The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 9, 2015) – The Catskill Chronicle received this press release from Sullivan County Manager Josh Potosek.

“I would like to take a moment to address the residents of Sullivan County with regard to the service delays at Sullivan County Department of Family Services, and how we intend to move forward to provide a more efficient service delivery model.

“Our issues with the processing of HEAP applications are, sadly, not new. The number of applications processed in 2009-2010 HEAP season was 5,801 regular HEAP benefit and 1,157 Emergency benefits. To date in the 2014-2015 HEAP season DFS has processed 5,779 Regular benefits and 707 Emergency benefits so far. While pre-screening and qualifying begins in October and alleviates some of the bottleneck, the majority of eligible County residents cannot apply until November 17th. Compounding the bottleneck of having so many applicants apply at once, the incredibly cold winter we have had so far has led to more residents in need of HEAP assistance earlier in the winter season.

“This year, the DFS Commissioner implemented a new HEAP processing plan, which included:

• 3 full-time employees dedicated to HEAP (as submitted with the 2015 Budget Request)
• 5 seasonal employees who were hired for the HEAP season
• Several full-time employees who were part-time dedicated to HEAP
• Eliminating two HEAP positions in favor of a contract with the local 2-1-1 service provider to answer HEAP related questions, help callers determine their eligibility, etc.

“By early December, my office began to field an abnormally high volume of calls, specifically related to HEAP processing. When I discussed my concerns with the Commissioner, I was assured the situation was being handled, with some employees working a small amount of overtime a few nights a week and having employees from other DFS departments assist.

“I asked for, and received, periodic updates from the Commissioner over the next month, but the volume of calls to my office from residents whose HEAP applications where in limbo did not diminish. Each time I received an update, I was assured there was no problem and limited overtime was handling the workload. On January 23, I felt it necessary to step in and mandate the Commissioner seek volunteers for weekend overtime to address the backlog. If volunteers had not been forthcoming, I was prepared to mandate overtime in DFS and to deploy resources from other county departments to address the situation.

“Unfortunately, as the HEAP backlog has subsided, it has been brought to my attention that there are several other areas within DFS that are suffering from similar issues. For example, recent statistics from the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance show that over 50% of all applicants for the SNAP program are not being processed within the required 30-day timeframe.

“Additionally I have been informed that there is a potential problem with the processing of payments to childcare and foster care providers in a timely fashion, resulting in hardships on the vendors. This is something that we are currently looking into.

“I want to stress here the DFS staff have been working at a frantic pace to keep up with processing applications for HEAP, TANF, SNAP and other benefits, and they have volunteered to give up their nights, weekends and personal time to ensure that those who need the assistance receive it. They are the unsung heroes who truly deserve to be recognized for their efforts.

“With that being said it has become apparent that many DFS staff members are in need of more training and more supervision in order to do their job more effectively, and reduce the number of applications that are denied for technicalities rather than merit. I am fully committed to working with DFS supervisors and labor leaders to ensure a full training/refresher schedule is implemented in 2015 in order to give our staff the tools they need to most efficiently serve our residents.

“It is obvious that the volume of DFS applications is not going away, and we need to first understand the full extent of the problems, and then create serious and lasting reforms in how Sullivan County processes these applications and ensures services to our most vulnerable and at-risk residents. I am open to all ideas, and I will be meeting with employees from each of the DFS departments over the next two weeks to gather their concerns, opinions and suggestions on where our problem areas exist, and how we can address them moving forward. These men and women are experts in their field, and they have invaluable knowledge that I know they will share in order to better serve the residents of Sullivan County. I will also be reaching out to Assemblywoman Aileen M. Gunther and Senator John Bonacic for their insights and recommendations; especially since their offices have also fielded a significant number of DFS related calls recently.

“We are in the process of engaging an impartial, outside consultant to determine the extent of the applicant processing and vendor payment issues at DFS. I am grateful for the assistance of the County Treasurer, County Auditor and the Commissioner of Management in Budget with this selection process. I have requested the analysis commence immediately, and that their recommendations be submitted to me by May 31st, for full implementation no later than September 1, 2015.

“There are many options and suggestions on the table to adequately address the issues at DFS. The answer might lie in more training for the staff, or perhaps moving DFS staff to four, 10-hour work days to better accommodate residents’ schedules. To reduce the foot traffic in the DFS building we might consider having a mobile DFS service, similar to the mobile DMV, or HEAP processing days in our local town halls, to best serve our residents who are eligible and entitled to receive the services. We will work with the department heads, labor leaders, elected officials and of course, the County Legislature, to create the most efficient and sustainable model to deliver critical services to our most vulnerable residents in need.

“It is my honor and pleasure to serve my home, Sullivan County, and my door is always open to any resident who has an issue, suggestions or feedback. My office number is 845-807-0450 and my email is joshua.potosek@co.sullivan.ny.us.”

2014-2015 HEAP Timeline

• August 13, 2014: Commissioner requests 11 new DFS employees and 2 upgrades for 2015 Tentative Budget, requested positions include:

New: Staff Development Coordinator, Full Charge Bookkeeper, Social Services Data Control Coordinator, Assistant Employment and Training Director, Social Services Housing Director, Case Supervisor, Case Supervisor A, (2) Preventive Caseworkers, Account Clerk, Case Services Aide; Upgrades: Deputy Commissioner of Family Services to Division Deputy Commissioner, Head Social Welfare Examiner to Chief Social Welfare Examiner

• County Manager Recommends in 2015 Tentative County Budget 1 Staff Development Coordinator in the 2015 Tentative Budget
• The end of August, 2014 Early Outreach starts for HEAP
• October 17: Commissioner changes budget request to 9 new DFS employees and 3 upgrades. Is submitted too late for inclusion in the 2015 Tentative Budget, requested positions include:

New: Staff Development Coordinator, Full charge Bookkeeper, Social Services Data Control Coordinator, Social Services Housing Director, Assistant Director of Services, (2) Preventive Caseworkers, Account Clerk, Case Services Aide; Upgrades: Deputy Commissioner of Family Services to Division Deputy Commissioner, Sr. Social Welfare Examiner to Assistant Employment and Training Director, Head Social Welfare Examiner to Chief Social Welfare Examiner

• November 15: HEAP begins for regular applications

• December 1: Contract with 2-1-1 Service replaces 2 HEAP employees, as per Commissioner’s request
• December 4: Commissioner submits request for 7 DFS employees and 2 upgrades to the County Legislature at a Special Management and Budget Committee, requested positions include:

Full Charge Bookkeeper, Social Services Data Control Coordinator, Assistant Employment and Training Director, Social Services Housing Inspector, Assistant Director of Services, (2) Preventive Caseworker; Upgrades: Head Social Welfare Examiner to Chief Social Welfare Examiner, Sr. Caseworker to Case Supervisor

• In between the December 4 Special Management and Budget Committee meeting and the adoption of the budget: Commissioner verbally modifies his previous request to 3 new DFS employees to the Commissioner of Management and Budget.
• Those positions include: Division Deputy Commissioner, (2) Preventive Caseworkers
• HEAP backlog calls to County Manager’s Office begin: December 15, 2014
• January 23: County Manager directs Commissioner to solicit volunteers to work overtime during the week and weekends to eliminate backlog.
• Total HEAP applications processed Saturday, January 24 through Sunday, January 25 approximately 662:
• February 9: County Manager, Treasurer, Auditor and Commissioner for Management & Budget work to select outside consultant
• February 9-February 20: County Manager to meet with DFS Department staff
• May 31st: Outside consultant’s report and recommendations due
• September 1, 2015: Department Heads & Consultants’ recommendations implemented.

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February 9, 2015 – Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Sullivan, Tioga Counties

Patchy Freezing Drizzle This Evening…Accumulating Snow Has Ended…But Scattered Flurries And Patchy freezing Drizzle Will Linger This Evening From The Southern Tier and Western Catskills Of NY…Into Northeast Pa.

Roads Will continue To Be Slippery. Continue To Exercise Caution When Driving this Evening.

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

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 8, 2015) – Your sweetheart may have the key to your heart, but a proper diet and regular physical activity can be the key to a healthy heart. This Valentine’s Day, skip the chocolates and indulge your sweetheart with a heart-healthy gift or date. There’s no better gift than helping each other maintain healthy habits to prevent heart disease and stroke, the No.1 and No. 5 health threats, so you can live a longer, stronger life together.

Christa Gray and Pat Page would agree that couples who sweat together can stay healthy together for many years to come. The married couple workout together at Gold’s Gym in LaGrange, NY.

“We definitely push each other to do more. When you’re working out with a companion, you’re more likely to go because they’re depending on you. You don’t back out of it or make excuses not to go,” said Gray.

They take yoga and kickboxing classes together, workout with a trainer and enjoy outdoor sports together like snowboarding, paddle boarding and mountain biking.

“We just really enjoy each other’s company and push each other to be healthy,” she said, “We feel more energized, more connected.”

“With yoga, it’s a great, intense workout but it’s good to relax for an hour and de-stress together,” said Page.

The American Heart Association recommends exercising 30 minutes most days of the week to prevent heart disease and stroke, the number one and five killers. Working out together as a couple is a great way to improve health during American Heart Month and year-round. Here are 14 other ways to make your February 14^th a sweet, and healthy Valentine’s Day from the American Heart Association | American Stroke Association.

1. Quality time is one of the most meaningful gifts. Bundle up and plan an active mid-winter outing such as sledding, ice skating, or skiing.

