Happy New Year and Happy Weekend!

There are plenty of things to do this New Years:

The Annual Oneonta Frost Bite Race! 20-26 Ford Avenue, Oneonta, Phone: 607 432-0010, 1pm Dec 31.

All the local New Year's events appear to be listed at oneontaonthemap.com (perhaps I'll see you at one of them!)

The Interskate 88 New Years Party is probably the most 'family friendly.' Located on Oneonta's Southside, Route 23, Oneonta, NY. 8pm - 1am, Phone: 607 432-0366.

That said, kids are free at the Foothills Performing Arts Center New Year's celebration. Info 431-2080.

At 6pm on the 31th, the Oneonta Chess Club (yes) is meeting at the Capresso Coffee Bar on Main St. Info: 206-0510.

Do not forget to look up at the moon and enjoy a 'blue moon' on New Year's Eve. Even if you are really planning to just go to bed at nine.

The new Mayor will be sworn in at noon on Jan 1st.

Happy New Year everyone!!!

Looking ahead:

Monday-Wednesday, Jan 4-6th: Sculpture Workshop, 10am - 4pm at 429 Chicken Farm Rd. Otego, NY, Phone: (607) 783-2476, ElizabethNieldsClayWorkshop.com

If you are looking for artsy entertainment in the local area or further out, do check out WSKG's arts calendar. It's easy to look through and they are easy to post an event to!

A blue moon for New Year's

This New Year's Eve will feature a full moon, not only a full moon, but a 'blue' moon, which simply means it is the second full moon in a month.

Sky Diva Tavi Greiner is leading the countdown at gallery.ASkyFullOfStars.com.

Happy Holidays

I hope you are all snug and warm this weekend. I've really enjoyed spending extra time with my kids and our traditions of making cookies, singing songs, and visiting family. We have a new tradition in our house: Santa puts onions in the kid's stockings. I forget how this got started, but they each asked Santa for an onion once again this year! I will fry them up for Christmas dinner. Lucky me, my mother in law is doing the rest of the cooking.

Normally I would post the weekends events, but I really didn't find much. But if you're thinking ahead:

New Year's Eve at The Foothills: 2 parties for 1 ticket, Food, drinks, live music, parade, interactive art for kids, for info: 431-2080. 5:30 pm - 2am, kids free.

Mark your calendar for the Hanford Mills ice harvest Jan 6th.

All the best!

-Amy

The weekend!

Take some time out from Holiday Shopping to enjoy some of the great events going on this December:

See The Nutcracker this weekend when the Fokine Ballet performs at The Goodrich Theater, SUNY Oneonta; 7pm Fri Dec 18 and at 1pm and 7pm on Sat Dec 19, call 607 432-6290.

The Samadhi Band will be playing a free concert at the Green Earth Health Food Market (4 Market St) in Oneonta, Sat Dec 19th from 1-4 pm. Local band members will be playing original acoustic music with uplifting lyrics about peace, spirit, nature, paradise, joy, and children's topics. There will be bells for children to use and join in the music and dancing fun. Green Earth: 432-7160, Samadhi Band: 607-783-9492.

Enjoy a Christmas Concert: a cappella trio 'Redeeming Love', at the Green Toad Bookstore on Main St, 7pm on Sat Dec 19th.

Handel's Messiah will be performed Sat in Cooperstown Sat at 8pm at the Christ Episcopal Church ($18 tickets).

Sunday 20 Dec brings Candlelight Evening to The Farmer's Museum (1,156 candles--it will be beautiful).

View more, including Breakfast with Santa at Ruffino's at OneontaOnTheMap.com.

If you're closer to Cooperstown, try the Chamber of Commerce's new site, which has some great event listings.

The weekend

If you're in downtown Oneonta this Sat Dec. 12, stop by the Greater Oneonta Historical Society History Center, 183 Main St., to see their electric train set and holiday decorations.

Breakfast with Santa Sun Dec. 13 8am-1pm Otsego Firehouse River StreetOtego, NY

36th annual Community Christmas Carol at the First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY Featuring Catskill Choral Society Girl Choir, First United Methodist Church Brass Choir, Pathfinder Village Bell Ringers and soloists.

Free Children's Movies at the Oneonta Theater, 47 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820, Sat December 12, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.

Downtown Oneonta Open House! Main Street, Oneonta, NY 13820 December 12, 2009 10 am - 5 pm.

Sint Niklaas Visits the Brewery (Cooperstown) 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown, NY 13326-9248, 800 544-1809 December 12, 2009 12 - 5 pm

Orpheus Theatre: The Producers SUNY Oneonta (Goodrich Theatre), Oneonta, NY 13820, 607 432-9392. Not for kids, but fun! December 11, 2009 to December 13, 2009

Santa Express Trains 136 E. Main St. Milford, NY 13807 607 432-2429 Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad December 12, 2009 to December 13, 2009, departing at 2 pm

Fokine Ballet: The Nutcracker, Ravine Parkway Oneonta, NY 13820 607 432-6290 December 18, 2009 to December 19, 2009

Sat 12 Dec 2-4ppm Come join Santa for cookies and cocoa. Santa will be handing out a gift to all good boys and girls. Free craft project. Free Dec 12 2-4:30 at K and B Craft Supplies 6 Center Street Milford. Across from the post office parking lot.
For info: 286-7924

Visit Santa on main st: see The Oneonta Calendar for dates and times.

Wow, wow, wow

I have to say that I was beyond impressed by the presentation provided today by the students of the Cooperstown Graduate Program. They were 100% professional, very positive, and they have clearly outlined very realistic next steps for Oneonta World of Learning (OWL). I cannot thank them enough, and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of their complete evaluation - a very thick book outlining their research, complete with accompanying cd filled with reference materials.

They gave their presentation at the Fenimore Art Musuem. Do drop by there tonight and see It's A Wonderful Life on the large screen (for a nickel!).

Cruel to be kind

Tomorrow, the Cooperstown Graduate Program will present the results of their semester's study on, well, Oneonta World of Learning (OWL). A part of me wants them to be kind. After all, we've worked so hard. Yet I know that isn't what we need. What we are truly hoping for is an honest evaluation of our organization, the area we live in, and the road ahead.

Perhaps I'm equally excited about just getting together with my team mates.

'Tis the season

I for one couldn't be happier with our first snow fall this season! The tree in Muller Plaza couldn't look better and the sledding is terrific, especially since this year the boys are eagerly pulling their own sleds up the hill! What a difference a year makes.

We also made graham cracker houses for the first time together. NOT a recipe for a relaxing family evening! But fun nonetheless. The mess in the foreground: my oldest decided that his house was caving in from snow.

Happy Holidays everyone!

The weekend 5-6 Dec 2009

It's not possible to keep up with all of the events during Dec. There are just too many! If you are bored this weekend, it's your own fault:

Sat and Sun 10am-4pm, The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard will offer demonstrations on how to make Wassail, the traditional holiday drink, as Wassailing Weekends continue.

Festival of Trees at the Glimmerglass State Park 12-8pm on Sat, 12-5pm on Sun.

The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad is offering Santa Trains, Christmas Lights Trains, and more this December. Call 607 432-2429 or visit http://www.lrhs.com/.

Sat there will be holiday events in Franklin. Details are at http://www.oneontatoday.com.

Main View Gallery & Studio’s winter exhibit, Small Wonders, opens with a reception on December 11 from 5-7 pm at 73 Main St. Oneonta, NY. Small Wonders features an eclectic array of affordable original work including metal jewelry, ceramic pieces, silk screenings, ornaments, fabric sculptures and small paintings plus other gift items. Opening reception 12/11/09, 5-7 pm. Exhibit runs until 3/1/2010. 73 Main St. Oneonta, NY 607-432-1890 www.mainviewgallery.org

Family Service Association fund raiser and donations drive at the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club, 70 River St, Sat 5 Sept 11am-2pm. Accepting new and gently used items. Also offering bake sale, crafts with Mrs. Claus, face painting, chair massages. Contact Laura 607-643-8029.

With weather this nice, might as well drop by the Oneonta Farmer's Market. Santa's making regular appearances. Details at http://mainstreetoneonta.com/.

There are free movies at The Oneonta Theater this weekend, holiday bazaars by the dozen in the area, concerts, holiday workshops, and most of the listing are on http://oneontaonthemap.com/.

There are also a lot of visits from Santa listed on http://www.theoneontacalendar.com/Calendar.html.

Looking Ahead:

Free pictures with Santa Claus Thurs 10 Dec at Otsego Physical Medicine, 12:30-6:00pm. Donations of unwrapped, unused toys donated to Woman's Violence Intervention and Opportunities for Otsego.41-45 Dietz St Oneonta, 431-9191.

