The Freeman's Journal 05-09-24

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Brookwood Launch Relocation

Questioned by OLT Neighbors

By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN

No change in use, no change in capacity, no road, no lights, no structures.

When asked about concerns expressed by Brookwood Point Conservation Area neighbors, Otsego Land Trust Executive Director Gregory Farmer was adamant that relocation of the existing paddling launch to the northern end of the property does not constitute a change in OLT’s original master plan.

“This is exactly what has been discussed since we acquired the Brookwood Point property,” Farmer said in a telephone interview on Friday, May 3. “The only difference is the

boardwalk, which requires a Special Permit from the town in order to protect the wetlands in that area.”

According to Farmer, the original master plan for the 22-acre parcel along Otsego Lake was developed in 2011 and approved in 2015, at which time OLT received a Special Permit to operate Brookwood Point as a recreational facility with no further conditions from the Town of Otsego. The northern location was the preferred spot for the paddling launch, but could not be completed then because the existing pedestrian bridges were in complete disrepair, Farmer explained.

“As there was no access then to the northern side of the property, we went with the natural launch at the southern

Continued on page 8

Clark Foundation Provides $6M to Support New Daycare Center

COOPERSTOWN

Agrant of $6 million to underwrite the creation of a new children’s daycare facility on the campus of Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown was announced by Jane Forbes Clark, president of The Clark Foundation, on Tuesday, April 30.

“The Foundation’s Board of Trustees and I are very pleased to be providing the funding needed to build a state-of-the-art daycare center,” said Clark. “Providing excellent daycare for the children of Bassett employees that is literally next door, with flexible hours to match their schedules, will help to attract and retain the best caregivers that our communities need and depend upon.”

The center will provide care for infants, toddlers, and pre-school children, and the care will be available during clinical work hours. Bassett will transform the historic Harrison House

located at 1 Beaver Street into the new facility by constructing a 3,000-squarefoot addition that will have classrooms, common and service areas, offices, and an enclosed playground.

The building will also have space dedicated to sick care, ensuring that employees’ children have appropriate care when necessary and, as a result, employees will not have to miss work. It is anticipated that the center will serve 70 children and employ 18 staff. It is expected to open in 2025.

‘’This extraordinary support from The Clark Foundation will be a game changer for our employees and their children,” said Staci Thompson, MHA, FACMPE, president and chief executive officer, Bassett Healthcare Network. “Access to an on-site daycare center will enable our employees to achieve a proper work-life balance and take great comfort that their children are safe and being well taken care of.”

LWV Announces School Board Candidates’ Debate on May 13

COOPERSTOWN

The League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area will hold a candidates’ debate for the three open seats on the Cooperstown Central School District Board of Education on May 13. The event will be held at the Cooperstown Central School Jr./Sr. High School cafeteria at 7 p.m.

There are six candidates running for the school board: Padraic MacLeish, Matthew Monahan, Mary Beth

Murdock, Keith Parr, Anthony Scalici and William Streck. Monahan and Scalici are incumbent.

Maureen Murray, a member of the Cooperstown Area LWV, will moderate the event. The school board elections are non-partisan; candidates do not run as members of a party.

On Election Day, May 21, voters will also vote on the 2024-2025 district budget, a school bus lease proposi-

Continued on page 11

Wooden Volunteers at Adaptive Basketball Clinic

ONEONTA

raham Wooden of Oneonta was one of 19 SUNY Oneonta students who volunteered at the annual Adaptive Basketball Clinic on campus.

The event, created through a partnership between the college’s Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences and EDD Adaptive Sports, was held in the Chase Gym on April 14. It allowed area individuals who have varying intellectual and adaptive disabilities to hone their skills in basketball through different technical and shooting drills.

Wooden is studying exercise science and is part of the SUNY Oneonta Class of 2024.

Sports, a non-profit organization that offers adaptive sports programs to children and adults with any disability. EDD Adaptive Sports programs allow people of all ages to participate in a variety of free athletic and sport-related activities, including basketball, biking, kayaking, soccer, swimming, pickleball, rowing, and yoga.

According to a press release, this was the second year that SUNY Oneonta and EDD Adaptive Sports worked together to make the basketball clinic a successful day for everyone involved.

“The enthusiasm of the coaches helped make today a wonderful experience,” said Barbara Mackey, a member of the Board of

Over the past few years, SUNY Oneonta’s

Sport and Exercise Sciences department has developed a relationship with EDD Adaptive

Photo provided

Graham Wooden (center) assists clinic participants seeking to improve their basketball skills.

Graphic provided

The original Brookwood Point Conservation Area master plan, approved by the Town of Otsego in 2015, called for a paddling launch at the northern end of the property.

Happy Mother's Day

We, the undersigned, mourn for the millions of unborn children and their mothers wounded by abortion. Every life deserves a lifetime.

Linda Porter

Margaret Kenyon

Richard Kenyon

Amanda Kenyon

Mark Kenyon

Carmen G. D’Amico

Mark D’Amico

Joseph D’Amico

Benjamin D’Amico

Teresa D’Amico

Elena D’Amico

Cristina D’Amico

lsabella D’Amico

Antonio D’Amico

Paul and Carole Trotta

Edward Hegler

Alfred Tinger

Dr. Richard Ucci

Elaine Ucci

Duane Ritter

Katie Ritter

Ashton Ritter

Clayton Ritter

Rose Mystica Shrine

Chloe Quigley

Garrett Quigley

James Quigley

Mairead Quigley

Dianne Brockman

Adriele Novellano

Baldanza Family

Carol Moonen

Jeanie Schmiedel

Pastor Dennis Kropp

Ben Novellano

Mark A. Miller

Caleb Kropp

Natalie Kropp

David Kropp

Bailey Family

Nate lngalls

Bethany lngalls

Karen Kropp

Bordacs Family

Karen Elliott

John Elliott

Vera Glover

Teresa D Amico

Wayne Decker

Robert Glover

Fran Baldanza

Joe Anderson

Charles Baldanza

Ritchey Family

Rodney Dirig

Dianne Dirig

Armstrong Family

Tammy Miller

Elizabeth Miller

Emaly Miller

Justin Bailey

Abbey Bailey

Mary Weston

Owen Kennedy

Mary Kay Kennedy

John Kennedy

Rose Reynolds

Constance Ruehle

Teresa O’Leary

Paul Wenner

Janet Wenner

Brigid Wenner

Katherine Gielskie

Alan Gielskie

Cara Wilson

Max Wilson

Susan Gielskie

Noah Gielskie

Rose Gielskie

Jude Gielskie

George Gielskie

Peter Gielskie

Patrick Wenner

Mother is the name for God, in the minds and on the hearts of little children. William Makepeace Thackery s augh h

Monica Kennedy

Polly Kennedy

Edmund Kennedy

Robert Kennedy

Alice Kennedy

Jean McKilligan

Charles McKilligan

Naples Family

Julie Auriemma

Janet Marr

Anonymous

The Sienkiewicz Family

Lisa Mooney

Joseph Potrikus

Doreen Potrikus

Henry Sanna

Deb Sanna

Dave Sanna

Jim Reynolds

Salvatore Grigoli

Christine Hanus

Pastor Rodney Dirig

Precious Dwight

Sean Dwight

Karen Elliott

John Elliott

Mary Catherine Hanus

Patrick Hanus

Laura Hawking

Harry W Hawley

Sarah Wenner

Belen Wenner

Gail Wenner

Dante Wenner

Emily Meyer

George Meyer

Ezekiel Meyer

Jean Jones

Paul Butler

Ginger Butler

Sandy Moran

Jessie Gage

Linda Holtmaster

The Collins Family

Chris Deemer

Barbara Deemer

Dominique Novellano

In memory of Yvette Vallieres

Ruth M Hawley Vicki MacCracken Puglisi

In memory of Ethel Koch

In memory of Judi Carroll

In memory of Matuszka

Anastasia

Christy Kennedy

Precious Dwight

Sean Dwight

Alyssa Jackson

Logan Jackson

Mary O’Keefe

Marie Dengler

Patricia Dengler

Respect for Life Ministry

St. Mary’s Cooperstown

Salvatore Grigoli

Diane Grigoli

Howard Hacker

Frank MacCracken, Jr.

Vicki MacCracken

Laura Hawkings

Patrick Hawkings

Margaret Monaco

Donna Brockway

Larry Prill

Nancy Prill

David Krupa

Betsy Krupa

Russ Anderson

Jane Anderson

Roger Terry

Linda Terry

Tracy Lee Abrams

Amy Kropp | Main Street

Baptist Church

Sacred Heart Council #4937

Jared Herrmann

Walter Herrmann

Peg Rozzi

Ted Rozzi

Jen Guidice

Mike Guidice

Paula Puglisi | Mary Kay Consultant

Patrick Wenner

Paul Wenner

Sarah Wenner

Mary Weston

Carole Whalen

Jessica White

Jackie Yarborough

Cider Mill Preps for Its 168th Season

FLY CREEK

The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is gearing up for its 168th season starting Friday, May 10.

Nestled in the heart of Fly Creek, the historic mill is renowned for its signature products— from apple cider to extrasharp New York State cheddar and creamy mill-made fudge. As visitors return to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season, they can also experience the mill’s tasting room.

“Our tasting room offers a place to relax and unwind with a tasting flight of Farm Winery products,” said Bill Michaels, owner of the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard. “Guests can enjoy a flight while overlooking the millpond, production area and historic equipment.”

The mill’s tasting room features a wide selection of apple wines, hard ciders, craft beers and distilled spirits. Whether enjoying a glass of crisp cider or savoring a flight of apple wines, visitors are invited to raise a toast to the flavors of Fly Creek.

While visiting, guests can witness a remarkable piece of cider mill history—the fully restored turbine. Originally installed in 1872, the turbine has been meticulously restored to its former glory and is housed in a new water tank crafted by Unalam in Southern Otsego County.

