Hartwick Town Passes Solar Moratorium
By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL HARTWICK
n a special meeting on Friday, March 20, the Town of Hartwick Town Board unanimously passed a six month solar moratorium—with the support of the developer for a proposed solar project in the town. For the six-month period, a broad range of solar projects will not be allowed to proceed in the town, including both solar farms and rooftop solar. Now, the Hartwick Town Board will work in conjunction with the town attorney and Planning Board to research and likely draft a law regulating solar energy in the town.
SolAmerica, a Georgia-based solar energy company
Coop Teachers Union Calls Out District
Board Discusses Regionalization and Emergency Notifications
By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL
COOPERSTOWN
At the March 18 regular meeting of the Cooperstown Central School School Board, faculty members raised criticisms of district administration and called for more responsiveness. School board members also discussed emergency notification procedures for board members and regionalization discussions with other local school districts to share resources.
Rebecca Burk-Sciallo, a Junior-Senior High School teacher and co-president of the Cooperstown Faculty Association, rose during public comment on behalf of the union “to express our frustration at what seems like intentional silence to questions, follow up, and clarification from our district office leadership.”
CFA representatives have raised criticisms of district administration at multiple board meetings in recent months.
Burk-Sciallo said, “Clarity makes fertile ground
Continued on page 2
whose inquiries earlier this year about building a solar farm set off widespread community opposition leading to the moratorium, had two representatives attend the public hearing for the moratorium. The company has not filed an application for the project yet.
“I’m actually in favor of your moratorium,” Scott Temple, a permitting manager for the company, told board members during the public hearing preceding the vote. “I think it’s smart that you want to all be on the same page and protect your community. I will say, there’s nothing to protect it from. Solar is a very safe, passive resource.”
“We’d love to be a partner if you’re willing to listen to
Continued on page 11
Olski Winner of First Hugh MacDougall Essay Contest
COOPERSTOWN
ooperstown Central School junior Andrew Olski is the winner of the inaugural Hugh C. MacDougall Essay Contest. The writing competition, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Cooperstown, is in honor of longtime Rotarian Hugh MacDougall. The contest is open to juniors enrolled at CCS and judged by faculty members, officials said. Olski was awarded a cash prize of $500.00 and attended a luncheon meeting hosted by the Rotary Club. Jennifer Pindar, chair
of the CCS History Department, explained the focus of the essays as “based upon history and life in Cooperstown in memoriam to town historian Hugh MacDougall.” MacDougall, a retired United States diplomat, settled in Cooperstown in 1986 and became deeply engrossed in local history, particularly the life and works of James Fenimore Cooper. He served as village historian from 2006 until his passing in 2021. He was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Eleanore. During MacDougall’s
Photo by Jennifer Pindar
David Olski and Sarah Spross join their son, Andrew Olski, as he accepts the inaugural
Hugh C. MacDougall Essay Contest award from Rotary President William Waller. Continued on page 8
Hooray, Hawkeyes!
COOPERSTOWN—Members of the Cooperstown Central School boys basketball team celebrate after winning the New York State Class C championship title on Sunday. Story on page 7.
Photo by PhotoJoe Photography-Joe Harmer
for growth commitment and strategic planning for our district” and that the cFA is “begging for clarity to questions asked, and we are seeking a commitment to timely responses from our district leadership.”
Another teacher, Brian murphy, said that a new teacher evaluation plan was being developed for two years by faculty members. But by this past December, he said, the planning was drawing too much time from their classrooms and they handed the task back to the district.
“We were under the impression that the plan just needed a few more tweaks,” but murphy alleged the administrative team did not communicate with teachers until march 11, when they were sent a plan that had already been submitted to the state and which was “unrecognizable compared to the plan teachers originally designed.”
murphy said, “We are concerned that the plan as it is written now does not fairly evaluate teachers in a meaningful way.”
“The district remains committed to transparent communication and values the input of our faculty and staff,” Superintendent Sarah Spross responded to the criticisms in a statement to AllOtsego. “We
continue to address response timelines, while ensuring comprehensive and consistent communication moving forward.
“Regarding the teacher/principal evaluation plan, we appreciate the significant time and effort contributed by faculty and administration. While the plan has not been submitted for final approval, the shared draft reflects required state considerations alongside prior input, and we recognize there is still work to complete regarding alignment. We are committed to continued dialogue to ensure the evaluation system is fair, meaningful, and supportive of effective teaching and leadership,” Spross said. Among other topics,
Join us for Easter Sunday as we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. May you find the answers you’ve been looking for!
6:30 pm Eucharist with foot washing Speaker Dr. Snodgrass PalmMarchSunday 29
MaundyAprilThursday 2
9:30 am Procession with donkey 10 am Eucharist with Passion Reading “Champagne Brunch” GoodAprilFriday 3 Noon-3 pm “Seven Last Words of Christ” with Seven Speakers
10 am Festival Eucharist with Brass Ensemble 305 Main Street, Oneonta
the board discussed regionalization and the process of emergency notifications to board members.
Regionalization is a New York State Department of Education initiative that is “a collaborative regional planning approach for local districts to communicate what they need in order to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students,” according to the DOE website.
In the Otsego Northern catskills BOcES region, the student population has declined by nearly a third over the last two decades, Spross said during a presentation to the school board. That has created resource pressures on many districts,
making it difficult to fund a wide range of classes and extracurriculars.
“All districts have to take a hard look at things they can control on the revenue side,” Board member christopher Franck said. “Regionalization has a way of sharing resources across school districts.”
Franck, who since December has served as a representative to a group of other school districts discussing regionalization, said the around 19 districts’ first meeting was focused on “idea generation.” Among the ideas that bubbled up, he said: distance learning for certain courses; an Advanced Placement class “hub” location; and development of a common bell schedule
Join us for Easter Worship
PALM SUNDAY 10 am EASTER SUNDAY 10 am 130 Morris Hall, SUNY Oneonta Campus 607-376-7486
First United Methodist Church 66 Chestnut Street, Oneonta 607-432-4102 A Reconciling Congregation Welcoming LGBTQIA Rev. Casey Bradley, Pastor
Palm Sunday, March 29 • Worship 8:15 am & 10:30 am
Maundy Thursday, April 2 • 5:30 pm Worship & Meal Good Friday, April 3 • 12:10 (Ecumenical)
Easter Sunday, April 5 • Sunrise Service 7:00 pm (Courtyard)
Egg Hunt 9:45 am • Worship 10:30 am • Brunch 11:45 am
For online streaming options visit www.firstumc-oneonta.org phone! For info to join us online, go to: / To call in, see numbers below service times
For info to join us onli The “Red Door” Church (First United Presbyterian) Join us in-person, online or by phone!
For info to join us online, go to: www.reddoorchurch.info or www.facebook.com/TheRedDoorChurch/ To call in, see numbers below service times Maundy Thursday 7:00 pm
Easter Sunday Service 10:00 am 301-857-2390 | PIN:
Church Office: 607-432-7520 Rev Dr. Cynthia L. Walton-Leavitt
for schools.
At the second meeting, Franck said, the group focused on finances.
Potential ideas for some districts included tuitioning-out students to other districts and district consolidation. No final decisions were made at either meeting, and the process will continue for some time.
Separately, Board member Keith Parr suggested the district clarify its policies on notifying board members of emergency situations. currently, the superintendent informs the board president, who then informs the rest of the board. The school board is not involved in day-to-day management of the district.
“In light of a couple emergency situations that happened at the school, I don’t understand a clear process where the board is informed of certain things or when they’re not,” Parr said.
Parr said that there had been recent emergency situations that he was still unclear on what
happened and about which he was seeking additional information.
Board President Pete Iorizzo said he would follow the board’s wishes on notifications.
Spross said she could not share too many details, but that, “What I can share with everybody in the public is that whenever—whether it’s a drill and a practice or a live event that we go through— there is a considerable debrief process.”
Spross said a February 6 evacuation drill and a “secure lockout slash lockdown” on February 13 have been “debriefed by the district wide plan, the building level team plan members.” The lockdown, she said, involved “agencies outside the district” who were also incorporated into the debriefing, and that overall the debriefings led to some changes to district practices in emergency situations.
The board also discussed hiring practices for coaches and athletics staff.
mayor Tillapaugh, Trustees Reelected
By ERIc SANTOmAURO-STENZEL cOOPERSTOWN
Village of cooperstown mayor Ellen Tillapaugh and trustees Joseph membrino and George Fasanelli were reelected on march 18. Tillapaugh was elected for a two-year term, and membrino and Fasanelli for three years. Trustee molly mooney, who was previously appointed to fill a vacancy, was elected to complete the term for a year.
“I am honored to continue my service to the Village of cooperstown and its residents,” Tillapaugh told AllOtsego.
All four ran on the Democratic line, with all but membrino also on the many Voices, One Village lines. Votes were cast at the cooperstown Fire Department.
No opposing candidates appeared on the ballot for any of the offices. However, Deputy mayor cynthia Falk received 63 write-in votes for mayor to Tillapaugh’s 107 votes. Falk did not announce a campaign for the office.
“I did not campaign as a write-in candidate,” Falk told AllOtsego.
“I did learn, even before the election, that a number of people planned to vote for me, and I am honored to have their support. I am also pleased to continue serving with mayor Ellen Tillapaugh and other members of the Board of Trustees. I am especially happy that molly mooney chose to run and did so well. For me, serving in village government has been a meaningful way to give back to the community I have chosen to call home,” Falk said.
In a campaign ad in “The Freeman’s Journal” and “Hometown Oneonta” before the election, the cooperstown Democratic committee said “Democracy is not a spectator sport. Please fulfill the responsibilities of the office of citizen and come out to vote!”
In a letter to the editor before the election, Tillapaugh touted the village’s securing grants, infrastructure investments and housing development as reasons to support her candidacy.
The elected positions are unpaid. Village board meetings occur the fourth monday of every month at 6 p.m. at Village Hall.
Photo by Eric Santomauro-Stenzel
The Cooperstown Central School School Board had its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 18.
