The Freeman's Journal 03-19-20

CORONAVIRUS SPECIAL EDITION

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Cooperstown’s Newspaper

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VISIT www.AllOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S DAILY NEWSPAPER/ONLINE Volume 212, No. 12

Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, March 19, 2020

COOPERSTOWN AND AROUND

Newsstand Price $1

BASSETT GOES ON OFFENSIVE

1,000+ TESTS TAKEN Streck Expects Some Positives

By JIM KEVLIN & ELIZABETH COOPER COOPERSTOWN The Freeman’s Journal

Cooperstown Distillery proprietor Gene Marra unveils the “Cooper’s Clean” label. Distiller Daran Bottger looks on.

Distillery Set To Give Away Hand Cleaner

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r. Bill Streck, Bassett Healthcare Network CEO, told the county’s Emergency Task Force Tuesday, March 17, that there’s still a shortage of Coronavirus test kits

available locally.

Nonetheless, a lot of people have been swabbed at the testing tents set Streck up outside Bassett facilities. “Tests are out there, and coming back Please See BASSETT, A3

Local Governments Send Staff Home

By JIM KEVLIN COOPERSTOWN

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ollowing Governor Cuomo’s directive, Otsego County’s government and Oneonta’s City Hall took steps Tuesday, March 17, to send half of their workforce home.

Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh Kuch Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal Please See 50 PERCENT, A3 Ruffles, Chairman Bliss strategize.

THE MOOD OF MAIN STREETS

What About Tests?

What About Sports?

COOPERSTOWN

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ene Marra, the entrepreneurial founder of Cooperstown Distillery, has found a need and plans to fill it.

Hand sanitizers.

He’s ordered 200 fourounce bottle and plans to fill it with a 60-percent alcohol mixture. “Essentially vodka,” he said.

By later this week, he should be distributing them at no cost and see how it goes.

And the producer of Cooper’s Legacy Bourbon has come up with a logical name: Cooper’s Clean.

ON

AllOTSEGO.com

►RICHARD HANNA of Herkimer County, Otsego County’s congressman in 2010-16, has died of cancer at age 69. ►A FEW churches in Otsego County held services Sunday, March 15, but most decided to cancel for two weeks and longer after Governor Cuomo’s emergency declaration Friday, March 13. ►DESPITE THE EMERGENCY, the Knights of Columbus had already ordered the corn beef and cabbage and held its annual St. Patty’s Day Dinner at St. Mary’s Church Hall in Cooperstown, but most of the meals were takeout. ►tHE COUNTY’S PREMIER poverty-fighting agency, Opportunities for Otsego, announced Tuesday, March 17, it is closing for two weeks.

ALL SCHOOLS CLOSED, BUT...

By ELIZABETH COOPER

F Ian Austin/The Freeman’s Journal

Nate Roberts, Serenity Hobbies, Oneonta, is taking tabletop gaming online during the quarantine, but if you need a board game that isn’t virtual, he’ll deliver it to your house personally

From Videos To Take-Out, Merchants Seeking Niche The Gathering” tournament online too,” said Roberts.

“People can play from home.

ONEONTA We didn’t want to cancel it.”

As Coronavirus cases begin or Serenity Hobbies’ to mount in Upstate New proprietor Nate York – although one has yet Roberts, the game to surface in Otsego County must go on.

– Oneonta’s downtown is “We have weekly games preparing as best they can to that people still want to weather the storm. play,” he said. “But we have “Everyone was in on an account with Roll20, Friday, stocking up on which is software that creates books,” said Martha Bremer, a virtual tabletop and has a Green Toad Books. “Kids are Mike Joubert of voice chat.” out of school, but they still WiseGuys Sammy’s, want to read.”

It’s free for players, who is offering a meal will be invited by their “We had a lot of parents in deal to help cooped- here buying board games!”

Dungeon Masters to join as up families enjoy each game is set up. “We’re said Roberts. “Everyone’s a meal out while taking our weekly “Magic: Please See MERCHANTS, A3 indoors.

By LIBBY CUDMORE

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amilies across Otsego County are working to adjust to a new normal of “social distancing,” and for many that includes having their school-age children at home.

Fears about the COVID19 virus and its contagion have brought a massive and rapid change to how we live, and it isn’t yet clear what impacts that will have on routines students and families have lived by for decades.

• How long will the schools remain closed?

Crankshaw

Brindley

• What will happen if students can’t prepare or take state mandated tests?

• Will summer vacation need to be cancelled if students miss two months of school now?

• What will happen to spring athletic programs?

These are some of the Please See SCHOOLS, B4

Food Banks Non-Profits Brace For Stricken By Onslaught Cancellations

By LIBBY CUDMORE ONEONTA

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ith the kids home and many workers facing temporary layoffs as Coronavirus quarantines shutter businesses and send workforces home, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Walton Levitt, Coordinator, Hunger Coalition, is anticipating a higher demand on food pantries and Please See NEEDY, A2

By LIBBY CUDMORE ONEONTA

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n 2019, The Catskill Symphony Orchestra brought in record $47,000 with their annual Cabaret Concert, where guest conductors vie for contributions to conduct “Stars and Stripes Forever” at the show’s conclusion.

But on Thursday, March 12, the CSO announced that Please See NON-PROFIT, A2

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA, OTSEGO COUNTY’S LARGEST PRINT CIRCULATION 2010 WINNERS OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Cancellation Costs CSO $47,000 NON-PROFIT/From A1 its biggest fundraiser and the debut of new music director designee Maciej Zoltowski would be cancelled with no plans to reschedule.

“We had no choice,” said Thomas Wolf, executive director. “The governor demanded that every gathering over 100 people be cancelled.”

The CSO was one of several area organizations that saw major fundraisers and events cancelled in the wake of Coronavirus caution.

“It’s devastating for any non-profit,” said Bill Youngs, Foothills executive director.

Foothills, which relies primarily on rentals for income, had several events cancel over the weekend and into the future.

The annual Shamrock Swing mother-son dance was cancelled, and the Little Delaware Youth Ensemble cancelled their rehearsals.

“We were going to go ahead with our stream of the Metropolitan Opera (on

Saturday, March 14), but they cancelled all the performances, so we had nothing to stream,” said Geoff Doyle, operations manager. “They made the decision for us.”

Only a production of Bold Theatrics “Venus in Fur,” went on as scheduled. “We had 40 people the first night, 35 the second night,” said Steve Dillon, who co-starred and co-produced.

But Sunday, there were less than a dozen in the audience.

Helios Care cancelled their annual Epicurean Festival, their largest annual fundraiser, where they were set to honor Lola Rathbone, retired president and CEO. “We made the decision even before the guidance got more explicit,” said Dan Ayers, CEO. “As a healthcare provider, we need to take the lead in setting an example. Many of our donors are in a high-risk group, and taking care of our community is more important than raising money.”

The event, which brought in $70,000 last year, will be rescheduled, with a date pending. “We’re looking at late summer or early fall,” he said. “The event isn’t seasonally dependant, so we could hold it any time.”

Even more important, he said, is that he hopes the Coronavirus will have passed, but typical flu season will not yet have begun.

They are also evaluating other events, including the annual Daffodil Brunch, traditionally held the first weekend in May. “We can’t reschedule the blooming of the daffodils,” he said. “But the venue is beautiful, so we can reschedule there.”

At Foothills, Doyle said the staff is using the time they are closed wisely.

“We’re doing some projects we don’t normally do until summer,” said Doyle.

“Deep cleaning, organizing, putting our nose to the grindstone to get caught up on things that we normally wouldn’t do until August.”

Food Banks Expect Spike In Demand NEEDY/From A1 feeding ministries.

“So many people are one disaster away from food insecurity,” she said. “A lot of people are losing paychecks, and they may have a little saved away, but in a couple of weeks, that rainy day fund runs dry.”

But when their clients need them – even just as a stop gap until work starts again – the food pantries of Otsego County are ready to step up.

“We’re encouraging people to come get food,” said Polly Renckens, director, Richfield Springs Food Pantry. “We have it to give, so don’t be shy.”

Clients at the Richfield Springs Food Pantry can get one box a week. “All they have to do is register at the door,” she said. “It’s just name, address and number of people in your family.”

“We ask people if they are allergic to peanut butter, fish or pork,” said Joyce Mason, who runs the Lord’s Table food pantry and feeding ministry at St. James Episcopal Church in Oneonta. “Right now, we’re giving a lot of things to help stretch their meals, like

bags of beans and lentils.”

The Lord’s Table serves 10-15 households at the pantry.

“We’ve been busy over the last few days,” said Julia Perdue, director, Cooperstown Food Pantry. “We’re seeing people come in from the Northern part of the county, but we’ll serve anybody at least once.”

Perdue said that while there is plenty of food to go around, they are facing a shortage of bread and fresh produce. “Ours comes from Price Chopper, and they’re running low themselves,” she said. “We normally let our clients come in once a week for that, but now, we have to limit it to once a month.”

All food pantries, however, have changed the way they’re distributing food, opting to create food boxes for clients, rather than allowing clients to “shop” their shelves.

“We meet the clients at the door and go over a checklist of what we have, then we get it for them,” said Purdue. “We bring the boxes out on a metal cart, they pick it up and take it to their car, and then we disinfect the cart. We want to minimize contact as much as possible.”

Things WILL get better…

Here’s to a great summer, Otsego County!

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For 212 Years

THURSDAY, mARCH 19, 2020

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

In Oneonta, Main Street Stores Innovating With Hotline, Protocol, Testing Kits

Bassett Taking Hold Of C-19 Threat

MERCHANTS/From A1 preparing to be hunkered in.”

Many stores, including the Green Toad and Serenity Hobbies, are updating their offerings on their website.

Elizabeth Raphaelson, Underground Attic, has always maintained a store Instagram page, where she posted photos of new merchandise and took online orders. “I’m closing for a bit and doing online only,” she said. “I want my business to succeed, of course, but I also want to protect public health.”

Though she had a “busy” weekend, she made active efforts to keep the store clean, including wiping down door handles, her iPad and the counter after every customer, as well as frequent use of hand sanitizer.

“One of my concerns was with shipping,” she said.

“The virus can last up to three days on surfaces.”

But she came up with a solution – a one-day delay on packing, with two day shipping so orders arrive safely. “I’m only going to the post office twice a week,” she said. Roberts has said he will personally deliver board games to anyone who calls in an order.

Though Governor Cuomo ordered all bars and restaurants closed to dine-in after 8 p.m. on Monday, March 16, businesses like Wise Guys Sammy’s were already preparing for the majority of their business to be take-out and delivery.

“The locals have been

BASSETT/From A1 slowly,” reported county Board Chair Dave Bliss, R-Cooperstown/Town of Middlefield, who has been attending the task force meetings morning and afternoon for the past few days.

