Space to learn outdoors

WURTSBORO, NY — The Emma C. Chase Elementary School recently held a dedication ceremony for its new outdoor classroom, a project led by Eagle Scout David Cooper.
David is currently a senior at Monticello High School, and is an alum of the Chase School. He worked with his troop (Troop 92) to design and construct the classroom—six large tables, benches and a podium on a soft mulch bed, under the shade of a large tree in the school’s back field.
The materials for the project were funded through a Sullivan 180 Healthier Generation grant. Healthier Generation is focused on improving health and wellness in the youth of Sullivan County. Cortney Larson, Healthier Generation coordinator for Sullivan 180, and Meaghan Mullally-Gorr, director of health and wellness for Sullivan 180, attended the ceremony.
Troop 92, the Wurtsboro community and social and emotional wellness facilitator MaryAnn Swensen all played an integral role in bringing the project to fruition, a press release from the school district stated.
“There were many hours and hard work that went into this project,” Emma Chase principal William Frandino said, in an address to the student body. “It was a great example of cooperation and communication, and we thank everyone who was involved.”

Give blood or platelets this fall

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — The American Red Cross will hold various blood-donation opportunities in the next few weeks.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood-donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification, are required at check-in. People who are at least 17 years of age, who weigh at least 110 pounds, and who are in generally good health could be eligible to donate blood.
You can book a time to give blood or platelets by using the Red Cross blood donor app, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 800/733-2767.
Donate blood here:
Thursday, September 29, Grahamsville—10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grahamsville Fire Department, 205 Main St.
Thursday, September 29, Loch Sheldrake—10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Sullivan County Community College, 1000 Leroy Rd.
Tuesday, October 4, Liberty—1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Liberty Community First Presbyterian Church, 81 South Main St.
Wednesday, October 12, Wurtsboro—1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Wurtsboro Fire Department, 54 Pine St.
Friday, October 14, Monticello—1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center, 10 Jefferson St.
Saturday, October 15, Fremont Center—10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hankins-Fremont Center Fire Department, 20 Newman Hill Rd.

Make a difference in a child’s life

MILFORD, PA ― “Being a resource parent is a very rewarding experience,” said Carla Brown, resource parent coordinator. “Resource parents have the opportunity to make a real difference in a child’s life, at a time when they truly need it.”
Due to the increasing need, Pike County Children and Youth Services (C&Y) is seeking people to serve as resource parents, also known as foster parents.
Resource parenting gives a family-life experience in an approved household to children who temporarily cannot remain in their homes. The basic purpose of a resource parent is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for the child.
“I am glad that I decided to participate in this service, and I encourage others to do the same,” said one local resource parent. “Knowing that I have been able to make a positive impact on my resource child’s life is priceless.”
To become a resource parent, you must be at least 21 years of age, be a U.S. citizen and obtain clearances in criminal history and for child abuse, and be cleared by the FBI. You must pass a physical exam, be free from communicable diseases, and be able to handle stress.
Resource parents should be successful in managing their own family life and finances, be patient and understanding of the needs of children of all ages.
Resource parents will receive training and support from C&Y staff throughout the placement, and will receive a daily stipend.
To learn more, call Brown at 570/296-3446.