The Freeman's Journal 10-01-26

COOP M IA

1808 BY

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Cooperstown’s offiCial newspaper

OUNDED

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founded in 1808

cHERRY vALLEY ART TRAIL AND FALLTOBERFEST THIS WEEKEND, page 2 VISIT www.ALLOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER/ONLINE Volume 218, No. 40

Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, October 1, 2026

BACK TO VICE! E SER TABLE-SID

School-Based Health Centers: More Than a Nurse’s Office, a Safety Net for Local ‘Kiddos’ By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

A -1782 607-432 q.com b brooksb

Newsstand Price $1

EDMESTON recent visit to Edmeston Central School, one of the first schools in the region to embrace schoolbased healthcare, offered a firsthand look at a program that has quietly transformed student health for more than three decades. Guided by Manager Jane Hamilton, Family Nurse Practitioner Denise Dye, Ambulatory Office Assistant Holly Bennett, Nurse Care Coordinator Brianna Dunham and other staff members, a tour of the facility revealed

that these centers are far more than the traditional school nurse’s office many people might imagine. Behind the doors is a fully functioning healthcare practice providing medical, behavioral health, dental, and care coordination services while maintaining close connections with students and families throughout their school careers. For more than 30 years, school-based health centers have been changing lives across the region by bringing healthcare directly to where students learn and grow. What began through the vision of pioneers including Continued on page 3

Village Making Investments in Future Infrastructure, Fire Services By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

COOPERSTOWN s village leaders continue planning for Cooperstown’s future, recent state investments in infrastructure and emergency services are helping lay the foundation for growth while strengthening key community resources. Among the most significant developments is a $500,000.00 state grant awarded to the Village of Cooperstown for water and sewer improvements along Upper Main Street. According to Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, the project will upgrade existing infrastructure by increasing sewer capacity, adding new manholes and improving connections to previously upgraded lines. The improvements are intended to address aging infrastructure while helping the village accommodate future housing development. “The project will provide upgraded water and sewer utilities to the village,” Tillapaugh said during an interview INSIDE

► LAKE Watershed comments due october 9, page 2

Photo by Ellen Pope

Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh recognizes the award of a $488,211.00 grant that will support the Cooperstown Fire Department, submitted by firefighter Victor Jones. From left: Tillapaugh, Chief Billy Smith, Victor Jones, Monica Carrascoso, Sheila Serbay, Chad Bellanger (hidden), Alicia Jones and Frank King (baseball hat).

with AllOtsego, noting the upgrades will “ensure a higher quality of infrastructure to accommodate expected increases in housing.” The village also recently secured $488,211.00 through New York State’s Volunteer Fire Infrastructure and Response Equipment (V-FIRE) Grant Program, funding that will support the Cooperstown Fire Department. Victor Jones, a Cooperstown firefighter and emergency services coordinator for Otsego County, submitted the grant application in June. Beyond infrastructure and public safety, Tillapaugh highlighted growing collaboration between the Village of Cooperstown and neighboring municipalities, particularly through watershed protection efforts surrounding Otsego Lake. Those relationships have continued to develop through work associated with the Otsego Lake Nine Element Watershed Management Plan and the Otsego Lake Watershed Supervisory Continued on page 8

Major’s Inn Quilt Show Features ‘Quilts of Freedom’

