The Catskill Chronicle

Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office Races to First Place

MONTICELLO, NY (October 8, 2012) – Monticello Motor Club hosted its 3^rd Annual “Cops for Kids” fundraiser on Sunday, September 23, raising over $40,000 on behalf of local law enforcement. The first place Sullivan County Sheriff’s PBA team included Scott Jordy, Joe Gagliardo, Kevin Rogers and Eric Breihof.

Ann-Marie Sahloff, Executive Administrator for Monticello Motor Club said, “We take pride in the many ways Monticello Motor Club gives back to the community and supports local law enforcement. We support and host a variety of charitable events throughout the year, including our signature Cops for Kids.”

Three teams competed in time trials on behalf of their selected not-for-profit groups. The money raised by Monticello Motor Club members was donated on behalf of the Police Benevolent Associations of the NY State Troopers, Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office and Monticello Police Department to their chosen not-for-profit groups including the NYS Troopers Signal 30 Fund, Sheriff’s Institute Summer Camp and Monticello Boy Scouts Troop 101.

Sheriff Mike Schiff thanked the Monticello Motor Club for their continued support of law enforcement and the community. “From day one, the members and staff of the club have been outstanding partners,” said the Sheriff. “We look forward to working together with them now and in the future”.

The New York State Troopers team came in second place and designated the PBA Signal 30 Benefit Fund as their beneficiary. The Fund supports the members of the New York State Police in extraordinary circumstances such as illness, injury and loss of residences to fires or floods.

"The Monticello Motor Club, under the leadership of Chairman Bill McMichael and President Ari Straus, has once again proven they are friends of the law enforcement community,” said PBA President Thomas H. Mungeer, “especially the New York State Troopers PBA and the Signal 30 Benefit Fund."

Boy Scouts Troop 101 (pictured with their leaders in photo) was sponsored by the Monticello PBA which placed 3^rd in the event. “The Monticello PBA is very thankful for all the support and generosity of the Monticello Motor Club staff and members,” said Brian Monroe, PBA Secretary.

Scout Master Kip Disland said, “Boy Scouts Troop 101 out of Rock Hill NY would like to thank Monticello Motor Club, their members and staff for letting us be part of the 3^rd Annual Cops for Kids event. With the donation we received, Troop 101 will start a Scholarship Fund that will be used to help fund outings for Sullivan County children in need.”

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 7, 2012) – Area teens will be reading for the fun of it as the libraries of the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) are promoting the 15th annual Teen Read Week™, October 14 – 20, 2012.

This year’s theme, “It Came from the Library” dares teens to come to the library and read graphic novels, horror books, fantasy titles and more. During this time period, area libraries will be active with books and programs aimed at encouraging teens to read for pleasure and to visit their libraries for free reading materials. It’s programming and reading and ways to increase adolescent literacy all rolled up into one week-long celebration known as Teen Read Week™.

The libraries in the RCLS service area of Orange, Rockland, Sullivan and southern Ulster counties will join hundreds of other libraries across the country, the American Library Association (ALA) and the Young Adult Library Services Association in the celebration of this year’s theme.

“Teens have more activities to fill their free time than ever – web videos, social networking sites, video games, afterschool activities, athletics and increasingly high expectations in the classroom – and reading gets lost in the shuffle,” says Randall Enos, RCLS Youth Services Consultant. “It’s important that we show them that reading is something that’s fun and relaxing that they can do for free. And that reading for fun can translate into better performance at school.”

A reading habit increases reading proficiency. One of the most important ways teens acquire the habit is by watching adults they respect. Being around adults with a reading habit can counteract the latest statistics from the Nation’s Report Card that indicate that in homes across America the number of different types of reading materials has decreased, and a smaller percentage of 17-year-olds saw adults reading in their homes.

Since its inception in 1998, Teen Read Week™ has focused on the importance of teen recreational reading. Teen Read Week’s objectives are to give teens an opportunity to read for the fun of it, allows teens to select their own reading materials, and to help teens get in the habit of reading regularly and often. This year’s theme, chosen by teens, is “It Came from the Library,” and it is a great theme because it includes so much – spooky stories, mysteries, thrillers and anything else teens dare to check out!

Enos says there are lots of ways teens can “take time to read and drop by their library and dare to read, just for the fun of it.” Here are some tips for teens:

· Visit the local public library to attend a program or to check out books.

· Set aside time each night for your family to read.

· Read on your lunch hour. Pick a table in the corner of the cafeteria or sit outside on a bench and pick up some non-required reading.

· Ask for books or magazine subscriptions as birthday or holiday gifts.

· Surf the Internet to learn about new books or authors.

· Join a book discussion group at the school or public library.

· Keep a book in your backpack at all times. Use it to read while waiting for the bus, an appointment, or for your friends to pick you up.

· Read what you want to read, just for the fun of it.

Enos also offered the following tips for parents. “Be a role model. Let your teen see you reading for fun as well as work. Sharing a book shows you care,” he explained. “If you show books are important to you; that sends a message louder than any words.”

For more information, visit www.ala.org/teenread on the Web or call at 800-545-2433, ext. 4390.

HASBROUCK, NY (October 6, 2012) – A huge community Halloween party will be thrown October 31 at the temporarily renamed Old Stone “Haunted” House of Hasbrouck.

Kids and their families are welcomed from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. both under the rain-or-shine pavilion, and on walking (or perhaps crawling) tours through the historic building itself. There, visitors will come face-to-face with witches, goblins, ghouls and zombies, providing enough scary thrills to easily warrant the $1.00 entry donation.

It’s even possible a genuine ghost does indeed haunt the structure, since this was the site of a mysterious murder back in 1840, after which unexplained events continued to occur for decades.

Outdoors, there’ll be more activities aplenty, all free. These include creepy games for all ages, and storytelling with an eerie emphasis on spirits, spiders, snakes, and frightful bumps-in-the-night.

A costume-judging contest will begin mid-evening, with awards for the scariest and the most original, and pumpkins will be provided for decorating.

There will be a cozy campfire kept ablaze, so enthusiasts of the art can roast a few s’mores, and perhaps a hot dog or two. Those, plus baked goodies and beverages, will be available for purchase on the spot, although bring-your-own is also okay.

The Old Stone House of Hasbrouck – even when it’s not haunted – is at 282 Hasbrouck Road, easy to reach from Grahamsville, Liberty, Monticello and Ellenville. For driving directions and more information, visit the website at www.TheOldStoneHouseOfHabrouck.org.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (October 5, 2012) – Do you know a member of your community who is always there with a helping hand? The go-to person every good cause turns to, because they know that person will help?

