December 31, 2015 - January 6, 2016 by Stuart Communications

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

Vol. 41 No. 53

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

www.riverreporter.com

$1.50

Tax increase passed in Port Jervis By ANYA TIKKA

ORT JERVIS, NY — Although the year’s last meeting was cut short due to the impending winter storm, Port Jervis’s council and mayor packed in their important items about the city business. The 2016 Port Jervis budget was passed, with one member absent, and two voting “no;” they were councilmen Stan Siegel and Robert Ritchie, who both said residents could not carry the 8.45% increase. Ritchie said public-sector employees had to start paying their share for their health care, especially because private-sector workers are doing that. Siegel explained that he, together with Frank Bell, who’s also the council’s financial committee chair, represented probably the least affluent wards, and they could not afford the increase. “I get many calls,” he said, “more than anyone here, except the mayor.” Bell said, “This is a different budget from the hearing. We found some different areas that needed money. We added at least $26,000 to the budget that was given to us. We made up all that, plus a little bit more, to bring it down from what the mayor gave us. He cut it down to an 8.9% increase from 17% plus.” He thanked the different department heads who came to the budget meeting, and praised them for coming through with cooperation for the budget. Mayor Kelly Decker also thanked the public for

TRR photo by Anya Tikka

Mayor Kelly Decker poses with Port Jervis’s departing councilmen: Kevin Cunningham, Gerry Oney, Rob Waligroski and Carl Hendrick.

NEWS: Year in review

coming out to the meetings and for their input. “I have concerns for our city upkeep,” he said. “There’s no balance in our fund balance.” He described the infrastructure work that has to be done in the city. “The underpass is an undertaking we have to do very soon. We have no money, so it has to be a bond project, anywhere from half a million to a million. One of the things the city has to start considering is putting money away for projects. It’s been nothing for a long time; that’s why we’ve fallen into the disarray we are in.” He continued, “Nobody likes to pay taxes.” He pointed out the strain for families, and stressed, “We have to look for alternative revenues, to create jobs, so we can take that burden out from the taxpayer. We cannot rely on grants from the state or federal government.” Ritchie added, “We have to promote the City of Port Jervis, find people. In the past, we’ve always waited for businesses to come back to us. My priority for the next few years is to seek businesses. Another concern for me is health care; everybody should pay something. In the last few years, the city has seen increases. We really have to look at it, look into alternatives, and everyone has to chip in to move forward in order not to cut services.” A possible source of new revenue got a boost when Local Law #9 was passed unanimously. It allows wholesale businesses that include retail to open in the central business district. Four councilmen—Rob Waligroski, Carl Hendrick, Gerry Oney, and Kevin Cunningham— are leaving the council at the end of the year. Decker presented them with the city keys, suncatchers made by Gillinder Glass. The councilmen thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve. Cunningham added, “Remember to listen to each other, in the best interest of the city.” The city’s parking laws were put back into effect starting late that night; they’d been suspended up until then due to the unseasonably warm weather. No parking will be allowed on the streets between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. until April 1.

OUTDOORS: Winter bird watching

TRR photo by Andy Boyar

With a lack of real snow, this synthetic snowman was a substitute for Frosty on Christmas Day in front of the Town of Highland Town Hall.

No snow in the immediate future

EGION — While the region did see an inch or so of sleet and freezing rain in the overnight hours of December 29, there has still been no significant snowfall in the Upper Delaware Valley this winter. That’s good for highway departments on both sides of the river that are saving a lot of money on salt, sand, cinders and overtime payments. According to the National Weather Service, there are no significant storms in the near future destined for this region. The service says, “For the long term, the big picture forecast models [are] in good overall agreement, showing upper level troughing over the east with ridging over the west… a pattern we haven’t really seen so far this season,” which means that temperatures in the longer run are likely to start running closer to average. The next few days are going to be partly cloudy with temperatures in the 20s at night and in the 30s during the day.

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

The River Reporter

2 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

Sullivan West measures the financial climate By LAURIE RAMIE

AKE HUNTINGTON, NY — Working without the benefit of forthcoming state aid figures, Sullivan West Central School Superintendent Dr. Nancy Hackett provided the board of education with a forecast for the district’s fiscal future on December 17. Her presentation aimed to prepare the board for its assignment, starting in January, to examine costs associated with every program and facility in order to develop a budget for the 2016-17 school year. “The board’s goal in the budget process is to provide the resources the district needs to meet the cultural expectations of the community and equitable educational opportunity for all students at a price that taxpayers can afford,” Hackett said. Out of the eight school districts in Sullivan County, Sullivan West’s current annual spending plan ranks it directly in the middle. The 2015-16 budgets are: Monticello, $82.6 million; Liberty, $43 million; Fallsburg, $40.4 million; Sullivan West, $36.1 million; Tri-Valley, $31.4 million; Eldred, $16.6 million; Livingston Manor, $15.9 million; and Roscoe, $8.3 million. The local tax levy changes for Sullivan West over the past nine years have ranged from a decrease of 5.8% in 2007-08 to an increase of 4.5% in 2008-09. This year saw an increase of .07% in the total amount of property taxes the school district had to collect to balance the budget after accounting for all other revenue sources including state aid. That tax levy is the basis for determining the tax rate for each of the towns and villages that make up the school district. Hackett said that the district has managed to contain costs and taxes in recent years through cooperative bidding, contract negotiations including personnel and transportation, and staff realignments that are considered whenever a position is vacated. State law allows a district to keep only 4% of its budget as unappropriated funds for the following year. “Beyond this 4% limit, the only way that school districts can be prepared for possible expenses beyond the approved annual school budget is through creating and maintaining reserve funds,” Hackett said. At Sullivan West, eight reserve fund accounts are established for tax certiorari judgments and claims, workers compensation benefit claims, unemployment claims, accrued employee benefits payable upon termination, retirement contributions, non-recurring repairs to capital improvements or equipment, a capital project reserve that voters must approve, and a mandatory reserve for the outstanding bond debt that resulted from the sale of the Delaware Valley building. While the amount of state aid is currently unknown, Hackett said future budget drivers include a desire to maintain the faculty, staff, programs and services the district currently has; implement new state curricula such as the Common Core and unfunded mandates; provide remedial and compensatory academic services to struggling students; retain effective instructional initiatives; and continue offering the current 17 college-level programs available to high school students. “It’s quite a wish list, isn’t it?” she said.

THE RIVER REPORTER

Wolf signs partial budget, frees funding for school services

IN BRIEF

Honesdale cop fired after allegedly assaulting a suspect HONESDALE, PA — A Honesdale police officer has been fired after allegations arose that he assaulted a suspect in a police car. Sergeant Keith Colombo allegedly arrested a DUI suspect on November 29, and handcuffed the man and placed him in the back of the cruise, but did not fasten the seatbelt. Colombo allegedly intentionally slammed on the brakes of the vehicle while it was moving, causing the man’s face to slam into the metal barrier between the front and back seats, causing his face to bleed. The borough council voted to fire Colombo, with five members voting in favor of the termination, one member voting against, and one council member abstaining. This is not the first complaint lodged against the officer; he has been caught sleeping in his patrol car more than once, and successfully sued the borough for not reimbursing him for a meal when he attended a training course in Berlin Township. Colombo may fight the termination through the police union.

White Sulphur Springs man pleads guilty MONTICELLO, NY — James Letohic, 32, of White Sulphur Springs, pleaded guilty to various charges on December 23, including robbery in the first degree and burglary in the second degree, both violent felonies. Sullivan County District Attorney Jim Farrell said Letohic is expected to be sentenced in Sullivan County Court to 11.5 years in state prison and fve years of post-release supervision. Farrell said that Letohic admitted to robbing another man by threatening him with a knife and taking $800 from him in June of 2014 in the Town of Mamakating. The victim was not injured. Letohic also admitted to burglarizing an unoccupied residence on Red Hill Road in Mamakating on June 26, 2014, and stealing appliances and copper pipe from the residence. Letohic was arrested on October 30, 2014, after an investigation by the New York State Police. Farrell said, “The sentence handed down today on this robbery and burglary underscores my commitment to holding individuals who engage in this type of behavior responsible and accountable for their actions with state prison sentences.”

HARRISBURG, PA — Republican state lawmakers left Harrisburg on the day before Christmas Eve, and left Gov. Tom Wolf with a budget—but not the one they had been negotiating for six months. On December 29, Wolf signed the budget, which will allow funding for education and social services to flow; but he also vetoed parts of it, which will force Republicans to further negotiate with him. Wolf said in a statement, “I’m vetoing their plans to cut $95 million from education. I’m also vetoing other items that they don’t pay for.” Republicans blamed Wolf for plunging the state into a budget crises. Republicans in the Senate found a way to compromise with Wolf, but could not bring along Republicans in the House, so in the final days, the Republicans in the Senate switched strategies and went along with the House. Sen. Lisa Baker issued a statement saying, “From my standpoint, passage of this partial state budget was not designed to be the end of the process. This was an emergency move that at least ends the disruption and uncertainty for the majority of program providers and service recipients, who can begin receiving badly needed state and federal funding, now six months overdue. There still appears to be substantial negotiation required to reach agreement on final spending levels, revenues to support that spending, formulas for distributing money fairly, and the biggest challenge of all, pension reform.”

Delaware Highlands Conservancy holds eagle tours UPPER DELAWARE VALLEY — Delaware Highlands Conservancy and its partners announced a series of eagle-watching events all winter long, including guided bus tours and the third annual Eagle Day at the Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center. Bus tours are scheduled on multiple weekends throughout January and February. You can learn from an expert guide and take a scenic drive on a heated bus throughout the Upper Delaware River region to look for and learn about bald eagles and their habitat. Seats on trips are limited, and reservations are required (the fee is $15 for members, $20 for non-members). Call the conservancy at 570/226-3164 or 845/5831010 or email info@delawarehighlands.org to register; the dates are January 16, January 30, February 6 and February 13.

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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 © 2015 by Stuart Communications, Inc.

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 3

THE RIVER REPORTER

Emergency HEAP program to open

ONTICELLO, NY — The Emergency Component of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) opens on Monday, January 4, 2016. If a resident has already received a Regular HEAP benefit for the 2015-2016 season, the resident may be eligible for another benefit under the emergency component of HEAP. Regular component benefits must be exhausted first to be eligible for the heating emergencies component for eligible households. Emergency benefits are available to assist eligible households in resolving heating, heat-related electric and energy-related temporary housing emergencies. An applicant must be in an emergency situation defined as one of the following:

1) Less than one-quarter tank of oil, kerosene, or propane 2) Less than a 10-day supply of any other deliverable fuel source 3) The natural gas or electric service for heat or heatrelated electric service is terminated or scheduled for termination 4) There is a need of a propane tank deposit to obtain a new propane tank and set it up due to a supplier’s termination of an account 5) There is a need of temporary relocation due to an energy-related emergency Monthly income eligibility is up to $2,244 for a household of one and is increased by $690 for each additional

member of the household. To be eligible for an Emergency HEAP benefit, the applicant must be the customer of record, meet the monthly income eligibility, not have available liquid resources greater than $2,000 (or $3,000 if the household contains an individual age 60 or older), and meet all other non- financial requirements. The heating emergency benefits are $350 for natural gas heat only, $490 for electric heat and natural gas with domestic electric, $500 for wood, pellets, coal, or corn, and $575 for oil, kerosene, or propane. There is a benefit of $140 available for heat-related electric emergencies. Additionally, there are benefits available for temporary relocation and propane tank deposits.

Sullivan approves $75,000 in additional legal fees Cost of Bloomingburg vote litigation expected to soar By FRITZ MAYER

ONTICELLO, NY — A number of lawsuits regarding voting in the Village of Bloomingburg have been sparked with the creation of the development called Villages at Chestnut Ridge, being marketed to the Hasidic community. One of the lawsuits was brought in federal court by developer Shalom Lamm against the Sullivan County Board of Elections, saying there was misconduct in one or more of the elections in which he was involved. As one of the last acts of the outgoing Sullivan County Legislature, lawmakers

considered a request from the county attorney’s office to spend up to $75,000 in legal fees for outside law firms. Legislator Kitty Vetter expressed concern that the original limit was set at $50,000, and “now we’re upping that fee.” Sam Yasgur, the county attorney, responded saying, “and probably upping it again, very candidly. This developed in a very short period of time; it was the court’s direction.” He said a massive search was performed and turned up more than 50,000 documents. He said, “When you’ve got 50,000 documents that must be gone through by hand to determine whether they have any privileged or confidential information,

that would permit the county to withhold them… we simply do not have the kind of resources to do that within… the 10-day to two-week timeframe” that was ordered by the federal court. The documents were given to a firm that specializes in handling large numbers of documents. Yasgur further explained, “I find it, in some respects, as offensive as everybody at this table does to spend that kind of money, but I have no control over that. When we’re engaged in a federal lawsuit, and the plaintiffs take advantage, which they have every right to do, of electronic discovery, which is what happened here, and when a federal judge sets an extreme-

ly tight time limit, we have no choice. If we don’t comply, we’ll be in real trouble.” Asked if it wouldn’t be cheaper to pay damages and settle the lawsuit, Yasgur replied that this is not a “payment lawsuit.” He said, “This is a lawsuit claiming the county engaged in improper practices with regards to an election in Bloomingburg,” and it has to defend it. He said the cost of the lawsuit is likely to go much higher than the $75,000 he was requesting now, but if he tried to estimate the cost he would be misleading the legislature because there was no way for him to know what the final cost might be.

