Board Discusses County and State Finances, Development, Government Transparency
By BILL BELLEN
OTSEGO COUNTY
hortly before the Wednesday, October 1 meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, the Public Safety and Legal Affairs Committee convened for a brief meeting of its own. Otsego County Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr. used this time to request approval to contract with
CFG Health in New Jersey to supply jail medical services for the county. The proposal included a threeyear contract with a year one price of $777,262.00. Committee Chair Daniel Wilber said the contract had been talked about extensively already, and the proposal was subsequently passed. Devlin noted it will save the county about $150,000.00 over an unspecified time period.
Chairman Edwin Frazier Jr.
began the first public hearing of the morning shortly thereafter, regarding an additional mortgage tax for Otsego County. As no one stood to address the board, this hearing was adjourned. The board then transitioned to a second public hearing on a proposed “local law to override the tax levy limit established in general municipal law 3C.” Once more, no audience members spoke, and so the
Continued on page 13
Senator Oberacker Announces Run for Congress in New York-19
ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL
SCHENEVUS
State Senator Peter Oberacker, a Republican, announced his candidacy for the hotly contested 19th New York Congressional District the morning of Monday, September 6 at the Schenevus fire station. He is challenging incumbent Rep. Josh Riley, a Democrat. Oberacker is the first major challenger to declare their candidacy.
After being introduced by New York State Assemblyman Chris Tague, Oberacker told the around 30 assembled supporters he made the decision to run after consulting his family, who he thanked.
“There really are two things you should never see being made: laws and sausage,” Oberacker said. “And I do know both,” he added, referencing his father’s business as a sausage maker.
Oberacker described his story as being the American Dream, “growing up and learning the values of hard work and dedication, as I did from my father, the story of my mother instilling in me a sense of community and service.” Oberacker’s mother was also a local elected official.
2024. In a closely divided Congress, the district has maintained national attention and will likely draw millions of dollars of out-ofdistrict investment on both sides.
Oberacker’s first elected office was as a Maryland Town Board member, followed by two terms as the town’s supervisor. He won the 51st State Senate district in 2020, and re-election in 2022 and 2024. The district includes all of Otsego, Delaware, Schoharie, and Sullivan counties, and some of Broome, Chenango, and Ulster counties. He currently serves as the ranking member for the State Senate’s Transportation and Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders standing committees.
“Every step of the way,” Oberacker said, he was focused on “serving the people, not political insiders, not special interests, and not career bureaucrats.” He said he “fought to protect taxpayers and stop Albany from making their lives less affordable.”
Oberacker emphasized his opposition to New York’s bail reform law, and opposition to utility rate hikes “even when my party told me not to.” He also highlighted his advocacy for whole milk to be in schools, and against “the
Continued on page 6
‘Sandy’ Huntington Honored at Pine Lake Memorial
By MARIA GRISWOLD DAVENPORT
On Saturday, September 20, a memorial service was held in honor of Hartwick Professor Emeritus C.W. “Sandy” Huntington. The service took place at the Strawbale House, where Hartwick faculty and alumni dedicated a plaque to Huntington for his leadership in building the Strawbale House and Cob House.
The Strawbale House was constructed by students, volunteers and local builders as part of a course taught by Huntington, titled “Architecture of the Sacred.” This course was
religious studies class offered at Hartwick from 2000-2004,
to help students understand the sacred aspects of
architecture in other cultures. Construction on the Strawbale House began in 2000, and was completed in 2002. The house was built using straw in order to sustainably insulate the structure.
Huntington was born on February 24, 1949. He grew up in East Lansing, Michigan, and attended Michigan State University. Post-graduation, he traveled to Norway, where his passion for literature and language was born. He found a focus in Buddhist studies, and earned his PhD. Huntington later spent four years in India with his wife, Elizabeth, for part of his graduate training, where
Continued on page 6
The 19th District, stretching from the Ithaca area to the Massachusetts border and containing Otsego County, was decided by less than 10,000 votes in
Photo by Eric Santomauro-Stenzel
State Senator Peter Oberacker launched his congressional campaign at the fire station in Schenevus, before heading to other events in Delhi and Monticello.
Photo by Maria Griswold
Elizabeth Huntington, accompanied by host Joe Ficano, shares reflections on Sandy’s life with those gathered for the memorial service.
Meadowbrook Bridge Shut Down, Drawing Access Concerns A
Tentative Schedule Says Access Will Be Restored in the Fall of 2027, Locals Say Too Late
By ERIC SANTOMAUROSTENZEL GILBERTSVILLE
On September 2, the Village of Gilbertsville announced on Facebook that the village’s main bridge, the Meadowbrook Bridge on County Highway 4, would be shut down for safety concerns. That makes for the third closed bridge in the village of just over 300 people, as of the 2020 census.
The village announcement said, “This is a full closure—no vehicles or pedestrians. Expected through Oct 2027 (subject to change).” The bridge is a short one, without lanes.
The closure came after an inspection by the New York State Department of Transportation “revealed significant structural deterioration that merited the bridge’s closure,” according to NYSDOT Regional Spokesperson Daniel Scharfenberger.
“Further questions about the bridge should be directed to Otsego County, which owns the structure and is responsible for its maintenance,” Scharfenberger said.
“rooms can flash over in ~3–5 minutes, shrinking the escape/survivability
window by ~85–90%.”
Woishnis requested the county provide interim
access within 30 days, accelerated construction by 2026 “if practicable,”
using “emergency procurement” to speed up the process, and provide transparency all throughout. At the Board of Representatives meeting, Village Improvement Society of Gilbertsville Secretary Teresa Winchester read aloud the group’s concerns. She said funding for a replacement was secured in 2023 for 2025 construction. “Obviously, that did not happen,” Winchester read. The group’s letter said the 2027 construction date was “unacceptable.” The group said the bridge closure is having a negative impact on local businesses.
In an interview,
The job scene job scene
Otsego County Administrator Steve Wilson told AllOtsego the bridge “has had a weight limit restriction for several years due to loss of parts of the steel superstructure.” Therefore, he said, the bridge has been inspected annually by NYSDOT.
“At the latest inspection, there was additional erosion of steel that resulted in a recommended posting of no more than two tons on that bridge” and NYSDOT “will not allow a bridge to remain open if its weight rating drops below three tons,” according to Wilson.
Some residents say the timeline of 2027 for fixes is too long. In a letter presented to the Otsego County Board of Representatives at their October 1 meeting, Gilbertsville Mayor Aidan Woishnis expressed concern about emergency service access with “a two-year gap on a primary ingress/ egress for Gilbertsville.” Woishnis wrote that the closure adds five minutes to trips, which “may not seem like much, but in emergency medicine it’s associated with more than a 50% drop in survival odds for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (≤6 minutes vs >10 minutes).”
He also wrote that in modern building fires
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Administrator Wilson told AllOtsego “as it stands right now, the project will be bid out for construction in the summer of ‘26. Construction can’t really start until the summer of ‘27, and generally takes three to six months to complete for a project of this size.”
He added that the county has been trying to procure funds to fix the bridge since 2016, and the 2023 New York Bridge grant required “extensive regulatory review” for any environmental and historical issues.
“The protracted timeline from award to
Continued on page 12
Visit www.oncboces.org for details and to submit your application. EOE Deputy Treasurer
(full-time)
The Village of Cooperstown is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Deputy Treasurer. This is a full-time position and duties will include payroll processing, accounts payable and receivable, personnel, Water and Sewer billing, and other related duties. The starting pay rate is $20- $22 per hour. Benefits include paid vacation, holidays, sick time, personal days, and health insurance.
Please send resume, cover letter and references to Jenna L. Utter, Village Clerk, Village of Cooperstown, PO Box 346, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Any questions regarding this position should be directed to the Village Administrator at 607-547-2411. Candidates must be Otsego County residents. EOE.
Experience preferred but
Please send cover letter and resume to info@allotsego.com,
Photo by Teresa Winchester
The Meadowbrook Bridge on County Highway 4 in Gilbertsville is expected to be out of commission for two years.
HOMETOWN Views
EDITORIaL
Setting Some Expectations for this Election Season and Beyond
It’s no secret we live in divisive, even dangerous, times. We at AllOtsego believe the answer is more discourse, not less. As we approach the oft-overlooked but always impactful upcoming local elections on November 4, we are excited to bring you, over the coming weeks, some of our most comprehensive electoral coverage in years. Contrary to popular belief, it is these elections that have the most immediate impact on our communities. Ensuring water is safe to drink, fires are put out, parks are clean, housing is safe, roads are paved, and so much more, are all issues most directly addressed by the people elected to village, town, and county government. Yet these races are almost always decided by a small fraction of those who show up for presidential elections. We hope that by giving these races the attention they deserve, with whatever resources our small newsroom has, more of our fellow Otsego County residents will cast informed ballots for the candidates of their choice.
Already, we have sent out questionnaires to a number of candidates for local office, with more to come. As discussed in our September 11, 2025 editorial, “If the Media Is To Be Trusted, They Must Publish Responsibly,” we will neither add nor omit words from candidates’ responses to those questions. Constituents deserve to hear what candidates believe in their own words.
By that same token, candidates should know that in a democracy it is their obligation to speak publicly and transparently about their policy positions. If we do not receive responses, we will say so.
We will also report news stories on these elections, and have already covered some campaign events. We invite all local candidates, from all parties and political persuasions, to send us press advisories and releases with information about how we can do that. Are you hosting a rally? A fundraiser? Knocking on doors? Announcing a set of policies? Earned an endorsement? Speaking at some other kind of event? We want to know about it, ideally a few days or more ahead of time.
As we deem relevant, we may also pursue stories about trends in who is supporting whom, what issues have become salient, vetting candidates’ histories, controversies which arise, and other things we think you, faithful reader, may wish to know about for the purpose of making your decision. In all of this, our top priorities are to be fair and accurate, without fear or favor toward any candidate or party.
We similarly invite readers to submit letters to the editor expressing their support for different candidates. We will work hard to ensure balance, with the caveat that we can only publish the perspectives which we receive (and which do not contain false or unsubstantiated factual claims). If you feel there is a gap in expressed support for a candidate, well, be the change you wish to see in the world, and send one over!
This week, we kick things off with Q&A responses from candidates for the positions of City of Oneonta mayor and Town of Hartwick supervisor. Local elections impact each and every one of us. Your local paper is here to share information as you consider your options for representation on Election Day.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
“Hometown Oneonta” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper. They must include the writer’s name, address, email and telephone/ mobile number; the opinions expressed must be the writer’s own. Hostile, offensive, factually incorrect or excessively inflammatory content will not be published. Preferred length is no more than 250 words. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com.
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.
Advertising Director / Publisher Emerita Tara Barnwell General Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs
Staff Writer: Eric Santomauro-Stenzel Office Manager: Larissa Ryan Sales Consultant: Randy Christian Intern: Arya Patel
Columnists and Contributing Writers Bill Bellen, Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Maria Griswold, Chris Kjolhede, Larry Malone, Cassandra Miller, Wriley Nelson, Tom Shelby, Gayane Torosyan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin
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Published Thursdays by Iron String Press, Inc. 21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326 Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. Email: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc.
LaSTIng ImPRESSIOnS K aROLIna HOPPER
Fenimore Chamber Orchestra Opens Season to Capacity Crowd
Fenimore Chamber Orchestra made a very welcome return to Cooperstown, presenting the opening concert of the 2025-2026 season on September 6 at Christ Church. The entire afternoon was poignant indeed. In his remarks before the concert began, and considering the attack on the arts that seems to be prevalent these days, Thomas Wolf, chair of the FCO Governing Board, made very salient commentary on the situation and expressed the importance of the art of philanthropic giving for the arts. His commentary was met with loud applause.
The concert then began with Mozart’s First Symphony; yes, his very first symphony, composed when he was only 8 years old! The symphony itself is wellknown enough among music lovers and, while not the last word in originality, it is nevertheless astonishing in its poise and deep craftsmanship. It is written in a very elegant style, which is aimed at charming and delighting an audience rather than, as the program notes suggest, dazzling them. Given the performance and the exceeding and customary high standard of playing by the orchestra, the work was raised to being something much more than fluff. It is clearly constructed and concise, and the orchestra responded to it with breathtaking beauty, almost as if giving a nod to the young composer to keep on.
The most awaited work on the program was the Concerto for Double Bass by Giovanni Battista Cimador. All one can say is, who knew? Cimador was born in Venice during the 1790s, could be considered somewhat of a contemporary of Mozart’s and is today known only as a footnote in history. Too bad, because if the concerto is an example of his work, posterity has indeed been missing out. The work itself sounds almost modern in style. Certainly, the virtuosity required must have helped redefine the bass instrument’s popularity. Everything that could be written has been to show off the considerable technique of the soloist. David Irvin more than met the stupefying challenges; he created music as well as showing off a formidable, at times astonishing, technique. His sense of legato was also a great pleasure to hear. If that were not enough, Principal Oboe Randall Ellis offered an ineffably beautiful and expressive solo in the second movement. Mr. Irvin was greeted, deservedly so, with a standing ovation. He offered an encore of Fauré’s “Après un rêve” in an original orchestration by Maciej Żółtowski and was awarded another storm of applause and flowers.
