“Sharon Things - Local Happenings for Sharon Springs”

By Alexis Pencar

Hey Neighbors!

What a chilly Labor Day weekend with night time temperatures dipping into the 40s. The slightly cooler temps made for less mosquitos which was a huge positive with nearly 20 West Nile virus cases reported across New York State.

The temperatures will remain on the cooler side with some rain expected over the weekend. We will visit the 40s again at night so be sure to pick your garden!

Happy Back to School for all students and parents this past week, especially to the staff of Sharon Springs Central School! Wishing everyone a successful school year! Remember, that also means school buses are back on the road again so please use caution at bus stops.

Big Happy Birthday to my husband Aaron Pencar!

Big Congrats to newlyweds Jerry & Marlena Olsen who tied the knot with family and friends on Saturday August 31st at Fusion Church in Cobleskill.

The Sharon Springs Harvest Festival is coming up on Sept. 21st & 22nd for this full weekend celebration of fall and local businesses. For more information visit www.sharonspringsharvestfestival.org

The Cherry Valley Kite Festival is coming up on Sept. 28th from 10:00 - 5:00 PM. This annual event is hosted by The Teepee on Route 20 and is located on Campbell Road in Cherry Valley. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

Wren’s Earth Refillery is now open for business Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The shop is located at 277 Stage Coach Road, Sharon Springs, NY. You can shop anytime at WrensEarth.com. 

Parsons Vegetable Farm has all your gardening and spring needs AND The Outrageous Snack Snack is also now open Friday through Sundays from 10-4 PM serving up specialty handcrafted donuts and more! Located on Route 20 across from the Walmart DC. 

The Klinkhart Hall Concerts in the Park are over for now but check out all the upcoming events on their website at klinkharthall.org!

The American Legion Post 1269 of Sharon Springs is looking for new members! If you are interested in becoming an American Legion member, volunteering, or even donating to the many wonderful causes the Legion supports, please contact Commander Paul Todd at (518) 649-0024 for more information.

Sharon Springs Free Library News: 

It's "MVLS-GO" time! Every library in the Mohawk Valley Library System has its own Summer 2024 Trading Card that can be collected. Stop in to our library to check out our unique and limited-edition trading card for Sharon Springs. We challenge you to try to collect all 14 from every library! Check out the map of all the participating libraries by visiting mvls.info/trading-cards/. 

The Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays from 3:00 - 8:00 PM, Mondays & Thursdays from 10:00 - 6:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 -1:00 PM, and Sundays - Closed. 

For more Library information please contact (518) 284-3126.

The Sharon Springs Food Pantry is an excellent local resource for all! They are located in the United Methodist Church on Route 20, across from the school (511 US Route 20, Sharon’s Springs, NY 13459). They are always accepting donations! If you or someone you know is in need of the Pantry, the hours are Thursday 9:00 -10:30 AM and 5:00 - 6:30 PM. For more information please contact (518) 284-2687 or follow them on Facebook.

Worship Services

The Sharon Reformed Church (6858 State Route 10, Sharon Springs, NY 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 234-2387 for more details.

The Sharon Springs United Methodist Church (511 State Route 20, Sharon Springs, NY, 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 284-2200 for more details.

The St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church (24 Maple Avenue, Cherry Valley, NY 13320) offers weekly mass at 10:00 am. Reminder: confession is available 30 minutes before every mass. Contact at (607) 264-3779 for more details.

The Zion St. John’s Lutheran Church Seward (114 Mesick Ave, Cobleskill, NY 12043) offers weekly service on Sundays at 9:00 am. Contact at (518) 234-3222 for more details.

Cornerstone Baptist Church (7274 Route 10, Ames, NY 13317). Sunday Service is at 10:00 am. All are welcome. Contact (518) 673 3405 for more details.

Sharon Sr. Congregate Meal Site

Local residents are invited to enjoy good company and a noon-time meal year round (except holidays) at the Schoharie County OFA’s “Spa Ritz” Sr. Congregate Meal Site at the Firehouse at 137 Beechwood Rd. M-W-F. 8 oz of 1% milk is served with each meal. Orders for meals must be called into the OFA office at (518) 295-2001 before 2 p.m. for the following day. Effective January 1st the suggested donation for those 60 years old and older is $5.00 per meal. Under age 60? You’re welcome to participate for a fee of $7.50 per meal.

