RIP-97.9 DATEBOOK Events calendar and announcements for the Great Northern Catskills region   Published: APRIL 11, 2013

Our Facebook page is a great resource for current news and happenings on the mountaintop. Check it out!

- Hunter elementary school has scheduled its Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten registration for Tuesday, April 9 and Wednesday, April 10. Your child must be 4 years old for Pre-K or 5 for Kindergarten on or before December 1, 2013 to be eligible. Only children not already enrolled in HTC Pre-K need to register for Kindergarten. Please call (518) 263-4256 extension 2000 to schedule an appointment.

- Effective Saturday, April 6, the Windham Community Food Pantry, located at Hope Restoration Church in Windham, will extend their service to include families in Hunter, Lexington, Prattsville and Tannersville, in addition to the current coverage areas of Ashland, Hensonville, Jewett, Maplecrest and Windham.

-  Tracing Your Roots in Greene County, The First Fifty Articles from the Greenville Mountain View Pioneer, is a collection of pieces written by Sylvia Hasenkopf for this community newspaper covering northern Greene and southern Albany counties. The book is $24.99 plus $3 shipping. Checks made payable to Sylvia Hasenkopf may be mailed to her at 155 Edison Timmerman Road, Cairo NY 12413. Call (518) 821-3852 or email Sylvia@NorthRiverResearch.com to ask questions or arrange for local pick up.

- Nominations for Senior Citizen of the Year and Outstanding Contribution by a Senior Citizen are being accepted until Monday, April 1. Achievements must be voluntary in nature and not part of paid employment. If you know someone who deserves this recognition, briefly describe his or her accomplishments and contributions in one page or less, include the nominee’s name, address and phone number, and send to Greene County Department for the Aging, Greene County Office Building, 411 Main Street, Catskill, NY 12414.

- The Friends of the Haines Falls Free Library are compiling a cookbook of recipes from our ethnically diverse mountaintop residents and former settlers, everything from appetizers to soups, entrees and desserts. If you have some favorite family recipes, please send them to Donna Bernard, Friends of the Haines Falls Free Library, PO Box 427, Tannersville, NY 12485. Don’t forget to include your name, address and phone number.

- The Hunter Foundation, Inc. is seeking contractors who may be interested in submitting bids for upcoming moderate rehabilitation projects throughout the mountain top area. Contractors must carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation. If interested contact Annie at (518) 589-5050 Extension 10 or email Anne@HunterFoundation.org.

- Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA is asking for donations of food to support their pet food bank. The shelter’s current need is for dry cat and dog food. Donations may be dropped off on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM, or on Wednesday or Sunday from 9 AM to noon. They are also accepting gift cards and cash donations to purchase food. The address is 125 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534. The Food Bank is open for those in need of assistance on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 4 PM. For more information call (518) 828-6044 or email RonPerez@cghs.org.

- Free tax counseling for the elderly, and low and moderate-income individuals is available in Delaware County until Friday, April 12. This service is available by appointment only. Call (607) 746-6333 to schedule an appointment for either Tuesday, April 2 or Friday, April 12 at the Delaware County Office for the Aging, 6 Court Street in Delhi. Home-bound assistance is also available by calling this number. Taxpayers are to bring copies of their 2011 tax returns, wage and earnings statements (W-2), pension/social security/railroad retirement statements (1099P, SSA-1099, RRB-W-2P, RRB-1099), interest/dividend/etc. statements (all 1099 forms, homeowners should bring 2012 county/city and school tax statements, if you sold your home in 2012 bring all supporting paperwork pertaining to the sale and 1099S if you received one, unemployment compensation statement, Child Care Provider Information, social security numbers for all dependents and social security cards, any and all information about income and expenses.

Friday 4/12

• Temple Israel of Catskill, located at 220 Spring Street in Catskill, will hold an open house on Friday, April 12 from 6-8 PM. Anyone attending is invited to stay for Sabbath services that start at 7:30 PM and the Oneg (potluck meal) that follows. Call (518) 943-5758 or email TempleIsraelOfCatskill@gmail.com to RSVP to ensure they will have enough refreshments.

Saturday 4/13

• The Mountain Top Historical Society will host a combination auto and foot tour to the most scenic waterfalls in our area on Saturday, April 13. Meet at the Mountain Top Historical Society’s campus parking lot in Haines Falls at 9 AM. There are several short climbs with a total distance of 3 miles. Please register by emailing Director@MTHS.org or call (518) 589-6657 with your name, phone number and total in your party. Membership is not required for hike participation. Notifications of changes, including weather cancellations, will be made up to the day of the hike. Call Bob at (518) 734-9701 or check the website at www.MTHS.org.
   
• Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana Dance Company, one of the nation’s premiere flamenco and Spanish dance companies, will perform at the Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street in Hunter on Saturday, April 13 at 8 PM. Advance tickets are $23, $18 for seniors and $7 for students. Tickets at the door $27, $21 for seniors and $7 for students. Call (518) 263-2063 for reservations.
   
• United Way of Columbia and Greene Counties will be collecting all forms of electronic waste on Saturday, April 13 starting at 10 AM. Bring your old computers, laptops, monitors, scanners, printers, servers, keyboards, televisions, microwaves, file cabinets, cell phones, space heaters, stereos, DVD and VCR players to Mr. e-Waste, 99 South 3rd Street, Loading Dock I in Hudson. Call Brad at (518) 755-2155 for a complete list of recyclables being accepted for this community fundraiser or to arrange pick-up of your company’s or organization’s electronic waste. All contributions to this event are tax deductible.
   
• A free concert to benefit the American Cancer Society/Relay for Life of Delaware County will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 7-10 PM at the Okun Theatre at SUNY Delhi, 2 Main Street in Delhi. The performers are Harmony Street, Peculiar Gentlemen, and Iridesense. Donations will be gratefully accepted.

