The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (March 3, 2013) – The Sullivan County PBA was recently honored by the New York State Sheriff’s Association at its winter conference in Albany.

The PBA was recognized for raising $35,000 over the past two years for the Sheriff’s Summer Camp Program. The Camp, which is located in the Finger Lakes, serves underprivileged children and runs entirely on donations. 

PBA members competed in the “Cops for Kids” charity event at the Monticello Motor Club taking 2^nd place in 2011 and 1^st place in 2012.

The prize money, which is donated by Monticello Motor Club members, was then directed by the PBA to the Summer Camp.

The award presented to the PBA is named after the late Chenango County Sheriff Joseph Benenati who is regarded as the Father of the Sheriff’s Summer Camp.

Pictured from left to right are Sheriff Mike Schiff, PBA Vice President Jason Gorr, PBA President Kyle Muthig and Undersheriff Eric Chaboty.

Residents of thirteen declared counties – including Sullivan County – may apply for FEMA disaster assistance through March 29, 2013

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (March 1, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that the deadline for residents living in one of the thirteen disaster-declared counties to register for FEMA assistance has been extended to March 29, 2013. The previous deadline was February 27, 2013.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. Residents in the following counties are eligible for assistance: Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Richmond, Rockland, Westchester, Suffolk, Queens, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan and Ulster.

“It is clear that many New Yorkers impacted by Hurricane Sandy are still in need and must have access to disaster assistance and resources to help them get back on their feet,” Governor Cuomo said. “This extension from FEMA will provide impacted residents with more time to get help so they can rebuild as soon as possible.”

The state’s request also included a 30-day extension for individuals and businesses to apply to the Small Business Administration for lowered-interest loans.

Individuals can register online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via smartphone or tablet at m.fema.gov.

Applicants may also call 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Applicants who use 7-1-1 Relay or Video Relay Services (VRS) may call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers operate 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days a week until further notice.

The SBA Disaster Customer Service Center toll-free number is: 800-659-2955 (TTY 800-877-8339). Assistance is also available by sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov or by visiting www.sba.gov.

A simple and fast way to complete an SBA application is online is available at: https://DisasterLoan.SBA.gov/ELA.

FEMA and SBA representatives are available to answer questions at each Disaster Recovery Center. To find the nearest disaster recovery center, use the locator at www.FEMA.gov/disaster-recovery-centers or, with a tablet or smartphone, go to m.fema.gov.

You may also text “DRC” and your Zip Code to 43362 (4FEMA). For example, if you lived in Staten Island, you would text: DRC 10301. Or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

For more information on New York’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/SandyNY, www.twitter.com/FEMASandy,www.facebook.com/FEMASandy and www.fema.gov/blog.

MONTICELLO, NY (February 28, 2013) – Chabad of Monticello in conjunction with the Landfield Ave. Synagogue hosted a party to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim at the Synagogue.

Children from all over the County came dressed in colorful costumes. Rabbis Ben Zion Chanowitz and Simcha Zajac read the story of Purim (Megillah), accompanied with a multimedia slide show, after which the children enjoyed visiting the crafts table as well as preparing gifts of food (Shalach Manos) to distribute to their friends and family.

Magic by Samuel was the entertainment, which included the appearance of a flying dove, water evaporating into thin air, and swallowing of a sword.

Snacks and traditional hamantaschen (triangular shaped pastry) were served and a remote control car was given away as a prize.

Some of the children who attended were members of the newly established Chabad Hebrew School / Talmud Torah.

The day concluded with a Purim dinner and music and dance around the tables.

For more information about the Hebrew School, call 845-397-2404, or e-mail info@jewishcatskills.org or visit www.jewishcatskills.org.

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (February 27, 2013) – The 17^th Annual Celebration of Being a Woman is coming up on Saturday, April 13, at SUNY Sullivan in Loch Sheldrake, NY.

This year’s theme is Finding The Best You: The Confidence Connection. The conference kicks off at 8:15 a.m., and will feature a keynote address, breakfast and lunch, and morning and afternoon workshop sessions.

Women of all ages and interests will enjoy the selection of wonderful workshops, which includes everything from making miniature gardens to understanding the power of crystals; mixing garden fresh cocktails to making quiche; vegan baking to kickboxing.

For a complete list of workshops, including descriptions, interested people can log on to http://www.sunysullivan.edu/events/womensconf.

This year’s keynote speaker is Nancy Lombardo, who has performed her unique comedy from coast to coast. She was a leading member of the award-winning comedy troupe The First Amendment, performing with the likes of Robin Williams and Bruce Willis. She was a comedy consultant to John Leguizamo’s Off-Broadway hit Mambo Mouth and wrote additional comedy material for his HBO Special, The Talent Pool, as well as a staff writer/performer for HIS FOX show, House of Buggin. Her TV credits include The Colin Quinn Show, Saturday Night Live, All my Children, and work for Nickelodeon and the Comedy Channel.

The cost to attend is just $30.00, and includes a choice of two workshop sessions – one morning and one afternoon, a continental breakfast, and lunch. For information, call Hillary at 845-434-5750, ext. 4377.

This year’s Celebration of Being a Woman is sponsored by Catskill Regional Medical Center, JeffBank, SUNY Sullivan and the SUNY Sullivan Foundation, WSUL/WVOS Radio (Watermark Communications), Sullivan County Professional Women, Kohl’s, Catskill Hudson Bank, Ideal Snacks and Thunder 102.

Issued By: National Weather Service, Binghamton

Affected Jurisdictions: Chenango County, Cortland County, Delaware County, Otsego County, Sullivan County

Description:…A Winter Weather Advisory Is In Effect For Northeast Pennsylvania And Portions Of Southern New York Late Tuesday Into Wednesday… .A Mix Of Snow… Sleet… Freezing Rain And Rain Will Overspread The Area Late Tuesday Afternoon Through Tuesday Evening.

Up To Several Inches Of Snow Can Be Expected Along With A Light Accumulation Of Ice. The Precipitation Will Taper To Scattered Rain And Snow Showers On Wednesday. …

Winter Weather Advisory In Effect From 7 PM Tuesday To Noon EST Wednesday…

Locations…Portions Of Central New York. 

Hazards…Snow And Ice. 

Accumulations…4 To 7 Inches Of Snow. Ice Accumulations Of Less Than A Quarter Of An Inch… Mainly Over Higher Elevations.

Timing...Mixed Precipitation Will Start Tuesday Evening. The Heaviest Precipitation Will Fall Overnight. The Precipitation Will Diminish Wednesday Morning.

Temperatures…Upper 20s To Mid 30s.

Winds…Easterly At 10 To 20 Mph With Gusts Of 25 To 30 Mph. * Impacts…Hazardous Travel.