Harnessing the power of Fly Creek, the turbine drives the 1889 Boomer & Boschert Press, which

Michaels describes as “a marvel of engineering that has been pressing cider for generations.”

As water flows through the turbine, it powers a series of belts and shafts, ultimately creating 50 tons of pressure to the press—all though the power of water.

“The completion of the turbine restoration project marks a significant milestone for us,”

Michaels explained.

“It’s a testament to our commitment to preserve the heritage of the mill while embracing sustainable practices for the future.”

Perspectives

“The Freeman’s Journal” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper. They must include the writer’s name, address, e-mail and telephone/ mobile number; the opinions expressed must be the writer’s own. Hostile, offensive, factually incorrect or excessively inflammatory content will not be published. The length must be no more than 250 words. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com. A-4

Let’s Reboot Mother’s Day

Here comes Sunday, and this one is our annual big day for all the moms in our midst. Showing up at around the same time as the also-annual cherry blossoms, fish runs, Kentucky Derby and the onslaught of black flies, which unhappily leave us itching, scratching, and swollen all the way to Father’s Day, on the horizon on June 16. Although Mother’s Day began, before the Civil War, with a bunch of good intentions, today it’s a commercial event of staggering financial ramifications and, perhaps, questionable focus.

In 1858, in Taylor County, in what would become West Virginia, Ann Jarvis, a mother of 13, of which only four actually made it to adulthood, created Mother’s Day Work Clubs, whose members—women—addressed public health issues and provided assistance and education to families in the Appalachians in response to the high infant mortality rate caused by unsanitary conditions and childhood disease. During the Civil War, the clubs nursed the wounded and sick Union and Confederate soldiers, working tirelessly for peace, unity, reconciliation, community and, as well, a day to honor mothers.

Jarvis died in 1905. Three years later her daughter, Anna, took up the Mother’s Day mission, sending 500 white carnations to her mother’s church in Grafton, West Virginia, in her honor. Anna Jarvis then went on a campaign to make Mother’s Day officially recognized as a holiday, eventually achieving that goal when, on May 9, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed into law a congressional resolution proclaiming the second Sunday in May Mother’s Day, a holiday that would be “a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” Wilson’s proclamation spelled ‘Mother’s’ in the singular, as Jarvis had insisted, to imply that each mother individually should be honored rather than all the mothers of the world together. The president also encouraged the people of the United States to fly the American flag out of respect for those many mothers.

The new holiday gained world-wide recognition in a hurry. Today, more than 40 countries celebrate annually their mothers, mothers-in-law, stepmothers and grandmothers, some under the guise of religion, others the culmination of heritage and history.

That was then. Through the years, the holiday gained the attention of commercial enterprises, and florists, restaurants, greeting-card manufacturers, greeting-card shops, jewelry stores and candy shops took advantage of the celebration. Mother’s Day has become one of the most commercially successful American occasions. It’s the most popular day of the year, in fact, not for giving Mom breakfast in bed, but for taking her out to a restaurant; it generates a significant portion of the U.S. jewelry industry’s annual revenue. Indeed, on this long-established holiday initially intended as a means to bestow love and honor upon all of our mothers, we Americans now spend around $2.6 billion on flowers, $1.53 billion on pampering gifts (spa treatments and the like) and another $68 million on greeting cards (an estimated 50 percent of households send 113 million Mother’s Day cards)—it’s truly a Hallmark Holiday.

But Mother’s Day was born of a caring group’s efforts for peace, unity, reconciliation, community and kindness. A great idea. We could try that. Happy Mother’s Day.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Publisher / Advertising Director Tara Barnwell

Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs

Sales Consultant: Randy Christian Office Manager: Larissa Ryan Interns: Emily Hilbert and Arya Patel

Columnists and Contributing Writers

Elizabeth Cooper,

Rachel

Terry Berkson, Monica

Tara Barnwell, Faith Gay, Michael Moffat, Elinor Vincent, Darla M. Youngs

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THE PARTIAL OBSERVER

HEAT Act Nothing But a Hot Mess

The proposed NY HEAT Act, which would mandate a rapid transition to air-source heat pumps, is yet another toxic plan, currently shunted to the back burner in Albany. Although it did not make it into the budget, with pressure from advocates it could be passed this session.

NY HEAT, like its Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act launch pad, runs counter to sound engineering and responsible fiscal policy. What’s wrong with it? Let me count the ways.

A five-ton ASHP unit may cost $9,000.00. Installation in the New York City area would cost as much as the pump, assuming existing panel boxes could support the load. There is currently a shortage of plumbers and electricians to do that work. New panel boxes, wiring, and post-installation repair, combined with labor shortages, would serve to increase costs and undermine any timetable. Further, an ASHP may require 5,000 kilowatt-hours a year. Electric bills are already climbing, as rate-payers finance new transmission lines and utilities deal with gas shortages. For homes and apartments with new pumps, electric bills could double.

The independent system (grid) operator, the NYISO, is projecting a 450-megawatt capacity shortfall in the metro region as early as summer 2025, assuming normal weather conditions and without factoring in NY HEAT’s additional load. With building and vehicle electrification, the NYISO already expects demand to double in the next 25 years. But NY HEAT implementation would require a capacityconstrained grid to deliver lots more electricity in the very near term.

Increased electricity demand would in turn increase the load on every transformer in the state. Transformers would have to be replaced, but—as has been reported on National Public Radio and elsewhere— replacements do not exist. The increases to load would also require replacing transmission lines. This could take decades and would require lots of aluminum. Currently, there isn’t enough aluminum for beverage cans, let alone thousands of miles of wire.

Even ignoring the sluggish pace of buildout and lack of battery support, solar and onshore wind are intermittent and have low-energy density, rendering them unsuitable to support additional demand. Offshore wind will not help. Many of New York’s offshore wind projects were cancelled. Driving bid prices and cancel-

Former President Behaving Badly

John Adams, a founding father of this country, wrote about the relationship between the government and the law. A republic, he wrote, “is an Empire of Laws and not of Men: and therefore…that particular Arrangement… which is best calculated to Secure an exact and impartial Execution of the Laws, is the best Republic.”

The result was our Constitution, and, over time, the duly passed Amendments to it. One of the first acts of the first Congress was to establish our judicial system. Our Democratic republic was formed, with free elections to choose our leaders. We stablished a government focused on preventing the rule of kings, monarchies and dictators.

With the passage of the 14th amendment after the Civil War, the people explicitly wrote into the Constitution the principle that all U.S. citizens must be equal before the law.

Yet, our former President constantly bashes, name calls, demeans, and harasses that judicial system, including attacks on the families of

lations, supply-chain and construction hurdles mean significant offshore installation may not happen this decade. The Jones Act prohibits foreign jack ships from installing turbines in U.S. waters. The U.S.’s first Jones-Act-compliant ship, Dominion’s Charybdis, may not be ready until early 2025 and is already booked for Virginia’s 2.6 gigawatt project.

Ultimately, increases in demand from ASHPs—a Micron factory, bitcoin mining, or AI hubs—will rely on our fleet of fossilfuel power plants. The metro region is currently at capacity, so peaker plants will continue to be needed. Even before the NY HEAT proposal, NYISO indicated that deadlines for closing peakers will need to be extended. Gas supply constraints downstate mean Cricket Valley—a combinedcycle plant in Dover—can’t currently run at full capacity. Compression expansion projects on the Iroquois and Algonquin pipelines may be needed to fuel peakers and big plants at Ravenswood and Cricket Valley, as well as for private homes.

If California is a model for New York, it is also an admonition. California is 20 years ahead of us in solar and wind installations and has about 40 percent intermittent capacity. California can boast a solar capacity factor twice what New York gets and has deserts in which to put the panels. Nevertheless, it has extended deadlines for closing gas plants and, with an EPA waiver, has also built new ones. Even with the largest lithium-ion battery in the world, California can’t store summer solar and had to dump about three terawatthours of energy last year. Can New York do better? The state Energy Research and Development Authority’s storage projections would cost hundreds of billions of dollars for batteries that might last 10 years. And if all that storage were fully charged, we could not keep the lights on in New York City—let alone the rest of the state—for one day.

New York currently has only about eight percent renewable capacity. To meet a 70 percent-by-2030 renewable target, industrial solar and wind installed over the last 30 years would have to be multiplied six-fold in four years. There is no reason, beyond press releases, to believe this can happen. Rural opposition to solar and wind buildout has also grown. 2020 Executive Law 94-C established the Office of Renewable Energy Siting to speed

Continued on page 11

judges, staff, and others. He claims he is a victim. Really?

Can you imagine a defendant in your own county, berating the local judges and staff and their families after a grand jury of ordinary citizens had indicted him for stealing from you, fraudulently selling you worthless goods, or for abusing your daughter? How would you feel?

Sounds awful, yes?

Well, in our great country of laws, that’s exactly what the former President is doing.

Sherwood Guernsey, Esq. Rural Freedom Network Pittsfield, MA

ZBA Should Do the Right Thing

For the past five years or so, I have been one of the volunteer coaches at the Otsego Area Rowing facility at Brookwood Point, the Otsego Land Trust’s permitted recreational area. Other coaches and I have introduced adults, local youth, physically challenged kids and disabled veterans to the great sport of rowing. Some of our youth have become skillful enough to compete in local regattas.

The existing OAR site is a

beach launch next door to the Otsego Sailing Club.

Launching boats over slippery rocks is difficult. It is especially difficult for our disabled rowers. The original OLT master plan showed nonmotorized boat access on the north side of Brookwood, but a dilapidated, unusable pedestrian bridge made that impossible. The bridge has now been rebuilt. That allows OLT to relocate the canoe, kayak, paddle board, and rowing shell access to the north and to install a floating dock. Launching from a floating dock is certainly more convenient and an order of magnitude safer than beach launching. It also precludes interfering with the sailing club’s operations. In order to reach the new dock, a walkway must be constructed. Since the raised walkway will cross the Otsego Lake Shoreline Protection Area, the Town of Otsego has required the issuance of a variance to permit its construction. OLT has applied for the required variance. Unfortunately, the application has stirred up opposition from some of Brookwood’s neighbors.

