Mohawk Valley Express Volume 3 Number 7 July 2023

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VOLUME 3: NUMBER 7

JULY 2023

Marchell Giorgi Scarano, Her Story of Wellness, Incredible Resilience and Inspiration

By Denise Louise Gregorka

Anyone who has lived in Little Falls for a short while has most likely crossed paths with or has heard of Marchell Scarano, owner of ‘Yoga and Wellness.’ She has been a fixture in the community as a wellness instructor for decades and has committed her life to keeping people

healthy.

went to Jefferson St. School. She grew up Little did she know that with dancing lessons, in one life-changing including ballet, jazz, and moment, everything she tap dancing. had ever taught would become necessary tools She went to college in a huge personal hurdle. for ‘Probation Parole for Juveniles’ to follow Marchell was born and the family tradition raised in Little Falls. of law enforcement.

For the most part of her Unfortunately, in the childhood, she lived on 1970s, women were not the south side, and she as accepted into those

Photo by Dave Warner - Marchell in her studio after leading her morning yoga class.

kinds of positions, and She remembers, “My first she was not able to find training in exercise came work in that field. from Jack LaLanne.

During my college years, The Early Exercise I was able to train with Years him during a summer Please See WELLNESS Page 2

said they have been coming to this market for about five years. “It’s very steady and busy.

We’ve gotten to know the other vendors and the customers who come each week. It’s a nice family atmosphere.”

Dolgeville Farmer’s Market in Full Swing Dolgeville holds its weekly Farmer’s Market sponsored by Dolgeville Saturdays from 9 am Forward at Plowe Park. It to 1 pm, the Village of was a rainy morning when Story and photos by Carol Vogel

I visited the market, but the vendors and visitors were not discouraged.

Amanda from K&A Coral

while stocking up on fresh and healthy locallygrown products for the week.

There are also lots of great snacks and food available each week.

While I was at the market, there were great options Local vendors offer such as sausage, egg, organic produce, farm- and cheese breakfast raised meats and eggs, sandwiches, fruit and homemade wares, yogurt parfaits, pulled flowers, plants, and pork sandwiches with unique gifts. The market is coleslaw, and cold drinks. a chance to support local farmers and businesses Please See MARKET Page 7

BILL MACRI

ASSOCIATE BROKER C: 315.360.1920 O: 315.866.2209 bill.joemacrirealty@gmail.com joemacrirealty.com

235 S. Main St. Herkimer, NY 13350 W W W . M O H A W K V A L L E Y E X P R E S S . C O M

M O H A W K

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V A L L E Y JULY 2023

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WELLNESS From Page 1 program.”

After college, because she could not pursue her chosen profession, she took a part-time job managing a women’s gym in Herkimer, which was the only one in the area. She stayed in that position for one year and was eventually recruited by the owners of a new gym in Little Falls.

Around 1975, after running that gym, Marchell states, “I decided I wanted to do an exercise class for women because there was no such thing.

Women were coming to the gym, but they needed more than the rollers, the belts, and the old-

fashioned machines.”

She approached Mr. Truman, the YMCA director in Little Falls, and he agreed to give her a small room in the Y’s basement. It was a modest start.

The following year, Tony Deluca became the new YMCA director and helped to make her room more accommodating.

After a couple of years, the class had outgrown its space, and they moved to the Y’s gym for one hour each week.

Marchell remembers, “By the time we got into the 80s, we were in the gym two nights, and those classes were up to almost eighty to ninety

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people. The gym was packed because it was popular. Jane Fonda had come in, and it was more acceptable. We had it all...the leg warmers, the headbands...everything.”

She was teaching separate classes, including high impact, low impact, flexilence, & weights.

Photo submitted - 1987, Marchell leading her class in the First Canal Days Parade in Little Falls.

and strong in a safe As time went on, Marchell atmosphere. I have never stopped learning. There sought to find gyms in is always something else different, large cities as to learn.” she traveled with her husband for his work.

She taught weight training She wanted to see what at Herkimer College as they were doing. well.

“During those years, there was no training to go learn how to teach Pound. There wasn’t that kind of thing, especially for women. So you had to look. I brought back step aerobics classes.

My dad made the steps.

At the peak of my time there, I had two classes on four nights and one on Saturday morning.”

Yoga

she could learn. “There was no online learning, no YouTube.”

She started to learn yoga and eventually would slowly introduce the stretches and poses to her classes. In 1996 she became certified and started yoga classes.

When Marchell approached her fortieth birthday, she started feeling that the excessive hours of teaching were taking a toll on her body.

“I’ve learned the different styles, but I still come back to Hatha Yoga which is the yin & yang, the balance, and was the beginning of all of the other styles of yoga. I “I was teaching a lot and am a Hatha Yoga teacher doing a lot. That was with flavorings of many more than the average other teachings.” person should actually do, so I started to feel She went from teaching The women appreciated some of the side effects. on Furnace St. to the having a place to go It was too much.” basement of the Co-Op and learning how to be and also brought classes healthy. Marchell states, She started looking at to Herkimer College.

“I always wanted it to be yoga practices. Since She has taught yoga all something I enjoyed, and there were no yoga over the area, including I wanted them to enjoy. I classes in the area, she YMCAs in various wanted them to feel good went searching in Albany surrounding cities. about what they were and Syracuse to see what During all of those years doing and be healthy was out there and what of teaching, she held a full-time job.

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Marchell decided that she wanted to own her own business, which she could run her way on her schedule. She set her sights on her present location at 27 West Main St. in Little Falls, where she has most of her classes but takes opportunities to teach Please See WELLNESS Page 5

M O H A W K

V A L L E Y JULY 2023

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Plans for Quackenbush building in Herkimer show signs of life

By Dave Warner

Scott Flansburg’s plans for the Quackenbush property and the origins of basketball took a step forward this June by clearing approximately 30,000 square feet of the four-parcel area in Herkimer.

The location was first built in 1873 and extended in 1890.

Flansburg acquired the property and created the Herkimer 9 Foundation to revitalize the area back to how it was in 1891 and restore the buildings surrounding the historic four corners.

They’re also focused on proving that basketball was invented in Herkimer, with the first game being played on February 7, 1891.

According to the book ‘I Grew Up with Basketball’ written by Frank J. Basloe, ‘The Herkimer 9’ was the name of the first basketball team from the Herkimer YMCA. Lambert Will was the first coach/player and was recognized in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his contribution of early innovations to the game.

That first game was between the Herkimer YMCA 9 and the Businessmen 9, and

the second game was on February 21, 1891, between a combined Herkimer 9 team and the Little Falls 9.

have a picture of the first team, and his kid is in that picture, so that’s why the Quackenbush factory is where we had to start.

We have that same team in ‘92 and ‘93 with the same kids growing up, and you can see it.”

