The Freeman's Journal

We Have Re-Opened our Outdool Living & Garden Center! Come See Us!

New Asbury Gardens 248 River Street Oneonta 607-432-8703 newasburygardens.com

Oneonta’s Main Street Offers a Variety of Shopping Options

By EMILY HILBERT ONEONTA

Oneonta: the City of the Hills, and the city with a bustling main street. Much like our article on Cooperstown’s business district a few weeks ago, we once again ventured out of the newsroom to check in with some local business owners. What’s their business like? Anything in the shop they really enjoy? Any deals or events readers should be anticipating? All this and more will be revealed as we take a trip to downtown O-Town.

Craving a sweet treat? Recently opening in the center of activity, at 179 Main Street, Freestyle Confections is run by Vincent and Rebekah Hopkins. A husband-and-wife duo ready to bake the city by storm, the pair run a home

bakery for now, as they work on securing a commercial kitchen. Vincent does the baking while Rebekah runs the business and gift shop side of the bakery. The pair enjoy everything about the store, but the baking is where the passion really is. Currently, Vincent is enjoying testing out different bread recipes. Want to stop by? Freestyle Confections is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Can’t make it to the physical location? Don’t worry, they deliver. Rebekah remarked that they make deliveries to SUNY Oneonta campus almost daily and are very grateful for the support of the school. Subscription deliveries can also be arranged. If one bakery isn’t enough, try this one out. The Sugar Beat, at 281 on upper Main Street, specializes in French

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LaCombe Set To Deliver Inaugural Svahn Lecture

COOPERSTOWN

Bassett Healthcare Network will host the inaugural David S. Svahn Humanities in Medicine Memorial Lecture at Bassett Medical Center at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, May 24. Cardiologist and storyteller Dr. Michael LaCombe will deliver the lecture, which is available in person or via Zoom at bassett.org/Lacombe-lecture. The event honors the late Dr. David Svahn, a longtime Bassett physician who passed away in July 2023.

up to now? page 6

►cAlendAr, page 12

Dr. LaCombe is the author of more than 100 peerreviewed stories of medicine and more than a dozen books, including “Bedside: The Art of Medicine,” a collection of fictional stories drawn from his experiences. In addition to readings and lectures, theatrical performances of his stories have been recorded for use in medical ethics and humanism training.

“It is a great honor to host Dr. LaCombe,” said Dr.

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Representatives of the League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area reported a lively and informative two-hour panel with Cooperstown school board candidates on the evening of May 13. “I believe there were about 60 constituents in attendance. The questions from the floor covered a range of topics, from the broad question of what the school board does to narrower questions about providing foreign language instruction in the elementary grades and instruction in the arts,” reported Hudi Podolsky. “There was a lot of discussion about the need to improve communication, both within the district and with the public. There was also discussion of falling enrollment and state mandates. The conversation was polite and respectful, and Maureen [Murray] and her timekeeper, Nancy Potter, did a great job of keeping things moving. Pictured above are Padraic MacLeish, Matthew Monahan, Mary Beth Murdock, Keith Parr, Anthony Scalici and William Streck.

Board Candidates Make Case for Support Amid Controversy

By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN

On Tuesday, May 21, Cooperstown Central School District residents will vote on the 2024-25 proposed school budget. They will also choose three Board of Education members from a slate of six candidates: Keith Parr, Padraic MacLeish, Matthew Monahan, Mary Beth Murdock, Anthony Scalici and William Streck.

Both Monahan and Scalici are sitting board members whose terms expire on June 30. Monahan has two children currently enrolled at CCS and Scalici has served on the Board of Education for 30 years. All four of the challengers also have close ties to the school. Parr is married to science teacher Amy Parr. Padraic MacLeish has five children in the school system and his wife, Shelby, is coordinator of the CCS Kid Garden. Murdock is a former CCS teacher and a prior president of the Cooperstown Faculty Association. Streck’s daughter, Molly Richtsmeier, is also a teacher at CCS.

The Cooperstown Faculty Association—also referred to as the Cooperstown Teachers’ Association— has endorsed candidates for the first time in recent memory. Parr, Murdock and Streck get the nod from the association, which represents regular full-time, part-time, probationary or tenured teachers of the district. A flier reportedly being circulated to members of the community refers to the trio of candidates as “pro-public schools.”

In response to e-mail inquiries sent last week to both Anne Reis and Rebecca Burke-Sciallo—president and vice president of the CFA, respectively—asking why the association chose to endorse candidates this time around and not before, an e-mail from unionpresidentcfa@gmail.com said:

“In conjunction with New York State United Teachers, the Cooperstown Faculty Association has joined in a long-standing practice implemented across the state of New York of endorsing candidates for the local school vote. Teachers are at the forefront of a school district’s success. As educators, the Faculty Association understands and values the election process. The members have endorsed three very qualified candidates that will bring a fresh perspective as well as incredible support for our students, our teachers, our district, and the members of our local community.

“It is wonderful that the Cooperstown community has six candidates, and the CFA would like to thank each candidate for their interest in CCS; we value the time put into the process and look forward to our continued collaboration. If any community members know that they are interested in running for the Board of Education in the future, the CFA looks forward to speaking and working with you.

“We wish all of the BOE candidates the best of luck!”

Responding to questions raised by the public regarding the CFA’s endorsement of candidates, President Reis

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Photo by Hudi Podolsky

Photo by Emily Hilbert

Oneonta’s Main Street offers a plethora of dining and retail options.

BVA Task Force Enlists SFCU for Banking Services in Morris

By TERESA WINCHESTER MORRIS

The Butternut Valley Alliance has achieved the nigh to impossible. It has responded to the national epidemic of branch bank closures in general, and to the closing of the Morris branch of Community Bank, NA in particular, by securing new banking services for the Butternut Valley—services from which much of western Otsego County will benefit.

According to U.S. government data from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, more than 220 bank branches closed in the United States in January and February of

this year. If banks across the U.S. continue to shut down at the current rate, approximately 1,300 will close by the end of 2024, the OCC finds.

Following the national trend, CBNA has, in the last four years, closed a total of 44 branches, many of them in rural or underserved communities. Closures in Otsego County have occurred in the towns of Otego, Milford and Schenevus. CBNA has also closed banks in the Delaware County towns of Downsville and Fleischmanns. On January 19 of this year, CBNA closed its doors at 132 Main Street, Morris, thus ending 167 years of banking at that location, vacating a handsome stone building listed on

•

the National Register of Historic Places and delivering a sucker punch to the vitality of the village.

Five months after CBNA’s closing in Morris, the BVA has announced a partnership with Sidney Federal Credit Union. SFCU will now take the necessary measures to open a fullservice branch in Morris. This development comes as a result of proactive steps taken by the “Save Our Bank” task force, composed of BVA board members Ed Lentz, Bob Thomas, Tom Washbon, Jason Cianciotto, Peter Martin and task force leader Maggie Brenner. Task force members at large are former Town of Morris Supervisor John DiStefano, Jim Tremlett, Arlene Martin and Andrea Hull.

To reestablish banking services based in the Village of Morris, the Save Our Bank task force sent a statement of need to more than 15 financial institutions to explore their interest in expanding operations to the Butternut Valley.

The criteria outlined in the statement of need included:

• Matching interest rates and other account benefits for Community Bank account holders who might transfer their accounts to a new provider;

• A night depository or some ability to safely hold daily cash transac-

tions for businesses;

• An ATM or nocharge cash access, check depositing and cashing capability for residents;

• Access to cash for businesses (making change, filling tills);

• Ability of towns and villages to make large deposits (cash and checks) within 24 hours of receipt;

• Affiliation with a nearby brick-and-mortar facility for other banking needs, such as financial guidance to residents and businesses.

Requests for proposals were sent to the three institutions that responded favorably. The two institutions under final consideration met all these criteria.

“In the end, it came down to a choice between

two credit unions, both of whom were able to meet the needs of Butternut Valley residents, businesses and municipalities,” said Ed Lentz, BVA chair and member of the task force. “It was a tough choice, but we ultimately decided that, on balance, and taking into account the local name recognition of SFCU, partnering with SFCU was the best decision for our community at this time.”

“We look forward to serving the residents of the Butternut Valley and welcoming them to the experience of how SFCU is making banking easier,” said SFCU Chief Executive Officer Jim Reynolds, who added that SFCU is currently one of the fastest growing credit unions in New

York, with a membership of more than 70,000 and assets totaling more than $980 million.

SFCU is applying to the New York State Department of Financial Services for designation as a Banking Development District. This designation will make the branch opening financially feasible and, notably, will also allow municipalities to bank with the credit union. In general, New York State law prohibits municipalities from banking with credit unions; however, with the initiation of the BDD program, the law was amended to allow municipalities that support a BDD application to bank with the partnering credit union.

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Photo by Teresa Winchester

Members of the Butternut Valley Alliance’s “Save Our Bank” task force meet in Morris to discuss details of the newly forged partnership with Sidney Federal Credit Union. Task force members include, from left, BVA board members Ed Lentz, chairman, Tom Washbon, Maggie Brenner, Bob Thomas, and members at large Jim Tremlett and John DiStefano. Not pictured: Jason Cianciotto, Peter Martin, Arlene Martin and Andrea Hull.

Festival Appoints New Honorary Life Trustees, Board Members

COOPERSTOWN

The Glimmerglass Festival has announced the appointment of Robert Nelson and Van Broughton Ramsey as the company’s newest Life Trustees. This change to the organization’s leadership was formalized during the organization’s April board meeting, which also welcomed two new Trustees, Georg O. Budenbender and Tim Lord. Nelson, who served as chair of The Glimmerglass Festival Board of Trustees from 2019-2023, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as a Life Trustee, officials said. He is a former real estate developer and served as the vice president and chief financial officer of Michael Novarese, Inc. early in his career, as well as museum director for The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising from 1999-2008. Throughout his four-year tenure as chair, Nelson showcased exceptional leadership during particularly challenging years for the company. According to a press release, “His unwavering dedication was evident as he invested countless hours collaborating with staff to navigate the unprecedented global pandemic, including staging the innovative 2021 ‘Glimmerglass on the Grass’ season. Among Nelson’s many achievements as chair was leading the successful search for current Artistic and General Director Rob Ainsley.

