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& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

Oneonta, N.Y., Friday, December 7, 2012

Volume 5, No. 12

City of The Hills

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Complimentary

Bresee’s Health Bar Lives On

Muriel Ross, 95, reviews the 1948 Collier’s article that celebrated her as Bresee’s Health Bar waitress par excellence.

Celebrated Muriel Ross Worked There 35 Years, Turns 95

By LIBBY CUDMORE

B

efore the Yellow Deli, before the Autumn Cafe, there was Bresee’s Health Bar. “On Thursday nights you could hardly walk down Main Street,” said Muriel Ross, one of the last living Health Bar waitresses, who turned

Jim Kevlin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Kids can ride the former Bresee’s Rudolph – shown off here by Cherry Branch Gallery director Kristen Henderson – this season in Cherry Valley. Santa’s reindeer was bought

by Cherry Valley’s Greg Noonan at an auction of the department store furnishings in 2006.

95 on Nov. 21. “On my busiest days, I could serve 300 people at my counter.”

Recently widowed in 1948, Muriel got the job that October after Fred Bresee, just home from the Army and unhappy with the way his restaurant was being run, fired the entire staff. “I was working at Please See 95TH, A8

Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Oneonta Theatre Going Venue Closes At Year’s End, Cormier Says

By JIM KEVLIN

Community Bank Moves Rt. 23 Office

A

C

ommunity Bank’s Southside Mall branch has moved across Route 23 into the rechristened Community Bank Plaza, said Joseph Sutaris, bank’s regional executive.

As with its mall office, the new branch will be open seven days a week, but it adds three drive-up lanes and a drive-up ATM. A grand opening is planned in April.

Metro Mattress and Country Junction are the other tenants in the now-full shopping plaza, developed by the Karabinises, who operate the adjacent Neptune Diner.

Jim Kevlin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Her tassle on the left side, symbolizing she is graduating, Otego’s Lisa Parisian watches her fellow seniors cross the stage and receive congratulations from SUNY Oneonta President Nancy Kleniewski and Provost Maria Thompson during the December Candidate Recognition ceremony Sunday, Dec. 2, in Dewar Arena.

SHOUT THE NAME,

HONOR FOR LONG: City Manager Michael H. Long has received word the International City/County Management Association has designated him a “credentialed manager.” Only 20 city managers in New York State and 1,200 nationwide have achieved that certification.

HELPING OFO: Singer/ songwriters Dana LaCroix and Murali Coryell raised $1,835 in support of Opportunities for Otsego’s emergency housing shelter through performances at the Oneonta Theatre and Holly Hren’s Cooperstown home.

’TIS ONEONTA

t year’s end, Oneonta Theatre owner Tom Cormier intends to end his three-year experiment in reviving the 1897 opera house as a modern-day rock and performance venue.

He has put the building at 47 Chestnut St. – in addition to the 600-seat theater, there are HOMETOWN ONEONTA six apartments Tom Cormier in the proand three jection room in 2010. storefronts – on the market for $1.35 million.

The news was greeted with dismay.

“It would be terribly unfortunate,” said Mayor Miller. “I hope there’s some way the theater can stay open on a financially viable basis.”

Please See CORMIER, A9

Youngster Can Again Attend CSO For Free, Thanks To Benefactor

By LIBBY CUDMORE

T Oneonta’s Aleksandra Cunero examines the honors medal she received at the recognition ceremony.

Jacob Wanser, Class of 2013, leads the gathering in the alma mater, “Shout the name, ’tis Oneonta”/MORE PHOTOS, A3

he generous, mysterious Catskill Symphony Orchestra donor strikes again – again donating funds so local youngsters can experience the joys of hearing a classical music live.

“This is the eighth year this person has done this,” said Deb Wolfanger, CSO manager. “It’s allowed hundreds of kids to enjoy Please See CSO, A7

HOMETOWN ONEONTA, THE LARGEST CIRCULATION NEWSPAPER IN OTSEGO COUNTY, 2010 WINNER OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD

Capture the magic!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 3:00 - 7:00 PM

CANDLELIGHT EVENING

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• See hundreds of candles across the grounds • Warm up with complimentary wassail • Ride the Empire State Carousel • Enjoy caroling, wagon rides and holiday crafts • Visit with Saint Nicholas • Indulge in seasonal foods Step back in Time! TM

For information, visit FarmersMuseum.org or call (607) 547-1450 • 5775 State Hwy 80, Cooperstown, NY Admission: Adults (13-64): $12 • Seniors (65+): $10.50 • Children (7-12): $6 • Kids (6 & under) and NYSHA members: Free.

Sponsored in part by NBT Bank, Haggerty Ace Hardware, and Cathedral Candle Company.

A-2 HOMETOWN ONEONTA

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

HOMETOWN People

Thanksgiving Giveaway So Successful, Pastor Mel Looks To Christmas

By LIBBY CUDMORE

P

astor Mel Farmer gave away a record 80 turkeys and 10

Brooks’ dinners to needy families this Thanksgiving, a record. No one who asked went away hungry.

When all were fed, he had $1,200 left over, so the pas-

tor of River Street Baptist Church, who also has a local radio and local TV show, is turning his thoughts to Christmas, and hams.

“All kinds of thank-yous

GIFTS for one and all!

are coming in,” he said.

“And all of them say that without us, they wouldn’t have had a Thanksgiving.”

Farmer’s now-traditional Thanksgiving drive raised $2,100 this year, more than $1,500 more than any past year. The money came from both corporate and private donations, and many came from people who had received turkeys in previous years. “They gave $5, $10, whatever they could spare,” he said.

The local businesses, 50 in all, were also key in the drive’s success, giving both money and turkeys. “No one we asked said ‘no’,” he said.

“We were able to give everyone who sent us a letter a turkey,” said Farmer. “We gave away turkeys from Sidney to Worcester – we reached a lot of people.”

And there’s still money

(and a few McDonald’s Value Meals) left over, and he’s putting it towards making more holiday meals.

“This is alive,” he said.

“It’s bounced into something else.”

Families who would otherwise be needy can send a card or a letter with their request and get a ham for their Christmas feast. “I plan to give out at least a hundred hams,” he said.

Though he had yet to recruit a supermarket to help out the drive, he expects to, and a week before Christmas will instruct those on the list where to pick up their ham. “You give someone a ham, they can eat that ham all week,” he said. “It stays with them awhile.”

Of the hundred hams purchased, any not picked up will be given to local food pantries. It’s projects like these, Farmer says, that put

Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Pastor Mel Farmer, with one of his Christmas hams

him in the Christmas spirit.

“You hear so much negative stuff in the world,” he said. “But Christmas is about the joy of giving.”

CHRISTMAS TIDINGS

The merry shops of the Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum are open ‘til Christmas Eve. Hours: Daily 10am-4pm (Fenimore shop closed Mondays)

Or shop online 24/7!

Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Conductor Timothy Newton lifts his hands in bravado at the conclusion of the first half of the Catskill Choral Society’s 41st annual Christmas Concert, “Enchanted Mysteries of the Human Voice” Sunday, Dec. 2, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Just Outside of the Village of Cooperstown on Lake Road (Rt. 80)

FarmersMuseum.org | FenimoreArtMuseum.org NYSHA Members Receive 20% Off

THE HAWKEYE

HOLIDAY

DINNER Friday, December 21st • 5:30PM-9:00PM • $18.95 per person The Otesaga’s Executive Chef Michael Gregory has cooked up a very special holiday tradition for you and your family - The Hawkeye Holiday Dinner on Friday, December 21st.

Begin with your choice of a traditional Caesar or delicious House Green Salad. Next choose from our savory Roast Duck or Roast Sirloin with Wild Mushroom Sauce. All entrées will include appropriate side dishes. Complete your Hawkeye holiday feast with festive Strawberry Trifle or freshly baked Apple Pie for dessert. All for only $18.95 per person.

Of course The Hawkeye Grill’s delicious regular menu is always available. Located off The Otesaga’s Lower Level overlooking Lake Otsego, you may reach The Hawkeye Grill through the Lower Level entrance off The Hotel guest parking area. Casual attire is always welcome.

For more information and to make reservations, call Maitre d’ Lori Patryn at (607) 544-2524 or (800) 348-6222.

