December 25 - 31, 2014 by Stuart Communications

Your Award-Winning News Source for the Upper Delaware River Valley Region Since 1975

Vol. 40 No. 52

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

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Triumph (for now) of the fractivists By FRITZ MAYER

been instrumental in shaping the conclusion that was ultimately reached. In a YouTube video shot by journalist Sabrina Artel (tinyurl.com/mbdhukl), Cuomo accepted a sign handed to him thanking him for the ban, and he said, “You really did a great job of making your voices heard, and that’s what democracy’s all about; and I actually enjoyed seeing it in action. I know it didn’t always seem that way.” The community of fractivists in the Upper Delaware River Valley sprouted up in 2008 and grew vigorously over the next several years to include Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy (CCSE), Catskill Mountainkeeper, Damascus Citizens for Sustainability and Sullivan Area Citizens

EGION — They were so committed, active and numerous that a new name had to be created to describe them—fractivists, or activists opposed to high-volume hydraulic fracturing. After Gov. Cuomo announced on December 17 that fracking would be banned in the state, he traveled the next day to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. He had not, however, come to talk about the fracking ban, but instead about Sullivan County’s newly-promised casino. Analysts say he is distancing himself from the ban should he seek the presidency one day. But he did acknowledge to a small group of fractivists in Albany that they had

TRR photo by Isabel Braverman

In June 2013, “Gasland Part II” played to a packed house in the Callicoon Theater. The documentary about hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, by director and Milanville, PA resident Josh Fox, picked up where the original Academy Award nominated “Gasland” ended.

TRR photo by Fritz Mayer

Members of Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy mail comments to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation in January of 2013.

for Responsible Energy Development. They teamed up with other environmental groups such as the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), EarthJustice, the Delaware Riverkeeper Network and the Community Environmental Defense Council. The fractivists included celebrities such as Mark Ruffalo, Debra Winger, Yoko Ono and filmmaker Josh Fox. Early on, it seemed inevitable that New York would soon complete its Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) within a few months and drilling and fracking in the state would commence. Many were convinced that the coming gas rush would bring riches to residents who lived above the Marcellus Shale, and the economic benefit would

be “transformative to the region.” But questions arose about health impacts and economic viability; skepticism grew and people engaged. The completion of the SGEIS stretched from months to years. The growing opposition to fracking could be seen in the ever increasing number of comments submitted to New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). In 2009, a draft version of the SGEIS elicited 14,000 comments. Three years later a revised draft SGEIS received more than 65,000 mostly negative comments. In 2013, the DEC received more than 200,000 comments criticizing the proposed fracking regulations, with Continued on page 3

SPANNING 2 STATES, 4 COUNTIES, AND A RIVER THAT UNITES US

NEWS: A casino for Sullivan

Wassail: The joy of drinking local

2 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

Berlin Township adopts 2015 budget By LINDA DROLLINGER

EACH LAKE, PA — In a December 16 meeting that lasted only 40 minutes, the Berlin Township Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted its proposed 2015 budget, without comment from the board or questions from the public. It also adopted a new ordinance electing township participation in the Pennsylvania State Association of Townships (PSATS) Unemployment Compensation Trust, which will allow the township to pay lower unemployment insurance premiums. And it passed a resolution to advertise public review of a proposed nuisance ordinance. But before it took any of those actions, the board threw the floor open for public comment, which drew the question, “Does the township have a dog poop ordinance?” Chairman Paul Henry answered, “It does not. But if public health is at risk, action can be taken.” Producing photographic evidence to support the claim that several dogs in a multi-dwelling complex were consistently littering the yard outside his unit and that their owners had repeatedly failed to remove pet deposits despite numerous requests to do so, the resident asked, “Is this enough for you to do something about it?” When the board had viewed the photos, Henry said, “We’ll take care of it.” The proposed nuisance ordinance, available for public viewing at the Berlin Township Community Center on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. through 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. through 1 p.m. until January 20, seeks to address blighted properties, defined as those which “contain amounts of debris, junk, garbage, abandoned vehicles and tires and overgrown vegetation that substantially and adversely affect property values, public health, safety, welfare, as well as hamper commerce and adversely affect the quality of life that the community and its residents enjoy.” A subsequent paragraph includes a noise provision stating in part: “…a public nuisance shall be deemed to exist whenever excessive noise is generated upon various properties, which is transmitted to neighboring properties and the public streets… “ The ordinance goes on to state, “It is the intent of this Ordinance to enact legislation that specifically addresses the causes of blighting and deteriorating conditions… and to implement a policy to reverse said impact by establishing enforcement provisions as set forth herein.” Failure to correct within 10 days those conditions cited in the notice of violation warning would be punishable by fine ($300 to $1,000) or imprisonment (up to six months). Updating the township’s ongoing dispute of the $4,016 Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) fine levied against its municipal sewer authority, Cathy Hunt noted that the township’s formal appeal (via hearing to show cause), originally scheduled for December 9, has been rescheduled to March 10, 2015. Although the DRBC has rejected the township’s claim that it derived no economic benefit from its failures to monitor for certain pollutants, it has agreed to let the township pay its fines in four quarterly installments. The board of supervisors’ 2015 reorganization meeting will be held January 5, 2015 at 7 p.m. The board of auditors’ reorganization meeting is scheduled for January 6 at 7 p.m. The public hearing for review of the proposed nuisance ordinance is scheduled for January 20 at 7:15 p.m.

THE RIVER REPORTER

IN BRIEF

Fourth year for Liberty CFA grant

Winter photo contest

LIBERTY, NY — For the fourth year in a row, the Town of Liberty was successful in obtaining a grant from the New York State Consolidated Funding (CFA) process. This year’s award is in the amount of $599,500 for a much needed replacement of a major water line in the White Sulphur Springs Water District. This water line replacement represents Phase 5 of the plan to address the town’s water infrastructure needs. Past grant awards have been used to correct deficiencies at the Loomis wastewater treatment facility and other work in the White Sulphur Springs Water District. These grant monies represent out-of-pocket savings to the residents of these districts, because without these grants the money would have to come directly from the district residents in the form of higher levees. The Village of Liberty was also successful, being awarded $599,500 to become compliant with their New York State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit and improve the ultraviolet treatment at the village wastewater treatment facility. Under the CFA process, there were only six grants awarded in Sullivan County for a total of approximately $1.5 million. The awards to the Village and Town of Liberty constitute nearly $1.2 million of the total awarded in the county.

FERNDALE, NY — The Sullivan County Visitors Association (SCVA) is hosting its second online photo contest, this time centered on the region’s beauty during the winter season. The organization’s first contest, focusing on fall foliage, resulted in more than 1,000 votes cast for 174 photos submitted by 91 photographers. “We want to carry that creative spark forward into the winter by encouraging people to take pictures at the ski slope or snap a shot of friends by a roaring fire,” said Roberta Byron-Lockwood, SCVA president. “We want photographers to get out there and mix it up with this contest.” To make submitting even easier, the SCVA has expanded its social positioning by including both Twitter and Instagram. Users simply post their photos with the hashtag #SCWinterWonderland and include the details regarding where the image was taken. Submissions are also being accepted through the SCVA’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SullivanCountyCatskills) and website (www.scva.net/winter-wonderland-contest). The Winter Wonderland Photo Contest runs through January 26, 2015; winners will be announced on January 28, 2015. The photo with the most online votes will win one of several tourism-related prizes contributed from SCVA’s membership. Photographers may submit up to one photo per day.

Port Jervis judge to be sworn in PORT JERVIS, NY — The race for city court judge in Port Jervis has been certified by the Orange County Board of Elections, and James Hendry will be sworn in by outgoing Judge Victoria B. Campbell on December 31 at 1 p.m. in city council chambers. The ceremony is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. The election was slow to be determined because Hendry led by only 11 votes on Election Day with 286 absentee ballots uncounted. When the absentee ballots were opened, Hendry gained another 18 votes on his opponent of the 227 opened. There were 53 challenges made on the absentee ballots, primarily by the attorneys for Elisa Tutini and Karl Brebenec, the candidates for New York State Assembly. “A court action was filed on that Assembly race because it was so close,” said Hendry. “I had to wait for that action to unfold.” Ultimately the Assembly candidates agreed to open more votes, and that gave Hendry enough votes to win his election, which was certified on December 15. “I look forward to serving my hometown in this new capacity as judge,” Hendry said.

Toys stolen in Honesdale HONESDALE, PA — A lot of toys, worth between $2,000 and $3,000, were stolen from the Toys for Tots program in Honesdale on December 19. Shari Tirado, the coordinator of Toys for Tots in Wayne and Pike counties, said a thief made off with the toys that were intended to go to teenage boys and girls, as the organization was preparing to go into a second round of handing out the toys. A message on the organization’s Facebook page said, “We are sitting here in tears, hoping we can help the rest of the families coming in. The Honesdale Police Department has been notified, and we hope that you are caught. You took more than toys from us; you took the magic out of Christmas.” The organization is offering a $500 reward for information leading to an arrest of the person(s) responsible for the thefts. Tirado said this was the busiest year ever for Toys for Tots in Honesdale. MEMBER NYPA • MEMBER NNA

The weekly newspaper that respects your intelligence Published by: Stuart Communciations, Inc. • Office location: 93 Erie Avenue, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 Mailing address: PO Box 150, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 • Phone: 845/252-7414, Fax: 845/252-3298 Publisher ...................................................... Laurie Stuart .................ext. 33 ............. publisher@riverreporter.com Print and Online Editor............................... Fritz Mayer .....................ext. 28 ............fritzmayer@riverreporter.com Managing Editor ......................................... Anne Willard ..................ext. 29 ........... copyeditor@riverreporter.com Editorial Assistant ...................................... Isabel Braverman .........ext. 30 ................... isabel@riverreporter.com Production & Circulation Manager ......... Amanda Reed ................ext. 23 ............... amanda@riverreporter.com Sales Manager ............................................ Tanya Hubbert ...............ext. 34 ....................tanya@riverreporter.com Sales Associate........................................... Michelle Labbate ..........ext. 32 ...............michelle@riverreporter.com Classified Representative ......................... Eileen Hennessy ...........ext. 35 ...................eileen@riverreporter.com News editor@riverreporter.com Press Releases copyeditor@riverreporter.com

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Opinions expressed by the editors and writers are their own and are not necessarily the views of the publisher or the advertisers. The appearance of advertisements does not constitute an endorsement of the firms, products or services. Official newspaper of: Sullivan County; towns of Bethel, Cochecton, Lumberland and Tusten; Sullivan West, Eldred and BOCES school districts; and the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance Subscription rate: $72/2 years, $42/1 year, $30/6 months. Published weekly on Thursdays. USPS 354-810. Periodical postage paid at Narrowsburg, NY 12764 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The River Reporter, PO Box 150, Narrowsburg, NY 12764. Entire contents © 2014 by Stuart Communications, Inc.

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 3

THE RIVER REPORTER

Fracking to be prohibited in New York State By FRITZ MAYER

LBANY, NY — During a cabinet meeting in Albany on December 17, Howard Zucker, M.D. the acting New York State health commissioner, said that he could not recommend that hydraulic fracturing should be allowed to go forward. Zucker cited several existing studies on fracking and its impacts on human health and said that many of them raised “red flags,” but he said that there were not enough studies, and specifically “longitudinal studies,” that could settle the question with certainty. Zucker pointed out that when he was a child, second-hand smoke was thought not to be dangerous to nonsmokers; now it is known that the opposite is true. He said that the issue of fracking needs to be addressed with a long-term view. Zucker quoted a former commissioner of health who said, “We must exercise a

sense of concern for future generations.” Zucker said he faced tough decisions in his medical practice. “How did I decide whether to send a two-year-old child for heart surgery when the decision was complex? When there wasn’t conclusive medical data, I said to myself, ‘What would I do?’” “I feel the same here. Would I live in a community with [fracking], based on the facts I have now? Would I let my child play in the school field nearby? Or my family drink the water from the tap, or grow vegetables in the soil? After looking at the plethora of reports—as you see behind me and the others in my office—my answer is ‘no.’” Joe Martens, the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), then said he would move to prohibit fracking in the state next year. He said he would complete the Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact

Statement, which has been open for five years, and he would complete that process in January and issue a finding that would prohibit frakcing. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said this was a decision involving Martens and Zucker, and did not involve him. It was noted that New York has been the only state that has included the Department of Health in deliberations about whether fracking should be allowed to go forward. There were many critics of the development. Karen Moreau, the executive director of the New York State Petroleum Council, said “Gov. Cuomo acted irresponsibly… putting the state’s economy on a reckless path and ignoring the needs of New York families, economic opportunity, job creation, revenue to the government and America’s need for energy security. “Today’s action by Gov. Cuomo shows that New York families, teachers, roads and good-paying jobs have lost out to po-

litical gamesmanship. This is the wrong direction for New York.” Katie Brown, writing on the website Energy in Depth, wrote that most of the material Zucker cited in recommendation, “has been either discredited or shown to have exceedingly faulty methodologies.” On the other side of the debate, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune made the opposite point: “The Sierra Club applauds Governor Cuomo for recognizing what the science has made consistently clear: fracking is a hazard to human health that endangers communities wherever it is allowed. By banning fracking, Gov. Cuomo has set himself apart as a national political leader who stands up for people, and not for the interests of the dirty fuel lobby.” Cuomo said he expects the ban to spark lawsuits, but some analysts have said drillers are no longer interested in the state.

Cuomo lands at Bethel Woods By FRITZ MAYER

ETHEL, NY — With a line that got a pretty good laugh, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said of New York State Sen. John Bonacic, “When I first met him, I thought he had a speech impediment: ‘casino, casino, casino.’” The joke ultimately became praise for Bonacic and for his persistence in pursuing a casino for Sullivan County for so many years. The Event Gallery at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts was packed to capacity on December 18, a day after the Gaming Facility Location Board announced that they recommended there should be one casino in the Catskills and Hudson Valley region, and the license should go to Empire Resorts’ casino Montreign in the Town of Thompson. Sen. Bonacic said that when Orange County was added to the mix of possible casino locations, he could hear some “despair” in the voices of some residents. But, he said, he never doubted that Sullivan would get a casino. He further said the casino would also generate revenue for Orange and Ulster counties and draw employees from them. Cuomo delivered a pep talk about how the proposed casino would revitalize the region because it will be a destination and one that will draw some of the 50 million tourists who visit New York City each year by inducing them to “look north.” He said the casino, Montreign, will be “not

His words were greeted with enthujust a casino, but a casino as a larger siastic applause multiple times by a resort destination to bring people, crowd that was already convinced bring families for a weekend, for a of the regenerative powers of a caweek; and that is really an economic sino resort destination springing up development generator.” from the ground that now serves as a And not just for Sullivan County, graveyard for the Concord Resort of he said. “This is so big, this is so yesteryear. massive, that it will create spin-off What are the elements of this rebusinesses; it can regenerate an sort destination? Stu Rabinowitz, a entire region on the theme and the member of the location committee essence of what the region was to enumerated them the previous day begin with… It is going to work bewhen the recommendations about cause it has worked in the past. We TRR photo by Fritz Mayer know the proximity to the city is which projects should receive liGov. Andrew Cuomo soaks up a sustained round there. We know you’re going to offer of applause at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts censes were announced. He said, “Montreign proposes an 18-story a service and an attraction that you on December 18. casino-hotel and entertainment can’t get anywhere else. We know complex, featuring an 86,300-square-foot casino with 61 that it’s going to be first class. You will rediscover the Catskills. And a whole generation of people who never gaming tables and 2,150 slot machines, 391 hotel rooms, multiple dining and entertainment options and several came north—who were always going east—are going to meeting spaces. be introduced to upstate (which technically starts above “Adelar [within which Montreign would be situated] the Bronx) and they’re going to see the Catskills and they’re going to love them. And they’re going to want to would feature an indoor water park and hotel, an entertainment village with dining and retail outlets, a golf buy a second home, and they’re going to want to move, course and significant residential development… Monand they’re going to want to vacation. We just have to extreign projects $301 million in gross gaming revenues in pose what we have. It’s what made us once; it will be what 2019 and $103 million in gaming tax revenues.” makes us again.”

TRIUMPH Continued from page 1

nearly 24,000 coming through CCSE. The fractivists also took their message on the road with numerous trips to Albany to lobby lawmakers and trips to other parts of the state and the country that were having issues with fracking. They also took their message to town halls, and in Sullivan County five towns passed resolutions banning hydraulic fracturing. The fractivists took their message to the courts and three times the state

courts ruled that towns had the right to ban fracking. Sometimes the fracitvists’ message was repeated so often and with such intensity that officials attempted to silence them. The board members of the Town of Sanford in Broome County were so sick of hearing residents complain about gas drilling and fracking that, in September 2012, the board passed a resolution forbidding residents from talking about it

during public comment. That sparked a federal lawsuit from local residents who were joined by the NRDC and CCSE. A few months later the town board rescinded the resolution. It was a long, intense and sometimes bitter battle. The boards of two towns in Sullivan County adopted measures intended to invite drilling into the town. For now, those invitations have been revoked by the state.

The fractivits would say it seems unlikely that future studies will show that fracking can be done safely. Still, it’s not at all certain that the ban won’t be reversed at some point by some future governor. But whatever the future, for now, the first state-wide ban of fracking in the country is a historic victory for the fractivists.

4 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

Tourism recovering slowly By DAVID HULSE

ILFORD, PA — In an area where tourism is king, the nurturing of the hotel and tourism industry is economic development. Carl Wilgus, president and CEO of the four-county Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) emphasized that point early on in his annual report to the Pike County Commissioners, saying the bureau’s business is “economic development through tourism marketing.” In 2014, PMVB spent $5.2 million of its near $6 million budget on sales and marketing. Convention bookings are the heart of bureau sales, and Wilgus reported that expanded use of Internet marketing provided a 15% increase in leads over the prior year. PMVB saw a 91% rise in Internet

By DAVID HULSE

hits after adding an “app” for hand-held devices. He admitted that actual room nights had only a modest increase in the recovering economy. “We expect a healthy bump with the opening of 400 rooms at Kalahari Resort [the new indoor waterpark in Mount Pocono] in June.” Convention room nights in 2014 amounted to 19,432, compared to 29,133 in 2012. With the loss of direct state funding in recent years, Wilgus noted that PMVB is operating on a smaller budget than 2007, and 79% of that funding is derived from the hotel room tax. That money is spent judiciously he explained, in cooperative media advertising buys in New York and New Jersey for example, which for a $1.6 million investment accessed $3.5 million in advertising.

ship Tax Collector Irene Cohen’s nomination of Kathy Young, who already serves as tax collector in Dreher Township. They re-affirmed Wayne’s participation in the Pocono Counties Workforce Investment Area, in which Carbon County acts as fiscal manager. They approved the December 12 termination of probationary 911 employee, James Darby. They approved the hiring of parttime mailroom clerk Diane Gibbons for 25 hours weekly, at a salary of $9.25 per hour. They recognized the December 22 judicial appointment of Kerin Podunajec as law clerk to President Judge Raymond Hamill at a salary of $31,370.35.

approving the revised plans for the Milford courthouse addition. “Now we can take it to the borough,” he said. The commissioners met briefly on December 23 to give final approval to Pike’s 2015 budget.