Joining Nelson as a Life Trustee is his spouse, Emmy Award-winning costume designer Van Broughton Ramsey. Known for their generosity and commitment to fostering a sense of community, the couple has opened their home to The Glimmerglass Festival for years, hosting events, meals, and festival artists. Ramsey has volunteered his time and expertise to the festival as a speaker for the Apprenticeship Seminar Series, sharing his advice for the next generation of designers. Nelson and Ramsey have provided substantial financial support for the festival, with a particular focus on initiatives like the youth opera

and supporting Young Artists. Additionally, they spearheaded the establishment of the Zambello Gay Tribute Fund, which honors the festival’s previous artistic and general director, Francesca Zambello, and her wife, nationally renowned lawyer Faith E. Gay, and inspired countless others to contribute.

“Robert and Van are pillars of the Cooperstown community and figureheads of the Glimmerglass family; all who meet them are impressed by their warmth and hospitality. Their selfless generosity and

Springbrook, Vêsucré Announce Partnership

Springbrook is partnering the Otsego County 2024 Breakthrough Business, Vêsucré—a local company that creates plant-based, soy, gluten, and refined sugar-free desserts—to create The Makery and The Maketeria, located at Springbrook’s Oneonta Campus. According to a press release, The Makery and Maketeria are part of a collaborative project between Springbrook and Vêsucré, aimed at providing comprehensive training and employment opportunities for people with intellectual or devel-

opmental disabilities in the food production and culinary industries.

The Makery will provide hands-on training for individuals who receive services through Springbrook to learn food production and restaurant skills, including meal preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety. Individuals will have the opportunity to work in various areas such as food service, manufacturing, and development, and will be supported by Vêsucré’s team alongside Springbrook employees.

Vêsucré Chief Executive Officer Sarah Hartmann is passionate about

employing people with I/DD and currently employs participants from Springbrook as well as The Arc Otsego through supported employment programs. Vêsucré will utilize kitchen space at

advocacy touches so many organizations and causes in the area, but Glimmerglass has been by far the luckiest recipient of their passion, dedication, and expertise. My personal gratitude to Robert for his role in bringing me to this great company and community is equaled only by the gratitude of our staff and rrustees for his years of leadership,” shared Ainsley.

Ainsley continued, “Robert’s stalwart resolve and guiding hand as board chair undoubtedly saw the organization through one of the most challenging periods in history for the performing arts; we are very fortunate to benefit from his ongoing guidance in his new role as an Honorary Life Trustee, the highest mark of respect we are able to bestow.”

“Hearing from Michael Young, The Glimmerglass Festival trustee chair, that we both had been nominated for the esteemed position of Honorary Life Trustee was an exciting moment,” wrote Nelson and Ramsey in an e-mail on Tuesday, May 14. “Being nominated, and then voted upon by your fellow trustees, is quite a process. We both are quite humbled by this award, and want to take this moment to thank our local community for their support of the festival.”

New Trustees Georg O. Budenbender and Tim Lord bring their unique expertise and passion to the organization. Budenbender, the retired president and chief executive officer of E.ON North America, Inc., is an avid mountaineer, having conquered major peaks around the world. Lord, co-founder and coexecutive director of the Bronx-based nonprofit DreamYard Project, is dedicated to supporting young people as they work toward higher learning, meaningful careers, and social action. The Glimmerglass Festival is excited to welcome these exceptional individuals to its Board of Trustees, further strengthening its commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, officials said.

Springbrook’s Oneonta Campus to produce lunches as well as Vêsucré products.

Hartmann said, “We’re tremendously excited to launch this collaborative

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Photo by Brent DeLanoy

Van Broughton r amsey and r o B ert n elson

ONEONTA

APerspectives

Tough Travels

mong the many scenic routes in this state, the two lake roads we have at the northern end of the county, the longest in an area of beguiling lakes and inviting lake roads, wind courageously up and down Otsego Lake. They are pretty spectacular. They give us, at different times and from different vantage points, remarkable bird’s-eye views of the often sparkling but occasionally threatening waters –we can peer endlessly all the way up, or all the way down, the lake –and intriguing close-ups, where we can look the flourishing flora and fauna right smack in the eye. But it was not always like this.

The first lake road was built on the east side in 1787, specifically for the wife of William Cooper, who strongly objected to returning to Springfield by canoe. This road was crude, but nevertheless strong enough for Mrs. Cooper’s coach and horses, who were stabilized by men walking alongside holding ropes attached to the top of the coach to keep it from tipping over. This first road lasted a mere five years, but another attempt was made in 1795: two dirt tracks with some grass between them, built near the ridgeline high above the lake to lessen the need for bridges across the many streams. James Fenimore Cooper used this road in the mid-19th century to reach his Chalet Farm, just under what is now Star Field. The road was paved after World War II and the Pathfinder bridge was fixed for the first of a number of times. Recently a few parts of that section of the road, high up on the ridgeline, have come tumbling down into the lake, causing chaos and closure.

Until the early part of the 19th century, there was no road along the west side of the lake, until at long last the State of New York chartered the Otsego Lake Turnpike, in 1818. This road took a rather circuitous route from Cooperstown to Springfield, beginning in the village and then moving up along a ridgeline to Pierstown, on what is now the Pierstown Road, and then on to Richfield Springs by way of Rum Hill. There is an arm of the road that goes back to the lake, dropping down through Mohican Canyon on what is now Canyon Road, to Five Mile Point, where the Five Mile Point House (later called the Tunnicliff Inn) welcomed travelers. The final portion of the Turnpike, also called the Springfield Turnpike, went north from Five Mile Point to Springfield, where it terminated at the Third Great Western Turnpike, coming from Cherry Valley. (This turnpike follows roughly a stretch of our present Route 20; Route 20 now runs from New England to the Pacific Northwest.)

Farther south, Thayer’s Hotel at Three Mile Point was reached along the lakeshore from Cooperstown, but this is where the road from the village stopped. Perhaps the area along the lake north of Three Mile, to Five Mile, with many cascading streams flooding the roadway and a steep shoreline falling into the lake, was not good terrain for a stable road.

The West Lake Road, as we know it, began as a plank road, built between 1850 and 1870 on the site of the Otsego Lake Turnpike but also including the lakeside stretch north from Three Mile Point to Five Mile Point, providing transportation for stagecoaches, and tourists, to and from Cooperstown from Fort Plain, in the Mohawk Valley. These roads were of heavy planks about five feet in width laid atop timbers, with space on either side for drainage ditches and for passing, with privatelyowned tolls every three miles or so. Considered at first to be the answer to road construction, sadly, but predictably, they did not

On Natural Climate Variability

The rationale for changing New York’s energy system away from fossil fuels in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act is the alleged link between climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. This presumes that natural climate variability is not appreciably affecting the observed recent warming. I think that presumption does not stand up to scrutiny.

The video “Climate the Movie: The Cold Truth” (https://youtu.be/v_NPby_ p5Lg) includes a very good description of historical temperatures and CO2 trends. It provides examples why claims that today’s observations indicate unprecedented heat in earth’s history are wrong. Over geologic time scales, temperatures today are not at all unusual and because we are in an ice age, all previous non-ice age geologic epochs were warmer. Over the last 2,000 years there has been a Roman Warm Period and a Medieval Warm Period, and both had temperatures warmer than today. As shown in the following figure, over the last 175 years temperatures have been warming up since the end of the Little Ice Age but carbon dioxide emissions have only risen sharply over the last 75 years. That means that natural climatic variability must have driven all the warming observed prior to 1950.

From 1910 to 1944, there was little

change in the carbon dioxide trend, but the temperature trended up markedly and in a similar fashion to the recent observed warming. Carbon dioxide emissions don’t start to rise significantly until the end of World War II in 1945, but from 1944 to 1976 the global temperature trended down. Since then, temperature and carbon dioxide correlate well. The Climate Act presumes that the recent correlation proves causation but ignores the fact that prior to 1976 there is no correlation.

Although the satellite data only goes back to 1979, this is the most representative data set because it covers the entire globe equally. Over the last 10 months, the NASA satellite data temperature observations show a spike of observed global warming and record high temperatures that is an unprecedented climate event. The fact that this event was not accompanied by a spike in carbon dioxide emissions also contradicts the Climate Act rationale.

Scientists are still debating the reason for the recent increase in temperatures. One possibility is the Tonga-Hunga underwater volcanic eruption that blasted unprecedented amounts of water vapor into high levels of the atmosphere. Water vapor is more effective than CO2 as a greenhouse gas, so this could be part of the reason for the recent warming spike. It also injected

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Graphic provided

Figure from https://andymaypetrophysicist.com/2024/03/26/annotated-bibliography-for-climatethe-movie/ Continued on page 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

“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.

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

Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Richard

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

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Otsego County • Village of Cooperstown • Village of Milford Cooperstown Central School District

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Subscription Rates: Otsego County, $69 a year. All other areas, $89 a year. First Class Subscription, $155 a year. Published Thursdays by Iron String Press, Inc. 21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326 Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. Email: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com

Perspective on Brookwood Point

The Otsego Land Trust’s plan to relocate and improve public access to Otsego Lake at Brookwood Point has illuminated differing views on how that property should be managed, and I want to contribute some of my own. As a member of the small group of concerned locals who blocked the sale of part of that property to a private developer in 2008, I’ve watched events unfolding since then with great interest. Now I want to share details I believe have been conspicuously absent from the public discussion.

Brookwood Point operated as a corporate entity since the incorporation of the Cook Foundation in 1985. The deed transferring Brookwood Point to the foundation board (Otsego County, NY Deed Book 703, pp 645-648) states:

“The property conveyed herein is subject to the following restrictions which shall be observed by the Cook Foundation and any of its successors-in-interest, and shall run with the land:

2. No buildings of any sort shall be erected on the property which shall materially affect the natural beauty of the site.

3. Nothing shall be permitted to take place on the property which would constitute a public nuisance either visually or audibly.

