Home in the Country Spring 2015

home c ou n t r y

A Sullivan County Democrat publication April, 2015

in the

HOME IN THE COUNTRY

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

APRIL, 2015

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Recent Home Sales 1.

Thompson Township Cape Cod Built: 1940 Listed By: Elliott & Pomeroy Real Estate

3.

Bethel Township Raised Ranch 3 BR/1 BA Acres: 0.40 Sold For: $85,700 School Tax: $1,687 Town & County: $1,368

Built: 1965 Listed By: Preferred Homes & Properties

3 BR/2 BA Acres: 1.98 Sold For: $119,000 School Tax: $2,072

SCHMIDT’S WHOLESALE, INC.

The Celesta Collection from RODA

Town & County: $1,630 Built: 1950 Listed By: Hudson Valley Realty

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!

6.

Callicoon Township Log Cabin Built: 1971 Listed By: Catskill Country Real Estate

3 BR/1 BA Acres: 7.51 Sold For: $210,000 School Tax: $3,153 Town & County: $3,451

Built: 2007 Listed By: Matthew J. Freda Real Estate

Full-time consultant on staff ready to provide you with guidance ideas and knowledge for your next remodel.

8.

Highland Township Custom 2 Story

7.

Forestburgh Township 2 Story 3 BR/2 BA Acres: 1.97 Sold For: $333,750 School Tax: $4,185 Town & County: $3,228

Built: 1900 Listed By: Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Peters Realty

4.

Fallsburg Township Cape Cod

5.

Liberty Township Contemporary Ranch 4 BR/3 BA Acres: 10.41 Sold For: $134,750 School Tax: $5,428 Town & County: $3,637

2 BR/1 BA Acres: 0.3 Sold For: $42,000 School Tax: $1,887 Town & County: $2,345

Built: 1898 Listed By: McKean Real Estate, Inc.

3 BR/2 1/2 BA Acres: 5.72 Sold For: $412,000 School Tax: $4,760 Town & County: $4,320

Built: 2008 Listed By: Gibson E. McKean, Inc.

These listings compliments of the Sullivan County Board of Realtors

150 Jefferson Street, P.O. Box 5100 Monticello, NY 12701-5100

CALL TODAY: (845) 794-5900

23267

3 BR/2 BA Acres: 0.42 Sold For: $15,000 School Tax: $2,000 Town & County: $4,058

2.

Liberty Township Cottage

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

APRIL, 2015A

Gutter cleaning tips from a professional

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f you hadn’t cleaned out your gutters before winter set in, then put gutter cleaning on your to-do list this spring.

“At its best, gutter cleaning is a tedious and disgusting task. At worst, it can be scary and downright dangerous. One slight misstep and you are heading to the hospital with a broken bone and bruised ego,” says gutter cleaning expert Robert Lenney.

Ladder Safety: Always let someone know you will be using a ladder to work on your roof or gutters. Use a safe and sturdy ladder, preferably with a small shelf strong enough to hold a five-gallon bucket to collect gutter debris. Make sure to secure the bucket with a lanyard.

We recommend a four-legged step ladder for a single story home, and an extension ladder for a two-story home.

An orchard ladder is not recommended because there are only three legs for support and they can become unbalanced.

A wooden ladder is also not recom-

mended because they are often wobbly and difficult to safely balance.

Fiberglass ladders seem to be the sturdiest, but are also the heaviest. If you are cleaning gutters for hours upon hours, muscle fatigue can set in from moving the heavy ladder numerous times. If this is the case, you should try using an aluminum ladder, which is the second-choice option for strength and support.

Inspect the ladder for defects, dents or loose parts before climbing. If your ladder is fastened together with screws and bolts, make sure all parts are tightened.

When opening up a step ladder, make sure the extension-hinge arms are fully extended and locked in place.

Before climbing the ladder, lightly jump on the first rung a few times to make sure the ground is secure.

Sometimes the soil is soft, or there might be a hole underneath one of the ladder legs. Either condition could cause the ladder to collapse with the combined weight of the ladder and a

person. A piece of half-inch plywood can be placed under the ladder legs to keep it level and steady.

When climbing the ladder, always remember the “Three Point Rule.” As much as possible try to have both legs

and one hand firmly secure on the ladder at all times to provide stability and balance while cleaning. Conversely, do not lean out from the ladder balancing on one leg while using two hands to clean debris from the gutter.

