Dr. Adrian Kuzminski, moderator of Sustainable Otsego, recalls growing up in western Pennsylvania and later attending Amherst College and the University of Rochester.

Dr. Kuzminski relates his move to the Cooperstown area and participation on the Otsego Town Planning Board and Motorless Otsego (Lake).

Dr. Kuzminski recounts his participation in the Green Party, the founding of Sustainable Otsego, and the fight against hydrofracking.

Dr. Kuzminski discusses his book, "Fixing the System: A History of Populism, Ancient and Modern ".

Following the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Oneonta Municipal (OMA) on September 17, 2016, the following discussion was held at the Greater Historical Society. David Brenner, former Mayor of Oneonta at the time Catskill Airways ceased its service to New York City, and Dennis Finn, current mayoral appointed Airport Commissioner, talk about their experiences with OMA throughout the years. Both were participants in the 50th Celebration.

Since my retirement in 2008, I have had ample time to consider the accomplishments of the 20 years of my presidency. But clearly what "we" achieved - with proper emphasis on "we" -- was done as a community, working together to make SUNY Oneonta grow from good to great. So this conversation is dedicated to all staff, faculty, students. alumni and friends who worked so hard to make our collective dreams come true. I thank my long time colleague Gary Wickham for joining in this review.

Albert Colone recalls programming at Neahwa Park as well as the formation of the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta.

Continuation of the conversation with Albert Colone.

Alice Siegfried recounts the history of the Oneonta peace movement, beginning in the 1970s.

Alice Siegfried tells of her career as a potter and her garden.

Antonio Avanzato recalls the family coming to Oneonta from Sicily via NYC, his father's tailoring career, and the family restaurant businesses (including the Italian Kitchen and Stella Luna).

Antonio Avanzato recounts the preservation of the old Oneonta railroad station and the Voice of New Italy radio program.

Arnie Drogen recalls growing up in Oneonta, development of his interest in drama, higher education, and travels.

Arnie Drogen recounts the history of Drogen's Home Furnishings and Drogen's Electric in Oneonta, beginning with his parents Paul and Mildred.

Continuation of the conversation with Arnie Drogen.

Architect Arturo Vasquez, a member of the firm that designed the Science I building on campus, discusses his childhood in Mexico and architectural philosophy.

Continuation of the conversation with Arturo Vasquez, including how he approaches design.

Dr. Ashok Maholtra, SUNY-Oneonta Distinguished Teaching Professor of Philosophy, recalls growing up in India and his education.

Continuation of the conversation with Ashok Maholtra who discusses his experiences at SUNY Oneonta and the genesis of his Ninash Foundation.

Continuation of the conversation with Ashok Malhotra on the building of schools in India for underprivileged children.

Poet Bertha Rogers of Bright Hill Literary Center in Treadwell recounts her background, education, and time in New York City.

Bertha Rogers, Poet Laureate of Delaware County, recalls her move to the Catskills and the founding of Bright Hill Literary Center.

Bertha Rogers continues the conversation and describes her poetry and visual art.

The conversation concludes as Bertha Rogers describes Bright Hill and the "Word Thursdays" reading program. She also mentions anthologies like "Speaking the Words". She concludes with a reading from her work.

Betsy and Bryan Babcock tell their story of finding a farm in Franklin that became Handsome Brook Farm B&B. They also raise 3000 chickens and sell eggs through a cooperative.

Betsy relates the decision to expand the house and open a farm stay B&B.

Bryan relates his transition from hospital CEO to higher education at Hartwick College.

Bill Davis (Otsego Automotive and Country Club Chevrolet) recalls his time in the Army Airforce during WW II and the evolution of the car dealership business.

Continuation of the discussion with Bill Davis on the car dealership business.

SUNY-Oneonta Distinguished Service Professor Bill Harman recounts the history and educational mission of the SUNY-Oneonta Biological Field Station and Thayer Farm.

Continuation of the conversation with Bill Harman.

Continuation of the conversation with Bill Harman.

Oneonta Fire Chief Bob Barnes discusses his career, the development of emergency services in the area, and local reaction to 9/11/2001.

Continuation of the conversation with Bob Barnes. Includes his involvement in emergency response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005 the local flooding in 2006.

Growing up in rural New Hampshire, Bob worked after college with a crew rebuilding colonial homes and barns before receiving a master’s in cultural anthropology at the University of the Americas in Mexico. Thus he obtained skills of great use for his career as Director of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society (GOHS). He joined the GOHS Board in 2003, became Board President in the same year and has very successfully been GOHS Executive Director for about a decade. During his Directorship, he has raised over $1 million, used mostly for building renovations; built a dedicated board, along with dozens of volunteers; worked to create a city historic district; was elected a member of the city’s Common Council; and through all the programs, exhibits and archival development – fostered though the service of all those devoted to the Mission of GOHS – created GOHS as a thriving cultural hub of the city and region . He recently received the Albert Morris Award, presented by the GOHS Board for all his contributions.