4. The preceding covenants may be waived, but not extinguished, on particular occasions by the written approval of at least 80% of the total number of trustees then serving on the Board of Trustees of the Cook Foundation.”

1. The property shall not be subdivided or sold for commercial or residential purposes.

Present Launch

Site Preferred

Ronald E. Bishop Cooperstown

The acquisition of Brookwood Point by the Otsego Land Trust was instigated in part and partially financed by me for use as a community rowing facility—specifically to teach high-school students to row. I discouraged the Cook Foundation from selling Brookwood Point to Richard Hanna and encouraged OLT to buy it when the Town of Otsego refused to acquire it for a park. We donated the funds to pay the land trust’s legal fees to acquire the land and have the deed amended. I also drafted a lease for the land trust to lease part of the site to provide community access for rowers. It is one of the only places on the lake that has community access for rowers.

The lake is very shallow

By 2008, the Cook Foundation faced a crisis of mounting maintenance costs and dwindling funds that exposed what proved to be an impractical corporate model. Our blocking the private sale only intensified their dilemma until the Otsego Land Trust agreed to assimilate the Cook Foundation board and take over stewardship of the property. Since then, I think they have diligently balanced the competing interests of being a good host and a good neighbor, overseeing just enough commercial activities to pay the bills. I urge the Otsego Town Board of Zoning Appeals and Town Board—and all engaged parties—to consider these facts as they consider their next actions.

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

by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART

160 YEARS AGO

Important War News—The very day upon which our last paper was printed, the powerful armies of Grant and Lee met in dreadful conflict and once more the blood-stained hills and valleys of Virginia echoed and re-echoed the sound of booming cannon. For several weeks Gen. Grant had been concentrating his forces and perfecting his arrangements; and, as soon as ready, he “moved upon the enemy’s works.” The accounts at hand, up to the hour of writing this article are meager and mostly unofficial. The last mail may bring something more satisfactory and definite. The battles of Thursday and Friday were contested with an obstinate courage. The losses of both sides were heavy and prisoners were captured by both armies. Gen. Grant brought up his reserves on the second day, when Lee was forced back after desperate fighting. That night Lee retreated and Grant started in pursuit Saturday morning. The skill of Gen. Grant and the courage of our soldiers lead us to hope that the army of the rebels may be defeated and Richmond captured.

May 13, 1864

85 YEARS AGO

The Cooperstown Centennial nine opened its season here Sunday afternoon with a bang, providing some 250 spectators with a fourteen-inning thriller against the Utica Outlaws and winning in the last of the fourteenth when, with the score knotted at 4-all, and a man on base, Les Bursey poled a homer into the right field bleachers in true Horatio Alger style. Bursey had been out of baseball for the past two seasons and had not the remotest idea of coming back in this year, until after putting his high school team through spring practice. Les took a few swipes at the ball himself while the kids looked on and found his batting eye keener than ever. That put the idea in his head and there he was Sunday afternoon patrolling center field and banging away at the ball. May 17, 1939

60 YEARS AGO

A trial away from Cooperstown was ordered Monday in a $625,000 lawsuit brought by a Cooperstown housewife who contends she was libeled in the paperback novel “The Sex Cure.” The book, authored by Mrs. Isabel Moore under the pen name of Elain Dorian, reportedly has Cooperstown as its setting. Supreme Court Justice Robert O. Brink found that a fair and impartial trial might not be held in Otsego County because “truthfully or not” the book allegedly exposes the private mores of local citizens. The trial will be held in Cortland, New York. May 20, 1964

35 YEARS AGO

The Bop Till You Drop Spring Fever Dance Party will kick off at 8 p.m. on May 20 in the banquet room of the Sportsman’s Tavern in Fly Creek. The Rubber Band Band featuring lead guitarist Jack DuPont will play music that ranges from reggae to rock to rhythm and blues. The dance party is a Gallery 53 Artworks benefit sponsored by the Bold Dragoon, Northern Eagle, Oneonta Grocery Co. the Sportsman’s Tavern, Stewarts and Video-Deo.

May 17, 1989

20 YEARS AGO

Festival: With Gratitude for Our Community

Last month, we announced two initiatives to celebrate and thank our local community. One in particular, our Neighbors’ Nights initiative, in which we are offering $35.00 tickets on Thursday nights in August, sparked a reaction. In the weeks since that announcement, friends throughout the community have reached out to us expressing their gratitude, excitement and, to our surprise, some concern.

Thank you. Thank you for reaching out, for asking questions, and for feeling so deeply about this organization and all we do. This kind of support (support that has been ever-present for nearly 50 years!) is what inspired us to plan Neighbors’ Nights. And we have been planning Neighbors’ Nights for some time now—proactively and strategically allocating funds to subsidize the costs of these nights.

We have long been aware that ticket prices can be a barrier for many people who would love to attend a performance here at The Glimmerglass Festival. Setting ticket prices is a delicate act of balancing the financial needs of the organization with the financial realities of the world around us. This is why we partnered with our sponsors— Honorary Life Trustees Faith E. Gay and Francesca Zambello, Trustee Patricia Chadwick, and Amica Companies Foundation, and longtime supporter Andrew Martin-Weber—to offset the costs associated with Neighbors’ Nights tickets. These sponsors understand that in order to fulfill our mission of providing enriching cultural experiences for ALL in our community, we must maintain a sustainable financial model. They have made that possible.

By MERL REAGLE

...we have been planning Neighbors’ Nights for some time now—proactively and strategically allocating funds to subsidize the costs of these nights.

One sponsor we all love and admire, Francesca Zambello, had this to say about Neighbors’ Nights: “Although I am not working at Glimmerglass, my heart and soul are always with making opera, music, and theater accessible to all. My wife, Faith, and I wanted to help the festival with a special ticket offer for Neighbors’ Nights. We hope you will take advantage of this gift to the community.”

It is no secret that performing arts organizations throughout the country are under intense financial pressure. Emerging from the global pandemic, the cost of everything from labor to supplies has gone up, while audience behaviors have changed and long-established support for the arts has withered. Glimmerglass is not immune to these changes. And while we do need our community more than ever, Neighbors’ Nights is not a solution to these problems. It is simply our way of sharing our gratitude for a community that will ensure we weather these trying times.

We hope you are excited to share these evenings with your friends and family. We are certainly excited to see you all this summer at the festival! To take advantage of Neighbors’ Nights, call the Box Office at (607) 547-2255, Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Rob Ainsley is the artistic and general director of The Glimmerglass Festival.

The Man in the White Suit…

FCO’s Steampunk Sensation

The winter doldrums seem to have lingered this year, but that lingering was suspended during Fenimore Chamber Orchestra’s latest performance on March 16. The concert opened with a delightful, and seldom heard, performance of Martinů’s “Nonet.” All the folk music idioms are fully employed by the composer. This charming work is witty and a tribute to the folk music of the composers’ native land, Czechoslovakia. The melodies themselves intertwine like a beautiful, flowering vine that seems to be in unending flower. The soft, undulating jazz witticisms brought out the very best collaborative work from these polished musicians.

The big surprise of the afternoon came via “SteamPunk” (which gave the concert its name), by David Bruce. A truly contemporary and quite clever work, it has gone on to be widely performed by leading ensembles around the world. The composer himself mused he first came across the word “steampunk” when a friend introduced him to a collection of strangely futuristic lights, clocks, and other objects that he’d fashioned out of copper pipes and other scrap materials. Wild fanfares on French horn and clarinet begin the mysterious journey, spiraling celestial mechanisms all within the world of tonality, however bent out of shape.

After intermission, Louis Spohr’s

gorgeous “Nonet in F major” was given a rare outing. This is another one of those inexplicably neglected works of art. In this piece, the composer has more than succeeded in presenting the essential character of each of his chosen instruments. He creates a very sunny atmosphere throughout, even employing a German Ländler into the second movement.

None of this could have come off without the virtuoso playing of the nine orchestra members who presented this program. Solo playing was cleverly employed with abandon and yet, ensemble playing produced a massive, beautiful as well as unique sound which belied the number of instruments on the stage. The playing of the French horn, a notoriously temperamental instrument, by Douglas Nunes was especially notable for his “take no prisoners” performance of several amazingly difficult and virtuosic passages. The success of this performance is again a tribute to Music Director Maciej Żółtowskiand his superior skill at building and, more importantly, balancing an ensemble. The capacity house certainly enjoyed itself and let it be known via a thunderous ovation. We look forward to the final concert of the season on Saturday, June 1.

Karolina Hopper is a regular contributor to “The Freeman’s Journal.”

Help! Potcake Likes To Chew

Dear Dog Charmer, We adopted a Lab mix named Potcake six months ago. She’s now 9 months old and fine in every way, except for her constant chewing on furniture— wood and cloth. Her favorites are chairs and couches, and we are at out wits’ end! She’s fine in the crate, but when out she’s relentless. We’ve tried bitter apple and similar products, to no avail. Please help.

Joan A.

Dear Joan,

I can appreciate your frustration. Most budget planning doesn’t include destroyed furniture replacement. Dogs, like people, are creatures of habit, and she’s clearly “habituated.” Basically, training a dog is letting the dog know you like, or don’t like the behavior, AS IT’S HAPPENING.

Let’s start with toys that should be more enticing than chair legs and couch pillows. All kinds of treatdispensing toys are now available at pet stores and online. Not to mention the old basic hollow marrow bone with a piece of chicken or peanut butter wedged in the middle. However, being habituated, Potcake is still likely to go back to the chair or couch when she gets momentarily bored with a particular toy. That’s when she needs to understand your displeasure with her behavior.

When Potcake’s out of the crate, she gets to drag a 4- or 6-foot cheap leash with the handle cut off (less

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likely to get caught on anything).

The moment you see her starting to chew anything inappropriate, calmly pick up the end of the leash and give it a slight jerk telling her “Uh uh.”

Then give her one of her toys. If you need to be out of the room when she’s out of the crate, if feasable, set up a mirror so you can see her. This is also a good time for what I refer to as the “Dog God,” the God of dogs that sees all, all the time, and corrects unwanted behaviors.

