Here & There Column

 Produce Movies With Accuracy

  Famous radio commentator Paul Harvey years ago would end his broadcast with the words, "and now you know the rest of the story."
  While remembering those words today and reviewing the recent movie "Noah" I  believe that Paul would have strongly corrected the producers of this movie saying that the movie horribly distorted the views of one of the Bible's great heroes of faith.
    The movie has a big-name director, popular leading actors and lot of drama  to draw viewers into the theaters.
  Probably from the directors viewpoint they hoped this film would become a Hollywood hit but reviews have been highly negative in terms of biblical accuracy.
  The movie producers have grossly distorted biblical accuracy with Gnostic and other arcane elements and made the film into a huge Hollywood melodrama.
  Noah in the movie is portrayed as an angry, tormeneted and murderous man, in complete contradiction of the Bible's description of him as a righteous and godly person.
  The film producers added many fictional parts especially the many scenes with mythical rock creations (supposedly fallen angels) who actually built the ark with wood from a miraculously grown instant forest.
  Regrettably the movie doesn't mention at all that Noah had an intimate and lifetime relationship with God but the movie attempts to indicate that Noah had vague clues about what the Creator wants.
  As Paul Harvey would say, "if you want to know the rest of the story," we offer reality with the Biblical verse from Genesis 6:19 which says that "Noah walked with God," and "walking with God" means having a daily, lifelong relationship with God, obeying His commandments and following His way of life.
  If Hollywood is going to produce good  movies then do so with accuracy.

Tuxedo Eliminates Tri-Valley 10-3

Tuxedo--An experienced Tuxedo Tornados girls varsity softball team played  flawless defense along with timely hitting in eliminating the Tri-Valley Lady Bears 10-3 in a Section 9 Class C quarterfinal game played Tuesday.
  Tuxedo entered this game as the No. 4 seed while Tri-Valley was the No. 5 seed.
  This was the Bears first time making the sectionals since 2007 and their first winning record since 2005.
  Following two scoreless innings by both teams Tri-Valley got on the scoreboard first with one run in the top of the third off a single to left field by Mikayla Clearwater who promptly stole second and took third base on a ground ball out by Robyn Dymond. Angie DiToro then singled to center scoring Clearwater.
  Tuxedo took a 4-1 lead in the bottom of the third on a walk to Kerri Burton, a fly ball single to right field by Danielle McNamara, a ground ball to short that Maddy Doyle beat out, Alison Toscano then beat out a throw from third, Jess Bach hit a fly ball to right which was dropped and a run also scored on a passed ball.
  The four runs were all Tuxedo needed for the win but they put the game away with three more runs in the bottom of the fifth and three additional runs in the bottom of the sixth.
  The Bears added single run innings in the top of the fourth and the top of the seventh.
  The single run in the fourth was on walks to Ashley Exner, Liz Hannold, Megan Bantin and Clearwater.
  Winning pitcher Alison Toscano pitched a five hitter and went 2-for-4 at the plate with a double and four RBI's.
  Tuxedo's Cierra Malone went 3-for-4 and scoredd three runs while Danielle McNamara went 3-for-3 and scored two runs.
  Tri-Valley's Mikayla Clearwater went 1-for-2 with one RBI and scored two runs. Angie DiToro had two hits and drove in one run.
  Tri-Valley ends the season with a 11-8 record while Tuxedo upped  their record to
  12-5 and advanced to play No. 1 seed S.S. Seward yesterday at Florida.
  Tuxedo coach Michelle Hines gave high praise for her  pitcher Alison Toscano and added "my middle infield had some real nice plays and my center fielder had a couple of real nice catches."
  Hines noted the young ball players on the Tri-Valley team noting "they are going to be very good contenders in the next couple of years."
  Tri-Valley coach Mary Feusner who has been the Lady Bears head coach since 1980 in her analysis of this game said, "we were on base quite a bit but just couldn't get  those runs in."
  She added "we missed opportunities to get some runs and we had some untimely errors.
  Feusner acknowledged that she is retiring this year from teaching which could also result in the end of her 37 years of coaching. She firmly stated when asked what she would be doing next year " I sincerely hope to be coaching, I really want to be coaching this crew, I'm very proud of them, I like them, they are coach-able, their good kids, I don't want to leave them and I will apply for the position but that is out of my hands for hiring and I don't know what they (the school board) will do."
  Feusner has coached a total of 624 games and prior to being named head coach in 1980 she was the assistant coach under Fred Booker in 1978 and 1979.
  Her best season was in 1986 when Tri-Valley won the Class D state championship in Binghamton against Tuckahoe and Afton and won the championship game in the bottom of the seventh.
  Tonya Ackerley Martin was the winning pitcher  and Heidi Blade Hewlett was the Bears catcher.
  The Lady Bears present youth movement will now add depth to the 2015 team that presently consists of three eighth graders, one ninth grader and four sophomores which many opposing coaches and Tri-Valley spectators projecting will bring softball success in the next couple of years to Tri-Valley.

