Mohawk Valley Living 123 Feb 2024

BETWEEN WORLDS STORIES OF ARTISTS AND MIGRATION

ON VIEW FEB. 17 THROUGH MAY 5

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Munson’s exhibition series is sponsored by Elizabeth R. Lemieux, Ph.D., and the Family of F. X. Matt II Artwork: Phil Young (Scots-Irish and Cherokee, born 1947). Glen Canyon Desecrations No. 3, 1990. Acrylic and sand on canvas. 77 × 55 in. 2021.10.

310 Genesee St. | Utica, NY 13502 | munson.art

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People gather to watch demonstrations during the Kirkland Art Center’s Pottery Open Studio

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contents 4 Contest Answers 6 Matt Perry’s Nature 13 Restaurant Guide 16 Antiques Guide 19 Nature in February 21 MV Astronomy Club 24 MV Crossword 25 On The Farm with Suzie 29 Making History 31 MV Restaurant 34 MV Classical 35 MV Arts 37 Gallery Guide 39 Oneida County History Center 41 Tales from Shawangunk 46 Advertiser Directory

Fire in the Belly

by Sharry L. Whitney

Deep in the basement of the Kirkland Art Center, there’s a fire burning. Yes, there’s a kiln down there, but that was just the spark that ignited a flame.

On a crisp, cold evening in early January, three young potters gathered at Clinton Pottery to enjoy woodfired pizza from a clay oven made by the evening’s host, Jonathan Woodward. They came together to ponder the possibilities of forming a collective. Christina Maki-Strong, Kayla Spivey, and Martha Redmond became the founding members of the KAC Pottery Collective.

The three spoke individually about their personal goals and how, working together, they could support each other and other potters looking to develop their creative and business skills.

“Jonathan helped me price my pottery, but I didn’t believe people would actually buy my stuff,” Spivey said when recalling her first pottery sale. “I almost sold out!” That initial success encouraged her to take her art more seriously.

Redmond, who apprenticed under Woodward, also wants to learn more about the business side of pottery and would like to develop intermediate and advanced pottery students through classes at the KAC. Pottery is literally in Clinton’s DNA, as many residents discover when they dig in their backyards and unearth red iron ore. Redware—pottery made from iron-rich clay—was a popular commodity in the 1800s.

Clinton’s first known potter, Erastus Barnes, arrived in 1801. He was followed by successful potter, John Betts Gregory, who had a business on College Street from the early 1800s until 1831.

Three weeks after the formation of this new collective, Maki-Strong, the KAC Pottery Studio manager, hosted the collective’s first Open Studio at the KAC. It was a great success, with both new and accomplished potters attending to watch demonstrations and discuss all things pottery—drawn like moths to the flame. •

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Next to him you’ll find a letter. Find all the Riggies and rearrange the letters to answer this riddle. Submit your answer by the 15th of the month to be entered in drawing for a $100 shopping spree at the advertiser of your choice!

MOHAWK VALLEY LIVING MAGAZINE February 2024

PUBLISHERS Lance and Sharry Whitney EDITOR Sharry L. Whitney DESIGN & LAYOUT Lance David Whitney ASSISTANT EDITOR Shelley Malenowski CONTRIBUTORS Peggy Spencer Behrendt, Carol Higgins, Suzie Jones, Rebecca McLain, Cassandra Miller, Matt Perry, Cynthia Quackenbush, Maryann Vanderpool-Imundo, Gary VanRiper CONTACT US (315) 853-7133 30 Kellogg Street Clinton, NY 13323 www.MohawkValleyLiving.com mohawkvalleyliving@hotmail.com Mohawk Valley Living is a monthly magazine and television show that explore the area’s arts, culture, and heritage.

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of Mohawk Valley Living, Inc.

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Mohawk Valley nature Pippin takes a sweet potato slice

A Year in the Life of the Spring Farm Beavers Tosh coming and Tippy going 6

(part 2)

story & photos by matt perry

By the end of May, we had entered a prolonged dry spell, and the Beavers keenly observed the reduced flow of the stream that fed their ponds. Recognizing the importance of conserving water, they effectively tightened up the dam, thus compensating for the diminished water supply. This time was characterized by unseasonably hot afternoons and a lack of rainfall.

Despite that, the Beavers’ habitat continued to be well-watered and lush. This is illustrative of Beavers’ value in an ecosystem. Their pond creation not only adds to the availability of surface water for local wildlife and plants, but it also recharges ground water, thus affecting a much greater area around their pond systems. This is why people in drought-prone Western States have discovered the value of coexisting with Beavers.

In late June, I noticed that the parent Beavers were transporting food to the east side of the pond.

The previous year, a second lodge had been excavated near an upturned willow tree on the southeast side of the pond. Despite being unfinished, the Beavers had now, unexpectedly, relocated to this alternate dwelling. Working by night, they enhanced its roof with mud and branches, and renovated the structure’s inner chamber. The motive behind this sudden move was a mystery. As far as I could see, the old lodge appeared in good condition and hardly deserving of abandonment.

Unfortunately, I missed witnessing the actual move. In twenty-four years of observing Beavers, I had only witnessed mother Beavers relocating

their kits between lodges twice.

On July 2nd, I had my first glimpse of two of the new kits as they swam together outside the new lodge. Tippy and a couple of the yearlings were also present, though they weren’t interacting with the kits. The kits appeared healthy and exhibited normal behavior during the brief observation. Their playtime concluded after just a few minutes, as they swiftly dove back into the safety of the lodge.

As it happened, it wasn’t long before I stumbled upon a potential explanation for the Beavers’ relocation. It seemed that all the Beavers I encountered, especially the older ones, were afflicted with ticks—and not just ordinary ticks, but a species highly specialized in parasitizing aquatic mammals. These whitish ticks, known as Pale Beaver Ticks, were something I had never encountered before. To endure being underwater for extended periods, the parasites attached themselves to the skin inside the Beaver’s nostrils, and ears— areas protected from water by the Beaver’s specialized valves. When Beavers submerge, their orifices close off, inadvertently shielding the ticks from drowning. Considering the lack of communication between distant Beaver colonies, I speculated that the ticks had been introduced by a Muskrat or another aquatic mammal that travels widely. The Beavers’ recent move to the new lodge could have been triggered by a tick infestation in the old lodge. Frustratingly, despite my extensive search, I could find no information on

GenLo walks down the ramp trail between ponds the health implications for Beavers hosting these ticks. While I learned that Pale Beaver Ticks can carry Lyme Disease, there was no information on what other diseases they may carry or even how Lyme Disease affects Beavers.

By early July, a noticeable shift in weather occurred, breaking the grip of drought with semi-regular rainfall. This welcome change brought relief to both plant and animal life. Additionally, the persistent smoky haze that had enveloped the region for over a month, originating from distant Canadian wildfires, began to dissipate. Fortunately, the tick infestation was also showing signs of abating, bringing great relief to the Beavers. GenLo still had a few lingering ticks attached inside a nostril, but by the end of the first week of July, even those were shed. Interestingly, while the parent Beavers continued to bring their food into the new lodge, the new kits returned to the old lodge. I became aware of this through the

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mewing calls emanating from inside. What remained unclear was whether Tippy had moved them back or if the kits had made the decision to move by themselves.