Joan, using the mirror, imagine Potcake’s response if you were to bang two pots together just as she put her mouth on a chair leg. She would probably screw herself through the ceiling in startlement. And what’s she going to relate that scary noise to? Answer—chewing the chair leg. The Dog God is always watching!

Every time Potcake gets to chew on a piece of furniture, her “habit” strengthens. So for now, because her destructive chewing is habitual, if she can’t be observed, she needs to be in the crate. Stay vigilent and she’ll come around.

Good luck!

Many Happy Returns of the Day

COOPERSTOWN—Friends of Carrie Southworth feted her 95th “birth anniversary” with a surprise party on Thursday, April 18. Southworth was joined at her home for the festivities by friends, neighbors and fellow church parishioners. Jean Finch said of Southworth, “She’s a remarkable woman. Really quite something.” Pictured above are, front row: Mary Clarke, Carrie Southworth, Jean Finch, and Irene Parker; and, back row: Sharon Chambers, Marion Terpening, Connie Lewis, and Peg Walrath.

To Cut or Not to Cut Back?

For some time now, we have been wrestling with this issue: how and where to start cutting back. We have spent so much time and energy building up the place that contemplating a slow-down is wrought with a host of conflicting feelings. So, what is the hold up? Habits are hard to break. And a reluctance to admit to ourselves that our energy levels are not what they used to be… Yesterday, while driving the tractor up the hill, now fully loaded with gardening tools, supplies, etc., I stopped by the three topless satellite poles that have been bugging me ever since getting the fiber optic hookup we have been waiting for what seems like forever. Well, I thought, since I am here and have what I think are the appropriate tools, why not dig up just one pole? Two hours later, sweat dripping from my forehead and through my flannel shirt, shoulders and arms pleading for a respite, I gave up the ghost. The lesson learned: yeah, you feel pretty robust, still, but you ain’t the same guy who could work at stuff like this from dawn to dusk and actually not feel anything but satisfaction with few minor aches and pains.

and Italian varieties. One approach, which makes sense, is to just plant one garden. There is ample space in either garden to provide for the two of us. Planting more over the years worked because our kids and their kids visited more frequently and they always drove away with plenty of produce. And we could share what we did not need with friends.

Dog Charmer Tom

Tom’s book, “Dog Training Diaries,” was judged as one of the three best training books by Dog Writer’s Association of America. Tom Shelby, The Dog Charmer Cooperstown author, answers pet owners’ questions on training their dogs. E-mail your questions to dogsrshelby@msn.com

The most effective way of cutting back is by listening to your wife, always a good idea. It is just a question of letting the male invincibility instinct take a break. Seeing me looking pretty bedraggled, Sandy suggested leaving the last two poles in and turning them into bluebird nesting box poles. Great idea, I said. Why didn’t I think of that? No reason to state the obvious here. This scenario has played itself out many times over the past 52 years. One needs to come to grips, and it is so very hard, with, well, reality... It should not be so hard. As one who sees himself as somewhat stoical, in the philosophical sense, I ought to be better at this sort of thing. By that I mean accepting one’s naturally ebbing stamina. We pride ourselves in doing what is necessary to stay in good physical condition. Been pretty successful at that. Just can’t do the dawn to dusk thing anymore. The tradeoff, and it is a good one, is spending more time on cerebral pursuits, like what I am doing right now—writing. On some Saturday’s, I walk with a good friend. We start out by walking down the hill and, as we pass the vegetable gardens, I opine that this will be the year we cut back. We have two gardens, upper and lower, each about the same size. I have experimented with multiple varieties of everything for as long as I can remember. I did cave some years ago and agree that upwards of 20 kinds of lettuce might be a bit much. I’ve always been drawn to the seductive names of exotic French

Gardening is a labor of love, but over time the labor part trumps the love part—knees ache faster, arthritic digits stiffen, lower backs get creaky. We are committed to sitting down and making the hard cuts. We no longer need the quantities we’ve become accustomed to. Fortunately, our berry bushes and fruit trees do not require inordinate amounts of attention—they pretty much take care of themselves. Toward late winter I did finally get around to pruning most of the apple trees. We’ll see how good I am at that! We also pruned many of our blueberry bushes, having put that off for way too many years. Yields will most likely be down, but even then we’ll have enough for our modest needs. Actually, procrastination can be a tenable adjunct to any workload reduction program. Just can’t let things to get too messy. There are aesthetic standards to maintain.

With respect to a smaller garden, a plan that we stick to might be the answer. I claim to have crafted some plans over the years, but I’ve never actually followed any of them. My inclination is to fill every available space, which is fine if you want a jungle rather than a well laid out, easy to maintain vegetable garden. Even as I write this, meaning every word, the idea of sticking to a pre-determined plan gives me the willies. Therein lies the problem. I have never felt like my natural self when constrained by reason. Cramps my style.

Of my many questionable proclivities, among the most obvious, is my preference for the philosophical over the practical. Philosophically, one can argue quite convincingly in favor of a particular way of being or seeing the world. Or, one can just get down to brass tacks and suggest that the most efficient way, for instance, of cutting back is, well, to cut the crap, make a plan, and stick to it. Where’s the fun in that? Considered philosophically, such an approach is a drag, stifling. In closing, I can see that I face the same conundrum that I started with. So be it.

Dick deRosa’s Hawthorn Hill essays have appeared in “The Freeman’s Journal” since 1998. A collection, “Hawthorn Hill Journal: Selected Essays,” was published in 2012. He is a retired English teacher.

ThE dOG chARMER

TOM ShELby

hAWThORN hILL JOURNAL

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While the BDD process can take six to 12 months, SFCU plans to begin offering limited services in the very near future by appointing a business development representative to assist businesses and residents in opening accounts. Opening a temporary field office is a possibility.

SFCU is headquartered in Sidney. An overview provided on Linkedin.com states, “SFCU is a full-service financial institution providing the tools and resources members need to make banking easy and convenient.” The same source also states, “SFCU membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Fulton, Hamilton, Madison, Montgomery, Onondaga, Otsego, and Schoharie counties and portions of Broome, Oneida, and Herkimer counties.”

At the time of its announced closing, CBNA’s motto, “Bank Happy,” did not resonate with Morris bank customers. The “nearby location” CBNA offered up in its October 2023 letter is 28 miles round trip from the Morris branch. Local residents expressed concerns about the elderly in the community who did not

Earle William Hayford 1944-2024

COOPERSTOWN—

Earle William Hayford (Bpaw), 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 6, 2024 in Saint Augustine, Florida. He was born on April 29, 1944 in York, Maine to Virgil and Mary Jane Hayford. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he dutifully served his country.

Earle, being a diligent and hard worker, then enrolled in night classes to complete his bachelor’s degree while also supporting his family, having a successful career in medical sales. Later in life, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit by owning the Cooperstown Diner and Cooperstown Back Alley Grille in Cooperstown, New York.

Earle was very fortunate to have shared 59 years of marriage with the love of his life, Janet Bostwick Hayford. Throughout his life, Earle touched the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his

drive, those who were not computer-savvy enough to switch to online banking or who preferred to bank in person rather than online, and the thriving Amish community whose members do not operate motorized vehicles. Treacherous winter road conditions between Morris and Oneonta were also a concern.

CBNA’s departure also poses an inconvenience for area businesses and municipalities, requiring them to travel greater distances to make their deposits, thus increasing transportation costs. State law mandates that town clerks and town courts deposit monies received within one business day.

Town of Butternuts supervisor Bruce Giuda responded with unrestrained enthusiasm to the announcement about SCFU services, stating in an e-mail communication:

“I would like to recognize the tireless efforts of the Butternut Valley Alliance task force on the creation of this Banking Development District. It is truly a testament to the power of local folks in local communities who are looking out for their neighbors. The BVA has met the challenge by overriding the motives and actions of Community Bank, which has disregarded and abandoned all the residents and businesses

in the Butternut Valley. I will definitely be meeting with Sidney Federal Credit Union representatives to discuss establishing a new banking relationship between them and the Town of Butternuts. I highly recommend that all the residents and businesses in the Butternut Valley do the same, which will strengthen the new SFCU branch in Morris. Many thanks to the leadership of Ed Lentz and the rest of those involved in this remarkable accomplishment.”

Save Our Bank task force leader Brenner looked back on the group’s work with the satisfaction of a job well done.

“When the task force began its work nearly six months ago, it really felt as if we were butting our heads against an impenetrable corporate brick wall, but it turns out we became ‘the little alliance that could.’ It shows what can be accomplished when a dedicated group of individuals with diverse skills, but all with a commitment to the welfare of their community, come together with a focused mission. Our next challenge is to work with CBNA to try to ensure that the historic building it formerly occupied is put to good use for the Butternut Valley community—to preserve that component of our legacy,” Brenner said.

Partners

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venture with Springbrook. The Makery is all about creating opportunities and spreading joy for local individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. With Vêsucré operations now at Springbrook, we can continue to provide hands-on food manufacturing experience while empowering people with valuable skills in food production and restaurant operations. The Makery is our chance to shine together, celebrating talent and togetherness every step of the way!”

The Maketeria will serve as a healthy “makea-meal” eatery located on the Springbrook Oneonta Campus and will provide lunches three days a week for individuals at Springbrook’s Capstone Day Habilitation program. The lunches will cater to dietary restrictions and preferences, officials said.

Executive Director of Springbrook Community Connections Kim Corbett added, “We are thrilled to partner with Vêsucré, who shares in so many of Springbrook’s beliefs around wellness and Employment First as central to operations. Having Sarah, Charlie, and Gwen as partners in this work will help to advance inclusivity and community integration, bringing industry innovation to the forefront.”

OBITUARIES

Finneran To Hold Meet, Greet

CHERRY VALLEY—Mary Finneran, Democratic candidate for the 102nd New York State Assembly District, will hold a meet-and-greet from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. It will take place at 721 County Highway 54 in Cherry Valley. Refreshments and light fare will be available.