Cocchi steps down, dangerous buildings discussed By ANYA TIKKA

ACKAWAXEN, PA — At Lackawaxen Township’s last meeting of the year, Supervisors Chair Robert Cocchi said his goodbyes, including his good wishes for Mike Mancini, who’s taking over. “I hope you’ll treat him as well as you’ve treated me. It’s been an honor to serve you.” Residents expressed appreciation for Cocchi. Marge Wasamer said, “You were always fair and treated us with respect, and we haven’t always shown it and have not always agreed. You’ve done a very good job.” Township solicitor Anthony Waldron reported about Shawn Marie Roe, the township secretary who was arrested last year for embezzling $222,242 during her duties over 10 years. Most of the money has already been recovered through insurance, with some $10,000 remaining. Cocchi was instrumental in catching her, Mancini explained after the meeting. Waldron said, “It’s highly likely we’ll get reimbursement with $3,000 attorney’s fee as well.” Huge applause erupted after comments about the reimbursement. Another resident posed a question, “Is there a way to go back and sue?” Waldron explained that in reality, the township would be throwing good money after bad with the cost of the lawsuit, and the possible payment schedule that could

come to nothing, or very little per month. probably enforce them to clean up.” Another issue that raised tempers was the The speaker said he thought it was lip serstate of some of the township houses that vice, and wanted to know how long he and have fallen into disrepair, and others where others had to wait. improvements have been made without propWaldron said, “If the court issues an order, er permits and not conforming to ordinances. it has to be cleaned up within a certain date, A man who didn’t want to have his name otherwise they’re in contempt. We’ll have to in print talked about the hardship of living prove it to the court, but if there’s a court orTRR photo by Anya Tikka der, usually it happens in one or two months. close to one of the properties. “Next door are three buildings with up- Outgoing Supervisors Chair We’ve done that before. “ Bob Cocchi, left, township grades with no permits. I know it’s illegal, it’s Wasamer also commented on the state of solicitor Anthony Waldron and supposed to be 75 feet from the border to put Supervisor Mike Mancini, who properties in town, “If it’s not safe, what a property structure. He’s got poop, birds in will take over from Cocchi in does the homeowner do about it? One house there. You want to stop bird flu here. That’s 2016, examine maps during has the door falling off. Do we do anything what he has.” the December 16 Lackawaxen about it?” The township has brochures about combat- Township meeting. Waldron said that if a property is dangering the spread of bird flu prominently disous, falling down, or about to cause problems played in the entry hall. The man said the property in to children, the town could meet with the owner and requestion is on Church Road. quire them to restore the building, and if not, to tear it “It’s just not good, and I spoke to you years ago about it. down. “If it’s not going to structurally fall down, just It’s so frustrating, just wrong. He said he’ll clean it up, board it up. Give a notice to the people.” He continued that every time he says he will—but he doesn’t. If you want to if the setbacks regarding zoning are not up to code, the have junk cars, put them in the back. It’s just wrong, I’m town can make owners comply. sure there’s an ordinance.” Mancini promised to talk and to send a letter to the Mancini said, “I think we’ve had some personnel there owner informing him that he has to do something about within the last two weeks, and as time goes on, we’ll the property in question.

4 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

THE RIVER REPORTER

2015 Year in Review A look back on some of the top stories from this past year Compiled by ISABEL BRAVERMAN

Contributed photo

Nadia Rajsz, center, won the District Two seat in the Sullivan County Legislature. She ran on the Republican line, but is a registered Democrat. Rajsz is pictured here with other legislature Democrats Cora Edwards, left, Gene Benson and Cindy Gieger.

The year in politics Local elections were held this year in Sullivan County in New York and Wayne and Pike counties in Pennsylvania. Of note is the election of the Sullivan County Legislature. The legislature consists of nine seats, and all but one were up for election (District One’s Scott Samuelson ran unopposed). The results are that six of the nine county seats will be held by new legislators this year. One of the more significant races was in legislative District Two. In that race, Kathy LaBuda, the longest-serving member of the legislature, was bested by Nadia Rajsz with a margin of 952 to 789. Rajsz was the supervisor of the Town of Lumberland. In Pike County in Pennsylvania, Democrat Karl Wagner decided not to run again for his seat as county commissioner and is retiring. He is being replaced by Democrat Steven R. Guccini. Voters returned Republicans Rich Caridi and Matt Osterberg to their seats in Milford. The fierce battle for the position of Pike County District Attorney played out between Republican Ray Tonkin and Republican Kelly Gaughan. Although Gaughan won the Republican primary, Tonkin took the Democratic nomination and held onto his seat. He will now most likely be the person who will prosecute accused cop killer Eric Frein.

Absentee ballots at issue It seems that controversy regarding voting in Sullivan County has popped up every year in recent years. In 2013, the issue concerned seasonal co-ops in Cochecton; in 2014 votes in Bloomingburg were called an attempt to stuff the

ballot box in favor of developer Shalom Lamm. Now, absentee ballots are being questioned in the Town of Thompson council election. Some 137 absentee ballots were challenged by council candidate Scott Mace. The voters claimed to have addresses that were located in closed bungalow colonies, and Mace’s attorneys argued that under election law these bungalow colonies could not be considered homes. Further, all of the applications for the absentee ballots were sent to a single post office box in Thompsonville, which was signed for by the owner and the manager of the Raleigh Hotel. After the unchallenged absentee ballots were counted, it turned out that Thompson council candidate Scott Mace had enough votes that the 137 challenged votes would not have altered the outcome of his victory against opponent Jay Rubin. Nevertheless, Mace plans to continue his challenge to the votes anyway. Multiple lawsuits continue regarding Bloomingburg votes.

Bridges over the Upper Delaware The Pond Eddy Bridge Timeline: Summer 2016: construction begins, includes laying rock for a causeway to the center of the river and constructing a new center pier and New York abutment Spring 2017: construction begins on the New York side truss and the relocation of material to the PA side and building of a ramp from the new bridge to a causeway Early 2018: an access road is built up to Rosa Road, where a new staging area will be located. Later in the spring, a PA abutment and truss will be built 2019: demolition of the old bridge In addition, the bridge was closed in October after a dump truck lost its brakes coming down State Route 41 and crossed the bridge. The bridge has a weight limit of seven tons, while the truck was loaded with 35 tons of sand, with a total weight of over 72,000 pounds. The truck made it over the bridge but crashed into a rock outcropping on the other side. Some damage was done; the bridge remains closed during certain times.

Photo by Isabel Braverman

The old Narrowsburg school building is now The Narrowsburg Union, owned by Brendan and Kathy Weiden. Photo by Sandy Long

The Narrowsburg School

The Skinners Falls Bridge is closed again.

After buying the old Narrowsburg school building from the initial buyer, Brendan and Kathy Weiden this year announced a re-launch of the facility as the Narrowsburg Union. In April, it was announced that it will be a project of the Sullivan County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), which means it will receive tax abatements. In November, the Weidens officially announced the new name. They said the goal of the Narrowsburg Union is to re-imagine one of Narrowsburg’s most iconic buildings as a multi-use commercial facility that builds on the existing strengths of the Upper Delaware River region and communities, while providing an environment for new ideas to germinate and flourish. They held an open house in December. The community is supportive and excited.

The Skinners Falls Bridge The Skinners Falls Bridge was closed indefinitely in December. The bridge was inspected by PennDOT and determined to be in bad shape. They said there are stringers under the bridge that are warped and twisted. The bridge had already been closed in 2012, and reopened in May of 2013. The historic bridge is 114 years old. The Narrowsburg Bridge The 1953 Narrowsburg Bridge has been reduced to a single lane. Emergency repairs were completed two years ago to address advanced deterioration of the deck, which had caused a weight limit down-posting to 15 tons on January 8, 2013. Updated plans presented in August say construction will start in spring 2017 and restore traffic to both lanes by fall of

2018. During this work, the bridge may be closed at times. The plans call for a maximum of 15 closures, which will be done during overnight hours, scheduled to avoid weekends and holidays, and publicized well in advance.

Contributed photo

The Kingfisher Project won the $5,000 Innovation Award at the Nonprofit Leadership Summit at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on March 3. Representing WJFF-Radio Catskill are Sonja Hedlund, seated left, Julie Pisall and Kevin Gref; standing are Anne Larsen, Malcolm Brown, Jason Dole, Adam Weinreich and Kit Hulit.

The heroin epidemic continues The effects of heroin are still ravaging communities. This year, new initiatives have been undertaken to combat the impact of this drug. Radio station WJFF created The Kingfisher Project in honor of 20-year-old Rebecca Pisall, who was shot and killed by her uncle as the result of a dispute over a $20 bag of heroin. The group aims to honor the lives of everyone affected by heroin, opiates or other substance abuse; keep the conversation going about heroin and drug abuse; and hold public systems accountable when it comes to legislation, policy changes, funding and other mechanisms that are in place to help control or curtail substance abuse and the crimes that go along with it. The Sullivan West Community Task Force is another group formed in 2015 to fight this problem. It includes school faculty and teachers, parents and members of the community. At another school, Eldred, drug testing is being explored after sports coach Josh Santoro pleaded that the drug problem has gotten out of hand and that there should be drug testing. Wayne and Pike counties continue their efforts to rally against the heroin epidemic. Heroin arrests continued on both sides of the river in 2015, with multiple arrests occurring in Honesdale during the year. Continued on page 5

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 5

THE RIVER REPORTER

Y Continued from page 4

One of the largest busts of the year came in May, when the Wayne County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force went to a Honesdale address and found, among other things, 114 bags of heroin and $33,704.00 in cash. District Attorney Janine Edwards also made a personal appearance at the Honesdale borough council on April 13 to convince them to allow the borough police to use Naloxone (Narcan), which can reverse the effects of a heroin or opioid overdose. After Edward’s appearance, the board reversed its earlier decision and allowed officers to carry the drug.

Photo by Fritz Mayer

People gathered in Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant to watch a live video of the New York Gaming Commission vote to award a gaming license to the Montreign Casino in the Town of Thompson.

Casino license approved Just as the casino bid was awarded to Sullivan County last year just before the close of the old year, this year, too, the license was awarded before the new year rings in. The New York State Gaming Commission met on December 21 to vote on the casino license for Montreign Casino in the Adelaar Resort in the Town of Thompson. The commission voted unanimously to approve a casino license.

Justice Network, issued a statement questioning whether the incident was an accident rather than arson. Lotorto said, “Columbia’s security personnel told concerned residents on Fire Tower Road that the fire was the result of a contractor leaving an arc welder on or plugged in inside a building. We hope investigators will pursue that lead before concluding it was an arson attack.” The case remains unsolved. The latest development is that a Pennsylvania judge on December 21 refused to dismiss a lawsuit by a small group of residents against Columbia Gas Transmission LLC. They are suing on grounds that the pipeline company did not employ industry best practices in building the station, such as electric rather than gas-fired turbines.

National Geographic with funding from the William Penn Foundation, in cooperation with the National Parks Conservation Association. It is part of National Geographic’s ongoing geotourism project, with geotourism defined as “tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the wellbeing of its residents.”

Wayne County drawdown

TRR photo by Fritz Mayer

The draining of five ponds in Wayne County sparked outrage among neighbors. Some of the neighbors’ homes had lakefront property before the draining, and were left with muddy messes afterward. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) had plans to drain five water bodies: Belmont Lake (172 acres), Hankins Pond (69 acres) and Miller Pond (61 acres) in Mount Pleasant Township; White Oak Pond (225 acres) in Clinton Township; and Lower Woods Pond (91 acres) in Lebanon Township. The dams at the five lakes were found to be deficient, and the commission had no clear plan to repair the dams. A statement on the FBC website said, “The ponds will be drawn down indefinitely until funding can be identified and secured to design and make the necessary repairs. At this point, the PFBC does not have funds committed to make repairs at the facilities.”

The Upper Delaware River

Photo by Fritz Mayer

National Geographic eyes the Upper Delaware

After much discussion, this parcel of land will become a river access site in Long Eddy.

Long Eddy river access moves forward A parcel of land near the river in Long Eddy is a proposed river access site. The plan was met with some opposition, especially from neighbors, with many saying a parking lot at the site would have a negative impact. After meetings to collect public input, a decision was reached. The Delaware Highlands Conservancy closed on the property and it will be sold to and managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Final plans had not been created by year end, but the access will include at least one handicapped accessible parking space, though parking will otherwise be limited.

TRR photo by Jessica Cohen

The Milford compressor station

Milford Compressor Station The Milford Compressor Station became the third such facility in the region to spark resistance from neighbors, primarily because of concerns about health, safety and noise. A fire at the station on August 8 was being investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police as a suspected arson. The fire resulted in an estimated $80,000 of damage to a turbine motor skid, but no one was injured. Alex Lotorto, a local resident and activist with Energy

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Swan song for Parker at DFS

The National Geographic Society began development of an interactive geotourism website that will promote the upper and middle regions of the Delaware River. This includes nine counties in three states: Sussex and Warren counties in New Jersey; Delaware, Orange and Sullivan counties in New York; and Monroe, Northampton, Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania. Both the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and the Middle Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, which includes the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, are part of the target region, which project organizers have dubbed the “Scenic, Wild Delaware River.” The website is being developed by

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The turmoil in the Sullivan County Division of Family Services (DFS) continued into 2015, with commissioner Randy Parker being fired after the botched roll-out of the Home Energy Assistance Program in 2014. After his firing, Legislator Cindy Gieger was hit with ethics charges, which in her view were prompted by her seeking information about some specific county contracts. The complaints were withdrawn by two prominent county employees, but two more were lodged; one by the ethics board itself and one by fellow legislator Kathy LaBuda. In the end the ethics board decided not to pursue the complaints and they were dropped.