O v e r 1 0 0 Ye a r s o f G r a c i o u s H o s p i t a l i t y ® THE OTESAGA RESORT HOTEL, 60 LAKE STREET, COOPERSTOWN, NY 13326 • O TESAGA . COM

Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

So many choices! Here, Kathy Decker and Joyce Holland of Oneonta explore their many festive holiday decorating options created by the Oneonta Garden Club at its annual wreath sale on Friday, Nov 30, at St. James Episcopal Church.

Oneonta’s Joe Balnis shows two stuffed elves, some of many holiday items up for auction at the Business & Professional Women’s Club Christmas party Tuesday, Nov. 27, at the Elks Club.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

AT SUNY ONEONTA,

JoAnn Barnhart, director of student accounts, and Betty Tirado, accounts payable, welcome graduates’ families and friends.

NEW BEGINNINGS

SUNY Oneonta President Nancy Kleniewski wishes honorees well.

Faculty and staff singing SUNY Oneonta’s alma mater include, from left, Theresa Russo, Art Doria, Associate Vice Presidents Roger Sullivan and Jeanne Miller, and others.

As mom Megan Fulkerson receives her master’s, her family, sociology prof Greg, Ian 5, and Laney, 3, watched from the audience.

Tassle flying, Oneonta’s Ryan Lynch leaves the podium en route to his future.

Oneonta’s Jacquie Gibson attended with sons Chris and John, whose girlfriend, Taylor Foreman, was honored.

Retired dean David W. Brennan, a member of the SUNY Oneonta College Council, observes the proceedings.

44 Graduates Hail From Local Towns

F

orty-four students from the Otsego-Delaware towns were among SUNY Oneonta’s December grads, honored in Dewar Arena Sunday, Dec. 2: Canajoharie – Sarah Rose Franchi Cherry Valley – Jennifer L. Bowen, Sarah Jeanine Hovick, Celia Rebecca VanDerwerker Cooperstown – Kaitlin S. Cring, Landry Michele Rubino Andes – Allison Nicole Gardner Bovina Center – Jeffrey Thomas Craver Davenport Center – Terri Lynne Bonney, Miranda Jeanet Zimmerman Delhi – William Perri DeFreece, Steven Leahy, Krista Anne Scherer East Meredith – Ronald G. Brooke, Alexander J. Lubbers Laurens – Alexander John Benjamin Maryland – Kathleen McKeever Loughman Oneonta – Stefan Michael Armstrong, Benjamin Joseph Brockert, Alexander Halligan Chase, Landon Richard Cornish, Aleksandra Cunero, Taylor Foreman, Megan C. Fulkerson, Mollie Seyward Goodwin, Chin-Hao Chen Lee, Ryan Thomas Lynch, Ryan Patrick McGraw, Diana Moller, Korey H. Rowe, Tracie Dawn Smith, Alexandra Nicole Stanard Otego – Jennifer Michelle Brown, Sara Elaine Bryden, Jillian Rae Heyward, Lisa Mae Parisian, Shelley Lee Zoeller Roxbury – Christine Elizabeth Cooper Schenevus – Erin Leigh Mason Schoharie – Ryan Charles Cleveland South Kortright – Paola Andrea Aviles Unadilla – Sierra N. Birdsall Walton – Eric C. Ball, William Russell Neale

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The Shops at Ford and Main!

Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Thrift Shop and Boutique

Marcia Beers and Helen Hayward volunteers

Stop, Shop and Save!

Women’s, Men’s and Children’s apparel, accessories, vintage items, furniture, knick-knacks and more!

Directed by Donna I. Decker, Ballet by Irine Fokine Friday, December 14, 7 pm Saturday, December 15, 1 and 7 pm Goodrich Theater, State University College at Oneonta

$18 general $15 students and seniors Tickets available: Green Toad Bookstore, Oneonta The Eighth Note Music Store, Oneonta Augur’s Corner Bookstore, Cooperstown Rachel’s Framing and Fine Art, Delhi Tickets also available through Decker School of Ballet /FBC 607-432-6290 or www.deckerschool of ballet.org FBC accepts MasterCard and Visa

Project Anthologies

Project Anthologies has designer fabrics, sewing supplies, a selection of yarns and many creative ideas to get you started on your next project!

OPEN HOUSE Number Two Thistle Hill Goes to the Movies Melany Tenore, owner

Creative Dress Boutique • Monkey Barrel Toys Hospice Thrift Shop • Project Anthologies Spice Company • Collage Food Boutique Half Pint Printing • National Bank of Delhi

265 Main Street • Oneonta

Special presentation 2 pm Saturday: Thistle Hill Goes to the Movies!

Meet the weavers! Free mill tours!

Great gifts for the holidays!

Come see what we’ve been making for the movies!

Friday, December 14, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday, December 15, 9 am to 5 pm Baxter Road • Cherry Valley 518-284-2729 or www.thistlehillweavers.com for directions

Dec. 7 & 8, 10-5pm Presenting a limited edition of 20 handpainted ornaments by local artist Tracy Helgeson 15 Commons Drive Cooperstown - Open Mon-Sat until Dec. 30 10-5pm 434-3418

HOMETOWN Views

A-4 HOMETOWN ONEONTA

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

EDITORIAL

I

City’s Redistricting Process Set Stage For Debates To Come

f democratic deliberations can look like sausage-making, that’s certainly been the case with the City of Oneonta’s redistricting plan, which is all set to be approved by Common Council.

Here’s the good that can be said about it: • One, the new City Charter approved last November requires redistricting every 10 years, after the national Census, and that’s been accomplished. Plus, it was the first remapping since 1974, so long overdue.

• Two, the wards’ populations The 19th-century mapmakers got it right: No wards, no city are more or less equal, with Ward and town, just One One-onta.

4 (from Walnut north between • to ensure potholes were filled and Church and Elm) having the widThat’s it.

Generally, it’s a standstreets paved in their neighborest divergence, plus 4.8 percent. pat document.

People are shifted hoods. Now, there’s a master That means every person living around a bit, but no one’s going to plan to ensure roadwork is done there has 4.8 percent less voting notice much difference. strategically, based on citywide power than city residents generalHere are the disappointments: priorities first, as it should be. ly, but hardly the 17 percent swing • One, the wards are obsolete; Who would argue that Ward 4 is of the old plan. so different from Ward 3 (north of • Three, Josh Simons, the SUNY this was an opportunity to eliminate them, an opportunity missed.

Walnut between Elm and Pine) to New Paltz consultant, assured A century ago, it took a halfrequire a different representative?

Common Council if there is ever a hour to walk from the East End or The historic Sixth Ward – the court challenge – there wasn’t one West End to City Hall; now, the Lower Deck or the League of Nawhen the wards were really out of car trip takes 4-5 minutes, or you tions, if you will – is held together whack, so this is theoretical – the can pick up the phone or send an by an immigrant legacy, but does a plan would withstand it. e-mail to connect with city govcommon heritage require a sepa• Four, no current Council ernment instantaneously. rate political unit? (Regardless, member would be redistricted out In the original charter, aldermen Common Council could/should of a job, good since the eight made – yes, men – had such duties as have neighborhood town hall a commitment, worked for the inspecting fences to settle neighmeetings.) job and, with occasional rifts, are borhood disputes.

More recently, This was a chance to eliminate performing pretty well as a unit. aldermen would jostle each other the wards and get the whole coun‘CITIZEN VOICES’ SPEAK

Let Facts Decide Debate Over Burning Gas, Coal Editor’s Note: Citizen Voices, the business group headed

by Oneonta businessmen Bob Harlem and Tom Armao, is preparing a series of articles to be published over the next several weeks addressing challenges to the local economy.

The third appears below. We welcome these articles, and welcome any ensuing debate. To participate, e-mail Letters to the Editor to jimk@allotsego.com

T

he issues that face us as a community are complicated. For example, there is not total agreement about whether or not the area needs economic growth to continue to provide the services, i.e. education, security, roads, etc., that we have come to expect.

Even if we could all agree that we need economic growth, recent articles in the local media strongly suggest that we could not agree on what kinds of growth would be acceptable.

Difference of opinion is as American as motherhood and apple pie. However, accompanying that right to holds one’s own opinion there is a commensurate responsibility to be honest.

If there is no integrity in the process then people have no basis for making a decision that is likely to work.

Last week an article appeared stating that methane is 25 to 100 times worse than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas. The generally accepted number is 22 to 25 times – not 100. The

article went on to state that because of this, natural gas is “dirtier” than coal when burned to generate electricity. Our high school chemistry clearly taught us that when natural gas or methane burns it produces carbon dioxide and water. That is not true of coal as coal contains several nasty combustion byproducts – the reason that coal-fired plants are heavily regulated and often have to install electrostatic precipitators, scrubbers and bag-houses to remove those byproducts from the air and then store them.