In mid-July, consistent rainfall persisted, creating warm and humid conditions that transformed the Beaver Pond area into a scene suggestive of the tropics. By the end of July, the Beavers had intensified their efforts revamping their pond system. They constructed a new dam and a small pond downstream and near one of our footbridges. Remarkably, the Beavers avoided disrupting our bridge and limited their earth-moving activities to the stream bed just east of it.

In the middle of August, the Beavers had stepped-up their logging operations, establishing new foraging trails. At this time, the purpose behind constructing the new pond by the bridge became evident – it would function as a central hub for multiple overland trails extending into the surrounding habitat. On the afternoon of August 16th, Fuji was busy in the field, gathering small saplings and dragging them back to the pond.

That same afternoon, while I watched from the shelter at Julia’s Pond, one of the new kits surfaced near the lodge. She was out for only a few seconds before diving again. During that fleeting moment, I detected a distinct head tilt in the kit.

Such a condition can arise from various factors, some of which may be serious and life-threatening.

On the morning of August 20th, I arrived at Julia’s Pond early, and immediately heard rustling

in the meadow near the shelter. To my surprise, it was caused by one of the new Beaver kits. He was on shore, feeding on meadow plants. However, I noticed he was struggling to maintain balance, and he frequently toppled over. After observing for about 10 minutes, I decided the kit required a health evaluation. My colleague, Alyssa, brought over a pet carrier from Spring Farm, and I went about capturing the kit. While I initially assumed this was the same Beaver with a head tilt that I had seen a few days earlier. With relative ease, I secured the youngster with a net and placed him in the carrier. I then consulted with wildlife rehabilitators Judy Cusworth and Deb Saltis, and the consensus was to bring the Beaver to the wildlife clinic at Cornell for evaluation and treatment. As they drove away, I understood there was a high probability we would not see the kit again.

In the afternoon at the beaver pond, the Beavers didn’t come out at the usual time, a not uncommon occurrence as they often alter their schedule without warning. However, I couldn’t help but wonder if their hesitation to come out was linked to the recent removal of one of their family members. At approximately 3:45 PM, a littermate of the captured kit briefly surfaced, offering a momentary glance before swiftly diving back into the lodge.

Despite the brief observation, I identified it as the same kit with the head tilt that I had seen a few days earlier. This meant that the one I had captured was not the kit

with the head tilt. The implication was that there might be more than one kit with health issues. As fate would have it, another surprise awaited. A third Beaver kit emerged next, and he didn’t seem quite right either. After coming ashore for a slice of potato, he promptly stumbled, even though there were no obstacles in his path. However, besides that one unsteady moment, he behaved normally and exhibited no head tilt. After taking his treat, he returned to the pond, swam to the lodge, and dove inside.

At the Cornell clinic, the Beaver kit, now named Aspen, underwent treatment for Raccoon Roundworm, although my understanding is that there is no effective treatment for that ailment.

Aspen also had been put on antibiotics to address a potential ear infection. The fear of Beavers contracting Raccoon Roundworm had always been present. This parasite primarily affects Raccoons, but its impact extends to various wildlife species.

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Aspen receives care at Woodhaven Wildlife Center

When Raccoons shed the parasite’s eggs in their feces, it contaminates the environment. Other animals, particularly small mammals and birds, can unintentionally ingest the eggs, leading to larvae hatching. In non-raccoon species, infection can result in organ damage, and death. Raccoon Roundworm often affects non-raccoons by targeting the brain, causing pronounced neurological abnormalities that impair motor functions, resulting in circling behavior, stumbling, and a severe head tilt. While questioning the likelihood that all three kits had ingested Roundworm eggs, I wondered if Aspen, and perhaps the other kits, had instead contracted a different disease – something that exhibited similar symptoms to Raccoon Roundworm but was passed to them through the Pale Beaver Ticks. Admittedly, there was no concrete evidence supporting this.

On September 1st, Aspen was transferred to Woodhaven Wildlife Center for recovery under the care of Judy Cusworth, which came as a surprise to us all, including Judy. Our surprise stemmed from the common understanding that animals do not typically recover from Raccoon Roundworm. Apparently, there was some uncertainty about the diagnosis. While we anticipated receiving an animal that had made a partial recovery, that was not the case. The kit still tended to fall over and was slow to regain his footing. Also, he had developed an unusual aversion to being in the water. When placed in a tub, he immediately attempted to escape but lacked the strength or ability to do so. However, on September 3rd, we observed some slight improvement in the patient and dared to hope he was on the mend. While he still experienced occasional falls, he seemed to be getting up more quickly afterward. He was also displaying a growing curiosity about his surroundings. Less encouragingly, he had eaten only a minimal amount of the poplar leaves provided a few days earlier, which was unusual as poplar leaves are typically a Beaver’s favorite food. He showed a stronger preference for produce, particularly apples, carrots, and sweet potatoes. One certainty remained: for him to return to his colony, he would need to regain the ability to be in the water and consume his natural diet of tree leaves and bark.

Back at the nature preserve, the entire colony transitioned back to living in the old lodge. The parents reverted to using the new lodge only as a private retreat where they could enjoy their snacks without being pestered. Aspen’s two littermates, now named Wigeon and Chinquapin, appeared to be doing well.

They were observed engaging in typical Beaver activities such as swimming, diving, and consuming their usual diet. However, Wigeon soon began facing challenges in locating food both on

GenLo, the colony patriarch, enjoys his treat

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the shore and in the water. Signs of deteriorating vision became evident as he occasionally collided with objects in the water. Moreover, sometimes he had trouble locating the spot over the lodge entrance where he had to dive. Meanwhile, at Woodhaven, Aspen’s condition deteriorated, and he experienced weight loss. He also became reluctant to leave the fabricated den provided by Judy. After another week, they sadly made the decision to euthanize him. In the quest for answers, Aspen’s body was sent to a DEC lab for a necropsy, providing a glimmer of hope that we might finally understand the underlying issue that had plagued him.

Life continued for the Spring Farm Beavers, and by mid-September, they started making their food cache. This preparation would ensure the colony would have ample provisions to survive the winter. Similar to the previous year, the cache was positioned in deep water, just to the north of the old lodge. To build the cache, the Beavers had intensified their logging activities, utilizing existing trails and crafting new ones to maximize their exploitation of the food resources in the surrounding meadows.

Activities at the pond system extended beyond the work on the cache and dams. Notably, renovations were undertaken in earnest on the old lodge. Primarily during the night, the Beavers dragged branches and transported mud onto the lodge’s roof. Their focus was on enhancing the smaller of the structure’s two main humps.

By the conclusion of September, that modest hump had undergone substantial expansion, resulting in a considerable enlargement of the living area within.

On October 3rd, the parents and yearling Beavers worked late into the mornings – which traditionally is an unusual time for stepped-up Beaver activity. Tasks varied, with some Beavers focusing on winterizing the old lodge by applying fresh mud to its lattice of interwoven branches. Others were involved in cutting saplings from the meadows, dragging them along trails, hauling them over dams and through ponds, and sinking them into the food cache.

GenLo had recently cut down and limbed a sizable Big-tooth Aspen tree in the high field, and both he and Tippy made multiple trips to retrieve its branches. Meanwhile, the two young kits came out of the lodge. Chinquapin emerged only briefly, but Wigeon stayed out for quite a while.

