Cazenovia Republican digital edition - April 17, 2024

Dan Kuper named Madison County Champion of Tourism

ovia Historic Preservation/Architectural Review Committee. According to Kuper, the Lincklaen House has also assisted many local organizations, such as the Cazenovia Golf Club, the Cazenovia Country Club, the Cazenovia Club, the Cazenovia Public Library, and Lorenzo State Historic Site, with things like staffing, food service, getting things running, and redesigning kitchens.

Kuper and his wife, Mary Margaret, have been partners in the Lincklaen House in Cazenovia since 1997 and the Hampton Inn & Suites Cazenovia since 2016. He became a MCT partner around 2002 and has served on the agency’s board of directors for around nine years.

Kuper also serves as first assistant chief for the Cazenovia Fire Department and has volunteered on several Cazenovia boards and committees. Throughout the years, he has worked with the Cazenovia Athletic Association and Pop Warner, helped with youth sports, and served on the Village of Cazen-

By kAtE Hill Staff Writer

Kuper was announced as the recipient of the Champion of Tourism award during the MCT Annual Partner Meeting on April 11 at the Oneida Community Mansion House. A few past award recipients are Matthew and Juanita Critz of Critz Farms; Ray Brothers BBQ; Madison County Historian Matthew Urtz; Jimmy and Janine Golub of Our Farm; and Dr. Joan M. Johnson, who was an associate professor of travel-tourism and hospitality management at SUNY Morrisville and co-founder of MCT.

Madison County is continuing its extensive review of long-term options for the preservation of its waste management system.

On April 9, the Madison County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution declaring the county’s desire to retain ownership and management of its landfill and management of its waste management programs. “The board recognizes that the current waste management program offers services that provide significant advantages for residents and is a point of community pride and an asset worth preserving,” the adopted resolution states. “[Based] on a thorough and ongoing review of available options, the board has determined that a

public-private partnership is not currently the best available option and is no longer a course of action currently being pursued.”

Additionally, the resolution requests that Joseph J. Pinard, chairman of the Madison County Board of Supervisors, create a Madison County Waste Management Ad-Hoc Committee to perform indepth research and advise the board regarding the numerous variables and issues related to the county’s waste management programs.

The committee will consist of “experienced and versed supervisors, peers, and employees as suggested by the full board to the chairman of the board and the chairwoman of the solid waste committee.”

Members of the public who are interested in being part of the committee and may have relevant experience can apply by following the application link at madisoncounty.ny.gov/3037/Landfill-Options

Applications should be submitted by April 26, 2024.

Background

Madison County has been working for the past two years to come up with a solution to concerns about the long-term financial sustainability of its current solid waste management system.

According to an April 9 Madison County press release, the waste management program serves a population of more than 67,000 people in nearly 26,000 households in 15 towns, 10 villages, and the City of Oneida. It employs more than 30 people at the Buyea Road landfill, four transfer stations, and the Materials Recovery Facility, which has a decades-long partnership with the Madison-Cortland ARC.

Collectively, the program manages 55,000 tons of garbage and 3,500 tons of recyclables generated in Madison County

each year.

In late 2021, the Madison County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to hire Cornerstone Engineering and Geology, PLLC to assess the current operations and then evaluate alternatives that could potentially improve the financial sustainability of the solid waste management system.

The firm’s final report, which was released in February 2023, indicates that current waste disposal fees are not sufficiently covering the costs of operations, capital expenses, and the long-term management of the landfill. If changes are not made to the system, waste disposal fees will need to increase to fully fund the program’s annual costs, as well as the future costs of landfill closure and post-closure monitoring.

The Cornerstone study evaluated the following three alternatives: maintaining the status quo with the implementation

School board approves proposed budget; plan to close budget gap outlined

By kAtE Hill Staff Writer

On April 15, the Cazenovia Central School District Board of Education (CCSD BOE) adopted a proposed expenditure budget of $38,826,826 for the 2024-25 school year.

The district was faced with a significant budget gap at the beginning of the 2024-25 budget development process. To close the gap, CCSD has proposed a 5.9 percent tax levy increase, fund balance use of $1,654,009, and strategic spending cuts totaling $399,295.

Finnerty reported that the district opted to take all three measures to mitigate the $2,465,911 gap between revenues and expenditures.

The district has proposed the following strategic cuts: reduce a foreign language position by attrition, reduce a library aid position by attrition, reduce an elementary school position by attrition, eliminate an on-site copy center, reduce BOCES printing, reduce Innovation Tech, and eliminate a mobile planetarium.

“Attrition is when someone elects to leave the district [and] we don’t fill that position,”

The budget for the current 2023-24 school year is $36,529,529 and includes an appropriated fund balance of $1,100,000 and a tax levy increase of 6.9 percent. Before the BOE voted on the proposed 2024-25 budget, Assistant Superintendent/ School Business Official Thomas Finnerty delivered a brief presentation. He explained that at the start of the budget development process, the district’s draft revenue budget for 2024-25 totaled $36,760,210 while its draft expenditures budget totaled $39,226,121. “Looking at the two together, the revenue and the expenditures [weren’t] lining up,” Finnerty said. “This is what we had to face right out of the gate this year. The revenue car was trailing way behind the expenditures. As we always talk about, there are really three ways of dealing with this. We can cut costs, we can raise revenues by raising taxes, or we can use more fund balance, which is the school district’s savings account.”

Finnerty explained. “It could be a retirement, or it could be just someone resigning, and we opt not to fill the position.”

Because the proposed 2024-25 tax levy increase is above CCSD’s calculated tax levy limit of 4.02 percent, a supermajority of voters — 60 percent or more — will need to approve the budget for it to pass.

To give taxpayers an idea of the estimated impact a 5.9 percent tax levy increase might have on their bills, Finnerty presented examples using the median home assessment values in each of the municipalities in CCSD.

For a home with an assessed value of $266,100 in the Town of Cazenovia, a 5.9 percent increase would mean an estimated projected increase of $310.90. For a home assessed at $210,300 in the Village of Cazenovia, the estimated increase would be $245.71. For a home assessed at $136,700 in the Town of Fenner, the estimated increase would be $175.92, and for a home assessed at $179,900 in the Town of Nelson, the estimated increase would be $231.51.

Finnerty emphasized that the numbers

he shared when discussing the impact of the tax levy increase were estimates.

“The tax base generally increases every year and that’s a great thing for us,” he said.

“As our tax base increases, the tax rate goes down, so the rates could go down from here. Other things that can happen to individuals, like assessment changes, STAR changes, and exemption changes, can completely throw this off for individuals. So, I just want to keep saying that these are estimates.”

The district was recently notified by Sen. Al Stirpe that some state funding will be restored; those funds are included in the district’s budget proposal.

Finnerty said it is possible that additional funds could be restored. If additional foundation aid is awarded to the district in the final New York State budget, the appropriated fund balance and the tax levy will be reduced equally to match the increase.

During the meeting’s second public comment period, Mark Tugaw, a seventh-grade social studies teacher at Cazenovia Middle Budget

13

Submitted photo

Madison

Sstudents pursuing alternative learning outside the traditional college path.

The company provides scheduled mowing, weeding, brush removal, pruning, plant care, edging, trimming, and seasonal clean-up to the communities of Cazenovia, Canastota, East Syracuse, Fayetteville, Manlius, and Pompey.

According to Maggio, the mission of Scholars Landscaping is to provide professional lawn care and property management services while enriching the community by supporting young entrepreneurs and local schools.

“I want to encourage our youth [to consider] that there are opportunities outside of the traditional schooling path,” Maggio said. “Kids are pressured from a very early age [to think] that success equals getting into a good college, [and that] equals getting a good job. Although following this path works for some children, it is not the right path, carte blanche, for all. I also see the increasing need for trades in our community and an increasing lack of tradespeople to do the work. I want to provide another path to

success outside of the traditional college path. Some of the most successful people I have met do not have college degrees, own their own businesses, and apply themselves to work to their strengths.”