RIVER REPORTER

845/252-7414

6 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

THE RIVER REPORTER

EDITORIAL

The Sullivan battle against waste, fraud and abuse

he last four years at the Sullivan County Legislature have been truly interesting to watch. The legislature that took office in January 2012 included six new members out of a total of nine—the same situation, incidentally, that the new legislature faces in 2016. The 2012 legislature faced a $5 million budget gap, and the lingering, crippling effects of the Great Recession. Against this backdrop, in 2012, the legislature launched a campaign to root out “waste, fraud and abuse” from the Sullivan County Division of Family Services (DFS) and its clients. As the chair of the Health and Family Services Committee, legislator Cindy Gieger played a significant role in that effort, as well as pushing many other reforms, such as reducing the number of homeless people living in motels. With Randy Parker, the new commissioner of the DFS, at the helm, the battle against waste, fraud and abuse took off at a breathtaking pace. By July of 2014, 64 arrests had been made, and a seemingly endless stream of press releases came from various police departments detailing welfare fraud arrests. Four of the arrests were of DSF employees for what Parker’s lawyer would later write in a press release “creating fictitious or non-entitled recipients or vendors.” Those four arrests eventually lead to guilty pleas, and it is therefore hard to argue that significant problems did not exist in DFS. Still, almost inevitably with that kind of crackdown, animosity toward Gieger and Parker began to grow among some members of the county workforce. More than 40 complaints were lodged against Parker by employees. Within a few months, Parker went from being seen as a hero who had helped save the county large amounts of money, to a villain who mistreated employees and withheld services from people who needed and deserved them. Still, the legislature voted five to four in the

summer of 2014 to block the county manager from spending $175,000 to investigate Parker. When DFS botched the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) in the brutally cold fall of 2014, however, it became fairly clear that Parker’s days were numbered— although in the end, he was not fired for mistreating employees or the public, but reportedly for improperly spending money on a DFS event. In what appears to be a related issue, at least to some of us on the outside looking in, ethics complaints were lodged against Gieger by two prominent county employees after Gieger sought information about specific county contracts. When those employees withdrew their complaints, new complaints were filed against Gieger by the ethics board itself and by legislator Kathy LaBuda. Gieger was accused, among other things, of releasing confidential information, which she said was not confidential. In any case, Gieger decided not to run for office again. The string of welfare fraud arrests evaporated, the elections came and went, and Gieger never got the information she was seeking about the contract, and was banned by the county manager from speaking to county employees. At the final legislative meeting of the current legislature, on December 17, Gieger accused the ethics board of not following the rules. She said the board took six months to make a determination on her case, when it should have been done within 60 days. She said all of the complaints against her had been dropped. LaBuda said, instead, that there was insufficient information to move forward with the complaints. Legislator Kitty Vetter made a motion that the ethics board be “suspended” until such time as the members could receive formal training. Members of the county legal team said that was not a legitimate thing to do, because to change the local law that created the ethics board would require a public hearing, which was not

DR. PUNNYBONE

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Good resolutions are simply cheques that men draw on a bank where they have no account.” — Oscar Wilde

Welcome 2016 LETTER TO THE EDITOR Thanks for a successful outreach season As the magic of the holiday season ends, our thoughts turn to our neighbors who were in need of assistance this holiday season. We wish to express our appreciation for all those special people who adopted families and to those who made generous donations to the St. Francis Xavier Outreach Program. We would also like to express gratitude to the members of the Outreach Program committee. We also want to send a special thank you to The River Reporter staff for all the publicity during the holiday season. If it weren’t for them, these programs would not have been so successful. We would like to wish everyone a healthy and happy new year. Bob and Barbara Drollinger Narrowsburg, NY

Happy U Near!

possible at this late date. The resolution was amended to one recommending that the new legislature take a look at the current ethics law and consider, perhaps in consultation with the members of the ethics board, whether the law should be amended. The vote passed by the same five to four split that blocked the county manager from spending $175,000 to investigate Parker in the summer of 2014. After all of this, it is possible to believe that all of the current legislators wanted to do the right thing most of the time. But it is also possible to believe that there was at least the appearance of political motivation in the way Gieger was treated. Let’s hope that for the next four years, following the election of six new members (again), there is a clearer unanimity of purpose in the legislature with regard to the elimination of waste, fraud and abuse.

By Eileen Barwick Off with the old, welcome the new. let’s hope our skies will always be blue Forget about yesterday, think only of tomorrow. Think about upcoming pleasure, forget the sorrows. 2016 can be your year to glow! So get ready, get set—let’s go! [Eileen Barwick lives in Smallwood, NY.]

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 7

THE RIVER REPORTER

VIEWS FROM THE TRAIN

By Tom Caska

Photo by Lynn Guiser

Change By LYNN GUISER I don’t want another river I don’t need another bridge Love all your special places Hear my name—a privilege

Gentle in the summer Brown grass covers in the cold Hide under winter coat ‘Til ice lets go of its stronghold

Since the day I was delivered Gently held my heart to yours Then, you blessed it with a kiss Like a priestess reassures

I like, when you are on your way There is no turn upstream When you start, you finish To the end, follow your dream

My soul was then united You are in my life to stay I don’t want a different river I like this one’s lovely sway

Show up, and then, you weep with me Take my tears ‘round every bend Take them fast through roaring rapids Heal them under sunlight when the current ends

You change with every season Every single storm Irritable in springtime Swell, and lose your ideal form

I don’t want another river You are perfect as the sky Decades in this relationship My spirit is satisfied

[Lynn Guiser is a resident of Damascus, PA.]

[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.]

The Holiday Express

s luck would have it, I got out early on Friday two weeks before Christmas and could catch the first getaway train to Port Jervis, the 4:05 out of Hoboken. This unseasonable weather we have been having made this a great night to get some shopping in, but my heart was just not in it. Something about Christmas in the Upper Delaware Valley to me means cold noses, rosy cheeks, running from store to store with just my red wool scarf around my neck. For most of this season I have found myself still in short-sleeve shirts at work. But no matter; I had my shopping list in hand determined to make the best of it once I was off the train. There was a good crowd of families waiting to board the train with me at the stop in Secaucus: parents with bags of presents already wrapped and heading to the country for a visit, maybe to see Grandma and Grandpa before the big day the following week. Blended families, as they are these days, cannot always celebrate on the day, and Christmas is sometimes a three-week celebration. The kids are always excited for a train ride, hoping to see snow when they get up north. I am not a frequent rider of this train during this season, so little did I know the treat in store for these kids. Apparently, as a way of giving back, the regular riders of this train have made a tradition of collecting candy and small toys especially for the two Friday trips before Christmas. They have enlisted the service of the two regular conductors in their plan. We pulled out of the Secaucus station. The next stop is 35 minutes away. During this time, Santa and his elves put their plan into motion. The train whistle blew four very long blasts, and the conductor came on the mic to say in a thunderous voice, “Ho ho ho, Merry Christmas, boys and girls, welcome aboard the Holiday Express! Stay right in your seats; we have a surprise for you.” You could see the eyes light up on every child as they sat up in their seats looking in all directions. Next I heard sleigh bells and Christmas music. As the doors opened, four passengers dressed in elf headgear and holiday red sweaters come busting into the car, followed closely by both conductors dressed in Santa outfits. The first two elves carried a music box and were ringing huge silver sleigh bells, the largest I have ever seen. The next two elves handed out little holiday bags with candy to every boy and girl on the train. The Santas followed up along these lines, each trying to outdo the other with his version of Santa’s laugh, his signature “Ho ho ho.” These conductors were a good team, working the cars one to the left and one to the right to make sure each kid got a present. Color-coded wrapping paper helped Santa make sure his gift found the right mark. This treat went off without a hitch, and before you knew it they were out of the car and off to the next, all the way to the back of the train and then out of sight. They did not come back for an encore; they were not seen again in the cars at all. At the first stop they were both standing on the platform back in uniform, saying good night to the passengers as they disembarked. This is true Christmas magic in this day and age; it’s nice to see some traditions are still being perpetuated. I guess it’s always politically correct to put a smile on a person’s face, even if it’s only for one station stop. From my family to yours, happy holidays, merry Christmas and all the best for a wonderful new year.

8 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

DEATH NOTICES Debra A. Hall Debra A. Hall, a detective corporal with the Sullivan County Sheriﬀ’s Oﬃce with almost 20 years of dedicated service, died at her home on December 20, 2015 surrounded by her family. She was 57. Funeral services were held on Monday, December 28 at the Calkins Baptist Church, 527 Calkins Road in Milanville, PA. Burial followed in the Calkins Cemetery in Milanville. Donations can be made to the SCPBA, PO Box 526, Rock Hill, NY 12775.

Corey Michael Wells Corey Michael Wells of Equinunk, PA died Friday, December 18, 2015. He was 27. The funeral was held on Saturday, December 26 at Teeters’ East Chapel, 505 Church St., Hawley, PA. Private cremation will be held at Lake Region Crematory, Lake Ariel. Donations can be made to Vera Halstead, c/o The Dime Bank, to assist the family with expenses.

COMMUNITY ACHIEVERS Dixon gets excellence award at Wayne

THE RIVER REPORTER

Making a joyful noise at Cooke elementary

ONTICELLO, NY — On December 18, George L. Cooke Elementary School’s family and friends gathered to watch and listen to Kindergarten through grade-five students, under the aegis of music teacher Dawn Clayton, perform their annual winter concert. Kindergarten students sang “Cancion de la Navidad” and “This Little Light of Mine,” as well as a scarf dance. First-graders sang “My Little Dreidl” and “Chime In,” and second- and third-graders sang songs including “Listen to the Jingles” and “The Little Snow Flake.” Fourth-grader Ethan Miros did a solo of “Jingle Bells” on his electric guitar and fifth-grader Erin Brawley did a solo of “The Little Drummer Boy” on the piano.

‘Winter Reflections’ at Universalist meeting BEACH LAKE, PA — Pat Sanders will lead a service centered on reflections on the poem “Winter,” by Greta Crosby, at the meeting of the Upper Delaware Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on Sunday, January 3 at 10:15 a.m. at the Berlin Township Community Center. Sanders will discuss the poem as a metaphor for the possibilities that open to us again and again throughout the years of our lives, if only we will slow down long enough to experience the season. She will also tie this theme in with the winter solstice. The program will be followed by a social time with refreshments, and that will be followed by the annual membership meeting of the fellowship, to which all are invited. For directions visit www.uduuf.org/directions.

Free sustainable energy sessions Contributed photos

Fourth-grade students at George L. Cooke Elementary School in Monticello sing “Winter Wonderland” at the school’s winter concert.

HONESDALE, PA — Lewis J. Critelli, president and chief executive officer of Wayne Bank, right, recently presented Kayla Dixon with Wayne Bank’s Presidential Award for Excellence. This award is presented to Wayne Bank employees who show exceptional levels of dedication and service in their poContributed photo Kayla Dixon sitions with the bank. Dixon began her career with Wayne Bank in January 2012 as a teller in the Waymart Community Office and was promoted to head teller the following year. In August of 2014, Dixon joined the retail lending department and works as a consumer loan representative at the main office in Honesdale. Critelli said, “ I am delighted to present the Presidential Award for Excellence to Kayla Dixon, for her hard work in supporting our rapidly growing indirect loan portfolio as well as maintaining an outstanding level of customer service.”

Ethan Miros performs a Jingle Bells solo on his electric guitar.

Verderber named to President’s List DAMASCUS, PA — Kimberly Verderber has been named to the President’s List at Lackawanna College for the past semester. Kimberly is the daughter of Michael and Nina Verderber of Damascus, and she will be attending Luzerne County Community College in the spring semester for a nursing degree. The letter Kimberly received from Mark Volk, president of the college, said in part, “As you well know, making the list is no easy task. By dedicating your- Contributed photo self, you have gone a long way toward en- Kimberly suring that your future will be a bright Verderber one. The effort you are making will pay tremendous rewards throughout your lifetime. Keep up the great work!”

COMMUNITY CURRICULUM

Cooke fourth graders play recorders to accompany the third-grade small solo group, performing “Oh Come Little Children.”

HAWLEY, PA — On the first Thursdays of January, February and March, SEEDS will present free sustainable energy forums and dinner to members of the Wayne Pike Building Industry Associates in the Hawley Senior Community Center at 337 Park Pl., on the corner of Bingham Park. SEEDS is a local non-profit organization that promotes renewable energy and energy efficiency in our region. On Thursday, January 7, presenters will discuss solar energy: how it works and how much it costs. On February 4, speakers will discuss designing and building for maximum energy efficiency. This session will be pertinent to new construction as well as retrofits. On March 3, the topic will be ground- and air-source heat pumps, and the efficiency advancements of mini-split HVAC technology in just the past few years, making them ideal for more buildings. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. Presentations will be from 6 to 7 p.m. with a Q&A session to follow. Presenters include Peter Vargo of Nu-Tech Energy Solutions and two local solar installers: Gordon Smith of Renewable Energy Solutions and Blair Buselli of Buselli Solutions. The programs are free to members of the builders association. If you are not a member and would like to join, call 570/226-4941. If you are not a member and are interested in attending, email jocelyn@seedsgroup.net or call 570/245-1256.

