BrEAd BAskEts
By russ tArBy Contributing writer
The willow-weaving industry began in Liverpool in 1852 when John Fischer, a Germanborn salt boiler, noticed willow bushes growing profusely in nearby swamps. That willow closely resembled the German domestic willow that was used for basketry.
By the 1890s, Liverpool basket weavers were producing an estimated 300,000 willow laundry baskets each year, making this small village an international center of basket production. The Liverpool willow-weaving business was a cottage industry that supported scores of Liverpool families for decades.
On Aug. 10 and 11, British-born Bonnie Gale taught a class of 11 how to weave an authentic, Liverpool-style willow basket, specifically a bread basket. The weaving took place at the village hall on Sycamore Street. The class also visited the Liverpool Willow Museum on the grounds of the Gleason Mansion.
For the past four decades, Gale – who now lives in Norwich – has been a professional willow basket maker well known for her living willow sculptures and willow caskets.
Gale said she chose to teach the bread basket because it’s an excellent beginning willow basket.
“It provides a lot of the basic techniques used in the old Liverpool baskets,” she said. “It is a joy to make, and it demonstrates the intrinsic functional nature of willow.”
Among the novice weavers here were Liverpool Mayor Stacy Finney and her husband, Ray.
“Bonnie is one of America’s most prominent willow basket makers,” Finney said. “She has is a wealth of knowledge and patience. We are so fortunate that CNY Arts brings her here each year.”
The project was made possible with funds from a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts administered here by CNY Arts.
Family Matters of CNY welcomes kaylee damm
Central New
York native Kay-
lee Damm has joined the staff at Family Matters of CNY.
Damm, who holds a mental health counseling degree with an advance certificate in LGBTQ from New York University, previously served an internship as an associate counselor at Thrive Psychotherapy in Manhattan.
kaylee damm
At Family Matters of CNY, Damm will be providing administrative oversight and as well as well as assisting therapists and graduate-level therapy students in their work providing specialized counseling to separated/ divorced families.
With offices in North Syracuse and Oswego, Family Matters of CNY specializes in treating families experiencing a high conflict divorce and offers a range of counseling services. It is also a training site for master’s level marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors.
LMs
Liverpool Central School District Director of Fine Arts Adam Shatraw announced that five Liverpool Middle students were honored with selections to the 2024 Junior High All-County Band and Orchestra this past school year.
Receiving honors from LMS were seventh-grader Judah Covell (orchestra), eighth-grader Alyssa Taggart (orchestra), eighthgrader Katie Reed (band), eighth-grader Lauren Fader (band) and seventhgrader Dean Scott (band).
The students performed during the 2024 Junior High All-County Festival that was held Jan. 26 and 27 at Eagle Hill Middle.
The Onondaga County Music Educators Association sponsors the festival.
Submitted photoS
The 11 novice willow weavers and their teacher, Bonnie Gale, pose with their finished bread baskets in front of the Village Hall on Aug. 11.
Liverpool Mayor Stacy Finney in the middle of making a bread basket here earlier this month.
Submitted photo
Five Liverpool Middle students recently earned 2024 Junior High All County Band and Orchestra honors. Pictured, from left, are Judah Covell, Alyssa Taggart, Katie Reed, Lauren Fader and Dean Scott.
Cowburn earns degree from NIU
Over 2,200 students received their degrees from Northern Illinois University in May. Included among the graduates was Ethan Cowburn of Liverpool, who earned a master’s degree in music performance.
SUNY Cortland announces president’s list
There are 710 SUNY Cortland students who earned president’s list honors for the Spring 2024 semester. To qualify, students must earn a grade of A- or better in each of their classes while carrying a course load of 12 hours or more. Among those on the list were: Karina Stewart, of Brewerton, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Marisa Frascatore, of Clay, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Liverpool residents Jason Baycura, business economics; Jacquelyn Foster, psychology; Jacob Ianno, political science; Emilee Jeffrey, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Michael Salinas, exercise science; Kelsey Sheerin, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Stella Thayer, inclusive childhood education; and Sarah Watkins, early childhood and childhood education B-6.
