator David Carlucci and is currently in the Senate Finance Committee for consideration.

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NARROWSBURG, NY (June 9, 2013) – On Sunday, August 4, 2013, the Ten Mile River Scout Museum, located at 1481 Crystal Lake Road, Narrowsburg, NY, will be hosting a celebration of the 80^th anniversary of the Civilian Conservation Corps (C.C.C.) and C.C.C. Camp Ten Mile River.

The Museum is looking for anyone that worked at C.C.C. Camp Ten Mile River or their families who may have photos, memorabilia or stories to share them with us. 

Former camp enrollees and their families are invited to be special guests for the day. Please contact David M. Malatzky, associate curator, Ten Mile River Scout Museum, 2332 Holland Ave., Bronx, NY 10467.  E-Mail: dmalatzky@aol.com.

The C.C.C. was a New Deal program created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide work opportunities for unemployed Americans. 

Camp Ten Mile River operated near Turnpike Lake from 1933 – 1936. The August program will center on the Museum and the C.C.C. campsite, a short walk away.

While the Scouts will certainly be there, this will largely be an event for the local community, the public at large and C.C.C. enthusiasts in the region. The event is free.

Here are some planned program highlights for the day.

*Guided walks of the C.C.C. Camp Ten Mile River.

* FDR Impersonator Jonah Triebwasser

* A self-guided G.P.S. walking tour of C.C.C. Camp Ten Mile River.

* Displays of C.C.C. memorabilia and artifacts.

* Displays by local historical societies and museums and organizations like the National Park Service.

* Viewings of the P.B.S. American Experience documentary: The C.C.C.

* Talks by local C.C.C. Historians John Dowd, Diane Galusha and Peter Osborne

Food will be available for purchase.  The Ten Mile River Scout Museum will be open.

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MONTICELLO, NY (June 8, 2013) – Local icon, Bill Sipos, owner of Mr. Willy’s Restaurant, will be the subject of a “roast” slated to be held at his dining establishment, on Friday, June 28 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Sipos will be the recipient of Recovery Center’s Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of his years of service and commitment to improving the lives of Sullivan County’s youth. To date, he continues to work diligently on the boards of CASA and Community Unity.

Proceeds for the Roast will benefit two Recovery Center summer camp programs: Sunshine Getaway for youth ages 13-17; and Safe Summer Camp for youth ages seven to 12. Last year, 51 at-risk campers were able to attend a full week of camp through both programs. Unfortunately, numerous applicants were not able to go due to lack of funding. This year, the anticipated goal is to give similar camping experiences to 100 youth in total.

“I am honored to be the recipient of this award,” said Sipos. “Most importantly, I am proud to be able to play a role in raising funds to sponsor youth who otherwise could not possibly afford to attend these worthwhile programs that help instill the core values they need to become productive members of the community.”

Attendees at this year’s Roast will be afforded a fun-filled evening, complete with some ribaldry and good-natured ribbing of the guest of honor. Greg Goldstein will serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies, assisted by Gordon MacAdam. Party Master’s Perry Gips will provide musical entertainment and document the evening’s activities on video. Other highlights include: indoor/outdoor seating; enjoyment of the open fire pit; a silent auction and more.

Seating at the event is $65 per person, with discounts available for tables of 10. Additionally, journal ad submissions are currently being accepted, as are donations. For more information, contact Loretta Pearson, at 845-794-8080, ext. 110. Donations may be mailed to Mr. Willy’s Restaurant, 3695 Route 42, Forestburgh Road, Monticello, NY, 12701.

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Urges That Seven Locations be Identified With as Much Specificity as Possible

NEW YORK STATE (June 7, 2013) – State Senator John Bonacic today thanked Governor Cuomo for submitting casino gaming legislation, but indicated he was very concerned the Governor’s proposal would be defeated if adopted by the Legislature and put before the voters in November in its present form

“Many of the details that the Governor has proposed, including a specific tax rate, minimum application fee, campaign contribution prohibitions, casino vendor regulation, age of those eligible to gamble, and internal control operations make a lot of sense. Not only do I have no objection to them, I can support them,” Senator Bonacic said.

Senator Bonacic, however, has substantive differences with the Governor regarding where casinos should be located. The Senator wants more detailed area locations provided in the final legislation “The Governor calls this an upstate economic development act. I do believe he wants jobs upstate. I am concerned, however, that his desired jobs will not materialize unless there is broader transparency and more specificity as to where all seven of the proposed casinos will go,” Bonacic said.