To maintain my own stash of saplings for the Beavers, and to keep them fresh, I placed about twenty in buckets of water and positioned them on one of our trails far from the ponds. GenLo has never been a fan of me having my own store of poplar trees, and every year he makes it his business to find my hiding spot and pilfer the goods. I thought that having the trees in tall buckets in an obscure place might dissuade his thievery, but I was wrong. A few nights after I set up the new system, GenLo found the trees and cut all of them off at the point where they emerged from their buckets, leaving me only about a foot of the butt end of each tree’s trunk. He then dragged the leafy tops across the meadow, over our man-made pond, across the berm, down the embankment into Julia’s Pond, and finally to the food cache.

In mid-November, the weather shifted, and colder temperatures prevailed in the region. On the morning of November 13th, a layer of ice appeared on the pond for the first time this season, presenting a new challenge for kits that had never before encountered ice. I

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Judy Cusworth cares for the kit “Aspen” found myself apprehensive about how Wigeon, with his handicap, would react to the ice. In the days before the ice had come, he had cleverly started taking his potato treats to the dam, away from his competitors. With the arrival of the ice, the kit lost his open water spot by the dam, forcing him to bring his treats into the lodge, where he once again had to contend with thieves, including Chinquapin. My primary concern, though, was that the young Beaver, unfamiliar with the ice cover, might become disoriented and unable to find ice holes where he could surface and breathe.

Fortunately, I observed him navigating well under the ice, traversing the west section of the pond, swimming beneath the food cache, and resurfacing at the lodge. Perhaps he would be able to adapt to the changing conditions.

In the initial days of December, only the three yearlings and Chinquapin were emerging in the afternoons. The last day I saw Wigeon was on November 30th. On that day he appeared to be conducting himself in his usual manner – coping with his handicap. As it happened, I would not see him again for the balance of the year. With Beavers it is not unusual to go for months without seeing an individual colony member; it happens fairly regularly that one or the other family member decides not to come out during daylight hours for an extended period. Though hesitant to

conclude that Wigeon was lost—perhaps taken by a predator or too ill to emerge—each day I did not see him made me wonder. As weeks passed, I began regretting my non-interventionist stance regarding his health issues. Having previously intervened with one of the family’s kits with unsatisfactory results, I found it hard to justify taking Wigeon. Some weeks earlier, I explored the option of placing him in a facility where he could spend the winter and be observed and cared for, but the only available choice fell through. In the end, I thought it best to let him stay with his own family and merely observe how he coped. I thought I would be able to intervene if needed.

The initial findings from Aspen’s necropsy arrived in December, providing somewhat limited insights. Apart from ruling out Raccoon Roundworm, the results were not particularly conclusive. There was a suggestion of toxoplasmosis, attributed to a protozoan, although there seemed to be some uncertainty surrounding that diagnosis as well. Even if confirmed, toxoplasmosis might not fully account for the observed symptoms.

On the night of December 17th, a torrential downpour commenced and persisted through the following day, ceasing in midafternoon after a substantial 4-inch rainfall. This deluge resulted in flash flooding, causing all our creeks, including the one that feeds the Beaver ponds, to swell well beyond their banks. Consequently, the beaver dams faced a rigorous test. During the morning when floodwaters reached their peak, a tumultuous flow cascaded over the middle of the dam at Julia’s Pond, transforming the Beavers’ ramp trail into a roaring waterfall. The rising waters in a lower pond prevented me from wading through to get a photo of the waterfall spectacle. Fortunately, the primary pond’s dam held, even while some smaller ponds’ dams suffered breaches. Experiencing such a flood in the latter part of December is unusual, and it represents a potential catastrophe for a Beaver colony. Had the dam at Julia’s Pond ruptured—and if that had been followed by a subsequent freeze—the Beavers would have been unable to access their food cache or use their lodge safely. This is because lodge entrances and the food cache are designed to remain below the waterline at all times.

I would typically imagine the Beaver colony

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rallying for an all-hands-on-deck moment during such a potentially catastrophic event – each member metaphorically armed with shovels, ready and eager to fortify the ramparts. However, at the peak of the storm, GenLo and some of his yearling apprentices were not at home bolstering the dam, instead they were engaged in a midnight raid on my latest poplar stash. They successfully made off with all the saplings and branches I had been stockpiling. I noticed their distinctive footprints and the drag marks of trees leading from the pilfered pile, down the muddy access road, and into the swollen stream. A clean getaway, indeed.

As the month and the year drew to a close, winter’s grip on the Mohawk Valley seemed elusive. It teased us with brief spells of cold weather and light dustings of snow, only to relent and relax into what felt like an extended fall or an early spring. The Beavers, however, found this weather agreeable. As long as the conditions remained wet, muddy, and relatively ice-free, the more time they had to continue their winter preparations— expanding their food cache and reinforcing their lodges and dams. Regrettably, the season concluded with a smaller Beaver colony than they would have had, with Aspen’s fate known but Wigeon’s still uncertain. On the positive side, Chinquapin appeared to be thriving and the three yearlings also appeared to be in good health. As for the parents, Tippy and GenLo, they seemed ready to begin their 13th year on the property in a strong position. Our hopes, along with the hopes of all the wetland dependent creatures on the property, rest on the Beavers’ well-being, trusting that they will remain healthy and resilient wetland stewards throughout the rest of winter and all seasons beyond. •

Matt Perry is Conservation Director and Resident Naturalist at Spring Farm CARES in Clinton. He manages a 260 acre nature preserve which is open for tours by appointment. His nature videos and photos can be found on the Spring Farm CARES’ Nature Sanctuary Facebook page.

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LifeOffering is Good The Tavern!Reservations PubatFare & Ohio Daily Specials!

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Fresh Haddock Giambotta

Serving Lunch & Dinner Lunches Served Friday & Saturday

9663 River Rd., Marcy

Thank you for another great year!

Welcome 2024!

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Mushroom Stew Chicken & Biscuits Meatloaf Goulash & More!

Mon-Thu 6am-1pm, Fri 6am-7pm, Sat 6am-Noon, Sun 7am-Noon

Happy Hour Daily 4-7, $2.75 Drafts & $3 Well Mixers

Tuesday: All-U-Can-Eat Spaghetti Wednesday: Pasta and Wings Specials Thursday: All-U-Can-Eat Chicken Riggies

Breakfast, Lunch, Deliveries, Take Out & Catering!

Catering & Banquet Facilities Available • www.69steakhouse.com

Check out our weekly specials on facebook and at www.rososcafe.com

315 735-7676

Sheri’s

EASTSIDE DINER Breakfast • Lunch Homemade & Fresh Daily!

Outside Seating & Grab-and-Go Available!

Open: Monday-Friday: 8-2 185 Genesee St 2nd Floor, Utica

Call us for your work or family gatherings

409 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro • (315) 736-7869

To Place Orders, Call, (315) 896-2173!!

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Tomato Pie

Please order one day in advance $11 +tax

Friday Fish Fry • Breakfast Served All Day

Follow Us Online For Updates!!

2199 Bleecker St., Utica (315) 790-5250 Open 7 Days a Week, 7am-2pm

best burgers around!

“We are your home town pizzeria!”

Order online or on our app!

Clinton: (315) 853-4310

New Hartford: (315) 736-4549

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41 College Street

4462 Commercial Dr.

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2 Locations: 219 N. Genesee St., Utica 1401 Oriskany Street W., Utica

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Free Delivery (min. $25) • Family Owned & Operated!

Friday Fish Fry!

11:30am-8pm

Open friday for Dinner!