The final work on the program was Haydn’s Symphony No. 49. The title, “La Passione,” was not Haydn’s own, likely arriving via a copyist or a publisher. Once heard, the title fits perfectly.
Composed in 1768, the symphony is a prime example of Haydn’s newly found expressive freedom, including a rather darker side. The symphony can also be called the beginning of Haydn’s “Storm and Stress” period; less of polite smiles than of furrowed brows and clenched fists. The orchestra played, not surprisingly, as to the manner born. Haydn is not for everyone and can seem merely quaint in the wrong hands. Here, no such worries we at hand. The Haydn, as well as the entire concert, was the result of the tireless work of building Fenimore Chamber Orchestra into the expressive instrument it has become by Artistic Director Maciej Żółtowski.
The capacity audience greeted the afternoon with a prolonged ovation.
Karolina Hopper is a freelance contributor.
When was the last time you watched a Congressional hearing?
https://www.govinfo.gov/app/collection/chrg
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR … In THEIR OPInIOn
Wriley Nelson Got It Right
I completely agree with “The Partial Observer” article by Wriley Nelson in last week’s issue of “The Freeman’s Journal” and “Hometown Oneonta” regarding the killing of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip by the Israeli government [“Israel’s Grip on the U.S. is the End of International Law,” Thursday, October 2, 2025].
It has gone far beyond self-defense to mass murder to eliminate the Palestinian people, in my view.
I was five years old when Germany surrendered on May 8, 1945. We did not get a television until about 1949, and so I listened to the radio programs my parents had on and heard about the Nazi atrocities committed against the Jewish people and others on the news between other programs.
In the 1950s, I would take out books from our highschool library about the Holocaust that also contained many photos about the years of Germany’s campaigns of unchecked mass death and destruction, and the concen-
tration camps, as they invaded one country after another with the mass murder of millions of people on an industrial scale, all in the name of white supremacy, with their lunatic leader Adolf Hitler.
I struggled to try to understand how that could have happened. I carried the Holocaust, and the struggle to understand, around in my head for over 70 years. How could that happen? I know more about the Holocaust than I care to remember. I was sure that the Jewish people, if they survived, would be a model of how a deeply tortured people would rise above their almost total annihilation and set the example for civilized societies going forward. Unfortunately, and sadly, I was wrong.
Before 1948, the land that is now Israel was called Palestine, and the people who lived there were the Palestinian people. That same land also has historical connections to the Jewish people as well.
The ongoing mass murder of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, who have been basically prisoners of the Israelis since 1948, is for one primary reason only. It is a war to take
the remaining Palestinian occupied land. The far right lunatic government of Israel wants the Palestinian land for the Jewish people only, and they want the Palestinian people either gone or dead, with no possibility of a separate homeland for the Palestinian people within Israel.
Not all Israelis are against the Palestinian people, and some support a two-state solution. Unfortunately, ordinary Israelis, due to compulsory military service, are the people killing the Palestinian people with American guns, American tanks, American fighters/bombers, and American bombs.
The United States of America had, and has, the power to help the Palestinian people, but it will not do anything because Donald Trump, the president of the United States, also wants the Gaza Strip, to possibly develop as a resort on the Mediterranean Sea.
The current Trump “peace plan” will be the final betrayal of the Palestinian people. James R. Dean Cooperstown
Continued on page 11
Compiled by Tom
HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art museum Research Library
70 YEARs AGo
oneonta High school’s football team shattered Mohawk High’s 21-game unbeaten football record saturday, powering its way to a 26 to 6 victory over the Mohicans. The victory was accomplished on some fine passing by Bill Whittaker, great running by sam Lamonica and Joe Pidgeon as well as brilliant offensive and defensive play by a rugged line. As a result oneonta is in the top position in the Iroquois League standings. Bob Pondolfino, Jim Marble and Earle Hoffman were stars of the front line. Dick Chase was on the receiving end of many of Whitaker’s passes. He scored one touchdown and set up another. October 1955
50 YEARs AGo
“We were flat,” oHs football coach Doug Parsons said about his Yellowjackets after saturday’s football game against Binghamton North. North “flattened” the Jackets further winning by a 35-0 tally. The statistics were worse. North rolled up a passing-rushing total of 419 yards to the locals total of 115 and outfirst-downed oneonta by a 21-5 margin. oHs had the advantage only in penalties with 71 yards marked off to Binghamton’s 65 yards for infractions. steve Pushkar continued to stand out as a rusher, gaining 44 yards on eight carries. oneonta’s All-League linebacker Mike Lynch didn’t suit up having twisted his knee in practice. oneonta’s Jayvees fared better, pulling out a 29-28 victory as Wayne Hartley crossed the goal line four times, including a touchdown with 22 seconds remaining, followed by Parisian’s twopoint scamper for the tying and winning point.
October 1975
40 YEARs AGo
stephen J. Izzo, a former New York City police officer, was fined $1,000 and sentenced to five years probation in otsego County Court Monday for shooting an oneonta college student in the foot. Izzo was found guilty in september of first-degree reckless endangerment. County Judge Joseph Mogavero presided over the trial and the sentencing. District Attorney Paul Elkan was the prosecutor. Izzo was arrested in March and indicted in April after he and a friend, Richard Barbieri, became involved in a fight with Peter Burke, 23, inside Pizzaland Extension on Water street in oneonta. The fight was broken up but resumed outside. Witnesses said Izzo drew a gun and a New York City police badge and threatened to kill Burke. Both Izzo and Barbieri, also a New York City police officer, were fired from the police force. October 1985
30 YEARs AGo
Charles A. Belden, a respected oneonta educator and community servant for more than 65 years, died at the age of 83 on sunday. Mr. Belden was a 1934 graduate of Hartwick College. He was employed by the oneonta school District from 1934 through his retirement in 1973. In 1940, he earned a master’s degree in educational administration from Harvard. Mr. Belden taught English and Latin, served as principal of oneonta Junior High school, and for 27 years was principal of oneonta senior High school. The school’s auditorium was named for Mr. Belden in 1968. Mr. Belden was a dedicated and faithful member of oneonta’s First Baptist Church.
October 1995
20 YEARs AGo
The cider and doughnuts will be plentiful this weekend as Mary Gartung, a schenevus woman prepares to turn 90 on october 12. Visitors to Willy’s Farm and Cider Mill on Badeau Hill Road in schenevus will be offered free refreshments as the business celebrates the milestone birthday for Mary, whose children started the business on the family farm in 1994. The Gartung’s make apple cider and sell a variety of crops and locally made products. More than 150 family members are expected to participate.
October 2005
Solution: “Reality Game Shows” (October 1)
It’s a Good Time To Ask, ‘How Can I Help?’
As many of you know, we are in the midst of a government shutdown. Regardless of your political affiliation, the impact is felt far and wide, particularly by local nonprofits. Many of these organizations are heavily funded by federal and state sources to do the work that they do in order to deliver essential services throughout our community. While each will uniquely grapple with the impact of the government shutdown, there is one commonality; each one of them can use your help.
Each of us have causes that tug at our hearts, or principles we support, or organizations that have helped us in our time of need. Whether it is opportunities for otsego, veterans’ organizations, end-of-life care, your local school, family services, Greek life, animals, the arts, children’s organizations, your church or anything else that you are passionate about, I implore you to consider reaching out to these local organizations and asking how you can help continue their mission.
Many will lack operational funding to run their organizations or have access to their grant funds, have grant awards cut, or have those funds completely eliminated, which will no doubt impact the services they offer. That said, if you are in the financial position to do so and can make a monetary donation, they would be grateful. It will help offset the losses they are already experiencing and give them flexibility in this unprecedented time.
By MERL REAGLE
There are numerous other ways to assist, though. Volunteering is another great way to contribute to nonprofit organizations. Most organizations have had to downsize their teams over the years in order to manage their budgets as prices increased and funding was stagnant or cut. Yet, most of that work does not go away, it’s just absorbed by the staff members that remain. Many local nonprofits also cannot offer wages that are competitive with private organizations and have vacancies that are unfilled. Additionally, passionate individuals or those with professional expertise are always a great asset to organizations by serving as board members. Volunteering your time can be instrumental in assisting an organization as it works to stay afloat during this uncertainty.
Donating items can also be a great boost to an organization. Food insecurity is rampant throughout the county and local food banks can always use food donations to help our neighbors. oFo is always accepting blankets, snacks, clothing and school supplies, toiletries, etc., that are used to help assist clients in need. Many organizations have lists of items they are in need of on their websites, and most use social media, such as Facebook, to communicate with the community. Take some time to explore your favorite nonprofit organization’s website, and follow and like them on Facebook to get other specific ideas of what
Continued on page 13
Anagram Antics… The same, only different
NOTE: Each theme clue contains an anagram of its answer. For example, “It might be my car” would lead to CAMRY (which is “my car” rearranged).
ACROSS 1 A Lear daughter 6 Final accounting?
Friction fighter
Inflatable floatables 19 Don’s wife?
20 “First, ___ harm” 21 They can’t be beat 22 Historian Samuel ___ Morison
23 They may come to a camper’s aid 25 Car with a clean motor, perhaps 27 It pumps up the vol.
28 Talkative Russian city?
29 In no time
Literacy prog.
Election finish?
Genesis grandson
New Hampshire politico 36 Dirty digs
38 It describes a copper, mister 42 Silents star Talmadge
Football forerunner
“Major” sky attraction 46 Here’s a hint: “rabbi” 50 Nose tickler 51 Wine region
Brittany Coast city
FCAHS Lectures, Meeting Set
FLY CREEK—The Fly Creek Area Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting at 208 Cemetery Road on Wednesday, October 22. Oneonta City Historian Mark Simonson will give a presentation on the history of SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served at 7:30 p.m., followed by the business meeting.
Dr. Chris Kjolhede will present a talk titled “What Graveyards Tell Us about Life and Death” at the November meeting, 6:30 p.m. on November 19 at 853 County Highway 26. The next quarterly meeting of the FCAHS Board of Trustees will take place at the town building at 3 p.m. on January 7. The society also seeks new members for its Archives and Research committees. Visit flycreekareahistoricalsociety.org for more information.
Shock-toberfest Is Saturday
ONEONTA—Film Otsego and Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center will present the 4th annual Shock-toberfest at 24 Market Street from 3-10 p.m. on Saturday, October 11. The double headliner will be locally-made “Popeye the Slayer Man” at 6 p.m. and Metallica cover band “Obey Your Master” at 8 p.m. A block of six short horror films will be screened at 3 p.m., followed by “Hellbender,” a film made by Roscoe’s Poser-Adams family, at 4 p.m. There will be a horror festival in the Foothills atrium and parking lot, featuring axe throwing, food trucks, tarot, vendors, and more. Tickets are available at tinyurl.com/Shocktoberfest25. For more information, follow @filmotsego and @foothills on Facebook and Instagram.
CCE Event Schedule Released
COBLESKILL—Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties will hold its annual meeting at SUNY Cobleskill’s Upper Champlin Hall, 108 Otsego Avenue, from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21. In addition to education efforts and the annual business meeting, this free and open event will feature hors d’oeuvres and door prizes. Business matters include constitutional revisions and the election of officers. The business meeting will also allow virtual attendance. For more information or to RSVP, contact neh57@cornell.edu. There will be a cover crop field meeting at 48 Sayward Lane in Willsboro from 3-5:30 p.m. on October 21, with a rain date the next day. To register, contact eh528@ cornell.edu. NY Farmnet will run an estate plan-
Congress
Continued from page 1
Hochul energy plan that bans gas stoves.” When it made sense, he added, he “worked across the aisle” to draft legislation to ban “dangerous food additives like red dye #40.”
Assemblyman Brian Miller, Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin Jr., and Otsego County Board Chair Edwin Frazier Jr. were in attendance at the campaign launch. Oberacker also attended two other launch events later in the day, one in Delhi and another in Monticello. Oberacker’s campaign said he will be attending more events throughout the week.
Oberacker’s speech contrasted his relationship to the area with Rep. Riley’s, accusing Riley of being inauthentic and “a rubber stamp for the extreme left.” He said he was running to bring “common sense, or as I like to call it, country sense” to Congress, criticizing Rep. Riley’s votes against removing tax on tips, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” positions on immigration, and more.
“Here’s something Mr. Riley and his extreme little D.C. cronies don’t understand,” Oberacker said. “Wearing flannel does not make you a farmer. And putting on a Carhartt can’t hide who you really are.”
On his Instagram and X accounts at press time, and in his campaign launch ad, Oberacker described himself as being “born and raised” upstate. A campaign news release said he was a “lifelong” resident. But
ning webinar for farm families with young children on Zoom from 1-2 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5, with registration available at 1-800-547-3276. Free Smart Energy Choices Weatherization workshops will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14 at 113 Park Place in Schoharie, at 11 a.m. in the Southside Mall Community Room on Saturday, November 22 and at The Gathering Place, 5506 State Highway 7 in Oneonta, at noon on Monday, December 15. For more information or a complete list of events, visit cceschoharie-otsego.org.
