The Catskill Chronicle

HASBROUCK, NY (February 7, 2011) – Starting Tuesday, March 1st, a new community art class will be offered at the second floor of The Old Stone House in Hasbrouck, NY. This series of classes will offer an opportunity to explore our inner world through mixed media art of collage, drawing, painting, and anything else one can imagine. No art experience is necessary, just a desire to explore one’s own creativity.

The class will be offered by Ms. Paulina Tracz, a local graphic designer, and held on a weekly basis. Participants may join on any Tuesday starting March 1st, 2011. The first class that a student attends will be free, while subsequent classes will cost $10 to cover supplies and a donation to support the Old Stone House.

The Old Stone House is the historic art gallery and community center in Hasbrouck, NY. For the past several years, the facility has hosted works by scores of highly regarded local and regional artists and offered community events. It is located at 282 Hasbrouck Road in Hasbrouck, at the intersection of Benton Hollow Road, just 15 minutes from Liberty, NY.
For more information and photos, please contact:
Paulina at design@simplepea.com or visit www.simplepea.com

FERNDALE, NY (February 7, 2011) – Cornell Cooperative Extension’s AARP Tax Aide Volunteers are able to provide free tax preparation. This service is set up for taxpayers with low and middle income, with special attention to those- age 60 and older.

AARP Tax Aide is: a free, quality service supported by friendly people in your neighborhood. It is a free and confidential service that prepares tax returns and answers tax questions. This program has over 32,000 dedicated and proud IRS – certified volunteers. Assistance is available at nearly 7,000 sites nationwide from late January through April 15^th.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County takes appointments only, no walk ins. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County at 845-292-5250 and ask for the AARP Tax-Aide Program to get your appointment today! Call Susan at 845-292-5250 ex 127.

LIBERTY, NY (February 7, 2011) Have you called a parent or other relative living far away and found yourself worried about how they are caring for themselves? Long Distance Caregiving will provide current and future caregivers advice and resources to help care for a relative or friend who lives a distance away and may not have a primary caregiver living nearby.

A program by the Caregiver Resource Center, Long Distance Caregiving will be presented at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County (64 Ferndale-Loomis Road, Liberty) on Thursday February 17 (alternate snow date Tuesday 2/22) from 1- 3 pm. Participants will receive handout materials and home resources as part of their packets.

Topics included:

1. How will I know if help is needed?

2. What can I really do from far away?

3. Designating who does what.

4. Making the most of a visit ~ including the doctor’s appointment!

5. Documentation and Resources.

There is a minimum (five) and maximum (twenty) for Long Distance Caregiving. Please contact Cornell Cooperative Extension at 292-5250 or 292-6180 to register. The Caregiver Resource Center politely requests a suggested donation of $5 for the class to support the program and cost of materials. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

Pictured from left to right: Paul Harris Fellow recipients Jack Strassman, Jack Etter, President Dave Thomson, Harris recipient Karen VanCraenenbroeck, District 7210 ADG Barry Foster, and Harris recipient Russ Bogie. – Provided photo

LIBERTY, NY (February 6, 2011) – The Liberty Rotary Club presented four of its most active and involved members with the honor of becoming a Paul Harris Fellow. The presentation took place at the club’s recent weekly meeting at Charlie’s Restaurant (Former Cobbler’s) on Main Street in Liberty. The recipients of this prestigious award were Russ Bogie, Jack Etter, Karen VanCraenenbroeck, and Jack Strassman who have demonstrated Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” for many years through serving as club officers, chairing rotary projects and participating in rotary activities. Etter, VanCraenenbroeck and Strassman are past presidents and Bogie has been treasurer of the local club for many years.

According to Gary Siegel, Liberty Rotary Vice President, a Paul Harris Fellow is awarded to those Rotarian who have donations totaling $1000 contributed in their name to the Rotary Foundation. The Paul Harris Society is named after Paul P. Harris, founder of Rotary international. His intention was to recapture in a professional club the same friendly spirit he had felt in the small towns of his youth. Today, Paul Harris Society contributions to The Rotary Foundation support a wide range of humanitarian grants and educational programs that enable Rotarians to bring hope and promote international understanding throughout the world.

Each of the new Paul Harris Fellows were presented with a commemorative certificate and pin by Rotary District 7210 Assistant District Governor Barry Foster. “We are so proud to have four new Paul Harris Fellows in our district. It is a tribute to the work of these individuals and the members of the Liberty Rotary Club who make a difference in our community, district and internationally through the volunteer work that we do,” says ADG Foster.

Most recently the Liberty Rotary Club has donated to Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County, Boys and Girls Club of Sullivan County, Liberty AYSO and this past weekend they collected and delivered five shopping carts full of food to the local food pantry. Currently the club is conducting a raffle to benefit the Liberty Interfaith Food Pantry as well as other community organizations and rotary projects. In addition the club will be participating in the WSUL/WVOS heartathon on February 26^th and will be selling roses in the spring to raise money for scholarships which are awarded annually. For more information about membership and activities of the Liberty Rotary Club, call 292-5100.

Captions for photos – Left to Right: Liberty Rotary President Dave Thomson (left) and Rotary District 7210 Assistant District Governor Barry Foster (right) present Liberty Rotary Past President Jack Etter (center) with his Paul Harris Fellow Award.

Liberty Rotary President Dave Thomson (left) and Rotary District 7210 Assistant District Governor Barry Foster (right) present Liberty Rotary Past President and Liberty High School Principal Jack Strassman (center) with his Paul Harris Fellow Award.

Liberty Rotary President Dave Thomson (left) and Rotary District 7210 Assistant District Governor Barry Foster (right) present Liberty Rotary Past President Karen VanCraenenbroeck (center) with her Paul Harris Fellow Award.

Liberty Rotary President Dave Thomson (left) and Rotary District 7210 Assistant District Governor Barry Foster (right) present Liberty Rotary Treasurer Russ Bogie (center) with his Paul Harris Fellow Award.

