Mountaindale Renaissance Project Moving Foward

Our 2011 Renaissance Project is slowly moving forward, our plans to build a sculptural interpretation of a train just inside the "Rails to Trails" corridor entrance taking shape.

News about the Renaissance Project.

1. We are hoping to have water access to our site area by the end of this week (June 10th). Good thing with this heat wave we are experiencing.

2. Thanks to the generous donation of a local citizens (who chooses to remain nameless), last Saturday saw us bring in a great deal of rehab lumber...we are currently cleaning the nails out of this in preparation for building. This fits in with our overall GREEN THEME for the project, which includes creative re-use of materials whenever possible. This also saves our budget for use in other areas of the project. For those wondering, we could REALLY USE A) some treated 2x12's, B) Some four inch decking screws (guessing about ten pounds), and another sheet or two of plywood at the moment. Also, anyone have some rebar we could cut into three foot pieces?

3. Thanks to the generous support of our Renaissance Project, we have had another member of our community, Marty Weiner step up big time...he is in the process of lining up ten 55 gallon drums that we need for the project. Wondering if anyone out there has some 8, 10 and 12 inch diameter pipe (three foot sections) laying around we could requisition for our steam stacks on the Locomotive? We would also LOVE LOVE LOVE finding an old bell.

4. We are trying to tracking down FOUR old wagon wheels of identical size that we can use as the back wheels of this project...anyone have leads on this item?

5. We have gotten much of the site area clean up done, and our intern for this year Aaron Schmitt seems very enthusiastic about the project...speaking of interns, as Committee Chair, I have to get more adept at the paperwork end of this project.

6. The first steps of the installation project are slated to begin later this week, so if you see us in the Rails to Trails area working, stop by and say hello.

Look for a MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT about our July Fund Raiser soon...It will be a really fun evening of wine, food and music!

2nd ANNUAL O&W RAILS TO TRAILS RACE-Request For Sponsorships!

Greetings Walkers and Runners!

It is that time of year again, and the Sullivan Striders and Fallsburg O&W Rail Trail Committee are busy making plans for the second annual O&W Rails to Trails Race, and are looking for a helping hand from all our wonderful local shops and businesses...without the help/sponsorship from these folks, this race would not be possible, and without the race, a lot of the improvements as well as maintenance of our beautiful trail would not be possible. Below is their Press Release/Letter, and hope everyone reading this will consider making a donation, as well as joining in the fun of this event as a volunteer or participant in the run or walk on July 17th! You can print this article, fill out the sponsorship information, and MAIL IT IN TODAY! For questions, or additional questions you can email: mmanza1@hvc.rr.com

More news on the event itself in coming days!

Dear Friend,

On July 17, 2011 the Fallsburg O&W Rail Trail Committee, with help from the Sullivan Striders Running and Walking Club, is sponsoring a 4 mile run and 2 mile walk to benefit the Mountaindale, Woodridge and Fallsburg rail to trail projects. These communities are working together to beautify the trails for everyone’s enjoyment.

Our projects include landscaping, trail maintenance, signage, trail markers, creating parking areas and much more. Eventually, we will have a continuous trail with maps and brochures, resting areas, visitor’s centers and our dream bridge over the Neversink River where the old train track crossed from Woodridge to South Fallsburg.

The Rails to Trails Race will help defray some of our operating expenses. Most work on the trails is completed by volunteers but supplies are needed to keep this project alive. You can help to keep this important cause going by being a sponsor to our running race and walk. The race is an excellent way to get “acquainted” with the rail trail in our hometown.

One way for us to achieve our goals is to ask you, our friends, our family and business acquaintances to support this race by becoming a sponsor. We greatly appreciate any contributions or donations in kind that you are able to provide to us.

The sponsorship categories are as follows:

$500.00-Company name/logo will be prominently printed on the back of our event tee shirts and at mile markers.

$250.00-Company name/logo will be prominently printed on the back of our event tee shirts.

$100.00-Company name/logo will be printed on the back of our event tee shirts.
$ 50.00-Company name will be printed on the back of our event tee shirts.

$ 25.00-Company name will be printed on the back of our event tee shirts.

If you are interested in helping us attain our goal in making this fundraiser and race a success, please complete the enclosed sponsor form and return as soon as possible. Please make your check payable to the Sullivan Striders Club-Rails to Trail Race. If you have any questions regarding the race, becoming a sponsor or volunteering please feel free to contact Maryann Manza at 845-313-2560 or Allen Frishman at 845-701-1984.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Maryann Manza, Race Coordinator & Committee Member
Kim Klemen, Sullivan Striders Club President
Allen Frishman, Fallsburg O&W Rail Trail Committee Chair
2nd ANNUAL O&W RAILS TO TRAILS RACE Sponsorship Information:

Name

Address

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Telephone

Contact person, if a business ___________________________

Donation amount enclosed:

$500.00*
$250.00*
$100.00*
$50.00
$25.00
$10.00
Other

Mail completed form to:
Sullivan Striders Club O & W Rails To Trails Race
PO Box 702
Rock Hill, NY 12775-0702

*For those sponsoring $500.00, $250.00 or $100.00 please provide us with your company logo.

If you’d like to receive an acknowledgment for the amount of your donation please check here.

It's OFFICIAL! With Help From Social Media and Twitter, Roscoe is WFN's Ultimate Fish Town

Great news for Roscoe, and the larger community of Sullivan County...today it is official, Roscoe is WFN's ULTIMATE FISH TOWN, and deserves a well earned CONGRATULATIONS from everyone. It was apparent early on in the finals that the contest was going to come down to two communities, both of them here in New York. (Waddington and Roscoe) Both towns put up some very serious numbers with the lead sometimes changing multiple times each day. One thing is certain...both towns had an understanding of SMO (Social Media Optimization, and deployed it in running up their voting totals, with Roscoe prevailing on the very last day. One thing is certain, though no one knows for sure how many votes were generated through the smart use of SMO, Roscoe today would not be WFN's Ultimate Fish Town without it. @inroscoefishing and @roscoeny threw up large numbers (over 1000 tweets) on Twitter, the mentions and and retweets on @inroscoefishing numbering into the hundreds. So, a wink to the folks at Marcwood Social Imaging...you know who you are.

The WFN Official Press Release:

Roscoe, NY named 2011 WFN: World Fishing Network's Ultimate Fishing Town USA Presented by Eagle Claw

After More Than One Million Votes Were Cast, Roscoe, NY Edges Waddington, NY For Title and $25,000 Grand Prize

TORONTO, ON - JUNE 6, 2011 - Although New York is best known for the theatre, fine restaurants and the world-class nightlife, it is also a great place to wet a line. In fact, after anglers cast more than one million online votes at www.wfnfishingtown.com, Roscoe, NY has been selected as the 2011 WFN: World Fishing Network's Ultimate Fishing Town USA Presented by Eagle Claw. The announcement was made by Mark Rubinstein, President and CEO of World Fishing Network, North America's only 24/7 fishing channel.

Representatives from The Roscoe - Rockland Chamber of Commerce will receive a $25,000 donation to be used towards a fishing-related cause and 10 WaveSpin Reels at a local ceremony emceed by Mariko Izumi, host of WFN's popular fishing and travel show Hookin' Up. The town will also receive national recognition from the honor and have a feature produced about fishing in Roscoe to air on WFN.

"We are so proud and thrilled to receive the title of WFN Ultimate Fishing Town USA," said Elaine Fettig of The Roscoe - Rockland Chamber of Commerce, the group who spearheaded the town's efforts. "This experience brought our community and the surrounding areas together -- from folks spreading the word about the contest; to the media speaking about it frequently; to business owners allowing staff to vote during the business day. We look forward to the opportunities this award will provide to Roscoe, and we thank WFN for bringing our community together in support of a common goal."

Roscoe, N.Y., also known as "Trout Town USA", is a small hamlet of about 600 people with such a strong fishing history that it has been known as Trout Town USA for decades. Its choice natural setting offers anglers five of America's top trout streams and numerous reservoirs and lakes. It is conveniently located approximately two hours from New York City, Connecticut and New Jersey at the gateway to the Catskill Park and surrounded by over 20,000 acres of State Forest Preserve. In addition to world class fishing there are a significant number of cultural and other attractions nearby as well, from the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on the former site of the Woodstock Festival to museums, covered bridges, arts societies, fine shops and more.

