CAzEnoviA CElEBrAtEs ClAss of 2024
Voters approve school district’s revised 2024-25 budget
By kAtE Hill Staff Writer
On June 18, voters in the Cazenovia Central School District (CCSD) approved a revised school budget proposal for the 2024-25 school year.
The $38,427,222 budget carries an estimated 4.02 percent tax levy increase and represents a 5.19 percent increase over the 2023-24 budget.
Residents approved the revised budget by a vote of 1,127 to 546 after rejecting CCSD’s original $38,826,826 spending proposal by 34 votes on May 21.
The district’s original plan was to maintain academic and support programming
while closing this year’s budget gap with an estimated 5.84 percent tax levy increase, the use of $1,641,005 in fund balance, some restored state aid, and $399,295 in spending cuts, including the use of attrition and restructuring of several BOCES services.
Two days after the budget proposal was defeated at the polls, the CCSD Board of Education reviewed new recommendations from the district. Ultimately, the board adopted the revised budget proposal, which is at the district’s calculated tax levy limit of 4.02 percent and includes a reduction of $399,604 compared to the rejected proposal.
According to a message from Superintendent Christopher DiFulvio to the CCSD community, the district will reduce
the budget by $399,604 by cutting a reading teacher and an instructional coach and making reductions to athletics and technology. In addition, the district has fewer participating employees in its health insurance, which results in a cost reduction.
Because the revised budget does not exceed the tax levy limit, it required a simple majority vote — 50 percent + 1 — for authorization rather than the supermajority — 60 percent or more — needed for the original budget proposal to pass.
If voters had rejected the revised proposal, state law would have required the district to enact a contingency budget, requiring an additional $885,248 in cuts.
“We’re thankful to the community for passing this revised budget and supporting
our schools,” DiFulvio said in the message. “It was a difficult budget season, and we’re thankful for everyone who has been involved throughout the process. Although we need to make some reductions under this revised budget, we will continue to provide our students with the best educational experience possible. We’re looking forward to the year ahead.”
To learn more about CCSD, visit cazenoviacsd.com.
Anyone not directly affiliated with CCSD can sign up for the ParentSquare Community Group to receive newsletters and other information. Sign up at parentsquare.com/ community_signups/94dc9c19-0570-4ecdbd7a-868cb499bc46/new.
Close contest leads to manual recount of the Village of Cazenovia election
By kAtE Hill Staff Writer
Village of Cazenovia voters went to the polls on Tuesday, June 18, to elect two members to the village board of trustees for two-year terms.
Four candidates ran for the two open seats.
Incumbent trustee Katherine Hahn (Democratic) sought reelection to her position. She has served as the village’s water and fire commissioner since her
election in June 2022.
Newcomers Jennifer Marotto Lutter (Caz Forward), Kelly Ryan Vidakovic (Republican, Your Neighborhood Voice), and Colton Mennig (Democratic, Strong Community) ran to fill the seat vacated by Maureen Fellows, who was elected to the board in June 2016 and served as deputy mayor, village police commissioner, and court liaison.
After the election, the Madison County Board of Elections (BOE) posted the unofficial results on its website at madi -
soncounty.ny.gov/2128/2024-ElectionResults.
The BOE reported that Lutter received 246 total votes, Hahn received 217 votes, Vidakovic received 208, and Mennig received 134.
On June 19, the BOE announced that there would be a manual recount due to the close contest between Hahn and Vidakovic.
New York State Election Law requires an automatic recount if the margin of victory is 0.5 percent or less.
The BOE scheduled the recount for Monday, June 24, at 1 p.m.
The Cazenovia Republican will report on the election results once they have been made official.
The Village of Cazenovia Board of Trustees typically meets on the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the village municipal building at 90 Albany St. To learn more about the Village of Cazenovia and the board of trustees, visit villageofcazenovia.co m
Submitted photoS on June 22, Cazenovia Central school District celebrated its graduating seniors during a ceremony at the high school.
Caz Rowing Club Pancake Breakfast fundraiser returns to Lakeland Park
By kAtE Hill Staff Writer
The Cazenovia Rowing Club (CRC) will present its annual pancake breakfast on July 4 in Lakeland Park from 8 a.m. to noon. The breakfast offerings are sausage, plain and blueberry pancakes, coffee and juice.
Attendees can also try out a rowing machine and enter raffles for items donated by local businesses.
Breakfast is $10 for adults, $6 for children, and $30 for a family of four (two adults and two children).
“Our pancake breakfast has become a Fourth of July tradition for so many families in Cazenovia,” said CRC Co-President Carlie Hansonin a June 20 press release. “. . . This is our only fundraising event of the year. We truly appreciate all the support the community has shown us over the 20 years we have been running this event.”
Proceeds from the event will go towards maintaining the club’s boats and other equipment that helps keep the crews safe while on the water.
According to Hanson, the club has eight rowing shells — two 8+, two 4+, two doubles, and a couple of singles.
It also maintains a motorized launch used for teaching; docks; and an equipment shed for storing oars, cox boxes, and
safety equipment.
“We have eight ergs that are used by various members at their homes since we no longer have a ‘boathouse’ to train in during inclement weather and winter,” said Hanson. “We hope to raise $3,000 through the pancake breakfast and raffle to offset this year’s operating costs and to help us keep our membership dues low.”
As of June 19, CRC had 48 members; 18 of whom joined during the club’s Learn to Row workshop earlier this month.
“It’s a great year when we can fill two 8+ boats with novices,” said Hanson.
The Learn to Row event, which had 35 people in attendance, enabled adults from the greater Cazenovia community to learn the components of the rowing stroke, get familiarized with the terminology used in the boat, and spend time on the water with experienced rowers.
CRC is a recreational and competitive club that provides rowing opportunities for community members of all experience levels. The non-profit organization is a member of the United States Rowing Association. It operates with oversight from the Town of Cazenovia and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Central Region.
All donations to CRC are tax deductible. To learn more about the club, visit cazrow.org.
New Woodstock Regional Historical Society announces summer concerts
The New Woodstock Regional Historical Society celebrates summer with concerts to be held in the gazebo at Heritage Park, Rt. 80 in the hamlet of New Woodstock.
The gazebo will be host to a variety of musical genres with local area favorites throughout the summer.
The summer series sponsored by the New Woodstock Historical Society kicks off on Friday, June 14 at 6:30 p.m.
Arc Madison-Cortland receives grant
New Woodstock Regional Historical Society 2024 Concerts in Heritage Park
Friday, June 28, 6:30 p.m.: Loren Barrigar Friday, July 12, 6:30 p.m.: The Cazenovia Community Band Friday, Aug. 2, 6:30 p.m.: The Neverly Brothers Saturday, Aug. 10, 6:30 p.m.: Real time DixieLand Band
The local sponsors supporting the performances include Cunningham Trucking and Excavation, and Limestone Creek Real Estate (Hagen, Dewan, Burrell), The complete schedule is listed below. All events are free.