Community Unity wants to know your Community Hero.

Each year, on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Community Unity honors the hard-working volunteers of Sullivan County at its Community Heroes Dinner at Mr. Willy’s Restaurant.

People who make a difference in their community should be celebrated and honored for the hard work they do.

So if you know a Community Hero, nominate them for a Community Hero award.  All it takes is a nomination on the Community Unity Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/SCCommunityUnity or a note sent to Community Unity, PO Box 609, Monticello, NY 12701.

Nominations are due by October 12.

Past Community Heroes Award winners include Howard Siegel, Barbara and Richard Sush, Phil and Donna Vallone, Betsy Conaty, Josephine Finn, Steve & Suz White, Fred Stabbert III, Helena Manzione, Stacy Cohen, Perry Gips, Dan and Elinor Young, Aileen Gunther, Federal Cooperative Credit Union, Jeff  Bank, CRMC, Claire Sullivan, Sean & Dawn Boyes, Joseph & April Siegel, Ray & Dorothy Muthig, the Michelson Family and the Garigliano Family.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

BRIDGEVILLE, NY (October 1, 2012) – The Allyson Whitney Foundation and the Brittany Miller Foundation were the beneficiaries of the fundraising event Thunder on the Mountain sponsored by Thunder 102 radio as part of the 2nd Annual Derk Vanwolde Memorial Event.

Thunder on the Mountain took place on Friday, September 28 and was held at Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun Park. The event featured entertainment by Alyssa Startup, Jason Casterlin, Mark Wayne Glasmire and Sean Patrick McGraw, with the Star Spangled Banner performed by the 2012 Texaco Country Showdown Winner Cathy Paty.

The entire Thunder 102 team was on hand including Paul Ciliberto and Michelle Semerano from “Ciliberto and Friends,” midday host Jason Dole and “Sakell in the Afternoon’s” Mike Sakell, along with promotions director Regina Hensley and the “Queen of the Thunderheads, Debbie Totten Vanwolde.”

From the foundation’s website: The Allyson Whitney Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization that empowers and fights for the interests of young adults with rare cancers, by improving the quality of life, as well as providing emotional support for patients. Allyson Whitney Foundation primarily provides individuals with grants to ease their financial burden so that they can concentrate their energy on healing. Donations can be mailed to Allyson Whitney Foundation, Inc., PO Box 586, Rock Hill, NY 12775 or by logging into paypal and submitting a gift to donate@allysonwhitney.org

From the foundation’s website: The Brittany Miller Foundation is inspired by the memory of Brittany Miller, a Middletown, New York girl who on July 31, 1996 – her seventh birthday – died after fighting a spirited battle against brain cancer, As part of her treatment Brittany had to undergo the hour-plus trip to Westchester several times a month for treatments. No local hospitals provided the sophisticated treatments she required. After Brittany was diagnosed with cancer in July 1995 her parents discovered that, in addition to the emotional drain on families in their situation, even families with good medical coverage find that the lodging, food and other miscellaneous expenses can prove quite a hardship. The Brittany Miller Foundation provides financial assistance to families from the Hudson Valley who have children undergoing long-term medical treatment for cancer. Donations will be made to families for "hidden" costs, including hotels, restaurants, tolls, gasoline and other miscellaneous expenses incurred by families who must take sick children to hospitals or other facilities for frequent treatments.

Derk Vanwolde fought a courageous 8-month battle with cancer. His wife Debbie Totten-Vanwolde (at left in photo with Thunder 102’s Regina Hensley) honors his memory with events that raise money for local charitable organizations.

Following are some photos from the event. Additional photos can be found at: Thunder on the Mountain by The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

JUST SLIGHTLY OVER THE BORDER OF SULLIVAN COUNTY (October 1, 2012) – The first-ever “Stone Straightening Day” has been scheduled for Saturday, October 13, at the historic Furman Cemetery on Yeagerville Road, just off Route 55-A.

The Furman Cemetery is located in western Ulster County, near the border of Sullivan County,

The cemetery’s headstones tell stories of many local families, and include names like Terwilliger, Furman, Eck, Dymond and Countryman. Some graves date back to the early 1800s and some, their engraved dates eroded away, may be even older.

The remains of numerous Civil War dead are among them, along with those who fought in both World Wars, as well as other overseas conflicts.

The cemetery also accepted for relocation several remains and markers from valley areas flooded by the Rondout Reservoir over sixty years ago, including the communities of Lackawack, Montela and Eureka.

Now, after decades of rain and snow, numerous Furman Cemetery headstones are tilting badly, due in part to the absence of foundations beneath the older and heavier stones. At a recent public meeting of local residents who manage and maintain the cemetery, the decision was unanimously made to set aside a special day to straighten them.

Adding a bit of fun to what might otherwise be a somber task, the volunteers will grill hot dogs and burgers, add all the fixings, and take a picnic break sometime around noon. Area residents who might have never before visited the site, or even known of its existence, are welcome to come for the work … the free lunch … or both.

Starting at 10:00 a.m. volunteers will use ropes, pry-bars, digging tools, and muscle power to deal with the tilting markers and make them secure for years to come, all the while showing respect for all the loved ones buried beneath.

Those who can’t join the day’s event on October 13 (rain date Oct. 20th) might consider a donation to help the cemetery keep going. Furman Cemetery, Inc. is a community-based non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to the upkeep of the historic and hallowed site.

Contributions can be mailed to Furman Cemetery, Inc., c/o Cindy Mickelson, PO Box 251, Grahamsville, NY 12740.

Additional information, including a list of more than 400 people interred at the cemetery, can be found at the group’s newly-established web site, www.FurmanCemetery.org.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 29, 2012) – Post WW II, there were over 400 egg farms in Sullivan County, NY. New York State was the 3rd largest producer of eggs in the US with Sullivan County as the largest producer.

Today only 2 egg  farms remain.

This documentary website is an informal history of egg farms in Sullivan County as described in the interviews of egg farmers, their children and individuals who worked in the companion hatcheries, wholesalers, starter pullet, meat bird and brooder farms as well as at Inter-County Feed Coop.

Included are photographs of surviving coops and locations, personal snapshots from those interviewed as well as ephemera from trade publications and periodicals, books, postcards and press photographs.