After more than 300 towns all across the U.S.A. were nominated in March, a preliminary round of voting in April narrowed the field to 20 finalists. The competition quickly became a two town race as Roscoe and Waddington, N.Y. traded places atop the leader board. In the end, Roscoe edged Waddington by a small margin.

"We commend all of the towns for their enthusiasm, passion and pride and wanting to invite anglers all across the U.S.A. to experience everything their town has to offer," said Mr. Rubinstein. "WFN's search for our Ultimate Fishing Town was not just about finding the place to catch the most fish. As any angler will tell you, and as Roscoe proved, the people are just as important a factor. Roscoe's passionate angling community stepped-up to prove that their pride, passion and fishing are second to none."

As the runner-up, Waddington, NY will be awarded $5,000 while the third place finisher, Baudette, MN will receive $2,500.

Click here for the order of finish for the Top 20 finalists.

The promotion is being supported by Eagle Claw, proud manufacturers of fishing gear and tackle in the USA since 1925 and WaveSpin Reels, the only reel with a tangle-free guarantee. Charter Communications, Knology and AT&T u-verse also provided promotional support in select markets.

About WFN: World Fishing Network

WFN: World Fishing Network is the only 24/7 television network dedicated to all segments of fishing with programming that covers instruction, tips, tournaments, travel, food, boating, outdoor lifestyle and more. WFN's wide-ranging programming lineup includes primetime theme nights, regional bureaus from across the nation, a selection of the best international series and the most diverse species coverage of any TV channel. Featuring popular programs hosted by the world's top anglers, the schedule includes a variety of exclusive lifestyle shows including: Hookin' Up with Mariko Izumi, Reel Fishy Jobs with Mark Melnyk, Lost Lake and Getting School'd with JP DeRose. The beauty of WFN's programming is available in 100 percent stunning High Definition. WFN's multimedia platform includes a mobile portal, WFN Fishing Log (fishing app for the iPhone and iPad) and a robust fishing website, www.WorldfFishingNetwork.com.

Originally launched in December 2005, today WFN and WFN HD are available in more than 30 million households through North American cable, satellite and telecommunications distributors including DISH Network, Charter, Comcast, AT&T U-Verse, Verizon FiOS and more. For more information, visit www.WorldfFishingNetwork.com.

Wanted...a Few Old Salvagable Bungalows

As a kid, took great glee in the adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Looking back at my youth, think the joy I found in those adventures can be attributed too my own affinity and love of the River Boats in those adventures, to the fact that those small fragments of history in the stories touched my own life. I lived on the Ohio River in the small town of Jeffersonville, Indiana which is right across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, remember to this day with fondness the great old Stern-wheelers the "Belle of Louisville" and the "Delta Queen" heading up and down the Ohio River, the black smoke billowing from their stacks, the American Flag proudly fluttering in the breeze on a summer's day.

We lived just outside of town by the time I was six, and I would spend my days wondering the railroad tracks behind my house, picking up old railroad spikes, sometimes jumping into a box car in the siding to look for treasures. Other days saw me wondering fields, exploring around old abandoned barns, and farm houses slowly decaying back into the ground. As I grew older, my collection of old bottles, discarded enamel wear and other trinkets grew, as did my appreciation for these relics from a time long ago past. There was/is a certain majesty in the old houses and barns I explored, their tenacious attempts to hold their footprint upon the earth a losing battle as roofs sagged in, collapsing inside walls still barely standing. Each having a story needing to be heard, but going unheard, collectively, a history being lost as the story of those buildings, the lives lived in them passing with seasons that help Mother Nature reclaim them into the environment.

Fast forward, my own life now in it's golden years, my bones on cold nights feeling their age. I still have a love of old buildings, find myself enjoying the photographic opportunities afforded here in Sullivan County, the countryside here rich with old homes and bungalows slowing, yet gracefully giving up their ghosts, too often the stories to be told lost as once magnificent structures slowly collapse in on themselves, hints of their past there for the discerning folks willing to take the time to see them. Small signs under a collapsed roof that announce the location of a coffee shop hint of what a large sprawling house used to be...a boarding house, or perhaps even a small hotel catering to guests back in the 30's and 40's when trains would cough up their passengers looking to get away from the big city for a few days, or perhaps the whole summer.

The longer I am in Sullivan County, the more I learn of its rich past, as long time residents share their memories of times long past, some of them looking at my photographs, recognizing a particular structure their own lives had crossed, regaling me with tidbits of an exciting history involving actors, actresses, members of the mob, and wealthy families whose lives read like some fairytale almost impossible to believe. A part of me believes some of this rich cultural history should be preserved, some of the past saved, cared for, kept safe so that those old stories, our shared history can be shared with future generations.

Seems others share that belief, have their own dreams/visions of saving and preserving a small part of this rich heritage through the creation of a Bungalow Museum...a place in Mountaindale where a small handful of Bungalows could be resurrected, saved from the ravages of the passing seasons, restored to their past grandeur, once the repairs made, furniture placed, they would be open to the public, citizens able to take a tour of a space meant to share the memories that we now are slowly losing as those who spent their summers in Bungalow Colonies become fewer in number, their stories lost forever with the passing of the years.

A simple enough task one would assume...drive down almost any rural road in our county, and you can see the derelict buildings, most far to gone to save, but others almost begging, "Take me, let my story be shared".

Problems is, such a noble project as a Bungalow Museum is not as simple as one would think. Finding potential candidate buildings is easy enough, but securing them, moving them, resurrecting their simple beauty a horse of another color. Those slowly decaying buildings have a story to tell, a collective history worthy of saving...but they also hold very special memories for the people and families who own(ed) them, I am almost certain a certain comfort found in driving by and seeing the structures (however precarious) still standing as testament to what once was. A crossroads where old memories and new dreams meet, perhaps finding a way to travel down and identical road into the future, or perhaps not.

In my own life, I have used similar old buildings, falling down barns as identifying structures when giving directions to the 40 acre farm I used to own in the woods of South Eastern Ohio. Go down the road about three miles, and when you see the old red barn too right. Head down the road another half a mile and make a left at the yellow farm house with the green shutters. There is a comfort a shared sense of community found in these seemingly worthless old structures...they are a part of the whole, something folds both look to and identify with. This reality, old memories give these places a intangible value, something one cannot put a price too until after they are gone, reclaimed back into the ground from which they sprung.

Enter the Catskills Bungalow Heritage Committee who has spent over a year now working towards the dream of having a Bungalow Museum here in Mountaindale, NY. Their goal is pretty simple...find, locate, move a number of old Bungalows into Mountaindale across from our new train station, restore them, and then get state certification as a bonifide registered Museum. They have a commitment for the site of this vision, and have been in discussions with various owners of some of the old Bungalow Colonies in our area. What they have no so far been able to secure, is the donation of any structures, various snags always cropping up at the last moment as they try to move this project along. Perhaps some of our readers might be able to help, so I am listing below some of the needs of this committee in the hopes people will step forward and get involved.

1. Letters of support-There is much to be said for the knowledge that a community supports any given project, especially one of this magnitude...not every town or hamlet has their own museum. Letters supporting this project from our citizens, and ELECTED OFFICIALS would be very helpful.

2. A critical mass of 4-7 Bungalows is envisioned to make this project, the museum a viable as well as substantial reality. Maybe you know someone, or perhaps you are someone that owns some of these relics of yesteryear, would consider making a donation of the structure to the committee?

*Sure it would be possible to have the structure appraised, and see that you were given a tax credit for the donation.

3. In kind donations of goods and services that will needed once restoration work begins on this structures.

If you have additional questions, or would like to become involved in this project, please contact:

Raymon Elozua
raymon@elozua.com

Catskills Bungalow Heritage Committee (CBHC)
PO Box 129
Mountaindale, NY 12763-0129

Kraut Disco Comes To Mountaindale, Courtesy of German Band "Pollyester "

It's a pleasant, sunny day here in Mountaindale, I was doing some work in the office when Ken Schmitt comes up to me and says, "There's a band doing some video work over in the old school house. Want to go over to get a few pictures? Do a little article for the blog?"

"Sure, be happy to, be nice to get outside for a bit, breathe some fresh air."

A few hours later, I bid a fond farewell to the members of the band, smiled to myself as again I marveled at our quiet little hamlet and its ability to bring the most interesting stories and people into our community. Seriously, who would think going over to an old school house to take a few pictures would spiral into a tale worthy of Robert Jordan as I found myself exposed to, "The Church of The Little Green Men," a new kind of music niche known as "Kraut Disco," and a band, "Pollyester," who had trav-eled clear across the world from Munich, Germany to visit our small community, record some music at the local recording studio of Josh Druckman, shoot part of a music video in our long ago abandoned school.