To share community news, upcoming events, business specials, adjusted hours, birthdays, anniversaries, or even an outstanding resident, please contact me directly at (772) 971-1410 or alexis.pencar@gmail.com. Have a great week! Thanks!

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Sheriff Partners with SUNY Oneonta to Find New Deputies

ONEONTA — Facing a steady decline in applicants for new sheriff’s deputy positions, the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Office is seeking creative new ways to find qualified candidates on the SUNY Oneonta campus.

Working closely alongside SUNY Oneonta Law Enforcement Academy instructors, Schoharie County Undersheriff Bruce Baker and his team are reimagining the traditional hiring practices followed by most rural law enforcement agencies.

Four members of the active class of cadets at the SUNY Oneonta Law Enforcement Academy were officially sworn in this month as provisional Schoharie County Road Deputies while they complete their studies and certifications. The provisional deputies will take the September civil service exam and will move to permanent status when they obtain reachable exam scores and graduate from the academy.

The Schoharie County Sheriff’s Office seeks to hire up to 10 deputies and will guarantee full-time positions upon graduation and meeting the residency requirement.

“We’ve seen a dramatic decline in the pool of candidates applying when simply making a public job listing,” Baker said. “Partnering with the SUNY Oneonta Law Enforcement Academy allows me and my officers to spend quality time with potential candidates to access their character and establish the rapport to discuss the benefits and challenges of law enforcement in rural areas today.”

Like many rural communities across New York, Schoharie County and the Village of Cobleskill are struggling to find sufficient law enforcement coverage while overcoming financial, population and recruitment challenges. The Schoharie County Sheriff's Office has gotten approval to expand its road patrol from 22 to 29 positions.

SUNY Oneonta Law Enforcement Academy Director Joseph Galante said the partnership is mutually beneficial.

“Having the active participation of the Schoharie County Sheriff in the curriculum and training of the SUNY Oneonta Law Enforcement Academy strengthens our program,” Galante said. “Our goal is to help more students train for a career in law enforcement today, and job opportunities upon graduation that encourage our cadets to stay in the region is an added bonus that we eagerly celebrate.”

“We are proud to collaborate with community partners, like the Schoharie County Sheriff, to address workforce development challenges,” says Dr. Alberto Cardelle, SUNY Oneonta President. “Our mission at SUNY Oneonta is to prepare our students to succeed and find opportunities to engage in building communities across the state and with the hope that some find those opportunities in our immediate region.”

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SUNY Cobleskill Fighting Tiger Weekly Recap

COBLESKILL — The SUNY Cobleskill women’s cross country team opened their 2024 season with a strong showing by posting a team score of 20 points to outdistance a four-team field at the Northern Vermont University-Castleton hosted by the Spartans on the University’s home course on Saturday. The Fighting Tigers were led by sophomore Lilianna Peters, Hinsdale, N.Y., Allegany-Limestone High School, who won the event for the second consecutive year bettering the 31-runner field by covering the 5000-meter course in a time of 20:27.

The Cobleskill women’s volleyball team dropped two-of-three matches to open the year at the SUNY Morrisville Tournament hosted by the Mustangs of SUNY Morrisville in Morrisville, N.Y. on Friday and Saturday. The Fighting Tigers opened play on Friday losing to the Saxons of Alfred University 3-0 by set scores of 25-15, 25-15 and 25-23 then on Saturday dropped a 3-1 decision to the Gators of Russell Sage College by set scores of 25-21, 25-15, 26-24 and 25-17 before defeating the Wildcats of the SUNY Polytechnic Institute 3-1 by set scores of 26-24, 25-17, 23-25 and 25-17 to open the year at 1-2 overall. Sophomore outside hitter Emma Hinze, Altenburg, Mo./Saxon Lutheran High School, was named to the all-tournament team by the event’s coaches for her consistent play throughout the tournament. 

The men’s cross country team opened their 2024 campaign by posting a team score of 52 points to place second in a six-team field at the Northern Vermont University-Castleton Invitational hosted by the Spartans on the University’s home course in Castleton, Vt. on Saturday. The Fighting Tigers were led by junior Nik Recore, Peru, N.Y., Peru High School, who won the event for his first career invitational victory bettering the 46-runner field by covering the 8000-meter course in a time of 28:46. 

