Our Opinion: Roses

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February 2, 2012

Our Opinion: Roses

The Cooperstown Crier Thu Feb 02, 2012, 12:51 PM EST

Roses to Cooperstown sixth-grader Tom Knight, who once again might have the chance to compete in the state level geography bee. He won his school district’s competition for the second year in a row this year and will be taking a written test to see if he qualifies. One could wish him luck, but Tom said he feels more confident taking the test this time around the now knows what to expect. He also said he feels more comfortable answering questions on paper that out loud in front of an audience.

Tom was one of the top 30 in the state last year and Elementary Principal Teresa Gorman said, “The chances that we may see Tommy in the official National Geographic Geography Bee in May have once again increased and we are all hoping for the best.”

We hope she is right. Knock them dead Tom.

Roses to Lyz Daley, who has been selected to receive the Champion for Children Award for “Excellence in Care and Education” from the Tri-County Association for the Education of Young Children. Daley has been a teacher of young children at the Brookwood School since 2004, working with older infants (12-18 months old) who are referred to “waddlers.” The award is presented to an individual who works hands-on with children on a daily basis and who is committed to promoting professionalism and quality education for the well-being of all young children and their families.

According to the staff at Brookwood, Daley has patiently led so many infants into the big world ahead of them, helping them each step of the way. Staff at Brookwood said they believe that Lyz Daley exemplifies excellence in care and education and is so deserving of this honor.

Roses to Mildred Wedderspoon, who reached the century mark when she celebrated her birthday last week.

She moved from Mt. Kisco in Westchester County to Pierstown and has been there for the last 60 years. William Howard Taft was president when she born and in the next 100 years, Wedderspoon lived through a century of what could be considered the greatest technological advancements of human history. She said she used to enjoy making hand-made hooked rugs and liked gardening, but hasslowed down a bit these last few years.

“She is just a great lady, who has a big circle of friends and neighbors that look after her,” said one friend. “As far as family, she has just outlived them all.”