Streck “said he would not be surprised if some of them do come back positive,” said Bliss.

Still, Bliss and Task Force Chairman Allen Ruffles said, The Freeman’s Journal & HOMETOWN ONEONTA the hospital chief believes, “Things are going as well as Emily Additon checks supplies in the room can be expected.”

Copy Shop Plus in Cooperstown has set aside As of press-time, no cases for college students who need wi-fi to do their of Coronavirus had surfaced assignments while home. in Otsego County, Bliss said. supportive,” said Mike that the kids who are home A Herkimer County case was Joubert, owner. “We usually from school are able to eat too. being treated in Cooperstown. see a decline when the “A lot of kids only get Streck was meeting with students leave, but we’re lunch at school, and it would the task force four days after not hitting quite as low as be nice if we could do somecalling a press conference at we usually would. In times thing about it,” said Freddy.

Bassett Hall, where he and of crisis, it’s important to “Kids and seniors can come three of his lieutenants, Drs. support local businesses.” in and get a slice and a soda, Bill LeCates, Bassett Hospital With kids home from free of charge.” president; Steven Heneghan, school and budgets tight, he’s “I didn’t come from clinical director, and Charles offering a series of family means, so I know what it’s Hyman, infectious disease meal deals, such as a pizza, a like to go hungry,” said specialist, outlined Bassett’s dozen wings and a salad for Aleathea. “No kid should $30. “Normally that’s $40,” have to go through that.” he said. “But we want to make Looking forward, it affordable for people to eat.

Raphaelson is working with 50 PERCENT/From A1 It’s always nice to get a pizza, other downtown businesses said, because of the size of even when money is tight.” to coordinate a recovery the village’s workforce, only And he kept his trademark effort. “One of the things “One or two” employees will sense of humor about it, we’ve talked about doing be sent home. offering a $2 Corona special is a ‘Downtown Recovery “We’re required to do this,” throughout the weekend. “We Week,’” she said. “Like Small said county board Chairman want to keep people in good Business Saturday, with David Bliss, R-Cooperstown/ spirits,” he said. events and sales. It could be Town of Middlefield. “We’re At Nina’s Pizzeria, Freddy a great boost, even with the not making it up on own. and Aleathea want to make sure college students gone.”

Every county in the state is doing the same thing.” He added, “the health and safety of our employees and citizens is our top priority.”

Lake and Pines Motel.

COOPERSTOWN – In Baseball Town’s In Oneonta, Mayor Gary downtown, merchants are also trying to In the downtown, some restaurants, like Herzig said “our focus right connect with customers in the new, chalBrian Wrubleski’s Mel’s at 22, are doing now is keeping people safe. lenging environment. takeout. The Doubleday Cafe is closed for Party of that will be to reduce “Some are closing, some, like Kate’s the next two weeks. our workforce, to protect our Upstate, are doing by appointment only,” said At Copy Shop Plus in Cooperstown, employees.”

Tara Burke, executive director, Cooperstown Emily Additon, manager, has opened up a Following a Tuesday Chamber of Commerce. “We’re also encourroom, complete with wi-fi, for students in meeting of the county’s aging people to buy gift cards online to use at rural areas, such as Roseboom and Hartwick Emergency Task Force, a later date to help support these businesses.”

Seminary, which may not have wi-fi.

Bliss and task force The Chamber had to postpone several of “They can use it for however long they Chairman Allen Ruffles gave their events, including their annual Get to need,” she said. The room will be open particulars.

Know Cooperstown and their Business Hall 24/7, but reservations are required. Call Starting on the 18th, 197 of Fame, where they were set to honor the (607) 547-5150, (607) 242-8726.

protocol for tackling the disease.

The entrypoint for treatment, they said, was a newly established hotline, (607) 547-5555, that everyone with a cough, fever and other symptoms should call.

People will be reassured, or assigned to receive a swab test. Those results may lead to further evaluation.

Bliss and Ruffles said many of those evaluations may be in people’s homes, via tele-medicine.

The idea is to keep people who may be infected out of the hospital, where they may spread the disease. To protect against that, on Monday Bassett also banned visitors.

Meanwhile, the hotline took off: More than 500 people called on Monday alone.

No numbers were available for Tuesday, but over the weekend, 200 people called on Saturday; 400 on Sunday.

“There is clearly a lot of demand for that phone line,” said Karen Huxtable-Hooker,

Bassett spokesman.

As of Tuesday, more than 1,500 people in New York State had tested positive for the virus, up from 950 the day before; 814 of the cases were in the city. Twelve people have died from the virus in New York State, including at least seven in New York City.

About 20 percent of Bassett hotline callers are simply anxious and seeking information.

The majority of the calls are people with cold symptoms who are concerned they might have the virus.

Staff questions each caller to determine their risk level, and if deemed necessary, they give them an appointment to go to one of the screening tents that have been set up at Bassett facilities.

Flu tests can be processed

by Basssett, but COVID 19 tests are sent to outside labs.

Huxtable-Hooker could not give statistics for how many COVID 19 tests were done.

Governments Send 50% Of Staff Home

Cooperstown Merchants Adapting, Too

Main St., Coopertown, The Meadows in the Town of Middlefield, and Old City Hall in Oneonta will be open to the public “by appointment only.”

People who cannot connect by phone should dial 211, and will be directed by an operator to the right person.

The DMV office in Cooperstown will be available only to auto dealers; the Oneonta DMV office will close completely.

In Oneonta, Herzig said a decision on “all non-essential services” would be made at Common Council’s Tuesday.

“We will allow as many staff as possible to work from home,” he said.

A number of Oneonta Public Transport routes are being eliminated for now as part of this, Herzig said.

“However, if somebody urgently needs to get someplace, they will be able to dial,

and we will come and get them.” Many transactions will City Hall will be done by mail, for the time being, he said.

Emergencies will be handled. For instance, the Department of Public Works may not be filling potholes, but it a water main breaks, city crews will fix it.

In Cooperstown, Tillapaugh said she has been participating daily in conference calls with Samantha Madison, the governor’s regional representative, where she learned about the 50percent reduction mandate.

She and Village Administrator Teri Barown have been discussing implementation, and they are looking to identify employees who are candidates for “selfisolation,” working from home. Any employees sent home will receive full salary and benefits.

607-547-5555

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Perspectives

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL EDITORIAL

SOUTH KOREA DID IT; WE CAN, TOO

Your Favorite Business Needs You To Survive

Rah, Team! Beat Coronavirus! S T here’s been a lot of great reporting, nationally, regionally and from local newspapers and TV, but this one was particularly helpful in helping we Otsego County folks sort out the crisis we find ourselves in.

The Wall Street Journal over the weekend contrasted how South Korea and Italy responded to the coronavirus arrival “South Korea’s known infections are now stabilizing at about 8,000, whereas Italy’s are rising relentlessly past 17,000,” reported Timothy W. Martin from Seoul and Marcus Walker from Rome. As of last Friday, there were 67 deaths

►STRAIGHTENING OUT THE CURVE

From The Economist With CDC Data

in South Korea; Italy’s tally was 1,266, “far higher.”

• Part of this is cultural.

Confucianism gives the state a freer hand “to intrude in people’s lives,” Tufts Professor Lee Sung-yoon was quoted saying. It puts “the good of the nation above individualism.”

It’s another story in “easygoing Italy.” The World Health Organization’s Gary Slutkin, an epidemiologist, said, “There’s a premium in the individualistic Western mind to be defiant.”

In the U.S., of course, both human traits are evident, from the current Presidential campaign to our

ure, local governments and school districts can close local neighbors: glorificatheir doors and send thoution of liberty on one hand, sands of employees home concerns about government Friday, March 13 – tax control on the other. revenues will ensure they The other part was prac- get paid. ticality, allied with forceful Private enterprise is difaction. ferent. Your favorite diner Tracing the initial infesor restaurant. That lively tation to the Shincheonji boutique or gift shop. They Church of Jesus, the govneed your continuing supernment quickly tested all port – in many cases, to 100,000 church members, simply survive. and is now conducting Same goes for local 15,000 tests daily, with diag- institutions we rely on. The noses within six hours.

Catskill Symphony OrchesItaly has 20,000 more tra had to cancel its Cabaret people, and is only carrying Concert Saturday, March 14, out 3,000 tests a day. at SUNY’s Dewar Arena.

• Last year, that concert Here’s the very good raised $47,000. Helios Care news. delayed its March 29 EpiSouth Korea “accepted” curean Festival to the fall, Please See EDITORIAL, A5 forgoing $70,000 for now.

Click on the “Coronavirus Cancellations” icon on www.AllOTSEGO.com, and you’ll feel wistful not only about the fun delayed, but the support lost by our many cultural institutions.

If no one’s moving around, buying things or doing things, it won’t be long before our local economy will begin shedding staff. It’s simply addition and subtraction, P&L. So, as individuals, let’s do what we can. Order takeout from local restaurants.

Don’t wait to up your memberships to local institutions and organizations. Stay 6 feet away from the nearest fellow shopper, but don’t abandon local business to amazon.com.

It matters. Even for the longterm health of our schools.

LETTERS

TENDING THEIR FLOCKS

It’s Right To Close Schools; Dreams Park Must Be Next To the Editor: Schools are the absolute best places to transmit airborne diseases, almost as effective as cruise ships.

In the average size high school, there are over 750,000 contacts a day at less than 10 feet that can potentially transmit an airborne disease such as the flu or COVID-19. And that does not include making out behind the stadium.

The fact that children don’t get as sick as adults with COVID-19 makes them ideal transmitters of the disease. To gramps and granny.

So closing the schools is step one in fighting the spread of airborne diseases.

Good on Cooperstown Central, the Hall of Fame

and the Clark Sports Center for shutting down or limiting access. Cooperstown should be where epidemics, not people, go to die.

Step 2 is closing down any other large gathering place of kids, such as the Dreams Park.

If COVID 19 is not under control by May, the Dreams Park should not be allowed to open in June.

The vulnerability, the potential weak link in any pandemic are the hospitals. They have to be protected at all costs.

Bassett has to be protected.

And the best way to protect Bassett is to avoid over-burdening it with sick tourists from around the world.

CHIP NORTHRUP Cooperstown

Let’s Focus On Most Vulnerable

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Other than the aforementioned resolve, treat this virus as you would a serious flu and work on producing vaccines. It is no longer survival of the fittest, it is now survival of the most unfit.

If the bar was a limbo bar it would be set so high as to be over most people’s head.

Should the virus mutate and become more serious, then let us cross that bridge if we should come to it.

GERRY WELCH Cooperstown

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To the Editor: In the case of the Coronavirus, governments are opening a multi-front war by initiating massive quarantines that are inadvertently weakening the entire system.