In speaking with the members of the band (Polly, hence Pollyester, Manu and Beni...one member of the band [Quentin, who was not there] and their video producer Tobias) my first question after formal introductions were made was, "What kind of music do you play?"

Manu spoke, offering up, Kraut Rock, Beni chiming in that more specifically they filled a niche known as Kraut Disco. I'm old school, preferring Vanilla Fudge, Grandfunk Railroad, The Beatles, Uriah Heep from back in the day, or more specially, back in my time, my youth when I would head over to the Woolworth Five & Dime to purchase the latest LP or Vinyls as they were known...God, has it really been that long ago, am I seriously that OLD?...Yes to both of those rhetorical questions. So, once home, had to run to Google to do a search on "Kraut Disco".

I knew "Kraut Disco" was a very specific NICHE MARKET when my Google search turned up NO WIKI PAGE (thinking "Pollyester" should start one) on this style of music. I did though find a few Facebook Pages, and a visit to the band's own web page gave me a window into their music. If you are thinking John Travolta, and "Saturday Night Fever" nothing could be further from the truth...Kraut Disco (Rock) seems far more raw, primal in it's beats and rhythms, exploring, experimental, the music drawing you in, evoking other worldly feelings, ones that make you want to move...a native dancing around a fire as errant sparks find their way into the heavens. At other times, the beat reminds one of dance clubs, or perhaps Vegas Show Girls about to perform, stylized, organized...almost like a religion.

Which perhaps is how the conversation got around to organized religion, and the current project that had brought them all this way, "Pollyester Parking Lot 2" being prepared for an installation in Munich Germany, and "The Church of the Little Green Men". Speaking with members of the band, but more specifically their soulful singer, Polly, you get the sense of spirits searching, exploring, reaching beyond society's precepts, concepts and barriers as they each, individually and collectively, look to define, understand and shape their spiritual journey on this plane, and on the ones to come as their souls reach their destiny, traveling through the heavens and the cosmos beyond. Art imitating life and vice versa, their music like their personal quest...experimental, exploring in scope as they seek out, define the who of themselves.

Polly's spirit sparkled when talking about their new album, "Earthly Powers" which suggests heavenly powers do exist. She spoke eloquently about organized religion, about the critical comments and debates on church, all it's various and unique religions that make up the whole, suggested that the most important question we must ask ourselves is, "Do we need the Church?"

That, though a societal question of sorts, is a very personal question. Polly's eyes showed both mischief and wonder as she contemplated, and then as if sharing an epiphany stumbled upon in the making of the bands latest album expounded upon personal choice and interpretation. She was talking about "Pollyester's" music, while at the same time speaking of something much more grand. We have both right and responsibility to explore, define the limitations which will define our own spiritual paths in this life. Will we allow the gravity of this world to define, limit who we are, constrain our growth in the spirit, or instead will we unshackle our souls, let the who of ourselves soar into the cosmos to commune with the stars in the heavens above? A societal question, but a very personal one as well.

Enter the "Church of the Little Green Men" the bands desire to see such a church breathed into life in their native Germany. The church is an interesting place, performance art, one man's dream, a place where kindred souls can all commune in one place...in short, in the eyes of many, a church, a place of disorganized organized religion where one is free to define just what it all means for themselves free of the constructs found in most houses of worship. I am told such a church simply could not exist in Germany, while thinking, "The Spirit is found anywhere that two or three are gathered together in his name" musing to myself...this band, it's five members (including the one I did not meet) have already found and created their own "Church of the Little Green Men" in Munich Germany" as they commune one with the other making music...they just have not yet manifested that church into a structural building, but this writer is sure that day is coming.

Would You Support an Organic Bread Bakery In Mountaindale?

We here at the Mountaindale News are doing some market research this afternoon on BREAD. Hot, warm, delicious homemade bread that could be made right here in our little hamlet of Moutaindale, NY. Obviously, we are very excited about this possibility and are hoping our readers will be as well.

Ken and Barb Schmitt of Diversified Realty have been contacted by a very talented professional chef who is interested in possibly establishing an artisan bakery in Mountaindale at the location of our former pizzeria. If everything comes together, and they are just in the very early talking stages, do you think you as a resident of our small hamlet see yourself frequenting a specialty bakeshop in town? Would you be a regular customer of such a shop, or do you see yourself, your family using it more for special occasion breads and baked goods? Would knowing the breads are made of both organic and locally grown ingredients make you more likely to support such a business endeavor for our community?

All of this chef's breads are naturally made with no chemicals or additives in them. She makes her own yeast and uses organic ingredients. Whenever possible, she also uses locally grown flour, honey and eggs. Pictured above is a sample of the type of bread she would be producing in our neighborhood. Do you think you might visit? Would you tell friends and how far do you think they might travel if it were fresh, delicious & fairly priced? Monticello, Ellenville, Liberty...please let us know your thoughts as we investigate this wonderful opportunity for our small hamlet here in the Catskills.

*Side Note-this resident would both love and support such a bakery, and I would be the first to spread the news of its opening to all the seasonal campers I know up at Skyway. I can see many of them more than willing to drive into Mountaindale from camp for some fabulous homemade breads and baked goods.

May 22 Radiant Yoga Essential Oils Seminar HUGE SUCCESS

Last Sunday May 22, Radiant Yoga played host to Nandini Weitzman, a NY State licensed Clinical Nutritionist and Alternative Health Practitioner as she gave participants in her workshop some hands on experience in NAT (Neuro-Auricular Traning with Therapeutic Essential Oils). She shared the simple and safe techniques used for deep relaxation that many alternative medicine practitioners are using for panic, anxiety, sleep disorders. depression, inflammation, and even ADD/ADHD.

The workshop began with an information session, during which Nandini explained the techniques; identified the five essential oils; as well as the process of applying them with light pressure along the occipital (cranial) ridge, neck and shoulders to safely affect brain-related nerves deeply to positively impact digestive organs, lungs, heart, eyes, ears, nose and the endocrine system. The talk was both extensive, and informative, and the end of class handouts to take home were very welcome by all in attendance. Once this section of the seminar was over, she gave the class a demonstration of the oils and techniques and answered numerous questions from the audience.

At the conclusion of this part of the seminar, the participants were paired up in groups, with EVERYONE actually getting to both give and receive a Therapeutic Essential Oils treatment. This hands on exchange of treatments allowed the students to learn the techniques, experience the benefits, while at the same time reinforcing the afternoons lessons through actual hands on practice of what they had been taught.

If your group is interested in arranging a seminar you can contact Nandini directly via her email which is nandiniyes@hotmail.com or give her a ring at (845) 434-2408.

Janet at Radiant Yoga here in Mountaindale New York is to be commended for once again bringing a wonderful holistic opportunity to our community of Mountaindale and its surrounding area. If you would like to know more about her Yoga Classes, and other seminars, or are interested in having her design a special class for your group or organization, sure she would love to hear from you.

MyRadiant Yoga
63 Main Street, CR55
Mountaindale, NY 12763
(845) 866-7822

Girl Scouts Raising Funds For Quake Damaged Japan

In March of this year, an 8.9 on the Richter Scale Earthquake struck Japan, devastating the Island Community, the resulting Tsunami sweeping thousands out to sea, and crippling the TEPCO Nuclear facility, creating a nuclear accident that we now know is worse than Chernobyl. The tragic events have for the most part faded from our evening news here in America, but our friends in Japan are not out of mind, and we know they still need our help as they go about the long arduous task of rebuilding from not one, but three disasters of almost biblical proportions.

Some of the Girl Scouts here in Sullivan County, New York recently held a fund raising event to help their sisters in Japan. The night of fund raising involved girls from Community 532, which includes the Towns of Fallsburg, Mamakating & Thompson. Troops 401, 580, 604, 676 and 738 participated in the evening's events which included using paper in the fine art or Origami, as Origami Guru, Aaron Schmitt, lent help and instruction as the Girl Scouts created Cranes (which are perceived as a symbol of Peace and Good Fortune in Japan) and other creations with their new found skills.

As a national organization, the Girl Scouts were/are devastated by the catastrophe Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan - their collective hearts deeply concerned about their sisters there, the Girl Scouts of Japan who have been touched by these tragic events.