The men’s soccer team opened the 2024 campaign by splitting a pair of non-league contests losing on the road on Friday evening to the host Owls of Westfield State College 3-0 in Westfield, Mass. The Fighting Tigers then returned home on Sunday to post a 2-0 win over the Platt Institute Cannoneers to open the campaign at 1-1 overall. Fighting Tiger sophomore goalkeeper Adam Champlin, South Kortright, N.Y., South Kortright High School, recorded 10 saves in the loss to Westfield State and 15 saves including a save of a penalty kick to secure the win over Platt as Cobleskill opens the season with a 1-1 record. 

The Fighting Tiger women’s soccer team dropped their season opener on Saturday to the Kangaroos of SUNY Canton by a 2-0 margin in a game played on the turf at the SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Marcy, N.Y. Sophomore goalkeeper Dory Gosslin, Whitehall, N.Y., Whitehall High School, recorded nine saves on the afternoon as Cobleskill opened the season at 0-1 overall. 

The men’s golf team opened their 2024 season on Saturday posting a team score of 68-over-par 356 to place sixth overall in a field of nine teams at the SUNY Delhi Fall Invitational hosted by the Broncos at the par 72/6459-yard The College Golf Course at Delhi. The Fighting Tigers were led by junior Joshua House, Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Saratoga Springs High School, who tied for ninth place overall at the event in the 43-player field by posting a round of six-over-par 78 

UPCOMING HOME CONTESTS: 

Men’s Soccer: MCLA 9/14, Alfred State College 9/21

Volleyball: Elmira College 9/6, SUNY Potsdam 9/7, Smith College 9/7, SUNY Poly 9/18

Women’s Soccer: Alfred State College 9/7, Pitt-Bradford 9/8, MCLA 9/11

Men’s & Women’s Cross Country hosts the 2024 Steven A. Warde Invitational on 9/7/21

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Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - Time to Prepare for the Hunt

The doldrums of summer are winding down. It's time to prepare for the fall hunting season. A good place to start is locating food sources like this big oak tree dropping calorie rich acorns. Hunting deer, bear, and turkeys in oak flats or beech nut stands can be very productive in a good hard mast year. Now's the time for a check of hunting and trapping equipment and to start pre-season scouting. Many hunters use trail-cameras year-round to keep tabs on wildlife in their hunting woods.

It’s that time of year again. Time to get everything ready for upcoming hunting seasons. Some of which have already opened while others will be here before you know it. You may have to tear yourself away from any end of summer projects you are either doing or trying hard not do!

It’s time to check equipment like tree stands, trail cameras, bows, crossbows, sight-in rifles, practice wing shooting, boil and wax traps, and perhaps go over what gear you have or may need pre-season. 

 Safety should be foremost as we go over our equipment “to-do” lists. Tree stand straps should be checked for wear and excessive tension and adjusted or replaced while you check the overall integrity of any elevated platform. You might find the tension of ratchet straps to be overly tight which could be a sign the tree has grown and the strap and ratchet may be in danger of failing. Loosen, undo, and repair or replace overly stressed or visibly weathered tree stand straps. While at the tree stand, check to see if shooting lanes need to be pruned to enhance visibility. 

 Scouting for sign of game can be accomplished as a separate planned activity and while venturing into and out of your hunting woods to check or repair tree stands. Survey hard and soft mast conditions while checking for scat and evidence of deer browse or black bears and other species.  

 Back to the tools of the trade, is your rifle or shotgun free of barrel obstructions, cleaned, and ready to go? Check the condition of bowstrings on long bows and crossbows. Are they frayed? When was the last time you waxed the strings or given the bow a tune-up? How proficient are you with your bow, crossbow, rifle, or shotgun? Now’s a good time to get some practice in while checking on the condition of our equipment. Checking non-safety-related gear can include replacing batteries on trail-cams and checking for corrosion in the compartment and SD cards checked for operability and storage capacity. Waterfowl hunters have lots of equipment to ready. Boats, motors, canoes, waders, and decoys to just mention a few. 

