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As of 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, AllOTSEGO. com becomes Otsego County’s Daily Newspaper/ONLINE, with world and national news, crosswords and more.

ditors with ink in their ing in leaps and bounds. from veins thrill at the news Since implementing a new the editor that traditional books are strategy Oct. 1 – when news rebounding (10 percent as of happens, we post it – traffic, mid-2018) and Kindle appears annualized, has grown to have peaked, and is now 50 percent – 50 percent! declining (3.8 percent). That’s 592,716 users, Happily, Otsego County’s 1,867,988 sessions, and newspapers – the 211-year-old 2,957,100 page views – in a Freeman’s Journal and Hometown county of 60,094 people and Oneonta, now 10 years old – are 23,627 households. stable, profitable and ever-strivSo beginning today, we JIM KEVLIN ing to serve the reading public, are relaunching www.Alland will continue to do so for the OTSEGO.com as: Otsego foreseeable future. County’s Daily Newspaper/ONLINE, But www.AllOTSEGO.com is growPlease See ALLOTSEGO, A7 Pat Wager/The Freeman’s Journal

Hampton Inn engineer Rudy Zona shows plans at Hartwick Planning Board public hearing Tuesday, Jan. 8.

Hampton Hit By Firemen, Competitors HARTWICK

irefighters and competitors raised objections Tuesday, Jan 8, at a public hearing on a Hampton Inn & Suites planned in Hartwick Seminary. Hartwick Fire Company #2 pointed out it lacks a ladder truck necessary if the fourstory building were to catch on fire. Attorney Les Sittler, representing neighboring hotels, said the building should be kept to three stories. More at

AllOTSEGO.com

www.

AllOTSEGO.com

►OUTAGES REPORTED in Morris after County 911 Director Rob O’Brien filed a complaint with the state Public Service Commission after “large pockets” of Frontier Communications’ landline telephone customers were without service, some for weeks. ► ROS DEVLIN, the son of Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr. has resigned from his correctional officer position, county Board Chair David Bliss said Monday, Jan. 7. ►OTSEGO’S CONGRESSMAN, Antonio Delgado, D-19, co-sponsored his first piece of legislation, H.R. 1, the “For the People” Act, aimed at “addressing the imbalance of corporate power to make government work for the people,” according to a press release.

Hero May Not Have Been Target, Chief Concluding Erika and Michael Heller, right, hold close two of their four boys who John Heller – her brotherin-law; his brother – rescued from an arson last Saturday, losing his own life. To their right is Amber Roe, John’s fiancé. In the foreground, Heller’s pallbearers console each other after placing the casket in the hearse after Jan. 4 funeral in Foothills’ Atrium.

Suspect’s Brother Person Of Interest, Can’t Be Located By LIBBY CUDMORE ONEONTA

ith one arrest, 100 leads and a “person of interest” who can’t be found, Oneonta Police are still piecing together what happened during the blaze Terrence that killed a man Truitt hailed as a “hero” on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 5 Walling Ave. “We’re not sure what (Terrence) Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal Please See ARSON, A6

FUNDRAISING DRIVE OVER $1 MILLION

Site Bought For New Shelter INDEX

ust six weeks old, the $2 million “Shelter Us” fund drive passed the halfway mark in recent days, giving the Susquehanna SPCA confidence to buy land for its new headquarters. The SPCA has closed the deal on two acres of land at 5088-5082 Route 28, CPA Judith Brown’s Please See SPCA, A7

SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes, with pup Zero and board Chair Gaylord Dillingham, look over Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal new site.

Biggest Ambulance Company Acquires Locally Based CMT By JIM KEVLIN COOPERSTOWN

wners Margaret McGown and Mark Zeek announced the sale of Cooperstown Medical Transport to AMR (American Medical Response), which employs 28,000 emergency medical

personnel in 40 states and Washington, D.C. An asset-purchase agreement was signed Tuesday, Jan. 8, and the sale is expected to be complete by the end of March, pending final apPlease See CMT, A6

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

THURSDAY, january 10, 2019

A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL

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Baby Boy From Walton First 2019 Bassett Birth

Austin James Robinson is the first baby born in 2019 at the Bassett Birthing Center in Cooperstown. Austin arrived at 3:01 a.m. New Year’s Day to his mother and father, Destiny Grant and Adam Robinson of Walton, Austin weighs Ian Austin/The Freeman’s Journal 6 lbs.,13 oz,, and is Brewery Ommegang employee Tim Smith, Cooperstown, heaves some 19¾ inches long. Desholiday boughs from Liz Callahan onto the bonfire at the annual Snack tiny noted that Austin’s Crackle Hops! event at Ommegang on Saturday, Jan. 5. Area residents birthday is exactly 30 were invited to come dispose of their Christmas trees on the bonfire and days before her own enjoy a glass of beer on the house. birthday. 2018 was another record setting Santa’s Cottage, year with 1,081 babies removed from born at Bassett. Cooperstown’s SALL ON LIST: Joseph Pioneer Park on Sell, a Sophomore Fashion Saturday, sits a Design major from Hartwick bit forlornly at the village DPW named to the Fall 2018 on Linden Avenue Dean’s List at Bob Jones today, amidst University. discarded Christmas trees, (which residents may drop on the curb through the end of the month for municipal pickup). Fear not, the holiday season is only 11 months Buying Antiques, away, and estAtes, ArtifActs Santa’s Cottage will be safely Buzz Hesse stored until then. Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal

4 On Hudson Valley CC Dean’s List COOPERSTOWN

enjamin Worman, Milford, was one of four local Hudson Valley Community College students named to the Fall 2018 President’s List. Also on the list were: • Annika DeVries of Burlington Flats who is study-

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areas of built-up ice that can accumulate around your roof line, causing leaks when the backed-up snow behind them begins to melt.

4 Make sure your driveway is maintained.

Keep your driveway cleared of snow and branches so that the fuel oil truck, deliveries, emergency vehicles and visitors have access to your home.

4 Knock heavy snow from tree branches. 4 Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

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THURSDAY-FRIDAY, january 10-11, 2019

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

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OTseGO COUNTY’s DAiLY NeWsPAPer oNLiNe ALL the LocAL NewS… PLuS ALL the feAtureS you exPect iN A dAiLy NewSPAPer world & National News • editorials, columns & Letters to the editor crosswords • daily & Sunday comics • horoscopes • dear Abby including all content of hometown oneonta & the freeman’s Journal

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Perspectives

THURSDAY, january 10, 2019

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL EDITORIAL

LEVELS RISING ON RESERVOIR OF GOOD WILL

Bliss Achieves Key Goal: Collegiality On County Board

he amiable Dave Bliss, who is enEach month there’s a consent agenda tering his second year as chairman that lumps together a few dozen routine of the Otsego County Board of resolutions so they can be taken care of Representatives, patently has achieved in one vote – a huge time saver in a his first goal: A “change of culture” usually lengthy meeting. toward a more amiable But any county rep can ask that any atmosphere. resolution be removed for individual “I believe we have debate, as Ed Frazier, R-Unadilla, a working relationsensibly did in this case on the “Climate ship with department Smart Communities Pledge,” which heads and other board NYSERDA is encouraging local members,” the former Dave Bliss retakes the governments to adopt. rostrum after being 24-year Middlefield town supervisor, Meg Kennedy, C-Mount Vision, reelected chair of the asked the question on everyone’s mind, a Republican, said in an interview county Board of Rep- “Does it close the door on other possible assessing his first year at the helm, resentatives after his developments that might be considered and looking ahead to the second. “Democrats and Republicans are evenly Jan. 2 reelection. ‘Climate UN-smart’?” split – we need to work together.” Well, guess what? In a county where • battle lines are firming up over natural gas, an amiA case in point surfaced at the county board’s able and informative discussion followed. organizational meeting on Jan. 2, where Bliss Michele Farwell, D-Morris, who was drawn into was reelected by a 12-2 vote. Please See EDITORIAL, A5

The Freeman’s Journal

Tensions rise as former county board chair Kathy Clark, R-Otego, seated at left, speaks against reappointing the Republican elections commissioner for another term. Standing is Administration Committee chair Meg Kennedy.

LETTERS

New Hotel: When Is Too Much Too Much?

To the Editor: In regards to the proposed 101 room hotel in Hartwick, I’d like to thank Bob Holt, career hospitality professional, for his willingness to “tell it like it is” regarding the true state of the hospitality business here in the Cooperstown area. While we at the Landmark Hotel in Cooperstown always welcome new competition, I’d like to introduce the following numbers into the public discussion, hoping it broadens perspective. 1) 36,865 - 101 additional rooms sounds innocuous enough, but the number that should be focused on is 36,865; (101 rooms x 365 days). That is the number of new “room nights” (a critical metric in the hospitality business) that will be introduced into a local visitation rate that is not growing: 36,865 room nights. 2) 18,423 - At an average stay of two nights, that’s the number of additional room-booking visitors needed to absorb the additional

ake no mistake about it, this new hotel in Hartwick will ABSOLUTELY market itself as a Cooperstown hotel, thereby leveraging the marketing strength of the Cooperstown quaintness brand, even as it helps (unwittingly, perhaps) to destroy it.

FRED SCHNEIDER Landmark Hotel, Cooperstown

inventory. Where will they come from when they haven’t come already? Like most hotels, (mine included), this proposed hotel is not an attraction bringing additional people to the area. 3) Zero - That is the anecdotal increase in occupancy that a number of B&Bs/inns/hotels achieved in the

area this year, without, yet, the impact of this new hotel. Some have told me personally they were down over 25 percent year over year. True, there may be any number of reasons for this, but the explosion of hotel rooms in the area (Oneonta included) is clearly having an impact. 4) Negative 7 percent - That is the rate growth (i.e. price increase, a key to paying employees a livable wage) the Landmark (which we think is a modestly successful business) has achieved over the past six years in the “off” season. That’s right; our 2018 winter rates are 7 percent below where they were six years ago. This is despite huge investments in our facility and marketing, and it’s because rate is always the product of demand and demand is always the quotient of room-night inventory divided by visitor count. Add inventory without additional visitors and rates go down. Rates go down, employees get laid off. Please See SCHNEIDER, B5

Assemblyman Salka: I Will Work Tirelessly For You

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Cooperstown’s Newspaper

legislative session, I look forward to working with my fellow legislators, regardless of their political John Salka affiliation, to further the interests of our communities

To the Editor: As we start a new year, and new leadership for the 121st Assembly District, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all who supported us in this past election. And for those who did not, I hope to gain your trust through hard work, accountability and service. As we head into the 2019

For 211 Years

James C. Kevlin Editor & Publisher

Tara Barnwell

Advertising Director & General Manager

Libby Cudmore

Managing Editor

Amanda E. Willsey Business Manager

Larissa Ryan Office Manager/Circulation

Jennifer Hill • Patrick Wager Reporters

Ian Austin Photographer

Thom Rhodes Advertising Consultant

Kathleen Peters Graphics & Production

Judith Bartow Billing

Tom Heitz Consultant

IN MEMORIAM: Mary Joan Kevlin, Co-Publisher, 2006-17 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR Otsego County • Village of Milford • Town of Middlefield Cooperstown Central School District Subscriptions Rates: Otsego County, $48 a year. All other areas, $65 a year. First Class Subscription, $130 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.

and our great state. There are going to be issues that require debate and the advocacy that Upstate representatives will have to fight hard for. It is my firm promise that I will work tirelessly for the betterment of our towns, villages and cities, and I will always keep the interests of the citizens of the 121st as my main focus and concern. I would also like to thank

former Assemblyman Magee for his long-time dedication to our communities. As I have said during the campaign, I cannot do this alone. I will need the ideas and the energy of the constituents who have given me the honor to serve, and I will always be there for them. After all, I work for you. Respectfully Yours, JOHN SALKA Assemblyman-elect, 121st Assembly District