The Senator said the bill also appeared to be aimed negatively at two groups the Governor has issues with: Genting which operates the Aqueduct VLT facility; and the Seneca Nation, which is in arbitration with the State over alleged breaches of the Seneca’s casino gaming compact with the State.

In 2012, the Governor announced that Genting would build a massive convention center in New York City. Genting and the Governor, however, could ultimately not come to terms on the convention center, and it was not built. The Governor has now excluded the prospect of gaming in Queens County – where Genting operates the highly successful Aqueduct casino, and instead, proposed that a casino could go to Long Island, which draws from the same customer base as Aqueduct.

“I have seen no evidence that Long Islanders – who are a sizable portion of the State’s population, want casino gaming on Long Island. Long Islanders and New York City residents are open to gaming in Queens – as the success of the Aqueduct VLT casino has shown. Long Islanders have concerns about traffic and over-development. Under my plan, casino revenue would be directed to revitalize Belmont, which I think Long Islanders would be more supportive of, rather than placing a new casino in an unnamed backyard in a Long Island community,” Bonacic said.

Bonacic urged that revenue enhancement for the State and local job creation be the key factors in siting the casinos. Since October 2011, Resorts World’s electronic gaming facility in Queens has generated nearly $500 million for education. Likewise, destination resorts in the Catskills will generate thousands of jobs near the New York City watershed – which suffers particular development prohibitions because of the reservoirs in the area.

“I can also appreciate the Governor’s desire to have some leverage over the Seneca, given that they are the only Nation who has not resolved their differences with the State. For the referendum to pass though, we need as much transparency as possible in terms of site selection for gaming locations – we don’t need to hold back 4 casinos as leverage, while only locating three now. Voters deserve to know where the casinos will go, and more importantly, where they will not be allowed, in order to vote in an educated way this November,” Bonacic said.

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

Affected Jurisdictions: Delaware, Sullivan Counties

Flood Watch In Effect From Friday Morning Through Saturday Morning…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A * Flood Watch For Portions Of Central And Southeastern New York…Including The Following Counties…Delaware And Sullivan.

From Friday Morning Through Saturday Morning

Rain…Heavy At Times…Will Fall From This Afternoon Through Saturday.

Total Rainfall Amounts Are Expected To Be 1 To 3 Inches With Localized Higher Amounts.

Starting Friday…This Rain Could Cause Localized Stream And Poor Drainage Flooding As Well As Headwater River Flooding.

A Flood Watch Means There Is The Potential For Flooding On Small Streams…Creeks…Poor Drainage…Urban And Low-Lying Areas Based On Current Forecasts.

You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Alert For Possible Flood Warnings.

Those Living…Working Or Driving In Areas Prone To Flooding Should Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flooding Develop.

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NEW YORK STATE (June 5, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced today that New York State is launching a statewide emergency tracking system to ensure the safety of patients and residents when healthcare and human services facilities are forced to evacuate as a result of a natural disaster.
The New York State Evacuation of Facilities in Disasters System (NYS e-FINDS) is a secure, confidential, fast and easy-to-use system to provide real-time access to patient locations. The system will be in place for the 2013 hurricane season, with training for providers beginning next week.

“In the event of an emergency, it is vital that family members, hospitals and nursing home staff can quickly find loved ones and patients if evacuations occur,” Governor Cuomo said. “Protecting the safety of vulnerable populations is always our top priority and this new system will serve as a critical emergency resource for all major health care and human services facilities.”

During Superstorm Sandy, more than 13,000 patients and residents were evacuated from State-regulated and State-run facilities, including more than 7,100 from hospitals and nursing homes. When these storms struck, there was no statewide system in place to track vulnerable patients and residents who had to be transferred to alternative locations due to flooding, power outages or damage to facilities.

NYS e-FINDS (http://nysandyhelp.ny.gov/e-FINDS) will provide patient tracking to hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities overseen by the Department of Health; state developmental centers and many certified residential homes overseen by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities; residential treatment programs overseen by the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services; state psychiatric facilities and licensed residential programs overseen by the Office of Mental Health; supportive housing overseen by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and juvenile justice facilities operated by the Office of Children and Family Services.

Under this new system, all facilities will use barcode wristbands pre-printed with the facility name for all patients and facility residents, except for facilities such as substance abuse treatment programs where confidentiality requires that facility names be excluded. Patient and resident locations can be updated and tracked using hand-held scanners, mobile apps, or paper tracking (if power and/or phones are out of service).

The establishment of NYS e-FINDS follows the recommendation of the NYS Ready and Respond Commissions, and was based on close collaboration with outside organizations, including the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA).

