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By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL COOPERSTOWN
At the Cooperstown Central School District board meeting on Wednesday, April 22, the Cooperstown Faculty Association, the union representing regular full-time, part-time, probationary, and tenured teachers, wanted to make a statement. When union co-president and decades-long teacher Rebecca Burk-Sciallo rose to speak during public comment, over a dozen other faculty wearing black
shirts with orange text reading “Cooperstown Faculty Association” rose beside her. The move reflects a continued escalation arc, where for months now CFA members have taken to public comment to express concerns about district practices.
“We want to begin by acknowledging the Board of Education and the work you do to support our students, staff and the future of CCS,” Burk-Sciallo said. “Over the past year, the CFA has consistently communicated openly and transparently serious concerns regarding
Continued on page 8
By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL
COOPERSTOWN
The Cooperstown Central School District has proposed a 4.7 percent increase for its 20262027 budget, with a 2.7 percent tax increase. The deficit budget will draw on the district’s reserves, with district officials saying rising costs are outstripping the district’s current ability to raise revenue or make cuts. The budget increase primarily comes from a 17.85 percent increase—$926,252.00—in the cost of benefits, mainly health insurance, under existing contractual obligations.
The total proposed budget is $24,877,283.00. Last year’s adopted budget was $23,760,273.00.
The board unanimously approved the budget to go to the public for a vote on Tuesday, May 19. A public information hearing will be held on Monday, May 11 at 6 p.m. in the Junior-Senior High School library.
“I’m glad that over the past few years, the district has carefully managed its finances and built up a rainy day fund,” School Board President Pete Iorizzo said after a budget presentation at the Wednesday, April 22 board meeting. “But the bad news is it is now raining, and the forecast doesn’t look so hot for the next little while.”
District Business Manager Elizabeth Rickard presented details of the budget, which were devel-
►CHERRY VALLEY SPRINGS INTO SUMMER, page 2
►PERFORMING ARTS AT THE B SIDE, page 3
►THE AMERICAN DREAM, EXPLORED, page 4
►COOP CONCERTS: IT’S A WRAP! page 5
►AREA NEWS IN BRIEF, page 6
►CONCERT HELPS FUND CENTER, page 7
►LWVCA ANNOUNCES CCS BOARD DEBATE, page 7



Cooperstown Central School Business
Wednesday, April 22 school board meeting.
oped over months of collaboration between the district office and school board Facility and Finance Committee members Chris Franck and William Streck.
Rickard said that similar to the past, 80 percent of district costs are people related.
“Health plan costs are rising. Workers comp is up 37 percent. Debt service and transportation have stayed stable, as has general services, which
is down slightly,” Rickard said. “Fixed costs per student are high and continue to rise with declining enrollment.”
She added that BOCES services and utility costs also increased by 11 percent each.
“These increases are being offset by cost reductions: not filling six vacancies for approximately $600,000.00; we’re not replacing certain vehicles
Continued on page 11


By MICHAEL CASTRACANE III
SUNY Institute for Local News
ONEONTA
The Oneonta High School varsity girls softball team capped a strong showing on April 16 by winning the 35th Sidney Federal Credit Union Softball Tournament, defeating both Norwich and Sidney to claim the tournament title.
The Yellowjackets opened the day with a 4-0 victory over the Norwich Purple Tornadoes at the Cooperstown All Star Village fields in Oneonta. They then carried that momentum into the championship game, where they rolled past the Sidney Sabers 13-2 to secure the 2026 SFCU Tournament crown.
In the opening-round win against Norwich, pitcher Carley Mistler delivered a dominant performance in the circle, setting the tone early in the shutout. Mistler worked efficiently through the lineup, mixing her pitches well and keeping Norwich hitters off balance. Norwich’s Kira Quattrocchi matched Mistler early, and
Continued on page 11

Historic Cherry Valley Businesses are hard at work planning for this year’s festivities during Memorial Day Weekend, May 2325. The “Spring into Summer Festival” is a familyfriendly event that celebrates the beginning of the summer season.
On Saturday and Sunday, May 23 and 24, the village will host a bevy of vendors, service organizations and food trucks set up in and around the parking lot in the middle of town. There will be live music from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday at the gazebo in the middle of the village, led by Elizabeth Graham (from Pink Squirrel at 4 Main Street).
Other special events during this Spring into Summer weekend include a pancake breakfast at the Firehouse (11 Railroad Avenue) on Saturday, May 23 from 8-11 a.m., run by the Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary. They will provide some delivery. On Sunday, May 24, St. Thomas Catholic Church will be running a fundraising Basket Raffle at the Old School (2 Genesee Street). The preview runs from 2-4 p.m. with free food and activities, and the raffle starts at 4 p.m. And don’t forget that there will also be townwide garage sales all weekend, coordinated by the W-H-S American Legion. Be sure to visit their own sale at 44 Main Street (the Star Theatre).
Businesses are open and happy to see you on Saturday and Sunday in Cherry Valley during the Spring into Summer Festival. The Cherry Valley Museum (47

Main Street) will be open for the season and Plaide Palette (45 Main Street) will have psychics on the porch. Cherry Valley Lilacs (54 Lancaster Street) will be open for their season. 25 Main Collective (21 Main Street) will have John Los stools on sale plus work by 30 other artists and makers and the exhibit “Impressions: will be on view in the gallery. Cherry Valley Emporium (19 Main Street), a new business, will have a Sidewalk Sale; A Rose is Rose Florist (17 Main Street) will be working hard on special events in the area; the Cherry Valley Bookstore (81 Alden Street) is open for the season; The Pink Squirrel (4 Main Street) will have special sales on a wide range

of merchandise; and—just outside of the village— The Tepee (7632 US Highway 20) will be open all weekend. The Happy Haggs will perform in the village on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., and there will be a drum circle at noon on Sunday.
Restaurants in the Village of Cherry Valley include Coffee & Crumb Cafe (new at 25 Main Street), open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for breakfast and lunch; Red Shed Ale House (10 Main Street) will be open for lunch Saturday and Sunday, and open for dinner and live music Saturday night; Triangle Tavern (189 Main Street) will be open for dinner Saturday night, and Tryon Inn and Backdoor Bar (124 Main Street) will be open for dinner Saturday night and will have a chicken barbecue on Monday after the parade and memorial.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, the parade run by the American Legion begins at 10 a.m., starting at the library and making its way through downtown until it ends at the cemetery. There will be a short memorial ceremony there immediately following the parade.
All are invited to join Cherry Valley businesses and residents during Memorial Day Weekend for some good community fun. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.cherryvalley. com. Cherry Valley’s Spring into Summer Festival is made possible in part with a grant from the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
CHERRY VALLEY
To everything turn, turn, turn. There is a season turn, turn, turn.” Just like this song by The Byrds, so it is true of the flower business at A Rose is a Rose Florist in Cherry Valley. People often ask if we’re open year round and the answer is always a resounding, “Yes!” When we aren’t having a holiday, we’re still busy working. We have a huge wedding business and we spend a lot of time planning the floral details to make sure the day is flawless and every couple gets the day of their dreams.

In between, there are birthdays, anniversaries, funerals and events that fill up most of the extra days. And paperwork, lots of paperwork. As you can see, there’s not a lot of downtime.
Our flowers come from all over the world, but our favorites are the ones we buy from local farmers.
Last week, we had the pleasure of flowering The Glimmerglass Festival’s gala fundraiser in New York City. This was our fifth year and it’s always an honor to be asked. The event is held at the Metropolitan Club, which is a beautiful and historic venue founded by J.P Morgan in the late 1800s and is still a very exclusive club to date. It seems a long way to go, but we make a fun day out of it. It is New York City, after all.
Our next big focus will be Mother’s Day. That’s in less than two weeks, so mark your calendar now! Mother’s Day, May 10, is our biggest weekend holiday of the year. Just about everyone has a “mom” of some sort in their life. We will have an extensive selection of fresh flowers, plants and lots of beautiful floral arrangements to choose from. Be sure to follow our social media (A Rose is a Rose Florist) to see what’s new.
Our flowers come from




all over the world, but our favorites are the ones we buy from local farmers. They are super fresh and we are helping support fellow small businesses who also work really hard to bring the best products. Some of our most popular flowers are sunflowers, gerbera daisies, ranunculus, roses and peonies. We offer delivery to the entire Cooperstown area, Sharon Springs, Springfield, Richfield Springs and, of course, Cherry Valley. It’s recommended you place your order early, as some-
times we have to make cutoffs for deliveries. We will also have in-house specials for grab-and-go if you want to take something with you.
In addition to flowers, we also offer professional tombstone cleaning from April until October. Now is a great time to get on the schedule to have your family plot looking good before Memorial Day. Even the dirtiest unreadable stone will be brought back to almost new. We have lots of before and after photos and come highly recommended, reasonably priced and fully insured. We offer free estimates and travel within a 30mile radius with excep-


tions for bigger jobs. Brian has more than 35 years in the monument business and will get the job done. Call us at (607) 264-3100.
After Mother’s Day, there will be weddings, graduations and Hall of Fame Weekend, and then a full schedule of weddings through November. Then, before you know it, it will be Christmas… So, as you can see, A Rose is a Rose is definitely a year round flower shop. We are an amazing team and are grateful to serve our wonderful communities who so graciously support us throughout the year. Visit us on the web at aroseisaroseflorist.com.