They recognized the January 5 appointment of Kimberly Searfaas, as law clerk to District Magistrate Mikulak, subject to salary board action in January. Similarly subject to January salary board action, they also appointed Timothy Sykes, Michael Kluck, Bradley Quinn, Sara Gabell and Frank Sek as part-time correction officers, effective on January 5. In meeting changes, they scheduled a special 10:30 a.m., January 2 salary board meeting to adopt salary schedules and noted that the next commissioners meeting would take place at 10:30 a.m. on December 30. The courthouse will be closed on January 1 in observance of New Year’s Day.

Tusten considers cost of deck

ARROWSBURG, NY — It was recently brought to the attention of the Town of Tusten that the deck on Main Street in Narrowsburg will need to be replaced. In August, the Tusten Town Board agreed that it would be their responsibility to replace the deck. At the September meeting, the Narrowsburg Beautification Group contributed its Golden Feather Award of $25,000 toward the rebuilding of the deck, and the $106,000 grant from the state for the Waterfront Revitalization Project will go to the deck. In November, it was announced that the cost would be around $300,000. Now, at the December Town Board meeting, the board discussed the cost, saying it is too high. The conversation was spurred by two letters that Supervisor Carol Wingert read at the December 17 meeting, one from Charles Petersheim and one from Karl Wasner. In Petersheim’s letter, he writes

TRR photo by David Hulse

Carl Wilgus, president and CEO of the fourcounty, Pocono Visitors Bureau is pictured on December 17 as he presented his annual report to the Pike County Commissioners.

Wayne’s budget finalized

ONESDALE, PA — The Wayne County Commissioners on December 18 voted final approval of Wayne County’s $30,513,407.57 appropriations budget for 2015. A zero tax rate increase was achieved. The rate was maintained despite a $540,000 increase in overall spending, which was matched by an equivalent increase in other, non-tax revenues. The total tax levy remained at 3.41 mils for all funds. In other business, the commissioners, acting in observance of new state law, continued the approval of township deputy tax collectors. They affirmed Lehigh Town-

By ISABEL BRAVERMAN

Bureau operating costs totaled 13% of the budget, compared to 17% in other tourism bureaus of PMVB’s size. Wilgus spoke in support of an amended hotel tax bill in the legislature, which would allow counties to increase the rate from the current 3% to 5%. That increase would also, for the first time, include campgrounds in the tax, although it’s unknown whether campgrounds located on state lands or federal lands in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area would be taxable. Campground owners oppose the change. The amendment also provides for an increase in a county’s administrative fee for collecting the tax from 2% to up to 5%. In other business, Commissioner Matt Osterberg said the county has received word from the PA Museum Commission

TRR photo by Fritz Mayer

If the deck on Main Street in Narrowsburg is not replaced by next summer, it will have to be closed to the public. that the deck has stable footing and could be rebuilt at a fraction of the cost. “I was pleasantly surprised to see numerous and large deck footings already in place, reducing, in my opinion, the project’s scope and complexity by 75% or more,” wrote Petersheim. Wasner, the design committee chair, responded that the deck is a “focal point of the town” and that it should be built as it is designed. “This space, if built as designed, will serve all

residents year round as a connection to this mighty river and a reminder of our history and a beacon pointing to our future,” he wrote. The reason the cost is so high is because the foundation needs to be drilled down into the rock. As it stands now it is basically sitting on ash, and therefore over the past few years the deck has shifted. Larry Boudreau of Chazen Companies and town engineer Wes Iling both agreed that this is true and that the deck needs a new foundation. However, Councilman Ned Lang and Petersheim assert that it does not need a new foundation, and that a new deck should just be built on top of the existing foundation. In his letter, Wasner responded to this contention: “The design that Larry was authorized to work on by the design committee could not possibly use the existing foundations. The town came together as a whole to design the new deck and then came together to approve the design.

Now we simply are trying to build what was designed and approved.” Some of the board agreed the price is too high. “Everybody loves it [the deck],” said Councilman Tony Ritter. “It is definitely an attribute of our town. What I’ve been hearing, though, is, ‘do we need to spend upwards to $300,000 on this?’ Some of the people I’ve spoken to, who happen to be contractors, are saying, ‘You can still get a beautiful deck and structurally sound for the next 30 to 40 years, but you don’t have to spend $300,000.’” Wingert pointed out that there are a lot of things on the list that can be accomplished with in-kind services, such as taking down the existing deck and donated bluestone, which will save money. The board agreed that there should be a public hearing for receiving public input on the idea of bonding money for the deck, but they tabled the resolution to set a date for the public hearing until the next meeting.

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 5

THE RIVER REPORTER

Racial bullying charges at Sullivan West By LINDA DROLLINGER

AKE HUNTINGTON, NY — Sparse attendance at a relatively brief December 18 Sullivan West Central School District Board of Education meeting may have undercut somewhat the serious student welfare and social conscience issues presented. Identifying himself as the parent of two Sullivan West students, a girl in fourth grade and a boy in sixth grade, Johnathan Murphy described during the public comment segment of the meeting two apparent failings of the elementary school: inability to keep track of student whereabouts and bullying based on skin color and race. Murphy said that there were several instances during the current semester in which the school misplaced his children during transport home, sometimes because his instructions to the school were ignored and, at least once, because the school’s stated intentions were not followed. Murphy also recounted one instance of his nine-year-old daughter being so distraught by racial bullying that she left the school to escape it, and was later found walking in Jeffersonville, school officials seemingly unaware of her absence. Although the board adhered to its previously stated policy of not responding to comments made during the

public comment segment, individual board members acknowledged Murphy’s concerns in their closing statements, promising prompt investigation of his claims. A slideshow presentation by assistant superintendent for administrative services Lorraine Poston outlining provisions of the Alternative Veteran Tax Exemption (AVTE) law and pursuant fiscal consequences, demonstrated how the law, if adopted, will impact not only veterans disabled in combat, but also all district taxpayers. Because the district’s tax levy is unchanged, affording exemptions to combat veterans will result in redistribution of charges to other taxpayers and may affect STAR program exemptions as well. Board member Lucas Arzilli said, “Everyone wants to support our veterans, but the board has an equal responsibility to all district taxpayers.” At last month’s board meeting, a group of local veterans urged the board to adopt AVTE as a way to honor their sacrifices and help disabled veterans with limited incomes. Although the difference to individual taxpayers will vary by the number of disabled veterans residing in each town, Poston’s summary estimate calculations make the average taxpayer’s increase of around $15 per parcel a year seem almost negligible. But, as Arzilli pointed out, “In this economically depressed area, that

Damascus braces for winter By LINDA DROLLINGER

AMASCUS, PA — Barely had those assembled for the December 15 meeting of the Damascus board of supervisors finished reciting the Pledge of Allegiance than Chairman Jeff Dexter was extending the board’s wishes for safe and happy holidays and adjourning the meeting. Before adjournment, however, the board passed unanimously a resolution authorizing low-interest financing, 2.45%, on its new all-stainless dump truck. Operations manager Steve Adams said that during the 10 days the truck has been in township service, it has performed well and is already equipped with main and wing plows. But there is one small wrinkle: with wing plow attached, the new truck is too big for the township garage. In other road maintenance news, Ad-

ams noted that all trucks are now plowready and that this year, for the first time in many years, the township will have access to V-plowing. A V-plow, found among old township equipment, has been modified for use on a grader. Typically used in blizzard conditions, V-plows offer notable advantages over conventional commercial plows, among them path-cutting capability and speed and efficiency in moving large-volume snows. The planning commission and zoning board reported that there are currently two vacancies, one on the planning commission, one on the zoning hearing board, with a second pending on the zoning hearing board. For application instructions, call 570/224-4410. The board’s 2015 reorganization meeting is scheduled for January 5; the next regular monthly meeting will be held on January 19 at 7 p.m.

could be the cost of one family meal.” The presentation can be viewed in its entirety at tinyurl.com/n7lrcyb. The board must adopt AVTE before March 1, 2015, for veterans to file for 2015-16 exemptions. Already adopted by Tri-Valley and Eldred school districts, AVTE was narrowly defeated last year in Fallsburg, but is scheduled for revote this year. A public hearing to review the adoption proposal will be held January 15 at 6:45 p.m., immediately preceding the monthly board meeting. The board voted to award the elementary school weather station equipment bid to sole bidder, Earth Networks, Inc. Weatherbug will permit hands-on student experience in atmospheric science, as the weather station produces accurate real-time Jeffersonville weather forecasts. And, now, thanks to Internet technology, both girls and boys high school basketball games will be streamed live and free of charge at www.empirestatesports.com/. The board voted, reluctantly, to accept the retirement resignation of high school principal Margaret Tenbus, effective July 1, 2015. Recognizing her 30 years of exemplary district service, board members noted that she is held in high esteem by administration, faculty, staff and students alike, and added their own praise for her many career accomplishments. For meeting minutes, visit www.swcsd.org.

Honesdale meeting By LINDA DROLLINGER

ONESDALE, PA — The Honesdale Borough Council raced through the 45- minute public portion of its December 8 meeting, as if anxious to get down and dirty in the executive session that followed. It was there that Police Chief Rick Southerton and the council planned to hammer out temporary police duty schedules that fall within the borough’s end-of-year budgetary constraints. Last month, the council voted to reduce 24/7 police coverage to one-man, weekday patrols during non-holiday weeks. Mayor Jack Bishop, police liaison, said, “That schedule is just not working.” What the council ultimately decides may well depend on December weather forecasts. Overtime pay for snow removal by department of public works (DPW) employees will further strain already stretched

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salary lines. And snowstorms usually require additional police presence to oversee increased traffic accidents and sidewalk snow removal enforcement, as Greater Honesdale Partnership Executive Director Gail Tucker pointed out when she asked for routine enforcement of borough ordinances requiring landlords to remove snow from storefront sidewalks. Southerton said that during one recent storm, the force reminded delinquent landlords of their responsibility to have sidewalks cleared within six hours of snowfall’s end, and that one landlord was ticketed for failure to comply. Also, Bill Canfield introduced a resolution to end the borough’s recycling program, saying that new recycling procedures combined with the willingness of most private refuse haulers to handle recyclables has made the borough’s responsibility largely redundant.

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6 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

EDITORIAL

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

With community, anything is possible By ISABEL BRAVERMAN

remember when I first heard about fracking. I’m sure you do, too. It was many years ago, I’m not sure of the exact date, when I was at a fundraiser for Damascus Citizens for Sustainability and a guy named Josh Fox was there to show clips from his upcoming documentary “Gasland.” The movement to rally against fracking seemed to happen both quickly and slowly. First, we had to educate ourselves about this new thing. What is it? How does it work? What are the risks? What are the impacts (on the environment, health and economy)? That part seemed to go slowly. And as we learned more about fracking, we passed on the news to more and more people—our neighbors, our friends, our co-workers. Suddenly the movement started to, well, move. Many people knew what fracking was, and with the help of many people, organizations and the Oscar-nominated “Gasland,” it became a national conversation. We saw what was happening in Colorado and Texas and here in Pennsylvania. We saw water from a faucet being lit on fire. It was time for a call to action. Grassroots groups formed and everyone had something to contribute: artists, scientists, activists. Local groups are a major contribution to the fight against fracking, and so we thank Damascus Citizens for Sustainability, Catskill Mountainkeeper, Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy, among others, and also Josh Fox and Mark Ruffalo. And last week, Gov. Andrew Cuomo; Howard Zucker M.D., the acting commissioner of the New York State Department of Health; and Joe Martens, the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, showed themselves to be fearless leaders making decisions based on fact, science and compassion, when they decided that fracking will not be permitted in New York State. This decision is a win for many reasons. It is a victory for clean air, water and land. It is a victory for environ-

DR. PUNNYBONE

mentalists, grassroots organizations and activists—who are all too often, in the face of well-funded corporate interests, the underdog. It is a victory for science. It was truly a grassroots movement, and it takes a strong and united community to see through this kind of positive change. And while I know that there are people who thought that fracking would save our area through robust economics, we now have the opportunity to explore ways to make sure that we build a sustainable economic future without the sacrifice of our tranquil setting and unspoiled landscape. This news comes at an interesting time. Christmas is here, and it is the end of 2014. The holiday season is the time to reflect on the past year. Thinking about the national news, it was a tumultuous year. At this time, there appears to be especially strident discord within the United States. The protests related to the cases of Michael Brown and Eric Garner are a case in point. And fear seemed to be unusually prevalent this year as well, with the Ebola outbreaks, ISIS militants and the disappearance of the Malaysian Airlines plane. It was broadcast everywhere—television, newspapers, and the Internet. It weighed heavily on everyone’s mind. The Internet is an interesting thing. It is a pervasive presence. It unites us and divides us. It also allows us to receive news almost instantly after it happens. When the news broke about Michael Brown, I saw it first on Facebook. Protests were organized on Facebook, and hash tags on Twitter went viral. It’s easy to be swept up in Internet news. But what we have here in our area, the Upper Delaware River Valley, is something stronger than the Internet, something that allows us to take a collective breath and rely on each other for an escape from all the craziness—community. I write this editorial as an ode to our community, the people in it, and the way we interact. There is a reason people live here, and that is because of the clean air and water, beautiful views and knowing your neighbor. Talking about issues not on a broad scale (like angry Internet comments) but in small groups is conducive to real, intelligent and comforting conversation. So as we end this year and look back on it, it can be overwhelming to think of all the negative events that have happened. But as we start this New Year, look at the people you live near and reach out and talk to them. If our community can influence the highest state officials to act on the behalf of environmental health and safety, we can do anything. Happy Holidays!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “The black moment is the moment when the real message of transformation is going to come. At the darkest moment comes the light.” Stocking Stuffers

— Joseph Campbell

Thank you Chris Gibson? In response to a suggestion that we thank Rep. Chris Gibson for his intention to introduce a resolution to “recognize the reality” of climate change, I have to say to the Congressman that he has not been putting his votes where his mouth is on this issue. He recently voted for instant approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline, a climatedamaging project if ever there was one. James Hanson said that if this project is built it is “game over” for the future of humanity. Congressman Gibson also says he supports only safe, clean fracking. There is no such thing as safe, clean fracking as far as protecting clean air and water are concerned and especially with regards to greenhouse gas emissions. Former Congressman Hinchey originally held the same position years ago before he responded to information from environmentalists, including myself, and bravely switched to and championed the side of those who recognized that fracked natural gas is just another dirty fossil fuel. When Congressman Gibson finally accepts that climate disruption can only be avoided by taking big steps away from burning fossil fuels and putting all our efforts toward replacing them with renewable fuels, and votes accordingly, then I will send him the thank-you letter proposed. Allan Rubin Cochecton, NY

The meaning of Christmas What is a holiday tree anyway? Should I say “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays?” Should I only sing holiday songs of the season that don’t mention God? Is Christmas just another holiday equal with Kwanza, Ramadan, Vesak and Festivus (from Seinfeld)? Is Jesus Christ the Son of God, fully God and fully man, part of the Trinity? The real question is not whether you should or should not say “Merry Christmas,” or whether or not to celebrate a traditional American Christmas with a Christmas tree and nativity scene, but rather, what do you believe about Jesus Christ? Because what you do with Jesus sets up your destiny both now and eternally. Thank you. Merry Christmas and God bless America. John JP Pasquale Livingston Manor, NY

Open letter to Cuomo Dear Gov. Cuomo: I’ve been a local journalist in and around Sullivan County for over 30 years. I’ve watched and reported on the county’s casino efforts—state constitutional amendments, Indian casinos and the rest throughout my career. I remember trying to get a response about casinos from your dad when he spoke at the state press association convention (at the old Concord) in 1987. He outfoxed me, but that’s another story. The point is that it Continued on page 7

[THE RIVER REPORTER welcomes letters on all subjects from its readers. They must be signed and include the correspondent’s phone number. The correspondent’s name and town will appear at the bottom of each letter; titles and affiliations will not, unless the correspondent is writing on behalf of a group. Letters are printed at the discretion of the editor. It is requested they be limited to 300 words; longer letters may not be printed, or may be edited down to the appropriate length. No letters or My Views in excess of 600 words will be printed. Deadline is 1:00 p.m. on Monday.]

