Day At Saratoga Runs Up

Bidding At GOHS Auction

Bonnie Lado of Oneonta, top photo, with her husband, retired dentist Bill Lado, at her side, places a bid as a three-way contest nears its climax this evening at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society’s annual fundraising auction at the Holiday Inn Southside.  She was vying with fellow Oneontan Linda Smith – seen at right with her grandson, a picture of anticipation – and Kevin Dwyer of Laurens for John Pontius’ offer of a day in his box at the Saratoga Race Track during next August’s season, topped with cocktails at the famous Siro’s Restaurant; then John would drive the winners back to Oneonta.  Auctioneer Chuck D’Imperio set the value at $250, but the three bidders breezed right by that – $300, $400, $500, $600, when Dwyer dropped out of the contest.   Linda Smith bid $610, Bonnie Lado $620, Linda $630, Bonnie $640.  “$640, going once,” intoned D’Imperio.  “$640, going twice!  $640!!!” he declared, bringing down his gavel.  And the Lados are off to the races.  (Jim Kevlin/www.AllOTSEGO.com)