“The County was going to tear the building down, and I just didn’t feel like that was the smartest move with the historic Some of the smaller addnature of that building,” on buildings will probably stated Flansburg. have to come down, but plans are for the main The building was recently building to become listed on the National a STEAM (Science, Historic Registry to Technology, Engineering, protect the Quackenbush Arts & Math) learning legacy. “He had all these center. “We’re starving in inventions, including the this area for programs like nutcracker, but built all that. What better building the machines that built all to put it in than where a those inventions in this guy had 50 patents?” factory.”

Flansburg said they The factory also was had to do something to used during the World show the community that War to create bullet the project was moving cores, shell casings, and forward, so they decided other screw machine to complete Phase products used in the war I to show they were effort. Quackenbush, in serious about making a his early life, worked at difference.

Remington Arms and ended up making the “That 30,000 square feet .22 caliber rimfire rifle, of concrete, metal scrap various air rifles, and buildings, and everything pistols, ammunition for people see from Main airguns, including lead air Street towards these rifle shot (known as BBs), beautiful buildings in the and felted slugs. “All background. We’re going these things first came to make that a beautiful out of the Quackenbush green space in the factory.” middle of Main Street and celebrate and honor the Flansburg is convinced factory that had so much and has evidence to prove impact in the community,” that basketball started at he said. the same location. “We

The famous Quackenbush factory in Herkimer, New York.

Flansburg said they had to do something to show the community that the project was moving forward, so they decided to complete Phase I to show they were serious about making a difference.

He says it will take them through July to complete the green space area, and they hope to begin the remediation phase on the building in September.

After this, plans are to begin remediation, which should take about six months. “It will cost almost a half million dollars,

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M O H A W K

V A L L E Y JULY 2023

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - JULY City of Little Falls July 4, 2023 Common Council Meeting - Auditing of the bills: 6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting: 7:00 p.m.

July 10, 2023 Police and Fire Board Meeting - Bills 8:30 am and Regular Session 9:00 am in the Mayor’s Conference room in City Hall.

July 12, 2023 Urban Renewal Agency Meeting - 8:15 am in the Mayor’s conference room at City Hall.

July 13, 2023 Tourism Committee Meeting 8:30 am in the Mayor’s Conference room in City Hall.

July 13, 2023

Harbor Commission to attend.

Meeting 9:00 am in the Mayor’s Conference July 27, 2023 room in City Hall. $1,000 monthly raffle drawing at 9pm at LF July 18, 2023 Lodge. Only 200 tickets Zoning Board of Appeals sold, @$10 each. Age 21 Meeting - 6:30 pm in & over only. the Mayor’s Conference room in City Hall.

Dolgeville

Market - 9 AM - 1 PM, in July during the Plowe Park.

Community Band Nights July 19, 2023 at Dolgeville Plowe Park.

Public open house for NY Salisbury Forward award 4-8 pm, Southern Girl Diner 83 Salisbury Historical North Main St. Society Open every Sunday 1pm-3pm July 20, 2023 Dolgeville Forward July Truck and ATV Sand July 19, 2023 July 1, 2023 Blueberry Fest Meeting Drags - 2 Day Event at: Golf Commission Dolgeville Farmers’ - 6:30 PM - George Ward Meeting - 8:00 am at the Market - 9 AM - 1 PM, Library.

The Salisbury Little Falls Municipal Golf Plowe Park.

Ridgerunners Where Old Course.

July 22, 2023 July 6, 2023 Dolgeville Farmers’ Friends Meet Dolgeville Forward Market - 9 AM - 1 PM, Monthly Meeting - 6:30 Plowe Park.

July 7, 2023 PM - George Ward Live Music at LF Elks Library.

July 29, 2023 Lodge 7-10pm, featuring Dolgeville Farmers’ Charlie Sherman. Free July 8, 2023 Market - 9 AM - 1 PM, admission. Age 21 & Dolgeville Farmers’ Plowe Park over only.

Market - 9 AM - 1 PM, Plowe Park.

The Dolgeville Violet July 11, 2023 Festival will be selling Lodge meeting 7pm. All July 15, 2023 ice cream as a fundraiser members are encouraged Dolgeville Farmers’ every Thursday night Little Falls Elks

July 29, 2023 - Trucks race on Saturday ATVs race on Sunday July 30, 2023.

If you would like to see your story or event in the Mohawk Valley Express - email it to news@ mohawkvalleyexpress.com

LITTLE FALLS PUBLIC LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM CALENDAR JULY-AUGUST MON 3

TUE 4

THU

WED 5

7

13Young Readers Club

14

Tie Dye SRP Launch Party All ages, 2:30pm

Laurie's Make & Take 3:30-5:30

10 Adult Movie Night Ocean's 8 @ 5pm

17 Minute to Win it Family Game Night 5:30pm

24

11

Connected Toddler Time 12 Community Schools 10am&11:15 (school age) 1-3pm Lego Club (7-10 yrs) Bead Class (ages 9-12) 2pm 2:30pm Paint Party 4:15pm

Teen Advisory Board 10:30am 4:15pm Jared Campbell Concert (all ages) 2pm |________________________Teen En Plein Air Art Workshop, 9am-12pm____________________| Toddler Time Connected 18 19 20 Young Readers Club 21 10am&11:15 Community Schools 10:30am Lego Club (7-10 yrs) (school age) 1-3pm Teen Art Night: Harry 2:30pm Science w/ Sherry Potter Theme 5:30pm Kids Movie: Home Picnic with Buddies (6-10 years) 1:30pm 12pm 10:30am

25

Connected Community Schools (school age) 1-3pm

26

Toddler Time 10am&11:15 Lego Club (7-10 yrs) Paint with Me (birth 2:30pm to 5 and their All Day Scavenger adults) 10:30am Hunt (all ages) Connected Toddler Time 31 1 Community Schools 2 10am&11:15 Utica Zoo Mobile 1pm (school age) 1-3pm all ages Lego Club (7-10 yrs) Little Librarians Club 10am2:30pm 12pm (7 years &+) Book Club 5:30pm

FRI

6

27 Young Readers Club 10:30am

28

Adult wine bottle painting (18+) 1pm & 5:30pm

3

Young Readers Club 4 End of SRP 10:30am Utica Zoo Mobile 1pm Celebration 1-3pm all ages Little Librarians Club 10am12pm (7 years &+)

M O H A W K

V A L L E Y JULY 2023

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WELLNESS From Page 2 outside in Rotary Park or on the rooftop of the Rock City building.

Life Interrupted Her resume is very impressive, and the story could end here, but there is much more to tell you.

As Marchell was driving on a Sunday morning in January of 2021, a pickup truck crossed into her lane and hit her head on.

