The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 18, 2012) – The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for July 18 through 9:00 p.m. EDT.

Issued By: NWS Storm Prediction Center (Storm Prediction Center – Norman, Oklahoma)

Affected Jurisdictions:Sullivan County.

The alert extends into Orange and Ulster Counties as well. 

Description:Severe Thunderstorm Watch  Is In Effect Until 900 PM EDT For The Following Locations Ny . New York Counties Included Are Sullivan

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

View On Map:(Click Here to View on Map)

MONTICELLO, NY (July 18, 2012) – Nesin Cultural Arts (NCA) was presented with a donation as part of the proceeds taken in during a trip to the Yankee baseball game on June 10 sponsored by CD Trips.

Gary Siegel, president of CD Trips, LLC presented Ellen Nesin with a $500 donation for the local organization that supports artistic growth and provides educational lifelong learning opportunities to students and community members.

According to Siegel, CD Trips, LLC is “sponsoring a number of baseball trips this summer to benefit local organizations. This particular donation to NCA will be used to help Liberty residents who may need financial assistance in order to participate in events sponsored by the organization.”

The organization sponsors master classes, workshops, student recitals and performances and is running a two week Summer Chamber Music Institute which will be integrating music, dance, drama and visual arts.

“We are so pleased to accept this donation as we continue our mission to provide positive cultural experiences for our kids and community” said Nesin. “Our heartfelt thanks goes to CD Trips, LLC and all the participants who went on the baseball trip.”

Future trips include August 5 benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Sullivan County and September 20^thbenefiting the Rotary Foundation through the Liberty Rotary Club. Each trip includes round trip transportation on a Rolling V Coach bus and a grandstand ticket for the game.

For more information and reservations call 845 798-2188 or e-mail yankeebaseballtrips@gmail.com.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 12, 2012) – Sullivan County Seniors may be eligible for $20.00 worth of produce at a local farmer’s market.

The Sullivan County Office for the Aging is distributing Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program Coupons  which are good at area state-run Farmer’s Markets. In Sullivan County, those markets are: Bethel Woods Harvest Markets (September and October), Callicoon (year-round), and those in Jeffersonville and Liberty.

In order to take advantage of the Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program for seniors you must be at least 60 years young and a Sullivan County resident and carry an Office For the Aging senior ID card. In addition, you must meet and prove one of the following eligibility criteria.

· Currently receiving, or eligible for SSI, public assistance, food stamps, or Section 8 Housing subsidy; or

· 1 person household – $1,722.00/month

· 2 person household – $2,333.00/month

· 3 person household – $2,943.00/month

For more information, call the Sullivan County Office for the Aging at 845-807-0241.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

BETHEL, NY (July 16, 2012) – Several weeks after Gay Pride was celebrated around the world, Sullivan County, NY had its own celebration in the form of a Day to Be Gay.

Held on the grounds of The Dancing Cat Saloon and the Catskill Distillery in Bethel, the festival ran from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 14, and included plenty of camaraderie, entertainment, crafts, specialty food, and even a dog beauty contest.

Featured performers included Stacy & Friends, songs from cast members of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at Forestburgh Playhouse, The Raddyos, and Andrea Wittgens.

The Day to Be Gay was organized by GALA, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance of the Catskills, which covers Sullivan, Orange, Ulster Counties in New York, and Wayne and Pike Counties in Pennsylvania. James Lomax explained that GALA is a non-profit organization that raises money for other non-profit groups such as food banks and local arts programs, in addition to giving grants to schools for anti-bullying programs, diversity training and in support of gay-straight alliance initiatives in the schools. 

But even more than celebrating gay pride, Lomax said it’s “important to have fun. This is gay friendly, but also family friendly, we have everybody, even dogs, which is part of the tradition of this festival.”

The original Day to Be Gay festival happened in 1991 in Callicoon, NY, but has been on hiatus for the past few years.

With five new people on the board of the Day to Be Gay Foundation (an offshoot of GALA), the festival has been reignited. “The purpose of this festival is as a community gathering. Things like this are very important for improving the quality of our lives. This is what makes the community,” said Lomax.

Robert Byron-Lockwood, president of the Sullivan County Visitors Association said “We are blessed with an abundance of second homeowners and business men and women who are gay and lesbian. GALA has been a wonderful foundation. … Wonderful event, wonderful music, great friends, great people, great vendors, it’s just perfect. I love living here. We are the most wonderful welcoming community and county in the entire state.”

Here are some photos from the festival. Additional photos can be seen and purchased at this link: http://chronicle.zenfolio.com/p635866573.

MONTICELLO, NY (July 15, 2012) – The Trustees of the Village of Monticello, in partnership with the Monticello Day Committee, have designated Sunday, August 5 as “Monticello Day.”

This fun-filled day is running in conjunction with the 33^rd Annual Monticello Rotary Monster 5K and 10K Walk and Run, which begins promptly at 8:45 a.m.

Activities throughout the village will focus on family, children and community, and include both the Monticello Craft & Farm Fest, as well as an evening Concert on the Courthouse Lawn featuring local band SJP.

An informal Classic Car Cruise-In is also in the works. All Classic car owners and fans are more than welcomed to participate.

Monticello Day was born out of a cherished respect for Monticello’s history in combination with a strong commitment to the future of Monticello, the heart of Sullivan County.

The committee has announced that more than 30 activities will be taking place. The line-up is still in progress, but includes: Luigi’s Zeppole-Calzone Cart; Zumba by Lisa Tracy; Henry Good’s Highway Hilton New & Old 18 Wheeler Super-Cool Cabs; Chamber on the Run RV; Historian John Conway; Dunking Booth and more by Spencer Daniel’s Agency; Historical Bio Boards reflecting the first 200 years of the History of Monticello; Monticello MMA; IBAM Boxing Demos; Walk Live Classes; a few Harley Davidson Motorcycles; Bethel Motor Speedway – Steelhorse Race Team and much more.

All participants and interested parties are welcome to attend the organizational meetings, which are continuing on a regular basis on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Kristt Company, 369 Broadway in Monticello.

Contact Les Kristt at 845-794-6639 or Kathy Kreiter at 845-665-1333 for more information or to get involved. You can also email Les at lrkristt@yahoo.com.

Statewide residential burn ban now through October 10

NEW YORK STATE (July 13, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged all New Yorkers to take extra caution, as dry weather conditions have led to a heightened danger of wildfires across Upstate and Western New York. In addition, the state today will institute a statewide residential burn ban for 90 days through October 10.

"These conditions should not be taken lightly," Governor Cuomo said.  "The potential for disastrous wildfires is present in all areas of the state and we must do whatever we can to prevent fires from occurring. The state will continue to closely monitor the wildfire danger and we will deploy whatever resources are necessary to protect New Yorkers should a critical situation occur."

