Prattsville Scoop

By Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Thank you to our active military and our veterans. You gave us an opportunity to rejoice and celebrate our freedoms. Heard the 4th of July Parades in Windham and Tannersville were something to be viewed. Windham’s parade was on July 4th and Tannersville’s was on July 6 so you could have attended both.

There will be no Prattsville Scoop column for July 19.

Steve and Liza Birnbaum stopped by with a super supply of snack candies for our hospitalized veterans. Thank you on behalf of our veterans. Lisa’s father was career military so she has an understanding and appreciation of our veterans. Steve continues to move the earth around their home and his improvements are something to be proud of. Their Sundays, after church, is filled with some side trips that make memories for their distant golden ages. Thanks again Lisa and Steve.

Last week we asked you to send some get well cards to Albie Van Etten and we are sorry to let you know that Albie lost his battle with health issues. But rest assured that your cards and notes to Albie will now bring comfort to his family. Our Nancy Olsen is Albie’s sister and we send her our condolences.

The Faro family yard sale on Route 23, Grand Gorge was a treasure hunter’s dream. It was a time for Stan Thorington to pick up an oil lamp similar to the one that sat on his family’s kitchen table when he was young and he also said they had the hand pump to bring water into the kitchen. Stan, by his own admission, said he is in his early 80’s and these are good memories for him. Carl Rappleyea, Bev (our favorite mixologist), and other were looking for that treasure. By mid-morning people were loading up their vans with stacks and boxes and more of their found treasures. You could furnish a whole house with items for sale. Did find out that one of six Faro sisters, Linda?, was at one time a curator of a material or quilt museum in Kentucky. How is that for talent? Have knowledge of Hancock Fabrics of Paducah Kentucky and know they have a top notch selection of fabrics for quilting.

The Trivia Night, Wednesdays, at the Prattsville Tavern has participants with a lot of knowledge and talent taking part in the fun games. This is done under the auspices of Matt and Melinda Peters. Matt is the forager for the facts for the categories and Melissa is the MC. There are some dark horse participants who are wowing the crowd with their knowledge in all categories. Sounds like a good way to spend a Wednesday evening. Plus there are prizes of value.

Bobby Goff stopped by for a visit and to say he is happy with his hay crop. He said although the cutting was a little delayed and the tops of the hay seemed to be somewhat dry, the grass below that was green and lush and continued to grow supplying lots of top notch eating for some thoroughbreds on Long Island. Bobby is a good businessman and he coordinates his cutting with the arrival of trucks from the ultimate buyer so it is cut and ted, bail and load in one organized procedure. He also continues to build “spec” houses for the multitude of people moving into our area and looking to own their own home. Good to talk to you Bobby.

Michala Briggs is again the front person at RSK Farm Stand. She said she is glad to be at work, and that is good to hear, local girl helping local business. Stop by for a chance to get those superb vegetables. It is amazing what a few days of rain will do for the growth of vegetable plants and a goodly\\ supply of the vegetables.

Adam Brainard, son of Elliott and Shelly, was in the area on Sunday. He stops on a regular basis to take of the major lawn mowing for his parents, as in his father. His wife Kelly was home dong some major clean up because they just got a new supply of chickens. Chickens now number 12 and ducts are at 20, plus two dogs and a hairless cat, to name a few. Well, to each his own. Adam and Kelly have a mini farm and the category and number of animals vary from month to month.

Lots of people taking advantage of the water at the Barrier Dam over the 4th of July weekend. Some were even clever enough to bring a pop up canopy to stay out of sun. It was shoulder to shoulder people on Saturday. Enjoy! We can share the heat and water. Stay safe.

If you are interested in sending Shirley Thompson Van Valkenburgh, formerly of West Kill, a card or note, her address is: Sugarmill Manor, Assisted Living & Memory Care, 8985 S. Sun Coast Blvd., Homosass, FL 34446.

Because there will not be a column for The Scoop for July 19, those birthdays and anniversaries are included in this week’s column. Get those cards and best wishes to those celebrating.