In her words, “I clenched and moved back in my seat. When I opened my eyes, all of the airbags went off. It turned my car completely around, and I ended up facing in the opposite direction. I knew part of the car was not there. I thought I wanted to get out, but I couldn’t get out. I was broken.

Those first seconds, I didn’t know...but the pain rushed right in.”

time when things happen.

In a short time, I was sent to Upstate Medical in Syracuse and was in an ICU unit.”

Page 5

the bones. They did a phenomenal job of putting my arm back together.”

“I was in the hospital for five weeks, and no one was able to come “God bless those two because of Covid. When Little Falls Firemen.

I was there, one of the They were perfect that “My right knee had hit the therapists actually had day. They asked me the console, and it splintered me do chair yoga, sitting right questions, and they my femur and my tibia. in the wheelchair. She listened. I was directing They did two surgeries said, ‘Teach me what I them to hold this, hold that on the leg, one of which can do with other people.’ as they moved me. They was 10 hours. Part of my That got me thinking that were compassionate and tibia bone was powdered, I can do this.” gentle. “God was with me so they had to rebuild that morning, and I know that bone. My right leg “I went home in a that,” she stated. has metal bars that will wheelchair. It took a be with me forever. There couple of months before “I was moved to St. are bars, wiring, and I was able to start using a Elizabeth’s Hospital and screws,” Marchell said. walker. PT at Kress was was in a lot of pain. I very helpful. I started to actually remembered to “The radius and ulna crochet and wash dishes use my yoga breathing to on my left wrist came to get my hand working. relax because if you can into my palm, and both Then I went to knitting, relax, the pain would be broke off, so my hand which was also good less. Part of everything was pretty much broken therapy.” we do, the way we take off underneath the skin.” care of ourselves, our They did two different “The leg took a long time nutrition, yoga, whatever surgeries on the arm to recover. After a while, I it is, affects our recovery resulting in two plates on was using the walker and

Photo submitted - Marchelle working out on her 40th birthday.

had to make a decision whether I would re-open my studio. My family and friends encouraged me to go back.

Coming Back The first time I came back, I walked in with a Please See WELLNESS Page 6

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WELLNESS From Page 5 walker and said, ‘Either they will come, or they won’t come.’ I had a chair in the corner. They started coming back, and I taught. That encouraged me to work harder at therapy. I went from the walker to a cane and was able to stand and teach.”

“And here we are. I teach eight classes a week and am trying to get back to teaching at the college as well. I am still looking forward to being able to do more. I will do this as long as I can until people stop coming, and then I will be all by myself doing it on my own. I have learned to be a better

teacher of yoga. I have learned to have more compassion for people that have injuries. I love what I do, I love people.”

Inspiration Marchell is an inspiration for anyone who wants to be fit or may be overcoming any kind of physical challenge.

If you would like to learn more about Yoga and Wellness, you can find her at https://www.facebook. com/yogawellnessforall, or you can reach her at marchellray@hotmail. com (315) 868-1907.

Marchell’s current Yoga studio

Yoga at Rotary Park (left) & leading the Canal Celebration parade in 1987 (right).

SENIOR MEALS FOR JULY To reserve a meal, call the Herkimer County Office for the Aging at least one business day in advance, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 315-867-1204 or 315-867-1634. If you will not be home for meals, call 315867-1204 at least a day in advance. All sites are handicapped accessible.

Jul 03 - Ham and cheese pasta salad, cottage cheese, three-bean salad, watermelon.

Jul 04 - Happy Fourth of July!

Jul 05 - Chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes, broccoli, pudding.

Jul 06 - Macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes and zucchini, green beans, fresh fruit.

Jul 07 - Lasagna, tossed salad, Italian blend vegetables, garlic roll, sugar cookie.

Jul 10 - BBQ chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, peanut butter cookie.

Jul 11 - Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, spinach, pudding parfait.

Jul 12 - Turkey dinner with gravy, stuffing, corn, peaches.

Jul 13 - Ham with plum sauce, scalloped potatoes, green beans, pie.

Jul 14 - Seafood salad cold plate, potato salad, carrot raisin salad, frosted birthday cake.

Jul 17 - Salisbury steak with gravy, rice pilaf, squash, berries in a cloud.

Jul 18 - Baked chicken with mushroom gravy, stuffing, country blend vegetables, pineapple.

Jul 19 - Tuna salad cold plate, macaroni salad, marinated beets, sherbet.

Jul 20 - Frittata, sausage patty, hash browns, muffin, fruit cup.

Jul 21 - Yankee pot roast, boiled potatoes, carrots, chocolate chip cookie.

Jul 24 - Chicken broccoli alfredo over pasta, cupcake with topping.

Jul 25 - Roast beef cold plate, coleslaw, three-bean salad, pears.

Jul 26 - Ziti with meatballs, tossed salad, garlic bread, apple crisp.

Jul 27 - Hamburger, cucumber red onion salad, potato salad, ice cream.

Jul 28 - Pulled pork, au gratin potatoes, broccoli, cantaloupe.

Jul 31 - Turkey cold plate, pasta salad, corn salad, ice cream.

All meals are served with 8 ounces of milk, a slice of bread, and margarine.

Desserts have no concentrated sweets. The suggested donation is $3. Mail donations to Herkimer County OFA, 109 Mary St., Suite 2501, Herkimer, NY 13350. Envelopes are available from drivers.

LIFE From Page 3 there for decades. Then we can begin renovating those buildings to make them viable for tenants,” Flansburg stated.

He says it will take them through July to complete the green space area, and they hope to begin the remediation phase on the building in September.

They have talked about what the green space should be - everything from grass and benches, but they’re just going to seed it for now. “We really want to protect that space at first to grow in the grass and give it a chance to fill in.”

been credited with the first backboard, rim, and net. Lambert Will was using a bushel basket that kept shredding during the games. So, they took it to the local blacksmith to have him reinforce the top of the basket with a metal band.”

They realized they didn’t need the basket once they brought it back, but his mother made a net for it. “She’s the Betsy Ross of basketball,” Flansburg said. “That’s why we want to honor the story on the block that it happened.”

The group also wants to turn the courthouse into a hall of fame or In the future, they’re museum displaying all looking at everything the evidence they’ve from a basketball court put together to prove to a stage for concerts basketball was invented and community events. in Herkimer. “We want to “We’ve also discussed put it on public display so putting the biggest people can go through it basketball in the world in at their leisure.” that spot. That’s where it happened,” he stated.

Flansburg says they also He said, “Herkimer has

Please See LIFE Page 9

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MARKET From Page 1 You can find activities for your little ones, such as pedal tractor rides and a coloring station. The kid’s activities change each week, but there is always something for everyone at the Dolgeville Farmer’s Market.