2. Build a cozy fire – chopping and collecting wood counts as exercise!

3. Try a new physical activity together like an indoor rock climbing or indoor golf lessons.

4. Make reservations at your favorite healthy restaurant – sample a variety of heart healthy menu items and share a dessert to help control calories.

5. Create a gourmet dinner at home with healthy seasonal foods like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, apples, pears, carrots and winter squash. Try cooking methods like baking, roasting and steaming and use lean meats and whole grains.

6. Add spice of life but not the sodium – Eat well and healthy meals together but pledge to reduce sodium in your meals to help prevent high blood pressure and stroke.

7. Roast chestnuts by an open fire. Yes, go nuts by the fire! Roasted, unsalted nuts of all varieties are great as appetizers and gifts. You can also add nuts to many winter dishes, such as green beans with dry-roasted almonds.

8. Toast to heart health with non-alcohol drinks.  Be mindful of your health and drink in moderation. Enjoy non-alcoholic versions of your favorite cocktails to lower calories or use less alcohol by mixing with sparkling water or sugar-free juices.

9. Hit the dance floor – What’s more romantic than taking your sweetheart out for a spin on the dance floor? Even if it’s dancing around the living room, dancing is a great aerobic activity that can burn over 300 calories per hour.

10. Walk and talk – Set up regular morning or evening walks together to get your 30 minutes of exercise in while connecting with each other.

11. Meditate and de-stress together – Keeping stress out of a marriage isn’t easy, but building in time to meditate together can help and keep you focused on the important things in life.

12. Roll out your yoga mat side-by-side – Buy a new beginner’s Yoga DVD and try Yoga together to distress, stretch and strengthen.

13. Snuggle up for a nap – We’re not talking hibernation, even though staying under the covers all day may sound attractive. Stay healthy all winter long by getting enough sleep (about eight hours a night). Sleep helps to ward off illness, maintain weight and keep your heart healthy.

14. Workout together – Don’t hit the gym alone. Couples can support and motivate each other, and help each other stay committed to achieve fitness goals.

For more information on staying healthy, visit www.heart.org.

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(February 8, 2015) – Issued By: NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chemung, Delaware, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga Counties
…Falling Temperatures And Freezing Rain This Evening…Mixed Precipitation Will Become More Widespread In Northeast Pennsylvania And The Southern Tier And Western Catskills Of New York This Evening. Some Of This Precipitation Will Be Freezing Rain Especially Across The Higher Elevation Of Northeast Pennsylvania.

In Addition Colder Air Will Slowly Move South From Central New York Into Northern Pennsylvania.

Temperatures Will Fall From The 30s Into The 20s. Wet Roads Could Freeze.

If Driving Tonight Slow Down And Watch For Icy Roads.

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

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HIGHLAND, NY (February 7, 2015) – Several Sullivan County residents will join hundreds of Heroes and Sidekicks who will participate in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Subzero Heroes Ice Jump at Berean Lake in Highland.

The Jump is scheduled for Saturday, February 14.

Over 150 Heroes will travel from all over the Hudson Valley (and some as far as Long Island and Pennsylvania) to jump into the freezing waters.

Fundraising dollars given to participants of Subzero Heroes fuel the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission-related initiatives of care, support and research. In addition, the media coverage of Subzero Heroes helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in the community.

There is still time to join a team. Find out more at http://www.subzeroheroes.org.

Subzero Heroes started on a chilly February afternoon in 2011 where 25 Heroes dove into a frozen lake and raised $8,000. Now, just four years later, hundreds of Heroes line up to jump and over $70,000 is expected to be raised at the event, just four years later.

Everyone is invited to join in, as a jumper or supporter, and of course as a donator. Each donation helps the team get closer to the front of the line, which gives them less time to "chicken out." Team supporters are called "sidekicks" and this year they will be dressed up as chickens. In addition to their support, the chickens will have towels as the jumpers come out of the freezing cold water.

To donate online and help the Marv-Alz (comics) Super Heroes team reach the front of the line, go to: Marv-Alz SuperHeroes.This will take you to the Sullivan County team. Then click on the individual you would like to donate on behalf of.

In the photo above, Marv-Alz Superhero Marcia Fink is surrounded by the Team’s Chicken Sidekicks (l to r) are Susan Koenig, Sheila Lashinsky, Janet Scherf, Hero Marcia Fink, Betty Titko-Fried, Lynn McDonald and George Cooke.

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About the Alzheimer’s Association:

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. For more information call 800-272-3900.

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(February 7, 2015) – Affected Jurisdictions:  Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Otsego, Sullivan Counties

*…Winter Storm Warning In Effect From Noon Sunday To 7 AM EST Tuesday…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter Storm Warning For Snow…Which Is In Effect From Noon Sunday To 7 AM EST Tuesday. A Previously Issued Winter Storm Watch Is No Longer In Effect.

*Locations…Central New York And The Western Catskills.

*Hazards…Heavy Snow.

*Accumulations…8 To 14 Inches Of Snow.

*Timing…Snow Will Develop Across The Area Sunday Morning And Continue Through Monday Evening, Before Tapering Off Toward Daybreak Tuesday. The Heaviest Snow Will Fall From Sunday Afternoon Through Monday Evening.

*Temperatures…Generally In The 20s, But Close To 32 Degrees Sunday Afternoon.

*Winds…Northeast 5 To 10 Mph.

*Impacts…Dangerous Travel Conditions From Snow Covered Slippery Roads.
A Winter Storm Warning Means Significant Amounts Of Snow…Sleet…And Ice Are Expected Or Occurring. This Will Make Travel Very Hazardous Or Impossible.

Please Report Snowfall And/Or Ice Amounts To The National Weather Service By Calling Toll Free At 1-888-603-1402…Or By Email at bgm.Stormreport@Noaa.Gov.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 5, 2015) – The Sullivan County Visitors Association’s Winter Wonderland Photo Contest came to a close on February 1, with 129 photos submitted and 2,184 votes cast online.

The contest not only helped shine a positive light on the Sullivan County Catskills, it also contributed to a 50 percent increase in traffic to the Visitors Association website, as well as increased traffic to the Association’s Facebook page. “We couldn’t believe the incredible response that this contest evoked,” SCVA President Roberta Byron-Lockwood said. “We were impressed with the results from the Fall Foliage Photo Contest, and this one was even better!”

Earning an astonishing 451 votes, Livingston Manor Veterinarian Luann Steele came in First Place with her beautiful picture of Livingston Manor Central School. Steele took the shot one morning when she was dropping off her children at school. “People must have thought I was crazy getting out of my car on the side of the road when it was -1 degree outside, but I couldn’t resist,” said Steele. “Northern Sullivan County is a really beautiful area and it is easy for those of us who live here to take it for granted, especially when it is so cold!”

Close behind were Charlie Maloney (photo right), Ben Koerner (photo below left), and Kevin Kreischer (photo below right), who came in Second, Third, and Forth Place respectively.

All contest winners were awarded various prizes contributed by seven different SCVA member businesses. Those businesses included Sullivan County Farmers’ Markets, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, The Country Bum’kin Antiques, Natural Contents Kitchen, WSUL, WVOS, and Morgan Outdoors.

“The SCVA wants to offer a huge thank you to our sponsors and our entrants, all of whom helped make Winter Wonderland such a success,” Byron-Lockwood said.

Explore all of the submissions by visiting the Sullivan County Visitors Association’s website atscva.net/winter-wonderland-contest.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 5, 2015) – Extreme Cold Expected Tonight Into Early Friday…An Arctic Front Passed Through The Area This Morning And Has Ushered in Much Colder Air.

Special weather statement 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

After Sunset This Evening…Temperatures Will Begin To Fall Much More Quickly With Readings Going Well Below Zero. Widespread Readings Of 5 To 10 Below Are Expected overnight…With The Normally Colder Spots Even Lower.

If You Will Be Outside This Evening And Overnight…Be Prepared To face The Cold. Dress In Layers And Leave As Little Exposed Skin As possible.

Also…If You Will Be Driving Remember That Road Chemicals are Much Less Effective At These Temperatures So Any Snow Or Ice On roads Is Unlikely To Melt Despite Being Treated. Roads May Be slippery.

Wind Chill Advisory –

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

Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Sullivan, Tioga Counties

Wind Chill Advisory issued February 05 at 3:20PM EST until February 06 at 10:00AM EST by NWS Binghamton

…Wind Chill Advisory In Effect From 7 PM This Evening To 10 Am EST Friday…The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Wind chill Advisory…Which Is In Effect From 7 PM This Evening To10 AM EST Friday.

* Locations…All Of Central New York To Northeast Pennsylvania.

* Hazards…Very Cold Temperatures And Wind Chills.

* Wind Chills…Generally 5 To 15 Below Zero. As Low As 20 Below zero At Higher Elevations.

* Temperatures…Lows Near Zero To 10 Below Zero.* Winds…West 5 To 10 Mph. Gusts To 15 Mph At Higher Elevations.

* Timing…Tonight Through Early Friday Morning.

A Wind Chill Advisory Is Issued When Winds Combine With Very Cold temperatures To Create Dangerous Conditions For Exposed Skin. The wind Chill Is Expected To Be Cold Enough To Cause Frostbite In about 30 Minutes Or Less…And Could Lead To Hypothermia If precautions Are Not Taken. Those Planning To Venture Outdoors should Use Common Sense And Dress Warmly…Making Sure That All exposed Skin Is Covered.

