The Catskill Chronicle

 (L-r) Standing: ichelle Clark, Trainer John Raffaele, Kim Bibbo, Latevia Hilliard, Shannon Ross, Denise Solta, Albert White II, and Karen Barnes;sitting (l-r) are Sandra Vine, Manny Miranda, and Natalie Willis. Raffaele, NHC Director of Staff Training and Development had just completed an annual training workshop with a group of Direct Support Professionals.

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (October 4, 2011) – The State of New York Legislature proclaimed September 12-16, 2011 as Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week. This group enhances the lives of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities of all ages throughout the State and nation. In celebration of the honor bestowed on its DSP staff, New Hope Community recognized their DSP staff for the entire month beginning with a toast to them all on September 13, 2011 with sparkling apple cider in the lobby of the Maxine Belson Administration Building at the Loch Sheldrake Campus.

Executive Director Art Moretti welcomed everybody and introduced Leni Binder, NHC Board of Director Chair, who unveiled a proclamation of acknowledgment written by the Board and the Self-Advocates. Ms. Binder then toasted the DSP’s with the following words: “Our Direct Support Professionals are special. You made us what we are today. Our families, our Board, our whole organization can never forget what you mean to us.”

Designated DSP, Juan Journet thanked the Board for the honor on behalf of all his co-professionals. Barbara Mazer, one of those grateful people that benefits from their service, a new member of the NHC Board of Directors and avid member of the Self-Advocates Group, raised a glass in thanks to everyone present.

The month-long celebration of the DSP’s began with a breakfast during the first week of September, and will include ice cream socials, workshops, and special trainings throughout the remainder of the month. All activities are in the spirit of acknowledging the mission of Direct Support Professionals that people needing support are more likely to fulfill their life dreams if they have well-trained, experienced, and motivated people at their side in long-term, stable, compatible support relationships.

SOUTH FALLSBURG, NY (October 1, 2011) —The SYDA Foundation recently donated $3,500 to the Town of Fallsburg Police  Department for new equipment.

Some of the SYDA Foundation’s previous donations to the Fallsburg Police have helped fund all-terrain vehicles, surveillance cameras for the court room and police station, and a database.

The SYDA Foundation, based in South Fallsburg, is a not-for-profit organization that makes Siddha Yoga meditation available to students around the world. The SYDA Foundation makes regular contributions to local communities and organizations in the areas of health, safety, and education.

In the photo above, Kevin Meconi (left), a manager for the SYDA Foundation, presents a $3,500 donation to Town of Fallsburg Police Chief Simmie Williams.

Allocates $245,000 for Sullivan County businesses in towns within the New York City Watershed

GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (September 29, 2011) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau applauded the announcement of the Catskill Watershed Corporation’s creation of the 2011 Flood Recovery Grant Program for businesses in the Catskill-Delaware Watershed. Under the program, businesses that sustained structural damage to their buildings as a result of flooding from Tropical Storms Irene and Lee may receive assistance from a new program approved by the Board of Directors of the Catskill Watershed Corporation September 13.

"This assistance is vitally important to businesses that were affected by these storms and the resulting floods and loss of power. All too often small businesses get lost in the shuffle when federal and state programs assess damages under statutory criteria," said Fanslau

Meeting in special session, the CWC Board authorized the 2011 Flood Recovery Grant Program to help for-profit enterprises get back on their feet, using money from the Catskill Fund for the Future (CFF), the CWC’s economic development fund. The Board also approved establishment of a separate recovery fund using money that can be donated by outside entities. The rules for this fund have not yet been finalized, but grants would be available for both businesses and non-profit organizations and institutions. For information on how to contribute to this fund, please contact CWC Executive Director Alan Rosa at 845-586-1400.

"We want to help stores, shops, salons, mills and other small businesses that are the heart of the Catskills’ economy to get back in business as soon as possible," Rosa said. "Functioning businesses will allow our communities to recover from this disaster, and will help us resume life as we know it and love it in this beautiful region."

The new, $5 million CFF program will provide a maximum of $30,000 to businesses for labor and materials needed to repair walls, floors, foundations, windows and fixed improvements damaged in the storms of August 28 and September 9. The business portions of home-based companies are eligible for repair grants, but residences are not. Inventory losses, income loss, or expenses covered by insurance or other grants are not reimbursable. Non-profits, mobile home park operators or apartment building owners are not eligible for assistance, nor are multi-state franchises or chain stores.