Rather than own Scholars Landscaping by himself and hire employees, Maggio has decided to partner with young adults and high-school students to make them shareholders in the business.

At the end of the season, they can sell their shares back to the company or stay on as an owner.

Partners gain many of the skills required to own a business, such as setting schedules, managing time and expenses, communicating, forming interpersonal and customer relationships, and developing a good work ethic.

Richard Cunningham, who is originally from Utica and attended Proctor High School, joined Scholars Landscaping in 2021 as the company’s first partner. He has stayed on as an owner ever since.

“After high school, I moved out to Canastota to raise a family with my fiancé, Jennifer Gladle,” said Cunningham. “I met Matt Maggio, and he pitched me the idea of starting Scholars Landscaping. I absolutely loved the idea and immediately jumped on board. [For the 2022 season], we were by ourselves. As the business grew, the following year we were able to hire our first ‘scholar’ out of Cazenovia High School, Dennis Dougherty.”

With support from Scholars Land -

scaping, Dougherty, who is now in 10th grade, has decided to leave the company to develop his own business, “Last Resort Lawn Care,” for the 2024 season.

“For the last four years, I have been mowing lawns in the Village of Cazenovia,” said Dougherty. “I started off small, just mowing for a few family friends, but last year I got the opportunity to work for

Scholars Landscaping. Both Matt Maggio and Rich Cunningham taught me a lot about how to operate a business, educating me with the back-end details of owning a lawn care company, such as the invoicing and quoting, along with things [like] how to complete jobs more efficiently and how to maintain equipment. Long story short, Submitted photoS

On March 29, 2024, Scholars landscaping, llC, a unique Cazenovia-based landscaping company, donated $1,000 to the Cazenovia Central School District to fund a scholarship for a student going down a trade school path. the business also helped Cazenovia High School student Dennis Dougherty to start his own landscaping company. Business

my experience with Scholars Landscaping really inspired me to take my own business, Last Resort Lawn Care, to the next level. At the end of last season, I bought a commercial John Deere zero-turn mower, which has [allowed me] to largely expand my operation, servicing 30 lawns weekly and counting in the Village of Cazenovia.

I am so grateful for all that I have learned from Christina New, the head of the entrepreneurship program at Cazenovia

“I was honored to find out about the award, especially after knowing the people [who] received it before me,” said Kuper, who was unable to attend the annual partner meeting.

MCt

According to MCT Acting Executive Director Kaytlynn Lynch, tourism in Madison County began in 1991 as Madison County Tourism Committee, Inc.

Then, in 1995, an amendment was filed, and the organization became Madison

High School, and from Matt and Rich at Scholars Landscaping. They pushed me and gave me the encouragement and the knowledge needed for me to continue my own business, and I am forever grateful for their help. I look forward to continuing to learn from Scholars Landscaping and continuing to grow my own business.”

According to Maggio, he and Cunningham continue to support Dougherty and help in any way they can.

“We are offering him advice and mentoring along the way in his new venture,”

County Tourism, Inc. Today, MCT helps maximize economic development by strategically marketing the county’s tourism-related assets.

According to Lynch, the organization has been going through a “reassessment phase” since she took her position a little over five months ago.

“Our marketing strategies are a big part of that current reassessment and planning,” she said. “A few key methods we are branching out into are in-house reel creation for Instagram and Facebook at partner locations and gaining greater access to user-generated content (UGC) through

Maggio said.

In addition to providing mentorship and opportunities to its partners, Scholars Landscaping has committed to donating a portion of its profits to local school districts to fund scholarship opportunities for high school students pursuing an education in the trades and alternative learning outside the traditional college route.

The business made its first donation, totaling $1,000, to Cazenovia Central School District (CCSD) in November 2022.

On March 29, 2024, Scholars Landscap -

collaboration with a company called CrowdRiff. Access to UGC will increase our ability to market the county through visual storytelling.”

Owners or operators of tourism-related businesses in Madison County, such as restaurants, lodging, retail stores, attractions, and events, can apply to become MCT partners at no cost. Partners have access to opportunities to participate in local, regional, and statewide promotional efforts. MCT had 157 renewed partners as of April 5, 2024. A list of partner benefits and the partner application are available on the MCT website.

ing donated another $1,000 to the district to fund a scholarship for a student going down a trade school path. “We intend to donate every year, and in 2025 we will be donating to multiple schools,” Maggio said.

To learn more about Scholars Landscaping, call (315) 935-4652, email support@ scholarslandscape.com, or visit scholarslandscape.com

For more information on Last Resort Lawn Care, call (315) 708-8660 or email lastresortlawncare@gmail.com

“Our tourism partners directly benefit from our new and engaging marketing methods highlighting the diversity of offerings throughout the county,” said MCT Board of Directors President Nell Ziegler in a MCT press release. “During this interim period, we’ve only scratched the surface [of] what is possible with new technologies and communication styles. We look forward to continuing to build awareness of and appreciation for Madison County — a place of lasting beauty, carved by time and tradition.”

To learn more about MCT, visit madisontourism.com

The Cazenovia Fire Foundation 2023-2024 Fund Drive was a success thanks to the following sponsors and the numerous community members who donated to our campaign.

are proud to serve this community and grateful for your generosity.

First observed in 1958, National Library Week is sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and celebrated by libraries across the country each April.

According to the ALA website, ala.org, the theme for National Library Week 2024 was “Ready, Set, Library!” National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature and Newbery and Pura Belpréaward winning author Meg Medina served as 2024 honorary chair.

In her role as honorary chair, Medina reflected on the important of libraries.

“I’m thrilled to serve as the honorary chair of National Library Week for 2024,” she is quoted as saying on the ALA website. “Libraries connect our communities and enrich our lives in ways we may not realize, and one of my greatest pleasures is discovering the unexpected and beautiful things libraries offer. From book groups to lending sports equipment to providing a safe after-school hangout space and so much more, libraries support us wherever we find ourselves on the roadmap through life’s journey. Join me and the American Library Association in celebrating the gift of libraries everywhere and the adventures and opportunities they unlock for us every day. Ready, Set, Library!”

From the Library of Congress and the millions of pieces in its collection from texts and manuscripts to film, music recordings and other significant pieces, to our own local libraries, these facilities have long been a great resource to the communities and the people they serve.

Whether it comes in the form of books, new or old, archived newspapers and in some cases microfiche or more modernized computer data bases or records that have otherwise been archived digitally, or even local historical records, libraries are an incredible resource for information.

Almost any subject one might want to explore can be at their fingertips thanks to the work that takes place at our libraries.

Whether it is getting lost in a great adventure or mystery story, learning about dinosaurs or the pyramids of Egypt, exploring texts on European history or the arts, it is likely you will find something you will enjoy and something that will help further your knowledge in any number of areas at your local library.

While lending and overseeing book collections is still very much at the heart of what libraries do, the reality is that these are facilities that are always adapting and looking ahead to meet the needs of the people they serve.

Today’s library still has stacks of books, but it is also a place where a great deal more has been happening in recent years.

Libraries have carried on their mission as a community resource and have been building on and expanding what that means and how they can serve the needs and interests of their communities.

Libraries have been becoming community hubs in new ways while still focusing on the original mission of libraries, making books and information readily available.

Whether it was guest speakers, musical performances or hosting art exhibits, libraries have been evolving and incorporating new offerings.

There are also efforts such as story times and reading hours and other activities geared toward children, not only as entertainment, but as a means of getting them engaged with the written word and instilling an interest in learning and reading from an early age.

Libraries have also become a resource for internet access for some, particularly in areas where internet providers have been less diligent in creating infrastructure to reach more people.

And libraries have served as meeting places for public forums, social events and fundraisers.

Yes, libraries serve many purposes and can be and mean different things to different people and that is the wonderful part about them, they are incredibly diverse places and places we all can find some appreciation for.

If you haven’t been there is a while, consider visiting your local library.

