MidHudsonNews [dot] com is reporting Ulster County Executive Patrick Ryan has directed county Health Commissioner Dr. Carol Smith “to take every step necessary to help prevent the spread of tick-borne diseases including the implementation of an expanded public awareness campaign.” The order came after the recent death of a Gardiner resident from Powassan, a tick-borne virus spread by infected deer ticks. Republican state Senator Susan Serino of Hyde Park said, “Ticks are out in full force and it is important to always do a tick check on yourself, your loved ones and your pets each time you come inside after spending any amount of time outdoors.” Serino also criticized the Democratic leadership in Albany, saying there has been a "noticeable backslide" of late in the state's effort to combat Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. She cited cuts to funding for research, education and prevention of the diseases as evidence of the lapse, and warned of the resulting threat to public health and safety. Read the full story at MidHudsonNews [dot] com.