The program allocates funds for each of the five counties in the Catskill-Delaware New York City Watershed, based on the percentage of Watershed land in each county. Delaware will receive up to $2,573,000, Greene $931,500, Schoharie $220,500, Sullivan $245,000 and Ulster $1,029,500.
The Supervisors of Watershed Towns in each county will decide how to divide their county’s allocation among affected municipalities, and it will be the Supervisors of those municipalities who will provide CWC with a list of businesses needing reconstruction help.

CWC staff will contact affected businesses, determine eligibility, and complete paper work, coordinating with flood insurance, participating agencies and other charities. The respective town boards must approve each grant and disbursement request. Businesses will also have the option of applying for low-interest loans through the Catskill Fund for the Future. The CWC is a non-profit, Local Development Corporation responsible for several environmental protection, economic development and education programs in the New York City Watershed West of the Hudson River.                   

FERNDALE, NY (September 29, 2011) – The brown trout featured in the logo promoting Roscoe, NY as the Ultimate Fishing Town has a name.

After a month long contest to “Name the Fish”, with over a hundred entries, the name chosen is “Hatch.”

Fifteen judges were given the entries without knowing who had submitted them. With a final vote from the judges, the name Hatch inched out Caster by one vote.

The lucky winner is Everett Kunz, a 14 year old young man from Roscoe who is a real fan of fishing. 

Hatch was announced at the recent Roscoe Fall Festival and Everett received a basket of prizes including a painting by Jack Yelle, a fishing reel from the World Fishing Network, fishing lures from the Dette’s Shop, and an assortment of other goodies.

Roscoe is proud of its World Fishing Town, USA designation after competing against other fishing destinations throughout the United States earlier this year. It came down to the final day of competition, with the entire County of Sullivan and it supporters voting to edge out Waddington, NY and win the award. 

NEWBURGH, NY (September 29, 2011) – Terrie Goldstein, publisher Hudson Valley Parent, has announce that $384 was collected for the Children’s Grieving Center at this month’s Orange County Chamber Business Expo. Visitors to HV Parent’s booth were invited to play a game of skill to win free web and magazine promotion if they made a contribution to the Center.

Hudson Valley Parent also gave away free web and magazine ad space to those who donated to the Grieving Center which will allow local businesses the opportunity to reach the over 50,000 moms who read the magazine regularly. Moms who, according to marketing research and the many pocketbooks that decorated the HV Parent booth, “hold the purse strings.”

“We were happy to be able to give back to such a worthy cause,” says Goldstein, “and to allow those who played the game of skill to win free web and magazine promotion. We had 28 companies donate, making it a very successful event for us… plus we had a great time that day. Everybody came out a winner.”

The Grieving Center spokesperson, Janice Valentino says, “Monies raised go right back to helping children who are going through a crises, and we thank Hudson Valley Parent for their collection … what a great idea.”

The Children’s Grieving Center, begun in 1996 as Junior League project, provides families in Orange & Sullivan County with loving support in a safe place where children, teens and their families grieving a death can share their experiences as they move through the healing process. “Since the mission of HV Parent magazine is to help Hudson Valley parents, what better way,” says Goldstein, “than by assisting them when their child is hurting.”

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Hudson Valley Parent is a 16-year old regional magazine, based in Newburgh. The magazine is available at hvparent.com. In addition, the magazine can be found at over 850 locations in the region. For more information, log on to www.excitingread.com.

NEW YORK STATE (September 28, 2011) – Cornell Cooperative Extension, in cooperation with the New York Farm Bureau and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has established the CCE Forage Exchange to assist farmers affected by the recent flooding. It can be reached via the front page of the Main Cornell Cooperative Extension webpage at http://cce.cornell.edu.           

The Forage Exchange provides an electronic venue for farmers who have available feed and forage to post it, and for farmers who need it to locate it. All transactions (including making arrangements for transportation) will take place between the farmers themselves.

Cooperative Extension Educators and Farm Bureau staff across the state will be available to assist farmers in using the exchange.

Bill Now Heads to President’s Desk For Signature

WASHINGTON, DC (September 27, 2011) – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced that late last night, U.S. Senate unanimously approved legislation to combat Autism.

The bill, which also passed the House of Representatives last week, now heads to the President’s desk for his signature. The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act is critical, bipartisan legislation that will extend programs authorized under the original Combating Autism Act (CAA) to continue for an additional three years.   