Musical Madrigal Dinner

Here's a little mid-week fun: There will be a Musical Madrigal Dinner Dec 1 2009, at 6pm at the United Methodist church at 66 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, NY. The event features a royal holiday celebration, four course meal, chamber music and madrigal singers. Reservations recommended: call 607-431-4800 or email clarkl@hartwick.edu. Cost: $60/family of four; $25 adult; $20 senior/student; $10 under 16 yrs. This event will benefit Nurses Without Borders and Jamaica School Mission Project.

Our Mission

It's been just a little over a year since our then small team went public with our dream to found a children's museum in Oneonta. We sold baked goods, took signatures, and met the public at The Grand and Glorious Garage Sale on Main Street. Soon after, we started planning Paintfest! which was a success by all accounts. Since then it's been a wild ride, from New Year's Eve activities, to Science Saturdays, Books Alive, the Ice Cream Social in Wilber Park, even our first exhibit, Trains! Trains! Trains! At some point, we chose our name: Oneonta World of learning (OWL). This month, The Cooperstown Graduate Program students are going to present the result of a semester long research project toward the development of our master plan. It's hard to believe that our Second Annual Paintfest! has now come and gone.

There's so much work ahead, it can feel overwhelming, yet the journey thus far has already changed my life. My job as a Java programmer is a direct result of web programming classes I took just so I could help out with OWL. More than that, I've grown more capable both as a parent and an individual. My kids have been on stage, made phunny putty, sprouted beans, created taleidoscopes, and shared a world's worth of experiences that would never have happend without my involvement in this project.

Just the same, this is a good time to regroup and restate our mission:

A children’s museum is not a museum in the classic sense. Exhibits are meant to be hands on, with engaging, kid-friendly activities. In The Children’s Museum at Oneonta, we will provide children and those who care for them with an interactive and engaging environment for exploration. Visitors will gain an understanding of their place in the local community and subsequently the global community through hands-on, minds-on discoveries.

We envision a world where children will grow to be creative, confident, and caring members of society by discovering the essential components of community. Children will become active problem-solvers through invention and guided play. Far from being controlled play, guided play simply means that a minimum of inspiration, ideas, or parameters will be provided to engage children’s interest in an activity.

There, I've said it! And I'm focused once again on the goal.

Yes, I am posting this week--

I fell asleep while putting the kids to bed last night. Needless to say, I didn't get an events posting together on time. So tonight, in a leap of faith, I helped the boys take apart their little foam disk gun. We even got the tiny little motor apart. I was able to look up the events info for the rest of the weekend while they played with the spare parts. Here goes:

Wassailing Weekends continue at the Fly Creek Cider Mill.

11 am Sat Nov 21 Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a horse drawn wagon during the Main Street Oneonta Holiday Parade. Candy, floats, a fire truck, jugglers and more! Parade starts on Elm St. and turns onto Main St. to Chestnut St. extension. From noon-3pm, visit Santa for free at his cottage in the downtown plaza. And from noon-1:30pm, Mrs. Claus reads stories at The Green Toad Bookstore, Main Street Oneonta.

Family Fun Day is from 1-3pm on Nov 21 at the Wilber Mansion, visit programs@uccca.com.

Also Sat is the Preparing for Winter children's program at the Rogers Conservation Center.

Dairy Farm tours are available this Saturday, details at the chamber of commerce.

Sun Nov 22nd is Decorating Day in Cooperstown.

Sun 22 Nov: Crafts, kids activities, dress up, story telling and more when Families Explore the Victorian Era in Corning.

This one is not for little kids, but having seen the play last weekend, I'd like to recommend seeing A Nice Family Gathering in Worchester (Sat evening or Sun matinee).

Looking ahead:

Holiday Train of lights Nov 29th.

Many thanks to our sponsors

Your generosity has made this event a success!

First and foremost, to The Arc Otsego, who co-sponsored this event and provided the building, many thanks for rolling out the red carpet for us. You go above and beyond the call.

Secondly, to our many, many volunteers: sometimes time is the most precious gift you can give. Thanks for sharing yours.

Special thanks to Zena Gurbo, Solveig Comer and Susan Miller for the magnificent (and free) workshops.

And thankyou to our local principals Mr. Cook, Mrs. Murdock, and Mrs. Shea (stunt double), and especially to the 'winner,' Mr. Baskin, for your willingness to let us paint you.

Our many additional sponsors provided funding, services or materials for t-shirts, paint, paint brushes, paper, snacks, marbles, pizza boxes, pizzas, parking spaces, shuttle services and much, much more:

Five Star Subaru
A&D Transportation Services
Amazable Science Adventures
Artware
Bella Michael's
Catskill Mountain Embroidery & Screenprinting
Central New York Radio Group
The Country Cubby
Dr. Carolyn Chryst
The Daily Star
Emily & Jerry Dudek
Hearths a'Fire
Country Club Automotive Group
Pennysaver
Holmes Financial Group
Hometown Oneonta
Latte Lounge
NYCM Insurance
Schuman B-Line Moving & Storage
Sissy's Little Lambs Children's Center
Sport Tech
Towne Flooring & Kitchens
Tri-County Glass Co.
Visionary Baths & More
VSH Contractors
www.JoeRuffinos.com
Unadilla Laminated Products
Raphael Web Photography
Rent-A-Wreck

I should go on and thank the many OWL regulars, who attend planning meetings, try to stay awake through board meetings, prepare riveting documents such as 501(c)3 applications, and somehow manage to pull off fantastic events like this one! You are the best and it is truly my priveledge to be counted among you.

I not only survived Paintfest,

I really enjoyed it! I will extend my many thanks tomorrow, but tonight I wanted to share a little feedback from one of our participants:

I just wanted to let you know that Paintfest this year was a wonderful event! We had a great time last year, but the few improvements this year made it even better!!!

The pizza boxes were an awesome idea as was the snack section with the painted
cookies! [The pizza boxes were to carry home your wet artwork in.] That was actually my son's favorite part, although he enjoyed all the various painting activities! The t-shirts were a great bonus as well!

I just wanted to write you a quick note to let you know that it was a great event, one that we continue to look forward to every year! Thanks for all of your hard work!

I thought it went well, too, but it means so much to hear it from others. Good work team!

And the winner is...

Mr. Baskin of Valley View! Of the 3,057 votes cast, 1,554 votes went to him! Mr. Cook of Center Street got 1,294 votes.
Thanks go to Mr. Baskin and Mr. Cook as well as Mrs. Shea (a stunt double for Mr. Rabler) and Mrs. Murdock, who all volunteered to enter our contest. Mr. Baskin will be painted by the attendees at Paintfest this weekend. Details are at OneontaWorldOfLearning.org.

The weekend

Now through Nov 15th, A Midsummer Night's Dream at Hartwick, call 607-431-4227 for info.

Fri Nov 14th The Pumpkin Pie Show at Foothills.

Fri and Sat Nov 14-15, The Catskill Symphony Orchestra performs at the SUNY Hunt Union Ballroom, Oneonta.

Sat Nov 14th, Paintfest! 10am-2pm 63 LOWER River St in Oneonta: Washable fun for the whole family (free - $5 donation appreciated). No registration necessary for the ten different painting activities. There's still plenty of room in the workshops (painting pottery, print making and family collage). Details, directions and registration for workshops at OneontaWorldOfLearning.org.

This Saturday: Wassailing Weekends begin at the Fly Creek Cider Mill.

Sun Nov 15th, Singing Boys of Pennsylvania, 4-6pm, St. Andrew's Church, 40 S. Main St, New Berlin NY.

Looking ahead:

Thursday Nov 19th, Main Street Oneonta is presenting a holiday ornament workshop!

12-4pm Nov 20, Photos with Santa at Party Perfect, Clinton Plaza, Oneonta, For info: 432-2180, partyperfect@clarityconnect.com.

Paintfest registration

Registration for Paintfest workshops (Sat Nov 14th!!!) is now available on our website OneontaWorldOfLearning.org. There are tons of open activities as well, for which registration is not necessary.

There have now been 1,714 votes cast in our Paint Your Principal contest! Mr. Cook of Center Street pulled well into the lead on Friday, but going into Monday morning, Mr. Baskin of Valleyview is ahead once again. Riverside or Greater Plains students could still turn this around! Vote early, vote often :)

The weekend (can't wait!)

Fri Nov 6th at Foothills -- Ukranian Eggs: Terrible Tales (might not be appropriate for little kids, but check it out).

Hanford Mills Museum presents boiler and steam engine operation workshops both Friday and Saturday.

Sat Nov 7th "Night at our museum" -- the Fenimore Art Museum

Oneonta community blood drive is Sat at 333 Main St, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. Sponsor: Main Street Baptist Church, 8:30am - 1:30pm.

Also Sat, 10am is a Wolf Program at the Rogers Environmental Center.