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Contemporary American • Private Functions • Reservations Recommended

900 Culver Ave., Utica • 315-765-0271 • Open Wed-Sat 4:30-8pm Visit www.willowsofutica.com

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mv living

antique shopping guide Little Falls Herkimer

SHOWCASE

ER

TO HERKIM

Antiques of CNY K

OHAW

TO M

Antiquers Y Little Falls!

Little Falls

Antique Center

Mohawk

MOHAWK ANTIQUES MALL

BlackCat

ANTIQUES & GIFTS A primitive and country mix of old purposeful clutter and handmades Furniture, Vintage Linens, Warm Glow Candles (USA made) & more!

It’s our 20 Anniversa th ry!

Multi Dealer Antique Shop

Primitives • Furniture • Artwork Smalls • Antique Accessories

14 East Main St. Earlville 315-691-5721

Tues-Fri: 9-4, Sat: 9-2, Closed Sun & Mon

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Wed-Sat: 10-4, Sun: 11-3 • (315) 264-1755

4803 Rt. 31, Vernon

All kinds of Unique Vendors under one roof!

Vendors Wanted

Artisans, Crafters, Antiques to Retro including Food Items.

Also home of

315-628-1506 www.renewedandrescued.com

142 North Main St., Herkimer • 315-219-9195

Open Tues-Fri: 10-4:30, Sat: 10-4, Closed Sun & Mon • www.mohawkvalleycommunitymarket.com

Celebrating 25 years in business!

Attic Addicts The Queen’s Closet

Pristine, Practical, and Priced Right!

Specializing in estate sales, large and small.

Consignment at its Finest!

Clothing, Jewelry Household Items, Furniture

Conducted with respect and dignity.

Call for a consultation: (315) 736-9160

Winter Hours: Tues-Fri 11pm-5pm, Sat 10:30am-3pm, Closed Sun & Mon New consignment by appt. only

22 Oriskany Blvd., Yorkville (315) 736-9160

Facebook: The Queens Closet & Attic Addicts

Little Little Falls Falls

Antique Center More than 50 vendors on 2 floors!

Antiques • Art • Crafts Open 6 days a week, 10-5, Closed Tues Handicapped-accessible • 315-823-4309 Thruway Exit 29A, 25 West Mill St., Little Falls www.littlefallsantiquecenter.com

We have great gifts for your Valentine!

Like us on Facebook!

17

Over 160 Vendor booths and display cases!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Find a Unique Treasure For Your Sweetheart!

100 E. Main St., Mohawk (Thruway Exit 30)

(315) 219-5044 www.mohawkantiquesmall.com

MOHAWK ANTIQUES MALL

MADISON INN ANTIQUES FURNITURE • TOOLS • BOOKS • COLLECTIBLES GLASS • PRIMITIVE

7417 State Route 20, Madison 315-893-7639 • Open Thursday-Sunday 10-5

coins

antiques

jewelry

THE POTTING SHED ANTIQUES

ALL U.S. COINS WANTED

Buying and Selling Coins, Large Selection of Jewelry (gold, silver, costume), and Antiques. Buying scheduled by appointment.

Thurs & Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4, Closed Sun-Wed • www.thepottingshedantiques.com

315-736-5214

Don Hartman, 52 Oriskany Blvd., Whitesboro (Next to Kinney’s)

Victorian Rose

Vintage, Antiques, Crafts & Collectibles January & February winter hours: Open Friday-Sunday: 10am-4pm

315-893-1786

3371 Maple Ave., Bouckville • www.victorianrosevintage.com 18

Mon, Wed-Sat: 10-5, Sun: 11:30-4:30 Closed Tuesdays

uuuuuuuuuuu u u u u u u u BUYING & SELLING Antiques, u u Mid-Century, and Vintage thru 1975 u u OPEN Every Day 11AM-4PM, Closed Wed. u u *5,000 sq.ft. Multi-Dealer Store u u *BEST Variety of UNIQUE Finds u *103 SHOWCASES u u *26 DISPLAY BOOTHS u u u *1,000’s of Affordable “Smalls” For Sale u u *Get on our Monthly CUSTOMER WANT LIST u u (315) 823-1177 u u 375 Canal Place, Little Falls u u Next Door to Ann Street Deli u u u uuuuuuuuuuu

showcase antiques E

Weeden’ s Mini Mall

Loaded with Antiques, Vintage, Collectibles, & many unique items! Over 40 years in business!

Over 100 shops under one roof!

8056 Route 13, Blossvale (Located 4 miles North of Sylvan Beach) (315) 245-0458 • Open 10-5 every day • www.weedensminimall.com

MV NATURE

FEBRUARY

BIRDSONG RETURNs story and photos by Matt Perry

The woods in February are very much alive, although much of that life is hidden from view. In winter, animal life retreats underground, into rock crevices and tree cavities, under bark, under leaf litter, in the mud beneath ponds, and in the ice-edged streams. Although many animals remain active through the winter months, most remain unseen by us. Even those that do not experience a form of hibernation or torpor may only emerge sparingly in daylight hours and may save their forays for the night. One class of animals we can expect to encounter regularly on any given day in February are the birds. Indeed, birds as a rule do not hibernate, but remain active by day and even on the coldest days when the landscape is bleak and foraging is a challenge.

In February, a captivating transformation unfolds among our overwintering bird species. The anticipation of the impending spring breeding season ignites a resurgence of their voices, marking the onset of territorial disputes. As the winter’s gray tones give way to longer days and the warming rays of a more present sun, the woods and suburban landscapes are graced with the melodic three-note whistled song of the Black-capped Chickadee. Simultaneously, Northern Cardinals momentarily break away from their foraging flocks, ascend to

treetop stages, and release vibrant and cheerful melodies. White-breasted Nuthatches are just as eager to join the chorus as the Cardinals and contribute their own celebratory notes to welcome the sun’s return. While their vocalizations may lack the musicality of their more flamboyant associates, their nasal and repetitive songs serve as unmistakable audio heralds of an advancing growing season. However, February also marks a shift in their social dynamics.

The Nuthatches, previously tolerant of their winter comrades, begin to feel the strains of the season. Personal rivalries emerge within flocks, leading to face-to-face confrontations between male Nuthatches. These encounters play out on the sides of tree trunks and across lateral branches, where flock mates, once harmonious, now engage in sizing each other up, pointing their bills down, and holding their tails up, each attempting to assert dominance. The camaraderie of the day before gives way to an undercurrent of tension as the avian community navigates territoriality in the cold February air.

Even the bird species that don’t remain in the region past winter begin to test their voices come February. The Tree Sparrow, adorned with a distinctive black breast spot and a vibrant chestnut cap, unveils his fa-

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Male Northern Cardinal miliar yet unfamiliar song from the brushy hedgerows. A quick jumble of thin whistles comprises the Tree Sparrow’s music. His impatient performance gives the impression of a bird in a hurry – hinting at an eagerness to return to his Canadian breeding grounds before his flock mates arrive and secure the most coveted territories. Sharing the hedge habitat are a bevy of Dark-eyed Juncos, who are also becoming increasingly vocal as the season provides a glimmer of transformation. As the season hints at change, these Juncos engage in spirited squabbles over small, bare patches of ground amidst an otherwise snow-covered landscape. The Junco’s song is a simple one – a barely melodious trill which may only be considered captivating to a select audience of other Juncos and perhaps to a few birdsong starved naturalists in the final throes of winter fatigue.

