The Clinton Courier: 07.02.14 by The Clinton Courier

Vol. 167, No. 51

• CLINTON, NEW YORK • July 2, 2014

Doin’ the Happy Dance

97 graduate from CCS in 83rd commencement

Senior Peter Mackie moonwalks his way to his diploma during Saturday’s commencement ceremony. By Staff

he Clinton Central School District awarded diplomas to 97 seniors during a graduation ceremony on Saturday. It was the District’s 83rd commencement ceremony. Whether it was through on-stage dance moves or official addresses, the theme of the morning for the Class of 2014 seemed to be "follow your own path." Twenty members of the class received diplomas with the mark of

distinguished community service. High School principal Matthew Lee offered a unique take on the welcoming speech, quoting not a philosopher or renowned scholar, but instead a children’s book author. Lee read through “The Best Story,” by Eileen Spinelli, in which a young girl asks family members for advice as she attempts to write, as the title suggests, the best story. In the end, it is the story that comes from the

Cleaning Out Room 202

heart that sounds the best. “I want each of you to follow your own heart and write your own story after leaving today,” said Lee. Then, quoting comedian Jim Carrey, added: “You can fail at what you don’t want to do, so you might as well take a chance at what you love.” Two seats were empty on stage. Lee recognized both Ingrid Xu, who was abroad in China, and Daniel Barrett, who was required to report to basic training ahead of commencement at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. Superintendent Matt Reilly, Board of Education President Mary Lou Lauchert, and four graduates followed Principal Lee with speeches. Valedictorian Olivia Evans was succinct and elegant with her words, preferring to downplay her academic achievements by comparing them to the impressively well-rounded talents of her classmates. Salutatorian Rachel DiCioccio echoed Lee’s thoughts, but added that following your heart does not include slacking off. “We must remember, there are people in the world who are equally amazing and some who are even more amazing than we are,” said DiCioccio. “In order to succeed post-graduation, we really have to push ourselves and we cannot settle.” GRADUATION, page 15

NEWSSTAND PRICE $1

Fourth of July Celebrations Coming to the Village By Esther Mazor

e prepared to be excited and wowed at the community’s annual Fourth of July festivities. The parade kicks off at 7 p.m. on Elm Street. Cars, marchers, trucks and floats will line up on Sanford Avenue. Expect to see Grand Marshall David Burns of The Burns Agency leading the way. A lifetime Clinton resident, Burns is known for his service to both the School and to the community. The parade starts on Elm Street, turns left on College Street, continues to the Village Green, and then heads down Kirkland Avenue. The parade will conclude in the Elementary School parking lot. Later at dusk—around 9 p.m.— fireworks will be shot into the sky from the soccer fields across from the Clinton Pool. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit on, and to stop by the concession stand in order to support our 2013-14 section champion varsity baseball team. Be on the lookout for The Courier’s 1st Annual Mr. and Ms. Clinton winners, Frank Perretta and Claire Burns (see below). Come out and see the spirit of our Village!

Introducing Mr. and Ms. Clinton By Staff

he Courier’s first ever Mr. and Ms. Clinton honor is being presented to Frank Perretta and Claire Burns. After receiving a pile of reader-submissions, the winners were chosen by a small panel made up of community members and a single representative from our staff. Perretta, 71, was chosen for his commitment to more service organizations than you can count on both hands. Following his retirement as principal of the High School—a title

he wore through the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s—Perretta has continued to give back to the community with infectious optimism. Burns, 88, was chosen for her character and her maternal concern, which has stretched far beyond her six children and many grandchildren. Burns came to Clinton in the 1940s, and proceeded to serve the School District, both as an instructor and as a member of the Foundation, with great pride.

School Board Beat

CLINTON, page 4

By Staff

Debby Hepburn begins the long process of taking down the student-submitted gifts from her classroom walls. Written and Photographed by John Howard

or some, 202 is just another classroom, a space for learning off the second floor Clinton High School hallway. For others it’s a mecca, a place where significant educational and personal discovery unfolded during their formative lateteen years; a place worthy of another visit in your adult years. Opinions of Debby Hepburn’s AP English students over the years would likely fall into the later option. Hepburn is one of 10 faculty members retiring at the end of this school year. And while her years of service tally is not the longest of the bunch, her

devoted alumni and classroom clutter might suggest a lasting effect that is less measurable. She agrees that the room, where she’s been throughout most of her 27year career at the School, has become somewhat of “a living force.” “I thought, if you put enough stuff up, they’ll never move you,” she says. “Admittedly, this got out of control, but people kept giving me things.” It’s Friday and she has just returned from rehearsing speeches for graduation with the seniors (see page 16). Her final grades have been approved and for the first time all week—maybe all year—she can take a breath. But wait… A woman in flip flops, a t-shirt and shorts materializes in the doorway. CLASSROOM, page 6

r. Stephen Grimm was officially hired as the next superintendent of schools for the Clinton Central School District. The decision was voted on during a special Board of Education meeting on Monday, June 30. Dr. Grimm’s first day will be August 1. More delays for the capital project are expected as the District moves into the summer session. The project has already been extended through summer 2015, and has been divided into a phase A (2014) and phase B (2015). Timelines will have to be reworked, due to further hold-ups in the State Education Department approval process. Originally only part of phase A, asbestos abatement work is still expected to be completed over this summer. Even with that work, crews will be cutting it close with the September deadline. Teachers, especially in the Elementary School, are advised to take note with classroom preparation. Two new members will sit on the Board of Education for the first time on July 8 during a regular meeting. Megan Burdick and Timothy Thomas will replace Jim Korfonta and Vice President Michael Wade, whose terms expired June 30. Bill Huggins, whose term also expired, was reelected.

Historic Marker to be Unveiled in Village

Peter Hameline and DPW Superintendent Dale Jewell hold the new Historic District sign. Photo courtesy of Richard L. Williams Written by Richard L. Williams

he Clinton Village Board is set to unveil a roadside marker honoring the Village’s Historic District. The brief ceremony will take place at 6:45 p.m. Monday, July 7, on the Green opposite the Kirkland Art Center. A regular Village Board meeting will follow at 7 p.m. The Clinton Village Historic MARKER, page 3

THE CLINTON COURIER 2

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Founded July 7, 1846

A community newspaper serving the Village of Clinton and Town of Kirkland, New York. USPS 135-240 Published weekly on Wednesdays by St. Porcupine, LLC.

56 Dwight Ave., Clinton, NY 13323

Periodical Postage paid at Clinton, NY 13323 Subscription rates: $31 inside Oneida County, $46 outside Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Clinton Courier, P.O. Box 294, Clinton, NY 13323-0294 Publisher Emily Howard emily@clintoncourier.com Executive Editor John Howard john@clintoncourier.com

Illustration by Clinton resident Bernie Freytag. See more at http://medraw.com

Office Manager Blanche S. Richter blanche@clintoncourier.com

Editor’s Note

Copy Editor Emmie Poling Interns Brian Oehlsen, Esther Mazor, and Michael Howard General inquiries info@clintoncourier.com Advertising ads@clintoncourier.com Letters letters@clintoncourier.com Contact 315.853.3490 Fax 315.853.3522 Visit us online: http://clintoncourier.com http://twitter.com/couriercny http://facebook.com/couriercny Please Recycle

The Clinton Courier is printed in Holland Patent, New York by Steffen Publishing. P.O. Box 403, 9584 Main St., Holland Patent, NY 13354 315.865.4100 | http://steffenpublishing.com

Inside this issue 12 CCS Faculty and Staff Members Retire: Read their final thoughts before retirement. Page 7. Interview with an American Hero: A Clinton native plays his part in rescuing Captain Phillips. Page 9. Dog Days of Summer: You love Bob Meelan’s hot dogs, too? Here’s how they’re made. Page 10. The Class of 2014: See all the names of the students who became alumni this past weekend. Page 17. Coach Jean Vicks Scoreboard Revealed: It’s been a long time coming for the field hockey program. Page 19.

The Middlebury Effect When I was in high school, I took Debby Hepburn’s class for four days. I’m not sure if she remembers that, but I certainly do. The exact reason I dropped the class is hard to grasp now, but I am pretty sure the ganache-fueled carnival ride of Room 202 had something to do with it. The stacks of paper handouts, the layers of collegiate logos overlooking my desk, Debby’s unwavering enthusiasm that could fill skyscraper, let alone a classroom—this week, I heard her say she was “tired” multiple times, while proceeding to move about and talk at speeds of a kindergarten playground that had been stocked with Red Bull. Something about that experience in high school—or everything together—was overwhelming. After the four days, I switched out to a different class with a different instructor. The way my career has turned, with language and English arts being so important, looking back on the whole thing is as perplexing as it is funny. With the end of the school year, graduation and all the staff retirements, I’ve been able to spend some time with Debby over the past couple weeks. She has this classic story about Middlebury College. As a non-survivor of her class, I first heard about it this week. Debby had applied to Middlebury, with visions of grandeur about how wonderful her time there would be. Astonishingly, she was rejected. “I love Middlebury,” she says today. “They made a mistake on me but they did me a tremendous favor.” She went to Ithaca College with the intentions of transferring to Middlebury as quickly as possible. Instead, she fell in love with Ithaca, making herself at home and kickstarting a long career in teaching. Everything came full circle when the first pennant she received from a former Clinton student read, you guessed it: “Middlebury College.” Hearing the story, I couldn’t help but draw parallels with my experience with Debby.

Here I was, in the room that seemed to swallow me in the 11th grade, interviewing the person that—for lack of a better phrase— scared me off. But she actually did more than that. After my brief stay in 202, I transferred into Karen Romano’s class. There we read titles like “Frankenstein” and Walter Dean Myers’ “Fallen Angels,” some of my favorite books to this day. For the first time ever, I found myself investing in the stories and wanted to make my own. I learned to love to write and craft stories. It was the same excitement that propelled me to find my way into the Reporter Magazine office at RIT, where for my first assignment, I willingly volunteered for the challenge of reviewing the 2008 bafflingly-terrible rekindling of “Rambo.” (To this day, I’m not sure how that sweat-stained Sylvester Stallone catastrophe made it out to theaters.) It was then that I began to love journalism, or at least the idea of sharing stories and opinions that mattered. During hard times, people love to say that “everything happens for a reasons,” which, in the moment those individuals going through those hard times, is probably the most frustrating thing you can possibly hear. It’s easy to say, “follow your own path,” but putting it into practice is difficult and scary. (Class salutatorian Rachel DiCioccio and speaker Mary Warfel had some good suggestions, though—see page 16.) For what it’s worth, sometimes you do get another chance to look at your situation from a different perspective and develop a new understanding. For me, it was Room 202. Looking back, I still don’t think I could have survived honors or AP English. But even having not taken her class, Debby Hepburn somehow managed to prepare me for the future.

–John Howard, Executive Editor

Village Hack: Clean Your Flag By Brian Oehlsen

Have a thought? Share it on our

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Text The Clinton Courier at: 760-4856 *Please note, this number is not monitored. If you need to speak to someone, call the office at 853-3490

So you have your flag for the Fourth, but is it clean? If not, don’t fret, it is OK to clean your flags. U.S. Flag Code indicates the proper American flag treatment is often overlooked by flag owners, but luckily cleaning your flag is not against the code. If it is just a few spots it is recommended that you use some soap and hand wash it, but if the whole flag is dirty, don’t be afraid to put it in the washing machine on the gentle cycle. If you are dealing with an older flag you should use a cheesecloth vacuum cleaner

attachment and gently blot the fabric to avoid tearing it. The experienced hands over at Clinton Cleaners & Embroidery are available for guidance as you embark on the dirty deed. For certain organizations, they’ll even wave the cleaning fee as a patriotic gesture. If your flag is tarnished beyond saving and is not fit for display, it should be brought to your local American Legion Post to be properly destroyed in a flag-burning ceremony.