Hanford Mills Open for Season

EAST MEREDITH—Hanford Mills Museum will open for the 2024 season on Wednesday, May 15. It will be open 10 a.m. through 5 p.m, Wednesday to Sunday, through Tuesday, October 15. Guided tours of the water-powered sawmill, gristmill and woodworking machines are offered each day at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations may be made at hanfordmills.org or by calling (607) 278-5744. The museum will host a number of Exploration Days during the season that will feature local organizations and vendors and hands-on activities for children. Saturday, June 15 will highlight pollinators, native ecosystems and agriculture. There will be a celebration of Delaware County dairy, featuring freshchurned vanilla ice cream, on Saturday, July 20. Metal at the Mill Exploration Day, including the Dan Rion Memorial Antique Engine Jamboree, will take place on Saturday, September 7. Woodsmen’s Exploration Day will be held on Saturday, October 5.

Concert, Fundraiser Planned

COOPERSTOWN—A Cooperstown Christmas Movie, Inc will hold a “Christmas in July” concert and fundraiser at The Lake House on Canadarago Lake from 3-7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 7. Doors open at 2 p.m. Leatherstocking Trolley will provide a free shuttle from Doubleday Field in Cooperstown at 1:30 and 2:30 and from Spring Park in Richfield Springs at 2 and 3, with return shuttles at 7:30 and 8:15. The concert stars King Konye, Kathook the Band, and Dan Toth and Audio Riot. All ticket holders can register to be considered for paid extra roles in the movie.

Carpenter To Discuss Egypt

HARTWICK—Local poet, author and editor Brenda-Louise Carpenter will share highlights of her 2018 journey to Egypt at Kinney Memorial Library in Hartwick at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. A graduate of The American University in Cairo, Carpenter will discuss the myths and realities of the western idea of Egypt.

charismatic, generous, and loving energy, which he shared generously with his friends and family. In his free time, Earle enjoyed traveling, fishing and golfing.

Earle is survived by his wife, Janet; sister Sandra (Alton) Dunn; son Scott Earle (Jessica); daughter Susan Dawn (Michael) Malota; and grandchildren Ryan Hayford, Dylan Hayford, Colin Hayford, Alexis (Jordan) Lobinsky, Hailey (Kenneth) Jenkins, Michael Malota, and Zoë Malota. He is also survived by a greatgranddaughter, Amelia, who has another sibling on the way!

Earle is preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Mary Jane Hayford.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Riverside Cottages in Saint Augustine, Florida in honor of Earle Hayford. Earle William Hayford (Bpaw) will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those he loved. May he rest in peace.

Charles W. Lamb

1938-2024

COOPERSTOWN—

Charles William Lamb, PhD, whose career as a clinical psychologist in Cooperstown spanned over five decades, passed away following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease in the earlymorning hours of Monday, April 29, 2024 at Woodside Hall in Cooperstown with family

by his side. He was 86.

Born March 29, 1938 in Englewood, New Jersey, Charlie was a son of Charles Lamb and Justine (Clay) Lamb. He spent his early years in Englewood and later in West Winfield, New York, where he learned to love basketball, golf, and the outdoors. Charlie enjoyed spending his summers working as a camp counselor and vacationing in Lake Placid. The family moved to Fremont, Ohio, where he met Lois Ann Deppen. They married in 1957 and together, they started their family. Charlie graduated from Oberlin College in 1963. After earning his PhD in clinical psychology from The Ohio State University in 1966, Charlie became the director of psychology at Columbus State Hospital. From 196869, he was an assistant professor of psychology at SUNY Buffalo. In 1969, the family moved to Cooperstown when

Charlie became the chief psychologist at Bassett Hospital.

In 1978, Charlie married Barbara Jorgensen. Theirs was a love story for the ages, and he remained devoted to Barbara through his final days. He was an avid boater, and meticulously cared for their wooden boat, Lambcruiser. Together, Barbara and Charlie cruised Otsego Lake, enjoying sunsets, nature, and all creatures great and small. Charlie was passionate about golf and was a regular at Leatherstocking Golf Course, where he took great pleasure in walking the course while joking with his friends. He loved folk music, and enjoyed the sing-alongs at Woodside Hall with Barbara by his side.

After 29 years, Charlie retired from Bassett in 1997 and opened an independent practice in clinical psychology. Charlie retired again in 2018 at the age of

80. An avid reader and writer, Charlie published numerous articles in professional journals. From 1997-2000, he also wrote a weekly column, “Lamb’s Tales,” for “The Freeman’s Journal.”

Charlie is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara, of Cooperstown; daughter Susan Lamb and husband Clif Buell of Apalachicola, Florida; son William Lamb and wife Laura Bliss Lamb of Cooperstown; a brother, David (Vickie) Lamb; nieces Tricia (Michael) McElfresh and Lisa (Scott) Stuart; great-nephew Casey McElfresh; and greatnieces Ivy McElfresh, Anya Stuart, and Brynn Stuart, all of Clyde, Ohio. He was predeceased by his parents.

Charlie often spoke of one’s ability to raise or lower the temperature in a room simply by entering it. To all

those who lowered the temperature—the expert caregivers at Bassett, the compassionate team at Woodside Hall, the helping hands from Helios Care, and loving family and friends who supported us over the last three months—we are forever grateful. According to his wishes, Charlie will be laid to rest in a graveside service at Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024, with the Rev. Betsy Jay officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at Woodside Hall at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Helios Care, the Woodside Hall Activities Fund or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Arrangements are with the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

Photo provided EARLE WILLIAM HAYFORD

confirmed in an e-mail on Monday, May 13 that New York State United Teachers “created the flier. They work with many districts throughout the state.” Reis also said the endorsement flier was sent by NYSUT to NYSUT district members only, not the general public, though this conflicts with other reports.

Scalici said such an endorsement has never happened before in his 30-year tenure on the board.

Some district residents also questioned a meet and greet held prior to the deadline for board applicant submissions. Reis explained that “the meet and greet was extended to all the candidates and CFA let it be known that they welcomed a conversation with any applicants who applied after the date.”

Finally, amid concerns that school board directors with family members employed by CCS may constitute a conflict of interest, “Legal Issues School Board Members May Encounter,” by the New York State School Boards Association, says this is not the case. “Board members may vote on collective bargaining agreements applicable to their relatives,” the document reads.

According to current CCS Board of Education President Peter Iorizzo, “Past practice, at least in recent history, has been for members to recuse themselves from matters directly impacting an immediate family member in order to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest.

“If there were a question as to whether the member could legally vote on a resolution, we would consult with our counsel. Board member ethics are addressed under Section 800, et seq., of the Public Officers Law, and our attorneys guide us in properly interpreting and applying the law. We also try to be proactive and discuss potential conflicts of interest in advance to ensure we’re taking the appropriate steps,” Iorizzo explained.

CCS District residents can vote from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 21 in the Junior/Senior High School auditorium at 39 Linden Avenue. Propositions on the 202425 budget and election ballot include: Proposition #1: To adopt the annual budget; Proposition #2: To elect three members of the Board of Education for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2024; Proposition #3: To authorize the leasepurchase by installment three 63-passenger buses and one 29-passenger school bus, and; Proposition #4: To approve annual appropriations for the Village Library of Cooperstown and Kinney Memorial Public Library.

Full details on the CCS 2024-2025 proposed budget can be found on the school website at https://5share.com/

public/home.html?c=8c7 524ae9e7e4d29aa42cb3 bea9ebb30.

“The Freeman’s Journal” reached out to the six school board candidates with a series of eight questions intended to inform voters and to share the candidates’ thoughts on their motivation to run for office, taxpayer burden concerns and budget priorities, as well as what they hope to accomplish if elected, among other topics. Their answers are as follows:

Question 1: Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the Board of Education? If elected, what would your top priorities be?

MacLeish: Recruiting quality candidates for open staff positions and supporting the success of current employees should be a priority for the board as a whole. I personally would prioritize improving communication between district residents and members of the board outside of the regimented format of formal meetings.

Monahan: My motivation, first and foremost, is my 7-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter that attend Cooperstown School. I place a high value on education. I have a keen interest in education beyond academics and want our schools to help our children build social skills and community involvement. I want our children to understand there are many paths one can take through life. At times, I feel we fail to understand just how much social and academic pressure our children are under. I want our children to have the education and skills to be successful while also preparing them to overcome failures and the hurdles that come about in life.

Murdock: I had the privilege of serving the Cooperstown community as an educator for 22 years. I am a parent to two students currently in the district, and a Cooperstown Central School graduate. I am currently employed as a labor relations specialist for New York State United Teachers. I strongly believe in public schools and am committed to the continued success of CCS. Maintaining high quality education programs and positive relationships with all stakeholders are priorities for me.

Parr: I have lived in the district for 26 years and am married to a CCS teacher who was born in the district and who also attended our school. My two children also went to, and graduated from, CCS. My son attended the BOCES program for welding, which was a fantastic fit for his hands-on learning style and has been a huge value in his life.

I am a veteran, having served in the United States Air Force and being deployed to the first Gulf War. I received a BS in forestry from SUNY ESF and worked for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as a forest ranger prior to my wife and I moving to

Cooperstown, [at which time I chose] to be a stay-at home-dad to raise our family. After our kids started attending school, I worked for myself in forestry, building-related activities and contracted to National Grid as a transmission forester.

I believe that everyone who has contributed, and who wants to contribute, to our school should be thanked. It takes everyone’s collective experiences and viewpoints to guide our school, especially in the extremely challenging environment we are currently in.

I believe that my life experiences, coupled with my unique position of having relationships within the school and district, will allow me to have a clear picture of our current and future needs.

[Editor’s Note: Mr. Parr provided this information but did not respond in the Q&A format.]

Scalici: My primary motivation at this time is to build a stronger communication between the board and teachers, along with principals and administration, regarding needs and goals for growing student opportunities and achievement. With all the changes over the past 12 years of teaching staff, administrators, principals, and state demands, our district feels fractured within itself and with the public. A more unified and cohesive in-school community is necessary to re-establish. Aside from this immediate issue, my longstanding motivation is to help with development of meaningful programs of education and training that are relevant to present day environmental and social developments. My top priorities are finding and retaining a highly qualified and energetic Middle/HighSchool principal, establishing communications as described above, and support of new initiatives while maintaining an open and fiscally responsible financial record.