Suggestion: Governments focus attention on protecting the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

Do not, however, defeat the economic support system that feeds and supports us by not allowing life to continue as close to normal as possible.

For 212 Years

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James C. Kevlin Editor & Publisher

Tara Barnwell

Advertising Director & General Manager

Libby Cudmore

Managing Editor

Larissa Ryan Business Manager

Thom Rhodes Advertising Consultant

Elizabeth Cooper Correspondent

Ian Austin Photographer

Ivan Potocnik Web Architect

Kathleen Peters Graphics & Production

Tom Heitz Consultant

Amanda Wilsey Consultant

IN MEMORIAM: Mary Joan Kevlin, Co-Publisher, 2006-17 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR Otsego County • Village of Milford • Town of Middlefield Cooperstown Central School District Subscriptions Rates: Otsego County, $48 a year. All other areas, $65 a year.

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E-mail: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc.

Protect Over-60 Members Who Are At Highest Risk Editor’s Note: Here are instructions to local Lutherans from Bishop John S. Macholz of the Upstate New York Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church.

that we have the imperative of both to act responsibly for the well-being of the Church. The rapid spread of COVID-19 requires that we act. Some may see these measures as drastic. n Luke, Jesus I consider them calls his followers prudent. to be as innocent Many of our as doves and as wise members at the as serpents. It is now Sunday liturgy time for us to be wise are age 60 and as we follow the One older. People in who brings hope and this age group healing to our lives JOHN S. have been desand world.

MACHOLZ ignated as perI am announcing sons at higher the cessation of “in risk, as well as person” worship in this synod beginning March those who are vulnerable for health reasons. It is our 15 and continuing for at responsibility to care for least three weeks through them and for all our memTuesday, March 31. At that bers in every possible way. point in time, we will reasThis is one of those ways. sess and make additional Continuing to gather only recommendations if needed. gives the virus increased I recognize that I do opportunity to grow and not have the authority of spread. We have the ability Scripture or constitution Please See LUTHERAN, A6 to do this but I do believe

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NICK LOMANGINA, Schenevus

Catholics Should Pitch In To Flatten Disease’s Curve Editor’s Note: Here are the latest instructions to Roman Catholics from Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger of the Albany Diocese.

only by close family and in accordance with social distancing and capacity requirements. Further restrictions may force a change in those guidelines as we go forward.

Due to grow“Although we ing concerns and know how difficult medical advice it is for Catholics to related to the rapid be without the Mass spread of COand without the EuVID-19 in social charist, we must do settings, Bishop our part to help ‘flatScharfenberger ten the curve’ and has announced stop the spread of that all regularly COVID-19 in order scheduled public EDWARD B. SCHARFENBERGER to protect the most Masses in the vulnerable among Roman Catholic us,” Bishop Scharfenberger Diocese of Albany – exsaid when making the cept weddings and funerannouncement. “I encourage als – will be canceled until the faithful to pray and fast further notice. Churches as we continue our journey will, however, remain open through this season of Lent. for private prayer, pending Try to include at least 15 further regulations.

In addition, all Confirma- minutes of daily intentional tions have been canceled un- prayer, with family where til further notice and will be possible and safe. Use the Bible, say the Rosary, watch rescheduled. Funerals and Please See CATHOLIC, A6 weddings may be attended

AllOTSEGO.com • MORE LETTERS, A6

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THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5

BOUND VOLUMES Compiled by Tom Heitz and SHARON STUART, with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library

200 YEARS AGO

Advertisement: Academy and Boarding School for Young Misses – The Rev. Mr. Molther, respectfully informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of Cooperstown and its vicinity, that after New Year’s Day, 1820, he intends to establish in this Village, an Academy and Boarding School for Young Misses. Aided by his eldest daughters, he proposes to give instruction in the following branches of learning: Reading, English Grammar, Writing, Orthography (or correct spelling put to practice), Arithmetic, Geography, Use of the Globes, Composition, History, Vocal and Instrumental Music on the Piano, the French language taught grammatically, Knitting and Plain and Artificial Needlework. Days of tuition from Monday to Friday inclusive. The terms of tuition, as well as of boarding, will be regulated by the customary terms of other teachers and boarding institutions of this neighborhood.

A few Young Gentlemen, between the age of six and thirteen years, may be admitted at school for the time being. Once a week, a catechetical in the principles of religion, will be given, without entering upon controversial tenets.

March 20, 1820

175 YEARS AGO

A Terrible Operation – The Lowell Advertiser speaks of a terrible surgical operation at the Massachusetts General Hospital performed by Doctor Warren – No less than the complete removal from the head of nearly one-half of the upper jaw; that is from the mouth to the ear. The skin and flesh of the cheek were first turned up over the eye and then the separation was effected by saws and the use of the chisel and mallet. The whole occupied an hour and a half, and the unfortunate patient bore it with firmness. He is an elderly man (not robust) from the eastern part of Maine. A brother is one of the wealthiest and worthiest merchants. The disease is cancer. Dr. Warren is of the opinion that, though cancer may remain in the head, the sufferer will live several years longer than he otherwise would.

March 17, 1845

150 YEARS AGO

Attempting Jail Break – The Otsego

County Jail is notorious for its insecurity.

Of the three criminal cells, but one remains unbroken. Into this least insecure room, the Sheriff locked the two persons – John Kilpatrick and Geo. E. Hewitt – sentenced

by Judge Sturges to one year each in the State Prison. But, knowing the reputation of the jail, and having seen its weak points for the past two months, Sheriff Franklin made an early inspection on Friday morning last, when ascertained that by the aid of a small piece of iron and a portion of their bedstead these prisoners had (“Just for the fun of it!” they said) made a hole in the partition wall large enough to crawl through, had concealed the dirt and bricks under their bed, and the hole with a portion of their bedding, expecting the next night to work their way out. The Sheriff felt constrained to put irons on these industrious lovers of liberty, and justified in putting the county to the expense of a watchman for a few nights.

March 17, 1870

100 YEARS AGO

75 YEARS AGO

After one of the most severe winters in years Spring is here. She came early on the morning of Tuesday, March 20. Spring found the snow, which had been piled high everywhere, practically gone and everything ready for fixing the lawns, housecleaning and the like. Farmers say there is no frost in the ground which ought to mean good crops. Winter sometimes plays a trick on Spring and runs back for a last blast after supposedly saying goodbye. Maybe it will

Mike Phillips, a senior at Cooperstown Central School, was voted the Outstanding Wrestler in the Eighth Annual New York State Intersectional Wrestling Tournament in Syracuse on Saturday night after he had captured the 215-pound class individual championship in leading Section III to its first-ever victory in the state tourney.

Philips, the overpowering Cooperstown youngster was the darling of the crowd of 5,500 which turned out at the War Memorial for the tournament finals. The raw-boned strong-boy, who was a star tackle on the Cooperstown Central School football team, is being recruited as a football player by Cornell, Notre Dame and Syracuse universities.

March 18, 1970

25 YEARS AGO

125 YEARS AGO

Local: Dr. D.E. Siver commenced the practice of Dentistry in Cooperstown thirty years ago last Monday. For a few years he also manufactured artificial teeth which interest he afterwards sold out. Cooperstown has always been noted for its superior dentistry.

We are glad to learn that the Gymnasium is very well patronized this spring by ladies and gentlemen.

On Wednesday evening of next week, Rev. B.P. Ripley will deliver his lecture “Concerning Girls” at Mt. Vision by invitation of the W.C.T.U. of that place.

The Presbyterian Sunday School has a sleigh ride Sunday afternoon.

March 21, 1895

50 YEARS AGO

March 24, 1920 be so this year.

Sgt. Ralph Reid Birdsall, who has been in the European War theatre for some time, has been spending a brief furlough with his mother, Mrs. H.S. Leverich, at the Tunnicliff Inn. He was accompanied

by Mrs. Birdsall who is now making her home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John F. Thompson at New Canaan, Connecticut.

Sgt. Birdsall left Friday of last week for Officer Candidate School. He spoke briefly at the meeting of the Cooperstown Rotary Club.

March 21, 1945

Paula Diperna, author and film producer from Cooperstown, recently spoke at the World Summit for Social Development.

The summit took up foreign assistance and jobs creation. “The summit focused on how best to use foreign assistance for the alleviation of poverty, as well as the need to consider unemployment as a global problem, particularly the phenomena of jobless economic growth. “There is a lot of concern that as productivity increases, workers are nevertheless permanently laid off. Thus, who is truly benefitting from the productivity increase? Also, many Americans would be surprised to learn that the United States ranks twenty-first, far below most developed countries in its foreign aid program taken as a percentage of GNP. Our foreign assistance is only about one percent of our federal budget.

March 19, 1995

10 YEARS AGO

In the largest turnout in memory and by a clear majority, Cooperstown voters Tuesday, March 16, elected Village Trustee Joseph J. Booan, Jr., a top BOCES administrator, as mayor. The tally was 431 votes for Republican Booan to 329 for Democrat Jeff Katz, the deputy mayor. But words of conciliation were heard from both men after a hard-fought campaign.

March 18, 2010

EDITORIAL: South Korea Example Suggests Firm Measures Will Work Here EDITORIAL/From A4 by mid-February that Coronavirus had arrived. With its full-court press, the infestation peaked on Feb. 29.

That means, Coronavirus (COVID-19) is beatable. It’s still early for us: The first case in the U.S. was identified only on March 5.

President Trump’s declaration Friday of a National Emergency, following Governor Cuomo’s

declaration the weekend before and county board Chairman Dave Bliss’s subsequent one, are essential steps in the right direction.

Widespread closures – locally and everywhere else – that followed over the weekend signal the message has been heard.

• The widely distributed graphic that accompanies this editorial il-

lustrates the current challenge: If Coronavirus spikes (the red part), medical facilities will be overwhelmed. If the curve can be flattened (the blue part), Coronavirus can be handled more routinely.

Managed away, if you will.

Perhaps that can’t happen as quickly as in South Korea. The U.S. has 320 million people to South Korea’s 51 million, and

spread over a much larger area.

While we get there, let’s handle the temporary restrictions as we generally have, with calm and a sense of responsibility to our neighbors, and the nation at large.

Locally, it was particularly heartening to hear from Bassett Healthcare President/CEO Bill Streck at that Friday, March 13, press conference: A team has

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

Historical Data Say This Could Be ‘Worst’

A

ccording to the CDC, from Oct. 1, 2019, through March 7, 2020, an estimated 20,000 to 50,000 Americans died from seasonal flu-related illnesses. That’s out of 36 million to 51 million total flu illnesses.