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New Yorkers Have Less Than Two Weeks Left to Enroll

NEW YORK STATE (February 4, 2015) – The New York State of Health (NYSOH) Marketplace has enrolled more than two million New Yorkers in affordable health insurance coverage. This is the latest record enrollment for New York’s health exchange, and 89 percent of enrollees have reported that they had no coverage at the time they joined the Marketplace.

New Yorkers who have enrolled in coverage through the Marketplace have overwhelmingly reported that they are satisfied with their health insurance (92 percent) and are using their coverage to access care (84 percent).

“Today, more than two million New Yorkers have access to quality, affordable healthcare due to the successful implementation of the New York State of Health Marketplace,” Governor Cuomo said. “This is a tremendous milestone for the State’s health exchange, and one that represents another important step toward ensuring that New York is a healthier state for all. These numbers are a testament to our progress in helping those without coverage find a plan that works for them – and I encourage all other people who are thinking about enrolling to do so before the upcoming deadline.”

“Thanks to the hard work and strong commitment of NY State of Health staff and our partners, the NYSOH Marketplace has reached a new high point,” said NYSOH Executive Director Donna Frescatore. “With the open enrollment deadline right around the corner on February 15, we will be out in full force to ensure that families and individuals in all corners of the state know what’s available.”

This year’s open enrollment runs through February 15. Individuals who do not enroll on or before February 15 will have to wait until 2016 for coverage to begin unless they meet very limited requirements. Under federal law, individuals who are uninsured may be required to pay a federal tax penalty which will increase in 2015.

New tools that were developed to make it easier for customers to understand their health insurance options and the enrollment process continue to be well received by consumers. The NYSOH’s website plan preview, or anonymous shopping tool, which allows individuals to shop for a health plan before starting an application, was used more than 2.6 million times during this period. Additionally, the NYSOH Customer Service Center has answered more than 945,134 calls since the start of open enrollment.

Given that past research has shown many individuals lacking insurance are unaware of the enrollment period and unaware that they may be eligible for financial assistance, NYSOH has continued to expand its outreach efforts to ensure that every New Yorker knows that affordable health care options are available. Nearly three-quarters of those who enrolled in private coverage in 2014 were eligible for tax credits to lower the cost of their coverage.
To help educate consumers, NYSOH has created a series of brief informational videos, in English and Spanish languages, with the latest explaining the value of having health insurance coverage and some targeted toward millennials. NYSOH’s video library can be found at http://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/resources.

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About the NY State of Health Marketplace

New York opened its Health Plan marketplace, NY State of Health, on October 2013. The Marketplace’s one stop health insurance shopping experience offers high quality comprehensive plans for consumers to choose from. NY State of Health is the only place where consumers can qualify to get help paying for coverage through premium discounts or tax credits. February 15, 2015 is the last day to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan for 2015. The NY State of Health Small Business Marketplace for employers with 50 or fewer employees is open to enrollment throughout the year. New Yorkers can also enroll in public health insurance programs through the Marketplace all year.

For more information about the NY State of Health marketplace, please visit https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call Customer Service at 1-855-355-5777.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY & SURROUNDING AREA (February 4, 2015) – 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

Snow Is Spreading Across The Region This Evening. The Snow Will Reach Towanda, Vestal, And Stamford Between 8:30 PM And 9:30 PM. The snow Will Spread Into The Wyoming Valley Of Pa Between 11 PM And 1 AM. 2 To 4 Inches Accumulation Is Expected Through Tonight From The Twin Tiers Northward…And 1 To 3 Inches In Portions Of Northeast Pennsylvania Including The Wyoming And Delaware Valleys.The Snow May Create Hazardous Driving Conditions. Please Drive With Caution.

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

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JEFFERSONVILLE, NY (February 2, 2015) – At 6:00 a.m. on February 12, 1990, hydro-powered community radio station WJFF made its historic first broadcast. This year, the station turns 25 and will begin its year-long anniversary celebration with a three-day open house February 12th thru 14th. WJFF’s 25th Birthday Open House runs from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on both Thursday and Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday there will be food, drinks and celebration in WJFF’s main studio located at 4765 State Route 52 in Jeffersonville, NY.

WJFF listeners and friends are invited to join the station’s founders and many volunteers at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday February 12^th to celebrate the station’s birthday with a delicious birthday cake. A second cake-cutting ceremony will also take place at WJFF’s satellite studio inside The Cooperage at 1030 Main Street in Honesdale, PA at 12:00 noon on Friday February 13 with an open house continuing until 4:00 p.m.

During the three-day celebration, WJFF’s studios and airwaves will be filled with special guests, returning hosts, archival audio highlights and more. Throughout the community, local businesses will be helping WJFF celebrate by hosting “Cake Parties” at the businesses. Friends of the station are invited to stop in and enjoy a piece of birthday cake.

Thursday February 12th – Kristt Company – Monticello, Morgan Outdoors – Livingston Manor and Steve’s Music Center – Rock Hill

Friday February 13th – Read it Again Bookstore – Monticello NY, Delaware Valley Arts Alliance – Narrowsburg and Fat Boiz – Monticello

Saturday February 14^{th –} Ultimate Auto Repair – Woodridge, Floyd & Bobo’s – Liberty, Miss Abigail’s Flower Shop – Rock Hill and Callicoon Wine Merchant – Callicoon

Wrapping up the celebration weekend on Saturday February 14 starting at 7:00 p.m., Jeffersonville JEMS will be hosting a Valentine’s Day dance party at Mullally’s Pub on Main Street in Jeffersonville, with a special dedication and gift to WJFF. Everyone is welcome to bring their dancing shoes and help make the night a memorable one.

WJFF’s Anniversary celebrations continue all year with a jazz cocktail party in New York City in April, an outdoor summer concert in Jeffersonville, a Gala dinner in September, a Holiday Cabaret in December and many more special events. For more information and an up-to-date schedule, visit www.wjffradio.org.

WJFF, Radio Catskill, is a hydro-powered volunteer-driven public radio station based in Jeffersonville , NY and with a satellite studio in Honesdale , PA. Its contingent of more than 100 volunteers provide listeners with a mix of both locally and nationally produced programming on the air at 90.5 FM and streamed live and archived at www.wjffradio.org.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 2, 2015) – Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Cayuga, Chenango, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Otsego, Seneca, Sullivan Counties

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Wind Chill Advisory…Which Is In Effect until 10 AM EST Tuesday. Winter Storm Warning Is Cancelled…

Locations…Central New York.

Hazards…Very Cold Temperatures.

Wind Chill Readings…Minus 15 To Minus 24.

Winds…Northwest At 6 To 12 Mph.* Timing…10 PM Tonight Until 10 AM Tuesday Morning.

Temperatures…Minus 3 To Minus 15.

A Wind Chill Advisory Is Issued When Winds Combine With Very Cold Temperatures To Create Dangerous Conditions For Exposed Skin. The Wind Chill Is Expected To Be Cold Enough To Cause Frostbite In About 30 Minutes Or Less…And Could Lead To Hypothermia If Precautions Are Not Taken. Those Planning To Venture Outdoors Should Use Common Sense And Dress Warmly…Making Sure That All Exposed Skin Is Covered.

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TOWN OF FALLSBURG, NY (February 1, 2015) – The Hurleyville Fire Department in cooperation with the Town of Fallsburg Youth Commission will  be holding the 27th Annual Ice Fishing Contest on Saturday, February 14.

The contest will take place on Morningside Lake off of Brickman Road in Hurleyville from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Registration will take place the day of the contest at the lake.

Registration is $5.00 for adults and free for those 15 and under.

The Hurleyville Fire Department will hold their annual Super Raffle that day with prizes of two 32” flat screen TVs, a mountain bike, Bar-B-Q gas grill or a Keurig coffee maker, and other great prizes.

Refreshments and bait will be available. Drill holes will be provided if needed.

There will be an adult and youth division with trophies for first, second and third in the following categories: perch, pan fish, bullhead, walleye and pickerel. All fish must be legally caught and of legal size.

A special Firemen’s Contest, The Rich Farquhar Memorial Chief’s Cup, will go to the top firemen’s fishing team. A team can be one, ten, or as many that shows up. All team members must belong to the same fire department. As in the past the cup is passed from year to year to the winning team. There is also a first, second and third place team trophy in the fireman’s contest.

Last year’s winner, the Monticello Fire Department will be out in full force to defend the cup that they won. It is likely that past champions, Smallwood Mongaup Valley, Neversink and the Loch Sheldrake Fire Departments, will be there in force to try and fish it away.

This past fall, over 1200 walleye were stocked in the Morningside Lake. Over 10,000 walleye were put into the lake in the last 10 years by the Town of Fallsburg and the Hurleyville and Loch Sheldrake Fire Departments.

For more information contact J.W. Halchak at 845-436-5418, by email at P.O. Box 24, Hurleyville, NY 12747 or by email at jampond@hvc.rr.com. Or call call George Price at 845-434-3475.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY (January 31, 2015) — Issued By: NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions: Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Schuyler, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Yates Counties

Winter Storm Warning In Effect From 4 PM Sunday To 4 PM EST Monday…The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter Storm Warning For Heavy Snow…Which Is In Effect From 4 PM Sunday To 4 PM EST Monday.

Locations…The Upper Susquehanna And Finger Lakes Regions Ofnew York…The Western Catskills…And The Twin Tiers Ofsouthern New York And Northern Pennsylvania.

Hazards…Heavy Snow.* Accumulations…Storm Totals Of 8 To 12 Inches…With Locally Higher Amounts Possible.

