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COOPERSTOWN AND AROUND
CLARK GYM SET TO OPEN BY WEEKEND
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CCS Delays School Year Until Oct. 5 COOPERSTOWN
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n three parent meetings on Cooperstown Central’s reopening plans, Supt. of Schools Bill Crankshaw broke the news: In-person classes, expected to begin Wednesday, Sept. 9, will be delayed a month until Monday, Oct. 5. Organizing to reopen while the COVID-19 threat continues, was complicated in many areas, from busing to instruction. Remote instruction will continue for the first month.
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OTSEGO LAKE FISHERY THREATENED
Feared Quagga Mussel Invades By JIM KEVLIN SUNKEN ISLAND
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t 2:41 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, just north of here, one of Sarah Coney’s worst fears was realized. There in a sieve that was straining a bucket of mud from Otsego Lake’s bottom was a tiny mussel the SUNY Oneonta biology master’s candidate immediately recognized.
It was a quagga mussel, even more feared than the zebra mussel that arrived in 2008, clogging water pipes and filtering algae from Glimmerglass’ waters that cold water Otsego bass and other valued species depend on for survival. The quagga is lighter than the zebra; also, the zebra can be placed upright on a tableJim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal top, the quagga rolls over. SUNY Oneonta master’s student Sarah Coney “I really didn’t want to see compares a quagga mussel, right, which she it,” said Coney, a native of discovered in Otsego Lake Saturday, Aug. 24, Please See QUAGGA, A7 with the zebra mussel.
COVID AT SUNY HARTWICK CHECKS STUDENTS ON ARRIVAL Karyn Ramierez, gets information and temperature readings from incoming Hartwick College students, like Jeff Zinc, a sophomore majoring in business.
OPD Busts Party, Cites It For Noise By LIBBY CUDMORE ONEONTA
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For 212 Years
Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, August 27, 2020
losed since shortly after Governor Cuomo’s emergency COVID-19 declaration in March, the Clark Sports Center is due to reopen this Thursday, Aug. 27, Director Val Paige told the Cooperstown Rotary Club. Members will have their memberships extended to make up for the months the full-service gym, which has three pools, has been closed, Paige said. For DETAILS, VISIT Jess Lanza, here with wife Kate, co-proprietor of Kate’s Upstate, and Reagan, is the first merchant elected Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce president since Riverwood’s Rick Gibbons, whose term ended in 2007. See profile on
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COVID PROMPTS MICROBREWERY PACKAGE INNOVATION/B1
alking downtown at 1 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, Mayor Gary Mayor Herzig and Herzig saw exactly President Morris what he’d hoped he have been unable wouldn’t see. to get together to discuss contrary “There were significant numbers approaches to COVID-19. of young people congregating and not wearing masks,” he said. “I had high expectations, and am very disappointed.” Then, on Tuesday, Aug. 25, two off-campus students had tested positive for COVIDPlease See STUDENTS, A8
Callahan’s Cooperstown New Judge’s Local Roots Deep Conviction Will Also Host Overturned Photo Display as the newest Otsego By JIM KEVLIN MANY GETMANS IN LAW, MEDICINE
►PIT RUN GOES VIRTUAL, adds 100K challenge, group runs. ►bliss to gyms: Get inspected so you can reopen. ►first suspect pleads guilty in Worcester slaying, gets 22 to life. ONEONTA ►CONGRESSMAN DELGADO, D-19, asks citizens for input etmans and on postal delays Otsego County ►CATSKILL SYMPHONY plans live go back a long internet concert Sept. 12. way, in law and medi►shortening census deadline cine, too. adds urgency: fill yours out. -
County judge. Norman Getman, a cousin of Damon Getman, the incoming judge’s grandfather, was county coroner during the notorious Eva Coo case. She was found guilty of hitting Harry “Gimpy” “In the Laurens cemWright with a mallet, etery, there are a lot of then running him over, Ian Austin/The Freeman’s Journal Getmans,” said Michael and was executed in 1935 Incoming Judge Michael F. GetF. Getman, who will be man still practices in the office at Sing Sing. sworn in Jan. 1, 2021, his father opened in 1961. Please See JUDGE, A7
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By LIBBY CUDMORE COOPERSTOWN
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istrict Attorney John Muehl doesn’t see how overturning Casey Callahan’s guilty verdict is in the interest of justice. “This ruling was made ‘in the interest of justice,’” he said. Please See MURDER, A7
By LIBBY CUDMORE COOPERSTOWN
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ennifer Dibble is adding a few more names to the national “Say Their Names” database after its installation on a Doubleday Field fence was approved by the Village Board Monday, Aug. 24. Please See PHOTOS, A8
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA, OTSEGO COUNTY’S LARGEST PRINT CIRCULATION 2010 WINNERS OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD
A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL
THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
LOCALS Arnot Named Assist. Elections Commissioner
Sandwich Boards Alert Visitors To Mask Mandate
Art On Lake Viewers Vote ‘Hard Working Man’ As #1
COOPERSTOWN
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ylan Arnot, Hartwick, was named the Democratic Otsego County assistant elections commissioner this week, succeeding MacGuire Benton. He’s a former Arnot member of the Otsego County Young Democrats, and an organizer for U.S. Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-19, during the Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal freshman Congressman’s 2018 campaign. He is also Visiting relatives on Thursday, Aug. 20 from Skaneateles, be-masked a member of the county James Hurley and daughter, Margaret, 3, pause to review one of the new Democratic committee. sandwich boards, set up yesterday, that alert the public to the Village of Cooperstown’s new law requiring that masks be worn downtown on Main Benton, a village trustee, and Pioneer sidewalks. left the Board of Elections to take a sales position with Cooperstown Distillery.
Cooperstown Picks C.O.O.P As Film Commission By LIBBY CUDMORE
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n the last nine years, New York State has seen $29.5 billion spent on making movies in the state. And now, with the official designation of the Cooperstown, Oneonta, Otsego County Film Partnership as Cooperstown’s official film commission by the Village Trustees, board president Greg Klein hopes that Otsego County could see a piece of that. “This is the first step to bringing the film industry into this area,” he said during tonight’s Board of Trustees meeting. “It’s a big ship.” Klein has recruited a board of directors, including
former Mayor Jeff Katz, Nancy Tarr, and Natalie Wrubleski and Korey Rowe, both who are currently working on the film “Asteroids,” shooting in Oneonta. C.O.O.P, Klein said, will attend film festivals as “an agent for the region” to entice filmmakers to come to the area. “There’s not a lot filming in New York City or LA,” he said. “But filmmakers want to come upstate.” The resolution will show the state and industry trade organization, Association of Film Commissioners International, that C.O.O.P is sponsored by municipalities.
He also said he has plans to get approval from the Otsego County Board when they meet on Wednesday, Sept. 2 and the Oneonta Planning Committee on Tuesday, Aug. 25, with an expected follow-up at Common Council for final approval.
“A Hard Working Man” by Daniel Tennant
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photo, “A Hard Working Man,” by Daniel K. Tennant of New Woodstock, won first place in the Viewers Choice Awards at The Fenimore Art Museum’s 13th annual Art by the Lake last weekend. The virtual event offered “Winter Light” by online visitors the opportuTatiana Rhinevault SCHUERMANN TOPS: nity to vote on their favorite artwork, which determines the winners of the 2020 Viewer’s Margaret Schuermann, Choice Awards. Almost 400 votes were cast. Cooperstown, was named Tatiana Rhinevault of Hyde Park took second prize with to the 2020 Dean’s List at her painting, “Winter Light.” Union College. Both artists received a cash prize. Art fans may visit these artists’ websites and purchase SORIN TALKS: their work. Visit FenimoreArt.org/abtl2020 to find more Dr. Gretchen Sullivan Sorin,Cooperstown Graduate information on each. Program, presented “Driving ·· While Black: Race, Space, and the Automobile,” on Wednesday, Aug. 12, at BEAUTIFUL and the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum in New York City. AFFORDABLE!
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THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3
Yes!
Why
t n ou C U O Y o g e s t O y t n u o C
To c e n s u s 2020 Yes to our kids. Yes to school grants. Yes to their future
Everyone should fill out Census 2020 so we don’t lose millions of dollars in the next 10 years!
By filling out the census, you will help: LOCAL EDUCATION LOCAL HEALTH CARE LOCAL ROADS and so much more
Every 10 years, the census counts how many people are in our community, to decide how much federal funding and representation our communities should receive. This money supports everything from school lunches to special education to Head Start to over 130 other programs that could help our students right now. Your responses to the census are important, and they cannot be shared with anyone. In fact, they’re even protected by law from other branches of government.
Go to 2020census.gov or call 800-330-2020
Let’s say no to undercounting in our communities, and #YEStotheCensus! Remember‌EVERYONE COUNTS in your household (children/elderly‌everyone!) It is a federal crime to use any information obtained in a census form for anything other than an accurate census count. You will not be asked about your citizenship status on the 2020 Census.
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THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL EDITORIAL
IF YOU PLAN TO VOTE THAT WAY, GET STARTED NOW
Absentee Ballots Better Than ‘Universal Mailing,’ But ‘Fraught’
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n announcing this fall’s voting regimen a few days ago, Governor Cuomo labelled it “sweeping change.” Happily, that’s not the case. “Universal mailing” through the U.S. Postal Service would have been “sweeping change.” And coming within a few weeks of Election Day, Nov. 3 – the five states that did phase it in over several years – it would have been dicey at best, horrendous at worst. Instead, New York State’s “sweeping reform” is a sensible loosening of absentee-voting requirements in time of COVID-19. Here’s how our county election commissioners, Republican Lori Lehenbauer and Democrat Mike Henrici, explained the changes: ►The qualifying term, “temporary illness,” has been expanded. If you are concerned about
►VOTERS, HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
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f you plan to vote in the Nov. 3 Presidential election, Trump vs. Biden, here’s what you should know: • If you plan to vote absentee, ask for an absenteeballot application now by letter (The Meadows, 140 County Highway 33W, Suite 2, Cooperstown NY 13326); email (voteotsego.com), or phone (607-547-4247). • The last day to register to vote, absentee or otherwise, is Oct. 9. • The last day to postmark an absentee-ballot application is Oct. 27. • The last day to apply in person for an absentee ballot is Nov. 2, the day before Election Day, at the Board of Elections at The Meadows. • Early voting will begin Saturday, Oct. 24, and continue until Sunday, Nov. 1. (Google “otsego board elections” for times.) • On Election Day, Nov. 3, polls will be open 6 a.m.-9 p.m. across the county.