Instructions:A Winter Weather Advisory Means That Periods Of Snow…Sleet…Or Freezing Rain Will Cause Travel Difficulties. Be Prepared For Slippery Roads And Limited Visibilities…And Use Caution While Driving.

Please Report Snowfall And/Or Ice Amounts To The National Weather Service By Calling Toll Free At 1-877-633-6772…Or By Email At Bgm.Stormreport@Noaa.Gov.

(Carol Montana, photo)

Story and photos by Carol Montana

HARRIS, NY (February 25, 2013) – It just keeps growing and growing every year, because the residents of the area and the thousands of visitors who come up to the Sullivan County Catskills have a heart for the Heart-a-thon.

The 35th Annual Heart-a-thon took place on Saturday, February 22, sponsored by WSUL/WVOS radio. Thirty-five years ago, the event was started by then-WSUL owners Dan and Lynn Dayton. It was continued during the reign of station owner Bill Reynolds, when it was held in the lobby of Kutsher’s Country Club in Monticello. And it continues today under the guiding hand of Helena Manzione (at left in photo), General Manager of WSUL/WVOS, who has worked on at least 24 Heart-a-thons beginning around 1989.

The Heart-a-thon is a telethon that takes place on the radio to raise money for Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC). Volunteers answer phones, solicit donations from friends, families and businesses, young children ring bells when donations are $50 or more and every single donation gets read on the air. The radio station provides  the broadcast equipment and personnel, as well as several air personalities. Interviews are done with local celebrities, healthcare professionals, service organizations and individuals who have raised funds for the cause.

In the early days, the proceeds were split between the American Heart Association and CRMC. Now 100% of the money raised goes to the Cardio-Pulmonary Unit of CRMC, which, in  recent years has purchased bedside telemetry units which provides continuous monitoring of heart rate and more.

“There’s a new piece of equipment we’re striving to buy,” said Manzione. “It’s a cardiac treadmill that  integrates with Windows programs, so that when you’re on the treadmill, all of your vital signs go right to the computer, making it easier for doctors to read the results, and to monitor more effectively what’s going on with your heart.” Manzione said the treadmill runs about $10,000 each. “We’re looking to still support the telemetry and we’re adding this piece this year.”

As in previous years, Manzione did not set a goal. “My whole feeling about charitable donations is that it is what it is, and if we didn’t do this event there would be none. … The idea is to look at what we got, not what we didn’t get.”

The tireless coordinator said that every year she is amazed by the amount and diversity of the people that get involved. “We have young people, we have professionals, non-professionals. We had a young woman this morning, she’s not a member of Interact or Kiwanis or anything. She used to do the heart sales with Fallsburg High School. Then she moved to Monticello and took it upon herself in January to start introducing her project to her neighbors, and she and her sisters  raised $583, just three woman going door to door. It gave me goose bumps,” said Manzione. “I asked her what group she was with and she said, ‘We’re not with a group. My grandfather just had quadruple by-pass and I was familiar with the Heart-a-thon from when I was in Fallsburg High School. So I just wanted to do my part.’” Manzione said the young lady set her goal at $1000 and she felt bad that she only had $583. “I said  ‘it’s wonderful you have $583.’ I bet she gets $1000 next year.”

The 2013 Heart-a-thon had three co-chairs: Alan Kesten owner of Monticello’s Yellow Cab, Roberta Byron-Lockwood, President and CEO of the Sullivan County Visitors Association, and Paul Carlucci, Vice President of the Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center in Callicoon.

Carlucci who just finished his second year as co-chair explained how the triumvirate works, “We divide up duties, we meet every week for 10-12 weeks before the event and review our progress, see who’s gotten in touch with who, and who else we need to get in touch with, and that’s how it’s done, piece by piece and little by little.”

Byron-Lockwood (at right in photo), who also was in her second year, confirmed that the three have a good relationship. “We work very well together. If Alan has something that’s going to work on behalf of the team, we all run in that direction. We tag-team and do whatever we can do bring in the donations and encourage our residents to participate.”

Kesten is the senior group member, who just finished his third year. “The reality is that the Heart-a-thon is successful because of 20, 30, 40 people countywide that reach out and raise money. Paul’s been working very hard in the Western end of the county around the Villa Roma, Callicoon and that area. Roberta through the Visitors Association has all her connections and actually people can donate online now because our help from the Visitors Association.  You can donate on their site. I came onboard three years ago because I have the ability to reach out to fire and EMS, and there are 5000 volunteer firemen in Sullivan County and if we got each of them to donate a $5.00 bill … We all bring something different to the table, but we’re all focused on the same goal, which is raising some great money from Catskill Regional Medical Center.”

Kesten says that each co-chair also brings in two to four people who takes turns speaking on the air. And Carlucci mentioned that the Villa Roma staff spends a great deal of the winter asking guests if they want to purchase a paper heart to raise money for the hospital. Byron-Lockwood took up that train of thought, mentioning how proud she is of the tourism industry, which “has been very supportive of the hospital because we realize how important it is, not only for our residents, but also on behalf of our guests and visitors. You never know when you may need the services.”

Danielle Jose-Decker (on phone in photo) a member of two service organizations as well as the Sullivan County Bar Association. She put in a little over two hours answering phones on behalf of the Monticello Elks, the Monticello Rotary and the Bar Association. “We try to do some pledge cards ahead of time and then I take the Bar Association membership list and just start dialing the phone. We have a time slot for each organization, and at our meeting, we make an announcement and try to round up some bodies to answer phones.” And then she summed up the feeling that was so prevalent in the CRMC cafeteria on Saturday. “There’s so much energy here today with all the different organizations and the children helping out. It’s such a high energy place.”

To see more photos or to purchase prints from The 35th Annual Heart-a-thon, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

NEW YORK STATE (February 25, 2013) – Sullivan County pistol permit holders and applicants will now have the opportunity to seal their name and address from public disclosure by filing a completed opt-out form.

The New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act (NYSAFE), which passed in January, allows for those not wishing to have their identity and address disclosed pursuant to a FOIL request (Freedom of Information Law).

The opt-out form must be completed form and returned to the Sullivan County Clerk’s Office by April 18, 2013.

Forms may be found on the Sullivan County website at: http://webapps.co.sullivan.ny.us/DOCS/countyclerk/NYS_Firearms_License_Request_Exemption.pdf

Return completed forms to the Sullivan County Clerk at 100 North Street, Monticello, NY 12701.

For additional information, call the Sullivan County Clerk’s office at 845-807-0411.