Cudmores Featured at Expo
ONEONTA—Author Expo 2025 will be held at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center from 24 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. Admission is free and a cash bar will be available. Attendees can meet up to 20 local authors, purchase signed books and meet local publishing leaders. Among the featured authors are father and daughter Dana and Libby Cudmore, known respectively for their historical work on Schoharie County caves and limestone quarries and for mystery novels.
Library Seeks Public Comment
ONEONTA—Huntington Memorial Library is creating its 2026-2030 long-range plan and seeks community input on priorities through an online survey. The survey is available at hmloneonta.org through Friday, October 31. Anonymized public comments will be used to enhance the library’s collection, improve services and plan for the future.
SUNY To Screen Documentary
ONEONTA—SUNY Oneonta’s Red Dragon Reading Series will host a screening of the documentary film “Calico Rebellion: The Anti-Rent War and the Second American Revolution” in HIRC Lecture Hall 4 at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14. Director Victoria Kupchinesky will present a talk after the screening, followed by a reception. Produced by local author Peter Hutchinson, the film examines a largely forgotten 1840s farmers’ revolt in Upstate New York that paved the way for the formation of Lincoln’s Republican Party. The screening is free and open to the public.
Tree Planting To Honor Phillips
COOPERSTOWN—The Village of Cooperstown will honor the memory of longtime resident Henry “Hank” Phillips with a tree planting, plaque dedica-
tion and mayoral proclamation at 92 Main Street at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15. Alongside a college friend, Ed Bagley, Phillips purchased Withey’s Drug Store at 92 Main Street and operated it until 1992. Over the course of half a century, Phillips became an integral member of the community, helping the Cooperstown Lions Club to organize the first Winter Carnival. He passed away on August 31, 2024.
Kirk Memorial Scheduled
ONEONTA—HillCity Church will host a remembrance ceremony and celebration of life for the assassinated political activist Charlie Kirk at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14. The free event will be held at 1796 County Highway 48 in Oneonta. For more information or to RSVP, contact organizer Tim Wormuth at bullpencatcher@hotmail.com.
Brandow’s To Hold Party
ONEONTA—Brandow’s Feed and Seed, 4119 State Route 7 in Oneonta, will host a Halloween Doggie Party from 3-6 p.m. on Friday, October 31. The headline event is a dog costume photo contest decided by popular vote on Brandow’s Facebook page. The winner will be announced on Monday, November 3 and receive a giant pumpkin full of prizes. The party will also feature refreshments, raffle baskets, trick or treating and store discounts. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes.
Sloan’s Buck Contest Returns
ONEONTA—Sloan’s New York Grill will accept submissions for its annual Best Buck Contest through Sunday, December 7. Sloan’s wildlife staff will judge entries based on the best photo rather than animal size. Only bucks taken in Otsego, Delaware, Schoharie or Chenango counties will be considered. Entries should include name, phone number and the location where the buck was shot. They may be submitted to Chris@SloansNYGrill.com or via Sloan’s Facebook or Instagram pages. The top three entries will receive prizes of $100.00, $50.00 and $25.00 grill gift certificates. Winners will be announced on social media on Wednesday, December 10.
WKC To Present Sequel
STAMFORD—The West Kortright Center and Arm-of-the-Sea Theater will present “City that Drinks the Mountain Sky: Part Two!” at Veterans Park in Stamford at 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. The performance is free and open to the public.
AllOtsego’s reporting on his first State Senate campaign in 2020 shows Oberacker was born in Merrick, on Long Island. Also, in his opening statement at a recorded 2020 candidate debate at Cayuga Community College, Oberacker said his father “was a sausage maker who moved to Upstate New York when we were about six-years-old.”
The campaign did not respond to AllOtsego’s e-mailed requests for comment, but did tell Politico that Oberacker has been in the area since at least kindergarten. In comments to Politico, campaign consultant Vince Casale said there is “no discrepancy” and that “Peter has spent his life committed to his home town and upstate NY.” Casale said “We’d be happy to compare roots with Mr. Riley anytime.”
“Soil is our common ground,” Oberacker said in his speech, a phrase also appearing in his campaign launch ad. “Together, rooted in that same soil, we can build a stronger New York, and a stronger America,” he closed.
After Oberacker greeted supporters and took photos, AllOtsego asked if he could answer press questions and for his reaction to the ongoing government shutdown. Oberacker walked away quietly as Lynn Krogh, a campaign consultant, told AllOtsego he would not be taking questions.
Shortly after Oberacker’s announcement, Democrats launched critiques. Rep. Riley’s campaign
team posted a website, AlbanyOberacker. com, accusing the state senator of being an “Albany insider” who is “NYSEG’s senator, not ours.” It cites recent campaign donations from the utility company and Oberacker’s vote against legislation that would prevent utilities from imposing late fees or cutting service during a Public Service Commission investigation into a utility.
The national attention arrived, too. Calling the state senator “shady” and “a corporate sellout,” the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the campaign arm of Democratic members of the House of Representatives, issued a statement saying that Oberacker “has repeatedly chosen corporate lobbyists, polluters, and utility companies over” constituents. “From cashing checks from utility lobbyists to siding with Big Ag and polluters that hurt family farms and poisoned local water, Oberacker has made it clear who he works for— and it’s not hardworking Upstate families.”
Recently, Oberacker announced his intention to introduce a “Ratepayer Bill of Rights” in Albany. According to a press release from his office, if passed the legislation would create a “permanent ban on political contributions from regulated utility companies to elected officials or oversight committees” and a “Utility Consumer Advocate Office to stand up for customer interests,” among other provisions.
Monday evening, Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican representing the Hudson Valley, posted on X that Oberacker will “make a phenomenal Congressman” and that he is “Proud to support my friend.”
Memorial
Continued from page 1
he studied Sanskrit, Hindi and Tibetan.
After teaching at Antioch University’s Buddhist Studies in India Program and the University of Michigan and Denison College, Huntington settled at Hartwick College for the remainder of his teaching career. He wrote three books—“The Emptiness of Emptiness,” “Maya” and “What I Don’t Know about Death: Reflections on Buddhism and Mortality.” He and Elizabeth raised two children, Sam and Katie Huntington, in Oneonta. On July 19, 2020, Huntington peacefully passed after a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Joe Ficano, philanthropy and engagement officer at Hartwick College, began the memorial service with formal remarks on Huntington and the dedication of the Strawbale House. His introduction was followed by comments from Laurel Bongiorno, Hartwick’s vice president for academic affairs and provost.
Ficano invited Elizabeth Huntington to speak about her husband and their life together. She shared her late husband’s experiences and praised his dedica-
tion to the students of Hartwick College.
Three of Huntington’s former students were invited to the event, to share stories of their relationships with him and the lasting impact he had on them.
Justin Dimmel, a 2002 Hartwick graduate, spoke first. Dimmel took Huntington’s “Architecture of the Sacred” course and assisted in building the Strawbale House. He explained that the Strawbale and Cobb houses “represent Sandy’s vision of what liberal arts education should look like.”
Each of Huntington’s classes at the college’s Pine Lake campus began with meditation, which he believed brought them closer together.
During his time studying under Huntington, Dimmel was experiencing feelings of grief due to the recent passing of his father. He said Huntington provided a safe haven for him, and made sure that the course was accessible to students who wouldn’t normally have the means to participate.
Sarah Buckley, Class of 2001, took the stage next. Buckley recalled her experiences in Huntington’s classes, and even quipped that after taking one class with him, she decided to major in “Sandy.” Although Buckley ended up becoming a nurse, she shared how the values and traditions she learned from Huntington have helped her care for her patients and have defined innumerable aspects of her life.
Dan Morris, a 1997 Hartwick graduate, spoke
about his time working with Huntington and how it led him to work at Pine Lake for several years. Following the alumni speeches, Wyatt Ambrose, Huntington’s son-in-law and an adjunct professor in music at Hartwick College, played “Ruby My Dear” by Thelonious Monk in honor of his father-in-law.
Nearing the end of the ceremony, Elizabeth Huntington, Bongiorno and Ficano gathered to unveil the bronze dedication plaque, which reads:
“This building is dedicated in memory of Hartwick Professor C.W. (Sandy) Huntington, Jr., who led students and community members in its creation as an enduring expression of the beauty, power, and sacred nature of collaboratively designed and sustainably built spaces. Dedicated on September 20, 2025.”
As the prepared events wrapped up, Ficano invited colleagues, friends and family of Huntington to share stories with the crowd. While this was taking place, Hartwick faculty prepared chai tea for those gathered to enjoy in Huntington’s memory. A table of handmade terracotta cups created by one of the guests was provided, and attendees were encouraged to follow the Tibetan tradition of drinking their chai and then returning the terracotta to the earth. When the memorial concluded, guests were encouraged to explore the Strawbale House while enjoying snacks and refreshments.
Arc Otsego Honored as 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award Winner
ONEONTA
he Arc Otsego was recently named one of Casella Waste Systems’ 2025 Sustainability
Leadership Award recipients, celebrating The Arc’s longstanding partnership with Casella and its innovative recycling and reuse efforts that
benefit both the local community and the environment, officials said.
According to a press release, for more than 25 years The Arc Otsego has
collaborated with Casella to implement environmentally responsible practices across all its service locations. “From everyday recycling operations to the Otsego ReUse Center, where building materials and household goods are repurposed, The Arc Otsego demonstrates a commitment to sustainable solutions that serve those with developmental disabilities and the broader Otsego County community,” the release reads.
Adam Stoutenburg, Casella territory sales representative, nominated The Arc Otsego based on its expansion of recycling efforts since the opening of the Otsego ReUse Center in 2018. Stoutenburg said when he joined Casella, he saw what the agency was doing with recycling in the community and made sure that Casella was a strong partner in making it grow.
The Arc Otsego has also led the charge locally in programs for hard-to-
recycle materials, such as polystyrene, fluorescent bulbs, and plastic film.
Residents and businesses can bring these items to the Otsego ReUse Center at 23 Duane Street in Oneonta for recycling.
“Because we believe in sustainable communities, The Arc Otsego has long embraced recycling as more than an initiative. It’s part of who we are,” said Faith Tiemann, chief marketing officer at The Arc Otsego.
“We’re honored to be recognized alongside likeminded organizations, and even more appreciative of our ongoing partnership with Casella,” Tiemann continued. “All of our recycling efforts provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities in and around Otsego County.”
The 2025 Sustainability Leadership Awards, presented annually by Casella Waste Systems, honor organizations demonstrating bold innovation and leadership in waste reduction, recycling, and
circular economy principles. The Arc Otsego joins Primo Brands, Dartmouth College, and the University of Vermont Medical Center in this year’s distinguished cohort, officials announced.
Bill Hardy, ReUse Center manager, said the most impactful part is that “you go into work every day, and you know you’re doing something good for the community.”
“We are proud to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these organizations with our annual sustainability awards,” said John W. Casella, chairman and chief executive officer of Casella. “This year’s recipients exemplify bold innovation and forward-thinking leadership. It’s a privilege to work alongside them on a journey to achieving our sustainability goals.”
Building on this milestone, The Arc Otsego will continue to expand its sustainability programs,” officials said.
CANDIDATES: IN THEIR WORDS
AllOtsego’s 2025 pre-election coverage begins this week with a series of questions posed to Town of Hartwick supervisor candidates Cody E. Moore (REP, HUN) and Andrea Vazquez (CON). There was no word limit given. These are the candidates’ responses as they were received.
1. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
MOORE:
First and foremost, we must restore trust in our town government. By working together, we will protect the taxpayers and foster a more respectful, productive environment on the Town Board. Hartwick needs a leader who can bring people together, focus on solutions and move our town forward.
VAZQUEZ: My priorities are forward focused. Reliable town services that foster a safe and healthy community.
2. What are the top three challenges currently being faced by the Town of Hartwick, and how will you address these?
MOORE:
• Fiscal responsibility: Rising costs impact every member of our community. We must carefully review spending, seek out efficiencies and hold the line on taxes, while still delivering essential services. One of the first things I would postpone would be the confidential secretary line. I am committed to this position and have the time to commit to the position. No need to pay someone to help me do my job.
• Town Board division: Dysfunction has hurt progress. I will set a professional tone, encourage respectful debate, and make sure meetings are run fairly and efficiently. Town residents must be listened to and heard, not bullied and harassed. • Infrastructure and services: From roads to
water systems, we must maintain and improve our infrastructure in an efficient and sustainable way. I will prioritize long-term planning and actively pursue grants to reduce the burden on local taxpayers.
VAZQUEZ: We face three major challenges: aging infrastructure, financial strain and a need for forward momentum. I am focused on smart planning, securing outside funding and making decisions based on what strengthens the town long-term. We can’t afford to stand still—it’s time to move Hartwick forward.