Growing up in rural New Hampshire, Bob worked after college with a crew rebuilding colonial homes and barns before receiving a master’s in cultural anthropology at the University of the Americas in Mexico. Thus he obtained skills of great use for his career as Director of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society (GOHS). He joined the GOHS Board in 2003, became Board President in the same year and has very successfully been GOHS Executive Director for about a decade. During his Directorship, he has raised over $1 million, used mostly for building renovations; built a dedicated board, along with dozens of volunteers; worked to create a city historic district; was elected a member of the city’s Common Council; and through all the programs, exhibits and archival development – fostered though the service of all those devoted to the Mission of GOHS – created GOHS as a thriving cultural hub of the city and region . He recently received the Albert Morris Award, presented by the GOHS Board for all his contributions.

Judge Robert Harlem, noted local judge, recounts his life and times.

Judge Robert Harlem continues his conversation with Alan and touches on his community involvement with many organizations and being named Otsego County Citizen of the Year.

Bob Moyer describes his experience since he came to Oneonta in 1965 and his involvement with the Wilber Bank.

Bob Moyer continues his conversation with Alan and discusses his experience with the US Federal Reserve Bank in NYC and his volunteer work for Hartwick College.

Coach Zeh, NYS Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee, discusses his childhood in Jefferson, NY and his early coaching experiences.

Continuation of the conversation with Coach Zeh, including his time coaching basketball at Oneonta High School.

Program at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society on the history of Broad Street in Oneonta, with recollections of various individuals.

Continuation of Broad Street Memories.

John and Joan Brooks discuss Brooks BBQ in Oneonta.

Griffin and Fran Brooks relate the origins of Brooks BBQ, starting with a poultry farm in Stamford in the 1940's.

SUNY-Oneonta Emeritus Professor of Music Carlton Clay recounts his background, education at Yale School of Music, and career as teacher, trumpet player, and composer.

Carlton Clay relates the founding of the Catskill Conservatory with Charles Schneider.

Carlton Clay recalls his involvement with national level arts consultancies.

Continuation of the conversation with Carleton Clay, including his career as a composer.

Cheri Albrecht, former CEO of Opportunities for Otsego, recalls her career.

Continuation of the conversation with Cheri Albrecht.

Local author and radio host Chuck D’Imperio sits down with Gary Wickham for a chat about growing up in Sidney in 3 parts originally recorded March 31st 2011 and part of the Sunday Review Program on SUNY Oneonta’s public radio station WUOW

Local author and radio host Chuck D’Imperio sits down with Gary Wickham for a chat about growing up in Sidney in 3 parts originally recorded March 31st 2011 and part of the Sunday Review Program on SUNY Oneonta’s public radio station WUOW

Local author and radio host Chuck D’Imperio sits down with Gary Wickham for a chat about growing up in Sidney in 3 parts originally recorded March 31st 2011 and part of the Sunday Review Program on SUNY Oneonta’s public radio station WUOW

Chuck D’Imperio discusses his book: “Great Graves of New York” with Gary Wickham.

Chuck D’Imperio discusses his book: “Great Graves of New York” with Gary Wickham.

Chuck Schneider shares his experiences as maestro of the Catskill Symphony Orchestra over 37 years starting with his graduate school at Julliard.

Chuck Schneider continues his experiences with the Catskill Symphony Orchestra and other venues such as Turning Stone where he has worked with a member of the jazz ensemble Spyro Gyro.

Program at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society on the history of the CCC, including a conversation with Diane Galusha.

Continuation of the program at the Greater Oneonta Historical Association with recollections of the audience. Includes memories of Terry Davidson.

Cliff Warton, former SUNY Chancellor (1978 - 1987) and CEO of TIAA-CREF, talks about his days in SUNY.

Continuation of the conversation with Cliff Warton.

Continuation of the conversation with Cliff Wharton.

Former Oneonta High School basketball coach Tony Drago recalls growing up in Oneonta's 6th Ward, wine making, and working at the family grocery store.

Tony Drago shares his experiences in World War II, including time as a Prisoner of War.

Tony Drago recounts his coaching career at Duke University and his return to Oneonta to coach at Oneonta High School.

Dan Larkin looks back on his 50 year career with SUNY Oneonta. Growing up in Rome, Dan talks about his SUNY education at Brockport and the University at Albany. Arriving to the History Department in 1965, he sees many changes in student learning behaviors during his decades of teaching undergraduates. After to his service as a visiting administrator in the Provost’s office at SUNY Central, he then steered the academic programs of the College for over a decade as Provost himself. He talks about his research activities, especially his numerous articles, books and presentations particularly about the Erie Canal and its construction. Of course he is a man of wide interests as he alludes throughout the conversation.