The Arc Madison Cortland, a not-forprofit organization supporting people with disabilities in Central New York, has been awarded a grant from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services, supporting the agency’s Corporate Guardianship program. NYSARC administers supplemental needs trusts and pooled trusts that can make dramatic improvements to those living with disabilities by enabling them to maintain eligibility for public benefits programs, such as Medicaid and SSI. NYSARC Trust Services is proud to fulfill its commitment in 2024 to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by awarding a total of $2,697,508 in grants to NYSARC chapters statewide.
This year, The Arc Madison Cortland received $27,800 to provide Corporate Guardianship services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. Supported by chapter staff and community volunteers, The Arc Madison Cortland Corporate Guardianship program currently provides supports and services to five people and is ready to assist three more as a standby or alternate standby guardian. To learn more about The Arc Madison Cortland and all of its services, visit arcofmc. org or follow @arcofmcny on social media.
Cazenovia High School Class of 2004 plans reunion
The Cazenovia High School’s class of 2004 20year reunion will be held
form 5 to 9 p m on July 5 at Meier’s Creek, 33 rippleton road, Cazenovia Contact Doug Campbell at
Last summer, the community really pitched in. More than 500 families contributed to the Fireworks Fund! The results were spectacular - our most exciting fireworks ever! Again this year We are counting on your help. Like last year, your contributions will be used exclusively to cover the cost of the fireworks show. In short, it’s up to you!
need support from your family to keep alive the great tradition of July 4th fireworks! Fireworks Fund, P.O. Box 83 Cazenovia, NY 13035 All Contributors Will Be Printed in the Cazenovia Republican
Scouts recognized during year-end court of honor
By kAtE Hill Staff Writer
On June 13, Cazen -
ovia’s Scouts BSA Troop 18 Boys & Girls (B&G) wrapped up a successful year of scouting with a court of honor recognizing the achievements of several of its members.
In Scouts BSA, a court of honor is a formal troop ceremony where scouts, joined by their families, come together to receive rank advancements, merit badges, and other awards and acknowledgments.
Among those recognized on June 13 was Micah Hamm, who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout this year and received the Tom Arnold Award for Service and Participation.
Also acknowledged were two senior scouts, Anjali Eastman-Persaud and Esther Hamm, who recently received a grant from the Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties to participate in leadership training offered by the Philmont High Adventure Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Both Scouts will be participating in various programs this summer and then taking that training and teaching at a local leadership scouting event in August.
“The scouts BSA program continues to serve area youth in a variety of ways, including leadership, outdoor skills, camaraderie, and developing a sense of community mindedness,” said Troop 18 Committee Chair Ramona Persaud. “Today’s scouts are tomorrow’s leaders.”
According to Persaud, Troop 18 consists of separate male and female troops. Members of Troop 18B and Troop 18G participate in the same co-ed activities but have different senior patrol leaders and adult scoutmasters.
Scoutmasters are responsible for being good mentors and role models, providing the youth leaders with the tools and skills they need to run the troop, offering guidance and support, and giving the scouts the space to “fail in a controlled environment.”
Over the past year, Troop 18’s adventures included a fall “Camporee” with scouts from across the northeast and Canada; Scout orienteering at Highland Forest County Park; a survival campout where scouts honed essential skills such as fire building, cooking, and shelter building; a caving trip
Troop 18 welcomed five new members who crossed over from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA. Additionally, the troop introduced its recently elected senior patrol leaders, patrol leaders, and the rest of the fall 2024 youth leadership team.
in the Adirondacks; and a winter campout with a well-timed snowfall that allowed the scouts to try snow kayaking and cross country skiing, practice snow shelter building, and build snow sculptures.
The troop was also involved in various service activities, including its fall “Scouting for Food” initiative to support lo -
cal food banks, village clean-ups, and helping with the Cazenovia Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt.
“[The scouts] pick the activities they want to do, and we are kind of just along for the ride,”
said Troop 18G Scoutmaster Colleen Combs.
“They get to make mistakes, and unless there is a [major] safety issue, we just step back and let them roll with it. It’s pretty awesome and really impressive.” According to Troop 18B Scoutmaster Don Arnold, the troop’s new leadership team will meet over the summer to build relationships, get
July 3 - Teddy Bear Parade @ Memorial Park, 10:30am
July 3 - Drag Queen Bingo, hosted by Cazenovia Pride @ Meier’s Creek, 7-9pm
July 4th Events: -Pancake Breakfast @ Lakeland Park, 8am-12pm -51st Annual Cazenovia July 4th Footrace, 5k, 10 mile and Kids Fun Run @Cazenovia High School, 8-9am -Parade lines up @ Caz High School, 12:30pm -Red, White, and Brews @ Meier’s Creek Brewing, 12-9:30pm -Fireworks presented by the Cazenovia Lions Club, 9pm
July 5 - Route 66 playing live @ Madison County Distillery, 5-8pm
July 6 - Comedy Night @ Madison County Distillery, 6-9pm
July 6 - Lavender Fest 2024 @ Farmstead 1868, 10am-4pm
July 6 - Dave Novak Band playing live @ Critz Farms, 5-8pm
July 12 - Artist Reception “Human Nature” with Bob Ripley and Dave Eichorn @ Cazenovia Artisans, 6-8pm
July 13 - The Carley’s playing live @ Critz Farms, 5-8pm
July 19-21 - Lorenzo Driving Competition @ Lorenzo State Historic Site, 8am-5pm
July 20 - Sydney Irving & The Mojo Splaying playing live @ Madison County Distillery, 5-8pm
July 20 - Saturday Stewardship Workday with CPF @ St Peter’s Church Parking Lot, 8-11am
July 20 - Count Blastula playing live @ Critz Farms, 5-8pm
July 21 - Yoga on the Terrace @ Meier’s Creek Brewing, 10:30-11:30am
July 24 - Walks ’n Talks Kids’ Discovery Series w/ CPF: Crepuscular Creatures @ Burlingame Trail Parking Lot, 7:30pm
July 25 - Trail Work Thursday w/ CPF @ St Peters Church parking lot, 4:30-6:30pm
July 25 - Syracuse Orchestra @ Lorenzo State Historic Site, 7:30pm
July 27 - Open Farm Day @ Madison County Farms, 10am-4pm Yoga Classes: Tuesdays - St. James Church, 6-7pm Sundays - Yoga On The Docks @ The Brewster Inn, 9:30am
Every Monday: 261 Fearless Running Group @ High School Green, 6-7pm
Every Saturday:
Cazenovia Farmers Market @ Memorial Park, 9am-2pm Sensory Saturdays @ Rippleton Schoolhouse, 1-3pm
Kate hill
on June 13, Cazenovia’s scouts BsA troop 18 Boys & Girls held a year-end court of honor to recognize the achievements of several of its members.
comfortable in their roles, and begin planning for the upcoming year.