Timing…Steady Light Snow Will Overspread The Region During The Late Afternoon And Early Evening Hours On Sunday…Generally Between 4 And 8 PM.

The Heaviest Snow Will Fall From Late Sunday night Through Midday Monday…When Snowfall Rates Of 1 To 2 inches Per Hour Are Possible. Snow Will Gradually Taper Off By Mid To Late Afternoon On Monday.

Temperatures…Mostly Ranging From 15 To 25 Degrees…The Falling To 5 To 15 Above By Late Monday Afternoon.

Winds…Northeast 5 To 10 Mph.

Impacts…Slippery Travel Conditions From Snow Covered Roads And Walkways.

A Winter Storm Warning Means Significant Amounts Of Snow…Sleet…And Ice Are Expected Or Occurring. This Will Make Travel Very Hazardous Or Impossible.

Please Report Snowfall And/Or Ice Amounts To The National Weather Service By Calling Toll Free At 1-888-603-1402…Or By Email bgm.Stormreport@Noaa.Gov.

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NEW YORK STATE (January 30, 2015) –New York State Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services John P. Melville urges New Yorkers to take appropriate precautions as dangerously cold temperatures and oppressive wind chills are forecast for communities throughout Upstate New York, beginning later today and continuing through next week.

Wind Chill Warnings and Advisories are in effect in several areas across New York State. Temperatures will fall today, reaching single digits by late afternoon with subzero wind chills in certain communities. Temperatures will plummet overnight tonight, in some areas even reaching 10 to 20 degrees below zero. Wind chill readings may also reach -30F to -40F overnight with wind speeds of 10 to 20 mph. This pattern of bitterly cold temperatures could last though late morning or early afternoon on Saturday.

“With freezing temperatures and high winds impacting communities across the State, I urge all New Yorkers to take appropriate precautions in order to keep their families safe,” Melville said. “This frigid weather can easily lead to dangerous situations, and I urge everyone to remain safe throughout the weekend.

“Wind chill temperatures below 20 degrees and colder can lead to frostbite on exposed skin in less than 30 minutes and frostbite can set in in less than 15 minutes when wind chills reach 30 degree below zero and colder, “ Melville said. Your home, vehicles, the elderly and your pets will require extra attention.”

Melville offered the following safety tips:

· Sub-zero conditions over several days can cause many types of problems, from frozen water pipes to dangers caused by inadequate care when using alternative heating sources such as woodstoves, fireplaces and kerosene heaters.  Follow proper safety precautions when using alternate heating sources.

· Pay attention to the news for official, up-to-date information on weather conditions.  The best way to receive emergency information is by subscribing to NY-ALERT, the State’s free alert and notification system, at www.nyalert.gov. The NY-Alert Smartphone app is available athttp://www.ialertz.com.

· Dress appropriately by wearing loose, lightweight, warm clothing in several layers.  Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent and hooded.  Always wear a hat or cap on your head.  Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from extreme cold.  Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves because fingers maintain more warmth when they touch each other.

· Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, especially in children and the elderly.  Watch for the following symptoms: inability to concentrate, poor coordination, slurred speech, drowsiness, exhaustion, and/or uncontrollable shivering, following by a sudden lack of shivering.  If a person’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, get emergency medical assistance immediately.  Remove wet clothing, wrap the victim in warm blankets, and give warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated liquids until help arrives.

· Frostbite can occur when working or playing outdoors during the winter.  In the early stages of frostbite, there is no pain.  Watch for danger signs: skin may feel numb and become flushed, and then turn white or grayish-yellow; frostbitten skin feels cold to the touch.  If frostbite is suspected, move the victim to a warm area.  Cover the affected area with something warm and dry.  Never rub it!  Get to a doctor or hospital as quickly as possible.

· Prevent pipes from freezing by turning on both hot and cold water faucets slightly, preferably in a basement sink – running water will not freeze as quickly.  Open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to non-insulated pipes under a sink or appliance near an outer wall.  If you plan to leave your residence, drain and shut off the water system (except indoor sprinkler systems).

· If your pipes burst, make sure you and your family knows how to shut off the water.  Stopping water flow minimizes damage to your home.  Call a plumber and contact your insurance agent.  Never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch.  Always be careful of the potential for electric shock in and around standing water.

· If you should lose power, turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored.  Leave one light on to indicate power has been restored.  Make sure fuel space heaters are used with proper ventilation.  Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to help reduce food spoilage.

· Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent, deadly killer claiming about 1,000 lives each year in the United States.  Such common items as automotive exhaust, home heating systems and obstructed chimneys can produce the colorless, odorless gas.  The gas can also be produced by poorly vented generators, kerosene heaters, gas grills and other items used for cooking and heating when used improperly during the winter months.  Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include sleepiness, headaches and dizziness.  If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, ventilate the area and get to a hospital immediately.

· When using a generator, never run it indoors.  Deadly carbon monoxide gas from the generators exhaust can spread throughout enclosed spaces.  Run generators outside, downwind of structures.  Install a carbon monoxide detector.  Keep children away from generators at all times.

· When using a kerosene heater, follow the manufacturers’ instructions.  Use only the correct fuel for your unit.  Refuel outdoors only when the unit is cool.  When using the heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.

· Stock up on emergency supplies, including flashlights, a portable, battery-operated radio, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit.

· Make sure your automobile is properly winterized.  Keep the gas tank at least half-full.  Keep the following items in your car: blankets, extra clothing, flashlight, spare batteries, windshield scraper, shovel, towrope, and jumper cables.

For more information on winter safety visit the DHSES website  or follow on Twitter at @NYSDHSES or Facebook at www.facebook.com/NYSDHSES.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS, (January 30, 2015) –Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Broome, Chemung, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Yates Counties

…Wind Chill Advisory In Effect From 7 PM This Evening To 11 AM EST  Saturday…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Windchill Advisory…Which Is In Effect From 7 PM This Evening To11 AM EST Saturday.

* Locations…Central New York And Northeast Pennsylvania.

* Hazards…Bitterly Cold Wind Chill Temperatures.

* Wind Chill Readings…15 To 24 Below Zero.

* Winds…Northwest 10 To 20 Mph With Gusts Up To 35 Mph.* Temperatures…Lows 10 Below To 10 Above Zero.

* Impacts…Bitterly Cold Wind Chills Will Bring Frostbite Quickly to Exposed Skin.

A Wind Chill Advisory Is Issued When Winds Combine With Very  Cold temperatures To Create Dangerous Conditions For Exposed Skin. The wind Chill Is Expected To Be Cold Enough To Cause Frostbite In about 30 Minutes Or Less…And Could Lead To Hypothermia If precautions Are Not Taken.

Those Planning To Venture Outdoors should Use Common Sense And Dress Warmly…Making Sure That All exposed Skin Is Covered.

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NEW YORK STATE (January 30, 2015) – New York State Police will join local law enforcement agencies across the state in an effort to crack down on impaired driving during Super Bowl weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will include increased patrols on the roadways and sobriety checkpoints to deter, identify and arrest impaired drivers.

"New York State has zero tolerance for impaired driving and for the needless tragedy that it causes," Governor Cuomo said. "Through this STOP-DWI crackdown, we are giving a clear warning to those behind the wheel: drive sober or get pulled over."

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the number of drinking and driving fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by impaired drivers. During the 2014 campaign, State Police made nearly 100 impaired driving arrests. The campaign will be promoted on variable message boards on highways across the state, including the New York State Thruway, and runs from noon through midnight on Super Bowl Sunday. The enforcement crackdown is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico said, “The injuries and deaths caused by impaired drivers are completely preventable. State Police and our law enforcement partners continue to work to keep drunk drivers off our roads every day. Those celebrating the big game this weekend should do so safely- plan ahead or drive sober. Together, we can save lives and prevent serious injuries.”

An impaired driving conviction carries a maximum fine of $10,000, up to 7 years in prison and license revocation.

In 2012, there were 10,322 people killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes in the United States—31 percent of all crash fatalities in the nation.

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NEW YORK STATE (January 28, 2015) – The Student Assembly of The State University of New York (SUNYSA) advocates for almost half a million students that attend the 64 campuses throughout the state.

Making student loans more manageable has been a priority issue for the SUNYSA Executive Committee. As such, SUNYSA is in support of Governor Cuomo’s announcement of “Get on Your Feet Loan Forgiveness Program.” This program will not only assist students with the burden of student loans it also encourages graduates to remain in New York, says the organization.

"The Student Assembly has long advocated for a substantive response to the increasingly serious issue of student loan debt. The governor’s new program is an aggressive move to address what has turned into a debt crisis: $1.2 trillion dollars nationally and counting, with the average New York graduate walking away with nearly $30,000 in high interest indebtedness” states Lori Mould, SUNYSA president. “In addition, we are thrilled to see that our dialogue is being taken seriously and we wholeheartedly support this and similar initiatives.”

For students meeting the following qualifying criteria, New York State will pay the first two years of student loan repayment:

· Attend college in New York

· Continue to live in New York after graduation

· Participate in the federal Pay As You Earn (PAYE) loan repayment program

· Earn less than $50,000 per year

SUNYSA Director of Government Relations, Rey Muniz, III, has been working on the issue of student loan affordability and states,

“The fact that student loan debt has reached such a critical point is a travesty in and of itself. Students are investments not profits and that is something that the governor recognizes in this program. We cannot continue to saddle the up and coming generation with crippling debt; we have to give them a fighting chance. That is precisely what the governor is saying and students everywhere support and appreciate that message.”