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Top 10 Tips

Advice and safety tips that just might save your life

Oftentimes, it is this stretching and reaching for that last scoop of debris that lands a person in the hospital.

Lastly, if at all possible, have someone hold the ladder to provide additional safety while climbing.

Spraying out the gutter is generally best when most of the larger debris has already been removed. It’s difficult to spray out leaves and pine needles that have piled up over the previous summer and fall. Spray toward the downspout (leader pipe) so the small, murky debris flows down the downspout. If the downspout is connected to an underground drain that goes out to your street, the base of the downspout needs to be disconnected so the debris can be released at this point, preventing a potential clog further down the system under your lawn or driveway.

Gutter Scoop: Scooping out the leafy debris seems to be the best overall method for cleaning out the gutter. An excellent tool for this job is the bright orange plastic “Gutter Getter” scoop, which can be purchased at most hard-

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ware stores. This tool is unique because the front scooping edge is very thin and it forms itself to the bottom of the gutter trough, making it easy to scoop out even the toughest of debris in any size gutter system.

Stay away from using a metal scooping tool because the bottom of the gutter and seams can be damaged.

Scraping the bottom of a steel gutter can introduce areas to rust, and if the bottom of the gutter is already rusting, the rusting process could speed up.

Using a metal scooping tool can also damage seams in the gutter because the motion of scraping out the bottom of a gutter with a metal tool can damage the caulking that seals two ends of a gutter together (called a seam).

An extension pole can also be attached to the gutter scoop for reaching farther to clean the gutter, reducing ladder moves.

Wear Gloves: Gloves can help protect hands against dirty, rotting leaf debris that often contains bird, pigeon and squirrel droppings that are ridden with

1. Always let someone know you are cleaning your gutters.

2. Use a ladder with a shelf and a plywood platform for stabilization.

3. Clean off roof first.

4. Wear rubber-soled shoes or Korkers (shoes with grip spikes) when walking on roof.

5. Use a small plastic spade or gutter scoop.

6. Use gloves and proper eyewear.

7. Unclog downspouts with a garden hose that has an adjustable spray.

8. Install a downspout chain to eliminate annoying rain dripping sounds.

9. Watch out for hazardous power lines.

10. Clean gutters twice a year. bacteria. Gloves can also prevent painful cuts from the torn metal shards of an old, ragged gutter. Cotton gloves can soak up dirty water that exposes skin to bacteria. Leather gloves are not as maneuverable and tend to shrivel up when they dry after cleaning. Rubber gloves can get poked or torn by metal shards in the gutter. Thick, suede glove material is recommended because it is superior to cotton, thin leather or rubber gloves.

Protective Eye Wear: Eye protection is a must because one never knows what might fly out of the downspout when cleaning gutters. People have experienced rats, birds, frogs, wasps and bees leaving at high speeds once they start removing a clog, and the last thing

they want to have happen is an eye injury.

Rake Off Roof: Rake all debris off the roof first. Otherwise, the next rain will wash all the debris down into the clean gutter, clogging it up again. Also, debris left on the roof can lead to water damming up in valleys or around the chimney, which can cause erosion and roof leaks over time.

Rubber Shoes: If walking on the roof is necessary to perform gutter cleaning, it is good to use rubber soled shoes.

Rubber soles tend to adhere best and prevent slipping and falls. Roof tops tend to be moist in the morning, so it is best to walk on the roof after the sun is CONTINUED ON PAGE 6H

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well up in the sky and has dried up all the moisture. Late mornings or early afternoons are the best times to walk on a roof.

Downspouts Unclogged: Make sure the downspouts (leader pipe) are clear.

After all the gutters are cleaned out, run

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

the water hose down the downspout at full pressure. If the water backs up out of the top, a clog is present. Normally, it can be unclogged by tapping on the side of the downspout. But if that doesn’t work, the downspout and back need to be removed, and it should be flushed from the bottom. If a clog is present, and the downspout is connected to an underground drain, it is best to disconnect the bottom of the downspout from the underground drain. Otherwise, the clog may move to the underground drain.