New toll-free hotline and website for New Yorkers to report suspected price gouging at stations. State conducting outreach with localities to inspect gas stations to ensure fair practices

NEW YORK STATE (February 24, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that he has directed the New York Department of State and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to work together to ensure consumers are protected against potential unfair practices at gasoline pumps as fuel costs rise across the nation. In response, the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection has launched a toll-free hotline and website for New Yorkers to report suspected price gouging at gas stations.

“As gas prices continue to climb across the nation, it is our responsibility to ensure that New Yorkers are not getting taken advantage of at the gas pumps,” Governor Cuomo said. “While market forces are usually the cause of these price increases, we taking action to protect consumers from any unfair and illegal practices during this time.”

New Yorkers can now report sudden and unexpected increases in retail gas prices by calling the gas pricing hotline at (800) 214-4372.

In addition, the Division of Consumer Protection has also created an online consumer complaint form, where New Yorkers can report suspected price gouging or concerns about improper delivery of quantity. In addition, the website includes tips to help consumers save money at the gas pump. Consumers who wish to file a complaint can visithttp://www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection/consumer_resources/gas_gouging.html.

“If anyone suspects that a gas station may be artificially raising their prices or shorting the quantity of gas paid for, call the gas price hotline and report it,” said Secretary of State Cesar A. Perales. “Getting real time information is critical to putting a stop to this despicable practice.”

Under the Governor’s direction, using a combination of state and local officials, the Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Bureau of Weights and Measures will work with municipalities to inspect gas stations across the state to assure measurement accuracy, promote a fair and equitable marketplace, and ensure the quality of petroleum-based products. The Bureau will also be contacting local Weights and Measures officials to make them aware of the new website and hotline.

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine said, “We fully support the Governor’s efforts to provide a resource for consumers to register complaints that will help avoid unfair pricing at the pumps. As an agency, we are committed to do our part in this process by ensuring that consumers and businesses are receiving the quality and quantity of petroleum products they paid for.”

Across the country, retail gasoline prices have increased over the past several weeks. These price increases are also coming at a time when inventories are recovering from seasonal lows. From January 2 through February 15, Brent crude prices increased $4.56 per barrel, or 4%, and New York State average retail regular gasoline prices have increased $0.21/gallon, or 5.6%, suggesting that much of the increase in prices is due to crude oil price increases. Between February 15 and February 20, the national average retail gasoline price spiked nearly $0.13/gallon, or 3.5%, whereas New York gasoline prices have increased at a relatively lower rate of $0.05/gallon, or 1.3%.

MONTICELLO, NY (February 21, 2013) – Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Scott B. Samuelson and Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau have issued the following statement: 

“Mr. Fanslau and the Sullivan County Legislature have amicably agreed to enter into a Separation Agreement, ending Mr. Fanslau’s position as Sullivan County Manager, effective at 12:01 a.m. on March 2, 2013. 

“The Sullivan County Legislature thanks Mr. Fanslau for his years of dedicated service to Sullivan County, and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.”

Photos from the 2012 Parade by Carol Montana

ROCK HILL, NY (February 20, 2013) – The 3^rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held on Saturday, March 16 at 12:00 noon Rock Hill, NY.

Sponsored by the Rock Hill Business & Community Association, the parade will begin at The Sullivan on Rock Hill Drive and end at I-86 Automotive on Glen Wild Road.

There are still opportunities available to march in the parade.

Line up begins at 11:00 a.m. and the parade steps off at noon.

Local businesses will be displaying floats and regional Fire and Police Departments will be participating.

All veterans, past and present are encouraged to march.

There will also be a marching band, bagpipers, antique autos, horses and many more attractions.

If you are interested in participating either by marching or displaying a float. please contact Gary Budnik at 845-866-3783 or email twcigar@gmail.com for more information.

LIBERTY, NY (February 19, 2013) – Sullivan County residents interested in learning about resources available to local families with children on the Autism Spectrum are invited to attend the Annual Autism Awareness Day on April 13.

The Sullivan County BOCES and the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting the Sullivan County Autism Awareness Day at the Rubin Pollack Education Center on Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty, in the Special Education Cafeteria from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Registration starts at 8:45 a.m.

Keynote speaker is Dr. Michelle Dunn, Director of Clinical Services at the Montefiore Autism Center, located in Yonkers, NY. She is a pediatric neuropsychologist who has worked with children on the autism spectrum for the past 30 years. She is also the author of “S.O.S., Social Skills In Our Schools.” This book provides relevant lessons for children on the Spectrum in an inclusion setting.

The event is free for parents of children with Autism educated in Sullivan County. Parents will also receive a free copy of Dr. Dunn’s book. The Inquiring Minds Bookstore from New Paltz, will have other resource books concerning Autism Spectrum Disorders for sale.

For all other attendees, the registration fee is $25.00. Free childcare and activities will be provided. Pre-registration is required.

To register and for more information, please contact Scott Lederman at 845-295-4040 or scott.lederman@scboces.org.

NEW YORK STATE (February 18, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that New York State has been awarded a $185.8 million federal grant to implement its State Health Benefit Exchange that will make it easier for New Yorkers to obtain affordable health insurance coverage.

“The creation of an easy-to-use Health Exchange is an important step to reduce the number of uninsured New Yorkers and make health insurance more affordable for individuals, families and small businesses,” Governor Cuomo said. “This latest grant is a reflection of New York’s leadership in creating an effective Exchange and will help us to build on the progress we have already achieved.”

New York was one of five states to receive a Level Two Exchange Establishment grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that will facilitate the development of an organized marketplace where individuals and small businesses can obtain affordable, comprehensive health insurance.

The Exchange Establishment grant will provide New York with funding to:

· Build a new, modern information technology system to enable people to apply for and enroll in health insurance on-line;
· Establish a first-class customer service center to help individuals and small businesses select health insurance that best meets their unique needs;
· Train and deploy a statewide network of in-person assistors to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate assistance to consumers;
· Cover staffing resources needed to plan and implement the Health Exchange;
· Implement accounting and monitoring systems to ensure accountability;
· Develop and conduct an evaluation to measure progress toward achieving the goals of reducing both the number of uninsured New Yorkers and the cost of insurance; and
· Create and launch a marketing and educational outreach campaign to help the state realize its enrollment goals.

Open enrollment in New York’s Health Benefit Exchange will begin Oct. 1, 2013, with coverage starting Jan. 1, 2014. The open enrollment period will run for six months. It is estimated that at full implementation, one million New Yorkers will enroll in and obtain insurance through the Exchange, including 615,000 individuals and 450,000 small business employees.