MONTICELLO, NY (February 5, 2011) – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D, C – Forestburgh) visited the Monticello Central High School on February 2 to congratulate and thank the students and faculty involved with the new LGBT Supporters Club, and this week’s “No Name Calling Week” program at the school.

“When I heard about the students’ new club and the No Name Calling Week program I wanted to meet with the students and teachers to commend them for their efforts,” said Gunther. “By working with other students to end bullying in their school, these Monticello teens have shown real leadership on a very important and timely issue.”

Monticello High School recently launched a new club, the LGBTS club, or Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,
Transgender Supporters club. The club will address bullying amongst all students.

Club members decided to participate in "No Name Calling Week," as part of the overall anti-bullying campaign at the high school. "No Name Calling Week" started January 31 and ended on February 4.

This is an event of educational and creative activities aimed at ending name calling and bullying in the school. The members of LGBTS hoped to encourage students to take pride in themselves and to also respect others, regardless of differences.

“Last year the Governor signed legislation I supported in the Assembly called the Dignity for all
Students Act,” said Gunther. “This new law ensures all students an environment free of any harassment regardless of the basis of the harassment, and free of discrimination based on actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex.

“But this new law does not take effect until July 1, 2012. In the meantime, these Monticello students are doing their part to ensure a safe and secure environment for all students in their school.”
Part of the week of activities includes asking other students and teachers to sign a Pledge which states:

“I believe that bullying and calling other students hurtful names is wrong. I pledge to do my best to:

 Not bully other students or call them hurtful names;
 Intervene if I safely can, in situations where students are being called names;
 Support efforts to end bullying and name calling.”

The pledge also offers advice on how to stay safe from bullying.

MONTICELLO, NY (February 4, 2011) – Neither snow nor sleet, or the threat of it, could keep ThunderHeads (the name given to fans of radio station Thunder 102) from donating blood to support the 5^th Annual Thunder Blood Bowl held at Monticello Casino & Raceway on Wednesday, January 26. 

The Thunder Blood Bowl is one of the largest blood drives in  Sullivan County and has been setting the record each of the past four years for a single drive blood. This year was no different as almost 100 Thunder 102 listeners, local business and government leaders signed in, donating 78 units for the local blood bank during this critical period. 

“Our ThunderHeads never cease to amaze me in their capacity to give,” commented Paul Ciliberto, Market Manager/General Manager and host of Ciliberto & Friends, “we even had eight first-time donors during this drive”.

During the event, Thunder 102 gift packs containing, among other items, CDs from new country artists were given away each hour. One lucky person won a Take Out Super Bowl Party from Dutch’s Tavern and another donor won a gift basket courtesy of Monticello Casino & Raceway. 

Thunder 102 and the American Red Cross, along with Catskill Regional Medical Center and Monticello Casino & Raceway sponsored the Thunder Blood Bowl to help facilitate blood donations for the local chapter of the American Red Cross.

Thunder 102 and its parent company, Bold Gold Media Group, were honored in 2007 as Sponsor of the Year for their work with the American Red Cross Blood Services. Thunder 102 asks its listeners to support the American Red Cross by giving blood at local blood drives. In addition, the Thunder 102 American Red Cross Minute keeps its listeners apprised of upcoming blood drives, which helps raise awareness for the need for blood donation throughout its listening area.

Carol Montana photo

MONTICELLO, NY (February 2, 2011) – Residents, business owners and anyone with an interest in Monticello’s future are invited by Sullivan Renaissance to hear an update about the positive work happening in Monticello. 

The community meeting will be held on Sunday, February 13 at 2:00 p.m. in the Monticello Fire House on Richardson Avenue in Monticello.

The primary purpose of the February 13 meeting is to update the community on the work being done, share ideas about future projects, and present opportunities for volunteering.

Sullivan Renaissance has spent the last decade supporting hundreds of projects throughout Sullivan County, many of which have been in the Village of Monticello, the county seat. For the last year Renaissance staff has been working closely with village officials, business owners, students and other partners on several new initiatives designed to improve Monticello.

“Now is the time Sullivan Renaissance would like to encourage residents to come together, share their ideas and participate in specific beautification efforts in Monticello to further compliment efforts already being realized” said Sandra Gerry, who chairs Sullivan Renaissance. “Spring will be here soon and we need to be ready to start planning and planting!”

Copies of the NYSDOT landscaping plans for Broadway will be on display, along with renderings of the decorative street lamps that are slated for installation beginning in the spring.

“We are happy to be partnering with Sullivan Renaissance on installation of the street lights,” said Mayor Gordon Jenkins, “The village trustees have also been working on many positive things in the village and we are looking forward to an opportunity to tell residents about our work.”

In addition to updates by Sullivan Renaissance and village officials, representatives from other groups will also report on their activities.  This will include: an outline of plans to market Broadway and organize events in the coming year from the newly-formed Monticello Business Association; and a unique perspective offered by Monticello High School students who participated in the Monticello Youth Summit in October.

Refreshments will be served. For more information contact Sullivan Renaissance at 845-295-2445.  Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program principally funded by the Gerry Foundation.

This just in…

Individuals wishing to attend the Sullivan Renaissance Winter Conference and Expo on Saturday, February 26 can register and sign up for workshops directly on-line.  Go to www.sullivanrenaissance.org and click on the Sullivan Renaissance Rooster at the top of the page. 

This year’s conference will focus on “The Value and Benefits of Community Beautification to Economic Development” featuring an address by Dr. Peter Tarlow, an international specialist in tourism.  The conference features exhibits and workshops on garden design, trees for public places, community gardens, recruiting volunteers, cultivating leaders, partnering with young people and economic development.  It will also outline the new 2011 Sullivan Renaissance grant program and have applications available.

In addition to the keynote address, Dr. Tarlow will present a workshop on “Making the Most of Your Assets.”  He has lectured throughout the world on current and future trends in the tourism industry, rural tourism, economic development, the gaming industry and issues of crime and terrorism.  All workshop space is limited to the first registrants.

