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Cooperstown’s offiCial newspaper

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founded in 1808

OTSEGO COUNTY HERITAGE BUSINESSES HONORED, pages 2-3 VISIT www.ALLOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER/ONLINE Volume 218, No. 39

Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, September 24, 2026

BACK TO VICE! E SER TABLE-SID

Bassett Benefit Dinner Helps Sustain Lifeline for Rural Students across Four Counties By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

C -1782 607-432 q.com b brooksb

Newsstand Price $1

COOPERSTOWN ommunity members, healthcare advocates and supporters gathered on Friday, September 18 at the historic Fenimore Farm and Country Village for a benefit reception to bolster Bassett Healthcare Network’s School-Based Health Program. The event, featuring refreshments and community fellowship, raised funds for a program that provides medical, dental and mental health services to local students throughout the region. Organizers said proceeds from the evening

will help sustain and expand a program that has become a vital resource for thousands of children and families across rural New York. For more than three decades, Bassett Healthcare Network’s School-Based Health Program has quietly transformed healthcare access for children across the region. What began 34 years ago has grown into the largest rural school-based health program in the state, serving students in four counties and 18 school districts, while continuing to expand its reach into additional communities. That remarkable growth, and the mission behind it, Continued on page 8

Lake Protection Plan Moving Forward By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

SPRINGFIELD his is an economic engine, but it also is the core and the heart of our community.” With those words, Dr. Bertine McKenna, chair of the Otsego Lake Watershed Supervisory Committee, opened a September 15 public meeting on the future of Otsego Lake, setting the tone for an evening focused on protecting the region’s most important natural resource through science, collaboration and long-term planning. “We have to make sure that we keep it that way,” she told attendees gathered to hear updates on a comprehensive watershed management effort designed to safeguard the lake for future generations. Scientists, municipal leadINSIDE

► HARTWICK SAGA CONTINUES, page 2 ► dWARF PLANETS AND ‘DUST BUNNIES,’ page 4

ers, environmental organizations and residents gathered for the meeting, hosted by the Watershed Supervisory Committee, to review progress on a federally recognized Nine Element Watershed Management Plan. The science-based framework is intended to guide water quality protection efforts, prioritize future projects and funding opportunities, and strengthen cooperation among communities throughout the watershed. For Dr. Jacob Gillette, the watershed coordinator helping to oversee the effort, success is measured not by dramatic change but by preservation. “If we were all to come back in 20 years and we had basically the same lake we have now, that would be an overwhelming success,” Gillette said. He later emphasized that the plan is intended to remain

a living document. “The main thing I want everybody to understand is that this is very much an adaptive management plan,” Gillette said. “We do not plan for this to be something we finish a year from now, pat ourselves on the back and put it up on a shelf somewhere.” McKenna credited a broad coalition of partners for advancing the project, including local governments, the Otsego Lake Association, the Otsego County Conservation Association, the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, state agencies, consultants and volunteers. She also highlighted the Village of Cooperstown’s financial commitment to the planning process. “We’ve made a lot of progContinued on page 8

Beauty Contest

Photo provided

COOPERSTOWN—The Inn at Cooperstown, 16 Chestnut Street, took top honors in the 2026 Clark Foundation Cooperstown Beautification Contest in Category I: Most Attractive Floral Display in a Business Setting. “The planters and hanging baskets complement the building beautifully. The color palette is spot on, and the thoughtful use of materials reflects true expertise,” the judges said. See page 7 for the complete list of this year’s winners. “The contest was founded more than 70 years ago by Susan Vanderpoel Clark.

Community Effort Brings New Splash Pad to Oneonta By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

ONEONTA fter years of ► CITIZENS SPEAK OUT, planning, fundpage 4 raising and community collabora► FIGHTING THE ‘NOISE tion, construction on a WAR,” page 5 new splash pad at Wilber ► ART, DANCE AND Park is expected to begin RUMMAGE SALES, page 6 October 19, bringing a ► BEAUTIFICATION CONTEST long-anticipated family recreation feature one WINNERS, page 7 step closer to reality. ► PLACES TO gO, PEOPLE Community leaders, TO SEE, page 12 donors and project supporters recently gathFollow Breaking News On ered at the Wilber Park pool complex to celebrate the launch of the project,

Photo by Joshua Youngquist

From left, Brian Wright, Frank Russo, Ben Guenther, Gary Herzig, and Mayor Dan Buttermann break ground at the site of the new splash pad in Wilbur Park.

which organizers hope will be completed next spring. The splash pad is expected to provide a new destination for children and families while complementing the existing pool facilities. Speaking on behalf of the Oneonta Family YMCA, Executive Director Frank Russo reflected on the project’s origins. “What really started several years ago as a conversation kind of turned into a vision, and a vision turned into a plan,” Russo said. “Today, maybe we’re

finally going to put a shovel in the ground and get this project started.” Russo thanked numerous community partners who helped make the project possible, including the City of Oneonta, the Future for Oneonta Foundation, Five Star Subaru and local philanthropist Brian Wright. He emphasized that the splash pad is ultimately a community project created to benefit local children and families. “It’s not really a Y project, it’s not a city Continued on page 3

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

Trade Officials Public Letters Over Lawsuit, Town Governance

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL ONEONTA & HOMETOWN

? Kelly Edge All-Season® ? Assurance® All-Season ? Kelly Edge® HTAlthough she declined to comment in an article By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST ? Kelly Edge All-Season® Perf. ? Kelly Edgeon ? Eagle® Sport All-Season Family (inc. ROF & SCT) MT® this topic published by AllOtsego on Thursday, ? Kelly Winter Access™ ? Winter Maxx® 2 ? Kelly Edge AT® HARTWICK September 17, Moore responded to LoRusso in a ? Kelly Edge HP® ? Kelly® Safari® TSR ? Winter Maxx® SJ8

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Dr. Ethan Talbot Named Division Chief of BHN General Surgery

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 ® 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®, WinterCommand® c )>> .@= 9;C@G= =FLMJQ he 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 or $50 Prepaid Card with ® ® ® ™ &G9<=J .AJ=K c #FL=JKL9L= 9LL=JA=K y Edge HP , Kelly Edge All-Season , Kelly Edge All-Season Performance and Kelly Winter Access . ar 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 ard 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

COOPERSTOWN— Bassett Healthcare Net, 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 Credit Card offer. work recently announced ho 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 ON THE retailer for complete 4(%4)2%3(/0 "): dyear, and bonus portion of rebate offered by Citibank, N.A. Goodyear is not affiliated with Mastercard. Additional terms, conditions, and fees apply. See participating detailsappointment and rebate forms. the of Ethan Financing FARM TIRE Available Talbot, MD, as division der license by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and affiliates. OPEN MON. - SAT. 8-6 SERVICES com/en-US/tire-warranty/30-day-pledge. 155 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie, NY chief of general surgery, now in effect. In his new

518.673.5399

In a Facebook post on September 20, LoRusso said he filed an Article 78 proceeding and declaratory judgment action against Moore and the Town of Hartwick on August 14, alleging violations of the Open Meetings Law, improper fund transfers, labor law violations, and financial mismanagement. “The public deserves to know the facts, not a carefully spun political narrative,” LoRusso wrote. He argued that questioning the administration’s actions is “my statutory duty as an elected Town Board Member to protect Hartwick from systemic mismanagement and unauthorized operations.” Among the allegations outlined by LoRusso are claims that town funds were transferred without proper authorization, that financial reporting deficiencies have hindered the town’s ability to close its books, and that a highway employee was denied union representation during discussions about repayment of retirement contributions. The dispute is expected to continue in court. According to LoRusso, the matter is scheduled to be heard in New York State Supreme Court in Cooperstown on October 30. The lawsuit comes as Hartwick prepares for the November election. Moore is seeking re-election as town supervisor and will face current Town Clerk Andrea Vazquez. She defeated Vazquez in last year’s General Election, 400 votes to 296.

leadership capacity, Dr. Talbot will play a key role working with surgical leadership across Bassett Healthcare Network to serve patients, officials said in a press release.

Talbot completed his residency in general surgery at Bassett Medical Center after finishing medical school at the University of Connecticut, Farmington. After his resi-

dency, he made Bassett his permanent home. “I came to Bassett as a resident in 2016 and immediately knew this was a special place,” Talbot said.

Now, probably more than ever, let’s celebrate our

Heritage Businesses EstablishEd in

1834

hyde hall

Natational Historic Landmark & Museum 276 Glimmerglass St. Pk. Rd, Cooperstown, NY

established in

VOTED 2026 AmEricA’s bEsT ciDEry

1856

sEAsOn EnDs DEcEmbEr 20Th

607-547-5098 • www.hydehall.org

otSeGo CouNtY HeRItAGe BuSINeSS established in

1869

1881

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

1883

oneontA fAmIly ymcA

www.cooperstowntrain.com • Like us on facebook

we BuIld stRong kIds, stRong fAmIlIes, stRong communItIes 20-26 ford Avenue, oneonta, ny 13820 www.oneontaymca.org • (607) 432-0010

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

Christmas Trains now on sale! 36 east Main street, Milford • 607-432-2429

established in

1886 Church & Scott, Inc.

5396 State Hwy 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326

(607) 547-1228

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

EstablishEd in

1925 Connell, Dow & Deysenroth, Inc. Funeral Home

established in

PROUD MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY SINCE

Founded by Chester & Mildred ingalls Serving all faiths with care and dignity. Peter a. deysenroth

105 Campus Drive, Oneonta, NY. 607-286-7171 • www.springbrookny.org

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

OTSEGO COUNTY HERITAGE BUSINESS

82 Chestnut St., Cooperstown • 607-547-8231

established in

1939

1933

oneonta • Richfield springs • cooperstown Roxbury • Delhi • Walton • norwich Binghamton • clark Mills

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

1951 The Family Restaurant for Over 75 Years

183 Main street, OneOnta • 607-432-9060

OtsegO cOunty Heritage Business

I-88 Exit 16, Rt. 7 Oneonta • 607-432-1782 • brooksbbq.com

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

This 4th of July will be the 250th anniversary

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Splash Continued from page 1 project, it’s not an FOF project,” Russo said. “It’s a community project, and it’s really for the kids.” Oneonta Mayor Dan Buttermann, who attended the event, praised the partnerships that helped move the splash pad project from concept to construction and highlighted the importance of community-driven investments in improving quality of life

across the city. Russo noted that the project succeeded because of the combined efforts of local government, nonprofit organizations, businesses and residents. He credited the Future for Oneonta Foundation, Five Star Subaru, Brian Wright, city officials and community donors for helping transform the idea into a reality. Also in attendance was Greg Mattice, City of Oneonta administrator, whose support was recog-

nized alongside that of numerous community partners who helped move the initiative from planning and fundraising into construction. Representing the Future for Oneonta Foundation, former Mayor Gary Herzig highlighted the broad community support behind the effort. “What really makes me excited about this project is we had close to 100 people, citizens of Oneonta, donate money toward this construc-

tion,” Herzig said. “Some donated $5.00, some donated $500.00. It didn’t matter. People said, ‘I support this community. I want to be a part of this community. I want to make things happen,’ and stepped up and did so.” Herzig said the project demonstrates what can happen when residents, businesses and organizations unite behind a shared goal. A major boost to the fundraising campaign came from Five Star Subaru

and owner Ben Guenther, whose contributions through Subaru’s Share the Love program helped propel the effort forward. Russo also credited Brian Wright with helping bring the project across the finish line through a matchinggift campaign. Guenther said community support is one reason his company continues to invest in local projects. “One of the reasons that we get involved in the community is because this community is so easy

We Honor Our

to get involved in,” he said. “Everybody pulls together. It’s so rewarding to be involved in that.” When completed, the splash pad will replace aging aquatic amenities and offer a modern, accessible attraction for families visiting Wilber Park. Organizers say the project stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when local government, businesses, nonprofits and residents work together to invest in the future of their community.