SUNY Potsdam names area students to dean’s, president’s lists
The State University of New York at Potsdam recently named 177 students who excelled academically in the spring 2024 semester to its president’s and dean’s lists. Peter Weber, of Liverpool, whose major is English and creative writing, was named to the dean’s list. Named to the president’s list were Raistlin Brisson of Liverpool,
whose major is anthropology; Sabrina Clubine of North Syracuse, whose major is music education; Josh Coldren of Liverpool, whose major is music education; Hannah Sywulski of Brewerton, whose major is music education; Kayla Tarquinio of Brewerton, whose major is business administration; and Mackenzie Wessels of Cicero, whose major is geology. To achieve the honor of being on the president’s list, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically-graded semester hours, with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. To achieve the honor of being on the dean’s list, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numericallygraded semester hours, with a grade point average of between 3.25 and 3.49 in the given semester.
Local student-athlete makes LSC Commissioner’s Honor Roll Student-athlete Alexandra Bednarczyk of Baldwinsville, has been named to the Lone Star Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll for her academic performance during the spring 2024 semester. To be eligible, student-athletes must have a minimum 3.30 GPA for the semester and be on an active roster. Participants on all 19 LSC championship sports and five non-conference sports, as well as athletic training and athletics performance student staff, are included among the spring 2024 honorees. Bednarczyk is majoring in Engineering Fundamentals CE at Angelo State.
Araceli Lassalle graduates from University of Hartford
Araceli Lassalle of Liverpool has re -
ceived the degree of Bachelor of Science from the University of Hartford’s College of Arts and Sciences.
Local students make SUNY Cortland Spring 2024 Dean’s List
Local SUNY Cortland students named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2024 semester, the highest ranking for undergraduate students in their respective academic areas of the university. Students must earn a minimum 3.3 grade point average for the semester to make the list. Among those honored are: North Syracuse resident Alexandra Dietrich, psychology.
Brewerton residents Lucas Gipe, physical education K-12; Emma Dempsey, speech & hearing science; Paige Nitzke, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Benjamin Russell, communication studies; and Karina Stewart, early childhood and childhood education B-6.
Clay residents Brandon Sebelowitz, sport management; Grant Sennett, physical education K-12; Tricia Colunio, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Marisa Frascatore, early childhood and childhood education B-6; and Mariah Gilligan, early childhood and childhood education B-6.
Cicero residents Hunter Garcia, criminology; James Fehrman, physical education K-12; Meggan Cramer, healthcare management; Reynolds Davis, physical education K-12; Bailey Spencer, early childhood and childhood education B-6; and Kyle Toms, sport management.
Liverpool residents John Andrejko, exercise science; Mia Anthony, physical education K-12; Jason Baycura, business economics; Isabelle Borell, speech and hearing science; Veronica DeTota, speech & hearing science; Justin Derouchie, mathematics; Jacquelyn Foster, psychology; Andrew Griffis, environmen -
tal geosciences; Ellie Grinnals, physical education K-12; Myah Harris, African American studies; Jacob Ianno, political science; Emilee Jeffrey, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Matthew Klamm, business economics; Faith Lawrence, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Samuel Michalak, physical education K-12; Michael Salinas, exercise science; Kelsey Sheerin, early childhood and childhood education B-6; Jamie Snyder, adolescence education: social studies; Stella Thayer, inclusive childhood education; Belle Thompson, psychology Olivia Vangelov, communication studies; and Sarah Watkins, early childhood and childhood education B-6. Buffalo State University announces spring 2024 dean’s list
In general, students who have completed at least 12 credit hours and who have attained a GPA of 3.5 or higher qualify for the Buffalo State dean’s list. Full criteria and grade-type exceptions can be found in the undergraduate catalog Buffalo State University is pleased to recognize the following local students who have been named to the spring 2024 dean’s list: Cindy Paul of Brewerton, Adrienne Willis of Clay, Emily Lodge of Liverpool, Jadah Hudgins of Liverpool and Hahmier Williams-Borges of Liverpool.
Local athletes named to SUNYAC Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll Erik Wall of Clay was among the 141 SUNY Potsdam student-athletes to earn a spot on the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll for the 2023-24 school year. Athletes named to the honor roll had a minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA for the year, Wall is a freshman member of the SUNY Potsdam Men’s Basketball team and is majoring in Business Administration.
A sMALL PArt oF A LArGEr story
By ourselves, we are
very small, very insignificant. Especially compared to what is out there. This proved the ultimate lesson of the longest trip of my lifetime, thousands of miles across four time zones and a continent to experience something truly
special. At the heart of it was seven days spent out at sea, from Seattle’s vast port up Puget Sound and ultimately along the northeastern coast
of Alaska, a place where breathtaking beauty understates the case.