On April 12, 2012, Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order to establish a statewide Health Benefit Exchange. Working with stakeholders, legislators and numerous organizations, the State has made significant progress in the planning and development of the Health Exchange. In all, New York has received nearly $370 million in federal funds to establish the Health Exchange. Additionally, in recognition of the State’s progress, on Dec. 14, 2012, HHS granted New York conditional approval to operate a state-run Health Exchange.

NEW YORK STATE (February 17, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced recently that New Yorkers who lost their jobs or income due to Hurricane Sandy now have an extension from February 4, 2013 to February 28, 2013 to apply for federal disaster unemployment assistance (DUA).

“The physical destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy in New York was unprecedented, and as a result, many New Yorkers have been put out of work,” Governor Cuomo said. “These federal funds will continue to help those who are still trying to get back on their feet, and this extension will allow New Yorkers who may not have been able to apply to get the disaster unemployment assistance that they need.”

Disaster unemployment benefits are available to provide financial support to anyone who has lost their job and live or work in the Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Richmond, Rockland, Queens, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster or Westchester counties.

Anyone unemployed as a result of Hurricane Sandy can submit a claim to the state Department of Labor. The criterion for collecting disaster assistance is broader than for collecting regular unemployment benefits. Specifically, an individual who is not eligible for regular unemployment benefits can collect disaster assistance in any of the following cases:
· Injured in the disaster and unable to work, whether the person is an employee or self-employed.
· Workplace is damaged, or destroyed, or the person cannot work because of the disaster.
· Transportation to work is not available because of the disaster.
· Cannot get to work because they must travel through the affected area, which is impossible due to disaster.
· Scheduled to begin working, but cannot because of the disaster.
· Derived most of income from areas affected by the disaster, and business is closed or inoperable because of the disaster.

Self-employed individuals are also eligible and include small business owners, independent taxi drivers, vendors, independent commercial fisherman, and farmers.

State Department of Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera said, “As I’ve toured the areas hit worst, I’ve seen first-hand that people want to work, want to get back to their lives. This assistance has helped them and we want to make sure that everyone who needs the help gets the help. We urge everyone to contact us before the extended deadline of February 28th.”

Claimants applying during the extended period will have up to 90 days to submit proof of employment or self-employment and will be provided an IRS link to expedite the retrieval of lost or destroyed tax documents.

Federal rules require the state Department of Labor to first determine the claimant’s eligibility under the state unemployment insurance program before federal DUA can be offered.

To apply for unemployment benefits or disaster unemployment assistance, those affected by the storm and have lost their job or income should call the Telephone Claims Center (TCC) at 1-888-209-8124, or 1-877-358-5306 if they live out of state. Applicants should answer the questions to indicate they lost their job due to Hurricane Sandy. In order to receive benefits you must apply by February 28, 2013.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (February 15, 2013) – Join Joan Wulff. Trustee Don Trump Jr. and son, actors Rip Torn and Olek Krupa, Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and hosts the CFFCM Phelan family for the season opener of the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum.

The 2013 Trout Season Opener will be held on the Willowemoc Creek of historic Catskill river charmed circle, just upstream from the CFFCM bridge at 9:30 a.m.

Following the ceremony, everyone will return to the Museum for a hot cup of Agnes Van Put’s famous soups and socializing, where they can view the fresh exhibits for 2013.

This year’s new exhibits will include Canada as the featured international country, NW Pacific Steelhead and their impact on the Great Lakes Fisheries, and Vest Accessories over the years.

At 11:00 a.m. the new Wulff Gallery and the Catskill Rodmakers Workshop will be open for tours until 12:30 p.m.

At the same time Bamboo Mike Canazon and the Bamboo Crew will host a bamboo rod casting clinic and opportunity to cast out the winter cobwebs.

At 1:00 p.m. an intimate Fundraising Luncheon will be held in the new building with the morning’s Season Opener Casting Crew. Reservations are required. For more information contact 845-439-4810 and via e-mail: flyfish@catskill.net.

Due to scheduling, some additional celebrities may be joining the casting crew on April 6.

FERNDALE, NY (February 14, 2013) – The Sullivan County Visitors Association now has Wi-Fi available at their offices located on Sullivan Avenue in Ferndale. 

Visitors to the area can now stop in and access the Internet as well as browse the Welcome Center for brochures showing all there is to see and do in the county. 

“This access allows visitors and guests to connect to SCVA for tourism information, stay in touch with home or business or surf the web for deals in the area,” stated Roberta Lockwood. “It is our way of showing the visitor we appreciate them by making it easier to access the Internet.”

The SCVA has also recently launched a new events calendar on their website. This new feature is represented by a calendar highlighting event titles which can be clicked on to show each event’s details and descriptions and Google map location. The calendar affords tourism businesses and event organizers throughout Sullivan County the opportunity to directly enter events while providing our businesses, residents and visitors with a single source comprehensive resource tool.

The calendar is constantly being updated for visitors and residents to readily access all upcoming events and will serve as the authority resource for what to do in the Sullivan County Catskills. It will be linked to Facebook, and businesses can also link directly to the calendar rather than trying to maintain their own calendars.

To view the calendar or to enter an event, go to www.catskillsocial.com/events or from the SCVA home page by going to www.scva.net and click on the “events” tab.

For more information or advertising opportunities on these new platforms, please contact the SCVA at 845-747-4449 or 800-882-CATS.

NEW YORK STATE (February 13, 2013) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced that New York has joined neighboring states in agreeing to lower the emissions cap established under the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). With today’s announcement, nine Northeastern and mid-Atlantic states have agreed to set a 91 million ton emissions cap in 2014, declining 2.5 percent a year through 2020. The announcement comes just weeks after Governor Cuomo called for a lowering of the cap in his 2013 State of the State Address.

In 2008, New York joined nine other northeastern and mid-Atlantic states in establishing the RGGI, the nation’s first program to use an innovative market-based mechanism to cap and cost-effectively reduce the carbon dioxide emissions that cause the climate to change. RGGI was the world’s first program to auction the emission credits (rather than give them away for free) and invest the auction proceeds in projects that conserve energy, save consumers money and support the transition to cleaner and more efficient production of electricity. Emissions from power plants in New York State are down approximately 45 percent since 2005 and auction proceeds from sale of the RGGI allowances has reduced electricity expenditures and created thousands of green energy sector jobs.

“In the past two years alone, New York and our neighboring states have experienced some of the worst storms in our states’ history, and we can no longer choose not to act on the reality that our climate is changing,” Governor Cuomo said. “The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative has been a tremendous success, reducing emissions here in New York and generating billions of dollars in green investment and economic development. With today’s action to lower the emissions cap under the RGGI program, New York State is once again joining our neighboring states to lead the way in responding to the reality of climate change and working toward a more sustainable future."