Brooks’ Brings Back Table Service Ahead of 75th Anniversary
By DAKOTA KEATS SUNY Institute for Local News
After a few uncer-
tain years of operating as a buffet, Brooks’ House of Bar-B-Q is returning to full table service, restoring a dining experience many longtime customers have missed at the beloved Oneonta institution.
As of March 17, the family-owned restaurant has officially reopened its dining room with traditional sit-down service, marking a significant shift after a challenging period shaped by staffing shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic. The move also comes as the restaurant approaches its 75th year serving the community this summer.
Owner Ryan Brooks, a third-generation leader of the business, said the decision to bring back table service has been more than a year in the making and comes after one of the most challenging periods in the restaurant’s history.
“We had to adapt, but closing was never an option,” Brooks said.
When the pandemic struck, the Brooks family was forced to rethink how the restaurant operated. They initially shifted to takeout only, then by late 2021 they were able to reopen the dining room doors with a “fast casual” buffet style. Staffing levels dropped sharply, making it impossible to maintain the large team of servers the restaurant once relied on. Switching to a buffet-only model allowed the business to stay open at a time when many restaurants were shutting their doors.
The community remained supportive during that transition.
“A lot of people were just happy we were open,” Brooks said.
Still, for many customers, the buffet lacked the personal touch that
had long defined the Brooks’ House of BarB-Q experience. For decades, the restaurant has been known for attentive service—for servers who recognize regulars, refill drinks without being asked and make families with young children feel welcome.
“Service is why you come back,” Brooks said. “Food is important, but if we have bad service, you are not coming back tomorrow.”
As staffing levels improved, Brooks began laying the groundwork for a return to table service.
Current employees are being retrained for new roles, and additional staff are being hired from the community. Catering and takeout services will continue alongside dinein operations.
In the days leading up to reopening, half of the dining room was temporarily closed to allow staff to focus on hands-on training. Brooks invited guests to help simulate real dining scenarios so servers and kitchen staff could practice timing, communication, and guest interaction.
The restaurant has also created what Brooks calls a “knowledge book,” outlining service standards and expectations, with special attention paid to families with young children. Staff are trained to anticipate needs, move efficiently and create an atmosphere
where everyone feels welcome.
“We want to give them what they need before they need it,” Brooks said. “It is training, training, training.”
The return to sitdown service also brings menu updates designed to enhance the shared dining experience. Classic favorites like strip steak, the sampler dinner, and beef and pork buns and dinners are making a comeback. They are joined by new shareable appetizers such as brisket nachos, pulled pork nachos and towering onion ring platters. Oversized soft pretzels and expanded dessert options add to the sense of occasion, while a selection of craft mocktails ensures that guests of all ages can enjoy a specialty drink.
For the Brooks family,
the transition is about more than serving food— it’s about bringing back the warmth and spirit generations have long associated with the James Beard award-winning
restaurant. On Oneonta’s east end, Brooks’ House of Bar-B-Q has been a destination for many years, drawing families, returning SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College alumni, and the support of local institutions and longtime residents.
The past several years tested Ryan Brooks’ resilience, with long workweeks and constant uncertainty. He has been determined to keep the business alive, however.
He relied on the foundation that has carried the restaurant for three generations: family.
This includes the Brooks family, the staff, and the local residents and their extended families who have supported the restaurant since 1951.
The restaurant is
continuing to hire waiters and waitresses to support the full-service dining room, Brooks said.
The March 17 reopening served as a soft launch, with a focus on service and quality rather than publicity. A larger celebration is planned for Wednesday, June 24, when Brooks’ House of Bar-B-Q will mark its 75th anniversary with live music, giveaways and a community gathering under an outdoor tent.
“We are still here because of them,” Brooks said of the Oneonta area community.
This story was created by student reporters through the OnNY Community Media Lab, a program of SUNY Oneonta and the SUNY Institute for Local News.
Photo by Dakota Keats
The iconic Brooks’ House of Bar-B-Q sign welcomes guests to the east end of Oneonta, a landmark for families and generations of diners.
Perspectives
Congratulations to Our Class C State Champions!
This week, we welcome the opportunity to escape the trials and tribulations of today’s world by highlighting the accomplishments of the Cooperstown Central School boys basketball team. The Hawkeyes defeated the defending champion Berne-Knox-Westerlo Bulldogs on Sunday, March 22, wrapping up an undefeated season for the New York State Class C championship title.
Congratulations on a job well done to the following: head coach John Lambert and assistant coaches Matt Hulbert and Dan Talbot; managers Jesse Dessano, Hayes Dickens, Kian Grady, Bode Nagelschmidt, Colton Seamon, and Ryder Whiteman; and of course to the players, Shane Bradley, Ty Burkhart, Cooper Coleman, Dylan Craig, Jackson Crisman, Brenin Dempsey, Joseph DeSanno, Beckett Grady, Christian Lawson, Benjamin Lewis, Parker McManus, Brody Murdock, Miles Nelen, Landon Seamon, and Brayden Sentz.
And while we focus here on the CCS boys basketball team, that is not to say we have forgotten the many other stunning achievements by local sports teams this winter. The Cooperstown Hawkeyes bowlers took the Section III Class C/D title last month and, soon after, the Cooperstown/Cherry Valley boys swimming team won its second Section III Class C title in three years.
Earlier this month, the Oneonta High School varsity cheerleading team won its third consecutive Section IV title and the boys basketball team were Southern Tier Athletic Conference East Champions and Section IV Class A runners-up. The Cherry Valley-Springfield boys basketball team reached the Section IV tournament this year, the Edmeston Panthers secured their first-ever Section IV Class D boys basketball championship, defeating Schenevus in the final game, and the Unatego/Franklin Spartans boys basketball team secured the 2025-26 Midstate Athletic Conference regularseason title. We apologize to any teams we have missed.
So congrats, Hawkeyes, on a job well done. And kudos to ALL our student athletes and Otsego County sports teams. You rock our world in the very best of ways. Keep up the great work!
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
“The Freeman’s Journal” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper, or on topics of general local interest. They must include the writer’s name, address, e-mail and telephone/mobile number; the opinions expressed must be the writer’s own. Hostile, offensive, factually incorrect or excessively inflammatory content will not be published. Maximum length is 300 words; however, the editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com.
Inc.
The Challenge of Compostables
Here I am, mother of the groom for the third time. And delighted to launch this youngest of my three sons and support the union with his intelligent, beautiful, charming, and kind wife-to-be.
Serving in the traditional role of the groom’s family, I hosted an “open house welcome” at my home for the invited guests— about 140—the night before the wedding. I care deeply about the environment and so I explored the use of compostable plates, napkins, forks and cups for the delicious dinner I had planned. I could have rented forks and ceramic plates, cloth napkins, and glass items, but this would have added rental costs, and fees for wait staff to collect, wash, and return the items.
Counsel Jill Ann Poulson
The story that follows is my journey to make what I believe to be a good decision to protect the environment, and the challenges I faced seeing the project through, responsibly.
Step number one was to shop for compostable materials. For about $226.00, I purchased 8-inch plates, forks, napkins and cups from Green Paper Products, a small business based in Cleveland, Ohio. According to the website, their “compostable and recyclable tableware are made from renewable plantbased or recycled materials—so every cup, plate and bag helps reduce waste and support a healthier planet.”
The forks were made from bamboo, the plates from natural fiber, the cups from corn plastic, and the paper napkins—well—from paper. These items are made in the U.S. and
shipped carbon neutral.
I like to think of myself as a smart consumer, so I read the details of the product specifications. For every single item I purchased, the fine print read “compostable in a commercial composting facility.” Well, I thought, that’s certainly not going to work in my back yard compost pile.
That brings me to step number two: finding a commercial composting facility in my community. I remained confident and committed to my search.
I called a good friend, Padraic MacLeish, director of operations for The Clark Foundation, to ask him if he knew any local commercial composting facilities. The Clark Foundation operates a private forced-air composting system at Mohican Farm and only accepts food waste from a small group of partner organizations, including The Otesaga Resort Hotel, Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, and Cooperstown Elementary School.
“Even the composting system at Mohican is only able to break down limited amounts of ‘compostable’ plates and other items like this if they are mixed with lots of other, more easily composted, materials,” MacLeish said. “Even then our material goes through a prolonged aging process after the initial compost ‘cook’ and some material will get screened out and put back in at the beginning of the process to try again.”
He allowed that “there are some pretty advanced composting ‘digester’ systems out Continued on
Columnists and Contributing Writers
Bill Bellen, Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Maria Griswold, Chris Kjolhede, Larry Malone, Cassandra Miller, Wriley Nelson, Tom Shelby, Gayane Torosyan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin
Photo by PhotoJoe Photography-Joe Harmer
by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
135 YEARS AGO
At the Gymnasium, the ladies’ classes are instructed on the afternoon of Monday, Wednesday and Friday; gentlemen’s and boys’ classes on the evenings of those days. There are about 100 members at present. The running expenses of the gymnasium must be over $2,000 a year, and all beyond the comparatively small amount received for membership tickets is met by its founder. Those who feel themselves too old to exercise in this institution, or who do not care to do so, can benefit some worthy young person by the present of a ticket, and at the same time show appreciation of a public benefit conferred upon Cooperstown. (Editor’s note: The Gymnasium referred to is the original Alfred Corning Clark Gymnasium)
March 27, 1891
85 YEARS AGO
The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union met Friday afternoon. One of the main topics of discussion was legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Morris Sheppard as a national defense measure. The country is becoming aroused and demanding that the trainees in our military camps be defended from exploitation by liquor and vice. A report was read from Texas where about 10,000 young people met and demanded dry laws. Among those attending were Mrs. Sarah Broxholm, Miss Cora Babcock, Mrs. Lera Pierce, Miss Susan Ellsworth, Mrs. J.E. Reynolds, and Mrs. Lewis Allen.
March 26, 1941
60 YEARS AGO
The scheduled filming in Cooperstown this summer of the 20th Century Fox musical production “Bloomer Girl,” has been indefinitely postponed. Richard D. Zanuck, 20th Century Fox vice-president, said casting problems plus script difficulties led to the decision to delay the film. “Bloomer Girl” will remain on the production schedule. Shirley MacLaine had been signed to star in “Bloomer Girl” and Harry Belafonte was booked for a lead role.