By JOSHUA YOUNgqUIST
SUNY Institute for Local News
ONEONTA
Tucked into a downtown plaza that once housed the general Clinton Pub, the B Side Ballroom and Supper Club has become one of Oneonta’s most enduring cultural spaces. More than a restaurant or nightlife stop, the venue has established itself as a cornerstone of the local music and performing arts scene—one that brings together longtime residents, area college students and regional musicians in a shared, intimate setting.
Since opening more than a decade ago, the B Side has earned a reputation for thoughtful programming, closeup performances and a listening-first atmosphere that sets it apart from other venues in the region. Its presence downtown has helped sustain live music in Oneonta through shifting economic conditions, changing audiences and the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The venue emerged from a transitional moment for owners Wayne and Rebecca Carrington. Around 2011, the couple was balancing family life and professional careers while feeling pulled back toward music. At the same time, the general Clinton Pub had closed, leaving behind a vacant space in the shopping center located below Main Street at Chestnut and Market streets.
Rebecca Carrington’s uncle, who owned the plaza, suggested they consider reopening it. gravity,” said Wayne Carrington. “We came from various musical backgrounds that had morphed into responsible corporate pursuits, and then we found ourselves at an inflection point around 2011. We resisted the life-long urge to build an intimate music venue as long as we could, and

the rest is history.”
From the outset, the Carringtons were clear that the B Side was not meant to function as a typical bar. Instead, it was designed intentionally around music and shared experience.
“The B Side is a conversation. Its medium is space,” Wayne Carrington said. “An intimate environment built to foster conversation through music, food, beverage and social connection. Artful interactions.”
That guiding idea
remains evident inside the venue. Performers play just feet from the audience. Seating is arranged to encourage closeness and attention. Music is treated as something to be actively listened to, not background noise. Shows often unfold in near silence between songs, with audiences fully engaged in the performance.
For musicians, that atmosphere stands out. Elliot Barrett, who has performed at the B Side with bands including Koleslaw, described the


venue as unlike any other place to play locally.
“We love playing at the B Side,” Barrett said. “It’s such a friendly environment with great food, great staff and great sound. No other venue in town captures the moody atmosphere that the B Side does.”
Audience attentiveness is a central part of the experience, he added.
“The crowd is always amazing,” Barrett said. “People are attentive and want to hear good local music.”
Maintaining that level of engagement, however, is one of the ongoing challenges of running a live music venue in a small city in upstate New York. When asked about the biggest hurdle the B Side faces, Carrington did not hesitate.
“Keeping people engaged,” he said.
Even so, the venue has remained deeply committed to live performance. On average, the B Side hosts more than a hundred shows per year,
including numerous national touring and g rammy-nominated acts—an ambitious slate by any measure, particularly in a city the size of Oneonta.
“Any venue that invests in 1,000+ highlevel shows has to be making an impact,”
The mission of Catholic Charities Delaware Otsego Schoharie Counties is to serve and empower the most vulnerable members of the community and your gifts help us serve every person with dignity, justice and mercy.
Carrington said. “But the community is always the one to decide value.”
The local music scene itself has seen cycles of growth and contraction over the past 15 years.
Wayne Carrington, who has been involved in Oneonta’s arts commu-
Continued on page 9


David Hayes Sculpture
The Hyperion Galleries Rockefeller Center Thursday May 14, 2026 6:30 to 8:30 pm 620 Fifth Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, New York



To purchase tickets or for more information, call one of our local offices: Cobleskill 518-234-3581
Oneonta 607-432-0061 Sidney 607-604-4071


Hooray for the City of Oneonta Planning Commission, which unanimously approved the Rehabilitation Support Services Solstice Commons housing project earlier this month. We apologize for not catching the typo in that organization’s name in last week’s front-page article…
Almost a year ago to the day, members of the housing work group for the Otsego County “2025 Community Needs Assessment”—the final version of which was released last August by Opportunities for Otsego—met to discuss feedback from the Community Needs Assessment Survey from which information for that report was gathered in part.
According to OFO, “Discussion groups were prearranged to encourage discussion between a cross section of sectors within the community. Group leaders were provided with a list of questions, based on quantitative and qualitative community data, to facilitate solution focused discussions.”
In its report (https://ofoinc.org/application/ files/2117/5372/9455/OFO_CNA_2025_FINAL. pdf), OFO identified housing as one of the county’s most pressing needs. Recapping our editorial of September 4, 2025, that report reads in part:
• Over the past 10 years, Otsego County lost 2.5% of its housing units. Of the estimated 30,011 units, nearly one-quarter are vacant with 80% deemed seasonal or for recreational use.
• The median year housing was built in Otsego County was 1954. An estimated 11% of housing units were built after 2000 and 70.4% were built before the 1978 lead paint ban.
• Fair Market rate for rental housing has increased 18.1%-45.7% over the past seven years, while median home sales prices have increased 32.9% since 2020. As such, 42.7% of renters and 26.8% of [homeowners] in Otsego County are “cost burdened.”
We believed then, and we believe now, that without the advent of additional housing of all kinds—and without thoughtful economic development—we cannot begin to address the needs of Otsego County’s low-income individuals.
The housing work group’s list of solutions and interventions to address community gaps reinforced our thinking in its first five recommendations:
• Develop housing to address and alleviate increasing housing costs for year-round residents.
• Expand manufacturing jobs to bring year-round residents to the area.
• Increase inventory of low-income/subsidized housing to alleviate excessive wait lists.
• Community education/awareness campaign on benefits to supportive housing (e.g. RSS and Springbrook projects).
• Review and update county and municipal laws/ ordinances that create bottlenecks, impede progress, increase costs, and limit the inventory of multifamily dwellings and year-round housing (e.g. number of unrelated individuals in one one-unit, short-term housing, rent control laws, zoning).
It has been a long road for RSS. Our readers may remember that their proposal to purchase city-owned land at 27 Market Street was met with pushback from the community that resulted in a “no” vote by five members of the City of Oneonta Common Council, effectively squashing what then-Mayor Mark Drnek considered to be “the first step in a plan for development that is the realization of a neighborhood, featuring all types of housing…market rate, supported, and work-force-affordable.”
The failed proposal would have included a mixed-use, professionally managed building with 47 energy-efficient apartments available to those earning 30–70 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI); first-floor commercial space that will energize downtown; and 30 on-site parking spots, according to RSS Director of Strategic Partnerships Christine Nealon.
Nealon describes the Solstice Commons project as a “61-unit housing community at 164 River Street, on a parcel owned by RSS and zoned appropriately for this type of building. It is designed to provide both affordable and supportive housing in a way that blends with, and complements, the existing neighborhood. It is not a shelter, nor is it a treatment
Tfacility. It is high-quality, professionally managed, code-compliant, and thoughtfully designed housing that will strengthen our community.”
In a “Partial Observer” opinion piece written by Nealon and published by AllOtsego on October 2, 2025, she explained that tenants who make 30-70 percent of the area median income and some individuals living with Serious Mental Illness will call Solstice Commons, Home. “By definition, Nealon wrote, “SMI refers to any diagnosis that can disrupt daily life, such as major depression. With proper support, individuals with SMI live independently, work, and contribute fully to their communities. Nationally, about 15 million adults, or 6 percent of the U.S. population, live with an SMI (NIMH).
“Importantly, tenants at Solstice Commons would not be strangers to Oneonta. They already work here, raise families, and contribute to our schools, businesses, and neighborhoods. With the stability of affordable housing and on-site support, they can and will maintain wellness and continue to thrive,” according to Nealon.
We are excited to see this RSS project moving forward. We are excited as well by the housing proposal for 217 Main Street in Cooperstown, the former Where It All Begin Bat Company. According to an opinion piece written by Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh by AllOtsego on June 5, 2025, “the village has long been interested in that site’s potential for housing.” In the potential 50 unit (35 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom), three-story building, Springbrook, with partner Vecino Group, is hoping to build eight dedicated, one-bedroom units for individuals for which Springbrook would then provide on-site support services. We are excited as well by “The Grove,” a Simple Integrity project in the Village of Cooperstown in which 11 one-bedroom rental apartments are planned, along with four duplexes to be sold.
So hooray for RSS. This win was a long time coming. Hooray for housing—in all its forms and functions. And hooray for the folks that make these projects happen.
he idea that each successive generation of Americans is better off than the one before is the American Dream. Our Declaration of Independence proposed America as a place where individuals could rise from effort instead of birthright. As we near its 250th anniversary, let’s recall the first words the Declaration:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by
their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that amongst these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
The pursuit of happiness meant unshackling our obligations to a king. That freedom lifted expectations that children would surpass the well-being of their parents as a core value in our national identity.
The historian James Truslow Adams popularized
“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.

Counsel Jill Ann Poulson
County
Village of Cooperstown
Village of Milford Cooperstown Central School District MEMBER: National Newspaper Association, NY Press Association
Subscription Rates: Otsego County, $69 a year. All other areas, $89 a year.
the notion of the American Dream in his book “The Epic of America” (1931) by describing the U.S. as a place where life should be “better and richer” for each generation. The Dream has been fading as wealth inequality rises and the middle class shrinks, making it harder for families to get by, even with two incomes. The economic divide between rural and suburban and urban America is also widening. Continued on page 11
I greatly appreciate that you printed my Induction Day Cover in your April 9 issue. It not only covers the induction of David Ortiz on July 24, 2022, but also the earlier induction of Mariano Rivera on July 21, 2019. I had to hold onto the Rivera cover for three years before acquiring the Ortiz cancellation.
On the original Mariano Rivera cover, I used the Yankee Stadium stamp, and the one cent Panama Pacific stamp from 1913 (#397 in the Scott stamp catalogue) which cost me $13.00 each because, as we know, Mariano Rivera is Panamanian. The 20 cent Jackie Robinson stamp was chosen to make the postal rate, as both he and Mariano wore number 42 on their jerseys.
As David Ortiz was a Boston Red Sox player, I chose the Fenway Park stamp for his induction. In addition, I chose the Forever baseball stamp to make the postage rate, as it visually integrates with the two baseballs in the Induction Day cancels.
I thought the cover creator should share his thought
process. I have covers of other Hall of Fame inductees that are equally worthy of illustration and explanation. I deeply appreciate your exposure of my work.
Al Keck Cooperstown
Glimmerglass: Try It, You’ll Like It!
If you are a patron of or volunteer at The Glimmerglass Festival, when did you develop an interest or taste in the art forms of opera and musical theater? If you have never attended a live opera or musical performance at the world-renowned Alice Busch Opera Theater on State Route 80 Cooperstown, what keeps you from doing so?
For 10 seasons, The Guild of The Glimmerglass Festival has sought to introduce students of all ages to performances at The Glimmerglass Festival so that exposure to these art forms will help people decide if they would like to see and hear more.
In addition, since educators frequently ask students to be part of a team or talk with them about the value of teamwork, our student programs
seek to expose students to the multi-creative team that puts musical productions on to the stage.
In partnership with The Glimmerglass Festival, the guild is hosting two free student events this summer. Registration is required on the guild’s website: glimmerglassguild.org.
Students in grades 7 through 12 are invited to the July 14 dress rehearsal of “Cosi” at “An Evening at a Festival Dress Rehearsal.” “Cosi” is the festival’s new production of Mozart’s classic opera. It will feature a newly translated English libretto by Dramaturg/ Librettist Kelley Rourke and will be set in an American college. Our program will begin at 4:15 p.m. with a campus tour and will include some explanation of the work that is done to prepare for a performance premiere. The rehearsal will begin at approximately 7 p.m.
Our second “Day at the Festival for Students” will be at the August 7 matinee performance of the youth opera “Robin Hood.” The music for this one-hour opera—sung in English with a cast of chilContinued on page 11