Clean Gutters Two Times A Year: Make sure gutters are cleaned at least twice a year, once in the fall and again in the spring. One main reason for cleaning out gutters is to eliminate the possibility of water damage from rainwater runoff due to a clogged gutter.

Another reason is to reduce the possibility of rust corrosion. Even though it may not rain during the summer, if there is debris in the steel gutters, the rusting process can speed up. It’s difficult for rust to speed up with clean gutters. The faster the rusting process, the sooner new gutters will be needed.

Power Line Hazard: When cleaning

APRIL, 2015

gutters around a power line cable that drops from the power pole to the roof of a home, conduct a visual inspection of the electrical cable where it connects to the roof. This is to ensure that the protective wire insulation hasn’t rubbed off through years of wear-and-tear by weather and nearby trees. If the cable appears to have damage, do not attempt to repair it. Call a licensed professional electrical contractor to fix it.

If it’s raining and there is an electrical wire problem, do not attempt to clean out the gutters until the wires are fixed.

Water is a dangerous conductor of electricity. Whether it’s raining or not, it would be a good idea to have the electrical wiring repaired before cleaning out your gutters.

It is not advisable to use a metal ladder near power lines when cleaning out your gutters. A fiberglass ladder is a better safety solution in this situation.

Gutter Guards: Using a quality gutter guard can eliminate the need for cleaning out gutters. Consider carefully the manufacturer’s claims before purchasing a gutter protection system that keeps out leaves and pine needles, because many promises are made that

can’t be delivered. Lenney has invented the popular micro mesh gutter guards LeafBlaster and Gutterglove. Both gutter covers keep out leaves, pine needles and roof sand grit from your gutters.

More information can be found at www.LeafBlaster.com or www.Gutterglove.com.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

APRIL, 2015

Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties:

Now you can tour their listings in 3D

oldwell Banker Timberland The real estate veteran said there are tomers to view homes. They can get a Properties, the region’s a number of factors that help set his completely realistic feel for a property largest real estate company, and then make informed decisions to company apart. is introducing 3D online “I’m proud to say that we have the determine if they’d like to take addihome tours as part of its ongoing commost experienced agents, with an avertional steps towards making a purmitment as a marketing and technoloage of more than 15 years in the field,” chase,” he explained. gy leader.

Mr. Wedemeyer pointed out.

The move to 3D technology to showThe 3D home tours, which are being Selling is the goal case some of its premier properties is offered as part of Timberland “With us, the emphasis is not on the another means by which Coldwell Properties’ Catskillpremier.com webBanker Timberland Properties works to agents’ commissions, but it’s about sellsite, provide customers with an unparing properties and benefitting our maintain its status as the number one alleled online shopping experience. clients. We’re a client-based company real estate company in the Catskill The state-of-the-art technology gives and it’s good for buyers, sellers and our Region. Since its founding, Timberland viewers the opportunity to chart their own online course, getting a detailed layout of properties and zooming in to view even small details of the homes.

Company President Eric Wedemeyer unveiled the new technology at the Timberland Properties quarterly sales meeting held in February at the Zephyr restaurant in Pine Hill.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO He explained A new dimension – This image from the CatskillPremier website illustrates the new 3D technology that adding 3D now being utilized by Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties. capabilities is dedicated staff. Individual agents canProperties has sold more than $850 another example of the Timberland not come close to providing the type of million in properties.

Properties’ dedication to keeping pace advertising and marketing impact that Mr. Wedemeyer said he’s proud to with the demands of today’s savvy real our company provides,” he added. have guided the company’s growth. estate customers.

Driving that success is a continued Along with its main office in A different world commitment to strong promotion, utiMargaretville, Timberland Properties “Today’s real estate world is vastly lizing the strength of the Coldwell also has offices in Delhi, Stamford and changed from when I started the comBanker brand as well as a local team of Boiceville. The latter, opened on Route pany in 1971. Our success has been the marketing, graphics and photographic ability to incorporate the latest technol- 28 two years ago, has already experienced tremendous growth in the Ulster specialists who ensure that properties ogy as part of our mission to consisare expertly advertised.