Dave Brenner on his political career, including membership on the Otsego County Board of Representatives.

Dave Brenner discusses his 12-year term as Mayor of Oneonta.

During the week of May 3-9, 2010, SUNY Oneonta and the Catskill Choral Society sponsored a unique of festival of bringing awareness of the plight of refugees in Sudan, especially the Darfur region, which soon after became the country, South Sudan. On Saturday and Sunday, the Catskill Choral Society and CCS Girl Choir, Greater Plains and Center Street choirs, SUNY Oneonta Chamber Singers and World Percussion Ensemble, soprano Lorraine Hinds, joined English composer, narrator, and pianist David Fanshawe for two performances of African Sanctus, a multi-movement musical mass setting incorporating sounds from the African continent recorded during Fanshawe’s early field research, and set to original music from the western tradition. This interview reveals some of Fanshawe’s inspiration for the piece and includes a discussion of then President Barack Obama’s Kenyan heritage and the sounds captured in his father’s village incorporated in the piece. The interview is conducted by conductor Timothy Newton.

Denise Dailey and her husband own a summer home in Walton, NY. She discusses local issues like spider webs and her book about a visit to Pakistan in 2006 called "Listening to Pakistan".

Denise Dailey continues her conversation. She and her husband Tom are seasoned travelers. They have been off the beaten path in seven continents.

In part three of the conversation, Denise Daily describes her adventures traveling the Karakoram Highway from China to Pakistan as part of her book "Listening to Pakistan".

During this final part of the conversation, Denise Dailey describes her experiences in the remote and mountainous Hunza Valley in Pakistan where she was invited to tour a local school.

Dillon Maier (age 77 in 2012), "runner extraordinary" describes his experiences with athletics starting with football in high school. He started running on his own.

Dillon Maier has run 197 marathons including the Boston Marathon. He had to become his own doctor and nutritionist. He has to eat five meals per day.

Dillon talks about running, runner's high, and power lifting.

Dolores Wharton, retired foundation executive, recalls the time when Cliff Wharton was Chancellor of SUNY.

Downtown Memories: Program at the Oneonta History Center (GOHS). Includes memories of Bresee's and the Health Bar, clothing stores, restaurants, and Broad Street.

Continuation of the July 27 conversation. Memories of boxer Carl Dell, Broad Street, the D & H railroad, downtown stores, Oneonta radio.

Continuation of the July 27 conversation: Memories of movie theaters, downtown Oneonta characters, atmosphere, and stores.

A panel discussion featuring Dr Nancy Kleniewski, President of SUNY Oneonta; Dr Carly Ficano, Professor of Business and Economics, Hartwick College and Gary Herzig, Mayor of the City of Oneonta. The discussion is moderated by Gary Wickham, Lecturer in Mass Communications, SUNY Oneonta. Also included are comments and questions from the audience.

Jim Loudon, author of "Electric Lake Memories" and others reminisce about Electric Lake in Oneonta.

Elena Doyle recalls her life and her restaurant and bakery "Elena's Sweet Indulgence" in Oneonta.

Elena Doyle continues her conversation with Alan as she describes more about the restaurant "Elena's Sweet Indulgence" and how she came to win an award for women entrepreneurs.

Born and raised in Gilbertsville, Erna discusses the early struggles of her parents to support their family, her work to achieve success academically and a Dow Jones Journalism internship award which helped direct her career path. She did work for a local paper before moving to New Zealand in the early l970’s, where she gained notice writing about the energy crisis of l973. Moving again, while traveling the world, she settled in London and soon became the producer of the renowned “The A.M. Show”, broadcast by London Broadcasting throughout England and the continent. By 1981, she had moved again back to New York and married her busband, Tom Morgan.

Having been a successful producer, she also worked as a producer for NBC, during the years of such well known figures as Tom Brokow and Cameron Swayze. But because of her desire to be with Tom, she soon moved back up to our region in the late 1980's, where she launched another very succesful carreer as a broker partnering with Tom. (Her career in communications certainly played a role in her success as a broker.) She discusses in detail the work she did in obtaining licenses, establishing an office, developing and training a staff, and signing up clients for what is now known as Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. She also found time to serve on several non profit boards, including among others, Hartwick College, United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties and Glimmerglass Opera. Her numerous honors include Barron's Top 100 Women Financial Advisors and Otsego County Chamber Citizen of the Year. One award from the Girl Scouts of America in particular cites some reasons for her service and success: "courage, confidence and character."

Eugene Marner and Carole Lucia Satrina speak of their careers in the film industry and the origins of the Franklin Stage Company.

Continuation of the conversation with Eugene Marner and Carole Lucia Satrina, including a discussion on the preservation of Chapel Hall in Franklin.

