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HAPPY 250th BIRTHDAY, AMERICA! VISIT www.ALLOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER/ONLINE Volume 218, No. 27

Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, July 2, 2026

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Otsego Town Officials Send Comprehensive Plan Back to Committee for Another Look By DEBRA MOFFITT

FLY CREEK he Town of Otsego will take a second look at proposed changes to its comprehensive plan after the blueprint for land-use laws drew complaints from residents and a Manhattan developer who owns hundreds of acres. “I’m just saying let’s go back to the table on this,” Town Council member Pat Kennedy said at a June 24 working session. Council members agreed to pull the draft comprehensive plan from the town’s Planning

Board and return it to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. Some town officials have stressed that the comprehensive plan represents a broad vision, but critics point to its specific recommendations. At a town council meeting this month, residents who operate short-term rentals voiced concerns about a proposal to adopt restrictions like those in the Village of Cooperstown, which require owner-occupancy of the rental units. Property owners who rent properties in Otsego County depend on that income, several residents said. Taking Continued on page 9

Military Legacy Lives on through Family’s Preservation Efforts By PEYTON CARTER

OTSEGO COUNTY very summer, a couple from just outside Detroit, Michigan returns to Otsego County carrying soft brushes, conservation cleaner and decades of family research. Their mission is not simply to clean old headstones, but to preserve the lives and legacies of the Civil War soldiers buried beneath them. For the wife, Jeanne K. (Dagg) Marble, whose family has traced its roots in the region for generations, the annual trips began with a lesson from her mother. “My mother always said she did family history rather than genealogy,” she said. “She wanted to know who people were, not just their names and dates.” That philosophy eventually led Jeanne to the graves of six Union soldiers who were all part of her family’s story. Jeanne’s first visit to Fly Creek Valley INSIDE

► Celebrating America at 250, page 2 ► PRESERVING Family honor, page 3 ► kicking down barriers, page 4 ► southside strength, page 5 ► unrest in otsego county, page 9 ► more manocherian, page 14 ► rivera’s resolve, page 14 Follow Breaking News On

at 19 after working as a farmhand and turning his wages over to help support his mother. Serving with the 121st New York Infantry, he was written in the company record of Missing in Action at Salem Church, Virginia in 1863, shortly after his 20th birthday, before it was confirmed he was Killed in Action in Fredericksburg. His death left his mother dependent on a military pension. James rests beside his brothers, William F. Lindsay and David Griffiths Lindsay, who also answered the call to serve. William survived a gunshot wound at Fredericksburg and bouts of typhoid fever before returning home on a disability pension, while David endured repeated hospitalizations for disease, later serving as a military nurse before returning to Fly Creek after the Photo provided war. Together, the three brothers repreJann Dagg and Brianna Marble place flags and Indian corn on the monument for James M. Lindsay during a 2005 visit to the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery. Lindsay was a Civil War sent one family’s extraordinary sacrifice during the Civil War. soldier killed in action at Fredericksburg in May 1863. He had just turned 20 years old. Another ancestor, Lewis H. Allen, Cemetery in 1992 remains unforget- she placed Indian corn on his headstone served as a bugler with the 6th New table. Standing at the grave of her to show he was still remembered. Continued on page 8 beloved ancestor, James M. Lindsay, James enlisted in the Union Army

Kennedy To Retire after Three Decades of Service

ONEONTA pringbrook announces the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Patricia E. Kennedy, concluding an extraordinary career spanning more than 30 years of service to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families, and communities Springbrook serves, officials said in a press release issued on Monday, June 29. Kennedy’s retirement marks the conclusion of a transformative chapter in Springbrook’s history, during which Kennedy guided Springbrook through a period of growth and innovation, expanding the organization from a small local provider of

Photo provided

PATRICIA E. KENNEDY

approximately 200 employees into a leading regional agency with more than 1,200 employees, a $100 million operating budget,

and services supporting more than 1,400 people of all ages across multiple regions. “It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve Springbrook and the people who guide our mission,” Kennedy said. “I am deeply grateful for the people we support, their families, our dedicated staff, community partners, and donors whose commitment and generosity have made our shared accomplishments possible.” Prior to becoming CEO, Kennedy served in several educational leadership roles, including director of education for The School at Springbrook. As CEO, Kennedy focused extensively on strategic plan-

ning, systems development and mission-driven growth. Among her many accomplishments, Kennedy established Otsego County’s first fully integrated preschool program, Kids Unlimited Preschool, now recognized as a model for inclusive early childhood education. She also spearheaded Springbrook’s most ambitious capital effort, the development of the Tom Golisano Center for Autism, a transformative initiative that brought children and young adults with autism back to New York State from out-ofstate placements and expanded access to specialized supports for families across the region, Continued on page 9

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

THURSDAY, juLY 2, 2026

A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

►Friday, July 3

Butternuts. • 9 a.m. Independence Day Parade. Commercial Street. • 10 a.m. Declaration of Independence Signing Reenactment. Centennial Park. AMERICA250—Unadilla celebrates the 250th anniversary of American Independence. • 10 a.m. Parade on Main Street. • 10 a.m. to noon. Colonial demonstration, games, food, ice cream, colonial selfie booth and more. Feel free to come in costume. Library Lawn, 193 Main Street. • Noon. Opening of 1976 Time Capsule. Community House Front Lawn. INDEPENDENCE DAY— 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Independence Day Celebration. Featuring readings of The Declaration of Independence, “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death,” “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” and more. Followed by a performance of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.” Refreshments, tintype photography, demonstrations, games and more. Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown.

PRE-FOURTH CELEBRATION—3 p.m. Featuring family-fun activities, music, food, vintage baseball game, house tours and installation of the Lawrence Swart plaque by the Oneonta Chapter of the DAR. Swart-Wilcox House Museum, Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. CONCERT & MORE— Concert and America250 Celebration. Lakefront Park, Cooperstown. • 5 p.m. Face painting, food trucks and more. • 6 p.m. Cooperstown Community Concert Band. • 6:30 p.m. Free Stewart’s Ice Cream. • 8 p.m. Classic rock favorites performed by Steel Rail. • Dusk. Fireworks. AMERICA250—Celebrate America’s 250th in the Town of Butternuts • 6:30 p.m. Gilbertsville Pet Parade. Commercial Street. • 7 p.m. Ice Cream Social. Mt. Upton Community Park.

►Saturday, July 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY—Celebrate America’s 250th in the Town of

(607) 547-1450. AMERICA250—America 250 Celebration. Davenport Fire Department, 15838 State Highway 23, Davenport. • 11 a.m. Chicken barbecue to support local fire departments. • Dusk (9 p.m.). Fireworks, launched from Gerster Triple E Towing and Repair. SPRINGFIELD 4TH— Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. • 11 a.m. Annual 4th of July parade along Route 20 in Springfield Center. • Noon. Food, music and more at the Springfield Community Center, 129 County Road 29A,

Utica Zoomobile, bounce houses, wagon rides and a family movie at 7 p.m. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites, 138 Towers Road, Milford. (607) 293-7324. DEDICATION—2 p.m. Pomeroy Marker Dedication to honor the 1876 Milford Depot. Celebrate America250 and 27 years of operation on the allvolunteer Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Train Ride. 136 East Main Street, Milford. CONCERT—4 p.m. “A Quiet Concert for the 4th.” 29th annual event in honor of Louise Moore, founder of the Windfall Dutch Barn. Free. Windfall Dutch Barn, 2009-2019 County Highway 80, Fort Plain. (607) 263-5230.

Springfield Center. • 7:30-10 p.m. Evening concert and fireworks display. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown. HOMETOWN 4TH—Celebrate America’s 250th with Oneonta’s Hometown 4th of July. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. •Noon. Parade down Main Street. • Noon to 4 p.m. Tour the historic Red Caboose with the Oneonta History Center. •1 p.m. All-day festival, featuring live music, food trucks, performers, craft vendors, kids’ games and more. •Dusk. Fireworks. PLAY DAY—1:30-9 p.m. July 4th Community Play Day. Featuring the

►Sunday, July 5 ONEONTA250—1 p.m. Celebrate Oneonta250, featuring the Oneonta Concert Association at 2 p.m., a reading of the Declaration of Independence, speakers in historic costume, the Realtime Dixieland Band and more. Huntington Park, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

►Friday, July 10 AMERICA250—4-7 p.m. Chicken BBQ Dinner to celebrate the USA’s 250th Anniversary. Oneonta American Legion Post 259, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.

►Tuesday, July 14 PATRIOTICPOETRY—5 p.m. “Village Verses: America250.” Monthly multi-generational poetry appreciation group. All welcome. Cooperstown Elementary School Library, 21 Walnut Street, Cooperstown. aviva330@ gmail.com.

►Saturday, July 25 AMERICA250—All day. Laurens Day Celebration. Town wide garage sales, Utica Zoo animal booth, bubble show, grab-and-go breakfast at the Laurens Firehouse, screening of documentaries on the history of the Laurens Township. Parade at 5 p.m., live music and much more. Main Street Laurens. yreckert@yahoo. com.

Springfield To Celebrate ‘America250’ this Fourth of July SPRINGFIELD pringfield will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a full day of festivities on Saturday, July 4. Events begin at 11 a.m. with the 112th annual Fourth of July Parade, themed “America 250.” Established in 1914, Springfield’s parade is among the oldest Independence Day parades in the nation. Each year, it brings together fire departments, veterans’ groups, and community organizations from across the region for a nearly hourlong procession featuring

floats, marching bands, equestrians, and festive surprises. Prizes are awarded in several categories, including “Most Unique Entry.” Following the parade, the celebration continues at the Springfield Community Center. A flag-raising ceremony, invocation, and the singing of the National Anthem will open the program, followed by patriotic selections performed by the Cooperstown Community Band. Food offerings will include Brooks’ barbecue chicken dinners sold by the Fourth of July Committee; hot dogs,

popcorn, and homemade pie from the Springfield Presbyterian Church; coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches served at an Amish booth; and ice cream from the Future Farmers of America. Raffles will be held throughout the day. Participating organizations include the Springfield Fire Department and Fire Auxiliary, Pierstown Grange, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, and the CV-S Endowment Foundation, along with a Fourth of July Committee raffle featuring a quilt made from Fourth of July T-shirts. The Springfield

Library will feature a display of local history books, serve as a cooling station if needed, and offer outdoor sandbox play for children. Face painting will be available courtesy of the Fourth of July Committee, and the Van Hornesville

Community Corporation will host an American Revolution–era photo booth. Inside the Community Center, the Springfield Historical Society will showcase a new exhibit highlighting the service of Springfield residents

in the Revolutionary War. In the gymnasium, visitors can view local elementary students’ “America250” poster contest entries alongside an art exhibition by the Leatherstocking Brush and Palette Club. Continued on page 9

2026 Hometown 4th of July in Oneonta 250TH ANNIVERSARY FIREWORKS SPONSORED BY FIVE STAR SUBARU, LIVE MUSIC, FOOD TRUCKS, CRAFT VENDORS, BOUNCE HOUSES, ADOPTABLE ANIMALS, AND MORE! STARTS AT NOON WITH A

E F R E I O N ! PARADE DOWN MAIN STREET ALL-DAY FESTIVAL IN NEAHWA ISS M D A PARK STARTING AT 1:00 PM! MAIN STAGE PERFORMANCES BY:

HEADLINER ALEX TORRES & HIS LATIN ORCHESTRA BOBBY CURIOUS, REALTIME DIXIELAND JAZZ, CARL & JACK, AND SECOND SUITOR

FIREWORKS AT SUNDOWN PLUS: BALLOON ART, FACE-PAINTING, GAMES, PERFORMANCES ON THE BASKETBALL COURT, AND MORE!

FOLLOW HILL CITY CELEBRATIONS ON FACEBOOK FOR FULL EVENT DETAILS!

Church & Scott Pharmacy

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS: FIVE STAR SUBARU OF ONEONTA; LEAF; ANONYMOUS FOUNDATION; ANONYMOUS FOUNDATION; THE DEWAR FOUNDATION; THE TIANADERRAH FOUNDATION; FUTURE OF ONEONTA FOUNDATION; GATES HELMS HAWN; CLEINMAN CHARITABLE TRUST; STEWART’S SHOPS CORP.; SPRINGBROOK; CLARK FAMILY FOUNDATION OF DELHI; BENSON AGENCY REAL ESTATE; WAYNE BANK; LAWSON SURVEYING & MAPPING; COMMUNITY BANK; LUTZ FEED COMPANY; SCHOLET FURNITURE; THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL, HOMETOWN ONEONTA, AND ALLOTSEGO.COM; RICHARD W. WAKEMAN, INC., AND T.S. PINK CORP.

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THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

I’m Coming Home

One Man’s Quest To Restore History, Legacy and Community After falling out of the family for nearly 50 years, the Edson farmhouse was finally returned to family hands. Now, it was up to Jeff to restore it to what it once was. By BILL BELLEN MILFORD t’s a misty morning on Dorr Edson Road. Water trickles down a rocky creek as chirping birds arrive home from winter travels. Headlights suddenly pierce the fog, revealing a new gray Subaru Forester. Pulling off the road, it slows to a stop in a worn gravel driveway. A tall man in a gray Ralph Lauren sweatshirt steps out of the driver side door. Beyond him, a hill rises. On it lies seven generations of community history and family legacy—a farmhouse. Jeff Edson has returned home, and home he’s going to stay. Built in 1872, the Edson farmhouse was just the latest development in the Edson family legacy. Arriving in the late 1700s, the Edsons settled five miles east of what would become the Village of Milford, where many have stayed since. Members of the family have influenced Milford and Otsego County for generations—from John Edson’s construction of the Milford Center Baptist Church in 1828, to Frank Edson’s role in the 1907 construction of the Colliersville Dam, which formed Goodyear Lake. By the 1970s, fortunes had changed. Across the country, family farms faced headwinds from rising costs and shifting markets. Dairy farms across the United States—numbering more than 640,000 in 1970—rapidly began shuttering operations, contributing to a 93 percent decline to around 40,000 remaining by 2018. Unable to weather the storm, the Edson farm was foreclosed in 1978, leaving the family for the first time in over a century. It was with this legacy that Jeff Edson approached a neglected and largely-ruined farmhouse in 2017. At the time, he had been working in New Jersey for nearly 40 years in the healthcare sector. After getting his start at Bassett hospital in Cooperstown, Jeff ventured to Saint Joseph’s University to pursue a graduate program in healthcare. During these studies he attained a human resources management position at Lourdes Health System, building his reputation and an understanding of organizational and people needs. By the time Jeff purchased the farmhouse, he was an industry veteran and human resources director at Saint Francis Medical Center. He finally returned to the crest of Edson Hill full-time in 2022.

