Years Ago
This column, contributed by Skaneateles Honors English students from the class of 2022, is written to connect the past to the present by revisiting articles from years ago. The students would like to thank the Skaneateles Historical Society for providing the archives and Eagle Newspapers for publishing their words.

20 Years Ago
… An article published in the Skaneateles Press informs readers of various day trips being offered to local senior citizens. On April 13 they went to Beck’s Grove in Rome, NY for lunch and a show. On April 17 they went to Turning Stone Casino for bingo, and on May 17 they went to Olean for a Hawaiian Luau and a stop at the Fuller Brush Outlet. Today, “seniors” at Skaneateles High School who elect to take Spanish can participate in a trip to Spain. Every year since 1998 the seniors in Spanish classes have the opportunity to experience the culture and language in Spain. This year’s trip to Spain was unfortunately cancelled due to growing dangers of the Coronavirus. This deadly disease has caused a fear to fly and many airlines to cancel flights to certain countries. American, Delta, and United have all suspended service between the United States and China as well as the U.S. and Hong Kong through April and reduced flights to certain cities with coronavirus outbreaks. Perhaps our high school seniors should borrow from the senior citizen schedule and plan a few local day trips as a replacement for their cancelled international travel.

40 Years Ago
…On March 19 Skaneateles native Joe Ciccone made the paper about his tremendous bowling skills at just 4 years old. He bowled in the Marcellus Optimist Junior league with kids that were over twice his age. Even at this young point in his life Joe knew he wanted to be on the Professional Bowlers Tour and his parents were supportive and wanted to help him reach his aspirations. Fast forward 20 years and Joe is making his dream come true as in 2000 he was named Professional Bowlers Association rookie of the year. He bowled collegiately at Erie Community College and Arizona State University along with being inducted into the college bowling hall of fame. Owning 13 regional titles and a Regional Players Championship, Joe has done quite well for himself racking up over half a million in career winnings. If you are feeling motivated you can come on down to the Cedar House Bowling Alley in Skaneateles and try your luck in the lanes.

60 Years Ago
… In the March 18, 1960 issue of the Skaneateles Press many articles focused on the welfare and health of local citizens. This included mortality reports as well as accounts of many citizens being sick. Although the majority of the these talked about recovered townsfolk, a six year old passed after being very ill for a long period of time. This is reflected today in the recent surge of media coverage on the COVID-19 virus. Currently over 100,000 people have been infected, and the number is increasing exponentially. The virus is normally nonlethal, but in cases of a weakened respiratory system the disease can be fatal. It travels through particles spread by coughing and sneezing. While there currently is no cure, safety can be maintained by keeping your hands away from your mouth and eyes, and washing them regularly.

80 Years Ago
… The Skaneateles Press published an article on Boy Scout events at the New York and San Francisco World’s Fairs. In the previous year (1939), 3,804 scouts and leaders camped in a 2-acre tent village at the New York fair. Troops from 32 states were represented, and the scouts participated in service projects such as helping at first aid stations and serving as guides for school groups visiting the fair. They also put on an exhibit showcasing wood and nature crafts from around the country. Today, the closest thing we have to the World’s Fair is the New York State Fair held in Syracuse. Though the Boy Scouts do not camp at the New York State Fair today, many Girl Scouts from around the New York and Pennsylvania area hold events there. In 2019, current and past Girl Scouts marched in uniform in the Women’s Day Parade at the fair. They also maintained their own booth in the Science and Industry Building, holding STEM activities. Even though Boy Scouts no longer hold large events at the fair, you can still support your local Girl Scouts by attending the Women’s Day Parade (this year on Wednesday, August 26) and visiting their booth throughout the fair.

100 Years Ago
… today The Democrat published an article informing readers on the prices of dog licencing. In the 1920s all dogs were required to get licensed in New York. Oddly enough female dogs were $4.95 and male dogs were $2.92. Females were more expensive because of their breeding potential. A female dog can produce profit for the owner by selling the puppies. Similarly to today purchasing female dogs is often more expensive because female dogs are easier to control and train and male dogs can be erratic and hard to train. A female puppy on average costs upwards of $1500. However in 1920 the average cost was $53. Breed, sex, age, and rarity also are factors that affect the price of the dog. Licensing today is the same for all dogs of all breeds and sexes at $8.50 each year. If you would like to find out more information go to nyc.gov and search for “dog licensing.”