NEWS

NEWS & OPINION - ARCHIVE

Accord-Kerhonkson On-Line will post articles submitted for publication by its readers. We assume no responsibility for the accuracy of pieces submitted. We also provide a place for residents to post opinions in the form of Letters to the Editor. The purpose of this service is to provide a forum for the open and free exchange of news and ideas. To submit a news article or letter to the editor, please e-mail it to: TownCrier@accord-kerhonkson.com . Please include your name and telephone number for verification. We reserve the right to edit submissions for length and clarity.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor (please note that the following letters to not necessarily represent the views of this publication)

Letters Posted November 18, 2001

Dear Editor:

I am enjoying getting to know some of my neighbors via the letters you receive. Re: Phyllis Goodman's letter I think she is both right and wrong. Of course many Muslims have condemned the terrorist attacks. Perhaps the sounds of protest are not as loud as some of us would like. But we cannot assume anything from this silence. There is always a tendency not to want to condemn one's family in public,no matter what one may think privately. I think our Kerhonkson family, as represented by the Town Council, would have been wise to state that our Town would not tolerate bigotry .

Suzanne Sznajderman

Dear Editor:

I am very disappointed in the Town of Rochester Republican/Conservative candidates’ refusal to participate in a "Meet the Candidates Night" this year. The format, moderator, and rules for this year’s forum were exactly the same as the one held in 1999.

I believe that during every local election campaign the voters in the Town of Rochester are entitled to at least one public forum to question candidates about their positions on the issues or any other topic deemed relevant by a voter.

Make no mistake. All candidates running for office in the Town of Rochester were invited. I made the first invitation, on October 1, 2001 giving at least three possible dates for a forum. On every occasion they rejected every date that I proposed while offering no date they were available. I finally gave a deadline, by Friday October 19, 2001, for the Republican/Conservatives to give us a date that they were available. They did not and have not responded. I thank everyone for participating in the forum on Monday, October 29, 2001. I am still ready and willing to participate in another public forum. Are you? If not, why not?

Brinton Baker, Candidate for Town Council, Town of Rochester (BSP 11/2/01)

Dear Editor:

It’s time for a clean sweep in the Town of Rochester. After more than ten years of being governed by the same group of men, it’s time to fix our problems. Our local government is being criticized left and right for failing to do the most basic elements of its job properly -- and the criticism reflects badly on all of us who put these people in office. We can’t even figure how much it’s costing tax payers because the records aren’t kept properly. This all falls under the responsibility of the Supervisor and Town Board.

We need to have a proactive government that is willing to look into things properly, one that will not dismiss other people’s opinions with eyes rolled upward, and divisive shouts of "you people!" We need inclusiveness and we need to break the cycle of pessimism and cynicism that we have in our local officials. In short, we need new people who care about the future of our community and the common people who live and work here. That’s why I’ll be voting for Richard Siegel, Brinton Baker and Tony Spano on November 6^th. I urge you all to do the same.

Dave Leiden, Kerhonkson (BSP 11/2/01)

Dear Editor:

Once again, our Town of Rochester community shines. Although we shined by moonlight this time, shine we did. The Rochester Youth Commission with help from the Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce, Inc. held their first annual "Haunted House" on both October 20 and 27. Actors ranging from 10 to 40 years of age, magically produced a truly world class configuration over a dozen scenes. It took these community-minded people weeks of working tirelessly, to put the great event together. Their efforts paid off, not with money, but with high praise and applause from the hundreds of people who dared to enter the haunted house and be scared to "fun!"

The haunted house was created in one of the buildings of the former Agway purchased by the Town of Rochester to be used as a community center. We have a Town Supervisor, Harold Lipton, and a Youth Commission Director, Carol Dennin to thank for bring about the community center, a great town asset, to fruition. They are the first to say they did not do this along, and they had help from many people and organizations, etc., that are too numerous to list here. Yet they gave inspiration, leadership and direction by being involved with every step of the renovation. The kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce, Inc., is proud to be part of a community that has people like Supervisor Harold Lipton and Youth Director Carol Dennin in charge and working positively with a hands-on approach.

Board of Directors, Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (11/2/02)

Dear Editor:

It is unfortunate that, at a time when we should be coming together, some local political candidates have twisted the facts to suit their own ends.

There are no funds missing or unaccounted for from transfer station operations. The report in question stated only that transfer station costs are exceeding the revenues to the residents. We strive to keep the cost to the taxpayers as low as possible. We have maintained lower costs than almost every town in the county. Had Mr. Spano discussed his mis-perceptions with the Town Board prior to his complaint to local law enforcement, we could have spared him the embarrassment of making erroneous accusations.

The recent State Audit, requested by the Town Board, pointed out six deficiencies.. (1) Due to a computer malfunction resulting in the temporary "loss" of computer records, an outside accounting firm was hired to manually reconstruct the records. This delayed completion of the year end financial report, which has since been filed. (2) All ledgers and reports are now given to the Town Board in a timely manner. They were always available, but never requested by the Board.(3) The inventory of town property, which was updated in 1997, will be completed by the end of November. (4) The Highway Superintendent has instituted stricter controls over gasoline inventory. (5) Payroll timecards for all the part-time employees are now submitted promptly. (6) Cash receipts and cash disbursement journals are now fully maintained for Capital Projects and general fund projects.

There has been no additional cost to the taxpayers resulting from any of the deficiencies reported in the audit. We are consistently under budget and records are available to any citizen, including Mr. Siegel, who thinks otherwise. Mr. Siegal, whom I have seen at only one Town Board meeting in the past four years, should first acquire an understanding of the issues before casting aspirations (sic) on the competence of our Town Government

Harold Lipton, Supervisor, Town of Rochester (BSP 11/2/01)

Dear Editor:

I read your article on allegations by Councilman Tony Spano. the story implies that our Town Clerk Veronica Sommer was not properly accounting for money taken in at the town transfer station. But it seems that the town board never established an accounting procedure for the transfer station.

The responsibility for the oversight of Town money falls on the Town Board. So my question is this: Why doesn’t the Town Board stand up for Veronica Sommer? Why hasn’t the board investigated the matter, rather than leaving Ms. Sommer to take all the criticism?

As a Rochester citizen and voter, I have dealt with Veronica Sommer for many years. She has served as our Town Clerk and I know that she would not misappropriate public money. Ms. Sommer is running for relection unopposed and will be the Town Clerk for two more years. The Town Board members need to work on the problem with Ms. Sommer rather than sitting back to see which way the political winds are blowing.

Elizabeth Aprea, Accord

Letters to the Editor - Anti Discrimination Resolution (posted 11/1/01)

I am deeply saddened and ashamed by the refusal of the Rochester Town Board to pass (or even second!) the resolution put forth by Tony Spano "to support the right of all people to live and work here free from intimidation and harassment..." It is inconceivable to me how such a truly American sentiment could not have been quickly embraced and unanimously endorsed. Instead the resolution was viewed through a parochial political lens and rejected. I hope Rochester voters will take this irresponsible and mean-spirited position of the Board's majority into consideration this coming Election Day.

Cameron S. Bonner, Kerhonkson

I was deeply disappointed to see that Rochester Town Board members declined to endorse Councilman Anthony Spano’s resolution seeking to reassure residents and business owners of Middle Eastern descent in our town by publicly declaring that our local government will neither accept nor condone any form of bigotry or discrimination… Similar resolutions were adopted unanimously by the Congress and Senate on the heels of President Bush’s similar proclamation.

On September 11, nationals of more than 60 countries lost their lives, including people from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. they were of many faiths and not all were American citizens; each of them made a contribution to our country. It is our responsibility to honor them and their families by ensuring that discrimination is not tolerated in our midst.

Discrimination exists because it is permitted to exist; because people like Supervisor Lipton continue in their ignorant bliss by believing that it does not exist in our community and because they do not speak up when asked.

My grandmother was a Muslim. She prayed each day until she died at the age of 92. She prayed for her family’s health, she prayed for the hungry to be fed, she prayed for tolerance, but most importantly, she prayed for peace.

It’s a shame that our Town Board has chosen not to make a small but vocal stand I support of people in our community who might need reassurance during this difficult time.

Z. Win, Accord

I was outraged by the letter from Z. Win, Sunday, October 14, 2001, regarding the Rochester Town Board members rejection of Mr. Spano's resolution "seeking to reassure residents and business owners of Middle Eastern decent in our town by publicly declaring that our local government will nether accept nor condone any form of bigotry or discrimination."

While indeed similar resolutions were unanimously adopted by Congress, no more need be done. To suggest that discrimination exists because Supervisor Lipton is living in "ignorant bliss" is incredible. It shows just how little Mr. Win knows of Supervisor Lipton and our town. It just might interest Mr. Win to know that after a thorough investigation by Supervisor Lipton, it was concluded that Mr. Win's charges are completely unfounded. The Town of Rochester is honored to have Harold Lipton for Supervisor and thank him for all he has done for our town.

I would like to mention that while my grandmother was not a Muslim, she too prayed everyday. She prayed for justice and liberty for ALL. My grandmother thanked God everyday for allowing her to come to this country because this is without a doubt the greatest country in the world. While we had the "bad" Muslims cause the death of more than 7,000 innocent people, I have not seen any "good" Muslims (and I know there are good Muslims and I know they are out there), express regret for the deeds of the "bad" Muslims; nor have I seen any "good" Muslims voice any praise for this (their adopted) country.

I would say if bigotry and discrimination are allowed to flourish, it is being done under the name of freedom and it is being done against the people of the United States and not by the people of the United States. And, for Mr. Win's information, the people in the United States includes the people in the Town of Rochester.

Phyllis Goodman

Kerhonkson

Grammyshse@aol.com

It has been so distressing to read the comments by Town of Rochester Supervisor Harold Lipton in a news article and by Rochester resident Phyllis Goodman in a recent letter to the editor in which they defend the supervisor’s and town board’s refusal to take a stand against bigotry and discrimination. (Readers of this paper may recall that Councilman Tony Spano proposed that the town board adopt a resolution that would send a strong message to all that "our local government will neither accept nor condone any form of bigotry or discrimination.")

Councilman Spano took a leadership role in speaking out and encouraging others to do the same. How proud we all would have been in Rochester if those we elected to lead us had set such a positive tone for and from our community. What a wonderful example our community could have set for the rest of the county. But rather than taking the opportunity to do something healing, something, in fact, noble, the so-called leaders in this town chose to claim that there’s no need for such a statement because there is no bigotry or discrimination here.

Letter-writer Goodman, in supporting this attitude, takes it a step further. She says she finds it "incredible" that anyone would suggest that "discrimination exists because Supervisor Lipton is living in `ignorant bliss.’" Actually, she’s right—discrimination will exist as long as any of us, not just Lipton, lives in ignorant bliss. Discrimination starts with people who are ignorant and act on their ignorance; discrimination persists because other people fail to take a stand against injustice. Tony Spano spoke out. Lipton and the rest did not. One must ask why, and why Goodman would defend that failure to act positively.

I suggest that it’s instructive to take a closer look at the part of Goodman’s letter in which she says she has "not seen any `good Muslims’… express regret for the deeds of the `bad Muslims.’" Oh, really? Without even getting into the characterization of Muslims as "good" and "bad," since September 11, Muslims in this country and all over the world have publicly denounced the terrorists and continue to mourn with us over the deaths of thousands of people (including Muslims) who died at the hands of those who twist the teachings of Islam beyond recognition.

This fact has been reported prominently in newspapers and in the national broadcast media. This is a fact only a bigot would fail to notice.

Joanne M. Still, Accord

It is indeed a shame and shameful that the Town of Rochester did not pass an Anti-Discrimination Resolution as proposed by Tony Spano. There was at least one confirmed incident at the Sunoco Station in Kerhonkson after the September 11^th tragedy. Three men in KKK "outfits" threatened the workers there. Passing a resolution, seemingly an easy thing to do, is a way of the community declaring that such behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. What is Mr. Lipton’s thinking on this, I wonder!

Verna Gillis, Accord

Letters to the Editor - Town Accounting Problems (Posted 11/1/01)

I know there has been a lot of discussion about my recent report on the Town’s handling of Transfer Station funds, and that many false rumors have distorted both my intent and conclusions. I would like to clarify the record.

The Municipal Works Supervisor reported that approximately $6,000 from the Transfer Station was unaccounted for. Supervisor Lipton and other Town Board members supported my investigation of the matter. Poor cash record keeping makes it nearly impossible to determine the reasons for the shortage; we can’t tell if the money was never collected or if it was misapplied once taken in. The conclusions of my report show (a) poor accounting practices, including the lack of a paper audit trail that prudent oversight would require, and (b) lack of volume/weight records to reconcile against disposal bills.

I have been criticized for reviewing the circumstances with the Ulster County Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s offices. As there was the possibility, however remote, that $6,000 in revenue was missing, it was my legal responsibility as a sworn Town Board member to report it. In addition, such action was necessary to maintain the public trust. I sincerely hope that no criminal wrongdoing took place and I certainly did not intend to accuse anyone of such.

My fellow Town Board members and the Supervisor asked me to investigate, and I fulfilled that responsibility. When the conclusions of that report were damaging to them, since they have ultimate responsibility for the problems, they distanced themselves from the findings. I should also note that they did not express support for the Town Clerk. Despite that, they immediately began to implement some of the changes that I recommended; record keeping has started to improve, and detailed accounting is now being kept thanks to our Town Clerk’s efforts.

What does this all mean? Why should taxpayers care about the accounting of public funds? Lack of accounting permits financial waste to exist and creates an environment in which our public officials can be accused, however falsely, of improprieties. Most importantly, it means that all of us taxpayers will have to pay more of our hard-earned income in taxes because our town’s officials do not properly watch our money.

I have worked hard trying to do what is right for our community. I have worked on our new Community Center, for the Kerhonkson Fire Department, and as a police officer with an untarnished record. We need to have elected officials who will continue to do what is right and not conceal problems for personal political gain.

I challenge my colleagues on the Town Board to handle this matter in an attentive, non-partisan way. I am willing to work with everyone to solve our problems through an open, honest, and thorough examination of fact and hope that you will join our efforts.

Tony Spano

Councilman, Town of Rochester

Despite all the criticism that he’s been receiving, Tony Spano has done our community a great service for bringing up some of the problems related to the Town Transfer Station. While a lot of this flak is a result of his discussion of the way one or two individuals might have performed their jobs, the real problem is the Supervisor and the Town Board’s inattention in dealing with our Town’s finances (Supervisor Lipton admitted that, "sometimes you get lackadaisical" in a recent interview on the Town’s money).

I think the criticism of Tony Spano and the partisan way that the other members of the Town Board have handled this matter, by ignoring its facts and dismissing it, is shameful. The Supervisor and the Town Board are responsible for watching how our Town government does its job. Failing to watch our money responsibly causes waste and higher taxes. It’s time to put partisan politics aside to work together to address the issues, not criticize the bearer of bad news.

Thomas C. Tacti

Thomas C. Tacti, Sr.

I am deeply concerned about recent articles that have discussed the accounting deficiencies in the books and records kept by the Town of Rochester. Four previous audits showed the same problems, representing gross neglect by our elected officials. I do not aim to discredit any individuals or group with the reports. My question is, however, what has been the cost to our taxpayers over the years?

Not having a clear picture of our finances makes it necessary to borrow more (extra town debt) and robs taxpayers of the ability to benefit from long-term planning and associated cost savings. There is no reason that we taxpayers ought to pay more than is necessary.

The present and future Town Board and Supervisor must make every effort to immediately take action to correct these deficiencies. It is not a matter of individuals or political parties, it is a matter of responsibility. If I am elected, our first priority will be to work together with existing town employees to provide proper accounting to our community of the town’s finances.

Richard Siegel

Candidate for Supervisor

I’ve been reading the recent story of Council member Tony Spano’s charges of funds collected at the Town transfer station. This comes on top of news of another audit reporting that our elected officials are not properly minding the taxpayers’ money that they control.

What’s going on? First of all, Supervisor Harold Lipton should have defended Town Clerk Sommer’s actions related to the money. He should have been a man about it and assumed responsibility rather than test the winds to see which way they would blow. There’s loyalty for you. It’s his job to watch the money and to lead the town’s employees. Can Veronica Sommer and Buddy Hornbeck be blamed for a lax attitude that starts at the top? It’s his job to tell them what to do.

These guys are up for re-election. I know I’m going to think a long time for who I vote for this time round.

Dave Leiden

Kerhonkson

Received June 6, 2000

It is a disgrace that on May 18 a Rochester citizen, Stan Breite, was subjected to sudden physical abuse when he was simply trying to deliver information to the Rochester Code Enforcement officer, Douglas Dymond. It is even more of a a disgrace that Supervisor Harold Lipton weighed in by accusing Mr. Breite of being a liar in this paper saying, "I think he's making it up." This is a case of blaming the victim. It is preposterous to make such an accusation. There were people in the building who heard Mr. Breite's alarmed shouts and who are listed as witnesses in the police report. Does Supervisor Lipton seriously think Mr. Breite would file a totally false charge?

Who are we talking about? Mr. Breite was a teacher and principal in NYC public schools for 35 years and is a respected long-term member of this community, a 7 year Rochester Zoning Board chairman and a constant presence in town affairs, political and otherwise. Yes, as Mr. Dymond said, Mr. Breite has had "problems and differences" with the last two town supervisors. The first of these was indicted and jailed by the FBI for accepting bribes and the other's divisiveness and bullying tactics has brought numerous lawsuits against the town....two worthy people with whom to have problems and differences. Democracy depends on dialogue and on people like Mr. Breite who speak up.

Mr. Dymond, on the other hand, under oath on October 29, 1997 refused to answer questions, stated flatly that he had no intention of doing his job as code enforcement officer and contradicted himself many times. Mr. Dymond is now - and has been for sometime - a credibility-challenged individual. At the Town Board on June 1, Supervisor Lipton and the Town Board members agreed to thoroughly look into the incident. I hope, that in spite of Supervisor Lipton's "cover-up" statement to the press, that he will consider all the evidence and personalities involved. To do so might save the town another lawsuit. This unprovoked physical attack in a public office is a very serious matter and one that has raised a sense of outrage in the community.

Judging by the June 1 meeting, Supervisor Lipton seems to be running much more open and courteous town board meetings than his predecessor. It is a welcome change and I hope that this quality of public respect for the audience will be an ongoing policy.

Lorna Massie
lornakim@earthlink.net

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NEWS ARCHIVE

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News from 2001

Kerhonkson Man Killed in Hunting Incident (12/10/01)

School Board Member Proposes Parking Ban (12/10/01)

Municipalities to Absorb Part of Public Assistance Cost (12/10/01)

The Rochester Town Board Notes (12/10/01)

Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Receives Easement (12/10/01)

Bear Killed in Village of Alligerville (12/10/01)

Database of Farm Subsidies (12/10/01)

Holiday Senior Brunch and Children’s Holiday Party (12/10/01)

Date Set for Faux Academy Awards (12/10/01)

Fewer Firms Hiring According to Manpower, Inc. (12/10/01)

Legal Notice - Bids Sought (12/10/01)

Accord Fire District Election to be Held on December 11 (12/10/01)

Accord Fire District - Surplus Equipment Sale (12/10/01)

	Election Results (11/18/01)
	Open House at New Community Center (11/18/01)
	Lapp Log Yard Use Variance Denied (11/18/01)
	Little One’s Library Acquires New Books (11/18/01)
	Accord Fire District Elections on December 11 (11/18/01)

Candidates Night - October 29, 2001 (11/1/01)

New School Board Member (11/1/01)

KAFAS Classes for November 2001 (11/1/01)

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Fundraising Dinner (revised)Democratic Fundraisers (11/1/01)

Absentee Ballot Deadline (11/1/01)

Candidates Night on October 29 (11/1/01)

Kerhonkson & Accord Emergency Services Volunteers Raise $17,000 for WTC Relief (11/1/01)

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Annual Fundraiser (11/1/01)

Republican Candidate Cited by DEC (11/1/01)

Lapp Log Yard Hearing Closed (11/1/01)

Deer Season Dates for 2001 (11/1/01)

tate Audit Finds Town of Rochester Bookkeeping Flawed (10/13/01)

Republican Council Candidated Fined by DEC (10/13/01)

Councilman's Report of Investigation of Losses at Town Transfer Station (10/13/01)

Rochester Board Opts Against Unity resolution (10/13/01)

Meet the Candidates Night (10/13/01)

Rochester Residents Association, Inc. Announces Membership Drive (10/13/01)

Three Seek Vacant Seat on Rondout Valley School Board (10/13/01)

Deer Season Dates for 2001 (10/13/01)

High Falls Fire District Notice of Vote (10/13/01)

	Money Missing From Town Funds (9/30/01
	State audit faults Rochester's fiscal records (9/30/01)
	Audit Report Summary (9/30/01)
	Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continuation (9/30/01)
	Musical Petting Zoo Arrives at the Little Ones' Library (9/30/01)
	School District Request for Bids (9/30/01)
	Audit Report - Legal Notice (9/30/01)

	Republicans and Conservatives Select Town Government Nominees (9/19/01)
	Town Democrats Select Candidates (9/19/01)
	Local Business Persons Harassed (9/19/01)
	Farm Produce Donations Sought for New York City Relief Workers (9/19/01)
	Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Event (9/19/01)
	Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Classes (9/19/01)
	CRAFT FAIR-Draft Horse Festival (9/19/01)
	Find Out About 4-H: Open House Welcomes Newcomers (9/19/01)
	Notice from Kerhonkson Lions Club (9/19/01)
	Granit Hotel Employee Reunion (9/19/01)
	RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT TAX NOTICE (9/19/01)
	Town Democratic Caucus Notice (9/19/01)

Upcoming Nominating Caucuses (9/3/01)

State Orders Town to Fix Oil Leak at Transfer Station (9/3/01)

Town Considers Sale of Land Adjacent to Transfer Station (9/3/01)

Discussion of Planning Board Attendance (9/3/01)

School Starting Postponed (9/3/01)

Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continued to September 11 (9/3/01)

Little Ones’ Library Update (9/3/01)

Church Celebrates Tricentennial (9/3/01)

Tax Rates Set in Local Communities (9/3/01)

Accord Fire District Legal Notice (9/3/01)

	Local Evidence of West Nile (8/21/01)
	Town Nominating Caucuses (8/21/01)
	Kerhonkson Synagogue (8/21/01)
	Subdivision Hearing (8/21/01)

	Second Fatality at High Falls 8/7/01
	Accord Community Festival 8/7/01
	Party Nominating Caucuses 8/7/01
	Mombaccus Requests Gravel Mine Increase 8/7/01
	Kerhonkson Synagogue Hosts BBQ 8/7/01
	Elk in the Catskills 8/7/01
	Legal Notice: School District Bids 8/7/01

	Accord Community Festival (7/27/01)
	Rondout Valley School Budget (7/27/01)
	Legal Notice: Logyard Hearing (7/27/01)

	Election 2001 - Candidates (7/9/01)
	Log Yard Hearing Postponed (7/9/01)
	Local Farm Receives Barn Restoration Grant (7/9/01)
	Aerial Survey of the Town of Rochester Available On-Line (7/9/01)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (7/9/01)
	No Agreement on School Budget (7/9/01)
	Legal Notice - Tax Assessment Roll Complete (7/9/01)
	Legal Notice - Bond Issue (7/9/01)
	Legal Notice - Planning Board Hearings (7/9/01

	Rondout Valley School Budget Rejected by Voters (6/20/01)
	Cell Tower Use Permit Granted (6/20/01)
	Restaurant Special Use Permit Granted (6/20/01)
	Updated Comprehensive Plan? (6/20/01)
	Copies of Town Master Plan Available (6/20/01)
	Democrats Wanted: (6/20/01)
	Legal Notice: Planning Board (6/20/01)
	Legal Notice: School Transportation Bids (6/20/01)
	Legal Notice: School Budget Revote (6/20/01)

	Ulster County Tax Lien Sale (5/22/01)
	School Budget Defeated - Re-vote Scheduled (5/22/01)
	Planning Board to Meet on Route 209 Property Boundary Change (5/22/01)
	Legal Notice of Safe Schools Hearing (5/22/01)

	Forest Fire in Accord (5/6/2001)
	School Budget Vote to Take Place on May 15 (5/6/2001)
	Ulster County Air Quality Rated D (5/6/2001)
	Democratic Committee of Rochester Seeks Members and Candidates (5/6/2001)
	Cottage for rent (5/6/2001)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (5/6/2001)
	Legal Notice: Town of Rochester Tax Roll (5/6/2001)
	Legal Notice: Budget Vote (5/6/2001)
	Legal Notice: Tan Associates (5/6/2001)

Accord Speedway Sold (4/24/01)

Development for Kyserike Road and Route 209 Proposed (4/24/01)

Rondout Valley School Board Proposes 2001-2002 Budget (4/24/01)

Candidates for School Board Seats (4/24/01)

Rochester Town Board Tied on Hudson Dredging (4/24/01)

Stone House Tour (4/24/01)

The Kerhonkson Rail Trail (4/24/01)

Legal Notice - Trailers (4/24/01)

Rochester Food Pantry Needs Volunteers (4/24/01)

Kerhonkson Lions' Penny Social (4/24/01)

New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation Notices and Environmental Notice Bulletin.