The conference is located at CVI Building in Ferndale.  It begins at 8:00 a.m. with breakfast and registration.  The program starts at 9:00 a.m. and runs to 1:00 p.m.  Everyone is welcome.  There is no registration fee for this conference.

Those unable to register on-line should call the Sullivan Renaissance office at 845-295-2445 to obtain a form.  Completed forms may be faxed to 845-295-2746; scanned and emailed to sgonzalez@sullivanrenaissance.org; or mailed to Sullivan Renaissance, c/o Gerry Foundation, PO Box 311, Liberty, NY 12754.

Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program principally funded by the Gerry Foundation.  For more information, call 845-295-2445.

WASHINGTON, DC (January 31, 2011) – As part of his effort to improve the health reform law, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) last week became an original co-sponsor of  a bill that would repeal a provision that in 2012 will require businesses to send IRS Form 1099s for every business-to-business transaction of $600 or more for both property and services. 

The Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2011, H.R. 417, would help small businesses, which say the requirement needlessly complicates the tax filing process without offering a foreseeable benefit.

“Employers in our part of New York and across the country should be in the job creating business – not the paperwork business," said Hinchey. "The health care law made a lot of important improvements but we need to continually work for smart changes that everyone can agree on. This new requirement won’t improve our health care system and it needs to be eliminated. That’s what I’m working hard to do, and I’m hopeful that we’ll get bipartisan support."

President Obama highlighted the new 1099s filing requirement in his State of the Union address, noting that it would place an "unnecessary bookkeeping burden on small businesses." The expanded reporting requirement is not currently in place and is not scheduled to take effect until 2012. The provision was included in the Affordable Care Act to raise revenue by reducing the “tax gap,” or the amount of income that goes unreported by large corporations, by requiring more comprehensive reporting of purchases of property and services.

H.R. 417 is fully paid for by a 5.4% surcharge on adjusted gross income that exceeds $1,000,000 annually for joint tax filers and $800,000 annually for individual filers.  Any revenue raised in excess of the amount necessary to offset the repeal of the 1099 requirement is required to be used to pay down the federal deficit and debt.

Hinchey has also targeted several other areas where the Affordable Care law could be improved to further lower costs and improve the system as a whole. Notably, he has focused on allowing for the negotiation of prescription drug costs through Medicare to save $156 billion over ten years and accelerating the time frame for implementing provisions that reduce prescription drug costs and reduce Medicare fraud. The congressman has also cited a need for an expedited timeframe with regard to provisions that create greater choice and competition and noted his continued support for a public option that the Congressional Budget Office says would further reduce costs.

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (January 27, 2011) – The Great Sullivan County Foodraiser is back.

Now too large for any one venue, The Great Sullivan County Foodraiser will take place on Saturday, February 5 from 6:00 p.m. till whenever at three separate locations: Mr. Willy’s Restaurant in Monticello, The Dancing Cat Saloon and Distillery in Bethel and Dutch’s Tavern in Rock Hill.

Stacy and Friends and Community Unity will present three  times the bands and three times the fun.

Everyone is invited to come down and play music or listen to music or just hang with the crowd.

Stacy and Friends will be at the Dancing Cat, up and coming young bands will be at Dutch’s Tavern, and Mr. Willy’s will have established bands, beginning with a 45-minute set by local country music sensation Somerville.

There is no cover charge to enter but while there, Community Unity will be raising funds to support the twenty-one food pantries of Sullivan County.

Five dollars sponsors one person for one hot meal at the soup kitchen at the Federation for the Homeless. Twenty-five dollars sponsors a bag of food for a family to get through a weekend. You can even choose which food pantry you wish to sponsor.

For more information call Steve White at 845-583-4808 or Claire Sullivan at 845-557-3642 or check out the Stacy and Friends website and click on Sweet Charity.

ELDRED, NY (January 26, 2011) – The newly-formed Committees on Energy and the Environment of the Towns of Highland and Lumberland will co-host an informational forum on Saturday, February 19 to explore home-rule options as a safeguard against the dangers of natural gas extraction.

Attorneys Ben Price of the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund (www.celdf.org ) and Helen Slottje of the Community Environmental Defense Council (www.cedclaw.org ), whose community environmental law firms have civil rights and home-rule expertise, will be on hand to discuss local powers regarding gas drilling with members of the towns’ boards, zoning boards, planning boards, energy and environment committees and concerned citizens.

The forum will run from 10:00 a.m. until 12 Noon at the Eldred High School, 600 State Route 55, Eldred. The public is welcome to attend, although there will be limited time for questions.

A work session for town officials and committee members will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Highland Senior Center, 725 State Route 55, Eldred.

In case of inclement weather, check the Town of Highland website (www.townofhighlandny.com) for possible event cancellation or postponement.

For further information go to: www.highlandconcernedcitizens.com.

HARRIS, NY (January 25, 2011) – Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) announced today that Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Nancy Eschenberg has joined the Callicoon Family Health Center in Callicoon, N.Y.

The Callicoon Family Health Center, located at the Grover M. Hermann Hospital Physician Office Suite at 8881 NYS Route 97, offers preventive medicine, geriatrics and adult medicine. Eschenberg leads the practice, which offers same or next day appointments. The office is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The office phone number is 845-887-5693. 

“Nancy is a welcome addition to our practice in Callicoon,” said Steven Ruwoldt, CRMC’s CEO. “She is an experienced nurse practitioner with a well-respected reputation throughout Sullivan County and its surrounding communities. This practice addresses a very important health care need in Western Sullivan County and the neighboring communities in Pennsylvania.”

Eschenberg has more than 30 years of nursing experience in Sullivan County, and was most recently FNP at Liberty Medical Group in Liberty, N.Y. She earned her associate degree in nursing from Felician College in Lodi, N.J., and her Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification from Decker School of Nursing, Binghamton University in Binghamton, N.Y. Eschenberg is a member of the New York State Nurse Practitioners Association and Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing.

“I am looking forward to providing care to the local community in Callicoon and the surrounding communities,” said Eschenberg. “It is very exciting, as I am a Callicoon resident and understand the need for health care in Western Sullivan County.”