 PHOTOS FROM SECTIONAL G AME PLAYED TUESDAY





                                                      

                                                             

                                                                                

                                                                                 

                                                                                 
                                                                                

                                                                             

                                                                                

                                                                          
                                                                             

                                                                         
                                                                          

                                                                      

                                                                               

                                                                                
                                                                             

Golfing Highlights Column

Remembering The Old Big G

                                                            

The Turnesa Brothers, Jim, Joe and Mike  

 

In singing Mary Hopkin's lyrics in the song "Those Were The Days, My Friend We Thought They'd Never End" brings back great memories of my early teens  as a caddie at Grossinger's Golf Course when it was often referred to as The Big G.
  I always loved golf courses and did some caddying before going to Grossinger's at both the Sullivan County Golf & Country Club in Liberty and the Youngs Gap Hotel located on old Route 17 near Parksville.
  My brother-in-law was going to college and did caddying at the Big G and I have to credit him for introducing me to  Caddy Master Frank Kerns.
  In those days there were no golf carts and the caddy carried the golf bags and if he knew the game and the course he could club (giving the golfer the correct club for playing that shot) and you always had to be alert as to where the shot went.
  I remember well what my brother-in-law taught me about taking care of the caddy master at the end of each week and by that I mean making sure I gave him a good $20 tip which always assured me of caddying for good golfers who gave big tips after 18-holes of golf and  that was both in the morning and afternoon.
  Got to meet several professional caddies at Grossingers, these men worked Grossingers in the summer and Florida resorts in the winter but many of them were heavy drinkers and gamblers.
  Will never forget one professional caddy named "Irish" who arrived each morning in his expensive sharp looking Cadillac, wore top of the line golf slacks, shirts, sweaters and golf shoes, did not drink, smoke or gamble and was a pure gentleman who of course got what we called the best rounds of golfers and made an exceptionally good income which I can attest to when I say him put a $50 bill in the church collection box.
  It was interesting work for a high school or college student and if you were good at what you were doing it provided an above average income and always gave you the opportunity to play golf for free when the course was available.
  The Professional Golfer and instructor at Grossinger's when I caddied there was Joe Turnesa, one of seven famous golfing brothers who turned professional in 1925 and who had 18 professional wins, 14 on the PGA Tour and ended up second in the U.S. Open in 1926 and second in the PGA Championship in 1927.
  Joe was a great guy to be around and I frequently caddied for him in special events at the Big G.....also enjoyed caddying for entertainers like Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin and baseball greats like Jackie Robinson.
  The antics that went on when caddying in a foursome with Lewis and Martin were something that I could write a book about.
  Of course at that time the golf course only consisted of the front nine and the back nine which is now called the Vista and much redesigning has taken place since the late 40's and early 50's with the addition of another nine holes of golf.
  Great memories of "Those Were The Days."

Ed's Outlook

  Recovery from injuries or surgery presents various scenarios particularly from top named golfers and such is the case with Tiger Woods.
  Woods turns 39 in December and he has been out of action for almost two months now and there are strong indications he will be missing the U.S. Open.....which will be his sixth major missed due to injury since turning pro....and the British Open looks none too promising either.
  Indications from Wood are that the recovery from back surgery is going well but that the process is "slow."
  There should be no rush to his recovery process and he should take his time even if he is fully cleared and hitting shots it will take him some time to be competitive after so much time off.
  The cautious approach is  not really Wood's nature, but for his future it may well be the prudent path.

  Ed Townsend, a PR Consultant to the sport of Golf, writes and compiles the information for this column. If you have league information, standings or tournament information, shoot a hole-in-one or even shoot your age, call Ed at 845-439-8177, 845-866-0333, email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com, or fax at 845-205-4474. View this column at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook and Twitter.

Golf Tip
By Robert Menges

  A good practice routine is important to your game and with this tip we hope to provide you with information on how to practice efficiently.
  If you want to improve your game, it is important to set some goals for the season and map out a practice schedule.
  You must first realize there are different areas of the game where you can focus on becoming a better player.
  Most golfers consider hitting a bucket of balls before their round as practice.
  Obviously, you want to work on your full swing, but you need to look at what is considered the scoring area of the game......the short game.
  Putting, chipping, pitching and bunker shots are just as important as a 300-yard drive. Most golfers ignore this part of the game when they practice. I feel you should spend at least twice the amount of time practicing your short game as you do your full swing.
  Try to put aside a minimum of one hour a week to devote to your short game practice. If you have a chance to go to the range after work you can spend a half hour on the range working on your full swing, and then take another night and spend one hour on the practice green working on your short game.
  I bet you will find if you improve your short game you will see an improvement in your overall score. Also it is a good idea to make an appointment for a lesson with your local Golf Professional.
  Robert Menges is the head golf professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club on Mt. Hope Road in Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if  you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 845-292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net 

Putting Tip
By Joe Bermel Jr.

  Get your mind into "The Library."
  When putting, for the entire Pre-Putt Routine (PPR), get your mind into "The Library" and keep it there for the entire round.
  Remember, in "The Library", it is calm, peaceful, quiet and serene all the time.
  Nothing bothers you in "The Library" and this is where you accelerate on the forward stroke and finish the putting stroke with a delicate paint brush stroke.
  If golfers want to score well...they must learn to putt well.
  Joe is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organizations and golf shows/tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well" and his Putting Tip Of The Month Calendar are available by calling 631-589-1384, at his Web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com



 
 



  














 

Here & There Column

A Family Graduation

                                                              

     The month of May is traditionally the beginning of summer and it brings us important events in our lives like Memorial Day and of course college and university graduations.
   Memories are an important thing in life and remembrances of both those who served this great nation of ours and of the hard work put in by graduates to achieve and advance their future are perhaps the most precious of all this time of year.
   College and university graduations often include mothers and a daughter or son but several weeks ago a family with Roscoe NY roots included a mom and her two children graduating college within a weeks time.
   The three new college graduates include mom Patricia Trask-Huggins, daughter Amanda Huggins, 22, and Jesse Huggins 20.
   Patricia, a high school graduate from Jeffersonvillle-Youngsville Central School, graduated from SUNY Oswego on May 17 with a MSED (Masters) in Career & Technical Education. She is employed at Orange-Ulster BOCES in Goshen as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator and also at Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris as an Administrative Director of Nursing.
   Amanda, a Roscoe Central School graduate, graduated from SUNY Oswego witih a BA in English on May 17. She has been accepted into the Master's Program at SUNY Oswego and works at Orange-Ulster BOCES as a substitute teach and at Mr. Willy's as a waitress.
  Jesse, also a Roscoe Central School graduate, graduated from SUNY Canton on May 10 with an A.A.S. in Automotive Technology. He has applied to the Florida Gulf Coast University in their Professional Golf Association (PGA) Golf Management program.
  Proud Roscoe parents and grandparents are Thomas and Barbara Trask.