Compiled by Tom
HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art museum Research Library
The following are among the Laws passed at the last Session of the Legislature of New York: An act concerning the maintenance of certain persons, formerly slaves; An act for the relief of the people of the united society called Shakers; An act for the relief of the children of the late Robert Edmeston; An act for the relief of Levi Beardsley; An act to change the punishment of David Williams, who hath been convicted of murder, into imprisonment for life at hard labor; An act authorizing the building of a new state prison in the western district of this state; An act to incorporate the City of Troy. An act relating to the Shinecock tribe ofindians; An act for draining swamps and other lowlands, not exceeding one hundred acres in quantity; An act directing the incorporation of Hartwick Seminary; An act to authorize the extinguishment of the claims of the St. Regis indians to lands in this state; An act to erect parts of the Towns of Litchfield in the County of Herkimer, Richfield andplainfield, in the county of Otsego, into a separate town by the name of Winfield.
May 2, 1816
Who Will Build i t? The need of a large Summer Hotel at this place, is a matter of frequent comment at this time, when inquiries are constantly being made of our citizens by persons living at a distance, whether summer board can be obtained in Cooperstown. i f we had room for all who would be glad to come here this summer, they would leave not less than $100,000 in the village. i t is the thing needed by our traders and businessmen generally. The need of the house is admitted. Who will build it? i f done at all, it must be built by the capitalists of this place. Strangers are not coming here to do it; they would not, even if we had a railroad; and not many of our active traders have the spare means. But we have a number of heavy capitalists who might put up such a house as is needed, and not feel it. Will they do anything to promote the interests and growth of the village?
April 27, 1866
85 YEARS AGO
Robert C. Tennant, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clermonte G. Tennant of Cooperstown, last week was notified of his appointment to the staff of the Federal Bureau of investigation, and instructed to report at Washington, D.C. on Monday, May 5. Mrs. Tennant, who was Miss Jane Nevil, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.J. Nevil of this village will remain here for the present but will join her husband later. The young attorney, who is joining the forces of J. Edgar Hoover, was graduated from the Cooperstown High School, Hamilton College and Albany Law School.
April 30, 1941
Six-year-old Michael J. Jackson, son of Trooper and Mrs. James E. Jackson of Cooperstown, fell into the swollen waters of the Susquehanna River just south of the village boundary and drowned Monday afternoon. The tragedy occurred about 3:30 p.m. while Michael and two playmates, Danny Adams and John Maxwell, all Kindergarten pupils at the nearby Cooperstown Elementary School, were playing along the river’s bank. According to state police reports, Michael was walking along an 18-inch sewer pipe and apparently slipped, falling into the river and was carried downstream before an overhanging branch caught him. The Adams boy ran to his home on Beaver Street and told his father John A. Adams who alerted school authorities. Adams along withprincipalpaul J. Lambert and Miss Donna L. Boyce,physical Educationinstructor, raced to the scene. Lambert pulled the boy from the water. After mouth to mouth resuscitation efforts failed, the boy was taken to the hospital nearby where further measures also failed.
April 27, 1966
Solution: “And Now a Word from Alcatraz’” (April 23)

With growing interest in live music across our region, Cooperstown is increasingly recognized as a year-round destination for high-quality performances that attract audiences from near and far. Reflecting that momentum, Cooperstown Concerts—a longstanding nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting live music—has just concluded its 2025-2026 season on a high note, with a vibrant series of events attended by more than 1,200 people from across central New York and beyond.

Cooperstown Concerts ended its 2025-2026 season with a performance by the award-winning ensemble Cerus Quartet.
Cooperstown Concerts’ recent season featured seven diverse performances—six of which sold out—alongside outstanding audience reviews, popular food, beverage, and lodging offerings, enriching educational programs, and strong community support and partnerships.performances were hosted at premier local venues, reflecting the organization’s commitment to present world-class music close to home. Across the events, Cooperstown Concerts created cultural experiences that welcomed audiences of all ages, strengthening both community connections and the local economy.
By MERL REAGLE
ACROSS
1 Of a Mongolian mountain range
7 Companion of coeur
10 Run the ___
15 Air rifle ammo
18 1950 Joan Fontaine drama
21 Bell burg in a book
22 Sushi candidate
23 1946 Cocteau fantasy
25 Bother
26 “What time ___?”
27 It’s two after epsilon
28 Sad ending?
29 Verb on a freak-show sign
30 Salt Lake player
31 Built or begun: abbr.
32 School of city-life painters
34 Typing sound
37 Violin VIP
39 1975 Bergen-Hackman western
42 Ohio or Peru city
44 Certain degs.
46 Hosea, in the Douay
47 Rodeo attendee
48 Yield the floor
49 House of hay
50 Hub of activity: abbr.
52 Sticks around
54 Country great Roy
55 Blood letters
56 1970 William Friedkin drama (with The)
60 Word that Spanish alphabetizers ignore
61 Actors Jack and son Chris
63 Mrs. with a ghost
64 Yogi, in Yucatan
65 Card carrier: abbr.
66 A Star ___
On the ___ (fleeing)
Even the slightest
Thirty-two oz.
Studio apartment, essentially
Nurses fresh out of sch.
Cooperstown Concerts presented a dynamic mix of jazz/funk, country, folk,indian, rock and roll, and classical music concerts. Season highlights included three all-new events, each reflecting the nonprofit’s commitment to making an impact in different ways:
The organization hosted its first Diwali celebration in November, which was a highlight of the fall season. The community-focused event brought 175 people together across the region in the celebration of light with music, dancing, insights andindian foods. The Diwali event marked the
Continued on page 9
Some openings have a sameness about them