Left to Right: New Vendor Wyndfield Acres booth, Fresh Flower Bouquets, Historic Hoffman Farm

While each week brings new seasonal produce Jams & Jellies. and items, a core group of vendors makes up this charming Farmer’s Market in the middle of town. The infused Carolina Reaper products are varied and fresh, so you are sure to fill salts, new jam and jelly your shopping bags with plenty of great market finds. flavors include strawberry rhubarb, cranberry pear, Keep up with what’s new at the market each week by olde fashioned plum, emailing Coleen at winterfarmersmarketdolgeville@ apricot habanero, and gmail.com to be added to the weekly newsletter. You basil banana pepper. can also follow Dolgeville Forward on Facebook for Saturday morning updates on the market: https:// J&R BAKERY - located www.facebook.com/people/Dolgeville-Forward- just two miles outside Inc/100064641254401/ of Dolgeville, makes white and wheat bread The following booth descriptions come from the homemade from scratch.

Farmer’s Market Newsletter to give you an idea of the Also, whoopee pies, variety of goods the market provides. New vendors oatmeal raisin, chocolate, are welcome and join each week, and the market and pumpkin. Plus, continues to grow! several types of cookies.

classic handcrafted grapevine baskets, wreaths, and unique found form art creations, including a giant size praying mantis ready to be hung on a tree or wall.

themed basket raffle will also be held and will serve as a fundraiser to benefit Dolgeville Forward and its efforts to elevate the quality of life in the village.

Summer Event

Dolgeville Forward is looking for local vendors Dolgeville Forward will and artisans to participate host a “Blueberries, in this event.

Blues and BBQ” event on Saturday, August 5th, “We’re looking to spotlight 2023, at Plowe Park from local artisans, goods, 9 am-4 pm. and services,” says Chris Reynolds of Dolgeville The Farmer’s Market will Forward.

K & A CORRAL - ground Beef, chicken, eggs, JONES FAMILY FARM be on as usual from 9 homemade lemon bars, strawberry, cherry, and - hand crafted artisan am - 1 pm with a Chicken “We are not charging strawberry rhubarb pies, and of course, Aunt Peg’s cheese including white BBQ and Blueberry Ice anything for a booth. We Shortbread. cheddar, cream cheese, Cream Social in the are here to promote the feta, and soft flavored afternoon. village.” If you would like STOLZFUS FAMILY FARM - chemical-free goat cheese. vegetables, including onions, asparagus, garlic There will also be music, to have a booth at this scapes, peas, chard, and potted vegetable plants.

Artists in Residence and local businesses event, please contact and restaurants will have Dolgeville Forward at HISTORIC HOFFMAN FARM - infused herb and Richard and Leah have

Pohlig’s

HOME FURNISHINGS ESTABLISHED 1888

Paint & Paint Sundries Flooring & Ceramic Tiles Window Shades & Treatments Mattresses Wallpaper & Borders

634-636 E. Main Street P.O. Box 93 Little Falls, NY 13365

P. (315) 823-2640 F. (315) 823-2641

Robert Pohlig OWNER

specials for the day. A

Please See MARKET Page 8

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MARKET From Page 7 dolgevilleforward@

Dolgevillle Forward

gmail.com.

Their

mission

states:

“Dolgeville Forward, Inc. is a registered 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization of volunteers committed to improving life for the residents of the Village of Dolgeville and its surrounding areas.” With eight subcommittees, all the projects and events are funded through donations, fundraising, and grants.

Little Falls Cheese Festival looks to make history (again)

LITTLE FALLS, NY – The Little Falls Cheese Membership is open to Festival committee has the public, and everyone announced the date for is welcome to join. With the city’s eighth annual a community pavilion Cheese Festival, which project in the works as will be held Saturday, well as other helpful October 7, 2023. Planning resources for residents is well underway for such as the Fun and another festival filled with Fitness Area, The C.A.T. New York cheesemakers, Project, and Village gourmet foods, craft Beautification initiatives, beverages, and more on Main Street from 10 a.m. volunteers and members to 5 p.m. are always needed.

Farmers Market Coupons Coupons can be used to purchase fruits and vegetables at any participating Farmer’s Market.

YOU QUALIFY IF you ar e at least 60 year s of age AND have a monthly income at or below: $2,248 for a one-person household, $3,041 for a two-person household, $3,833 for a three -person household, or are at least 60 years of age and currently receiving or eligible to receive SSI, food stamps, public assistance, or Section 8 housing subsidy. Each eligible older adult living in a household may receive their own booklet, but they must be present to sign for them. If an older adult is unable to pick up the coupons in person, a proxy or power of attorney may sign instead. Coupons will be distributed at the following centers on a first come, first served basis. You can pick up coupons at any of these sites. Please see the instructions following the distribution locations.

Mon. July 10

2023 Distribution Centers 9am-Noon: London Towers, 100 W. Main St., Ilion 1:00-3:30 pm: Prindle Apartments, 80 E. North St., Ilion

Tues. July 11

9am-11:30am: Galinsky Apartments, 105 Protection Ave. Herkimer 1pm-3:30pm Valley View Courts, 760 E. Monroe St. Little Falls

Wed. July 12

1pm-3:30pm: Stoneridge Gems (formerly Midtown Apartments) 315 N. Prospect St. Herkimer

Thurs July 13

9am-11am: Litchfield Manor, 402 S. Litchfield St., Frankfort 1pm-3pm: Greenwood Terrace, 1 Greenwood Terrace, Mohawk

Fri. July 14

9:00-11:00am: Parkside Courts 53 S. Main St., Dolgeville 1:30-3:00pm Rockton Plaza, 550 E. John St. Little Falls

Mon. July 17

9:00am-11:00am Scott House , 56 South St. West Winfield 1:30-3:00pm Willoughby Hall, 3041 Hillside Meadows Dr, Newport

Tues. July 18

10:00am-11:30am Schuyler Firehouse, 120 Newport Rd. Utica

Fri, July 21

10am-Noon: Lakeside Terr. Apts., 110 South Shore Rd, Old Forge 1pm-3pm: Old Forge Farmers Market, Park Ave , Old Forge

Ofadocs/publisher files/farmermarketcoupons/FMarket2023flyer

“We’ve made history every year with the attendance of our festival, and we are so grateful for all the enthusiastic support,” said Teri Chace of the Little Falls Cheese Festival committee.

“So this year, we’re looking to pay tribute to our city’s roots in the cheese industry. And, of course, we’ll feature more fantastic New York beverages, goodies, and cheeses!”

The festival will feature various New York State farm-produced cheeses, from hard cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, and

Havarti to soft cheeses, goat cheeses, cheese curds, yogurts, and more. Numerous New York-based gourmet food and craft beverage vendors will also be on hand to complement the cheeses. Also returning this year are showcases for local entertainment and musical acts all along Main Street, the Food Truck Food Court, and a free, cheese-themed play. Shuttle busses are returning as well for ease of parking, this time with additional shuttles to reduce the wait to get to the festival.

