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Stiebeling and Piazza

Putman service providers convene on emergency preparedness

BREWSTER (June 17) - Nearly 100 community service providers attended the “Disaster Planning for Populations with Special Needs” conference held in the Putnam County TOPS Building recently. Organized by the Putnam County Department of Health and the Bureau of Emergency Services, the half-day event brought together front line, direct care workers who provide services to those with special vulnerabilities, including children, the frail and elderly, as well as those experiencing homelessness, cultural isolation, language barriers, physical or mental disabilities.

The take-home message for the day was on improving personal readiness—not just for the clients of the service providers, but for the staff as well. Emergencies and disasters occur without much warning. Evacuation or sheltering at home may become necessary, with limited food, water, medications and other supplies. These situations are trying for everyone; at risk populations are even more susceptible to difficulties.  (See attached tips, “Five Action Steps to Personal Preparedness.”)

Providers, or anyone for that matter, who have done little to prepare themselves and their families, will find it more difficult to assist clients or others in these tasks. It was a theme echoed by all speakers: MaryEllen Odell, County Executive; Michael Piazza, Commissioner of the Department of Social Services and Mental Health; Mary Ann Luna, Vice President for Community Alliances, United Way of Westchester and Putnam; Adam Stiebeling, Commissioner of the Bureau of Emergency Services and Karen Levin, Director of Columbia University’s Regional Learning Center for Preparedness and Emergency Response at the National Center for Disaster Preparedness.

Ms. Levin, the invited speaker, is a critical care nurse and epidemiologist, whose public health career since 9-11 has concentrated on preparedness for health and public health systems. She has traveled the world, providing community–relevant public health expertise. Her interactive workshop invited audience input throughout the session, helping to advance community-driven, community-specific strategies, that can be utilized as necessary.

An overview of the county government’s readiness efforts provided by Adam Stiebeling, Putnam County Commissioner of the Bureau of Emergency Services, preceded Ms. Levin’s exercises. Mr. Stiebeling described the planning, training and drills that lay a foundation so that when problems arise, county personnel can respond and mitigate the situation, and move to recovery. Maintaining countywide communications including the 911 system, preserving a stockpile of emergency supplies and equipment for various special response teams, and administering training for emergency medical services (EMS) and fire agencies, are among numerous ongoing bureau responsibilities.

The Health Department’s mission is to improve and protect the health of Putnam County residents through prevention of illness and injury. Core services include community health assessment, disease surveillance and control, environmental health protection, family health promotion and health education. For more information, please visit our website at www.putnamcountyny.com; or visit our social media sites on Facebook at www.facebook.com/putnamhealth  and Twitter @PutnamHealthNY.

Orange County Office of Community Development to continue mobile office hours at locations throughout county

MIDDLETOWN (June 18) - The Orange County Office of Community Development is pleased to announce the locations of their next round of mobile office hours. By taking the Office “on the road” they hope to make Community Development programs and services more accessible to County residents. 

Upcoming Community Development mobile office hours will be hosted at the following locations:

Tuesday, July 9

• 9:30 – 10:30 am – Wallkill Town Hall – 99 Tower Drive, Wallkill
• 11 am – 12 noon – Otisville Village Hall – 66 Highland Avenue, Otisville
• 1 – 2 pm – Deerpark Town Hall – 420 Route 209, Huguenot
• 2:30 – 3:30 pm – Port Jervis City Hall – 14-20 Hammond Street, Port Jervis

“I’m happy to report that our Community Development mobile office hours have been proving very successful,” said Richard Mayfield, Director, Office of Community Development. “I believe Community Development works best when we are in the community meeting and working with the residents who can benefit most from the program’s many services. By meeting with residents and municipal officials in their communities, we are better able to help them become more familiar with the available services; and the Community Development team will gain a better understanding of what residents need,” Mayfield added.

One the most popular Community Development programs is the 0% home improvement loan which has a deferred payment option. This program affords income-eligible residents, the opportunity to have general repairs done to their homes which may include: weatherization, barrier removal and heating system replacements. Funding of up to $20,000 is available for these activities.

“I appreciate the support from our municipal leaders for making their respective village and town halls available to our Community Development team,” said Mayfield.

Walden Savings Bank Participates Adopt-a-Highway program

MONTGOMERY (June 5) – Walden Savings Bank announced its most recent community endeavor to partner with Adopt-a-Highway. The project, part of a national initiative working toward cleaner highways and communities, will be led by Walden Savings Bank’s Class of 2012.

More details on our Business Page

Wickham Solid Wood Studio joins Clearwater’s corporate membership program

BEACON (May 31) - Clearwater announces Wickham Solid Wood Studio of Beacon, NY has joined as a Corporate Member. Wickham Solid Wood Studio makes custom furniture using responsibly-sourced Hudson Valley hardwoods.

