o ... To the opening of the Unadilla Valley pool in New Berlin to the public.
The availability is because of a partnership between the school district and the Norwich Family YMCA.
It won't interfere with school activities, as the open swims will take place _ five days a week _ in the early evening.
The YMCA, in general, has long been trusted to operate pools safely and effectively, so the concerns there are minimal.
While access to the pool won't be free, there are relatively cost-efficient membership fees, and individuals and families may also pay by the visit _ $1 and $3, respectively.
And, given the worries over obesity and health in this nation, another resource for exercise in the region is certainly welcome, especially as winter draws near and would-be swimmers see their options dwindle.
o ... To the local venison donation program, which held its annual fundraising dinner recently, drawing 68 sponsors.
Hunters and others donate venison and money to this cause run by the Conservation Alliance of New York.
The fundraising event helps pay for the costs associated with processing venison so that it may be given to local food programs, including those run by Opportunities For Otsego and Delaware Opportunities. Money is also used to buy ground beef to supplement the venison.
The cause has gained support over the years, in sponsors and dinner attendees, organizers said, and with good reason.
Though not all may support hunting, it has substantial roots in this area, and, with programs such as this, obvious community benefits.
o ... To the Earth Dinner, a
celebration of local agriculture and farming, held earlier this month.
As dairy farmers and others battle a changing market and economic realities, organic farms and buy-local movements have become potential saviors.
The Organic Valley cooperative held the dinner at the Brunner farm in Cooperstown. The dinner included many farmers who ship to the cooperative and featured an abundance of local food.
Such dinners allow farmers to come together, share information and see what is out there. For the general public, it's a chance to see that safe, nutritious food is available right here, not just from thousands of miles away and the risks associated with that.
When one adds in the costs, fiscal and environmental, of transporting food such long distances, it's clear local, organic options can only benefit our area.
We hope such dinners can recruit new farmers and customers, as well as encourage those already invested in the movement.
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