http://www.adirondackexpress.com/

Adirondack Express, Old Forge, NY (2024)

11/23/2024

As part of “Adirondack Christmas on Main Street” many of Inlet’s stores will be open for shoppers all weekend. Be sure to bring your receipts from these stores dated November 29-December 1 to the Inlet Information Office. For every $10 spent in Town of Inlet or at a business outside of Inlet that is a paid Inlet Area Business Association member, you will receive one free raffle ticket. At the end of the weekend, one lucky person will take home a basket full of items donated by local businesses.

Activities happening all weekend in Inlet include a book sale at the Inlet Public Library, make and take activity and free popcorn at Greg Rudd’s Pottery Studio, ACE’s Thanksgiving Day Sale at Inlet Department Store, a Scavenger Hunt throughout Inlet, and a drop box for Letters to Santa at Inlet Town Hall.

Most of the excitement in Inlet takes place on Saturday:

Mountain & Main will have a bonfire going from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They will have Paula’s cookies and an ornament-making station. Curt Osgood will also return there to play on his hammered dulcimer with Annie Simpson on guitar from 12-2 p.m.

The Inlet Youth Commission will host their Noah’s Ark Animal Workshop fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Inlet Town Hall. An assortment of plush animals, ready for stuffing will be available for purchase. Once stuffed, make a wish upon a rainbow star before tucking it safely inside your new friend. All come with a birth certificate and outfits are available at an additional cost.

At 12:30 p.m. Arrowhead Park will be busy with children looking for hidden candy canes (pictured) around the playground and ball field during Inlet’s 22nd annual Candy Cane Hunt. After they have found their allotted number of candy canes (compliments of Inlet Department Store) and collected their prize, they are invited into the Inlet Town Hall where the Inlet Youth Commission will have hot cocoa and popcorn ready for them. There will also be face painting and holiday movies playing on the large screen television and a drop box for Letters to Santa.

Screamen Eagle will have a make & take activity from 12-3 p.m. and Grow Brewery will hold a Tap Takeover from 1-5 p.m. with samples, sales & giveaways. Screamen will also offer lots of cheeses to sample from 3-5 p.m.

Inlet continues their search for a holiday pie to be proud of. Bake your favorite pie and bring it in to the Senior Room in Inlet Town Hall at 2:15 p.m. to share with other pie lovers and we will all determine which pie can be called “Inlet’s Best.”

Dress your pet in their holiday best and parade with us through town at 4 p.m. Parade starts at the parking lot between the Church of the Lakes and St. Anthony’s (be sure to sign in with Brittany during the line up!) and ends at Inlet Town Hall where we will ask all to pose for a group photo. Treats for all canine participants will be provided by Ruff Road Pet Accessories and prizes will be given to a few of the “best dressed.”

Lynn and Jim Keough will be doing the honor of lighting the town tree for us this year. Afterwards signing a few carols, everyone is invited into Town Hall for a visit with Santa and treats.

On Sunday, join us at Screamen Eagle at 3 p.m. for a No-Sew Throw activity with Amy Williams. Cost is $29-39, which includes all materials. Limited seating, so preregistration is required by contacting Amy at 315-404-8784.

Screamen Eagle will also be hosting a Happy Hour from 5-6 on Sunday, and at 5:30 p.m. the winner of the Holiday Basket Raffle will be drawn.

For a list of open shops, an updated schedule, and a list of what’s in the Holiday Basket go to InletChristmasonMainStreet.com.
— Photo courtesy of the Inlet Information Office

— By ADELE BURNETT, For the Express

11/22/2024

Special guest quizmaster Judy Ehrensbeck will take on the hosting duties for Tuesday Trivia at View arts center on November 26 from 6-8 p.m.

There is no charge to participate and complimentary snacks will be available. Drinks can be purchased at a beer and wine cash bar.

Trivia Nights consist of general knowledge questions in categories that can include history, cinema, sports, geography, popular culture, the arts, science, and more. Teams can consist of up to six people and all ages are welcome to attend.