Heritage Businesses established in

established in

1956

1953

Sam Smith’s Boatyard 6098 state Route 80, cooperstown 607-547-2543

CatskillSymphonyOrchestra.org (607) 269-7501

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

ESTABLISHED IN

1973

55 oneIDA st. oneontA, ny 607-432-2800 • 800-388-3632 otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

EstablishEd in

1980 lamont Engineers

established in

1975

Hubbell’s Real Estate

7300 NY-80 Cooperstown • 607-547-2255 Glimmerglassfestival.org

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

157 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 607-547-5740 otsego county heRitage business

established in

1981

Dedicated to Service...Committed to Excellence 197 Elm Street • Cobleskill, NY 518-234-4028 • www.lamontengineers.com

otSEgo CouNtY HERItAgE BuSINESS

serving our community for 40 years 5006 state Highway 23 • oneonta otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

101 Main street, cooperstown 607-547-8881 otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

LEAF Leatherstocking Education on Alcoholism/Addictions Foundations, Inc.

The Blue Mingo Grill

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

1987

1982

6098 state Route 80, cooperstown 607-547-2543

189 Main Street #101 • Oneonta • 607-432-0090 www.leafinc.org

1990 Bieritz insurance established in

LJ’s sassy Boutique

209 Main st., cooperstown 607-547-2951 • www.bieritzinsurance.com

607-547-6141 • 165 Main Street Cooperstown

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

Drs. Jill and Matt Craig Welcoming new patients

4910 State Hwy 28, Cooperstown • 607-282-4140 www.cooperstownfamilychiropractic.com

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

2008

2009

wn on to

Home

Cooperstown Family Chiropractic

established in

nta eo

2008

2002

Your “Hometown” Insurance Agency 36th Anniversary serving Otsego County

established in

HOMETOWN anniversary ONEONTA 20

08 - 2026

& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

21 Railroad Avenue, cooperstown 607-547-6103 • www.allotsego.com

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

established in

2022

A beacon of hope and cultural vibrancy 917-859-6672•fenimore-orchestra.org

otsego county HeRItAge BusIness

This 4th of July will be the 250th anniversary of United States of America signing of the

Perspectives

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL EDITORIAL

Mohawk Valley Gave

ast week’s editorial was a nod to “Mohawk Valley Gives,” a community-wide giving day to benefit nonprofit organizations serving the Mohawk Valley. It seems only fitting that we should give a shout-out this week to Otsego County’s top performers. Mohawk Valley Gives was initiated in 2022 by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and powered in part by the Upmobility Foundation. The Staffworks Save a Life and Community Foundation of Otsego County campaigns run concurrently. This year, Mohawk Valley Gives fell on Friday, September 18, with early donations beginning on Monday, September 14. There were 441 participating charitable organizations, and a number of Otsego County groups finished in the top 120. At number 16 overall, the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals led all Otsego County nonprofits, raising $100,494.00 from 371 donors via the Staffworks campaign, according to the MVG website. Glimmerglass Festival was number one in the CFOC campaign and number 16 overall, with $69,160.00 from 101 donors. Rounding out Otsego County’s top 10 were: CFOC itself (24th overall with $62,660.00 from 91 donors); Cooperstown Food Pantry Inc. (35th overall with $48,465.00 from 128 donors); Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (89th overall with $17,978.00 from 38 donors); Hyde Hall (100th overall with $14,800.00 from 27 donors); Cooperstown Concerts (105th overall with $13,885.00 from 59

donors); Charles N. Gordon Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Inc. (106th overall with $13,741.00 from 55 donors); Otsego County Conservation Association (112th overall with $12,955.00 from 53 donors); and Otsego Land Trust (116th overall with $11,970.00 from 41 donors). In total, Mohawk Valley Gives raised more than $8 million this year, with 16,822 gifts from 9,235 donors. According to CFOC Executive Director Jeff Katz, Otsego nonprofits raised almost $520,000.00, including his organization’s new “Feed Otsego” initiative, which garnered $50,000.00 in support. Participating organizations also had the opportunity to compete for prizes in a number of categories. Glimmerglass Festival won the $500.00 Wayne Bank “Bank Roll Prize,” awarded to the organization participating in the CFOC’s sub-campaign that received the highest online donation on September 18. Hyde Hall Inc. won the $250.00 Steve Zerby Design Build “Make a Mark Prize,” awarded to the organization with a primary cause area of arts and culture participating in the sub-campaign that received the most online donations on September 18. The $250.00 NYCM Insurance “Best Coverage Prize” for the most unique online donors on September 18 went to the Legal Aid Society of Mid New York Inc. and the Susquehanna SPCA won the $250.00 “Community Care Prize” from NYCM for most online donations on September 18. The Otsego Land Trust won $750.00 from the Community Foundation of Otsego County for The

Eva Davy “Most Green Donations Prize,” awarded to the organization with a primary cause area of environment that received the most online donations on September 18. The Otsego County Conservation Association also walked away with a $750.00 Eva Davy “Most Green Supporters Prize” for the most unique online donors on September 18. Sponsored by the Robert and Esther Black Family Foundation Fund at the Richland County Foundation, the $400.00 “Top Dollar Prize” was awarded to the Charles N. Gordon Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Inc., which raised the most in online donations from September 14-18. Another $400.00 award from the Richland County Foundation, the “In It To Win It Prize,” was earned by the Cooperstown Food Pantry Inc. for receiving an online donation closest to 08:59:59 on September 18, and the Greater Oneonta Historical Society won the Steve Zerby Design Build “Otsego History Prize,” awarded to the history-related organization with the most donors on September 18. All in all, a very successful year for Otsego County charitable organizations. But it is important to remember that there were more than 90 such local causes represented in the CFOC sub-campaign that could use your support, among them the Hartwick Food Pantry, The Smithy Pioneer Gallery Inc., The Brookwood School, the Milford Central School Education Foundation, and Family Resource Network, to name just a few. Remember—no gift is ever too small.

CITIZEN SCIENCE

TRISHa MURO

Moons, Dwarf Planets and the Solar System’s ‘Dust Bunnies’

oor Pluto. Long considered the ninth planet in Earth’s solar system, Pluto lost that status in 2006 when the International Astronomical Union officially reclassified Pluto as a dwarf planet. There were many reasons for this decision, but in my own mind the rationale I find most compelling is based on Pluto’s orbit. While most planets in the solar system move such that their paths around the Sun are moreor-less constrained within the system’s flat disk, Pluto’s orbit is tilted unusually high. Furthermore, its orbit is so elliptical that for a significant portion of its path around the Sun, Pluto is actually closer to the Sun than Neptune. Each planet has its own unique (wacky?) characteristics, of course, but Pluto is just so… not the same as the others. So, let’s take a different approach and ponder whether Pluto could be considered a moon instead. What’s a moon, and what’s not a moon? Earth, of course, has only one moon (uncapital-

ized) and we humans continue to call it “The Moon” (capitalized). Just as we previously defined a planet as being an object that orbits a star, a moon is a natural object that orbits a planet. The word natural is in there mainly so that we don’t end up counting spacecraft and satellites as moons, but it’s important to note that moons may or may not evolve naturally in their currently observed locations. (Planets can—and d —“capture” moons!) Our Solar System has well over 400 moons orbiting the planets, with another 470 or so orbiting dwarf planets, asteroids and other objects. Only Mercury and Venus have no moons at all, and Saturn wins the crown for the most moons at 293. Some moons have been known for hundreds of years, while others were discovered literally last year. Moons have been pivotal to helping us understand our place in the cosmos, too. Jupiter’s four primary moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto) were discovered by Galileo Galilei in 1609-1610. His

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

•F

OUNDED

M C

E WIL

Cooperstown’s offiCial newspaper

1808 BY

OOP

“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.

founded in 1808

a publication of Iron String Press, Inc. Advertising Director / Publisher Emerita

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Darla M. Youngs

Staff Writer: Joshua Youngquist Office Manager: Larissa Ryan Sales Consultant: Randy Christian Columnists and Contributing Writers

Tammy Awtry, Bill Bellen, Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Richard deRosa, Maria Griswold, Chris Kjolhede, Larry Malone, Roberta McLain, Debra Moffitt, Trisha Muro, Wriley Nelson, Tom Shelby, Gayane Torosyan, Teresa Winchester

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

sketches of how these four bright spots shifted position around Jupiter night after night were the basis of his argument proving a Sun-centered solar system as opposed to an Earth-centered arrangement. But that’s another story… The term astronomers landed on, then, for Pluto is that it’s a dwarf planet. And it’s not the only one! You might have heard of Eris or Ceres, but our Solar System also has Makemake and Haumea as officially recognized dwarf planets for a total (so far) of five. In general, dwarf planets are bigger and more rounded than a typical asteroid. They may or may not have moons of their own, but their orbits around the Sun are a bit atypical and there’s often more debris along their orbital paths. (And if you’re wondering, yes, Pluto has moons. Its main moon, Charon, is almost half the size of Pluto itself!) But just as dust bunnies in our homes tend to Continued on page 8