The Callicoon Family Health Center will hold an open house from 2 to 6 p.m. on February 24, where the public can meet Eschenberg and staff, tour the facility and enjoy refreshments.

A member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, Catskill Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality health care to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, visit www.crmcny.org.

MONTICELLO, NY (January 25, 2011) – The Monticello Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Edward Rhine, of Chocowinity, North Carolina, as the Interim Superintendent of Schools for the Monticello Central School District. Mr. Rhine was officially appointed at the January 20^th Board of Education meeting to fill the position of Dr. Patrick Michel, the current superintendent, who is leaving in the beginning of February to take a new position at Hamilton, Fulton, Montgomery BOCES. Mr. Rhine’s appointment will start on February 7, 2011 and is intended to run until the hiring of a new superintendent. The Monticello District is currently in the process of working with the Sullivan County BOCES in the search for a new superintendent. If all goes as planned, the Board of Education will make its selection for the new superintendent in May.

Mr. Rhine retired in 2002 with eight years of service as a Superintendent, serving the Ellenville Central School District, and Highland Falls Central School Districts. Since then he has completed five interim assignments in the last six years. Included in his interim assignments are Liberty Central School where he served as Superintendent in 2002-2003 and 2006-2008, Superintendent of Florida UFSD from 2002- 2004, Superintendent of New Paltz Central School in 2004-2005, and Superintendent of Millbrook Central School in 2005-2006. Mr. Rhine brings with him a strong commitment and dedication to doing what is best for the district. Mr. Rhine brings more than experience to the district; he has been selected by his peers to serve as a mentor to beginning Superintendents and to be a member of the Board of Directors of EDUCORPS, a not-for-profit, tax-exempt, consulting service chartered by the state Board of Regents to provide guidance and advice to chief school officers and their staff.

"The Board of Education feels very fortunate to have found such a highly qualified person that brings with him such a wealth of knowledge and many years of experience to this interim position. We are very much looking forward to working with Mr. Rhine and welcome him into our entire educational community." stated Board of Education President, Susan Purcell.

For more information please contact Sullivan County BOCES at (845) 295-4016 or the Monticello School at (845) 794-7700.

LIBERTY, NY (January 24, 2011) – The Catskill Artists Gallery presents Carol Montana of Big Sky Productions in an afternoon of short stories and homemade desserts called “Shorts and Sweets for Valentines” on Sunday, February 6, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.

The event will be held at The Catskill Artists Gallery, 38 S. Main Street in Liberty.

Selections will feature the stories of Robert Fulghum, the author of All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, which dominated the New York Times Bestseller List for all of 1989 and much of 1990. Fulghum also wrote It Was On Fire When I Lay Down On It, Maybe (Maybe Not), and several other best-selling books. For 22 years Fulghum served as a Unitarian parish minister in the Pacific Northwest. During that time he also taught drawing, painting and philosophy at the Lakeside School in Seattle.

During intermission, while you’re enjoying a delectable selection of handmade sweets, why not browse The Catskill Artists Gallery’s wide selection of art, (always handmade with love), and select something for your Valentine.

Choose from wall art, wearable art and usable art, including sculptures by Robert Friedman; glass and jewelry by Cate Gundlah; pottery and jewelry by Kathy Jeffers; fiber art, jewelry and note cards by Buff McAllister; paintings, jewelry, books and note cards by Helena Clare Pittman; and photography, wood sculpture and postcards by Hank Schneider.

In addition you’ll find artwork by over 30 gallery consignors includes photography, pottery, collage pictures, paintings and prints, note cards, calendars, glass, pastels, encaustic, wood and sculpture in prices that range start at just $4.

When you give your sweetheart a handmade piece of art from the Catskill Artists Gallery, you also support the local economy with a gift that can’t be found at the local warehouse club or mall.

Admission to “Shorts and Sweets” is just $10.00 for an afternoon of delightful love stories and delicious desserts. (And we’ll get you home in time for the Super Bowl, too.)

For additional information, call Big Sky Productions at 845-985-7783, visit The Catskill Artists Gallery’s Facebook page or their website at www.catskillartistsgallery.com.

Captions for above photos: Carol Montana, Artistic Director – Big Sky Productions and Robert Friedman’s sculpture Triple Cross.

HASBROUCK, NY (January 22, 2011) – At the Old Stone House in Hasbrouck they’ve set up a big jar to collect pennies. It’s a symbolic gesture to let everybody know they need your help!

In recent years, the Old Stone House has grown into one of our area’s pre-eminent sites for high-quality art exhibits, community gatherings, social events, and art courses for kids of all ages.

Friends and neighbors have supported them with heartfelt contributions of both time and funding.

But, as you all realize every time you walk outside, this winter has been brutal…and it’s not over yet. That means, among other weather-related problems, their heating costs have soared. Even keeping this glorious historic structure at a modest 45-degrees has stretched their budget to the breaking point. And that’s after adding plastic panels to the windows…double-checking all the insulation…and making sure the doors all close tightly.

The Old Stone House is delighted to accept any and all pennies. But, dimes and dollars are even more appreciated. Their 501(c)3 tax-exempt application is still pending (those things seem to take ages), so a donation won’t qualify for a deduction, you might still be able to shake loose a little change — or, better yet, a check for whatever one can afford – to help them get through a tight spot.

Visit (www.oldstonehouse.catskill-life.com) for details on where to send your contribution. Or, if you just recalled that old coffee can full of pennies hidden beneath the staircase, call Sue Welch (845-436-7626) or Alana Sherman (845-436-0070) to work out an easy way to pass it along.

At the Old Stone House, they’re truly old-fashioned and still believe that every penny counts!

Contributions can be sent to: The Old Stone House, Concerned Citizens of Hasbrouck, PO Box 355, Woodbourne NY 12788.

MONTICELLO, NY (January 20, 2011) – Sullivan County Manager David Fanslau has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening through 11:00 a.m. Friday morning:

Fanslau said, “The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for moderate snow that will come into Sullivan County tonight. Snow will begin to move into the region Thursday night after 7:00 p.m., and will be the heaviest between midnight and 11:00 a.m Friday morning. The total accumulation is between four inches and six inches of snow, with more possible in higher elevations. 

