Regional project interested in conservation of Quebecois traditions

TAUNY and its regional partners are wrapping up a year-long investigation into French-American heritage in Northern New York, specifically focusing on the cultural connection between Quebec and Northern New York .
TAUNY is still seeking individuals who maintain traditions from Quebec in their families, including activities such as making recipes from the family cookbook, singing the old songs, performing the old social dances, practicing art forms such as wood carving or weaving that originated in Quebec, as well as any other cultural traditions from Quebec.
TAUNY and its partners are also looking for people with knowledge of any sugaring season activities in our region that are connected to the traditions of the cabanes a sucre in Quebec.
Anyone with information about their Quebecois and/or French heritage to share can contact Jill Breit, jill@tauny.org, by Dec. 5.
This project is funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

Herkimer College science fair slated

Herkimer College is accepting applications for the Herkimer County Science Fair which will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Gaynor Science Center located in Johnson Hall. The fair is open to public, private and homeschooled Herkimer County juniors and seniors.
Cash prizes totaling $1,000 will be given for top science projects and special area awards. Volunteer ICON scientists will judge the fair. Winners will qualify for the INTEL Regional Science Fair in Syracuse. The fair is free to all students with an application deadline of Monday, Jan. 16. For an application and more information visit www.herkimer.edu/science-fair

Avoid seasonal caves and mines to protect bats

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has urged outdoor adventurers to suspend exploration of cave and mine sites that may serve as homes for bat hibernation. Human disturbances are harmful to the State’s bat population since the arrival of the disease known as white-nose syndrome, which has killed more than 90 percent of bats at most hibernation sites in New York.
“Research generated by DEC’s Wildlife Diversity staff and our partners demonstrates that white-nose syndrome makes bats highly susceptible to disturbances,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Even a single, seemingly quiet visit can kill bats that would otherwise survive the winter. If you see hibernating bats, assume you are doing harm and leave immediately.”
All posted notices restricting the use of caves and mines should be followed. If New Yorkers or visitors to the State encounter hibernating bats while underground, they are asked to leave the area as quickly and quietly as possible.

By CATHY BOWSHER
Express Staff

The Town of Webb UFSD parents are concerned about the district overreaching its authority in recent changes to the district’s athletic code.
Many parents attended the Nov. 15 board of education meeting and showed concern for some changes in the school’s athletic code.
“It’s interesting in our code of conduct, that we are singling out a gathering where alcohol is consumed or drugs are consumed and the athlete is reprimanded,” said one father about a portion of the proposed Athletic Code of Conduct. “What happens when if a student steals a sign or, well it’s illegal but, the board’s policy seems to be overreaching (trying to control the athlete) the judicial system of parents. Just because they are at a gathering where these things take place and just because of that they are punished? I want to teach my kids that it’s OK to be in the situation but the choice is something we teach as parents.”
The community section of the proposed athletic code states all school rules are to be followed without exception. Student athletes must practice good social behavior as citizens of the community, and keep in mind that by participating in a sport, they represent the school district and the community.
Any misconduct or illegal activity in the community which results in a misdemeanor or felony arrest, appearance tickets, prosecution, indictment or sentencing is considered to be inappropriate community behavior and subsequently, disciplinary action may occur. Legal or court proceeding or decisions do not need to be made before disciplinary consequences are enforced by the school district. The board was open to any concerns for changes.
“When I look the policy and hear your comments, a good fix doesn’t result, but we will take a look,” said Town of Webb UFSD Board of Education President Joseph Phaneuf.
The parent used the Poland Seminary High School’s code of conduct as an example of what a school’s policy could entail.
“Their policy is written where none of that stuff is in it,” he said. Phaneuf agreed to review the policy.
Later in the meeting, the matter of cellphone use in the schools was brought up. The Town of Webb Teacher Association President Brad Donovan read a statement regarding the policy about employee use of cellphones. Teachers took turns voicing their opinions about the policy and gave examples of their uses for cellphones in the classroom.
“I think we can all agree, the cellphone is more than just a phone, I think those days have passed us,” said one teacher. The board will review all proposed changes before a final approval.
“Final approval and integration of the policy is unknown until the policy revisions can be agreed upon,” Phaneuf said. A specific date for final revisions has not been specified.
During the remainder of the meeting, the board approved 2017 Alpine ski lesson instructors John Morelli and Diane Heroux paid at a rate of $15 per hour, Nordic ski lesson instructor Janine Phaneuf paid at a rate of $15 per hour, and Pablo Garcia, William Fenton, and Jason Perkins as volunteers to assist the coaches.

Photo submitted
American Bison/Prairie House, a life-sized bison sculpture is part of one of the new shows at View.