Photo by Bill Bellen

Jeff Edson proudly stands beside his new mailbox with the farmhouse behind him.

Jeff began restoration work in 2023, hiring local contractors and prescribing an attention-to-detail fitting of his character. He invested nearly quadruple the $85,000.00 property valuation into the restoration, spending $350,000.00 installing modern electric, plumbing and heating systems that complimented meticulously-restored original antique doors, floor boards, and furniture. “Years of neglect, trash and forgotten furniture filled every inch of the 2,874-square-foot farmhouse,” Jeff said. He attributed much of the restoration’s success to “deep prayers from family and friends.” Frank Antonucci, Milford town historian, took an interest in researching the footprint of the Edson family. Working with Jeff, he pieced together the Edson lineage, finding notable historic footnotes along the way. Antonucci emphasized the importance of the farmhouse’s preservation. Numerous historically-signifi-

Unofficial Primary Results Set Stage for Competitive November Races By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST OTSEGO COUNTY nofficial results from the June 23 primary elections show several decisive victories across state and local races, with turnout surpassing last year’s participation and early voting contributing significantly to overall engagement. Final tallies will be certified in the coming days by the Otsego County Board of Elections. In one of the most closely watched contests, Republican challenger Mike Stalter defeated incumbent Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr., earning 53.16% of the vote to Devlin’s 46.84%. The race followed a contentious campaign season and came on the heels of the recent arrest of two Sheriff’s Office employees. Stalter said of the results, “Our team and I are super excited. We did a lot of work, and we made contact with a lot of people. We took our message out to the county and the county responded, and we look forward to continuing to take our message to the people of Otsego County until the general election in November.” Although defeated in the Republican primary, Devlin will still appear on the November ballot after securing

the Conservative Party nomination earlier this year, setting up a rematch between the two candidates in the general election. He did not respond to a request for comment by press time. The Democratic primary for the 102nd Assembly District produced a clear winner, with Janet Tweed receiving 56.61% of the vote. She prevailed over Thomas Boomhower with 25.57%, and Mary Finneran with 17.82%. In a statement following her victory, Tweed said she was “honored that Democratic primary voters have chosen me to represent them on the ballot this fall.” She emphasized her refusal to accept corporate PAC

donations and highlighted her background as a physical therapist and municipal board member. Tweed outlined several legislative priorities, including allowing consumers to opt out of AI in their technology use, supporting a moratorium on new data centers in New York, expanding school‑based healthcare, and restructuring how rural infrastructure funding is distributed. Tweed also thanked her primary opponents, saying, “Democracy works best when people debate and collaborate in good faith, with the shared purpose of improving quality of life for all residents.” Boomhower issued Continued on page 11

cant structures have disappeared across Milford in recent years. Fires ravaged the old Milford United Methodist Church and historic Milford Corner Store in 2017 and 2025, respectively, while the long-abandoned Culley’s Tavern was demolished only months ago following decades of disrepair. As natural decay continues creeping through old barns and farmhouses throughout Otsego County, Antonucci said Jeff’s restoration represents more than just a service to his family. “With this renovation, Jeff has brought to life his family’s history for other generations and the Milford community,” Antonucci stated. “This is something to be acknowledged and celebrated.” With a population of only roughly 3,000, few Milford residents are unfamiliar with Jeff and his work. Tucked between the college town of Oneonta and tourist hub of Cooperstown, Milford is composed Continued on page 11

.dining&entertainment

Perspectives

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL eDITORIAL

The partial Observer

Beyond the World Cup

t’s July. It’s hot, humid, sunny, rainy, green, noisy, busy, crowded—and not particularly relaxing. It’s also the beginning, this week, of the round of 32—the knockout round—of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, whose 48 teams have been duking it out in brilliant form on soccer pitches across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.—three in Mexico; two in Canada; 11 in the U.S.— since June 11. In the early stage of the great contest, the group stage, these 48 teams were divided into 12 groups of four to play round-robin matches. Each team played three games—giving their fans 144 games to watch over a period of two weeks and two days—for the most part, four games a day. That’s a healthy amount of soccer. The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams then advanced to the 32-team knockout round, sending 16 teams back home. This is where we are now, and will be until the World Cup final, in New York, on July 19 (right in the middle of the highly popular and universally televised Tour de France). No time to watch any news. Each FIFA World Cup team is entitled to bring 23 to 26 players, plus up to nine more to fill in for training. Eleven staff members—manager, coaches, trainers, physiotherapist, and the required team doctor—are allowed on the bench at a game, although more staff might be sitting in the background. So, in fact, each team might bring as many as 50 players and staff to the World Cup, where they camp out in a variety of chosen towns and cities in the three host countries for at least the early twoweek stage and its preliminary training period. That’s a sizable number of people to house, feed, nurture, amuse and, wonder of wonders, support. But all of this has, happily, happened. The visiting teams and their retinues each chose towns and cities to live and train in—25 such places are being used as base camps—as they await their games, which are being played at 16 stadiums. The group stage stadiums must have a capacity of at least 40,000; the knock-out round stadiums must seat 60,000; and the finals and opening ceremony stadiums must seat 80,000. Many have been brought up to speed with natural grass, having undergone multi-milliondollar sod installations. The teams, then, live and train in their host metropolises, traveling to and from their games. While the entire process of the World Cup has been, so far, astonishing and exciting to watch, the little-known, and little-discussed, activities that have been going on behind the scenes are even more enlightening. In Lawrence, Kansas, the Algerian team was met with Algerian flags decorating storefronts, green jerseys decorating citizens, and a welcoming surge. The University of Kansas marching band learned the Algerian national anthem and then played it as the team came out for practice. In return, the Algerians opened a training session to their American hosts and walked the neighborhood kids through drills and plays, signing autographs and posing for pictures. There was a street festival in Alexandria, Virginia, with Croatian food and music. Boston, although not hosting Scotland, did host their multitude of fans, running out of Sam Adams beer but not their good cheer. Everyone had a raucously good time. And every host town has a story to tell. So, what is happening here? Is the U.S. population over being convinced that the rest of the world’s population is a threat? Are we, or part of us, once again able to see a person instead of a problem? We can only hope these gestures will expand beyond the World Cup and include us all.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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“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.

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OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR Otsego 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. First Class Subscription, $155 a year.

Published Thursdays by Iron String Press, Inc. 21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326 Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. Email: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc. Periodicals postage paid at USPS Cooperstown 40 Main Street, Cooperstown NY 13326-9598 USPS Permit Number 018-449

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Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of William Cooper is in the Fenimore Art Museum

WALDO JOhnston

‘A House Divided Cannot Stand’

n article I read yesterday by former U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger (https://www. adamkinzinger.com/p/we-dont-knowtoo-much-about-you-but) in which he expressed surprise that our visitors here for the World Cup found us welcoming, kind, generous, fun, and spirited…and not nasty and brutish as they had been told we would be, prompted me to drill deeper into the issues he raised and share them with my Cooperstown friends. These are my opinions, so I recognize many of you will disagree with many of them. But I believe that only through open, honest and measured conversations can our country avoid drastic alteration of our ways, if not ruin. Kinzinger is right about the enthusiastic welcome America has given our World Cup guests. While they expected us to be unpleasant, bigoted, selfish, and angry largely through irresponsible social media presentations and self-serving rumors, they found us welcoming, generous, kind, and eager to help. The experience he cited of the Algerian team in Kansas is a powerful illustration of this. So, what caused this disconnect? Disagree with me all you want, but individuals and entities, especially Democrats, have unleashed an unrelenting and passionate personal assault on Donald Trump and, by extension, on our country to maintain their power. The examples are everywhere…two impeachments with a third threatened, constant attempts to derail his policies, however legitimate and reasonable, vicious character assassinations of him and his supporters, and even outright attempts to kill him. Trump Derangement Syndrome is an obsession that has paralyzed our nation, preventing us from addressing the real issues of the day, and has brought about division and weakness. While I concede that Trump has a boorish personality and invites discord, I choose to focus on what he has been trying to achieve, such as curtailing illegal immigration, battling crime, restoring election integrity, standing up to Iran and other countries that wish us ill, reducing fraud and wasteful spending, and ending the insidious and heretofore unimaginable antisemitism. It baffles me still why biological men are allowed to compete in girls’ sports, why charter schools are outlawed, how there can be multiple

genders, and how Somali enclaves in Minneapolis and Dearborn can take over the governance of their cities. Speaking of illegal immigrants, closing our borders, deporting known criminals, and banning totally unacceptable customs such as Sharia Law and genital mutilation is not bigotry or racism as we have been repeatedly told by virtuous liberals. It is simply following our own laws, and reducing the unsustainable financial burdens as we taxpayers provide the care they require. Those who enter our country illegally, however virtuous they may be, are still illegal even if they find refuge in our illegal “sanctuary” towns, cities and states. In my opening paragraph, I expressed my growing concern that America faces a bleak future, if not ruin. The signs of decay are everywhere: We are deeply divided along political, racial, religious, cultural, gender and other lines. There is a growing movement toward socialism as increasing numbers of Americans become convinced by biased educators and media anchors and writers that we are an evil nation with an unforgivable history of exploitation, extortion and greed. Many also see little promise of a successful future and become captivated by the siren song that other peoples’ money will give them “free stuff” forever. Finally, there are factions, conspicuously “The Squad,” that openly admit their hatred of America and call for drastic change or outright destruction. Even traditional Democrats are beginning to worry as radicals, cheered on by such luminaries as Mamdani, Bernie, and AOC, assume more influence every day. For more than 10 years, I have been warning of these Saul Alinsky-style movements and have received a disappointing lack of support and considerable pushback. I write this not to change opinions, but to again plead that we open our minds to other ideas and perceptions. Lincoln famously said that “a house divided cannot stand” and he could not have been more prophetic. Thanks for reading this. Waldo Johnston is a resident of Cooperstown and Vero Beach, Florida. EDITOR’S NOTE: The views expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily the view of AllOtsego and its affiliates.

Letters to the editor … In their opinION

Vote for Riley in November As a longtime resident of Cooperstown, I urge you to vote for Congressman Josh Riley this November. Gas is still over $4.00 a gallon here and everything is more expensive since the Republicans took control a year and a half ago. Josh has supported bills to reduce utility costs, housing costs and eliminate taxes on social security. He’s fighting a Republican plan to cut Medicaid and Medicare that will bankrupt Bassett just to support corrupt billionaires who pay no taxes. Is your family better off than it was last year? Marc Heller Middlefield

Second Book for ‘Unsung Heroes’ Volume two of “Cooperstown, NY: Home of the Unsung Heroes,” is filling up nicely. This will be your last chance to be part of Cooperstown’s history, and what a year to be a part of it, marking the 250th birthday of our country. Marking another powerful

milestone in this ongoing effort to honor every veteran in the surrounding area. Families have continued to come forward with stories, photos, and memories, helping ensure that no service member is forgotten, and we will keep accepting them for a while longer. During the submission process for volume two, something unexpected and deeply meaningful happened: Many families sent in handwritten letters from their veterans— personal notes, wartime reflections, and messages preserved across generations. These letters carried a voice and emotions that stood apart from the traditional submissions. Because of the overwhelming number of these handwritten letters that I read, I made the decision to create one final volume in the set—a third book dedicated entirely to veterans’ letters. This final book will stand on its own as a tribute to the words, thoughts, and lived experiences of the men and women who served. After receiving 15 amazing, heartfelt letters from a Civil War soldier—and reading them from his first day to his last—I felt the need to do this

final book just with letters, as it touched me in feelings I have never had reading a letter. We will never truly realize what each and every one of our veterans went through. With permission of the owner of the letters, the third book will begin with this Civil War veteran’s story, told entirely in his own words—just as he wrote them, with the help of historian Shirlee Rathbun in deciphering some of the words I transcribed. The book will include a photo of the original letter, the home this veteran grew up in and the place where his memorial stands in the family plot. From there, I will add any letters anyone wishes to submit. With volume two filling up and the letters volume now planned, the Cooperstown veterans’ book project continues its mission with the same heart and purpose from that the very first page to the last: to honor every veteran, preserve every story, and keep their legacies alive for generations to come. There are still a few copies of volume one of “Cooperstown, NY: Home of the Unsung Continued on page 13

THURSDAY, jULY 2, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5 NEWS FROM THE NOTEWORTHy

SOUTHSIDE MALL

A Legacy of Resilience, Community and Growth

Compiled by Tom Heitz/SHARON STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library

210 YEARS AGO

From New Orleans—A gentleman who left New Orleans on the 13th ult. and arrived at Boston in the brig Jane, states that the crevasse in the levee had not been stopped. Commodore Patterson had proceeded to the spot with his hulks for the purpose of sinking in the crevasse, but nothing had been affected when the Jane sailed. It was believed that one thousand houses were surrounded with water; and that two-thirds of their occupants had been obliged to abandon them. It is an astonishing fact, that amidst all this calamity and distress, the Theatre is regularly opened and thronged. June 27, 1816

160 YEARS AGO

Hop Picking—The old practice of picking hops has been a system of great inequality to the industrious working classes who harvest the crop—the employer furnishing house and board alike to the slothful and indolent picker and to the ambitious and energetic, both receiving the same sum per bushel or box. Now it is evident to all who have been consulted on this point, that some change should be made which the smart and ambitious picker should enjoy the fruits of her labor. The plan suggested is that the hop-grower furnish to each picker board by the week or day at a given price, and then pay the picker such a price per box as would pay (over and above the ordinary price paid per box for picking) the price paid for board upon two boxes of hops, which is admitted by all hopgrowers to be a fair average per day of a fair number of pickers. Thus you see that two boxes is made the standard day’s work, and the industrious who will pick three or four boxes per day have the proper inducement, as they get the increased pay on the last box or boxes, after picking the two which cancels the board. And the slothful will either be compelled to work or seek some other employment. June 29, 1866