Sunday 4/14

• Pioneer in American Art History will be presented by Barbara Novak at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, 218 Spring Street in Catskill on Sunday, April 14 at 2 PM. Admission is $9, $7 for members, and is on a first-come, first-served basis.
   
• An all-you-can-eat breakfast fundraiser to benefit the Greene County Youth Fair will be held on Sunday, April 14 from 8 AM to noon at the Bavarian Manor County Inn in Purling. The buffet includes juice, eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, pastry, toast and fruit. The cost is $8 per adult; $5 for children 12 and under, and free for kids under 2.

Monday 4/15

• The Hunter-Tannersville Booster Club will hold a golf tournament, rain or shine, on Saturday, June 8 at Colonial Country Club in Tannersville starting at 8:30 AM. Registration for this event begins on Monday, April 15. Proceeds will benefit the HTC student athletes. For more information call Bobbi at (518) 589-3923.
   
• The Great Northern Catskills Chamber of Commerce power networking lunch will be held at Bavarian Manor in Purling on Monday, April 15 from 12-2 PM. Advance registration is a must as seating is limited. Registration is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. Call (518) 943-4222 or email JFriedman@GreatNorthernCatskillsChamber.com to make reservations.
   
• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Monday, April 15 from 9:30 AM to 3 PM at Columbia-Greene Community College’s PAC Building, 4400 Route 23 in Hudson.
   
• Meetings for town of Summit residents who want to apply for a Community Development Block Grant for owner-occupied housing rehabilitation will be held on Monday, April 15 at 1:30 PM and 6 PM at the Summit Town Hall, 1580 Charlotte Valley Road in Summit. For more information on income limits call (607) 652-2823 or visit WesternCatskills.org.

Wednesday 4/17

• Attention Lexington residents. Rehearsals for the Lexington Patriots’ Day choir will take place at the Lexington Methodist Church on Wednesday, April 17 at 7 PM. The performance will take place after the Grand March on Saturday, April 20. Call Karen at (518) 989-6027 if you have any questions.
   
•  An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Wednesday, April 17 from 12-6 PM at the Catskill United Methodist Church, 40 Woodland Avenue in Catskill.
   
• The Civil War Dead of Schoharie County will be the topic at the next meeting of the Gilboa Historical Society. Local historian Peter Lindemann will discuss his upcoming book, A Crooked Gun, on Wednesday, April 17 at 7 PM at the Gilboa Town Hall, 373 State Route 990V in Gilboa.
   
• Meetings for town of Jefferson residents who want to apply for a Community Development Block Grant for owner-occupied housing rehabilitation will be held on Wednesday, April 17 at 1:30 PM and 6 PM at the Jefferson Town Hall, 677 North Harpersfield Road in Jefferson. For more information on income limits call (607) 652-2823 or visit WesternCatskills.org.

Thursday 4/18

• The Greater Stamford Chamber of Commerce will hold a business meeting on Thursday, April 18 from 8-9:15 AM at the Stamford Railroad Station, 21 Railroad Avenue in Stamford. Guest Speaker Jessica Vecchione will present information about the Catskill Mountains Film Festival. The public is invited. Admission is free.
• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Thursday, April 18 from 12-7 PM at the Hudson Elks Lodge No. 787, 201 Harry Howard Avenue in Hudson.

Friday 4/19

• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Friday, April 19 from 2:30-7:30 PM at the Town of Coxsackie Ambulance, 117 Mansion Street in Coxsackie.

Saturday 4/20

• A bicentennial Patriots’ Day celebration in honor of the Town of Lexington will be held on Saturday, April 20. The day begins at 11 AM with a Grand March to the Lexington Municipal Building, 3542 Route 42. After a brief program there will be a picnic and activities on the grounds. The Lexington firemen will be selling hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages and there will be birthday cake for everyone. The 15 minute film, The Shot Heard Round the World, will be shown at intervals throughout the day. Robert Hallock, President of the Greene County Historical Society, will portray Nathanael Greene, this county’s namesake. Michael Barcone will present the story of Revolutionary War veteran Daniel Angle. Visit Lexington2013.com for more information.
   
• The Hunter Chamber of Commerce will hold a spring clean-up day to clear Route 23A of debris accumulated during the winter. Participants should come to the parking lot at Gene Gordon Realty by 9 AM to sign up and get their equipment.
   
• The Cairo Chamber of Commerce will hold a spring clean-up day from 9 AM to 1 PM. Volunteers should meet at the Round Top Firehouse. Wear long pants or jeans and sturdy shoes. T-shirts, work gloves and lunch will be provided.
   
• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Rensselaerville Volunteer Ambulance, Routes 352 & 357 in Medusa.

Sunday 4/21

• An all-you-can-eat spaghetti lunch and benefit auction will be held at the Blackthorne Resort in Durham on Sunday, April 21. The menu includes spaghetti, meatballs, salad, bread, beverages and dessert. Lunch will be served from 1-3 PM and the auction begins at 3. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for kids under 12. and free for kids under 5. For tickets call (518) 966-4360 or (518) 860-0863 or email GreeneCountyYouthFair@email.com. All proceeds support the 2013 Greene County Youth Fair.
   
• An all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet will be held at the Conesville firehouse on Sunday, April 21 from 8-11 AM. The menu includes pancakes, French toast, eggs, sausage gravy, biscuits, fruit, yogurt, muffins and more. Free will donation. All proceeds will benefit the Conesville Sunday School and their trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to see Noah at the Sight and Sound Theater.
   
• Local geologist and author Robert Titus will discuss the significance of geology to the settlement of the Bronck farmstead on Sunday, April 21 at 2 PM. His presentation will take place in the Vedder Research Library in Coxsackie. The program is free and open to the public.