View announces an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 3, celebrating six new exhibitions: Synthesizing Nature, Emily White: Wildlife Management, Susan Cox: Finding Home, Davana Robedee: Climates, Michael Tarantelli: Portraits, and Northwind Fine Arts. The reception will feature hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, live music, and the opportunity to meet with several of the exhibiting artists. The reception is free and open to the public.
Synthesizing Nature
Synthesizing Nature is an invitational exhibition, curated by Cory E. Card of View and Wes Sherman of the Center for Contemporary Art in Bedminster Township, NJ, which explores the ongoing dialog between nature and culture. The exhibition features work by ten nationally and internationally acclaimed artists: Roberley Bell, Katrina Bello, Tiffany Calvert, Colin Edgington, Abraham Ferraro, Nick Marshall, Jonathan Ricci, Autumn Richardson, Richards Skelton, and Aaron Williams.
The work in the exhibition offers a diverse array of approaches to media and material including photography, painting, collage, sculpture, sound, and video. The exhibition runs Dec. 3 through April 1 at View, and Sept. 15 through Oct. 28, at the Center for Contemporary Art in Bedminster Township, N.J.
“Synthesizing Nature…comes at an exceedingly important and critical moment in our history. It is a powerful reminder of the impact of the nature/culture distinction on contemporary affairs and the messy implications of attempting, once and for all, finally, to dispense with it altogether.” Clarence Burton Sheffield, Jr., Professor, Rochester Institute of Technology
Emily White: Wildlife Management
Philadelphia-based artist Emily White draws on a life-long fascination with wildlife as a vehicle for her sculptures and paintings. Her work utilizes the subject of the animal to create metaphoric shifts using material. This exhibition will include American Bison/Prairie House, a life-sized bison sculpture, featured in this past year’s Philadelphia Flower Show. Wildlife Management runs Dec. 3 through March 25.
Susan Cox: Finding Home
Glass artist, Susan Cox explores the concept of home, through the utilization of iconic house forms. Finding Home is an investigation of memory, place, and the underlying sense of what defines home for everyone. With a background in architecture, Cox brings her understanding of the correlation of light and space into the realm of cast glass. Finding Home runs Nov. 26 through April 1.
Davana Robedee: Climates
Climates, is a new installation by Syracuse-based artist Davana Robedee. Her work operates under the theory that all physical objects possess consciousness. The object becomes an access point to another living being, a confrontation with another consciousness. Through the transference of spirit, energy, and essence her forms comment on the notion that life is more than just an interaction of physical material, but an amalgamation of conscious thought. Climates consists of drawings, and physically altering sculptural objects, including Revival, a large breathing sculpture that inflates and deflates over a certain period. Climates began its run on Oct. 22 and will continue through April 1.
Michael Tarantelli: Portraits
Artist Michael Tarrantelli’s beautifully rendered portraits in acrylics, charcoal, and graphite represent an uncanny look into the human psyche. Through his use of color, Tarantelli imbues his images with a moodiness that brings forth the character of the person represented in the image. The portraits are often candid, slightly skewed, and sometimes humorous in nature. His work can be considered part of a continuum of contemporary figurative artists such as Mark Ryden, John Currin, and Lisa Yuskavage. Portraits began its run Nov. 12 and will continue through May 21.
Northwind Fine Arts
Northwind Fine Arts is an artist cooperative located at 11 Woodruff Street, Saranac Lake. The members of the cooperative offer a continually rotating selection of artwork, in a wide range of media. View is very pleased to exhibit the work of this dynamic group of artists including; Alan Aardsma, Heidi Gutersloh, Catherine Hartung, Anne Hughes, Rachel Lamb, Catharine Moore, Lee Ann Sporn, Susan Whiteman, Ed Williams, and David Woodward. The exhibition began its run on Nov. 12 and will continue through March 18.
To learn more about View programming, visit ViewArts.org, or call (315) 369-6411.

By CATHY BOWSHER
Express Staff

Snowmobilers are getting ready for the season with their purchases of trail permits.
The town has sold over 6,000 pre-season permits and is now in its regular season of permit sales.
“We are almost on par with the total pre-season permit sales from last year. People were very frustrated last year and this year they are excited. A lot of them just purchased their snowmobiles for last year and they didn’t even get to ride them,” said Town of Webb Publicity Official Mike Farmer. “It was such an anomaly, even if we have a bad winter it is already twice as good as last year. As a matter of fact, the last three days of pre-season sales, the ladies at the info center processed over 1,700 permits alone. The big push.”
Trail permits are required to ride on the Town of Webb and Town of Inlet trail systems. Permits can be purchased online or at the Town of Webb Visitors Center.
The pre-season permit sale price was $65 per snowmobile until Nov. 15. Permits cannot be obtained unless the rider’s sled is registered. A valid VIN number is also required to complete the registration form.
“If you want to save money on registration, join the snowmobile club and save,” said Cathy Webster from the Town of Webb Visitor Information Center. The New York State Snowmobile Association or NYSSA offers a club membership that gives discounts on registration. Discount prices may vary and it is best to visit the NYSSA website at www.membership.nysnowmobiler.com for more information.
The Inlet Barnstormers Snowmobile Club will have a booth at Snodeo where Club Membership Administrator Cindy Beckley will be accepting membership dues and issuing New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) vouchers. The annual membership dues are $30 per individual or family (additional family members are limited to one spouse or partner and children under age 18).
Since the pre-season permit sale deadline has passed, a permit for the whole season is now available for $80 per snowmobile. Seven-day permits and weekday-only permits are also available for purchase.
“Stop in the Town of Webb Visitor Information Center and we can get you started,” Webster said.
Snow mobile season officially starts Monday, Dec. 5, if conditions permit. According to Accuweather’s predictions, Dec. 5 does not call for snow. With fingers crossed, by the following week, intermittent snow should begin to fall.
“You got your motel owners, you got your web cams, you got the weather report, if the motels aren’t fibbing you then yeah, conditions can be seen as good or bad through your own eyes,” said Don Wilson from Don’s Polaris Sales and Service.
Visit www.snowmobileoldforge.com for current trail conditions, trail maps, and permit forms. Call (315) 369-6983 for more information.