Solar leases for farms LIBERTY, NY — Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County will present a program titled “Solar Leases: Are They Right for Your Farm?” on Friday, January 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The seminar is free. Lunch will be provided, sponsored by the Farm Bureau of Sullivan County. Are you a farmer or landowner in Sullivan County who recently received an informational packet from Cypress Creek Renewable Energy? Are they interested in leasing your land for solar? Then attend this educational session before signing any lease so that you can make an informed decision. Stephen Stuart from Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development will discuss the different aspects of leasing your property for solar through private companies, along with the NY Sun Initiative and other alternative funding programs. Ed Homenick, director of Sullivan County Real Property Tax Services, will discuss the potential tax implications. There will also be an attorney on hand to discuss the legal side of solar leases. The workshop is supported by the County of Sullivan, Farm Bureau, Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development and the Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District. Pre-registration is required. Call 845/292-6180 or email sullivan@cornell.edu.

THE RIVER REPORTER

LAKE HUNTINGTON NEWS

By Eileen Hennessy

LOOKING BACK

ORGANIZATIONAL NEWS

By Ann O’Hara

Hope Farm to be established at SUNY Sullivan

hope you all enjoyed your Christmas. I was down in Queens with my sister and her family. We spent a few days in the city. She did not let us stop for one minute; we walked and walked and sweated, it was so hot and muggy. On Christmas Eve we watched ice skating; it was puddle skating. We saw “The Lion King,” we went to see a Welsh children’s Christmas play (all poetry)—been there, never need to do that again. We had been trying to get into St. Patrick’s since October but could not get tickets, so my sister took us to the Church of St. Mary the Virgin. It was a High Mass: 12 priests, everything was sung and so much incense I could not breathe. When you went up to receive Communion, you had to go to the communion rail and kneel; you got bread not a wafer. Other things were different from what I am used to, too. That got me thinking, and I looked at my sister and asked, “What kind of church is this?” She started to laugh and said, “Episcopalian.” She got a punch in the arm. Two hours and it was not even a Catholic church. Tax bills are in the mail. I needed to have them done so I can spend my birthday with my sister and friends. Works out great for me to get them out before the 30th. Yes, December 30 I will be 56. During the month of January I will be at the town hall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. You can always call me at 845/932-8360, ext. 17 to make arrangements to meet me there at another time or on a Saturday. The best way to get me is by e-mail at taxcollec tor@thetownofcochectonny.org All your tax information is available on line at www.taxlookup.net; click on “Sullivan,” then “Cochecton.” If you moved, or sold your house, or paid off your mortgage, you need to call the assessor, Lorry King, at extension 12 for an address change and to update your information. Supervisor Gary Maas hopes that everyone had a very merry Christmas, and wishes all a happy and healthy new year. He would like to remind you that you can get a lot of information at the town website, www.townofcochectonny.org. The Cochecton Youth Group event calendar is also up on the town website. On New Year’s Day, the Lake Huntington Fire Company is holding a chicken barbeque at 3 p.m., take-out only, for $10 each. See a fireman for tickets or contact Betty at 845/932-8378 or RuthAnne at 9328514. Please come out and help support our local fire department. Please keep the family of Grace VanHulsteyn in your thoughts and prayers. Grace passed away. Have a great week and email leeniebeans@citlink.net or call 845/252-3568 if you have news.

Contributed photo

orn in Otsego County, NY in 1806, Alanson Blood arrived in Honesdale, PA in 1828 with his brother Nelson and immediately set up in business as a cabinetmaker, making both furniture and coffins. Blood married Chloe Stone, also of Otsego County, and Nelson married her sister. Soon after his arrival in Honesdale, Alanson Blood became active in establishing the Presbyterian church, and in 1840 he petitioned the council to purchase the borough’s first fire engine. In 1829, Alanson built a house on Upper Front (Main) Street, where he lived the rest of his life. Nelson Blood died at sea in 1837 on a voyage from New Orleans to New York. Chloe Blood died in 1882, but until his death in 1885, Alanson imagined that she was simply visiting distant relatives. The Wayne County Historical Society owns several pieces of Alanson Blood furniture that reveal his artistry in a way no words can convey. From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society 810 Main St., Honesdale, open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., January through April.

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY — On Monday, December 21, administrators from both SUNY Sullivan and New Hope Community signed a memorandum of understanding to establish Hope Farm on the college campus. The signing took place at the Paul and Harold Gold Founder’s Hall at SUNY Sullivan. Hope Farm will be a two-acre farm that will serve as a farm-to-table cooperative, producing food through sustainable farming techniques that improve and protect the health of the earth and its inhabitants. The farm will provide applied learning opportunities such as field work, internships and service learning projects for SUNY Sullivan students. One of the main goals of the project will be to educate SUNY Sullivan students, New Hope individuals and community members about the process and cultivation of food. New Hope Community, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Loch Sheldrake dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Founded in 1962, SUNY Sullivan is a two-year community college and a part of the State University of New York.

Sullivan County South Florida reunion BOYNTON BEACH, FL — A Florida reunion for former or part-time residents of Sullivan County has been scheduled for Sunday, February 14, 2016 at Benevenuto’s Catering Hall, 1730 N. Federal Hwy. in Boynton Beach. All reservations must be made by January 26, 2016. There will be lots of socializing, prizes, food and camaraderie. A cash bar will open at 10:30 a.m., and luncheon will start at 11:30 a.m. The cost per person is $35, including tax and gratuities. Contact Charlotte Rubin at 561/731-3477 or Sherry Blanck at 376-3877 if you are interested in attending.

Valentine cabaret auditions

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 9

URLEYVILLE, NY — The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop will hold auditions for its Valentine cabaret on Saturday, January 2 and Sunday, January 3, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sullivan County Museum. The cabaret will take place on February 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. and February 14 at 2 p.m. Please have the sheet music for at least two songs. This year’s theme is “Love Songs and Not-Such-Love Songs.” If you have questions about the auditions, call 845/798-4971.

In addition, there are Five-Play Tickets for the SCDW’s season on sale now. Purchase a Five-Play Ticket and use it any way you want. See a single show with four friends, see a favorite show five times, or break it up any way you like. You will get five entrances during the 2016 season. Purchase by December 31 and get the special price of $65. Season and regular tickets are now available at www.showtix4u.com. Call 845/807-7212 for more information.

Contributed photo

Mistletoe Ball committee members include, from left, Alice Fino-Ewonishon, Kathy Brewington, Alison Cosham, Melissa Rickard, Martha Wilson (co-chair), Carol Sturm, Joan Buehl, Nancy Moro (co-chair) and Danielle Hedgelon. William R. Dewa III, Lisa Hutchison, Janice Pettinato, Shauna Ridd, Diane Rochelle, Lisa Semler and Ingrid Warshaw were absent for the photo.

Planning the Mistletoe Ball HAWLEY, PA — The Wayne Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will host its 75th annual Mistletoe Ball, “Puttin’ on the Glitz Diamond Jubilee,” on January 16, 2016, at The Waterfront at Ehrhardt’s. The event will feature cocktails at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and dancing to Groove Train at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $80 per person and reservations are required. For information and reservations, call 570/226-9750. Proceeds will help the hospital construct a heliport.

Programs at Jeffersonville library JEFFERSONVILLE, NY — Upcoming programs in January at the Western Sullivan Public Library in Jeffersonville will include Family Game Day and You Make It, You Take It. Family Game Day will take place on Saturday, January 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Giant Jenga, Life Size Connect 4 and All Day Uno are just a few of the choices available at Family Game Day. Snacks are provided. You Make It, You Take It will take place on Tuesday, January 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Jar up something homemade. Layer up an Asian salad with favorite ingredients, showcased with Bengali style warm chutney. Take, taste and tell about the homemade end result. Registration is required. Programs without five people pre-registered may be cancelled. For more information, call 845/4824350 for Family Game Day or 252-3360 for You Make It, You Take It,” or visit www. WSPLonline.org, find the library on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @west ernsullivan, or email kohara@rcls.org.

Philatelic society meets MONTICELLO, NY — The next meeting of the Sullivan County Philatelic Society will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 1 p.m. at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center. The meeting will feature Dan Lee, new member and guest speaker, who will discuss how to buy stamps, assisted by club president Art Rosenzweig.

10 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

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THE RIVER REPORTER

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 11

A Mediterranean Ladies Night Out

io en

g Comm r Livin un it 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.

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ORT JERVIS, NY — Bon Secours Community Hospital hosted another in the series of Ladies Night Out dinner lectures on health issues on Monday evening, December 7 at the Erie Trackside Manor. Approximately 125 guests attended the event. The topic was “Mediterranean Diet for the Holidays,” a PowerPoint presentation and cooking demonstration by representatives of Morrison Healthcare at Bon Secours Community Hospital under the direction of clinical nutrition manager Elaine Ridley, RD, CDN. Contributed photo Dietician Tanya Lopez, MS, “Mediterranean Diet for the Holidays” was the topic of a RD, CDN first put her guests at recent PowerPoint presentation and cooking demonstration ease by saying that although by representatives of Morrison Healthcare at Bon Secours she was a dietician, she had Community Hospital. Leading the presentation were sous chef begun her career as a cook, Allison Wharton, left, dietician Tanya Lopez and clinical nutrition and she wanted them to know manager Elaine Ridley. that the Mediterranean Diet was not about dieting. “This is about a ed red peppers. She also demonstrated lifestyle,” she said. “It’s good for you and unique ways to decorate that table usit tastes good.” ing common household items. All of the Lopez explained that this lifestyle apguests were served a pumpkin mousse proach to healthy eating was filled with dessert at their tables and then invited to foods including fruit, vegetables, fish, come to the presentation table and sample beans, nuts and whole grains as well as the other dishes. other ingredients shown to promote good The Ladies Night Out Program, which health like olive oil and wine in moderathe hospital has hosted for over a decade, tion along with daily physical activity. usually charges a registration fee of $15, The health benefits of the Mediterranean and all of the proceeds are donated didiet are numerous, including longevity, rectly back to the community. In a depardefense against chronic diseases, fightture from that custom during this holiing cancers, protection from diabetes, deday season, the fee was waived and guests pression and Alzheimer’s disease among were encouraged to “pay it forward” by many other ailments. contributing to a favorite charity of their Sous chef Allison Wharton put those choice. words into practice by offering a cookFor more information about Bon Secing demonstration for a holiday celebraours Community Hospital and the sertion table that included colorful vegetavices provided, visit www.bschs.bonsec ble platters and a selection of dips and ours.com or follow the hospital at www. spreads made from healthy ingredients facebook.com/bschs and www.twitter. such as black beans, eggplant and roastcom/bschs.

December 25, 2008

old time holidays

Beavers

The River Reporter

By DOROTHY HARTZ The moonlight shatters on black water where the beavers cluster close to build their dream. Fat paddles steer the broken light down stairs of broken branches across the broken stream. Tonight, they hoard in dark dens. Light! Come snow, they’ll gnaw it, glazing twig cribs with red ice. Nourished. Healed. They’ll quicken. Birth. Come slow spring, dream dissolved, kits float free, light as mice. Inside, we’ve stacked the logs and oiled our hide against the coming cold. We’ll miss them, dammed and deep asleep. Inside our prism, we’ll bide the time in heat from every beam. Log jammed, long-toothed and bottom heavy, out of sight, we, too, bear life on shards of broken light.

Copyrighted photos by David B. Soete

Continued on page 12

THE RIVER REPORTER

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 13

Happy Holidays! Carini

CARINI Pizzeria & Restaurant

Cucina & Pizzeria

Pizza • Pasta • Subs • Salads

570-296-2554

Pizza • Pasta • Subs • Salads

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

112 Kirk Road, Peck’s Plaza, Narrowsburg, NY

Carini Ristoranti BRICK OVEN PIZZA & PASTA

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

570-257-0444

845-252-3338

203 6th Street, Milford, PA 18337 Happy Holidays!

Mobile Veterinary Services

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

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

Services Provided all over Sullivan County

OPEN 7 DAYS

Merry Christmas to all our friends from the

HESSLING FAMILY, INC “Four Generations of Funeral Services” 428 Mail Street Honesdale, PA 570-253-1190

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We wish you all a Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays from the

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Happy Holidays!

14 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

Curr nts

THE RIVER REPORTER

Merrymaking Grodin headlines Laugh Tour LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY — Marion Grodin, seen on “The View,” will be the headliner when The Laugh Tour visits The Arnold House at 829 Shandelee Rd. on Saturday, January 2 at 8 p.m. The emcee will be Rich Kiamco. Grodin started out as a staff writer for the network sitcoms “It’s a Living” and “Princesses,” was put under contract to Twentieth Century Fox, and later went on to sell six screenplays. Just as she was about to embark on her seventh screenplay, it dawned on her that her father had not lovingly nicknamed her “Mouth” for nothing; she decided it was time to start saying all these funny things she was writing for other people to say. A headliner at New York City’s top clubs, like Standup NY and Gotham Comedy Club, she has also toured with Linda Ronstadt, opened for Lewis Black, Judy Gold and Robert Klein, and shared the stage with Jerry Seinfeld, Dave Chappelle, Roseanne Barr and Robin Williams. Grodin has also been seen on NBC’s “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.” For two years, Grodin also hosted her own radio show for CBS, where her guests included friends like Lisa Lampanelli, Jerry Stiller, Anne Meara, Kyra Sedgewick and Lewis Black. Tickets cost $20. To purchase, visit www.brownpa pertickets.com/event/2480511 or call 800/838-3006. Tickets may also be bought at the venue on the day of the show. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. There is no drink minimum. If you want to eat before or during the comedy show, call the Arnold House at 845/439-5070 to make a dinner reservation.

