As our summer community packs up and leaves, and schools begin to open, Sullivan County sadly is in the worst financial shape we have ever been in. There is still no sign of any major economic development.

Our never ending soap opera for casino gaming [...]]]> Where did the summer go? Who can believe it is Labor Day weekend?

As our summer community packs up and leaves, and schools begin to open, Sullivan County sadly is in the worst financial shape we have ever been in. There is still no sign of any major economic development.

Our never ending soap opera for casino gaming is ongoing, and something as simple as a slaughter house is even taking years for us to get.

The construction of a new County Jail is still not resolved, and garbage is still a big issue.

Medicaid and social service programs are bleeding us to death, while crime is still on a dramatic upswing.

Hydrofracking is the new word on the street.

Our elected officials will indeed have a heavy plate ahead of them this fall.

The political season is already in full gear with the race for County Court Judge and State Senate taking center stage. Statewide races for Governor, Attorney General, and United States Senate will likely become heated.

Sullivan County voters will be using new mandated voting machines this fall. Hopefully everything will run smoothly.

One of the most talked about races is obviously the battle for State Senate.

Legislator David Sager after a well fought fight to get on the Democratic line, will be challenging 12 year Republican incumbent John Bonacic who is also endorsed by the Independence and Conservative Parties.

Sager will most likely have a great deal of work ahead of him convincing voters why they should elect him over the popular Bonacic.

Bonacic is taking nothing for granted with the anti incumbency sentiment plaguing our Nation and what is expected to be a Democratic year statewide. He is prepared to use his massive war chest of close to $800,000, and utilize Senate constituent taxpayer paid mailings to get his message out.

Bonacic has been a huge supporter of casino gaming, and recently obtained funding for CRMC. Sager is running as an Albany outsider pledging to reform government.

Sager had hoped to utilize his strong anti-hydrofracking stand to take votes away from Bonacic who appeared to be pro drilling, but he has since taken a similar position to that of Sager’s.

The race for County Court Judge will certainly be exciting as Burton Ledina is being forced to retire. Former Town of Bethel Judge Cindy Barber, who ran against Ledina three years ago and received an impressive 7,000 votes, will be challenged by lawyer Michael McGuire.

A Conservative and Independence Primary will be held on September 14 to see if who gets those nominations.

During the next several weeks, we can once again look forward to another great Harvest Festival at Bethel Woods.
However, before we start thinking about the weeks ahead, don’t forget the meaning of Labor Day. Let us all pay tribute to the social and economic achievements of the American Worker. Let’s send accolades to the contributions labor has made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our great nation.
Have a happy and safe Labor Day weekend.

The Partnership’s recent position on gas drilling has clearly been taken out of context. All they are saying is that they support gas drilling as a means [...]]]> The Partnership for Economic Development has been under heat because they are doing what they are supposed to do and that is to promote and bring business to Sullivan County.

The Partnership’s recent position on gas drilling has clearly been taken out of context. All they are saying is that they support gas drilling as a means of economic development as long as it is safe. There is nothing wrong with that stand.

Personally, I think hydrofracking would be detrimental, and I am grateful to the Sullivan County Legislature and people like David Sager leading the fight for placing a ban on gas drilling. I wish property owners with hopes of striking it rich would do the same.

Without a doubt before any drilling begins, we must be certain beyond a reason of doubt that our environment and infrastructure will not be damaged. Drilling for gas or hydrofracking as they call it as currently proposed would be detrimental to Sullivan County.

Despite what gas companies might say, the research and evidence is there that hydofracking contaminates water. Documented incidents from Colorado to Texas to West Virginia to nearby Pennsylvania make clear that the dangers and fears of hydofracking are very real.

But all this does not mean the Partnership cannot or should not look into the positive aspects of gas drilling if they choose to do so with the premise that safety comes first.

Critics of the Partnership are attempting to discredit the group because member’s financial concerns might benefit from gas drilling. We forget that is why the Partnership is there in the first place; to help businesses grow, and yes sometimes those very businesses can be those of board members.

It is very easy to divert from the truth and attempt to discredit people. Monticello Mayor Gordon Jenkins and his associates are doing just that with allegations that District Attorney Jim Farrell is prosecuting him because of politics.

If I had a dime for every time a critic of this column said I write what I write because of my own self interests, I would be very rich by now. The stories I hear are so farfetched and fabricated readers of this column would be shocked by some of the allegations levied against me in an attempt to discredit what I have to say. The simple truth is that my viewpoints are what I truly and honestly believe in.