It’s easy to see how the writer might have been confused as a New York-based foundation paid for a study that indeed said that gas was dirtier than coal. Remember that old saying “He who pays the fiddler gets to call the tune”? Even the Natural Resources Defense Council weighed in to oppose those findings.

However, some damage to the integrity of the decision-making process was done. Some people Please See VOICES, A6

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

Jim Kevlin

Editor &Publisher Tara Barnwell Advertising Director

M.J. Kevlin Business Manager

Amanda Hoepker Office Manager Libby Cudmore Reporter

Ian Austin Photographer

Kathleen Peters Graphic Artist

MEMBER OF New York Press Association • The Otsego County Chamber Published weekly by Iron String Press, Inc. 21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326 Telephone: (607) 547-6103. Fax: (607) 547-6080.

E-mail: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com

JOHN ERARDI OTHER VOICES

cil elected at large. Oneonta – city and town, too – is one community, and a council member living on Belmont Circle should be broadgauged enough to wrap his or her brain around the particular concerns, if any, of Academy Street.

• • Two, under the patina of meeting the constitutional one-person, one-vote requirement, the plan is bogus.

If 50.5 percent of Ward 5’s 1,783 residents are Hartwick College students, and none of them vote in local elections – and that’s the reality – then 900 people are calling the shots there, meaning their votes are worth twice as much as in, say, Wards 1 or 6, which contain few students. The plan may meet the letter of the law, but flouts the spirit.

The same goes in Wards 2 and 3, where 48 and 46 percent of SUNY Oneonta students live, all but a handful non-voting.

This can be corrected by an outreach program to get the college students fully registered and involved in city issues, maybe getting one or two elected to Common Council. That would be a great project for the League of Women Voters.

A side benefit: Involved students would more likely stay in the city after graduation, and we

need all the smart young people we can get.

• That said, the plan is good enough for now.

Eliminating wards would have required the City Charter to be taken to another vote in the 2013 local elections. The new charter was just approved in 2011, and the Redistricting Commission likely concluded it was too complicated to do it again so soon.

2021, however, should bring a clean-sheet look, with all issues debated and resolved based on the principle of One One-onta, diversity united for the common good.

By then, though, as Council member Chip Holmes pointed out, the Town of Oneonta – all town board members, by the way, are elected at large – and City of Oneonta may be one. And that would require a clean-sheet look anyhow.

At base, the Redistricting Commission did no harm and provided much fodder for rumination. Redistricting needed to be done, and it’s done. Going forward, though, exciting possibilities await.

(We won’t even mention the county Board of Representatives’ weighted-voting system – a can of worms, for sure, that cries out for a fresh look.)

Baseball Is All About The Hall

Editor’s Note: John Erardi of the Cincinnati Enquirer, is one of the Baseball Writers of America who vote on the Hall of Fame ballot, mailed out Wednesday, Nov. 28.

I

get that Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens were Hall of Famers before they ever started juicing.

I also get that if steroids were around in the ’30s and ’40s that Ted Williams would have taken them. I heard, in person, his most recent biographer, the wonderful Leigh Montville, say in Cincinnati a few years ago that if steroids were around, the literally Splendid Splinter – desperate to put on weight and get stronger but reduced to drinking tons of vanilla milkshakes – would have partaken.

I’m on record as saying that if a pill could make me write like Hemingway, I might take it. (Of course, talk about noticing a change.)

But it wasn’t/isn’t available, and we didn’t. Sometimes, one is cursed by ones times. I don’t doubt Bonds and Clemens might have been motivated more by pride, jealousy and by keeping up with the Joneses than by greed.

But any players who injected or used the clear or the cream knew what they were doing – even it wasn’t (at the time) a substance banned by Baseball.

As for Billy Ripken saying, “The Hall just doesn’t mean as much to the young players,” I get that he wasn’t denigrating the Hall. He was just trying to explain the young players’ mindsets, and I appreciate him doing that.

His point is a valid one: Losing the possibility of the Hall isn’t a deterrent for players today; they aren’t worried about their legacy. When you are 25 and have a chance to never have to think about finances again, you’re not worried about some honor (no matter how great) that you might receive in 20 years. Even the most mature 25year-old can’t see Cooperstown over

The Freeman’s Journal

Barry Larkin contemplates his then-imminent admission into the Hall of Plaques during a visit to 25 Main St. last May.

the piles of cash.

In other words: Stan Musial, Willie Mays and Sandy Koufax may have all played for their legacy at a much younger age because their legacy contributed to their ability to earn money after the game. Guys today don’t have to worry about that.

More “in other words”: So why should these young players be deterred from giving themselves every opportunity to secure their financial futures, even if it means cheating?

To which I say, “Fine. Go for it.”

But you don’t get the girl, too. Not this girl, anyway.

If all this makes me a “grumpy old sportswriter,” as I heard the pejorative applied the other day on a national sports-talk show, then guilty as charged there, too.

The one thing that matters to me is what the fans think of the Hall of Fame. I believe I already know what they think about steroids in the game: It doesn’t bother many of them. But

I’m convinced most don’t want steroids in the Hall.

I wrote it last year when Barry Larkin was enshrined: Until you walk through the double doors at 25 Main St., you think it is the fans who are passing through.

After you are inside, you realize it is the players who are passing through.

They are like a formation of soldiers passing by a reviewing stand.

People always ask me: “What should I see when I visit the Hall of Fame?” I always say the same thing: Go to the Hall of Fame gallery on a Saturday in the summer when it is full of fans. And listen.

It is the quietest place I have ever heard.

It is holy ground. Don’t listen to me.

Listen to the fans.

As long as that silence persists, I will feel as I do.

I have your vote, fans.

And Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens will never get it.

Sporting News Odds-Makers: Jack Morris Most Likely Inductee

T

he Detroit Tigers’ Jack Morris, whose forkball, in particular, garnered him more wins in the 1980s than any other right-handed pitcher, is the MLB retiree on the National Baseball Hall of Fame 2013 ballot with the best chance of selection.

That’s according to the Sportings News’ “Linemakers,” who gave Morris a 1/5 chance of being selected by the Baseball Writers of America to stand on the podium at

Cooperstown next July.

Retired Major Leaguers with steroids-tainted records were given little chance of selection.

Mark McGwire’s odds, for instance, were 500-1, and lowest of anyone on the ballot, and Sammy Sosa, 200-1. Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens’ odds are 40/1.

The ballot was mailed out Wednesday, Nov. 28; The Baseball Writers’ vote will be anJack Morris nounced in early January.

LETTERS TO EDITOR WELCOME • E-MAIL THEM TO info@allotsego.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-5

HOMETOWN

History

Compiled by Tom Heitz with resources courtesy of the New York State Historical Association Library

125 Years Ago

40 Years Ago

The Local News – The Delaware & Hudson Canal Company recently paid out upwards of $2,000 for uniforms for its employees. The suits were furnished to employees at cost price – brakemen paying $17.20 and conductors $24.

The brakemen’s coats, a double-breasted blue sack, have no pockets at all in them, and the conductors’ coats, a double-breasted frock, are also almost devoid of pockets, having only one small receptacle for cash aside from the coat tail pockets. The trainmen and station men now present a very neat appearance.

Only words of praise are heard for the electric street lights. They burn steadily without flickering, their brightness giving the streets a cheery look upon the most dismal night and making the gas lamps look sickly indeed. Yet gas was considered upon its introduction, a great step in advance of the Naptha lamps it succeeded.

December 1887

60 Years Ago

100 Years Ago

Thanksgiving evening, Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Baker and Mr. and Mrs. F.M. Baker entertained a large party numbering nearly 400 at The Oneonta and the City Club parlors, the large dance hall of the latter organization being utilized for the reception and dancing which followed. Music was furnished by Gardner’s orchestra and the spacious hall was thronged with dancers throughout the evening. In the adjacent banquet hall of the club card tables were provided and rubbers of auction bridge were frequent. The evening was one of unalloyed pleasure for the guests. During the evening the guests were invited to the main dining room of the Oneonta where a collation was prepared and served in the inimitable manner of the Mssrs. Millard was equally enjoyable.

Numbered among the guests were Henry E, Huntington of Los Angeles and New York, Dr. and Mrs. R.W. Ford, and Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Blakely of Otego, Dr. and Mrs. B.W. Dewar of Cooperstown , Mr. and Mrs. John T. Knapp of Worcester, Miss Hart of

upon his attention against his will.