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 7

THE RIVER REPORTER

MY VIEW

VIEWS FROM THE TRAIN

By Nick Troiano

We get the government we deserve

ate Thursday night, Congress passed a $1.01 trillion spending package—less than 72 hours after the 1,603-page bill was released and less than three hours before government funding was set to expire. Could there have been a more fitting way to end the most dysfunctional and least productive session of Congress in our recent history? The good news is that the 219 to 206 vote averted a government shutdown and will keep most agencies funded through the end of next summer. The bad news is the fact that Congress barely carried out its basic constitutional duties actually qualifies as good news these days. The bill that was passed, known as the “cromnibus,” was a very poor excuse for governing. On the one hand, it was passed through a bad process. The budgeting process calls for 12 individual appropriations bills to be passed by October 1. Instead, two months after the deadline, Congress approves a single bill that (1) combined 11 appropriations into a single “omnibus” appropriation and (2) included a separate “continuing resolution” (CR) to keep the Department of Homeland Security funded at its same level until March—intentionally setting up a partisan showdown on immigration next year. While the size of the appropriations themselves largely followed the spending caps set by last year’s Bipartisan Budget Act, they also included at least $30 billion of gimmicks that will add to the deficit. (Unfortunately, shoving bills off until next year does not count as actual savings in the real world.) On the other hand, the cromnibus contained bad policy. The bill included various extraneous measures that were slipped in behind closed doors and without debate. The most egregious provisions included (1) rolling back financial reforms that prohibited big banks from engaging in practices that contributed to the financial crisis and (2) increasing tenfold the sum of money that wealthy

donors can contribute to political parties. At the same time, Congress exerted its authority to block a referendum approved by the voters of the District of Columbia to legalize marijuana. It’s as if Congress concluded that the real problem with our political process today is that there’s not enough money and too much democracy in it. PA Congressman Tom Marino voted in favor of the legislation, even though it represents pretty much everything he campaigned against this year—including fully funding the Affordable Care Act. Marino’s vote could have been a responsible decision to prevent another shutdown, a pragmatic calculation that there was more good than bad in the bill, and an acceptance of the messy legislative process for what it is. Or Marino’s vote could have simply been a result of the pressure from his party leaders (with whom he votes 94% of the time) and his PAC contributors (from whom he’s raised over $1 million in campaign cash) who supported the bill based on their own self-interest. My guess is the latter. But one can’t know for sure; that’s the real problem here. It’d be easier to give our leaders the benefit of the doubt if they were not but mere pawns in a political game played between both major parties and the special interests on both sides. And it’d be easier for our leaders to actually craft good policy and pass it through a sensible process if they were only beholden to “we, the people” to begin with. Such is not the case today, and it likely won’t be the case in the 114th Congress either. Why? Last month, the voters returned 96% of incumbents to a Congress that only 12% say they approve—Marino among them. On the bright side, the next election is less than two years away. (Or, maybe, that’s a problem, too.) [Nick Troiano of Milford, PA was an independent, citizen-funded candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in PA’s 10th Congressional District in 2014.]

LETTERS Continued from page 6

has been difficult to get an answer about Sullivan County’s problems from anybody in Albany for many years. That brings me to the fracking issue. I’m a native of our gorgeous Delaware River Valley and have spent my adult life reporting on its issues. Our region is more than the Mid-Hudson, more than the Borscht Belt. It’s also the Upper Delaware. You should come and check it out. I know we don’t have the votes or the pull, but we’ve got some beautiful scenery and lots of visitors. But I digress. Given decades of experience with Albany, I and many others developed a well-earned cynicism about the chances of the state seriously responding to our local concerns about air and water quality and industrial impacts, so I expected more of the same in taking on powerful oil/gas industry interests. With all that background, I can’t really tell you how surprised and amazed I was this week with both the casino commission decision and your decision about fracking. You and your administration have made me proud of being a New Yorker for the first time in many years. I’m proud of you and I’m sure your dad is as well. Thank you. Dave Hulse Barryville, NY [Note: Dave Hulse writes freelance news stories for The River Reporter.]

TRR file photo by Tom Kane

By Tom Caska

The space ship

ne of the nice things about riding the train is the diversity of people you meet as you travel. The Upper Delaware is a resort destination and the weekend home to many who come from the city for an escape. We are still home to many of the traditional ethnic diversities that made the Borsht Belt famous in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Over the decades, new ethnic groups have added their particular flavor and flair to our area. Among the newer groups to find their way to our hills are those who have come to call the various Buddhist temples in the Orange/Sullivan County area home. I actually pass the Kadampa Meditation Center in Glen Spey on my way to and from the train each day. The only way you would know the temple is there is the sign on the road, because it is well set back from the main highway, its 82 acres hidden in the pines. Living in Glen Spey, I have come to know the members of the temple as quiet and gentle neighbors. When you first encounter a Buddhist priest or nun, you will notice them by their long orange robes, short cropped hair and pleasant disposition. I have had the chance to speak with many of them as they ride the train to Port Jervis and often offered them rides to the center rather than see them pay an expensive cab fare to a place I am going to pass anyway. They are a diverse group and all have their own story to tell, if you care to take the time to ask and listen. On one trip I met a man who was from London, where he worked for years in the stock market and gave it all up for the life of a Buddhist priest. He was also on a mission; not forgetting his secular roots, he was brought to the Kadampa Center to help build its website and improve its Internet connections. I have met others who were teachers, lawyers and carpenters, etc. in their previous lives, all bringing their particular skills to help improve life at the center. Recently, one cold winter’s night, I saw a group of three nuns and a priest, and couldn’t help noticing they all had foreign accents, since they were quite animated in their conversation. They hailed from Sweden, Germany, Belgium and England. All had wound up on this same train unbeknownst to each other. As we departed the train, I could see the bewildered “where-do-we-go-from-here?” look on their faces. I offered them all a ride; in no time their backpacks were in the bed of my truck and they were piling into the seats. As we drove, someone mentioned that she thought all of New York was like the city. I chuckled to myself and as we were driving through Hawk’s Nest decided to give them a treat. I pulled over, shut off my lights and opened the hatch of my moon roof. I could hear the collective gasp as they all spied the stars above us. It was one of those cold nights we love up here, when you can see the vastness of the night sky and realize how tiny we truly are in relation to it. I turned to look at the smiles on their faces and the sister from Belgium said, “I feel like I am in a space ship!” Now my smile was from ear to ear. As I drove on, they all craned their necks to see the heavens above— how heavenly indeed. We finally reached the center, and they left shaking my hand in turn, saying, “Peace and joy to you, Tom.” So I pass this wish on to you who are reading this column: peace and joy to YOU for a glorious holiday season and the brightest of New Years.

8 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

OBITUARIES JOE MARCEL WOLFF Joe Marcel Wolff, 85, of Narrowsburg, NY, a longtime resident of the area, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2014 with his family by his side. Born in Cologne, Germany, Joe grew up in South Africa and immigrated to the USA in 1948. Joe was married to his wife Joan for forty years until her death in 1995. Much of Joe’s career in the fi lm industry was spent as a cinematographer. He was a member of the Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers and he was appointed by his peers to membership of the Qualifications Committee of the Motion Picture Cameraman’s Union in New York. With a solid background in photographic chemistry and engineering, he pioneered a number of innovations both within and outside of the fi lm industry. Among these was the concept and design of the high-speed sound transfer system, for duplicating magnetic tracks on motion picture prints. For fi lm processing, and magnetic striping applications, he designed the defi nitive constant tension control [US Patent #3,532,282]. For a complete change of pace, he undertook the product development engineering of a hydraulic concrete block machine [US Patent # 3,089,214]. Joe was a contributor to Backstage magazine and a contributing photography editor of the Popular Hobbies magazine. Joe built his home in Narrowsburg in 1972. In 1978 Joe and Joan opened The Emporium in the old Snug Harbor storefront on Main Street. They sold an eclectic stock of jewelry, wools, gifts and sporting goods. Joe was also a member of the New York State Association of Magistrates and served as Town Justice of Tusten. Joe was also a certified New York State Records Management Officer for Sullivan County. In this capacity he authored “The Illustrated Local History” textbook for the 4th grade and wrote the play “Joseph Brant-Thayendanegea.” In later years, when Joe’s interest turned to computers, he authored the “Ten Minute Guide to DOS” and wrote several educational computer programs. In 1999 Joe started what has turned out to be the defi nitive technical resource for classic 35mm rangefi nder cameras in his website YashicaGuy.com. Yashica Guy significantly contributed to a worldwide resurgent interest in these classic cameras. Joe’s expertise on repairs and his invention of a battery adapter has allowed tens of thousands of people in over sixty-five countries to bring their cameras back in use. Right up to his death, Joe fielded thousands of emails a year offering advice on camera repairs and photography techniques. Joe is survived by his son Joe, wife Cheri and grandchildren Emma, Ian and Evan as well as his son Eugene, wife Mary and grandchildren Marcel, Natalie and Eugene. Memorial donations can be made to the Tusten-Cochecton Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library.

MILLER M. FAGLEY Miller M. Fagley, age 97, of Glen Spey, died December 9, 2014, in Frederick, Maryland, where he had been living with his daughter since mid-2013. Born in Tarentum, Pennsylvania in 1917, he was the son of the late Oscar A. and Jennie Mae Fagley. During WWII he served in the U.S. Merchant Marines, Army Transport Service, beginning his career as Carpenter’s Mate on a threemasted schooner, and, when discharged, he was a licensed Second Officer. On D-Day he commanded the landing craft (a ship’s lifeboat) that transported General Robertson of the 2nd Division Rangers onto Omaha Beach under enemy fi re. He was always proud that the general and his staff never got their feet wet. Miller was a charter member of the Lumberland Fire Department, where he served in many different roles, including Chief. He was active in Boy Scout Troop 102, was a member of American Legion Post 1363, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, Port Jervis Lodge of Elks #645 B.P.O.E., and the Deep Hollow Hunting Club. Miller was a master woodcarver, known for his walking sticks with life-like animal heads. He was a crosscountry ski instructor and an ardent bicyclist. He and his wife took many cycling trips as members of the International Bicycle Touring Society and Miller continued to ride into his 90s. Miller was predeceased by his wife Dorothy Schneider in 2001. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Kathy and Bob Dollar of Frederick, Maryland; his grandson, Stephen Dollar of North Carolina; sister-in-law Jane Schneider and brother-in-law Howard Thiele, 11 nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many dear friends whose lives he touched. Services were held on December 16 at Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home. Interment was at Glen Spey Cemetery, Glen Spey, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lumberland Fire Department, 5000 County Route 31, Glen Spey, NY 12737.

DEATH NOTICE Duane A. (“Mike”) Olver Duane A. (“Mike”) Olver of Beach Lake, PA passed peacefully at home on December 12, 2014. He was 85. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 in St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Honesdale with Rev. Kenneth Buckwalter officiating. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Honesdale.

COMMUNITY CURRICULUM ‘Toss Your Hat in the Ring’ HONESDALE, PA — If you’re interested in serving on your school board, borough council or township board, you can learn how to do it at a Penn State Extension workshop titled “Toss your Hat in the Ring” at the Wayne County extension office at 648 Park St. on Thursday, January 29, 2015 from 7 to 9 p.m. The workshop includes an overview of Pennsylvania local government and the responsibilities of a various offices, instructions on how to run, and a panel of local officials who will talk about why they decided to run for office and some of their experi-

ences since they were elected. Registration costs $25/person and you can register at extension.psu.edu/community/ecd/courses/toss-yourhat-in-the-ring. For more information, call Peter Wulfhorst at 570/296-3400. Penn State encourages people with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, call the Wayne County Extension office at 570/253-5970, ext. 4110.

Unitarian service meditates on loving kindness BEACH LAKE, PA — At 10:15 a.m. on Sunday, December 28 at the Berlin Township Community Center the Upper Delaware Unitarian Universalists will have a time of reflection, as Susan Lory leads a meditation on loving

kindness. All are welcome to join the Upper Delaware Unitarian Fellowship and stay afterward for a social time and refreshments. For directions, visit www.uduuf. org/directions.

Contributed photo

Fire department officers sworn in LACKAWAXEN, PA — The new officers for the Lackawaxen Township Volunteer Fire Department for 2015 were sworn in at an induction ceremony on December 12. Seen here, they are Richard Van de Velde, trustee, left; Ben Solowitz, treasurer; Diane Van de Velde, secretary; Richard Krotcha, chief; William Thompson, vice president; and Robert Cocchi, president. At the extreme right is Pike County Commissioner Richard Caridi, conducting the ceremony. The attached photo is from the Induction ceremony of the Lackawaxen Township Volunteer Fire Dept. on December 12, 2014 by Pike County Commissioner Richard Caridi.

Coroner gets special birthday gift

AYNE COUNTY, PA — Edward Howell, Wayne County Coroner, celebrated his 26th birthday on Monday, December 15. He didn’t spend his birthday eating cake. Coroner Howell and his wife, the former Anna Rennekamp welcomed the birth of the first child on this extra special day. The baby boy, named Matthias Edward Howell, arrived at 5:55 p.m. He weighed 8 pounds 14 ounces and his length is 21 inches. The name Matthias is a family name with great meaning. Edward’s fourth greatgrandfather, Captain Matthias Keen, was a prominent Wayne Contributed photo County settler and influential man in the community. He is buried under a huge gristmill stone in the Keen Cemetery, Waymart, where generations of the family are interred. Matthias Keen served as coroner of Wayne County in the 1820s and 1830s. Maybe little Matthias will carry on the family tradition too.

In memory of Clarence Baum who passed away Decemer 7, 1985: We never lose the ones we love For even though they’re gone. Within the heart of those who care Their memory lingers on. In loving memory: Wife: Betty; sons: James and Philip; and all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

THE RIVER REPORTER

NARROWSBURG NEWS

By Jane Luchsinger

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 9

DID YOU KNOW?

By Grace Johansen

Contributed photo

Jessica Ashcraft and Joanna Dutcher’s G.L. Cooke Elementary School classes display their published book.

G.L. Cooke Elementary School: ‘Snow Day Fun’

ONTICELLO, NY — Jessica Ashcraft and Joanna Dutcher’s second grade class at the George L. Cooke Elementary school had the rare opportunity to have their writings published in a book. A company, Student Treasures Publishing, contacted the teachers and offered them an opportunity for the students to write a story and have it published as a book. The students brainstormed book ideas and then voted. They wrote about fun activities to do on a snow day and titled the book “Snow Day Fun.” Each student had his or her own part of the story and all created their own illustrations. Parents were provided an opportunity to purchase individual copies. Ashcraft and Dutcher are very proud of the dedication and hard work of their students.

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hristmas and Hanukkah, 2014 are nearly just a memory. All the preparation, the activities associated, and the spirit have ended yet one more time, but really why should the spirit end? Yes, we need something to make the holidays special, but that should be the activities, special meals, out-of-the-ordinary gift giving. But spirit is something that doesn’t have to be extinguished because the holidays have passed. Simple smiles go a long way when passing even strangers in the halls of your workplace or shopping in Peck’s. Giving to those less fortunate may continue through our local food bank. It’s easy to keep the spirit of the season if you only try. While you let those spirits soar, look up when you are outside. The eagles have been flying about the river, catching their holiday meals. There are still dedicated fishermen on the river as well. Here it is the end of December, and we have been lucky with the weather even though we have had some pretty cold days. No terrible snow storms, and the predictions are good for the rest of the year. We will have to wait and see what 2015 brings, but let’s be thankful that we have an excellent highway department ready to keep us moving under all winter weather conditions. By the way, someone inquired if the liquid used to control the icing and snowy conditions on the Flats was fracking fluid. The answer is, definitely not! The highway department only uses liquid on the Flats, and it is not fracking waste. Fortunately, Highway Superintendent Glenn Swendsen and the highway men are sensitive to our environment and would not want to contribute to river pollution. Just one more reason to thank the staff of the highway department. While we are thanking those that we often take for granted, let me take this opportunity to thank you for reading Narrowsburg News and at the same time wish you a happy and healthy New Year. Keep smiling.

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Contributed photo

This old-fashioned card was dated 1913. Greeting cards in that era were produced as postcards and were always artistically drawn. I hope this little angel brings a smile and helps to wish you all a peaceful and happy holiday. From the card collection of Ruth Behling.

Learning & Growing Child Care Center Play, Learn and Grow Together Tammy Haass | Melanie Jay 60 Milanville Road (P.O. Box 137) Beach Lake, PA 18405 | 570-729-7853 Email: learnandgrowccc@gmail.com

10 â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

ORGANIZATIONAL NEWS

Contributed photo

The Hawley Silk Mill will host the second annual AuthorFest on February 14 from 9 am to 3 p.m.

Authors sought for AuthorFest HAWLEY, PA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; After a successful debut in 2014, the second annual AuthorFest at the Hawley Silk Mill will expand its hours and program. On Saturday, February 14, 2015, the Silk Mill doors will open for two workshops of interest to budding authors as well as the general public. Lindsay Barrett George, an awardwinning author/illustrator of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books and White Mills resident, will moderate the panels of authors discussing the mechanics of book publishing. From 9 to 10:15 a.m., the topic will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nuts and Bolts of Publishing,â&#x20AC;? and from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nuts and Bolts of Self-Publishing.â&#x20AC;? At 12 noon the panelists will move to the main lobby to join other authors who will be looking forward to discussing and autographing their books, which will be for sale in a bookshop set up for the event. Some authors who appeared at AuthorFest in 2014 will be returning, but there is room for new authors as well. Application forms are available from yannster@ptd. net or 570/253-5468. The deadline for applications is February 1, 2015.

Contributed photo

Grey Towers volunteers honored MILFORD, PA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bill Dauer, acting director of Grey Towers, left, signs a memorandum of understanding with President Fred Guendel of the Grey Towers Heritage Association at an event honoring the volunteers who donate their time to the national historic site. The memorandum formalizes the relationship between the two organizations and will assist in the already strong and productive partnership. Visit www. greytowers.org or www.fs.fed.us/gt.

THE RIVER REPORTER

CAS solicits proposals LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Catskill Art Society is currently accepting artist proposals for its 2016 exhibition season, for its flagship space spanning three main galleries. Proposals will be welcomed from now through the deadline of February 1, 2015. All proposals are reviewed by an outside jury panel of independent curators that changes each year. All work will be considered for solo and group shows at the recommendation of the jury panel. CAS will notify all applicants by the end of April. Proposals can be delivered to the CAS Arts Center at 48 Main St. during regular gallery hours or mailed to CAS at P.O. Box 991, Livingston Manor, NY 12758 by the postmark deadline of February 1. Late applications and proposals without all required materials cannot be considered. CAS is also accepting submissions on a rolling basis for exhibitions in its new Elevator Gallery, an experimental exhibition space that will feature small works, installations, short art films, and other visual curiosities in six shows each year. The space will eventually make way for an elevator to our second floor when renovations are finished to create even more room for arts and culture at CASâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;hence the name. Visit www.catskillartsociety. org/submissions.

PCHS bus trip to DC Lincoln exhibit MILFORD, PA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Lincoln Flag of the Pike County Historical Society (PCHS), stained with the blood of President Abraham Lincoln, is headed to The Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theater Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s museum to be part of the Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hallmark museum exhibition, Silent Witnesses: Artifacts of the Lincoln Assassination. The exhibit, which will run from March 23 to May 25, 2015, will return a priceless collection of items that were in the theatre or carried by Abraham Lincoln the night of his assassination to the Center for Education and Leadership,514 Tenth Street, NW, Washington DC. The PCHS is organizing a bus trip to the exhibit, including a two-night stay at Annapolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marriott Waterfront and a day in Washington, DC. The bus will leave The Columns Museum on April 19, 2015 and return on April 21. The cost for the trip is $550 per person, double occupancy, and includes transportation, twonight stay, breakfast, dinner at Gordon Biersch, and admission to Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theater, Peterson House and Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theater Society Museum for an exclusive tour. Also included is admission to a show at Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (balcony seating), lunch on the way home and a tour of the Naval Academy. The final payment for the trip must be in by March 1. All payments are nonrefundable, but can be transferred. Call 570/296-8126 or email pikemuse@ptd.net. All proceeds from the trip benefit the Columns Museum Collections Stabilization Fund.