“A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow, sleet, or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. The traveling public should be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving. Roadways will become slick as snow accumulates tonight.

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

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

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

“Residents and visitors are urged to visit the County website, www.co.sullivan.ny.us, for current news and information. Also, please keep checking the NWS Binghamton website for updates as well as local news outlets for local closings. The County government will open for normal business hours on Friday, weather permitting.”

JEFFERSONVILLE, NY (January 20, 2010) – Farm & Country, the newest locally-produced show to air on WJFF, provides a look at farm life throughout the Catskills, Northeast Pennsylvania and the Upper Delaware region, both from a farmer’s point of view and also from the perspective of the many full-time residents and weekenders who love our area’s rural amenities.

Farm & Country debuts at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 22 and will air for one-half hour every week at that time.

Segments will include News You Can Use (updates about meetings, deadlines and issues affecting the area), Fun Farm Animal of the Week (interviews with farm animals and the kids who love them), Farmers Almanac, the Garden Girl and cooking features. In addition, there will be special segments on cheese making, economic issues, and profiles of local farmers selling their products in New York City.

Hosted by John Nordstrom, contributors include Acadia, Spike Appel, John Bachman, Sonja Hedlund, Amy Miller, Adrianne Picciano, Beth Stevens, Adam Weinreich and Ed Zwirn.

“We’ll cover everyone and everything that makes living here so wonderful,” said Nordstrom, whose home near Hortonville, NY is notable for its plethora of goats, chickens, ducks and other animals.

“Farm & Country will include the creative efforts of a wide range of folks living in our area,” said Adam Weinreich, an F&C contributor who is also WJFF’s assistant station manager. “Everybody from farmers to 4H-ers to farmer wannabees should get a kick out of it.”

WJFF programs are found at 90.5 FM, 94.5 FM (W233AH) in Monticello and streaming on its website, www.WJFFradio.org.

HURLEYVILLE, NY (January 19, 2010) – Sullivan First group held its 14^TH annual “DECK THE DOORS” holiday decorating contest on December 16. The group toured every road in Hurleyville on the night of the contest and judged all holiday-decorated doors in the hamlet. Winners of the contest were awarded prizes furnished by Hurleyville business owners.

The winners were the Ciorciari Family, the DiPippo Family, the Dromazos Family, Ryan Forest, Dawn and Shawn McCarthy, the Seastrand Family, Leisha and E Snihura, and Paulette and Terrance Williams.

The winners were awarded prizes provided by The Arati Store, Chick’s Express, The Fix-It Shop, Frankie and Johnny’s Presents Nardi’s, izzy’s aunt, Jampond, QQL Enterprises, LLC and Lou Ann Rexford.

All Hurleyville residents are invited to join Hurleyville-Sullivan First. The group meets on the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 P.M. at the Hurleyville Firehouse.

For more information about Hurleyville-Sullivan First, please visit http://www.hurleyvilleny.com.

FERNDALE, NY – Starting a garden should be a fun and exciting activity, yet lots of elements must be considered to make the work easier and more long-lasting.  Sullivan Renaissance is hosting a seminar entitled “Gardening is FUNdamental” on Wednesday, February 2 at 7:00 p.m. at the CVI Building in Ferndale. 

Presented by gardening expert Mary Lewis, this seminar will help individuals and groups begin garden projects by providing a check list of the necessary elements that should be considered when designing and planning a garden.

Topics will include location, soil testing, soil amendments, layout, plant choice, plant arrangement and more.

Lewis has been a Sullivan Renaissance judge for the past nine years. She is founder and principal of Barncroft, a garden design firm; chair of Zone III 2008 Annual Meeting of the Garden Clubs of America; and past president of Orange and Dutchess Garden Club. Lewis is a graduate of Cornell University and studies botanical art and illustration at New York Botanical Garden.

Sullivan Renaissance places a strong emphasis on good design. In order to receive grants this year, all garden and landscaping projects will have to submit a garden design plan and plant list. 

Everyone is welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served. To register by January 31 or for more information, visit www.sullivanrenaissance.org or call 845-295-2445.

WINTER CONFERENCE

Individuals interested in Sullivan Renaissance should also mark their calendars to reserve Saturday, February 26 for the annual Winter Conference and Expo at the CVI Building. The keynote speaker will be tourism expert and lecturer Dr. Peter Tarlow.

Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program principally funded by the Gerry Foundation. 

(Photo by Carol Montana)

WASHINGTON, DC (January 13, 2011) – Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO), and Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) are leading a group of 46 House of Representatives members in support of public disclosure requirements for chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing on public lands. 

In a letter to U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, the group described the disclosure requirement as a "critical step forward in encouraging the oil and gas industry to be more transparent and responsibly address the potential implications of hydraulic fracturing on water supplies and public health." In November 2010, Salazar said the Department of the Interior, which has the authority to require disclosure on public lands, is considering such a rule.

"Communities across America have seen their water contaminated by the chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process," said Hinchey. "When big energy companies decide they want to drill on public lands, they should have to tell the public exactly what chemicals they’re pumping into the ground. We already know of several carcinogens and neurotoxins that are used in drilling process. If the industry had their way, we wouldn’t find out about the other chemicals being used until they show up in the water supply. The people have a right to know what is being done to their land and what risks that may carry."

“Oil and gas companies continue to assure us that their drilling projects are safe,” said DeGette, “but those same companies refuse to back up their assertions by disclosing the chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process. Without disclosure, authorities investigating incidents of concern to communities and residents are unable to prove one way or another the role hydraulic fracturing might have played in the contamination. Natural gas is an abundant and cleaner energy source that we need while incorporating more alternative energy sources into a comprehensive and strategic energy policy for the United States to execute going forward.  It is also our responsibility, however, to ensure that its extraction does not come at the expense of the health of local communities.” 