If possible consider showing support as a volunteer or donating books or supporting a library’s fundraising efforts like book sales in the future and remind those who work there that they are providing an incredibly valuable resource.

My first total eclipse happened on a Monday afternoon in 1949 while sitting in the balcony of Our Lady of Perpetual Help elementary school in Brooklyn.

On this particular Monday, the student body was treated to the movie “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.” The total eclipse was an important part of this musical comedy based on the book of the same name written by Mark Twain.

In the movie, the character played by Bing Crosby is thrown back in time and uses his modern knowledge to save the lives of his friends by convincing those in charge that the darkness covering the sun was by his hand. Twain (Samuel Clemens for those who need to know) took his inspiration, it is said, from a story about Christopher Columbus who used his knowledge of a lunar eclipse to frighten the indigenous people on Jamaica into provisioning his crew. For each telling of this tale, it was the more educated who trumped the less so with the eclipse as the vehicle.

What don’t we know today about a solar eclipse?

Even if our attention flagged in school, our modern media has instructed us about the path of the moon and its track across our continent, the stages of the moon’s shadow as it intersects with our view of the sun, the diamond ring, the

Ramblings from the empty nest

ann Ferro

Baily’s beads, the corona, the absolute need for special glasses and the singular ways that nature responds to the darkness. We may have had some historical view of the meaning of eclipses over time, how different times and civilizations viewed this kind of celestial event, but Monday’s event can’t be captured accurately, even with all of that foreknowledge. And while we know more than the fictional characters in the movie, we were still struck by its unique authenticity, its reminder of something grander, something universal in the truest sense. Our too-familiar Central New York weather provided us with the challenge of seeing anything through the deep darkness of the clouds that moved oh-so-slowly over the sun and the moon’s shadow. The special glasses did nothing to capture the fleeting visions of the transit of the shadow. But all of us strategically situated at the Marcellus Free library could and did celebrate every tiny view of the event.

Of course there was celebration. The library staff and friends prepared a festive offering of refreshments, eclipse glasses, craft tables, games and so forth. It was a merry group of children and adults, some

even wearing aluminum foil hats, prepared to see this once-in-a-lifetime reminder of our place in the universe. The library staff and the friends of the library helped us all focus as the last bit of light turned the world dark and the turkey vultures circled overhead heading to roost.

Meaning comes on many levels and, being there in the darkening gloom, you could sense the deeper, almost primal meaning that this eclipse brought.

We live in dicey times. While we have captured the atom and bent it to our will, we have created weapons of earthly destruction. While we have discovered marvelous cures for disease, we bomb whole nations out of existence. While we cherish our children, we allow the children of the immigrant to die while trying to escape the fallout of man’s cruelty to man. Still, on this day in that place, we, if we thought about it, all of what we are, who we are, what languages we speak, what faith we observe, what leader we follow, could see that although we have knowledge, knowledge is not wisdom.

Wisdom understands the eternal, the universal, that comes with a shadow over the sun.

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.

FANS wAtCHED, NOw wHAt?

No matter how many times read, it still boggled minds – 18.7 million people tuning in.

Random Thoughts

More than watched any World Series game this decade, or any NBA Finals game since 2017, or any Daytona 500 since 2006 or any Masters since 2001 and more than all but four of last season’s college football games.

This, friends, was the average viewership (it peaked at more than 20 million) of the NCAA women’s basketball final where South Carolina turned back Iowa and

What are the choices?

To the editor:

completed a 38-0 season.

Of course, the fact that it got to 18.7 million had little to do with South Carolina or Iowa – the teams, anyway. It was mainly due to seeing Caitlin Clark, most rooting for her, some rooting against her, but all of them watching her.

Hawkeyes.

And it took an extraordinary Gamecocks team, coached by an extraordinary woman in Dawn Staley, to stop Clark. Avenging a semifinal defeat to Iowa the year before, South Carolina replaced all five of that team’s starters, four of whom drafted by the WNBA, and still reached perfection.

Phil blackwell Fans l Page 5

Week after week, as she piled up personal NCAA records and sublime performances, Clark emerged as the best show in sports, more than justifying all the attention thrust on her and darn near delivering a national title to her

I ponder

To the editor:

The history of public schools in New York State is a proud one. Once, every locality had its own local school. Even today, the public school system is often the largest employer in a given area. Our congressman, Brandon Williams, homeschooled his children. That is his right. He and his wife champion school choice. This would be fine if Williams were acting as a private citizen, but he is an elected official who sits on the Education and the Workforce Committee. His focus on school choice shows a misunderstanding of our district.

How does school choice work in rural areas?

Where are the alternative schools for children in our towns and villages? Will Williams fund alternatives for those children? Would a voucher of any size would be enough to pay a parent in most two-parent households to stay home?

Suppose Williams put his energy into support for our existing public schools, working with state and local officials to guide rural schools into the modern age. It would be wonderful to have a representative with a positive vision for American education. Maybe in November we can elect one.

kAtHy ZAHlER erieville

By going a gobsmacking 109-3 the last three years, and with three titles since 2017, South Carolina has replaced Connecticut as the premier women’s program, the target and standard for everyone to reach.

I’m old - I remember - ponder?

Anti abortion government dictate - for what reason?

Remember separation of church and state?

Is America still the land of the free and the brave where immigrants came to live a life of freedom?

WWII, I remember and fear the thinking toward Adolph Hitler’s rampage!

There were Hitler’s pregnancy camps where chosen men and women were brought together to create “The Master Race!”

There were Hitler Youth Camps where the young were indoctrinated to war!

Anti abortion laws? And when these babies grow and do not fit governmental standards - will the government provide education and care for living?

Or will government find a way of disposal to assure governmental choice of “survival of the fittest?” When Neo Nazi rules become real - will America continue to exist as a free thinking nation?

I ponder!

GlORiA B. FERRARA deWitt

Years Ago in History

By CiNDy BEll tOBEy

30 years Ago – April 20, 1994

During the past week, the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter pushed ashore on Long Island Key in the Bahamas, and encountered not restless natives, but sand fleas. According to Nancy Benedict, who was minding the Project Earth Trek nerve center during the one-week absence of her husband, Loren, for a business trip. Karen Dobbertin’s experience with the insect was not a happy one. “Karen said her legs look as if she has chicken pox,” said Mrs. Benedict. Karen reported the beach where they landed was infested with hordes of sand fleas, “which were evidently attracted to her body chemistry.” The wind was extremely high last week, said Mrs. Benedict, which again delayed their departure. However, they were scheduled to leave April 17, and Mrs. Benedict said she had not heard from them Sunday evening and assumed they were on course. In the meantime, Mrs. Benedict said, they’re “doing okay, and having fun. They were in good spirits. A lot of little things have gone awry, but nothing big.”

25 years Ago – April 14, 1999

Residents packed the Burton Street gym, flowed out into the hallways, and even sat behind the stage, most wearing white “No, Mega-Mart” hats, at the much-anticipated Wal-Mart meeting last Wednesday. “I want to stress this conceptual plan is still in a preliminary form,” said Keith Morris, spokesperson for Wal-Mart. “The formal application has not been submitted either to the town or the village, we are still working on it.” Morris said since this was the case there were not “many specifics at this point in time.” However, many residents complained about the lack of specific information. Outbursts of “we don’t want you here,” and “get out” interrupted the Wal-Mart representatives formal presentation. Residents also asked what made Wal-Mart single out the Cazenovia area. “We saw a grossly underdeveloped retail market,” said Morris. Cheers from the audience erupted. “Residents go outside to the area to shop,” Morris continued. “No one has even seen the building yet, and judgments are being made.”

15 years Ago – April 15, 2009

At a public hearing April 7, several community members showed their support for the application of the herbicide Renovate to Cazenovia Lake in order to curb the continuing spread of Eurasian milfoil. “I’m very appreciative of the leadership that the town has shown, the village has shown, the watershed council has shown in supporting this effort,” said Cazenovia resident Richard Husted. “It’s a true community-wide effort.” Husted said that he has seen the quality of the lake swiftly deteriorate over the past decade – he has been a lake resident for 14 years. Bob Greiner represented the Seven Pines neighborhood at the public hearing, thanking the watershed council members. After the treatment at the end of May, it is recommended that water not be used for drinking for several weeks. The village will be providing potable drinking water for those who currently draw water from the lake for drinking.