Celebrate New Year’s on Walnut Mountain

Billy Joel back-up Preston returns to Hawley

LIBERTY, NY — The public is invited to join the fourth annual New Year’s Hike/Snowshoe at Walnut Mountain on Friday, January 1 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants choose the outing that fits their level: a relaxed hike along wide, graded carriage roads or an intermediate hike that includes single-track mountain bike trails to the summit. Participants will receive a Walnut Mountain packet from Liberty Parks & Recreation with a trail map and historical facts about Walnut Mountain, including its history as a ski slope. Meet in Walnut Mountain’s large parking lot at the intersection of West Lake Street and Eagle Drive, located between routes 52 and 55. There is a large wooden park sign at the entrance. Walnut Mountain is a 265-acre town park with over 12 miles of single-track mountain bike trails built by volunteers of the regionally based Renegades Mountain Bike Club. Registration is required. Call Morgan Outdoors at 845/439-5507 by December 31 and let them know what level you prefer. Dress in layers with sturdy boots. Depending on trail conditions, ice grippers or snowshoes may be required. The event is co-sponsored by Renegades Mountain Bike Club and Morgan Outdoors, with support from Liberty Parks & Recreation. The outing will be cancelled only in extreme weather. Call 845/439-5507 for updates. For directions and more park information visit www.townofliberty.org/walnut_park.pdf.

HAWLEY, PA — Wade Preston of “Movin’ Out!,” the Broadway show, and Billy Joel’s back-up, will be featured by Harmony Presents at the Hawley Silk Mill on Saturday, January 2 at 8 p.m., delivering a show filled with Billy Joel’s most popular tunes as well as his own original compositions. “Wade is one of our repeat performers and our audiences can’t get enough of him. It’s not often a man can sit in front Contributed photo of a piano and command full attention, but Mr. Preston can Wade Preston drop a stadium full of jaws. These tickets go very fast, and depending on demand, we may open a second late show,” said Jill Carletti, managing director of Harmony Presents. Harmony Presents concerts take place in the historic Boiler Room of the Silk Mill, located on the ground floor at 8 Silk Mill Dr. Shows start at 8 p.m. and end around 10 p.m. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early for preferred seating. Cocoon Coffee House caters snacks, coffee, wine and beer onsite prior to the shows and during intermission. Tickets cost $22 and can be purchased either online at www. harmonypresents.com, or in person by visiting AMSkier Insurance at 209 Main St. during regular business hours and on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Call 570/588-8077.

Konrads Kitchen and Grill at the Crossroads

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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

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Curr nts

THE RIVER REPORTER

Open 7/365. Imaging Onsite. Convenient Locations.

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 15

URGENT CARE IS OPEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS New Year’s Eve & Day Open 8AM-6PM

Crystal Run Urgent Care is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year — now in FOUR convenient locations. With physicians on-site and access to in-house labs and diagnostic imaging, we’ll save you an unnecessary trip to the emergency room and get you back to feeling like yourself again. Because sometimes Whoops! and Whaa! just can’t wait. Rock Hill | 845.796.5444 Middletown | 845.703.6333 Monroe | 845.783.6333 Newburgh | 845.725.0111

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16 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

Curr nts

THE RIVER REPORTER

IN MY HUMBLE OPINION

Helping Hands

By Jonathan Charles Fox

May the force be with you

’d like to personally thank George Lucas, J.J. Abrams and the entire cast and crew of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” for making my holiday a little brighter. Fear not—no spoilers here, but I’m grateful that my doctor gave me the go-ahead to get out of bed and be among people, without fear of infecting an entire theater full of fans, in order that I might carry on a long-standing tradition of seeing a movie on Christmas Day. And, by choosing “Star Wars,” I feel like a kid again. Yes, I’m a fan—maybe not a crazy, obsessed uber-fan, but a fan nonetheless. I’ve seen them all, but unlike many, not interested in finding fault with the various scripts, plotlines or characters that have emerged over the years. My goal is simply to enjoy the ride as the story, which takes place “a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away,” continues to evolve. Admittedly, I was nervous when the industry giant known as Disney took over the reins of the franchise, but having seen the film, I’ve breathed a sigh of relief. Even though I’m not spoiler-alert crazy, I did want to see the movie before too many details emerged on social media, and I wanted to see it at home, here in the Upper Delaware River region—specifically at the Callicoon Theater, one of the many local spots where everybody knows your name. Honestly, where else can you call the movie theater and speak to a real person? When I dialed the theater and heard the machine pick up, I was momentarily dismayed, because I had questions I wasn’t sure would be answered. But hearing the “Force Awakens” excitement in theater owner Jim Kayton’s voice on the pre-recorded message made me smile. He and his wife Barbara are part of what makes the movie-going experience special (IMHO) on the banks of the Delaware, and I know I’m not alone in looking forward to seeing them (he sells the tickets, she makes the popcorn) whenever I stop in. After getting the recording, I dialed the alternate number provided on the website (www.callicoontheater.com), and sure enough, Jim picked up. Assuring me that they would be open on Christmas Day, we spent a few minutes extolling the virtues of all things “Star Wars,” and I proceeded to make plans with a few pals. Although I was mildly concerned that we wouldn’t get seats (the film has already made more than $1 billion), Kayton assuaged my fears and advised me that the doors would open an hour in advance. So I arrived early and spent time window shopping in Callicoon, NY, admiring the holiday lights and meeting up with my pals. Swapping stories, we reminisced about the previous six films. I recalled waiting in line for hours for the very first, which opened on my birthday in 1977. As a perfect testament to the many charms of small-town life, we ran into friends and neighbors all out for the same reason, which kicked my childlike excitement into high gear as we lined up for goodies prior to the trailers. Someone behind me (who was visiting relatives for the weekend) expressed concern that the movie would begin before our popcorn was in hand, and I turned to ask him where he was from. “I’ve never been here [Sullivan County] before,” he said,

Contributed photo

Warming hearts and hands at Cooke

Contributed photo by Jonathan Charles Fox

As folks lined up for popcorn and drinks, Callicoon Theater proprietor Jim Kayton assured everyone that “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” wouldn’t begin until we had all taken our seats. Only in the Catskills! “but it’s beautiful. I hope we make it into our seats before the movie starts.” As if on cue, Jim stepped out from behind the ticket window and addressed the sizable crowd. “Don’t worry folks, we’ll wait for everyone to be seated. You’re at the Callicoon Theater!” he smiled before returning to his post. “Only in the Catskills,” I whispered to the visitor. “You won’t find this kind of personal service anywhere else!” To make matters even more charming, I observed generations of “Star Wars” enthusiasts sharing the excitement with kids (and grandchildren) before the lights went dim and the first of many spontaneous bursts of applause rang out. While I’m aware that purists will find fault with the film, it was near-perfect as far as I’m concerned. Judging by the post-screening buzz, I’m not alone in my estimation. Many of us hung out on the sidewalk after the film and discussed its merits, the subtle nuances that point to the earlier incarnations and the just-plain-fun aspects that are found throughout. These include the appearances of original cast members and the new characters that will be seen again in the next installment, slated for my birthday (yay!) in 2017. Observing one of the kids playing with a “Force Awakens” toy that Santa had brought him earlier in the day, I felt the urge to inform him that when I was his age “my only toy was a stick and a piece of string.” While his dad laughed, the young man looked at me like I belonged in the Star Wars Cantina along with the rest of the weirdos. While loath to admit it, I felt a tiny surge of jealousy over the plaything, and vowed to get myself a toy. If seeing the film made me feel like a kid again, that’s a plus as far as I’m concerned. If you’re planning to go yourself, I would suggest seeing “The Force Awakens” in your own neck of the woods. If you’re lucky, your neighborhood is close to Callicoon!

MONTICELLO, NY — The George L. Cooke Elementary School has reached out to inspire others with its “Warm Hearts and Hands” program. The children have been very active this year in the student council with a variety of projects to reach out and help others. The project for December was to collect new scarves, hats, gloves and mittens for families in need across the Monticello Central School District. The students have collected over 100 items. Seen here are school principal Sandra Johnson-Fields, rear, with student council members Jarod Fennell, left, Aubrey Curry, Michael Feltman and Adisyn Somers, showing off the rewards of their hard work.

Contributed photo

Pantry toys delight local kids NARROWSBURG, NY — Joanne Letendre poses with gifts collected by the Narrowsburg Ecumenical Food Pantry. Letendre supervised the toy drive, which helped over 50 local children. She said, “Thank you to Pete’s Market, St. Francis Church, Our Lady of the Lake Church, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, the post office, Tony’s on the Lake, the Narrowsburg Inn, John and Ned Lang and all the wonderful people who donated, making this a wonderful Christmas for all these children.” The pantry also extended thanks to those who have provided donations to the pantry throughout the year, including Catskill Hudson Bank, NBDC Bank and Pete’s Market.

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ 17

THE RIVER REPORTER

WHERE AND WHEN

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve celebration at Glass

Business Group @ WSPL in Callicoon

CALLICOON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Business Group meets the First Wednesday of the month at the Delaware Free Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, 10:30am12:30pm. Meet with like-minded professionals, share ideas, explore social media, design marketing materials, learn new technologies and more.

Open play @ your library

Fri., Jan. 1 Champagne brunch buďŹ&#x20AC;et

Entertainment at Cove Haven

LAKEVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Byrd Pressley Band and comic Drew Fraser at Cove Haven Resort, 8:30pm.

Hike at Walnut Mountain

LIBERTY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Morgan Outdoors fourth annual New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hike/snowshoe at Walnut Mountain, 11am-12:30pm. Meet in the parking lot. Choose from two levels. Registration required. 845/439-5507.

Sat., Jan. 2 Billy Joelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back-up: Wade Preston

HAWLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Wade Preston plays Harmony Presents in the Silk Mill, 8pm. He delivers an impeccable show with your favorite tunes and original compositions. Tickets: $18 in advance, $22 general admission.

Entertainment at Cove Haven

LAKEVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The band Somethinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Else and comic JJ Ramirez at Cove Haven Resort, 8:30pm.

Family Game Day @ your library

JEFFERSONVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 10:30am-1:30pm at the Jeffersonville Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library. Giant Jenga, Life Size Connect 4, All Day Uno are just a few of the choices available. Stay for an hour or even longer. Snacks provided. Email kohara@rcls.org or call 845/4824350 for more information.

Opening reception: Tricia LoweryLippert

LORDS VALLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Artist Tricia LoweryLippert of East Stroudsburg returns to the Gallery at Chant Realtors, 631 Rte. 739. An artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reception will be held from 5-7pm. The show runs until February 27. 570/775-7337.

NARROWSBURG â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Wednesdays 10-11:30am at the Tusten-Cochecton Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library in Narrowsburg. Join for a slightly structured playtime. Drop in and see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on. Preregistration not required. Email kohara@rcls. org or call 845/252-3360 for more information.

Thurs., Jan. 7 Monitcello Senior Citizens meeting

MONTICELLO â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Monticello Senior Citizens meeting at the Ted Stroebele Center, 2 Jefferson St. Mary Paige Clouse, director of the new Monticello Public Library, will explain all its services and programs available to everyone.

Open play @ your library

CALLICOON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Thursdays 10-11:30am at the Delaware Free Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library in Callicoon. Join for a slightly structured playtime. Drop in and see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on. Preregistration not required. Email kohara@ rcls.org or call 845/887-4040.

Sustainable energy forum

HAWLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; SEEDS presents free sustainable energy forums and dinner to members of the Wayne Pike Building Industry Associates. Dinner served at 5:30; presentations from 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7 pm with Q&A session to follow. This series of events will be held in the Hawley Senior Community Center. 570/245â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1256.

Fri., Jan. 8 Solar leases for farms

LIBERTY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Are you a farmer or landowner in Sullivan County who received an informational packet from Cypress Creek Renewable Energy about leasing your land for solar energy generating projects? Attend this educational session at Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Education Center, 11am1pm. Free, lunch provided. Registration required. 845/292-6180.

Sat., Jan. 9 AARP Driver Safety Program

Sun., Jan. 3 POND EDDY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Winter concert at Pond Eddy Methodist Church, Berm-Church Road, 2pm. Several choirs, barbershop and piano. Refreshments severed.

SOUTH FALLSBURG â&#x20AC;&#x201D; AARP Driver Safety Program at the South Fallsburg Senior Center, 9am-4pm. To register call Sonny Smith at 845/434-8922 (leave message), please call after 9am. The fee is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members.