Winter’s somber study in whites and grays have the effect of upping the contrast on vividly plumaged birds and turning the color knob up to eleven. This is certainly true of the male Cardinal, whose ruby red outfit stands out like a brilliant jewel on a

Ron’s

Sharpening

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Mon-Fri 10-5 • 9454 Paris Hill, Sauquoit

Expert Scissor Sharpening Scissors-Fabric & Hair Clippers- Hair & Animal Knives- Kitchen & Hunting Joiner & Planer Blades Circular SawsCarbide & Steel Chain Saws and Drill Bits Hedge ClippersHand, Electric & Gas Lawn Mower Blades Lawn Tools 19

bleached backdrop. The same is true with the Blue Jays, that could be described as blue opals in an arctic desert.

Blue Jays, which also travel in family groups, usually of six to a dozen strong, are strangers to none in the countryside. Jays are not believers in stealthy entrances or departures, and some might disparage them as being the very embodiment of noise. I think they are slightly prone to vocalize more in late winter than earlier in the season, but such a thing is difficult to gauge. Their loud, piercing whistles, chortles, trills, squeaks, and hawk impersonations, at least to me, are wonderful to hear. When jays arrive at a feeding station, they clear the decks with a screech or an emphatically given hawk call. Upon hearing the call, smaller birds make desperate dashes away from the feeders – surrendering their rations to the blue marauders. Watching a Blue Jay at a feeder can be an interesting experience. They especially love peanuts and will pack as many as possible into their throat pouch (crop) and their bill and then fly away, presumably to store them. Jays are food cachers, and are known to store nuts, seeds, and acorns in a plethora of hiding places – all that will be remembered later by these clever members of the crow family.

If you find yourself becoming discouraged with the prospect of another several weeks of winter, seek out the ever-present birdlife. Let the Cardinals, sparrows, woodpeckers, and hawks convey you to a happier place of promise. And let the Blue Jays banish the winter blues. •

LIQUORS & WINES In-Store Specials for your Sweetheart!

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An Eastern Screech Owl sleeping by day

American Tree Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Black-capped Chickadee

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3 Main St., Whitesboro • EMAIL: mikesfloorstore@gmail.com

Personal, Business & Life Insurance Planning From a local company established in 1866

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20

Mohawk valley astronomical society

star sailors by carol higgins

We live in an era where robotic spacecraft and rovers are exploring other worlds in our solar system, and human spaceflight is commonplace. Rotating crews of highly skilled astronauts live and work in the International Space Station (ISS), a unique orbiting science laboratory in operation for over 23 years. The term “astronaut” is derived from two Greek words that together mean “star sailor.” This month, we take a look at NASA’s astronaut selection process and some astronauts born in New York State, including Dr. Jeanette Epps, who will launch to the ISS in February!

According to NASA, a total of 360 astronaut candidates have been selected since 1959, when our space program was in its infancy. The initial Mercury program selection criteria limited the applicants to military jet test pilots, age under 40, height under 5 feet 11 inches, bachelor’s degree, and excellent physical condition. The Gemini and Apollo programs had similar requirements, although a few civilians with special skills were accepted. NASA’s all-male astronaut corps continued until calls for diversity grew louder and the increased need for new astronauts for the upcoming space shuttle program became clear. The situation changed dramatically on January 16, 1978 when a new 35-member class was announced.

Selected from a pool of over 8,000 applicants, the group was notable: the first

SpaceX Crew-8: Alexander Grebenkin, Michael Barratt, Matthew Dominick, Jeanette Epps Image credit: NASA

to include three African-Americans (military test pilot, aerospace engineer, physicist), an Asian-American (aeroLouise Cleave was a veteran of two shuttle space engineer), and six women (physicist, missions and the first woman to serve as biochemist, electrical engineer, geologist, the Associate administrator for NASA’s two medical doctors). Physicist Sally Ride Science Mission Directorate. All four rebecame the first American woman to fly in tired after serving the space program for space. many years. The fifth is active astronaut This year marks 65 years of NASA’s Dr. Jeanette Epps! human spaceflight program. Of the astroEpps notESA, just an Galaxy activeZooastroHanny’s Voorwerp.Dr. Image Credit:isNASA, W. Keel, Team nauts selected so far, 29 were born in New naut; she is a member of the four-person York state. The majority flew on multiple SpaceX Crew-8 mission scheduled to space shuttle missions, although Buffalo’s launch mid-February for a six-month ISS physicist Edward Gibson was a member stay. Born and raised in Syracuse, her edof the Skylab 4 crew and spent 84 days in ucational background includes a Bachelor the early space station. Endicott’s engineer of Science in Physics, Master of Science and Marine Corps pilot Douglas Hurley is and Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering. Her a veteran of two shuttle missions and the impressive work career includes Technical first SpaceX Crew Dragon mission to the Specialist for Ford Motor Company where ISS. she was granted a patent, and over seven Five of New York’s astronauts are years as a Technical Intelligence Officer women. Engineer Nicole Stott from Alat the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) bany is a veteran of two space shuttle where she received several awards. missions and retired after 27 years with Follow Dr. Epps and her three crew NASA. Elmira’s USAF test pilot Colonel members – NASA’s Michael Barratt and Eileen Collins flew on four space shuttle Matthew Dominick, and Russia’s Alexmissions. She is the first woman to pilot ander Grebenkin – on their exciting ada space shuttle (STS-63 and STS-84) and venture and 6-month mission onboard the the first woman space shuttle Commander ISS. The NASA and SpaceX websites will (STS-93 and STS-114). Chemist and medprovide updates about the exact launch ical doctor Anna Lee Fisher from New date and time, along with live launch day York City was one of the six women in the coverage. GO Dr. Epps!

1978 astronaut class and flew on one shutWishing you clear skies! • tle mission. Southampton’s engineer Mary

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Dichroic glass necklace $21

Alteri’s wooden block $15

Art print of Alteri’s $37

Original art by Tim Pryputniewicz $75-$175

Auto trash bag $28

Let the Good Times Roll with affordable gifts made by local artisans!

Coaster $5

Hot/Cold comfort pillow $15

Glass cutting board $23

Wooden “always” sign $10

Sterling spiral necklace $65 Leopard satin infinity scarf $26

Bid on this basket of artisan-made treasures at the Tin of KAC Gala & Auction Feb. 10th! decorative magnets $10

KACelebration February 10, 7-10pm

Original painting by Gail Mosher $85

Whimsical birdhouse $50

Coasters $16

Open 7 days a week at 1 College St, Clinton

(315) 853-1453 Find us on Facebook: Artisans’ Corner of Clinton

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KACelebration Saturday, February 10, 7-10pm Music by Steve & Steve and Big Tasty & The Sass!

Hors d’oeuvres, drinks, silent auction, costume prizes, photo booth by Thrift“ish,” & Mardi Gras swag!

Let the Good $50 Times Roll! KirklandTickets Art Center

315-853-8871 kacny.org 9 ½ E. Park Row, Clinton

Thank you to our sponsors: Nye & Co. Auctioneers, Barbara Britt Hysell & Jon Hysell, Krizia Martin, Morgan Stanley, Nelson Associates, Strategic Financial Services, Big Apple Music, Saranac, Clinton Wine & Spirits

mv crossword

february Crossword Answers found in the pages of this magazine!