Dedicated to sustainable, artisanal use of our natural resources, Wickham Solid Wood Studio has been retrieving “dead and down” logs from Hudson Valley landscapers since 2004 and custom milling and drying them at their bandsaw mill in Bullville, NY. The company maintains an inventory of over 10,000 board feet of kiln-dried natural edge slabs, featuring the hardwood species common to the northeastern deciduous forest:  black walnut, white oak, black cherry, white ash, red elm, among others.  Clients are encouraged to visit the studio/workshop on Main Street in Beacon, NY, to select material.

Owner Jessica Wickham’s furniture designs combine natural forms with modernist elements, often employing exposed joinery.  The results celebrate the integrity of solid wood. Clients include The National Audubon Society (NYC corporate offices), Scenic Hudson (Long Dock Park, Beacon, NY), Winter Hill/Hudson Highlands Land Trust (Garrison, NY) and The Roundhouse at Beacon Falls (Beacon, NY).

Wickham Solid Wood Studio shares Hudson River Sloop Clearwater Inc.’s commitment to protecting the environment and improving the health of our waterways. In addition to supporting Clearwater as a Corporate Member and donating black locust benches for the organization’s offices, Wickham Solid Wood Studio provides sawdust for the sloop’s 2 bio-toilets, composting toilets that use sawdust as an artificial soil matrix for bioconversion of human waste into compost.  

Wickham Solid Wood Studio is located at 578 Main Street, Beacon, NY.  For more information, visit www.jessicawickham.com.

“My appreciation of trees and fine craftsmanship is rooted in my childhood, in my education, and in the landscape of the Hudson Valley”, Wickham said.  “The values promoted by Clearwater are close to my heart and the songs of Pete Seeger have been in my ears since I was a toddler. We are all so proud to be onboard.”

Clearwater Executive Director Jeff Rumpf said “Clearwater is grateful to Jessica and Wickham Solid Wood Studio for their ongoing support of Clearwater and are delighted to welcome them onboard as a Corporate Member.  We appreciate their commitment to support a healthy environment and the health and wellbeing of the Hudson River with the ongoing in-kind donation of sawdust to maintain the sloop Clearwater’s bio-toilets.”  

State Bar recognition for Ulster County chief assistant public defender

KINGSTON (May 31) - Ulster County Chief Assistant Public Defender Majer Gold has been selected to receive the New York State Bar Association’s 2013 Denison Ray Award, named after a legal activist who led legal services programs. 

“Majer Gold exemplifies Ulster County employees’ high level of professionalism”, said County Executive Michael Hein.  “The Denison Ray award is a statewide award recognizing staff attorneys employed by a public defender, conflict defender or non-profit corporation based on the overall quality of their legal representation and their efforts to inspire, mentor and support colleagues.  It is an honor that Majer Gold and Ulster County were recognized.”

Ulster County Public Defender Andrew Kossover commented “Majer Gold was chosen for his standards of excellence and his wonderful support and mentoring of other members of the Ulster County Public Defender’s Office.” 

The award will be conferred during a luncheon ceremony to be held at the New York State Bar Center, One Elk Street, Albany, New York, on Friday, June 14, 2013.

Mid Hudson Animal Aid benefits from Pet Expo

POUGHKEEPSIE (May 21) - The Poughkeepsie Plaza recently donated over $500 to Mid Hudson Animal Aid from the proceeds of our 2nd Annual Pet Expo that was held at the Poughkeepsie Plaza on May 4th.

In the photo, Kimberly Barela, Plaza Manager presents a check for $542 to Donald Petruncola, President of the Board for Mid Hudson Animal Aid

Family, friends of Montgomery suicide victim to participate in national march

WASHINGTON DC (May 20) - A suicide attempt happens every minute of every day. Every 14 minutes, someone in the U.S. dies by suicide. These statistics are staggering and yet remain hidden and not discussed.

The Out of the Darkness Overnight is a walk like no other. It's a 16-18 mile journey through the night, from dusk until dawn where a courageous community of men and women break the silence and bring the issues of suicide, depression, and mental illness into the spotlight and to continue the work of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The leading national not-for-profit organization is exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and to reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide.

Valerie James knows from her own experience of losing her brother John Katonah, of Montgomery, to suicide that serious depression and other mental illnesses can be fatal. John struggled with depression and alcohol, and tried very hard to overcome his illnesses and move forward with his life. Valerie will be participating in this event, and hope to raise awareness of the serious threat that mental illness can pose and the treatment options that can help people overcome it. If one person can be saved from the illness that killed John, their efforts to walk 20 miles and to raise money for this cause will be worthwhile.            