Happy Birthday to Lester Chase on July 15. On July 16 it is Happy Birthday to Ann Oliver. On July 17 we wish Chrissy Thorington, Brianna Cross. Sophia Baker and Karen Aurigema a Happy Birthday. Arnold Jaeger and Javin Traver are wished Happy Birthday on Jly 20. On July 21 it is Happy Birthday to John Baker, Kaitlyn Cross, and cousins Lukas Pruyn and Arabella Gurley. Alexis Marsh and Dave Rikard are wished Happy Birhday on July 22. On July 24 it is Happy Birthday to Deb Case Brainerd and Jane Bemis,sister of Laurel Irwin Van Aken. Tony Marsh and Kipp O’Hara are wished Happy Birthday on July 26. Happy Anniversary to Eric and Jennifer Lane on July 16. On July 20 it is Happy Anniversary to Eddie and Lisa Zimmerman. Deb and Gene Brainerd are wished a Happy Anniversary on July 23. Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all.

News? Send to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518-299-3219.   

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July at the Pratt Features Zadock Pratt, Ralph Ingersoll, and the Ghost Troops of WWII

PRATTSVILLE—We have an exciting month of events here at the Zadock Pratt Museum and hope to see you at some or all of them! Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 13th, when former Pratt Museum curator Suzanne Walsh will be giving a lecture on the Zadock Pratt, Ralph Ingersoll, and The Ghost Troops of WWII. Join former Pratt Museum Curator Suzanne Walsh as she recounts the recently declassified story about how Zadock Pratt’s great grandson, Ralph Ingersoll was front and center in the smoke and mirrors escapades that saved the lives of thousands of US troops and helped win the war in the operation of the “Ghost Army of World War II”.  “Every army practices deception. If they don’t, they can’t win…” (RTD. USA Gen. Wesley Clark). The “Ghost Army of World War II” tells an almost unbelievable story of not just any kind of historical military deception, but one that was audaciously out-of-the-box, due to a big helping of Ralph Ingersoll, himself. Because of the declassification, we now know in June 1944 the United States Army created a new one-of-a-kind secret unit called the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, a regiment formed to deceive and confuse German troops in Europe during World War II into not only believing the US military had far more forces in Europe than it actually had, but also into believing a decoy army was the real one while the real units critically operated on the front lines elsewhere. Relying on the talents of inspired actors, writers, artists and fashion designers, this regiment of patriotic “con artists” was a tactical deception unit designed to be flexible and stealthy enough to create battlefield illusions in one strategic location and vanish, only to appear suddenly in an entirely different location, confusing the enemy and manipulating Hitler’s decisions. Their military equipment consisted of the brilliant and creative maneuvering of inflatable rubber tanks, jeeps, artillery positioned in sight of front lines. Their illusions and trickeries were completed with fake radio broadcasts, sonic noises, amplified recordings of US troops quietly shooting the breeze, along with phony messages disseminated in code, all of which theatrical complements contributed to these “Cecil B. DeMille Warriors” helping to win the war--big time! The Ghost Army had camouflage, sonic and radio. The camouflage unit was equipped with inflatable tanks, cannons, jeeps, trucks and airplanes. What began as a spic idea in Ralph Ingersoll’s imagination helped win World War II. In the end, the Ghost Army—and Zadock Pratt’s great-grandson, Ralph Ingersoll—would be credited with saving an estimated 25,000 lives with their creative deceptions. Later in the month, we are celebrating alongside many cultural institutions in the region for Upstate Art Weekend. We will have a reading by local author Jennifer Kabat, a panel discussion on the current exhibition Whose Folk, and the Second Annual Zadock Pratt Lecture: Lafayette’s Visit to Greene County, NY by Greene County Historian Jonathan Palmer. The Zadock Pratt Museum’s mission is to excavate, elevate, and share the rich histories and cultures of Prattsville and the greater tri-county Catskills region. With the life and legacy of Zadock Pratt at our core, it aims to be a critical beacon of local research and education; serve and preserve through community-minded programming, events, and encounters that tell expansive stories; and to contextualize and cultivate ideas that matter. The Zadock Pratt Museum is located at 14540 Main Street, Prattsville, NY 12468. Admission is Free. Refreshments are served. Visit us at zadockprattmuseum.org or on Facebook @ Zadock Pratt Museum for more information. The Museum receives generous support from the Bank of Greene County, Greene County Legislature’s Cultural Initiative Program, Nicholas J. Juried Foundation, and the Town of Prattsville.

