SCHOOL IS ALMOST IN SESSION - Please remember to stop for school busses when they are loading and/or unloading our children. It's the law!

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Town of Bethel



Subject: Bethel Living History


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:21:20 06/30/09 Tue



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Subject: LOST CAT


Author:
Rosealie Hochman
[Edit]

Date Posted: 13:19:08 06/26/09 Fri

LOST CAT: White persian female cat with champane colored ears and tail. Very Flufy looking. Answers to "Casey' or "Miss Casey"

Lost in the White Lake homes in Kauneonga Lake, NY,
Please call me at 845-583-5023 or 845-796-8403.
Thank You

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Subject: Support Our Local Farmers


Author:
Fiddlers Flea Market
[Edit]

Date Posted: 07:54:19 06/22/09 Mon

As part of a new "Help Thy Neighbor" campaign for 2009 - Beginning July 3rd -Fiddlers Flea Market on route 17B in the town of Bethel offers free vendor spaces in an effort to help promote and suppport our local Sullivan County and neighboring Wayne county farmers. 10 10x10 spaces on our lot will be made available free of charge for the remainder of the season which ends in October. Vendors must have shelter and set up if so desired. Pop up tents and outdoor tables may be donated and designated strictly for the farmers use. They will be adorned with the words "Support your local farmer". The market is open Sat. - Sun. & Holildays - 9-5 every weekend rain or shine. Naturally, we don't expect the outdoor vendors to be here in the rain - so the farmers market will be weather permitting with no obligation on rainy days. Next year, we will establish an annual membership fee for minimal charge to each vendor of the farmers market. We're thinking along the lines of $200 per vendor for the entire year - would enjoy the feedback and look forward to making this work for you - our local farmers!!

Pass it on!

Babette Ross
Fiddlers Flea Market
845-583-6375

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Subject: It is with deep regret


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 05:53:56 06/18/09 Thu

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Herman Bressler, Past Chairman and founder of the Town of Bethel Planning Board. Viewing will be held on Friday from 3 - 5 PM and 7 - 9 PM at the Ramsey Funeral Home,
3534 State Route 55, Kauneonga Lake. The funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 AM at the Bethel Presbyterian Church, 1972 State Route 17B, opposite Dr. Duggan Road. Donations can be sent to Bethel Volunteer Ambulance Corp or the Sullivan County Audubon Society.

Very truly yours,

BJ Gettel

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Subject: "Beth'EL"


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:19:29 06/18/09 Thu

By Popular Demand...
...An Encore Presentation of

"Beth'EL"
(House of God)

a pre-victorian tableau of a resplendent Catskills Haven (1750-18023)
Written and Staged by G. Oliver King

Saturday, July 4th @ 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 5th @ 4:00 pm

Some Seating Provided, Lawn Chairs & Blankets Welcomed

$10.00 Per Person
$ 5.00 Seniors and Students
Free Under Age 6

For More Information, Including Vendor Space - Please Call: 914-799-5528

A Living History Production in Celebration of the Town of Bethel Bicentennial (1809-2009)



Victoria
Stage Manager, Beth'EL

Victoria V. Leighton
917-531-6689
Theatreperson@verizon.net

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Subject: Board Of Education Candidate Campaign


Author:
Babette Ross (Inspired)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:54:59 04/18/09 Sat

"Dear Monticello Central School District Voters,

As an active Bethel resident, I would like to earn your support as a candidate for the vacant seat on the Board of Education.

I appreciate and encourage your interest in the Monticello School District, our children and the community as a whole.

As you know, the Monticello School District is home to great schools, great kids, great teachers and administrators, and great families who support these all. Yet, there are some serious issues ahead:

* Can we continue to provide the same quality education for the students of our community, despite difficult financial times we face now and those ahead?
* Can we increase or even sustain programs such as improved extra-curricular opportunities and more substantial character education programs?
* Can we afford improved technology that supports core area learning; resulting in improved test scores?
* Are there programs available that afford grant opportunities for funding?
* Will all of our schools maintain their status as the foundation of our outstanding communities?
* Can we identify areas to improve efficiencies and limit spending, in order to keep a financially sound and balanced budget?
* Will financial expenditures need to be reduced? If cuts are needed, how will students and their programs be affected?
* How do we acknowledge the challenges we face while maintaining the great schools that keep our property values high and our community strong?

I know that the Board of Education will continue to face these and other challenges head-on. But for success as a District, we must work together in a collaborative and open process in which all of our residents have the opportunity to voice their opinions and have their opinions heard. We need this and collectively we can accomplish many things.

I trust you will feel I have the integrity and experience to be counted on. In fact, I pledge to be accountable to the residents of our community and our district as we battle the challenges and celebrate the victories; emerge with stronger schools, stronger property values, and the strongest of communities all while making a positive difference in the lives of our children who are or will be the students of the MCSD.

Let us move forward through these challenging economic times by focusing on
our children. Our stresses must not be theirs. It is incumbent upon us to
provide them the very best. Of all the responsibilities the Board Of
Education must answer for it is the well being of our children which is of
the highest priority. Our future truly depends on this.

Please feel free to contact me by email or at 845-583-6375 with questions, comments or suggestions. I look forward to your input and feedback as I continue to work for you and our children, and for our schools and community.

I hope to have your support on voting day; May 19th, 2009." I would appreciate the forward of this message to your friends, family and constituents to share the vital issues and information contained.

A special thank you to those who have endorsed my candidacy by signing the nominating petition, I hope to make you all proud.

Wife, Mother, Friend and one with your concerns,
I am sincerely,

BABETTE ROSS
Mongaup Valley

> Mother to 4 (ages 22, 20, 4 and 2)
> 19 yrs prior experience as a Parent Advocate in the Special Education System
> Town of Bethel Youth Board, new member 2009
> Sullivan County Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) coordinator, developing & implementing 2009
> Local Family Business Owner - Fiddlers Flea Market (3 yrs) & Ross Auto (family business over 40yrs)
> Experienced Business Admin., Contract Coordinator, Technical Admin. (1991 - 2002)
> Experienced and familiar with contracts with the New York State School Buildings & Grounds Association (NYS SBGA) and New York State School Business Officials (NYSASBO)
(Business Member / commercial trade 1991-1997)
> 5yrs Notary service in the State of Florida
> Lifetime member FFA Alumni (currently active in Agriculture Education
> Outreach & Program introduction/development for the MCSD)
> Church Council, Pastor Parish Relations and Lay Leader council at the Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church
> Deep Family Roots in our Community

2009-10 Monticello Central School District Budget
Budget Vote is Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monticello School District residents will go the polls on May 19 to vote on a proposed school budget for the 2009-10 school year.
http://www.monticelloschools.net/District/Budget/0910budgetinfo.htm
In addition to the proposed budget, district residents will go to the polls on Tuesday, May 19, to:
Elect three Board of Education members for the seats of incumbents Robert Stewart and Jacob Billig
and the seat vacated by the late Eugene Nesin.

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[> Subject: Re: Board Of Education Candidate Campaign


Author:
Llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 17:26:51 06/13/09 Sat

Townofbethel.com Webmasters and staff wish to congratulate Ms. Babette Ross on her election to the Monticello School Board. We are very proud of her efforts and are confident that she will be a huge asset to our Town as our representative to the district.

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Subject: Bethel Clerk Rita Sheehan's June News Letter


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:21:37 06/09/09 Tue

Town of Bethel June Newsletter


Fun in the Sun, at the Beach, at the Parks, and at the Pool! This month I will be exposing all the beautiful places to see in our Town and surrounding area. Enjoy your summer and have a picnic at one our Town Parks.



Flag Day - June 14th Fly your flag proudly!



Schedule of Town Meetings



Town Board June 3rd, 10th and 24th 7:30 p.m. at Senior Center

June 10th (7-7:30 p.m.) County Landfill Presentation, County Manager and Legislator, David Sager

Planning Board June 9th 7:30 p.m. at Senior Center

Zoning Board June 15th 7:30 p.m. at Justice Court

Youth Board June 16th 7 p.m. at Justice Court



Think Green – Reduce, Recycle and Reuse



It's not easy being green – Kermit the Frog



If Kermit only knew what that saying would mean today. Recycling does take an effort. It also saves space in our landfills; it keeps our streets cleaner it also saves consumers and taxpayers money.

To those of you who have been keeping your streets clean, then a BIG THANK YOU!



Recycling one ton of cardboard saves over nine cubic yards of landfill space.

Recycling aluminum saves 95% energy vs. virgin aluminum

Recycling aluminum reduces pollution by 95%

Recycled glass saves 50% energy

Recycled glass generates 20% less air pollution and 50% water pollution

Glass can be used an infinite number of times

If we recycled every plastic bottle we used we would keep 2 billion tons of plastic out of landfills

Over a ton of resources is saved for every ton of glass recycled

Using 50% recycled glass cuts the waste by 75%

Recycling one glass bottle saves enough energy to light a 100-watt bulb for four hours.



Town of Bethel Bicentennial Fair and Parade

Saturday, July 11th

Parade step-off at 11:00 a.m. at Town Hall along Route 55 East to the Kauneonga Lake Firemen's Pavilion. Bergen County Pipe Band, Museum at Bethel Woods, fire companies, floats and more!

Fair immediately following until 7 p.m. Two bounce houses, 30 foot slide, live music, food, old fashioned field games, raffles, community information tables, Butterfly Botanicals tent sponsored by S.C. Alzheimer's Assoc., face painting, balloon puppetry, airbrush tattoos, sand art, bird and bat house building, and Turkey laser shoot, dunking booth (come get your favorite politician wet!). Free shuttle parking at Route 17B and Route 55 East (old El Monaco's lot). Shuttle van will take marchers to their parade step-off point, festival-goers to the fair, to downtown eateries, and the Town museum. The van will run back and forth all day long. For more information 583-4350 ext. 11 or 14.





Town of Bethel Museum

The Town of Bethel Museum is officially open! Dedicated to the Town's history during our Bicentennial year. Located at 3552 Route 55, Kauneonga Lake. Operated by community volunteers. Open June through September; Fridays 2 – 8 p.m., Saturday and Sundays 2 – 5 p.m. Otherwise if you see the sign board out, we are open and stop on in. For more information call Museum Director, Bill Burns at 292-9241.



The New York State Dept. of Env. Cons. has updated their website.

Here are two useful links on young wildlife and black bears:



If You Care, Leave It There – DEC Website on young wildlife
http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/54792.html

Tips to Help Prevent Encounters with Black Bears
http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/54987.html



Boating Safety Course

Saturday, June 13th at the Bethel Justice Court, 3586 Route 55, Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749. Register by calling 518-794-6170. 8 a.m. until approximately 4 p.m. $25.00 Fee for materials. Walter Brightleee, Certified NY State Instructor. Books and certificates supplied. Must 10 years old or older. Limited to 35. For more information www.nysparks.com



Bethelites Meeting

June 18th 6:30 covered dish at Senior Center. This is the last meeting of the year and they will be finalizing plans for the Bicentennial Fair and Parade.



Waterfront Life Guarding Class

Bethel Parks and Recreation will be offering a Waterfront Life Guarding Class in June. The course included American Red Cross Certifications in Waterfront Life Guarding (good for pool and lake life guard jobs), CPR and First Aid. The majority of the course will be held at the Town of Bethel Park/Pool. The course dates are Friday, June 5th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, Saturday, June 6th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Sunday, June 7th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday, June 12th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Saturday, June 13th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, June 14th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Participants must attend all dates listed. A pre-test will be given on the first evening. The cost of the course is $250 for Town of Bethel residents and $275.00 for non-residents. A non-refundable deposit of $50.00 is required at registration. For more information, please contact Cathy at 583-8224.



All the programs listed below will have registration days on Saturday, June 6th from 10 AM until Noon at the Town of Bethel Park and during Family Fun Day at the Park on June 20th from 11 AM – 1 PM:



Lake Compounce trip is still being put together. Prices are to be determined. Coach bus trip is on August 6th. Tentative prices are $40 for adults and $20 for youth. More info. at Family Fun Day at the Pool on June 20th



Morning Summer Program

6 weeks, Monday-Friday during the hours of 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Begins Monday, July 6th and ends Friday, August 14th. The activities include Arts & Crafts, Playground, Field games and Sports, Reading and Dramatics, American Red Cross Swim Instruction, Special trips and Theme Days. The program is held at the Town of Bethel Park on Old White Lake Turnpike off Route 55. This program is for children who will be attending Kindergarten in the fall of '09 and have completed a Pre-Kindergarten program (proof required) through the age of 12. Youth age13 may apply to be a volunteer Counselor In Training by completing a job application. Cost is $40 per child for Town of Bethel Residents and $60 per child for non-residents.



All Day Summer Program

7 weeks, Monday-Friday during the hours of 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Activities are inclusive of the morning program as well as free swim times and additional activities. It is also open to the same age group as the Morning Summer Program. An afternoon snack is provided; parents must provide lunch for the child and transportation. Cost is $600 for the first child, $450 for the second child in the family. The program is held at the Town of Bethel Park.





Town of Bethel Preschool Evening Swim Program



Dates: Monday and Wednesday evenings during July – begins July 6th

7/6, 7/8, 7/13, 7/15, 7/20. 7/22. Rain dates: 7/27 and/or 7/29

Time: 6:00 to 6:30 PM Cost: $30.00 per child for 6 sessions



Children are to be prepared to go in the pool each session. The swim instruction includes water adjustment activities, safety skills and American Red Cross Level 1 Learn to Swim skills. Many young children are not developmentally ready to become "swimmers" although some children are. This course is designed to build on the comfort level your child has in the water.