“Cases of autism are increasing at an alarming rate,” said Senator Gillibrand, a sponsor of the legislation. “It is vital that we invest in new research that will benefit the lives of millions. We know that early intervention is one of the best ways to ensure a child’s long term success. This legislation will help provide essential services, treatment and support for families.”

The CAA provides for autism surveillance programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as intervention and training programs at the Health Resources and Services Administration.  Additionally, this legislation allows for the continuation of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), which is responsible for advising the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) on autism polices, coordinating the federal response to autism and developing the annual strategic plan for autism research.  These programs have been critical in advancing research on the causes, diagnosis and treatments of autism. The CAA sunsets on September 30. 

Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the country, affecting on average 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys. An estimated 48,000 children across New York suffer from Autism – more than pediatric cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined.

LIBERTY, NY (September 27, 2011) – “Touch, Caring & Cancer,” hosted by the Caregiver Resource Center, will be held Wednesday, October 12 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County.

The use of comforting touch is one of the most helpful forms of support you can offer a loved one who is uncomfortable with cancer or another problem. You will get detailed instructions on simple, safe and gentle techniques to provide comfort and relaxation at home.

Guest lecturer Sue Buzzell, LMT of Natures Touch Massage Therapy will demonstrate the art of gentle soothing touch for caregivers to watch and learn. “Touch, Caring and Cancer” will be used as a guide, published by Partnersinhealing.net, winner of 2 Telly Awards in Health & Wellness Social Issues.

The caregiver can opt to practice with their partner during class (or later at home).

Topics will include: safety and positioning, frame of mind and communication, techniques to comfort the head, face, neck, shoulders, back, hands, feet and acupressure points to ease three common side effects of cancer and its treatment.

Reservations are absolutely required due to space requirements and for the comfort of the participants. No more than 12 can be accommodated at this session: call 292-5250 to RSVP.

You may bring a partner; if this individual has a cancer diagnosis, you must first consult your medical professional for their advice.

Attendees are requested to bring their preferred lotion or cream for practice, a hand towel, a pillow and a blanket. Instructions on proper hand-washing protocol and hand sanitizer will be provided.

This class is free through the ongoing support of the NYS Office for the Aging Caregiver Program.

Refreshments will be available.

LIBERTY, NY (September 20, 2011) – On Saturday, September 24, the M&M Auto Group of Liberty held a car show to raise funds for the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless.

The “Sweetest Ride II” attracted not only owners of antique cars and other unique vehicles , but also plenty of spectators of all ages.

Funds were raised through the entry fee charged to each owner, as well as through an all-you-can-eat barbecue of ribs or chicken. In addition, spectators were asked to bring non-perishable food items to benefit the Federation’s food pantry.

Entertainment was provided by Somerville, featuring local singers and songwriters Ken and Barry Somerville, Jeff Miller on keyboards and Freddy Rolff on drums.

Here are some photos from the event. To see more photos or to purchase prints from Sweetest Ride II, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

LIBERTY, NY (September 26, 2011) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has announced "that Sullivan County residents who are Food Stamp recipients, and experienced a loss of food due to Hurricane Irene may be eligible for replacement food benefits through close of business September 30, 2011.  

“You may report a food loss by telephone; however, you must complete the form "Request for Replacement Food Stamps" (LDSS-2291).

“This form can be found at http://www.mybenefits.ny.gov or obtained at the Local District office – the Sullivan County Department of Family Services in Liberty.

“Mail, fax or submit in person to the Local Department of Family Services – the Sullivan County Department of Family Services in Liberty for an eligibility determination. Contact your worker with questions at 845-292-0100.

“This replacement food stamp program has been made available through Governor Cuomo’s efforts to assist those that were impacted by Hurricane Irene, and are in the process of recovery from that storm.

“The State of New York has established the qualifying criteria for this program," said Fanslau.

HURLEYVILLE, NY (September 25, 2011) – Arnold Drogen (at left), a trustee of the SYDA Foundation, presents a $10,000 check to Jim Sullivan, chairman of the Hurleyville Board of Fire Commissioners.

This is the third donation of  $10,000 by the SYDA Foundation, which in 2008 committed to giving $50,000 over a period of five years.

The money helps to fund a pump truck, purchased by Hurleyville in 2007.

The SYDA Foundation, headquartered in the Town of Fallsburg, is a not-for-profit organization that makes Siddha Yoga meditation available to students around the world.