The nine Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states currently participating in RGGI have completed a comprehensive two-year program review and released a Model Rule that will guide the RGGI states as they follow state-specific statutory and regulatory processes to update their CO₂ Budget Trading Program regulations.

For more information on the model rule, visit: http://www.rggi.org/docs/PressReleases/PR130207_ModelRule.pdf.

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (February 12, 2013) – On Tuesday, March 5, beginning at 6:00 p.m, SUNY Sullivan will host a panel discussion to examine the recent shootings in Newtown, CT. The event is f

ree and the public is encouraged to attend.

The intense reaction to the Newtown shootings has sparked a national conversation, but is that conversation devolving into simplistic solutions and political posturing? This panel will discuss the multifaceted dimensions of the causes, lessons, and appropriate responses to this tragedy. The presentation will be followed by questions and answers.

Participating in the panel will be:

Dr. Cynthia V. Marcello, Professor of Business & Information Technology
As the developer and director of SUNY Sullivan’s Gaming & Simulation program, Dr. Marcello will address the varying opinions that people hold as to the connection between violent video games and violent behavior in youths. During her presentation, Dr. Marcello will summarize both pro and con arguments and provide summations of findings from several research studies.

Dr. Beverly Moore, Professor of Psychology
Dr. Moore is a licensed psychologist in New York State and has served as Chairperson of the Division of Health, Social, & Behavioral Sciences at SUNY Sullivan. Her work includes a combined seven years of research and teaching within state correctional facilities, and provision of psychological services for sex offenders, both adult and juvenile. Other research interests include neuropsychology and pedagogy as therapeutic alliance. Professor Moore will be presenting on the relationship between criminal violence and persons diagnosed with mental disorders.

Thomas Lambert, Professor of Sociology
Professor Lambert will be discussing how society has balanced dealing with a variety of dangerous issues – including smoking, driving, and alcohol – versus individual and property rights. He will also be discussing how money influences politics and policy, as well as constitutional issues involved in gun control policies.

The panel will be joined by Allison Horan, Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, and will be chaired by Anne Ruszkiewicz, Associate Professor of Liberal Arts & Humanities at SUNY Sullivan.

For more information on this event, please contact James Goldfarb, SUNY Sullivan’s Director of Student Life, at 845-434-5750, extension 4292, or by e-mail at jgoldfarb@sunysullivan.edu.

MONTICELLO, NY (February 10, 2013) – “The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Freezing Rain Advisory for Sullivan County that is effective from 3:00 a.m. Monday morning through 2:00 p.m. Monday afternoon” says Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau.

“A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain will start between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Precipitation will change to just freezing rain by 9:00 a.m., then to rain by midday on Monday. There is a potential for ice covered roads during the morning commute on Monday.

“A Freezing Rain Advisory means that periods of freezing rain or freezing drizzle will cause travel difficulties. Motorists should be prepared for slippery roads. Motorists are advised to slow down and use caution while driving.

“County residents are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

“At this point, all County offices are expected to be open for normal business hours on Monday, February 11, 2013, unless the impact of the storm requires further action.

“Sullivan County Division of Public Works has personnel, equipment, and supplies ready to address the incoming storm.”

MONTICELLO, NY (February 8, 2013) – Nominations are currently being accepted for inductees to the newly-created Monticello Central School District Hall of Distinction (HOD).

This initiative is intended to establish a tradition that honors highly successful graduates, former students and former employees who have achieved distinction, outstanding accomplishment or significant contribution within their school, family, career, community and/or personal lives.

The new Hall will be located in the lobby outside the Arnold Packer Hughes Auditorium at Monticello High School.

The inaugural group of recipients will be selected by the HOD committee in the spring of 2013 and honored at a reception at the National Senior High School Honor Society induction in the fall of 2013.

“The Hall of Distinction inductees will represent the caliber of students who attended the Monticello School District and the contributions and achievements of our former staff members,” said Superintendent of Schools Daniel A. Teplesky. “It will also be a positive motivational force for our current students.”

Nomination forms are available at the MCSD Administration Office, 237 Forestburgh Road in Monticello or on the district website at www.monticelloschools.net. Nominations must be submitted by April 15, 2013. For more information, please call Laura McAndrew at 845-794-7700, ext. 70511.

The Monticello Central School District Hall of Distinction was established by the Board of Education and is comprised of committee members Susan Purcell, Alyce Van Etten, Robert Bellamy, Cathleen Doherty, Jonathon Farrow, Martin Miller, Les Kristt, Lewis Kaufman, Robert Green, Denise Cedeira-Thornton, Dr. Randy Katz, Dana Taylor, Lori Orestano-James, Christine Worthington and Robert Harding.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 7, 2013) – The Great Sullivan County Food Raiser, held at four different locations on Saturday, February 2 brought in close to $12,000 for the Federation for the Homeless and 21 other Sullivan County food pantries.

Non-stop music started at 6:00 p.m. (and even earlier at the Catskill Distilling Company in Bethel) all performed by musicians who donated their time, some at one more than one venue.

Musicians included Elizabeth Rose, Rubber Band, Jazzmosis, Whiskey Bent, Smalltown Sheiks, Stacy & Friends, Yasgur, Gabe the Professor, Allen & Pat, Allison Fox, the New Kings and others.

And sponsors included Crystal Run Healthcare, M&M Auto Group, Ideal Snacks, Jeff Bank, Marshall & Sterling, Linda & Art Charpentier, Don Simkin and Ellen Singer.

At the Sullivan County Museum in Hurleyville, the Americana band Little Sparrow was hosting their monthly Woodsongs Coffeehouse featuring Louie Setzer and the Appalachian Mountain Boys and special guests Anne Loeb and Mike Baglione, and Van Manakas. The venue was accepting food as well as donations. A donation of $5 feeds one person for one day.

Mr. Willy’s restaurant in Monticello hosted Peter Florance & The New Kings, Albi Beluli amd Sommerville, David Rosenberg and others.

And the parties continued at Dutch’s Tavern in Rock Hill and the Catskill Distilling Company in Bethel, with Yellow Cab shuttling music lovers to all the venues.

The brainchild of Stacy Cohen owner of Catskill Distilling Company and the Dancing Cat Saloon, The Great Sullivan County Fund Raiser just celebrated its fifth event.

Cohen was thrilled with the turnout. “It’s fantastic, the quality of music, the musicians all came out, we got more than we planned.” She said that no band has ever canceled even when it snowed, which it was doing on Saturday. The musicians come from Pennsylvania, as well as from Orange, Ulster and Sullivan Counties.