The Sullivan County Egg Basket website can be found at: www.eggbasket-scny.us

Photo by Carol Montana

NEW YORK STATE (September 23, 2012) – The Democratic Judicial Nominating Convention for the New York State Third Judicial District was held on Friday, September 21, 2012 at the Albany Court House. The New York State Third Judicial District in the Third Judicial Department consists of seven counties: Sullivan, Ulster, Greene, Schoharie, Albany, Rensselaer and Columbia.

Stephan Schick, an attorney from Sullivan County, was nominated as one of the two candidates for NYS Supreme Court Justice, 3^rd Judicial District.

Schick’s name will appear on the ballot on the Democratic line for the November 2012 general election along with a Columbia County attorney, Richard Mott. There are two positions to be filled starting in January 2013.

Stephan Schick has been a trial attorney in Sullivan County for almost 35 years practicing criminal defense law for the indigent. He has also been in private practice for over 10 years.

He has overseen the busiest law firm in Sullivan County for over 25 years and has personally represented clients in over 100 jury trials to verdict. He has supervised the representation of litigants in over 10,000 Family Court cases and 60,000 County Court cases. He has been rated “Qualified” in 2009 and in 2012 by the Albany Bar Association and the Independent Judicial Review Committee.

Schick was raised in Ulster County on a small family farm. He graduated from the Tri-Valley Central School District in Grahamsville, Cornell University in Ithaca and New York Law School in New York City. A longtime Sullivan County resident, he currently resides in Grahamsville with his wife Donna Schick, LCSW-R.

After the candidates were selected, Stephan Schick stated, “I am deeply honored to have received this nomination and look forward to serving the People of the 3^rd Judicial District. Over the next six weeks, I am looking forward to visiting the towns and villages in all of the seven counties that comprise the District. I pledge to you that I will work hard to win this election and to serve the People of the Third Judicial District with honor and distinction. ”

Comprehensive Legislation Originally Introduced By Rep. John Lewis In The House Of Representatives Would Strengthen Federal Law On Voting Rights

WASHINGTON, DC (September 21, 2012) – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today teamed up with Rep. John Lewis, a nationally recognized leader often called "one of the most courageous persons the Civil Rights Movement ever produced," by introducing companion legislation in the Senate of the Voter Empowerment Act, authored by a collaboration between Majority Whip Steny Hoyer and Assistant Leader Jim Clyburn, and Reps. John Lewis, Jim Brady, and John Conyers.  The House version of the bill was introduced earlier this year. At a time when numerous states have passed restrictive voter laws, this comprehensive legislation would strengthen federal law on voting rights by modernizing voter registration, ensuring equal access to the ballot box for all Americans and prohibit deceptive practices that predominantly disenfranchise Americans from minority communities.

“We’ve come too far in our nation’s history to re-fight old battles over voting rights that already have been won,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Instead of adding new burdens on voters, we should be giving them new protections. Ensuring that every vote counts is a cornerstone of our democracy that should be embraced by both sides of the aisle. I am honored to work on this bill with a true American hero like Congressman Lewis to ensure that voting is accessible and every American’s voice is heard.”

“It should be easy to vote, as simple as getting a glass of water, in a society that believes in the immutable right of every human being to determine his or her own future,” said Rep. Lewis. “We must eliminate every barrier and impediment to the electoral process to make voting fair, accessible, and an accurate representation of the will of the people.  The vote is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democratic society to build.”

Over the past two years, numerous states have passed restrictive voter laws, including limiting early voting, purging voter registration lists, and new voter identification requirements. With a pivotal election just weeks away, access to voter registration and to the ballot remains a problem of great concern. Approximately three million Americans were turned away from the polls in the 2008 Presidential election alone due to voter registration problems. One in four voters – an estimated 51 million Americans eligible to vote – are not registered.

The Voter Empowerment Act would modernize voter registration, ensure equal access to the ballot box for all Americans and prohibit deceptive practices and voter fraud that keep people from exercising their constitutional right to vote.  The legislation contains three main sections: improving access to the ballot, protecting the integrity of voting systems, and ensuring accountability in elections.

Specifically, the legislation would:

· Open access to the ballot box by: Modernizing the voter registration system, authorizing an online registration option, authorizing same-day registration and permitting voters to update their registration data onsite, providing additional tools to alleviate any additional burdens for people with disabilities, requiring all universities that receive federal funds to offer and encourage voter registration to their students, simplifying registration and ensuring that ballots from all military personnel serving overseas are counted.

· Ensure integrity of process by: authorizing funds for training poll workers and setting standards for polling place practices, requiring provisional ballots be available and counted at all polling places, prohibiting voter caging and designating it as a felony, protecting against deceptive practices and intimidation.

· Protect accountability of result by: establishing a national voter hotline to ensure timely reporting and corrective action of voting related issues, setting standards for voting machines to ensure accurate tabulation and confirmation of voter intent paper copy verification, reauthorizing the Election Assistance Commission to ensure that the highest standards are being met nationwide to guarantee fair elections.

The Voter Empowerment Act is supported by civil rights groups across the country including the NAACP, Project Vote, DEMOS, National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty, FairVote, Common Cause, and National Association of Social Workers.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 20, 2012) – The Catskill Rodmakers Gathering, held annually at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum, has grown from a small group of 15 individuals in 1995 to 170 attendees this year.

This years event was held September 8 – 10 and drew the finest amateur and professional  bamboo rodmakers together from 29 states and three countries.

Similar gatherings, held over the world, are designed to have a place to share and exchange ideas, techniques, and history on the craft of bamboo rodmaking.

In addition to bamboo rodmaking clinics and specific workshops, world expert Jeff Hatton presented a slide show on the world history of fly fishing and Philip Krista and Joan Wulff provided demonstrations on fly rod casting.

This year several returning military Middle East servicemen were present to take advantage of learning opportunities in this craft.

Reel craftsman, Michael Hackney provided a reel making workshop that is a first step in the development of the first Reelmakers Workshop in the future.

The Hudson Valley is recognized as the cradle of American bamboo rodmaking originating in the late 1800’s with the Catskill streams playing an important role as the testing ground to measure quality.

The most famous rodmakers in the world, Leonard, Paynes, Gillums, and Garrison, were students of this delicate craft in the Hudson Valley rod shops. Like makers of fine violins, these rodmakers have a following by those who use them.

This annual event will expand in 2013 as the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum plans on opening The Catskill Rodmakers Workshop and Heritage Craft Center. This new addition, supported by this group, will make this area a destination for rodmakers from all over the world.