UDC design handbooks available NARROWSBURG, NY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sullivan Renaissance awarded a 2014 Environmental Initiatives Grant of $300 to the Upper Delaware Council, Inc. (UDC) to enable the non-profit organization to print copies of its recently updated Design Handbook for the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River. The handbook provides guidance to undertake construction along the federallydesignated Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River in ways that ensure harmony with the existing river landscape. It is geared toward builders, developers and landowners planning construction activity, as well as local officials in charge of reviewing development plans. The UDC worked with W Design of Barryville in August and September 2014 to graphically transform the Design Handbook that was originally produced in 1990. The handbook is available for on-line consultation on the publications page of the UDCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.upperdelawarecouncil.org. To request a hard copy, contact the UDC office located at 211 Bridge St., P.O. Box 192, Narrowsburg, NY 12764; phone 845/252-3022; or e-mail info@upperdelawarecouncil.org.

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Eat, Drink & Be Merry.

A cup of holiday cheer Drinking local is a joy of the season

Antler Ridge Winery

EGION — Just as fine food has the power to exalt any holiday celebration, so do fine alcoholic beverages (in suitable moderation). And just as we in the Upper Delaware River Valley are blessed with a variety of excellent local food sources, we also have quite a few providers of drink, from spirits to wine to beer and ale. We contacted a number of the local distilleries, breweries and wineries and asked them for their recommendations for your holiday parties. Here’s what they came up with. And if you prefer non-alcoholic drinks—or are the designated driver this year—Laura Silverman covers that base deliciously in her column this week on page 14. Wassail!

Lake Wallenpaupack, 2575 Rte. 6, Suite 3, Hawley, PA 18428 570/390-4444, www. antlerridgewinery.com

Holiday Red Vixen Sangria Juice of 1 orange Juice of 1 lemon 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar (10X or confectionary)

Catskill Distilling Company

Ice

2037 NY Rte. 17 B, Bethel, NY 12720 845/583-8569, www.catskilldistilling.com

Contributed photo

1 orange, thinly sliced 1 lemon, thinly sliced 1 bottle of Antler Ridge Red Vixen 750 ml – chilled

For New Year’s Eve, Catskill Distilling Company will host a New Year’s Eve party with the Albi Beluli Band. Look for updated details on its website.

Lemonade – 3/4 cup

Stir juices with sugar in pitcher; when sugar has dissolved, add a few cubes of ice, sliced fruit and wine; marinate for 1 hour and then add lemonade to taste and add more ice.

Maple Old Fashioned 2 oz Catskill Distilling Company Most Righteous Bourbon 3/4 oz Catskill Mountain Sugar House Maple Syrup 1 piece lemon

Contributed photo

Bootlegger vodka or gin combine with a seasonal favorite, cranberries, to make a drink with holiday spirit.

Prohibition Distillery

1 piece orange 2 dashes bitters Muddle 1 piece lemon and 1 piece of orange with bitters and maple syrup. Add ice, pour bourbon. Shake quickly. Top off with splash of soda water, add cherry for garnish.

145 Rockland Rd., Roscoe, NY 12776 607/290-5002, roscoebeercompany.com

Roscoe Brown & Amber

The Christmas Collins

Half pint of Roscoe Beer Company Amber Ale, combined with half pint Roscoe Beer Company Brown Ale. There’s nothing like a Catskill Brewery Nightshine Black Lager on a cold Catskills’ night.

1 oz lemon juice 1 oz cranberry simple syrup* Club soda

Contributed photo

Roscoe Beer Company

10 Union St, Roscoe, NY 12776 607/498-4511, www.prohibitiondistillery.com

2 oz Bootlegger 21 Vodka or Bootlegger 21 Gin

Catskill Distilling’s bourbon makes a Most Righteous combination with maple syrup for a special holiday treat.

Antler Ridge Winery’s Red Vixen provides a refreshing, citrusy refreshment when the party heats up.

To make cranberry simple syrup, put in a pot on the stove 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water and 2 cups cranberries. Heat to a simmer and stir frequently. It takes about 10 minutes. Strain and let cool. Combine with other ingredients.

Contributed photo

This mixture of Roscoe Beer Company’s brown and amber ales features roasted chocolate notes, making it the perfect drink to pair with your holiday dessert. Continued on page 12

12 â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

HOLIDAY CHEER Continued from page 11

Contributed photo

Eminence Road Wineryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2012 Seneca Lake Chardonnay makes an elegant party pairing with a good local cheese.

Eminence Road Winery Photo by Patti Zins

Eminence Road Farm Winery 3734 Eminence Rd., Long Eddy, NY 12760 845/887-6280. eminenceroad.com

The Naughty Santa is one of three special concoctions Callicoon Brewing Company offers for your holiday cheer.

Callicoon Brewing Company

A Seneca Lake Chardonnay/local cheese pairing Eminence Road Winery recommends a glass of crisp, lightly sparkling 2012 Seneca Lake chardonnay paired with some Tonjes Rambler or a good aged cheddar from the Windy Hill Cheese Shop. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also great as an apĂŠritif in the afternoon or served with creamy sauces and soups.

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16 Upper Main St., Callicoon, NY 12723 845/887-5500, callicoonbrewing.com For New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve, Callicoon Brewing Company is having a New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve party from 9 to 12 midnight, with Doug Rogers & the Backseat Drivers. There will be no cover charge, and they will have a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, with party favors and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres.

Naughty Santa Pour a half pint Callicoon Brown Cow Porter into a rimmed glass with green or red sugar, then add a generous shot of Fireballâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a very popular drink this season.

Rudolphâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Revenge Half pint of Callicoon Brown Cow Porter; add a shot of Red Stag.

Christmas Candy Combine a half pint of Callicoon Brown Cow Porter with a shot of butterscotch schnapps.

Continued on page 13

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DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 13

THE RIVER REPORTER

HOLIDAY CHEER

Many of the local facilities that produce spirits, beer or wine also make fun places to visit, like the Catskill Brewery (right), Callicoon Brewing Company (below) and Catskill Distilling Company (see page 11).

Continued from page 12

Bashakill Vinyards 1131 S Rd, Wurtsboro, NY 12790 (845) 888-5858, www.bashakillvinyards.com

Holiday Heron Mulled Wine

Contributed photo

2 bottles of Bashakill’s Blue Heron 2 cinnamon sticks 10-12 cloves 1/4 cup organic sugar Pinch of ginger Combine, heat and serve

Contributed photo Bashakill Vinyards’ Blue Heron Wine makes an ideal base for a hot mulled wine when it’s cold outside.

Photo by Patti Zins

Contributed photo

Craft beers even go well with dessert. Celebrate the season with a Brandenburg Bakery’s Gingerbread house paired with Nightshine Black Lager or Freak Tractor Wild Yeast Beer. Seen here are Catskill Brewery’s brewmaster Ben Brotman and head of sales Dana Bull in its tasting room.

Catskill Brewery 672 Old Rte. 17, Livingston Manor, NY 845/439-1232, catskillbrewery.com Catskill Brewery notes that craft beers not only pair well with a wide variety of cheeses, meats and hearty foods—they can also make great cooking ingredients. Here’s one of their recipes:

Braised Guinea hen with Ball Lightning Pils Wash and pat dry a Mauer’s Mountain Farm’s guinea hen. Rub it with olive oil and generously sprinkle with salt and pepper. Put hen in pan with onions, peppers, garlic and spices. Add 6 oz. Ball Lightning Pils, lightly cover with foil and roast for 15 minutes at 425 degrees. Reduce heat to 350 degrees for another 20-30 minutes. Serve with a cold glass of Ball Lightning.

14 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

RELISH EVERY DAY

By LAURA SILVERMAN

Wayne County’s 1st Authentic

A dry season: celebrating without spirits

hough few would argue with the notion that the holidays can drive you to drink, there are those who make it through them without a single tipple. Pity the poor soul who has to nurse a glass of tepid seltzer while the rest of the party is quaffing frosty craft beers and champagne punch. At this time of year, when the festivities are all about fellowship, no one should feel left out, so the best hosts put some muscle into creative nonalcoholic options. This means drinks neither cloying nor insipid but refreshing, nuanced and thoughtfully presented. Done right, these “dry” beverages can have the balance and depth of the best cocktails. If you’re willing to go in search of a few unusual ingredients (online resources abound), I highly recommend making your own tonic syrup. Both sweet and bitter, it’s packed with citrusy and aromatic notes from lemongrass, lavender, cinchona bark, spices and a little citric acid for that mouth-puckering tartness. Boiled in water, then steeped for a couple of days, the ingredients meld into a complex brew. Combined with sugar syrup, the result is terrific with flat or sparkling water, with or without booze. I always recommend taking advantage of what’s in season—if not locally then around the country—and winter means apples, a variety of citrus and pomegranates. If you have a juicer, then why not present inspired combinations of fresh, flavorful (and incidentally healthy) ingredients? Some of my favorites include pineapple, cucumber and celery; orange, carrot and ginger; and apple, pomegran-

ate and jalapeño. Serve these as intense shots or diluted with water. Because warming drinks are always popular at this time of year, it’s a good idea to have a variation on the hot toddy in your repertoire. I make my “Not Toddy” with a base of smoky lapsang souchong tea, combined with apple cider, honey, lemon and spices. It’s warming even without the whisky and really hits the spot on a snowy evening. Syrups are one of the best things to have on hand for impromptu entertaining as they take up little space, keep for a while in the refrigerator and allow you to offer a range of choices to your abstaining guests. A one-to-one ratio of sugar to water makes a classic simple syrup and can be infused with a wide range of herbs and spices, from black peppercorns to vanilla bean to red chile. Fresh ginger and lime zest is a delicious pairing, and chai spices—cardamom, star anise, fennel, clove, nutmeg—make a really sophisticated and intriguing syrup to mix with sparkling water or even iced tea. There’s even a variation on this syrup formula that requires no cooking at all. Simply juice any of the season’s delicious citrus, combine that with an equal quantity of sugar and shake it all up in a jar until the sugar dissolves completely. This keeps the flavor of the fruit bright and pure. Greet someone with a tall, frosty glass of sparkling water, tinted pink with grapefruit syrup and a handful of ruby red pomegranate seeds, and let the celebration begin. Continued on page 15

Photos by Laura Silverman

The author’s Smokin’ Not Toddy is made with smoky lapsang souchong tea, apple cider, honey, lemon and spices.

Mexican Restaurant VOTED THE BEST DESSERTS & BEST AUTHENTIC MEAL BY RIVER REPORTER READERS

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#2 Beaver Brook Rd., Yulan, NY 12792

845-468-5772 • 845-557-6979

Happy Holidays!

We are open New year’s Eve and we do a New Year’s day Buffet. Please call for a reservation. Special Holiday menu featuring Steaks, seafood, chicken and pasta dishes.

Regular & Special Menus featuring steaks, seafood, chicken & pasta dishes Monday Night 3-Course Dinner for $12.95 • Every Thursday is German cuisine night Find us on facebook.com/konradskitchenandgrill for menus, picutres and more! Dinner Hours: Monday, Thursday and Sunday 5pm-9pm; Friday and Saturday 5pm-10pm Restaurant, Lounge, Banquet Room and Catering Available

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 15

THE RIVER REPORTER

Glass — wine. bar. kitchen.

WITHOUT SPIRITS

Tonic Syrup Makes about 6 cups

Continued from page 14

Small Plates Ideal for Sharing.

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Lemon-Rosemary Spritzer Makes about 2 cups, enough for 8 drinks 2 Tablespoons lemon zest 3 sprigs rosemary, plus additional for garnish 1 1/3 cups fresh lemon juice (about 9 lemons) 1 cup water 1 cup sugar Wash lemons thoroughly and dry. Using a microplane grater, remove 2 tablespoons lemon zest and set aside. Juice lemons and set juice aside. Bring water and sugar to a gentle simmer in a large saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add lemon zest and rosemary sprigs. Turn off heat, cover and let stand until completely cool. Strain and discard solids. Combine with fresh lemon juice and stir to mix well. To serve, fill a tall glass with crushed ice. Add 1/4 cup syrup and top off with sparkling water. Stir and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

4 cups water 1/4 cup powdered cinchona bark 1/4 cup citric acid 3 limes, strips of zest only 3 lemons, strips of zest only 1 grapefruit, strips of zest only 1 cup chopped lemongrass 9 whole allspice berries 6 whole cardamom pods 2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds 1 Tablespoon dried lavender 4 wild lime leaves (aka kaffir lime) 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt 3-4 cups rich simple syrup (two parts sugar to one water) In a covered saucepan, bring all ingredients except the simple syrup to a boil and reduce heat immediately. Simmer on low for 30 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool fully. Transfer to a carafe or jar and chill for two days.   Pass through a superfine strainer or cheesecloth. Return to the carafe and refrigerate for a day or two, allowing sediment to accumulate on the bottom. When the layer of sediment seems stable, gently decant the clearer liquid on top without disturbing the sediment “mud.” You should have about 3 cups at this point; add to this liquid an equal measure of simple syrup, mixing well. Funnel into a clean bottle and refrigerate.

Smokin’ Not Toddy Makes 1 drink 1 Tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1 clove 1 star anise 5 ounces hot brewed lapsang souchong tea 2 ounces apple cider Lemon peel twist, for garnish Combine honey, lemon juice and spices in a heatproof glass or mug. Pour in the hot tea and apple cider and stir well. Garnish with lemon peel twist.

You can mix your own blend of aromatics for an invigorating home-made tonic.

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16 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

Merrymaking

THE RIVER REPORTER

Helping Hands

Music on a winter night

Kiwanis and builders donate toys

Contributed photo

Contributed photos

SOUTH FALLSBURG, NY — Fallsburg Junior and Senior High School Choral Director Colleen Barber, surrounded by the school’s Select Chorus, thanks people that offered special services to make possible the evening of music the choruses and band provided in their winter concert on December 1.

The band music offered by the Fallsburg Junior and Senior High School music department on December 11 included a composition of “For the Beauty of the Earth,” selections from “The Nutcracker Suite” and a Russian piece titled “Salvation is Created.” Band director John Lusk directed the junior and senior bands.

Oshogatsu New Year’s Eve celebration

Melissa Velazquez, RN, of Crystal Run’s neurology division, left, and Christina Curtis, patient services department, gather toys that have been donated from the oncology and neurology divisions.

Crystal Run provides holiday cheer ROCK HILL, NY — Crystal Run Healthcare has helped to bring joy to many local children and families in need this holiday season. The staff at Crystal Run purchased and donated toys and other gift items including books, bicycles, dolls, games, teddy bears and clothing. “Angel” gifts, which were purchased by employees in Crystal Run’s Orange County offices, were donated to the Salvation Army of Middletown as part of their Angel Tree program. “Snowmen” gifts were purchased by Crystal Run employees in the Rock Hill and Liberty offices and were donated to the United Way of Sullivan County as part of their Project Care Snowmen.

MONTICELLO, NY — The Monticello Kiwanis Club recently held its holiday party at Blue Horizon Diner. In lieu of exchanging gifts among those in attendance, the members opted to bring an unwrapped toy or game that would be donated to United Way of Sullivan County for distribution to local children in need. The club, as well as individual Kiwanis members, also donated money to be used by the Robert J. Kaiser Middle School Builders Club for purchasing items at Wal-Mart for the United Way Project Care Program. The Builders Club members donned Christmas caps and reindeer antlers and traveled by school bus to Wal-Mart, where they picked out items that someone in their own age range (12 to 14 years old) would enjoy, since they were advised that there was a need for toys and craft items for that age category. Kaytee Warren, United Way chief professional officer, received the toys at the United Way Building. The Builders Club members posed for pictures with all their donated “loot” and enjoyed birthday cupcakes and beverages in celebration of Oefelein’s birthday. Warren thanked all for their generosity to assure that no child is forgotten during the holiday season.

CALLICOON INDOOR MARKET Sundays, 11am-2pm November 23 & 30, every Sunday in December, January-April (see website for dates) Delaware Youth Center

Port Jervis artist to show at Lords Valley Gallery LORDS VALLEY, PA — Chris Kroup, artist, designer/craftsman opens the 2015 gallery season with a colorful display of his recent works of art coming to the Gallery at Chant Realtors, 631 Rte. 739. This first solo show will feature a New Year’s wine and cheese meetthe-artist reception on Saturday, January 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the gallery. The artist from Port Jervis, Contributed photo NY specializes Painting by Chris Kroup in free-flowing abstract painting on aluminum panels. Kroup will also have selected three-dimensional works on view. The show runs from January 2 to February 26, 2015. For directions or weatherrelated information call 570/775-7337.

URLEYVILLE, NY — The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop will hold auditions for its Valentine cabaret, “Love Songs and Songs of Love,” on Saturday, December 27, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Sullivan County Cultural Center (formerly the Sullivan County Museum). The show dates will be March 13 and 14, 2015. Bring sheet music of the song you will sing. For further information, call Jim at 845/798-4971, or email SCDWemail@aol.com.

+++++++++++++++++

OPEN RAIN, SHINE OR SNOW 866-270-2015 +++++++++++++++++

Contributed photo

Kaytee Warren, Chief Professional Officer of United Way, left; Jane Sorensen, Kiwanis president and Builders Club Liaison; William Oefelein, builders club advisor, behind them; and Builders Club students display donated toys and games.

www.SullivanCountyFarmersMarkets.org

www.FACEBOOK.com/SCFMA

g Comm r Livin un o i it en Located in a beautiful

rural setting, we are a convenient drive from Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, New York and New Jersey. Amenities and services include private bath, medication management, nutritious meals, housekeeping, daily laundry, planned social outings & events. Call for information or stop in for a tour.

Fresh Fruit & Veggies, Meat, Milk, Cheese, Eggs, Baked Goods, Jams & Jellies, Maple, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Prepared Foods, Wine, Pasta, Potted Plants, Fresh Cut Flowers, Skincare Products, Artisan Wares & Much More!