The Little Falls Cheese Festival is New York State’s premier gathering of cheesemakers, with an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 people in attendance last year. Keep up to date with planning and vendor announcements by following the Little Falls Cheese Festival on Facebook and Instagram or by visiting littlefallscheesefestival. com.

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LIFE From Page 5 have a letter of intent from the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame to move from Albany to Herkimer. “It’s been in Albany almost 20 years.”

He owns the Herkimer Originals ABA Basketball Team and says that the ABA is also willing to put their hall of fame in Herkimer.

Things seem to be speeding up for the project, with Lambert Will now being considered for entry into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.

“He’s being voted on to be put in the hall of fame.

They will have to answer, ‘Why was he nominated, and what did he do?’ And then our story fills that.”

The gentlemen who wrote the book NaisMYTH: Basketball’s Stolen Legacy are also considering moving to the area to curate the collection of historical items proving Lambert Will invented basketball in Herkimer.

“So people in the Village of Herkimer and

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everywhere around can stop, walk in, and in just a matter of a couple of thousand square feet have a whole new picture on what really happened,” Flansburg said.

“I think that will make a statement that says, He also said they are ‘Wow, we haven’t heard trying to attract a manufacturing museum the whole story.’” to the location. “There’s Assembly Resolution an association for Central No. 1052 is now in front New York Manufacturing of the New York State we’ve been talking to.”

Legislature, “Recognizing Herkimer, New York, According to Flansburg, invented in as the birthplace of Things Central New York could Basketball, Lambert Will as the game’s inventor, be housed in the museum and the Mohawk Valley section. as the game’s principal interesting influence in the game’s Another initial adoption.” fact they’ve dug up is, A s s e m b l y m e m b e r “Thomas Edison lit up Robert Smullen (R), Main Street Herkimer in A s s e m b l y m e m b e r 1891, the same week M a r i a n n e basketball was invented.

Buttenschon (D), and He was testing it to take Assemblymember Brian to the 1893 Worlds Fair Miller (R) have sponsored in Chicago but used the bill, which is now in Herkimer’s Main Street front of the State Senate. as the test location.”

Flansburg said that H. M. Quackenbush, Lambert Will, and Frank J. Baslow are all buried within one hundred

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yards of each other in the Oak Hill Cemetary in Herkimer. He also said the Quackenbush factory was the first steam-powered plant.

“Turning it into a STEAM learning center is pretty interesting.”

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A rendering of the Quackenbush building with the green space behind it with a large basketball and museum building.

The green space area looking towards the Quackenbush building.

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Frisbie House Summer Exhibit: Salisbury Loggers Story and photos by Carol Vogel

This year, the Salisbury Historical Society’s summer exhibit will present “Salisbury Loggers,” featuring local loggers from the past and present. The Logging industry in Salisbury is an important part of the community’s history, and it continues to be an important part of the area today. Deeply rooted, most area residents have family that were or are currently involved in logging. This exhibit showcases the community and culture that was built around this industry and how it affected commerce and the local economy through the years.

natural resources. Mills tapped into the power of the local waterways and opened opportunities for jobs and a connection with other communities via transportation routes such as the Erie Canal and the railroad network.

The strength and fortitude of the families involved is apparent, as the life of a lumberjack was difficult and dangerous.

because it’s a living tradition. We had two of the family loggers here at the opening last weekend, both in their late 70s and 80s – one of which is still working. One had their five grandchildren here looking at photos of Grandpa that were on display.” Kevin explained.

Part of the Logging Exhibit

speaking with residents as well as researching The community online for news articles. connections in this He also speaks of the industry are wide- community focus of the With the help of historical reaching. A local visitor industry. “All of these society members and to the exhibit, Donna people worked with each local families, Kevin Clavette Darling- other. One family would Yatarola led the research Boucher, has roots in help on a job over here, and installation of the the Darling family who and then they’d both go exhibit featuring many is featured in the exhibit. work with another family aspects of the logging Today, her grandson over there.” industry in Salisbury. continues the tradition Families who have played of working in logging. The exhibit walks you an important role in the Other family names such through the local families rich history of logging in as Moore, Lanphere, who were integral to the Salisbury are featured Helterline, Steciak, and logging industry, followed Logging in Salisbury and accompanied by Chmielewski are also by tools of the trade and newspaper articles and featured for their logging the unfortunate hazards A Salisbury tradition rare photos from the late legacies. of logging. The exhibit since the 1700s, logging 1800s to 1900s. is also a tribute to those provided homes with heat “Many of the photos were who were injured or lost and utilized the area’s “This is a different exhibit donated by the families,” their lives.

Kevin added. He was able to hear stories Local newspaper and build the exhibit by articles are scattered

throughout to tell the stories of the industry as well as mishaps and thievery that made the news. Transportation of wood and logs evolved over the years and is featured along with the larger corporate lumber companies that operated in the area in the early 1900s.

The exhibit is well organized and gives a glimpse into the lives and skills of the lumberjacks who brought lumber from forests to mills and onward with limited resources and how the industry evolved over time. It truly is a living community exhibit, and the incredible images on display tell how logging has been and continues to be, part of the fabric of residents’ lives.

Permanent Exhibits

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In addition to the summer exhibit, the Historical Society has standing collections of cheese-making and milk production, mills along Spruce Creek, the iron mines, one-room schoolhouses, and local characters such as Nat Foster. Relics from St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, including a stained-glass window and pump organ, Please See LOGGERS Page 11

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LOGGERS From Page 10 are also on display. You can also view a collection from the former Salisbury Post Office. Themed rooms, such as the dining room and bedroom, give visitors a glimpse into the lives and history of this small but important town.

and history Museum for the Salisbury area.

Located at #109, Route 29A in Salisbury Center, NY, the Frisbie House will be open every Sunday from 1:00 - 3:00 PM until the weekend before Labor Day.

Built by Billious Avery for the Augustus Frisbie family in 1805, the Frisbie House is a federal-style historic building. It was the first frame house constructed in Salisbury and served as the first inn and tavern. Town meetings were also held here. Added to the State and National Registry of Historic Places in 1999, it is the home of the Salisbury Historical Society, the local heritage

Keep an eye out for special events and talks during the season as well.

The Historical Society exists on donations and receives grants based on visitors, so be sure to sign the guest book and donate to help keep the history of the Salisbury area alive at the Frisbie House!

The Frisbie House, Home of the Salisbury Historical Society Museum.

You can follow them on Facebook for more information.