10 years Ago – April 16, 2014

Sometime during the 1830s or 1840s, a Cazenovia teenager named Helen Sherman handmade a 10-foot-by-10-foot bed quilt using all-natural dyes for the coloring and embroidered the stitching on the back in patterns of heart-shaped flowers. The front pattern includes numerous star shapes called a “mariner’s compass” in a “log cabin” pattern in what would have been incredibly difficult and demanding pattern, taking months if not years to make. Two weeks ago, that quilt – the oldest ever recorded and verified as being made in Cazenovia – returned home as a donation to the library be the descendants of the original quilter. “A quilt like this would have taken a very long time to make; it’s very detailed, a very demanding patter,” said Jonathan Holstein, a former library board member, independent curator and art dealer. “It is the first early quilt we’ve found with an unimpeachable Cazenovia connection, and that’s why we’re delighted to have it. It’s the first one I’ve ever seen. It was a very generous contribution.”

Fans

l From page 4

Bigger, though, is the question about what happens to women’s basketball next, and what the sport, college and professional alike, will do with this unprecedented opportunity.

Some theories have already emerged. One has the audience following Clark to the WNBA, selling out every game she plays in, affording her a spotlight never seen in that league’s 28-year existence.

Another has the focus in the college game shift to its remaining stars – especially UConn’s Paige Bueckers, who will get the full Clark treatment, her personal quest picked up by the masses and endlessly hyped, no matter who else might be present. These are the most common outcomes offered, as if there wasn’t another possibility, one that would really allow the sport to grow and flourish the way it should.

First, it’s okay to keep the attention on Clark. She’s earned it, it seems like she can handle the intense focus on her, and though the pro game might offer a rough

baptism, if she starts draining logo 3-pointers and drops 40 on an opponent who can do nothing to stop her, it will prove what she did at Iowa wasn’t a product of the competition she faced. While they’re at it, though, those new WNBA viewers should pay attention to the greats who are already there. Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, Sabrina Ionescu and so many, many others playing the game at the highest level, super teams like the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty - it’s a true delight. Oh, and the college game remains so compelling. Yes, some of it is about Bueckers and UConn trying to reclaim its long-held throne, but it’s also South Carolina trying to build its own Huskies-style aura, and the wondrous young players like JuJu Watkins at USC and Hannah Hidalgo at Notre Dame showcasing their vast array of gifts. Too bad they exist in a college sports environment that, while giving NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) freedom to athletes, still forces them to compete in ill-conceived, ill-fitting megaconferences forged

in football money.

Great programs like USC, Stanford, UCLA, Oregon State and Utah should battle one another, not get pushed into four different leagues – a reason, for sure, why Stanford coaching legend Tara VanDeveer decided to retire.

Whether it’s developing better players or having better officiating at all levels, everyone associated with women’s basketball, from the pros right down to the youth and the grassroots, must acknowledge and appreciate the opportunity this sport has right at this moment, something decades overdue and a tribute to those who worked in anonymity and obscurity to make it possible.

Nancy Lieberman, Annie Meyers, Cheryl Miller and so many others flew first so Caitlin Clark could soar and lift her sport beyond what could get put on a trophy, ring or medal. Here’s hoping all those who watched now keep paying attention to her – and to her successors, too.

Phil Blackwell is sports editor at Eagle News. He can be reached at pblackwell@ eaglenewsonline.com.

Crouse Health named ‘Business of the year’ by CenterState CEO

Crouse Health has been named a 2024 “Business of the Year” by CenterState CEO, Central New York’s premier business leadership and economic development organization. Crouse received the award in the ‘over 50 employees’ category. The awards were announced during CenterState CEO’s annual meeting on April 11 at the Oncenter in downtown Syracuse. Crouse was one of 30 companies with over 50 employees vying for the award, which was then reduced to four finalists in the over 50 employees category.

Business of the Year nominations were based on a number of criteria including customer satisfaction; innovation; financial performance; fiscal stewardship and fundraising; community leadership and impact; employee engagement; and efforts

County

to support diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and the community.

“Winning Business of the Year in the ‘over 50 employees’ category is a remarkable achievement, and it reflects the collective effort of our entire Crouse family throughout all areas of the organization,” said Crouse CEO Seth Kronenberg, MD. “It would not have been possible without their dedication, passion and commitment to our mission and the Crouse culture. On behalf of Senior Leadership, we congratulate and thank our team for all they do for Crouse. They are the reason more people are saying ‘Take Me to Crouse.’ Moving forward, we’ll build on this momentum, energy and pride, creating even more success and opportunity for our organization, our patients, employees, providers and our community.”

l From page 1

of efficiency measures, such as closing some of the transfer stations and beginning to charge a fee for recyclables; closing the landfill and constructing a transfer station to send waste elsewhere; and entering a public-private partnership for the operation and maintenance of the landfill.

The option of closing the landfill was ruled out because it would not achieve the goal of long-term financial stability and sustainability.

Based on its analysis, Cornerstone recommended that the county prepare a request for proposals (RFP) for a public-private partnership.

To continue evaluating that option, the board of supervisors issued an RFP in August 2023, reviewed the qualified submissions, and identified a potential partner.

Late last year, the board opted not to make a final decision on a proposed operations, maintenance, and lease agreement with the potential partner. The decision was made in response to community feedback that the county should slow down its evaluation process to find the best solution.

Per the proposed agreement, the county would continue to own its landfill and related solid waste facilities, and the private partner would lease the land and run dayto-day operations. The county would be involved in any future changes to the landfill operations and would retain the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation permit.

As stated in the resolution adopted by the board on April 9, a public-private partnership is no longer being pursued as a course of action at this time.

Madison County has also explored the following options: status quo with a significant increase in tipping fees; tonnage expansion at the landfill under continued county management; and tonnage expansion at the landfill through a public-public partnership.

The public-public partnership option arose in 2023

after another county-run waste management operator in New York State responded with interest as part of the competitive RFP process. Additional review and analysis of this alternative is needed, according to the county.

To further explore how and if Madison County could sufficiently increase tonnage on its own, the county hired Cornerstone to conduct a potential county-run landfill expansion evaluation.

A draft report was presented to the Madison County Solid Waste and Recycling Committee on March 26, 2024.

“[Cornerstone] has reviewed potential scenarios [that] involve Madison County continuing to execute the landfill’s day-to-day operations while changing operational and financial variables to optimize productivity to reach the county’s goal of self-funding all current operation and funding future post-closure liabilities,” the report states.

According to the county’s April 9 press release, the board of supervisors intends to continue its review of all options for preserving the waste management program.

“Preservation of services, long-term planning and sustainability, and fiscal prudence will guide the important decisions regarding the future of this community’s waste management program,” said Town of Lincoln Supervisor Melissa During, who chairs the Madison County Solid Waste and Recycling Committee. “The county will continue to rely on internal and external analysis as we consider all factors. Community input and support will be essential to achieving a shared vision for the future.”

The county is planning to announce a series of community informational meetings in the coming weeks to help residents better understand the options and to solicit feedback.

The Madison County Solid Waste and Recycling Committee’s next meeting will be held on April 30 at 9 a.m. and is open to the public.

The county is providing regular updates and background on this issue at madisoncounty.ny.gov/3037/Landfill-Options

Robert wondrack husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather

Robert Johnson Wondrack passed away on April 6, 2024.

Bob was born in Washington, D.C., on April 6, 1937. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1959, with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, and was hired by Aerofin Corporation in Syracuse.

Bob and the lovely Mae McDonald were married in June 1959, and

Donald larkin, 85 loved sports, time with family and friends

Donald Larkin, 85, of Pompey, passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in the comfort of the home he built and lived in for nearly 50 years.