It appears that seasonal flu vaccines have mitigated the numbers, as have some people’s immunity, as well as having fully staffed and equipped medical facilities at the ready.

Larger numbers are attached to the corona virus.

The CDC says between 160 million and 214 million people Americans may be infected, and the U.S. epidemic could last for months.

Using the CDC base, other experts say as many as 200,000 to 1.7 million LARRY people could die. Compared BENNETT to seasonal flu, we have no vaccine, we are still short on tests, and it’s widely agreed we’ll run short of hospital facilities, equipment and medical staff.

While some say 200,000 to 1.7 million deaths is a worst-case scenario, no one can prove that.

In the Civil War, 620,000 Americans perished. Two thirds of the deaths were to disease and one of the biggest killers was “the ague,” which was almost certainly the flu but wasn’t yet called that.

WWI saw the deaths of 116,000 U.S. servicemen, and 63,000 of them died in the 1918 Spanish Flu epidemic. In fact, that epidemic was the single most lethal event in American history up to that time. According to the CDC, it was responsible for

675,000 total American deaths.

By comparison, WWII killed 418,000 Americans – military and civilian combined. The Korean War took 33,000 American lives. Vietnam claimed 58,000 American lives. In single event catastrophes, the Japanese sneak attack on Pearl Harbor took 2,403 American lives. The 9/11 terrorist attacks had 2,977 fatalities.

• Back to today: Researchers say the Coronavirus is as transmissible as the Spanish Flu, while a bit less physically severe. But it’s also is higher in transmissibility and severity than any other flu virus since the Spanish Flu. This could become the single deadliest assault on American sover eignty in our 243-year history.

That’s why preparedness for a worst-case scenario was so important. That’s what the CDC was for, before it was politicized by the Trump Administration. That’s what the White House pandemic response team was for, before it was fired by John Bolton in 2018.

As the Coronavirus spread around the world, the Trump Administration misrepresented its severity, stonewalled the facts, and stuck its head in the sand for two months. Trump himself was a fountain of misinformation about what was happening and, even worse, what could happen.

He hobbled the CDC early on, then classified CDC public health information. He talked about the virus being utterly unimportant. Finally, his recent public pronouncements acknowledg-

ing the danger felt so off-kilter that he seems to be speaking from some strange Twilight Zone dream state.

His mistakes and lies regarding the pandemic are endless. In the beginning they seemed to be about protecting the stock market and his re-electability. But they now seem different.

They seem to be the mistakes of someone so far in over his head that he can only flail about, grasping for anything to hang onto to keep from drowning.

(Anyone with lifesaving training can tell that’s the most dangerous person to try to save, because he will mindlessly drown you in attempting to save himself.)

So here we are: our putative national leader, President Trump, failed to prepare for a worst-case health scenario. He then denied the facts about the pending disaster to prop up his own interests. He continued to deny facts pouring in from experts around the world. He finally acknowledged the crisis four to eight weeks too late to mount a strong offense against it. Instead, he left the entire nation playing defense because of his continuing ineptitude.

This may yet make Pearl Harbor, 9/11, and even WWII look like walks in the park. Make no mistake, many thousands of avoidable deaths will be directly attributable to Trump. More Americans may die unnecessarily on his watch than any other president.

Trump will again say, “I’m not responsible.” And that is so true.

Larry Bennett, recently retired Brewery Ommegang creative director who is active in local causes, lives in East Merideth.

been in place in the Cooperstown hospital since mid-January, only two weeks after China notified the WHO of the Wuhan outbreak, preparing for an eventuality that is now a reality.

Well done.

Let’s not be Pollyannas, but let’s look ahead with confidence that this too shall pass – sooner or later. Preferably sooner.

LETTERS

‘Right To Bear Arms,’ An ‘Unalienable’ Part Of U.S. Constitution To the Editor: It seems writing this out shouldn’t be necessary.

2AS, spelled out is “Second Amendment Sanctuary.” The word “sanctuary” meaning a place of safety, refuge and protection. The Second Amendment is one of 10 listed “unalienable” Rights written in our Constitutional Law. So, put together, it is a cause of protecting and safeguarding an American Right.

So where is the problem?

Perhaps a proper start is identifying that the origin of the Bill of Rights are grounded on the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration lists 27 transgressions of Great Britain against the Colonies. These transgressions manifested by virtue of violating basic rights of the people. As the Declaration states, “…that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights”…” That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

Therein lies the necessity of the Bill of Rights. Rights which function as what government is prohibited to violate.

If there is ever a word

►IF YOU GO: Otesgo County Second Amendment Sanctuary Rally, 2 p.m., Sunday, March 22, VFW ost 1417, 314 Ellis road, Laurens.

among all written within the Constitution, I cannot imagine any more actively ignored than “infringed”.

Taken straight from the Merriam-Webster dictionary; “to encroach upon in a way that violates law or the rights of another.”

Enter now the nonstop obsession toward “gun control” laws. By their very definition, manifest as infringements. For decades, we have, as a people, generally permitted various gun control laws. But over the past few years in particular, it seems like the sun cannot set without some other invented form of gun regulation or prohibition.

The straw that broke the camel’s back has been the proposed draconian prohibitions, bans and ever more gun controls in the state of Virginia. This was compounded by various federal government politicians who removed their masks and called for outright gun bans.

Further, Governor Cuomo Please See deBLIECK, A6

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL

Lutheran Churches Shut LUTHERAN/From A4 to slow this spread. This is, in my pastoral opinion, the time act.

I am in continuing contact with the Churchwide office in Chicago and the Governor’s office in the state of New York. We will continue to seek their advice and counsel in this regard.

In the meantime, remember this: we are not closing down congregations. We are seeking new ways to be in ministry with one another. We are working on resources for use at home, some have already been posted to the synod website and on Facebook. The synod website will be continually updated and include information on COVID-19 as it becomes available. In addition, making use of Facebook and Instagram Live can provide an opportunity for continuing contact for some.

A simple phone call on a regular basis to those most isolated will be an important ministerial tool and a welcome gift. To paraphrase Presiding Bishop Eaton’s words, “we are practicing physical distancing, not social distancing.”

I am deeply grateful for technology that allows us to work remotely, which many of us will do moving forward. It adds another level of distancing ourselves from the source.

Please also note that during these times Church Staff (Administrative Support Staff, Sexton, Musicians and the Pastor’s) will continue to work in connecting with their faith communities and the local authorities to remain current with realities and progress, as well as planning for the future.

It is important; therefore, that we continue to pay salaries and provide insurance for staff members.

It is also good stewardship that we find alternative ways to give our regular offering to the church.

There will be an article on the web site that may prove useful for you.

As we move forward as the Church Together please know that I will continue to hold you and our shared ministry in prayer and in hope. We shall weather this storm and come out on the other side stronger, more compassionate, more knowledgeable and more resilient about ministry in these trying times. This will be an opportunity for us to grow and discover. May it be so among us.

Catholics May Miss Mass CATHOLIC/From A4 Mass on TV, and please remember to pray for those who are suffering from the Coronavirus worldwide and for all those in the medical community who are on the front lines.”

The Diocese of Albany is keeping Catholics apprised of changes, updates and resources on its dedicated web page: rcda.org/coronavirus. In addition, a Faith at Home page includes links to livestreamed Mass, daily Scripture readings, saints of the day, and suggestions for creating a sacred space at home: rcda.org/coronavirus/resources.

LETTERS

CGP Helps Guardsmen Protect Historic Resources To the Editor: Earlier this month, the Cooperstown community welcomed a group of soldiers from the 403rd Civil Affairs battalion for their monthly training. The visit is part of an ongoing partnership between this unit and SUNY Oneonta’s Cooperstown Graduate Program.

CGP students develop a program about the protection of cultural heritage (think of the Monuments Men during World War II), and the soldiers learn about museum collections and visit the Hall of Fame as well as training with the 42nd

Combat Aviation Brigade from the New York Army National Guard, which brings Blackhawk helicopters.

Both the soldiers and CGP students and recent graduates participate in a scenario that requires them to think on their feet about how to care for museum collections in times of conflict.

This training event requires numerous collaborations, and we would like to thank the Clark Sports Center, National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Bassett Healthcare, Clark Estates and Jane Forbes Clark for the use of facili-

ties; members of the Cooperstown Fire Department for preparing hot food at the end of a cold day; John Odell for sharing his knowledge of baseball’s tangible history; and the CGP students who lent their enthusiasm and creativity to make the exercise a success.

We are happy that our community is able to share its many resources with those who serve our country.

CINDY FALK Professor, CGP, SUNY Oneonta DAN CROWELL Major, Army Reserves

Second Amendment Not About Guns, But Balance Of Power deBLIECK/From A5 has in mind yet another chain of regulations and prohibitions. The Bill of Rights be damned. We, of 2AS, stand united claiming, “Enough Is Enough!”

There seems so much that the “antigunners” do not understand concerning the function of the Second Amendment.

One prime example is the phrase “no sanctuary for guns”. And another manifested as a statement decrying America embracing a “gun culture.” Whether these people were misinformed or deliberately deceived, they are clearly embracing what the Right isn’t.

This may come as a surprise to some, but the foundation of the Second

Amendment is NOT about guns. It is about ensuring a balance of power “to the security of a free State.” Thomas Paine expressed it in this way, “The balance of power is the scale of peace. The same balance would be preserved were all the world destitute in arms, for all would be alike; but since some will not, others dare not lay them aside.”

In other words, if all firearms on this earth were to evaporate into thin air, would we still need a Second Amendment? The answer is yes, because arms of other forms (axes, knives…etc) remain. Imbalances of power can still exist. Human history is filled with examples where oppression, ages before

any firearm came into existence, could have been avoided.

But firearms exist in the modern world. Therefore, a balance of power can only be achieved by virtue of equal firearm possession between the governing and the governed. This is less a “culture” than it is a free civilization necessity. Supporting gun bans will not make the guns disappear. Rather it creates a power imbalance. “Peace” exists only at the pleasure of the powerful. History teaches this a fool’s errand.

GARRETT deBLIECK Unadilla

Flippant Headline On Serious Topic To The Editor: I find it unruly that Tom Morgan would headline his column (“Nothing to Fear but Flu Itself”) attached to the coattails of Franklin Delano Roosevelt (a man crippled by the polio virus and consistently polled as one of America’s five greatest Presidents) in an attempt to attract reader attention to a very deadly and communicable virus and at the same time disparaging legitimate responses to it.

Mr. Morgan tritely lures his reader into believing coronavirus is the culprit in a massive statistical death toll only to reveal, alas, he is referring to the common flu virus. Point made, if only to assuage the fears of everyone who

has to deal with this other unknown killer but no, his real emphasis is to blame the media for hyping this national emergency for the sake of advertising dollars. Really, Mr. Morgan – the cheap shot ‘blame-game’ for something this serious?