    
 

Golfing Highlights Column

Trump & The Claret Jug   

                                                                   

                                                                  

  Say  what you will about Donald Trump, but the m an loves golf and he has made a significant investment in the game at a time when there has been far more retracting than expanding.
  Trump is now the owner of Turnberry located on South Ayrshire coast of Scotland and the purchase includes two golf courses, a golf academy and hotel and lodge accommodations.
  This becomes the 17th golf property owned by Trump, including 12 in the United States.
  Considered one of the finest links in Scotland this picturesque links course has hosted the British Open four times and was used as an airfield during World War II.
  Those who have played this gem say it has magnificent views of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Arran and the Ailsa Craig, a founded rock formation in the Irish Sea.
  Although it is always reported that terms of buys like were not made available The Independent in London reported that the real estate mogal paid 37.5 pounds or just over $63 million.
  The British Open is all but certain to return to Turnberry in the coming years and pretty soon we will no doubt see the Donald in all his glory presiding over one of the game's storied tournaments and golf's oldest trophy--the claret jug.

  Ed's Outlook

  Be sure to add to your golf tournament schedule the Liberty Skatepark Fundraising Tournament to be held Saturday, May 31 with tee times scheduled for 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Sullivan County Golf & Country Club in Liberty.
  Entry fee is $75 and includes dinner at Cracolici's on the Green. Dinner may be purchased separately for $25.
  Funds from the tournament will help support the Liberty Skatepark.
  Advanced reservations are preferred. Contact Tim Gozza at 845-807-9677 or Sal Cracolici at 845-747-4337.
  I met Guy W. Trogani at the North  Coast New Jersey golf show in January where he was demonstrating a new golf aid called the Grip Buddy.
  Trogani pointed out that the Grip Buddy is "a great tool for every golfer....of any age with any ailment that needs grip support."
  The Grip Buddy is also designed for beginner golfers who need to maintain proper placement of the golf club in their hands and learn the correct method of gripping the golf club.
  Trigani told golfers observing his demonstration that the "Grip Buddy is a great tool for any golfer suffering from grip-related issues and would like the golf club to remain securely in its proper position throughout the swing."
  It's a little difficult to describe but Trigani asked golfers to place the handle (top of the grip) in your weak hand, grab the shaft where it meets the grip and hold the club out in front of you at a 45-degree angle......then turn your dominant palm toward you and then set the grip in the area bet ween your first knuckles and the top of your palm.
  This new revolutionary golf tool is a simple and effective golf training tool.
  Interested golfers should contact Trogani at 973-715-3027 or at gripbuddy@gmail.com

  Ed Townsend, a PR consultant to the sport of golf, writes and compiles the information for this column. If you have league scores, standings, tournament information, score a hole-in-one or even shoot your age, call Ed at 845-439-8177, email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or fax at 845-305-4474. View this column and all of Ed's photos at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook and Twitter.

  The Golf Tip
  By Robert Menges

  One of the most overlooked aspects in the game of golf is called COURSE MANAGEMENT.
  There are two different components that control the game of golf.....mental and physical.
  Course management falls under the mental side of the game. Golfers of all ability levels can learn to shave strokes off their game by thinking.
  Even the greatest golfers in the world hit errant shots once in a while. While some of them make fantastic miracle shots to get out of trouble the smart safe play is forgotten because it does not make the highlight reel.
  I see golfers try to hit shots they are not capable of and it ends up costing them strokes instead of saving them. If you use good course management, sometimes it is better to pitch out to the fairway and then hit to the green.
  When you are playing a par 5 you may want to lay up with your second shot and then try to make a birdie by using a good wedge game.
  If you find yourself in trouble on the course, make sure you go through all your options before you hit your shot. By using good course management you are able to keep a big number off of your scorecard.
  You may feel like you are giving up, but sometimes a smart safe play will save you strokes and improve your score.
  Robert Menges is the head professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club on Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 845-292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net

  The Putting Tip
  By Joe Bermel

  Pre Putt Routine (PPR)
  Always use the Putting Doctor's Pre Putt Routine for every putting stroke, practice and actual game.
  It must be exacting, specific and methodical.
  Every element of the PPR has specific meaning and purpose.
  Paramount, at final address......to look down at the hole, look back to the ball, and, without delay......pull the trigger.
  Joeph Bermel Jr. is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organizations and golf shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well and his Putting Tip Of The Month Calendar are available by calling 631-589-1384, at his web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com