Photos by Carol Montana

ROCK HILL, NY (September 19, 2012) – Saturday was a big day in Rock Hill, NY as the hamlet of the Town of Thompson hosted the 84th Annual Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Parade for the second year in a row.

Taking part in the parade were fire departments from Sullivan County, as well as a few from Orange, Ulster and even Rockland County. In addition, there were ambulance corps, marching bands, Boy Scout troops and Brownies, bagpipe bands, NY State Troopers, a K-9 escort, the Sullivan County Sheriff, and other police departments and officials, and slew of antique cars carrying parade marshals.

Here is a sampling of photos from the parade. To see more photos, or to purchase prints from the 84th SCVFA Parade, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

SULLIVAN COUNTY & UPPER DELAWARE REGION, NY & PA (September 19, 2012) – The Delaware Highlands Conservancy and Catskill Mountainkeeper, in partnership with Sullivan County Division of Planning & Environmental Management, the Sullivan County Visitors Association and Morgan Outdoors, are pleased to announce the launch of TrailKeeper.org.

TrailKeeper.org is a one-source outlet for hiking trails and public lands in Sullivan County, NY with easy-to-read, easy-to-access maps and facilities information and guides to hiking safety. From serious hikers to beginners testing their hiking legs for the first time, from moms with babies in backpacks to senior citizens to seasoned hikers looking for a challenge, TrailKeeper.org provides access to trail information that matches hiker to trail.

TrailKeeper.org gives hikers the information they need about locations, routes, and facilities to make hiking safer, more accessible, and more fun. "We are excited to launch this comprehensive, easy to use website. TrailKeeper.org is a great resource that will encourage and inspire residents and visitors alike to get out and explore this special part of the Catskills," says Emily Deans, Agricultural Coordinator at Catskill Mountainkeeper.

TrailKeeper.org promotes and supports the complete Sullivan County experience. When people go out to hike, they stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they shop at local outdoor stores and stop by other local businesses, and if they’re from out of town, they may stay overnight.

Trailkeeper.org is the result of a partnership between the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, Catskill Mountainkeeper, the Sullivan County Division of Planning and Environmental Management, the Sullivan County Visitors Association, and Morgan Outdoors, with support from the Upper Delaware Council, Sullivan Renaissance, the New York New Jersey Trail Conference, the National Park Service, Sullivan County Community College Hiking Class, and many volunteers.

Join the Partners for our first TrailKeeper.org sponsored event, a Fall Hike at Crystal Lake Wild Forest in Fremont, NY, October 14, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Visit www.DelawareHighlands.org for more information.

For more information on TrailKeeper.org, email info@trailkeeper.org or contact Catskill Mountainkeeper at 845-482-5400 or the Delaware Highlands Conservancy at 845-583-1010.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY AND SURROUNDING AREAS (September 18, 2012) – Issued By:  NWS Binghamton (South Central New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania)

Affected Jurisdictions:  Delaware, Sullivan Counties

The National Weather Service In Binghamton Has Issued An * Urban And Small Stream Flood Advisory For… Southeastern Delaware County… Sullivan County… Pike County… Eastern Wayne County… * Until 830 PM EDT *

At 231 PM EDT…Doppler Radar Indicated Heavy Rain Was Falling… And Will Result In Minor Flooding. * Locations In The Advisory Include But Are Not Limited To Margaretville…Bethel…Bloomingburg…Callicoon…Grahamsville… Liberty…Livingston Manor…Loch Sheldrake…Monticello… Roscoe…Wurtsboro…Blooming Grove…Lackawaxen…Milford… Equinunk…Hawley And Honesdale.

As Of 2:30 PM…Rainfall Amounts Have Been Mostly 1 To 2 Inches With Some Amounts Around 2.5 Inches.

More Heavy Rain Is Moving Northeast Into The Area At This Time. Another 1 To 2 Inches Of Rain Is Possible By 5 PM.

Excessive Runoff From Heavy Rainfall Will Cause Elevated Levels On Small Creeks And Streams…And Ponding Of Water In Urban Areas… Highways…Streets And Underpasses As Well As Other Poor Drainage Areas And Low Lying Spots.

A Flood Advisory Means That Although Streams And Creeks May Be Elevated Or Even Rise Out Of Their Banks…Property Damage Will Be Minimal. Inconveniences Can Be Expected But The Flooding Will Not Be Immediately Life Threatening.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 17, 2012) – Once again, Thunder 102 Radio in Liberty, NY stepped up to the plate in the battle against children’s cancer.

The Second Annual “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon” took place on Thursday and Friday, September 14 and 15 and raised over $25,000 for children’s cancer research at the Memphis hospital.

Presented by Middletown Medical and sponsored by Formaggio Cheese Specialties, Yellow Cab, Hilltop Homes and Bethel Woods Center For The Arts, this year’s Radiothon was hosted by Thunder 102 personalities Paul Ciliberto, Mike Sakell, Michelle Semerano and Jason Dole.

Wrangling the various celebrities and accounting for all the “Boot Cards” (donation cards that were available at area businesses) was Al Frangipane, a familiar face at many local charity events (pictured at right with Thunder 102  Marketing & Promotions Director Regina Hensley).

A steady parade of local celebrities, business owners and politicians came and went, bringing donations, prizes for the Partners in Hope (people who sign up to make monthly donations) and good wishes. Included in the photo above are Jason Dole (left), Jennifer Stiglich Desrochers of Momma D and Da Boyz (standing center) and Joanne Geraine from Bake You Happy (right).

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, located in Memphis, TN was opened by Danny Thomas in 1962 as a treatment and research facility devoted solely to children’s cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Research findings from St. Jude are shared freely with doctors and scientists all over the world and help not only children, but adults as well. At St. Jude, families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance.

The St. Jude Radiothons have raised more than $400 million in the past 30 years. To learn more about St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, go to www.stjude.org.

MONTICELLO, NY (September 13, 2012) – Several Sullivan County businesses have come together to help supply community children with needed winter wear.

New and gently used sweaters, coats, new t-shirts, sweatsuits and socks in all sizes will be accepted at The Fitness Factory in Monticello, Carmine’s Meat Market in Monticello, he Kiamesha Post Office in Kiamesha Lake, Progressive Auto in White Lake, and Dutch’s Tavern in Rock Hill.

Together, these businesses and Community Unity K4K, hope to keep every child warm this winter.

Monetary donations will also be accepted, and checks should be made out to Community Unity K4K.

