IN MEMORIAM: Blanche Blacksmith, 88; Ran Straws & Sweets, Cooperstown Shop COOPERSTOWN – Blanche H. Blacksmith, 88, who operated Straws & Sweets in the village, died unexpectedly Thursday evening, May 5, 2016, at Focus Rehabilitation & Nursing Center at Otsego after enjoying a wonderful day with friends and dinner with her daughter, Allyse. Blanche Harriet Flower was born Jan. 1, 1928, in Somerville, N.J., the only child of Harry and Ann (Recor) Flower.…