Ehrensbeck is a recently retired teacher from the Town of Webb and has run trivia nights through the school for the last several years. This will mark her debut as a guest host during Tuesday Trivia at View.

Tuesday Trivia will have a special schedule during December. On December 3, View will welcome another guest quizmaster, Tim Leach Sr., to run trivia in the EcoArts Gallery. A special winter holiday-themed trivia night will be held two weeks later on December 17.

For more information, please visit ViewArts.org or call (315) 369-6411,. View is located at 3273 State Route 28 in Old Forge.

11/22/2024

Adirondack Express — 11/22/2024 e-edition

https://weeklyexpressnews.com/?p=10715

11/19/2024

Heart, hard work fuel Old Forge events —

— By Camry Liddle, For the Express

Recently, the Central Adirondack Association (CAA) celebrated its second year of reviving the Old Forge Oktoberfest. Although Oktoberfest has a longstanding history in town, organized by both the community and local businesses, this marks the second year the CAA has brought it back out of their passion for hosting events in Old Forge.

As someone who has worked for the CAA for two years, handling their marketing, advertising, and social media as an independent contractor, I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work that goes into each of their many events. What many may not realize is that the CAA operates entirely on volunteer power. These individuals give up weekends, evenings, and time with their families to bring events to life because they care deeply about our town. They aren’t compensated for this work—it’s their way of giving back.

What’s disheartening, however, are the critical comments made after these events: “Oh, it was okay, but they should’ve done this,” or “The CAA really should be doing that.”

Every CAA meeting is open to the public, and everyone is welcome to join, share ideas, or, even better, volunteer. If you have ideas or constructive feedback, they’d love to have you contribute to making these events even better. After all, it’s a small group of dedicated individuals setting up, taking down, and cleaning up after each event. They could be enjoying vacations or retirement, but they choose to help make these events happen because they believe the town wouldn’t be the same without them.

It’s also worth mentioning that an annual CAA membership fee is $100, which supports events that bring thousands of visitors and revenue to our town each year. The CAA’s events—including Snodeo, Snofest, Hollowed Forge, Oktoberfest, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Christmas on Main Street, Winter Carnival, the Labor Day Car Raffle and Fireworks, Dad Fest, and more—provide immense value to local businesses, likely much more than $100. Yet some still feel that more should be provided for their contribution, such as social media promotion, blog posts, and additional marketing efforts.

Once one event is over, the planning for next year’s event—and the preparations for the next one on the calendar—are already underway. The CAA works tirelessly, moving from one event straight into the next. They’re continuously organizing vendor applications, securing permits, drafting thank-you and sponsorship letters, writing articles, sharing updates on social media, designing flyers, managing raffle items and tickets, creating content, handling membership dues, recruiting volunteers, ordering supplies, designing logos, and more. There’s only so much a small, dedicated group can accomplish, yet their commitment knows no bounds.

After two years with the CAA, I have developed a deep appreciation for the volunteers who make these events possible. If these events bring value to your life or benefit your business, please consider supporting them by volunteering or donating. Every contribution helps keep these traditions alive and is a meaningful way to show gratitude for the hard work of the CAA team. Together, we can ensure these events remain a treasured part of our community.

Think about it—every CAA event offers free admission. Do you enjoy attending these events? Would you pay $5 for the experience? Have you created lasting memories with your family at these gatherings? Do you look forward to them each year? Does your business rely on the revenue they generate? As a nonprofit, the CAA truly appreciates any form of support, including volunteer hours.

I’d like to take a moment to recognize CAA President Judy Lonergan. Judy has been incredibly dedicated to our community, often sacrificing her own time and resources to make these events happen. Despite managing her store, Waggin’ it in the ADK, Judy frequently closes up shop, using her staff’s hours to help set up for CAA events, even when tourists are still in town. She spends countless hours and contributes financially to bring these events to life.

Her family from Syracuse also comes up to help during many events. You may have noticed some of the spectacular floats in last year’s Christmas on Main Street parade, crafted entirely by Judy and her family, who spend months planning themes, purchasing costumes, and gathering materials. This dedication has become a family tradition, with Judy hosting her relatives and overseeing the Christmas on Main Street preparations.