Write us: letters@clintoncourier.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 3

A Reluctant Farewell to Matt Reilly

Photograph by John Howard Aaron Pritchard gives Superintendent Matt Riley a goodbye gift and hug. Editor’s Note: On Tuesday, June 24, 2014, Matt Reilly sat through one of his final Board of Education meetings as superintendent of schools for the Clinton Central School District. When it came time for the public to be heard portion of the meeting, a young member in the audience raised his hand. This was Aaron Pritchard, a junior in the High School. What follows is Pritchard’s letter to the Board, which he read aloud in full, leaving not a single dry eye in the room.

ust over a week and a half— maybe two weeks ago we were given an assignment in English class from our teacher Mrs. Scott. It was our final writing assignment, based on the book “Tuesdays with Morrie,” by Mitch Albom. On the paper there were three assignments and we were told to pick and complete just one of them. There was one that attracted me. “Who is your Morrie?” There are two people at CCS that I consider my Morrie. One person who works at CCS came to mind, but I decided to not do my assignment on this person because I didn’t feel that a paper that would only be seen by Mrs. Scott, myself and this person would do this person justice. Mr. Reilly and I met during my seventh grade year, and not for good reasons. I can remember my mom telling me she “didn’t want to answer the phone and hear ‘Hi, this is Mr. Matthew Reilly from Clinton Middle School...’” I finished up my seventh grade year with good grades, two suspensions, and a dislike for my principal. I had always thought that he was out to get me, out to make sure my middle school days were bad but, boy, was I wrong. That thought couldn’t have been further from the truth. In fact, the truth was, Mr. Reilly wanted the complete opposite for me. When I was in eighth grade, he told me that he “wanted me to have fun in school, but also wanted me to realize that I needed to learn, be responsible and behave.” That’s when it started to hit me that maybe he wasn’t so bad after all. It was about midway through the third quarter that year when, one day during Mrs. Scoones’ social studies class, a group of high schoolers came over and spoke to us about a club called Model UN. Me being the history buff I am, I was immediately interested in the field trip I could take to learn about the program and become a better debater. In order to go, I had to first meet with Mr. Reilly and Mrs. Scoones to talk about my past behavior and expectations if I were going to go on this field trip. This opportunity gave me a

realization that my past actions do have consequences and I had to agree that any trouble, whether big or small, would prohibit me from going on this trip. I thank Mr. Reilly for this because without it I don’t think I would be in Model UN today and I wouldn’t be okay with speaking in front of people like I am today which is the second thing given to me from this opportunity. A few weeks after that I arrived to school and heard that our principal had accepted the interim superintendent title. He brought in Mr. Chapman to take his place for the rest of the year. Much like my first encounter with Mr. Reilly, my first encounter with Mr. Chapman was not pleasant, I walked out of the office with a couple things: my last suspension and something that Mr. Reilly said to Mr. Chapman about me that still rings in my head to this very day. “Aaron is a good and smart kid,” Mr. Reilly said. “He needs to just start thinking that about himself.” After I heard that, I wasn’t afraid to go speak with Mr. Reilly. In fact, I had started to turn the dislike I had for him into a like. Mr. Reilly has always been open and honest with me. When I first heard about his intentions to leave CCS at the end of the year I walked down to his office and asked him if it were true and he was honest. He told me that he was leaving. At that moment, I started to reflect on what he meant to me and that is the moment I decided I was going to stand up here and speak in front of all of you tonight. Mr. Reilly was always open to speaking with me, summer, winter, spring or fall, a school issue, a personal issue, or just because. He was always willing to listen to how I felt, or what was going on in my life, no matter what the topic was. When he and I met for reasons that weren’t positive reasons he was always calm, cool and collective; it didn’t matter how angry I got, how much I tried to get him to yell. He wouldn’t. It was like he knew that if he yelled, I would become angrier, and shut off my common sense. The fact that he just knew how to work best with me, and a lot of other students and staff, I’m sure, tells a lot of good things about him. He showed and gave me respect even when I didn’t always respect him, or myself. One thing I struggle with is trust, I do not simply trust someone and I would like to say that over the past four years I have built a trust level with Mr. Reilly that is above my trust with most everyone else in school. He is a man of his word; a man of honesty and integrity.

Before I say my final words, I would like to share this quote said by Page Joseph Falkinburg Jr. with all of you. “Never underestimate the strength you give someone by simply believing in them.” Thank you, Mr. Reilly, for always believing in me. That has made a huge impact on my life. Your simple comment to Mr. Chapman four years ago, and your continued belief in me has given me strength. I am sad to see you leave. I never imagined that it wouldn’t be your hand I would shake as I walked across the stage at graduation next year. All of us here tonight are getting ready to welcome a new superintendent. He is sure to be talIer than you, and probably have bigger feet than you, but the shoes you leave behind at CCS are certainly huge ones. I wish you the best of luck with everything you do in life. This is not goodbye, as I know that we will cross paths again and chat just like we have for the past four years. –Aaron Pritchard, CCS Class of 2015

Past Issues 25 years ago July 5, 1989 A fire gutted a three-story wood frame North Park Row building. A Clinton woman dropped her three young children to safety and then was rescued herself. It was about an 8-10foot drop, but Douglas Magnusson and Joseph Davis had no problem catching the children. No one was injured in the fire. Miss Oneida County Hilary Lopata is reaching for the crown of Miss New York State. Lopata’s original goal of entering the Miss Oneida County pageant was to win the money to help offset her school expenses at the Crane School of Music in Potsdam where she is a junior. Now she will show off her skills with a flute in her next pageant. The Moses Foote Questers enjoyed a busy and enjoyable season this year, members report. Several projects were discussed, one of which was a fashion show of antique women’s gowns and other garments for all seasons at Dibbles Inn in Vernon. James H. Rhodes & Company expects to add up to 185 employees in the next three years under the latest expansion plans for its Franklin Springs plant, a company official says. With more operations being shifted to the Kirkland site than originally envisioned, the company gradually will reach an employment of 200 persons. 50 years ago July 2, 1964 Insurance of a new brochure and preparation of a combination map and business directory was approved by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. The brochure, which will be used to promote the Village, is actually a reprint with minor changes of a brochure written this past winter for the School. Last winter a group got together to discuss the possibility of community theater for Clinton. The idea is still in the formative stages at this level, but it has been announced that a group at Hamilton College will undertake such a venture in the weeks ahead. Steps toward turning the junior high school gym into a two-station teaching room were taken at a special Board of Education meeting Monday. The Board agreed to advertise for bids to purchase electric sliding doors, which will separate the gym into two sections. J. Burch McMorran, state superintendent of Public Works, pointed out this week that New York motorists could save approximately

MARKER (continued from page 1) District received both state and federal recognition in 1982 after a committee of the Clinton Historical Society did the research and made the application. Pictures and a description of each building were gathered and submitted to the state and federal governments. The effort was led by E. Porter Felt and William Seyse and supported by then Mayor G. Harlan Lewis. The Historic District encompasses the central commercial area and radiates out to Utica Street, College Street, Fountain Street, Williams Street, Marvin Street and Chestnut Street. A variety of architectural styles, typical of the mid to late 1800s, are present and range from Greek Revival to mansard to Queen Anne to Romanesque. Still mainly intact, these styles remain as a well-documented and well-maintained district. Interest in preserving the architectural history began in the late 1970s when a home on East Park Row was demolished and a parking lot substituted. A Historical Preservation Commission Law was passed in 1990 basically to preserve the façade of the Village. The new marker was funded by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation of Syracuse and installed by the Clinton D.P.W.

$100,000 in clean-up expenses if complete elimination of highway littering could be achieved for one weekend. 75 years ago July 6, 1939 The Board of Education has announced a reduction in its spending for the next fiscal year. The $2,365.99 is approximately the same as the cut in state aid, which this year is estimated at $130,000. With the exception of a few scattered firecrackers that were set off by the lawless element that delights in being different, this community enjoyed the first Fourth of July since the antifireworks ordinance was adopted. The Village was calm and peaceful over the holiday. Blanche Crippen of Clinton and Margaret Noon Moynihan of Utica have composed a swing tune “I Wish I knew,” which will be played on one of the Hal Kemp programs in the near future, according to Kemp. A law that went into effect Saturday requires all headlights to be dimmed within 500 feet of approaching cars. 100 Years ago July 1, 1914 The canning factory began operations last Friday on early peas and from now on until fall will give employment to a considerable number of people. The pea crop promises to be exceptionally good this year. Village authorities have called attention to the fact that it is a violation of law to shoot off firecrackers in the streets and that it is a dangerous practice, except on the Fourth of July, when it is, of course, expected. The mammoth elm tree in front of St. James’ Church on Williams Street, which is supposed to be one of a number of survivors of the primeval forest that once covered this area, has been undergoing extensive treatment at the hands of Don Risley, our local tree expert. A swarm of bees went to housekeeping in a junction box at the top of a telephone pole on College Street last week and put all the telephones in the neighborhood out of business.

Community

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

The Calendar July 3: The Farmers' Market is on the Village Green every Thursday. Water Aerobics at the Clinton Pool from 7-8 p.m. $50 for members; $60 for non-members Drop-ins: $6 per class July 4: Independence Day Parade starts at 7 p.m followed by fireworks at dusk. The parade starts on Elm Street and proceeds up College Street around the Green to the Fire House and fireworks are at the School. Signature 81 Grand Opening. 17 College St. July 6: Alcoholics Anonymous open topics meeting meets at the Bristol Building at Hamilton College from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. July 7: Game day at the Clinton Pool from 3-4 p.m. July 8: Concerts in the Park kick off. The Monk Rowe Trio. 7-9 p.m. on the Village Green Water Aerobics. 7-8 p.m. at the Clinton Pool. $50 for members; $60 for non-members. Drop-ins: $6 per class. Friends of Basloe Library book sale, Main St., Herkimer. During library hours through July 11. July 9: Craft time at the Clinton Pool. 3-4 p.m.

Announcements • The local League of Women Voters chapter is sponsoring an exciting bus trip to Seneca Falls, birthplace of the women’s rights movement and home of the Women's Rights National Historical Park, site of the 1848 First Women's Rights Convention. The trip will also include a tour of the National Women's Hall of Fame. Open to League members and nonmembers. The trip will depart on Saturday, August 16 at 7:30 a.m. from the New Hartford shopping center. The cost is $55 and includes bus fare, buffet lunch, and admission to both the Historic Park and Hall of Fame. Those who wish can also arrange a separate tour of a local winery where they can sample and purchase locally produced wines from the famous Finger Lakes Region. Payment should be sent by July 31, with checks made out to “League of Woman Voters/Utica Rome.” Please mail your non-refundable check to: Treasurer League of Women Voters Utica-Rome Metro Area PO Box 24 Washington Mills, NY 13479 Space is limited. Filled on a first come, first served basis. Contact: Lorrie Wasielewski, 315-736-7425. • A Taizé worship service will be held on Thursday, July 10, at 7 p.m. at Stone Church on the Village Green, South Park Row, in Clinton. This brief candlelight service of silence, prayer and song is modeled on that of the ecumenical Christian monastic community in France. The public is welcome.

Academics •Mr. & Mrs. Ricky Denner of Clinton are proud to announce their daughter Karen M. Denner has received her master's in Social Work from the University of Southern

California. Karen was a 2006 graduate from Clinton Central School, she went on to study at Nazareth College in Rochester from 2006 - 2010 she received her bachelors degree in social work. • Thaddeus J. Sullivan, 19, was accepted early decision at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). 10,000 applicants apply to fill the 300 available spots. Thaddeus just completed his first year of premed studies at Siena College where he made the dean’s list each semester. This year, graduates of LECOM participated in residencies at Harvard, Albany Medical, Dartmouth and John Hopkins. Thaddeus graduated from CCS in 2013 with academic distinction honors in English, science, math and social studies. He received advanced regents diploma with mastery in science and was a member of the National Honor Society member. He is the son of Dr. Leo and Christine Sullivan. • Macy Madden of Clinton has made the Canisius College dean's list, along with, approximately, only 15 percent of her fellow undergrad students. She is a senior studying animal behavior, ecology and conservation.

Book Talks

"The Business of Counterterrorism," by Nathan E. Busch and Austen D. Givens focuses on the opportunities and challenges that public-private partnerships (PPPs) face in the post9/11 world. 7 p.m. on July 10 at the Library. "Freak Show Without a Tent," by former Clinton resident Nevin Martell, is a grandly hilarious memoir-misadventure that is equal parts "National Lampoon’s Vacation," "Romancing the Stone" and "Crocodile Dundee." 7 p.m. on July 29 at the Library.

Meetings School Board:

July 8: Regular meeting, 7 p.m. in the board room

Library Book groups:

New members always welcome. Wednesday: "The Devil in the White City," by Erik Larson. Next meeting: July 30, 7 p.m. Alateen A fellowship of young people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking. For information on time and place of meetings call: 733-0734 or 794-8622. Clinton Lions Club meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Alteri’s restaurant, College St. New members sought, especially with web and youth leadership interests. Contact Jim Winkler, Membership Chairman, at 853-6355 for more information or an application. Clinton Kiwanis meets Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Skenandoa Golf and Country Club on Norton Ave. Those interested in joining are invited to attend. Contact Karen Ostinett at 235-7104. Survivors of Suicide Support Group meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the 2nd Floor of The Neighborhood Center in Utica, 628 Utica St. For More information, call 315-732-6228. Alcoholics Anonymous holds weekly closed topic meeting Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, 853-5359, and open discussion meetings from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Bristol Center at Hamilton College Campus, 859-4271. Sexaholics Anonymous holds weekly closed meetings on Mondays and Wednesdays in Utica at 7 p.m. For more information, call 707-4600. Sex Addicts Anonymous holds a weekly closed meeting on Tuesdays in Utica at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 695-8772.