“They’ll start planning [what] merit badges they want to work on, what kind of themes they want to [have for] the different months, where they want
to go camping,” Arnold said. “All of that is planned at the youth level. Then our job as adult leaders is to try to help make that happen.”
When asked to share their favorite things about Scouting, the troop’s senior scouts highlighted the friendships and opportunities to hike, backpack,
BENEDICT TREE REMOVAL
camp, spend time outdoors, explore different places, and learn and use new skills.
“What I really like about Scouts is the communication skills it teaches you,” said Hamm. “Being able to communicate really helps out in tons of other areas in life as you are growing up.”
Will Shafer remarked about the widespread and lasting community Scouts BSA offers its members.
“Scouts just kind of bond to scouts,” Shafer said. “It’s like sticking two piec -
es of duct tape together; they’re never going to come apart. Scouts are always together. Anywhere you go, if you find another Scout, you’ll be able to connect with them, even if they are 80 years old and were in Scouts many years ago. It’s a big community across the whole country.”
Youths interested in Scouting are invited to the troop’s final meeting of the year on June 20. Troop 18 meets on Thursdays at 7 p.m. on Riverside Drive in Cazenovia and is open to ages 11 and up.
nellie E. Johnson, 94
Taught music
Nellie Elizabeth (Cook) Johnson, 94, peacefully passed away the evening of June 15, 2024, at the Eastern Star Home in Oriskany, N.Y. Born in Cazenovia, she was raised on her family’s dairy farm, CS Cook and Sons. Nellie graduated several schools, including Cazenovia High School, Ithaca College and the State College of Albany. She was previously married to Richard H. Johson, and had three children, Timothy, Nancy and Stephen. Nellie’s passion and talent for music, lead her to become a music teacher for over 30 years in both the Oppenheim Ephratah and Greater Johnstown School Districts.
In addition to teaching, she was employed as an organist and choir director for local churches, provided piano lessons and participated in many musical organi-
Martha Wason
Wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother
Martha Dolan Wason passed away peacefully the morning of June 15, 2024. Born to parents
Marjorie Joy Dolan and T. Frank Dolan, Jr., in 1928, Martha and her four siblings were extremely close and enjoyed many happy times together over the years, including summers with their families at the “camps” on Cazenovia Lake.
A proud graduate of both the Goodyear-Burlingame School (1946) and Marymount College in Tarrytown, NY (1950), she went on to business school and attended art classes, a pursuit at which she excelled.
OBITUARIES
zations within her community.
Upon retirement, Nellie moved back to the Cazenovia area, to be closer to family, where she continued to pursue her musical interests. She also joined the Order of the Eastern Star, where she was asked to be grand musician on several occasions.
Nellie enjoyed sewing, reading, doing crossword puzzles, sitting on her porch in the sun and spending time among friends and family, especially with her children and grandsons.
Nellie was predeceased by her parents, Chauncey Cook and Laura Lieurance Cook, her siblings Hobert Cook and David Cook, and her oldest son, Timothy Johnson. She is survived by her son, Stephen Johnson of Syracuse, and her daughter, Nancy Jones (David), along with two grandsons, Jesse Hill (Jennifer) and Lucas Hill (Hannah), and five grandchildren,
nics on the porch and holiday gatherings around the dining room table. Martha was the consummate hostess, taking great care to ensure everyone had a good time. Martha was a former member of the Junior League, which led her to volunteer work at Meals on Wheels, the Blood Bank, senior programs at the Corinthian Club’s Carriage House and Cazenovia’s Friendly Visitor Program. She was also a devoted communicant of St. James Church in Cazenovia.
In 1953 she married Jay Ward Wason, Sr., of Schenectady, in a double ceremony with her beloved sister Susan Moran (Richard). Throughout the 59 years of their marriage, she and Jay created a welcoming home, gathering family and friends for polo matches, Syracuse University football parties, family reunions, summer pic-
Barbara J. thurston raised strong grandchildren
Barbara Jean Thurston, born Feb. 1, 1931, in Fenner, passed on June 13, 2024, comfortably at her residence in Cazenovia. Well known as Barb, Ma, GMa and GiGi, she always brought laughter and enjoyment to people around her.
She is survived by her grandson, Jeremey Sellen and wife, Alison Sellen with two great-grandsons, Owen and Austin Sellen; granddaughter, Jessica Wheeler and partner, Matthew Magee with two great granddaughters, Elizabeth Wheeler and Sarenity Magee; along with some amazing friends that were more like family.
Barb was a strong willed, stubborn minded, kind, loving and large-hearted soul that made memorable impacts in many people’s lives. May she rest in peace knowing she raised strong grandchildren along with imprinting countless hearts.
A calling hour was held from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, June 20, with services following at Michael E. Brown Funeral Services, 2333 Fenner Road in Cazen-
Martha was predeceased by her husband Jay, sons Edward and Robert Wason, grandson Trevor Tormey, and sisters Jane Eldert, Faith Hopkins and Susan Moran. She is survived by her brother, Thomas F. Dolan III (Jamie); daughter, Marjie Tormey of Cazenovia; sons, Jay Wason, Jr. of Henderson, N.Y., (Sara) and Charles Wason of Park City, Utah (Monica); eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many close cousins, nieces and nephews and caring friends. Martha’s greatest joy was her family
ovia. Burial was in Erieville Cemetery in Erieville. Condolences for Barbara’s family may be left at michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.
Peyton, Stella, Casey, Knox and Cooper, all of Bradenton, Fl. She is also survived by her two sisters-in-law, Ilse Cook (Hobert) and Eleanor Cook (David), and former husband, Richard Johnson (Dorothy).
The family is incredibly grateful for the staff at the Eastern Star Home, for the exceptional care, patience, and kindness provided for Nellie.