HONESDALE, PA — Seiso Paul Cooper, Sensei, and the Two Rivers Zen Community invite the public to the ringing of the temple bell on New Year’s Eve, at the Court Street Zendo in Honesdale. It will take place from 8 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31 at 926 Court St. Oshogatsu is the Japanese Buddhist celebration through which we banish the “108 troublesome desires of humankind,” to begin the New Year afresh. The temple bell will be rung 108 times. The community will follow with a traditional waka writing party, in the Imperial style, and write the first poems of the New Year with champagne and hot sake. (Waka is a traditional Japanese five-line, 31-syllable form, that is easy to learn. These poems are written and read aloud in Japan on each New Year’s Day.) Bell ringing will start at 8:30 p.m., followed by the party at 9 p.m. Call 570/251-7800

Auditions for Valentine cabaret

For Peace of Mind and Quality of Life 150 Noble Lane, Bethany, PA 18431

570-251-3463

www.bethanyseniorliving.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Happy

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 17

THE RIVER REPORTER

Think Day’s Carriage House for your special event cakes. The

H t

H appy oliday

the commun ll in it y a o

Lisa’s... Not Just Antiques! has all your Christmas needs.

Lisa’s is bursting at the seems with beautiful dinner and serving dishes for your holiday table.b Pots & pans, baking dishes & pie plates, serving utensils, silverware and even sterling silver.b Crystal, lead crystal and cut glass.b Fine wine glasses, vintage glasses and bar-ware.

Lisa’s has all your Christmas decorating needs...a large selection of Santa’s, snowmen, penguin(s), wreaths, garland, professional decorating branches, wrapping paper and lots of ornaments.b

Live Christmas Trees Starting

Monday December 1

Lisa’s has a unique selection of collectibles, antique tools, ȴshing and hunting items.b

AND EVERYTHING IS 50% OFF.

Gold, sterling silver jewelry and furniture is 35% OFF. b New merchandise is added everyday as Lisa is working on 3 estates...

Lisa’s is located at 355 Beach Lake Highway, (Rt. 652) Honesdale, Pa. 18431 570-352-3500; open 6 days a week; Tuesday by chance;b10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. bLike Us! on Facebook/ Lisa’s Not Just Antiques!

We specialize in wedding cakes, but offer cakes for any occasion or none at all!

RESTAURANT • BAR • MOTEL

Think Day’s for pies, rolls,

Barryille, NY 12719

Quality baked goods for over 60 years.

(845) 557-0400

123 Main Street • Honesdale, PA 570-253-1660

TheCarriageHouseNY.com

cookies and breads.

Happy Holidays Happy Holidays!

Carini Ristoranti BRICK OVEN PIZZA & PASTA

LORDS VALLEY SHOPPING PLAZA 641 ROUTE 739 LORDS VALLEY, PA 18428

Mobile Veterinary Services

Phone: 845-807-8380 • Fax: 845-445-8972

570-257-0444

Joseph A. D’Abbraccio, D.V.M www.catskillvetservices.com

Services Provided all over Sullivan County

Happy Holidays!

Bethel Animal Clinic 29 Dr. Duggan Rd., Bethel, NY STEVEN J. AGOSTON, O.D., D.V.M.

Medical • Surgical • Weekend Emergency

845-583-4117

I am keeping very busy being a Guardian Angel to all my family and friends. Can you believe it? 5 years! Wishing my sister Marie, her kids, my family, and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Remember: Keep CHRIST in Christmas! I love and miss you all, Jean Kerrigan

Merry Christmas from all of us at

1681 Forestburgh Road, Glen Spey, NY

845-856-6180

Bob Peters & Family Plumbing & Heating Inc. 845-482-5452

Season’s Greetings

Carini

from everyone at

Pizza • Pasta • Subs • Salads

COCHECTON MILLS, INC.

Fresh Feeds • Fertilizer • Farm • Supplies Cochecton, NY NY Phone: 845-932-8282 • PA Phone: 570-224-4144

Happy appy Holidays o ays too all! a Barryville Exterminating Service Integrated Pest Management Serving NY & PA

845-557-6762 Happy Holidays from the sta΍ at

PAUL D. SALZBERG, M.D. 845-887-6112

Wishing all a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year

Cucina & Pizzeria

Craig, Nancy, Will & B.J.

BILL CASE POLARIS

203 6th Street, Milford, PA 18337

CARINI Pizzeria & Restaurant Pizza • Pasta • Subs • Salads 112 Kirk Road, Peck’s Plaza, Narrowsburg, NY

DIRLAM BROS. LUMBER CO., INC.

250 Sunrise Ave., - Honesdale, PA - 570-253-3540 • 234 N Main St., - Pittston, PA - 570-654-3328 Rt 739 - Lords Valley, PA - 570-775-0598 • Oak St - Narrowsburg, NY - 845-252-3955 Stone Dock Rd - Shohola, PA - 570-559-7511 229 Mt Cobb Hwy - Hamlin PA, 18427 - 570-689-4071

Greentown Agway

PROMPT DELIVERY AVAILABLE

RT 507 & BrinkHill Rd - Greentown, PA - 570-676-9860

Designer Kitchens

1 Commercial Street, Honesdale, PA 570-253-6600 www.dirlams.com

z z FRANK SMITH & SONS Happy Holidays from all of us at

Established Since 1961

WELL DRILLING • PUMPS & WATER SYSTEMS SERVICE & REPAIR

D. R. BLUHM INSURANCE AGENCY

871 Main St. Honesdale, PA 18431

Season's Greetings

+ AMERICAN 1 + ELECTRIC, LLC 1 Factory Certi¿ed Trained Technicians

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

Serving Sullivan County, NY & Northeastern PA for over 30 years

LICENSED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

www.AmericanElectricOnline.com (845)932-8111 • (845)583-1015 • PA (570)251-9990 www.generatorsunlimitedonline.com

A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy and Healthy New Year to our family and friends we love you all.

130 Matt Smith Road • Cochecton, NY 12726

845-252-6642

SERVING THE TRI-STATE AREA • FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED

and A Happy and Healthy New Year

COCHECTON OIL, INC. Heating Oil. Kerosene. Propane

845-932-8483

Merry Christmas in Heaven We love you and Miss you

Rotary Driller and/or Pounder Driller

Senior Living Community 150 Noble Lane, Bethany, PA 18431 570-251-3463

FRITZ BROS. WELL DRILLING

570-253-0191

Happy Holidays! Shaffers Hardware

Merry Christmas

Happy Holidays!

570-251-9100 160 Grandview Ave. Honesdale, PA

BOOM TRUCK & FORK LIFT SERVICE

On this joyous day, we extend to our friends and neighbors, the wish for peace and happiness. And a heartfelt thank you to all.

570-253-2660 Cliff Street & Route 6, Honesdale, PA

Dowling Family Eye Care

OPEN 7 DAYS

Peaceful and Joyous Holiday Season!

from Ed and Doreen Kraus and Kraus Printing 845-252-6653

A Happy and Healthy New Years From Lisa Dowling and

845-252-3338 The staff and residents of Bethany Village wish you a

Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas &

570-296-2554 Monday - Thursday 11am to 9pm Friday & Saturday 11am to 10pm Sunday 12pm to 9pm Closed Tuesday

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 19

Welcome Lake, PA • 570-729-7402

Bisland Insuance Agency

Happy Holidays from

18 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

Eileen Ɔ Tommy Hennessy

Maria, Pat, Gregory and Geoffrey

Happy Holidays

20 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

Happy Holidays to all from the Justus Family! Justus Automotive

Happy appy Holidays o i ays & Happy appy New ew Year ear

Main Street • Jeffersonville, NY

Ken’s Automotive Service

845-482-4815

Happy Holidays JS Electric Jim & Jean Sackett

845-252-7461 Merry Christmas to all our friends from the

Hessling Family Four Generations of Funeral Service

428 Main Street Honesdale, PA 570-253-1190

800-HNB-9515 • www.hnbbank.com • Member FDIC

Happy Holidays Visit us in Honesdale (733 Main Street & Route 6 Plaza), Forest City, Montdale, Lake Wallenpaupack, Lackawaxen, Hamlin, Kingston, Lakewood and Eynon!

Happy Holidays!

from all of us at

20 West Main Street. Port Jervis NY 845-856-3770

Happy Holidays! Jefferson Pharmacy 4892 State Route 52 Jeffersonville, NY 12748

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-7pm Sat. 9am-3pm | Sun. closed Phone: 845-482-5720 Fax: 845-482-5771

Maria Neumann Pharmacist

Stop by and check out our selection of boxed Christmas Cards AND Photo Kiosk for your Digital Prints & more!

This Christmas Day remember that God, our Father, not the government, gave us life. Do we thank him or do we ignore Him?

In loving memory of John H. Eschenberg Blessed be God forever

Happy Holidays to all and our blessings for a wonderful new year.

GOLDEN FISH ART GALLERY Broad Street, Milford, PA 570-296-0413

Serving the 570-685 exchange since 1905 Long Distance •Internet Service • Predator DSL Voice Mail • Caller ID • Residential Predator Bundles PO Box 8 •Rowland, PA • 570-685-7111 www.LTIS.net

We wish you peace and joy this holiday season

Thank you to all our loyal customers and friends!

J. Tigue Auto Sales Pre-Owned, Clean, Warranted Used Cars & Trucks 101 Prospect Street (Rt 6) • Hawley, PA 570-226-6450

Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year from I N C

Since 1964 Geothermal Drilling • Pumps and Supplies • Sales and Service

570-729-7870 • 570-253-0679 Fax: 570-729-8966 408 Fallsdale Road • Tyler Hill, PA 18469 Jerry & Ed

Seasons Greetings & Happy Holidays from the staff Krissy, Cindy, Craig & Nikki

GBI, GEORGE BURKLE, INC. GBI INSURANCE

General Insurance gbi@hvcbiz.rr.com

P. O. Box 218 • CALLICOON 845-887-4060 • Fax: 845-887-4678 P. O. Box 175 • NARROWSBURG 845-252-6697 • Fax: 845-252-3940

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 21

THE RIVER REPORTER

NATURE'S GRACE HEALTH FOODS & DELI

LETTERS HOME

By Zac Stuart-Pontier

Natural Foods • Full Line of Supplements & Vitamins Hoagies & Take-Out Lunches (Also Vegetarian) Fresh Juices • Special Diet Products

Transitions

947 Main Street, Honesdale, PA • 570-253-3469

CALLICOON THEATER A L L

D I G I T A L

Adults $9 - Children $6 • Mon & Mat Adults $7 • Children $6 (Unless otherwise indicated) • We accept cash only

Fri. Dec. 26 - Thurs. Jan. 1

THE HOBBIT: BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES PG-13 Mon thru Fri, 7:30; Sat & Sun 2 & 7:30 Coming: Unbroken

845-887-4460 www.callicoontheater.com Callicoon, N.Y. Lake Huntington Fire Company

We’ll BRAVE the SNOW & ICE for you ... If you’ll come “TAKE OUT” Our

Chicken BBQ!

New Year’s Day • Thursday Jan 1, 2015 Take Out Only - $10 each 3pm til ?? BBQ Chicken, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Cranberry Sauce, Roll with Butter & Dessert See a ¿reman for ticket or Contact Betty @ 932-8378 or RuthAnne @ 932-8514

’m on the set of “Bleed for This,” the new boxing movie I am cutting. A large ring is set up in the center of the convention center in Providence, RI. There are a thousand extras scattered around the arena in strategic places so on screen the arena will appear packed to the brim. It’s a little odd in person, but magic through the camera. The two actors (one a real fighter) circle each other throwing punch after punch. The director huddles behind the monitor, watching the choreographed punches with indelible scrutiny. They must be captured at the perfect angle to seem real. “Cut, let’s reset and go again.” He bounds into the ring to make a few tweaks. Take after take from different angle after angle; it will be up to me to stitch them all together. I am unbelievably excited to be working on something new; I’ve spent the past four years working on the same true crime miniseries. Now called “The Jinx,” it is slated to premiere on HBO in February. It’s been a long road to completion, and we are currently putting the finishing touches on all six episodes. What began as something I slaved over in a tiny room is about to go out into the world and have its own life. It will be amazing to see how it fares. I’ve been living, breathing and talking about this documentary for what seems like eternity, and so it’s equal parts refreshing, exciting and nerve wracking to be starting something new. Though to be honest, I’m very much looking forward to working out a different editing muscle. The differences between editing a documentary and a narrative feature are huge. It’s practically a different job. There is no script in a documentary, and the editor’s role is something like that of a writer: how to structure

At Mason Agency, Our Staff Will Give You ATTITUDE. . . Good Attitude That Is!!

“I am very pleased with the attitudes of your employees. I am very happy with how fast I was able to get a quote.” Cory Rake, Long Eddy J. N. MASON AGENCY, INC Monticello: 855-498-9339 or 845-794-3260 Hancock: 1-800-448-1273 No Lizards. No Bimbos. No Talking Pigs. Just Great Service From Friends & Neighbors Who Care!

the piece becomes this elusive animal you are constantly chasing. There’s a freedom to that, but it’s also insanely difficult. In a narrative there is a roadmap: the script. The story has long been figured out. It’s clear what is supposed to go where and how the film should unfold. Here the editor’s role is more about turning up the volume on everything. Making what is inherently there better, crafting performances, revealing the information within the scenes. Both require brutal honesty and undeniable support. In the background over the past four years the film edit world has shifted. Back in 2011 when I started “The Jinx,” many young editors were using Final Cut Pro. Since then, Apple has rebooted the software into something much less professionally friendly and most editors stopped using it. Unfortunately, since “The Jinx” was so sprawling we were handcuffed to continuing to use Final Cut. As I began to prepare for “Bleed for This,” I wondered if I should continue to use an outdated software that I am very good at, or throw caution to the winds and learn a new system? Eventually I decided to cut on Avid. Now, I know how to use the Avid; it’s actually what I learned on, and I’ve even taught it in classes at NYU. But on Final Cut my fingers are basically extensions of my brain. I can move things around at lightning speed. (Ten years of using a program will do that.) On Avid my hands feel large and clunky. I’m forced to make a translation between what I want to accomplish and seeing it happen on screen. My brain thinks, “Make this shorter!” and my hands take a few seconds to do so, though every day is faster and faster and it has been fun to watch that happening. And so I sit currently feeling like a stranger in my brand new editing room downtown, with a bunch of new footage to tackle. There are many things to discover and challenges that lie in the road ahead. But in this moment that timeline is empty. I drag the first clip into the timeline and ready myself for the challenge. A new beginning… Let’s go exploring!

[As Zac foreshadowed in his October 8 column, this will be his last column for The River Reporter. Starting as “Reel Life” in October of 2004, his column has allowed us to follow the life and times of one of the many young people who spent his or her childhood in the Upper Delaware and then fared out into the world to make a career. We wish him and his new wife health and success on their continued journey.]

Winter fun at the library

ONTICELLO, NY — E.B. Crawford Library has a series of programs planned for winter fun in upcoming weeks. On Monday, December 29 from 3 to 4 p.m. you can learn a winter craft that will be fun for all ages. If you’re in grades seven to 12, join our Battle of the Books team. There will be an information meeting on Friday, January 2 and

16 at 5 p.m. to find out about it. And there will be a Teen Maker program on Friday, January 9 at 4 p.m. All library programs are free and open to the public. For up-to-date information on programs, “like” the library on Facebook, follow on Twitter, visit the website (www.ebcrawfordlibrary.org), or call 845/794-4660.

Happy Holidays

22 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

We wish you peace and joy this holiday season

Thank you to all our loyal customers and friends!

J. Tigue Auto Sales Pre-Owned, Clean, Warranted Used Cars & Trucks 101 Prospect Street (Rt 6) • Hawley, PA 570-226-6450

Happy Holidays & Best Wishes for a

Merry Christmas to all

T & T Auto Body For all your Collision and Repair Needs • 24 Hour Towing

WATSON BROS. INC.

Prosperous & Healthy 2015

Route 55 White Lake, NY • 845-583-4262

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday The greatest gift for us has been getting to know you and your families

Rodgers-Olver-Polley, Inc. Insurance Agents & Brokers since 1948 Auto • Home • Business • Life 918 Church St 106 Broad St 146 Chestnut St

Honesdale, PA Milford, PA Dunmore, PA

570-253-2634 570-296-5588 570-342-9121

Merry Christmas to all WAYNE COUNTY READY MIX CONCRETE CO. 379 Grimms Road Honesdale, Pa

570-253-4341 Fax 570-253-3450

Thank you for your patronage and continued support from all of us at

Route 6, West of Hawley, PA • 570-226-2881 Route 6 White Mills, PA • 570-253-4061

Happy Holidays!

S&M AUTO SALES

Amanda’s

House Calls Available!

35 years of pet grooming!

845-887-4708

1175 RTE. 52, LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY (Next to Sherman’s Service Center)

845-436-9447

sandmautosales.com

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays and A Healthy New Year!

Dog Grooming

16-41 Silas Thompkins Road Long Eddy, NY 12760

Your dog’s well being is my 1st concern!

Merry Christmas

Kelly L. Edwards NP

and a happy & healthy New Year

4054 State Route 52, Youngsville, NY 845.482.4800 845.482.4801 Fax

Angelina’s on The Hill

Youngsville Medical Center

Compassion and Quality Care

from all of us at Pizzeria/Italian Restaurant 23 Crestwood Road, Lake Huntington, NY 845-932-5042

Dine-In • Carry-Out

Closed Sundays

HUZ\

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 23

THE RIVER REPORTER

H o y l i p d p a a ys H

Happy Holidays!

Matthew T. Kuber, M.D.,F.A.C.C. Board CertiĂ&#x20AC;ed Cardiology & Internal Medicine

ADULT & SENIOR HEALTH CARE COMPLETE CARDIOVASCULAR SERVICES GENERAL HEALTH MAINTENANCE SENIOR F.A.A. MEDICAL EXAMINER

Happy Holidays! CALLICOON CO-OP Insurance Company

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We are pleased to have served the local area since 1878

845-482-5522 15 Chapel Street â&#x20AC;˘ Jeffersonville, NY

May the Peace and Joy of Christmas be yours throughout the New Year

TRI-COUNTY EAR NOSE & THROAT Park Street â&#x20AC;˘ Honesdale, PA â&#x20AC;˘ 570-253-0202 Route 209 â&#x20AC;˘ Milford, PA â&#x20AC;˘ 570-491-5255 www.tricountyent.com

1DPH /LEHUW\ 7\SH 3LW EXOO PL[ IHPDOH \HDUV ROG &RORU %ODFN EURZQ EULQGOHG Z ZKLWH &ROODU 1R FROODU /DVW VHHQ LQ &RFKHFWRQ 1<

gbi@hvcbiz.rr.com

9(5< )5,(1'/< *(17/( '2*

P. O. Box 218 â&#x20AC;˘ CALLICOON 845-887-4060 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 845-887-4678

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P. O. Box 175 â&#x20AC;˘ NARROWSBURG 845-252-6697 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 845-252-3940

Rt. 191S, 310 Sunrise Ave. Honesdale, PA

and the Staff of

from the staff Krissy, Cindy, Craig & Nikki

General Insurance

570/253-4255

Drs. Philip & Rosita Liu

Seasons Greetings & Happy Holidays

GBI, GEORGE BURKLE, INC. GBI INSURANCE

OFFICE HOURS BY APPOINTMENT

Dr. Richard Korb and Family of Honesdale, PA would like to wish everyone a happy & healthy holiday season.