Permanent Exhibits at The Frisbie House: Left: Dining Room, Right: Bedroom

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Homeschooling in the Mohawk Valley include families who homeschool and are The school year has moving their children up ended for most students a grade in their learning. in the Mohawk Valley, While the end of a school and summertime fun can year and the anticipation begin. of the next does not entail a new teacher, a different Proud parents and class of peers, or a new family members share building as it might for photos on social media those in public school, of their kiddo’s Pre-K homeschooling students graduations, ceremonies and their parents are to mark the transition from still excited for the next elementary to middle chapter. school, middle to high school, and high school Mary Martens of Mohawk graduates celebrating homeschools her ninea most momentous year-old son, who has achievement. just finished third grade.

They use a curriculum These celebrations called Bookshark

By Allysa Rader

that offers completion certificates when a subject is completed.

“I always make a big deal about signing the certificate and handing it to him. Then we take a picture to mark the occasion and get ice cream at Mrs. Shakes to celebrate. It’s a tradition, and it’s nice to celebrate his accomplishment of completing a grade. I really know how hard he worked because I was with him every step of the way, watching him,” said Mary.

Mary appreciates that

Little Falls potter Natalie Parent teaches the Herkimer Homeschool 4-H club how to use a pottery wheel.

teaching her son means having an active role in his learning.

“I get to see his strengths and weaknesses and help him. He will never

fall through the cracks because I’m paying close attention and putting extra help into areas where he needs it, and diving deeper into topics he’s particularly good at or especially enjoys.”

Mary also plans to homeschool her 2-yearold son once he is schoolage.

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“We just love the freedom it gives us. We don’t have to live by someone else’s schedule. We make our own. We went to Florida last year, and we were able to go for three weeks, and I just planned our school schedule around it. We had a bunch of educational field trips down there too. Learning is all of the time, not just when you sit down and do your curriculum. I also feel like we get more field trips than public school does, thanks to the great homeschool groups around here. And, there is nothing better than first-hand experiences.”

According to the National Home Education Research Institute, homeschooled children score 15 to 30 percentile points above public school students on standardized tests. There were 3.1 Please See HOMESCHOOLING Page 13

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HOMESCHOOLING From Page 12 million homeschooled students in 2021-2022 in grades K-12 in the United States, roughly 6% of all students in this grade range.

Jennifer Pierce recently moved to Herkimer from Oriskany. She homeschools her two daughters, ages 13 and 8. “I was homeschooled growing up and experienced many of the benefits. I had always thought I’d want to homeschool my children eventually”, explained Jennifer.

“My older daughter was struggling in public school with math and English.

Along with a collection of other reasons, we started homeschooling in 2020. I didn’t want them wearing a mask all day or to get the mindset that social distancing was normal. I wanted them to be able to socialize like normal,” says Jennifer.

Parents and guardians who homeschool their children can also choose what they learn and how they learn it. For example, parents may base some learning around family practices and traditions, such as faith-based beliefs. Learning can also be structured around a family’s interests. While New York State does have

LIFE From Page 9 educational requirements and mandatory reporting for students registered as being homeschooled, parents still have the freedom to incorporate topics, field trips, books, and other learning methods of their choice.

about this because I know the truth. When people get to read the book and look at the evidence, they’re going to know that Herkimer is the true home of basketball. Hopefully, we’ll get support from the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield to tell that story.”

huge. “We really believe that Herkimer deserves to become to basketball what Cooperstown is to baseball.”

“It puts Herkimer on the map. If all we do is save those historic buildings that witnessed the Jennifer also mentioned beginning of basketball, the flexibility of scheduling I believe we can freeze and setting a pace tailored Flansburg said that to be that block in time, and to her children’s needs 28 miles from the Hall people can come there as a positive aspect of of Fame for Baseball their homeschooling and to have a hall of and shoot baskets where fame here, even if it’s just baskets were first shot,” experience.

New York State, will be he said.

“I am able to cater to their learning styles and If you would like to see your story in the Mohawk Valley interests so they can Express - email it to news@mohawkvalleyexpress.com develop a love of learning.

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We invite you to come and visit our NEWLY UPDATED Herkimer office at 410 Folts Street & Rt 28, Herkimer, NY. www.hbegroup.com 315-429-3181 315-866-3140 Two homeschool students from Little Falls attend “Homeschool Day” at the Cooperstown Farmers Museum.

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HOMESCHOOLING From Page 13 I have the ability to go at their pace so they can go slower where needed and advance where gifted.

We can have a flexible schedule that utilizes any time of day and any place for learning. My children get to really socialize with all ages so they can become more socially rounded. I appreciate the ability to add life skills and practical knowledge along with things like community service to their education. When you homeschool, you have a closer relationship with your kids because you spend so much more time with them, and they are also closer to their siblings.”

homeschooling their children, Jennifer advises knowing the state regulations on what is required. She also recommends getting to know your kids and their learning styles and interests to help with curriculum decisions.

“And, get a network of friends and support, along with telling yourself you can do this!” said Jennifer.

Jennifer leads the Herkimer County 4-H homeschool club. “I started a 4-H club as a way to develop friendships, to have the ability to participate in 4-H events and use their resources. I was in 4-H Homeschooling your growing up.” children is not always easy, says Jennifer. Jennifer’s homeschool “The challenge for me is 4-H group has 15 active getting subjects done that families from across my kids would prefer not Herkimer County and to do - math & English. continues to grow. The I also have to referee group visits local farms sibling disagreements and businesses, hiking while teaching them. trails and parks, and And, at times, it can learns practical skills be challenging to find such as foraging and something to spark their sewing. interest.”

Jennifer is happy to be For anyone considering homeschooling in the

Mohawk Valley. “I think this area is gradually growing the number of options for extracurricular and group activities, and it would be nice for this to continue.

There are resources with libraries, co-ops or LEAH groups, and other youth organizations, and being in touch with other homeschoolers can be a wealth of information.

There is a gradual increase in the number of co-ops in the area.

Hopefully, it continues!”

Erika Carrier of Frankfort is also part of the Herkimer County Homeschool 4-H group.

Erika homeschools her two sons, ages 10 and 8.

Local homeschool student celebrates the end of the school year.

Photo submitted.

Erika has been homeschooling her children for three years and hopes to continue for as long as her kids would like to.

“We chose to homeschool when the district we lived in was mandating masks in school. My son has asthma, so him in a mask all day just wasn’t going Please See HOMESCHOOLING Page 15

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HOMESCHOOLING From Page 14 to work. And my other son was anxious in school.

He didn’t like how rushed it was. So, we decided to try to homeschool,” Erika explained.

Erika also feels there are many benefits of homeschooling her children. “I get to spend a lot of time with my children. We aren’t rushed to get up and get to school all week and then hurry up and fit everything in together on the weekends.”

Erika stated that one of the challenges with homeschooling was finding groups to make friends, but they overcame this challenge.