contracting COVID-19 while voting, you can apply for an absentee ballot. ►As of now, voters without an
absentee-ballot application may request an absentee ballot by letter; email or phone. ►Absentee ballots may be
LETTERS
Mr. Mayor, Forget Fines; Try Community Service
To the Editor: As a recent transplant to the Oneonta area, I don’t know much about Mayor Herzig, but I appreciate the seriousness with which he, and the rest of the citizens of Otsego County, have handled the health and safety of their community by rigorously following state health guidelines. It’s a breath of fresh air, even underneath my mask, to live in a place without opportunity for argument or debate regarding the necessity of masks or other measures in keeping its citizens safe and healthy. Former Vice President
Hubert Humphrey, who believe it or not, is not often quoted, said, “The moral test of a government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy, and the handicapped.” By this measure, Mayor Herzig and the government of Oneonta have seemingly done right by their constituents in regards to the containment and prevention of COVID-19. However, I take some Please See NEILSEN, A6
postmarked up to Election Day, Nov. 3. (Previously, they had to arrive at the Board of Elections BY Election Day.) Best of all, all of this expires at the end of the year, returning to normal – not the new normal; the old one. • Still, the challenge of processing a huge number of additional absentee ballots by hand is – to use a word everybody seems to be using lately – “fraught.” It creates the opportunity for local boards of election to be overwhelmed and, thus, to make mistakes. This isn’t theoretical. A case in point occurred as nearby as Herkimer County, directly north of Otsego County, in the June 23 Republican primary for family court judge. WKTV
GUEST COLUMN
Perils of Puffball Hunting
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he other morning I looked out the window and saw that a puffball was emerging from the ground at the edge of a hedgerow bordering our back lawn. It reminded me of an incident that occurred several years ago. I had taken my son and his friend, Junior, puffball hunting on a farm just outside of Warren off of Route 20. What’s different about a puffball from others in the mushroom family is that they can grow TERRY out of the ground BERKSON overnight. And, if you don’t find and pick them in time when they are still pure white and firm, they dry out and shrink to a paper-like sphere To the Editor: that emits a dusty cloud of spores Our village’s abundant display of mask-signage reguwhen squeezed. lations, with the specific bold harsh wordage “citations Hence the name: puffball. issued/fines imposed”, goes way beyond an “educational” It was early in the season and I approach and reflects a threatening “gotcha” mentality. wasn’t sure we’d find anything, but I’m not the only resident who feels sandwich boards, with the cooler weather already upon staked “notice” signs in our flower/tree planters, and stickers us I was looking forward to a quiet on parking meters and garbage units are unwelcoming, walk in the woods. Maybe we’d even unfriendly, intimidating and misleading. spot some deer. How would residents and visitors know there is a proviThe boys were about 8 or 9 and Erin Hugick photo This photo of Bob Hugick of sion in the village law that specifically permits the removal were excited to be on an expedition, Schuyler Lake attests to the of masks while eating and drinking on Main and Pioneer but they crashed through the woods fact: Yes, puffballs exist. streets while sitting on benches or standing stationary? talking and laughing and slapping How very unkind, sad and financially devastating for our tree trunks with sticks. loved to eat them pan-fried in butter, food, beverage and snack merchants who are already strugIt wasn’t the calm nature walk that I and being a devoted wife, she jammed gling to just survive. had hoped for and for sure we weren’t on the brakes, flipped open her son’s DIANE GAMBLE going to see any deer, so to get some door and commanded, “Junior, get that Cooperstown peace, I lied and told them that if they puffball!” made too much noise the puffballs The kid sat up and zeroed in on the UNDE FO D would suck themselves back into R target like a Labrador retriever. the ground. As it happened, the puffball was That seemed to quiet them, but Cooperstown’s Newspaper For 212 Years sitting on the land of a neighbor with after an hour of searching we didn’t whom they were having a propertyfind anything. line dispute. James C. Kevlin About a week later, while driving For a second, mother grabbed Junior Editor & Publisher to town, Junior’s mother spotted a by the back of his shirt, but devotion puffball in her neighbor’s pasture. to her husband won out and she chose Tara Barnwell Knowing how much her husband to risk the humiliation of being caught Advertising Director & General Manager
Does ‘Gotcha’ Mentality Work?
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Libby Cudmore Larissa Ryan Business Manager
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IN MEMORIAM: Mary Joan Kevlin, Co-Publisher, 2006-17 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR Otsego County • Village of Milford • Town of Middlefield Cooperstown Central School District MEMBER: National Newspaper Association, NY Press Association Subscriptions 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. E-mail: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc.
by the “enemy.” Released from his mother’s grip, Junior left the car, slipped through the barbed wire fence like a cat and began to trot out into the forbidden pasture, the puffball glowing like a beacon. “Hurry up!” his mother shouted from the car, causing Junior to quicken his pace. But when he was within 30 yards of the quarry and almost out of earshot of his mom, Junior suddenly dropped to the ground and proceeded on all fours. His mother was baffled, but she would now have to scream for her son to hear her and she was worried about arousing the enemy. Junior proceeded at what to her seemed like a snail’s pace. When he neared the snow-white target, he gathered himself and pounced on it tearing it from its anchorage. Then he rose triumphantly and began running back towards the car, his mother holding her head in her hands. When he reached the fence he thrust his prize under the wire to his flustered mother who was waiting with hands open – and a question: “Junior, why were you crawling?” The boy thought for a moment. “Terry said that you have to sneak up on a puffball or else it’ll suck itself back into the ground.” “Wait till I talk to Terry!” his mother said. That evening I received her phone call and an emotional reprimand about how I almost caused her to have a heart attack. Not to bring further injury to her heart – her name and Junior’s were left out of this story. I did hint that a serving of the delicacy fried with breadcrumbs would serve to keep me quiet indefinitely. Terry Berkson, who has an MFA in creative writing from Brooklyn College, lives on a farm outside Richfield Springs. His articles have appeared in New York magazine, the New York Daily News Sunday Magazine, Automobile and other publications.
IN APPRECIATION
Managing Editor
has done some pretty good reporting on this. The counting took more than two weeks, and the race between two candidates, Mark Rose of Little Falls and Thad Luke of Frankfort, was declared a tie, at 2,291 each. Suddenly, 31 uncounted ballots were found, 26 from the Town of Norway; five from the Town of Salisbury. According to WKTV, the envelopes had been opened with a letter opener, but the ballots were never pulled out. On Friday, July 10, the Herkimer County Board of Elections advised the candidates of the snafu. Luke declared victory, but Rose, at last report, was considering a court challenge. For now, no wrongdoing is suspected. There were simply a lot Please See EDITORIAL, A5
Velma Shared Pierstown’s Secrets With All By PAUL LORD
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e have lost someone special. I recognize that the world doesn’t stop with anyone’s leaving. I can imagine a world without Velma. What I can’t imagine is a Pierstown without Velma. Velma was a personal hero for me. She wasn’t perfect. (None of my heroes are perfect.) Velma was the embodiment of a place, Pierstown. Velma Armstrong may have been the last Armstrong to live on Arm-
strong Road, but Velma was the patron saint – and cheerleader – for Pierstown. She wanted to do what could be done to protect the vistas, sense of community, and Velma quality of life we Armstrong enjoy in Pierstown. I wonder how many of our Pierstown Grange members are members, in part or whole, because of a chat with
►FOR OBITUARY of Velma Armstrong, SEE B5. Velma. I know that is how I came to the Grange. Velma was the embodiment of place, but not in an insular way. She welcomed my family and me, shared with us “secret” fruit-picking spots, vegetables, flowers, meals, recipes, pies, and jellies. She did this repeatedly when folks moved into Pierstown or surroundPlease See VELMA, A6
AllOTSEGO.com • SEE PAGES A5 and A6
LETTERS TO EDITOR WELCOME • EMAIL THEM TO info@
THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5
BOUND VOLUMES Compiled by Tom Heitz/SHARON STUART, with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library
200 YEARS AGO
Land for Sale Low. The Subscriber offers the following property low for cash or approved credit – One Farm of 44 and three-quarter acres of excellent land lying in Richfield, Otsego County, on the Hamilton and Skaneateles Turnpike road leading from Richfield to Skaneateles, on which is a good, framed house and barn, a fine young orchard which bears fruit sufficient for a family’s use. The fences are in good repair and about thirty acres of which are under good improvement, and lies near the center of the Town. August 28, 1820
125 YEARS AGO
The final speaker, New York State Governor Thomas E. Dewey, was an hour late in arriving, during which interval the crowd sang popular songs for which Edward R. Curtis played piano accompaniments. August 29, 1945
50 YEARS AGO
Leo F. Conroy, special agent in charge of the Albany office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation was the program speaker at the regular meeting of the Cooperstown Rotary Club at the Cooper Inn on Tuesday. Mr. Conroy, a veteran of 28 years in the FBI, outlined the role of the investigative unit of the U.S. Department of Justice in the national fight against crime. The FBI does not get involved in local criminal matters unless there is a concurrent violation of a federal statute in which case the FBI will work with state and local police officials in an investigation. Mr. Conroy stated that whole-hearted cooperation among law enforcement agencies at all levels forms the backbone of any effective crime control program. The FBI operates throughout the nation with 7,300 special agents assigned to 59 field offices. The FBI currently has a workforce of 17,000 people. August 26, 1970
175 YEARS AGO
Albany-Troy Pocket Picking – A man of genteel appearance was discovered purloining a purse from a passenger who was going on board the Troy, at the steamboat landing this morning. The thief was promptly arrested, and will doubtless be convicted. It is believed there were others aboard the Troy of the same “kidney,” as a party of suspicious-looking chaps, of whom the person arrested was recognized as one arrived from Saratoga Springs this morning. From the Hudson, New York Gazette: Dr. Boughton – We understand that this gentleman, well known by the appellation of “Big Thunder,” is addressing Anti-Rent meetings in this county, and urging upon the tenants not to pay any more rent, and that resolutions have been passed at several meetings in the south part of this county to pay no process in any way connected with rents. August 25, 1845
150 YEARS AGO
The late Chester Jarvis, Esq., recently deceased at Kinderhook on August 10, was one of our earliest acquaintances in this county. He was a kind-hearted and interesting gentleman of great intelligence, with all the urbanity and politeness of the old school. His narrations of matters pertaining to the early history of this place were always interesting and often quite amusing. Mr. Jarvis was born at Williamstown, Massachusetts in December, 1792, and brought by his father Asahel Jarvis to Fly Creek when one year old. For 26 years he was Justice of the Peace of this town, an active and firm Democrat and subscriber to The Freeman’s Journal. August 25, 1870
100 YEARS AGO
An attempted robbery at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital was foiled shortly after 11 p.m. Tuesday evening by night watchman John Hibbard who shot three times at two intruders with his revolver. Hibbard heard footsteps about the building and upon investigating was confronted
August 29, 1895 by two burly ruffians with caps pulled down over their faces and coat collars turned up. One of the intruders raised a revolver and pulled the trigger, but the weapon fortunately failed to discharge. Hibbard grabbed his revolver and fired three shots at the men who then retreated and made their escape from the building through a side door. Residents along the street heard the shots. Policeman Matthias Harvey, Walter Wilson and Deputy Sheriff Wm. H. Michaels, Jr. went through the building but could find no trace of the burglars. It is surmised that the two men made their escape over the pump house hill. August 25, 1920
75 YEARS AGO
It was estimated that 2000 people from all parts of New York State visited Fenimore House on Friday of last week when it was formally opened as the Central Quarters of the New York State Historical Association. A drizzling rain prevented the use of the spacious and beautiful grounds for the program of addresses and reception of distinguished guests. However, members and other visitors found pleasure and adequate space in the great halls and rooms of the mansion. The formal program was held in the Hall of the Life Masks where seating for several hundred guests was provided.