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by Stan Ernst

You may find this story implausible and I assure you it is. I’ve muddled the facts to shield myself from litigations, abductions and the IRS.
Five years ago I met a sickly old gent sipping Dewar’s in the Wigwam Tavern in Forestport. His name was Zachariah; he was tethered to a portable oxygen tank. A hired man had driven him to the Wigwam from his Utica assisted living residence for, as Zachariah put it, “One last hurrah.” He was sitting alone at a table and when we made eye contact he beckoned me over and offered to buy me a drink. I, being me, accepted. He said he wished to tell me a story that would make me wealthy beyond my wildest dreams. Sure and bats will fly out my Depends.
I thought I’d humor the old boy for one adult beverage, so I sat down and listened to his tale. His yarn began fifteen years earlier when he met two guys in the St. Elizabeth’s ICU. Zachariah was in for his third heart attack and the other guys were victims of a horrendous vehicular collision. A gent named George was paralyzed from the neck down and knocking on Heaven’s door. His pal Bernie had two broken legs and a collapsed lung; he was critical but expected to survive. After two days the three zombies began croaking through their endotracheal tubes. George shocked the others when he revealed that he’d robbed the bank he managed near Montpelier, Vermont. He confessed that when the bank closed for Memorial Day he stuffed a half million dollars worth of bank notes, jewelry and rare coins in his old Navy duffle bag and skedaddled outta town. Definitely sounds like something a rudderless Boatswain’s Mate might do.
George absconded to Ticonderoga where he’d stashed a toasty Ford pickup with bogus New York plates. He tossed his Vermont plates in Lake Champlain after abandoning his Cadillac Escalade in the NCCC commuter student parking lot. The Escalade was arrogated by a Freshman Criminal Investigation class who chopped it for parts thereby obliterating any forensic evidence. George planned to tiptoe through the Adirondacks to Buffalo to confound any law that might be dogging him. He made it to Indian Lake the first night, stopping at Marty’s Chili Nights for Camaron Del Mar and six shots of Encantado Mezcal de Oaxaca. He checked into a local rental cabin with DirecTV where he saw his smiling face on the 11 p.m. news. The reporter said that state police had set up a roadblock near Old Forge prompting George to shave off his Fu Manchu, dye his hair orange and dress like a pizza delivery guy. Now he needed a place to stash his loot.
The next morning George drove to Blue Mountain. Several state troopers zoomed past with lights flashing but they were disinterested in a carrot top pizza delivery nerd poking along in a roached pickup. After passing Lake Utowana George freaked; he must find a place to hide his duffle bag. George told Zachariah and Bernie that as he approached Raquette Lake he noticed a yellow gate at a DEC trailhead across from Golden Beach; he pulled a U-ey. There were no other vehicles in sight. He parked at the yellow gate and dragged his duffle through the woods. After trudging 1.4 miles he came to what he called a 50’ high “Secret Falls.” He remembered wandering off the trail above the falls for twenty minutes before spotting a huge sugar maple growing around a giant bolder; a glacial erratic. He climbed the boulder and discovered a 10’ deep tree hollow up against the boulder. He heaved his duffle into the hollow and trudged back to his truck.
While passing through Inlet George pulled a recycled anchovy pizza box from the Screamen Eagle dumpster and used it to bluff his way through the Old Forge roadblock. The Troopers couldn’t send him and his reeking truck away fast enough. He shuffled off to Buffalo for a long winter’s respite; lying low until spring before retrieving his treasure. But life isn’t a box of Godiva dark chocolates, which is a crying shame. On his April trip back to “Secret Falls” George and his pal Bernie were T-boned by a fuel tanker exiting the Alder Creek CITGO and transported to St. E’s barely clinging to life. George ultimately went belly up and Bernie went in search of the treasure.
Bernie, a virtuous fella, promised to share the treasure with Zachariah who was still convalescing. Bernie rented a $2/day 1971 Ford Pinto and drove to the yellow gate never to be seen again. Over the years Zachariah theorized that Bernie found George’s tree hollow and slid headfirst into the void while attempting to extricate the duffle. Zachariah speculates that portly Bernie wedged himself upside-down inside the hollow and succumbed to starvation while staring down at George’s treasure. Zachariah’s failing health prevented him from pursuing the venture further; instead he shared his fantasy with me. I finished my beer and bid the old raconteur adieu. I assume that Zachariah partied into the wee-hours with the St. E’s nurses that attend the Wigwam to pole dance on that well-worn 12” cedar tree in the middle of the dance floor.
Deb and I searched the Death Brook Falls area numerous times hoping to find George’s giant hollow maple. It’s creepy to think that when we do find it, Bernie’s moldy remains will be melted over George’s treasure. Our impending dilemma is do we exchange the swag for the bank’s paltry $50K reward or do we fence the priceless booty on the International black market.
Why am I sharing this tale with fellow Expresslandians? Because like Zachariah, I’m too infirmed to climb the slippery rocks around Death Brook Falls; it’s a perilous place. Plus “Secret Falls” mosquitoes are more numerous, larger and more voracious than Stillwater Hotel hummingbirds. I trust that one day someone will find George’s treasure and become famously rich. If it’s you, please remember George, Bernie, Zachariah and me with a round at the Wigwam on Saturday night when the St. E’s nurses are pole dancing their little hearts out.