“A lot of other families are starting to homeschool, so we are starting our own groups. We have 4H, and karate, and the library sometimes has

lives because of the path we have chosen.”

homeschool-specific classes.”

her husband have been homeschooling their children for ten years.

Erika would recommend “Initially, we started homeschooling to homeschooling because anyone that wants to the thought of sending give it a try. “You can find our son to school felt like resources to help with we’d be letting strangers what curriculum to use. raise our children,” said The Home School Legal Sonya.

Defense Association continue to (HSLDA) is helpful if They their you need someone to homeschool navigate the laws. And son, age 13, and their other families are always daughter, age 10. “For willing to help as well. I us, I’d describe the wish the programs we homeschool experience have available weren’t as life-changing. It is a so expensive but rewarding journey filled everything is expensive with trials, errors, laughter, these days. We just don’t true purpose, and an have a Parent Teacher amazing community. I Association to help cover love the people that have become a part of our the costs.”

Sonya Conners is the leader of the Herkimer LEAH, a faith-based homeschool club with many chapters across the state. Sonya and

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Sonya feels there are many benefits for her children when it comes to schooling them at home. “For our son, the ‘how and why’ for homeschooling him is the flexibility it provides and having his parents as his teacher. For our daughter, she likes the comfort of home, knowing who is teaching her, and the friends she has made in our community.”

And as for the kids’ opinion on homeschooling, “That depends on the subject!” laughed Sonya.

The Mohawk Valley is rich with a thriving

homeschool community and available resources to support and bridge any gaps in learning.

Children from toddlers and younger up to teens learn and play together during homeschool community trips, outings, and gatherings.

Homeschooled students can also participate in extracurriculars such as ASO soccer, Girl and Boy Scouts, karate, dance, and gymnastics. While homeschooling may not be possible, practical, or the best option for every family, for these Mohawk Valley families, this path seems to work and provide enrichment for both the parents and their children.

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Amateur Radio ‘Field Days’ draws interest

Story & McEvoy

Photos

by

Andy

The Fort Herkimer Amateur Radio Association (FHARA) started the annual ARRL North American Field Days at 2 pm Saturday, June 24th, 2023. Field Days run for 24 continuous hours, with members either splitting shifts or working the radios nonstop. The event is held in a field on Kilts Hill Road just north of Little Falls, NY, and is open to the public.

One of the first visitors that stopped by was Assemblyman Robert Smullen and his wife, Megan. Robert is an Assemblyman for the 118th District and has assisted the FHARA numerous times over the last ten months in acquiring the 24ft Emergency Communications Trailer that the FHARA took

possession of the past week.

down, we have to have the means to be able to communicate. Ham He was thanked for his Radio, and particularly assistance by Association these civic organizations, President Don Peterson provide that extra layer of (KD2ILO), Vice President security, and we should Andy McEvoy (KB2KBO), always help them and and Treasurer Chris provide the funding so Assemblyman Robert Smullen (left) and Don Rankins (N2ZWO), ARES/RACES Coordinator for FHARA work the radio.

Bouck (KB4CMF). they can maintain the Assemblyman Smullen equipment.” on several stations. The h t t p s : / / w w w. a r r l . o r g / and his wife were frequencies were bustling public-service. shown around the trailer “You don’t need them with radio traffic as the and briefed on the until it’s a true emergency, event was in full swing.

The FHARA hosts a Association’s needs and and that’s really the tricky Weekly Monday Night Net plans to outfit the trailer part,” he stated.

The FHARA had over a at 7 pm on the frequency with communications dozen members set up 145.110 (-0.6 MHZ) PL equipment in the near Assemblyman Smullen in campers, tents, and Tone 167.9. Members future. The FHARA served 24 years with the trailers. Many types of check in and are updated members discussed United States Marine antennas were utilized on any Association the plans for the Corps, retiring in 2015. depending on which news or functions.

EMCOMM trailer, Although he has not bands or frequencies A short Emergency including Emergency been active with Amateur the members were Preparedness Training and recreational use for Radio, he spent a communicating on. All is usually broadcast public events. considerable amount of radio communications every week as well. Any time with communications are off-grid and help Licensed operator can Smullen stated, “From equipment while in the demonstrate how participate regardless my time in the Marine service and was able Amateur (HAM) Radio of whether or not they Corps in Afghanistan, I to talk the talk with a can get communications are a member of the know how hard it is to few of the group’s more through if other means of Association.

Weekly communicate, especially experienced members. communication fail. check-ins include ham in rural mountainous Under supervision, radio operators from areas. If all of the cell Assemblyman Smullen To learn more about phones and landlines go worked the HAM radios Amateur Radio, go to Please See RADIO Page 17

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E X P R E S S

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Where I Wander - Rubythroated Hummingbirds Story By Joan Herrmann

Whereiwander… every spring, about the first week of May, I can expect to hear a familiar whir of wings and chipping sounds, to make me aware that this territory is being reclaimed, and where did you put our feeders.

The male Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) has returned.

Ruby-throated is our only eastern hummingbird.

The other seventeen species of hummingbirds that can be found in North America, reside west of the Mississippi River. The males will arrive in our area a few days prior to the females’ arrival. The migrating hummingbirds will have journeyed nonstop over the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of about five hundred miles. Before starting their journey, they will double their body weight in fat and live off their body fat while flying over the water. Migrating from Central America across the Gulf waters will take them about twenty hours, but they still have a long, long way to travel.

R u b y - t h r o a t e d hummingbirds have a phenomenal metabolic rate that is higher than any other animal. Their heart rate is about one thousand two hundred and sixty beats per minute, and their breathing rate is about two hundred and fifty breaths per minute, even while resting. Scientists have learned that during flight, the hummingbird consumes ten times more oxygen than human “elite athletes.” Their wings can beat fifty-three times per second as they hover and feed. In addition to flying forward, they can also fly backward and upside down.

The male’s aerial mating display includes flying back and forth like a pendulum in front of the female until she

is accepting, and then they will mate.

Males are polygamous and will mate with more than one female. Males take no responsibility in nest making, incubating, or caring for the nestlings.

The female is the architect designing the lichencovered nest, laying two or occasionally three eggs, and perhaps reusing the same nest for a second brooding in the same season. The cup-shaped nest is about one inch in width and depth. She assembles it with plant materials and spider webs and covers the outside with greenish-gray lichen. The silky spider webs allow for the expansion of the nest as the nestlings grow within it. She will line the inside of the nest with dandelion or colt’s foot downy seed fluff.

The female will most often nest in a mixed deciduous and coniferous forest. The nesting trees of choice are usually six to fifty feet tall, with ten to twenty feet being the average height.

She attaches the nest to a small twig or small branch that slants downward from the tree, is sheltered above by leafy branches, and has an open area below the nesting site. The female will take about seven or eight days to complete her nest.