Fred Hicken reminiscences about moving to Oneonta when he was very young and living with family members at 75 Center Street. He includes memories of his family and their relations; the large garden his family had at that address; going to Bugbee School; learning how to play the violin made for especially by Coral Griffin, a relative; how Thanksgiving was celebrated in the l930s; and finally about his work for and leadership of the American Legion. From time to time, his recollections were aided by his wife Ellie and by Bob Brzozowski.

Fred Hicken reminiscences about moving to Oneonta when he was very young and living with family members at 75 Center Street. He includes memories of his family and their relations; the large garden his family had at that address; going to Bugbee School; learning how to play the violin made for especially by Coral Griffin, a relative; how Thanksgiving was celebrated in the l930s; and finally about his work for and leadership of the American Legion. From time to time, his recollections were aided by his wife Ellie and by Bob Brzozowski.

Alan Donovan speaks with SUNY Oneonta Associate Professor Gayane Torosyan and her husband Hovhannes about the story of their immigration to the United States from the former Soviet Republic of Armenia. Hovhannes Torosyan works as Quality Control Director at Norwich Pharmaceuticals while his wife Gayane teaches in the Department of Communication & Media at Oneonta. During her studies in the doctoral program at the University of Iowa, Torosyan was separated from her family for a year and a half after they were denied entry visas to the United States.

Geoff Smith, of Medical Coaches Inc. in Oneonta, recounts the history of the business, beginning in Australia.

Continuation of the discussion with Geoff Smith on the world-wide Medical Coach business. Includes a recollection of a business trip to Iran.

George Brown recounts the soccer career of his father, Hall of Famer James Brown.

Soccer Hall of Famer George Brown discusses his career and the history of soccer in the U.S.

Continuation of the conversation with George Brown.

Greg Mukai discusses the history and practice of acupuncture.

Continuation of the conversation with Greg Mukai.

Dr. Gretchen Sorin, Director of the Cooperstown Graduate Program, recounts her background including her education at Douglass College and the Cooperstown Graduate Program.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Gretchen Sorin who speaks of her early career working in museums and the Cooperstown Graduate Program.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Gretchen Sorin on the Cooperstown Graduate Program and the creation of exhibits.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Gretchen Sorin, including her publications, work with foundations, and fund-raising.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Gretchen Sorin, including changes in the Cooperstown Graduate Program over the years and future plans.

Harry Bradshaw Matthews, associate dean and director of the U.S. Pluralism Center at Hartwick College and executive director of the United States Colored Troops Institute for Local History and Family Research, relates his education, background, and research on African American history.

Continuation of the conversation with Harry Bradshaw Matthews.

Conversation with 97-year old chemical engineer Harvey Slatin on the Manhattan Project (the World War II research and development project that produced the first atomic bombs)

Harvey Slatin recalls attending Manhattan Project seminars with J. Robert Oppenheimer. In addition, he tells of a ghost in his New York City house.

Harvey Slatin recounts his work as a photographer of Native Americans in the 1950's. In addition, he talks of his recent novel.

Helen Rees recounts the history and renovation of the Swart-Wilcox house in Oneonta.

Continuation of the story of the Swart-Wilcox house.

Session from the history center.

Bill Simon’s recollections of his days as faculty-in-residence at the old nurses building.

Reactions to a bunker visit with Nancy Cannon and Bill Simons

Continuation of the discussion with Hugh and Eleanor Mcdougall on James Fenimore Cooper.

Cooperstown native Hugh Macdougall recalls his career as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service from 1958 - 1986, including service in Africa and South America. Eleanor Macdougall tells of life as the wife of a diplomat.

Hugh Macdougall (Cooperstown Village Historian) and Eleanor Macdougall discuss authors James Fenimore Cooper and his daughter Susan Fenimore Cooper.

Demonstrating why she has been so successful communicating about and leading the library as its Director, Tina Winstead reminds us of what the world was like in 1917 when the library was first started through the generosity of the Huntingdon family. The library has a unique charter and solid budget. It is also assigned the task of overseeing the surrounding park, such a marvelous green space adjacent to the downtown historic district. She discusses circulation and attendance numbers as well as a variety of popular services and programs. For example, the benefits of the 4 county library consortium. Other attendees, several of them members of the Friends group or Board Members, also comment about their contributions and past memories

Artist Jack Beal, who moved to the Oneonta area from New York City, discusses the evolution of his career.

Continuation of the conversation with Jack Beal, including discussion of his mural "The Return of Spring" at the New York City Times Square subway station.

Continuation of the conversation with Jack Beal and Sondra Freckleton. The oil painting "Jack's Equipment" by Jack Beal and the watercolor "Bedtime Still Life" by Sondra Freckleton are on display on the first floor of Milne Library at SUNY-Oneonta.

Dr. Jack Iversen discusses the creation of Project 85 which provided help for substance abuse between 1971-1987 in Oneonta.