Monday 4/22

• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Monday, April 22 from 1-6 PM at Stamford Baptist Church, 40 Lake Street in Stamford.

Wednesday 4/24

• A free rabies clinic for Greene County dogs, cats and ferrets will be held at the Lexington firehouse, Route 42 in Lexington on Wednesday, April 24 from 6-8 PM. Donations are highly encouraged. Call ahead for ferrets. The number is (518) 719-3600.

Friday 4/26

•  A spring tourism seminar and business after hours, sponsored by the Great Northern Catskills Chamber of Commerce and Greene County Tourism, will be held at the Kaatskill Mountain Club at Hunter Mountain on Friday, April 26 from 3-6 PM. The seminar for lodging and tourism related businesses will feature speed-dating networking. Admission is free. To make your reservations contact Jeff at JFriedman@GreatNorthernCatskillsChamber.com or call (518) 943-4222.
   
• An American Red Cross blood drive will be held on Friday, April 26 from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Cairo-Durham High School, 1301 Route 145 in Cairo.

Friday & Saturday 4/26 & 4/27

• Relay for Life of Delaware County will take place at the American Legion Field, 41 Page Avenue in Delhi from Friday, April 26 at 6 PM thru Saturday, April 27.

Saturday 4/27

• The Ashland Fire Department’s annual roast beef dinner will be served at the new firehouse/town hall building in Ashland from 5-7 PM. Take-outs will be available starting at 4:30 PM. Dinners are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12, and free for kids under 5.
   
• The Hunter Fire Company, 17 Bridge Street in Hunter will hold a recruitment open house from 10 AM to 4 PM. The fire department will discuss the requirements to be a volunteer, as well as conduct demonstrations, answer questions, and let visitors know how to get involved in the fire service on the Mountain Top.
   
• The Town of Lexington Fire Company will hold an open house from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Lexington fire station, 3542 Route 42 in Lexington.
   
• The Greene County Historical Society will hold its annual meeting at the Community Hall in West Kill on Sunday, May 5 at 1 PM. Brunch will be served for $15. The speaker will be Michael Barcone. Reservations are required and must be made by Saturday, April 27 by calling (518) 731-1033.
   
• A dance to benefit the Grand Gorge Community Action Group and the Grand Gorge Fire Department and Rescue Squad will be held from 7-10 PM at the Grand Gorge Civic Center, State Route 30 in Grand Gorge. Music for all ages by Bobby Val & Company. Tickets are $5 per person at the door. Food and drinks will be available.
   
• Rosemary Farm Sanctuary will host their second annual tack and bake sale from 9 AM to 4 PM at Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, 1646 Roses Brook Road in South Kortright. Offering everything for the horse and rider at terrific prices, to benefit the horses of Rosemary Farm Sanctuary.
   
• The Hobart Farmers Market’s annual seed sale and spring gardening event will be held at the Hobart Community Center, 80 Cornell Avenue in Hobart from 10 AM to 2 PM. Seeds are non-GMO and 100% certified organic. A Master Gardener will be on site to answer questions and local vendors will be showcasing their products. Admission is free.

Saturday 5/4

• WRIP will do a live remote when the Friends of the Feathered and Furry Wildlife Center hosts its annual gyros and souvlaki fundraiser on Saturday, May 4 from 11 AM to 9 PM at the park and pavilion on South Main Street in Tannersville. There will be food, live bands (Whiskey Cross, Mister Kick, and Dan James), face painting, wildlife demos, vendors and more.
   
• The Cairo town picnic will be held at Angelo Canna Park in Cairo on Saturday, May 4 from 11:30 AM to 3 PM. Food will be available for purchase or bring a picnic lunch. Opening day for Little League. Bring blankets, kites and bikes. There will be a bike parade at 11:30, ribbon cutting at noon, and a free bike raffle from 12-3 PM. (Rain date is Sunday, May 5.)
   
• The Hudson Children’s Book Festival will be held at Hudson Junior/Senior high school, 215 Harry Howard Avenue in Hudson on Saturday, May 4 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Visit HudsonChildrensBookFestival.com for more information.

Sunday 5/5

• The Coxsackie-Athens Community Band will perform marching tunes at Gallagher’s Banquet Hall, 513 Main Street in Cairo on Sunday, May 5 at 2 PM. This is a free event.

Saturday 5/18

• Fashion for the Fountain, a fundraiser sponsored by the Community of Windham Foundation, will be held at Washington Irving Inn, 6629 Route 23A in Hunter on Saturday, May 18 at 1 PM. Proceeds will help with restoration of the 1910 Ayres fountain in Hensonville. Tickets for the fashion show and afternoon high tea are $25 and may be purchased at the Washington Irving Inn; Dressed & Ready, 6006 Main Street in Tannersville; or from NBT Bank in Windham.

Wednesday 5/22

• A free rabies clinic for Greene County dogs, cats and ferrets will be held at the Leeds firehouse, Old Route 23B in Leeds on Wednesday, May 22 from 6-8 PM. Donations are highly encouraged. Call ahead for ferrets. The number is (518) 719-3600.

Thursday 5/23

• The Greater Stamford Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a Memorial Day pop-up farmers’ market at the Stamford Railroad Station, 21 Railroad Avenue in Stamford on Thursday, May 23 from 3:30-6 PM. Locally produced food of all kinds including meats, cheese, butter, craft brews, books and many unique local vendors. Listen to Rip 97.9 as we get closer to the date for details.

Saturday 5/25

• A solo recital by pianist Arnaldo Cohen will take place at the Windham Civic Center on Saturday, May 25 at 8 PM. Music by Bach, Brahms and Chopin will be performed. General admission is $25, $22 for seniors, $20 for contributors and $5 for students. Email Info@WindhamMusic.com or call (518) 734-3868 for reservations or more information.
   