As a result of the mild winter with relatively little snowfall, as well as areas of the state which have received only 25% of the normal spring and early summer rainfall, wildfire danger across New York is heightened. Current weather forecasts predict above normal temperatures, elevating the risk for all of Upstate and Western New York. New York City and Long Island are at moderate risk levels.

Wildfires can start easily from many types of causes and can spread rapidly and increase quickly in intensity. The Governor urged New Yorkers to take extra caution and do the following:

• Refrain from starting any type of outdoor fire and in cases where a fire must be started, take extreme caution.

• Be watchful and keep a close eye when grilling outdoors.

• For those who smoke, make sure a lit cigarette is completely extinguished.

• When camping, use existing campfire rings when possible and keep fires small.

• Scrape away litter, duff, and any burnable material within a 10 foot diameter circle.  This will keep the campfire from spreading.

• Never leave a campfire unattended.

• Drown the fire with water. Make sure all embers, coals, and sticks are wet. Stir the remains, add more water, and stir again.

• Use a cooking stove instead of a campfire to prepare meals.

At the Governor’s direction, the following steps have been taken to properly prepare the state for the increased danger of fires.

The New York State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Albany is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to provide a heightened state of readiness. Representatives from the Office of Emergency Management (State OEM), Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) will staff the State EOC on a 24/7 basis as necessary.

DEC will issue an emergency regulation today implementing a statewide ban on residential brush burning through October 10. Violators of the open burning state regulation are subject to both criminal and civil enforcement actions. In addition, the Department of Environmental Conservation will suspend all burning permits previously issued. A moratorium on new permits is now in effect through October 10.

In April, Governor Cuomo declared a state of emergency for Suffolk County as brush fires threatened almost 1,200 acres of land. Staff from State Police, DEC, OFPC and State OEM were deployed to assist local governments in Suffolk County and other regions of the state, and State Police helicopters were used to perform water-dropping missions.

For more information on preventing wildfires, visit http://www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/event/brush-fire.cfm.

NARROWSBURG, NY (July 12, 2012) – Music, art, and the environment are the primary themes of Narrowsburg’s 22nd Annual Riverfest, held this year on Sunday, July 22, from 10:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m., at the edge of the Delaware River on Main Street in Narrowsburg, NY.

Presented by the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance and sponsored by Catskill Regional Medical Center, the 22nd Annual Riverfest embodies the spirit of the river valley and highlights the artists who live and work there.

Riverfest’s distinguishing characteristic is the access it affords to the artists whose products are being sold. Everything at Riverfest is artist-made and the person who is selling it to you is the artist him/herself: broom makers; potters; jewelers; textile, wood, and glass artists; writers, and painters. Get a book signed or watch a chainsaw artist create a new sculpture, a potter throwing clay, or a fly tier making the perfect fly for the perfect catch.

Artists are highlighted most dramatically at the Riverfest poster auction that takes place at the bandstand at 12:30 p.m. The work of over five dozen artists, whose posters are created especially for the festival in every conceivable medium from watercolor to fabric to wood, are auctioned off by Jerry Malek. These beautiful interpretations are on display in the gallery windows of the Delaware Arts Center and National Park Service and can also be seen online at www.ArtsAllianceSite.org.

Music opens the festivities just before 10:00 a.m., followed by the ever-popular Dog Parade. Pooches and pups strut their stuff at the bandstand, all hoping to win the “best of” awards, while emcee Kevin McDonough offers running commentary and the Dog Parade judges deliberate. Live music thereafter is provided by Stacy and Friends, the Rich Johansen Band, Mike Jung, and other guests.

It wouldn’t be Riverfest without the NACL stiltwalkers overseeing the festivities from their birds’ eye view. The tradition continues and these larger than life characters will inspire and delight once again.

Kids Korner is a place where children can create works of art or play games under the direction of Maureen Cookingham from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Art projects range from masks to mini posters and kids get to take home their own interpretation of Riverfest.

Environment and energy efficiency information booths will help you wade through the complexities of clean water, clean air, and energy conservation.

Follow the signs to Riverfest and enjoy a full day of celebrating the arts and environment.
Admission is free. For more information call 845-252-7576 or visit www.ArtsAllianceSite.org.

Photo captions: “Hawk and Upper Delaware For Riverfest” by Lee McElfresh, Archival Digital Print (top photo); “Within The River” by James Hemmel, Brass and Copper with Patina Finish (lower right)

NEW YORK STATE (July 12, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation to expand free fishing clinics in New York State, allowing more New Yorkers to experience fishing for the first time by increasing the number of free clinics that can be held throughout the state.

"Summer in New York is a fantastic time for families and individuals to take advantage of the numerous outdoor opportunities offered in each of our state’s beautiful regions," Governor Cuomo said. "This new law will allow more New Yorkers to take advantage of free fishing clinics, so our young people and other outdoor enthusiasts can get learn to fish without having to purchase a license. Fishing is both a fun, outdoor activity, and an economic generator for communities across the state. I thank the bill sponsors for their leadership in helping this bill become law."

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) conducts fishing clinics to help introduce individuals and families to recreational angling. Participants are not required to have a fishing license in order to attend these clinics. Under previous law, only four free sport fishing clinics could be held annually in each of DEC’s nine regions and DEC employees were required to provide at least part of the instruction at the events.

The law signed today by the Governor permits DEC to hold more clinics, and also allows other entities to conduct fishing clinics with DEC authorization. By allowing additional free sport fishing clinics, the law is designed to promote participation in recreational angling across New York State. Many local sporting federations and recreational groups run similar fishing clinics and enabling these groups to administer free clinics with DEC guidelines will benefit all New Yorkers who may be interested in fishing and enjoying the outdoors.

DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said, "DEC’s free fishing clinics introduce people of all ages to a great outdoor sport. By increasing the number of these popular events, even more New Yorkers and visitors will be able to enjoy their first-time fishing experience on the state’s abundant waterways. I thank Governor Cuomo for signing this new law."

New York’s sport fishing industry generates an estimated $1.8 billion in economic activity annually, supporting nearly 17,000 jobs.