THE CLINTON COURIER 4

Library Notes Getting Reacquainted with Reading By Chloe Ford, Teen Columnist, Kirkland Town Library

chool requires a lot of dense reading. Despite the fact that the majority of the books assigned in school are beautifully written and thematically relatable, the deadlines and work that accompany them can make reading seem like a chore. However, I know, and I’m sure many agree with me on this, that reading is quite an enjoyable way to spend your free time. Summer brings more free time for many students. I would like to introduce a number of “summer reads” that, hopefully, will make you consider reading an indulgence rather than a burden. These are lighter books in contrast with the long novels of the school year; however, they still contain significant, relevant themes and lessons. The first book that comes to mind is “The Power of Half,” by Kevin and Hannah Salwen. This is a true story that focuses on taking less for yourself and giving more back to the world around you. Hannah, a fourteen year-old girl, convinces her family to sell their mansion and unnecessary belongings, move into a house half the size of the old one, and donate the money to charity. Hannah and her family change the lives of others, but in doing so, also change their own perspectives on material possessions and what actually makes a person “wealthy.” “The Lovely Bones,” by Alice Sebold, is another book I would absolutely recommend. Just a warning, though: it’s creepy. It tells the story of a teenage girl, Susie Salmon, who is raped and murdered by a neighbor. She then finds herself in her own heaven (she discovers that everyone has their own heaven, defined by their life and the people they know), and is able to watch her family and friends from there. She watches her loved ones struggle to uncover the mystery of her death and deal with her missing presence however they can. “The Secret Life of Bees,” by Sue Monk Kidd, is an incredible book in innumerable ways. Its themes of love, loss and family are timeless. The focus is on a young girl, Lily, living in the south with an abusive father and an African-American maid named Rosaleen. Lily does not know the history of her mother; she only knows that she does not live with the family any longer. Tired of dealing with her father, Lily decides to run away from home in search of her mother, or

rather the story of her mother. On the way, she finds three sisters who work as beekeepers; in the end, they teach Lily more about life than she could have hoped to learn on her own. The story is bittersweet (with a slight emphasis on the sweet) and I enjoyed every word. To vary from the last three books that have more serious themes, I’d like to recommend one called “Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim,” by David Sedaris. Sedaris has written numerous books, all made up of short stories about his own life. The stories are quirky, as is Sedaris himself, but all are absolutely hilarious. Not only are the actual events humorous and bizarre, but Sedaris manages to write satirically whether he is recalling his awkward adolescent years or his mother and father’s failure to ever actually do anything a “good parent” might do. He manages to make even the most serious, sad or embarrassing situations comical, and I loved getting a glimpse into his amusing and offbeat world. The last book I’d like to suggest is “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” by Oscar Wilde. I know I said I would stick with less dense books (which this is not), but this book is exceptional in several ways. Not only is the language and writing exquisite, but the themes of the book are intriguing and I found myself frequently having to put the book down just to contemplate the ideas that were being discussed. It focuses on Dorian Gray, a beautiful and innocent young man who is the subject of an artist named Basil Hallward’s paintings. Lord Henry, Basil Hallward’s friend, begs to meet Dorian, although Basil does not want him to for her fears that Lord Henry will have a negative influence on the young man. He’s right. Dorian adapts Lord Henry’s ideas and beliefs about disregarding good and evil, and living life only for small pleasures. As Dorian grows older, he notices a strange relationship between himself and the portrait Basil Hallward painted of him. (I can’t give this relationship away or the book would be spoiled.) I’m hoping these books are as interesting and enjoyable to others as they are to me; the themes and messages in all are unique and the writing exquisite. I wish you all a happy and relaxing summer, and don’t forget to read! As Stephen King said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

This Week Check Out: Young Adult titles—just in time for summer! 1. "Eleanor & Park," by Rainbow Rowell

4. "Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover," by Ally Carter

2. "Clockwork Angel," Cassandra Clare

5. "The Outcasts," Flanagan

3. "I am Number Four," by Pittacus Lore

John

See you at the library!

CLINTON (continued from page 1)

Ms. Clinton Claire Burns, and Mr. Clinton Frank Perretta. Mr. and Ms. Clinton will be featured in this week’s July 4th parade. They will each receive a gift basket of items donated from our local business

partners. Look for an in-depth profile on both Perretta and Burns in next week’s issue of The Clinton Courier.

Community

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

A Rainy Goodbye

From left: High School seniors Noah Stanco, Steve Williams, Jack Yaworsky, Danny Barrett, Ross Adler, Alec Fersching, Ellen Arnison, Alex Dobrzenski and Lenny Ortiz.

THE CLINTON COURIER 5

Michael LaBrecque Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel

Photo courtesy of Les LaBrecque Major Michael LaBrecque (left) being promoted to Lieutenant Colonel by Rear Admiral P. Gardner Howe (right). By Staff

Written and Photographed by Brian Oehlsen

he torrential downpour came suddenly and without much warning this past Wednesday. One minute it was a light drizzle, the next it was as if someone had turned on a hose. This, however, did not deter friends from coming together and huddling about in the parking lot at the Westmoreland Thruway exit, bringing good tidings for their friend leaving for the United States Air Force Academy. This is the last time Danny Barrett’s friends would see him for a while before he comes back from Colorado. The close knit group of friends huddled together under a plethora of umbrellas, most supplied by Alec Firsching, but they didn’t help much. By the time Barrett arrived, all had come to a point of great understanding that we were going to get soaked, and that was just fine with them. Barrett stepped out of the car and huddled amongst his wet friends

under a tortoise-shell like formation of umbrellas. Signs of good will and luck were brought out of a car and dispersed, and although the ink began to run, the messages were clear. Barrett thanked everyone for coming and told them how much it meant to him that his friends had come to see him off, even in such a downpour. “It feels great to finally be heading out. I'm as ready as I'll ever be,” Barrett said. “I am a bit nervous, but far more excited than I am nervous.” Everyone took turns hugging the Academy-bound grad and individually wished him luck. Then he was off. Although the parting of friends was sad, and the rain hid some tears, there was a feeling of happiness knowing that no matter where life took this group of friends, they would still be close for a long time to come.

Dahlins Welcome a Little One

ajor Michael LaBrecque, a Clinton native and son of Les and Nan LaBrecque, was recently promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel. LaBrecque is a member Clinton Central School Class of 1995, and a 1999 graduate of the United States Military Academy. He holds a master's degree from Central Michigan University. His promotion took place during a special ceremony on the USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on June 12.

STOLEN MONKEYS-Please Return NO QUESTIONS ASKED.

Over the course of the past several days, four wooden monkey statues have been stolen from Cafe J. The monkeys, which depict hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil, and do no evil, are family treasures of Cafe J owner, Jenni Stanton. If you have seen, or took the monkeys, please return them to Cafe J. (315) 853-6656

The monkeys look similar to those pictured above.

swThe odniWWindow swodniW sw odniW King R.A. Dudrak

very Renee Dahlin was born June 24, 2014, to Matthew and Meral Dahlin, Brandon Vt. Matthew and Meral (née Asu) graduated from Clinton High School. Proud grandparents are: Ufuk and Glynis Asu of Clinton, John Dahlin and Alice Root of Vernon Center, and Cynthia Dahlin of Pittsford, Vt. Have a birth, engagement or wedding announcement? Send it to us at news@ clintoncourier.com. There is no charge to have your exciting news shared in the paper.

During his 15-year military career, LaBrecque has served with multiple units to include the 75th Ranger Regiment and the 82nd Airborne Division in various command and staff positions. He is currently assigned to the Special Operations Command Pacific at Camp Smith, Hawaii. Michael was recently selected for battalion command at Ft. Lewis, Wash. He is a veteran of five combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq.

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Leaders for Life International Celebrating 10 Years! High school over-night program at Hamilton College. Students entering grades 9-12 will explore strategies for creating success with ease, discover ways to deliver a dynamic speech, and design service projects that impact their community.

Session 1: July 6 -11 Session 2: July 27 - August 1

Anniversary Special: $795 includes all fees, room, meals, tshirt and more.

Visit http://leadersforlifeinternational.com for more information or call 315-525-3296 to register. A few partial sponsorships are available.

Keep Your Loved Ones Warm And Cozy •With New Windows From The King It's Time To Get Your Sunrooms Started!

Enter the Annual

Fourth of July

Bicycle Decorating Contest

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Fill out this coupon to enter the drawing to win Enchanted Forest tickets. Bring it with you to the Elm Street Parking Lot on July 4 at 6:30 p.m. Name:________________________________ Address: _______________________________ ____________________________________ Age: ______ Phone number______________

The bike decorating contest is open to all, no coupon necessary, but in order to enter the drawing to win tickets to Enchanted Forest, you must fill one out.

THE CLINTON COURIER 6

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Ken Blankenbush Makes Appearance at the Villas

Traci Blaser interviews Ken Blankenbush in the cafe at the Villas. By Staff

tate Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush made a special appearance at the Villas of Sherman Brook as part of its new “Meet the Neighbors” series. Residents and community members met in the cafe for the community event. The hour-long casual conversation, lead the Assemblyman down a range of topics from his marriage and home life, to his farming background, to what it’s like working in the state capitol. “Albany is slow,” Blankenbush said, thinking back on the legislative session that ended June 19. “You’re not going to get everything you want. There’s a lot of compromise.” He emphasized next on his legislative to-do list was working with his colleagues to improve some of the bridge infrastructure in the upstate region. In attendance at the Q&A were representatives from both the Town of Kirkland as well as the Clinton Fire Department. Traci Blaser, the sales manager at the Villas, guided the conversation and made plenty of time for questions from the crowd. Community members were quiet at first, but once the open discussion began, Blankenbush fielded questions

on topics like the extreme lack of skill-based classes like shop and home and careers at the high school level. Other topics covered included health care for elders and Common Core, which he said he agreed with in principal, but was disappointed in its execution. Blankenbush was introduced to the Villas staff through its executive director, Kimberly Martin, who lobbies for adult home caretaking regulations every June. “He was here right before we went through a lot of our major renovations last year, and we got him to come back,” said Martin. “It was great.” A common theme throughout the discussion was the struggles with statewide redistricting, which happens every 10 years. As a resident of Jefferson County, he said, it’s difficult to have a grasp on the issues of the southern areas of his district. Kirkland, for example, is more than a 2-hour drive from his hometown of Black River. Community-oriented events like the “Meet the Neighbors” series help keep him connected with residents. “Because of the distance I have to drive … having a group of people [to talk to], I like that the best,” he said after the event. “I’m more relaxed in that kind of setting.”

Changes Coming to KAC By Staff

onated dollars are being put to good use at the Kirkland Art Center. The Center held its annual meeting last week where it was announced that the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties recently awarded it $16,460 to support its pottery program through facility improvements, the purchase of a new kiln, and employment of a part-time staff member to assist the instructors, manage rental of the space, and lead the marketing and development of the program. The improvements are being made to increase participation by community members. Some funds matching that of the donated funds for the project came from the Raku Fest hosted by the KAC earlier this year, and from donors, classes, and studio rental fees. Work has been done on the main gallery floor, thanks to a private

gift from Sally Carman and Paul Salsbury, dance teachers and longtime supporters of the KAC. Carman and Salsbury’s line dancing classes practice on the floor twice a week. According to the KAC staff, the floor was in “desperate need” of the work, as it hasn’t been redone in more than 15 years. Carman and Salsbury, along with Meg Cardamone of Preswick Glen, were honored at the annual meeting. Preswick Glen received the KAC Community Partner of the Year award for their hosting of “Nine Operas in Ninety Minutes” and their contributions to the KAC Gala, and other events. Edie Weintraub-Danovitz and Louisa Ruffine were elected to the Board, as was new Interim Executive Director Elizabeth Tantillo. She will join the Board once a permanent executive director is appointed.