Letters to the editor … In their opinION

Republicans and Socialism Today Republicans have been accusing Democrats since the 1930s of being communists (mostly untrue) or socialists (sometimes true). What’s new this election cycle is the practice of socialism by our Republican administration. A recent analysis by the Cato Institute indicates that our federal government is part owner of 30 (formerly private) companies. Not all these acquisitions are minor in scale: Our 10 percent holding of Intel makes us that company’s largest shareholder. The “golden share” demanded by the Trump administration for approving Nippon Steel’s purchase of U.S. steel gives the U.S. government veto power over corporate decisions. Westinghouse, IBM/ Anderon, Trilogy Metals, MP Materials, Global Foundries, the list goes on and on… In the words of Tad DeHaven (Cato Institute), “The federal government is now acting as regulator, customer, financier and shareholder. Decisions involving contracts, trade restrictions, permits and addi-

tional subsidies can affect the value of its holdings.” This sets up massive conflicts of interest, AKA corruption, with the blessing of most congressional Republicans. Go figure. Now, I do not equate all this administration’s shady business dealings with socialism. Requiring NVIDIA and AMD to send the Treasury 15 percent of the revenue from selling their chips to China in return for license approval was simple extortion. And the $13 billion of Venezuelan oil revenue captured in a U.S. Treasury account with zero accountability—that’s robbery. When I was a Republican elected official 20-odd years ago, a vote for GOP candidates was usually a vote against socialism and for family values. That is no longer how things work: This administration openly practices socialism, and they are clearly a crime family. Neighbors, please vote by November 3rd, and let your conscience be your guide. Ron Bishop Cooperstown

Angel Network Needs Your Help Every day, children in our community have needs that can be easy to overlook: a pair of winter boots, school supplies, a gas card to help a parent get to an appointment, the fee for a summer program, sports equipment, or even a little help keeping the heat on at home. The Angel Network of Cooperstown exists to help fill those gaps. We are a volunteer-led, community-based nonprofit serving children and families in the Cooperstown Central School District, and we rely on the generosity of our neighbors and local businesses to make that work possible. This year, we are excited to once again host our Mix & Mingle, our largest fundraising event. The evening brings our community together, introduces more people to the work of the Angel Network, and raises the funds that allow us to respond when local families need help. We are asking local businesses, organizations, and community members to help make this year’s Mix & Mingle Continued on page 9

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5

U.S. Citizens Can Protect Democracy by Fighting ‘The Noise War,’ Author Says By DEBRA MOFFITT Compiled by Tom Heitz/SHARON STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library

135 YEARS AGO

The hop crop of Otsego County will this year amount to about 4,500,000 pounds. If an average profit of say four cents a pound can be realized, it will amount to about $180,000, which will not include interest on the land and buildings. It is a little singular to us that men who last year were refusing to sell at 30 to 42 cents, are this year rushing their hops onto a yielding market at 11 to 14 cents. It shows that many growers act more from impulse than from sound judgment. We should not force prime to choice hops on the market at this time. If growers will be patient holders, prices should advance ere the close of the year. September 24, 1891

110 YEARS AGO

Sheriff Brown is entertaining a young man in the Otsego County jail who, when arraigned before Justice Harold D. Carpenter on a charge of carrying concealed weapons, gave his name as Harold Steele. Steele was found lying on the steps of the McEwan Ice Cream parlors at the corner of Main and Chestnut Streets Friday night dead drunk. He was arrested by Sheriff Brown and Officer Cooke. When he was searched it was found he was carrying a set of burglar’s tools sewed in the linings of his suit, a new H. & R. revolver, and a small bottle of chloroform. September 20, 1916

85 YEARS AGO

The thirty-fifth annual meeting of the Sixth District branch of the Medical Society of the State of New York was held in Cooperstown last week. Papers presented dealt with cancer of the breast, mental disorders of the involutional period of life, treatment of pain arising from heart disease, recent advances in nutrition and the need for legislation to supplant the ancient coroners system with a system of medical examiners similar to that of New York City. The attendance of doctors and their wives was estimated at about 125 by Dr. George M. MacKenzie, head of the Bassett Hospital. September 24, 1941

35 YEARS AGO

A new movement is growing in the United States – a movement to stop the thousands of senseless shootings that occur each year. The support for the Brady Bill is evidence of this movement. The League of Women Voters of New York State has chosen a ban on assault weapons in New York State as a 1991 legislative priority. The people of the United States can also make this their priority by supporting the U.S. Senate Crime Bill which also supports an increased ban on assault weapons. Now is the time to let your national and state legislators know that you want the shootings to stop. A vote on the Crime Bill is expected at the end of September. Now is the time to let your thoughts be heard. Martha B. Clarvoe, Cooperstown, President, Cooperstown Area League of Women Voters. September 25, 1991

20 YEARS AGO

September 22, 2006

Solution: “My Mind is Racing” (September 17)

COOPERSTOWN hen journalist J.J. Green, author of “The Noise War” visited Cooperstown last week, he gently tossed baseballs into the crowd, a nod to his childhood dreams of making it to the Hall of Fame. Then he tossed something much more challenging at the audience gathered in a famously All-American village: Can average citizens learn to recognize and defuse disinformation in time to save our U.S. democracy? Can we find a shared source of truth before it’s too late? Green was among Pentagon journalists who last year surrendered their press credentials rather than sign a Defense Department pledge to limit their reporting only to information released by the Trump government. The reporter described

Photo by Debra Moffitt

Journalist and author J.J. Green began his talk in the Cooperstown High School auditorium on September 17 with a reel of his media appearances.

himself as “humanitymotivated, not politically motivated” at the talk presented by the League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area at Cooperstown High School on Thursday, September 17. Disinformation is nothing new, said Green, a national security reporter for 25 years. His book points to the Nazis, Stalin and, more recently, Putin. In places like Belarus, disinforma-

tion—a deliberate attempt to communicate false information—morphed into the dominant narrative, according to a Belarusian journalist Green quotes in the book, a slim volume intended for citizens, journalists, students and leaders. In the United States, we’re celebrating 250 years of democracy, but some cracks are showing, he said. Our political divisions run deep, the number of jour-

nalists has shrunk and bad actors know how to manipulate people of all political stripes in social media platforms. “The nature of warfare has changed. The modern weaponry employed against us doesn’t make a sound. It lands directly in the palms of our hands,” he said. It’s our phones. From the shadows, dark forces hijack our brains with outrageous claims in social media. Continued on page 11

By MERL REAGLE

My Tax Day Film Guide… It just takes a lot out of me ACROSS 1 T Ype of salad? 5 Half of an African capital 10 Bouquet holder 14 Composer Berg 19 Like a Studs Terkel history 20 Della Street’s favorite subatomic particle? 21 Very top 22 “The truth” 23 Earthbound phobia 24 1987 Van Damme ninja flick 26 Buoyant body bar 27 Kurosawa’s Macbeth, 1957 29 Price-earnings, for one 31 “Nuts” 32 It’s a little possessive 33 Flower or color 36 Name of many a theater 39 Card player’s cry 42 Show at the front? 44 Willing one’s words 45 R eversal of Fortune 107 ___ matrix printer star 109 Frequently 46 1979 John Huston film 110 Thanksgiving noise mak50 Worn-down end ers? 51 Vergil’s escort 112 Org. overseeing the skies 52 Vodka brand 115 Where it all began? 53 Mo. of the squeezed wallet 117 Not tucked in 54 Take-off time, approx. 118 1959 Roger Corman flick 56 Word in many Bugs Bunny 124 Pond sound titles 126 1982 Stallone opus 58 Revenuer’s find 128 “Yes ___?” 60 Matching towels, etc. 129 Sand-castle site 64 Adept person 130 Actress Falco 66 Clumsy person 131 Hartford-based firm 68 Writer Anita 132 Mr. Big, to the Norse 70 Paine’s ___ of Reason 133 Hot, spicy drink 71 Rib donor 134 Tawdry tabloids 72 1984 Coen Brothers film 135 State anew 76 By and by 136 Lavish love (upon) 77 Unseat DOWN 79 Ballot abbr. 1 Turn or trench follower 80 A vote 2 ELO, for one 81 Pt.-scoring passes 3 Roseanne of Roseanne 82 Chipped beef ___ 4 1948 Mitchum drama 84 Baretta costar 5 “Waves of grain” color 87 Part of ABA: abbr. 6 Fit in 89 Common connector 7 Beginning 90 Type of bagel 8 Nincompoop 92 Find out 9 Relative of “witness ye” 94 Gets within spittin’ distance 10 Vicks product 98 Cheerful, mon cheri 11 “... peas in ___” 100 1979 Audrey Hepburn pic 12 Indian weight 102 Bennett and Curtis 13 Spare 103 Paderewski’s first 14 Making headlines, as a 106 Person

couple 15 Affectionate 16 1941 Tyrone Power movie 17 People blow it all the time 18 Napoleon’s field marshal 25 Old French moolah 28 Mid-Atlantic state? 30 Enthusiastic 33 Solve word searches 34 Land bird 35 Johnny Gray 36 Contract offer 37 Tax-time acct. 38 Garfield’s “owner” 40 ___ Jima 41 Quick drinks 43 Ski event 47 Barfly 48 Hex 49 Ball, for one 52 Ring out 54 Country S of Eritrea: abbr. 55 1973 Vincent Price thriller 57 Clothing for Pierre? 59 Law, to La Salle 61 Baracas and co. 62 Freudian concepts 63 List total, often 64 Middle East gulf 65 1935 Errol Flynn classic 67 Fancy dresser 69 Seeker of secrets, perhaps 71 Fuss 73 Where the Ducks play

74 Wall Street name 75 With less fat 78 Chapfallen 83 Call me on it: abbr. 85 Surfing mecca accessory 86 Camera pioneer 88 Shut up in a mausoleum 91 Oozy specimens 93 Old car 95 Tiny carpenter 96 New York city 97 Tax-form I.D. 98 Jazz job 99 In the past 100 Honey hoarders 101 Makes less dangerous 104 On the train 105 Gumby creator Art 108 C onnie Stevens-Dean Jones comedy, ___ Guillotine 111 Allude 113 Pose 114 Mogul emperor 116 The time ___ 118 Jail for McHale 119 Battlefield Robt. 120 Little ones 121 Latin word on a dollar bill 122 “Step ___!” 123 Over with 124 Zone of Ark. 125 Greek letter 127 Theatrical Princess

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

NEWS BRIEFS

Dream Ball Headed to Hall COOPERSTOWN—On Monday, September 28, the “Dream Baseball,” on loan from Hideki Tomita, will be added to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s “Yakyu|Baseball” exhibit. The Dream Baseball is the only known baseball signed by Sadaharu Oh, the all-time professional baseball home run king; four-time Most Valuable Player Shohei Ohtani; and Hall of Famer Babe Ruth. According to a press release, the Dream Baseball connects nearly a century of Japanese-American baseball history and is a symbol of the enduring bond between Japan and the United States through the game. It is the only known baseball bearing the signatures of these three players, each representing a different era in baseball history. Learn more about “Yakyu Baseball: The Transpacific Exchange of the Game” at baseballhall.org/yakyu.