“It really raises awareness,” Cohen said, “because the federal and state funding has been cut, so since we started this, it’s just gotten so much more important.” She mentioned that “everyone asks me why I do it in February. Because there’s one million events in spring and summer and people are dying for something to do in the winter, and we’re open in the winter and so are other businesses, and people are here, so we have no competition and everybody welcomes the night out. … We like the challenge of the weather. … I’m thrilled every single time and every dime goes to food, there’s no overhead on this event, all the musicians play for free, it makes my heart feel good. … I sing better at this event than any other time of the year because of the energy involved.”

Kathy Kreiter, Director of the Sullivan County Federation of the Homeless, who was on hand a Dutch’s Tavern said that attendees were able to donate to any food pantry across the county. “The musicians were fantastic and people just kept coming and going all night,” she said.

The Federation served over 73,000 meals last year. “We’re open for breakfast and lunch, Monday through Friday, and people can take a meal home with them as well. And if they have a children who are in school, they can get a takeout meal for them as well,” Kreiter said.

On the second and fourth Friday of the month people can pick up fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, some type of protein and whatever else we’ve gotten in as donations for the week.

To donate food, call 845-794-2604 to find out hours at the Federation, which is located at 9 Monticello Street, Monticello, NY.

To donate cash, make checks payable to SCFH. If you want the donation directed to a specific pantry only, note the pantry’s name in the memo space and mail to SCFH, PO Box 336, Monticello NY 12701.

More information is available at http://scfederation.org or by writing toscfh@hvc.rr.com.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Fun & Funds for Food: The 5th Annual Sullivan County Food Raiser, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 7, 2013) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau reports that  "The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Sullivan County that is effective from 10:00 a.m. Friday morning through 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning.

Light snow or flurries should develop Friday morning, with steadier and heavier snow anticipated Friday afternoon and much of Friday night, likely starting between noon and 3:00 p.m. Snowfall rates of an inch or more per hour are possible Friday evening.

Storm totals of 8 to 12 inches, with locally greater than a foot possible in Eastern Delaware, Eastern Sullivan, and Eastern Pike Counties.

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet, and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

County residents are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

At this point, all County offices are expected to be open for normal business hours on Friday, February 8, 2013, unless the impact of the storm requires further action. Sullivan County Division of Public Works has personnel, equipment, and supplies ready to address the incoming storm.

Fanslau says, "The incoming Winter Storm will have a major impact on our region, particularly Friday afternoon, Friday evening, and into Saturday. The track of this Winter Storm may warrant the opening of the Sullivan County Emergency Operations Center in Bethel to monitor the impacts and respond accordingly.

Determinations regarding the EOC and whether it will be necessary to declare a State of Emergency will be made Friday morning, in consultation with the Legislature, County manager, Commissioner of Public Safety and Acting Commissioner of Public Works.

Please follow developments of this storm on Twitter @SullivanEOC, and on Facebook at Sullivan County Emergency Operations Center. 

Affected Jurisdictions:  Delaware, Otsego, Sullivan Counties

Winter Storm Warning in Effect From 10 a.m. Friday To 7 a.m. EST Saturday…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter Storm Warning For Snow…Which Is In Effect From 10 AM Friday To 7 AM EST Saturday.

Locations…Otsego County…As Well As The Western Catskills…And The Pocono Plateau. *

Hazards…Heavy Snow.

Accumulations…Storm Totals Of 8 To 12 Inches…With Locally Greater Than A Foot Possible In Eastern Delaware…Eastern Sullivan…And Eastern Pike Counties.

Timing…Light Snow Or Flurries Should Develop Friday Morning…With Steadier And Heavier Snow Anticipated Friday Afternoon And Much Of Friday Night…Likely Starting Between Noon And 3 PM.

Snowfall Rates Of An Inch Or More Per Hour Are Possible Friday Evening.

Temperatures…In The Lower 30S Friday Afternoon…Then Dropping Quickly Into The Teens And Lower 20S Friday Night.

Winds…Northeast 10 To 20 Mph…With Gusts Up To 25 Mph By Later Friday Night.

Impacts…Hazardous Travel Conditions.

A Winter Storm Warning Means Significant Amounts Of Snow… Sleet…And Ice Are Expected Or Occurring. Strong Winds Are Also Possible. 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 1-877-633-6772…Or By Email At Bgm.Stormreport@Noaa.Gov.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (February 6, 2013) 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

…Winter Storm Watch In Effect From Friday Morning Through Saturday Morning…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A Winter Storm Watch…Which Is In Effect From Friday Morning Through Saturday Morning.

Locations…All Of Central New York…And The Far Northern Tier Of Pennsylvania.

Hazards…Possible Heavy Snow.

Accumulations…Potential For 8 To 12 Inches…With Locally Greater Than A Foot Possible Near And North Of The Thruway Corridor…And Also In Sections Of The Catskills. *

Timing…Snow Will Develop Friday Morning…With The Heaviest Snowfall Perhaps Occurring During The Afternoon And Evening Hours.

Snow Should Taper Off Late Friday Night Or Early Saturday.

Temperatures…In The Mid 20S To Lower 30S Friday…Falling Into The Upper Teens And 20s Friday Night.

Winds…North 5 To 10 Mph…With Gusts Up To 25 Mph.

Impacts…Hazardous Travel Conditions.

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.

LIBERTY, NY (February 5, 2013) – Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility recently presented Certificates of Appreciation to three Delaware Valley Job Corps students who completed the Internship Program at their facility.

Deborah Worden, Director of Volunteer and Community Services at Achieve, presented the certificates. “This work-based learning program has been a huge success,” said Worden, “largely in part because of the excellent performance of the students from Job Corps.”

Students received comprehensive training and worked for six weeks at the health care facility, performing various tasks that incorporated their chosen trades.

Worden reported that the students “learned so much and were a pleasure to have at our facility. I would greatly recommend this program to any business.”

Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility offers both short-term and long-term care in its rehabilitation center, featuring physical, speech and occupational therapy in a rehab department, which is open seven days a week.

Achieve’s new Avalon private suites offer hotel-like accommodations with flat-screen cable TV, WiFi, and Internet, optional in-room digital safe, and local and long distance telephone service.

Achieve is located at 170 Lake Street in Liberty, NY for information on the web: http://AchieveRehabNY.com.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (February 4, 2013) – The dining room at New Hope Community in Loch Sheldrake was a sea of purple on Friday, February 1, at the Sullivan County Relay for Life Annual Kickoff Rally and Dinner.

It was a full house at New Hope’s Maxie’s Place, where friends, families and team members gathered to rally support for the June 1 and 2 event at Sullivan County Community College (the site host) in Loch Sheldrake. The rally/dinner was sponsored by New Hope Community. Additional sponsors for the event are: Crystal Run Healthcare (Presenting Sponsor), Hurleyville Fire Department (Tent & Meeting Sponsor), and Thunder 102 (Media Sponsor). Sound music and video equipment were provided by Night Light DJs.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the American Cancer Society and the 17th anniversary of the Sullivan County Relay for Life.