Instructor: Cathy McFadden 583-8224 Bethel Pool #: 292-2843



Please note: During this program, the pool is closed to the public. Parents may join their child in the class or watch from the pool edge.



Infant, Toddler & Preschool Aquatics Program (IPAP)



This is a water adjustment program designed by the American Red Cross. It requires both the parent and the child to be in the water together. The proper holding techniques and beginning swim skills will be taught. Please come prepared to go in the water with your child.



3 Half-hour sessions will be held on Saturday mornings as follows: July 18th, July 25th, August 1st



Children ages 2 to 5 years: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Children ages 6 months to 2 years: 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM

Cost: $15 per child Instructor: TBA



Bethel Town Pool: 292-2843



Bethel Youth T-ball and Softball Recreational Program

When: Wednesday evenings for 6 sessions (weather permitting)

Starts July 8th – 7/8, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29, 8/5, 8/12

Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM Where: Town of Bethel Park

Cost: NO CHARGE FOR BETHEL RESIDENTS

Ages: T-Ball is for youth ages 4 to 7 Softball is for youth ages 8 to 12

Parents are asked to remain on the grounds during the program. The program is for recreational purposes only. It is not competitive. Program supervision is provided by teenagers with an adult overseeing the program.



Bethel Youth Basketball Program

When: Monday evenings for 6 sessions (weather permitting)

Starts July 6th – 7/6, 7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10

Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM Where: Town of Bethel Park

Cost: NO CHARGE FOR BETHEL RESIDENTS
Ages: Youth ages 7 to 10

Parents are asked to remain on grounds during program. The program is for recreational purposes only. It is not competitive.



Town of Bethel TAE KWON DO Program

Session 2

When: Tuesday evenings for 4 sessions

Starts June 2nd, - 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23

Time: 6-7 PM Child (age 4 to 10) and Parent Class

7-8 PM Teen (age 11 and up) and Adult Class

Where: Duggan School Gym Cost: $20 per person payable at 1st class

Session 3

When: Tuesday evenings for 8 sessions

Starts July 7th – 7/7, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28, 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25

Time: 6:00 to 7:00 PM – Parent and Child Class (age 4 to 10)

7:00 to 8:00 PM – Teen (age 11 an up) and Adult

Where: TBA Cost: $40 per person. Payable at first class



Instructor: Mike McCauley, certified instructor, 2nd degree black belt



Bethel Family Fun Day
Saturday, June 20th 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Town of Bethel Pool and Park

See attached flyer for details of the days events. Pick up your Bicentennial Crossword Puzzle. Bring your completed and correct puzzle to the Bethel Bicentennial Tent at the Fair and receive a prize!



Smallwood 5K

Sunday, July 5th, 2009

Walkers @ 8:30, Runners @ 9:00am

Free post race refreshments, awards and T- Shirts. Overall Male and Female awards for runners & walkers.

1st, 2nd & 3rd place for runners in each age group. There will be an age group for men and women.

The categories will be:

12yrs and under 20yrs-29yrs 40yrs-49yrs 60yrs-69yrs

13yrs-19yrs 30yrs-39yrs 50yrs-59yrs 70yrs & over

Entry Fee- $18 to pre-register by June 28th

$20 to register day of the race

Pre-registration must be postmarked by June 28th, 2009, please make checks out to:

SMVFD, c/o Matt Burns

89 Crumley Van Vactor Rd.

Ferndale, NY 12734



Old Country Auction



At the Country Kitchen on Airport Road every Thursday at 6 p.m. Indoors, no admission fee. To view weekly item log onto www.auctionzip.com and enter Mongaup Valley zip code 12762. Items can be donated to go towards the Smallwood-Mongaup Valley Fire Dept. building fund. Make sure to mention lot #30 for the fire co. to receive the money raised. For more information call 583-6366.



Bethel Farmer's Market



3rd Annual Bethel Farmer's Market at the Kauneonga Lake Firemen's Pavilion, Route 55 East, behind Justice Court. Starting Fridays, July 10th through August 28th from 3 – 6 p.m. Fresh Local Produce, breads, live plants, baked goods, jewelry. For more information call 985-2425.



Fireworks – Kauneonga Lake

Saturday, July 4th at dusk – Kauneonga Community Park over looking White Lake. Sponsored by Town of Bethel. Thank you to the volunteer Pyrotechnics, Lynden Lilley and Cornelius Alexy, for their expertise and time.



Smallwood Mongaup Valley F.D. Open House

Annual Open House at the Fireman's Field, Sunday, July 5th Starting at 1:00 p.m. Free hot dogs, beer and soda. Raffles, 50/50.

The Club at Smallwood

Join the Club at Smallwood (next door to Friend's Restaurant) - "The best hidden secret in Sullivan County". As a member you will be able to enjoy the benefits of a supervised heated pool, horseshoes, Bocci Balls, ping-pong, paddleball, volleyball, and basketball, pool parties and bingo. Saturday night dances followed by coffee and dessert. Movies twice a week and social card playing. Open to Sullivan County homeowners. Contact Janie 583-0595 or Honey 583-7230 for event info. and membership.

Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County

It takes just a two hour a week commitment to change a life - TUTORS NEEDED: Training will include BASIC ENGLISH and ESOL. For more information, call the Literacy Volunteer office, (845) 794-0017.



County Bicentennial Events

Log onto www.scva.net and click on the County Bicentennial Logo.

Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days in New York State sponsored by NYS Dept. of Env. Cons. June 27th and 28th. No license required for residents or non-residents to fish public waters. All other regulations apply.



Forestburgh Playhouse

Theater all summer, call 794-1194 or visit them on the web at www.fbplayhouse.com



Sullivan County Airport Festival Committee for the Families of Iraq War Vets



June 15, 2009 – GOLF FOR GOOD – Get together your foursome or come on your own!


Where: Swan Lake Golf and Country Club When: June 15th – Rain Date June 22nd
Events: Hole-in-One Contest – Prize – 2010 Chevrolet Camero Raffles, Prizes and more!

Entry Fee: Single - $100.00 Foursome - $400.00

Foursome with Hole Sponsorship - $550.00

Hole Sponsorship Alone - $250.00

Time: Continental Breakfast and Registration - 9 a.m.

Tee Time – 10 a.m.

Lunch – Barbecue Lunch

Sponsorships: Breakfast - $300.00

Lunch - $500.00

Beverage - $125.00



August 22, 2009 – RADIOTHON – Come Join Us

Where: Sullivan County Airport

When: August 22nd – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sponsored By: Thunder 102 Radio and the River Reporter

Entertainment: Come to the Airport and enjoy live entertainment along with the Radiothon!

You will also find them at various events in Orange and Sullivan County this summer. Look for our booth!





Parks In Bethel



Lake Superior Park - Lifeguards on duty, snack bar, showers and bathrooms. Electric motor boats only. Paddle boat and row boat rentals available, operated by Sullivan County DPW, part of the Palisades Interstate Park System. Fishing, swimming, picnic areas, play area, pavilions may be rented. Snack bar open daily. Open from Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day for swimming. Located on Dr. Duggan Road in Bethel. Fees: County residents seasonal $10.00/Non-Residents $20.00. Daily passes: County residents $2.00/non-residents $3.00. Passes are available at the gate. Bring proof of residency. For more information call (845) 794-3000 ext. 5002.



Town of Bethel Pool and Park - located off Route 55 East on Old White Lake Turnpike. Owned and operated by the Town of Bethel. Bathrooms, new pavilion, snack bar, Certified Lifeguards. Passes are available at the Pool. New Picnic tables, basketball court, bring your own grill. New Playground. Closes at dusk.



The Arthur N. Smallwood and Ruth Smallwood Park - nestled in the woods on Mountain Lakes Road in Smallwood. Visit the tomb of Mr. and Mrs. Smallwood, founders of the Hamlet. Walk along the stream and visit the legendary "Minne Falls".



Mongaup River Fishing Access - Plank Road (off Route 17B), Mongaup Valley - this is an unimproved fishing access area. No facilities.



White Lake State Boat Launch - located on Route 55 East in Kauneonga Lake. Access beautiful White Lake to fish, swim or motorboat. Parking area and portable restrooms. Community Park with gazebo.



Outside of Bethel: (These are some of my favorites)



Mongaup Pond - located off the Livingston Manor exit in Debruce, follow signs. This is a great place to camp locally or to take a day trip. At the entrance of the State park is a small fish hatchery open to the public, bring your bikes or roller blades to use on the newly paved path around the lake, rent paddle boats or row boats. Picnic area, showers and bathrooms available. Pond # (845) 256-3083/Hatchery # (845) 439-4328



Stone Arch Bridge - located at Routes 52 & 52A between Jeffersonville and Callicoon. Stream, pathways and a new playground, picnic tables. Trees are labeled for identification. Quiz yourself for fun!



Delaware River - tube, raft or canoe down the Delaware. Many public and private access points in Sullivan County along Route 97. Eagle watch in the winter. (845) 557-6162



Here's What's Happening At Consumer and Financial Ed.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County



HeatSmart NY Classes are two hour workshops that provide energy and financial information to families faced with higher energy costs. These classes are free and open to the public. For further information and to register, call Linda at 292-5250. Here are June's classes:



Exploring Credit/Debt Management Issues-June 18th at 5:00-7:00pm at CCE-This workshop provides information on selecting and using credit wisely, strategies for paying down debt, obtaining and receiving a credit report, and understanding a credit score. Participants will receive free credit management tools.



Save Energy, Save Dollars-June 25th at 5:00-7:00pm at CCE -Learn about low-cost and no-cost ways to save energy and reduce your energy bills. Also learn about programs that can help you afford energy-efficiency improvements with subsides, low-interest loans or free services to qualifying households. There will be free energy-saving materials to be provided to all participants.



First Time Home Buyer's Club Spring Workshops - This 6 class series is offered free to local area residents. It helps participants explore the home buying process and it offers an opportunity to qualify for a $7,500 grant that will apply to the purchase of your new home. For more information and to register call Sean Welsh at 292-5250 ext 127. The last 5 classes are on June 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th and July 7th at 6:00pm.



Family Budget Education Program- Having a hard time making ends meet? This program will help you take control of your finances. If the program suits your needs a trained budget volunteer will work with you on a one-to-one basis. This program is free and open to the public. Please call Sean Welsh at 292-5250 ext 127, for more information.



3rd Annual Golf Classic Fundraiser – Cornell Cooperative Extension will be having their golf tournament on July 11th at 11:00am. The rain date will be Sunday July 12th. It will be held at the Swan Lake Golf and Country Club. For more information call 292-5250.



Bethel Website of the Month: www.stacyandfriends.com



www.gasbuddy.com

High–Low Gasoline Prices posted by consumers


Have a Fun Summer!

From the Desk of Rita Sheehan

Bethel Town Clerk

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Salute to Our Troops


Author:
zeke
[Edit]

Date Posted: 10:27:44 06/04/09 Thu

I watched the flag
Pass by one day,
It fluttered in the breeze.




A young Marine
Saluted it,
And then he stood at ease..


I looked at
Him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
With hair cut square
And eyes alert
He'd stand out in any crowd.



I thought how many men
Like him
Had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign
Soil
How many mothers' tears?


How many pilots' planes
Shot down?
How many died at sea
How many foxholes were soldiers'
Graves ?
No, freedom isn't free

I heard the sound of Taps
One night,
When everything was still,
I listened to the bugler

Play
And felt a sudden chill.

I wondered just how many times

That Taps had meant 'Amen,'

When a flag had draped a
Coffin.
Of a brother or a friend.




I thought of all the
Children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and
Husbands
With interrupted lives.

I
Thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea



Of unmarked graves in
Arlington .
No, freedom isn't free.



Enjoy Your Freedom
& God Bless Our Troops

When
You receive this, please stop for a moment
And
Say a
Prayer for our servicemen.
Of all the gifts you could give
A US Soldier, Prayer is the very best
One.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Salute to Our Troops


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:44:16 06/04/09 Thu

This is very good. Did you write it?
Please consider posting to the Catskill Chronicles blog http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=86703223198&h=YggyM&u=9pu-P&ref=mf

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Salute to Our Troops


Author:
zeke
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:59:37 06/05/09 Fri

I did not write it, I found it on line and thought it was great. If I knew who did write , I would give them the credit. Just enjoy it.:-)

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Some Old Time Fiddlers - Fiddlin Around at Fiddlers Flea Market 5/23


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:31:11 05/15/09 Fri

When/Time: May 23rd 12pm (noon)
Where: Fiddlers Flea Market
1080 Route 17B
Mongaup Valley, NY 12762
(5 miles west of the Monticello Race Track - 5 Miles East of Bethel Woods)

The Flea Market will kick off the season opening at 9am to prepare for the arrival of some Old Time Fiddlers - the Fiddlin' Around group with Steve Jacobi have graced concerts for many seasons. They will take the stage at noon. Under the direction of award-winning fiddle player Steve Jacobi, the fiddlers focus on promoting and preserving the musical traditions of our area. The group plays a variety of bluegrass, old-time, western swing, Canadian and Celtic music with requests from the audience being a big part of their performance. You want some real down-home fiddle stompin' fun - this will be the place to be! There is no charge for the event, but a free will offering will be accepted to assist in having this group return in the future. Lunch Menu will be available onsite. Rain or Shine - market indoor & out! 845-583-6375 http://www.fiddlers-flea-market.com

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Please contact me...