• The Tannersville Duck Race, Crazy Boat Race and Festival will take place on Saturday, May 25. The Duck Race starts at 11 AM on Main Street, next to Brookside Drive, and ends at Rip Van Winkle Lake where the Crazy Boat Race takes place at 2 PM and the Festival runs from 11 AM to 4 PM. (Rain date is Sunday, May 26.)

Sunday 5/26

• Bunt-Brewer American Legion Post 165 will hold their Memorial Day parade in Tannersville on Sunday, May 26. Line up at 12:30 PM at Colonial/Bottini, step off at 1 PM sharp.

Friday & Saturday 5/31 & 6/1

• Relay for Life of Cairo Durham will be held at the Michael J. Quill Irish Cultural Center in East Durham from Friday, May 31 at 6 PM thru Saturday, June 1 at 6 AM. Visit RelayForLife.org for more information.

Saturday & Sunday 6/1 & 6/2

• Grand Fondo Catskills Cycling Weekend will take place in Hunter on Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and 2. The Devil’s Kitchen hill climb will be featured on Saturday and the Grand Fondo Catskills races on Sunday. Visit GreatAmericanCycling.com for more information.

Saturday 6/1

• Dr. Kevin Avery of the Metropolitan Museum of Art will give a lecture at the Zadock Pratt Museum in Prattsville on Saturday, June 1 at 1 PM, to kick off the exhibit Kaaterskill Clove: Where Nature Met Art. His talk will focus on Hudson River School artists Thomas Cole, Asher B. Durand and Sanford Gifford, and will relate their renderings of Kaaterskill Clove to the literature of Washington Irving, James Fenimore Cooper and William Cullen Bryant. He’ll also highlight Sanford Gifford’s great interest in the Zadock Pratt Tannery.
   
• The Cairo-Durham alumni banquet will be held at the Shamrock House, 2388 Route 145 in Durham on Saturday, June 1 at 7 PM. Dinner is $40 per person. Send your check to the Cairo-Durham Alumni Association, PO Box 786, Cairo, NY 12413.

Thursday-Sunday 6/6-6/9

• The 9th annual Mountain Jam Music Festival will be held at Hunter Mountain from Thursday, June 6 thru Sunday, June 9. Performances by Phil Lesh and Friends, Widespread Panic, Gov’t Mule, Primus, Dispatch, The Avett Brothers and more. Visit MountainJam.com for more information.

Saturday 6/8

• The Hunter-Tannersville Booster Club will hold a golf tournament, rain or shine, on Saturday, June 8 at Colonial Country Club in Tannersville starting at 8:30 AM. Proceeds will benefit the HTC student athletes. For more information call Bobbi at (518) 589-3923.

Thursday-Saturday 6/13-6/15

• Taste of Country Music Festival will take place at Hunter Mountain from Thursday, June 13 thru Saturday, June 15. Performances by Lady Antebellum, Willie Nelson and Family, Trace Adkins, Montgomery Gentry and many others. Visit TasteOfCountryFestival.com for more information.

Sunday 6/16

• The 16th annual Cruisin’ on the Mountaintop Father’s Day car show will be held on Main Street, Tannersville on Sunday, June 16 from 10 AM to 4 PM. Entertainment by The Greyhounds.

Sunday 6/23

• The Upper Catskill String Quartet will present its tribute to American music – classics from Scott Joplin, the big band sound, Broadway musicals and late 20th century rock ‘n’ roll – at the Maple Museum on the Jefferson Town Green on Sunday, June 23 at 2 PM. The concert is free.

Wednesday 6/26

• A free rabies clinic for Greene County dogs, cats and ferrets will be held at the Earlton firehouse, Route 81 in Earlton on Wednesday, June 26 from 6-8 PM. Donations are highly encouraged. Call ahead for ferrets. The number is (518) 719-3600.

Friday & Saturday 6/28 & 6/29

• ‎Relay for Life of the Mountain Top will be held at Dolan’s Lake in Hunter from Friday, June 28 thru Saturday, June 29. Visit RelayForLife.org for more information.

Sunday 6/30

• The Greater Stamford Area Chamber of Commerce will hold an Independence Day pop-up farmers’ market outside the Frank W. Cyr Center, 159 West Main Street in the Village of Stamford on Sunday, June 30 at a time TBD. The Stamford Rotary’s classic car show will take place the same day.

Saturday 7/20

• The Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra, Robert Manno, conductor; Darcy Dunn, mezzo-soprano; Stephen Gosling, piano and Donald Batchelder, trumpet, will perform music by Benjamin Britten, Ralph Vaughn-Williams, Robert Manno, Sir Edgar Elgar, Antonio Vivaldi, Gustav Mahler and Dmitri Shostakovich at the Windham Civic Center on Saturday, July 20 at 8 PM. General admission is $35, $32 for seniors, $30 for contributors and $5 for students. Email Info@WindhamMusic.com or call (518) 734-3868 for reservations or more information.

BULLETIN BOARD

- Volunteers are needed, especially in the Windham area on Mondays and Fridays, to deliver meals and to provide transportation to medical appointments. Volunteers generally work one day a week or every other week. If you’re interested in volunteering or need more information, call Ruth Pforte at (518) 719-3555 or toll-free at (877) 794-9266, or email RPforte@DiscoverGreene.com. You can also call Pat Merwin at the Jewett municipal building at (518) 263-4392.

- Family Support Service, an organization that helps families supporting an individual with autism or a developmental disability living fulltime in their home, has expanded their services into Greene, Orange and Ulster counties. Their toll-free number (888) 750-2266 is manned 24/7 to answer questions about the program and the services they provide. Visit Occupations.org for further information.