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WASHINGTON, DC (July 10, 2012) – Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today released the following statement in response to the American Petroleum Institute’s and America’s Natural Gas Alliance’s attack against the ongoing EPA study of the impact that the controversial natural gas extraction process known as hydraulic fracturing has on drinking water supplies.  Hinchey is a leader in Congress of the effort to protect drinking water and the environment from the risks of hydraulic fracturing and was the author of the appropriations language that led to the current EPA study that the industry is now attacking. The congressman is a co-author of the FRAC Act, which would mandate public disclosure of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing fluid before and after drilling takes place and allow the EPA to regulate hydraulic fracking activities under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

"The shale gas industry has yet again launched a campaign to discredit independent and scientific research that questions the industry’s claim that shale gas drilling presents no risks to the water we drink or the air we breathe. Today’s industry target is the EPA, which has been working for over two years on a very public and transparent study on hydraulic fracturing and drinking water. Yesterday’s targets were Duke University scientists who found that water supplies in the Marcellus Shale are at an increased risk for contamination from shale gas drilling. Before that, it was scientists at Cornell University who raised questions about shale gas’s contribution to global warming.

"This EPA study is the first independent and comprehensive scientific review of the risks that hydraulic fracturing poses to drinking water.  Despite industry’s assurances that hydraulic fracturing is perfectly safe, there have been numerous examples of water contamination, air pollution and other significant problems associated with shale gas drilling.  We need independent scientists to look into these issues, not the shale gas industry’s lobbyists and their hired PR guns.

"Instead of accepting independent scientific criticism and taking steps to address legitimate concerns about the impact of shale gas drilling on our environment, the shale gas industry consistently works to undermine and discredit such independent work.  The industry has no one to blame but itself for its troubles."

(Photo – Carol Montana)

MONTICELLO, NY (July 8, 2012) – The Rotary Club of Monticello, New York has announced that the 33rd Annual Monster Classic 5K and 10K Road Races (also known as the Monster Run-a-thon) will be held on Sunday, August 5. This is the Monticello Rotary Club’s major fundraising event. 

Money raised is used to assist local groups that provide services to people in need in the community. 

This year the International Boxing Academy of Monticello (IBAM) and DARE are the designated beneficiaries.

The Monster Run 10K race has a long tradition in the Monticello area and has been an extremely popular summer event for many years. The racecourse has the reputation for being amongst the most challenging as it rambles through the Sullivan County countryside. 

The 5K course goes along part of the original Monster course to a turn-around. Both races start at Richardson Avenue at 8:45 a,m.

You can pre-register online for the race at www.active.com. Information and entry forms can be obtained online at www.sullivanstriders.org. There are a limited number of Monster t-shirts so pre-register early to reserve yours.

Runners/walkers can also pre-register on Saturday August 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the registration tent next to Pizza Hut at a cost of $22.00. 

Race day registration begins at 7:00 a.m. and the cost will be $25.00. There is a special discount for camps. Pre-register 10 or more camp runners/walkers and pay only $17.00 per runner.

Registration forms can also be picked up at Kristt Company, and at many local merchants in Monticello and Rock Hill, NY.

Those interested in volunteering or becoming an official sponsor can contact Race Director, Orshii Boldiis at  845-239-2107 or email: oboldiis@hotmail.com.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (July 7, 2012) – The Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum’s (CFFCM) Hall of Fame Committee has announced the 2012 Fly Fishing Hall of Fame Inductees:

The honor is being awarded posthumously to:

Joe Brooks – According to Lefty Kreh, “Joe Brooks was one of the best known American fly fishermen for many, many years…and my biggest influence”.

Joe Brooks fly fished every corner of the world. Several times he logged over 75,000 miles a year just fishing in Central and South America. Joe was the fishing editor of Outdoor Life magazine; featured on the ABC American Sportsman TV Series; wrote countless articles; and authored ten books including Trout Fishing, Saltwater Fly Fishing and the Complete Guide to Fishing Across North America that encouraged everyone to discover waters outside of their local radius.

Brooks believed in starting fly fishermen at a young age and, with the assistance of J.Hammond Brown and Frank Burt Smoot, developed “The Junior Outdoorsman”. This was published by the Maryland Fish and Game Association and targeted to young boys to teach them about fishing and conservation. His teaching generosity was unmatched. At that time Joe was the Chairman of Fresh Water Committee of the MD Fish and Game. This interest youth education blossomed two years later with the founding of the youth educational organization, the Brotherhood of the Junglecock. He, Smoot and Brown led the way and remained active through out their lives.

Joe is considered the first modern saltwater fly fishing pioneer. He developed the famous ‘Blonde’ design streamer flies, that worked both in fresh and saltwater, he was the first to fish for bonefish with a fly and chased fish in undiscovered waters both shallow and deep.

Joe Brooks died of a heart attack in his early 60’s while wading the Big Hole River in Montana. He was connected to every fly fisher in the 20th century and that connection will last forever.

Carrie Frost – Born 1868, Stevens Point, WI. Carrie shared her father’s favorite pastime of fly fishing. At an early age she was recognized as an accomplished fly caster and fly fisher. After graduating from high school and following a brief two-year stint as a school teacher in Minnesota, Carrie returned home to Stevens Point, WI to follow this pastime.

In 1896 Carrie began tying flies at home for her father and his companions. She was recognized as an outstanding tyer. The demand for her flies was overwhelming and soon she had to enlist the help of a family maid and neighborhood girls. This was the start of the C. J. Frost Fishing Tackle Manufacturers (Carrie used her initials so customers would not know it was a woman owned business). Within a year, 97 people were working for her. By 1917 her business grew to 150 employees making Stevens Point the “Fly Tackle Capital of the World.”

Dr. George Parker Holden – As an angling student, George Parker Holden followed the writings of Thaddeus Norris on American angling. In 1919 Holden penned his first book, Streamcraft. At the time America was experiencing a truly unique fly fishing evolution – weaning itself from the British tradition. This new American manner of fly fishing was distinct in both style and technique. It relied on an approach of recognizing specific natural insects and developing their imitations. The book American Trout Insects, written and illustrated by Louis Rhead influenced Holden to do further investigations and confirm his findings by testing his selection of patterns on Catskill streams. Streamcraft was truly ‘An Angling Manual’ on how to’s for the angler. His second book followed only a year later and was titled The Idyl of the Split Bamboo Rod. It was also a ‘how to’ book focusing on the construction of bamboo fly rods. ‘Idyl’ remains a classic for those interested in cane rodmaking. Two of Holden’s most recognized followers were Everett Garrison and Ray Gould. His last book, Angling: Recollection and Practice was published in 1931.

Paul Young – In 1926 Paul Young and his wife Martha Marie opened their first tackle shop in Detroit, Michigan. It was in this shop Paul designed and developed a unique line of shorter and lighter three piece bamboo fly rods. At first these rods were scoffed at by customers and the industry. They were considered novelties or toys not capable of catching large fish. A short time later, A.J. McClane, founding editor of Field and Stream and Esquire Magazine founder Arnold Gingrich, discovered they were indeed capable of catching large Atlantic Salmon and of course they wrote about them. Young’s designs would change the shape of bamboo rods to come, being lighter, thinner and available in three pieces for ease of travel. Young’s designs flourished and South Bend, EW Edwards and Heddon Company would soon be selling Paul’s rods.