 There’s one piece of critical, irreplaceable “equipment” in the equation that should not be overlooked; the condition of your health and physical readiness for the rigors of hunting and trapping. One simple and productive way to start getting in hunting shape is by scouting where you plan to hunt. While traversing the area looking for sign and any changes to the landscape, you’ll be getting yourself acclimated to the ease or difficulty of the terrain. While the heat of the summer may be a challenge, don’t forget while the weather may be cooler in the fall and winter, you might be wearing a lot more layers and carrying potentially heavy gear when you go out to hunt or trap.  Not to mention the added stress of bagging and dragging a big buck or bear out of the woods. If you hunt on state land, you can’t legally use motorized vehicles, and may have to drag heavy, harvested game long distances over challenging terrain. It’s not only no fun to be physically stressed, it could be dangerous. Just pre-checking the status of your health and conditioning could be a lifesaver. It’s probably a good idea to see a doctor for an annual physical before going afield in earnest and at least check with your doctor before starting or drastically increasing an exercise routine in preparation for the hunting season. 

Happy hunting, fishing, and trapping until next time!

News and Notes…

Celebration of Life for State FWMB Chair Bill Conners; Sunday, September 8th 

A Celebration of Life Service for William R. Conners will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2024 from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Timothy P. Doyle Funeral Home, at 71 Hooker Ave.
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. Bill Conners, 78, of Pleasant Valley, NY passed away at home on Monday, June 17, 2024. Bill was an avid fisherman and hunter and devoted many decades to various wildlife and conservation programs at the state and local level. He served as Dutchess County Clerk and Chairman of the Dutchess County Resource Recovery Agency. He was a member and past president of the Dutchess County Federation of Fish and Game Club. Bill served as the State Chairman of the NYS Fish and Wildlife Management Board, and as its liaison to the NYS Conservation Advisory Board and to the NYS Conservation Council up until his passing. He served on the Watershed and Preservation Advisory Committee, Estuary Management Plans Advisory Board, various state and local youth fishing and hunting programs, Dutchess Deer Search, Hunters for the Hungry, and many levels of educational outreach. Bill was an outdoor writer and wrote a weekly column in the Poughkeepsie Journal from 1994 until 2024. 

Update:

Boat Ramp at Catskill’s Dutchman’s Landing to Remain Open Until Further Notice

Village of Catskill Officials had closed, then quickly reopened the boat launch ramp at Dutchman’s Landing in time for Labor Day Weekend. It will remain open until further notice as plans for its repair or replacement are being formulated. 

2024 Youth Pheasant Hunting Weekend is September 28th & September 29th 

The 2024 Youth Pheasant Hunting Weekend in our area and in all of Region’s 3, 4, 5, and 6, will be on Saturday, September 28th and Sunday, September 29th. Properly licensed kids, 12 through 15 years of age can exclusively hunt pheasants that weekend with a licensed parent, guardian, or mentor who is at least 21. Check with your county sportsmen’s federation to see which day they may be holding a youth pheasant hunt in your area. The Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs is holding their Youth Pheasant Hunt on Saturday, September 28th at the same location as last year; the Lampman Farm in Greenville. Pre-registration for the Greene County Youth Pheasant Hunt is required.

Norton Hill Wildlife Club’s 2024 Trap Shooting Schedule

Trap shooting at Norton Hill Wildlife Club at 946 Big Woods Road in Greenville begins at 10:00

am on the following remaining Sundays: September 15th and September 29th. 

Cost is just $5.00 per round. Bring your own ammo. Trap shooting is open to all; you don’t have to be a member to take advantage of this opportunity.

Remember to report poaching violations by calling the 24-hour ECO Dispatch at: 

1-844-DEC-ECOS.

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Tourism Helps to Pick Up the Tab in Schoharie County

SCHOHARIE COUNTY — While some might think of Schoharie County as a quaint, quiet neighbor lacking the big 'hook' of nearby regions, recent data suggests otherwise. The latest tourism impact report commissioned by I Love New York reveals a surprising hero in the local Schoharie economy: the tourists themselves. Thanks to the $106 million spent by visitors in 2023, every household in the county enjoys a $997 tax break—proof that tourism here is more than meets the eye.

