The Otsego County Volunteer Firemen's Convention was held in Schenevus, starting with the fire queen contest July 8 at Schenevus Firehouse.
Caitlin Kelly of Cooperstown was crowned fire queen. First runner-up was Tiffany Borgman of West Laurens, second runner-up was Jessica Parker of Westford and third runner-up was Jennifer Mason of Gilbertsville.
At the banquet on July 10, awards were presented as follows: Firemen of the Year was shared by William "Ted" Johnston of the Morris Fire Department and Earl Johnson of the West Exeter Fire Department. Receiving the Good Citizen award was Peter Gould, former member of the Morris Fire Department. Art Klingler of the Edmeston Fire Department received the Gary Goodier Service award. Otsego County Auxiliary Member of the Year was Carolee Wright of the Gilbertsville Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.
The Otsego County Firemen's Convention parade was held July 18 in Schenevus with 80 units participating. Best appearing fire departments were first, Worcester; second, West Exeter; and third, Edmeston. Best appearing fire departments outside of the county were first, Hobart; second, Ames; and third, Pindars Corners.
Other parade awards were as follows: Most in line, fire department, Worcester; best appearing auxiliary, Worcester; most in line, auxiliary, Worcester. Best appearing fire equipment, first, Oneonta, second, Worcester. Bands, Laurens Central School. Best music, Laurens Central School.