Rt. 6 Mall â&#x20AC;˘ Rt. 6 â&#x20AC;˘ 1199 Palmyra Hwy. â&#x20AC;˘ Honesdale, PA 18431 Approx. 11 miles from the Narrowsburg NY/PA Bridge

570-251-FILM (3456) â&#x20AC;˘ www.moviesatcinema6.com CALL FOR: Show Times â&#x20AC;˘ Specials â&#x20AC;˘ Group Rates

CONCUSSION (PG-13) â&#x20AC;˘ DADDY'S HOME (PG-13) JOY (PG-13) â&#x20AC;˘ POINT BREAK (PG-13) ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP (PG) STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS (PG-13) IN 3D AS WELL

HONESDALE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Main Street Farmers Market indoors at The Cooperage, 1030 Main St., 11am-1pm. Find a variety of locally grown, seasonal and fresh vegetables and fruits, meats, eggs, breads, pastries, jams & jellies, even a pop-up eatery.

Local author book signing

PORT JERVIS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Port Jervis resident Andres R. Bodon will do an author visit and book signing at the Port Jervis Free Library, 138 Pike St., 1-3pm. Boden published his first book, an 80-page Christian fiction novella, entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nephilim: The Last Son of God.â&#x20AC;?

Nat Osborn & Dustin Carlson

HAWLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Nat Osborn & Dustin Carlson from the Nat Osborn Band play at Harmony Presents in the Silk Mill, 8pm. Smart, punchy tunes that blend old-school Gershwin-era songcraft with decidedly modern sensibilities. Tickets: $18-22.

Open play @ your library

JEFFERSONVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Saturdays, 1011:30am at the Jeffersonville Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library. Slightly structured playtime. Preregistration not required. Email kohara@rcls.org or call 845/482-4350.

Philatelic Society auction

MONTICELLO â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sullivan County Philatelic Society hosts a ten-lot auction at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center, 2 Jefferson St., 1pm.

NARROWSBURG â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 4:30-5pm at the Tusten-Cochecton Branch of the Western Sullivan Public in Narrowsburg. Are you age 12-18? Do you love trivia? Join the WSPL Battle of the Books Team. Teams â&#x20AC;&#x153;battleâ&#x20AC;? other Sullivan County teams to test their knowledge. Join them for an introductory meeting. Email kohara@rcls.org or call 845/482-4350 for more information.

Know the 10 signs of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disease

MONTICELLO â&#x20AC;&#x201D; An interactive workshop to learn about 10 signs of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease, 11am-12noon at Action Toward Independence, 309 E. Broadway. For more information or to register, call 800/2723900. www.alz.org/hudson valley.

Printmaking Monday @ your library

NARROWSBURG â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 5-7pm at the Tusten-Cochecton Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library in Narrowsburg. Local artist Helena Clare Pittman demonstrates how to make cards using printmaking techniques. Ages 8+ welcome. Programs without 5 people preregistered may be canceled. Email Kohara@rcls.org or call 845/252-3360 for information.

Tue., Jan. 12

Ski/hike with the Catskill Nordic Ski Club

EGION â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Catskill Nordic Ski Club will hold its 41st season of informal, guided cross-country skiing on Saturdays in January through March. Trips are scheduled on Saturdays at 1:30 p.m. The leaders may choose to reschedule to Sunday, to change the hour or location, or to hike rather than ski depending on weather conditions. It is advisable to call the leader for updates

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570-729-7402

You Make It, You Take It

JEFFERSONVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Jar up something homemade at the Western Sullivan Public Library. Layer up an Asian salad with favorite ingredients, showcased with Bengali style warm chutney. Take, taste, and tell about the homemade end result. Registration required. Email wsplprograms@rcls.org, or call 845/252-3360.

BILL CASE POLARIS SALES & SERVICE

HANCOCK â&#x20AC;&#x201D; New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day champagne brunch buffet at Two Sisters Emporium, 170 E. Front St., 10am-2pm. Featuring made-to-order omelets, pancakes, cinnamon-swirl French toast and more. Complimentary glass of champagne or mimosa and unlimited coffee. Cost: $18.95. Reservation required. 607/637-5200.

Winter concert

Wed., Jan. 6

Indoor farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market at The Cooperage

Battle of the Books Meeting

WARNING: ATV's can be hazardous to operate. These are full-size machines designed to be ridden only by adults age 18 and older. For your safety: always wear a helmet and other protective clothing. Never carry passengers or engage in stunt driving. Polaris recommends that all ATV riders take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call Polaris at 1-800-328-9975.

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HAWLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve celebration at Glassâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;wine. bar. kitchen. at Ledges Hotel. Early seatings until 7pm, $65/ person; late seatings after 8pm, $85/ person. Hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and champagne on arrival, followed by a tasting menu. Champagne toast at midnight, live music featuring Eric Rudy. info@ledgeshotel. com or 570/226-1337.

LIBERTY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Caregiver Support Group at Achieve Rehab & Nursing Facility, 170 Lake St., 6-7:30pm. Open to all caregivers/family members of people with Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease or related dementias. Refreshments served. 845/866-3247.

Mon., Jan. 11

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Caregiver Support Group

HAWLEY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Two Ways at The Settlers Inn, serving dinner 5:3010pm. Live music by Dan Bradley on piano and a special menu in the dining room. Or, John Curtin and the Curtones downstairs in the Undercroft Supper Club with a three-course menu, dancing, hats, noisemakers and a champagne toast at midnight. desk@thesettlersinn. com or 570/226-2993.

JEFFERSONVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 12:30-1pm at the Jeffersonville Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library. Are you age 1218? Do you love trivia? Join the WSPL Battle of the Books Team. Teams â&#x20AC;&#x153;battleâ&#x20AC;? other Sullivan County teams to test their knowledge. Join them for an introductory meeting. Email kohara@rcls.org or call 845/482-4350 for more information.

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18 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

THE RIVER REPORTER

Service Directory Air Conditioning

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

Builder

Equipment & Tool Repair

Plumbing & Heating

JMR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

ELDRED EQUIPMENT SERVICE & SUPPLY

BUSELLI PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRIC

BORSDAM’S INC.

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

Architect

TED KILLE

Exterminating

Heating • Plumbing • Electrical Air Conditioning 570-253-3788

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

CHARLES GREGORY WOODS ARCHITECT PA/ NY- NCARB Voted Best Architect 2014 by River Reporter Readers Award - Winning Energy Efficient Residences Addition/ Remodeling and Commercial also cgwaia.net 570.253.5452

PHILIP FARMILOE, ARCHITECT, AIA

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

Arts DELAWARE VALLEY ARTS ALLIANCE

Plumbing, Carpentry Renovations, Ceramic Tile, Stone Work Electric & Honey Do Lists

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

BARRYVILLE EXTERMINATING SERVICE

845-887-4708

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

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Gutters

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

BOB’S SEAMLESS GUTTERS

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

Contractor

Heating

LEWIS MECKLE CONSTRUCTION CORP. New Homes • New Construction Renovations • Excavations From start to finish • Quality to remember Narrowsburg, NY • 845-252-7469

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

CENTRAL BOILER E-CLASSIC

Outdoor wood furnace CLEANER and GREENER EPA Qualified CALL TODAY!

HALLORAN FARM 845-482-5208

HVAC

37 Main Street, Narrowsburg, NY 845-252-7576 www.artsalliancesite.org

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

Auto Body

Construction

SOLAR GEO & WOOD

B&R COLLISION CORP.

REEVES MOUNTAIN CONSTRUCTION

Landscaping

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

Automotive D & R AUTO REPAIR

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

SONNY'S SERVICE CENTER

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

No Job Too Small... No Challenge Too Big! All phases of construction • Fully Insured • Free Estimates Find us on Facebook for full gallery of previous work Accepting all major credit cards • 845-252-3995

AMERICAN ELECTRIC, LLC

CREATIVE EARTH LANDSCAPING

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

JS ELECTRIC

ESSELMAN PAVING

NARROWSBURG ELECTRIC

CATSKILL BRUSH HOG SERVICES Serving Sullivan and Delaware Counties 845-243-4131 email: CatskillBrushHog@aol.com

BRADY STONE & LANDSCAPING LLC

Electrical

Blacktopping Brush Hogging

845-701-3088

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

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

Blacktopping Lake Huntington, NY • 845-932-7829

ENERGYSTARDAVE

Commercial Boilers, Heat Pumps & Controls

Serving Sullivan County 26 Years Experience • All forms of Electrical work Voted Best Electrician fifth 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

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

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

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

Painter B&L HOME INTERIOR

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

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

New Construction, Renovation, Service Water Heaters, Boilers, Well Pumps Solar Installs • 570-729-7791

GS PLUMBING & HEATING

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

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

Roofing STRAIT LINE ROOFING

“We’ve got you covered” Voted BEST Roofer 2009 - 2014 30 Years in Business Owens Corning Preferred Contractor Insured, Commercial, Residential All Phases of Roofing Including Metal

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

Visit us at www.straitlineroofing.com

ROOFING, SIDING SPECIALIST

Cassas Bros Update or improve your home Now GAF Certified Roofing Installer 50 Year Warranty Fully Lic/Insured Tel 845-492-9549 H \ www.Cassasbros.com

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

Storage RILEYVILLE MINI STORAGE

Your lock - your key - low monthly rates, various sizes to suit your needs. Route 371 East, Rileyville, PA 570-224-6284

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

VALLEY SAND & GRAVEL

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

Septic Service

Free Estimates • 845-482-4965

Rt. 652, Honesdale, PA • 570-251-9818

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

KOBERLEIN SEPTIC CLEANING

Septic Pumping, Jetting, Line Cleaning Video Inspection, Drainfield Restoration & More 24/7 Service • Koberlein.com 845-292-1494 • 570-729-7645 PLUMBERS

ROTO ROOTER Septic Tank Pumping,

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

845-252-6672 • 570-729-7936

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

Solar Energy BUSELLI PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRIC

GAEBEL’S TREE SERVICE

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

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

Call today to book your ad: 845-252-7414

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 19

THE RIVER REPORTER

Classifieds Help Wanted

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.

Autos’Trucks/Vans Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 914-468-4999 Today! 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!

Misc. For Sale SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N

BOOKKEEPER PT/Week Must know Quick Books 845-665-9020

Medical Oﬃce Assistant needed PT fro family practice in Callicoon Salary Commensurate with experience. If interested call 845932-8774

Help Wanted

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

The River Reporter, the award-winning newspaper of the Upper Delaware River Region, is seeking an experienced Sales Associate to join its team. The ideal candidate will have a proven sales ability, be able to help drive competitive sales goals, aid in generating new accounts and provide top-notch service to our current customer base. Must be motivated, work well both on a team and individually and thrive on meeting challenging deadlines, This a great opportunity to join a team that is committed to serving the community and showcasing the breadth of business and leisure that the Upper Delaware River Region has to offer. Salary + Commissions. Send letter of interest and resume to tanya@ riverreporter.com

Wanted

Auctions

CASH for Coins! Buying Gold & Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Comics, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home. Call Marc in NY: 1-800-959-3419

New Year, New Airline Careers - get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Overnight classes available. Call AIM 866-296-7093

Auctions Income Properties in Newport, VT Auctions: Thurs., Jan 28 25-Unit Apt. Building, 27,500+/-SF Ind. Building, & 28,000+/-SF Ind. Building THAuction.com *800-634-7653

Wanted To Buy CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!! Call Juley Today! 800-413-3479 www.CashForYourTestStrips.com

New Year, New Airline Careers - get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Overnight classes available. Call AIM 866-296-7093

TOP CASH PAID ON THE SPOT! - WE BUY Baseball Cards, Autographs, Records, Silver Coins, Golf Items, Art, Jewelry, Comics Etc., Call Joe Today @ 914-310-5153

Dining Room set for sale: Extendable table and 6 chairs Sideboard Cherry finish $350.00 OBO Call 201-951-6484 or 845-252-9986

MOVING SALE Youngsville, NY 12791 Wood Queen Size Bed $600,4- Wood Workshop Cabinets 3- Metal Wall Cabinets all for $100, NEW Walker, Commode, Shower Bench, Wheel Chair with a Tray 2004 Dodge RAM Truck 3500, 4 door, 5.9 Cummins, Electric Radiator Heater $50, 1966 Harley Golf Cart $200, Large Kitchen table $50, Medium Chest Freezer $100, Vanity/Desk with Mirror $150, Futon Couch/Bed $200, Entertainment Center For 42” TV $300, 2000 Chrysler Sebring Convertible, new parts, runs good, looks good no rust $2,500 OBO, Bow Flex Extreme 2, Like New, Great Christmas Present $800

Call For Details 845-798-3306 or 845-701-0317

For Sale

1986 Mustang Fox Body 5.0 GT 5 speed. Fuel Injection. 115k.

Clean inside and out. Runs great. Needs only minor things. Now reduced! $5,000 OBO. Call or text (570)647-8679

I am looking for recollections, photos, paper and artifacts from Civilian Conservation Corps Camp P-85 (Ten Mile River). The camp was located on Turnpike Lake off of Blind Pond Rd., Tusten (today’s Ten Mile River Boy Scout Camps) from 1934-1936. Contact David Malatzky at dmalatzky@aol.com.