I write because that opposiContinued on page 9

Calzolari,

Frick Cardelle,

Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Karolina Hopper, Ian Kenyon, Wriley Nelson, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin

DEnnIS HIGGInS

Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART

160 YEARS AGO

Excerpts from a letter penned by President Abraham Lincoln to A.G. Hodges of Frankfort, Kentucky dated April 4, 1864: “I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong. I cannot remember when I did not so think and feel. And yet I have never understood that the Presidency conferred upon me an unrestricted right to act officially upon this judgment and feeling. It was in the oath I took that I would to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. I could not take the office without taking the oath. Nor was it my view that I might take an oath to get power and break the oath in using the power. I understood too, that in ordinary civil administration, this oath, even forbade me to practically indulge my primary, abstract judgment on the moral question of slavery. I had publicly declared this many times and in many ways. And I aver that, to this day, I have done no official act in mere deference to my abstract judgment and feeling on slavery.”

May 6, 1864

110 YEARS AGO

In Our Town—The first cycle car (motorcycle with sidecar), something entirely new in the buzzcart line, to make its appearance in Cooperstown was a Pioneer, owned by Ralph Flanders, who took advantage of the good roads Sunday to take a trial spin. Mr. Flanders has the agency.

The following notice has been placed in front of one of Cooperstown’s business places where sitters are wont to congregate. “These steps are leased for business purposes and not for the use of sitters and spitters.”

May 6, 1914

85 YEARS AGO

The old Phinney pasture on which Abner Doubleday marked out the first baseball diamond a hundred years ago on Saturday afternoon was visited by a gathering of over 3,500 people to participate in and witness the initial ceremonies of Cooperstown’s season-long celebration of the event which has proven such an important factor in American life –the invention of the national game. They saw the plot which a century ago was on the western outskirts of Cooperstown, now miraculously transformed into a perfect baseball diamond with a modern grandstand completely equipped with all appurtenances for the comfort and conveniences of players and spectators and augmented by encircling bleachers with a seating capacity of 10,000. They saw a surface as smooth and green as a new billiard table, and the setting, amidst gardens, lawns and shade trees, with the village church spires in the distance was one to stir the hearts of visitors and residents alike.

May 10, 1939

60 YEARS AGO

Work will commence this week on development of the vacant lot at the corner of Main and Pioneer Streets into a village park. The Board of Trustees and the Scriven Foundation have approved plans for the project, which will be carried out with funds to be raised by public subscription. No tax monies are involved. The work will be done by Neil R. Neilson, Inc., Oneonta contractor.

May 13, 1964

20 YEARS AGO

Bassett Healthcare’s Junior Volunteer Program is accepting volunteers age 14 and older to donate time to perform important services at the hospital’s Cooperstown facilities during the summer months. The program begins on Tuesday, July 6. Students are asked to donate a total of 50 hours during the seven-week program which concludes on August 20. Parental permission and immunization shots are required.

May 7, 2004

Solution: “I.Q. Test” (May 2)

Spring Brings New Programs, Partnerships

Now that we’ve had abundant rain, I am sure we are all ready for some sunshine! But all that rain brings plentiful fields of wildflowers, a back yard full of color, and beautiful birds. When I look around the habitat of my back yard, I think this is the kind of diversity and integration I look for in my community and the cities I visit around the country and abroad. I do all I can to maintain a healthy habitat for the life around me, not only in the back yard of my home but also for my family, friends, coworkers, and neighborhood.

As promised, Springbrook continues expanding opportunities for employment growth, community connections, and collaborative partnerships. Every day, Springbrook works toward unifying community members, employees, and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to ensure that everyone feels empowered to live their best life and is provided with every opportunity to thrive, which is why we are excited about new partnerships with the State University of New York at Oneonta, Hartwick, and Vêsucré LLC, and a new Employment Services office at the Ford on Main.

Springbrook and SUNY Oneonta have partnered to provide tuition-free Direct Support Professional credentialing, a program designed to provide knowledge about human services, specifically working with families and people with disabilities. This Springbrook Training and Education Program initiative will offer DSP micro-credentials I and II. The State University of New York, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, and the National

By MERL REAGLE

Baby! (2)…

ACROSS

1 Rapper in court

6 Former capital of Crete 11 Gig

14 Jane’s misguided matchmaker

18 Contrary outcome

19 Keats was one

20 Spelling or donuts

21 Guy who landed the Eagle

22 Crab sighting?

25 Instrument quality

26 Word in Shatner book titles

27 Golfer Ernie

28 Big name in bathroom humor?

30 Grand ___

32 Big benefit, perhaps

34 Major periods

35 The quicker pickerupper?

36 Friend

38 Barker and Bell

39 A German film you can root for?

43 The next step in treating flyers like cattle?

47 British blackbird

49 A, in Augsburg

50 “My heart means ___” (Shak.)

51 It moves mountains

52 Art movement

53 Hide-out

54 Corral, e.g.: abbr.

55 Inebriation citation: abbr.

58 People who don’t buy Jif?

63 With 80 Across, what it’s like after a meeting of the Curly Fan Club?

66 Brown buildup

67 1974 hit, “Billy, Don’t Be ___”

Association of Direct Support Professionals have partnered to offer this opportunity and nationally recognized credentials in New York State. Springbrook will provide a pay increase to DSPs upon completion of each credential level.

A new and exciting Hartwick initiative for the region is EmpowerU. This collaborative program is designed to provide people with disabilities with a comprehensive college experience. EmpowerU students will have the opportunity to gain valuable college experience through immersion in the Hartwick College community while attending classes and campus events, building social connections and valuable work experience through on-campus placements, and making lasting friendships by integrating into student life.

We are proud to launch an Employment Services office at the Ford on Main. This new employment hub for Otsego County will bridge the employment gap between people with disabilities who seek employment and employers who seek qualified employees. Employment specialists at Springbrook have successfully prepared and placed people with disabilities in paid positions in more than 145 businesses in retail, food service, and custodial, across six counties.

Last month, we entered a collaborative partnership with local business Vêsucré, which will open The Makery and The Maketeria at the Springbrook Oneonta Campus. They will host food production to employ people with disabilities and provide lunches for purchase to people attending the Springbrook Capstone Day

Continued on page 11

Gilbertsville Art Gallery Will Host Summer Concert Series

By TERESA WINCHESTER GILBERTSVILLE

Otsego County’s cultural life has traditionally tacked toward two centers—Oneonta and Cooperstown. But Barbara Siesel, an accomplished flutist who holds two degrees from Juilliard, is looking to adjust that gravitational pull westward toward the Dunderberg Gallery at 118 Marion Avenue in Gilbertsville. The picturesque village is located in the Town of Butternuts, which, along with Unadilla, Morris, Pittsfield and Edmeston, lies in the westernmost reaches of Otsego County. Siesel, with her husband and artistic partner Keith Torgan, purchased an 1830s stone house in Gilbertsville in 2021.

“There are so many artists and creatives living here. I wanted to find a way to showcase so much talent. The idea of a series developed out of conversations with John Colonna, who has performed at the gallery numerous times,” Siesel said.

“Concerts at the Dunderberg” will offer seven concerts, taking place on Thursdays and Saturdays. They will feature a broad spectrum of musical genres—from baroque to jazz, traditional to experimental. There will also be three world premieres of electronic music composed by Thad Wheeler, Patrick Rost and Siesel.

“There will be something for everyone this summer. We want to bring people together, want them to know there is a place to go to hear music on a regular basis. We hope many people will come over this way to experience not just the music, but the other charms of Gilbertsville,” Siesel said.

Among Gilbertsville’s “other charms,” Siesel counts the variety of architecture in its houses and churches, including the neo-Tudor architecture of the Gilbert Block and the Major’s Inn. In addition, Gilbertsville’s Five Kids Bakehouse and Empire House Restaurant have become destination eateries in and of themselves.

Attending the concerts will also provide an opportunity to take in the vibrant art of Marcus Villagran, who transformed the Butternut Valley Hardware Store into the colorful Dunderberg Art Gallery in 2014. Since then, the gallery has hosted numerous concerts, art exhibits and community meetings. Villagran’s deep appreciation for music comes from his mother, who was a classical pianist.

“My friend and I used to lie under the baby grand and listen to her play Prokofiev, Bach and Mozart. It was very powerful,” he said, adding that to this day he still shares long letters with friends describing the latest music they have been listening to.

“There will be a reception with light refreshments at each event, so attendees will have a chance to meet and mingle with the artists,” Siesel said.

The opening concert will be on May 18 at 7:30 p.m. It is titled “Pairings: Songwriters and the Songs They Love” and will feature Keith Torgan with

his friends, songwriters Stuart Kabak and Mary Cordelia Myers. Although their styles are very different, working together, they have discovered thematic commonalities.

“This makes for a very interesting evening of songs,” Siesel said.

Colonna will be featured in three of the concerts. He grew up in Gilbertsville and now resides in New York City. His major musical influences are classical, rock and jazz. He received a degree in jazz composition from the Berklee College of Music and a master’s in jazz piano at New York University. He has since performed in New York City at Club Groove, Tomi Jazz, Cipriani, Hutaoli, Rockwood and the Jazz Club at Aman. He has taught music at SUNY Oneonta and currently teaches at Hartwick College.

For the series, Colonna will be playing with several musicians he met when teaching at SUNY Oneonta and with whom he has played locally— drummers Blake Fleming and Sebastian Green, jazz bassists Tong Cherd and Evan Jagels and jazz guitarist Wyatt Ambrose. Two of his fellow musicians from New York City—jazz pianists Joelle Proctor and bassist Kenji Tokunaga—will play with him for the June 27 concert.