3. The Town of Hartwick Board has frequently reached impasses over the last year and some board meetings have gotten
out of hand, requiring the presence of local law enforcement. What do you see as your role as supervisor, if elected, in addressing this?
MOORE:
The supervisor must set the tone. Period. I will run meetings professionally, keep discussions focused on the issues, and ensure that every board member has a chance to be heard respectfully. By encouraging civil dialogue and enforcing order when necessary, I will work to restore dignity and productivity to our meetings. Sadly, my opponent is part of the current board that creates this turmoil. I have the leadership skills necessary to bring everyone together.
VAZQUEZ: Did not answer.
Hubbell’s Real Estate
4. Recently, the Town of Hartwick experienced a boil water order and town officials are currently working on improvements to the building that houses the town’s well. What will you do to make sure local drinking water is safe?
MOORE:
Safe drinking water is an essential service we must provide. I will work closely with state and county health officials, engineers, and our water operators to ensure that our systems meet all safety standards. I will also push for proactive maintenance and upgrades so we’re not solely reacting to problems, but preventing them.
VAZQUEZ: We’re fortunate to now have two professional, capable water operators
who are doing an excellent job managing our system. I’ll continue supporting their work, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to keep things running efficiently and safely.
5. If elected, what steps would you take to put the Town of Hartwick on a firmer financial footing?
MOORE: I will implement stronger budgeting practices, carefully track spending and provide clear financial reports to the taxpayers. I will also look for shared services with neighboring towns to cut costs and aggressively pursue state and federal grant opportunities to reduce the burden on local property taxpayers. I will be sure
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Super
Continued from page 8
to make sure grants, FEMA and CHIPs programs are turned in timely to not skew the budgets.
VAZQUEZ: We shall focus on careful day-to-day management—monitoring spending, planning ahead for known expenses and looking for efficiencies wherever possible. Every decision should reflect common sense and respect for taxpayers’ money.
6. Local municipalities often rely on funding from the state to meet their needs. What are your priorities in securing funds from the state, and how will you approach that process?
MOORE:
My priority will be securing funding for
CANDIDATES: IN THEIR WORDS
infrastructure improvements, first responders and long-term planning that benefits residents. I will build strong relationships with our state representatives and agencies and I will make sure Hartwick’s voice is heard in Albany so we get our fair share of resources.
VAZQUEZ:
Over the past few months, I’ve gained significant experience working with the state on grant reimbursements, which has strengthened my knowledge of the process. I’ve also secured numerous smaller grants over the years to help offset taxpayer costs. Recently, I hosted a well-attended grant writing workshop at Hartwick Town Hall through the New York State Association of Towns, where I learned new strategies and connected with key contacts who can assist the town. I’ve already
taken steps to ensure Hartwick is eligible for critical funding—and I plan to continue building on that momentum.
7. The national political climate has grown intense, including multiple assassinations and assassination attempts over the last year. What do you believe are local answers for maintaining peaceful political engagement?
MOORE:
At the local level, we need to lead by example. That means listening to one another, debating respectfully, and remembering that we’re all neighbors first. I believe community forums, open communication and fair leadership can help keep political engagement peaceful and productive here in Hartwick.
VAZQUEZ: Did not answer.
8. President Trump has made mass deportations one of his top priorities, often in partnership with local municipalities through arrests, detention, sharing data about immigrants, and more. Should Otsego County/the Town of Hartwick collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement? If so, how?
MOORE: My focus as Hartwick town supervisor will be on the issues directly impacting our residents — taxes, infrastructure, services and lowering the burden on all of us. While we will follow the law, immigration enforcement is a federal matter and I believe our town government should not be diverted from its core responsibilities to taxpayers.
VAZQUEZ: Did not answer.
9. Housing costs continue to be a challenge for many New Yorkers and Otsego County residents. What policies and programs do you support to keep the cost of housing affordable for your constituents?
ny 607-441-7312
MOORE: We must make sure families, seniors and young people can afford to live here. I support policies that encourage responsible development, promote home ownership opportunities, and provide access to state and federal housing programs. I also believe we should work with the county and nonprofits to expand affordable housing options, without overburdening local taxpayers.
VAZQUEZ: I am in the final stages of securing the ProHousing Certification through New York State for the town which fosters affordable housing in addition to expanding eligibility for grant funding.
Wright Launches Matching Challenge
ONEONTA
The Future for Oneonta Foundation announced a major community challenge gift last month from longtime Oneonta supporter Brian Wright, who has pledged to match donations—dollar for dollar, up to $125,000.00—to help complete the much-anticipated Wilber Park Splash Pad Project.
According to a press release, this initiative is designed to inspire broad community support to raise the remaining funds needed to bring the Splash Pad to life by December 31, 2025, with construction planned for spring 2026. Once complete, the Splash Pad will provide a safe, family-friendly recreation area and a new attraction for residents and visitors alike, officials said.
The campaign has already received a tremendous boost: Alan Cleinman, a longtime community leader and philanthropist, has pledged $25,000.00 toward the project as part of this matching challenge. His gift, combined with Wright’s match, demonstrates the strong commitment of local leaders to ensuring this project becomes a reality.
“This is about more than building a Splash Pad,” said Wright. “It’s about investing in Oneonta’s families, children and quality of life. By matching community donations, I hope to encourage everyone to give what they can. Every dollar donated will go twice as far.”
“Together with our benefactor, Brian Wright, the Future for Oneonta Foundation is dedicated to completing this project and looks to leverage these funds to draw additional donations from community members, businesses, and organizations, as well as strengthen any additional grants available from public funds,” FOF officials said.
Donations can be made directly to the Future for Oneonta Foundation by visiting https://futureforoneonta.org/.
Nicholas ‘Nicky’ ‘Big Nick’ ‘Coach’ Lambros 1937-2025
ONEONTA—We honor the life of a true legend, Nick Lambros, whose roles spanned athlete, coach, friend, husband, father, brother, uncle and, most cherished of all, devoted “Papou” (Greek for grandfather).
Nick understood that relationships were the true victory, and he used the platform of athletics to connect with everyone he met. His profound legacy is etched not just in his achievements, but in the deep, lasting bonds he forged.
Nobody could tell a story better than Nick. And while we honor his life today, it’s impossible to tell Nick’s story without him—without the powerful voice and distinct memories only he possessed.
Born in Oneonta to Harry G. and Mary N. Lambros (Zaharis), who emigrated from the villages outside of Sparta, Greece, Nick’s story began on Main Street. His father opened Diana Restaurant there in 1921. “I grew up on Main Street. As they say, the entire village brought me up,” Nick often recalled. “There is no place where I would have rather grown up.”
In the 1940s and 50s, Nick’s athletic education was forged in city parks, not formal leagues.
Celebration of Life: Dottie Gebbia 1937-2025
COOPERSTOWN—Everyone knew if Dottie’s not late, Dottie’s not comin’. Her celebration is late! Ed Leslie and I welcome friends and family to share the memories. In lieu of donuts, spend a moment. Think of who you may think less of as they are old or sick. Think more of the less of.
Oh! That’s her Aunt Junie in the photo. They’re together again!
Oh yeah, if you’re wondering: Who I am? It’s probably a question Dottie never asked. She always knew who she was. Join us. Cider and donuts from where else? Friday, October 17 from 4-6 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Cooperstown.
OBITUARIES
Beyond the city-sponsored Kiwanis League, his youth was dominated by pick-up games— baseball, basketball, tennis, swimming, and stickball. As he put it, “No umpires, no parents, just kids playing by their own rules.”
At 10 years old, basketball became his obsession, learned by watching teams from Oneonta High School, Hartwick College, and Oneonta State. He and his friends became dedicated to the game, no matter the obstacles. “We would sneak into local church gyms, junior high school gyms, and college gyms. We shoveled snow off the city courts, driveways where our friends had hoops; we played a lot, practiced on our own, and got better,” Nick said in his Capital District Basketball Hall of Fame induction essay. It was in junior high, playing with clocks and referees, that Nick got truly hooked. He’d even go to Hartwick College to ask coaches for tips. These courts and fields were the places where friendships formed, shaping his character and sowing the seeds of lifelong mentorship. Excelling in everything from baseball to golf, he was inspired by local legends such as Bud Pirone, Tom Greene, Tony Drago, Mr. Belden, Bud Getchell, and Sam Nader. Nick attended Bugbee Elementary and graduated from Oneonta High School. After four years playing for OHS, he earned a basketball scholarship to Hartwick College, graduating in 1961. At Hartwick, his versatility shone as a four-year starter in both basketball and baseball. His talent even earned him a tryout with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1961. “It was such a great opportunity for me,” Nick recalled of his shot at pro-ball. “I was a free-agent with no contract, but just the fact that I was there with
over 350 players from all over the country, ready to compete for a place on a Dodger minor league team, I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
Realizing his playing career had run its course, he focused on the future. “Now it was time to figure out the rest of my life. I decided on teaching and coaching.”
In 1964, Oneonta High School became his new home. The opportunity came when local legend Tony Drago approached him. “I had never coached a minute, but with his guidance, he hired me as a JV coach in 1965,” Nick said. “It was the best move of my life. Basketball consumed me for the next 34 years.”
After three successful seasons as the JV coach, he was appointed Varsity coach in 1968, where his success continued. In his final year, the 1970–71 team clinched the Class B State Championship.
Just as he was reaching the pinnacle of high-school coaching, Nick was approached by Hartwick College Head Coach Roy Chipman with an offer to be his first assistant and the head baseball coach. “I loved high school coaching, however, jumping up to the college level while staying in my hometown was an easy decision to make.” He spent six years as Coach Chipman’s assistant, a successful run during which the team posted a combined 137-40 record and made five NCAA Division II playoff runs.
In 1967, Nick also took on a role as the general manager of the Oneonta Yankees—the Class A farm team of the New York Yankees. The hiring itself is a classic Oneonta story: Nick was running an errand for his family’s restaurant, Diana’s. He recalls: “I bump into Sam Nader, who is chatting with [minor league owner] Joe Buzas. Buzas turns to Nader and asks,
‘Who the heck is this guy? He looks like an athlete. He could be your general manager.’”
Nick’s response to the offer captured his spirit: “What the hell are you talking about being the GM? I don’t know anything about that but OK, I’ll try. Then, I loved it.”
His dedication was immediate, with duties including selling ads, managing the concession stand and even pitching batting practice every night. The job was a wild introduction to professional baseball, as he quickly learned: “My first week, three boxes arrived from Yankee Stadium and they are the New York Yankees’ hand-me-down uniforms. Open them up—No. 7, Mickey Mantle!”
When he stepped down in 1977, the game never left him. He reflected in his New York State Baseball Hall of Fame essay: “Baseball, what a game.” Attending home games remained special, as it always sparked a personal reflection: “It made me reflect on my desire to play professionally, and I still felt I was good enough.”
Classic Nick Lambros Golf Tournament.
Even with his coaching success, Nick remained a multifaceted athlete throughout his life. Beyond the court and the diamond, he captured three consecutive City Tennis Championships and won an Oneonta Country Club golf title, where he also held the distinction of being the club’s longeststanding member.
Nick’s Greek heritage was a source of deep, lifelong pride. He cared profoundly for his Greek roots and maintained close ties with friends and coaches in Greece. He helped bring young Greek players to Hartwick and Syracuse basketball camps, strengthening bonds between Greece and the American basketball community.
Grandma loved her farm, her family, and playing her old guitar.
Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home will take the time to find out what made your loved one special. Whether it’s finding just the right flowers, or finding a musician to play her favorite tunes on her old guitar, we’ll do what’s necessary to make her service as unique as she was.
Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home 14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com
Dignity, Respect, Tradition
Dignified and Caring Service since 1925 Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings. Peter A. Deysenroth 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown | 607-547-8231 www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com
Nick Lambros forged a dynasty at Hartwick College, serving as head coach from 1977 to 1998. With an impressive 353191 record, he retired as the program’s all-time winningest coach. His leadership propelled Hartwick to national prominence, featuring seven NCAATournament appearances, highlighted by a memorable trip to the NCAA Final Four in 1988. His excellence was recognized across the nation, earning him NCAA Division II Coach of the Year in 1979 and NCAA Division III Coach of the Year in 1988. Over his tenure, his teams tallied seven 20-win seasons and numerous ECAC Tournament appearances. Beyond basketball, his unwavering commitment to the college extended to coaching both baseball and golf.
Nick’s profound impact and extraordinary dedication earned him a host of lasting honors. He was the first inductee into the Hartwick Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995 and was later inducted into the New York State Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004. The college recognized his loyalty with the President’s Medal for Extraordinary and Exemplary Loyalty, and in 2009, the gymnasium was named Lambros Arena in his honor. His spirit is further remembered through the annual
155 Main Street Worcester, nY 607-397-9711 www.hellerskinnerfh.com leW i S, HurleY & pietrobono Funeral
51 Dietz Street oneonta, nY 607-432-1511 www.lhpfuneralhome.com
Nick is lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Sharon Lambros; his daughters, Maria Wanes and Jacey Lambros Carrino; sonsin-law Robert Wanes and Anthony Carrino; and his beloved grandchildren, Jaelyn Wanes, Nicholas Wanes, and Leni Carrino. He was predeceased by his siblings, George Lambros, Helen Stam and Angie Bertuzzi.