Across

3. Visit this farm and creamery in Rome for fresh milk, cheese curds, and beef.

6. Local city name for the capital of Italy.

8. It’s not Oneida Lake it’s ___ Oneida!

9. This Utica Music Series “Amplifies Community Pride” and is transforming Utica into a music-filled destination.

10. This Spring Farm Cares Nature Preserve resident beaver kit succumbed to a mysterious illness last year.

13. The word “astronaut” is derived from these two Greek words.

14. Judy’s partner in the maple syrup business. See page 9.

Down 1. “Blue opals” of our winter woodlands.

2. This local African American community leader was inducted into the Oneida County Historical Hall of Fame in 2023.

3. This Place on Route 5 in Clinton is famous for breakfast!

4. Sette in Rome, Italy is this in Rome, NY 5. It’s the KAC’s middle name!

7. Mohawk Valley Community Market in Herkimer now has a luncheonette named for the original department store.

11. You will be sure to clean this at 3 Down.

12. This local village was named German Flats, Morgan’s Landing, and Remington’s Corners before being named for ancient Troy.

Since 2010

MG Recoveries A local collection agency with a professional touch.

MVL Crossword Puzzler:

The month of February once had an Old English name derived from this vegetable.

Coincidentally (or not?) we celebrate this crucifer this month!

Unscramble the letters in the yellow boxes then email your answer to: mohawkvalleyliving@hotmail.com by the 18th of this month.

You’ll be entered to win an MVL Mug and a bag of delicious, fresh-roasted FoJo Beans coffee!

• children’s bookstore • reading tutoring • arts enrichment • literacy enrichment • birthday parties

Sign up for winter and spring break camps now!

Mark E. Griffing, M.D., Proprietor collectbymgrecoveries@gmail.com 1900 Genesee St. Suite 202, Utica, NY

Office: 315-624-9278 Cell: 315-679-3776 24

Mon: 10-2, Tues-Fri: 10-7, Sat: 10-4

(315) 765-6262 • 587 Main St., New York Mills

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MV history

English Teacher & Former Student “Make” History

®

Historian Ed Ayers wrote “all history is local…then regional, national, and international.” By this, he meant that an interplay exists between events on a local level—of which we are part—that can have an effect on events far beyond us. Those larger affairs have impacts on our daily lives.

Take World War II, for example. None of the fighting took place in Ilion, but through the weapons made here and the men who left the village to fight, Ilion was actively engaged in the conflict and the home front by its scrap drives, airplane spotting, blackouts, and rationing. Unfortunately, the study of history has often centered on the big picture, much to the exclusion of what occurred locally.

In recent years, Kevin Hall and Joe Collea—both Ilion natives—have been involved in shining a light on their hometown’s history through their writings. Kevin’s works are narratives written in an autobiographical nature about growing up in Ilion and the history of that time. Joe’s approach has been broader, chronicling people, places, and events in the village’s 300 year history.

An interesting sidebar to their contemporaneous writing is that Joe was Kevin’s history teacher over 50 years earlier! Their reconnection, after all that time, has been enjoyable and rewarding for both men. As Joe recently said, “Kevin’s accomplishments in life, not just as a writer but as a well-rounded individual, is what teachers hope for all of their students.” And as Kevin has stated, “When Joe and

Local authors Joe Collea and Kevin Hall have published books about their hometown of Ilion, NY

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www.polishfoodutica.com • Mon-Fri:9-5, Sat: 9-4:30, Sun Closed 29

I reconnected, my first reaction, as the one time student, was to call him Mr. Collea. For me, Joe was that type of teacher who educated and challenged the student to ask questions, and I was not bashful to ask. Through our reconnection Joe has inspired me to write.”

Writing did not come easy to Kevin, as English was one of his least favorite subjects in school. His passion for history came much later in life, motivated by his grandchildren’s desire to know more about their grandpa’s childhood in Ilion.

What happens next? Joe is working on his third volume in his Our Town—Ilion, New York series. Kevin’s next book, Signs – The Veil is Thinner Than We Imagine, is a deviation from Ilion history, still non-fiction and one with a spiritual and historical slant, it is titled: . Both titled works are due out this year.

The noted novelist Michael Crichton once wrote, “if you don’t know history, then you don’t know anything. You are like a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree.” Kevin and Joe subscribe to this outlook. Each in his own way has tried to encourage the people of Ilion to see value and take pride not only in the history of their village but also that of their own lives as well. •

Collea’s and Hall’s books are available on Amazon and at the Herkimer County Historical Society

Author Kevin Hall

Author Joe Collea

Author Kevin Hall’s works are narratives of an autobiographical nature while author Joseph Collea’s approach is broader, chronicling people, places, and events in Ilion’s history.

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LEONARDA PRIORE

In cooperation with the

Hometown/current town: NY City until 2021, Current: Utica, NY Instrument: Piano Age when began music: Age 10 at The Neighborhood Center Education: Graduated with honors from Thomas R. Proctor High School and Mohawk Valley Community College and over twenty years of private voice lessons with Utica’s own legendary operatic tenor, Pasquale Caputo Current position: President of Chelsea Opera Collaborations (current/past): Co-Founder and President of Chelsea Opera; Produced and performed in opera, numerous concerts, and avant-garde events in both Syracuse and Utica; She has appeared at Carnegie Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium, and the Vatican as a featured soloist; She continues to perform opera, jazz, sacred, classical, and popular genres with many companies and orchestras throughout the United States and Europe; Her operatic performances include many leading roles as well as leads in musical productions; She has performed professionally with many symphony orchestras including the Centre Symphony, 5 Towns Symphony, and the New Amsterdam Symphony; She is a long-time member of the B Sharp Musical Club in Utica as well as many other affiliations in Upstate and New York City and nationally.

Influences: Pasquale Caputo, teacher and mentor; Nancy Stokes Milnes, NYC teacher; Bill Doherty, Central Florida Lyric Opera

Music has been the most amazing gift in my life. It has deeply influenced and shaped every path that I have traveled and continues to direct where I am going and how I share my life in the world.

Upcoming Performancs Producer concert: “What the H*ll Is It?” February 10, 7pm Inspiration Hall, Syracuse, NY

Full Production Puccini

April 26, 7:30pm and April 27, 2pm The West End Theatre, New York City

Black History Month Jazz concert Wednesday, February 28 The Tasting Room at Epicuse 220 S. Salina Street, Syracuse, NY

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mv arts

Between Worlds: Stories of Artists and Migration

Priscilla looks over at us

by Cassandra Miller

Munson Museum of Art’s new exhibition, “Between Worlds: Stories of Artists and Migration,” explores the challenges of relocation and the optimism of new beginnings. The exhibition opens Feb. 15 and is on view through May 5.

Throughout history, artists have left their homelands, traveled to new places, and started their lives over. This exhibition showcases painters, photographers, printmakers, jewelers, sculptors, and textile artists whose art reflects their experiences and adjustment to new, unfamiliar surroundings. The artists included in “Between Worlds” address the challenge of upheaval and the hopefulness of new beginnings, connecting their past lives with present realities and expectations for the future through artistic expression.

“Between Worlds” features work by artists who have made a new home in the United States; artists whose African or Indigenous ancestors were enslaved or pushed away from their homelands; and more recently, those who experienced the Great Migration from South to North or across the country within the United States. Through art and stories as diverse as the people themselves, this exhibition presents new perspectives on the migration experience.