The Foundation is also known in Sullivan County for its philanthropic organization, the PRASAD Children’s Dental Health Program (CDHP). Since its inception in 1996, PRASAD CDHP has provided dental care for more than 62,000 children in Sullivan and Ulster counties.

Event to take place at the Sullivan County Government Center in Monticello

MONTICELLO, NY (September 23, 2011) – On Saturday, October 1, men, women and children will walk the grounds of the Sullivan County Government Center in Monticello at the 2^nd Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® event to raise funds for the RISE (Rape Intervention Services and Education) program of Sullivan County. Many of the men will wear women’s shoes during the event, which takes a light-hearted approach to a very serious subject and increases awareness of how sexual assault impacts individuals and families in Sullivan County.

Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the walk kicks-off at 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow and will include a short program, refreshments and educational booths. Anyone can walk, and same-day registrants are welcome. Men are encouraged (but not required) to walk in women’s shoes. The registration fee is $20 and participants may also secure contributions through pledges. Walkers can raise funds through FirstGiving, a user-friendly, secure Web site, which is linked on the Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) home page at www.crmcny.org. Additionally, there are many sponsorship opportunities available for local businesses.

“We are very excited about our 2^nd Annual Walk a Mile fundraiser,” said Cindy Zingher, RISE program director. “Last year was a great success and we are hoping this year will be even better. It is a great opportunity to raise awareness and get our message out to our community.”

RISE advocates for anyone who is or has been a victim of sexual abuse. Founded in 1987, RISE provides an array of services to victims of sexual abuse and offers prevention education, advocacy and assistance to victims, and accompanies them to the hospital, police or district attorney after an incident. RISE also offers confidential individual, family or couples counseling as well as support groups and professional training sessions.

For more information about RISE or the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® event, contact J.P. McGuirk at CRMC, 845-794-3300 ext. 2070 or visit www.crmcny.org. To learn more about the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® national organization, visit www.walkamileinhershoes.org

MONTICELLO, NY (September 21, 2011) – Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Jonathan F. Rouis is seeking relief for Sullivan county residents that were affected by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, from penalties and interest related to payments on school taxes. 

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has granted penalty-and-interest-free extensions on school tax payments in areas affected by these storms, in certain school districts in Ulster County.

"Today, I have sent a letter to all School District Superintendants and School Board Presidents within Sullivan County, recommending that they formally request approval for a penalty-and-interest-free extension on school tax payments for the property owners in Sullivan County,” said Rouis. 

“The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance will consider requests from the individual school districts.

“There are many of our property owners that suffered damage and financial loss from these storm events that now have placed many of our residents in an unanticipated financial hardship.

“Accordingly, I have respectfully requested that each school district take the necessary action to formally request relief for the property taxpayers in your school district, by requesting approval for residents to be granted penalty-and-interest-free extensions on paying school taxes for bills that were sent on September 1, 2011," said Rouis.

NARROWSBURG, NY (September 21, 2011) – Two special programs will take place at the Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History in Narrowsburg this weekend.

So Many Brave Men: A History of the Battle of Minisink Ford will be presented on Saturday, September 24 at 2:00 p.m.

Peter Osborne, former Director of the Minisink Valley Historical Society and one of the authors of the 2010 book, “So Many Brave Men,” will deliver a 45-minute PowerPoint presentation which explores the history of the battle and the importance of it on the lives of the settlers who lived in the Delaware River valley during the Revolutionary War. The presentation includes a handout. Copies of the new book, autographed by the authors, will be available for sale.

On Sunday, September 25 at 2:00 p.m., the museum will present Getting Started in Genealogy.

Gloria McCullough and Ann O’Hara of the Wayne County (PA) Historical Society will deliver their popular PowerPoint presentation, answer questions and provide handouts.

Seating for both events is limited. Advance registration is suggested. Call 845-252-6660.

LIBERTY, NY (September 20, 2011) – In danger of closing earlier this year, The Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless received a new lease on life when it became the recipient of funds engineered by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.

Now, another infusion of cash is on the way, courtesy of M&M Auto Group of Liberty, which will hold a Car Show on Saturday, September 24 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., rain or shine.

The $10.00 entry fee per car, as well as raffles and all-you-can-eat barbecue will benefit the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless.

There will be light judging with prizes and, as an additional benefit to the Federation, the sponsor is asking that all spectators bring a non-perishable food item to stock the food pantry’s shelves.