Author:
James M. Hurst (wonderful memories)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:09:25 05/15/09 Fri

When I think back on my childhood, all I can recall is Smallwood,NY. My father worked in the city but bought a country home for his family. He couldn't have picked a better place than Smallwood. They had everything and it's real charm was that it was small. I recall the old swimming hole down by the creek and Mr. & Mrs. Smallwood's mausouleum down there too. We lived on Mongaupe Rd. then and, as I remember, streams were everywhere. And, there were friendly neighbors to spare.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: From the Desk Of Rita Sheehan,May News Letter


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 06:45:56 05/07/09 Thu

TOWN OF BETHEL

MAY E-MAIL NEWSLETTER











We've got ALOT of news to chirp about this month!





The following websites relate to the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu). The information is updated daily on several of the websites especially the WHO and CDC. The WHO website also has briefings from the Director and both CDC and WHO have video broadcasting of announcements.



World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int

WHO is coordinating the global response to human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) and monitoring the corresponding threat of an influenza pandemic. Information on this page tracks the evolving situation and provides access to both technical guidelines and information useful for the general public. Up-to-date numbers of cases are included in the most recent disease outbreak.



United States Center for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov/swineflu/



CDC′s Mission is to collaborate to create the expertise, information, and tools that people and communities need to protect their health – through health promotion, prevention of disease, injury and disability, and preparedness for new health threats.

CDC′s Vision for the 21st Century is "Health Protection…Health Equity"



Pandemic Flu: www.pandemicflu.gov

The CDC is actively investigating human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) in the United States and is working closely with Canada and Mexico and with the World Health Organization (WHO). The CDC is continuously updating investigation information

New York State Dept. of Health: www.nyhealth.gov

For more information the public can also call the New York State Department of Health

at 1-800-808-1987.



County of Sullivan: www.co.sullivan.ny.us

On the top right in the department pull down mention choose Public Health Services



Town Hall Schedule

Town Hall will be closed on Monday, May 25th for Memorial Day



Town Meetings

Town Board – May 13th – Senior Center at 7:30

Town Board – May 27th meeting changed to 6/3

Town Board – June 3rd – Senior Center at 7:30

Planning Board – May 12th – Senior Center at 7:00

Zoning Board – May 18th– Justice Court at 7:30

Youth Board – May 19th– Justice Court at 7:00

Town Website Updates: The internet company that hosts the Town Website changed servers and I have been unable to log-on to make any changes or updates to the Town’s website for 30 days. This includes agendas, minutes, bicentennial info, etc. I am hoping this will be fixed soon. Sorry for the inconvenience.



Bethel Historical Museum Seeks Volunteers and Artifacts



White Lake - The Bethel Historical Museum will be opening this May in Kauneonga Lake at the old Sylvia's S & G Outlet on Route 55 East. Long-time resident Bill Burns has been appointed Museum Director by the Bethel Town Board. He currently serves as a Board of Directors for the Sullivan County Historical Society. "Bill has the knowledge and experience to run the museum and was a perfect choice as director", commented Bicentennial Chairwoman Rita Sheehan. "This is the first of this endeavor and it has been a long-time coming", added Sheehan. The museum is part of the Town's Bicentennial celebration and will be open through September. Volunteers are needed to help set-up the exhibits and to operate the museum. No experience is necessary to be a volunteer.



In addition to volunteers, items for exhibit are being accepted on loan such as old farm tools, photographs, artifacts, old signs, letters, maps or any other item that may be of interest. All items on loan will be properly indexed for safe return to their owner when the museum closes. An opening reception is planned later this month. For more information, to volunteer or to loan an item contact Bill Burns at 292-9241.



Pie Baking Contest and Raffle Drawing

The Bicentennial Pie Baking Contest will be held at the 7th Dr. Duggan Community Pride Day on May 16th. All entries must be received at the Town Hall by May 15th. Rules and registration forms can be picked up at the Town Hall (I can also fax or e-mail). No fee to enter. Two categories: Fruit and custard/crème pies. All ingredients including crust must be home made. Please, amateur bakers only. Open to all age groups. Pies will be judged on appearance, texture and flavor. Prizes, ribbons and of course bragging rights to winners of the two categories.



Also, on May 16th will be the raffle drawing for over 30 prizes and gift certificates donated by local businesses. No need to be present to win. Raffle tickets can be purchased at the Town Hall. There were only 1,000 tickets printed. 100% of proceeds benefit all Bicentennial events. Games of Chance License No. 48-201-199-08918



And before you leave at the end of Community Pride Day, please take one seedling/sappling per family to plant in honor of our 200th Birthday!


911 House Numbering

Please remember to post your house number (911 number) clearly visible from the roadway. Numbers should be reflective and 3” high. If you do not know your house number contact B.J. Gettel in the Building Department at 583-4649 ext. 15 and she will be happy to help you.



Bethel Youth Summer Programs

Registration will be held at the Duggan School Community Pride Day on Saturday, May 16th 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. If you have any questions, you may call Cathy @ 583-8224, Kathy @ 583-7758 or Jannetta @ 292-4025.



Duggan Fifth Grade Class is hosting a Community Yard Sale

The Duggan Fifth Grade Class is hosting a Community Yard Sale to raise funds for their class trip. The Community Yard Sale will be held on Saturday, May 16th from 10 AM to 2 PM at the 7th Duggan School Community Pride Day. The yard sale will be held outside if it is sunny or inside the school if it is rainy. The fifth grade is accepting donations of items for their sale. Also, they are offering limited tables to community members for $10.00 for community members to sell their own yard sale items. Contact Cathleen Doherty, PTO President, at 796-8717 for more information or to rent a table. Please contact Cathleen by May 9th if you are interested in a table. Also, the Duggan Fifth Grade Class is collecting gently used books to donate to the Bethel Literacy Center , Past Perfect Bookstore. Books will collected at the Duggan School during the month of May.



Morning Summer Program

6 weeks, Monday-Friday during the hours of 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Begins Monday, July 6th and ends Friday, August 14th. The activities include Arts & Crafts, Playground, Field games and Sports, Reading and Dramatics, American Red Cross Swim Instruction, Special trips and Theme Days. The program is held at the Town of Bethel Park on Old White Lake Turnpike off Route 55. This program is for children who will be attending Kindergarten in the fall of '09 and have completed a Pre-Kindergarten program (proof required) through the age of 12. Youth age13 may apply to be a volunteer Counselor In Training by completing a job application. Cost is $40 per child for Town of Bethel Residents and $60 per child for non-residents.



All Day Summer Program

7 weeks, Monday-Friday during the hours of 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Activities are inclusive of the morning program as well as free swim times and additional activities. It is also open to the same age group as the Morning Summer Program. An afternoon snack is provided; parents must provide lunch for the child and transportation. Cost is $600 for the first child, $450 for the second child in the family. The program is held at the Town of Bethel Park .



Waterfront Life Guarding Class

Bethel Parks and Recreation will be offering a Waterfront Life Guarding Class in June. The course included American Red Cross Certifications in Waterfront Life Guarding (good for pool and lake life guard jobs), CPR and First Aid. The majority of the course will be held at the Town of Bethel Park/Pool. The course dates are Friday, June 5th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, Saturday, June 6th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Sunday, June 7th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday, June 12th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Saturday, June 13th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, June 14th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Participants must attend all dates listed. A pre-test will be given on the first evening. The cost of the course is $250 for Town of Bethel residents and $275.00 for non-residents. A non-refundable deposit of $50.00 is required at registration. For more information, please contact Cathy at 583-8224.



Bethel Family Fun Day

To celebrate the Town of Bethel 's 200th Birthday, a special event will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Town Park . Games and crafts for the kids and delicious food. The pool will be open for the season with free swimming during the event. Check-out the new playground, have a picnic, and enjoy a family day of fun for Free!



Free Rabies Clinic

Town of Liberty Thursday, May 21st 6:00-7:30 PM Hanofee Park Sunset Lake Road

Bring prior rabies certificate to receive a 3-year vaccination. No Vaccine history, receive a 1-year vaccination.

All pets must be in a carrier or on a leash. All pets must be at least 3 months old. Dogs - Cats – Ferrets

Sponsored by Sullivan County Public Health Services 292-5910 Liberty Town Clerk 292-5110.



Bethel First Announcement

ATTENTION: VOLUNTEERS Needed to Enhance Our Town of BETHEL. If you have a little time to volunteer or you want to join a scheduled Maintenance "Work Party", check the posted schedule at the Kauneonga Lake Community Park Kiosk or call Gary @ 845-796-6975.

Find out what can be done in-between or where the beautification is in progress. Be a part of it! "



Sunflower Spectacular! Plant sunflowers everywhere!

JOIN BETHEL FIRST IN CELEBRATING BETHEL 'S BICENTENNIAL

Pick up FREE seeds while supplies last!!!

At: Duggan School Community Pride Day

On: Saturday, May 16, 2009 from 10-2

Stop by Bethel 's Farmers Market at Kauneonga Lake every Friday starting July 10 and bring pictures of your sunflowers. You will be entered in a random drawing for a prize to be drawn on Sept. 1st at Bethel First Monthly Meeting. (Bethel First meets 7 pm on 1st Tues. of every month at the Bethel Senior Center . All welcome. For more info, contact Maria 583-6540. Seeds donated by Butterfly Botanicals, Bloomingburg , NY



Chicken Barbecue

A mouth-watering Chicken Barbecue will be held Saturday, June 6th from 4:00 – 7 PM in Faith Hall at the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Rt. 17 B in White Lake , across from Bethel Medical Center . Donations are $9 for ½ chicken and $7 for ¼ chicken meal. Take-outs are available. Come enjoy good food and good friends. For advance tickets, call 583-7082. Visit our web site at www.whitelakechurch.com



Hunting & Fishing License Fee Increase

New prices will take effect on August 17th for the sale of the 2009/2010 Licenses.



Lifetime license prices will go up on Oct 1st. Customers between the ages of 65 through 69 will benefit the most from a lifetime license. See below:



Senior Lifetime before October 1st = $50 and can be purchased at age 65-69. Includes Small game, Big game, turkey, fishing and a waived application fee for Deer Management Permits (DMPs).



Senior Lifetime after October 1st: $65. Include Small game, Big game, turkey and fishing. NO WAIVED DMP FEE.



If you do not buy a lifetime license the annual fee for those age ranged from 65-69 will be as follows:



Fishing Only = $29

Sportsman = $47 (small game, big game, fishing)

DMP = $10

Turkey = $10



It is a good time to take advantage for these age-ranged customers especially. Anyone would benefit to purchase a lifetime at this time as well. Additionally, there is a new license type. It's a Trapper Super Sportsman and it includes Sm/Big Game, Trapping, Muzzleloading, Fishing and Turkey Permits. Stop by the office for the new fee schedule effective August 17th for the 2009/2010 license year. ALL LICENSE FEES WILL BE GOING UP NO AUGUST 17TH



Sullivan County Community Chorus

Sullivan County Community Chorus presents Mendelssohn's ELIJAH with orchestra and professional soloists, Sunday, May 10th at 3 PM at Monticello High School . Tickets: Adults $10, Seniors $8 and Students free.
For more information call 845-794-7869.



Annual Family Amusement Park Bus Trip

Thursday, August 6th to Lake Compounce in Bristol , CT. Coach bus to this family park that includes water rides and a few coasters. Cost: To be announced



7th Duggan School Community Pride Day

The 7th Duggan School Community Pride Day will be held on Saturday, May 16th from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Duggan Elementary School, 3460 Route 55, White Lake. This event will be held rain or shine. The event is sponsored by the Duggan PTO. Join us at 10 AM for the BIRDS OF PREY presentation by the Delaware Valley Raptors. Come view the wonderful works of art by the Duggan Elementary students displayed in the halls for the Duggan Student Art Show. Stock up on summer reading at the Scholastic Buy One Get One Free Book Fair. The event includes craft activities, discovery stations and a community kickball game. Many organizations will be present with information, raffles or food items to purchase. Besides the food items being offered by community organizations, the Duggan PTO will have hot dogs, chips and soda available for purchase. Additionally, a major part of Community Pride Day is the Duggan Fifth Grade Class’ Community Yard Sale with the proceeds of the sale going towards their class trip. Also, bringing the community together to continue the celebration of the Town of Bethel ’s 200th Birthday is the Bicentennial Pie Baking Contest which begins at 1 PM (for entry forms and rules visit the Town Hall. Show your community pride as a beloved building opens its doors to share the treasures we have in our community with everyone.



Soccer Clinic

A Soccer Clinic will be held for young people ages 8-16 featuring Coach Dan Spanjer of Chapel Field. The clinic will be held May 22nd from 6-8:30 PM and May 23rd from 9:00 – 12:00 PM. Participants will meet at Faith Hall Gym, Rt. 17 B in White Lake across from Bethel Medical Center before going to the soccer field at White Lake Camp. The $20 registration fee includes a T-shirt, award, and lunch on Saturday. If you wish to be guaranteed a T-shirt, please register by May 1st. For more information, call 845-583-7082 or visit www.whitelakechurch.com



Message from the Bethel Animal Control Officer

Proper identification helps ensure that your dog can make its way home in the case of theft, loss, or other emergency situations. Using more than one method of identification can increase your dog's chances of being returned.