Schoharie County, known for its rolling hills, scenic farmland, and unspoiled landscapes, has proven to be a strong contender in New York's tourism scene. “Schoharie County, with its rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage, has always been a magnet for prosperity," said Cassandra Harrington, CEO of the Destination Marketing Corporation for Otsego and Schoharie Counties. "The recent data underscores the undeniable truth that our visitors are not just guests but invaluable investors, casting a positive ripple effect across our small businesses, tax base, and overall local economy. In the era of remote work, our rural charm is not just a sanctuary for tourists but also a beckoning call for potential future residents, offering the pristine air, water, and expansive open spaces that are becoming increasingly coveted."

Key Findings from the Recent Tourism Impact Report:

●      Tax Savings for Locals: Without tourism-generated state and local taxes, the average household in the county would have to pay an additional $997 to maintain the same level of government revenue.

●      Big Regional Spend: The Central New York region, including Schoharie County, saw $5 billion in direct tourism spending in 2023.

●      Local Economic Impact: Visitors spent $106 million within Schoharie County, with lodging and second homes accounting for $40 million and $33 million respectively, marking a 161% increase over 2019.

●      Sector Highlights: Food & beverage spending hit $19 million, retail and service stations $10 million, and recreation brought in $2 million.

●      Job Support: The tourism sector directly supported $25.2 million in labor income in Schoharie County.

Behind these impressive numbers is the work of the Destination Marketing Corporation (DMC), which uses data to make informed decisions on how to best allocate marketing resources. DMC’s strategic use of analytics helps pinpoint where marketing dollars will have the greatest impact, driving more visitors and boosting the local economy.

"In early 2023, we recognized the need for a comprehensive review of Schoharie County's tourism potential," said Josiah Brown, also known as "The New York Sherpa," who led an assessment by Famous Destination Marketing, Inc. "We discovered a huge opportunity for rebranding and repositioning Schoharie County to attract a broader audience, particularly in the post-pandemic landscape."

Moving forward, DMC's strategy includes corridor-driven marketing, leveraging micro-influencers, and generating engaging content over traditional advertising. "Tourism is more than just numbers; it's about advancing our rural communities," concluded Ms. Harrington. "We are on the cusp of transforming Schoharie County into a premier destination, bringing benefits not just for tourists but also enhancing the quality of life for our residents."

For more details on tourism strategies and the complete impact report, please contact Ryan Geraghty. To stay updated on tourism activities and initiatives, visit UpstateVacations.com or follow us on Facebook @VisitSchoharie and Instagram @visitschohariecounty.

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Model T in the Rain

The Stewart family of Schoharie gasses up their Ford Model T at the Quickway in Cherry on a rainy night Saturday. Photo by David Avitabile.

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS - HALCOTT

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 103 of the General Municipal Law, the Town Board of the Town of Halcott, Greene County, New York, is seeking bids for the installation of a flag pole with a concrete pad, landscaping and shrubs. Bids to be sent by mail to Town of Halcott, 264 Rt. 3, Halcott Center, NY 12430. Bids are to be received at the office of the Town Clerk located at the Halcott Town Grange Hall, 264 County Route 3, Halcott Center, NY 12430, no later than 4 pm on the 16th of September 2024.  Bids will be opened and read aloud at the Regular meeting of the Town Board at 6:00 pm on the 16th day of September 2024 to be held at the Halcott Town Grange Hall, located at 264 County Route 3, Halcott Center, NY 12430.  

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Local Organization Phoenix Web Revives Hunter's Community Fridge

The structure that will become the new home for Phoenix Web’s Community Fridge, which will be located less than 300 feet from its original location in Hunter. Photo courtesy Phoenix Web Collective.

By Max Oppen

HUNTER — In the heart of the Village of Hunter, a vital resource for those in need is on the brink of resurrection thanks to community efforts and Phoenix Web. The Community Fridge of Hunter, which operated from 2022 until May 2024, provided free pantry items and refrigerated and frozen goods to low-income and at-risk members of the community. After a brief hiatus, the Fridge is set to make a comeback but needs the community's support.

The Fridge, initially run by Phoenix Web Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization based in Hunter, operated out of an unused garage behind the Hunter firehouse. The garage, owned by the Catskill Mountain Foundation (CMF), was the perfect spot for this essential service. With the help of the Kaaterskill Methodist Churches, the Fridge was stocked with goods donated by local restaurants, cafes, and other eateries, and operated 24/7 without issue. For many, the Fridge was a lifeline, offering food to families struggling to make ends meet, individuals in temporary crisis, and even those picking up meals for homebound, disabled, or elderly residents.