Perhaps Mr. Morgan should confine his pat beliefs within the purview of which he proclaims to know (finance) and leave the spheres of medicine and journalism to those who do know.

TIMOTHY GIBSON Oneonta Editor’s Note: Mea culpa. The editor – identified in masthead on Page 4 – actually writes the headlines.

Sorry, Tim and Tom.

You Read It HeRe FIRst!

OtsegO COunty’s Daily newspaper/online ►join

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subscribe to the Freeman’s journal and get full web access $69 per year. call larissa at 607-547-6103 to get started.

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OTSEGO.life PAGE B-1

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020

ELPING A

N

ORLD IN

EED

Sue Jones, right, and Brent Leonard, speak with the water committee in Las Mercedes, where they checked in on the water filtration system the Living Waters team from Cooperstown installed in 2019, as well as assisted with other projects.

what’s fun

in Otsego County

BEST BETS

Childrens author Mo Willems is hosting “Lunch Doodles”, an online daily drawing class, to keep families entertained during the quarantine.

Learn To Draw, Enjoy The Opera Or Walk in Nature

photos courtesy Pam Lea, Living Waters Team member

Cooperstown Living Waters Team Visits Plant, Builds Chicken Coop

By LIBBY CUDMORE COOPERSTOWN

Neighbors and the living Waters crew helped build a village chicken coop to provide eggs to eat and sell to raise money for the school.

I

t’s easy to take clean water for granted in Upstate New York, but Susan Jones knows that’s not so everywhere.

“In Honduras, most of the water comes from mountain springs fed through plastic pipes,” said Jones.

“But it’s often contaminated from wildlife and cattle, so people are drinking raw, not treated water.”

Jones, who has headed up the First Presbyterian Church’s chapter of the Living Waters for the World program, recently returned from the latest Please See WATERS, B3

Rabbit Goody, Thistle Hill Weavers, donated the money to buy this loom for the women of Las Mercedes, Honduras.

As Eastern Region director for the American Council of Snowmobile Associations, Bob Moshier helps keep interest in Trailmakers and other vintage snowmobiles alive.

MOSHIER REPRESENTS NATIONAL CLUB

Richfield Man Keeps Antique Trailmakers In The Public Sphere

By JIM KEVLIN RICHFIELD SPRINGS

I

n the early 1960s, as Bob Moshier tells it, if you bought three snowmobiles, you qualified to be a dealer.

Looking for a year ’round use for the family’s Otsego

Lake marina just north of the Otsego-Springfield town line, William Thayer picked up three Trailmakers.

“The first time someone passed Willie on a Ski-Doo, he bought a Ski-Doo,” said Moshier.

The three Trailmakers – one unused – sat in the back of a barn on property that’s now part of the Biological Please See SNOWSLEDS, B3

AllOTSEGO.life

J

ust because you’re cooped up doesn’t mean you have to be bored!

There’s so much more than Netflix, including drawing lessons, museum tours and opera to enjoy for free.

• “Elephant and Piggie” creator Mo Willems hosts “Lunch Doodles,” a daily online writing and drawing class. 1 p.m. daily, LIBBY www.kennedy-center. org/education/mo-willems/ CUDMORE • The Huntington Memorial Library will read books, sing songs and perform fingerplays to keep homebound kids ages 2-5 entertained. 10 a.m. daily. www.facebook. com/hmloneonta/ • Julie Hart and the DelawareOtsego Audubon host a virtual talk on the history and importance of the third Breeding Bird Atlas. 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 20, www.facebook. com/DelawareOtsegoAudubonSociety/ • The Metropolitan Opera has pulled from their archives to stream a different performance each day for free. Titles include “La Bohème,” “La Traviata,” “Eugene Onegin” and more. www.metopera.org • You can tour the Louvre in Paris, the Museum of Modern Art in NYC, The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and more without leaving your living room. Find a curated list of free virtual field trips at www.adventuresinfamilyhood.com/20virtual-field-trips-to-take-with-your-kids. html • And, of course, you’ll want to get out for some fresh air at some point; Glimmerglass State Park in Cooperstown and Table Rocks in Oneonta are both open for a hike to enjoy the solitude of nature.

Open until sundown daily.

Jim Kevlin/

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL • HOMETOWN ONEONTA

AllOTSEGO.com, WHERE OTSEGO COUNTY GOES FOR BREAKING NEWS

VISIT www.

_________ Send calendar items to info@allotsego.com

B-2

AllOTSEGO.life

what’s fun in OtsegO COunty _________

To our loyal calendar readers!

TEEN SCENE – 5:30 p.m.

Teens learn healthy coping mechanisms for stress from making stress balls to variety of exercises. Dinner provided, RSVP required by Friday in OtsegO before event. ElmCOunty Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St., Oneonta. 607-4320001 or visit https://familyrn. org/event/march-teen-scenehealthy-coping-skills/

Thursday Listing.

_______

Week after week we strive to give you the most up-to-date calendar items for your enjoyment. This week has been a fun challenge!

With phones ringing constantly and emails and faxes coming in, we’ve done our best to omit the events that have been cancelled due to Coronavirus. Bear with us and keep your events coming in the future!

►Thursday, March 19 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. Join library staff each morning for books, songs, & fingerplays to entertain kids ages 2-5. Huntington Memorial Library, Oneonta. www. facebook.com/hmloneonta/

what’s fun

►Tuesday, March 24 FUN HIKE – 10 a.m. Enjoy relaxing hike on Greenway Trail along Susquehanna River. Call Maureen Dresser for meet location. Oneonta.

607-286-9821.

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

►Wed., March 25 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

WELLNESS – 4 p.m. Group discussion focusing on emotional wellness. Teens are invited to talk out their stress, anxiety more. Oneonta Teen Center, 4 academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

►Monday, March 30 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

CLASSIC MOVIE – 3:30 p.m. Enjoy classic, timeless films with the group. Discussion to follow. Oneonta Teen Center, 4 Academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

►Tuesday, March 31 FUN HIKE – 10 a.m. Enjoy relaxing hike through Wilber Park Oneonta. Call Currie & Ginny Marror meet location.

607-432-5434 or visit http:// susqadk.org/node/4 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

►Wed., April 1

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

SOCCER REGISTRATION – All day. Final day for Oneonta residents to register children grades K-6 for Oneonta Soccer Cub. Cost, $30/child.

Wright National Soccer Campus, 35 Browne St., Oneonta.

E-mail bonnie.johnson@ oneontasoccerclub.org.

►Sunday, March 22

►Saturday, March 28

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

COFFEE HOUSE –7 - 9 p.m.

Music in range of genres by amateur local performers; light refreshments; all welcome. Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church. Church Rd., Schuyler Lake.

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

OPENING – 10 a.m. 4 p.m. Art Museum opens with exhibits ‘The World of Jan Brett,’ ‘Blue Gardens: Photographs by Gross and Daley,’ & ‘Prismatic Beauty: American People and American Art.’ The Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. 607547-1400. - Tentative ADAPTIVE SWIMMING – 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

EDD Adaptive sports presents adaptive swimming lessons for individuals with disabilities. Concludes with friendly races. Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown. 607-547-2800 (subject to weekly assessment) BOOK DISCUSSION – 12:30 p.m. Join Palatine Literary Society to discuss ‘Silas Marner: The Weaver of Raveloe’ by George Elliot. Bring a brown bag lunch, beverages provided. Canajoharie Library, 2 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie.

518-673-2314.

WELLNESS – 4 p.m.

Group discussion focusing on emotional wellness. Teen are invited to talk out their stress, anxiety more. Oneonta Teen Center, 4 academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

DISCUSSION – 6 p.m. Open discussion on School Final Budget. Library, Cooperstown High School. 607-547-8181

►Sunday, March 29

►Thursday, April 2

►Friday, March 20 DEADLINE – All day. Artists are invited to submit logos for 2020 PrideFest representing ‘Colors of Pride’ about diversity of identities, flags that represent them. 607-3861508.

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5.

See Thursday Listing.

BIRD ATLAS – 7:30 p.m.

Discussion of the third Breeding Bird Atlas with project coordinator Julie Hart and Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society. Shifting to virtual event. Visit www.facebook. com/DelawareOtsegoAudubonSociety/ for updates.

607-397-3815.

►Saturday, March 21

►Monday, March 23 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

CLASSIC MOVIE – 3:30 p.m. Enjoy classic, timeless films with the group. Discussion to follow. Oneonta Teen Center, 4 Academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

►Thursday, March 26 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

►Friday, March 27

MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See

MORNING PROGRAM – 10

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020 THE DOG CHARMER

Return Play To Rescued Pooch Hi Dog Charmer, I recently adopted a rescue dog who is very well behaved, affectionate, listens and responds well, has no “accidents” and has learned a few new tricks, but has two issues I don’t know what to do with: she does not know how to play, and she wants to be outdoors all the time.

If you try to play ball she will watch the ball go past her but not chase it. She doesn’t seem to know how to play with any toys.

She never picks up a stick, never carries anything in her mouth, and won’t play tug or squeak her toys, although she uses one stuffed animal as a pillow in her bed.

At the dog park she loves to TOM run with the other dogs but has SHELBY no interest in retrieving whatever they are chasing. She loves to be outdoors but when she is inside she just lies on her bed looking sad or nudges us to go out for another walk. (We take her out for four regular walks — about 6AM and then after lunch, late afternoon before supper, and before bedtime).

We do not have a good place for a dog run on our small lot. How can I help her have more fun?

ELLEN Vineyard Haven Dear Ellen, Affectionate, well behaved, no accidents, “ain’t bad”, when I consider that half of my 800 appointments a year were for real “problem” dogs. But I get where you’re coming from Ellen.

You’re obviously a dog lover and sensitive to your dog’s lack of enthusiasm for “play” in life. She seems depressed and it’s depressing you. Assuming that it’s not something medical, it seems clear that her perhaps deprived upbringing, did not include any of the usual play antics of most dogs.

You haven’t said how long you’ve a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

►Friday, April 3 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. Join library staff each morning for books, songs, & fingerplays to keep the kids 25 entertained. See Thursday Listing.

►Saturday, April 4 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

ARKELLEBRATION – Noon - 5 p.m. Celebrate opening of 2 exhibits ‘Garth Williams: Illustrator of the Century’ and ‘Winslow Homer: Illustrator’ featuring opportunities to chat with friendly docents on the artworks, storytime for

actually had her because I’ve seen adopted dogs take over two months till they became comfortable and trusting enough to relax and “come out” and start being themselves with play.

My own poodle, Paula Jean, hardly wagged her tail for two months after I adopted her at age two. So forget about the stick and the ball and try this.