Happy Holidays and a great coming new year.

DR. Richard Korb

CHIROPRACTOR Route 6 West, Honesdale, PA 570-253-0511

24 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

Happy Holidays THE RIVER REPORTER

Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year

PA #022366

Michael Parker Custom Carpentry (570)

559-7583 • Shohola, PA

Merry Christmas From John Cirelli and Family

NARROWSBURG LIQUORS Pecks Plaza 106 Kirk Road Narrowsburg, NY 845-252-3235

Merry Christmas from Tom, Shannon, Lauren & Jackson at

auren’s aundry Basket

100 Kirk Road (Pecks Shopping Center) Narrowsburg NY

Newly Renovated – Brand New Machines

Cold wash starts at $1.50 7 am – 9 pm (last wash) • Drop O΍ Available 19 minute cycle Dryer time - 7 minutes per quarter

Health and Happiness to All

LEN & JO’S RESTAURANT 186 West Main Street • Port Jervis, NY

845-856-8021

Happy Holidays and a Joyous New Year Peter Kestler Well Drilling

Shohola, PA • 570-559-7596

Happy Holidays from all of us at NARROWSBURG MOTOR SALES INC. 174 Bridge Street, Narrowsburg, NY 12764

Season’s Greetings Rock Ridge Kennels “Where It’s Always Reigning Cats & Dogs” BOARDING & GROOMING Open 7 Days a Week Monday-Sunday 9am-4:30pm

845-791-7444

89 Rock Ridge Drive Monticello, NY

Joys of the Season to all our customers and friends

NARROWSBURG POST OFFICE Narrowsburg, NY • 845-252-3076 KATHLEEN M. JOHNSON, SALES MANAGER BUS. 845-252-3959 • FAX 845-252-7499

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our Clients, Business Associates, Suppliers and Friends

Lewis Meckle Construction 845-252-7469

Happy Holidays from all of us at

LP Cylinder Services, Inc Shohola, PA 570-685-7924

POST OFFICE BOXES AVAILABLE

Happy Holidays

Narrowsburg Electric Serving Sullivan County and PA area

Richard Maloney

845-252-7116 SEE OUR AD IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year

MMM

WASTE REMOVAL

We’re small enough to know you & big enough to serve you.

We’re a local, family owned & operated business with a solid reputation built on 10 years of reliable service.

OFFERING RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & TEMPORARY CONTAINER SERVICE

570-729-1633

THE RIVER REPORTER

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 25

In My Humble Opinion

By Jonathan B J th Ch Charles l F Fox

I’ve got no strings on me

nyone who is a fan of old Disney movies more than likely remembers that tune. Written for the 1940 animated masterpiece “Pinocchio,” the music and lyrics by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington (respectively) have stayed with me since I saw the film as a youngster. It wasn’t until much later in life that I realized that the lyrics, and story itself, were allegorical. “I’ve got no strings to hold me down,-to make me fret, or make me frown,” claims the puppet who wishes to be a real boy. “I had strings, but now I’m free—there are no strings on me!” There was a preponderance of strings in the house last week as the Wonder Dog and I attended another fundraiser in Bethel, NY (www.dancingcatsaloon.com). The Folk Fest for Felines and other Furry Friends event attracted musicians and animal lovers from far and wide, who showed up in droves to support a variety of animal shelters, including Catskill Animal Rescue and Carrie’s Rescues. Organizers Joanne Gerow and Amy Kristt were both on hand to greet guests and musicians, along with the kittenish Stacy Cohen, who also picked up a 12-string guitar and entertained, following headliners from the Sullivan County Songwriters Circle, with Elizabeth Rose at the helm. Rose, who quipped that she was under the impression that the event was “to rescue songwriters” (scsongwriters.wordpress.com), opened the show with musicians Brewster Smith, Jon Naberezny, Mike

AUCTION

Building B ildi Material M t i l 607-865-6951

Saturday, January 10 @ 10 am There will be two Auctions going at the same time. Bring a friend and be prepared to bid separately. This Auction has a great selection of high quality material!!

Location: Lambrecht Auction Facility-2698 Cty Hwy 47 Walton, NY Highlights: Kitchen Cabinet Sets (Multiple Floor Plans, Plywood Construction) ~ Huge selection of Flooring (All Kinds, Many Species, Handscrape, & More) ~ Exterior & Interior Doors ~ Kitchen & Bath Items ~ Shingles & Metal Roofing Products ~ Dimensional Lumber ~ Pine T&G ~ Rail Kits ~ Beams ~ Lg qty Plywoods & Sheathing ~ Decking ~ Vinyl Siding ~ T1-11 ~ Vinyl Windows~ Patio Doors~ Lighting ~ Mouldings ~ Insulation ~ Fuel Tanks ~ & More!!! Note: Many consignments expected. Our Customers are SOLD on Huge savings, you can save too on your next project!!! Visit our *new* Website for Details!

www.lambrechtauction.com

With the help of master sculptor Jason Thibodeaux, puppeteer Sarah Frechette is able to bring a “mini-me” version of herself to life during the PUPPETKABOB Theatre presentation of “The Snowflake Man.”

TRR photos by Jonathan Charles Fox

Catskill Animal Rescue’s Joanne Gerow, left, and Amy Kristt flank the Dancing Cat Saloon’s Stacy Cohen showing off their “pawtograph” from Dharma the Wonder Dog, who made an appearance to help raise funds for animals in need. Married couple Andre Turan and Ramona Jan have teamed up to perform as “Dose” and were on hand to help raise dollars at the Folk Fest for Felines & Other Furry Friends fundraiser at the Catskill Distilling Company last week.

Jung and a new duo, “Dose,” formed by husband and wife Andre Turan and Ramona Jan. When asked how the couple decided to perform together after all these years, Turan smirked. “I started playing with other folks,” Andre shared between sets, which featured a slew of other entertainers, “but it’s hard to keep the momentum. I see Ramona every day, she can’t escape me… We’re married!” The funds raised were considerable (www.facebook.com/Catskillanimalrescueinc), thanks to the great attendance and fans of the musicians, some of whom I did not have the chance to hear. I missed some personal favorites, like Janet Burgan, the Sarah Hulse Band and pal Ken Somerville, who forgave me as I was taking my leave, saying, “No worries, Jonathan. We see you everywhere we go!” “Hi-ho the me-rri-o,” I sang as I steered toward home alone. “That’s the only way to be. I want the world to know, nothing ever worries me.” Yeah, right. Being footloose and fancy-free has its advantages, but observing couples holding hands, much less performing together on stage has an appeal as well. Thankfully, my canine companion is always at my side, and we both looked forward to our trip to Livingston Manor (www.catskillartsociety.org) and the promise of more strings, in the form of Sarah Frechette, (www.puppetkabob.com). She brought her marionettes and storytelling talents to CAS with her incredible (IMHO) traveling puppet theatre show, “The Snowflake Man.” Based on a true story, Frechette’s ut-

The pop-up storybook sets combined with intricate details of the marionettes, props and costumes enchanted the kids and adults who listened, laughed and learned during the PUPPETKABOB Theatre’s presentation of “The Snowflake Man” at CAS in Livingston Manor, NY. terly beguiling presentation entranced the audience (and myself) as the tale of Wilson “Snowflake” Bentley literally unfolded before our eyes. “Czech-style marionettes and props backed up by a pop-up book of watercolor paintings” (which actually pop out of a trunk) enhanced Frechette’s thoroughly engaging style and personality. The scenes magically transported us into the miniature world of Snowflake Bentley and his discovery of how to capture the first image of a single snowflake on film. He did so by attaching a microscope to a camera lens, thus creating a “micrograph,” a method which, after much experimentation, succeeded on January 15, 1885. Frechette’s puppets are amazing in detail, as are the many props, costumes and backdrops. Combining a history lesson with her many voice characterizations, the puppeteer succeeded on every level. Jason Thibodeaux, who sculpted the intricate details of the expressive marionettes, was in the audience and “works with Sarah a great deal.” Together, they travel the country with a variety of shows, and he painstakingly toils away on the backdrops and Frechette’s trunk full of teeny props and costumes that enhance the show. “We continue to learn and grow with our audience,” Frechette told me. “Our shadow-puppet theatre (www.nightshadedynasty.blogspot.com) keeps us pretty busy, too.” Along with the audience, I was wowed and left the gallery singing. “I’ve got no strings, so I have fun. I’m not tied to anyone. They have strings, but you can see… there are no strings on me!”

26 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 27

THE RIVER REPORTER

Happy Holidays Merry Christmas in Heaven We love you and Miss you The holidays are just not the same without both of you Maryanne, Johnny, Eileen, Teddy, Christopher and families

3-CREDIT INTERSESSION COURSES FOR JUST

$550

Jan. 5-23, 2015 Lackawanna credits are accepted at colleges and universities across the country!

Peace on Earth

RON LENZ

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

SALES & SERVICE OF: DUCTLESS HEAT PUMPS OIL & GAS HEATING SYSTEMS CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING • SHEET METAL WORK WATER HEATERS Allergies? Asthma? we are now offering Duct Cleaning Services

570-729-8533

Happy Holidays to all our customers

from Scacarello & Sons

28 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

WHERE AND WHEN Wed., Dec. 24

Free computer support

Food for Fines program at the Port Jervis Free Library

PORT JERVIS — The Port Jervis Free Library is offering a “Food for Fines” program to benefit a local food pantry. Erase your fines by donating non-perishable food items. The library will forgive up to $1.00 in fines for each item donated up to a maximum fine limit of $10. Food for fines will not be accepted for damaged or lost item fees.

Free computer support

CALLICOON — Free computer support every Wednesday at the Delaware Free Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, 1-4pm. 845/887-4040.

Thurs., Dec. 25

Merry Christmas FRI., Dec. 26

JEFFERSONVILLE — Free computer support every Tuesday at the Jeffersonville Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, 1-6pm. 845/482-4350.

Wed., Dec. 31

Happy New Year’s Eve Callicoon Brewing: New Year’s Eve with Doug Rogers & Backseat Drivers

CALLICOON — Callicoon Brewing New Year’s Party at 9pm. Ring in 2015 with Doug Rogers & the Backseat Drivers at Callicoon Brewing, 16 Upper Main St. 845/887-5500.

Free computer support

CALLICOON — Free computer support every Wednesday at the Delaware Free Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, 1-4pm. 845/887-4040.

Fri., Jan. 2

Comedy Night

HAWLEY — Harmony Presents features comedians from New York, Boston, Philadelphia and more. Featured comedians’ combined experiences include appearances on MTV, placing in some of the top comedy festivals, and frequently performing in numerous comedy clubs around New York City. Comedian line-up announced at www.harmonypresents.com. 8:30pm; $16-20.

Sat., Dec. 27 Contra dance at The Cooperage

HONESDALE — Contra dance at The Cooperage, 1030 Main St., 7:30-10pm. Beginners are welcome. www.thecooperageproject. org.

Free computer support

NARROWSBURG — Free computer support at Tusten-Cochecton Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, every Saturday, 10am-1pm.

First Friday at the Calder Cafe

Lunch and Learn Workshop

MONTICELLO — The Dispute Resolution Center in Monticello is offering a Lunch & Learn Workshop from 12:30 to 1:30pm. Bring your lunch and learn about your options in obtaining a separation or divorce. Get educated about mediation—what it is and what it is not. Call 845/294-8082 x34 or 845/551-8644 to reserve seat(s).

Sun., Jan. 4 Callicoon Indoor Market

MILFORD — Pike County Hands of Hope prayer meeting at the First Presbyterian Church, 300 Broad St., 9-10am.

Two shows one night: Wade Preston from Broadway’s “Movin’ Out”

Sat., Jan. 10

HAWLEY — Wade Preston of “Movin’ Out!” the Broadway show and Billy Joel’s back-up delivers a show with your favorite tunes and original compositions. Early show (7pm) or late show (9:30pm). Tickets: $16-20.

Sun., Dec. 28 Callicoon Indoor Market

CALLICOON — The Callicoon Indoor Farmers’ Market at the Delaware Youth Center, 11am-2pm. Open rain, shine, or snow. 866/270-2015, www.sullivancountyfarmersmarkets.org, www. facebook.com/SCFMA.

Community Christmas Concert

POND EDDY, NY — Community Christmas Concert at Pond Eddy Methodist Church, Berme-Church Rd., 2pm. Area churches and local musical groups will perform. Free admission, freewill offering for local food pantries. Refreshments served after concert. 845/856-1129.

‘Winter Wonderland’ sheet music donated to WCHS

EQUINUNK — The Calder Café at the Equinunk Historical Society, 1972 Pine Mill Rd., will hold its monthly evening of music and fun. Performers welcome, acoustic music only. Call 570/2240223 to register. Doors open 6:30, music begins 7:15. Light refreshments for purchase.

CALLICOON — The Callicoon Indoor Farmers’ Market at the Delaware Youth Center, 11am-2pm. Open rain, shine, or snow. 866/270-2015, www.sullivancountyfarmersmarkets.org, www. facebook.com/SCFMA.

Hands of Hope prayer meeting

Photo courtesy of the Wayne County Historical Society

Dick Smith’s family home was 922 Church St., Honesdale, PA, seen in this photo dating from the mid-1950s.

One-man-band Matt Lorenz: The Suitcase Junket

HAWLEY — Matt Lorenz at Harmony Presents, 8pm. Throatsinging, slide-guitar playing, one-man-band on a pile of homemade junkdrums, Lorenz is the Suitcase Junket. No special effects, just one guy making a racket with homemade foot-drums, a beater guitar, a pile of songs and a mouth. Tickets: $14-$20.

Sun., Jan. 11 Callicoon Indoor Market

CALLICOON — The Callicoon Indoor Farmers’ Market at the Delaware Youth Center, 11am-2pm. Open rain, shine, or snow. 866/270-2015, www.sullivancountyfarmersmarkets.org, www. facebook.com/SCFMA.

ONESDALE, PA — Local residents Sally and Ab Rutherford recently donated to the Wayne County Historical Society (WCHS) several pieces of sheet music for songs by Richard B. (Dick) Smith, a former resident of Honesdale, who wrote the words to the holiday favorite “Winter Wonderland.” The Rutherfords donated the 1934 Guy Lombardo version of that classic, to which Felix Bernard wrote the music, as well as “It Looks Like an Early Fall” (with Ozzie Nelson as featured artist) and “The Breeze (That’s Bringin’ My Honey Back to Me).” According to WCHS Executive Director Carol Henry Dunn, “Dick Smith was born in Honesdale in 1901, graduated from Honesdale High School in 1920, and went on to Penn State where he studied advertising and edited the college magazine. He also organized and conducted his own orchestra. After graduating, he moved to New York City,

where he was not only a Tin Pan Alley lyricist, but also became a theater manager, with venues on Broadway and elsewhere around the country… “Locals tell the story that the lyrics to ‘Winter Wonderland’ were inspired by snow scenes in Central Park in downtown Honesdale, which he witnessed from the windows of his family’s home at 922 Church St. ‘Winter Wonderland’ was featured in the ‘Ziegfeld Follies of 1934,’ and was first recorded by Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians. It eventually became a big hit about eight years after Smith’s death, and has since been recorded by over 200 artists including Perry Como, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, Michael Bublé and many others, representing nearly every type of musical style.” Smith died tragically young, in 1935, from tuberculosis, and was buried in Glen Dyberry Cemetery following a funeral at Grace Episcopal Church.

Tues., Dec. 30 Cash bingo

HONESDALE — Cash bingo every Tuesday night at the Texas #4 Fire Co., Grove St., doors open 5:30pm, games at 6:30pm. $1,100 progressive jackpot, tear-offs, Bonanza, fish bowl, refreshments. 570/253-0782.

S N O W P L O W

Honesdale native Dick Smith wrote the lyrics to the holiday classic “Winter Wonderland”

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 29

THE RIVER REPORTER

Service Directory Affordable Dentistry DENTURES $499.00 each & up EXTRACTIONS with DENTURES 150.00 each & up CAPS $500.00 & up Call for appointment

SOUTH FALLSBURG DENTAL

5203 Main St., Rt. 42, South Fallsburg, NY H 845-434-1202 \

Air Conditioning Heating • Plumbing • Electrical Air Conditioning

BORSDAM’S INC.

Builder

Excavating & Landscaping

Prime Wall Covering & Painting

570-224-6284

TED KILLE

D&R EXCAVATING AND LANDSCAPING

Fine Interior Painting Exceptional Wall Covering Istallation 30 years experience, fully insured Dave Magliacane, Pleasant Mount, PA PA Lic#011906 • 570-642-1042

WOOD & COAL STOVES

Plumbing, Carpentry, Renovations, Ceramic Tile, Stone Work, Electric & Honey do lists 845-887-4708

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Professional Rotovac Steam & Shampoo System Residential & Commercial – Power Washing Decks, Siding, Patios & Restoration Services 607-498-6027 • www.fieldtester.com

570-253-3788

Contractor

Architect

LEWIS MECKLE CONSTRUCTION CORP.

BUCK MOORHEAD, ARCHITECT Creative, Energy-Saving Design Certified Passive House Consultant Callicoon, NY • 212-343-2735 buck@buckmoorheadarchitect.com

PHILIP FARMILOE, ARCHITECT, AIA

Sustainable design • New Homes & Renovations Cochecton, New York • Philip@farmiloe.com 347-325-1818

Arts DELAWARE VALLEY ARTS ALLIANCE 37 Main Street, Narrowsburg, NY 845-252-7576 www.artsalliancesite.org

Auto Body B&R COLLISION CORP.