About the Student Assembly of the State University of New York

The Student Assembly of the State University of New York (SUNY SA) is an organization comprised of student leaders elected by their peers from across SUNY’s 64 campuses. Empowering students throughout the state, the SUNY SA is committed to student life and ensuring the representation of its members on the state and national level as well as throughout the SUNY system. ###

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WASHINGTON, DC (January 27, 2014) – Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) and Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema (AZ-9) have announced the reintroduction of the Student Testing Improvement & Accountability Act, which empowers state and local school systems by reducing the frequency of federally-mandated assessments in U.S. schools.

The bipartisan legislation was introduced on January 21.

“My constituents have overwhelmingly expressed their concerns with the recent shift in education policy from a focus on teaching to a focus on testing,” said Congressman Gibson. “Parents and educators across Upstate New York know that maintaining this approach will continue to hamstring our teachers and students.”

“My experience as a social worker in Arizona schools for nearly a decade taught me the importance of empowering teachers and parents,” said Congresswoman Sinema. “Teachers should focus on to the content they want their students to master—not simply material for an upcoming standardized test.”

The Student Testing Improvement & Accountability Act replaces current annual testing requirements for math and language arts with the exact same grade-span testing requirements in current law for science classes.

This returns federal testing requirements to the once-per-grade-span standards established before 2001, when math and reading assessments were typically conducted once in grades 3-5, once in grades 6-9, and once in grades 10-12. Under the law, states would retain the ability to exceed federal testing requirements if they seek to do so.

The National Education Association (NEA), which represents 3 million educators across the country, announced its support for the bill.

“The over-emphasis on standardized testing has caused considerable collateral damage in too many schools, including narrowing the curriculum, teaching to the test, reducing love of learning, pushing students out of school and driving teachers out of the profession,” said NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia. “This bill by Rep. Gibson and Rep. Sinema would help put a stop to these negative consequences and help ensure that all students succeed.”

The Student Testing Improvement & Accountability Act was first introduced last year, during the 113^th Congress.

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Photo by Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 26, 2015) – The Sullivan County Visitors Association has extended the deadline on its Winter Wonderland photo contest to allow submissions that include Winter Storm Juno.

Entries will now be accepted through Sunday, February 1, 2015 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time.

The Winter Wonderland Photo Contest is hosted completely online, and allows for submissions through SCVA’s website (www.scva.net/winter-wonderland-contest) and its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SullivanCountyCatskills).

The SCVA also welcomes submissions through both Twitter and Instagram. Users simply post their photo with the hashtag #SCWinterWonderland and include the details regarding where the image was taken.

The Winter Wonderland Photo Contest is the SCVA‘s second online photo contest, focused on the beauty of winter in the Sullivan County Catskills. As of today, it has resulted in more than 1,997 votes cast for the 132 photos submitted.

For more information please contact Sullivan County Visitors Association President Roberta Byron-Lockwood at 845-747-4449, or rbl@scva.net.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 26, 2015) – Sullivan County Manager Joshua Potosek has announced that there are no current travel restrictions for Sullivan County.

For information regarding Governor Cuomo’s announcement on a travel ban for all state and local roads in thirteen downstate counties effective at 11 p.m. use the following link: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-travel-ban-13-downstate-counties-effective-11pm-tonight

County Manager Potosek urges all County residents during the storm to remain indoors and off roadways whenever possible. If residents must drive, they are advised to exercise extreme caution when driving through this storm.

Sullivan County officials are taking appropriate action, to ensure all precautionary measures are being taken, and implementing contingency plans to respond to the demands of the storm. County officials will remain in contact with the towns, village and volunteer first-responders throughout the storm, as they monitor the situations in their own communities.

Residents and visitors are urged to visit the County website, www.co.sullivan.ny.us, as well as the County’s official Facebook page, Sullivan County, NY Government for current news and information. Also, please keep checking the NWS Binghamton website for updates as well as local news outlets for local closings.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 26, 2015) – Sullivan County Manger Joshua Potosek has announced that there are no current travel restrictions for Sullivan County and all County offices are open for regular business hours today.

For information regarding the State of Emergency declared this afternoon by Governor Cuomo please see below.

The County will be updating their website as well as their official Facebook page, Sullivan County, NY Government with closings or delays as well as any press releases.

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Editor’s note: Although Sullivan County is not included in the State of Emergency, we are running this press release as a courtesy to our readers who live in the affected counties, as well as those who live in Sullivan but travel elsewhere.

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Tractor Trailer Ban on Select Roadways to Begin at 4PM; State Considering Full Travel Ban on Roads and Bridges and Suspension of Public Transit in Affected Areas at 11PM

SULLIVAN COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS, January 26, 2015) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has declared a state of emergency for the following counties ahead of the extreme winter storm expected to bring heavy snowfall and high winds: Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster and Westchester and contiguous counties.

In addition, the Governor announced a tractor trailer ban will be in effect on major state highways beginning at 4:00 p.m., and the State is considering a full travel ban on roads and bridges as well as the potential closing of public transit networks in affected areas beginning at 11 p.m. Commuters should pay close attention to advisories as the day progresses and leave work early if possible.

The Governor has also directed all non-essential state employees in counties covered by the State of Emergency to leave work at 3:00 p.m. The Executive Order also includes provisions to help protect the health of New Yorkers by suspending certain regulatory measures in order to help ensure all patients receive their medications and care during this emergency.

“As New York State prepares for a major snowstorm, I am declaring a State of Emergency to ensure local governments have the tools and resources they need to respond quickly and effectively,” Governor Cuomo said. “With forecasts showing a potentially historic blizzard for Long Island, New York City, and parts of the Hudson Valley, we are preparing for the worst and I urge all New Yorkers to do the same – take this storm seriously and put safety first. If leaving work early is an option, I urge residents in downstate communities to do so and stay off roads and our public transit networks as we brace for the storm’s impact.”

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for the greater New York City metropolitan area effective today at 1 p.m. through Tuesday night. The National Weather Service forecasts snow accumulation of at least 1 ½ to 2 feet combined with wind gusts of up to 55 MPH. People in the region should closely monitor weather forecasts and advisories as the storm approaches the state.

The Governor has ordered the activation of the State’s Emergency Operations Center today at noon. The following agencies will be providing liaisons: Agriculture and Markets, American Red Cross, Environmental Conservation, Military and Naval Affairs, Health and Health EMS, Transportation, Information Technology Services, Education, NYSERDA, State Police, Children and Family Services, Fire Prevention and Control, Interoperable Emergency Communications, Mental Health, Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, People with Developmental Disabilities, Temporary and Disability Assistance, Public Service Commission, Thruway, General Services, Port Authority of NY and NJ, Salvation Army and SUNY.

Under a State of Emergency, critical resources that are normally restricted to State use are mobilized to assist local governments and laws and regulations that would otherwise impede their rapid response may be suspended.
State offices in the counties of Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster and Westchester will close at 3 p.m. today, Monday, January 26. A directed early departure for non-essential employees is hereby granted as of that time and employees do not have to charge credits. Essential employees should report to work as directed by management. If an agency has any questions, the agency’s designated representative should contact the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations at 518-474-6988.

On Sunday, Governor Cuomo urged commuters to work from home on Monday if possible, or else plan to leave work early on Monday because of expected road and public transportation closures on Monday and Tuesday. State resources have been mobilized in the region, including the positioning of National Guard, State Police and storm removal crews to strategically respond to the extreme weather event.

Steps taken to ensure readiness in cooperation with the State of Emergency include:

Transportation
MTA Subway and Buses

The subway will run until approximately 8:00 p.m. Service may then be reduced or suspended as the storm intensifies through the evening. Bus service may be reduced as ridership decreases through the evening.

New York City Transit will store trains underground starting Monday during the afternoon and evening peak period to protect the subway car fleet from the elements. New York City Transit stores trains underground on express tracks, so this will impact express service at night and through the overnight hours. Personnel are in place to clear platforms and stairs of snow but customers are urged to use extreme caution if they need to travel.

As conditions worsen, New York City Transit may temporarily suspend service on outdoor, open cut sections of the system (Sea Beach N line Brooklyn, Brighton B/Q line in Brooklyn, Rockaway A line in Queens, Flushing 7 line in Queens, and the Dyre 5 line in the Bronx and Staten Island Railway) to dispatch deicers and snow blowers along these sections where heavy accumulation can occur. If conditions continue to deteriorate, New York City Transit may preemptively suspend service if it becomes increasingly clear that operating trains becomes unsafe for both customers and employees.

Depending on road conditions, bus service may be curtailed as the day progresses. All local buses, including articulated buses, will have chains or snow tires installed by today’s afternoon and evening peak. Articulated buses will be removed from service after this peak. We will continue to operate buses only as long as it remains safe to do so. Paratransit will not be providing sedan service and customers are asked to stay home unless travel involves a medical necessity.

Long Island Rail Road, Staten Island Railroad, Metro-North Railroad and PATH Trains

The Long Island Rail Road, Staten Island Railroad, and Metro-North Railroad may close at 11:00 p.m. as the snow storm intensifies. This decision will be announced by 4:00 p.m., and commuters are encouraged to use these transit networks as soon as possible before the snow becomes heavier.