To see Valerie’s journey and to help her in her effort to raise money for this cause please visit outofthedarkness.org click the overnight walk and search her team, Braveheart in the find a participant or team search bar on the bottom right corner of the screen.

http://theovernight.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=7862

Below is the link to the Overnight Walk video.

www.viewbix.com/v/Walk-to-Prevent-Suicide/7bdb8106-3aa7-4a9f-9c50-1b0002981dcd

Scouts spend day honoring veterans at cemetery

HIGHLAND (May 5) - Boy Scout Troop 70 and Cub Scout Pack 70 in Highland recently participated in some community service projects

The Boy Scouts helped members of the American Legion Post 193 in Highland place flags at the grave sites of Veterans at the Lloyd Cemetery and the Highland Cemetery. The committee in charge of this event is chaired by Bill Freer, assisted by Ray (not Raymond) Snider and Ben Bragg. The Scouts' group of 10 boys and 6 parents was organized by Scout Venture Leader Paul Souleotis and his son, Venture Scout Raymond Souleotis.

(contributed photos)

Third annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes raises more than $25,000 for RISE of Sullivan County

HARRIS (April 25) - More than 300 men, women and children walked a mile on Broadway and around the Sullivan County Government Center in Monticello on Saturday, April 20, at the 3rd Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® to help raise funds for Catskill Regional Medical Center’s (CRMC) Rape Intervention Services and Education (RISE) program of Sullivan County.

The event, which is the international men’s march to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence, featured a speaking program and reception after the walk, and yielded more than $25,000 from walkers, fundraisers and event sponsors. Guest speakers included Fred Kuriger, CEO for CRMC; Jim Farrell, Sullivan County District Attorney; Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and Senator John Bonacic.

(contributed photo)

“This year’s event exceeded all of our expectations,” said Sarah Dittmar, RISE Program Manager. “We grew from 125 to 300 walkers and our committee worked very hard to make it a success. I would like to personally thank our Co-Chairs, Barbara and Richard Sush for all of their hard work, along with the rest of the committee. Raising the funds for this program is important, but the awareness this event creates is even more significant. We appreciate all of the assistance we received, and thank our sponsors, fundraisers and walkers who participated this year.”

RISE advocates for anyone who is or has been a survivor of sexual abuse. Founded in 1987, RISE provides an array of services to victims of sexual abuse and offers prevention education, advocacy and assistance to victims, and accompanies them to the hospital, police or district attorney after an incident. RISE also offers confidential individual, family or couples counseling as well as support groups and professional training sessions. The RISE program is funded by grants, in part provided by the Sullivan County Rural Health Network.

For more information about RISE, contact Sarah Dittmar at CRMC, 845-794-3300 ext. 2442. Donations are still being accepted and can be made through the RISE page at www.crmcny.org 

Two promoted in Ulster Sheriff Office

Storey

McKenzie

KINGSTON (April 18) – Ulster County Sheriff Paul VanBlarcum announces two promotions in the Criminal Division of the Ulster County Sheriff's Office.  

Chad Storey was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.  Sgt. Storey joined the Sheriff's Office in 1998 and formerly held the ranks of Deputy and Detective. 

The sheriff also promoted Stuart McKenzie to Detective.  Detective McKenzie joined the agency in 1999 and previously was a Deputy. 

Three Rockland Poets Laureate named

NEW CITY (April 14) - County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef and County Legislature Chairwoman Harriet Cornell announced the reappointment of Dan Masterson as Poet Laureate along with the posthumous appointments of revered Rockland poets Marya Zaturenska and her husband Horace Gregory as honorary Poets Laureate.

“For decades, Poet Laureate Masterson’s love and passion for poetry has enabled him to encourage, teach, and mentor new generations of poets, authors and screenwriters,“ said Vanderhoef. “His prize-winning poems have appeared in major publications on two continents where they serve as an inspiration to many people.”

“Dan Masterson is inspiring a new generation of young visual and literary artists,” said Cornell.  “It was he who recognized the importance of poets Zaturenska and Gregory, who resided in Rockland for many years.  He is a wonderful Poet Laureate, who contributes so much to the cultural life of Rockland.”

Cornell, Masterson, Vanderhoef, joined by Clarkstown North High School student poet Piera Licht, second from right, invited by Masterson to attend the event

Dan Masterson was named the county’s first Poet Laureate in 2009 and has been reappointed to an unlimited term.  Masterson is currently completing his 49th year at Rockland Community College, and is the College’s first Poet-in-Residence. He is the recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the author of four published books, the latest, his New and Selected: All Things, Seen and Unseen. His work has appeared in an eclectic array of journals including The New Yorker, The Paris Review, and The London Magazine. Elected to membership in PEN International in 1978, the 79-year-old poet and founding editor of the Enskyment Online Poetry Anthology, has been awarded two Pushcart Prizes, as well as the Bullis, Borestone, and Fels Poetry awards. In 2006, Syracuse University assumed stewardship of “The Dan Masterson Papers” for its Special Collections Research Center. Masterson is continuing his ongoing project of working with student poets enrolled in county high schools.