Clearwater Leads Lady Bears

  The drive to win and athleticism used to continually  force  your opponent into making mistakes is being visibly displayed this season by Tri-Valley eighth grade varsity catcher Mikayla Clearwater.
  Clearwater has become an important  part of the  Lady Bears youth movement that is adding depth to the present team that consists of three eighth graders, one ninth grader and four sophomores.
  With losing only three seniors in this years graduation the next couple of years is poised for softball success at Tri-Valley who this year will compete in sectional play for the first time in a number of years.
  Clearwater displayed that leadership role and the desire to win in the top of the seventh inning with the score knotted at six runs each between Eldred and the Lady Bears last Thursday at Eldred.
  Leading off the seventh Mikayla smashed a ground ball to short and with the throw to first sailing over the first baseman's glove the speedy Bears catcher pulled into second base. 
  Emily DiToro then hit a fly ball to right center which was dropped by the right fielder allowing Clearwater to score the winning run. DiToro took second base on the throw home, scrambled to third on a fly ball out  to center field and scored the eighth run for the Bears on a fly ball out to right field. Angie DiToro ended the inning with a ground ball out to Eldred pitcher Jordan Lepes.
  Winning pitcher Kacie Allison ( a ninth grader) sealed the Bears victory setting Eldred down in the bottom of the seventh on a fly ball out to left field, a fly ball out to center and a strikeout.
  Tri-Valley got on the scoreboard in the top of the first with two runs with lead-off hitter Clearwater starting the game off with a sharp single to center, advancing to second and scoring on a single to right center by Emily DiToro. Emily took second and then third base on balls that got away from Eldred's catcher and scored on a third passed ball.
  The Bears added a single run in the top of the second with Morgan Shamro scoring.
  Eldred got right back in the game in the bottom of the second when lead off batter Samantha Banghart blasted a long fly ball to left  field for a home run. Another run scored off singles by Alaina Gaughan, Kelsey Collins and Shela Burns.
  The Yellow Jackets produced a three run inning in the bottom of the third off Tri-Valley errors and a hit batter to take a 5-3 lead which was increased to a 6-3 lead at the end of the fourth inning.
  The Lady Bears added one run in the top of the fifth with Clearwater again leading the way with a ground ball to short and her speed beating the throw to first. She promptly stole second, advanced herself to third on a ground ball to short and then stole home for the fourth Tri-Valley run.
  In the top of the sixth the Bears scored two runs to tie the game up  off hits by Angie DiToro, Morgan Shamro, an Eldred error and a passed ball.
  Allison recorded seven strikeouts and Lepes five.
  At the  conclusion of the game Tri-Valley players swept Clearwater up into the arms of first baseman Ashley Exner  in celebration of their comeback win.
  And Mikayla  at the end of the game gets into the car with her father, Assistant Coach Gary Clearwater, to travel down to Chester for practice with her Frozen Ropes travel team.......that's the kind of dedication she has for her sport.
  Bears Coach Mary Feusner gave praise for Eldred saying, "Eldred's always good competition for us and this year we have had games determined by only two or three runs."
  Admitting that her team "got shell shocked by S.S. Seward 23-3 Wednesday but "coming back today puts smiles on their faces and gives us some  confidence again."
  Yellow Jackets coach Ryan Jasper admitted that his team is also young with only two seniors and added, "we have to get more consistent with us checking into the game one inning and checking out the next inning."
  Eldred with a 6-10 overall record and  3-1 in league play will play in the Class D sectionals after wrapping up the league with a win over Livingston Manor earlier in the week.
  With this win Tri-Valley is 11-5 overall and 1-4 in OCIAA division play.
  Both Tri-Valley (Class C) and Eldred will learn on Thursday who their competition in this years opening sectional game will be.

PHOTOS FROM THURSDAY'S GAME VS. ELDRED                                                          

                                                                  

                                                             

                                                               

  
 
   

Golfing Highlights 5-16-14

                                                 Golf, A Room & Breakfast

  Recently talking with Tarry Brae Golf Professional Glenn Sonnenschein and our conversation turned to a discussion on the need for a  full time Sullivan County golf package coordinator who would book all Sullivan County golf courses into a plan that would include golf, a motel or hotel room and breakfast all for one attractive low price.
  Many sections of the country specialize in offering golf packages whereby they arrange every aspect of personalized itineraries for groups looking to play several days or a couple of weeks of golf on different golf courses with motel/hotel accommodations and breakfast.
  We frequently golf in the state of South Carolina where many privately owned golf coordinators offer these golf packages with attractive prices ranging from $72 a day and up and all include 18-holes of golf per day, double occupancy in a motel and buffet breakfast.
  Golfers are always looking for custom golf vacation packages and Sullivan  County offers great golf courses but the need for an overall coordinator that would benefit all courses, motels/hotels and restaurants would benefit the overall economy for a county that needs help.
  Booking golf packages through a third party site with a golf coordinator helps golfers save money and could bring new additional revenue to Sullivan County.

                                                            Ed's Outlook
                                                                

Barefood B.E.R.B.S. CEO Jeremy Berbert displays Golf's first minimalist soft spike golf shoe. 

 

 A new golf shoe made it's appearance at the January North Coast New Jersey Golf Show called Barefoot B.E.R.B.S. and is basically a barefoot style golf shoe with spikes.
  Since wearing them in late March I haven't played in anything else and I can clearly see that the barefoot style shoes have the potential of being game changers.
  In wearing them I actually feel the course and when I'm uncertain of the line or break of a putt, I can verify the green's slope by standing along the line and feeling the slope in my feet.
  Traditional golf shoes have steel shanks in the soles and these new Barefoot B.E.R.B.S. have abandoned the thick, stiff sole in favor of thin, flexible, light-weight soles. These golf shoes also abandoned the soft spikes with a series of strategically placed "nubs" or cleats.
  While speaking with  Barefoot B.E.R.B.S. CEO Jeremy Berbert he pointed out that, "the science behind these new style golf shoes is based on zero drop running technology but this technology applies broadly across the uses of footwear in sports with the basic findings are that when participating in sports, the closer to barefoot you are the better your feet can do the work they are designed to do."
  He added, "barefoot style footwear allows for a more natural gait that strengthens  the intrinsic muscles, tendons and ligaments of the foot, improving balance, coordination and the bodies perception of  movement and spatial orientation."
  His company philosophy is that "everyone is looking for ways to become better so let your feet lead you to better scores. The lightest golf shoe helps you maintain higher energy, the golf swing has many moving parts....being lower to the ground gives the golfer better balance promoting better technique and stability equals better scores."
  It will take you a few rounds of golf to get use to the feel you get from these shoes but the Barefood B.E.R.B.S. add an important aspect to the great game of golf.
  Jeremy and his company can be contacted at 303-794-4000, by email at jmb@barefootberbs.com or at their web site www.barefootberbs.com 

  Ed Townsend, a PR Consultant to the sport of golf, writes and compiles the information for this column. If you have league standings or tournament information, score a hole-in-one or even shoot your age, call Ed at 845-439-8177, email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or fax at 845-205-4474. View this column and all of Ed's pictures at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook and Twitter.