By Dave Clark
For the Express

Girls varsity volleyball
The girls’ varsity volleyball team opened their season Dec. 1, with a non-league game at home against a very strong South Lewis team.
In sweeping our team in three straight games, South Lewis used its great serving and strong net play to its advantage in their victory. Their serving was especially impressive as several of the girls even used a great jump serve that we had trouble returning.
Individually for Old Forge, Dayna DeAngelo led her team with one kill and seven digs. Laura Rubyor had one kill and two assists; Shelby Townsend had one ace and one kill; Mickayla Abrial had one kill and one dig; Ashley Eisenhart had two assists and Mackenzie LaPorte and Natasha Manktelow each had two digs.
Boys junior varsity basketball
The boys jayvee basketball team opened their season of play last Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Little Falls in a non-league game. Little Falls came away with a solid 51-28 victory.
After a nervous and slow start to the game, Old Forge settled down to play much better in the last three periods of play. With many ninth graders on the team, it will take them some time to learn how to play on the high school level, but, they showed some good play in their first game.
Six different members of the team scored points in this game led by Jim Connell with eight points. Connell also led the team in assists with four and he pulled down 10 rebounds just missing a double-double. Shane Hulser added seven points and pulled down a game high 13 rebounds. Dylan LaPorte had six points, Tyler Pittarelli had three and Wyatt Beckingham and Skyler Delano each had two points.
The schedule is tough as this non-league game attests to in playing such a large school, but, that tough competition may help this team improve faster. They just have to continue to work hard and not get discouraged.
Boys varsity basketball
The boys’ varsity basketball team opened their season with an away game at Little Falls last Tuesday, Nov. 29, in a non-league game.
Playing an opening game is hard enough, but, when you have to play a good larger school on their court, it becomes extremely difficult for a school as small as Old Forge. Little Falls used its advantage to the fullest in the first quarter, established a huge lead and never looked back on this one-sided game. In affect, the game did neither team any good.
Waddie Kalil led the scoring with eight points followed by Josh Kelly with six and Tyler Kearns with four. Five other Webb players got into the scoring column. Connor and Sully Ulrich, Carter Kelly, TJ Hulser and Noah Lamphear all scored for their team. Hulser, Kalil, Josh Kelly and Kearns were the leading rebounders with four rebounds each. Josh Kelly finished out a good game by leading the team in assists with three and he added two steals for the night.

Girls junior varsity volleyball
The girls’ junior varsity volleyball team lost its season opener at home against a strong South Lewis team last Thursday, Dec. 1. South Lewis won all three games played with Old Forge becoming more competitive as the evening wore on. Part of it was opening game nerves and much had to do with the strength of the South Lewis squad. Both their jayvee and varsity teams put on an exhibition equal to any school I have seen play in our gym.
Shelby Mayeu, Britney Levi and Brooke Dolan each had two aces, Lili Pittarelli had one kill and Caitlin Russell had one ace and one assist.
Girls modified volleyball
The girls’ modified volleyball team continues to show improvement in their play as both teams were very competitive against two larger schools this past week. The B team won both of their games and the A team, although they lost both, were very close to their opposition.
Tuesday, Nov. 29, the A team lost at Holland Patent, 25-22, 26-28 and 25-22. This was a very close and exciting match that could have gone either way.
Alyssa Green was 16/18 on her serves with three aces and Laura Bogardus was 11/13 on her serves also with three aces. Those two were the leading servers, but, Alana Haehl had one ace and Rachelle Manzi had one ace and one assist. Elsa Vellone had one dig.
The B team won their match, 20-25, 25-19 and 25-17. As a team, they served very well and that was the main factor for their victory. Sarah Beck was the leading server with a 14/16 evening and six aces. Aces were also credited to Amanda Huber, Skyler Madtes, Chelsea Clark, Alison Russell and Reagan Ehrensbeck.
Thursday, Dec. 1, the team traveled to Westmoreland to complete a busy week for them–with both games on the road. Westmoreland won the A game, 26-24 and 25-13.
Haehl led the team in serving on a perfect 14/14 performance and one dig. Saige Rowe, Green and Bogardus each had an ace with Green also having one kill and one dig. Cameron Gribneau had one dig, and Vellone had one assist.
The B team defeated Westmoreland, 26-24 and 25-14. The leading servers were Huber who was 11/12 with five aces and Madtes with 11/14 and seven aces. Russell, Clark and Ehrensbeck also had aces.