GUEST COLUMN
County Board Should Reject Second Amendment Sanctuary
25 YEARS AGO
All students in grades kindergarten through 12 will be returning to school on Wednesday, September 6, to begin a full day of classes at Cooperstown Central School District. Full paid lunch prices for 1995-96 will be $1.35 for grades K-5 and $1.40 for grades 6-12. Students are requested to arrive between 8 and 8:15 a.m. All students are to be in their homerooms by 8:30 a.m. Homeroom assignments will be posted on the bulletin board in the main cafeteria foyer. Throughout the day, students will be culled from classes to attend the following activities – eye tests and physicals; hearing tests and required scoliosis screening will be administered throughout the school year. All students are required to be in attendance from 8:20 a.m. to 2:53 p.m. August 27, 1995
10 YEARS AGO
Retired postal clerk and Army veteran Mike Ehredt is running from the shores of the Pacific to the shores of the Atlantic, placing an American flag to mark every mile to honor those who have lost their lives in Iraq. At the end of September, he will be placing them in Otsego County. His 4,514-mile journey began in May in Astoria, Oregon, and will end when he reaches Rockland, Maine, a distance of 4,514 miles. Ehredt plans to take a break in Cooperstown where, for at least one night, he will say with Bill Glockler. August 26, 2010
LIFE IN THE TIME OF COVID-19
When Vaccine Ready, Require It
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his week’s column from the information from was supposed to the city. be about the town• The Safe Act has been upheld in federal versus-gown conEditor’s Note: Co-President Julie Instead, after readcourt and, despite the group’s claims, is Sorensen submitted this position paper flict in Oneonta ing an article yesternot a violation of law-abiding gun owners on behalf of the League of Women Voters, reported on in last day from Reuter’s Second Amendment constitutional rights. Cooperstown area chapter. week’s paper. news agency entitled, It would, however, make local law Mayor Herzig “Hong Kong Reenforcement difficult, if not dangerous, for sent a letter to s covered in the news over the searchers Report First police officers faced with hav- both SUNY past few months, a Documented Coroing to figure out which laws to Oneonta and local initiative has navirus Reinfection,” enforce or not enforce. been launched to make Otsego Hartwick ColI realized I had to • Second, gun injury research lege outlining the County a Second Amendment discuss this because has repeatedly demonstrated Sanctuary (SAS). hopes and risks of it will get played up, that states with strong, sensible students following RICHARD The focus of the initiative probably overplayed, gun-safety laws have lower is to subvert state gun control STERNBERG behavior stanin the mass media. gun-death and injury rates than dards expected of measures, such as those manA man in Hong states with weak gun laws. dated by the state SAFE act, the returning college stuKong who had a docuIn fact, New York State enacted in 2013. dents and the need to keep mented case of COVID-19 has some of the most effective transmission low. The group has gathered over was infected again four-andgun laws in the country and, as of 2017, 3,000 signatures on a petition, which may He had a favorable rea-half months later with a had the third-lowest gun-death rate in the be presented to the Otsego County Board sponse from Hartwick, not different strain of the virus. country and the second-lowest crime gun of Representatives as early as its Sept. 2 so much from SUNY. By the This is the first docuexport rate. monthly meeting. way, the mayor’s letter in Louisiana, in comparison, does not require my opinion was spot on and This petition calls for the Board to OTHER VOICES background checks, ammunition is not declare Otsego County a SAS. simply informative. regulated, and assault weapons can be freely • Any SUNY students This movement is problematic for several purchased and transferred. Louisiana has the unknowingly violating the fourth highest gun-death rate in the country. local law and getting penalreasons. • • First, even if a SAS ordinance were ized for it have only the Moreover, nationally, more than 36,000 passed by the board, it would not override school’s administration to Please See LEAGUE, A6 blame for “shielding” them state law. emocratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has an enthusiasm problem with two key constituencies he needs one by one, Lehenbauer said. The real problem is in the swing EDITORIAL/From A4 to win: Younger voters and Until now, Americans have expected states – they are numerous, but the key African Americans. of paper ballots that needed to be to know election results the night of four are considered to be Wisconsin, counted by hand. Humans made Only 25 percent of voters Election Day – Bush vs. Gore in 2000 Michigan, Pennsylvania and Florida. aged 18-39 are “very mistakes. being the dramatic exception. This “It could well be a while,” said • enthusiastic” about voting year, the county Elections Board has Henrici, “unless the spread’s so wide for him. And CNN reports While not “universal mailing,” to provide its results by Nov. 28 to the there is a presumptive victory.” allowing the expansion of absentee that Biden’s support among New York State dodged the voting is challenge enough, but at least state Board of Elections, which has Black voters is smaller until Dec.7 to certify the results. “universal mailing” bullet. However, than Clinton’s was in 2016. Sister Lehenbauer and Brother Henrici It may take that long. nine states are engaging in “universal Worse, only 68 percent of know the system. We can hope it’s a • mailing,” for the first time. The fear, African Americans aged 18 slam dunk, but that’s not guaranteed. Of course, in New York State Demo- of course, is that there will be enough to 29 say they intend to vote In 2012, Obama vs. Romney, 1,841 crats dominate statewide, so it would irregularities to cast doubt on the absentees were counted locally. In for Biden – 17 points fewer be a miracle – a major miracle, not a presidential outcome. 2016, Trump vs. Clinton, 2,153. than supported Clinton four minor one – if Donald Trump were to • This year, two-thirds of Democrats years ago. beat Joe Biden in our Empire State. In 2000, the “hanging chads” in – 5,551 ballots – voted in the June 23 If you think Democrats Still, it would be nice to know how Broward County, Florida, sent Bush are confident these voters primary. “We’ve never broken 1,000 vs. Gore to the U.S. Supreme Court, will turn out, count how for a primary before,” said Lehenbauer; Otsego County goes. And of course, there are key local races: Congressman which stopped the recount, giving the many times they urged viewit’s usually in the 500 range. Antonio Delgado, D-19, vs. Dutchess prize to the Republican. There are 33,944 voters in Otsego ers to “make a plan” to vote. County attorney Kyle Van De Water, That was then, and things were County. If the general election folAn energized base doesn’t plus four Assembly races, including tense enough. With today’s enmity be- need that kind of encouragelowed what happened in the primary, Assemblyman John Salka, R-Brooktween the two parties, how acceptable ment. and 58 percent of us vote absentee, field, vs. Oneonta Democrat Dan would that outcome be to the many the county Board of Elections may be Those efforts at base Buttermann. millions of voters at large? counting some 20,000 paper ballots, mobilization came at a cost.
A
mented case of reinfection. Since it is a different strain, it can’t just be that the initial infection lay dormant and then flared up. • Previous reported cases of repeat infections were not fully documented as being a distinct new infection. According to reports from China from those discharged from hospital, there was a later 5-to-15 percent infection rate. This could’ve been due to multiple causes including low-testing reliability, the virus still existing in the patient’s body, and/or a poor immune response. While reinfection sounds Please See STERNBERG, A6
We Don’t Want Your Votes, Working-Class Whites Told
EDITORIAL: State Avoids Crisis; But Nation?
D
There was virtually no effort to win back the working-class voters who voted twice for Barack Obama but defected to Trump in 2016. The reason Trump is president today is because about one-third of the nearly 700 counties that twice voted for Obama went for Trump in 2016. According to Nate Cohn of the New York Times, Trump won because he “flipped millions of white working-class Obama supporters to his side.” If you were a working class Obama-Trump voter watching this week’s convention, you heard a lot about gun violence, racial justice and climate change, but not much directed at you. The message you heard was: Democrats are not interested in your support. MARC A. THIESSEN Washington Post column Aug. 21, 2020
THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
FIRE GUTS ONEONTA AUTO REPAIR SHOP
LETTERS
Understanding Donald Trump – From T To P
To The Editor: What does “Trump” really stand for? ►T – for Trump himself and only himself. Truth: “He can’t recognize or handle the truth” ►R – righteous? Yes – self-righteous. ►U – United States of America? Only if he controls the immigration rights of those he doesn’t want here! Thank you, God, there wasn’t a problem where all our ancestors came for a better life – “Give me your tired and poor…” ►M – Mortality numbers from COVID – over 175,000 to date. (The number does not include deaths from heart, cancer, etc.) Trump’s reply: “It is what it is”. So un-sympathetic to the thousands who have lost their loved ones. ►M – Where is Trump’s mask? ►P – People – you, me, all people’s lives matter, black, white, Native Americans, Asian, Mexican, etc. – All. ►P – Power. This President knows he has it to use; what Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA & The Freeman’s Journal he doesn’t know or care about is his misuse! All said, he City Fire Investigators Joe Tiemann, right, and Brian Knapp survey the remains of Nate’s Tire & Auto, really is very weak. 4 Railroad Ave., Oneonta, next to the Depot Restaurant, which was gutted by a blazing fire Tuesday, Our world is in such turmoil and unrest. Is this really what Aug. 25. The call came in at 3:55 a.m. .The Norfolk Southern rail line was shut for a short time, as we want to continue? Only we can change it, even in a small city firefighters used a hydrant across the tracks; a lightning storm also stalled firefighting efforts way, to make every day a better, kinder day for all. Please for 10 minutes. “We had the firefighters seek shelter.” said Chief Pat Pidgeon, “We didn’t want vote with the heart and not the party. them acting like a lightning rod while up in the aerial unit.” No injuries were reported, but four cars God bless the United States of America and all. and two trailers were damaged. The fire, which is believed to have started on the east side of the CAROL ADAMS HIGHFIELD building, is still under investigation. During the fire, Laurens firefighters covered the station, and West Oneonta was on stand-by. A Native Daughter of this beautiful Cooperstown. P.S. Some people are saying Joe Biden should not run for president because he doesn’t always remember things. I wonder if that’s been Trump’s problem all these years – he says one thing one day and the very next day changes what he said. It’s been proven that he has lied to all of us over think it most certainly will be) how must, continue to get our annual flu STERNBERG/From A5 20,000 times since in office. Is this the future you really should we respond? vaccines. The flu is not going away. I want? “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me” like it might be a reason to get very • One, vaccines produced will need would think that somebody who has concerned again, especially about the to be multivalent, that is, be effective the flu would also be more susceptible effectiveness of vaccination, there are against multiple strains of the virus. to developing COVID-19 symptoms, several reasons, in my opinion, not to. • Two, the vaccine will need to be and more severe symptoms, than If you remember my column of four given at repetitive intervals, similarly somebody without the flu. weeks ago, we discussed the concept These punishments, being NEILSEN/From A4 to the flu vaccine, which is now given In any event, the flu is not going of requiring annual vaccines, just as put forward in relation to an complaint with the way he on an annual basis. The interval of away and it kills tens of thousands of addresses the incoming mem- offense against community, we strongly recommend with flu now. Americans every year on its own. In It is also important to remember that to vaccinating is yet to be determined. bers of this community. In my specifically its health and (As an aside, this shows why the my opinion, and solely in my opinion, teenage years, as I transition- wellbeing, fall short of get reinfected, one had to be infected getting a vaccine stimulates the impreviously and survived (of course, on company that comes up with the most ed from high school to a new Mayor Herzig’s well-inteneffective vaccine and not necessarily mune response in the body and this the other hand, this doesn’t speak to tioned mission to have our community at Georgia State the first vaccine, stands to be the big might have some crossover affect any permanent damage done by this campus populations respect University, I was recoiling winner economically, because people against another organism. disease). the safety of the citizens of from the oppression of an will have to keep getting a vaccine Bottom line: Be aware, don’t panic, abusive childhood home. Additionally, we need to remember, Oneonta. throughout their lives.) maintain mask usage and social disthere have been over 23 million docuI propose that the best Authority and my new• Three, we need to accept that we tancing, and get your annual flu shot. found freedom were mutumented cases of COVID-19 worldway to convince others are going to have this disease around Richard Sternberg, a retired ally exclusive. I ran into, wide, with more than 800,000 deaths. that community is worth Bassett Hospital orthopedic surgeon, evaded, cheated my way The number of people with permanent with us for a very long time and, protecting, even by personal has agreed to provide his professional out of, and stirred up lots of impairment is unknown. With all these having sustained it, there will not sacrifice, is through the necessarily develop protection against perspective while the coronavirus minor trouble throughout numbers, this is the first documented “punishment” of commugetting it again. Social distancing, threat continues. Dr. Sternberg, my years as I desperately case that can clearly be proven that nity service. Though the including mask wearing, may become who is also a village trustee, attempted to overcome the somebody was reinfected. rebellious youth of SUNY a permanent thing. resides in Cooperstown. demons of my youth. • Oneonta and Hartwick may • Four, we must, and I emphasize If true and reproduced (which I well feel immortal, they will I was hurt, confused, and soon realize the precioussimply trying to escape the ness of both community and shadows of my life. Fines, potential jail time, or a petty their free time, when it’s spent volunteering, serving criminal record didn’t slow tively impact many more if we choose To provide local citizens with LEAGUE/From A5 and learning about its me down a bit. to ignore the evidence before us. information on the SAFE Act and Americans are killed every year by co-habitants. I’ve paid my dues, in all of The League of Women Voters of the potential legal and public-health guns in the United States. For teens Most of these children are their different forms, whether ramifications of a SAS, the LWVCA and young adults (15- to 24-year-olds), the Cooperstown