Tag - Tags are one of the easiest and cheapest methods of identification. When the dog is found, the owner can be contacted directly and quickly, often avoiding a trip to the shelter. Be sure to include your name, address, and phone number on the tag. By adding your cell phone number as well, you can even be reached if you are out of the house when the dog is found. If you travel or move, be sure to update the information or use temporary tags.

The downside? Tags can come off or be removed by someone with ill intentions. That is why it is important to consider alternate forms of doggy ID.

Where to buy tags: local pet store or veterinarian. Also, when you receive your dog license from the State of New York you receive a unique I.D. # that is registered with the State and can be looked up by any Animal Control Officer to find the registered owner.

Tattoo - Because the needle does not reach the nerve endings of the dog's skin, the tattooing procedure is not painful and takes only two to three minutes. On average, the procedure runs about $10, with discounts for multiple pets. Select a unique number and register your contact information with a tattoo registry, such as National Dog Registry. It is not advisable to tattoo your phone number or address, because that could change. With a registry, you can easily update this information. An added benefit: it is against the law for research facilities to use a tattooed animal in experimentation. This helps to protect your dog from possible theft for use in a lab.

The downside? It is possible for someone to alter or remove a tattoo. To prevent this, do not place the tattoo on the lip or ear, because ears can be cut off and lips can be clipped. Instead, tattoos are frequently applied to the inner leg or stomach.

Where to get a tattoo: veterinarian or through a dog club or other organization

Microchip - Microchips are inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades with a large needle and can then be read with the proper scanner. The procedure is safe and relatively inexpensive, running between $20 and $60. Microchips must be registered with your current contact information, and this registration should be updated if you move. Unlike tattoos, it is hard to remove or alter a microchip.

The downside? To be detected, a compatible scanner must be used. Before implanting a chip, contact your local shelter or animal control agency to ensure they can read the type of chip you will implant. If you have already implanted an incompatible chip, contact the chip manufacturer and ask them to provide a scanner to your local shelters and animal control agency.

Where to get a microchip: veterinarian or animal shelter.

GPS Collar - These collars can provide you with peace of mind, especially if you are working with an anxious or fearful dog that often goes into flight mode. The device allows you to find out where your dog is at any given moment. If your dog runs away, you don't need to wonder where he went; you can just pop onto the computer! Some devices provide instant notification when your dog goes outside the area you specify. The Global Pet Finder collar even lets you know when conditions outside become too hot or cold.

The downside? Like tags, GPS collars can come off or be removed. Consider using the collar in combination with another form of identification to ensure your pet is safe!

Where to get a GPS collar: local pet store

Local Requirements - A license is required in most cities and counties. Your dog should always wear the license tag along with an ID tag. If your dog is picked up by a police or animal control officer, they can contact you directly, skipping a trip to the shelter. If your dog does end up in the shelter, the staff will know how to contact you. Also, many shelters will extend the time they will hold onto your dog, waiting for you to pick him up, as well as provide emergency medical treatment if required.

The downside? None, but since your dog may be end up outside your county or city, it's a good to utilize another method of identification as well.

Where to license your dog: Contact your local animal control agency for information

Congratulations to The Club at Smallwood - The Best Kept Secret in Sullivan County



The Club at Smallwood has been awarded a Sullivan Renaissance grant for the fourth year in a row. Because of the work they had done in the past, they qualified for a Maintenance Grant of $750 to continue work on their previous projects. This will enable their landscaping committee to do additional plantings and to repair the stone wall. The committee's hard work has paid off with continued confidence from Sullivan Renaissance. Drive by and wave as we work this summer.



The Club offers a crystal clear swimming pool with lifeguard, BBQ's and parties. Other activities are Live Entertainment, Dancing, Movies, Trips, Friday Pool Nights, Book Club, Arts & Crafts, Water Aerobics, Cards, Games and Camera Club. Special: new member rate available. For membership information please call 583-4939.



Bubba’s BBQ

Re-opened for the 2009 season on April 19th!



The Fat Lady Cafe

The Fat Lady Café is opening May 8th at 5:30 P.M. for the entire season. Mother's Day All Mothers two entrees for the price of one. This season Saturday mornings 11:30 storytelling for young children upstairs in the playroom. Sunday mornings art for children. New Health Juice Bar opening featuring fresh juices and smoothies.



Veterans Memorial Service

Veterans Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Town of Bethel Veterans Park, ( Town Square ), Kauneonga Lake on Memorial Day, May 25th. All are welcome.



News from Smallwood Mongaup Valley Fire Dept.



The Smallwood Mongaup Valley Fire Department will be holding several events during the spring and summer. Their first event will be the second annual ATV Run to be held on June 6th. Open house (complete with free hot dogs, beer, soda, and entertainment) and 8th annual 5K Run/Walk will be on July 5th. There will also be softball games held at Collins Park in Mongaup Valley . This year, they will be hosting 4 tournaments that will bring teens from all over the country. These will be held June 12th -14th, June 26th - 28th, July 24th - 26th, and August 7th - 9th . Visit them on their website at www.smallwoodfd.org



Bethelites Meeting

Last meeting for the season, May 21st 6:30 at Sr. Center . No meeting until September.



New Bethel Transfer Station Regulations

Effective Immediately:

Trash Bag Fees: Up to 30 gallon bag or can $2.50 or one coupon

Any Bag or Container larger than 30 gallons: $5.00 or two coupons



Coupons can be purchased in increments of 15 = $30.00 or 30 = $60.00

The price has not gone up only what we are charging you for oversized bags.

The fee has always been for 30 gallon size.



Sullivan County Tire Amnesty – to be announced when approved the

Sullivan County Legislature



Clean-Up Day



Over 816 cars and trucks attended the annual clean-up day on May 2nd. The exact tonnage is not available but I am sure we received at least 80 tons of waste! There were over 200 TVs properly disposed of. Over 30 bags of unsightly garbage was picked up by volunteers the week of April 25th from our town roadways.



Kenoza Lake Methodist Church Chicken BBQ

The Kenoza Lake United Methodist Church WILL NOT be holding their annual check barbeque at the Kenoza Lake Fire House this May. L



Bethel Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, May 24th 7 a.m. – Noon at the Kauneonga Lake Firehouse. O.J., pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, tea and milk. $7.00 Adults; $5.00 kids.



SC Real Property Tax Auction

Sullivan County will hold its annual property tax auction sometime in June. For a list of properties visit the County on the web at www.co.sullivan.ny.us or www.nysauctions.com or by calling 794-3000 ext. 3242. Auction books are also available at the Town Hall and Government Center sometime in May.



Trips For The Bethel-Smallwood Senior Club



The Bethel Smallwood Senior Club invites you to join us on our trips.



Wednesday, May 20 to Ehrhardt’s, Hawley , PA. Cost $35.00

Wednesday, July 15 to Blackhead Mountain Lodge, Round Top, NY. Cost $35.00

Thursday, August 20 to Platzl Brauhaus, Pamona , NY . Cost $36.00

Thursday, December 3 to View Mont Mall, Dixson City , PA



These trips are open for all Bethel Seniors. We must first allow the Bethel Seniors to sign up. Most times we have room left on the bus, so we invite everyone to join us and enjoy the trip. Please sign up for the May 20 and July 15 trips now. Reservations for the trips can be made by contacting Ann Lubniewski at 583-6347, Manny Safer 583-7971 or Pat Canavan 583-7539.



Racino dates are:

May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12, and December 10. Reservations for Racino can be made with Ann Lubniewski 583-6347



Club meetings are the first Wednesday of the month. Our dues are $2.00 per year. Play days and other trips are planned during the year. Come and join us.



Tips to Keep Bear Away


According to a national study of the more than 500 people injured by bears between 1960 and 1980 in North America , 90 percent of the cases were the result of bears conditioned to people's food and habituation to human beings. Based on studies at national parks, there is conclusive evidence that improved sanitation and no-feeding regulations reduce injuries resulting from human-bear encounters. Should you encounter an aggressive bear in the woods away from houses and humans remember this: Black bear aggression is most often the result of a human threatening a bear, its cubs, or a nearby food source, and the best reaction is to reduce that threatening appearance by leaving the area in a quiet, calm manner.

Keep your distance. If a bear shows up in your back yard, stay calm. Shout at it as you would to chase away an unwanted dog. Don't approach it. If the bear won't leave, call the nearest police department for assistance.

Eliminate temptation. Bears that visit your area are often drawn there. Neighbors need to work together to reduce an area's appeal to bears. Promptly report road-killed deer to ensure their quick removal. Ask local businesses to keep Dumpsters closed and bear-proofed (chained or locked shut).

Check, please! If your dog is barking or your cat is clawing at the door to get in, try to determine what has alarmed your pet. But do it cautiously, using outside lights to full advantage and from a safe position, such as a porch or an upstairs window. All unrecognizable outside noises and disturbances should be checked, but don't do it on foot with a flashlight. Black bears blend in too well with nighttime surroundings, providing the chance for a close encounter.

Discontinue feeding suet or bird seed to birds for the entire summer. Don't feed pets outside. Even empty dishes have enough residual odor to attract a bear.

Don't leave garbage outside houses or garages. Grease, fat, bacon and other meats are extremely attractive to bears. These items should be disposed of in sealed containers. Clean garbage cans and other refuse containers with ammonia, bleach or Lysol. Ammonia works great and is cheap. A compost pile also attracts bears.

At camping areas, empty garbage dumpsters after dinner to decrease the chance of attracting bears. Construction of a garbage storage facility may be necessary if dump facilities aren't open daily.

After cooking, turn the grill on high for several minutes to kill the smell of food.

DEC has posted information about black bears at: www.dec.state.ny.us



Here’s What’s Happening at Consumer and Financial Education

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County



HeatSmart NY

Classes are two hour workshops that provide energy and financial information to families faced with higher energy costs. These classes are free and open to the public. For further information and to register, call Linda at 292-5250. Here are May’s classes:



Making Ends Meet-May 6th at 5:00-7:00 at CCE

This workshop provides information on developing and using a household spending plan. We also explore ways to maximize resources and reduce energy use. Participants will receive a free money management kit.



Save Energy, Save Dollars-May 27th at 5:00-7:00 at CCE

Learn about low-cost and no-cost ways to save energy and reduce your energy bills. Also learn about programs that can help you afford energy-efficiency improvements with subsides, low-interest loans or free services to qualifying households. There will be free energy-saving materials to be provided to all participants.



First Time Home Buyer’s Club Spring Workshops start May 12th

This 6 class series is offered free to local area residents. It helps participants explore the home buying process and it offers an opportunity to qualify for a $7,500 grant that will apply to the purchase of your new home. For more information and to register call Sean Welsh at 292-5250 ext 127.



Family Budget Education Program

Having a hard time making ends meet? This program will help you take control of your finances. If the program suits your needs a trained budget volunteer will work with you on a one-to-one basis. This program is free and open to the public. Please call Sean Welsh at 292-5250 ext 127, for more information.



Balancing Your Check Book & Electronic Banking Workshop–May 19th at 6:00

Fee $5.00- This class will cover maintaining a check registry and paying bills. You will also learn how to navigate electronic banking and open an account.





School Budget Vote May 19th



If you are not registered to vote in your school district you can call your school district for information on how to register. Monticello District Residents can register with the secretary at all school locations from May 5th – 15th. There is one vacancy on the Monticello School Board with a total of three seats up for re-election.



Bethel residents in the Monticello School District vote at the Duggan School - 794-7702

Bethel residents in the Sullivan-West District vote at the Jeffersonville School on Schoolhouse Rd - 887-5300

Bethel residents in the Liberty School District vote at the Liberty High School gym - 292-6990



Bethel Website of the Month: www.bestplace2move.com



Websites of the Month: http://i.usatoday.net/tech/graphics/iss_timeline/flash.htm



Sullivan County Cornell Cooperative Extension: www.sullivancce.org

Consumer Information; Debit Management; Home buying, etc.



CFL Light bulbs - Recycling sites To find a local site, go to www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling or www.Earth911.org



Cell Phone Contract Escape - Trapped in a cell phone contract by high termination fees ? Consider transferringit at www.celltradeusa.com or www.cellswapper.com You pay about $20; the person who adopts your phone gets a short contract without an activation fee.



Caring for Your Parents – To learn more, go to www.aarp.org/caregiving and www.wgbh.org



From the Desk of

Rita Sheehan

Bethel Town Clerk

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Smallwood in the early 40's


Author:
William H. Wheatley (joyful and happy)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 12:53:40 07/12/08 Sat

My parents had a camp in Smallwood on East Thompson Place, in the late 30's and early 40's. I knew many people in the area, and worked on a farm near Bethel belonging to Emerson Lilly in 1942 and 1943 (summers). I would enjoy hearing from anyone who might remember our family.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Smallwood in the early 40's


Author:
Peggy Schechter
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:39:41 05/06/09 Wed

>My parents had a camp in Smallwood on East Thompson
>Place, in the late 30's and early 40's. I knew many
>people in the area, and worked on a farm near Bethel
>belonging to Emerson Lilly in 1942 and 1943 (summers).
> I would enjoy hearing from anyone who might remember
>our family.