“There is a great variety of artists included in ‘Between Worlds,’ from so many different backgrounds, and they express their migration experiences through equally varied ways. The stories told through these artworks are universal, though. Epic paintings and intimate works on paper convey feelings of heartbreak, frustration, and aspiration through themes such as borders, boundaries, the land, and home,” said Mary Murray, Munson Museum of Art Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art.

K

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“Ashes to Ashes” Jonathan Kirk (British, born 1955), 2012 painted wood, 21 x 17 x 17 in., Munson

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“Between Worlds” is the third in a series of exhibitions created through a multi-year collaboration between the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; the Mattatuck Museum, Waterbury, Conn.; and the Munson Museum of Art, made possible by the generous support of the Art Bridges Foundation. Works from all three institutions are featured in the exhibition to reflect the long histories of immigration that these communities share as resettlement centers today.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Jonathan Kirk (British, born 1955), “Ashes to Ashes”, 2012, painted wood, 21 x 17 x 17 in., Munson Jonathan Kirk, unlike many of the artists represented in “Between Worlds,” has lived voluntarily in the United States since 1980, when he moved from England to earn his MFA. Kirk has a studio in Utica and is a staple of the regional art community. Kirk’s sculpture refers to the history of industry (and the industrial revolution), and this work, “Ashes to Ashes,” with its collapsing locomotive forms, speaks to the Empire and its discontents. Today, Kirk describes himself as neither fully British any longer and certainly not American, even after living here for more than 40 years.

Louise Bourgeois (American, born France, 19112010), “Spider II”, 1995, bronze, 22 ½ x 73 x 73 in., Munson Louise Bourgeois’s family operated a tapestry factory in France. As a young woman, she married art historian Robert Goldwater and moved to the United States on the brink of World War II. For the remainder of her life, Bourgeois felt she had abandoned her family – even later in her life, when her parents had passed away. The spider is her tribute to her mother, whom she admired profoundly.

Salvador Jiménez-Flores (American, born in Mexico, 1985), “La Jaula de Oro” (The Golden Cage), 2020, color screenprint, MFA Jiménez-Flores explains that “Inspired by Los Tigres del Norte’s song of the same name, I created this golden fence made of snakes that also hints at the anatomy of the American flag. The black represents the millions of people who live and work in the USA – many of whom are essential workers – yet remain in the shadows. The white is symbolic of the hope that is crucial for survival in the USA. The snakes suggest dangers many South American brothers and sisters have experienced in their journey. And, just when they think they have made it to the promised land, the snakes become the American nightmare. For many migrant families and asylum seekers, their first experience of the USA has been a cage in detention centers. The gold color represents some migrants who, after overcoming all those struggles and obstacles, have become economically and socially successful. In the end, even with a flashy golden cage—it is still a cage.”

Admission to the Museum is free. Special events related to the exhibition include the Members Preview Reception on Feb. 15, 5:30–7:30pm (Munson Membership required, $25); free gallery talk with Mary Murray, Munson Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 11am; a food tasting and multicultural event, “Food and Art Unite,” Sunday, March 10, noon–3pm ($25 admission, $10 children 12 and under, free under 2).

Munson, 310 Genesee St., Utica • munson.art Cassandra Miller is a writer, editor, publicist, and marketing professional based in Utica and Oneonta. Her writing has been published in The Washington Post, Baltimore Magazine, The Daily Star, and elsewhere. Her main areas of interest include arts and culture, entertainment, education, and tourism.

“Spider II” Louise Bourgeoi (American, born France, 1911-2010)

“La Jaula de Oro” (The Golden Cage) Salvador Jiménez-Flores (American, born in Mexico, 1985)

Chapel Hart

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National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine Tuesday, February 13, 7:30pm One of the finest symphony orchestras in Eastern Europe.

Tickets $20/$15 General/Senior

Tickets by phone or online

(315) 859-4331 www.hamilton.edu/performingarts

36

GALLERY GUIDE BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

february 2024

GALLERY GUIDE

The installation, Renaming the Constellations, by René Treviño. Meet the artist at the opening reception of René Treviño: Stab of Guilt, on February 17, 4-6pm at the Wellin Museum of Art, Hamilton College, Clinton

Fenimore Quilt Club Exhibition

Juliana Haliti, Solo Exhibition

February 3–February 18, 2024 The largest and longest running quilt shows in the region, displaying approximately 100 quilts and quilted items of all types.

Through March 24, 2024 Special workshop with Juliana Haliti: “Breaking Free From the Rectangle” Saturday, March 9, 1–2:30pm

Cooperstown Art Association

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4 Elements Studio

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Between Worlds: Stories of Artists and Migration

Co-operative Linda Bigness, Karen Burns, Deborah Dougherty Wester, and Leigh Yardley

February 17–May 5, 2024

Showcases powerful artwork that offers new perspectives on migration narratives

February 10–March 23, 2024 Artists Reception: Sat, Feb 17, 1–4pm

Munson

310 Genesee St., Utica, NY (315) 797-0000 munson.art

Kirkland Art Center 9½ E Park Row, Clinton, NY (315) 853-8871 • kacny.org

The Art of Craft Through March 23, 2024

Exhibit explores art forms rooted in practicality through design, innovation, and skill.

View

3273 Rt. 28, Old Forge, NY (315) 369-6411 • viewarts.org

René Treviño: Stab of Guilt

February 17–June 9, 2024, Reception: Sat., February 17, 4–6pm

Wellin Museum of Art

Hamilton College, 198 College Hill Rd., Clinton, NY • (315) 859-4396 • www..hamilton.edu/wellin

Having an art opening? Let us know for a free listing in our monthly guide! Email: mohawkvalleyliving@hotmail.com

Art Craft The

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NY artists exploring art forms rooted in practicality through innovative design and extraordinary skill

Pileated Woodpecker Carving by Jillian Post

GLYPH II Series Vessel

by Vartan Poghosian

Kay Desk

by Jonathan Sweet

Additional Exhibitions on Display: Common Threads Northern Lights

December 2-March 9 Showcasing the wonder and variety of light in art

Visit our cafe serving fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, realwww.peterscornucopia.net fruit smoothies and organic coffee!

December 2-March 9 Featuring fiber arts including weaving, knitting, felting, and stitching

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3273 State Rte. 28, Old Forge, NY 13420 | 315-369-6411

oneida county history center

Norman Hill Oneida County community leader

Norman Hill 1920s

by Rebecca McLain, OCHC Executive Director Norman Hill was the first African American real estate broker in the City of Utica and a community leader. Born and raised in segregated Eufaula, Alabama, he moved to Utica in the 1940s after serving his country in the US Air Force. He married Alberta Huff, his childhood sweetheart, and the couple had two daughters, Norma Jean and Lillian.

Norman was a renter for many years but aspired to purchase his own home for his family. He often worked two jobs to save enough money to achieve this goal. He eventually found a job as a police officer at Griffiss Air Force Base, which made it financially possible for him to purchase his first home at 1003 State Street.

Mr. Hill’s appreciation for home ownership motivated him to pursue a career as a real estate broker. He was keenly aware that owning a home was key to building self-esteem, instilling pride, and fostering the economic growth of the community at large. In his mid-60s, he took evening courses at Mohawk Valley Community College and Utica College.

He successfully passed the New York State Brokers exam in 1975 and opened his real estate firm, Norman Hill Real Estate, on the first floor of his State Street home.