Area (LWVCA), has only replicating behaviors financial or personal, in relaconsistently advocated for laws that and the League of Women Voters our mortality rate from guns is nearly and mindsets which they tion to these rebellions, and of Oneonta will be organizing a 50 times higher than the average of the are data-driven. The League has also grew up in, whether good for the troubles which resulted been active in efforts to address the virtual Zoom webinar in the next world’s other high-income nations. or bad, I can attest to that. for others in their wake. unacceptably high rates of gun-related few weeks. In fact, on a full global basis, Students, through service In light of that experience, deaths and injury. Details are soon to be featured on 90 percent of all gun-related deaths work, might discover parts let me offer a different At the same time, the League has the LWVCA and LWV of Oneonta in this age group occur in the U.S. of themselves that were approach to the potential threat always supported the preservation of Facebook pages, as well as the Clearly the epidemic of gun violence malnourished, neglected, of fines and criminal charges constitutional rights for responsible LWV of Oneonta website. in America has already touched many or even shunned in their which Mayor Herzig dangles gun owners. lives and has the potential to negain front of the recently liber- hometowns. I have no doubt that ated undergraduate class. volunteer efforts from top Fines are a worthless offenders will not only serve method of enforcement; grandkids how to bake pies. it as I have been these past several VELMA/From A4 as a true deterrent from they can be dodged or paid. Velma would do this season after weeks. My greatest hope is that we ing areas. Velma loved to fill you in. reckless behavior but may Additionally, they signal “I will adopt her connection to Pierstown, can purchase my way out Some call that gossip, but Velma never season as if she had never talked to even encourage the developthem about pie baking previously. hold each other dear, and continue to did it with a mean purpose that I can ment of new perspectives of this.” Criminal charges The two youngest came for a three-day cultivate a Grange and community that might scare off some timid recall. and skills which in turn would please Velma. I am working on minds, but the recklessness My grandkids simply refer to Velma visit as Velma’s health deteriorated. form useful citizens, perhaps They were all ready for blueberry and how to do that while missing Velma’s of college youth historically as “the pie lady.” My grandkids love they will learn not only the raspberry picking until I shared with “…well, anyway…” to pick too many berries knowing that overpowers fear of authority, importance of community, them the sad news of Velma’s immiPaul Lord, SUNY Oneonta professor and later breeds resentment they would be welcomed at Velma’s but that they belong to a nent demise. of biology and a researcher at and alienation towards back door. Velma would invite them great one, Oneonta! No, I can’t yet imagine a Pierstown the Biological Field Station on the very community they into her kitchen, put aside what she KYLE NEILSEN without Velma, but I am working on Otsego Lake, lives in Pierstown. already have little stake in. had planned for the day, and show my Oneonta
STERNBERG: Accept COVID Here To Stay
Community Service, Not Fines, Will Capture Students’ Attention
LEAGUE: County Should Resist Gun Sanctuary Idea
LORD: Beloved ‘Pie Lady’ Shared Pierstown’s Secrets
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THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7
New Judge Getman Brings Heritage Of Law, Medicine To Bench JUDGE/From A1 Before the Dollar General strip mall was built at the corner of Chestnut and Church streets, Drs. Albert and Norman Getman’s medical offices were there. And as if making the law-medicine affiliation official, Michael Getman’s mother Maggie and father Frank were in Albany – she studying nursing; he in law school – when their courtship developed. Even in the new judge’s generation, his brother Frank Jr. received a law degree from Boston College, (although he eventually went into business and is now president/CEO of Great Bay Renewables in Portsmouth, N.H.) Sister Margaret Bagnardi has a doctorate in nursing, and taught at James Madison University. His other brother, William, is a pediatrician in Austin, Texas. And Mike Getman himself, over his 30-year practice, chaired the Fox Hospital board of trustees during the successful merger negotiations with Bassett Healthcare Network. “It was the best thing for the entire county, not just Oneonta,” he said, saying it is still a work in progress. He now chairs the board of the Fox Hospital Foundation – it was founded by Oneonta Ford’s Sid Levine, Oneonta Yankees’ partner with Sam Nader and a hero of Getman’s – and
as such serves on the Friends of Bassett board, too. The GOP County Committee, meeting Sunday, Aug. 16, at The Otesaga, chose Getman from a field of six Republican lawyers to succeed County Judge Brian D. Burns, who will move up to state Supreme Court judge at year’s end. “All the discussion revolved around the qualifications of, wow, six very good candidates,” said county Republican Chairman Vince Casale. The goal was to identify “the most qualified.” At the end of each of the first two ballots, the candidate with the lowest tally dropped out. On the third ballot, Getman heard “34” and knew he had made it. In an interview in the Dietz Street office that his father, attorney Frank W. Getman, opened 1961, the new judge, who in addition to private practice has been an assistant D.A. since 1998, and city prosecutor, couldn’t estimate how many cases he’s tried over the years. However, he pointed out Oneonta’s town and city courts – his bailiwick – are the most active in the county, and since the latter computerized in 2012 he’s prosecuted 3,100 cases. “And that’s just City Court,” he said. Michael F. Getman was born on Nov. 23, 1957, and was raised on
Elm Street with his three siblings. “It seemed everybody lived on Elm Street,” he said, recalling how he’d walk to school; along the way, friend after friend would come out of their houses and join him en route. At Oneonta High School, he lettered in three sports, football, basketball and baseball, then went on to Colgate University – his dad’s alma mater – where he was a tight end on the football team. “Two of my closest friends, I played football with them,” he recalled. One, John Marzo, became Buffalo Bills medical director. Another, Angelo Collisomo, was director of sports medicine at the University of Cincinnati. Graduating in 1979, Getman spent two years coaching and teaching before reaching a crossroads. He took his LSATs, and was admitted to Nova University Law School in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he realized, “I really liked the grind, I really liked it.” (Most first-year law students hate it.) He realized Colgate had prepared him to drill deep into his studies. Law degree in hand, he spent two years as a public defender in Florida. The high point: meeting his future wife, Ellyn. The couple has three children: Sean, 26, “an aspiring baseball coach” at SUNY Cortland; Ceili (pronounced Kaylee), who
teaches environmental sustainability in Boston public schools; and Mary Margaret, 20, a student at Western New England College in Springfield, Mass. He then moved to Ellyn’s native Massachusetts, where he joined the Department of Corrections’ Legal Department, defending the commonwealth in civil suits brought by inmates, before returning home in 1991 in going into practice with his father. He practiced general law, but in 1998 began prosecuting as well, rising to chief assistant district attorney, and serving as city prosecutor, handling cases in Oneonta’s city and town courts, “the busiest in the county.” He praised District Attorney John Muehl, his boss since 2006, for “his work ethic and dedication to the job.” Muehl returned the compliment, calling Getman “honest, hardworking,” who “treats people with a great deal of respect.” Of the six lawyers seeking the judgeship, Getman was “the only person who was up to the job,” said the D.A., “regularly appearing in the courts where he will have jurisdiction.” He’s prosecuted so many cases, Getman said, it will present a shortterm challenge, since many of the cases he’s been involved in will be moving up to county court, a conflict.
Until those cases work their way through the system, the new judge said, he expects the other county judge, John Lambert of Cooperstown, will handle most criminal cases, while Getman will focus on Family and Surrogate courts. To be an effective prosecutor, he said, “I’ve got to look at both sides of the cases.” As judge, he will be “looking at both sides and trying to come up with a fair result.” If he knows a lot about current criminal cases, he knows a lot about his hometown generally, naming Levine; Oneonta’s benefactress Jesse Dewar – he never met her, but serves on the Dewar Foundation board; and and recently retired state Supreme Court Judge Michael V. Coccoma of Cooperstown as people he most admires. Here’s another example of his hometown knowlege. Tom Morgan and Erna Morgan McReynolds’ former home – that stone house on Clinton Street, now owned by Neal Miller – used to belong to Dr. Norman Getman, and the new judge happened to know his relative had installed coils in the front walk to keep ice from accumulating during the winter. When he mentioned it to Erna, she replied with surprise, “that must be the mystery switch by the front door.”
Feared Quagga Mussels Arrive QUAGGA/From A1 Neversink who is preparing her thesis on the return of the American eel to the Upper Susquehanna Basin. Sunken Island is on the lake’s north end, in a direct line between the Town of Springfield boat launch and the BFS boat house, but the new invasive is expected to spread, and fast. In five years, “fishermen won’t have much to fish for,” said SUNY Oneonta Biology Lecturer Paul Lord, a researcher at the Otsego Lake Biological Field Station, who was aboard the BFS research craft Anodontoides when Coney made her discovery. “The lake will just get clearer and clearer.” Both the zebra mussels and quagga mussels are filter feeders, filtering a liter a day of lake water, in the process removing plankton and algae, which other species need. “These guys are going to filter the water so all biological activity will occur on the bottom and not in the water column,” Lord said. (The water column is the portion of the lake between the bottom and the surface.) As is its mission, “BFS will be studying the changes that will follow this newest invasive colonization,” said Lord, and will keep the state Department of Environmental Conservation apprised of what it concludes. When the zebra mussel
western shoreline created a danger for barefoot swimmers. They also clog water lines and engines. The zebra has been limited the shallow water, Lord said; the quagga can inhabit the whole lake bottom, even the deep eastern shore that’s been largely free of the zebra variation now. The lake floor “will look like a broken-up coral reef,” said Lord, “dead shells everywhere.” The quagga is native to the Dneiper River in the Ukraine, and is believed to have arrived in North America in a freighter’s bilge sailing up the St. Lawrence River. The Freeman’s Journal It was first discovered in & HOMETOWN ONEONTA 1989 in Port Colborne, on the Paul Lord and Sarah Canadian side of Lake Ontario, Coney examine the and has since populated all the bucket that brought a Great Lakes and hopscotched quagga mussel from the eastward through the Finger bottom of Otsego Lake Lakes, Cayuga, Seneca. to the surface. It’s said a female quagga mussel can produce one million arrived in 2008, normal eggs per year; 99 percent die, visibility in the water was 3 but 1 percent (10,000) remain. meters “on a really clear day,” Lord said it’s likely microhe continued, the relative scopic mussels were brought to murkiness indicating nutrients Otsego Lake in a bait bucket, that keep a range of lake or the bottom of a kayak or species healthy. canoe that had been in, for Since the zebras arrived, instance, Cayuga Lake. that visibility has increased to Despite the boat-washing 6-7 meters, and, the other day, program at Cooperstown’s boat Lord measured 10.3 meters of launch at the end of Fish Road, visibility. Coney said boat can still enter While the clarity may please the lake from hotels around some swimmers, the way the lake that provide directed the zebra mussels encrusted access. shallow water along the lake’s
Callahan Murder Conviction Overturned
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MURDER/From A1 “But their interest of justice is for a murderer, not a victim, who was a loving mother and a member of a close-knit family.” The Appellate Division, Third Department, state Supreme Court, overturned Callahan’s 2017 conviction for second-degree murder in the 2000 death of his wife, Elizabeth Welsh, on the grounds that not enough evidence was presented at trial. “Because the evidence of the defendant’s guilt was not overwhelming, there must be a new trial,” the decision read. “It’s ridiculous,” said Muehl. Callahan was found guilty after a four-day trial, where Muehl laid out the case that the husband deliberately ran over his wife with his 18-wheeler in the parking lot of the Dandy Mart #19 in Sayre, Penn, just over the state line from Binghamton. “I can kill someone and get away with it,” Muehl said in his opening remarks at trial, using what he described as the exact words of Callahan to Elizabeth’s brother, Patrick Welsh, just four months before her death: “I’d take somebody for a ride, stop at the Dandy Mart just off Route 17, just inside Pennsylvania, and run them over. They’ve got a Mayberry police department. They’re understaffed. They wouldn’t investigate an accident. That’s what they’d call it – an accident.” At the trial, multiple witnesses testified to Callahan’s abuse of his wife, including her psychiatrist, Dr. Joan Bachorik, who said that the day before Elizabeth’s death, she told her that she was afraid Callahan would kill her. But in the ruling, the defendant, Callahan, challenged Amanda Travis’ testimony that she saw him abuse her aunt as “beyond the scope of the Molineux application” because the prosecution requested to offer proof of verbal and emotional abuse by Callahan, but Travis also testified to witnessing him kick Elizabeth in the stomach. “As such, the niece’s testimony, some of which was hearsay, exceeded the scope of the People’s Molineux application and deprived the
The Freeman’s Journal & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
A smiling defendant Casey Callahan is led from Otsego County Court during the murder trial in his wife’s death. defendant of a fair trial,” the ruling read. Although no objections were made to Travis’ testimony by the defense during the trial, the judges still acknowledged that her testimony was unfair to Callahan. “Despite this infirmity, we deem it appropriate under the particular circumstances of this case to exercise in the interest of justice jurisdiction and reverse the judgment.” “Was I supposed to object to myself?” said Muehl. “The defense didn’t object and had no reason to.” The judges upheld two of the challenges, including the jurisdiction issue. Callahan picked up Elizabeth at their home in Goodyear Lake before he drove her across the state line, where he ran her over with his truck as she tied her shoe. “The jury correctly concluded that the People established beyond a reasonable doubt that defendants ‘conduct in New York … manifested [his] intent to commit the crime.” Muehl blamed “unqualified people” on the appellate bench. “The problem is that the governor has appointed judges who have never tried a jury trial,” he said. “How are you supposed to review proceedings if you’ve never been involved with one?”