OPEN LETTER TO COMMUNITY

Does Society Of Friends Offer Solutions To Angst That Divides Our Nation?

or those who know we are, or, at least, would one, or all, of us, “uto- like to be. pian” isn’t the first The publication outlines, word that would come to in the main, goals of peace, mind. Practical, justice, economic fact-based, anasharing and planet lytical – those restoration as would be better worthy long-range adjectives to efforts for us all. describe us. “The World We Yet we can’t Seek” is a non-parhelp but rectisan ecumenical ognize, locally statement of legand nationally, islative policy and the decrease of the Quakers have civility, neighrecently recomborliness and mended practical cooperativeness “The World We steps which local in our national Seek” offers the advocacy groups Quakers’ solution. conscience and can promote. Is it behavior, and overly optimistic? wonder if there’s a way for Perhaps. impractical? Maybe. citizens and our leadership to Ultimately that is in our take corrective actions. hands. Sometimes we need With that in mind, we’ve a reminder that our governall been reading “The World ment is us, “We the People.’’ We Seek,” a statement of For more information, legislative policy put out in reach out to one of us and 2013 by the Friends Comfind out how to get involved. mittee on National LegYou can call Emery C. islation (Quakers). It’s a Herman at 547-2146 for a statement of principle and loan copy of this booklet purpose, a path to a better or go to www.fcnl.org to way and, after these past few request your own copy. years, a necessary reminder EMERY HERMAN of how we can treat people JIM ATWELL and have our governments, DICK DeROSA from local to national, act in JEFF KATZ ways more reflective of who Cooperstown

LEGAL POT? NY Should Beware Of Pitfalls Editor’s Note: This appeared in YourAAA, the Jan./Feb. edition of the Automobile Association of America/ Northeast. Our state Legislature may legalize recreational marijuana as soon as this month.

he legalization of marijuana is gaining popularity within the U.S. A recent Gallup poll found that 66 percent of Americans support marijuana legalization. More than half the states have legalized marijuana use to some extent. Of the six states in the AAA Northeast footprint, only Massachusetts has legalized the recreational use of marijuana. But there have been recent pushes to legalize it in both New York and New Jersey. Traffic crashes increased by 6 percent in states that legalized recreational marijuana when compared to neighboring states, according to recent

Lovely – but looks are deceiving, some experts say.

studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute. AAA, which opposes the legalization of marijuana for recreational use due to traffic-safety concerns, has launched new initiatives aimed at combatting drugged driving. One program sponsors drug-recognition-expert courtroom training,

which helps sharpen the presentation skills of experts and prosecutors to strengthen their courtroom arguments related to impaired-driving cases. “Drug recognition experts are facing even greater challenges when it comes to drugged driving,” said Mary Maguire, director of public & legislative affairs for AAA Northeast. “And AAA Northeast is committed to helping law enforcement meet those challenges.” The other program focuses on educating teenage drivers. “More citations are given to teen drivers for drugs than alcohol,” said Diana Imondi, traffic safety programs manager for AAA Northeast. Imondi helped develop a new curriculum covering driving and marijuana use. It will be taught in Rhode Island high school health classes this year before being rolled out to other nearby states.

AllOTSEGO.com • MORE LETTERS, A5, A6

E-MAIL LETTERS TO EDITOR TO info@

THURSDAY, january 10, 2019

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5

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

200 YEARS AGO

Amidst the numerous and interesting objects which have experienced the benevolence of individuals, and the countenance of the government, it is pleasing to observe that the interests of the Dumb and the Insane have not been overlooked – two unfortunate descriptions of our fellow creatures, shut out from the blessings of social communion, and entitled to our deepest sympathy. The liberal grant of $10,000 a year to the Governors of the New York Hospital has enabled them to erect a most spacious and accommodating asylum for lunatics, about seven miles from the city, and on the island of New York – and the application of the fund has been so judiciously directed by its benevolent administrators, that the contemplated edifices and accommodations will be completed during the next season, and without the existence of any debt after the expiration of 15 years. (Excerpt from Governor DeWitt Clinton’s Annual Message to the Legislature) January 11, 1819

100 YEARS AGO

Musical Treat – There will be a vocal and instrumental concert in Village Hall, Wednesday evening, January 17, by Master Charles Mehan, the phenomenal boy soprano soloist of the Church of the Heavenly Rest, Fifth Avenue, New York, and John Francis Gilder, the popular pianist, assisted by a double quartette of singers in glees and madrigals. Admission 35 cents. Reserved seats 50 cents. On sale at Russell’s bookstore. The influenza claimed a good many victims on this corporation last week, but there were no fatal cases. With the favorable change in the weather which occurred on Sunday, it is hoped there will be less sickness. The sidewalk near Bundy’s store was left in a condition which occasionally causes someone to stumble and fall. It should be fixed. We saw an old gentleman measure his length there Tuesday evening. January 11, 1894

75 YEARS AGO

175 YEARS AGO

A five-year-old cow – Flavel Day, Esq., of Burlington Flats slaughtered a cow a few days since, of the common breed, which weighed 1,132 pounds – Quarters, 889 pounds, clear rough tallow, 159 pounds, hide 84 pounds. For the Ladies – The Philadelphia Times says: “We notice that white bonnets are quite the fashion in this city for the present season. They are made small, too, and sit back upon the head, exposing the features, and giving the face a saucy piquant air, that is sufficiently pretty. Neat, plain trimmings, too, are in vogue, with two or three pinkcolored flowers inside, a small wreath without. Altogether we think the fashion notable and tasty.” January 8, 1844

150 YEARS AGO

Excerpts from Elizabeth Cady Stanton on the “Management of Babies” – If babies are regularly fed, bathed and comfortably dressed, and in a pure atmosphere, they will be quiet and healthy. The ignorance of women on these subjects is truly lamentable. We have seen children a year old that had never tasted water, when they

125 YEARS AGO

January 8, 1919 should have it half a dozen times every day from the hour of their birth. We have found fathers who worked hard all day complain bitterly of being disturbed at night by crying children, hence the common use of Mrs. Winslow’s soothing syrup, which only tends to increase the irritable condition of the nervous system, and permanently weaken the brain. Young mothers no doubt imagine that this Mrs. Winslow is some experienced humane old lady, who loves little children, knows just how to soothe them to sleep and pilot them through all the pitfalls of infancy. In fact, this abominable syrup is compounded by some ignorant man in whiskers, broadcloth and boots who lives and fattens on his ill-gotten gains, while babies are sent by the hundreds to untimely graves or made lunatics and idiots for life. January 8, 1869

The Cooperstown Academy has opened in its new quarters on Beaver Street in the premises formerly occupied by the Susan Fenimore Cooper Foundation and the St. Christina School. The Academy acquired the property last autumn. Since that time the interior of the large building has been placed in good condition for occupancy by the boys. Rough grading has been completed at the rear of the building for a new athletic field large enough for a full-sized football gridiron, baseball diamonds, etc. The school starts in its new home with a total student body of thirty-one. Thus, the school, which had reached the capacity of its buildings on Elm and Pioneer streets, now has space to allow expansion to at least seventy boys. Headmaster and Mrs. Herbert E. Pickett have been working very hard under the handicap of wartime to accomplish the difficult task of moving and opening in the new building. January 12, 1944

50 YEARS AGO

Local – Miss Martha Calbimonte of La Paz, Bolivia, who is spending the current academic year in Cooperstown as a Rotary International Exchange student, was the speaker at the regular meeting of the Rotary Club held Tuesday at the Hotel Otesaga.

She spoke about her native country and showed colored slides of views taken there by her father. Robert W. O’Brien, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. O’Brien of Cooperstown and Timothy Weir of Oaksville, left January 2 for the United States Marine Corps. They are both stationed at Parris Island, South Carolina. January 8, 1969

25 YEARS AGO

The Emerald Knights of Hamilton High School narrowly defeated the CCS Redskins, 56-55, in a Saturday afternoon outing at Bursey Gym before an overflow crowd estimated to number between 1,000 and 1,500 fans. A closed-circuit television feed with play-by-play commentary was provided courtesy of the National Baseball Hall of Fame staff. The two stars, Adonal Foyle, 6’10” senior center for Hamilton and Seth Schaeffer, 6’3” senior guard-forward for Cooperstown both showed the ability and leadership that have marked them each as superior talents at their respective positions. Both Foyle and Schaeffer have announced plans to attend Colgate University and play basketball there following graduation from high school. Schaeffer is expected to become the all-time leading scorer in CCS boys’ basketball history in his next start. Schaeffer who has looked at 20 schools that offer Division I college basketball said, “I’ve been thinking about Colgate since last year and it really is my first choice.” January 11, 1994

10 YEARS AGO

Almost 43,000 acres are already under lease for natural gas drilling in Otsego County, according to a map completed in recent days by the Otsego County Conservation Association. In all, 638 leases are held by 300 property owners according to Bennett Sandler of Fly Creek, who prepared the map with data collected from county property-tax records by OCCA President Martha Clarvoe. Most surprising, said Sandler, a county resident since 1998, is that 86 percent of the landowners are local people. “So, this is not outsiders leasing their land,” he said. “This is county residents who are doing it.” January 9, 2009

Golly, Goodbye To All That Was 2018 – And Welcome To Whatever

To the Editor: 2018 – Farewell. Actually, farewell is an optimistic term, but there is a better expression: good riddance. Complaints about the past 12 months … Unregulated patent medicine ads supposedly improving mental function; as well, pills that do miraculous cures and improvements (making “it” larger, disposing of wrinkles, growing hair). Since 1906, the government supposedly regulates such food and drug fraud. The agency is now narcotized by lobbyists

and cash gifts. Cars advertised on TV speeding recklessly or traveling across rocky wastes nobody with any sense would travel. Owning fourwheel-drive vehicles supposedly makes drivers immune to recklessness. Ice storms in the South and border states result in accidents caused by speed in bad road conditions. Cause? Never covered. Money in campaigns – the U.S. did not invent “money talks,” but was the first to make it a legal doctrine. Cash is supposedly a form LETTERS

of “free speech” guaranteed by the ill-quoted U.S. Constitution. If paper could weep, that document would flow with resentment about its ill-use. As for talking money, it’s amusing to put Lincoln, Jackson, Hamilton, and, if one temporarily has him, Franklin propped on the nightstand for evening conferences. Lincoln is the best of the lot with both wit and brevity, and lots of people carry five bucks. Washington is also a good candidate – but not very humorous. It’s also very difficult to find a crisp and

EDITORIAL: The Bliss Of Congeniality EDITORIAL/From A1 politics by the anti-fracking fight, said, “The economicdevelopment component is going to be central; it has to be.” Danny Lapin, D-Oneonta, pointed out the pledge could open the way to a $250,000 grant to allow the county to plan for “extreme weather” eventualities that may result from climate change. As OCCA circuit rider, you might expect he likes the climate pledge. But he said his piece, and didn’t push it. Keith McCarty, who chairs the Solid Waste & Environmental Concerns Committee, said he doesn’t necessarily favor the pledge, but he didn’t quash it in committee: He wanted it to be considered by the full board. Maybe the county board can approve parts of the pledge that it agrees with and still open the door to grants? Andrew Stammel, DOneonta, did a quick Google and found NYSERDA is firm that the 10 points in the pledge be passed verbatim. Still, county Planning Director Karen Sullivan offered to explore what wiggle room might be available and report back at the February meeting.

