The Weather CONTINUES to be the most interesting subject in the Okara Lakes! We have had some significant snowfall (about 5 inches last Friday, 1/19) and below zero temp and clear nights. We have been as low as -21. It was -11 this morning (1/22). Skiing and snowmobiling conditions have been interesting ranging from rought to "OK". We are not enjoying the snow we had last year. Just when we think we've got a start - it warms up and rains. As you can imagine, this make a mess out of everything. Underneath the snow cover is a thick layer of ice.
Businesses in town have not done a well as anticipated due to the unpredictibility of the weather. McCauley Mountain has worked very hard to try to overcome the difficult conditions.
At VIEW - there is an outstanding exhibition of photography called "Viewfinders".
Lets hope that the month of February brings a more exciting chapter to the winter season.
The Historical Association has a new display “Medicine Up North” - A tribute to the Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, & Other Health Care & Emergency Service Providers That Have Served Our Region During the Past Century. Wall displays include a timeline & brief biography of the physicians that have practiced in the Fulton Chain-Old Forge-Big Moose areas. Numerous artifacts in the cabinets illustrate the type of equipment used by doctors a century ago. The Exhibit highlights include pestilent diseases such as small pox, influenza, polio and tuberculosis cases that struck down early 20th century patients. Unusual accidents, unique in many cases to our remote wilderness, are illustrated with photographs and poignant stories.
Visitors will be intrigued with the display of medicinal concoctions and elixirs sold to cure all kinds of various ailments. Local pharmacists, dentists & dental instruments are also featured in the exhibit. Visit them at www.webbhistory.org
VIEW has an outstanding exhibit called “View Finders” showcasing works of renowned Adirondack photographers including Nathan Farb, Mark Bowie, Nancie Battaglia and Carl Heilman. Also newer voices in Adk photography will be showcased featuring work from Johnathan Esper, Lesley Dixion and Olf Forge’s Clark Lubbs. Running simultaneously will be an exhibit of work by stone sculptor Mark Horner. The show will run through March 3, 2012. Visit them at ViewArts,org.
If you’re looking for year end contributions, remember as a resident or seasonal resident, a contribution to either of the non-profits organizations above or remembering the service organizations in town such as the fire department, ambulance, EMT’s , Mac’s Safe Ride (to name a few) are always in need of funds.
WALT’S DINER has a new owner, After 18 years, Walt and Lesa Parent are calling it quits in the food industry. They are, however, still involved in a number of many other business ventures. The diner, which will still be called Walt’s, has been purchased by Dave Aliasso, former cook and owner of Aliasso’s Italian Deli in Old Forge.
Okara Lakes Association dues are due. Please check your records as some forgot to pay last year. The $15 check should be made out to The Okara Lakes Association, and sent to Mary Hofer, Box 583, Old Forge, NY 13420
OKARA TEE SHIRTS AVAILABLE - Just a reminder that Okara Lakes Tee Shirts are available at "Shelter" in Old Forge. Give Jim Keifer a call at 369-4465. Let him know you're from the Okara Lakes and receive a discount. I been wearing mine all winter and it's a quality shirt.
ANY PHOTOS? - since no one has sent anything in, you'll have to put up with my photos. I will carry the camera with me this week in an attempt to bring you shots around the Okaras.