Streck: Cooperstown Central School is a vital part of our broader community. My motivation for seeking a role on the Board of Education is essentially one of hoping to contribute in some way, with other board members, as we confront the challenges of public education in these times. Our four children graduated from CCS. We remain grateful to the teachers and friends who invested in their education as well as those who now educate the children of our community.

Question #2: Have you received any donations or endorsements from any group(s)? If so, which groups?

MacLeish: I have not received any donations or endorsements.

Monahan: No.

Murdock: I have been endorsed by the Cooperstown Faculty Association.

Scalici: I have not received or asked for donations or endorsements from any groups.

Streck: The Cooperstown [Faculty] Association has expressed support for my candidacy.

Question #3: How can a school board know if its goals are being accomplished and its policies are being implemented?

MacLeish: From a broader perspective, if parents believe that our schools are the best choice for their students—not just the default choice—then a school board’s goals have been accomplished. On a smaller scale, the only way to learn what a policy looks like on the ground is to listen carefully to the students, staff and parents impacted by it. A board should support open conversation that helps the school community to build on success, learn from failure, and ask careful questions to understand either outcome.

Monahan: As I see it, there are three factors to the success of a school—student fulfillment, employee engagement and community satisfaction. I say student fulfillment as opposed to academic success because not all our children will be academically motivated; more importance should be placed on children being well rounded and able to adapt to the problems life throws at them after school. Employee engagement is critical because we have a large faculty and staff, and all of them contribute to the success of our children. A happy staff will help to make happy students. Lastly, community satisfaction is important because we are community funded and want to ensure we are posing value to the taxpayers. A satisfied community will be more supportive and inclined to invest in our youth and grow our school.

Murdock: For every goal, there needs to be measurable objectives. It will be important to work with all stakeholders to determine these objectives and to implement them. The CCS administrators and staff have a wealth of experience and knowledge when it comes to supporting district goals. The larger community also needs to provide valuable input and feedback in this process.

Scalici: Through formal and informal means, which will include ongoing communication with the superintendent, reports from board committees, and input from liaison meetings between board and faculty representatives. Public or private messages of value from staff or parents, also, suggestions from staff and parents about improving or changing what has been proposed provides meaningful feedback.

Streck: The role of the Board of Education is to set priorities, manage the school budget, assure compliance with state educational requirements, and support the faculty and administration. The board as a group can assess success in these areas as well as others it may define, but fundamentally the board needs to ensure that teachers are able to educate students in a positive and effective

environment, allowing students to develop the knowledge required for personal growth and learning.

Question #4: What can be done to improve student achievement and ensure everyone who graduates is equipped to be a functioning member of society?

MacLeish: All graduates should have a grounding in basic academic disciplines, but the vital work of a school also includes cultivating curiosity, fostering initiative, and encouraging mature decision-making. I strongly believe that schools do this best by providing a variety of learning opportunities both inside the classroom and out. Not every student feels at home behind a desk. During my time as a college administrator, I saw first-hand that students who thrived when performing on a stage or building a barn with a construction crew discovered new motivation to succeed in class and gained the maturity to thrive in their community. When students develop their talents, our school can help them grow as people.

Monahan: I would first like to say there have been major improvements in this area recently. The number of advanced placement and College Now courses being offered has grown significantly, allowing college-bound students to enter college with more credits than ever before. In addition, the number of extracurricular offerings from the school has grown considerably. I would like to see both areas continue to grow as they give our students a leg up and allow them to explore areas that interest them.

An additional improvement I would like to see is for career exploration to begin earlier and done with more community involvement. The workforce is constantly evolving and it’s important our youth understand just how many career possibilities are out there. Our youth should have a good understanding of the trades and professional careers available to them so they can choose the most fulfilling path. Lastly, I feel a greater emphasis needs to be placed on science, technology, engineering, the arts and math, or STEAM curriculum. Technology is evolving quickly and plays a major role in both our careers and our personal lives.

Murdock: District leaders and educators are key to ensuring that high quality educational programs are in place and maintained. Through evaluating data and outcomes, they continually reflect on progress in these areas. As a board member, I would ensure that they have the tools and resources necessary to be highly successful in these areas. Ongoing review of data, conversations around it, and continued implementation of programs and resources that support positive outcomes for our students will be important.

Scalici: Embed life skills and real world, including learning, into the curriculum to help students see the connection between what they are learning in school and their lives. Offer a range of extra-curricular activities and encourage students to take advantage of using them. More broadly, achievements or initiatives above and beyond standardized tests, such as volunteerism in the community or beyond, and involvement with research and activities outside the classroom, show individual initiative. Ensure students develop meaningful post-high school plans, such as college, tech/trade school, family business, etc.

Streck: Employing good teachers and supporting them are the essential requirements for the desired outcome of educated and thoughtful graduates.

Question #5: What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budgets for your school district, and how will you balance quality with taxpayer burden? What are your budget priorities?

MacLeish: The district has proposed a reasonable and fair budget for the 24-25 school year. The proposed 1.54 percent increase in spending is markedly less than inflation, a notable feat for which school administrators and the board should be commended. Dedicated staff in every department and an efficient, wellmaintained physical plant require long-term commitments within the budget and are essential to a quality education for our students. At the same time, the budgeting process must carefully examine new and increased spending, and look for savings opportunities that arise with changes in enrollment, technology, and policy.

Monahan: The budget is a key focus area of mine because I feel sustainability and future planning are critical. Thirty-three percent of the school district’s revenue comes from state aid. In recent years, state aid has increased while enrollment has decreased. That trend is likely to not only stop but reverse as New York State experiences greater financial troubles. This will undoubtedly shift more tax burden to our residents. Couple that with the tax caps the school district is subject to and we will be facing budget problems in the coming years. For that reason, forecasting in budgeting is going to become more critical. I feel we need to be proactive in fiveyear budgeting and pay careful attention to the long-term costs of our investments.

Murdock: I support the current budget. I believe in being fiscally responsible, maintaining high quality educational programs, supporting all learners, and ensuring that CCS students and employees are in a safe environment every day. The likely reduction in state foundation

Climate

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particulates that cause cooling, so its impact is still being debated. In addition, the winter of 2023 occurred during an El Niño, when the ocean releases heat into the atmosphere and has been associated with marked increases in global temperatures in the past. However, the 2023 El Niño was a weak year, so its contribution to the observed warming was minimal.

Dr. Judith Curry describes three potential reasons (https://judithcurry.com/2023/08/14/ state-of-the-climatesummer-2023/). The slow decline in springtime snow extent has been linked to the warming trend as we come out of the Little Ice Age because less snow means less sunlight reflected to space. Clouds affect global temperatures. Within the atmosphere, more low clouds reduce temperatures by reflecting more sunlight but increased high clouds increase temperatures. Particles or aerosols also scatter light and can affect temperatures by blocking sunlight. Curry attributes the observed warming to the reduction in reflection from the atmosphere driven by reduced lowlevel cloudiness and, to a lesser extent, a reduction in atmospheric aerosol particles. Notably, she points out that increasing CO2 effects are “lost in the noise” which directly contradicts the Climate Act narrative.

The rationale for the multi-billion Climate Act net-zero transition is the alleged link between climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. Undoubtedly the emissions increases have some greenhouse effect on global temperatures, but the effects of natural climate variability not only must have been responsible for all the historical variations in global temperatures but also appear to be the primary driver even during the most recent

period when carbon dioxide emissions and global temperatures are well-correlated. The rationale for the Climate Act transition is weak at best. more information is available at https://pragmaticenvironmentalistofnewyork. blog/2024/04/12/naturalclimate-variability/ Born in Cooperstown and a graduate of Oneonta High School, Roger Caiazza holds a bachelor’s in meteorology from SUNY Oneonta and a master’s in meteorology from the University of Alberta, Edmonton. Before his retirement in 2018, he was a certified consulting meteorologist and worked in the air quality industry for more than 40 years. The goal of Caiazza’s blog, “Pragmatic Environmentalist of New York,” is to explain the importance of balancing risks and benefits of both sides of environmental issues.

Letters

Continued from page 4

north of the alluvial fan of the Brookwood Creek delta. That swampy area is not a good place to launch a kayak or a rowing shell. At full bloom, the weeds and lily pads are a challenge in a rowing shell. Rowing through lily pads involves cutting them up, a lose-lose proposition.

The present launch site has no lake vegetation, no lily pads, and a shallow rock bottom that facilitates beach launches, which are often preferable to dock launches for low freeboard boats such as kayaks and rowing shells.

The distance from the end of the proposed boat storage racks to the end of the proposed dock is approximately the length of a football field—a very long way for beginners to carry a kayak or shell. Kayaks and shells should be stored as close to their launch site as possible, since carrying a boat a long distance is a disincentive for beginners and casual paddlers. I coached high-school rowers for 20 years. A beginner will

do that once, then take up another sport.

The Otsego Land Trust may want to move the kayaks and shells to the swampy area north of the creek in order to make more space available around the Tea House Garden for event rentals. That may be good for the event rental business, but it’s not better for beginning rowers. Would not pretend otherwise.

Chip Northrup Cooperstown

Editorial

Continued from page 4

weather the mud and rain of upstate New York, and they soon deteriorated, giving way to the early macadam roads, which were constructed of layers of gravel.

In 1924 the state began to give numbers to certain highways, and in 1930 the West Lake Road became part of NY State Route 80, which stretches from Nelliston, on the mohawk River, southwest along the lake to Cooperstown, and then west to Tully and finally north to Syracuse. This is what we have today—a beautiful West Lake Road, with a few issues. Along with its sister

road to the east, there are increasing problems with slope stabilization, especially between Three and Five mile points on the west and near Pathfinder on the east, where the underlying soil conditions do not support the weight they are being asked to bear; the drainage is equally impossible, due to the steep slope of the terrain. Relentless truck and bus traffic has several times broken up the lake side of both of these roads, causing road and lane closings in each, often for many months, and questioning whether large vehicles should be using them.