Marya Zaturenska (1902-1982), the American lyric poet, was posthumously appointed Honorary Poet Laureate.  Zaturenska was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1938 and thereafter garnered many additional honors including the Shelley and John Reed prizes from Poetry magazine. She was born in Kiev, Ukraine, and came to the United States with her parents in 1909. She was naturalized in 1912. She helped her family by dropping out of school to work in a clothing factory and a bookstore during the day. She attended high school classes in the evenings. An outstanding student, she won a scholarship to Valparaiso University; she later transferred to the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she received a degree in library science and met her future husband, poet Horace Gregory. Widely published and read, much of her poetry appeared in The New York Times Book Review and the aforementioned Poetry magazine. In 1922 she wed the poet Horace Gregory.

Horace Gregory (1898-1982), a prize-winning American poet, translator of classic poetry, literary critic, college professor, and spouse of Marya Zaturenska, was also awarded the posthumous appointment as Honorary Poet Laureate.  Gregory was awarded The Bollingen Prize for Poetry in 1965; he joined the likes of Robert Frost, Theodore Roethke, W. H. Auden, and Ezra Pound as recipients of the coveted honor that recognizes a poet’s lifetime achievements. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1898, the young Gregory was schooled mainly at home. His mother led him into a lifetime of reading. He visited New York City in 1918, returned home to start writing poetry, earn a degree from The University of Wisconsin-Madison, marry the poet Marya Zaturenska, and head back to Manhattan with his bride. He managed to make a living as a copywriter and reviewer, and in 1933 joined the faculty at Sarah Lawrence College where he taught modern poetry and classics until his retirement in 1960. Professor Gregory’s poetry reveals his facility for shaping elegiac monologues, especially through the focus of working people. His interest in spiritualism took root in his poetry as a result of meeting W. B. Yeats during a trip to Dublin, Ireland.

Zaturenska and Gregory resided in Palisades, New York for many years. Their 60-year marriage ended with their deaths from natural causes, months apart, in 1982.  The Palisades Free Library has several of both authors’ books in the library’s Local Author Collection.

Adriance Library offers teen spring programs

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 7) - The Adriance Memorial Library is sponsoring several Spring Programs in its Teen Room, which is dedicated to 13 to 18 year olds.

More details on our Education Page

Town of Newburgh Police Department Citizen’s Police Academy

TOWN OF NEWBURGH (April 2) - The Town of Newburgh Police Department is looking for interested members of the public to attend an upcoming session of the Citizen’s Police Academy. Classes will be held on Tuesday nights from 6:30pm to 9pm at the police station from April 16th through June 18th. 

The Citizen’s Police Academy is designed to offer the general public a glimpse of many different aspects of police work.  The police department hopes to inform the public of our role in the community meet and interact with citizens in a friendly atmosphere and improve overall police-community relations.

If you are over 18 years of age and interested in participating you can stop by the Police Station or Town Hall to complete an application.  There is no cost to attend.

Any questions or to have an application sent by e-mail please contact Sgt. Patrick Cadden at 845-564-1100 or pcadden@townofnewburghpd.org. 

Groundbreaking for Tyrone Crabb Memorial Park  

NEWBURGH (April 2) - City officials past and present joined the family of the late Tyrone Crabb for the groundbreaking of the park at South and Grand Street dedicated in his name. Former Mayor Nick Valentine, former City Manager Harry Porr, and former Councilman Steve Rockafellow were on hand along with Steve Gold, Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Frank Skartados, Mayor Judy Kennedy, Deputy Mayor Regina Angelo, and City Manager Richard Herbek.

A City Councilman from 1985-1989, Tyrone Crabb was elected Mayor in November of 1999, and died Dec. 22, 1999 soon after taking the oath of office but before his official term could begin. During his career he was a teacher at Newburgh Free Academy, an Orange County Mental Health Caseworker, served on the New York State Planning and Advisory Board under three governors, and was Chairman of the Newburgh Republican Committee and the Newburgh Housing Authority.  Following his death, the City Council appointed his widow, Mary Crabb, to serve as Mayor.

Community members have lobbied for a park on the vacant lot across from Calvary Presbyterian Church and Old Town Cemetery since the late 1990’s. The original design concept for Tyrone Crabb Memorial Park was created by local architect Drew Kartiganer.  But, for years, the City’s finances would not support the creation of this park or many other projects.

When the City was finally able to allocate funds to match a grant from New York State Department of Parks, and Tyrone Crabb Memorial Park seemed ready to move ahead, an archeological survey located 19th century ruins on the site, and the project temporarily stalled.  The Department of Planning & Development, the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), community members, and project architects Eberlin and Eberlin Associates, adjusted the design so the park can be built while respecting the site’s history.

City officials, community leaders and citizens took part in the groundbreaking

Construction of Tyrone Crabb Memorial Park is expected to commence later this year. As a final tribute read, it will be “dedicated to a man who always knew that people’s similarities are more profound than their differences, and was determined to prove it.”