Dr. Jack Kotz, distinguished chemistry professor at SUNY Oneonta for 35 years, discusses his education and early experiences as a chemistry professor.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Jack Kotz, including his career in textbook publishing.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Jack Kotz, including his work with the Chemistry Olympics.

Distinguished SUNY Teaching Professor Dr. Jay Fleisher presents an informed view of climate change, beginning by making a crucial distinction between weather (immediate) and climate (long range). He points out an array of longitudinal measurements which demonstrate both the kinds and pace of change – warming of the oceans; diminishing glaciers; and hence rising sea levels. Disastrous results are already occurring, with worse to come. His takeaway is that the problem is too big and taking place too slowly for the public to accept. And, indeed, we may have already passed a tipping point.

SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor and long–time Chair of the Earth Sciences Department, Jay Fleisher began his career in oil exploration but soon changed, his direction, earned his PhD and arrived at Oneonta in the late l960’s. His first experience on the Juneau ice field guided him into glacial research in Alaska, primarily at the Bering Glacier. His research involved important discoveries about glacial surges and was in effect an early exploration of the intense interest now in climate change. He continued his research activities in retirement and from 2010 to 2013 served as the Director of the Juneau Icefield Research Program

Jim Devlin, editor of "Hometown News", discusses his early experiences in journalism.

Continuation of the conversation with Jim Kevlin.

Continuation of the conversation with Jim Kevlin.

Jim Mullen, local Oneonta author and humorist, provides an entertaining interview.

Jim Mullen, author of "Dumb Men Jokes", continues his humorous life tale.

Dr. Joan Iversen, Professor Emeritus of History discusses her education and the women's movement.

Continuation of the conversation with Dr. Joan Iverson and discussion of the development of the Women's Studies Department at SUNY-Oneonta.

Joe Campbell, the "Grand Old Man of Radio", recounts his radio career, beginning with WDOS in Oneonta in 1947. Includes comments on the changes in radio over the years.

Continuation of the conversation with Joe Campbell.

John McCoy from Franklin Mountain and local beekeeper and host of the Honey House relates his life of beekeeping.

John McCoy continues his discussion of bees, apiary, and the natural history of these vital insects.

John McCoy discusses McCoy Honey (produces 20,000 lbs of honey per year).

John McCoy talks about his childhood in the 6th Ward of Oneonta (River Street). He also discusses current problems of bee disease and mortality.

John Remillard has served for 27 years as President and CEO of A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital and will be retiring in December, 2015. In our conversation, John talks about his growing up in the North County in Peru, N.Y. and his early career in health care. Since coming to Fox in the spring of l988, he has accomplished a number of significant accomplishments. Among these are the renovation of the operating suite; the purchase and opening of the Fox Care Center in l997; and the conversion of all of Fox’s rooms to single occupancy, more spacious ones. He also comments on the general changes occurring in medical services in the past few years and those yet to come.

Attorney John Scarzafava recalls growing up in Oneonta, attendance at St. Bonaventure University and St. Mary's University Law School.

John Scarzafava discusses his legal career and publications.

John Scarzafava on his philanthropic activities.

Alan interviews John Stevens, of Stevens Hardware Store, one of the oldest stores in Oneonta, started in 1881 by his father, Waldo Stevens.

Rev. Ken Baldwin (retired) recalls his life and times starting with his early days in Fayetteville, NY.

Rev. Baldwin continues the conversation and relates his decision to attend Union Theological Seminary after a year in Scotland. He attended the Democratic National Convention in 1968 and the Black Panther trial in 1971.

Rev. Baldwin remembers his participation in the 1968 Democratic National Convention, his career as a minister and work with refugees, involvement with the Black Panthers, and future plans.

Kim Muller, former Oneonta Mayor and member of the Otsego Board of Representatives, recounts her political career.

Kim Muller recalls her career as Mayor of Oneonta.

Kim Muller continues discussion of her political career, including memories of people and attendance at national conventions.

Alan Donovan and Gary Wickham recount the history of WUOW radio and the broad range of Kitchen Table Conversation interviewees. WUOW, initially funded by a grant, began with Bob Kafarski of SUNY-Oneonta obtaining a low-power FM license in 2006. Alan and Gary tell of WUOW employees Brian Levis, Rebecca Hoey, and Mark Simonson. The conversation also relates the history of local radio in Oneonta, including memories of Joe Campbell. WUOW 91.3 FM was founded after the disasterous regional 2006 flooding as a means of providing emergency broadcasting service to the local community; the importance of support for local public radio was stressed. This was the last KTC program broadcast. The station was closed down soon after this show aired.

Conversation with photographer and photo retoucher Lady Ostapeck, who had a studio in Fly Creek.

Les Grummons, owner of the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home in Oneonta, recalls growing up in Owego, the founding of his funeral home, and the funeral business.

Continuation of the conversation with Les Grummons on the funeral business.

Continuation of the conversation with Les Grummons on the funeral business.