Webb Varsity Basketball team plays in Coaches vs. Cancer Game
For the first time ever, the Town of Webb School varsity basketball team took part in a Coaches vs. Cancer game played this past Saturday, Dec. 3, at Ft. Edwards against Hartford.
The game was an exciting game from start to finish and, with the score tied with only seconds to play, Tyler Kearns took a half court pass from Sully Ulrich and drove in to hit a game winning layup just before the buzzer.
Old Forge had a 20-13 lead at the half, but, Hartford came back to narrow the lead to one-point by the end of the third period. It was closely played throughout the fourth period and not decided until Kearns hit the shot to win the game.
Josh Kelly led the team with 16 points, four steals and five assists. Waddie Kalil, a much improved player, had a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. TJ Hulser had two points and 10 rebounds, Carter Kelly had five points, Kearns had four and Sully Ulrich had six points.
Was it worth the long trip to Ft. Edward? Well, the victory helps, but, the main purpose was the game was played for a good cause. We are certainly proud of the team and their coach, Tom Greco, for taking part.
The schedule does not get any easier for our teams as they have to play at Morrisville-Eaton and at Oriskany, last year’s state champions, this week.

Photo by Cathy Bowsher
Winnie Franson draws the raffle winner and Milton Franson holds the prize.

By CATHY BOWSHER
Express Staff

A solo exhibit by artist Milton Norman Franson called, “Adirondack Impressions-Misty Waters, Foggy Mountains,” was on display at the Old Forge Library. The collection consists of Adirondack lake scenes and canoes. On Wednesday, Nov. 30, the show closed and a raffle drawing was held.
An original pencil drawing from the collection was offered as the prize to benefit the Old Forge Library Fund. The drawing titled, “The Thief,” a majestic pencil sketched Eagle and Osprey was won by a man named Mr. Bolmer.
Milton and his wife Winnie have been traveling to and from the Adirondacks for the past 40 years or more and continue to visit, “In 1973, my mother drove a black Ford Model T at 35 miles per hour on a dirt road from the Lowville area to here every year. I was born in ‘46 and since the 1950s I started coming here for Santa Claus Land,” said Winnie Franson. “We’ve been coming here since our first ski trip in 74,” said Milton.
Milton Franson has an eye for capturing nature and has been doing so since the year 2000. “When I work on a painting or a drawing, for instance, this one was made in 2000, I keep workig on it. A few years after, in 2006 I went back and thought that the sky needed to be bluer, and then the trees needed to be more 1-2-3-4, or whatever. It is then I say it is done, maybe, it’s always a work in progress,” said Franson about his creative process.
Milton is an artist and a writer. He has produced the Wineland Sagas Books, starting with book one, “The Saga of Leif the Lucky.” “I am a fan of historical fiction,what can I say?” said Milton.
Milton’s books focus on Viking history and can be found online at, Amazon.com.

The Town of Webb schools will present its annual Holiday Choral Concerts next week in the school gymnasium. The Junior/Senior Holiday Concert will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8. Students should be at the school by 6:30 p.m.
The Junior Chorus will be performing a variety of pieces ranging from traditional Christmas Carols to an accepted jazz standard by Duke Ellington. The Senior Chorus will be performing pieces that range from traditional folk songs, spirituals, pop hits, and more. Junior/Senior students should be dressed in all black concert attire.
The Elementary Choral Concert will be on Friday, Dec. 9 at 12:30 p.m. in the school gymnasium. All students from Kindergarten to Fifth grade will be performing a variety of Christmas tunes. Elementary students should be dressed in nice pants, shirts or dresses/skirts. Both concerts are free and open to the public. All Choirs perform under the direction of Jed Kovalovsky.

Looking for a new and unique way to celebrate the Christmas holiday come to Forestport for the annual Electric Light Up Parade at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18. The Electric Light Up Parade will line-up and register as an Individual or as a group in the parking area across from St. Patrick’s Church. Everyone in the Electric Horse Parade is asked to carry some type of lighting. You can bring lighted and decorated wagons, strollers, wheelbarrows and carriages – anything that is not motorized.
The parade will proceed through the streets and everyone will assemble in the Memorial Park with the horse-drawn Santa right before the Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree. There will be singing of Christmas Carols along with refreshments. There will also be horse drawn hay rides available.
There will be a moment of silence to honor the memory of the late Town Supervisor Parker Snead who was instrumental in developing the concept of the Electric Light Up Christmas Parade.
The children will then gather in the Forestport Presbyterian Fellowship Hall to meet Santa and receive their special presents compliments of the Wigwam.
Specially priced light up items are on sale at the Forestport Diner.
This unique parade is sponsored by the Forestport Fire Department, St. Patrick’s Church, the Presbyterian Church, the Senior Recreation Program, Girl Scout Troop #20002, the Forestport Athletic Association, the Karate Program, Little League, Kayuta Campground, Wilcor International, the Wigwam, Scooter’s, the Forestport Diner, the Station Country Store and the Town of Forestport.
For more information, contact Jeannie Wolcott at (315) 723-6213.