• That kind of give-and-take would have been impossible during the 2013-17 period, when the then-chair was determined to impose her will and everything was a fight. As if a reminder, that surfaced twice during the reorganizational meeting. First, with Kathy Clark, R-Otego, Bliss’ predecessor, and Frazier, her former vice chair, providing the two nay votes in Bliss’ 12-2 reelection. Would it have been more savvy, seeing where things were going, to just go along? Afterwards, a political observer opined that, since Bliss had negotiated a resolution to the standoff over Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr.’s son, Roz, and Devlin had then defeated Clark’s husband Bob Fernandez in the sheriff’s race, there were still some open sores. Second, Clark then removed from the consent agenda and challenged the reappointment of Lori Lehenbauer as Republican elections commissioner. The county rep described three instances when she didn’t feel Lehenbauer had provided the Fernandez campaign with

accurate information. In one case, she was assured a county Elections Board decision made the Friday before Labor Day could be challenged the following Tuesday, only to learn the three-day challenge period had expired over the holiday weekend. Clark then provided the nay vote in the 13-1 decision to reappoint Lehenbauer. Self-immolation. • The good news is: That’s yesterday’s news. Bliss is often heard to ask, “Do I want to die on that hill?” Indeed, winning everything isn’t everything. Some fights are, and a more sensible approach – Bliss’s – is to build good will, so when those fights worth fighting come along there’s sufficient mutual confidence that different sides can compromise. David Bliss is allowing a reservoir of good will to fill, and that promises good decisions that are already surfacing – in the astonishing professionalizing of department head salaries, for one – will become a welcome feature of Otsego County government.

clean dollar bill to prop against a bedside lamp. Following the news, but where is it? The most important piece of recent legislation was the tax give-away. The largest corporations don’t pay federal taxes. Paradoxically, they now pay even less? How do you subtract from 0? Has there been a single series of “news” about the tax frauds? No. Instead, there can’t be enough time and space devoted to national leaders during their uncivil toilettraining accidents. Any news about the stench from the national debt?

Flying national corpses about the country before (at last) burials – We haven’t yet elected Nero as president, but the final send-offs are grotesque. How about Evita Peron as a model? No. This is a republic supposedly devoted to understatement! So: Where’s the first presidential cremation, no coffin, and a ceremony lasting a single hour without vocalists singing off-key? ROBERT MOYNIHAN Cooperstown

Renewables Not Ready To Replace Gas

hose who oppose using fossil fuels to provide the bulk of our energy needs without offering viable alternatives are depriving this and future generations of job opportunities. When our country attempts to keep our illegal immigrants seeking to enter our country illegally in pursuit of jobs, Nancy Pelosi and those aligned with her call it “immoral”. What should we call doing that to our own citizens? When those opposed to fossil fuels argue against them, they point to their environmental impacts, especially their contribution to MIKE “climate change” and ZAGATA laud renewables as being “pure” when it comes to the environment. Is that really the case? When it was discovered that wind turbines were killing birds, that information was “swept under the rug” by the regulatory agencies and media. Golden and bald eagles are protected under the “Golden and Bald Eagle Protection Act” and the “Migratory Bird Treaty Act.” It is illegal to kill, harm, harass or pluck a feather from one. However, in a move to subsidize the wind power industry by removing a regulatory hurdle, the Obama Administration granted the wind-power industry an exemption whereby each wind power company could kill up to 4,200 eagles over a 30-year period (Google “Obama

Save the Eagles International is circulating this photo of one of those grand birds felled by turbine

Allows Wind Turbines to Legally Kill Eagles”). The environmental groups didn’t like it, but they were caught in a conundrum – eagles or wind power – and so they remained quiet. That exemption only explains away the eagles, but doesn’t address the tens of thousands of song birds that are annually struck and killed by a turbine or blade. Is wind power “pure”? • What about solar energy? According to an application filed by New York City, it takes about 40 acres of solar panels to provide the electricity for 1,250 households. Thus, if you were to provide New York’s 29 million residents with solar power via solar farms, it would take over 500,000 acres under glass. Those acres would no longer be forests, brush or pastures with the ability to sequester carbon. That being the case, one must ask if there would be a net gain or loss with regards to reducing the carbon Please See ZAGATA, A6

THURSDAY-Friday, january 10-11, 2019

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Emergency Services Company Buys Cooperstown Medical Transport CMT/From A1 proval by the Susquehanna Regional EMS Council, covering Chenango County, and the Adirondack/Appalachian EMS council, which covers Otsego and Delaware counties. In a press release, AMR said it will transition employees and customers to the new entity between now and then. “Mark and I have lived the American Dream,” said McGown in announcing the sale of the three-county enterprise that began as one ambulance the couple bought for $900 in 1980 from Jim Dow, the Cooperstown funeral director. When the sale occurred, CMT, as it’s generally known, was administering the operation of 13

ambulances (down from a peak of 17) from the main four-bay complex in Davenport, where administration and maintenance is also based. CMT also has stations in Delhi, Bainbridge and Norwich, and a post (a single-bay garage) that is manned daily in Stamford. HOMETOWN ONEONTA & The Freeman’s Journal From a staff of Margaret McGown and Mark Zeek built two – at first, the Cooperstown Medical Transport up from couple staffed the a single vehicle in over 38 years. operation themIn 1980, the first year, CMT selves – CMT as of today emmade 110 calls; in 2018, that had ployed 95 EMTs and other emrisen to 8,241 calls. ployees.

AMR was founded in 1992 when several regional ambulance providers consolidated into a single company, prompted by changes in health-care reimbursement, new technology and the managed-care plans, all requiring a larger provider network, according to the its website. In 1997, it merged with Med Trans, creating the largest ambulance service provider in the U.S. The CMT owners said the decision to sell wasn’t made overnight; AMR first expressed interest in acquiring the local company a decade ago. McGown was working as a social worker at Bassett when she met Zeek, a New Jersey native who was doing alternative service at Bassett during the Vietnam War.

LETTERS/NATURAL GAS DEBATE

Microgrid Idea Wrong Solution To Oneonta Challenges To the Editor: Albert Colone’s letter in your Dec. 20-21 editions suggested a “municipal microgrid” might be something the different factions in the energy discussion could all agree on. The letter touched on technical matters that deserve discussion. We need to understand that a “microgrid” refers to a local electric grid that can be isolated and continue to function for an extended period even when the larger grid goes down. Of course, the main grid is very reliable so, in fact, we don’t need a microgrid. Colone writes that solar panels and wind turbines could provide electricity and heat for a complex at the railyards with gas used only as back up. First, because of intermittency of solar and wind power, any microgrid that must support several buildings or run in “island mode” (off the main grid) for an extended period must primarily rely on hydropower or gas. Second, solar and wind produce electricity, not heat. Generating heat from electricity – like your toaster does - has a less-than-even coefficient of

performance (COP), meaning for every 10 kW of electricity you pay for, you might only get 8 kW worth of toast. We see now that no wind-and-solar microgrid in the railyards could realistically provide heat and electricity for more than a good-sized dog kennel, and it would need significant battery backup even for that. Commercial “combined heat and power” (CHP) systems - including microgrid applications - are driven by gas turbines. A 25mW CHP “microgrid” could power a chunk of downtown Oneonta. It would require 6 million cubic feet of gas - that’s 15 CNG “bomb trucks” - daily to keep it running. But that might not be the worst part. If you only needed heat, you’d still have to run the turbines and generate electricity. If you didn’t need heat, you’d have to dump that part of your system’s energy even though you were paying for it. Yet, even that might not be the worst part. This plan would mean that we postpone making necessary changes to our energy systems to cut

emissions and stem global warming. Who would be against a CHP microgrid? I’ve got my hand up. There are sensible solutions, though. Wind and solar provide electricity that gets “net metered,” meaning we get paid back for any energy we push onto the grid beyond our needs. We’d still pull juice from the main grid, but we’d sometimes be pushing electricity back onto it. You could use the Susquehanna River or even municipal water or sewage systems for geothermal energy to heat or cool downtown businesses. That would be renewable energy: local, reliable, inexpensive. Geothermal heat typically has a coefficient of performance of 5, meaning for 1 unit of electricity you get 5 units of heat. It would not be a microgrid, but it would be smart. The fact is, we don’t need a microgrid. But we do need to understand basic energy concepts and start using our heads to power our region into a sustainable future. DENNIS HIGGINS Otego

Natural Gas Part Of The Solution, Not Problem – Look At Germany

What became CMT had its roots at Bassett Hospital, which had an ambulance staffed by interns in the 1960s, the owners recounted in an interview today. By the end of the decade, the Cooperstown Volunteer Fire Department assumed operation of the ambulance and began training its own EMTs. However, Bassett still had transportation needs, and bought a 1970 Ford van to use as what was termed termed a “medical coach.” Drivers were members of the maintenance staff, who would be called upon to drive patients back and forth to The Meadows, and to take patients home. When Dow agreed to take over the operation, the hospital sold him the van for $1.

Oneonta On Roller-Coaster, With Packed Funeral, Arrest, More Question On Fatal Fire ARSON/From A1 Truitt was trying to do,” said Police Chief Doug Brenner said of the suspect facing a charge of arson, first degree. “It looks like Heller was in the wrong place at the wrong time.” Truitt, 34, is now accused of setting a fire on the second-floor that killed former Oneonta firefighter John Heller, 38, in his third-floor apartment. Truitt was arrested and charged with arson, first degree, Monday, Dec. 31, and appeared in City Court for a felony hearing on Friday, Jan. 4. “We had information that didn’t line up John Heller with what (Truitt) had first told me,” said Oneonta Police Detective Sgt. Branden Collison. “He kept changing his stories.” But police are seeking the whereabouts of his brother, Gabriel Truitt, whom they are calling him a “person of interest,” but providing no further explanation. Though initially interviewed at the start of the case, Brenner said he has not been seen or heard from since. “We’re trying to figure out to what extent Gabriel is involved,” he said. Investigators don’t believe that Heller was the target of the fatal fire, and are still trying to understand the relationship between Gabriel, Terrence and a woman named Heather Engler, who lived in the apartment below Heller, where investigators believe the fire was set.

►“My brother might be in the house”