Continuation of the conversation with Les Grummons, including his work in the community.

Retired SUNY Oneonta psychology professor Lesley Diehl on writing a mystery novel.

Continuation of the conversation with Lesley Diehl.

On March 21, 2015 the Greater Oneonta Historical Society presented a discussion of its display called "Lost Oneonta." Mark Simonson, city historian, gave an over view of the buildings featured and then members of the audience offered their memories. The buildings discussed included the Stanton Theater, Old Main, Academy Street School, the Roundhouse, and, of course those on Broad Street.

Marian Mullet relates the story of PathFinder Village, a residential community for people with developmental disabilities in Edmeston.

Mark McGough, President and CEO of Ioxus (manufacturer of ultracapacitor technologies in Oneonta), recounts his education and experience as an engineer.

Continuation of the discussion with Mark McGough on the growth of Ioxus.

Mark McGough explains ultracapacitors and their applications.

Mark Simonson recalls his life in Oneonta. He grew up here and later moved back to the family house in 1997. He was a producer for KTC until 2011.

Mark Simonson describes his experience in radio, starting with his studies in broadcasting at Onondaga Community College. He discusses radio lore including history (KDKA Pittsburgh) and the development of transistor radios.

Mark Simonson continues his conversation, describing his early years, his work for non-profit organizations such as the March of Dimes and National Multiple Sclerosis Association. Also, his work as an interpreter at the Cooperstown Farmers Museum.

Mark Simonson discusses his role as Oneonta city historian through his columns in the Oneonta Daily Star twice a week. He divides columns between events through WW II and from WW II through 1992. His oral histories have included locals such as Tony Drago.

Mary Lou Ryan, who booked lectures and concerts for the SUNY-Oneonta Student Center, remembers famous people who came to campus.

Continuation of the conversation with Mary Lou Ryan.

Vocalist Mary-Anne Ross remembers her childhood and the music community in Oneonta.

Mary-Anne Ross recounts her education, time at Julliard School, and career in New York City.

Mary-Anne Ross recalls her return to Oneonta, care of her parents, and the continuation of her musical career in Oneonta.

Mike Ranieri, professional balloonist, relates his passion for hot air ballooning.

Mike Ranieri continues his conversation with Alan recalling memorable balloon flights and the balloon festival at Neahwa Park in Oneonta

In this first of three conversations, Mike details his growing up in West Davenport, going to Oneonta High school, then receiving his degree from SUNY Oneonta. After teaching for several years at the high school level, he then went on to earn his PhD. and taught at the University of Maine in Environmental Sciences. Much of this and the following discussions are based on information in his recently published book: A Journey Toward Environmental Stewardship.

Mike talks about his move to D.C. in 1975 to work at the National Wildlife Federation, the Audubon Society, and the National Research Council. After 5 years working for these agencies, he was offered and accepted an offer at Tenneco Oil Company as Manager of Ecological Sciences and then Director of Environmental Health and Safety.

Mike discusses his work with Transco, another oil company installing pipelines. In 1995, he began his work with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, after being appointed Commissioner by the Governor. After that he moved to become Director of the national Ruffed Grouse Society. Throughout these discussions, he details important principles of environmental stewardship.

Alan Donovan interviews Milly Parish, who recalls growing up in Oneonta, life on the family farm, SUNY-Oneonta, her teaching career, and inception of the Plains at Parish retirement community.

Greater Oneonta Historical Society Discussion: The discussion ranged widely from the beginnings of classical groups in Oneonta such as the predecessor to the Oneonta Concert Association in the mid l920's, to famous Oneonta musicians to concerts with well known popular music figures often held on the SUNY Oneonta campus in the l970's. Such local groups as the Catskill Symphony and Catskill Choral Society were mentioned. Popular local figures -- Al Gallodoro, Jerry Jeff Walker and Larry Santos were remembered. And concerts featuring famous stars like Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel were remembered. Contributing to the conversation were Patrice Macaluso, Molly Swain and Peg Twasutyn.

A lively discussion occurred, beginning with a presentation by Tony Drago about his parent’s store, famous for its sausage. He was followed by Wayne Wright, Curator of the exhibit at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society, talking about neighborhood stores in Oneonta’ East End. Bob Wood Jr. then added his comments about running Woody’s Market for 17 years. Bruce Van Buren told us about his parents’ store on River Street and the number of chickens they tended for market. Other comments came from Liz Morley and Patrice Macaluso, who detailed the nature of immigration to Oneonta.

Nick Barberio remembers his growing up in Mohawk, New York as the son of a proud legionnaire. He joined the Navy at the age of 18 during World War II. Serving on the USS Vincennes II, his tour took him to the South Pacific, beginning in January, 1944. For his service he received a number of medals. When he returned to civilian life, he worked for a time in Ilion, before enrolling in SUNY Potsdam in teacher education. It was there he met his wife Mildred Clark. Soon after he received his graduate degree from St. Lawrence University, he joined the Education Faculty at SUNY Oneonta where he spent his career and raised his family of three sons.