But the first serious awe-inspiring sight was the cruise ship itself. Having never gone on one of these excursions before, absolutely nothing prepares you for turning the corner
•
•
•
Share your milestone celebrations!
Eagle Newspapers is here to help readers share their milestone celebrations, including birth announcements, engagements, weddings, anniversaries and milestone birthdays. The deadline to submit an announcement is 10 a.m. the Friday before publication. Announcements of up to 250 words with a photo cost just $50, with an additional 15 cents per word over 250 words. Announcements will be posted to eaglenewsonline.com within 24 hours of receipt of payment. To submit a milestone announcement, email Alyssa Dearborn at adearborn@eaglenewsonline.com, or call 315.434.8889 ext. 305.
At
the fair
Is it the rides? Or maybe it is the food? Or maybe it is the live entertainment? Maybe it is the cows, sheep, chickens and other assorted animals?
Maybe it is something else all together? Or maybe it is a combination of all of the above and many other things that aren’t even on this list?
Whatever the reasons are many of us and thousands of others from across the state and even from out of state will be spending some time at the Great New York State Fair over the next few weeks
The fair is a long running tradition that has been enjoyed and shared for generations.
And while many of us don’t like to see summer coming to an end, the fair is a staple, a tradition, that marks this time of year in Central New York.
A tradition that for many that marks the last weeks of the summer season and it gives us the opportunity to enjoy a number of attractions and activities and highlight some of the best things our state has to offer, from food and entertainment to agriculture and everything in between.
The fair has a long and rich history and it has become New York’s largest annual event and tradition for hundreds of thousands of families from all corners of the state.
The first fair took place in Syracuse in 1841 and by 1890 had made Syracuse its permanent home.
It is the oldest and one of the largest state fairs in the United States, with nearly one million visitors annually and more than a million in 2018 when attendance hit about 1.2 million people.
The idea of the fair goes back a few years prior to its official start when in February of 1832, the New York State Agricultural Society was founded in Albany by a group of farmers, legislators, and others to promote agricultural improvement and local fairs.
The nation’s first state fair was later held in Syracuse from Sept. 29 to 30, 1841.
Attendance was estimated at 10,000 to 15,000 and features included speeches, animal exhibits, a plowing contest, and samples of manufactured farm and home goods.
In the ensuing years prior to 1890, the fair moved to various cities across the state.
The second New York State Fair was held in Albany in 1842. Between 1842 and 1889, the fair traveled among 11 different cities: Albany, Auburn, Buffalo, Elmira, New York City, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Syracuse, Utica and Watertown.
In September 1890, the Syracuse Land Company donated a 100-acre tract of land in Geddes to the Agricultural Society.
Crossed by railways that facilitated exhibit transport, the Onondaga County location became the fair’s permanent home.
In the late 1890s, The Agricultural Society turned to state government for relief from debt due to the construction of permanent buildings on the site. The state purchased the grounds in 1899, and assumed management of the fair the next year, creating an 11-member State Fair Commission appointed by the governor.
Over the next few decades, changes took place that helped shape the fair and fairgrounds as we now know them with the addition of structures like the Center of Progress Building and the Dairy Building and most recently more changes took place beginning in 2015 and highlighting the Expo Center.
But as the fair and its grounds have changed and grown, the mission has remained largely the same, highlight and share the best of New York State.
So whether it is a concert or bringing the kids for a day of rides and games or a night out to enjoy some drinks and food, take some time to safely enjoy the Great New York State Fair.
KiND wORDS LiVE ON
As time goes by, you are in so many ways, the changed by of all of your relationships, some that are beneficial, some that are less so. And there are relationships that are fleeting - a breeze that caught your attention on a warm day. Then it was a call from a cell phone that kept dropping off so that the conversation had many twists and turns trying to reconnect. It lasted no more than 10 minutes.
It was a few weeks ago that an anxious me had been referred to an attorney for some specialized legal advice. The secretary in the office gave my name and number to the gentleman in question and he contacted me while he was on the road. I’m fairly sure that someone else was driving. In any case, I outlined the reason for my referral and he responded with pointed queries. We went back and forth question and answer several times as the cell reception was lost and regained and I had to contact his office to reconnect. It was a bit complicated but that’s how the 10 or so minutes
played out. The conversation was professional but warm and friendly, the attorney pointing out that my situation was not one to cause me any concern. Basically, it was “Go in peace” advice. Now, being who I am, I always like to know something personal about people with whom I interact. I made note of the fact that he began law school at Syracuse University the same year that I graduated from SU. (I had googled him prior to calling his office) He laughed a deep throaty chuckle and said that we were of the same vintage, perhaps looking at the world a bit differently than others.