During the felony hearing on Friday, Jan. 4, Michael Syron, a taxi driver, told City Judge Lucy Bernier that Truitt flagged him down at 4 a.m. the morning of the fire in the Friendly’s parking lot, next to 5 Walling. “My brother might be in the house,” Syron said Truitt told nation in the world that has with lignite (dirty coal) two facilities are in the early To the Editor: him. But the witness said he smelled smoke on Truitt, and thirds of that coal. phase of planning. Gas will that he later notice the armrest on the passenger side of his Two reports and a confer- a CHANCE of meeting the Accords’ stated goals. No Germany has problems replace coal, just as it did in car was “sooty.” ence warning that climate country equals our record – in the summer, when they the United States. And, just is warming due to human Truitt told detectives that he went to to the Speedway mart in tonnage or percentage of have too much renewable as in the United States, CO2 next to Main Street Baptist Church, where he borrowed a activity, i.e., greenhouse emissions reduced. Frackelectricity, they have to PAY will be reduced. gases (GHG). This warmtaxi driver’s cell phone to call firefighters, then went back to Implications for Otsego neighboring countries to ing will “disrupt many areas ing has made this possible. the house but found it “too smoky” to enter. Therefore, a modest protake their excess in order to County? While green intenof life,” affecting trade and But at the scene that night, Collison said “there was not a posal: To lower the world’s maintain grid stability. In tions are noble, what good precipitating conflicts. lot of smoke” at the entrance; the smoke was mostly on the carbonization in the least the winter. when there is not are they if they don’t work? second and third floors. Let’s assume for the moproblematic manner, priorienough renewable output, Economics count. France, ment that the data warrants tize the exploration, extracthey have to stoke up the anyone? Macron raised the ► “What most don’t know is she’s a victim of the conclusion – man-made tion, transport, sale and use coal plants in spite of coal’s price of gasoline 25 cents GHGs are the cause of domestic violence.” of natural gas. emissions problems. to save the planet. The global warming. How do Germany, the world’s These inefficiencies crepeople erupted. Cost/benwe solve this problem? Investigators found a burned spray can in a pile of debris ate a dilemma. In spite of fourth-largest economy and efit matters. Ask Germany. What works? near Apartment C, where Engler lived. Additionally, the botparagon of green virtue, ofpotential, there’s no current Germans haven’t erupted For smooth transitions tom of her door was blocked with a yet-unidentified material. fers a case study. In the year means of storing excess but Merkle will make deals to a less carbon-intensive Brenner believes that Engler was known to both brothers, 2000, Germany embarked renewable electricity. Back- with Putin to keep the lights future, the best path is the and Engler’s stepmother, Rochelle Denise Smith-Engler, on as massive transition up coal (coal plants must be on, the houses warm, and a use of natural gas – the posted on Facebook that her stepdaughter was a victim of continually running) profew euros in the ratepayers’ bridge fuel. Two decades of away from fossil fuels to domestic violence. renewables. The goal was duces unacceptable emispocket. data from the U.S. Energy “As by now most are aware my stepdaughter Heather to derive 80 percent of its sions that have remained The road to carbon neuInformation Agency (EIA) Marie Engler was a victim of the Walling Street fire in energy from renewables by stubbornly constant over the trality is a long one. Until is testimony to its efficacy. Oneonta,” she wrote on Jan. 2. “What most don’t know is 2050, thus the slogan “80 by years. wind and solar storage probAccording to the EIA, she’s a victim of domestic violence.” 50.” The goal remains “80 by lems are solved, renewables the substitution of gas for In initial interviews with Collison, Truitt said he “never With escalating costs in 50.” The clock is ticking. won’t work. Until then, gas coal in power plants has saw Heather,” but in a later interview said he was visiting Nothing’s happening. Who infrastructure, subsidies, is the go-to element in the lowered CO2 in the USA to her. you gonna call? process. levels not seen since the late and grid maintenance, the Then, at the station on Dec. 31, Truitt said “he wasn’t Gas producers! Gas has Otsego County can put its 1980s. This happened while price of retail electricity going to beat around the bush” about being on the second skyrocketed; Germans pay half the CO2 and almost head in the sand and form population and GDP grew floor, said Collison. the American equivalent of none of the oxides, volatile energy committees that a over the same period. Brenner classified Engler as an “acquaintance” of Gabriel 37 cents per kilowatt hour. organic compounds (VOCs,) ignore the most reliable, afIn cities, substitution of Truitt, but did not specify the details of the relationship. Here in the USA, we averand particulate contained in fordable, scaleable source of gas for oil in buildings has age about 10 cents. coal. With gas, Germany energy (as used in Oneonta, eliminated most sulfur di►“You spent your last day on Earth saving What do the Germans get has a chance of breaking the here and now) or take oxide (SO2), nitrous oxides others” for their money? In spite of present system’s stalemate. advantage of natural gas (NOX), and particulates, The 900-mile Nord 2 massive outlays, solar and produced only a few miles enabling them to meet EPA While Truitt’s felony hearing was underway in the city’s wind only produce about 25 Pipeline (gas from Russia) is south in Pennsylvania. standards. Public Safety Building at Main and South Market, 350 in the planning stage. Dow The advantage is – GAS According to Bloomberg, percent of German electricfriends, family, fellow firefighters – from East Meredith, Chemical will partner with WORKS! Here and now! regardless of our withdrawal ity. Fossil fuels generate Germany to build an LNG double that (53 percent,) DICK DOWNEY Franklin and Worcester, as well as Oneonta – and commufrom the Paris Accords, the facility. Two more LNG primarily coal (35 percent,) Otego nity members gathered at Foothills to say goodbye to Heller. United States is the ONLY “You spent your last day on Earth saving others,” his sister-in-law, Erika Heller, declared from the podium. “We are so proud.” His father, John, told of a vision he had shortly after his son’s death. In it, he said, he saw a four-piece jigsaw puzzle. pollution abatement equipment, bans that a healthy economy and a healthy ZAGATA/From A5 John was in the lower left piece; his dad in the lower right, coal, China will buy and burn it environment are not mutually excluthat people say is contributing to cliand both of them in the top two pieces. sive – rather they are inextricably mate change. In addition to the carbon without those sophisticated emissions The lower left piece started to expand, he explained, and controls and there will be a net overall intertwined. issue, solar farms in California appear as it got bigger and bigger and to fill up with images of famloss in the planet’s air quality. We can have both, but without one to be contributing to the songbird ily and friends, John said to his father, “I’m sorry, I have to Advocating against natural gas of the two we may not have the other. mortality go. And look at what you still have.” without offering up a viable alterThink about that and what it means not You see, there is no free lunch and “His last act was passing those kids out the window,” said native, for example, isn’t merely a to you, but to your community. no form of energy yet discovered and Brenner. “Then he collapsed.” religious experience where the outharnessed is “pure.” For you, me and Judge Bernier decided Monday that there was enough Mike Zagata, a DEC commissioner the 2017 estimated 7.53 billion people come is between you and your God. in the Pataki Administration and envi- evidence to send the case to the Otsego County Grand Jury, who inhabit planet earth to exist, there The outcome may affect the lives of this generation and of generations yet ronmental executive with Fortune 500 and District Attorney John Muehl said he plans to convene will be pollution. unborn. It is important to remember companies, lives in West Davenport. the grand jury by the end of this month. If the U.S., with its sophisticated

ZAGATA: Only Balanced Energy Evolution Will Work

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, january 10-11, 2019

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

AllOTSEGO.com Relaunched As Otsego County’s Daily Newspaper/ONLINE ALLOTSEGO/From A1 with the goal of giving readers everything you expect in a local newspaper, up to the minute and at your fingertips. Effective at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, you can access all the breaking local news you now find on www.AllOTSEGO.com, plus world and national news, and such features as a daily crossword, comics (including color comics on Sundays), horoscope and Dear Abby. Plus, for the first time, you will find all the material that appears weekly in Hometown Oneonta & The Freeman’s Journal – hard news, features, editorials, columns, letters to the editor, obituaries, great photographs. The works. To enable this, and to keep adding features, Thinking of Remodeling? Think of Refinancing!

enhancing content – mostly, expanding service – we are offering readers a chance to participate in the future of local journalism: In Otsego County, certainly, but we also hope to establish a model that can be duplicated nationwide. For the next two weeks, Otsego County’s Daily Newspaper/ONLINE will be available to you at no cost. Then, for 99 cents a week – $12.87 billed quarterly via credit or debit cards – you will continue to have complete access to everything. In anticipation of your support, two additional reporters have joined our staff: Jennifer Hill in Oneonta and Patrick Wager in Cooperstown. Jennifer, who moved to Oneonta last July when her husband, Matt Murphy, accepted a faculty position at LGROUP@STNY.RR.COM www.leatherstockingmortgage.com 607-547-5007 (Office) 800-547-7948 (Toll Free)

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the community. A CCS grad, he also has two master’s, from St. John’s College’s “Great Books” program and in teaching from the College of St. Rose. Before and since moving back home from Washington, D.C., six years ago, he has held a range of positions, including as a web producer for WUTRTV in Utica. And he’s been a substitute teacher in several districts. He and wife Nancy Tarr have two The Freeman’s Journal children, Henry and Naomi. Putting final touches on Otsego County’s Daily Everyone at our newsNewspaper/ONLINE are, from left, Graphic Artist papers pulled together to Kathleen Peters, Managing Editor Libby Cudmore help make this happen, but and General Manager & Ad Director Tara Barnwell. special credit should go to Ivan Potocnik, the Father SUNY Oneonta, had written Georgetown, and in Public of AllOTSEGO.com as we on a wide range of issues for Administration from Penn. know it, birthed in 2015-16 online and independent pub- The couple has a daughter, while he did double-duty as lications in Shrevesport, La., Alexandra, a sophomore at office manager. He’s now where she had lived for six Oneonta High School. lead programmer analyst at years. She has two master’s, Patrick is a Cooperstown SUNY Polytechnic in Utica, in Russian Studies from native and well-known in

but took on the essential technical end of this undertaking in his spare time. Thanks, Ivan! Yes, we see a business opportunity in this venture. Yes, we see a chance to provide even more community service. But there’s more. You’ve seen the reports. Many parts of our United States are becoming “news deserts,” served by no local news outlets at all. Those of us here at The Freeman’s Journal, Hometown Oneonta and www.AllOTSEGO.com pledge to you today: That’s not going to happen here. But we need your help. Go to www.AllOTSEGO. com now and follow the link to subscribe to Otsego County’s Daily Newspaper/ ONLINE, and keep local journalism thriving into the future.

Hitting $1M Mark, SPCA Buys Land For Shelter

SPCA/From A1 former office and the building next door. “We’re finalizing everything with our construction management team. We are planning to break ground early in the spring,” said SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes. As for the money raised, “We had a goal of $1 million by the end of 2018,” said Haynes. “And we’ve raised ►TO DONATE, more than follow link at that.” SQSPCA.org That includes the $500,000 from the state, as well as pledges and gifts, one amounting to $300,000. “We’ve had some amazing people come forward,” she said. The $1 million raised doesn’t include the $59,945.92 raised through the Staffworks Save-a-Life campaign, which promised to match up to $10,000 in donations, as of Dec. 28. Though the final totals have not been added up yet, Haynes said that the total – as well as an additional $10,000 for the top performer – will be announced at a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 17. The site is across from Kevin’s Ford (formerly Smith-Cooperstown), owner Kevin Harris is on the campaign committee “and is already thinking of ways to partner with us,” said Haynes. “He’s excited about having us as neighbors.” There are two houses on the combined property, which may be suitable for offices and the SPCA’s thrift shop, but that hasn’t yet been determined, said board chair Gaylord Dillingham. The shelter itself would sit 100 feet back from the road. “We want to make sure we have parking and a safe place, away from the road, to walk dogs,” said Haynes. The property is also close to Centers Cooperstown, the former Focus, which Haynes sees as an additional draw. “We want to have trails that connect right

HCP Architects, Albany, prepared this preliminary drawing of the Shelter.

there so people can walk dogs over to the nursing home,” she said. One standout donor was Charlotte Kniskern, 95, a retired Bassett Hospital nurse, who passed away Oct. 17 and left money in her will. “She loved dogs, so when she died, she left a very generous amount of money towards the campaign,” Haynes said. “We’re working with her friends to try to name something in the new building for her.” The shelter’s new “meetand-greet” rooms may be named in her honor. “It’s one of the things we’re most excited about,” she said. “These are private rooms

where people can meet with dogs to see about taking them home.” And although the new building will allow the SPCA to double its cat intake, Haynes said the goal isn’t to have more animals on hand, but to help all those animals find their forever home. “The real goal is to increase health and safety and to make these animals visits shorter,” she said. “We can take in more animals, but we want these animals to find homes faster.” As the groundbreaking nears, Haynes said the final plans for the building are beginning to take shape.

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“The important elements, like the two entrances and the surgery suite, remain the same, but I’ve been visiting other shelters and seeing what they’re doing and that’s helped us figure out what we really want.” For instance, after seeing several shelters with indoor/outdoor dog kennels, she decided that they are no longer a viable option. “The people I spoke with said all of your resources – air conditioning and heat – go right out those windows,” she said. “And in the winter, the dogs end up going to the bathroom on this ice-covered area.”