M&M Auto Group is located at 127-131 Mill Street in Liberty, NY. Contact M&M Auto Group at 845-292 3500 or Steve White at 845-794 8018 for additional information.

MONTICELLO, NY (September 19, 2011) – Three local citizens were honored Sunday night at the annual Landfield Synagogue Awards Dinner.

Retired County Court Judge Burt Ledina (at left in photo), Sheriff Michael Schiff (at right in photo), and Sullivan County resident Shirely Sims received awards from Congregation Tifereth Israel as the Association begins its 100 year anniversary celebration.

Judge Ledina was honored for his 40 years of service as a member of the Judiciary.

Michael Schiff was honored for his service to the community as Sheriff of Sullivan County, and Shirely Sims was recognized as "Aishes Chayil" or "Woman of Valor" for her philanthropic and charitable work.

Guests were treated to an enjoyable evening of music and fine food with Master of Ceremonies Bill James directing the program and Rabbi Ben-Zion Chanowitz presiding.

MONTICELLO, NY (September 19, 2011) – The Retired Senior Volunteer Program of Sullivan County would like to wish a happy 104th birthday to their oldest volunteer, Marie Zalesky.

Marie turns 104 on September 20. She has been volunteering at the Grover M. Hermann Division of the Catskill Regional Medical Center for 40+ years.

And in Marie’s honor, Senator John Bonacic has prepared an official birthday proclamation.

Happy birthday, Marie. And many more !!!

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 18, 2011) – The rescheduled program with Diane Galusha, author of When Cauliflower Was King (Purple Mountain Press, 2004), will take place on Saturday, September 24 at 1:00 p.m. at Morgan Outdoors, 46 Main Street in Livingston Manor, NY. The public is invited to this free event. Galusha will regale the audience with a look at the rise and fall of the cauliflower industry in the Catskills.

Across the street, from 1:00 p.m. on, Main Street Farm will offer samples of several house specialties made with cauliflower, with opportunities to learn about the botanical characteristics of this heirloom vegetable, and buy new varieties offered by local farmers.

This event is a “Locavore Challenge”effort. To learn more about the challenge, find details at https://nofany.org/events/ny-locavore-challenge.

For a good part of the 20^th century, the Catskills, in particular Delaware County to the north, grew what was widely considered the best cauliflower anywhere. Mineral-rich soil, and a moderate climate with warm days and cool nights that usually allowed slow and solid head development, made this region famous for its premium quality cauliflower.

Marketing cooperatives worked together to increase efficiency and maximize profit. The Walton-Hamden Cauliflower Growers Co-operative was among the most active and long lasting, existing from the mid-1920s through 1954. The distinctive label created for this co-op was slightly modified in recent years to become the logo of Pure Catskills, and is an image that now graces the side of the Main Street Farm store in Livingston Manor.

Galusha is the author of several books of local and regional history, including “Liquid Assets: A History of New York City’s Water System,” “Another Day, Another Dollar,” “The Civilian Conservation Corps in the Catskills,” and “As the River Runs, A History of Halcottville, NY.”

Team members take an elevator to the Battle (L to R: Leif Johansen. Tara Carlson, Michael Peirpoint, Khris DiBartolo, Lexi Pierpoint and Gem Helper.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY (September 16, 2011) – The Livingston Manor Library Battle of the Books Team returned from the annual RCLS Battle of the Books in West Haverstraw, NY on Saturday, September 10, after an exciting second place finish.

Out of 10 competing teams, representing 12 libraries in the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS), the Manor Library made it to the championship in which the score was tied until the very last tie-breaking question.

The Livingston Manor Library team was competing for the first time, and was the only team from Sullivan County.

The other 9 teams represented libraries from Orange and Rockland Counties. The New City Library team won the championship, after taking second place in 2010.

The Battle of the Books team was comprised of Tara Carlson, Khris DiBartolo, Gem Helper, Leif Johansen, Lexi Pierpoint and Michael Pierpoint.

Members read eight required books over the summer in order to be able to answer questions in a game-show type contest, competing for cash prizes.

Youth in grades 6 to 12 who are interested in learning more about the RCLS Battle of the Books can call the Livingston Manor Library at 845-439-5440.

Businesses may apply through September 30

MONTICELLO, N.Y. (September 16, 2011) – Sullivan County businesses that suffered damage from the recent severe weather, including Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, can apply for a low-interest loan from The Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development.