A Celebration of Life (The Order of the Eastern Star service included) will be held for Nellie Johnson at 10 a.m. on Aug. 10 at the Chapel on the Eastern Star Campus (8290 RT 69, Oriskany, NY). A calling hour will be held prior to the service from 9-10 a.m. Contributions in her memory may be made to the OES Foundation, 1400 Utica St. Pounder Hall, Rm 106, Oriskany NY 13424. Ayer & Zimmer Funeral Home, Cazenovia, had arrangements; 315-655-8101.
nellie E. Johnson
and friends, and she spent considerable time cultivating and nurturing those relationships. She maintained frequent contact with loved ones through phone calls and heartfelt letters, which smelled of her favorite perfume and were often embellished with underlining and exclamation points. She was a class act and set a wonderful example that will be felt for generations. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
The family wishes to acknowledge her daughter Marjie, grandson Tiernen and caregiver Elda Smith for their loving and gentle care, allowing her to pass with dignity in her home surrounded by her loved
“Grip size is the most important element related to grips and it is a signi cant component of a properly t set of clubs”. Graig Zimmerman said that a few years ago. Graig is the GM of the RedTail Golf Center in Beaverton, Oregon, as well as a regular pick on Golf Digest’s list of America’s Best Club Fitters. Graig also said, “Grip size is o en overlooked or an a erthought of the tting process and the wrong grip size can have a substantial impact on how clubs perform”. Zimmermen’s “team” at RedTail also developed a chart they call,”Total Hand Size”. eir chart measures the distance from the rst crease of the wrist to the tip of a golfer’s longest nger and the length of a player’s longest nger as a static starting point.
ere are a few things about the size of grips we should be using that are “almost” universally accepted by the best club tters in the U.S. and we shouldn’t ignore them. For example:
* Most of the time, larger grips (midsize or larger) can help players who are struggling with a hook.
* Smaller grips can help a player who is ghting a slice to help the hands to release more e ciently to square the club face at impact.
* A player with a large hand size may have less face awareness with a grip that is too small which causes a player to have excessive grip pressure. Conversely, increasing the grip size should be recommended to o set over-rotating the face.
* Larger grip sizes are used for someone who closes the face too much….such as Bryson DeChambeau, Tony Finau and Bubba Watson who play jumbo or larger grips to prevent their hands from over-rotating.
* Playing with so er grips will probably help golfers with hand injuries or arthritis or even those who don’t want to wear a glove.
* So er grips are usually not recommend for better players because it is not bene cial for consistency under pressure.
* Most average golfers should pay more attention to playing with the correct grip size because they can be very important to develop a foundation of consistency.
John Hutzler of “Swing t” in Virginia, another one of America’s Best Club tters says, “If I were a betting man, I might go as far as to say that grip ttings will become the next hottest trend. It’s just that important and when compared to buying a brand-new golf club,
ones. Services and burial will be private. Donations may be made in Martha’s name to Wanderers’ Rest Humane Association, 7138 Sutherland Dr., Canastota, NY 13032 or online at wanderersrest.org, CNY SPCA, 5878 East Molloy Rd., Syracuse, NY 13211 or online at cnyspca.org; Hospice of CNY and of the Finger Lakes, 990
it’s not a bad way to breathe new life into your clubs at a very small cost”. What do golf grip manufactures have to say about how new grips a ect the distance you hit a golf ball?
According to Golf Pride, the largest grip manufacturer in the world, their research team discovered that…ball speed increases 1.3 MPH resulting in a 2.3 yard increase in distance. at certainly may not be far enough to feel con dent you can carry a water hazard 180 yards away, however it does instill a little excitement in your thought process to become more con dent. Golf Pride‘s research also determined that only 20% of golfers re-grip their clubs the recommended once annually. With regard to players with a handicap of 5 or below, 82% reported that new grips felt “secure to very secure” in their hands. When using warn grips, only 24% said they had the same sensation.
How o en should we be re-griping our golf clubs?
Golf Pride’s Graig Watson recommends that regulars who play at least once a week, should replace their grips at the start of every golf season.
* I totally disagree with this one. If someone played 2-3 times every week and washed their grips with soap and water once a month, there is no reason why their grips should not last a minimum of 2-2.5 seasons.
What are the best grips on the market?
* Golf Monthly independently took a look at some of the best golf grips currently available .
Martha Wason
Barbara J. thurston
OuR vOiCE
Feeling the heat
The past week we saw temperatures begin to climb with the City of Syracuse reporting hitting 100 degree and real feel temperatures in some places exceeding the 100 degrees mark.
The temperatures were so intense some schools adjusted their schedules to give students a chance to get out before the heat became more intense.
While this was the first wave of the higher sort of temperatures that many associate and some even welcome during the summer months, it is likely we still have plenty of warm days ahead.
With this in mind it is important to keep in mind how the heat, even when not the intense heat of 100 degrees or more, can have an effect on our health.
According to the American Heart Association as the temperature rises, so can your risk for suffering health issues like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Doctors recommend using good judgment when it comes to activities outside in the heat, and that you stay hydrated.
The Heart Association recommends that during hot days everyone keep a few guidelines in mind.
According to the Heart Association it is best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon, about noon to 3 p.m., because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
Dressing for the heat is also important.
According to the Heart Association most people probably sweat the most in their shoes, so choose well-ventilated shoes and look for socks that repel perspiration. Foot powders and antiperspirants can also help with sweat.
It is also recommended that people wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or a newer fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and/or sunglasses. Before you get started, apply a waterresistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply it every two hours.
Staying hydrated is also vitally important.
It is recommended that people drink a few cups of water before, during and after exercise and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages which can lead to dehydration.
If you are outside, take regular breaks and find a shady or cool place to rest and re-hydrate if possible.
If you do have heart or other medical concerns, follow your doctor’s recommendations.
It is also important to know the signs of when you are reaching a point of being too hot.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include, headaches, heavy sweating, cold, moist skin, dizziness or fainting (syncope), a weak and rapid pulse, muscle cramps, fast, shallow breathing and nausea, vomiting or both.
If you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place, stop exercising and cool down immediately by dousing yourself with cold water and rehydrating. You may need to seek medical attention.
Heat stroke includes symptoms like warm, dry skin with no sweating, strong and rapid pulse, confusion and/or unconsciousness, high fever, throbbing headaches and nausea, vomiting or both.
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
For more information, tips and advice on how to take care of your heart, visit heart.or g And if you are traveling, keep in mind children, older individuals and pets that may be in the vehicle with you. If possible it is best to leave pets at home. As temperatures can soar in a parked car, even with the windows open or tinted windows, it is best to leave anyone who might not want to or be able to leave the car at home as well for their own safety.
CAfé CrEAtEs CArinG CoMMunity
Alzheimer’s is a frightening word. It’s a real word attached to real people. The numbers of people so affected by the disease, patient and caregiver alike, are staggering. It’s a significant issue with far reaching costs not only to those affected but to the society at large.