County real estate market. In addition, tently meet buyers’ needs. In doing so, Another recent innovation at the the size of the Delhi office has been we are naturally benefitting our sellers, company is the implementation of a doubled in the past year and new as well,” Mr. Wedemeyer commented. phone system that simultaneously agents are being added to help service “By utilizing this 3D technology, we sends emails to agents so they can give that market area. are providing another means for cus-

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instantaneous responses to property inquiries.

“Clients don’t want to wait and we want to make certain that our agents are fully responsive,” Mr. Wedemeyer emphasized. “This contemporary phone system is another aspect of our marketing that makes us stand out.”

Global reach The Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties president also points to that fact that his company is the only agency in the region that offers a dedicated luxury site (CatskillPremier.com) in addition to its main online presence at TimberlandProperties.com. The Coldwell Banker parent company’s marketing reach is another avenue through which the agency’s local listings receive prominent exposure on numerous domestic and international sites.

“We truly have the global reach that is vital in today’s real estate environment. Our efforts are reinforced by the Coldwell Banker national brand, which, in my opinion, is the best national franchise,” Mr. Wedemeyer stated.

As Timberland Properties has expanded, so has the number of agents on staff. Mr. Wedemeyer said he’s careful to hire only the appropriate number agents needed to adequately serve clients’ needs. He proudly noted that, despite the last recession, the Timberland Properties business model allowed agents to maintain their livelihood while many other companies saw large-scale layoffs.

“Our agents all work very hard and they are dedicated to their profession.

It’s their expertise and diligence that make us the Catskill Region’s real estate leader,” Mr. Wedemeyer proudly stated.

For additional information, contact any of the Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties offices: Margaretville at 845586-3321, Delhi 607-746-7400, Stamford 607-652-2220 or Boiceville 845-657-4177.

Visit TimberlandProperties.com or CatskillPremier.com

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

APRIL, 2015

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Serving all of Sullivan County when buying or selling a quality home or property.

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The home of your dreams is now available STORY BY DAN HUST, PHOTOS BY CHRIS RAMIREZ

llen and Stephen Tucker had their pick of places to live.

Both accomplished professionals in the New York metropolitan region, the couple chose The Chapin Estate near White Lake for a variety of reasons, including fond memories of youthful summers in the Catskills.

But you don’t have to have a life’s worth of local recollections to feel like this is simply the perfect place to live.

“It’s such a lovely community with lovely people,” says Ellen, who is one of The Chapin Estate’s most involved residents, helping run the Lake Club, a gathering, dining and fitness center exclusively open to Chapin members.

The Tuckers’ home, Sunset Lodge, is as gracious as they, its blend of wood and stone gazing

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majestically from a hill above the Toronto Reservoir.

“It has a beautiful, unobstructed view of the lake,” Ellen shares. “And the lake is gorgeous.”

Indeed, this 6.46-acre spot was chosen by Ellen and Stephen a decade ago for its combination of inspiring vista and serene privacy.

As one of the first to purchase a lot at Chapin, they secured the construction and design services of Chapin founder Steve Dubrovsky and crew, and a lodge worthy of the Adirondacks was born in the Catskills.

White pine abounds throughout the three spacious levels of Sunset Lodge, sometimes appearing to naturally sprout from floors and walls.

Carvings in that wood by master artisan Paul Stark conjure images of wildlife – from a woodpecker drilling for a meal to a sunflower bursting into bloom.

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HOME FEATURES Address: 36 Top Ridge Trl Municipality: Bethel Bedrooms: 5 Full baths: 6 Partial baths: 1 Interior footage: 5,250 Acres: 6.46 Year Built: 2005 Garage capacity: 2 Type: Single Family Community: Gated Community, Spa / Pool Above: Carved by Paul Stark, this woodpecker happens to be made of the same white pine on which it’s left its mark! It adorns the bar pictured on 12H.

Amenities: Carpeted and Hardwood Floors, Deck, Dishwasher,

Left: As seen from the path leading to a dock on Toronto Reservoir, Sunset Lodge is a stunning, yet inviting retreat fashioned of wood and stone.

Below: The master bedroom features a fully operational wood/gas fireplace, native hardwood flooring and a gorgeous view of much of the reservoir.