A $100,000 fund has been created, thanks to the generous donations of $25,000 from Empire Resorts and Entertainment Properties Trust, $50,000 from The Louis R. Cappelli Foundation, and $25,000 from the Sullivan County Partnership’s business loan fund. $10,000 has been directed by The Louis R. Cappelli Foundation as a grant to Holiday Mountain Ski and Fun Park to assist with job retention and recovery from the hurricanes.

Businesses can apply for a maximum loan of $10,000 at 1% interest for up to five years. The Partnership has also waived the normal application fees. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2011.

“It is terrific when our corporate citizens step forward in a time of need to help our community,” said Allan Scott, President and CEO of the Partnership. “We are excited they selected the Partnership for this important role and proud to contribute $25,000 in resources from our business loan fund.”

For more information, or to request an application, please call the Sullivan County Partnership at 845-794-1110.

LIBERTY, NY (September 15, 2011) – On the first day of its first-ever “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon.” Thunder 102, its partner businesses and listeners raised over $14,000.

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 website says that. “Through the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids fund-raising program, country music fans have pledged more than $200 million to St. Jude since the program began in 1989. All segments of the country music industry – radio stations, artists, record labels, artist managers and songwriters – participate in the Country Cares program throughout the year. …”

And so, Thunder 102, a station of the Bold Gold Media Group, has joined the ranks of hundreds of other stations to hold their first annual “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon,” a two-day effort which brings together radio station fans and businesses to raise money for St. Jude to continue its life-saving mission.

As Thunder 102 personalities Mike Sakell of “Sakell in the Afternoon,” and Paul Ciliberto and Michelle Semerano of “Ciliberto and Friends” hosted the day-long event, and spoke with various country artists throughout the day, a friendly rivalry was taking place in the lobby during the late afternoon.

Howard Braunstein (photo above left) from the M&M Auto Group and Alan Kesten (photo right) from Yellow Cab were trying to outdo the other in bringing in donations. The duo were also competing to sign up St. Jude Partners in Hope – a $20-a-month donation billed directly to a credit card.

Trying to keep order among the many government representatives, business owners, and friends (Thunderheads as the station fondly refers to its fans) in and out of the studio was Al Frangipane (photo left), longtime volunteer for so many charities in the Thunder Country listening area. He also announced the hourly totals, as well as totals from the Bethel Woods Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Boot Cards that have been available at many businesses in “Thunder Country.” Boot Cards will continue to be available through this coming weekend. The list of businesses that have them available can be found by clicking here.

Day 2 of the “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon” on Thunder 102 starts at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow (Friday, September 16, 2011). To make a donation, or to become a Partner in Hope call 800-720-5944.

And to learn more about St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, go to www.stjude.org.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from the “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon” on Thunder 102, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio by clicking this link: http://chronicle.zenfolio.com/p230837916.

Monticello Motor Club members donated $40,000 on behalf of local law enforcement at the 2nd Annual Cops for Kids on Saturday, September 10. Pictured L-R: Eric Chaboty, Undersheriff for Sullivan County, Gordon Warnock, Tom Mungeer, President of NY State Troopers PBA, and Richard Amedure.

New York State Troopers Take Home Bragging Rights

MONTICELLO, NY (September 14, 2011) – Monticello Motor Club hosted its 2^nd Annual “Cops for Kids” fundraiser on Saturday, September 10, raising $40,000 on behalf of local law enforcement.

The first place New York State Troopers team included drivers Mike Belgiovene, Dan Sisto, Steve Amedure, Dan Tompkins and Gary Nuessle.

Three teams competed in time trials on behalf of their selected not-for-profit groups. 100% of the $40,000 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 Allyson Strong, a 25-year old Monticello woman with a rare form of cancer.

· 1^st place: NYS Troopers PBA – Signal 30 Fund received a $20,000 donation

· 2^nd place: Sullivan County Sheriff’s PBA – Sheriff’s Institute Summer Camp received a $12,000 donation

· 3^rd place: Monticello PBA – Allyson Strong Fund – received an $8,000 donation

LIBERTY, NY (September 14, 2011) – On Saturday, September 17, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Liberty-based Catskill Harvest Gourmet Market & Garden Center will host “The Slow Food Fair,” an event aimed toward educating the community on the benefits of eating local, organic food and ways to incorporate this food into everyday living.

The event benefits Slow Food Upper Delaware River Valley (UpDeRiVa) and Catskill Mountainkeeper.