                                                             The Golf Tip
                                                         By Robert Menges

  When the sun doesn't shine and golf courses get wet golfers can still enjoy a tour of the golf course.
  Some advise for playing in the rain is important because playing in the rain is full of distractions. It can become a distinct advantage for players gifted with powers of concentration stronger than their physical abilities.
  Remember to always have your rain suit handy.
  Tips to improve your golf in the rain or wet conditions:
  1. Have your tried Latex gloves? Rubber on rubber doesn't slip. Pulling them out at just the right time can be fun too. I like the yellow-colored ones the best. Naturally, it takes aplomb, but you can do it. The rain gloves made by several manufactures are another option.
  2. Wear your contact lenses if you have them. Raindrops on glasses presents problems.
  3. Bring several towels as they will come in handy for a variety of reasons.
  4. Bring several hats as many golfers can's hack the drips.
  5. Read the casual water rule.
  6. Always dry your ball and your putter before making a stroke.
  7. Remember, shots our of wet sand always go farther.
  8. Bring a baggie for your scorecard.
  Robert Menges is the golf professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 845-292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net

                                                              Putting Tip
                                                         By Joe Bermel

  As a top contender in the World Putting Championship and a Professional putting expert instructing for 28 years one of the tip I always offer is .....finish the putting stroke.
  Think smoooooth, just as if you are painting with a delicate paint brush stroke, steady and smooth thru the ball to about 23 inches past the ball to conclusion of the putt and HOLD the finish.
  After hearing and seeing impact, only then can you allow your eyes to start turning towards the ball as it rolls towards the hole.
  If you want to score well then you must learn to putt well.
  Joseph Bermel Jr. is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organizations and golf shows-tournaments. His special edition DVD "How To Putt Well" and his Putting Tip Of The Month Calendar are available by calling 631-589-1384, at his web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com

Golf CALANDAR

      GOLF CALENDAR   

May 9, Mamakating Lions, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
May 16, Marine Corp GL, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
May 31, FallsburgPBA, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
June 1, Jake Hulse Tournament, Swan Lake G&CC. call Bill Hulse 845-292-0438
June 6, Monticello PBA, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
June 7, Mike Schulte Memorial, Swan Lake G&CC, call Chrlie Schadt 845-482-3205
June 7, TwaiKwen Do, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
June 8, Jeffersonville Lions Club, Swan Lake G&CC, call Doug Immoor 845-482-5094
June 14, Bill Carleson Memorial, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
June 14, David Curreri Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
June 21, Jake Gunther Classic, Tarry Brae, call 845-796-6480.
June 21, St. Peter's of Liberty, SC Golf & CC, call 845-292-9584.
June 22, Roscoe Fire Dept., Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 6, Memorial Tourament & Dinner, Twin Village GC, call 607-498-5829.
July 12, Sull. Co. Republican Party, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 18, Country Store Youth Foundation, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 19, Liberty Elks, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 19, Monticello FD, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
July 20, Par 3 Fun Tournament, Twin Village GC, call 607-498-5829.
July 26, Billy Moran Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 27, Roscoe Kiwanis Club Tournament, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000 or 607-498-9929
Aug. 15, United Way Bob Rosen Memorial, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
Sept. 6, Trevor Simpson Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
Sept. 14, Rock Hill FD, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
Sept. 20, Kathy McMichael Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         


 
 

Cups Comes To Liberty

                                 Cups Makes Its Debut In Upstate NY

                                                                 

  What a delight we found when walking into the new Cups frozen yogurt store in Liberty last week.
  Located in the front section of the recently renovated Burger King Restaurant on Sullivan Avenue this new concept for this area is the first upstate Cups location, with the closest one to us being in Nanuet , Rockland County.
  This  franchise store is owned by Sanjay and Depak Patel who thought of bringing something different to this area. 
  The company slogan is "It's frozen yogurt that's hot," and "it's what in the cup that counts."
  Those we spoke to said their yogurt was delicious and "an experience they will never forget.
  Here's how it works....... you walk into the store, grab your cup,  you have a selection of nine different flavors, go over to the lever for the flavor you want and pull down the lever, you can get a cup divider so that you can get several different flavors in one cup.
  After filling your cup with the flavor of flavors you want there are all types of toppings available including fresh fruit  which management says they cut up daily.
  You then take your yogurt filled cup to the payment counter where you pay .49 cents an ounce....sit back and enjoy.
  Manager James Johnson noted the yogurt machines are cleaned twice a week due to the high bacteria count when dealing with yogurt.
  Johnson pointed out that their yogurt is Kosher and their hours of operation are Sunday-Thursday 10a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday though Sunday open until 11 p.m.
  Very delicious and your choice of toppings just adds to this treat.
 