Although Judy isn’t a native of Old Forge, she brings a remarkable passion to her role as CAA President. When Judy’s term ends, it’s hard to imagine anyone filling her shoes with the same level of dedication. This sentiment holds true for the core group of about 8–10 volunteers who set up and tear down events year after year. They continue because of their deep connection to this town, but they wonder each year if it will be their last.

Since joining the CAA, Judy has revitalized community celebrations, bringing back Oktoberfest and Hollowed Forge, creating the Scarecrow Competition, introducing Dad Fest, and much more. This wouldn’t have been possible without event planner Laurie Barkauskas and an incredible team of volunteers: Gary Stabb, Dale Heroux, Diane Heroux, Dan Heroux, Dick Bird, Mike Ross, Leslie Beauchamp, Kurt Gardner, Ximena Gardner, Sharron Kleps, Dave Kleps, Nolan Ferris, Chloe Down, Mike Farmer, Robin Hill, Amelia Yoder, Trae Skinner, Tracey Down, Travis Kiefer, Zoe Gosnell, Paul Lonergan, Devin Daiker, Kim Farris, the Kiefer family and many others. Their efforts bring life, joy, and visitors to our town.

This dedicated group deserves our deepest appreciation. They pour their hearts and time into events that make our community special. Let’s show them the recognition they deserve and remind them that their work truly matters. Without their dedication, who else would step up to keep these events alive?

Pictured, from left, are Gary Stabb, Dale Heroux, Judy Lonergan, Chip Kiefer, and Diane Heroux; Laurie Barkauskas and Camry Liddle — Photos submitted

11/18/2024

Veteran instructor, Sara Meays, will guide you through the steps during her Barn Quilt Painting class on Saturday, November, 23rd from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at View arts center in Old Forge.

Barn quilts replicate traditional fabric quilt patterns and are a unique decor for anywhere in your home! Your barn quilt will be weatherproof and ready to display indoors or out! Barn quilts have been growing in popularity over the last several years, and while they were once only found on barns, they are now found on porches, sheds, camps, garages and houses, as well as an indoor decor. The display options and choices are unlimited!

The class is $75 for View members and $85 for non-members. Pre-registration is required, as space is limited. For more information or to register online, visit ViewArts.org.

View Arts Center is located at 3273 State Route 28 in Old Forge, New York. To learn more about View upcoming events, visit ViewArts.org, or call (315) 369-6411.
— Photo courtesy of View

11/16/2024

One Square Mile of Hope 2024 raises over $110,000 for targeted charities —

September 14, 2024, was a beautiful day, somewhat unusual for the One Square Mile of Hope event. Spirits were high as the paddlers gathered at appointed put-in places around the head of Fourth Lake. By 11:30, the majority of participants had arrived at the designated raft-up spot. Shortly after, the sound of a plane motor could be heard overhead. As if on signal, voices became hushed and a multitude of paddles were raised in salute. The plane, carrying photographer Kurt Gardner, circled the raft of boats several times, and a drone was spotted doing the same. A voice over the loudspeaker announced the time to disperse, and a loud cheer went up from the crowd as the boats slowly separated and headed for shore.

This was the 4th such event held in Inlet on Fourth Lake. The most recent predecessor having been in 2014, ten years prior. Inlet’s Guinness record of 3,150 boats had stood the test of time. Although groups in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and several other states had a go at the record, no one succeeded. This 2024 attempt had two major purposes: to try to break our own record, and to raise some money for worthy causes. Unfortunately (or not) Inlet’s 2014 record still stands. The number of boats in the 2024 raft-up totaled 1,853, certainly a respectable gathering for Inlet, the “Little Town That Could.”