The Slow Food Fair’s showcase activity focuses on discovering and tasting what kinds of food comprise a full-course “Slow Food” meal. Guests will visit a series of food stations set up throughout the Catskill Harvest Garden Center. Each food station highlights a different course of a “Slow Food” meal. 

As a way to spotlight Sullivan County food suppliers, each course will be provided by a local business whose business philosophy and food products uphold the “Slow Food” approach to living and eating.

The “Slow Food Fair” meal features: a main course from Chef Marcus Guiliano of Aroma Thyme Bistro,  Ellenville; a side dish/salad from Neversink Farm, Claryville; bread from Flour Power Bakery, Livingston Manor; dessert from Early Bird Cookery, Callicoon.

Guests will also enjoy live entertainment by the Tessera String Quartet.

"From music and local, sustainable food to community groups and the arts, we’ve got it all right here in the Catskills," says Emily Deans, Catskill Mountainkeeper’s Agricultural Coordinator. "This is about keeping it in the Catskills and celebrating our community, our people and all we produce."

Catskill Harvest created “The Slow Food Fair” to educate the public about: Slow Food UpDeRiVa and Catskill Mountainkeeper. The event is part of the “Neighbors First” program, launched at the beginning of 2011 to create awareness-education programs and to give back to Sullivan County.

Earlier this year, Catskill Harvest’s first “Neighbors First” promotion, Pie-of-July, resulted in a $620 donation to the CACHE Food Bank.

Catskill Harvest (and “The Slow Food Fair”) is an official sponsor of the NY Locavore Challenge.

Longtime member Allan Dampman will receive the History Preserver Award

HURLEYVILLE – ROSCOE (September 14, 2011) – In the past, the Sullivan County Historical Society, at their Annual Dinner, has awarded individuals from Sullivan County with the honor of “History Preserver.” 

The honoree is a person who symbolizes the stated mission of the Society: the preservation of Sullivan County history for the enlightenment of future generations. 

This year, on October 16, the Society will honor Allan Dampman, a longtime member of the Board of Directors for Historical Society, with the “History Preserver” award in recognition of the years he has devoted to serving the Society in various capacities, and providing leadership and coordination to the yearly Commemoration of the Battle of Minisink program.

Though Allan’s chosen career was in the ministry, he eventually turned his interests toward education, joining the staff at Sullivan County Community College during that institution’s formative years. 

Serving as Associate Dean, Allan’s work involved developing community relations as well as acting as program administrator for the college – skills that served him well when he joined the Sullivan County Historical Society. 

Under his leadership as SCHS President, the Society sponsored numerous popular programs and successful fund-raising endeavors. He later served the Society as its treasurer for sixteen years.

Equally important, Allan helps organize and coordinate the annual ceremony honoring the Revolutionary soldiers who resisted the Tory and Indian raids along the Delaware, culminating in a battle upon the heights overlooking Minisink Ford. Though these brave patriots were routed, the battle’s importance would soon be apparent with the demise of the enemy by General Sullivan and the opening up of western territories free from British influences.

Join the Sullivan County Historical Society in honoring Allan Dampman on Sunday, October 16 at The Rockland House in Roscoe, NY. Dinner is $30.00 per person, with a social hour beginning at 4:00 p.m. and dinner at 5:00 p.m.

Please call 845-434-8044 for information or reservations by October 8.

GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (September 14, 2011) – Caring for Caregivers, an educational discussion group that supports family caregivers, will resume monthly meetings on Tuesday, October 11 at 6:00 p.m. at the Daniel Pierce Library on Route 55 (Main Street) in Grahamsville, NY.

Meetings will continue on the second Tuesday of the month in the library’s second-floor conference room. Meetings are always free with light refreshments provided.

Caring for Caregivers is intended to provide both support and new resources to assist the informal family caregiver helping an aging, ill or disabled adult loved one or friend.

Facilitated by the Caregiver Resource Center, (a program provided by Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Office for the Aging of Sullivan County), it enables family caregivers to tap into the resources provided by both offices for caregiving and senior assistance.

The AARP curriculum “Caring for Those You Care About” is frequently used as a resource, as well as other NYS Office for the Aging resources.

Guest speakers are invited periodically to also provide new information or services for family caregiving needs.

Caregivers can call 845-292-5250 (Cornell Cooperative Extension) for further information. Reservations are not necessary.

If the weather is inclement during the future winter months, please listen to area radio stations for notification that the library is (or will be) closing and the caregiving meeting will be cancelled for that month.