“For too long the Bush Administration let big oil dictate the rules and undercut basic safeguards,” said U.S. Rep. Polis. “I applaud Secretary Salazar’s common sense approach, restoring a much-needed balance in our energy policy. Wherever hydraulic fracturing occurs, public lands or off, we must ensure that the appropriate oversight is in place so we can tell if and when dangerous chemicals are being used, endangering water sources and the public’s health”

Onshore gas wells on Interior-managed lands account for 11 percent of the nation’s natural gas supply.  Hinchey, DeGette, and Polis introduced the Fracking Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals (FRAC) Act in the 111th Congress to require the disclosure of chemicals used on both public and private lands. The FRAC Act would also close a loophole created in the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which exempts fracking from regulation through the Safe Drinking Water Act.  Hinchey is also the author of the provision which led to the initiation of an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study on the risks posed to drinking water through the fracking process.

The text of the letter along with a list of co-signers can be read by clicking on this link.

WASHINGTON, DC (January 13, 2011) – American workers who build solar panels received a big boost last weekend as President Obama signed into law a provision authored by Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), which requires that any solar energy panels purchased by the Department of Defense through subcontracts are made in the U.S. 

The amendment was included as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011, which after months of delay was approved by both the House and Senate.

"As the Department of Defense purchases solar panels to address very serious energy security concerns at defense installations around the country, we must ensure that those purchases support American solar energy manufacturing jobs, including those here in New York, rather than Chinese and other competitors," Hinchey said. "There is no good reason a company in China should be building the solar equipment that our military will use when we have a strong, emerging solar manufacturing presence here in New York. Establishing real energy security at our defense installations is critical to our national security. This is a commonsense approach to ensuring that American manufacturing jobs are supported as the military makes key investments in renewable energy."

Hinchey’s amendment, which initially was added to the bill when the House first voted on the measure in May 2010, deals with the Buy American Act, which requires products purchased directly by the federal government to contain at least 50 percent of American content. 

The Hinchey amendment applies the Buy American Act to the procurement of solar panels purchased indirectly by the Pentagon through subcontracts such as Energy Savings Performance Contracts, land leases, and utility service contracts.

Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (January 10, 2011) – Eldred was a busy place in December. 

At a place called The Piazza located at the four corners in Eldred, there was a Santa’s Village, conceived by local resident Lou Monteleone. During the holiday season, the Piazza was home to Santa and Mrs. Claus, and occasionally Rudolph, Frosty and many of their friends.

In addition to the miniature buildings depicting Santa’s Home, Santa’s Workshop and Rudolph’s Barn, there were also three Trees of Giving. “I thought that this season we should focus on giving, and I figured there were a lot of people that could use some help,” said Monteleone.

The first Tree of Giving was dedicated to all the troops serving overseas. Visitors were encouraged to hang a special troop-snowman ornament or bring one of the their own.

A second tree was dedicated to all animal lovers, and Monteleone asked visitors to bring a gift for the animals: pet food, clothing, toys or gift certificates.

And the third tree, said Monteleone, was designated “to benefit the Sullivan County Food Pantry and all those that struggle to put food on the table.” Visitors were asked to bring a non-perishable food item.

“We had people from Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well as New York. It was amazing because everyday when I would go into work, I’d see a few more bags underneath the trees of giving, so it was like Christmas everyday.”

Monteleone described a Brownie Troop from Eldred. ”They had a bake sale at Santa’s Village and  raised around $140. They all went shopping for food – all the little girls had their own shopping carts in the store. And they delivered the food the following weekend, each little girl came with her own bags.”

So last Wednesday, January 5, Lou Monteleone and his wife June (at right in photo), delivered over 400 non-perishable food items to the Sullivan County Federation of the Homeless. Boxes of pasta, cereal and cake mixes, cans of vegetables, jars of tomato sauce and baby food, bottles of juice and even a frozen turkey were gratefully accepted by Soup Kitchen Program Coordinator Esther Tyler and Chef Luis Rodriguez (left in photo above).

Tyler runs the housing program and oversees the area. “This is fantastic,” she said. “Do you know how many people we’re going to be able to feed? Last year at this time, we had about 38,000 pantries out, this year up to the same time, 70,000 pantries.” She explained that each package of three complete meals is considered a “pantry.” “We’re open five days a week. On the weekend, we give people meals to carry them over through the days we’re not open. In each package is breakfast, lunch and dinner. And for each individual in their household. Each package is considered a pantry.”

Clearly overwhelmed by the generosity, Tyler (at right in photo) added, “If it weren’t for caring people such as this, we would not be able to do it.”

The Federation’s soup kitchen serves a Continental breakfast on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and a hot breakfast on Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 1:00 p.m.

In addition there is a food pantry every third and fourth Friday from noon to 1:00 p.m. and an emergency food pantry is available 24 Hours/7 days per week by calling 845-798-8774.

The Federation is always looking for volunteers.

MONTICELLO, NY (January 10, 2010) – The Board of Directors for the Partnership for Economic Development in Sullivan County (Partnership) has appointed Allan Scott as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He had been serving in the role on an interim basis since November.

Partnership Board Chairman Josh Sommers said, “The Board was unanimous in supporting Allan as our next CEO. His successful record of helping close deals with companies that consider Sullivan County made him the natural choice.”     

Mr. Scott will also continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the County of Sullivan Industrial Development Agency (IDA). 

Similar to the management structure of the IDA, the Partnership will recruit a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to assist Mr. Scott with day-to-day operations. In the case of the Partnership, the newly created position of COO will work with Mr. Scott on the development of corporate attraction and membership programs.

Chris Williams of SYDA Foundation presents John Halchak, Chairman of the Hurleyville Fire District Board, with a check for $10,000. From left to right, Fire Commissioners Jim Sullivan, John O’Neil, George Gibson, and Lee Feldman look on. – Provided photo

HURLEYVILLE, NY (January 11, 2010) – The SYDA Foundation recently donated $10,000 to the Hurleyville Fire District to help fund Hurleyville’s pump truck, which the district purchased new in 2007. This was the third annual donation of $10,000 given by the SYDA Foundation which, in 2008, committed to contributing $50,000 to this cause over a period of 5 years.