Equally, it is wrong and unjust to mislead the public into believing members of the Sullivan County Partnership are taking a stand on gas drilling because they have selfish motives.

Critics of the Partnership are now asking the legislature to adopt a code of ethics requiring agencies the County contracts for services to disclose their financial and other potential conflict-of-interests.

While this proposal is noteworthy and warrants discussion, it should have nothing to do with the Partnership’s stand on gas drilling. We are a small County and sadly there is a small circle that takes care of one another.

Legislator Leni Binder has even coined the term “Welfare Wagon Train.”

People seeking subsidies are moving into Sullivan County from other regions like New York City [...]]]> Sullivan County is being bled by social service programs, and people are angry how easy it has become to receive public assistance, motel housing, and cell phones costing us thousands per month.

Legislator Leni Binder has even coined the term “Welfare Wagon Train.”

People seeking subsidies are moving into Sullivan County from other regions like New York City and applying for public assistance, because we appear to be more user friendly than other counties.

Without a doubt those in need should receive help, but people like Binder rightfully believe the County should institute a 30 day residency waiting period before providing services.

Clearly we should take care of our own hardship cases, but those who move here with the intent of getting on the system is another story.

Sullivan County attorneys claim Binder’s plan would be illegal.

County Attorney Sam Yasgur has said if the County was to establish a residency waiting period, “it would violate state and federal law and would potentially be unconstitutional.

Assistant County Attorney Thomas Cawley researching Binder’s proposed resolution has said it “would be unlawful, unenforceable and not defensible if challenged.”

In reality, at the end of the day our County Attorneys might be right, but approving such a measure would draw the attention we need to get some changes in the way people are approved for social services and it might deter transients from moving here.

New York State mandates place the burden on counties when it comes to Medicaid responsibility. Sullivan County has an approximately $500,000 increase in these costs so far this year.

Food stamp applications have been on a rise, as is every other statistic in the public assistance arena. We are up nearly 15 percent from last year and over 20 percent from two years ago, and there appears to be no end in sight.

Nearly 14,500 people are receiving one form of public assistance, and that does not include those in group homes. Residents in group homes receive assistance directly from state coffers, so we cannot even attempt to blame these worthy special needs deserving people.

Obviously, if New York State took full financial responsibility for social service programs they force counties to provide, we might not be in the devastating shape we are in. But, we also need to enact measures to cut costs.

I constantly hear horror stories about how our County is negligent in the way we handle expenses associated with providing services. For example, Taxi services used for transportation are bleeding our county, but no one wants to open up that Pandora’s Box.

We need a complete investigation and overhaul review of all expenses associated with our social service programs. Case workers are overworked, and are being forced to do as they are mandated.

Binder is correct in her desires to enact a 30 day waiting period, whether counsel agrees or not, and she must be thanked for finally opening up the topic for discussion.

It was always a thrill going to the Rivoli to see its grand Art Deco that was once home to Vaudeville.

Like many other of our famed [...]]]> I remember summers past my parents would take me to the Rivoli Theatre in South Fallsburg to see a bargain priced movie, and then we would go to Pop-Ins for dessert.

It was always a thrill going to the Rivoli to see its grand Art Deco that was once home to Vaudeville.

Like many other of our famed institutions, the Rivoli shut its doors because of bad economic times. Thankfully, The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop, our longest standing Community Theatre Group, moved in and it is once again home to live theatre.

The ambitious dream to restore the Rivoli to its original splendor is underway, and the theatre was recently granted Landmark status in the National Registry of Historic Places. The Nartoff-Wells Auditorium seats 475 and is fully heated and air-conditioned.

Founded in 1950, the workshop is a private, not-for-profit organization devoted to providing and promoting quality theatre in Sullivan County. Those interested in live theatre from behind-the-scenes to center stage can polish their craft, while providing countless audiences with hundreds of memorable performances.

Many productions have not only earned critical acclaim, but have also received awards from the Theatre Association of New York State.

For the next two weekends they will be presenting the musical “Little Shop of Horrors” starring Scott Eckers of Swan Lake.

Set in 1960 in urban Skid Row, the story follows a sincere nebbish of a botanist, Seymour Krelbourn (Eckers) who, after a total eclipse of the sun, finds a “strange and interesting plant” and nurtures it to thriving health at the florist shop where he works. Scott’s dad Allen is also part of the production.

Eckers, a newcomer to the theatre group, is certainly not an unknown to our famed Borscht Belt Circuit, making this a nice transition for him. You might have seen Ecker’s performing his solo act in local communities, bungalow colonies, or one of the many hotels that also once existed.