Legal Notices (See News & Opinion Page for Legal Notice Archive)

Letters to the Editor

Ulster County Tax Lien Sale (5/22/01)

School Budget Defeated - Re-vote Scheduled (5/22/01)

Planning Board to Meet on Route 209 Property Boundary Change (5/22/01)

Legal Notice of Safe Schools Hearing (5/22/01)

Town Resident Files Notice of Suit (4/8/01)

Town Board Notes (4/8/01)

Local Scholarship Announced (4/8/01)

Hudson Valley Economy Slower According to Report (4/8/01)

Rondout School District Votes to Prohibit Boy Scout Sponsorship (4/8/01)

Traffic Concerns Near High School (4/8/01)

School Bus in Traffic Accident on Kyserike Road (4/8/01)

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Offers Classes (4/8/01)

Alligerville Resident Arrested (4/8/01)

	Local Resident Alleges Physical Assault by Highway Department Workers (3/19/01)
	Local Resident Withdraws Physical Harassment Complaint Against Code Enforcement Officer (3/19/01)
	Illegal Excavation on Wetlands (3/19/01)
	Fatal Auto Accident in Kerhonkson (3/19/01)
	Census Indicates Population Growth in Town and County (3/19/01)
	Kyserike Road Log Yard Hearing Postponed (3/19/01)
	Cell Tower Proposed in Kripplebush (3/19/01)
	Ulster County Job Fair (3/19/01)
	Little Ones' Library Updated Information (3/19/01)
	Accord Fire District Legal Notice (3/19/01)
	Bond Issuance Legal Notices (2) (3/19/01)
	Legal Notice: Log Yard (3/19/01)

	Town Board Meeting Discussion on Metro Recycling Mine (3/4/01)
	Town Considers Park on Stonykill (3/4/01)
	Unlicensed Mine on Queens Highway (3/4/01)
	Zoning Board to Hold Public Hearing on Kyserike Road Log Yard (3/4/01)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Officers Elected for 2001 (3/4/01)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Gives CPR Lessons (3/4/01)
	Survey on Local Job Growth (3/4/01)
	Horticultural Hotline (3/4/01)
	Kerhonkson Revitalization (3/4/01)
	Rondout Valley Ganders win Basketball Championship (3/4/01)
	Catskill Animal Sanctuary Saves Two Horses (3/4/01)
	Legal Notice: Time Warner Cable Franchise Renewal (3/4/01)
	Letter to the Editor: Vandermark Zoning (3/4/01)

Update on Queens Highway Mine (2/6/01)

Spano Calls on DEC to Hold Public Hearing (2/6/01)

Local Animal Shelter Operators Face Charges (2/6/01)

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (2/6/01)

Rochester Youth Center Grant (1/21/01)

Rondout Valley School District Grant (1/21/01)

Continued Strong Real Estate Prices in 2000 (1/21/01)

Legal Notice: Road Abandonment (1/21/01)

Letter to the Editor: Rock Mountain Farms Mine (1/21/01)

Letter to the Editor: Code Enforcement (1/21/01)

	School Bus Accident in Kerhonkson (1/8/01)
	Douglas Dymond Trial Postponed (1/8/01)
	Catskill Animal Sanctuary Finds Home (1/8/01)
	Stretch of Route 209 Renamed for Peg Leg Bates (1/8/01)
	Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Offers First Aid and CPR Training (1/8/01)
	Town Democratic Committee News (1/8/01)
	Legal Notice: Planning Board to Review Route 209 Log Yard Permit Application (1/8/01)
	Legal Notice: 2001 Property Taxes (1/8/01)
	Rochester STAR Exemption Filing Deadline is March 1, 2001 (1/8/01)
	Legal Notice: Monthly Town Board Meetings (1/8/01)
	DEC Negative Declaration: Queens Highway Mine (1/8/01)

	Nine Acres on Route 209 Rezoned (12/26/00)
	Notice of Completed Application for Queen's Highway Mine (12/26/00)
	Code Enforcement Officer Arraigned (12/26/00)
	New Assistant Code Enforcement Officer Appointed (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Town Seeks Bids for Land Clearing (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Town Seeks Bids for Land Clearing (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Town Board 12/28/00 End of Year Business Meeting (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Town Board 2001 Organizational Meeting (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Accord Fire District 2001 Organizational Meeting (12/26/00)
	Legal Notice: Rondout Valley Central School District Fire Inspection Report (12/26/00)

	Rondout Valley Ganders Football win at State Championships (12/3/00)
	Ulster County Planning Board Recommends Rejection of Route 209 Commercial Rezoning (12/3/00)
	Animal Shelter Established in Accord (12/3/00)
	Friends of Historic Rochester Christmas Candlelight House Tour (12/3/00)
	Kerhonkson Lions to Visit Brookside and Kerhonkson Schools (12/3/00)
	Legal Notice: Pioneer Village Liquors (12/3/00)
	Tony Spano Wins Town Board Election (11/22/00)

	Town Board Seat Election Preliminary Results (11/8/00)
	Route 209 Rezoning Hearing (11/6/00)
	Cable Television Franchise Renewed (11/6/00)
	Puppet Show at Little Ones Library (11/6/00)
	New Auction Business in Accord (11/6/00)
	Fire on Waterfall Road (11/6/00)
	Legal Notice - Accord Rural Cemetery (11/6/00)
	Legal Notice - Rondout Valley Veterinarian (11/6/00)

	Town Board to Review Change of Zoning of Residential District (10/22/00)
	Queen's Highway Mining Operation Update (10/22/00)
	Planning Board Reviews Log Yard Permit (10/22/00)
	Surplus Equipment Sale (10/22/00)
	Property Sales Information (10/22/00)
	County Zoning Map Now On-Line (10/22/00)
	Airport Road Subdivision (10/22/00)

Renovation on Community Center and Town Offices Begins (10/10/00)

Rochester Youth Commission Seeks Nominations (10/10/00)

Stone Ridge Historic House Tour to be Held October 14 (10/10/00)

Rochester Cable TV Franchise Hearing (10/10/00)

Princess Diana Lenska Theatre Opens (10/10/00)

Funds Received for Historic Museum (10/10/00)

Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Adopts New Financial Reporting Requirements (10/10/00)

Hunting Season Dates (9/7/00)

Tara Equine Center Changes Hands (10/10/00)

Tip to Toe Opens in Accord (10/10/00)

Dave's Auto Care Opens (10/10/00)

Dr. Holly Elliott Establishes Practice (10/10/00)

	Democrats Nominate Spano (9/27/00)
	Queens Highway Mine Update (9/27/00)
	Voter Registration (9/27/00)

	Special Town Democratic Caucus, Monday, Sept. 18
	Lions Club Special Awards, Tuesday, September 12
	Thinkfit "Minds in Motion" 5K, October 22
	School Taxes Announced (9/7/00)
	School Capital Expenditures Bids Exceed Voter-Approved Amount (9/7/00)
	Hunting Season Dates (9/7/00)
	There were no Environmental Notice Bulletin (9/7/00)
	Legal Notice - Planning Board Meeting (9/7/00)

	Zoning Board Hears Van Demark Appeal (8/28/00)
	Zoning Board Denies Trailer Park Area Variance (8/28/00)
	Jewish Center Vandalized (8/28/00)
	Election Deadlines Approach (8/22/00)
	Hillary Clinton Coming to Kingston (8/22/00)
	Legal Notices (8/22/00)
	Rochester Street and Park Festival (8/9/2000)
	School District Considering Senior Citizen Tax Exemption (8/9/2000)
	Zoning Board Of Appeals Meeting Notice (8/9/2000)
	Ulster County's Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board (8/9/2000)
	West Nile Virus Found in Rochester (8/9/2000)
	Environmental Notice Bulletin for 8/9/2000

	Little One's Library (7/19/00)
	Harassment Investigation Follow Up (7/17/00)
	Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Notes (7/17/00)
	Kerhonkson Renewal/ Kerhonkson Lions Club (7/17/00)
	School District Seeks Bids (7/17/00)
	Environmental Notice (7/17/00)
	Town Bond Issue (7/17/00)
	Planning Board to Discuss Airport Road Subdivision (7/17/00)
	Zoning Board of Appeals Hearing (7/9/00)
	Town of Rochester Purchases Agway Property (7/9/00)
	Town of Rochester Cable Television Francise Hearing (7/9/00)
	Festival on Main Street (7/4/00)

Environmental Notice Bulletin (6/21/00)

Legal Notices (6/21/00)

Voters Approve Revised School District Budget 6/22/00)

Citizens Accord to Appeal Racetrack Suit Dismissal (6/22/00)

Swimming at Minnewaska (6/21/00)

Harassment Investigation (6/15/00)

Zoning Lawsuit Update (6/15/00)

Route 209 Closed Due to Flooding (6/15/00)

Rondout Valley Central School District Budget Vote II (6/5/2000)

Saunderskill Farm - Bicentennial Farm Award (6/5/2000)

New Roof for Town Hall (6/5/2000)

Harrassment Complaint Filed Against Town Employee (6/5/2000)

New Area Code for Hudson Valley and Catskill Region (6/5/2000)

Dept. of Environmental Conservation Announces Draft Visual Impact Guidelines (6/5/2000)

Self Storage Facility Plans Approved for Route 209 (6/5/2000)

	Kerhonkson Downtown Renewal Update (5/29/00)
	Self Storage Facility Special Use Permit Granted for Mettacahonts Road (5/29/00)
	54th Annual Stone Ridge Library Fair (5/17/00)
	Stone Ridge Library Fair (5/17/00)
	Rondout Valley Central School District Budget Rejected (5/17/00)
	Rondout Valley Central School District Election Results (5/17/00)
	D&H Canal Sunday Market (5/7/00)
	Rondout Valley Central School District Budget -- Voting is May 16th (5/4/00)
	Kerhonkson Downtown Renewal (5/4/00)
	Self Storage Facility Applications (5/4/00)
	Tax Assessments -- Tax Grievance Day is May 23rd (5/4/00)
	Elk in the Town of Rochester? (5/4/00)
	Rondout Valley Central HS Reunion Classes of 1964-67 (5/00)
	Metro Recycling & Crushing Application - Queens Highway (4/20/00)

Election Results (11/18/01)

The unofficial results of the November 6 local elections indicate the following:

Supervisor: Harold Lipton (R,C) defeated Richard Siegel (D)

Town Clerk: Veronica Sommer (R,C) unopposed

Highway Superintendent: Wayne Kelder (R,C,D) unopposed

Town Justice: Ronaly Keilor Jr. (R,C) unopposed

Town Council: Randy Hoornbeek (R,C) and Tom Ryan (R,C) defeated Brinton Baker (D) and Tony Spano (D)

County Legislator:

Vincent Dunn (R,C)

Susan Cummings (R,C)

Edward Jenning (R,C)

Gerald DePew (R,C)

Richard Parete (D)

Final certified results will be posted when they are made available by the Ulster County Board of Elections.

Kerhonkson Man Killed in Hunting Incident (12/10/01)

A Kerhonkson man was shot to death and the Orange County man he was hunting with has been charged with criminally negligent homicide, Ulster County Sheriff's Capt. Harry Van Vliet said. Sheriff's deputies responding 11/24/01 to a 911 call to undeveloped land off Lundy Road found the body of Thomas J. Mann, 30, of 55 Braziel Heights Road, Kerhonkson, authorities said. Van Vliet said Mann died from a single gunshot wound to the head, adding that the shot came from the rifle of Leslie E. Miller, 41, of 25 Oregon Trail, Walker Valley. Miller was arrested and charged with the felony later that day, according to Van Vliet. Mann, Miller and two others were part of the same hunting party, Van Vliet said, but they were stalking game separately when the shooting happened. Van Vliet said Sunday the investigation soon discovered Miller had shot Mann while Mann was standing in an open field. Saying that the investigation is still active, Van Vliet declined to say if the shooting was an accident. He did say sheriff's deputies believe Miller's actions satisfy the legal definition of criminally negligent homicide, which he defined as "failing to perceive a substantial and justifiable risk" of someone being killed. Miller was arraigned in Hurley Town Court and sent to Ulster County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail or a $20,000 bond, pending a future court appearance. (Freeman 11/26/01)

School Board Member Proposes Parking Ban (12/10/01)

Rondout Valley school board member Michael Redmond asked the Rochester Town Board on Thursday to pass a local law prohibiting parking near the high school entrance on Kyserike Road. Redmond said he has been working with town Highway Superintendent Wayne Kelder for about six months to determine who would be responsible for limiting parking along Kyserike Road. At least one member of the Town Board feels the parking issue should be addressed by Ulster County because Kyserkie is a county-maintained road. Redmond said it's dangerous for students to park on Kyserike Road because their cars block the sight lines of school bus drivers and other drivers entering and leaving the school property. The result, he said, is students on the buses and those walking near their cars could be injured in accidents. If the town does not prohibit parking, it could be held liable in the event of an accident, he said. Town Board members were reluctant to restrict parking, and they said the situation is nothing new. Councilman Bill Carroll said the problem is rooted in the fact that the school doesn't allow students to park on school But if the law is to change, the county should do it, he said. Councilman-elect Thomas Ryan said the Town Board should look into its options because the state's Vehicle and Traffic Law says municipalities have the right to enact ordinances related to parking along local road. "The statutory authority comes from you (the Town Board)," Ryan said. (Freeman 11/30/01)

Municipalities to Absorb Part of Public Assistance Cost (12/10/01)

The Mid-Hudson region has begun rolling over Temporary Family Assistance cases into a non-federally funded program as they reach their 60-month limit for receiving federally funded benefits. The Ulster County Commissioner of Social Services Glenn Decker said his office prepared for the Dec. 1 rollover all year. In Ulster County, under the current system, the cost of assisting families who have reached their 60-month limit will fall evenly on the state and municipalities. The county will continue to share the cost of funding Temporary Assistance recipients whose federal benefits have not expired, but not those whose federal benefits are up. It is believed that only one family in the Town of Rochester will be immediately affected. According to Decker, approximately 110 cases will reach their 60-month limit over the course of 2002, of which approximately three cases are in the Town of Rochester. (Freeman 12/9/01)

The Rochester Town Board Notes

The Rochester Town Board voted to increase the salaries of the Youth Commission director and clerk. The Youth Commission Director work hours were increased from 35 to 40 per week, and her salary was increased $2,000 per year, from $22,740 to$24,740. The clerk was given a raise of 50 cents per hour. In other town business, Brinton Baker, the town's representative to the Scenic Byway Committee, said the group will hold a meeting to update its progress from 4-6 p.m. Monday at the Mohonk Preserve Visitors' Center on U.S. Route 44/state Route 55. People interested in attending should call Baker at (845) 626-4932. An avid bicycle rider, Baker also suggested the board begin planning a townwide road cleanup for sometime around Earth Day 2002, which falls on April 22. Board members said they would hold a workshop meeting to begin planning the cleanup. (Freeman 12/9/01)

Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Receives Easement (12/10/01)

The Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy received easements on two properties from Eric Hertz, a local resident and international adventure guide. The properties were 120 acres and 125 acres located off Stony Road in Accord. The two adjacent properties protect a diversified landscape that increased in elevation through mountain laurel up to heath , chestnut oak, and finally to pitch-pine oak with exposed slabrock. For more information please call the conservancy at 845-687-7553.

Bear Killed in Village of Alligerville (12/10/01)

A bear was killed in the village of Alligerville. .the weight is not yet known, the bear stood 7 and a half feet tall, according to a report from a local resident. It took four men to get the bear from the woods.

Database of Farm Subsidies (12/10/01)

The Wall Street Journal recently mentioned the Environmental Working Group’s nationwide online database of farm subsidies, www.ewg.org. According to the database, Ulster County farmers received approximately $1.9 million in farm subsidies from 1996 to 2000. This figure includes approximately $290,000 in the same period granted to farmers in Accord and Kerhonkson. (WSJ 11/30/01)

Holiday Senior Brunch and Children’s Holiday Party (12/10/01)

A brunch for seniors and a children’s holiday party will be held on Saturday, December 8^th from 10:45 am to 12:15 pm at the Community Center, Santa will be arriving at 12:30 with gifts for all children. Space is limited, call the Community Center to sign up 626-2115

Date Set for Faux Academy Awards (12/10/01)

The Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce has announced that its annual Faux Academy Awards Dinner Dance fundraiser will take place on June 1, 2002 at the Twin Lakes Lodge in Hurlay. The event will honor Franklyn Kelder and Jack Schoonmaker, as well as Rabbi Alice Stein. The event raises funds for a performing arts scholarship for a Rondout Valley High School senior. (BSP 12/7/01)

Fewer Firms Hiring According to Manpower, Inc. (12/10/01)

Revising an earlier forecast of an increased hiring trend beginning in the fourth quarter of this year, an international staffing solutions firm now predicts a rough economic climate in the Mid-Hudson Valley this winter. Manpower spokesman Jim Challen said the most dramatic turnaround reported in employer surveys was in Ulster County, where just 20 percent of employers foresee hiring new staff. In addition, 30 percent plan job cuts and 43 percent expect no changes, he added. Seven percent were reportedly undecided, he said. In the previous survey, 60 percent of employers said they would need more workers and 7 percent expected cuts. Cutbacks are planned in construction, non-durable goods manufacturing and public administration. Challen said the statistics are seasonally adjusted to reflect the holiday season labor pool hired by the retail sector toward the end of the year and, in many cases, discharged after New Year's Day. (Freeman 11/19/01)

Legal notice - Zoning Board of Appeals (12/10/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning Board of Appeals (sic) of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 12th day of December 2001, at 7:00 p.m., at the Town Hall, located at 50 Scenic Rd., Accord, NY, on Application by Michele Riley and Tammy Monti requesting relief from Area Variance granted on June 21, 1978, prohibiting further subdivision of parcel, known as Evergreen Apartments, and located at 295 Mettacahonts Road, Accord, NY, on Tax Map 68.019-0302.1, 12, 13 and 14 and in an R-2 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicants must be present or represented at the hearing. (Freeman 11/29/01)

Legal Notice - Bids Sought (12/10/01)

LEGAL NOTICE Invitation To Bid The Arrowhead Farm, 5941 Route 209, Kerhonkson, New York 12446, is seeking bids for the construction of a barn yard water quality project to be funded by the New York State Clean Air/Clean Water Bond Act of 1996. Bids shall include the following major items of work: Rectangular, concrete waste storage structure, dimensions of 8' x 120' x 172' Construction is to occur between May 15, 2002 and May 30, 2002. Prospective bidders will receive a bid package that contains a location map, instructions to bidders, a sample contract, plans and specifications, and a bid sheet. Bid packages may be obtained by contacting the Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District, Time Square Professional Office Building, 652 Route 299, Suite 103, Highland, NY 12528, telephone (845) 883-7162, ext. 5. Prospective bidders may assemble for a group site showing at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, November 30, 2001, at the Arrowhead Farm, 5941 Route 209 in Kerhonkson, New York. Sealed bids marked ``Ulster County Farm, Arrowhead Farm, Peter Davis'' will be accepted until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 14, 2001, and will be opened publicly at 3:00 p.m. on the same day. Bids should be submitted by mail or in person to the Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District, Time Square Professional Office Building, 652 Route 299, Suite 103, Highland, NY 12528. Small and minority businesses or women's business enterprises are encouraged to respond to the invitation for bids. All inquiries about the bid solicitation must be addressed to the Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation Office and not the farm. The Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Directors reserve the right to waive any informalities and the right to reject any and all bids. (Freeman 11/19/01)

Accord Fire District Election to be Held on December 11 (12/10/01)

Please take notice that the Annual Election at the Accord Fire District will take place on December 11, 2001 between the hours of 6 P.M. and 9 P.M. at the CO.1 & CO. 2 Fire Houses, for the purpose of electing One (1) Commissioner for a Five (5) year term commencing on January 1, 2002 and ending on December 31, 2006. All duly registered residents of the Accord Fire District shall be eligible to vote. Candidates for the district office shall file their name in writing with the Secretary of the Fire District, Alexander Chalm, PO Box 163, Accord, N.Y. 12404 no later than November 21, 2001. In addition the Accord Board of Fire Commissioners wish to change its policy regarding the election of the Treasurer every 3 years and making it a permanent appointed position subject to change if needed at the discretion of the Board. Said position to start January 1, 2002. Alexander Chalm District Secretary Kingston Freeman (11/13/01)

Accord Fire District - Surplus Equipment Sale (12/10/01)

For Sale: The Accord Fire Dept. is soliciting bids for surplus equipment consisting of a 12 foot enclosed utility box, with removal of equipment by the bidder. Inspection will take place on December 12 from 7 P.M. to 9 P.M. at the Accord Fire House on Main St. Accord N.Y. All bids are to be submitted by December 19, 2001 at which time the Board of Fire Commissioners can reject any or all bids. Accord Fire District Alexander Chalm District Secretary (Freeman 12/9/01)

Open House Held at New Community Center (11/18/01)

An open house was held on November 14 at the Town’s new Community Center located in the former Agway Building in downtown Accord. The property was purchased in 2000 to house the Community Center and the Zoning, Planning, and Code Enforcement offices. The building was renovated with money provided by the Town, state, Chamber of Commerce and private donations. The Center will be open Monday through Thursdays from 2:30 to 6:00 pm. Special programs including Teen nights will be held on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. For further information call the Center at 626-2115.

Lapp Log Yard Variance Denied (11/18/01)

At the November 14 meeting of the ZBA, Robert Lapp's application for a use variance to store and mulch logs was denied. The matter has been pending for nearly a year and was denied based on Lapp's failure to complete a SEQRA level 1 review as requested by the ZBA, and failure to meet any of the legally permitted criteria under which such a use variance could be granted. According to the Town's attorney, the Code Enforcement Officer would be notified of the decision for enforcement. The discussion on a citation issued to Steve Vandemark was delayed. (11/16/01)

Little One’s Library Acquires Additional Books (11/18/01)

The Little Ones' Library on Saturday morning celebrated the arrival of 75 new children's books from the Libri Foundation's Books for Children. Based in Eugene, Ore., the Libri Foundation donates high quality children's books to small rural public libraries across America. Sue Matson, from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, said the Libri grant, awarded this spring, allowed the Little Ones' Library to triple donations from Joe and Ian Springer Memorial Gifts, Stewart's Ice Cream Shop and the WGHQ Happy Christmas Fund. The organizations donated a total of $350 toward the double matching grant, she said, giving the library $1,050 to purchase new books. A program of the Cooperative Extension, the library was created to fill a need in the Accord-Kerhonkson area, since no other libraries exist between Stone Ridge and Ellenville, Matson said. Its primary goal is to serve children from birth to 6 years old, by building programs that promote literacy and language development experiences, she said. The library is in the Rochester Reformed Church at 5142 U.S. Route 209 in Accord, opposite the bus garage. For information, call Matson at (845) 340-3990 or Marie Ulmer at (845) 626-4112. (Freeman 11/14/01)

Accord Fire District Election to be Held on December 11 (11/18/01)

Please take notice that the Annual Election at the Accord Fire District will take place on December 11, 2001 between the hours of 6 P.M. and 9 P.M. at the CO.1 & CO. 2 Fire Houses, for the purpose of electing One (1) Commissioner for a Five (5) year term commencing on January 1, 2002 and ending on December 31, 2006. All duly registered residents of the Accord Fire District shall be eligible to vote. Candidates for the district office shall file their name in writing with the Secretary of the Fire District, Alexander Chalm, PO Box 163, Accord, N.Y. 12404 no later than November 21, 2001. In addition the Accord Board of Fire Commissioners wish to change its policy regarding the election of the Treasurer every 3 years and making it a permanent appointed position subject to change if needed at the discretion of the Board. Said position to start January 1, 2002. Alexander Chalm District Secretary Kingston Freeman (11/13/01)

Candidates Night - October 29, 2001 (11/1/01)

Democrats Richard Siegel and Brinton Baker, candidates for Supervisor and Town Counci, respectively attended a Candidates Night at the Accord Fire House on October 29 and met with local residents and members of a high school class on politics and government. Republican Candidates Harold Lipton, Tom Ryan and Randy Hoornbeek did not attend.