Sun Nov 8th Benefit for the Oneonta Theatre -- 24 bands! At 47 Chestnut Street, 10am-10pm. At 3pm the Oneonta Community Concert Band will present a Salute to Veterans.

Looking Ahead:

The next two Thursdays, Nov 12th and 19th, Main Street Oneonta is presenting holiday ornament workshops!

Workshop registration for Paintfest is now available! Register online at OneontaWorldOfLearning.org, email WorldOfLearning@Live.com or call Andrea 607-433-0160. By the way, Mr. Cook of Center Street, in a remarkable turn of events, is now well in the lead of Mr. Baskin of Valleyview in the paint your principal 'contest.' Riverside and Greater Plains will have to get busy voting! Remember, vote as many times as you like!

My new favorite local website: OneontaToday.com

Mr. Baskin is in the lead!!!

The votes are coming in from Oneonta elementary students! The principal with the most votes will be painted at Paintfest November 14th.

So far, Mr. Baskin of Valleyview is leading the pack with 60% of the votes! Mrs. Shea of Greater Plains (a talented stunt double) is second with only 17% of the vote, with Mrs. Murdock of Riverside on her heals at 16%. Mr. Cook of Center Street is trailing behind. However, this is still anyone's game! Vote as often as you like to make up the difference! Cast your ballot by following the link on www.OneontaWorldOfLearning.org.

Many thanks to Mayor John Nader, who volunteered to be painted at our first Paintfest in 2008. Good luck in your new endeavors (don't forget to vote tomorrow too, grownups!).

Last chance to see the Farmer's Museum

For a while anyway. Their regular season ends Saturday. I find myself already looking forward to 'sugaring off' (aka. pancake breakfast with real maple syrup) in the spring.

http://thefarmersmuseum.blogspot.com/2009/10/2009-season-wrap-up.html

TGIF

Fri 30 Oct 2009, Halloween Hop 7-9pm. Dance the night away with DJ Frankie Frank White. Refreshments served, costumes optional. $2 admission. Sponsored by The Arc Otsego. Asa C. Allison Municipal Bldg, 4 Academy St. Oneonta. Info: 432-8595, www.arcotsego.org.

Koresh Dance Company Open Rehearsal, Fri 30 Oct at 5:30pm, free admission, Goodrich Theater, Fine Arts Building, State University College at Oneonta.

7pm Fri at the Green Toad Bookstore, Spooky tales, frivolous fun, paranormal treasure hunt, 198 Main St. Oneonta, NY 13820, 607-433-8898.

Haunted Halloween Trains are nearly sold out! Fri and Sat 6pm http://www.lrhs.com/.

11 am Sat is the 2009 Gift of Life Kidney Walk at 1 Ravine Parkway Oneonta, NY, call 518 533-7883.

Sat 31 Oct, 11am Creepy crawly creatures' program at Sherburne Environmental Center. Info: 674-4017.

In Oneonta Saturday: Farmers Market, 9am-2pm. Trick or Treating on Main Street 3-6pm, with over 35 participating downtown businesses. Participating stores will be marked with an orange Halloween poster in their store front window. The Halloween Parade on Main Street is at 7pm. For Trick or Treating info: 434-6755, www.mainstreetoneonta.com.

Halloween in Stamford: Fun party, bonfire, scary stuff, eerie music and costume competition. Fun for all ages. 5 - 8 pm. At the Stamford Fire Hall, Stamford, NY.

Looking ahead:

Volunteers needed, no experience necessary: The Lord's Table, 18 Elm St, Oneonta, a feeding program, has been running short on volunteers at a time when the community needs this service more than ever. If you are able, do lend a hand. Call 432-3558 for details.

Paintfest is Saturday Nov 14th, bringing washable fun for the whole family! Children and their grown-ups are invited to join us to paint in fun, creative and unexpected ways from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at The ARC, Oneonta Day Services, 63 Lower River Street, Oneonta. 5$ suggested donation. Vote for your principal at www.OneontaWorldOfLearning.org. There will also be workshops available, I just don't have the details at my fingertips (and it's late!).

Interview with Jason Corrigan

As promised here is a statement from Oneonta Mayoral candidate Jason Corrigan, regarding programs and activities such as OWL:

"Thank you for your consideration in this matter. As mayor, I look to expand off of a number of current opportunities that exist within our community, as I believe we have a decent base of attraction that can be improved."

"I look at several programs that exist and look to either promote them to a larger extent, or to expand off of their success in order to increase tourism and community activities for our community members. For example, with the addition of the Foothills Performing Arts Center, I have already worked with their director, and have taken the initiative to speak with officials from Madison Square Garden Productions. Together, I look to bring in mainstream music and theater productions to provide additional areas of entertainment for our community, increase foot traffic and revenue downtown, and to market our community to the greater New York region."

"As for programs that I believe we can expand on, I attended our summer balloon festival and believe that there is a lot more we can do to bring in more tourists, while making the event more exciting for our residents. Where I grew up, there is an annual balloon festival that takes place in Glens Falls, NY. My family and I often attended the event, and it was very impressive as far as how many balloons were present, as well as how many local businesses were hands on in promoting their community. "

"I believe we can market this event even further so that we can reach more residents in central and upstate New York. As mayor, I would look to expand this program for an entire weekend, establishing space that allows families to camp out in Neawha Park for the weekend, granting them the opportunity to share an exciting weekend with their loved ones."

"In addition to this, I see an opportunity in expanding off of our summer baseball leagues, and creating a summer soccer league program. In Clifton Park, there is an annual soccer tournament where families as far as Italy come for the weekend, and spend their time and money in the community. I think this would be an excellent opportunity for Oneonta, as again, we would be able to increase our revenue and foot traffic, but this would also create an opportunity for our community's families to enjoy this sport with our children participating and their parents supporting them."

"Overall, these are just a few of many opportunities that we can explore. As mayor, I will be open for any suggestion or point of interest that would benefit our community and the families within our community. This is an excellent place to live and it is no coincidence that it has become my first "adult" home away from the place I grew up. I look forward to working with everyone in our community so that we, as a community of one, can create the environment that we see fit for our needs and others."

Thank you sincerely,

Jason Corrigan

OWL speaks with mayoral candidate

One of our board members, Aaron Sorenson, recently contacted Dick Miller, candidate for Mayor of Oneonta. The following statement represents Dick's official position with regard to Oneonta World of Learning (OWL).

"I am aware of OWL and support your efforts. I believe, in the new economy, that families, neighborhoods, and communities will become more important. America has lived in an unsustainable world of two parents working, pre-schools, childcare, easy credit, two homes, expensive vacations, etc. Our economy's contraction, which I believe is permanent, has the unintended positive consequence of making our nearby environment more important to us."

"Oneonta's nature is such that it will be easier for us than most communities to advantage ourselves in this changing world. We are big enough, but not too big. There are few class distinctions. "Community" is already real here. We have only to enjoy it and expand upon it. Your efforts are completely compatible with that."

"A word of caution. The community is dealing with underfunded NSHOF and Foothills. We have to be careful, in considering new initiatives, to not get out ahead of realistic funding hopes. I will work with and support you in the spirit expressed above."

We are still hoping to gather statements from Dick's competitors, Jason Corrigan and Erik Miller.

Paint your principal!

Students from Center Street, Riverside, Greater Plains, and Valleyview can vote for their principal, and the principal with the most votes will be painted by the children at Paintfest, Nov 14th, 2009.

Cast your vote here! Vote early, vote often!

Details about Paintfest: OneontaWorldOfLearning.org

State of the Kid

I found the results of this survey, which asked kids a short list of questions about their thoughts and feelings, interesting: State of the Kid.pdf.

Among children surveyed, the most common complaints, when asked what their biggest problems were, related to schoolwork (23.4%). The survey also pointed out that children really admire their friends, and seemed to stress the impact of peer groups on children. On a positive note, 72.4% of children felt they got to spend plenty of time with their parents, although older childen were a little less satisfied with the amount of time.

Some of the answers to 'what would you tell the new president' were really cute! But the quote I will share, from one of the consulting editors of Highlights magazine, directly relates to the mission of Oneonta World of Learning (enriching the lives of children and their grownups through play):

“Today’s parents and kids both describe feeling stressed. Both

need to be reminded that play and fun are very, very important.”

~ Dr. Istar Schwager

Worcester school closed, swine flu suspected

147 students (out of 410) and ten teachers were absent from Worcester school Wednesday with flu like symptoms (holy cow!). There were two confirmed cases of, you guessed it, H1N1. Looks like we may all catch it and develop a natural immunity before the vaccine becomes available locally.

The Daily Star ran a very short story on the Worcester school situation. And here is a little more in depth coverage of community preparations in general.

Climate Action Day in Morris

Here's a picture from the 350.org Climate Action Day protest in Morris NY, this morning.