85 YEARS AGO

Music lovers of Central New York who attended the summer sings in Cooperstown last season will be pleased to know that all five Sundays in August will be used for that purpose this year. Dr. Elmer A. Tidmarsh, who won such wonderful response from the audiences last summer, will return. Also returning is the famous Tenth Infantry band and its popular leader, Lieutenant Roscoe C. Adams. Lieut. Adams is now stationed with the 106th Infantry at Fort McClellan, Alabama, but has been able to make arrangements to keep his Cooperstown engagement this summer. July 2, 1941

35 YEARS AGO

The first English-speaking church west of the Hudson River will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its founding at Cherry Valley on July 14. The little church that started as a log cabin and school on Willow Hill in a settlement known as Lindsay’s Bush (later Cherry Valley) was born in the wilderness and has survived massacres, wars, and economic depression. The small group of Scottish-Irish settlers came to Cherry Valley in 1740. The church was established in 1741 and led by the Rev. Samuel Dunlop. July 3, 1991

20 YEARS AGO

Highlights of the coming July 4th Weekend – A concert by Musical Giant Paul Simon in “America’s Prettiest Village;” The Friends of the Library book sale beginning at 8.30 a.m. on Saturday, July 1; Farmers’ Market featuring produce, plants, gifts, meats, maple syrup, local honey, homebaked goods, crafts and live music; Grandma Moses’ art at The Fenimore; fireworks at Lakefront Park; a Cooperstown Candlelight Ghost Tour; a concert by Jazz pianist Bill Charlap at The Farmers’ Museum. June 30, 2006

Solution: “Way Out of Africa” (June 25)

or more than four decades, the Southside Mall has been a symbol of resilience, adaptability and community in Oneonta, New York. Since opening in 1983, the mall has successfully navigated changing retail trends, economic recessions, the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid growth of e-commerce. Throughout every period of change, the Southside Mall has continued to evolve by welcoming new businesses, expanding services, and meeting the needs of residents throughout Otsego, Delaware, Chenango, and Schoharie counties. Today, the Southside Mall is much more than a shopping destination. It is an important economic engine and the greater Oneonta area’s premier community hub, providing employment opporPhoto by Monica Calzolari tunities, supporting local organizations, Among the many community events hosted at the Southside Mall is and offering a welcoming environment the annual Canstruction® competition. for visitors of all ages. The mall has attend signature events including Family Fun become a favorite destination for daily Malloween, featuring safe indoor trick-or-treating, mall walkers, dog walkers, families, and commuand the Holiday Craft Fairs, which showcase nity groups seeking a safe, climate-controlled talented local artisans and small businesses. The place to gather, exercise, shop, and socialize mall proudly partners with the American Red year-round. Cross to host community blood drives that provide The Southside Mall’s commitment to the lifesaving donations throughout the region. community extends well beyond retail through We are also honored to host the Oneonta City year-round family events, educational programs and charitable initiatives. Thousands of visitors Continued on page 10 THIS IS A PAID ADVERTORIAL By MERL REAGLE

Is That Yet Another Chicken Joke?… Yes it is—henny questions?

ACROSS 1 Famous last words 6 Entrepreneur’s deg. 9 Jeanne’s last name 13 “___ Slow Boat to China” 16 Chicks’ favorite snack food? 19 Melville novel 20 Visit briefly: slang 23 What chickens always hope Farmer Brown won’t do? 25 Brave souls, to Kipling 26 Cole Porter was one 27 High weed? 28 Iranian language 29 Real 30 Window sections 33 Idolatry, for one 34 Market 36 Antlered animal 37 Hen’s favorite Saturday Night Live sketch? 42 ___ distance 44 Mon. night scores 46 Hiking 109 Sibilant “hey you” 17 Move like a joey 47 Unanimously 112 Hot tubbers’ words 18 Oprah in The Color Purple 50 Oldsmobile ancestor 113 ___ mickey (incapacitate) 21 So what, to a chicken? 51 Essen exclamation 114 “God ___ a cheerful 22 Designer’s initials 54 Hen’s favorite actress? giver” (II Cor. 9:7) 24 The Fountainhead author 57 Missile wobble 116 Banana box 29 Wedding setting 58 South American plain 118 Mayberry aunt 31 Earth Day prefix 60 Former legislator, in 121 Take-home headlines 32 FX’s ___ Anarchy 122 Filch 61 Swiss river 33 Clockmaker Thomas et al. 123 Reassurance to an antsy 35 Truman’s birthplace 62 Australian gems fried-chicken lover? 64 Groggy 38 Artist’s deg. 127 Last of the Mohicans 66 Put ___ on (follow) 39 ___ tears (fill with ennui) 128 Decorated Bradley 68 Utah city 40 Elaborate fabrication 129 Chicken’s favorite Dionne 41 Violin sec. 69 Iron-pumper’s pride Warwick hit? 70 What French hens sit on? 43 Choice words 130 Subway relatives 74 Indifferent 45 “... out of a ___ ear” 131 J’accuse author 77 Take on 48 Mid-broadcast 79 Contribute, as to a 401(k) 132 Coll. term 49 S panish statesman and 133 Pencil shadings dramatist, López de ___ 80 Wonderland vehicles, at DOWN Disneyland 51 Crooked, old-style 1 Don’t fight (it) 82 Lorgnette event 52 Board game that’s murder 2 Smackeroos 84 Cinema computer 53 Chick raiser’s greeting? 3 Henhouse raider 85 Aristocrat 55 Small and round, as eyes 4 DC-10 course 88 Crow’s-feet 56 Beginning the betting 5 100 Across or 114 Down 89 Plop preceder 59 Citadel denial 90 Large omelet that’s just for 6 It’s going around the office 63 Joe of GoodFellas 7 Redness standard show? 65 The ___ Age 8 Quick 94 Int’l carrier 67 Ex-San Francisco mayor Art 9 Get in here? 95 Home, not bus. 68 “Full of” suffix 96 Drum along the Mohawk 10 Stockpile 71 Gallery eyeballbenders 11 Noted riveter 97 Newshounds 72 Front for cene or lithic 12 Stashable bed 99 Jungle-movie suit 73 Every ___ the way 100 Mustangs’ campus: abbr. 13 Petro faction 75 Expel, as lava 101 Chinese dish that chickens 14 From Mexico City to Mon- 76 Thessaly peak terrey never order? 78 Inflatable vessels 15 Chicken feed? 107 Rx scribblers

81 Hebrew letters 82 Slices of slime in gumbo 83 “Quiet, you chicks!” 84 Kin of compost 86 Luxuriates 87 K-P contents 91 Sex appeal 92 Letters on a Detroit truck 93 Parking place 98 Mercedes model 102 Solemn promise 103 Has a Chiclet 104 Actress Ryder 105 “Let me ___ saying ...” (speaker’s intro) 106 TV’s Sagal et al. 108 Flower part 110 Joe, the jerk 111 Process for Shapiro 114 Shreveport campus: abbr. 115 Hardy heroine 117 M etropolis near a marble mausoleum 118 Like a tuna’s fin 119 O ld Persian Gulf kingdom (with a matriarchal social system, despite what it spells backward) 120 C harlotte’s Web author: inits. 123 From A ___ 124 M ental yardsticks, familiarly 125 Reading from the heart? 126 C annes Film Festival award, the Palme ___

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

NEWS BRIEFS

Meet, Greet Highlights Opera COOPERSTOWN—Welcome Home Cooperstown will hold its next community meet-and-greet at the Village Hall, 22 Main Street, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7. The event is intended to welcome new community members, share resources and build connections. All are welcome. This month’s gathering will highlight The Glimmerglass Festival, featuring refreshments from the Guild, a presentation by Festival Director Rob Ainslie and a performance by singers from the Young American Artist program. The village’s America250 time capsule will be buried on July 7 to be opened on July 4, 2076.

have hit record low levels as American reserves are exported to nations more directly impacted by the blockade and compounding supply chain bottlenecks. Crude stockpiles in the U.S. fell by more than 15 million barrels to 743 million last week, their lowest level since 1985. Crude exports have averaged nearly 5 million barrels per day for the last four weeks, about 25 percent higher than the comparable figures from last year. Domestic gasoline refineries are running at a high level, but gas inventories remain about five percent below the five-year average. New York’s price is 45 cents lower than last month and 90 cents higher than this week last year. To view the full report, visit gasprices.aaa.com.

Levkovich Starts Residency

NY Seeks To Aid Beekeepers

offered from 5-6 p.m. on Thursday, July 2. For more information or to apply, visit nyfvi.org/grantprograms/producer-grants/nys-grown-certifiedresearch-and-development-grant/gcrd-2026/

Ace Stores Donate Box Fans COOPERSTOWN—Over the past several weeks, Westlake Ace Hardware customers in Delhi, Cooperstown and Walton rounded up their purchases to support the Salvation Army’s annual Box Fan Drive for neighbors in need during the summer months. This year’s donations added up to purchase 92 fans, which the Salvation Army will pick up after press time on Tuesday, June 30.

Blood Drives Scheduled

ALBANY—In conjunction with National Pollinator Week, New York State Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets Richard A. Ball highlighted the state’s efforts to support pollinator populations. These species contribute to an estimated $469 million in crop production statewide. Beekeepers are urged to join the New York State Grown and Certified program and the Beekeeper Registration Program to access resources and help the state continue to support honey producers. For more information, visit certified.ny.gov/honey.

COOPERSTOWN—The American Red Cross will host a blood drive at Bassett Hall Auditorium, 31 Beaver Street in Cooperstown, from 12:305:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 2. Another will be held in Conference Room 1 at FoxCare Center in Oneonta from 12-5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7. Walk-ins are welcome; appointments may be made by calling 1-800-733-2767, visiting redcrossblood.org or by using the American Red Cross Blood Donor App. Donors who give by July 12 will receive a limited edition Red Cross/ Looney Tunes collaboration T-shirt.

‘Quiet Concert’ Set for July 4

Camp Registration To Close

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Art Association’s 91st Annual National Juried Art Exhibition will open with a reception from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, July 10. The reception will feature refreshments from Brimstone Bakery in Sharon Springs and live music by Duopoly. Awards will be announced at 6 p.m., as will the 2026 CAA Art Scholarship awards. The exhibition will be on display through August 14.

SALT SPRINGVILLE—Oneonta’s Catskill Conservatory will present the 29th annual “Quiet Concert for the Fourth” and potluck supper at the Windfall Dutch Barn in Salt Springville on Saturday, July 4. The concert begins at 4 p.m. and attendees are encouraged to bring a dish to pass. The event is free and open to the public with no reservations required. Contact (607) 263-5230 or visit windfalldutchbarn.com for more information.

Kids Creativity Camp Returns

OLA Establishes Lake Pledge

WALTON—Helios Care will run its popular Camp Forget-Me-Not one-day grief counseling camp for children from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Townsend Elementary School, 42-66 North Street in Walton, on Thursday, July 23. Led by experienced Helios Care professionals, the free camp provides a safe, welcoming environment for children ages 618 who have lost a loved one to connect with peers, express their feelings and learn healthy coping strategies. Registration is required at helioscare. org/support-for-families/kids-camp/ or by calling (607) 432-5525 mo later than Thursday, July 16.

UTICA—Internationally renowned Mohawk Valley-based representational painter Yulia Levkovich will spend the summer in focused creative development as an artist-in-residence at the Horned Dorset Colony in Leonardsville from July 7 through August 4. The residency follows a busy year teaching at Munson Community Education, Pratt Munson, Hamilton College and Notre Dame Elementary. Her painting “Turning Inward” will be displayed in the Cooperstown Art Association’s National Juried Exhibition from July 11 to August 14.

Juried Art Exhibition To Open

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Art Association’s Kids Creativity Camp with instructor Lexi LeRoux will be held from 1-3 p.m. on July 20-24. Children ages 6-14 will explore a different handson art activity each day. Registration is $30.00 per day or $145.00 for the week for CAA members and $35.00 per day or $170.00 for the week for nonmembers. Contact (607) 547-9777 or gallery@ cooperstownart.com by July 17 to sign up.

Theology Classes Offered ONEONTA—Hartwick College’s 35th Annual Summer Institute of Theology will return for the week of July 12-17. It features daily worship and 2.5-hour classes offered Monday through Thursday mornings and Monday through Friday afternoons. Students may drop in for a single session, choose overnight housing or register as residents or commuters, and have full access to campus amenities. A full brochure with registration information is available at drive.google.com/file/d/1yZCatB50Pv 7R8l3QuhxCXd6MFbAGFOtR/view.

Gas Prices Hit Four-month Low UTICA—The average price of gasoline in New York State slid 12 cents to $4.23 per gallon over the week ending Monday, June 29, AAA Northeast announced. Last week, crude oil prices fell to the low $70.00 range on news of a tentative peace agreement between the U.S, Iran and Israel, their lowest level in the four months since the conflict began. Domestic supplies of crude oil and gasoline

COOPERSTOWN—Otsego Lake Association established a Lake Protection Pledge for watershed community members to help preserve the lake for future generations. Residents and lake users are encouraged to sign the pledge at otsegolakeassociation.org and make simple lifestyle changes to dispose of waste properly, avoid certain chemicals, and conserve water.

Mill To Celebrate July 4th

Gatehouse Exhibit Opens Fri. MORRIS—The Gatehouse Coffee Shop and Mercantile, 129 Main Street in Morris, will open its “Call and Response” exhibition of intaglio prints by Oneonta artist Rhea Nowak at a reception from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, July 3. Guests are invited to explore the display and meet the artist. For more information, visit thegatehouseny.com.

EAST MEREDITH—Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12 in East Meredith, will hold its Fourth of July celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. In addition to tours of the ice house and 100-year-old Fitz overshot waterwheel, there will be handmade vanilla ice cream and a Learning Lab with activities for children. Lunch will be available for purchase from Helen’s Little Kitchen food truck and the Catskill Gamblers will perform live music from 1-3 p.m. For more information, visit hanfordmills.org.

Sanctuary To Be Surveyed

State Announces Farm Grants

Marker To Be Dedicated

ALBANY—The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the New York Farm Viability Institute announced $1.36 million in new research and development grants through the New York State Grown and Certified Program. This is the first time that program funds have been specifically earmarked for research as a path to improved productivity and viability for New York producers. A free webinar on the application process will be

MILFORD—The Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society and Leatherstocking Chapter NRHS will dedicate a Pomeroy Historical Marker honoring the 1876 Milford Depot at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. Located at 136 East Main Street in Milford, the ceremony will also honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and 27 years of operations on the all-volunteer Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Train Ride.