He was featured last week in a benefit concert at Liberty High School along with Richard Chiger and Bob Alper. His soaring vocals on songs such as “Skid Row”, “Suddenly Seymour”, and “The Meek Shall Inherit” will certainly fill the Rivoli’s cavernous auditorium.

Eckers was also instrumental along with Nancy Levine in opening the museum in Swan Lake celebrating the hamlets heritage and playing tribute to its past hotel and bungalow resort days. The exhibit compiled by Eckers is a fascinating look into our past.

Lori Schneider-Wendt, Director of “Little Shop of Horrors” told me, “The cast and crew of “Little Shop” is one of the most talented and warm groups I’ve ever worked with. The passion for theatre is palpable and I think audiences are in for a real treat.”

People always say there is nothing to do in Sullivan County, treat yourself and your family to a great theatrical event while supporting the Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop. For information, phone (845) 436-5336 or log onto www.scdw.net.

Under the leadership of CEO Steve Ruwoldt and with the hospital’s affiliation with Crystal Run, Orange Regional Medical Center [...]]]> As our County continues to struggle, I am pleased to report that Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is repeatedly emerging as one of our major success stories. Gone are the days of bad health care and poor management.

Under the leadership of CEO Steve Ruwoldt and with the hospital’s affiliation with Crystal Run, Orange Regional Medical Center (ORMC), and the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, CRMC has proven that things can get better.

The list of medical professionals now affiliated with the CRMC is extremely impressive, as are the areas of the hospital’s growth. The Emergency Department’s expansion program was unimaginable several short years ago.

Ruwoldt told me the Emergency Department project will double the ER in size. “This will enable us to decrease patient wait times, serve more patients and enhance the level of service provided to meet the community’s needs.”

The landmark $6 million project was remarkably made possible without costing the hospital any money.

State Senator John Bonacic secured almost $2.5 million in state funding for the construction and equipment; Alan Gerry and The Gerry Foundation contributed almost $2.5 million; Congressman Maurice Hinchey secured $300,000 and the Rural Health Access Grant enabled $200,000 for equipment. Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther was also instrumental in the project.

Bonacic told me it was important for him to make certain the venture got funded. “Just because we don’t live in New York City doesn’t mean we should have second class healthcare. We have excellent healthcare professionals, and we want to keep them here, and attract more of them. Keeping our hospitals open and strong is important to me.”

Discussing CRMC’s past conditions, Bonacic said, “It was in serious trouble and has now undergone positive transformation. First, we successfully linked the hospital to Orange Regional. That was an effort I initiated along with Alan Gerry. Second, we were able to partner with the Gerry Foundation to build a new Emergency Room. A new ER will help people in Sullivan County for years, and helping people is what government should be trying to do.”

Bonacic added, “The capital investment is important not only because it keeps standards high, but it tells the public positive changes are happening, and will continue to happen, to keep state of-the-art medicine in our region.”

In addition to the ER expansion, CRMC will soon unveil a number of major projects that will advance patient primary care and outpatient services throughout Sullivan County.

A new diagnostic center will open at the Callicoon location. There will also be an expansion of outpatient diagnostic imaging, ultrasound and radiology services at the Monticello Women’s Health Center. A new practice will also open in Livingston Manor to better serve our community.

It is comforting to know that Sullivan County can boast a new quality health care system. May none of us ever need any of their services, but it is good to know they are there.

Speaking to a room filled with dignitaries, Cuomo stressed the need to consolidate government and cut costs. He received enthusiastic applauds when he [...]]]> Attorney General Andrew Cuomo brought his powerful “Drive for a new New York” gubernatorial campaign to Sullivan County on Monday with a big and passionate non partisan plea to change the way Albany operates.

Speaking to a room filled with dignitaries, Cuomo stressed the need to consolidate government and cut costs. He received enthusiastic applauds when he talked about the need to shrink Sullivan County’s 176 municipalities and cut property taxes.

Cuomo told me he supported Indian Gaming as a means towards economic development. I mentioned the Seneca’s desire to utilize their land settlement act to fast track approval, and he said it was something he was interested in.

Cuomo justifiably praised our great Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, saying that she does what is right for her constituents and does not vote “politics.”

“Believe me, we need leadership in Albany,” Gunther told me. “I am very happy that his focus is on cutting costs, real property taxes, ethics reform and shrinking and consolidating government.”

David Sager, who wants to work with Cuomo in State Senate, said the need for change in Albany was what sparked his campaign. “We cannot continue with business as usual. We need real leadership and trustworthy government in our state capital. I am looking forward to working with Andrew in the State Senate.”