Born in the Bronx and raised in Bayside, Queens, he graduated from Bishop Loughlin High School before attending at Manhattan College. He had two older brothers, Tom and Hugh, and a younger sister, Gerry. He grew up surrounded by friends, family and sports.

OBITUARIES

after starting their family in Chicago, they moved to Dewitt, and later to Cazenovia, NY where they lived for over 40 years.

Bob and Mae also lived at Heron’s Landing on Sanibel Island, FL, before moving to Fiddlers Creek in Naples, FL.

Bob and Mae have three wonderful

He married Sheila in 1961 and they settled into life on Long Island before he was offered a sales position covering Upstate. With his pregnant wife and two toddlers, he moved to a rented farmhouse in Pompey in 1965. A few years later, he began building a house nearby,

Dr. Richard A. Carroll, 75 dentist, fly fisherman

Richard Anthony Carroll, D.D.S., a North Syracuse native, fly-fisherman, community volunteer and lover of all things Irish, passed away on April 6, 2024, at his home in McMurray, PA. He was 75. Dick and his beloved wife of 50 years, Nancy Jo McGuire Carroll, lived in Chittenango until 2015 when they moved to the Pittsburgh area.

working late nights, weekends and holidays, enlisting a few talented friends and trusted contractors. Raised a city kid, he fell in love with country life. Sheila was a rider, and they had horses and many other animals, later importing horses and Connemara Ponies from Ireland.

He was one of the owners of Gartner Equipment Co., an industrial distribution business in Syracuse. He thrived at his work, never retiring, continuing to go to the office daily even at 85. He was industrious and self-reliant and expected the same from his five children, draft-

Dick graduated from North Syracuse High School in 1967, Duquesne University in 1972, and SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 1976. His undergraduate degree in pharmacology helped him work his way through dental school. He began his dental career at Augusta, Maine, moved to Michigan, and came home to Central New York to establish his own practice in 1983 in Chittenango. Nancy was his front-office manager for decades.

Together, Dick and Nancy built a wonderful life, raised three successful children, and served varied roles in their church and commu-

A2

nity. Dick taught his son, Rich, his true passion of fly-fishing, and he coached travel soccer teams for his daughters Heather and Katie. Dick founded and ran an annual fly-fishing apprentice program for decades, taught classes in tying flies, and showed dozens of people the joy of fishing. He was a member of Madison County Trout Unlimited Chapter 680, and his expertise in tying flies was nationally recognized. He fished in the U.S. from the coast of Massachusetts to streams in Montana and from Canada to Costa Rica.

Beyond his passion for fishing, his interests ranged widely in the sciences, history, the outdoors, and current events. He enjoyed telling stories and talking about his interests, a trait that put his dental patients at ease.

children: Tracy Dean (Frank) of Eastham, MA, Linda Wondrack of Boston, MA, and James Wondrack (Sylvia) of Pittsford, N.Y.; four beautiful grandchildren: Carly DeanChow (Richard), Julia Wondrack, Nate “the Great” Wondrack, and Lily Hauschildt. Bob was thrilled to become a great-grandfather to Thea Dean-Chow. Bob was pre-deceased by his sister Sallie Kull, and leaves behind his sister-in-law, June Brooks, three adored nieces and their families: Kathy Morris, Susan Holliday and Laura Brooks.

Bob established RJ Wondrack Co & Airkinetics of Florida, Co., self-employed, Manufacturer’s Representative companies

ing them into his endless carpentry, electrical, mechanical and agricultural projects.

His love of sports never left him. He was one of the founders of both the Fabius-Pompey Little League and Toggenburg Race Association. He coached youth baseball and basketball and served on the board of the sports boosters. He enjoyed taking his children fishing, boating and golfing. He spent many weekends at horse shows and ski races and afternoons at soccer, baseball and basketball games always supporting his children and grandchildren. He loved his many trips to Ireland with Sheila, often with an assortment of their children and grandchildren. Most of all, he loved his time with his family and friends.

When their son, Sean, was injured, they brought him home and cared for him. At the same time, he carried on his business, managed the farm, and never missed anything of importance to his children or grandchildren.

Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfa-

Dick and Nancy made friends wherever they went. They loved hosting friends and family at their annual Christmas party and, of course, for their epic St. Patrick’s Day dinners. Dick and Nancy were members of the Chittenango Rod & Gun Club, where Nancy’s baked goods were legendary. The Carroll family hosted foreign-exchange students and enjoyed visiting them afterward in their home countries. In May 1987, voters elected Dick to the Chittenango Central School Board of Education to finish a board member’s term. Voters re-elected him to four more full terms, and he served until June 30, 2000. He also served on the board of the Sullivan Community Council, and he coached teams in softball, travel and indoor soccer, and Chittenango’s first travel lacrosse team.

In 1998, Dick was inducted onto the North Syracuse Central School District Wall of Distinction. In a newspaper interview about the induction, he said if he wrote a book the dedication would say: To my wife, Nancy, for putting up with me. Dick died from the effects of progressive supranuclear palsy, diagnosed in 2018. He was

- designing air-filtration and heat transfer systems for firms such as GE Gas Turbines.

Bob enjoyed spending time with his lifelong friends, golfing, boating and summer vacations at the beach, watching his children’s sports, and spending time on Cazenovia Lake with his grandchildren.

This June is Bob and Mae’s 65th wedding anniversary.

It was serendipitous that he passed on his 87th birthday.

Please celebrate Bob by donating to a charity of your choice. The family plans to have a service and celebration-of-life when Mae returns to Upstate New York.

ther and friend. He lived a full and good life and will be greatly missed.

He is predeceased by his loving wife of 57 years, Sheila Larkin. Surviving are his four sons, Christopher (Sheila) Larkin, Terence (Debora) Larkin, Sean Larkin and Matthew (Tricia) Larkin; daughter, Katie Gordon; 12 grandchildren; his sister, Gerry (Arthur) Black; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours were Wednesday, April 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel, 7191 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. A mass of Christian burial was held Thursday, April 11, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 7386 Academy Street, Pompey. Burial was in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Pompey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to AccessCNY accesscny.org/donate For guest book, please visit scheppfamily. com.

predeceased by his parents, John C. and Rita (Langenmayr) Carroll of North Syracuse. He is survived by his wife Nancy; daughters Heather Carroll Carrington of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Dr. Kathleen Carroll Castrodale (Alex) of Pittsburgh; son Richard (Natalie) of Leesburg, Va.; four grandchildren, Anelise Lila and Eamon Alexander Castrodale and Griffin Daniel and Victor Brian Carrington; two brothers, John (Laura) of East Syracuse and Tom (Marianne) of Farmington; a sister, Sue Carroll Linhorst (Stan) of Manlius; eight beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of dear friends.

Dick was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Chittenango and St. Benedict the Abbot Church, McMurray, Pa. A requiem mass was celebrated at St. Benedict the Abbot, 120 Abington Dr., McMurray, PA on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. A celebration of life for Dick will be held later in the Syracuse area. Dick will be interred with his parents at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cemetery in Minoa, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation at t2t.org

Robert wondrack

Donald larkin

Dr. Richard A. Carroll

Charles l. Davis, 98 retired teacher, coach

Charles Lester Davis, 98, of Erieville, died peacefully on Thursday April 4, 2024 in the comforts of his own home where he had lived independently until just weeks ago. He was born in Nelson, N.Y., on Dec. 27, 1925, to Charles and Eloie Davis. He married Virginia Lyga on Dec. 11, 1947, and they were married for 72 years before her death in 2020.

Lester was a much-loved math teacher and coach with the Cazenovia Central School Dis-

Margaret Shephard, 85 loved singing in the choir, family camping in the adirondacks

Margaret Thomas Shephard passed away on April 6, 2024, at the age of 85, and finally was able to join her beloved husband in heaven. Margaret was born on Jan. 21, 1939. She graduated from Fabius High School in 1957, married her devoted husband, Dave in 1959 and lived most of her life in Fenner, N.Y., until moving to Morrisville, N.Y., in 2020. She and Dave raised five children on the

trict from 1967 to 1985, the same school that he graduated from in 1944. After retirement from CCSD, he worked for 10 years at the Developmental Learning Center at S.U.N.Y.