SPRINGFIELD—Leatherstocking Botanical Society’s Dr. Donna Vogler will conduct a botanical survey of Goodyear Swamp Sanctuary, located behind The Glimmerglass Festival at 7300 State Highway 80, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7. Volunteers should bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, and a lunch, and meet in the opera parking lot on the west side of the road. For more information, contact ctedesco1026@gmail.com.

DOT Announces Start of Safety, Mobility Improvement Project ONEONTA n Wednesday, June 24, New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez officially announced the start of the $7 million Southside Oneonta Safety and Mobility Improvement Project, which will reduce traffic congestion and enhance pedestrian access along the State Route 23 (James F. Lettis Highway) and State Route 28 corridor, in the Town of Oneonta. The project includes modern features that will create safer connections for residents, students, visitors, and businesses throughout this busy commercial corridor near SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College, officials said. “A safer street does more than move traffic—it connects people to opportunity,” Commissioner Dominguez said. “Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership, we continue to make strategic investments along this corridor to enhance safety for all users of our transportation systems—bike, pedestrian, road and transit. We started with the installation of the Lettis Highway and Main Street roundabout and, together with our partners in Oneonta, we are now advancing safety upgrades along State Routes 23 and 28, which will expand pedestrian access and help improve the flow of people and traffic

along this critical Oneonta gateway.” According to a press release, the project is designed to significantly enhance safety, traffic flow, and pedestrian access on State Route 23 (James F. Lettis Highway) and State Route 28, a busy commercial and residential corridor, and was awarded Statewide Highway Safety Improvement Program funding after an analysis found that the corridor experienced vehicle crashes at rates higher than the statewide average. Planned improvements will make the corridor safer, more accessible, and easier to navigate for motorists, pedestrians, and transit users alike, officials said. The project includes extended turning lanes, a new sidewalk along the northern edge of the corridor and an additional pedestrian crosswalk at the north side of the State Route 23 and State Route 28 intersection. ADAcompliant curb ramps will also improve connectivity throughout the area. “This project means a parent walking to the Southside, or a student heading to a shift, finally has a safe way to get there,” said Town of Oneonta Supervisor Will Rivera. “It makes one of our busiest commercial corridors safer for everyone who walks, bikes, or drives it, and easier to reach for residents and visitors. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the State Department of

Transportation for backing this project and putting $7 million behind the safety of our community.” Two new bus stops for Oneonta Public Transit users will expand access to jobs, shopping and essential services. The project will also deliver a full pavement resurfacing, upgraded pavement markings, and modernized traffic signals, including new signals at the McDonald’s and Aldi intersections and upgraded signals at the Southside Mall and Hannaford entrances—“helping traffic move more efficiently while enhancing safety for everyone who travels the corridor,” according to officials. “NYSDOT appreciates the public’s patience as crews undertake this significant highway and pedestrian safety project, with construction continuing through the fall of 2027,” the press release reads. “Motorists should expect temporary pattern changes, congestion, and delays during construction and as work progresses. To help improve travel conditions, the department has already adjusted traffic signal timing at key intersections to better manage the flow of traffic and reduce backups.” DOT says this project builds on other recent investments in the area, including a recently installed roundabout, which replaced a congested intersection at the north end of Lettis

Highway (Route 23) and Main Street (Route 7). Development of the Southside project also was designed in coordination with the City of Oneonta’s Transportation Alternatives Program project on Lettis Highway, which is providing a new sidewalk along Lettis Highway that will connect with the DOT’s Southside Oneonta Safety and Mobility Improvement Project. In April, Governor Hochul announced the completion of the City of Oneonta’s final Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) project. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the new Transit Center project, which marked the conclusion of all seven public and private projects funded under the State’s highly successful DRI program. “I am thankful to see the improvements underway across State Routes 23 and 28 in the Town of Oneonta,” said City of Oneonta Mayor Daniel Buttermann. “Southside Oneonta is an important part of our region’s economic vitality, and it is the busiest traffic area in the county. “The improvements will enhance safety and mobility, which will in turn increase the ease of accessing Oneonta, enjoying the wonderful host-community that we are, and all that we have to offer,” Buttermann said.

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

EXPLORE CHERRY VALLEY cherryvalley.com Cherry Valley Bookstore Celebrates its Seventh Anniversary By BILL COMPTON CHERRY VALLEY n June 3, 2019, we walked into Will Green’s office in Cooperstown and bought a used bookstore. Having never owned a small business before, much less a bookstore, collectively we asked ourselves—what have we done? The first few weeks were a combination of cleaning and organizing the bookstore, getting a tax ID number, creating a website and social media accounts. Cleaning and organizing were paramount. There were many books that were mildewed because of water leaks—removing them, cleaning the ones that could be saved, replacing the roof and repairing windows became our priority. Because of the dust and the mildew, we had those blue masks that became popular during COVID a year before anyone else. We visited local booksellers, particularly those down in Hobart, known as the “Book Village.” Booksellers are quite collegial, and they were all more than happy to lend advice and encouragement. We had a soft opening in mid-June as we continued to clean and organize. A bookcase on a raised hearth was relocated upstairs and a perfectly gorgeous fireplace that had been installed by Paul Bley in the mid70s was revealed. A bookcase containing paperback fiction, poetry, and drama was removed, opening up the space in front of the fireplace, and those books were moved to other areas in the store. By late summer, shelves had been organized and my wife, Lynne, had handprinted labels for all. We were starting to feel like we were getting the hang of it. Importantly, we were learning how much the community appreciated our efforts. Time and again we heard “thank you for saving the bookstore.” In January of 2020, we went to our home in Florida for a winter break. In February, there were rumblings on the news about a deadly new virus and, in March, the World Health Organization

Photo provided

The Cherry Valley Bookstore is a welcoming space for all.

declared a global pandemic. It looked like we would be stuck in Florida for an undetermined amount of time. We called a friend in Cherry Valley that had keys to the bookstore and told her where our supply of blue masks was and asked her to send some to us and share the rest with her family and friends. We finally returned to Cherry Valley in June of 2020. We marked six-foot spaces on the floor with tape, bought hand sanitizer, and put up signs requiring masks and social distancing. This was not how we envisioned our second year of being booksellers. But 2020 turned out to not be so bad after all. Customers were compliant with COVID rules, and we found a house in the village. We spent the year painting the interior and having a bathroom installed downstairs. By 2021, we were both business owners and homeowners in Cherry Valley. The momentum

continued and we painted the bookstore in the summer/fall of 2021. After more than 75 years of being red, the bookstore is now a cheery yellow. Bookselling is rewarding. We thoroughly enjoy it when our customers find an unexpected treasure or just the book they were looking for—even though sometimes they didn’t know that was the book they were looking for when they walked through the door. We especially enjoy the children’s book selection. It’s one of our biggest sections and located conveniently right as you walk through the front door. We try our best to keep copies of the classics. We’ve lost count of how many copies of “The Little Engine That Could,” “Mouse Soup,” “Danny the Dinosaur” and “Ferdinand” that we’ve sold. We carry children’s books that date back to the 19th century and many of the popular series, like Nancy Drew. It’s always wonderful to hear adults remembering their favorite book as a child, or telling their now adult child “this was your favorite book when I read it to you when you were little.” We love how the tradition of loving books continues. We have so many categories that we’re almost sure we’ll have something you’d like. While we don’t specialize in antiquarian and rare books, we have a nice selection of books dating to the early 1800s, even some from the 1780s. The oldest book we ever sold was a four-volume set, the Charles Jarvis translation of “Don Quixote”—the first definitive English translation—printed in 1766. We currently have a copy of Byron’s “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” printed in New York in 1825, the year after Byron’s death, and a bible from the 1840s printed in Philadelphia, with a four-leaf clover pressed in the Book of Psalms. Over the past seven years we’ve met so many interesting people, had so many interesting conversations and magical moments. Customers have become friends and the bookstore has become a comfortable and welcoming space for all. We can’t wait to see how the story continues.

Telegraph School Grand Re-Opening Party Set for Friday, July 3rd CHERRY VALLEY ollowing more than a year of renovations, The Telegraph School will host a Grand Re-opening Party on Friday, July 3 at 5 p.m. at 83 Alden Street, Cherry Valley. The event will include an exhibition of artwork and a talk by visual artist Anastasiia Starukhina, the First Friday Open Mic, and the announcement of the formation of the new ReGathering non-profit, officials said. A decoration creation table and refreshments will also be available. According to a press release issued on Monday, June 29, the doors of The Telegraph School will be re-opening to the public after a year and a half of renovations overseen by historic preservationist/ contractor Steve Zerby. “It has been a labor of love and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back,” said Director Angelica Palmer. “The

renovations are funded by historic tax credits and a legal settlement from the passing of my sister, Vanessa Bley. Her spirit is a big part of our focus: building community through art and nature.” The event is partially funded by a Community Events Grant from the Otsego County Board of Representatives. Leslie Berliant, Otsego County board representative for Cherry Valley, said, “The Telegraph School has been such an important anchor in Cherry Valley, promoting art and creative expression, and bringing people together. I’m glad that the county is able to offer this support as you reopen and start your sixth year of providing such an important service to the community.” The July 3 celebration will begin at 5 p.m. with refreshments and a paper crafting table, where visitors can create

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colorful paper chains, tissue paper flower garlands, and origami paper cranes to decorate the space. People are encouraged to write their special messages and hopes for the future inside their paper creations, officials said. The exhibition “Small Silly Things,” by artist Anastasiia Starukhina, will be on display at The Telegraph School for the month of July, and Starukhina will give an artist talk at 6 p.m. Starukhina is a multidisciplinary artist, holistic doula, and art facilitator based in the mountains of upstate New York. A mother of six and the author of the book “40 Days after Birth,” her work explores the inner transitions of life—birth, motherhood, loss, renewal, and personal transformation. “The title ‘Small Silly Things’ isn’t about the scale of the work. It’s about the quiet moments

that often go unnoticed— the small acts of making that help us process change, create belonging and stay connected to ourselves,” Starukhina explained. According to the press release, Starukhina combines visual art, craft, and traditional women’s practices to create spaces for reflection and initiation. She works as an art facilitator at the Kirkland Art Center in Clinton, New York, and her workshops often draw inspiration from nature, seasonal rhythms, and the wisdom of handmade objects. Through simple materials—clay, plaster, textiles, botanical forms—she invites participants to slow down, work with their hands and connect with their inner experience. The monthly First Friday Open Mic will follow the artist talk. Now in its sixth year, it has become a community hub of creative

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expression for people of all ages in the area. The public is invited to share poetry, music, stories, comedy, dance or whatever stirs their spirit. Also during this time, The Telegraph School will announce the formation of ReGathering, an innovative nonprofit the mission of which is to develop community and connection through performing arts, nature, and creative processes. Through education, gatherings, art, and performances, ReGathering

aims to foster collaboration, personal growth, community resilience, and a strong relationship to nature. “In doing so, they uplift our rural community and invite folks beyond our area to join them in discovering, sharing, creating, and recreating traditions,” officials said. Learn more about The Telegraph School and upcoming summer programming at www. thetelegraphschool.org.

First Friday (7/3) 25 Main Collective, 21 Main St. Opening Reception (5-8 p.m.) Artists of Glimmerglass Artwork from people in all phases of The Glimmerglass Festival food by Erich of CoffEE & CruMb Café

The Telegraph School, 83 Alden St. Open Mic (6-9 p.m.)

Red Shed Ale House, 10 Main St. Live Music with Becca & Brian (7-9 p.m.)

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THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Legacy

Continued from page 1 York Cavalry. Captured during fighting in Virginia, he survived the horrors of Andersonville Prison in Georgia, where starvation and disease ravaged Union prisoners. Although eventually paroled, he died just one day after returning home, his health destroyed by his imprisonment. Lewis’ grandfather, Anan Hall, had also served during the Revolutionary War, giving the family a military legacy spanning generations. Anan Hall was born in Connecticut in 1757 and served in the Revolutionary War beginning in 1777. After the war, he and his wife, Comfort Hodge, settled in Otsego County, where they raised their family and farmed the land. Today, descendants Jeanne Marble and Jann Dagg (Jann is Jeanne’s sister) honor their ancestors by preserving their graves, a passion for family history inspired by their 97-year-old mother, Peggy (Lindsay) Dagg, whose genealogical research began decades before online

ancestry resources. The family’s military story also includes halfbrothers Gilbert B. Wires and Hall A. Morse. Hall had already served in the Mexican-American War before enlisting in the Union Army in 1862, but a severe knee injury ended his military service. Gilbert served two enlistments with the 76th New York Infantry, returning to civilian life after the war to farm and raise a family. Together, their service reflects another branch of a family whose members repeatedly answered the nation’s call. Jeanne’s husband, Dale Marble, has a passion for headstone restoration as well. He, too, had an ancestor, Harmon M. Blood, who fought in the Civil War and was buried in the Mount Vision Cemetery. Harmon had enlisted in October 1862 at the age of 27 and served in the 152nd New York Infantry. He was an assistant surgeon for his regiment and graduated from the University of Buffalo. With both sides of the family having deep roots in the history of the county and war, this made the experience even more personal for

the couple. Knowing these stories makes preserving the graves deeply personal. Concerned that several family monuments had become stained, weathered or difficult to read, Jeanne and Dale sought professional training before attempting any restoration. They both completed a gravestone conservation course through the University of Michigan and practiced proper techniques in Ann Arbor before purchasing the recommended supplies and bringing those skills to New York. Today, the Marbles’ restoration work follows accepted preservation practices. Using D/2 Biological Solution, soft brushes and water (never pressure washers or harsh chemicals) they carefully remove decades of biological growth while protecting the aging stone. Before beginning any work, they received approval from local cemetery officials. While restoring family monuments, they met another volunteer, Loreen Allen, who was cleaning nearby Allen family headstones. Jeanne and Loreen discovered they

may share distant family ties from the Civil War and spent hours working side by side to preserve the cemetery’s history. Jeanne and Dale believe restoring headstones means restoring memory. This came up specifically when they had discovered Dale’s ancestor Harmon M. Blood, whose grave lacked recognition of his Civil War service. After reaching out to the Mount Vision Cemetery to confirm this mistake, they wanted to ensure that his sacrifice for his country would be properly acknowledged and respected. They believe every cleaned inscription makes another life visible to future visitors. The couple often introduces themselves to the ancestors as they work among the graves. “We talk about what they would think if they could see us here,” Jeanne said. “I think they’d be pleased they’re still remembered.” Daughter Brianna Marble has embraced her parents’ passion for history, inspired by the letters, photographs and military artifacts passed down through generations. She has

been making the trips every year with her mother since she was 10 months old and fully embraced the experience when she was 5 years old and declared to the cemetery, “These are my ‘grancestors,’ which the family still quotes to this day. The couple hopes Brianna will continue both the research and the restoration long into the future. For the Marbles, each

cleaned headstone is more than a restored monument. It is a promise that the stories of James, William, David, Lewis, Gilbert, Hall, Harmon, and Anan—and the sacrifices they made more than 160 years ago—will continue to be remembered. “We’re the keepers of their information,” Jeanne said. “We want people to know they had a life.”