But what can be said of the radio advertising as at present conducted?

Like the billboards that despoil the scenery along God’s highway, it is a disgrace and a nuisance. What is taking place on the radio today?

Tooth powder, patent medicines, cosmetics, motorcars, household appliances, tobacco, cigars, cigarettes, and breakfast foods arise to smite the sensibilities of the listener. And we are helpless, because we cannot turn to another station. They are all alike in this respect.

December 1932

Schenectady and Lieutenant and Mrs. Frank B. Edwards.

December 1912

80 Years Ago

Editorial – Advertising is a highly developed science and a valuable asset to business. As such it has a distinctive place in the affairs of the present day. But, like a good many other things, it must be properly used or it becomes a nuisance and a menace to progress and happiness. For one thing it is imperative that advertising be kept in its place. The beauty of newspaper and magazine advertising lies in the fact that it is perfectly possible for the subscriber to read an article or a story and never look at an ad unless he wishes to do so. He knows where the ads are, but they are not forced

Dr. Norman W. Getman of Oneonta, who has served as Otsego County Coroner for the past 26 years, began his 13th consecutive term in that office on Tuesday.

Dr. Getman was re-elected at the November 6th general election.

Oldtimers say he has held office longer than any elected official.

Curiously, he never sought office, never campaigned, and never asked anyone to vote for him, “unless it was in a joking manner.” Dr. Getman entered public life after moving around a bit. Born in Richfield Springs, he was taken to Kansas City, Missouri when a year old. His father, attorney Herbert Getman, retired in 1910 and came back to Richfield Springs. That same year Dr. Getman graduated from University Medical College in Kansas City, and two years later, when his father’s health broke, he also came back, settling in Oneonta in 1912.

December 1952

30 Years Ago

Unseasonably high temperatures are saving highway budgets a bundle of money this year. Normally snowstorms would have eaten away thousands in road clearing and salting funds by now. Because the city and

~ CRAFTS ~

Fine Traditional & Contemporary Handcrafts By Local Artisans

Girl Scouts from Oneonta and Laurens filled containers with baby items Saturday at Interskate 88. The items are bound for needy mothers and their newborns under the direction of the Prenatal Care Assistance Program (PCAP). Jennifer Holling, a 10year-old from Oneonta, said donating baby items made her feel good. “There are babies that need things,” she said. Kim Perry, an 11-year-old from Oneonta, agreed. “Just the fact that you helped someone makes you feel good,” Perry said. Learning to give to others at a young age is beneficial for the scouts, said leader Amy Foutch. “It helps them understand that there are other people in the world besides them that need things,” Foutch said.

December 1992

10 Years Ago

Oneonta City School District students are among five confirmed and 21 probable cases of whooping cough, a highly contagious disease. The victims range in age from five months to 18 according to Otsego County Public Health Director Kathryn Abernethy.

“It’s an unusually high number of cases compared to other years,” Abernethy said.

“But we don’t want people to worry unnecessarily, because generally this is a disease people don’t contract.”

December 2002

Kristin Sloth

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20 Years Ago

Massage Therapy and Rolfing® by

Visit us November 26 thru December 9 and

Cooper Country

town of Oneonta spend a lot of money each winter for snow removal, the street and highway superintendents for the two municipalities indicated that easing into winter has been easy on their budgets. “It sure saves plenty of money. I can tell you that,” said Ted Christman of the City of Oneonta streets department. He said his department should have a surplus of money left over for materials and wages normally needed in a year of average snowfall. The city allocated $33,250 for salt and sand and has $11,000 left over to date. For workers’ wages to clear snow and sand roads, $20,000 is left over, out of $40,000 allotted.

December 1982

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Lay-away available

454 Main Street • Oneonta • 607-433-2536

Charles Schneider, Music Director & Conductor

Saturday, December 8, 2012, 7:30 p.m.

SUNY Oneonta, Hunt Union Ballroom Beethoven Triple Concerto

Featuring internationally-acclaimed guest artists:

Jungeun Kim, Pianist; Peter Wiley, Cellist; Ida Kavafian, Violinist Also on the program: Mendelssohn's 4th Symphony (Italian) and the premiere of Edward Green's "Once Upon a Time."

Tickets are Adult $30/Student $15 at the door or in advance.

Email: cso@oneonta.edu Phone: 607/436-2670 Online: catskillsymphony.net This performance is made possible with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State Agency.

This performance is supported by SUNY Oneonta.

Directed by JOHN CHAMARD Musical Direction by TIM IVERSEN & KERRI HOGLE Choreography by MICHELLE GARDNER

Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Book by Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse

CAITLIN COOK-WIGHTMAN, D.J. POTTER, GRACE CORKERY, KEARA HAZARD, SARAH HANSEN, LEVI LATOURETTE, ALEXANDRA HENERSON, BENJAMIN DENGLER, FIONA BRENNAN, BENJAMIN BURKE, SARAH LYNN SERAFIN, PATRICIA DELL, CAMERON HAZARD

A-6 HOMETOWN ONEONTA

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

Let Facts Decide Gas Vs. Coal Debate

VOICES/From A4 who honestly were looking for the facts upon which to make a science-based decision were confused. Shame on those who perpetrated that fraud upon an unsuspecting citizenry!

We have also read that gas drilling and transportation result in the release of large quantities of natural gas or methane. Natural gas is a commodity that energy

companies sell to customers.

Any gas that is lost reduces that company’s revenue.

If you were in that business would you knowingly allow your product to be lost before it reaches your customers? Instead you would take steps to reduce those fugitive emissions and thus increase your profit.

However, each of us does contribute to the release of methane to the atmosphere

because we send our trash to landfills. During the process of decomposition our trash produces methane and until recently that gas was, and in some case still is, vented to the atmosphere.

Some companies, like Johnson & Johnson, have located a manufacturing facility adjacent to such a landfill to capture that source of cheap energy.

There is another consequence, or for that matter

an unintended consequence, that can happen when misinformation is used to make public-policy decisions.

NYSEG once operated the Jennison Generating Plant in Bainbridge. The plant actually burned waste tires for part of its fuel. NYSEG charged $1 per tire thus reducing its fuel cost.

However, some people who had seen a tire burning in a field at low temperature and emitting smelly smoke presumed that this plant was doing the same thing and alerted the DEC.

DEC tested the waste stream and it met every criterion they threw at it – at the high temperatures used to burn the tires as fuel they burned clean. Still, in spite of those findings, those who perceived the plant as being “dirty” persisted. Eventually the plant closed.

The next question that comes to mind is, “What happened to all the waste tires?” They started showing up in tire dumps across the state. DEC closed one such disposal facility adjacent to the Hudson River

thought to have one million used tires.

Each tire contains about two gallons of petroleum.

Thus if those tires had caught fire more oil could have spilled into the Hudson River than was spilled by the Exxon Valdez.

We share this community together. Instead of shouting and spreading scientifically unsound information, let’s seek to use the best information in pursuit of the best decisions. We really can’t afford to do otherwise.

Open SundayS 12 pm to 5 pm befOre ChriStmaS! Recipient of the 2010 Small Business Breakthrough Award!

Stop in and celebrate the holiday season with us and check out our wide array of books and gifts for the most discerning shopper.

Grab a cup of hot coffee next door and relax in our warm and cozy atmosphere.

198 Main Street, Oneonta • 607-433-8898 www.greentoadbookstore.com

The Eighth Note Music store

Come in & save!

Free clip-on Guitar tuner (Model: snark sN-1) with each guitar purchased*

gift CertifiCates

10 south main street oneonta

607-432-0344

Treat Yourself!

Traveling Exhibit

*must present coupon

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

to a pair of Dansko’s Holiday Gift Ideas!

St. Nicholas Center

In the Great Hall of St. James’ Church, 305 Main Street, Oneonta. Beginning Tuesday, December 4th, the exhibit will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday, and Sunday 8 a.m. to 12 noon. The last day to see the exhibit will be Monday, December 10th.

$10

Save on ski tune-up Water Street Entrance 607.432.0556 800.439.0556 www.alpineskihut.com

Regular price $45

The St. Nicholas Exhibit provides images of St. Nicholas through the ages using fine art, icons, and toys. For information call (607) 432-1458.

Family-owned business for over 40 years Edward and Ingrid Hofbauer, Owners

‘Tis the Season

to wrap up the savings!

Fashionable Clothing, Scarves, Hats, Handbags, Jewelry &

Don’t Forget the Shoes!

Sofas $ 299 from only

Free!

Through 12/23/12 all sales of $249 or more will receive a refund if it snows 6 inches or more on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2012

recliners $ 199 from only

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

165 Main St., Cooperstown

547 - 6141

Upper Main Street, by the traffic light

LoweST GeT Your Mattress Prices PurchaSe Nobody forsellsless!mattresses

Choice of Stationary Reclining, Sectional and Sleeper Models

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Unadilla • Martin Brook Street • 607-369-3295 Oneonta • 357 Chestnut Street • 607-432-6416 North Norwich • State Hwy 12 North • 607-334-3295 Margaretville • 743 Main Street • 845-586-6295

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s o t o h P Santa

The New York Power Authority’s

BLENHEIM-GILBOA Power Project WHY SHOP LOCAL?

• Keeping dollars local in our community!

• Save time and gas!

• Protect local character and prosperity!

SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT YOU! SHOP LOCAL! From Richfield Springs to Unadilla, Cherry Valley to Morris, Worcester to Edmeston and Cooperstown to Oneonta, invest in our local community that effects your “quality of life”.....most of all, IT’S A GOOD, LOCAL DEAL! Otsego County Chamber of Commerce Barbara Ann Heegan, Executive Director 189 Main Street, Suite 201, Oneonta • 432-4500 www.otsegocountychamber.com

VISITORS CENTER

with

Saturday, December 8 Q 12 Noon - 2 pm

t Free photo with Santa plus a holiday ornament t Free wagon rides (Non-perishable food items will be collected and distributed to local area food banks.)

Holiday trees decorated by local schools and organizations on display from

December 1 - January 3

Q

10 am - 5 pm

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE Blenheim-Gilboa Visitors Center t 1378 State Route 30, North Blenheim, NY 12131

For more information, call NYPA at 800-724-0309 or visit www.nypa.gov/vc/blengil.htm

BGTRPHOAD 10-239-12 B&W Ad.indd 1

11/8/12 10:12 AM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

Gift Pays For Youngsters To Hear Classical Music CSO/From A1 the symphony.”

The anonymous donation covers the cost of tickets for any number of students and up to two adults, per order, or any unaccompanied high school or college student, for any of the five concerts of the season.

The next concert, Beethoven’s “Triple Concerto,” is at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union Ballroom.

In the 2011-12 season, 198 children and their chaperones were able to attend a CSO performance, a number this benefactor hopes to see increase.

“The response has been incredibly positive,” said Wolfanger. “Many of the families have written personal thank-you notes to the donor, which we pass on to the individual.”

One family wrote, “I am a violinist, and it is amazing

for someone to be so generous. I appreciate it, and I think every family that has children does to.”

In a statement, the donor said he (or she, the CSO manager doesn’t know which) wanted to bring his own children to the symphony, but couldn’t afford it.

“Now that I am able to,” the donor said, “I want to make it possible for families to attend concerts together and for children to be exposed to the richness and wonder of live orchestral music.”

“You simply cannot put a value on experiencing live classical music,” said Wolfanger. “It is priceless.”

For more information on how to bring a child to the symphony, call 436-2670.

“It’s such a great offer,” she said. “We want as many people to know about it and take advantage of it as we can.”

Cobbler & Co.

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Moccasins

The Old Blacksmith Shop Gallery

Free cookies and cider during Cherry Valley’s Open House and Sharon Springs’ Victorian Christmas!

Friday through Sunday December 7 to December 9 11 am to 2 pm at

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192 MAIN STREET, SHARON SPRINGS, NY 13459

Five Course New Year’s Eve Dinner

The Gift of Luxury

spa services have returned to the historic village of sharon springs

Spa Services in Historic Sharon Springs

6pm & 9pm Seating Reservations recommended

Holiday Decorations • Toys • Jewelry • Gifts • Expanded lines of Patience Brewster, Jim Shore, Kitras Art Glass, Woodstock Chimes, Woodwick Candles

Dinner Thursday to Sunday Hourly from 5pm Sunday Brunch 8am to 2pm Sunday Afternoon Meals 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Reservations recommended

189 Historic Main st. sHaron springs, nY 13459 (518) 284-2067 www.cobblerandcompany.com

518.284.2105

info@americanhotelny.com

proprietor: Maureen Lodes

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skin care •. massage baskets skincare massage •. natural natural products products •. gift gift baskets

Shop Locally Home shop locally From from home withwith ourour Online Certificates online Gift gift certificates 200 main street . sharon springs . ny 13459 www.springhousespa.com 518 284 2400

ALL-NATURAL SOAP, BATH PRODUCTS All-natural olive oil soap, milk soap, lotions, lip balm, bath oil, bath salts, scrubs, gift baskets, gift sets and more!

197 Main Street Sharon Springs

518-284-2228

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OTSEGO.homes

29 Pioneer St., Cooperstown, NY

ASHLEY

R E A LT Y

CONNOR

607-547-4045

Patricia Ashley – Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner

YeAR ROund LAke PROPeRtY

Located on the east side of Otsego Lake in the Lippitt Development, this well-kept year round home offers shared lake rights and dock space.

Three bedrooms and three baths with a private balcony off one bedroom upstairs.

Newer additions on main level with mudroom entryway and master bedroom suite with doors leading to outside deck.

Living room with stone fireplace. Year round heated sunroom and large wrap-around porch/deck for entertaining overlooks landscaped lawns.

Storage and/or playroom space in walk-out lower level with a two car garage.

Offered by Ashley Connor Realty at $419,000.00 Visit us on the Web at www.ashleyconnorrealty.com • Contact us at info@ashleyconnorrealty.com

For APPoiNtmeNt: Patti Ashley, Broker, 544-1077 • Jack Foster, Sales Agent, 547-5304 •

Nancy Angerer, Sales Agent, 435-3387 Donna Skinner, Associate Broker, 547-8288 • Amy Stack, Licensed Sales Agent, 435-0125

PRicE REDUcED

Jordanville farmhouse built c.1820. Lovely post and beam home with large rooms and many period details. Hand-hewn beams, wide pine floors, hand-planed doors and beautiful cherry staircase. There is a large barn as well as a garage with caretaker’s apartment above. The home has been lovingly restored with painstaking attention to detail. Surrounded by perennial gardens and specimen plantings, the property has been professionally managed and operated as an organic farm as well as a successful B&B. There is a large living room and dining room, parlor, eat-in kitchen, large family room and mud room/laundry on the first floor. Upstairs are six bedrooms, one of which is a large master with stairs to the family room below, and two newly remodeled baths. Recent improvements include a new roof, paint and a new wood/oil furnace. The large barn is in good condition with box stalls and large hay loft. This building is a tour de force of hand-trimmed lumber. The garage building has a two-room apartment above, currently occupied in exchange for estate care. The house and 52 acres are on the north side of Main Street. There are 80 acres across the street which are available either with the house or by themselves. This acreage is leased to a local Mennonite farmer for this season and is managed organically for grains only. House and Barn with 52 acres for $289,000. House and Barn with 132 acres $389,000. Present all offers. Listing # c-0201

LAMB REALTY

Out Ahead of the Flock!

Tel/Fax: 607-547-8145

20 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown

DONNA THOMSON, Broker/Owner 607-547-5023 • www.lambrealty.net • E-mail: realestate@lambrealty.net

BARBARA LAMB, Associate Broker 607-547-8145

ROBERT ScHNEiDER, Sales Associate 607-547-1884

DOTTiE GEBBiA, Associate Broker 607-435-2192

Home of the Week Dramatic anD Dazzling (7623) Custom, 3 BR/3 BA Pierstown Dutch Colonial enriched by valley views on 9.5 acres.

Light and airy, w/finished basement, formal LR and DR. 2 Rumford fireplaces. Working kitchen w/eating area and keeping room. Gracious 4-season room leads to patio, deck, hot tub.

Hand-hewn beams, period hardware, wide pine flooring throughout—Colonial ambiance!

One-owner. Cooperstown Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive. $479,000

157 Main St., Cooperstown • 547-5740 • www.hubbellsrealestate.com

A-8 HOMETOWN ONEONTA

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

Friends Celebrate Famed Bresee’s Waitress On 95th Birthday 95th/From A1 Candyland, and I told my two sons, Bill and Bob, to meet me after school,” she said. “I took them by the hand to meet with Fred, and I told him, ‘I got two boys to bring up alone, and I got two willing hands’.”

He told her that he couldn’t hire her while she was still working elsewhere, so she left her sons with him and put in her notice at Candyland.

She stayed at Bresee’s for 35 years.

Known for her bright red lipstick and big rhinestone earrings, she quickly became one of the most wellknown faces in Oneonta after she appeared in the Nov. 12, 1948, issue of Collier’s magazine. A photograph of her in her blue uniform dress accompanied the article “We’re Tellin’ You, Macy’s!” listing Bresee’s as one of the biggest competitors to the famous chain.

“You could buy anything you wanted there,” she said. “And we were the first place in Oneonta to have an escalator.”

Dinner was $1.50 and a black-and-white sundae – vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream and marshmallows – was 15 cents.

“We had ‘The Bucket,’ eight scoops of ice cream and all kinds of toppings for a dollar. Took four or five people to eat it, but I had one guy come to my counter and order it for himself. I don’t know how he did it, but he ate the whole thing!”

She had her regulars, a coffee club of businessmen who used to tease her.

“They picked on me some-

This image, from a 1948 issue of Collier’s magazine, reported on Muriel Ross’ prowess behind the counter a Bresee’s Health Bar. Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

To mark Muriel Ross’ 35 years serving ice cream at Bresee’s Health Bar, friends gathered Friday, Nov. 30, at Golden Guernsey Ice Cream to celebrate her 95th birthday. Muriel, in red on right, is surrounded by pals Lorraine Patton, Sheila Fritzy, Avon Luckhurst, Cathleen Shearer, Betty Clark, Annie Utter and Connie Quackenbush.

thing terrible, but I gave it right back,” she said. “I had a couple from England who I had waited on once come back and ask one of the Bresee’s if I still worked there.”

And she had plenty of fans too. “Kids like me couldn’t wait to go to the Health Bar and see what kind of earrings she was wearing,” said Kathleen Shearer, who helped Muriel celebrate her 95th birthday with the “Golden Guernsey Gals.”

She kept her customers entertained with her witty banter and sense of humor.

“I had all sorts of gadgets,” she said. “If someone asked for a half a cup of coffee, I had a half-cup I would put

Betsinger Wins Siegfried Prize

it in,” she said. “And I had a cup that wouldn’t come off the saucer.”

She was so well-liked, Bresee’s declared Sept. 30 “Muriel Ross Day” and took an ad out in the paper proclaiming it such. “They wanted to give me a big party, but I declined,” she

said.

Muriel retired in 1978. “I stayed home for two weeks, cleaned the house, then I told my husband Anthony that I had to do something.”

She started volunteering at Fox Hospital and the nursing home where, 34 years later, she still helps

All

with the bloodmobile, restocks the book cart and the waiting-room magazines, and, true to her famous waitress roots, helps in the kitchen with special dinners and events.

At 95, she still wears her bright red lipstick, colorful blouses and rhinestone earrings. She meets monthly with the Golden Guernsey Gals, and recently got back into country line dancing, which she had to stop two years ago because of a hip

replacement. “The nurse told me that it was the end of my dancing,” she said. “I told her, ‘it most certainly is not!’”

And she still sees some of her old customers. “I was walking in Virginia Beach and Nick Lambros’ daughter called out my name!” she said. “No matter where I go, I see people I know.”

“I really worked hard,” she said. “But I had a lot of fun doing it too.”

OTSEGO.homes

Thinking of Remodeling?

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FOR SALE BY OWNER

LGROUP@STNY.RR.COM www.leatherstockingmortgage.com 607-547-5007 (Office) 800-547-7948 (Toll Free)

New Purchases and refinances • Debt Consolidation Free Pre-Qualification • Fast Approvals • Low Rates Registered Mortgage Broker Matt Schuermann NYS Banking Dept.

Loans arranged by a 3rd party lender.

31 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown (directly next door to Stagecoach Coffee)

216 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 • Tel: 607-547-8551/Fax: 607-547-1029 www.johnmitchellrealestate.com • info@johnmitchellrealestate.com

Priced to Sell!

SUNY Oneonta Anthropology Assistant Professor Tracy Betsinger has won the 2012 Richard Siegfried Junior Faculty Prize for Academic Excellence. As part of the prize, she will deliver her lecture, “Vampire and Myth: Views of the Undead from Historical and Bioarchaeological Perspectives,” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, in the Craven Lounge of the Morris Conference Center.

Come Home for tHe Holidays

Lovely 3 BR, 2 bath Cooperstown Village home features LR with skylights and first floor BR both accessing private patio. Located on a dead-end street close to schools, hospital, Clark Sports Center, and. Priced to sell at $249,900 MLS#86999 Private Cape Cod on 20 wooded acres only minutes from Glimmerglass Opera.

Home features 2 BRs upstairs, 1 BR on main level, 2½ baths, DR leading to deck, spacious LR, large modern kitchen, tiled entrance, finished basement, new 3-car garage. Otsego Lake access w/boat slips, swimming and more.

Price reduced to $239,000 MLS#81512 Dave LaDuke Broker 435-2405; Mike Winslow Broker 435-0183; Tony Gambino 516-384-0095; Mike Swatling 435-6454; Joe Valette 437-5745; Laura Coleman 437-4881; John LaDuke 267-8617

$269,900

$260,000

One-of-a-kind historic home on a large center City of Oneonta lot!

Stately brick home was built for a wealthy merchant’s family and boasts 16 rooms! Centrally located within walking distance of downtown, colleges, A.O. Fox Hospital and parks. Three of the original BRs were converted into a 1-BR apt and studio apt. The remainder of the house has 2 BRs, large kitchen, 2 baths, formal LR, second LR/parlor, family room and den. Original chestnut woodwork, including 4 sets of working pocket doors, hardwood floors and 2 beautiful fireplaces. Well maintained. Easily converted back to single-family home. Large lot with fruit trees and flower gardens, and 2-story masonry garage which once housed the chauffeur!

$295,000 CALL 607-433-0714 tO SEt up AN AppOiNtmENt tO SEE thiS BEAutiFuL hiStORiC hOmE!

the region’s largest real-estate section. MORE LISTINGS ON PAGE a7 & A10

HUBBELL’S REAL ESTATE (607) 547-5740 • (607) 547-6000 (fax) 157 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326

E-Mail Address: info@hubbellsrealestate.com Visit Our Web Site at www.hubbellsrealestate.com

$154,900

$139,000

$199,900

$269,000

$339,900

otsego LakeFront year-round!

canadarago Lake on 8.6 acres

(7655) Beautiful 1880 Greek Revival has custom kitchen open to sunroom and deck, 5 BR, 2 bath, LR w/gas fireplace, den/studio, newer windows and roof, 2-car attached garage, PLUS remodeled 4 BR/2 bath cottage with a history of weekly summer rentals.

Shared 250´ lake frontage. Richfield Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive. $539,000

$549,000

$469,000

For reliable, honest answers to any of your real estate questions, Don Olin Realty at 607.547.5622 or visit our website www.donlinrealty.com For Appointment Only Call: M. Margaret Savoie – Broker/Owner – 547-5334 Marion King – Associate Broker – 547-5332 Don Olin – Associate Broker – 547-8782 Eric Hill – Associate Broker – 547-5557 Don DuBois – Associate Broker – 547-5105 Tim Donahue – Associate Broker – 293-8874 Cathy Raddatz – Sales Associate – 547-8958 Jacqueline Savoie -Sales Associate -547-4141 Carol Hall - Sales Associate -544-4144

Don Olin REALTY

Make yourself at home on our website, www.donolinrealty.com, for listings and information on unique and interesting properties.We'll bring you home!

37 Chestnut st., Cooperstown • phone: 607-547-5622 • Fax: 607-547-5653

www.donolinrealty.com

PARKING IS NEVER A PROBLEM

Make yourself at Home on our website http://www.donolinrealty.com for listings and information on unique and interesting properties. We'll bring you Home!

LavisH HoMe on 20 acres

(7546) A gracious setting and so much more! Nearly new 3 BR/2 bath with 50´ of lakefront w/wide-span views. Features include butternut floors, hand-hewn beam ceilings, ceramic tile baths, custom kitchen.

Welcoming 1 BR separate Gothic-inspired guest house, lge deck w/hot tub, lake shed, boat lifts, lge dock, concrete sea wall, parking for 4. Cooperstown Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive $625,000

(7572) Settle down or entertain in this 3 BR, 3+ bath residence with great valley views.