“I’m excited to play in my home territory. I love playing with all the great musicians I know from the area,” Colonna said.

Flutist Siesel has played in major concert venues throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. She was a pioneer in thematic programming as artistic director of the Storm King Music Festival in the Hudson Valley, an event devoted to the intersection of new music and new technology. Siesel has taught flute worldwide, with special emphasis on performing and teaching in China. In recent years, Siesel has co-created (with Torgan), live, awardwinning, multi-disciplinary works for children using music, theater, and storytelling to introduce children to classical music and original song.

“I’m excited to use my curatorial experience for this series and grateful to Marcus and the team for what he’s is doing for the musicians in the community,” Siesel said.

Tickets for individual concerts will be available at the door: $20 for adults; $15 for seniors and students; $10 for children. To find out about season passes at reduced rates, call the gallery at (607) 783-2010.

‘The Buzz about Pollinators’ Opens May 11 at The Farmers’ Museum

COOPERSTOWN

On May 11, The Farmers’ Museum opens a new exhibition in its Main Barn, “The Buzz about Pollinators.” The exhibition looks at three of New York’s important agricultural products—apples, maple syrup, and honey—with a particular focus on the role of bees and other pollinators in their cultivation. Furthermore, the exhibition examines what we can do to help pollinators thrive in the face of climate change and other challenges.

One out of every three bites of food we eat depends on pollinators. Around the world there are 1,400 crop plants that produce all our food and plantbased products, and most require pollination by animals. Crops such as apples, grapes, cherries, onions, pumpkins, and cauliflower in New York State rely heavily on pollinators. Native bees accomplish about a quarter of insect agricultural pollination in the United States, serving commercial crops such as fruit trees, berries, melons, and garden vegetables. There are an estimated 450 different species of bees in New York and around 430 of these are native bees—the most important wild pollinators. However, a New York State survey, supported by Cornell University, found that more than half of our important native pollinators may be at risk of disappearing. As in other parts of the country, our native bees, and butterflies such as monarchs, are suffering a decline in numbers. Half of studied bumble bee species in the U.S. are in decline, while Monarch butterfly populations have decreased by 80 percent over the last 20 years.

In addition to exploring the mechanisms of pollination and the importance of pollinators for local crops, the exhibition also offers practical tips for ways visitors can help their local pollinators thrive. Designed with accessible interactive components for

children, the exhibition offers useful and engaging information for citizen scientists of all ages.

“The Buzz about Pollinators” is sponsored in part by Nellie and Robert Gipson, and NYCM Insurance.

In conjunction with this exhibition, the Otsego County Conservation Association will host Dr. Jeffrey Heilveil at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15 at The Farmers’ Museum, as part of its “Be Informed” lecture series. Heilveil will speak on the subject of native pollinators. The exhibition will be open 30 minutes before and after the lecture for attendees wishing to view. The program is free and open to the public.

“From well-known bumblebees to leaf-cutter bees, hover flies, and hawk moths, there are hundreds of different pollinator species in Otsego County,” according to an OCCA press release. “The lecture will examine some of our native pollinators and the plants they pollinate, both common and rare, and explore how we can best support these hardworking species.”

Heilveil is a professor and chair of the Biology Department at SUNY Oneonta, where he teaches courses in entomology, aquatic entomology, and stream ecology. His favorite classes are the field-based courses he teaches in the summer on the Thayer Farm property of the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station. His research primarily focuses on how human alterations to rivers affect stream insects. Heilveil earned his master’s and doctorate in entomology from the University of Illinois.

The Farmers’ Museum, located at 5775 State Route 80 just north of the Village of Cooperstown, is currently open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Mondays). Starting May 25, the museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit farmersmuseum. org for more information.

Music Festival Launches Its Season with Special Mother’s Day Concert

COOPERSTOWN

The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival kicks off its 26th season on Sunday, May 12 with a special Mother’s Day program featuring the Ariel Quartet. Known for their passionate performances and remarkable artistry, the Ariel Quartet “will surely captivate the Cooperstown audience with a program featuring Ravel’s evocative String Quartet and Schumann’s masterful String Quartet No. 3,” organizers said in a press release. Attendees will also be able to indulge in classic French madeleine cookies, adding sweetness to the occasion. The “Celebrating Mothers” concert will take place at 4 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 46 River Street, Cooperstown.

“We’re delighted to present the Ariel Quartet for this special event,” said Linda Chesis, artistic director of CSMF. “Schumann’s quartet, with its ‘Clara motif’ expressing his deep love for his wife, is a fitting choice for Mother’s Day. Clara Schumann was a remarkable woman and modern-day inspiration who balanced a thriving career as

a touring concert pianist and celebrated composer with managing a household and their eight children. Clara’s motif is a testament to her enduring influence on her husband’s life and music.”

“We’re thrilled to be part of the festival and celebrate Mother’s Day with music,” said the members of the Ariel Quartet. “We look forward to sharing our love of chamber music and honoring the mothers who have enriched our lives.”

Tickets for the Ariel Quartet’s “Celebrating Mothers” concert are $30.00 for adults and $15.00 for students and children. Tickets can be purchased in advance either online at www.cooperstownmusicfest.org or over the phone by calling (800) 316-8559 and selecting option 1. There is a $2.00 service fee per phone order. Tickets will also be sold at the door, as available.

Founded in 1999 by flutist Linda Chesis, the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

Photo by Wesley Bernard. The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown, New York Plowline: Images of Rural New York. A project of The Farmers’ Museum supported by the Gipson Family. Gift of Wesley Bernard. F0003.2019(02)

Gavin and Angelika Underwood at Underwood Ranch, Unadilla, NY, 2017.

Photo by Elizabeth Nields Marcus Villagran, owner of the Dunderberg Gallery in Gilbertsville, with Barbara Siesel, principal organizer of the summer series “Concerts at the Dunderberg.”

Photo by Daniel Velle

Jazz pianist John Colonna will be featured in three of the seven concerts to be held at the Dunderberg Gallery in Gilbertsville from May through August.

BoE Announces Primaries

OTSEGO COUNTY—The Otsego County Board of Elections announced that there will be Democratic and Republican primaries in June. Democrats in the 102nd state Assembly District (Cherry Valley, Decatur, Middlefield, Otsego, Roseboom, Springfield, Westford and Worcester) will have a primary for assemblymember. Republicans in the Town of Richfield will have a primary for an unexpired council member position. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25. Voters must be an enrolled member of a party to participate in a primary. The last day for new voters to register is Saturday, June 15. The BoE must receive early mail or absentee ballot online or by mail by June 15. Voters may apply in person for ballots until Monday, June 24. Early voting will be held from June 15 to 23. For more information, visit voteotsegocountyny.gov.

Garden Club Receives Grant

RICHFIELD SPRINGS—The Garden Club of Richfield Springs has received a grant for $4,000.00 from the Small Grants Fund of the Community Foundation for South Central New York to support the Gateway Project at the Richfield Springs reservoir.

The Garden Club has been working at the reservoir since 1948, to achieve the mission of improving the quality of life for the community through beautification initiatives. In 1968, shrubs and trees were added to the plantings and in 1996 a grant supported the pump house project. According to a press release, time has taken its toll and the plantings have become overgrown.

Garden Club volunteers have been preparing the site for native plantings and a water supply that will improve the appearance of the reservoir, located at the eastern gateway to the village on State Route 20. Continued work will be required after this phase of the project is completed and the Garden Club has plans to work with other community organizations to take the next steps in the process, officials said.

Summer Hours Now for CFM

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market announced that it will open an hour earlier from May 4 through December. Its new hours will be 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. In addition to returning vendors, a number of new local producers will join the market for the first time this season. They include Bison Island Ranch, offering bison meat, plant-based ice cream maker Vêsucré and Leatherstocking Exotics, featuring bonsai and orchids.

“May is the traditional start to the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market’s new season, when we welcome new and returning vendors as well as beloved spring favorites like asparagus, wild leeks, spring onions, radishes, fresh flowers, and more,” said Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 2000, which operates the market. “There’s no better place to be on

Results of Senior Survey Released

NEW YORK STATE— May is Older Americans Month, and the New York State Office for the Aging released countylevel data from the firstever statewide needs assessment survey of New Yorkers over the age of 60. It is the most comprehensive study of its kind in state history. The full report, including extensive data on all 62 counties, is available at https://aging.ny.gov/ community-assessmentsurvey-older-adults.

Overall, 72 percent of older adults reported “excellent or good” physical health, and 82 percent said the same of their mental and emotional wellbeing. Housing and transportation were identified as priority areas of need. The availability of affordable, accessible health care and services like legal/financial planning, daycare for older adults, and mental health care were also described as problematic by a majority or plurality of survey subjects.

a Saturday in Cooperstown than the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, especially with the promise of springtime in the air.”

Heitz To Speak on Fly Creek

HARTWICK—The Otsego County Historical Association will feature its first educational program of the season on Thursday, May 9 at 6:30 p.m., when local historian Tom Heitz hosts a presentation titled, “The ‘Fly’ in Fly Creek.” Formerly the librarian at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, a longtime employee of The Farmers’ Museum and former editor of “The Freeman’s Journal,” Heitz will discuss the history of Fly Creek, a mill town first established in 1856.

The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Road 11, Hartwick. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served after the talk.

Stefanik Files DoJ Complaint

WASHINGTON, D.C.—New York Congresswoman and Chair of the House Republican Conference Elise Stefanik announced that she filed an ethics complaint with the Department of Justice’s Office of Professional Responsibility against Special Counsel Jack Smith. It alleges that Smith, a SUNY Oneonta graduate who oversees the prosecution of former President Donald Trump in two cases involving alleged mishandling of classified documents and attempts to overturn the 2020 election, is illegally abusing federal resources to interfere in the 2024 election.