THURSDAY, august 27, 2020
A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
‘Say Their Names’ In Cooperstown Week One, 2 SUNY-O Students Brings New Life Stories To Surface Test Positive For COVID Virus
STUDENTS/From A1 her proposal, the PHOTOS/From A1 19, SUNY Oneonta Village found that The database keeps announced the original section of track of black men “I was hoping we’d make fencing she proposed it through the first week,” and women killed was property of The said President Barbara Jean by racially fueled Baseball Hall of violence and police Morris. Fame. brutality. According to county “It doesn’t change Public Health Director “Porter Moss was it if I move it to a player in the Negro Heidi Bond, neither student another part of the Leagues, killed in was on campus during fence that the village the communicable period. 1944,” she said. “He owns,” she said. was shot on a train by The county Department of Additionally, another black man, Health has begun contact Trustee MacGuire but he didn’t die right tracing to notify any students Benton asked that an or faculty who may have away. His teammates end date be added, were looking for a come in contact with the “for procedural doctor at every stop, two individuals. purposes.” but none of the white “I wish both of them “We don’t want doctors would treat a speedy recovery,” said to undercut or take him because he was Herzig. “We have no doubt anything away,” he black, and so he died.” that the overwhelming Jim Kevlin/ said. “But in any “It’s a great idea,” majority of students know The Freeman’s Journal & HOMETOWN ONEONTA permit, there’s a said Mayor Ellen the risks and are taking “Say Their Names” organizer sunset clause.” Tillapaugh Kuch. precautions, but it doesn’t Jennifer Dibble, Hartwick, shows The permit, though take that large of a The memorial approved, was would include nearly photos of baseball player Porter percentage to ruin it for left, and early Civil Rights contingent on several everyone else.” 200 laminated photos Moss, activist Octavius Catto, who she’s additional changes, of black men and adding to the Cooperstown version Calls to the city’s newly including taking the established COVID-19 women – children, of the photo display. memorial down by too – from the “Say tip-line were enough to keep Both names, as well as Dec. 1 or whenever Their Names” memoOneonta police busy over any others she adds, will the weather makes mainte- the weekend, with one ticket rial database, affixed to also be added to the datanance problematic, getting the fence with zip-ties, and issued for a noise complaint. base “for the next town to approval from the owner of decorated with flowers. “When we responded, it use.” the property and limiting the looked like it was starting to “It’s the 100th anniverA similar memorial was gathering during the opening go in the wrong direction,” sary of Doubleday Field and of the Negro Leagues, so it’s erected in Oneonta earlier in ceremony to no more than said Police Chief Doug 50 people, per state COVID Brenner. “There were a few perfect timing,” said Dibble, the month, along the fence above the Westcott Lot. guidelines. a Hall of Fame retail buyer. other calls, but when we “I went to the dedication Even before the village “And it’s personal to me arrived, people were starting of the memorial in Oneonta guidelines were set, she because I have two bi-racial to scatter, so we stuck and as the opening ceremony said she only planned to children, and although my around to make sure they was starting, I was on my keep the memorial up for kids have had great experimoved along.” “Four-to-six weeks,” citing ences growing up here, there phone, trying to figure out Morris said she received how it could be brought to concerns that weather have been incidents.” “no reports” from either Cooperstown.” would damage it. In addition to Moss, OPD or Campus Police. “If A dedication, including Dibble’s research into the blessings from Jonathan Negro Leagues uncovered Octavius Catto, a civil rights Brown and Rev. LaDana activist who helped establish Clark, is tentatively schedBUY • SELL • RENT uled for Saturday, Sept. 19. Philadelphia as a baseball “I would like to stress hub for what would become Also specializing in Property Management that this is not an anti-police the Negro Leagues. Rob Lee memorial,” Dibble wrote He was killed by Frank Licensed Real Estate Salesperson in her proposal. “There are Kelly, a white man, on Election Day, Oct. 10, 1871, actual police members who as he was attempting to vote. are part of the names and 607-434-5177 photos that are listed in the “The man who killed him roblee1943@gmail.com memorial.” was released immediately,” However, in examining she said.
we do hear of students who are acting outside of our plan and violating our rules, they will move through the judicial process,” she said. Students arrived back to SUNY last week. According to college spokesperson Kim MacLeod, students were asked to quarantine at home prior to coming to campus. “It was an honor system,” she said. On campus, the school is testing wastewater and also participating in “pool testing” the saliva from 20 students at a time; if COVID turns up, the group is then fully vetted. “It’s saving a lot of time and energy,” she said. “And because the testing sites are situated around campus, it can pick up employees and off-campus students too.” The two students with the virus were tested at offcampus clinics, according to Morris. They can either quarantine at home or on campus in Tobey Hall, which has been so designated for COVID cases. Across West Street, freshman students were set to return to Hartwick College on Wednesday, Aug. 26, with classes starting next week. According to Hartwick spokesman David Lubell, several students have already been declined entry to the campus after reporting a positive COVID test. Hartwick students are
required to show proof of a negative COVID test before returning to campus, and will be tested regularly throughout the semester, which ends with the Thanksgiving break. “(Facilities Director) Joe Mack was saying he was convinced that we were going to be one of the schools that made it,” said Lubell. “We’re covering as many bases as we can.” And with the return of both colleges, Herzig said that police patrols will be increased downtown next weekend. “Our guys carry masks to hand out,” said Brenner. “But at this point, it should be like putting on your pants.” “Enforcement can be effective,” said Herzig. “But it’s not as effective as communication and education. “ On Sunday morning, Herzig said he sent an email to Morris, inviting her to sit down and talk about student behavior downtown. She declined to talk with him. “She felt the issue should be taken up with the Control Room (a town-gown oversight group) when we meet,” he said. “She’s appointed two of her staff to it.” “I look forward to what the (Control Room) has to say,” said Morris. “When my schedule allows, I’ll come to the meetings.” New Purchases and Refinances Debt Consolidation Free Pre-Qualification Fast Approvals • Low Rates
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All
OTSEGO.overcomes
THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
PAGE B-1
CAN IT!
what’s fun
in Otsego County
BEST BETS Red Shed’s Wyatt Crowley and, inset, Council Rock’s Roger Davidson show off their new product – canned beer, which helped get them through the coronavirus shutdown.
AllOTSEGO.overcomes
Jim Kevlin & Ian Austin/
The Baseball Hall of Fame celebrates Jackie Robinson Day with a virtual field trip this Friday.