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Traditional Speaking by Pat Larsen - Sweet Notes of Summer

Summer 2024 is now upon us. Depending on what age you choose to “ identify as” this author says “ tongue in cheek…The bearing down of this season will conjure up an immediate response.

Let’s explore the possibilities that this time of year can bring up, as we drift from now to then in our memories.

Baby Boomers from” back in the day”  found themselves delighted to be free of school books and classes at the end of June. Old frayed converse sneakers dotted  the telephone wires overhead from the school yard to the streets we lived on.

We were the generation that spent our summers chalking up the sidewalks playing hopscotch or shooting marbles on makeshift frame works made of sticks.

Sometimes a  kind and loving neighbor would freeze up some Cool Aide in a jar that then became some shaved ice as a refreshment for a hot summer's day. No one would remain indoors and  always had to be coaxed to come home as the sun set. There was just so much fun to be had with friends, not a moment was wasted. Softball was the team sport that interrupted many a street’s egress for those trying to navigate getting to work in cars.

Once in a great while, if we had saved up enough loose change, we’d anticipate flagging  down the ice cream  truck when we heard the familiar sound of the bells from a few blocks away. 

Getting in line early was part of the game we would play with each other hoping to be able to buy our favorite treat before the supply ran out.

Slurping and dripping ice cream down our arms was part of the fun right until our parents demanded that we get hosed off  before entering the house.

Books were not a staple in my home. Not until much later in my life.

But Brenda Starr comics were!!! I bought everyone at the candy shop.

I lovingly layered each comic book on my desk feathered out awaiting my selection for the day.

I’d get lost in the fictitious story lines and stare in wonder at the possibilities of becoming just like Brenda someday.

On very special occasions, I’d spend a weekend away with the family. We went to the Poconos to vacation. It was magical there. There was a pool. As well as a shuffleboard court that the adults played all day long.

Once my cousin took all the kids out in a row boat only to be scolded for not bringing along life jackets especially for my 3 yr old sister.  It’s a wonder we survived those days.

I remembered being allowed to stay up late and we sat outside of our cabin at night to watch the stars.

That part was the stuff dreams were made of.

Funny thing is, by comparison to the ongoing flurry of satellites and space stations passing overhead these days, there was a peaceful quiet that would seep into the bones back then.

That relaxed atmosphere would envelope us right up until someone decided to retell the story of 

MARY’S GRAVE that would elicit  screams as the sound of scraping was reproduced when the horror story came to life. Some things are never forgotten. This was one of those times.

That was then. This is …well, a time to reflect on days gone by.

It wasn’t better. Just different.

I think I like the old days a little more though If anyone is asking.

Pat Larsen lives, works and plays all year long with her husband and puppy in Greene County, NY

She brings fitness classes with music to enhance the lifestyles of Seniors and Baby Boomers weekly at The Shamrock House in East Durham. Ladies and Gents are welcome.

Reflections..Anything but an Ordinary Life is Pat’s first book that is due to roll out in Sept 2024.

Pat can be reached at 518-275-8686 to chat.

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Upcoming Events at the Mountain Top Library

Mountain Top Library

Ongoing Events - Summer 2024

Mondays

2-5pm: Monday Meet-Up: Spend the afternoon sipping coffee & socializing - We’ve got games, puzzles, programs, and more! Join us every Monday afternoon to share stories, play games, learn about local history, and enjoy conversation. All ages welcome.

2-4pm: Mahjong: All levels are welcome to join in – instructions are available on-site!

3pm: Local History Round Table- Bring Your Pictures & Stories to Share!

4pm: Yoga with Jess- Conquer Your Case of the Mondays & Start The Week Rejuvenated! All levels welcome – Please bring a mat

Wednesdays

2-4pm: Tech Time with Digital Navigators. Please call us to schedule an appointment at 518-589-5707.

3:30-4:30pm: Chair Yoga with Jessa: Wednesdays (through July 24th) Join us for a gentle, rejuvenating stretch. Chair Yoga is a great for everyone, and results in increased mobility & circulation. Thanks to The Friends of the Mountain Top Library.

Thursdays

10am: Joyful Yoga with Mary Cohen (starts August 1st) All levels welcome. Please bring a mat. Mary Jude Cohen has been practicing yoga in its many forms since she was 11 years old, and earned a 200-hour certification in 2015. She is also a certified Reiki practitioner and dedicated skier on Hunter Mountain.