See all the pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/s.baron/350OrgProtest?feat=directlink, or see pictures from protest worldwide at http://www.flickr.com/photos/350org/show/.

Many thanks to New York Central Radio Group

I have yet to thank one of our most important supporters. New York Central Radio Group provided on-air promotions of our "Science Saturday" and "Hogwarts and Hartwick" events. Until I started promoting our own events, I never realized the huge impact that friendly and supportive media outlets provide for a community.

I've heard it said that reporters and the news media 'make the news.' In another sense, they also make the community. Thanks!

When it rains it pours. Yet another thing to do this weekend. If any of you are bored it will not be my fault. I just cut and pasted this:

Second Annual Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree October 24th, 10-8

· WORLD CHAMPION PUNKIN' CHUNKIN' Demos

· PUMPKIN DISPLAY & Contest

· Pumpkin Carving area on site

· CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT by Uncle Rock

· The Pumpkin Bandits

· Papa's Little Hillbilly Express

· Delhi Fire Department

· A costume parade with prizes

· FOOD by Twee Dee Treats

Bring your pumpkin entries for mini, giant, most unique and best Jack-O-Lantern

Families and Groups are encouraged to bring carved pumpkins

or come and carve on the farm.



Help set a local record!

Farm Fun & Pumpkin Carving 10-5

Punkin' Chunkin' demos 11-3

Fireside Songs & Stories with Uncle Rock 5-6

Costume Parade 6:30

JACK O LANTERN lighting at 7pm !

Light up the night October 24th



Call 746-8866 or email us at mapleshade@hotmail.com

to find out how you can be part of the fun.



www.mapleshadefarmny.com

2066 County Hwy 18

Delhi, New York

607-746-8866

I really thought I was done. But don't Forget Main Street Oneonta's Fundraising Auction Fri at the Foothills Peforming Arts Center, Market Street, Oneonta. Preview at 5 pm; Auction begins at 5:30 pm. Details at MainStreetOneonta.com.

And one more thing: Halloween Party Oct 25th, 4-7pm, Methodist Church at 66 Chestnut St, Oneonta. Dinner provided, bring a pumpkin to carve. Games and Halloween activities, show off your costume, call 607-432-4102 for details.

I shouldn't post events before checking Facebook. Here's more:

"Things That Go Bump In The Night" tours at the Farmer's Museum begin this weekend. Details at http://ow.ly/v640.

Country Thyme Gifts Fall Fest, 247 Hawks Rd, New Berlin, NY 10am-10pm, crafts, wine tasting, BBQ, Haunted Trail after dark ($3 donation for the trail).

Weekend events: Halloween is starting early

I don't know what a grand balloon display is, but if you stop by ISD, 98 Chestnut St, in Oneonta NY on Fri Oct 23, there will be a grand balloon display in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, http://bit.ly/vc3NM.

This Saturday is Climate Action Day! In Morris NY, join locals at 17 Church St (United Methodist Church) for a walk to the fairgrounds, where there will be speeches and a group photo to be shared on the website, details: http://www.350.org/node/5562. In Oneonta, head to Muller Plaza, Main St Oneonta, at 2pm, details: http://www.350.org/node/7657. Option three, find or organize an event near you at http://www.350.org/.

Sat 24 Oct, 9:30am - 3pm, Annual Homecoming Craft Fair at SUNY Oneonta, Ravine Parkway, Oneonta NY. Info: call 607 436-3722 or email northrcj@oneonta.edu.

Sat Oct 24th, 7:30pm Catskill Choral Society Concert: Joseph Haydn's Missa Cellensis in Honorem, 66 Chestnut St. Oneonta. By the way, 66 Chestnut St is the Methodist Church with all the scaffolding on the outside. It's beautiful inside and a great venue for concerts.

Sun 25 Oct 2009 Halloween at Southside Mall, Oneonta. Spooky Story Reading followed by Trick-or-Treating. Bounce in the Bounce House. Costume Contest Registration begins at 1 pm.
2:30 Costume Contest Judging & Winners. For info: www.shopsouthsidemall.com

Sun 25 Oct at 3pm, Local Musicians perform live at Green Toad Bookstore, 198 Main St. Oneonta. Details: http://www.GreenToadBookstore.com

Sat and sun Oct 25-26, 1-4pm or by appointment, Bullthistle Model Railroad Society Inc. Museum, 33 Rexford St, Norwich, info 334-4522.

No more making fun of Oneonta and Norwich

Now, there have been drug-related arrests in Morris school, yes, in the school. Just part of a normal school day, I guess. While I'm glad the police are doing their job, I hate the necessity of it.

I just started reading Charlotte's Web to my son--yes, I know, the little pig dies. I hope it won't scar him for life. Anyway, in chapter 1, Fern's big brother Avery heads off to school with "an air rifle in one hand, a wooden dagger in the other."

Times have changed.

Drum roll...

From Jason Curley:

Thanks to all Muggles involved in the Hogwarts & Hartwick, Feast and Concert, we were able to raise, after all costs, a total of $650 for the Oneonta World of Learning in ONE EVENING.

There were so many contributors…..I am just truly grateful for the overwhelming support from Hartwick College, OWL, UMC, CVWE, and Oneonta.

This could not have succeeded without all of our positive energy and determination.

Now let’s take the momentum and this investment to bring OWL into the community!!

Peace through music,

Jason Leo Curley

Hogwarts WOW!

I have to say, I was blown away by the Hogwart's and Hartwick event tonight. So much energy and enthusiasm went into every detail. The food was good, and while the meal started a little bit late, we were entertained throughout with door prizes, the costume contest and the Hartwick professors in their Harry Potter costumes. After the feast, were were all given hand painted gift bags filled by the First United Methodist youth as well as the opportunity to pick out any of the Harry Potter books not already on the book case at home. But the concert was the best part. We made it nearly to the end before I took the boys to the nursery, in their capes and still carrying their magic wands of course. They made very little fuss about going to bed tonight!

I would really like to thank Jason Curley, of the Hartwick Music Department, for his tireless efforts in carrying off the event. Also, I thought I would reprint some of the special thanks Lisa Jo Bezner, children's ministries coordinator at First United Methodist, expressed:

She wished to thank Sy Lloyd, Kathy Wolverton, Cat Littlehale, Teressa Sivers, Ken Baldwin, Stefani Paluch, Lucille Wiggin, Evie Sessions, Lynn Domina and Kip Stratton as well as some local businesses including Knitting It All Together, Green Toad Bookstore, and Latte Lounge, and Scholastic (for donating the books).

The event benefitted FUMC Childrens Ministries and Oneonta World of Learning (OWL).

My son wants to be a kidney bean for Halloween

He's only four and I have no idea where he got the idea, but he has consistently asked to be a kidney bean for Halloween for almost a month now. Too funny! We did walk around looking at the other costumes out there. I even suggested Sponge Bob (a desperate move--I am not a fan). Well, if it's a kidney bean he wants....

My sister in law suggested making a bean shaped sandwich board out of cardboard, and covering it with a burgundy bed sheet (I suppose I can sew a little tube out of it that can go over the cardboard and bunch together at the neck and the legs). Now where to put the white dot? I'll keep you posted. I hope he likes it!

At last! The weekend:

The internet was out at our house yesterday! Needless to say, I had very little time to throw this together:

The premier event this weekend: Sat Oct 10, 2009, 11 am - 6 pm, 7-10 pm St. Mary's School Fall Family Festival, 5588 State Route 7, Oneonta, NY 13820

Of course, I will be at Wightman's Open House on Sat. The children's activity: rubber-band-powered cars. The band: Just Throw Money. .

Also Sat, noon-4pm, Jessica Dresser Family Fundraiser--Enjoy Bounce houses, music, face painting, food, games, chinese auction, 6th. Ward Booster Club, Scrambling Ave, Oneonta. Raindate: 10/17/09 For info: 432-6084 aferguson@stny.rr.com.

Interesting: Hanford Mills Museum Workshop: Intro to woodlot management, County Route 12, East Meredith, NY 13757, 10am - noon, Oct 10.

YUMMY: Waffles & Puppets at Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Hwy 33, Cooperstown, info (800) 544 1809, Oct 10, noon - 5 pm

1pm Sat: Train robbery! http://www.lrhs.com/

Sunday Brunch at Fable, 1211 Kelso Road, East Meredith , NY 13757, Info: 607-278-5800 Sponsor: Stone & Thistle Farm.

If you're going to be driving about looking at the fall foilage anyway: Fall Festival Craft Show! Oct 10th and 11th (10am-4pm)Free addmission, At Maple Ski Ridge (got this from Twitter!)