GILBERTSVILLE Because of her preference he thirtieth annual for hand-quilting, many of her Major’s Inn Quilt Show, quilts employ the technique of ► troopers endorse featuring 225 quilts, will English paper piecing, a method stalter for sheriff be held in Gilbertsville Friday of patchwork where fabric is page 2 through Sunday, October 2, 3, wrapped around shapes made and 4. Show hours will be from from thin cardboard or heavy ► berkson’s ARMY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and paper. The shapes are then escapades in germany, Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 4 hand-sewn together one at a page 4 p.m. on Sunday. time, resulting in an intricate This year’s featured quilter design. The paper or cardboard ► derosa ponders is Elizabeth Muscarella of is then removed. scientific data. Schenevus, a member of the “One Thanksgiving, my dear page 5 Gilbert Block Quilting Group friend Jannie Deweese intro► naacp annual picnic and a retired postmaster. duced me to English paper recap, page 5 “My mom taught me to piecing and I started a quilt that Photo by Teresa Winchester kept me occupied during lunch sew when I was 7. I made ► legal notices, page 7 small items and Halloween A quilt featuring an abstract rendering of the American flag is part of the breaks, doctors’ visits, karate Follow Breaking News On costumes. After I married, “Quilts of Freedom” collection at this year’s Major’s Inn Quilt show. meetings and anywhere I was I discovered quilting,” said Muscarella, who principally does able to hand-sew. It is my oldest work in progress and my most hand-quilting and machines the pieces together. ambitious quilt,” said Muscarella. Continued on page 8

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

SAVE FORInvited THE SEASON Public on Watershed Plan Recommendations to Comment R

ONEONTA A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

CTOBER 1 – DECEMBER 31, 2020

emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping the final plan, encouraging residents, prop OTSEGO COUNTY erty owners, and stakeholders to review the materials esidents interested in the future of Otsego and share their feedback. Lake and its surrounding watershed are being According to WSC officials, presentation mateencouraged to review recommendations from rials, a list of proposed best management practices the recently presented Otsego Lake Nine Element and public comment forms are being posted to Watershed Management Plan and submit public feed- the WSC’s section of the Village of Cooperstown back through Wednesday, October 9. website. Community members are encouraged to During a recent public forum, project consul- review the recommendations and submit comments tants and members of the Otsego Lake Watershed ? Kelly Edge All-Season ? Assurance All-Season ? Kelly Edgeby HT the October 9 deadline. Committee series of recom(inc. ROF & SCT) outlined? aKelly Edge All-Season Perf. ? Kelly Edge MT The 9E Plan serves as a comprehensive roadmap ? Supervisory Eagle Sport All-Season Family ? Kelly Winter Access ? mendations Winter Maxx 2 ? Kelly Edge AT aimed at protecting water quality for protecting Otsego Lake, the headwaters of C-Type ? Kelly Edge HP ? Kelly Safari TSR ? Winter Maxx SJ8 throughout the watershed. The proposed measures the Susquehanna River and the primary drinking focus on reducing nutrient runoff, sediment, road the spread of® orinvasive while ebate. Rebatessalt, paid byand Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard Visa® Prepaidspecies, Card. improving the overall resilience of the lake and its ATE ABOUT THE GOODYEAR 30-DAY PLEDGE † tributaries. Watershed Planning Consultant Jacob Gillette ? Kelly Edge All-Season ? Assurance All-Season ? Kelly Edge HT By JOSHUA

By JOSHUA YOUNGQUIST

™

water source for thousands of area residents. Recommendations presented during the forum address a range of watershed concerns, including stormwater management, shoreline protection, stream corridor restoration, agricultural best practices, invasive species control and long-term water quality monitoring. Officials say community input will help guide priorities as efforts move forward to preserve the health of Otsego Lake for future generations. Those interested in doing so can review the materials and submit comments at cooperstownny. gov/the-otsego-watershed-supervisory-committee/.