In their introductory remarks, Relay co-chairs Rhonda Hough (left in photo) and Gayle Irving (at right) talked about the beginnings of the event and the purpose of the rally.

Guest speakers included Wendy Stickley-Ocker, the American Cancer Society’s Patient and Family Services Manager; Bronte Hough the 2008 Relay Grand Marshall and cancer survivor; Dr. Manuel Perry from Crystal Run Healthcare; and Tina Eckert, American Cancer Society Director of Special Events.

The Kickoff included a Grand Marshall Recognition, which included introductions of the 2012 Cancer Survivor Grand Marshalls – Penny Carman and Ellen Rose Duffy, and the 2013 Cancer Survivor Grand Marshalls Kara Passante and 4-year-old Anthony Mongiello Jr. Also introduced were 2012 Caregiver Grand Marshall Geri Neumann-Duffy and 2013 Caregiver Grand Marshalls Craig Passante and AnnaRose Mongiello (at left in top photo with her brother Anthony Mongiello Jr).

Following the introductions, the 2012 Grand Marshalls transferred their sashes to their 2013 counterparts.

Emotional speeches were a part of the evening as survivors and caregivers such as Kara and Craig Passante (photo left) spoke about the devastating effects of the disease.

Team and participant awards were then handed out by the co-chairs, and decorated Luminaria bags were placed at the edges of the room.

All survivors were asked to participate in a lap around the room, and the evening ended with everyone present doing one lap as the Luminaria continued to glow with their messages of hope and love.

Irving, co-chair of the Relay for Life for the 4th years, said the purpose of the Kickoff “is to get some teams together and try to bring other people into the Relay, to announce the Grand Marshalls, and try to get the word out. … This year’s Relay for Life will take place in the SCCC courtyard.” She explained that “there are paths in the courtyard that you can walk around. It’s smaller, but we find that it’s very cozy … and lots of places to rest.”

Irving mentioned that “a team can consist of one person or 50 people. … The more teams the better. … It’s a matter of going out there, getting people interested and raising a little bit of money. There’s no minimum you have to raise … It’s so much fun at Relay, we’re one big happy family, we have a ball. … Even if someone doesn’t want to have a team, just come to our event, just come and walk around. There’s raffles, there’s food, there’s games, just see what it’s like. I guarantee, once they’ve been there, it’s contagious.”

The 2012 event raised over $72,000.

To join a team or for more information, call Gayle Irving at 845-985-2696 or 845-701-5319.

You can also go online to www.americancancersocietyrelayforlife/sullivancountyny or go on Facebook, there’s a Sullivan County Relay for Life page, or go on Thunder 102.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Sullivan County Relay for Life 2013 Kickoff Rally, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

LIBERTY, NY (February 2, 2013) – Five members of the media were honored at St. Peter’s Regional School in Liberty, NY during a Communication Day Program as part of National Catholic Schools Week.

Representing radio at the January 31 event were Mike Sakell, Regina Hensley, and Dawn Ciorciari all of Thunder 102, print was represented by Kathy Daley of “The Sullivan County Democrat” and “Catholic New York,” and Carol Montana from “The Catskill Chronicle” was there on behalf of online media. (Photo above by Debbie Totten-Van Wolde)

Led by Principal Lisa Layman, the half-hour assembly and celebration included all 78 students of the regional Catholic School, Assistant Principal Mike O’Kane, five teachers, five aides, the school nurse and the school and church secretaries.

Catholic Schools Week was celebrated form January 27 through February 2, 2013 and included a Catholic Schools Week Mass, a Cultural Diversity Lunch enjoyed by the students and over 35 of their parents who brought foods from Italy, Ireland, Latin America, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean Islands, and other countries to celebrate their cultural heritage.

Mrs. Layman explained the “Service to Others Projects,” which the students take part in. They include the current project: “Warm Hearts, Warm Tummies,” in which the children and staff bring in hot chocolate, tea, coffee drinks and sugar; selling daffodils during February to benefit the American Cancer Society; collecting books for the Literacy Center in May and a food drive for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Food Pantry in October. This past December, a Christmas tree i the lobby was hung with hundreds of gloves and scarves.

To start off the Communication Day Program, the K-5 grade students sang “All Are Welcome,” accompanied by teacher’s aide Debbie Palmarini on guitar. This was followed by Introduction and Comments by Mrs. Layman, who gave a thorough description of each represented organization: Thunder 102, The Sullivan County Democrat and The Catskill Chronicle. She mentioned that St. Gabriel is the patron Saint of Communication Workers. St. Gabriel is the Archangel, who brought the message to Mary that she was going to give birth to Jesus.

“You go out to so many venues and give so much to the community, we need to honor that you for that, you are unsung heroes, St. Gabriel was the unsung hero; he gave the most important message of all and you do that for our community each and every day.”

The students, many of whom were wearing hats made from newspapers, took over the program then with the song “Newspaper Mama” performed by all pre-K students, and a song called “This Little School of Mine” sung by students in K-3.

Each of the media representatives were presented with flowers, a frame with the words to the final song and a copy of all the newspaper articles.

The program ended with 4/5th grade students reading stories they wrote for their in-house newspaper called “The Follower.” Stories ranged from a report on weather to a comic strip and from a report on Catholic Schools Week to why Mrs. Layman is “The Boss.” There was a history of the school, a report on different tablets, an opinion column, a story on Sister Elizabeth Ann Seton, a book corner, a report on food in the lunchroom, and, of course, a SuperBowl story.

A school tour followed the performance part of the program.

Open Houses will be held on February 26 and 28, and there are additional dates in March. For more information call 845-292-7270 or visit St. Peter’s Regional School.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from St. Peter’s Celebrates the Media visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

NEW YORK STATE (February 1, 2013) – At the urging of U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today issued its ruling to eliminate the sale of all junk food in schools, an effort that Senator Gillibrand led as part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Schools Act to reform child nutrition standards that was signed into law in 2010.

“If our children are going to succeed and meet their full potential in the classroom, they need access to healthy meals in the lunchroom,” said Senator Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a leading voice for improving child nutrition. “Eliminating junk food from schools and offering healthier snacks is the right thing to do to keep our children healthy, and on a path to success.”

The Healthy, Hunger-Free Schools Act that Senator Gillibrand fought hard to pass requires the USDA to establish nutrition standards for all foods sold in schools, including beyond the federally-supported school meals programs. The "Smart Snacks in School" proposed rule is the first step in the process to create national standards.