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NEW YORK STATE (June 4, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Friday actions to strengthen penalties for texting-while-driving to protect New Yorkers on the road. The Governor has directed the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to implement tougher penalties for texting-while-driving for all drivers effective June 1 and proposed new penalties for texting-while-driving for young and new drivers. In addition, the Governor has directed the New York State Police to increase enforcement of the texting-while-driving ban during the summer starting this weekend. This will mean more checkpoints and troopers patrolling on the roads across the state throughout the summer when more drivers are on the road. The Governor announced these actions today at a news conference in New York City.

“As the father of three teenagers, I know firsthand the importance of instilling safe practices in our young drivers who are developing lifelong habits as they learn to navigate the road,” Governor Cuomo said. “Inattention and inexperience is a deadly combination – one this legislation seeks to deter. We are urging young and inexperienced drivers to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, while putting stronger penalties in place for drivers of all ages who violate the law and put others in danger. No parent should have to experience losing a child at the hands of a text message.”

Since taking office, the Governor has led the charge to crack down on distracted drivers that put the lives of other motorists at risk by using electronic devices while behind the wheel. In July 2011, Governor Cuomo signed a new law to strengthen enforcement of texting-while-driving violations which made using a handheld electronic device for activities such as texting while driving a primary traffic offense, giving law enforcement the power to stop motorists solely for engaging in this activity. Additionally, the penalty for using a handheld device while driving was increased from two to three points. Since this law was passed, there has been a 234% increase in the number of tickets issued for texting while driving in New York State from 2011 to 2012.

Friday’s actions continue to build on the Governor’s efforts to increase awareness among drivers about the dangers of texting-while-driving. Further, statistics show that texting and using a cellphone while driving is a growing trend, whereas alcohol-related driving has declined.

· From 2005 to 2011, there has been an approximately 143% increase in cell phone-related crashes in New York State. In that same time period, there has been an approximately 18% decrease in alcohol-related crashes in New York State.
· In 2011, there were 25,165 fatal and personal injury crashes involving distracted driving in New York, compared to 4,628 caused by alcohol-related driving.
· In New York State, the number of tickets issued for texting-while-driving (30,166) approached the number of DWI/DWAI arrests (43,954) in 2012. In fact, between 2011 and 2012, there was a 234% increase in the number of tickets issued for texting while driving. In the same time period, there was a 4% decrease in the number of DWI/DWAI arrests.

For young and new drivers who text while driving, inattention and inexperience is a deadly combination that puts themselves and others at risk. Still, 43% of teenage drivers admit that they regularly text while driving, according to research released at a recent poster session of the Pediatric Academic Societies.

· Sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds which is the equivalent – at 55 miles per hour – of driving the length of an entire football field while blind. (Virginia Tech Transportation Institute)
· There are three main types of distraction while driving: Visual (taking your eyes off the road); Manual (taking your hands off the wheel); and Cognitive (taking your mind off what you are doing). Texting-while-driving involves all three types. (Centers for Disease Control)

Under the Governor’s direction, DMV will increase the number of points earned against an individual’s driving record upon conviction for texting-while-driving and cell-phone related infractions from the current three points to five points. This is effective as of June 1 for all drivers.

The Governor is also proposing legislation that would establish tough new penalties for young and new drivers convicted of texting-while-driving.

Under current law, probationary and junior licenses are suspended for 60 days for violations such as speeding, reckless driving, or following too closely behind another vehicle. Such licenses are revoked for 6 months (for probationary licenses) or 60 days (for junior licenses) if there is another violation within 6 months of the license being restored.

The Governor’s proposed legislation will impose the same penalties on drivers with probationary and junior licenses for texting-while-driving that they now receive for speeding and reckless driving: 60-day suspensions for first convictions and revocations of 60 days (for junior licenses) or 6 months (for probationary licenses) for subsequent convictions within 6 months of the time a license is restored after suspension.

DMV Commissioner Barbara J. Fiala said, “With the increased use of mobile devices, we have all become more concerned about safety on our highways. I congratulate Governor Cuomo on his continued efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and for putting increased penalties in place for those who engage in the dangerous behavior of texting while driving.”

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Top photo provided, bottom photo by Carol Montana

NARROWSBURG, NY (June 4, 2013) – Scout Weekends continue on June 8 when “Ben Franklin” will be at Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History at 1:00 p.m. to teach visitors how he built his famous “electrifying” kite.

Historic instructions (with some modern supplies and adaptations) will be provided for the hands-on craft making experience. (Unfortunately kites will not be able to be test flown at the Fort due to safety issues.)