Young was more than a rodmaker. His first book Making and Using the Dry Fly (1933) was revised in 1935 as Making and Using the Fly and Leader. It provided the angler with instructions on many topics such as how to tie a fly and how to properly fish a stream. In addition to fly tying and reading the water, Young’s appraisal of the use of leaders and their construction were monumental in the development of modern day fishing.

Throughout his early books he made it clear that fly fishing should not be all consuming, but be about More Fishing, Less Fussing and used this as the title of his 1940 book. As a fly tying and fly tackle retailer, Paul developed his own line of materials, tapered formula leaders and of course bamboo fly rods that today are highly treasured.

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Living honorees are:

Stu Apte – From the day in 1950 when he landed a 100-pound plus sailfish on 16-pound tackle, Stu Apte has been recognized as one of the all-time great anglers. A student of Joe Brooks and pioneer in saltwater fly fishing, at one time Stu held 44 saltwater records and some still stand. Now residing in Montana, he has fished every corner of the world from the Florida Keys to Iceland and everywhere in between. If there is water, Stu will fish it.

Stu is known for more than record fish. He developed many new fly patterns and was honored by having his Tarpon Fly on a U.S. postage stamp. He improved knots and leaders, wrote several books, is a regular contributor to various magazines and is an angling editor. Over his 50 year career as a fly fisherman he has made countless contributions to our sport.

Thomas McGuane – Born in Michigan, Tom discovered the beauty of fly fishing and appreciation of a cane rod at the grip of his father’s whippy Leonard and by spending Saturdays in Paul Young’s rod shop.

While we recognized him for his books, 92 in the Shade and The Sporting Club, McGuane is also an accomplished scriptwriter for films such as Tom Horn and Missouri Breaks.

Tom shares his emotions for his 50 years of fly fishing and explains “what fishing ought to be about”. Tom’s contributions to the literary world of fly fishing are immense and in the genre of Schweibert, Lamb and Lyons; his stories are rich. His two books The Longest Silence, a life in fishing and Upstream fly fishing the American West, bring our shared passions to life. They will be here for future generations to take pleasure in.

Ed Shenk – A fisherman for over 80 years, a tyer for more than 65, Ed Shenk has also been a recognized instructor for more than half a century. He has fished with high profile individuals such as President Jimmy Carter, Joe Brooks, TV celebrities, sports stars and everyday fishermen just like us. He is respected by all.

Ed is a master on his homewater the LeTort and there he developed his most remarkable flies: the LeTort Cricket; Flat Wing LeTort Hopper; Shenk Cress Bug; and, the Shenk Sculpin. He is known as a terrestrial expert.

He has written over 500 articles for just about every fishing magazine in the USA, authored Fly Rod Trouting in 1989, and released a video in 2000. A co-founder of the Cumberland Valley TU, he is a Limestone Legend and has received many awards including the Charles Fox “Rising Trout,” Limestoner, George Harvey, and the Order of the Hat.

Larry Solomon – Larry studied the aquatic life of caddis flies from an aquarium in his apartment. With this first-hand knowledge, he joined Eric Leiser and co authored The Caddis and the Angler in 1977. This book was the frontrunner to many of the books on Caddis flies that followed and a reference to this day. Eric and Larry brought more than caddis flies to the surface as they developed new patterns and fishing techniques.

Following this highly successful book, Larry published The Complete Book of Modern Fly Fishing in 1979. It provided anglers with the latest information on tackle, fly casting, fly tying and fly fishing for both fresh and saltwater. It was also in this book that he brought an awareness of the importance of the well-being of our rivers and streams. He encouraged fly fishermen to help by joining conservation minded groups such as Theodore Gordon Flyfishers, Trout Unlimited and the Federation of Fly Fishers.

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A ceremony and reception will be held in the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 6, 2012. Later that evening a dinner will be held at Wolf Catering at Tennanah Lake , Roscoe , NY .

For more details contact the CFFCM at 845-439-4810

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WURTSBORO, NY (July 6, 2012) – The Wurtsboro Board of Trade invites you to the return of the Founder’s Day Street Fair in the beautiful Village of Wurtsboro on Saturday, July 7, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., rain or shine.

Veteran’s Park will be highlighted with live entertainment featuring, Obsidian,  Variety, Inc., Keith Newman, Carl Richards Band, Donna Singer & Doug Richards Trio, and Third Degree.

Exciting activities include local vendors selling Arts and Crafts, rides and events for the children on Sullivan Street featuring the fine shops that line the road.

There will be a car show and a concert with Rivers Edge band at Jerry’s Collision. Foods of various kinds will be offered as well as soft drinks.

Bill the Wizard will be doing readings and other inspiring activities can be found at The Crystal Connection located on Sullivan Street.

Rifka will be doing readings her own special way in her shop. There will lots more so do come to enjoy a Family Fun Day in Wurtsboro. For more information go to www.wurtsboro.org for updates.

(Carol Montana, photos)

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 5, 2012) – The Professional Women of Sullivan County (formerly known as the Catskill Mountain Business and Professional Women) have announced the installation of  their new  officers for the upcoming year. 

Pat Hendrickson, PWSC member and outgoing President of NYS Women, Inc., installed the new officers who are (l-r): Donna Mulvey, Treasurer; Barbara Sush, Vice President; Helen Rados, President; Marilyn Stein, Corresponding Secretary; and Christine Wiley, Recording Secretary. 

PWSC is an organization dedicated to empowering women through scholarships and mentoring programs, and advancing women and women’s issues through information and advocacy. 

For more information about PWSC e-mail professionalwomenofsc@gmail.com.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (July 4, 2012) – The Catskill Chronicle wishes all its readers, friends and family a very Happy Independence Day!

Have fun and stay safe!

(Photos by Carol Montana)

WASHINGTON, DC (July 3, 2012) – Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) yesterday called on the US Department of Justice to launch an anti-trust investigation of two major natural gas companies after a recent news report detailed a series of meetings and secret agreements between the two companies that led to a dramatically lower market value for land those companies leased for drilling in Michigan.