New School Board Member (11/01/01)

Rondout Valley school board members have appointed Richard Lanzarone to fill a vacant seat on the board until the May 2002 election. Lanzarone's appointment came during a meeting on Tuesday, when he was selected from among four candidates to fill the position that opened when Chic Sciarrino resigned earlier this year from the nine-member board. Lanzarone, 50, of 146 Bone Hollow Road, Accord, is the administrative director at Kingston Hospital. (Daily Freeman)

KAFAS Classes for November 2001 (11/01/01)

CPR- Nov. 7 & 14; First Aid- Nov. 17; Child Care & Baby Sitting- Nov. 24; This class is free for 11-15 yr. old; Course being sponsoredby KAFAS & Kerhonkson Lions. Limited enrollment. For info or to enroll- Call 626-3023

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Fundraising Dinner (11/01/01)

Due to changes in the economy over the past several years, the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad has discontinued its Annual Fund Raising Dinner, which has been held for more than 30 years. The members of the KAFAS would like to thank the community for making the event a success for so many years. The KAFAS will distribute an annual publication to provide the community with information regarding the organization and request voluntary contributions. The KAFAS is a volunteer organization that provides emergency medical services to the community and is usually the first medical response unit to accidents, home injuries, etc. The group also provides CPR classes to members of the community. Tax deductible contributions are strongly encouraged and can be made by making a check payable to "Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad" and mailed to P.O. Box 67 Kerhonkson, New York 12446, Kerhonkson, NY 12446. (please note new address from previous posting).

Fundraisers (11/01/01)

We have been asked to announce the following fundraisers:

Marbletown Democratic Committee: US Congressman Maurice Hinchey on National Security a Local Issue. Sunday October 28, 5-7:00 pm Clove Café, High Falls, Call Donna at 687-7911 to confirm.

Democratic Legislative Candidates, Shanghai Red Restaurant, in the village of Ellenville, Sat. Oct 27 12-2:00. Maurice Hinchey will attend $25.00 per person. Call Steve Krulick for information 647-8809.

Absentee Ballot Deadline (11/01/01)

The deadline for completing an absentee ballot application is October 30. Applications must be mailed to the Ulster County Board of Elections office and postmarked by that date.

Candidates Night is October 29 (11/01/01)

A meet the candidates night has been confirmed for Monday, October 29 at 7:30 pm at the Accord Fire House on Main Street in Accord. Democratic candidates for Town Supervisor and Town Council have confirmed their attendance, however, after prolonged discussions, the Republican candidates have not yet indicated if they will attend.

Kerhonkson & Accord Emergency Services Volunteers Raise $17,000 for WTC Relief (11/01/01)

The Kerhonkson Fire Department initiated a gathering of local fire and EMS companies and held a "Coin Day" asking for contributions for World Trade Center relief. Over 60 volunteers gathered on September 15 from the Kerhonkson Fire Department, Kerhonkson Fire Ladies Auxiliary, Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad and Accord Fire Companies Nos. 1 and 2 and raised $17,000, which was donated to radio station WPDH’s "Finest and Bravest Relief Fund."

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Fundraising Dinner (11/01/01)

Due to changes in the economy over the past several years, the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad has discontinued its Annual Fund Raising Dinner, which has been held for more than 30 years. The members of the KAFAS would like to thank the community for making the event a success for so many years. The KAFAS will distribute an annual publication to provide the community with information regarding the organization and request voluntary contributions. The KAFAS is a volunteer organization that provides emergency medical services to the community and is usually the first medical response unit to accidents, home injuries, etc. The group also provides CPR classes to members of the community. Tax deductible contributions are strongly encouraged and can be made by making a check payable to "Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad" and mailed to 15 Grandview Ave., Kerhonkson, NY 12446.

Republican Candidate Cited by DEC (11/01/01)

Republican Town Council candidate Randy Hornbeck, Sr. was cited for allegedly filling in wetlands illegally at property located on Route 209 near the corner of Kyserike Road. He was cited in March 2001 and in August 20001 executed a consent decree with the Department of Environmental Conservation in which he agreed to an $11,000 fine and restoration of certain parts of the property. A portion of the fine, $3,000, will be suspended if certain conditions are met within 30 days. According to the DEC, Hornbeck was previously fined for a similar violation on property on the opposite side of Route 209 near the former Hornbeck Fuel garage. While the candidate’s son is also named Randy Hornbeck, the candidate spells his name Hoornbeek. The DEC citation is issued in the name of "Randy Hornbeck Sr." with the candidate’s date of birth and resident’s address. In addition, the fines were paid drawn on two accounts held in the name Hoornbeek. (10/16/01)

Lapp Log Yard Hearing Closed (11/01/01)

The Zoning Board of Appeals at its meeting on October 9, 2001 closed the public comment period on Robert Lapp's application for a use variance related to his log storage business located at 325 Kyserike Road. Neither Mr. Lapp nor his attorney were present. Correspondence has been received by the ZBA from interested parties who were present. The ZBA chair indicated that Mr. Lapp had not completed the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) long form as previously required by the ZBA at a prior meeting. The ZBA has 45 days (November 23) to determine if the use variance will be granted.

Deer Season Dates for 2001 (11/01/01)

Regular: Nov. 19 - Dec. 11 Archery Oct. 15 to Nov. 18 and Dec. 12 to Dec. 16

State Audit Finds Town of Rochester Bookkeeping Flawed (10/13/01)

After a six month examination, the Office of the State Comptroller found that
the accounting records for the Town's 2000 fiscal year are incomplete. Similar findings were reported in the 1989, 1992, and 1995 audits. The report also states that Town Supervisor Harold Lipton also did not provide detailed reports of funds received and disbursed by him as required by State Law. In summary, the town was faulted for: failing to post general journals, ledgers and revenue and expenditure dedgers; failing to keep inventory of fixed assets; Town Supervisor failing to report revenues and expenditures; failing to keep track of hours worked by several town employees; failing to keep inventory of motor fuels purchased by the town. Several of these items were cited in each of the preceding audits, indicating that little if any improvement had been made. (See related article in Blue Stone Press 10/5/01)

Poor accounting of revenue and expenses as well as failure to keep track of town assets as required by law, means a higher potential for waste and mismanagement of town resources, greater difficulty in verifying the fidelity of elected officials and employees who handle money, and an inability to develop long-term financial plans and budgets, according to a state handbook on town government finance. Each of these could cause higher taxes.

To view a chart that compares the four most recent audits, click here. The May 3, 2001 audit can be viewed in its entirety by clicking here. http://nysosc3.osc.state.ny.us/localgov/muni/audits/2001/towns/01towns.htm

Republican Candidate Fined by DEC (10/13/01)

Republican Town Council candidate Randy Hornbeck, Sr. was cited for allegedly filling in wetlands illegally at property located on Route 209 near the corner of Kyserike Road. He was cited in March 2001 and in August 20001 executed a consent decree with the Department of Environmental Conservation in which he agreed to an $11,000 fine and restoration of certain parts of the property. A portion of the fine, $3,000, will be suspended if certain conditions are met within 30 days. According to the DEC, Hornbeck was previously fined for a similar violation on property on the opposite side of Route 209 near the former Hornbeck Fuel garage. (10/16/01)

Councilman's Report of Investigation of Losses at Town Transfer Station (10/13/01)

At the request of the Town Board, Councilman Anthony Spano conducted an investigation of approximately $6,000 missing from the Town Transfer Station. In August 2001, the Municipal Works Supervisor reported the shortfall to the Town Board, prompting the investigation. According to Spano, poor record keeping makes it impossible to determine if money was collected and not credited to the proper accounts, or if the money was never collected at all. Spano also reported systematic overcharging of residents due to the "rounding up" policy, poor cash controls related to punch card sales, and incomplete weight records to verify against disposal bills. Written responses prepared by the Municipal Works Supervisor and the Town Clerk, contradicted each other and misrepresented State Law regarding monitoring of cash. (See related article in Blue Stone Press 10/5/01)

Rochester Board Opts Against Unity resolution (10/13/01)

At the October 4, 2001Rochester Town Board meeting, members declined to endorse a statement seeking to reassure residents and business owners of Middle Eastern descent that their heritage is honored at home during a period of international tension. Councilman Anthony Spano, the board's only Democratic member moved that the Town Board adopt a resolution stating: "Whereas President Bush has proclaimed his commitment to protect and uphold the rights of all Americans regardless of national origin or religion ... be it resolved that during this time of national tragedy, the town of Rochester's local officials will continue to support the right of all people to live and work here free from intimidation and harassment." ""Our local government will neither accept (n)or condone any form of bigotry or discrimination against our Middle Eastern neighbors," "As elected officials we will not look the other way when innocent people are abused ormaligned. Rather, we will assist any victims of discriminatory actions and intimidation, pursuing legal recourse under the same laws that protect everyone residing or doing business within our town." Town Supervisor Harold Lipton said the resolution is unnecessary because there has not been concern expressed by local residents. Spano's resolution was not seconded by Councilmen Carroll or Santosky, therefore the motion was not voted upon. (Freeman 10/7/01).

Meet the Candidates Night to be Scheduled
The Blue Stone Press and the Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a Meet the Candidates Night. Candidates for the offices of Town Supervisor, Town Council, Town Clerk, Highway Superintendent, and Town Justice are expected to be present.

Rochester Residents Association, Inc. Announces Membership Drive (10/13/01)
The Rochester Residents Association, Inc. is initiating a new membership drive by mailing a complementary copy of its first quarterly newsletter to every property owner in the Town of Rochester. The 3,500 piece mailing will begin to arrive in resident's mailboxes within a week. The Newsletter includes information on the current demographics of the town, land use and assessment information and contains a two-page survey for residents to provide their input on what they believe our community should focus on. Many
of the survey's questions were based on the last town-wide survey that was conducted in 1969 as part of the process of completing the town's Comprehensive Development Plan. The Rochester Residents Association's goals include providing a forum for community members from all walks of life to provide their opinions on the current state and future of our community. The newsletter is an attempt to bridge the gap between many segments of our population by providing factual and non-biased information so that we can begin to deal with our town's issues in a way that recognizes everyone's point of view.

The Rochester Residents Association is a non-partisan, not-for-profit entity established by a handful of citizens to educate and inform residents about issues in the Town of Rochester. The organization was incorporated in October 2000 and is open to residents (both full-time and second homeowners), business persons, and other people who have a stake in the future of the Town of Rochester. Further information can be found on the organization's website, which can be reached through www.accord-kerhonkson.com.

Three Seek Vacant Seat on Rondout Valley School Board (10/13/01)
Rondout Valley school board members will hear on October 16, 2001 from three district residents who have applied to fill the vacancy created when Lucy Ann Sciarrino resigned last month; the term expires in May 2002. The three candidates are: Paul Gruner, Marijane Knudsen-Hunlock and Richard Lanzarone. Gruner, 55, of U.S. Route 209, Stone Ridge, is an attorney and the Ulster County public defender. "I have three children in the high school, and I'm concerned about them ... and everybody's education,. I'd like to be part of
a school board that's responsible to the students and responsive to the taxpayers." A 28-year district resident, Gruner served on a budget advisory committee amid a district austerity budget in the early 1990s. Knudsen-Hunlock, 46, of Alligerville Road, High Falls, is a Rondout Valley graduate who works for the Ulster County Department of Social Services. She also chairs the town of Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals and the town's Republican Committee. "I have no children, so other than being a taxpayer, I have no vested interest. You have to be able to look at both sides." Lanzarone, 50, of 146 Bone Hollow Road, Accord, is administrative director at Kingston Hospital. "I'm a taxpayer, a homeowner and have a 15-year-old in the district. I feel I have a lot to offer since my expertise is directly applicable to school administration." (Freeman 10/11/01)

Deer Season Dates for 2001 (10/13/01)
Regular: Nov. 19 - Dec. 11
Archery Oct. 15 to Nov. 18 and Dec. 12 to Dec. 16

Smart Bells Programs (10/13/01)
The Smart Bells Instructor Certification Program" and a "Thinkfit Retreat Weekend" will be held simultaneously Nov. 9-11 at the Hudson Valley Resort. The two programs will be go on concurrently. The Certification Program is all weekend. For the Retreat, a one or two night stay is possible. The Smart Bells Instructor Certification Program is comprehensive and rigorous. There are no p0rerequisites, but we suggest you have background in fitness and/or Mind*Body Work. (Examples: Personal Training, Dance, Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Feldenkrais, Coaching, Athletics, Weight Training, Wrestling, Functional Fitness Background, etc. If you are not sure, please call Thinkfit). The Thinkfit Retreat is open to anyone that wants to come to the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa for rest, relaxation and a little fitness without participating in the Certification portion of the Program. A Smart Bells class, attendance at the talks (see below), and the painting performance are included in the package price. For more information visit: www.thinkfit.com/smartbells/instrcertprog.htm

Legal Notice: Fuel Bids (10/13/01)
LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 103A of the General
Municipal Law of the State of New York, the Town Clerk of the Town of Rochester will receive at the Town Clerk's Office, Accord, NY until 10/25/01 at 11:00 a.m., at which time they will be opened, sealed bids for #2 fuel oil, gasoline, propane and diesel fuel. Detailed specifications are available at the Town Clerk's Office, PO Box 65, Accord, NY 12404 (845) 626-7384. Bids to be awarded after review by the Town Board. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/Registered Municipal Clerk
Kingston Freeman 10/10/01

High Falls Fire District Notice of Vote (10/13/01)
NOTICE IS SPECIAL ELECTION: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the High Falls Fire District, in the Towns of Marbletown and Rosendale, Ulster County, New York, did on the 19th day of September 2001, adopt a RESOLUTION described in the following proposition and directed that a Special Election of the registered residents of said Fire District shall be held at the Fire Hall in said District on the 23rd day of October, 2001 between the hours of 6pm and 9pm for the purpose of voting on he following proposition: Shall the RESOLUTION passed by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the High Falls Fire District on the 19th day of September 2001, of which the following is a copy, be approved? BONE RESOLUTION DATED SEPTEMBER 19TH 2001 AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF UP TO $72,000 FIRE DISTRICT SERIAL BONDS OF THE HIGH FALLS FIRE DISTRICT FOR PURCHASING FIRE APPARATUS CONSISTING OF ONE 1250 GPM SINGLE STAGE PUMP WITH 1800 GALLONS OF WATER CAPACITY USING A HME 4 DOOR CHASSIS TOGETHER WITH OTHER EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE SAID TRUCK INTO A COMPLETE CUSTOM PUMPER TANKER UNIT, FOR USE IN CONTROLLING AND EXTINGUISHING FIRES. RESOLVED this 19th day of September 2001 by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the High Falls Fire District in the Towns of Marbletown and Rosendale, Ulster County, New York, as follows: SECTION 1. The purchase of apparatus for the extinguishment and prevention of fires in said Fire District, consisting of one 1250 GPM single stage pump with 1800 gallons of water capacity using a HME 4 door chassis together with other equipment needed to make said truck into a complete custom pumper tanker unit, is hereby authorized at a cost of approximately $272,000. SECTION 2. The plan for the financing of the aforesaid object or purpose consists of approximately $200,000 of reserve funds and the issuance of serial bonds of said Fire District in the principal amount of not more than $72,000 which bonds are hereby authorized for such object or purpose. Such bonds shall be dated and issued in 2002 and shall mature in amounts not exceeding $72,000 in each of the years 2003 through 2009. In equal annual installments of principal, and shall otherwise be of such terms, form and contents as the district treasurer shall prescribe.SECTION 3. The period of probable usefulness of the aforesaid object of purpose for which such bonds are to be issued pursuant to Section 11.00(A) Subdivision 27, or the Local Finance Law is hereby determined to be seven years. SECTION 4. It is hereby determined that the proposed maturity of the obligations authorized hereby will not be in excess of seven years. SECTION 5. The faith and credit of said District are pledged to the payment of the principal of said bonds and interest thereon when due. SECTION 6. The District Treasurer is hereby authorized and directed to sell such bonds at private sale in accordance with the provisions of Sections 63.00 of the Local Finance Law. SECTION 7. This RESOLUTION shall, before being effective be approved at a special election of the Registered Residents of said fire District be held at the Fire Hall in said District on the 23rd day of October 2001, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The District Secretary is hereby ordered and directed to prepare the ballots which shall be substantially the following form: Shall the RESOLUTION entitled ``A Resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of up to $72,000 Fire District Serial Bonds of the High Falls Fire District for purchasing fire apparatus consisting of one 1250 GPM single stage pump with 1800 Gallons of water capacity using a HME 4 door chassis together with other equipment needed to make said truck into a complete custom pumper tanker unit for use in controlling and extinguishing fires. Adopted on the 19th day of September 2001 be approved? All duly registered residents of the High Falls Fire District shall be eligible to vote. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE HIGH FALLS FIRE DISTRICT. DATED: September 19, 2001 High Falls, New York Genevieve Tesseyman Secretary Kingston

Money Missing From Town Funds (9/30/01)
In a written report submitted at the Town Board meeting on September 27 by Councilman Tony Spano reported the findings of his investigation of a report in August 2001 of $6,000 missing from town funds (and reported by a town employee) related to the transfer station and managed by Town Clerk Veronica Sommer. Spano had previously requested and received permission to investigate the matter from Supervisor Harold Lipton. As a result of his investigation, Spano reported that: (a) transfer station scales had not been calibrated, (b) the town did not maintain independent weight records to reconcile against billings from the Resource Recovery Agency, (c) town residents have been systematically overcharged, (d) there was no record-keeping of funds collected, and (e) the town clerk failed to maintain daily cash reconciliations. Spano's report indicated that it was impossible to determine the extent of missing funds or the period over which such funds may have gone missing, if any, due to non-existent or deficient record keeping. Supervisor Lipton said that Spano's report would be taken under advisement. While the town clerk has daily responsibility over cash receipts, the town supervisor is the town's chief fiscal officer.

State audit faults Rochester's fiscal records (9/30/01)
By Dawn Letus, Freeman staff September 21, 2001
ACCORD - A state audit has found the town of Rochester's accounting records for the 2000 fiscal year were incomplete.
    The report by the state Comptroller's Office, outlining the results of an audit of the town's financial records over the past two years, found that general journals, general ledgers and revenue and expenditure ledgers had not been posted, and that the town failed to maintain general ledgers for fixed assets and long-term debt accounts.     Auditors also found cash receipts journals had not been posted for the period of Sept. 1, 2000 through Dec. 31, 2000 and cash receipt and cash disbursement journals were not maintained for the town's capital projects fund.     The Comptroller's Office recommended town Supervisor Harold Lipton maintain complete accounting records on a current basis. "Accountability over financial resources is greatly diminished when accounting records are not up to date," the report said.     For his part, Lipton said he could not account for the part of the audit that covered the town's books in , since he was not yet in office at that time. He said the biggest problem with maintaining last year's books was a computer failure that caused the town to lose a large portion of its data.     The report said that a 1999 annual financial report, due to be filed with the state comptroller's office early in 2000, was not filed until June 26 of that year, which is when Lipton said he hired an accounting firm to review the records.     "We had to do the abstracts manually," he said. "We hired In-House Accounting of Hurley to track down every check, bank statement, everything. They didn't find any fallacies. As a matter of fact, we called for this audit to be done, because of the inaccuracies with the computers."     Lipton said cash receipt books have been distributed to the various agencies within the town, addressing and correcting part of the audit's findings. The town has 90 days to respond to the comptroller's office. At that time, Lipton said, he would let officials know how the town plans to correct the problems.    Lipton said he would discuss the report with Town Board members at a meeting today to interview candidates to fill two open seats on the town Planning Board. ©Daily Freeman 2001 (9/21/01)

Audit Report Summary (9/30/01)
The audit covered the period January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2000 and was conducted in accordance with General Municpal Law to determine compliance with the New York State Laws on Town Government and the execution of responsibilities. The town has 90 days from the date of the report (September 7, 2001) to respond with a plan to initiate corrective action. The audit was conducted March-April 2001 and the report was filed on September 7, 2001
Accounting Record Deficiencies:
    · General journals, general ledgers, and revenue and expenditure ledgers had not been posted.
    · Genral ledgers were not maintained for the general fixed assets and general long-term debt accounts groups.
    · Cash receipts journals had not been posted for the period 9/1/2000 through December 31, 2000.
    · Cash receipt and cash disbursement journals were not maintained for the capital projects fund.
":it is the duty of the town supervisor to maintain a complete and accurate account of receipts and disbursements of town funds." A similar finding appeared in [the] prior [three] Reports of Examination [dating to 1989].
Fixed Assets
· The town's control over its general fixed assets could be improved.
· There were inadequacies in the records and procedures used to account for general fixed assets that consist of land, buildings, and equipment.
· The town does not maintain general ledger accounts for the general fixed assets account group.
· The net fixed asset inventory records had not been updated since 1997, however, these records were in the process of being updated.
"..these records help fix responsibility for the control and custody of municipal property and help provide assurance that such property is properly safeguarded." A similar finding appeared in our prior [three] Report[s] of Examination [dating to 1989].

Gasoline and Diesel Fuel

The town does not maintain adequate control over the purchase and usage of its gasoline and diesel fuel (which is purchased and stored at the highway department for use by town vehicles). A similar finding appeared in our [three] prior Report of Examination[s] [dating to 1989].
Annual Financial Report
The town supervisor did not file the 1999 annual financial report with the State Comptroller until June 26, 2000. Municipal law requires that the town supervisor file this report within 60 days of the close of the fiscal year.

Supervisor's Monthly Report
We found no indication that the supervisor provieded the Town Board with detailed statements of moneys received and disbursed by him for the 2000 fiscal year. Town Law requires a monthly detailed statement. [Town was faulted for same omission in the three prior examinations dating to 1989].
Payroll Time Records
During 2000 the salaried part-time code enforcement officer, part-time assistant code enforcement officer, part-time social services officer and part -time dog control officer did not maintain a log or diary of hours worked.

Voter Registration Deadline (9/30/01)
The last day to post mark your mailed voter registration form is Friday, October 12th. You can obtain a registration form at the Post Office, by calling the Board of Elections at 845-334-5470 or visiting www.co.ulster.ny.us.elections The deadline for postmarking an absentee ballot application is October 30. You can obtain an absentee ballot application by calling the Board of Elections, or on-line at the same website listed above.

Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continuation (9/30/01)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Rochester will hold a continuation of public hearing at 7:00 P.M. on the 9th day of October 2001, at the Town Hall, located at 50 Scenic Rd., Accord, NY, on Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log concentration yard to include firewood and mulch processing on property located at 325 Kyserike Road, High Falls, NY, on Tax Map #69.004-02-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicant must be present or represented at the hearing. (Freeman 9/28/01)

Musical Petting Zoo Arrives at the Little Ones' Library (9/30/01)
The Musical Petting Zoo, a menagerie of instruments in all shapes and sizes, arrives at the Little Ones' Library on Saturday, October 20th from 10 am to 12 noon. Mr. Larry Balestra, performer, music educator and the Rondout Valley High School Band Director and his assistants will provide musical fun for children young and old. Youngsters will hear, see and have an opportunity to try out real musical instruments that they have heard about in stories, seen in parades or concerts and heard on tapes. Making music is a joyous experience! The Musical Petting Zoo at the Little Ones' Library promises to be a morning filled with stories, music and movement, and hands-on experiences with musical instruments most young children seldom have the opportunity to explore. The Little Ones' Library, located at the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Rte. 209, Accord serves children from birth to age 6. Established by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, with help from other community partners, it provides library experiences for children in the rural Accord/Kerhonkson area. For more information about Library hours, storytimes and activities, please contact Marie Ulmer at 626-4112 or Sue Matson at 340-3990.

School District Request for Bids (9/30/01)
NOTICE TO BIDDERS BIDS FOR 2001-2002 TRANSPORTATION The Board of Education of the Rondout Valley Central School District at Accord, County of Ulster, Accord, New York 12404, (in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law) hereby invites the submission of sealed bids on: TRANSPORTATION OF PUPILS for the 2001-2002 School Year SPECIAL EDUCATION Bids will be received until 2:00 PM on the 1st day of October at the District Office, 122 Kyserike Rd., Accord, New York 12404, at which time and place all bids will be opened publicly. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the same office between 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Bids specifications will be available on September 24th. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any formalities in or to reject or to accept any or all bids. No bidder may withdraw his bid within sixty (60) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Dennis T. Geisler Asst. Supt for Finance 9/25/01

Audit Report - Legal Notice (9/30/01)
STATE OF NEW YORK OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Fiscal Affairs of the Town of Rochester for the period beginning on January 1, 1999 and ending on December 31, 2000 have been examined by the Office of the State Comptroller and that the Report of Examination performed by the Office of the State Comptroller has been filed in my office where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons, pursuant to Section Thirty-Five of the General Municipal Law, the Governing Board of the Town of Rochester may in its discretion, prepare a written response to the report of examination performed by the Office of the State Comptroller and file any such response in my office as a public record for inspection by all interested persons not later than December 20, 2001. HAROLD LIPTON SUPERVISOR (Freeman 9/20/01)

Republicans and Conservatives Select Town Government Nominees (9/19/01)
At a caucus held on September 5, 2001, the Town of Rochester Republicans nominated the following candididates: Supervisor: Harold Lipton; Town Clerk: Veronica Sommer; Highway Superintendent Wayne Kelder; Town Council: Randall S. Hoornbeek, Thomas Ryan. These candidates were also nominated at the Town of Rochester Conservative caucus held on September 6.