‘Sidney Days’ Benefits Helios

SIDNEY—Several local businesses in Sidney announced a special two-day Mother’s Day event to benefit Helios Care. A portion of all sales on Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11 at Amara’s Alchemy, Sidney Flowers and Gifts, Two Rivers Optical, Gavin’s Pizzeria, Machos Tacos, and Joe’s Pizzeria will benefit the patients and families served by Helios. More information, including the hours and locations of participating businesses, may be found at https://www.helioscare.org/events/.

Village Calls for Local Authors

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown area authors are invited to participate in a celebration of local authors during the Village Library of Cooperstown’s 75th birthday celebration, Tuesday, May 28 through Sunday, June 2.

They may join the “Celebrate our Authors” display by sending a photo, a brief bio of their writing experiences and a list of their books to VLOCprograms@gmail.com by Monday, May 20.

Authors can also attend the “Meet our Authors” event at the birthday party from 1-3 p.m. on June 2. Each participant will have space at the library to greet partygoers and, if they wish, to display and sign books. Registration by e-mail is required by Tuesday, May 28. The birthday party will feature

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

“Nothing can ever take away a love the heart holds dear.”

crafts, music, library history, a silent auction, testimonials to the library’s role, remarks by Jane Forbes Clark and cake.

Scholarship Deadline Nearing

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Art Association offers up to $1,400.00 in awards to students planning to pursue art at the college level who will graduate from any Clark Scholarshipeligible school district in 2024. Applications must be submitted via the free online portal by 4 p.m. on Friday, June 7, with no exceptions. Applicants should provide a portfolio of five pieces that best represent their work and artistic abilities. For more information or to apply, visit https://www.cooperstownart.com/art-scholarship.html.

Support Group Announced

ONEONTA—Helios Care will offer a Caregiver Support Group at 1 FoxCare Drive in Oneonta throughout the months of May, June and July. Meetings will be held in the large conference room or virtually from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Thursdays. Sessions will take place on May 23, June 6, June 20 and July 18. The group will help connect local caregivers with others, identify resources and provide strategies for self-care. Grief professionals will facilitate discussions. The group is free to attend, but requires registration by calling (607) 432-5525.

Garden Club Events Planned

RICHFIELD SPRINGS—The Garden Club of Richfield Springs announced save-the-dates for two upcoming annual events. Their plant sale will be held at the Richfield Springs Public Library from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1. The Third Annual Health and Wellness Fair will take place in Spring Park from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 7.

Extreme Heat Subject of Talk

COOPERSTOWN—Connections at Clark Sports Center will host a talk on the prevention and management of extreme heat events for seniors at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 16. Representatives from the Office for the Aging, NYSEG and Clark Sports Center will discuss the danger that these increasingly common weather events pose to older adults, and the steps taken locally to manage them.

‘Madama

Butterfly’ Screened

ONEONTA—Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center will screen Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” the last Metropolitan Opera HD broadcast of the 2023-24 season, at 12:55 p.m. on Saturday, May 11. Tickets are $22.00 for adults, $20.00 for seniors, $15.00 for Glimmerglass Guild members and $12.00 for students. The doors open at 11:45 a.m., with food available before the broadcast and during intermission. There will also be a free educational program about the opera at 12:15 p.m. For more information, contact gdoyle@foothillspac.org or call (607) 434-8458.

SAVE FOR THE SEASON

reiterated.

end. We are now ready to complete that part of the project,” Farmer said.

SAVE FOR THE SEASON

In the intervening years, Farmer continued, it has become clear that the southern launch is too close to docks owned by the Otsego Sailing Club, whose property abuts Brookwood to the north.

Farmer said there have been numerous close calls between paddlers and sailboats, as both types of vessels provide limited operator control.

“We want to get out of the Otsego Sailing Club’s way and have a safer, more accessible launch site as per the original design and intent,” he said.

“We are working with Otsego Area Rowing to provide a safer and more accessible launch by moving it farther away from the Otsego Sailing Club docks,” Farmer stated in an e-mail. “The north side plan does not include any lights, roads or structures. We have applied to the Town of Otsego for a Special Permit to install a low boardwalk over the wetlands within 100 feet of the lakeshore. It will be reviewed by the Town of Otsego Planning Board on May 7 and by the Zoning Board of Appeals on May 21.”

There is nothing new in the proposal with regard to the paddling launch. Only the boardwalk crossing over the wetlands is new, Farmer

According to the Town of Otsego ZBA minutes, on March 19, the Town of Otsego ZBA determined “that the variances needed would be a 35-foot variance on the east (rear or Lake side), and variance from Land Use Law 4.04, which prohibits new construction within 100 feet of Otsego Lake. John Dewey moved to deem the application complete, contingent on the application fee being paid by April 2, and to schedule a public hearing for April 16 with the same contingency. Chairman Crowell seconded the motion and it was approved, 5-0.”

At the public hearing on April 16, ZBA members heard comments both for and against the Brookwood project.

“Acting Chairman John Dewey opened the Otsego Land Trust (OLT) public hearing at 7:00 PM, and noted that the Town does not have jurisdiction over construction on Otsego Lake, only on the land surrounding it,” the minutes read. “He asked if anyone from the public had comments or questions about the application. Steve Talevi, sole Trustee of the Serendipity Trust, spoke at length, reading from a four-page April 16 letter (filed) he had distributed to the members. He claimed he had not received a hearing notice, thus that this was an unlawful hearing. Talevi said that his mother [Vera Talevi]

shares a driveway with the OLT, and they are concerned about a potential increase in traffic. He said that the situation is self-created and the proposed construction will have adverse impacts on the environment. Talevi listed 19 conditions he wanted the Board to impose on the granting of any variances.”

Speaking in support of the project were: Craig Williams, a youth rower who has used the OLT property for the past seven years; Isabel Dudek, also a long-time user of the property; [Cameron] Chardoul; Diane [Moseman], who praised the project’s handicap-accessibility; and Brent Baysinger, who uses the OLT property for kayak sales and rentals in the summer months with the land trust’s permission.

Acting Chairman Dewey also read aloud an April 15 e-mail from Serena Black-Martin, 6056 State Highway 80, which expressed concerns about the size of the proposed floating dock.

According to the minutes, ZBA Clerk Bill Deane “noted that a hearing notice addressed to Frank Maloney was returned to sender as ‘attempted – not known.’ Deane also said that hearing notices, including one to Serendipity Trust at the address of record, were mailed on March 26, and no others were returned to the Town. The hearing was also advertised in the Daily Star, and Talevi was present at the March 19 meeting, when it was scheduled. With no further speakers or correspondence, Dewey closed the hearing.”

Steve Talevi said in an e-mail on Tuesday, May 7 that he and his mother, Vera, are concerned that the continued expansion and commercialization of the OLT property will encourage more use of the single lane unimproved driveway which Vera shares with OLT.

“Indeed, with no restrictions whatsoever,

the property has gone from single-family residential use by Bob and Harry Cook to a multifaceted commercial use which includes boat storage, boat rental, boat launching, and boat landing,” Talevi wrote. “All of these uses encourage vehicular traffic that was not present before OLT owned the property. Conditions have been presented to OLT to minimize the impact of its use of the property, but OLT is not interested in trying to fit into its neighborhood; it wishes only to use its property as it pleases without regard to my mother and others in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, that use is to the detriment of my mother.”

Farmer reported in an e-mail on Monday, May 6 that he had walked the Brookwood property that morning with concerned neighbors Michelle Eastman, Amanda Mahoney and Serena BlackMartin, along with OLT Vice Chair Richard O’Keefe and Lang Keith of Otsego Area Rowing.

“The discussion this morning was tense,” said Farmer, who has admitted to being puzzled by push-back against project details that improve safety and accessibility for free public use and enjoyment of the property.

Brookwood Point Conservation Area is 22 acres on Otsego Lake, located at 6000 State Highway 80, just north of the Village of Cooperstown. The property includes a creek, wetlands, formal gardens, fields and woodlands. OLT acquired Brookwood Point in 2011

through a merger with the Cook Foundation for the Preservation and Beautification of Cooperstown and Otsego Lake, Inc. Under the Cook Foundation, Brookwood Point was open to the public. OLT agreed to merge with the Cook Foundation and acquired the responsibility of stewarding Brookwood Point with a sound plan for conservation and with the intention of keeping it open for public enjoyment. Brookwood Point is an essential site for public universally accessible canoe/kayak use on Otsego Lake and for starting a canoe/ kayak journey down the Susquehanna River via the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

According to Farmer, OLT worked with a Citizen Advisory Committee in 2011 and 2012 to develop a management plan for the Brookwood Point Conservation Area. In the final report (May 2012), the Citizen Advisory Committee endorsed a strong statement:

“The highest priority for the site’s reuse is to maintain public access, primarily to create low impact public uses that include walking/hiking trails, non-motorized boat access, use of the formal gardens and other leisure activities that would not interfere with conservation goals.”

The results of the Town of Otsego Planning Board meeting on Tuesday, May 7 were not available at press time. Meanwhile, “no paving, no excavation, no development,” Farmer said.

tion seems to be based on two incorrect premises: one, that the Zoning Board of Appeals will permit the installation of a dock, and; two, that approval of the variance will allow OLT to operate a recreational facility including a commercial paddleboard rental operation.

First, as the ZBA made clear at a recent hearing, the ZBA does not issue dock permits. Dock permits are issued by a state agency, the DEC. Second, almost nine years ago the OLT applied for, and was granted, a permit to operate a recreational facility. OLT’s application included its intent to allow a third party to operate a commercial kayak/paddleboard rental facility. The application also contained a provision that a non-motorized boat launch would be provided.

At least one Brookwood neighbor has complained of traffic. But the operation of a recreational facility, perforce involves traffic.