Custom kitchen w/granite countertops, breakfast nook.Formal DR, den, main-level master BR, radiant-floor heat, outdoor wood furnace, thermal glass, cherry floors, lge front porch.

2-car garage w/studio apt. Cooperstown Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive. $490,000

Private 100 acres

FLy creek HoMe on 2+ acres

(7622) Secluded 4 BR/2+ bath Dutch Colonial has bay window with a great valley view.

Accents include fireplace w/woodstove, den family room, finished walk-out basement, home office, 2-car garage, large deck. Only 3½ miles from C’town. Cooperstown Schools.

Hubbell’s Co-Exclusive. $329,000

(7104) Incredible valley views on a private road. Trails throughout, fantastic hunting, small pond. Adjacent to County forest. Old farmhouse needs work. Solar powered 35x10 getaway, open floorplan,1 BR. Possible owner financing. 8 miles from Cooperstown.

Hubbell’s Exclusive $189,000

otsego Lake Lot in cooPerstown

(7407) Choice building site with excellent lake views and w/ lake access and beach are directly in front of property. Level lot, easy to build on.

Hubbell’s Exclusive $295,000

Mini FarM on 14+ acres

(7551) 1850s Eyebrow Colonial with a valley view. This 3 BR home features a back porch, beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, formal DR. A fix-up! Horse barn w/4 box stalls, riding rink, hi-tensile fence. CV-S Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive. $134,000

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9

Owner Cormier Says He’ll Close Oneonta Theatre At Year’s End CORMIER/From A1 “It will be an unfortunate loss to the downtown,” said Julia Goff, Main Street Oneonta executive director. “It pulled in people from outlying areas,” people who then shopped or dined downtown. “Tom did a great job of renovating and putting on shows people wanted to see,” she said.

Performances are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 7 (Start Making Sense, a Talking Heads tribute band) and Saturday, Dec. 8 (Jimkata, consisting of city natives who are going national previewing their CD album, “Die Digital.”)

“It’s not what my heart wants to do,” said Cormier.

“My heart wants to find a (non-profit) group to turn it into the community’s livingroom for the next 200 years.” The logical choice would be FOTOT, Friends of the Oneonta Theatre; its leader, SUNY Oneonta Theater Professor Patrice Macaluso, said her board planned to meet with Cormier next Tuesday, the 11th, to see what role FOTOT might play. “The board has always been very supportive of what Tom’s trying to do,” she said.

Without the theatre, Cormier said, rents allow the building to operate on a break-even basis. But the time he must devote to the theatre, particularly with the

resignation of his theatre manager, Dan Skinner, prevents him from working on his main business – Installation Technologies, which installs high-tech residential security systems throughout the region.

Sound had been added in 1926 and the original opera house was converted into a cinema, but it had been vacant for several years when Cormier bought it on July 1, 2009.

For a while, he rented

One OPD Position Eliminated As Council OKs 2013 Budget

A

fter a final dustup over OPD hiring, Common Council Tuesday, Dec. 4, approved City Hall’s spending plan for 2013.

Council Member Mike Lynch made a motion to restore two police positions eliminated last week, but his motion died for lack of a second.

Council Member Maureen Hennessey then made a motion to save one position, eliminating the second. That passed, 6-2, with

the theatre to FOTOT, but assumed management after six months. After months of renovations – and a May 2010 sold-out benefit concert by Jerry Jeff Walker, the hometown boy who wrote “Mr. Bojangles” – he opened it for entertainment on July 31, 2010.

At first operating with Jon Weiss, a New York City rock promoter then living in Franklin, Cormier brought in such acts as The Loving Spoonfuls’ Jon Sebastian

and The Byrds’ Roger McGuinn.

In January 2011, Mayor Miller assumed the presidency of the Foothills Performing Arts board, determined that venue, built with $6 million in state funds, succeed. That, said Cormier, was tough to compete with, although he experimented with programming – continuing to tailor performances to a younger crowd, showing first-run movies and hosting local

Ring In The New Year

Lynch and Council Member Chip Holmes, who wanted both positions eliminated, voting nay.

Both positions would have raised the number of city police officers to 29; this reduces it to 28.

Council also agreed to offer a job to Anthony Capistro, whom the city had just paid to attend police academy. However, council learned a veteran officer is retiring, so the complement remains at 27.

– Libby Cudmore

theater groups – to do so.

He learned it cost $4,500 a month for heat during the winter, so he developed a smaller balcony theater and closed the main hall during those months.

“I have reached out to everybody for help – the city, not-for-profits,” said the businessman. “I have worked hard to keep it open.

But there’s been no one out there to help me. I can’t do it alone.”

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Ways!

LET’S SPEND THE NIGHT TOGETHER! ALL NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE PACKAGE ONLY $365 PER COUPLE

Dine on Surf & Turf, Mesquite-Grilled Filet of Beef, New Zealand T-Bone Lamb Chop, Pan-Seared Chicken Breast, Baked Halibut or Osso Bucco in the Hawkeye Grill from 5:30PM-10:00PM. Also enjoy a live DJ from 9:00PM-1:00AM, a midnight champagne toast, a traditional guest room (upgrade available at an additional charge), cordial & chocolates in your room, and two delicious Holiday Breakfasts New Year’s morning (8:00AM-11:00AM). All for only $365.00 per couple.

For more information and to make your party reservations call (607) 544-2502 or Reservation1@Otesaga.com.

Unreserved Artifact & Knife Auction

The Collections of John Kucharek & Paul Dabulewicz

Thursday, December 13, 2012 - 4:30 pm Hesse Galleries, 350 Main Street, Otego, New York

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100’s of Knives, Ethnographics & Taino Artifacts You may print a color order of sale from our website

www.HESSEGALLERIES.com

Attend this sale or bid in absentia - there is no charge for this service. You may also view this sale at AuctionZip.com, auctioneer #2029

ROMANTIC NEW YEAR’S DINNER FOR TWO.

• New Year’s Eve appetizers: Choice of Lobster Bisque, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Crab Cakes, Pan-Seared Duck Breast, or Heirloom Tomatoes & Buffalo Mozzarella • Select from Surf & Turf, Mesquite-Grilled Filet of Beef, New Zealand T-Bone Lamb Chop, Pan-Seared Chicken Breast, Baked Halibut or Osso Bucco • Dinner seating from 5:30PM – 10:00PM • Cash bar until 1:00AM • Champagne toast at midnight • Music for dancing from 9:00PM-1:00AM • Holiday favors

For more information and to make your dinner reservations call (607) 544-2524.

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NEW YEAR’S EVE ROOM INCLUDES HOLIDAY BREAKFAST TOO ONLY $229.00 Wherever you’re celebrating, spend the night at The Otesaga. Just $229.00 per room, single or double occupancy, and includes our very special Holiday Breakfast on New Year’s morning.

For non-Hotel guests, the Holiday Breakfast is $20.00 per person and will be served from 8:00AM-11:00AM.

For more information and to make your room reservations call (607) 544-2502 or Reservation1@Otesaga.com.

Over 100 years of Gracious Hospitality® THE OTESAGA RESORT HOTEL, 60 LAKE STREET, COOPERSTOWN, NY 13326 • OTESAGA.COM

AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS Dedicated to both Seller & Buyer

607-988-2523

All Sales Final

10% B P

This ThisHoliday Holiday Season, Season, Givethe thegift giftofofIndependenceIndependence Give

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We look forward to having you become part of our orthodontic family EFK Plaza, 338 E. St. Street Herkimer, NY 13350 315-866-2344 Fax: 315-866-1420

10 Dietz Street Oneonta, NY 13820 607-431-1021 Fax: 607-433-1457

29 Pioneer Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 607-547-2121 Fax: 607-547-5935

www.carusoortho.com

Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System Or or At Home Care Partners, Inc. At Home Care Partners, Inc. Personal Care Service Personal Care Service Provided in the comfort of your own home.

Provided in the comfort of your own home.