Tapestry, the All-Centuries Singers, will celebrate the Christmas season with a program entitled “Rejoice!” at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17 at View. The program takes its name from a set of six arrangements of traditional Christmas hymns by Alice Parker. Interspersed among the Parker choruses will be seasonal Renaissance works by Handl, Isaac, Palestrina, Lassus, and Victoria; works by Elgar, Distler, and Willan; and contemporary settings of traditional carols.
Tapestry, under the direction of G. Roberts Kolb, is an ensemble of 21 voices who come together from around Central New York to share their love of choral singing with one another, and with their audiences. Tapestry will be joined for this concert by noted area pianist Sar-Shalom Strong.
Cash bar will be available throughout the show. Gallery admission is free with purchase of a concert ticket.
The performance will take place at View. Seating is limited. Advanced sale tickets are recommended. To purchase tickets, for more information, or to register, visit www.ViewArts.org. Those interested in attending can also call (315) 369-6411 extension 201, or email info@viewarts.org.
Programming is made possible with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo, the New York State Legislature, NYSCA, and Meyda Tiffany and Lighting. Performances are held in Gould Hall.

Business reopening in May
Wagging it in the ADK will reopen in May (spring) and will remain open through October. In last week’s issue, the reopening was said to be in July.

Seen captions corrected
Heather Caulfield, not Heather Laurel is pictured with Kristen Frymire, Chloe Brosemer, Boulder, Bonnie Baker, Kyle Lindsay, Olivia Phaneuf, and Sue Mahoney in the Adirondack Seen for Nov. 29.
Also corrected, Olivia Phaneuf and Heather Caulfield pose with Crimson the dog.

The Inlet Barnstormers Snowmobile Club will hold its annual Christmas Party and monthly meeting at The Ole Barn Restaurant in Inlet on Tuesday, Dec. 13.
A short business meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m., cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 7.
Your paid reservations should have already been made by December 5. If you have any questions, call Barb Winslow at (315) 369-2241.
Don’t forget to bring your wrapped unisex gift valued at $15 for the gift exchange.

BUSHINGER

Marylynn Bushinger
November 27, 2016

Marylynn Bushinger, 64, of Brantingham, and formerly of Deerfield, passed away peacefully Nov. 27, at her home with her loving family by her side.
She was born July 17, 1952, in Utica, daughter of James E. Plumb, Jr., and Anne Rauscher Plumb. She attended Blessed Sacrament School and Utica Catholic Academy.
Marylynn married Keith Edgar Bushinger on Nov. 3, 1973, at Blessed Sacrament Church, Utica. They share a wonderful marriage of 43 years.
She worked as a bank teller at Oneida National Bank in Horatio Mall and later at the family business, Bushinger Flowers, retiring in 2007.
Marylynn loved being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed cooking, cleaning, shopping and spending time at camp on Fourth Lake. She could not wait to be a grandma to both of her grandsons in 2015.
She is survived by her loving husband, Keith Bushinger whom she adored; her son Christopher (Sarah) Bushinger of Trenton Falls; her daughter and best friend Barbie (Norm) Seakan of New Hartford; her grandsons Wesley Bushinger and Tyler Seakan; her mother-in-law Barbara Bushinger; her sister Judy (Bob) Nahumyk; her brother Jim (Jan) Plumb and her brother-in-law Gregory (Maureen) Bushinger; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves her special friends Eileen Doser-Gallagher, Jackie Meehan and MaryLee O’Brien.
She was predeceased by her mother Anne Rauscher Plumb on Jan. 18, 2003, her father James E. Plumb on March 20, 1993, and her father-in-law Edgar I. Bushinger on March 4, 2007.
The family wishes to extend the sincere thanks to Dr. Alex Miller and Dr. Ingo Mellinghoff of Sloan-Kettering Memorial Cancer Center and Irene Kurtleawicz of Hospice for all of their care of Marylynn.
The funeral was on Friday, Dec. 2 at the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary where a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated. Interment will be in Green Lawn Cemetery.
In memory of Marylynn, friends may consider donations to the American Brain Tumor Association, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Ste 550, Chicago, IL 60631.
Online messages of sympathy may be left at: www.dfwefh.com

OLNEY

Robert Olney
November 20, 2016

Robert C. Olney, 88, of Woodgate, and Port Charlotte, Fla. passed away peacefully at his home in Port Charlotte, Fla. on Nov. 20.
Bob was born to Nelson and Ella Olney March 13, 1928, in Utica. He served in the US Navy during WWII. He worked in law enforcement at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome until his retirement. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, his wife Geraldine (Kast), his daughter Debra, and son Robert II, along with his brothers Nelson II, Richard, and his sister, Linda.
Survivors include his daughter Peggy (Jim) Brownell of Inlet, his son Ronald (Debbie) Olney of Summerville, S.C., seven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, his brother Don and sister Marilyn, several nieces and nephews and his longtime companion Dolores Risley.
Cremation was preformed by Roberson Funeral home and crematory in Port Charlotte, Fla.
There will be a graveside service at the Woodgate cemetery in May 2017