Golfing Highlights

 New Course Improvements At Twin Village

  Club improvements are taking place this year at the small 9-hole Roscoe Twin Village Golf Club (TVGC) thanks to a completed $188,500 conservation easement offer from the Open Space Institute (OSI).
  OSI protects scenic, natural and historic landscapes to ensure public enjoyment, conserve habitats and to sustain community character and achieves its goals through land acquisition, conservation easements, regional loan programs, fiscal sponsorship, creative partnerships and analytical research.
  In the eastment offer approved by certificate members of the club the agreement states that TVGC would not be able to develop the land or sub-divide and that they would be able to continue as a golf course, ownership would not change, that no fracking would be allowed, the club house building could be expanded up to a toal of 3,000 square feet, additions could be made to the maintenance shop building, a golf cart protection shelter could be added to the course and there would be no restrictions as to what the club does within the club house.
  The $188,000 figure is reduced to approximately $141,000 after paying taxes and the club opted to receive payments over a five-year period of about $32,000 per year.
  Prior to accepting the OSI conservation easement offer TVGC was able to stay out of the red with money received from an annual year-end fund raiser but there never was funds to make needed club improvements including the purchase of equipment or golf course improvement.
  The 29-acre nine-hole 2,045 yard par 32 TVGC this spring has dug a new well which will provide an improved water irrigation system, the club has purchased several newer golf carts, has purchased a newer greens mower, trimmed trees to allow more light for greens No. 6 and 8, is building a new larger tee on hole No. 5 and has added an improved cart path to tee No. 5 with an expanded cart parking area at that tee.
  The TVGC also this year has two new board members with Tasse Niforatos replacing resigned board member Ralph Kirchner and Fred Tucker replacing resigned board member Sally Shea. The board elected Chuck Husson IV as its new vice president.
  The economy, finances and making sure budgets stay in the black have become major management topics among owners and operators of area golf courses and this conservation easement offer from OSI should prove to be a great benefit to the overall upkeep and operations for the TVGC.

                                                  Ed's Outlook

  Communication with golfers has advaced to using both email, Facebook and Twitter and both the Tarry-Brae and Lochmor golf facilities are using email to announce that their courses are open offering a new fleet of golf carts along with lunch specials at both courses.
  I like the one offered at Tarry Brae where they state, "mention this email at our snack bar and get Glenn's Hungry Golfer Email Special...two Kosher all beef hot dogs, french fries and a beer for just $8.99."
  Fallsburg golf memberships along with tournaments are noted in their email.
  The cooler and somewhat rainy weather still is not what area golfers are looking for.......heard a fellow league golfer mention Monday night that he still can't get in the grove with his swing and is hoping for warmer temperatures.
  Reading about some the new golf club and accessories making the scene this year including The Purdy Grip Analyzer with Sports Illustrated Golf.com website rating the Purdy GripAnalyzer as one of the hottest new golf aids around. This devise is said to quickly show golfers where your grip needs correction.
  We are presently trying out a new concept in golf shoes called Barefood B.E.R.B.S. which we will report on in a future column.

  Ed Townsend is a PR consultant to the sport of golf and writes and compiles the information for this column. If you have league information, tournament information, shoot a hole-in-one or even your age, call Ed at 845-439-8177, email at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or fax at 845-205-4474. View this column at http://bght.blogspot.com. We are also on Facebook and Twitter. 

                                                           Golf Tip
                                                    By Robert Menges

  Take A Golf Lesson
  Taking a lesson from a PGA pro is the best way to learn golf.
  Find a pro who has a good reputation working with golfers of your skill level and who takes the time to explain things thoroughly.
  Prepare for your lesson by printing your round statistics and analysis graphs from NetHandicap.com.
  Go over your goals with the pro and ask how you both can work together to accomplish them.
  The purpose of taking a golf lesson is to know when to take a lesson, understand the goals of a lesson, work hard to get the most out of a lesson and remember the best way to make faster progress is to work on improving your physical fitness.
  Robert Menges is the golf professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Mt. Hope Road, Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 845-292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net

                                                       Putting Tip
                                                     By Joe Bermel

  Acceleration on the Forward Stroke.
  Always accelerate on the forward stroke into impact and thru the ball to conclusion of the putt.
  Your putter head will finish about 23 inches past the ball.
  Then hold the finish.
  Think of acceleration as slowly painting a brush  thru the ball smoothly.
  Joe Bermel is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organizations and golf shows-tournaments. His special two DVD's "How To Putt Well" and his new 2014 Golf Tip calendar are available by calling 631-589-1384, at his web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com