However, the fund-raising purpose was a great success. This one event has distributed over $110,000 as of this date, with more to come. On October 10, recipients of the bounty were invited to a reception at the Screamen Eagle in Inlet to receive their checks from the One Square Mile of Hope core committee:

Golisano Children’s Hospital, Syracuse, NY – $33,000 with $5,000 to be used for their “Campaign for Child and Adolescent Mental Health”

First Responders:
Inlet Ambulance – $5,187.50
Eagle Bay Fire Department – $5,187.50
Inlet Fire Department – $4,687.50
Big Moose Fire Department – $4,687.50
Raquette Lake Fire Department – $4,687.50
Raquette Lake Ambulance – $4,687.50
Old Forge Fire Department – $4,687.50
Old Forge Ambulance – $4,687.50

On October 16, representatives of the OSM Committee traveled to Rochester to present Golisano’s Children’s Hospital of Rochester with $33,000 who also will used $5,000 of this for their “Campaign for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.”.

These gifts total $110,000.

Some may feel disappointed that Inlet’s 2014 record still stands, but those who braved the 54 degree, rainy and windy weather to accomplish that feat are happy to still be record-holders, and truthfully, they deserve it, don’t they?

P.S. Posters ($25} and jigsaw puzzles {$30} of the raft-up are available at onesquaremileofhope.com or from the Inlet Information Office, [email protected], 315-357-5501.

— By Margie O’Hara, For the Express

Pictured, members of the One Square Mile committee at Screamen Eagle with representatives from the 8 departments of first responders; and a representative of Golisano Children’s Hospital of Syracuse; who received donations from the money raised by the event; members of the OSM committee presented a check to a representative from Kiwanis of Farmington-Victor and a check to a representative from Golisano Children’s Hospital of Rochester. — Photos courtesy of Town of Inlet

11/15/2024

WEEK’S SPORTS SCHEDULE:

— Friday, November 15 —
GMODVB at Dolgeville at 4:30 p.m.

— Saturday, November 16 —
NYSPHSAA XC Championships at Queensbury, NY at TBD

— Monday, November 18 —
GMODVB at Adirondack at 4:30 p.m.
Winter Sports Season begins for all varsity teams

— Wednesday, November 20 —
GMODVB vs. Little Falls at Home at 4:30 p.m.

— Friday, November 22 —
GMODVB at Remsen at 4:30 p.m.

11/15/2024

Adirondack Express — 11/15/2024 e-edition

https://weeklyexpressnews.com/?p=10640

11/13/2024

A unique shelter that is used by one of the larger birds is the Ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus). After the first few snows falls, when there is an accumulation of fluffy snow, the grouse will “dive” head first into a snow bank and by leaving just a small hole and scent they can be fairly safe throughout the night. They conserve their body heat by staying in this cavity throughout the night and in the morning they literally explode out of the snow and begin a new day. The ruffed grouse seasonally will grow a short fringe of feathers along its toes which allows it the ability to walk on the top of the snow. For the grouse it is similar to us wearing a pair of snowshoes. Another plus is that it also provides extra insulation. — Photograph by Joan Herrmann

Read more:
https://shorturl.at/iWXP3

11/12/2024

Three Adirondack-based groups are offering owners of short-term rentals (STRs) a stipend to convert their properties to long-term rentals — a pilot program meant to help alleviate the region’s persistent housing shortage.

Adirondack Roots, AdkAction and LivingADK are leading the program, which is supported with $20,000 in grants from Adirondack Foundation and the Hudson Headwaters Upstream Fund as well as individual support. The groups will provide a stipend of up to $2,000 to 12 STR owners who switch to long-term leases for at least a year. At first, the program is open to STR owners in Elizabethtown and Webb/Inlet. Additional communities may be added to the program as funds permit.

“The region’s housing shortage is well documented, but we can’t expect to solve it completely with new construction,” said Sawyer Bailey, executive director of AdkAction, based in Keeseville. “By tapping into existing housing stock, we’re addressing one of our biggest challenges in a timely, economical manner.”

Megan Murphy, executive director of Elizabethtown-based Adirondack Roots, said the pilot will test three strategies to catalyze the conversion of existing units into long-term rentals. “Along with providing small stipends, we’ve developed customized educational resources and are offering one-on-one support for landlords,” she said.