Sun Oct 11, 1 - 10 pm FIDDLERS! 16 An annual autumn tradition in the Catskills. A full day of great fiddling acts, jam session, square dance, food, fun and friends. Featuring April Verch; Kevin Burke & Cal Scott; Jackie Hobbs; and Hilt Kelly and the Sidekicks. This year will also feature a fine crafts fair courtesy of the Catskill Artisan's Guild.

Thank you OneontaOnTheMap.com for making this easy (easier)!

Looking ahead:

Wed Oct 4, 10 am La Leche League breast-feeding information group, Oneonta's First United Methodist Church, corner of Chestnut and Church streets. For info: Kate Seeley, 432-5984.

Next weekend:

Science Saturdays return with "Biology and DNA Testing!" Activities for ages 2 and up, workshops for ages 5-13 Details and registration at Oneonta.edu/academics/sdc/

Hartwick and Hogwarts: 4-7pm, Sat,Oct 17. The dinner starts with sorting the guests into their 'houses' at 4pm, followed by concert at 6pm. Hartwick faculty will be dressed in Harry Potter costumes. (I'll get the link to you as soon as I get the poster posted--again, the internet was down last night.)

Fun at the Pit run

After the Fun Run, kids at the Pit Run today had the opportunity to explore inclined planes and the effects of surface friction and rotation when Oneonta World of Learning unveiled another simple exhibit, this one featuring various race tracks. Our craft was a good one for a rainy day (next week will probably present a great rainy day opportunity!):

Cereal Box Marble Race Track:

You will need one cereal box, one marble, three toilet paper tubes, tape (packing tape works well) and scissors.

1. Cut the front off of a cereal box.
2. Take each of the tp tubes and notch out the top of one end.
3. Tape the first tp tube near the top of the box, at an angle, so that a marble can be dropped in through the notch at one end and will roll out the other end.
4. Help your child figure out where to position the next tp tube, so that the marble will fall into it and roll further along.
5. Place the third tp tube below the second, completing the race track.
6. We also cut a hole at the top of the box, so that the marble could be dropped through the top of the box into the track.
7. My son insisted we put a cover over the front so he can open and close his race track.
8. An optional fourth tp tube, cut in half, made a good tray at the bottom to catch the marble at the end. Another option would be to leave a little lip at the bottom of the box so that the marbles don't roll right out.

The Pit Run is a great event for runners of all abilities, whether you are working on your personal best time or a professionally best time, you'll find other runners in your general skill level. If you missed out this year, be sure to put it on the calendar for next year: PitRun.org.

My only remaining dilemma: how to get this OWL tattoo off my cheek before work tomorrow (what was I thinking? It was the boys' idea.)

Another week gone by

I can't believe another week has gone by. I hope to catch up on some sleep this weekend and make a decision whether or not to give my son the swine flu vaccine. But I will make it to the Pitt Run Sunday!

Fri-Sun, the Green Toad Bookstore is having a "Move it or Lose it Sale", 198 Main St, Oneonta. I suppose that's almost an add, but I love bookstores!

Sat Oct 3, The Oneonta Farmers Market presents Beer & Blues Customer Appreciation Day, music and free samplings of potato beer soup, 9am-2pm, Muller Plaza, Main St. Oneonta.

Also Sat, The Catskill Symphony Orchestra presents "Live Music: Russo Returns!" at the SUNY Oneonta Hunt Union Ballroom, Oneonta, NY. Info 607 436-2670, http://www.CatskillSymphony.net, 8pm

The Pitt Run is Sunday Oct 11th, (which is sponsored in part by my new employer, NYCM Insurance, btw). Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) has been invited to provide children's activities during the event, once again. The kids can all participate in the children's races and then build marble race tracks with us. (If you think of it, grab those extra tp and paper towel rolls, and empty cereal boxes for us). The event is from 9am-noon. The children's activities are free. Details at http://pitrun.org/

That's it!

Looking ahead:

The Science Discovery Center and Oneonta World of Learning present "Biology and DNA Testing!" Activities for ages 2 and up, workshops for ages 5-13 Details and registration at http://www.oneonta.edu/academics/sdc/

Hogwarts & Hartwick!

Hartwick College Music Department and the UMC Children’s Ministries are producing a feast and concert entitled Hogwarts & Hartwick! Dress up as a Harry Potter character and bring your family to the First United Methodist Church on Saturday October 17th, 2009.

The festivities begin at 4pm with sorting the guests into their Hogwarts "houses." The feast follows in the Dining Hall at 4:30. The Magical Music Concert will be from 6 to 7pm in the Sanctuary.

Hartwick professors will be dressed as Hogwarts professors, and there will be door prizes, costume contest prizes and special guests. Music will be presented by the Catskill Valley and Hartwick College Wind Ensembles together!

Tickets for the feast are $8 for youths (aged 16 and under) and $10 for the young at heart (over 16). The concert is free and all are welcome to attend. Donations collected during the concert will benefit Oneonta World of Learning (OWL), a children's museum coming soon to Oneonta NY.

Menu: Chicken Tenders, Drumsticks, Corn, Broccoli, Dinner Rolls, Pumpkin Pie Bars with Whipped Cream, Apples Cider and Water.

For reservations, email the Hartwick Music Department at clarkl@hartwick.edu or call 607-431-4800.


The First United Methodist Church (FUMC) is located at 66 Chestnut St, Oneonta, NY and can be contacted at (607) 432-4102.

Children's, Infant's Tylenol recall

The list of recalled Tylenol products is here: http://www.tylenol.com/ I actually tossed all of mine, not because they were recalled, but because they were past their expiration dates. The kids haven't been sick all summer!

TGIF

Friday Sept 25th, the Oneonta concert series kicks off with some classical music at 8pm (be early) at the First United Methodist church in Oneonta. Details are here. I should add (from experience) that quiet children are more than welcome, noisy children less so, at these events. Yeah.

Sat and Sun Sept 26-27 from 1-4pm, the Bullthistle Model Railroad Society Inc. Museum (33 Rexford Street in Norwich) will be open. Also open by appointment, call 334-4522.

The Springbrook Rubber Duck Derby & Family Fest is Sat Sept 26th at Fortin Park, Oneonta (across the the Interstate from Price Chopper's), 10am-4pm. Adopt a "duck" and get in on the fun. Music, games, food and $1000 to the first prize winner!

Stamford’s Annual Scarecrow Festival is Sunday September 27th, 2009, 10 am to 4 pm in downtown Stamford, Rain Date Sunday October 4, 2009.

Also Sat, stop by the Oneonta Farmer's Market for the harvest festival from 9am-2pm.

The Oktoberfest train, sponsered by the Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad departs the Milford Train Depot on Sat.

Sat 8pm in Oxford, NY there will be a bluegrass concert. Details are here.

Sat at 4pm, Charlotte Blake Alston performs at the Earlville Opera House.

Sunday, September 27th: MURAL & RAG To Co-Sponsor at ART EXHIBIT & YOUTH ART LESSONS.

Looking ahead:

Still hoping for more donations of paper towel tubes, toilet paper tubes and cereal boxes for racing and marble track crafts during the Pit Run, Sunday, October 4th. Maybe we can arrange a drop off location in Oneonta, closer to the event.

Be sure to visit the Hanford Mills Museum before it closes for the season. They are really just outside of town, and as a working, historic farm, they offer a lot of hands on experiences. You have until Oct. 15th.

2-D Sesame art contest

In honor of Sesame Street's upcoming 40th birthday, WSKG is presenting 2-D SESAME, an art contest for our community. Children and youth ages 3-17 are invited to create a 2-Dimensional work of art that portrays their favorite Sesame Street character(s). Visit www.wskg.org/teach-and-learn/sesame-40.aspx to download contest flyer, entry form, and rules.

Pitt Run activities planned

For the second year in a row, it will be our honor to present children's activities during the Pitt Run and community picnic. Festivities will be held on Sunday, October 4th from 9 am until noon in Neawah Park. OWL has chosen a racing theme, with opportunities for kids of all ages (infant and up) to create marble and race tracks. We'll also be showing off our new inclined plane race tracks, excellent for racing different objects to see which ones go faster. The activities are free and open to the public. I really hope you'll join us. The Pitt Run has to be one of the most professionally presented events in our area.

We're collecting paper towel and toilet paper tubes as well as empty cereal boxes to use for construction materials, so please save a few for us between now and then!

NFL Punt Pass & Kick (and more) this weekend!

NFL Punt Pass & Kick is this Saturday in Neahwa Park, 11am-1pm! Details are on the City of Oneonta Parks and Rec Facebook page.

Sat 19 Sep 9am-2pm The Oneonta Farmer's Market adopts the theme, 'Breakfast at the Market' (sounds yummy).

Skate Jam 2009 Skateboard Competition is in Neahwa Park Sat from 10am-4pm. Sponsored by the Teen Center.

Head to Milford on Sat for the 9th Annual Susquehanna Valley Garlic Festival.