Even the newest medications are insufficient to make much of an impact on the inevitable when it comes to dementia. Leqembi and Donanemab are designed to eliminate specific configurations in the brain, known as plaques and tangles. But speak to any researcher and they will tell you that no one is sure that these neurological anomalies are the cause of the disease. They correlate, but that only means that they are found in the brains of those so diagnosed. They are also in the brains of those without the malady. The new drugs, monoclonal antibodies, are proteins that target specific sites on a cell and are said to slow down the progression of the disease in about a third of that population. They are not cures, but they are something.
Treatment beyond these medications is a rag bag of personal attention and the holy trinity of recommendations relating to nutrition, exercise and social interaction - basically the same advice you receive for most illnesses.
Enabling the Alzheimer’s patient to live with dignity and comfort falls to the caregivers, most often family members who, facing a steep learning curve, have to navigate the moment-to-moment changes in cognition that are evidenced by the patient. In effect, Alzheimer’s affects both the patient and the caregiver. The everyday world is not set up to accommodate the needs of the Alzheimer’s patient. The world goes on without them as cognitive connections are lost. But there are organizations…
Motorcycle riders have a community as do bird watchers and people who think the moon is made of cheese. Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers have associated support groups, usually connected with the Alzheimer’s association or a medical facility. These are problem solving, resource finding groups that build a resource base for the care of the patient and the caregivers. By their very nature, they provide important social connections as well
CORNELL iN THE COMMuNiTy
Ferro
as support for both the patient and the caregiver. Come along with me and see what else – that is both caring and life affirming - is available. Let’s go to the Memory Café. No special attire required. Come as you are. Truly.
Based on an international template invented in the Netherlands, there are over a thousand cafes in the United States. Locally, Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church in Dewitt adopted the concept and implementation of a Memory Café as its outreach program. The “café” meets on the second Wednesday of the month in the church hall. A dedicated group of parishioners plans and executes a warm, welcoming social program that invites the dementia patient and caregiver to have an hour and a half of relaxation and fun.
Quoting from their brochure, “As one caregiver put it … ‘this is the only place we can come where I too can relax because I know everyone is in the same situation.’ We often hear that people who couldn’t imagine they would like such an event are surprised at how much fun they have. Once they join us, they keep coming back.”
Each month’s café presents the guests with a homemade light lunch, snacks, beverages, humorous stories, birthday and anniversary wishes, a sing along and entertainment. Two months ago, the guests were entertained by an hysterically funny skilled magician (and I hate magicians) who once was the opening act at Three Rivers Inn for some of the most famous entertainers of our times. This month we enjoyed the talents of a brass quartet of trombones that rocked the room with contemporary nostalgia.
Let me take you to our table last Wednesday. The luncheon tables, decorated appropriately for the season, encouraged conversations among the guests. These conversations flow! We talked of our former occupations, people whom with whom we’ve worked, our families, doctors, summers in and around Syracuse, restaurants that are no longer here and downtown Syracuse in the 1950s and 60s. There were no shy guests when it came to the sing along. The entire room stood and applauded the brass quartet. They were fabulous.
The Memory Café is a catalytic setting that
CCE welcomes new educator
Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Madison County is thrilled to announce the addition of Anna Hardiman as its new environment and nature educator.
Hardiman brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for environmental education and conservation to the team.
She grew up in northern New York, where her love for the natural world was nurtured through exploring forests, ponds, and her family garden. Active in St. Lawrence County 4-H throughout her school years, she developed a strong foundation in community engagement and environmental stewardship early on.
She pursued her academic interests in environmental biology and global studies at Houghton University. Furthering her education, she earned a master’s in natural resources conservation from Paul Smith’s College.
Here, her dedication to promoting sustainable ecological and human communities was solidified.
Her professional journey has taken her to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes, including the Adirondacks, the St. Lawrence River region, Wyoming, and Maine. Her diverse experience spans environmental education, aquatic fieldwork, invasive species management, and parks and recreation.
“I am excited to join CCE Madison and contribute to the healthy and happy future of this vibrant county,” Hardiman said. “I look forward to engaging with the community and working together to foster a greater appreciation and understanding of our natural environment.”
At CCE Madison, Hardiman will lead initiatives to educate and inspire the community about environmental conservation and sustainable practices, as well as help youth connect with the natural world around them.
Her role will include developing educational programs, leading community outreach efforts, and collaborating with local organizations to promote environmental stewardship.
“Responding to community need, prioritizing environment and sustainability education is a key strategy in our 2023 Strategic Plan,” said board of directors president Erick Haas. “We are thrilled to have Anna on board to launch this new direction for CCE Madison.”
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enables you to feel the normal that you are, whatever, wherever that may be.
The success of Memory Café has inspired the Onondaga Public Library to offer its own version Memory Cafés at the Hazard and the Betts Branch libraries. We attended the Hazard Branch this morning and learned about the history of McCarthur stadium. The guests were eager to share their baseball stories from being promised a day off at school if the Dodgers won the series to meeting some of the Toronto Blue Jays at McArthur. We will attend the Betts branch Memory Café next week, looking forward to the special therapy that these gatherings provide. The library is eager to provide experiences that copy the success of the Dewitt site.
The “treatment” for the Alzheimer’s patient, or any patient diagnosed with dementia, focuses on support for the strengths that remain. Social interaction, the feeling of belonging, for either patient or caregiver, is just what the doctor ordered. It is reaching across the barriers of loss to the places of the self, elevating the importance of an essential humanity which always remains, no matter the loss.
Alzheimer’s is a complicated disease involving a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect the brain over time. Bravo to the giant pharmaceutical companies that are investigating the causes of Alzheimer’s and working on diagnostic tests, producing medications that can slow down the decline or finding a cure. But in the here and now it is the actions of a few who see the value of the person as they are, as they are becoming, to offer these islands of time and fun that recall the words of Margaret Mead, “Never underestimate the power of a small, dedicated group of people to change the world; indeed, that is the only thing that ever has.”’ Contact information : Pebble Hill Presbyterian, Tim Frazee, 315-446-0961. syracusememorycafe.com. OCPL: 315-4351900, OCPL MemoryCafe@Hazard, OCPL MemoryCafe@Betts,
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.
Years Ago in History
By CinDy BEll toBEy
35 years Ago – June 27, 1989
Three local artists have volunteered to donate their time and talent to provide a drawing of each of the locations in the “Walk in the Wild” series sponsored by Cazenovia Preservation Foundation (CPF). The three drawings will be the grand prizes at the conclusion of the CPF program in September. Neil Waters, Laurie Selleck and Richard English are the three artists who are participating.