For decades, the USA Girl Scouts Overseas has served American military and civilian families in Japan for many years, and has close ties with Girl Scouts of Japan. In fact, many Girl Scouts in Japan are sister troops of troops here in America. After receiving many calls from Girl Scouts around the country asking how to help Japan, the National Girl Scout leadership was/is happy to report that the policy prohibiting Girl Scouts from raising money for other organizations has been temporarily suspended. This allowed our Sullivan County New York troops to make this evening of fund raising for Japan possible.
From Girl Scout Memo: Girl Scouts of Japan relief efforts

To contribute to earthquake and tsunami relief efforts, you can make an online donation to the Girl Scouts of Japan Relief Efforts until May 31, 2011. At times like these, Girl Scouts throughout the world come together in sisterhood to help those in need. We have seen our Movement rally in support of the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters over the years, and will continue to do everything we can to help our sister Girls Scouts of Japan in the weeks and months ahead.

Where will the funds go?

We can assure you that 100 percent of all relief funds will go to the national organization, Girl Scouts of Japan to be used for families affected by the earthquake and tsunami. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at globalgirlscouting@girlscouts.org.

Make checks payable to Girl Scouts of the USA:
Girl Scouts of the USA-Fund Development
P.O. Box 5046
New York, NY 10087-5046

Slow Food FEAST to Benefit WJFF Being Held June 4th...TICKETS LIMITED!

WJFF's FOODSTOCK was a monster success with over 700 attendees enjoying the local businesses while helping to raise more than $10,000for WJFF. Everyone had a great time, and got to taste some of the finest foods and wines in the entire Hudson Valley/Catskill region. It's clear that WJFF listeners have a passion for good, local food. That fact makes us believe that the Slow Foods FEAST scheduled will be a HUGE SUCCESS. Fair warning...THIS EVENT HAS VERY LIMITED SEATING, so get your tickets ASAP!

On Saturday June 4th at 7pm, WJFF will host its first ever FARM TO TABLEDINNER at The Hills Country Inn in Callicoon Center, NY. This willbe a four-course meal, created by a local chef using ingredients grownand produced right here in our listening area. The farmers and foodproducers have agreed to donate their products, and the chef and herstaff are donating their time for this fundraising dinner. Ticketsare $60 each and will benefit WJFF Radio.

There are a maximum of 40 tickets available for this dinner, so it's important to call and reserve them ahead of time: (845) 482-4141. You can learn more on our website, WJFF Radio.

Thank you so much,

Adam Weinreich
Assistant Manager
WJFF Radio Catskill

Participating Slow Foods Merchants

Java Love
Bashakill Vineyard
Eminence Road Farm Winery
Snowdance Farm
Willow Wisp Farm
Calkins Creamery
Sugar Blossom Flowers

Hills Country Inn

FREE Sullivan County Energy Saving Workshop May 24, 2011

Residential Energy Saving Workshop

for Sullivan County

May 24, 2011, 6:00 - 8:00 pm

at Sullivan Cornell Cooperative Extension

64 Ferndale Loomis Rd, Liberty, NY 12764

Come learn about how you can access a free or reduced cost energy audit to help you save up to $700 on your energy bills and make your home safer and more comfortable. Other topics include:

Low-cost - do-it-yourself energy upgrades
NYSERDA programs
Low-interest financing/incentives/rebates
Low-income programs
Renewable Energy - solar/wind

Presentations from:

• Sean Welsh, Consumer Educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension
• Meridith Nierenberg, Coordinator for Mid-Hudson Energy $mart Communities/NYSERDA
• Gordon Smith, BPI Certified Home Performance Contractor, Renewable Energy Solutions
• John Lorino, NYSERDA Eligible Solar Installer, All Around the House

This workshop is free and open to the public. Space is limited so please register in advance. Simply click HERE to register.

For questions, please contact:

Meridith Nierenberg, Mid-Hudson Energy $mart Communities
845-331-2238, meridith.nierenberg@gmail.com

Roscoe Winning Ultimate Fish Town Challenge...Announces Contest For New Voters!

Just in from the Roscoe Blog...in a battle of Fish Town Titans, with Roscoe and Waddington New York battling it out for the time of ULTIMATE FISH TOWN in WFN's challenge, Roscoe has again claim back atop the leader board. They have also launched a contest FOR NEW VOTERS, so thought we would give every one a chance to step up and vote, and get registered for a beautiful reel donated by one of Roscoe's fans!

New Contest on Twitter for NEW ROSCOE VOTERS...Let Us Vote For You

The folks in Roscoe realize that voting four times a day is something a lot of busy people find almost impossible to do...even harder when the Ultimate Fish Town contest clock resets at midnight and six AM. We also realize we need more voters if we are going to win WFN's "Ultimate Fish Town" Challenge...giving credit where credit is due, Waddington NY (another GREAT fishing spot here in New York) is putting up some serious competition for the title, so we really need all the voting help we can get. So, become a NEW VOTER FOR ROSCOE, and win a beautiful reel just in time for Father's Day!

New Twitter Voter's Win a Orvis ACCESS Mid-Arbor III Reel, priced at $150 By Letting Us Vote For You!

The rules are simple...

1. Be a new voter for Roscoe.

2. Go to WFN's Ultimate Fish Town Challenge, and vote for Roscoe (CLICK HERE TO VOTE)

3. After voting for your first time, go to your email, and open the email sent from WFN (World Fishing Network), and click on the link provided to VERIFY YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS...this is VERY IMPORTANT!

4. Send us an email at roscoeflyfishing@yahoo.com with the name and email you are authorizing us to proxy vote on your behalf. We will vote said account (which will tell us you have verified your email) and you are all done...we will do the rest, and you are entered into a contest to win a beautiful Orvis ACCESS Mid-Arbor III Reel!

THAT's IT! One lucky winner will be chosen AT RANDOM from the emails we receive on June 2nd (two days after WFN Ultimate Fish Town voting closes)...winner will be contacted via email to make arrangements for delivery of this beautiful reel.

The Reel description!

The new Access Mid-Arbor Reel takes the mid-arbor concept to a new level of performance and does it with 20% less weight than the previous design, offering the angler the benefits of fast retrieve, less coiling, with a positive click drag adjustment.

Posted by Fly Fishing in Roscoe at

Open Letter To President Obama-DOE's Committee To Make Hydraulic Fracturing Safe Should be Disbanded, and A Independent Committee With Citizen Stakeholder Representation Put In Its Place

Dear President Obama:

The DOE has recently formed a committee whose stated purpose is too make Hydraulic Fracturing safer, its unstated purpose seems to be a feeble attempt to placate members of the public who are up in arms over a industrial technology that is not fully understood, nor properly investigated and approved through scientific study. Secretary Steven Chu invited closer scrutiny of the legitimacy of this committee with three early signals that telegraphed the intent of the committee...to rewrap hydraulic fracturing in a way that makes it appear safe when in reality it is not.

1.  The time frame given to the committee to complete its work, and craft their recommendations...three months, with another three months to finalized their recommendations for a industry that intends to extract Natural Gas using Hydraulic Fracturing from over 350,000 square miles of our lands...most of private lands, or protected state and federal parks.

2.  Naming as Committee Chair one Mr. Deutch-director of Cheniere Energy, which operates a major liquefied natural gas terminal in Louisiana.  Could you place a more biased person in charge of this committee...someone who has a vested interest in seeing the expansion of Natural Gas extraction here in the United States.

3.  Look at Texas and its Barnett Shale play, or Pennsylvania and New York with our own Marcellus play. Look at the numerous citizen stakeholder groups such as CCSE (Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy) who are working diligently to have our voices heard on this important issue to our communities...yet, Steven Chu and the DOE in formation of this committee CHOSE not to give us a voice in the process.  One has to wonder what it is that the DOE and the White House want to hide from us?  The biased and pre-determined direction of the committee, or perhaps instead the committee will see documents that show hydraulic fracturing to be even more dangerous than we as citizens are currently being led to believe?

These three glaring facts as relates to the committee should be more than enough for you Mr. President to disband this DOE controlled committee, and instead form a Blue Ribbon Hydraulic Fracturing Committee to study the issue, give them ADEQUATE TIME to do their jobs, and summit their report...think 911 Commission.  However, there is much more, and even a cursory investigation of the facts shows the DOE is vested in the Natural Gas industry moving forward at all costs.  They show disdain for public health and protection of the environment, but instead are out touting proudly their involvement in the industry, pretty well taking credit for Modern Day Hydraulic Fracturing...this claim can be verified on their own website, looking at their own chest beating and credit taking.   Skipping over their horrible 1969 Atomic Fracturing experiment, we instead visit a page posted this year wherein they spell out their involvements in moving the Natural Gas industry to where it is today. (Link)

DOE's Early Investment in Shale Gas Technology Producing Results Today

Washington, D.C. — A $92 million research investment in the 1970s by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is today being credited with technological contributions that have stimulated development of domestic natural gas from shales. The result: more U.S. jobs, increased energy security, and higher revenues for states and the Federal Government.