1980 comedy (with
1972 horror spoof directed by Larry Hagman
SST heading, maybe
January, to Juan
A king of England: abbr.
Mr. Chaney
EDMESTON—Oneonta Community Health Center announced a new partnership with the Edmeston Community Cupboard, marking the official launch of its Rural Outreach Program. This initiative will bring free primary healthcare to uninsured and underinsured adults in rural parts of Otsego County. All patients must make an appointment in advance by calling (607) 433-0300. The Edmeston clinic will run from 6-8 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month at Community Cupboard Food Pantry, 9 West Street. Visit oneontahealthcenter.org for more information or to make a taxdeductible donation.
ONEONTA—Helios Care issued a statement in honor of Nurses Week, May 6-12, celebrating its nursing staff for the central role they play in palliative care. Helios extended its sincere gratitude for their work. For more information, visit helioscare.org.
STAMFORD—The Roxbury Arts Group opened “Intimate Topographies,” an exhibition of mixedmedia art by Robin Factor and photographs by Colleen S. O’Hara, on display through June 13. Held at the Headwaters Arts Center, 66 Main Street in Stamford, the exhibition will host an artists’ talk from 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, May 23. It is free and open to the public. For more information, visit roxburyartsgroup.org/exhibitions/intimate-topographies.
OTSEGO COUNTY—The American Red Cross issued an urgent appeal for blood and platelet donations. Donors who give from May 1-17 will receive a $20.00 Amazon gift card. Appointments may be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Walk-ins are also welcome. Upcoming blood drives include: South Kortright Central School, 58200 State Route 10, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on May 1; FoxCare, 1 FoxCare Drive in Oneonta, from noon to 5 p.m. on May 6; Sidney High School, 95 West Main Street, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 7; New Lisbon Town Hall, 908 County Route 16 in Garrattsville, from 1:30-5:30 p.m. on May 7; Walton O’Neil High School, 47-49 Stockton Avenue in Walton, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 8; American Legion Post 259, 279 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, from 1:305:30 p.m. on May 8; Downsville Central School, 14784 State Route 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 11; Delaware County Public Safety Building, 280 Phoebe Lane in Delhi, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 11; and Quality Inn, 5206 State Route 23 in Oneonta, from 1-6 p.m. on May 14.
MONTCLAIR, NJ—Montclair State University released its fall 2025 Dean’s List, honoring students who achieved a grade point average of at least 3.5. Among the honorees was Lilly Grady, a theatre studies major from Cooperstown.
EDMESTON—Pathfinder Village’s 13th annual Splash Path 5K and Fun Walk will be held on Saturday, May 16, with registration open at 8:30 a.m., craft and vendor booths open at 9 a.m., and the race beginning at 10 a.m. There will be a postrace music festival with live music by Litt Hour, food and beverage trucks, craft vendors, and children’s activities. The race features non-toxic colors and will run rain or shine. All proceeds will support Pathfinder’s new Farmstead Market and Community Center, set to open this fall. For more information or to register for the race, visit raceroster.com/events/2026/117687/splash-path-2026.
COOPERSTOWN—Bassett Healthcare Network will hold its third annual David S. Svahn Humanities in Medicine Memorial Lecture in the Clark Auditorium at 1 Atwell Road at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, May 15. The guest speaker will be Dr. Michael P. Flanagan, an assistant dean for student affairs, professor of family and community medicine, and professor of humanities at Penn State College of Medicine’s University Park Campus. He will present a talk titled “All Roads Lead to Rome: Lessons from a Medical School Mentor and the Italian Renaissance Artists.” It is free and open to the public and will be livestreamed at bassett. org/svahn-lecture.
COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Winter Carnival Committee held a wrap-up meeting to evaluate the annual festival and plan for next year on Saturday, March 28. In 2026, it hosted the Carnival Hot Cocoa Kick-Off, the Carnival Trivia Contest and the Carnival Finale Fan Fest while providing support and marketing for other community events. New events this year included the frying pan toss at Northway Beverage, the End Zone Energy Dance for Teens and a Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals art show featuring work by Cooperstown elementary
school students. The 2027 carnival will follow the theme “Frozen in Time” and run from February 4-7. The committee seeks volunteers to serve as secretary and as fundraisers. It will have a table at the May 5 Welcome Home Cooperstown event, 5 p.m. at the Village Hall, to discuss plans with the wider community. For more information or to volunteer, contact CooperstownWinterCarnival@gmail.com.
ONEONTA—Super Heroes Humane Society will host its annual Native Plants Sale fundraiser at Hartwick College’s Johnstone Science Center Greenhouse from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 1 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. It will feature a wide variety of indigenous flowers, trees, ferns and shrubs, with a special emphasis on supporting pollinators.
COOPERSTOWN—The Village of Cooperstown will hold its annual Arbor Day celebration at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1. A memorial tree honoring Ron and Susie Streek will be planted in front of their home and Main Street Bed and Breakfast at 202 Main Street.
COOPERSTOWN—Bassett Healthcare Network announced the addition of Maximillian Lincoln, MD, to its team of orthopedic practitioners. Lincoln is a double fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in total knee and hip replacement.
NEW BERLIN—Preferred Mutual Insurance Company announced that it earned Energage’s 2026 USA Today Top Workplaces Award, its third consecutive year to achieve this honor. The award recognizes organizations with at least 150 employees that have created exceptional, people-first cultures. It is determined by a confidential employee feedback survey conducted by HR research firm Energage. For more information, visit preferredmutual.com.
ONEONTA—The Oneonta Rotary Club will host a performance of dance, music and heritage by Armenian youth cultural exchange ensemble ArmFolk Group at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5. The performance is free, with a suggested donation of $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and children. ArmFolk will hold workshops and exchanges with local college, middle- and high-school students during their two-day visit.
COOPERSTOWN—As part of its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will honor Cubs center fielder and Marine Corps Reserve veteran Rick Monday at the July 25 Awards Presentation during Induction Weekend. During a game at Dodger Stadium on April 25, 1976, Monday saved an American flag that demonstrators were attempting to burn on the field. The flag will be on display at the Hall of Fame from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. For more information, visit baseballhall.org.
‘Rock of Ages’ To Be Performed
ONEONTA—Orpheus Theatre will present the Tony-nominated Broadway musical “Rock of Ages” at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, May 8 and 9 and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 10. The show features music by many of the most celebrated rock bands of the 1980s and is directed by Kelsey Stearns, with musical direction by Lexi Bryant, choreography by Josette LaRocca, and stage management by Morgan Dutcher. Tickets are available at OrpheusTheatre. org, with any remaining tickets to be sold at the door for a higher price.
Bassett Workshop Rescheduled
COOPERSTOWN—Bassett Healthcare Network rescheduled its free public class on pelvic health during perimenopause to 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16. Held in the Clark Sports Center’s Community Room, the workshop will provide an overview of pelvic floor health and therapy during this stage of life.
Arts Group Releases Schedule
ROXBURY—The Roxbury Arts Group recently announced its 2026 performance season. More information and tickets are available at roxburyartsgroup. org or by calling (607) 326-7908. The Arts Center itself, 5025 Vega Mountain Road in Roxbury, will co-host “Homegrown Sounds,” an exhibition of rural Catskills musicians, from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday, May 23. American Patchwork Quartet will perform at 7:30 on Friday, May 29. Loco 7 Dance Puppet Theatre will present “Cause and Effect” at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 25. Les Greene and the Swayzees will play at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, September 4, followed by The Clements Brothers at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, September 25. The “Fiddlers!” concert will round out the season with a full lineup of string musicians
at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 11. The Arts Group will co-host another series of events at the Old School Baptist Church, at the intersection of County Route 36 and Cartwright Road in Denver. The Tomeka Reid/Marty Ehrlich Duo will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, followed by Basso Vox at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 3. Toby and Azalea Twining are scheduled for a Roxbury Arts Group fundraiser concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 24. Brooklyn-Cumaná will finish the season at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 31.
COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Lions Club will host a screening of “Lessons from 100: Reflections in my Centennial Year” at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s Bullpen Theater from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. The film stars Jack Weber, who turned 100 years old in 2024, in conversations with his filmmaker grandson, Matthew Floyd. It has been screened at the Big Apple Film Festival, Daddying Film Festival and Forum, and Storyteller Universe Film Festival. Tickets are $25.00 and may be purchased via EventBrite. All proceeds benefit the Cooperstown Lions Club.
COOPERSTOWN—The New York State Sportwriters Association released its All-State awards for class B, C and D boys basketball on Wednesday, April 22. Cooperstown Central School senior point guard Miles Nelen was named Class C Player of the Year. He led the Hawkeyes to a state title and undefeated 27-0 record this year, scoring 720 points to double his three-year varsity total to 1,440. Senior center Jackson Crisman was named to the Second Team and senior guard Christian Lawson made the Fourth Team. Junior forward Brody Murdock received an honorable mention. Coop
COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown tennis swept Little Falls 5-0 in a home Division I match on Tuesday, April 21. Henry Ayers, Alfred Hom and Hayden Spencer swept their opponents in all three singles matches 6-0, 6-0. Bianca Adam and Emmett Ayers won first doubles 6-1, 6-4; Micah Raffo and Deanna Wolfe swept second doubles 6-0, 6-0. The Hawkeyes handed Sauquoit Valley its first loss of the season with a 4-1 Division I victory on Wednesday, April 22. Henry Ayers won first singles 6-3, 6-3. Hom fought his way to a 1-6, 6-4, 7-6 second singles victory in a grueling match lasting more than three hours. Spencer fell in third singles 6-4, 3-6, 4-6. Adam and Raffo won first doubles 62, 6-3 and Emmett Ayers and Rigzin Gazan took second doubles 6-1, 6-3.
Cooperstown swept Hamilton 5-0 in a home nondivision match on Thursday, April 23. They swept Poland 5-0 in a Division I match on the road the next day. The Hawkeyes rose to 6-0 for the season and 5-0 in their division. They hosted Mount Markham for a non-division match on Monday, April 27; details were not available at press time.
COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown softball fell 16-8 to Little Falls in a non-division road game on Tuesday, April 21. Carlotta Falso took the loss, striking out five batters but giving up 13 walks and four hits in six innings. She also went two-for-three at the plate, driving in a run and scoring two of her own. Evelyn Baldo went two-for-four with two RBI and two runs.
The Hawkeyes earned their first win of the season with a 16-4 Division II romp at Waterville on Wednesday, April 22. Falso struck out eight batters and allowed three hits, adding two doubles and two RBI on offense. Scarlett Bong went threefor-four and scored four runs. Allison Butts added three more.
Sauquoit Valley swept Cooperstown 12-0 in a Division II game on Friday, April 24. Falso struck out 10 batters but walked nine and allowed four earned runs. The Hawkeyes fell to 1-6 for the season and 1-4 in their division. They will travel to Mount Markham after press time on Wednesday, April 29.
Cooperstown baseball fought its way to a 9-7 extra-inning Division II victory over Waterville on Wednesday, April 22. Colton Hill had two hits and three RBI, including the game-winner. Joey Paterno earned the win in relief, striking out 10 and giving up six runs on seven hits and three walks. He batted in two runs.
The Hawkeyes fell 19-6 in five innings to Frankfort-Schuyler in a non-division game on Friday, April 24. Braden Rawitch took the loss on the mound. At bat, he went four-for-four with two doubles and two runs. Sawyer McManus went twofor-two with a double and RBI.
Cooperstown beat Sauquoit Valley 9-6 in a Division II game at Doubleday Field on Monday, April 27. Rawitch hit a three-run homer in the first inning and scored another run. Paterno earned another win, striking out six and giving up six walks and four hits in five innings. Elijah McCaffrey gave up three runs on two walks and a hit during his two innings in relief. Brenin Dempsey added two runs and two RBI, and McManus had two hits. The Hawkeyes stand at 3-2 for the season and 3-1 in their division. They will host Mount Markham for a non-division game after press time on Wednesday, April 29.
By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL VAN HORNESVILLE
An unassuming white church has for generations been a center of community life for the small, forest-nestled hamlet of Van Hornesville. With a benefit concert bringing together some of those Van Hornesville generations this past Sunday, April 26, the Van Hornesville Community Corporation sought to fund the Millpond Community Center’s next chapter.
Bringing together four descendants of a 19th-century local boy made international industrialist, businessman, and lawyer, Owen D. Young, “Relative Harmony” had around 30 community members snapping and clapping to dynamic sets incorporating country, jazz, and blues music. Hopes of far-flung journeys and potential sweeties rang off the high ceiling, illuminated by stained windows in the late afternoon light.

“I have done benefit concerts in my home state of Vermont in the past and helped other organizations raise money,” said jazz vocalist-percussionist and VHCC member Suzannah Young Ciernia. “And I thought, well, heck, why don’t I do this here in Van Hornesville?”
Also on stage were singer-songwriter-guitarist Charlie Young, a regular performer in Ithaca; bassist Peter Young, who gigs with several Americana and blues bands in Santa Cruz, California; and singer-
songwriter-guitarist Martin Fjeld, who also performs in Vermont.
They share the same commitment of Owen D. Young to the village, who returned often even while he was rising in the ranks of General Electric, putting together the State University of New York, or, at one point, running for president of the United States— among other pursuits.
The public school he founded in Van Hornesville bears his name: the Owen D. Young Central School
District.
“Among the things that it is said, and I believe it to be true,” shared VHCC Board President Bob Ciernia, “no matter where he traveled in the world, he always had his pocket watch set to Van Hornesville time.”
The VHCC has supported community activities from dancing to coffee chats since it was founded by Young in 1938 at the tail end of his professional career. Today, the church that once saw a teenage Universalist Young preaching needs some restoration and renovation to further empower its impact.
“It’s been used regularly, but winters are harder to manage,” Bob Ciernia, husband of Suzannah, said, proposing winterization. “What would make it a true community center? Perhaps adding a kitchenette, or something like that.”
The organization is also looking at purchasing new folding chairs and tables for community dinner events and the like. Grant writing is expected to be part of the funding process, too.
Suzannah Ciernia dedicated one song before an intermission with refreshments, “Workin’ on a World” by Iris DeMent, to those fighting injustice and working to improve their communities.
“Now I’m workin’ on a world I may never see / I’m joinin’ forces with thе warriors of love / Who came beforе and will follow you and me / I get up in the mornin’ knowing I’m privileged just to be / Workin’ on a world I may never see.”
The League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area will hold a candidates’ debate for the two open seats on the Cooperstown Central School District Board of Education on Wednesday, May 6 at the Cooperstown JuniorSenior High School cafeteria at 7 p.m. The event is co-sponsored by the Cooperstown PTA. Each candidate will have an opportunity to speak and answer questions from the audience during the forum.
Three candidates are running for school board: Margaret Lyon Dowd, MD, Christopher Franck, and Nicholas A. Marcantonio, PhD. School board members serve three-year terms and oversee the adminis-
tration of school districts. The school board elections are non-partisan; candidates do not run as members of a party. School board elections in New York are held each year in conjunction with a vote to approve the annual budget.
Dr. Dowd is an attending physician and surgeon at Bassett Hospital. Her three children are students in the Cooperstown schools, and she has been involved in various school-related activities, including “The Walnut Street Journal” and the Cooperstown Kid Garden.
Franck is completing his first term on the CCS Board of Education. A graduate of Cooperstown Central High School in 1983, he is currently a guest lecturer at Cornell Johnson Graduate School
of Management.
Dr. Marcantonio, who has been teaching since 2004, retired from the faculty of Cooperstown High School in 2025 after 18 years with the district. He is currently an adjunct lecturer in mathematics at SUNY Oneonta. He served on various school committees during his tenure at CCS, and his daughter graduated from Cooperstown in 2015.
“School boards are small and local. Those running for the office make an important commitment to the community,” noted Maureen Murray, voter services chair of the LWV Cooperstown Area. “They are not paid, but nonetheless, make an important commitment to our community, sharing their time and expertise to oversee not
UTICA—The average price of gasoline in New York State rose eight cents to $4.18 per gallon over the week ending Monday, April 27, AAA Northeast announced. Markets remain uncertain about the Trump administration’s unprecedented counter-blockade of the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, leaving no clear indication of which ships can actually use the critical waterway. Before press time on the morning Tuesday, April 28, AAA announced a further day-overday price increase of 1.6 percent, the largest single-day increase in more than a month. The nationwide average rose to $4.18 per gallon, the highest price since the April 2022 oil shock following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. New York’s price currently stands at $4.21, 29 cents higher than last month and $1.22 higher than this time last year. To view the full report, visit gasprices.aaa.com.


only the education of our children, but the funding and spending necessary to maintain our schools. We hope the community will turn out to hear these candidates speak on May 6.”
Candidates for school board must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, a resident of their district continuously for at least one year before the election, and qualified voters in the school district;
board members are also expected to be able to read and write. They cannot be employed by the board on which they serve or live in the same household with a family member who is also on the school board. The election will be held at the Cooperstown Junior-Senior High School, 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown on Tuesday, May 19. Polls are open from
11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Any citizen 18 years of age or older who has been a resident of the district for 30 days preceding the election is qualified to vote. Applications for absentee ballots are available at the district office, 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown; contact Maria Field, (607) 5475364. Ballots must be returned by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19.