A HOF Field Trip; Hit The Drive-In, Or Books & Coffee
You Betcha! C In Time Of Challenge, Breweries Get A Boost years,” he said. “And back in February, we just bit the bullet and bought the machine.” Dubbing the cans “Crowlers,” Davidson can put any beer the brewery offers – Goldenrod Ale is the most popular – into a sealed 32ounce to-go can, perfect for sharing a pint – or enjoying by yourself. (“Crowler” is shorthand for “canned growler,” the traditional 64-ounce bottle also available at local craft breweries.) Please See CANS, B3
By LIBBY CUDMORE HARTWICK SEMINARY
W
hen Roger Davidson ordered the new canning machine for Council Rock Brewery, he didn’t know it would be his restaurant’s lifeline. “We’ve been kicking around the idea of canning our beers for a few
ONEONTA ROTARIANS REDOUBLE EFFORT
Challenged, ‘Operation Warm’ Aims To Keep More Kids Cozy the week before Thanksgiving 2009, end check to: and temperatures were Oneonta in the 50s. ONEONTA Rotary Fund, “I remember one Box 1122, Oneonta decade of little girl crying,” he NY 13820 Operation said. “It was the first For tax deduction, write “OpWarm has coat she ever had that eration Warm” in memo line. created a decade of was new.” warm memories. It began by happen“The pride of ownership is something stance; or maybe it was providential. Lynne Sessions photo In 2009, Oneonta Rotarian Sam new for a lot of the kids,” said Oneonta “Operation Warm” committee members Rotarian Dave Mattice. A National Koury, then district governor, returned Dave Mattice and Cindy Struckle pose Weather observer, he recalled the club’s from the national convention with the first distribution – 40 coats – happened Please See COATS, B3 with last year’s deliveries. By JIM KEVLIN
A
►$25 KEEPS CHILD WARM
S
elebrate Jackie Robinson Day and learn about the life and career of the Hall of Fame infielder & Civil Rights Pioneer with a Zoom field trip. 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, Hosted by The Baseball Hall of Fame. Visit https://baseballhall. org/events/virtual-fieldtrip-Jackie-RobinsonDay?date=0 • Have you danced a polka LIBBY this summer? If not, now’s CUDMORE your chance as Fritz’s Polka Band performs a virtual concert live from Neahwa Park. 7 - 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, www.facebook.com/oneontarec/. • The Glimmerglass Festival gives a glimpse of ‘From The Diary of Sally Hemmings’ a dramatic song cycle that imagines the experience of Sally Hemmings, as told through fictional diary entries. Presented by Glimmerglass Festival. 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27. Visit www.glimmerglass.org/ • Grab a cup of coffee and join the Huntington Memorial Library for a discussion of literature, book recommendations and more. 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28, www.facebook.com/hmloneonta/. • It’s a free drive-in movie with a screening of ‘Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.’ Gate opens 8 p.m., movie starts at dusk, Saturday, Aug. 29, Foothills Performing Arts Center Parking Lot, Oneonta. (607) 353-7143. • Learn about Oneonta Studio Photographers with Wayne Wright, 1 - 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug 3, The Swart-Wilcox House Museum, Wilcox Ave., Oneonta. • An open mic of community members, presented by the Glimmer Globe Theater. Fenimore Art Museum. www.facebook. com/fenimoreartmuseum/
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL • HOMETOWN ONEONTA
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THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
Covid-19, free. Registration required. Greenie’s, 2591 St. Hwy. 7, Otego. 607-547-4279. RABIES CLINIC – 9 - Noon. Free rabies vaccination for cats, dogs, ferrets. Reserva-
tions required. First come, first serve. Susquehanna SPCA, Rt. 28, Cooperstown. 607-547-4230. GLIMPSE – 5:30 p.m. Enjoy first look at ‘From The
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Diary of Sally Hemmings’ dramatic song cycle imagining her experiences as a slave of Thomas Jefferson, told through fictional diary entries. Presented by Glimmerglass Festival. Visit glimmerglass. org/events/ BIRD CHAT – 7 p.m. New bird watchers chat with experienced birders of Delaware Otsego Audubon Society. Bring questions & observations. Visit www.facebook. com/DelawareOtsegoAudubonSociety/ for details. WORD THURSDAY – 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy pre-recorded openmic by area poets followed by presentation featuring poets from 2019 spring workshop ‘Seeing Things.’ Presented by Bright Hill Press. Visit www. facebook.com/brighthp/ CONCERT SERIES – 7 - 9 p.m. Live From The Park, Oneonta Summer Concert series features Fritz’s Polka Band. Visit www.facebook. com/oneontarec/ for info. BENEFIT CONCERT – 8 p.m. Virtual concert to thank America’s farmers, ranchers for dedication to keep our food system going. Proceeds benefit 4H program for kids. Visit cceschoharie-otsego. org/events/
►Friday, August 28 OPEN MIC – Virtual per-
The
job scene To place effective employment ads, call 607-547-6103
Start NOW! Start TODAY! Multi-skilled workers…. Electrician…
Your skills are needed right away!! Large, State of the art facility in Gilboa, NY is seeking full-time employees immediately. Being multi-skilled is a big PLUS! Excellent place to work with rewarding pay. Contact Toba Shifrin | 973-855-9639 Toba.Shifrin@thezone.org
Facility Manager/ Director of Operations Large facility in Gilboa, NY, seeking dynamic manager immediately. Includes all general maintenance, and all other duties. Fabulous work environment. Great team. Excellent pay. Experience and resume required. For all applications, please submit your resume and contact information to: chana.horowitz@oorah.org
DEPUTY CLERK – TREASURER (full-time) The Village of Cooperstown is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Deputy Clerk – Treasurer. This is a full-time position. Duties will include front counter coverage, payroll processing, accounts payable and receivable and other related customer service duties. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include paid vacation, holidays, sick time and personal days, and health insurance.
Please send resumé, cover letter and references to Teri L. Barown, Village Administrator, Village of Cooperstown, PO Box 346, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Any questions regarding this position should be directed to the Village Administrator at 607-547-2411. Candidates must be Otsego County residents. EOE
_______ what’s fun in OtsegO COunty
formances by local performers, presented by Glimmer Globe Theater. Fenimore Art Museum. www.facebook. com/fenimoreartmuseum/ BLOOD DRIVE – 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Donate blood, save lives. Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St., Oneonta. 800-733-2767. LIT LATTES – 10 a.m. Discuss literature, book recommendations, hear from guest speakers, more with Huntington Memorial Library. Visit www.facebook.com/hmloneonta/ to participate. FIELD TRIP – 2 p.m. Celebrate Jackie Robinson Day. Learn about his career on the field and in the civil rights movement. Free, registration for Zoom conference required. Hosted by The Baseball Hall of Fame. Visit baseballhall.org/events/ MUSIC ON MAIN – 6 - 8 p.m. Get out & enjoy live performance by The Jazz Trio featuring Tim Iverson. Pioneer Park, Main St., Cooperstown. www.wearecooperstown. com/free-fridays/ STREAMING CONCERT – 7 p.m. Enjoy virtual concert presented by Bruce Ward, John McCutcheon, Matt Nakoa, others scheduled to perform at opera house. Support historic theater. Benefit for Earlville Opera House. www. earlvilleoperahouse.com
►Saturday, Aug. 29 ONEONTA FARMERS MARKET – 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Find local food, crafts, more. Wash hands, maintain social distancing. Pre-order, pick-up available. Muller Plaza, Main St, Oneonta. www.oneontaf-
armersmarket.com COOPERSTOWN FARMERS MARKET – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find food, crafts, more by local growers, artisans. Wash hands before entering, maintain social distance. Pre-order, pickup available. Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. www.facebook.com/CooperstownFarmersMarket/ FAMILY FARM DAY – 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Explore local farms throughout Schoharie, Otsego, and Delaware Counties through online farm product listings. View guide at www.familyfarmday.org MUSIC ON MAIN – 1 - 3 p.m. Enjoy live performance by Central NY saxophone quintet, Saxalicious. Pioneer Park, Main St., Cooperstown. www.wearecooperstown. com/free-fridays/ LIFE SKILLS – 4 - 6 p.m. Teens learn skills from laundry to banking & budgeting with Lynn of Oneonta Teen Center. Located at The Sol Center, 50 Dietz St., Oneonta. 607-441-3999. DRIVE-IN MOVIES – 8 p.m. Showing ‘Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.’ Starts at dusk. Free, donations welcome. Foothills Performing Arts Center Parking Lot, Oneonta. 607-353-7143.
►Sunday, August 30 FARMER’S MARKET – 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Find crafts, produce by local farmers, artisans. 3909 St. Hwy. 28, Curry Park, Milford. 607-287-2460. FARMER’S MARKET – 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Farm fresh produce, crafts. Franklin Farmer’s Market, 15 Institute St., Franklin. 615-592-1337.
Groundskeeper/ Manager Large, state of the art facility in Stamford, NY, Seeking a reliable and experienced Grounds Keeper/Manager for full time employment. Knowledge of landscaping, fencing, plumbing and electrical is ideal for this position. Duties include: managing all Campus grounds, their maintenance and security. Resume preferred. Join our fabulous team in a beautiful country setting. Job includes free rent and wifi. Contact: Martino @ Martino. Corto@oorah.org 607-644-6827
HEAVY MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR (full-time)
The Village of Cooperstown has an opening for the position of
Heavy Motor Equipment Operator.
Requirements include the possession of a valid New York State CDL Class A or B license, and experience in the operation of heavy equipment. This is a full time position with a starting salary of $18.6447 per hour and benefits that include paid leave time, health insurance and NYS Retirement System. Applicants must be a resident of Otsego County. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
For further information regarding the positions and to obtain an application, please contact the Village Administrators office at 607-547-2411 or send your resume and cover letter to: Teri L. Barown, Village Administrator, Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
EOE
Join Our Team of Dedicated and Caring Professionals
Residential Associates at OFO Shelters FT-2nd shift (wknds), Sub--all shifts; Addl. shift pay for qualifying shifts
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The Watershed Agricultural Council, a non profit organization working to protect the NYC Watershed while supporting farm and forest land uses, is seeking a
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Coordinator.
The GIS Coordinator works in coordination with multi agency, self-directed specialized work teams to provide cartographic and analytical support to all Watershed Agricultural Council (WAC) and Watershed Agricultural Program (WAP) program efforts. The GIS Coordinator is responsible for managing the GIS program, both hardware and software, data inputs, maintain data bases, providing requested analysis and the training of system users. Qualifications and requirements detailed in position description available at http://www.nycwatershed.org/careers. Salary: low $60,000s. To apply: Send cover letter and resume to Amy Faulkner, Watershed Agricultural Council, 33195 State Highway 10, Walton, NY 13856; or e-mail afaulkner@nycwatershed.org. EOE. Review of applications will begin September 17, 2020.
AllOTSEGO.life Rotary Club Assures No Kid Goes Cold
THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
Can’t Dine In? Get Your Favorite Beer To Go!
CANS/From B1 Davidson, who opened Council Rock in 2012, has credited the crowlers with helping him stay afloat when COVID-19 shut down restaurants in March, limiting them to take-out of, among other delicacies, Pesto Prize fries. “This is a reasonable amount of beer to share,” he said. “Or you can drink a couple of pints while you’re watching a ball game.” And he’s not the only one. During the coronavirus threat, Red Shed Brewery on Route 33, Town of Middlefield, has also turned to canning its beer so customers don’t have to go thirsty when they pick up their favorite take-out burgers or BBQ. “In February, we started planting the seeds of canning,” said Red Shed brewmaster Wyatt Crowley of Cherry Valley. “We wanted to expand our market to restaurants that don’t have a draft system, but could sell our cans.” Red Shed opened in 2015, starting first as a taproom on a hilltop between Roseboom and Middlefield Center, across from a deserted hop
AllOTSEGO.overcomes
Ian Austin/
Council Rock Brewery bartender Kyle Llewellyn, puts a custom label on a freshly pulled “crowler” of Goldenrod Ale as founder Roger Davidson observes.
barn, before expanding into a full-scale brew pub near Brewery Ommegang in 2018. With capacity at bars and restaurants locked at 50 percent, Red Shed has seen its sales of tap beer decline “drastically.” “Cans can help buffer that,” Crowley said. At Council Rock, the idea was to launch canned beer later this year, pairing it with take-out. COVID just moved things up, Davidson said. “We had been planning to expand our take-out busi-
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ness,” he said. “It wasn’t COVID-driven, but it was fortunate timing that we had it when we did – because we didn’t have much of a choice!” Council Rock has always offered growlers – 64-ounce bottles – but Davidson said the crowlers have proved more popular in the last few months. “When you open a growler, it starts to go flat if you don’t drink it right away,” he said. “But crowlers travel well, you can pick them up when you get take-out and you can recycle them.” Crowley agreed: “Growlers are great, but they don’t have a good shelf life. You can’t take them on a picnic
or to the golf course. They aren’t as versatile as a can.” Crowley partnered with Butternuts Brewery in Garrattsville, canning its popular Otsego Golden Ale and Jessica’s Red Ale in four packs of 16-ounce cans. “The response has been overwhelmingly good,” he said. “They’ve been flying off the shelves.” The Blue Mingo Grill, the Lakefront Restaurant and Spurbeck’s Grocery all carry Red Shed beers. At Council Rock, the crowlers are filled cold from the tap, then sealed and labeled. “To make it legal, you have to add the date, the style of beer and the alcohol content,” said bartender Kyle Llewellyn. With the food truck and outdoor patio, Red Shed has been able to continue serving through the summer, but Crowley is worried about what winter may look like. “Right now restaurants can function outside,” he said. “But in November and December, that isn’t possible. I’m a little nervous.” But he’s planning to take his cans on the road to reach restaurants in the Capital District. “Sitting down with a representative and cracking a four-pack to sample looks much more professional than opening a growler.”