Democratic Chairman Steven Wilkinson said he appreciated Cuomo coming “to meet with our community. He had tremendous support from the bi-partisan audience. Andrew can absolutely lead us out of the mess in Albany.”

Prominent Republicans such as Legislator Leni Binder, Liberty Mayor Richard Winters, and Monticello Mayor Gordon Jenkins were visibly in attendance.

Winters who has been working on consolidating services in Liberty, told me he was proudly backing Cuomo because it is not about politics.

Sean Rieber who heads the County Executive Research Committee said Cuomo made it clear that it is up to us to make change. “Property taxes are too high because there are too many governments. The Villages of Monticello and Liberty are a prime example. These two local governments should be trend setters and dissolve.”

Legislature chairman Jonathan Rouis said he was enthusiastic about Cuomo’s candidacy, and knew he had a long road ahead of him to repair the damage done in Albany.

Legislator Leni Binder said she would need to see Cuomo interact with Assembly leader Sheldon Silver to “really test his leadership,” but quickly added, “I do not see his opponents publically tackling that either.”

County Court Judge candidate Cindy Barber agreed party affiliation should not matter in elections. “Honesty, experience, qualifications, and getting the job done are what should matter.”

Neil Gilberg said Cuomo’s “vision, integrity and proven leadership skills will make New York State the Empire State once again.”

Wilkinson observing Cuomo’s embracing of Sager’s and Barber’s candidacies said “both embody change that must happen to move New York forward.”

It was refreshing to see Cuomo’s desire to woo Sullivan County voters, and hear his praise of Aileen Gunther and Steven Wilkinson.

Thanks to the hard work and amazing commitment from [...]]]> The Forestburgh Playhouse is without a doubt one of Sullivan County’s true gems. It is one of the first places I saw a live theatrical production. I vividly remember going there while in day camp, and my parents taking me as a teenager and a young adult.

Thanks to the hard work and amazing commitment from producing director Norman Duttweiler, and philanthropists such as Stuart Salenger and Guy Spaulding, I am pleased to say live theatre is not only thriving but growing as well.

For years Duttweiler was literally the one man show running everything at our famed theatrical hall, with increased costs of doing live theatre something needed to be done to assist him in running the playhouse. Supporters of the arts like Salenger and Spaulding decided to assist Duttweiler in forming the not-for-profit Forestburgh Theatre Arts Center.

Salenger told me, “I will do anything I can to help it grow and thrive.”

Founded in 1947, the Playhouse is the oldest continuously operating professional summer theatre in New York, and famous stars like Loretta Swift and Ed Asner are often seen on the bill.

Although the Playhouse operates during summer months and offers three different types of performance experiences including Broadway shows, musical cabaret, and productions geared for children, the mission of the Arts Center is very promising for Sullivan County.

To continue the tradition, they will still be nurturing young talent and presenting an entire season of professional musicals and plays, but they will also expand their educational division, already in its third year presenting educational productions to area schools.

This year they will present a contemporary Romeo and Juliet to eight local schools and SCCC. They will also conduct experiential workshops with student audiences to build on what they have experienced on stage.

Discussing the not-for-profit status Duttweiler said, “The terrific summer season won’t change much. We will now be able to expand into new directions that were beyond our means. We will grow our educational division giving students access to the transformative experience of the arts. We can also become an incubator for new shows.”

“If we can continue to attract support from our community, our educational community, and our business community, we can create more of our product that attracts tourism to the Sullivan County and generates income for other local businesses,” Duttweiler added.

Town of Thompson Supervisor Tony Cellini told me he was elated to be named to the new Playhouse Board. “I am honored to be in the likes of Loretta Swift, Ed Asner, and Leroy Reams to promote theatrical arts in Sullivan County.”

Roberta Byron-Lockwood, head of the Sullivan County Visitor’s Association said, “The new Forestburgh Theatre Arts Center affords the Sullivan County Catskills growth and development is an exciting transition that promises to generate a lengthened cultural season which will positively affect economic vitality of Sullivan County tourism industry.

I urge everyone to support the Forestburgh Playhouse and attend their fabulous shows. You will be amazed by the productions and enjoyable themed cabarets.

County Manager David Fanslau was recently alarmed when the State was considering a four percent property tax cap in its budget.

Even though such an increase would [...]]]> With half of the year already over, Sullivan County officials are seriously beginning to tackle our 2011 budget, and as I have been saying all along, the news is not good.