Lecture

Continued from page 1

Kai mebust, chief of the Department of medicine at Bassett medical Center. “He is the ideal speaker for this humanities presentation honoring our own Dr. David Svahn. Dr. LaCombe’s commitment to his patients and his creative writings about people in the field of medicine reflect the values of compassionate care personified by Dr. Svahn.”

P/T Aide Caregiver

I am a 27-year-old male who has Cerebral palsy and uses a motorized wheelchair for mobility. I currently live in Cooperstown and will be relocating to Oneonta next month. I am seeking personal care assistance. There are a number of shifts available and full-time as well as part-time opportunities. A successful applicant will need to apply to at least one agency through which hourly wages will come. Pay rate is $18-$24/hr depending on experience and agency. I need full assistance with:

Transfers • Toileting • Dressing •Showering• Eating It is a plus if you:

Have experience providing care to someone with cerebral palsy and/or providing care to young adults Feel comfortable driving a client vehicle. Enjoy baking/cooking The care assistant should be person centered, focused, and appreciate some variety within the day.

If you’re interested in learning more, contact me at either method listed below.

Phone: 607-437-3577

Email djdewey97@gmail.com

Email resume and introductory letter to darlay@allotsego.com

UUVA Plant Sale Is Saturday

WEST WINFIELD—On Saturday, may 18, the Upper Unadilla Valley Association will host its annual plant sale, featuring locally-grown perennials at reasonable prices. The event runs from 10 a.m. to noon at the Town of Winfield Park, just off state Route 20 in the Village of West Winfield.

The sale will feature dozens of perennial varieties donated by local gardeners, with prices ranging from $3.00 to $5.00 per pot. Ambrosia Farms of West Edmeston will also sell its organically grown, openpollinated heirloom vegetables and herbs, with a portion of proceeds to benefit UUVA.

No plants will be sold before the 10 a.m. starting time, officials cautioned in a press release. Coffee and donuts also will be available for purchase.

A Duck Derby, in which the winner receives half of the proceeds raised from ticket sales, will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $3.00 per duck or two ducks for $5.00, and are available at the event or in advance from association directors. Call (315) 855-4368 for the name of the director nearest you.

The non-profit Upper Unadilla Valley Association, founded in 1969, works to preserve, protect, and highlight the Upper Unadilla Valley’s natural and historic resources.

Proceeds from the plant and garden fair, held on the third Saturday each may, help fund the following:

• A scholarship for a graduating mount markham Central School District senior;

• A summer tour or event showcasing the region’s positive attributes, such as farms, businesses, gardens, art, nature and historic homes; and

• A fall banquet featuring a presentation which ties in with the year’s summer event or an alternative subject related to the group’s mission.

As the need arises, proceeds also help with efforts for historical preservation or to protect against regional environmental threats. To learn more about the Upper Unadilla Valley Association, visit uuva.org.

LegaL

LegaL nOtice

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.

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 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

LEGALS

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

LegaL nOtice

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

6LegalMay.30

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

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 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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

notice of foRmation of a ny limited liability company.

Name: BLUE CHIP FARM PROPERTIES 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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice 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

LegaL nOtice 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

LegaL nOtice 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

LegaL nOtice 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

LegaL nOtice notice of foRmation of Big Lion Little Bear LLC

Articles of Organization continued

Oneonta

Continued from page 1

and Italian pastries.

Owner Allison King, a pastry chef from the Arts Institute in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, said they do it all as long as they have enough lead time. Cakes, customs, parties—just let her know what you want, and she’ll do what she can. The business is currently only set up for physical pick-up, and they are working on creating a website. King is also busy creating a customer rewards program. She says she really enjoys savory scones with a coffee, but customers especially like her brownies and stuffed cookies. Something patrons also really enjoy are Saturdays at the bakery, because that is when King serves Caribbean-style food. The Sugar Beat (formerly Kings Kakery) is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Board

Continued from page 8

coming years will require careful consideration.

The board will need to continue to work with the district, state, and local resources to determine the best path forward. This work needs to be done with transparency and with input from all stakeholders.

Scalici: The proposed budget is sound, with a very modest increase. The tax burden is initially determined by mandates and contracts, then by the educational needs. The amount of dollar increase of taxes must be made clear to the public, as they have specific purposes of improving teaching and learning, both in and out of the classroom. Priorities are based on better learning and updating of facilities.

Streck: I support the proposed 2024/2025 CCS budget.

Question #6: What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?

MacLeish: One major issue facing our district is the impact of state policy on district finances.

Large new expenditures will be required if the state’s electric bus mandate remains unchanged, for instance. Also, while the new state budget did not reduce our state aid, policy

(hours subject to change as the season warms up).

After sampling some of the local treats, head on over to The Artisan’s Guild to find a gift for that someone special. A staple in the community for almost 30 years, the shop is a not-for-profit cooperative that features the work of about 40 different local artists, including pottery, blownglass, textiles, wooden crafts and jewelry. Artists donate their time working in the shop for about four to six hours a month, running the register and interacting with customers. All sales in the store are split 85/15, with the artist getting 85 percent of the money and the store itself retaining the remaining 15. This percentage, along with monthly contributions from the artists, is how the shop pays for rent and utilities. New artists usually join through word-of-mouth. Currently, The Artisan’s Guild has four openings. Want to sell your wares? Stop by 148 Main Street

changes suggested by the governor could drastically reduce our aid in the future. Wise planning now will improve our options for responding to factors beyond our control in the future.

Monahan: The first major issue is staff retention. I feel the community is aware we have had several issues with keeping administrators in recent years, which has posed problems maintaining day-to-day operations and ensuring the needs of students and staff are being met. This is in part due to problems facing education in the U.S., where teachers and administrators are leaving education in high numbers. The other factor is that our school district has a compensation problem, and we are not competitive with similarly-sized schools, which causes a major recruitment and retention problem. The latter is something that the school board needs to address in the coming year. The second major issue is declining enrollment. This is a problem that is expected to continue for at least the next five years. Declining enrollment is a problem across the country and even more so in rural areas like ours. While we cannot directly impact enrollment, we need to be vigilant in our budgeting and program offerings to ensure that as enrollment goes down, we are still

for an information sheet. Right across the street from The Artisan’s Guild is an Oneonta classic: Island Premium Printing. Or, as they are better known, Stoneonta Clothing. Tyler Walsh, owner of the store, explained that they do custom screen printing, embroidery, and directto-garment clothing for businesses. Stoneonta is their in-house brand, which can be purchased by anyone. Walsh said he really enjoys doing collaborations with local businesses. In the past they have partnered with Maxwell’s, Wise Guys Sammy’s, and Wakeman Coffee. Located at 153 Main Street, they are open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Now sporting some cool, new clothing, one can cross the street to Serenity Hobbies for all sorts of games and entertainment. Nick Toborg, manager of the store, said they pride themselves on carrying everything game-related: board, role, and video,

able to offer students as many opportunities as possible to ensure their success after graduation.

Murdock: Declining enrollment, increased costs and maintaining high-quality staff, as a nationwide shortage of teachers and administrators is looming, are challenges the district will continue to face. These challenges are not specific to Cooperstown.

Scalici: Major issues facing the district are better communication between teachers and support staff with the board and superintendent and with the public. In addition, integration of principals and their support staff with department and grade chair leaders to continue with a coordinated progression of skills and learning. As per budget issues, the most important issue is the mandate, soon to be in effect by the state, requiring school districts to purchase electric school buses and the capital expenses for a larger garage and charging facilities. The financial burden of this on school property taxpayers is like nothing we have ever experienced.

Streck: Issues confronting the board include, as always, the budget for the district, complicated by variations in state funding. State mandates such as purchasing electric buses compete with efforts to secure capital

etc. He says the store understands that being local, they are competing with big box stores (like Walmart, which is a fiveminute drive away), and try to cater to niches such as retro gaming. Toborg remarked on how Magic the Gathering is his game of choice. He enjoys when customers come in looking to complete their decks or to work on a strategy, and he is able to take his 15 years of game knowledge and help others trade and build. Thanks to the extra space in the store, at 152-154 Main Street, they host different game nights on different days of the week. For more information and their calendar of events, check them out on Facebook or via their website.

No day on Main Street in Oneonta would be complete without a trip to local hotspot, The Green Toad. Owned and operated by Jim Havener, what started 16 years ago has turned into a community staple, and Havener prides himself

dollars for infrastructure. A compounding problem is a reduction in overall school enrollment. The current board is well aware of these complex variables, which will require the continued work of the board and the support of the community.

Question #7: are there any potential conflicts of interest if you were to be elected to the school board, or relationships you would like to disclose?

MacLeish: My wife is employed part time as the Kid Garden coordinator at the Elementary School.

Monahan: No.

Murdock: I put a lot of thought into running for this position and did my research to assure it wasn’t a conflict of interest (refer to New York State Comptroller Opinion 89-24). I’m passionate about this important work and would be honored to serve my community with the best interest of students at the forefront, at all times. The insight I bring from my years in this community, working on the front line with students, collaborating with district leaders, and in my current role, where I work with neighboring school districts, would be an asset.

Scalici: I have no conflicts of interest with any persons, groups or outside interests.

LEGALS

on bringing new stories to people. While the store does have many of the standard best sellers, they also try to carry books with different viewpoints, to bring in a variety of what the publishing world has to offer. “Books, gifts, and home” is their motto, as the store sells not only books, but things to go along with your books as well, so there’s something for everyone. Havener said, “One of the joys of being a bookseller is every day is like Christmas.” He prepares for major holidays and rushes at least one to two seasons in advance,

so he will get a surprise in each box of books he ordered months ago. The Green Toad is conveniently located next to Latté Lounge and the stores share an open wall space, which workers and customers enjoy, because, according to Havener, “You get to smell great coffee in here and great books in there.” The Green Toad, 198 Main Street, is open daily and encourages people to “stop by and explore the world of books with us.” Heading to Oneonta soon? Make sure to take a stroll down Main Street for your next shopping adventure.