- The Mid-Hudson Region Small Business Development Center is providing information on the steps small businesses can follow immediately with respect to the effects of Hurricane Sandy in the State of New York. Beginning on October 28, 2012, federal aid may be made available to NY businesses to supplement state and local recovery assistance in the areas affected by the storm. Contact the Mid-Hudson Region SBDC at (845) 339-0025.

- The Hunter Foundation, Inc. is seeking contractors who may be interested in submitting bids for upcoming moderate rehabilitation projects throughout the mountain top area. Contractors must carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation. If interested contact Annie at (518) 589-5050 Extension 10 or email Anne@HunterFoundation.org.

- Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA is asking for donations of food to support their pet food bank. The shelter’s current need is for dry cat and dog food. Donations may be dropped off on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM, or on Wednesday or Sunday from 9 AM to noon. They are also accepting gift cards and cash donations to purchase food. The address is 125 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534. The Food Bank is open for those in need of assistance on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 4 PM. For more information call (518) 828-6044 or email RonPerez@cghs.org.

- StartHereGetThere.org lists local events, organized by geographic region, where New Yorkers can learn about financial aid programs and receive hands on assistance with their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at workshops staffed by financial aid administrators from colleges throughout the State. The site also provides a step-by-step tutorial for completing the FAFSA, college and financial aid planning information, informative videos, helpful tips and tools, and information about federal, state and college-sponsored aid including grants such as New York’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and other scholarships, loans and work study programs. Students and families can receive personal assistance with their FAFSA questions throughout the month. Chat online weekdays on StartHereGetThere.org, email FAFSAHelp@hesc.ny.gov, or call 1-800-808-1790 weekdays from noon to 5 PM. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to obtaining financial aid. Families of college-bound students, as well as those currently attending college should complete the FAFSA as early as possible in January to have the best chance of receiving all the financial aid for which they are qualified.

- Are you a home owner in the Catskill-Delaware New York City Watershed who repaired or replaced your septic system during 2012 without help from the Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC)? If so, you may be able to recoup those costs now. The CWC Board of Directors recently voted to allow reimbursement under the Septic Repair and Rehabilitation Program for 2012 septic repairs that occurred within the Watershed but outside priority areas. Adequate monies in the program fund allow the CWC to make this assistance available at year’s end. Homeowners who can show proof that repairs were completed before December 19, 2012, were approved by New York City Environmental Protection, and were paid for may fill out a CWC form to request reimbursement. Full-time residents may receive 100% of eligible costs, while part-time residents can get 60% of those costs reimbursed. Call (845) 586-1400 to obtain the reimbursement form.
  The ongoing Septic Repair and Rehabilitation Program can help homeowners located within 250 feet of a watercourse in the Catskill-Delaware Watershed. If you are experiencing difficulties with your on-site system, call the number above for information on how to participate in the program in 2013. Septic systems constructed after November 2, 1995 are not eligible for this program, but their owners may qualify for the Septic Maintenance Program, which pays for half the cost of pumping out and inspecting their systems. To learn more about other CWC programs to assist residents and businesses in the New York City Watershed West of the Hudson River, visit CWCOnline.org.
 

Golf Tournaments

• VFW Post 1545 will hold their 5th annual golf tournament at Christman’s Windham House, 5742 State Route 23 in Windham on Friday, June 7. Registration begins at 8 AM, tee off at 9:30 AM. The cost is $85 per person, which includes continental breakfast, 18 holes of golf with cart, lunch at the turn, plus dinner and various awards in Christman’s 1805 Tavern. Please pre-register by calling Chris at (518) 734-5011, Dick at (518) 755-2032, Marc at (201) 741-6534, online at VFWPost1545.org or fill out an application at Christman’s Pro Shop. Various levels of sponsorship are also available. All proceeds benefit the Sgt. James F. Carty, DSC, VFW Post 1545 Windham, NY building fund.

American Red Cross Blood Drives

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit RedCrossBlood.org to make an appointment to donate blood. Individuals who are at least 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in NY), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. Identification is required at the time of donation.

• Monday, April 15 from 9:30 AM to 3 PM – Columbia-Greene Community College PAC Building, 4400 Route 23 in Hudson

• Wednesday, April 17 from 12-6 PM – Catskill United Methodist Church, 40 Woodland Avenue in Catskill

• Thursday, April 18 from 12-7 PM – Hudson Elks Lodge No. 787, 201 Harry Howard Avenue in Hudson

• Friday, April 19 from 2:30-7:30 PM – Town of Coxsackie Ambulance, 117 Mansion Street in Coxsackie

• Saturday, April 20 from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM – Rensselaerville Volunteer Ambulance, Routes 352 & 357 in Medusa

• Monday, April 22 from 1-6 PM – Stamford Baptist Church, 40 Lake Street in Stamford

• Friday, April 26 from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM – Cairo-Durham High School, 1301 Route 145 in Cairo

• Monday, April 29 from 10 AM to 3 PM – First Niagara City Centre, 1 Hudson City Centre in Hudson
 

 Town Directory

• Sunday services are held at the Ashland United Methodist Church at 9 AM.
• A breaking habits support group meets every Friday night in the Ashland Community Hall, across from the post office, from 7-8 PM. Call Gary at (518) 819-9554 for more information.

• The women’s group for breast cancer patients and survivors meets every third Monday of the month from 6-7:30 PM at the Cairo Town Hall Court Room, 512 Main Street in Cairo. For more information call (845) 339-4673.
• Cairo Rotary meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM for a dinner meeting at The Bavarian Manor Country Inn in Purling.