For commuters who plan to leave work early today, the LIRR and Metro-North will operate early-getaway departure schedules with extra trains departing from Grand Central and Penn Station in the early afternoon. As a result, there will be fewer Metro-North trains than a regular rush hour after 5 p.m., and there may be fewer LIRR trains than normal toward the later part of the rush hour if conditions worsen. Later in the evening, the Metro-North and LIRR may suspend service. Railroad customers should visit MTA.info and monitor MTA email and text message service alerts, or @LIRRor @MetroNorth on Twitter for information about specific train schedules.

The LIRR and Metro-North are activating switch heaters, which keep snow and ice from building up on the movable, interlocking rails where trains switch from one track to the next. With heaters activated, the switches will be able to continue to move and function as the storm progresses. The railroads are also pre-positioning extra trains at key locations to stand by and assist in the event that a train becomes disabled. Station platforms will be pre-salted for the morning rush hour. Snow fighting equipment is in place, and being fueled in advance of the storm. Crews are being deployed to respond to weather-related events such as downed trees, switch problems, or damage to overhead wires on the New Haven Line. LIRR station waiting rooms will remain open around the clock through Friday, January 30.

The PATH is scheduled to operate regular service through this evening’s rush hour. Beginning at approximately 9 p.m. tonight, PATH is scheduled to go to a weekend schedule where trains operate service from World Trade Center to Newark, NJ and from 33rd Street to Journal Square (Jersey City, NJ) via Hoboken every 15 minutes. The weekend service will continue through Tuesday.

Additional changes to PATH’s schedule may be needed if conditions warrant.

Roads and Bridges

A ban on tractor trailers for I-84 from border to border, the Long Island Expressway, and I-287 will begin at 4 p.m. Monday.

The State is considering a travel ban on roads and bridges in affected areas that would begin at 11PM. There will be an announcement on this decision by 4:00 p.m. today. In the event that a travel ban is in place, only emergency vehicles will be permitted on the road.

The State has activated 894 snowplows in the affected region (Department of Transportation: 304 in Hudson Valley & 359 on Long Island; Thruway Authority: 231 between the Hudson Valley and Long Island), and has more than 130,000 tons of road salt on hand. Department of Transportation snowplows are traveling from as far as Buffalo and Watertown to assist in the downstate operation, and the NYS Thruway Authority has shifted more than a dozen snowplows from other Thruway divisions toward the region. All Thruway and New York State Department of Transportation maintenance headquarters will be fully staffed around the clock for the duration of the storm.

Long Island is expected to be hit especially hard by high winds during high tide, posing a limited coastal flooding risk for communities on the North Shore. The State has stationed at least 17 high-axle vehicles to provide assistance to the area.

Airports

Travelers using airports to travel in the region should check with carriers before heading to the airport. As of 12:30 p.m. Monday there were more than 1,000 cancellations between LGA and JFK, and flight cancellations will increase through the day. Substantial flight cancellations are highly likely on Tuesday.

Power

The New York State Public Service Commission will continue to monitor utilities efforts throughout the storm and during the restoration period. Utilities are prepared to respond 24-hours a day to power disruptions and mandated to implement their emergency response plans that have been approved by the Public Service Commission, which includes contacting customers on life support equipment.

Utility contact numbers:
Central Hudson 800-527-2714
Con Edison 800-752-6633
National Grid – Metro 718-643-4050
National Grid – LI 800-930-5003
National Grid – Upstate 800-642-4272
National Fuel Gas 800-365-3234
Orange & Rockland 877-434-4100
PSEG Long Island 800-490-0075
RG&E 800-743-2110

New York’s utilities have a total of 3,943 in-house workers and outside contractors standing ready to assist in storm restoration efforts. Public Service Commission staff will continue to monitor the utilities’ efforts throughout the storm and during the restoration period.

PSEG Long Island is bringing in 400 line workers: 170 from the Midwest and 230 from the southern United States. The workers are expected to be in place Tuesday morning. The company is also bringing in 200 tree contractors; those are expected to be on site late Monday.

Con Edison is bringing in 46 line workers and Central Hudson is bringing in 62 line workers. National Grid is shifting 150 line workers and NYSEG is shifting 80 line workers from western New York to the east.
The New York Power Authority has activated its emergency operations center, which will also be connected to power plant control centers in Astoria at NYPA’s 500 MW Combined Cycle Power Plant and at the Richard M. Flynn Power Plant in Holtsville on Long Island, which forecasters say could suffer the brunt of the potentially historic storm.

All of NYPA’s 16 generating facilities throughout New York State will continue normal operations during the blizzard. NYPA has placed transmission crews from its upstate facilities on standby in case utilities in the blizzard zone need additional personnel to deal with possible outages. NYPA has also asked the 47 municipal electric companies and the four electrical cooperatives it serves to have crews available to aid downstate utility crews in the event of outages from the high winds that are expected to accompany the blizzard.

Public Safety

The National Guard has more than 260 personnel on duty throughout New York City, Long Island and lower Hudson Valley with 78 pieces of equipment including 60 high-axle vehicles. The National Guard is also providing support to the FDNY EMS with 25 of those vehicles and 50 of those personnel. Heavy equipment including 4 front end loaders, 10 dump trucks, and 4 Bobcats are en route to Long Island and will arrive prior to the onset of the heaviest snow later today.
The Division of State Police has had contact with all regional Troop Commanders to ensure that resources and staffing patterns have been identified for the storm. State police in the anticipated affected region, Troops F, G, K, L and Thruway zones T1 and T2, will bring in additional personnel on overtime. Nearly 50 Troopers will be reassigned from outside these areas for storm-related duties.

The State Police are ready to deploy 50 4×4 vehicles, 8 all-terrain vehicles and 8 snowmobiles in the region. Troopers normally assigned to Traffic Incident Management and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement have also been re-assigned to patrol duties for this storm.

Troop Emergency Management personnel have been pre-designated to staff open county Emergency Operation Centers and all emergency power and communications equipment has been tested.

Suspension of Certain Health Care Regulations

The Executive Order signed by the Governor today includes provisions to help protect the health of New Yorkers during the midst of the snowstorm and recovery efforts. The order temporarily suspends some regulatory measures in order to help ensure all patients receive their medications and care during this emergency. The Order takes effect immediately and runs through February 2.
The Executive Order will provide the following for individuals unable to access medication:

· Allows patients to obtain refills of their prescriptions at any pharmacy with a shared database;
· Allows practitioners to issue an early prescription;
· Replaces a prescription for controlled substances that has already been filled; and
· Allows the transfer of prescriptions or medications between facilities if a hospital or nursing home patient must be moved in an emergency, ensuring that their medication follows them.

The order also works to ensure flexibility in the staffing of health care providers. Currently, many health care workers are unable to get to or leave work, creating staffing shortages and causing many employees to stay on for multiple consecutive shifts. Facilities now have the temporarily flexibility to provide adequate staffing until they are able to fully staff their facilities as usual. The Order also provides flexibility for admitting and discharging patients, which will lessen the amount of paperwork and free up staff time.

Home care workers typically must receive timely approvals to continue treating patients, and under this Order, these have been temporarily relaxed so that patients can still receive visits during this emergency from staff that are able to reach them.

Additionally, health care volunteers may assist at any general hospital in the region, even if that is not where they normally practice medicine.

Lastly, medical residents and attending physicians in hospitals may work beyond the normal number of hours and physicians at those hospitals may supervise more staff than normal. All of these provisions in the Executive Order will help alleviate the health care worker shortage the storm has caused.

Governor Cuomo recommends the following tips to citizens that reside in the storm affected regions:

Use Caution If Travel Is Necessary

It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 miles per hour, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Some of the most important tips for safe winter driving include:

· Never follow a snowplow too closely or attempt to pass one. Remember that the highway ahead of the plow is usually snow-covered;
· Adjust speed for road conditions and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles;
· Schedule extra time for winter travel and be patient during ice and snow removal operations;
· Assume that bridge surfaces are slippery, as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces;
· Be wary of black ice, which can be difficult to see but makes conditions slippery when pavement temperatures are below freezing;
· Have a cell phone handy, if possible, but do not text while driving; distracted driving is illegal and becomes even more dangerous during storm events;
· Never venture from your vehicle if snowbound;
· Equip your car with emergency supplies including sand, shovel, flares, booster cables, rope, ice scraper, portable radio, flashlight, blankets and extra warm clothes;
· Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival; and
· Keep calm and do not panic in case of a vehicle breakdown, accident, or if you become snowbound.

Motorists should also include the following emergency items in their vehicles:

· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Charged cell phone and automobile charger
· Basic first-aid kit
· Blankets or sleeping bags
· Extra clothes, including rain gear, boots, mittens, and socks
· Windshield scraper and brush
· Fire extinguisher
· Shovel
· Sand, road salt and/or cat litter for traction
· Tire chains or traction mats
· Basic tool kit, including pliers, wrench, and screwdriver
· Tow rope
· Battery jumper cables
· Road flares/reflectors
· Brightly colored cloth (to use as a flag)
· Road maps

Heavy exertion, such as shoveling snow, clearing debris, or pushing a car, can increase the risk of a heart attack. To avoid problems:

· Stay warm, dress warm and SLOW DOWN when working outdoors.
· Take frequent rests to avoid over exertion.
· If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in the jaw or radiating down the arm –STOP and seek help immediately.

If You Lose Power:

· First, call your utility to determine area repair schedules.
· Turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored. Leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
· If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.