All
COATS/From B1 idea for a new program: Raise money, and use the funds to buy winter coats for needy youngsters. Each year, Rotary club presidents – there are 33,000 clubs worldwide – pick a Presidential Project to mark their administrations. That year, Chad Smith, the Medical Coaches vice president, liked what he heard. Each year, the Oneonta club allocates $1,000 for the President’s Project, and Smith used the money to buy 40 coats and launch Operation Warm locally. Oneonta’s Riverside Elementary was the first beneficiary. “Tears were rolling down their cheeks – teachers and kids,” said Mattice. The Rotarians were hooked. For the next few years, the Oneonta Rotary Fund, the club’s 501(c)(3), and contributions from club members kept the program alive. That just $100 could keep four kids warm all winter was an appealing idea. In 2015-16, things picked up. Rotarian Laura Dohner wrote a grant application that won a one-time District 7170 grant $2,500. “That’s when it got expanded – to 180-200 coats a year,” said 2015-16 club President David Rowley,
OTSEGO.
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B-3
then recently retired Oneonta City Schools’ interim superintendent. In Christmas 2016, the coats were distributed under the presidency of Dan Maskin, OFO executive director. Also that Christmas, the Oneonta club’s Marie Lusins, who was also first female District 7170 governor, attended a Christmas play at Schenectady’s Proctor Theater. During the intermission, she saw a queue. It was a charity raising funds by raffling off state Lottery Scratch-Off tickets. She brought that idea back to Mattice, then 2017-18 club president. “Wow,” he said, “this might be our way to raise $2,500,” the amount covered by the grant the year before. “Lo and behold, we raised $4,000. The Rotarians sold raffle tickets, and also set up a booth at the Hometown Fourth of July, the Susquehanna Balloon Fest, and the Grand & Glorious Tag Sale, where the winning ticket was pulled. “Since then,” Mattice said, “we’ve been doing $4,000 a year – 180-200 coats.” “We” is the club’s Operation Warm Committee: Mattice, Rowley, Chad Smith, Cindy Struckle and Lynne Sessions, all past presidents, with the help of club members generally. The fall of 2017, the local club hosted the Rotary District 7170 convention at SUNY Oneonta, the club members were delighted to receive the district’s Helping Hands Award for Operation Warm. The Oneonta club’s success has been mirrored nationally, even internationally, since Dick Sanford of the Longwood Club in Kennett Square, Pa., noticed coat-less children shivering at a school-bus stop and launched the original effort; that club bought 58 coats that year. Today, over 270 Rotary Clubs in more than 95 districts have partnered with Operation Warm, over the past 22 years providing coats to more than 300,000 students. Mattice said the coats are fabricated in a non-profit factory in Wisconsin, and are partly made from a fabric created from recycled plastic bottles. “The kids get to pick the color,” he said. Every fall, the coats, individually sealed in plastic, arrive at Medical Coaches warehouse near Emmons, and club members ferry them to Riverside Elementary, where they are distributed to all Oneonta schools. Last year, all eligible K-5 Laurens Central youngsters received coats, said Rowley, plus some in Milford and Schenevus. “It’s a great cooperative effort,” he continued. “The schools do a great job of identifying the kids. Our job is to raise the money, get the coats ordered and get them distributed.” This year, with COVID19, “we think the need is going to be even greater,” said Rowley. What’s more, the usual Scratch-Off venues – the Fourth of July, balloon fest and tag sale – have been cancelled. At it happens, Mattice’s son, Dan, Reinhardt Home Heating president, is on the Rotary Fund board, and he’s pledged a matching grant: If the club can raise $3,000, Reinhardt will match it, for a total of $6,000. That would be a record. The goal: to have 300 coats ready for distribution this year. “We’re prepared,” said the father, whose dream is to eventually provide a warm coat for any Otsego County youngster who lacks one. Reinhardt’s company slogan is “We make warm friends.” Talk about happenstance. Or is it providential?
THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
B-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
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Legal nOtice PETITION IN SPECIAL PROCEEDING TO QUIET TITLE Index Number: EF2020-431 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION OF Maria P. Dingman, Executrix of the Last Will and Testament of Hale E. Dingman, Petitioner, ~ against~ John Doe et al., and any persons or entities found to have an interest in the property subject to this action but not yet named. Respondent( s). Petitioner, by her attorney Donovan Laughlin and Laughlin, LLC, Dennis B. Laughlin, Esquire, respectfully shows, upon information and belief: 1. That she is the Executrix of the Last Will and Testament of Hale E. Dingman, her late Husband. 2. Hale E. Dingman passed away on 7 July 2018. On 19 October 2018, Letters Testamentary were duly issued to Maria P. Dingman, Executrix of the Last Will and Testament of Hale E. Dingman by the State of New York Montgomery County Surrogate’s Court. A true copy of the Letters Testamentary are annexed hereto and made a pait hereof as Exhibit “A.” Property I 3. That since the 30th day of December 1994, Hale E. Dingman has been the owner in fee and in actual possession of the following described real property situate in the County of Otsego, State of New York, claiming under the Deed hereinafter mentioned: All that tract or parcel of land lying and situate in the Town of Cherry Valley, County of Otsego and State of New York more particularly designated as follows: Tax Map Parcel Number Location 18.03-1-25.00 County Highway 31 30.00-1-9.01 County Highway 32A 30.00-1-9.02 Salt Springville Road 4. That on the said 30th day of
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December 1994, the above described real property was conveyed to Hale E. Dingman by Deed in Otsego County. 5. That on the 26th day of January 1995, said Deed was duly recorded in the Office of the Otsego County Clerk in Liber 778 of Deeds at Page 772. A duly certified copy of said Deed is annexed hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit “B.” 6. That said conveyance was made in fee simple between Marion I. Dingman and Hale E. Dingman. Marion I. Dingman was the mother of Hale E. Dingman. 7. That both parties in the above mentioned conveyance are deceased, the said Marion I. Dingman having died in the County of Montgomery, State of New York on 28 April 2010, and the said Hale E. Dingman having died in the County of Montgomery, State of New York on 7 July 2018. 8. That there are no liens or incumbrances which now exist on said real property. 9. Petitioner has had exclusive, complete, actual, open, notorious, and continuous undisputed possession of the property since 30 December 1994. 10. That no persons other than Hale E. Dingman and the Petitioner have been in actual possession of said real property during the past ten (10) years claiming title as owners in fee. 11. That no persons, other than Hale E. Dingman and the Petitioner, have in the past ten (10) years made any claim as to title as owners in fee. Property II 12. That since the 16th day of September 2003, Hale E. Dingman has been the owner in fee and in actual possession of the following described real property situate in the County of Otsego, State of New York, claiming under the Quit Claim Deed hereinafter mentioned: “All that tract or parcel of land situate in the Town of Cherry Valley, County of Otsego and State of New York, described as Vacant Land, 2.86 acres, *Co. Hwy. 32A, Tax Map Number 30.00-126.00, formerly assessed to Roy and Joyce Tyler.” 13. That on the said 16th day of September 2003, the above described real property was conveyed to Hale E. Dingman
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by Quit Claim Deed in Otsego County.
2020.08.10 23:45:36 -04’00’
14. That on the 22nd day of September 2003, said Quit Claim Deed was duly recorded in the Office of the Otsego County Clerk in Liber 1018 of Deeds at Page 325 as Instrument Number 17359. A duly certified copy of said Quit Claim Deed is annexed hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit “C.”
Donovan Laughlin and Laughlin, LLC Dennis B. Laughlin, Esquire, of counsel 15 South Main Street, Suite 103 Oneonta, New York 13820-2688 (607) 432 6959 ~ (607) 264 9094 (facsimile) dennis @ donovanlaughlin.com 4LegalSept.17
15. That said conveyance was made in fee simple between the County of Otsego, a municipal corporation of the State of New York having it’s office and principal place of business located in the Village of Cooperstown, New York, and Hale E. Dingman. 16. That one party in the above mentioned conveyance is deceased, the said Hale E. Dingman having died in the County of Montgomery, State of New York on 7 July 2018. 17. That there are no liens or incumbrances which now exist on said real property. 18. Petitioner has had exclusive, complete, actual, open, notorious, and continuous undisputed possession of the property since 16 September 2003. 19. That no persons, other than Hale E. Dingman and the Petitioner, have been in actual possession of said real property during the past ten (10) years claiming title as owners in fee. 20. That no persons, other than Hale E. Dingman and the Petitioner, have in the past ten (10) years made any claim as to title as owners in fee. 21. That no previous application has been made for the relief prayed for herein. WHEREFORE, the Petitioner prays for an order declaring that the title of Hale E. Dingman to the above described real properties has been judicially established, and granting such other and further relief as the Court may seem just and proper. Dated: 10 August 2020 Attorney signature pursuant to Sec. 130-1.1-a of the Rules of the Chief Administrator (22 NYCRR) Dennis B. Laughlin, Esquire Donovan Laughlin and Laughlin, LLC Dennis B. Laughlin, Esquire, of counsel Attorney for Petitioner Digitally signed by Dennis B. Laughlin, Esquire Date:
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: SPRINGMEADOWS FARMS LLC. Certificate of Conversion filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 4 August 2020. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 307, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: EDITH’S ESTATE LLC Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 11 August 2020. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 46, West Oneonta, NY 13861. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF NAMES OF PERSONS APPEARING AS OWNERS OF CERTAIN UNCLAIMED PROPERTY HELD BY FIVE STAR BANK The following persons appear from our records to be entitled to unclaimed property consisting of cash amounts of fifty dollars or more: Cleveland Michelle E 130 Blackberry Dr. Oneonta NY 138203226 A report of Un-
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claimed Property will be made to the Comptroller of the State of New York, pursuant to Article III of the Abandoned Property Law. A list of the names contained in such notice is on file and open to public inspection at the principal office of the bank, located at 55 North Main Street, Warsaw, NY, where such abandoned property is payable. Such abandoned property will be paid on or before October 31 to persons establishing to its satisfaction their right to receive the same. In the succeeding November, and on or before the tenth day thereof, such unclaimed property will be paid to the Comptroller of the State of New York, and shall therupon cease to be liable therefore. 1LegalAug.27
Bluff, Worcester, NY 12197. 6LegalSept.24 Legal nOtice NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT Gary W. McCoy a/k/a Gary McCoy Nature of this action: foreclosure action involving real property commonly known as 2900 State Highway 80, Burlington Flats, New York seeking a judgment of foreclosure and sale for the amount due and owing to the Plaintiff, NBT Bank, National Association, under the Note and Mortgage with a current principal balance of Nineteen Thousand One Hundred Ninety Three and 53/100 Dollars ($19,193.53) together with interest, late fees and other charges.