Troopers Endorse Stalter for County Sheriff

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OTSEGO COUNTY he Police Benevolent Association bate. Rebates paid by Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard® or Visa® Prepaid Card. 155 ERIE BLVD of the New York ATE ABOUT THE CANAJOHARIE GOODYEAR 30-DAY PLEDGE † State Troopers has offi, NY 13317 cially endorsed Michael FERS AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING518-673-5399 LOCATIONS: Stalter in his campaign THETIRESHOP.BIZ for Otsego County sheriff, citing Stalter’s experience and qualificah 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 Kevlar , Wrangler DuraTrac , Wrangler Fortitude HT (excluding C-Type), Wrangler TrailRunner AT , Eagle Exhilarate , WinterCommand , WinterCommand tions for the position. the Goodyear Credit Card of: Assurance All-Season, Eagle Sport All-Season Family (including ROF & SCT), Winter Maxx 2 and Winter Maxx SJ8. Get a $25 Prepaid Card with purchase or $50 Prepaid Card with elly Edge HP , Kelly Edge All-Season , Kelly Edge All-Season Performance and Kelly Winter Access . 155 ERIE BLVD c 'MDLA &AF= (=O .AJ= =9D=J c &G? -CA<<=J .AJ=K In an endorsement year 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 c .AJ= ,=H9AJ c ?JA;MDLMJ9D rcard is accepted. Registration, activation, acceptance, or use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Prepaid.AJ=K Card Agreement. Prepaid Cards will not have cash access and will announcement, the CANAJOHARIE , NY 13317 c &9OF 9F< !9J<=F .AJ=K c .AJ= @9AFK unused funds will forfeit k , 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; NYSTPBA stated that c .0 /.0 .AJ=K518-673-5399 c ,M::=J .J9;CK Credit Card offer. who are individual consumers with mailing addresses in the U.S. and.J9AD=J U.S. territories. Commercial fleets are not eligiblecfor ? these 9?K rebates. Not 9D= valid on previous combined with other backing Goodyear c -=EA .J9;LGJ purchases. Cannot beit was Stalter’s oodyear, and bonus portion of rebate offered by Citibank, N.A. Goodyear is not affiliated with Mastercard. Additional terms, conditions, and fees apply. See participating retailer for complete details and rebate forms. c GEHML=J 1@==D 9D9F;AF? (=L 1J9H THETIRESHOP.BIZ candidacy following nder license by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and affiliates. c .AJ= -=JNA;= ,=;9HHAF? c )AD @9F?=K careful consideration and r.com/en-US/tire-warranty/30-day-pledge. c !GG<Q=9J (9LAGF9D ;;GMFLK c MKLGE 1@==DK -L9L= GFLJ9;L *JA;AF? c MLG ;;=KKGJA=K expressed confidence in 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 his 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 $50ability Prepaid Card with to serve as the .AJ=K c #FL=JKL9L= 9LL=JA=K y Edge HP , Kelly Edge All-Season , Kelly&G9<=J Edge All-Season Performance and Kelly Winter Access . county’s next sheriff. 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 “The Police Benevo, 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 lent Association of the Credit Card offer. 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 York other Goodyear State Troopers New 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 details and rebate forms. Financing FARM TIRE Inc. is proud to announce Available der license by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and affiliates. OPEN MON. - SAT. 8-6 SERVICES com/en-US/tire-warranty/30-day-pledge. the endorsement of 155 Erie Blvd., Canajoharie, NY Michael Stalter for elec-

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Photo by Eric Santomauro-Stenzel

MICHAEL STALTER

tion for Otsego County sheriff,” the organization wrote in its statement. “The NYSTPBA is confident that Michael Stalter is the best candidate for Otsego County sheriff.” The NYSTPBA, headquartered in Albany, represents more than 7,000 active and retired uniformed members of the New York State Police, from the rank of trooper through major. Stalter said he was

pleased to receive the endorsement and highlighted the professional relationships he has built throughout his law enforcement career. “I am deeply honored to have received the endorsement from the New York State Police PBA,” Stalter said. “During my law enforcement career, I have had the opportunity to work with so many fine members of that organization.” Stalter said years of working in tandem with New York State Troopers helped establish both professional respect and personal friendships. “Working alongside them while protecting the people we serve led to a mutual respect as police officers and friends,” he said. “Teamwork, honor, and respect will

continue to be the hallmark of my career, and I look forward to this now growing relationship.” The endorsement adds support from one of the state’s largest law enforcement organizations as voters prepare to decide the race for Otsego County sheriff, with Stalter opposing sitting Sheriff Richard J. Devlin Jr. NYSTPBA officials said its endorsement reflects confidence in Stalter’s leadership and ability to serve the residents of Otsego County. Stalter defeated Devlin in the Republican primary in June by 190 votes—1,578 to 1,388. Devlin will run on the Conservative Party line against Stalter during the General Election next month.