Caring Caringfor forthe the residents residents ofof Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer & Otsego Counties since 1987 Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer & Otsego Counties since 1987 For more information call 800-783-0613 or 607-432-7924 For more information call 800-783-0613 or 607-432-7634

All

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THURSDAY-FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6-7, 2012

OTSEGO.homes

4914 St. Hwy. 28, CooperStown 607-547-5933 75 Market Street, oneonta 607-433-1020

MLS#85803 - 45 ft of deeded frontage on Canadarago Lake. Completely furnished 4 BR, 2 bath home on 1.4 acres, second flr totally remodeled. Covered front porch facing lake w/aluminum dock and boat lift. $169,900 Call Rod and Barb 315-520-6512

MLS#85601 - Manufactured home on a ½ acre w/lots of wildlife to enjoy from your deck. Newer windows, new metal roof, 2 BRs, 2 baths, kitchen, DR, LR, and lrg garage. $49,900 Call Linda Wheeler @ 607-434-2125

MLS#86251 - Ranch home a mile from town with 4 BRs, open floorplan, garage, nice backyard…many updates! $139,000 Call Brad @ 607-434-9234

MLS#84359 - Charming 2-family home convenient to Cooperstown and Albany. Downstairs–1 BR, upstairs, 2–BR. Live in 1 unit and rent the other. Owner motivated. $80,000 Call Michelle Curran @ 518-469-5603

Tim mcGraw

MLS#86175 - Totally rebuilt 4 BR, 2 bath home w/3-bay garage and workshop on oversized lot. New kitchen, new floors throughout, new electric, plumbing, windows, roof, furnace, hwh. Full bath, laundry/½ bath, fireplace in LR. $149,900 Call Tom Platt @ 607-435-2068

MLS#87014 - Well-maintained historic 4+ apt building.

Live in one unit and let your tenants pay your mortgage. $179,000 Call Michelle Curran @ 518-469-5603

MLS#84000 - Westford log home on 5 acres with many updates and a large 4-car garage…secluded and close to 801 acres of State land! $186,900 Call Brad @ 607-434-9234

MLS#86479 - West-end Oneonta ranch is perfect for those just starting out or looking to downsize. Lots of updates: windows, insulation, roof, and bath. Motivated seller! $134,900 Call David for more information @ 607-435-4800

MLS#86057 - Charming 3 BR farmhouse is just what you are looking for. Countless updates, detached 1-car garage.

Just a short drive from everything! Delhi schools! $99,900 Call David for more information @ 607-435-4800

MLS#87103 - Charming 2-story home w/3 BR, 1 ½ baths.

Close to Cooperstown and Cooperstown schools. $79,000 Call Frank @ (607) 435-1389

MLS#85154 - Greek Revival, 4 BR, 1 ½ bath, 2+ car garage.

Spacious rooms, eat-in kitchen, DR, LR, office/den, storage/ workshop, original wood floors, newer carpeting. New septic, hwh and newer furnace! Cooperstown Schools. $139,000 Call Kathy @ 607-267-2683

Available exclusively by RealtyUSA.com through The Rain Day Foundation H.E.L.P Program

MLS#84867 – Early 1800s farmhouse w/3 BRs, 2 baths, wide plank flrs, original woodwork, 2 fireplaces, hand-hewn beams, updated baths, laundry, furnace, and electric, 2-car attached garage, barn/workshop w/electric and woodstove, brick patio, pool and chicken coop on 5+/- acres. $159,900 Call Kathy @ 607-267-2683

MLS#86265 - Great location! High traffic and great visibility on Main St in Oneonta. 3000 sq ft bldg, numerous rooms, office space, bathrms, clean full basement, parking for 20+ cars, handicapped accessible, very well maintained. $219,000 Call Brad @ 607-434-9234 All offers considered!

MLS#86186 - Stunning Victorian on a ½ acre lot.

Impeccable home w/5-6 BRs, 1 ½ baths, laundry, study, htd front porch and back sunroom, work or hobby shop, family rm, LR, DR, and eat-in kitchen. Foyer w/original staircase and stained glass. Newer roof, septic and hwh.

Driveway, garage, gazebo, garden shed and small barn.

Central to Cooperstown, Norwich, Oneonta and Utica!! $164,000 Call Kathy @ 607-267-2683

MLS#81749 - Chalet set on 70 acres of wooded property w/creek and ATV trails. Cathedral ceilings, loft BR and family rm. Woodstove heat w/co-op electric as backup. $239,900 Call Tom @ 607-435-2068

MLS#85556 - Totally furnished creekside bungalow w/2 lrg decks. Completely landscaped, w/boat mooring, 2 BRs, 1 bath. Hyder Creek navigable to Canadarago Lake. $149,500 Call Rod and Barb @ 315-520-6512

MLS# 83154 - Great location! Build your business here!

2 miles from Cooperstown, 1.2 miles from Dreams Park.

Road frontage on St Hwy 28. 4.5 acres with 700+ sq. ft. building in place. Thousands of cars pass this location daily. $399,000 Call Rod and Barb @ 315-520-6512

MLS#82825 – Charming 3BR Craftsman Cape Cod w/2 fireplaces, window seat, leaded glass windows, built-in cabinets and shelving, hardwood floors. Deck overlooking ½-acre backyard and 2-story carriage barn. $159,900 Call Tom Platt @ 607-435-2068

for complete listings visit us at realtyusa . com

Since 1947, our personal service has always been there when you need it most. With comprehensive coverage for all your AUTO • HOME • LIFE insurance needs.

BUSINESS

Hours: M-F 8am-5pm Phone: 607-432-2022 22-26 Watkins Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820

oneontarealty.com Open and Bright!

2 Br, 2 bath home with Fp, sunroom, wood floors, finished basement. Large yard, fruit trees, flower gardens and patio. don’t miss out on this gem. $115,000 MLS #87208 WeLL Maintained!

3 Br home on 6 acres w/ small pond. dr is open to large bright Lr. relax outside on the deck while watching the wildlife and enjoying the views! $119,900 MLS #86997

SILENT NIGHTS

And joy filled days can be yours in this beautiful, newer 4 BR, 3 Bath home.

There is a 2 car attached garage, radiant heat and gas fireplace.

Delightful, tranquil and move in ready.

Own your dream home today! $259,900 MLS#87169 (607) 431-2540 • www.prufoxproperties.com

Advertise in

AllOTSEGO.homes

Lizabeth Rose, Broker/Owner Cricket Keto, Lic. Assoc. Broker John Mitchell, Lic. Assoc. Broker Stephen Baker, Lic. Assoc. Broker Peter D. Clark, Consultant

locally owned & operated single & multi-family homes, commercial property & land

office 441.7312 • fax 432.7580 99 Main St Oneonta • oneontarealty.com

Great House and Location for Your Family!

Built in 1963 by the current owner, this well maintained bi-level ranch has a 2-car garage. Entry level has LR w/fireplace, DR, eat-in kitchen with cherry cabinets, 2 of the 4 BRs, full bath and lots of closets. Lower level has 2 BRs, full bath, family room with working fireplace, laundry/workshop area, plus a separate entry. Located on a quiet street in a desirable family neighborhood in Canajoharie, close to highly rated schools. Low-cost natural gas baseboard heat with modern furnace, natural gas hot water, good insulation and storm windows. Half-acre lot with plenty of room to play. Centrally located between Albany and Utica on the NYS Thruway, 30 minutes from Cooperstown. Floor plan available by e-mail.

For sale by owner—$120,000. Call 607-547-7210 or e-mail 2GarlockStreet@gmail.com

Center City Bargain!

Solid two story family home, with natural Chestnut Woodwork, solid hardwood floors under carpet, spacious rooms, floor to ceiling oak Gram-ma cupboards in kitchen and farmhouse style sink. Rocking chair front porch, level backyard with patio area and one car garage.Some HGTV Magic and you have a very charming home. Don’t miss out on a great opportunity. $108,500. MLS#86744

CELEBRATE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS! The Otesaga’s Big Little Holiday Party Fri., Dec. 7th • 6:00PM-Midnight • Only $55.00 per person Join other local companies and business organizations at one large economical holiday party. Get a lot for a little while you share the joy of the season with your friends and area business associates. Everyone’s invited...singles, couples, clubs, small groups, companies...the more the merrier! Only $55.00 per person.

6:00PM-7:00PM Open bar & hors d’oeuvres in The Hotel Lobby 7:00PM-9:00PM Sumptuous, multi-station Holiday Buffet in the Main Dining Room 9:00PM-Midnight A jolly DJ for your holiday dancing pleasure

Space is limited! Make your reservations today!

Call Maitre d’ Lori Patryn at (607) 544-2519 to make reservations for our one-of-a-kind holiday party.

All major credit cards are accepted.

THE OTESAGA RESORT HOTEL, 60 LAKE ST., COOPERSTOWN, NY 13326 • OTESAGA.COM