By ERIC SANTOMAURO-STENZEL MOHAWK
As of April 24, Otsego County, the Town of Middlefield, and the Village of Cooperstown have been certified as Bronze Climate Smart Communities by New York State, marking progress toward climate action and energy efficiency.
Otsego County is the first county in the Mohawk Valley economic region to receive the certification.
The Climate Smart Communities program offers a checklist of actions local municipalities can take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, with actions assigned point values. The long checklist includes items like measuring greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change or installing heat pumps. There is also a Silver level. Beyond immediate environmental and cost-savings benefits, municipalities are incentivized to participate through increased state grant opportunities.
“Seeing these communities be honored for their hard work in the program is wonderful,” Kaitlyn
Coluccio, a sustainability specialist at the Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, said in a press release. “We as coordinators are here to help any community interested in the program. Many actions communities are already taking could count for points in the program–such as comprehensive plan updates, stormwater infrastructure, and weatherization projects. You might be a lot closer to Bronze Certification than you think!”
Reached for comment, Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh reacted by saying, “The Village is very pleased to receive the Bronze Award as a Climate Smart Community.
“We want to recognize in particular all the work completed by the village’s Community and Environment Committee which served as the required CSC task force for our application. In all, we were recognized for 16 actions in seven categories for a total of 143 points–23 more than are required for Bronze status. We particularly thank the staff at MVEDD, who were incredibly helpful in assembling our application, and ensuring all of our climate smart
actions were recognized by NYS.”
Some of Otsego County’s high-point items included: the creation of a Climate Smart Communities Task Force and selection of a program coordinator; a government operations greenhouse gas inventory; government building energy audits; and community campaigns to promote environmental and climate friendly practices.
For Middlefield, actions also included the task force and coordinator, as well as including sustainability elements in its comprehensive plan and utilizing LED street lights. In Cooperstown, further items included community solar use and partnerships with other municipalities.
Full details can be found at: https://climatesmart. ny.gov/actions-certification/participating-communities
Other municipalities in Otsego County have already received Bronze certifications. They are: the Town of New Lisbon; the City of Oneonta; the Town of Oneonta; and the Town of Roseboom.
The Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard will open for its milestone 170th season on Thursday, May 8, welcoming visitors back to one of Central New York’s most beloved and enduring attractions.
Since 1856, the mill has offered guests a unique blend of history, hospitality, and flavor, officials said in a press release—from freshpressed cider and millaged New York cheddar to buttercream fudge and a scenic millpond experience. Reaching 170 seasons marks a rare achievement in American small business and underscores the mill’s role as both a working agricultural site and a tourism destination.
“This season is especially meaningful for us,” said owner Bill Michaels. “Celebrating 170 years is a testament to the generations of guests, employees and community members who have
supported the mill.
We’re proud to continue that tradition while also sharing our story on a national stage.”
That national spotlight comes through the mill’s recent inclusion in a documentary produced by the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program. The Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard was selected as one of just three alumni businesses from across the United States to be featured in the film, which highlights the impact of small businesses on local economies and communities.
According to the press release, the documentary segment featuring the Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard was filmed on-site over three days during the 2025 season, capturing both daily operations and the guest experience that defines the mill. The production included visits from Goldman Sachs Executives John Rogers and Asahi Pompey, who
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.
met with Michaels and staff to explore the role of small businesses in strengthening local economies and communities.
The documentary debuted during the 10,000 Small Businesses program’s Advocacy Summit in Washington D.C., bringing the story of Fly Creek and rural New York entrepreneurship to a national audience of policymakers and business leaders.
“Being selected by the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program as one of just three businesses featured nationwide is an incredible honor,” said Michaels. “It gave us the opportunity to bring the story of a small, rural New York business to a national stage in Washington D.C. to demonstrate how businesses like ours drive tourism, support agriculture and sustain local economies across the country.”
Looking ahead to the
summer season, Michaels said the mill will once again host the Cousins Maine Lobster food truck on Friday, June 6 and again on September 13. After drawing large crowds during its previous visit, the return is expected to be one of the highlights of the early summer calendar, pairing the nationally
known lobster offerings with the mill’s signature setting and products.
Michaels said guests visiting throughout the season can enjoy the mill’s tasting room, featuring New York State beverages, explore the Mill Store Marketplace, stocked with regional goods, and take in the charm of the historic
property just minutes from Cooperstown. Opening day festivities begin May 8, with the mill operating daily throughout the season. For more information, including hours, events, and details on the Cousins Maine Lobster visit, visit www.flycreekcidermill.com.

‘A Day in Hollywood, A Night in Ukraine’ ONEONTA—Directed by John McCaslin-Doyle with book and lyrics by Dick Vosburgh, music by Frank Lazarus, at SUNY Oneonta’s Goodrich Theatre, April 29-May 1 at 7:30 p.m. and May 2nd at 2:00 p.m. See Rachel Frick Cardelle’s “On Stage” column at AllOtsego.com to learn more.
By ERIC SANTOMAUROSTENZEL ALBANY
Alexander Portelli, the upstart Republican Congressional candidate, has successfully made the NY-19 primary ballot after a New York State Board of Elections staff hearing and commissioner vote. It forces a June primary with state Senator Peter Oberacker.
Olivia Clemente of Valatie, New York filed objections to Portelli’s signatures earlier this month, claiming numerous flaws and alleging fraud. Portelli denies the allegations.

Initial NYSBOE review recommended invalidating the petition, though with a far smaller number of invalid signatures than Clemente alleged. A Friday, April 24 NYSBOE staff hearing, however, reversed the recommendation against validating Portelli’s petition signatures.
On Tuesday, April 28 shortly before press time, NYSEBOE Commissioners formalized that decision and others in a brief meeting. Portelli will appear on the ballot.
Portelli hired an election lawyer, Gary Donoyan, to represent him in the staff hearing last Friday. His father, John Portelli,

also represented him. They were able to restore enough signatures to put the campaign back above the 1,250 signature threshold. Clemente, who was not present and who previously worked on Republican campaigns, was represented by two lawyers: Jon Graves and David Previte of Hinman Straub. The attorneys have a history of working for New York State Republicans, particularly in the State Senate.
This is a developing story written shortly before our weekly press time. Go to AllOtsego.com for more details.

The Office of the Burial of the Dead with Holy Eucharist for Phyllis M. Lippitt, who entered into eternal life February 16, 2026, will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Christ Church, Cooperstown, with the Rev. Nathan P. Ritter, rector, officiating. Immediately following the service there will be a reception in the Parish Hall. Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.
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largest undertaking for the nonprofit’s goal to offer experiential events to wider audiences across the region— events that go beyond performances to immersive and participatory experiences that celebrate different cultures.
Next, Cooperstown Concerts presented its first “doubleheader” concert series during Cooperstown Winter Carnival Weekend, featuring two rock and roll tribute bands celebrating Tom Petty and The Allman Brothers. These high-energy shows helped everyone chase the winter blues away as they forgot the frigid temps for a few hours and danced and sang the night away in the warm company of friends, family, and fellow music lovers.
The nonprofit closed its season in April with a performance by Cerus Quartet, an emerging and award-winning ensemble dedicated to showcasing the saxophone in classical and contemporary music. Cerus is also dedicated to arts education for young students. Before its concert at the Fenimore Art Museum theater, the dynamic group spent time with 400 Cooperstown Central School students, presenting a free, interactive program to show students all different kinds of repertoire that the saxophone quartet can play.
Of course, the season’s success was built on more than outstanding talent—it’s also thanks to strong support from attendees, sponsors, donors, partners and the organization’s volunteer board. As a result of this support, Cooperstown Concerts is further building on its momentum to ensure that our region remains a creative, inclusive, and inspiring home for live music, now and for generations to come. For more information, or to offer your support as a donor or volunteer, visit CooperstownConcerts. org. Cooperstown Concerts’ 2026-2027 season will launch in early fall.
Randy Smith is the president of Cooperstown Concerts.
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nity for more than three decades, views those shifts as familiar patterns rather than signs of decline.
“Stormy,” he said. “I can’t say that it has ever really been all that different.”
Barrett shared a similar perspective, noting that while the scene has changed, the B Side continues to anchor it.
“The B Side is definitely the hub for small, intimate shows and has been for a while,” he said.
For independent artists, venues like the B Side play a crucial role. Barrett emphasized their importance as creative incubators and community spaces.
“These venues are where new songs get tested live and where stage presence develops,” Barrett said. “Most
importantly, these spaces give musicians a sense of belonging.”
That sense of belonging extends beyond performers. Local partnerships— particularly with music programs at SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College—have helped sustain audiences and foster collaboration, especially as touring became more difficult nationwide following the pandemic.
Mark Pawkett, a longtime Oneonta musician and SUNY Oneonta faculty member, pointed to the B Side as a vital downtown presence.
“When the General Clinton Pub went under, we lost that venue,” Pawkett said. “When the B Side opened, it came back—much fancier, though.”
The guitarist described it as a place where people can “sit down, eat good food and watch a show,” making it welcoming to a wide range of audiences, including those who may not feel comfortable in traditional bar settings.
While Oneonta is often defined by its student population, the Carringtons originally envisioned the B Side as a venue for adults who felt overlooked by the downtown nightlife scene.
“Our intention was singular; to open a place for adults,”
Wayne Carrington said. The club owners were hoping to engage a population “starved for connection, and curated experiences.”
Over time, the space has naturally evolved into one where students and longtime residents regularly share tables, performances, and conversations.
“We treat everyone the same,” he said, asking only that guests respect the venue and the community it serves.
Those cross-generational connections are most visible during performances. When asked whether he has seen meaningful interactions form between students and older residents, Carrington’s answer was immediate.
“Every show!” he
replied.
One moment that continues to stand out for him occurred during a performance by Julian Lage and Chris Eldridge, when more than 120 people sat together in near silence.
“You could hear a pin drop,” he remarked.
For Wayne and Rebecca Carrington, experiences like that capture the essential role small venues play in shaping the identity of a place.
“I believe they are the