More than 30 years ago, fears of dwindling domestic natural gas supplies pushed researchers to examine alternative sources of natural gas such as Devonian shales, coals, and low permeability or "tight" sands. Recognizing the need for research and development to quantify these unconventional reservoirs and to develop ways to produce them, DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy invested in Devonian shale research from 1977 through 1992, matching technology to complex geology for various geologic settings.

Through programs focused on Eastern gas shales, Western gas sands, and methane from coalbeds, DOE developed and stimulated the deployment of advanced exploration and production technologies. These technologies recovered new gas supplies from unconventional gas resources by increasing per-well gas-recovery efficiencies and lowering unit development costs. 

DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) employed a detailed resource characterization and technology development approach that geologically partitioned each natural gas resource and matched technology to geology to chart a path for resource development. More than 25,000 feet of oriented core and well log data from 35　cored shale wells provided the basic core and geologic data used to prepare the first publicly available estimates of technically recoverable gas for the Huron shales in West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky.

In 1986, DOE collaborated with industry to achieve a significant milestone: the first air-drilled 2,000-foot-long horizontal Devonian shale well in the Appalachian Basin. This also marked the first recovery of core from a horizontal air-drilled shale well and the first successful use of external casing packers in an air-filled wellbore. Through 1992, DOE also worked with industry to complete three additional 2,000-foot-long horizontal wells containing multiple hydraulically fractured zones and to develop more efficient downhole tools, such as electromagnetic measurement-while-drilling and directional air hammer technology, both of which are currently used by the oilfield service industry.

Another example of early DOE leadership in the development of technologies applicable to shale gas development is fracture mapping—techniques for using seismic responses to identify the orientation and extent of hydraulically created fractures. Today, a number of companies successfully map hydraulic fractures, including many in the major shale gas plays. \

In a recent paper entitled Thirty Years of Gas Shale Fracturing: What Have We Learned?, DOE research is recognized for enabling several technology breakthroughs in shale gas development. Presented at the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ 2010 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, the paper reviews more than 350 technical papers and presentations on shale-specific well completions, fracturing, and operations. The paper’s author, George E. King, Global Technology Consultant for Apache Corporation, credits DOE for its early leadership in the development of several key technologies that are driving the current growth in shale gas production, including reservoir characterization, horizontal drilling, and multi-stage fracturing and slick water fracturing.

DOE’s leadership in shale gas development is receiving similar recognition from others. According to Dr. Terry Engelder, Professor of Geosciences at Penn State University, DOE’s Eastern Gas Shales Research Program "helped expand the limits of gas shale production and increased understanding of production mechanisms . . . It is one of the great examples of value-added work led by the DOE." 

This article from the DOE website leaves no doubt...the Department of Energy is the MOTHER of modern day Hydraulic Fracturing, today's natural gas extraction means of choice THEIR BABY.  It is impossible for the DOE to be impartial in this debate, impossible for any committee on Hydraulic Fracturing created by them to be unbiased....they  are going to protect their baby that they have nurtured and moved forward for a period of over 30 years.  The DOE WANTS HYDRAULIC FRACTURING to move forward AT ALL COSTS, and the committee in its current make up has but one job...placate the public, trot out some false assurances, and put the petal to the metal when it comes to letting Hydraulic Fracturing move forward at full bore.

It is imperative that (in your words) we get this RIGHT when it comes to Hydraulic Fracturing, that the proper SCIENTIFIC (emphasis added) investigation of the processes involved in Hydraulic Fracturing gives us the assurances we need.  Let science lead the way forward, let science tell us that our Safe Drinking Water Supplies will not be compromised, let science tell us that our health will not be compromised by the use of carcinogenic chemicals deployed in the process.  Let a committee be formed that A) has one third of its make up average stakeholder citizens, B) one third from the science community (half from industry, half from the opposing spectrum) and C) that last third made up with equal parts government officials and industry types.  The number of members of this committee should be 18.

So Mr. President, I implore you...end the dog and pony show, disband the DOE's biased and prejudice committee that has been stacked in favor of the Natural Gas Industry.  Declare a Presidential Moratorium on the practice of Fracking for a period of at least 24 months, disband Steven Shu's biased committee and put together the Blue Ribbon Commission on Hydraulic Fracturing.

Morningside Park-Fallsburg-Summer Employment Opportunity

A little bird whispered in my ear today, and it seems that the Town of Fallsburg is looking for some seasonal help at the Morningside Park. If you have a valid drivers license, are over 18, and looking for seasonal employment, this is a GREAT OPPORTUNITY. For more information, or to set up an interview, please contact:

Henry or Missy at (845)434-4877 Ext 2...just tell them you saw it on Mountaindale NY News.

Neighbor Helping Neighbor...Voting Starts Tuesday in WFN "Ultimate Fish Town Finals" Roscoe Needs Your Votes!

OK....first, congratulations to Roscoe, one of our neighbors here in Sullivan County for making it into the finals of WFN's "Ultimate Fish Town" challenge...but, they are going to need OUR HELP to over come Waddington, NY to take the title, and the $25,000 Community investment prize that comes with it. From the Roscoe Blog....

48 Hours Till "Ultimate Fish Town" Finals Begin...We Are So Excited

It's Mother's Day, so too all the Mother's out there, a Happy Mother's Day to each and every one of you. May your day be filled with both love and family.

In other news, we are officially under two full days until the Ultimate Fish Town Challenge Finals, and we here in Roscoe are so excited to be a part of it...hope everyone is getting ready for the voting, as sure we are going to get every single vote we can get, as Waddington, New York right now would have to be the odds on favorite having runaway with the the initial voting...Roscoe wishes the best of luck to ALL THE COMPETITORS, and know all of us are already winners just having participated. A special thanks to WFN for sponsoring such a great challenge. Remember, vote EARLY, and vote OFTEN. We will be posting some VOTING INSTRUCTIONS tomorrow, so hope everyone here in Mountaindale and the surrounding area will get involved.

Use Gas Industry's Wealth AGAINST THEM...GET THEIR FREEBIES!

The Natural Gas industry, even our own government are spending hundreds of millions of dollars on what could be described as America's GREATEST PROPAGANDA CAMPAIGN as they try to shape the general public's perceptions and expectations when it comes to Natural Gas, Hydraulic Fracturing, and the DAMAGE that will result from its wide spread use.  Well, it is time we in the Anti-Fracking camp start SPENDING SOME OF THEIR MONEY!  If you start looking around, you will find out that many Pro_Natural Gas Groups (funded by A) the natural gas industry and/or B) our TAXES) are willing to send you out a lot of FREE STUFF....now I know we do not really WANT THIS STUFF....but, every time one of us receives a freebie from their side, we are DEPLETING THEIR WAR CHEST in this fight.

As example, yesterday I received a nice hand written note with not one, but two bumper stickers from Energize WV.  Letterhead stationary and envelope...the time to write the note, put everything in the envelope cost them at least a few bucks...not much, but what if we started doing that in the THOUSANDS, and hitting multiple sites to collect their freebies?  Another example...Pro Natural Gas shill American Clean Skies (their whole entire board is made up of Oil Industry board members, and 20 million has been steered their way) is so anxious to get their answer to Gasland out into the hands of the public, they sent me a FREE CD COPY OVER NIGHT DELIVERY!

If you know of industry FREEBIES, leave us a comment with their name!

OMFG...Corbett Cronies THROTTLE FREE SPEAK....Deny Anti Frackers Voice At Committee Hearing

If a picture is worth a thousand words, this damning video is priceless...seems that the Pro-Natural Gas folks inside the Pennsylvania Governor's office will stop at nothing to silence those opposed to Natural Gas Fracking. Sure if I told you that the governor instructed staff to have two sign up sheets...one inside the room for PRO NATURAL GAS FOLKS, and one outside for ANTI FRACKERS (who were not allowed in to sign the other sheet), and told you that they then called up folks from the FIRST LIST ONLY, you would say I was a conspiracy nut...well, watched the video, and you decide. FACE IT FOLKS, WE ARE BEING RAIL ROAD'ED TO HELL ON A FRACK HIGHWAY.