March 23, 1966
35 YEARS AGO
March 27, 1991
NEWS FROM THE NOTEWORTHY
Helios Celebrates Community Compassion
As spring arrives in the Catskills and Upper Susquehanna Valley, Helios Care is proud to announce a series of community events dedicated to supporting hospice and palliative care services across Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie counties. This April, the organization will honor the “heart of its mission” during National Volunteer Appreciation Month and host its signature spring fundraiser, the Daffodil Jazz Brunch, as well as many Dine Out for a Cause programs.
Honoring Our Volunteers
April marks National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time when Helios Care recognizes the dedicated individuals who provide companionship, respite, and administrative support to patients and families navigating serious illness. From veteran-to-veteran pinning ceremonies, to weekly tuck-in phone calls, to offering a comforting presence at the bedside, volunteers are the backbone of rural healthcare and hospice. We also celebrate our dedicated group of retail volunteers who staff our thrift store in Oneonta, a vital resource for unrestricted funds each year.
Helios volunteers bring a unique level of warmth and humanity to those they care for. In our rural landscape, they are often the bridge that ensures no one has to face the end of life alone. A volunteer luncheon is planned in April to celebrate more than 90 volunteers currently donating their time and talents to Helios Care.
On Saturday, April 18, Helios Care will host its most iconic annual fundraiser, the Daffodil Jazz
By MERL REAGLE
Brunch. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of over 200,000 blooming daffodils at the Franklin home of Tom Morgan, the event offers a unique “kick-off to spring.” This year’s event is dedicated to Erna Morgan McReynolds, Tom’s wife and a Helios Care board member, who passed away in 2025. Her legacy of compassion lives on in this event she loved.
• Live Music: Smooth jazz performed by local favorite, the Rob Hunt Trio.
Gourmet Cuisine: A seasonal brunch menu prepared by Chef Dee Smith Hazlett.
Silent Auction: Featuring unique items and experiences donated by local individuals and businesses.
Tickets are $70.00 for individuals and $130.00 for couples. Due to the popularity of this outdoor event, advance registration is required at helioscare.org/events.
Dine Out for a Cause: Spring Offerings
For those looking to support Helios Care while enjoying the local culinary scene, the Dine Out for a Cause initiative continues in 2026. Participating restaurants across the region will donate a portion of their proceeds on designated days to support hospice and palliative care programs. This is a true win-win-win, as community members enjoy a great meal, local restaurants see increased foot traffic, and the unrestricted funding donated helps Helios Care provide services to patients and their families throughout the three counties.
Continued on page 9
The Bothers of Invention…
Sometime in the past
Hotelero’s vacancy
“Boy, he hit that one ___!”
The “wearing down” war
Goodrich or Goodyear
An invention’s first stage, according to adventurer-statesman Alexander von Humboldt
Shortly, shortly
Van Gogh’s loss
Word with road or
20 YEARS AGO
Chris Gentile started swinging a tennis racquet when he was three years old. Recently, the CCS junior was selected by Tourney Sport USA Inc. to represent the State of New York at a tennis tournament in Hawaii. “I went to see Dave Bertram, my coach. We decided it was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Gentile said. Gentile is set to leave for Hawaii on July 23. (Ed. note: Tragically, shortly before graduation as a senior in 2007, Chris Gentile died in a one-car automobile accident).
March 24, 2006
Solution: “The Big Burnout” (March 19)
X-shaped heraldic cross
Dorothy or Sam
‘No
Kings’ Set for Saturday
ONEONTA—The CooperstownOneonta, Butternut Valley, Cherry Valley and Schoharie County chapters of Indivisible, and the Otsego County Democratic Committee, will hold a local rally and march as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protest on Saturday, March 28. It will begin on the green outside Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at noon and march up to Main Street, ending around 1:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring non-perishable food or first aid items for a donation drive to support the Veterans’ Outreach Center. The rally will include speakers and performances by local musicians Yolanda Bush, Becca Frame, and Khalil Jade and the Resistance Singers. For more information, contact CooperstownOneontaIndivisible@ gmail.com.
Lifeguard Scholarships Offered
COOPERSTOWN—The Friends of the Parks will provide $75.00 or $200.00, depending on the class taken, to enrollees in the April American Red Cross lifeguard certification classes at the Clark Sports Center. Up to 10 people will be accepted. The classes run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, April 7-10. Participants must be at least 15 years of age. The enrollment deadline is Friday, April 3. For more information, call (607) 547-2800 ext. 117 or visit clarksportscenter.com.
Lutherans Announce Events
OTSEGO COUNTY—The Otsego County Lutheran Parish announced that Holy Wednesday services on April 1 will be held at noon at Hartwick Seminary’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and at 7 p.m. at Atonement Lutheran in Oneonta. Maundy Thursday communion will be held at St. Matthew in Laurens at 7:30 a.m., at Atonement at 10 a.m., at Evangelical at noon, at Hartwick College’s Shineman Chapel at 4:30 p.m. and at St. Matthew at 6:30 p.m. Atonement will host Good Friday worship at 10 a.m., followed by Evangelical at noon, Shineman at 4:30 p.m., St. John in West Burlington at 5 p.m. and at Laurens Presbyterian Church at 7 p.m. A Holy Saturday vigil will be co-hosted at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Oneonta at 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 4. Easter Sunday services will be held at the standard worship time for each church. Evangelical Lutheran will host a potluck dinner and service to mark the Ascension at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 14.
Exhibitions Open for Entries
COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Art Association’s much-anticipated 35th Regional and 91st National Juried Art Exhibitions will be on display from May 16 to June 25 and from July 11 to August 14, respectively. The regional show is open to all New York artists, offers $2,400.00 in prizes, and will accept in-person submissions from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, May 8-9. The National Exhibition has $3,100.00 in prizes. All entries must be submitted online by Thursday, May 15. For more information or to view a prospectus, visit cooperstownart.com.
Ferrara To Speak on Erie Canal
ONEONTA—The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will host SUNY Oneonta Professor Mark Ferrara for a talk on his new book, “Raging Erie: Life and Labor Along the Erie Canal,” at noon on Saturday, April 18. He will discuss the lives of the poor and working classes along the canal corridor. The talk will be held in the new third floor ballroom at 183 Main Street and is free and open to
the public. Attendees are asked to RSVP to directormm@oneontahistory.org or (607) 432-0960 by Friday, April 17, but it is not required.
Milford Elects Mayor, Trustees
MILFORD—The Village of Milford held elections on Wednesday, March 18. Michael Strong was elected to fill a one-year mayoral vacancy with 28 write-in votes. David West won a two-year term as trustee with 30 votes. Marion Mossman received 21 write-in votes for a special one-year trustee term, defeating James Welsh’s single write-in.
Farm Day Registration Opens
NEW YORK STATE—Cornell Cooperative Extension’s highly anticipated Family Farm Day will return for its 14th year on Saturday, August 26. Farms across the state open their gates to the public, fostering agricultural awareness and direct connections between producers and consumers. Registration for farms is open through Wednesday, April 29. Information on eligibility is available at cceschoharie-otsego.org/familyfarmdayregistration. Farms that have participated in the past may sign up online; new farms should contact their county CCE coordinator for assistance.
CCS Jr.-Sr. Play Starts Thursday
COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Central School juniors and seniors will present the play “Quest! One Play To Rule Them All” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, March 26-28. It will be performed in the Sterling Auditorium at the High School. Admission is $10.00.
Dragons Make All-star Team
ONEONTA—The SUNY Oneonta women’s track and field team placed four athletes on the USTFCCCA All-Niagara Region team at the end of the NCAA Division III indoor season. This honor recognizes the top eight individuals and top eight relay teams in each event. Senior Tarryn Herman was named all-regional in the shot put and weight throw, junior Nicolette DuBose in triple jump, sophomore Jaiden Schrag, of New Berlin, in the 60m hurdles and long jump, and sophomore Natalia Sweat in the mile. Oneonta finished second in the SUNYAC Indoor Championships and will begin the outdoor season at the Ramapo College Invitational on Friday, March 27.
Artifacts Headed to NBHoF
COOPERSTOWN—The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced its acquisition of several artifacts from Team Venezuela’s historic 2026 World Baseball Classic championship. Items including MVP Maikel Garcia’s bat and closer Danny Palencia’s shoes will be displayed in the new WBC exhibit on the second floor. For more information, visit baseballhall.org.
Church Seeks Craft Vendors
RICHFIELD SPRINGS—The Church of Christ Uniting seeks craft vendors for two popular annual fairs. The 45th Annual Friendship Craft Festival will be held in Spring Park on Saturday, June 13 and the 6th Annual Fall Craft Fair will be at 587 Cullen Road on Saturday, October 3. For more information or application materials, contact friendshipcraftfestival@yahoo.com or fallcraftfair@yahoo.com, respectively.
Drama Club Presents ‘Xanadu’ MILFORD—The Milford Central School Drama Club will present the musical “Xanadu” at 7 p.m.
on Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 29. Tickets are $5.00 for students and $10.00 for general admission.
Crisman Sends CCS to States
BINGHAMTON—Senior Jackson Crisman saved the Cooperstown boys basketball season with a buzzer-beating three-point shot in the Class C semifinals on Saturday, March 21. His off-balance shot from the right side lifted the Hawkeyes to a 66-64 victory over Lyons after a back-and-forth second half. Crisman totaled 16 points and eight rebounds. Senior Miles Nelen scored a game-high 26 points and Brody Murdock added 12. Cooperstown rose to 26-0 for the season and carried on to face defending Class C state champion Berne-Knox-Westerlo in the finals.
Spay/Neuter Clinic Is Sunday
MARYLAND—Friends of the Feral will hold a spay/neuter clinic for feral cats in Maryland on Sunday, March 29. To reserve a time slot, contact (607) 242-4734. FoF aims to hold about two clinics each month throughout the warmer months. The Feral Fest ’26 fundraiser will be held at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center from 1-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 11. For more information, visit the Friends of the Feral Facebook page.