MLS#118708 $279,900

THURSDAY-Friday, january 10-11, 2019

AllOTSEGO.homes

A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

MLS#117535 $155,000 Well maintained ranch on a quiet street. Close to Richfield Springs, Fly Creek, Cooperstown. Fenced backyard, full-size pool and deck. Call Rabiatu Braimah @ 475-202-9551 (cell)

PR NE IC W E! MLS#115766 $185,000 Sun Shelter Technology Private driveway on 65 acres in Delhi. 4-BR, 2-bath, 1,900 sq ft home w/front and rear decks. Don’t wait ! Call Ron Guichard @ 845-676-3600 (cell)

MLS#119115 $84,900 Borders Exeter state land on both sides! Country home on 14+ acres has 4 BRs, 2 baths. Stream, pond, oversized 3-car garage. Fixer-upper. Bring your tools. Call Kristi Ough @ 607-434-3026 (cell)

MLS#119206 $275,000 151 Acres of Splendor 4-BR farmhouse, barns, pastures, silo, panoramic views. Home is in good shape, don’t wait on this one. Call Sharon Teator @ 607-267-2681 (cell)

MLS#116387 $244,900 Income Property 4 separate parcels, 16 rental units generate income of $100,000+ annually and net income $36,000+. Owner may hold mortgage. Call George (Rod) Sluyter @ 315-520-6512 (cell)

MLS#118060 $110,000 Professional medical building on Main Street in Unadilla. Solid brick and cement block building w/newer 1-BR apt upstairs w/ laundry. Spacious 4roof, BR, 2separate bath house is close to I-88. Large Call Carol workshop/garage, Olsen @ 607-434-7436 backyard, small(cell) shed. Make your appointment today. Priced to go this week! Virtual Tour: www.RealEstateShows.com/708598

MLS#104145 $185,000 Views of Otsego Lake from Here! Walk to Main Street, Cooperstown and Bassett Hospital. Call Donna Schulz@ 607-267-6330 (cell)

MLS#117208 $379,900 Original Greek Revival home has been renovated w/o expense spared. Home is 1,800+ sq ft. On 39+ acres w/stream, bridge, views, towering pines, wildlife. Call Karin Wolfe @ 917-327-1017 (cell)

MLS#119313 $350,000 Prime commercial property in Cobleskill. Currently a car repair shop on the busiest section of Main Street. Shop built in 2016. Town water and sewer. Call Melissa Klein @ 518-705-9849 (cell)

MLS#117875 $299,000 Country Chalet 3BRs, 3½ baths, 4.7 acres w/indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room. Great location on a quiet road for weekend getaway or your home. Call Rodney Campbell @ 315-868-0148 (Cell)

MLS#114612 $449,500 Motivated Seller 171+ gorgeous private wooded and open Catskill Mtn acres. Ranch house built in 1986, 2 stocked ponds, 3-car garage, small barn. Call Stephen Colwell @ 607-435-6542 (cell)

MLS#115892 MLS#114624 $59,900 $105,000 1982 double-wide w/3 BRs, 2 baths and 1½ story, 2-car Country Charm 4-BR,system, 2-bathupdated home w/wide pine garage. New heating electrical, new and hardwood flooring. gas ceiling fireplace stoves,bath. large walls and ceiling in 1 BR.2New in master deck, 3-4 season front@porch. New metal Call Sharon P. Teator 607-267-2681 (cell)roof. Call Kathy Fistrowicz @ 607-267-2683 (cell)

PR NE IC W E!

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MLS#118994 $425,000 Magnificent Log Home on 90 Acres ! 4 BRs, 2 full baths, 2 kitchens, large pond, indoor pool! Great hunting and hiking! Near Cooperstown and Oneonta. Call David K. Mattice @ 607-434-1647 (cell)

lIs NE tIN W g!

MLS#117678 $289,000 Spectacular Country Offering 55 surveyed acres w/2,700 sq ft, built in 2003. 1-floor living, insulated finished walk-out basement. Landscaped grounds. Call Kathy Fistrowicz @ 607-267-2683 (cell)

4914 State Hwy 28 Cooperstown 607-547-5933 221 Main Street, Andes 845-676-3600

MLS#118020 $239,000 Ranch home w/custom kitchen, private setting. 2+ acres, close to Oneonta, Sidney. Call Carol Olsen @ 607-434-7436 (cell)

lIs NE tIN W g!

www.howardhanna.com

MLS#119339 $69,900 5.5 acres of land, pole barn w/new attached garage. Well, electric, septic system (leach field is in) included. Approved driveway. Trout creek. Call Tom Platt @ 607-435-2068 (cell)

MLS#118563 $339,000 Catskilll Mountain Paradise! Selling for less than 80% of building costs! 3 hours from GWB. 32 acres, 2+ miles of trails w/spectacular mountaintop view! Call or text Erin Moussa @ 607-435-1285 (cell)

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

99 Main Street, Oneonta office 607.441.7312 fax 607.432.7580

PRiCe ReDuCeD! This move-in ready home features updated kitchen w/island, spacious DR w/hardwood floors and pellet stove open to LR. Nicely sized BRs, master BR has vaulted ceiling, private balcony. 3-car garage w/electric, fenced yard, front porch, deck. This is a nice home w/lots to offer at an affordable price. View this inviting home! MLS#115327 $69,900

www.oneontarealty.com

Country Living! Only 2 miles to historic Oneonta and I-88 access. This 3-BR, 1½-bath home features wide open living space with lots of natural light. Newer kitchen and countertops. Master suite has large California-style closet, nice sized BR w/slider opening to sunroom boasting skylights, lots of windows w/privacy, wood-burning stove. Newly renovated full bath w/slate walls. 5 acres w/loads of perennials, shrubs,3 ponds and many great sitting areas to enjoy. 1-car garage under house and new storage building. MLS#119442 $148,500

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

HUBBELL’S REAL ESTATE 607-547-5740•607-547-6000 (fax) 157 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326

ASHLEY

E-Mail: info@hubbellsrealestate.com Web Site: www.hubbellsrealestate.com

29 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown · 607-547-4045 Patricia Bensen-Ashley – Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner

Cooperstown Comforts

Lake-View Ranch

(8491) 3-BR, 2-bath ranch w/Otsego Lake views. Formal DR, fireplace, large LR w/large windows, den w/cherry built-ins, hardwood floor, master BR. 2-car attached garage, deck. Otsego Lake rights w/dock. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Exclusive—$339,000

By a Murmuring Stream

(8546) Life is wonderful in this 3-BR Colonial. Charming Village residence provides hardwood flooring, den, eat-in kitchen, laundry room, hot-water heat. Garage, large front porch, garden shed, terraced yard. Close to schools and shops. This cheerful home has everything. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Exclusive—$169,000

(8287) Valley-view chalet on 13.80 acres w/2-3BRs, 2+ baths. Enhanced by natural woodwork, hardwood floors, loft, 2-story LR, eat-in kitchen, beamed and cathedral ceilings, partially finished basement, gas heat. Garage, deck, 2-story barn. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Exclusive—$269,000

John Mitchell Real Estate

INSURANCE MANY COMPANIES. MANY OPTIONS.

Let Us Take You Home

Bieritz insurance

216 Main Street, Cooperstown • 607-547-8551 • 607-547-1029 (fax) www.johnmitchellrealestate.com • info@johnmitchellrealestate.com

Dave LaDuke, Broker 607-435-2405

Laura Coleman 607-437-4881

Mike Winslow, Broker 607-435-0183

Madeline K. Woerner Jane McCoy 607-434-3697 607-232-3442

Kristen Bellois 607-282-2251

REALTY

CONNOR

Debbie Watkins-Parker 914-489-3523

Every week someone decides to sell a house. Every week someone decides to buy a house.

BE THERE WHEN THEY MAKE THE DECISION!

Your “HOMETOWN” Insurance Agency 209 Main Street, Cooperstown 607-547-2951 across from Bruce Hall 607-263-5170 in Morris www.bieritzinsurance.com

Celebrating our

Ben Novellano

th 27 YEAR! 1990-2017

Custom-built 4-BR Cape Cod features views of Susquehanna River valley. This hidden gem features first-floor BR suite with his/her closets and bath. Kitchen, DR, family room, mudroom/laundry, BR complete first floor. Upstairs are 2 BRs, full bath. Ample closet space. Natural woodwork. Attic has 2 accesses. Full basement has potential for finishing. Electric thermal heat storage system, pellet boiler in basement. Oversized windows let in natural light. Deck, 2- year-old metal roof has 10-year transferrable warranty. 1 acre w/privacy, plus easy access to a main road. Milford School. Offered Exclusively by Ashley-Connor Realty NOW $230,000 Visit us on the Web at www.ashleyconnorrealty.com Contact us at info@ashleyconnorrealty.com

For Appointment: Patricia Bensen-Ashley, Broker/Owner, 607-437-1149 Jack Foster, Sales Agent, 607-547-5304 • Donna Skinner, Associate Broker, 607-287-4113 Chris Patterson, Sales Agent, 518-774-8175

Real estate agents in the know advertise in THE REgION’S lARgEST NEWSpApER REAl ESTATE SECTION. Call 607-547-6103 NOW!

AllOTSEGO.homes

All

7 NIGH

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$ 95

Bliss, BARBECUED! PAGE B-1

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, JANUARY 10-11, 2019

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HAPPENIN’ OTSEGO

THINGS TO DO

By LIBBY CUDMORE

ONEONTA

it’s bridal fair time!

ikki Bower reminds you to always eat barbeque ►FOOTHILLS with care. annual Wedding Expo is noon-3 “I’m not a girly-girl, so wearp.m. Sunday, Jan. ing a wedding dress all day was 13, on 24 S. Marhard for me,” she joked. “I was ket St., Oneonta. trying to eat responsibly, but I got $5 in advance; barbeque sauce all down the front $7 at door. 431of my dress!” 2080 Married June 25, 2016, Nikki and her husband Sean were on the cutting edge of the latest in wedding trends – forgoing filet mignon and lobster tails for some good old-fashioned barbeque. “It’s more affordable than steak and shrimp,” said Bobbi Harlem, owner of the Carriage House, the Southside wedding venue. “And for us, it goes really well with the barn-like atmosphere of the Carriage House.” Please See BARBEQUE, B3

AllOTSEGO.life

Ian Austin/

So much for the Singing Telegram Girl (Liz Dixon). Wadsworth (Jack Flynn), Mr. Green (Katie Capra) and Professor Plum (Trystan Jennings) bemoan that she never got to finish her song before being killed as part of “Clue: On Stage” this weekend at OHS.

Murder Mystery, Scottish Delights, Cat Yoga Returns

W AllOTSEGO.life

Ian Austin/

Nikki Bower, left, knows sometimes good food can be messy. She and husband Sean, above, were early local adopters of a growing barbeque wedding trend.

NEXT YEAR, JOE HUGHES JOINS HIS MENTOR

Tony Drago looks over the program from OHS’ first Drago Basketball Tournament, 60 years ago.