heart,” he observed.
After more than a decade in downtown Oneonta, the B Side Ballroom and Supper Club has become exactly that—a steady, intentional presence where music, conversation and community continue to meet.
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.
The Village is seeking responsible caretakers for both parks during the summer months. Caretakers help oversee daily park operations and serve as a friendly point of contact for the public. In return, caretakers receive on-site housing plus a weekly stipend—a unique opportunity to live and work in one of Cooperstown’s most scenic settings. Seasonal salary for the positions are $7,800 for 3 Mile and $6,600 for Fairy Spring.
For more information and to obtain an application contact the Village Office at (607) 547-2411 or a letter of interest and resume may be sent to Jenna Utter, Village Clerk, Village of Cooperstown, P.O. Box 346, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. EOE.

FULL-TIME, YEAR ROUND POSITION
Qualified applicants will be knowledgeable in the care and feeding of museum livestock and farm animals. They will assist with maintenance, care and upkeep of barns, outbuildings, and fencing, along with planting, maintaining, and harvesting field demonstration plots and gardens. Knowledge of hand operated and mechanical equipment is necessary. Experience working with the public to provide a pleasant, informative atmosphere. Ability to lift 50 lbs. Excellent benefit package, including health and dental insurance, pension plan, vacation, holiday and sick pay. $40 - $50K per year, based on experience.
Please forward application to Mary Myers, Fenimore Farm, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or email mary.myers@fenimoreart.org.



FULL-TIME, YEAR ROUND POSITION
This position requires a minimum of 40 hours per week, a clean NYS Driver License and a NYS Security Guard Registration Card. In addition to identifying and addressing all security and safety needs of the Fenimore Art Museum and Fenimore Farm, the position includes coordinating the hiring, training and evaluating of all security staff. Scheduling, first aid and CPR training, implementing all OSHA mandated programs and ensuring there is always the minimum staff required for 24-hour coverage is required, as are other duties. Excellent written and verbal skills, management or supervisory experience and the ability to work overtime when necessary. A background in law enforcement preferred. EOE Salary range $55,000 - $65,000.
Please send a resume or letter of interest and a completed application to: Mary Myers, Fenimore Art Museum, PO Box 800, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Applications can be found online at fenimoreartmuseum.org or fenimorefarm.org.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum is currently accepting applications for:
Part-time/Seasonal, Membership & Visitor Services Associate $16.00/hr.
Working at the National Baseball Hall of Fame is a career experience unlike any other. We are looking for passionate individuals to join our team and help welcome fans to the home of baseball.
This is a seasonal position running from May through August, with some potential opportunities to continue into the fall. As the face of the Museum, you will focus on providing Hall of Fame caliber customer service to visitors throughout the Museum, at the ticket booth and at the information desk.
A flexible schedule is required, including some evenings, weekends and holidays.
If interested, please visit baseballhall.org/careers to complete an application.








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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.
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
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 FORMATION OF H&K 449 Main Street Properties LLC.
Filed 9/16/25. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail POB 1238, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful. 6LegalMay.7
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Elkan Family Farm, LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on: March 22, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 2224 County Route 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalMay.7
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF MARINO & SEGAR PROPERTIES LLC.
Filed with SSNY on 03/23/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 27 WEST END AVE., ONEONTA, NY 13820. Purpose: Any Lawful. 6LegalMay.7
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY:
The name of the limited liability company is: CALAMA Management, LLC (the “Company”). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was March 19, 2026. The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Company to CALAMA Management, LLC, 38 Nokomis Avenue, Oakland, NJ 07436. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.
6LegalMay.7
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Name:
EAST HILL 95 LLC
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 2 March 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 192 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalMay.7
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY:
The name of the limited liability company is: Boundless Courage, LLC (the “Company”). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was April 2, 2026. The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may
be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Company to Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, Attn: Christina J. Graziadei, Binghamton, NY 13901. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.
6LegalMay.14
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF
92 MAIN ST COOP LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the SSNY on 2/25/2026.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copies of process to 92 Main St Coop LLC, 6098 St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalMay.14
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF NOM NOM ENTERPRISES LLC
Article of Organizations filed with the SSNY on 2/14/2026.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copies of process to Member, 6098 State Hwy 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalMay.14
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF PIONEER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC
Article of Organization filed with the SSNY on 3/5/2026.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copies of process to The LLC, 29 Pioneer St., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalMay.14
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF KTR Construction LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on April 2, 2026. Office location is
in Otsego County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to 639 Green Road, Otego, New York 13825. Purpose: any lawful activity.
6LegalMay.14
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF HARBOR PHYSICIAN SERVICES, PLLC.
Art. of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) 04/02/2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 48 Monroe Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820
Purpose: To practice the profession of medicine.
6LegalMay.28
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF
TALBOT PROPERTIES LLC.
Filed with SSNY on 04/13/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 2187 CNTY. HWY. 4, GILBERTSVILLE, NY 13776. Purpose: Any Lawful.
6LegalMay.28
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Hill City Hitting Center, LLC, a limited liability company (the “LLC”).
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (the “SSNY”) on 4/15/2026. Office location: Otsego County. The SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC, upon whom process against it may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to the LLC, 253 Southside Drive, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purposes: any lawful activity.
6LegalMay.28
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Grounded Minds Mental Health Counseling, PLLC.
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York
(SSNY) on May 6, 2025. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: 29 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: to practice mental health counseling and any lawful act or activity for which a professional limited liability company may be organized under the laws of New York.
6LegalMay.28
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF DESIGNING OTHERWISE, LLC.
Articles of Organization filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/9/2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at 107 Haggerty Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalMay.28
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINg
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Historic Preservation and Architectural Review Board for the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard:
• Meeting to be held in the Board Room of the Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York.
9 Eagle St. - Application for demolition of enclosed stairway addition and masonry chimney
The plans for this project are on file with the Village Clerk’s Office at the Village Office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York, and may be seen during regular office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Public comments must be provided by email to the Zoning Officer at Zoning@ cooperstownny. gov or by regular mail to the address below no later than Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
Nick Fornario Zoning Enforcement Officer
Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326
607-547-2411 Zoning@cooperstownny.gov 1LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF HEARINg ON THE EIgHT YEAR REVIEW OF AgRICULTURE DISTRICT #1 2026 AND INCLUSION OF LAND INTO CERTIFIED AgRICULTURAL DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held by the Board of Representatives of Otsego County, State of New York, in the Representatives’ Chambers at the County Office Building in the Village of Cooperstown, New York, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 9:50 a.m. upon the agricultural district located in the Towns of Burlington, Butternuts, Cherry Valley, Decatur, Edmeston, Exeter, Hartwick, Laurens, Maryland, Middlefield, Milford, Morris, New Lisbon, Oneonta, Otsego, Pittsfield, Plainfield, Richfield, Roseboom, Springfield, Unadilla, Westford, Worcester; the Villages of Cherry Valley, Cooperstown, Gilbertsville, Milford, Otego, Richfield Springs, Unadilla, known as Agricultural District No. 1. Moreover, to consider the recommendations of the Otsego County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board. This request has been filed with the County legislature, pursuant to Section 303-b of the Agriculture and Markets Law.
The recommendation of the Otsego County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board may be examined at the Otsego County Planning Department at the Meadows Building, 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown, New York during regular business hours, or on the county’s website at: https://www. otsegocountyny. gov/departments/ planning_department/agriculture. php
Description of District; Otsego County Agricultural District No. 1, containing approximately 188,864 acres, is located in the towns of Burlington, Butternuts, Cherry Valley, Decatur, Edmeston, Exeter, Hartwick, Laurens, Maryland, Middlefield, Milford, Morris, New Lisbon, Oneonta, Otsego,
Pittsfield, Plainfield, Richfield, Roseboom, Springfield, Unadilla, Westford, Worcester; the Villages of Cherry Valley, Cooperstown, Gilbertsville, Milford, Otego, Richfield Springs, Unadilla.
8-Year Review Recommendations: Otsego County received requests from seven land owners, 14 parcels, to request inclusions of approximately 399.93 acres of viable agricultural land to be included within Agricultural District #1 within Otsego County. Moreover, Otsego County received requests from thirty-three land owners, 36 parcels request to remove 581.73 acres
30-Day Open Enrollment Recommendations: Otsego County received requests from five landowners, 14 parcels, to request inclusions of approximately 570.57 acres of viable agricultural land located in the Towns of Otsego, Oneonta, Otego, Springfield, and Burlington; to be included in Agricultural District #1 within Otsego County.
All parties in interest and citizens will be heard by the Otsego County Board of Representatives at the public hearing. The location of the public hearing is accessible to persons with mobility impairment.
A listing of the parcels to be included and the recommendation of the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board may be examined at the Otsego County Planning Department at 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown, New York during regular business hours.
The public hearing will be streamed via Youtube on the official Otsego County Youtube page: https:// www.youtube. com/@otsegocountynewyork/ live
Dated: April 13, 2026
Carol D. McGovern Clerk of the Board Representatives Otsego County, New York 1LegalApr.30
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Reborn Hope LLC
Articles of Org. filed with the SSNY on 4/7/2026. 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, 140 Sanly Rd., Unadilla, NY 13849. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalJun.4
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SUNFLOWER SLG LLC filed with the Secretary of State on April 26, 2026. Office Location is in Otsego County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to P.O. Box 21, Springfield Center, NY 13468. Purpose: any lawful activity.
6LegalJun.4
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NOTICE OF ELECTION OF FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFICERS
PLEASE TAKE
NOTICE, that having received nominations for offices to be filled in the Cooperstown Fire Department you are hereby notified that the Election of Officers will take place on Monday, May 11, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cooperstown Fire Hall, 24 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, New York. Voting is only open to Cooperstown Fire Department members. Voting is not open to the general public. Nominees and positions to be filled are as follows:
1. Chief: William Smith
2. First Assistant Chief: Victor Jones
3. Second Assistant Chief: Christopher Satriano
4. Four Fire Captains: -Jonathan Roach -Anthony Ferrara -Joel Bostwick -Henry Stewart
5. President: Monica Carrascoso
6. Vice-President: Chad Bellanger Glenn Falk
7. Secretary: Karen Prager
8. Treasurer: Sheila Serbay
9. Fire Police Captain: James Tallman
10. Fire Police Lieutenant: James Leslie
Tellers will be: James Patrick; Frank King; and Emma Leslie
Dated: April 28, 2026 1LegalApr.30