I thanked him for his time and asked how I could compensate him. He laughed again, and said there was “no charge for someone as ancient as he was.”
“How about some cookies … homemade cookies,” I asked. You could almost hear him smile. He agreed to accept my offer and I promised to bring him a dozen or so next week. It was the least I could do for
someone who had made my day so much better. My intent was to make the cookies over the weekend and then deliver them on Monday, but life got in the way and I put off making the cookies until late on Thursday night. I wasn’t feeling well at all that evening, but a promise is a promise. On Friday, I packed up some ricotta cheese dainties and headed to Fayetteville, thinking that a week had passed since our conversation and the attorney might have forgotten my offer. I rang the bell and met one of the administrative assistants who, when I explained why I was there, called another gal to join us in the hall. I again explained about my promise, when one of the women touched my hand and said, “He passed last night.”
Nothing could have surprised me more. Sure, I know that, at my age, dying is not a surprise, but it only seemed right that so generous a soul who would spend even a few moments with a complete stranger, assuaging her anxiety that he should receive some kind of … what can I call it? Compensation? Payment?
Good karma? … I don’t know.
“Please eat the cookies in his honor” I said to the women, unexpected tears breaking the words. And so, this graduate of the Wharton School of Business and the Syracuse University School of law, who practiced that law for 57 years and led a good and productive life, left someone to remember him who never even saw his face. He remains anonymous here because there have been no public notices of his passing and I suspect that may be just as he wished.
He never got to taste the cookies. I hope that intention counts for something. I have kept him in my prayers and, with this column, have now shared a few thoughts about his kindness in a sometimes not-sokind modern world. Requiescat in pace advocatus.
Ann Ferro is a mother, a grandmother and a retired social studies teacher. While still figuring out what she wants to be when she grows up, she lives in Marcellus with lots of books, a spouse and a large orange cat.
Shaking up Sunday’s specials at The Retreat
For as long as I can remember, on Sundays The Retreat at 302 Vine St., has served three special entrees: a traditional roast turkey dinner with sides of squash and stuffing, a creamy chicken and biscuits and a Rhineland sauerbraten.
That last dish, a Bavarian beef treatment, is an old-time Liverpool favorite. German immigrants flocked to the village in the 19th century, and they brought the recipe for that bittersweet entrée with them across the Atlantic. Eventually, sauerbraten became a staple at local diners and restaurants.
Vinegar marinade
At The Retreat, head chef Todd O’Hara would spend many days and many hours preparing the sour beef for Sunday’s specials menu.
Thinly sliced and tenderly marinated, the eye of the round is simmered in traditional sauerbraten gravy rich with vinegar spiced with onion, sugar and cloves. The dish is served over fried egg noodles and garnished with homemade spiced apple sauce, braised red cabbage and potato pancakes.
Just typing those words makes my mouth water.
Anyhow, I’ve noticed that over the past few months, The Retreat’s Sunday specials are fluctuating. On May 26, for example, tenderloin tips ala mento replaced the braten and a backyard barbecue platter substituted for the chicken and biscuits, although you could still order up the homestyle roast turkey.
Appreciation of SLA
To the editor:
I am so grateful to the Skaneateles Lake Association. I was checking their website for information and discovered that the association had created a “Lost and Found.” I had lost a 20-foot wooden crossbeam from our boathouse during a severe winter storm.
I’m thinking there is no way it will be in the lost and found. I clicked the button and there it was. I could not believe my eyes. I called the association and was told I would be called shortly by the good neighbors who found my property washed up on their shore.
Thank you so much Skaneateles
Managing Editor: Jennifer Wing, ext 340, jwing@eaglenewsonline com
News Editor: Jason Gabak, ext 319, jgabak@eaglenewsonline com
Subscription info: lori Newcomb, ext 333, lnewcomb@eaglenewsonline com
sports Editor: Phil Blackwell, ext 348, pblackwell@eaglenewsonline com display Ads: Paul Nagle, ext 308, pnagle@eaglenewsonline com display Ads: lori lewis, ext 316, llewis@eaglenewsonline com
Come June 2, the biscuits dish was replaced by a more upscale fowl entrée, Italian breaded broccolistuffed chicken. On June 16, sauerbraten returned along with the turkey but the biscuits were supplanted by a steak and shrimp dish. On Sunday, July 21, the turkey dinner was joined by a margarita pork Delmonico and a London broil.
