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COOP M IA

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founded in 1808

congratulations to this year’s clark scholarship recipients! page 2 VISIT www.ALLOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER/ONLINE Volume 218, No. 28

Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, July 9, 2026

Newsstand Price $1

Community Packs OCSD Board Meeting, Calling for Transparency, Accountability

BACK TO VICE! E SER TABLE-SID

By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

ONEONTA early 100 people crowded into a sweltering room—“over 100 degrees with no AC,” as Kaytee Lipari Shue described it—during the July 1 Oneonta City School District Board of Education meeting. Despite the heat, attendees stayed for the entire session, determined to witness the board’s deliberations and decision‑making. The meeting was also livestreamed on Facebook, where additional staff,

-1782 607-432 q.com b brooksb

faculty and community members watched. According to Lipari Shue, “Many people, both in person and online, criticized the district’s lack of transparency and called on the board to improve it.” Lipari Shue, an Oneonta High School graduate, OCSD parent, 39‑year Oneonta resident, district employee, and president of the Oneonta City Schools’ Clerical Association, said the turnout reflected deep concern about how the school district communicates and makes decisions. “There was an amazing show of solidarity,” she said, Continued on page 11

Board Finances New Projects, Honors Former Rep. Koutnik By BILL BELLEN

OTSEGO COUNTY rior to a relatively brief public meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives on July 1, the Public Works and Public Safety and Legal Affairs Committees met for special sessions to vote on new expenses dipping into the county’s contingency fund. Highway Superintendent Richard Brimmer presented to the Public Works Committee via Zoom, requesting funds to award the construction bid for the Town of Milford’s County Route 58A bridge to ING Civil, Inc. at a cost not to exceed $2,684,400.00. Brimmer explained that the final total came out to be higher than initial estimates and that $350,000.00 would be needed from contingency to cover the bill. Brimmer noted that the county already spent between $50,000.00-$70,000.00 last year to temporarily reopen the bridge INSIDE

► FCVCA HAS grave goals, page 3 ► GOODBYE TO GRAHAM, page 4 ► TAKING WALDO TO TASK, page 4 ► ITHACA GOT IT RIGHT, page 5 ► YOUR NEIGHBORS IN THE NEWS, page 6 ► JOHN HANCOCK LIVE! page 7 ► THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO GO, page 12 Follow Breaking News On

after it had failed inspection, but that it was already rapidly deteriorating and would likely fail to pass again this year. During the PSLA Committee meeting, Emergency Services Director Victor Jones Zoomed in to discuss the local states of emergency in Pittsfield and Laurens. After an update on service restoration, Jones shared that the New York State Department of Health delivered the framework for the newly-required county EMS comprehensive plan. He said the plan will officially dictate what agency responds when a 911 ambulance call is made and what happens if an ambulance is unable to respond to a call. To draft the plan, Jones requested $18,250.00 from contingency to cover the costs of consultant fees, which he said had to come from local funds due to the state funds not being allocated to support municipalities in constructing their plans. He highlighted that the plan will Continued on page 11

Happy Birthday, America!

Photo by Cindy Falk

COOPERSTOWN—Fireworks in honor of the Fourth of July and America’s 250th birthday went off without a hitch from Fairy Spring on Friday, July 3.

The Rabbit Hole: Family Business, Community Mission By PEYTON CARTER

COOPERSTOWN or many residents of the Village of Cooperstown, in recent years a quick trip to pick up a gallon of milk or a carton of eggs once meant driving across town to the grocery store. Today, thanks to The Rabbit Hole on Main Street, those everyday errands can be completed with a short walk. The family-owned market has quickly become a favorite among locals by offering convePhoto by Peyton Carter nience, affordable prices and a Convenience, affordable prices and a welcoming atmosphere are hallmarks welcoming atmosphere that of The Rabbit Hole on Cooperstown’s Main Street. reflects the values of its owners. The Rabbit Hole is operated by Brown, and their four children, business. Although the Browns Erika Brown, her husband, Vince making it a true family-run carefully planned their opening,

they ended up launching earlier than planned during last year’s Hall of Fame Weekend. “We were still setting up,” Erika Brown recalled. “People kept walking in asking if they could buy water, so we figured we might as well open.” What began as an unexpected opening has grown into one of Main Street’s most unique small businesses. The idea for The Rabbit Hole was born from a simple everyday inconvenience. With only one family vehicle, the Browns found that whoever stayed home often faced a long walk to Price Chopper just to pick up basic necessities. Continued on page 8

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

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THURSDAY, juLY 9, 2026

A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

ALUTE TO THE 2026 CLARK SCHOLARS

Jane Forbes Clark, president of The Clark Foundation, has announced first-year college scholarship grants to 191 students, totaling $741,700.00. The Clark Foundation Scholarship Program includes the school districts of Cherry Valley-Springfield, Cooperstown, Edmeston, Gilbertsville-Mount Upton, Laurens, Milford, Morris, Mount Markham, Owen D. Young, Richfield Springs, Schenevus, Worcester, and the Otsego Area Occupational Center-BOCES. Cherry Valley-Springfield

edmeSton Central

mount markham Central

worCeSter Central SChool

Ethan Phillip All Anna Lynn Baker Graham Barown Raymond Andrew Glowicki Andrew John Lusk Madelynn Jean McCord Hannah Brynn Sheldon Ethan Michael Stannard Madison Ward

Maxwell C. Bolton Mikenna Buriello Chelsey Marie Clegg Olivia Paige Conklin Benjamin Werner Fickbohm Nolan Robert Fickbohm Julien James Turner Isabella Grace White Landon William Chilion Wust

CooperStown Central

gilbertSVille-mount upton

Grayson Thaddeus Lawrence Basso Rowan Dunham Melanie Winter Felitti Alena Anne Hahn Ciara M. Kaltenbach Lola Belle Kelley William Martin Abagail Olivia Pasqualino Matthew Thomas Sanders Jeremy Strobeck Jr.

Bianca Adam Evelyn Elisabeth Baldo Kathleen Barlow Anna Jean Bravin Rimma Michelle Bravin Helena Mae Burr Kayleigh Elizabeth Butler Cooper Alan Coleman Kate Lynne Crippen Jackson Francis Crisman Deidre Rose Domine Maria Falso Theodore William Feury Jameson Douglas Gable Rigzin Lhamo Gazan Eva Rose Gibson Wyatt John Gordon Sonam Barden Gyamtso Brendan Heavner Thomas Michael Hellenthal Jack Michael Howard Morgan Paige Huestis Jacob Thomas Johnson London Kinley Maximus Frederick Koffer Benjamin Andrew Lewis Madeleine Spring Lukovsky Elias Archibald Macleish Grace Morgan McLean Jensen Marie Merwin Ava Minenna Caitlin Elizabeth O’Sullivan Arya Sujata Patel Joseph Sebastian Paterno Mia Pelcer Matthew James Perrino Clara Evelyn Pokorny Emily Skylar Rawitch Alexis Caroline Ray Emma Mae Smith Marco Spinosa Mia Stenzel

Alice Kay Dibble Andrea Marie Favinger Bailey Joy Howard Mackenzi Lin Marron Kira Elizabeth Nolan Lillian Christina Perrine Latham Lewis Retz Adam Alexander Yasser

Zain Thomas-Lane Abanatha Arianna Jade Arkema Cashen Atwell Esther Brutsky Dameon Thad Case Kenneth Craig Matthew Jason Denicola Allison Marie Denton Jacob Thomas Donley Avery Rebecca Dye Logan Eck Robert Bernard Entwistle Navy Escamilla Marie Francisco Alexandria Jennie Graziano Samantha Grace Hinman Robert Huntley Richard John Inman Owen Brace Jones Ayva Kantor Evan J. Kocienda Kage Russell Krause Maisie Lemieux Jenny Lewandowski Joshua Moretti Ava Moxham Leah Moxham Kacie Rianne Owen Kyra Piersma Layla Stella Rice Cheyenne Tanney Alannys Harmony Townsend Brianna Tooke Ohin Williams

laurenS Central SChool Allison Rose Johnson Mallory Kovacs Mackenzie Jayden Louden Alicia Stevens Hannah May Weiss Ryleigh Emma Williams Logan Michael Wright milford Central SChool Anders Lazaro Barberi Vega Rhys Vincent Calleja Tobias Lloyd Cotten Kaleigh R. Davis Tyler March Alexander John Mohn Skyler James Oakley Carmen Arlene Roe Claire Elaine Smith Alexis Rae Sutphin morriS Central SChool Jonah W. Baldo Hailey Canfield Brodie Michael Coleman Luis Angel Cruz Alisandra Sage Farmer Robert M. Hill Shiloh Jones Ella Kathleen Moore Ryan P. Murphy Carter Harrison Swayer Grace Marie Wing

owen d. young Central Isaac Burditt Riley Fox Constantinetis Vera V. Korol riChfield SpringS Central Royston E. Clarke Ella Rose McLean Riley E. O’Connor Gabrielle Seamon Isabelle Seamon Max Winfield Spencer Sophia Andrea Spencer

otSego area oCCupational Center Savannah Brooke Algarin Zandra Mya Aliya Trinitie Iris Mae Barker Megan Fay Bolton Wyatt K. Butts Mason William Campbell Liam Casey Dejalei Champen Angelina Jaelynn Cruz Padraig Curran Sebastyan Janusz Dukaczewicz Brandon M. Eager Emma Rose Hughes Nolan Hughs Addy Mae Hynes Yasmin Tareq Issa Ibraheem Aslam Khan Bryan Mahone Madelynn Jean McCord Emma R. Murch Jacey Lynn O’Donnell Griffin Joseph Pizza Brayden Joseph Poliseno Christopher Rathbun Jr. Theo Ritter Payton Nicole Seamon Lexie Sherwood Joslyn Paige Sitts Alyssa Marie Stevens Jolene Strong Jonathan Torres Carter P. Wayman Desiree Korrine Wheeler Payton Jack Whiteman Aleksander Cooper Yastrzemski

SCheneVuS Central SChool Sophia Camilleri Annalee Rose Gallagher Jacqueline Marie Jaszcar Schuyler Ashlynne Maynard Connor Matthew Morell Alton Ramon Pleytez Uriah John Reynolds

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

Cemetery Association Advances Monument Restoration Effort By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST FLY CREEK he Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association is moving forward with a major restoration effort this season, continuing work that began after the cemetery was awarded a grant in 2025 funded through New York State’s Hazardous Monument Restoration Fund to repair aging or damaged monuments. The grant, funded through a statewide program that collects a $5.00 fee from every burial in New York, supports cemeteries in addressing monuments deemed potential safety liabilities. Under the program, cemeteries may request an inspection from a state representative, who evaluates monuments and identifies those requiring structural repair. Once approved,

the grant covers the cost of restoring those monuments. Fly Creek Valley Cemetery participated last year, but according to association members, a newly seated and expanded board has accelerated the progress, pushing multiple long‑delayed projects forward at once. This year’s work is expected to be substantial. Cemetery officials have identified approximately 37 monuments that qualify for restoration under the grant. Although the cemetery was awarded funding in 2025, the actual restoration work is now beginning due to the time‑intensive nature of the process and the transition to new leadership. As part of the grant requirements, cemeteries must solicit two to three bids from monument companies. The cemetery association has already issued bid

requests to three firms. Each company must visit the cemetery, assess the condition of the monuments, and provide a detailed estimate of the work required. Because each monument must be evaluated individually, the process is lengthy, and the FCVCA does not yet have a confirmed total cost for the project. Association volunteer Tabetha Rathbone noted that contractors are “still tallying” estimates, and under state rules, “the lowest reasonable bid will be selected” once all proposals are submitted. Only then can the cemetery finalize its restoration plan and schedule the work. Despite being awarded the grant last year, the cemetery has not yet received the funds, which is typical for this program. Funding is released only after bids are submitted, reviewed,

and approved by the state The new FCVCA board has been working “long and hard” to ensure the cemetery is in the best possible condition as the restoration phase begins. FCVCA officials emphasized that the current momentum reflects the dedication of its recently expanded leadership. Several projects that had been stalled or slow‑moving in previous years are now underway simultaneously. The 2025–2026 Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association board— which is committed to improving the cemetery’s condition, preserving its historic character, and ensuring safety for visitors—consists of President John Schallert, Secretary Sherlee Rathbone, Treasurer George Crippen, Sexton Donna Sims, and board members George Chandler, Shannon Davis, David

Hribar, and Brenda Lavieri. Volunteer involvement remains essential, and several board seats are currently open for residents interested in contributing to ongoing maintenance and restoration efforts. Tabetha Rathbone noted that the cemetery is “always looking for more people who want to help out,” especially as multiple projects move forward at once. In addition to the Hazardous Monument Restoration Fund grant, FCVCA had also secured a private grant from the Community Foundation of Otsego County, which funded recent repairs to the cemetery gate—another project

completed under the new board’s leadership. As restoration work at the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery moves into its next phase, association members expect to have more detailed information once all bids are submitted and reviewed. The timeline for repairs will depend on contractor availability, weather conditions, and the final scope of work approved by the state. For now, FCVCA members are focused on completing the bid process, coordinating with contractors, and preparing for what will likely be one of the most significant restoration efforts the cemetery has undertaken in years.

30 3 0 CELEBR ATING

YEARS

PROFESSIONAL T HEATER OF THE GREAT WESTERN CATSKILLS

TFC-DOS Makes Connections at Pridefest ONEONTA obacco Free Communities Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie participated in the 9th Annual Oneonta Pridefest, held Saturday, June 6 at Neahwa Park. Hosted by the Otsego Pride Alliance, the family-friendly event celebrated community, inclusion, and advocacy under this year’s theme of “Power, Resistance, Intersectionality, Dignity, Existence.” The annual Pridefest brought together residents and visitors for a full day of activities, including a parade, live music, drag performances, a transgender remembrance ceremony, educational opportunities, vendors, and food trucks. According to a press release, representing TFC-DOS were Nicole Schuck, community engagement coordinator, and Jordon Fernandez, youth engagement coordinator, who engaged attendees in conversations about the harmful impacts of tobacco industry marketing—particularly its long history of targeting LGBTQIA+ communities. “We were honored to be a part of Pridefest,”

said TFC-DOS Director Kristen Richardson. “This event gave us a great chance to connect with people in a welcoming, supportive

space. Events like this really matter—they help us share important information, build relationships, and make sure everyone knows about

the resources available to support their health and well-being.” Richardson is a registered nurse and a certified Continued on page 7

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL eDITORIAL

THE PARTIAL OBSERVER

The Platner Parable

inally, perhaps we can all now agree that Graham Platner is, indeed, a bad man. If not, certainly we can agree he is a terrible candidate. For those unfamiliar with his story, Platner is currently a Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Maine. Last month, he defeated sitting Governor Janet Mills and David Costello, a former state official, in the primary race with an astonishing 72 percent of the vote. Astonishing because Platner’s campaign has been beset with problems mostly of his own making: a tattoo remarkably similar to the Nazi Death’s Head symbol, offensive social media posts taking aim at Black and LGBTQ+ folks, sexually-explicit posts to women other than his wife, accusations of “unsettling” and “toxic” behavior toward women. And now a fresh scandal, as an ex-girlfriend has alleged that Platner forced her to have sex with him during an uninvited visit to her home in 2021. Some readers will ask, what does this have to do with us here in Otsego County? Well, this is a cautionary tale for both the left and the right. According to the National Constitution Center, the primary responsibility of our elected officials is to “uphold and defend the U.S. Constitution, legislate on behalf of the public and govern in the best interest of their constituents.” Yet, our elected representatives—as they continue to move further and further apart in their ideology—seem to be willing to put these responsibilities aside in order to maintain or regain power. Platner, considered to be an anti-establish candidate, received the backing of many high-profile Democrats despite his unsavory past largely because they saw him as a vehicle by which to gain another seat in the Senate. Republicans, too, have backed distasteful candidates in their pursuit of control. According to The Council of State Governments, “a common thread shared by all constituents”--colleagues, employees, neighbors, peers and even family—“is their reliance on elected public officials to serve as their advocate, voicing concerns and interests to the government on their behalf.” Here’s what both parties seem to have forgotten. Their responsibility is to ALL constituents. Not just the ones who voted them into office, but also the ones who didn’t. And the responsibility of our sitting elected officials—whether local, state or national—is to choose and endorse candidates who will best serve their entire voting public, not just a subsection of the body politic. Since adoption of the modern two-party system in 1856, the party power of the U.S. presidency has changed 10 times from the incumbent to the opposition, while control of the U.S. House of Representatives has changed majorities 19 times. This would indicate that no one party will ever simply remain in power, as it should be. It would also indicate that whether Republican or Democrat, it is incumbent upon our elected officials to consider the needs and will of all the people they are chosen to represent. That is, after all, their mandate. Neither the far left nor the far right can properly serve the people of their party, let alone the rest of their constituents, if our leaders continue to seek power and self-aggrandizement over true public service. Most of us, if we are being honest with ourselves, fall somewhere in the middle anyway. As of this writing, Platner has not yet dropped out of the Senate race, but it seems likely that he will. He has until July 13 to do so in order for Maine Democrats to be able to replace him by July 27. In the meantime, endorsements he never should have received in the first place are dropping like flies. If our leaders don’t course correct soon—move back toward the middle, learn to compromise, and endorse the best candidates for US versus the candidates that most benefit THEM—we fear we are headed toward a second Civil War. Graham Platner is simply the latest warning shot.

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

Jill Holbrook

Agree to Disagree

aldo Johnston’s submission, “A House Divided Cannot Stand,” (July 2, 2026) describes his concern that this country is deeply divided. I agree with him on that and, as well, that open, honest, and measured conversations can help. I suspect we would also agree that verifiable facts and respect for the rule of law would also be part of those honest conversations. After all, in court, we are under oath to speak the truth. I disagree with Mr. Trump’s policies for many reasons, but Waldo Johnston’s opinion piece coinciding with the 250th celebration of the Declaration of Independence has given me new clarity. A small group of men adopted the Declaration to explain to the rest of the world why they and people in the 13 colonies they represented were declaring independence. Most of us are probably familiar with the document’s concept of inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, but the Declaration of Independence goes on to describe 28 offenses that prevented the colonists from practicing those inalienable rights. A startling number of the charges bring to mind policies that Mr. Trump has enacted or tried to enact. Not all of the colonists’ grievances against the King of England are relevant to Mr. Trump’s policies, but below are enough to make me very concerned about the state of this country. • He has refused his assent to laws the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. Fox News June 24, 2026—President Donald Trump announced a last-minute cancellation of the signing of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-declares-national-emergency-demandshousing-overhaul-bill-scrapped-save-act-push • He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing, with manly firmness, his invasions on the rights of the people. CBS News January 22, 2025—“Trump Warns He’ll Adjourn Congress to Make Recess Appointments” https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-recess-appointments-adjourningcongress/ • He has refused for a long time to cause others to be elected. Reuters January 15, 2026—“When you think of it, we shouldn’t even have an election.” https://www.reuters.com/world/us/five-takeaways-reuters-interview-presidenttrump-2026-01-15/ C-Span May 12, 2026—“President Trump Says He’s Willing to Send ICE, National Guard to the Polls in November” https://www.c-span.org/clip/white-house-event/president-trump-says-heswilling-to-send-ice-national-guard-to-the-polls-in-november/5200208 • He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. New York Times April 13, 2026—“How Trump Purged Immigration Judges to Speed Up Deportations” https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/09/us/politics/trump-miller-immigrationjudges-purge.html • He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies, without the consent of our legislatures. CNN January 18, 2026—Minneapolis Mayor Frey: “I never thought in a million years that we would be invaded by our own federal government.” https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/18/politics/video/minneapolis-mayor-jacob-freytroops-donald-trump-ice-raids • He has affected to render the military independent of and superior to the civil power. NBC May 1, 2026—“Trump Says He Doesn’t Need Congressional Authorization for Iran Operations, Citing Ceasefire” https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/trump-congressional-authorization-iran-military-operation-war-powers-rcna343094 • For imposing taxes on us without our consent: Continued on page 11

Letters to the editor … In their opinION

Our Rights Must Be Protected The Supreme Court’s ruling on Trump v. Barbara is a victory for the preservation of checks and balances. By striking down Executive Order 14160, the court rightly affirmed the 14th Amendment as a bedrock of individual liberty, not a playground for presidential fiat. Trump’s attempt to undermine the Birthright Clause wasn’t just a policy dispute; it was a brazen assault on the constitutional protections that define American citizenship. The 14th Amendment was forged to secure the unalienable rights of individuals against state intrusion—due process, equal protection, and basic immunity from arbitrary power. These are not government-granted privileges; they are fundamental rights inherent to every person. When the executive branch treats the Constitution like toy blocks—pulling out foundational pillars to suit a narrow, personal agenda—the entire structure of limited government is at risk of collapse. This ruling serves as a vital check on

authority, reminding us that no executive holds the power to dismantle the protections that secure our freedom. Protecting these rights is the only way to preserve a society where the individual, not the state, remains the primary actor. M. Stanley Bugge Otego

Our Diversity Is Our Strength In his opinion piece last week, Mr. Johnston relied on the familiar quotation that “a house divided cannot stand,” lamenting the diversity and lack of unanimity on many issues he sees in our country. But this metaphor goes too far; it should not be applied to undermine the role of dissent in a democracy. Our country is less like a house and more like a village, whose residents have different religions, opinions, sexual orientations, and political goals. Acceptance of diversity, not crushing it, is crucial to life in such a village. Tolerance and respect for different cultures and beliefs is precisely what makes America unique and strong. According to Mr. Johnston,

visitors to the World Cup were surprised that the Americans they met were friendly, welcoming and generous. This may say more about our current president than it does about ordinary Americans. Perhaps it is President Trump who has projected an image of America that is false. Too often he has chosen to criticize Americans for their political and personal choices instead of seeing all Americans, even Democrats, as equal members of a Great Society that celebrates freedom in religion, art, sexuality, reproductive choice, and politics. America is great and welcoming because of its diversity, not despite it. Indeed, Mr. Trump may be the victim of his own personal “derangement syndrome.” He appears to believe only in himself. Vanity, bullying and lying are examples of behavior which would not have been tolerated by Lincoln. In meeting ordinary Americans, our World Cup visitors may have met Americans who are not motivated entirely by money and dominance, and who welcome strangers with dignity and respect. This Continued on page 9

THURSDAY, jULY 9, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5 THE PARTIAL OBSERVER

MARY SOMMER TINGLEY

Common Council Should Emulate Ithaca

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

135 YEARS AGO

The Fourth of July in Cooperstown was a very quiet day, pleasantly broken at noon by the out-door concert given by the Military Band. Even the usual ardor of the small boys was dampened by the frequent and copious showers of rain which fell. At noon, the band escorted Nelson Hose Co. to the steamer Gem, on their way to the entertainment they provided at ThreeMile Point. Considering the unfavorable weather, the attendance there was quite large, and the boys had a merry and pleasant time. At 2 o’clock, the time fixed for the baseball game between the Athletics and a Richfield Springs nine, light showers of rain were occasionally falling, but as a large number of people had gathered on the Athletic grounds to witness the game, it was determined to have it proceed, and was gotten through with in better form than anticipated. The Athletics won by a score of 10-2. (Ed. Note: The site of the ballgame is now the parking lot west of the Bassett Health Center Clinic building, the field extending across Atwell and Fair Streets) July 9, 1891

85 YEARS AGO

Total War Effort—Americans are or should be the best informed people on the face of the earth. One thing we lack is an understanding of the meaning of “total war effort.” Whether we are neutrals, non-belligerents, or what not, according to international law, we are, in fact “in” this war. Through our President we have taken a stand against Hitler. What is “total war effort” as of A.D. 1941? Here is a suggested definition: “A total war effort is the complete utilization of every natural, mechanical, and human resource at a nation’s disposal by a nation’s government and people to bring about a decisive victory for that nation’s armed forces and a defeat for her enemies.” July 9, 1941

60 YEARS AGO

Rotary Officers Installed—Dr. Edward F. Whalen took office Tuesday of last week as president of the Cooperstown Rotary Club. Other officers of the club include Dr. Theodore Peters, Jr., vice-president, George G. Tillapaugh, secretary, M.C. Bundy, treasurer, and C.H. Batham, sergeant-at-arms. July 6, 1966

35 YEARS AGO

July 10, 1991

20 YEARS AGO

On Friday, June 30, Otsego Lake was 42 inches above its optimal level, topping a 35-inch record set in April 2001. The record rainfalls of Tuesday and Wednesday, June 27—28 caused flooding throughout the region and roiled the waters of Otsego Lake causing septic tanks to overflow into the debris-littered waters. July 7, 2006

Solution: “Is That Yet Another Chicken Joke?” (July 2)

recently left a voicemail for Mr. Rory M. Christian, who serves as the chair of the New York State Public Service Commission and as the chief financial officer of the Department of Public Service, reporting to our governor. These entities are responsible for oversight of New York State utilities, including NYSEG, under the broad mandate to ensure access to safe, reliable utility service at just and reasonable rates. I wanted to share with him the pain I, and so many NYSEG customers, experience when our monthly bills fluctuate wildly. Nothing until now has made me want to change my party affiliation to Independent than dealing with increasing utility costs. The last straw came this week when I made my monthly call to the poor souls at NYSEG, who tried to explain the unexplainable. This involves a little-known line item on page four of six called “Detailed Adjustments Weather Norm Chrg Sales Dr Adj.,” aka “WNA.” The state allows for utilities to use this mechanism to keep rates stable and predictable. Fine, but NYSEG had a computer software update as first revealed by News10 NBC in April. This caused a “glitch” that inaccurately recorded and processed much colder than actual average temperatures, which artificially inflated customer gas usage. The result of NYSEG’s error? My $13.93 charge. Who approved that? PSC. Multiply that by the affected customers? You do the math. Add to this the recent “Public Notice” NYSEG/ PSC published in “The Daily Star” to notify/ justify temporary rate increases plus a $52.6

and $1.2 million increase in base electricity and natural gas revenues, respectively. The following spin attempts to justify this because PSC didn’t act within the required 11 months they should have (paraphrased). “The New York State Public Service Commission today set temporary rates for New York State Electric & Gas Corporation (NYSEG) and (RG&E) that are substantially less than what the companies have requested. By setting temporary rates, the Commission is protecting customers from rate hikes that would be compounded by a delay, allowing the utility to continue making necessary investments for safety and reliability, and providing all parties involved with additional time to review a complex record and establish permanent rates.” This begs the question, who is protecting customers from the PSC? And the bone PSC threw to customers to soften that blow? Their new order to “Implement a Company-Administered Energy Efficiency/ Building Electrification (EE/BE) programs surcharge separate from the State’s System Benefits Charge (“SBC”). Gee, thanks! Translation for those of us who misplaced our New York State acronym decoder rings: We will now see a separate SBC line in the “Electricity Delivery Charges” section of our already complicated statement, to distinguish between what goes to the state to directly fund mandated energy programs (e.g., funds for Energy Star gas furnaces and other initiatives driven by state climate acts) versus NYSEG’s administrative and operational costs we pay them to manage Continued on page 9

By MERL REAGLE

Initial Reaction… A starter puzzle—in more ways than one

ACROSS 1 A god of love 5 Dances a sexy dance 11 767, to an air traffic controller 15 Design all over again 19 City NW of Los Angeles, ___ Valley 20 Individually 21 Glinda in The Wiz 22 Lakmé’s “Bell Song,” for example 23 PITH 26 Actor Bogarde 27 OHMS 29 Darjeeling, for one 30 Former St. Louis player 31 Elect 32 The unthinkable 78 Across 33 Patron saint of France 34 “A pox on you!” 35 Nuclear instrument ending 37 Brandenburg Concertos composer: inits. 40 Record holders? 43 Code word? 44 Godliness 45 Palindromic cry 46 Another god of love 47 Color ’twixt red and green 50 Montagnes de la France 51 Not now 52 Greek T’s 53 Milk at a French café 54 Make ___ (err) 55 N ational Velvet author Bagnold 56 ROOT 59 Disciplines, as a brat 61 BOATS 63 ___ a doornail 65 HAND 66 It might be hard to resist 67 Boarded 68 Liberal arts deg. 69 Chronicler of the Corleones 72 Comedy units 73 Copier need 74 Salami salesrooms 75 N.Y. securities market 76 Manipulate 77 Cobbler’s stock 78 Ultimate confrontation 79 Madrid museum 80 See 20 Across 81 Delilah portrayer opposite Victor, 1949 82 Pen point

83 Agent 86 17 Desperate 63 Excavated 86 Bread spread 18 S chwarzenegger’s body64 Wipe out building nickname, “the 87 Part of a j 67 Encouraging word Austrian ___” 88 To drink, as vin 70 Letter from London? 24 A uthor Gardner and film 89 Inc. or GQ, e.g. 71 Tic-tac-toe line director Kenton 92 DADS 73 “Hizzoner” 25 Media blitz of a sort 98 Pounds, in old London 74 Itty-bitty bit of goo 28 Like Tarzan’s transit system 99 YAMS 77 Carpet type 33 Talks out of 100 Wrist-to-elbow part 78 E rma Bombeck’s long-run34 Christmas tree ning column, “At ___” 101 Just 35 Longtime House speaker 79 Word on a parkinggarage 102 “___ meet you” 36 Shorten, as a sail ticket machine 103 Major times 37 N ick Adams’s character in 82 Black, to Bardot 104 Types the TV oldie The Rebel 83 Drunks 105 Rogers and Clark 38 Valentino role 84 Once around the clock 106 Cutting and forming kit 39 Stock alternatives 85 “___ thou our God?” (II 107 Test for a mouse 40 Worked (up) Chron. 20:7) DOWN 41 George’s lyricist 86 Backstabber 1 In ___ (stuck) 42 Home run 87 Times of reckoning 2 Pooh’s creator 43 Sets off 88 Young spy chronicled in The 3 City near Council Bluffs 44 Break new ground? Falcon and the Snowman, 4 Krispy grain Christopher ___ 47 Fugard’s A Lesson from ___ 5 New Zealand’s discoverer 89 Dancer Shearer 48 Actress Adams of 6 House of wax? 90 Ball’s guy Bond movie fame 7 Black-clad Japanese warriors 49 Brand of candy 91 Flying wedge members 8 “___ while they’re hot!” 92 Ennui-inducing 50 Hangout for Socrates 9 New York Times boss, once 93 Where to find a soul on ice 51 Rip to shreds 10 Make sure 54 When some nightly news 94 Words to Nanette 11 Sanctified, in the Bible comes on 95 Appropriately 12 Odist’s grasslands 57 Secret org. 96 B radbury’s Fahrenheit number times II 13 Concerning 58 Lean on or toward 14 2018 Super Bowl losers 59 “Ignore correction” marks 97 “Thar hills” preceder 98 On the ___ vive 15 Spokes 60 “Bean limousine” 16 Brother of Julia Roberts 62 Certain act div.

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

NEWS BRIEFS

Ecstatic Dance Set for July 18 ONEONTA—Ecstatic Dance Oneonta will return to the Unitarian Universalist Society, 12 Ford Avenue, from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, July 18. Led by Isha Now, the welcoming movement experience is intended to foster self-expression, joy and community. Advance registration is recommended; visit givebutter.com/ecstatic-dance-oneonta-danceinto-new-beginnings-lyn3ko for more information.

Grant Competition Expands ALBANY—SUNY Chancellor John B. King announced the expansion of the Building Bridges Student Grant Competition, a program that supports student groups that promote civic engagement and community connections on campus. Following high demand for the five $5,000.00 grants in the first round in January, 25 additional awards will be made. The next application cycle will be open from September 17 to November 6. Visit suny.edu/sunynews/press-releases/7-26/7-6-26/building-bridges. html for more information.

Mine Kill Summerfest Returns NORTH BLENHEIM—Mine Kill State Park will hold its annual Summerfest with special programming to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary on Saturday, July 18. The Mine Kill Swim Meet for athletes ages 6-18 will begin at 9 a.m., with registration opening at 8 a.m. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the pool complex will host a wide variety of craft activities, games, exhibitions and vendors. All activities are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Mine Kill State Park Facebook page.

Concert Series Announced RICHFIELD SPRINGS—Music at Meadow Links, the free, family-friendly weekly concert series at 502 County Highway 27, will return at 7 p.m. on Mondays through August 24. Featuring a wide range of musical genres, the concerts run rain or shine. This year’s offerings include Contrasonics on July 13, Storied Winds on July 20 and the Southern Tier Brass Quintet on July 27. To view a full schedule, visit concertedworks. org/jul-aug-music-at-meadow-links/.

Carnival of Sales Is Saturday UNADILLA—The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce’s annual Carnival of Sales will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Main Street in Unadilla on Saturday, July 11. In addition to yard sales and a chicken dinner, there will be food and craft vendors, children’s activities, and live entertainment, Visit GoUnadillaNY.wordpress.com for more information.

‘12 Angry Electrics’ Slated MARGARETVILLE—The Open Eye Theater, 960 Main Street in Margaretville, will present a one-night-only performance of seven-time Emmy-winning writer, director and actor William Electric Black’s “12 Angry Electrics” solo show at 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 1. Inspired by the classic courtroom drama “12 Angry Men,” the intense, intimate show stars Black as all 12 jurors. There is a suggested donation of $20.00 per adult

and $10.00 per student. Seating is limited. For more information or to make a reservation, visit theopeneyetheater.org.

Genealogy Program Planned SPRINGFIELD—Springfield Historical Society and the Daughters of the American Revolution will host a free presentation on genealogical research and Revolutionary War lineage at the Springfield Community Center from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, July 18. Preregistration is required; contact Medic4114@ gmail.com for more information.

CCESOC To Host July Events

Register Now for Kids’ Classes COOPERSTOWN—The Smithy Clay Studio will host four classes for children ages 6-17 with paywhat-you-will pricing this summer. Two sessions of the ages 6-14 Clay for Kids class will run from 2-4 p.m. on Thursdays, from July 16 to August 6 and from August 13 to September 3, respectively. There will be a pottery wheel camp for ages 7-11 from 10 a.m. to noon, July 20-23, and another for ages 12-17 from 9 a.m. to noon, July 28-30. The Smithy also offers a wide range of adult classes and open studio sessions. For more information or to register, visit smithy-clay-studio.jumbula.com/.

OTSEGO COUNTY—Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties will host an Otsego County Fair Entry Workshop at the fairgrounds in Morris at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11. Contact tla47@cornell.edu to sign up. The GROW Garden, 123 Lake Street in Cooperstown, will host a family gardening workshop from 4:30-6:30 on Wednesday, July 13 and an open house from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 23. The Mohawk Valley Clean Energy Stakeholder Forum will be held at Herkimer College at 6 p.m. on the same day. To view a full schedule of events or to sign up, visit cceschoharie-otsego.org/events.

Summer Music Fest Continues

El Khat Performs, Leads Class

Fly-In Breakfast Is July 18th

EAST MEREDITH—Internationally acclaimed Yemeni experimental band El Khat will perform a free community concert at the West Kortright Center at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 17. There will be a recycled materials instrument-making workshop at 5 p.m.; space is limited and registration is required at info@westkc.org. Dinner from Good Cheap Foods will be available for purchase starting at 6 p.m. For more information, visit westkc.org.

Grand, Glorious Spots Available

COOPERSTOWN—Saxophonist Eddie Barbash and the Caroga Arts Ensemble’s KASA Quartet will perform the next Cooperstown Summer Music Festival concert at Fenimore Farm and Country Village at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21. The Sebastians will perform “Over the Alps,” a concert that traces the spread of Italian music styles throughout Europe in the 17th century, at Christ Episcopal Church, 46 River Street, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit cooperstownmusicfest.org/new-events for a full schedule or to reserve seats. MIDDLEFIELD—The Middlefield Volunteer Fire Department’s Fly-In Pancake Breakfast will return on Saturday, July 18 from 7:30-11:30 a.m. Held at the Cooperstown/Westville Airport on State Route 166, it offers all-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, sausage, beverages and real maple syrup. Admission is $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for children under 12.

Tuesday Markets Now Open

ONEONTA—Catskill Choral Society’s annual Grand and Glorious Fall Fair will return to Neahwa Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 13. Food, craft, activity, entertainment and exhibition vendors are still needed. To reserve a vendor space, visit catskillchoralsociety.org.

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market will be open from noon to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays through the end of September. Tuesday markets feature a different mix of vendors from the usual Saturday set, including a larger selection of lunch, snack and dessert options. For more information, visit cooperstownfarmersmarket.org.

Gas Prices Continue To Slide

LWVCA Plans Orientation

UTICA—The average price of gasoline in New York State fell six cents to $4.05 per gallon over the week ending Monday, July 6, AAA Northeast announced. Crude oil prices dipped to the $70dollar range by the end of the holiday-shortened trading week on increased optimism of a lasting peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Gasoline demand and domestic production were high due to the holiday weekend and summer traveling. Stockpiles of gas and oil remain near record lows as the U.S. exports more to parts of the world more directly impacted by the conflict; gasoline inventories are seven percent below the seasonal average and crude inventories fell by 9.3 million barrels over the week to their lowest level since May 1984. New York’s current price is 42 cents lower than a month ago and 86 cents higher than this week last year. To view the full report, visit gasprices.aaa.com.

COOPERSTOWN—League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area will host an orientation for new and prospective members from 5-6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21. It will be held at the Old Methodist Church, 3080 County Highway 11 in Hartwick. For more information, contact hudi. podolsky@gmail.com.

Auditions Are This Weekend MARGARETVILLE—The Open Eye Theater, 960 Main Street in Margaretville, will host in-person auditions for Summer Shortcuts XVI, six original 10-minute plays, from 2-5 p.m. on Thursday, July 9 and 6-8 p.m. on Sunday, July 12. Two teen roles and a number of positions for any age and gender are open, as are director, stage manager and production assistant roles. For more information, visit theopeneyetheater.org.

LOCALS: PEOPLE & BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS VENTULETH EARNS HONORS:

Hartwick College announced recently that Makenna Ventuleth ’27 of Worcester has been named Faculty Scholar in Biochemistry, one of the institution’s top academic honors. Faculty Scholars are rising seniors nominated by their departments for outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and character. Ventuleth received two additional awards during the April 29 Honors Convocation. She was selected for the Dr. Robert E. & Mrs. MaryAlice Mansbach Scholarship, established in honor of retired religion professor Dr. Robert E. Mansbach and awarded to a student who demonstrates exceptional growth in the spirit of liberal education. She also earned the Dr. Elizabeth V. Lamphere ’38, H’97 Scholarship, given to a junior chemistry major with at least a 3.5 GPA who is active in the Langmuir Chemical Society. Lamphere, a Hartwick alumna, was the retired chair of the Science Department at the Norwich City School System. STEVENS RECOGNIZED: Riley Stevens of Milford has been named to the University of Hartford’s Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students who achieve superior academic standing, generally requiring at least a 3.0 GPA with no grade below a C. The university also announced its President’s List, reserved for students earning a GPA of 3.75 or higher with grades of C or better. In total, 2,332 students were

named to the two academic honors lists for the semester. LANGUAGE AWARD: Meghan Harrington ’27 of Oneonta has been honored by Hartwick College with the Alfred F. Massari Memorial Language Award. The award, presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, is given to a first‑year student studying a foreign language. It was established by family and friends in memory of Al Massari, a former professor of French at Hartwick. OUTSTANDING

ONEONTAN:

Madison Griffith ’29 of Oneonta has been honored by Hartwick College with the Semenenko Clark Award for Outstanding First Year Art Major. The award, presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, was established by Christine Semenenko P’09 to support and recognize exceptional first‑year students in the Art Department. SCANLON SOARS: Josie Scanlon of Oneonta has been named to the McDaniel College Dean’s List with High Honors for the spring 2026 semester. High Honors are awarded to students earning a semester GPA between 3.70 and 3.89. McDaniel also recognizes students with Highest Honors for GPAs of 3.90 or higher, and Honors for GPAs between 3.50 and 3.69. CREATIVE FELLOW: Aidan Dugan ’27 of Oneonta has been recognized by Hartwick College as an Andrew B. Saxton Undergraduate Fellow in creative writing. The honor,

presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, is awarded by faculty to students who demonstrate outstanding achievement in their field. Saxton Fellows serve as student assistants within their major department and receive a tuition credit. POTSDAM DEAN’S LIST: SUNY Potsdam has named 682 students to its President’s List for the spring 2026 semester, recognizing academic excellence under President Dr. Suzanne Smith. To earn the distinction, students must complete at least 12 numerically graded credit hours with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Local students honored include Eleanor Van Spanje of Cherry Valley, majoring in anthropology, and Chloe Munro of Milford, majoring in English. DEGREES AWARDED: Nazareth University has announced that two local students earned bachelor’s degrees during its 99th Commencement ceremony on May 16, held at the university’s Golisano Training Center. Hannah Swayer of Morris graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and inclusive education. Leah Woertendyke of Oneonta graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Nazareth University enrolls nearly 2,100 undergraduates and 600 graduate students, offering a blend of liberal arts and professional programs. NURSING NOD: Samantha Osborne ’27 of Schenevus has been honored by Hartwick College with the Nursing Alumni Memorial Scholarship.

The award, presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, recognizes a nursing student for academic achievement, participation and potential within the profession. It is awarded by the Hartwick Alumni Association through its Nursing Committee and supports the recipient during their senior year. MORATTO LAUDED: Nathaniel Moratto ’27 of Oneonta has been recognized by Hartwick College as an Andrew B. Saxton Undergraduate Fellow in Computer Sciences. The honor, presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, is awarded by faculty to students who demonstrate outstanding achievement in their field. Saxton Fellows serve as student assistants within their major department and receive a tuition credit. Moratto also received the Departmental Award for Excellence in Computer and Information Science, which recognizes students who have done outstanding work in their discipline. POETRY PRIZE WINNER: Meer Singh ’28 of Oneonta has been named the winner of Hartwick College’s Anna Sonder Prize of the Academy of American Poets. The award, presented during the April 29 Honors Convocation, recognizes the best poem written by a Hartwick student. The prize was established in 1978 by the late Otto Sonder, professor emeritus of sociology, in memory of his mother, Anna, and is awarded annually under the auspices of the Academy of American Poets in New York City.

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

Gilbertsville Relives Signing of Declaration of Independence Ludington, age 16, whose experience was read by Lexie VanDusen. GILBERTSVILLE Known as “the female Paul Revere,” reenactment of the signing her ride was 40 miles long, or, as of the Declaration of recounted, “approximately three Independence took place times longer than Revere’s.” After in Gilbertsville’s Centennial Park learning that British troops were immediately following the village’s attacking the Continental supply annual July 4 parade, which depot in Danbury, Connecticut, featured approximately 45 entries. Ludington volunteered to alert The reenactment was produced her father’s militia, scattered by the Town of Butternuts 250th throughout Putnam County, New Committee. York. Riding through darkness Leading off the proceedings in a driving rain, she knocked on was Liam Herbert, who impersonshutters with a long stick, alerting ated John Adams, Massachusetts’ farmers to report to the Ludington delegate to the Second Continental farm by dawn. The nearly 400 Congress. It was Adams who militiamen who subsequently gathinsisted that Thomas Jefferson pen ered could not save Danbury, but the Declaration approximately one joined with other forces to harass year prior to its signing. the British retreat at the Battle of Ridgefield, thus contributing to a Herbert read from a letter written strategic American victory. by Adams to his wife, Abigail, in which he reaffirmed the rightness Valerie Elbrick read from a Photo by Jeri Wachter of declaring independence from Marcia Foote of the Tianderah Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution read an ac- letter written by Abigail Adams Britain, writing, “The hopes of count of Sarah Bradlee Fulton’s Revolutionary War experiences at a reenactment of the signing to her husband in March of 1776, reconciliation, which were fondly of the Declaration of Independence—part of Gilbertsville’s July 4 celebration. Pictured from left: in which she strongly advocated entertained by multitudes of honest Liam Herbert (John Adams), Foote, Aidan Woishnis (Thomas Jefferson/Lyman Hall) and Valerie for women’s rights, asserting, “I and well-meaning, though weak Haynes (Martha Washington). long to hear that you have declared and mistaken people, have been independency—and, by the way, Revolution represented Sarah Bradlee Fulton, leader gradually and at last totally extinguished.” in a new Code of Laws, I desire you to remember the of the Daughters of American Liberty, formed in Adams was prescient in his vision of future July 4 1765 to protest the Stamp Act. The term came to ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them celebrations, further musing to his wife, “I am apt to apply to all women who participated in revolutionary than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power believe that this day will be celebrated by succeeding activities. Bradlee was known as “The Mother of the into the hands of the husbands. Remember, all men generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought Boston Tea Party.” would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and to be commemorated as the Day of Deliverance by Besides carrying a message through enemy lines on attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought behalf of General George Washington, Fulton demon- to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shews strated incredible courage when the British, in violation bound by any laws in which we have no voice or [sic], games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illumi- of laws regarding confiscation of personal property, representation.” nations from one end of this continent to the other retrieved a supply of wood the British had taken The program concluded with a signing of the from this time forward and forever more.” from her family. As read by Foote, Fulton recounted, Declaration of Independence by those present. Among Prominently featured in the Gilbertsville program “Infuriated, I pursued the British soldiers until I caught them were four descendants of original signers. were women of the Revolution. up. I grabbed the oxen by the horns and turned them Carla Hall, her son Matthew Friedman and grandson Martha Washington, portrayed by Valerie Haynes, around, leading them away even as the British prepared Henry Lewis Friedman represented respectively the underscored the vital and largely overlooked support to shoot me. I simply told them to ‘shoot away,’ and eighth, ninth, and tenth generations of descendants roles women played: providing a strong presence at the British, astonished by my defiance, surrendered of Lewis R. Morris. Samuel Hager, descendant of military encampments, obtaining food and medical the wood to me without resistance.” signer William Williams, also offered up his “John supplies, cooking meals and even acting as surgeons Mercy Otis Warren, depicted by Carla Hall, cut Hancock.” In all, approximately 100 signatures were and nurses. The women also sewed and laundered the figure of a woman of considerable intellectual left on the Gilbertsville document, which will become both clothing and bedding. They organized collec- prowess who greatly influenced political thought of a part of the town’s historical collection. tions of funds and goods and often drew on their the era and contributed to the radicalization of public Gilbertsville Mayor Aidan Woishnis summed own resources to aid the war effort, with Martha opinion against British rule. She published a series up the day by stating, “Watching our neighbors fill Washington herself donating significant funds and of scathing political plays and poems which galva- these streets to honor our heritage and reaffirm one supplies from Mount Vernon. nized colonial resistance. Her home was a central of the greatest documents ever written, I saw what Transforming domestic duties into political acts was meeting place for revolutionaries. The protest meet- makes this community strong. The spirit of 1776 still a notable women’s contribution. They initiated boycotts ings she hosted helped lead to the establishment of belongs to the people who show up for each other.” of British goods, such as tea and cloth, making up for the Committees of Correspondence, a collection of Members of the town’s 250th Committee are: shortages of cloth by holding spinning bees. American political organizations that sought support Vikki Cates and Valerie Haynes, both of American Anne Sebeck was the reincarnation of Lucy Flucker OCTOBERfor 1 –American DECEMBER 31, 2020 independence. Legion Post 1339; Bruce Giuda, Town of Butternuts Knox, wife of Henry Knox—a leading officer in the After the war, Warren was a prominent voice against supervisor; Aidan Woishnis, Gilbertsville mayor; Continental Army. She was disowned by her Loyalist ratification of the U.S. Constitution due to its lack of Liam Herbert, local Revolutionary War researcher; family for marrying Knox as well as for her Patriot explicit protections for individual liberties. Her 1776 Sean Herbert and Lynne Talbot of the Village sentiments. Lucy accompanied Henry, living in military essay titled “Observations on the New Constitution” Improvement Society; AnneMarie Hill, local history camps and, like her good friend Martha Washington, argued strongly for the inclusion of such. Warren has and genealogy resources; Penny Klingman, Town of supporting the troops in various ways during the war. been credited with influencing the ultimate adoption Butternuts historian; Barbara Lilley of the Daughters Bill of Rights in the U.S. Constitution. of the American Revolution; and Anne Sebeck of the Marcia Foote of the Tianderah Chapter of the of the OCTOBER 1 – DECEMBER 31, 2020 The youngest woman represented was Sybil American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 1339. National Society Daughters of the American By TERESA WINCHESTER

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Registration, activation, acceptance, or use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Prepaid.AJ=K Card Agreement. Prepaid Cards will not have cash access and will Scholarship. wrenches, elec. Cords, sm. Tool boxes, 3 floor jacks, shop vacs, creepers, expire after 6 months from date of issuance - other terms, conditions, and fees may apply. c &9OF 9F< !9J<=F .AJ=K c .AJ= @9AFK barrels, old woven handled baskets, weedwackers, wheel wooden potato The award, presented April Honors , N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit If you receive a Goodyear Visa Prepaid Card, thenduring the following applies:the Visa Prepaid Card is issued29 by MetaBank c .0 /.0 .AJ=K c ,M::=J .J9;CK barrow, chains & chain binders, new gloves, jack knives, oils & fluids, air after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. MetaBank does not endorse or sponsor the Goodyear Credit Card offer. Convocation, Edith Lacey, founder Wolverine boots-Size 12, Snowmobile helmets, sm. Nuts & bolts hoses, Offers available memorializes only at participating U.S. Goodyear retailers and websites.M. Offers valid only for U.S. residents who are individual consumers with mailing addresses in the U.S. and.J9AD=J U.S. territories. Commercial fleets are not eligiblecfor ? these 9?K rebates. Not 9D= valid on previous withNew other Goodyear c -=EA .J9;LGJ purchases. Cannot be combined tire rebate offers. Rebate forms must be postmarked no later than 1/31/21. Base portion of rebate offered by Goodyear, and bonus portion of rebate offered by Citibank, N.A. Goodyear is not affiliated with Mastercard. Additional terms, conditions, and fees apply. See participating retailer for complete details and rebate forms. of new grinder bits, driver bits, counter sinks, Allen wrenches, boxes, buckets c GEHML=J 1@==D 9D9F;AF? (=L 1J9H of Hartwick’s program and its director for Goodyear Credit Cardnursing is issued by Citibank, N.A. bench grinder, Pressure washer, lift table, car ramps, taps & dies, Speed & Company and affiliates. DuPont and Kevlar are trademarks or registered trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company used under license by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber c .AJ= -=JNA;= ,=;9HHAF? c )AD @9F?=K Tire wrenches, punches & bits, Delta Miter saw, boxes of zip ties, jack stands, nearly 18†Terms years. It is given to a junior nursing student and conditions apply. See store associate for details, or for more information, visit https://www.goodyear.com/en-US/tire-warranty/30-day-pledge. c !GG<Q=9J (9LAGF9D ;;GMFLK c MKLGE 1@==DK gas cans, bottle jacks, Aluminum ext. ladder, scroll saw, bolt cutter, boxes & ©2020 The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. All rights reserved. who demonstrates academic achievement, promise as boxes of like new stuff-just like a hardware store; Craftsman folding chairs, -L9L= GFLJ9;L *JA;AF? c MLG ;;=KKGJA=K *Get up to $75 back by online or mail-in rebate on a qualifying purchase of a set of 4 select Goodyear tires with any form of payment method; plus get an added rebate of up to $75 more when the purchase is made on the Goodyear Credit Card. Subject to credit approval. Get a $75 Prepaid Card with purchase or $150 Prepaid barrel stand, Craftsman radial arm saw, pull-behind Broadcast spreader, tarps,, WinterCommand , Assurance ComforTred and Touring, Assurance MaxLife , Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with,G9< Kevlar , Wrangler DuraTrac , Wrangler Fortitude HT (excludingcC-Type), Wrangler *A;CMH TrailRunner AT 9HK , Eagle Exhilarate , WinterCommand with purchase onstrong the Goodyear Credit Card of: Assurance WeatherReady c )>> .@= 9;C@G= =FLMJQ a futureLTCardnurse, personal deportment, other or $50 Prepaid Cardv-belts, with and WinterCommand Ultra. Get a $50 Prepaid Card with purchase or $100 Prepaid Card with purchase on the Goodyear Credit Card of: Assurance All-Season, Eagle Sport All-Season Family (including ROF & SCT), Winter Maxx 2 and Winter Maxx SJ8. Get a $25 Prepaid Card with purchase truck tires, rope, lawn & garden tools, tire rims, spot lights, chains, tire &G9<=J .AJ=K c #FL=JKL9L= 9LL=JA=K HT, Kelly Edge AT , Kelly Edge MT , Kelly Safari TSR, Kelly Edge HP , Kelly Edge All-Season , Kelly Edge All-Season Performance and Kelly Winter Access . purchase on the Goodyear Credit Card of: Kelly Edge outstanding characteristics. watering cans, battery charger, jumper cables, heavy copper cables, plastic If you receive a Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard , then the following applies: Rebates paid in the form of a Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard . This Prepaid Card is issued by Sunrise Banks N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles lawn chairs & much more! Terms on Personal Property: Full payment due design is also a trademark ofreceived Mastercard International the Incorporated. This card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted. Registration, activation, acceptance, or use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Prepaid Card Agreement. Prepaid Cards will not have cash access and will Schiller Gladys Brooks Nursing day of auction by Cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover or Debit Cards. Business expire after 6 months from date of issuance - other terms, conditions, and fees may apply. w/Bank unused funds will forfeit letter of guarantee. 15% Buyer’s premium. NYS Sales Tax. If you receive a Goodyear Visa Prepaid Card, then theto following applies: Visa Prepaid Card is issued by MetaBank , N.A., Member Scholarship, awarded students enrolled inFDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months;checks after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. MetaBank does not endorse or sponsor the Goodyear Credit Card offer. All items sold in “AS IS” condition. Subject to errors and omissions. Bring Hartwick’s Three‑Year Bachelor’s Program Offers available only at participating U.S. Goodyear retailers and websites. OffersDegree valid only for U.S. residents who are individual consumers with mailing addresses in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Commercial fleets are not eligible for these rebates. Not valid on previous purchases. Cannot be combined with other Goodyear Driver’s license required for bidding number. All statements own your ON THE retailer for complete details and rebatelunch. 4(%4)2%3(/0 "): tire rebate offers. Rebate forms must be postmarked no later than 1/31/21. Base portion of rebate offered by Goodyear, and bonus portion of rebate offered by Citibank, N.A. Goodyear is not affiliated with Mastercard. Additional terms, conditions, and fees apply. See participating Financing auction take precedence over printed material.Auction held unmade day offorms. Goodyear Credit Card is issued by Citibank, N.A. or the 18‑month Accelerated Program. Recipients are FARM TIRE der tent, dress for weather. Auction: #8688/26. Available Company and affiliates. OPEN MON. - SAT. 8-6 DuPont and Kevlar are trademarks or registered trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company used under license by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber

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selected†Termsbased onSeeeducational achievement, leaderand conditions apply. store associate for details, or for more information, visit https://www.goodyear.com/en-US/tire-warranty/30-day-pledge. ©2020 The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. All rights reserved. ship, and academic ability. ™

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THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Rabbit

Continued from page 1 “We realized there wasn’t a place in the middle of town where people could quickly grab milk, eggs or other essentials,” Erika said. “That was really the inspiration.” Rather than competing with larger grocery stores, The Rabbit Hole focuses on providing convenience for residents and visitors who need everyday items without making a lengthy trip. From the beginning, the Browns wanted customers to help shape the store. Shortly after opening, they introduced an item request book, where shoppers can write down products they wish were available. The family then orders many of those requested items, allowing the inven-

tory to evolve with the community’s needs. That customer-first philosophy has helped The Rabbit Hole build a loyal following. Affordable prices, freshly-squeezed lemonade and one of the shop’s earliest hot menu items, grilled cheese sandwiches, quickly attracted repeat customers. Since then, the menu has continued to grow, from breakfast foods to quick dinners. One of the newest additions is a frozen beverage machine that features a different flavor each day. The changing selection has become one of the store’s most talked about attractions during the warmer months. The frozen drinks have even led to a symbiotic partnership with nearby Rudy’s Liquor Store. Because The Rabbit Hole chooses not to sell alcohol and Rudy’s cannot sell

mixed beverages with chasers, customers often visit both businesses to pick up the ingredients necessary to create their own frozen cocktails. “It’s worked out well for both of us,” Erika said. Flexibility is another hallmark of the business. While The Rabbit Hole opens every morning at 6 a.m., closing time depends entirely on the activity downtown. “Our policy is, if the lights are on and people are on the street, we’re open,” Erika said. Some evenings the doors close around 9 p.m., while busy summer weekends have kept the family serving customers until midnight. As the seasons change, so does the business. During the fall and winter months, The Rabbit Hole transforms into more of a neigh-

borhood café, serving authentic Turkish coffee alongside traditional Turkish delight in honor of Erika’s mother, who is Turkish. Erika said authenticity is important to her family. In Turkish culture, coffee is meant to be enjoyed slowly while sitting and socializing, rather than taken to go. “My mother is very passionate about keeping that tradition alive,” Erika said. The Browns also emphasize supporting other local businesses. The Rabbit Hole stocks products from nearby farms and small businesses whenever possible, giving customers access to locally made, highquality products while helping strengthen the regional economy. Although tourism plays an important role in Cooperstown, Erika said the store’s mission

has remained the same since day one. “It’s for the locals,” she said. That commitment has helped The Rabbit Hole stand out as one of the few businesses on Main Street that remains open throughout the year, serving residents long after the tourist crowds leave. Like any new business, The Rabbit Hole continues to adapt. Erika said the biggest challenge has been learning what products resonate with customers and which ideas need adjusting.

Still, the family remains optimistic. With a willingness to listen to customers, experiment with new offerings and maintain a welcoming environment, the Browns hope The Rabbit Hole will continue growing into one of Main Street’s cornerstone businesses. More than just a neighborhood market, it has already become a gathering place where convenience, community and family come together. One customer, one conversation and one requested grocery item at a time.

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OBITUARIES

Photo provided

INA F. PHILLIPS

Ina F. Phillips 1932-2026

H A RT W I C K — I n a Louise Foote Phillips, a respected, well-known and longtime resident of Hartwick, peacefully entered into eternal life Wednesday night, July 1, 2026, at her home on Main Street in Hartwick surrounded by her family. She was 93. Born August 7, 1932 at the family home in Otego, Ina was the fourth daughter of Stuart A. and Ena (Dana) Foote. Raised in Otego, she graduated from Otego Central School and then attended and graduated from Albany Business College. While in Albany, she worked for Blue Cross. Upon returning to Otego, she worked for Scintilla in Sidney. On October 4, 1952, Ina married Donald Clinton Phillips and they made their home and raised their family in Hartwick. For a brief time, Ina was employed at Cook’s Auto & Supply Co. on

Main Street and Burns Auto in Cooperstown. She then went on to work as a legal secretary for 39 years at the law firm of Van Horne & Feury in Cooperstown. She retired from Gozigian, Washburn & Clinton in 1997 to enjoy many years of travel and family. Ina was a former member of the First Baptist Church of Hartwick, where she was Deaconess for several years and where she loved working at harvest dinners and pancake day. She was also a member of the Otsego Legal Secretaries Club, the Hartwick Fire Department Co. No. 1 Auxiliary, the Hartwick Senior Luncheon Group for many years, and was currently attending the Hartwick Christian Church. Hartwick Cemetery was a very important part of Ina’s life, and she served as a trustee and secretary/treasurer for many years and superintendent for three years of the Hartwick Cemetery Association Inc. She truly enjoyed tending to the cemetery and getting to know the various families she helped throughout the years. Ina is survived by her daughter, Donna Hotaling; grandson David S. Sellick and wife Katie; great grandchildren David A. and McKenna L. Sellick; sisters Susena Hulbert and husband Randy and Sara Jane Yager and

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husband Rick; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Don, who died September 15, 2023; daughter Marsha Jean Phillips, who died November 6, 2008; son-in-law Duane C. Hotaling, who died January 9, 2012; sisters Evelyn McLaughlin, Helen Dropp, Carolyn Manley, Phyllis Mattison, and Coralie Mattice; her parents; and many cousins, friends, and nieces and nephews. The Phillips porch was the place to be if one needed help, a good talk or just a great piece of pie. Porch now closed. Family and friends may call and pay their respects beginning at 2 p.m. Sunday afternoon, July 12, 2026, at the Hartwick Christian Church, 3083 County Highway 11, Hartwick. A funeral service will be offered at 3 p.m. in the church with the Rev. James Crouthamel officiating. Immediately following the service at church, everyone is welcome to regather across the street at the Hartwick Fire Department Co. No. 1 fire hall for a reception. The service of committal and burial will be private at a later date in Hartwick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Ina’s family would appreciate donations in her memory be made to Hartwick Cemetery Association, PO Box 177, Hartwick, NY 13348, and the Hartwick Emergency Squad, PO Box 208, Hartwick, NY 13348. Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. So loved, so missed, so very dear.

Photo provided

DENNIS R. FOWLER

Dennis Roger Fowler 1941-2026

OXFORD—Dennis Roger Fowler, an Otego resident for more than 50 years, passed away at the New York State Veterans Home at Oxford on May 28, 2026 after a short illness. He was 84 years old. Born in Los Angeles, California, Dennis’ family moved to Larchmont, New York when he was 11. He graduated from Mamaroneck High School in 1959. During his high-school years he was a competitive swimmer, breaking several records for his butterfly stroke. He went on to Princeton University, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1963. He was a member of Princeton’s freshman swimming and diving team. He continued swimming throughout his life and could still do an exceptionally good butterfly stroke into his early 80s. Dennis served in the Army as a clerk during the Vietnam conflict with an honorable discharge in 1966. No doubt his keen intellect and upbeat personality brought much to a challenging job. After his discharge, Dennis moved to New York City and worked as a copy writer and editor for CBS and NBC. While in New York, he met the smart and engaging Margaret “Peggy” Kahoe. They married in 1969. In 1970, the young couple decided to leave the city and move to the country. They found an old farm in Otego and fell in love with the land and its beauty. After their

move, their daughter Celeste was born in 1971. Celeste, a brilliant child, became an accomplished and exceptional young woman who excelled in almost anything she put her mind to. She became a focal point for the couple and a source of great love and pride. She, too, graduated from Princeton and was in the MIT/WHOI Joint Graduate Program as an MIT Presidential Fellow when she passed away from metastasized melanoma in 2004. Many people will remember Dennis as a writer. He published approximately 50 books of erotica under various pen names and later wrote articles and books about computers, computer software, private servers, gothic and romance novels and, most recently, “Earth’s Song,” a sci-fi novel for young adults. His ability to write fiction and nonfiction demonstrated his remarkable range as a writer. In mid-life, Dennis discovered he had a good voice and enjoyed singing. He took singing lessons in his late 40s and ultimately joined the chorus for several Glimmerglass Opera productions, including “La Bohème.” He also performed in several Orpheus Theatre plays and with various regional choirs. Dennis leaves a significant legacy for his financial and personal support of charitable initiatives, and particularly those that benefited the residents of the Village and Town of Otego. As president of the Harris Memorial Library board, Dennis was involved in overseeing the construction of an addition in the 1980s. He and Peggy helped fund the addition and, in the end, the project was financed solely by donations. In 2020, he permanently protected his cherished Otego farm by donating a conservation easement to the Otsego Land Trust. Lastly, he established the Greater Otego Library and Education Fund with the Community Foundation

of Otsego County for the benefit of the Harris Memorial Library and the enhancement and development of educational and cultural resources of the Town of Otego to include, but not limited to, the Otsego Christian Academy. In addition to Dennis’ daughter Celeste, he was predeceased by his parents, William and Ruth (Eichelberger) Fowler, and his wife, Peggy, who died in 2017. Peggy was his guiding star and partner throughout a happy 46-year marriage, often typing and editing his writing. And then there was Bandit, his beloved cat who passed away in 2024, who gave him 18 years of faithful and, at times, grumpy companionship. Dennis is survived by his brother, Jerry Fowler (Betty); two nephews, John and Eric Fowler; and several great-nieces and nephews. Gratitude is extended to the New York State Veterans Home at Oxford for their compassionate care of Dennis at the end of his life. Special thanks are extended to the numerous veterans who gave Dennis an Honor Guard farewell, a beautiful tribute to an accomplished, generous, and long life. A memorial service and reception celebrating Dennis’s life will be held July 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. Friends and Otego residents may make a donation in his memory to the local nonprofits he supported: the Community Foundation of Otsego County, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, the Harris Memorial Library, the Otsego Land Trust, the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta or a charity of their choice. To send online condolences or share a memory of Dennis please visit w w w. o t t m a n f u n e r a l home.com Arrangements are under the care of the Ottman Funeral Home, 22 Church Street, Cherry Valley, New York.

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

Letters

Continued from page 4 apparently was cause for surprise to our visitors, given the image our current president projects. Mr. Johnston fears we face a bleak future with signs of “decay” everywhere because we are deeply divided along “political, racial, religious, cultural, gender and other lines.” My view is that such differences are an American strength. We are open, tolerant and a welcoming society. We live in a country that supports the right to privacy and personal freedom, governed by our Constitution and law. We make mistakes, we disagree, and we outright fail at times, but we learn and do better. I gladly choose a messy democracy over personal selfaggrandizement and totalitarianism. I hope we, our visitors, and the world recognize that these positive American values will endure. Nicole A. Dillingham Springfield

Regarding the Declaration On the Fourth of July, in many communities throughout the nation, the Declaration of Independence is read on village greens, in town squares and in other public spaces.

Observer

Continued from page 5 those mandated programs and to recoup their cost to participate in energy efficiency initiatives. No wonder we need more than 650 employees in the DPS to oversee this nightmare. I can now understand why the Ithaca City Council passed a resolution requesting that our attorney general investigate NYSEG, Rochester Gas and Electric DBA Avangrid, its parent company, Iberdrola, and our own PSC. Let’s push our Oneonta City Council to join Ithaca and pass our own resolutions asking for investigation into their performance and rate case proceedings, as Ithaca has. And while we’re at it, let’s call out the politicians who appointed the seven members that lead the PSC, who accepted campaign dollars from the Avangrid/NYSEG Political Action Committee. Conflict of interest much? Enough is enough! Mary Sommer Tingley is a resident of the City of Oneonta. ADDITIONAL NEWS ITEMS CAN BE FOUND EACH WEEK ONLINE AT ALLOTSEGO.COM

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9 The tradition has continued for 250 years as a reminder of the reasons our forebearers found it necessary to overthrow their ruler: his actions had made him a tyrant, thereby forfeiting his right to govern a free people. Thomas Jefferson, the principal draftsman of the Declaration, felt that “a decent respect for the opinions of mankind” necessitated including a list of the grievances that drove the colonists to take this revolutionary action. Although many describe conditions as they existed in King George III’s 18th century, others are translatable to similar conditions existing in President Donald J. Trump’s 21st century. To quote a few: • “He has endeavored to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither…” [Anti-immigration policies and actions; restrictions on legal naturalization procedures.] • “[C]utting off our Trade with all parts of the world…” [Tariffs.] • “[T]ransporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offenses:” [Summary deportations and transfer of people residing in the United States to compliant third countries for incarceration.]

• “He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us…” [January 6, 2021 assault on the U.S. Capitol.] Finally, the Declaration asserts: “A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.” When the Declaration was read for the first time on July 4, 1776, historians report that the colonists were divided on the issue of independence from England. However, the signers of the Declaration didn’t need everyone to consent to the removal of the tyrant to carry the day; they only needed a firm and continued resolve by those who did. With similar resolve, today’s Americans can do the same to their generation’s ruling tyrant. John A. Rudy Cooperstown

This Definitely Crosses a Line The recent release of President Trump’s financial disclosure report should outrage every American who believes public office is a public trust. According to the disclosure, President Trump and his family earned an astonishing $1.2 billion through cryptocurrency ventures while his own administration is responsible for shaping and enforcing policies that directly

affect that industry. Whether one supports or opposes cryptocurrency is beside the point. The issue is the breathtaking and unprecedented conflict of interest. Americans deserve to know that decisions made in Washington are based on what is best for the country—not on what will increase the personal wealth of those making them. For generations, our nation has expected presidents to avoid even the appearance of self-dealing. That standard has been sadly abandoned. When the president stands to profit personally from an industry his administration is regulating, public confidence in the integrity of government is inevitably undermined. This is not simply about one financial disclosure or one business venture. It represents a level of corruption and

self-enrichment that is unprecedented in modern American history. If such conduct had occurred under any previous administration, members of both political parties would have demanded investigations and accountability. The total silence from the Republican members of Congress is indeed deafening. All Americans should be alarmed by the erosion of ethical standards at the highest levels of government and the total absence of checks and balances on this behavior. Our democracy depends on leaders serving the public interest, not their own political party or financial interests. If we normalize this kind of conduct, we risk permanently lowering the ethical bar for every future president. Michael Stein Cooperstown

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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

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

A-10 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Legal

Legal nOtice

MORE SOCIA HUB LLC

Lawful 6LegalJul.16

Notice of Formation of

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

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, 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 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.

Notice of Formation of

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

Cooperstown Bed & Breakfast LLC

Legal nOtice

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

Notice of Formation of

Legal nOtice

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

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 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

Notice of Formation of Lena’s Talents LLC. 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 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 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 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.

Legal

LEGALS

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 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.

Legal

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.6

THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE SHIPMAN; KRISTINE MARIE DOMION A/K/A KRISTINE MARIE MONDORE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE SHIPMAN; CANDICE J. DOMION, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE SHIPMAN; BRYAN KENNETH GARNER A/K/A BRYAN KENNETH GARNER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE SHIPMAN; CHLOE MELISSA DOMION A/K/A CHLOE MELLISA FARAH STABILE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE SHIPMAN; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW, NEXT-OF-KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, BENEFICIARIES, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS AND PARTIES HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENT ROSALIE SHIPMAN, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (NORTHERN DISTRICT); FRED R. GILLETTE; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10” inclusive, the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants

to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance upon the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the date of service or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. If you fail to so appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated June 22, 2026.

Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Jordan J. Manfro, Esq., 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591 Phone: (914) 3453020 4LegalJul.30

mated cost: $6,750,000 Amount of obligations to be issued: $6,000,000 bonds Available County funds: $750,000 SEQRA status: Unlisted Action 1LegalJul.9

Legal nOtice

NOTICE OF BOND RESOLUTION

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The bond resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on July 1, 2026, and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the County of Otsego, New York, is not authorized to expend money, or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of this notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearing at the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York on Monday, July 27th, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard, to discuss the following:

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 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 Legal nOtice SUMMONS SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF OTSEGO GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS SEPARATE TRUSTEE OF GV TRUST 2025-1, Plaintiff, -againstEDWARD J. DOMION, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF

Index No. EF2026-153 Plaintiff Designates Otsego County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject premises is situated in Otsego County. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS SEPARATE TRUSTEE OF GV TRUST 2025-1) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Brian D. Burns J.S.C. Dated: June 22, 2026 Filed: June 22, 2026. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 180 Hyder Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439 Dated: February 19, 2026 Filed: February 24, 2026

A complete copy of the resolution summarized herewith is available for public inspection during regular business hours at the Office of the Clerk of the Legislature for a period of twenty days from the date of publication of this Notice. Dated: Cooperstown, New York, July 1, 2026. /s/Carol McGovern Clerk, Board of Representatives BOND RESOLUTION DATED JULY 1, 2026. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW WASTE TRANSFER BUILDING IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF OTSEGO, NEW YORK, AT A MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST OF $6,750,000, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $6,000,000 BONDS OF SAID COUNTY TO PAY A PORTION OF THE COST THEREOF. Specific objects or purposes: Construction of a new waste transfer building Period of probable usefulness: 25 years Maximum esti-

Applying for NYS grants through the Consolidated Funding Application Any resident of the Village of Cooperstown is entitled to be heard upon said public hearing. Disabled citizens, who require assistance in attending said public hearings, or in furnishing comments or suggestions, should contact the Village Clerk to request assistance. Dated: July 7th, 2026 By order of the Village Board Village of Cooperstown Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.gov 1LegalJul.9 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company: S2KIDS LLC Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 1/13/2014. Certificate of Change filing date: 6/10/2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail copy of process to 192 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. 6LegalAug.13

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

OCSD

Continued from page 1 noting the presence of current and retired faculty, staff, and community members. A central theme of the evening was compliance with New York State’s Open Meetings Law. Lipari Shue, who also serves as City of Oneonta councilmember for the Fourth Ward, emphasized that the OCSD board, as a public body, must meet those standards. “There are several ways noted which could increase compliance with this,” she said, “first and foremost, increasing public notice for all BOE regular and committee meetings—and ensuring that all meetings of the BOE are posted and open to the public.” She added that many attendees called for meetings to be recorded and posted online, pointing out that “the City of Oneonta has been doing [that] since 2020.” Concerns about transparency overlapped with questions about administrative spending. Lipari Shue said attendees raised issues about recent hiring decisions and salary increases at a time when the district has described its financial situation as “strained.” She pointed to the recent appointment of a director of IT, which led to the hiring of an “IT coordinator” and expanded duties for the media coordinator— OCSD Superintendent Tom Brindley’s daughter. Those expanded duties resulted in “a 30%+ pay increase for that employee,” according to Lipari Shue. “Questions were raised about that particular employee’s qualifications for those additional duties—and how those duties were ultimately assigned,” Lipari Shue said. She described this as part of a broader pattern. “Over the last few years, as administrators have retired or otherwise left the district, we have seen the scope and titles of those positions be changed to fit particular candidates,” she said, noting such changes often result in restructuring that “reassigns work, and with it, increases administrative expenses.” Lipari Shue noted that many of these positions “go unposted,” leaving the school community unaware of them until a candidate has already been selected for board approval. “This same thing has happened in the Curriculum, Special Ed and Transportation departments in recent years,” she said. Lipari Shue contrasted these administrative changes with the ongoing contract negotiations involving the OCSCA. The union has been negotiating with the district since March and has been working out of contract since July 1. “The lowest paid member OCSCA (an elementary-school secretary) earned just $25K in 2025-26—approximately $18/hour,” she said. A proposal to raise that salary to $28,000.00 (about $20/hour) for

2026-27 “was rejected by the District as too expensive.” Meanwhile, Lipari Shue noted, “the additional $15K funding for the media coordinator raise materialized well after the 2026-27 budget was passed by the board and the community.” Despite the tension, Lipari Shue praised OCSD Board President Shawn Beckerink’s handling of public comment. “The president of the board was exceptionally gracious… allowing everyone in the audience who wished to speak the opportunity to do so.” Speakers included Oneonta Teachers Association (AFT Local 2895) President Brian Fronckowiak, members of the public, and several active and retired OCSD teachers and BOE members. Lipari Shue also addressed the board directly during the meeting. She said that while administrators often serve as experts on day‑to‑day operations, “the board has ultimate oversight, and therefore ultimate responsibility.” When nearly 100 faculty and staff show up to raise concerns, she said, “That should be a giant neon sign that maybe you need to take a closer look at business‑as‑usual.” However, she noted that when BOE member Eamonn Hinchey made a motion to table an item for further consideration, “it doesn’t seem like they’re interested in doing that,” calling the board’s response “very concerning.” Lipari Shue encouraged constituents to contact the district with transparency concerns, but said doing so is difficult. “How constituents can contact the BOE, aside from attending meetings, is also surprisingly opaque,” she said. Although board members have biographies on the district website, “no contact information is listed—not even the info for the district clerk.” Lipari Shue provided the district‑issued e-mail addresses for current board members and noted that newly-elected member Emily Popek has not yet been sworn in and does not have an email address. The full meeting is available in two parts on Facebook, missing only about 30 seconds between recordings. Neither Beckerink nor Brindley replied to inquiries by press time.

County

Continued from page 1 require a very tight turnaround time, with a completed document required before the end of the calendar year. Both expenditures were approved in their respective committees, as well as in a special session of the Administration Committee. Rep. Keith McCarty said he didn’t see why the county was unable to put together an EMS plan in-house instead of using a consultant, to which Jones stated that the process is “too labor-intensive for small offices to undertake.” With committee busi-

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-11 ness concluded, the board turned to honoring two county retirees: Mark Owen, an employee of the Department of Social Services, and John Kohler, a member of the Highway Department. Board Chairman Edwin Frazier Jr. said each will receive a commemorative gift from their respective department heads for their years of public service. During the privilege of the floor, Eugene Marner expressed his concerns to the board about the supply of raw materials needed to produce diesel and aviation fuel across the United States. Marner explained the differences between light and heavy crude oil, stating that “all oil is not the same” and that the U.S. has a history of importing heavy crude. He said supplies of these resources have dwindled since the conflict with Iran began, exclaiming that a lack of diesel supply would grind not only industry to a halt, but nearly all of local agriculture. Marner acknowledged some organizations and journalists were raising the alarm, but said no government agencies or bodies were helping to call for action and stave off a potential energy crisis. In committee reports, McCarty spoke for the Public Works Committee, sharing that County Attorney Denise Hollis had asked to “present a bond resolution for a $1.8 million bond anticipation note,” allowing the county to expedite project financing while longerterm sources of funding are allocated. McCarty detailed that the bond would be used to pay for the designing and spotting of new county facilities, specifically a fire training center and Highway Department garage with the potential for a new public safety building or jail. He said after a lengthy discussion, Hollis’ request was approved. Rep. Andrew Marietta gave the report for the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, offering an update on the progress Planning Department Director Tammie Harris has made on researching data centers. Marietta said that a full report on the topic, which will include discussions on the energy, water, land and community impacts of data centers, is scheduled for the board’s August meeting. Rep. Adrienne Martini shared that Public Health Director Heidi Bond requested the Human Services Committee to accept grant funds from the Children with Special Health Care Needs Community Accessibility and Inclusion grant, which awards $31,450.00 per year for three years. Martini said that the grant funding would be used to create a sensory room at the county’s Meadows complex. Rep. James Powers represented the Solid Waste and Environmental Concerns Committee, providing the final bid total for the new waste transfer station. He said the project was bid at $6,454,596.00, with $750,000.00 coming from the Solid Waste reserves and the rest being financed with

bonds. Funding was approved by the board with the passing of Resolution 289, authorizing $6,750,000.00 for the project. After passing the rest of the consent agenda, the board put forth Res. 282, an acknowledgement of respect for the passing of eight-year Board of Representatives member Gary Koutnik. Koutnik served as the representative for District No. 11 of the City of Oneonta, Wards 1 and 2, from 2012 to 2019. Martini read the board’s remarks, stating that Koutnik “was dedicated to community services, social services— all of the human services departments, as well as the county as a whole. His leadership was felt.” The board observed a moment of silence in Koutnik’s honor. Following the approval of late resolutions, the board adjourned for a short recess before entering into an executive session, where it would end the public portion of the meeting. The next Otsego County Board of Representatives meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 5, at 10 a.m. The July 1 meeting can be viewed in its entirety at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=y7Uch3tbdg.

Partial Observer Continued from page 4

Fox January 21, 2026—“Study Finds Americans Paying 96% of the Cost of U.S. Tariffs” https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/study-findsamericans-paying-96-cost-u-s-tariffs • For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury: AP News August 30, 2025—“Federal judge issues order blocking Trump effort to expand speedy deportations of migrants” https://apnews.com/article/trump-deportationsimmigration-expedited-removal-d7146e4e633426afe 86031cdf14a60d4 New York Times September 9, 2025—“Trump Claims the Power to Summarily Kill Suspected Drug Smugglers” https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/04/us/politics/ trump-drug-smugglers-military.html He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us. CBS News January 11, 2021—“President Trump Admits Partial Blame for U.S. Capitol Riot” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdHJVcuCSmY For me, these offenses make up what Waldo Johnston refers to as “the real issues of the day.” The Declaration of Independence proposed a government that has the consent of the people whom it will govern, a government that provides safety and happiness. I believe this proposal might lay the foundation for uniting our divided house. Jill Holbrook is a resident of Netarts, Oregon and winters in Cooperstown. EDITOR’S NOTE: The views expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily the view of AllOtsego and its affiliates.

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Things To Do In and Around Otsego County _________

A-12 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

►Friday, July 10 WORKSHOP—All day. “Timber Frame Workshop.” Conducted by Jackson DuBois to build a traditional timber-frame outdoor stage. Continues 7/11 and 7/12. Fees apply; registration required. Cherry Valley Artworks, The Star Theater at The Foundry, 44 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643080. EMPLOYMENT— 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Renewal Course.” Fees apply; registration required. ExCL Center, 4 Dietz Street, Oneonta. (607) 4362831. BLOOD DRIVE— 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gym, Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377 ext. 147 or RedCrossBlood.org HISTORY—3 p.m. Unveiling of historical marker for U&D Depot, the largest and final terminus station on the U&D line, in service from 1900-1954. The Depot Restaurant and Tavern, 4 ½ Railroad Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 4320960. 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. OPENING RECEPTION—5-7 p.m. “91st National Juried Art Exhibition.” Galleries A, B and C. Awards announced at 6 p.m. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-9777. LIVE MUSIC— 5:30 p.m. Carl and Jack. The Al Gallodoro Memorial Stage, Muller Plaza, Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 434-8458. BOOK CLUB— 5:30 p.m. “Book Club: A Curious Witch’s Year.” Take a year-long journey

through the book “A Spell in the Wild: A Year (and Six Centuries) of Magic” by Alice Tarbuck. Free. Meets second Friday of each month. Mountain Magic Market, 52 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown. (607) 287-7278. LIVE MUSIC—6-9 p.m. The Lake House Summer Concert Series: Carson Murphy. Back Patio, The Lake House, 2521 County Highway 22, Richfield Springs. (720) 940-8377. LIVE MUSIC— 6-10 p.m. Nate Gross Band. Includes food truck, outdoor/indoor bar and bonfire. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. info@ ommegang.com.

►Saturday, July 11 PISTOL PERMITS— 9 a.m. to noon. Saturday pistol permit services. Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, 172 County Highway 33 West, Cooperstown. (607) 5474271. WORKSHOP—9 a.m. to noon. “Stained Glass with Chris.” Create either an Americana design or a succulent holder to take home. Main View Gallery and Studio, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890. 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/ CARNIVAL—9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Annual Unadilla Carnival of Sales.” Village-wide sales, vendors, food, music and more. Presented by the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce. Unadilla. INTRO TO BEEKEEPING—10 a.m. Learn the basics of starting a hive, caring for bees and more with Tim Gargash. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

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Time OuT OTsegO Things To Do In and Around Otsego County

FAIR ENTRY—10 a.m. Otsego County Fair Entry Workshop. Martin Hall, Otsego County Fairground, Morris. tla47@ cornell.edu POTTERY—10 a.m. to noon. “Slip Cast and Hand Build Holiday Magic: Make It Merry.” Ornament-making workshop for all. Return on 8/1 to “Deck the Clay.” The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org. WORKSHOP—10 a.m. to noon. Learn To Clean/ Repair Gravestones. No experience or tools needed. Presented by the Morris Historical Society at Harmony Cemetery, 136 Pegg Road, Morris. (607) 263-5965. FESTIVAL—10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “30th Anniversary Stagecoach Run Art Festival.” Free, self-guided open studio and gallery tour of area artists and makers. Continues 7/12. Treadwell and Franklin. Stagecoachrun.com WALKING TOUR— 10 a.m. Historical Walking Tour. Led by Cooperstown Village Historian Will Walker, focusing on Revolutionary War-era events in and around Cooperstown, veterans’ gravesites and legacies of the Revolution. Free and open to the public. Meet on the porch at Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 4313296. PLANETARIUM—Family-friendly show open to the public. Fees apply. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 436-2011. • 10:30 a.m. “Mars: The Ultimate Voyage.” • 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.”

CRAFT—11 a.m. “Sitn-Stitch.” Bring a knit or crochet project to work on or learn the craft. Held second Saturday of each month. Unadilla Public Library, 193 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-3131. WORKSHOP—1-3 p.m. “Plant Wand Workshop with Amanda Trumbull.” Fees apply; registration required. 25 Main Collective, 21 Main Street, Cherry Valley. 25maincollective@gmail.com. BASEBALL— 1:30 p.m. show; 2 p.m. game. Pick-up baseball game with the Cooperstown Cowboys. Pirate themed, costumes encouraged. Open to ages 23+. Beaver Valley Campground, 138 Towers Road, Milford. POTTERY— 1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters work on personal projects. No instruction provided. Fees apply. Held 1:30-4:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Thursday. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org. MOVIE—2 p.m. The Good Dinosaur. Edmeston Free Library, 26 East Street, Edmeston. (607) 965-8208. BOOK CLUB—2 p.m. “BYO Book Club.” Followed by a meeting of the Book Journaling Club. Meets second Saturday of each month. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Highway 11, Hartwick. (607) 2936600. CLASSICAL MUSIC— 4 p.m. “Honest Brook Music Festival: Frisson Quartet.” Music for oboe, violin, viola and cello. Tickets required. Honest Brook Music Festival Barn, 1921 Honest Brook

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

Road, Delhi. hbmfinfo@ gmail.com. LIVE MUSIC—4 p.m. Chris Riffle. The Al Gallodoro Memorial Stage, Muller Plaza, Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 4348458. HORSES—5 p.m. “Youth Mini Camp: Pony Olympics.” Open to youth ages 5-11. Fees apply; registration required. Twisted K Ranch, 172 Burdick Road, Milford. (607) 643-1790. THEMED TOUR— 6:30-8:30 p.m. “Get Lit!” Discover the history of lighting and enjoy themed cocktails. Tickets required. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown. (607) 5475098. BASEBALL—7 p.m. Oneonta Outlaws vs. Boonville Lumberjacks. Damaschke Field, Neahwa Park, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 4330545. CONCERT—7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m. “Crystal Ship: The Ultimate Tribute to The Doors.” Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080. NOTRE DAME—7 p.m. Helping to Rebuild Notre Dame. A talk by Jackson Dubois, executive director of the Timber Framers Guild. Cherry Valley Artworks, 44 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643080.

►Sunday, July 12 CULLMAN DERBY— Noon. Soap Box Races. Clifton Street, Unadilla. ccdcderby.com/index.cfm LIVE MUSIC—1-3 p.m. “Sunday Sessions with The WP’s, Dan and Gavin Hardy.” The Gatehouse, 130 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111. SUNDAY SERIES— 1-3 p.m. “Lawrence Swart and Oneonta’s Early Settlers.” Presented by Norma Slawson and Helen Rees. Free and open to the public. Bring your own folding lawn chair. Front lawn, Swart-Wilcox House Museum, Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. FUNDRAISER—1 p.m. “Oneonta Theatre Fundraiser Golf Tournament.” Men’s, women’s and mixed teams of all skill levels. Contest, 50/50 raffle and barbecue at 5 p.m. Tickets required. Presented by the Friends of the Oneonta Theatre at Oneonta Country Club, 9 Country Club Drive, Oneonta. (607) 4341930. CHANGEOVER DAY— 2-3:30 p.m. If traveling south from Cooperstown on State Route 28, seek an alternate route. Cooperstown Dreams Park, Cooperstown. wegootsego.com/changeover/ RELIGION—4-7 p.m. Opening day for the 35th Summer Institute of Theology. Ecumenical faith-based Christian education for everyone. Held 7/12 through 7/17, featuring seminars on topics from art and faith, to social justice and current events, to spirituality. Fees apply; registration required. Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. (607) 2875434.

►Monday, July 13 DEADLINE—Last day to register for Walking Tour of Historic Homer Folks Tuberculosis Hospital with GOHS member Bob Brzozowski, Homer Folks nurse Janice Downie, Homer Folks child patient Frank Marquette and others. Tour by donation; registration required. Held at 1:30 p.m. on 7/16 at the Job Corps Campus, 21 Homer Folks Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-0960.

FOOTBALL— 9-10:30 a.m. Preseason Football Camp for grades 3-6. Fees apply; registration required. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. (607) 5472800. SOCCER—9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Nike Soccer Camp at SUNY Oneonta.” High quality youth soccer training experience. Held 7/13 through 7/17 and 8/3 through 8/7. Fees apply; registration required. Red Dragon Field, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (800) 645-3226. SENIOR MEALS—Seniors enjoy a delicious meal Monday-Friday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn and fresh fruit. (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. PICNIC—Noon. Red, “White, and Blue Picnic” with the Oneonta Garden Club. Bring a dish to pass. Large pavilion upper level at Wilber Park, Oneonta. GUITAR CAMP— 1-3 p.m. “OWL Pluck and Play.” Children in grades 2-6 learn to make music on a real guitar with a local music professional. Camp held 7/13 through 7/17. Fees apply; registration required. Oneonta World of Learning, 167 Youngs Road, Oneonta. oneontaworld@gmail. com. QUILTING—1-4 p.m. Drop-in Quilting Class: Flying Geese Quilt Block. Series held the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Fees apply. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 4413111. BLOOD DRIVE— 1:30-5:30 p.m. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. RedCrossBlood. org LIVE MUSIC— 5:30 p.m. Summer Concert: Small Town Big Band. Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377 ext. 147. LIBRARY—6:30 p.m. Board Meeting. Edmeston Free Library, 26 East Street, Edmeston. (607) 965-8208. LIVE MUSIC—7 p.m. “Music at Meadow Links”: Contrasonics. Old-time music on fiddles with vocals and more. Meadow Links Golf Pavilion, 502 County Road 27, Richfield Springs.(315) 858-1646.

►Tuesday, July 14 COMMUNITY HIKE— 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at Whaupaunaucau State Forest, Norwich. (607) 431-8010. TUESDAY MARKET—Noon to 4 p.m. Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101 Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. (607) 5478881. SUMMER FUN—Noon to 2 p.m. “Dinosaur Terrarium.” Open to children ages 5-15. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 9886661. MINECRAFT CLUB— 1 p.m. Held Tuesdays through 8/11. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

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