The drawings will be offered as prizes for the three of the people who complete one or all of the nature walks included in CPF’s Explore Cazenovia program, which begins on Earth Day. The three sites included in the program are Fairchild Hill, Carpenter’s Pond and the Gorge Trail. Tom Vogt, CPF stewardship chairman, said, “Those who complete all or one of the walks and have received their pin or pins designating the completion of each, are to turn in their registration form at the Cazenovia Library.” To date more than 500 pins have been handed out to people completing one or more of the walks.
25 years Ago – June 23, 1999
The Greater Cazenovia Area Chamber of Commerce (GCACC) announced its summer program, Cazenovia Cruisin.’ Beginning this Wednesday evening, and continuing every Wednesday until Oct. 27, the village will have a classic car night. Classic cars of all vintage will gather on Albany Street. The event is a project of the Historic Business District Committee. It is organized by a cruisin’ committee chaired by Fred Jung, a classic car buff and owner of a ’57 T-bird.
“Just imagine the joy of a summer evening in Cazenovia, strolling down Albany Street, and feeling like you have gone back to the ‘30’s, 40’s, 50’s or 60’s, when a car meant much more to us than mere transportation.”
15 years Ago – June 24, 2009
Cazenovia resident Brad Wheler’s new book entitled “Snappy Sayings” has been called illuminating and entertaining.
The book is “a book to be tasted or sipped, much like one might pour oneself a small after-dinner drink from a bar stocked with hundreds of exotic liqueurs,” said Jay Walker, the founder of Priceline.com and Walker Digital. “Snappy Saying: Wit & Wisdom from the Word’s Greatest Minds” was released by Book Collaborative.com. The book includes 22 chapters compiling the words of over 350 historical figures.
4 years Ago – June 24, 2020
On June 20, Meier’s Creek Brewing Company (MCBC) released its first three beers to the public through its “beer-to-go” program.
Available for pickup only, the brewery’s new offerings include a blonde ale, a hazy IPA and a sour. MCBC is one of more than 400 craft breweries in New York State.
“It’s no secret that Central New York and the Upstate New York region have some incredible craft breweries – many that honor what it means to be from this region through the use of local ingredients and injecting NYS pride into every aspect of their offerings,” said Lela Feldmeier, head of brand and creative for the brewery. “This is something that we hope to continue.”
According to Feldmeier, MCBC is set apart by its desire to continuously innovate and discover “what’s next” in the craft beer industry.
Ramblings from the empty nest ann
Anna Hardiman
CCSD holds school merger presentation after Morrisville-Eaton request
By kAtE Hill Staff Writer
On June 20, the Cazenovia Central School District (CCSD) hosted a community presentation on district mergers, also known as reorganization. The event was held in response to Morrisville-Eaton Central School District’s request that CCSD consider a merger study in light of updated financial incentives from New York State.
Cornell University professor and researcher John Sipple, Ph.D., volunteered his time and expertise to present “School District Reorganization: Enrollment Decline and Community Vitality in Cazenovia.”
Sipple, who studies how public schools and communities adapt to different policies and challenges, was introduced by Superintendent Christopher DiFulvio.
“[Dr. Sipple] will help us navigate and understand the complex topic of school district reorganization, an issue that undoubtedly brings mixed feelings to many of us here,” DiFulvio said. “We recognize that the idea of merging comes with its share of concerns and uncertainties. Yet, it’s crucial that we continue to explore all avenues to preserve and enhance the educational programming for our students. Our recent budget vote highlights the need to explore avenues to preserve programming. Thanks to the community, we have been able to maintain the vast majority of our vital programs. Our number one goal remains to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students.”
DiFulvio emphasized that no decisions have been made at this stage; the district’s primary objective is to perform due diligence and thoroughly assess whether a merger could benefit CCSD taxpayers and students.
As part of that process, CCSD sent letters to its neighboring districts to inquire about their interest in reorganization. Fayetteville-Manlius, Otselic Valley, and Canastota indicated that they are not interested. As of June 20, CCSD had not received official responses from DeRuyter, Fabius-Pompey, or Chittenango.
“Given the financial challenges we faced while developing the 2024-25 school budget, and with a projected state aid reduction looming for the 2025-26 school year, it would be irresponsible not to explore all options,” said DiFulvio. “The school district and the board of education owe it to our community to review all possible benefits and drawbacks that a merger might present. We represent your voice, the voice of our community. It is our responsibility to communicate the district’s needs and progress transparently and to engage with the public, our staff, and our students in the decision-making process.”
Sipple began his presentation by expressing that he had no intention of swaying attendees in favor or against merging; his goal was to share information.
He stated that, at this point, the CCSD community is not prepared to ask, “Should we merge?” Instead, the question should be, “Should Cazenovia move forward exploring underlying issues, the process of, and the
pros/cons of a potential merger?”
How did we get here?
Sipple outlined some trends in Cazenovia that help provide context for the recent conversations about reorganization.
He first showed a figure demonstrating a trend of declining enrollment from 1993-94 to 2022-23.
“I could show you 450 districts in New York State that have the same downward trends in enrollment,” he said. “This is happening all over the place.”
Sipple explained that people are having children later and having fewer children. Additionally, in some areas, the cost of living, the cost of housing, the cost of childcare, and the cost of healthcare have gotten so high that people cannot afford to live there unless they are retired or have gotten to a point in their career where they have the resources to move there with older children.
“There are communities all over the place that have trouble getting the next generation of parents and kids to come to the school districts,” he said.
Sipple also highlighted a trend of increasing property values in Cazenovia.
“You’ve got this dual phenomenon of having fewer kids around but also having property that is of greater value,” he said. “You have the lake here, a beautiful town, a wonderful school system, and it’s a desirable place to live. That raises property values. . . . All of a sudden, the State of New York looks at your district and says, ‘Oh, this is becoming a wealthier district. They’re wealthier than they were before.’ The state has one job, to allocate dollars in a fair way, and they give more money to poorer districts than wealthier districts.”
As the rate of increase in state aid slows, CCSD’s total expenses continue to rise, placing a greater burden on the local community to make up the difference. As a result, the tax rate for local taxpayers goes up.
Considering opportunities
Sipple encouraged the attendees to begin thinking broadly about the many directions the district could take to address the fiscal stress felt by the CCSD community and the trend of declining enrollment.
A few of the wide-ranging opportunities he presented were making small tweaks and efficiency improvements; merging administrations with another district; and merging two small high schools into one larger school while keeping the middle and elementary schools the same.
“There is no right or wrong here,” he said. “It’s whatever works best for this community and whoever your ‘dance partner’ is if you choose to go forward with a conversation about reorganization. If you choose to go at it [on] your own, then it’s just this community making some of these decisions. Think inside and outside the box. This is an opportunity to really do this kind of thinking. Often, we don’t get the opportunity to really think broadly.”