Morrisville College where he helped many a struggling nursing student and athlete through their mathematics classes. He was a member of the Cazenovia United Methodist Church and the Grand Lodge of Free and Ac-

family farm and was a loving host to many other kids during their married years. Margaret never met a stranger and had a heart to help others. She was always reaching out in every way to those in need. She loved opening her home for summer cookouts, dinners with friends, family reunions and just any reason to get together. She also loved the annual family camping in the Adirondacks. Margaret was a planner and was actively involved in whatever church she was a member of. She had a huge impact on the lives of so many children as the EHBC AWANA Com-

cepted Masons of the State of New York. Lester loved summers at Hatch Lake and winters in Myrtle Beach, he was an avid gardener and was delighted to be the favorite “hired” hand for his son’s Hawknest farms. His memory remained sharp throughout his life and he relished in sharing stories of his time in the Navy during WWII where he served as a Fire Controlman Third Class on the USS Dayton (CL105) from 1944 to 1946.

Surviving are his children, Richard (Lori) Davis of Liverpool and Tami (Ritch) Selfridge of DuBois, PA; his son-in-law, David Clements of New Hartford; his daughter-inlaw, Nancy Davis of Cazenovia along with 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

mander for many years. She loved playing the piano and singing in the choir. Margaret’s favorite songs were “Amazing Grace,” “How Great Thou Art” and “Because He Lives.”

She is survived by her children, Richard (Kristy) Shephard; Beth (A.J.) Keville; Michelle (Bill) Baxter, Lynne Shephard and Deborah (Ken) Moynihan; her sisters, Elizabeth Martans and Eleanor Parker; grandchildren, Megan Shephard, Crystal, Jonathon, and Matthew Carr, Jennifer and Bradley Guilford, Trenton Zophy, Emma and Morgan Moynihan; her great-grandson, Robbie Carr as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Mar-

He was predeceased by his wife Virginia in 2020, his son Charles “Charlie” C. Davis in 2019 and his daughter Kathleen Clements in 2008.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 4 p.m. at Michael E. Brown Funeral Services, 2333 Fenner Road in Cazenovia. Calling hours were from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home prior to the service. Graveside services were 11 a.m., Thursday, April 11, 2024 at the Welsh Union Cemetery in Nelson. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CAVAC, 106 Nelson St., Cazenovia, NY 13035. To leave a message of sympathy for the Davis family, please visit michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.

garet was predeceased by her devoted husband, David; her siblings, Grace, Terry, Linus and Francis Thomas, Marion Hatch, Maude Lippert and Dorothy Lee. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Crouse Community Center, Morrisville for the loving care shown to both their parents during their stay.

Calling hours and ser-

Margaret Shephard

Send your events to Alyssa Dearborn at adearborn@ eaglenewsonline.com.

Notices must have the date, time and location of the event. The deadline for submissions is 10 a.m. on Friday for the following week’s editions.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

Pizza for Pride 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Buyea’s True Value Lot. Featuring Toss & Fire Pizzeria. Benefits Cazenovia Pride.

APRIL 19-21

Cazenovia Earth Day Weekend

Cazenovia celebrates Earth Day with a variety of events hosted by local organization. Join for clean-ups and free activities and workshops. www.unitedclimateaction.org.

FRIDAYS APRIL 19-JUNE 14

Memory Care Corral

$10 per person. Therapeutic equine assisted services for individuals with memory loss. Registration required: rebecca.schafer@ariseinc. org. memorycarecorral.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20

Cazenovia Heritage: A New Old House 2 p.m. Cazenovia Public Library. Pat Carmeli presents about building her home using salvaged historic materials. Free. Roast Beef Dinner 4:30 p.m. Town of Nelson Building parking lot, 4085 Nelson Rd. Drive-thru pickup. Preorders encouraged. Call 315-655-9844 to order. $15 per dinner.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21

Kennedy Campaign Ballot Access Petition Party

APRIL 22-26

April Break Camp

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Jamesville Dewitt Middle School. $195 for residents, $225 non-residents. Field trips include the Fun Warehouse, Movie Tavern, Skyzone, and bowling. Campers need to bring a bagged lunch, snacks, and water bottle every day. selsey@ townofdewitt.com.

Spring Break Talent Showcase

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. ESM High School Auditorium. For grades 6-12. $145 per student. Cast members will learn songs, dances, and acting scenes from musicals, plays, and movies. Performance will be April 26. selsey@townofdewitt.com.

April Break Basketball Camp

9 a.m.-12 p.m. for Grades 4-7. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for Grades 8-12. Jamesville Dewitt High School, Main Gym. This camp is for honing fundamental skills and fostering a passion for the game through instruction, games, and competition. selsey@ townofdewitt.com.

APRIL 26-27

Community Tag Sale Friday: 6 p.m.-7 p.m. $5 preview sale. Saturday: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. free admission. Manlius Senior Center. Find jewelry, home decor, artwork, collectables, and more while supporting the senior center.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Free Document Shredding

8 a.m.-11 a.m. Buyea Rd. Resi-

12 p.m.-4 p.m. Erie Canal Brewery, Canastota. Sign the petition to support a third party choice, enjoy craft beers and food, and support a local business.

dential Station, 6666 Buyea Rd., Canastota. Madison County residents can bring up to four filing boxes per vehicle. No magazines, junkmail, or photos. No business waste.

ONgOINg

MONDAYS

Mindfulness and Meditation with Ava

12 p.m.-1 p.m. Clear Path for Veterans. This workshop will provide participants the opportunity to destress and learn about different techniques and skills.

TUESDAYS

Baby Storytime

10:30 a.m. Story Garden, Cazenovia Library, 100 Albany St. Bring your baby for a lapsit story time! Features interactive movement and singing. Children under 3 only.

WEDNESDAYS Weekly Woodcarving for Veterans

9 a.m.-12 p.m. Clear Path for Veterans, Chittenango. Meet in the woodshop for woodcarving and camaraderie overseen by a volunteer. Canteen Luncheon

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Clear Path for Veterans, Chittenango. Join the Clear Path family for lunch! Menu changes every week. Complementary, no registration required.

Family Storytime

10:30 a.m. Cazenovia Library. Join Ms. Jenna for stories, songs, and fun!

MONDAY-FRIDAY Electronic Recycling

8 a.m.-3 p.m. LOJO Technology, 634 Birchwood Dr., Oneida. Free, year round electronic recycling. No appointment needed. Madison County residents only.

THURSDAYS Preschool Story Hour 1 p.m. Cazenovia Library. Join Ms. Debora in reading books for preschoolers, with

win was the 10th in a row for the “Eastern Lakers” dating back to the fall of 2018.

What made it more impressive for Cazenovia was that it does not have a home track this spring. The Lakers spent the preseason practicing in the gym, in local parks and on streets near their school.

Many of the girls were competing in their events on an actual track for the first time during the meet, but it hardly mattered.

Susie Pittman led the team with four first-place finishes, including State Qualifier eligible performances in the pole vault (9 feet 6 inches) and

By PHil BlACkwEll

On its new home turf last week, the Cazenovia boys lacrosse team welcomed two different opponents, determined to establish itself among the prime Section III Class D title contenders.

The Lakers were 1-1 going into last Tuesday’s game against Jordan-Elbridge, one where its defense took charge in the middle stages and led to a 9-4 victory over the Eagles.

A week had passed since a 13-6 loss to Christian Brothers Academy, and in that time Cazenovia worked on preventing chances, which it did after it took a 3-2 lead on J-E through one period.

