May 20, 2025

Lt. Joseph Snyder

906-748-0539/joseph.d.snyder@uscg.mil

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Benette Swanson, a machinery technician, was recognized as the Coast Guard’s Enlisted Person of the Year in Washington, D.C., on April 30th.

Swanson, a native of Sault Ste. Marie, enlisted in the Coast Guard in 2021 and was assigned to Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) Sault Ste. Marie in 2024. He was recognized for his commendable technical proficiency, his ability to lead others, and his embodiment of the Coast Guard’s core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. Notably, he achieved his required qualifications in record time, led the ANT to remove 109 pieces of aid to navigation in advance of the ice season, and spent 100 hours volunteering in his community, including coaching youth sports and promoting boating safety and conservation as president of the Saint Marys River Walleye Club.

Swanson was presented with the award at Coast Guard Headquarters by Vice Adm. Peter W. Gautier, Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, and Master Chief Petty Officer Heath B. Jones, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard. His father, mother, sisters, grandparents and girlfriend were also in attendance.

In addition to serving in the Coast Guard, Swanson is enrolled at Lake Superior State University where he is working towards an associate degree in general education.

For more information, contact Lt. Joseph Snyder, Sector Northern Great Lakes Public Affairs Officer, at 906-748-0539 or via email joseph.d.snyder@uscg.mil

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From Tuesday’s County commission budget workshop, big changes could be coming to Palm Beach County parks — including a new usage fee for youth sports leagues and a price hike at popular beach locations.

Palm Beach County commissioners reviewed a preliminary budget for the Parks and Recreation Department as part of ongoing efforts to close funding gaps. With the board split, one of the more debated proposals is a $5-per-hour field usage fee that would impact nonprofit youth sports leagues.

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County Administrator Verdenia Baker explained that unexpected costs — including $45 million spent on Secret Service protection during presidential visits — forced the county to adjust its reserves and consider new revenue streams.

The proposed field fee could generate approximately $351,000 in revenue and affect around 50 nonprofit organizations.

Commissioners remain divided on whether the fee is fair.

“I don’t want non-profit children’s sports groups to think that they may not be able to play in our county parks, because they can’t afford the fees,” said Commissioner Maria Sachs. “That must not happen — period.”

But others, like Commissioner Marci Woodward, defended the proposal.

“I am okay with what was put forward,” she said. “We have to turn the lights on, we have to maintain grass, there’s fertilization. We want to keep good parks for them to play on, and we are paying for it right now.”

Also included in the proposed budget is a beach parking fee increase — from $3 to $4 — at Kreusler Park and South Inlet Park, two county-operated beaches within municipalities that already charge for parking. If approved, the new rate would take effect October 1st.

Although no final decisions were made, commissioners emphasized the importance of finding ways to sustain services while managing growing costs.

The next budget workshop is scheduled for June 10th.

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ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – The north ice rink at the Rochester Recreation Center is set to receive a major upgrade this summer.

Beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through the end of July, the rink will undergo a comprehensive renovation to enhance the facility.

Planned improvements include the installation of new boards, glass and netting along with dedicated areas for player benches, penalty boxes, a scorekeeping table and a new sound system to enhance the experience for the spectators and athletes.

This renovation is made possible through a collaborative funding effort between Mayo Clinic, the Rochester Youth Hockey Association (RYHA), the Rochester Curling Club, the Rochester Figure Skating Club, the Rochester Hockey Foundation, and the City of Rochester’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).

“We’re excited to modernize the north rink and provide a top-tier experience for athletes and fans across multiple ice sports,” said Caryn Rooney, Rochester Recreation Center Manager. “This project represents the strong community commitment to youth sports and recreation in Rochester.”

The south rink will remain fully operational during construction; however, public skating and open hockey sessions may be limited overall.

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Youth sports aren’t just about scoring points, they’re about building confidence, social skills, and lifelong habits. This May, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, is a great time to focus on how sports help kids thrive.

Observed since 1983, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is an initiative created by the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. This annual event promotes physical activity and sports participation. Sports offer kids the chance to explore movement, learn teamwork, and burn off energy in a positive way. Whether it’s soccer practice or a game of catch, these moments help kids grow stronger, physically and emotionally.

The National Youth Sports Strategy supports programs that help all kids get in the game, no matter their background or skill level. At Rutgers University, the Youth Sports Research Council develops information about the impact of physical activity and sports on children’s development. YSRC partners with organizations such as the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association to provide training and resources for coaches and parents. Programs, including the SAFETY Clinic Course (Sports Awareness for Educating Today’s Youth) help volunteer coaches create safe and positive sports environments for youth. 

So this May, let’s support this next generation of winners, on and off the field. Whether it’s volunteering to coach, enrolling your child in a new sport, or advocating for inclusive youth programs in your community, your involvement can make a difference.

More Health Info

Age 75 of Elmira, NY. He was born on August 19th, 1949 in Elmira, the son of the late Francis C. “Frank” & Evelyn (Bowell) Ferraro. He passed away on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025. In addition to his parents, Jim was also predeceased by his daughter Danielle Tomisman; and sister Sharon Moshey. He is survived by his sons Anthony “Tony” Ferraro (Kelly Wright), James “Jay” (Gretchen) Ferraro Jr, and Michael Ferraro; grandchildren Anthony Putney, Cullan Putney, Abbie Putney, Zack Tomisman, Gianna Ferraro, Ryen Ferraro, Ian Ferraro, and Grayson Putney; sister Carol & James Keough; brother in law Robert Moshey; son in law Paul (Claire) Tomisman; along with several extended family and dear friends. Jim was a Southside High Scholl graduate, Class of 1968. He joined and served in the U.S. Navy from 1968 to 1971. After his military service, Jim found his life’s continued service as an EMT and firefighter with the Elmira Fire Department – starting in 1974 until his retirement in 1996. At his request, family will not hold public services. Those wishing may honor Jim with a donation to a local youth sports organization in your district or area.

Condolences at www.barberfuneralhome.com