The O-town Scene - Oneonta, NY
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/31419
Editor’s Note I’m in love. It recently hit me _ I was just sitting by myself, looking out a window at budding lime green trees, and started smiling, giddy. And, no, it’s not just some lusty fling. Our relationship started when I was grow- ing up, but I was never interested in any- thing long-term. We’d see each other during college breaks and holidays, but there were never any sparks. And then two and a half years ago when I was going through a really tough time and had to move back to Oneonta from Manhattan, I started to see what a wonderful being had been a part of my life all along. I’ve fallen head over heels in love with Oneonta. It was stability when I needed it, and it’s welcomed and accepted me with open arms. I have had many love affairs with places. My first love was Boston. As soon as I met it as a little girl visiting my aunt and uncle, I knew I wanted it to be a part of my life. I didn’t know what I wanted to study, and I knew little about Boston University before I enrolled, but it was in the heart of the object of my affection (and I got a nice scholar- ship, which was validating. It was as if the city was saying through BU that it wanted me, too). My relationship with Boston was comfortable, exciting and at times frustrating _ damn you, B line and Yankee haters. But, we’re still on good terms and see each other often. I moved to Italy a few weeks after leaving Boston in 2006. That was love at first sight. We had a beautiful, passionate love affair and were hot and heavy for more than two years. I often reminisce about my time there. From Italy, I moved to New York City. I thought we were meant for each other and that we’d be together for a long time. But, we only lasted about six months. I still love NYC _ we just can’t live together. There have been numerous flings and one- night-stands in between _ Paris, Prague, New Zealand, Sydney, Mexico, Memphis, Mississippi, Miami, Oklahoma City, Dres- den, London, Nice. They’re all a part of me, and I learned something from each one. But, Oneonta is different. My love for Oneonta has grown over years. We’ve gone through rough patches _ this winter was no fairy tale _ and we’ve made it. I’ve realized it’s more wonderful than I ever expected it could be. It has grown, too. It seems to have found its passion in the arts. This week it’s hosting the movie premiere of “Mineville” with big-name actors such as Paul Sorvino of “Goodfellas” fame, as well as local filmmakers Lori Kelly-Bailey, who wrote and directed the film, her co-producer son Joel Plue and 2003 Hartwick College grad and 1999 Oneonta High School grad Cuyle Carvin, who has a lead role (Page 18). Then, next week is the second annual Rock Orchestra sponsored by Hartwick, fea- turing rock songs sung with a full orchestra and backing choir (Page 15). There are so many events to look forward to, especially this summer. It’s going to be amazing. I hope you love it all, too. _ Cassandra Miller COVER PHOTO: By Genevieve Pedulla A festivalgoer hula hoops at the inaugural LiveLIVE! Music & Arts Festival (formerly Headyfest), which was May 6 and 7 at The Blowdown in Oneonta. More photos and a story are on Pages 16 and 17. May 12, 2011 O-Town Scene 3