The Frack FUCK Primer...Do Not Let DOE Committee Fool You

DOE trotting out Fracking Committee dog and pony show for public consumption.  Sorry, but do not buy into this supposed IMPORTANT Committee....you do not form a committee of this magnitude, and then give it just three months to review fracking if the outcome of the committee's findings are not already pre-determined. The three articles below will give you a quick PRIMER on FRACKING.

More on Fracking
More Fracking Problems: Surface Blowouts as Gas Wells Likely to Increase
Natural Gas Far Less Green Than Claimed - Fracking Emissions 1000s Times Higher Than Reported
Natural Gas From Fracking Emissions Can Double Those From Coal

Government and Big Business Using Propaganda to BRAINWASH Public on Natural Gas

Thank God for Gasland...it was and is a wake up call, hopefully one that America hears, hopefully one that sees us as private citizens get galvanized behind an issue like we have not done since the protests against the Vietnam War.   Leave no doubt, our lands are under siege, the Natural Gas industry with the help and full backing of our government (local, state and federal) government willing to stoop to any level to frack our lands.  We as citizens are under attack, a full bore Propaganda Campaign targeted at us, telling us how good Natural Gas is for America, how green a fuel it is...BOTH LIES, both claims meant to play on emotions, divide our communities into us and them camp as battle lines are draw, neighbor against neighbor, while the Natural Gas industry does and end around, selling the concept of Natural Gas as a clean green PATRIOTIC fuel to our children, finding insidious means to take their message right to our children in the schools.

I would suggest one do some research, begin looking at the wealth of reports and data out there that show we are being sold out, that the decision to drill for Natural Gas in New York's Marcellus Shale already made, the government merely placating us for now hoping to avoid armed confrontation, troops being used to protect Natural Gas companies like Chesapeake Energy and their access to our lands for the purpose of extracting Natural Gas at all cost...for now, they have time, time to use commercial, pamphlets, and committees filled with Natural Gas Industry insiders that have been charged to write guidelines for drilling...all of these meant to brainwash us into blind acceptance of our fate, brainwash us into believing the lie that Natural Gas is a clean green fossil fuel that is GOOD FOR AMERICA.  

Take a look at this week's announcement from the White House about their new Natural Gas committee...the purpose of the committee is not to study Hydraulic Fracturing, but instead is a committee who's sole purpose is to find ways to EXPEDITE the drilling of our lands, for us to acquiesce to the landman, sign their leases like good Patriotic Americans.  At almost every stump speech now, he hammers on NATURAL GAS and increasing its production as is witnessed by this quote from his appearance in Indiana:

"If we’re serious about meeting our energy challenge we’re going to have to do more than drill.  And that’s why the real solution is clean, homegrown energy.  The real solution is advanced biofuels -- and there’s a lot of good biofuel work being done here in Indiana.  It means that we’ve got to have natural gas vehicles.  We’ve got a lot of natural gas that can be produced here in the United States of America.  It means making our cars and trucks more energy-efficient, because if we use less oil, that reduces demand; that brings the price down; and you will see the impact at the pump.  That’s what’s going to make a difference and that’s why what you’re doing here is so important."

Forget the safety issues, don't worry about (un)Natural Gas companies spoiling the land, and poisoning our drinking water...DRILL BABY DRILL, and President Obama is LEADING THE CHORUS.  With orders from the White House, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced a new committee on Natural Gas, and this committee was/is charged with bringing Natural Gas to the market place AT ALL COSTS...

WASHINGTON — The Obama administration, seeing increased domestic natural gas production as a linchpin in its long-term energy strategy, has named a panel of experts to find ways to make hydraulic fracturing, a fast-growing method of extracting natural gas, safer and cleaner. 

Giving lip service to safer and cleaner, the Obama White House wants Natural Gas, and they wanted it FAST.  As you read up on this new committee, read about its charge, you realize we are being conned...as example, the committee has been given only NINETY DAYS to present a plan to get more natural gas to market in a faster way...in short, DRILL BABY DRILL. As this is going on, those of us living at ground zero here in the Marcellus Shale are being deluged day and night with on-the-air PROPAGANDA as commercial after commercial touts Natural Gas as a Patriotically GREEN energy source...this onslaught times so that our children are FORCED to see, participate in and be brainwashed themselves...imagine an adult, articulate, versed on the issue, opposed to FRACKING having their child come in and say, "Mommy, we should let them drill for Natural Gas on our property, it's a CLEAN ENERGY SOURCE, and America needs the energy."

Before America races headlong into raping our lands in the name of Natural Gas, I have a few questions for the industry, for our politicians, for President Barack Obama.

1.  Is it fair to used Pooling to force property owners to accept drilling using Hydraulic Fracturing under their lands...even when they OWN THEIR MINERAL RIGHTS?

2.  Is it fair to use a drilling method that you know will drive down the property values of those living in these new Gas Drilling Fields?

Will be Imprisoned For Opposing Fracking?

3.  Is it fair to force Hydraulic Fracturing on communities, is it fair to even let the industry use this technology when you know that said technology will negatively impact the drinking water supplies of many of the communities which will be fracked?

4.  In the name of National Energy Security, is it right and moral for the US EPA and other regulatory agencies to let Natural Gas companies use FRACKING CHEMICALS that are known carcinogens that cause cancers, birth defects and other health issues too access this resource?

5.  Just how much collateral damage in despoiled land (including in our state and national parks), in ruined drinking water supplies, in lost lives is acceptable in the name of Natural Gas?  Have we learned NOTHING from the nuclear disaster in Japan?  Have we not learned that you cannot simply assumed the worst case scenario will NEVER HAPPEN?

I ask you America...at what cost Natural Gas?

Fresh FarmtoCity Rondout Organic Veggies and Yoga...What Could Be Better?

Talk about a winning combination! Freshly delivered organic veggies and yoga...a big thanks to Janet over at Radiant Yoga for making this one happen. Imagine being able to pick and choose the fresh locally grown (slow foods) veggies you want for your family from a list, place your order, and then pick them up locally RIGHT HERE IN MOUNTAINDALE! Well, thanks to Janet and the "My Radiant Yoga", and the folks at Rondout Valley Organics (proud member of Farm to City) you can do just that.

Press Release...My Radiant Yoga

To Your Radiant Health

Enjoy a delicious invigorating weekly yoga class AND pick up your special order of freshly harvested, locally grown organic vegetables from Rondout Valley Organics, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Farm. Place your order between 10PM Sunday, and 6PM on Tuesday night, and pick your order up on Thursday...it's that easy to have fresh organic veggies ALL SUMMER LONG.

Delivered weekly to Radiant Yoga
Every Thursday
May - late October 2011

Yoga Students share their testimonials:

"Delicious, beautiful vegetables, strawberries, blueberries, and gorgeous flowers. They have a great variety! And, the most delicious potatoes I've ever eaten! I fell in love with turnips -- they tasted so good!"

Jean Papendrea

"We (my husband and I, visiting grown sons, and guests) usually enjoy a whole season of organic vegetables for $250 and our $50 buying deposit. We get to order what we want online every week from what's harvested on the three farms. If we go away, we aren't obligated to order. If we're having guests, we can order more of something that we really like."

Eileen Conway Whitaker


"I love the convenience of picking up my veggies after my weekly yoga class. It's fun to see what's inside our grocery bags. We also share recipes and ideas!"

Judy Timke

Thursday Radiant Yoga Class Schedule

Gentle Yoga
Noon - 1:30 pm

Align the Spine: Feel Divine
5:30-7 pm

Receive your first yoga class FREE at Radiant Yoga when you register to receive a season of delicious veggies. We look forward to seeing many of you each Thursday between now and the end of the growing season as we enjoy the fresh bounty of the land brought to us thanks to the folks at Rondout...there information below.

Rondout Valley Organics

Welcome to RONDOUT VALLEY ORGANICS! Our CSA program - designed with flexibility to work for you - shares with your family the best local produce and offers an opportunity for you to support organic farming. Please feel free to browse the links here and get to know us.

If you'd like to SHARE in the 2011 SEASON by JOINING RONDOUT VALLEY ORGANICS, or for more information, please send us an email to rustyplough@earthlink.net or call at 845.647.6911. You can also join right here - just click on the APPLICATION FORM link to the left...