Complete Collision Specialists 512 Church Street, Hawley, PA 18428 570-226-3291

ESSELMAN PAVING

HALLORAN FARM

HVAC ENERGYSTARDAVE

AMERICAN ELECTRIC, LLC

845-701-3088

JS ELECTRIC

Serving Sullivan County 26 Years Experience • All forms of Electrical work Voted Best Electrician fourth year in a row Richard Maloney • 845-252-6640

Equipment & Storage Used and New Equipment & Parts Shed and Gazebo Sales • Kubota Dealer Bobcat Dealer

MARSHALL MACHINERY, INC.

Located on Route 652 in Honesdale, PA 570-729-7117 • www.marshall-machinery.com

Equipment & Tool Repair ELDRED EQUIPMENT SERVICE & SUPPLY

Blacktopping Lake Huntington, NY • 845-932-7829

550 Route 55, Eldred, NY 845-557-6168 888-435-2979 M-F 8-5 Sat 8-3

Builder

Exterminating

JMR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

BARRYVILLE EXTERMINATING SERVICE

Custom Homes, Renovations, Additions, Restorations, Roofs, Decks, Siding, Remodeling 570-559-7935 or 877-275-5671 Joseph Riccardi • www.jmrconstructioncompany.com

CENTRAL BOILER E-CLASSIC

Commercial Boilers, Heat Pumps & Controls

NARROWSBURG ELECTRIC

Blacktopping

Heating

Service, New Construction, Well Pumps, Water Heaters & Boilers Fully Insured • Free Estimates Greg Stevenson • 845/252-7286

5" Residential, 6" & 7" Commercial Leaf Guard also Available 36 Colors Available • 845-557-8967

Electrical Licensed Electrical Contractor Sull. Co. License #273 • Orange Co. License #174 Wayne Co. Builder’s Assoc #PA031768 NJ State License #12380 Residential • Commercial • Industrial Authorized Generac Generator Dealer We Service All Makes of Generators www.AmericanElectricOnline.com 845-932-8111 or 845-583-1015 PA: 570-251-9990

“The Name You Trust” • Free Estimates 845-557-6762 • Serving NY & PA Integrated Pest Management

BUSELLI PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRIC New Construction, Renovation, Service Water Heaters, Boilers, Well Pumps Solar Installs • 570-729-7791

845-482-5208

Blower door testing for energy efficiency Windturbine and solar assessment Renewable energy/greenbuilding design consulting. 845-252-6626

Plumbing & Heating

BOB’S SEAMLESS GUTTERS

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

D & R AUTO REPAIR

Foreign, domestic car and truck repair and complete fuel injection cleaning. 24-hour towing. NYS Inspection. Complete Diagnostic Check. 907 CR 23, Narrowsburg, NY H \ 845-252-3944 Z U

Gutters

Outdoor wood furnace CLEANER and GREENER EPA Qualified CALL TODAY!

Automotive

SONNY'S SERVICE CENTER

Serving the Tri-State Area for 18 Years! CAC Garden/Koi Ponds, Landscaping, Full Service Excavation, Authorized San Juan Pool Dealer & Installer Patios, Retaining Walls, Decorative Concrete 845-292-7707

New Homes • New Construction Renovations • Excavations From start to finish • Quality to remember Narrowsburg, NY • 845-252-7469

Licensed Electrical Contractor Serving Sullivan County • Residential • Commercial HEAT • LIGHT • POWER James A. Sackett • 845-252-7461

Complete auto repairs, 24 hr. local & long distance towing or flatbed recovery service. Gas • Diesel • BBQ Tanks Cash paid for junk vehicles. Rt. 97, Barryville, NY. Open 7 days. 845-557-8881 Nights 570-559-7696 or 7668

Call to advertise: 845-252-7414 Deadline: Mondays, 2:00 p.m.

SOLAR GEO & WOOD

Landscaping BRADY STONE & LANDSCAPING LLC All phases of landscaping Specializing in stone walls, walkways, patios, veneer & cultured stone • Excavating 570-729-8395

GS PLUMBING & HEATING

PIERPONT HEATING & PLUMBING “The Best for Less” • Bill Pierpont 845-252-7319 Cell: 845-7968096

Roofing STRAIT LINE ROOFING

Stoves Hot Air - Hot Water • Free Standing 570-253-0469 Fax 570-253-0520 www.unitedjim.com

Swimming Pools CLEAR-RITE POOLS & SPAS, INC.

Custom-built • Residential • Commerical Vinyl Liner Specialist • Complete Renovations Openings, Closings & Maintenance Spa Repairs: All Makes & Models 845-482-4646 • Youngsville, NY www.ClearRitePools.com

Tree Service BLACK OAK TREE SERVICE

Tree removal, trimming. Fully Insured, Fair Prices, Free Estimate 845-557-3833

DER OSKAR TREE SERVICE.COM

“We’ve got you covered” Voted BEST Roofer 2009 - 2013 Owens Corning Preferred Contractor Insured, Commercial, Residential All Phases of Roofing Including Metal

Full Service Tree Care • Tree Removal & Pruning Fertilizer & Insecticide Treatments Organic Pesticide Spraying • Member TCIA 845 557 8051 Licensed NY/PA deroskartreeservice@yahoo.com In business since 1993 • Fully Insured

Visit us at www.straitlineroofing.com

Pole Saw Work • Climbing • Complete Tree Removal Stump Grinding • Chipping • Trimming

Sand & Gravel

Free Estimates • 845-482-4965

1-866-702-ROOF (7663) 845-583-0247

GAEBEL’S TREE SERVICE

Stone • Topsoil • D.O.T. Sand • Modified Mason & Screened Sand • Red Shale

Truck Parts & More

Patios, walkways, retaining walls fencing, tree removal Mowing & Clean-ups • 845-468-0130 www.CreativeEarthLandscape.com

Rt. 652, Honesdale, PA • 570-251-9818

Truck Parts, Repair & Equipment, Heavy-duty Towing, Road Service, Snow Removal Equipment

MACIEJEWSKI LANDSCAPING, INC.

KOBERLEIN SEPTIC CLEANING

CREATIVE EARTH LANDSCAPING

Hydro-seeding • Walkways • Patios Retaining Walls • Tree Shrubs Installation Drainage Work • Fully Insured • Irrigation FREE ESTIMATE • 570-224-6405 MaciejewskiLandscaping.com

MARHAREX STONE & LANDSCAPING

VALLEY SAND & GRAVEL

Septic Service Septic Pumping, Jetting, Line Cleaning Video Inspection & Drainfield Restoration 845-292-1494 • 570-729-7645

Complete Design & Installation All applications of Stone Work Proudly serving the area since 2001 Full portfolio 570-878-1595 • marharex.com

ROTO ROOTER Septic Tank Pumping, Underground Pipe Video Inspections, Drainfield Restoraton Service, Septic System Inspections, All Types of Plumbing, Repairs, 24-Hour Service.

Marriage Officer

SULLIVAN COUNTY SEPTIC SERVICE

845-252-6672 • 570-729-7936

ROBERT E. LUBEN

"The Drain Surgeon" Pumping - Drain Cleaning - Excavation Portable Restroom Rentals Ken Bloom, Pres. • 845-583-4064

Painter

BUSELLI PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRIC

Retired NY Town Justice Same Sex and Different Sex Weddings 845-252-3471 rivervalleyappraisal@aol.com

B&L HOME INTERIOR

Interior & Exterior, Paint & Stain, Power Washing, Deck Refinishing, Log Home, Vinyl Siding FREE Estimates • Fully Insured • 570-352-3198

KELLAM’S PAINTING

Interior & Exterior, Deck Preserving, Roofing & Repairs • Pressure Washing FREE Estimates • Fully Insured • Guatanteed Bob: 570-253-9424 home Shawn: 570-352-4740 cell

RTS TRUCK CENTER, INC 570-729-7636

Well Drilling PETER A. KESTLER WELL DRILLING Licensed driller serving NY, NJ and PA Since 1967 • “Water when you want it!” Shohola, PA • 570-559-7596

Yard Sale Visit THE YARD SALE STORE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT! Enjoy The Book Yard - All Books $1 Each. Browse affordable Sterling Silver Jewelry, Vintage Clothing, Art, Tools and Furniture. Select from 100’s of DVD Movies, AUDIO CDs and Books on Tape. Located in Narrowsburg at the bottom of Main Street opposite The River Reporter. APPOINTMENTS WELCOME. 845-252-3999. Give yourself a second hand! TheYardSaleStore@AOL.com

Solar Energy Solar Electric Power, Solar Thermal Hot Water & Heat. Install & Service 570-729-7791

Storage RILEYVILLE MINI STORAGE

Your lock - your key - low monthly rates, various sizes to suit your needs. Route 371 East, Rileyville, PA

CALL TODAY

30 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

Classifieds Help Wanted Publisher’s Employment Notice – All employment advertised in this newspaper is subject to Section 296 of the Human Rights Law which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, age, or arrest conviction record, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. Title 29, U.S. Code, Chap. 630, excludes the Federal Gov’t. for the age discrimination provisions. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for employment which is in violation of the law. Our readers are informed that employment offerings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Help Wanted

To advertise, call Eileen: 845-252-7414, ext. 35 Deadline: Mondays, 12:00 p.m. Help Wanted

TRUCK MECHANIC

Must be experienced & qualiÀed in heavy trucks and equipment. Must have own tools, be dependable and honest. FT positions open. FT salary $30k to $60k. BeneÀts available for career minded individual.

Dismantlers/Scrap Yard

Hiring metal sorters, metal buyer, torch men, equipment operators. Full time/part time. Port Jervis, NY.

Class A CDL Driver Tow endorsement a plus. If you can operate machinery, that’s a double plus!

Motor Vehicle Clerk

Candidate must be able to multi-task. Good communication skills and customer service experience. Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel OfÀce - bilingual is a plus. Salary commensurate with experience. Hrs. Mon-Fri 8-5, some Saturdays. References a must.

Call or apply @ Arthur Trovei & Sons, Inc. 845-856-1142

Construction/Design Coordinator

Adoption ADOPT: Looking to adopt another little miracle, giving our daughter a sibling/best friend and completing our family. Contact Robin and Neil: 866-303-0668, www.rnladopt.info ADOPTION: Childless, loving couple pray to adopt. Stay at home mom, successful dad, great dogs & devoted grandparents. Legally allowed expenses paid. Bill & Debbie 800-311-6090 ADOPTION: Unplanned Pregnancy? Caring licensed adoption agency provides financial and emotional support. Choose from loving pre-approved families. Call Joy toll free 1-866-922-3678 or confidential email:Adopt@ForeverFamiliesThroughAdoption.org A childless young married couple (she-30/he-37) seeks to adopt. Will be hands-on mom/devoted dad. Financial security. Expenses paid. Call/text. Mary & Adam. 1-800790-5260.

Eldred Of¿ce position available for talented person. Flexible position depending on quali¿ed applicant. Superb computer skills desired. Knowledge of building industry helpful. $45k-55k, host of bene¿ts available. Send resumes to sullivancountydesign@gmail.com. Services Offered It’s easy to place an ad in classifieds.

CHARGE IT! e y w r

ADVERTISE HERE!

GET RESULTS! 845-252-7414

Doreen’s Cleaning house and office cleaning RV and car cleaning, light errands NY & PA Free Estimates Please call 845-252-6698

QUICK CASH FOR YOUR SCRAP Copper, Brass, Aluminum, Steel, Appliances, Batteries, Cars, Machines, Trucks! Most anything metal!!

Clean Copper $1.25-$2.50/lb. Light Iron & Steel $100-$200/gross ton PRICES SUBJECT Aluminum 30-60¢/lb. TO CHANG E Scrap Car Batteries $10 each DAILY

CALL TODAY or just bring your scrap and cash in now! ARTHUR TROVEI AND SONS, INC. Rt. 97, Sparrowbush/Port Jervis, NY 12780 845-856-1142 www.trovei.com

Help Wanted

2015 - 2016 Opening

Fallsburg Central School

Director of Physical Education & Athletics NYS SDA/SDL or SAS/SBL & Physical Education Certification Required Start Date: July 2015 Forward resumes ASAP to: Sullivan County BOCES Recruitment Service, 6 Wierk Avenue, Liberty, NY 12754 or email recruitment@scboces.org Attn: Fallsburg Search EOE

Immediate Openings Monticello Central School

School Bus Attendant (10 month position)

Requirements: Candidate must be at least 21 years of age. Have current fingerprint clearance certificate or be able to pass NYS History Investigation. Must be able to pass NYS Department of Physical Performance Test. The district will provide paid training for qualified candidates. Forward resumes by Dec. 29 to: Sullivan County BOCES Recruitment Service, 6 Wierk Avenue, Liberty, NY 12754 or email recruitment@scboces.org Attn: Monticello Search EOE

The Western Sullivan Public Library is seeking resumes for the position of part time Library Assistant, with primary duties in adult programming. Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree; this position is subject to Civil Service Examination. Starting salary is $12.00 per hour and is for 25 hours per week with travel between the three library branches. Application materials (cover letter, resume, and three professional references) must be electronically submitted in PDF format to wspldirector@rcls.org no later than 5PM on Monday January 5, 2015.

DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 31

THE RIVER REPORTER Auctions Tiny house AUCTION, Vermont post & beam sheds, Livestock shelters & firewood storage January 22, 2015 Absolute no reserve Bid online 802 297 3760 www.JamaicaCottageShop.com

Auto Donations Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 315-400-0797 Today!

Career Opportunities AIRLINE CAREERS begin here Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Financial aid for qualified students – Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-296-7093 WELDING CAREERS- Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. CALL AIM 888-205-1735

Wanted CASH for Coins! Buying Gold & Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Comics, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in NJ: 1-800-488-4175

Legal Notice Notice of formation of a domestic Limited Liability Company (“LLC”). 237 Eldred-YulanRoad, LLC, with its principal business location at 18 Montgomery Lake Road, Yulan, Sullivan County, New York, filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York on October 1, 2014. The Secretary of State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The LLC address to which the Secretary of State of New York shall mail process is 18 Montgomery Lake Road, Yulan, NY 12792. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be formed. 120 SHREEJI, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/21/14. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 30 North St., Monticello, NY 12701. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business location: 120 Kirks Rd., Narrowsburg, NY 12764.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

845-252-7414

PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Highland will conduct a public hearing and regular meeting on or about 7:00 p.m. on January 8, 2015 at the Eldred Town Hall in Eldred, New York upon Area Variance Application No. 14-0 2 for Primax Properties, LLC. The applicant is requesting two variances. The first variance is for thirty-three parking spaces, instead of the required 91 parking spaces, for a 9100 square foot Dollar General retail store. The second variance is for a lot line adjustment for a lot width change for a minor commercial driveway entrance which would result in S.B.L. 13.-415.3 (“Lot 1”) having a lot width of 171.66 and S.B.L. 13.-4-15.2 (“Lot 2”) having a lot width of 136.39. Presently Lot 1 has an existing nonconforming lot width of 100.15, and Lot 2 has a conforming lot width of 207.90. The lot width

Legal Notice

requirement is 150 feet. The parcel situates are in the H-C district in Eldred, N.Y. and are located at 585 State Route 55 and at the adjoining parcel which is vacant. They are designated on the Town of Highland Tax Rolls as S.B.L. 13.-4-15.2 and S.B.L. 13.4-15.3. The area variances are sought pursuant to the Zoning Law of the Town of Highland, Sullivan County, New York, Section 3.5 Bulk regulations. At such time persons having comments for or against said application shall be heard. The application will be on file in the Town Clerk’s Office ten (10) days prior to the public hearing. Written comments may be submitted in advance to the Town of Highland Zoning Board, P.O. Box 98, Eldred, N.Y. 12732 and those received on or before January 8, 2015 will be read into the public record. By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals Mary Jasper, Secretary

2015, pursuant to the Rules of the County Legislature. All meetings will be held in the Legislative Chambers at the Sullivan County Government Center, 100 North Street, Monticello, New York, unless otherwise designated. Notice of any other or special meetings, or any changes in the schedule, will be posted on the official bulletin board in the lobby of the Sullivan County Government Center as well as the bulletin board in the lobby of the County Legislature. January 8, February 5, March 5, April 9, May 7, June 4, July 2, August 6, September 3, October 1, November 5, December 3 9:15AM Public Safety and Law Enforcement Committee 10:30AM Government Services Committee 11:30AM Community and Economic Development Committee 12:15PM Personnel Committee 2:00PM Planning, Environmental Management and Real Property February 5, April 9, June 5, August 6, October 1, December 3 1:00PM Veterans Committee May 7, July 2, September 3, November 5 1:00PM Capital Planning and Budget Committee January 15, February 10, March 12, April 23, May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12, December 10 9:00AM Health and Family Services Committee 10:30AM Management and Budget Committee 11:45AM Public Works Committee 1:30PM Ag and Sustainability Committee January 22, February 19, March 19, April 23, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17 11:30AM Executive Committee 2:00PM Full Legislative Board Meeting BY ORDER OF THE SULLIVAN COUNTY LEGISLATURE Dated: December 18, 2014 By:AnnMarie Martin, Clerk to the Legislature

Realty LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/18/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served . SSNY shall mail process to: 441 Rte 306, Wesley Hills, NY 10952. Purpose: any lawful activity.

shall mail process to: PO Box 96, Monticello, NY 12701. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company The name of the limited liability company is: Moose Micro Tunnel LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the New York Secretary of State’s office on : October 10,2014. The County in which the Office is to be located : Sullivan The New York Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is : 575 North Branch Rd Co Rt 121 Callicoon, NY 12723 LEGAL NOTICE The Sullivan County Legislature has fixed the following dates and times for regular monthly legislative and committee meetings for the year

A S A P

K I W I

N G E A E S

E A R N G N S U U T I R S A R

S T E R S I N G T A L B U E E M T

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C A N O N

O L D S O N A G N G S T U S T R O T I M E S R P M Y

P O E T I C A

E S N S A R

T U N E D U P

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Y A Z

PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that the Zon-

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Notice of Formation of BAP VENTURES LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/17/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY

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Notice of Formation of Relational Minds Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 9/29/14. Office location:Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 85 Woods Rd, Barryville, NY 12719. Purpose: any lawful activity.