This Year, Drago Tourney At OHS Marked 60th Year By JENNIFER HILL ONEONTA

T AllOTSEGO.life

Jennifer Hill/

wo OHS athletic directors – the current one, Joe Hughes, and a legendary one, Tony Drago – presented the annual Tony Drago Tournament trophy Saturday, Dec. 1, to the Lady Yellowjackets. They realized they were marking two milestones. One, it will be Joe Hughes’ last:

He is retiring in June. Two, Tony Drago was marking his namesake tournament’s 60th anniversary. “It’s bittersweet,” said Hughes. “There was no better way to go out than with the OHS girls’ win. Presenting the trophy with Tony to them was an honor. “I’ve been blessed to have had such a good job and worked with such good people,” he said. “Coaches, students, directors, and of course, Tony.” Please See TOURNEY, B5

as it Mr. Mustard in the bedroom with the rope? Or Mrs. Scarlett in the study with the revolver? Only the Oneonta High School drama club knows the answer as they present “Clue: On Stage.” Tickets, $10. 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Jan. 11-12, Oneonta High School, 130 Upper East Street, Oneonta. (607) 433-8200. • Beat the mid-winter blues with the Cabin Fever Film Fest! This week, enjoy “Phantom Thread,” a criticallyacclaimed drama about the love life of dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock. Free. 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11, The Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400. • Find your “Om” and LIBBY your “Meow!” as Cat CUDMORE Yoga returns with Lisa Brown. All proceeds to Susquehanna SPCA. $10. Bring your own mat. 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11, First Baptist Church, 21 Elm St., Cooperstown. (607) 547-9371. • It’s a taste of the highlands with a Scottish heritage themed potluck dinner. Bring a dish to pass 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, Fly Creek United Methodist Church, 852 Co. Rd. 26, Fly Creek. (607) 547-9946 • Enjoy the Metropolitan Opera’s performance of Cilea’s “Adriana Lecouvreur” without having to travel to Manhattan. 12:55 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, Foothills Performing Arts Center, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL • HOMETOWN ONEONTA

AllOTSEGO.com, WHERE OTSEGO COUNTY GOES FOR BREAKING NEWS

VISIT www.

January Clearance Event

Don’t miss out on HUGE savings during our Month of Clearance UP TO 80% OFF SELECT SEASONAL MERCHANDISE THROUGHOUT THE MALL!

B-2

AllOTSEGO.life Friday, January 11

FUNDRAISER – 6 p.m. Cat Yoga with Lisa Brown. All proceeds to Susquehanna SPCA. Suggested donation, $10. Bring your own mat. 1st Baptist Church, 21 Elm St., Cooperstown. 607-547-9371. FILM SCREENING – 6 p.m. Showing “Aquaman.” Walton Theater, 30 Gardiner Place, Walton. 607-865-6688. MOVIE NIGHT – 6 - 8 p.m. Family movie night featuring “Ice Age.” Popcorn & drinks provided. Admission, $2. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main St., Otego. 607-988-6661. FILM SCREENING – 6:30 p.m. Beat Cabin Fever with “Phantom

THURSDAY-Friday, JANUARY 10-11, 2019 Thread” (2017) about love life of dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock. Free with donation. The Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. 607547-1400. THEATER – 7 p.m. OHS presents “Clue: On Stage.” Tickets, $10 general admission. Oneonta High School, 130 Upper East Street, Oneonta. 607-433-8200. CONTRADANCE – 7:30 - 10 p.m. Square Dance with Doubleday Dancers of Cooperstown at Winter Dance. Caller, Ray Taylor. Cue, Elma Taylor. Admission, $5/person. Cooperstown Elementary School. 607-547-8665.

Saturday, January 12

BOOK COLLECTION – 10 a.m.

- Noon. Clean out spare books, donate to Village library for Winter Book Sale to be held Winter Carnival Weekend. Enter through Fair St. entrance by police station. Cooperstown Village Library. 607-547-8344. MAKERSPACE – 10:30 a.m. Bring knit/crochet project or start something new with friends. Cooperstown Village Library. 607547-8344. OPERA – 12:55 p.m. Live streaming “Adriana Lecouvreur” by Cilea. Foothills Performing Arts Center, Oneonta. 607-4312080. FILM SCREENING – 1 & 6 p.m. Showing “Aquaman.” See Friday Listing. POTLUCK DINNER – 6:30 p.m. Bring a dish to pass at

AllOTSEGO.

dining&entertainment

OTSEGO COUNTY

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO WHAT’S FUN AROUND HERE send calendar items to info@allotsego

Scottish heritage themed potluck dinner. Fly Creek United Methodist Church, 852 Co. Rd. 26, Fly Creek. 607-547-9946. THEATER – 7 p.m. OHS presents “Clue: On Stage.” See Friday Listing

Sunday, January 13

FILM SCREENING – 1 p.m. Showing “Aquaman.” See Friday Listing. SUNDAY PROGRAM – 3 - 4 p.m. David Strogatz, Ph.D. presents “Bassett Research in Our Community: The Longitudinal on Aging Drivers.” Village Ballroom, Village Library of Cooperstown. 607-547-8344. SELF DEFENSE – 5 p.m. Course for anyone looking to broaden handgun knowledge, physically/mentally prepare to defend themselves. Cost, $50/ person. Oneonta Sportsman’s Club, 251 Rod & Gun Club Road, Oneonta. 607-433-0515. BASKETBALL – 6 p.m. Cheer on Oneonta Octane basketball team at home game. SUNY Oneonta. 607-432-0001.

Monday, January 14

STITCHERS GROUP – 1 - 2 p.m. Bring knit, crochet, other stitching project to work in company of knowledgeable peers. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main St., Otego. 607-988-6661. PUBLIC SPEAKING – 5:30 p.m. Practice public speaking with the Toastmasters. All welcome. White House Building, The Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. 607-547-1466 or e-mail b.fischer@fenimoreart.org.

Tuesday, January 15

KIDS MORNING MOVIE – 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Bring the kids for fun morning movie “Nemo.” Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main St., Otego. 607-988-6661.

It will snow!

COMMUNITY PROGRAM – 2 p.m. The Gathering Place presents Selinda Brandon, wildlife biologist, presenting on the Eastern Coyote. Learn about our shy, omnivorous neighbors in the woods. Refreshments to follow. Woodside Hall, 1 Main St., Cooperstown. 607-547-0600 ext. 101.

Wednesday, January 16

FILM SCREENING – 1 p.m. Showing “Aquaman.” See Friday Listing. WRITING CLUB – 4:15 p.m. Join local writers to improve your craft, share ideas/progress in supportive environment. All ages/abilities welcome. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main St., Otego. 607-988-6661. CHESS MEETING – 6 - 11 p.m. Weekly meeting welcomes players of all levels. No fees. Cafeteria, College Union, SUNY Oneonta. Call Dom at 607-4847240. CHAMBER MEETING – 6:30 p.m. Speakers from This Is Cooperstown discuss importance of Richfield Springs tourism to our area. Richfield Springs CoOp, 140 W. Main St., Richfield Springs. 315-529-7584. OPENING NIGHT – 7 p.m. Returning for a second season, Film Society of Cooperstown presents “All The President’s Men” (1976) with after film discussion led by Will Walker, associate producer of history at CGP. Free, refreshments included. Village Ball Room, 22 Main St., Cooperstown. 607-437-6903. BOE MEETING – 7 - 8 p.m. Library Media Center, Cooperstown High School. 607-547-8181.

Thursday, January 17

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

Just in time for

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

• Bocca osteria • happy hour

Half Price Pizzas and BOGO On all hOuse drinks*

CABIN FEVER WINTERFEST! Join us for sledding, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, campfires, food & games and more!

FREE

WINTER FUN AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!!

Enjoy the view of the lake, stay warm by the fire & have a FUN-FILLED day!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26TH 11 AM - 3 PM Gilbert Lake State Park, Laurens for more information, go to www.cabinfeverwinterfest.com

conservation/renewable energy programs, more with Karl Seeley professor of economics at Hartwick, Dan Butterman candidate for NYS Assembly district 121, Leslie Orzetti executive director Otsego County Conservation Association. Followed by Q&A session. Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St., Oneonta. BUSINESS SEMINAR – 8 - 10 a.m. 2 part Branding Seminar for small businesses. Start-ups learn why/how & 6-step process to build their new brand. Existing businesses learn to evaluate current brand for consistency, determine if/where to make changes. Cost, $35/person. Otsego County Chamber, 5th floor, 189 Main St., Oneonta. 607-267-4010. MOBILE SCREENING – 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Screening coach offers free mammograms, pap tests to women 40+. Southside Mall, Oneonta. 1-888-345-0225.

Friday, January 18

BAGELS & BENEFITS – 8:30 - 10 a.m. Enjoy bagels and benefits breakfast presented by Family Resource Network. Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, 5th Floor, 189 Main St., Oneonta. 607-267-4010. VOLUNTEER – 6 p.m. Orientation for new volunteers to get to know animal shelter. Reservations preferred. Susquehanna SPCA, 4841 St. Hwy. 28, Cooperstown. 607-547-8111.

AllOTSEGO. classifieds

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – 7 - 9 p.m. Join panel to discuss Economic development, renewable energy possibilities, existing

new york pizzeria

www.boccaosteria.com · 607-282-4031 5438 State Hwy 28 · Cooperstown, NY 13326

Every Friday 5 pm to 8 pm *Bar service only

.com

ITEMS FOR SALE 25th Annual Citrus Sale Oneonta First UMC. Calif. large navel oranges, 18 for $10. Other quantities available; pink seedless grapefruit (if available). Order by 1/28 for 2/14-15 pickup. Free delivery Oneonta area. 607-431-9029 or 607-4324102. 3Class.Jan.24 APARTMENT FOR RENT FOR RENT Village of Cooperstown 2/2 home next to NBT on Pioneer and Church. Den, library, small kitchen, close to Bassett, Main Street, the gym, etc. Quiet complex. $1800/mo plus utilities and heat. Includes lawn maintenance and snow removal. Text 6 pm-8 pm 607-437-6853

Do what you Do and let our readers know about it! Bands. ConCerts. arts. theatre. Food. entertainment. Comedy. Films. musiC. Fashion. Fairs. Festivals. Plays. museums. exhiBits. danCe. sPorts. Whatever!

Tell our readers what you’re up to! Reach the most newspaper readers in Otsego County.

Call 607-547-6103 noW!

AllOTSEGO.

dining&entertainment

AllOTSEGO.life

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, JANUARY 10-11, 2019

B-3

Brides Swap Filet Mignon For Pulled Pork BARBEQUE/From B1 Barbeque “is more family-style and more relaxing,” said Ryan Brooks, owner of Brooks’ BBQ. The Bowers’ wedding was catered by Andre’s Blue Ribbon on Route 7 east of the city. “We didn’t even know they catered,” said Nikki. “We’ve always gone there, and so we asked, and they agreed!” “Barbeque has always been popular in other parts of the country,” said Theresa Andre, who operates Andre’s with her husband, Pat. “But now, a lot of people are doing these rustic-theme weddings, and it fits right in.” Pulled pork is the favorite, but chicken remains popular, and brisket is making a comeback. “The Food Network has really been promoting brisket, so that’s what everyone’s asking for,” said Andre. “We offer southern-style barbeque, low and slow, with a dry rub rather than a lot of sauce.” But as delicious as they are, ribs aren’t a popular choice, for obvious reasons. “People love our ribs, but it’s risky with a white wedding gown,” said Brooks. “Chicken and pulled pork are easier to eat.” Brooks also partners with both the Carriage House and Sunrise Catering. “We’ll do the appetizers

Jessica Soriano, a waitress at Brooks’ BBQ, serves up a plate of their pulled pork – a wedding day favorite!

and desserts, as well as handle china, linens and wait staff, but Brooks’ will be the entrée,” said Janet Hurley-Quackenbush, who runs Sunrise Catering with her husband Mark. “It’s always a crowd-pleaser.” According to Brooks, his caterers handle 20-30 weddings a season, both on-site and off. “We had an email yesterday from a fan of ours who wants us to cater his wedding,” he said. “It’s a little outside our 100-mile service area, but for a wedding, you don’t

worry about mileage. When we get to be part of their day, it’s huge for us.” And small portions are the way to go. “When people are dancing or hanging around a bonfire, you may not want a big plate of meat,” said Andre. “We like to do a buffet with sliders so we can let people mix and match sandwiches, or do a quarter chicken, rather than a half. You can always come back for seconds!” But don’t forget the fixin’s. “We pride ourselves on our homemade mac ’n’ cheese!” said Harlem, “It’s extra cheesy and creamy.” “Our mashed potato bar is really popular,” said Quackenbush. “People really love comfort food.” It also lends itself to easier cleanup. “It’s a little more casual, you can use disposable service, rather than china,” said Harlem. Brooks has even made bottles of his famous sauce available as wedding favors. “We can do a custom label, or people buy our sauce and put a bow on it,” he said. “But we don’t recommend using it in place of throwing rice! That could get messy!” As for Bower’s dress, it was Ian Austin/ OTSEGO.life Janet Hurley-Quackenbush, owner of Sunrise Catering, nothing a good cleaning couldn’t fix. “David’s Bridal cleaned it for and caterer Jennifer Russo have the delicious food and the rustic decor you need for your wedding! me,” she said.