Granite Countertops, Patio, Refrigerator, Security System, Spa / Hot Tub, Storage, Dock, Wine Cellar, Grotto, Washer Included, Dryer Included, 3 Fireplaces Cooling: Ceiling Fan, Central Air Conditioning Land Features: Exercise Area, Lake, Mountain Views, Water View, Waterfront, Guard Gated, Jogging / Biking Path MLS ID.: TR2-25 Price: $2,700,000 Annual Taxes: $35,672

Above: Intricately-detailed carvings, like this pine cone (inset), grace many a banister and column inside Sunset Lodge, while the spacious kitchen is a perfect meld of wood, granite and stainless steel.

Right: The den’s bar offers space for drinks and guests – including a permanent one (see closeup, 13H)!

ON THE COVER: Note the detail that went into one of Sunset Lodge’s upstairs bedrooms: from the light fixtures to a window seat.

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

APRIL, 2015

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SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

HOME IN THE COUNTRY

The home of your dreams is now available STORY BY DAN HUST, PHOTOS BY CHRIS RAMIREZ

llen and Stephen Tucker had their pick of places to live.

Both accomplished professionals in the New York metropolitan region, the couple chose The Chapin Estate near White Lake for a variety of reasons, including fond memories of youthful summers in the Catskills.

But you don’t have to have a life’s worth of local recollections to feel like this is simply the perfect place to live.

“It’s such a lovely community with lovely people,” says Ellen, who is one of The Chapin Estate’s most involved residents, helping run the Lake Club, a gathering, dining and fitness center exclusively open to Chapin members.

The Tuckers’ home, Sunset Lodge, is as gracious as they, its blend of wood and stone gazing

E

majestically from a hill above the Toronto Reservoir.

“It has a beautiful, unobstructed view of the lake,” Ellen shares. “And the lake is gorgeous.”

Indeed, this 6.46-acre spot was chosen by Ellen and Stephen a decade ago for its combination of inspiring vista and serene privacy.

As one of the first to purchase a lot at Chapin, they secured the construction and design services of Chapin founder Steve Dubrovsky and crew, and a lodge worthy of the Adirondacks was born in the Catskills.

White pine abounds throughout the three spacious levels of Sunset Lodge, sometimes appearing to naturally sprout from floors and walls.

Carvings in that wood by master artisan Paul Stark conjure images of wildlife – from a woodpecker drilling for a meal to a sunflower bursting into bloom.

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HOME FEATURES Address: 36 Top Ridge Trl Municipality: Bethel Bedrooms: 5 Full baths: 6 Partial baths: 1 Interior footage: 5,250 Acres: 6.46 Year Built: 2005 Garage capacity: 2 Type: Single Family Community: Gated Community, Spa / Pool Above: Carved by Paul Stark, this woodpecker happens to be made of the same white pine on which it’s left its mark! It adorns the bar pictured on 12H.

Amenities: Carpeted and Hardwood Floors, Deck, Dishwasher,

Left: As seen from the path leading to a dock on Toronto Reservoir, Sunset Lodge is a stunning, yet inviting retreat fashioned of wood and stone.

Below: The master bedroom features a fully operational wood/gas fireplace, native hardwood flooring and a gorgeous view of much of the reservoir.

Granite Countertops, Patio, Refrigerator, Security System, Spa / Hot Tub, Storage, Dock, Wine Cellar, Grotto, Washer Included, Dryer Included, 3 Fireplaces Cooling: Ceiling Fan, Central Air Conditioning Land Features: Exercise Area, Lake, Mountain Views, Water View, Waterfront, Guard Gated, Jogging / Biking Path MLS ID.: TR2-25 Price: $2,700,000 Annual Taxes: $35,672

Above: Intricately-detailed carvings, like this pine cone (inset), grace many a banister and column inside Sunset Lodge, while the spacious kitchen is a perfect meld of wood, granite and stainless steel.

Right: The den’s bar offers space for drinks and guests – including a permanent one (see closeup, 13H)!

ON THE COVER: Note the detail that went into one of Sunset Lodge’s upstairs bedrooms: from the light fixtures to a window seat.

HOME IN THE COUNTRY

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Smart landscaping can save energy

S

EEDS (Sustainable Energy Education and Development Support) and the Northeast Pennsylvania Audubon Society are co-sponsoring a free seminar titled: “Smart Landscaping: How Landscaping Can Save Energy” on Tuesday, April 21 from 7–9 p.m. at the Wayne County Conservation District office, located in the Park Street Complex – 648 Park Street in Honesdale (near the Wayne Memorial Hospital).