New York Gas Prices Soar
UTICA—The average price of gasoline in New York State rose nearly 25 cents to $3.86 over the week ending Monday, March 23, AAA Northeast announced. This 85-cent increase in less than a month comes as markets try to adapt to the U.S.Israeli war on Iran that has triggered the largest supply-side shock to oil production and distribution ever recorded. Much of the lost capacity will take months or years to recoup, and the White House’s release of oil from strategic reserves has had no lasting effect on prices. Demand and prices generally increase this time of year as drivers return to the road and refineries finish their annual maintenance season, but gasoline demand dropped by about half a million barrels to 8.72 million per day over the last week. Domestic crude oil inventories rose by 6.2 million barrels to 449.3 million, about one percent below the five-year average. New York’s price is 76 cents higher than this week last year. To view the full report, visit gasprices.aaa.com.
CCE Hosts IPM Workshop
COBLESKILL—Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Kelley Doolin will lead a workshop on Integrated Pest Management from 5:30-7 p.m. on Thursday, April 9. It will be simultaneously conducted at the CCE Schoharie Extension Center, 173 S. Grand Street in Cobleskill, the Madison Ag Center and virtually on Zoom. The program will provide an introduction to comprehensive pest control planning. To register, visit reg.cce.cornell. edu/peststrategy_225.
Chamber Calls for Nominations
ONEONTA—The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for the 2026 Annual Business Dinner Awards. Awards will be given for Business of the Year; Eugene A. Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award; Leadership Otsego Distinguished Alumni Award; and Volunteer of the Year. All nominees must be current chamber members. Nominations are due by April 17. Submit nominations at https://form.jotform.com/ info_info671_Chamber/annual-dinner-awardnominations.
O2K Offering New $1,000 Scholarship
COOPERSTOWN
High-school seniors are encouraged to apply for a new $1,000.00 scholarship being offered by Otsego 2000, an environmental and preservation nonprofit. The scholarship is for a graduating senior who will be pursuing a major or post-high school training connected to the mission and programs of Otsego 2000.
Otsego 2000 celebrates, protects, and enhances the environmental, agricultural, cultural, scenic, and historic significance of the greater Otsego Lake region.
“We want to support young people in our region who are pursuing college degrees or post high-school training that will help them build a stronger community here,” said Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 20000. “From traditional building trades to environmental science, agricultural science to planning and public health, we want to invest in the next generation of leaders in and near Otsego County.”
The scholarship is open to seniors at Cherry ValleySpringfield, Cooperstown, Edmeston, GilbertsvilleMt. Upton, Laurens, Milford, Morris, Mount Markham, Oneonta, Otsego Area Occupational Center BOCES, Owen D. Young, Richfield Springs, Schenevus, Worcester, and home school students in those communities. Applications, which can be found at otsego2000.org or obtained from school guidance counselors, are due by Friday, May 1.
Undefeated Coop Boys Basketball Wins State Championship
By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL
BINGHAMTON
The Cooperstown Hawkeyes brought back the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class C boys basketball state championship title after winning 52-43 over defending champion Berne-Knox-Westerlo on Sunday, March 22 at Visions Veterans Memorial Arena.
Cooperstown finished a perfect season with 27 wins and zero losses. The Hawkeyes last won the championship in 2019, also under Coach John Lambert. Some locals welcomed the championship team bus on its way home this weekend with confetti at Milford’s four corners, while the Cooperstown Fire Department’s electronic sign congratulated them.
Berne-Knox-Westerlo’s Bulldogs roared through the playoffs before reaching the final, defeating each of their opponents by more than 30 points. The Hawkeyes stopped them in their tracks, leading 1311 in the first quarter and 26-20 at the half. In the third quarter, the Bulldogs attempted a comeback by scoring 11 points to the Hawkeyes’ seven, but it wasn’t enough to make the difference. Leading by only two
points at the start of the final quarter, the Hawkeyes sealed the deal with 19 points to the Bulldogs’ 12, totaling a 52-43 victory for Cooperstown.
Cooperstown senior Miles Nelen led the team in scoring with 20 points and recorded five assists. Senior Jackson Crisman put away 13 points and eight rebounds. Senior Cooper Coleman scored 10 points and had seven rebounds, and junior Brody Murdock added seven points.
Benefiting from a first-round bye because of its perfect record, Cooperstown fought hard through the semifinals to make it to the finals. In the semifinals the day prior, Saturday, March 21, the Hawkeyes were down by a point against Lyons with mere seconds left on the clock. Crisman saved the team with a buzzerbeater three-pointer, delivering the win with a score of 66-64 to advance to the finals.
Graduating seniors on the championship team include Brenin Dempsey, Ben Lewis, Christian Lawson, Miles Nelen, Cooper Coleman and Jackson Crisman.
At right: Brody Murdock (24) takes on a pair of Bulldogs as he attempts to score.
FAM Opening for the Season Next Week
COOPERSTOWN
Adiverse lineup of exhibitions inviting guests to explore photography, American landscape painting, historic artworks, and contemporary perspectives—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Otsego Lake. That’s what visitors to Cooperstown will find at Fenimore Art Museum this year.
Opening April 1, the museum’s new season begins with “Faded Elegance: Portraits of Havana” by internationally acclaimed photographer Michael Eastman. On view through December 31, Eastman’s richly colored photographs capture the atmospheric interiors and architecture of Havana, revealing the city’s history and beauty through luminous images filled with texture, color, and nostalgia.
Art and history come together in “Pints and Paintings: Thomas Cole and Frederic Church’s Tavern Sign” (April 1–May 10). This special exhibition celebrates the 200th birthday of Hudson River School artist Frederic Church and tells the fascinating story of the Bull’s Head Tavern Paintings, believed to have been painted by both Thomas Cole and Church. Through archival research, sketches and expert analysis, the exhibition sheds light on the artistic collaboration behind this intriguing work.
Also on view this spring is “Young at Art” (April 1–May 10), showcasing imaginative works created by young regional artists and celebrating the creativity of the next generation.
Summer at Fenimore Art Museum brings two major exhibitions beginning Saturday, May 23.
“The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light” (May 23–September 7) offers a compelling look at the life and work of the celebrated photographer. Linda McCartney (1941–1998) was an exceptional photographer, known for her portraits of musicians such as The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin and The Beatles. In 1968, she became the first female photographer to have a cover photograph on
“Rolling Stone” magazine. Linda McCartney had a parallel career as a musician. She was an animal rights activist and a passionate advocate of a vegetarian lifestyle, often using her images to support the campaigns that she believed in.
The exhibition features McCartney’s photographic exploration and personal elements of her life which she came to share through photography.
Opening the same day, “In Nature’s Studio: Two Centuries of American Landscape Painting” (May 23–September 7) explores how artists have been inspired by the American landscape for more than 200 years.
From the Hudson River School to modern interpretations, the exhibition highlights the beauty and power of nature through remarkable works of art.
As autumn arrives, Fenimore Art Museum continues its exploration of the natural world with “Tranquility and Turbulence: Reflections on the Land” (September 19–December 31), examining artists’ responses to the environment within the museum’s collections
and our changing relationship with the land.
Beginning September 26, local artist Janet Munro will be featured in a fall-inspired solo show. And it’s the return of FAM’s highly anticipated Members’ Showcase, celebrating its 10th year of featuring
museum membership artwork from around the region.
Before the season wraps, the museum’s brand-new American Masterworks Gallery will open this fall.
For more information, go to fenimoreart.org.
Grants Available for Vacant Proper t ies Apply by April 27, 2026
Grants up to $50,000 or $75,000 per unit available Rental restrictions apply for 10 years
2026 Mini Grant Program
Each year, the Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District sets aside monies for the purpose of encouraging private citizens, educational institutions, non-profits, and municipalities to undertake conservation-related projects and programs. For 2026, a total of $10,000 is available for the mini grant program. Each successful grant applicant may be reimbursed for up to $1,000.
Applicants should submit a brief (no more than two pages) description of the project or program for which they are seeking support including project or program goals, a budget, an explanation of how the program or project will achieve the goals, and a description of measurable outcomes. Mini-grant awards will be paid out as reimbursements for budgeted items of projects or programs completed within 18 months of award, after submission of a close-out report, itemized invoices, and proofs of payment. Sales tax will not be reimbursed for any reason.
Applications are due no later than May 8, 2026 and award decisions will be announced at the May Board of Directors meeting.
Photo by PhotoJoe Photography-Joe Harmer
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tenure, he founded and directed the James Fenimore Cooper Society, dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the Cooperstown author.
MacDougall, a graduate of Harvard and Columbia Law School, served for 28 years in various foreign diplomatic posts for the U.S. State Department. One notable incident involving MacDougall was his role in rescuing kidnapped students in Gombe, Africa. These students were working with Jane Goodall’s chimpanzees at her research station when they were abducted by rebels. For his rescue efforts, MacDougall was awarded the U.S. State Department’s Bronze Medal. He was also committed to the Village of Cooperstown, holding positions as histo-
Herbert John Marx 1932-2026
COOPERSTOWN—
Herbert John Marx died on March 18, 2026 at the age of 93 in Cooperstown, New York, the village where he made his home over the course of nearly six decades. He is survived by his spouse, Mary—a nurse, educator, and small businesswoman—and by his three children—John, Katherine, and Ken.
rian, trustee, and member of both the Planning and Historic Preservation and Architectural Review boards. During his 15year tenure as historian, MacDougall conducted historical tours of Cooperstown, authored weekly columns in the local newspapers, and delivered numerous lectures and interviews on the history of the village.
“Hugh MacDougall influenced the school community through his participation as a local History Day contest judge and in community interviews for the Heritage Project,” said CCS Librarian Michelle Hitchcock. “He also donated a collection of James Fenimore Cooper titles to the high-school library.
“Truly, Hugh was an expert in many areas, and he was always willing to share his knowledge and insight. I am grateful to have worked with him,”
Hitchcock said. Pindar explained the essay contest project.
“After a lesson in U.S. history class on Hugh MacDougall and how he embodied civic responsibility, students will research and write about a local historical figure who had a lasting impact on the greater Cooperstown area,” Pindar said. “This person could have been a Rotarian, writer, restaurant owner, a Fenimore Farm, Baseball Hall of Fame, Clark Sports Center, or Bassett employee, service member, an architect, politician, artist, poet, scientist, doctor, etc.”