As during all Scout Weekends, admission is only $3 each for uniformed scouts and for anyone accompanied by a scout in uniform. Scouts need not come with their troops or troop leaders.

Admission includes a tour of the Fort, where costumed docents interpret the lives and lifestyles of the first European settlers in the Upper Delaware River valley. Demonstrations include: candle making, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, gardening, cabin keeping, weaponry – particularly periodic “Blasts from the Past” on an authentic 2-pound signal cannon.

Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday until June 28, when Fort hours expand to include Fridays and Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History is located along the New York State Scenic Byway at 6615 State Route 97 in Narrowsburg, New York 12764.

For further information, contact Fort Director Debra Conway at 845-252-6660.

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Photos by Kathleen Aitken

WOODRIDGE, NY (June 2, 2013) On Tuesday, May 28, a three-alarm fire destroyed a trio of buildings at Camp Bnos Skwere on Glen Wild Road in Woodridge.

Below are photos from that event. To see more photos from the Camp Bnos Skwere Fire, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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Photos by Carol Montana

GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (June 1, 2013) – On Wednesday, May 22, a ceremony was held to mark the grand opening of the new permanent exhibit at the Time  and the Valleys Museum in Grahamsville.

“Toil and Trouble: New York City’s Quest for Water and the Rondout-Neversink Story,” is an exhibit which tells the story of New York City’s water supply system, and specifically the building of the Neversink and Rondout Reservoirs, and the taking of the houses, farms and land which formed the towns of Neversink, Montela, Eureka, Lackawack and Bittersweet.

The ceremony featured a keynote address by environmental lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Also on the program were remarks by New York City Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Carter Strickland, Executive Director of the Catskill Watershed Corporation Alan Rosa, former supervisor of the Town of Denning Clayton Brooks and others.

Grahamsville resident Gail McAndrews sang the national anthem, Tri-Valley Central School student Mikayla Clearwater read an essay, Ashley Exner sand “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and President of the Time and the Valleys Museum Richard Coombe served as host for the afternoon. Pastor Bob Kersten from the Grahamsville United Methodist Church gave the invocation, and the local Boy Scout troop presented the colors.

Also present at the ceremony were Margaret Dolan, formerly of the town of Eureka and Mary Mentnech, formerly of the town of Neversink. Both communities are now under the waters of the reservoirs.

Following the ceremony, guests toured the interactive exhibit and enjoyed refreshments prepared by culinary students at Sullivan County BOCES.

The Time and the Valleys Museum is located at 332 Main Street in Grahamsville (State Route 55). For more information including hours and directions, call 845 985-7700 or go to timeandthevalleysmuseum.org.

Below are some photos of the event. To see more photos or to purchase prints from Toil & Trouble: NYC’s Quest for Water, visit the Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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Photos by Carol Montana

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (June 1, 2013) – The 10^th Annual Trout Parade, Sullivan County’s own version of Mardi Gras, will be held on Saturday, June 8 in  Livingston Manor, rain or shine. Produced by the Catskill Art Society in partnership with the Livingston Manor Chamber of Commerce, the Trout Parade is also supported by businesses and individuals from around the community. Proceeds will benefit the Arts and Music Programs at the Livingston Manor Central School and the nonprofit Catskill Art Society.

Attendees can expect to find lots of fishy fun along Main Street from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., including an arts-and-crafts fair, children’s activities, and specialty foods from local vendors.

Entertainment will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Main Street, including puppet performances by Ramona Jan, face painting by Miss Sunshine the Clown, and stilt walking by Brett Keyser and Tannis Kowalchuk of the NaCl Theatre.

The parade will step-off promptly at 1:00 p.m., led by the 2013 Grand Marshall Jenny Lytton. She will be followed by a wide variety of antique and classic cars, music, entertainment, and floats representing local businesses, organizations and performance groups from this area and beyond, including the magnificent puppets of Catskill Puppet Theater and Bud Wertheim’s famous Giant Brook Trout. Sullivan County citizens and benefactors such as Jeff Bank, the Catskill Fly Fishing Center, and the Livingston Manor Rotary will march and enter floats, while cultural organizations and shows like NaCl Theatre’s “The Weather Project” will turn heads with spectacular costumes and showmanship.

A variety of music for all tastes will get audiences to “Boogie Down,” from Paprika, the acclaimed all-female international dance music band; the Hungry March Band, a longtime favorite marching brass ensemble with a scrappy soul; and Taste Da’ Thumbs Symphony, a rocking band featuring local favorites with a set of progressive rock and heavy funk.