This is a free seminar that will teach participants about permaculture, healthy backyard habitats, and simple landscaping techniques for energy savings.

Participants will learn how to plant for optimal heating and cooling needs, what types of trees to plant and where. Presenters will

also discuss native versus nonnative plant species, and how buying plants and materials from local sources decreases energy needed for transport.

Presenters include Jason Curtis, PLA, LEED AP, Land Scape Artist; Katharine Dodge, Chair of SEEDS and member of the Northeast Pennsylvania Audubon Society; Robert Muller, Manager of the Wayne Conservation District.

Registration is encouraged, but not required.

Email jocelyn@seedsgroup.net or call SEEDS at 570-245-1256.

SEEDS is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable energy and living in Northeast Pa. It works with businesses and residents to reduce energy use, improve energy efficiency and grow the renewable energy infrastructure. For a full list of its forums and other programs, visit www.seedsgroup.net.

“It looks like nature was brought inside,” explains Christine SweetmanVande Vrede, who with Eileen Mullally is representing the Tuckers in the sale of this magnificent home.

Regally reaching to the 20-foot ceilings, three stone fireplaces can be heated by gas or wood, while the finished basement’s floor features the barefoot comfort of radiant heat. The entirety of Sunset Lodge is centrally heated by oil and cooled by electricity.

Five bedrooms are served by six-anda-half baths, each with unique, highquality tiling, fixtures and furnishings.

Common areas are just as plentiful, with an airy dining room, spacious kitchen, cathedral-ceiling living room and cozy den beckoning family and guests. A fully-outfitted bar accompanies the den and is itself complemented by a wine cellar, just steps away.

The house was designed for rest and relaxation, but there’s room for working – and working out. An upstairs

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office is equipped with high-speed broadband cable access and features a three-sided view of the lake, the land and the two-car garage.

“From every window in each of the main rooms,” Christine points out, “you have a view of the water.”

Two levels beneath the office sits both an intimate library and a mirrored fitness room, with a door leading to the neighboring sauna.

After an active day, however, there’s nothing better than finding a seat on the wraparound porch or in the hot tub of the ground-level patio to drink in the sights, sounds and smells of a forest gloriously lit by the sun setting across the Toronto.

Or perhaps you’d like to watch the sunset from the lake itself? Walk a few yards down to the dock, then take your boat out on this 900-acre reservoir, part of 2,000 acres of boating, swimming and fishing lakes in the vicinity – themselves surrounded by 14,000 acres of “forever wild” conservation lands.

Listed for $2.7 million, Sunset Lodge

Design & Installation of Unique Landscapes for Home & Business

• English & Japanese Gardens • Rock Gardens & Flower Beds

•845-583-5760 •

26438

• Organic Gardening Methods • Stone walls, Patios & Paths • Trees & Flowering Shrubs • Pool Landscapes • Water Gardens & Waterfalls

Each of the six and a half baths is unique in both design and furnishing. The master bath features rich, warm tones and comes with a relaxing jacuzzi bathtub.

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is truly one of the choicest of the choice homes available within the gates of The Chapin Estate.

So why would anyone want to move away?

Turns out Ellen and Stephen aren’t leaving – in fact, they plan to stay within Chapin, albeit at a smaller home.

“We love being in a warm, quiet environment, and we love entertaining family there,” Ellen affirms.

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the Forestburgh Playhouse and fine restaurants are also star attractions within a short drive.

Of course, they’ll miss Sunset Lodge, especially the white pine tree around which the main staircase wraps. Their initials, embraced by the shape of a heart, are carved into its smooth lines.

“Perhaps,” muses Ellen, smiling, “somebody else will put there initials there, as well ...” *** To find out more, visit chapinsothebysrealty.com or contact Christine or Eileen directly at 866-583-4900.

Above: The view from the wraparound porch is beautiful any time of year, but winter’s leafless presence affords the longest vistas of Toronto Reservoir.

Above left: Paul Stark’s remarkable carvings adorn the mantel above the living room’s regal stone fireplace.

Below left: A stainless steel gas-fired stove sits beneath a series of mesmerizing tiles depicting local wildlife.

