Free fishing set

for weekend

State Gov. Kathy Hochul announced today that Saturday and Sunday is a free fishing weekend. During free fishing days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters.

“There’s no better time for aspiring anglers to try freshwater fishing than a free fishing weekend,” Hochul said. “New York is home to numerous freshwater lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, allowing for memorable fishing experiences for anglers new and novice, as well as friends and family.”

The Free Fishing Days program began in 1991 to give people who might not fish a chance to try the rewarding sport of freshwater fishing at no cost, introduce people to a new hobby and encourage people to support conservation by purchasing a New York State fishing license.

DEC has partnered with libraries across the State to provide a fishing rod lending program. In addition to borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod.

Veterans 4 Christ plan fishing derby

Veterans 4 Christ will have their annual fishing derby this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held rain or shine at Westfield Fish & Game, 8101-8371 Ogden Road, Westfield. This is a catch-and-release facility.

This is a free event for all veterans and active-duty military and their family. There will be a free picnic lunch provided. Prizes will be given out based on the fish caught by a veteran or a veteran’s child, grandchild. There will be door prizes awarded throughout the event. Rods and reels will be available if needed.

East Otto Museum to open Sundays

EAST OTTO — The East Otto Historical Museum, housed in the town’s oldest building (1833-34), will be open from 1 to 3 p.m. (or longer if needed) every Sunday during the month of July and August. Appointments for other days can be arranged by calling (716) 257-0654.

Cattaraugus County Historian believes it could be the oldest building in Cattaraugus County. The building was built pre-Civil War and pre-East Otto. The Town of East Otto broke away from the Town of Otto and became incorporated in 1854.

The museum building was originally built as a Baptist Church east of town. Later it was moved to the “Corners,” which is now considered the center of town. A larger church replaced it and the town purchased and moved the building to its present location. It became the town’s first Town Hall.

In 1972, after the Town Hall relocated to its present location on East Otto Springville Road, the East Otto Historical Group was given permission to use it as a museum. The museum is located next to the Fire Hall at 8982 Reed Hill Road, East Otto.

Items in the museum tell the story of people and businesses that once were part of East Otto. See baskets, milk pans and cheese boxes made in town. Look through books tracing births, marriages, and deaths. Other displays include a tandem bike, butter churn, apple press, pump organ, small farm tools, kitchen items, wooden voting booths, family scrapbooks and more.