1. iMac alternative 6. Hypotheticals 9. Archibald and Thurmond of the NBA 14. Xerox competitor 15. Tip of a wingtip 16. Start of a challenge 17. Irritated an American League team? 19. Like any of seven Nolan Ryan games 20. Zilch 21. Rigid 22. “Cougar Town” network 25. 18th U.S. pres. 26. Like a yellow polka dot bikini in a 1960 #1 hit 27. Military maneuver involving the use of bathroom appliances? 31. House call? 32. Like birthday cakes 33. Result of a prank pulled by Stills and Nash? 40. Reaction to a fireworks display 41. Thomas ____ Edison 43. Doing a bad job of playing Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters songs? 50. Present at birth 51. Sch. with a Providence campus 52. Medium power? 53. It’s held by London banks 54. Jargon 56. Peter the pepper picker 57. Ecological disasters evidenced in 17-, 27-, 33- and 43-Across 61. Light on one’s feet 62. Fruity quencher 63. Slowpoke 64. “If voting changed anything, ____ make it illegal”: Emma Goldman 65. Newsman Koppel 66. “The best is ____ come!”

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Brief life? It merged with WorldCom in 1998 They’re seen on C-Span It might be cashed for pounds “We’re on!” Big snowfall “____ sells” Company whose name is derived from a Japanese phrase meaning “leave it to heaven” 10. Is mad for 11. Falafel sandwich sauce 12. 13th-century king of Denmark 13. Furniture in a parlor 18. Saw stuff? 21. One in a herd 22. Motocross four-wheeler, for short 23. Numbskull 24. Baseball’s ____ Gaston 28. Strung souvenir 29. Bout 30. Govt. media watchdog 34. Hung around 35. Actress Skye and others 36. Holiday quaff 37. “Do the Right Thing” role 38. Smurf-colored 39. Fashion’s ____ Saint Laurent 42. Saharan viper 43. Refrain from taking further action 44. In a position of authority 45. Where to find baked blackbirds 46. In a weak way 47. Sent flying 48. Physics 101 units 49. Medical diagnostic test 54. Right hand 55. Prong 57. Kind of flakes 58. Long. partner 59. Ignited 60. ____-pitch softball

32 • DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

Real Estate Give the gift Publisher’s Notice – All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimintation.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 33

Legal Notice

ing Board of Appeals of the Town of Highland will conduct a public hearing and regular meeting on or about 7:00 p.m. on January 8, 2015 at the Eldred Town Hall in Eldred, New York upon Area Variance Application No. 14-01 for Rafael Montalvo. The applicant is requesting an Area Variance for a side yard setback of 20 feet, instead of the required 30 feet, for a garage. The parcel situate is in the R-2 district and is located at 66 Highland Lake Road in Eldred, New York. It is designated on the Town of Highland Tax Rolls as Section 10, Block 1, and Lot 97.43. An Area Variance is sought pursuant to the Zoning Law of the Town of Highland, Sullivan County, New York, Section 3.5 Bulk regulations. At such time persons having comments for or against said application shall be heard. The application will be on file in the Town Clerk’s Office ten (10) days prior to the public hearing. Written comments may be submitted in advance to the Town of Highland Zoning Board, P.O. Box 98, Eldred, N.Y. 12732 and those received on or before January 8, 2015 will be read into the public record. By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals Mary Jasper, Secretary

process to: John McMahon & Sons LLC, 333 Jericho Tpke., Ste. 305, Jericho, NY 11753. Purpose: any lawful activity.

F&A 1024 LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 12/11/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 310 Main St., Hurleyville, NY 12747. General Purposes.

SULLIVAN CASINO CONSTRUCTORS, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/8/14. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 11 Rosen Rd., Monticello, NY 12701, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Notice of Formation of 314 Main Street LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/12/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail

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845-252-7414 ext. 35

NOTICE OF BID The Narrowsburg Sewer District will be accepting sealed bids for the pumping of septic tanks, dosing tanks, contact tanks and pump stations for the calendar year of 2015. Regular pumping is to be done within 24 hours of call. Pumping is to start at 8:30am Monday through Friday and when required for emergencies. Bidder must be a NYSDEC licensed hauler, insured for one million dollars liability and have a minimum capacity of 3000 gallons per call. Submit a combined price per gallon for pumping, labor and disposal to Tusten Town Clerk, 210 Bridge Street, PO Box 195, Narrowsburg NY 12764 before 2:30 p.m. on January 9, 2015. Bids shall be clearly marked “2015 Pumping Bid”. Bids will be opened at the regular monthly meeting on January 13, 2015, weather permitting, starting at 7:00 pm. Only a uniform price per gallon with no sliding scales will be accepted. Please note a non-collusion certificate must be enclosed with the bid and can be obtained from the Tusten Town Clerk or District Superintendent. The Tusten Town Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids. Questions regarding the bid can be directed to District Superintendent Dominic Hillard, M-F 7:00AM 3:00PM at (845) 252-7376. By Order of the Tusten Town Board

December 19, 2014 Nicole Peters Tusten Town Clerk BID NOTICE TOWN OF HIGHLAND PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Town Board of the Town of Highland is accepting bids for One (1) 2016 Freightliner Model 114SD Tandem Dump Truck & Snow Plow Equipment or approved Equal. Please contact the Town Clerks Office @ 845-557-6085 for copies of the specs of this bid. Bids must be at the Town Clerks Office 4 Proctor Road Eldred NY 12732 no later than noon on Monday, January 12, 2015. A non- collusive form must be included each bid and the Town Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids. By order of the Town Board Dated December 11, 2014 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF THE VITAL FARM, LLC, a New York Limited Liability Company. Articles of Organization filed on November 26, 2014. Office location: Sullivan County. Street Address: 147 Cutler Rd, Swan Lake, NY 12783. The Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) is designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against THE VITAL FARM, LLC is c/o Justin Young, 147 Cutler Rd, Swan Lake, NY 12783. Duration: Indefinite. Purpose: engage in any lawful act or activity. TWO POINTS FILMS LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 10/29/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 271 High Rd., Glen Spey, NY 12737. General Purposes. LEGAL NOTICE TAX COLLECTOR’S NOTICE TOWN OF COCHECTON Notice is hereby given that I have received the Tax Roll and Warrant for Collection of Taxes in the Town of Cochecton, Sullivan County, New York, for the year 2015 and have fixed the following schedule for receiving the taxes. During the month of January as follows: From 4 PM - 7 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays at The Cochecton Town Hall located at 74 Smales Road, Lake Huntington,NY or contact me for an appointment. Please make all checks payable to: Eileen Hennessy, Tax Collector or if paying in cash, please have exact change. GRADUATED TAX PENALTY ***JANUARY – PAR***FEBRUARY – 1%*** ***MARCH – 2% *** TAXPAYERS MAY PAY IN

Legal Notice

THREE INSTALLMENTS AS FOLLOWS 50% OF TOTAL BILL DUE BY JANUARY 31ST 25% OF TOTAL BILL DUE BY FEBRUARY 28TH WITH A 1% INTEREST PENALTY 25% OF TOTAL BILL DUE BY MARCH 31ST WITH A 2% INTEREST PENALTY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE INSTALLMENT PROGRAM, YOU MUST PAY THE FIRST (1ST) INSTALLMENT NO LATER THAN JANUARY 31, 2015 THE TOWN OF COCHECTION IS ACCEPTING CREDIT CARD VISA, MC, DISCOVER and E-CHECKS An additional penalty of $2 will be added to your bill, if you have not paid your taxes by the time the Tax Collector begins sending unpaid notices on or after 3/01/2015, as required by State Law. After March 31, 2015, taxes are payable to the Sullivan County Treasurer, 100 North Street, Monticello, NY 12701 (845) 807-0200, with interest according to section 924-A of the Real Property Tax Law. For information regarding any Tax Exemptions, contact the Assessor, Lorry King at (845) 932-8225 (Call for hours) or write P.O. Box 245, Lake Huntington, NY 12752. If planning on renovations or construction notify the Code Enforcement Office at (845) 932-8174 a permit may be required. If you no longer own this property, please forward this bill to the current owner or return it to me with the new owner’s correct name and address. Please note that a $20.00 fee will be added to all returned checks. SOLID WASTE/RECYCLING FEE The County has imposed an annual fee to pay for solid waste/ recycling disposal. This fee appears as a separate line item on your tax bill and is payable along with the tax. Please direct all questions to the County Treasurer’s office at 845/807-0200. Eileen Hennessy – Tax Collector, 295 Mohn Road, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 (845) 252-3568 IF YOU WANT A COPY OF YOUR TAX BILL GO TO www.taxlookup. net

Sullivan West Central School District shall hold a public hearing on the 15th day of January 2015, at 6:45 PM, at the Sullivan West High School Library, Lake Huntington, New York, for the purpose of discussion of the adoption of the Alternate Veterans’ Exemption.

HOBBY HORSE FARM, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/12/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 63 Rose Rd., Woodbourne, NY 12788. General Purposes. Legal Notice NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Education of the

Dated: December 22, 2014 By Order of the Board of Education Sullivan West Central School Margaret L. Luty, District Clerk

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Notice of Formation of HW-ISRA LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/11/14. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o NorthEnd Equities LLC, 45 Broadway, Ste. 630, NY, NY 10006, Attn: Charles Herzka, Esq, the registered agent upon whom process may be served. Purpose: any lawful activity.

PUBLIC NOTICE Please take notice that the Planning Board of the Town of Highland will conduct a Public Hearing and Regular Meeting on or about 7:00 p.m. on January 7, 2015 at the Eldred Town Hall, Eldred, New York upon Site Plan Application No. 1403 for River Market. The applicant is seeking a Special Use Permit to open a classic old style miniature 18 hole golf course. The parcel situate is in the H-C Zone and is located at 3385 State Route 97 in Barryville, New York and is designated on the Town of Highland Tax Rolls as Section 28, Block 6, Lot 9.2. At such time persons having comments for or against said application shall be heard. The application will be on file in the Town Clerk’s Office ten (10) days prior to Public Hearing. Written comments may be submitted in advance to the Town of Highland Planning Board, c/o Mary Jasper, P.O. Box 415, Eldred, N.Y. 12732 and those received on or before January 7, 2015 will be read into the public record. By order of the Planning Board Mary Jasper, Secretary

Legal Notice

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THE RIVER REPORTER

34 â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

SPORTS BRIEFS

By Richard Ross sportsinsightsny.com

Northern lights

The Tri-Valley girls (1-2; 1-0 OCIAA) got their first win of the season, their first league victory with a 48-38 triumph over S.S. Seward. Caroline Martin led her team with 12 points. The win stopped a two-game losing streak that had continued with a home-opening 45-39 loss to Class B Ellenville. Meanwhile, the T-V boys improved to 2-2 (1-0 OCIAA) with a non-league 7455 win over Liberty and a dominating league win over Tuxedo. Eldredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s girls continued their local success with a 46-23-league win over Livingston Manor. They fell to Pine Plains in a nonleague game at Bard College by the score of 45-33. The Sullivan West girls eked out a dramatic 42-40 win over Chapel Field with an eleventh-hour three pointer by Alli Hemmer. The Lady Bulldogs (1-4; 0-1 OCIAA) subsequently lost a league game to Tuxedo 48-21. The Fallsburg girls improved to 5-1 (1-0 OCIAA) with a 39-37 league win over Burke. For albums of photos visit www. sportsinsights.smugmug.com.

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ULLIVAN COUNTY, NY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; There are two possible directions for teams: To head north means to be on the upswing toward success, while heading south stands for the opposite tendencies. Indeed, the ultimate goal is to reach the Northern Lights, that glowing cascade of stunning beauty, which can only be seen by teams that can survive the arduous journey to postseason brilliance. For the Monticello Panthers boys basketball team, four stunning early-season victories against larger schools have left a glow on the waning days of 2014 and may augur an even brighter path ahead for a competitive run in 2015. Following the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s victories in the Lake Region Tip-Off Classic over East Stroudsburg North and Lackawanna Trail, the Monties have added a pair of victories over larger Class AA schools in their 71-55 Jingle Ball Classic vanquishing of the Pine Bush Bushmen and this past weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 74-55 demolition of the Monroe-Woodbury Crusaders. Clearly the Monties (4-1) are heading due north. Their lone loss came against Class AA Middletown, a team many have pointed to as the sectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crown jewel. The win over the Crusaders featured 31 points from senior Devin Williams, who also thrilled the crowd with authoritative dunks, several of which were also provided by fellow senior Sha-Shawn Drayton, who posted 13 points in the win. Drayton led the way in the win over Pine Bush with 22 points.

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Not to be outdone, Monticello senior Sha-Shawn Drayton bends the rim with one of his dunks. Drayton posted 13 points as the Monties vanquished a Class AA school for the second time in a week.

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Monticelllo senior Devin Williams throws down an authoritative dunk in the Panthersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 74-55 non-league win over Class AA MonroeWoodbury. Williams posted a game-high 31 points and had a couple of crowd-pleasing dunks.

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DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014 • 35

THE RIVER REPORTER

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INGMANS FERRY, PA — Even in the depths of winter, the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has a series of entertainments planned. On Saturdays in January, starting with January 3, there will be crosscountry skiing from 9 to 11 a.m., and on Sundays starting January 4, there will be cross-country skiing from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $20 per adult, $10 per child. In these beginner ski lessons, you will learn the basics of cross-country skiing and practice on an old logging road loop. You decide how many loops to ski. Skis, poles and boots are provided; register with

your shoe size to be guaranteed a spot. If you prefer inside activities, the Ecozone Discovery Room might be more to your taste. It will be open on Saturday, January 3 from 1 to 4 p.m., and costs $2 per person. Especially child friendly, the room provides opportunities to climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave and dig in a fossil pit. Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy handson exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration is required. Visit www.peec. org, email peec@peec.org or call 570/8282319.

New Year’s Day snowshoe outing

IBERTY, NY — Catskill Mountainkeeper invites you to start off your New Year on the right foot with an afternoon of snowshoeing through Walnut Mountain Park, followed by an opportunity to warm your toes with good company, hot chocolate and a bonfire. The hike through the 265-acre park will be fully guided. The outdoor bonfire with winter treats will take place at Lazy Pond Bed & Breakfast, located just around the corner on Old Loomis Road. It will take place on Thursday, January 1 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. If you’d like a shorter outing, there will be a beginner snowshoe hike on level terrain. And for those who want more, bundle up for a hike to the top with members

of the Renegades Mountain Bike Club. Participants will receive a Walnut Mountain packet from Liberty Parks and Recreation with a map of the trails and some historical facts. Snowshoe rentals are available through Morgan Outdoors. Call Lisa to reserve in advance 845/439-5507. The event is sponsored by Trailkeeper.org, with experienced staff from Trailkeeper partner groups, and co-sponsored by Lazy Pond B&B and Liberty Parks and Recreation. To register and for more information, contact Erin Burch at Catskill Mountainkeeper 845/707-1326 or erin@ catskillmountainkeeper.org; or Lisa Lyons at Morgan Outdoors 845/439-5507 by December 31.

PA discounts fishing licenses

ENNSYLVANIA — The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) has a special holiday value for the 2015 fishing season. For the first time in the commission’s history, the prices of fishing licenses are being reduced. Throughout the month of December, anglers who buy a three-year or five-year multi-year fishing license will receive $3 and $5 off their license purchase. But this

deal is only good through the month of December. Especially important for the upcoming holiday season is that these same discounts apply to fishing license gift vouchers, making them great gifts for family and friends. Anglers can purchase licenses and gift vouchers online at www.GoneFishingPa.com or at any one of the more than 900 licensing agents across the state.

SOUNDINGS: taking the pulse of the Upper Delaware Watershed High gage mark, feet 12/17 12/18 12/19 12/20 12/21 12/22

3.77 4.00 3.86 3.75 3.68 3.63

High water temperature °F 12/17 12/18 12/19 12/20 12/21 12/22

38.66 37.22 35.42 34.16 34.34 34.70

Actual and avg. precipitation NYC watershed

Reservoir levels December 22, 2014 Cannonsville: 53.4% Pepacton: 64% Neversink: 74.1% Total: 71.9% Normal Total: 85.5% Total in 2013: 81.3%

Actual: Historical avg:

Inches

River readings at Callicoon, NY

*to date Sept. Sept

Oct. Oct

Nov. Nov

Dec.* Dec

36 â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 25 - 31, 2014

THE RIVER REPORTER

A white Christmas or not?

RIVER TALK

By Scott Rando

s I write this, it is a week before Christmas, and as I look out the window at 8 a.m., it is 36 degrees outside and the snow cover can best be described as â&#x20AC;&#x153;scattered to brokenâ&#x20AC;? here in Shohola, PA. Some mild weather has arrived since our last big snowstorm, and depending where you are, you may have more or less snow on the ground at your location. The chances of seeing a white Christmas are somewhat up in the air as of this writing, with the 10-day forecast calling for some snow showers on the 21st and a more significant storm on Christmas Day, which is forecast to start out as rain. Again, location will determine how much, if any snow arrives by Christmas. A longer-range winter forecast, issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), calls for slightly warmer than normal temperatures, and slightly more precipitation than normal. It appears from the forecast that we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the bitterly cold temperatures of last year; this forecast was issued on October 16, so conditions may vary. If it does or doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t snow on Christmas Day, take extra care if you drive somewhere during the holidays. The images in this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s column are from the couple of snows we had last month. Enjoy, no matter what the weather may be Christmas Day. Above all, no matter what holiday you may celebrate this time of year, on behalf of folks at The River Reporter, we wish you a happy, safe, and peaceful holiday season.

TRR photos by Scott Rando

This doe posed for a photo near my front door as I went out to shovel snow during the preThanksgiving storm that occurred on November 26. Most places around Shohola got around 10 to 12 inches.

Wind blowing through the trees after an early November snowstorm has caused a â&#x20AC;&#x153;sun showerâ&#x20AC;? of snow near this woodland path. Heavy snow can bring down branches and utility lines, but in this case, just provided lots of snow glittering in the sun.

Flowing water over rocks in Walker Lake Creek formed a mosaic of frozen bubbles near the downstream side of a boulder. Creeks and waterfalls are a good place to find a myriad of ice formations.

HEALTH

Thank You Thunderheads

The River Reporterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monthly health section connects readers with the latest in healthy living, diet and exercise trends. /RRN IRU WKH KHDOWK VHFWLRQ HYHU\ Č´UVW ZHHN RI WKH PRQWK

To advertise in the health section contact Tanya Hubbert | 845.252.7414 ext. 34

MISSION

No child in Thunder Country should be without a toy for the holidays!

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