CLARYVILLE, NY (September 14, 2011) — On August 28, Hurricane Irene caused an overwhelming amount of destruction to  the Frost Valley YMCA Camp and Conference Center. 

On September 6, 2011 Tropical Storm Lee caused additional flooding and damage and washed out some recent road repairs. The current estimate for damages on the property is $750,000. 

Road crews worked tirelessly to have Frost Valley’s road access back open for the weekend of September 10, 2011.   

The collective damage from both hurricanes has disrupted the lives of the Frost Valley YMCA residents and campers in many ways. They had to cancel several popular events like Family Camp Week, Labor Day Weekend, a private wedding, and two Environmental Education school group trips. 

Frost Valley YMCA is now open for business as the cleanup continues, such as cutting trees, clearing camp roads, and cleaning up water in buildings. 

The Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Directors are focused on the financial steps needed to start the rebuilding.

Frost Valley is seeking donations through their website of www.frostvalley.org/relieffund. They will be announcing other help needed as they get a better idea of the damage.

For continuous coverage, follow them on Twitter: twitter.com/frostvalley or on Facebook: facebook.com/frostvalley.

For questions about programs, please check their website or email info@frostvalley.org.

MONTICELLO, NY (September 12, 2011) – SLAC, The Senior Legislative Action Committee and The Family Council of the Sullivan County Adult Care Center are co-sponsoring a Forum on Health Issues on Friday, September 23, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. in the Legislative Hearing Room of the Government Center in Monticello.

All 17 candidates for the Sullivan County Legislature have been invited to address the audience and to respond to questions. Three incumbent Legislators have chosen not to run again.

As always, the meeting is free and open to all and the public is urged to attend and inform others of this opportunity to address concerns in this difficult period of fiscal challenge.

Both the organizations are non-partisan, non-sectarian and non-profit, and do not endorse political candidates.

For further information, call Priscilla Bassett, co-chair of SLAC at 845-985-7901 and Fred Robertson, President of the Family Council at 845-434-4974.

Front row: D. Levner, E. Kalter, R. Topper, N. Catalano, W. Duncan, C. Cohen.

Middle row: C. Stangel, D. Stern, D. Glatt, A. Hussey, C. Schwartz, B. Cohen, Joan Kasofsky, Jay Kasofsky.

Standing: M. Atkins, C. Lake, R. Phillips, S. Krutman, D. Schlau, M. Weisman, S. Cecil, S. Tollin, S. Levy, J. Leshner, E. Park, S. Greer, L. Sheard.

MONTICELLO, NY (September 12, 2011) – The annual Retirees Breakfast for the faculty and staff of the Fallsburg Central Jr. – Sr. High School and the Benjamin Cosor Elementary School took place on Thursday, September 8 at the Blue Horizon Diner in Monticello.

It has become a much anticipated tradition for the teachers and staff to gather during the opening week of school. The group often hears from retirees who live too far away to attend. Letters are read, photos are shown, and a lot of catching up is done.

This year, many anecdotal stories were shared honoring Martin Van Vleet, a former Guidance Counselor and much loved basketball coach who recently passed away.

The group offers special thanks to Ceil Cohen and Nancy Catalano for organizing this year’s breakfast.

 SOUTH FALLSBURG, NY (September 12, 2011) – The Fallsburg Senior Club inducted its 150th member on August 30 when Lola Zisser of South Fallsburg joined the organization.

The club is open to all seniors who reside in Sullivan County.

Meetings are held every Tuesday, year-round at 1:00 p.m. in the Fallsburg Senior Center on Laurel Avenue in South Fallsburg.

Besides social interaction, the group presents guest speakers, goes on one-day, overnight and multiple-night trips, and many other interesting and fulfilling activities.

Poem by Arlene Maria Hoffman, Photo by Carol Montana

Such a beautiful day

Everything was perfect

Puffy clouds in a sky so blue and

Then out of nowhere

Evil, horror, unspeakable actions

Murderers of the innocent

Babies on planes, children in daycare

Emergency services, Firemen, Policeman

Running to help, to rescue, and to save lives

Endangering themselves, laying down their lives

Loved ones left behind to grieve to try to

Explain to other little ones how Daddy and Mommy were

Very brave forcing a plane to the ground saving others but won’t

Ever be coming home again

Now we start to pick up the pieces

Then the grief, the anger and now the retribution

Heaven, Dear God, please don’t let us ever forget