EXPLORE CHERRY VALLEY cherryvalley.com Cherry Valley Combines Popular Community Events This Weekend CHERRY VALLEY n celebration of the fall season, on Saturday, October

3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cherry Valley will host the Fourth Annual Cherry Valley Art Trail

and the Second Annual FALLTOBERFEST, this year combined into one community-wide event.

Visitors can stop by local businesses— including Plaide Palette, 25 Main Collective, Cherry Valley Emporium, Pink Squirrel, and the Cherry Valley Bookstore—and take some time to enjoy the work of the participants of the Cherry Valley Art Trail, where artists will be on hand to discuss

their art. The day will also feature demonstrations, gallery shows and artists in their open studios. In the parking lot in the middle of town, vendors and food trucks will be gathered. Offering food there that day will be UR Main Squeeze and the Grillfather. Coffee and Crumb Café, 25 Main

First Friday (10/2): 25 Main Collective, 21 Main St. Opening Reception (5-8 pm) FEATURING: Featuring the work of artists taking part of the Cherry Valley Art Trail (Saturday October 3rd)

food by COFFEE & CRUMB Café

The Telegraph School, 83 Alden Street Open Mic (starting at 6 PM)

The Star Theatre, 44 Main Street The Rubber Band (7pm):

Red Shed Ale House, 10 Main Street Vinnie Rock and Steve Minnich Duo (7-9 pm):

www.cherryvalley.com

COFFEE & CRUMB Cafe

25 Main Street Cherry Valley, NY Thurs, Fri & Mon 7-4, Sat & Sun 8-4 @Coffee & Crumb on FB for updates

21 Main Street Cherry Valley, NY 25maincollective@gmail.com Wed 11-5, Thurs - Sun by chance & by appt.

Irish - Scottish - Welsh - British

Your Fall Decor Destination!

Plaide Palette

Wreaths, Ornaments Fall decor. Seasonal fresh florals and pumpkin arrangements.

Irish Sweaters and Capes - Hats Scarves - Incense - Jewelry Walking Sticks - Dragons - Spirit Balls Green Men, Tree-of-Life and more!

45 Main Street Cherry Valley NY 13320 607 264 3769 ghostlady607@gmail.com

Shop Local - follow us on

Family Owned and Operated Located on NY 165 in Roseboom

Cards, jewelry, glass art, wood items, pottery, textiles, fine art, and more

Gifts -Tea - Candy - Biscuits

Lots of rocks and crystals! Handmade Local Pottery Local Honey and Maple Syrup

Bob’s Country Store

Artists - Makers -Artisans

New gallery show every First Friday

Distinctive Flowers & GiFts

It’s Cozy Season! We Deliver! 607-264-3100

aroseisaroseflorist.com 17 Main Street, Cherry Valley

Street, and Red Shed Ale House, 10 Main Street, will be open for lunch. The stage is set up to provide live music from local favorite and Chervillian Mike Feulner and The Cajzh Farmers, a five-piece band from Cobleskill, throughout the day. There will also be performances by the Happy Haggs at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Throughout the day, ghost expert and Town Historian Sue Miller will lead three different Ghost Tour Hay Rides at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Riders will find out where the ghosts hang out at different historic homes and locations, as well as the cemetery, organizers said.

607.264.3007

Deli, Grocery, Beer, Gas. Local Products Including Coffee, Honey, Milk, Beef, Maple Syrup.

The Locals Place. Come check out our little Country Store, where we have a little bit of everything.