For additional information or to make monetary donations, contact Adrianne at 845-313-0338 or Sherri at 845-313-8473.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 12, 2012) – The Livingston Manor Library Battle of the Books Team placed first at the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) Regional Battle of the Books on September 8 in Pearl River, NY.

Team members Tara Carlson, Khris DiBartolo, Nathaniel DePaul, Gem Helper, Leif Johansen and Jennifer Meade took home $250 and the champions’ banner after competing in three rounds with nine other library teams from Orange and Rockland Counties.

The RCLS Battle of the Books is set up in a game-show format with two teams competing at a time.

A moderator asks 17 questions per round concerning eight pre-selected books.

Each team member has the opportunity to press a buzzer, confer with team members and attempt to answer the question correctly.

This was the second year that the Manor Library competed and the second year that the final round came down to a tie-breaker question. In 2011 Livingston Manor placed second overall.

The Manor team met weekly over the summer to discuss the eight books on the list and practice for the Battle (see title list below).

Young people in grades 6 to 12 are welcome to inquire about participation in the 2013 competition. For more information call 845-439-5440.

~~~~~~~~~

2012 RCLS Regional Battle of the Books – Book List

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac

Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah

Fat Kid Rules the World by K.L. Going

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton

The Notorious Benedict Arnold by Steve Sheinkin

NEW YORK STATE (September 11, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Museum today unveiled an exhibition in recognition of the eleventh anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The exhibition will be on display in the War Room in the State Capitol from September 11th to mid-October and will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 p.m.

The exhibition features artifacts from the New York State Museum, and honors the victims of September 11th and the countless heroes who helped in the clean-up and recovery efforts. New York State’s permanent exhibit to commemorate September 11th – "The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response" – remains on display in the State Museum.

"Communities throughout New York, our nation, and the entire world felt the impact of the terrorist attacks of September 11th," Governor Cuomo said. "This year, on the eleventh anniversary, we remember the thousands of innocent victims and honor the countless heroes who responded on that day and in the months that followed. This exhibition will serve as a way to educate New Yorkers and those who visit our state about the tragedy that unfolded on September 11, as well as remind each of us about the bravery and courage of our first responders. I thank the State Museum for its work in creating this important exhibition."

The artifacts in the exhibit include:

· American Flag recovered from the site
· FDNY Engine 6 vehicle Door
· WTC Facade Aluminum
· Steel from staircase in the towers
· Elevator plaque recovered from site
· Fire hose recovered from site
· Small airplane fragment
· Jacket from NYS Office of Tax and Finance at the World Trade Center
· Badges from NYS Office of Tax and Finance at the World Trade Center

The stories behind all the artifacts are included as part of the exhibition, and a full timeline of the events of September 11th is also present.

State Education Commissioner John B. King Jr. said, "This exhibit is a reminder that we must never forget. We must never forget the horrible attack on 9/11, and we must never forget the remarkable courage so many brave men and women demonstrated on that day. This exhibition is testimony to the strength and valor of our first responders and so many other New Yorkers who responded to the terrible attacks. The State Education Department and the State Museum are proud to partner with Governor Cuomo to bring this exhibit to the state capitol."

With more than 2,000 artifacts, the New York State Museum is the nation’s largest repository of objects recovered from the World Trade Center site after September 11, 2001. Within weeks of the attacks, State Museum staff documented the operations at the WTC site and later spent countless hours at the WTC Recovery Operation at Fresh Kills where all the material was inspected. In the 10 months that followed the attacks, the FBI and NYPD recovered over 50,000 pieces of personal property. The museum also documented the Fresh Kills operation with hundreds of photographs, interviews, and films.

The FBI and NYPD transferred all artifacts to the Museum after they were designated non-essential to the crime scene as neither criminal evidence nor personal property. Items include rescue artifacts, building pieces, everyday artifacts, and other objects from the site. No object collected from Fresh Kills by the State Museum was kept if it could be identified as owned by an individual. Vehicles like a FDNY truck were signed over to the State Museum by the FDNY via a deed of gift by the specific agency. Forty-nine pieces of the two airplanes that crashed into the towers were transferred to the State Museum by the FBI. These include fuselage, interior, and engine parts.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (September 10, 2012) – A group of 12 Sullivan County celebrities came together on Friday, September 7 at the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse of SUNY Sullivan to raise money to benefit Thunder 102 Radio’s 2nd Annual Country Cares for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Kids Radiothon.

The celebrities sought pledges toward that goal, and then shot 10 free throws each. Some of the celebrities had more success than others with Jason White of Jeff Bank getting 9 out of 10. And on the other end of the spectrum The Catskill Chronicle’s Carol Montana scored a big zero.

But, it was all in good fun and ended with a friendly game of “Horse” between The Times Herald Record’s Barry Lewis and Thunder 102’s Paul Ciliberto, complete with a real horse courtesy of Maple Woods Farm.

Celebrity announcer was The River Reporter’s Jonathan Fox, accompanied, of course, by his faithful sidekick, Dharma the Wonder Dog, who, at one point, decided to chase the basketball around the court herself.

At the conclusion of the games, Fox was assisted with the awarding of prizes by Greg Goldstein of the Misner Insurance Agency, and Paul Cilberto and Mike Sakell air personalities on Thunder 102 Radio. Midday air personality Jason Dole was also on hand for the games.

Participants of Hoops for Hope included (in the order of photos below): Jason White from Jeff Bank, Greg Karpinsky from The Wurtsboro Board of Trade, David Depew (son of Coach Depew), Jonathan Fox from The River Reporter, Paul Ciliberto from Thunder 102, Joanne Geraine from Bake You Happy, Jim Boxberger from Monticello Farm Home and Garden, Greg Goldstein of the Misner Agency, Leonard Sparks of The Times Herald-Record, Carol Montana of The Catskill Chronicle, Barry Lewis from The Times Herald-Record, and Ken Kavanagh from the Wurtsboro Hogs.

Here are some photos from the event. Look for a link for the full album at the end of this story.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Celebrity "Hoops for Hope," visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

DEBRUCE, NY (September 8, 2012) – Nearly 50 cars and hundreds of people attended the 2012 DeBruce Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 3.

This year’s theme “Cars, Crafts & Country” featured crafts including wooden toys, doll clothes, soap and handmade dolls.

Entertainment included music with D.J. Frankie Carr and performances by Lorena the Flamenco Dancer, Rainbow Fire Hoops, Grandma Michele, Balloon Art by the Balloon-a-tic and more.

There was a karate demonstration by Axel Robinson, Andrew Helmes and Matt Heintz – three students of Emeric Arus, 10th Dan Karate and former Olympic Fencer, and music by Sullivan County artists Little Sparrow, and Somerville.

The event was a fundraiser for The Livingston Manor Free Library.

Here are some photos from the event. To see the full-sized photos click on this link: 2012 DeBruce Labor Day Parade.

View Full Album

National Weather Service – STORM PREDICTION CENTER NORMAN OK
1130 AM CDT SAT SEP 08 2012

…SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH WIDESPREAD DAMAGING WINDS AND A FEW  TORNADOES EXPECTED ACROSS PORTIONS OF WESTERN AND SOUTHERN NEW
ENGLAND INTO CENTRAL NEW YORK SOUTHWARD ACROSS NORTHERN PARTS OF THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC THIS AFTERNOON INTO TONIGHT…

THE NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER IN NORMAN OK IS FORECASTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH WIDESPREAD DAMAGING WINDS