In May 2024, the Fridge was forced to close due to insurance changes with the CMF. This closure left a noticeable void in the community, as many residents have expressed how much they miss the service. Recognizing the urgent need for the Fridge, the Phoenix Web has been diligently working to find a solution.

Now, the Fridge is poised for a new beginning. And Phoenix Web has had a ton of support with this effort. There are plans to install a shed behind the paramedics' building on the corner of Bridge and Main Streets in the Village of Hunter, less than 300 feet from its original location. According to Abrahamsen, the shed arrived at the location on Tuesday. 

However, the project comes with significant costs. The shed, along with moving expenses, will cost $6,000. Additionally, the shed requires an electric hookup, estimated between $1,500 and $3,000, and must be added to Phoenix Web's business insurance policy, an additional $600.

Despite the challenges, there is hope. The project has received support from community leaders, including the Village of Hunter, and several large donations have been pledged. Volunteers have also stepped up, offering their time and effort, while local hardware stores have donated materials. Abrahamsen said, “My father, Sean Byrne, Daryl Mercer with the Bruderhof, Jonathan Gross, Ruby Reed, Ed Ezrick, and Michelle Yost have been busting as much butt as us at the Web.” However, more help is needed to reach the fundraising goal of $8,800.

Mars Abrahamasen and Phoenix Web are calling on the community to help bring the Fridge back. "Every dollar matters," said Abrahamsen. "This Fridge was a lifesaver for so many on the Mountaintop, and we need it now more than ever."

If the fundraising goal is met, any excess funds will be used to stock rarely donated items, cover future electricity costs, or create a fund for the Fridge's ongoing operations.

The Community Fridge is run by the Phoenix Web Collective, a free store at 7947 Main St. in the Village of Hunter. As of August 27, the fundraising campaign has raised $2,680 out of the $8,800 needed.

To support the Community Fridge and help bring it back to life, donations can be made here: bit.ly/FreeCommunityFridge.

With the community's help, the Fridge can once again become a vital resource for those who need it most.

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Bruised Fruit: Hiding the Truth #3

By Max Oppen

TANNERSVILLE – Sobriety is so simple—yet so difficult. You have to be willing to reach out for help. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is one method that works for many. For those who don't know, these meetings are a gathering spot, often in churches, where the only requirement for membership is the desire to get clean and stay clean. The emotional turmoil that results from using drugs for decades is overwhelming, and it's easy to feel crushed under the weight of it. Hence the well-worn NA saying, "One day at a time." For me, it's often one hour at a time.

The first step of the Twelve Steps states, "We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction, that our lives had become unmanageable." In other words, you have to be humble enough to admit you aren't in control when you pick up a drug or a drink. I thought I was in control for decades but couldn't have been further from the truth. It took me many years to finally realize this. Even as a "functioning addict," I thought I had control. I didn't. It took hitting rock bottom repeatedly to understand the drugs were controlling me.

There's something powerful about sitting in a group with others who have gone through the same horrors. At my last meeting, I shared where I was, and people listened. Some, with years of sobriety, cried. Some approached me afterward, thanking me for "keeping it green" for them. In NA, you're encouraged to collect phone numbers from other addicts and check in with people. You're also encouraged to get a sponsor to guide you through the Twelve Steps as soon as possible. That's something I've been avoiding. I've been avoiding meetings, too.

It's strange—I would drive five hours to score drugs, but I struggle to find two hours for a meeting after work. I went to my third meeting since my overdose on July 28 tonight (last Saturday) in Saugerties. There's always hesitation before I go, but I always leave those meetings feeling better. I procrastinate with most things—except when it comes to drugs—getting clean means building new routines, making new friends, and forming healthier habits. One of my therapists once told me that after a relapse, it's like I'm standing on top of a derailed train, surveying the wreckage.

Getting sober is an emotional rollercoaster. I cry over everything I've lost, sometimes triggered by the slightest thought. But after the tears, there's hope for the future. It's so healthy to cry. In early sobriety, recovering people with an addiction and drug counselors often talk about the "pink cloud" phase—a feeling of euphoria, or what I'd call feeling manic. But that feeling doesn't last long, and then the thoughts of using start to push their way in. Along with those thoughts comes a deep regret for all the bad choices I've made. We addicts tend to forget the hell we created for ourselves and our loved ones. Instead, we romanticize drug use—the ritual, the danger, the excitement. But that mindset is dangerous.