Rebate Check Announced BINGHAMTON—New York State Electric and Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric encourage customers to utilize resources to help them lower their bill and to watch their mailbox for the POWER rebate check. The POWER rebate checks will be mailed between September and December to full-time residents in New York and are based on 2024 tax returns. Joint filers with incomes below $150,000.00 will receive a check of $200.00; joint filers with incomes between $150,000.00 and $300,000.00 will receive a check of $150.00; and single filers with incomes below $150,000.00 will receive a check of $100.00. Customers can discover ways to reduce their energy use and other beneficial programs by visiting www.nyseg.com/helpwithbill and www.rge.com/helpwithbill.

Scouts ‘Fall into Friendship’ OTSEGO COUNTY—Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways council staff and volunteers are tabling at school open houses across the region over the next few weeks. Families are encouraged to stop by to learn more about programming for girls in grades K–12 and discover how to join or form a troop. Council representatives will also share information about adult volunteer opportunities to lead troops, share skills and guide the next generation of leaders. Families of girls in grades K-3 are invited to onehour events specifically designed to give younger girls a hands-on Girl Scout experience. Each autumn-themed session includes friendship-based games, creative crafts, team challenges and dynamic activities. Girls will make friendship bracelets and contribute to a “Friendship Tree” while learning how Girl Scouting fosters kindness, leadership, and lifelong bonds, officials said. Each event offers a welcoming environment for families and girls to ask questions, explore membership options, learn about local troops, and sign up for the Girl Scout year. Caregivers must attend and stay for the duration. Sessions on Saturday, October 3 include: 10: 30 a.m., New Berlin Library, 15 South Main Street; and 10:30 a.m., Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 Main Street. Pre-registration for these events is encouraged at gsnypenn.org/fall.

‘Land and Sea’ Opens Oct. 2 COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Art Association will introduce “Land and Sea: From Coastal Maine to Rural New York,” featuring paintings by William Bracken and Deborah Bayly, with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, October 2. The exhibition explores the artists’ connections to the landscapes and places that have shaped their lives, organizers said. Bracken’s watercolor and gouache paintings depict buildings and landscapes transformed by nature and time, while Bayly’s work focuses on the rural places she knows and loves, including weathered barns, disappearing structures, woodlands, hills, water, and open skies. The exhibition will be on view until October 30 during regular gallery hours at the CAA, 22 Main Street, following the opening reception. The CAA will also launch its biennial “Luck of the Draw” fundraiser on October 2, with tickets going on sale that day. The event features an exhibition of 80 works donated by local artists and craftspeople, with 80 tickets available. Ticket holders will rank the artwork in the exhibition on a personal “wish list.” Those rankings will be used during the final drawing to determine which artwork each participant receives. The drawing event is scheduled for Sunday, October 18 at 2 p.m. For more information, call (607) 547-9777 or visit gallery@cooperstownart.com.

Results In for Brew-to-Brew SIDNEY—More than 200 runners and walkers took part in the second annual Sidney Brew-to-Brew 5K on Saturday, September 19. The race began at the Wakeman Coffee Co. in Sidney and finished at Muddy River Farm Brewery, along the Susquehanna River in Unadilla. The first male finisher was Charlie Santon, a 20-year-old from Broadalbin, with a time of 19:21. Lydia Dillon, 57, of Oneonta was the first female finisher, with a time of 23:09. At a postrace ceremony at Muddy River, event organizers presented awards for the fastest male and female overall (Santon and Dillon) and in age categories 14 and under, 15-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-

try it out here,” organizers said. This is a free event, with free parking, light refreshments, good acoustics, a PA system, a piano and a forgiving audience. Donations are welcome to support the Schuyler Lake Food Pantry. “September 26 provides a veritable treasure trove of famous birthdays: Saint Francis of Assisi, Olivia Newton-John, T.S. Eliot, Marty Robbins, and the great George Gershwin,” the press release reads. “Come celebrate! Extra credit if you can do a mashup of “El Paso,” “Have You Never Been Mellow,” “Summertime” and “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock.” Photo by Chris McShane

Dahlia Sheehan-Yassin of Cooperstown crosses the finish line at Muddy River Farm Brewery.

73. Other award winners included youngest finisher (5-year-old Julianna Sellitti of Sidney Center), oldest finisher (73-year-old Dale Fox of Bainbridge) and most colorful (Kali Angell of Otego, who wore a pink and teal 80s tracksuit). Fourteen-year-old Silas Treffeisen of Mount Upton narrowly beat out Benny Schaffer as the finisher who collected the most recycling and trash. Full race results are available on the Sidney Brew-to-Brew 5K page at RunSignUp. com: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Sidney/ SidneyBrewToBrew5K. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Sidney Center-based nonprofit the Uplift Collective.

Rummage Sale Starts Thursday RICHFIELD SPRINGS—The Church of Christ Uniting, 22 Church Street, will host a rummage sale on Thursday, September 24 from 5-7 p.m. and Friday, September 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a bag sale from 3-4 p.m. on Friday at $2.00 per bag or $10.00 for unlimited items. Two large rooms will be filled with clothes for men, women, children, and infants, as well as housewares, books, toys and much more—all at affordable prices, officials said. For more information, call Church of Christ Uniting at (315) 858-1553.

Women’s Fellowship Hosts Sale COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Presbyterian Church Women’s Fellowship will host a rummage sale on Thursday, September 24 and Friday, September 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday, September 26 from 9-11 a.m. The sale will feature used and some new clothes, shoes, kitchen items, bedding, toys, books, jewelry, Christmas items, and more. All sales are by donation. Profits will be used for the church, local charities and broader needs. There is no admission fee and shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags. The sale will be held in the Cooperstown Presbyterian Chapel, at the corner of Elm and Pioneer streets. For more information, call (607) 547-8401.

String Orchestra To Perform STAMFORD— Friends of Music of Stamford will host “Pegasus: The Orchestra” on Sunday, September 27 at 3 p.m. The intimate 12-piece string-orchestra program features works by Haydn, Bach, Britten, Azarashvili. Concertmaster Ruggero Allifranchini, principal oboist Noah Kay and principal cellist Ari Evan appear as soloists. Admission is by donation at the door; the suggested donation is $15.00 per person, or $10.00 for seniors and students. There is no charge for those under age 13. Cash or check only; no reservations or advance sales. This event takes place at the First Presbyterian Church, 96 Main Street, Stamford. To learn more, visit https://friendsmusic.org/.

Contradance Set for October 2 FLY CREEK—Otsego Dance Society will hold a contradance on Friday, October 2 at the Cornfield Hall, located on County Route 26 in Fly Creek. Music will be by Contrasonics and Robby Poulette will be the caller. Contrasonics is a familiar local band from the Springfield area, organizers said. Members are Kathy Shimberg, playing piano and keyboard, and fiddlers Erik House and John Potocnik. The trio has been playing area contradances for more than 50 years. Poulette has been calling at a variety of dances in the Cooperstown area since a student at Hartwick College. He has a friendly and easy-going calling style and his teaching ability helps new dancers feel comfortable. Contradancing is a lively style of dance done to live music, fun for singles, couples and families of all ages. No experience is needed, as the caller teaches each dance. Beginners can arrive at 7:15 p.m., when there will be a short introduction to some basic steps. Dancing begins at 7:30 p.m. and continues until 10:30 p.m., with a short break halfway through for some light refreshments. Suggested donation is $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for students and teenagers, and free for children 12 and under, with a maximum of $25.00 per family. For more information, call (607) 435-8585 or (607) 547-8164, or visit www. otsegodancesociety.weebly.com.

Coffee House, Open Mic Slated SCHUYLER LAKE—The Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church Coffee House and Open Mic, now in its eleventh year, continues its monthly schedule on Saturday, September 26 at 7 p.m. at the church, 128 Church Street, Schuyler Lake. All types of performance and performers are welcome—music, banjo playing, stories, legal briefs, poems, dance, jokes. “If you can do it in 10-15 minutes, you can

Art Garage Holds Free Talk COOPERSTOWN—Artist Marylynn Karp of Charlotteville and New York City, joined by Robert Seward of Bowerstown, will discuss her art pieces on Thursday, September 24 at 5 p.m. at The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road. The gallery will open at 4:30 p.m. The program—offered in conjunction with the current two-person exhibit, “Surprising Unions”—is free. Seating is limited and reservations are highly recommended by e-mailing leartgarage@gmail.com or texting (315) 941-9607. To ensure public safety, parking is on the gallery grounds, not on the town road. In “Surprising Unions,” Karp’s pedestal works are displayed with complex wall assemblages by Matjames Metson, whose work has garnered considerable attention and has been displayed in galleries and museums in Los Angeles and New Orleans. His building blocks include wooden match sticks and Popsicle sticks. An art historian as well as an artist, Karp is the director of the Museum of History of Charlotteville and taught at New York University for 42 years, where she is professor emeritus. She is best known for a body of work that is based on accretion/accumulation of small, manufactured objects in combination with natural materials such as seeds and hives, creating unexpected unity. The exhibition will be on display Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October. 17, and every day with a text or call. On Friday, October 2 at 4 p.m., Metson will discuss his art, interviewed by Karp. For periodic Art Garage updates, visit @CooperstownArtGarage on Facebook and Instagram.

Fall Craft Fair Scheduled RICHFIELD SPRINGS—The Cullen Pumpkin Farm, 587 Cullen Road, will host a Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event, now in its sixth year, is coordinated by and will benefit the Women’s Guild of the Church of Christ Uniting, Richfield Springs. Upwards of 70 crafters from near and far are expected, showcasing a wide variety of handcrafted items, and the Richfield Youth Sports organization will return with its food booth. Neither pets nor smoking are allowed, due to Cullen Pumpkin Farm regulations. The application deadline is Thursday, October 1. Crafters can e-mail fallcraftfair@yahoo.com for space availability after the application deadline.