By Dave Clark
For the Express

Tanner Russell, Athletic Director at the Town of Webb School, recently announced that three of the teams in the fall season, were recipients of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Scholar/Athlete awards.
To be eligible for this award, a minimum of 75 percent of the team must have a cumulative grade average of 90 percent or greater.
The girls’ soccer team made the list with all members considered. Using the top 75 percent, they had a fine cumulative grade point average of 95 percent. Using the entire team, the average was 93 percent. Russell said he used the entire team which consisted of the following girls in no particular order: Fern Bailey, Lexie Beal, Lauren Beckingham, Dayna DeAngelo, Alex DiOrio, Ashley Eisenhart, Emily Greene, Alexis Hollister, Mackenzie LaPorte, Laura Levi, Katie Ludwig, Sydney Payne, Paige Schweinsberg, Rachel Smith, Alex Sutherland, Shelby Townsend and Abby Kelly.
The girls’ cross country running team also was honored as they had a 94.4 average. The members of this team that made up this fine average were: Laura Levi, Emily Greene, Emily Rudolph, Rachel Smith and Brittany Johnston.
The boys’ cross country running team also received this award with a 91.8 average. The members are: Jack Rivet, Collin Weedmark, Tyler Rudolph, Nick Olsen, Brendan Kelly, Ryan Johnston and Macgregor Ritz-Kenny.
Congratulations to these athletes and their coaches on this fine achievement. This is my favorite award given at the end of each season as it shows that athletes, who put in hours of preparation on their sport, can still find time to do well academically.

Niccolls Memorial Presbyterian Church is taking orders for the Food Sense package for December. Each unit costs $20.50. This program is open to all. There are no eligibility requirements nor is there any obligation to purchase food every month.
The December unit consists of chicken tenders, boneless ham steaks, breakfast sausage, ground turkey, fresh eggs, pancake mix, potato hash browns, toasted oats cereal, frozen strawberries, mixed vegetables, and two fresh produce items.
There are also seven specials available at an additional cost: spiral ham, stuffed chicken breasts, American cheese, a pantry combo box, breaded shrimp, meatloaf, and scalloped potatoes.
Orders and payment are due in the church office by Thursday, Dec. 8. Orders are to be picked up at the church on Friday, Dec. 23 at 12:30 p.m. To order, call 369-3475 or stop by the church office between the hours of 9:30-1:30 Monday through Friday.
Orders and payment are due in the church office by Thursday, Dec. 8. Orders are to be picked up at the church on Friday, Dec. 23 at 12:30 p.m. To order, call (315) 369-3475 or stop by the church office between the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Photos by Cathy Bowsher

The Old Forge Ballet Company held its performance of the Nutcracker at the Strand Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 3. The annual presentation of the Nutcracker is an Old Forge tradition and instructors, Sue Anne Lorenz-Wallace and her sister Linda Lorenz LaDue worked hard to prepare their students for the magical night. The standing ovation at the end of the show was well earned.

File photo
At last year’s Shootout the sleds shot past on bare ground. It looks like this year will be a different story.

The 27th annual American Snowmobile, Dynotech Research Manufacture shootout will be held on Dec. 9, in Inlet. Gates open at 8 a.m. races start at 11 a.m.
The American Snowmobile Dynotech Research Shootout is an annual event that showcases the new sleds from the big four manufacturers–Arctic Cat, Ski Doo, Yamaha and Polaris. These include snowmobiles of 130 horsepower, 160 horsepower plus and the unlimited classes. The sleds are stock and are provided by the participating dealers: CJ Motorsports, D&D Powersports and Sports Unlimited. These dealers provide the stock snowmobiles. The horsepower of these sleds is certified at Jim Czekala’s Dynotech Research facility. Then all sleds are equally studded with Woody’s traction products. After this point no alterations are allowed.
The sleds will then be brought to Chip and Cindy Sauer’s track in Inlet, behind The Ole Barn, on the day of the shootout. They will be run on a 1,000 foot track where the ET and MPH will be recorded using a Portatree timing system provided by Heinrich (Kirsch), Molly Kirschner and Bill Stoddard.
After the box stock runs (two per sled) are completed, then the participating dealers are allowed to make small changes to each sled to improve their overall performance. This is called dealer prep. Then participants will be able to make two additional runs each, to see if their changes have improve their overall performance.
Aftermarket companies are also invited to the event to showcase their performance modifications on sleds they’ve selected to bring to the shootout. They are also allowed to make two runs per sled.
American Snowmobiler Magazine will receive the ET and MPH for each box stock sled and all participating aftermarket companies that provide a spec sheet on the modifications to their sleds. This information is then publicized in the American Snowmobiler Magazine for all to view. AmSnow TV will be shooting the event for a later broadcast. More information can be found on amsnow.com.
Trail riders are also able to participate during the event by making a 660 foot pass on the shootout track. There will be local vendors and food available on the site.
After completion of the shootout the participating dealers and aftermarket companies will attend an awards banquet held at The Ole Barn provided by owners Ron and Kathy Hansen.
Van Auken’s Inne located in Thendara will provide the lodging for the American Snowmobiler staff during this event.
For more information about the event, including links for lodging, check out NewYorkShootout.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 6
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
7 p.m. Raquette Lake Trivia night at the Tap Room in Raquette Lake.