New Field Plus a Win

GRAHAMSVILLE-- Couple a win along with  the grand opening ceremony for the new Tri-Valley Central School softball fields complex and you can put it in the books as a great day for Lady Bears softball.
  Speakers at the pre-game ceremony last Friday afternoon included Athletic Director Derek Adams, Superintendent Tom Palmer, Agriculture Education Teacher Robert Hayes and Varsity Softball Coach Mary Feusner.
  Adams listed the people who either helped, assisted or volunteered including designer Mr. Hayes, Grounds Supervisor Jesse Bell, Superintendent Palmer, the school buildings and grounds department, Hayes' sports field management class, conservation class, after school program members, students Andrew Exner, Kyle Henderson and Jared Ratner, Preston Kally and the Town of Neversink volunteer workers, Mr. Pompeii and Mr. Huebsche's construction classes, Howard Osterhout, Pete Furman, Mike DiLorenzo and Jim Sheeley.
  Adams and Superintendent Palmer pointed out that although the new fields value can be estimated at $1 million the fields were actually constructed for 1/10th the cost with approximately $95,000 in materials over the two-plus year period.
  It was pointed out that normally a field like this would cost $500,000 each to construct through a contractor.
  Hayes pointed out, "that better than two years ago we realized there were great needs here, came up with some ideas, collected some good information, did some clinical thinking, formed some partnerships and produced a first class project.....the same thing we ask our students to do in school."
  Hayes noted all the great help provided by the school staff, administrration, and students " which really made a big difference but that this project could not have been done without people in the community and I particularly thank Mr. Sheeley who anytime we needed a piece of equipment or top soil he was there to help and we really appreciate that."
  Superintendent Palmer applauded all the outstanding  efforts and help that made this project possible at a minimal cost. He added, "all of this would not have taken place without the support of the school board, the community, students and everyone that was involved."
  He noted other improvements to take place include a parking lot that will be accessible from Route 55A, the second softball field for the Junior Varsity, outfield fencing and in addition to the two softball fields the construction of a regulation size soccer field.
  Coach Mary Feusner gave some history of the softball program and the fields teams she coached played on including the elementary school diamond, City Field and the Fairgrounds.
  Feusner pointed out how she and the teams watched the new fields become reality with "the clearing of the trees, fill hauled in and the conversion of the swamp into our field of dreams."
  "We are so grateful for the planning, materials and  more importantly the work that went into preparing this field and we know it will help us to improve our game," Coach Feusner added.
  A nice crowd gathered at the ceremony and remained to see the Lady Bears defeat Chapel Field 4-1 on a four-hitter pitched by Kacie Allison who also recorded five strikeouts.
  Chapel Field Christian High School, based near Pine Bush, got into the scoring column quickly in the top  of the first with leadoff hitter Kristen Flynn's single to center. Karen Schaper before grounding out took an illegal pitch from Allison which automatically advanced Flynn to second base. 
  Chapel Field's Alyssa Trotti hit a grounder to short and beat out the throw advancing Flynn to third where she scored her team's lone run on a single to center by Shelby Davidson.
  Tri-Valley got into the scoring column in the bottom of the third on hits by Ashton Krummack, Morgan Shamro, several walks and a pop fly out to short stop by Angie DiToro which scored Krummack from third.
  The second run by Tri-Valley was scored in the bottom of the fourth with a ground ball double hit past the third baseman by Ashley Exner who was replaced at second by substitute runner Katie Jester. Mikayla Clearwater stroked a ground ball to short, was safe on the throw to first and the speedy Jester scored putting the Lady Bears in the lead 2-1.
  Tri-Valley increased their lead in the bottom of the fifth with Marina Braddock reaching first on a ground ball error to third where she immediately stole second. Allison singled to center putting runners on first and third. Allison stole second and Liz Hannold recorded two RBI's with a single to center.
  Allison took control in the top of the sixth and seventh innings allowing no hits and no runs for the 4-1 Bears victory.
  Chapel Field Coach Michael Bonagura's comment following the game was, "Tri-Valley hit the ball hard and got timely hitting and this is probably the best Tri-Valley team we have ever seen with excellent pitching."
  Coach Feusner said, "we wanted to have a victory today just because of the big ceremony and all but I was a little concerned in the first inning with hits not dropping in and things not exactly going our way."
  "It took us a little while to score but we got the job done," she added.
  With this non-league win the Lady Bears overall record is 6-4, 1-2 in OCIAA Division V league play.
 

Dedication of New Softball Fields

  GRAHAMSVILLE-- The grand opening ceremony for the new Tri-Valley Central School varsity softball field complex will be held at 3:15 p.m. this afternoon (May 2).
  The ceremony will include ribbon cutting and a first pitch ceremony.
  The varsity softball field and complex which also includes a second softball field was  designed by Tri-Valley's Agriculture Education teacher Robert Hayes who also performs the maintenance and upkeep of the outdoor athletic facilities at Tri-Valley.
  The project was started in the summer of 2011 with assessment of the site and space, fill was added, a rough grade was performed and a site plan was completed.
  In the fall of 2011 work included graded sub-grade and the perimeter grade and field footprint was completed.
  During the summer of 2012 they added drainage for sub soil plus grading then installation of drainage for the infields was done along with completing construction for the backstop.
  During the fall months of 2012 construction included adding top soil and rough grade for finished elevation.
  The spring and summer months of 2013 saw completion of infield areas and drainage, ball field mix was added, dug out construction began, added top soil and compost for the final grade and field was fertilized, seeded, mulch added and the bleacher pads were added.
  This spring saw the finished touches and official completion of the project except for outfield fences which will be constructed in the near future.
  The new softball complex is located in back of the football gridiron and track facilities.
   In charge of this project were Hayes, TVCS Buildings and Grounds Supervisor Jesse Bell and School Superintendent Tom Palmer.
   People who either helped, assisted or volunteered included Hayes, Bell, the school buildings and grounds department,  Hayes Sports Field Management class, his Conservation Class, his After School Program members, Tri-Valley students Andrew Exner, Kyle Henderson and Jared Ratner, Preston Kelly and the Town of Neversink volunteer workers, Mr. Pompeii and Mr. Huebsche's construction classes, Howard Osterhout, Pete Furman, Mike DeLorenzo and Jim Sheeley.
  The second field once completed will be the for the JV program and the Elementary Field will be for Modified softball giving each team their own field.
  Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Derek Adams pointed out that the cost of the project included approximately $95,000 in materials over the two plus year period and that a field like this would normally cost $500,000 a piece to construct through a contractor.
  "We essentially had $1,000,000 in fields constructed for 1/10th the cost and we will also save increasing amounts of money on transportation costs to the fairgrounds plus the cost of field preparation," Adams said.
  A non-league game will be played at 4:30 against Chapel Field.
  Rain date for this event has been set for Friday, May 16.
  The first game played on this field was this past Monday with S. S. Seward defeating the Lady Bears 20-1.
  Bri TerBush went 2 for 2 for Ti-Valley and Kacie Allison had the only RBI.
  The loss gives the Lady Bears a 5-4 record, 1-2 in OCIAA league Division V play.
 

GOLFING HIGHLIGHTS

 Slow Start For Local Golf

  Local golf professionals and golf course superintendents at area golf courses have expressed the fact that it's been a cold spring and the mixed bag of rain, sleet and snow has deterred a good launch of the Sullivan County Golf Season.
  But the good news is that the grass is growing and turning green, some trees are budding and its time to tee it up....it it straight and long and lets enjoy the Tri-County golf season.
  Thanks to the creek not rising and the Good Lord's blessings Golfing Highlights is back for our 14th season and we will do our best to provide you with a column filled with golf league statistics, league standings, tournament information, the happenings on our local golf courses, information about new and present golf equipment, a golf and putting tip, Ed's Outlook and golf feature stories.
  Special attention this week goes out to all golf league secretaries and club professionals ....remember to get your weekly golf league standings to my email address, edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or my fax number 845-205-4474 and be sure to let us know about hole-in-one achievements.