Over the course of the entire

By PHil BlACkwEll

Whether it was close or otherwise, the Cazenovia baseball team dealt with some early-season adversity. The Lakers were poised for another big victory at Central Square last Tuesday afternoon, only to see it

By PHil BlACkwEll

triple jump (34’9”. She also won the 400-meter dash in 1:02.50 and the high jump by clearing 4’8”.

Claire Marris was a double winner on the track, capturing the 100 meter hurdles in a State Qualifier time of 16.98 seconds and the 200 meter dash in 27.91.

Elsewhere, Marris also took second in the 400 hurdles (1:17.38) and helped the 4x100 meter relay of Audie Spring, Izzie Stromer-Galley and Meghan Mehlbaum to first place in 52.47 seconds.

Mehlbaum earned a victory of her own in the 400 hurdles in an exceptional early season time of 1:12.18 and led off the Lakers’ winning 4x400 meter relay. Reid McMurtrie, Alyssa Wardell and Ava Eno rounded out the relay, which posted 4:24.25. McMurtrie also anchored the 4x800 meter relay of Lily Kogut, Olivia Ruddy and Lauren McLean that prevailed over Skaneateles in a time of 10:35.83. Auburn was the overall winner in the event in an exceptional time of 9:51.55. McMurtrie was less than half a second behind Pittman in the 400, taking second in 1:02.90.

Stromer-Galley also had a major impact, taking second to Marris in the 200 in 28.60 seconds and second in the 100 behind Auburn’s Tiera Ly

second and third quarters, the Eagles were shut out. Thus, the Lakers’ 4-0 second-period surge proved decisive as Tucker Ives turned everything back, eventually getting 12 saves.

D.B. Falge led the way, netting three goals and adding an assist. Alex Kuper and Owen Porter both scored twice, Kuper contributing an assist. Paul Mitchell had a goal and two assists as Finn Hagan also converted. Basil Sayre contributed an assist.

Tully would visit two days later, and the Lakers’ formula – play strong defense, earn timely goals – emerged again in the course of a 7-5 victory over the Black Knights.

Arriving with a 3-1 record,

get away late in a 6-5 loss to the Redhawks. Boosted by a four-run second inning, Cazenovia quickly got in front, only to have Central Square strike for three runs in the bottom of the fourth to pull within sight. They traded runs in the fifth. Then, clinging to a 5-4 advantage

A unique opening assignment greeted the Cazenovia boys track and field team last Wednesday afternoon at Holland Stadium when it took on its Laker rivals from Skaneateles while also facing a strong Auburn squad.

Cazenovia did win the “Laker Cup”, topping Skaneateles 91-50, but by that exact same score the Maroons were able to prevail over the visiting Lakers and sweep the team honors.

Braden Carnahan beat all individuals in the 110-meter high hurdles, the junior’s time of 17.44 seconds well clear of the 19.19 from Skaneateles’ Ryan McCrone. He also finished third in the long jump, going 18 feet 4 inches ahead of Wyatt Scott’s 18-foot effort.

Tristan Field-Bradley, Nolan Campagna, Caleb Gilmore and Eliot Comeau were second (8:49.54) to Auburn’s quick 8:19.16 in the 4x800 relay, with Comeau second in the 400-meter dash in 52.67 seconds, just behind the 52.36 from the Maroons’ Nate Bennett, and Campagna second in the 400 hurdles in 1:08.55. Gilmore took second in the pole vault,

in 13.51.

Dinah Gifford and Abbie Comeau led the Lakers in the distance events, scoring in both the 1,500 and 3,000meter runs in sectional qualifying times as they were paced by Auburn’s Kyleen Brady and Skaneateles’ Lucy Fleckenstein. Lily Kogut was Cazenovia’s top finisher in the 800, scoring against both teams in sectional time of 2:36.47.

Maddy Rothfeld picked up right where she left off from her outstanding indoor track season, winning the

Tully took more shots and had more opportunities, but again Ives was up to it, recording his second consecutive 12-save outing and also leading the team with six ground balls as Cole Frazee got five ground balls and Finn Tobin had four ground balls.

Cazenovia got away with a single line of production, Kuper earning three goals as Falge twice got assists to go with his pair of goals and Porter had the other two goals, Mitchell adding an assist. Moving to girls lacrosse, Cazenovia put up plenty of goals in last Tuesday’s game against Syracuse City, but not enough of them to get to the win column.

shot put in 31’1” and the discus in 87’5”. Karly Vaas (25’10”) and Alayna Berson (24’6 1/2”) were close behind in the shot as Cazenovia claimed the first six places in the event. Olivia Morse threw a career best of 80’7” in the discus and Becca Brooks added a 72’10” effort as the team took the first nine spots.

Audie Spring was outstanding in the jumps, taking second in the long jump at 14’5”(four inches ahead of Wardell’s 14’1”) and second behind Pittman in the triple jump at

The Lakers’ 18-11 defeat was largely set up by falling behind 9-3 in the first half, something it could not overcome despite Charlie Prior netting five goals to lead her side. Maddie DeAngelis scored twice and got three assists, with Hayden Bubble also getting two goals. Izzy Stromer-Galley and Tara Pratt had the other goals and Eliza Smith recorded nine saves.

going to the bottom of seventh, the Lakers got the final two outs, but were unable to close it out.

Cy Abbott walked both Anthony Miga and Michael Baker. Miga reached third base, then scored on a wild pitch before Nico Garlic singled home Baker with the decisive

clearing 9 feet 6 inches, while Finn Worthington was third with 9 feet and Charles Wilcox fourth by topping 8’6”. Comeau got second place in the high jump, clearing 5’6” to trail the 5’8” from Auburn’s Amadi Onyeani.

Jake Woolbert’s 4:41.02 in the 1,600meter run only trailed the 4:35.93 from Auburn’s Austin Ferrin and he added 10:22.94 in the 3,200-meter run. Gilmore took third place in the 800 in 2:06.80, a race where the Maroons’ Keegan Brady broke two minutes in 1:59.37.

Charlie Compeau, in 12.13 seconds, edged out Carnahan (12.14) in the 100-meter dash, with Compeau, Carnahan, Scott and Finn Worthington going 46.39 in the 4x100 relay to Auburn’s 44.36.

Worthington proved a close second in the 200-meter dash in 23.53, right behind the Maroons’ Jerry Czyz in 23.38, before he helped Scott, Field-Bradley and Comeau run the 4x400 in 3:51.87.

Ethan Burry’s 39’10” throw in the shot put was second to Skaneateles standout Will Feeney’s 49’1”, with David Tugaw (34’10 1/2”) edging Jonathan Sweet (34’9 1/2”) for fourth place. Sweet got third in the dis-

On Syracuse’s side, Alayna Wood piled up five goals and five assists helped by Brigid Burns (four goals), Cecilia Witherel and Abby Delaney (three goals each). All of this turned around Friday against Mexico. Cazenovia roared out of the gate, eventually building a 12-1 lead on the Tigers by halftime on the way to a 16-8 victory.

run, Central Square bouncing back after blowing a 7-1, seventh-inning lead to Bishop Ludden in its previous outing. Jack Donlin, Taven Reilley and Joey Awald each got credit for RBIs , Abbott working two-plus innings of relief after Donlin went 4 2/3 innings, striking out 11 but al-

cus with 101’7” and Judah Ossont’s triple jump of 37’1 1/2” was third ahead of Scott’s 35’11”.

Following all this, the Lakers were back in action Saturday at the Tully Coed Spring Invitational, where with 78.5 points it trailed only the 85 points put up by Clinton.

By PHil BlACkwEll

The sudden swing from snow to recordhigh temperatures led to a successful seasonopening match for the Cazenovia boys tennis team.

The Lakers are attempting to build upon a remarkable 2023 season with Section III titles and advancing all the way to the state Division II semifinals at the USTA-Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.

And the Lakers started 2024 by stuffing Mexico 5-0, with Traian Cherciu getting a 6-0 shutout over William Mills and Garret Lounsbury handling Owen Gilbert by those same scores. Though he took a bit longer, Gabe Reagan beat Jared Becker 6-0, 6-3.