To qualify, applicants must convert units currently in use as short-term rentals; the units must also be legally permitted dwelling units. Preference will be given to landlords with rental units in Elizabethtown and surrounding towns such as Keene, Westport and Lewis, and Webb/Inlet and neighboring towns. In addition to the stipend, staff will be available to help property owners navigate the changeover process and provide other assistance as possible.

Property owners who convert their STRs to long-term rentals often discover many benefits. For one, long-term leases deliver a predictable source of monthly income, while STR revenue fluctuates from month to month. Many also discover that long-term leases cost less to operate than STRs, as renters pay for utilities and other expenses.

“We have heard from people who are surprised by the amount of time, effort and money it takes to operate a short-term rental,” said Steve Underhill, director of economic development for LivingADK of Old Forge. “From frequent cleaning to serving as a concierge, owners find that running an STR can be like running a small hotel.”

Long-term rental benefits, and more, are included in a tool kit the groups recently produced to help people through the process. That toolkit, as well as an application for the program, are available at adirondackroots.org/our-services/for-homeowners. Applications will be accepted until funding is expended.

“For some people, operating an STR works out well, but it’s not for everybody,” said Bailey. “Our goal in producing this tool kit was to help people understand the pros and cons of short-term and long-term renting. We’re looking for a good fit to make the switch — it’s good for them, and good for their communities, to boot.”

The stipend is meant to defray some of the costs property owners may face when converting a unit to long-term renting, including legal fees and furniture storage.

“We’re excited to support this creative solution to a problem that has affected each of our communities,” said Lori Bellingham of Adirondack Foundation.

“We know that our communities can’t grow without adequate housing for the people who work here now, and those who would move here as well. This is just one way we’re trying to narrow that housing gap.”

— STAFF REPORT

11/11/2024

View arts center in Old Forge will host Trivia Night at on November 12 from 6-8 p.m. There is no charge to par-ticipate and complimentary snacks will be available. Drinks can be purchased at a beer and wine cash bar.

View’s Trivia Nights consist of general knowledge questions in categories that can include history, cinema, sports, geography, popular culture, the arts, science, and more. Teams can consist of up to six people and all ages are welcome to attend.

Tuesday Trivia at View will be held every other Tuesday throughout winter, with the next event being held on Nov. 26. For more information, please visit ViewArts.org or call (315) 369-6411. View is located at 3273 State Route 28 in Old Forge, New York.

11/10/2024

The Inlet Youth Commission held their annual Halloween Parade & Party on Friday, October 25, following another very successful Trunk-or-Treat at Inlet Community Church (pictured). Many costumed children paraded through town behind an Inlet fire engine, before heading over to the Inlet Volunteer Emergency Services building for costume judging and treats. The 2024 Halloween Costume Contest judges: Jill Marsh, Greg Rudd and Dan Keifer-Bach (pictured behind table).

This year’s M.C. Robin (Murdock) Moshier announced the winners, which were selected by the 2024 judges: Jill Marsh, Greg Rudd & Dan Keifer-Bach.

Costume Contest winners —
0-3 year old:
Give a Mouse a Cookie by Louisa Quinn
A League of Their Own by Kora Armendola
Fireman by Dean Pohl

Pre K-K:
Olaf by Alyssa Swick
Stormi by Vale Hennessy
Scary Clown by Damon Baumgartner

1st & 2nd Grade:
Unicorn by Dvanda Vertez
Decendent’s Chloe by Nyla Forestier
Narnia Ice Queen by Iris Smith

3rd & 4th Grade:
Penguin by Natalie Bamgartner
Harry Potter by Adeline Quinn
Wednesday Adams by Mariangel Marrufo

5th & 6th Grade:
Hockey Player by Theo Huebner
Death by Ryker Gabler
Jockey by Gabby Foster

All others:
Michael Jackson by Brenna Marleau
Dorothy by Adelaide Miller
South Park’s Kenny by Landan Russell

Groups:
League of Their Own
Mandalorian
Adams Family

Everyone who showed up in costume received a bag of goodies. Halfmoon cookies and apple cider were also served. Sponsored by the Inlet Youth Commission, who would like to thank all the volunteers who made this event possible.