A couple weeks ago, I bumped into The Retreat’s jack-of-all-trades and kitchen manager Guy Hibbert over at M&T Bank, and I asked what’s up with the Sunday specials. Guy suggested that the three usual dishes might be a bit heavy for summertime consumption.
The good news is that sauerbraten may be missing in action some Sundays, but it’ll be back, you can count on that!
For reservations at The Retreat, call 315-457-6358.
Dr. Romano retires
On Aug. 1, local dentist Dr. Mike Romano – who lives in Liverpool – sent a letter to his patients announcing his retirement.
“After 40 years of practicing dentistry,” he wrote, “the time has come for me to step aside.”
Although his patients will miss the good doctor and his painless approaches to their teeth, he’s personally delivering a new Dr. Romano, his own daughter, Dr. Abigail Romano, who will take his place at the Summit Dental Group, 7555 Morgan Road.
“I could not be more proud to place my
Lake Association and good neighbors. JoE PHiLLiPs SkaneateleS
Music comes to life
To the editor:
The Skaneateles Library would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to SKARTS for the generous grant that made it possible for us to host two exceptional programs this summer in partnership with the Syracuse Orchestra: “My First Concert” and “Symphony of Serenity.” Together, these events attracted 80 attendees of all ages, each of whom had the opportunity to experience the profound impact of live music in an intimate setting. “My First Concert” intro -
Classified Advertising: Patti Puzzo, ext 321
ppuzzo@eaglenewsonline com
Billing questions: alyssa dearborn, ext 305, adearborn@eaglenewsonline com
Legal Advertising: luba demkiv, ext 303, ldemkiv@eaglenewsonline com
Publisher: david tyler, ext 302, dtyler@eaglenewsonline com
Creative director: Gordon Bigelow, ext 331, art@eaglenewsonline com
practice in the very capable hands of my daughter,” he wrote.
Abigail studied dentistry at the University of Buffalo and served her residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Dr. Mike Romano bid adieu to his patients and thanked them “for being part of my most rewarding career.”
Although he’s retiring from dentistry, Mike will continue working for the betterment of the village as chairman of both the Village Cemetery Committee and the village Memorial Day Parade Committee. Harold Mantor remembered Guitarist Harold Mantor Jr., who grew up in Galeville, enjoyed a career as one of the area’s hardest-rocking six stringers. Along the way, he played his beloved Gibson SG electric with popular bands such as Alec Star.
Unfortunately, the gifted musician died on the evening of March 18. He was a pedestrian struck by not one but two Centro buses near the corner of South Salina and Temple streets in Syracuse. On June 20, Centro fired the driver of the first bus to strike Mantor, Oleg Konopatskiy. The driver of the second bus reportedly avoided any disciplinary action.
Mantor was 69 years old.
Last word
“I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.” – 19th century British poet Sarah Williams.
Contact the columnist at russtarby@aol. com
duced young listeners to the beauty and intricacies of classical music, sparking curiosity and excitement for the arts. Meanwhile, “Symphony of Serenity” offered a unique blend of gentle yoga and live music, providing participants with a serene and meditative experience that highlighted the calming and unifying power of music.
We are truly grateful to SKARTS for their commitment to supporting the arts in our community. Their contribution has not only enriched the cultural life of Skaneateles but also inspired a new generation of music lovers.
With gratitude,
ANDREA SNYDER aSSiStant direCtor SkaneateleS library
Ramblings from the empty nest ann Ferro
Livin’ in Liverpool russ tarby
FROM THE MAILBAG
CALENDAR - SCHEMPP HOME
BY JEFF SNOw
town of Clay hiStorian Clay hiStoriCal aSSoCiation member
This calendar picture was used in the Clay Historical Calendar in September 1977. A current picture is featured to show what the house looks like today.
The 1977 calendar picture was drawn by one of the members of the North Syracuse Art Guild - Fran Kageals Forstadt.
From her obituary: Fran moved to the Syracuse area after completing her studies in Maine and New York City. She always had a passion for art from birth and eventually became a graphic designer. She was active in the local community theater for the Salt City Playhouse, working for Laubach Literacy, building and designing sets. Fran moved out of the Syracuse area in 1993 and passed away a few years ago in Virginia.