Reuters reported last week that Chesapeake Energy Corp. and Encana Corp. worked together to avoid competing for the same parcels of land so that each company would have no competition when making lease proposals to landowners and therefore be able to secure a cheap price. In a letter sent to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Hinchey also urged him to examine whether such anti-competitive practices took place elsewhere in the US

"I urge you to review this [Reuters] report, open an investigation into whether any federal antitrust laws were violated in this case, and assess whether violations may have been committed in other oil and gas lease bidding across the country," Hinchey wrote in his letter to Holder. "As you know, the recent boom in domestic oil and natural gas production has caused the industry to lease millions of acres for development on both private and public property. Chesapeake Energy Corp. and Encana Corp. represent two of the largest corporations in the oil and gas industry. Reuters reported Chesapeake has leased more than 15 million acres in the U.S. in the past 10 years while Encana has leased 2.5 million acres. These rivals often bid against each other for prime oil and gas rights in shale formations; however, prices and competition for leases in Michigan drastically fell after communications between these two companies began in 2010, when top executives discussed how to avoid bidding against each other in a public land auction and strategies for dealing with at least nine large private landowners."

To read the full story and the text of Hinchey’s letter, click here: Hinchey Calls for Anti-Trust Investigation

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MONTICELLO, NY (July 2, 2012) – Sullivan County Legislator Cora Edwards, Chair of the Public Safety and Law Enforcement Committee, will hold a discussion of a proposed “Social Host” local law at the next meeting of the committee.

Current State law prohibits the providing of alcohol to underage individuals. A “Social Host” law is meant to be broader and addresses the role of parents and guardians in underage drinking by allowing law enforcement officials to act in situations where adults permit underage consumption of alcohol at their property, but may not have provided the alcohol.

District Attorney Jim Farrell has requested that the Public Safety and Law Enforcement Committee discuss the results of teen alcohol and drugs survey that was completed by the Recovery Center.  Farrell stated that there are some disturbing findings which need to be addressed.

The District Attorney and representatives from the Recovery Center will be invited to make a presentation to the Legislature on their survey and findings.

All meetings of the Public Safety and Law Enforcement Committee are open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to attend and engage in a meaningful discussion about this proposed local law.

The meeting will occur on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. in the Legislative Committee Room on the second floor of the Sullivan County Government Center in Monticello, NY.

HASBROUCK, NY (July 1, 2012) – It’s junk … trash … leftovers! Or is it? You be the judge!

The Old Stone House of Hasbrouck is presenting its first-ever “World’s Worst Art” show, with a grand opening reception set for Saturday, July 14 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

The exhibit is art on the chopping block … literally! One oddball installation, in a graphic confrontation, takes the axe to pieces of genuine art. Another questions whether some creative works have really earned their premier spots … in the garbage can.

The show presents two rooms filled with truly terrible, amazingly awful, artworks.

There are family portraits hung upside-down. Landscapes you’ll want to quickly escape. Still-lifes to make you hide your face and cry.

Some modern masterpieces may seem suddenly ugly, and classic styles will turn oddly unpleasant. It’s an art lover’s great discovery, or worst nightmare.

And it’s all for sale. You’ll find “art” for a buck … or ten. Select from an astonishing array of bad, and worse, all mixed together, and all absurdly displayed. The only sure thing about quality will be the snacks and wine at the opening reception. The rest is a matter of eternal public debate.

As an added “attraction,” students in The Old Stone House “Messy Smocks” art program will spend an entire class session deliberately creating bad art for the show. “It’s Oscar the Grouch meets Van Gogh,” says teacher Andrea Eddings.

The “World’s Worst Art” show will also be open Sunday afternoon, July 15, right next door to the truly revolutionary Bastille-Day Weekend Yard Sale, and by appointment on subsequent weekends.

It’s all part of the 2012 fundraising program at The Old Stone House of Hasbrouck, 282 Hasbrouck Road, Hasbrouck, NY 12788. This is a community and arts center conveniently located near Woodbourne, Ellenville, Grahamsville, Monticello and Liberty.

In addition to original art exhibitions, the House hosts classes for adults and children alike, in various arts and crafts disciplines including painting, needlework and pottery. There’s more information at www.TheOldStoneHouseOfHasbrouck.org.

MONTICELLO, NY (June 29, 2012) – On May 19 and 20, Guardian Angel Motorsports (GAM) and Monticello Motor Club (MMC) joined forces recently to host the Inaugural GAM/MMC Charity Gala and Performance Driving Experience, raising over $100,000 to support GAM’s Kids In Need, the Saving Teens Collaborative and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

Seventeen drivers opened their hearts and their wallets, participating in two days of spirited driving on MMC’s world-class 4-mile circuit. The event also included a 5-star dinner and charity auction. In return for hosting the event, MMC had the honor of selecting a local not-for-profit organization to receive a portion of the funds raised to help disadvantaged children in the community.

Monticello Motor Club directed the $18,500 donation to help provide at-risk Sullivan County youth access to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts’ free school programs, including transportation and lunch.

“We were thrilled to be a part of this incredible event and look forward to many more in the future,” said Ari Straus, President of MMC. “Through the generosity of our members and the dedication of GAM, disadvantaged local kids right here in Sullivan County will benefit from the arts and history programs available Bethel Woods.”

MMC members Bruce and Linda Ledoux co-founded Guardian Angel Motorsports after discovering their child had a unique genetic disorder just over three years ago. GAM, a 501c3, has evolved into a team of like-minded people who share a passion for motorsports and devotion to help kids in need, raising  hundreds of thousands of dollars for individual families, as well as children’s charities including Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, Franciscan Hospital Boston,  Cops for Kids, Saving Teens, Starlight Foundation, Angel Flight, and many others.

Mike Kerouac, President of Guardian Angel Motorsports and also an MMC member stated, "We are honored and privileged to have such a strong partner in Monticello Motor Club. The generosity and support they provided as co-host of this event was simply tremendous. We all share a passion for motorsports, but most of all we recognize the opportunity to give back to our communities by helping the many challenged kids that struggle coping with the everyday world."

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a not-for-profit performing arts center and museum at the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival in Bethel, New York. As a public charity, donations and grants enable Bethel Woods to offer scores of affordable educational and community programs to 40,000 people annually, including musical performances, lectures and films, interactive arts activities for children and their families and curriculum-based educational programs. This can only be accomplished with support from charitable organizations, community members and businesses such as MMC and GAM.

“We are grateful to Guardian Angel Motorsports and to Monticello Motor Club for this marvelous contribution and for recognizing Bethel Woods’ commitment to engaging people in the arts and civic life,” said Bethel Woods CEO Darlene Fedun. “This gift will assist us in introducing even more of our county’s young people to cultural opportunities designed to improve their abilities to succeed academically, socially and economically – all contributing to the vibrancy of our community.”

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 28, 2012) – Kenneth Fisk of Livingston Manor and Gabriela Quintanilla of Liberty are the recipients of the two 2012 Community Unity Scholarships, which are funded by Associated Mutual Insurance Cooperative and Cooperative Federal Credit Union of Woodridge.