County Manager David Fanslau was recently alarmed when the State was considering a four percent property tax cap in its budget.

Even though such an increase would generate approximately $2 million in revenue, it tragically is not enough to even make a dent in making us financially solvent.

We are shockingly facing an additional $3.72 million decline in a variety of revenue streams including sales taxes, mortgage taxes, Racino income, etcetera, etcetera, and etcetera.

On the expenditure side, Sullivan County is now facing a $1 million increase in health insurance premiums; $500,000 increase in pension costs; and $500,000 increase in Medicaid local share. This does not include a loss of revenue that has stalled in Congress.

In addition to all this, there are state mandates that fall on the counties.

In a recent letter to the head of the New York State Association of Counties, Fanslau pointed out that “State mandated early intervention and pre-k programs require the counties to expend millions with zero ability to control the cost or the growth of the program. The State requires counties to fund indigent defense with very little State aid. Counties are facing cuts in reimbursement rates for health and social services programs mandated by the State. New York State remains one of two states that require a county share of Medicaid, which in Sullivan County will likely exceed $20 million in 2011!”

Fanslau added, “Certainly county elected officials, including the Sullivan County Legislature, don’t want to increase property taxes, but the property taxes are predominantly driven by the unfunded and underfunded mandates. If New York State took full financial responsibility for Medicaid benefits that they chose to provide, then counties would not face the dire fiscal decisions before us. I know Sullivan County would not face layoffs or property tax increases, if we weren’t sending $20 million of locally generated tax revenues to Albany in 2011!”

Fanslau warned legislatures they must begin the budget process with the principal of not increasing General Fund spending. This will be the last budget approved before they are up for reelection.

As an alternative to the blame game, there must be dialogue between the people of Sullivan County.

The County Executive Research Committee is holding forums throughout the county to discuss the possibly of creating a County Executive. I urge everyone to attend and keep an open mind. Chairman Sean Rieber should be contacted at (845)794-1532 for further information.

Instead of self centered political agendas and protecting turf, our elected officials must finally do something. Things are not getting better, and obviously our government is not working.

We need leadership and accountability. Social service programs are bleeding us to death. We need someone who will seriously work towards economic development and bring everyone to the table.

The democracy that was born out of our independence from Britain is something we often forget about.

I [...]]]> Our Constitution and Declaration of Independence has granted us so much freedom we often take for granted, this weekend while we celebrate our independence with BBQ’s and fireworks, take a moment to reflect on being part of the American Dream.

The democracy that was born out of our independence from Britain is something we often forget about.

I am thankful to live in such a diverse nation made up of such vibrant people. It should not be difficult for us to understand why so many people leave their suppressed countries to settle in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Many towns and villages will be celebrating this weekend with firework displays, street fairs and other festivities.

On Saturday former County Clerk Neil Gilberg along with the Town of Fallsburg and Thunder 102 will be holding the 7th annual Francis Curry Day event at Morningside Park saluting those who fight to protect our Independence.

The event honors Sullivan County veterans along with those brave men and women who are currently serving us in the military.

The park opens at 1:00 with inflatable rides for the kids until 5pm. There will be a touching program attended by Francis Currey along with local officials.

The Bronx Wanderers will perform at the event followed by a Spectacular Fireworks display. There will be additional entertainment including The Sullivan Steppers.

The Liberty Chamber of Commerce will be holding their 17th annual Fourth of July Parade and Festival this Sunday on Main Street starting at noon.

As we celebrate our Independence, I often think how in other countries the media is controlled by the government, and expressions of diverse opinions are denied.

The publishers and editors of The Sullivan County Democrat fully understand the true meaning of freedom of speech. Twice a week they provide us with an outlet to express our viewpoints in a forum that is open, honest, and uncensored.

I am grateful to be afforded the opportunity to discuss the issues facing us on a weekly basis. Hopefully my columns assist in creating honest dialogue throughout Sullivan County.

Although some of us might not understand differences or disagreements, we must learn to tolerate and respect others.

No matter ones viewpoints, race, creed, color, gender, age, education, wealth, sexual orientation, or religious ideology, we all strive for the same goals and quality of life. Even though some of our customs, political beliefs, and the way we approach life may vary, we are all the same.

Every summer Sullivan County is inundated with diverse groups. Some of our summer residents dress differently and live life atypical from what we consider to be the norm. Understanding and acceptance can go a long way.

Sullivan County is a wonderful part of New York State, and even though we are going through hard times, we must all still be thankful for our independence and freedom.

Happy 4th of July and enjoy your hot dog!