All during the festivities, Wilkes and Bernard Photography will provide instant portraits at the CAS Arts Center, located at 48 Main Street. All proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Catskill Art Society and support its exhibits, classes, and cultural programming. Professional photographs will be taken and prints made on the spot.

This year’s Trout Parade is dedicated to the memory of Barry Foster, whose indomitable spirit and sense of humor was a touchstone to all who knew him in the Livingston Manor community. His role as emcee for most of the event’s history will be commemorated with this year’s milestone event as it promotes the joy and hometown pride that he so cherished.

For more information and details on how to become a sponsor or to participate in the Trout Parade, contact the Catskill Art Society at 845-436-4227, e-mail info@catskillartsociety.org, or visit www.troutparade.com.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (May 31, 2013) – Cornell Cooperative Extension is tracking the Asian Tiger Mosquito.

The Tiger Mosquito or Forest Day Mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Stegomyia albopicta), from the mosquito (Culicidae) family, is characterized by its black and white striped legs, and small black and white striped body.

It is native to the tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia; however, in the past couple of decades this species has invaded many countries throughout the world through the transport of goods and increasing international travel.

This mosquito has become a significant pest in many communities because it closely associates with humans (rather than living in wetlands), and typically flies and feeds in the daytime in addition to at dusk and dawn.

The insect is called a tiger mosquito because its striped appearance is similar to a tiger. Aedes albopictus is an epidemiologically important vector for the transmission of many viral pathogens, including the West Nile virus, Yellow fever virus, St. Louis encephalitis, dengue fever, and Chikungunya fever, as well as several filarial nematodes such as Dirofilaria immitis.

If you discover this mosquito biting you or someone you know, take a picture with your phone, download the app and/or visit the site listed below and let Cornell know. http://www.inaturalist.org/projects/asian-tiger-mosquito-range-in-new-york-state-and-beyond

It’s easy to identify – a large black-and-white mosquito biting you during the day.

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Free listings and additional promotional opportunities available

FERNDALE, NY (May 30, 2013) – After an extensive analysis, the Sullivan County Visitors Association has identified a strong niche within Sullivan County: agri-tourism.

The SCVA is compiling information to produce an agricultural map to include farms, farm markets, farm stands, and Farmstock, as well as businesses serving locally grown products.

The “ag map” will be produced, distributed, and advertised through the SCVA. The information will also be available as an interactive map on the websites maintained by SCVA, including scva.net, madeinsullivancountycatskills.com, and outinthecatskills.com.

“We feel strongly that highlighting our agri-tourism opportunity will help build additional interest in our incredible area,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, president and CEO of the SCVA. “These folks produce some of the most incredible fresh food available for miles, much of it already being highlighted in many famous New York City restaurants and farm markets.”

General listings in the “ag map” are free, and enhanced color listings, display ads, and web ads are also available at additional costs.

For more information about the “ag map” and how to get listed, contact the SCVA at 845-747-4449 or info@scva.net.

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CALLICOON, NY (May 30, 2013) – Academy Award winning documentary filmmaker, Josh Fox will present “Gasland II” at the Callicoon Theatre on Saturday, June 8 at 10:30 a.m.

The Callicoon Theatre is at 30 Upper Main Street in Callicoon, NY.

Gasland II is an HBO Documentary Films release written and directed by Fox and featuring Josh Fox, John Fenton, Calvin Tillman, Lisa & Bob Parr, Deborah Rogers, Lisa Jackson and Dennis Kucinich.

The film will be followed by a Q&A with the director.

Sponsoring organizations are Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy, Catskill Mountainkeeper, Damascus Citizens for Sustainability and SACRED (Sullivan Area Citizens for Responsible Energy Development).

Admission is free and donations at the door will be appreciated. Reservations are required at: info@catskillcitizens.org, info@catskillmountainkeeper.org or DCS@DamascusCitizens.org or call Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy at 845-468-7063, Catskill Mountainkeeper at 845-482-5400, or Damascus Citizens for Sustainability at 845- 252-6677.

The film premieres on HBO on July 8. 

Here are links for the movie’s three trailers:

http://vimeo.com/66351194

http://vimeo.com/66298336

http://vimeo.com/66297755

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (May 29, 2013) – Issued By:  NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Albany, Allegany, Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orange, Oswego, Otsego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Yates Counties

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

***A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail or damaging winds.

When a watch is issued, you should go about your normal activities, but keep an eye to the sky and an ear to the National Weather Service’s weather radio or local radio and television stations for further updates and possible warnings.

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