Far left: A breathtaking crystal chandelier greets visitors to the bath off one of the guestrooms at Sunset Lodge.

HOME IN THE COUNTRY

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Rural home ownership within your reach USDA offers no down payment options/repair loans

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he United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced that funds are available to help rural residents of New York buy or repair single family homes.

“Expanding and preserving homeownership is a major part of the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous rural New York,” said Scott Collins, USDA Rural Development New York acting state director. “There is tremendous potential for New York and these funds will contribute towards building safe communities that people can call home.”

Funding is available through two Rural Development housing programs; the Home Repair program and the Guaranteed and Direct Loan program. The

Guaranteed Loan program assists lenders extend mortgages with affordable terms to low and moderate income homebuyers. Rural Development guarantees the loan, thereby reducing the lender’s risk and enabling them to provide financing at more favorable rates and terms to families wishing to purchase a home. Guaranteed loans can be made on either a new or existing home for up to one-hundred percent of the appraised value.

Under the Direct loan program, applicants apply directly to USDA for loan assistance. No down payment is

required and applicants may be eligible for payment assistance, which subsidizes the interest portion of the mortgage, lowering the overall monthly payment.

The Home Repair program offers verylow income homeowners loans and grants to make general home repairs or modifications, which may improve or modernize a home. The interest rate on these loans is one percent and the maximum term is 20 years. Applicants may obtain multiple loans, with a maximum outstanding loan amount at a given time of $20,000. Grants are available to

very-low income homeowners age 62 or older who cannot afford a loan. Grants are limited to a lifetime assistance of $7,500 and must be used to remove health and safety hazards or make a home more handicap accessible.

These programs have been very successful by providing decent, safe, and sanitary housing in rural New York. For more information on these programs and how to apply, contact the USDA’s Middletown office at 845-343-1872 ext. 4 or visit http://www.rd.usda.gov/to find out more about USDA’s housing programs.

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Providing the Best Quality & Service and Prices in the Area for 42 Years

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Simple steps to seed starting success G

SMARTER | BOLDER | FASTER

EARLY 1800s STONE HOUSE MLS #40631

$345,000

LOVELY HOME ON CORNER LOT MLS #40265

$187,500

Beth Bernitt

30 Forestburgh Road, Monticello, NY 12701

27455

Increase success and encourage even growth by growing seedlings under artificial lights.

Continue to grow your plants in a sunny window or under artificial lights and water thoroughly and often enough to keep the soil slightly moist.

Soon it will be time to move your homegrown transplants into the garden.

Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers’ website, www.melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips.

GLENN L. SMITH, P.E. CONSULTING ENGINEER, P.C. P.O. Box 156 533 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701

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et a jump on the growing season by starting your favorite or hard to find plants indoors from seeds. Starting hard to find plants, like many of the heirloom or newly introduced varieties, from seed may be the only way you will be able to add these to your garden. Plus, you’ll be extending the growing season and bringing the fun of gardening indoors.

All you need is a little space, a few supplies and of course seeds to get started. Check the back of your seed packets for planting directions. Most recommend when and how to start seeds indoors as well as any other special care the seedlings will need.

Purchase, recycle or make your own containers from newspaper. Sanitize used pots by dipping them in a one part bleach and nine parts water solution and then rinsing them with clean water.

Fill the containers with a sterile welldrained potting mix or seed starting mix. Once the containers are filled, plant the seeds according to the seed packet directions.

For most seeds, plant them twice their diameter deep and gently water. Continue to water often enough to keep the soil slightly moist. Extend the time between watering and increase your seed starting success by covering the container with plastic. Or purchase a seed starting kit, like the self-watering Growease seed starter kits.

Move your containers to a sunny window as soon as the seedlings emerge

from the soil. Turn plants often to encourage even growth. Or increase your success by growing seedlings under artificial lights. You can make your own light system or purchase tabletop, shelf units or easy to assemble light systems, like Stack-N-Grow (gardeners.com). Keep the lights four to six inches above the top of the seedlings for best results. As the seedlings grow, be sure to maintain this distance by simply raising the lights or lowering the containers.

Move overcrowded seedlings to larger containers once they have two sets of true leaves. The first leaves that appear are rather indistinct and are called seed leaves. The next set of leaves look more like the mature plant’s leaves and are called true leaves. Once the next set of true leaves forms, it is time to transplant overcrowded seedlings.