DeAngelis, in particular, stood out, having a part in all but four of the Lakers’ scoring plays by amassing eight assists, one of the highest totals in program history, to go with four goals.

Bubble also scored four times, adding a pair of assists. Prior dominated in the center X with 16 draw controls and got three goals and one assist, with Pratt and Sally Hughes both converting twice and single goals going to StromerGalley and Wynslet Skidmore.

Three games awaited the Cazenovia boys this week, two of them against Westhill with a battle against LaFayette/Onondaga in between as the girls Lakers host Westhill and Southern Hills before a Saturday trip to Marcellus.

lowing four hits and three walks. Cazenovia then saw its two-game series with Solvay pushed back, one to May 11, and a series with Marcellus was set for early this week before the Lakers traveled to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for games during next week’s school break.

Comeau was victorious in the high jump, the only athlete to clear 5’8”, while Carnahan got second place in the 110 hurdles in 17.07 seconds. In the 4x400, Comeau, Worthington, Field-Bradley and Scott roared to a winning time of 3:36.86.

Moving to doubles, Cazenovia pulled off two more shutouts. Evan Molloy and Max Reger roared past Sam Britton and Kevin Perlet 6-0, 6-0 and, by that same margin, Cy Lurie and Ethan Camp beat Norman Freeman and Ethan Gilbert.

Friday’s 5-0 shutout of Onondaga involved single-set matches to eight games. Reagan and Robbie Dorus got 8-0 singles wins over, respectively, Caleb Fowler and Melissa Sanborn, with Reger topping Brayden Cutri 8-2.

Getting a chance to play doubles, Cherciu and Lounsbury responded by blanking Maggieann Morris and Nolan Morris 8-0, while Godfred Assante and Fred Kagy earned a point, winning 8-0 over Olivia Bloom and Rylan Morris.

29’9

1/2” with Eleanor Mongeau close behind for third at 29’4”. Sophie Reger backed up Pittman in the pole vault with an 8-foot effort while Anna Reksc cleared 6’6” for third in her first competition. Reger also scored in the high jump at 4’4” behind Pittman and Mehlbaum (4’6”) as the Lakers opened its season at 2-0 in pursuit of another sectional title.

The Cazenovia girls track and field team retained the ‘Laker Cup’ in last Wednesday’s season opener, routing Sknaeateles 122-19 while also defeating Auburn 93-48 as Susie Pittman led the way with four first-place finishes in the pole vault, triple jump, high jump and 400-meter dash.

School, commended the district administration and BOE for their efforts to be responsible to the taxpayers.

Tugaw stated that he currently pays school taxes in CCSD, Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District, and South Seneca Central School District. He recently also paid school taxes in East Syracuse-Minoa Central School District and Fayetteville Manlius School District.

“My taxes here are by far the lowest, so thank you for what you are doing to keep them that way,” he said. “[In Manlius,] I was in a house half the size of my Cazenovia house [and was] paying significantly more. With children in this district, I feel like they have more opportunities here because of the size of the district.”

April 11 budget message

CCSD announced its solution to the 202425 budget gap in an April 11 budget update on the district website.

“Because of rising costs and our district’s decrease in state aid allocated in the governor’s budget proposal, we are facing hard decisions this year — and expect to again next year,” Superintendent Christopher DiFulvio said in the update. “We truly appreciate everyone who has shared their questions, concerns, and ideas with us. Your input has been essential as we navigate these challenging financial decisions.”

According to the district, the proposed combination of tax levy increase, fund balance use, and cuts allows the district to preserve

ere are now “5” categories of golf irons that are being manufactured by the “10” largest golf companies in the world: Callaway, Titleist, Taylor Made, Ping, Mizuno, Srixon, Cobra, Wilson & PXG.

e chances are very good that about 90% of us are playing irons that have the name of one of these companies branded on our irons. e more important issue is, “Are we playing irons that are 100% suited for our golf game”? To this question I would say unequivocally…NO!

For the last several years, all of the major golf club manufacturers have been making golf clubs that will not only “ t” your skill level, they will also match nicely with your body type; height, weight, swing speed, age, etc.. When you play an iron in the category that matches your golf game, your scores will improve.

Golf irons are constructed by either a forging or casting process. Fully forged clubs, such as blades are built for exceptionally talented golfers who are capable of striking the center of the club consistently for workability and feel. Fully cast or cavity back irons are for beginners and game improvement players looking for forgiveness and accuracy.

e following description of the categories should allow you to identify the irons that best suite your golf game.

Types of Irons…..

Blades: Classic blade irons have small, thinner heads that are designed to o er great looks, feel and control. blades typically have weak lo s and produce good spin rates but less distance. Only Tour Pros and very elite amateurs should be playing this type of iron because they have a very small “sweet spot” on the face of the club which makes them di cult to hit and control consistently.

Players Irons: is type of iron is aimed at low, single digit handicappers to elite golfers. ey have many similar characteristics to blades but they have more technology to boost distance and forgiveness . If you hit your irons consistently well and don’t need much

more student programming and staff positions than initially anticipated and is intended to alleviate the burden on taxpayers.

“Our student programming and our staff at Cazenovia are the backbone of this district,” DiFulvio said. “The reality of having to make cuts is incredibly painful. There are no easy choices here, but it’s our responsibility to find the best solutions to close the gap, sustain the excellence of our district, and preserve our identity.”

DiFulvio also extended his gratitude to the community for their advocacy regarding state funding and their input throughout the budget development process.

“We’re also thankful to the board of education for their unwavering support of our students, staff, and budget initiatives,” he concluded. “Their dedication enables us to maintain the high standards of education and support that our community expects and deserves.”

important budget-related dates

The district is planning to hold a community event at the Emory Avenue Complex on Monday, May 13 from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the school, meet the superintendent, and receive a budget presentation from Finnerty.

“We are going to be marketing that to people in the community that don’t have kids in the school,” DiFulvio said during the April 15 BOE meeting.

A public hearing on the proposed 2024-25 budget will be held on Tuesday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

The annual budget vote and election will

help with distance and forgiveness, this category may be for you. Many PGA Tour players also use this type of club.

Players Distance Irons: is has become an extremely popular category of iron that was spearheaded by the Taylor Made P790 iron. e other club manufactures quickly followed. ey create more ball speed and distance than blades or players irons and although they don’t usually generate quite as much spin, their higher launch helps the ball stop on greens because of the steeper angle of decent.

Mid-handicap/Game Improvement

Irons: ese exceptionally versatile irons o er plenty of distance and forgiveness. ey look and feel extraordinary for the majority of golfers with mid handicaps. ey can be used by high handicap golfers who are competent ball strikers as well as low handicap golfers who prefer the value of extra forgiveness.

High-handicap/Slow Swing Speed

Irons: is category is absolutely the best for beginners and those golfers who don’t play o en. ese irons are bigger, have more chunky heads and are packed with technology that make it as easy as possible for golfers to hit the ball higher and in the right direction. If you struggle to hit your irons high, straight and far, this category is your best choice.

Do your own homework and then before you “pull the trigger” to buy a set of new or used irons…

take place

2024 KATHRYN FISH LECTURE SERIES

Apr 21 - Dr. Nasri Ghaly - “Dementia”

May 19 - Tania Anderson - “Arise: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities”

June 16 - Pastor Cooper Young - “Anxious for Anything”

July 21 - Mina Bradley-Cauger - “Another Look at Practicing Good Mental Health”

Aug 18 - Dr. Jim Marshall - “Horses I’ve Known”

Sep 15 - Dr. Christina Michaelson - “Are You Happy?”

Oct 20 - Mary Sorrendino “Cognitive Therapy - A Spiritual Connection #2”

Prior to every lecture this season: Free Mental Health Therapy at the Farm 11am-noon (right before the lectures) with Mary Sorrendino, LMHC, CASAC, BCPC

Jim Marshall Farms Foundation, Inc.

www.jmffinc.org 680-242-9310

Public is Welcome (Donations appreciated) at The Farm Attendance is free