Let her know you have a treat size piece of meat in your hand and tell her to sit and stay. If necessary have someone hold her on a leash as you back up, acting a little silly to keep her attention.

Then, with her seeing you do it, bend down and place the meat behind a chair leg, or whatever.

Then go back to her and with great enthusiasm tell her “Go Find!” as you release her.

If necessary, take her there on the leash, but don’t show her where it is, let her find it. She will.

With success building on success you’ll be able to tell her to stay, step into a nearby room, hide the little piece of meat, come back and tell her, “Go Find!” She’ll love the game.

I trained two of my dogs to find missing people, and when my kids were young and had friends over that was their favorite game.

Hide and seek with the kids hiding and the dog seeking. Ellen, it’s important that success builds on success, with her finding the meat treat before she loses interest because it’s taken to long to find.

Good luck and thank you for being an adopter.

DOG CHARMER Cooperstown author will be answering pet owners questions on training their dogs.

E-mail your questions to dogsrshelby@ msn.com

kids featuring books by Garth Williams, a scavenger hunt, games from Little House on the Prairie, Basket Raffle to support the libraries acquisition of new books. Free admission. Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie. 518673-2314 ext. 113.

►Sunday, April 5 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

►Monday, April 6 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

CLASSIC MOVIE – 3:30 p.m. Enjoy classic, timeless films with the group. Discussion to follow. Oneonta

AllOTSEGO.dining & entertainment WHILE OUR RESTAURANT IS CLOSED...

Carryout service is available from 11am-7pm Tuesday - Sunday.

Place orders via phone at 607-432-1782, at www.brooksbbq.com or the Brooks’ BBQ APP on your iPhone or Android.

45 Pioneer Street

607-547-8100 cooperstownwines.com HOURS: Tu-Th 11 - 7; Fri 11 - 8; Sa. 10 - 8; Su Noon - 7

Teen Center, 4 Academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

►Tuesday, April 7 MORNING PROGRAM – 10 a.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

BIRD WALK – 7 - 8:30 p.m. Walk with environmental educator Chris DeCesare & Otsego Land Trust’s Joe Homburger to observe spring mating of woodcocks. Waterproof footwear & headlamp/flashlight recommended. Parslow Road Conservation Area, 127 Parslow Rd., Hartwick. 607397-3815.

►Wednesday, April 8 WELLNESS – 4 p.m.

Group discussion focusing on emotional wellness. Teen are invited to talk out their stress, anxiety more. Oneonta Teen Center, 4 academy St., Oneonta. 607-433-2009.

►Saturday, April 11 EASTER BREAKFAST – 8:30 - 11 a.m. Enjoy delicious pancake breakfast with the Easter Bunny, send the kids on an Easter Egg Hunt, pose for photos, enjoy activities, more. Quality Inn, 5206 St. Hwy. 23, Oneonta. 607-4322941 or visit https://www. facebook.com/DestinationOneonta/ FOOD FOR THOUGHT – 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Bring the family for tour, story time, art activity celebrating works of children’s book author Jan Brett. Lunch included.

Cost, $23/adult. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown.

607-547-1400 or visit https://www.fenimoreart museum.org/

►Monday, April 13

% OFF 20 mixed cases of wine *

every day

* 750 ml sizes and larger.

new york pizzeria 2 large plain pizzas $25* Tax included! Toppings extra

75 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown · 607-547-2930 126 Main Street/ Rt 20, Richfield Springs · 315-858-0405 Not valid w/other offers • 1 coupon per person

AmAzing Specials!

Martini Mondays BOGO Wine Wednesday BOGO Happy Hour Friday

50% off all pizzas, well drinks & beer & wine BOgO Friday First Come, First Served 5 - 8 pm

5438 State Hwy 28 • Cooperstown • 607.282.4031 • www.boccaosteria.com

CLASSIC MOVIE – 3:30 p.m. For kids ages 2-5. See Thursday Listing.

RABIES CLINIC – 6 - 8 p.m.

Free rabies vaccination for cats, dogs, ferrets. Previous certificate must be presented for 3-year booster. Dogs must be on leash; cats and ferrets in carrier. Town Barn, Worcester. 607-547-4230.

24 beers on tap HappY HoUr

5 to 8 pm Mexican Mondays 1/2 off Mex DisHes tUe & tHU 1/2 price DrinKs Wed $.50 Wings

5418 State Highway 28, Cooperstown • 607.282.4525

AllOTSEGO.life

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020

B-3

Moshier Keeps Trailmakers, Other Vintage Sleds, In Public Eye SNOWSLEDS/From B1 Field Station’s Thayer Farm environmental center, 300 acres preserved in perpetuity, per the family’s wishes.

The older brother passed away in 1984. The younger Thayer brother, Rufus, was a friend of Moshier’s grandfather, and the older and younger man started turkey hunting together and became close friends.

In 1995, Rufus – wanting to put the machines back in use – offered Bob Moshier, then a young father, the Trailmakers, which by then had been sitting untouched for decades.

“I didn’t have the time and space for them,” said Moshier.

Still, he wrote down the markings on one of the machine’s decals: “The Trailmaker – Abe Mathews Manufacturing Co., Hibbing, Minn.”

The next week, his curiosity growing, Moshier picked up the Trailmakers and stowed them in the barn behind his home on the west end of Richfield Springs.

His love affair with antique snowmobiles had begun.

Today – 25 years later, Moshier is Eastern Regional director for ASCA, the American Council of Snowmobile Associations – its slogan, “Uniting the Snowmobile Community.”

AllOTSEGO.life

Jim Kevlin/

William Thayer graced the cover of Iron Dog Tracks magazine, in the issue containing a tribute by Bob Moshier.

The sole duty, he was told, is raising the profile of antique snowmobiles, a 12-month interest for ASCA members. “Shows!

You could go to one every weekend,” he said.

While the ASCA is based in Lansing, Mich., and while Mike Meagher, the president of the VSCA – the Vintage Snowmobile Club of America – holds sway from Grey Eagle, Minn., the largest show Moshier’s ever attended was last Aug. 3-4 in Lowville.

Some 100 miles north of Richfield Springs, the VSCA put on its 14th annual Vintage Snowmobile National Show, filling the Lewis County Fairgrounds with some 140 exhibitors. Once a year, Moshier contacts a local news outlet to keep getting the story out.

So the other day, he rolled one of the Trailmakers out of his barn onto one of the few remaining snow drifts in his backyard.

(Although knowing the weather around here, we still could get

another snowmobile-enabling snowstorm.)

As Moshier pointed out, “it’s very simple.” For instance, “the skis were culvert pipes.” His Trailmakers’ skis are unpainted at the bottom, indicating they are early models.

The engine is a K161 7-horsepower Kohler – it was also used to power riding lawnmowers.

And Moshier still has the original sparkplug. It’ll do the job, although he uses a contemporary sparkplug to save wear and tear on the original.

The Trailmaker’s advantage of simplicity; no computers: “You can work on it,” he said.

Once in hand, one thing led to another. Drilling down, Moshier discovered Abe Mathews Engineering primarily did work for iron mines in the nearby, and famed, Mesabi Range.

Iron mining went through periodic dips and, during one of them, Mathews’ mechanic John Howe sold his patent on his snowmobile to the company, which began producing the Trailmaker in the early 1960s.

In an article he wrote in 1999 for the ASCA’s magazine, Iron Dog Tracks, Moshier interviewed Gerald “Tony” Heald, who worked with Howe, who “described how the exclusive octagon drive unit

was designed to vibrate snow out of the track, whereas Polaris and Artic Cat would get snow in the track belt and slip.”

The rear engine was another positive feature, creating a smoother ride, Heald told Moshier, who also recalled Ski-Doo’s trials with the first front-engine sled: It would burrow the vehicles into snowbanks. The engine had to be shifted to the back, at some expense to the company.

In the 1990s, Moshier was happy to show off his new acquisitions: He and son Bobby, now an engineer in the Rochester area, would use one Trailmaker to pull a trailer bearing another in the annual Richfield Springs’ Firemen’s Parade, an annual summer highlight.

(His wife, Robin, is current Richfield Springs mayor, and daughter Katie was an aide to state Sen. Jim Seward.)

It’s unknown to most of us driving up and down West Lake Road that we’re passing a historical vignette: In 1964, Willie Thayer used a sturdy Trail-Maker to pull a NYTel cable across the ice, near Sunken Island.

When the ice melted, the cable sank to the bottom, and is still serving our communications needs today.

Living Waters Team Back From Honduras With Memories, Sense Of Accomplishment WATERS/From B1 trip to Las Mercedes, where a crew installed an ozone water-purification system in 2019.

“We asked them if they could see an improvement in their health, and they always say ‘yes’,” she said.

“They see fewer intestinal issues now because they’re drinking purified water.”

Since Jones founded the mission in 2012, it has installed six ozone waterpurification systems, as well as worked with a host of other community activities designed to increase health, economic opportunities and education in rural communities in the mountains of Honduras.

“I’ve been a long-.time member of the Social Action Committee, and I was tasked with investigating mission opportunities,” she said. “I learned about Living Waters: They do these water-purification plants in 23 different countries.”

Living Waters, which just installed its 1,000th water purification system, provides the parts and the training to the missionaries, as well as training water committees responsible for maintaining the plants after the missionaries leave.

The system parts, travel and training for the local water committees costs $10,000, raised through a variety of fundraisers every

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year, including their annual ice cream social, dinners and coffee sales.

Jones, an art conservator, was joined by two other members of the congregation, Carefree Gardens’ Brent Leonard and veterinarian Pam Lea. They arrived in San Pedro Sula at 3:30 a.m. on Valentine’s Day. “We spent a few days in Santa Bárbara, where we had several installations nearby,” she said.

“We wanted to talk to the water committees, see how the systems were working, Pam Lea Photo Cooperstown’s Brent Leonard surveys the or what they might need.”

In all, the trio visited five completed chicken house in Las Mercedes. communities to inspect the also helped with three other program nearby, and some condition of their systems. community projects. “Of all of the women had expressed “Some of them were running out of water, which the water surveys I’ve done, an interesting in learning Las Mercedes was probably to weave to make money,” was a concern. Global the poorest area we’d ever she said. “Rabbit wrote us warming has hit Honduras gone into,” she said.

“Most a check and told us to buy a hard; the dry season is people are trying to raise loom for the village.” longer, meaning there’s less their families on between School is free until the water for agriculture.” $2 and $4 a day.” sixth grade, but to go to But many of the systems Before she left for a high school, bus passes were working well, and as are $1 a day, plus uniforms such, they did not bring any Honduras, Jones met with Rabbit Goody of Thistle and other expenses. To replacement parts on the Hill Weavers, Cherry help offset some of those trip.