While in the vicinity, catch the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad and experience and old fashioned train robbery!

Also Sat, live music to benefit the Oneonta Teen Center & The Oneonta Theatre: The Wine Cellar, The Stamp Collectors, The Gambler, Nun & Radio 8pm at the Oneonta Theatre.

The High School Hall of Fame Cup is Sat and Sun at the Soccer Hall.

Auditions for the Little Delaware Youth Ensemble are Sunday at 1pm.
Looking ahead:

Sunday, September 27th: MURAL & RAG To Co-Sponsor ART EXHIBIT & YOUTH ART LESSONS Details available from the Roxbury Arts Group.

Sunday, October 4th OWL will be providing activities for kids at the Pit Run and community picnic from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in Neawah Park. The theme for the day is racing and will feature activities such as building and creating a wide variety of marble and race tracks appropriate for ages infant and up. The activities are free and open to the public. SAVE YOUR TP & PAPER TOWEL TUBES FOR US! We're also going to need some empty cereal boxes.

Do check out the article in the Daily Star about Hanford Mills Museum's delightful fall workshops: timber frame building, handquilting & intro to woodlot and wildlife management.

Oneonta Taekwon-do has some great fall offerings as well (and I hear good things about their programming).

Also consider your local library. They offer so much more than just story time, and most of the events are listed in one handy spot on the web!

Weekend

I apologize for a shorter than usual post this weekend! You might try The Daily Star's redesigned event calendar for more: Events.

Colorscape Arts festival is in Norwich this weekend, Sept 12-13. www.colorscape.org--tons of free entertainment!

Utica Music and Arts fest runs Sept 10-12, see www.UticaMusicandArtsFest.com for details.

The Walton Family Readiness Group cabaret performs Friday at 6pm, at the Walton Armory 55 South

'Self Stories' exhibit opens Fri Sept 11, 7pm at the Main View Gallery, 73 Main St. Oneonta.

The Bullthistle Model Railroad Museum will be open Sat and Sun at 1pm, 33 Rexford St, Norwich NY.

Have fun this weekend

Sat & Sun Sep 5-6: The balloon festival in Neahwa Park is Saturday and Sunday. Details are in The Daily Star, but basically, weather permitting, the balloons take off around 6:30am and again in the evening around 6pm, with really nothing going in between. At 8pm Saturday night the balloons will inflate and light up while remaining tied to the ground.

Fri through Sun, Sep 4-6: The Franklin Stage's presentation of American Fairy Tales continues (probably not for the youngest kids in the family).

Fri & Sat, Sep 4-5: the Summer Music '09 Millennium Strings 17th Festival of Classical Music presents concerts both nights at 7:30pm. Location is 19 Marion Ave, Gilbertsville, NY. Thank you OneontaOnTheMap.com for posting this one!!!

Fri Sep 4th: River Fest is from 3-6pm in Sidney. The event will take place at Whitaker's Lot next to the Sidney Bridge and will feature children's activities, live music and more.

Sat Sep 5th: Roxbury showcases a fireworks and community-wide party http://ow.ly/krM2.

Sun Sept 6th: The Oneonta Nursery School will host a Hands-On Family Craft Afternoon from 2 to 4 pm on Sunday. Hands-on activities for children ages 2 to 8 will be featured. This event is free and open to the public. Parents will need to accompany their children. The school is at 71 Chestnut St. in the First Baptist Church. Parking and the school entrance can be accessed on Academy Street.

Sunday from 1-4pm is the Garrattsville Fire Department annual chicken barbecue at the fire hall in Garrattsville; featuring craft vendors, DJ, bounce house, baker's auction and more.

Looking ahead:

10am Wed Sep 9th La Leche League breast-feeding information group meets at the First United Methodist Church, corner of Chestnut and Church streets, Oneonta. For info call Kate at 432-5984.

Get ready for the Farmers Museum Harvest Festival, this year with alpacas, September 12 & 13 in Cooperstown.

Workshops:

DALCROZE MUSIC & MOVEMENT: Active, Interactive Music Classes for Children with Susan Miller will be held at the Unitarian Church, Oneonta starting September 11 & 12. Friday age 1-4 from 11:15 - 11:45 (Ten Weeks $70). Saturday age 1-4 11:45 - 12:15 (Six Weeks $42). Saturday age 5 - 7 10:45 - 11:30 (Six Weeks $60) Call or email to register at 286-7935 or zahira@localnet.com

Local websites:

Angelfood orders can now be placed online at http://www.angelfoodministries.com/host.asp?id=11766. Angelfood Ministries is located at 12 Grove Street, Oneonta, NY. Their number is 607-432- 2031.

And (ta-dum): Oneonta is on Craigslist! http://oneonta.craigslist.org/

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Balloon fest this weekend at Neahwa Park

We can see the balloons from the ball field. The Tigers play thier last game tonight.

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Astrocast for September!

Tavi Graneir makes star watching easy with her September Astrocast, it's the best I've seen. Honestly, anyone and everyone can go outside this month and see the wonders of the heavens--even the moons of Jupiter! Enjoy.

Self Stories

The Arc Otsego’s Main View Gallery will open its Fall exhibit with a reception on September 11 from 5-7 pm. I hope we'll get a sneak preview at the OWL meeting tomorrow night! So fun to meet in such a wonderfully creative space.


The exhibit will run September 11-December 1, 2009 at the Main View Gallery & Studio, 73 Main St. Oneonta, NY. Featuring work by artists at The Arc Otsego’s Center for Self Expression, Self Stories explores the concept of personal image through self-portraits and a series of large paintings that chronicle each artist’s journey through life. Visit www.mainviewgallery.org or call 607-432-1890 for more info.

Art In August (last chance)

The Fenimore Art Musuem's last Art in August program is this Saturday from 3-4pm. Cost is $5 (free for members). This program is for children ages 4-8. http://tinyurl.com/m4edr2

Last minute weekend post

I stayed up last night and watched The Producers and forgot all about the weekend blog post until the morning. Here goes:

Tonight, 7-8:30 pm Raptor Program, Lake View Room, Glimmerglass State Park, followed by free movie, info 547-8662

Orpheus Theatre's Starstruck Theatre Troupe will perform at Old Franklin Days in Franklin - Saturday the 29th at 11am, presenting a 1/2 hour performance from Seussical Jr.

Also Sat, 10 am Rexford Falls Gorge outing, Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Route 80, Sherberne. Info: 674-4017, ext. 623.

Sat Aug. 29 from 9:00 until 12:00 the Worcester Free Library is having a Summer Market (Sale of vegetables, canned items and baked goods). With performance by Skip West at 1pm.

Saturday the Roxbury Arts Group presents a night of African music http://roxburyartsgroup.org/link_pages/event_calendar.htm

Summer Sunday: Old Trolleys of Oneonta at the Swart-Wilcox House, Wilcox Avenue off River Street; house open, 1 to 3 p.m.; program, 1:30. For info: 432-0665 or 432-8417.

There aren't many Tigers games left in the season! www.OneontaTigers.com

It's also a great idea to get out to Hanford Mills http://www.hanfordmills.org/ and to the Farmer's Museum http://www.farmersmuseum.org/ before the end of summer. Fun for the whole family.

Looking ahead:

Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)--that's us!!!--is meeting on 1 Aug 2009 (the first Tues of the month) at 7pm, Main View gallery, Oneonta NY. Open to the public as always! Info: call Andrea 433-0160.

Alpacas are running toward this year's Harvest Festival at the Farmer's Museum, September 12 & 13 in Cooperstown. Pic: http://twitpic.com/f9927

Coming up in Roxbury: fireworks and community-wide party Saturday Sept. 5 http://ow.ly/krM2

Mercury study released

Fishing is a great way to get kids outside and exploring, but think before you fry up that fish you just caught. A government study has recently confirmed that mercury contamination is widespread. From the article:

"The main source of mercury to most of the streams tested ... is emissions from coal-fired power plants."

"All but two states — Alaska and Wyoming — have issued fish-consumption advisories because of mercury contamination."

NY State has issued warnings about fish caught in Adirondack and Catskill streams (scroll down for advice on which fish to avoid altogether and which to eat in moderation): water body specific warnings.

Women, infants and children shouldn't eat ANY fish caught in certain waters: Off limits. Why women and children in particular?

"...chemicals may have a greater effect on developing organs in young children or in the unborn child. They also build up in women's bodies and are often passed on in mother's milk." --NY DEC

Wondering just how mercury contamination happens? Check out the mercury cycle.

Ahhh, the weekend

The Delaware County Fair runs through Sat August 22 http://www.delawarecountyfair.org/

Aug 21-23, Fri-Sun: Water Festival http://tinyurl.com/o3lt3j

Sounds really cool: Friday, August 21st, 1 pm: ARM OF THE SEA presents, "Henry Hudson and the River that Discovered Him," recreating Hudson's voyage through mask and puppet theater. Fun for the whole family! FREE. Vega Mt. Rd., Roxbury.