To qualify for this scholarship, students must be full-time, have good grades, be involved in community service, provide recommendations and maintain a good behavioral record. In addition, they maintain a 2.5 grade point average during their first year in college, as the award is provided in two increments.

Both students are well rounded individuals, performed well academically, received stellar recommendations and most importantly are very involved in community service.

Mr. Fisk, a graduate of Livingston Manor High School, is a volunteer fireman, participates in litter pluck, volunteered for town clean-up after the recent floods, was captain of the LMHS basketball team and coaches youth basketball and soccer. Kenneth will attend Sullivan County Community College in the fall.

Ms. Quintanilla, a graduate of Liberty High School, was on the LHS softball and soccer teams, founded the Diversity Club, was on the Student Council, is involved with local youth at school and at her church and is an advocate for migrant farm workers and undocumented students, working to make a change in their challenges. Gabriela will attend Dutchess County Community College in the fall.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 27, 2012) – The Professional Women of Sullivan County (PWSC – formally Catskill Mountain Business and Professional Women) held their annual Scholarship Dinner on June 20 at Mr. Willy’s Restaurant in Monticello, NY. 

This year 10 scholarships were presented, five to mature women returning to school, and five to young women graduating from local high schools. 

All recipients will be attending college in the fall of 2012. 

The recipients, pictured are (l-r): Front row:  Rachelle Walker, Rebecca Corcillo, Ann Finneran, Audra Everett, and Bonnie Carnell.  Back row: Kaitlyn Fisher, Shanna Caffery, and Paige E. Maxwell. Not pictured are April White and Nadine Ramdhany.

Ann Finneran, Audra Everett, April White, Kaitlyn Fisher (Monticello HS) and Rebecca Corcillo (Sullivan West HS) received the Professional Women of Sullivan County Award. Bonnie Carnell received the Jean Rosenheck Memorial Award; Paige E. Maxwell, the Reverend Martha Finn Award; and Shanna Caffery, the Selma Green Memorial Award.   Nadine Ramdhany (Sullivan West HS) received the Cooper-Neiman Award, which is presented to a student entering the field of accounting.

Rachelle Walker (Monticello HS) received the Margaret Hazen Memorial Award. This is the inaugural award of this scholarship. Margaret was a board member of United Way of Sullivan County. PWSC worked together with United Way to raise funds and pick the award winner. The organization is very excited about this cooperative effort and is looking forward to developing more in the future.

For more information about the Professional Women of Sullivan County send an email to professionalwomenofsc@gmail.com.

HIGHLAND LAKE, NY (June 25, 2012) – NACL Theatre will host DIGit,  a 3-day “salon exhibition” on July 6, 7, 8  at NACL Theatre, 110 Highland Lake Road, Highland Lake, NY.

DIGit is a multi-media art exhibit curated by Pat Carullo celebrating the convergence of performance with poetry, drawing, video, painting, fiber and ceramic art, sculpture, photography and sound.

Hours are: Friday July 6 from 7:00 –9:00 p.m. (reception); Saturday July 7 from Noon to 9 p.m.; Sunday July 8, Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Admission is free and the works are for sale. Reservations are not required.

Curator, Pat Carullo explains his vision, ”Our culture has been totally transformed by the digital revolution, yet the Visual Arts still cling to the physical world and remains frozen within a sorta materialism. You will see how this is changing…and you’ll dig it!”

DIGit will celebrate nature and technology, featuring work that focuses on the  sublime beauty of the Upper Delaware River, as well as the contributions of Apple Computer. Many of the featured works use dozens of iPads and iPods, vintage computers, big and small LED HD screens, blank canvasses, discs, and mini-projectors embedded within the art work.

The exhibition will present the diverse and ecclectic work of collaborating artists living in the Catskill Mountains and Upper Delaware River Valley watershed regions including: Brett Keyser & the NACL Company, Kazzrie Jaxen & the Drummers, Anthony Biancoviso, Ph.D, Daria Dorosh, Ph.D, Sally Rowe, Marcia Nehemiah & Pat Carullo, Eleni Smolen, Sandy Long, Lloyd Parker, Armand Agresti, Larry Braverman, David Soete, John Tomlinson, and Joyce Ellen Weinstein.

For more information on DIGit go to: http://www.SortaKindaLikeArt.org/

For more information about NACL go to: http://www.nacl.org

(Photo: Art work by Pat Carullo)

MONTICELLO, NY (June 25, 2012) – At the Catskill Mountain Chapter of Hadassah’s Installation/Pot Luck dinner, new officers were installed by Amy Solomon, Incoming Organizational Vice President. 

The new officers pictured are: (l-r back row) Linda Bernstein, Ida Richter, Marilyn Stein, and Lauren Miller; (middle row) Florence Messenger, Brenda Stiefel Sherman, Diane Moss, Renee Kates, Debbie Glatt, and Linda Eckers; (front row) Fanny Valenstein, Lynne Freedman, and Marilyn Sperber. 

Caren Caplan, President of the Lower NY State Region of Hadassah spoke to the group about the new Sarah Wetsman Davidson Tower at the Hadassah Medical Center in Israel. 

She discussed the high quality of medical treatment given to patients there from all over the world, as well as the ongoing research and technological advances in medicine taking place there. 

At the next meeting, on Wednesday, July 11 at 7:00 p.m., the group will be holding a Chinese Auction at Temple Sholom in Monticello, NY. 

For more information, please contact Lauren Miller at lauren.miller13@gmail.com or 845-794-3962, or Lynne Freedman at mrfreed@aol.com or 845-439-5708.

UPPER DELAWARE VALLEY, NY/PA (June 24, 2012) – The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has announced a new 2012 edition of the award-winning “Shop Local Save Land Guide to Farms and Farm Markets.” The guide is an easy-to-read, easy-to-use, easy-to-carry one-stop resource for residents and visitors who desire fresh, healthy, local foods.

At left, Tannis and Simon Swartz of Willow Wisp Farm, an organic farm located in Damascus, PA. Tannis is also one of the principals with NACL Theatre in Highland Lake.

Complimentary copies of “Shop Local Save Land” are available at fine shops, restaurants, farms and farm markets, lodging facilities, Visitors Bureaus and Chambers of Commerce, or may be found at both the PA and NY offices of the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, 508 River Street in Hawley, PA and 120 Segar Road in Kauneonga Lake, NY.

The brochure features 22 pages of essential information about farms, farmers’ markets and stands, and community gardens that produce and sell local agricultural products. The guide includes a keyed map for easy navigation and for creating road plans to visit several farms in a day trip.

At right, Apple Ridge Farm, located in Saylorsburg, PA, selling their products at a local farmers’ market.