Chris Williams, SYDA Foundation Community Relations Manager, presented the check to Jack Halchak, Chairman of the Hurleyville Fire District Board. Halchak said: “The SYDA Foundation is a good neighbor. After helping to pay for the new Hurleyville firehouse, they’re now helping to fund this much needed state-of-the art machine.” SYDA has made total contributions of over $200,000 to the Hurleyville Fire District since 1993.

Mr. Williams expressed appreciation for the dedicated volunteer fire fighters who willingly and courageously step forward at any time of the day or night to protect the safety of the community residents. Williams also spoke about the Foundation’s on-going commitment to the local community’s health, safety, and education. He cited the PRASAD Children’s Dental Health Program that has provided dental care for nearly 60,000 children to date in Sullivan and Ulster counties.

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

KINGSTON, NY (January 9, 2011) – Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) yesterday released a statement regarding the shooting incident in Arizona that critically wounded several people, including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ), and killed several others.

“This is an incredibly sad day for our country. My thoughts and prayers go out to Congresswoman Giffords, her family, her staff, and all of the other victims of today’s shooting. While we know some lives have already been tragically lost, we are all praying for the other victims to make a full and speedy recovery.

“Acts of violence against any American are unacceptable and today’s events are even more tragic given the number of victims and that the incident occurred while a Member of Congress was listening to the concerns and needs of the people she represents. I am deeply saddened to see such a beautiful act of democracy destroyed by such a horrific act of violence.”

Story by Carol Montana, Photos by Kenneth Walter

MONTICELLO, NY (January 7, 2011) – Surrounded by family and friends, Sullivan County’s newest County Court and Surrogate Court Judge Mike McGuire was sworn in on Thursday, December 30, 2010 at the Lawrence Cooke Court House.

Given the oath of office by his predecessor, the Honorable Burton Ledina, McGuire paid homage to his parents, brother and sister, wife Corinne and their three children.

Also present at the ceremony were judges from around the county, region and state, several Sullivan County Legislators, the county clerk, treasurer, several court clerks and many other dignitaries and and friends.

Albee Bockman, owner of the Sullivan County-based MobileMedic, performed the National Anthem, following which, Family Court Judge Mark Meddaugh took the part of master of ceremonies.

“Being a judge is a lonely job,” Meddaugh told McGuire. “You sit at the bench and all the eyes are fixed on you and you have the ultimate responsibility to make a decision that may affect those litigants for years to come. You are at the beginning of this process, Michael. And every day you will learn something new and you will gain the confidence to render the best decisions that you can for the people that will now be relying on you. I am confident that you have the ability to be a fine judge and I certainly look forward to having you as a member of the judiciary.”

New York State Senator John Bonacic’s comments were short and sweet. “Mike, this is a happy day, you can smile. I always knew you had the right stuff. We know you’re intelligent, we know you’re experienced. But the two ingredients that I think will make you an outstanding judge is your temperament and I know you will treat everyone fairly and equally regardless of their color, regardless of whether they’re rich or poor.”

In her comments, Sullivan County Legislator Jody Goodman referred to what was often a bitter and divisive campaign for election. “… but I hope that you look back at the past year as one of the brightest moments of your life because you were surrounded with such friendship … “

Recently retired, Judge Anthony Kane told McGuire, “We, the citizens of Sullivan County, have great expectations for you … but remember that all who come before you, come with the expectation of being treated fairly and with dignity. This is not Judge Judy. If you work hard, as I know you will, and meet those expectations, you will take your place among the great jurors who have toiled in this courtroom.”

It is tradition for the president of the Sullivan County Bar Association to present the new judge with his/her robes, so Sam Yasgur, assisted by McGuire’s mother and wife, help the new judge don his new robes.  Yasgur also had some advice for the new judge. “ … to each litigant and each party, (their) case is unique, it is often the most important thing in his or her life. And one of the most important things that the person standing before the bench can know that they’re going to be heard by someone who is not only going to hear, but also going to listen to what they have to say. …You’re the one who gets to make the decision. … The decision is something that you make alone. … and in years to come, you will earn not only the title of but the appellation of ‘your honor’ from all of us.”

And then the podium was taken by the retiring Judge Burton Ledina. “I can’t tell you how happy I am to have you succeed to the Sullivan County Court bench,” he told McGuire. “You will learn in the years to come, why we judges say this is the best job in the world.” Ledina said he was honored to be the judge who administered McGuire his oath of office.

After the “official” oath was signed by Sullivan County Clerk Danny Briggs, it was McGuire’s turn to address the assembled crowd. He acknowledged the other judges both past and present. And then turned to a question he said many people are interested in. “What type of judge will I be. … The answer to that question is not found in a review of my work over the past 10 years. But rather in the experiences I’ve had in the past 50 years, and based on those experiences, I can assure you of one thing. Each day when I don these robes, I’ll be guided by the law and I’ll work diligently that every individual in my courtroom is treated fairly under the law and treated with dignity.”

The new judge spoke of his parents and the close and “spirited” relationship he has with his siblings. He thanked his law professor and his mentor, former Sullivan County District Attorney Steve Lungen. McGuire gave enthusiastic praise to his campaign staff and to his predecessor. “I look forward with great enthusiasm to building on the outstanding body of work and the legacy of fair, balanced and impartial justice that Judge Ledina leaves behind. Judge Ledina, you’ve set the bar very high, and I can only promise to work every day to build upon your legacy. It has been truly my honor and my good fortune to have practiced before you and I wish you many years of good health and happiness in your retirement.”

Then McGuire turned to his three sons, Kevin, William and Carl and told them, “I’m so proud of each of you for what you’ve been able to accomplish in your lives and for the values that you’ve exhibited. Without question you are my shining stars and you motivate me in everything I do.”