OLT’s permit application anticipated some 50 visits a day. In the years I’ve been involved with OAR, the most visits I’ve seen is 12, when we conduct youth camps twice a summer.

Other opponents are asking the ZBA to impose special conditions on the OLT’s recreational facility. Aside from the fact that a new walkway hardly creates the need for such conditions, the Planning Commission, when it issued OLT a recreational use permit, wrote in the Special Conditions of Approval section: “NONE.”

No one likes change. But this change is well within the permit’s recreational use parameters.

I submit that we are extremely fortunate that a charitable organization stepped up to acquire and maintain Brookwood Point. Thanks to OLT all of us, not just a privileged few, have access to a lovely lakeside area and Lake Otsego. We can visit its gardens, walk on its trails, birdwatch, picnic, kayak, paddleboard, and yes, row, all because nine years ago OLT decided to provide our community with a wonderful recreational area.

I hope the ZBA will do the right thing and approve the application.

Lang Keith Cooperstown

Experience

Important

The Cooperstown School vote on Tuesday, may 21 presents a proposed budget for the next school year and a slate of six candidates for three positions. I am a current member seeking to serve another term.

my beliefs remain in the importance of meaningful education and the responsibility of a school board as a taxing entity for clear financial visibility and prudence. my commitments for district spending are learning opportunities for students, the health and safety of students, support of school personnel, and sound

facilities. Furthermore, learning opportunity includes academic, social and emotional development.

Another reason I have to continue is to see the furtherance of our K12 linkage of subject content, whereby each grade advances student learning in a planned and purposeful way. This strategy incorporates staff who bring individual support services to students who need or want help with areas of learning. This strategy has been worked through over a number of years and presents teachers, students, and parents with a clear pathway of academic progress.

A final reason, unique to now, is that CCS has been through a spin cycle of change for 10 years with administration and staff, state demands for new administrative positions, and a turnover of school board members. These are not quickstudy positions.

There is currently no board member in CCS who has been in place for a single three-year term. I am the exception, and have been encouraged to remain for perspective on past situations, decision choices, and results. As for the public turmoil that has come to a head this year, we are now on track and confident to finish the school year, and resolved to begin the next term on a clear course and even keel.

Please look at next year’s proposed budget and call a board member with questions, or attend the public budget hearing on may 8 and take part in the League of Women Voters Candidates Night on may 13. Both at CCS. Anthony Scalici Cooperstown

Not Happy with OLT

my subject is the Otsego Land Trust and further commercialization of the Brookwood Point property formerly owned by Bob and Harry Cook, which is now owned by OLT.

OLT wants to expand use of its 22-acre site to allow for greater access and use by the general public. The property, when Bruno and I purchased the house in which I now live, was owned by Bob and Harry Cook. It was for singlefamily use—just Bob and Harry. Sadly, Bob and Harry eventually passed away and their home fell into disrepair. Eventually, the property was transferred to OLT. Ordinarily, I would have loved to have OLT as a neighbor. Believing that OLT holds itself out as an organization dedicated to preserving land in its natural state, I was pleased to have OLT as a neighbor. However, OLT’s conduct, as it affects my enjoyment of my home, has caused me both stress and distress.

OLT has asked the Town of Otsego Zoning Board of Appeals to vary the terms of the town’s land use law to allow it to encourage more people (and cars) to access its property for boating, weddings, and other gatherings of any number of people. I share the driveway used

by OLT, with OLT as a neighbor. There should be no alcohol, no tents, children should be accompanied by an adult, daily hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. should be posted, seasonal months should be posted, and no amplified music should be allowed.

The next meeting of the ZBA is Tuesday, may 21 at 7 p.m. in the Town of Otsego Town Hall. Such uses would be in addition to the commercial rental of kayaks and boats OLT already allows on the property. I have asked OLT to agree to conditions that would lessen the impact of their increased commercialization but, so far, I have heard only crickets from OLT’s side of the fence.

needs and treatment.

emotionally

In addition, OLT is in the process of asking the Town of Otsego Planning Board to approve a site plan that will permit it to move its launch site to a location that will allow more boats and people –without security and no check-in and check-out provided.

more boats and renting space are a greater commercialization of the property than the Cooks ever envisioned.

If you agree with my position against granting variances without conditions, sought by OLT from the Town of Otsego ZBA, or the site plan approval from the Town of Otsego Planning Board, please contact the decisionmakers of the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Vera Talevi Cooperstown

Cruelty Case Is Ongoing

I wanted to provide folks with an update from the recent animal cruelty case the Susquehanna SPCA is assisting with, involving more than 100 animals. The New York State Police, in conjunction with the Chenango County District Attorney’s office, have allowed us to release two photos from the scene that were taken on the day of the seizure. Charges are still pending, as the case is ongoing.

Please note that the photos shared today (one of which is shown above) do not show the scale of what we witnessed on April 26, but rather offer a glimpse into what we faced. We located more than a dozen deceased animals in various stages of decomposition both in and out of farm buildings. Additional photos to help people understand the seriousness of the case, though they will break your heart, will be shared when charges are made and announced.

The SQSPCA is still in high gear with regard to this case, as we are providing care for the dogs, calf, sheep, pigs, and equines who were saved that day. many require special, veterinarydirected care in order for their health to improve. We have a new, full-time staff person dedicated to caring for these animals and to coordinating their

As this case unfolds, we hope others who may question their ability to properly care for their animals will reach out to our network for help. At the SQSPCA, we have the Here to Help Hotline at (607) 547-8111, extension 108, which coordinates with our Farm Friends network. In one situation, we assisted a farmer who was unable to find affordable hay for his cows one winter. While we weren’t able to find him hay at that time of year, we did help him find silage that he could afford and it got him through to spring. There are other organizations, such as the Farm Bureau, who may be able to help as well.

The bottom line is that there is always a way to get help and people should understand that not providing animals with the basics (food and water) and allowing them to be sick and/or suffering without veterinary care is against the law and our law enforcement officers take it seriously. There is no excuse.

You can trust that I will share additional information with you as soon as it comes to light. Thank you so much for caring about this case. Our biggest need now is financial support to help us cover daily expenses and veterinary visits.

We send many thanks to everyone who has reached out with encouraging words, as this has been physically and

Stacie Haynes Executive Director, Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Photo provided

Both living and deceased farm animals were found in this barn during the seizure on April 26.

Crowd Gathers for County’s Second Steampunk, Oddities Event

By EMILY HILBERT ONEONTA

Merriment, mischief and the macabre were all on display at the Otsego County Steampunk + Oddities Expo on Saturday, April 20. Presented by the Eastern Otsego Farmer’s Market, as well as Steamstress & Co., this is the second time the event was held and the first time in Oneonta, this year at Fortin Park. The poster for the event invited guests to “join us for a day of debauchery in Oneonta, NY. Vendors, artists, authors, demonstrations, curated playlists, food trucks, and more.”

The park had two large, interior spaces with open walls for vendors to set up on either side, and even more vendors and artists

set up outside on the lawn. Thankfully the rain was polite enough to wait until the end of the event to make an appearance, but the wind was whipping the whole time, making it feel significantly colder than it was supposed to be.

That didn’t deter guests, however, and some used it to their advantage for photos in whatever fun outfits they came in. The real victims in this story were the vendors, both outside and inside, who were in fear of having their stalls blow away. Thankfully, most came prepared, and only a few items for sale blew a little to the left.

Hair extensions, body adornments, henna tattoos, and even real tattoos were available, as well as wares of all kinds for sale, but the most common items one could find walking around

Vendors and exhibitors were set up both inside and outside for this year’s Steampunk + Oddities Expo.

were jewelry, resin art and 3D printed objects.

One such vendor was Pipe Fox Shope, run by Jim Lucas and Gabby Saj. The pair had all kinds of

Supplemental SummonS and notice of object of action

Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Otsego

Action to Foreclose a Mortgage

Index #:

EF2023-651 Nationstar Mortgage LLC Plaintiff, vs Mark Madero as heir to the estate of Joseph J. Madero, Daniel F. Madero as heir to the estate of Joseph J. Madero, unknown heirs of Joseph J. Madero if living, and if he/she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except

as stated, are unknown to plaintiff, people of the state of New York, United States of America on behalf of the IRS, Patricia J. Madero as heir to the estate of Joseph J. Madero, Samuel A. Madero, Sr. as heir to the estate of Joseph J. Madero

John Doe (those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s).

Mortgaged Premises: 111 Broad Street Morris, NY 13808

To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Otsego. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of

the Mortgaged Premises.

TO Unknown Heirs of Joseph J. Madero Defendant in this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Brian D. Burns of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twelfth day of April, 2024 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Otsego, in the City of Cooperstown. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated June 29, 2019, executed by Joseph J. Madero (who died on June 1, 2020, a resident of the county of Otsego, State of New York) to secure the sum of $75,750.00.

The Mortgage was recorded at Instrument Number 2019-3016 in the Office of the Otsego County Clerk on July 10, 2019. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 20, 2022 and recorded on January 5, 2023, in the Office of the Otsego County Clerk at Instrument Number 2023-062. The property in question is described as follows: 111 Broad Street, Morris, NY 13808

HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE

NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

3D printed items, from dice towers, to fun moving animals, to musically functional ocarinas. Usually, 3D prints are hard and sturdy, but the two specialized in

LEGALS

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME.

IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME.

PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE

The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1800-269-0990 or visit the department’s website at WWW.DFS. NY.GOV.

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE

a special kind of filament that resulted in a squishy product. They used this filament for their potion jars, which also hold dice. Lucas says their goal “is to encourage the next generation of creators. If people see us and it inspires them to buy a 3D printer, I’ve done my job.”