The Oneonta Tigers are back home Friday only http://www.OneontaTigers.com

Sat Aug 22 10am-3pm Greater Oneonta Historical Society local history scavenger hunt for children and adults. Pick up forms at History Center, 183 Main St. Oneonta. Prizes awarded.

Sat 8pm Star-gazing event, Lake View Room, Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown, with The Mohawk Valley Astronomical Society. For info: 547-8662.

Sat 9am OCCA nature walk: Bear Swamp. Meet at Country Kitchen, state routes 165 and 166, Roseboom. For info: 547-4488.

Sat 2-4pm Schoharie Land Trust outing: Conservation Treasure Hunt, SkyHill Homestead, 184 Bush St., Seward. For info: (518) 234-1942.

First Round of Auditions for both PAL JOEY and THE PRODUCERS, with Orpheus Theatre is Sat. Info http://www.orpheustheatre.org/auditions.htm

Sat 2pm 'Murder mystery' rail ride, Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad, state Route 166, East Main Street, Milford. For info, reservations: 432-2429.

Stallions Footbal Sat 5pm, Fortin Park (vs NJ Wolves) http://www.nystallions.com/Home_Page.html

Looking ahead:

Mon 24 Aug, 7pm FREE Foothills Live Music: The United States Air Force Bay State Winds in concert, 24 Market St. Oneonta, info: http://www.foothillspac.org/events1.html

10am Tues Aug 25, Summertime Arts, Education and Just Plain Fun program: Silent Tales, Franklin Free Library, 334 Main St., Franklin.

Wed 26 Aug 2:30-4:30pm Car-seat fitting station Delaware Opportunities, state Route 10, Walton. For info, appointment: 746-1700.

Workshops:

August 17 - 21. 9:30 - 3 NATURE AND ART FOR KIDS five day program (kayaking, crafts, puppets, naturalists) Info: http://roxburyartsgroup.org/link_pages/event_calendar.htm

Glen Brook Farm Summer Workshops: Check out the schedule at http://oneontaonthemap.com/.

"Club 24" Children's Summer Workshops (next week 'children's comics') For info: 431-2080 www.foothillspac.org/events.htm

Gardening with my kids

My husband and I had meant to just plant some mums in our back yard flower box. After all, you can't really go wrong with mums. But my oldest insisted on bringing home three lettuce plants, too. So I bought two basil plants, since they looked very healthy. Now, in amongst the mums, we have some nice lettuces and some basil growing. (The bean plant that he brought home from preschool in a little cup was long ago eaten by something, probably a hedge hog, whom I believe to have taken up a residence under our deck.)

My preschooler was so excited to pick lettuce tonight for a tossed salad, that he pulled up half of one of the plants! Meanwhile, his little brother thought it would be a good idea to help out the hedge hogs by digging a hole for them in the flower box. After the excitement of picking lettuce we headed over to the straggly looking tomato plants along the fence (the one vegetable I plant every year) and were able to get just a few tomatoes. (I'm not much of a gardener, but this time I think it was the tomato blight that has hit Upstate New York).

Anyway, at dinner my preschooler dished up a huge salad for himself, covered it in ranch dressing and ate it all! That made it all worth it.Enjoying the simple things. I guess that's what gardening is about.

I found the Kids Gardening website interesting: kidsgardening.com. Through The National Gardening Association, they promote gardening as an aspect of education and provide grants for youth and community gardens.

The weekend is here

Thurs thru Sat from now until Sept 6th: American Fairy Tales at the Franklin Stage is a performance recommended for adults and children over 8 years old http://franklinstagecompany.org/2009prod.html

Leatherstocking Sheepdog Trials run Friday through Sunday in Cooperstown on Beaver Meadow Road. For info: 293-8385.

The Chenango County Fair in Norwich continues through Sunday http://chenangocountyfair.homestead.com/

Sat and Sun 1-4pm 1-4pm Sat Bullthistle Model Railroad Society Inc. Museum, 33 Rexford St. Norwich; or by appointment. For info: 334-4522 or 336-5951.

Sat Aug 15th:

Sat 9am-3pm Fifth annual West End Garage Sales on Oneonta's West End, For info: 432-4926.

"Club 24" Children's Summer Workshops this month, Tuesdays-Fridays Ages 4-7, at the Foothills Performing Arts Center. For info: 431-2080 www.foothillspac.org/events.htm

Sat 8:30am-noon Paddle Beaver Creek in Sherburne at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Route 80; $5 per paddler. For info, registration: 674-4017.

1pm Sat 'Train robbery' rail ride with the Cooeprstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad depot, state Route 166. For info: 432-2429.

Sun Aug 16:

Sun from noon to 5pm is the Inaugural Cooperstown Railroad Festival on Railroad Avenue in Cooperstown; featuring live music, food, local vendors, rail tours and more. For info: 432-2429.

1:30pm Sun Summer Sundays: 'Old Oneonta Schools' at the Swart-Wilcox House, Wilcox Avenue off River Street, Oneonta; house open from 1 to 3 p.m. For info: 432-0665.

1-4pm Sun Beekeeping program at the Old Middlefield Schoolhouse, county Highway 35; presented by Middlefield Historical Association. Free, open to the public.

Sun 3-3:30pm Explore the Catskill Wild Side Plant Walk at the Harmony Hill Retreat Center, East Meredith. Free, open to the public; for info, RSVP: 278-6609.

4pm Sun Potluck community picnic in East Meredith at the West Kortright Centre; free, open to the public. For info: 278-5454.

Looking Ahead:

Tues Aug 18th Weekly outing of the Susquehanna Chapter, Adirondack Mountain Club. Walk, hike, bike or canoe; hours subject to change. For info: 286-9126.

Tues 10am Summertime Arts, Education and Just Plain Fun: Irish Music Delights, Franklin Free Library, 334 Main St. Franklin.

Tues 10am-2:30pm Glen Brook Farm Summer Workshop: Pond and Waterways, for ages 7 & up. A conservation leader will guide students beginning in a canoe observing, insects, amphibians and plant life. 142 Glen Drive, Oneonta For info: 433-0932

Interesting blog: Hop picking at The Farmer's Museum http://thefarmersmuseum.blogspot.com/2009/08/hop-picking.html

Thursday nite events

Tomorrow brings the last of the summer music series in Neahwa Park. As always, bring a lawn chair and blanket. Show time is at 7pm at the stage shell or under the large pavilion when it rains. Blues Maneuver will be playing.

Alternatively, the Morris Farmer's Market is hosting a harvest festival tomorrow night! Should be a lot of fun. There will be some very talented young musicians playing.

The debate in Neahwa Park

The current debate raging around planned changes to Neahwa Park really demonstrates the role a great park plays in the life of a community. You will find that people who grew up in Oneonta but have long since moved away are still passionate about 'their park.'

I thought I would post part of an email I received tonight from a friend who met with the mayor and other concerned citizens tonight to discuss the issue:

"I spent an hour and a half of my evening in Neahwa Park listening to the great debate of 'trees verses Veterans'. For those of you that were not aware that such a debate was afoot in the city of the hills let me fill you in. The Veteran's Memorial Walk is planned to transform War Memorial Drive from a vehicular roadway into a Memorial Walkway. The new pedestrian promenade will give prominence to the host of historical markers and memorials that surround Hodges Pond. The project will include improvements to existing memorials, the planting of trees, construction of a gazebo, expansion of parking areas, and new paved and brick walkways along the south side of the pond. In the process of this planned transformation about twenty or so trees would meet their demise. This has angered a lot of citizens, who spoke out tonight, which in turn angered many of the assembled Veterans, who felt the opponents did not see the great sacrifice that Veterans have made. And so the banter continued back and forth, with one very memorable elderly woman asking the Mayor 'what’s wrong with the way it is now?' One thing is for sure, it was a discussion from many different points of view."

"As I listened to both sides, it occurred to me that I was not viewing this from either side (tree friend or veteran). Although I am a twenty-year veteran of the US Navy, I was looking at the fiscal responsibility of the city government. Don't we have existing infrastructure or facilities in the park that nearly four hundred thousand dollars might be better spent on?"

Think about the happiest memories of your childhood. Do they center around a specific place? If you had to choose, which places would you preserve for the next generation and would you change them in any way? Importantly, do you feel there are enough such spaces today?

#49 Model Effective Conflict Resolution

Conflict among children is unavoidable. Adults can't always avoid conflict, for that matter. So it makes sense to arm your children with ways to help resolve conflict when it occurs.