I've relapsed so many times that I'm scared of myself. Why would this time be any different? The truth is, it's about taking it one day at a time. I haven't used today, and tomorrow is another day with its own challenges, highs, and lows. I've failed to stay sober many times, but I've never quit trying. Even if I relapse again, I'll keep fighting.

Relapse doesn't just happen when you pick up a drug. It starts days before, in your mind. One minute, I'm going about my life, taking care of my responsibilities, and the next, I find myself in a trap house, surrounded by strangers. These places are dangerous. I remember one in Greenport, Hudson, where two men were cooking crack on the stove, wearing full face masks and all-black clothing. I've smoked crack in houses littered with guns and super paranoid people. I've done drugs at the homes of couples with young children, hiding in tiny, windowless rooms.

Looking back, I can't believe the risks I took to get high. And much of this happened in the last three years. When COVID hit, I went on a two-year binge that ended with me getting kicked out of my mom's house because my behavior was so erratic. I had totaled my car driving up Route 23A after an all-night binge of smoking crack and taking Xanax. I fell asleep at the wheel, hit a boulder, went airborne, and crashed into a tree at 50 mph. Miraculously, I walked away with a slight friction burn on my hand from the airbag. Some say drunk or high drivers don't tense up in a crash, which is why we sometimes walk away with fewer injuries than sober folks. I don't know if that's true, but surviving that crash feels like a miracle. Unfortunately, even that didn't snap me out of my addiction.

That's about the time when my family and friends saw what was going on with me. And it wasn't pretty. I would stay up for days, hallucinate, and experience delusions. I would see little cameras attached to cable cords snaking down from my drop ceiling. It was so real. I remember asking a friend to record what I saw - tiny mechanical cameras that looked like insects. I watched the video with a clearer head and realized I was losing my mind.

As I write this, it's Monday evening, and a friend just texted to ask if I wanted to attend an NA meeting. I told him I couldn't because I had deadlines and a ton of articles to write, including this column. Some might say that's an excuse, that sobriety should be my only focus. But I disagree. Yes, sobriety is critical, but so is paying my bills. I've been working manual labor jobs for the past two weeks, making it challenging to get my articles in. Last week, I only had two published in the paper. Freelance reporting pays little, and we certainly don't earn a living wage for the effort we put into informing the community. This isn't a swipe at my employer - it's simply a fact.

Too few businesses in Hunter and Tannersville advertise with us, limiting our article output. It's strange—many businesses love being profiled, but when I reach out asking for support through ads, I'm often ignored. This isn't a criticism of the businesses, just the reality of the industry. It's like that everywhere.

As of Monday, September 16, I've got 50 days of sobriety—one day at a time. If you're looking for help, there's an app called Meeting Guide that can help you find NA or AA meetings near you. Here are the links:

For iPhone users: https://apple.co/4dbpZNo

For Android users: www.bit.ly/AndroidMeetingGuideApp

During the pandemic, NA and AA meetings went virtual, and 24/7 Marathon Meetings were a lifesaver for many, including me. They are still around, so if you're interested, here are the links:

AA 24/7 Marathon Meetings on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2923712604

NA 24/7 Marathon Meetings on Zoom: www.nana247.org

There are also international versions of these 24/7 meetings, which are incredible. You can hear stories from addicts in India, the UK, Australia, or Brooklyn all around the clock. The stories remind me I'm not alone. Many people have been where I am, and some have decades of sobriety, while others, like me, are just getting back on track. Just Google it - they're easy to find. If you've never tried these virtual meetings, I highly recommend giving them a shot. Be willing to try new things, make yourself uncomfortable, and take advice from those who've climbed out of addiction and become sober, contributing members of society.

This is just the third Bruised Fruit column—there are many more to come - I'm just getting started. My editor has been forwarding me emails from readers praising my "brutal honesty." This is a beautiful feeling because it's actual proof that I'm making a difference. So stick with me, share these columns with those in similar situations, and please support local journalism. Shoot me an email if you want - oppenmax@gmail.com. Till next time.

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