Survey Allows Public To Weigh In on Library Project Phase 2

By DARLA M. YOUNGS ONEONTA

Huntington Memorial Library has released a survey inviting public input on Phase 2 of its Huntington Park Project. As a result of two prior surveys, the areas that will be improved in “the new Huntington Park” are the library entry and gardens, the Crossroads Art Plaza, and the Children’s Discovery Zone.

Library officials have also announced that Urban Landscape Studio has been selected to lead the development of the next phase of improvements to the park. A small landscape architecture firm based in Saratoga Springs, ULS was founded and is led by registered landscape architect Erin Maciel, who has more than 13 years’ experience in public infrastructure, transportation, parkland and residential projects.

“About nine different firms submitted proposals for the Phase 2 Project. It was honestly a very difficult decision, and the ones we interviewed could all have done a fantastic job,” said Huntington Memorial Library Director Tina Winstead. “ULS was selected because they went the extra mile and showed us some ideas for Huntington Park. Their previous work demonstrated beautiful designs, so we knew they have the talent required to have a positive impact on our park.”

Winstead is the project lead and there is a Board Park Committee who participates in progress decisions. The full Library Board plays an active role in approving changes, she explained.

According to the previous surveys, the public was most interested in seeing development of the children’s area, terrace overlook, sledding hill and a literary garden. The terrace overlook and sledding hill were completed last year, along with hillside plantings and park lighting.

The library has received a $500,000.00 grant from the New York State Office of Parks,

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Grammy-award Winning Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet Returns to Coop

By IAN KENYON

COOPERSTOWN

In another indisputable sign that spring is upon us, noted Latin Grammy award-winning artist Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet will return to perform at

Cooperstown’s Origins Cafe on Sunday, may 7 to open the venue’s seasonal concert series. Giraudo, a native Argentine bassist and composer, frequently noted as one of the most compelling tango artists of our time, has been hailed by critics as one of the most creative and daring bandleaders on the scene today. many people hear ‘tango’ and move to assume that it will require some dancing—the quartet will perform rather what we call a ‘listening’ tango, suited

“We are very excited to return to Cooperstown and share our music with the wonderful community built around Origins,” Giraudo noted.

The may 7 performance, as part of a full evening experience including tapas cuisine, will present Giraudo’s compelling tango ensemble, recognized for its unique adaptation of Argentine tango, European classical music and American jazz elements. Evan Jagels, Origins Cafe’s music director, added further detail behind the music to be presented on Sunday.