CLASSROOM (continued from page 1) She enters the room, trailed by her two young children. After a moment, Hepburn places her: Stephanie Werner, Class of 1991. They catch up for a minute, as Hepburn introduces herself to the kids. “This was mommy’s teacher,” says Werner, who has now become a teacher herself—elementary school, in her new hometown in Arizona. This kind of encounter isn’t exactly uncommon for Room 202. It spawned from the same spirit of the alumnussubmitted pennant tradition, where former students have brought in souvenirs of their alma maters. The room quickly became like a shark’s mouth, the perimeter of which is now lined with multiple rows of the collegiate merchandise as its teeth. Over the years, students have filled nearly every square inch of wall space with these gifts. Now upon her retirement, Hepburn is tasked with finding a new home for all the momentos. Looking over the accumulation, which is as full of memories as it is memorabilia, Hepburn estimates that she should be done tidying up by August 1. Then, giving the room another scan, she adds, “Well, maybe September 1.” Pulling down the pennants off their hanging wire, Hepburn shouts out student names with precision. Each banner sparks a flood of new memories. She gives the SparkNotes version aloud: “Anna Cosgrove… Matt May…” she says, holding up Muhlenberg College and Columbia University pennants, respectively. “This was made by Lady Burns, Sarah Burns in ‘08.” ... “This is Winnie.. Winnie Jones. I love Winnie.” And so on. Some of the special items will go home with her but most of them will find a new purpose. Hepburn started a new tradition

this year. In an effort to unload some of the stock, she began giving away some of the pennants to students attending the represented colleges. Senior Ingrid Xu, for instance, was gifted the first ever pennant Hepburn received. The pennant advertised Middlebury College, where Xu will go on to study. She’ll continue the giving effort in her new business, A Write Fit, a college application assistance program she plans to launch this month with Clinton parent and longtime friend Susan Yaworsky. A lot of the books will get donated to this year’s Kirkland Town Library book sale. Her newly-endowed free time will be dedicated to reading, tightening up her golf game, and keeping in touch with the same students who have donated to the effort over the years— though, she shrugs at the idea of starting a Twitter account. It’s obvious that Hepburn is humble when it comes to the particular legacy she leaves behind. She says things like, “It was quite the preoccupation,” to summarizes the (literally) millions of papers she has graded for over 5,000 Clinton students. As she begins packing things away, a task she’s slowly easing into, the idea of leaving her coveted spot is beginning to sink in. She brushes off the dust and stacks the pennants. Soon, several piles are before her. Reflecting back, the piles are a fitting metaphor for Hepburn’s widely-acclaimed and far-reaching influence as an instructor—something she still doesn’t quite understand how it happened. But for now, at least, the nostalgia of all her student memories is chased by pride, rather than sadness. “I feel that I have walked out at my optimal point. I feel that warm glow that one feels with an accomplishment,” she says. “I really couldn’t feel any better.” For the personal reflections of all the faculty and staff retiring this year, see page 7.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 7

12 CCS Faculty and Staff Members Retire Curated by The Courier Staff Twelve individuals from throughout the Clinton Central School District faculty and staff have retired this year, leaving a collective 311 years of service behind. We asked them to reflect on their career at CCS, their feelings about retirement and their hopes for the future of the School. Here are some of their responses. Jean Cook Grade 6 Teacher, 30 years I always had high expectations for the students and enjoyed motivating and challenging them. I believed in experiential learning and recreating events, such as the Renaissance Faire with the entire Middle School gym. Even Halloween was educational—a day where students came to school dressed as historical figures and prepared speeches and skits about their characters. In addition to the opportunities to teach, I will also miss the interactions with the adults who contribute to making Clinton Central School the great school it has been. During my time at CCS, I served as sixth grade team leader, a member of the curriculum council, and co-chair of Clinton’s effective schools team. I will miss the opportunity to continue to create and deliver lessons to students and to be a leader in the District. However, it seems like a good time to leave given the changes that are occurring in this field. Kathy Foote Special Education Teacher, 27 years Clinton is a very supportive community and I am proud and fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend the majority of my teaching career here. After 27 years I will greatly miss my Middle School students who made every day an adventure and my coworkers who are the best in the world. Saying goodbye is never easy but the fond memories I’ve had here will last a lifetime. Jennifer Edmunds Teacher Assistant, 10 years My 10 years in the Clinton High School guidance office have been w o n d e r f u l . I’ve enjoy the students, my co-workers and the supportive administration. I will miss them all. Bonnie Rowlands Bus Driver, 35 years When I started my career at CCS in 1979, I never thought I would be there for 35 years. I remember one past student coming up to me and telling me what he was doing now. Before he left me he said, “I want to thank you for everything you did for me during the years you drove me. It helped to make the person I am today.” Memories like this made my job all worth the 35 years I put in.

I loved talking to the kids. We talked about how school was, to what sports they played. I got to know a lot of them and their parents. About 10 years ago I started making foam magnets. The kids loved them. I had some students come up to me and ask me if I was the driver who did the magnets and if I would make them one. Some students that I drove years back came to me and said they still have them, and that is how they will always remember me—by the magnet that I made for them. I will never forget my years at CCS and all the students I drove. There will always be those memories that will never be forgotten. Editor’s Note: Rowlands retired earlier this year on January 31.

As a young teacher I was initially a bit nervous—the greatest challenge was convincing the High School staff that I did not need a hallway pass. The most significant difference between then and now, and perhaps my favorite part of the job, is that all faculty and staff work as a team for the students. I went into education because I love children and wanted to make a difference in the lives of many. I can sincerely say that I have enjoyed my career more than I expected. The children I have worked with in the District are some of the most challenged, making their successes that much more rewarding. I plan to stay involved and substitute in the District.

Mary Ellen Welchons Registered Nurse, 23 years

Mary Paul Grade 3 Teacher, years

For 23 years, I have had the privilege of providing health service to Clinton Central School. I have been committed to promoting health, safety and the educational success of our students. I have also been blessed to live and work in an amazing community. I will miss the students, their families, the faculty, staff and my fellow school nurses. I have loved taking care of all of you.

There are many dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable teachers with whom I have had the opportunity to collaborate. I think of the faculty at St. Mary’s, who worked with this “green” teacher as she began her career. I think of Cynthia Ellis, who taught me to teach all over again when I came to Clinton. There have been many administrators over the years who all worked hard to make Clinton such a great place. Many parents rightfully expected me to teach, challenge, love, and nurture their children. I believe I have taught over 900 children. Some of my former students are on staff here at Clinton now. I have taught many of my students’ children. A couple of years ago, I even had the granddaughter of one of my first students—it was then that I started

Andrew Bankert Middle School Social Studies Teacher, 35 years It has been a fast 35 years teaching at CCS. When I started here in 1979 we had a Democrat in the White House whose poll numbers were plummeting, rising gas prices and a crisis in the Middle East. So, I guess things haven’t really changed all that much. I will certainly miss the energy and enthusiasm of 12-year-olds. Some of them still want to hug their teachers! (I’m not sure if the Common Core even allows that.) For many kids, the seventh grade is the last year before skepticism, cynicism and “this is so boring” set in. One of the things I have enjoyed the most has been teaching and coaching brothers, sisters and, in some cases, a second generation of Clintonites. Families—the Gales, the Maxams, the Owenses, the Scooneses, the Trevisanis—are what make Clinton so special. Teaching is such a rewarding career because every day there is a story or a memory that will stick with you. Just last week, a seventh grade girl gave me a pencil sketch of Abe Lincoln and wrote, “You are the best teacher that ever were.” Personally, I prefer to believe she was combining past, present and future tenses in one beautiful phrase. I am very grateful that I chose teaching as a career and this great District to teach and raise my family in. Linda Kennedy Elementary Special Education Teacher, 32 years Growing up, I had attended a very rural school district with a total population of about 600. Clinton seemed large. Since the population of classified students in the Elementary building was fairly minimal during my first years as a teacher, I was asked to teach a few senior boys in the high school for one period each day.

thinking seriously about retirement. I would especially like to thank my family for helping to make this career a success. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate their love, support, and understanding. There were many times when their needs were sacrificed because of this job. They helped me become the teacher I wanted to be. Debby Hepburn High School English Teacher, 27 years 40 years ago, I became an English teacher in Stoughton, Mass. I hoped to honor my past great teachers who inspired my love of reading and writing and who set a standard of academic and personal excellence. I hoped that I could attempt to pay back how much they had meant to me by helping my students to improve their reading and writing, and if I dare to admit it, I hoped to encourage them to become better human beings by first realizing how wonderful they already were and how much better they could become, an admittedly audacious and grandiose aspiration on my 22-year-old part. My famous line that I utter repeatedly is so beautifully true: “I know the very best people—and the vast majority of them are 16, 17, and 18-years-old.” I had to revise that statement this year to include my fabulous ninth graders and my superb sophomores from my lovely creative writing classes, which I happily have done. With the pennants (and the stuffed animals!) so colorfully celebrating student success, I have felt the living presence of all who spent a year or two in room 202. The seniors have moved RETIREMENT, page 8

THE CLINTON COURIER 8

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

RETIREMENT (continued from page 7) on to college or Rotary or work or the next grade at CCS, as I am heading home to create a new future for the next 27 or 40 years! They live within my heart and my memory, inspiring me to learn more, to be better, and to do good acts in their honor. Doug Scoones Physical Education Teacher, 33 years I am very proud of the fact that my father Carlton, ‘41, my brother Warren, ‘68, my sister Beth, ‘75, and myself, ‘72, all attended CCS. My children, Tim, ‘16, Ben, ‘18, and Katie, ‘20; my nephews Brian, ‘99, and Mike, ‘15; along with Aunts, Uncles, and cousins (too many to mention),

Obituary: Mary Elizabeth Simmons, 90 Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Coleman) Simmons died June 19, 2014, at Poet’s Seat Health Care Center, Greenfield, Mass, following a period of declining health. She was born May 28,1924, in Cooperstown, the daughter of T. William Coleman and Sarah V. Meeneghan. She attended Cooperstown schools and graduated in 1942 in the first class in town to have had a kindergarten. Betty trained as a registered nurse at Ellis Hospital School of Nursing in Schenectady. She worked as a surgical nurse at Albany Medical Center, where she met her husband of 49 years, pharmacy student Joseph Szymanowicz. They next lived in Seneca Falls, where she worked as a nurse at Sylvania, before settling into Clinton for nearly five decades. Prior to Joseph’s death, the couple were avid skiers and golfing members of the Skenandoa Club from its inception. They were staunch believers in our nation’s political process and unfailing in their support of the Oneida County Democratic Party. Betty's passions were working for social justice and travel. Her greatest

all attended Clinton Schools. I would venture a guess that for the past 75 to 100 years there has always been a Scoones in the Clinton School system. A person can search the country for their entire life looking for that certain perfect place where they can raise a family and work in a truly rewarding job. I consider myself extremely lucky to have found my place right here at home in Clinton. As a student then a teacher, this School has been my home for 46 incredible years and to say I will miss the staff and students would be an understatement. Linda Chesebro Library Media Specialist, 13 years I was ambivalent about retirement as secondary library media specialist for Clinton Schools. Here, I was able to institute a library media program that reflected ideas to strengthen

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

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Partly sunny and nice

RealFeel: 82°/58°

RealFeel: 77°/53°

facbook.com/couriercny

Editor’s Note: Michael Barnes, a science teacher in the High School, also retired this year. He has served the School for 18 years. Barnes chose not to offer a statement.

SATURDAY

Clouds and sun with a couple of thunderstorms; not as warm

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disappointment was that she was never arrested for a cause. She went to Nicaragua with Witness for Peace, and she walked on the Great Wall of China in the early 1980s. She was a Girl Scout as a girl and as an adult and fondly remembered her time at Girl Scout camp. Betty leaves daughters Sara Campbell of Erving, Mass. and Ellen Lamb of Keene, N.H.; her husband Rhett of Keene, N.H.; grandchildren Jamie and his wife Linda, Brian and Carolyn Campbell and William, Brendan, Colman and Owen Lamb; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her sister Margaret Schnorr in 1991. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Peace Church, 90 Seventh Street, Turners Falls, MA at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 28. Rev. Fr. Stanley J. Aksamit will be the celebrant. Rites of committal and inurnment, will take place on Tuesday, July 29, in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Index, NY at 11 a.m. Contributions may be made to Witness for Peace, 1616 P. Street, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20036 or Girl Scouts of Central and Western Mass, in c/o Girl Scout Service Center, Crossroads Business Park, 301 Kelly Way, Holyoke, MA 01040 in her name.

7-day Forecast THURSDAY

and support student learning and collaborate with classroom teachers. I want this to be my legacy. There is still so much more I’d like to do, but I feel it’s time for the changing of the guard. I was able to interact with students and staff and will sorely miss this. I am proud of all the student accomplishments and my small part in helping guide them. I am grateful for these things and the support of the community to help build an enviable learning environment for our students. I am excited by the prospect of fresh ideas and enthusiasm from the incoming administration and teachers.

