Mountaindale Renaissance Project Moving Foward

Despite some disappointing, even childish local politics, our 2011 Renaissance Project is slowly moving forward, despite the efforts of some to derail our plans to build a sculptural interpretation of a train just inside the "Rails to Trails" corridor entrance. Wish someone could explain to me why all the in fighting is necessary, why all the various assorted factions in town cannot set aside their differences, and pitch in for the common good of the community...isn't that what this is all supposed to be about? Is it all about moving our small hamlet forward, or is it about who gets their name in the paper, who gets credit for what? If a flowering plant needs dead headed, and you are walking by, why not JUST DO IT, instead of thinking to yourselves, "It's not MY FLOWER BOX!" If a flower box needs repaired and planted, why not step forward as a volunteer, instead of stirring turds and trying to claim ownership of it?

I'm new to Mountaindale, and want to spend my time and efforts trying to make it a better place in which to live, want to work with any one that will work with me in trying to bring new businesses and citizens to our community. I'm stubborn, but I am giving, and willing to WORK WITH ANY ONE and EVERYONE...so please, can we set aside old animosities and grudges, and get on with the truly important tasks at hand?

On to more positive news about the Renaissance Project.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greetings Walkers and Runners!

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

More news on the event itself in coming days!

Dear Friend,

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

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

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

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

The sponsorship categories are as follows:

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

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

Name

Address

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

Telephone

Contact person, if a business ___________________________

Donation amount enclosed:

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

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

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

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

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

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

The WFN Official Press Release:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About WFN: World Fishing Network

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

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

Wanted...a Few Old Salvagable Bungalows

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Raymon Elozua
raymon@elozua.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Would You Support an Organic Bread Bakery In Mountaindale?

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

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

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

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

May 22 Radiant Yoga Essential Oils Seminar HUGE SUCCESS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Girl Scouts Raising Funds For Quake Damaged Japan

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

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

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

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

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

Where will the funds go?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much,

Adam Weinreich
Assistant Manager
WJFF Radio Catskill

Participating Slow Foods Merchants

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

Hills Country Inn

FREE Sullivan County Energy Saving Workshop May 24, 2011

Residential Energy Saving Workshop

for Sullivan County

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

at Sullivan Cornell Cooperative Extension

64 Ferndale Loomis Rd, Liberty, NY 12764

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

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

Presentations from:

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

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

For questions, please contact:

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

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

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

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

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

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

The rules are simple...

1. Be a new voter for Roscoe.

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

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

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

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

The Reel description!

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

Posted by Fly Fishing in Roscoe at

Morningside Park-Fallsburg-Summer Employment Opportunity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Press Release...My Radiant Yoga

To Your Radiant Health

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

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

Yoga Students share their testimonials:

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

Jean Papendrea

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

Eileen Conway Whitaker


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

Judy Timke

Thursday Radiant Yoga Class Schedule

Gentle Yoga
Noon - 1:30 pm

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

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

Rondout Valley Organics

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

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

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

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

MAKE OUT TO

OLEH MACZAJ
331 DOWE ROAD
ELLENVILLE, NY 12428.

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

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

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

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

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

Mountaindale Odds and Ends

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

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

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

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

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