20 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

Legal Notice TAX COLLECTION LEGAL NOTICE 2016 TOWN OF HIGHLAND PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that I, Doreen Hanson the undersigned collector of taxes of the Town of Highland, County of Sullivan, and the State of New York, will collect the 2016 Town and County Taxes in Town of Highland Town Hall 4 Proctor Road Eldred NY. Taxes will be received in my office in the Eldred Town Hall, Eldred, New York, in the said Town of Highland Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Wednesday from 8:00 AM to 11: 30 AM. Saturdays January 9, 16, 26, and 30. 9:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the taxes may be paid without interest on or before January 31st, 2016. AFTER JANUARY 31ST, THE FOLLOWING IS A GRADUATED INTEREST SCHEDULE; January Par February 1% March 2% plus a $2:00 surcharge per parcel In addition $2 penalty will be added to your bill if they are not paid when the unpaid notices are sent on or before March 5 (State Law) Installment payments may be paid as follows: January -50% due by 1/31/2016 at 0% interest. Send “Payment #1” stub with your check. February -25% due by 2/29/2016 at 1% interest on remaining account. Send “Payment#2 stub. March -25% due by 3/31/2016 at 2 % interest +$2.00 unpaid notice fee. Send entire bill. If installment payments are not timely postmarked they will not be accepted. There is a $15.00 returned check charge .Make checks payable to Town of Highland Tax Collector Mail payments to Town of Highland PO Box 138 Eldred NY 12732 Credit Card Payments Visit www.taxlookup.net (Select Sullivan County and then Highland) after authorization of your payment you will be sent a receipt. Payment Services provided by the Satellite.biz. The credit carriers charge a 3% fee on each transaction. You may obtain a duplicate tax bill/receipt or check the status of your payment via the Internet at www.taxlookup.net Dated: December 14, 2015 DOREEN HANSON TAX COLLECTOR TOWN OF HIGHLAND

THE RIVER REPORTER

Legal Notice

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the County Legislature of the County of Sullivan at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 17th of December 2015 duly adopted on said day, a Local Law No. 5 of 2015 a true and correct copy of the original thereof, and of the whole thereof as follows: LOCAL LAW 5 OF 2015 A Local Law to Amend Local Law No. 4-2007 (Part 9 of Chapter 182 of the Sullivan County Code) as amended by Local Law No. 1 of 2010, further amended by Local Law No. 2 of 2010, and further amended by Local Law 1 of 2013, Imposing a Mortgage Recording Tax. Section 1: Purpose: To amend Local Law No. 4-2007 (Part 9 of Chapter 182 of the Sullivan County Code) as amended by Local Law No. 1 of 2010,further amended by Local Law No. 2 of 2010, further amended by Local Law 1 of 2013, which imposed a Mortgage Recording Tax in the County of Sullivan. Local Law No. 4-2007 is set to expire on April 30, 2016 and it is the intention of the Sullivan County Legislature to extend the Local Law No. 4-2007 for three additional years. Section 2: Section 182-77 of Part 9 of Chapter 182 of the Sullivan County Code shall be amended by deleting the language “May 1, 2013” both times it appears and inserting the language “May 1, 2016” in both places and by deleting the language “April 30, 2016” and inserting the language “April 30, 2019.” Section 3: Section 182-83 of Part 9 of Chapter 182 of the Sullivan County Code shall be amended by deleting the language “May 1, 2013” and inserting the language “May 1, 2016”. Section 4: Effective Date This Local Law shall take effect May 1, 2016. A certified copy of this Local Law shall be mailed by registered or certified mail to the Commissioner of Taxation and Finance at the Commissioner’s Office in Albany. Certified copies of this Local Law shall be filed with the Sullivan County Clerk, the Secretary of State and the State Comptroller within five days after this Local Law is enacted. Dated: December 18, 2015 AnnMarie Martin, Clerk Sullivan County Legislature

Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 983 Amsterdam Avenue, Apartment 3A, New York, NY 10025. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 115 Leisure Lake Drive, Swan Lake, NY 12783. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

TY DESIGN LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/02/15. Office:

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481 Central Ave LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General. Notice of Formation of Crystal Creek Enterprises LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/15/13. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: POB 222, Loch Sheldrake, NY 12759. Purpose: any lawful activity. 43 Skillman LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General. Notice of formation of 21 Dill LLC Articles of organization filed with the SSNY on10/21/2015. Office located in Sullivan county. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: The LLC,5014 16 Av #169 Brooklyn,NY 11204 Purpose: any lawful purpose TY PROPERTIES UNIT 1 LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/02/15.Office: Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 63 West 107th Street, Unit 41, New York, NY 10025. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. TOWN OF LUMBERLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LOCAL LAW #1, 2016 ENTITLED “LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING TAX EXEMPTION FOR PERSONS SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AS PROVIDED FOR IN REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW SECTION 467”. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Lumberland on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 7:15 p.m., at the Town of Lumberland Town Hall located at 1052 Proctor Rd., Glen Spey, New York 12737 regarding the adoption of Local Law 1 of the Town of Lumberland for the year 2016 entitled “LOCAL LAW AUTHORIZING TAX EXEMPTION FOR PERSONS SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AS PROVIDED FOR IN REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW”. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that copies of said proposed Local Law are available for review at theTown Clerk’s Office, at 1054 Proctor Rd.,GlenSpey, NewYork 12737. By order of the Town Board Town of Lumberland Virginia Horn, Town Clerk December 28, 2015 115 LEISURE LAKE DR, LLC Articles of Org. filed Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/07/2015. Office

YLH Holdings LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/17/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to C/O Kenny Yager, 65 Lee Pl, Bergenfield, N.J. 07621. Purpose: General. 135 Middleton St LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General. Notice of Formation of 2024 E 55th St. LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/18/15. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 225 Broadway, Fl. 39, NY, NY 10007. Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of Wells Logistics LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/2/15. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 811 Sackett Lake Road, Monticello, NY 12701. Purpose: any lawful activity. TOWN OF LUMBERLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING LOCAL LAW #2, 2016 ENTITLED “AUTHORIZING THE PROVISIONS OF REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW SECTION 458-a (7) ALLOWING FOR THE GOLD STAR PARENT EXEMPTION”. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Lumberland on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., at the Town of Lumberland Town Hall located at 1052 Proctor Rd., Glen Spey, New York 12737 regarding the adoption of Local Law 2 of the Town of Lumberland for the year 2016 entitled “AUTHORIZING THE PROVISIONS OF REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW SECTION 458-a (7) ALLOWING FOR THE GOLD STAR PARENT EXEMPTION”. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that copies of said proposed Local Law are available for review at theTown Clerk’s Office, at 1054 Proctor Rd.,GlenSpey, NewYork 12737. By order of the Town Board Town of Lumberland Virginia Horn, Town Clerk December 28, 2015 35 Skillman St LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General. 49 Skillman LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE By DAVID LEVINSON WILK 1

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35 37

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ACROSS

1. European peninsula 7. Mogadishu-born supermodel 11. Kind of master 14. “It won’t be missed” 15. You can see through it 16. Send packing 17. Fails to 18. Admits 20. Button-down shirt, pocket protector, thick glasses, etc.? 22. Number opposite VI on a clock 23. It’s a matter of time 24. Actor Nicolas 28. Pathetically caffeine-addicted person? 34. Orchestra sect. 35. Raced 36. ____ Miss 37. This puzzle’s theme 42. Google search result 45. Shadow 46. Texter’s “I didn’t need to know that” 49. Aircraft that can also travel by foot? 54. Bar ____ 55. Poisonous: Prefix 56. W-2 ID 58. Apt comment when being shown a “carotte” or “tomate”? 64. Post office alternative 67. 1966 Mary Martin musical 68. Spot 69. They’re often drawn 70. Director Wes 71. Do lunch 72. It’s listed as a synonym for “jeans” in Roget’s Thesaurus 73. They’re bigots

DOWN

1. The Dow, e.g. 2. Gets down 3. Mournful poet

4. ____ Hashanah 5. “The end ____!” 6. The world, according to Shakespeare 7. Holder of many tracks 8. Bryn ____ College 9. Hathaway or Heche 10. Capone fighter Eliot ____ 11. Irradiate 12. Office phone no. 13. Prefix with liberal 19. Its acad. is in New London, CT 21. ____ Moines 25. In the past 26. Guy’s partner 27. Before, poetically 29. Before: Prefix 30. Filched 31. Ball chaser? 32. Dude 33. Suffix with election 38. Former AT&T rival 39. Flit (about) 40. Gillespie, to friends 41. Mo. town 42. Kin to -kin 43. Harrison of “Cleopatra” 44. It’s 11 miles NNW of JFK 47. Be suspicious 48. One who knows the score 50. Envoy and Yukon, for two 51. School grp. 52. “Maury” host 53. Curved bench 57. Aquarium fish 59. List-ending abbr. 60. One and only 61. Alder or elder 62. Minus 63. Big kid? 64. “What’s the ____?” 65. Shade of green 66. Filming site

DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ 21

THE RIVER REPORTER

Real Estate Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise â&#x20AC;&#x153;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.â&#x20AC;? 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.

The Friendship of Those We Serve is the Foundation of Our Success. Thank you for your friendship, goodwill and loyalty. May the happiness and good cheer of the holiday season be yours throughout the New Year. FROM ALL OF US AT

EAGLE VALLEY REALTY

6569 State Route 97 â&#x20AC;˘ Narrowsburg, NY 12764 â&#x20AC;˘ 845-252-3085 Serving the Upper Delaware River Valley Licensed NY & PA, Realtor-MLS

For more country properties visit us on the web! www.eaglevalleyrealty.com â&#x20AC;˘ eaglevalleyrealty@gmail.com

Two Bedroom Apartment for Rent Skinnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Falls, overlooking the river. $500/mo plus utilities. December availability. Please call 800-252-3925.

($*/( 9$//(< 5($/7< 6WDWH 5RXWH Â&#x2021; 1DUURZVEXUJ 1<

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Eagle Valley Real Estate Salesperson has recently obtained her e-Pro CertiÂżcation and SRES Designation (Seniors Real Estate Specialist)! And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget Jennie is licensed in NY and PA! Licensed Real Estate Salesperson in NY & PA NY License #10401244876 | PA License #RSR001746

Office: 845-252-3085 ext 20 | Cell: 845-588-5306 | E-mail: jennie.eaglevalleyrealty@gmail.com

ADVERTISE HERE!

GET RESULTS! 845-252-7414 CALL EXT 35 TODAY! 21 Lower Main Street PO Box 335 Callicoon, NY

845-887-5640 Real Estate Inc. Upper Delaware Country Properties

www.fredarealty.com email:tom@fredarealty.com

MLS # 41471 Riverfront farmhouse in Narrowsburg. Turn-of-the-century farmhouse in beautiful down town Narrowsburg also zoned commercial. Nice covered front porch as well as an enclosed screened back porch to sit and relax. The back yard is level with some mature trees and a one car garage. 4 bedrooms, one full bath plus 2 half baths. Nice Âżreplace with a woodstove insert - $ 164,900

Newly renovated three bedroom house in Lava/ Narrowsburg.Â Open concept kitchen/dining room, stainless steel appliances, den with wood burning stove, two and a half bathrooms including ensuite with shower and tub, wrap around porch and deck.Â Enjoy the opportunity to rent this luxurious house.Â $1,200/month plus utilities.Â Financial references required. 845-252-3999, jani5803@aol.com.

Brand New Store Front facing Kauneonga Lake hardwood ďŹ&#x201A;oors, wraparound covered porch, minutes from Bethel Woods Center for The Arts $1200 per month 845-252-3999 Narrowsburg NY For Rent 3 bedroom 2nd ďŹ&#x201A;oor apartment Newly Renovated, beautiful view of Lake Erie $975 per month plus 1 month security Please call 845-252-3000 for more information

Legal Notice

Notice of Formation of 2183 E 33rd St. LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/18/15. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 225 Broadway, Fl. 39, NY, NY 10007. Purpose: any lawful activity.