Sipple simplified CCSD’s options down to the following: maintaining the status quo, sharing additional services with other districts, using technology for virtual instruction to
expand program offerings, merging central administrations and school boards, or undergoing a comprehensive merger with a partner district.
“You control your destiny,” Sipple said. “If you make no changes, I guarantee your taxes will go up and you’ll have to cut services in the district. [I’m] sorry to say that, but if you do nothing, we know where this is going.”
Changes at the state level
According to Sipple, New York State created a new system this year to nearly double the reorganization incentive aid, or “bonus money,” offered to schools seeking to merge.
“They want to dangle money in front of districts to get them to merge,” he said. “They’ve done this for a long, long time, but whatever they were dangling last year didn’t get much of anybody’s attention, because nobody merged last year across the entire state.”
Before this year, reorganization incentive aid was based on 40 percent of the NYS foundation aid received by the merging districts in 2005-06.
The new system offers reorganization incentive aid based on 40 percent of the foundation aid from the prior year.
“They are letting you use last year’s foundation aid,” Sipple said. “That’s a much bigger number; the state is investing more in schools now than they were in 2005-06. The incentive — the dangling money — is much bigger now than it was.”
CCSD’s 2005-06 foundation aid was $4,006,121. Its 2023-24 foundation aid was $7,558,552.
The total first-year reorganization incentive aid is determined by adding the foundation aids for two or more merging districts and then calculating 40 percent of that combined number.
The aid is 40 percent per year for the first five years, after which the percentage is scaled down annually. By the 15th year after reorganization, the district’s incentive aid is zero.
Sipple presented a sample calculation of the reorganization incentive aid that a merged CCSD and Morrisville-Eaton district would receive. In total, the new district would gain $60,485,162 over 14 years.
“The state is offering — depending on the partner —$50 million to $70 million,” he said. “I’m not trying to [sway] anyone, it’s just a fact. The State of New York is doing this, and it’s not just you guys, they will offer this to any district that merges. “
Sipple also noted that if two or more districts decide to reorganize, the new merged district will receive the same total incentive aid whether it combines all the school buildings or none of the school buildings.
“You just have to create a new school district with a new board, and you get that money,” he said.
the reorganization process
According to Sipple, CCSD is in the “learn and listen and talk” stage of the lengthy, multi-step reorganization process.
This stage involves examining the causes of the district’s enrollment decline and educational and fiscal challenges. It also involves understanding all the factors driving
on
the district to seek change.
“Once you understand what [this reorganization] thing is, you could say, ‘Oh, I’m not really comfortable with that,’ or, ‘I didn’t have any idea what that was, now I understand so let’s explore a little more,” Sipple said.
If Cazenovia decides to continue looking into reorganization, the next steps are to evaluate potential merger partners and create different reorganization scenarios.
“Once you agree with a partner and you have a scenario you want to move forward with, then the state gets involved in this process,” said Sipple. To move forward, both boards of education must independently vote in favor of the plan.
The next vote is for the public. Both communities conduct separate straw votes.
“That’s kind of to gauge community interest and make sure everyone knows what is going on,” Sipple explained. “. . . If both communities vote ‘yes,’ you go to a real binding vote. [So,] the community has to actually vote twice on this. It’s a long process to make sure you are [willing] to do this. There is plenty of time for conversation and re-exploring options and scenarios.”
If both communities vote affirmatively, the reorganization occurs, and a new board of education is established for the new district.
Sipple noted that another key part of the merger process is a comprehensive merger study, which is used to develop information that describes how a specific combination of districts would operate if reorganization occurred. The study would consider administrative staffing changes and board structure; transportation; food service; instructional programming and BOCES use; scheduling; extracurricular activities; building use; tax rates; potential savings; and costs. According to Sipple, different committees work on the study, and students, the public, and staff have many opportunities to get involved.
Exploring reorganization: for students and the community
“Most people who will come in and talk to you about reorganization say, ‘If there is ever a decision that you are having a hard time making, it should always be made for the best interest of the children in our community,’” said Sipple. “I’m not going
to argue with that at all, but what I would say is if you think of the children only and don’t think of the wellbeing of the broader community — you don’t think of strengthening your community [and making it] a place people may want to move to, bring their families to, [buy] an affordable house in, get some childcare in — [you] might end up in the same place ten years from now that you are in right now.”
Sipple continued by stating that mergers can reduce tax rates and ease financial pressures; however, those benefits are temporary unless other changes are made that get at the root cause of the district’s current challenges.
“[The state incentive aid] is a lot of money,” he said. “That will lower your taxes, but if you just rest on that money and don’t work to make this an attractive place to get more kids, your high school is going to [continue shrinking].”
Sipple concluded his presentation by sharing a suite of tools he helped create for the NYS Education Data and Research Hub at Cornell University.
The free tools are available for public use at nyeducationdata.org.
The website’s “District Reorganizer Simulation Tool” visualizes the effects of merging two or more neighboring districts. In addition to calculating the reorganization incentive aid, it features enrollment totals, school district comparisons, and crude local revenue calculations.
Other tools on the website provide insight into enrollment; community wealth; graduation rates; and financial, performance, and demographic trends.
The presentation concluded with a brief question and answer session. One of the topics discussed was how reorganization enables the new district to receive increased state support for qualified building projects.
Attendees were encouraged to submit additional questions about Sipple’s presentation and reorganization to CCSD via a QR code or pen and paper. The questions will be compiled into a FAQ page with answers and posted on the district’s website, cazenoviacsd.com.
Anyone not directly affiliated with CCSD can sign up for the ParentSquare Community Group to receive newsletters and other information. Sign up at parentsquare.com/ community_signups/94dc9c19-05704ecd-bd7a-868cb499bc46/new.
SUDOKU
Kate hill
June 20, Cornell university professor and researcher John sipple, Ph.D. presented “school District reorganization: Enrollment Decline and Community vitality in Cazenovia” in the Cazenovia High school Auditorium.
PURPOSE: TEXT:
Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid
THE FILING OF A GENERAL INCREASE IN ELECTRIC RATES IN THE AMOUNT OF $525 MILLION AND GAS RATES IN THE AMOUNT OF $148 MILLION BASED ON THE TEST YEAR, TWELVE MONTHS ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2023.
Notice is hereby given that Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid (Company) has filed with the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) proposed tariff amendments to its PSC No. 220 and 214 Electric and 219 Gas tariffs. e Company is proposing an increase in base electric delivery rates of approximately $525 million and an increase in base gas delivery rates of approximately $148 million. e Company has filed for an effective date of July 3, 2024; however, the Company’s proposal is subject to suspension and review by the PSC. After suspension and review, the Company expects the base delivery increase to become effective on May 1, 2025.