AND A FEW TORNADOES OVER PARTS OF WESTERN AND SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND INTO CENTRAL NEW YORK SOUTHWARD ACROSS NORTHERN PARTS OF THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC THIS AFTERNOON INTO TONIGHT.

THE AREAS MOST LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE THIS ACTIVITY INCLUDE

WESTERN AND CENTRAL CONNECTICUT
NORTHERN DELAWARE
WESTERN AND CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS
NORTHEASTERN MARYLAND
PARTS OF SOUTHERN AND WESTERN NEW HAMPSHIRE
MUCH OF NEW JERSEY
CENTRAL AND EASTERN NEW YORK
EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA
MUCH OF VERMONT
ELSEWHERE…SEVERE STORMS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE FROM PORTIONS OF THE NORTHEAST STATES SOUTHWARD INTO SOUTH CAROLINA.

THUNDERSTORMS WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP WITHIN THE HUMID AIR MASS NEAR AND JUST AHEAD OF A STRONG COLD FRONT CROSSING PARTS OF THE EASTERN UNITED STATES. THESE STORMS WILL ORGANIZE INTO ONE OR MORE FAST MOVING SQUALL LINES CAPABLE OF PRODUCING WIDESPREAD DAMAGING WINDS AND A FEW TORNADOES. ADDITIONAL SCATTERED SEVERE STORMS WITH DAMAGING WINDS AND TORNADOES WILL ALSO BE POSSIBLE WELL IN ADVANCE OF THE COLD FRONT FROM THE NEW YORK CITY AREA INTO WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS. THE GREATEST POTENTIAL FOR SEVERE STORMS…WITH THE
RISK FOR SIGNIFICANTLY SEVERE WINDS…WILL EXIST WITHIN THE MODERATE RISK AREA THAT INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING LARGER CITIES… HARTFORD CONNECTICUT… NEWARK NEW JERSEY… ALBANY AND NEW YORK CITY NEW YORK… PHILADELPHIA PENNSYLVANIA… AND BURLINGTON VERMONT.

STATE AND LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGERS ARE MONITORING THIS DEVELOPING    SITUATION. THOSE IN THE THREATENED AREA ARE URGED TO REVIEW SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY RULES AND TO LISTEN TO RADIO…TELEVISION…AND NOAA WEATHER RADIO FOR POSSIBLE WATCHES…WARNINGS…AND STATEMENTS LATER TODAY.

http://www.weather.gov/

From NY Alert – Tornado Watch 637 Is In Effect Until 1000 PM EDT For The Following Locations Ny . New York Counties Included Are Albany Broome Chenango Clinton Columbia Cortland Delaware Dutchess Essex Franklin Fulton Greene Hamilton Herkimer Madison Montgomery Oneida Otsego Rensselaer Saratoga Schenectady Schoharie St. Lawrence Sullivan Tioga Ulster Warren Washington

http://www.nyalert.gov/

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (September 8 2012) – While the National Weather Service has issued no warnings for Sullivan County, several of the surrounding counties – including Orange, Dutchess and Ulster – are under extreme weather alerts including high winds, tornado watches and severe thunderstorm alerts.

Stay tuned to a local radio station and check out NY Alert or The National Weather Service for additional information.

Sullivan County:

REST OF TODAYPARTLY SUNNY LATE THIS MORNING…THEN BECOMINGMOSTLY CLOUDY. A SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS LATETHIS MORNING…THEN SHOWERS WITH THUNDERSTORMS LIKELY THISAFTERNOON. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE SEVERE WITH DAMAGING WINDS… LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING THIS AFTERNOON. HIGHS IN THE UPPER70S. SOUTH WINDS AROUND 15 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO 25 MPH. CHANCE OFRAIN 90 PERCENT. TONIGHTCLOUDY WITH SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING…THEN PARTLY CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF SHOWERS WITH A SLIGHT CHANCE OFTHUNDERSTORMS AFTER MIDNIGHT. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE SEVERE WITHDAMAGING WINDS…LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING IN THE EVENING.LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S. WEST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH. CHANCE OF RAIN90 PERCENT.

Wayne County:

REST OF TODAYPARTLY SUNNY LATE THIS MORNING…THEN BECOMINGMOSTLY CLOUDY. A SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS LATETHIS MORNING…THEN SHOWERS WITH THUNDERSTORMS LIKELY THISAFTERNOON. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE SEVERE WITH DAMAGING WINDS… LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING THIS AFTERNOON. HIGHS IN THE MID70S. SOUTH WINDS 15 TO 20 MPH. CHANCE OF RAIN 90 PERCENT. TONIGHTCLOUDY WITH SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THE EVENING…THEN PARTLY CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF SHOWERS WITH A SLIGHT CHANCE OFTHUNDERSTORMS AFTER MIDNIGHT. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE SEVERE WITHDAMAGING WINDS…LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING IN THE EVENING.LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S. WEST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH…DIMINISHING TOAROUND 5 MPH. CHANCE OF RAIN 90 PERCENT.

Pike County:

REST OF TODAYPARTLY SUNNY LATE THIS MORNING…THEN BECOMINGMOSTLY CLOUDY. A SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS LATETHIS MORNING…THEN SHOWERS WITH THUNDERSTORMS LIKELY THISAFTERNOON. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE SEVERE WITH DAMAGING WINDS… LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING THIS AFTERNOON. HIGHS IN THE UPPER70S. SOUTH WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH. CHANCE OF RAIN 90 PERCENT. TONIGHTMOSTLY CLOUDY WITH SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS IN THEEVENING…THEN PARTLY CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF SHOWERS WITH A SLIGHTCHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS AFTER MIDNIGHT. SOME THUNDERSTORMS MAY BESEVERE WITH DAMAGING WINDS…LARGE HAIL AND FREQUENT LIGHTNING INTHE EVENING. LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S. WEST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH. CHANCE OF RAIN 90 PERCENT.

NEW YORK STATE (September 7, 2012) – The New York State Public Service Commission has announced that September 10 – 16, 2012, is “Lifeline Awareness Week.”

The Commission encourages income-eligible customers to sign up for a discount on their telephone service through the Lifeline program. The program provides qualified consumer with discounts for monthly residential phone bills for basic telephone service.

“As part of a national effort, the Commission wants to stress the need to raise awareness of this important and valuable program that provides discounts to low-income New Yorkers for primary residential telephone service,” said Commission Chairman Garry Brown. “Although the program has been in place for over 25 years, many eligible customers still fail to take advantage of the discount offered under the Lifeline program. I hope more eligible New Yorkers will take advantage of this valuable program.”

Under the Lifeline program, wireline customers receive a waiver of the federal subscriber line charge, a savings of at least $75 annually, as well as a discount on their basic local service charge. The total discount varies depending on the local telephone service provider and the program includes some wireless and cellular service providers.

Customers participating or eligible to participate in the following programs — Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Food Stamps, Medicaid, Veterans’ Disability or Surviving Spouse Pension, Family Assistance or the Safety Net Assistance programs — are eligible for the Lifeline program discount for basic residential telephone service.

Additional information and application forms for the Lifeline program are available by visiting the Commission’s www.AskPSC.com consumer web site.

ROCK HILL, NY (September 6, 2012) – The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce will present the Sullivan County Business Expo on Friday, September 28, from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, September 29 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at The Sullivan, 283 Rock Hill Drive, Rock Hill, NY.

The Sullivan County Business Expo is an event designed for anyone who purchases products for any particular industry.

The event will offer a combination of products and expert advice from professionals, while encouraging the average consumer to shop locally.

Whether you are a business owner, long or short term resident, anyone with an interest to purchase products or services within Sullivan County will enjoy the Business Expo. You will also have the opportunity to see the newly renovated The Sullivan (formerly The Lodge).

The Sullivan County Business Expo will allow consumers to meet all of the exhibitors under one roof, discover new, interesting products and services and find the best resources for financial, home or business services and more.

Just a few of the businesses represented are: financial institutions, educational services, retailers, utility companies, building supplies, nonprofit agencies, and direct care/rehab services.