Valley.

“There is a weaving expenses, the visitors also In Las Mercedes, they

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most non-clearance items in store!*

22-26 Watkins Avenue, Oneonta Monday through Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm

ORHA

OTSEGO RURAL HOUSING ASSISTANCE, INC Established 1984

Building Trades Contractors Notice of Bidding Opportunities!

Otsego Rural Housing Assistance, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, administers housing rehabilitation programs to assist low-income Otsego County residents. These programs include NYS HOME, Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Mobile & Manufactured Home Replacement (MMHR), RESTORE, and others.

General contractors and building tradespeople (including but not limited to plumbers, electricians, carpenters, excavators, HVAC, roofers, lead assessors, and engineers) are encouraged to contact us about current and pending bid opportunities.

Contractors must carry liability and Workers Compensation insurance.

Minority and Woman Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE) and Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOB) owners especially encouraged.

Otsego Rural Housing Assistance, Inc. PO Box 189 • Milford, NY 13807 orha@stny.rr.com • (607) 286-7244

helped build a community chicken farm.

“A piece of land had been donated that’s large enough to raise enough chickens to provide eggs for school lunches, but also to sell to raise money for those uniforms and bus passes.”

They also worked with Chispa Project, which sponsored a book fair at each school and created five “mobile libraries.”

“Each school gets five backpacks with 30 books in them,” she said. “They can rotate the backpacks through the schools.”

They also sat and interviewed 18 of the village’s 23 middle and high school students about possible sponsorships and tuition assistances. “They all wanted to finish high school and go to college,” she said.

“They wanted to be doctors, nurses, engineers, but without outside help, the possibility of them achieving that is very small.”

Thank You!!

We appreciate all of the people that continue to go to work at Bassett Medical Center and other health facilities, despite current medical news.

Each one of you are making our community a safer place through your service and unselfishness.

It is truly appreciated!

STAY SAFE EVERYONE! --Anonomous Community Member

4316 County Hwy 11 Cooperstown 607-547-6038 krazytoms.com info@cfbsales.com SinCe 1962

*offer ends 4/1/2020 • min. purchase $399 Must mention ad!

Open weekdays: 9 am to 5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm After hours by appt.

Closed Sunday

OW N CE ED A P S IMIT L

Otsego County 2nd Amendment Sanctuary Rally Due to state mandated precautionary measures for our safety and health, occupancy permitted will be very limited. Please show respect for others.

Sunday, March 22 • 2:00 pm VFW Post 1417 (314 Ellis Rd., Laurens) Purpose: To provide an open forum for education and awareness concerning the nonstop gun control infringements that render People’s Right to bear arms out of existence.

QUESTION AND ANSWER FORMAT VFW will provide baked ziti and drinks

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020

B-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

The

job scene To place effective employment ads, call 607-547-6103

Otsego County Lutheran Parish Seeks an Office Manager WANTED - Six Internships/Temporary Employees Watershed Agricultural Council seeks 6 Interns/Temporary employees to perform various duties as part of a Watershed Agricultural Program (WAP) serving farms within the NYC Watershed. Four (4) of the positions will be Nutrient Management soil samplers who will perform the duties of soil sampling and data collection, One (1) position will be a WAP Ag/Field intern who will assist WAP staff with the design, implementation, installation and site inspections of BMP’s. One (1) position will be a WAP Planning/Technical Intern who will perform the duties of WFP monitoring, BMP inspections and installation and BMP data collection. These are 10 week summer positions that pay $13.00 per hour. Must have dependable vehicle, insurance and a valid N.Y.S. DL. Will be reimbursed for mileage incurred on the job. E.O.E.

Otsego County Lutheran Parish seeks an Office Manager to work 20 hours per week, M-F. Pay rate is $14.38 per hour. Computer skills and confidentiality commitment are essential. For job description & application details, contact: Search Committee, Atonement Lutheran Church, 1 Center Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Deadline is March 31st, 2020.

Questions: Telephone 607-432-6852 or email: prpaul_theoinst@hotmail.com

Please specify which position(s) you are interested in and send resumes to Amy Faulkner, WAC, 33195 State Highway 10, Walton, NY 13856, fax (607) 865-4932 or email afaulkner@nycwatershed.org. Deadline March 25, 2020.

Bruce Hall Corp. is seeking to hire an individual for

Join Our Team of Dedicated and Caring Professionals

Residential Associates -at OFO shelters

aCCounts reCeivaBle position

(Subs - all shifts; Addl. shift pay avail. for qualifying shifts)

Experienced preferred but will train the right person.

Must be able to use Excel and Word, work at a fast pace, organization is keyand have excellent customerservice skills. Salary is based on experience.

Benefits included.

HEAD START POSITIONS (All F/T with school breaks & Summers off)

Family Partner Classroom Teacher Assistant Teacher Center Associate

Please inquire and apply in person at 206 Main Street, Cooperstown. 607-547-9961

Serving Your Community Since 1921

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Notice of Formation of Shove Enterprises LLC.

SPECIFICATION DOCUMENTS. 1LegalMar.19 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of

Arts of Org filed with Sec of State of NY (SSNY) on March 5, 2020.

Office Location: Otsego County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall may process to Robert A. Gouldin, Esq., 93 Main Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful purpose.

6LegalApr.23

Arts of Org. filed SSNY 12/26/19.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY design agent of LLC upon whom process may be served & mail to 1967 Wehrle Dr #1-086 Buffalo, NY 14221 General Purpose 6LegalApr.16

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Notice of Formation of

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

47 Chestnut LLC. Arts of Org. filed with the Secretary of State on 03/05/2020.

Principal Business and Office Location: 47 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.

The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to 47 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalApr.16

BID # OTGOV-005-20 COUNTY OF ONONDAGA ON BEHALF OF OTSEGO COUNTY– BID REF # OTGOV-005-20 FOR FURNISHING VARIOUS CONSTRUCTION AND TRADE MATERIALS IS DUE MARCH 30, 2020 AT 2 PM IN THE DIVISION OF PURCHASE. REGISTER AT www.empirestatebidsystem.com TO DOWNLOAD

Emerald Glen Morris Ny LLC

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILTIY COMPANY Richfield Grange, LLC Articles of Organization was filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 25, 2020.

Office Location: Otsego County SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of the process to 1019 County Highway 25, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

6LegalApr.16 Legal nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF DC Estates LLC Art. of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/11/2020.

Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 297 Main St, Suite M6, Oneonta, NY, 13820.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

OFO is a family-oriented organization offering competetive wages, excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth. For an application, submission instructions, benefit package summary and descriptions of all employment openings, visit EOE www.ofoinc.org/jobs The leader in developing innovative solutions to promote healthy lives, thriving families, and caring communities since 1966.

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LEGALS

6LegalApr.16

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) Name: JCN Cranes, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 14, 2020.

Office location: Otsego County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to The LLC, 6 Railroad Avenue, Oneonta, New York 13820.

Purpose: Any lawful business purpose.

6LegalApr.16 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of Inner Awakening with Janice LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/13/2020.

Office: Otsego County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of the

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process to the LLC, PO Box 513 Morris, NY 13808.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalApr.9 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of MICHAEL F. ALLEVATO LLC Art. of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/21/2020.

Office location: Otsego County, SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 810 Mooney Road, Worcester, NY. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC law.

6LegalApr.9 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of 1945 County Highway LLC Arts. of Org. filed w/ SSNY 2/12/20.

Off. in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agt. of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 1945 County Hwy. 22, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

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6LegalApr.9

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Notice of Formation of Raldor73 LLC, Art. of Org. filed with SSNY on 8/15/19.

Off. loc.: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served & shall mail: 101 Cemetery Rd., Fly Creek, NY 13337.

Purp.: any lawful purp.

6LegalApr.9 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: STEVEN M. GRIDLEY EXCAVATING LLC Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 20 February 2020.

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 685 Hoose Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.

What About Tests?

What About Sports?

SCHOOLS/From A1

questions that still remain unanswered as schools in the Otsego Northern Catskills BOCES and beyond stand shuttered under quarantine restrictions related to the COVID-19 virus.

“Each of the BOCES and each of the schools have to work off-site as much as possible to be congruent with the idea of social distancing as a means to slow the spread of COVID19,” said ONC BOCES Superintendent Nick Savin.

“The main effort right now is to develop a structure in a very different way than we have worked before.”

The decision was made late Friday afternoon, March 13, to close for two weeks among the 18 districts that constitute the BOCES group.

Then, on Monday the schools announced they would remain shuttered at least through April 13.

Savin said he and other school officials had been aware for some time that school shutdowns might be necessary, and had been planning. The situation escalated a bit faster than they expected, but they were largely ready, he said.

“I would encourage everyone to adhere to social distancing,” he said, referring to the practice of keeping physically separated from others as much as possible to prevent contagion.

Ensuring that students continue their education, even if they can’t be in school buildings is a primary objective he shares with area school district leaders.

Both Cooperstown Central School District and the Oneonta schools had prepared learning packets for all students by Monday morning, and were distributing them later that day.

CCS Superintendent Bill Crankshaw was outside Cooperstown Elementary

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Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalApr.2 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of Copper Helix Design, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/18/2020.

Office location: Otsego County.

SSNY designated as Agent upon whom process against it may be served. Post office address SSNY shall mail copy of process to is 258 Bloomfield Rd, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted under LLC Law. 6LegalApr.2 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of Jay Mike LLC Filed 1/22/20 Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 10 Market Street, Suite 1, Oneonta, NY 13820 Purpose: all lawful 6LegalMar.26

Monday, where bins for each grade were set out and filled with packets bearing each child’s name.

The packets for a thirdgrade class, for instance, included a schedule for 14 days of assignments for every subject, and books for each student to read.

Oneonta Superintendent Thomas Brindley said his schools were doing the same.

“It is moving to see how many of our faculty and staff members are here tonight and the work that has gone into gathering and distributing materials to our students,” Brindley said.

Crankshaw spoke of the complexities of charting a course for his district in this uncertain time. “There are many unknowns at this point,” he said.

He stressed that his primary goal is to ensure the safety of students and staff in the ways that he can. Doing that, however, places schools at odds with the laws that guide teaching programs, he said.

Under the law, New York State schools must provide 180 days of instruction.

Governor Cuomo has waived that requirement, but what will the schools need to provide?

“We don’t have a lot of clarity,” Crankshaw said, adding that it’s unlikely these issues will be resolved quickly.

“There is no way we will give state tests as scheduled,” he said. Tests for grades 3 through 8 had been set for late March, but now the schools will be closed during that period.

Regents examinations for high school students, which are required for graduation, are also in limbo, he said.

Whatever decisions are made about academics and testing must follow those made by the rest of the state, because they involve established state laws.