Other Home Safety Tips:

· When removing snow and ice from driveways and sidewalks, stay clear of electric and natural gas meters to avoid damaging them, inadvertently disrupting service or putting yourself in danger. Snow and ice can damage electric and natural gas meters, natural gas pipes and natural gas regulators, so never bury any of this equipment when shoveling, using a snowblower or plowing.
· When removing snow or ice from a roof, never let it fall on electric or natural gas meters or related equipment.
· Natural gas appliance chimneys and vents should be kept free of snow and ice to prevent the build-up of potentially-deadly carbon monoxide.
· Be prepared if you smell natural gas. If you smell that distinctive sulfur-like odor – like the smell of rotten eggs – get up, get out and call your utility immediately from a cell phone or neighbor’s phone.

For more winter safety tips, visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services here.

New York State provides a travel advisory system that features real-time travel reports and road conditions, which can be accessed by dialing 511 or online at www.511ny.org. The web site features a color-coded map indicating which state roads are snow covered, ice covered, wet, dry, or closed to help travelers determine if travel is advisable. It also provides links to airport, rail and transit information.

Thruway motorists are encouraged to sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway. Motorists can sign up for TRANSalerts by following this link:http://www.thruway.ny.gov/tas/index.shtml. Thruway travelers can also get real-time updates by following @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter or by visiting http://www.thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

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Blizzard Forecasted to Bring 2+ Feet of Snow to NYC, LI, Lower Hudson Valley Between Monday and Tuesday

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 25, 2014) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged New Yorkers to prepare for blizzard conditions forecasted to affect downstate areas early this week. New Yorkers should plan in advance for major disruptions during Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes, including the possibility of closed roads and delayed or canceled public transit routes. In addition, New Yorkers should prepare for possible utility outages due to high winds downing power lines and tree limbs.

The National Weather Service on Sunday issued a blizzard watch for the greater New York City metropolitan area effective now through Tuesday night. The National Weather Service forecasts snow accumulation of at least 1 to 2 feet combined with wind gusts of up to 50 MPH. People in the region should closely monitor weather forecasts and advisories as the storm approaches the state.

“With a major winter storm approaching the state, I urge New Yorkers to take all necessary precautions and make preparations for the possibility that commutes will be disrupted on Monday and Tuesday,” Governor Cuomo said. “I have directed all State agencies to prepare for the snow storm and have equipment and resources in areas forecasted to be hit the hardest. We will continue to monitor the storm’s path as it approaches New York, and I urge people to pay attention to changing weather advisories as they prepare for the snow.”

The State Emergency Operations Center in Albany will be staffed beginning Monday at noon, and staff will be on hand at State Emergency Operations Centers in Albany, Hawthorne and Hauppauge throughout the event to coordinate with all the affected counties and New York City. State equipment ready for this storm includes at least 1,806 plows and more than 126,000 tons of salt divided across the region.

National Guard
The National Guard will have more than six dozen personnel and 20 vehicles stationed throughout the region beginning Monday morning for 24 hour operations. The stations include at the National Guard’s Farmingdale Center and Westhampton Air National Guard Base on Long Island, and the National Guard’s Peekskill location and Stewart Air National Guard Base in the lower Hudson Valley.

New York State Police
The New York State Police are ready to deploy 50 4×4 vehicles, 8 all-terrain vehicles and 8 ‎snowmobiles ‎in the region. In addition, the State Police assigned to the anticipated affected region will bring in additional personnel on overtime. These Troop headquarters include Troops F, G, K, L, and Thruway barracks T1 and T2. To assist, another 48 Troopers will be re-assigned from outside these troops for storm-related duties.

Port Authority
The Port Authority is meeting with all of its line departments to make sure preparations are in place for personnel and equipment at all of its facilities. Operations personnel will work 12-hour shifts to ensure that facilities can be operated safely. The airports, bridges, tunnels and PATH also have snow desks where key personnel analyze weather reports and deploy staff and equipment.

With a storm of this magnitude, airlines typically cancel flights in advance, so travelers should check with their carriers to make sure their flight will be taking off before going to the airport. The Port Authority also will have supplies of cots and other essential items ready to accommodate passengers who may become stranded at the airports.

The Port Authority also urges bus travelers to check with their carriers before going to the bus terminals since many public and private carriers may cancel service if conditions warrant. The agency also may impose speed restrictions on its crossings, or close them, if weather conditions warrant.

The Port Authority has the following winter weather equipment and supplies ready at its major transportation facilities:
· More than 200 pieces of snow equipment at its airports, including melters that can liquefy up to 500 tons of snow an hour and plows that can clear snow at 40 mph;
· More than 60 pieces of snow equipment at its bridges and tunnels, including nearly two dozen plows and spreaders at the George Washington Bridge, the world’s busiest vehicular crossing;
· Thousands of tons of salt and sand for airport roads and parking lots, plus thousands of tons of salt for the bridges and tunnels;
· Hundreds of thousands of gallons of liquid anti-icer chemicals at the airports, which prevent snow and ice from bonding to runways and taxiways, plus thousands of tons of solid de-icers, which break up snow and ice already on the ground; and
· Plow-equipped trains, liquid snow-melting agent trains and a “jet engine” plow to remove snow from PATH tracks, and snow blowers, plows and spreaders to clear station entrances, roads that serve PATH’s 13 stations, and various support facilities.

For up-to-the-minute updates on Port Authority crossings, airports and the PATH system, travelers are encouraged to sign up for Port Authority alerts at http://www.paalerts.com/.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The MTA will begin storing trains underground tomorrow night to protect the fleet from the elements. De-icers and snow throwers strategically deployed throughout the region to focus on outdoor areas and open cuts that are the most susceptible to high snow accumulations. Extra crews will be on hand to address ensure safety at stations across the region. MTA personnel have dropped salt, cleared platforms and stairs of snow from Saturday’s storm, and will do so throughout the upcoming storm, but customers are urged to use extreme caution while navigating the system and always hold hand rails.

All MTA buses will have either chains or snow tires by Monday afternoon. Normal bus service will proceed Monday morning and the MTA will make scheduling adjustments as the storm progresses through Tuesday.

Thruway Authority
The New York State Thruway has activated its emergency operations center and will have on hand during the storm:
· 338 snowplows
· 18 snowblowers
· 55 front end loaders
· Approximately 126,000 tons of salt

State Department of Transportation
The New York State Department of Transportation has activated its emergency operations center and is mobilizing additional equipment from around the state, including 162 plows and nearly 388 operators and supervisors, to the Hudson Valley and Long Island to assist in the storm. When the deployment is complete, the Department of Transportation will have 600 plows and more than 1,300 operators and supervisors working in the Hudson Valley and Long Island. The DOT has a total 1,444 plows and 3,629 operators and supervisors available statewide to fight the storm.

The Governor offered the following tips as the storm approaches with high winds and low temperatures:

Use Caution If Travel Is Necessary
It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 miles per hour, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Some of the most important tips for safe winter driving include:
· Never follow a snowplow too closely or attempt to pass one. Remember that the highway ahead of the plow is usually snow-covered;
· Adjust speed for road conditions and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles;
· Schedule extra time for winter travel and be patient during ice and snow removal operations;
· Assume that bridge surfaces are slippery, as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces;
· Be wary of black ice, which can be difficult to see but makes conditions slippery when pavement temperatures are below freezing;
· Have a cell phone handy, if possible, but do not text while driving; distracted driving is illegal and becomes even more dangerous during storm events;
· Never venture from your vehicle if snowbound;
· Equip your car with emergency supplies including sand, shovel, flares, booster cables, rope, ice scraper, portable radio, flashlight, blankets and extra warm clothes;
· Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival; and
· Keep calm and do not panic in case of a vehicle breakdown, accident, or if you become snowbound.

Motorists should also include the following emergency items in their vehicles:
· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Charged cell phone and automobile charger
· Basic first-aid kit
· Blankets or sleeping bags
· Extra clothes, including rain gear, boots, mittens, and socks
· Windshield scraper and brush
· Fire extinguisher
· Shovel
· Sand, road salt and/or cat litter for traction
· Tire chains or traction mats
· Basic tool kit, including pliers, wrench, and screwdriver
· Tow rope
· Battery jumper cables
· Road flares/reflectors
· Brightly colored cloth (to use as a flag)
· Road maps

Heavy exertion, such as shoveling snow, clearing debris, or pushing a car, can increase the risk of a heart attack. To avoid problems:
· Stay warm, dress warm and SLOW DOWN when working outdoors.
· Take frequent rests to avoid over exertion.
· If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in the jaw or radiating down the arm –STOP and seek help immediately.

If You Lose Power:
· First, call your utility to determine area repair schedules.
· Turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored. Leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
· If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.
Other Home Safety Tips:
· When removing snow and ice from driveways and sidewalks, stay clear of electric and natural gas meters to avoid damaging them, inadvertently disrupting service or putting yourself in danger. Snow and ice can damage electric and natural gas meters, natural gas pipes and natural gas regulators, so never bury any of this equipment when shoveling, using a snowblower or plowing.
· When removing snow or ice from a roof, never let it fall on electric or natural gas meters or related equipment.
· Natural gas appliance chimneys and vents should be kept free of snow and ice to prevent the build-up of potentially-deadly carbon monoxide.
· Be prepared if you smell natural gas. If you smell that distinctive sulfur-like odor – like the smell of rotten eggs – get up, get out and call your utility immediately from a cell phone or neighbor’s phone.

For more winter safety tips, visit the NYS Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services at http://www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/publicsafety/winter.cfm.