Nick Lambros, long-time basketball and baseball coach at Hartwick College, recounts his time at Hartwick College and Oneonta High School. Includes audio from the dedication of Lambros Arena at Hartwick College, his alma mater.

Continuation of the conversation with Nick Lambros.

A wide ranging discussion took place with Gary Wickham leading the way, joined in by Al Colone, Liz Morley and Bob Brzozowski, among others. The original reasons for urban renewal down town came about because of the great increase in vehicular traffic and the proliferation of new shopping centers outside the city. General consensus then, as well as now, seems to be that the urban renewal efforts were a mixed blessing at best. One change bearing this out was the demise of Board Street, which at one point housed 31 establishments, including stores, restaurants, the YMCA and a hotel. Most of these commercial entities disappeared never to return. A notable exception was the YMCA. However good memories were prompted by the exhibit's numerous pictures of before and after changes.

Jamie Potter and Janet Powers discuss the beginnings of the beloved farm stand and home of the original Polar Bear ice cream machine.

Continuation of the conversation with Jamie Potter and Janet Powers, husband and wife owners of Pie in the Sky.

Live show at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society on March 28, 2009 on railroads. Includes interview with Joe Campbell.

Continuation of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society program. Includes interview with railroad worker and artist Tony Mongillo.

Continuation of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society program. Includes interviews with Fred Lewis, Susie Veen, Mike Ross, Fred Cleveland, and Jim Louden.

Rick Brockway, outdoor columnist for the Daily Star recalls his life and his interest in outdoor sports such as hiking, hunting, and fishing.

Rick Brockway, local writer, outdoorsman, and raconteur continues his story.

Rob Robinson, head of the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, reminisces about his childhood, education, and early years in public broadcasting in West Virginia.

Rob Robinson recounts his career in radio, both in Maine and at WSKG (Binghamton).

Rob Robinson discusses his work at the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce.

Robert Johnson of Franklin discusses the history of stone walls in the area as well as his work as a dry wall stone mason.

Robert Johnson tells of his large collection of vintage kitchen mixers and other appliances.

During his many years of leading enrollment management at SUNY Oneonta, Roger Sullivan’s accomplishments are extraordinary. Freshman applications grew from 6,400 to over 11,500; the mean high school average increased from 81.99 to 91.20; mean combined SAT scores (math/critical reading) grew from 996 to 1134; freshman/sophomore retention rose from 60.2% to 87.4%; four year graduation rates went from 27% to 55%; six year graduation rates rose from 40% to 68%; underrepresented student enrollment increased from 8.2% to 20.3% of new entering students; and overall undergraduate enrollment grew from 5,136 to 5,863. A secondary, but nonetheless important outcome of SUNY Oneonta’s enrollment management initiatives, had been the College’s rise in a host of national rankings, most notably from Tier III status in in the US News and World Report College rankings to Tier I and Top 10 Northern Public/Masters institutions.

Anna Marie Lusins-McLachlan talks about her experience with Rotary.

Conversation with former Mayor David Brenner and George Silvernail discuss their experiences with Rotary.

Sam Nader recalls growing up on River Street in Oneonta, NY.

Sam Nader remembers his political career, including his time as Mayor of Oneonta.

Sam Nader on bringing baseball to Oneonta.

Further discussion with Sam Nader on baseball in Oneonta.

Sid Levine recalls his early years at the Palace Theater in Oneonta and later career as a car dealer in Oneonta.

Sid Levine recounts bringing baseball to Oneonta, the Jewish community in Oneonta, and his community service.

Watercolorist Sondra Freckleton discusses meeting her husband Jack Beal, her training, and artistic career.

Stacy Packard has the honor of being named a winner of the Women's Master Physique and Woman's Open Physique at the OCB Atlantic Body Building Championship held in Syracuse in late March. Now a Fitness Trainer at Foxcare Fitness, Stacy talks about her diet, training routines and what it takes to become such a champion. In our conversation she certainly reveals the drive, determination and devotion to become a champion. A trade secret: before beginning a posing routine for the judges, most body builders enjoy a... Reeses Peanut Butter Cup.

Stephen Joseph, photographer and author of the "Oneonta 360" book, talks about his childhood in Oneonta, education, and photography.

Continuation of the discussion with Stephen Joseph. He discusses his life in the Bay Area of California and how he got started with the 360 style of photography.

Continuation of the conversation with Stephen Joseph. Stephen discusses his books about John Muir and Yosemite National Park.

Continuation of the conversation with Stephen Joseph. Stephen discusses his current projects.

Discussion of Breedworks, their alpaca marketing company located near Oneonta.

Continuation of the conversation with Susan Muther and Hazen Reed on alpaca breeding and HaSu Ranch in the Town of Meredith.