After studying an 1874 Town of Clay map, I discovered that the Shempp home was originally occupied by Rev Loren Adkins who officiated at the Euclid Methodist church for one year in 1855.
The property was then bought by T. Larue Sitterly. Sitterly’s son, Willis “Scott” Sitterly, was
Justice of the Peace for the Town of Clay for 24 years(1935-1959). After 1940 - the home was sold again to the Reinhold Schempp family, and still resides with the family today. Reinhold’s son Paul Schempp is the current owner.
Shempp’s amazing career started when he graduated from Cornell University and their R.O.T.C. program. He assisted in reorganizing the 174th Tactical Fighter Wing. He later retired as a major general. This excerpt was taken from the OHA collection at the Syracuse Regional Aviation Museum. The museum shows a flight suit, gloves, and helmet that Shempp wore during his missions. He was also presented with a 30 mm shell that is on display at the museum.
For viewing pictures of Schmepp’s display at the Syracuse Airport visit our Google page at “Clay Historical Association.” Or email me at historian@townofclay.or g if you have any questions.
The Clay Historical Association meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Clay Historical Park at 6:30 p.m. If you would like to attend or invite anyone to join the Clay Historical Association, we would love to have you.
l From page 3 Alaska
and getting the initial glimpse at a behemoth of a boat.
Hundreds of guest rooms, 19 floors, elevators that move quickly yet sometimes make you wait long enough to want to take the stairs, along with long, long hallways. You never feel like you’re on the water unless you look out the windows.
Oh, and what you get when you glance out of those windows? Gorgeous vistas that began with the Space Needle and Mount Rainier and only got better once Puget Sound was left behind.
Start to finish, Alaska was a show far better than anything inside the ship. Above all, you get blown away by the fact that, from the water, the land rises thousands of feet, up into glaciers and snowcapped mountains. Few places on Earth have this feature, and it helped that the sun shone at every Alaskan stop.
All I could do was marvel, espe -
Submitted photoS this house on Bonstead road has housed two distinguished gentlemen: one being a judge and the other a major general in the military.
Information about the North Syracuse Art Guild - After speaking with one of the members of the art guild, I learned the following information. They met at the NSEA Teachers Union Building at 210 S Main St., North Syracuse. Meetings are held every third Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. (SeptemberJune). Check them out on Facebook.
cially in the trip from Skagway up the Klondike, riding a train and then a bus on tracks and roads literally blasted out of the mountains with very little else except trees and a series of gorgeous lakes and waterfalls.
That same sense of awe was found in the water, too. Even amid a lot of fog, you knew there were times when the boat was the only object in site above the water’s surface. Occasionally birds flew in and out and, yes, a couple of whales showed up in the distance (or at least their tales did), but it still was humbling.
Combined, the land and the seas offered a loud reminder, even amid the quiet, of what we have on this planet – that is to say, so much natural wonder which should never, ever be taken for granted.
A vast majority of the land we saw in Alaska, along with British Columbia and Washington State, has rarely seen humans on it. It should stay that way. What’s bet -
ter, what’s more conservative, than actually conserving these places so that they’re still pristine and precious generations from now?
This remarkable spirit carried over onto the ship, too.
Since this was a cruise, it meant there was plenty of indulgence going on. Big meals, a chance to get lots of alcohol, swimming pools, a jacuzzi, movies on deck, stores and sit-down restaurants on the lower floors, all within reach.
These things were nice and we were pampered many times over, but what was far nicer, and far more meaningful, was what the crew brought to this experience.
Since this is an international company, it only figured that the crew hailed from more than 50 different counties. So many people from so many lands drawn to a large shared experience which, in the wrong hands, could prove miserable.
Instead, it was something close to divine. Their continual kindness and consideration, regardless
of the situation, offered a not-sosubtle lesson which many of our so-called leaders could use.
In short, this is a big planet full of people with big hearts and beautiful souls. Why are some so intent on driving them away or, if they still want to be here, making them forget or suppress their culture, heritage and background?
These are the reasons why I want to cruise again someday. Part of it is seeing other superb destinations and scintillating views. More of it is stepping away from an insular existence to truly experience our remarkable world.
Whether it’s walking along a coast bracketed by water and tall peaks or just watching someone fling a fish at Pike Place Market, our trip left us exhausted yet exhilarated and, above all else, humbled by what we witnessed and who we met along the way.
Phil Blackwell is sports editor at Eagle News. He can be reached at pblackwell@ eaglenewsonline.com.