“Having had the pleasure of working with him on my first campaign in the City of Newburgh, Tyrone Crabb’s leadership and dedication to the City was something I kept with me all my years of office", said former Mayor Nicholas Valentine.  "Therefore, dedicating a park in his name is something that I am truly proud of.” 

State declares April “Dig Safely Month”

PEARL RIVER (April. 2) – The most important piece of power equipment for planting and yard, garden and lawn work this spring isn’t a backhoe, auger, bulldozer or grader.  The most important power digging tool for homeowners, excavators and landscaping contractors is the telephone and the easy-to-remember, toll-free, one-stop number 811.

That’s the nationwide One-Call Notification System’s phone number --- 811 --- the one number you Call Before You Dig.

New York State has declared April as “Dig Safely Month” and O&R urges you to make sure you’re clear of all underground utility lines running through your property before you or your contractor breaks ground for a home addition, shed, fence, tree or other project that requires any excavation, drilling or digging with power tools.

How do you make sure you’re clear? Call 811.

If your shovel, backhoe or other mechanized excavation equipment strikes an underground electric or natural gas line, water or sewer pipe or communications cable, you run the risk of serious accident, injury or costly property damage. You could also disrupt essential utility service and find yourself with an expensive repair bill.

To avoid that risk, call 811. It’s the law.

If a natural gas line is damaged during excavation or at any other time, immediately evacuate the area and call O&R’s Gas Emergency Hotline at 1-800-533-5325. For digging accidents that damage underground electric cables, call O&R at 1-877-434-4100.

For more details about working safely around O&R’s underground and overhead equipment, see our Web site at www.oru.com. For more information about the 811 One-Call Notification System, visit the www.call811.com website.  

Chamber Foundation receives grant to benefit Youth Leadership Program

POUGHKEEPSIE (April 1) - The Chamber Foundation, Inc., the non-profit educational organization of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, has received a grant from Stewart’s Holiday Match Program in support of the Youth Leadership Program.

More details on our Business Page

Mary Etta Schneider receives Washington’s Headquarters’ 2013 Martha Washington Woman of History Award

Schneider with Historic Site Manager Elyse Goldberg (photo provided)

NEWBURGH (April 1) - During Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site’s annual program, “The General’s Lady,” honoring Martha Washington, Mary Etta Schneider was given the “2013 Martha Washington Woman of History Award.” Ms. Schneider joins an august group of women who have been acknowledged in the past at Washington’s Headquarters for their contributions towards the advancement and preservation of history in the Hudson Valley.

Ms. Schneider dedicates her time and resources as an advisor, fund-raiser and supporter of major nonprofit organizations benefitting education, history, and the preservation of the Hudson Valley. She currently serves as President and Board Chair of Historic Huguenot Street and also serves on the Board of the State University of New York at the New Paltz Foundation.

“We must think creatively and work together to ensure that our authentic historic sites and heritage are relevant and preserved as inspiration for future generations,” Schneider said. 
Her hope is that 250 years from now another woman will be recognized for her contributions to history, at the site of  Washington’s Headquarters, in the home where Jonathan and Tryntje (Catherine Dubois) Hasbrouck resided.

Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site is a registered national historic landmark at the corner of Liberty and Washington Streets in the city of Newburgh’s East End Historic District.  For more information visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/washingtonsheadquarters.

Dr. Caldwell, Mayor Bloomberg celebrate 10th anniversary of NYC smoke free law

Caldwell, left, and Bloomberg (photo provided)

NEW YORK (April 1) – Dutchess County Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Caldwell was with Mayor Bloomberg, CDC Director Tom Frieden and NYC Commissioner of Health Thomas Farley at the Museum for the City of New York recently to celebrate the tenth anniversary of  the NYC Clean Air Act.

It was this law and the Dutchess County law led by then County Legislator Molinaro that eventually led to the New York State Clean Indoor Air Law.

Hundreds of SUNY students opt for “Alternative Spring Break” to Aid Hurricane Sandy relief efforts

ALBANY (March 20) - Hundreds of SUNY students from campuses across the system have volunteered to spend their spring break in New York aiding in Hurricane Sandy clean up and recovery efforts.

More details on our Education Page

Huguenot Street seeking volunteers 

Deyo Hall

NEW PALTZ (March 20) - Historic Huguenot Street, a National Historic Landmark District, will be holding an information session about volunteer opportunities on Wednesday, April 3 at 7:00 p.m., Deyo Hall, 6 Broadhead Ave., New Paltz.

Attendees should enjoy working with the public and have an interest in local history, architecture, culture, archaeology, art and/or antiques.

Volunteer opportunities include Visitor Center Greeters and Tour Guides/Docents. Training begins mid-April for the museum season May through October. Perks for volunteers include free tours and discounted admission for events and lectures. RSVP for this session is not required.
  