GOHS To Hold Annual Dinner ONEONTA—The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will hold its Annual Dinner and Meeting fundraiser on Wednesday, October 14 from 5:30-8 p.m. at Toscana Northern Italian Grill, 76 Chestnut Street. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets for the dinner are available for $60.00 for GOHS members and $65.00 for non-GOHS members, and will include tabled appetizers, a plated salad, a choice of an entrée, dessert, and soda and/or coffee. One complimentary house beer or red or white wine will also be included in the ticket price. A cash bar will be available for additional beer, wine and cocktails. This event is open to the public. To view the evening’s menu, visit https:// oneontahistory.org/events-programs/. The Annual Dinner also doubles as GOHS’s Annual Meeting. The meeting will be brief and will include voting on new trustees and officers for the GOHS Board, and the awarding of the 2026 Eduard Hofbauer Outstanding Service Award, Albert E. Morris Award, and John M. Pontius Award. Officials warn that tickets for this event are limited and sell quickly. Seats can be reserved by filling out a registration form, available at the History Center, 183 Main Street, and for download on the GOHS “Events & Programs” at www. oneontahistory.org. Completed registration form and payment can be submitted in person at the History Center and Museum or by mail to PO Box 814, Oneonta, NY 13820. The deadline for registration is Friday, October 9. Any dietary restrictions should be noted on the registration form. Questions can be directed to the History Center at (607) 432-0960 or to Marcela at directormm@oneontahistory.org).

Masterworks Gallery Opens COOPERSTOWN—Fenimore Art Museum’s new American Masterworks Gallery, a reimagined, state-of-the-art exhibition space designed to showcase the museum’s collections, including the recently acquired American Masterworks Collection, will open to the public on Saturday, September 26. According to a press release, “In 2023 and 2024, a landmark gift from the Eugene V. and Clare E. Thaw Charitable Trust enhanced Fenimore Art Museum’s permanent collection. With a generous $33.8 million donation, the museum acquired 27 exceptional works, significantly deepening and broadening its holdings of American art.” Artists represented in Continued on page 11

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Winners of Annual Cooperstown Beautification Contest Announced COOPERSTOWN ane Forbes Clark, president of The Clark Foundation, has announced the winners of the 2026 Clark Foundation Cooperstown Beautification Contest. Held annually since 1954, village residential and business properties are judged on their horticultural beautification efforts in three categories: • Most Attractive Floral Display in a Business Setting. • Most Effective Overall Planting Which Enhances a Residential Property, As Seen from the Street. • Most Appropriate Residential or Business Window Box or Boxes and/or Hanging Basket or Baskets. There is a $1,000.00 award for First Place; $750.00 for Second Place; $500.00 for Third Place; and $400.00 for Honorable Mention for each category. “Over 70 years ago, my grandmother, Susan Vanderpoel Clark, founded the Cooperstown Beautification Contest to recognize the wonderful efforts so many Village residents take to make us look so beautiful and welcoming,” Clark said. She added, “She would be incredibly happy that the tradition she began continues.” This year’s Beautification Contest judges were Kris Ann Elario and Mary K. Hughes. Elario holds a degree in plant science and floriculture from SUNY Cobleskill.

Photos provided

The properties of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Scurry (left) and Steven Schmidt and Lisa Moffa (right) took top honors in Category II and Category III of this year’s Beautification Contest, respectively.

beautifully. The color palette is spot on, and the thoughtful use of materials reflects true expertise. Second: Cooper Country Crafts, Judy Curry, 6 Doubleday Court Judges’ Comments: Vibrant, healthy hanging baskets, complemented by the mixed flowers in the window boxes, creates a pretty, feminine display. Third: Metro Cleaners, Helmut Michelitsch, 115 Main Street Judges’ Comments: Multiple designs create an eye-catching display. Simple colors with multiple textures of plant material make the blue in the flags pop! Category 1 Honorable Mention (in alphabetical order): Norbu, Kunsang Tsering Gurung, 149 Main Street; Pioneer Patio, Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Kathryn Busse, 46 Pioneer Street; and Pioneer Sports Cards, Mark

Cider Mill Takes Top Spot for Best Cidery FLY CREEK—The Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard has been voted the Best Cidery in the United States in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, earning the historic Upstate New York destination its second number one national ranking in three years. Fly Creek was named America’s Best Cidery in 2024 and finished third nationally in 2025. The USA TODAY 10Best competition nominated leading cideries from across the country, with the final rankings determined by public voting, according to a press release. “To be recognized as America’s Best Cidery for the second time in three years is an extraordinary honor,” said owner Bill Michaels. “This recognition belongs to our dedicated staff and the generations of customers who have made Fly Creek part of their visits to the Cooperstown region. We are tremendously grateful to everyone who voted for us.” Located three miles from Cooperstown and built in 1856, the mill still produces cider using its historic 1889 Boomer & Boschert rack-and-cloth press powered by water from the millpond. A 1872 water turbine harnesses a 10-foot head of water to operate the historic equipment.

Wolpert, 106 Main Street. Category II: Most Effective Overall Planting Which Enhances a Residential Property, As Seen from the Street. First: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Scurry, 28 Lake Street Judges’ Comments: A classic design that is simple and pleasing to the eye, with thoughtful plants chosen for the urns. Second: Dr. Jose Raul Monzon and Dr. Bridget O’Mara, 108 Pioneer Street Judges’ Comments: A home and garden loved by its owner! Time and

thought went into the choice of materials and overall care for the front and side gardens. Third: Gwen Malone, 30 Leatherstocking Street Judges’ Comments: The pink pops throughout the front, while the wellmaintained side and back gardens continue the thoughtful designs. Love how the blue from the front door is carried throughout the yard with different design elements. Category II: Honorable Mention (in alphabetical order): Torrence Dutcher and Dr. Elizabeth Redd, 42 Delaware Street; Jessie Ravage, 34 Delaware

Cherry Valley 2026

Kite Festival Kites, Food & Fun in Beautiful & Historic CherrY Valley ! Saturday, September 26

Sunday, September 27

9:00 AM Kid’s Kite Building Workshop FREE!

7:00–11:00 AM Pancake Breakfast

Cherry Valley Firehouse

Old School Gym, Genesee Street 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

All Day Outdoor Fly Campbell Road $5.00 Admission, Children under 10 free Includes Parking (accessible parking available) CHERRY

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She is the owner of Fleurtacious Designs in Latham, which specializes in wedding and event floral design, creating bespoke floral designs for the Capital Region and beyond for more than 20 years. Hughes is a graduate of SUNY Cobleskill with a degree in horticulture. She is the owner of Home Grown Perennials, a garden design and maintenance business based in Columbia County that curates and maintains the heirloom gardens at the Olana and Clermont historic sites. Beautification Contest award winners for 2026 are: Category I: Most Attractive Floral Display in a Business Setting. First: The Inn at Cooperstown, 16 Chestnut Street LLC, 16 Chestnut Street Judges’ Comments: The planters and hanging baskets complement the building

Street; and Julia Signitzer, 57 Lake Street Category III: Most Appropriate Residential or Business Window Box or Boxes and/or Hanging Basket or Baskets First: Steven Schmidt and Lisa Moffa, 6 Elk Street Judges’ Comments: Great color choices, with a thoughtful secondary color triad that catches your eye from the street. Everything was planted beautifully and cared for. Second: Louis Allstadt and Melinda Hardin, 18 Main Street Judges’ Comments: A simple, classic style with thoughtful use of texture and color that complements the brick home beautifully. Third: Penney Gentile, 20 Nelson Avenue Judges’ Comments: Classic plantings complement the home beautifully with the chosen colors. Lush and well cared for. Category III: Honorable Mention (in alphabetical order): Mr. and Mrs. Allan and Elizabeth Burgess, 77 Beaver Street; Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Barbara Havlik, 94 Fair Street; and Mr. and Mrs. Martin and Meg Tillapaugh, 24 Pioneer Street

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Bassett

Continued from page 1 was celebrated during the benefit dinner. While the event raised funds, speakers repeatedly stressed that the evening represented something far larger: an investment in the health, education and future success of thousands of local children. Staci Thompson, president and chief executive officer of Bassett Healthcare Network, told attendees that the program embodies the healthcare organization’s mission. “Every effort we make across the health system is rooted in this incredible mission, but few programs capture its essence as deeply as our school-based health programs,” Thompson said. “Most importantly, we’re building new generations.” The numbers behind that mission are extraordinary. Between the fall of 2025 and spring of 2026, the program tallied approximately 40,000 visits, including more than 22,000 medical visits, more than 13,000 mental health visits, and thousands more addressing dental and other healthcare needs. More than 7,000 students are currently enrolled in the program. No one has had a larger role in the program’s growth than Jane Hamilton, RN, manager of Bassett’s SchoolBased Health Program. Colleagues throughout the evening highlighted Hamilton’s decades-long commitment to building and expanding the initiative, which is preparing to open its 23rd schoolbased health center. Hamilton described a model that goes far beyond traditional healthcare delivery. “We should have a goal of doing what’s best for the kids,” Hamilton said. “We work hard and education and health organizations together.” That collaborative approach has allowed the program to become deeply integrated within the schools and communities it serves. According to Hamilton, strong partnerships with school districts have been essential to the program’s success. “It’s actually better than a doctor’s office,” she said. The school-based centers provide students with medical care, dental services, mental health counseling, and

preventative healthcare in a setting they already know and trust. “These are fully selfcontained health clinics nested within the school, where the kids get not only medical health, but dental and mental health as well,” said Dr. William Fredette, codirector of the program and medical director of Fox Pediatrics. Fredette, who also practices in a traditional pediatric setting, said the school-based model removes barriers that often prevent rural families from accessing care. “Every pediatrician needs to see this, because some of the things that happen for these kids in a school day, I have to move mountains to make happen for patients in the community,” he said. “Some of the things that happen for these kids in a school day is, I have to move mountains to make happen for patients in the community.” “What a privilege it is to be able to have a child come to you,” Fredette added. “Especially one who’s having a mental health crisis or something like that. Within minutes, I can set them up with somebody one door down.” Simply put, Fredette said, “It’s an incredible model.” The impact reaches not just students, but also their families. “Forty thousand times, kids didn’t have to leave school. Forty thousand times, your parents didn’t have to take a day off,” Fredette said. “That’s a huge amount of care.” Hamilton said the benefits extend beyond healthcare alone, helping create a safe and supportive environment where students can receive assistance when they need it most. “School is a safe place for kids. They’re warm, they’re safe, they’re cared for,” she said. Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized that Bassett’s School-Based Health Program’s success stems from a simple philosophy: putting children first. Whether that means helping a student receive dental care, connecting a child with mental health services or ensuring preventative care is available close to home, every decision is guided by what best serves young people and their families, officials said. Maintaining and growing that work, however, requires continued community support. While

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Bassett has remained committed to the initiative for decades, organizers acknowledged that funding remains an ongoing challenge. “The dream is someday, you get a solid stream of revenue, and you can concentrate just on giving the kids what they need,” Fredette said. “Events like this have to happen for us to be able to continue even next week.” Hamilton echoed that appreciation for the support the program continues to receive. “We know that there’s a lot of competing priorities at Bassett and we’re grateful that Bassett is seeing this as one,” she said. That reality underscored the importance of Friday’s benefit dinner. While a single fundraiser may appear small compared to a program serving thousands of children across four counties, supporters said events like this are a critical part of ensuring that care remains available, accessible and responsive to the needs of local families. As the program continues to grow and new schoolbased health centers come online, community support remains a key part of sustaining that momentum. As the evening concluded, Hamilton thanked attendees for helping make that work possible. “Thank you for supporting school-based health. It’s truly to make a difference,” she said. Then, in a sentiment that captured the focus of the program’s mission and the purpose of the evening itself, Hamilton offered one final reminder: “What we do comes back to the child.”