~~~~~~~~

There are limited exhibitor booths still available. There is Chamber member and non-member pricing. To reserve your 6 x 8 space (includes pipe/drape, table & 2 chairs), contact the Chamber office at 845-791-4200 or email chamber@catskills.com

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (September 5, 2012) – It is rare that we get personal on the front page of The Catskill Chronicle, but this is serious business.

Your humble editor, Carol Montana, has been invited to be a "Celebrity (LOL!!) Shooter" for the St. Jude’s "Hoops for Hope" to benefit the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon. Both events are sponsored by Thunder 102 radio. 

The “Hoops for Hope” event takes place this Friday, September 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse at SUNY Sullivan in Loch Sheldrake, NY. There, the “Celebrity Shooters” will  be shooting 10 free-throws. (As if one wouldn’t be enough to show how inept I am – speaking strictly from the point of view of basketball, of course.)

My warning to the sponsors that I went to a Catholic high school that had no sports program was completely ignored, and I’m figuring that I might as well, turn my back to the basket and shoot that way for all the good it will do me.

Realizing that this is a difficult financial time for everyone, I nevertheless make this plea. If you feel moved enough by my agreeing to MAKE A FOOL OF MYSELF to donate anything at all (every penny counts), please write to me at : Catskill.Chronicle@yahoo.com, and I will send you details on how to contribute.

If you’d like to show up and cheer (LOLOLOL) me on, that would be super!!! I’m laughing already. It’s going to be a blast. Hope to see you there.

For more information and directions, you can go to https://www.facebook.com/events/424709644231748/ or Thunder 102’s Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon.

BETHEL, NY (September 5, 2012) –  On Sunday, September 9, the Harvest Festival at Bethel Woods continues with a brand new event,  the Sullivan County Heritage Faire: Revolution to Revolution.

The day will feature interpretation of Sullivan County’s rich history through exhibits, performances, games and more with special guest, county historian John Conway acting as MC throughout the day. 

The day will also showcase on-stage performances by Stephen Jacoby and Fiddlin Around; Special Presentation of Vaudeville in the Catskills; and a performance by Little Sparrow.

The Sullivan County Heritage Faire will exhibit museum and historical attractions in Sullivan County including: Fort Delaware, The Town of Thompson, The Roscoe O&W Railway Museum, The Sullivan County Historical Society with the 143rd Re-enactors,  author Oscar Israelowitz, The Catskill Fly Tyers Guild, Time and the Valleys Museum, Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, The Clarryville Quilters, the Tusten Historical Society, and the Museum at Bethel Woods. The SPCA will also be on site with pet adoption information and the American Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Festival hours are 11L00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; parking lots open at 10:30 a.m. Admission to the Harvest Festival is free, with a $2 parking fee. Pets are not permitted on the Harvest Festival grounds. 

The Festival will also feature its usual array of vendors and activities for the whole family, including the bountiful farmers market, diverse craft village, a children’s area with educational programming, corn and hay mazes, arts and crafts workshops, pony rides and more. This week, the community area will feature great activities for children, including “signing up” for the Revolutionary War and a live Revolutionary War era pup tent with camping supplies.

The Bethel Woods activity will feature the popular “nature-based tie-dye,” of shirts and handkerchiefs and corn husk doll stations, a traditional craft that was made by early settlers of Sullivan County.  Children can also partake in games from that time period and pick-up a transportation timeline that will be available at the Welcome Tent for children to have stamped at various locations of the festival.

NEW YORK STATE (September 2, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Friday that "Jobs Express," a website designed to help New Yorkers who are seeking employment, has helped more than 44,000 individuals find work in the ten months since its launch.

Jobs Express currently has 71,000 jobs openings listed, an increase of more than 10,000 since the Governor announced the site’s launch in October 2011.

"With our state recovering from the national economic recession, the Jobs Express website has been a major success, helping more than 44,000 New Yorkers connect with employment opportunities," Governor Cuomo said. "From day one, my administration has been focused on jobs, jobs, jobs, and with initiatives ranging from the NY Works program, the Regional Economic Development Councils, to Jobs Express, we have moved New York State into the forefront of finding innovative ways to grow the economy and get people back to work."