Rondout Valley Organics is a collaborative of local farms, all located within the Town of Wawarsing: Farm & Granary, Rusty Plough Farm, and August Farm. You can learn more about each of us on the "Producer Profiles" link.

Join Rondout Valley Organics CSA with an initial investment of $300.00, which includes an annual $50.00 non-refundable membership fee and $250.00 to start your account. You can click on the "Application" link here and sign on directly, then send us your check.

MAKE OUT TO

OLEH MACZAJ
331 DOWE ROAD
ELLENVILLE, NY 12428.

Or you can fill out and mail in one of our brochures, available throughout the area in various businesses. If you'd like us to mail you a brochure, just give us a call at 845-647-6911.

Membership allows you access to a weekly availability list of products from our farms. You choose what you want to order each week. No minimum requirements. Skip a week if you're away. The value of your items is then deducted from your account each week. As your account nears depletion, we welcome you to reinvest through the remaining season.

Choose from the following pickup locations in Ulster and Sullivan Counties:

• Rusty Plough Farm, Ellenville, from Thursday mornings
• Farm & Granary, Rte.209 Wawarsing, from Thursday mornings
• Catskill Native Nursery, Samsonville Rd., Kerhonkson, Fridays 10am - Saturdays 3pm
• Kingston Farmers' Market, Kingston, Saturdays 9-2
• Pleasant Stone Farm Store, Ellenville, Thursdays noon-6pm
• Cragsmoor Library in Cragsmoor, Thursdays noon - 7:30pm
• Radiant Yoga, Main Street in Mountaindale, Thursdays noon-7:00pm

For more information please call us at 845-647-6911.

Mountaindale Odds and Ends

May 5th...first, today would have been my Mom's birthday, "So Happy Birthday Mom".

Being a busy week here in Mountaindale on several fronts. This evening, we have some Girl Scouts coming in to do some Community Service work on one of our gardens. Will have pictures of this later on. Speaking of Girl Scouts, today is pretty much YOUR LAST CHANCE to get Girl Scout cookies until they come back around again next year! So, if you haven't gotten them, or you want a few more boxes to put into the freezer, better make your move...I am thinking I need at least a couple more boxes myself...SO BAD I know!

Last night there was a Spring Workshop run by the folks over at Sullivan Renaissance, and a few great pointers were picked up. For instance, did you know that Apple Cider vinegar in a spray bottle makes a fabulous weed killer...and its ALL NATURAL. Another tip...92 percent rubbing alcohol (again in a spray bottle) is great to take out to the garden with you. Realize you grabbed some poison ivy...spray it with rubbing alcohol! So, great workshop, and of course I enjoyed the cookies.

This year's Renaissance project is taking shape...we have a commitment to get water to the new gardens, so a REALLY BIG THANKS to the town government over in Fallsburg. Plans are moving ahead to do some much needed Pre-Installation site clean up, and our Rails to Trails sign is going to get some repair work done to it. So, very excited to see that moving forward in a big way.

If you have news or events to share, give Barb (434-4747) or Sherwood (693-4513) a call and we will be happy to get a small article up on your news of the moment...you can email photographs or send press releases to news@mountaindaleproject.org

SULLIVAN COUNTY BUSINESSES HELP BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS

Sullivan Renaissance Puts Out List of Businesses Offering Grant Recipients Discounts

As our residents very well know, the folks over at Sullivan Renaissance are truly a God's send, helping numerous small hamlets and towns like our own as we beautify our communities. They have just announced their list of businesses who offer discounts to this years grant recipients (see press release below), and we hope all of you will support these businesses who are supporting us in making Mountaindale the beautiful small town that it is.

Community Volunteers Get Discounts from Local Merchants

[FERNDALE] – Dozens of local businesses are offering financial support to community organizations that received grants as part of the 2011 Sullivan Renaissance program. The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce arranged for merchant discounts – typically from 10% to 20% – on products and services volunteers use to clean up and beautify communities.

This is the eleventh year that businesses have participated in the Sullivan Renaissance Merchant Discount Program.

“We know that beautification efforts result in increased tourism and boost economic development. The Merchant Discount Program is a practical way that local businesses can help themselves while contributing to our economic recovery,” said Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Terri Ward, “Keeping dollars in the county is not only smart and green; you can see the difference that has been made in our communities.”

Ward urges businesses that would still like to join in this year to contact the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce at 845-791-4200 or Sullivan Renaissance at 845-295-2452. Businesses do not need to be Chamber members to help.

All of the projects awarded grants on April 14th have been given a special discount card and a list of participating businesses.

Renaissance community projects will be completed by August 1 and judged between August 4 and 7. The Awards Ceremony will be held the evening of August 8 at Monticello High School.

Sullivan Renaissance is a beautification and community development program principally funded by the Gerry Foundation. Additional funding has been secured by Hon. Maurice D. Hinchey, 22nd Congressional District. Sponsors include Bold Gold Media Group/Thunder 102, Sullivan County Democrat, The River Reporter, Thompson Sanitation and WSUL/WVOS.

For more information about its programs, call Sullivan Renaissance at 845-295-2445 or visit the website at www.sullivanrenaissance.org.

2011 Business Discount Card Participants

ACM PLAYGROUNDS
P O Box 179, Buchanan, NY 10519
Phone: (914)739-9858; Fax: (914)736-0554
5-10% off playground equipment and supplies (depending on merchandise)

ALDEN THAYER COUNTRY GARDENSClaryville, NY 12725
Phone: (845)985-0351
10% off landscape designs, building and installation

BROADWAY HOME
364 East Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-1440
15% off any merchandise in-store or special order

BUTTERFLY BOTANICALS
363 Petticoat Lane, Bloomingburg, NY 12721
Phone: (845)733-7713
10% off all plant & garden materials except sale items and American Beauties

CANDY DESIGNS BY FRAN
P O Box 325, White Lake, NY 12786
Phone: (845)583-7161; Fax: (845)583-4908
20% off gourmet gift trays

CATSKILL HARVEST MARKET
2785 State Route 52, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-3833; Fax: (845)747-4117
20% off plants, garden materials, lumber

CATSKILL NATIVE NURSERY
607 Samsonville Road, Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Phone: 845-626-2758
10% off all stock

CATSKILL PERENNIALS
188 Tonges Road, Callicoon, NY 12723
Phone: (845)482-5971; Fax: (845)482-5971
10% off perennials, trees, shrubs, ornamental grass

CATSKILL OUTDOOR FURNITURE
PO Box 1013, 5077 Route 42, South Fallsburg, NY 12779
Phone: (845)341-7948; Fax: (845)434-7271
20% off outdoor furniture

CATSKILL SHOPPER
P O Box 389, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845) 292-0500; Fax: (845)292-0585
20% off business advertising that is part of Renaissance project

CRYSTAL FALLS FARM, SAND & GRAVEL George & Barbara Dean
521 Myers Road, Neversink, NY 12765
Phone: (845)985-7866; Fax: (845)985-0301; dean6@hvc.rr.com10 – 20% off screened organic enriched top soil and other garden items

COTTAGE LOT
2 Morton Hill Road, Roscoe, NY 12776
Phone: (607)498-4456
20% off all plant material, annuals, perennials, trees & shrubs

DELAWARE VALLEY HOME & GARDEN
30 Viaduct Road, Callicoon, NY 12723
Phone: (845)887-5100; Fax: (845)887-4917
20% off original price – plants & nursery stock

DJM LANDSCAPING
462 Twin Bridge Road, Ferndale, NY 12734
Phone: (845)295-9383; Fax: (845)295-9383
10% general landscaping supplies – stone, mulch, etc

EVERLASTING SPRING GARDEN CENTER
P O Box 213, WSS, NY 12787
Phone: (845)295-0856; Fax: (845)295-0862
20% off perennials and trees

FALLSBURG LUMBER CO., INC.
13 Laurel Avenue, South Fallsburg, NY 12733
Phone: (845)434-6161; Fax: (845)434-6997
20% off in-store items

FOSTERDALE EQUIPMENT CORP.
3137 Route 17B, Cochecton, NY 12726
Phone: (845)932-8611; Fax: (845)932-8825
10% over cost to Renaissance Groups on equipment purchases

FOSTERDALE MOTOR LODGE
1166 County Road, Cochecton, NY 12726
Phone: (845)932-8538; Fax: (845)932-7937
10% off u-haul trucks rental

GREEN DESIGN
PO Box 375
Youngsville, NY 12711
Phone: (845)482-4059 or 3659, Greendesign@pronet.net
20% discount on design consultation, garden design, streetscape, container plants, etc.