Town Democrats Select Candidates (9/19/01)
At a caucus held on September 16, 2001, the Town of Rochester Democrats nominated the following candicates: Supervisor: Richard Seigel (other nominees: Steven Fornal) ; Highway Superintendant: Wayne Kelder; Town Board: Brinton Baker, Anthony Spano. Richard Seigal has owned and operated Pot Luck Studios on Main Street since 1995, prior to starting this business, he was an advertising executive. This is his first run for public office. Brinton "Brit" Baker owns and operates the Stone Window Gallery on Main Street and has been active in the Town's Youth Commission, the Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce and was a principal in establishing the annual Accord street fair. Anthony "Tony" Spano has served on the Town Council since he was selected in a special election in November 2000. He has been active in the Town's Youth Commission and was instrumental in renovating the former Agway building into the Town's Community Center.

Local Business Persons Harassed (9/19/01)
In the aftermath of the attack on the World Trade Center and Pentagon on September 11, 2001, there have been instances of harassment of local business owners of Asian descent by local residents. In response to these acts of unwarranted discrimination, the following statement was read at the Democratic Caucus by former Democratic Chair Mary Mendola on September 16, 2001:

"Right here in the Town of Rochester, we have Indian and Pakistani neighbors. The are taxpayers just like us. They have businesses and families and homes here - just like us. As individuals, they are not directly responsible for Tuesday's events, just as we, average Americans, are not directly responsible for the atrocities against the peoples of the worldwide community of which our country is accused.

"In our little town of Rochester, in Accord and Kerhonkson, we need to send out a message: it is totally unacceptable here to harass or intimidate these people - our neighbors - in any way. If anything, they are as frightened as we are by recent events. They should be treated with the respect and compassion with which we wish to be treated. Anti-Indian, anti-Pakistani, and anti-anyone-with-dark-skin events are being reported throughout the country - as close as Kingston, New York. Let's together diffuse this bomb that could explode here in our own backyard, right along Route 209 from Stone Ridge to Kerhonkson. We can't be responsible for what is happening throughout the country or the country. Let's be decent and responsible about what happens here in the town of Rochester."

After the statement was read, town resident Stan Breite suggested that incumbent Town Councilman Tony Spano introduce a resolution condemning discrimination in our town at the next Town Board meeting.

Farm Produce Donations Sought for New York City Relief Workers (9/19/01)
Farm Bureau of Orange and Ulster Counties, New York State Farm Bureau, Orange County Vegetable Growers Association and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster and Orange Counties are coordinating with City Harvest and the American Red Cross for an agricultural product donation drive for New York City. Products needed are fruits and vegetables. Donations will be used in the next few weeks to feed emergency and relief workers at the World Trade Center disaster site. City Harvest a non-profit organization that supplies food kitchens and pantries in New York City with surplus food from restaurants and institutions will coordinate the distribution of food to those restaurants preparing food for workers. Local fruit and vegetable growers who would like to donate food items, transportation of the items to the New York City area or volunteer as a drop-off collection site should contact Maire Ullrich at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orange County at 344-1234 or Teresa Rusinek at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County at 340-3990. Messages may also be left at 341-9425. Media inquires please contact Lisa Moriello Pagano, Marketing and Public Relations Director, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, 340-3990 or Chris Pawelski at 845-258-4202.

Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Event (9/19/01)
The Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy will hold a tour of the Feather Farm Grist Mill and a silent auction on Saturday, September 29 at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Built in 1760, the working grist mill, powered by Overshoot Water Wheel water from the Kripplebush Kill sits on 350 acres of its original site. The farm was purchased by the Hansen family in the 1920s. Directions: Route 209 to Old Kings Hwy in Stone Ridge, go downhill and bear left onto Rest Plaus Rd. Go approximately 1/3 mile to #66. The cost of the event is $10.00 per person, 12 & under free.

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Classes (9/19/01)
First Aid- Sat. 9/15 at 9AM , CPR- Tues.9/25 & Mon. 10/1- course is both classes Renewals- 10/1 class only. CPR classes- 6:30 PM Call Marge @ 626-3023 to register or for further info.

CRAFT FAIR-Draft Horse Festival, Sept. 22 & 23, Kelder's Farm, Rt. 209, Kerhonkson. 845-626-7137. (9/7/01)

Find Out About 4-H: Open House Welcomes Newcomers (9/19/01)
Looking to get into 4-H? Want to find out more about the kind of fun and friendship, opportunities and experiences that kids age 8 to 18 have by joining a 4-H club? From photography and fine art to gardening, clothing design, teen leadership, cooking and pets of all sizes, 4-H is more than you can imagine! To help you learn more, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County 4-H Youth Development Program will hold three separate Open House nights on Wednesday, September 12th, Monday, September 17th and Tuesday, September 18th at their office on 10 Westbrook Lane in Kingston at 7:30 pm. Find out about the kinds of things kids do and learn, the benefits of becoming a volunteer leader and how 4-H clubs value and nurture young people as they are and for what they will become. For more information about 4-H clubs, volunteer leader training or 4-H Open House, please call L. Annah Abbott, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator at 340-3990.

Notice from Kerhonkson Lions Club (9/19/01)
The Kerhonkson Lions are starting their 54th year of service to the community. Dan Gelles, is leading the group for the third year in sucession. He is supported by Marge Carroll as 1st VP and Rhoda Lane as 2nd VP. John Motzer is Secretary again for the 10th time and Richard Terwilliger has been managing our finances for over 20 years. Lions Jack Macauley, Ed Lamon and Carlton Schoonmaker are the boards directors. As with most service organizations our membership is dwindling. We and the community need some more workers. Lion Arnie Gottesman is our sight and hearing chairman, and as with all the members is constantly working to help those in need. We are a support group, helping the children, seniors and anyone who can not get the necessary sight and hearing benefits that they require for daily living. We work closely with the schools, senior groups and service organizations to provide basic visual and audio needs. If we can not directly contribute to these needs we find organizations that can help. We are here to help. "WE SERVE". If you know of someone in need, call John C. Motzer Sr. at 626-7536 and I will put you in contact with one of our supporters. If you think you would like to join Lionism, give me a call. We meet, at the Log Cabin, the second and forth Thursdays of each month. Drop in for a visit. We also get nvolved with other community projects such as the rail trail and revitalization of the Hamlet of Kerhonkson. GIVE US A CALL! With the support of the community, we can keep serving.

Granit Hotel Employee Reunion (9/19/01)
There will be a reunion of former Granit Hotel employees on Sunday, September 16, 2001, from 4pm until 8pm, at the Ukrainian National Estate Resort on Foordmore Road, Kerhonkson. Please call Evelyn Dutka for details: 626-3155

RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT TAX NOTICE (9/19/01)
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has received the 2001-2002 school tax assessment roll together with the warrant for the collection of school taxes in the Rondout Valley Central School District, Accord, New York. Taxes will be collected from September 4, 2001 through November 5, 2001. Taxes for the Towns of Marbletown, Rochester, Rosendale and Wawarsing will be received at Rondout Valley Central School District Office, 122 Kyserike Road, or mailed to P.O. Box 9, Accord, N.Y. 12404. IF paid by Escrow Account forward to your bank at once. Payments made from October 4, 2001 through November 5, 2001 must include an interest penalty as printed on the face of the bill. Taxes unpaid after November 5, will be re-levied by the County Treasurer along with penalties and added to the county tax bill in January. NOTICE: YOUR CANCELLED CHECK IS YOUR RECEIPT. Make checks payable to: Tax Collector Genevieve Tessey- manor Rondout Valley Central School P.O. Box 9 Accord, N.Y. 12404 Tax Collector Rondout Valley Central School District Accord, N.Y. 12404 (Freeman 8/31/01)

Town Democratic Caucus Notice (9/19/01)
LEGAL NOTICE The Town of Rochester Democratic Committee will hold its nominating Caucus Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 1:00 p.m. at the fire house on Main Street in Accord. Candidates will be nominated for Supervisor, Highway Superintendent, Town Council, Town Clerk, and Town Justice.
Kingston Freeman (9/5/01)

Upcoming Nominating Caucuses (9/3/01)

Republican, Tuesday, September 4, 7:30 pm, Accord Fire Station

Conservative, Wednesday, September 5, 7:00 pm, Grange Hall

Democratic, Sunday, September 16, 1:00 pm, Accord Fire Station

State Orders Town to Fix Oil Leak at Transfer Station (9/3/01)

The NY State Dept. of Environmental Conservation gave the Town of Rochester 60 days to fix a leaking waste oil storage tank and secondary containment facility at the Town’s transfer station on Airport Road. The DEC had inspected the facility and discovered the leak (Freeman 9/2/01)

Town Considers Sale of Land Adjacent to Transfer Station (9/3/01)

At a Town Board meeting on August 30^th, the Town Board tabled a discussion regarding the potential sale of town-owned property adjacent to the Town transfer station on Airport Road. Two residents have expressed interest in buying at least four acres near the site. Before conducting the sale, the Town will have to hold public hearings and possibly schedule an auction for its sale. (Freeman 9/2/01)

Discussion of Planning Board Attendance (9/3/01)

Planning Board Chair Brian Drabkin reported on members’ attendance since the beginning of the year and raised the issue of the appointment of an alternate member as required by the Town Code. According to an article in the Daily Freeman, Drabkin said that he would rather not have an alternate, despite the legal requirement. Town Board candidate (and Planning Board member) Randy Hoornbeek said, "If you are going to have an alternate, that person should be at every meeting and be paid." At present, Planning Board members are not paid. Separately, Planning Board member Ronald Santosky resigned for personal reasons.

School Starting Postponed (9/3/01)

The Rondout Valley Board of Education voted on August 28 to postpone the opening of district schools to Sept. 10, a month after officials had said school construction projects were on or ahead of schedule. The delay, which means students will get Sept. 6 and 7 off, will give contractors time to complete work at the district's middle school, officials said. At a school board meeting last month, district officials said all construction projects would be done by the first day of school. The board also approved five spending increases in contracts awarded to Westbank Contracting and three increases to Hudson Valley Electric Construction and Maintenance. The vote was 6 to 1, with board member Maureen Sheehan dissenting. (Freeman 8/29/01)

Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continued to September 11 (9/3/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 11th day of September 2001, at 7:00 p.m., at the former Agway building, located on GFL Road, off Main Street, Accord, N.Y. on Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log concentration yard to include firewood and mulch processing. Property is located at 325 Kyserike Road, High Falls, N.Y. on Tax Map #69.004-02-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, N.Y. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicant must be present or represented at the hearing. (Freeman 8/29/01)

Little Ones’ Library Update (9/3/01)

The Little Ones' Library, a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, serves very young children, from birth to age 6, in the Accord/Kerhonkson area. Located at the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Rte. 209, Accord, it's open three days a week for stories, books and fun. Little Ones Library is also hosting a series of special events. On September 22, 2001 from 10 AM to 12 noon celebrate Truck Day. A variety of trucks and other cool things with wheels will be on display for children to look at and learn about. The Musical Petting Zoo will astound children of all ages on October 20, 2001 from 10 AM to 12 noon. In November, the Little Ones' Library celebrates the arrival of an outstanding collection of children's books donated by the Libri Foundation. On Saturday, November 17th from 10 AM to 12 noon the unveiling of this special gift will be celebrated with a bunch of fun filled activities. The hours for fall are as follows:

Thursday - 10-12 Noon Storytime - 10-10:30 AM

Saturday - 10-12 Noon Storytime - 10-10:30 AM

Church Celebrates Tricentennial (9/3/01)

The Rochester Reformed Church celebrated its 300^th year as a by holding its annual chicken barbecue

on August 25th with a decidedly historical feel. Throughout the day and on into the evening, members of the 3rd Regiment Ulster Militia, a group of Revolutionary War re-enactors, had an encampment on the church grounds on U.S. Route 209. The original 1776 militia was an outgrowth of the Rochester Foot Company, which was organized in 1713. The 3rd Regiment Ulster Militia was once known as "Regiments of Foot" and was one of the many units raised from among citizens of Ulster County. The main purpose of the unit was to provide defense and to supply intelligence regarding enemy positions and movements during the war. (Freeman 8/24/01)

TREASURER-P/T, for Kerhonkson Fire District. Experience preferred. Call Phil Rock at 845-626-3331. (9/3/01)

Tax Rates Set in Local Communities: (9/3/01)

Tax rates for the 2001-2002 school year have been set as follows (Daily Freeman 9/1/01):

New Paltz, $23.43 (increase of 2.71%)

Gardner $25.50, (+12.05%)

Rosendale $24.06 (+5.71%)

Esopus $21.06 (decrease, property re-valuation)

Lloyd $24.20 (+6.25%)

Plattekill $24.59 (+8.11%)

Rochester $22.85 (+3.87%)

Accord Fire District Legal Notice (9/3/01)

ACCORD FIRE DISTRICT LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PURSUANT TO GENERAL

MUNICIPAL LAW SECTION 6-d PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Accord Fire District, Accord, New York, has proposed to appropriate the sum of of NINETY THOUSAND AND NO/100 -- ($90,000.00) – DOLLARS from the Accord Fire District Repair Reserve Fund to be placed into the Capital Reserve Fund, for the purpose of a building addition to the Rochester #2 fire house/fire station situated on Samsonville Road, and that a public hearing on the proposed appropriation will be held at the time and place set forth herein: PUBLIC HEARING DATE: September 6, 2001 TIME: 7:30 P.M. LOCATION: Accord Fire District Headquarters Accord Fire House 22 Main Street Accord, New York 12404 Dated: August 21, 2001 (8/29/01)

Local Evidence of West Nile (8/21/01)

Since this week's confirmation of a dead juvenile blue jay found in Marbletown that tested positive for West Nile virus, Palen said the county will likely step up its testing program for mosquito pools in the area where the bird was found (Freeman 8/9/01)

Town Nominating Caucuses (8/21/01)

To nominate candidates for the November 2001 town elections.

Republican Tuesday, September 4

Conservative Wednesday, September 5

Democrat Sunday, September 16, 1:00 pm, Accord Fire House

Kerhonkson Synagogue (8/21/01)

The Kerhonkson Synagogue, located at 26 Minnewaska Trail, is an unaffiliated synagogue following the practices of egalitarian Conservative Judaism. We are beginning our 79th year with a year-long membership drive. Religious school will begin the week of September 9th and registration is still continuing for our "one room schoolhouse" multi-age program taught by Cantor Devorah Gartner. Our open door policy extends to High Holy Day Services for which no tickets or advance reservations are required. For more information, including service schedule, please contact Cantor Devorah Gartner at 914-706-5007 or e-mail President Bob Gartner at robert.gartner@lw.com. All are welcome.

Subdivision Hearing (8/21/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning board of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 21st day of August, 2001, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Hall, Accord, N.Y., on Application by Mary Dennin for approval of 3-lot subdivision of property located on Airport Road, Accord, N.Y. on Tax Map 69.003-01-17 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, N.Y. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearing will be held by the Planning Board at a workshop meeting on August 28, 2001 at 7:00 p.m., at the Town Hall, Accord, N.Y. Kingston Freeman (8/8/01)

Second Fatality at High Falls (8/7/01)

A 16-year old Orange County resident died on August 3 after jumping into the Rondout Creek from the old Delaware and Hudson Canal aqueduct in High Falls. This is the second fatality this summer; a 21 year old NYC resident died near the same spot in late-June. (Freeman 8/4/01)

Accord Community Festival (7/27/01 & 8/7/01)

The Kerhonkson-Accord Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Rochester Youth Commission will co-sponsor the sixth annual Peace and Harmony Community Festival on August 11 to raise money for area youth projects. The festival will take place between noon and 9:00 pm rain or shine, at the Community Center located at the site of the former Agway behind the Accord Train Station. Children's activities will include pony rides, face painting, puppet shows, story telling, musical entertainment, karaoke and ring toss. The festival will offer food, a beer garden and a variety of vendors. For more information, call Valerie Weaver at 626-2616 or Youth Commission director Carol Dennin at 626-2115. (Freeman 7/15/01)

Party Nominating Caucuses (8/7/01)

The Democratic Party Caucus will be held on Sunday, August 26^th at 3:00pm at the Accord Fire District. The Republican Caucus will be held on Tuesday, September 4^th. The Conservative Party has not yet announced its caucus plans. Candidates for the two-year terms for Supervisor and Highway Clerk and for the four-year terms for Town Clerk and Town Council (two seats) will be nominated.

Mombaccus Requests Gravel Mine Increase (8/7/01)

In a recent permit renewal application submitted to the NY State Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Mombaccus Excavating Ltd., which owns and operates a gravel mine on Rochester Center Road, requested permission to increase its hourly capacity from 90 tons per hour to 400 tons per hour. On reviewing the application, the DEC determined that a full review was required and requested that Mombaccus complete a full permit application. This facility is less than a mile from the Queens Highway site that Metro Recycling and Crushing proposes to install a 400 ton per hour crusher. Separately, Metro is still appealing a citation issued by the U.S. Department of Labor's Mining Safety & Health Review Commission for negligence resulting from a fatality that occurred at Metro's gravel mine in Phillipsport, NY.

Kerhonkson Synagogue hosts and All-You-Can-Eat BBQ (8/7/01)

Sunday, August 12, 2001, 1pm-4pm, at the Kerhonkson Jewish Center, 24 Minnewaska Trail, Kerhonkson Adult $8; Seniors $7; Child 6-10 $5, Info/Reservations: 626-7212

Elk in the Catskills (8/7/01)

Supporters of an effort to bring 100 elk to the Catskills to see if a Western species can thrive in this area are holding a series of public workshops to exchange information about the plan. The first takes place Monday, Aug. 13, at Tri-Valley School in Grahamsville. Other workshops will take place Aug. 14 at the Onteora Junior/Senior High School in Boiceville, Aug. 15 at the Andes Fire Hall in Delaware County and Aug. 16 at the Hunter-Tannersville School in Tannersville. All of the workshops will take place from 4-9 p.m. Since the spring of 1999 supporters have been going from town to town drumming up municipal backing to realize the plans outlined in a 4-year-old study that determined that elk, which roamed the Catskills until the late 19th century, could once again live successfully in the region. Support has come from such towns as Olive and Shandaken in Ulster County and Hunter and Jewett in Greene County. Other communities such as Olive and Rochester had officials who needed some convincing before finally giving their approval last summer. Freeman 8/6/01

Legal Notice: School District Bids (8/7/01)

The Board of Education of the Rondout Valley Central School District at Accord, County of Ulster, Accord, New York 12404, (in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law) hereby invites the submission of sealed bids on: Pizza Bread & Bread Products Assorted Juices Ice Cream & Fuel Oil #2 & LP Gas Re-Bid Bids will be received until 1:00 p.m. on the 21st day of August 2001 at the District Office located at 122 Kyserike Road, Accord, N.Y., 12404, at which time and place all bids will be opened publicly. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the same office between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any formalities in or to reject or to accept any or all bids. No bidder may withdraw his bid within forty-five (45) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Dennis Geisler Interim Assistant Superintendent Finance DATED: July 2001 (Freeman8/6/01)

Free Web Hosting for Non-Profit Organizations
Accord-Kerhonkson On-Line, the host of this website will offer free webpage hosting for qualified non-profit organizations. For further information, please send and e-mail to towncrier@accord-kerhonkson.com. (7/30/01)

VanDemark Zoning Decision Overruled

A court recently overturned a decision by the Zoning Board of Appeals relating to the business use of a property by Steve VanDemark of VanDemark Automotive. The ZBA previously placed limitations on the use of the property that it had ruled was grandfathered. Judge Connor ruled that since the ZBA determined the property use was grandfathered, the limitations placed by the ZBA were inconsistent.

Rochester Democrats to Hold Town Caucus

The Town of Rochester Democratic Committee has announced plans to hold its pre-election nominating caucus on Sunday, August 26th.

Town Board Discusses Rail Trail

At a recent town board meeting, the Rochester Town Board decided to put six signs at access points along the Accord-Kerhonkson rail trail in response to complaints about motorcycles and all terrain vehicles on the three mile long trail. In other business, Carroll announced he will not run for re-election in November. The former the Agway building in town is only weeks away from being opened as a new community center. The town's Planning and Zoning boards will be moving their offices into the renovated building shortly. (7/30/01)

Accord Community Festival (7/27/01)

The Kerhonkson-Accord Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Rochester Youth Commission will co-sponsor the sixth annual Peace and Harmony Community Festival on August 11 to raise money for area youth projects. The festival will take place between noon and 9:00 pm rain or shine, at the Community Center located at the site of the former Agway behind the Accord Train Station. Children's activities will include pony rides, face painting, puppet shows, story telling, musical entertainment, karaoke and ring toss. The festival will offer food, a beer garden and a variety of vendors. For more information, call Valerie Weaver at 626-2616 or Youth Commission director Carol Dennin at 626-2115. (Freeman 7/15/01)

Rondout Valley School Budget (7/27/01)

KYSERIKE - Rondout Valley Board of Education trustees are expected to act on recommendations from the district's administration on July 24 and announce not only line-item expenditures, but what staff, programs or sports must be cut for the district to meet the boundaries of a 2001-2002 contingency budget. A contingency budget of $39,686,199 was adopted at the June 26 school board meeting. Separately, residents have voiced concern about the possibility that a severance payment that might be made to Rondout Valley High School principal William Cafiero would be included in the District’s austerity budget. Cafiero was the subject of a sexual harassment investigation in July 2000. (Freeman 7/24/91 & BSP 7/20/01)

Legal Notice: Logyard Hearing (7/27/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Rochester will hold public hearings on the 7th day of August 2001, at the Town Hall, located at 50 Scenic Road, Accord, NY, on the following applications: 7:00 p.m., Application by Sandra F. Straus for Area Variance for rear yard setback for studio/workshop addition to Applicant's residence located at 25 Old Lucas Turnpike, Accord, N.Y. on Tax Map 77.001-02-37.110 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. 7:20 p.m., Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log concentration yard to include firewood and mulch processing on property located at 325 Kyserike Road, High Falls, NY, on Tax Map #69.004-02-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted applications and maps are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, N.Y. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicants must be present or represented at the hearing. (Freeman 7/26/01)

Election 2001 - Candidates (7/9/01)

Republican incumbents Harold Lipton (Supervisor), Veronica Sommer (Town Clerk) and Wayne Kelder (Highway Superintendent) have announced plans to seek re-election in November 2001. Republican candidate Brian Drabkin also announced plans to seek a seat on the Town Board. Democratic incumbent Tony Spano and Brit Baker have also announced plans to seek seats on the Town Board on the Democratic ticket. (BSP 7/6/01)

Log Yard Hearing Postponed (7/9/01)

The Zoning Board of Appeals has postponed a hearing on the application by the Lapp family to continue to operate their unlicensed log yard concentration yard on Kyserike Road, next door to Cross Lumber. The postponement to August 7, 2001 was at the applicants' request and would normally be the last permitted postponement. Separately, a log truck owned by the Lapps was allegedly involved in a hit and run accident in Westchester County in June.