Also excited to be at the event were Kate and James McKay from Andromeda’s Alchemy. Their specialty was sewn crafts and gifts, with everything from bags, to patches, to hair décor, and even stuffed animals, like the giant dinosaur chicken nugget. Everything is handmade by Kate in their home, so it truly is a one-woman show. The McKays said it was their first year at the expo, after being recruited by a friend who was a fellow vendor, and they hope to be able to

THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW.

FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS

Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer

on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

DATED: April 16, 2024

Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221

The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 80449 4LegalMay.16

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notice of foRmation of Scott Boys Farm LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on 04/18/2024. Official Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom

come back next year. They thought the day went well and were happily surprised by the good turnout. James is also the director of the North County Comic Con (Nococon, or NCC), which is set to take place later this year in Watertown. Andromeda’s Alchemy will be in attendance there, as well.

After exploring what the vendors had to offer, visitors were able to walk around the grounds to hear some of the live music, as well as see how the dueling was going in the small arena set up toward the end of the green.

As the day drew to an end and the weather began to turn, vendors and attendees alike began to pack their things and head home, eagerly looking forward to what next year will bring.

process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1444 County Highway 10, Laurens, NY 13796. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalMay.30

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notice of foRmation of ROCKY HILL HOMESTEAD & FARM LLC.

Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) on 02/23/2024. Office Location: Otsego County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 124 Harmouth Rd., Burlington Flats, NY 13315. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. 6LegalMay.30

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notice of foRmation of limited liability company (llc).

Name: B&S Farms, LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/05/2024. NY office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is 7717 State Highway 7, Maryland, NY 12116.

Purpose/character of LLC: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalMay.30

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notice of foRmation of VRH3, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 04/02/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 31 Bloom Street, Gilbertsville, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act. 6LegalMay.23

LegaL nOtice notice of foRmation of

Sal Pal Enterprises LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/27/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 496 Eggleston Hill Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalMay.23

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notice of foRmation of Worms Waste Not, LLC

Articles of Org. filed w/ SSNY 3/13/2024 Otsego County.

SSNY designated agent for process and shall mail to Worms Waste Not, LLC, 189 Main Street, STE. 500, Oneonta, NY 13820

General Purpose. 6LegalMay.23

LegaL nOtice application foR autHoRity of

SCHWEDE

L.L.C.

Articles of Org (NYS foreign entity L.L.C.) filed with NY Sec. of State 03/13/2024. NY location, Otsego Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: SCHWEDE L.L.C., 332 Adams St., #3R, Hoboken NJ 07030. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalMay.9

LegaL nOtice notice of public Sale

Public Notice is hereby given Under Sec. 182 NYS Lien Law, that property described as contents of storage unit, will be sold at public auction at 6 PM on May 10th, 2024 at Rt. 23 Self Storage of Oneonta, 8745 St. Hwy. 23, Oneonta NY. The sale of such property is to satisfy the lien of Rt. 23 Self Storage of Oneonta on property stored for the accounts of:

Photo by Emily Hilbert

HEAT

Continued from page 4

up installation. ORES can ignore local legislation and even reasonable environmental safeguards in project permitting. Last year’s budget requires communities to use an assessment formula supplied by Albany, cutting tax revenue by up to 80 percent. As reported (4/30/2024 Times Union), a dozen towns in Schoharie are suing the state over the current assessment model. Combined with eminent domain authority for developers to run wire and poles—in this year’s budget—we can expect significantly more pushback from communities. Environmentalists concerned with preservation of farmland and forest, increasing eagleand-bat deaths, as well as water supply threats from large wind installations, are also raising their voices.

Who will pay for NY HEAT? The cost of a $672-million bailout for a few of the hundreds of thousands of utility customers currently in arrears will be borne by other utility customers. Every New Yorker will help fund subsidies for industrial solar and wind projects which could gobble up a million acres

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell at Online Public Auction pursuant to New York State Lien Law, Article 8, Section 182, per order of North Street Storage, 14 North Street Oneonta, NY at www.bid13.com.

The personal property described as household goods heretofore stored with the undersigned by Katelyn Becker, Unit 3 beginning on 08/ 31/23, Jordan Valentine, Unit 8 beginning on 11/24/23, Javier Macias, Unit 42 beginning on 10/13/23 and Pamela Murphy, Unit 24 beginning on 11/27/23 .

All sales are subject to prior claim, postponement and/or cancellation.

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF Bimbercurly, LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/15/2024.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC

and yet fail to provide reliable electricity. It continues to be a mistake to let political appointees and Big Green organizers craft energy policy. CLCPA and NY HEAT do not meet the fiscal or engineering standards needed to shape a reliable, carbon-free grid.

Dennis Higgins is a retired math/computer science professor. He and wife Katie run a farm in Otego and, as a family, they are committed to addressing climate change any way they can, including 20KW of solar panels, geothermal heat, all electric appliances, and driving an EV. Dennis has been engaged in regional energy issues for approximately 15 years.

NFTN

Continued from page 5

Habilitation three days a week. Lunches will include vegan, glutenand soy-free, and refined sugar-free options, catering to many dietary restrictions and preferences. They will also provide comprehensive training in food production, restaurant skills and operations, meal preparation and food safety, and cooking techniques. In order to foster a thriving and intercon-

upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 174 Cemetery Rd. Fly Creek NY 13337.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose

6LegalJun.6

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY

Name:

D & S PILOT CARS LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8 March, 2024. 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 148 Brighton Road, Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY

Name:

BLUE CHIP FARM PROPER-

nected community, it is essential to prioritize opportunities for growth and collaboration among employees, people with disabilities, and the greater Oneonta community. By coming together, leveraging our strengths, and sharing our perspectives, we can build a vibrant ecosystem that supports the well-being and success of everyone involved and creates a flourishing and healthy community.

Patricia Kennedy is chief operating officer at Springbrook.

Wooden

Continued from page 1

Directors at EDD Adaptive Sports. “If you looked around the gym, you couldn’t spot a single face without a smile. And if there’s one thing that we want the students to take away from today, it’s a greater level of compassion, empathy, and understanding.”

Wooden and fellow exercise science senior Sarah Faulisi trained the other student volunteers on how to interact and work with the EDD participants. Faulisi and Wooden received a Student Research and Creative Activity grant funded by the SUNY Oneonta Foundation and SUNY Oneonta Alumni Association for their

project, to develop a national online training program on educating volunteers working with athletes with disabilities.

Wooden and Faulisi presented their project, titled “Empowering Volunteers: Developing a Comprehensive Volunteer Training Program for Adapted Sport Events,” on Thursday, April 25 during the annual Student Research and Creative Activity showcase on campus.

“Research has shown that often people have big hearts when it comes to supporting athletes with disabilities, but don’t always have the proper training to provide developmentally appropriate coaching strategies,” said Dr. Katherine Griffes, assistant professor of Sport and Exercise Sciences and the faculty sponsor for Faulisi and Wooden’s research project.

“Sarah and Graham have provided this training for all student volunteers and will be turning this training into online modules to make them more accessible for other groups who work with adapted athletes.”

Including Wooden, 18 of the student volunteers were from the SUNY Oneonta men’s and women’s basketball teams. The basketball teams picked the drills

LEGALS

diseased trees.

TIES LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8 March, 2024. 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 650 County Highway 27, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF COmPLETION OF THE TENTATIVE SOLId WASTE USEr FEE rOLL

Notice is hereby given that Otsego County Solid Waste Department has completed the tentative Solid Waste User Fee for 2024. The Solid Waste User Fee Roll contains solid waste billing units established for each parcel. A copy has been filed in the Solid Waste Department Office located at 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown, New York.

Individuals interested in examining the tentative

roll may visit the Solid Waste Department during normal business hours or an electronic copy can be viewed online at the following web address: https://www. otsegocounty. com/departments/ solid_waste/ solid_waste_user_ fee.php

Kyle King 607-547-4225 solidwaste@otsegocounty.com Otsego County Solid Waste 1LegalMay.9

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEArING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearings in the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York on Monday, May 20th, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard, to discuss the following:

Proposed Local Law No. 4 of 2024 - Amend the Zoning Law 300-31(c) Supplemental Environmental regulationsamendments related to tree removal creating reporting requirement and limits for removal of healthy, invasive, and

they wanted to teach to EDD’s athletes, resulting in a rotation through four stations that focused on dribbling, shooting, passing and defense. With participant ages ranging from six to 60, modified basketball hoops and other equipment allowed every athlete to maximize their performance.

“I’ve been working with individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities since high school,” said Faulisi, who expressed the importance of educating volunteers and making sure they adopted an adaptive mindset. “There’s just this stigma. If you tell someone that they can’t do something, or they think they’re not able to do something, they’re never going to try it.”

The basketball clinic concluded its second annual event with EDD Adaptive Sports President Rosalie Higgins and Board Director Mackey announcing the awards each athlete won. Each participant ran through a tunnel of encouraging arms created by the student volunteers, reaching Wooden and Faulisi at the end for a fist-bump, highfive or hug.

“My favorite part is just providing the opportunity,” said Wooden. “Inclusivity, I think, is something that is imperative: providing opportuni-

ties for every population. That’s always my priority. It’s very fulfilling to see the smiles on every athlete’s face. They always have something that they can take from this experience.”

LWV

Continued from page 1

tion and the Public Library Tax Proposition. The budget for 20242025 is available on the district website, at https:// www.cooperstowncs.org/ documents/budget/20242024-budget-documents/610257.

The election will be held at Cooperstown High School, 39 Linden Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Any citizen 18 years of age or older who has been a resident of the district for 30 days preceding the election is qualified to vote. Absentee ballots are available at the district office by contacting Maria Field at (607) 547-5364.