All

Weddings Turn your Dreams inTo realiTy!

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This day needs to be perfect… Let us help make it perfect for you!

Weddings and Bridal Showers

Now accepting reservations for 2019 & 2020 790 Southside Drive, Oneonta · 607-434-0103 · www.carriagehouseoneonta.com

Make It Memorable Make It Magical

Wedding Cakes Mohican Flowers Where Creativity Has Bloomed for More Than 100 Years!

207 Main St, Cooperstown, NY • 607-547-8822 • 800-378-1143 mohicanflowers@aol.com · Mohicanflowers.org

Specialty Cakes for Any Occasion Marjorie Landers 46 Chestnut Street Cooperstown phone 607.547.8340 marjorielanders@stny.rr.com

You want the perfect flowers for that special day

Coddington’s Florist

Come to Coddington’s for the most amazing fresh flowers you have ever seen! 607-432-3744 | Clinton Plaza (lower level) | Oneonta coddingtonsflorist.com Mon-Fri 9 am to 5 pm | Sat 9 am to 3 pm | Closed Sundays

B-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, JANUARY 10-11, 2019

LEGALS Legal

Legal nOtice NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed bids will be received as set forth in instructions to bidders until 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, January 31, 2019 at the NYSDOT, Contract Management Bureau, 50 Wolf Rd, 1st Floor, Suite 1CM, Albany, NY 12232 and will be publicly opened and read. Bids may also be submitted via the internet using www.bidx.com. A certified cashier’s check payable to the NYSDOT for the sum specified in the proposal or a bid bond, form CONR 391, representing 25% of the bid total, must accompany each bid. NYSDOT reserves the right to reject any or all bids. Electronic documents and Amendments are posted to www.dot. ny.gov/doing-business/opportunities/const-notices. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that all Amendments are incorporated into its bid. To receive notification of Amendments via e-mail you must submit a request to be placed on the Planholders List at www.dot. ny.gov/doing-business/opportunities/ const-planholder. Amendments may have been issued prior to your placement on the Planholders list. NYS Finance Law restricts communication with NYSDOT on procurements and contact can only be made with designated persons. Contact with non-designated persons or other involved Agencies will be considered a serious matter and may result in disqualification. Contact Robert Kitchen (518)4572124. Contracts with 0% Goals are generally single operation contracts, where subcontracting is not expected, and may present direct bidding opportunities for Small Business Firms, including, but not limited to D/W/ MBEs. The New York State Department of Transportation, in accordance with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office

Legal

the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federallyassisted programs of the Department of Transportation and Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 200, Title IV Program and Related Statutes, as amended, issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all who respond to a written Department solicitation, request for proposal or invitation for bid that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability/handicap and income status in consideration for an award. BIDDERS SHOULD BE ADVISED THAT AWARD OF THESE CONTRACTS MAY BE CONTINGENT UPON THE PASSAGE OF A BUDGET APPROPRIATION BILL BY THE LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. Please call (518)457-2124 if a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the letting. Region 02: New York State Department of Transportation 207 Genesee Street, Utica, NY, 13501 D263901, PIN DRC319, FA Proj , Albany, Broome, Chenango, Clinton, Columbia, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Tioga, Ulster, Warren, Washington Cos., Upstate East Where & When Debris Removal Contract, Regions 1, 2, 7, 9 and Northern Counties of Region 8, Columbia and Ulster., Bid Deposit: $750,000.00, Goals: DBE: 0.00% Region 10: New York State Department of Transportation NYS Office Building,, Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge, NY, 11788 D263898, PIN DRC119,

Legal

FA Proj , Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Westchester Cos., 2 Year Where/When Debris Removal Contract for Downstate New York, Bid Deposit: $750,000.00, Goals: DBE: 0.00% 2LegalJan.17 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Traditio Designs LLC. Filed 8/10/18. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: C/ O Maciej Lorens, 168 Rosa Mystica Dr, Edmeston, NY 13335. Purpose: General. 6LegalFeb.14 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Abundant Self Storage LLC. Arts. Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/02/19. Ottice: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC. Legaling Corporate Services INC. 1967 WEHRLE DRIVE WUITE 1 #086 BUFFALO, NY 14221. Purpose: Any Lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.14 Legal nOtice Notice of the Formation of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) Name: Teach REAL, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State (NYSS) on June 4, 2018. Office for the LLC in in Otsego County. SSNY is Designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to principal office of the LLC which is 5 Monroe Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalFeb.14 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of KOMEEKHA

COTTAGE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/19/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 9 Westridge Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalFeb.7 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of WESTRIDGE COTTAGE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/19/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 9 Westridge Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalFeb.7 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of ONEONTA AIRPORT PROPERTIES, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on December 11, 2018. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC. 602 Bullville Road, Montgomery, NY 12549. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act. 6LegalFeb.7

Legal

St., Ste. 700, #40, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful activities. 6LegalJan.31 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Melody Village Manager LLC, Art. of Org. filed with Sec’y of State (SSNY) on 11/26/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Reg. Agents, 90 State St., Ste. 700, #40, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful activities. 6LegalJan.31 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Melody Village Owner LLC, Art. of Org. filed with Sec’y of State (SSNY) on 11/26/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Reg. Agents, 90 State St., Ste. 700, #40, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful activities. 6LegalJan.31 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of MDFARMEQ, LLC.

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Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/12/18. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 807 County Highway 35, P.O. Box 155, Maryland, NY 12116. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.24

Notice of Formation of

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Melody Village Investors LLC,

Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company

Art. of Org. filed with Sec’y of State (SSNY) on 11/26/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Reg. Agents, 90 State

Name: OSTERHOUDT MECHANICAL LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 12 December 2018.

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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 5940 St Hwy 7, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.24 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Friends of the Trans Adirondack Route, LLC. Article of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) 5/21/13. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. Purpose of LLC: to engage in any lawful act or activity. Street address of Principal Business location is 246 Southside Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820. County of Principle Business is Otsego. 6LegalJan.24 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Sugarhouse Farms Limited Liability Company in Otsego County. Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (NS) on December 4, 2018, NS is designated as agent upon whom process may be served, NS shall mail service of process (SOP) to 3 Michael Drive, Schenectady, NY 12303. The purpose of Sugarhouse Farms LLC is to operate as a corporation legally and lawfully in the State of New York. 6LegalJan.24 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of B.C.E. HOME SERVICES, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/12/2018. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 304 Main St., Schoharie, NY 12157, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.24

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SUMMIT GROVE BUILDERS LLC.

Notice of formation of

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 13 November 2018. 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 8211 St Hwy 80, Springfield Center, NY 13468. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.10

The Parish Paper, LLC. Filed with SSNY on 12/1/2018. Office Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process and shall mail to: 41 Ford Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.24 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) HUNT’S REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES LLC The Articles of Organization were filed with the New York State Secretary of State on October 29, 2018. OFFICE LOCATION: Otsego County. The Secretary of state is designated as Agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC to 297 Shaw Brook rd, South New Berlin, NY 13843. PURPOSE: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 6LegalJan.10 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of 61 CHURCH STREET, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of state on November 2, 2018. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 45-75 159th St., Flushing, NY, 11358. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act. 6LegalJan.10 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name:

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OTSEGO COUNTY’S DAILY NEWSPAPER/online

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: ANTHONY WAHL PROPERTY LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 1 November 2018. 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 568 St Hwy 166, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.10 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company Name: ANTHONY WAHL REAL ESTATE LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 27 November 2018. 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 568 St Hwy 166, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.10 Legal nOtice Notice of

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Formation of Craft 174 LLC, Art. of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/20/18. Off. loc.: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served & shall mail proc.: 174 Underwood Dr., Otego, NY 13825. Purp.: any lawful purp. 6LegalJan.10 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of 31 Pioneer Street, LLC Filed 11/20/18 Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 31 Pioneer Street Suite 3, Cooperstown, NY 13326 Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJan.17 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Professional Service Limited Liability Company (PLLC) Name: Leatherstocking Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and NP in Acute Care Services PLLC; d/b/a: Leatherstocking Anesthesia and Acute Care. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 21, 2018. Office location: Otsego County. The SSNY has been designated as the agent of the PLLC upon whom processes against the PLLC may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the PLLC, 225 Bristol Road Hartwick, NY 13348. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.17 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of David Benjamin LLC Arts of Org. filed with New York Secy of State (SSNY) on 11/8/18. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 165 W. End Ave, Apt 17D, NY, NY 10023. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalJan17

AllOTSEGO.life

THURSDAY-Friday, JANUARY 10-11, 2019

B-5

Drago Tournament Began Same Year Coach’s Team Went Unbeaten

AllOTSEGO.life

Jennifer Hill/

Tony Drago reviews the program from the first year of what became the annual Drago Basketball Tournament, which marked its 60th year in December. It featured Drago’s famous unbeaten, untied basketball team, that featured such players as the future Jerry Jeff Walker (Ronald Crosby) and Jim Konstanty.

AllOTSEGO.

ENERGY SUMMIT INFRASTRUCTURE & ECONOMY

Thursday, January 31, 2019 • The Otesaga Resort Hotel Registration 9:30 am • Summit 10 am - 3 pm • Lunch Buffet Noon • $60/person

This Summit is the region’s MUST-ATTEND energy event. Become informed and help shape an energy roadmap. Explore nexus of energy, climate change and much more as it relates to our region. Registration closes Thursday January, 24 at 5 pm Contact Karen Laing, Member Services Administrator 607-432-4500 ext. 104 or email Karen@otsegocc.com Mail a check to PO Box 18, Oneonta, NY 13820

opportunities

A&D Transport is looking for taxi drivers. Part & Full time positions. Please contact Chrissy 607-287-3799

Hartwick College is seeking a full-time, 12-month Administrative Assistant responsible for coordinating all support functions for the Translational Biomedical Research Management (TBRM) Program. For detailed information, please visit www.hartwick.edu/jobs. EOE.

School Secretary

The Oneonta Municipal Civil Service Commission announces an open-competitive exam for School Secretary for the Oneonta City School District on March 2. Application deadline is Jan 28. Applications and exam announcement are available at the Personnel Office, 258 Main St. or at www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel

EOE

MeMories to Cherish every life has a story. everyone deserves a final appreciation.

Open Competitive Exams The Oneonta Municipal Civil Service Commission announces open-competitive exams for the following positions on March 2. Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator Application deadline is Jan 28. Applications and exam announcement are available at the Personnel Office, 258 Main Street or at www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel EOE

For this reason, obituaries have always been published at no cost in Hometown Oneonta, The Freeman’s Journal and www.AllOtsegO.com. Be sure to remind your funeral director to provide obituary information to our newspapers, along with your favorite photo of your loved one. Or submit the information yourself, either directly to info@AllOtsegO.com, or by filling out a special form at www.AllOtsegO.com/loved-ones/

OUNDED

Cooperstown’s Newspaper

•F

E WIL

& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

1808 BY

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

O M C O PE

space allowing, as many obituaries as possible will appear in the print publications. All obituaries submitted will be published in a timely fashion on www.AllOtsegO.com.