“In history class, with Ms. Snyder and Mrs. Lambert, we received the assignment of writing about a hometown hero in Cooperstown,” CCS junior Landon Seamon elaborated further. “Each student had an abundance of options to choose from. Once we chose who we
wanted to research, we were brought to the school library, where we then had to find three or more sources about our hometown heroes in books and online resources such as Newsbank.
“After the research, we then answered questions about the hometown heroes, which helped us better understand the process,” Seamon continued. “Next, we transitioned into English class—with Mrs. Schallert and Mr. Whirtley, or Mrs. Burk-Sciallo—and then drafted the actual essay, including an overview of [our subject’s life] and what made them a hometown hero.”
From there, the essays were then submitted to be judged in the Rotary competition.
Contest finalists were selected by the English teachers and moved forward to a faculty judging team. Using the
OBITUARIES
blind judging method, with no names provided for the essays, the judges selected the winner after two rounds of evaluation.
In addition to Olski, the winner, finalists included Allison Butts, Brian Zhang, Haakon Pawlowski, Kat Goldfinger, Landon Seamon, Leah Phillips, Lillian Badgley, Oliver Sczubelek, Owen Capozza, Sophia Johnson and Yousef Khedr.
Department Chairs Pindar and Sara Schallert attended the Rotary meeting with Olski and his parents, Sarah Spross and David Olski, for the presentation of the scholarship.
“One of the seven Pillars of Rotary is Education, and this essay contest based upon history certainly serves that mission,” said Rotary President William Waller.
“Civic responsibility is a special focus of Rotary, whose motto is ‘Service
Above Self.’ Service to the community has always been in the forefront of Rotary’s dedication and this award memorializes longtime Rotarian Hugh MacDougall, who embodied this Rotary mission,” Waller added. The Rotary Club of Cooperstown has a long history of supporting student studies by sponsoring international student programs and awarding scholarship grants. These scholarships are focused on vocational training and have been a Rotary commitment for many years In 2025, nine scholarships were awarded, with nursing and culinary arts leading the vocations among the awards. Past awards have included mechanics and other handson vocations, Waller said. This article was written and submitted by Cooperstown Jr./Sr. High School staff and students.
He was a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (ACC), American Heart Association (AHA) and American College of Physicians. He was elected to the ACC Board of Governors as governor for Upstate New York and served as president of the AHA New York State Affiliate and its Central New York Chapter.
Herb Marx’s service to the community was focused on the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, where he participated as a deacon, among other roles. He chaired the Cooperstown Ecumenical (Church) Council. He was also a long-standing volunteer and member of the Board of Directors of the Otsego County Conservation Association.
He was a fan and player of tennis, frequenting courts across town, and table tennis during the offseason. Given his interest in tennis and sustainability, it is perhaps not surprising that he helped facilitate
Herb Marx was born and raised in Queens, New York during the Great Depression by John William Marx and Maria Sophia Wilhelmina Ney Marx, both of whom had recently emigrated from Germany. He was educated at Andrew Jackson High School in New York, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he and Mary met in an elevator. He worked as a cardiologist, first at the University of Rochester Medical Center, before moving to Cooperstown and joining the medical staff at Bassett Medical Center in 1971 as an attending physician and its first cardiologist. His contributions included educating several generations of doctors-intraining, an effort he continued deep into his retirement, teaching physicians how to read electrocardiograms and thus diagnose heart conditions.
the recycling of tennis balls in Otsego County.
In the village, Herb Marx was a familiar sight riding his bike to and from work at the hospital, going for jogs out Lake Street north onto State Highway 80, and walking across town to his favorite view of Lake Otsego from the top of the stairs at Council Rock Park. He will be remembered by all for his winning grin. He was beloved by his daughters-in-law, who knew him simply as “Darb.”
In his wallet, Herb carried this quote by Thomas Henry Huxley: “Perhaps the most valuable result of all education is the ability to make yourself do the things you have to do when they ought to be done, whether you like it or not.”
Memorial donations can be made in Herb Marx’s name and sent to the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or via the church’s website: https://www. cooppres.org/donate.
John Francis
‘Jack’ Smith 1930-2026
COOPERSTOWN—
On the morning of St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2026, John Francis “Jack” Smith peacefully passed into eternal rest at his Pine Boulevard home. His beloved wife, Gayle, and family were at his side. He was 95.
Born August 29, 1930 at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, New Jersey, Jack was the fifth of nine children of Arthur James
and Abbie Ellen (Ogden) Smith. Growing up in a large, close-knit family was a great influence on his life and honed the quick wit and sense of humor that he was known for throughout his long life. His sense of duty to family was also strongly forged at a young age. In 1953, tragedy struck and Jack became guardian of his three teenage sisters while he was on military deferment to attend college.
After graduating from Fordham University with a BS in labor management, Jack worked for Hills Bros. as a coffee buyer, thus starting his life of travel that would lead him and his young family to Canajoharie, and eventually, Cooperstown, New York.
On September 28, 1968, Jack married Gayle, and they came to live, with their children, on Nelson Avenue in Cooperstown. After a brief stint in Highlands, New Jersey, they returned to Cooperstown in 1973 and settled at their home on Pine Boulevard. From there, Jack spent many years as plant manager in the gum and candy division of Beech-Nut and retired in 1987, having
risen to vice president of operation for PlantersLifeSavers. It became apparent that he was not yet ready for full-time golf and so ran his own consulting firm until retiring, again, in 1993. It is sometimes reported that he was the maintenance man at Overlook Bed & Breakfast, but those claims can neither be confirmed nor denied.
An avid golfer, Jack enjoyed playing at the Leatherstocking Golf Course in Cooperstown. Some of his favorite foursomes throughout the years included, among many, Paul Lambert, Ted Trossett, Howie Ryan, Frank Maloney, and Fr. John Sise. Somewhere over the years—between rounds on all 19 holes—he found time to serve as president of the Canajoharie Golf Course and chairman of the Greens Committee at Leatherstocking. He was also an avid reader and a master of crossword puzzles—pastimes carried on by his family. And he was a sports fan. He fondly, and often, recalled playing ice hockey at Madison Square Garden and was known to wager a coin or two on football games with Duke Mayhew and other friends.
Jack was a member and past president of The Mohican Club, a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 579, and member and past president of The Fort Rensselaer Club in Canajoharie.
Jack and Gayle could often be found enjoying meals around town as well as having fun times at the Cooperstown
Veterans’ Club. In recent times, they also enjoyed daily drives together through the surrounding countryside, and on the afternoon of his passing they took one final ride around Otsego Lake together.
Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Gayle, of Cooperstown; children—Abbie, Amy, Emily, Sean, Norton (Kimberly Batarse) and Veronica (and Jeffrey Harris); 11 grandchildren—Philip, Ellen, Scott (Sonya), Whitney, Allyson, Zachary, Riley, Madison, Ryan, Natalka, and James; five greatgrandchildren—Evelyn and Maximillian, Lucille, and Cora and Sullivan; his dear sister, Vera Quigley of Cooperstown; and many, many cherished nieces and nephews. He is further survived by in-laws, Gary (Helen) Shults of Canajoharie, Manly (Karen) Shults of Delhi, Sondra Failing of Fort Plain, and their families.
In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by one son, Jeffrey; siblings and their spouses: Arthur (Sue), Norton (Joan), Warren (Marguerite), James (Viola), Robert (Dottie), Mary Buckley (David), and Madeline Moss (Al); and brother-in-law Robert Quigley.
• Calling Hours: Tuesday, March 24, 46 p.m., Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home, 82 Chestnut Street • Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, March 25, 11 a.m., St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street
• The family invites you to join them for refreshments and a celebration of Jack’s life following mass in the Parish Center
• Service of Committal will take place this summer, date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial donations may be directed to Helios Care https://helioscare.org/ donate/ or Sons of the American Legion, Post 579.
Photo provided HERBERT JOHN MARX
Photo provided JOHN f RAN cis s M i TH
Helios
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Upcoming “Dine Out” dates include local favorites such as Dazzo’s Kitchen, Mel’s at 22, and the Grapevine Farm. Over 15 are scheduled thus far for 2026, so to get a full list of the participating restaurants and dates, go to the Helios Care website or follow us on Facebook.
About Helios Care
Formerly Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, Helios Care has served the region for more than 40 years, started by a dedicated group of 12 volunteers. It has grown to an organization of over 70 staff with the mission to provide patients and families with compassion, choices, and dignity through hospice, palliative care, and grief support services. For more information on events, volunteering, or care services, please visit www.helioscare.org or call (607) 432-6773.
Joan MacDonald is president and chief executive officer of Helios Care.
Murray
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there that are able to process this stuff in a timely fashion, but I’m not aware of any locally. Unfortunately, the same attributes that make something a good plate or cup or fork also make them hard to break down.”
My dear friend was unable to tell me of any other commercial composting facility that I could contact.
The Otsego County Solid Waste Department staff were very supportive of my effort but dismayed to tell me that there is not a commercial composting facility in our region. They told me I could bring household kitchen food waste, but not compostable dishware, to the Oneonta Southern Transfer Station, where operations are subbed out to Casella Waste Systems. The Southern Transfer station will accept up to six gallons of food scraps for a $1.00 fee. But my compostable dishware would not be welcome.
I asked the folks at the Southern Transfer Station where the deposited compost from Otsego County residents goes. Back in the late summer, the staff there did not do any compost processing. It was transferred to Seward Sand and Gravel outside of Oneonta, where Rob Beisler is in charge. When I called Beisler about my plan, he was pretty pessimistic about taking my food waste and the compostable material. It takes compostable materials a long time to really break down and often needs re-doing, he explained. This echoed the information from my friend, Padraic.
“Rob, I’m doing the right thing here!” I pleaded.
By the time our conversation ended, he had reluctantly agreed.
I couldn’t bring the compostables and food waste to his site in the back of my car in bags, though. I would have to
rent a dumpster from a vendor that knew how to transport compost to his site. Okay, I thought, I have rented a dumpster before for garage cleaning projects, so that might work.