Catskill

• The Community Action of Greene County’s Food Pantry at 53 South Jefferson Avenue in Catskill is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 2-4 PM.
• The fitness center, located in the Catskill High School, is open for public use Monday thru Friday from 5-9 PM and weekends from 7 AM to 4 PM. The cost is $1 per use. Please use the entrance located on the side of the building between the auditorium and the gym. An attendant is on duty during the times the facility is open.

• Lighten the Load, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at 6 PM at the Second Reformed Church, 16 Washington Avenue in Coxsackie. Wear comfortable clothing. Suggested donation is $5. Call Jeffrey at (518) 478-5414 for more information.

Durham – Durham, East Durham, Oak Hill

• The Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Knock Council #6439 meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month at 7:30 PM in the Council Hall located on Route 145 in East Durham. New members are always welcome.

Greenville

• A 12-Step Workshop for individuals who want help with hurts, hang-ups, or habits they would like to break takes place at the Greenville Christian Life Center on Mondays from 7-9 PM. Sessions are free. Call (518) 966-4519 with questions.
• The Northeast Vietnam Veterans Association meets at the Greenville Library on the first Saturday of each month at 12:30 PM.
• The Freehold Church, located on County Route 67 in Freehold, is offering a free soup night on Thursdays from 4-6 PM. Free soup, bread, coffee and tea to anyone in need. All are welcome.

Hunter – Elka Park, Haines Falls, Hunter, Onteora Park, Platte Clove, Tannersville, Twilight Park

• First Friday Shabbat services and Oneg (potluck meal) will be held on the first Friday of every month at the Hunter synagogue on Main Street in Hunter at 7 PM. Skiers welcome. Bring a dish if you like. Email Mike Alpern at AlpernM@aol.com for more information.
• Bunt-Brewer American Legion Post 165 meets the first Wednesday of the month, April through January, at 7:30 PM at the legion headquarters in the Tannersville Firehouse. For information call Jim Cullen at (518) 263-5184.
• The Kaaterskill United Methodist Church food pantry, located behind the Tannersville Village Hall, is open every Wednesday from 1-3 PM. If you have an emergency need or would like to donate non-perishable items, please call Bernice at (518) 263-4865.
• Story time for children ages 3-6 is held at the Hunter Public Library Tuesday mornings from 10:30-11 AM. Call (518) 263-4655 for further information.
• Earn Money - Share What You Know
  Do you have a skill or knowledge that you would like to share with others, while getting paid for your efforts? Become an instructor in the Hunter-Tannersville Central School District's Adult Education Program. You choose the days and times. We do the paperwork of advertising, registering participants, finding a location for your class, and handling fees. Contact HTC Adult Education Coordinator, Barbara Slutzky at BSlutzky@htcsd.org; (518) 589-5400, extension 1520; or call (518) 263-4061. At this time the following courses are in the works: First Aid/CPR; Photography; Yoga; Scrapbooking; Ball Room Dancing; and Karate. We have also had a request for Dog Obedience classes and are looking for an instructor.
• The Mountain Top Golden Agers meet at the Tannersville Village Hall the fourth Thursday of the month.
• A free creative writing workshop is offered at 2 PM every Saturday at the Village Square Bookstore & Literary Arts Center, 7950 Main Street in the Village of Hunter. Call (518) 263-2050 to sign up.
• Hunter Chamber of Commerce meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month.

Jewett

• The Jewett Senior Center, located on Route 23C just off Route 296 in Jewett, holds blood pressure clinics the second Tuesday of the month and also on the fourth Friday of the month at 11 AM. Call (518) 263-4392 for information.
• The Jewett Ladies Auxiliary meets the third Tuesday of the month at 8 PM in the upstairs meeting room in the Jewett Firehouse.
• Sunday services are held at the Jewett Presbyterian Church at 9 AM.
• The Jewett Food Pantry is open every Sunday from Noon until 2:30 PM at the Jewett Presbyterian Church.

• Every Wednesday morning a pre-school program will be held in the Lexington Mission food pantry meeting room from 10:30 AM to noon. There are stories, crafts, snacks and lots of fun. Call (518) 299-3227 for information.
• The Lexington Mission Community Food Pantry, in the old supermarket next to the Lexington post office, is open every Saturday from 9 AM to 12 Noon. Food and clothing are available and everyone is welcome. For further information call (518) 299-3227 or send an email to Lexington-Mission@gmail.com.
• A 12-step support group meets every Friday night in the Lexington Mission food pantry meeting room from 7-8 PM. Call Andy at (518) 487-8270 or Gary at (518) 819-9554 for more information.
• Sunday services are held at the Lexington United Methodist Church at 9:30 AM.
• Sunday morning worship services are held at the Lexington Mission at 9 AM.

Prattsville

• The Prattsville food pantry, in the Methodist Community Church, is open on the third Tuesday of every month from 4-6 PM.
• A community dinner is held in the Prattsville United Methodist Church hall on the first Wednesday of every month at 6 PM. Please bring a food dish to share.
• Sunday school classes have resumed at the Prattsville United Methodist Church and are held on Sundays from 9:30-10:30 AM. Ages 3 and up are welcome and there is also an adult class that meets at the same time.