3pm: Enrichment *For Families*- On-going and always changing! Games, Crafts, Projects, Lego, and more designed for the enrichment. All Ages & Family Friendly. Everybody Welcome!

3-5pm Dioramas with Kim- Make your “own” miniature diorama to display at home or give as a gift! Many ways to make one with our supplies. Great for beginners! Part of Thursday Enrichment. Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Looking for Tech Help? Our Mountain Top Library Digital Navigators are ready to assist!

Digital navigators are trained, trusted guides who help deal with a variety of technology needs.

To schedule an appointment for FREE individualized support, contact us at 518-589-5707.

Special Events - Summer 2024

July

Sat. 7/13-10am: Poetry Workshop with Jerrice J. Baptiste, “The Universe” “Whether we are aware of it, we are part of a vast universe. Wordless, silent, outspoken we play a role. We also get to explore the moon, the stars, the sun in our poems and how we relate to them. Poems by Tracy K. Smith, Kabir, Steven Schnur and others will offer their own connection to the universe which will help you embrace yours.”                                     Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Sat. 7/13-11am: Julius Caesar Book Club - Want to dive deeper into Julius Caesar? Join Catskill Mountain Shakespeare’s Education & Outreach Director for a fun and casual roundtable conversation focused on the thematic elements of the tragedy and its relevance today. A Study Guide will be provided. For more info: Email Carolyn at c.wright@catskillmountainshakespeare.com. To register for the event: Please call the library at (518) 589-5707or email Jaki at director@mountaintoplibrary.org

Mon. 7/15 - 11:30am: Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York: The Empowered Caregiver Series- Part 1 of 3. “Building Foundations of Caregiving & Supporting Independence.”  This education series teaches caregivers how to navigate the responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia. Caregivers can register for individual courses to meet their needs or complete the entire series.

Call 518-675-7214 to register.

Wed. 7/17 – 12pm: Poetry Workshop with Jerrice J. Baptiste, “The Letters” “Have you ever opened an old shoe box and revisited the letters and postcards that were sent to you or letters exchanged with an old pen pal? In this workshop, we get to explore the meaning of letters sent and received in our lives. We also get to write poems, letters to someone dear. Poems by Trapeta B. Mayson, Sharon Olds and others will create a stepping stone to writing our own valuable messages.”                                                                                                                Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Thur. 7/18 – 10am-1pm: Unplugged & Transcendent: Led by educator, Amanda Graham, participants will discuss the literary roots & themes of transcendentalism. We will then venture into nature, and immerse ourselves in the tenets & motifs of the movement. When we return to the library, we will reflect on what the practice and motifs have given us, and create nature journals to carry with us.

Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Sat. 7/20 - 10am: Book Club with Bagels. Bagels, Baked Goods & Book Talk! “The Door-Man” by Peter M. Wheelwright is available to borrow. Reserve it today!

Mon. 7/22- 11:30 am: Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York: The Empowered Caregiver Series- Part 2 of 3. “Communicating Effectively & Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors.”  This education series teaches caregivers how to navigate the responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia. Caregivers can register for individual courses to meet their needs or complete the entire series.

Call 518-675-7214 to register.

Mon. 7/22 - 12pm-5pm: Rock n’ Reptiles. An afternoon of games, exhibits, crafts & more!

Thank you Stewarts for making this program possible!

Mon. 7/22 - 1pm: Live Presentation from Hudson Valley Reptile Rescue. Part of Rock n’ Reptiles day.

Thur. 7/25 – 10am-1pm: Unplugged & Transcendent: Led by educator, Amanda Graham, participants will discuss the literary roots & themes of transcendentalism. We will then venture into nature, and immerse ourselves in the tenets & motifs of the movement. When we return to the library, we will reflect on what the practice and motifs have given us, and create nature journals to carry with us.

Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Mon. 7/29 - 11:30- Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York: The Empowered Caregiver Series- Part 3 of 3. “Exploring Care and Support Services.” This education series teaches caregivers how to navigate the responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia. Caregivers can register for individual courses to meet their needs or complete the entire series.

Call 518-675-7214 to register.