SCHNEIDER/From A4 The sheer mass of room nights added to inventory with little to no visitor growth has collapsed the winter rates in this village to the point of decision for a number of us. That decision will dramatically affect employees, let alone the historical property upkeep B&Bs/inns contribute so much to here in the greater Cooperstown area. 5) $73 — That’s the current published winter rate in a few fine establishments here in the village. $73! You’ll pay 50 percent more to stay in Binghamton! (Not that there’s anything wrong with Binghamton!) Let me be frank, in no way am I requesting that any government body shelter my business from competition. Nor am I requesting it protect businesses that do not invest in themselves and then find themselves obsolete. I am saying, though, that the B&B/inn community in this area adds significantly to the quaintness we all market as the idyllic small-town Cooperstown experience. When you jeopardize Bed & Breakfasts by introducing another 36,865 chain-hotel room nights with little to no new demand, you are threatening that Cooperstown experience. Make no mistake about it, this new hotel in Hartwick will ABSOLUTELY market itself as a Cooperstown hotel, thereby leveraging the marketing strength of the Cooperstown quaintness brand, even as it helps (unwittingly, perhaps) to destroy it. Without doubt, the proposed hotel can and perhaps has already cited its own marketing studies to the Hartwick town Planning Board. And many others will simply take on faith that no one would invest the kind of money needed to build a hotel without understanding the math. I simply offer that the math I presented above is no “study.” FRED SCHNEIDER Owner, Landmark Inn Cooperstown

game when the OHS boys defeated the “previously unbeaten” Mount Pleasant High from Schenectady in double-overtime, 67-65. A girls’ division was added to the tournament in 1990, but the format didn’t change. As with the boys, four girls’ teams competed. That same year, the holiday connected to the tournament changed from Christmas to Thanksgiving because too many schools had started their own invitational tournaments that were crowding out OHS’. Later, the tournament was held over two weekends instead of one, the boys playing the weekend before Thanksgiving and the girls the weekend after.

County Hotels Can’t Absorb Hampton Inn

Carolina, NC State, and Duke were in it. I wanted a similar tournament in Oneonta – invite three teams to play OHS in Oneonta over the weekend between Christmas and New Year’s.” OHS administrators liked Drago’s idea. Alumni visiting for the holidays and families of the students playing in the tournament would reconnect at the games, share thrills and agony, and likely return for the next year. Eventually, it would become a holiday weekend ritual. The first tournament in 1958 drew 1,500 fans, who watched a thrilling end of the championship

TOURNEY/From B1 Hughes and Drago, who retired as OHS athletic director in 1984, share more than just that title. Their families have been close since at least the late 1930s, when Drago and Hughes’ dad, Bill, attended OHS together. Tony was best man at Bill’s wedding, and a second father to Joe. “Joe is my son,” Drago declared. “He’s a good kid.” As for Joe Hughes, “I followed in Drago’s footsteps.” He went away to college, but came home to teach and coach – baseball, rather than basketball – at both men’s alma mater. Hughes earned his BA from Florida International University and racked up numerous laurels in the College World Series and Minor League Baseball. Drago served in World War II, graduated from Springfield College, and was Duke’s assistant basketball coach in the 1950s before returning to Oneonta in 1957. Both men were inducted in OHS’ Athletics Hall of Fame. Drago got the idea for the invitational basketball tournament while at Duke, which played in the annual Dixie Classic tournament. “It was held over the weekend between Christmas and New Year’s,” Drago said. “Wake Forest, North

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EOE

B-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2019

OBITUARIES

Carl F. Bliss, 98, County Native; Aviation Pioneer, Entrepreneur

COOPERSTOWN – Carl Frank Bliss, 98, a WWII veteran who flew for his country, for love and for sport, passed away peacefully in his home in Encinada, Calif., with loved ones by his side, on Dec. 10, 2018. Born on the family farm outside Cooperstown on Nov. 3, 1920, (or as his favorite hat said, “Born in the USA a long, long time ago”), to Claude and Anastasia (Cramer) Bliss, Carl was a brother to Claud E. Bliss Jr., Clyde G. Bliss, and Ann C. “Sis” Grover.

In his early years, he learned the values of hard work and good humor, delighting his beloved younger sister with motorcycle rides around their property to speed up (and add amusement to) their long list of farm chores. He was a graduate of Cooperstown High School, class of 1937. Growing up with more work than wealth, Carl developed a set of do-it-yourself skills that would last him a lifetime. He took those skills with him to the Army Air Corps,

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where he received formal training as an aviation mechanic in Tonopah, Nev. From there, Carl served his country as a crew chief, seeing combat in the Northern France, Ardennes-Alsace and Rhineland campaigns of the World War II European Theater. During his tenure as a soldier, Carl earned many decorations and citations, including three Bronze Stars and the Air Medal, both of which recognize heroic and meritorious achievements. He was discharged in October 1945 with the rank of sergeant. Shortly after returning home from war, Carl traveled the country by motorcycle and suffered a serious accident that left him bedridden for months and without proper movement of his right leg for the rest of his life. Carl modified his own vehicle to accommodate his injured leg so that he could begin work as a rural mail carrier for the Postal Service

in Otsego County in 1948. His love of the American West, which he had first visited on two Carl Bliss wheels, led to a job in Ontario, Calif., and his permanent relocation from Upstate New York in 1956. After 25 years of federal civil service, his life as an entrepreneur was born. Carl owned and operated the small airport in Sedona, Ariz., until he retired in the early 1980s. Still standing at the facility is an historic monument recognizing Carl as a local pioneer of flight. In addition to providing ground services, he piloted many tours of the scenic desert landscapes throughout Arizona and Nevada, including proudly flying for a National Geographic aerial photographer. During

his retirement, Carl rented and maintained airplane hangars in small airports in the southwest. He and his life partner, Dolores, traveled the world together. He maintained a special and close relationship with his only child, his son, Kim, until his untimely death in 2013. He humbly shared his values of frugality, clean living, self-reliance and adventure with everyone who he loved. Carl was predeceased by his parents; his siblings; his wife, Mary Lee (Miller); his son, Kim F.; his niece, Sandra; his nephews Michael and James Grover; and his loving partner and companion of 30 years, Dolores Reed. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Josephine Bliss of Cooperstown; nieces and nephews Constance of Cooperstown, Timothy (Janet) of Fredericksburg, Va., Patricia of Cooperstown, Joanne (Richard) Reynolds of Rising Fawn, Ga., Amy of

Cooperstown, David (Kim) of Cooperstown, and Laura (William) Bliss-Lamb of Cooperstown,Terrance (Theresa) of Cooperstown, Daniel (Nancy) of Oneonta, and Susan of Burlington; and, Stacy Grover-Simonds of the Town of Maryland, and Carla of Fly Creek. Also mourning his death are many great-nieces and great-nephews, neighbors and close friends Katrina and Jim Tankersley, Kathy Davis of Lake Arrowhead, Calif., whom Carl fondly considered his step-daughter, and countless others. Carl’s remains will be cremated and interred at the Miramar National Cemetery, located on the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, California, near his son, Kim, who was also a veteran. As per Carl’s wishes, a portion of his remains will also be returned to New York for burial on the family farm outside Cooperstown. No formal services or calling hours will be held.

COOPERSTOWN – M.E. “Betsy” Hayes, 70, Toddsville, long active in public health initiatives, and most recently in the news as president of the Centers at Cooperstown (former Focus) Family Council, passed away on Jan. 2, 2019, from complications of a recent illness. Born in Plainfield, N.J., to Norma and Dick Wagner, Betsy cherished the memories of her early childhood in the South Jersey town of Delanco, moved to metropolitan Cranford, N.J., in middle school, and obtained a BSN degree from Keuka College. Her early professional work included hospital nursing in New Jersey, Massachusetts and Connecticut. She later worked for the Upstate Home (now

Springbrook), Otsego Head Start, the Otsego Area School of Practical Nursing, the Brookwood School, and the Otsego Public Health Partnership. She was a co-founder of the Healthy Families Home Visiting program at Opportunities for Otsego, served on various program advisory committees, and most recently was health policy consultant to Otsego Head Start. She held state certification as a Public Health Program Specialist. An adventurous spirit, Betsy met the love of her life and husband-to-be, Bill, in a Parisian cafe’ in 1969. They continued to explore the world together and introduced their children and grandchildren to nearby and faraway places. Betsy visited nine European

countries, the headwaters of the Amazon by riverboat, Australia, Costa Rica, all continental U.S. Betsy states and Hayes Alaska, plus 10 provinces of Canada, traveling by plane, train, boat, hovercraft, hydrofoil, and the ever-intriguing road trips by car. Devoted to the importance of personal relationships and communitybuilding, Betsy and Bill took pride in acquiring and renovating historic buildings in their neighborhood and providing affordable year‘round housing. In addition to her hus-

band, Bill, she is survived by two sons, Ben (Emily) Hayes of North Stonington, Conn., and of Tim (Lindsay) Hayes of Cooperstown. She was “MeMe” to her delightful grandchildren Wyatt, Skyler and Elliott of North Stonington, and Madison and Lucy of Cooperstown. She was sister to Rick (Muff) Wagner Jr. and Ginny Wagner, both of Isle of Palms, S.C. She leaves, as well, her cousins Ly, Skip and Toby, her cherished nieces and nephews, and her many colleagues and friends. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by Otty Barton and Lya Wallerius. A Celebration of her life will be held in late spring. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley.

Betsy Hayes, 70, Toddsville; Focus Family Council Chair

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

Earl N. Buffett, 94; Trooper Headed Clark Family Security COOPERSTOWN – Earl Nathaniel Buffett, Jr., 93, a retired state trooper and former head of security for the Clark family interests, passed away, Jan. 1, 2019, at Chestnut Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Oneonta. A native of Long Island himself, he was born May 9, 1925, in Huntington, a son of Earl Nathaniel and Estelle May Conklin-Buffett. After graduating from high school, Buffett enlisted

in the Army Air Corps on March 30, 1943, and served as an aviation cadet during World War II at Randolph Field in San Antonio, Texas. He received training as a B-24 Aerial Gunner, Bombardier and Navigator. He served as a second lieutenant with the 231st Army Air Force Base Unit from Nov. 11, 1944, until his discharge on Dec. 19, 1945. He married Jennie May Sammis Easter Sunday, April 17, 1948. They began

raising their family on Long Island and in 1956 moved to Cooperstown. Here, Buffett began his career in law enforcement as a state trooper. Working out of the Oneonta barracks, he served as a zone sergeant in Troop C, retiring at the age of 49. He then went to work for Stephen Clark as head of security for the Cooperstown area Clark properties, including The Farmers’ Museum and Fenimore House.

Thank You

The family of Terance Pugliese would like to thank all of those who stood in line for many hours to attend Terry’s calling hours, all who took time out of busy holiday schedules to attend his service, those who made donations and gave flowers in his name, and those who sent sympathy cards and well wishes (we know you were with us in spirit). We are overwhelmed with the outpouring of love, caring, and kindness. Our sincerest hope is that you remember Terry fondly with his big smile and kind word for everyone.

Earl is survived by five children and 16 grandchildren: Sandra Schecher and her husband, Henry J. Schecher III, of Cooperstown; Bruce Buffett of Norfolk, Va; Lynda Morris and her husband, David A. Morris, of Traverse City, Mich.; Laurie Kearns and her husband, Gary Kearns, of Cooperstown; and Lisa Leslie and her husband, Edwin Leslie, of Fly Creek; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years on June 10, 2013, and by a half brother, David Owen Buffett, in 1991. The Service of the Burial of the Dead with the Holy Eucharist was celebrated by the Rev’d Dane E. Boston on Saturday, Jan. 5, at Christ Episcopal Church. The Committal Service and burial will take place later this Spring at Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown, the Rev’d Boston officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home.