Affectionately known as “Uncle Nicky,” his pride in staying connected reached across many families—the Lambros, Stam, Steege, Curran, Bertuzzi, Foti, Pavlostathis, and Poling clans—including countless nieces, nephews, and their children. Truly, his family extended far beyond blood, “Coach” encompassing countless former players, friends, and community members across America and beyond.
Nick passed away from complications of pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy that transcends sports. As Bob Spadaccia said at his Lambros Arena dedication ceremony, “Nick was truly a child of Oneonta and a son of Hartwick.” He was more than a coach or athlete— he was a mentor, a Spartan, and above all, a man who lived life fully and inspired others to do the same.
We invite all who knew him to celebrate Nick’s life at the very place he helped shape, in the arena which stands as a lasting tribute to his values: Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 1 p.m., Lambros Arena in the Binder Physical Education Center, Hartwick College Campus. Shuttles will be available from the college parking lots.
For those wishing to attend remotely, the service will be livestreamed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to support Hartwick College, continuing Nick’s passion for fostering future generations. All information—including the livestream access and how to donate—is available at: hartwick.edu/ nick-lambros-celebrationof-life/.
Expressions of sympathy may also be made at www.lhpfuneralhome. com; Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Family Funeral Home, 51 Dietz Street, Oneonta.
Funeral Home
Photo provided
Photo provided Nicholas lambros
Erna Morgan McReynolds
1952-2025
FRANKLIN—In
sadness, the family of Erna Morgan McReynolds announce that she passed away in her sleep early Monday, September 29 in London. Erna was an exceptional woman—bold, brilliant, warm, generous—whose achievements are too many to list.
Erna was born in 1952 to Caroline and William McReynolds. She grew up in Gilbertsville. Her family often suffered extreme financial difficulties, ill health and oldfashioned poverty. These challenges required her to take on great responsibilities as a youngster. Such became a habit for the rest of her life.
She graduated from Gilbertsville Central School. She was an exceptional student, read every book in sight. And was granted special license by the Gilbertsville public librarian to take out any number of books at the same time, whenever she wanted.
She attended two years of college. However, her higher education was cut short by an illness and lack of funds.
At 20, she dared to emigrate to New Zealand. There, she learned journalism, both print and radio/television. After a few years
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Wriley Nelson Got It Wrong
Just when you thought it was safe, “Hometown Oneonta” has once again inexplicably chosen to sully its pages with the loathsome rants of its antisemite in residence, Wriley Nelson.
I’d actually prefer to ignore his cretinous screed, but truth is, such vituperative hatred must be slapped back whenever it rears its ugly head.
I will again direct my response to Mr. Nelson personally, because
Photo provided ERNA MORGAN MCREYNOLDS
she relocated to London. There, she worked at times for the BBC as a freelance reporter. She then became a senior news producer for London Broadcasting. The LBC audience was touted as the largest in all of Europe. She was lured back to the U.S. to marry Tom Morgan. She became a senior producer for NBC News. At Rockefeller Center she worked with Tom Brokaw, Connie Chung, Jessica Savage, John Palmer and various luminaries of the news world. The famous Willard Scott (NBC’s Willard the Weatherman on “The Today Show”) worked with her every day on a brief radio piece. He presented her each morning with the carnation he had worn in that day’s “Today Show.”
After a few years, Erna came to Oneonta to join with Tom in the investment business at E.F. Hutton—now Morgan
Wriley, yes, I know that you’re reading this. So imagine I have just taken an antiemetic, and am looking directly into your warped, hateful eyes.
I call you an antisemite, Wriley, because despite your dissembling attempt to credit Judaism as a “2,500-year-old world faith,” it is plain that you hold loathing and animosity toward the Jewish people, abhor their established right to be a free people in their own land, and wish for them to remain a landless, vulnerable people dependent for their existence on the whims of bigots like you.
I call you an anti-
OBITUARIES
Stanley. This became known as the Morgan McReynolds Group and was the predecessor of today’s TableRock Group.
In her work, Erna often tread where women dared not. In her youth in the early 1970s, single women simply did not emigrate to far-off countries. They did not visit such places as India on their own. Rarely did women work in serious journalism. (Her daily newspaper in New Zealand employed two women.) Exceptionally rare were women who worked as investment advisors. More than tread, she strode purposefully and enjoyed notable success wherever she worked.
After her husband Tom’s health forced his retirement, she took over sole management of the investment group. Training and inspiring a team of mostly women, she led them to become one of the largest investment groups in the country. They served more than 4,000 clients in 23 states and several countries. She tread where no one had when she extended the investment service to some Caribbean countries, managing their precious Social Security Fund assets. “Barron’s” magazine featured her several times, once on its cover. And the United Nations invited her to speak at
semite, Wriley, because your scurrilous charge that “every single member of the United States Congress has a designated handler from AIPAC” is just another version of the vile Jewish conspiracy theories that will never go away. I call you an antisemite, Wriley, because that is exactly what you are.
Robert Garfield Oneonta
No Cursive?
What’s Up?
Recently I came across a paper I wrote 60 years ago, in 1965, when I was a freshman at Cooperstown Central
one of its conferences, about the advancement of women.
Erna believed that those blessed with success have opportunities to share those blessings with others. She seized those opportunities with such organizations as the Executive Service Corps, Girl Scouts, and innumerable charities and causes. She dove into her trustee work on the boards of the Catskill Symphony Orchestra, Glimmerglass Opera/Festival, Hartwick College, Fenimore Art Museum and more. She was particularly interested in supporting activities that widened the cultural horizons for kids in small rural schools.
It is fair to say the Catskill Symphony Orchestra owes its survival to Erna. Many years ago, the orchestra was in the worst of financial conditions and had cancelled its season. It was virtually bankrupt. When Erna heard this, she turned to her husband, Tom. “Symphonies are sacred. We cannot let a symphony go under.”
She helped to recruit a new board of devoted and determined trustees to set about funding and rescuing the orchestra and establishing an endowment for it. One of the delights of her life was the night she became its guest conductor in its fundraising Cabaret concert.
School. The English teacher required every ninth-grader to write an autobiography. I thought to myself, this is going to be great. I’ll share it with my kids and grandkids so they can see what I was thinking about then.
Both my kids could read it, but when I asked my grandkids their thoughts about it, they said they couldn’t read it. It is in cursive. I was stunned!
I have been out of the educational loop for a long time. In one generation, the ability to read cursive has disappeared. My English teacher’s assignment wasn’t really
Erna loved to organize and host social events in her home. For years she and Tom welcomed hundreds of guests at after-concert parties for her beloved Catskill Symphony. They also invited hundreds to annual July 4 community picnics and fireworks. They staged annual community Christmas parties and early Thanksgiving events. They brought cabaret entertainers from New York City to perform for the public.
Erna’s generosity will live on for future generations. She and her husband have created the Morgan McReynolds charitable foundation. It is designed to provide enduring support for various causes. She dreamed the foundation will become a major charitable fund for the region. She has made provision for future Helios/Hospice Daffodil Fests at her and Tom’s home in Franklin. And her wishes are for more and more Hometown Christmas/Catskill Brass concerts in Franklin.
Erna was devoted to her family. She worked diligently to bring them together from around the world. She leaves behind seven grandchildren and two sisters: Betty in Phoenix and Maxine in South Carolina. Also six children: Pamela Morgan in New Zealand; Kathleen Morgan in
about the content, it was about seeing how capable we were at penmanship, creating sentences and paragraphs, capitalization, spelling, and punctuation.
I learned how to write cursive in elementary school and took typing in high school. I know every child uses a tablet now and that’s fine, but it seems one sided, i.e., short sighted.
So, I started doing a little research about it.
Scientists have tested and basically proven that learning cursive is good for a child’s brain function, motor skills, hand-eye coordination,
Telluride, Colorado; Benjamin Morgan of Salt Lake City; Marcie Shoneman of Nashua, New Hampshire; Garrett Brown in Los Angeles and Paige McReynolds in Wells Bridge, New York. She was predeceased by her beloved sister Wendy Brown.” (Erna and Tom sponsor an annual Wendy Brown Cabaret concert by the Catskill Symphony.) She leaves behind her best friend of 49 years, Robyn Lynch of London. She also leaves behind her husband of 41 years, Tom Morgan of Franklin, New York. To whom she was devoted beyond words. It was her bold decisions and fine judgement that literally saved Tom from death on two occasions. His admiration of her is best summed up with, “She made everything possible.”
There will be a gathering to celebrate Erna’s life at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center in Oneonta. This will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 15. For friends unable to attend, the gathering will be available to stream live on the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center Facebook page. If you are interested in donating to one of Erna’s favorite causes, Helios (Hospice) Care in Oneonta and the Catskill Symphony Orchestra of Oneonta would be high on her list.
improving memory, spelling skill, and it may even help students with dyslexia. Since 2018, five states have joined the 18 that require cursive learning. The other 27 states do not demand cursive teaching. New York State is one of the latter. Any school district can choose to teach it if they want to. I always thought the NYS public school system was one of the best in the country. I’m not so sure any more.
How does a kid sign his name, with block letters?! Think about people whose parents have passed on, going
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Letters
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through their things and finding a bundle of love letters, or reading V-Mail to and from soldiers in World War II. Visiting the Rotunda in Washington, D.C. they will be unable to read the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights or the United States Constitution.
There might be a bright side to this, but I don’t believe it. The United States National Archives is trying to hire people who can read cursive to transcribe 250-plus years of federal records.
I have to admit it, I’ve become an old fogey.
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of DSJA Enterprises, LLC.
Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 8/25/2025. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to: The LLC, 142 Winney Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.
6LegalOct.9
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Notice of formatioN of Golden Swan Property LLC.
Articles of organization filed with SSNY on 8/29/2025. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 1469, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalOct.9
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Notice of formatioN of Yoga Strategy, LLC
Articles of organization filing date with the Department of State (SSNY) August 13, 2025. Office location:
Out of touch for sure, and guilty as charged. They don’t diagram sentences anymore; nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives. I have burned in my brain, “Conjunction Junction, what’s your function?” from my kids watching “Schoolhouse Rock” on PBS. I’m not sure if a course called civics is still taught.
All that being said, I want to thank the school board for dedicating their free time and volunteering to take on a difficult job. All the staff at our schools deserve our respect and appreciation for taking on a very important job—
Otsego county. SSNY has been designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 34 West End Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS law.
6LegalOct.9
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY Name:
Gothicville Enterprises LLC.
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 12 April 2025. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 988 County Highway 38 Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalOct.9
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Notice of formatioN of Stepping Stones Behavioral Solutions, LLC
Filed with SSNY on 8/4/2025. Office location Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 1511 County Rt. 39, Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.16
educating our children. God bless you all. Respectfully, I’m climbing down off my soapbox now. Kevin Grady Cooperstown
Bridge
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construction is because of that regulatory review,” Wilson said.
To address the bridge issues, the village will need outside funding. Gilbertsville’s annual budget is about $318,000.00. Woishnis told AllOtsego in an interview that one of the other two bridges out of service, one on Green
Street that serves residential areas, would cost as much as $1 million to fix. Another bridge on Mill Street has been out for “nearly a decade” due to flooding, Woishnis said. The recently closed Meadowbrook Bridge would cost far more to fix.
“My biggest thing is the safety factor around all of this,” Woishnis said.
The issue will be discussed at the county board’s October 16, 9 a.m. Public Works Committee meeting in Board Chambers at the county offices in Cooperstown.
LEGALS
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Notice of formatioN of TLC ENGINEERING, PLLC
Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/3/25. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 8-12 Dietz St., Ste. 202, Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: To practice Engineering.
6LegalOct.16
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Notice of formatioN of JDG CONTRACTING LLC, Articles of org. filed with the SSNY on 8/22/2025. Office: Otsego County. US Corporation Agents Inc designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to US Corporation Agents Inc., 7014 13th Ave., Suite 202, Brooklyn NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.16
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Notice of formatioN of Shove Enterprises LLC.
Arts. of org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/4/2020. Office Location: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process: Robert A. Gouldin, Esq., 93 Main
Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: any lawful activities.
6LegalOct.16
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Notice of formatioN of Starview Storage LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 2, 2025. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 271 Texas Road Springfield Center, NY 13468 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalOct.23
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Notice of formatioN of Bless Your Heart LLC
Articles of organization filed with SSNY on 8/5/2025 Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as an agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 8 Doubleday Court, Cooperstown, NY 13326. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalOct.30
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Notice of formatioN of Limited LiabiLitY compaNY:
The name of the limited liability company is: Thorp Brook Farm, LLC (the “Company”). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of
caa
announces Holiday Show
COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Art Association’s annual Holiday Show and Sale will run from November 15 to December 23 in the Village Hall galleries at 22 Main Street. Member artists may drop off work on Friday and Saturday, November 7 and 8, with pickup for unsold works available on January 2 and 3. Each artist may contribute up to six small two-dimensional works, with tighter restrictions on larger pieces or three-dimensional works. CAA will retain a 30 percent commission on all sales. For more information or to register, visit cooperstownart.com or call (607) 547-9777.