Newspaper Delivery (Surrounding Syracuse)
Onondaga County’s Youth Bureau awarded over $200k
County Executive McMahon recently announced the Onondaga County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Youth Bureau Division was awarded funds from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) for Youth Summer Team Sports Programs.
Onondaga County’s Youth Bureau Division received over $200,000 through the Teams Sports Fund to enhance youth sports for children and youth ages 6 to 17 years old in under-resourced communities.
Youth participation in team sports improve problem-solving, teamwork and dispute resolution skills as well as has a positive impact on their development.
DEATH NOTICES
Kathleen A. Hinman, 89, of Elbridge, passed away Aug. 8, 2024. The Bush Funeral Home of Elbridge has charge of arrangements.
Send your events to adearborn@eaglenewsonline.com. Notices must have the date, time and location of the event. Deadline for submissions is 12 p.m. Friday. No calendar item can be guaranteed for placement in the papers, nor run for multiple weeks, unless it is a paid announcement. All free placement is on a space-available basis. Event information may be subject to change, so be sure to contact the event organizer to confirm the details.
AUG. 23 & 24
Rummage Sale
9 a.m.-12 p.m. Cicero United Methodist Church, 8416 Brewerton Rd.
SEPT. 14-22
Mattydale Hinsdale Seniors Trip to New Orleans
$1444 per person. Contact Susan at 315-2431581 for information.
SEPT. 30-OCT. 6
Branson Missouri Bus Trip
Sponsored by the Cicero United Methodist Church.
$1500 per person (double, or $1947 (single). $300 deposit. Includes transportation and lodging with six breakfasts, show boat lunch cruise, and more. Call Mary at 315-699-7181.
OCTOBER 21-26
Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountains Show Trip
$950 due August 14. Price includes transportation, lodging, three shows, tour of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, admission to Dollywood, and more. www.grouptrips.com/kathyssmokymountaingroup.
ONGOING EVENTS
THURSDAYS
Family Storytime
10 a.m. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane. Join Miss Raena for Thursday morning storytime to enjoy stories, songs, and fun! Registration is required; call 315-699-2032 or visit nopl.org.
Adult Exercise: Chair Yoga
9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
The local not-for-profit recipients are: North Area Athletic Club –$39,798, YWCA of Syracuse & Onondaga County, Youth Development Leadership Program –$39,081, Tillie’s Touch, Soccer League –$49,453, Refugee & Immigration SelfEmpowerment (RISE), Youth Soccer Leagues –$49,376 and Youth Enrichment Outreach Program (YEOP), Basketball League –$44,498.
“Investing in our youth is one of the most important things we can do in county government.” McMahon said. “Sports teach our youth about team work, discipline and healthy lifestyles which will help them grow and development into successful young adults.”
Colin E. Taft, 77, of Elbridge passed away Aug. 14, 2024. The Bush Funeral Home of Elbridge has charge arrangements.
Sparet the gerbil came to the shelter when his family could no longer care for him. He’s very curious and social and loves eating out of your hand. He enjoys arranging his nest of newspaper, and his favorite treat seems to be seeds. Gerbils are quiet animals, but like all pets, they have daily needs and special dietary guidelines. Remember to do you research before bringing any pet home! in order to adopt, you must fill out an application, pay an adoption fee, and have your pets up to date on their rabies vaccines. All adopted cats and dogs (but not gerbils) are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on their vaccinations before they go home. The CNY SPCA is located at 5878 East Molloy Road, Syracuse. For more information about adoption, call 315-454-4479, email frontdesk2@cnyspca.org, or visit cnyspca.org
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Marcellus Free Library. $25 for 8-week session. Register at 315-673-3269.
Read, Sing, Play Story Time
10:30 a.m. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St. Can’t sit still? No problem! Join us for stories, songs and movement. For ages 18 months to 4 years.
Bingo 4 p.m. Fingerlakes Mall Conference Center, 1570
Clark Street Rd., Aurelius.
Yoga with Becca 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Brewerton Center for the Arts, Rt. 11. Registration and information: 315-920-8121 or www.yogosnacks.org. All levels welcome.
Baldwinsville Rod & Gun Club
7 p.m. First Thursday of each month. 1405 Kingdom Road, Baldwinsville. Learn about the workings of the club and help us run the organization. For more information, visit bvillerodandgun.com.