As the date of the wedding party drew near, Beisler and Seward Sand and Gravel were my only hope. I called him again to get the details of how I would organize the dumpster delivery to him.
Beisler uses Casella Waste Systems, based in Rutland, Vermont, to bring materials to his composter.
Okay, I thought, we are close to the end of this journey. I looked up Casella Waste Systems. Their website says, “We create value by managing society’s waste and transforming that waste into new resources.” I called them and talked to a very supportive staff person who told me I could rent a dumpster for my compostables and have it brought to Seward. I affirmed that I did not need the dumpster for any period of time. I would “greet” the dumpster as it arrived by truck in my driveway. No need, I said, to unload the dumpster. Just drive into my driveway, and I will throw the bags of compost onto the dumpster and the truck with dumpster could drive away.
The Casella staff member tried to keep my spirits up, but they were promptly trashed. First, I would need a special type of dumpster—one that didn’t leak on the roads. The cost was several hundred dollars, mostly because of the uniqueness of my need. Given my budget, this would not work.
Madeleine Zenir to the rescue—or close to the rescue. Zenir, a young and intelligent entrepreneur, started a business that collected kitchen waste from Cooperstown doorways. Later she sponsored a compost bin at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market for market goers and others to deposit their household compost. Because she was folding her business, she was unable to take my material.
Zenir connected me with the folks at Worms Waste Not LLC, an Oneonta-based business created and run by part-
ners Meghan Cassidy and Rachel Frick Cardelle. Their website reports, “Our goal is to reduce landfill while helping turn food scraps into black soil gold that supports our local farming and gardening communities. In our commitment to sustainability, let us handle your compost, reduce your waste, and nourish the earth—making Oneonta greener, one pickup at a time.”
When I contacted WWN to see if they could help me out with my compostable materials, they were supportive.
“First of all, thank you so much for pursuing this!” and then, perhaps predictably, “It depends.”
They asked me to send a link to the products I had purchased to review what they were made of. At first they were a bit hesitant, because the farm where they take their food scraps, Two Fox Farm in Hartwick, can only manage a very minimal amount of some types of compostable materials. However, one of the WWN owners was already planning a trip out of town to an area with a commercial composting facility. “Great news!” they replied, much to my delight and amazement. “We will be working with a commercial composting facility to make sure we can compost all the items for your event. “You won’t have to worry about separating out food scraps and dining wear; they can all go in the same bin.”
They offered 13gallon bins in either white, black or grey— with their handsome “Worms Waste Not” logo branding. The bins are roughly the same size as typical kitchen trash bins, and they blended seamlessly in my party space. Worms
SECURITY/SAFETY GUARD FULL-TIME, YEAR ROUND POSITION
The workday includes using computer-based monitoring systems, walking extensive museum grounds, completing incident reports, and troubleshooting potential hazards. Applicants must have a clean driving license, be able to walk considerable distances in all weather conditions and have open availability including weekends and holidays. We provide training, certification, and an excellent benefit package, including health and dental insurance, paid holidays, vacation, and sick pay. $18-$21/hr. based on experience. These positions are for 2nd and 3rd shift.
To apply, contact Mary Myers at 607-547-1462 or download an application from our website fenimoreart.org or fenimorefarm.org and email to hr@fenimoreart.org.
Waste Not would drop off the bins pre-event and pick up post-event at my convenience for a fee of $50.00 per bin. Finally, I was cooking with gas—or maybe compost.
I learned a few things along the way. If you opt not to use real dishware, choose your composta-
bles carefully. Know that you won’t be able to use your back yard compost pile for the compostables. If you dispose of compostables in the trash, they will end up in a landfill, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, wasting resources, and taking up valuable space in landfills. If you put compostables in a recycling bin, the result is a contaminated recycling stream, which will likely end up in a landfill. Know that you will need to find a way to send your compostables—directly or indirectly—to a commercial composting facility.
And while I got lucky that WWN could address my needs for this event, they explained that they are not set up to always take compostables, as the
commercial composting facility is too far to make it feasible on a regular basis. The party was terrific—as was the lovely wedding the next day— and I felt good about my environment-friendly choices. Sticking to them was a long and interesting journey, but I am glad I did it. I am writing this for anyone who wishes to do something similar and is looking for access to an appropriate composting facility.
Next project: community effort to get a commercial composting facility in Otsego County for public disposal of compostables.
Maureen Murray is a member of the Cooperstown Food Pantry Board of Directors.
Photo provided
Maureen Murray purchased her compostable and recyclable tableware from Ohio-based Green Paper Products. The
LegaL nOtice
NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF Fordview Estates LLC
Under Section 203 of the Limited Liabilitiy Company Law.
1. The name of the limited liability company is Fordview Estates LLC.
2. Articles of Organization of Fordview Estates LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on November 6, 2025.
3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.
4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is 551 Salt Springville Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.
5. The Secretary of state is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: Fordview Estates LLC, 551 Salt Springville Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.
6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF YRS DAYS CLASSICAL MUSIC, LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on February 16, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 27 Fair Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF LEATHERSTOCKING SCUBA LLC.
Filed with SSNY on 02/06/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 2963 STATE
HIGHWAY 166, ROSEBOOM, NY 13450.
Purpose: Any Lawful.
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF Butler Auto Rental, LLC
Art. of Org. filed with New York Sec’y of State (SSNY) on February 6, 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 268 State Highway 7, Riverside, Sidney, NY 13838.
Purpose: any lawful activity.
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF CTLO REAL ESTATE, LLC.
Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 2/4/2026.
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 him/her to: The LLC, 38 Sylvan St., PO Box 103, Gilbertsville, NY 13776.
The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.
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NOTICE OF ORGANIZATION OF 10 Youngman Ave, LLC under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law.
1. The name of the limited liability company is 10 Youngman Ave, LLC.
2. Articles of Organization of 10 Youngman Ave, LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on December 1, 2025.
3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.
4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 1027 South Gilboa Road, Gilboa, NY 12076.
5. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 10 Youngman Ave, LLC, 1027 South Gilboa Road, Gilboa, NY 12076.
6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities. 6LegalApr.2
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF NYNH LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on: 2/18/2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC: 507 Moody Rd., Pike, NH 03780. Purpose: any lawful act under New York LLC law. 6LegalApr.2
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF FAMILY MEETING, LLC.
Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/05/2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 26500 W. Agoura Rd., Ste. 211, Calabasas, CA 91302. Purpose: any lawful activities. 6LegalApr.2
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF CF Satriano Excavating LLC
Art. of Org. filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) 2/16/2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail a copy of process to 148 Fred Field Road, Hartwick, NY 13348. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalApr.2
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF Moonlight Manor Enterprises LLC.
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/28/2026.
Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Moonlight Manor Enterprises LLC: 21 Country Club Road, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
6LegalApr.2
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF
Lady Mystery and Quantum Key, LLC
filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on February 23, 2026. Office location is Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to PO Box 1348, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful activity.
6LegalApr.9
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF BUTTERNUT HANDYMAN SERVICE LLC
Arts of Org. filed SSNY 2/16/2026. Otsego Co. SSNY design. agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE ST., # 112, ALBANY, NY, 12207. General Purpose.
6LegalApr.9
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STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREmE COURT COUNTY OF OTSEGO
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, vs.
Any unknown heirs to the Estate of CURTNER B. AKIN A/K/A CURTNER AKIN next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest, as well as the respective heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, dis-
tributees, grantees, assignees, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff; EDWARD S. AKIN if living, and if he be dead, his respective heirsat-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises; CURTNER B AKIN III; ROBBIN AKIN HAYES; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; and “JOHN DOE” and “MARY DOE,” (Said names being fictitious, it being the intention of plaintiff to designate any and all occupants, tenants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein.) Defendants.
Filed: 12/18/2025 Index No.: EF2025-404
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 2388 County Highway 11 Mount Vision, (Town of Hartwick) NY 13810
TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is for the foreclosure of: Mortgage bearing the date of July 20, 2004, executed by Jacqueline Jones, Curtner Akin to Fleet National Bank, principally located in Rhode Island to secure the sum of $69,000.00, and interest, and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Otsego County on September 9, 2004 in Book: 1364 Page: 18. Bank of America N.A. is successor by merger to Fleet National Bank. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the Mortgaged Premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
Plaintiff designates Otsego County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the County in which the Mortgaged Premises is situated.
Section: 176.00 Block: 1 Lot: 44.00 DATED: December 2, 2025 Rochester, New York
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOmE
If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the Mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your Mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
BY:
Kathryn E. Assini, Esq. DAVIDSON FINK LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd., Ste. 200 Rochester, New York 14618 Tel: (585) 7608218
WE ARE ATTEmPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORmATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
SCHEDULE A LEGAL DESCRIPTION All that tract, piece or parcel of land situate in the Town of Hartwick, County of Otsego and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: Commencing in the center of the intersection of the South Hartwick Crossing Highway with Otsego County Highway #11, opposite pole #91 1/2 and proceeding thence northerly along the center of said Otsego County Highway #11 a distance of 190 feet to a point; thence easterly through an iron pipe driven in the ground a distance of 95 feet to lands of Robert Derr, thence southerly along lands of Derr to the center of the South Hartwick Crossing Highway, or Otsego County Highway #11R; thence westerly along the center of said South Hartwick Crossing Highway a distance of 85 feet to the point or place of beginning. 4LegalMar.26
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NOTICE OF QUALIFICATION OF Poznyak & Co. LLC.
Authority filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 01/12/2026. Office location: Otsego County. LLC formed in Texas (TX) on 05/23/2025. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 167 County Highway 53, Richfield Springs, NY 13439, USA. TX address of LLC: 616 Cameron Way, Azle, TX 76020, USA. Certificate of Formation filed with TX Secy of State, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalApr.9
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NOTICE OF FORmATION OF Creating Lasting Memories, LLC filed with New York Sec’y of State (SSNY) on 02/25/2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom
process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 145 Cty. Hwy. 35A, Maryland, NY 12116. Purpose: To engage in any and all business activities and business activities permitted under NYS Law. 6LegalApr.9
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REQUESTS FOR BIDS
Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), pursuant to New York General Municipal Law 103 and on behalf of the project Landowner, will receive sealed bids for Irrigation Pipeline (430) and Irrigation Reservoir (436) regarding Project #08-37-1 funded through NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets Climate Resilient Farming Grant. The successful bidder must have technical knowledge and experience with the Irrigation System Microirrigation BMPs to be installed. Said BMPs pertinent to this bid include
• Irrigation Pipeline o 1 – ¼’’ HDPE, 500 ft. o 1’’ Header Pipe, 473 ft. o 0.260 GPH Drip tape, 18,911 ft.
• 120 Mesh Cleanable Filter matching manufacturer’s drip tape specifications, 1 unit
Attendance by interested contractors or their representatives at the site showing at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 3/31/2026, will be MANDATORY and by registration only, and failure to do so will result in an automatic disqualification. Contact Christos Galanopoulos (see below) by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 3/27/2026 to register for the site showing.
The project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder in compliance with District Procurement Policy. Bid packets will be distributed at the site showing. Bids shall be returned sealed and labeled “Irrigation System Microirrigation CRF Project 08-37-1” and delivered in person, by USPS, or by commercial carrier to the Landowner in care of Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District, 967 County Highway 33, Cooperstown NY 13326. Email or electronic bid submissions will NOT be accepted. The project will
be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, with both the engineer and the landowner reserving the right to reject any or all bids. Bids will be received until 4 p.m. Tuesday, 4/21/2026. Bids will be opened at the SWCD offices (967 County Hwy 33 Cooperstown NY 13326) on Tuesday, 4/22/2026 at 10 a.m.
Additional information may be obtained from District Manager, Christos Galanopoulos, at Christos@otsegosoilandwater.com or requested by phone at 607-5478337 ext. 4. 3LegalMar.26
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REQUESTS FOR BIDS
Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), pursuant to New York General Municipal Law 103 and on behalf of the project Landowner, will receive sealed bids for a Pumping Plant (533) regarding Project #08-37-1 funded through NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets Climate Resilient Farming Grant. The successful bidder must have technical knowledge and experience with the installation of pumping systems into water wells. Said BMPs pertinent to this bid include
• Solar Pumping System 5 gpm@ 482ft TDH with enough solar to run the maximum solar hours per day
Attendance by interested contractors or their representatives at the site showing at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 3/31/2026, will be MANDATORY and by registration only, and failure to do so will result in an automatic disqualification. Contact Christos Galanopoulos (see below) by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 3/27/2026 to register for the site showing.
The project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder in compliance with District Procurement Policy. Bid packets will be distributed at the site showing. Bids shall be returned sealed and labeled “Solar Pumping System CRF Project 08-37-1” and delivered in person, by USPS, or by commercial carrier to the Landowner in care of Otsego County Soil and Water Conserva continued
Hartwick
Continued from page 1
us,” Temple said, offering to assist with provisions for an eventual solar law.
Hurel Johnson, a senior project manager for SolAmerica, added it was a “great idea to get the house in order” ahead of any project. At the same time, “there is a lot of misinformation out there about solar projects.” The moratorium would offer “an opportunity to address those concerns.”
Johnson and Temple told AllOtsego they plan to share information and engage in dialogue with residents near the proposed 12.8-acre project, which is located on a field near the intersection of Greenough Road and Dobbs Hill Road.
Residents speaking in opposition to the proposal
from pg. 10 tion District, 967 County Highway 33, Cooperstown NY 13326. Email or electronic bid submissions will NOT be accepted.
The project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, with both the engineer and the landowner reserving the right to reject any or all bids. Bids will be received until 4 p.m. Tuesday, 4/21/2026. Bids will be opened at the SWCD offices (967 County Hwy 33 Cooperstown NY 13326) on Tuesday, 4/22/2026 at 10 a.m.
Additional information may be obtained from District Manager, Christos Galanopoulos, at Christos@otsegosoilandwater.com or requested by phone at 607-5478337 ext. 4. 3LegalMar.26
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REQUESTS FOR BIDS
Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), pursuant to New York General Municipal Law 103 and on behalf of the project Landowner, will receive sealed bids for a Roof Runoff Structure BMP (558) regarding Project #08-37-1 funded through NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets Climate Resilient Farming Grant. The successful bidder must have technical knowledge and experience with the Roof Runoff Structure BMP to be installed. Said BMPs pertinent to this bid must comply to both State and Federal Standards and include
• Roof Runoff Structure (558)
and in support of the moratorium expressed fear of negative environmental impacts, noise, physical appearance, and insufficient information.
“We’re just about a quarter mile down from the project,” Bob Birch said.
Saying the project would be in “the middle of a residential development,” Birch said there was not “any amount of tinkering” SolAmerica could do to address its proximity to residential properties.
“This project could probably be perfectly good for some other location in the town,” Birch said.
The project has not yet reached a stage for environmental review. Its electricity would contribute about 2 MW to the NYSEG grid, according to SolAmerica.
Attendance by interested contractors or their representatives at the site showing at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 3/31/2026, will be MANDATORY and by registration only, and failure to do so will result in an automatic disqualification. Contact Christos Galanopoulos (see below) by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 3/27/2026 to register for the site showing.
The project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder in compliance with District Procurement Policy. Bid packets will be distributed at the site showing. Bids shall be returned sealed and labeled “Roof Runoff Structure CRF Project 08-371” and delivered in person, by USPS, or by commercial carrier to the Landowner in care of Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District, 967 County Highway 33, Cooperstown NY 13326. Email or electronic bid submissions will NOT be accepted. The project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, with both the engineer and the landowner reserving the right to reject any or all bids. Bids will be received until 4 p.m. Tuesday, 4/21/2026. Bids will be opened at the SWCD offices (967 County Hwy 33 Cooperstown NY 13326) on Tuesday, 4/22/2026 at 10 a.m.
Additional information may be obtained from District Manager, Christos Galanopoulos, at Christos@otsegosoilandwater.com or requested by phone at 607-5478337 ext. 4. 3LegalMar.26
Temple told AllOtsego project locations are chosen based on a range of factors, including proximity to electricity substations, flat land and power company specifications.
“If we do approve this tonight, we have six months,”
Councilmember Bryan LoRusso said shortly before the vote on
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Hemlock Hill Homestead LLC filed 2/26/2026. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 706 County Highway 17, New Berlin, NY 13411. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalApr.16
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
NAME: 853 HOOSE RD. LLC
Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on JANUARY 30, 2026. Office location: OTSEGO County SSNY has been designated as agent of 853 HOOSE RD. LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 853 HOOSE RD. LLC, 853 Hoose Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. For any lawful purpose.
6LegalApr.16
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Pasquale Enterprises LLC.
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/25/26. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated
the moratorium. “Six months is not a long time in government banter.”
“And we have to be doing our due diligence on our homework,” Town Supervisor Cody Moore added.
“I feel like the moratorium is going to give us that time to come up with the questions that we need to be asking,” Councilmember
LEGALS
as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 568 Co. Hwy. 25 Richfield Springs, NY. Purpose: any lawful activity.
6LegalApr.23
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NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids will be received as set forth in instructions to bidders until 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at the NYSDOT, Office of Contract Management, 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 https://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 5% 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 nondesignated persons or other involved Agencies will be considered a serious matter and may result in disqualification. Contact Robert Kitchen (518) 457-2124.
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/M/WBE’s and SDVOBs.
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 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 ensure 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 09: New York State Department of Transportation 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY, 13901 D265765, PIN 9CWS01, FA Proj , Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Sullivan, Tioga Cos., HIGHWAY SIGN INSTALLATIONVarious Locations, Bid Deposit: 5% of Bid (~ $200,000.00), Goals: DBE: 0.00% 2LegalMar.26
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JoAnn Gardner later said. “I’m all in for the moratorium.”
Councilmember Tom Murphy said he looked forward to further education on the issue.
“Hopefully we’ll go back and develop a plan on when we can educate ourselves in the next six months,” Murphy commented.
The SolAmerica pro-
ject comes at a time when electricity costs have significantly increased for many utility ratepayers, and when NYSEG is seeking a rate hike. Then came the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran and blockages to the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil costs to increase sharply.
Johnson told AllOtsego one of the advantages of solar energy is that it is “insensitive to geopolitical risk.” He said rising electricity costs are a result of insufficient supply for increasing demand, including new homes, data centers, electric vehicles and other uses. Solar can be a solution, Johnson said.
Johnson said an engineering firm will develop more specific plans to present in the eventual application for the project.
6LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF ORgANIzATION OF
SunnySide 217 LLC under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law.
1. The name of the limited liability company is SunnySide 217 LLC.
2. Articles of Organization of SunnySide 217 LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on March 13, 2026.
3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.
4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 217 County Highway 38A, Richmondville, NY 12149.
5. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: SunnySide 217 LLC, 217 County Highway 38A, Richmondville, NY 12149.
6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities. 6LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Fonda Construction LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/6/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 20 Depot St., Unadilla, NY 13849. Purpose: any lawful act.
SCE MANAGEMENT, LLC,
Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/09/2026. Office loc: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 49 Main St., E. Worcester, NY 12064. Reg Agent: Stephen Attard, 716 Cape Horn Rd., Stamford, NY 12167. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. 6LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF ORgANIzATION OF SHEREEN MORKEH LLC
Articles of Organization were filed with the New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on February 23, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: The LLC, 10 Fernleigh Dr., Apt. A7, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: all lawful purposes. 6LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF ORgANIzATIONAL MEETINg AND BUDgET HEARINg FOR 2026-2027 FISCAL YEAR
BUDgET FOR THE VILLAgE OF COOPERSTOWN
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown will
conduct the Village of Cooperstown Organizational Meeting for the 2026-27 Village year in the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York on Monday, April 6, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. and will also hold a Public Hearing at 6:00 p.m. that evening or as soon thereafter as can be heard for the purpose of hearing public comment on the proposed 2026-27 Tentative Budget. The Village of Cooperstown encourages comments regarding the budget to be mailed or emailed to the Village Clerk at the contact information below. Copies of the budget are available in the Village Office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, and can be obtained during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. or it can be viewed on the Village website at www.cooperstownny.gov
Any resident of the Village of Cooperstown is entitled to be heard upon said proposed budget at such public hearing. Disabled citizens, who require assistance in attending said public hearing, or in furnishing comments or suggestions, should contact the Village Clerk’s Office at (607) 547-2411 to request assistance.
Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.gov
Dated: March 28, 2026 2LegalApr.2
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Photo by Eric Santomauro-Stenzel
The Town of Hartwick board heard from both residents and a solar developer before passing a six month solar moratorium on Friday, March 20.
►Fri., March 27
EASTER Last day to register for Easter cookie class. Fees apply; registration required. Held at 5 p.m. on 4/2. The Green Giraffe, 179 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 3693234.
BOOK CLUB Read “As I Lay Dying” by William Faulkner and discuss with the group as part of the Banned and Challenged Authors Series. Held at 4 p.m. on 4/9. Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5478344.
SALE 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. End-of-Season Sale. $1 bag sale. Bags provided by the shop. Jewelry will be $1 and not included in the bag sale. Helios Care Thrift Shop and Boutique. Price Chopper Plaza, 5626 State Highway 7, Oneonta. (607) 432-5335.
ART 10-11 a.m. “Art Class for Homeschoolers.” Open to grades 6-8. Registration required. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309.
ARTS CAREERS
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “What the Hell is Next? An Arts Career Day.” Panel discussion with professors, staff and alumni moderated by students to answer burning questions of arts majors. Followed by professional development workshop, then a student town hall. Galleries at SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. Sarah.Simpson@oneonta. edu.
TAXES 4:30-630 p.m.
“Free Tax Preparation.”
Get taxes prepared and filed free of charge by IRS-certified volunteers. Laurens Central School, 55 Main Street, Laurens. (607) 432-2050 ext. 1120.
QUILTING 5 p.m.
“Friday Night Delights: Make a Tote Using Old Jeans.” A fun project that can be completed in one session. Series held the
Things To Do In and Around Otsego County
last Friday of each month. Fees apply; registration required. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 441-3111.
DINNER 5-7 p.m.
Fried Fish Dinner. Fees apply. Open to the public. American Legion Post 259, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.
WORKSHOP 5 p.m.
“Kids Class! Create Your Own Bouquet with Bella.” Fees apply; registration required. Main View Gallery and Studio, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890.
ART 6-8 p.m. “DropIn Art Night.” Create artist trading cards or get crafty with provided materials. Donations accepted. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta.
EASTER 6 p.m. “The Living Stations of the Cross.” Portrayed by the youth of the church. Followed by soup and salad. All welcome. St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Cooperstown, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-2213.
CONCERT 7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m. “Yolanda Bush and The Cool Water Collective.” Tickets required. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
THEATER 7 p.m.
“Quest! One Play To Rule Them All.” Cooperstown Junior/Senior Play. Tickets required. Also showing 3/28. NJ Sterling Auditorium, Cooperstown High School, 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8181.
THEATER 7 p.m.
“Xanadu the Musical.” Presented by the Milford Central School Drama Club. Tickets required. Also showing at 7 p.m. on 3/28 and at 2 p.m. on 3/29. Milford School Performing Arts Theatre, 42 West Main Street, Milford. (607) 437-9153.
Time OuT OTsegO
Things To Do In and Around Otsego County
►Sat., March 28
TAXES 9 a.m. “VITA
Free Tax Preparation and Filing.” Get taxes prepared and filed free of charge by IRS-certified volunteers. By appointment only. Held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and at 9 a.m. on Saturdays. First Floor Lobby, Alumni Hall, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 436-2171.
PROTEST 10 a.m.
“No Kings III Cherry Valley NY.” Chanting, dancing and singing in the streets with signs. Free. Held at the corner of Main and Alden streets, Cherry Valley.
PROTEST 10 a.m.
“No Kings Benefit Train Ride.” Tickets required. Proceeds benefit local charitable organizations helping our immigrant population in Central New York. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 167 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.
BEEKEEPING 10 a.m. “Intro to Beekeeping.” Presented by Tim Gargash. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
EASTER 10 a.m. to noon. “Breakfast with the Easter Bunny.” Photos, crafts, raffles and face painting by free-will donation to support the West Edmeston Volunteer Fire Department. Held at the First Baptist Church of West Edmeston, 134 West Edmeston Road, West Edmeston. (315) 855-4404.
TAXES 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Free Tax Preparation.” Get taxes prepared and filed free of charge by IRS-certified volunteers. Held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays through 4/11. Oneonta Veterans Club, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-4338.
FESTIVAL 10 a.m. to
2 p.m. “Paintfest: Space.” Presented by Oneonta World of Learning. Foxcare Center, 1 Foxcare Drive, Oneonta. PLANETARIUM Family-friendly shows open to the public. Fees apply. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 436-2011.
• 10:30 a.m. “Messengers of Time and Space.”
• 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.”
SELF CARE 11 a.m.
“Pause: A Women’s Self Care Event.” Free event featuring massages, book swap, local shopping, creative fun, professional photographer and more. Cooperstown Coworks, 6 Doubleday Court, Cooperstown.
LEGO CLUB 11 a.m. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Highway 11, Hartwick. (607) 2936600.
EXERCISE Noon.
“Let’s Move: Come Play Capoeira.” Unique Brazilian practice that blends martial arts, dance, music and culture. All welcome. Held each Saturday. Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6600.
PROTEST Noon.
“No Kings 3.” Rally and march up Oneonta’s Main Street. Organized by CooperstownOneonta Indivisible. Starts at the field adjacent to the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta.
MARKET
12:30-3:30 p.m. “The Really, Really, Free Market!” Take what you need, bring what you can. Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 4323491.
EASTER 1-3 p.m.
“The Great Egg-Stravaganza.” Free for ages 12 and under. Egg hunt, games, crafts, Easter Bunny, “Journey to the Cross” experience, face painting and more. Held rain or shine. Connect Church, 4354 State Highway 80, Hartwick. (844) 216-0788.
WORKSHOP 1-3 p.m.
“Paint Your Own Fields and Fireflies with Allysia.” Fees apply; registration required. Main View Gallery and Studio, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890.
POTTERY 1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters work on personal projects. No instruction provided. Fees apply. Held 1:30-4:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Thursday. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org.
FASHION 2 p.m.
Vintage Fashion Show by Everything Bridal. The Green Giraffe, 179 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-3234.
ERIE CANAL—2 p.m.
“Erie Canal Symposium.” Featuring local historians and Erie Canal experts. The Arkell Museum and Canajoharie Library, 2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie. (518) 673-2314 ext. 106.
DANCE 2-4 p.m.
“Body and Soul Dance.”
Weekly gathering exploring the possibilities of dance. Includes warm-up, improv and group choreography to be performed with monthly drum circle. Admission by donation to support food programs. Held each Saturday. First Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, 296 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 287-3888.
DINNER 4-6 p.m.
“Free Community Dinner.” Held 4th Saturday of each month. Church of Christ Uniting, 22 Church Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-1553.
DINNER 4-6 p.m.
Lasagna Dinner. Take-out only. Fees apply. United Methodist Church of Cherry Valley, 84 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643255.
CONCERT 7 p.m.; doors at 6 p.m. “The Music of Journey and REO Speedwagon as Performed by The Idol Kings.” Tickets required. Bettiol Theater, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.
OPEN MIC 7-9 p.m.
“Coffee House.” Singers, writers, musicians and more are invited to share works. 10-20 minute slots. Light refreshments available. Free, open to public. Held each 4th Saturday of the month. Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church, 128 Church Street, Schuyler Lake. (315) 858-2523.
►Sun., March 29
SUGARING OFF SUNDAYS 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring a pancake breakfast, activities, demonstrations of maple syrup making and more. Fees apply. Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.
CASUAL TEA HOUR
11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held Sundays. The Sugar Beat, 281 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 2674374.
MEDITATION 11 a.m.
“Sundays at Samye: A Morning of Practice and Study.” Meditation, study and discussion. Samye New York, 412 Glimmerglen Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5051.
LIVE MUSIC 1-3 p.m.
“Sunday Sessions with Reyna and The Rustics.” The Gatehouse, 129 Main
Street, Morris. (607) 2854111.
PERFORMANCE
4 p.m. “SUNY Oneonta Hip-Hop and R&B Collective.” All ages welcome. Tickets required. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
►Mon., March 30
STORY TIME 9:30 a.m. Staff share stories, activities and play. Held Mondays through Thursdays. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980. WORSHIP “Holy Monday.” Individual confession and forgiveness. • 10 a.m. to noon. St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 125 Main Street, Laurens. • 1-3 p.m. St. John Lutheran Church, Burlington Flats.
CONNECTIONS 10:15 a.m. to noon. Chess with Pete Mateunas. Learn the game in a one-on-one setting. Held at 10:15 a.m. each Monday. Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.
SENIOR MEALS Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal MondayFriday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of loaded baked potato soup, turkey sandwich, wax beans and cupcakes. (607) 547-6454. • 11:30 a.m. Each Monday-Friday. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. • Noon. Each Monday and Wednesday. Cherry Valley Facilities Corporation Café, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. YOUTH 1 p.m. “Homeschool Hangout.” Held each Monday. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
CONNECTIONS 1 p.m. “The Dirt on Composting.” Presented by Tracy Roberts. A discussion on the value of composting, how to reduce the load on the waste stream, and why “compostable” and biodegradable products are not all they claim to be. Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.
OPEN HOUSE 5-7 p.m. Schenevus Central School Fitness Center Open House. Use the gym entrance and follow the signs. Schenevus Central School, 159 Main Street, Schenevus. (607) 6385881.
TAXES 6-8 p.m. “Free Tax Preparation.” Get taxes prepared and filed free of charge by IRScertified volunteers. Held from 6-8 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays through 4/15 (except on 3/16 and 3/17). 2nd Floor, Golisano Hall, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. (607) 4314338.
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tueS., March 31
COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS 8-9 a.m. Local community members gather to chat about what’s happening around Oneonta. Held each Tuesday. Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6600.
COMMUNITY HIKE
9:45 a.m. Hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at Whaupaunaucau State Forest, Norwich. (607) 431-8010.
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Visit allotsego.com/ otsego-county-events-calendar/ for the full calendar