Delhi celebrates Program Launch
DELHI—SUNY Delhi celebrated the successful launch of SUNY ASAP|ACE, a transformative new student retention and degree completion program, at a campus event on Thursday, October 2. Advancing Success in Associate Pathways and Advancing Completion through Engagement provide financial resources and wraparound support to students in associate and baccalaureate programs, respectively. Delhi is one of only a handful of campuses offering both pilot programs.
State was September 17, 2025. The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Company to Thorp Brook Farm, LLC, 662 Rimmon Hill Road, Beacon Falls, CT 06403. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.
6LegalOct.30
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
MOMMAS MARKET LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 23 September 2025. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 216 Bentley Oaks Blvd., Auburndale, FL 33823. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalNov.6
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
SACRED MEN SING LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 29 August 2025. Office location: Otsego County.
SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 1184, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalNov.6
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: STERLING BUR LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 23 September 2025.
Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 58 Chestnut St. Apt. B, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalNov.6
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Notice of formatioN of DISCO MUFFIN LLC
Arts of Org. filed with SSNY 8/26/2025 Otsego Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE ST, # 112, ALBANY, NY, 12207 General Purpose
6LegalNov.6
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pUbLic Notice of LaW
NOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Representatives of the
County of Otsego at a meeting thereof held on the 1st day of October, 2025, duly adopted a Local Law entitled: A Local Law imposing an additional mortgage recording tax in Otsego County.
The intent of this Local Law is to continue to impose an additional mortgage recording tax.
The full text of this Local Law of 2025 is available on the Otsego County website.
Dated: October 9, 2025
Carol D. McGovern Clerk of the Board of Representatives Otsego County, New York 1LegalOct.9
LegaL nOtice pUbLic Notice of LaW
NOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Representatives of the County of Otsego at a meeting thereof held on the 1st day of October, 2025, duly adopted Local Law 5 of 2025 entitled: A Local Law to override the tax levy limit established in General Municipal Law §3-C.
It is the intent of this Local Law to override the limit on the amount of real property taxes that may be levied and to allow the County of Otsego to adopt a budget for the FY2026 that requires a real property tax levy in excess of the “tax levy limit”.
The full text of this Local Law of 2025 is available on the Otsego County website.
Dated: October 9, 2025
Carol D. McGovern Clerk of the Board of Representatives Otsego County, New York 1LegalOct.9
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Notice of formatioN of
Charming Familiar Studio LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/02/2025. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: Charming Familiar Studio LLC, P.O. Box 213, Gilbertsville, NY 13776. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalNov.13
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SUmmoNS WitH Notice: SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK: COUNTY OF OTSEGO; Index No. EF2025-349: SIDNEY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, -vsBERNARD J. MCCANN, Defendant. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear in this action by serving a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorney within thirty (30) days after service of this summons is complete and in case of your failure to appear, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Brian D. Burns, J.S.C., signed and filed in the Otsego County Clerk’s office on September 30,
2025 under the Index Number EF2025-349.
The object of this action is for breach of contract for non-payment of monies due and owing under a Loan and Security Agreements and Disclosure dated May 26, 2022, and a Consumer Credit Card Agreement and Disclosure dated June 22, 2022.
Dated: September 30, 2025, Amanda C Shaw, Esq., Riehlman, Shafer & Shaw, LLC, Attorneys for Plaintiff, 7693 Route 281, P.O. Box 544, Tully, NY 131590544, (315) 696-6347 4LegalOct.30
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Notice of formatioN of W&M Unlimited, LLC.
Filed 7/23/25. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to 499 St. Rt. 51, Gilbertsville, NY 13776. Purp: any lawful. 6LegalNov.13
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Notice of formatioN of SLUGGERS LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/26/25. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC, 418 Broadway, Ste. N, Albany, NY 12207 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalNov.13
►Need to publish a Notice of formatioN, public Notice, supplemeNtal summoNs, or Notice to bidders? Contact Larissa at 607-547-6103 or ads@allotsego.com and she can get you started.
County
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public hearing was adjourned.
Frazier then stood before the board to recognize the county’s September 2025 retirees. Frazier commended Jennifer Taylor, a case worker for the Department of Social Services, and David Jaeger, a heavy water equipment operator for the Otsego County Highway Department, for their many years of service to the county and its citizens.
As the clock struck 10 a.m., the meeting was officially called to order. Rep. Richard Brockway was absent. Rep. Jill Basile was not present for any votes during the consent agenda portion of the meeting.
Numerous speakers utilized the privilege of the floor to address the board on issues concerning them. Notably, Teresa Winchester, Lynn Ohl, and Gilbertsville Mayor Aidan Woishnis each spoke to their grievances regarding the recent closure of the Gilbertsville Meadow Brook Bridge on County Route 4. Winchester read from a letter describing how the bridge was closed due to it being declared unsafe for use, but said that the county had known of its failing condition for years. She said funding was secured for a bridge replacement in 2023, but that work that was supposed to be done in 2025 never occurred, with a new expected completion date in October of 2027. Being the third bridge closed in Gilbertsville, with a fourth to soon be under construction due to New York State Department of Transportation plans, all three speakers called attention to the damage to local business, school bus routes, and emergency services, and said that the bridge replacement should be given priority.
More information on this issue can be found on page XX.
Following these passionate orations, Edward Dawyot addressed the board, talking about increasing electricity bills and criticizing changes in the management of NYSEG and local companies’ involvement in the power grid. Dawyot called for moving power lines below ground, mirroring practices he witnessed during his time in Las Vegas.
With Dawyot’s remarks closing out the privilege of the floor, the meeting moved to the sole special presentation of the day. Jody Zakrevsky, chief executive officer of the County of Otsego Industrial Development Agency, began by introducing newly appointed Economic Development Director Terrell Marshburn, who said he was looking forward to bringing his ideas to the community.
Zakrevsky then detailed progress on the Richfield Springs Business Park, estimating the project’s budget to be around $2.4 million, with a scheduled completion date in January 2026. Among other contributors, the
Economic Development Administration supplied the IDA with a sizable $1.2 million grant. The Otsego Now website elaborates further on the project and says that the property consists of “85,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space to house Andela Products and Ruby Lake Glass.”
Next, Zakrevsky spoke on Sportsfield Specialities’ purchase of 34 acres of land to build a new campus and office space in the Oneonta Business Park. Zakrevsky stated that around $160,000.00 came out of the IDA’s income in processes to hire virtual archeologists and excavation companies to prepare the property for sale. He also shared that the IDA has been working with building inspectors to increase assessments of properties of interest to ensure accurate valuations. Assessments so far have increased the collective expected valuation of properties by more than $25 million. Zakrevsky mentioned how the IDA was concerned with funding earlier in the year, as they were running out due to the Richfield Springs project and lack of support from the Federal Economic Development Administration. In gratitude for the faith that the county had in them in such financially difficult times, the IDA presented the board with a $600,000.00 check to pay back the loan they took from the county, a year and three months before the payment was due.
Upon the conclusion of the presentation, Frazier moved the agenda along to committee addresses.
Rep. Keith McCarty spoke for the Public Works Committee and listed a few bids that were approved for roofing repairs and window replacements at county facilities. He said there is ongoing discussion on how to refurbish the veterans’ monument, in Cooperstown and suggested that a GoFundMe could be created to support the effort. On a more disconcerting note, McCarty then brought up concerns over the ability of the county to plow snow this winter, with five or six vacancies still needing to be filled.
Rep. Margaret Kennedy represented the Administration Committee and talked about a presentation that was given comparing Otsego County municipal
spending and revenue trends to those of similar counties.
“With regard to the trends in spending and revenues across municipalities, the trends have been that expenses have been increasing by roughly 7 percent a year on expenditures,” Kennedy recounted. “So then obviously, when we’re trying to stay within a 2 percent cap, that comes to a pinch point after a certain number of years. And, I think as we are well into our budget season now, we know that we’re kind of living in that space.”
Kennedy went on to detail how the Administration Committee was exploring a concept for a program for centralized administrative services, approved a proposed study of revenues, and designated Destination Marketing as Otsego County’s official tourism promotion agency, a designation required for the organization to receive state funding.
Rep. Andrew Marietta shared information from the latest Technology and Strategic Planning Committee meeting and addressed what committee members see as a need to publish Otsego County’s ClearGov page.
“We feel that given the ongoing discussions we’re having around our budget and the…challenges we’re facing, and the impact that those possible cuts will have on services provided by our departments, that our strategic plans and all of the information that’s in our strategic plan—as well as the quarterly updates that many of our departments have entered—really is invaluable information for Otsego County residents as we move into a very difficult decisionmaking process.”
Marietta further noted that the committee was in support of going on the record saying that they will make the entire page accessible to the public via a resolution later added to the consent agenda.
County Administrator Steve Wilson shared that of Otsego County’s $169 million budget for 2025, the county has spent 63 percent as of the end of September, though he said to keep in mind that many of the expenses incurred by the county actually occur after the end of the calendar year. Wilson mentioned that
the county’s contingency fund was $1.6 million this year, with $834,654.00 spent as of resolutions passed at this meeting. He then told the board that Otsego County, who he will represent, was invited for the second time to a national conference on citizen-centric budgeting, which focuses on improved transparency and communication with a county’s citizenry.
Kennedy spoke again before closing committee addresses and mentioned how Frazier brought a resolution to the Administration Committee from the recent New York State Association of Counties conference that was intent on “pass[ing] a resolution urging Governor Hochul to alter state spending and ensure New York’s on a fiscally responsible path.”
Kennedy’s takeaway from the NYSAC conference was that county governments would be taking on a lot of economic brunt from federal funding cuts. The resolution addressing these concerns, Resolution 342, was pulled from the consent agenda for individual consideration, and later approved.
Rep. Michelle Catan elaborated on the progress at the last Southern Tier 8 board meeting. She shouted out Tammie Harris for coordinating a medical Innovative Readiness Training program where the military comes into communities to offer medical, dental, and veterinary assistance at no cost. Southern Tier 8 approved
Otsego County hosting this program in 2027, with some services tentatively being located at Hartwick College.
As the meeting moved to the consent agenda, Resolution 334 was pulled in favor of further private discussion on the matter in executive session. The rest of the consent agenda was approved unanimously.
Frazier once again emphasized the importance of passing the resolution addressing Governor Hochul in order to combat the 250 percent increase in the expected state budget deficit. He stated that he felt it was unjust to make counties pay for state programs when the state doesn’t properly allocate its budget. The resolution was passed unanimously before entering executive session.
The meeting returned to open session roughly 20 minutes later and the board withdrew Resolution 334 following apparent discussion surrounding it during executive session. Resolution 344 was introduced and passed, overriding the tax levy limit. Marietta introduced Resolution 346 to publicize the information available on Otsego County’s ClearGov page, which was passed. With a final few votes, business was completed for the day and the meeting was adjourned. The full meeting can be viewed at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=zz2kp4c5o Ss&t=395s.
The next Otsego County
Board of Representatives meeting will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 5 at the county offices in Cooperstown.
OFO
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the organization can use. Also, rest assured, local nonprofit staff and leaders are very resourceful. For example, if OFO received a call to ask if we could use a donated item such as a wheelchair, and there was another local agency that could benefit from that donation based on their mission, such as Helios or a veteran’s organization, we would communicate that to the donor and put them in contact with the organization. I know other organizations reciprocate that to us as well.
Don’t take for granted that all nonprofits will weather the storm. We each have the opportunity to impact change, whether it be big or small. I encourage you to get involved and contact Opportunities for Otsego or other local nonprofit organizations and simply ask, how can I help?
Tanya Shalor is the chief executive officer of Opportunities for Otsego.
CANDIDATES: IN THEIR WORDS
AllOtsego’s 2025 pre-election coverage begins this week with a series of questions posed to City of Oneonta mayoral candidates Daniel Buttermann (DEM, BON) and Luisa Montanti (REP). There was no word limit given. These are the candidates’ responses as they were received.
1. If elected, what will be your top priorities?
BUTTERMANN:
a. Budget and tax increases—keep taxes within the state tax cap.
b. Find ways to make local government more efficient.
c. Collaboration with the colleges and private developers for economic development initiatives.
MONTANTI:
As the future mayor of Oneonta, my top priorities will center on fiscal responsibility, community balance and longterm sustainability.
First and foremost, the most important responsibility of local government is to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents through effective public safety and public works—including our fire and police departments, water and sewer systems, roads, and parks. These core services are the foundation of a healthy, functioning community.
Unfortunately, over the past 25 years, some of these essential areas have been neglected. It’s time to take a step back and realign our priorities.