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OBITUARIES

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roger (Jim) Hayes

Roger James (Jim) Hayes 1939-2026

COOPERSTOWN— Roger James (Jim) Hayes went to a more glorious existence Monday, June 15, 2026. Jim had trusted the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ to draw him into perfect relationship with our creator. Jim was born in Englewood, New Jersey on January 6, 1939, the son of John and Patricia (Jarvis) Hayes. Jim also loved people, animals, particularly horses and dogs…and trains! Jim proudly displayed his teams in several local parades, and dearly desired to have his

horse “Trudy” ridden in this year’s 250th celebration of our nation at the 4th of July Parade in Springfield Center. Jim proudly volunteered to serve his nation in the U.S. Army in the lead-up to the Vietnam war and was stationed in Berlin, Germany despite having polio as a youth. He was a guard on the Berlin Wall the day President Kennedy was shot. He was to be on high alert, as there was uncertainty as to what might be occurring. Jim lived a full life despite major setbacks, surviving a train crash in the Rocky Mountains on Christmas Day 1968 and a T-bone car crash 10 years later, each requiring months of surgery and rehab. Jim’s train engineering career was cut short by the train crash. Jim always said once you’ve driven the California Zephyr, few other jobs will satisfy you. He enjoyed going to any train event, or parking by railways just to admire the trains. Partly to be around his beloved horses, Jim developed friendships with multiple local

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Amish communities. He enjoyed the people and drove them on errands and particularly to auctions. He would not accept money because he valued friendships more. He also enjoyed some good meals. Jim will be missed by his Amish friends, friends at the Community Bible Chapel in Toddsville (Cooperstown, NY) and many long-term friends from around Otsego County and beyond. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, John Richard Hayes. He is survived by his loving sister-in-law, Tania Hayes, of Westport Island, Maine. A service celebrating Jim’s life will be held at the Community Bible Chapel at 10 a.m. on July 17, 2026. He will be recognized for his service and buried at the B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

Barbara Gloria Jorgensen Lamb 1937-2026

COOPERSTOWN— Barbara Lamb, a beautiful soul, a gracious woman, and lover of all creatures great and small, passed away in the early hours of June 19, 2026 in her home at Woodside

Photo provided

barbara lamb

Hall, with family by her side. She was 88. Born July 27, 1937 at St. Vincent’s Hospital on Staten Island, Barbara was the beloved daughter of Arthur and Rita (Cashman) Jorgensen. She graduated from the Staten Island Academy in 1955 and Lasell Junior College in 1957. Barbara was deeply passionate about animals. Though she loved Staten Island, she also enjoyed living on the farm in Delhi, where she rode horses and raised puppies. The family moved to Cooperstown in 1963 and, for a time, lived at Woodside Hall. A litter of Barbara’s precious miniature schnauzers was born in her closet there! Barbara was known for her infectious giggle and the twinkle in her eye that hinted at her mischievous side. She began her career in real

leWiS, HurleY & pietrobono

estate, and many recall the days when she used an RV to show houses so that clients could relax and take in the beautiful countryside. She later founded Lamb Realty, which she sold upon her retirement. Barbara enjoyed fast cars and loved tooling around town in her red Toyota Land Cruiser or yellow Cadillac, rescuing animals along the way. She volunteered for the Susquehanna SPCA for many years and ran a dog grooming business for a time. Barbara’s home was a sanctuary for animals of all kinds, especially those most needing love. Barbara married Charles Lamb in October 1978. Star-crossed lovers, who simply adored one another, they spent hours cruising Otsego Lake on their wooden boat, Lambcruiser, admiring nature and each other. Barbara and Charlie were married for 46 years until Charlie’s passing in 2024. Testament to their abiding love and deep connection, Barbara and Charlie passed almost exactly the same time of day. Barbara is survived by her family: stepdaughter Susan Lamb and husband, Clif Buell of Apalachicola, Florida; stepson William Lamb and wife Laura Bliss

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Lamb of Cooperstown; a brother-in-law and sisterin-law, David and Vickie Lamb; nieces Tricia (Michael) McElfresh and Lisa (Scott) Stuart; great-nephew Casey McElfresh; and greatnieces Ivy McElfresh, Anya Stuart, and Brynn Stuart, all of Clyde, Ohio. She is further survived by her loving family at Woodside Hall. She was predeceased by her husband, Charlie, her parents, and her cherished menagerie of dogs, cats, and birds. Barbara was fortunate to spend her golden years back at Woodside Hall, where immense love, compassion, music, and laughter sustained her and brought true joy. Barbara was also supported by the angels of Helios Care, who stood by her side, providing expert care and kindness during the most difficult periods of Barbara’s illness. Together, Woodside and Helios held Barbara in their loving arms and gracious hearts. According to her wishes, Barbara will be laid to rest in a graveside service at Lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown on Thursday afternoon, July 2, 2026, at 1 p.m. with Father Michael Cambi, pastor of St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, presiding. Memorial donations may be made to the Woodside Hall Activities Fund, 1 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326; Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820; or Susquehanna SPCA, PO Box 267, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Arrangements are with the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. So long for a while, sweet Barbara.

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9

Investigations, Arrests, Anonymous Allegations Fuel Tensions between Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST COOPERSTOWN series of high‑profile arrests, internal investigations, and newly surfaced allegations have placed the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office and the Otsego County District Attorney’s Office under an unusual degree of public scrutiny, raising questions about oversight, communication, and trust between the county’s two primary law‑enforcement bodies. The most visible flashpoint is the recent arrest of Lt. Christopher Fellrath, a longtime member of the Sheriff’s Office, who was charged with multiple felony drug offenses following a months‑long investigation conducted jointly by the New York State Police Special Investigations Division and the Otsego County District Attorney’s Office. According to the State Police release, investigators allege Fellrath participated in drug distribution across multiple counties and, at times, used county‑owned vehicles while doing so. Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr. confirmed that Fellrath was terminated immediately upon arrest. The arrest has intensified public discussion about internal oversight within the Sheriff’s Office. A former corrections officer speaking at a meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives questioned how a high‑ranking supervisor responsible for jail security could allegedly engage in drug activity undetected. He also raised concerns about overtime practices and the use of GPS‑equipped county vehicles, noting that the sheriff has the ability to monitor vehicle locations in real time. These concerns have been echoed in community correspondence. One resident wrote to AllOtsego, noting that “every vehicle that is used by the Otsego County Sheriff’s [Office] has GPS tracking,”

Otsego

Continued from page 1 that away could price some residents out of town and force others to sell beloved family properties that are maintained with the proceeds from summer rentals. Otsego Planning Board member Alexander Nirenberg and Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 2000, argued in the other direction, saying that a balanced approach would make more homes available to full-time residents and protect the environment. “A dynamic community needs full-time families,” Nirenberg said. An attorney representing Fraydun Manocherian took aim at the proposed comprehensive plan changes from a different angle, saying one of the changes could limit the developer’s ability to build 126 homes—50 of which are planned for the Town of Otsego. In a letter, lawyer Allyson Phillips said the town failed to follow procedures for public notice and open meetings regarding a significant change to subdivision rules for large parcels. The change would limit how parcels of 40 acres or more are subdivided into smaller lots, restricting them to no more than three lots (about 13 acres) while the current rules allow lots as small as three acres. Phillips estimated the change would impact more than just her client, affecting 259 parcels totaling nearly 25,000 acres. Before reconsidering the comprehensive plan changes, Town of Otsego officials had extended the public hearing period on the matter. At meetings this month, council members will review the public comments and discuss next steps in the process, Kennedy said. In addition to the comprehensive plan,

the town is preparing to review plans for the proposed Manocherian development, which spans both the Town of Otsego and the Town of Springfield and is expected to impact area roads and the lakeside environment. The town needs to adopt an ordinance that will set up a framework for charging Manocherian for the expert legal and engineering advice it will need to assess the complex plan, Kennedy said. With such weighty topics coming down the pike, the town needs to fill some open roles. Town Supervisor Ted Feury recently resigned. He did not say why, Kennedy said. The council accepted his resignation at its June working session and thanked him for his service. Kennedy will keep her current position and serve as deputy supervisor. Otsego also recently lost its zoning enforcement officer and is lacking a clerk for the planning board.

Kennedy

Continued from page 1 officials said. In spring 2024, Springbrook celebrated the opening of Ford Block, a signature community investment in downtown Oneonta. The $8.9 million redevelopment project preserves the historic character of the Ford Block buildings while reflecting Kennedy’s belief that strong communities are essential to supporting people with disabilities across the lifespan. Throughout her career, Kennedy has remained committed to advancing educational opportunities, family engagement, workforce development and person-centered services. Her leadership philosophy, “Grow with Purpose,” helped shape Springbrook’s growth

suggesting that repeated travel outside the county should have prompted internal review. The case has also become a focal point in the ongoing sheriff’s race. Retired Sgt. Mike Stalter, who is challenging Devlin and defeated the sitting sheriff for the Republican nomination in the June 23 primary election, issued a statement describing the arrest as evidence of “a lack of control, supervision and accountability” within the department. Stalter said he left the agency in 2025 because he “could not be part of” what he viewed as deteriorating internal standards. Devlin, in his own statement, called the allegations “deeply disturbing” and emphasized that the department is cooperating fully with investigators. Devlin, running on the Otsego County Conservative Party line, will face Stalter again come November in the general election. While the Sheriff’s Office faces questions about internal oversight, the District Attorney’s Office is confronting a separate set of allegations stemming from an anonymous letter sent to AllOtsego. The letter accuses DA Investigator Sean Ralph of committing perjury during the grand jury and criminal trial of Frankie Parker, a defendant who was ultimately acquitted. The letter claims Ralph falsely testified about the accuracy of the Computer Voice Stress Analyzer, or CVSA, an investigative tool used by some law‑enforcement agencies. In an interview with AllOtsego, District Attorney Office staff strongly rejected the allegations. They said Ralph’s statements about CVSA accuracy were expressions of his opinion, not assertions of fact, and therefore could not constitute perjury. They also noted that Parker never took the CVSA test, making the issue largely irrelevant to the case’s outcome. The DA’s Office further emphasized that grand jury proceedings are confidential by law. Staff

said that if the anonymous letter’s author truly had access to grand jury testimony, “that person has committed a crime.” They also pointed to New York’s Freedom of Information Law, which exempts law‑enforcement techniques from disclosure, as justification for denying a request for the CVSA training manual. The anonymous letter also alleges that the DA’s Office pressured the public defender to withdraw a motion seeking CVSA‑related documents. DA staff disputed that characterization, saying the office acted within legal boundaries and that the material requested was exempt from disclosure. These developments come as the DA’s Office continues to pursue charges in a separate case involving alleged overtime fraud within the Sheriff’s Office. Former Deputy Sheriff Sgt. Kristopher A. Solovitch was indicted on one count of second‑degree forgery and four counts of falsifying business records. The indictment is connected to the same broader investigation that led to Fellrath’s arrest. Taken together, the overlapping investigations, public allegations, and political pressures have created a moment of heightened tension between the county’s law‑enforcement agencies. Sheriff Devlin and the DA’s Office have both emphasized their cooperation with state authorities, but the combination of internal concerns, anonymous accusations, and election‑year scrutiny has intensified public interest in how each office operates and how oversight is exercised. As the criminal cases proceed and additional information becomes available, both agencies are likely to face continued questions about transparency, internal controls, and the steps they are taking to maintain public trust. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

America

across Central New emphasized her confiand have cash availYork, the Southern Tier, dence in Springbrook’s able for donations and the Hudson Valley, and future. concessions. Continued from page 2 the New York City and “The story of The Springfield 4th Free parking will of July Parade and Long Island regions. Springbrook has never Kennedy’s contri- been one person’s story,” be available at the Celebration is sponbutions have earned Kennedy said. “It is the Springfield Community sored in part by the widespread recogni- story of people coming Center, located at 129 Otsego County Events tion, including being together around a shared County Road 29A in Grant Program, with Center. support named New York belief that every person Springfield from the Attendees are encourState Developmental deserves the opportunity Community Foundation Disabilities Council to live a meaningful, aged to arrive early. of Otsego County, The The celebration will Glimmerglass Festival Administrator of the Year fulfilling life. I leave and receiving designa- this role with tremen- continue into the evening and private donations. tion as a New York State dous pride in all that at Glimmerglass State For more information, Woman of Distinction. we have accomplished Park, where Spike and look for the Springfield will perform In 2026, she was together and complete OCTOBERthe 1 –Boys DECEMBER 31, 20204th of July Parade awarded an Honorary confidence in what lies a mix of classic and and Celebration on Doctor of Humane ahead for this remarkable country rock beginning Facebook, e-mail p.m., followed spring at 7:30 Letters degree by SUNY organization.” field.july4@gmail.com, by a special fireworks Oneonta during the Springbrook Partners’ or call (315)858-0304. Spring Commencement Board of Directors has display. Visitors are Contributed by Andrea Ceremony for the School appointed current Chief encouraged to arrive House. early to ensure entry, of Education, Human Operating Officer Seth lawn 31, chairs, Ecology, and Sports Haight as chief executive OCTOBER bring 1 – DECEMBER 2020 Studies in recognition officer, effective January of her leadership, advo- 1, 2027. cacy, and lasting impact Information regarding on the lives of people Springbrook’s leaderwith intellectual and ship transition and future developmental disabiliplans will be shared in ties. She has also served the coming months. Visit on numerous nonprofit www.springbrookpartand community boards ners.org for more details. and has been a frequent presenter at? Assurance stateWeatherReady and ? Kelly Edge All-Season ? WinterCommand Ultra ? Assurance All-Season ? Kelly Edge HT national ? conferences Assurance CT Touring ? Kelly Edge All-Season Perf. ? Kelly Edge MT ? Wrangler DuraTrac ? Eagle Sport All-Season Family (inc. ROF & SCT) ADDITIONAL ? Wrangler AT Adventure w/Kevlar ? Kelly Winter Access MaxLife ? Winter Maxx 2 ? Kelly Edge AT focused on? Assurance education, ITEMS CAN Exhilarate C-Type ? Kelly Edge HP ? Kelly Safari TSR ?NEWS Wrangler Fortitude HT , excludes ? Winter Maxx SJ8 disability ?? Eagle services, WinterCommand ? Wrangler TrailRunner AT BE FOUND EACH and organizational leadership. WEEK ATRebates paid by Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard® or Visa® Prepaid Card. *By onlineONLINE or mail-in rebate. Reflecting on her ALLOTSEGO.COM retirement, Kennedy ASK AN ASSOCIATE ABOUT THE GOODYEAR 30-DAY PLEDGE †