The eggs which she lays are glossy white and about the size of a white bean.

She will incubate the eggs for approximately fourteen to sixteen days. The nestlings are born altricial, which means they are immobile, downless, with closed eyes, and need to be fed. For the first few days, shortly after being fed, the nestlings will expel a fecal sac after eating. The female will remove the fecal sac preventing the nest from being contaminated with Please See RUBY Page 19

V A L L E Y JULY 2023

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KB4CMF at 1-315-4293927 or Association Anyone interested in President Don Peterson Herkimer, Montgomery, the FHARA can attend KD2ILO at 1-315-868Fulton, Schoharie, a meeting or call 3283 for more information.

Chenango, Otsego, Educational Committee More info can be found at Oneida, and Madison Chairman Chris Bouck www.fhara.net.

RADIO From Page 16

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Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs provide mid-season update

By Dave Warner

The PGCBL (Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League) Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs provided a midseason update on the team this week. They are currently 14-5 and in second place in the East Division.

Travis Heiser is the team owner, and his message is simple, “The Diamond Dawgs are deeply committed to providing the best, most affordable, family fun and fan experience in the Mohawk Valley.”

When asked about the team and how he feels they’ve been playing through the first half of the year, he stated, “I think our players have jelled really early this year, which is something that we’ve struggled with in the past.”

he said.

Heiser said that the team players have bought into the family environment he tries to create, along with the blue-collar atmosphere. “They go out and fight day in and day out. I like that even though we may be down “For whatever reason, sometimes in games...we this year has been never quit, and we keep something that I haven’t battling and grinding experienced in the things out.” sixteen years I’ve been here - having players jell “I think that’s part of the within the first two weeks reason we’ve had the has been amazing to early success that we’ve see. It’s almost like a had.” brotherhood and that these players have been Coach Steve Luby said, together for many years,” “I’m really pleased with

our kids. I think we’ve got an outstanding group of young men that play together and for each other. I think they’ve bonded really well.”

Offensively, he said they’re swinging pretty well and constantly working. “I think our pitching staff has done a great job as far as continuing to grow and finding their role in the rotation. Defensively, for the most part, we play pretty solid defense.”

“The more we compete, the more we’re going to grow,” he said.

He said one of the nice things was that several players had not gotten a lot of innings before coming to the Diamond

Dawgs. “They’ve really grabbed onto our philosophy of being bluecollar, working through things, and putting in the time and effort to improve.”

Coach Luby stated that Heiser does a fantastic job when it comes to recruiting players. “The part that I really like about our kids is that they are coachable. They listen and want to work to make adjustments to improve. That’s really the goal - to send them back to their schools, better than we got them, and they’re doing that.”

After battling Covid for two seasons, the weather has been a factor this year, with abundant rain, smoke from Canada, and cold weather affecting the schedule and gameplay.

“These are things you can’t prepare for. Rain happens every summer, but having the smoke and those kinds of issues have made it challenging for us and every other team in the league,” Heiser said.

He said the real credit goes to the players and coaches who have fought through it.

“Our grounds crew in Little Falls has done a good job preparing the field. I think it has been a team effort from everyone, but the players are here to play.”

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Heiser said, “The team just doesn’t quit. We get down, and it would be easy to say let’s just get through the game and go home, but I feel these guys want to win and get better.”

Please See UPDATE Page 19

M O H A W K RUBY From Page 17

feces. On approximately day three, the nestlings will move to the edge of the nest and “squirt” their waste over the side of the nest. The nestlings grow very quickly and need to be fed constantly. The female will retrieve nectar from flowers; find small insects like aphids and tiny spiders, working continually throughout the daylight hours to feed her hungry brood. Thankfully they grow quickly and are ready to fledge within fourteen to twenty-eight days. At fledging, they will be fully feathered and able to fly and find their own food.

They will undoubtedly still beg for food, and she will teach them how and what to eat.

Hummingbirds have a tongue that is long and forked. It is actually two times longer than its beak and is lined with a “hair-like fringe” that is called lamellae. As the hummingbird extends its tongue into a tubular flower where the liquid nectar is found, the tongue laps up the nectar and pulls it back into its beak. Male Rubythroated Hummingbirds live about five years, and the life expectancy of the female is about nine years. Their tiny bodies are between 2.8 inches to 3.5 inches in length for the male and 3.1 inches to 4.3 inches for the female. The male’s weight is estimated at 0.12 ounces, and the female is slightly larger at 0.13 ounces. They are dimorphic, which means they appear different in color and size. The male is an iridescent deeper green than the female and has a ruby-colored gorget (throat patch) which, in certain lighting, can appear black. His chest is a sooty white in color. The female coloring is a limier green iridescent, and she also has a sooty white breast but no gorget. They both have tiny feet and even though they are most often

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you have a team down He said the players arrive and out, you really need early to practice daily, to put the hammer down even if they’re not in the and put them out of the night’s lineup. “When game without question.” their number is called, they’re ready to go.”

Luby said, “We haven’t seen a couple of teams Heiser said the one thing yet. I know Albany’s pretty they need to work on is good, Saugerties and not letting large leads slip Utica are always good, so away. “Even when we win I think that just us coming our native games, and we’ve been to play, regardless of who that are up big, we’ve had teams shows up, is the key. Us by the come back on us. When playing our game. If we

seen flying or hovering, they can perch on a twig or on the provided perch of a hummingbird feeder.

In winter, they molt their worn feathers and replace them with new ones. They can often be observed on a twig preening their feathers using their feet as “combs” to scratch their neck or head.

Some of wildflowers preferred hummingbirds are columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) in the spring and both red cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) and jewelweed/ spotted touch-me-not (Impatiens capensis) in the fall. Hummingbirds are instrumental in pollinating all three of these flowers because of their long beak and tongues. It becomes a symbiotic relationship for both, providing food for one and continuation of the species for the other.

Other interesting facts are that the males will depart for their winter habitat about a month before the females and the fledglings. Each species of hummingbird have a unique “humming sound” in flight due to the number of wing beats per species. The ruby-throated hummingbird in flight beats its wings fifty-three beats per second. Unfortunately, hummingbirds occasionally fall prey to predators such as sharp-shinned hawks and other small raptors.

Blue jays and crows will sometimes eat the nestlings, and house cats have also been known to prey on hummingbirds. On a happier note, they always seem to bring us great joy. I sincerely thank my dear neighbors and close friends for giving me an opportunity to photograph the hummingbird nest and nestlings which appear in this column. A joy that is shared is a joy made double… Thank you so much.

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do that and take care of our business, we will find ourselves in the hunt at the end of the season.”

The coach also complemented Tyler Roper for doing a fantastic job with the kids.

“Without him, we wouldn’t be where we are.”

“I’m really excited to see where the season ends,” Heiser finished.

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