Mon. 7/29- 5:30pm: Sugar Maples Artist Lecture Series- Ben Owen - A collaboration with Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts

Tue. 7/30- 4pm: Girl Scouts Meeting: You’re invited to join the new Mountain Top Girl Scouts Troop. For more information, call: 518-489-8110 or email: membership@girlscoutsneny.org

August

Fri. 8/2 - 12pm: Midsummer Music & Movement. An Afternoon of Sing-a-longs, Stories, Crafts, Music & More. Two Sessions of “Telling Stories with Dance & Music & Books,” led by Beth Jacobs 12pm & 1 pm. Thank you Stewarts for making this program possible!

Fri. 8/2 – 7pm: The Greene Room Players Songbirds Summer Concert - Free performance featuring the most talented voices on the Mountain Top

Sat. 8/3- Sun. 8/11: Story Walk at the Mountain Top Arboretum (41 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville)    "After the Race: A Tale of Two Olympians" Alec Sokolow & A.D. Lubow / Illustrated by Mei Li

Mon. 8/12 – 11am-12pm: “Summer in a Glass” Juicing with Deborah C. Smith. health and nutrition coach, Deborah C. Smith Shares Recipes & Samples of some of her favorite healthy juices! Produce is courtesy of our friends & neighbors at Fromer market Gardens. Registration Required, please call: 518-589-5707

Mon. 8/12- 5:30pm: Artist Lecture Series- Cael Chappell- A collaboration with Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts

Mon. 8/19- 5:30pm: Artist Lecture Series- Patricia Miranda & Christopher Kaczmarek- A collaboration with Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts

Tue. 8/20 - 1 pm: Watercolor with Laura Lanchantin - *All Levels Welcome *Supplies Provided *Registration Suggested 518-589-5707. Thanks to the Friends of the Mountain Top Library for supporting this program!

Sat. 8/24 - 10am – 12pm: Wilderness and Human Role - Zane Lawyer, CFA's* Education Arborist (*Catskill Forest Association, Inc.), will speak on the evolving meaning of wilderness throughout American history and its significance for the Catskills.Following the presentation, a wide-ranging open discussion of wilderness will be held with the audience to further clarify the role of humans in the environment. Participants are encouraged to tell their own stories, perspectives, and first-hand experiences with wilderness and how their own understanding has or hasn’t evolved over time.

Mon. 8/26 – 10am – 1pm: Beginner Bookbinding with Leonard Seastone. Supplies provided. For ages 16 and up. Please register by calling 518-589.5705.                                                                                                       Thank you CREATE for making this program possible.

Wed. 8/27 - 4pm: Girl Scouts Meeting - You’re invited to join the new Mountain Top Girl Scouts Troop. For more information, call: 518-489-8110 or email: membership@girlscoutsneny.org

September

Sat. 9/7- Sun. 9/15: Story Walk at the Mountain Top Arboretum (41 Maude Adams Road, Tannersville)        The Little Guys" by Vera Brosgol

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Towle to present Schoharie County Historical Society talk at the Gallupville House July 25th

GALLUPVILLE – Historians have referred to 1932 as the “cruelest year” of The Great Depression. It was also one of the most pivotal election years in American history, often remembered for Franklin D. Roosevelt’s landslide victory over incumbent Herbert Hoover, ushering in the era of The New Deal. But behind the other names and parties included on the 1932 election ballot are stories, events, and characters that offer a deeper understanding of a nation in crisis, the search for solutions, and the struggles associated with economic crisis. Join Bradley Towle for a closer look at the 1932 election year at The Gallupville House on Thursday, July 25th at 6:30 P.M. There will be a specific focus on Herbert Hoover, The Communist Party, and the Bonus Army. The presentation is a companion to Reds on the Ballot: Communists, The Bonus Army, and the 1932 Election, an article previously published in The Olde Stone Fort Newsletter and currently available on the museum’s website. https://theoldstonefort.org/2024/06/reds-on-the-ballot-communists-the-bonus-army-and-the-1932-election/. 

This program is brought to you by the Schoharie County Historical Society and hosted by The Gallupville House, 913 Route 443, Gallupville, NY. Additional parking is available at the Lutheran Church at School St. and Route 443.

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All About Racing

Assemblyman Chris Tague presented a NYS Assembly Citation to Denny and Debbie Tilison during the Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Saturday at the Fonda Speedway Museum.  Biittig photo

Jamie Warner of Fonda celebrates his Four Cylinder win with a roof dance on Sunday at Glen Ridge Motorsports Park on Sunday.  Biittig photo

By Ed & Betty Biittig

Our racing weekend started early and was packed full of racing in many directions.