Parking is available adjacent to and across from Deyo Hall. Light refreshments will be served.

For additional information, please call Rebecca Mackey, Director of Visitor Services at 845-255-1660, ext. 105 or email rebecca@huguenotstreet.org.

NFA club raises money for Family Promise

NEWBURGH (March 20) - Two dozen Newburgh Free Academy Interact Club members participated in the Family Promise 3rd Annual Bowl-a-thon

More details, photo, on our Education Page.

Cub Scouts earn highest award

After earning the award, the recipients were inducted into Boy Scout Troop 28

NEWBURGH (March 10)  - Cub Scout pack 28 recently presented Danny Mcgarvey, Julian Martinez, and Jake Pagano with The Arrow of Light Award. The Arrow of Light is the highest award That can be earned by a Cub Scout and is the only Cub Scout Award he may wear on his Boy Scout Uniform.

For Information on getting involved in Scouting in our area Contact the Hudson Valley Council Office at 845-566-7300.

United Way sponsors scholarship honoring the late Bob Rosen

MONTICELLO (March 10) - United Way of Sullivan County announces that applications are available for the fourth annual scholarship honoring the late Bob Rosen. 

More details on our Education Page

Cornwall-on-Hudson RiverFest set for June 1, vendors invited

CORNWALL-ON-HUDSON (March 10) The Village of Cornwall-on-Hudson will host its 16th annual RiverFest, Saturday, June 1

More information on our Business Page

NYSEG and RG&E launch online rewards program for residential customers who slash energy use

ROCHESTER (March 6) – NYSEG and RG&E, subsidiaries of Iberdrola USA, have launched a free online energy efficiency program for residential customers. Energy Saver provides personalized energy-saving recommendations and rewards NYSEG and RG&E customers with points based on how much energy they save. The points can be redeemed for discounts from online retailers.

“This online program offers our residential customers commonsense and effective tools to help them reduce their energy use and their bills,” said Mark S. Lynch, president of NYSEG and RG&E.  “Best of all, the program rewards customers for their success.”

How the Program Works

1. Join the Energy Saver program by going to www.nyseg.com or www.rge.com and clicking on the Energy Saver get started button.
2. Learn about energy-saving actions and recommendations. (Location, weather and home profile are factored to make personalized recommendations.)
3. Save money and get rewarded for making smarter choices. Each month participants are sent emails showing how much energy they have saved and how many rewards points they earned.
4. With verified reductions in energy use, participants automatically receive two points for every kilowatt hour (kwh) of electricity saved and 20 points for every therm of natural gas saved compared to the previous year.

Any NYSEG or RG&E residential customer with an active account can join the program. Customers with accounts that have been active for at least one year will be able to accumulate reward points if they save energy compared to the previous year.

The Energy Saver program is funded by the System Benefits Charge (SBC) which New York utility customers pay through their electricity and/or natural gas bills.

For 2012 through 2015, NYSEG and RG&E have a collective goal of reducing annual electricity consumption by 370 million kwh and annual natural gas consumption by 15 million therms through energy efficiency programs.

Other Residential Energy Efficiency Programs

• Refrigerator Freezer Recycling Program: Offers removal and environmentally-responsible recycling of a second refrigerator or freezer. Qualifying residential electric customers receive $30 and can save up to $150 a year in reduced energy costs.
• Residential Natural Gas Rebate Program: Rebates for residential gas customers installing qualifying natural gas equipment and related control equipment.
• Multi-Family Program: Free installation of compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) in apartments or condominiums. Free installation of energy efficient faucet aerators and showerheads, and water pipe heat wrap in apartments where water is heated by electricity. Incentives also cover up to 50% of the cost of lighting upgrades in common areas.

Non-Residential Energy Efficiency Programs

• Small Business Energy Efficiency Program: Offers eligible customers a free energy assessment and incentives toward energy-efficient lighting upgrades.
• Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program: Offers eligible customers the opportunity to design custom rebates for their specific energy needs or qualify for predetermined rebates for installing qualifying equipment, including lighting; natural gas furnaces, boilers and controls; unitary HVAC; air-to-air heat pumps; and chillers.
• Block Bidding Program: Similar to an auction, bidders are offered the opportunity to submit proposed energy savings and a bid price to achieve those savings. If the bid is accepted, NYSEG or RG&E will pay the customer if they achieve their energy savings target.

Since the first of the NYSEG and RG&E energy efficiency programs were launched in 2009, more than 51,000 of the companies’ customers have participated. Those customers are saving more than 72 million kilowatt-hours (kwh) of electricity and more than 2 million therms of natural gas each year – enough electricity to power more than 9,300 homes for a year and enough natural gas to heat more than 2,100 homes for a year.

For more information, visit www.nyseg.com/Energyefficiencyprograms/default.html or www.rge.com/Energyefficiencyprograms/default.html.