Pleasant with plenty of sunshine

RealFeel: 78°/54°

Partly sunny and pleasant

RealFeel: 84°/58°

The patented AccuWeather.com RealFeel Temperature® is an exclusive index of the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body.

Monday: A thunderstorm around in the afternoon. High 83. Low Monday night 66. Tuesday: Mostly cloudy and humid with t-storms. High 82. Low Tuesday night 61. Wednesday: Thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 78. Low Wednesday night 60.

BROWSE

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 9

Interview With an American Hero

Photo courtesy of Laura Griffin GSCS (SW) Nathaniel Griffin in uniform, on duty at sea. By Staff In 2009, a merchant ship known as the Maersk Alabama was overtaken by Somali pirates in the waters of the Indian Ocean. The infamous hijacking and rescue was recreated in a memoir and by Hollywood in the 2013, Tom Hanks-starring, thriller “Captain Phillips.” At the core of the historic moment, were men and women in uniform, working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the crew and its captain. Nathaniel Griffin has been a member of the U.S. Navy for 17 years. A member of the Clinton Central School Class of 1997, he was recently promoted to the rank of senior chief. Along with a number of rescue missions, Griffin served on the USS Bainbridge during the Captain Phillips rescue. We contacted GSCS (SW) Nathaniel Griffin during a brief stop

at port to talk about the historic event, life at sea, family and what the Fourth means to him. Have you seen the “Captain Phillips” movie? It's actually pretty funny, because the answer is no, I have not. It premiered when I was in Florida in the middle of a shipwide inspection. My wife attended a pre-screening held by Maersk, but I was not able to attend. What were your responsibilities during that particular event? I am an engineer. My job is to keep the screw turning, and power to the ship. Without engineers Navy ships do not go anywhere. My specific job at the time was engineering officer of the watch (EOOW). Regardless of what is going on with the ship's

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(some exclusions may apply)

JULY & AUGUST Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & til 7 p.m. on Thursday We WILL be open Friday, July 4th 11 a.m.-3 p.m.-ish 11 W.Park Row, Clinton NY 853-5299 Like us on Facebook @ The Village Crossing

mission the engineer’s job is the same—performing preventative and corrective maintenance to allow the ship to complete the assigned mission at hand. What do you remember most about that event? It was all pretty wild. There were so many entities working together to get Captain Phillips back safely. All parties at hand acted as we are trained to and in the end we were victorious. When the level of danger rises during an event like that, where does your mind go? What keeps you focused? We train all of the time in the Navy. It is all for worst case scenarios. Over the years, different casualties have arisen. Before I know it, instinct takes over and I am taking corrective action to combat the casualty. Everyone has a specific job to do and when events arise, knowing your equipment and training take over to push you through. After 17 years of military service, is it still rewarding? It is. Every now and again something happens where we help people in need and it reminds me of why I am still here. As a supervisor, it is also rewarding trying to make it a little better for my guys than it was for me as I came up through the ranks. I imagine that you could have pursued other interests or career paths along the way... Why stay in the service? There were a few times where I was going to get out of the Navy. The main reason that I am still in, though, is to support my family. The money is good and the benefits are great. I am proud of what I do but when it comes down to it I am here for my family. Is there a particular moment that stands out as a highlight in your career with the Navy? I have lots of stories and have witnessed many things. My biggest accomplishment was being selected to

the rank of chief petty officer. It was always my goal and when it happened, I knew I had made it. This year, I was advanced again to senior chief petty officer. Only 2.5 percent make it to this rank. Actually, I am still in a state of disbelief with that advancement. How often do you come back to Clinton? Usually one or two times a year. What do you miss most about your hometown? I miss the knowing everyone factor. Growing up in Clinton, I knew everyone and everyone knew me. That was good and bad. (Laughs) I did not get away with much back then. My first 15 years in Hampton Roads, Virginia, was the complete opposite of Clinton. I did not know the names of the people three houses down. I really missed the atmosphere of Clinton. Having seen the world through your service, has your perspective on small American villages like Clinton changed over the years? If so, how? Absolutely not. My wife grew up in New Hartford and I grew up in Clinton. We found a small town in North Carolina. We are trying to give our kids the same values and lifestyle that we were brought up with. What is the hardest part about being on duty out at sea? Leaving my family behind. I have missed so many things. Countless birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, first teeth, first steps, etc. It takes its toll. My job is easy, the hardest thing ever is having to say goodbye. What does Independence Day mean to you? Independence Day is the day we legally separated from Great Britain and became our own. We have risen to become the world superpower since then. I am proud to work for the U.S. Navy as we protect our shores at home and enforce policies abroad.

Business

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Dog Days of Summer

Bob Meelan avoids shortcuts in his time-honored frankfurter recipe.

For the Fourth of July weekend, Bob Meelan will makes as many as 1,000 hot dogs. How many he sells, he says, is all weather dependant. Written and Photographed by John Howard The perfect hot dog starts long before you top that plump frankfurter with just the right amount of relish and mustard. Long before you light the coals on the barbecue. And certainly long before you pull into a parking space at the market. It actually begins at 5 a.m. in the back of a butcher shop in Clark Mills. Here, Bob Meelan is filling and tying sausage links with this special meat recipe. At this point, he’s already got an hour’s worth of work in. Meelan’s Market is known for its true, German-style frankfurters. On holiday weekends like this, they’re a prized possession.

The store has been around since 1946 when Meelan’s parents owned it. He took over the operations in 1982. The date coincides with the year Meelan figured out the recipe for his signature franks. “I felt that I conquered it,” he says. “That’s when I left my job and came here full-time.” In addition to helping the family part-time, Meelan had worked at three other meat companies. He started out as a truck driver and worked his way inside where he learned the butcher trade and how to make sausage. He had purchased an old emulsifier, a table, and some other equipment from Hofmann Sausage in Syracuse.

After spending a year just getting the machines in working condition, he got to work making and testing his product. When he finally landed on the perfect frank, he brought it to everyone, including the guy he bought the equipment from. While the exact proportions of meat are a family secret, there are only two ingredients in the filling: chuck steak and pork butt. Because he doesn’t do wholesale, the quality is unmatchable by what’s on supermarket shelves. “There’s no additives, there are no extenders, there are no flours, there are no trimmings,” says Meelan. With the price of meat on the rise,

THE CLINTON COURIER 10

some would argue about that business model. Cutting corners might help save a buck here and there, but Meelan prefers, as he puts it, to “tread water” in order to protect a 32-old tradition. “I’d rather make less money and keep the product the same,” he says. After the links are stuffed, they’re hung in a smokehouse where the natural coloring and flavors begin to develop. Several hours later, they’re removed and placed into a hot container of water—this plumps the dogs and cooks any areas the smoker may have left behind. Meelan takes the franks temperature along the way. By this point the scientific process has been perfected. The water isn’t boiling, it’s just right. During the whole process, he watches over the product. His eyes show a mixture of pride and concern as he looks for any imperfections in the batch. Every once in a while he pulls off a link and takes a bite. “Breakfast of champions,” he says. The links are removed and given a cold shower. Then, they are hung in the cooler, where they’ll wait to make it to the stands that same week. The process makes 200 pounds of franks, which he calls “a small batch.” On a more demanding week, he’ll double that per day output. Leading up to the Fourth of July, his busiest week of the year, he’ll easily make 1,000 pounds of franks by himself. “I could make 1,000 pounds a day if I wasn’t doing anything else,” he says, checking the clock. “But I have to stop so I can open the doors.” Meelan’s Market has maintained the same old fashioned grocery store charm it has had since the '40s, with a few minor adjusts. About the time Meelan was finding his hot dog recipe, a back room was being added on to increase workspace. He has since expanded to other specialities. Today, people come far and wide for his kielbasa, his low salt, low fat smoked ham, and fresh cut meats. At 60, he says he has, “no intentions of retiring.” He loves the work too much. Like any business, Meelan’s Market has had its ups and downs, but it’s nothing compared to the rewards DOGS, page 11

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 11

DOGS (continued from page 10)

Meelan carries a finished rack of franks to a cooling rack where they’ll be given a shower. of being able to switch his sign to “Open” every morning. “I’ve had some great years and I’ve have some lean years,” says Meelan.

Farmers’ Market Vendor Spotlight: Pleasant Valley Farm & Bakery

“The bottom line is that I’m an independent and I’m still here. I’m kind of proud of that.”

SUNYIT Announces New Business Training Programs By Staff

Photo by Caroline Henderson By Caroline Henderson, Clinton Chamber of Commerce

he Pleasant Valley Farm & Bakery booth features rustic shelves lined with glass cookie jars showcasing plenty of flavors of homemade butter cookies. The Cassulis Family's most popular flavor is their coconut lime, so make sure to pick a few of those up when filling a box of your favorites. Pleasant Valley prepares a variety of other baked goods for each market and will have homegrown strawberries available for the next few weeks. This is the third year Pleasant Valley has been a part of the Clinton Market. "The setting is very beautiful and all the other vendors are of high quality," said co-owner Eileen Cassulis. For a delicious treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, visit Eileen, Dave or Melissa Cassulis at the Pleasant Valley Farm & Bakery booth. The Clinton Farmers’ Market is open every Thursday through October 9, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., on the Village Green.

The Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center has announced a new training program for already established small businesses. Workshops will be held from 9–10:30 a.m. at SUNY Institute of Technology in Marcy. The Professional Series promises to offer “higher level of training for firms already in business.” July 10 “Emergency Preparedness for Businesses”: The course will outline benchmarks and standards to help prepare businesses for natural, technological, and human-caused disasters. Information, references and resources will be provided. Guest speaker Timothy Riecker, a partner in Emergency Preparedness Solutions (EPS), has over seventeen years of experience in Emergency Management and is a nationally recognized specialist in the field. July 17 - “Cyber-Security”: The course will discuss protecting computers from hackers and hijackers and training employees to protect the firm from unwanted access. Guest speaker James Carroll of Security Management Partners (SMP) will talk about recent threats and vulnerabilities small businesses could face and how to remediate risk. Classes will be held at Kunsela Hall, room A219, on the SUNYIT campus. For directions, visit http://sunyit.edu/ directions/ Admission cost is $15.00 per person and refreshments will be provided. The deadline for registration is July 7. For more information and to register call 792-7547 or email palazzp@sunyit. edu.

41College Street ZOOM in for Pizza Subs and more!

We cater all events ~ big or small!

THE CLINTON COURIER 12

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

American Doll Craft Camp July 7 – 11 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

NORTH STAR ORCHARDS FARM MARKET & BAKERY

Come travel back to the past with us as we craft like it’s 1812 and 1910. Make an apron, a bonnet and more!

Iced Blueberry Cookies Are Back! Maryland Sweet Corn

$5 / .00

Super

Jumbo

Cherries

dozen

Homegrown peas

Bring your own American Girl or other doll.

Watermelon .99

Ages 7-12 KAC Member: $80 Non Members: $90

AND SQUASH

Rt. 233, Westmoreland ~Open Daily 8-7 ~ 853-1024 • NorthStarOrchards.com

Directory Automotive

Automotive

PCI PANELLA’S COLLISION, INCORPORATED and AUTO SERVICE CENTER 58 HENDERSON ST. NEW YORK MILLS, NY 13417

The Clinton Courier

Complete Automotive, Boat and Recreational Vehicle Repairs

Proof 4.25.14

Automotive

LindfieLd Auto Service Electrical Repairs, Check Engine Lights, Update & Reprogram Vehicle Computers

• Mechanical Dept. • 24-Hour Towing

Contractor

Clinton Coiffures

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Education

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Flooring

General Construction

Snow Plowing Snow Removal

KOGUT Excavating

3619 South St. Clinton, NY 13323

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Decks • Masonry • Stamped Concrete Pole Barns • Additions • Painting • Power-Washing • Trash Clean-outs

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841-8004 37 College St., Clinton • 790-0531 2708A Rt. 315, Deansboro Contracting & Excavating Construction & Landscaping

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RICHARD N. PANELLA

PH: 315.853.3991

Graphic Design

Area Rugs • Ceramic Tile • Vinyl, Wood, Laminate, Marble, & Natural Stone Floors 5126 Commercial Drive East, Opposite Joe Tahan’s

www.meelanfloors.com • 315-736-7723

Home Care A variety of elder care services provided in the comfort Home Care+ of your home.

Bonnie Bechy, CNA, PCA, CHHA (315) 368-3463

Services include: •Transportation for medical related appointments, errands, etc. • Personal hygiene and assistance with showers. • Wake-up and bed time related services. • Light housecleaning.