As mayor, I will make sure our city government gets back to the basics—
protecting our residents, maintaining our infrastructure, and investing in the vital services that keep Oneonta strong and thriving.
First, fiscal responsibility must come before everything else. Oneonta cannot afford to grow in ways that strain taxpayers or increase dependency on state aid. Every dollar spent must serve the public good. I will ensure city resources are used wisely—focusing on essential services, infrastructure improvements, and supporting local businesses that generate real economic value and long-term stability.
Second, balanced development is critical. For too long, Oneonta has carried a disproportionate share of tax-exempt and low-income housing, leaving middle-class families and small businesses to shoulder too much of the burden. I will advocate for responsible growth that strengthens our tax base, attracts employers, and provides housing opportunities for working professionals and young families—ensuring a vibrant, diverse community.
Third, we must revitalize our downtown and strengthen community partnerships. That means
YMCA To Combat High Blood Pressure
ONEONTA
The Oneonta Family YMCA announced the launch of a new Blood Pressure SelfMonitoring Program last week. Officials said the proven, evidence-based initiative, aimed at helping individuals take control of their heart health, is in response to one of the nation’s most urgent health concerns.
Often referred to as the “silent killer,” high blood pressure, or hypertension, affects nearly half of all adults in the United States, according to a press release, yet only about one in four individuals has it under control. The condition dramatically increases the risk of heart disease and stroke—two of the leading causes of death nationwide.
“Right here in Otsego County, many of our neighbors are living with high blood pressure, often without knowing it,” said Kelly Morrissey, Healthy Heart Ambassador Program Manager at the Oneonta Family YMCA.
“This program gives people the tools, guidance and encouragement they need to better manage their health in a supportive, community-centered environment,” Morrissey said.
The YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is an evidence-based program designed for adults with high blood pressure who want to improve their health outcomes. Participants, paired with a trained Healthy Heart Ambassador, will receive: education on how to accurately monitor blood pressure at home; individualized support and coaching; regular check-ins and guidance; and strategies for building heart-healthy habits that last.
Unlike traditional clinical settings, the Y offers a welcoming and familiar environment where participants can feel comfortable taking control of their health journey, officials said.
“This program isn’t just about tracking numbers. It’s about helping people live longer, healthier lives,” said Morrissey. “It’s another way the Y is going beyond the gym to build a healthier, stronger community.”
The Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is now open to eligible participants. To learn more, contact Morrissey at (607) 432-0010, extension 205, or kmorrissey@oneontaymca.org. More information is also available at www.oneontaymca.org.
working hand in hand with Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta to encourage graduates to stay, support local entrepreneurs, and fostering civic pride that unites our permanent residents and student populations.
Lastly, I am deeply committed to public safety and quality of life. A clean, safe, and welcoming Oneonta benefits everyone—residents, visitors, and future generations. My administration will prioritize collaboration, transparency, and accountability to restore trust in city government and ensure that Oneonta thrives once again as the heart of Otsego County.
2. What are the top three challenges currently being faced by the City of Oneonta, and how will you address these?
BUTTERMAN:
• Housing. Encourage private developers to build single-family homes, multi-unit buildings and condos.
• Budget. The city has limited ability to grow, but the city needs to grow in order to continue to provide services without significant increases to the properties already on the tax system. We need to ensure spending does not exceed revenues.
• Economic development. Encourage new businesses to locate in the city and for existing businesses to expand.
MONTANTI:
As a mayoral candidate, I believe the City of Oneonta is at a pivotal moment—full of potential but facing serious challenges that require steady, practical leadership. Under the current administration, spending has grown out of control— with taxpayer dollars too often directed toward pet projects instead of real priorities. Meanwhile, too many homes and commercial buildings sit vacant, dragging down our neighborhoods and stifling economic growth.
It’s time for respon-
sible leadership that puts residents first. As mayor, I will end wasteful spending, say no to political pet projects, and make sure City Council members remember who they serve—the people of Oneonta, not their own personal or political interests.
The top three challenges we face are economic stagnation, housing imbalance, and public safety and community well-being.
1. Economic stagnation and fiscal responsibility. Our small businesses and local workforce are struggling under the weight of inflation and limited opportunity. We need to grow our tax base—not through higher taxes, but through smart development that brings jobs, supports local entrepreneurs, and keeps dollars circulating in our community. I’ll focus on streamlining business permitting, attracting responsible investment, and ensuring every city dollar is spent wisely. Fiscal discipline will be at the heart of every decision.
2. Housing imbalance and property tax equity. Oneonta has built a significant amount of low-income and taxexempt housing, far more than many cities our size. While compassion and inclusivity remain important, we must also protect the long-term fiscal health of our community. I will advocate for balanced growth—encouraging home ownership, market-rate housing, and responsible redevelopment that contributes to the tax rolls. Any future housing proposals must be transparent, carefully reviewed by real estate and municipal experts, and reflect the needs of all residents, not just one sector.
3. Public safety, mental health and community well-being. We’re seeing increasing challenges related to homelessness, addiction, and mental health that affect residents, visitors, and businesses alike. I will work to strengthen partnerships with mental
health providers, expand access to local treatment programs, and support our police and first responders with the tools and training they need to ensure safety with compassion.
In short, my approach is rooted in fiscal responsibility, balanced growth, and community integrity—ensuring Oneonta remains a safe, thriving, and welcoming place for all who call it home.
3. What is your stance on the proposed RSS Solstice Commons housing proposal and why?
BUTTERMANN:
I would like to see RSS invest in Oneonta and build the apartments in some form as they are proposing. We need more housing options in Oneonta, and RSS can answer for part of those needs.
MONTANTI:
As a mayoral candidate, I believe the RSS Solstice Commons proposal must be approached with both compassion and fiscal responsibility. While I support efforts to provide safe and supportive housing for those in need, I have serious concerns about the financial and long-term impacts of this particular project on the City of Oneonta.
At present, our community already carries a significant number of taxexempt and low-income housing properties. Each additional nonprofit development of this scale further reduces our tax base and shifts the burden onto homeowners and small businesses. Before moving forward, we must ensure that any proposal includes a fair financial contribution to the city—whether through a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement or another form of shared responsibility.
Furthermore, this process should not be rushed. It deserves a full review by qualified municipal and real estate attorneys experienced in nonprofit development contracts to ensure that the city’s interests are fully protected. Decisions of this magnitude should be made transparently, with community input and careful consideration by the next administration.
4. Though in the Town of Oneonta rather than the city, what do you think about the proposed data center?
BUTTERMANN:
I do not know enough about the project to have an opinion. Generally, I think it is a good sign when a developer or entrepreneur wants to open up in the greater Oneonta community, and I welcome it.
Like any other commercial project, there will be a community impact, and I hope the Planning Board works through all parts of the application and proposed project to adequately address and solve for the kinds of challenges or problems this kind of project might include, such as environmental impacts or energy usage.
MONTANTI:
While the proposed data center is located in the Town of Oneonta rather than within the city, it is a project with regional implications that deserve close attention. Any large-scale development of this nature must be evaluated with fiscal discipline and full transparency.
Economic growth should strengthen our community—not burden taxpayers or strain shared infrastructure. If this project represents genuine private investment that creates stable, wellpaying jobs, broadens the tax base, and operates responsibly within our environmental and energy capacities, it could be a benefit to the area.
However, if it depends on public subsidies, excessive incentives, or results in increased costs for residents, it would not reflect sound or sustainable governance. My priority is to ensure that any development contributes to long-term fiscal health, respects local resources, and aligns with the responsible stewardship that our residents expect and deserve.
5. The City of Oneonta has a large and transient student population. What do you see as your responsibility to them? What policies and programs do you support to keep them here after graduation, if any?
In short, I believe the RSS proposal, as it stands, is premature. We must slow down, ensure accountability and pursue housing solutions that balance compassion with fiscal sustainability for Oneonta’s future.
BUTTERMANN: We are so lucky to have two colleges in our community, and I think we absolutely have a responsibility to the students. As a city, we have a responsibility to
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Mayor
Continued from page 14
welcome them as members of our community, even if their stay here is only a few years. I think the Town-Gown Task Force that Mayor [Mark] Drnek created is an excellent way to collaboratively find ways to build and act as a community together. This is an initiative I will continue to support as mayor. As noted above, locating new businesses in Oneonta as well as supporting the expansion of existing businesses will allow for many students to stay in Oneonta after graduation.
MONTANTI:
The students who come to Oneonta bring energy, innovation and talent to our city. As mayor, I believe we have a responsibility to make sure they feel safe, respected and connected while they’re here — not just as temporary residents, but as part of the broader community.
That means maintaining good communication between the city, colleges, landlords and neighborhoods to ensure that students understand local expectations while also feeling valued. I’d like to see us strengthen partnerships with both SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College, encouraging more internships, community projects and entrepreneurship opportunities that connect students to our local economy. Keeping graduates here depends on opportunity. If we can make Oneonta a place where young people can find affordable housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging, many will stay. My focus will be on fostering small business growth, supporting downtown revitalization and expanding collaboration with our colleges to help graduates start their careers locally.
Ultimately, I want our students to see Oneonta not just as a college town—but as a hometown worth investing in.
6. If elected, what will you do to ease the homelessness issues in the city?
BUTTERMAN:
This is an issue that cannot be addressed by one agency or municipality. The city can refer individuals to Opportunities for Otsego and support the programs offered that can help homeless individuals. The city does not have a social services department, and the city can support the county’s responsibility.
MONTANTI: If elected, my approach to easing homelessness in our city will focus on compassion, accountability, and practical solutions that strengthen both individuals and our community.
First, I believe homelessness is not simply a housing issue—it’s often rooted in mental health challenges, addiction and economic instability. We need to address the causes, not just the symptoms. I’ll work to partner
CANDIDATES: IN THEIR WORDS
with local service organizations, faith-based groups, and county agencies to coordinate mental health and substance abuse resources, ensuring people get the help they need to become self-sufficient.
Second, I’ll support pathways to work and housing readiness programs—initiatives that teach skills, connect people to employers, and help them transition responsibly into stable housing.
Third, I’ll make sure our taxpayers’ dollars are used wisely. While compassion is essential, we cannot continue funding programs that enable dependency or lack measurable results.
Every dollar should move someone closer to independence, not sustain a cycle of homelessness.
In short: We’ll combine compassion with accountability—helping people rebuild their lives while maintaining the safety, cleanliness and fiscal responsibility our residents deserve.
7. Local municipalities often rely on funding from the state to meet their needs. What are your priorities in securing funds from the state, and how will you approach that process?
BUTTERMANN: Apply for all grants that the city is eligible for and that support its development.
MONTANTI: Local municipalities like ours depend on state funding to maintain essential services and invest in growth. My priority will be to advocate for funding that directly improves quality of life—infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic development—while ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely and transparently.
I believe our approach must be both proactive and collaborative. That means building strong relationships with our state representatives, staying engaged in Albany’s budget process and being prepared with data-driven proposals that demonstrate clear community impact.
At the same time, I’ll work to reduce overreliance on state aid by strengthening our local economy, supporting small businesses and promoting responsible budgeting. My goal is to make sure Otsego County and the City of Oneonta receive their fair share of state support—not by asking for handouts, but by presenting strong, well-planned initiatives that show return on investment for both our community and New York State.
8. The national political climate has grown intense, including multiple assassinations and assassination attempts over the last year. What do you believe are local answers for maintaining peaceful political engagement?
BUTTERMANN:
More engagement. More events. We see on TV the words and actions of politicians delivering
repressive rhetoric that can chill even communities like ours that are not directly related or connected to them. It is not in the city’s interest to engage in national politics, however, citizens of Oneonta should express their positions freely and safely.
MONTANTI:
As a mayoral candidate, I believe our greatest defense against political violence is to strengthen our sense of community right here at home. National tensions may be high, but Oneonta can and should be an example of what civil, respectful engagement looks like.
Locally, that means encouraging dialogue and understanding rather than division or conflict. Our small city cannot truly grow or move forward if we remain divided or allow divisiveness to guide our planning and decision-making. We can host community forums, town halls and listening sessions where people feel genuinely heard, not dismissed. It also means training our local leaders, law enforcement, and volunteers in de-escalation and conflict resolution, so that disagreements never turn dangerous.
Our schools, churches, civic groups, and local media can also play a role in restoring a culture of respect—one that values facts, kindness and accountability over outrage. We can promote civility campaigns and youth engagement programs that teach how to debate ideas without attacking people.
At the heart of it, peace begins with how we treat each other. If Oneonta stays rooted in neighborly compassion and responsibility, we can be a calm, steady light amid a very turbulent national climate.
9. President Trump has made mass deportations one of his top priorities, often in partnership with local municipalities through arrests, deten-
tion, sharing data about immigrants, and more. Should Otsego County/the City of Oneonta collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement? If so, how?
BUTTERMANN:
My wife is an immigrant and one of the most inspiring days in my life was watching her take the oath of citizenship on November 17, 2017. I would be honored to see more and more people take such an oath. My life and family is immeasurably better due to the bravery and courage shown by my wife to come to the United States, and I will always and forever support immigration to our country.