Use a fork or spoon to carefully lift out the seedling. Clusters of seedlings can be dug and carefully teased apart before planting in individual pots. Be careful not to pinch and damage the young tender stems.

Place seedlings in their own clean container filled with moist sterile potting mix. Plant the young plants at the same depth they were growing in the original container.

Thin seedlings started in individual containers as needed. If you planted several seeds in each small container remove all but the healthiest one. Prune the weaker seedlings to ground level, so the remaining seedling can develop into a strong transplant for the garden.

Available - MLS #40242 CERTIFIED ORGANIC 19+ ACRE FARM w/home, apartment and studio (SEE WEBSITE)

Glenn Smith President

22413

BY MELINDA MYERS

Ph: (845) 796-2216 Fax: (845) 796-2716 Email: gsmith.pepc@verizon.net

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Beechwoods beauty commands great views his brand new contemporary with spectacular longrange views sits on nearly seven acres overlooking a nice pond.

The cedar home was custombuilt by Justin McElroy and Just-InTime Contracting of Hortonville. It features a soaring cathedral ceiling

in the great room, opening to a spacious deck with views.

The main floor contains the living area, as well as a master bedroom and full bath. Hand-made stairs take you to a lofted area with two other bedrooms and another full bath.

Though no appliances are included, the kitchen features granite counters and lovely bright cabinets. The bathrooms are sleek, with high-end tile, chic vanities, and granite counters. The home has central A/C. There’s a full basement for all

kinds of storage or finishing. It’s just a five-minute drive to Callicoon for shopping, eateries, movies, bowling, and Delaware River activities; 10 minutes to Jeffersonville; and 15 minutes to Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center for concerts.

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Opposite page: A view from across the pond. The great deck encompasses two sides of the house and has great potential for gatherings and entertaining.

Top: Big windows for light and views dominate the great room. Note the polished hardwood floors and woodwork. The cathedral ceiling dominates – awaiting only furniture and the homeowners’ decorative touch.

Above: The kitchen features granite countertops and new cabinets.

At top right: One of two full baths, with attractive fixtures and details.

Right: This bathroom boasts a separate bath and shower, along with attractive tiling.

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HOME FEATURES The pond is over 100 years old and used to be part of the Boyle farm.

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woodwork

landscape & environmental spaces

JesseGsNursery.com

•

914.443.5802

TV: Cable available on road

Hamlet: Callicoon

Electric: Circuit Breaker

Township: Delaware

Land Features: Cleared, mature trees,

School District: Sullivan West

pond, view, water view, wooded

Year Built: 2014

Heating: Forced warm air, pellet stove

Condition: New

Fuel: LP Gas

Style: Contemporary

Heat: Baseboard

Type: Single Family

Electric: 200 amps

Bedrooms: 3

Road: Paved, Town

Full Baths: 2

Sewer: Septic

Total Baths: 2

Water: Drilled well

Garage Type: None

Price: $349,000

Acres: 6.730

MLS No.: 40112

Square Feet: 1,400

Approximate Total Taxes: $4,218

Appliances: Central A/C

Broker: Matthew J. Freda Real Estate

Basement: Below Grade, Full

21 Lower Main Street

Exterior Finish: Cedar

Callicoon, NY 12723

Roof: Shingle

Phone: 845-887-5640

Interior Amenities: Cathedral ceiling, 15936

bluestone work • patios & terraces • privacy screens out-buildings • water gardens & ponds

Address: 107 Gabel Road

glass, great room, hardwood floors, insulated windows, wall/wall carpet,

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27628

BEAUTIFUL LAKE WALLENPAUPACK

27126

Route 6 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN HONESDALE

Church & 6th Sts. A Unique Montessori School

Peter and Marsha Comstock, Directors

- Preschool to Seventh - Foreign Language, Grade Art & Music 428 Hollow Road - Full Academic, Enrichment - 85 Acre Campus Glen Spey, NY 12737 & Outdoor Education - 25 minutes from Port Jervis 845.856.6359 Programs and Monticello www.homesteadschool.com

CHARMING MILFORD NEW 16348

Water St.

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24H

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Loans for Rural Properties or Extra Acreage EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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