Continuation of the conversation with Susan Muther and Hazen Reed.

Flora Beth Cunningham and Mary Johnson Butler discuss the history of barbershop singing and the Sweet Adelines of Oneonta.

Continuation of the conversation with Flora Beth Cunningham and Mary Johnson Butler.

Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell recall their introduction to Sharon Springs, including the purchase of the 1802 Beekman house, raising goats, and their first Thanksgiving. (note that the Beekman Boys won the reality show "The Amazing Race" in December, 2012)

Continuation of the conversation with the Beekman Boys, including their goat-milk soap, finding markets for local craftspeople, and working with Martha Stewart.

The Beekman Boys discuss their relationship, building the Beekman brand, and their cookbook

Many people in our community have vivid memories of experiences and events at the Oneonta Theatre. Although the theater has been providing live and film entertainment to local audiences for 122 years, most people’s memories span from the 1940s to the present time, when the theatre was both a live venue and a major movie theatre. The building has a grand history of its own. And it also figures in the cultural, economic, philanthropic and civic life of Oneonta, entertaining us since the days of vaudeville. As always, the history of the theater is a work in progress. Many thanks for this marvelous discussion go first to Patrice Macaluso, former Chair of the Drama Department at SUNY Oneonta and driving force behind the Friends of the Oneonta Theater (FOTOT). Also contributing are Kevin Herrick, Liz Morley and Bob Brzozowski and Gary Wickham.

Tim Johnson, proprietor of the Autumn Cafe, recalls his time as a student at SUNY-Oneonta and the development of the cafe.

Tom Foti tells of his childhood and the history of Foti Bakery on River Street in Oneonta.

Tom Foti describes the processing of bread, the expansion of the bakery, and life on River Street in Oneonta.

Investment advisor Tom Morgan discusses his career in radio and television (including his program "Money Talk") and his writing.

Tom Morgan continues the discussion of his radio and television career.

Tom Rathbone was the driving force behind the ongoing facilities transformation on the Oneonta campus for the last 30 years. His vision for his work was "To create the campus with the best darn facilities in the SUNY system." His work - 7/24 - has certainly resulted in that. The discussion ranged over topics from planning (Campus Master Plans), to on going challenges, to infrastructure, to renovation, to new construction. His success was informed by his ability to work with a wide variety of campus constituencies. An illustration of his success was his unique awareness that the changing of pedagogical styles would be a major influence in the renovations to be made in our academic buildings -- an illustration of form following function. He also realized that of all facilities, it was those in their curricular area (major) choice which made the most difference to perspective students.

Accountant Tom Trelese discusses fishing.

Tom Trelese on becoming a fishing guide.

Conversation with Tony Casale (member of the New York State Assembly from 1979 - 1995) on his background, education, political career, and political views.

Tony Casale recalls his time at CEO at New York State Liquor Authority and as Vice President at Lynn University.

Tony Mongillo, who was chosen Italian-American of the Year in 2009 describes his life growing up in Oneonta and activities like making wine.

Tony Mongillo continues his life story including his school days and service in the US Navy during WWII

Tony Mongillo continues his life story with recollections of his service in the US Navy in WWII and his later work for the D&H Railroad.

Tony Mongillo recalls his post-war experience working for the D&H Railroad and his interests as a golfer, artist, and raconteur.

Ula Kjaval, photographer, writer, and blogger who grew up on a farm in East Meredith talks about farming.

Continuation of the conversation with Ula Kjarval.

Virginia Yancey, former justice of the NY Supreme Court and director of the Love and Hope Animal Santuary, a respite and placement agency for cats in Franklin, NY, discusses her upbringing and years as a practicing lawyer and judge.

Continuation of the conversation with Virginia Yancey, including how the Love and Hope Animal Sanctuary was founded.

Continuation of the conversation with Virginia Yancey. She discusses the services that the Love and Hope Sanctuary provide including cat adoption, cat sponsoring, and free spay and neutering services.

Will Lunn, of the local musical group Horseshoe Lounge Playboys, talks about his childhood in Oneonta and the history of the group.

Continuation of the conversation with Will Lunn.

Bud Pirone, retired teacher and Principal at Oneonta High School, recalls growing up in Oneonta.

Bud Pirone remembers his undergraduate days at Syracuse University and his later career at Oneonta High School.

Bud Pirone shares memories of his career as Oneonta High School Principal and tennis coach.

Dr. William Streck, CEO of Bassett Health Care Network, recounts his background, medical career, and time at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown.

Dr. Streck discusses future plans for Bassett Health Care and the Columbia-Bassett medical student program.

Locals reminisce about their experiences at Woodstock in 1969 at Bethel, NY.

Continuation of the conversation with locals about their experiences at Woodstock.

Continuation of the conversation with locals about their experiences at Woodstock.