Debra Savage, PCA, CHHA (315) 601-4618 P.O. Box 75 • Waterville, NY 13480 Fax (315) 272-4084 • Email: info@johnsavage.com

Health Care

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 13

Ask about our Senior Citizen (62 and older)

& Military Discounts! (ID required)

Lindfield Auto Service

Paul Baker Honored by Kirkland Democrats By Staff

he Kirkland Democratic Committee proudly presented its second Democracy in Action Award to Paul Baker of Clinton during an event on June 27. Amongst a long résumé of achievements, Bakers served in the Marine Corps during World War II, has been a welder and assembler in a Ford Motor plant, organized for the United Auto Workers, and taught at the elementary level. He has always been an advocate, activist, and a great friend of the civil rights and labor movements.

June 23 - June 29, 2014

Looking for Vendors For our

Annual Indoor Flea Market Saturday, August 23, 2014 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. At The Clinton Arena Items to be sold will be garage sale, crafts, or flea market items. Concession will be open! Any questions please contact Jeaneen @ 853-5617 Or e-mail clintonarena@townofkirkland.org

Date 6/23/2014 6/24/2014 6/25/2014 6/25/2014 6/25/2014 6/25/2014 6/26/2014 6/26/2014 6/26/2014 6/26/2014 6/26/2014 6/26/2014 6/27/2014 6/27/2014 6/27/2014 6/27/2014 6/27/2014 6/28/2014 6/28/2014 6/28/2014 6/29/2014 6/29/2014 6/29/2014 6/29/2014 6/29/2014

Time Location Complaint Type 2:00 a.m. College Street Area Check Request 3:40 p.m. Brookside Drive Medical Assist 12:00 p.m. Kellogg Street Alarm (residence/business) 3:45 p.m. Bristol Road Fire Assist 8:35 p.m. Lumbard Road Animal 6:40 a.m. Fountain Street Animal 9:00 p.m. Bleeker Road Police Assists (outsides agencies) 8:30 a.m. 12B-State Route Burglary 8:55 a.m. College Street Assist Citizen 1:25 p.m. Hamilton College Property (found/recovered) 4:30 p.m. Roberts Road Alarm (residence/business) 5:20 p.m. Old Kirkland Avenue Alarm (residence/business) 12:33 a.m. Arrowhead Way Suspicious Vehicle 1:10 p.m. Clinton Street Harassment 6:25 p.m. Cambridge Manor MVA-Property Damage 7:18 p.m. Brookside Drive Medical Assist 9:35 p.m. Kellogg Street MVA-Property Damage 1:45 a.m. Pratt Avenue Noise/Music complaints 6:10 p.m. South Street-Clinton Property (found/recovered) 11:05 p.m. Railroad Street Check the Welfare 12:18 a.m. McBride Avenue Alarm (residence/business) 9:50 a.m. Kellogg Street Medical Assist 2:15 p.m. Stewarts Property (lost/stolen/seized) 3:00 p.m. KPD Property (lost/stolen/seized) 7:25 p.m. 12B-State Route Domestic/Custody Dispute

Landscaping

Jury Lawn and Yard •L (315) 853-6468 •L C

Gurdo’s Grass and Snow

andscaping awn are Delivery of Mulch, Topsoil & Stone Garage, Basement & Attic Clean Outs

• • • Tree Removal

www.burnsagency.com

Landscaping & Excavating

"The Kirkland Democratic Committee values Paul as a friend and Democrat and for the inspiration he continues to give us all,” the award reads. “We recognize Paul for his lifelong role in education development, union activism, and leadership in the quest for social and economic equality and justice.”

Kirkland Police Blotter

841-8004 2708A Rt. 315, Deansboro

Insurance

Photo courtesy of Mona Perrotti Paul Baker at Kirkland Democrats event.

189 Utica Street, Clinton Todd Jury

Monuments

Over a century of creating MEMORIES TO MONUMENTS Burdick-Enea Memorials

Lawn Maintenance, Snow Plowing

9 Furnace Street Clinton, NY 13323

Anthony Gurdo

315-368-8757

Major Credit Cards Accepted

Anthony@gurdosgrassandsnow.com

Gurdosgrassandsnow.com

Paving

Celebrating 69 Years

56 Utica St. P.O. Box 383 Clinton, NY 13323 • 853-5444

DeRegis-Walser Monuments

1152 Grant Blvd. Syracuse, NY 13203 • 479-6111

Cemetery Lettering Complete Monument Service

Pets

Plumbing

Heating

WILLIAM OWENS & SONS, INC.

QUALITY BLACKTOP & CONCRETE QUALITY BLACKTOP, CONCRETE & BRICK PAVERS www.valerianopaving.com info@valerianopaving.com www.valerianopaving.com MATT VALERIANO, PRES. (315) 724-7870

Roofing Mosher Rooﬁng Inc. Owners: Ken and Gail Mosher

Plumbing and Heating

97 College Street, Clinton, New York 13323 Plumbing - Water Systems - Pumps - Heaters - Softeners Heating - Hot Water - Warm Air - Steam

Bill Jr. 853-2085 Brian 853-2995 Billy 853-2070

Stone Countertops Nature’s beauty in the heart of your home.

Granite and Quartz Stone Countertops

Tree Care L.D. Terry Hawkridge Rustic Pines A Tree Care Company

ISA Certified Arborist

Specializing in: • Emerald Ash Borers Treatment • Arborjet Technology • Insect and disease treatment • Tree planting • Landscaping consulting • Lecturing 2795 Ford Road Clinton, New York 13323 315-525-2097 Ld.terryhawkridge@gmail.com • www.rusticpinestrees.com

P.O. BOX 4370 UTICA, NY 13504

315.853.5565

Over 100 years experience in Clinton and surrounding areas Quality workmanship guaranteed • Shingle Roofing • Modified Roofing • Metal Roofing • EPA Certified

Yarn

Free estimates, fully insured for rooﬁng Ask us about the Energy Star Program Workers covered by Workmen’s Compensation

Fiber

Open: Wed.,Thurs. & Sat. 10-4 Clinton Courier Newspaper : Ad Proof Run date: Fri. Noon-9 Date: Approved by: Sun. Noon-4

4 College St.

Yarn & Fiber

(315).381.3024 Formerly Pleasantries Yarn

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Legal Notice

TRNCHIK BROTHERS LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 5/8/14. Office location: Oneida County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 4713 Sheehan Rd., Taberg, NY 13471. General Purpose. CC: 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Legal Notice

NOVAL WILLIAMS FILMS LLC notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”) Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on: September 12, 2013. Office location: County of Oneida, New York. SSNY designated as Agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and post office address SSNY shall mail copy of process to: NOVAL WILLIAMS FILMS LLC, 11523 North Lake Road, Forestport, NY 13338. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC Law.

Legal Notice

Notice of formation of Bammer JHO, LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/19/14. Office location: Oneida County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: c/o The LLC, 7 Sunnyside Drive, Utica, NY 13501. Purpose: Any legal purpose.

Legal Notice

D & GK Enterprises LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 5/6/14. Office location: Oneida County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Gary J. Kimball, 45 Walnut Dr., Whitesboro, NY 13492. General Purpose. CC:6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Legal Notice

Blackriver Real Estate Group LLC Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”) Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on: May 1, 2014 . Office location: County of Oneida, New York. SSNY designated as Agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and post office address SSNY shall mail copy of process to: the LLC, Blackriver Real Estate Group LLC, 9336 Cosmo Court, Sauquoit, NY 13456. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC Law.

Legal Notice

FISH CREEK FARMS LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 5/8/14. Office location: Oneida County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 4713 Sheehan Rd., Taberg, NY 13471. General Purpose. CC: 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY CO. (LLC) Name of LLC: JLD Management Services, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State on May 30, 2014. Office and address in Oneida Co. 9786 Campbell Road, Sauquoit, New York 13456; Sec. of State designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served, and address Sec. of State shall mail copy of process is: 9786 Campbell Road, Sauquoit, New York 13456; Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLCL. CC: 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Legal Notice

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC) Name: Sensible Property Management, LLC Articles of Organization filed by the Department of State of New York on: 05/16/2014 Office location: County of Oneida Purpose: any and all lawful activities. Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: PO Box 503 Washington Mills, NY 13479 CC: 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9

Public Notices Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Notice is hereby given that SHADY ACRE BARNS LLC, a limited liability company, filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York on June 5, 2014. The principal office is in the County of Oneida, State of New York and the Secretary of State was designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of process is: 5645 Marble Road, Vernon Center, New York 13477. The purpose of the company is to engage in any lawful activity for which a company may be organized under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Act. CC: 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16

Legal Notice

Genesee Global Asset Management, LLC Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”) Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on: May 20, 2014. Office location: County of Oneida, New York. SSNY designated as Agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and post office address SSNY shall mail copy of process to: the LLC, 2108 Genesee Street Utica, NY 13502. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC Law. CC:6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16

Legal Notice

DESIGN-ALL, LLC notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”) Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on: May 13, 2014. Office location: County of Oneida, New York. SSNY designated as Agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and post office address SSNY shall mail copy of process to: DESIGN-ALL, LLC, 6835 Crooked Brook Rd, Barneveld, NY 13304. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC Law. CC:6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF ACCELERATE SPORTS, LLC Articles of Organization of Accelerate Sports, LLC (LLC) filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/12/14. Office location: Oneida County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 437 Oriskany Blvd, Whitesboro, NY 13492. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF SUBSTANCE OF ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF 4ST LLC NAME OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (the "Company"): 4ST LLC DATE OF FILING OF ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION: June 4, 2014 COUNTY OF COMPANY'S OFFICE: Oneida County AGENT: The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served and P.O. Box 393, Washington Mills, New York 13479 is the address to which the Secretary of State of the State of New York shall mail a copy of any process against it served upon him or her. Symeon Tsoupelis and Shelly Tsoupelis are the members of the LLC. The inclusion of the name of a person in this notice does not necessarily indicate that such person is personally liable of the debts, obligations or liabilities of the limited liability company, and such person’s liability, if any, under applicable law is neither increased nor decreased by reason of this notice. PURPOSE: The Company is formed for any lawful business purpose. CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY CO. (LLC) Name of LLC: Rose Development WFC, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State on June 5, 2014. Office and address in Oneida Co. 41 Notre Dame Lane, Utica, New York 13502; Sec. of State designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served, and address Sec. of State shall mail copy of process is: 41 Notre Dame Lane, Utica, New York 13502; Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLCL. CC:6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY CO. (LLC) Name of LLC: Collins Farm, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State on June 10, 2014. Office and address in Oneida Co. at 8744 Thomas Road, Rome, New York 13440; Sec. of State designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served, and address Sec. of State shall mail copy of process is: 8744 Thomas Road, Rome, New York 13440; Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLCL.

CC:6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16

Legal Notice

Notice of formation of a domestic limited liability company: The name of the LLC is "Town Tavern DDM LLC". The LLC was formed and filed its Articles of Organization on June 6, 2014. The office of Town Tavern DDM LLC is located in Oneida County. The Secretary of State is the designated agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served and a copy of any process shall be mailed to Town Tavern DDM LLC, P.O. Box 206, New York Mills, New York 13417.

CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

THE CLINTON COURIER 14

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY CO. (LLC) Name of LLC: PLAIDGUY.COM, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State on June 11, 2014. Office and address in Oneida Co. at 3310 Fountain Street, Clinton, New York 13323; Sec. of State designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served, and address Sec. of State shall mail copy of process is: 3310 Fountain Street, Clinton, New York 13323; Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLCL. CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Notice

LLOYD RENTAL PROPERTY & MAINTENANCE LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 5/28/2014. Office in Oneida Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 8045 Shore Dr., Alder Creek, NY 13301, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Noticies

NOTICE OF SUBSTANCE OF ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF 1673 GRANDVIEW LLC NAME OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (the “Company”): 1673 GRANDVIEW LLC DATE OF FILING OF ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION: June 12, 2014 COUNTY OF COMPANY’S OFFICE: Oneida County AGENT: The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served and 114 Pebble Creek Lane, New Hartford, New York 13413 is the address to which the Secretary of State of the State of New York shall mail a copy of any process against it served upon him or her. Louis R. Tehan is the sole member of the LLC. The inclusion of the name of a person in this notice does not necessarily indicate that such person is personally liable of the debts, obligations or liabilities of the limited liability company, and such person’s liability, if any, under applicable law is neither increased nor decreased by reason of this notice. PURPOSE: The Company is formed for any lawful business purpose. CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Noticies

PACC ENTERPRISES, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 6/13/2014. Office in Oneida Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 917 Arthur St., Utica, NY 13501, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Legal Notice

TOWN OF KIRKLAND NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 103 of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York that separate sealed bids will be received by the Town of Kirkland, at the Office of the Clerk, Lumbard Hall, 100 North Park Row, Clinton, New York to construct an addition to the Kirkland Police Department, in accordance with the Architect's plans and specifications. The Police Department is located at 2 New Street, Clark Mills, New York. Questions regarding the bid may be directed to James Clarke, Project Architect, Town of Kirkland, (315) 272-6842. Specifications and bid forms can be obtained at the Town Clerk's Office. The bid form contains a waiver of immunity pursuant to Sections 103-a and 103-b of General Municipal Law. No other Bid Form will be accepted. All bids must be signed by an authorized representative and submitted in a sealed envelope, with the bidder's name and address inscribed upon the envelope. Sealed Bids for the aforementioned shall be received no later than 4:00 PM, July 16, 2014, at the Town Clerk's office, and shall be publicly opened at 7:15 PM at the Town Board meeting on July 16, 2014. Bid security, in the form of an acceptable bid bond, certified check, or bank draft, in an amount equal to 5% of the total bid cost is required to be submitted with the bid. Upon acceptance of the bid, the successful bidder shall enter into a contract for the sale of the bid item immediately upon notification of the acceptance of the bid. All deposits, except that of the successful bidder, will be returned. The deposit of the successful bidder shall be returned within thirty (30) days of the execution of the contract. Upon acceptance of his bid, if the successful bidder fails to enter into a contract pursuant to the requirements of the Board, then the check or bond deposited as aforesaid and the moneys standing to the credit of the same shall be forfeited to the Town as liquidated damages or the payments of the bond enforced for the benefit of the Town. The Town Board reserves the right to waive any formalities and to reject any and all bids and may re-advertise for new bids in its discretion. By order of the Kirkland Town Board Dated: June 25, 2014

CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

Legal Notice

Notice of Formation of QUAD C PHASE I LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State on 6/4/14. Office location: Oneida County. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502, principal business address. Purpose: all lawful purposes. CC: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23

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GRADUATION (continued from page 1)

Class speaker Mary Warfel delivered the simile “life is like a swing,” and encouraged her class to “soar” as the the step foot into future challenges. Class President Haley Allen and Vice President Chandler MISC. Wightman presented the class SAWMILLS from only $4897.00gift: a set of benches for the MAKE & SAVE MONEY with senior cove and donations to your own bandmill- Cut lumber the Mike Burns and Helen any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info / DVD: www. Sperling scholarship funds. NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578In her address, Allen made 1363 Ext.300N a special note to thank the community for its ongoing MORTGAGES support of the student body in the High School. Ready to buy a home? We While the High School are ready to help. The State of NY Mortgage agency offers symphonic band led by Norin up to $15,000 down payment Lavender provided big sounds assistance. www.sonyma.org. throughout, the ceremony

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concluded with a more subdued, acoustic touch. After singing the School’s alma mater, singers draped in their caps and gowns bellowed Stevie Nicks’ “Landslide,” with the sole accompaniment of Jake Ford’s guitar. Following the ceremony, graduates found their family members and friends in the hot sun of the grounds. Photos were snapped, messages were tweeted and hugs were shared in the moments before the Class of 2014 and the congregation made their way off the campus to continue the celebration elsewhere. A full list of the graduating class is available on page 17. All four speeches are printed in full on page 16-17.

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THE CLINTON COURIER 15

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THE CLINTON COURIER 16

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Curated by Staff

Class of 2014 Student Speeches

Olivia Evans Valedictorian Address By Olivia Evans

go. The weeks passed slowly at times, sleep was scarce with so much studying and homework, and stress levels were at all-time highs as many of us began applying to colleges and other programs with big dreams ahead of us. There were times where I wondered how I’d ever make it through the rest of the year... yet, here we all are. We did it. Congratulations, everyone. Words cannot explain how honored I am to be standing up here presenting this speech as the Class of 2014 Salutatorian. Our class is absolutely amazing; I really cannot stress that enough. In all my classes throughout high school be it history, English, P.E, or art, I’ve been surrounded by students whose excellence has constantly pushed me to improve myself. Everyone contributed to class in his or her own way, and when we were asked to complete big projects, the results were just incredible. In English class, Ms. Hepburn had every student work on a creative

ood morning, and thank you all for being a part of this ceremony. I have the privilege of speaking to you all this morning because I am the valedictorian of the Class of 2014. I am truly honored, and grateful, to be in this position. I’d like all of you to just keep that in mind during the rest of this speech. The idea of the valedictorian is simple, yet I find its significance hard to grasp. The title is based on just one thing: a number, my GPA. Honestly, I don’t think my GPA—or anyone's— really has much meaning on its own. I mean, what does getting a 95 on a test really tell you? It doesn’t always reflect how much you know or how hard you studied. A 95 for one student could mean she spent a couple hours memorizing a few arbitrary facts, while for another student, it could be the result of an entire semester paying attention in class, letting the class change her perspective, actually learning something. The GPA is the most common measure of intelligence in high school, but its meaning is entirely subjective. I'm the valedictorian of the class of 2014, but I know that this doesn't mean I’m the smartest in my class. I haven’t worked the hardest. My life experiences aren't greater than anyone else’s. I haven’t broken school records on the athletic field. I haven’t dedicated my time to dance, or guitar, or a job. I didn't earn an internship to work in Washington D.C. for the past two weeks. Those are all things that seem pretty speech-worthy to me. What I really want to say is that it's important to look beyond what others designate us to be, and to think about why the present moment in our lives is meaningful… or not meaningful. We should never use labels to isolate ourselves, to make ourselves falsely superior or inferior. We gain meaning through choosing and understanding our personal successes and passions, not by thoughtlessly accepting the classifications of others. We’re all worthy of meaningful lives. We're all worthy of finding ways to succeed that matter to us. So many of my classmates have already begun to meaningfully shape their lives, and this is an achievement in itself. We build our lives - our careers, our hobbies, our circles of friends - on the things that mean something to us, the things that matter. Meaning is not external, and we should not depend on others to justify our own definition of it. What my GPA can't tell you, is that I'm one unique member of our class, with my own individual idea of meaning. It’s simply as a member of the Class of 2014 that I would like to say congratulations to all my peers.

Rachel DiCioccio Salutatorian Address By Rachel DiCioccio

ood morning everyone and welcome to the commencement of the class of 2014. Family, friends, administration, and teachers—thank you so much for being here; it would not be the same without your support today and we really wouldn’t be here, sitting on this stage, without all the time and energy you’ve invested in us throughout our high school journeys. I cannot believe June 28 has finally arrived. I remember before senior year began I looked at the district calendar and highlighted the day of graduation in excitement. On the first day of school, I realized, although we’d be graduating, we had a long way to

assignment in response to "Night," by Elie Wiesel, and we could respond in any way we so chose, whether it was art, music, poetry, or prose. She gave a rolling deadline of about a week for the project, so I saw projects coming in before I’d finished mine and was amazed at their caliber. I remember thinking how high the bar had been set, and that I’d have to work really hard on my project to live up to the work of my classmates. Ms. Hepburn had students from her third period class present in my seventh period class, and vice versa, and some students presented their projects to all four of her senior English classes. Profound songs were

performed, one classmate played a violin piece, and others did artwork that astoundingly captured the essence of the book. That’s when I really saw how passionate and dedicated the Class of 2014 is. Even in a social setting, all academics aside, I can list a plethora of classmates with shining personalities that we all should aspire to. I can only hope that my classmates in college are as inspirational as this group of special graduates we have up here on the stage before you. Although the class of 2014 is amazing, we must remember, there are people in the world who are equally amazing and some who are even more amazing than we are. If there’s one thing we all learned in economics with Mr. Deep, it is that we’re living in a global economy and are competing against people from across the world when we have to find jobs. For this reason, in order to succeed post-graduation, we really have to push ourselves and we cannot settle. I’ve witnessed the hard work of all my classmates, some balancing sports, arts and academics, some taking six AP courses at a time, and some trying to balance a job every night of the school week with their homework. I know we’re all capable of going far in life! Refuse to settle for mediocrity. Refuse to let your dreams slip away from you. Refuse to be anything less than extraordinary; everyone here is extraordinary—never let anyone tell you otherwise. In order to remain the extraordinary people we are, we must bring the happiness we feel today on graduation day with us throughout the rest of our lives. Success does not lead to happiness; happiness leads to success. Do what you want. Follow your own dreams, and if you don’t have any dreams, please take time to give them some thought. Don’t follow your parents’ dreams or your friends’ dreams—go down a path in life that is uniquely yours. Just because your parents want you to be a doctor doesn’t mean you should study on a pre-med track in college. Just because your family owns a small business doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your plans for your future to work there. As Steve Jobs once said, “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.” Don’t let yourself get tied down somewhere you don’t want to be doing something you don’t want to do; if we were meant to stay put for our entire lives we’d have roots, not feet. After we graduate today, don’t let anything hold you back. Sure, there are imaginary brick walls in our lives that we think we cannot break through, but guess what? We can. And we will. The Class of 2014.

Congratulations Class of 2014 Stop In For All Your July 4th Barbecue Needs! Open on the 5th!

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 17

Clinton Central School Class of 2014 Ross A. Adler James Albertine Haley Ann Allen Ellen C. Arnison Sophia G Atik* Dylan James Austin Daniel B. Bankert Daniel Christopher Barrett Emily M. Billiter Brandon Blair* John Niall Burdick Oneil Campbell Tyler Jason Champion Rachel Christie Clarey* John J. Clark Marissa Anne Cornelius Connor Patrick Crory Chelsy Christine Daz Lucy Pisiak Diamond* Rachel Aubrey DiCioccio* Mae Dinh Alexander Robert Dobrzenski Emily A. Dougherty Arianna Marie Drissi Igor Dunikov Benjamin Johnson Elgren* Katherine Elise Elsenbeck Kayla Lou Emerson Olivia Shaina Evans* Rachel Conover Evans* Anna Virginia Femia Alec Sean Firsching* Caleb Matthew Fletcher Jake Ford Ian M. Foxton Sally Franz Alexandra Gale Carley Geruntino Firestar Gomez Kyle Richard Goodson Lucas Robert Hameline Eliza Rachel Hammes

Brittani Rose Hill Katlyn D. Hillage Andrew Hobika, Jr. Joshua Hotton Michael James Huggins Justin David Jandke William D. Jarrett Nicole Kathryn Kistner Heather Louise Knight Claire Elizabeth Lashinger* Alexis Marie Lusby Peter Kevin Mackie Kaitlyn E. Macri Alexander Marcel Major William Christopher Marson Coby Daniel Masner Serena Masner Esther Louise Mazor Thomas P. Monaghan Mackenzie Ryan Moquin Nicole Ellen Murdoch Currey Shae Nelson Samuel Duane Olsen Amanda L. O'Neil* Lenny James Ortiz Colby Stephen Owen Jordan N. Provost Alissa Kate Pryputniewicz Christopher Ryan Pula* Jordan S. Reese Corinne Helen Richer Carlo Thomas Rizzo Christina Marie Sarandrea* Timothy Erik Schlosser* Hannah Mary Shankman Richard John Siedsma Caroline Grace Smiegal Matthew J. Sroka Noah Daniel Stanco Andrew J. Taft Michael Francis Tedesco, II Owen David Tinkler*

Caitlin Elizabeth Topi Alexa E. Ventura* Mary Katherine Warfel Karl Thomas White Kramer Sherwood Whitney Chandler John Wightman * Steven Michael Williams, II Shaelyn Marie Winkler Natalee Marie Wrege* Ingrid Yi Xu* Jack Stephen Sloan Yaworsky Noah R. Zaffino Ling Yi Zhang Adelaide Rose Zoller* Highest Honors Olivia Evans Rachel DiCioccio Claire Lashinger Noah Stanco

Sophia Atik Ingrid Xu Jack Yaworsky Hannah Shankman Alexandra Gale Kayla Emerson Haley Allen High Honors Caitlin Topi Daniel Barrett Natalee Wrege Emily Billiter Christopher Pula Owen Tinkler Benjamin Elgren Colby Owen Caroline Smiegal Ling Yi Zhang Mae Dinh