Windham – Hensonville, Maplecrest, Windham

• Knit 2gether Thursdays will be held at the Windham Public Library from 6-8 PM. Amateur and experienced knitters and crocheters are invited to attend.
• A self-help program for young adults will be held at St. Theresa’s Church, Route 23 in Windham every Wednesday at 7 PM. Visit alateen.org to learn more. Anonymity is the basis of this program.
• Story time is held at the Windham Public Library at 11 AM every Tuesday for children ages 2 and up. Call (518) 734-4405 to register or for more information.
• The Community of Windham Foundation is selling streamers to commemorate all who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. They are $10 each and are available at Legacy Bank, Route 296 in Windham, or by calling Chris Mattiace at (518) 734-5011. Proceeds will support youth and community programs.
• The Friends of Rachel Club at Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School will be collecting the tabs from soda and other cans all year. The tabs will be donated to the Aluminum Tab Collection Recycling Project at Shriners Hospital. The proceeds will go towards purchasing needed equipment at Shriners. Collection cans are located in the Main Office and cafetorium.
• A DVD of the Windham Community Concert, held on March 5, 2011, is now available and may be purchased at the Windham Public Library in Windham.
• The WAJPL Senior Club meets on the first and third Monday of each month at the Windham Town Hall in Hensonville at 1:30 PM.
• Craft classes for the WAJPL Golden Agers will be held at the Windham Town Hall in Hensonville on Tuesdays at 1 PM.
• The Knights of Columbus Council 8533 meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM in the church hall of St. Theresa’s Church in Windham.
• Sgt. James F. Carty VFW Post 1545 and the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW meet the second Wednesday of each month at 7 PM at the Dugout, lower Main Street, Windham.
• Al Anon meetings are held every Wednesday at 6 PM at St. Theresa’s Church in Windham.
• St. Theresa’s Women’s Guild meets the first Friday of each month at 11 AM in the church hall at St. Theresa’s Church, 5188 Route 23 in Windham. All parishioners are welcome.
• The Windham Food Pantry at Hope Restoration Church is open every Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM. Call (518) 734-3826 for more information.
• Sunday services are held at the Windham-Hensonville United Methodist Church, St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church, Hope Restoration Church, and Mitchell Hollow Missions Church at 11 AM. Mitchell Hollow Missions Church holds Sunday school every Sunday at 10 AM. For more information about Mitchell Hollow Missions Church go to MitchellHollow.org.
• Catholic Charities of Columbia/Greene County WIC Program will be assisting families the third Tuesday of every other month from 10 AM to 2 PM at St Theresa’s Church in Windham. The WIC program is a nutrition education program available to pregnant and postpartum women and their children under the age of 5. Each family member is eligible for $70-$130 worth of food vouchers per month. Participants need to be income eligible for the program. Please call the Catskill WIC office at (518) 943-9082 to see if you qualify or have questions about your current WIC benefits. The office at 82 Woodland Avenue in Catskill is open 5 days a week.

 County Directory

Greene County

• Check out the new way to recycle refundable bottles and cans at the Catskill Bottle & Can Redemption Center, 311 West Bridge Street in Catskill, next to the Ambrosia Diner. Currently hours are 9 AM until 2 PM, Monday through Friday. Beginning on Monday, April 15 new hours will be Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Run by individuals from Ulster-Greene ARC and their support staff, the center takes in refundable bottles and cans and gives immediate refunds of 5 cents per bottle and can. No need to stand in line feeding the return machines at the store, this staff of four employees sorts your returns and pays on the spot.
• The Greene County Historic Register Committee is looking for volunteers to serve on their committee. If you have a love of history, enjoy working with like-minded others, and are looking for a fulfilling opportunity to volunteer in your community, then this is for you. Send your name and interests to the Historic Register Committee, Vedder Research Library, 90 County Route 42, Coxsackie, NY 12051. Individuals wanting to file an application for inclusion of their home, a public building or other landmark on the Register are encouraged to do so. Application forms may be downloaded from Greene County Historical Society’s website at GCHistory.org. Applications are also available at the Vedder Research Library in Coxsackie. The forms are easy to complete and explain the criteria in detail.
• Greene County Department for the Aging operates a Homebound Meal Delivery Program for homebound clients over the age of 60. They are urgently in need of Homebound Meal Delivery Volunteers for the Tannersville and Windham meal routes. Volunteers are needed at 10 AM for one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. Volunteers for the Tannersville area are urgently needed for Wednesdays. Volunteers for the Windham area could be used any day Monday through Friday. For more information about this opportunity volunteers can contact Ruth Pforte, Volunteer Coordinator at (518) 719-3555 or by calling toll free 1-877-794-9266.
• Area home-schooling families seeking to connect with others may want to check out Living Room Learners, an organization open to home-schoolers of all ages, religions, and home-schooling styles. As the new school year begins, Living Room Learners is taking a poll of where interest lies so as to decide upon meeting places for the coming year. It also offers a social directory so that students can seek and find other home-schoolers who share the same interests and age range who live nearby. For more information phone (518) 239-8414 or email LivingRoomLearners-owner@yahoogroups.com.
• Mountaintop Ecumenical monthly meetings start at 11 AM with a speaker, followed by a covered-dish luncheon. All are welcome. Please bring a dish to pass.
     Tuesday, May 7 – Lexington United Methodist Church
     Tuesday, June 4 – Mitchell Hollow Mission Church, Windham
     Tuesday, September 3 – St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Windham
     Tuesday, October 1 – East Jewett United Methodist Church
     Wednesday, November 6 – Windham-Hensonville United Methodist Church, Windham
     Tuesday, December 3 – Ashland Community United Methodist Church

Delaware County

• Western Catskills Community Revitalization Council, Inc. (WCCRC) is pleased to announce that they are administering a Restore NY grant awarded to the Town of Stamford. The Restore New York Communities Initiative provides municipalities with financial assistance for revitalization of commercial and mixed use properties. The program encourages community development and neighborhood growth through the elimination and redevelopment of blighted structures. Since 1981, WCCRC’s mission has been to cooperate with local, state and federal governmental and civic bodies in aiding, assisting and fostering the planning, development, renewal, and improvement of housing and other buildings in the counties of Delaware, Schoharie and Greene, for the primary purpose of revitalizing communities and in securing improved housing, commercial buildings and community facilities. WCCRC will add another $1.1 million this year to the communities in their service area by means of the programs that they manage. For further information on WCCRC and the programs they administer, visit WesternCatskills.org or call (607) 652-2823.
• CORE Values Thrift Store in Stamford is located at 112 Main Street, across from the Grand Union. CORE welcomes donations of clean, usable clothing, household items, toys, and furniture. No old computers, please. All donations are tax deductible. Money received through the sale of merchandise is distributed back to the community. Open Wednesday through Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM. The phone number is (607) 652-4772.
• The Roxbury Library, located at 53742 State Highway 30 in Roxbury, directly opposite the United Methodist Church on Main Street, has new hours. The Roxbury Library, RLA Thrift Shoppe and the Irma Mae Griffin History Room will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. Call (607) 326-7901 for further information.