Tip #49 from "Raising Confident Boys, 100 Tips for Parents and Teachers" by Elizabeth Hartley-Brewer, suggests that adults should 'model effective conflict resolution.' One idea is to demonstrate good communication skills, by using only "I" statements when presenting your case and avoiding "You" statements, which can be accusative. Another is to accept that "You don't need to win every battle."

I like this book because in two pages I've covered a complete section, so I can catch up on my parenting skills without spending a lot of time!

Two more things--

Hanford Mills is offering 2 hands-on workshops this weekend (hand dovetailing & digital photography). Their Riddle Me This exhibit opens Sunday. Details www.hanfordmills.org

The Fenimore Art Museum: Kids under 12 free on Saturday, August 8 for A Taste of the Sublime. There will be family activiites on the lawn. www.fenimoreartmuseum.org

The weekend! Thank goodness!

The Otsego County Fair in Morris NY runs through this Sun. The kangaroo at the zoo has a baby joey in her pouch! Sun 12-5pm is one price rides. Visit otsegocountyfair.org for details.

The Schoharie County Sunshine Fair in Cobleskill runs through Sat. Visit cobleskillfair.com

Fri and Sat: Relay For Life Of Oneonta at Fortin Park; survivor lap Fri 6 p.m., followed by dinner and reception; Fight Back ceremony, 8 p.m.; luminaria ceremony, 10 p.m. Fun for the whole family on Sat. Email lisamarielamb@hotmail.com for details.

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Fri 7 Aug, 8:30pm Friday Fun Night outdoor movie in Cooperstown at the Glimmerglass State Park; featuring safety presentation by Safe Kids of Otsego County at 8 p.m. Info: 547-8662

7:05pm Fri Tigers vs. Staten Island. Free books, live band before the game, and Scout Night: troops register for package deals to the game. OneontaTigers.com

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Sat 8 Aug 10am-2pm is Kids' Day at the Oneonta Farmers' Market, Muller Plaza, Main Street; with live music, stories and performances. For info: 437-0158.

Sat: Open Water Swim at Gilbert Lake. Call 432-0010 for details.

Sat 10am is Explore the Summit Trail at Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Route 80, Sherburne. For info: 674-4017.

Sat 2pm-3:30pm Search for the Arthropod Squad at Landis Arboretum, Lape Road, Esperance. For info: (518) 875-6935.

7:05pm Sat Tigers vs. Staten Island. Fans who donate clothing receive old Oneonta Yankees memorabilia. OneontaTigers.com

Flat Creek, Schenevus, and Maryland NY are all having 'lawn sale' days Sat.

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Sun 9 Aug the Swart-Wilcox Summer Sundays: 'Goin' to Pot' at the Swart Wilcox House, Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta; visit 1 - 3 p.m.; program at 1:30 p.m. with potter Ellie Stromberg. Free. For info: 432-0665 or 432-8417.

6pm Sun Tigers vs. Staten Island. Bring your dog to the game. OneontaTigers.com

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Looking ahead:

Glen Brook Farm is offering Art Farm workshops with Cynthia Marsh next week. Call 432-0932 for details.

Tues 11 Aug at 10am the Summertime Arts, Education and Just Plain Fun program continues with Strings the Thing at the Franklin Free Library, 334 Main St.

Wed 12 Aug 10am La Leche League breast-feeding information group meets in Oneonta at the First United Methodist Church, corner of Chestnut and Church streets. Call Kate at 432-5984 for info.

Wed 6:30pm Magic by Michael at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, 8 River St, Sidney. For info: 563-1200.

Nature and Art Kids program with The Roxbury Arts Group August 17 - 21st, from 9:30 am - 3 pm. 5 day program for children ages 8 to 12 includes a kayaking trip, water relay, crafts, puppet show. Info: http://www.roxburyartsgroup.org/link_pages/event_calendar.htm

Concert in the Park

There was a great crowd at the concert tonight. Just Throw Money performed. Next week, Blues Maneuver will close out the summer series in Neahwa Park.

Kid-centered intro to chamber music

The Daedalus Quartet offers a kid-centered intro to chamber music. As resident ensemble of the Lincoln Center Institute, the Daedalus Quartet has performed for thousands of school children.

Family Music Fest with the Daedalus Quartet is scheduled for Monday, August 10th at 11 am at Templeton Hall, 63 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown. Hands-on crafts and fun begin at 10:30 am. An instrument petting zoo follows the performance. Tickets are $5 per person or $15 per family. Contact 877-666-7421, visit www.CooperstownMusicFest.org, or purchase tickets at the door.This performance is brought to you courtesy of John Keal Music Co. and is part of the Cooperstown Chamber Music Festival.

Book recommendation

A MySpace friend just recommended the book, I can be: A Child's Whimsical Introduction to Yoga, by Christine Summer and Kirk Salopek. She writes:

"My son is 2.5 ish and I thought, well, he probably won't be interested [in yoga]. But he picks up the book to read/do frequently. He does the tree, the cat, not exactly but in the ball park :) So here is one testimony that preschooler's dig yoga. He also likes looking at the pictures of the animals in the book--so I would recommend a bright, colorful yoga book."

I love her signature line: "Love and Light."

Great weather for City of the Hills

From Aaron, who set up the OWL booth at the City of the Hills festival this weekend:

"Today went well!! I would estimate that we had about 50 children visit the booth. Thanks to Heather and Marjorie for your help and a special thanks to Ariann who really made sure everything went smoothly."

Our monthly planning meeting is this Tuesday! The executive board is meeting at 6:30pm followed by a general meeting at 7pm, which is open to everyone.

I'm so sorry not to have posted the free Taekwon-do demo earlier! It was tonight. They have a great website: www.OneontaTKD.com.

There are a lot of events this weekend:

Ommegang Brewery: Belgium Comes to Cooperstown 2009, starting at noon on Fri, continuing all day Sat. Details: www.Ommegang.com

Voice! An annual juried art exhibition celebrating the creative voices of artists with developmental disabilities from across New York State opens Fri at UCCCA, 11 Ford Av Oneonta. Details: www.arcotsego.org

7-9pm Fri July 31 Voice 5th Anniversary Celebration Dance, Flame performs over 100 classic hits and they are changing the way the public views people with disabilities. Asa Allison Municipal Bldg. 4 Academy St. Oneonta, www.arcotsego.org

Fri 10:30-am-noon Explore: Your Backyard children's activity at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, state rt 80, Sherburne, call 674-4017.

2pm Fri: Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors at the Schoharie Free Library (lawn).

Oneonta Tigers vs Tri-City Fri 7:05pm Fri.

Friday's Glimmerglass State Park outdoor movie is 'Enchanted.' 8:30pm. Info: 547-8662.

Sat Aug 1: City of the Hills festival, Main St Oneonta: the work of 50 artists and fine crafters, live musical performances, artist demonstrations and art workshops for children and families. For info: 432-2070 www.uccca.com/index.htm Look for an OWL booth!

Also Sat, 2-4pm, Soccer Hall of Fame: Shannon MacMillan Soccer Clinic, $10, open to kids of all ages.

11am Sat: Dragonflies program at the Rogers Environmental Ed Center, info 674-4017.

And not to be missed on Sat is the 52nd Annual Youth Fishing Derby. Free fishing competition for children ages 5-15. Pre-registration is recommended and will take place at the Recreation Office during normal business hours throughout the month of July. Children will need their own fishing equipment and a clean bucket to bring fish in for weighing. Fishing demonstrations and clinics, as well as event day registration will be held from 3pm until 4pm. The competition will take place from 4pm-5pm with an award ceremony to follow. See you at Hodges Pond in Neahwa Park, Oneonta!

5pm Sat Semi-Pro Football: NY Stallions vs. N.J. Spartans, free admission, Fortin Park.

1-3pm Sat brings 'Dragonflies and Damselflies,' a program at the Landis Arboretum. Info: 518-875-6935.

Sun Aug 2nd is the Soccer Hall of Fame Induction, details: www.soccerhall.org

Sun 6pm, Tigers vs Tri-City. Look for 'Oneonta Tigers' on Facebook.

Looking ahead:

Mon Aug 3rd, 9:30-11:30am: On the Farm Workshop, Glen Brook Farm, info 432-0932.

Tues Aug 2nd, 7pm, Live Music at the Oneonta Teen Center, info 433-2009

Wed Aug 5th, 1-3pm Horseless Carriages Visit, Main St Oneonta. Pre-1915 autos on display. Info 432-0960.

Also next Wed, Felted animals workshop with Adrienne Martini at Glen Brook Farm, Info 432-0932.

Next Thurs Aug 6th: Just Throw Money free, live and in concert at Neahwa park!

Or choose the free Flute Fest at the Otesaga In Cooperstown at 7:30pm next Thurs (part of the Cooperstown Chamber Music Festival. www.cooperstownmusicfest.org