OPt to test new Bus Route

ONEONTA—Due to increased demand, Oneonta Public Transit will test a new Southside and West End night bus route beginning on Tuesday, May 21. The run will start at the top of each hour from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The initial trial period will last for 30 days, with ridership determining if the route will continue. View the new route at https://www.facebook. com/cityofoneonta/posts/pfbid02wHSpFwX8iqrCpttGu289JgS6J7kHGuDSNwnXVDWrUwh9svThE5NUCpjN9wha11Jil.

See aLLOtSegO.cOM FOR aDDitiOnaL neWS

Streck: In considering this role, I have reviewed state education law, have no conflicts of interest, sought no campaign funding and am aware of the mandatory state programs for new school board members, as well as the additional services of the New York State School Board Association.

Question #8: if elected, what would you hope would be key accomplishments of the board during your years of service?

MacLeish: In the years to come, I hope that the board will be able to retain a steady core of talented administrators, preserve the rich educational opportunities offered by our experienced teachers, and maintain a solid financial footing without drastic swings in spending or taxation. Each one of these accomplishments would require a great deal of the dedication, humility and optimism that I have to offer as a candidate.

Monahan: The key accomplishments I would like to see are improvements in staff retention and recruitment, establishing long term, conservative fiscal planning in preparation for decreased aid and enrollment, and lastly, further development in career exploration to help our students to choose fulfilling jobs when

entering the workforce.

Murdock: When the constituents work together as a team to support students, CCS flourishes and the students benefit. Building and maintaining positive relationships with a culture of trust is key to having success. My hope is to continue to build relationships, which will assist in attracting and retaining high-quality candidates for positions in this district. We have many strengths as a district that we can continue to highlight and build upon. When faced with challenges, relationships built around trust will help to find the best path forward. I am committed to making a positive difference as a Board of Education member at Cooperstown Central School.

Scalici: Key accomplishments would be noteworthy improvements in relationships with teacher and support personnel, new academic initiatives, and increased opportunities, participation in student involvement with electives, and public support to stop non-education mandates.

Streck: If elected, I would seek to become a knowledgeable member of the school board and work to be viewed as contributing in a positive way by faculty, administration, fellow board members, parents, and members of the community.

from Pg. 10 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

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Notice of formatioN of BUGEL ASSETS LLC.

Art of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/26/2024. Office: OTSEGO County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC. LEO BUGEL 28 MAPLE ST, ONEONTA, NY, 13820 Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJun.20 LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of

100 Main Street Cooperstown LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on March 29, 2024. Office Location is in Otsego County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

The Secretary of State shall mail process to P.O. Box 431, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalJun.20

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Notice of formatioN of Kelly Hromada-John-

son Counseling Services LCSW, PLLC

Arts of Org. filed 05/07/2024. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to 115 County Road 2, Mt. Upton NY 13809. Purpose: LCSW 6LegalJun.20

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Notice of PUBLic HeariNG

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held in the Otsego County Personnel Department, 183 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York on Monday, May 22, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. to revise the appendices of the Otsego County Civil Service Rules, as deemed necessary and desirable for the effective administration of Civil Service in the County of Otsego. A copy of the proposed changes are on file in the Otsego County Personnel Office and available for inspection during business hours (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.).

Penney S. Gentile Personnel Officer County of Otsego State of New York

Dated: May 10, 2024 1LegalMay.16

►Friday, May 17

YARD SALE Dead-

line to sign up for the Cooperstown Village Yard Sale Day (6/1) and to be included on the village map. $20 fee includes place on the map, a yard sign and automatic registration with the village clerk. Visit facebook.com/ CooperstownYardSales/ CONNECTIONS 8 a.m.

“Brookwood Gardens: Bird Watching with Becky Gretton.” Off-campus event. Bring binoculars and dress appropriately. Presented by Connections at Clark Sports Center at Brookwood Point, 6000 State Highway 80, Cooperstown.

FUNDRAISER 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Rummage Sale.” Clothes, house wares, books, toys and more to support the Christian Fellowship and Service Guild. Includes a bag sale from 3-5. Church of Christ Uniting, 22 Church Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-1553.

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 ziti and meatballs, green beans, garlic knots and poke cake with topping. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. (607) 547-6454.

OPENING RECEP-

TION 5-7 p.m. “33rd Annual Regional Juried Art Exhibit: Essential Art.” On view thru 6/26. “The Leatherstocking Brush &

Palette Club: A Group Exhibit” on view thru 6/19. “Passage: A Solo Exhibit by Kristen Griger” on view thru 6/26. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-9777.

DRIVE-IN MOVIE

Dusk, doors open at 7 p.m. Double feature of “IF” (PG) followed by “Kung Fu Panda 4” (PG). Fees apply. Rain or shine. Unadilla Drive-In, 1706 State Highway 7, Unadilla. (607) 369-2000 or visit https://www.facebook. com/unadilladrivein

CONSERVATION 7-9

p.m. “Bringing the Endangered American Burying Beetle Back to New York.” Presented by Dr. Carmen Greenwood, professor/ insect ecologist at SUNY Cobleskill. Free, open to the public. Refreshments available. Also available via Zoom; registration required. Presented by the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society at the Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. Visit doas.us/calendar/ PERFORMANCE

7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. “Magic Beyond Imagination,” featuring two world-class magicians. General admission, $39.50 on Eventbrite. Also showing 5/18. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

►Saturday, May 18

BIRDING All day. “Big Day Bird Count 2024.” Birders locate as many bird species as they can

in a single day and report to Coordinator Charlie Scheim. Data to be used in conservation efforts. (607) 434-4880.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST 7:30-11:30 a.m. Fly-in Pancake Breakfast. All-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, real maple syrup, sausage and beverages. $9/adult to support the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Department. Cooperstown/Westville Airport, 866 State Route 166, Cooperstown.

CLEAN SWEEP 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. “16th Annual Hartwick Clean Sweep.” Hartwick residents are invited to dispose of everything from old furniture, to household appliances containing Freon. Not accepting electronics, hazardous waste or green waste. Hartwick Town Hall, 103 Town Drive, Hartwick. (607) 2938123.

SPRING 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Spring Cleanup Day.” Clean the grounds and perform annual maintenance. Includes coffee and donuts, followed by lunch at noon. Oneonta Sportsmen’s Club, 251 Rod and Gun Club Road, Oneonta. (607) 4330515.

VOLUNTEER 9 a.m.

Clean up LaCava Nature Center for use by gym classes, Red Bursey summer programs and the community. Hand tools available, bring your own if possible. Meet

at the pergola in front of the high school. All welcome. LaCava Nature Center, Cooperstown Central School, 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown. lacava.naturecenter@ gmail.com.

TOURNAMENT

9 a.m. “Asst. Chief Adam C. Burgess Memorial Golf Tournament.” Support the Mount Vision Fire Department. Fee includes greens, cart, more. Held at Colonial Ridge Golf, 195 Bateman Road, Laurens. (607) 263-5291.

RACE 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Glimmerglass Triathlon.” Begins with the 1.5 open water paddle, followed by a 16.5 mile bike ride, then a 10K run. Team options available. Registration required. Presented by the Clark Sports Center. Begins/concludes at Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown. (607) 5472800.

SPLASH PATH 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. “11th Annual Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk.” Vendors, music, food. Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377.

SPRING 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Spring Carnival” with Head Start and Early Head Start. Game and activity stations, face painting, Utica ZooMobile and more. 6th Ward Booster Club Field, 6 Scramling Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 433-8000.

GARAGE SALE

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Vintage Treasure Sale.” Organized by Rotary Club of Cooperstown. Fabulous finds at fabulous prices. Christ Church Parish Center, 46 River Street, Cooperstown. Visit facebook.com/cooperstownrotaryclub

BOOK FAIR 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Explore eclectic selection of books, from gift shop staples to vintage tomes. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.

PLANETARIUM Learn about the cosmos in three presentations. Registration required, fees apply. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, West Dormitory 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 how astronomers search for planets beyond our solar system.

FUNDRAISER Noon to 4 p.m. “Plant, Pottery & Jewelry Sale!” Donations gratefully accepted. Continues 5/19. Super Heroes Humane Society, 160 Pony Farm Road, Oneonta. (607) 441-3227.

SPRING Noon to 3 p.m. “Spring Fling Field Day & Chicken BBQ!” Includes Chinese raffle, skeet/trap shoot, spring raffle, more. All welcome. Burlington Flats Fish and Game Club, 615 Louis Dickinson Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8096.

LIBRARY 1:30 p.m.

“Writer’s Revision Workshop.” With award winning sci-fi/fantasy author Premee Mohamed. Presented online via Zoom by the Huntington Memorial Library, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

TRAVEL 2 p.m. “Egypt, Then and Now.”

Local poet/author/editor

Brenda-Louise Carpenter shares highlights of her journey to Egypt. Free. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Highway 11, Hartwick. kodonnell@stny. rr.com

GRANGE 4:30-7 p.m.

Chili Supper. Fees apply. Pierstown Grange, 137 Wedderspoon Hollow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 437-4656 or (607) 2372930.

CONCERT 7:30 p.m. “Pairings: Songwriters and the Songs They Love.” Keith Torgan and friends Stuart Kabak and Mary Cordelia Myers. Admission fee. Dunderberg Gallery, 118 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2010.

►Sunday, May 19

FUNDRAISER 9 a.m. to noon. “Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser.” Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, coffee and juice. Fees apply. Proceeds benefit 2025 student trip. Richfield Springs Central School Cafeteria, 93 West Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0610.

MEDITATION 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Sundays at Samye: Study & Practice Group.” Free. Held each Sunday. Samye Hermitage New York, 412 Glimmerglen Road, Cooperstown. contact@samyeny.org.

WRITING 1-3 p.m. “Cooperstown Writers Group.” Held each Sunday. Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.

OPEN HOUSE 2-4 p.m. “14th Annual Sacred Sites Open House” with the New York Landmarks Conservancy. Learn history of the sanctuary of this historic memorial. Free and open to the public. Chapin Memorial, Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-3491.