Do you remember Barney Schechter and his wife Minnie and daughters Fannie (Fay) and Eva. They lived in White Lake next door to the woodstock property on RT 17B. They owned the Pine Shadow Guest House. We are looking for anyone who may remember them and possibly have photos.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Does anyone remember...


Author:
Jody
[Edit]

Date Posted: 17:26:36 09/22/08 Mon

Does anyone remember Kate Gilman or
Nellie and Willie Durler from Smallwood
in the 1930's and 40's?

My Aunt Nellie had a house on Orange Avenue
and I believe my Aunt Kate's house was on
Lafayette...

I'd appreciate it.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Does anyone remember...


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 05:02:02 09/23/08 Tue

Kate's house was indeed on Layfayette Ave. I can see her in my mind's eye visiting with Vera Van Fredenburg, Bill Otto and the old gang down at the Boat Club like it was yesterday. I remember the Durlers too. Kate was a sweet Lady. Lindy

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> [> Subject: Re: Does anyone remember...


Author:
Peggy Schechter
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:37:13 05/06/09 Wed

>Kate's house was indeed on Layfayette Ave. I can see
>her in my mind's eye visiting with Vera Van
>Fredenburg, Bill Otto and the old gang down at the
>Boat Club like it was yesterday. I remember the
>Durlers too. Kate was a sweet Lady. Lindy


Do you remember Barney Schechter and his wife Minnie and daughters Fannie (Fay) and Eva. They lived on Rt 17B next door to the Woodstock property in the 30's and 40's. They owned the Pine Shadow Guesthouse. We are looking for anyone who may have remembered them and may have photos.

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[> Subject: Re: Does anyone remember...


Author:
Peggy Schechter
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:34:24 05/06/09 Wed

>Does anyone remember Kate Gilman or
>Nellie and Willie Durler from Smallwood
>in the 1930's and 40's?
>
>My Aunt Nellie had a house on Orange Avenue
>and I believe my Aunt Kate's house was on
>Lafayette...
>
>I'd appreciate it.



Since your Aunt Kate live in sullivan county in the 30's and 40's I wondered if you have any information about Barney Schecter and his wife Minnie and daughters Fannie (Fay) and Eva. Barney owned Pine Shadow guest house on Rt 17 in White lake. (next door to the Woodstock property) We are looking for anyone who may remember him.

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Subject: We are looking for Sales Persons: Anyone looking for a job!!! In office / work from home, Sales Job


Author:
Frank DiCostanzo (Offering employment)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 10:21:20 05/05/09 Tue

Sales Career Seminar – Job Fair
On Monday, May 18, 2009, at 6 pm, at Mongaup Technologies, Inc. offices;


If you can't wait, training is done daily online.
Visit our sales career center "www.salesworkathome.com"
This has all information and tools on becoming a strong salesperson


located at; 10 Lake St.,
Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749,

(also will be live broad casted over the internet)

there will be a sales career seminar open for anyone looking for immediate employment in Sales.

We are offering a unique opportunity to break into a sales career selling commercial products to Commercial accounts, 4 different product lines, 70 products total used for Computer Maintenance and Institutional Cleaning.

We will be hiring 20 persons to start immediately working from our office and we are also offering an opportunity for anyone who wishes to work from home.

Don’t miss out on a career opportunity that will afford you the chance to make incredible money and enjoy what you do.

Appointments and information call Frank 845-583-0217

Or, OK! To just show up!


Frank DiCostanzo | CEO
10 Lake St Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749
Phone: 845-583-0217 | Fax: 845-583-0312
frankd@mongauptechnologies.com
www.mongauptechnologies.com
www.salesworkathome.com

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Subject: A Glimpse of WOODSTOCK'S 40th Anniversary Retrospective


Author:
Joanne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 09:29:46 04/18/09 Sat

The 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Festival was one the greatest events of the 20th century, and now for the first time in 40 years, the story of the largest and most significant “be-in” gatherings of the 1960’s is being told through the memories, experiences and personal photos of those who "were" there. Woodstock Peace Music & Memories invites you to journey back to Yasgur’s Farm to revisit this life-changing weekend with our contributors. Share in their excitement and plans, their travels, anticipation, favorite performances and most memorable moments, as well as the many hardships they faced and how they endured through circumstance.

With over 100 contributors, this book has a natural look and scrapbook-of-memories character, and celebrates the 40th anniversary of this legendary event with a mix of hundreds of color, sepia-tone and black and white photos; interviews with performers including Carlos Santana and Mountain, as well as attendees, a special section of Woodstock collectibles with current values, and a foreword written by Woodstock co-organizer Artie Kornfeld and epilogue by Woodstock MC Wavy Gravy.

We've just launched a new website for the book and have a few ads up and running on YouTube, I'd like to invite you to stop by when you get a chance, and get a taste of what's to come.

Woodstock Peace: http://www.woodstockpeace.com
And the ads are at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgMK-zkzquA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFFIBq2HQdU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF3URgII54k&feature=related

Enjoy!

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Subject: Rita's Bethel News Letter Link


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 06:54:20 04/06/09 Mon

http://www.town.bethel.ny.us/newsletters/april09.htm

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Subject: April Bethel Newsletter


Author:
Bethel Town Clerk
[Edit]

Date Posted: 19:28:27 04/05/09 Sun

Link for the April Bethel Newsletter
www.town.bethel.ny.us/newsletters/april09.htm

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Subject: FFA Academy in Monticello Central School District - Seeking Community Support


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:36:45 03/27/09 Fri

Local support is sought to introduce and implement an Agricultural Education program within our district. Please do keep in mind that there is funding available through State and other viable resources, as well as an FFA program available at the elementary level.

More Info at http://www.ffa.org

The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

FFA is not a "club." It is one of three integral components of an agricultural education program: classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience and life skills.

Organizational Name: National FFA Organization;
Changed in 1988 from Future Farmers of America to reflect the expanding career field of Agricultural Education.

Founded: 1928

Current Membership: 507,763

Number of Chapters: 7,439 in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands

Largest Annual Event: National FFA Convention
2008 Attendance: 54,731

The National FFA Organization operates under a Federal Charter granted by the 81st Congress of the United States, and is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for the FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs.

The FFA motto gives members twelve short words to live by as they experience the opportunities in the organization. Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.

To accomplish its mission, FFA:

* Develops competent and assertive agricultural leadership.
* Increases awareness of the global and technological importance of agriculture and its contribution to our well-being.
* Strengthens the confidence of agriculture students in themselves and their work.
* Promotes the intelligent choice and establishment of an agricultural career.
* Encourages achievement in supervised agricultural experience programs.
* Encourages wise management of economic, environmental and human resources of the community.
* Develops interpersonal skills in teamwork, communications, human relations and social interaction.
* Builds character and promotes citizenship, volunteerism and patriotism.
* Promotes cooperation and cooperative attitudes among all people.
* Promotes healthy lifestyles.
* Encourages excellence in scholarship

FFA Creed:

I believe in the future of agriculture; with a faith born not of words but of deeds - achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturists; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years.

I believe that to live and work on a good farm or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement I can not deny.

I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others. I believe in my own ability to work efficiently and think clearly with such knowledge and skill as I can secure and in the ability of progressive agriculturalists to serve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil.

I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargaining; in the life abundant and enough honest wealth to help make it so-for others as well as myself; in less need for charity and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me.

I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task.

The FFA creed was written by Erwin Milton "E.M." Tiffany of Wisconsin, and adopted at the 3rd National Convention of the FFA. It was revised at the 38th Convention and the 63rd Convention. It is recited by new members to the organization, to reflect their growing belief in agriculture and agricultural education it also must be memorized and recited to earn the Greenhand Degree.

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Subject: Bethel on Facebook & other info


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 03:52:48 03/27/09 Fri

Bethel on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1080794875&ref=name#/group.php?gid=62436216959&ref=mf

The Town Board meeting last night was quite nostalgic with our Board members dressed in the era of our forefathers. We have such a creative Town Clerk and much appreciation goes to her for the activism and long hours she has put into this bicentennial!

I am excited about and highly recommend patronizing 'Bethel Motor Speedway' this season - they are great 'community' people with family friendly minds. Stay tuned for some upcoming info from them for youth races in our area! YAY!

I would like to hear suggestions for older Youth activities in our area. I will bring these suggestions to the board at the next meeting April 21st - public participation at these meetings is HIGHLY encouraged - young adults older interested in making a difference in our community let your voices be heard!

Email this poster or contact the Town of Bethel with comments and suggestions 583-4350

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Subject: Transgender Dignity Youtube


Author:
Leanne Shields
[Edit]

Date Posted: 12:56:00 03/17/09 Tue

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq6gfvJONSU

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Subject: Bethel


Author:
Lindy
[Edit]

Date Posted: 13:19:13 03/12/09 Thu

ALT=Bethel Bi Centennial Poster"

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Subject: Bicentennial Kick-Off


Author:
Rita Sheehan
[Edit]

Date Posted: 10:29:01 03/10/09 Tue

Live Performance of the Living History of Bethel House of God a pre-Victorian tableau of a resplendent Catskills Haven. A re-enactment of several historical town events with music and song. In addition, the 4th and 5th graders will be presenting the hotel era. Bethel’s Bicentennial kick-off. March 28th 1 p.m. at the Dr. Duggan School in White Lake. Cake and refreshments will be served following. $8.00 adults; $4.00 seniors and students; under 13 free. For more information call 583-4350 ext. 11.

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Subject: "Disloyalty charges by Bethel Dems tossed" Dan Hust, SC Democrat 2/27/09


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:45:28 03/03/09 Tue

Applause to Dan Hust for staying on top of the Party issues in the Town of Bethel.

I ask our Town and Surrounding residents to please consider the following ‘googled’ information (which I happen to agree with), along with my personal convictions that follow:

“When we endorse candidates we are guided by our core principles and values and that is to make government work. We want to elect people that will be inclusive and have the desire to do so. Sullivan County has many fundamental problems that go above and beyond party politics and we must all put our political perspectives and philosophies aside. We have to all sit down and work together.”

“Critics say it is ok to support a candidate not backed by their party, but it should be done privately. Why does there have to be a dirty little secret? All this hypocrisy must end. People have a right to support the candidate they believe in, it does not make them a turncoat.”
Bill Liblick http://liblick.com/scdarticles/october31.htm

Kathleen Parker, Conservative Columnist, recently stated: "Anyone who dares express an opinion that runs counter to the party line will be silenced. That doesn't sound American to me...." She goes on to say "the result when people place a higher value on party loyalty rather than the loyalty to bedrock principles and find it necessary to label individuals with a different point of view as traitors show that we have moved beyond discourse and into the realm of placing all freedoms at risk."

I agree with the above statement, because most people lose their individualism when they join a particular political party. If you are a Democrat, you MUST side completely with the Democratic Party, or you will be scrutinized. If you are a Republican, you MUST side with the Republican Party or you will be scrutinized.

Party loyalty should not trump rational judgment. It's time to rise above party loyalty and do what our conscience tells us is best for our nation.

I used to think like some of you, hard line Republican, blinded by party loyalty. Wake up! The Bush/Cheney administration crapped on the American people for the last seven plus years, but many of you are so blinded by party loyalty that you can't (and won't) see the big picture.

My loyalty is not to the Republican Party or the Democratic Party, but to the United States of America. (AMEN!)

I leave you all with the following quote: "I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever, in religion, in philosophy, in politics, or in anything else, where I was capable of thinking for myself." ~ Thomas Jefferson

Posted on http://www.city-data.com/forum/elections/461956-party-loyalty-republicans-vote-republican-democrats.html by Marines4CommonSense

I did not like the history of the Republican Party thus I am a registered Democrat. HOWEVER - if I know that if a person on the Democratic Party does not belong in the seat he or she seeks (for reasons of immoral or illegal beliefs and/or acts for example) - they do not get my vote and the same goes for any Party candidate. Quite simply, if there is a better candidate of another Party and I vote for them, does this make me a disloyal Democrat? If so - I suppose maybe I should change parties, but I’m not going to.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: diverting focus from the task at hand is simply a diversion. Unless there was something illegal done here, I think the focus should return to what needs to be done and DO IT. Quit whining.
I am not a ‘party pusher’.

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Subject: Miss Southeast NY Pageant contestant - Bethel Local


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:03:49 02/26/09 Thu

Congratulations to Miss Jessica Parks, our 20 year old Bethel community resident, who has decided to fulfill a dream of competing in the first annual Miss Sullivan County & Miss Southeast NY Pageant to be held at the Villa Roma Resort in Callicoon on March 28. This is a preliminary competition to the Miss New York and Miss America Pageants. Some of you may know Jessica from her family at the Fiddlers Flea Market, the Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church or from the Monticello Greenhouse where she is currently employed. Each Miss contestant is required to raise a minimum goal of $100 for the Children's Miracle Network which is the official national platform of the Miss America Organization. Jessica is seeking community support and sponsorships. If you’d like to sponsor Jessica please contact her by email fireball@hvc.rr.com or by calling 845-583-6375


A Note from Jessica:

I'm getting ready to compete in the Miss America Miss Southern New York pageant. As a contestant, I need your help to raise money for Children's Miracle Network and the Miss America Scholarship Fund. Please help me reach my goal of $100.00 by clicking on the link below. Your donation will be considered a charitable donation for tax purposes and a receipt will be provided at the end of the year.

http://www.missamerica4kids.org/m.aspx?i=1124759A0F51D3518&e=94E73E451F

Once you have completed a secure on-line donation, your donation will be included in my fund raising total on my personal page. To help even further you can forward this message on to other friends and family to help me in my fund raising efforts. My personal page will track my results and provide a comparison to other contestants.