Service Classification No. 12 – Distributed Generation Less than 250,000 therms per year
Service Classification No. 12 – Distributed Generation Greater than 250,000 but less than 1,000,000 therms per year
usage Current Rates Proposed First 3 therms or less $500.00 $575.00
3 therms, per therm (Apr to Oct) $0.05012 $0.07859
Over 3 therms, per therm (Nov to Mar) $0.06001 $0.08381
Service Classification No. 12 – Distributed Generation Greater than 1,000,000 but less than 2,500,000
Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid
e tables listed below show a comparison between the Company’s current rates and rates effective July 1, 2024. PURPOSE:
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Notice is hereby given that Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid has filed revised rates with the Public Service Commission to comply with the Commission’s order dated January 20, 2022. ese revised rates become effective July 1, 2024.
For more information, visit http://www.nationalgridus.com or the PSC’s website: https://dps.ny.gov/
Boys track and field celebrate season
According to Mark G. Evans Cazenovia boys outdoor varsity track and field head coach the outdoor boys track and field season weather was awful and it seemed to rain nine out of every 10 days.
Evans said the necessary facilities were non-existent at the start of the season due to the Cazenovia High School building project.
The team ran around the green in front of the school and eventually, when the fields dried out at Lakeside Park.
Evans said some makeshift field facili-
ties were built.
“The 42 student athletes that made up the boys varsity team persevered,” Evans said. “Despite these challenges, this past season was one of the most rewarding. Our young team had only one senior and consisted mainly of freshman and sophomores. There was raw talent and I knew that given quality workouts and encouragement, we would be successful.”
The end result was another sectional title.
“Our accomplishments included a 4
win,1 loss regular season - with the loss coming to a D-1 Auburn team, and a B-2 sectional championship,” Evans said. “The team finished second behind B-1 Marcellus in the league championship meet. The weather improved, the team started to click at invitationals, and everything fell into place. Our sectional performance was amazing and we out-distanced a field of 10 other schools winning our seventh consecutive sectional title - a proud moment and a sign of things to come for this young group of talented athletes.”
According to Evans, the team peeked at sectionals scoring points everywhere. The first place finishers included 4x800 relay (Eliot Comeau Caleb Gilmore, Tristan Field-Bradley, Jake Woolbert), 4x100 relay (Charlie Compeau, Braden Carnahan, Mike Harris, Wyatt Scott), open 400 (Tristian Field -Bradley), open 400 hurdles (Wyatt Scott), open 800 (Eliot Comeau), 4x400 relay (Eliot Comeau, Caleb Gilmore, Charlie Compeau, Tristan Field-Bradley) and high jump (Eliot Comeau). Track l Page 15
Boat cleaning station acquired by Cazenovia
The Village and Town of Cazenovia recently took possession of the CD3 cleaning station which will be a critically important tool in attempting to prevent damaging invasives from entering Cazenovia Lake at the village’s Lakeside Park Boat Launch.
The station has several useful tools, including an industrial vacuum, air hose and wand and a grabbing device to retrieve debris that is less accessible.
The unit is solar powered and will be stored by the Town of Cazenovia in the off season.
The cleaning station was made possible by The Invasive Species Grant Program through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The Town of Cazenovia covered a $10,030 matching portion of the grant.
The selection of this specific model was carefully reviewed over many months with representatives of the village and town boards and the Cazenovia Lake Association (CLA).
Any boat that has the required annual permit to use the Lakeside Park Boat Launch will be greeted by a launch steward and complete some basic information.
If the boat has the newly implemented security tag in place they are free to launch under the direction of the steward.
If there is no security tag, the steward will examine the boat, trailer and other areas where invasives can be present.
If all clean, the steward will permit the boat to launch.
If no security tag in place and the boat, trailer or essential accessories are not clean or show aquatic residue, the boat owner will be directed to the cleaning station area where the steward will watch the owner clean the suspect material until it meets the village’s standard.
The bottom line, and what has been demonstrated by almost everyone thus far this year is this; arrive with a clean boat, trailer and accessories and you will be able to access Cazenovia Lake in an expedited manner.
Anyone with questions is asked to contact the Thomas Tait at 315-6570473.
Submitted photo
From left, Fritz Koennwcke (CLA Board Member), Bill Neuland (Boat Steward), Jimmy Golub (Town Councilor, CLA Board), Bryan Smith (Town of Cazenovia Highway Superintendent), Dave Miller (CLA President) and Thomas Tait (Village Trustee and CLA Board Member) with the new boat cleaning station.
There were many second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth point scorers whose performances all helped secure the championship.
There were impressive individual accomplishments this year as well.
“Our 4x100 throwers relay team (Jack Macro, Jonathan Sweet, Aiden Jurgens and Matthew Tugaw) set a new school record of :49.20 seconds,”: Evans said. “We established a fleet of pentathlon athletes led by juniors Wyatt Scott, Connor Hopper and Matthew Tugaw. We brought a solid team of 15 student- athletes to the state qualifier meet on May 30th. Braden Carnahan led the way qualifying in 4 events including the long Jump, 110 hurdles, 400 hurdles, and leg two of the 4x100 relay team. Eliot Comeau (3 events) Wyatt Scott (3 events) Will Galton, Jake Woolbert, Charlie Compeau, Finn Worthington, Michael Harris Jr.,Tristan Field-Bradley, Caleb Gilmore, Judah Ossont, Conor Kelly, David Millson, Nolan Campagna and Owen Woodworth rounded out the participants at the state qualifier meet.”
The 4x400 relay team (Comeau, Brad-
ley, Gilmore, Worthington, Scott, Ossont, Compeau, Harris, Kelly ) took first place (3:31.45) enabling them to represent us in the New York State Track and Field Championships on June 7. The 4x400 relay team (Comeau, Field- Bradley, Scott and Wothington took 10th place with a season best 3:30.88 after being ranked 20th and waiting an additional six hours to run due to weather delays. They left it all on the track including Finn’s shoe.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Captains Jonathan Sweet, Finn Worthington,” Evans said. “Judah Ossont and Owen Woodworth. These four young men provided leadership and join a list of stellar captains in my ten years leading the boys varsity outdoor track and field team. I would like to thank my assistant coaches, Mark Tugaw, Steve Scaramuzzino and Ken Hammond. A special thank you to Coach Tugaw for being by my side and for the way he relates to our young men. The sun has set on another Cazenovia boys track and field season and it was a time to celebrate!
A positive attitude, hard practices, and accountability have translated into a successful program and one that I am proud to have molded and shaped.”
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Submitted photo
The Cazenovia boys track and field team had a successful season.