Science

Continued from page 4 accumulate at the edges of a room, lots of “other stuff” tends to gather at the edges of a star’s system. Around our Sun, we’ve named the Kuiper Belt as the region of space beyond Neptune’s orbit. It’s not quite as flat as the rest of the Solar System (Remember how I mentioned that Pluto’s orbit is tilted quite a bit? Same with many of the objects in the Kuiper Belt. Astronomers therefore think of the Kuiper Belt as being “doughnutshaped.”), and it is home turf to lots of …stuff. The dwarf planets, yes, but also some comets and perhaps millions of other rocky asteroids and space rocks. This region of space is so far away and (most importantly) so dim and cold that seeing

or characterizing these objects is extremely difficult. We simply do not have a census or even much of a tally of objects out here like we do for the Asteroid Belt. If you’re wondering why not, remember that objects in space have to give off light in order to be seen by telescopes. Planets and even nearby asteroids can reflect enough of the Sun’s light for astronomers to see them, but in addition they also are close enough that their motion is readily detectable. Space is big, and while it’s mostly empty in the in-between regions, there’s also a lot of stuff out there. There’s so much more to explore! NASA’s website hosts a multitude of resources for learning more, at https://science.nasa. gov/dwarf-planets/; https://science.nasa.gov/ solar-system/moons/; https://science.nasa.gov/ dwarf-planets/pluto/; and https://science.nasa. gov/solar-system/kuiperbelt/. Trisha Muro is a freelance science writer specializing in physics and astronomy and, although she’s never worked for NASA, she’s been a space nerd for as long as she can remember. Her first book, “It’s (Just) Rocket Science,” was published this spring by Johns Hopkins University Press.

9E Plan

Continued from page 1 ress since where we were at the meeting a year ago,” McKenna said. Among the accomplishments highlighted were completion of the first three major sections of the 9E plan, including watershed characterization, establishment of community goals and priorities, and an assessment of environmental regulations across municipalities in the watershed. Presenters said the review identified opportunities for greater consistency among local governments managing shared water resources, including the Village of Cooperstown and the towns of Otsego, Middlefield, and Springfield. The evening’s technical presentation was delivered by consultants Dr. Wendy Melnyk and Radyha Adityavarman of Anchor QEA, who explained that the 9E planning process has relied heavily on both scientific analysis and public engagement. “We tried to really hear from a diverse representation of the community,” Melnyk said. “What are your concerns? What are your values? What are the things that you want

leWiS, HurleY & pietrobono

to see in the lake and watershed?” Drawing on decades of monitoring data, some dating back to the 1960s, researchers developed models to evaluate how climate change and management decisions could affect the watershed in coming decades. According to the modeling presented at the meeting, climate change alone could increase nitrogen loading by about 2 percent, phosphorus by roughly 5 percent and sediment by approximately 20 percent if no additional actions are taken. The analysis also suggested that targeted conservation efforts could offset many of those increases. Agricultural best management practices resulted in projected reductions in nutrient loading that exceeded anticipated climatedriven increases, though sediment remains a continuing challenge. Researchers reported that phosphorus entering the watershed comes from several sources. Approximately 49 percent originates from natural sources such as forests, wetlands, streambanks, and streambeds, while agriculture contributes about 40 percent and developed land about 11 percent. Scientists noted that streambank erosion is among the largest individual contributors of phosphorus and sediment entering the lake. Despite future concerns, consultants reported that Otsego Lake remains in strong condition today. Measurements of phosphorus and chlorophyll remain below recreational guidance levels, while water clarity remains high. Data presented during the meeting showed average Secchi disk readings of roughly 21 feet, indicating clean, clear water with low nutrient pollution. “The understanding is that these trends become important as we look into the future and then try to ensure that things don’t get worse than they are and we retain the conditions that we have,” Melnyk said. The presentation also highlighted emerging concerns, among them harmful algal blooms, invasive species and increasing chloride concentrations associated with road salt use. Consultants explained that multiple factors, including nutrient levels, warming temperatures and invasive mussel populations, influence harmful algal blooms. Meanwhile, invasive species prevention efforts continue to focus on monitoring, education and boat decontamina-

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tion programs. Road salt generated significant discussion among attendees. Presenters reported that chloride levels in the watershed are trending upward, though concentrations remain below thresholds considered immediately concerning. Municipal projects such as covered salt storage facilities and improved application technologies were highlighted as methods for reducing impacts while maintaining road safety. The meeting concluded with a review of 27 proposed best management practices covering such focus areas as agriculture, shoreline protection, septic systems, stream restoration, invasive species management, scientific monitoring and public education. Residents were invited to provide feedback on which practices should receive the highest priority moving forward. As the 9E project enters its next phase, consultants said the focus has shifted from identifying challenges to developing a path forward. “So where we’re at now is this fourth step, which is, ‘How do we get there?’ So how do we create the roadmap to get to where we want to be?” Melnyk said. Implementing that roadmap will require continued participation from across the watershed. “Those collaborations, that’s how we get things done, right?” Melnyk said. “We need all of you active and engaged or participating to really achieve the vision that you all set.” McKenna agreed, noting both the challenges and opportunities ahead. “Money is important, for some stuff, it turns out,” she joked while discussing grant administration and project implementation. Later, reflecting on the cooperation that has emerged among watershed communities and organizations, McKenna added, “We’re turning into a team.” That spirit of collaboration ultimately emerged as the meeting’s central message, perhaps best captured by a saying McKenna shared with attendees: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

HUD Increases Flexibility, Lowers Barriers WASHINGTON,DC— The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment. The updated guidelines focus on three main areas: expanding the definition of obsolete buildings; barriers for small agencies; and relief for financially struggling properties. To learn more about these updates, visit www.hud.gov.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Letters

Continued from page 4 a success in two important ways. We are seeking event sponsors whose financial support will help offset the costs of hosting the Mix & Mingle, allowing more of the money raised that evening to support our work in the community. We are also seeking donations for our silent auction, including tangible items, gift certificates, experiences, artwork, merchandise, services, and other offerings that will make the auction fun and successful. The impact of that generosity reaches directly into our community. In 2025 alone, the Angel Network provided holiday gifts for more than 100 local children, school supplies for 45 students, Thanksgiving meals for 20 families, and more than 200 gas and grocery cards. We also helped families with emergency needs such as heating oil, car repairs, rent, and utilities, while providing assistance that helps children participate in activities and opportunities alongside their peers. Whether you sponsor the event, contribute an item to the silent auction, or do both, your generosity helps us continue saying “yes” when a child or family in our community needs a little extra help. If you would like to contribute to the silent auction or are interested in learning more about sponsoring the Mix & Mingle, please complete the Google Form at https://forms.gle/ VxS86f5AjBgKzZnM9. If you indicate an interest in sponsorship, a member of the Angel Network will follow up with you personally with additional information. If you have questions,

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9

please reach out to Shelby MacLeish, event chair, at (607) 601-8259 or via email at macleishshelby@ gmail.com Thank you for being part of a community that looks out for its neighbors and for helping the Angel Network continue this work throughout the Cooperstown Central School District. Shelby MacLeish Event Chair and Secretary Angel Network of Cooperstown

Hartwick Is Not For Sale, Bryan This week’s article about the Article 78 legal challenge represents an individual obstructing the governance of Hartwick for his own personal gain (“Hartwick Town Councilman Files Article 78 Petition Challenge against Town Supervisor,” September 17, 2026). Mr. LoRusso has bought up undervalued properties around Hartwick and taken advantage of our legal system to put the tools of the town into his service,

and to discredit all he cannot control. Hartwick has a history of questionable highway superintendents. One left at the same time as the former town clerk under questionable circumstances. Mr. LoRusso funded the campaign of the current highway superintendent, printing cards and signs, and the roads have never looked better under his supervision, a good choice! In my 40 years living here, Hartwick has never had more local road work done in a season; this summer much of that supporting Mr. LoRusso’s properties. Nothing illegal, just a point of fact. At the last election, Mr. LoRusso supported a discredited former clerk for a position on the town board but she lost, and now she is the assistant to his town board seat (a new position?), with access to the town records by the divine right of kings. Mr. LoRusso himself ran to be town supervisor but was defeated by the former supervisor—a longtime local

resident that I first came to know when I was EMS medical director of Otsego County some 20 years ago—but after a year into his second term, he left under pressure without a forwarding address. Then, the town attorney and bookkeeper also quit. After defeat, at the next election Mr. LoRusso did secure a seat on the town board and other members of the board exited, as did the six-year water commissioner, and Mr. LoRusso installed his men. Now, with his leadership, hammering in a nail requires a posted public bid and town board meetings have become interminable exercises in legal minutiae. Mr. LoRusso pressed for a write-in of Ola Hawatme as his own Republican challenger to Antonio Delgado’s last run for NY-19, and he

continued the write-in campaign after Otsego County Republicans rejected her. Interestingly, in this election cycle, she just lost a primary for the Florida-19, Byron Donalds’ former seat. Nice work, Ola! In the vein of truth and reality, this Article 78 challenge is just another attempt to put sand in the gears of the town, with the help of the current town clerk actively slowwalking town business to discredit the supervisor, her opponent in the last election. At the first town meeting this year, police were summoned to permit the legally-elected supervisor to lead the meeting. Mr. LoRusso is an expert in legal shenanigans:

see LoRusso vs DEC, ART.78. Hartwick is not for sale! “The Freeman’s Journal” should not function as a partner in a local hijacking of democracy in service of a king, albeit with gold trappings, bread and circuses! Lee Robbins MD, Medical Officer, Town of Hartwick, and EMS Medical Director, Otsego County, 1988-2002 Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, the Town of Hartwick has been in disarray since fall 2024 and the filing of an Article 78 by any town councilmember against that town’s supervisor is newsworthy.