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AMENDED SUMMONS
Notice of Formation of
Index No.: EF2020-34
Patriot APS, LLC
STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF OTSEGO
Filed w/ SSNY 8/10/20. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom proc. may be served & shall mail to 5001 St Hwy 23 Suite 3-148, Oneonta NY 13820. Any lawful purpose. 6LegalSept.24 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Public Notice is heareby given Under Sec.182 NYS Lien Law, that property described as contents of storage unit, will be sold at public auction at 6 p.m. on August 28th, 2020 at Rt. 23 Self Storage of Oneonta, 8745 St. Hwy. 23, Oneonta NY. The sale of such property is to satisfy the lien of Rt 23 Self Storage of Oneonta on property stored for the accounts of: Unit # 409 Edmund Kingston Unit # 507 Charles Ison Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF J&R PROPERTIES OF WORCESTER, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/1/20. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o Kehoe & Merzig, PC, 8-12 Dietz St., Ste. 202, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business location: 27 Solar
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NBT BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, -againstGARY W. McCOY a/k/a GARY McCOY; ELIZABETH McCOY; ELIZABETH V. ROONEY; ERIE MATERIALS INC.; ALLIED BUILDING PRODUCTS; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; VELOCITY INVESTMENTS, INC; CAVALRY SPV I, LLC; PORTFOLIO RECOVERY ASSOCIATES, LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; and JOHN DOE and MARY ROE, said Individuals being fictitious and intended as possible occupants of the premises which are the subject matter of this action, and whose identity is unknown, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above action and serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or if the service of the Summons is made by any means other than by personal delivery to you within the State of New York, within thirty (30) days after such service is complete. In case of your failure to appear
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or Answer thereto, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may Answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof.
copy of process to: 238 Percy Holmes Rd Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalSept.17
Otsego County is designated as the place of trial, the basis of venue in this action is the location of the mortgaged premises. 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. NOTICE TO THE DEFENDANT, GARY W. McCOY a/k/a GARY McCOY Dated: January 13, 2020 Clifton Park, New York BURGESS & ASSOCIATES P.C. Melissa H. Pugliese, Esq. Attorneys for plaintiff Office and P.O. Address 646 Plank Road, Suite 103 Clifton Park, New York 12065 (51 8) 371 -0052 4LegalSept.10 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF RADICALLY ALIGNED LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 07/27/20. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY desg. as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of the Local Gal, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 05/11/20. Office location: Otsego. SSNY desg. as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to 56 Center St, Oneonta, NY 13820. Any lawful purpose. 6LegalSept.17 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of 2229 County Highway LLC filed w/ SSNY 7/29/20. Off. in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agt. of LLC whom process may be served & shall mail process to the LLC, 1945 County Hwy. 22, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Any lawful purpose. 6LegalSept.17 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Arnold Lake, LLC . Filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/03/20. Office location: Otsego County. Walt Frazier designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Walt Frazier shall mail process to the LLC at 273 Southside Drive, Oneonta N.Y. 13820. Purpose: Any lawful activity 6LegalSept.10 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: HOTEL PRATT LLC Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 17 June 2020. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 50 Pioneer St, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalSept.10 Legal nOtice Notice of
DAILY FOR BREAKING NEWS OF OTSEGO COUNTY
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Formation of Goss Properties, LLC, Art. of Org. filed with SSNY on 6/25/20. Off. loc.: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom proc. may be served & shall mail 33 Ford Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp.: any lawful. 6LegalSept.3 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GREULICH REALTY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/23/2020. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Jeff Greulich, 9 Roaring Rock Rd., Washington, NJ 07882. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business location: 40 Maple Ave., Unadilla, NY 13849. 6LegalSept.3 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: PRIME’S OUTDOOR POWER LLC Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 24 July 2020. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 5715 US Hwy 20, East Springfield, NY 13333. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalSept.3 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: SPRINGFIELD CAMPGROUND LLC Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 24 July 2020. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 7761 State Highway 80, Springfield Center, NY 13468. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalSept.3
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL B-5
THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
OBITUARIES Services Sept. 5 For Jocelyn Alice Rauscher COOPERSTOWN - The life of Jocelyn Alice Rauscher will be celebrated Saturday, Sept. 5, at 484 Roscoe Jones Road in Cooperstown. Jocelyn, a talented artist, mother of five, grandmother of eight and devoted wife of 48 years, passed away April 16, 2020. Her warmth, love and laughter filled our spirits with joy.
The family requests that guests come prepared to share their thoughts, prayers and fondest memories of her. Though Jocelyn we grieve our Rauscher loss, there is joy too, in having known and loved such a special person. Because of COVID-19, only 50 can be accommodated at one time. Masks are required. Please RVSP and Where YOUR personal design indicate which time you’d like to attend. The options is OUR specialty are 1, 1:30, 2, 2:30, 3, or 20% IN-STOCK 3:30 p.m. A reception with OFF MEMORIALS Add’l lettering/carving extra light food and beverages will be catered by Lucy 312 Chestnut St., Oneonta 557 St. Hwy 80 East, New Berlin Townsend. RSVP to jeepgal31@ 607-433-0975 • 607-847-6549 sicklermemorials.com • sicklerm@outlook.com hotmail or 607-376-1551.
Grandma loved her farm, her family, and playing her old guitar. Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home will take the time to find out what made your loved one special. Whether it’s finding just the right flowers, or finding a musician to play her favorite tunes on her old guitar, we’ll do what’s necessary to make her service as unique as she was.
Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home 14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com
IN MEMORIAM
Bradley Goodyear Smith, 78 Cooperstown Philanthropist
COOPERSTOWN – Bradley Goodyear Smith, a native of Mobile and resident of Fairhope, Ala., passed away Aug. 13, 2020, at Cary Mede, the family’s summer home, near Cooperstown. Surrounded by her loving family, she succumbed with remarkable grace after a brave battle with progressive supranuclear palsy. Bradley was born June 16, 1942, in Mobile, where she was raised. Bradley was known for her kindness, humor, strength and Southern charm. She was well-read, of strong faith, and managed many responsibilities with a calm, capable resolve. She focused her attention with painstaking precision on any problem, large or small. As a hostess, Bradley was impeccably gracious, with an instinctive gift for making her guests feel comfortable. She had an impish twinkle in her eye and loved to giggle. Bradley served for 50 years as chair of the Monte Moorer Foundation in Mobile. She also sat on many other charitable boards, both in Alabama and Cooperstown, where she was a local icon and philanthropist. Honored by the City of Mobile as Queen of Mardi Gras in 1962, she was a radiant “queen mother” when each of
Bradley Goodyear Smith her daughters also reigned. She graduated from Spring Hill College in 1963 with a degree in English. Bradley equally loved Mobile Bay and Otsego Lake, where she could be seen piloting her beloved boats with gleeful expertise.
Velma F. (Fassett) Armstrong, 90; Pierstown Community Mainstay
COOPERSTOWN – Velma F. (Fassett) Armstrong, 90, a leader in the restoration of the Pierstown Grange, died peacefully at her home on Armstrong Road in Pierstown on Sunday Aug. 23, 2020, surrounded by her family. A lifelong area resident, Velma was born Oct. 24, 1929, at Bassett Hospital, the daughter of Owen and Iva (Richards) Fassett. She was raised on the family farm in East Springfield and graduated from Springfield High School. Following graduation Velma attended college in Albany but left school before graduating to return home to care for her mother, who was battling cancer, and to help raise her siblings. The Grange organization was a lifelong passion for Velma. It was at a Pierstown Grange function she met her future husband, Douglas Armstrong. Following their marriage at the East Springfield Presbyterian Church, they resided on and
worked on Doug’s father’s (Earl’s) farm in Pierstown. Following Earl’s death, they continued operating the farm and raised their family thereon. Velma was an active member of Grange. She was the chairman of its Family Activities Committee for many years and held the same post in the Otsego County Pomona Grange, where she also was an officer. In 2012, Velma was awarded the Otsego County Granger of the Year Award for her devotion to the grange organization. It was said that the members of Grange were her second family. Velma was also a member of the Leatherstocking Senior Group in Springfield Center and was a longtime member of the Otsego County Board of Elections. Always social, and actively involved in her community, she was an accomplished gardener, loved to “bird watch” (hummingbirds were her favorite), had a large
Roy Henderson, Sr., 80; Pursued Career As Maltster
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A lifelong tennis enthusiast, she loved to watch her grandchildren excel at the game she so loved. Later in life she took up the game of croquet. A fierce competitor, she played to win, but did so with her signature charm. Bradley was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, T. Gunter Smith; her parents, the former Susan Anne Robinson of Mobile and Bradley Goodyear Jr. of Buffalo; and her sister, Susanne Robinson Gwynn. She is survived by daughters Jeanette Goodyear Weldon (William) of Cooperstown, and Susanne Smith McAvoy (Matthew) of Darien, Conn., and five grandchildren on whom she doted: William James Weldon IV, Bradley Goodyear Weldon, K. Gunter Weldon, Christian Gallagher McAvoy and John (Jack) Goodyear McAvoy. She also is survived by brothers Lee Robinson (Maria) Gwynn and Richard Lee Bacon and by her uncle T. Lee Robinson. A celebration of Bradley’s joy-filled life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Mobile Carnival Association, P.O. Box 2121, Mobile, AL, 36652, or to Otsego 2000 c/o the Bradley Smith Fund, 101 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY, 13326.
SCHENEVUS – Roy A. Henderson Sr., 80, who amid varied careers spent 21 years as a maltster in a New Jersey malt plant, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020, at his home in Schenevus. Malt is used in brewing and distilling. He was the son of Ray & Selma (Anderson) Hendrickson, who predeceased him. Over his lifetime, Roy also worked for his brotherin-law’s flooring company and at a charcoal plant in New Jersey. After retiring to Schenevus, he cut logs for several years. He had many hobbies, including hunting and fishing. Survivors include his loving wife of 58 years, Darla (Budine) Hendrickson
of Schenevus; children Darla (Matt) Oakley of Stamford, Lory (Gino) DiMartino of Schenevus, and Roy Hendrickson Jr. of Stamford; eight grandchildren Also, five great-grandchildren. He was also survived by his brother Melvin (Gale) Hendrickson of Saddle Brook, N.J., and his sister Linda Hendrickson of Fairlawn, N.J. He was also predeceased by granddaughter Angela Moskowitz and several brothers and sisters. A gathering to celebrate Roy’s life will be held at Minekill State Park in Blenheim at a time and date will be determined. Arrangements are entrusted to Ottman Funeral Home.
butterfly collection, won many awards for her cooking and pies, and loved to Velma F. Armstrong travel. She was an animal lover and was devoted to her cats, especially her current ones, “Magic” and “Miss Kitty”. The most important and her favorite “activity” however was hosting gatherings of family and friends. Her impact on others was evident and she was affectionately known to many of her children’s friends simply as “Ma”. She is survived by her three children, son Wayne Armstrong and wife Corrine, daughter Iva Mayne and husband Dale, and daughter Marcella Wells and husband Darrell. Also by her grandchildren, Kristie McCartney (Kenny), Kim Johnson (Isaiah), Jason
Mayne (Robin) and Brian Mayne (Amy), and by her great-grandchildren, Reed, Connor, Wyatt, Summer, Sara, and Tyler. Visiting hours will be 2-4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at the Tillapaugh Funeral Home, 28 Pioneer St., Cooperstown, followed by funeral services at 4 p.m., officiated by Rev. September Schecter at 4pm. Burial and committal services will occur later. In keeping with current protocols, masks and social distancing will be required. To comply with the maximum permitted size of gatherings, we ask that you RSVP your intention to attend the visiting hours or service to the funeral home at 607-547-2571. For those who wish, the family suggests donations in Velma’s name be made to benefit the Pierstown Grange. Such donations may be made to “Otsego 2000” 101 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 with “Pierstown Grange” on the memo line.
Allan K. Rudd, 76; Career-Long Dairyman JORDANVILLE – Allan K. Rudd, 76, a career-long dairy farmer and proprietor of MTR Farms here, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, at Bassett Hospital. Allan was born on Jan. 10, 1944, in Hartford, Conn., a son of the late Allan S. and Madeline Parker Rudd. He was raised and educated in Ellington, Conn., and graduated from Rockville High School. On March 20, 1969, he married the former Inga Emmelmann, also of in Ellington, and the couple moved to Jordanville in 1972, where they ran their own dairy farm until his retirement in 2010. Surviving him besides Inga, his wife of 51 years, are a son Thomas Rudd and
Allan K. Rudd his wife, Dr. Kelly Rudd of Jordanville; a daughter, Dr. Stephanie Stein and her husband Dr. Joseph Stein of Hampton, N.J.; his four beloved grandchildren, and his sister Penny McNeish of Indianapolis. He was preceded in death by an infant son. Funeral services for Mr. Rudd will be private and at the convenience of his family.
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THURSDAY, August 27, 2020
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