Schoharie County

• The Gilboa Historical Society meets every third Wednesday of the month at 7 PM at the Gilboa Town Hall on Route 990V in Gilboa. There are no meetings in January and February. There is a short business meeting prior to a guest speaker and refreshments are served.
   
• The Schoharie Valley Hay Shakers Square Dance Club hold dances at the Middleburgh Central Schools on the first and third Friday of the month from September through June, except January and February. All dances run from 7:30 to 10:30 PM. Contact them by email at SVHayShakers@gmail.com or call (518) 595-9213 if you have any questions.

Columbia County

• A new breast cancer support group will meet in Hudson on the third Thursday of each month starting May 17, 2012. Meetings will take place at 6 PM in the second floor conference room of the Columbia Healthcare Consortium, 325 Columbia Street. Space is limited, so please call (845) 339-4673 to reserve a spot. If you have any questions call that number or email Hope@BreastCancerOptions.org.

2013 Appointments Available For Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus and Medicaid Enrollments

Many working individuals and families experience difficulty finding affordable health insurance. If your children are uninsured, you can talk with an Enrollment Counselor about Child Health Plus, a free or low-cost health insurance program. CHP provides comprehensive health benefits for children from birth to 18 years old. Childless adults and parents without health insurance should also ask about Family Health Plus.

Enrollment counselors offer eligibility screening and application assistance for individuals and families wishing to obtain affordable health insurance through New York State-funded Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus, and Medicaid. Assistance with annual re-certification is also available. These consultations are absolutely free of charge. Eligibility screening can be done by phone by calling (518) 822-9600.

Visit ColumbiaHealthNet.org for more information.

Walk-in hours at the Healthcare Consortium office, 325 Columbia Street, Suite 200 in Hudson are Monday through Friday 9 AM to 4 PM.

To make an appointment at one of the following locations, please call (518) 822-9600 or toll free (800) 980-5530.

GREENE COUNTY SITES

• Catholic Charities in Catskill
  Wednesday, April 24 from 2:30-5:30 PM

• Greenville Public Library
  Tuesday, April 16 from 9:30 AM to 3 PM

• Windham Public Library
  Saturday, April 20 from 10 AM to 12:30 PM

COLUMBIA COUNTY SITES

• Catholic Charities in Hudson
  Every Monday from 8:30 AM to 12 PM

• Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson
  Saturday, April 13 from 9 AM to 12 PM

• Columbia Opportunities in Hudson
  Wednesday, April 17 from 11 AM to 1 PM
  Wednesday, April 24 from 8:30 AM to 1 PM

• Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood
  Thursday, April 18 from 3-5 PM

• Parish of Our Lady of Hope in Copake Falls
  Thursday, April 18 from 9:30 AM to 1 PM

• St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Valatie
  Tuesday, April 23 from 9:30 AM to 12 PM
   

 Art Exhibits

2013 Greene County Council on the Arts Calendar of Events:

The Greene County Council on the Arts Catskill Gallery is located at 398 Main Street in Catskill and is open Monday thru Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM. For more information on any of these exhibits and events call (518) 943-3400, visit their website at GreeneArts.org or email GCCA@GreeneArts.org.

Catskill Mountain Foundation – 2013 Performing Arts Programs

• Saturday 4/13 – Flamenco Vivo Dance Company
• Saturday 5/11 – Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company
• Saturday 5/18 – Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company and Students
• Saturday 5/25 – Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company and Students
• Saturday 6/8 – Storyteller David Gonzalez and “Aesop Bops”
• Saturday 6/15 – Early Music New York: “Istanpitta”
• Saturday 7/6 – Perspectives Ensemble featuring composer Huang Ruo “Sparkle!: Works by Chinese-American composers”
• Saturday 7/13 – Catskill Mountain Foundation annual benefit
• Saturday 7/20 – Amati Music Festival, guest artist performing on “Cremona 1734” Stradivari violin from the Sau-Wing Lam Collection
• Saturday 7/27 – National Dance Institute featuring the NDI Celebration Team and local students
• Saturday 7/27 – Manhattan in the Mountains faculty concert
• Saturday 8/3 – Manhattan in the Mountains faculty concert
• Saturday 8/10 – Catskill Jazz Factory
• Sunday-Thursday 8/11-8/22 – Catskill High Peaks Festival: Music with Altitude!
• Sunday 8/18 – Catskill High Peaks Festival: “Northern Lights: Grieg Revival”
• Sunday 9/1 – American Virtuosi Baroque Opera Theater featuring Kenneth Hamrick: Baroque Spectacular
• Saturday 10/12 – Catskill Jazz Factory, Aaron Diehl Trio
• Saturday 11/30 – Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra: Works by Vivaldi, Bach, Grieg and Copland

Mountain Top Historical Society Hike Schedule

The Mountain Top Historical Society does not require membership for hike participation. We do, however, request that you register for each hike. Participants can register by going to the Contact Us page or calling (518) 589-6657. Please tell us your name, phone number and total in your party. The schedule is subject to change. Call Bob (518) 734-9701 or Larry (518) 734-4264 or check MTHS.org. Notification of changes, including cancellations due to weather, will be made up to the day of any given hike.