— By Adele Burnett, For the Express

— Photos courtesy of the Town of Inlet

11/09/2024

View arts center in Old Forge welcomes any and everyone — from first timers to seasoned pros — to come and play co****le on November 11 from 7-9 p.m. in Gould Hall. It is free to play and a cash bar, homemade soft pretzels, and popcorn will be available for purchase.

View will be hosting free Co****le nights every Monday from 7-9 PM in November. It is a great chance for beginners to try out the popular tailgating game. For more competitive players, Gould Hall offers a great playing space out indoors and out of the elements.

View is looking to start a Co****le League (possibly 8-weeks) starting in January to give the community another indoor activity in the cold, snowy weather.

For more information about this and other programs offered at View, visit viewarts.org. View is located at 3273 State Route 28 in Old Forge. — Photo courtesy of View

11/08/2024

Daikers restaurant in Old Forge will be hosting its Annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Saturday, November 9.

The ceremony originally started as a celebration and a tribute to the Marine Corps birthday. Many years ago it expanded to include and honor all veterans. This year will be the 53rd year of the celebration at Daikers.

The event starts at 6 p.m. with the ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. The ceremony includes a remembrance of veterans who have passed away in the previous year and ends with a recessional by The Keystone Police Piper and Drums, from Gates, NY, and the playing of “Taps.” After the ceremony the band will remain to entertain.

According organizers, veterans of all military services as well as active duty personnel are welcome as well as family, friends and the general public.

11/08/2024

Adirondack Express - 11/08/2024 e-edition

https://weeklyexpressnews.com/?p=10545

11/07/2024

On Wednesday, November 13, at 1 p.m., the Legal Aid Society of Mid New York will give a presentation on “Legal Issues for Seniors” at the Old Forge Library.

Lisa Graniero, a staff attorney from the Legal Aid Society will talk about the importance of estate planning, wills, powers of attorney, and health care proxies. Legal Aid Society hopes to empower individuals and their loved ones through an overview of these import-ant legal documents.

Legal Aid is a not-for-profit law office providing free legal information, advice, and representation. There is no monetary charge for library events and all are welcome.

11/06/2024

According to a report from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, on Oct. 11 at 12:46 p.m., DEC Forest Ranger McCartney responded to a call for a hiker with a lower leg injury one-quarter of a mile from the Bald Mountain trailhead.

According to the report, Ranger McCartney located the 68-year-old from Fairport and splinted her leg. Ranger Hanno and the Old Forge Fire Department helped secure the hiker into a wheeled litter and brought her down to an Old Forge Ambulance by 1:16 p.m.

11/05/2024

Old Forge Library uses $58K in state aid for several projects —

Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) announced that eight public libraries in Assembly District 118 have been allocated approximately $459,182 in state aid for library construction funds.

These libraries include Old Forge Library (Mid York Library System), which was allocated $58,378.

The funds are from $34 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the FY2023-2024 State Budget and will help with projects such as roof replacement, the purchase and installation of alternative energy resources, new HVAC systems, windows, doors, lighting systems, electrical upgrades, electric vehicle charging stations, standby generators and the new construction or replacement of parking lots. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible for this funding.

Old Forge Library Director Linda Weal said the funding was towards several projects.

“We apply each year for NYS library construction aid,” said Weal. “In 2023, we wrote a request that included new stairs from our entry to the parking lot, and new stair railings that were crafted by our own local, Harlan Hunkins. Automatic door openers were installed by Stanley Doors with these funds. The new shed addition at the rear of the building will be completed in November by C2C Construction. New York State Library Construction Aid was used toward that project as well.

Weal continued, “As the library’s building approaches its 100th birthday in 2025, we look for ways to make our building and grounds more accessible to our community, and ensure its future for another 100 years. The library construction aid program is largely what makes that possible.”

Read more:
https://shorturl.at/eEV5w

— STAFF REPORT

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