FRIDAYS
B’ville Cardio Ball Drumming
9:30 a.m. Canton Woods Senior Center, 76 Canton St., Baldwinsville. Onondaga County Healthy Schools and Communities has provided cardio ball drumming kits for workout classes led by senior volunteer Arlette Folckemer. This fun cardio workout is set to upbeat music and folks can participate and enjoy the class seated or standing. For more information, call Canton Woods at 315-638-4536.
Clay Cardio Ball Drumming
10:30 a.m. Clay Senior Center, 4948 Route 31. Gwen McCarroll leads this one-hour class. Free with a Town of Clay Senior Center Membership and Safety ID badge for admission. Drop-in; no entry after the day’s class begins. Equipment provided on a first-come, first-served basis for ball and basket setup. For more information or to sign up for a membership and ID badge, contact Chrissy Clancy at 315-6523800 ext. 137 or cclancy@townofclay.org.
Acoustic Music Jam
7 p.m. Marcellus American Legion, 13 E. Main St. Bluegrass,country and gospel music. All acoustic
musicians welcome. $2 donation for free coffee and cookies. For info call 315-673-2329.
SUNDAYS
Cicero UMC Services
8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Cicero UMC, 8416 Brewerton Road. The church is returning to two Sunday services (contemporary 8:30 a.m. and traditional 10:30 a.m.). All are welcome to enjoy worship and fellowship. The church is fully accessible. For more information, visit ciceroumchurch.org.
MONDAYS
Drop-In Tech Help
10 a.m. to noon. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St. Let us help with your tech questions: computers and mobile devices, downloading e-content from the library’s catalog, using Google Drive and social media platforms. Bring your device and drop in during a Tech Help session to get started. Appointments are also available; please give us a call at 315-685-5135 or email andrea@skanlibrary.org to schedule.
Cruisin’ with Vets 4-7 p.m. VFW Post 3146, 2000 Lemoyne Ave., Mattydale. Check out classic cars and bikes while enjoying food, 50-50 raffles and live music from Roadhouse Prophets. Sponsored by Hungers for Hope, InFocus Insurance, Microbore and Dynamax Digital Printing.
MONDAYS, TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS
Thrift Shop
9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Elbridge Community Church, 109 E. Main St. No consignments, but donations accepted. For more information, call 315-689-3797.
MONDAY & FRIDAYS
Senior Exercise Class
9 a.m.-10 a.m. Marcellus Free Library. Taught by dance instructor Mary Jo Pelc. 315-673-3269.
MONDAYS, THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS
OCRRA’s Household Toxics Drop-Off
Appointment required. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Miller Environmental, 532 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse (off Hiawatha Boulevard). Business materials are not accepted.
Residents of the town and village of Skaneateles are not eligible for this program as these municipalities are not part of the OCRRA service area. Visit OCRRA. org to make an appointment and see the full list of what is and is not accepted.
TUESDAYS Coffee with the Liverpool Chamber 8 a.m. Zoom. Network with fellow entrepreneurs virtually. Visit liverpoolchamber.com/events-calendar/ to register.
Story Time for Bookworms
10:30 a.m. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St. For children who enjoy longer books, this story time includes multiple stories, songs, and ends with hands-on play. For ages 2-5.
Preschool Story Time
10:30 a.m. Skaneateles Library, 49 E. Genesee St. Grab a blanket or lawn chair and join us as we read, sing, and play together on the Library Lawn. For ages 3 to 5 years. Registration required; visit skanlibrary. org or call 315-685-5135.
Fun for all Story Time 11 a.m. Salina Free Library. Weekly story time for ages 3-6. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for sunny days.
JE Seniors Lunch Noon. JE Community Center, 1 Route 31, Jordan. The town of Elbridge hosts PEACE, Inc., Senior Nutrition lunches every Tuesday and Friday. Reservations required; $3.75 suggested donation. Lunch is followed by a guest speaker or activity on the first Tuesday of the month. Special events are $10. Please call 315-378-8004 or visit townofelbridge.com to confirm registration dates and times.
Mah Jongg 12 p.m. Salina Library, 100 Belmont St., Mattydale. Mah Jongg is a fascinating rummy-like game you play with tiles rather than cards. Instruction is available for beginners. Do you have experience? You can help to teach others. Please register.
Submitted photo
onondaga County Executive ryan McMahon recently announced that onondaga County Youth Bureau was awarded more than $200,000.
BY DONNA NEwMAN photo provided by the CnySpCa