Local Farm Receives Barn Restoration Grant (7/9/01)

Christopher Kelder of Accord received a $17,946 grant from the New York State Barns Restoration and Preservation Program. The Kelder barn is a Dutch barn dating from 1815. The program is administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Funds are available for capiral repairs for agricultural buildings that are at least 50 years old. (BSP 7/6/01)

Aerial Survey of the Town of Rochester Available On-Line (7/9/01)

The State of New York has put an aerial survey of the State, including the Town of Rochester, online. The website is free and its URL is: http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gateway/index.html

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (7/9/01)

The KAFAS will hold basic first aid and adult CPR classes on July 24 & 26 from 6:30 -10 pm. Call Marge at 626-3023 for information or to register

No Agreement on School Budget (7/9/01)

KYSERIKE - Members of the Rondout Valley school district's budget advisory committee have failed to come up with recommendations for spending cuts under an austerity plan for the coming school year. On June 26, the Board of Education adopted a $39,686,199 austerity budget after district voters twice rejected a $40.78 million proposal that would have increased spending by 9.98 percent. The austerity plan caps the increase at 7.02 percent, including three percentage points tied to bond payments approved by voters in 1999. Since the initial defeat May 15, district officials have sent a consistent message that some items will have to be cut. Trustees asked budget committee members to take one more hard look at budget line items and make suggestions as to what must be cut. But the committee members ultimately decided that with more information from administration, such decisions can be made at the board level. (Freeman 7/5/01)

Legal Notice - Tax Assessment Roll Complete (7/9/01)

NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the undersigned, the Assessor of the Town of Rochester, County of Ulster, New York has completed the Assessment Roll for said town, for the year 2001, A certified copy thereof has been filed in the office of the Town Clerk of the Town of Rochester on the 1st day of July, 2001 for public inspection. Dated the 1st day of July, 2001. Sharon Hornbeck sole Assessor (Kingston Freeman 7/1/01)

Legal Notice - Bond Issue (7/9/01)

LEGAL NOTICE OF ESTOPPEL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the resolution published herewith has been adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, on the 18th day of June, 2001, and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of this notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Dated: Accord, New York, June 18, 2001 Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk BOND RESOLUTION DATED JUNE 18, 2001. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RECONSTRUCTION AND RESURFACING OF ROADS IN AND FOR THE TOWN OF ROCHESTER, ULSTER COUNTY, NEW YORK, AT A MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST OF $80,000 AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $80,000 SERIAL BONDS OF SAID TOWN TO PAY THE COST THEREOF. WHEREAS, all conditions precedent to the financing of the capital project hereinafter described, including compliance with the provisions of the State environmental Quality Review Act, have been performed, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the total voting strength of the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York as follows: Section 1. The reconstruction and resurfacing of roads in and for the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York is hereby authorized at a maximum estimated cost of $80,000. Section 2. The plan for the financing of the aforesaid maximum estimated cost is by the issuance of $80,000 serial bonds of said Town, hereby authorized to be issued therefor pursuant to the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 3. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the aforesaid class of objects or purposes is at least five years, pursuant to subdivision 20 of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law. It is hereby further determined that the maximum maturity of the serial bonds herein authorized will not exceed five years. Section 4. The faith and credit of said Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, are hereby irrevocably pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same respectively become due and payable. An annual appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds becoming due and payable in such year. There shall annually be levied on all the taxable real property in said Town, a tax sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same become due and payable. Section 5. All other matters except as provided herein relating to the serial bonds herein authorized including the date, denominations, maturities and interest payment dates, within the limitations prescribed herein and the manner of execution of the same, including the consolidation with other issues, and also the ability to issue serial bonds with substantially level or declining annual debt service, shall be determined by the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer of such Town. Such bonds shall contain substantially the recital of validity clause provided for in Section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law, and shall otherwise be in such form and contain such recitals, in addition to those required by Section 51.00 of the Local Finance Law, as the Supervisor shall determine consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 6. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, the power to authorize the issuance of and to sell bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of the serial bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such notes, is hereby delegated to the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed by said Supervisor, consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 7. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation notes may be contested only if: 1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or 2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of publication of this resolution are not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication, or 3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Section 8. This resolution shall constitute a statement of official intent for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.150-2. Other than as specified in this resolution, no monies are, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long-term basis, or otherwise set aside with respect to the permanent funding of the object or purpose described herein. Section 9. This resolution, which takes effect immediately, shall be published in full in the Daily Freeman, together with a notice of the Town Clerk in substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local Finance Law. (Freeeman 6/21/01)

Legal Notice - Planning Board Hearings (7/9/01)

`NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning Board of the Town of Rochester will hold public hearings on the 17th day of July 2001, commencing at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY, on the following Applications: By Peter S. Muriel J. Montalvo for approval of a 4-lot subdivision. Property is located on Route 209, Accord, NY, on Tax Map #69.003-03-35 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. By Randy and Deborah Smith for Special Use Permit for two goats on property located on Old Mine Road. Kerhonkson, NY, on Tax Map #76.009-02-16 and in an R-2 District of the Zoning Map. By Mountain View Stables Inc. for approval of Phase 2 of the Mountain View Stables Inv. subdivision located on private road off Lucas Turnpike, Accord, NY on Tax Map 77.001.02-33.112 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted applications and maps are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearings will be held by the Planning Board at a workshop meeting on July 24, 2001, at 2:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY. (7/5/01)

Rondout Valley School Budget Rejected by Voters (6/20/01)

The revote on June 12, 2001 held to decide on the district's proposed $40.8 million budget was rejected by a margin of 528 votes, forcing the district to accept a contingency budget of $39.7 million. The revised budget will result in cuts in teaching positions, athletic programs and extracurricular activities according to district representatives. The contingent budget reflects a 4% over the budget for the 2000-2001 academic year.

Cell Tower Use Permit Granted (6/20/01)

The Town of Rochester Planning Board approved a special use permit application submitted by Sprint PCS/Independent Wireless One to install additional telecommunications equipment at the existing cellular telephone tower located at 58 City Hall Road. According to the Blue Stone Press, the Town of Rochester is not a participant in coalition of Ulster County communities recently established to review and coordinate cellular telephone tower construction and locations.

Restaurant Special Use Permit Granted (6/20/01)

The Town of Rochester Planning Board approved a site plan approval to Jeffrey Greene to construct and operate a 100 plus seat restaurant on Route 209 in Accord (across from Revenue Markets), near the Saunderskill Farm stand. His previous application had been denied as proposed restaurant was too large for the site. A revised plan was submitted.

Updated Comprehensive Plan? (6/20/01)

Rochester Town Board members discussed the possibility of creating a new master plan because the town is growing at a rapid rate. This year's census indicated Rochester is the fastest-growing town in Ulster County, with 24 percent growth over the last 10 years. "I don't know where the town is going, but it's expanding," said town Code Enforcement Officer Douglas Dymond. "We have never had a month like this before." Dymond said he has taken in almost $10,500 in building permits in May, compared to last May's $2,495. So far, the town has seen applications for 28 new home and 16 mobile home permits this year, he said. People are concerned that multiple-family dwellings will come into the area, Dymond added. "We have to have a plan," Supervisor Harold Lipton said last week, adding the most recent master plan was created more than 30 years ago in 1969. Said Councilman Bill Carroll, "A master plan is a study of where you want the town to go and then zoning law is based on that. The knee-jerk reaction to the words 'master plan' goes back to the 1969 plan, when this community was agricultural and completely rural." Carroll suggested hiring a firm to get the job started and help with planning. He also encouraged the board to look for a group of people to form a committee to make decisions with regard to the plan. Dymond said this could also help the town change outdated codes, such as zoning that prohibits flashing lights on commercial signs along U.S. Route 209. In December, resident Steven Fornal said eight businesses, including Accord Feeds the Needs, the Rainbow Diner and Ulster County Carpet, were blatantly disregarding town laws prohibiting the use of flashing lights on signs. "Currently, all the businesses are complying with the law," Dymond said. Lipton said he did not see the hazard in operating the lights and suggested changing the current zoning law to accommodate the businesses. Councilman Carl Edwards said, "The businesses should come to us and ask us to change the code." (6/4/01)

Copies of Town Master Plan Available (6/20/01)

Copies of the 1969 Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Rochester are available for $15.00 (to cover the cost of duplication) by mailing a check payable to the Rochester Residents Association, Inc. PO Box 257, Accord, NY 12404. This plan is still in force and is not available from the Town Clerk's office as discovered during a recent telephone inquiry. The Plan clearly outlines what uses are permitted in each part of town and contains a map of permitted uses and grandfathered uses.

Democrats Wanted: (6/20/01)

The Town of Rochester Democratic Committee is seeking interested people to serve on its Board. The Committee is also inviting people interested in being candidates in the upcoming November town elections. Please contact Max Finestone for further information: 626-7373.

Legal Notice: Planning Board (6/20/01)

Notice is hereby given, that the Planning Board of the Town of Rochester will hold public hearings on the 19th day of June 2001, commencing at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, N.Y. on the following: Application by Jeffrey Greene for Site Plan Approval for restaurant on property located on Route 209, Accord, N.Y. on Tax Map #76.002-02-49 and in the 'B' and 'F' Districts of the Zoning Map. Application by Independent Wireless One/Sprint PCS for Special Use Permit for co-location of a wireless telecommunication facility consisting of four panel antennas mounted to the existing Cellular One Tower and the installation of related equipment within the existing compound area on property owned by Gladys Wicks located at 58 City Hall Road, Accord, N.Y. on Tax Map #68.003-02-47.100 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted applications and maps are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, N.Y. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearing will be rescheduled for June 26, 2001, at the Town Hall, Accord, N.Y. (6/7/01)

Legal Notice: School Transportation Bids (6/20/01)

NOTICE TO BIDDERS BIDS FOR 2001-2002 TRANSPORTATION The Board of Education of the Rondout Valley Central School District at Accord, County of Ulster, Accord, New York 12404, (in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law) hereby invites the submission of sealed bids on: TRANSPORTATION OF PUPILS for the 2001-2002 School Year Bids will be received until 2:00 PM on the 31st day of July at the District Office, 122 Kyserike Rd., Accord, New York 12404, at which time and place all bids will be opened publicly. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the same office between 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM. bids specifications will be available on July 18th. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any formalities in or to reject or to accept any or all bids. No bidder may withdraw his bid within sixty (60) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Dennis T. Geisler Asst. Supt For Finance (Daily Freeman 5/27/01)

Legal Notice: Fire Department Construction Bids (6/20/01)

THE ACCORD FIRE DISTRICT requests the submission of bids for the construction of a 40x60 building, to be utilized as the Social Hall for the Rochester #2 Fire House at 922 Samsonville Road. bid specs may be requested by writing to the Accord Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners. Bids to be submitted by July 25, 2001 when they will be publicly opened and read at 7:00 P.M. at the Accord Fire House. The Accord Fire District Board reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids. Alexander Chalm District Secretary (Daily Freeman 6/18/01)

Legal Notice: School Budget Revote (6/20/01)

NOTICE OF SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT MEETING FOR PURPOSES OF BUDGET RE-VOTE RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special School District Meeting for purposes of a Budget Re-Vote will be held on Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at the Gymnasium at the Rondout Valley High School, on Kyserike Road, Accord, New York, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. prevailing time, when the polls will be open for the purpose of voting by voting machine on the Budget for the 2001-2002 school year. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for School District purposes during the 2001-2002 school year (the Budget), exclusive of public monies, may be obtained by any resident of the District during business hours, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at each of the District's schoolhouses and at the District Offices, effective, May 29, 2001, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the School District shall require all persons offering to vote at the Special School District Meeting to provide one form of proof of residency, including but not limited to: Driver's License with physical address Non-Driver Identification Card Voter Registration Card Check Book State Tax Form Heading with School ID #543 Automobile Insurance Policy NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Section 2018-b of the Education Law, applications for absentee ballots for the Special School District Meeting may be obtained at the Office of the District Clerk at least seven (7) days prior to the vote if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or the day before the vote if the ballot will be picked up personally by the voter. Written requests for absentee ballots must be made at least seven (7) days and no more than thirty (30) days prior to the vote. Absentee ballots must be received at the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on the day of the vote, June 12, 2001. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District at the Office of the District Clerk during regular office hours, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., prevailing time, until the day of the Election and Vote. Any qualified voter may file a written challenge of the qualifications of a voter whose name appears on such list, stating the reasons for the challenge. Dated: May 22, 2001 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT By: Lorraine P. Sciarrino, District Clerk Daily Freeman 5/27/01

Ulster County Tax Lien Sale (5/22/01)

Properties foreclosed upon by Ulster County will be sold at auction on June 8, 2001 at 9:30 AM at the Student Dining Center - Vanderlyn Hall at Ulster County Community College. For an online listing and map of all properties, please visit the Ulster County website at: http://www.co.ulster.ny.us/

School Budget Defeated. Re-vote Scheduled (5/22/01)

Rondout Valley school district voters on May 15, 2001 defeated a proposed $40.78 million budget by a vote of 1,366-1,098. The defeated budget called for a spending increase of $3.7 million, or 9.8 percent. Three candidates won uncontested seats on the Board of Education. Incumbent Nancy Taylor received 1,636 votes; Ottoviano Cilenti 1,378, and Holly Elliott, 1,327. There were some complaints about the voting process as voter identification was not required and the District did not have a list of eligible voters. A second and final budget re-vote is scheduled for June 12. Voting will be from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the high school gym. No changes to the original proposed budget were made. If the budget is defeated a second time, the district, under state law, will be required to adopt an austerity plan that limits the spending increase to 120 percent of the consumer price index, which would be 3.96 percent. (Freeman 5/16/2001 and 5/17/2001)

Planning Board to Meet on Route 209 Property Boundary Change (5/22/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning Board of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 29th day of May 2001, commencing at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY, on Application by Richard A. Travers and Christine T. Cohoe for boundary line adjustments of properties located on Route 209, Accord, NY, on Tax Map #77.001-02-1.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 and in the `B', R-1 and `F' Districts of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearing will be held by the Planning Board at our Regular Meeting on June 19, 2001, at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, (Freeman 5/22/01)

Legal Notice of Safe Schools Hearing (5/22/01)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing on New York State SAVE Legislation (Safe Schools Against Violence in Education) will be held on May 21, 2001, at 7:00 p.m. (prevailing time) at the Rondout Valley Schools District Office on Kyserike Road, Accord, New York, for the purpose of reviewing the proposed District Code of Conduct, the District-wide School Safety Plan and the Building Safety Plan. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT By: Lorraine P. Sciarrino District Clerk (Freeman 5/14/01)

Forest Fire in Accord (5/6/2001)

A forest fire raged for more than two days and burned approximately 750 acres during a forest fire that started on April 29, 2001. The fire was fought by nearly 150 firefighters from twelve fire companies. The fire started approximately two miles up a snowmobile trail on the south side of Vernooy Kill Mountain into the Catskill State Park. The shortage of rainfall and the recent hot temperatures contributed to the fire. BSP 5/4/01)

School Budget Vote to Take Place on May 15 (5/6/2001)

The Rondout Valley Central School District will hold an election to seek voter approval for its proposed $40.8 million budget. The budget is approximately 10% higher than last year, requiring a similar increase in the tax levy. A budget hearing will be held on May 8 at the High School auditorium at 7:30 pm. (BSP 5/4/01)

School Board Elections to Take Place on May 15 (5/6/2001)

Three candidates are on the ballot to fill three open seats. The candidates are Nancy Taylor (incumbent Board President), Dr. Holly Elliott of Kerhonkson and Ottoviano Cilenti of Accord. (BSP 5/4/01)

Ulster County Air Quality Rated D (5/6/2001)

For the second year in a row, Hudson Valley counties showed high quantities of smog in an air-quality test conducted by the American Lung Association. Dutchess and Ulster counties received an "F" and a "D," respectively, on the second annual report. The report is based on information collected, from 1996 through 1999, at U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ozone-monitoring sites in 26 of New York's 62 counties. From 1996-98, Dutchess County had 21 days with ozone levels that the association considers unhealthy, and from 1997-99, there were 23. Ulster experienced seven unhealthy days in the first three years and eight in the more recent period. A toll-free hotline maintained by the state Department of Environmental Conservation updates ozone alerts daily at (800) 535-1345. The report also is available on the Internet at stateoftheair.org. (Freeman 5/2/01)

Democratic Committee of Rochester Seeks Members and Candidates (5/6/2001)

The Town of Rochester's Democratic Committee is seeking three committee members to fill its ranks and also would like to interview potential candidates to seek office in the November election. For more information, please contact Max Finestone at 626-7373.

Cottage for rent (5/6/2001)

Two bedroom - 1&1/2 bathrooms - Kitchen with dining area - large screened porch. Available Memorial Day thru Labor Day (possibly longer ) $3,000 for season. Security required - please no pets. Located on Rock Hill Rd. in High Falls. For more information, call 845-687-7992 or email joemarl54@aol.com

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (5/6/2001)

May 12- 4hr. First Aid Class- 9am; May 22 & 29- CPR class- 6:30pm; Call 626-3023 or 626- 5912 for questions or to register

Legal Notice: Town of Rochester Tax Roll (5/6/2001)

NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Assessor of the Town of Rochester, County of Ulster has completed the Tentative Assessment Roll for the current year and that a copy has been left with Assessor at Town Hall, where it may be seen and examined by any interested person until the fourth Tuesday in May. The Assessor will be in attendance with the Tentative Assessment Roll on Wednesdays and Thursdays, between the hours of 9:00-11:00AM and 1:00-3:00PM, and on Saturday, May 12 between the hours of 9:00AM-1:00PM. The Board of Assessment review will meet on Tuesday, May 22, between the hours of 6:00PM and 10:00 PM in said Town, to hear and examine all complaints in relation to assessments, on the written application of any person believing himself to be aggrieved. Dated this 1st day of May, 2001 Sharon Hornbeck Assessor Kingston Freeman (5/1/01)

Legal Notice Log Yard Hearing on May 8 (5/6/2001)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 8th day of May 2001, at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, located on Granite Rd., Accord, NY, on Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log concentration yard to include firewood and mulch processing. Property is located at 325 Kyserike Road, High Falls, NY, on Tax Map #69.004-02-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicant must be present or represented at the hearing.'' Kingston Freeman (4/26/01)

Legal Notice: Budget Vote (5/6/2001)

NOTICE OF ANNUAL BUDGET VOTE AND BOARD ELECTION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Budget Vote and Board Election will be held in the gymnasium at the High School on Kyserike Road, Accord, New York, on Tuesday, May 15, 2001, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensing year for school purposes may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding the annual vote and election except Saturday, Sunday and holidays, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the following locations: Kerhonkson School Rosendale School High School Middle School District Office NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing on the Budget will be held on May 8, 2001, at 7:30 p.m. (prevailing time) at the High School on Kyserike Road, Accord, New York, for the purpose of presenting the budget document for the school year, July 1, 2001 -June 30, 2002. NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the Office of member of the Board of Education must be filed with the Clerk of the District not later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 16, 2001. The term of office is for (3) years. The following vacancies are to be filled: Term of Louis Costa, expiring June 30, 2001 Term of Anne Payne, expiring June 30, 2001 Term of Nancy Taylor, Expiring June 30, 2001 Each petition shall be directed to the Clerk of the School District, shall be signed by at least 79 qualified voters of the district, shall state the residence of each signer, and shall state the name and residence of the candidate. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that, pursuant to the Education Law, any legal resident of the District may vote without prior registration. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots for the Annual Election and Vote must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, (May 8, 2001) or the day before the election (May 14, 2001), if the ballot is to be picked up personally by the voter. Absentee ballots must be received at the Office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 P.M., prevailing time, on the day of the Election and Vote, May 15, 2001. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District at the Office of the District Clerk during regular office hours, 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., prevailing time, until the day of the Election and Vote. Any qualified voter may file a written challenge of the qualifications of a voter whose name appears on such list, stating the reasons for the challenge. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that any proposition or question not requiring official in the call of the annual vote and election may be voted upon at said vote and election, providing a petition signed by at least one hundred (100) qualified voters, together with the legal residence of each, is filed with the Clerk of the District no later than thirty (30) days before the vote. Dated: March 26, 2001 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT BY: Lorraine P. Sciarrino, District Clerk Kingston Freeman (4/29/01)

Legal Notice: Tan Associates (5/6/2001)

NOTICE OF FILING OF TAN ASSOCIATES, LLC 1. The name of the limited liability company is TAN Associates, LLC 2. The date of filing of the articles of organization with the Secretary of State was: April 19, 2001. 3. The County within this State in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is: Ulster. 4. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 54 Laurel Hollow Road, Kerhonkson, N.Y. 12446. Kingston Freeman (5/1/01)

Accord Speedway Sold (4/24/01)

Dave and Hank Flach have sold the Accord Speedway on Whitfield Road to Gary and Donna Palmer, a racing family from Connecticut. The new owners have announced plans to immediately bring the quarter-mile dirt oval "back to life." Gary Palmer said that he plans to promote the facility to the best of his ability, with increased advertising in both trade papers and local papers, more involvement with DIRT Motorsports, and a brand new website, which will be launched sometime during the coming month. For the 2001 season, the speedway will be a full member of DIRT Motorsports. A new starting time will be in place for the upcoming season, with the first heat race taking the green flag at 7 p.m., instead of 7:30 which was in place for the past few seasons. Gates will open at 4 p.m., and hot laps will take to the track at 6 p.m. promptly. "We need that extra half hour," analyzed Donna, an avid race fan herself. "Racing has to be finished by 11:30, so giving us that bit of time will be a big help." Racing will begin on May 4th. For more information visit www.accordspeedway.com.

Development for Kyserike Road and Route 209 Proposed (4/24/01)

Randy Hornbeck and his son Randy S. Hornbeck submitted plans two separate plans for a 10,000 commercial property and a seven lot subdivision at the property they recently acquired, "Hornbeck Territory, " located at near the corner of Kyserike Road and Route 209. The proposed project would include 52 parking spaces and allow for a maximum of 48 vehicular trips per hour. No plans for the actual building or its use were presented, with the Hornbecks announcing that they did not intend to construct the building, but sell or lease the property once the permits were obtained. The residential application proposes a seven lot residential development on a 28 acre section of land owned south of Kyserike Road, located to the southeast on Old Kings Highway. The two plans were submitted to the Rochester Planning Board on April 17, 2001. The Board determined that the plans were incomplete and "inaccurate". The property on Route 209 is being fenced in order to house cattle [which would provide substantial property tax relief]. Local residents have expressed concern about the owners’ recent DEC violations, which indicated the illegal filling in of wetlands. The proximity to properties located on the National Historic Register was also mentioned. The senior Hornbeck serves on the Town of Rochester Planning Board. (BSP 4/20/01)

Rondout Valley School Board Proposes 2001-2002 Budget (4/24/01)

The Rondout Valley school board adopted a proposed $40,782,043 school budget that would increase spending by 9.98 percent and the tax levy by 9.96 percent. While the tax levy is projected to rise to $21.79 million from $19.81 million, Interim Business Administrator Dennis Geisler said the districtwide tax rate should stay pretty much the same as the current year. Last year's full-value tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value was $23.96; the rate for the coming year is projected at $23.91, he said. A public hearing will take place on May 8. The budget vote will take place on May 15. (Freeman 4/20/01)

Candidates for School Board Seats (4/24/01)

Three candidates will stand unopposed for the three-year school board seats on May 15. The candidates are: Ottoviano Cilenti, Holly Elliott and Nancy Taylor. The existing board is comprised of : Nancy Taylor – President; Anne Payne - Vice President; Louis Costa; Gail Hutchins; Rebecca Reeder; Michael Redmond; Chic Sciarrino; Maureen Sheehan; Jo Shuman plus one student member. To obtain an absentee ballot application, call the District at 845-687-2400 x 4813 at least seven days prior to the election.

Rochester Town Board Tied on Hudson Dredging (4/24/01)

The Rochester town board voted on April 12 to take no position on the subject of dredging to remove PCBs from the Hudson River. Councilmen Spano and Santosky voted in support of dredging and Supervisor Lipton and Councilman Edwards voted against the measure. Councilman Carroll was absent. (Freeman 4/14/01)

Stone House Tour (4/24/01)

Five stone houses in Marbletown will be open for public tour Saturday in an event being sponsored by the Ulster County Historical Society. All of the proceeds from the event will go to fund the Historical Society. The tour will start at 11 a.m. at the Ulster County Historical Society building on U.S. Route 209 north of the hamlet of Marbletown. The society building has variously aged areas of construction, the earliest dating to the early 17th century. The building will open at 10:30 a.m., allowing those interested to take a tour of that site. The tour fee is $25 per person. (Freeman 4/24/01)

The Kerhonkson Rail Trail (4/24/01)

Two meetings were held on March 21 and 22 to discuss plans to extend the rail trail by approximately 1.2 miles from the Town of Rochester Line to Route 44/55. Members of the Kerhonkson Lions Club, National Park Service, D&H Corridor Heritage Alliance and Hudson & Pacific Designs, answered questions and documented concerns from about 50 local residents. Draft sketches of Parks and Trail Heads were presented to the audience, on the second night at the Kerhonskson Firehouse. Another meeting is to be held on May 2, 2001 at the Kerhonkson Firehouse at 7:30 p.m. for more information, contact John Motzer by e-mail at jmotzer@ulster.net.

Legal Notice - Trailers (4/24/01)

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town Board of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on May 3, 2001 at 7:00 pm at the Town Hall, Accord, NY re: Local Law #1 of 2001 amending section 99-5 of the Code of the Town of Rochester. All interested persons will be heard. The Regular Town Board Meeting will immediately follow. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD VERONICA I. SOMMER TOWN CLERK/TAX COLLECTOR/RMC (Freeman 4/12/01) [Section 99-5 relates to the placement of trailers. The proposed amendment would require the removal of old trailers if new trailers are brought on the property.]

Rochester Food Pantry Needs Volunteers (4/24/01)

The Rochester Food Pantry opened its doors in the spring of 1992 for our town residents in need of assistance. The volunteers who staff the Pantry provide a most important service for our community. One of the group’s volunteers, Doris Miller will soon be "retiring" from her "shopping" responsibility. We desperately need some one to take her place. Shopping means a trip to Cornwall about once every 6 weeks to pick up food from the Mid Hudson Food Bank of the Hudson Valley. Bob Christian, from Christian Greenhouse in Kerhonkson volunteers his van and his muscle doing whatever is necessary on that day. The "shopper" also does a few other things such as picking up eggs about once a month. Shopping is done on Tuesday or Thursday in the early morning. If you are willing to help please call the Pantry at 626-7501 and leave a message. Doris will devote whatever time is necessary to help you learn the "job."

