SC Democrat Podcast

In this episode, we delve into four significant stories shaping the region, from proposed new villages and changes in leadership to wildlife protection and political shifts.

Story Highlights:

The Village of Ateres: Our first story revolves around the proposed new village of Ateres, scheduled for a joint public hearing on August 3 at 5 p.m. The hearing aims to address a petition seeking incorporation within the Town of Thompson and Fallsburg. The village is expected to house 500 inhabitants, raising concerns about motives and housing regulations.

Leadership Changes at SUNY Sullivan: Next, we discuss leadership changes at SUNY Sullivan. Dr. Casey Crabill, a retired President of Onondaga Community College, is sworn in as the new Officer in Charge, taking over from Dr. Ellen Galligan. The college begins the search for a full-time president, a process estimated to take up to eight months to a year.

Wildlife Killing Contests Bill: Our third story centers around a recently passed bill awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul's signature. The bill aims to ban wildlife killing contests, with exceptions for hunting certain species. While some argue the contests have benefits, the ban seeks to address concerns from residents and animal welfare advocates.

Changes in Sullivan County Republican Committee: Lastly, we delve into changes within the Sullivan County Republican Committee. Chairman Gary Maas appoints Greg Goldstein as the new chair, replacing himself, amidst concerns about dysfunction within the Sullivan County Legislature. With upcoming elections, the committee aims to foster positive change and unity within the party.

While the first year of Moving Toward Health was about reflection, the second year is all about action! Join Maggi Fitzpatrick as she breaks down how her definition of what it means to Move Toward Health has changed over the last year of writing the column and how you can benefit from not only reflecting on where you are, but really focusing on taking the next step forward.

We must allow ourselves to evolve as we move through life and this applies to all areas, including our health.

Feel free to reach out at [email protected] with any questions or reflections on this topic.

In this episode,

Fallsburg faces resource strain amid significant development, grappling with water and sewer utility challenges.

Tragic fatal accident at Route 17B leaves a community in mourning, as investigations continue.

The Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership battles invasive plants at the Callicoon Riverside Park.

Mysterious disappearance of Canada Geese in White Lake prompts investigation and concerns.

Garnet Health undergoes changes, with layoffs and a focus on recruiting frontline staff.

Stay informed and connected with your community through these stories and more.

In this episode of "Local News Roundup," we cover:

Sullivan County receives critical federal High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) designation to combat the opioid crisis.

Garnet Health announces workforce reduction due to operating losses, affecting 49 employees.

Rockland town sets regulations for short-term rentals (STR) to manage the challenges of rapid growth.

Fallsburg faces a shortage of code officers amidst rapid growth, highlighting a nationwide issue.

Tusten prepares for a lead pipe inventory project to address potential environmental concerns.

Wayne Bank building in Rockland sold, with repairs needed for a leaky roof.

A heartwarming celebration of Margery Van Ginhoven's 90th birthday, honoring her passions and longevity secrets.

In this episode, we cover:

The Village of Monticello's budget preparation report revealing a projected deficit of $2.2 million and the public's concerns over the lack of a youth recreational center.

The Town of Fallsburg's successful Pop Up Food Pantry event, which provided essential food items to over 100 people in need.

The remarkable survival of an off-duty firefighter from the Woodbourne Fire Department who was struck by lightning during severe thunderstorms in Sullivan County.

The schedule change for the Delaware Aqueduct project, affecting New York City's water supply and necessitating additional installations for worker safety.

Sullivan County's positive projection of $66 million in sales tax revenues for the year, along with potential challenges from rising costs and changes in revenue sources.

A proposal for a soft drink factory in the Town of Mamakating, sparking discussions about zoning regulations and special use permits.

The closure of the Westvillebrook Post Office, impacting over 600 residents and prompting community concerns and efforts to seek its reopening.

A moment of silence in honor of Richard "Dick" Foster, who recently passed away, during the Town of Bethel Board meeting.

In this episode, we cover a fire incident in Narrowsburg, the Hometown Heroes Program in Mamakating, a touching event in the Liberty Central School District, upgrades at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, and the outcome of the Republican Primary races.

In this episode,

Longtime columnist Ramona Jan diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer, community starts GoFundMe campaign.

Camp FIMFO project fails to meet substantial conformity, raising questions for the Upper Delaware Council.

Deb-El plans expansion with new facility in Thompsonville to address storage constraints.

Delaware Town provides updates on various projects, including building repairs and business fees.

Historic Pines Hotel destroyed by fire, drawing a massive response from emergency services.

Village of Jeffersonville faces obstacles to growth due to vacant buildings.

Makating Town Board explores cost-saving options for the construction of a pole barn.

Financial audit report reveals positive results for the Bethel Town Board's budget management.

Have you ever thought about what leads up to regretting a decision? Regret oftentimes comes up when we make decisions that are out of alignment with our values and our goals. It can be very difficult to figure out why we aren't feeling our best or are feeling regretful after choosing to do or not do something, and this usually happens because we aren't clear on what is most important to us. In this episode we're going to go through how to figure out what our values and goals are, how to make decisions that make us feel excited and energized, and how to reevaluate our choices when we do make decisions we regret, because we all do and always will. If you find this episode valuable, please share it with a friend so we can all move toward health together!

Feel free to reach out at [email protected] with any questions or reflections on this topic.

In this episode, we have a diverse lineup of articles to discuss:

Holiday Mountain's revitalization: Michael Taylor aims to restore the skiing paradise and transform it into a regional attraction, with the support of the Town of Thompson.

Planned Unit Development project in Swan Lake: Joel Kohn presents a project to construct 180 units across 80 acres, providing a mix of two-bedroom and four-to-five-bedroom structures along with ample open space.

Sullivan County's fight against drug trafficking: Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff advocates for the county to be designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), enhancing law enforcement resources and combating drug-related issues.

Appointment of Sullivan County's Commissioner of Public Safety: Scott F. Schulte, a highly experienced individual, elected as the new Commissioner of Public Safety, aims to foster collaboration and inclusivity for the safety of all community members.

Juneteenth parade in the Village of Monticello: The second annual Juneteenth parade, organized by Jane Sorensen and Sandra Johnson Fields, commemorates the abolition of slavery and celebrates freedom and Black culture.

A heartfelt story about Kia Williams: Tragically, Kia Williams passed away while visiting Ghana, and her family seeks answers surrounding her passing while remembering her warm and outgoing nature.

In this episode

Delaware Valley Central School: Discover the transformation of this historic school after a merger and subsequent closures.

Devastating Loss for a Farmer: Learn about Brett Budde, a farmer who faced a complete apple crop loss due to unseasonably cold weather.

Revised Budget Proposal: Explore the Roscoe Central School District's revised budget after the initial proposal failed to pass.

Preserving Medical History: Delve into the donation of the Sullivan County Medical Society's records to the Sullivan County Historical Society.

Smoke-Filled Skies: Find out how wildfires in Quebec, Canada, affected Sullivan County, causing hazy conditions and poor air quality.

Resignation of Wendy Brown: Learn about Wendy Brown's decision to step down from the Sullivan County Drug Task Force after combating the opioid epidemic.

Staff Changes at the Upper Delaware Council: Discover the recent staff changes and efforts to fill a vacant position at the council.

Denial of Camp FIMFO Project: Explore the National Park Service's denial of a campsite refurbishing project in Barryville.

The Club at Smallwood: Uncover the cherished community institution that has been providing a welcoming space for individuals in Smallwood since 1954.