Wednesday, Dec. 7
8:30 a.m. Morning yoga at View.
9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
10 a.m.-noon Sorting donations at the Mission Boutique thrift store at Niccolls.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. SHARPS senior program at Niccolls Church.
5:30-7 p.m. Evening yoga at View.
7 p.m. Woodgate Free Library Board of Trustees regular meeting at the Woodgate Library. Call the Library at (315) 392-4814 for verification or to be put on the agenda.
8 p.m. AA meeting at Niccolls Church, Old Forge.

Thursday, Dec. 8
8:30 a.m. Kiwanis Board of Directors’ meeting at Adirondack Bank in Old Forge.
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
7 p.m. The Town of Webb schools will present its Junior/Senior Holiday Concert. The Junior Chorus will be performing a variety of pieces ranging from traditional Christmas Carols to an accepted jazz standard by Duke Ellington. The Senior Chorus will be performing pieces that range from traditional folk songs, spirituals, pop hits, and more.

Friday, Dec. 9
8 a.m. Gates open for the American Snowmobiler/DynoTech Research Shootout at Chip and Cindy Sauer’s track behind The Ole Barn, Inlet. Shootout starts at 11 a.m. Performance shop modified runs, food and raffles, vendors and swaps. Spectator fee is $10. Trail riders can run 660’ for $10. For tech info call Jim at DynoTech (585) 993-2777 or Kirsch (315) 730-7893. www.inletny.com
8:30-10 a.m. Morning yoga at View.
9 a.m.-7 p.m. Old Forge DMV opened for extended Snodeo hours.
9 a.m. AA meeting at Niccolls Church, Old Forge.
12:30 p.m. The Town of Webb schools will present its Elementary Choral Concert. All students from Kindergarten to Fifth grade will be performing a variety of Christmas tunes.
3-6 p.m. The 40th annual Snodeo opens at the North Street Pavilion in Old Forge.
7-8:30 p.m. Mission Boutique thrift store open at Niccolls Church, Old Forge.
8 p.m. AA meeting at Niccolls Church, Old Forge.
Saturday, Dec. 10
8 a.m. Vintage Snowmobile Show and Swap Meet at the pavilion. Awards given at 2 p.m. For more show information call Ed Staab at (315) 942-9911.
8 a.m.-2p.m. Old Forge DMV open for extended Snodeo hours.
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
9 a.m.-5 p.m. Snodeo open at the North Street Pavilion in Old Forge.
11 a.m. Registration begins for the 120cc and Kitty-Cat Youth Snowmobile Races at Snodeo. Races begin at noon. Awards immediately following. All participants receive a trophy and t-shirt.
1-4 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at Snodeo for photo ops.
5 p.m. The annual Ladies Auxiliary Christmas Party will be held at the Raquette Lake Fire Hall. DJ will be spinning tunes. Bring a dish to pass, $15 donation.
8 p.m.: AA meeting at Niccolls Church, Old Forge.

Sunday, Dec. 11
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Snodeo open at the North Street Pavilion in Old Forge.
1 p.m. Raffle drawings begin at Snodeo.
3 p.m. Cookie Swap at the Inlet Town Hall. Bring three dozen of your favorite Christmas cookies–they can be all the same or three different kinds–bring the recipes. Coffee and hot chocolate will be served. Everyone will get to take home a three dozen assortment of cookies. Copies of the recipes will be made so you can bake your new favorites at home.(315) 357-5501, www.inletny.com
7:30 p.m.: AA meeting at Inlet Community Church, Inlet.

Monday, Dec. 12
8:30-10 a.m. Morning yoga at View.
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
10 a.m.-noon Sorting donations at Niccolls Church’s Mission Boutique thrift store in Old Forge.
5:30-7 p.m. Evening yoga at View.

Tuesday, Dec. 13
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ongoing gallery exhibits at View.
7 p.m. Raquette Lake Trivia night at the Tap Room in Raquette Lake.

Visitor Information
-Old Forge, Thendara, Eagle Bay, Big Moose (315) 369-6983
-Inlet (315) 357-5501
-Raquette Lake, Long Lake (518) 624-3077
-Blue Mountain Lake, Indian Lake (518) 648-5112
Libraries
-Old Forge Library
Open Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (315) 369-6008
-Inlet Public Library
Open Monday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Closed Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (315) 357-6494
-Raquette Lake Library
Open Monday 2-8 p.m.; Tuesday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed Wednesday and Friday (315) 354-4005
-Woodgate Free Library
Open Monday 3-8 p.m.; Wednesday 2-6 p.m.; Thursday and Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed Tuesday and Friday (315) 392-4814
Organizations
-Herkimer County Department of Motor Vehicles on Park Ave. in Old Forge. Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.; closed noon-1 p.m. for lunch. Call (315) 369-3301
-View: year-round art exhibits, performances, events and workshops. Open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday noon-4 p.m. Call (315) 369-6411 or visit www.viewarts.org (Old Forge)
-Town of Webb Historical Association: year-round free museum open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment. Call (315) 369-3838 or visit www.webbhistory.org (Old Forge)
Services
-Meals on Wheels. Herkimer County Office for the Aging (315) 867-1414
-St. Elizabeth’s Health Center. Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (315) 369-6619 for an appointment (Old Forge)
-HASCA. A licensed home care service agency. Call (315) 369-6183