Graphic provided
Changes in the unemployment rate over the past five years of recovery from COVID. Malone
Continued from page 4 take jobs away from law abiding Americans. He also thinks that you and I don’t pay the cost of tariffs, and that inflation is imaginary.
The collapse of the American Dream has been ignored by every politician but one. President Trump’s Make America Great Again mantra acknowledged the disconnect between myth and reality and used it to come to power.
Each successive generation is now poorer than each previous generation, and the policies being pursuing by the president are worsening that prospect instead of reversing it.
The chart above shows changes in the unemployment rate over the past five years of recovery from COVID with a current rate of 4.3 percent. That’s low by historical standards, and normally a sign of a thriving economy. But digging deeper into other employment evidence gives a different picture.
The U.S. Labor Force consists of 172 million workers. But the U.S. economy created just 15,000 new jobs on average for each month in 2025. Last year was one of the worst in our history for job creation. That’s why the unemployment rate for college graduates seeking their first full-time job was 8.2 percent. So why did the overall unemployment rate remain so low?
The answer is UNDERemployment, which is when your job requires less skill than your training and work experience. A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that 42.5 percent of all 2025 college graduates are underemployed.
The labor market experience of Gen Z (born between 1997-2012) is defined by underemployment in what they have taken to calling the “Gig Economy.” And the adoption of artificial intelligence in workplaces is starting to displace older workers. This makes for rising underemployment in Gens X (born 1965-1980) and Y (born 1981-1996). In simple terms, when your job is eliminated by AI, it becomes more likely that you can only find work that requires less skill at lower pay. Rising underemployment among all workers goes hand in hand with the War on Immigration. As recent immigrants are deported or driven into the shadows, first time workers and workers displaced by AI will be shifting into jobs previously held by immigrants. This is touted as a positive development by the president because he thinks immigrants
What are those jobs?
The top seven occupations with the highest share of foreign-born workers are: 1) food preparation and service; 2) building and grounds cleaning; 3) construction; 4) transportation, warehouse and materials handling; 5) healthcare support and aides; 6) production workers; and 7) agricultural workers. These hands-on occupations are less vulnerable to the adoption of AI. If underemployed workers replace recent immigrants in these jobs, it creates the false impression that things are great because the overall unemployment rate remains low.
People who know me well have always been struck by my “glass half full” optimism, which is unusual for an economist. But the workplace reality facing our children, their children and our grandchildren makes me pessimistic. We are rapidly falling into the abyss of a national crisis of permanent underemployment.
Chronic underemployment means a lifetime of work that requires lower skill and offers lower pay. That translates into lower Social Security and 401 retirement contributions, and an inability to afford healthcare and housing. Far from greatness, we’re facing instead a steeper and irreversible decline in our standard of living and the end of the American Dream.
Larry Malone is professor emeritus of economics at Hartwick College.
Continued from page 4
dren/teens and two Festival Resident Artists—was written by Ben Moore with a libretto by Kelley Rourke. Our pre-performance program will begin at 10 a.m. and include a campus tour and preparation for the show with artists involved in preparing or performing in the show. The guild will serve a simple lunch, and participants will receive free tickets to balcony seats.
This youth opera was first performed in 2017. It can hold the interest of young children. Older students (and adults who have never seen an opera before) will also enjoy it and may enjoy seeing their peers on the main stage of the theater.
Shaelyn Rice accounted for two of Norwich’s three hits, but the Purple Tornadoes were unable to string together offense against Mistler and a steady Yellowjackets defense.
The Yellowjackets added insurance runs in the fifth inning. Paige Little reached base to lead off the frame, and Lila Jipson later drove her in with a powerful triple to left field. Jipson then scored on a sacrifice fly by Julia Gallusser to extend the lead to 4-0.
ciate the music (vocal and instrumental), acting, scenery, costumes, makeup, hair design, lighting, and storytelling at The Glimmerglass Festival this summer, please register your students and yourself (as chaperone) for one or both of these guild events. You won’t know if you like opera and musical theater until you try them out!
Kathleen Eisele Chair, Education/ Community Engagement Committee, Guild of the Glimmerglass Festival
In the April 17, 2026 article published on AllOtsego.com titled “Oneonta Common Council Approves Airport Cost Increase, Purchase of New-Used Fire Truck,” Elayne Mosher Campoli should have been identified as the individual who acknowledged the Oneonta Woman Trailblazer Awards at the conclusion of the April 7 Common Council meeting. Campoli is the liaison to the Commission on Community Relations and Human Rights, which conducted the ceremony. We apologize for the error. The full article can be found on AllOtsego.com
Continued from page 1
Norwich’s Kira Quattrocchi matched Mistler early, and the game remained scoreless through three innings as both teams struggled to generate offense. That changed in the bottom of the fourth inning when Oneonta began to capitalize on timely hitting.
Kendall LeFever jump-started the rally with a single to center field that brought home the game’s first run. A few batters later, Alaina Brown followed with a sharp double down the left-field line, driving in another run and giving the Yellowjackets a 2-0 lead.
With run support behind her, Mistler continued to settle in. She went the distance, throwing a completegame shutout. Mistler allowed just three hits, struck out six and walked one, consistently working out of trouble when runners reached base.

If you and some of the students in your life are interested in an opportunity to explore whether or not you would appre-

Offensively, Oneonta finished with nine hits. Jipson and Little each recorded two hits, while LeFever and Brown both delivered key RBIs in the middle innings.
In the tournament’s other opening-round game, Sidney outlasted Bainbridge-Guilford 9-7 to advance to the championship, setting up a championship game matchup with Oneonta.
The Yellowjackets wasted little time asserting themselves in the final game, erupting for a 13-2 win over the Sabers. Oneonta’s offense came alive, combining consistent contact with aggressive base running to pull away early and put the game out of reach.
Alaina Brown led the Yellowjackets’ offensive surge, going a perfect three-for-three with three RBIs and a run scored. Brown delivered consistent production throughout the lineup as Oneonta opened the game up early and never looked back.
Kendall LeFever and Peyton Little each hit triples. Little finished two-for-two with two RBIs and a run scored, while LeFever drove in two runs and crossed the plate twice. Kylie Carr was also a catalyst at the top of the order, going two-for-two and scoring three runs. Carley Mistler added a hit and scored a run in the victory.
In the circle, Jenevie Gallusser earned the win with a strong fiveinning performance. The sophomore allowed just two2 hits, struck out four and walked one as she limited Sidney’s offense throughout the game.
Sabers pitcher Teagan Stanton-Helms took the loss, surrendering 10 hits and three walks while striking out three batters.
Several players from both teams earned tournament all-star recognition.
For the Oneonta Yellowjackets, Carr, Gallusser and Mistler were named SFCU AllTournament Team selections. Sidney’s Trinity Lowe, Lexi Mott and Maddox Johnson also earned all-star honors.
The tournament title marked a strong earlyseason statement for Oneonta, which showed balance throughout the day with pitching, defense and depth in the lineup. The Yellowjackets’ ability to execute in key moments across both




