C-NS wins first sectional title in nine years
By Phil BlAcKwEll
As far as Kyle Kulikowski was concerned, Cicero-North Syracuse baseball winning a Section III championship was “just getting us back to the place that were supposed to be.”
If that’s the case, then it took nine long years for the Northstars to find that comfort zone again.
C-NS’s first sectional title since 2016 was secured June 1 at Onondaga Community College when the Northstars defeated Christian Brothers Academy 5-2 in eight innings, atonement for playoff exits at the expense of the Brothers the last two seasons including the 2024 sectional final on this same turf.
“We have a group of tough kids who know what it takes to get the job done, sticking together through good and bad,” said Northstars head coach Stephan Bailey.
the best of CBA with post-season stakes.
This resilience helped C-NS rise from a no. 4 seed to the sectional title, first knocking off top seed Baldwinsville 5-3 in last Friday’s semifinal at Auburn’s Falcon Park and then finally getting
Liverpool BOE gives update on superintendent search
In a recent press release the Liverpool Central School District Board of Education provided an update on the search for the district’s next superintendent. The board had initially anticipated announcing the selected candidate to the community by May 15.
“While that date has now passed, we want to be transparent in sharing that the process remains ongoing,” the press release stated.
“We understand the significance of this decision and the impact it will have on the future of our students, staff, and schools. That’s why we are committed to taking the time necessary to identify a leader who
not only brings the right experience and integrity, but who also reflects the values and vision of the Liverpool Central School District.”
The release stated the board felt making the right choice was far more important than making a quick one, and “remains actively engaged in this process … confident that we are on the path to identifying a leader who will serve our district with passion, purpose and excellence. We are hopeful that a final candidate will be identified and introduced to the community soon, and we will continue to keep you informed with any important updates along the way.”
It required talent and clutch performances, none bigger than that of relief pitcher Jeremy Palmer, who threw five scoreless innings after a bold decision made by Bailey and his coaching staff.
C-NS led 1-0 in the bottom of the second, but starting pitcher
Kaden Kalfass was struggling to find the strike zone against CBA’s potent lineup. In the middle of an at-bat with nobody out, Bailey removed Kalfass.
“It was just a feeling,” said Bailey, explaining the choice and adding that he had full faith in his bullpen. Landon Cook, who had
American High diesel generator upsets neighbors; mayor fed up
By Russ TARBy Contributing Writer
Noise and fumes emanating from American High’s operation of a diesel generator outside its facility at the old high-school building at 800 Fourth St. caused several neighbors to complain to village Codes Officer Bill Reagan last week.
As a result, Reagan is considering to fine the film company $1,000 per day if they continue to operate the generator. The production company began using it for lights, camera and other equipment last week.
Reagan said the building should have
enough electrical service to power lights and other equipment, but would require installing hookups.
“It shows he has no respect for the neighbors whatsoever,” Reagan said of American High CEO Jeremy Garelick.
For his part, Garelick said the studio made a mistake prioritizing other repairs, including plumbing, fire safety and the roof, before installing permanent electrical hookups. Garelick hopes to accomplish such installation within the next 60 days.
American High previously drew complaints from neighbors over the use of tractor-trailer trucks late at night in 2022,
Liverpool Library programs encourage summer reading and more
By KAThRynE RAKowsKi
There are lots of fun things to make time for over the summer, and the Liverpool Library wants to remind everyone it’s a great time to read.
The library’s Summer Reading Program kicks off on June 24 with the chance to set a reading goal and win prizes, get some free books, and attend fun events.
“We’re excited to celebrate our 20th anniversary of the Summer Reading Program for adults this year,” Communications Coordinator Nori Gartner-Baca said.
With a separate reading program for adults and children, everyone has an opportunity to join in on the fun, and hundreds of people participate in both programs each
year. This year’s program is focused on several exciting events.
“We are featuring some unique STEAM programming for both children and adults, outings for families and adults, an Onondaga Lake Appreciation event, some engaging new story times, and of course our very popular tie-dye event,” Gartner-Baca said.
New this year, the library is partnering with HumaneCNY and local businesses to help pets while encouraging reading.
“Local businesses have pledged to donate money to HumaneCNY as an incentive for reading,” Gartner-Baca said. “So while you’re discovering your next great read, our four-legged friends win.”
To participate, readers can set their first
reading goal on June 24 by picking up a goal sheet at the library, or by attending a kick-off event.
The children’s kick-off will be on June 24 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
There will be games, crafts, an animal hospital, and the chance to learn about all the summer activities planned. All children under 18 are welcome, no one is too young.
The adult’s kick-off will be on June 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Adults can spin the book challenge wheel, play animal-themed trivia, and will receive a welcome -to- summer- reading gift.
Beginning July 14 participants can turn in their completed first goal sheet and will
receive a paw print to hang on the lobby wall, and also set a second reading goal on a new goal sheet.
Beginning on Aug. 11 these second goal sheets can be returned to the library. At the end of the summer, participants will be able to see by all the paw prints how much money was raised for HumaneCNY. With the summer months often providing more free time for students and adults alike, Gartner-Baca says it’s a good time to pick up a book or two.
“Vacations are a great time to grab a beach read to dive into while relaxing poolside or while passing time traveling,” she said. “Even if you aren’t traveling, time off at home can be a chance to unwind with a
Phil blaCkWell
The Cicero-North Syracuse baseball team defeated Christian Brothers Academy 5-2 in eight innings on June 1 at Onondaga Community College to earn the Section III Class AAA championship, the Northstars’ first sectional title since 2016.
Community Bank opens Liverpool location
Community Bank recently cut the ribbon on its new branch in Liverpool, marking another significant milestone in its continued growth and commitment to serving the Central New York region. President and CEO Dimitar Karaivanov, local community leaders, bank officials and clients proudly gathered to celebrate the opening of the newly remodeled branch, located at 7379 Oswego Road in the Glen Crossing Plaza.
The Liverpool branch supports the bank’s strategy to expand its presence in key markets throughout 2025, enhancing client services and supporting local economic growth. It’s the second new location in the Greater Syracuse area to open under this strategy, following the grand opening of the Hanover Square branch last October. Alongside its existing branches in DeWitt, Cicero, Skaneateles and downtown Syracuse, Community Bank now boasts five locations within the market, with plans to develop another branch in the area by the end of the year.
“Community Bank has a longstanding history in this market, with Syracuse serving as the home to our corporate headquarters for many years,” Karaivanov said. “Now, with
the grand opening of our Liverpool branch, we’re not just expanding, but deepening our roots and relationships here. We invite our customers and the community to come and visit us at this new location. Our dedicated team is here, ready to provide personalized service and support your financial goals every step of the way.”
Designed with customers in mind, the 2,200-square-foot branch reflects the bank’s modernized approach to the in-branch experience. Features include a new teller pod design, a hospitality area with a selfserve coffee bar and an instant-issue printer for debit cards. Customers can access a suite of personal, business and municipal banking products and services at the Liverpool branch, including full ATM and drive-through teller services, noclosing-cost mortgage options, business loans and lines of credit, and the ability to get paid up to one day early.
Community Bank’s new partnership with Greenlight Financial Technology Inc , an award-winning family finance app and debit card, is also available at no cost to eligible customers at this location.
In celebration of the opening,
Community Bank emphasized its dedication to the communities it serves. The bank announced it will donate $25 for every new account or loan opened in the branch until July 14, with a minimum donation of $2,500 to the Women’s Opportunity Center, a local nonprofit dedicated to equipping women in the community with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed personally and professionally. A $5,000 sponsorship was also presented to the Greater Liverpool Chamber of Commerce in support of the chamber’s Liverpool
is the Place Summer Concert Series, starting this June.
From May 23 to June 13, the Liverpool branch will also host Food Truck Fridays, welcoming a new mobile eatery each week during the lunch hour. The bank will provide meal vouchers to customers and community members who stop into the branch to participate and support the local vendors.
Nathan Anderson is branch and community development manager of the Liverpool location, supported by branch supervisor Ryan Verzillo, and relationship banking representatives Seth Blair and
Dot Transportation introduces driver training program
Dot Transportation, Inc. (DTI), the affiliate trucking company of Dot Foods, North America’s largest food industry redistributor, has launched an in-house driver training school at the company’s New York distribution center in Liverpool.
“Our drivers keep this company running,” said Sean Walsh, director of transportation at DTI in Liverpool. “They’re out on the road making sure our customers get what they need. We’ve been fortunate to partner with great schools in all of our communities; a few years ago we opened our first in-house school at our Maryland facility to help us get qualified drivers into our training program sooner and set them on a clear path to a solid career with support from day one. It was a big success, and we’re excited to have that model in place here at our New York facility.”
DTI is looking to hire approximately 25 truck drivers in Liverpool in the coming months to meet growing customer demand and support continued business growth. The new driver training program gives individuals an opportunity to earn their commercial driver’s license while starting a long-term career with the company.
Through DTI’s in-house driver training school, student drivers can earn their Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) in 12
thrown 2 1/3 no-hit innings in relief of Lucas Aiello in the semifinal against B’ville, struggled at first as CBA scored twice in the second to go in front, but then worked a scoreless third inning.
Then Palmer entered. CBA had not faced him when these two sides met in the regular season in April, but Bailey said that watching the Brothers at work gave him a sound game plan if he took the mound.
“I needed to keep the ball low and know
weeks, compared to the 16 to 18 weeks typical of external programs. Participants are paid $800 per week during training, with no out-ofpocket tuition. DTI covers the cost through a $1,500 prorated loan, which is fully forgiven after two years of employment.
The training includes four weeks of classroom instruction and hands-on learning in DTI’s truck yards, where student drivers get familiar with company equipment and meet in-house support teams. That’s followed by eight weeks of over-the-road training alongside experienced DTI driver trainers. Graduates move directly into full-time driving roles with DTI.
“Our approach sets us apart from other driving training programs and companies,” said Adam Smith, general manager of Dot’s Liverpool distribution center. “We believe the best way to set someone up for success is by putting them behind the wheel with a trainer who’s truly invested in their growth.”
One of the biggest benefits of driving for DTI is flexibility. Drivers can choose from several schedule options. DTI offers traditional regional schedules that get drivers home two days a week, along with four days on and four days off, or six days on and three off options. This scheduling helps drivers balance work and life more easily, giving them
that I’ve got a great defense behind me,” said Palmer. Only allowing four hits, Palmer kept his team close and was rewarded in the top of the sixth when Jaden Zimmer led off with a single, just the second hit off CBA pitcher Tom Menar. Zimmer reached second on a wild pitch, moved to third on a flyout and scored the tying run on Shacory Williams’ grounder to short.
They were still 2-2 going to the top of the eighth, and Menar was still in to pitch.
Pinch-hitter Carter Petranchuk drew a
more consistent time at home. DTI also offers both delivery and no-touch freight positions, depending on the driver’s preference.
In addition to paid training, DTI offers one of the most competitive compensation packages in the industry. The average DTI New York driver salary is $100,000 with first year Liverpool drivers averaging $86,000.
Full-time drivers also receive comprehensive benefits, including pay for all job activities such as mileage, deliveries, pickups, layovers, and detention time. DTI offers quarterly and annual bonuses, paid time off, health, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company
walk and pinch-runner Lawson Weckesser flew to third when Brothers catcher Mike Giamartino made a throwing error on Zimmer’s bunt.
Up stepped Kulikowski. On the first pitch he saw Kulikowski bunted, a squeeze play which scored Weckesser, who was hurt tearing across the plate but then watched as Williams tacked on an RBI single and a third run scored on a Menar balk.
Zimmer got the last three outs and the Northstars celebrated a hard-earned championship not just earned here, but when it took out B’ville in the semifinals after those two sides split their regular-season meetings.
C-NS scored twice in the top of the first
match, short- and long-term disability, experience-based pay increases, and additional compensation for unloading freight. DTI stands out for its activity-based pay model, which compensates drivers for the full scope of their work, not just mileage.
Dot Foods was founded in 1960 by Robert and Dorothy Tracy in Mount Sterling, Illinois, and remains family-owned and operated. DTI employs over 2,000 drivers across 13 U.S. distribution centers and 44 terminal locations nationwide. For more on opportunities available with Dot Transportation, visit DriveForDTI.com
off Bees starter Ben Leaton. It stayed 2-0 until the bottom of the fourth when B’ville struck for three runs to go in front, chasing Aiello but bringing on Cook for his strong relief stint.
Quickly answering, in the top of the fifth the Northstars put together its own three-run rally. Palmer, Shacory Williams, Chris Williams and Kevin Gunnip each got credit for an RBI, while Palmer also got two outs of relief, saving his best work for CBA. On Saturday night at OCC the Northstars would face Section II champion Saratoga Springs in the Class AAA regional final, the winner advancing to the June 1314 state final four in the Binghamton area.
Submitted Photo
Dot Transportation has introduced a driver training program and is looking to hire drivers in the Liverpool area.
By ElEnA sElThun
Cayenne is a one-year-old cat with long, soft white and brown fur, as well as a cute reddish mustache the same color as her pepper namesake. But she actually got her name due to her somewhat spicy per
sonality! She’s still in her playful teenage kitten phase, and she can be overenthusiastic while playing with humans. Cayenne would do well with a person who has cat experience, patience, and can give her the training she needs to learn how to play more gently. She is friendly, smart, and food-motivat
ed (she loves Churu treats), so she would respond well to reward-based training. Cayenne has already learned to use her claws a lot less, compared to when she first arrived at the shelter, and she is sweet at heart. She enjoys being brushed and can be quite snuggly too. Cayenne would likely do best as the only animal in the home, because she likes to be the center of attention and deserves someone who can focus on helping her be the best cat she can be. If you’re interested in Cayenne, visit her at the shelter today! In order to adopt, you must fill out an application, pay an adoption fee, and have your pets up to date on their rabies vaccines. All adopted cats and dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on their vaccinations before they go home. The CNY SPCA is located at 5878 East Molloy Road, Syracuse. For more information about adoption, call 315454-4479, email frontoffice2@cnyspca.org, or visit cnyspca. org.
Lawrence Gray, 97
Former elbridge councilman, supervisor
Lawrence (Larry) Gray, 97, of Elbridge passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Upstate Medical Center. He was born in Mottville on March 6, 1928, and spilt his time between Elbridge and Estero, FL.
Larry spent his career as a general contractor and licensed plumber and electrician. He started L.E. Gray Inc. in the early 1960s. His son, Larry worked with him from 1972-1979. His son, Pat, joined the business in 1978 and worked with his dad for over 25 years. The business was sustained for over 50 years.
Larry had a political career for 28 years; 12 years as Elbridge Town Councilman and 16 years as Elbridge Town
Audrey J Freeman, 86 loved gardening, redecorating, home remodeling
Audrey J Freeman, 86, of Baldwinsville, passed away peacefully following a short illness on Feb. 4, 2025.
Born on Dec. 14, 1938, as the ninth child of 13 to Fay and Helen Lamb, she was raised on a farm in Brookfield, N.Y. and graduated in 1956 from Fulton High School where she participated in variety shows and was active in the Future Homemakers of America club, raising money from activities for hospitals, children and nursing homes becoming a central theme of her life.
In 1956 she married right out of high school Harold “Sam” Samson, Owner of Double “B” Floor and Wall Covering in Baldwinsville.
They eventually moved from the home they built in Phoenix to Baldwinsville.
While raising three children, Audrey often assisted in the interior design and decorating of homes.
Divorcing after 14 years, she found the love of her life and married Gerald “Jerry” Freeman in 1977. While
James S. Edson, 80 loved the outdoors, poetry
James Stuart Edson, 80, of Skaneateles, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, in Syracuse, following a period of declining health.
Although born in Syracuse, Mr. Edson spent most of his life in the village of Skaneateles, a place he deeply loved and called home.
He was born on Oct. 24, 1944, the only child of 1st Lieutenant Stuart P. and Edith (Mason) Edson.
Lt. Edson was killed in action in Holland during World War II just weeks before his son’s birth, so Jim was raised by his mother, a devoted high school home economics teacher, who remained his guiding influence until her passing in 2021.
A 1962 graduate of Skaneateles Central High School, Mr. Edson was a wellrounded student and an active participant in school life.
He played basketball and ran track, served on the editorial board of the school newspaper, joined the Boys Leaders Club, sang with the Choralaires and was known for his spirited piano playing.
At Dartmouth College, he continued to engage in campus life through the Glee Club, Intramurals and the Dartmouth Outing Club.
He also pursued political interests and graduated in 1966 with a degree in government. He later earned a Master of Urban Planning from Syracuse University.
Mr. Edson found his greatest joy outdoors, especially while hiking in the Adirondacks.
He particularly cherished the trails at Baltimore Woods and Beaver Lake, where he found peace in nature.
When weather kept him indoors, he turned to poetry — a lifelong passion
Supervisor. He is well known as the politician that never lost an election. He was an avid golfer and obtained his first and only hole in one in 1985. He loved to watch SU sports and travel with his wife and family. Larry’s love for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was evident.
Larry was predeceased by his wife Betty (Kellogg) Gray, parents, Robert and Louise Gray, his brother, Robert Gray, his son Michael Gray and his grandson, Tyler Gray.
Larry was a devout Catholic and member of the St. Patrick’s Church, Jordan. Larry married the love of his life in 1949 at St. Patrick’s Church where he placed the Statue of the Pieta in her memory in 2014. Larry was awarded The Immaculata Award at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The award honors those who generously and unselfishly give of them -
raising their daughter, she provided babysitting services, mostly for single moms. She then became a bus attendant for Baldwinsville School District and adored working with children with special needs.
Her hobbies were filled with her compassion toward those struggling with cancer, or grief, and she made remembrance bears, quilts and hats to support them. She loved gardening and “digging in the dirt.”
She was very outgoing and her social life included activities at the Baldwinsville VFW, Ironwood Golf and Country Club, playing cards with friends and having family gatherings.
A favorite was jitterbugging with her husband Jerry at any chance. She enjoyed redecorating, home remodeling and tackled all the DIY projects herself.
A special talent was evident in her furniture refinishing abilities, chair canning and restoration skills. Her ability to complete crossword puzzles and word games was astounding, and she was an avid reader of any topic.
She spent many years tracing her genealogy back several generations and
and personal sanctuary.
“My thesaurus is my garden,” he once said, capturing his delight in language.
Survivors include numerous cousins and their families, from all over the Eastern Seaboard.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Brookfield, VT.
Jim Edson’s family would like to express profound gratitude to his neighbors and other members of the greater Skaneateles community who helped look after him in his later years. Their care and companionship allowed him to remain in his home, a gift that meant more to him than words can express.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Audubon New York, the Adirondack Mountain Club or the Finger Lakes Land Trust, in honor of Jim’s enduring love for the natural world.
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
selves to their parishes.
Surviving are his daughters, Linda (John) Tam of FL, Kathy (Mike) Farrugia of FL, Mary (Don) Bard of Auburn, Anne (Neal) Barrigar of Auburn, sons Larry (Janet) Gray of FL, Patrick (Mindy) Gray of FL and Daughter in law, Debbie of deceased son Michael Gray, 19 grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren.
Calling hours were held on Tuesday, June 10 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Services will be held on Wednesday, June 11 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s 28 North Main St., Jordan. Burial will be private family only in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Larry at Tunnels to Towers, by mail:2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
one of her greatest joys was attending the Lamb family reunions where she was surrounded by those she loved, often creating mischief and fun for the youngest of us. Standing at a mere 4’11” tall, she had a sizable spirit filled with fortitude, a quick wit and love of family.
She is survived by her children Gary Samson, Keith Samson, Patricia (Steve) Samson, Dawn (Mike) Bush and step-daughter Lynne (Jim) Fisher; grandchildren JR (Michaelle) Fisher, Jessie (Christian) Paige, Erica (Stephen) Farr, Brandi Freeman and Aiden Bush; and seven great-grandchildren; her sisters Polly Chabot, Helen Giucastro and brothers Dale (Pat) Lamb and Bruce Lamb; and several nieces and nephews.
Audrey is predeceased by her beloved husband of 38 years, Gerald F. Freeman; step-son Scott Freeman; brothers John and Charles Lamb, sisters Anna Larkin, Betty Prenis, Irene Barnes, Cora Miller, Arlene Girrard and Joan Lamb. Visitation will be held at Falardeau Funeral Home on Monday, June 23, 2025, 4-6 p.m., with a service beginning
Roberta Momberger avid
golfer
Roberta “Bobbie” Britain Momberger of Skaneateles and Fort Myers, FL, transitioned quietly March 21, 2025. She was born Jan. 29, 1936, to the late Leona Springer (Britain) Wood and Alan R. Britain, Sr. in Schenectady.
A graduate of Mont Pleasant High School in Schenectady, she worked for the telephone company, eventually marrying her husband of 61 years, the late Richard Momberger, Dec. 28, 1957.
A shared love of West Highland White Terriers led the couple to raise and show Westies while stationed out west with the U.S. Air Force.
They moved to Skaneateles with their two daughters in 1970 where Bobbie joined the Methodist Church, participated in Skan-e-antics and taught ice skating for many years for the Learn-to-Skate program at the Allyn Arena.
An avid golfer, she chaired the ladies 9-hole golf league at Skaneateles Country Club and was the first woman elected to the SCC board of directors.
She enjoyed family visits in the Adirondacks, exploring the west and traveling to Japan, the Netherlands, England and Scotland.
Upon retirement, she and Richard summered in Skaneateles, camped on Mount Desert Island, ME, in autumn, and wintered in Florida.
Bobbie is survived by her daughters, Sheri Flanigan (Paul) of Cicero, Kristen Britain of Mount Desert, ME;
her grandchildren, Amie Flanigan and James Flanigan; her half-brother, Alan R. Britain, Jr. (Geri) of Parker, CO, brother-in-law Terry Momberger (Marge) of Wappingers Falls, N.Y., cousins, and several grand cats and a grand dog.
On Thursday, June 19, at 11 a.m. a celebration of life memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church of Skaneateles.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the North Atlantic Westie Rescue (nawestierescue.org) and/or the Skaneateles United Methodist Church. To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
DEATH NOTICES
Bryce C. Pettitt, 38, of Memphis, (Jacks Reef) passed away May 31, 2025.
The Bush Funeral Home of Elbridge has arrangements.
Florence J. Baker, 76, of Liverpool, passed away May 23, 2025. Fergerson Funeral Home, North Syracuse, has arrangements.
at 6 p.m. Burial will be the following day, 11 a.m., at Riverview Cemetery. Audrey requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to the Baldwinsville Community Food Pantry, at the
Lawrence Gray
Audrey J Freeman
Roberta Momberger
James S. Edson
OuR vOiCE
Life
saver
According to the American Red Cross, May was Trauma Awareness Month, which the organization says is a powerful reminder that emergencies can happen at any time and that it’s the blood already on the shelves that saves lives when every second counts.
As we enter the summer season, the Red Cross reminds people that while this may be a time when many are focused on relaxing, maybe enjoying some time off or traveling for vacation, emergencies do not take a holiday.
The American Red Cross urges donors to keep the blood supply top of mind and help save lives by making an appointment to give blood or platelets.
According to the Red Cross, immediate access to blood products is a key part of summer safety.
With millions of Americans expected to travel and engage in water sports, boating, camping and other outdoor activities the risk of accidents increases.
Though it can be a busy time, making and keeping blood donation appointments remains a critical priority, according to the Red Cross.
Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are essential right now to meet the needs of hospitals.
By visiting RedCrossBlood.org, potential donors can learn about local blood drives as well as other taking place in the Central New York region over the next few months.
One such opportunity also serves as a way to help honor the memory and legacy of a local man who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
The Cpl. Kyle Schneider Memorial Blood Drive returns this summer, offering multiple ways for the community to honor a local hero who gave his life serving his country in Afghanistan.
Schneider, whose family hails from Baldwinsville, was a U.S. Marine who dedicated his life to serving his nation and community, and is remembered through this meaningful tribute that saves lives while preserving his legacy of service.
According to Schneider’s mother, Lorie, her son was a universal donor and in ever sense of the phrase, he gave everything he could in service to his country, and she encourages others to support this effort while also honoring the memory of her son.
According to the Red Cross, approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U. S. and nearly 5,000 units of platelets and 6,500 units of plasma are needed daily in the U.S. and nearly 16 million blood components are transfused each year in the U.S.
Sickle cell disease affects 90,000 to 100,000 people in the U.S. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year. Sickle cell patients can require blood transfusions throughout their lives.
The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately three units and a single car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood as a frame of reference.
Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured; they can only come from volunteer donors and the blood type most often requested by hospitals is type O and one donation can help save more than one life.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1.8 million people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2020. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatment
Each year, an estimated 6.8 million people in the U.S. donate blood and 13.6 million units of whole blood and red blood cells are collected in the U.S. in a year.
About 45% of people in the U.S. have Group O (positive or negative) blood; the proportion is higher among Hispanics (57%) and African Americans (51%).
Type O negative red cells can be given to patients of all blood types. Because only 7% of people in the U.S. are type O negative, it’s always in great demand and often in short supply.
Type AB plasma can be transfused to patients of all blood types. Since only 4% of people in the U.S. have type AB blood, this plasma is usually in short supply. Red blood cells must be used within 42 days or less and platelets must be used within just five days, the Red Cross said.
A few things to keep in mind according to the Red Cross as far as eligibility to donate is concerned include for whole blood donations this can be done every 56 days up to six times per year and donors must be in good health and 16 in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds.
For platelet donations this can bed one every seven days up to 24 times per year and also requires donors be feeling well and most states require donors to be at least 17 and weigh at least 110 pounds.
For more information visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
GAP yEAR dREAms
I think I need a “gap year.” You know, time away to be…well, less grumpy, stressed, outraged, disappointed ….wondering how things got to be this way. Seeking some light in a blue funk.
What I would do during this hiatus from my disconnected life is a tantalizing question.
First, I would make a list of the things that I would not do.
1. I would not shop for, store what I shopped for or prepare meals every day. Maybe once in a while when the spirit moves me, but every day? Yikes.
2. I would not agonize over the way the house looks. I don’t live in a magazine; it’s more like a yellowing old newspaper than Good Housekeeping.
3. I would not say yes to every ask for my time or my treasure. I would be clear that I am not open for business.
4. I will not unload the dishwasher or cart laundry up and down two flights of stairs and then figure out where to put the clean clothes that I’ve folded….not a chance.
5. I would not stay home. I would not miss my favorite TV programs, “All creatures Great and Small” and “Call the Midwife”… or reruns of “St. Elsewhere” and “Law and Order.”
So what would I do? I think I would order in a lot, or sample the cooking of eateries within a reasonable number of miles. Then there are no dishes to wash and put away. I would ignore all worrisome thoughts about nutrition and just go for what tastes good. If I ordered groceries delivered, I would find someone to put them away. I would hire someone to wash all my windows, sort and reorganize my closets and weed the garden. I would pack a lunch with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and lemonade and take off to explore roads I had never been on.
I would dress as I feel; this would mean mostly jeans and sweaters, fully cognizant that how one dresses can indicate a level of respect. I will have respectful clothing at the ready should the need occur. The shoe thing is something else. Like many, I love shoes, however, gravity and the fallout from an overactive fork have left me needing, more than preferring, high top sneakers rather
Magnificent
One of the first things you notice when you see the Kambuyu Marimba Ensemble is the teamwork.
Between tunes, the musicians swiftly switch off between seven home-made marimbas of varying tones, from bass to soprano, producing an eminently danceable picnic of polyphony spiced with a hint of pitch. After each number –like well-coordinated square dancers – the players each step briskly to their new position ready to hammer out the next number.
“We change marimbas with every song,” explains Diana Green, who has been a member of the ensemble for two decades. “I play all of them.”
The Syracuse-based Kambuyu Marimba Ensemble will perform a free concert from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at Johnson Park, as part of the 39th annual Liverpool Is The Place Summer Concert Series; liverpoolistheplace.co m
First formed in 2004
The Kambuyu Marimba Ensemble first formed in 2004 under the direction of composer-musician Stan Sitnik who had become an important part of the Zimbabwean music renaissance which blossomed in the early 1990s in the Pacific Northwest.
As chance would have it, Stan had returned to his native Central New York in 2003 to care for his ailing mother here in Liverpool, but he missed the marimba scene he’d discovered out west. So he placed an advertisement in a local newspaper seeking musicians
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Ramblings from the empty nest ann Ferro
than stilettoes. I would find and use services that qualify as self-care, even pampering, things like massages, hair care, manipedis, without feeling a gigantic guilt trip based on my acute awareness that there are people starving in other parts of the world or any of the other problems worldwide or local that keep me up at night. This is basically the same reason why I save the clean clothes out of dryer to fold while I am watching TV. Makes the time in front of the TV not feel so wasted. I would continue to support all of the rescue groups that care for abused, discarded and unwanted cats, dogs and all of God’s creatures without voices. Once you hear their voices, you will understand.
I would engage in conversations about whatever topic without fear that I would offend someone. In this gap year, no one will be the so touchy, so fragile, the “if you don’t agree with me, you are toast” people. Gosh, how many times have people sidled up to me and in sotto voce told me that they agree with something I wrote, but were afraid to say it out loud for fear of being shunned or, in today’s parlance, cancelled. In many ways, this gap year is a fantasy configured from snippets of memories of the 1950s and ’60s? I was as busy then, but I had more energy, not much hurt and, if it did, it went away. There was a sense that I was a part of something, a commonality, things shared and agreed on, people who didn’t assume that their view was the only view, a time when you could have conversations, discussions, even arguments without rancor. There was a something that united us. People argued over baseball but didn’t forswear speaking to someone who disagreed with them. It wasn’t that there weren’t pressures or life’s problems then. I guess that you felt that you had roadmaps, play books, values on which to lean when dealing with those problems. And thinking whether I could have written this in the 1960s? Probably not. Now there are too many options, too many choices to knit into your life, to weave questions without answers. In
marimbas
to perk up the park
interested in African music.
Livin’ in Liverpool
russ tarby
“It sounded pretty wacky,” says original ensemble member Carolyn Stafford. “But several of us went to try it out.”
Playing Stan’s instruments, the ladies were initially unable to perform full songs. “We’d just play parts,” Carolyn says. “It was a little disorganized, but Stan would teach us different parts every week. And we’d play that one thing over and over and over again.”
Before too long, those oftrepeated rhythmic progressions linked together to make a complete tune. Besides hitting the marimbas, Stafford oversees the band’s business affairs and website; kambuyumarimbas. com / The polyphonic rhythms produced by this group will thrill and amaze you. I urge you to do yourself and your family a favor, by attending Wednesday’s concert at Johnson Park.
Todd keeps cookin’
The Retreat’s longtime chef Todd O’Hara is celebrating 42 years in the kitchen. All those years of slicing and dicing, roasting and toasting, mixing and matching have inspired ever-inventive menus.
Bullhead at Euclid
Speaking of food, the historic Euclid Restaurant at 4285 State Route 31 at the corner of Morgan Road is now serving bullhead dinners for a limited time only. The mud cat’s most white flesh will delight your palate, but watch out for the bones!’
Historical open house
The Clay Historical Association will host an Open House from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 15 at Clay Historical Park, 4939 NY 31, Clay. All buildings will be open and manned by volunteers: Cigarville Train Station, replica log cabin, Sellen-Weller barn and Visitor Center. The buildings feature exhibits, artifacts, photographs, documents and other memorabilia that donated by town families. For further information call Cindy Redhead at 315-927-7573.
Last word
“For the past 62 years the Central Intelligence Agency (“CIA”) has actively and continuously obstructed the investigation of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy with no consequences for their actions.”
-- Dan Hardway, former researcher for the House Select Committee on Assassinations, in May 20 testimony before the new congressional Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets.
For instance last month The Retreat, 301 Vine St., introduced an entrée called “seafood martini,” a fulfilling pasta dish cleverly topped with several thick-sliced olives. They’re also serving a honey-garlic Norwegian salmon with white race and a delicious Tommy O’Brien strawberry and Maytag bleu salad topped with mandarin oranges. Sure, I’ll still order plenty of burgers and Philly cheesesteaks, wings and fried fish, but these new fancy menu items offer the spice of life.
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AlBERT hAmlin
BY JEFF SNOw
toWn of Clay hiStorian Clay hiStoriCal aSSoCiation member
Albert Hamlin was featured in last week’s article on the Cigarville Station regarding Arthur McArthur. The bottom left picture is Hamlin standing in the tobacco field.
This classic picture featuring Hamlin has been used many times since it was taken in 1937 by Theodore Schuelke.
Mr. Schuelke’s pictures were used in the Syracuse Post-Standard back in 1957 with the article talking about tobacco farming many years ago. This picture was also used in the Clay Historical calendar collection back in August of 1977 illustrated by the North Syracuse Art Guild.
The picture at the bottom right shows workers on Hamlin’s farm hanging tobacco to dry in one of the barns. Pictured from left to right is Frank Scovich, John Zarni and Albert’s son, Joe Hamlin.
The top left picture with the field shows tobacco being harvested back in 1937 on the Hamlin farm.
Albert Hamlin lived his whole life in the town of Clay from 1861 to 1940. He did farming his whole life, which is noted on the census. He is buried at the Morgan Meeting House Cemetery on Wetzel Road. Many other Hamlin family members are in this cemetery too. One of Albert’s notable family members pictured is Joseph A. Griffin who is his brother in-law. His name appears on the park in
Conservative Republicans
Liverpool near Onondaga Lake.
Stan Hamlin is Albert’s grandson, whose name appears on the Clay Marsh with Stan’s contributions to wildlife conservations including the sportsman side.
The picture on the right with the date 1933 is an article that was done on the Clay’s oldest log cabin that was on Henry Clay Boulevard. The short article was about Albert Hamlin and when he got the log cabin from the previous owner, the Gleason Estate back on 1905.
The pictures shows Hamlin with an oak bucket at a well.
The picture above shows him also with a scythe probably used to harvest crops. There seems to be many stories on who owned the log cabin prior but it seems to be first owned by Andrew Johnson.
The list continues with Abraham Morgan, Ralph Bulkley, Sam Melding, then the American Peat Company, Gleasons and then finally the Hamlins. After the Hamlins the log cabin was sold to the last owners, The Rod and Gun Club, before it was dismantled. A new log cabin was built in the late 1990s at the Clay historical park that resembles the Hamlin log cabin.
The picture in the bottom left is about 100 years old taken over where it once stood on Henry Clay Boulevard.
The Clay Historical Park is open this year on June 15, July 20, August 17, Sept. 20 and Oct. 19 from 1-3PM. Sept. 20 is the highlight of
To the editor: I was shocked when I learned that certain candidates in the Town of Cicero sent a mailing to Town of Cicero Republicans in which they termed themselves “Conservative Republicans.” They were not endorsed by the Town of Cicero Conservative Committee, not a single one of them.
The candidates endorsed by the Town of Cicero Conservative Committee and confirmed by the Onondaga County Conservative Committee are Town Supervisor Michael Aregano, and councilor candidates Jamie Pardee and Chris Daniel.
The candidates claiming to be “Conservative Republicans,” despite having been vehemently rejected by the Conservative
the year, with the park open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All the buildings are open including the log cabin, train station and an old barn that was moved across street that has many historical items from past farming years.
Any questions can be directed to historian@ townofclay.org. The Clay Historical Association meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Clay Historical Park. Those interested in attending, inviting others to join, or sharing any historical photographs are encouraged to reach out.
Party and its voters, are misleading Cicero voters. In fact, all of the accomplishments they claim for themselves were made possible by the leadership of Town Supervisor Michael Aregano. Cicero Republicans voting in the June 24 primary should be well aware that there are only three truly Conservative Republicans on the ballot –Mike Aregano, Jamie Pardee, and Chris Daniel. Those other candidates are intentionally misinforming those voters they claim to respect and whose votes they seek.
Please support Michael Aregano, Jamie Pardee, and Chris Daniel in the upcoming Republican Primary in Cicero. They have and will serve with honesty, integrity, and respect.
chRisTinE VARGA Chair, onondaga County ConServative Committee
Not worth it
To the editor:
The statement that Jeremy Garelick’s PR team put out for him was not a surprise to many Village of Liverpool residents. This is par for the course.
For years now Mr. Garelick and his staff at American High have disrupted our residential neighborhood in ways that they would never dream of doing at either one of the Garelick family’s multi-million dollar homes on Cazenovia Lake or in the suburbs of Fayetteville.
He knowingly does something that violates his permit, apologizes, feigns poverty, promises to do better, and rattles off a list of exaggerated stats. Rinse and repeat.
Mr. Garelick’s relationship with the Village of Liverpool is textbook abusive. Those on the
l From page 6 Gap Year
1960 we had one phone and it was a party line. Now we have six phones in the house and two cell phones … the latter’s power equivalent to something we couldn’t even imagine. Maybe that is why we often think of that time as simpler, because it was. We lived with the technology that existed. Our lives were lived in arenas that existed outside of the forces of big technology. We used it. It did not use us. Today, the technology offers too many options, too varied a field of choices, a far greater need to find the truth in all of this, with values that are conflicted by the overabundance of just about everything.
The one thing I wouldn’t be able to do in my gap year … fit into the clothing I wore in the wild hippie ’60s, even though I was only mildly hip, now mostly.
In my fantasy gap year, I would sit on my porch, hoping to hear the joy of children at play, neighbors chatting, lives being lived in homes they love. I would savor the moments, listening for that something for which I was searching.
In all honesty, I think I would be satisfied with a gap week, even a day.
Ann Ferro is a mother, a grandmother and a retired social studies teacher. While still figuring out what she wants to be when she grows up, she lives in Marcellus with lots of books, a spouse and a large orange cat.
FROM THE MAILBAG
PENNY SAVER
PENNY SAVER
Letters Syracuse Orchestra performs this summer
outside think he is a great guy, those of us on the inside know the truth.
The generators were not just “loud and disruptive.” They made the air in close proximity to two schools in a residential neighborhood so toxic that residents could not leave their windows open, sit outside on one of the few nice weekend days, and went into coughing fits while running or walking their dogs. The diesel generator issue was first brought up in 2020, where Mr. Garelick promised to have it fixed by September of 2022. He knew this would hurt residents and he quite simply didn’t care.
Mr. Garelick’s PR team claims that his goal was to “build something meaningful here in Liverpool” but to date they have only held a small number of community events, many that are disruptive to our residents, yet benefit him financially. The historic Zogg High School has fallen into disrepair. The beautiful turrets that were removed in January of 2022 were required to be replaced a year ago are still an eyesore, where what should be there is seen only when they are CGI’d into their movies. Landscaping around the building is overgrown or non-existent. Drainage is so poor that whole sections of sidewalk are unusable when it rains. Even worse, Mr. Garelick has now started purchasing homes around American High, outbidding potential homeowners that could be part of our community. Much like the historic Zogg building, these homes also need landscaping and cosmetic work.
American High currently receives a New York State Film Tax Credit, in addition to a 60% Property Tax Break as a “Non-profit Educational Institution”. Repeated requests for proof that they are operating a school on-premises have only been met with a list of on-line classes that they facilitate through Syracuse University. Meanwhile, the Village of Liverpool has incurred legal expenses in addition to the multiple hours spent by our codes officer, fire marshall, and police department. For anyone that would like to offer a commercial space for Mr. Garelick to transfer his operation to, we welcome it.
We are hopeful that another location will open up, because for me, photo shoots with celebrities at Dinosaur BBQ are just not worth the price we are paying.
Summer 2025 is nearly upon us, and The Syracuse Orchestra has several performances in a variety of locations to sweeten your family picnic outings!
June 30, 7 p.m. – Oswego
The Syracuse Orchestra performs inside historic Fort Ontario. Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket. a ticket.
July 2, 7:30 p.m. – Hamilton
The Syracuse Orchestra performs on the Village Green. Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket.
July 3, 8 p.m. – Auburn
The Syracuse Orchestra performs at the pavilion at Emerson Park on the north shore of Owasco Lake. Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music followed by fireworks.
This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket.
July 5, 7:30 p.m. – Fayetteville
The Syracuse Orchestra performs at Beard Park. Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket. (Rain Date: July 24, 7:30 p.m.)
Bus trip planned for Vietnam veterans to attend event
Vietnam Veterans in the Central New York area are invited on a bus trip to attend Fort Drum’s annual Mountainfest celebration on June 26, an event honoring soldiers, veterans and their families with a full day of patriotic festivities, military demonstrations, car show and more.
To coordinate attendance, local organizer Mike Hart is asking all interested Vietnam veterans to reach out no later than June 13.
Veterans who would like to attend should contact Hart at 315-882-6346 or mhart@salina.ny.u s Mountainfest, hosted by the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, is a unique opportunity for veterans to reconnect, be honored for their service, and enjoy the camaraderie of the military community.
July 11, 7:30 p.m. – Clayton
The Syracuse Orchestra pairs some of the most famous classical music selections with popular works from film composers and pieces from Broadway musicals. Tickets for this concert at the Clayton Opera House: $38.50-$48.50
July 23, 7:30 p.m. – Syracuse
The Syracuse Orchestra performs light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music at Inspiration Hall, 709 James Street. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket.
July 25, 7:30 p.m. – Cazenovia
The Syracuse Orchestra returns to
Lorenzo House. The program will include classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket.
July 26, 8 p.m. – Rome
The Syracuse Orchestra performs as part of Rome’s Honor America Days Festival. Enjoy light classical favorites, patriotic tunes, and popular standards. All ages are welcome for a relaxed evening of music followed by fireworks. This concert is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket. (Rain Date: July 27, 8 p.m.)
It’s “Disappointing”… but way too early to be frustrated.
Recently, a long time Liverpool resident/golfer told me…”the month of May had some of the worst weather CNY has experienced in many, many years”. He claims the weather is the reason he is frustrated and discouraged about his golf game because his performances in the two leagues and the three tournaments he has played in have produced the worst scores he has recorded in 20 years. l suspect there are several thousand golfers in CNY who probably feel the same way. Quite frankly, I don’t feel very good about my golf game right now either, but was my poor performance on the golf course directly related to the weather we have had to endure during the month of May? I say yes! Especially in contrast to the surprisingly good weather we enjoyed while playing in March and April? Remarkably, this is completely predictable around CNY because it has happened every one of the 27 years I have lived here.
I believe, in order to rationalize “anything”, you need to gather as much factual information as possible to arrive at conclusions that make the most sense. I found a great article written on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 11:06PM by Meteorologist Violet Scibior of CNY Central News.
It was revised on Tuesday, May 28, 2025 at 11:43AM. Violet reported that the, “total” rainfall in Syracuse for the month of May is exactly 5 inches. For your information, the most precipitation that Syracuse has ever received for one month was 15.7 inches which occurred in June 1922. at should settle one issue. e next time someone complains about the “5” plus inches we had in May, tell them to “suck it up”. e golfers, farmers and residents in 1922 must be laughing at us. Normally, up to this date, the total rainfall in May should be around 2.85 inches. is means we were 2.15 inches above normal. Currently, Syracuse ranks 13th place for “all time” rainest days in May. In 2004, Syracuse received 7.82 inches of rain, an “all-time” record. Not only was the total rainfall of “5” inches in May impressive, the frequency was remarkable. It rained 20 times during the rst 27 days in May. Not good for golf courses or golfers.
I believe we now have enough information to draw some conclusions.
#1- Did the 20 days of rain during the rst 27 days in May have anything to do with my friends “mental” approach to golf?
Answer: Absolutely! He “allowed” himself to become frustrated and discouraged. Frustration is a formula for poor performance. Do not “allow” anything that happens on a golf course or in your life to “frustrate or discourage” you.
#2. Did the amount of rain in May have anything to do with his “Course Management” on the golf course?
Answer: Absolutely! When fairways are wet and so , you should take at least one more club for a particular shot. It’s even possible that there might be a two or three club di erence depending on rain and wind.
#3- Did my friend play the same tees he usually plays from in both his league and tournaments?
Answer: Absolutely! It simply makes no sense for average golfers with swing speeds of less than 80MPH to play from the same tees as they play during the season. Even golfers with swings above 80MPH will have more di culty when playing in wet and windy conditions. e league o cers and tournament organizers should have been informed to re-consider their position. ENFLATED HANDICAPS are always a problem
#4- Should golf scores be recorded for handicap purposes in leagues during April and May in CNY if wet and windy conditions exist?
Answer: Absolutely not! Golfers in CNY with handicaps of 15 and above will usually play much worse in adverse conditions which will result in recording scores that will increase their handicaps proportionally higher than single digit golfers who are less a ected by wet and windy conditions because they simply hit the ball much farther and are much better players. ENFLATED HANDICAPS are always a problem.
#5. Did my friend forget to leave his ego and common sense home when he decided to accept the challenge to battle through adverse conditions on the golf course?
Answer: Absolutely he did! “Preparation and expectations” are necessary and encouraged at the beginning of the season and during the season to set goals. Setting yourself up for frustration, discouragement and poor performance, is a sign you do not have the “Knowledge, Experience nor the Mind-Set” to become a better player…yet!
Be “Patient”. When you are ready, you will know what to do.
MAYOR STACY L. FINNEY village of liverPool
By Phil BlAcKwEll
Though the Cicero-North Syracuse girls lacrosse has grown used to playing in - and winning - big games at SUNY-Cortland, the satisfaction felt at the end of last Monday night’s Section III Class A final was mixed in with a healthy dose of relief.
West Genesee did everything but beat the Northstars, staying on even terms with them most of the game and then, trailing late in the fourth quarter, staging a furious comeback before one successful draw allowed C-NS to hang on and prevail 18-17.
To say that this game defied expectations understates it. When these same two teams met in the regular season the Northstars dominated both contests, handling WG by a combined 29-7 margin.
Yet this was not the same Wildcats team of before. It had already turned around one set of regular-season results in the sectional semifinals May 29 when it beat Fayetteville-Manlius 13-10 after losing twice to the Hornets earlier in the spring.
Within the space of the first quarter this point was proven. C-NS jumped out to a 5-1 lead with its quick-strike attack only to have WG make up all the ground before the period ended and forge a 6-6 tie.
By the early portion of the second period the Wildcats had easily eclipsed the combined total of those first two games against the Northstars, and it had to since C-NS was converting at the same rate, the two sides also playing to a 6-6 stalemate in that frame.
Any question about whether WG could keep up its high level of play after this 12-12 first half was answered in the third quarter, for though the pace quieted down a bit the two sides remained close, WG tying it again at 15-15 when Molly Doran converted just before the period ended.
Only in the final period did C-NS appear to finally get control, inching ahead on consecutive goals from Sophia Graham and, with less than four minutes left, getting the margin to 18-15 on Elizabeth Smith’s third goal of the night. It would need every bit of that cushion.
WG cut the margin to two when Maria Snyder converted with 2:33 left and, despite the Northstars’ attempts to run out the clock, got within one
By Phil BlAcKwEll
Though delayed by nearly a week, area high school girls golfers did get in their Section III tournaments in much warmer and drier conditions last Tuesday morning.
In the Division I tournament at Pompey Club, Cicero-North Syracuse Blue recorded a second-place finish and, later in the week, saw Chloe Tice rise to the top of the standings at the sectional state qualifier.
They were originally scheduled to have the sectional team tournament on May 22 at Pompey Club, but constant rain forced a postponement for five days, and the improved weather led to solid scores from the Northstars.
With a team total of 376, C-NS Blue only trailed the undefeated regular-season SCAC Metro division champions from FayettevilleManlius Green who won yet another sectional title with 349.
Tice led the way as her 18-hole score of 83 put her fourth not far from the first-place 76 by Rome Free Academy’s Rachel O’Rourke. Both Tice and Abby Hildreth, who finished at 95, made it past this round to the state qualifier.
They held that qualifier Thursday at Cedar Lake Club in Clayville, near New Hartford, and the wet conditions did not faze Tice at all. Posting a 78, Tice easily won by five strokes over O’Rourke’s 83.
At this weekend’s state championships at Wild Wood Country Club in suburban Roches -
By Phil BlAcKwEll
Justin Barrett made his way back to Queens’ USTA-Billie Jean King National Tennis Center intent on chasing a New York State Public High School Athletic Association singles championship. The Liverpool junior had experience in this tournament, and he used it to make a run into the quarterfinals before seeing that ultimate prize slip away.
Starting last Friday morning, Barrett faced Hilton’s Damian Mesh, and it didn’t lake long as Barrett claimed the first set 6-2 and then shut out Mesh 6-0 in the second set to advance.
Later that day in the round of 16, it was Syosset standout Devan Jovani Melandro in Barrett’s way. Both sets would follow a similar pattern as Barrett got the service break he needed to win the opener
when Sophia Lawrence netted her fourth goal with 37 seconds to play, ample time to get a draw and threaten for a tying goal.
However, C-NS, so strong in the draw circle all season, claimed this one, too, and held on, having seen Natalie Wilson net a career-best six goals to lead her side and Graham add four goals.
Even with much of the Wildcats’ defensive focus on her, Sophia Nesci still scored twice and got three assists, with Miabella Gates also getting two goals. On WG’s side, Doran scored five times and Snyder matched Lawrence’s four goals.
Now C-NS would go for back-to-back state championships. In Wednesday’s opening round of regional play the Northstars steamrolled past Plattsburgh 25-1, led by Nesci’s four goals and two assists. Wilson, Putman and Vivianna Beardsley each recorded three-goal hat tricks as Addie Esce got two goals and two assists. Smith and Gates also scored twice.
This set up Saturday’s regional final against Section II’s Niskayuna at Queensbury High School with the winner back at Cortland for this weekend’s state final four.
And the Northstars kept on rolling, bashing Nisky 22-9 by not waiting to make a decisive move.
Following a quick exchange of goals C-NS reeled off five in a row, Putman gaining draws and her teammates turning them into scoring plays. By the end of the first period the Northstars held a 9-3 edge.
Maintaining the torrid pace, C-NS grew the margin to double digits in the second period, ultimately up 14-4 by halftime with seven different goal-scorers and then holding Nisky to a single goal in the third period to prevent any possible comeback.
Smith and Graham led with five goals apiece. Nesci scored four times to go with three assists, Wilson adding three goals and Putman two goals and an assist to go with 19 successful draws. Gates picked up a goal and three assists.
This Friday at 11:30 a.m. at SUNY-Cortland the Northstars face Section V’s Penfield in the state semifinals. The winner gets to the title game 24 hours later on that same turf as C-NS is two wins from repeating as state champions.
ter Tice is joined by both Rachel and Isabella O’Rourke from RFA along with F-M’s Bella Fullmer and Lindsey Chong, with Ellie Kent (West Genesee), Layla Smart (Christian Brothers Academy) and Ellie Secor (Remsen) also on the team.
Back on May 21 and 23 the boys sectional state qualifier did play in the rainy conditions at Colgate University’s Seven Oaks Club where C-NS Blue’s Drew Kippen would keep his season going.
Kippen shot a 79 in the opening round. Then he tacked on an 80 two days later which, with a score of 159, put him in a tie for eighth place with New Hartford’s J.P. Lazzaro.
Only the top nine finishers advanced to the state tournament next week at Mill Creek Golf Club near Rochester, so Kippen made it by a single shot over South Jefferson’s Jude Jennings who had a 160.
Cooper Stimson and Nate Bustin both shot 91 in the opening round for the Northstars and missed the 18-hole cut.
Kippen and Lazzaro join a sectional team for the NYSPHSAA tournament led by Jamesville-DeWitt’s Jackson Saroney, who with a two-under-par 142 beat the field at the qualifier by seven strokes.
The other sectional team members include Drew Mancini (Skaneateles), Dan Young (Westhill), Jon Shoults (West Genesee), Brayden Sentz (Cooperstown), Jake Olearczyk (Holland Patent) and Tommy Goodelle (New Hartford).
6-3 and then take the second set by that exact same score. By this point all the other Section III players, singles and doubles, were out of championship contention, with Cortland’s Tyler Cranfield taking a second-round defeat as Barrett advanced and Manlius Pebble Hill’s Jaasim Zaman swept in the first round. Starting at 7:30 on Saturday morning to beat incoming wet weather, Barrett faced Roslyn’s Ethan Solop, a remarkable story. Back in 2023, Solop was in the car when two of his Roslyn teammates were killed in an automobile accident caused by a wrong-way drunken driver.
Now headed for Villanova University, Solon kept Barrett hemmed in during a 6-2 opening set. Though he nearly pulled even in the second set, one service break helped Solon prevail 6-4 and conclude Barrett’s state title quest.
C-NS, Liverpool track stars roll at state qualifier
By Phil BlAcKwEll
Fresh off winning Section III championships, the Liverpool girls and Cicero-North Syracuse boys track and field teams returned to Bragman Stadium a week later for the sectional state qualifying meet.
And more victories followed, especially in Thursday’s girls Class A state qualifier where, again, the Warriors and Northstars swept to the top spots in several different events.
In Liverpool’s case Nahla Battle-Crenshaw took the 100-meter dash in 12.14 seconds after she helped Mia Wright, Maddie Devendorf and Mikayla Greene go 47.05 and win the 4x100, with C-NS also advancing to the state meet as Jaydin Mackey, Aaliyah McDonald, Grace Murray and Selena Moreno posted 47.84. Wright beat the field in the 400-meter dash in 56.57 seconds and as second in the 200 in 25.59 ahead of Devendorf (25.96) and BattleCrenshaw (26.39), while Greene was fourth in the 100 in 12.54. Georgia Jwaskiewicz added a high jump victory as she managed to clear 5 feet 3 inches.
Also Liverpool was victorious in the 4x800 as Kaitlyn Hotaling, Taylor Page, Chloe Ryan and Katite Martin finished in 9:49.44, the only time under 10 minutes. Jillian Fox, Faith Graham, Leah Jackstadt and Jahnaysia Jordan went 4:08.74 for second place in the 4x400 to Baldwinsville’s 4:02.59.
And just like in the sectional Class A meet the Warriors went 1-2 in the pentathlon, Taima Tearney getting away in the final 800-meter run for 2,861 points to June Piorkowski’s 2,688. C-NS had Goddess Muhammad fourth with 2,281.
Hotaling earned second place in the 3,000meter run in 10:12.04, while Maggie Sherlock was third in the 2,000 steeplechase in 7:48.19 and Alainees Leon topping 8’6” for third place in the pole vault.
For C-NS Anna Eells won twice as she went 14.25 seconds to edge McDonald (14.38) in the 100 hurdles though both advanced to the state meet, and Eells unleashed a triple jump of 41’11 1/4” to rout the field.
Moreno, who was fifth in the triple jump, won the long jump going 18’10 1/2’ to beat Eells’ 18’7 1/4” as Devendorf (17’11 1/2”) finished fourth.
Murray won, too, her time of 1:02.35 part of a 1-2-3 sweep in the 400 hurdles where McDonald (1:02.53) and Stephanie Todd (1:02.95) also earned state meet berths. Cameron Sisk finished fifth in the 800 in 2:23.29.
Two days earlier in the boys sectional Class A state qualifier C-NS’s Camron Ingram, a favorite in the state meet in the 110 hurdles, went 21.79 seconds in the 200 second to Fayetteville-Manlius standout Nikita Domashenko (21.29),with Christian Kahrs finishing fifth in 22.72.
Antwan Maxwell won the 110 hurdles in 15.37 seconds while, in the triple jump, Anthony Johnson beat the field with 46 feet 7 ½ inches after he was fourth (21’8”) in the long jump ahead of Zuriel Dickerson (20’9”) and Prodigy Shepherd (20’2 1/4”). Jefferson Cazimir (43’1 1/2/) edged Matt Freeman (43’ 1/2”) for fourth in the triple jump.
A closely-fought boys pentathlon had C-NS’s Andrew Potter edge Baldwinsville’s London Premo by four points, 3,222 to 3,218, though both easily advanced to the state meet as Liverpool’s Taj Ryan was fifth with 2,656. Dominic Petrera, Tyler Graham, Joe Massett and Dante Melfi were second in the 4x800 relay in 8:04.70 with Liverpool fourth in 8:44.88 to go with a fourth in the 4x100 in 44.23 seconds as the Warriors’ quartet of Dylan McCoy, Jack Monroe, Logan Otero and Brayden Smith got to second in the 4x400 in 3:31.58 behind West Genesee’s 3:28.43. Nolan Zinsmeyer got second in Class A in the 3,000 steeplechase in 10:21.51, with Dan Henry second in the 400-meter dash in 50.93 seconds as Christian Kahrs (52.51) was sixth. Rhett Andrews ran the 3,200 in 9:58.20 edging Liverpool’s Mason Dineen (9:58.35) for third in Class A.
Liverpool got a win from Smith in the 400 hurdles as his 55.42 seconds edged the 55.54 from Fayetteville-Manlius Alex Shim, while Ty’Kere Jones threw the shot put 48’6 1/4” for third place. Josh Vang got third in the Class A 1,600-meter run in 4:39.98 beating out Jackson Allen (4:40.77) in fourth place. Ade Adefashola cleared 5’8” to finish seventh in the high jump.
and even threatened to move out of Liverpool in 2020 when Reagan demanded sprinklers be installed to meet state fire codes. The studio reached a compromise over the sprinklers issue by installing fire walls after
receiving an Onondaga County grant.
Liverpool Mayor Stacy Finney said she’s fed up with Garelick’s excuses.
“The statement that Jeremy Garelick’s PR team put out for him was not a surprise to many village of Liverpool residents,” she wrote. “This is par for the course. For years now Mr. Garelick and his staff at
American High have disrupted our residential neighborhood in ways that they would never dream of doing at either one of the Garelick families multi-million dollar homes on Cazenovia Lake or in the suburbs of Fayetteville,” she wrote in a June 6 letter to the editor of the Star-Review. “He knowingly does something that violates his permit, apologizes, feigns poverty, promises to do better, and rattles off a list of exaggerated stats. Rinse and repeat. Mr. Garelick’s relationship with the village of Liverpool is textbook abusive. Those on the outside think he is a great guy, those of us on the inside know the truth.”
Finney said that two generators — not one — made the air in a residential neigh-
good book.”
borhood so toxic that people could not leave their windows open, sit outside or walk their dogs.
Garelick admitted that the generator caused problems.
“Let me start by saying: I hear you. And I understand why you’re upset,” Garelick wrote in a letter he posted on social media “The generator we used during our recent shoot was loud, disruptive, and violated the agreement we made with the village. Our permit clearly prohibits outdoor generators, and we continued using one, even after receiving cease and desist orders. That was wrong. I take full responsibility and sincerely apologize for the impact this has caused.”
dations/my-next-good-read