MONTANTI:
The City of Oneonta’s first responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who lives here. I believe in fairness, accountability, and working cooperatively with state and federal agencies when serious crimes or threats to public safety arise. At the same time, I don’t believe our local police should be used for routine immigration enforcement. Their focus should stay on protecting our community, building trust and keeping Oneonta a safe and welcoming place for all.
Our police resources should remain focused on community safety, not immigration status. Collaboration with federal agencies like ICE should be limited to instances where an individual poses genuine criminal threats, such as violent offenders or those involved in trafficking or gang activity.
At the same time, Oneonta should remain a community where all people feel safe to report crimes, send their children to school and seek help when needed. That’s how we build trust, uphold the law and maintain order.
In short: Yes, we should cooperate with federal authorities when public safety is at risk, but we must not erode local trust by turning our police into immigration agents. Our focus must stay on protecting and serving the people of Oneonta.
10. Housing costs continue to be a challenge for many New Yorkers and Otsego County residents. What policies and programs do you support to keep the cost of housing affordable for your constituents?
BUTTERMANN:
We need to increase housing options in order to keep prices from raising too much. As discussed above, we need to go after all forms of housing, from apartments to single-family homes. Specifically, I think the city can work to rehab older homes that are not currently habitable or abandoned, and can do so with strategic partnerships with local developers that have a long-term plan.
MONTANTI:
Housing costs continue to be a challenge for families, young professionals and seniors across Otsego County. As mayor, I believe we must take a balanced and community-driven approach that supports affordability while protecting taxpayers and neighborhood integrity.
First, I support targeted incentives for workforce and first-time homebuyers, especially
teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders who serve our community but struggle to live here. Partnering with local banks and housing agencies to create down-payment assistance programs and low-interest loans will help residents build equity instead of relying solely on rental housing.
Second, I will work to revitalize existing housing—preserving and improving our older housing stock through grants and low-interest rehabilitation programs. This keeps properties safe, energy-efficient and affordable without requiring major new developments.
Third, I believe in responsible development and zoning reform. We should streamline the permitting process for mixed-income and senior housing while ensuring new projects fit the character and capacity of our city. Developers who include affordable units should receive clear, transparent incentives— but not at the expense of overburdening local taxpayers.
Finally, I will strengthen partnerships with nonprofits and state agencies to access funding for housing stabilization and energy efficiency, ensuring that affordability goes hand-in-hand with sustainability.
Our goal must be a community where those who work here can afford to live here, and where every decision on housing reflects fiscal responsibility, fairness, and longterm vision.
►Friday, Oct. 10
CONTEST Sloan’s Best Buck Contest. Hunters of Otsego, Delaware, Chenango and Schoharie counties enter pictures of local bucks they harvest this hunting season. Judging on best photo, not size. Held through 12/7. Winners announced 12/10. Sloan’s New York Grill, 337 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 2674779.
DEADLINE Last day to register for “Voices of Otsego: Forum on Community Health Needs and Priorities Shaped by Feedback from Otsego County’s Community Health Needs Assessment.” Presented by the Otsego County Department of Health. To be held 6-7:30 p.m. on 10/14 in the Morris Central School Cafeteria, 65 West Main Street, Morris. (607) 547-4230. CALL FOR ARTISTS
CANO is seeking artists for an Edgar Allen Poe group exhibition and related events. Must submit by 10/27. Community Arts Network of Oneonta. admin@canoneonta.org.
HALLOWEEN Children are invited to pick up a pumpkin, carve it and return it to be displayed for the chance to win prizes. Pumpkins available through 10/20 and must be returned by 10/25. Bob’s Country Store, 102 State Highway 165, Roseboom. (607) 264-3007.
QUILT SHOW 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Generations of Quilts: Quilt Show 2025.” Featuring local quilters and demonstrations. Admission fee applies. Continues 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on 10/11 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on 10/12. The Major’s Inn, 104 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2780.
FARMERS’ MARKET
3-6 p.m. Held Fridays at The Four Corners, Hartwick. (607) 2937530.
CHILI SUPPER
4:30-7 p.m. Eat in or
Things To Do In and Around Otsego County
take out. Fees apply. Pierstown Grange, 137 Wedderspoon Hollow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 237-2930.
DINNER 4:30-6 p.m.
“Roast Pork Dinner.” Eat in or take out. Open to the public. Fees apply. Laurens American Legion, 11 Main Street, Laurens. (607) 432-6314.
HALLOWEEN 6 p.m.
“Hyde & Shriek! Candlelight Ghost Tours.” Tickets required. Also held 10/11. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.
FIRE PIT FRIDAYS
6-10 p.m. Live music, food and more. Featuring music by Poverty Hill. The Tap House, Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 5441800.
HALLOWEEN
6:30 p.m.; doors open at 5:30 p.m. “Paint and Sip: Spooky Edition.” Fees apply; registration required. Morris VFW, 132 East Main Street, Morris. (607) 263-2411.
CONCERT 7 p.m.; doors open at 5 p.m. “The Grand Oneonta Opry.” Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6773 ext. 212.
MEET & GREET
7-9 p.m. Hartwick United. Freight Wheel Café, 3097 County Highway 11, Hartwick.
CONCERT 7 p.m. “The Mammals.” Genre defying, politically charged folk music on many instruments. Tickets required. West Kortright Center, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith. (607) 2785454.
SPORTSMEN
7:30-10 p.m. “Oneonta Pistol Team Weekly CPL Match.” Oneonta Sportsmen’s Club Inc., 251 Rod and Gun Club Road, Oneonta. (607) 433-0515.
FILM 8 p.m. Frightful
Friday: “Night of the Living Dead” (1968). Presented
Time OuT OTsegO
Things To Do In and Around Otsego County
by the SUNY Oneonta Activities Council. A group of Pennsylvanians barricade themselves against flesh-eating ghouls. Free. Hunt Union Red Dragon Theatre, 68 Bugbee Road, Oneonta. (607) 436-3730.
COMEDY 8 p.m.
Stand-up comedy with North Country Comedy Tour. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.
►Saturday, Oct. 11
FUNDRAISER 8 a.m.
Pancake breakfast to support the Richfield Springs Fire Department. Cost is by donation. Followed by Fire Department demo at noon. Richfield Springs Fire Department, 34 East James Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 922-4881.
FUNDRAISER 9 a.m. “The Trailwagger Trail Run.” Presented by the Clark Sports Center and Super Heroes Humane Society. Fees apply; registration required. Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC State Park Road, Laurens. (607) 547-2800.
FAIR 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fall Craft Fair. Edmeston Free Library, 26 East Street, Edmeston. (607) 965-8280.
OPEN HOUSE 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Chicken barbecue, tours and more. Pittsfield Fire Department, 167 State Highway 80, New Berlin. (607) 267-0378.
ART CLASS 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Gelli Plate Printing Class.” With instructor Antoinette Basso. Continues 10/18 and 10/25. Fees apply; registration required. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Schenevus. (607) 3977309.
TRACTOR FEST
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Continues 10/12. Fenimore
Farm and County Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.
BICENTENNIAL
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Hyde Hall Covered Bridge 200th Year Celebration.” Music, classic car show, kid’s activities, history and more. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Route 31, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8662.
MAKERS MARKET
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Halloween Market.” Markets held 2nd Saturday of each month. Southside Mall, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 4324401.
PLANETARIUM Family-friendly shows open to the public. Fees apply; tickets required. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, Oneonta. (607) 436-2011.
• 10:30 a.m. “Cultures in the Cosmos.”
• 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.”
CONSERVATION
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Member, Volunteer and Community Appreciation Day.” Presented by Otsego County Conservation Association. Featuring a hike, crafting, food and connection with the OCCA community. RSVP required. Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Road, Laurens. (607) 547-4488.
PAINTING 1-4 p.m. Plein Air Painting Workshop. Fees apply; registration required. Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith. (607) 278-5744.
WORKSHOP
1-3:30 p.m. “Gelli-Plate Printmaking.” Fees apply; registration required. Eagle Street Studio Printmaking, 20 Eagle Street, Cooperstown. (607) 3766839.
WORKSHOP
1-4 p.m. “The Art of Block Printing: Three Workshop
Experience.” Presented by the Leatherstocking Brush and Palette Club. Fees apply; registration required. Held Saturdays through 10/25. Springfield Community Center, 129 County Road 29A, Springfield Center. lbpceducation@yahoo.com.
SEWING CLASS
1:30-3 p.m. All experience levels welcome. Held every Saturday. The Green Giraffe, 179 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-3234.
POTTERY 1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters work on personal projects. No instruction provided. Fees apply. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and 6-9 p.m. on Thursday. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org.
DRUM CIRCLE
2-4 p.m. Huntington Park, 60 Chestnut Street, Oneonta.
HALLOWEEN 3-10 p.m. “Shock-Toberfest 2025.” Scary movies, spooky merch, creepy creatures, professional pumpkin carving, makeup fx demos, costume contest and more. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
HARTWICK 4-8 p.m. “Back to School Night.” Walk the halls and explore the restoration of the historic Hartwick School. 32 Wells Avenue, Hartwick.
HALLOWEEN
5:30-8 p.m. “Things that go BUMP in the Night Ghost Tours.” Fees apply; registration required. Tours leave every half hour. Fenimore Farm and County Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.
FILM 7 p.m. “Night of the Comet.” Presented by the 2025 Worcester Wieting Theatre Fall Film Festival. Free; donations appreciated. Worcester Wieting Theatre, 168 Main Street, Worcester.
CONCERT 7:30 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m. “The Rubber Band.” Presented by Cherry Valley Artworks. The Star Theater, 44 Main Street, Cherry Valley.
►Sunday, Oct. 12
CELEBRATION
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Middlefield Fall Festival.” Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Middlefield Fire Department. Includes vendors, food, trunk or treat and the firemen’s parade at 1:30 p.m. County Highway 35, Hamlet of Middlefield.
MEDITATION
11 a.m. “Sundays at Samye: The Practical Bodhisattva—How to Be a Spiritual Hero in Everyday Life.” Meditation, study and discussion. Held Sundays through 12/21. Samye New York, 412 Glimmerglen Road, Cooperstown. (607) 5475051.
CAR SHOW 1 p.m. “Cars, Strikes and Bites!” Antique cars, tractors, trucks and more. Richfield Bowl-A-Rama, 20 Bronner Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-2695.
COMMUNITY 1-5 p.m.
Free concerts, workshops and art on the second Sunday of each month. This month features Cranston Dean performing at 2 p.m. West Kortright Center, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith. (607) 278-5454.
AUTHOR EXPO
2-4 p.m. Published authors meet readers, sell books, build community. Free admission; cash bar. Presented by the Huntington Memorial Library at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
MUSIC 4 p.m. “SUNY Oneonta RnB and Hip-
Hop Collective.” Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.
►MOnday, Oct. 13
cOLuMBuS day
POP-UP 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Vintage Clothing Pop-up with Charles and Dana.” The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111.
LIBRARY 11 a.m. “Creative Calm.” Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.
CONNECTIONS
12:45 p.m. Bluegrass Circle Jam Session. Meets 2nd Monday of each month in the Community Room with Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.
LIBRARY 2-3 p.m. “Technology Help.” Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.
ONEONTA HISTORY
5:30 p.m.; doors at 5 p.m. “GOHS 2025 Annual Dinner and Meeting.” Fees apply; registration required. Toscana, 76 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0960.
GARDEN 6:30 p.m.
“Learn about Composting from Worms Waste Not.” Presented by the Oneonta Garden Club. Free; open to the public. St. James Church, 305 Main Street, Oneonta.
PICKLEBALL
6:30-8 p.m. Fees apply; registration required. Presented by the Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School Fall 2025 Continuing Education. Cherry Valley-Springfield Elementary Gym, 597 County Route 54, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3265 ext. 110.
COMEDY 9 p.m. “Chuck’s Comedy Club: Tyler Korso.” Presented by the SUNY Oneonta Activities Council. Fees apply. Hunt Union Waterfront, 68 Bugbee Road, Oneonta. (607) 4363730.
►tueSday, Oct. 14
DEADLINE Last day to register for the “Dairy Processing Bootcamp.” Presented by Chobani. Free; lunch included. No experience required. Held 10/28 and 10/29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on 10/30 from 9 a.m. to noon. South Edmeston Community Church, 4259 County Highway 18, South Edmeston.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS 8-9 a.m. Local community members gather to chat about what’s happening around Oneonta. Held each Tuesday. Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6600.
COMMUNITY HIKE 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at the Andes Rail Trail, 266 Depot Street, Andes. Contact hike leader Tom Austin, (607) 435-8107.
SENIOR MEALS
11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal Monday-Friday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch cream of broccoli soup, chicken patty with lettuce on a roll, three-bean salad and fruit cocktail. (607) 547-6454.
• Each Monday-Friday. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta.
• Each Tuesday and Thursday. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs.
►
Visit allotsego.com/ otsego-county-events-calendar/ for the full calendar