No 3026/2012 SCOTT RUSSELL, ESQ , Referee

States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13thAvenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228 Purpose: any lawful activity. {Insert Image â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;c1353_1.pngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;}

Notice of Formation of Sushi Tokyo Upstate, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/25/15. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1178 Rt. 52, Loch Sheldrake, NY 12759. Purpose: any lawful activity. 117 LEISURE LAKE DR, LLC Articles of Org. filed Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/07/2015. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 117 Leisure Lake Drive, Swan Lake, NY 12783. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 104 Evergreen LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/29/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to C/O Lindsay T. Liu, 136 Powers St 1G, Brooklyn, NY 11211-4971. Purpose: General. Bing Assets, LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY12/15/15. Office: Sullivan Co. SSNY design. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy to POB 151 White Lake, NY 12786 General purpose Notice of Formation of B&S Zucker Family LLC. Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 12/24/15. Office location: Sullivan County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1435 43rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11219. Purpose: any lawful activity. Wurtsboro Trucking LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/13/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 35 Laura Jean Ln, Wurtsboro, NY 12790. Purpose: General. NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SULLIVAN COUNTY BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against VINCENT A. MELORE, JR. A/K/A VINCENT A. MELORE ,et al Defendants Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein, Such & Crane LLP, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite C103, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorney(s) for Plaintiff(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale Entered AUGUST 19, 2015 I will sell at Public Auction to the highest bidder at the LAWRENCE H. COOK, SULLIVAN COUNTY COURTHOUSE, MONTICELLO, NY 12701 on JANUARY 13, 2016 at 11:00 A.M.. Premises known as 4 GROVE STREET, NARROWSBURG, NY 12764. Sec 12 Block 3 Lot 3. ALL that tract or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Narrowsburg, Town of Tusten, Sullivan County, N.Y. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $221,340.63 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town Board of the Town of Cochecton, Sullivan County, New York will hold a Public Hearing at the Town Hall, 74 Smales Road, Lake Huntington, Sullivan County, New York, on the 13th day of January, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of considering the purchase of +/- 3 acres of land located on Olsen Road adjacent to the existing sewer plant in accordance with a proposed sewer plant upgrade which will upgrade the quality of water through the use of a UV system thereby decreasing the amount of chlorine used and increasing the quality of the water in order to comply with Department of Environmental Conservation requirements. The estimated cost of this land purchase and sewer plant upgrade is $100,000. BY ORDER OF COCHECTON TOWN BOARD Hollye Schulman, Town Clerk Dated: December 24, 2015 ADMINISTRATION CITATION FILE NO. 2014-128/A SURROGATEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COURT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SULLIVAN COUNTY CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. By the grace of God Free and Independent, TO MAITLAND DOWSEY, NANY BUCK, as Public Administrator of the County of Sullivan. A petition having been duly filed by Generation Mortgage Company, whose principal office is located at 3565 Piedmont Road, NE, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30305. YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s court of SULLIVAN COUNTY, at the Sullivan County Surrogateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court, 414 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701 on February 16, 2016 at 1:30 oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock in the afternoon, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Laurel D. Meyerhoff, lately domiciled at 380 Old Loomis Road, Liberty, in the County of Sullivan granting Letters of Administration with Limitations upon the Estate of the decedent to any eligible distributes or upon their default, to Nancy Buck, acting in her capacity as Public Administrator of the County of Sullivan, or to such other persons as may be entitled thereto. Petitioner further requested that the authority of the representative under the foregoing letters be limited as follows: Letters be limited to the acceptance of service of the Summons and Complaint in a lawsuit for foreclosure commenced by Generation Mortgage Company in the Supreme Court for the County of Sullivan, upon claims which arose on or about June 3, 2014 from the default on a Note and Mortgage secured by property located at 380 Old Loomis Road, Liberty County of Sullivan and State of New York, or for any subsequent action necessary to comply with the rules of the CPLR in an attempt to foreclose on the above-referenced property. Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company (LLC). The name of the LLC is: 9Gram Records, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) office on: 10/26/2015 The County in which the Office is to be located: Sullivan The SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is: c/o United

A G E N V I R O N M E N TA L R E SOURCES LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/12/15. Office: Sullivan County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Alan Rajlevsky, 178 Swiss Hill North, Kenoza Lake, NY 12750. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 203 Wallabout LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/7/15. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 72 Middlton St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Purpose: General. TAX COLLECTION LEGAL NOTICE 2016 TOWN OF COCHECTON PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that I ,Eileen Hennessy the Tax Collector of taxes of the Town of Cochecton, County of Sullivan, and the State of New York, will collect the 2016 Town and County Taxes in Town of Cochecton Town Hall 74 Smales Rd, Cochecton NY. Taxes will be received in my office in the Cochecton Town Hall, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 4pm to 7pm. and Saturdays by chance (call first) 845-932-8360 X 17. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the taxes may be paid without interest on or before January 31st, 2016. AFTER JANUARY 31ST, THE FOLLOWING IS A GRADUATED INTEREST SCHEDULE; January Par February 1% March2% plus a $2:00 surcharge per parcel In addition $2 penalty will be added to your bill if they are not paid when the unpaid notices are sent on or before March 5 (State Law) Installment payments may be paid as follows: January -50% due by 1/31/2016 at 0% interest. Send â&#x20AC;&#x153;Payment #1â&#x20AC;? stub with your check. February -25% due by 2/29/2016 at 1% interest on remaining account. Send â&#x20AC;&#x153;Payment#2 stub. March -25% due by 3/31/2016 at 2 % interest +$2.00 unpaid notice fee. Send entire bill. If installment payments are not timely postmarked they will not be accepted. There is a $20.00 returned check charge. Make checks payable to Eileen Hennessy Town of Cochecton Tax Collector Mail payments to 295 Mohn Rd Narrowsburg, NY 12764 Credit Card Payments and E Checks Visit www. taxlookup.net (Select Sullivan County and then Cochecton) after authorization of your payment you will be sent a receipt. Payment Services provided by the Satellite.biz. The credit carriers charge a 3% fee on each transaction. You may obtain a duplicate tax bill/ receipt or check the status of your payment via the Internet at www. taxlookup.net Dated: December 14, 2016 EILEEN HENNESSY TAX COLLECTOR TOWN OF COCHECTON GYST ADVISORS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/24/2015. Office in Sullivan Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 394, White Lake, NY 12786. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business location: 153 Homestead Trail, White Lake, NY 12786.

22 â&#x20AC;˘ DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

THE RIVER REPORTER

Happy & Healthy New Year to All From all of us at the Dancing Cat Saloon, The Catskill Distilling Co. & the Stray Cat Gallery

Happenings at the Cat Thursday - New Years Eve !

Early Tasting Dinners 5:30 to 8:30 Late Seating Dinner 8:30 Includes the Party with Somerville

Call Eileen to day 845-252-7414 ext 35 Time to adve rtise the house fo r rent!

Friday - New Years Day Brunch starting at Noon and expecting Surprise Visit from some Great Old Friends/Musicians Friday Saturday - Cat open at Noon Jason Rosen & Moâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Soul Band 8:30 Sunday - Brunch starts at 11 Live Jazz with Barry S. & Friends Save the Dates for Coming Attractions! January 15th .............Albi Beluli 8:30 January 16th .............Catskills Pride Winter Gathering at the Cat - 2:00 to 6:00 January 16th .............Mountain Wave Band - 8:30 January 23rd ............Teddy Young & The Aces Blues Band 8:30 January 29th ............Albi Beluli February February February February

6th ............Peter Florance and the New Kings 8:30 12th ...........Albi Beluli 13th ...........Erin Harpe and the Delta Blues 8:30 29th ..........Abli Beluli 8:00

March 25th...............The Vine Brothers 8:30 https://www.facebook.com/Dancing.Cat.Saloon for Event Info (845)583-3141 & info@dancingcatsaloon.com for reservations

Angelinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on The Hill

23 Crestwood Rd Lake Huntington, NY 845-932-5042 Wednesday through Sunday 11 am to 9 p.m. Bar is open and we now have a

pool table

Come out and spend your New Years Eve

Tonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

on the

Lake

'LQQHU VWDUWV DW SP SHU SHUVRQ App. Choice: Ship Cocktail, Calamari, Tonys Flatbread or Mozzarella & Tomato. Main: Choice: NY Strip Steak, Salmon Oscar or Chicken Franchise Includes : Soup or Salad Vegetables : Roasted red potatoes. Champagne toast at midnight sing along with Karoke with Mr. Tony K. We will be open New Years Day 4pm till closing Saturday Jan. 2 Live Music with Albi.

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DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016 • 23

THE RIVER REPORTER

January at PEEC

DELIVERING QUALITY FUEL SINCE 1915

Kerosene

Diesel

Heating Oil

570-253-1200

Automatic Delivery Honesdale, PA

Budget Plans

HEAP Provider

www.fslwfuels.com

H\U

HAPPY NEW YEAR THUNDERHEADS! Weekdays 6 to 9 am

Weekdays 4 to 7 pm

IN THE

Lightning Hot Country! On Air... Online... On Your Cellphone! Download the FREE RadioBOLD App on your iPhone, iPod, iPad or android phone today or listen live at Thunder102.com!

www.RadioBOLD.com

SOUNDINGS Actual and avg. precipitation NYC watershed

Reservoir levels

Actual: Historical avg:

Inches

December 24, 2015 Cannonsville: 71.1% Pepacton: 73.5% Neversink: 93.8% Total: 81.8% Normal Total: 86.3% Total in 2014: 71.9

*to date Sept. Sept

Oct. Oct

Nov. Nov

Dec.* Dec

INGMANS FERRY, PA — The Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) has a variety of events planned for January. Pre-registration is requested unless otherwise noted. There will be cross-country skiing on Sunday, January 3, 17, 24 and 31 from 1 to 3 p.m. and Saturday, January 23 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, for a fee of $20 for adults and $10 for children. Enjoy the winter woods with beginner ski lessons. Learn the basics of cross-country skiing and practice on an old logging road loop. You decide how many loops to ski. There will also be “Bridge the Gap” cross-country skiing on the McDade Trail on January 2, 16 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, free. Funding on these dates for skiing on the McDade Trail is provided by the William Penn Foundation. Skis, poles and boots are provided; register with shoe size to guarantee a spot. Introduction to Snowshoeing will be held on Saturday, January 2, 16, 23 and

30 from 1 to 3 p.m. and Sunday, January 3, 17, 24 and 31 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Learn the basics of snow shoes and enjoy a winter stomp through the woods. No experience necessary. PEEC provides equipment and teaches you everything you need to know. Register early to guarantee a spot. The cost is $10. There will be a winter ecology hike on Saturday, January 2 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Learn how different plants and animals survive the winter. All ages are welcome. The cost is $5. There will be an Audubon bird count on on Sunday, January 3 starting at 8 a.m. You can register for the area around your house and participate from the comfort of your living room, or you can venture out into a different part of the count circle. If you’re a beginner, PEEC will pair you up with a more experienced birder. Pre-registration is required for this free event. For information visit www.peec.org, email peec@peec.org or call 570/828-2319.

Congressional vote supports land conservation

AWLEY, PA AND BETHEL, NY — Delaware Highlands Conservancy (DHC), an accredited land trust working to protect lands and waters throughout the Upper Delaware River region, is praising a bipartisan congressional vote that makes permanent a federal tax incentive supporting land conservation. First enacted as a temporary provision in 2006, the incentive grants certain tax benefits to landowners who sign a conservation easement. Such private, voluntary agreements with local land trusts permanently limit uses of the land in order to protect its conservation values. Lands placed into conservation easements can continue to be farmed, hunted or used for other specified purposes. The lands also remain on county tax rolls, strengthening local economies. Once signed into law, the incentive will be applied retroactively to January 1, 2015. An earlier version of the incentive expired December 31, 2014. The Delaware Highlands Conservancy was among the 1,100 land trusts to support the incentive through a collaborative, multi-year campaign. “The enhanced incentive will empower more local landowners to protect their cherished properties for future generations,” said Sue Currier, executive director of the DHC. “We’ve shared the inspiring stories of some of the landowners who have conserved their lands as a result of the enhanced incentive in the past on our website—www.DelawareHighlands.org/

Contributed photo by Hedy and Martin Kunstmann

This property of Hedy and Martin Kunstmann in Damascus, PA is one of those protected by a conservation easement arranged through the Delaware Highlands Conservancy and made possible by a temporary provision in a 2006 federal law. That provision was made permanent in recently passed legislation. conserve.” DHC thanks U.S. Senators Casey, Gillibrand, and Schumer and Representatives Marino and Gibson for their support of the bill.

24 • DECEMBER 31, 2015 - JANUARY 6, 2016

RIVER TALK

By Sandy Long

THE RIVER REPORTER

Winter bird whereabouts

atching birds in winter can really lift one’s spirits, as they somehow survive conditions that most humans couldn’t withstand. Their colorful plumage and spirited antics inspire our devotion to do what we can to help them thrive. In ongoing efforts to improve our knowledge of these feathered miracles, several counts take place. Audubon’s 116th Christmas Bird Count is underway now and continues until January 5, 2016 (www.audubon.org/conserva tion/science/christmas-bird-count). The 19th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), during which participants around the world, from beginners to experts, count bird species during four days, is scheduled for February 12 through 15 this year. The GBBC provides a snapshot of global bird populations, with real-time maps and charts showing what participants are reporting. In 2015, over 140,000 people from more than 100 countries submitted bird observations that help the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society increase their knowledge of how birds are faring, as well as how best to protect them and their habitats. In 2014, data highlighted the effects of the polar vortex on bird movement around the country, for example.

TRR photos by Sandy Long

The Northern cardinal was the most frequently reported species in the 2015 Great Backyard Bird Count. Pennsylvania participants submitted more checklists than participants in any other state, except California. Visit gbbc.birdcount.org/2015gbbc-summary to see the full summary. The birds depicted in this column made the 2015 list for the top 10 most frequently reported species.

Blue jay

Visit birdcount.org for more information about the GBBC, along with educational and promotional resources. Register for the count at gbbc.birdcount. org/get-started. In preparation for this year’s event, join expert local birders from the

Tufted titmouse

Northeast PA Audubon Society at the Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center in Hawley, PA on February 6, from 1 to 3 p.m., for the free public program, “Great Backyard Birds.” Learn about the best feeders and seeds to attract birds to your backyard. Construct a recycled

feeder and take home an observation sheet. A simple tutorial will be provided so that participants can record their bird sightings and enter their reports online for the GBBC. Registration for the local program is required at 570/689-9494 or info@lacawac.org.

Qualify to Win a $50 Visa Gift Card Community Health Survey Catskill Regional Medical Center is committed to the health of Sullivan County and would appreciate feedback from residents regarding their health needs. Catskill Regional would like to know how we can enhance the way we provide healthcare in order to better serve our community. Please take 10-15 minutes to complete our Community Health Needs Assessment Survey. The questions in the survey are designed to determine the key health issues in the community. Everyone who takes the survey is eligible to win a $50 Visa gift card. Survey Link: www.crmcny.org/CommunityHealthNeedsAssessment Questions about the survey may be directed to Holleran at 1-800-941-2168.

A member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System