Wednesday, July 3, Fonda held the STSS event, Firecracker 50 and a great field of racers showed up to compete.  Matt Sheppard of Savannah, NY took home the $10,000 top prize after he and Mat Williamson of Canada gave the crowd a hotly contested race to the checker.   

Other winners on Wednesday were Payton Talbot, 602 Sportsman and Chris Stalker in the special Stone Motorsports/Online Performance 20-lap event. 

The Bill Ag Match Race winners were Jack Lehner who won the first three matches with Alex Yankowski winning match race four and Rocky Warner winning the fifth and final match race.

Thursday July 4th, Utica-Rome held the second annual Bill Shea Memorial to honor the former promoter and all-around great guy.  Stewart Friesen of Sprakers was the big winner, picking up both the ESS Sprint main event worth $2500 and the Modified 30-lap event paying $4000. 

Friday, July 5, Albany-Saratoga held the 358-Modified Shoot Out event and Ronnie Johnson of Duanesburg picked up his first win of the season at the Malta oval.  Jessey Mueller of Plattsburgh picked up his second win of the season. 

Saturday, July 6, it was back to Fonda for Hall of Fame Night sponsored by Palmer’s Service Center owned by Alton and Carole Palmer.  Palmers sponsored the night and are also big sponsors for a number of racers at the track. 

The winner of the night’s Modified main event was Jack Lehner of Saratoga Springs and winner of the make-up feature from May 25 was Stewart Friesen.  Other winners were Brendan Gibbons, 602 Sportsman; Kenny Gates, Pro Stocks; Steve Wagoner, Limited Sportsman; Jay Ingersoll (dual cam) and Kenny Hollenbeck (single came) Four Cylinder.  The win for Hollenbeck marked his 100th win at the track. 

Corky Warner’s win in the make-up Limited Sportsman event from 5/25 was his first win at Fonda joining his grandfather, Don, father, Rocky and brother Tanner in the win column at Fonda Speedway. 

Prior to racing at 2 pm on Saturday, the Fonda Museum held their annual Hall of Fame inductions and those being honored were race officials, Denny and Debbie Tilison; driver, Jeff Trombley, driver and pit steward, Steve Burega, track fire safety, Tim Healy and media, Jim Ellis.  The 7th Annual Bruce Dostal Dedication to Fonda Speedway Museum awards went to Royce Gage and Mike Jackson. 

Sunday at Glen Ridge the winners were Brian Calabrese, 358 Mods; Cody Ochs, 602 Sportsman; Zachary Graham, Limited Sportsman; Chuck McSpirit, Pro Stocks; Jason Samrov, Street Stocks.

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Antique Franklin Cars to Visit Schoharie Village

SCHOHARIE – On Wednesday, July 31, Schoharie Colonial Heritage Association will be hosting the Franklin Car Club. They will be traveling with over thirty vintage Franklin automobiles, and will be visiting historic sites in the Village of Schoharie, and beyond. Make plans to stop and view these antique cars. They will be located on Depot Lane and Main Street, Schoharie, from about 10:30am till 3:00 pm. They will also be driving to the Old Stone Fort, the 1743 Palatine House Museum, the Schoharie valley Railroad museum, and the Doctor Best House in Middleburgh.

The HH Franklin Automobile Company was founded in Syracuse NY in 1902 and produced cars until 1934.  Franklin cars are unique in the fact that they are all air-cooled.  All Franklins until 1928 had wooden frames.  Wood was used instead of steel due to its light weight and flexibility.  All Franklins also used full elliptic springs such as was used by buggies in the horse drawn carriage days.  This produced a very smooth ride.  Franklins were mid-priced cars competing with Buicks and the lower priced Packards.  They were favored by doctors because in the colder climates, they did not have to worry about a radiator freezing because there was no radiator!

The HH Franklin Club was founded in the 1950’s by a group of Franklin owners who wanted to keep the spirit alive and to share stories and parts as well as have a good time.  The Franklin Club is a “driving” club in that they would rather drive their cars than judge their cars at a show.