County Executive Odell and visiting vet exchange gifts

Zachman and Odell, with the cap

CARMEL (February 27) - Members of American Legion Post 270 were driving through Carmel last week checking on the condition of American flags displayed at various public sites. John Zacman, above left, paid a brief visit to County Executive MaryEllen Odell to suggest a replacement be obtained for the weather-worn flag at Spain Cornerstone Park. The next day, County Highway Department workers replaced the flag with a new one.

While in her office, Odell showed Zacman her collection of coins and historical pins and gave him a Putnam County Bicentennial pin. In return, Zacman presented Odell with his 1st Infantry Division cap.

HHS board president to receive Martha Washington Woman of History Award

NEW PALTZ (February 27) - Historic Huguenot Street announces that Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site has named HHS President and Board Chair Mary Etta Schneider the 2013 recipient of the Martha Washington Woman of History Award.

Schneider is being recognized for dedicating her time and resources as an advisor, fundraiser and supporter of major nonprofit organizations benefiting education, history, and the preservation of the Hudson Valley. She currently serves as President and Board Chair of Historic Huguenot Street and also serves on the Board of the State University of New York at New Paltz Foundation.

Schneider’s efforts are particularly focused on Historic Huguenot Street, where she works to ensure that this privately-funded, National Historic Landmark District remains grounded in its mission to preserve history and educate the public.

“Recognizing the financial, preservation and educational challenges facing house museums, Mary Etta led the Board in repositioning Historic Huguenot Street in order to preserve it for future generations,” said HHS Executive Director Tracy McNally. “She helped shape this significant historic site into a focused operation, and has created a pathway toward becoming an economically sustainable model for other under-recognized historic properties.”

As validation of Historic Huguenot Street’s historic significance, in August 2012 HHS was selected as one of two hundred most significant sites in Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s New York “Path Through History,” a statewide roadmap that features historic sites and events throughout the Empire State, bringing more visitors through improved highway signage and enhanced civic awareness. 

There are enduring personal reasons for Schneider’s commitment to HHS and the Hudson Valley. She is descended from many of the French settlers who founded New Paltz in 1677. She also has direct family ties to Washington Headquarters in Newburgh. She is descended from Abraham Hasbrouck, grandfather of Jonathan Hasbrouck, builder and owner of the stone house that became Washington’s Headquarters.

“It is especially gratifying to receive Martha Washington Woman of History Award at the site of my ancestor’s home and to be recognized for doing work that is so close to my heart and heritage,” Schneider said.

The presentation of the “Martha Washington Woman of History Award” will take place on March 23, 2013 at Washington’s Headquarters, during the organization’s Women’s History Month program, “The General’s Lady.” The public is welcome to attend the program, starting at 1:00 p.m. For further details or directions, call 845-562-1195.

Family Services doubles sessions for new  Homicide Survivors Support Group now meeting twice a month

POUGHKEEPSIE (February 25) - A recently formed support group for survivors of homicide victims is now meeting twice a month, a spokesperson for Family Services’ Crime Victims Assistance Program has announced.

The first such support group in the region specifically for family and friends of homicide victims was launched last month. Meetings were scheduled for the first Monday of each month at the Family Services’ North Annex Building at 29 North Hamilton St. in Poughkeepsie from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. But increased demand for the service prompted Family Services to schedule group sessions on the first and third Mondays of each month, said Kathy Peluso, coordinator of the Crime Victims Assistance Program.

Peluso said 12 survivors have already joined the support group. After speaking to them, she said she decided there was a need for a second session each month. Participants may attend either session, or both.

The support group is already changing the lives of those who are attending, Peluso said. She quoted one participant as saying, “I felt so much better after the first meeting. I have been in bereavement groups before, but this was different because I felt more understood since everyone had experienced the loss of a loved one as a result of a violent act instead of a natural death.”

Those interested in attending a meeting or for more information, should contact Peluso at 845-452-1110 ext. 3138.

Family Services CEO Brian Doyle said he was heartened to learn the support group was already making a difference in people’s lives.

“Family Services is committed to addressing the need to emotionally support these individuals who are left with such a heavy weight of sorrow and trauma,” Doyle said. “We hope that the formation of the survivors of homicide victims group will aid them in the healing process.”

There were 770 homicides in New York State in 2011, seven of which occurred in Dutchess County, according the New York State Department of Criminal Justice.  The psychological trauma of the murder of a family member or loved one leaves the survivor victimized physically, emotionally, financially, socially and spiritually. In addition to family members and friends, the victims’ neighbors, co-workers and community members may also experience psychological trauma following a homicide. 

Family Services’ Crime Victims Assistance Program provides comprehensive services to victims of crime, including advocacy, trauma therapy, and rape crisis services.  Family Services’ Domestic Violence Services of Dutchess County  (DVSDC) provides non-residential services to victims of domestic violence, including advocacy, counseling, and safety planning.  Services of both programs are free, confidential, and accessible. Services for victims at Family Services can be accessed 24 hours a day: Crime Victims’ hotline--(845) 452-7272; DVSDC hotline--(845) 485-5550.