The site was launched in October of 2011 and posted 60,000 jobs. Since then, with an average of 106,000 site hits a month, employers added another 10,000 jobs. Additional job postings and site hits have resulted in 44,010 New Yorkers connecting to jobs, with approximately 8,000 employers. The Governor today encouraged employers to use the proven results of Jobs Express to post new jobs and connect to skilled and ready to work New Yorkers.

Jobs Express features videos that offer advice to job seekers and an electronic job-matching tool known as "Skills Matching and Referral Technology" (SMART), which generates job leads. The Labor Department updates job listings daily.

The Jobs Express website takes thousands of jobs posted by employers and sorts them by region to help job seekers evaluate what industries are growing in their area and find out what opportunities are available in specific economic sectors. To visit Jobs Express, go to http://www.labor.ny.gov/jobs/regional.shtm.

MONTICELLO, NY (August 31, 2012) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has announced that the rear entrance of the Government Center. will remain closed, due to some construction delays, with a reopening date of Monday, September 10, 2012.

During the remaining construction period, employees and visitors are requested to use the front entrance on North Street, or one of the side entrances to access the Government Center.

The hours of operation of the Government Center will not be impacted, and all offices will be open during normal business hours providing all services.

County offices will be closed on Monday, September 3rd in honor of the Labor Day holiday.

NEW YORK STATE (August 30, 2012) – The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced that nearly 43.7 million people visited state parks and historic sites from January 1 through the last weekend of August – a 2.3 million increase in visits over 2011.

"It is gratifying that so many people continue to enjoy and appreciate the New York state park system year after year," State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said. "New Yorkers are fortunate to have such high-quality and inviting state parks and historic sites across the state, and we hope to see even more visitors have fun at their parks this Labor Day weekend."

Harvey attributed the 5.6 percent increase in visits to great weather as well as a number of well-attended events, including the Bethpage Federal Credit Union Air Show at Jones Beach, a string of sold-out concerts at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Nik Wallenda’s tightrope walk across Niagara Falls in June.

The park system is expecting a busy Labor Day weekend, with over 90 percent of the system’s campsites booked in advance and one last opportunity to enjoy swimming pools and beaches.

"We’ve had a tremendous season so far and we hope that our visitors enjoyed their time swimming, camping, golfing, hiking and sightseeing at our parks and historic sites," said Harvey said. "But the year is far from over and fall is one of the best times to get outside in New York. We look forward to welcoming millions more visitors to our properties for fall camping, leaf peeping festivals, historical reenactments and more."

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 178 state parks and 35 historic sites. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.

MONTICELLO, NY – Chairman of the Sullivan County Legislature Scott Samuelson and Chair of the Public Works Committee, Kathleen LaBuda announced that with the assisted efforts from Senator Gillibrand and Senator Schumer, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) $370,080 has been awarded to the Sullivan County International Airport to acquire snow removal equipment.

“The current equipment at the Sullivan County International Airport has reached its useful life, the funding being provided will keep the airport safe, efficient and serviceable during our winter months,” said LaBuda.

The FAA grant funding will be used to purchase a wheel loader, blower, snow plow, broom and bucket attachments.

"As Sullivan County International Airport is a vital asset for the local community and all of Sullivan County, we are very grateful to Senator Gillibrand and Senator Schumer for their efforts in obtaining this funding for equipment that will enhance safety and operations at our airport. This facility is an economic development component that we are lucky to have and all efforts to maintain and preserve the operations and infrastructure only help in our endeavors to bring business and tourists to Sullivan County” said Chairman Samuelson.

“This funding will ensure that Sullivan County Airport will remain safely open during those unexpected winter storms,” said Senator Schumer. “I applaud the DOT for helping Sullivan County Airport continue to serve residents, businesses and all visitors, no matter the season.”

“This is an important investment for Sullivan County Airport and the local economy,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Updating the airport’s snow removal equipment will help keep flights on time even under the harshest winter conditions, improve safety, and help keep travelers and businesses on the move.”

DEBRUCE, NY (August 27, 2012) – “Cars, Crafts & Country” are coming to the DeBruce Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 3, 2012. And for the third year in a row, the festivities will benefit the Livingston Manor Free Library.

The gathering begins at 10:00 a.m. with the parade starting at 11:00.

The parade will feature floats, The MountainTones Marching Band, Farmer Jim and His Clan, the antique “Parksville” fire truck, over 50 antique cars, and the Big Chair. And the party will include  entertainment by Lorena the Flamenco Dancer, Rainbow Fire Hoops, Kelly Curtis Juggling & Face Painting, and Balloon Art by the Balloon-a-tic.

Highlighting the entertainment this year is music with D.J. Frankie Carr and performances by Sullivan County artists Little Sparrow, and Somerville!

Plus hayrides, pony rides and a colossal book sale with books for children and adults. And visit with local author/illustrator Rob Rayevsky who will have autographed books and art prints for sale.

There will also be crafters including soap from Moxie Alley Bath & Body Botanicals, Wooden Toys and 18” Doll Clothes from Grandpa’s Wood’n Toys, and a kids’ craft table with art teacher Val Taggart, plus Naomi’s handmade dolls. Stop by and say hello to community-minded businesses and organizations such as Morgan Outdoors, The Plunk Shop, Manor Ink, the Pie Lady, and Livingston Manor Renaissance.

The festival will also include a special appearance by Evan Madison, one of the winners of the inaugural Sullivan County Soap Box Derby, and a karate demonstration by Axel Robinson, Andrew Helmes and Matt Heintz – three  students of Emeric Arus, 10th Dan Karate and former Olympic Fencer.

Plus, there will be a raffle drawing for a Maple Wood Carved Beaver masterfully crafted by Dick Kelly. And, for the first time ever, craft beer.

Lunch items for sale will be provided by volunteers from the Livingston Manor Free Library, and additional food items will be available from Flour Power Bakery, Early Bird Cookery Ice Cream and the Rolling River Café,

The fun starts at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 3 – The 2012 DeBruce Labor Day Parade. Come dressed “a little bit country,” march in the parade, then stay for entertainment and family fun at “Cars, Crafts & Country.” Admission is free!

It’s all happening at 21 Goff Road, DeBruce, NY, Exit 96 off Route 17, five miles east of Livingston Manor. For more information call the Livingston Manor Library at 845-439-5440.