Class Gift Address By Haley Allen, Class President

Mary Warfel Class Speaker Address By Mary Warfel

ife is like a swing; In order to keep going we simply must put forth the effort into pumping our legs. We need the highs of the swing to understand the lows that life often throws at us, which teaches us to appreciate the highs in our lives. When I was little I loved to swing on my swing set that my dad had built for my siblings and I. I especially loved it when you would get so high on the swing where your only option was to let it be, just swinging freely in the air, no pushes and not being able to pump your legs to get any higher. This is what I believe true success feels like, being able to be completely content and at ease, feeling truly happy. Now success does not happen overnight, it is something we put effort into and work on daily to accomplish our goals, or in a swing's case we must keep pumping our legs to get higher and higher, even if we need a push every now and then. Everyone needs some sort of push to complete her goals and everyone has their own goals, no two are the same, and that is completely fine. We first must put forth the effort and sit on the swing and try it out before we can say that swinging just isn’t for us. True happiness to me is similar

to that of a swing set, enjoying that freeing moment of being high in the sky, as close to the birds who fly in it as possible. That feeling is peaceful and enjoyable. When I was little I wanted to be a bird; to be able to fly wherever I wanted to go without being too far away from the nest or home. The birds always seemed at peace soaring across the sky. When I faced the hard reality that I could not grow up and become a bird I was puzzled. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life at age five and I still have no idea what the right thing for me to do is, even now at age 18. Then it hit me, it was simple, just like the birds do what they love, we must do what we love too. The birds, for instance, love to fly, so we need to find what we love and make a career out of it. There is no doubt in my mind that each and every member of the class of 2014 will succeed and discover what he or she loves to do, for as Turkish author, Harun Yahya’s said, “I always wonder why birds stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on earth. Then I ask myself the same question.” So, congrats to the class of 2014 and let’s prepare to soar through life.

he saying, "it takes a village" originated somewhere in Africa, but I think it applies beautifully to Clinton as well. Throughout our four years here in high school, we were raised up, by parents and teachers and coaches; there was always an assortment of adults putting in the time and effort to love us and to shape us, to give us opportunities, and to guide us down paths of success. As a class we excelled on fields, in classrooms, in clubs and in all kinds of competitions, and undoubtedly many of these accomplishments we owe to the people who were always there: to the people, the school, and the town that raised us. As class president, I am honored to stand here and express gratitude on behalf of all of the seniors, but I am also in the tricky position of choosing how exactly to do that. How can someone thank so many for so much? Together with the other officers, I decided to thank you verbally before offering our class gift, in hopes that I can begin to show you how grateful we really are, that we see all you’ve done for us, and that we appreciate it. I want all parents, teachers, coaches,

Honors Ellen Arnison Carley Geruntino Samuel Olsen Sally Franz Alec Firsching Steven Williams Rachel Clarey Katherine Elsenbeck Adelaide Zoller O’Neil Campbell Rachel Evans Ian Foxton Esther Mazor Lucy Diamond *Distinguished Community Service

Chandler Wightman and Haley Allen

and all others actively involved in our lives, to know that what you did for us did matter, that you made a difference, and that we promise to double your investment in us. I hope to encourage you to keep doing what you’re doing, to keep guiding students and helping them reach their potential. We also hope our class gift will help you do that. Our gift this year is comprised of two parts. The first, a set of benches to be placed in the alcove affectionately known as the “Senior Cove,” to be used by future seniors, so that they will never have to eat brown-paperbag sandwiches on the floor again, and also so that they will have a place to communicate with one another, to laugh and to joke, to strengthen friendships, and to grow as personally as they’ve grown academically. The second part of this gift will be donations to the Mike Burns and Helen Sperling funds to be used as scholarships for future Clinton seniors. We sincerely hope that all underclassmen will continue to have it as good as we’ve had it, and that they will in turn appreciate the Town that raised us as much as we do.

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Sports

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

Despite Rumors, Pfisterer is ‘Still the Coach’

THE CLINTON COURIER 18

5 Reflections From the World Cup By Gil Palladino, Head Coach, CCS Varsity Soccer Illustration by Tim Rand

Coach Tom Pfisterer huddles with his team during an early game in the 2013-14 season. By John Howard

linton varsity baseball still has its coaching staff in place leading into the summer off season, despite much concern from the community suggesting otherwise. Following a dynamic postseason finish, which saw the Warriors to their second consecutive state final four playoff appearance, rumors spun that head coach Tom Pfisterer would not be returning to his post next season. “I’ll decide in September what I’m going to do,” said Pfisterer, who called the decision to coach a “year-by-year thing.” “For all intents and purposes, I’m still the coach of Clinton and will continue to be,” he said. Hailing from New Hartford, Pfisterer has a son who plays varsity baseball for the Spartans. His son is 16 and will likely see more game time during his junior year next season. As a father, Pfisterer isn’t sure he wants a repeat of last season, which caused

him to miss a lot of the New Hartford games due to scheduling conflicts with his Clinton responsibilities. What is certain is a frustration level at what’s been coming back through the grapevine. “There’s rumors all over the place— that I’m coaching at New Hartford … I’ve heard some doozies,” he said. “None of those rumors are true.” Shaun Lusby, who volunteers as an assistant coach on the team, added that “nothing has been decided yet” on his end, either. Even though gameplay has concluded for the high school season, there is plenty of work to be done as coaches. This week, the team will work the concession stand during the Fourth of July fireworks as a fundraiser, and planning has already begun for next year’s team trip to Florida. Pfisterer, who played Division I baseball during his time at the University of Cincinnati, has served as head coach for the Warriors varsity team since the 2008-09 season.

Clinton Senior Brings Home Gold From left: Alice Kenly of Utica, Susan Simpler of Frankfort, Walter Foley of New Hartford and Ingolf Hack of Clinton on the podium of the Empire State Senior Games in Cortland, N.Y.

By Brian Oehlsen

ocal Clintonian and veteran, Ingolf Hack participated in the swimming portion of the Empire State Senior Games and came home with three gold, one silver and two bronze medals. At 73, Ingolf doesn’t let his age dictate whether or not he participates in an activity that he has loved since adolescence.

He began swimming for Utica Free Academy at the age of 17. “They needed a breast stroker, and that was one stroke that I knew how to do so I got on the Utica Free Academy swim team,” he stated proudly. Ingolf also participated in the Utica Summer League for a few years and then, while stationed in Germany, he continued to swim competitively. After his return to the States, Ingolf kept the momentum going at the Masters. “[It’s] fantastic overall exercise for anybody, really,” he said of the sport. “It takes the weight off of your bones and all that, so it’s great exercise.”

40 is the old-age of youth 50 is the youth of old-age Wish SCOTT HUGHES a HAPPY BIRTHDAY as he begins his

YOUTH...

1. What I will always remember about Brazil is the people. Whether it was at the airport in São Paulo, in our pousada, or on the beaches, Brazilians can’t do enough to try and please you. And it is not driven by money. If you need an option for dinner, they give you three, they arrange your ride and they pick you up. One shop owner did not have an item I was looking for, so he left his own store and brought me down the road to another shop where he knew they had it. They are the most genuine people I have ever met. I saw heartbreaking poverty, as well. We travelled on roads that had no right being called roads. I gave a U.S.A. shirt to a young Brazilian boy playing soccer on the beach and you would have thought I gave him a million dollars. I will forever remember the people of Brazil. 2. The most difficult adjustment we had to make was with the chaos of the country. In the absence of direction and leadership, people end up doing their own thing. They made up rules for the road; they made up costs; and lines formed for no purpose. We drove nearly 600 miles in Brazil and every trip was a pure adventure. Whenever we encountered a situation that, to us, made no sense, we phrased it: “Brazil just being Brazil.” We also decided it was best to stop asking questions that began with “Why?” The scary thing was that after a short while, we started understanding and even joining in with the chaos.

3. We may love our sports in America, but we really don’t know passion the same way that other cultures do with their soccer. Don’t get me wrong, I was proud to be supporting the U.S. with the largest contingent of travelling fans from any one country. Other fans from other countries remarked so favorably about the U.S. team's support. But when you see players from other countries screaming out their national anthem, sometimes coming to tears, when you see absolute, unbridled ecstasy or deflation during games, when you see kids playing soccer on bare, dirt fields we wouldn’t walk our dogs on in the dark, without a single adult present… Well, you can’t adequately describe it, you can only feel the love. 4. The American media reports prior to my trip made me way too cautious. Although I wasn’t in Rio de Janeiro, I did spend time in São Paulo, Recife and Olinda, and I never saw a single display of protest—not against the expense of the tournament, not criticizing the misguided priorities of the government, not against anything. I felt safe; I felt welcome. And with the exception of a country’s inability to manage their roads during a 12-hour torrential rainstorm, I observed infrastructure in place to host this worldwide event. 5. I always feel better when my feet are on U.S. soil. The Brazilian people, the chaos, the passion and the warnings all made it a trip of a lifetime. Still, one thing is always for certain, “There’s no place like home.”

Sports

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 19

Coach Jean Vicks Scoreboard Revealed

A crowd looks on at the varsity field hockey field as the Jean Vicks scoreboard is revealed for the first time. Written and Photographed by John Howard

veryone credited the mid-80degree temperatures and the abundant sunshine to Jean Vicks’ spirit. The 2nd Annual Coach Jean Vicks Field Hockey clinic saw its largest turnout yet and concluded with a special celebration to honor the late coach’s legacy. “It was a perfect turnout and a great day,” said coach Christina Buschmann, who organized the event. “It will get bigger and bigger each year.” Thirty-four kids signed up for last Friday’s one-day clinic, which began at 1 p.m. A series of drills designed to boost endurance and skills was followed by a round robin-style skimage tournament. All skill levels were welcomed to attend. By 4 p.m. families, alumni and community members had gathered around the newly-erected scoreboard on the varsity field hockey field adjacent to the Clinton Pool. A tarp concealed the board, keeping the surprise sealed. Finally, the tarp dropped unveiling

the new campus landmark. The board, a maroon and white statement to future generations yet to take the field, was greeted with applause from every direction. As latest statement to the School’s athletic facilities, it’s easily the most impressive scoreboard on the campus now. “In memory of coach Jean Vicks” it reads. Underneath the digital time, period and scoring boxes, a bottom panel adds “Section III winner ‘97, ‘98, '00, ‘01, ‘03,” and “state champions ‘98 and ‘00.” A long list of community members and local businesses contributed funds to cover the near-$5,000 cost of the project. A list of patrons was made available in a brochure during the dedication ceremony. The history behind the scoreboard was mirrored by the clinic’s volunteer coaching staff, made up of athletes who played under coach Vicks’ leadership. Jean’s husband, Dwight Vicks, who introduced the new scoreboard along with Buschmann, said that

Jean’s personality was alive and well throughout the event. “It’s extraordinary that so many of her former players came back to coach,” Dwight said. “These girls have children, they have jobs, they needed to take days off… It’s a real testiment to Jean.” Sarah Elleman, who coaches field hockey at Utica College, was the only non-CCS alum in this year’s coaching staff. She was impressed by the character of the event and the girls who came out to play. “I just hope that they learned one new thing today,” said Elleman. “All the coaches here, we all love, and are passionate about field hockey, and anytime we can create that feeling in younger players, we love to do that.” Jean Vicks died in April 2013 after a 14-year battle with a rare form of thyroid cancer. A New Jersey native, she defied the odds, earning a walk-on spot on the University of Virginia field hockey team during her college career. In addition to Clinton, where she led the team to multiple sectional tournament appearances, Vicks coached at Whitesboro and New Hartford High Schools. Coaching was Vicks' passion and it showed in all areas of her life. In his dedication speech, Dwight recalled a moment during her treatment when she told her surgeon to be careful of her vocal chords because “it was field hockey season.”

Coach Sarah Elleman instructs young players during last Friday’s clinic. Over 30 student athletes participated in the one-day event.

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Proceeds from the clinic are donated to the Jean Vicks Scholar Athlete Award, given to a scholar senior athlete. This year’s recipient, Mae Dinh, and Natalie Fiore, who received the honor in 2013, both attended the clinic. When they saw the new scoreboard, the girls were overwhelmed with pride. “It’s amazing. It really represents what Mrs. Vicks would have wanted,” said Fiore. “It glorifies her time here,” added Dinh. “It’s great for the program to finally get the recognition it deserves. Before we were using the junior baseball scoreboard.” An alumni game followed the dedication. Veteran Clinton athletes took the field as the new scoreboard lit up for the first time. Few tears were shed during the celebration, which proved to be a prideful tribute to the sport and to Vicks’ resilience. Surveying the crowd that had gathered in front of the scoreboard at the end of the day, Dwight was certain that the turnout and the mood was a direct result of his wife’s “incredibly giving and infectious personality.” “I had nothing to do with any of this,” he said. “It’s obvious that she has touched a lot of people.”

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2014

THE CLINTON COURIER 20

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