“Finally,” said McGuire, “I turn to my strength, my soul mate, my best friend, my wife Corinne. … For the past 15 years you have been the constant in my life. … There was never a doubt in my mind that together we would move mountains. I love you with all my life. To the rest of those who are here, this occasion today is a celebration of everything that you have given to me throughout my life … Thank you for your support and your friendship.”

WASHINGTON, DC (January 5, 2011) – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand appeared on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart Tuesday night, where she thanked Jon Stewart for his efforts to raise awareness and help pass the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
Before the show, Senator Gillibrand presented Stewart with an American flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on December 22, 2010, the day the 9/11 health bill passed, and a jacket from the FealGood Foundation, a leading advocacy group for 9/11 first responders.

WATCH Senator Gillibrand on the Daily Show discuss the passage of health care for 9/11 heroes, the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” along with the first overhaul of America’s food safety laws in nearly a century, banning drop-side cribs to save infant lives, and more.

Compiled by Carol Montana

NEW YORK STATE, (December 29, 2010) – New York State motorists are now required by law to move over and slow down when encountering emergency vehicles on New York’s roads and highways.

The “Ambrose-Searles Move Over Act” was signed into law during the summer, and took effect on January 1, 2011.

The act is named in honor of New York State Trooper Robert W. Ambrose (photo left) and Onondaga County Sheriff Deputy Glenn M. Searles (photo right), who were both killed in the line of duty while their patrol vehicles were stopped on the side of the road, and to honor others who have tragically lost their lives on the highways while serving the public.

“This law will work to safeguard the emergency personnel who protect us day and night as we travel. The ‘Ambrose-Searles Act’ is a common-sense approach that will work to prevent avoidable collisions with emergency personnel …,” said former NY Governor David Paterson. 

The “Move Over Act” requires drivers to reduce speed on all New York State roads or highways when encountering an authorized emergency vehicle which is parked, stopped or standing on the shoulder with its emergency lights activated.

Further provisions require drivers on parkways, interstates and other controlled-access highways with multiple lanes, to move from the lane immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle, unless traffic or other hazards prevent them from doing so safely.

Since 1999, more than 160 law-enforcement officers have been struck and killed by vehicles while performing police duties along America’s highways. “Move Over” laws have been enacted in most states nationwide in order to prevent these tragedies.

Locally, Trooper Nathaniel Burroughs (photo left) was killed on a dangerous stretch of Route 17 in Wurtsboro on February 14, 1997. The 30-year-old State Trooper was struck by a car that had been hit by a tractor trailer.

A violation of the “Ambrose-Searles Move Over Act” is punishable by a fine of up to $275, plus mandatory court surcharges. It will also result in two points on the driver’s license record.

The stats helper monkeys at WordPress.com mulled over how this blog did in 2010, and here’s a high level summary of its overall blog health:

The Blog-Health-o-Meter™ reads Wow.

Crunchy numbers

The Louvre Museum has 8.5 million visitors per year. This blog was viewed about 90,000 times in 2010. If it were an exhibit at The Louvre Museum, it would take 4 days for that many people to see it.

In 2010, there were 414 new posts, growing the total archive of this blog to 619 posts.

The busiest day of the year was October 1st with 835 views. The most popular post that day was Under Our Windows – Flood at 7 a.m..

Where did they come from?

The top referring sites in 2010 were facebook.com, sg.yfittopostblog.com, mail.yahoo.com, watershedpost.com, and mail.live.com.

Some visitors came searching, mostly for catskill chronicle, katie rudy occ, the catskill chronicle, katie rudy, and ariana sepulveda.

Attractions in 2010

These are the posts and pages that got the most views in 2010.

Under Our Windows – Flood at 7 a.m. October 2010

About/Contact Us May 2009
15 comments

Livingston Manor Hit Again by Flooding July 2009
1 comment

Tales from the Scrawny Gourmet September 2009
7 comments

Sensational “Singin’ in the Rain” at Forestburgh Playhouse July 2010

Some of your most popular posts were written before 2010. Your writing has staying power!

MONTICELLO, NY (December 31, 2010) – Legislature Chairman Jonathan F. Rouis announced that the Sullivan County Legislature adopted a resolution at its final meeting of 2010 that implores the New York State Legislature to enact substantive reform of the real property tax law section governing tax exempt criteria.

“During each of the informational meetings on the County Budget that were held in seven locations throughout Sullivan County, a recurring compliant about New York’s public policy centered on the need to reform tax exempt criteria,” said Rouis. “The current tax exemption criteria has nearly 20% of all real property parcels exempt from taxation, leaving 80% of the property owners to essentially pay 100% of the property tax burden,” added Rouis.

Sullivan County has about $11.05 billion of equalized value real property assessments. However, more than $2.17 billion is exempt from real property taxation. If all non-governmental properties were subject to the real property tax, there would be an additional $6.46 million realized at the 2011 County tax rate. If all non-governmental tax exempt real property were presently subject to real property taxation there could be a net reduction of the property tax by 13.25% or there would be no appropriation of Fund Balance or a greatly reduced appropriation of Fund Balance.

“There must be an ability authorized enacted by the New York State Legislature to provide County Governments the ability to realize revenues from the impacts of providing County Government services associated with improvements on tax exempt properties, so that the eighty percent (80%) of the balance of taxable real property owners do not have to shoulder the burden of one hundred percent (100%) of the property tax levy,” concluded Rouis.

HARRIS, NY (December 29, 2010) – Catskill Regional Medical Center’s (CRMC) Cancer Support Group, in conjunction with the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, will host the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good, Feel Better” program from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 in Boardroom A at CRMC’s main Harris campus.

Ms. Patricia Morris, owner and operator of Fantasy Hair in Wurtsboro, N.Y., will present the program, which helps cancer patients fight the side effects of chemotherapy by enhancing their appearance through the use of makeup, turbans and other accessories.

Pre-registration is required and participants should bring a hand mirror. To register, or for more information about the cancer support group, please contact 845-794-3300 ext. 2831. Cosmetologists who want information about certification classes should call 1-800-395-5665 (LOOK).

A member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, Catskill Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality health care to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, visit www.crmcny.org.