New York State provides a travel advisory system that features real-time travel reports and road conditions, which can be accessed by dialing 511 or online at http://www.511ny.org. The web site features a color-coded map indicating which state roads are snow covered, ice covered, wet, dry, or closed to help travelers determine if travel is advisable. It also provides links to airport, rail and transit information.

Thruway motorists are encouraged to sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway. Motorists can sign up for TRANSalerts by following this link: http://www.thruway.ny.gov/tas/index.shtml. Thruway travelers can also get real-time updates by following @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter or by visiting http://www.thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 25, 2015) — Issued By: NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions: Sullivan County

…Winter Storm Watch In Effect From Monday Afternoon Throughtuesday Afternoon…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter storm Watch Which Is In Effect From Monday Afternoon through Tuesday Afternoon.

*Locations…Pike County, Pennsylvania And Sullivan County, New York.

*Hazards…Heavy Snow, Blowing And Drifting Snow.

*Impacts…Dangerous Travel Due To Poor Visibility And Snow-covered Roads. Snowfall Rates Of 1 Inch Or More Per Hour Are Possible.

*Accumulations…Potential For More Than 7 Inches.

*Timing…Light Snow Overspreads The Area Monday With initially minor Accumulations. However…Heavier Snow Is Expected Monday night Through Tuesday Afternoon. It Will Be During This Period that The Highest Impact Will Occur.

*Temperatures…Generally In The Teens, Rising Into The 20s Tuesday Afternoon.

*Winds…Northeast Winds Increasing To 10 To 20 Mph, With Gusts over 25 Mph Possible.

A Winter Storm Watch Is In Effect Because Heavy Snow Is A possibility…But Not A Certainty. At This Time…There Is The potential For Snow Accumulations Of 7 Inches Or More. Travel conditions Could Become Hazardous…So It Is Important To Monitor the Latest Forecasts And Statements If You Are Planning To Travel in The Watch Area.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 24, 2015) — Sullivan County Manger Joshua Potosek has announced immediate actions to address the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) application process at the Department of Family Services. Starting this weekend 25 DFS staff members will be working on Saturday and 24 DFS staff members will be working on Sunday to process HEAP applications. There will also be 41 DFS staff assigned to work extended hours starting Monday and continuing through next week.

County Manager Potosek will be receiving updates on a daily basis to ensure that the backlog is addressed up expeditiously. If more staff from County administrative departments are necessary to work in conjunction with DFS staff in processing applications, filing paper work, and answering and returning phone calls, County Manager Potosek will work with departments to make staff available to DFS.

Additionally, the County has engaged a New York State HEAP certified provider agency to assist in processing applications.

All of these actions will significantly reduce the amount of unprocessed applications in a short amount of time. These additional resources will be in place until such time that we have ensured that everyone deserving of heating assistance has received it in a reasonable amount of time.

The County is committed to serving residents in need of services in a timely manner,” said Potosek. “I would like to personally thank the staff in DFS that have volunteered to work additional hours to alleviate this problem,” continued Potosek.

If You Are Applying For HEAP For The First Time You Can Apply:

Online: (Preferred Method)

Visit myBenefits.ny.gov and apply online. Your application will be received by the local HEAP unit at Department of Family Services in Liberty, NY as soon as you submit it online.

In Person

In person at the Department of Family Services office located at 16 Community Lane, Liberty, NY. If you are 60 years of age or older you may also apply at your local Office for the Aging at the Government Center located at 100 North Street, Monticello, NY.

By Phone:

For Information about the HEAP program please dial 2-1-1 or 845-807-0142.

What do I need for the application?
•​A current fuel and/or utility bill or a statement from your landlord that your heat and/or utilities are included in your rent
•​Proof of income for the previous 4 weeks
•​Unemployment insurance award letter
•​Bank statements, interest or dividend statements
•​Pension award letter
•​Copies of Social Security checks or direct deposit statements
•​Business statements for the previous 3 months if you are self-employed or most recent income tax return with supporting schedules.

You may need to bring one of the following for each person in your household:
•​Birth or marriage certificates
•​School or baptismal records
•​Social Security Cards
•​Driver’s license

More information about the HEAP program can be found at https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/

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FALLSBURG, NY (January 22, 2014) – For the past seven years, the Town of Fallsburg Lions Club has been testing children at Sullivan County Head Start for  six different eye disorders.

Known nationally as the SEE Program or Screening Eyes Early, International Lions Club has offered this quality of life changing service throughout the world.

With parent’s consent, children under six years of age receive free vision testing and a digital readout for near and far-sightedness, astigmatism, unequal refractive power, childhood cataracts, and amblyopia or lazy eye syndrome. When discovered before age six, many of these disorders are easily correctible.

In recent months the Fallsburg Lions Club President Patricia Behan approached Fallsburg Superintendent of Schools and Fellow Lion Dr. Ivan Katz about extending the screening service to Fallsburg’s Benjamin Cosor Elementary School in their pre-K and kindergarten classes. After consultation with Principal Mary Kate Stinehour and School Nurse Merrian Hobby, the school District obtained consent forms from thirty-five parents to have their children screened.

The Lions Team included Loretta Speckhardt, Bob Longo, Stephen Miller, Larry Schafman, Ilene and Stuart Wizwer. Digital readings are forwarded to the Ira G. Ross Eye Institute in Buffalo. Results for referrals will go directly to the parents.

The intention for this program is to provide parent consent forms to the school staff during registration for pre-K and kindergarten classes during the summer so screenings can occur every September or October.

If you would like to learn more about this special SEE Program and other Lions Club activities, please contact Stuart Wizwer at 845-434-2152.

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LIBERTY, NY (January 20, 2015) – The public is invited to an educational evening of culture-inspired youth displays and performances representing diverse profiles from around the world.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC)’s 4-H Youth Development program will be celebrating its 27th Annual International Night on Friday, January 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This free program will be held at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty.

Doors open to the public at 6:30 p.m. for an event featuring the work of CCESC 4-H clubs throughout Sullivan County. Each club or group will represent a specific country from around the globe and provide an interactive, three-dimensional display of the geography, history, culture, and cuisine of their chosen location. Participants can “tour the world” from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. and then settle down for the 10 minute skit or presentation each club brings to the stage, highlighting what they have learned.

Community members are always welcome to visit this family-friendly, popular event. More information about this opportunity or the Sullivan County 4-H Youth Development program can be obtained by calling 845-292-6180 or emailing mlr34@cornell.edu.

4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. 4-H Members have opportunities to connect to Cornell University, learn through hands-on activities, lead, be inspired, inspire others, and “Make the Best Better”. Anyone can join 4-H with thousands of other New York State members, volunteers, staff, and funders.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 19, 2015) – Registration is open for the fifth annual Nonprofit Leadership Summit taking place on March 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bethel Woods for the Performing Arts in Bethel NY. Registration is $45 and space is limited. Attendees can register online at:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nonprofit-leadership-summit-2015-tickets-12516227373

This year’s theme is “Working Together for Healthier Communities and Improved Quality of Life.” 

In collaboration with Marist College-Department of Public and Nonprofit Administration, the Summit will bring together hospitals and healthcare providers with the region’s diverse businesses and nonprofit organizations to promote professional development, networking, and tools for collaboration and sharing of resources.

Last year’s Nonprofit Leadership Summit sold out and was attended by more than 140 people representing 80 nonprofits serving the New York region’s diverse needs in human services, arts and culture, education, healthcare, agriculture and the environment.

With workshops in collaboration with the New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON) for the third consecutive year, program sessions will address: the impact of the NYS Nonprofit Re-Vitalization Act; creating nonprofit alliances and partnerships; maximizing web-based media marketing; providing for planned giving; how to prospect research and fundraising; retirement plans for nonprofits.

The 2015 nonprofit summit $5,000 Innovation Award recognizes and honors a nonprofit organization that demonstrates innovation in the areas of collaboration, marketing, organizational operations and programs with a $5,000 award.The deadline for sending a letter of intent is February 1 with the application due on February 13. The application and a detailed description of the award criteria is available at

http://leadershipsullivan.org/nonprofit-leadership-summit.html

For questions, further details, and applications please contact Ms. Irene Jones, Nonprofit Leadership Summit 2015 Vice Chair of the Awards Committee, at 845-701-2532 and by e-mail atnonprofitsummit.awards@catskills.com

Businesses, organizations and community members who support the work of Nonprofit Leadership Summit help to fund the Innovation Award and keep the price of the conference affordable for many community organizations.  For more information about social investment opportunities contact: Linda C. Hartley, President of Hartley Consulting, Inc. and Co-Chair of the Nonprofit Leadership Summit: 718-432-1441 or nonprofitsummit@catskills.com

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LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (January 18, 2015) – On February 7, 2015 the 10th Annual Fly Fest sponsored by Roscoe’s Catskill Flies, and coordinated by Rick Fischer and John Bonasera, will launch the first event of the season at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center.

Fly tyers from all over the Northeast will informally gather and shed their cabin fever in a fly-tying frenzy at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum at 9:00 a.m.  

This annual event continues to grow and brings out the best in fly tying. Fly Fest is a great day to spend with friends and share in the day.

As always a wide array of talented tyers will be on hand to help you learn new patterns. Visitors are encouraged to bring their tying gear and join in the fun.  

It’s been proven that whether a fly tyer sees his shadow or not, there are seven more weeks before another NYS Trout Fishing Season begins on April 1.          

There are more events to follow. The 2015 Activity and Event Calendar can be found at www.catskillflyfishing.org and daily news updates  on www.facebook.com/cffcm.

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