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A-10 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Mall

Continued from page 5 School District’s Annual Student Art Show, celebrating the creativity and accomplishments of local students. Our longstanding partnership with SUNY Oneonta is highlighted by the annual Canstruction® competition, where student teams create remarkable sculptures from thousands of canned food items that are donated to local food

Legal

Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LLC Martin Salvage, LLC, filed Articles of Organization with the New York Secretary of State on May 20, 2026. Its office is located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail a copy of any process served on him or her to, Martin Salvage, LLC, PO Box 336, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Its business is to engage in any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under Section 203 of the New York Limited Liability Company Act. 6LegalJul.2 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of DJ’s Cards & Creations LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on May 7, 2026. Office location: Otsego County. Secretary of State of NY is designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to 228 Park Ave S #953117, New York, NY 10003. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.2 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Triple M Hunt Farm LLC Articles of organization filed with the SSNY on 3/23/26. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Attilio Somma, 40 Red Creek Road, Hampton Bays,

pantries, helping families facing food insecurity. These partnerships reflect our commitment to strengthening the community and enriching the lives of those we serve. One of the mall’s most valued partnerships is with the Oneonta Family YMCA. Together, we provide free senior fitness and wellness classes every Tuesday through Thursday, promoting healthy aging, improving strength,

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NY 11946. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Common Gardens LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on May 28, 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 103 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Cooperstown Bed & Breakfast LLC Articles of Organization filed with SSNY on 2/1/2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:4485 Culver Rd., Rochester NY, 14622. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of 192 B101 ST LLC. Filed with SSNY on 02/03/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 234 CR 52, COOPERSTOWN, NY 13326. Purpose: Any Lawful. 6LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of MORE SOCIA HUB LLC

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Arts of Org. filed SSNY 4/29/2026 Otsego Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE ST., # 112, ALBANY, NY, 12207 . General Purpose. 6LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF CALLBACK AUDIO, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 17, 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: 20 Gardner Pl., Apt. 98, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.16 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of JEM NY PROPERTIES LLC. Filed 5/6/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Emily Ponte, P.O. Box 452, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: General. 6LegalJul.16 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of MARKSMAN PUBLISHING LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 3/24/26. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 8-12 Dietz St., Ste. 202, Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.16

balance, and mobility, reducing social isolation, and encouraging lasting friendships in a safe, welcoming environment. This collaboration demonstrates how strong community partnerships improve the quality of life for local residents. Supporting these efforts is a highly experienced management team whose combined expertise spans well over a century in retail, property management, hospitality, and customer service. Their commitment to

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personalized service, operational excellence, and community engagement ensures every tenant, customer, and guest is welcomed with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care. I am incredibly proud of the Southside Mall’s continued success and its lasting impact on our community. That success is made possible by an exceptional team of dedicated professionals whose commitment, professionalism, and genuine care create

LEGALS Legal

Legal

Notice of Formation of

York on May 26, 2026. The office of the LLC is located in Otsego County, New York. The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC to: The Ordinariest Company, LLC 438 YMCA Rd., West Oneonta, NY 13861 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of New York. 6LegalJul.23

Lena’s Talents LLC.

Legal nOtice

Articles of Organization were filed with the SSNY on May 6, 2026. Location: Otsego County. SSNY is the Designated Agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 1085 Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 6LegalJul.16

Monument Restoration Project To: The last known owner or owners of the following burial lots located in the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association, town of Otsego, in Otsego County, New York, and all persons having or claiming to have an interest in said burial lots:

14. B-224-1E Harvey, Austin H. (Jr.) 15. B-209-6E Bowman, Anna Marie 16. B-212-1E Bowmaker, James 17. 18. 19. B-139-1W Shepherd, Adaline B. “Addie” 20. C-142-6E Carpenter, Daniel 21. C-144-2W Jones, Mary P. 22. C-144-1W Jones, Edgar J. Jones 23. B-123-1E Hecox, Francis 24. B-122-6W Rexford, Georgie A. 25. B-92-3W Spurbeck, Marinda 26. B-120-3W House, Harvey B. 27. B-166-6E Kendall(AKA Kendell) Cap. (Capt.) Uriah B. Kendall 28. B-166-5E Kendall, Vashti M. Butts Kendall 29. B-166-6E Kendall, Emily Bryant Kendall 30. B-179-2E Wiltse, H. Del Wiltse (AKA Hiram Delbert and H. Del) 31. C-61-5E and 6E Skubitz, William and Audrey 32. C-38-1W Rodd, Susan

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Fly Creek Valley Cemetery

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of THE STONE APARTMENTS, LLC. Filed with SSNY on 04/20/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 99 WASHINGTON AVE., STE. 700, ALBANY, NY 12260. Purpose: Any Lawful 6LegalJul.16 Legal nOtice

Notice of Formation of ANCHOR CREST LLC Arts of Org. filed with SSNY on 5/26/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served & shall mail to: Anchor Crest LLC, P.O. Box 420, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.23 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of The Ordinariest Company, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New

Monument Repair List By Section, Lot, Grave and Name. 1. C-376-4W Graves, George W. 2. C-390-2W DeWitt, Sally Ann (AKA Sarah) 3. B-349-4E Jones, Delevan LeRoy 4. B-349-5E Jones, Linda D. 5. B-349-3E Hooker, Josie E. 6. B-349-2E Foote, Jane S. (AKA Foot) 7. B-347-3E Clarke, Jennie V. 8. B-323-1E and 2E, Hunter, Samuel and Clara H. 9. C-311-2W Ballard, Sarah (Nee: Murray) 10. C-329-4W Phillips, Ella, 5W Phillips, William 11. C-286-5W Best, Mrs. Anna, 6W Mr. Peter Best 12. B-254-3E Stephens(AKA Stevens), Nellie L. 13. B-237-3W Davidson, Permilia L. (AKA Parmelia)

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: That (1) the monuments or markers are so badly out of repair or dilapidated as to create a dangerous condition, (2) the persons to whom this notice is addressed must repair or remove said monuments or markers by Monday, August 31, and, (3) if the persons to whom this notice is addressed fail to repair or remove said monuments or markers by the previously stated deadline, the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association may remove or repair said monuments without further notice to the persons to whom this notice is addressed. Contact the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association (Sherlee Rathbone) by phone at 607-5479334 or by email at flycreeksherl@ gmail.com by the deadline above. 3LegalJul.2

a welcoming, safe, and enjoyable environment for every customer. We strive to make each visit a positive, memorable experience while building a destination our community is proud to call its own. On behalf of the entire Southside Mall family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal customers, valued tenants, community partners and dedicated staff. Your trust and support have been the foundation of our success for

Legal

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Wild Wash N’ Wiggle LLC Arts. Of Org. filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/15/2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail a copy of process to 910 County Highway 34, Schenevus, NY 12155. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJul.30 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY ODESSA ESTATE HOLDINGS & CO LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State on 04/08/2026. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is: 525 COUNTY HIGHWAY 7, OTEGO, NY, 13825. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the law. 6LegalJul.30 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of LOCAL AFFAIRS LLC Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 16, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated

more than four decades. As we look to the future, we remain committed to preserving the traditions that have made the Southside Mall a community landmark while embracing new opportunities for growth. Thank you for making the Southside Mall a place where businesses flourish, friendships are formed, memories are made and our community comes together. Luisa Montanti is the manager of the Southside Mall.

Legal

as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Nikolai Vinokurov, 629A St. Hwy. 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.6 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of LLC ABX Ninjas LLC Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/15/2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 575 Evening Inn Road, Oneonta, New York 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.6 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of LEJ EVENT RENTAL, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York on March 28, 2026 as Selfie Sticker Station LLC. The amendment to change the name to LEJ Event Rental LLC was filed in April and accepted May 14, 2026. The office of the LLC is located in Otsego County, New York. The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC to: LEJ Event Rental, LLC, 352 Main St., #1204, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be organized under the laws of the State of New York. 6LegalAug.6

Legal

Legal nOtice NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION SUBJECT TO PERMISSIVE REFERENDUM NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown, Otsego County, New York at a meeting thereof held on the 22nd day of June 2026, duly adopted pursuant to section 6-C of the General Municipal Law, a resolution subject to permissive referendum, the purpose and effect of which is to authorize an appropriation of $36,500 from Village Equipment Reserves to line A-5110-200 for the purchase of a 2027 Ford F-550. BY ORDER OF THE VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN, NEW YORK Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.gov 1LegalJul.2 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GHO KINGPIN, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Dept. of State of NY on June 24, 2026. Office location: Otsego County. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 100 Woodbine Road, Delmar, New York 12054. LLC does not have a specific date of dissolution. Purpose: All legal purposes. Filer: O’Connell & Aronowitz, P.C., Latham, NY 12110. 6LegalAug.6

►Need to publish a Notice of Formation, Public Notice, Supplemental Summons, or Notice to Bidders? Contact Larissa at 607-547-6103 or ads@allotsego.com and she can get you started.

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-11

CAA’s 91st Annual National Juried Art Exhibition Opens July 10 COOPERSTOWN he Cooperstown Art Association will host a Preview Party and Awards Ceremony celebrating the opening of the 91st Annual National Juried Art Exhibition on Friday, July 10 from 57 p.m. Awards will be announced at 6 p.m. The event is open to the public and will feature refreshments provided by Brimstone Bakery of Sharon Springs, along with live music by Duopoly, featuring Gus Leinhart and John Davey. The National Juried Art Exhibition is one of CAA’s longest-running and most prestigious exhibitions, drawing fine artists from across the United States, officials

said. This year’s exhibition presents the work of 105 artists representing 10 states. Elizabeth Keithline, serving as juror of selection and awards, reviewed submissions from across the country and selected 116 works for inclusion in this year’s show. According to a press release, “Keithline is an internationally exhibited artist recognized for her innovative wire sculptures that explore themes of technology, the built environment and climate.” Since developing her signature technique in 1996, she has expanded her practice to include sculpture, installation, fiber art, public art, and, more recently, collaborative “shadow

paintings” derived from her sculptural work. Her work has been featured in solo exhibitions nationwide and reviewed in publications including “The New York Times,” “Sculpture Magazine,” and “The Boston Globe.” Through her selection process, Keithline has created “a dynamic and diverse exhibition spanning a wide range of media, including drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture,” officials said. More than a dozen works have been selected to receive awards, with recipients to be announced during the Preview Party. “The National Juried Art Exhibition is a celebration of artistic

excellence and creative expression from across the country,” said CAA Executive Director Janet Erway. “We are honored to welcome these artists to Cooperstown and invite our community to experience the remarkable breadth of talent represented in this year’s exhibition.” In addition to exhibition awards, the evening will include the presentation of the 2026 Cooperstown Art Association Art Scholarship Award. This scholarship supports Otsego County students pursuing higher education and careers in the arts. This year, the Cooperstown Art Association is proud to support two local students as they begin

their university studies later this summer, officials said. The 91st Annual National Juried Art Exhibition will be on view in all three CAA galleries from July 11 through August 14. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The galleries will be closed on Saturday, July 25 during the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend. The Cooperstown Art Association—located at 22 Main Street inside the Village Hall building on the corner of Main and Fair streets—is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to supporting artists, arts education and community engagement. Their galleries and exhibi-

tions are always free and open to the public. For more information on current and upcoming exhibitions, visit https:// www.cooperstownart. com/.

Election

“Proof that my campaign’s message resonates with Republicans is that three of my top four counties, Rensselaer, Broome and Columbia, were also the counties I personally knocked on the most doors in. I congratulate Senator Oberacker on his victory, ask my supporters not to write me in, but to know what I will continue advocating for my campaign’s message and don’t rule out another run for public office in the future,” Portelli said. Oberacker did not reply to a request for comment by press time. In the 51st Assembly

District, Christopher Tague holds a narrow lead with 50.36% over Terry Bernardo with 49.64% in unofficial results. Meanwhile, in the 118th Assembly District, Heather Scribner won with 62.33%, defeating Charles Potter with 16.44% and Chanda King with 21.23%. Local races also saw competitive turnout. In Plainfield, Chad Hazekamp earned 52.17%, defeating Eric Fletcher with 47.83% for superintendent of highways. In Richfield, Michael Marmet earned 58.86%, prevailing over Matt Proctor with

41.14% for town justice. Early voting contributed significantly to overall participation, with thousands of residents casting ballots during the nine‑day early‑voting period. When combined with Election Day turnout, county participation exceeded last year’s totals, though final percentages will be

confirmed once absentee and affidavit ballots are counted. According to the Board of Elections, 4,673 of 24,973 registered voters participated in this year’s primary, for 18.71% turnout. In 2024, 741 voters participated, reflecting a ballot with very few contested races.

As the county awaits official certification, candidates across both parties now turn their attention to the November general election, where several races, including the sheriff’s contest and the 102nd Assembly District, are expected to draw substantial interest from voters.

Continued from page 3 his own statement acknowledging the results and expressing gratitude to supporters. “While last night’s results were not what our campaign hoped for, I am incredibly grateful for the support, encouragement and trust that so many people placed in our effort,” he said. He congratulated Tweed and pledged to help Democrats “Flip 102 Blue in November.” Boomhower also noted the increased participation in this year’s primary, saying, “Almost 2,000 more people voted in this primary than 2024. That’s the engagement we need to strengthen our communities.” In statewide Democratic contests, New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli won decisively with 72.62%, defeating challengers Drew Warshaw with 16.00% and Raj Goyle with 11.38%. On the Republican side, Senator Peter Oberacker secured a commanding victory in the race for the 19th Congressional District, earning 79.20% of the vote over Alexander Portelli with 20.80%. Portelli had this to say: “I am incredibly proud of the results. My opponent was a sitting state senator with district wide name recognition, a presidential endorsement, and 11 out of 11 CD-19 Republican county committees endorsing him. With little name recognition and no major backing, just a powerful message, I managed to gain 22 percent of Republican Primary voters’ confidence anyway.

WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOU Promotions, births, meetings, new hires, events, milestones, grand openings, sports results, anniversaries and more. Photos welcome, too! info@allotsego.com

The

job scene To place effective employment ads, call 607-547-6103

Parks Supervisor Full-time

The Village of Cooperstown has an opening in th position of Parks Supervisor Requirements include good knowledge of park construction and maintenance activities; ability to supervise the work of others; ability to follow oral and written instructions; ability to keep records and make reports; reliability; physical strength and endurance; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and two years full time paid experience in parks and/or recreational facility and building maintenance. Possession of a valid Class D or greater NYS Driver’s license is required for employment.

This position also requires plowing snow and sanding in a non-CDL required vehicle. The salary for this position starts at $24.00 per hour. This is a full-time position with a competitive wage and attractive benefits. For further information regarding the position and to obtain an application please contact the Village Clerk’s Office at 607-547-2411 or send your resume and cover letter to: Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346 Cooperstown, NY 13326

EOE

Attention

Interviewing for: Advertising Sales Agent Applicants are currently being sought for the position of advertising sales agent to represent “The Freeman’s Journal,” “Hometown Oneonta” and “AllOtsego” media outlets. Required skills include: Excellent communication skills essential. • Driver’s license necessary Must be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Experience preferred but not necessary; will train the right candidate. Please send cover letter and resume to info@allotsego.com, with “Sales Position” in the subject line. No phone calls, please. 16--$18/hr + plus commission

A-12 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Taking care of you takes care of everyone. Love,

P.S. Find mental health resources

LoveYourMindToday.org

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Letters

Continued from page 4 Heroes” available, which are available to purchase through me. Anyone wishing to submit letters for the third book can contact me at Joanie Parrillo, PO Box 493, Cooperstown NY 13326 or (607) 287-0877. Joanie Parrillo Toddsville

Anthony Event a Big Success The League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area presented “Susan B. Anthony Speaks” on Sunday, June 28. With LWVCA Co-president Laura Wetzel’s awesome vision and planning, and help from many board members, the event was a knockout. We had live earlyAmerican folk music on the lawn of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown (where Susan B. Anthony spoke in 1855), and then “Susan B. Anthony,” played by Linda McKenney, welcomed us into the church. Her presentation was captivating— personal and full of fascinating history and a passion for justice. Local artist Christine Heller spoke about her stunning suffragist portraits on display around the church. Martha Membrino, member of the Friends of the Village Library, discussed the beautiful history banners on loan from the Village Library of Cooperstown. Ashley Hopkins Benton of the New York State Museum shared some history with us, and Pastor Jess Lambert welcomed us and shared a bit about the church, its history, and its community. Nearly 100 people

filled the room and stayed afterward to look, visit and buy books from Jim Havener’s pop-up Green Toad Bookstore. We introduced our “Defending Democracy at Home” campaign to raise $10,000.00 to reach voters. We are so grateful to our sponsors, the Cooperstown Rotary Foundation and the Otsego County America250 Fund. We’re also indebted to our 12 co-sponsors who helped spread the word: the Community Foundation of Otsego County; Connections at Clark Sports Center; Cooperstown Graduate Program; the Fly Creek Area Historical Society; “The Freeman’s Journal;” Friends of the Village Library of Cooperstown; Green Toad Bookstore; the Hartwick College Institute of Public Service; the Race, Equity and Justice Series of the First Baptist Church of Cooperstown; Rotary Club of Cooperstown; the Village of Cooperstown; and the Village Library of Cooperstown. Thanks to all for making this an event that inspired us to reflect on our history as our country turns 250, and to commit ourselves to defending our precious democracy. Hudi Podolsky LWVCA Co-president Cooperstown

An Open Letter to Coop BOE Shame on Cooperstown Central School administrators for not allowing the National Anthem to be played at the CCS 2026 Graduation Ceremony. One of the most important events in the lives of our youth, of families, and of the community, with an incredible venue—it is shameful

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-13 that, with our school band waiting patiently for a signal to begin, it never came. What a kick in the teeth for our CCS band members, having practiced diligently for this honor. As an alumni of Cooperstown Central, this shameful act would never have been permitted when I attended school. I need not point out that this being a special celebration of our nation—acknowledging the hundreds of thousands of veterans who served and died for our freedom—that this is appalling. My father, along with thousands of unnamed men, lied about their age to fight for us. He was only 16 years of age and entered the Army during World War II. I am requesting, in writing, who made the decision to ignore the program, ignore patriotism of our country, and assume that they had the right to forfeit this special salute to me and others that love America. Who made the decision and who will apologize to me, the graduates, and the community? I noticed that the administration didn’t forget to announce themselves. Sherlee Rathbone Native Daughter, Class of 1966 Fly Creek Editor’s Note: CCS Board President Peter Iorizzo said in a statement on Tuesday, June 30: “It was simply an oversight. The intention was for the band to play the anthem at the start of the ceremony, but the superintendent forgot to cue them to begin.” Interim Superintendent John Evans apologized for the oversight, confirming to AllOtsego that it was human error on his part and “certainly not intentional.”

Edson

Continued from page 3 of multi-generational families like the Edsons and newcomers seeking a taste of quiet rural life. This small and tight-knit nature lends itself to a community that values its history—something apparent in the public reaction to Jeff’s efforts to preserve it. Peter Paffenroth, president of the Goodyear Lake Association, spoke admiringly of Jeff’s commitment to restoring the farmhouse, acknowledging the importance of preserving the town’s rich history. “I think it’s fantastic because there are so many of these old farms and farmhouses that they just let go,” Paffenroth remarked. Jeff “has history with this town, and he loves it.” Paffenroth had faith Jeff could get the restoration done right, stating, “I know he’ll do that because he really cares about where he lives.” That faith paid off in 2025 when Jeff finally completed his grand project. Sleek white clapboard sidings now compliment large windows and pale blue trims, invoking a Greek revival style. All nine bedrooms have received new furnishings, including periodaccurate bedframes and nightstands. Rooms like the kitchen and living quarters retain an antique air, despite the presence of electric stoves and flat screen TVs. Generations of Edson family legacy now live again through the restored home—an ethereal notion not lost on Jeff. A deeply religious man, this labor of love became a spiritual journey for Jeff, who

recalled writing scripture on the home’s walls before applying the final coat of paint. Despite seemingly-limitless time, resources and discipline being dedicated to the farmhouse, Jeff retains an impassioned humbleness regarding his role in the restoration process. “According to biblical principles, land is not truly owned by humans but entrusted to them,” Jeff said. “By restoring the farm, I am acting as a steward or caretaker of God’s earth, reversing the neglect that fell upon it.” This caretaker status continues to be embodied by Jeff across the community. Reflecting his knowledge of the needs of the healthcare system, the Edson farmhouse now serves as a residency for traveling nurses servicing the local Bassett Healthcare Network. Housing is otherwise hard to come by, with Bassett executives acknowledging disruptions to housing as a primary contributor

to the network’s poor recruitment and retention rates. Jeff and Antonucci are continuing a multi-year push to place the farmhouse on the New York State Historical Registry. Registry status would grant the Edson farm a formal recognition of historical importance from the state, providing potential tax credits and grant opportunities while limiting future alterations to the property, preserving it for years to come. “Standing in the hallway today, the house feels less like a project and more like a person who has finally returned home,” Jeff said. “After years in the hands of strangers, these walls once again belong to the family that first raised them. By placing it on the Historical Registry, I’m not just preserving a building; I’m ensuring that for the next seven generations, this piece of Otsego County history will never be lost again.”

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THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

A-14 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA THE PARTIAL OBSERVER

JOSEPH HOMBURGER

Manocherian Plan Is Neither Financially Sound Nor Sustainable

ith 1,500 acres of largely undeveloped land in play with the proposed subdivision, there is the need to address the consequences of transforming the property as it currently exists into the plan the Manocherian family continues to pursue. The Manocherian plan is unsound from an economic perspective as well as from a sustainable environmental standpoint. Calls for a moratorium on subdivisions of properties greater than 20 acres in size as the Town of Otsego moves forward with its comprehensive plan and the subsequent revisions to zoning maps, codes rules, and regulations that will be necessary to fully implement the vision of their revised comprehensive plan have gone unheeded by the Otsego Town Board. A moratorium continues to be relevant and desirable in light of the pending Town of Otsego process as well as “The Nine Element Watershed Management Plan” currently engaging the Towns of Middlefield, Otsego, Richfield, Springfield, and the Village of Cooperstown (with an investment of $750,000.00 in taxpayer funds). Otsego Lake’s highest and best use is for its utilization as a potable public water supply. Provisions of New York State Codes, Rules and Regulations, Public Health Law 1100, and other measures are in place to guard this resource attribute. The best way to protect this public water supply (as well as the fish, wildlife and scenic/historical attributes of Otsego Lake) is to greatly limit development in the watershed (e.g., those lands over which water flows before reaching the lake). The Village of

Cooperstown, Cooperstown Watershed Supervisory Committee, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, entrepreneurs, the public, and the environment are stakeholders in the outcome of this critical land-use decision. I am calling upon the Towns of Otsego, Springfield, and each of the administrative bodies associated with reviews and approvals of this proposal to initiate steps to preclude the subdivision and buildout of the subject 1,500 acres of land. I am aware of instances where entrepreneurs and developers have strategized for achieving enhanced prices for property they wish to sell by obtaining authorizations, permits or approvals as a means of gaining higher appraised values on their holdings prior to offering it for sale. Let one not forget that in Upstate New York property appraisals are based, in measure, on comparable local sales. Larger forested and agricultural lands historically sell for less per acre than building lots or smaller rural developable parcels. It is fair for the Manocherian family to gain fair market value for the property it owns. They have paid taxes, yet they have also gained revenue from timber sales on their holdings. Now they are spending irretrievable money on attorneys and consultants in a drip, drip fashion on a proposal with a highly speculative outcome. Groundwater quality and quantity, wastewater management, highway construction and maintenance, potential open space (islands of such places do not ecosystem connectivity or sustainability make) are

only some of the issues that would be avoided if another option was taken. It will take the intent of the Manocherian family to be a willing seller of the vast majority of their holding to a willing buyer for the greater good and to avoid costs to the public for additional municipal water treatment, roadway upgrades and maintenance, watershed land-use inspections, plus numerous other such details. One-stop shopping for the Manocherian family and an end to a drip, drip, drip that could end in no viable subdivision approval? The Glimmerglass Historic District (established 2000) is a notable cultural element worthy of valuable consideration in the context of what can become next steps. The New York State Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 provided $650 million for open space conservation and recreation throughout the state. Is there among all the interested parties one willing to facilitate communication with the Manocherian family and be willing to take on the procurement of funding for a purchase to conserve these critical sensitive lands? Joseph Homburger is a resident of the Town of Middlefield, a retired New York State Department of Environmental Conservation environmental analyst/permit administrator, and longstanding environmental advocate. The above comments were submitted to the Otsego Town Board on June 23, 2026.

Oneonta Announces Big Plans for America250, Starting Thursday ONEONTA neonta will kick off its four days of celebration for America’s 250th birthday from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, July 2. First Thursday will take place at Muller Plaza and around the downtown Oneonta area. Hope Von Stengel, executive director of the Community Arts Network of Oneonta, said that among the many activities through the evening, participants will see window murals, created by local artists, and chalk murals up and down Main Street. Music will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Muller Plaza, by the Nate Gross Band. There will be free arts activities, face painting and additional family-friendly events. Several downtown shops will stay open later. The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will be

open for its “Revolution” exhibit. At 6 p.m. at the Black Oak, there will be history trivia. Baked and Brewed Café will feature music and comedy from 4-9 p.m. Many restaurants will have specials on food and drinks through the evening. “Downtown Oneonta and CANO have a long history,” Von Stengel said, “and it was a great way to connect with so many organizations in preparing for Oneonta’s celebration of the 250th,” she said of joining efforts with the America250 Oneonta Committee. Festivities move to the Sixth Ward from 37 p.m. Friday, July 3, as the historic SwartWilcox House Museum celebrates a milestone national anniversary, just as they did with America’s Bicentennial in 1976. Helen Rees, president of the Swart-Wilcox

Board of Directors, said, “We have a very long history with the community as well, as Lawrence Swart was one of Oneonta’s early settlers in Oneonta, and built the house, today’s museum, in 1807. We will celebrate Lawrence Swart’s service to the country, as he served in the Revolution.” Doors will open at 3 p.m. for tours of the house. At 4 p.m. there will be an installation of the Lawrence Swart plaque by the Oneonta chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. A local Boy Scout Honor Guard will play Taps. There will also be a planting of a Liberty Tree after the program. Music follows by the Contrasonics, and an exhibit detailing the museum’s barn project. Susan Trump, local folk singer and composer, will lead a group of school

children in a song originally written in 1990 and since updated. Brooks’ House of B-B-Q will be onsite from 4-6 p.m. and Stewart’s will host an ice cream social. At 5 p.m., two regional teams will play a vintage baseball game using mid-19th century rules. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for the day’s festivities. Parking is available at the Riverside Elementary School lot. On Saturday, July 4, the traditional Hometown Fourth events will be held, with a parade on Main Street and full day and evening of events and fireworks in Neahwa Park. More information is at hometown4th.com. History will repeat itself from 1-5 p.m. Sunday with Huntington Park’s Festival Under the Big Tent. This is a re-creation of a Redpath Chautauqua event that took place in 1914 in

TOWN TALK: ONEONTA

Huntington Park, which featured music, educational opportunities and various events. Huntington Memorial Library Director Alex Benjamin looks forward to the library and park hosting the conclusion of a busy weekend. “We’ll have local bands playing, community organizations with games and activities, ice cream, food trucks, face painting, balloon animals being made, a local history scavenger hunt, a blacksmith doing demonstrations, quilters, and a lot more,” according to Benjamin. At 1 p.m., music by the Oneonta Community Concert Band and the Realtime Dixieland Band will begin. Thre will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence by community leaders under the big tent, and a few “voices from the past,”

among other entertainment throughout the afternoon. Bring lawn chairs or blankets, and due to anticipated heat, water bottles. Preceding Sunday’s activities, at 10 a.m. there will be a Community Worship Service, also under the big tent at Huntington Park. All are welcome, and should bring lawn seating. The rain site will be at the First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street. America 250 Oneonta events are supported by the City of Oneonta, New York Central Mutual Insurance, Country Club Motors, Brooks House of B-B-Q, Key Bank, Future for Oneonta Foundation, Community Foundation of Otsego County and Otsego County America 250. More details can be found at Facebook: Oneonta250.