games underscored their preparation and poise as they continue into the regular season.
Following the SFCU title, the varsity girls team went on to defeat Windsor Central by a score of 9-2 in a Southern Tier Athletic Conference East Division game at Windsor on April 21.
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.
Continued from page 1
and equipment totaling $150,000.00; and the district has a long list of smaller things that we’ve cut affecting everything at our school district,” Rickard said.
Maintaining a “fairly flat” revenue structure, Rickard said that local property taxes account for 66 percent of revenue and state aid 31 percent. She said revenue has only increased by around $350,000.00.
To raise necessary revenue, the district is considering regionalization initiatives that partner with other districts to provide certain services, tuitioning in students from other areas, and fundraising.
“An important consideration is the community’s willingness to support tax increases above the cap in 2027,” Rickard said.
Reserves will help address the shortfall this year.
“We were fortunate, because those funds stabilize the situation for a period of time, and without them, we would have reached this point sooner,” Rickard said.
The district is budgeting for drawing down as much as $3 million from its reserves in 2027.
“So we have to look at solutions, both on the revenue side and on the expense side, because we can’t manage ourselves out of this by reducing expenses,” Franck said. “We have to look for sources of revenue.”
One former school board member, Tim Hayes, expressed some disagreement during public comment. He asserted that Cooperstown’s cost per student is not really high, urged a reduction in administrative staff, and doubted the efficacy of collabo-
rating with other districts or tuitioning in students to cover the impending $3 million gap.
“So I come back to the issue of personnel and remind people that on my last day here, I spoke very passionately about curriculum, and starting every conversation about curriculum,” Hayes said. Representatives of the Cooperstown Faculty Association, the union representing the district’s teachers, told AllOtsego that the organization supports the budget.
In 2024, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced the release of the Community Reforestation Grant, a program to develop, expand and restore forested natural areas in or near urban communities across New York State. The Upper Susquehanna Coalition applied for the CoRe grant on behalf of three Soil and Water Conservation Districts, including the Otsego County SWCD. In Otsego County, the City of Oneonta has 41 unforested acres located off East Street that are not forested and are eligible for the CoRe grant. According to OCSWCD officials, the project will include the removal of honeysuckle in the fall of 2026, mowing the site in the spring of 2027, and followed by planting in the fall of 2027. The planting will consist of 17,850 stems of hardwood trees and shrubs. After each listed step, a DEC forester will inspect and give approval for said planting. For maintenance, the site will be mowed twice a year to reduce plant competition. Yearly monitoring will be implemented to ensure the survival rate is 75 percent, officials said. The goal of the project is to provide recreational opportunities, improve water and air quality, provide wildlife habitat, reduce stormwater runoff, and sequester carbon. According to officials, by successfully implementing this project, the OCSWCD and its partners hope to improve the quality of life of the citizens of Oneonta and Otsego County.
►Friday, May 1
HUNTING 1/2 hour before sunrise to noon. Spring Turkey Season is held from May 1 to May 31. (518) 402-8883.
BENEFIT Noon to 6 p.m. Native Plant Sale. Proceeds benefit Super Heroes Humane Society. Hartwick College Greenhouse, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta.
ADULT EDUCA -
TION 1:30 p.m. “Animal Sheltering.” Presented by Stacie Haynes. Tour the Susquehanna SPCA campuses, including the companion animal facility and the new farm. Fees may apply; registration required. Continues on 5/8 and 5/15. Center for Continuing Adult Learning, Oneonta. (607) 4417370.
POTTERY 1:304:30 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.
PLANTING 3:30 p.m. Arbor Day Celebration tree planting in memory of Ron and Susie Streek. Held by the Village of Cooperstown. Upper Main Street, Cooperstown. jutter@cooperstownny.gov
AGING 4 p.m. “Planning for Successful Aging: Importance of Establishing Advanced Directives.” Hosted by Ryan Coutlee, Esq., of Coutlee Law Office. The Meadows Office Complex, Classroom A, 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown. (607) 547-4232.
OPENING RECEPTION 5-8 p.m. “Impressions” art exhibit. “First Friday” event. Show runs through 5/31. 25 Main Collective, 21 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-5340.
MOVIE NIGHT 5 p.m. “Not So Pretty.” Narrated
by Keke Palmer. View a documentary on the American cosmetics industry, then discuss who really pays the cost of beauty. Free admission. Presented by Gotham City Outpost, Southside Mall, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta.
FUNDRAISER 5-8 p.m. “Family Dance and Night Out.” Music, dancing, face painting, photo booth, games and more. Fees apply. Supports the Class of 2030. Students must be accompanied by an adult. Laurens Central School, 55 Main Street, Laurens.
YOUTH 5:30-7:30 p.m. “Unadilla Little League Opening Ceremony.” By donation. Unadilla RDC Fields, Unadilla.
FUNDRAISER
6-8 p.m. Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser for “Lion King Jr.” Fees apply. Presented by Orpheus Theatre, 22 W Broadway, Oneonta. (607) 432-1800.
OPEN MIC 6 p.m. Hosted by The Telegraph School at the Cherry Valley Old School Café, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3785.
CONCERT/RECORDING 7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m. “Songs from the Black Hole.” Live concert and recording series featuring Allie Sandt, with special guests Planeview. Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.
FULL MOON
7 p.m. Full Moon Party to celebrate the Flower Moon. Origins Café, 558 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 4372862.
THEATER 7:30 p.m.
Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” Tickets required. Also showing at 7:30 p.m. on 5/2 and at 2 p.m. on 5/3. Tri-Town Theatre, 95 West Main Street, Sidney.
THEATER 7:30 p.m.
“A Day In Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine.”
Tickets required. Also showing at 2 p.m. on 5/2. Presented by Mask
and Hammer Theatre
Club and SUNY Oneonta Theatre Department, 106 Fine Arts Center, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 436-3414.
CONCERT 7:30 p.m.
“A Night of Glory and Grace: Antonio Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ and Maurice Duruflé’s ‘Requiem.’”
Performed by the Catskill Choral Society. Tickets required. Also showing at 3 p.m. on 5/2. First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 386-5151.
CONTRADANCE
7:30 p.m. Featuring caller Hilton Baxter; music provided by Miss Marty and SGB. Presented by the Otsego Dance Society. Fees apply. First Presbyterian Church, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8164.
►Saturday, May 2
SATURDAY HIKE All day. Scenic excursion with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring a packed lunch, snacks and water. Dress appropriately and bring equipment for the weather/trail conditions. Pre-registration required. This week’s hike will be Pine Lake to Mud Lake at Robert V. Riddell State Park, Davenport. (607) 431-8010.
OUTDOORS 7-9 a.m. “Birding with Becky.” Presented by Otsego County Conservation Association. Registration required. Mohican Farm, 7207 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5474488.
YARD SALE 9 a.m. Community-wide yard sale. Includes book sale, basket raffle and bake sale at the Edmeston Free Library. Held in the communities of Edmeston and Burlington. (607) 965-8208.
PARKS “I Love My Park Day!” Plant flowers, remove litter, conduct trail maintenance and otherwise beautify local parks. Registration required.
• 9 a.m. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Road 31, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8662.
• 9 a.m. to noon. Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Road, Laurens. (607) 432-2114.
OUTDOORS 9 a.m. Guided Hike to Mud Lake.” Free. Hartwick College, Pine Lake Campus, 1894 Charlotte Creek Road, Oneonta. (607) 431-4520.
PISTOL PERMITS
9 a.m. to noon. Saturday pistol permit services. First Saturday of each month. Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, 172 County Highway 33 West, Cooperstown. (607) 5474271.
CONSERVATION
10 a.m. Tree Planting. Wear sturdy footwear and dress for the weather during this session of planting in the riparian area along the creekside. Bring your own lunch and digging tool. Led by the Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District at 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 5478337 ext. 4.
MOTHER’S DAY
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 14th Annual Vendor Fair: “Mother’s Day Madness.” Presented by Unadilla Forks Fire Department Auxiliary at Unadilla Ford Community Park Blue Building, 121 County Highway 18A, West Winfield.
WORKSHOP 10 a.m. Basket Making Workshop. Learn the basics by creating your own berry basket. Tickets required. Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.

WORKSHOP 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wire Wrap Beaded Suncatcher. Fees apply; registration required. All materials provided. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
WORKSHOP 1-4 p.m.
Make a stained glass bird or abstract art. Continues 5/3. Fees apply; registration required. Main View Gallery and Studios, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890.
OPERA 1 p.m.; discussion starts 45 minutes prior. “Eugene Onegin.” Live HD broadcast from The Metropolitan Opera. Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
LIBRARY 2 p.m.
“Book Planter Box.” Make book planter boxes out of old hardcover novels, for fake arrangements. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Highway 11, Hartwick. (607) 2936600.
BENEFIT 3-6 p.m.
Chili Cook-Off and Basket
Raffle. To benefit 9-yearold Olivia Young, who is currently in kidney failure. Fees apply. Presented by Otsego Cares at the Otego Fire Department, 5 River Street, Otego.
ARTIST TALK 4 p.m.
Discussion with artists behind “Dream Dance of Bees: The World We Live In” on the final day of the exhibit. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. canoneonta.org
BENEFIT 6 p.m.; 5:15 p.m. preview. Quarter Auction to support the GMU Marching Band and Color Guard. Refreshments available. Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School, 693 State Highway 51 Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2207.
FILM 6-8 p.m. “Lessons from 100: Reflections in My Centennial Year.” Presented by the Lions Club of Cooperstown. Tickets required. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, 25 Main Street, Cooperstown.
CONCERT 7:30 p.m. “A Night of Glory and Grace: Antonio Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ and Maurice Duruflé’s ‘Requiem.’” Performed by the Catskill Choral Society. Tickets required. Also showing at 3 p.m. on 5/2. First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 386-5151.
►Sunday, May 3
BREAKFAST 8 a.m. to noon. VFW Auxiliary Pancake Breakfast. Pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee and juice. Breakfast by donation. Proceeds go toward scholarships, holiday boxes, and helping local soldiers and families. Veteran’s Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown.
BENEFIT 9-11 a.m. “Colie’s 5K Fire Run/ Walk.” Fees apply; registration required. Starts/ ends at the Richfield Springs Fire Department, 34 East James Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 922-4881.
DINNER 11 a.m.
to 1:30 p.m. Chicken and biscuit dinner with mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, cranberry sauce, and strawberries and vanilla ice cream dessert. Fees apply. Laurens Masonic Lodge, 7 Brook Street, Laurens. STAR WARS Noon to 5 p.m. “Star Wars Day 2026.” Trivia, costume contest, feature film, animated shorts and more. Free. Worcester Wieting Theatre, 168 Main Street, Worcester. worcesterwieting@gmail.com.
LIVE MUSIC 1-3 p.m. “Sunday Sessions with Khalil Jade.” The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111.
ARTS & CULTURE
2-5 p.m. Exhibit openings, demonstrations and live music. info@bvartscenter. org or bvartscenter.org
• “Working Hands” exhibit opening. Butternut Valley Arts and Crafts Center, 124 Main Street, Morris.
• “A New Settlement, A New Nation.” Artists will be on hand to discuss their work and its place in the retelling of the birth of a nation. Morris Historical Society Museum, 89 South Broad Street, Morris.
CELEBRATION 3 p.m. Klezmer Concert in Celebration of Temple Beth El’s 90th Anniversary. Featuring nationally recognized ensemble “The Big Galut(e).” Opening remarks by Oneonta Mayor Dan Buttermann. Fees apply. Temple Beth El of Oneonta, 83 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 222-5687.
GARDENING
3-5 p.m. “The Gift of Seed.” Community seedgifting ceremony hosted by Fruition Seeds. Potluck to follow. Donations accepted. Origins Café, 558 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 4372862. TEA TIME 3-5 p.m. “Afternoon Tea with a Twist.” Curated selection of teas paired with a creative menu. Fees apply; reservations required. The Otesaga Resort Hotel, 60 Lake Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5479931.
CONCERT 4 p.m. “SUNY Oneonta Rock Combo Concert.” Tickets required. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
MUSIC 7 p.m. “Oneonta Kirtan: Interfaith Devotional Music Meditation.” Held first Sunday of each month. First Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, 296 Main Street, Oneonta.
►Monday, May 4
TRAVEL INFORMA -
TION 11 a.m. “The Taste of Italy” tour. Trip to be held 10/21-28, 2027, led by Phyllis Orlowski. Informational meeting presented by Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Road 52, Cooperstown. (607) 2820080.
ADULT EDUCATION 11:30 a.m. “Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program.” Presented by Kelly Morrisey. Fees may apply; registration required. Continues on 5/18. Center for Continuing Adult Learning, Oneonta. (607) 441-7370.
ADULT EDUCATION 1 p.m. “The Best Movies You Have Never Heard Of.” Presented by Todd Jones. Fees may apply; registration required. Continues on 5/11. Center for Continuing Adult Learning, Oneonta. (607) 441-7370.
WORKSHOP—5:30 p.m. “Canva Class Series: Creating Social Media Graphics.” Free; registration required. Bring your own laptop/tablet for hands-on learning. Continues 5/18. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Road 11, Hartwick. (607) 2936600.
CRAFT 6:30 p.m. “Make and Take Workshop: Living Wreaths.” Fees apply; registration required. All supplies included. Oneonta Federated Garden Club at St. James Church, 305 Main Street, Oneonta.
CONCERT 7:30 p.m. Hartwick-SUNY Orchestra Concert. Anderson Theater, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta.