o " To the organizers of the Meredith Dairy Fest.

The event on Saturday and Sunday attracted between 14,000 and 16,000 people this year, organizers said.

The ninth annual fest featured attractions focusing on the dairy industry, plus entertainment, food and other activities, and it raised money for the Meridale Fire Department.

Last year, the second day of the festival was canceled because of strong winds. Organizers planned for the possibility of bad weather this year by buying new tents, but the days were warm and sunny without too much wind.

We applaud organizers for perseverance and presenting an event that promotes an industry important to our area _ dairy farming.

o " To Saturday’s Bread for serving many thousands of meals during its 15-year history.

The nonprofit organization provides meals to people who need food, and also features an opportunity to socialize. The program, hosted by the First United Methodist Church in Oneonta, helps meet a need and provides a resource for developing a sense of community. Saturday’s Bread calls on area churches and volunteers to help.

Sallyann Lamanna, a board member, said the group hasn’t missed a Saturday during its 15 years, an anniversary celebrated this weekend.

We congratulate the organization and thank it and the scores of volunteers and donors who have contributed to its success.

o " To Linda and Geoff Smith for their support of Hartwick College and the community.

The Smiths recently were recognized as Outstanding Citizens of the Year by the Hartwick College Citizens Board, a group of area businesspeople and community members founded in 1954.

``Geoff and Linda are great friends of this college and among Oneonta’s most-devoted citizens," Hartwick President Richard P. Miller Jr. said. In particular, the Smiths have supported the college in arts and athletic programs.

Being a friend of the college is being a friend of the community.

o " To Oneonta Dollars for Scholars, which has reached its notable 15th year, and other local Dollar for Scholar programs, for helping students further their education.

Recently, 44 seniors at Oneonta High School were awarded scholarships through the organization. With those awards, 485 students have received a total of $310,000 in the past 15 years, said Carol Baker, president of the Oneonta Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Foundation.

Fundraising for the scholarships is done locally and involves sponsored and endowed scholarships, she said.

We’re happy to recognize the important roles the local Dollars for Scholars groups have in channeling community support for local students and their dreams of advanced studies.