joshua youngquist

Rivera on Priorities, Projects, Fairness and Endless Opportunity

he Town of Oneonta is moving through a period of steady change, and Town Supervisor Will Rivera says the community is ready for what comes next. In a detailed conversation with AllOtsego, Rivera outlined the town’s major priorities, the projects now underway, and his vision for a future where Town of Oneonta residents—and the revenue they generate—are fully recognized at the county level. Rivera began by explaining the town’s place in the region. “The city is like a donut hole, and the town is the donut. We’re the large area—West End, Southside, East End,” he said. As the main corridor between Cooperstown and the City of Oneonta, the town carries much of the area’s commercial activity and infrastructure needs. One of the largest efforts is the $7 million Southside transportation project, funded by the New York State Department of Transportation. Rivera said the investment will make the corridor safer “for those that are walking it, driving it, or biking there,” and help residents, workers, and visitors travel through the area more easily. He thanked Governor Kathy Hochul and DOT for supporting the project. Another major initiative is the West End Economic Development Survey, supported by a $40,000.00 award from Empire State Development. Rivera said the town will hire a consultant to gather data, create renderings, and run focus groups to learn “what the West End needs…how we’re going to improve the economy, how we’re going to bring jobs, entertainment,

housing, and use up all our spaces meaningfully.” The long‑term goal is to apply for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which could bring in “almost $14-15 million” if the town is selected. Housing remains a central concern, especially for young people who want to stay in the area after college. Rivera pointed to the town’s renewed Short Term Rental Ad-Hoc Committee, which is expected to share recommendations soon. The goal, he said, is to “balance the housing for individuals that want to stay here…but also understand that short‑term rentals do have an opportunity.” Rivera also spoke about the town’s role in generating county revenue, and how little of that revenue returns to the town. “The Town of Oneonta generates about 75 percent of the sales tax revenue for the whole county,” he said. “We maybe get 0.15 of that revenue because 12 percent automatically goes to the city due to a really archaic formula, and then the other goes to the county and the other municipalities.” He said the current formula cannot continue. “We can’t continue down that path…we’re the largest area within the county that’s being developed,” he said. Even “one extra percent” of revenue would help the town repair roads, update equipment, hire staff and manage growing infrastructure needs, according to Rivera. Rivera said the town’s small staff makes the imbalance even harder. “We don’t have six people working in codes… we don’t have a planner or a grant writer,” he said.

Rivera added that he works “60- to 80-hour weeks on top of another full‑time paying job,” which shows how much pressure local government faces. A fairer share of revenue, he said, would directly help residents. “Any extra that we get from the county, that’s a tax break—that’s a huge win,” Rivera said, pointing out that even a small tax cut could help families afford groceries, medical bills or holiday expenses. Rivera also discussed the town’s well‑known data‑center moratorium, which drew strong public involvement. He said the board acted “in unison” and that his own decision was shaped by “the 700 signatures we received, the hundreds of people that came to meetings.” He stressed transparency in the process. “As long as I’m here, you’re getting everything…we’re not getting as many visitors during board meetings because I think people feel that they’re okay right now,” he said. Throughout the conversation, Rivera returned to the same message: his commitment to the people who live in Oneonta. “My goal as just a concerned person in general is how can I be creative in making sure that I address [the community’s needs]. But also, I know that I will fight for my community when I need to.” Rivera’s vision for Oneonta is rooted in growth, fairness, and opportunity—shaped by residents, strengthened by state investment, and supported by his push for a more balanced share of county revenue.

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-15

Things To Do In and Around Otsego County _________

A-16 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

►FriDAy, July 3 GRIEF—“Camp ForgetMe-Not.” Free, one-day camp and safe place for kids to make new friends, share big feelings, and learn how to cope with grief. Facilitated by Helios Care grief professionals. Open to children ages 618 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Registration required by 7/16. Held 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on 7/23 at Townsend Elementary School, 42-66 North Street, Walton. (607) 4326773. OPENING RECEPTION—4-6 p.m. Art exhibit celebrating the work of artist/educator Rhea Nowak and her fascination with notation, communication, and the act of reading itself. The Gatehouse, 130 Main Street, Morris. (607) 2854111. OPENING RECEPTION—5-8 p.m. “Art of Glimmerglass.” Cherry Valley First Friday event. Show runs through 8/2. 25 Main Collective, 21 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-5340. REOPENING—5 p.m. Celebrate the grand reopening of The Telegraph School with art exhibit, First Friday open mic, refreshments and more. The Telegraph School, 83 Alden Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3785. LIVE MUSIC— 5:30 p.m. Barn Swallows. The Al Gallodoro Memorial Stage, Muller Plaza, Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 434-8458. CONCERT—6 p.m. Cooperstown Community Band performance before the fireworks. Lakefront Park, Cooperstown. (607) 267-9051. LIVE MUSIC—6-9 p.m. The Lake House Summer Concert Series: The Herring and The Hummingbird. Back Patio, The Lake House, 2521 County Highway 22, Richfield Springs. (720) 940-8377.

LIVE MUSIC— 6-10 p.m. Mopar Cams. Includes food truck, outdoor/indoor bar and bonfire. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. info@ ommegang.com. BASEBALL—7 p.m. Oneonta Outlaws vs. Amsterdam Mohawks. Damaschke Field, Neahwa Park, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 433-0545. CONTRADANCE— 7:30 p.m. Featuring caller Ted Crane. Music provided by Quicksilver. Presented by the Otsego Dance Society. Fees apply. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites, 138 Towers Road, Milford. (607) 547-8164. FUNDRAISER—8 p.m. “Star Spangled 70s Disco Fundraiser.” Dance, disco outfits, music, refreshments and more. Proceeds benefit The Major’s Inn restoration projects. Tickets required. The Major’s Inn, 104 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. themajorsinn@gmail.com.

►SatURDAY, July 4 YARD SALE—10 a.m. “Cooperstown Community Yard Sale Day.” Locals are invited to set up and sell. Fees apply; registration required. Held first Saturday of the month through September. Oaks Creek Farm and Market, 4970 State Highway 28, Cooperstown. (607) 7798580. CLOSING—11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Obsessed (Artists).” Quirky assemblages, Kelley drawings and spalted bowls. On view 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays through 7/4. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 9419607. EXERCISE—Noon. “Let’s Move: Come Play Capoeira.” Unique Brazilian practice that blends martial arts, dance, music and culture. All welcome. Held each

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Time OuT OTsegO Things To Do In and Around Otsego County

Saturday. Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6600. BASEBALL—6 p.m. Oneonta Outlaws vs. Boonville Lumberjacks. Damaschke Field, Neahwa Park, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 4330545. LIVE MUSIC— 7-10 p.m. The Lake House Summer Concert Series: Downshift Southern Rock. Lakeside Stage, The Lake House, 2521 County Highway 22, Richfield Springs. (720) 940-8377.

►SunDAY, July 5 FUNDRAISER— 8 a.m. Community Pancake Breakfast. Fees apply. Discounts for military, WIC, SNAP, etc. Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabin and Campsites, 138 Towers Road, Milford. (607) 293-7324. CHANGEOVER DAY— 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Avoid heavy traffic and pedestrians on State Route 205. Cooperstown All Star Village, Oneonta. wegootsego.com/changeover/ MILFORD FARMERS’ MARKET—10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Held each Sunday, Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekends. Curry Park, State Highway 28, Milford. LIVE MUSIC—1-3 p.m. “Sunday Sessions with Pet Names.” The Gatehouse, 130 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111. MUSIC—6 p.m. “Oneonta Kirtan: Interfaith Devotional Music Meditation.” Held first Sunday of each month. First Presbyterian Church of Oneonta, 296 Main Street, Oneonta. PERFORMANCE— 8-10 p.m. “Axis Mundi.” Educational and per-

formative event/call to action by Guggenheim dance artist Maureen Fleming. Followed by a discussion on why data centers and pipelines are the same thing right now and more. Suggested donation applies; tickets required. Pumpkin Hollow Arts Center, 1157 Frank Briggs Road, Oneonta.

►MonDAY, July 6 CHANGEOVER DAY— 2-3:30 p.m. If traveling south on State Route 28, seek an alternate route. Cooperstown Dreams Park, Cooperstown. wegootsego.com/changeover/ LIVE MUSIC— 5:30 p.m. Summer Concert: Sundown Duo. Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377 ext. 147.

►TuesDAY, July 7 COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS—8-9 a.m. Local community members gather to chat about what’s happening around Oneonta. Held each Tuesday. Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6600. COMMUNITY HIKE— 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at Emmons Bog, Oneonta. (607) 4318010. SENIOR MEALS— 11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal Monday-Friday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of macaroni and cheese, green beans,

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

stewed tomatoes, and mandarin oranges. (607) 547-6454. • Each Monday-Friday. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. • Each Tuesday and Thursday. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. BLOOD DRIVE—Noon to 5 p.m. Fox Care, 1 Fox Care Drive, Oneonta. RedCrossBlood.org MINECRAFT CLUB— 1 p.m. Held Tuesdays through 8/11. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980. HOBBY HANGOUT— 3 p.m. “Gimp Keychains.” Bring a work in progress or start something new. Open to all aged 8+. Springfield Library, 129 County Highway 29A Springfield Center. (315) 858-5802. VETERANS—3-5 p.m. Tour the Oneonta Veterans Museum, featuring memorabilia, photographs and more donated by local families. Free; donations appreciated. On view 3-5 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday. American Legion Post 259, 279 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 4320494. MEET & GREET— 5:30 p.m. “Welcome Home Cooperstown.” Newcomers meet the members of the community and connect with local organizations. This month features the Glimmerglass Opera Guild providing refreshments, discussion of the 2026 opera season and a performance by members of The Glimmerglass Festival’s Young American Artist Program. Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. CONCERT—7 p.m. Cooperstown Community Band. Schuyler Lake Food Pantry, 1472 County Highway 22, Schuyler Lake. (607) 267-9051.

►WedNESDAY, July 8 NETWORKING—9 a.m. “Rise and Shine Networking Breakfast.” Fees apply. Social Eats Café, 546 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-4500. SENIOR MEALS—Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal MondayFriday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of fish on a bun, coleslaw, spinach and cookies. (607) 547-6454. • 11:30 a.m. Each Monday-Friday. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. • Noon. Each Monday and Wednesday. Cherry Valley Facilities Corporation Café, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. SUMMER MOVIES— Noon. “Paddington in Peru.” Worcester-Schenevus Library at the Worcester Wieting Theatre, 168 Main Street, Worcester. worcesterwieting@gmail. com. NATURE—2-6 p.m. “Women in Wildlife Day!” Outdoor activities to encourage women to embrace their interests in wildlife, conservation, biology, and STEM fields. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Road 31, Cooperstown. (607) 5478662. • All day. Free crafts at the Nature Center. • 2-3 p.m. Group Hike. Beaver Pond Trail. • 3-4 p.m. Picnic on the Beach. • 4-5 p.m. Film Showing at the Nature Center. • 5-6 p.m. Pain and (Sober) Sip on the Beach. LIBRARY— 2:30-4:30 p.m. “St. Tim’s Library Corner.” Held each Wednesday. Presented by WorcesterSchenevus Library at St. Timothy’s Church, 1776 County Road 34, Westford. (607) 397-7309.

CROCHET CIRCLE— 3 p.m. Held each Wednesday. WorcesterSchenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309. FREE DINNER— 5-7 p.m. All welcome to enjoy assorted soups, a salad and various desserts. Free; donations gratefully accepted. Held 2nd Wednesday of each month. Unatego Community Church, 290 Main Street, Otego. (607) 3697425. SCUBA—5-8 p.m. “Discover Scuba.” Presented by Leatherstocking SCUBA at the Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. leatherstocking.scuba@ gmail.com. ART CLASS—6-9 p.m. “Figure This! Open Studio Life Drawing.” Non-instructional workshop with models for sketching. Hosted by a Cooperstown Art Association. Fees apply, cash. Held each Wednesday. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-9777. DINNER—6 p.m. July Dinner at Oneonta Elks #1312. Roast beef dinner, potatoes, vegetables, salad, rolls, tea, coffee and dessert. Fees apply; reservations required. Veterans eat free. Oneonta Elks Lodge #1312, 84-86 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1312. LIVE MUSIC— 6:30-8 p.m. “Laurens Summer Concert Series: The Ancients.” Classic country, rock and originals. Free. Knapp Park, Corner of Main Street and County Highway 11A, Laurens. (607) 441-5431. ADDICTION— 6:30-8 p.m. “New Creation Addiction Care.” Support, honest conversations and hope in a new identity, focusing on life transformation through faith. Presented by the Community Bible Chapel at the Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. (607) 547-9764. BASEBALL—7 p.m. Oneonta Outlaws vs. Utica Blue Sox. Damaschke Field, Neahwa Park, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 433-0545. LIVE MUSIC—7 p.m. Concerts in the Park: Dirt Road Express. Classics, country, 50s and 60s. Spring Park, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0964.

►Thursday, July 9 CRAFT—10 a.m. to 7 p.m. “Open Sew.” Work with fellow crafters on current projects. Fees apply. Message/call to reserve a spot. Held each Thursday. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 441-3111. FIREFIGHTERS—Noon. Otsego County Firemen’s Convention. Includes parade with floats, entertainment, vendors and fireworks. Hosted by the Otego Fire Department at the Otego American Legion field, Willow Street, Otego. LIBRARY—1 p.m. K-9 Program. Unadilla Public Library, 193 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-3131 GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP—1-2:30 p.m. Free group open to all aged 18+. Drop-ins welcome. Facilitated by staff trained in grief and loss. A safe and confidential space to focus on understanding the grief process, make sense of strong emotions, and learn from other community members. Held second Thursday of each month. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Road 52, Cooperstown. (607) 432-5525.

►Visit allotsego. com/otsego-countyevents-calendar/ for the full calendar.