THE KERHONKSON LIONS CLUB will hold a PENNY SOCIAL on May 5, 2001 at the Kerhonkson Fire house. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Drawings start at 7:30 p.m. To contribute goods for the event, contact Rhoda Lane at 626-7328 (4/24/01)

Town Resident Files Notice of Suit (4/8/01)

Accord resident David Stoltz notified the Town of Rochester that he intends to file a $4 million suit against the Town, its highway department superintendent and other employees allegedly involved in a physical assault against Stoltz on February 8, 2000. The notice asserts that Stoltz’s federal civil rights of free speech and other constitutional rights were violated and that he was humiliated and harassed by Town employees in the incident. Stoltz is represented by Kingston attorney Steven Gottlieb. (Freeman 4/5/01)

Town Board Notes (4/8/01)

The Rochester Town Board voted to table a decision on the issue of the proposed dredging of the Hudson River because not all members were present. The issue will tentatively re-addressed on April 12^th. At the meeting, the Board voted to prohibit the disposal of tires that are still attached to metal rims, and made minor appropriations for a Youth Commission telephone and sand for a ball field. (Freeman 4/7/01)

Local Scholarship Announced (4/8/01)

The Rondout Valley Scholarship Fund and the Town of Rochester have announced a scholarship to honor Rochester resident, Dr. Paul Greengard, a recipient of the 2000 Nobel Prize in Medicine. The scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding Rondout Valley High School student who is interested in studying medicine or science. The recipient must be a resident of the Town or Rochester. Potential recipients are being interviewed this week and the winner will be announced at graduation. Contributions to the scholarship fund can be made by check payable to the "Rondout Valley Scholarship Fund, Inc.," PO Box 96, Stone Ridge, NY 12484. Contributions are tax deductible (BSP 4/6/01)

Hudson Valley Economy Slower According to Report (4/8/01)

A Marist College Bureau of Economic Research. In a report in March 2001 reported that the Hudson Valley economy did not expand in 2000.released Tuesday, the bureau said state Department of Labor statistics show the local economic expansion lasted from the second quarter of 1996 through the end of 1999 (with one quarter of economic decline in mid-1999). In each quarter of 2000, the number of jobs held by local residents - a key economic indicator - was lower than in the corresponding quarters a year earlier, said Ann Davis, director of the bureau. In the fourth quarter of 2000, overall job numbers in the Hudson Valley declined by about one-half of 1 percent from a year earlier, the report stated. The biggest declines were in Greene and Rockland counties. There were gains of less than 1 percent in Ulster, Dutchess and Columbia counties and a gain of 3 percent in Putnam County. Unemployment in the region was a scant 2.7 percent for the year, below the national, state and New York City rates, according to the report. The highest local unemployment rates were in Greene and Sullivan counties, though each remained below 5 percent; the lowest was in Putnam, at 2.2. percent. (Freeman 3/21/01)

Rondout School District Votes to Prohibit Boy Scout Sponsorship (4/8/01)

Rondout Valley school board members have voted unanimously on March 27, 2001 not to sponsor any group that does not follow the district's non-discrimination policy. The action taken by the Board of Education Tuesday night stemmed from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding the Boy Scouts of America's right to exclude homosexuals, and from discussion among trustees about such groups that use school buildings for meetings or events. While the resolution does not prohibit such groups from using school facilities, it does withdraw "current or future" sponsorship by the district. (Freeman 3/29/01)

Traffic Concerns Near High School (4/8/01)

In another matter, several bus drivers who work for busing contractors on a daily basis in the Rondout Valley school district asked school trustees to consider several safety factors that need attention. "I am speaking as a citizen of the district and a taxpayer and a bus driver onoccasion," said Wes Cross. "There is a serious parking problem on Kyserike Road. The school district is a major property owner. I spoke to town of Rochester Town Supervisor Harold Lipton and he said one strong letter from the school district with someone at the town meeting representing the school district about this and he would eagerly entertain taking some action. Bus driver Carol Fisher echoed Cross' statement, saying the district also needs to address dangerous traffic situations at the middle school. She said parents' and teachers' vehicles commingle with the buses and even go through the buses' red flashing lights. Fisher is concerned a student will be struck. Drivers also expressed concerns about student behavior on buses. Officials said the drivers' concerns would be reviewed. (Freeman 3/29/01)

School Bus in Traffic Accident on Kyserike Road (4/8/01)

Eight students aboard a school bus and three other persons were injured in a three-vehicle accident at Lucas Ave. and Kyserike Road on March 30, 2001. The injured were treated at local hospitals and released according to Sheriff's deputies. Authorities said that Jeremy Feldman failed to yield to oncoming traffic and that his car struck a car driven by Robert Dupuy. Dupuy's car was spun into a school bus, driven by Austin Sweeney, stopped at a stop sign. (Freeman 3/31/01)

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Offers Classes (4/8/01)

The KAFAS will hold a CPR training course on April 21at 9am. Call Marge @ 626-3023 to register

Helping Hands for Kids Craft Fair – April 28 (4/8/01)

Helping Hands for Kids, a volunteer parent/child group based in the school community and dedicated to helping families in need in our district is hosting a Craft Fair on April 28th, 2001 at the Rondout High School gym. A wide assortment of craft vendors will be there. Please visit us and help this worthy cause-- It's a great place to get those hard to find personalized gifts! If you would like to be a vendor- spaces are $25.00 each- Call Debbie Gottstine at 687-2400 ext 4218 or Lucy Van Sickle at 338-3022 evenings.

Alligerville Resident Arrested (4/8/01)

Alligerville resident Ronald Hunlock, who has worked at Sing Sing Correctional Facility in Ossining for five years, was charged on March 29, 2001 with animal cruelty for allegedly killing five kittens in a trash compactor. Sgt. Hunlock found a box of kittens in an inmate's cell during a search on March 11 according to Department of Correctional Services. He was arrested on March 29 and was to be suspended without pay. (Freeman 3/30/01)

Legal Notice – Bungalow Colony Conversion (4/8/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning Board of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 17th day of April 2001, commencing at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY, on Application by the Billie Freeman Asset Management Trust for Special Use Permit to convert a boardinghouse and two bungalows from seasonal to year-round and a duplex bungalow into two apartments. Property is located at 521 Granite Road, Kerhonkson, NY, on Tax Map #76.019-01-06 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearing will be held by the Planning Board at at workshop meeting on April 24, 2001, at 7:00PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY. (4/5/01).

Local Resident Alleges Physical Assault by Highway Department Workers (3/19/01)

Accord resident David Stoltz has filed a harassment complaint against members of the Town's Highway Department for an incident that allegedly took place on February 8. Stoltz has complained about what he believed was the improper storage of chemicals in a Highway Department bard adjacent to Stoltz's property on Main St. in Accord. When he photographed the workers at the barn in conjunction with a complaint he filed with the Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Stoltz alleges that he was attacked by at least five members of the Highway Department in the presence of Highway Superintendent Wayne Kelder. Subsequent to the attack, officers at the State Troopers' barracks in Ellenville refused to take Stoltz's statement until Stoltz filed a formal complaint with the State Trooper Command in Albany. Stoltz is considering legal action against the Town and the individuals involved (BSP 3/17/01)

Local Resident Withdraws Physical Harassment Complaint Against Code Enforcement Officer (3/19/01)

Accord resident Stan Breite dropped charges against Code Enforcement Officer Douglas Dymond after a meeting on March 13 arranged by Ulster County Assistant District Attorney Ray Tomaselli in which Dymond told Breite, "I regret that the incident took place. Let's set it aside and move on." The incident, in which Breite alleged that Dymond attacked him in Dymond's Planning/Zoning office, took place in May 2000. Dymond was to have gone on trial in Rochester for the incident on March 28. Breite had earlier offered to drop charges in discussions with the Town Board in July and August 2000 in exchange for an apology or similar statement from Dymond.

Illegal Excavation on Wetlands (3/19/01)

The DEC is investigating the illegal excavation of designated wetlands and the unapproved installation of culverts at a property located near the corner of Kyserike Road and Route 209, across from Hornbeck's. The property was recently acquired by Randy Hornbeck, a member of the Town Planning Board.

Fatal Auto Accident in Kerhonkson (3/19/01)

Paul Neumann of Krum Road in Kerhonkson was killed in an automobile accident on Route 44/55 at 6:45 am on March 16. State Troopers said his Ford Ranger pickup collided with another automobile driven by Steven Westridge, of Park Lane, Kerhonkson. Westridge was treated for head injuries at St. Francis Hospital and released (Freeman 3/17/01)

Census Indicates Population Growth in Town and County (3/19/01)

U.S. Census figures released on March 15 reported that Ulster County's population grew by about 8% between 1990 and 2000 to a population of 177,749 people. The Census Bureau had predicted growth of only 1.2%. The population of the Town of Rochester increased 24% from 5,679 people to 7,018 in the same ten year period. Full information on the Census can be found at www.census.gov. (Freeman 3/16/01)

Kyserike Road Log Yard Hearing Postponed (3/19/01)

The March 14 public hearing for a Use Variance application by Robert Lapp to continue to operate his log yard on Kyserike Road was postponed to April 10 by the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals. Lapp was cited by the Town's Code Enforcement Officer in October for exceeding the regulations of the residentially-zoned property (next door to Cross Lumber). Lapp has used the 9.2 acre property for several years to store logs and firewood and for mulching without zoning approval. Approximately 10 residents appeared at the scheduled March 14 hearing to protest the application (BSP 3/17/01)

Cell Tower Proposed in Kripplebush (3/19/01)

Crown Atlantic Company, on behalf of Verizon Wireless and Nextel, has proposed a 170' high cellular telephone tower along Route 2 in Kripplebush (near Bone Hollow Rd). The application is being reviewed by the Marbletown Zoning Board of Appeals. If approved, the tower would serve parts of Rochester. Local residents have expressed concern about the visual impact of the tower. (BSP 3/16/01)

Ulster County Job Fair (3/19/01)

Announcing the first annual Ulster County Job Fair, to be held at the Kingston Armory on Tuesday, March 27, 2001 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Entry level, management, professional, health services and clerical positions. Sponsored by the NYS Dept of Labor, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce of Ulster County, the Ulster County Office of Employment and Training, the Daily Freeman and the Kingston Armory. For more information click on this link: http://www.wdsny.org/ulster/jobfair.htm or call (845) 338-4696.

Little Ones' Library Updated Information (3/19/01)

Little One's Library, located at the Rochester Reformed Church in Accord, is open Wednesdays from 4-6 with Storytime from 4-4:30; Thursdays from 10-12 noon - Storytime is 10-10:30 am and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon with Storytime from 10-10:30 am . It provides library experiences for children ages 0-6 years in the Accord/Kerhonkson area. For more information please call Marie Ulmer at 626-4112 or Sue Matson, 340-3990. The Little One's Library is funded by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County and the NYS Office of Children and Family Services through the Ulster County Department of Social Services Youth Bureau and other community partners. Further information is also available by sending an email to lp41@cornell.edu

Accord Fire District Legal Notice (3/19/01)

LEGAL NOTICE The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Accord Fire District, Accord, New York will receive sealed bids for the purchase of a 2001 Tanker Pumper, 3000 gallon capacity. Bids on such items will be submitted in sealed envelopes to Accord Fire District, Alexander Chalm, Secretary, PO Box 163, Accord, New York 12404 or hand delivered prior to April 18, 2001. Each bid shall bear on the face thereof, the name and address of bidder and must also designate ``Bid for a 2001 Tanker Pumper.'' All bids will be publicly read aloud at a meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Accord Fire District on April 18, 2001, at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Accord Fire House, Main Street, (off Route 209) Accord, New York. Specifications, at the cost of $50.00 to the bidder, may be obtained by calling or writing to Alexander Chalm, Secretary at the above address or calling (914) 626-3707 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Monday and Wednesday. A certified check or bank draft or bid bond in the amount of ten (10%) per cent of the bid shall be submitted with bid in the name of Accord Fire Disrict. Bidders must comply with Laws of the State of New York and ``Non-collusive Bid Certification'' required by Section 103D of the General Municipal Law, must be submitted with each bid. The successful bidder may be required to furnish and pay for satisfactory performance bond. The Board of Fire Commissioners reserves the right to consider bids for a period of forty-five (45) days after their opening, during which time no bidder may withdraw his bid and the right is reserved to the Board of Fire Commissioners to accept or reject any and all bids or to accept the bid which is in the best interest of the Fire District. Dated March 12, 2001 Accord Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners ALEXANDER CHALM, Secretary (Kingston Freeman 3/14/01)

Bond Issuance Legal Notices (2) (3/19/01)

LEGAL NOTICE OF ESTOPPEL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the resolution published herewith has been adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, on the 1st day of March, 2001, and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of this notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Dated: Accord, New York, March 1, 2001. Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk BOND RESOLUTION DATED MARCH 1, 2001. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PAYMENT OF COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ACQUISITION OF GRAVEL FOR GENERAL TOWN PURPOSES IN AND FOR THE TOWN OF ROCHESTER, ULSTER COUNTY, NEW YORK, AT A MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST OF $165,000 AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $165,000 SERIAL BONDS OF SAID TOWN TO PAY THE COST THEREOF. BE IT RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the total voting strength of the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, as follows: Section 1. The payment of costs associated with the acquisition of gravel for general Town purposes in and for the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, is hereby authorized at a maximum estimated cost of $165,000. Section 2. It is hereby determined that the plan for the financing of the aforesaid maximum estimated cost is by the issuance of $165,000 serial bonds of said Town hereby authorized to be issued therefor pursuant to the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 3. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the aforesaid specific object or purpose is at least five years, pursuant to subdivision 35 of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law. It is hereby further determined that the maximum maturity of the serial bonds herein authorized will not exceed five years. Section 4. The faith and credit of said Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, are hereby irrevocably pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same respectively become due and payable. An annual appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds becoming due and payable in such year. There shall annually be levied on all the taxable real property of said Town, a tax sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same become due and payable. Section 5. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, the power to authorize the issuance of and to sell bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of the serial bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such notes, is hereby delegated to the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed by said Supervisor, consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 6. All other matters except as provided herein relating to the serial bonds herein authorized including the date, denominations, maturities and interest payment dates, within the limitations prescribed herein and the manner of execution of the same, including the consolidation with other issues, and also the ability to issue serial bonds with substantially level or declining annual debt service, shall be determined by the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer of such Town. Such bonds shall contain substantially the recital of validity clause provided for in Section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law, and shall otherwise be in such form and contain such recitals, in addition to those required by Section 51.00 of the Local Finance Law, as the Supervisor shall determine consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 7. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation notes may be contested only if: 1) Such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or 2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of publication of this resolution are not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of such publication, or 3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Section 8. This resolution shall constitute a statement of official intent for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.150-2. Other than as specified in this resolution, no monies are, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long-term basis, or otherwise set aside with respect to the permanent funding of the object or purpose described herein. Section 9. This resolution, which takes effect immediately, shall be published in full in the Daily Freeman, which is the official newspaper of said Town for such purpose, together with a notice of the Town Clerk is substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local Finance Law. Kingston Freeman (3/5/01)

LEGAL NOTICE OF ESTOPPEL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the resolution published herewith has been adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, on the 1st day of March, 2001, and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of this notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Dated: Accord, New York, March 1, 2001. Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk BOND RESOLUTION DATED MARCH 1, 2001. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A DUMP TRUCK WITH PLOW AND SANDER FOR THE TOWN OF ROCHESTER, ULSTER COUNTY, NEW YOR K, AT A MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST OF $85,000 AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $85,000 SERIAL BONDS OF SAID TOWN TO PAY THE COST THEREOF. BE IT RESOLVED, by the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the total voting strength of the Town Board of the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, as follows: Section 1. The purchase of a dump truck with plow and sander for the Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York is hereby authorized at a maximum estimated cost of $85,000. Section 2. The plan for the financing of the aforesaid maximum estimated cost is by the issuance of $85,000 serial bonds of said Town, hereby authorized to be issued therefor pursuant to the provisions of the Local Finance Law Section 3. It is hereby determined that the period of probable usefulness of the aforesaid specific object or purpose is five years, pursuant to subdivision 28 of paragraph a of Section 11.00 of the Local Finance Law. It is hereby further determined that the maximum maturity of the serial bonds herein authorized will not exceed five years. Section 4. The faith and credit of said Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, are hereby irrevocably pledged for the payment of the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same respectively become due and payable. An annual appropriation shall be made in each year sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds becoming due and payable in such year. There shall annually be levied on all the taxable real property in said Town, a tax sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such bonds as the same become due and payable. Section 5. All other matters except as provided herein relating to the serial bonds herein authorized including the date, denominations, maturities and interest payment dates, within the limitations prescribed herein and the manner of execution of the same, including the consolidation with other issues, and also the ability to issue serial bonds with substantially level or declining annual debt service, shall be determined by the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer of such Town. Such bonds shall contain substantially the recital of validity clause provided for in Section 52.00 of the Local Finance Law, and shall otherwise be in such form and contain such recitals, in addition to those required by Section 51.00 of the Local Finance Law, as the Supervisor shall determine consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 6. Subject to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, the power to authorize the issuance of and to sell bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of the serial bonds herein authorized, including renewals of such notes, is hereby delegated to the Supervisor, the chief fiscal officer. Such notes shall be of such terms, form and contents, and shall be sold in such manner, as may be prescribed by said Supervisor, consistent with the provisions of the Local Finance Law. Section 7. The validity of such bonds and bond anticipation notes may be contested only if: 1) Such obligations are a uthorized for an object or purpose for which said Town is not authorized to expend money, or 2) The provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of publication of this resolution are not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication, or 3) Such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Section 8. This resolution shall constitute a statement of official intent for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.150-2. Other than as specified in this resolution, no monies are, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long-term basis, or otherwise set aside with respect to the permanent funding of the object or purpose described herein. Section 9. this resolution, which takes effect immediately, shall be published in full in the Daily Freeman, together with a notice of the Town Clerk in substantially the form provided in Section 81.00 of the Local Finance Law. Kingston Freeman (3/5/01)

Legal Notice: Log Yard (3/19/01)

Notice is hereby given, that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 13^th day of March 2001, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Hall, located on Granite Rd., Accord, NY, on Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log yard on property located at 325 Kyserike Rd., High Falls, NY, on Tax Map #69.004-2-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. the above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearings may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicant must be present or represented at the hearing.

Town Board Meeting Discussion on Metro Recycling Mine (3/4/01)

The Town Board addressed questions from a local resident about the possibility of holding a public hearing regarding the Metro Recycling & Crushing mine on Queens Highway in accordance with the rights granted to town governments under the Home Rule doctrine. Supervisor Lipton indicated that the DEC would not permit the Town to restrict mining activity in a Blue Stone Press article. At the meeting, however, he indicated that he would contact the DEC to determine what rights the Town could exercise in this regard.

It was noted that Metro Recycling asked the DEC on February 15 to postpone any further action for an indefinite period. Excavating equipment was noted on the property on March 3, 2001. (BSP 3/2/01)

Town Considers Park on Stonykill (3/4/01)

At its March 1, 2001 meeting, the Rochester Town Board considered ideas on how to convert a 3.8 acre parcel purchased on Project 32 Road nearly 20 years ago into a town park. The Town Board also considered granting a 50’ wide right of way to allow a neighboring property owner to develop his 21 acre property. The property fronts a large swimming hole on the Stony Kill. Local residents Phil and Julie Rose noted the sale of a swimming hole in High Falls and expressed the appeal of developing the subject property for use by town residents. The issue will be discussed at the March 22, 2001 Town Board audit meeting at 4:30 pm. (Freeman 3/2/01)

Unlicensed Mine on Queens Highway (3/4/01)

The existence of an unlicensed mine located behind 385 Queens Highway was recently uncovered when the Town's code enforcement officer responded to an inquiry by a town resident. The 8 acre property is owned by Maria Bentley and, according to the code enforcement officer, was operating prior to the adoption of zoning in the Town. Further evidence to support this has been requested.

Zoning Board to Hold Public Hearing on Kyserike Road Log Yard (3/4/01)

Rochester's ZBA will hold a public hearing to review an application by Robert Lapp for a special use permit to continue to operate the existing log yard at his property at 325 Kyserike Road. At present, no permit has been granted and the log yard business has operated illegally. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, March 13 at 7:00 pm at the Town Hall.

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Officers Elected for 2001 (3/4/01)

President: Brian H. Belile, Vice President: Stanley Hudson, Treasurer: Robin Nigro, Recording Secretary: Glenn Pomerantz, Financial Secretary: Esther Yeager, Captain: Mark Smith, (BSP 2/2/01)

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Gives CPR Lessons (3/4/01)

The next scheduled CPR class at the Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad will be held on Tues., Feb.27 & Mar. 6th at 6:30 pm Must attend both classes Call Marge @ 626-3023 to register or for info. Next 1st Aid class- March 20 & 27th @ 7pm

Survey on Local Job Growth (3/4/01)

Steady job growth in the Hudson Valley will create a brisk hiring pace for the spring season, according to the survey company Manpower Inc. Although 8 percent of Mid-Hudson Valley employers plan cutbacks and 56 percent expect to stay with current payrolls, 36 percent are planning to add staff, said Jim Challen, a spokesman for the Milwaukee-based survey firm. In second-quarter findings by Employment Outlook Survey, Manpower Inc. measured employers' reported intentions to increase or decrease permanent workforce. The study is based on telephone interviews with nearly 16,000 public and private employers in 488 United States markets. Of surveyed Ulster County employers, 40 percent said they will hire more staff. Although 7 percent said they foresee cuts, 53 percent were reported as undecided. Among those planning to add workers are manufacturers, wholesale and retail merchants, public administrators and finance, insurance and real estate and services firms. Cutbacks are expected in transportation and public utilities industries. (Daily Freeman 2/26/01)

Horticultural Hotline (3/4/01)

The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County will re-open its Horticultural Hotline on March 2 for the 2001 garden season. The hotline number is 340-3478 (340-DIRT). Home horticultural questions will be answered by an expert on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. In addition, a diagnostic lab will be open for plant and insect identification ($5.00) and soil tests ($3.00). For more information, please call Dom Parise at 340-3990.

Kerhonkson Revitalization (3/4/01)

Residents are invited to attend two meetings to discuss restoration of the O&W Railroad line and D&H Canal tow path at the Kerhonkson Fire House on March 21 and 22. The Kerhonkson Lions Club is working with the National Parks Service and the D&H Corridor Alliance to rally community support for rejuvenating downtown Kerhonkson. For more information, please contact John Motzer at jmotzer@ulster.net. (BSP 3/2/01)

Rondout Valley Ganders win Basketball Championship (3/4/01)

The Rondout Valley High School varsity girls basketball team won its first ever Mid-Hudson Athletic League on February 22nd in a game against Millbrook in a 49-42 game. (BSP 3/2/01)

Catskill Animal Sanctuary Saves Two Horses (3/4/01)

The Catskill Animal Sanctuary in Accord purchased two draft horses at auction on February 23, saving them from ending up in a slaughterhouse. The initial costs of for the two horses, named Tim and Jim, will be approximately $2,500, not including daily upkeep. At present, the animal sanctuary is only taking in horses, however, other farm animals will be considered once warmer weather sets in. For more information on the not-for-profit organization, please call 626-4006 or log on to www.casanctuary.com (BSP 3/2/01)

Legal Notice: Time Warner Cable Franchise Renewal (3/4/01)

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Time Warner Cable has filed with the New York State Department of Public Service Commission a request for approval of a renewal of its cable television franchise in the Town of Rochester. A copy of the materials constituting the application are available for public inspection at the office of the Town Clerk, the Commission and the Company during normal business hours. Interested parties may file comments or objections with the Commission at Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223-1350. The renewal may not take effect without prior approval of the New York State Department of Public Service Commission. (Freeman 2/20/01)

Letter to the Editor: Vandermark Zoning (3/4/01)

Mr. Fornal is way off the mark, (dare I say the Vandermark?) in describing the auto repair business zoning issue. I am one of the local property owners who brought the situation to the attention of the Zoning officer. While I share many of the concerns about zoning issues in this town, this one the Town got nearly right. In fact, it is difficult to see how Fornal can appear complain about excessive favors to business, and then complain when the Town finally gets one nearly right. And, Mr. Fornal is incorrect when he says "a law suit" has been filed, to my knowledge it is merely an appeal of the Towns decision. And it is VERY unlikely that Mr. Vandemark will prevail. Further, this is not "an expansion of his business" Mr. Vandemark is using a separate parcel of property as a virtual Junk Yard, preferring not to soil his own business yard with these unsightly junk vehicles. But, he has no problem shoving them in the face of his neighbors. In fact, Mr. Fornal stated to me, personally, face to face, that Vandemark's activities are " a bit much". I was going to go over this point by point, but, seeing as how there is very likely to be an actual lawsuit, one way or the other, I will hold my fire till court.