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Mr. Hill established himself as a broker with honesty and integrity. Throughout his career, he guided families of all backgrounds, sometimes breaking down racial barriers, to purchase their first home in Utica.

Mr. Hill was also a firm believer in education and giving back to the community.

He co-founded the ALAGA Civic Club, which sought to encourage children in the Cornhill Community to stay in school, maintain excellent scholastic standards, and attend college. The club awarded scholarships, worked with the NAACP on voter registration, and hosted an annual free picnic for all children at the Leisure Time Center on West Street.

Mr. Hill served on many community boards, including the Cosmopolitan Community Center, Mid-Utica Neighborhood Preservation Center, Leisure Time Center, and Neighborhood Housing Services. He was an active member of the St. Paul’s Baptist Church, spending time as Sunday School superintendent and teacher, and as chairman of its board and several committees.

Norman Hill passed away on January 27, 2014. He was inducted into the Franklin J. Upthegrove Memorial Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Oneida County Historical Hall of Fame in 2023 in honor of his lasting legacy to the community. •

Oneida County History Center

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Shawangunk nature preserve, cold brook

TALES FROM

SHAWANGUNK “Remembering the winter of 1977”

by Peggy Spencer Behrendt

Tim hikes a 1/2 mile to start our truck in minus 40 degrees

41

am breathing. It makes my glasses steam up. I feel like I’m on a different planet.

We are fascinated by this mystical, musical experience and would like to immerse ourselves longer, but this concert venue is too cold for comfort! Our noses are going numb, and we regretfully retreat to our cottage.

[Later, I learned that these blasts are the result of the sudden and dramatic decrease in temperature. Sap has frozen in the tree trunks before descending gradually to the roots, where it would be protected from deep cold by the insulating earth. The rapid expansion of the sap as it freezes inside the trees causes wood fibers to rip apart in sudden explosions. For the brief time we were out, I felt like I could almost discern the size and kind of tree that was popping by the tone quality of its blast.

I also recently learned that this can also happen within the earth under the same conditions of sudden freezing and the stresses

We divided this cottage space in half for the winter

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generated by water rapidly expanding and transforming into ice. This may be called a Frost Quake, Ice Quake, or Cryoseism, and cause similar booming and thunder-like sounds, even tremors and vibrations. (see Cryoseism in Wikipedia)] I am happy to be back inside with our warm fire until Tim announces, “It’s so cold, we need to start up the truck in the middle of the night or we might never get it started again the next morning when we have to go to work.”

I am horrified!

“You’re telling me I have to get up in the middle of the night when it’s sub-zero, hike a half mile through the snow in a dark forest to the end of the road, and sit in a cold truck while it warms up? You are not serious!”

“Afraid so, Peg. If we’re going to get to work, we’ve got to do it. We can take turns.”

My turn comes at 2 am. I consider the option of divorce...but first, I would have to get the truck started anyway...so I grumpily hurry into layers of clothes and trudge wearily out the door with a dim flashlight. (They are always dim.) The tree are no longer exploding, and silence is supreme except for the crackly crunch of my feet crushing hard crystalized snow with every step. Once my

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Tim and Peg have their 50th Anniversary on February 14th

blood starts circulating and my cheeks aren’t freezing, I start to notice the brilliance of the stars twinkling from infinity. I’ve never seen so many! I feel like I am in a magical world of pale, bluish, white diamond carpets where I can see into eternity.

I finally reach Isaiah, cold and asleep in the wonderland. I turn on the key and press my left foot on the starter button. Isaiah is as grumpy about waking up as I had been but manages to rev up for me, and I am very grateful.

I return home invigorated, delighted with my visit to the silent mystery of a deep winter night, and newly aware that for every downside, there’s an upside, and for every upside, there’s a downside. The cottage isn’t much

warmer than it was outside, but my bed is warm, my partner is warm, I am content, and cancel the divorce decree.

Sometimes, we must do it twice in one night to make sure we can get to church early in the morning. It always begins with groans and complaints but transforms into an awe-inspiring journey through a magically mysterious wonderland.

On another deep, cold winter day, as early twilight began to drift our somnolent forest into hibernal night, we get unexpected visitors. A young couple we met last summer hike in through our half-a-mile snowbound road and want Tim to marry them. I’m not excited about seeing the groom again, as when we last spoke of our vision for self-sufficient gardening here, he made a discouraging pronouncement that in his “expert” opinion, we’d never succeed in growing vegetables here. We both wonder why they came to us and not to a Justice of the Peace who would have been easier to access. But they are prepared with a license, so we have a simple ceremony, some laughter, and a toast with champagne they brought.

“Where do you plan to spend your honeymoon?” I ask after a couple of hours. I am tired and hinting that it is time to leave since it is getting dark.

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“Um, we were hoping you’d let us spend the night here. We don’t have any extra money for a motel and it’s too far for us to get home tonight.”

“We’ll take the cushions off the couch and lay them on the floor. Peg will find some blankets.” Tim offered.

They are happy with that, and we climb to our warm loft above the wood stove. Tim is worried however that they could get hypothermia because the floor has almost no insulation, and they are right in front of big floor-to-ceiling windows.

The cottage gets colder and colder through the night until by dawn it is close to freezing inside, as usual. I wake to the soft sounds of our newlyweds discretely consummating their marriage. At first, I think, “How sweet!” Then I panic, “What if Tim wakes up suddenly and is alarmed about what he hears? Should I wake him myself and clue him in, or just wait and hope for the best?”

I wait. Wrong decision! He hears them, wakes with a jolt, and calls out in alarm and concern; “What’s wrong? Are you folks ok?”

“Yes, we’re ok, Tim,” the groom wearily replies, “We’re just making love.”

“Oh, so sorry!” he apologizes softly and with great embarrassment, retreating quickly back under our covers. “I was afraid one of you was suffering from hypothermia and you were trying to resuscitate or something.”

I giggle.

Fifty years have passed since Tim and I merged our lives on Valentine’s Day with simple pledges. Tim (the romantic) asked me to “be his Valentine.” Peg (the realist) promised to love and hate him. Anyway, it seems amazing that so much time has passed, and we are still best friends and lovers. We always ask people with golden wedding anniversaries and beyond how they’ve managed to stay together. Some advice has been useful, and some not. One wife replied sardonically, “Medication.”

Our big saver has been the willingness to hold formal meetings, or at least be willing to discuss options for a solution when one of us has a gripe. Of course, some time must be spent on ventilation, but even while doing so we have parameters.

We try not to bring in comparisons with relatives or old grudges that will further inflame the situation. Deal with one issue

at a time, and don’t let old ones fester. I’ve learned to carefully evaluate if something I’m displeased about is worth creating a fuss because it stresses our relationship and makes us both feel bad. Some arguments have dissipated simply because we were too tired to pursue them.

Problem-solving, compromise, forgiveness, and good manners are all essential elements with one’s significant other as it is with family, at work, and with the public. The reward is warm companionship, shared memories and experiences, support for difficult times, and some wind beneath your wings so you can pursue your interests and have a fun and meaningful life. Jodi Picoult in My Sister’s Keeper wrote, “You don’t love someone because they’re perfect!” •

The Shawangunk Nature Preserve is a deep ecology, forever wild, 501©(3), learning and cultural center. Tim and Peggy still live there and can be contacted through their website.

www.shawangunknaturepreserve.com

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