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A-10 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Legal

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Government Asset Group LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on August 11, 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. 6LegalSept.24 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Main Street 096 LLC filed with the Secretary of State on April 02, 2026. Office Location is in Otsego County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to P.O Box 431, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalSept.24 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company Unadilla River Retreat, LLC has been formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), with an office in Greenfield Park, New York by filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 16, 2026. SSNY is designated as the agent for the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY will mail a copy of any process against it served upon him or her to Post Office Box 714 Napanoch, New York 12458. The purpose is to engage in any lawful business practice. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of

LEGALS

Legal

13820. Purpose: all lawful activities. 6LegalOct.1

155 Peebles Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.1

GAGE, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC, Plaintiff, against

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: JM PROPERTY HOMES LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 18 August 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 4836 St. Hwy. 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of O’NEILL’S PROPERTY AND MANAGEMENT LLC. Filed 5/29/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Lmbm Llc, 380 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of THE SOUTHSIDE BUNGALOW LLC. Filed 7/29/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 232 Southside Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of INDIGO & OAK LLC. Filed 7/27/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 232 Southside Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.1

D&M Mobile Crushing and Recycling LLC,

Legal nOtice

Arts. Of Org. filed with SSNY August 20, 2026. Off. Loc. Otsego. SSNY designated as agent of LLC on whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 7 Richard Ave., Oneonta, NY

Notice of Formation of HOLSCHER CONSTRUCTION LLC. Filed 3/16/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to:

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of THE HOLSCHER GROUP LLC. Filed 3/16/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 155 Peebles Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Oneonta Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 8/19/26. Office location: Otsego County. Sec. of State designated agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 1218 Central Ave., Ste. 100, Albany, NY 12205. Purpose: practice the profession of dentistry. 6LegalOct.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: CAMP HAWKEYE LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 20 August 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 50 W. 85th St., Apt. 13, New York, NY 10024. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalOct.8 Legal nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO INDEX NO. EF2025-1083 Date Filed: 08/04/2026 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates OTSEGO County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is: The location of real property being foreclosed. ROCKET MORT-

DARREN C. SITTS, AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF BERNIE A. SITTS, JR. A/K/A BERNIE ALBERT SITTS, JR.; JAMES C. SITTS, AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF BERNIE A. SITTS, JR. A/K/A BERNIE ALBERT SITTS, JR.; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF BERNIE A. SITTS, JR. A/K/A BERNIE ALBERT SITTS, JR., if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-atlaw, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, and JOHN DOE No. 1’’ through ‘’JOHN DOE No. 100’’ inclusive, the name of the last 100 defendants being fictitious, the true names of said defendants being unknown to plaintiff, it being intended to designate fee owners, tenants or occupants of the liened premises and/or persons or parties having or claiming an interest in or a lien upon the liened premises, if the aforesaid individual defendants are living, and if any or all of said individual defendants be dead, their heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, committees, devisees, legatees, and assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest of them and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, through, or against the said defendants named as a class, of any right, title, or interest in or lien upon the premises described in the complaint herein Defendant(s). To the above named Defendants: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED 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

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Legal

on the plaintiff’s attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

December 12, 2023, in Instrument Number: 2023-5149. Said premises being known as and by 699 Crawford Road, Laurens, NY 13796, bearing tax map designation Section: 255.00, Block: 2, Lot: 12.02, which is more fully described in the Schedule “A” attached to the Complaint.

be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to the LLC, 1409 Cty. Hwy. 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.15

the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 17 Suncrest Terrace, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act. 6LegalOct.22

widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICEDEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY; SIDNEY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION,

NOTICE: YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Brian D Burns, a Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Otsego County, granted on the 9th day of June, 2026, and filed with the Complaint and other papers in the office of the County Clerk of Otsego County. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by BERNIE A. SITTS, JR. to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC, FKA QUICKEN LOANS, LLC, bearing date November 12, 2021 and recorded in Instrument Number: 2021-6409 in the County of Otsego on November 17, 2021, which was assigned to ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC, FKA QUICKEN LOANS, LLC by instrument executed December 11, 2023 and recorded

Aldridge Pite, LLP, Attorneys for the Plaintiff, 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 File 1271-1658B 4LegalSept.24 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name:

Legal nOtice Notice of formation of NETWISE SOLUTIONS LLC. Filed 8/21/26. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Daniel Decker, 204 Hillside Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: General. 6LegalOct.15 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of

HONEY JOE RANCH LLC.

ROMPIN’ RON LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 25 August 2026. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 185 Honey Joe Road, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalOct.8

Filed with SSNY on 07/10/2026. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 31 RIVER ST., COOPERSTOWN, NY 13326. Purpose: Any Lawful 6LegalOct.15

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Northy Green LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on September 01, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 3664 Co. Hwy. 35, Roseboom, NY 13450. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 6LegalOct.15 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY NAME: LifeCycles Healing LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 22, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may

Legal nOtice Notice of formation of KnappLuck Ventures LLC Filed: 8/29/26 Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 210 Co. Hwy. 47, Oneonta, NY 13820 Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.22 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Chickadee Trail Horse Farm, LLC. Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 28, 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 3159 State Highway 80, Burlington Flats, NY 13315. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.22 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Webb Hill, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 08/25/2026. The office of

Legal nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO INDEX NO. EF2026-469 Plaintiff designates OTSEGO as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 142 EAST STREET, ONEONTA, NY 13820 Section: 288.10, Block: 2, Lot: 65 USAA FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK Plaintiff, vs. ABIGAIL MICHELSON KING, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DENISE MICHELSON; JOSHUA CHARLES KING, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DENISE MICHELSON; CHARLES J. KING JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DENISE MICHELSON; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DENISE MICHELSON, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands,

“JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $125,000.00 and interest, recorded on November 26, 2007, in in Liber 1539 at Page 1077, of the Public Records of OTSEGO County, New York, covering premises known as 142 EAST STREET, ONEONTA, NY 13820. The relief sought continued pg. 11

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

Green

Continued from page 5 We react with urgency and share, share, share. “It works because we’re human,” said Green, a reporter for WTOP radio in Washington, D.C. “A field manual for the information battlefield,” Green’s book gives readers a methodical framework for identifying disinformation and stopping the spread. Here’s what he recommends: • Verify claims by checking research hubs like Snopes, PolitiFact and FactCheck.org. • Find the original source of the information and ask if the source is credible. • Avoid endless scrolling. • Be suspicious of shocking posts that provoke extreme emotion and ask: Who benefits if I believe this? Who loses? We shake our heads at what some people believe to be true, but we’re all potential marks for lies and disinformation. The Secret Service last year uncovered clandestine telecom networks capable of spamming the whole country in a matter of minutes, Green said. In the book, he cites “Pizza-Gate,” the conspiracy theory that top Democratic officials were running a childtrafficking ring out of a D.C. pizza restaurant. “By the time credible journalists began to debunk the story, the damage was done,” Green wrote, noting that a misled North Carolina man traveled to the restaurant with an automatic rifle and fired shots before he was arrested. Consuming disinformation and spreading it plays right into the hands of those who want to keep Americans divided and thirsty for clickbait, Green said. They target our need to feel superior and correct. Believing only what you hear on selected highly politicized channels is bad. But without a shared source of truth, something even worse could come next, he said. “After a while, disinformation makes you doubt everything,” Green said. “Truth is a muscle that must be exercised.”

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from pg. 10 within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. OTSEGO County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-11

His case in point: When a would-be assassin barged through the security gates at this year’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Green said too many people reached out to him asking a bizarre question: Did that really happen? Why would so many people—doctors, lawyers and university professors among them— imagine something at that scale could have been stagecraft? At this discouraging moment in history, it can be tempting to disengage. But Green recommended the opposite to the Cooperstown audience of about 100. Broaden your sources of news and keep reaching out, with respect, to those who don’t agree with you. Stay in the game, stay vigilant and engage with your community, he said. Support voter registration, nonpartisan political forums and groups like the League of Women Voters. “Democracy,” Green said, “is not a spectator sport.”

Briefs

Continued from page 6 this group are Albert Bierstadt, Mary Cassatt, William Merritt Chase, Frederic Edwin Church, Childe Hassam, Martin Johnson Heade, Robert Henri, George Inness, Eastman Johnson, Thomas Moran, Georgia O’Keeffe, John Singer Sargent, Max Weber, and James McNeill Whistler, among others. Paul D’Ambrosio, FAM’s president and chief executive officer, has led the project and shaped the vision of the American Masterworks Gallery. He said, “For the first time we will have a gallery that shows the broad story of American art from 1800-1930, mixing fine art, folk art, and Native American art. It will be a way for visitors to see who we are as a museum and these collections that are unique to us.” This labor of love is a culmination of Dr. D’Ambrosio’s career, officials said, as his

retirement—previously announced in November 2025—will officially take place on September 27. As president emeritus, D’Ambrosio will have continued involvement with the museum and the American Masterworks Gallery. Fenimore Art Museum is open through December 31, Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.fenimoreart.org or at the door.

Isaacson Book Topic of Talk COOPERSTOWN— The Village Library of Cooperstown and the League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area will host a reading and discussion of Walter Isaacson’s best-selling book, “The Greatest Sentence Ever Written,” on Sunday, October 4 from 1-3 p.m. The book offers a short, engaging analysis of one of history’s most powerful statements: “We hold these truths to be self-

evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Isaacson’s book explores the wordfor-word revisions to Thomas Jefferson’s draft by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, as well as the history and philosophies that guided the nation’s founding fathers. The event is free and open to the public and will feature guest readers sharing excerpts from Isaacson’s work, followed by a discussion and question-and-answer session led by Zachary McKenney, professor of sociology at the Hartwick

Institute of Public Service, to help place these words in historical context. The event is cosponsored by LWVCA and the NAACP.

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

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:

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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.

Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346 Cooperstown, NY 13326

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YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

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EOE

LEGALS

Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalOct.8 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of

Dated: August 28th, 2026

ICE COLD REFRIGERATION AND APPLIANCE REPAIR LLC

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse,

Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 5, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom

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process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 3203 St. Hwy. 23, West Oneonta, NY 13861-6907 USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.22

of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 281 West Street Extension, Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.29

County. The Secretary of State is designated as agents of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to 4 Overlook Dr., Oneonta NY 138320. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalOct.29

nization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 14, 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 the LLC at 78 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalOct.29

Pine Creek Farm Services LLC

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of RULE VENTURES, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/14/26. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company, Highcrest Equestrian LLC filed with the Secretary of State on 8/13/26. Location: Otsego

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GLIMMERGLASS WINDOW CLEANING LLC Articles of orga-

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of

Articles of Organization were filed with the New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on June 1, 2026. Office Location: Otsego County. The SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to Pine Creek Farm Services LLC, 711 Co. Rd. 4, Unadilla, NY 13849. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalOct.29

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

Things To Do In and Around Otsego County _________

A-12 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

►Fri., Sept. 25 CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS—Open call for artists and writers to submit works for the upcoming exhibition, “Queer Joy.” Last day to submit is 10/5. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. jenny@ canoneonta.org. THE WALL THAT HEALS—All day. Threequarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and mobile education center visits Oneonta. Free and open to the public, 24 hours a day. On site through 2 p.m. on 9/27. Neahwa Park, 15 Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. FUNDRAISER—9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cooperstown Presbyterian Church Women’s Fellowship Rummage Sale. All sales by donation. Bring your own bags. Continues 9 -11 a.m. on 9/26. Cooperstown Presbyterian Chapel, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5478401 or (607) 643-3150. FUNDRAISER—9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rummage Sale. Clothing, housewares, books, toys and more. Bag sale at 3 p.m. Church of Christ Uniting, 22 Church Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-1553. YOGA—10 a.m. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309. STORYTIME—Noon. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0230. 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. INAUGURATION— 4 p.m. Hartwick College celebrates the inauguration of Laurel Bongiorno as its 13th president.

Under the tent on the Frisbee Field, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. QUILTING—5 p.m. “Friday Night Delights: Sew a Quilted Witch’s Hat.” A fun project that can be completed in one session. Series held the last Friday of each month. Fees apply; registration required. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 441-3111. KITE FESTIVAL—6 p.m. Kites, music, food and fun, featuring mini-kite building workshop for all ages, followed at 7 p.m. by an indoor kite fly. Old School Gym, Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3080. LIVE MUSIC— 6-10 p.m. Papa Muse. Includes food truck, outdoor/indoor bar and bonfire. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. info@ ommegang.com. GAMING—6-9 p.m. “Friday Night Magic.” Standard format. Free. Held each Friday. Good Games, 154 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 4318892. KIDS—6:30 p.m. Cub Scouts Informational Meeting. All boys and girls welcome. Elementary School Café, 21 Walnut Street, Cooperstown. PLANETARIUM— 7 p.m. “Planetary Nebula: Ghosts of the Cosmos.” Explore how planetary nebulae form and how astronomers are working to further their understanding of these cosmic phenomena through 3D models. For ages 10+. Open to the public. Fees apply; registration required. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 4362011. MUSIC—7:30 p.m. Hartwick Music Alumni Concert. Anderson Theater, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. RELEASE SHOW— 9:30 p.m.; doors open at 9 p.m. “Brotality: Jaws of the Earth.” Fees ap-

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Time OuT OTsegO Things To Do In and Around Otsego County

ply. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.

►Sat., Sept. 26 FREE FISHING DAY— All day. National Hunting and Fishing Day. Residents and non-residents aged 16+ are allowed to fish without a license. All other fishing regulations apply. otsegooutdoors. org/event/free-fishingday-4/ SATURDAY HIKE—All day. Scenic excursion with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring a packed lunch, snacks and water. Dress appropriately and bring equipment for the weather/trail conditions. Pre-registration required. This week’s hike will be the John Boyd Thacher State Park, 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville. (607) 431-8010. COIN SHOW—9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Otsego Numismatic Association Coin Show.” Find coin collectors and history buffs. Buy or sell. Free to attend. Wright/Wilber National Bank Atrium, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080. GOLF TOURNAMENT— 10 a.m.; registration at 9 a.m. “Annual Chilidipper Benefit Golf Tournament.” Fees apply; registration required. Prizes available. Raise funds for the Otsego County Wild Hogs Inc., an organization dedicated to honoring/supporting veterans, active military personnel and first responders. Otsego Golf Club, 144 Pro Shop Drive, Springfield Center. (607) 441-0061. VETERANS—10 a.m. Breakfast Meeting to Launch a Butternut Valley Veteran’s Club. American Legion Post 1339, 116 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 859-2717 or (607) 783-4045.

WORKSHOP— 10-11:30 a.m. “Beginner Pasta Making with Jen.” Fees apply; registration required. All materials provided. Main View Gallery and Studios, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890. KIDS—10 a.m. to noon. “Saturday STEM Club.” Oneonta Boys and Girls Club, 70 River Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1133. CRAFTING—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Intro to Knitting.” Presented by Shannon from Sybil’s Yarn Shop. Free; registration required. All materials provided. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980. BLACKSMITH WEEKEND—10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Demonstrations and activities for the whole family. Continues 9/27. Fenimore Farm and Country Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450. EXHIBIT—10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Janet Munro: A Life in Paint.” Solo exhibition running through 12/31. Featuring an artist’s reception from 2-5 p.m. on 10/17. Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471461. KITE FESTIVAL— 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 9 a.m. kids’ kite-building workshop. Kites, music, food and fun. Fees apply. Workshop held at Old School Gym, Genesee Street. Outdoor Kite Fly held at Campbell Road, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643080. PLANETARIUM—Family-friendly shows open to the public. Fees apply. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 436-2011. • 10:30 a.m. “Betelgeuse’s Galactic Vaca-

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

tion: An Alien’s Search for Planets.” • 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.” WORKSHOP—Noon to 1 p.m. “Kids Class! Make Your Own Slime.” Fees apply; registration required. All materials provided. Main View Gallery and Studios, 77 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1890. LATTES & LITERATURE—1-3 p.m. Discuss current readings with the group and get some book recommendations. Presented by the Morris Village Library. The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111. BALLET—1-3:30 p.m. Audition for a role in Fokine Ballet Company’s “The Nutcracker.” Decker School of Ballet, 140 Main Street, third floor, Oneonta. (607) 4326290. OPEN HOUSE— 2-3:30 p.m. Learn about the services at Woodside Hall adult home, including respite care and an adult social day program, and enjoy a performance by the Quigley Academy of Irish Dance. Woodside Hall, 1 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5470600. SUMMER’S END— 3 p.m. BBQ and Live Music. Potluck. Presented by the Oneonta Jiu Jitsu Academy at Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Road, Oneonta. (607) 4318882. COMMUNITY DINNER—4-6 p.m. BBQ Chicken Dinner. Also includes potato salad, baked beans, beverages and desert. Free. Church of Christ Uniting, 22 Church Street, Richfield Springs. OPENING RECEPTION—4-6 p.m. “The Four Seasons: Selections from the Yager Museum Collections.” Yager Museum of Art and Culture, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. (607) 4314480. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT— 5:30-8:30 p.m. Drop the kids off for fun fall activities. Fees apply; open to children ages 4-12. Oneonta World of Learning, 167 Youngs Road, Oneonta. (607) 431-8543. MOVIE NIGHT—6 p.m. “Outdoor Kids Movie and Bonfire Night.” Bring your own blanket/chairs; snacks provided. Cherry Valley Fish and Game Club, 362 Fish and Game Road, Cherry Valley. LIVE MUSIC— 6-9 p.m. “Summer Sundown Series Live Music: Scattered Flurries.” Northway Brewing Hop House, 709 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 2864030. OPEN MIC—7-9 p.m. “Coffee House.” Singers, writers, musicians and more are invited to share works. 10-20 minute slots. Light refreshments available. Free, open to the public. Held each 4th Saturday. Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church, 128 Church Street, Schuyler Lake. (315) 8582523. CONCERT—7:30 p.m.; doors open at 6:30 p.m. “Concert I: American Legends.” The Catskill Symphony Orchestra performs music across three centuries by three visionary American composers. Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 2697501.

►Sun., Sept. 27 KITE FESTIVAL— 7-11 a.m. Pancake Breakfast. Cherry Valley Firehouse, 11 Railroad Avenue, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3080. PANCAKE BREAKFAST—8-11 a.m. Includes eggs, ham or sausage, beverage and all the pancakes you can eat. Fees apply. Held each Sunday

through 11/15. Unadilla Rod and Gun Club, 566 Butternut Road, Unadilla. (607) 316-5997. FESTIVAL—11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pine Lake Fall Fest. Celebrate the 55th anniversary of True Blue Weekend at Pine Lake. Includes food, music, games more. Open to the public. Hartwick College Pine Lake, 1894 Charlotte Creek Road, Oneonta. (607) 431-4520. FAMILY HIKE—1 p.m. Clark Tower Fall Hike. Join the Moms and Little Pathfinders Hiking Group for a relaxed hike on an easy trail. Clark Tower Trail, Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. LIVE MUSIC—1-3 p.m. “Sunday Sessions with Issac Hill.” The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111. HISTORICAL SOCIETY—2 p.m. “Look What We Found in a Long Forgotten Closet.” Minnie Beam and Shirley Wright share vintage clothes and other items they found, with associated history and stories. Come in vintage clothing and join the fun. Town of Maryland Historical Society in the AmVets Building, 25 Main Street, Schenevus. (607) 434-2177. LIVE MUSIC—3 p.m. “Pegasus: The Orchestra.” 12-piece string orchestra featuring works by Haydn, Bach and others. Admission by donation. Presented by the Friends of Music of Stamford at the First Presbyterian Church, 96 Main Street, Stamford. FOMAdmin@friendsmusic. org. COOPERSTOWN— 4-7 p.m. “Annual Community Harvest Supper.” Bring a dish to pass, tableware, beverages and spend time with neighbors at the block-long communal dining table. All welcome. Main Street between River and Fair Street, Cooperstown. MEDITATION— 4:30-6 p.m. The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111. DRUM CIRCLE— 5-7 p.m. “Cherry Valley Drum Circle and Potluck.” All welcome. Held at 5 p.m. on the fourth Sunday of the warm months. Presented by The Telegraph School and The Tepee. Held at the Cherry Valley Gazebo near the stop light, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3785.

►Mon., Sept. 28 BREAKFAST WITH THE BOARD—8-9 a.m. Casual meet and greet with Village of Cooperstown trustees to discuss local projects, agenda items, more. Includes coffee and donuts. All welcome. Held fourth Monday of each month. Village Board Room, Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. SENIOR MEALS—Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal MondayFriday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $11 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of beef stew with potatoes and vegetables, biscuits, and tropical fruits. (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. QUILTING—1-4 p.m. “Drop-in Quilting Class: Create a Mondo Bag, Part 1.” Continues with Part 2 on 10/12. Series held the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Fees apply. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 4413111.

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