The USDA’s new ruling draws on recommendations from the Institute of Medicine, existing voluntary standards already implemented by thousands of schools around the country, and healthy food and beverage offerings already available in the marketplace.

The USDA’s proposal includes:

· Promotes the availability of healthy snack foods with whole grains, low fat dairy, fruits, vegetables or protein foods as their main ingredients.

· Ensures snack food items are lower in fat, sugar, and sodium and provide more of the nutrients kids need.

· Allows variation by age group for factors such as beverage portion size and caffeine content.

· Preserves the ability for parents to send in bagged lunches of their choosing or treats for activities such as birthday parties, holidays, and other celebrations; and allowing schools to continue traditions like occasional fundraisers and bake sales.

· Ensures that standards only affect foods that are sold on school campus during the school day. Foods sold at an afterschool sporting event or other activity will not be subject to these requirements.

· Allows significant local and regional autonomy by only establishing minimum requirements for schools. States and schools that have stronger standards than what is being proposed will be able to maintain their own policies.

The standards will take effect at least one full school year after public comment is considered and an implementing rule is published to ensure that schools and vendors have adequate time to adapt.

LIBERTY, NY (January 31, 2013) – Do you know someone who deserves to be honored on the Liberty Central School District 2013 Wall of Fame? Applications to nominate individuals are being sought and are due on Friday, February 15.

Now in its third year, the Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame was established by the Board of Education to honor outstanding Liberty alumni and employees as well as community members who have made a lasting contribution to the school district. Nominees are judged on exceptional accomplishments or significant contributions within their school, family, career, community or personal life.

The third group of inductees will be honored at a ceremony and breakfast reception prior to Liberty’s graduation on Saturday, June 22. 

To date, 15 individuals have been inducted – seven alumni, six former faculty members and two community members. Information about each inductee can be found at www.libertyk12.org.

The Wall of Fame is located in the lobby of the David E. Panebaker Auditorium at the Liberty High School. “We are very excited to welcome a third group of inductees to the Wall of Fame,” said Assistant Superintendent and Wall of Fame Co-Chair Carol Napolitano. “Each year it is fascinating to learn about the outstanding people who have been a part of this district. The accomplishments of our graduates, the life-long impact of faculty and staff and the compassion of community members give us a lot to be proud of.”

The nomination application can be downloaded at the district web site or picked up at the District Administration Office at 115 Buckley Street, Liberty, NY. Please call Mrs. Tania DeFrank at 845-292-6990 for more information.

In photo above are the Liberty 2012 Wall of Fame Inductees or their representatives included (L to R) Mary Ippolito-Winston and Kathy Ippolito (daughters of Inductees Steven Ippolito), Joseph R. Lewis, Linda Hinton (sister of Maurice "Mo" Martin, Harry "Mr. Rip" Rapenske, Thomas Nickou and Dr. Austin Frishman. Not pictured were Petra Muccia, who accepted the honor on behalf of David E. Panebaker’s daughters Helen Farrell and Shirley Krum and Jeri Finnegan (Liberty Elementary School Principal, who accepted for Carmela Staropoli).

Monticello, NY – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued the following statement: “The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Wind Advisory that is effective through Thursday evening, and the Flood Watch for Sullivan County remains effective through Thursday morning.

“Beginning this evening southerly winds will gust ahead of the cold front. West winds will develop on Thursday morning behind the cold front and continue into the afternoon hours.

“Heavy rain and mild air are headed for the region. A strong storm system is developing over the center of the country and will push mild air and rain into the region on Wednesday. Some of the rain will be heavy Wednesday evening. This rain, in combination with melting snow, could cause flooding of small streams and minor flooding of the rivers in the region.

“Heavy rain and snow melt Wednesday evening will cause rises in area streams and rivers. The greatest risk for flooding will be along small streams as heavy rain over a short period could cause rapid rises. Main Stem Rivers will also rise but only minor flooding is expected at this time.

“Wind advisories are issued when sustained wind speeds of at greater than 30 mph and/or wind gusts over 40 mph are expected. Winds of this magnitude could cause minor damage to trees, power lines and weaker structures. Persons in the advisory area should secure all loose objects. If you are traveling through the advisory area keep a firm grip on the wheel, especially for those driving high profile vehicles.

“A flood watch means there is the potential for flooding on small streams, creeks, poor drainage, and low-lying areas based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living, working, or driving in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

“I strongly urge our County residents to take preventative measures to protect their property. Outdoor, moveable property should be secured. Furthermore, in case of emergency, all residents in these areas should make preparations to vacate their home if conditions warrant, and are strongly urged to comply with any and all reasonable requests from law enforcement or emergency responders during an emergency.

“County residents are also urged to have enough flashlights and extra batteries, canned goods and bottled water for 48 hours, in case of power outage or emergency. Residents are encouraged to make arrangements to check on elderly neighbors, and arrange for pets to be housed either inside, or with proper shelter.

“Sullivan County Division of Public Works crews continued with cleaning catch basins and ditches today. Loaders and backhoes and gradealls are now located at various locations throughout the County and are ready to respond if needed. This procedure is part of the flood preparation protocol that was established in 2009.

“Sullivan County offices will be open for normal business hours on Thursday, January 31, 2013.

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

Affected Jurisdictions:  Delaware, Otsego, Sullivan Counties

… Heavy Rain And Mild Air Are Headed For The Region… A Strong Storm System Is Developing Over The Center Of The Country And Will Push Mild Air And Rain Into The Region On Wednesday.

Some Of The Rain Will Be Heavy Wednesday Evening. This Rain…In Combination With Melting Snow …Could Cause Flooding Of Small Streams And Minor Flooding Of The Rivers In The Region. …

Flood Watch In Effect From Wednesday Evening Through Thursday Morning…

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued A * Flood Watch For Portions Of New York And Northeast Pennsylvania…Including The Following Counties…In New York…Delaware…Otsego And Sullivan. In Northeast Pennsylvania…Lackawanna…Luzerne…Northern Wayne…Pike… Southern Wayne And Wyoming.

* From Wednesday Evening Through Thursday Morning * Heavy Rain And Snow Melt Wednesday Evening Will Causes Rises In Area Streams And Rivers.

* The Greatest Risk For Flooding Will Be Along Small Streams As Heavy Rain Over S Short Period Cause Rapid Rises. Main Stem Rivers Will Also Rise But Only Minor Flooding Is Expected At This Time.

A Flood Watch Means There Is The Potential For Flooding On Small Streams…Creeks…Poor Drainage…Urban And Low-Lying Areas Based On Current Forecasts. You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Alert For Possible Flood Warnings. Those Living…Working Or Driving In Areas Prone To Flooding Should Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flooding Develop.