GREY’S WOODWORKS
P O Box 420, Grahamsville, NY 12740
Phone: (845)985-7006; Fax: (845)985-7442
10% all gazebos, storage sheds and outdoor furniture
HAMLIN CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.
6135 State Route 55, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-3006; Fax: (845)292-6455
Small machinery, topsoil, stone: discount depending on job (call for quote)

HARNETT DESIGNS WOODWORKING STUDIO
19 Rocky Hill Road/ Show Room 400 Rt. 55; Grahamsville, NY 12740
Phone: (845)985-2104, www.Harnettdesigns.com
E-mail: brian@harnettdesigns.com
10%-20% off carvings in stock, sculptures custom to projects, custom signage

HILLSIDE GREENHOUSE
1 Kaempher Lane, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-5770; Fax: (845)292-9218
20% off flowering plants & shrubs

JB MAK BUILDING & RENTAL CENTER, INC.
4 Bon Jovi Lane, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-6338; Fax: (845)292-6352
10% on equipment rental & building materials

KOHLER LUMBER
P O Box 637, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
Phone: (845)482-5290; Fax: (845)482-4720
10% off Renaissance related materials

KORWANS TREE FARM
148 Eggler Road, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
Phone: (845)482-3345; Fax: (845)482-3345
15% plants, trees, shrubs, deer fencing

KRISTT COMPANY
P O Box 548, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-6639; Fax: (845)794-1233
20 % off office & art supplies

LIBERTY AGWAY FARM HOME & GARDEN11 Bon Jovi Lane, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-7220; Fax: (845)292-1257
Up to 20% off original price soils, mulches, plant & tools

MAKOVIC HOMES
411 Route 17B, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)796-4663; Fax: (845)796-4665
25% off tractor or mini excavator rental with operator; $5,000 off modular home; $2,000 off manufactured

MANZA FARMS
730 Route 211, Montgomery, NY 12549
Phone: (845)699-1034; Fax: (845)692-4109
20% off trees, shrubs & perennials
MONTICELLO ADVERTISING SPECIALTIES
28 Floral Drive, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-5311; Fax: (845)794-5412
10% off imprinted items – caps, pens, calendars, etc

MONTICELLO FARM HOME & GARDEN
420 Route 17B, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-6457; Fax: (845)794-6459
10% off regular prices for lawn, plant or garden items

MONTICELLO GREENHOUSES, INC. 217 East Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-4220; Fax: (845)794-4221
10% off bedding plants

MONTICELLO PLATE GLASS
4 Thornton Avenue, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-4477; Fax: (845)794-4696
15% off in-stock, glass & screening

MOUNTAIN BEAR CRAFTS
8 Pearl Street, Livingston Manor, NY
Phone: (845)439-8050; Fax: (212)645-6649
15% off embroidered hats, t-shirts, aprons, tote bags

MOUNTAIN PINE NURSERY
17 Warwick Turnpike, Warwick, NY 10990
Phone: (845)986-7079
20% off perennial plant material, shrubs

MY SECRET GARDENER
17 Quait Road, Mountaindale, NY
Phone: (845)866-7822; Fax: (845)436-1277
50% off consultation

PARTYMASTER194 Main Street, Hurleyville, NY 12747
Phone: (845)434-6210; Fax: (845)434-6210
10-20% off fundraising events – depending on date

POLEY PAVING/POLEY SAND & GRAVELP O Box 916, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845) 292-4705; Fax: (845)292-5015
10% off sand, gravel, topsoil, trucking on our materials

RADIANT YOGA OF MOUNTAINDALE
63 Main Street, CR-55, Mountaindale, NY 12763
Phone: (845)866-7822, www.radiantyoga.com
First class free for Renaissance volunteers; 30% discount summer gardener’s series of studio classes

ROCK HILL SERVICE CENTER
PO Box 440, 47 Katrina Falls Road, Rock Hill, NY 12775
Phone: (845)794-5949; Fax: (845)796-1032
10% off truck rental

ROCK HILL TRADING POST
Box 310, Rock Hill, NY 12775
Phone: (845)796-3060; Fax: (845)796-3054
Up to 10% off gardening supplies, paint supplies, hardware

RUBY FLECKS CREATIVE CONSULTING
1109 Wurtsboro Mountain Road, Wurtsboro, NY 12790
Cell phone: (845)866-7587; Fax: (845)888-2618
½ price (50% off)

SAFER LANDINGS
948 Route 213, Kingston, NY 12401
Phone: (845)338-5798; Fax: (845)229-5064
15% playground equipment & supplies

SCHMIDTS WHOLESALE
PO Box 5100, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-5900; Fax: (845)794-6142
10% any item in stock

SERRANO II INC.
365 Route 211 East, Middletown, NY 10940
Phone: (845)692-2226; Fax: (845)344-5761
10% off on all services – roof replacements & repairs

SHEELEY OIL & EXCAVATING, INC.
47 Kiothe Drive, Grahamsville, NY 12740
Phone: (845)985-2231; Fax: (845)985-0186
20% off materials sold by company (sand, topsoil, gravel, crusher run, etc)

STEINGART ASSOCIATESP O Box 460, South Fallsburg, NY 12779
Phone: (845)434-4321; Fax: (845)436-8609
Up to 20% off printed materials

STEPHENSON’S NURSERY
328 Route 52 East, Liberty, NY 12754
Phone: (845)292-3358; Fax: (845)292-3358
20% off nursery stock, trees & shrubs; 10% off flowering annuals; no discount on sale items

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT
Main Street, Callicoon, NY 12723
Phone: (845)887-5200; Fax: (845)887-5386
20% display advertising & fundraiser ads

SULLIVAN COUNTY DRAMATIC WORKSHOP
Rivoli Theater, Route 42, Fallsburg, NY 12733
Phone: (845)985-2976
50% of proceeds for community Renaissance fundraising events

SULLIVAN FIRST RECYCLING & REFUSE
482 Hasbrouck Drive, Woodbourne, NY 12788
Phone: (845)436-6772; Fax: (845)436-1481
Free container and if dumping fee is not covered already a discounted rate of $95 is offered

SUPERIOR BUILDING SUPPLY
7 Mutton Hill Road, Neversink, NY 12765
Phone: (845)985-7693; Fax: (845)985-7697
5% off building materials, 10% off hardware & paint

THE COUNTRY BUMKIN ANTIQUES 1040 Route 17B, Mongaup Valley, NY 12762
Phone: (845)583-7937; Fax: (845)583-3046
15% off all merchandise in store with “JV” inventory code

THE CUTTING GARDEN
4055 State Route 52, Youngsville, NY 12791
Phone: (845)482-3333; Fax: (845)295-0207
10% off seeds, plants, small tools

THE GENERAL’S GARDEN
177 Sanfordville Road, Warwick, NY 10990
15% off all plant purchases – 10% off other purchases

THE NUGGET BAR & GRILL
371 East Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)794-4146
10% off food in support of Renaissance projects

THE RIVER REPORTER
P O Box 150, Narrowsburg, NY 12764
Phone: (845)252-7414; Fax: (845)252-3298
25% off advertising space

THOMPSON SANITATION
P O Box 494, Rock Hill, NY 12775
Phone: (845)796-1032; Fax: (845)796-1033
10% roll off containers/clean-ups

TQM ORCHIDS127 Cheechunk Road, Goshen, NY 10924
Phone: (845)313-4246
20% off orchid plants & orchid cut flowers

TRILOGY PERENNIALS
116 Brook Road, Cochecton, NY 12726
Phone: (845)932-8613
10% off annuals & bedding plants

TRI-STATE MECHANICAL PLUMBING & HEATING
Rock Hill, NY 12775
Phone: (845)794-5848
20% labor discount – plumbing & heating services

VITA’S FARM & GARDEN
Road 1 – Box 578, Jeffersonville, NY 12748
Phone: (845)482-5776
10% off bedding plants, all flowers & gardening products

WASTE PRO
PO Box 1086, Rock Hill, NY 12775
Phone: (845)794-0404; Fax: (845)796-1032
$50 off transportation and rental fees for dumpsters of 10, 20 or 30 cubic yards (tipping fees not included)

WINDOWS ON BROADWAY
363 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701
Phone: (845)791-1400; Fax: (845)791-1401
10% off all installed products – windows/doors/roofing/siding

WURTSBORO ELECTRIC SERVICE
PO Box 450, Wurtsboro, NY 12790
Phone (845)888-8000
18% off all products and services