Joe Acquisto.

Update on Queens Highway Mine (2/6/01)

The Dept. of Environmental Conservation expects to forward letters it received from concerned citizens to Metro Recycling by February 9, 2001. Metro will have until February 15, 2001 to respond to the public comments and in responding may revise its application. The DEC is required to make a determination by February 15 as to whether or not a public hearing will be held. The February 15 deadline is mandated under the Uniform Procedures Act, which stipulates that the determination must be made within 60 days of the notice of complete application. The deadline can be extended with the consent of the applicant. Separately, a number of local residents initiated discussions with legal counsel in an attempt to stop the project.

Spano Calls on DEC to Hold Public Hearing (2/6/01)

Councilman Anthony Spano has called upon the DEC to hold a public hearing regarding Metro Recycling's application to operate a crusher at its site on Queens Highway in Accord. When asked by the Blue Stone Press if the Town Board supported Spano's request, Town Supervisor Harold Lipton stated that the Board was "absolutely not" in favor of the request, adding "We didn't vote on it, we didn't even discuss it." The DEC is expected to make a decision on the hearing by February 15. (BSP 2/2/01)

Local Animal Shelter Operators Face Charges (2/6/01)

Patty's Angels Animal Rescue Inc., it owner and its caretaker are expected to go on trial for allegedly failing to provide proper sustenance to a dog that it was sheltering. The shelter is located on Whitfield Road in Accord. The Ulster County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which pressed the charges, first conducted a search of the property in April after an inspection. The charge of "failure to provide proper sustenance" is a misdemeanor that refers to animals being denied proper food, water, shelter, veterinary care and/or sanitary conditions. (Freeman 1/25/01)

Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (2/6/01)

The next scheduled CPR class at the Kerhonkson Accord First Aid squad will be held on Tuesday, Feb.27 and Mar. 6th at 6:30 pm. Both classes must be attended to receive certification. The next first aid class will be held March 20 and 27th at 7pm. Call Marge at 626-3023 to register or for information.

Rochester Youth Center Grant (1/21/01)

The Town of Rochester recently received a $10,000 grant from the New York STate Office of Children and Family. The funds will be used to upgrade the Town's Youth Center in the former Agway building off Main Street in Accord. (BSP 1/19/01)

Continued Strong Real Estate Prices in 2000 (1/21/01)

The Ulster County Board of Realtors reported higher average home sale prices in 2000. The average sale price in Rochester in 2000 was $155,970 (81 homes sold), compared to an average of $121,772 (76 homes sold) in 1999. The strong prices reflected a stronger economy and a strong market for second homes in areas with rural character. (BSP 1/19/01)

Rondout Valley School District Grant (1/21/01)

The Rondout Valley School District received a $21,000 grant from the Sara Anne Wood Abduction Prevention Program to educate young students about crime prevention. The funds will be used for a program on abduction prevention. (Freeman 1/12/01)

Legal Notice: Road Abandonment (1/21/01)
PUBLIC HEARING STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ULSTER PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the undersigned, Commissioner of Highways and Bridges of the County of Ulster acting as Superintendent of Highways pursuant to the provisions of Section 205 of the Highway Law will hold a public hearing on the 7th day of February, 2001 at 9:30 A.M. at the Joseph Y. Resnick Public Works Building located at the corner of Hurley Avenue and Shamrock Lane in the City of Kingston, Ulster County, New York, concerning the proposed qualified abandonment of that portion of Waterfalls Road, a town highway, in the Town of Rochester extending roughly from a point where the centerline meets the bounds of Cherrytown Road and runs for approximately two thousand (2000) feet to a point one hundred (100) feet west of the Waterfalls Bridge. The portion being qualifiedly abandoned being shown on a map which is on file in the offices of the Commissioner of Highways & Bridges of Ulster County. BY ORDER OF JAMES J. DONAHUE COMMISSIONER OF HIGHWAYS & BRIDGES (Freeman 1/18/01)

Letter to the Editor: Rock Mountain Farms Mine (1/21/01)

In regard to the proposed Gravel Pit on Rock Mountain Farms Mine.

I am a little amazed at local politics. As long as it doesn't effect those in charge, then it does no harm to the rest of us. I have only been a home owner on Cathy-Jo Place for a little over a year and so far I have no complaints. However the first notification I got of a proposed mine site off of Queen's Highway was on January 8, 2001. Very Interesting.

My major concern, being the father of a two year old and expecting another one in March is the prolonged effects of the water situation should it indeed become contaminated. As well, I am also concerned about the prolonged air pollution effects that this might have on my family breathing in the stone dust. I am in no position to sell my house at this point, but I will if indeed this situation were to take place. As well, I am not to surprised that a situation such as this would occur in the Town of Rochester. The local politics involving those chosen to represent us is a joke, as well as a farce. It must be nice to walk around with the label of "local politician." Because that's all it is, a label. I honestly believe that in this day in age, with human health and appearance being so important, such a polluting resource would not be allowed to be placed in such a residential area.

I feel that if such a mine were to gain approval in the Town of Rochester, a protest such as the one that took place prior to the re-opening of the Town of Rochester Dump would be for all intensive purposes, a positive thing. It seems as though every time a get rich scheme seems to surface, it is done at the expense of citizens of an area that work hard for their money, but are financially "struggling." This is what makes me so angry. Why not just make it a little more difficult for "the hard working man" the one that gets up every morning and puts in a long hard day just to make ends meet. Then have to come home and fight his way through traffic, in this case big rigs, so he can see his family.

I believe that we need to know the total story before we allow this situation to go any further. In that aspect, without any more knowledge, I will put my home up for sale be the weeks end, and so the next unknowing citizen will buy it and be shafted just like I have been. It is a real shame when a local area cannot keep it's more successful resident around much after college. Case in point, they move away to an area that can afford them a chance to make a living and not deal with the local "politicians." But after this latest move by our chosen leaders, I can see why.

Why do some good for your area and allow people a chance to take pride in what they have. It is just easier to allow a group of uneducated local politicians to make all of the decisions. It just further takes the burden off of us. With that type of leadership we will never unbury ourselves from the label we already have. In the long run it is just easier to kill off a hard working group of people so the rich are not harmed. Hell, who will complain, it seems that we don't now!!

Thank You,

(Name withheld by request)

Letter to the Editor: Code Enforcement (1/21/01)

Back in May 2000, the town Code Enforcement Officer cited a local auto repair owner for unauthorized expansion of a non-grand-fathered use. The town Zoning Board of Appeals subsequently determined said business, while grand-fathered, was in violation vis-à-vis illegal expansion of its business use. Yet, five of seven Planning Board members (a non-elected super majority, mind you, able to usurp even county recommendation to the contrary) voted to allow an illegal situation to continue.

The town's ZBA rendered a decision regarding the above matter, in which it blatantly infringed on the citizen's rights. Said decision sought to limit this person to parking five vehicles (owned, registered and insured by him) on his own private property despite having no limiting town ordinance to that effect. A lawsuit has been filed; one this town will, without a doubt, lose.

In another incident, a Planning Board member sold property to an individual who immediately started a highly visible log storage business on Route 209 without securing any permit/site plan approval to do so. Said Planning Board member apparently never thought to mention said violation to new owner. Of course, said Planning Board member is the same person that secured a personal use building permit to put up a 1500 sq.ft. building out of which he immediately (and illegally) began to operate his business; was cited and bitterly complained about zoning restrictions. Voilà, he becomes a Planning Board member.

Much like another Planning Board member that began putting up a building without securing a permit. He finally was forced to comply with a site plan review, complained bitterly about zoning restrictions. Voilà, he became a Planning Board member.

Another Planning Board member, of seventeen years, apparently got his position after expressing disgust for zoning restrictions on travel camper parks. Same for another long time member that was outraged at the zoning restrictions he came across when he was subdividing his land holdings.

An additional member of the Planning Board (in fact, the chairman, much like our town Supervisor) has often vocalized his displeasure with any/all zoning restrictions on businesses.

Keeping count? That is five Planning Board members. A super majority. Worse, not a single Planning Board member has ANY planning experience whatsoever. None have formal training.

These people/board members are the ones that decide whether or not Special Use Permits will be issued to companies like Metro Recycling & Crushing, Inc. which proposes to crush rock at a 400 ton per hour rate (five thirty-foot dump trailer trucks per hour, ten hours per day, six days per week, for approximately 82 weeks; or, a truck trip every six minutes for nearly two years) replete with industrial level noise in a residential zone immediately surrounded by sixty or so homes.

Unfortunately, such appointed town boards are, in the eyes of the law, especially in a home rule state like New York, considered to be experts with near unassailable authority.

Steven L. Fornal

Accord, NY

School Bus Accident in Kerhonkson (1/8/01)

Five people were injured in an accident involving a small school bus and four other vehicles on U.S. Route 44/ 55 on January 4, 2001. The school bus, which was not carrying children, veered off the road around 1:00 p.m. A vehicle behind the bus swerved to avoid the accident and struck some rocks. Another passing vehicle stopped to investigate the accident and was the front vehicle in a three car chain reaction accident. (Freemen 1/5/01)

Douglas Dymond Trial Postponed (1/8/01)

The harassment trial of Town Code Enforcement Officer, Douglas Dymond, scheduled for Janury 3, 2001, was postponed until March 28 due to an unexpected scheduling conflict with Dymond's defense attorney, Jeremiah Flaherty. The case, which results from the alleged harassment of Rochester resident, Stan Breite, in the Town Planning office no May 18, 2000, is being prosecuted by Ulster County Assistant District Attorney Ray Tomacelli.

Catskill Animal Sanctuary Finds Home (1/8/01)

Jill Spero, a Kerhonkson resident has donated the use of approximately 50 acres on Krum Road to the CAS in its efforts to provide a safe haven to abandoned and abused farm animals. The property is already fenced, has a barn and four stalls. Spero already provides shelter for rescued animals. Jill Shufeldt, the animal control officer for New Paltz, Rosendale Rochester, was appointed animal care director by founders Kathy Stevens and Jesse Moore. The organization has also recruited more than 20 volunteers. (BSP 1/5/01)

Stretch of Route 209 Renamed for Peg Leg Bates (1/8/01)
A 35-mile stretch of U.S. Route 209 is renamed in memory of one-legged tap dancer Clayton "Peg Leg" Bates, who owned the Peg Leg Bates Country Club in Kerhonkson. The segment from Spring Glen in Wawarsing to Route 9W in Ulster will now be known as the Peg Leg Bates Highway after the state Senate and Assembly passed a bill last Spring. Bates was a one-legged tap dancer and vaudeville star whose exceptional skill garnered him an audience before the king and queen of England in 1937 and 1938, as well as 21 appearances on the "Ed Sullivan Show." With his wife, Alice, he opened the Peg Leg Bates Country Club in Kerhonkson, which flourished until his retirement in 1989. Bates died in 1998 at age 91. (Freeman 12/29/00)

Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Offers First Aid and CPR Training (1/8/01)

First Aid Training -1/20/01 - 9:00 am; $20 fee
CPR Training - 1/27/01 - 9:00. $15 fee
Both classes are held at the KAFAS building on Route 209. Call 626-3023 or email mgrammyc@hvi.net to register.

Town Democratic Committee News (1/8/01)

Effective December 4, 2000 Democratic Committee Chair, Mary Mendola, resigned both as chair and a member of the Committee. Martin Duffy, a Committee member for four years, also resigned. In addition to their resignations, the death of Herbie Poppel last spring has created three vacancies on the Committee. Any Town of Rochester registered Democrat may, if elected by the current Committee, serve as a committee person. Anyone interested in joining the Committee should contact Max Finestone, 626-7373. The Committee will be meeting in mid-January to reorganize. Mendola and Duffy will be present at the meeting to assist the Committee with ensuring a smooth transition. Separately, Town Board member Anthony Spano was sworn in on January 2nd. Spano defeated Leon Smith in the November 2000 special election. Spano was appointed Town Board liason to the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Legal Notice: Planning Board to Review Route 209 Log Yard Permit Application (1/8/01)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Planning Board of the Town of Rochester will hold a public hearing on the 16th day of January 2001, commencing at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY, on the Application by Tri State Hardwoods Ltd., for Special Use Permit for a concentration yard for sale and shipment of logs on property located on Route 209, Accord, NY, on Tax Map #69.003-02-14 and in a `B' District of the Zonning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Planning Board and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or
other representative. Should this meeting be cancelled, the public hearing will be held by the Planning Board at a workshop meeting on January 23, 2001, at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, Accord, NY.'' (Freeman 1/4/01)

Legal Notice: 2001 Property Taxes (1/8/01)

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Receipt of Tax Roll and Warrant PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that I, Veronica I. Sommer, collector of taxes in the Town of Rochester, County of Ulster and State of New York, have received the tax roll and warrant for the collection of taxes within the Town of Rochester for the year 2001 and that I will attend the Town Hall, Accord, New York, in the said Town of Rochester each and every day during the month of January 2001, 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. excepting Saturdays and Sundays and holidays for the purpose of receiving the taxes listed on said roll. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that taxes may be paid on or before the 31st day of January without interest. On all taxes received after such date, there shall be added interest of (1%) one percent of the amount of the unpaid tax for each month or fraction thereof until taxes are paid or until the return of unpaid taxes to the County Treasurer pursuant unto law. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that pursuant to the provisions of law, the tax roll for the Town of Rochester will be returned to the County Treasurer of the County of Ulster on the first day of June, 2001. Dated: 12/31/2000 Veronica I. Sommer Collector of Taxes for the Town of Rochester (Freeman 1/8/01)

Rochester STAR Exemption Filing Deadline is March 1, 2001 (1/8/01)

To apply for the STAR property tax exemption, a state Form RP-425 must be completed and filed with the Town Assessor's office by March 1, 2001. The form is available by calling the Assessor's Office or 888-NYSTAR5. You may also visit the New York State website for an interactive worksheet or to download the form at www.orps.state.ny.us

Legal Notice: Monthly Town Board Meetings (1/8/01)

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Rochester holds its regular monthly Town Board meetings at the Town Hall, Accord, NY on the 1st Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. The Audit Meetings are held the last Thursday of each month at 4:30 pm at the Town Hall. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/ Tax Collector/RMC (Freeman 1/5/01)

DEC Negative Declaration: Queens Highway Mine (1/8/01)

Applicant: Metro Recycling & Crushing Inc
1364 Rte 9
Castleton On Hudson, NY 12033-
Facility: Rock Mountain Farms Mine
Queens Highway
Accord, NY 12404-
Application ID: 3-5144-00065/00001
Permit(s) Applied for: Article 23 Title 27 Mined Land Reclamation

Project is Located: in Rochester in Ulster County.
Project Description:
The applicant proposes to operate a portable jaw crusher with a maximum material processing capacity of 400 tons per hour at an existing 20.5 "life of mine" acre sand and gravel mine. Material processing (screening and crushing) was previously authorized but using a smaller crusher. The location of this site, known as "Rock Mountain Farms" is northeast of Queens Highway between Boodle Hole Road and Roberts Drive.

State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) Determination: Project is an Unlisted Action and will not have a significant impact on the environment. A Negative Declaration is on file. A coordinated review was performed.

SEQR Lead Agency: NYS Department of Environmental Conservation State Historic Preservation Act (SHPA) Determination: Cultural resource lists and map have been checked. No registered, eligible or inventoried archaeological sites or historic structures were identified at the project location. No further review in accordance with SHPA is required.

Coastal Management: This project is not located in a Coastal Management area and is not subject to the Waterfront Revitalization and Coastal Resources Act. Opportunity for Public Comment: Comments on this project must be submitted in writing to the Contact Person no later than Jan 20 2001.

Contact: Lawrence G. Biegel
NYSDEC Region 3 Headquarters
21 South Putt Corners Rd
New Paltz, NY 12561
(845)256-3054

Nine Acres on Route 209 Rezoned (12/26/00)

The Rochester Town Board, in a zoning law amendment, unanimously approved the rezoning of 9 acres on Route 209 at its meeting of December 7, 2000. The two properties are located across from and north of Traficanti's Hillside and are owned by John Grinell and Randy Hornbeck. The property owners did not present any specific proposed uses. As required by law, the Town sought the Ulster County Planning Board's recommendation for the zoning amendment. The UCPB's recommended that the zoning amendment not be enacted and stated, "the proposed rezoning runs counter to the County Land Use Plan, which seeks to limit strip commercial zones along highways. In addition, the submittal indicates that the proposal is not in accordance with [Rochester's] Development Plan." The county cited the Town's Development Plan's goal of "preventing strip commercial business development along frontage access highways." The owners of the abutting 21 properties, 20 of which are zoned residential, do not appear to have been notified by the Town of the pending action. The rezoning makes the properties much more valuable commercially and Grinell indicated that he made the request to create a continuous commercial strip because his intention is to sell the land. (BSP 12/15/00)

Notice of Completed Application for Queen's Highway Mine (12/26/00)

The full re-opening and expansion of mining and related activities at the Rock Mountain Farms Mine came one step closer as the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation notified interested parties in a letter dated 12/13/2000 that Metro Recycling & Crushing Inc.'s application to install a 400 ton/hr rock crusher is now complete. The DEC determined that the proposed action "will not have a significant effect on the environment and a Draft Environmental Impact Statement will not be prepared." The DEC did, however, negotiate the requirement of "infra-red back up beepers" and a reduction of allowable days/hours of operation of the processing plant. The DEC will accept additional public comment until 1/20/2001. Their address is: NYS Dept of Environmental Conservation, 21 South Putt Corners Rd., New Paltz, NY 12561 Attn: Lawrence G. Biegel. Tel: 845-256-3000, Fax 845-255-3042.

Code Enforcement Officer Arraigned (12/26/00)

Rochester Code Enforcement Officer Douglas Dymond was arraigned in Town Court on December 13, 2000 on charges of second degree physical harassment after an investigation by the Ulster County District Attorney's Office. The charges were filed following a previously reported incident in which Dymond allegedly used physical force to eject Rochester resident Stan Breite out of Dymond's office in Town Hall in May 2000. Dymond contested the charges and was ordered by Town Justice Albert Babcock to file written motions by December 22 to support his request to dismiss the charges. The motions will be reviewed and the trial, if the motions are rejected, will take place on January 3. The Rochester Town Board previously concluded its own investigation, the results of which were not made public. (BSP 12/15/00).

New Assistant Code Enforcement Officer Appointed (12/26/00)

The Rochester Town Board appointed Louis Noest as assistant code enforcement officer at its meeting on December 7, 2000. Noest replaces Percy Greene, who recently passed away. At the same meeting, the Town Board also reappointed Mary Jane Knudsen-Hunlock to the Zoning Board of Appeals until 2005 and reapointed Robert Gaydos to the Planning Board until 2007. (BSP 12/15/00)

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Rochester is seeking bids for the clearing of approximately 1/3 acre of land near the Town Hall boundary in the Town of Rochester. Bids to be received on or before December 27, 2000 at 10:45 a.m. at the Town Clerk's Office, PO Box 65, (50 Scenic Road) Accord, NY 12404 at which time they will be opened. Specifications available at the Town Clerk's Office (845-626-7384). Bids to be awarded at the December 28, 2000 End of the Year Business Meeting. The Town Board has the right to reject any and all bids. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/ Tax Collector/RMC (12/18/00)

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Rochester is seeking bids for the clearing of approximately 3/4 acre of land at the intersection of Queens Highway and Rochester Center Road in the Town of Rochester. Bids to be received on or before December 27, 2000 at 10:30 a.m. at the Town Clerk's Office, PO Box 65, (50 Scenic Road) Accord, NY 12404 at which time they will be opened. Specifications available at the Town Clerk's Office (845-626-7384). Bids to be awarded at the December 28, 2000 End of the Year Business Meeting. The Town Board has the right to reject any and all bids. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/ Tax Collector/RMC (12/18/00)

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Rochester Town Board will hold the End of the Year Business Meeting on December 28, 2000 at 5:30 p.m. following the Audit/Workshop Meeting at the Town Hall, Accord, NY. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/ Tax Collector/RMC (12/18/00)

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Rochester Town Board will hold the Organizational Meeting on January 2, 2001 at 4:30 p.m. at the Town Hall. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD Veronica I. Sommer Town Clerk/ Tax Collector (12/18/00)

LEGAL NOTICE Please take notice that the organizational meeting for the year 2001 of the Accord Fire District of the Town of Rochester, County of Ulster, State of New York, will be held on the 3rd day of January, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. on that day at the Accord Fire House on Main St. This will be followed by the regular monthly meeting for January of the Board of Fire Commissioners starting at 7:30 p.m. This notification is being given to the news media pursuant to the Provisions of Section 94 of the Public Officers Law of the State of New York. By Order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Accord Fire District Alexander Chalm Secretary Accord Fire District (12/18/00)

LEGAL NOTICE The Rondout Valley Central School District has conducted a district-wide fire inspection of its facilities on Thursday, November 7, 2000. Copies of all fire inspection results are available at the district office, located on Kyserike Road, Accord, New York. Anyone wishing to see the specific results of an Inspection for an individual school facility may do so at their local fire department. For the Kerhonkson elementary school you may visit the Kerhonkson fire department; for the high school and middle school you may visit the Accord fire department; for Marbletown elementary school the Stone Ridge fire department; and for the Rosendale elementary school the Cottekill fire department. Dr. Marilyn Pirkle, Superintendent of Schools Dated 12/1/00.

Rondout Valley Ganders Football win at State Championships (12/3/00)

The Rondout Valley High School Ganders defeated former two-time champion Lackawanna by 21-0 at the Syracuse University Carrier Dome in the Class B state championship on November 26, 2000. The vistory was the first Section 9 football team to make it to the state championships and the first Rondout Valley to win in any state contest. A victory parade was held on Sunday, December 3rd on Main Street in Stone Ridge.

Ulster County Planning Board Recommends Rejection of Route 209 Commercial Rezoning (12/3/00)

Following up a request for comments arising from the Rochester Town Board meeting of October 26 relating to a proposed zoning law change of approximately nine acres on Route 209 from R-1 to Business, the Ulster County Zoning Board recommended that the Town reject the proposed rezoning. The proposed rezoning involves two parcels located on Route 209 across from Traficanti's Hillside and northward. According to the County Zoning Board, the proposed rezoning runs counter to the County Land Use Plan which seeks to limit strip commercial zones along highways. In addition, proposal is not in accordance with the community’s Development Plan. The proposal is counter to bother the County and Local Land Use Plan. The County Zoning Board cited the lack of a development proposal and the availability of vacant lands within the B Districts, (which) gives credence to the conclusion that sufficient commercial areas exist within the community to service its needs and that of the traveling public without the rezoning. In addition, the county stated that the R-1 District currently allows a range of uses that offers business opportunities for these properties including gift shops, food and grocery stores, nursery and greenhouses, bed and breakfasts, private clubs, and cultural facilities. These uses generally have less impact on the highway corridor and adjoining residences than those allowed in the B District that include all service establishments, gasoline stations, as well as wholesale businesses.

Animal Shelter Established in Accord (12/3/00)

The Catskill Animal Sanctuary was recently founded in Accord. The organization is a non-profit animal sanctuary and education center that is currently looking for facilities in the area. Catskill Animal Sanctuary plans to provide a safe haven for neglected and abused farm animals and to educate the public about the effects of current practices on humans, animals and the environment. For further information e-mail: staff@casanctuary.com or visit their website at www.casanctuary.com

Friends of Historic Rochester Christmas Candlelight House Tour (12/3/00)

A holiday house tour of three homes will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on December 16 to raise funds for the renovation of the Friends' museum on Accord's Main Street. Tickets are $25 per person and are available by calling 626-2647.