This year the Miss America Organization has teamed up with Children's Miracle Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising funds for children's hospitals. This new partnership gives each contestant the opportunity to raise awareness and funds for two great organizations ? Miss America Organization and Children's Miracle Network.

If you have any questions, please email me at fireball@hvc.rr.com

Thanks for all your support!
Jessica Parks

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Subject: Barney Schechter-looking for him


Author:
Paul Schechter
[Edit]

Date Posted: 22:51:35 02/24/09 Tue

I understand that my great uncle Barney Schechter owned a farm in the White Lake area in the 1920s-1930s. I am looking for anyone who has information about Barney, his farm, family etc. Any help would be appreciated.

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Subject: John Kearney


Author:
Gary (looking for John Kearney)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 11:42:22 02/09/09 Mon

if anyone knows of John let me know at
gsqualityplus@aol.com

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Subject: MOPS - Mothers of Preschoolers group


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 09:10:39 02/07/09 Sat

I am the Coordinator of our local MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) group in the Town of Bethel of Sullivan County, NY. I am submitting to you this information in preparation of an informational meeting for interested participants which will be held in the near future. Please review the following introduction to become a bit more familiar with this group, its purpose and the impact intended within our community.

MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS or MOPS for short is an open, accepting place where every mom is welcomed, challenged to reach her potential and recognize her influence with her family and her world.

MOPS is an international non-denominational faith based organization with its roots established as a small group in 1973.

MOPS says to a mother - here is a place you can come and belong. We’re going to make it a safe place and meet you right where you are in life. Belong here as long as you want, then belief can come whenever you are ready.

This MOPS group will be the first and only group in existence in the entire Sullivan County area. It will be proudly chartered by the Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church (MVUMC); Pastor Randolph (Randy) Yerkes; with meeting dates and activities to be announced at a later date. All members are invited and encouraged to bring their children to be a part of the MOPPETS group.

Some of the anticipated activities will include:
Picnics at the Town of Bethel Park
Discussion groups and/or talk therapy
Creative activities for both moms and children
Field trips (including participation in local parades – ie stroller march)
Participation in the Town of Bethel Youth activities
Fundraisers and many other opportunities/activities as they are presented

MOPPETS
While moms enjoy the meetings, their children will be lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program, which is designed to meet their needs with activities that encourage social growth and spiritual enrichment. Age-appropriate stories, songs, games, crafts and free play enhance their physical and creative development. Children will be divided into age groups as participation allows and the program grows. They will be cared for by qualified and carefully screened volunteers, who will provide children with a fun and safe environment. Child registration will be required for the MOPPETS program and a NYS Child Identification Program (CHIP) will be utilized to further enhance safety measures. This will be maintained regularly. Children are never far from their mothers. Similar and even combined activities will be encouraged often.
As Coordinator of this MOPS group, my intentions are to form an alliance with those who have the greatest impact on the mothers and children of our community. I believe that outreach begins from within and it is vital to our future as a whole. Thus this message is being forwarded to many other groups and services. It is my hope that these alliances will assist in reaching the full potential of parent/child/community relationships, which may ultimately increase participation in the youth activities of our area as well as present new ideas for activities for all groups which become involved in this mission. There is a huge potential for involvement of many to work collectively on these relationships and I intend to engage as much of the community as realistically possible.(ie - senior citizens, to participate in group discussions and the MOPPETS group, the CHIP program, DARE speakers, local educators, teen pregnancy counselors, local church organizations, etc etc - the possibilities for inclusion are virtually limitless)

I ask for your assistance and encourage you to share the existence of this group; electronically or otherwise; with the residents of our community and other organizations of interest. It is my pleasure to share with you this information and I look forward to your involvement, including suggestions and constructive criticism. I will contact you once again when the first meeting is being announced. Attached you will find the description of a MOPS group in the form of a web archive. More information can be found at http://www.mops.org I am available to answer any inquiries at your convenience.

Enjoy your day and remember “Better Moms Make A Better World.”

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Subject: OutReach - Federation for the Homeless


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:59:55 02/04/09 Wed

Upon learning of budget cuts at the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless in Monticello the people of the Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church sought the guidance of their Pastor Randy Yerkes. As the budget cuts had resulted in the discontinuation of Federation’s hot breakfast program, Pastor Yerkes suggested that the Church could provide and serve a hot breakfast once a week. Facing financial difficulties of their own, the Church nonetheless enthusiastically embraced this opportunity to serve.

The Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless greeted the offer with graciousness and thanksgiving. On Wednesday February 4, three church members and the pastor brought eggs, hard rolls and cheese to the Federation. The Federations’ cooks prepared the meals and the Church served the people.

Together with the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless, The Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church will be serving a hot breakfast every Wednesday at the Federations’ facilities in Monticello.

Pastor Yerkes said, “For a few dollars and a couple of hours of time anyone can make a difference.” He also encourages any other groups or organizations to consider providing breakfast on the remaining days. Pastor Yerkes can be reached at Randoyerkes@yahoo.com.

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Subject: Kitten for adoption in Bethel NY


Author:
Lindy
[Edit]

Date Posted: 05:40:36 02/04/09 Wed

Have a 4 month old Calico Kitten up for adoption. Kitten is litterbox trained. It is spayed with all shots as Per Doctor Agoston of Bethel NY. Affectionate little cat will make someone a wonderful pet. Please call 845 866 7655 with your inquiry. Thank You

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Subject: Stephenson/Behr


Author:
Cheryl Temple
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:11:52 02/14/08 Thu

Hello i use to have family living in jeffersonville on or near Behr Rd, my Uncle Hank Behr(Henry) was a farmwer he passed in 1986,hoping someone would know about the behr family.His Sister Mary Stephenson passed away in March 2,1999,Trying to locate some relatives,I would deeply appreciate any thin on them,if you know them please email
me.Thank You very Much

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Stephenson/Behr


Author:
bob sweeney
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:34:46 03/03/08 Mon

> My name is Bob.I own land on hurd rd.over the last couple of years I have got to know alot of people in the area your family lived in.I will inquire the name and if I get any feed back i will e-mail you.Bob

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> [> Subject: Re: Stephenson/Behr


Author:
Cheryl Temple
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:39:32 02/01/09 Sun

>> Hello Bob,That would be great if your able to fine anything on the behr family thanks

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Stephenson/Behr


Author:
Llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:31:55 02/02/09 Mon

see this page on Behr name http://www.townofbethel.com/gazetteer/gazetteer197.htm

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: My Letter to keep Duggan Open


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 15:08:55 01/31/09 Sat

Dear Honorable Legislators & Respected members/representatives of the NYS Education Dept.

Nothing hits home more closely in this financial time of crisis than that impact of which it has on our children. Here, locally in Sullivan County, we the parents of these children and residents within the Monticello Central School District are being presented with deadly solutions to the current state deficits and proposed budget cuts by the Superintendent of this school district; with specific regard to the closing of the Duggan Elementary school. This school is a residential and educational foundation of our community which offers fellowship as well as a primary contributing factor to business growth. In fact, the Town Of Bethel is reputed to be the fastest growing community in Sullivan County contributing more than 20% of the tax base to this school district. Duggan School is named as one of the NYSED's high performing / gap closing schools.

Please reference this article Commission: Cut mandates, consolidate small schools which can be seen at:

tegory=On%20Board%20Online%20Dec%2022%202008&refno=618>
http://www.nyssba.org/index.php?src=news&submenu=on_board&srctype=detail&cat
egory=On%20Board%20Online%20Dec%2022%202008&refno=618

and which states ".while promoting mandate relief, the report proposed a major new mandate - mandatory consolidation of school districts that have fewer than 1,000 students." Know that our district has well over 1000 students cumulatively.

Most of the district classrooms; primarily those schools in the Village of Monticello; can be described as over crowded and under served to say the least. This provided the district an opportunity to be engaged in the 'Contract for Excellence' with its primary purpose focused on Gov. Spitzers statement "Improving our children's performance must be our goal. And the way to do it is to inject greater accountability into the system - financial accountability, programmatic accountability, and performance accountability." This statement and the Contract for Excellence can be viewed at http://www.state.ny.us/governor/keydocs/0129071_speech.html More information on the Contract is available from the NYS Board of Regents information release at http://www.oms.nysed.gov/press/C4ERelease.htm , NYSUT http://www.nysut.org/cps/rde/xchg/nysut/hs.xsl/k12_11010.htm , NYSED http://www.emsc.nysed.gov/mgtserv/C4E/ and various other sites of interest.

I'm certain that closing this elementary school; which also houses several kindergarten classes and is part of the Easter Seals pre-K program; and sending these children to classrooms which are already stretching their borders is not what was intended by any focus on closing the educational gap. In fact, it is feared that many of these children will be lost in the cracks of the system.

An impact study has been requested to include several factors including the impact on this community and our children, the district's educational programs, budget concerns, transportation and class size, minimizing the impact on educational programs, extra-curricular and sports to name a few.
We would like to have some reassurance that this can be done instead of hearing the proverbial rhetoric that "there isn't enough time" or "that's not an option".

Understand that my entire family has been through the MCSD system beginning from the day it was formed. The problems in the area of the Village of Monticello have escalated beyond our imagination. Many of these problems have walked right through the front doors of the schools in our district and planted themselves in those classrooms. Though we are all proud of our education; we have many diverse backgrounds, some resulting with corporate law and even higher judicial degrees; we cannot ignore these issues for the next generation and others to follow. There is much negative publicity related to gang involvement, arrests for burglaries, drug possession/sales among the youth of Monticello. Student bathrooms remain locked in the high school as a form of prevention, etc. When the attempt has been made to address these issues which are present in our high school, our distinguished superintendent cries racism - though no reference or correlation has been made to the race of any subject.

Our pleas, alternative suggestions for re-organizing and/or cutting costs elsewhere etc. to the Superintendent appear to be falling on deaf ears whose hands are busy raising the guillotine blade. Please. help us with these issues so that we may also avoid the greater issues that will likely present themselves with the closing of this school.

More information is available by viewing:

http://www.riverreporter.com/issues/09-01-15/news-diggan.html

http://savedugganschool.org/

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Regarding the Sperintendents consideration of closing the Cornelius Duggan Elementary School


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 15:05:34 01/31/09 Sat

Really surprised nothing is on here about this...

Several sites have sprouted to air your views on the possible closing of the Duggan Elementary School. Please be sure to visit these:

Save Chase & Duggan Community Elementary Schools
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=753310488#/group.php?gid=51210225167&ref=mf

BUSS - http://www.savedugganschool.org

The emails to contact your legislators, the NYSED, etc. are...
bonacic@senate.state.ny.us
gunthea@assembly.state.ny.us
emscgen@mail.nysed.gov


and a couple of phone numbers

commissioner Mills office (518) 474-5844

District Superintendents office in Albany
(518)474-8076 (Raymond Kesper)

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Photos Wanted


Author:
Rita Sheehan
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:40:16 12/17/08 Wed

As part of the Town’s Bicentennial the Town Clerk is authoring an image book, Images of America: Bethel. The book is being published by Arcadia Publishing. Anyone who would like to submit a historical photo from the 1800s to the 1970s may do so by stopping by the Town Clerk’s Office by March 31, 2009. The photo will be scanned and immediately returned to you with no waiting. Original photos work the best and newspaper articles can not be accepted for the book. If are submitting electronic photos, please call first with specifications or the image can not be used. The photos will also be archived in the Town records for permanent preservation for future generations. If anyone would like to submit photos they can contact Rita at the Town Clerk’s Office at 583-4350 ext. 11.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: From the Desk of Rita Sheehan


Author:
llyyne
[Edit]

Date Posted: 00:23:55 12/17/08 Wed

Youth Board Meeting Cancellation

The Youth Board has cancelled their December 16th Meeting.



Bicentennial Commemorative Calendars

The Calendars have arrived and have been mailed to those who paid the shipping. Thank you again for all your support of this project. The calendar features a description with historical photos of each hamlet in our Town in addition to the historical dates listed throughout. Calendars are on sale at the Town Hall for $10.00 each. plus $2.00 shipping each if it needs to be mailed. We will also have them for sale next year at the Bethel Historical Museum , events throughout the year and possibly some local shops. This does not just make a great calendar but something to read and enjoy. Log on to the town website for a sample page. The calendar is our largest fundraiser and 100% of the proceeds will help support all Bicentennial events. Please make checks payable to Bethel Local Development Corporation (BLDC). This is the link for the order form: www.town.bethel.ny.us/Bicentennial/calendarorderform.pdf



Bicentennial Cook Books

The Best of Bethel Cook Books was a fundraising project for the United Methodist Churches in the Town of Bethel . Cost is $10.00. Thank you to all who wrote-in recipes. Cook books are available at the Town Hall or you can contact Mike at 583-5059 to place an order. Please make checks payable to UMC in Town of Bethel .



NYC Trip

There are several seats left for the New York City coach bus trip on December 27th. Adults and non-residents $20; $15 for 21 and under.