Each year the Club has an annual meet called a Trek.  For over 50 years it was held at Cazenovia College, which is located just south of Syracuse.  Unfortunately, the College closed.  The Trek is now headquartered at Union College in Schenectady.  Most days of the week that the Trek is held, the members drive the Franklins to different local sites.  They are looking forward to learning more about the Schoharie Valley’s rich history and the scenic drive to get there!  

Members of the HH Franklin Club are located throughout the US, Canada and overseas as well.  This year they expect folks from as far as Florida, Minnesota, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, New England, New York, Virginia, Maryland, California, and many more plus Canada.  The oldest car coming to visit the Trek this year is a 1906 Franklin, and the newest will be a 1933.  They expect about 30 Franklins to come to visit Schoharie. The Trek starts on July 27th and runs through August 3rd.  Most Franklins will be trailered here, but some local NY folks will be driving them.  At least one family will be driving from Long Island in their Franklin.  

Mark your calendars. Make a visit to Schoharie Village. This will be a unique opportunity to view these magnificent antique Franklin automobiles.

A vintage 1930 Franklin Automobile. Photo courtesy Dick Roth, Franklin Car Club.

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Aspiring Teachers Earn Scholarships at Capital Region BOCES

ALBANY – A pair of aspiring teachers are recipients of the Barbara Zimmerman scholarship at Capital Region BOCES.

Skyllar Fleming from Guilderland and Mataiah Lindsey from Schoharie were recognized during the first-ever Career and Technical Education Center – Albany Campus Awards and Scholarship celebration earlier this month.

Fleming will attend Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. this fall and Lindsey will attend SUNY Cobleskill. Both graduates are pursuing an early childhood education degree.

The graduates praised their time at Capital Region BOCES.

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Auto Racing News

By Tom Coughlin

Tonight is $5 Fan Appreciation Night at Utica-Rome Speedway, with all divisions running and only five dollars for grandstand general admission.

 Some more positive news last week was the change in ownership of the Utica-Rome Speedway. As of Friday, June 28, as promoter Brett Deyo and local businessman Jason Broedel of Broedel Energy have completed the purchase from the Cole family and are now the new owners of the Vernon, N.Y. track.

 Glen Ridge Motorsports Park will present their 2023 Champions with their awards on Sunday, July 28. Rain or Shine at 12:00 noon at the Barn on the Hill at The Ridge.

 Wednesday July 3rd. at Fonda Speedway there were two big events for the Amsterdam Truck Center modified division. Thanks to the efforts of Shelly Shaffer, the Anagnostopulos family, and many supporters, over $8,000 was distributed to drivers competing in the Bill Ag Modified Elimination race and the Short Track Super Series-Firecracker 50.

Rocky Warner would claim the overall victory for the one on one Bill Ag match races, but it was Jack Lehner by virtue of winning the first three rounds that took the largest amount of money from the contest.  In the 50-lap Short Track Super Series Firecracker for the modifieds (with sail panels) it was Matt Sheppard collecting the $10,000 first place money, Mat Willaimson finished second and Anthony Perrego third. 

In the companion STSS 25-lap feature for the Swagger Factory Apparel crate 602 sportsman Payton Talbot earned the win over Brian Calabrese and Chad Edwards.

 On Independence Day Utica-Rome Speedway held the Bill Shea Memorial, a strong field of modifieds and sprint cars were in the pits. Stewart Friesen would earn the 30-lap feature for the modified division as he beat Tim Fuller and Marc Johnson to the finish line. In night number one of the Empire Super Sprint CNY Speedweek Stewart would also win the 360 winged sprint car 25-lap feature Jordan Poirier finished second and Danny Varin Third. The Taylor Trailers 25-lap crate 602 sportsman feature was won by Payton Talbot over Brian Calabrese and Matt Janczuk. And in the Next Generation GraphiX pro stock division 20-lap feature the top three were Cousin Luke Horning, A.J. Walters, and Bret Belden.

 Friday night Albany-Saratoga Speedway, In the NAPA DIRTcar big block modified division 35-lap feature Jessey Mueller took the win over Kolby Schroder and Matt Delorenzo. Ronnie Johnson scored the victory.

in the 25-lap feature for the DiCarlo’s Auto Body Shootout for the DIRTcar 358 modified division Walt Hammond and Marc Johnson filled the podium. Tim Hartman Jr. picked up the win in the DIRTcar crate 602 sportsman division 25-lap feature.