Kerhonkson Lions to Visit Brookside and Kerhonkson Schools (12/3/00)

The Kerhonkson Lions will make their annual visit to the Brookside School, in Cottekill and the Kerhonkson Elementary School on December 18. Santa Claus and his helpers will deliver toys provided by members of the Lions Club.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that license number ULST L 210 4809 222 has been assigned for by the undersigned to sell liquor, wine and/or beer at retail under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, at Pioneer Village Liquor Inc 6109 Route 209 Kerhonkson, N.Y. 12466 (Freeman 11/7/00)

Tony Spano Wins Town Board Election (11/22/00)

Democrat Tony Spano defeated Republican/Conservative incumbent Leon Smith by a margin of 72 votes in the special election for Town Board. The County Board of Elections conducted the official certifying tabulation on November 22 after having received a request to delay the counting from candidate Leon Smith, who had been out of town. The special election was conducted to fill the remainder of the term of the seat vacated by Harold Lipton upon Lipton's election as Town Supervisor in November 1999. The seat had been filled on an interim basis by Leon Smith, who was appointed by the Town Board in late 1999. Spano is the first Democrat elected to the Town Board since 1991 (with the exception of Harold Lipton who was elected in 1997 as a Conservative candidate with the endorsement of the Democratic party). Spano's term expires in Nove

	Kerhonkson Man Killed in Hunting Incident (12/10/01)
	School Board Member Proposes Parking Ban (12/10/01)
	Municipalities to Absorb Part of Public Assistance Cost (12/10/01)
	The Rochester Town Board Notes (12/10/01)
	Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Receives Easement (12/10/01)
	Bear Killed in Village of Alligerville (12/10/01)
	Database of Farm Subsidies (12/10/01)
	Holiday Senior Brunch and Children’s Holiday Party (12/10/01)
	Date Set for Faux Academy Awards (12/10/01)
	Fewer Firms Hiring According to Manpower, Inc. (12/10/01)
	Legal Notice - Bids Sought (12/10/01)
	Accord Fire District Election to be Held on December 11 (12/10/01)
	Accord Fire District - Surplus Equipment Sale (12/10/01)

	Candidates Night - October 29, 2001 (11/1/01)
	New School Board Member (11/1/01)
	KAFAS Classes for November 2001 (11/1/01)
	Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Fundraising Dinner (revised)Democratic Fundraisers (11/1/01)
	Absentee Ballot Deadline (11/1/01)
	Candidates Night on October 29 (11/1/01)
	Kerhonkson & Accord Emergency Services Volunteers Raise $17,000 for WTC Relief (11/1/01)
	Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad Discontinues Annual Fundraiser (11/1/01)
	Republican Candidate Cited by DEC (11/1/01)
	Lapp Log Yard Hearing Closed (11/1/01)
	Deer Season Dates for 2001 (11/1/01)

	tate Audit Finds Town of Rochester Bookkeeping Flawed (10/13/01)
	Republican Council Candidated Fined by DEC (10/13/01)
	Councilman's Report of Investigation of Losses at Town Transfer Station (10/13/01)
	Rochester Board Opts Against Unity resolution (10/13/01)
	Meet the Candidates Night (10/13/01)
	Rochester Residents Association, Inc. Announces Membership Drive (10/13/01)
	Three Seek Vacant Seat on Rondout Valley School Board (10/13/01)
	Deer Season Dates for 2001 (10/13/01)
	High Falls Fire District Notice of Vote (10/13/01)

	Upcoming Nominating Caucuses (9/3/01)
	State Orders Town to Fix Oil Leak at Transfer Station (9/3/01)
	Town Considers Sale of Land Adjacent to Transfer Station (9/3/01)
	Discussion of Planning Board Attendance (9/3/01)
	School Starting Postponed (9/3/01)
	Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continued to September 11 (9/3/01)
	Little Ones’ Library Update (9/3/01)
	Church Celebrates Tricentennial (9/3/01)
	Tax Rates Set in Local Communities (9/3/01)
	Accord Fire District Legal Notice (9/3/01)

	Accord Speedway Sold (4/24/01)
	Development for Kyserike Road and Route 209 Proposed (4/24/01)
	Rondout Valley School Board Proposes 2001-2002 Budget (4/24/01)
	Candidates for School Board Seats (4/24/01)
	Rochester Town Board Tied on Hudson Dredging (4/24/01)
	Stone House Tour (4/24/01)
	The Kerhonkson Rail Trail (4/24/01)
	Legal Notice - Trailers (4/24/01)
	Rochester Food Pantry Needs Volunteers (4/24/01)
	Kerhonkson Lions' Penny Social (4/24/01)

	New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation Notices and Environmental Notice Bulletin.
	Legal Notices (See News & Opinion Page for Legal Notice Archive)
	Letters to the Editor

	Town Resident Files Notice of Suit (4/8/01)
	Town Board Notes (4/8/01)
	Local Scholarship Announced (4/8/01)
	Hudson Valley Economy Slower According to Report (4/8/01)
	Rondout School District Votes to Prohibit Boy Scout Sponsorship (4/8/01)
	Traffic Concerns Near High School (4/8/01)
	School Bus in Traffic Accident on Kyserike Road (4/8/01)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Offers Classes (4/8/01)
	Alligerville Resident Arrested (4/8/01)

	Update on Queens Highway Mine (2/6/01)
	Spano Calls on DEC to Hold Public Hearing (2/6/01)
	Local Animal Shelter Operators Face Charges (2/6/01)
	Kerhonkson Accord First Aid Squad Classes (2/6/01)

	Rochester Youth Center Grant (1/21/01)
	Rondout Valley School District Grant (1/21/01)
	Continued Strong Real Estate Prices in 2000 (1/21/01)
	Legal Notice: Road Abandonment (1/21/01)
	Letter to the Editor: Rock Mountain Farms Mine (1/21/01)
	Letter to the Editor: Code Enforcement (1/21/01)

	Renovation on Community Center and Town Offices Begins (10/10/00)
	Rochester Youth Commission Seeks Nominations (10/10/00)
	Stone Ridge Historic House Tour to be Held October 14 (10/10/00)
	Rochester Cable TV Franchise Hearing (10/10/00)
	Princess Diana Lenska Theatre Opens (10/10/00)
	Funds Received for Historic Museum (10/10/00)
	Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Adopts New Financial Reporting Requirements (10/10/00)
	Hunting Season Dates (9/7/00)
	Tara Equine Center Changes Hands (10/10/00)
	Tip to Toe Opens in Accord (10/10/00)
	Dave's Auto Care Opens (10/10/00)
	Dr. Holly Elliott Establishes Practice (10/10/00)

	Environmental Notice Bulletin (6/21/00)
	Legal Notices (6/21/00)
	Voters Approve Revised School District Budget 6/22/00)
	Citizens Accord to Appeal Racetrack Suit Dismissal (6/22/00)
	Swimming at Minnewaska (6/21/00)
	Harassment Investigation (6/15/00)
	Zoning Lawsuit Update (6/15/00)
	Route 209 Closed Due to Flooding (6/15/00)
	Rondout Valley Central School District Budget Vote II (6/5/2000)
	Saunderskill Farm - Bicentennial Farm Award (6/5/2000)
	New Roof for Town Hall (6/5/2000)
	Harrassment Complaint Filed Against Town Employee (6/5/2000)
	New Area Code for Hudson Valley and Catskill Region (6/5/2000)
	Dept. of Environmental Conservation Announces Draft Visual Impact Guidelines (6/5/2000)
	Self Storage Facility Plans Approved for Route 209 (6/5/2000)

	Meet the Candidates Night to be Scheduled The Blue Stone Press and the Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a Meet the Candidates Night. Candidates for the offices of Town Supervisor, Town Council, Town Clerk, Highway Superintendent, and Town Justice are expected to be present.
	Rochester Residents Association, Inc. Announces Membership Drive (10/13/01) The Rochester Residents Association, Inc. is initiating a new membership drive by mailing a complementary copy of its first quarterly newsletter to every property owner in the Town of Rochester. The 3,500 piece mailing will begin to arrive in resident's mailboxes within a week. The Newsletter includes information on the current demographics of the town, land use and assessment information and contains a two-page survey for residents to provide their input on what they believe our community should focus on. Many of the survey's questions were based on the last town-wide survey that was conducted in 1969 as part of the process of completing the town's Comprehensive Development Plan. The Rochester Residents Association's goals include providing a forum for community members from all walks of life to provide their opinions on the current state and future of our community. The newsletter is an attempt to bridge the gap between many segments of our population by providing factual and non-biased information so that we can begin to deal with our town's issues in a way that recognizes everyone's point of view. The Rochester Residents Association is a non-partisan, not-for-profit entity established by a handful of citizens to educate and inform residents about issues in the Town of Rochester. The organization was incorporated in October 2000 and is open to residents (both full-time and second homeowners), business persons, and other people who have a stake in the future of the Town of Rochester. Further information can be found on the organization's website, which can be reached through www.accord-kerhonkson.com.
	Three Seek Vacant Seat on Rondout Valley School Board (10/13/01) Rondout Valley school board members will hear on October 16, 2001 from three district residents who have applied to fill the vacancy created when Lucy Ann Sciarrino resigned last month; the term expires in May 2002. The three candidates are: Paul Gruner, Marijane Knudsen-Hunlock and Richard Lanzarone. Gruner, 55, of U.S. Route 209, Stone Ridge, is an attorney and the Ulster County public defender. "I have three children in the high school, and I'm concerned about them ... and everybody's education,. I'd like to be part of a school board that's responsible to the students and responsive to the taxpayers." A 28-year district resident, Gruner served on a budget advisory committee amid a district austerity budget in the early 1990s. Knudsen-Hunlock, 46, of Alligerville Road, High Falls, is a Rondout Valley graduate who works for the Ulster County Department of Social Services. She also chairs the town of Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals and the town's Republican Committee. "I have no children, so other than being a taxpayer, I have no vested interest. You have to be able to look at both sides." Lanzarone, 50, of 146 Bone Hollow Road, Accord, is administrative director at Kingston Hospital. "I'm a taxpayer, a homeowner and have a 15-year-old in the district. I feel I have a lot to offer since my expertise is directly applicable to school administration." (Freeman 10/11/01)

	Money Missing From Town Funds (9/30/01) In a written report submitted at the Town Board meeting on September 27 by Councilman Tony Spano reported the findings of his investigation of a report in August 2001 of $6,000 missing from town funds (and reported by a town employee) related to the transfer station and managed by Town Clerk Veronica Sommer. Spano had previously requested and received permission to investigate the matter from Supervisor Harold Lipton. As a result of his investigation, Spano reported that: (a) transfer station scales had not been calibrated, (b) the town did not maintain independent weight records to reconcile against billings from the Resource Recovery Agency, (c) town residents have been systematically overcharged, (d) there was no record-keeping of funds collected, and (e) the town clerk failed to maintain daily cash reconciliations. Spano's report indicated that it was impossible to determine the extent of missing funds or the period over which such funds may have gone missing, if any, due to non-existent or deficient record keeping. Supervisor Lipton said that Spano's report would be taken under advisement. While the town clerk has daily responsibility over cash receipts, the town supervisor is the town's chief fiscal officer.
	State audit faults Rochester's fiscal records (9/30/01) By Dawn Letus, Freeman staff September 21, 2001 ACCORD - A state audit has found the town of Rochester's accounting records for the 2000 fiscal year were incomplete. The report by the state Comptroller's Office, outlining the results of an audit of the town's financial records over the past two years, found that general journals, general ledgers and revenue and expenditure ledgers had not been posted, and that the town failed to maintain general ledgers for fixed assets and long-term debt accounts. Auditors also found cash receipts journals had not been posted for the period of Sept. 1, 2000 through Dec. 31, 2000 and cash receipt and cash disbursement journals were not maintained for the town's capital projects fund. The Comptroller's Office recommended town Supervisor Harold Lipton maintain complete accounting records on a current basis. "Accountability over financial resources is greatly diminished when accounting records are not up to date," the report said. For his part, Lipton said he could not account for the part of the audit that covered the town's books in , since he was not yet in office at that time. He said the biggest problem with maintaining last year's books was a computer failure that caused the town to lose a large portion of its data. The report said that a 1999 annual financial report, due to be filed with the state comptroller's office early in 2000, was not filed until June 26 of that year, which is when Lipton said he hired an accounting firm to review the records. "We had to do the abstracts manually," he said. "We hired In-House Accounting of Hurley to track down every check, bank statement, everything. They didn't find any fallacies. As a matter of fact, we called for this audit to be done, because of the inaccuracies with the computers." Lipton said cash receipt books have been distributed to the various agencies within the town, addressing and correcting part of the audit's findings. The town has 90 days to respond to the comptroller's office. At that time, Lipton said, he would let officials know how the town plans to correct the problems. Lipton said he would discuss the report with Town Board members at a meeting today to interview candidates to fill two open seats on the town Planning Board. ©Daily Freeman 2001 (9/21/01)
	Audit Report Summary (9/30/01) The audit covered the period January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2000 and was conducted in accordance with General Municpal Law to determine compliance with the New York State Laws on Town Government and the execution of responsibilities. The town has 90 days from the date of the report (September 7, 2001) to respond with a plan to initiate corrective action. The audit was conducted March-April 2001 and the report was filed on September 7, 2001 Accounting Record Deficiencies: · General journals, general ledgers, and revenue and expenditure ledgers had not been posted. · Genral ledgers were not maintained for the general fixed assets and general long-term debt accounts groups. · Cash receipts journals had not been posted for the period 9/1/2000 through December 31, 2000. · Cash receipt and cash disbursement journals were not maintained for the capital projects fund. ":it is the duty of the town supervisor to maintain a complete and accurate account of receipts and disbursements of town funds." A similar finding appeared in [the] prior [three] Reports of Examination [dating to 1989]. Fixed Assets · The town's control over its general fixed assets could be improved. · There were inadequacies in the records and procedures used to account for general fixed assets that consist of land, buildings, and equipment. · The town does not maintain general ledger accounts for the general fixed assets account group. · The net fixed asset inventory records had not been updated since 1997, however, these records were in the process of being updated. "..these records help fix responsibility for the control and custody of municipal property and help provide assurance that such property is properly safeguarded." A similar finding appeared in our prior [three] Report[s] of Examination [dating to 1989].

	Voter Registration Deadline (9/30/01) The last day to post mark your mailed voter registration form is Friday, October 12th. You can obtain a registration form at the Post Office, by calling the Board of Elections at 845-334-5470 or visiting www.co.ulster.ny.us.elections The deadline for postmarking an absentee ballot application is October 30. You can obtain an absentee ballot application by calling the Board of Elections, or on-line at the same website listed above.
	Lapp Log Yard Hearing Continuation (9/30/01) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Rochester will hold a continuation of public hearing at 7:00 P.M. on the 9th day of October 2001, at the Town Hall, located at 50 Scenic Rd., Accord, NY, on Application by Robert Lapp for Use Variance for log concentration yard to include firewood and mulch processing on property located at 325 Kyserike Road, High Falls, NY, on Tax Map #69.004-02-23 and in an R-1 District of the Zoning Map. The above noted application and map are open for inspection at the offices of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Clerk, Accord, NY. Persons wishing to appear at such hearing may do so in person or by attorney or other representative. The applicant must be present or represented at the hearing. (Freeman 9/28/01)
	Musical Petting Zoo Arrives at the Little Ones' Library (9/30/01) The Musical Petting Zoo, a menagerie of instruments in all shapes and sizes, arrives at the Little Ones' Library on Saturday, October 20th from 10 am to 12 noon. Mr. Larry Balestra, performer, music educator and the Rondout Valley High School Band Director and his assistants will provide musical fun for children young and old. Youngsters will hear, see and have an opportunity to try out real musical instruments that they have heard about in stories, seen in parades or concerts and heard on tapes. Making music is a joyous experience! The Musical Petting Zoo at the Little Ones' Library promises to be a morning filled with stories, music and movement, and hands-on experiences with musical instruments most young children seldom have the opportunity to explore. The Little Ones' Library, located at the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Rte. 209, Accord serves children from birth to age 6. Established by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, with help from other community partners, it provides library experiences for children in the rural Accord/Kerhonkson area. For more information about Library hours, storytimes and activities, please contact Marie Ulmer at 626-4112 or Sue Matson at 340-3990.
	School District Request for Bids (9/30/01) NOTICE TO BIDDERS BIDS FOR 2001-2002 TRANSPORTATION The Board of Education of the Rondout Valley Central School District at Accord, County of Ulster, Accord, New York 12404, (in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law) hereby invites the submission of sealed bids on: TRANSPORTATION OF PUPILS for the 2001-2002 School Year SPECIAL EDUCATION Bids will be received until 2:00 PM on the 1st day of October at the District Office, 122 Kyserike Rd., Accord, New York 12404, at which time and place all bids will be opened publicly. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at the same office between 8:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Bids specifications will be available on September 24th. The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any formalities in or to reject or to accept any or all bids. No bidder may withdraw his bid within sixty (60) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. BOARD OF EDUCATION RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Dennis T. Geisler Asst. Supt for Finance 9/25/01
	Audit Report - Legal Notice (9/30/01) STATE OF NEW YORK OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Fiscal Affairs of the Town of Rochester for the period beginning on January 1, 1999 and ending on December 31, 2000 have been examined by the Office of the State Comptroller and that the Report of Examination performed by the Office of the State Comptroller has been filed in my office where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons, pursuant to Section Thirty-Five of the General Municipal Law, the Governing Board of the Town of Rochester may in its discretion, prepare a written response to the report of examination performed by the Office of the State Comptroller and file any such response in my office as a public record for inspection by all interested persons not later than December 20, 2001. HAROLD LIPTON SUPERVISOR (Freeman 9/20/01)

	Republicans and Conservatives Select Town Government Nominees (9/19/01) At a caucus held on September 5, 2001, the Town of Rochester Republicans nominated the following candididates: Supervisor: Harold Lipton; Town Clerk: Veronica Sommer; Highway Superintendent Wayne Kelder; Town Council: Randall S. Hoornbeek, Thomas Ryan. These candidates were also nominated at the Town of Rochester Conservative caucus held on September 6.
	Town Democrats Select Candidates (9/19/01) At a caucus held on September 16, 2001, the Town of Rochester Democrats nominated the following candicates: Supervisor: Richard Seigel (other nominees: Steven Fornal) ; Highway Superintendant: Wayne Kelder; Town Board: Brinton Baker, Anthony Spano. Richard Seigal has owned and operated Pot Luck Studios on Main Street since 1995, prior to starting this business, he was an advertising executive. This is his first run for public office. Brinton "Brit" Baker owns and operates the Stone Window Gallery on Main Street and has been active in the Town's Youth Commission, the Kerhonkson/Accord Chamber of Commerce and was a principal in establishing the annual Accord street fair. Anthony "Tony" Spano has served on the Town Council since he was selected in a special election in November 2000. He has been active in the Town's Youth Commission and was instrumental in renovating the former Agway building into the Town's Community Center.
	Local Business Persons Harassed (9/19/01) In the aftermath of the attack on the World Trade Center and Pentagon on September 11, 2001, there have been instances of harassment of local business owners of Asian descent by local residents. In response to these acts of unwarranted discrimination, the following statement was read at the Democratic Caucus by former Democratic Chair Mary Mendola on September 16, 2001: "Right here in the Town of Rochester, we have Indian and Pakistani neighbors. The are taxpayers just like us. They have businesses and families and homes here - just like us. As individuals, they are not directly responsible for Tuesday's events, just as we, average Americans, are not directly responsible for the atrocities against the peoples of the worldwide community of which our country is accused. "In our little town of Rochester, in Accord and Kerhonkson, we need to send out a message: it is totally unacceptable here to harass or intimidate these people - our neighbors - in any way. If anything, they are as frightened as we are by recent events. They should be treated with the respect and compassion with which we wish to be treated. Anti-Indian, anti-Pakistani, and anti-anyone-with-dark-skin events are being reported throughout the country - as close as Kingston, New York. Let's together diffuse this bomb that could explode here in our own backyard, right along Route 209 from Stone Ridge to Kerhonkson. We can't be responsible for what is happening throughout the country or the country. Let's be decent and responsible about what happens here in the town of Rochester." After the statement was read, town resident Stan Breite suggested that incumbent Town Councilman Tony Spano introduce a resolution condemning discrimination in our town at the next Town Board meeting.
	Farm Produce Donations Sought for New York City Relief Workers (9/19/01) Farm Bureau of Orange and Ulster Counties, New York State Farm Bureau, Orange County Vegetable Growers Association and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster and Orange Counties are coordinating with City Harvest and the American Red Cross for an agricultural product donation drive for New York City. Products needed are fruits and vegetables. Donations will be used in the next few weeks to feed emergency and relief workers at the World Trade Center disaster site. City Harvest a non-profit organization that supplies food kitchens and pantries in New York City with surplus food from restaurants and institutions will coordinate the distribution of food to those restaurants preparing food for workers. Local fruit and vegetable growers who would like to donate food items, transportation of the items to the New York City area or volunteer as a drop-off collection site should contact Maire Ullrich at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orange County at 344-1234 or Teresa Rusinek at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County at 340-3990. Messages may also be left at 341-9425. Media inquires please contact Lisa Moriello Pagano, Marketing and Public Relations Director, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, 340-3990 or Chris Pawelski at 845-258-4202.
	Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy Event (9/19/01) The Rondout Esopus Land Conservancy will hold a tour of the Feather Farm Grist Mill and a silent auction on Saturday, September 29 at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Built in 1760, the working grist mill, powered by Overshoot Water Wheel water from the Kripplebush Kill sits on 350 acres of its original site. The farm was purchased by the Hansen family in the 1920s. Directions: Route 209 to Old Kings Hwy in Stone Ridge, go downhill and bear left onto Rest Plaus Rd. Go approximately 1/3 mile to #66. The cost of the event is $10.00 per person, 12 & under free.

	CRAFT FAIR-Draft Horse Festival, Sept. 22 & 23, Kelder's Farm, Rt. 209, Kerhonkson. 845-626-7137. (9/7/01)
	Find Out About 4-H: Open House Welcomes Newcomers (9/19/01) Looking to get into 4-H? Want to find out more about the kind of fun and friendship, opportunities and experiences that kids age 8 to 18 have by joining a 4-H club? From photography and fine art to gardening, clothing design, teen leadership, cooking and pets of all sizes, 4-H is more than you can imagine! To help you learn more, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County 4-H Youth Development Program will hold three separate Open House nights on Wednesday, September 12th, Monday, September 17th and Tuesday, September 18th at their office on 10 Westbrook Lane in Kingston at 7:30 pm. Find out about the kinds of things kids do and learn, the benefits of becoming a volunteer leader and how 4-H clubs value and nurture young people as they are and for what they will become. For more information about 4-H clubs, volunteer leader training or 4-H Open House, please call L. Annah Abbott, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator at 340-3990.
	Notice from Kerhonkson Lions Club (9/19/01) The Kerhonkson Lions are starting their 54th year of service to the community. Dan Gelles, is leading the group for the third year in sucession. He is supported by Marge Carroll as 1st VP and Rhoda Lane as 2nd VP. John Motzer is Secretary again for the 10th time and Richard Terwilliger has been managing our finances for over 20 years. Lions Jack Macauley, Ed Lamon and Carlton Schoonmaker are the boards directors. As with most service organizations our membership is dwindling. We and the community need some more workers. Lion Arnie Gottesman is our sight and hearing chairman, and as with all the members is constantly working to help those in need. We are a support group, helping the children, seniors and anyone who can not get the necessary sight and hearing benefits that they require for daily living. We work closely with the schools, senior groups and service organizations to provide basic visual and audio needs. If we can not directly contribute to these needs we find organizations that can help. We are here to help. "WE SERVE". If you know of someone in need, call John C. Motzer Sr. at 626-7536 and I will put you in contact with one of our supporters. If you think you would like to join Lionism, give me a call. We meet, at the Log Cabin, the second and forth Thursdays of each month. Drop in for a visit. We also get nvolved with other community projects such as the rail trail and revitalization of the Hamlet of Kerhonkson. GIVE US A CALL! With the support of the community, we can keep serving.
	Granit Hotel Employee Reunion (9/19/01) There will be a reunion of former Granit Hotel employees on Sunday, September 16, 2001, from 4pm until 8pm, at the Ukrainian National Estate Resort on Foordmore Road, Kerhonkson. Please call Evelyn Dutka for details: 626-3155
	RONDOUT VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT TAX NOTICE (9/19/01) Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has received the 2001-2002 school tax assessment roll together with the warrant for the collection of school taxes in the Rondout Valley Central School District, Accord, New York. Taxes will be collected from September 4, 2001 through November 5, 2001. Taxes for the Towns of Marbletown, Rochester, Rosendale and Wawarsing will be received at Rondout Valley Central School District Office, 122 Kyserike Road, or mailed to P.O. Box 9, Accord, N.Y. 12404. IF paid by Escrow Account forward to your bank at once. Payments made from October 4, 2001 through November 5, 2001 must include an interest penalty as printed on the face of the bill. Taxes unpaid after November 5, will be re-levied by the County Treasurer along with penalties and added to the county tax bill in January. NOTICE: YOUR CANCELLED CHECK IS YOUR RECEIPT. Make checks payable to: Tax Collector Genevieve Tessey- manor Rondout Valley Central School P.O. Box 9 Accord, N.Y. 12404 Tax Collector Rondout Valley Central School District Accord, N.Y. 12404 (Freeman 8/31/01)
	Town Democratic Caucus Notice (9/19/01) LEGAL NOTICE The Town of Rochester Democratic Committee will hold its nominating Caucus Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 1:00 p.m. at the fire house on Main Street in Accord. Candidates will be nominated for Supervisor, Highway Superintendent, Town Council, Town Clerk, and Town Justice. Kingston Freeman (9/5/01)