The companion website, www.ShopLocalSaveLand.com, provides searchable listings as well as interesting articles, upcoming events in the area, and a tool to design your own driving tour of farm and forest providers in the area.

Shopping locally sustains the Upper Delaware River region’s local agricultural economy. As any local farmer will attest, making a living from farming and from marketing local farm products is hugely challenging. Under pressing economic concerns, acres of productive farmland every year are lost to housing and industrial development.

For more information about the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, visit www.DelawareHighlands.org, email info@delawarehighlands.org or call 570-226-3164 or 845-583-1010. For more information about the 2012 farm or forestry guides visit http://www.ShopLocalSaveLand.com.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 23, 2012) – The Catskill Chronicle is on a brief hiatus due to a family high-school graduation. Enjoy your weekend.

Kiwanis Club of Woodridge officers and scholarship winners (l to r (front): Sue Kasofsky (President), Aileen Halchak (Scholarship Committee Chair), Elmer Serrano, Isabel Mijia, (rear) Irvin Lemus, Sorouk AboHussien, Charles Marsden.

WOODRIDGE, NY (June 22, 2012) – The Kiwanis Club of Woodridge held their Annual Scholarship Dinner last week at the Woodridge Family Restaurant. 

The award recipients were Shorouk AboHussien daughter of Tony and Mai AboHussien, Irvin Lemus son of Mauricio and Lillian Lemus, Charles Marsden son of Paul and Jill Marsden, Isabel Mijia daughter of Carlos and Virginia Mejia and Elmer Serrano son of Lidia Espinoza.

Aileen Halchak, Scholarship Committee Chairperson spoke about the program, telling the audience that, in 2000 the Club awarded two scholarships for $250.00 each. Since then, with the hard work of the members and the support of the community, the Club is now able to award five scholarships for $1000.00 each. 

Since 2000 they have awarded 62 scholarships, assisting students in the entire Fallsburg School District with their higher education. The awards are based on academics, need and service to the school and community. All recipients this year are seniors graduating from Fallsburg High School.  President Sue Kasofsky presented the awards.

Shorouk AboHussien will be attending NYU and majoring in Biology. She plans to be a pediatrician.  She has participated in sports, food drives and blood drives and tutoring.

Irvin Lemus will be attending Orange County Community College and will major in Liberal Arts. Irvin has participated in a church related Bible study class for children, toy drive wrapping Christmas presents and raised funds for Breast Cancer Awareness month with Interact.

Charles Marsden will attend SUNY Oswego and will major in Business Management. He has volunteered at the Halloween Haunted House at Jellystone Park, participated in the Youth Walk for the Homeless, was a gardening assistant with Woodridge Renaissance, raised money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand and Heart-a -Thon, and is the current Key Club President.

Isabel Mejia plans to attend Mercy College and major in Teaching. She has tutored Hispanic students learning English, helped the Home Economics teacher by translating kitchen safety to Hispanic students and participated in blood drives.

Elmer Serrano will attend Orange County Community College and major in Telecommunications.  Elmer is very active in his church teaching children community service and is a musician.

The group received a surprise when Kiwanian Lt. Governor Sue Sheehan, who was also in attendance, presented Charles Marsden with the New York District Kiwanis Scholarship, a very special honor.  Charles’ grandfather, Warren Marsden was a member of the Owego Kiwanis Club in the Susquehanna Division, and was also a Lt. Governor in 1975.

MONTICELLO, NY (June 21, 2012) – The SUNY ATTAIN Lab (Advanced Technology Training and Information Networking) has as its goal to provide educational and occupational skills that can lead to meaningful employment for underemployed and underserved populations throughout our communities. ATTAIN increases community access to education, training, and technology for individuals and employers.

The SUNY ATTAIN Lab at Sullivan County BOCES in Monticello will host a Microsoft Summer Institute training program.

The lab will be providing free training in the following Microsoft Productivity Programs: Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, and Access. In addition to free training, we will provide a free voucher valued at $85 to take the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification exam.

The lab will also be training individuals to become a Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) in the following areas: Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, Windows Server, Windows Operating System, Web Development, and Database Administration.

Classes begin on Monday, July 2, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the SUNY ATTAIN Lab at Sullivan County BOCES, St. John Education Center, 22 St. John Street, 1st Floor, Monticello, NY.

The classes are open to all residents of New York State.

The SUNY Research Foundation partners with the Sullivan County BOCES Adult Educational Program to offer free access to new technologies, education, and technology training through the ATTAIN Lab. We provide ongoing access to education, workforce development training, computer training, and internet access providing services and activities leading to Job Preparation and Computer Skill Certifications facilitating not only job searching, placement, retention and promotion, but also academic achievement and economic stability.

The summer institute is a great opportunity for individuals to receive an industry recognized certification to improve their career prospects in this competitive job market and/or prepare them for academic success and advance into secondary education.

Visit www.attain.suny.edu and/or www.scb.sunyeoc.org for additional resources, or call 845-295-4908.

NARROWSBURG, NY (June 19, 2012) – Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History has announced an expansion of its regular weekend schedule to allow participation in Narrowsburg’s annual Fourth of July celebration.

At noon on Wednesday, July 4, General George Washington, as portrayed by BAR reenactor Paul Brennan, will offer a dramatic reading of the "Declaration of Independence" to the costumed interpreters of the the Cushetunk settlers, the first Europeans in Western Sullivan County. 

At 12:30 p.m., Sullivan County Historian John Conway will speak on "The Declaration of Independence and the Upper Delaware River Valley." 

"When the Declaration of Independence was read to the public in the summer of 1776, it was not universally cheered," says Conway. "Some historians estimate that as many as one-third of the colonial settlers maintained their loyalty to Britain, and that was certainly the case here, where Cushetunk resident Robert Land would become one of the most noted Tories of the Revolution."

Conway will examine the impact of the Declaration of Independence on the Cushetunk settlement and how it affected the region for years to come.

At 2:00 p.m. some of the Fort’s interpreters will leave their living history demonstrations of candle making, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, musketry and gardening to line up for the community’s traditional parade that steps off at 3:00 p.m.

Holiday hours at Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the last tour leaving at 4:00 p.m.

As always, colonial reenactors (in costume) are heartily invited, and admitted free.

For further information, call 845-252- 6660.

BETHEL, NY (June 19, 2012) – After a hiatus of three years, a re-imagined Day to Be Gay Festival returns to the Catskills on Saturday, July 14. 

The Festival will take place both inside and outside at the Catskill Distillery next to the Dancing Cat Saloon at 2037 State Route 17B in Bethel, NY.