Nominations wanted for Ulster County Senior of the Year 

KINGSTON (February 11) - Every year, the Ulster County Office for the Aging Advisory Council, together with County Executive Mike Hein and his Office for the Aging Director Anne Cardinale selects two extraordinary seniors as “Senior of the Year.”  The County Executive is seeking citizens who have made significant contributions to enhance the lives of seniors within their community.

“Seniors are such an integral part of our community and their positive impacts are felt in such diverse ways,” said Hein.  “Each year we recognize two extraordinary people who stand out among their peers.  I look forward to hearing about all of the wonderful senior citizens that make Ulster County such a special place to live.”

The two age categories for the “Senior of the Year” award are (1) age 60 to 74; and (2) age 75 and older.  Nominations are welcome from anyone and must be submitted by April 1, 2013.

If you know anyone who deserves this recognition, please describe his/her accomplishment and/or contributions concisely and completely in one page or less.  Include the nominee’s address, phone number and age, as well as your own contact information and submit to: 

Ulster County Office for the Aging
1003 Development Court
Kingston, NY 12401. 

Please call the Office for the Aging with any questions at: (845)-340-3456 or toll free 1-877-914-3456.

Nussbickels, Pages to be honored by Family Services

POUGHKEEPSIE (February 3) – Millbrook residents Wayne and Brigid Nussbickel and the Page family and Page Park Associates of Dutchess County will be honored as Family Services 2013 Families of the Year for their service to their community, Chief Executive Officer Brian Doyle announced.

The Family of the Year dinner will be held April 25 at the Grandview in Poughkeepsie. The event is held annually to honor families whose service to the community exemplifies the values of Family Services. The Nussbickels will be given the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Page family and Page Park Associates will receive the Spirit of the Future Award.

“The Family of the Year event is a great way to recognize the honorees’ contributions and to celebrate Family Services’ positive impact on the community,” Doyle said. “Both of these families have made a tremendous impact on our community, both in their business contributions and their personal involvement in the civic life of Dutchess County and beyond.”

For information about tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Jean Calyer at 845-452-1110 or at jcalyer@familyservicesny.org.

Nussbickle family

Wayne Nussbickel is President and Chief Executive Officer of N&S Supply, a plumbing and heating supply company based in Fishkill. In 2006 he was honored by the Poughkeepsie Journal as Dutchess County Business Person of the Year. The same year he received the Marist College President’s Award for Community Service. In 2009 he received the Gateway for Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow Entrepreneur of the Year Award. The following year, he and Brigid received the Dutches County Arts Council Patron Award. Wayne served as chair of the Arts Council Fund last year.

Nussbickel is chairman of the Nussbickel Scholarship Committee for the Dutchess  County Regional Chamber of Commerce and is past board chair of the Community Foundation of Dutchess County and the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation. He was a founding member of the Economic Development Corporation.

Brigid is a teacher in the Arlington Central School District. She co-chairs the Nussbickel Scholarship Committee for the Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Community Foundation Partners in Education Grant Selection Committee.

William and Helen Page are natives of Dutchess County and the parents of four sons, Brian, Steven, Darin and Jason. William’s father, Henry G. Page Sr., founded the H.G. Page & Sons building supply firm in 1924. William is a member of the LaGrange Rotary Club and is a past recipient of the Rotarian of the year Award. Helen serves on the board of the Beatrix Farrand Garden Association and is a member of the Poughkeepsie Garden Club and the Junior League of Poughkeepsie.

Page family

Part of the community since 1879, Family Services has been making a difference in people’s lives for over 130 years.   For information, visit www.familyservicesny.org.  Family Services has programs in Dutchess and Ulster counties. 

Community links (Each link opens in a new window)

Not-for-profit community service organizations are invited to submit links to their websites. Organizations must not preach hate or intolerance in any form or advocate public discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin or sexual orientation.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orange County
www.cce.cornell.edu/orange

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County
www.cce.cornell.edu/ulster/ulster.html

Faith and Community ACTION - Dutchess County  
http://fcaction.org/

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh
www.habitat-greater-newburgh.org

Hilltowns Community Board
News of Southern Albany, Greene & Schoharie Counties
www.thehilltowns.com

Hopewell Junction Citizens for Clean Water
www.hopewell-junction-citizens-for-clean-water.org

Mid-Hudson Horse Trails Association
www.midhudsonhorsetrails.org

National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)
www.narfeny.org

Orange County Citizens Foundation-
www.occf-ny.org/

Orange County Land Trust  
www.oclt.org

Salvation Army of Newburgh  
http://web.mac.com/sanewburgh/iWeb/Site/Welcome.html

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 537 Hudson Highlands   
www.vva537.org/