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Notice of Formation of

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a NY Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Name:

Gjonaj Farms, LLC

DRI 7, LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on December 5, 2019.

Office Location: Otsego County.

SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC at: The Limited Liability Company, 483 Cherry Street, Bedford Hills, New York 10507.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalMar.19

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 6 February 2020.

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 393 Main Street Suite 5, Oneonta, New York, 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalMar.19 Legal nOtice

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Notice of Formation of

Notice of Formation of

PURE POLIDORO LLC

Sam’s Bicycles LLC.

Arts. Of Org. filed with the Sec’y. of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 01/08/2020.

Office location: Otsego County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: PO Box 309, Unadilla, New York 13849.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

6LegalMar.19

Filed 12/3/19.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 8 Myrtle Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: General.

6LegalMar.19 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of

►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.

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL B-5

OBITUARIES

Mary F. Maranzana, 84, Westford; Nurse At The Meadows

WESTFORD – Mary F. Maranzana, 84, a former LPN at The Meadows, died Friday, Feb. 28, 2020 at her home.

Mary was born in Colchester, Vermont, in 1935. Her family eventually moved to New Jersey.

At the urging of her brother, Wilfred, she went to a dance where she met her husband, John, in 1955.

She was married two years later. She had her first child in 1958. After a few years living in New York City, she moved with her husband to Piscataway, New Jersey and continued raising her family.

In the early 1960s Mary went to nursing school, graduated and worked for much of the decade as a licensed practical nurse.

She made her final home in Westford when she and John moved their family of four children in 1974.

Mary’s children all became

Wildcats and graduated from Milford Central School.

For much of the time Mary she had Maranzana children in school in New York, Mary played the role of home maker.

Financial times were not always rosy, but she did her best to take care of her children, which often meant going with less for herself.

She was very active in St. Mary’s Church in Cooperstown and served as a Eucharistic minister.

Mary returned to work as an LPN at the Meadows in the early 1980s and continued there until her retirement in 1997.

She had a dry sense of humor like her father, was a voracious reader, avid word

puzzle solver and a big fan of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. She loved fried clams at Woolworth’s lunch counter and she enjoyed salted butter on her bagel at Jackie’s. Mary enjoyed “CSI” and “Forensic Files”.

Like her son, perhaps she was searching for the perfect crime? Mary loved her cup of coffee and became a pro at making her culinary specialty, salmon loaf. Mom favored holiday meals served at noon and enjoyed basking in the sun. She looked forward to getting a permanent wave at Charlene’s every two weeks.

She was very spiritual and the second pew on the right side at St. Mary’s was her seat of choice.

Mom became a pro at navigating Darling Hill Road in treacherous winter conditions and one of her great joys (and her children’s worst fear) was

making sure her kids were dressed like Arctic explorers for their 100 foot trek to catch the school bus.

Mom’s life was filled with many dogs and cats over the years and she loved them all, except the dog her son tried to pawn off on her as a Christmas gift. That gift was returned unused.

Mary had many roles in her lifetime. She was a devoted daughter and sister,

compassionate aunt, patient daughter-in-law, faithful wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, warm friend and neighbor and hardworking, kind and considerate co-worker.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, John; and children, Louise, Margaret and John Jr. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother and her daughter,

Lisa.

There will be a Catholic Mass at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, celebrating her life, with interment following in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Tillapaugh Funeral Service in Cooperstown.

Sarah L. Wilcox, 76; Waitressed At Otesaga; Volunteered For Senior Meal Sites In Richfield EXETER – Sarah Louise Wilcox, 76, who waitressed at the Otesaga, passed away after an extended illness on Sunday morning March 8, 2020, at the home of her daughter in Oneonta.

She was born on January 22, 1944, in Cooperstown, daughter of the late Clinton Sr. and Elizabeth Duncan Sparks. Sarah was raised and educated in Schuyler Lake.

On January 26, 1963 she was united in marriage to Francis L. Wilcox in Hunter, NY. He passed away on Oct. 11, 2004.

For many years Mrs. Wilcox worked outside the home. She was a waitress for the Empire Diner in Herkimer and the Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown, she was a health aide at the Bella Vista Nursing Home in Richfield Springs and had worked for Figurine Statuary on US Highway 20.

She retired in 1987. Sarah had a strong belief in God and led a devoted Christian life.

In her later years she volunteered for Senior Meals in Richfield Springs.

Mrs. Wilcox will forever be remembered as a loving, hopeful and caring lady.

To her family she was always there for them in good times or bad. She will be truly missed.

Surviving her are two sons, Richard Wilcox and his wife Lisa of Schuyler Lake, Delbert Wilcox of Otego, two daughters, Pauline Key of Butler, N.C., Eva Garbera and her husband Charles of Otego, a brother Clinton Sparks, Jr. and his wife Vivian of Schuyler Lake, two sisters, Isabelle Moynihan of Ilion, Cathleen Ervin of Mohawk, ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, several

nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides her parents and husband Francis she was preceded in death by a sister

Sarah L. Wilcox

Virginia Hruby.

A funeral was held Thursday, March 12 at the J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home. Interment will take place later this spring in Schuyler Lake Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to the J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home.

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

Repair. Replace. Update. Or Get Away.

Home Equity Line of Credit

24-Month Introductory Period

After Introductory Period

2.40 2.75 % APR* Fixed Rate

%

APR* Variable Rate

Take a vacation. Get that new car. Add on a room or deck.

Fund college. Or consolidate bills at a great low rate. The sky’s the limit with your Bank of Cooperstown Home Equity Line of Credit.

Apply online or in person today!

*APR (Annual Percentage Rate). Rate is accurate as of March 16, 2020. The special offer applies to lines of $20,000 or more. Initial rate is fixed at 2.40% for 24 months. After 24 months, the variable rate can be as low as Prime minus .50% with a floor of 2.00% for the remainder of the loan. The maximum (ceiling) APR is 21.00%. The rate will be based on the Prime Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal. Loan to Value (LTV) of 80% or below. Offer requires automatic monthly payment transfer from USNY Bank retail checking or savings account. APR and the Initial Introductory Fixed Rate will increase by 1.00% if the auto pay feature is not selected prior to closing or is cancelled any time after the loan is in effect. This is only available to new Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) customers. The HELOC is for personal use when secured by a single family, owner occupied or secondary residence dwelling. Property insurance, including flood insurance if applicable, is required. The Bank pays for third party closing costs on this HELOC including credit report fees, flood determination fees and recording fees.

If the line is closed and discharged for any reason within the first 36 months, you will reimburse USNY Bank for all of the third party closing costs paid on your behalf at closing, generally ranging from $819 to $1,069 for a $50,000 line or loan. NYS mortgage tax required. Consult your tax advisor regarding interest deductibility. Must be 18 years of age or older to apply. Offer is subject to credit and property approval and may be modified or discontinued at any time. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Offer expires May 29, 2020.

73 Chestnut St. | Cooperstown, NY | 607-547-2210 34 Main St. | Oneonta, NY | 607-432-7000 Open 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Monday – Friday)

NMLS #645557

bankofcooperstown.com

AllOTSEGO.homes

Office fOr rent

cooperstown Village 209B Main St

$500/mo. 2-yr lease

Inc. electric, internet & heat, plus access to conference room and kitchenette. Avail. Mar. 1.

Call Steve at 865-384-9884 or email bieritzinsurance@aol.com

New Purchases and Refinances Debt Consolidation Free Pre-Qualification Fast Approvals • Low Rates

Matt Schuermann

Registered Mortgage Broker NYS Banking Dept.

20 Chestnut Street • Suite 1 • Cooperstown 607-547-5007 www.leatherstockingmortgage.com

INSURANCE MANY COMPANIES. MANY OPTIONS. Bieritz insurance agency

Real people who truly care... your hometown insurance agency!

209 Main Street, Cooperstown 607-547-2951 across from Bruce Hall 607-263-5170 in Morris Celebrating our

Ben Novellano

th 30 YEAR! 1990-2020

B-6

AllOTSEGO.life

AllOTSEGO.homes

THURSDAY, March 19, 2020

157 Main Street,Cooperstown 607-547-5740

www.hubbellsrealestate.com

Dynamic Dutch-style

(8662) 5-BR, 3-bath home w/views on 41.60 acres. 2-story foyer, LR w/fireplace, large built-in bookcases, French doors to veranda. Impressive staircase, formal DR, crown moldings, maple floors, mudroom, laundry. Gourmet kitchen, master suite, 3-car garage. Cooperstown Schools.

Hubbell’s Exclusive—$679,000

On the Edge of Cooperstown

(8466) 5-BR, 2-bath, brick 1871 high Victorian w/rolling hills outlook on 10 acres. Historic home features gracious LR w/fireplace, bay window, formal DR, library, family room. Oak flooring, eat-in kitchen, front and side porch, carriage barn w/2 box stalls, riding ring. Cooperstown Schools.

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City Charmer! Beautifully detailed center-city 3-BR, 2-bath home on an historic street w/everything one could want within walking distance. Sit on the porch in the summer, or by the fireplace in the winter. This home boasts beautiful woodwork, hardwood floors, claw-foot tub, period chandeliers, storage galore, all with a maintenance-free lot.

MLS#125179 $167,500

Beautifully Situated

Locally owned and operated Single and multi-family homes Commercial property and land

99 Main Street, Oneonta office 607.441.7312 fax 607.432.7580

Log Cabin Home Views and beautiful country setting. Spacious and bright 3-BR, 2-bath home w/open floorplan, vaulted open-beam ceilings, granite counters, stainless steel appliances. Wrap deck, finished 2-car garage w/heat, water, electric. Minutes to Cooperstown, Oneonta.

MLS#124790 $199,900

www.oneontarealty.com Lizabeth Rose, Broker/Owner Cricket Keto, Licensed Assoc. Broker Peter D. Clark, Consultant

9+ acres of land. This spacious home offers 3 BRs, 2 baths plus attached studio space and separate apartment.

Wood-Mode kitchen, exposed beams, large work island, wood floors, 166 Main Street, Ste 1, Oneonta fireplace, sunroom leading to deck offering great hilltop views, more! office 607.433.2873 MLS#125319 $280,000 www.oneontarealty.com

Home of the Week Cooperstown Village (8618) Enjoy the offerings in this impeccable 3-BR, 2-bath Colonial on a tranquil street. This appealing residence provides a pellet stove, bay windows, natural woodwork, formal DR and eat-in kitchen w/oak cabinets. Laminate flooring, laundry room, ceiling fans. Vinyl siding, large covered deck, mature foliage, large yard. Large 2-car garage. Move-in condition. A charmer! Cooperstown Schools.

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157 Main Street, Cooperstown 607-547-5740 www.hubbellsrealestate.com