 Brewerton Speedway hosted the E.S.S. for their second night of Speedweek.  Jason Barney took the win in the 25-lap feature. Danny Varin finished fourth, Chase Moran 10th.

 Saturday night at Fonda Speedway there was a make-up race from May 25 for the Amsterdam Truck Center modified division. In that 30-lap feature Stewart Friesen claimed the win over Jack Lehner and Alex Yankowski. In this week's modified feature Jack Lehner would earn his first victory at Fonda in 2024 over Alex Yankowski and Brian Pessolano. In the Swagger Factory Apparel crate 602 sportsman division 25-lap feature Brendan Gibbons took the checkers ahead of Payton Talbot and Chad Edwards.

 The Leatherstocking Credit Union prostock division 20-lap feature went to Kenny Gates as he beat Ivan Joslin and Jason Morrison to the finish line. The Montgomery County Office for Aging limited sportsman division also held a make-up race from May 25.  Corky Warner won that

feature as he beat  A.J. Greco and Jeff Bobilin to the checkered flag. 

In the regular feature for Saturday. Steve Wagoner claimed the win for the limited sportsman division. Walter Cook finished second and Lance Hill was third. The Fonda Fair 4 cylinder division feature was won by Jay Ingersoll in the dual cam division and Kenny Hollenbeck in the

single cam division. For Kenny Hollenbeck it was feature win number100 at the Track of Champions. 

The E.S.S. was at Fulton Speedway on Saturday. Davie Franek claimed the 25-lap feature victory Chase Moran was 16th. and Danny Varin lost an engine and was credited with finishing 24th. 

Sunday was a full night. Beginning with Glen Ridge Motorsports Park Brian Calabrese was victorious in the Callanan Industries DIRTcar 358 modified division 35-lap feature as he finished ahead of Tucker O'Connor and Brian Pessolano. In the Ted's Auto Body/ Next Generation GraphiX DIRTcar crate 602 sportsman division 30-lap feature Cody Ochs scored the win over Taylor Wason and Kaden Hohensheldt. The Yurkewecz Auto Crushers DIRTcar pro stock division 20-lap feature was won by Chuck McSpirit over Cousin Luke Horning and Slater Baker. The 20-lap limited sportsman division feature went to Zach Graham over Tim Deffer and Owen Lewis. Jason Samrov scored the street stock division 10-lap feature ahead of Matt Mosher and Mark Lester. In the Leatherstocking Credit Union DIRTcar mini stock division 15-lap feature Jordan Ryder was the winner over Josh Reome and Billy Hillman. 

Weedsport Speedway hosted the DIRTcar 358 modified series Jimmy Phelps would claim that 50-lap feature. Also on the program was the Empire Super Sprints series. After changing engines due to a blown power plant from the night before at Fulton Speedway. Danny Varin of Fonda went from 10th. to first in claiming the 25-lap feature. Chase Moran of Fultonville finished 17th. and Chad Miller of Amsterdam finished 28th.

 Bridgeport Speedway  held the STSS South Jersey Shootout for the big block/small block modified division 50-lap feature. Alex Yankowski sat on the pole and led every lap, Danny Bouc and Anthony Perrego completed the podium. Stewart Friesen finished 11th. In the STSS crate 602 sportsman 25-lap feature Logan Watt was the winner Payton Talbot was second and Dylan Madsen was 11th. 

The F.X.Caprara Car Companies-Thunder on the Thruway Series returns to Fonda on Saturday. All weekly divisions will be in action, with the modified, crate 602 sportsman, and pro stock divisions competing for an increased purse and the valuable Thunder Series points. 

Lebanon Valley Speedway is celebrating promoter Howard Commander’s 80th. birthday tomorrow with The Commander, a 33-lap modified feature paying $8,000. All weekly divisions will be in action. 

Glen Ridge-Kids Club will present Bike Night this week on Sunday, July 14. 

Thursday, July 18 Utica-Rome Speedway will host the STSS Richie Evans Remembered 61 for modifieds. 

Tuesday, July 23 the Amsterdam Mohawks baseball team will host their annual NASCAR Night. There will be a number of local race car teams that will have their cars on site. Games are played at Shuttleworth Park in Amsterdam. Game time is 6:35 pm. 

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