Scheduled to run from 11:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. (rain or shine), the Festival features live entertainment, a “Dog of the Day” contest, as well as delicious foods and refreshing drinks for sale through the Dancing Cat Saloon. In addition, several dozen of the area’s best crafts people and specialty food merchants will also have booths with an array of products for sale.

The live bands and entertainment featured at the Festival include: Stacy & Friends from 12 Noon-1:00 p.m., Music by cast members of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show from 1:00 – 1:15 p.m. (At Forestburgh Playhouse July 10-22), The Raddyos from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. and Andrea Wittgens from 2:30 – 3:15 p.m. All times are approximate.

The “Dog of the Day” contest will run from 12:00 until 3:00pm and the winner will be announced at approximately 3:30 p.m. The first place winner will receive a day of grooming courtesy of Dog Mountain Lodge. Second place winner receives a basket of doggie treats and gifts. Donations for the Dog of the Day contest will benefit the ASPCA.

Admission is $10. A parent or guardian must accompany children under 12 and the child’s admission is free.

A BBQ, which includes a selection of two entrees: Bourbon Pork, Ribs, Peace Vodka Chicken or burgers with corn on the cob and three salads and soft drinks is available for $25 plus the cost of admission. A cash bar, beer tent – serving mixed drinks as well – will also be open.

No picnic baskets or liquor can be brought into the Festival, and purchases of liquor and beer inside the Festival will require a photo ID.

The Day to be Gay Festival is an initiative of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance of the Catskills – GALA Catskills – which is the operating group of the Day to Be Gay Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) not for profit organization, and the original founders of the Day to Be Gay Festival.

Exhibitor booth spaces are limited and some booth spaces may still be available. For booth space information only contact: Jim Lomax: galacatskills@gmail.com.

For more information about the Day to Be Gay Festival visit: www.galacatskills.org or call 845-252-6868.

Legislation Establishes Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs to Prevent, Investigate and Prosecute Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable New Yorkers

NEW YORK STATE (June 18, 2012) – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver have announced an agreement on legislation to establish the strongest standards and practices in the nation for protecting people with special needs and disabilities.

The legislation creates a new Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, an initiative that will transform how the state protects over one million New Yorkers in State operated, certified or licensed facilities and programs.

The Justice Center will have a Special Prosecutor and Inspector General for the Protection of People with Special Needs who will investigate reports of abuse and neglect and prosecute allegations that rise to the level of criminal offenses. It will also include a 24/7 hotline run by trained professionals, a comprehensive statewide database that will track all reports of abuse and neglect and a statewide register of workers who have committed serious acts of abuse who will be prohibited from ever working with people with disabilities or special needs. The information obtained by the Justice Center will also provide the means to analyze abuse pattern and trends in order to prevent future abuse and provide a basis for the training and supports that program managers and direct care workers need to meet their critical responsibilities.

Last year, there were more than 10,000 allegations of abuse and neglect against New Yorkers with special needs and disabilities in state operated, certified or licensed facilities and programs. However, the State has never had a consistent and comprehensive standard for tracking and investigating complaints or punishing guilty workers.

The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs will have primary responsibility for tracking, investigating and pursuing serious abuse and neglect complaints for facilities and provider agencies that are operated, certified, or licensed by the following six agencies: The Department of Health (DOH), the Office of Mental Health (OMH), the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), and the State Education Department (SED).

Other components and responsibilities of the Justice Center include the following:

· An Executive Director, Special Prosecutor and Inspector General, and a substantial staff of trained investigators, lawyers and administrators. The Justice Center’s law enforcement branch will have concurrent authority with district attorneys to prosecute abuse and neglect crimes committed against such persons.

· Creation of a statewide 24/7 hotline staffed by trained professionals to ensure that allegations of abuse are promptly reported to law enforcement and fully and effectively investigated.

· Development of a register of workers who have committed serious or repeated acts of abuse who will be prohibited from ever being hired again in any position where they would work with people with disabilities or special needs.

· Representing the state at all public employee disciplinary cases or those where the state is seeking termination of employment as the penalty.

· Development of common standards for investigations and requirements to be used to train investigators.

· Development of a code of conduct containing the basic ethical standards to which all individuals working with people with special needs and disabilities would be required to subscribe and would be held accountable.

· Consolidation of background check procedures, including reviewing and evaluating the criminal history for any person applying to be an employee, volunteer or consultant at any facility or provider agency operated, licensed or certified by OMH, OPWDD, and OCFS in a position where a background check is required.

· Providing an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature concerning its work during the preceding year which will include data on central register reports, results of investigations, types of corrective actions taken, results of its review of patterns and trends relating to abuse and reporting of abuse, suggested corrective actions and training efforts.

The bill will also provide for re-designation of an independent agency to conduct protection and advocacy and client assistance functions, in conformance with federal provisions governing oversight of the state’s system of care for persons with disabilities.

An Advisory Council of at least 15 members will be created to provide guidance to the Justice Center in the development of policies, programs and regulations. Members will include persons with experience in the care and treatment of, or advocacy on behalf of, individuals with disabilities, as well as individuals or family members of individuals who have participated in programs or received services from provider agencies under the jurisdiction of the Justice Center.

The new law will also replace confusing and inconsistent definitions of abuse and neglect in various laws and regulations with a single consistent standard applicable to human services systems.

The new law also will enhance criminal penalties for endangering the welfare of people with disabilities and special needs and strengthen a prosecutor’s ability to prove that any of these individuals in a facility operated, licensed or certified by the State were the victims of sexual abuse.

New Yorkers can learn more about the Justice Center at www.Justice4SpecialNeeds.com
The Justice Center legislation was developed, in part, from recommendations outlined in The Measure of a Society: Protection of Vulnerable Persons in Residential Facilities Against Abuse and Neglect, a special report prepared by Mr. Clarence Sundram, the Governor’s Special Advisor on Vulnerable Persons. A copy of this report is available  at: http://www.governor.ny.gov/assets/documents/justice4specialneeds.pdf

Photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (June 17, 2012) – Just one week ago, on June 10, the Monticello High School Gymnasium was a flurry of activity as hundreds of students from the Monticello Gymnastics Club took part in the 28th Annual Exhibition.

Headed up by world-famous Pedro Tweed, the club encompasses a multitude of ages from Tiny Tots on up to high school and beyond.

In all, there were 20 routines, including a performance by the Creative Expressions Dance Studio of Roscoe, NY. The show was emceed by Betsy Conaty and Ebony Anne Isaac sang The Star Spangled Banner.

Here are some photos from the Exhibition, followed by a link to the full album of 339 photos on The Catskill Chronicle’s photo site.

View Full Album

To see more photos from 28th Annual Monticello Gymnastics Club Exhibition, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

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