On your own for the day. Drop off at 50th and 8th Avenue . Leave Bethel at 7:45 a.m. Call Cathy at 583-8224 for more information.



United Methodist Church of MV

Beginning on Sunday, January 4, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. the Mongaup Valley United Methodist Church will re-open its doors for weekly services with Pastor Randolph “Randy” Yerkes leading worship. All are welcome.



CEAP (Citizens Energy Assistance Program)

The Citizens Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is funded by donations from Bethel citizens and others concerned for the welfare of our residents. There are no tax dollars funding this program. The purpose of the assistance is to supplement heating costs for Bethel residents whose HEAP application has been denied by Sullivan County for 2008-2009 assistance. Your HEAP denial letter must be attached to this application to be accepted into the program. Please attach copies of proof of income. The benefit amount may be limited due to the number of eligible applicants. Each applicant may be eligible for a one time assistance payment of $150.

For more information on CEAP call BLDC Chairman Daniel Sturm at (845) 583-4350 ext. 12 or BLDC Manager Susan Runnels at (845) 583-4939.



To apply for federally funded HEAP: Senior Citizens over 60 can apply at the Office for the Aging at the Sullivan County Government Center . All other applicants can apply at the Sullivan County Dept. of Family Services, 16 Community Lane , Liberty from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. and emergency applications until 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information about HEAP contact (845) 807-0142. Eligibility of the HEAP program is based on income and housing.





Do you know who these men are?







Delaware Valley Eagle Fest

The Delaware Valley Eagle Alliance will be holding EagleFest on January 17, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the School Auditorium, Tusten Theater, Firehouse, River Gallery, Town Hall and on the Deck on Main Street . Live bird demonstrations, observation sites, guest lectures, films, poster auction, eagle art, ice sculpting and more. For more information contact 252-6509 or visit them on the web at www.dveaglealliance.org or www.naturesartllc.com



Bethel-Smallwood Senior Club

Meetings are held 1st Wednesday monthly. Two play days a month. Open All Year. Dues are $2.00 at January meeting. Call Manny Safer at 583-7971. Nutrition site on every Monday, Wednesday excerise and Thursday art. Cancellations will be announced on radio station 102.1.



Last Minutes Shoppers – Shop Local!



The Country Bum’kin on Route 17B in Mongaup Valley filled with wonderful gifts, art and collectibles. Call Jenny at 583-7937 for holiday hours. Email: her at countrybumkin@hvc.rr.com Gift certificates are also available from your restaurants; Lighthouse, Bubba’s, Benji & Jakes, The Boat Club, The Fat Lady Café, The Front Porch, Friend’s Restaurant, River Edge Café, Blanches, and R & B Grille. How about a wellness check or a reflexology at Body, Mind & Spirit? Don’t forget those beauty salons, too!



Luminary Will Light the Roads of Bethel
Bethel First Announces Luminary Trivia



In keeping with the annual holiday tradition, Bethel First will join communities throughout Sullivan County to set out the luminary on Christmas Eve. The group has participated in this community effort for eight years; the trail has grown and in some areas has been able to meet up with other neighbors’ efforts on side roads throughout the town.



This year, Bethel First announces a Luminary Trivia Challenge! Neighbors and visitors are being asked to guess the number of luminary lights that it takes to extend from the Community Park in Kauneonga Lake , around the Veterans Memorial Triangle and to the Woodstock monument at the corner of Hurd and West Shore Roads. Contestants can email their guess to swhite4@hvc.rr.com Entries are due by 10:00am Christmas Eve morning. A special prize will be awarded to the person who comes closest to the correct number.



If you would like to volunteer to set the luminary, please join Bethel First at 1:30pm on Christmas Eve Day at the Indian Lake House in Kauneonga Lake . Volunteers are also needed to retrieve and store the luminary and will meet on December 26 at 11am at the Indian Lake House. For information on helping with the luminary please contact Al Frangipane at 845.583.6540.



Bethel First meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm at the Bethel Seniors Center in Kauneonga Lake . All are welcome.









Rita J. Sheehan, Town Clerk

Town of Bethel

P.O. Box 300

3454 Route 55 East

White Lake, NY 12786



Phone: (845) 583-4350 ext. 11

Fax: (845 583-4710



bethelclerk@hvc.rr.com

www.town.bethel.ny.us

P Please consider the environment before you print this e-mail.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Looking for Photo for Book


Author:
Brad
[Edit]

Date Posted: 12:29:20 12/07/08 Sun

Hi. I am in need of a couple of photos for an upcoming book. If anyone has an older photo of the outside of Vassmer's general store (early 70's) and one taken prior to it's closing I would appreciate it if you could contact me. The photos are needed for Woodstock:Peace Music and Memories being released by Krause publication in June 2009, for the 40th Anniversary of the Festival. The book is currently in design but you can check it out for pre-order at Amazon.com. If you have a photo of Art Vassmer (circa late 60's) which can be released with permisssion that would also be appreciated. Though the book is in final stages of production, if you do have any Woodstock-related images or memorabilia photos that might fit well into the book, please feel free to contact me as well. All submissions will receive full credit in the publication. Thanks and stay warm, Brad Littleproud bradlittleproud@hotmail.com

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: woodstock album photo


Author:
Cathy Lawrie (vibrant)
[Edit]

Date Posted: 11:04:54 11/19/08 Wed

I think I was the shyest one there that day among the hords of naked happy hippies and fully decked cycle-cops with jaws dropped by bouncing boobies. My friend and I swam, and, as we returned to shore I cut my foot. Stoping to check it out, snap, a moment in time, vibrations in my color,of the love and inspiration that actually was fifty thousand strong.
When I give myself the time to recall,the place in the center of my chest vibrates in gloden hues.
Anyone know the photographers name (refering to the picture of two people in the water in the center of the woodstock album.)
Cathy

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: A Message of Continued Hope


Author:
Joe Solmonese
[Edit]

Date Posted: 17:04:19 11/07/08 Fri

Dear Friends,

On Tuesday night, our community felt the emotions of electing a pro-equality President and expanding our numbers in Congress and state houses across the country, but the next morning our hearts were broken as the dust settled and it was clear we lost the marriage ballot measures in California, Florida and Arizona. I will certainly provide you with further insight in the coming days to how we effectively organized and motivated LGBT voters in elections throughout the country, but today, as we find ourselves in this agonizing intersection of victory and defeat, I felt it was important to try and give some perspective about our losses.

I've drafted the following op-ed that I wanted to share with you. I know that mere words aren't enough to provide the salve for our wounds that we desperately need but perhaps they will begin to shape a path for how we move forward. And for those of you who gave your time and resources, your sacrifices were not in vain. You've helped lay the foundation for the victory that will one day be ours. And I thank you.

You can't take this away from me: Proposition 8 broke our hearts, but it did not end our fight.

Like many in our movement, I found myself in Southern California last weekend. There, I had the opportunity to speak with a man who said that Proposition 8 completely changed the way he saw his own neighborhood. Every "Yes on 8" sign was a slap. For this man, for me, for the 18,000 couples who married in California, to LGBT people and the people who love us, its passage was worse than a slap in the face. It was nothing short of heartbreaking.

But it is not the end. Fifty-two percent of the voters of California voted to deny us our equality on Tuesday, but they did not vote our families or the power of our love out of existence; they did not vote us away.

As free and equal human beings, we were born with the right to equal families. The courts did not give us this right—they simply recognized it. And although California has ceased to grant us marriage licenses, our rights are not subject to anyone's approval. We will keep fighting for them. They are as real and as enduring as the love that moves us to form families in the first place. There are many roads to marriage equality, and no single roadblock will prevent us from ultimately getting there.

And yet there is no denying, as we pick ourselves up after losing this most recent, hard-fought battle, that we've been injured, many of us by neighbors who claim to respect us.

By the same token, we know that we are moving in the right direction. In 2000, California voters passed Proposition 22 by a margin of 61.4% to 38.6%. On Tuesday, fully 48% of Californians rejected Proposition 8. It wasn't enough, but it was a massive shift. Nationally, although two other anti-marriage ballot measures won, Connecticut defeated an effort to hold a constitutional convention ending marriage, New York's state legislature gained the seats necessary to consider a marriage law, and FMA architect Marilyn Musgrave lost her seat in Congress. We also elected a president who supports protecting the entire community from discrimination and who opposes discriminatory amendments.

Yet on Proposition 8 we lost at the ballot box, and I think that says something about this middle place where we find ourselves at this moment. In 2003, twelve states still had sodomy laws on the books, and only one state had civil unions. Four years ago, marriage was used to rile up a right-wing base, and we were branded as a bigger threat than terrorism. In 2008, most people know that we are not a threat. Proposition 8 did not result from a popular groundswell of opposition to our rights, but was the work of a small core of people who fought to get it on the ballot. The anti-LGBT message didn't rally people to the polls, but unfortunately when people got to the polls, too many of them had no problem with hurting us. Faced with an economy in turmoil and two wars, most Californians didn't choose the culture war. But faced with the question—brought to them by a small cadre of anti-LGBT hardliners – of whether our families should be treated differently from theirs, too many said yes.

But even before we do the hard work of deconstructing this campaign and readying for the future, it's clear to me that our continuing mandate is to show our neighbors who we are.

Justice Lewis Powell was the swing vote in Bowers, the case that upheld Georgia's sodomy law and that was reversed by Lawrence v. Texas five years ago. When Bowers was pending, Powell told one of his clerks "I don't believe I've ever met a homosexual." Ironically, that clerk was gay, and had never come out to the Justice. A decade later, Powell admitted his vote to uphold Georgia's sodomy law was a mistake.

Everything we've learned points to one simple fact: people who know us are more likely to support our equality.

In recent years, I've been delivering this positive message: tell your story. Share who you are. And in fact, as our families become more familiar, support for us increases. But make no mistake: I do not think we have to audition for equality. Rather, I believe that each and every one of us who has been hurt by this hateful ballot measure, and each and every one of us who is still fighting to be equal, has to confront the neighbors who hurt us. We have to say to the man with the Yes on 8 sign—you disrespected my humanity, and I am not giving you a pass. I am not giving you a pass for explaining that you tolerate me, while at the same time denying that my family has a right to exist. I do not give you permission to say you have me as a "gay friend" when you cast a vote against my family, and my rights.

Wherever you are, tell a neighbor what the California Supreme Court so wisely affirmed: that you are equal, you are human, and that being denied equality harms you materially. Although I, like our whole community, am shaken by Prop 8's passage, I am not yet ready to believe that anyone who knows us as human beings and understands what is at stake would consciously vote to harm us.

This is not over. In California, our legal rights have been lost, but our human rights endure, and we will continue to fight for them.

Warmly,

Joe Solmonese
President, Human Rights Campaign

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: A Message of Continued Hope


Author:
jamielyn
[Edit]