We Want tO ceLeBRate YOU! Promotions, births, events, new hires, milestones, grand openings, awards, meetings, opinions, results of sporting events, personal bests, weddings and more. Photos welcome, too. info@allotsego.com

Any resident of the Village of Cooperstown is entitled to be heard upon said local law at such public hearing. Disabled citizens, who require assistance in attending said public hearing, or in furnishing comments or suggestions, should contact the Village Clerk to request assistance. Copies of the proposed law are available for inspection at the Village Clerk’s office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York during normal business hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dated: May 6, 2024

By order of the Village Board Village of Cooperstown

Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.org 1LegalMay.9

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NOTICE OF COLLECTION OF VILLAGE TAXES VILLAGE OF COOPErSTOWN

PLEASE TAKE

NOTICE, That the Village of Cooperstown, New York have received the tax roll and warrant for the collection of the General Village Tax of the Village of Cooperstown for the fiscal year beginning June 1, 2024 and ending May 31, 2025. Taxes will be collected in two equal installments by mailing to the Village Treasurer’s Office, Village of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, N.Y. or may be paid online at www.cooperstownny.org under the payment tab at the top of the page from June 1, 2024 and by November 1, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The first installment to be collected from June 1, 2024 to Sunday, June 30, 2024 without additional charges.

TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that on the first installment of all such taxes remaining unpaid on July 1, 2024 (5%) five percent will be added for the first month and an additional (1%) one percent for each month and fraction thereafter, until paid or returned to Otsego County Treasurer.

VILLAGE TREASURER

VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN

22 MAIN STREET, PO BOX 346 VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. 2LegalMay.16

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY

HAMMERSTONE DEVELOPMENT LLC

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 22 April, 2024. 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 4886 St. Hwy. 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY

D&W BUCKLEBERRY BAR LLC

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 15 March, 2024.

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 775 Up County Rd., Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY

D&W CREEKSIDE PROPERTIES LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 15 March, 2024. 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 775 Up County Rd., Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION

OF A NY LImITEd LIABILITY COmPANY.

NY PRECISION LINE STRIPING LLC

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 20 February, 2024. 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 761 County Highway 52, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FOrmATION OF Big Lion Little Bear LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/27/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 496 Eggleston Hill Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalJun.13

►Friday, May 10

AGING 10:30 a.m.

“Medicare 101.” Class to provide an overview of Medicare health insurance, including an explanation of Parts A, B, C, D and more. A Medicare counselor will be available to answer questions. Registration required. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 Main Street, Richfield Springs. (607) 432-6144.

SENIOR MEALS

11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal Monday-Friday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $10.60 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of cheeseburger deluxe, corn, spinach and chocolate ice cream. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. (607) 547-6454.

ART CLASS 1-4 p.m.

“Figure This! Open Studio Life Drawing.” Pop-up, non-instructional workshop with nude models holding a long pose. Hosted by a Cooperstown Art Association member, who will be present to field questions and comments. Fee. Cooperstown Art Association classroom, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5479777.

LIBRARY 1 p.m.

“Homeschool Hangout at the Library.” Join other homeschool families for stories, activities, crafts and learning. Recommended for ages 5-18. Held each Friday. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

OUTDOORS 1 p.m.

“Homeschool Nature Walk.” Registration required. Presented by the Otsego County Conservation Association. Fetterly Forest Conservation Area, 302 Roses Hill Road, Richfield Springs. (607) 547-4488.

POTTERY 1:304:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters are

invited to work on personal projects and hone their skills. No instruction provided. $30/session. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Thursday 6-9 p.m. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org.

SALE 3-7 p.m.

“Estate Garage Sale.” Furniture, dressers, lamps, tools, household items, kitchenware, more. Contines from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 5/11. From Elizabeth Lamont at 50 Woodside Drive, Oneonta. (434) 229-1859.

CHICKEN DINNER

4:30-6 p.m. “Chicken BBQ Dinner.” Eat in or take out. Fee. Laurens American Legion, 11 Main Street, Laurens. yreckert@yahoo.com.

DINNER 5-7 p.m.

“Fried Fish Dinner.” Includes beer-battered fried haddock, French fries, coleslaw, dessert and a beverage with dinein. Take-out available. Open to the public. Fee. Oneonta Vets Club, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.

CONCERT 7 p.m.

“Live at the Mansion: Brian Halliday & Wyatt Ambrose Duo Concert.” Original music and creative covers. Admission, $15. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. Visit facebook. com/CANOneonta

►Saturday, May 11

BIRDING 8-10 a.m.

“Oneonta Susquehanna Greenway Bird Walk” with the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society. View returning migrant birds during this easy hike. Registration required. Greenway Trail, Silas Lane trailhead, Oneonta. (607) 434-4880.

MEMORIAL RIDE—8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 9th Annual Eric Ericson Memorial Ride. 80 mile guided ride through Otsego, Schoharie and Delaware counties

hosted by the NY Red Knights Chapter 44. Fee. Starts at Laurens Fire Department, 34 Main Street, Laurens.

FIREARMS 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “NRA Basic Pistol Course” with F&C Firearms. Learn the skills and attitude needed to safely and proficiently use a pistol. $150 includes firearm rental, ammunition, range fees and lunch. Oneonta Sportsmen’s Club, 251 Rod and Gun Club Road, Oneonta. training@fcfirearmsny.com.

CONSERVATION

9 a.m. to noon. “Butternut Creek Riparian Stewardship Day.” Steward a riparian forest with the Butternut Valley Alliance and the Upper Susquehanna Coalition. Registration required. Bailey Road, Morris. Visit otsegooutdoors.org/event/butternut-creek-riparian-stewardship-day-2/

KIDS YOGA 9-11

a.m.”Pretzel Kids Yoga.” Free class for girls in grades 2-4. Registration required. Includes healthy snack, discussion on mindfulness, more. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-1451.

EXHIBIT OPENING

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “The Buzz About Pollinators.” Interactive exhibit about bees and other organisms that make farming possible. Explores the topic of pollinators in New York State, climate change, and other threats that pollinators face, and how the public can help. The Farmers’ Museum, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.

PLANETARIUM Learn about the cosmos in three presentations. $3/person/show. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, West Dormi-

tory Road, Oneonta. (607) 436-2011.

• 10:30 a.m. “Max Goes to the Moon.” 35minute film following a dog named Max on his journey to the moon.

• 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.” 45-minute tour showcasing the constellations currently in the sky.

• 1:30 p.m. “Out There: The Quest for Exoplanets.” Learn about how astronomers search for planets beyond our solar system.

GARDEN 11 a.m. “Bugs and Biology: Partners for Better Gardens.” Learn integrated pest management with Cornell’s Dr. Amara Dunn-Silver. Free, open to the public. Registration requested. Presented by the Otsego County Master Gardeners at the Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. (607) 5472536 ext. 235.

SPRING—Noon. “CityTown Clean Up Day.” Clean up the community with town and city officials. Gloves and bags available. Meet at 258 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6450.

OPEN STUDIO 1-4 p.m. “Wheel Throwing with Karla Andela.” Adults only, registration required. Fee. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. Visit canoneonta.org/the-studio

OPERA 1 p.m. Doors open at noon. The Met presents “Madama Butterfly.” Tickets required. Lunch available for purchase. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.

WORKSHOP 1-3 p.m.

“Make Beeswax Wraps with Jessica Capeci.” Registration required. Fee.

Materials included. 25 Main Collective, 21 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-4025.

WRITERS GROUP

1:30-3:30 p.m. Supportive group to practice writing exercises and receive feedback. Session held through May 18. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

VOLUNTEER DAY

2 p.m. “What are Dynamic Accumulators?” Learn about the Northeast SARE-funded research study on dynamic accumulator plants and help with spring maintenance on several beds containing these species. Unadilla Community Farm, 5937 County Highway 18, West Edmeston. info@unadillacommunityfarm.org.

ANNUAL DINNER

4 p.m. “Annual Brooks’ Chicken BBQ.” Dinners include chicken, coleslaw, potatoes, a roll and dessert. Pick-up only. Richfield Springs Fire Department, 34 East James Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 922-4881.

CONCERT 7:30 p.m.

“A Musical Odyssey with Copland and Tchaikovsky” with the Catskill Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by the Catskill Choral Society. Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. contact@catskillsymphony.org.

►Sunday, May 12

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! BIRDING 8-10 a.m.

“Spring Bird Walk at the DOAS Sanctuary.” Spot returning migrants, ranging from warblers to orioles and possibly raptors. Walk requires some hill-climbing and hiking over uneven ground. Mud possible. DelawareOtsego Audubon Society Sanctuary and Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta. (607) 2678491.

MOTHER’S DAY 9:30 a.m. Mother’s Day pancake breakfast with eggs, pastries, coffee and more. Connect Church, 4354 State Highway 80, Hartwick. (844) 8472871.

WRITING 1-3 p.m.

“Cooperstown Writers Group.” Held each Sunday. Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.

CONCERT 4 p.m. Cooperstown Summer Music Festival presents a special Mother’s Day program with the Ariel Quartet. Christ Episcopal Church, 46 River Street, Cooperstown. Fee. (877) 666-7421.

FAREWELL 4 p.m.; doors open at 3 p.m. “The Mothers of Intention: 20th Anniversary and Farewell Show.” Tickets, $10. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

►Monday, May 13

EXERCISE CLASS 9-10 a.m. Exercise each Monday and Thursday with an instructor. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309.

PLAY & LEARN

10 a.m. Guided sensory learning for children aged 5 and under. Held each Monday. Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.

SENIOR WALK 10-11 a.m. Seniors walk the track and gym floor with Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.

CONNECTIONS 10:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. “Spring Painting Project with Marjorie Landers.” $20/ person includes supplies. Registration required. Presented by Connections at Clark Sport Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown.

EXERCISE 2-3 p.m. “Choga Flow.” Chair yoga led by certified instructor. Cost, donation of 1 non-perishable food item for the Richfield Springs Food Pantry. Held each Monday. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 West Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0230. BLOOD DRIVE 2:306:30 p.m. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. Visit RedCrossBlood.org