                                                    Bob Menges Joins
                                                    Us For His 11th Year

  Swan Lake Golf & Country Club Professional Bob Menges joins us for his 11th year educating golfers with his weekly tips.
  This 48-year-old golf professional started his golf career as an assistant pro at the Swan Lake Golf Club under then Professional Steve Eisenberg.
  Menges will continue this year giving private golf lessons and will conduct Junior Golf Camps during different weeks this summer.
  Golfers can call Bob at 845-292-0323.

                                                    Ed's Outlook

  Sullivan County golf courses that will be open this season include Tarry Brae, Lochmor, Grossinger's, Sullivan County Golf & Country Club, Swan Lake Golf & Country Club, Villa Roma, Tennanah Lake, the Monster and Twin Village Golf Club.
  Closed for this season is Kutcher's but we are told that the course will be maintained and that there may be some modifications in the course when it re-opens.  
  To date the only major change in personnel at area golf courses is that Course Superintendent Pat McNamara has moved from Kutcher's to become the new superintendent at Lochmor and Tarry Brae.
  We will feature Pat in one of our upcoming columns.
  Also  coming up in future columns will be what the economy has done to the sport of golf, the need for a golf package coordinator here in the tri-county area and our outlook on new golf equipment and updates on what's new at our golf courses.

  Ed Townsend is a PR Consultant to the sport of golf. He writes and compiles the information for this column. If you have league and tournament information, score a hole-in-one or shoot your age, call Ed at 845-439-8177, email edwardctownsend@hotmail.com or fax at 845-205-4474. View this column at http://bght.blogspot.com We are also on Facebook and Twitter.  

                                                            Golf Tip
                                                  By Bob Menges

  Spring is taking its sweet time getting here but there is nothing like the smell of fresh cut grass in the air.
  As we begin our early golf season, here are some hints to help you get going.
  As we get out on the course and start playing and if you are like me, you get excited and the thrill of low scores runs through our heads.
  If you are trying something new with your swing, be careful not ot overload your brain with too many new thoughts.
  Sometimes when you think too much your body may shut down physically. I would suggest going back to the beginning.
  Remember the three fundamentals a good golfer tries to repeat each time he or she swings....grip, aim and set up. First always be sure you are gripping the club properly and try to maintain a light grip pressure.
  A big fault for early golf is to become frustrated at bad shots and start gripping the club too hard and then your arms and hands will not be able to swing the club.
  When you set up, work on your posture and remember to keep your feet closer together than you think. For iron shots, the outsides of your feet should be shoulder width apart, and for hybrids and woods, the insides of your feet should bed shoulder width apart.
  When your stance gets too wide, you have a tendency to slide your hips instead of rotating them.
  Try to let your arms hang underneath your shoulders to allow for less tension in your forearms.
  Golf is a target game, so always try to aim at something for every shot. Try to develop a pre shot routine by standing behind the ball and picking a target, then walk around to the side of the ball and get set up parcel to your target line.
  Remember spring golf is the time to develop good habits that will make you become a beter golfer as the summer gets closer. The goal is to steadily impdrove as the year goes on.
  Robert Menges is the head professional at the Swan Lake Golf & Country Club on Mt. Hope Road at Swan Lake. He is available for private lessons and if you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached by telephone at 845-292-0323 or via email at menges@hughes.net

                                                             The Putting Tip
                                                           By Joe Bermel

  We welcome back for the fourth year the world famous "Putting Doctor" Joe Bermel who will entertain us about the importance of putting to the entire game of golf.
  Putting: A Pragmatic Approach:
  How important is putting to the entire game of golf? We cannot understate it....on average 43% of the total game is putting. For a golfer to tangibly raise the skill level of their putting game, they must understand, and be committed to apply, all the Keys To Good Consistent Putting.
  Absolute Key  # 1 is organization of your mind. What are we going to do and how are we going to go about doing it. A clear organized mind is paramount.
 Key # 2 is a specific, exacting, methodical Pre-Putt Routine (PPR). A great PPR is always airtight.
  Key # 3 is that of a triangle. Your eyes see the distance between the ball and the hole. A signal is send to your mind. Your mind sends a signal to the muscles in your fingers for the amount of acceleration for thed desired distance you want the ball to travel....Eyes, Mind, Hand.
  Joe is available for private lessons, group, corporate, organizations and golf shows. His two special editions DVD "How To Putt Well" along with his new 2014 Putting Tip Of The Month Calendar are available by calling 631-589-1384, at his web site www.ThePuttingDoctor.com or by email at joe@theputtingdoctor.com

                                                                 Golf Events

May 9, Mamakating Lions, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
May 16, Marine Corp GL, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
May 31, FallsburgPBA, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
June 6, Monticello PBA, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
June 7, TwaiKwen Do, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
June 14, Bill Carleson Memorial, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
June 14, David Curreri Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
June 21, Jake Gunther Classic, Tarry Brae, call 845-796-6480.
June 21, St. Peter's of Liberty, SC Golf & CC, call 845-292-9584.
June 22, Roscoe Fire Dept., Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 6, Memorial Tourament & Dinner, Twin Village GC, call 607-498-5829.
July 12, Sull. Co. Republican Party, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 18, Country Store Youth Foundation, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 19, Liberty Elks, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
July 19, Monticello FD, Lochmor, call 845-434-2620.
July 20, Par 3 Fun Tournament, Twin Village GC, call 607-498-5829.
July 26, Billy Moran Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
Aug. 15, United Way Bob Rosen Memorial, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
Sept. 6, Trevor Simpson Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.
Sept. 14, Rock Hill FD, Tarry Brae, call 845-434-2620.
Sept. 20, Kathy McMichael Memorial, Tennanah Lake G&CC, call 607-498-5000.