Date Posted: 19:58:30 11/11/08 Tue

>Dear Friends,
>
>On Tuesday night, our community felt the emotions of
>electing a pro-equality President and expanding our
>numbers in Congress and state houses across the
>country, but the next morning our hearts were broken
>as the dust settled and it was clear we lost the
>marriage ballot measures in California, Florida and
>Arizona. I will certainly provide you with further
>insight in the coming days to how we effectively
>organized and motivated LGBT voters in elections
>throughout the country, but today, as we find
>ourselves in this agonizing intersection of victory
>and defeat, I felt it was important to try and give
>some perspective about our losses.
>
>I've drafted the following op-ed that I wanted to
>share with you. I know that mere words aren't enough
>to provide the salve for our wounds that we
>desperately need but perhaps they will begin to shape
>a path for how we move forward. And for those of you
>who gave your time and resources, your sacrifices were
>not in vain. You've helped lay the foundation for the
>victory that will one day be ours. And I thank you.
>
>You can't take this away from me: Proposition 8 broke
>our hearts, but it did not end our fight.
>
>Like many in our movement, I found myself in Southern
>California last weekend. There, I had the opportunity
>to speak with a man who said that Proposition 8
>completely changed the way he saw his own
>neighborhood. Every "Yes on 8" sign was a slap. For
>this man, for me, for the 18,000 couples who married
>in California, to LGBT people and the people who love
>us, its passage was worse than a slap in the face. It
>was nothing short of heartbreaking.
>
>But it is not the end. Fifty-two percent of the voters
>of California voted to deny us our equality on
>Tuesday, but they did not vote our families or the
>power of our love out of existence; they did not vote
>us away.
>
>As free and equal human beings, we were born with the
>right to equal families. The courts did not give us
>this right—they simply recognized it. And although
>California has ceased to grant us marriage licenses,
>our rights are not subject to anyone's approval. We
>will keep fighting for them. They are as real and as
>enduring as the love that moves us to form families in
>the first place. There are many roads to marriage
>equality, and no single roadblock will prevent us from
>ultimately getting there.
>
>And yet there is no denying, as we pick ourselves up
>after losing this most recent, hard-fought battle,
>that we've been injured, many of us by neighbors who
>claim to respect us.
>
>By the same token, we know that we are moving in the
>right direction. In 2000, California voters passed
>Proposition 22 by a margin of 61.4% to 38.6%. On
>Tuesday, fully 48% of Californians rejected
>Proposition 8. It wasn't enough, but it was a massive
>shift. Nationally, although two other anti-marriage
>ballot measures won, Connecticut defeated an effort to
>hold a constitutional convention ending marriage, New
>York's state legislature gained the seats necessary to
>consider a marriage law, and FMA architect Marilyn
>Musgrave lost her seat in Congress. We also elected a
>president who supports protecting the entire community
>from discrimination and who opposes discriminatory
>amendments.
>
>Yet on Proposition 8 we lost at the ballot box, and I
>think that says something about this middle place
>where we find ourselves at this moment. In 2003,
>twelve states still had sodomy laws on the books, and
>only one state had civil unions. Four years ago,
>marriage was used to rile up a right-wing base, and we
>were branded as a bigger threat than terrorism. In
>2008, most people know that we are not a threat.
>Proposition 8 did not result from a popular
>groundswell of opposition to our rights, but was the
>work of a small core of people who fought to get it on
>the ballot. The anti-LGBT message didn't rally people
>to the polls, but unfortunately when people got to the
>polls, too many of them had no problem with hurting
>us. Faced with an economy in turmoil and two wars,
>most Californians didn't choose the culture war. But
>faced with the question—brought to them by a small
>cadre of anti-LGBT hardliners – of whether our
>families should be treated differently from theirs,
>too many said yes.
>
>But even before we do the hard work of deconstructing
>this campaign and readying for the future, it's clear
>to me that our continuing mandate is to show our
>neighbors who we are.
>
>Justice Lewis Powell was the swing vote in Bowers, the
>case that upheld Georgia's sodomy law and that was
>reversed by Lawrence v. Texas five years ago. When
>Bowers was pending, Powell told one of his clerks "I
>don't believe I've ever met a homosexual." Ironically,
>that clerk was gay, and had never come out to the
>Justice. A decade later, Powell admitted his vote to
>uphold Georgia's sodomy law was a mistake.
>
>Everything we've learned points to one simple fact:
>people who know us are more likely to support our
>equality.
>
>In recent years, I've been delivering this positive
>message: tell your story. Share who you are. And in
>fact, as our families become more familiar, support
>for us increases. But make no mistake: I do not think
>we have to audition for equality. Rather, I believe
>that each and every one of us who has been hurt by
>this hateful ballot measure, and each and every one of
>us who is still fighting to be equal, has to confront
>the neighbors who hurt us. We have to say to the man
>with the Yes on 8 sign—you disrespected my humanity,
>and I am not giving you a pass. I am not giving you a
>pass for explaining that you tolerate me, while at the
>same time denying that my family has a right to exist.
>I do not give you permission to say you have me as a
>"gay friend" when you cast a vote against my family,
>and my rights.
>
>Wherever you are, tell a neighbor what the California
>Supreme Court so wisely affirmed: that you are equal,
>you are human, and that being denied equality harms
>you materially. Although I, like our whole community,
>am shaken by Prop 8's passage, I am not yet ready to
>believe that anyone who knows us as human beings and
>understands what is at stake would consciously vote to
>harm us.
>
>This is not over. In California, our legal rights have
>been lost, but our human rights endure, and we will
>continue to fight for them.
>
>Warmly,
>
>Joe Solmonese
>President, Human Rights Campaign

Agreed. You, also have rights, the conservatives and religious fanatics do not run this country anymore. Hopefully, the new Admin will right the wrong of the religious zealots.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> [> Subject: Re: A Message of Continued Hope


Author:
jamielyn
[Edit]

Date Posted: 20:00:17 11/11/08 Tue

>>Dear Friends,
>>
>>On Tuesday night, our community felt the emotions of
>>electing a pro-equality President and expanding our
>>numbers in Congress and state houses across the
>>country, but the next morning our hearts were broken
>>as the dust settled and it was clear we lost the
>>marriage ballot measures in California, Florida and
>>Arizona. I will certainly provide you with further
>>insight in the coming days to how we effectively
>>organized and motivated LGBT voters in elections
>>throughout the country, but today, as we find
>>ourselves in this agonizing intersection of victory
>>and defeat, I felt it was important to try and give
>>some perspective about our losses.
>>
>>I've drafted the following op-ed that I wanted to
>>share with you. I know that mere words aren't enough
>>to provide the salve for our wounds that we
>>desperately need but perhaps they will begin to shape
>>a path for how we move forward. And for those of you
>>who gave your time and resources, your sacrifices were
>>not in vain. You've helped lay the foundation for the
>>victory that will one day be ours. And I thank you.
>>
>>You can't take this away from me: Proposition 8 broke
>>our hearts, but it did not end our fight.
>>
>>Like many in our movement, I found myself in Southern
>>California last weekend. There, I had the opportunity
>>to speak with a man who said that Proposition 8
>>completely changed the way he saw his own
>>neighborhood. Every "Yes on 8" sign was a slap. For
>>this man, for me, for the 18,000 couples who married
>>in California, to LGBT people and the people who love
>>us, its passage was worse than a slap in the face. It
>>was nothing short of heartbreaking.
>>
>>But it is not the end. Fifty-two percent of the voters
>>of California voted to deny us our equality on
>>Tuesday, but they did not vote our families or the
>>power of our love out of existence; they did not vote
>>us away.
>>
>>As free and equal human beings, we were born with the
>>right to equal families. The courts did not give us
>>this right—they simply recognized it. And although
>>California has ceased to grant us marriage licenses,
>>our rights are not subject to anyone's approval. We
>>will keep fighting for them. They are as real and as
>>enduring as the love that moves us to form families in
>>the first place. There are many roads to marriage
>>equality, and no single roadblock will prevent us from
>>ultimately getting there.
>>
>>And yet there is no denying, as we pick ourselves up
>>after losing this most recent, hard-fought battle,
>>that we've been injured, many of us by neighbors who
>>claim to respect us.
>>
>>By the same token, we know that we are moving in the
>>right direction. In 2000, California voters passed
>>Proposition 22 by a margin of 61.4% to 38.6%. On
>>Tuesday, fully 48% of Californians rejected
>>Proposition 8. It wasn't enough, but it was a massive
>>shift. Nationally, although two other anti-marriage
>>ballot measures won, Connecticut defeated an effort to
>>hold a constitutional convention ending marriage, New
>>York's state legislature gained the seats necessary to
>>consider a marriage law, and FMA architect Marilyn
>>Musgrave lost her seat in Congress. We also elected a
>>president who supports protecting the entire community
>>from discrimination and who opposes discriminatory
>>amendments.
>>
>>Yet on Proposition 8 we lost at the ballot box, and I
>>think that says something about this middle place
>>where we find ourselves at this moment. In 2003,
>>twelve states still had sodomy laws on the books, and
>>only one state had civil unions. Four years ago,
>>marriage was used to rile up a right-wing base, and we
>>were branded as a bigger threat than terrorism. In
>>2008, most people know that we are not a threat.
>>Proposition 8 did not result from a popular
>>groundswell of opposition to our rights, but was the
>>work of a small core of people who fought to get it on
>>the ballot. The anti-LGBT message didn't rally people
>>to the polls, but unfortunately when people got to the
>>polls, too many of them had no problem with hurting
>>us. Faced with an economy in turmoil and two wars,
>>most Californians didn't choose the culture war. But
>>faced with the question—brought to them by a small
>>cadre of anti-LGBT hardliners – of whether our
>>families should be treated differently from theirs,
>>too many said yes.
>>
>>But even before we do the hard work of deconstructing
>>this campaign and readying for the future, it's clear
>>to me that our continuing mandate is to show our
>>neighbors who we are.
>>
>>Justice Lewis Powell was the swing vote in Bowers, the
>>case that upheld Georgia's sodomy law and that was
>>reversed by Lawrence v. Texas five years ago. When
>>Bowers was pending, Powell told one of his clerks "I
>>don't believe I've ever met a homosexual." Ironically,
>>that clerk was gay, and had never come out to the
>>Justice. A decade later, Powell admitted his vote to
>>uphold Georgia's sodomy law was a mistake.
>>
>>Everything we've learned points to one simple fact:
>>people who know us are more likely to support our
>>equality.
>>
>>In recent years, I've been delivering this positive
>>message: tell your story. Share who you are. And in
>>fact, as our families become more familiar, support
>>for us increases. But make no mistake: I do not think
>>we have to audition for equality. Rather, I believe
>>that each and every one of us who has been hurt by
>>this hateful ballot measure, and each and every one of
>>us who is still fighting to be equal, has to confront
>>the neighbors who hurt us. We have to say to the man
>>with the Yes on 8 sign—you disrespected my humanity,
>>and I am not giving you a pass. I am not giving you a
>>pass for explaining that you tolerate me, while at the
>>same time denying that my family has a right to exist.
>>I do not give you permission to say you have me as a
>>"gay friend" when you cast a vote against my family,
>>and my rights.
>>
>>Wherever you are, tell a neighbor what the California
>>Supreme Court so wisely affirmed: that you are equal,
>>you are human, and that being denied equality harms
>>you materially. Although I, like our whole community,
>>am shaken by Prop 8's passage, I am not yet ready to
>>believe that anyone who knows us as human beings and
>>understands what is at stake would consciously vote to
>>harm us.
>>
>>This is not over. In California, our legal rights have
>>been lost, but our human rights endure, and we will
>>continue to fight for them.
>>
>>Warmly,
>>
>>Joe Solmonese
>>President, Human Rights Campaign
>
>Agreed. You, also have rights, the conservatives and
>religious fanatics do not run this country anymore.
>Hopefully, the new Admin will right the wrong of the
>religious zealots.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Nancy Lois Burrow


Author:
Jillian Doylend
[Edit]

Date Posted: 06:16:20 05/09/08 Fri

Does anyone in Bethel have information on Nancy Lois Burrow who was born there on 17 April 1831? I would like to know when her family arrived in Bethel (father John Burrow, mother Mary Holbeck and seven sisters and two brothers) and any other information relating to them. John was a farmer and originally came from Roundhay, Yorkshire, England. One of Nancy's brothers, John W Burrow, also farmed in the area.

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Horseshoe Lake House


Author:
Barbara C.
[Edit]

Date Posted: 04:23:23 04/30/02 Tue

As I was sorting through my grandmother's photo album I came across a post card of a grand looking house labeled "Horseshoe Lake House - M.B.Neuhaus, Prop.-Bethel, NY". The postcard was sent from my then 19 yr old uncle to his mother in NYC, postmarked August 1942. He writes - "Dear Mom, I am really having a swell time. Plenty of swimming and very good food."

I was wondering if anyone knew any information about this?
Thank you,
Barbara

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
[> Subject: Re: Horseshoe Lake House


Author:
Lindy
[Edit]

Date Posted: 18:33:16 04/30/02 Tue

On page 4 of "Glory Days" is a photo of the Horseshoe Lake House. It was owned and operated by the Neuhaus family for many years. It overlooked Horseshoe Lake which was also owned by them. One of the sons, George , was Town of Bethel Supervisor for many years and did many good works for the Town.The Hotel is gone now. I believe it was razed by the Kauneonga Fire Dept back in the late 70's. The family home that stood near it is still there.........

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: a Quick Invitation


Author:
Dan Auito (:))
[Edit]

Date Posted: 15:47:22 10/19/07 Fri

Just a quick invitation to the 45+ crowd. We’ve put together a forum that addresses all possible topics related to our demographic; it is purely informational with no advertising whatsoever. Please take a moment to consider www.theboomersforum.com

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Links


Author:
Web Administrator
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:16:15 10/08/07 Mon

Any links posted on the messageboard for public viewing will be reviewed by the Administrators and then will be posted on the "LINKS" page of this website.

Thank you

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: Good old Days


Author:
Greg Herzing
[Edit]

Date Posted: 09:34:33 09/28/07 Fri

Spent summers in Smallwood from the mid fifties to early 60s Lived On South Walnut by Mosquito Pond would love to hear from anyone from that era Im an Old Bronx boy used to play for the Smallwood Sluggers(mr Burns)Man I loved those Square dances

[ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Subject: New Discussion / Message Group


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 14:42:09 07/10/07 Tue

Please accept this invitation to view and join the newly formed Bethel NY yahoo group located at

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BethelNY

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Subject: Friendly atmosphere


Author:
Babette
[Edit]

Date Posted: 09:53:20 07/26/07 Thu

Good thing we have more friendly people than not in our town! The thing we should all remember here is to not blame an entire community for the negativity of one.

I love this town and have so many fond/fun/safe memories here from childhood to now and hope to have many more.

Remember the days of popping those tar blisters as you walked on the country roads in Smallwood, in the Valley or wherever you or a friend lived?

How about Mrs. McGlarney - my kindergarten bus driver - God love her! What a great lady!

The boat club days - boy what a dive compared to what we have being built in Kauneonga lakw now - BUT - wasn't it fun!

Mr & Mrs Shapiro - Stephen, Leah, Michael, Joel and SO many others who I have so many fond memories of - The best of times - that our kids can now build on.

It sucks to see so much negativity on this board - mainly coming from one direction and so many others on the defense because of it. Send this person a happy gram - ignore it and just move on. We all know the truth of things anyway and most have better things to share.- you want the spirit of woodstock that you all talk of to carry on - you should know how to better serve that purpose than what is on this board about it.

In the meanwhile - if you'd like to share some fonder thoughts would love to read about them here - or - go to Bethel NY yahoo group and share there!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BethelNY

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Subject: Bethel's own Richard Foschino


Author:
Lynn
[Edit]

Date Posted: 08:13:35 11/28/04 Sun



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