Shop LocaL! We cannot thank You enough For Your BuSineSS! Celebrating 76 Years

It’s the destination with something for everyone. Otsego County Landmark Since 1950 Native American Jewelry and Crafts, Minnetonka Moccasins, Jewelry, Clothing, Oils, Candles, Local Artists, Crafts, So Much More. Call for hours 607-264-3987 • www.thetepee.biz 7632 US Hwy 20 Cherry Valley NY

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

Bassett

Continued from page 1 Hamilton and Dr. Chris Kjolhede has evolved into a comprehensive network focused not only on treating illness, but on preventing problems before they become larger challenges. While exam rooms, dental equipment and counseling spaces make the centers look like traditional healthcare facilities, staff members say their greatest strength is their ability to form meaningful relationships with students. “They’re our kiddos,” Hamilton often says, using a term that reflects the personal approach shared by providers throughout the program. Unlike a traditional doctor’s office, where a child may only be seen once or twice each year, school-based healthcare providers often spend years with the same students, watching them grow from elementary school through graduation. “We do it all,” said Bennett, who has spent years working with students in local schools. Bennett said one of the most rewarding aspects of the job is seeing relationships develop over time. She recalled one student who arrived at the health center with a deep fear of medical and dental visits. “I get to see them for 13 years. We have that face-to-face relationship,” Bennett said. Bennett and her colleagues shared the story of the student, noting that simply getting her into the office was once a

challenge. “She wouldn’t go past this desk,” Bennett recalled, pointing toward the reception area. Rather than pushing the student beyond her comfort level, staff members took their time. Visit by visit, they introduced her to the office, the providers and the environment, allowing trust to develop naturally. “Little by little, we introduced her to the space and made her feel safe,” Bennett said. Years later, the transformation is remarkable. “Now, when it’s time for a shot or anything else, she waltzes in with a smile on her face,” Bennett and the other providers noted with a laugh. The story drew smiles from everyone in the room, but staff members said it perfectly illustrates what makes school-based healthcare unique. By seeing students regularly over many years, providers can build relationships that extend far beyond a single appointment. Those connections help students feel comfortable seeking care and often create positive experiences with healthcare that last a lifetime. That regular contact also allows providers to notice subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. “We see these kids every day,” said Dye. “Because we’re here consistently, we notice the little shifts. Sometimes it’s a mood change, sometimes it’s behavior, sometimes it’s something else entirely. Those small changes can be signs that something much bigger is happening

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3 in a child’s life.” Dye said some students enter the office seeking care without fully realizing an underlying issue may be affecting them. “There have been times when a student comes in for what seems like a routine visit, and as we talk, it becomes clear that there’s something deeper going on,” Dye said. “Having those relationships and seeing them regularly allows us to pick up on things that might otherwise go unnoticed.” That ability to recognize small warning signs can be especially important when it comes to mental and behavioral health. Because providers are embedded within schools and see students regularly, they can often identify concerns early and connect children with resources before problems grow more serious. Sometimes, Dye said, the most important thing a provider can do is simply ask a student if they are okay. Hamilton believes that accessibility and early intervention are among the program’s greatest strengths. “It really takes a special kind of person,” Hamilton said. “That’s why we do what we do. We care. We want these kids to succeed.” She noted that schoolbased health centers give students access to care much sooner than they might otherwise receive, helping bridge gaps that can exist in traditional healthcare systems. By having services available within the school setting, students can often be evaluated,

YOUR HEART.

OUR CARE.

Dr. Katz knows that you can’t care for someone’s heart without caring about who they are. That’s why he and everyone on the Bassett cardiology team take the time to get to know you, answer your questions, and work with you to create a plan you can be comfortable and GSRƼHIRX MR Ƃ FIGEYWI ]SYV LIEVX HIWIVZIW MX To schedule a cardiology appointment, call

607-547-3180

For more information visit:

Bassett.org/YourHeartOurCare

supported and connected with resources quickly. Hamilton said that in some situations outside the school environment, children may wait months for appointments or services. The centers also operate with a philosophy of collaboration. Staff members emphasize they are not there to replace local physicians, dentists or private practices. Instead, they work alongside schools, families, community providers and the broader Bassett Healthcare Network to ensure children

receive the care they need when they need it. When specialized treatment is required, providers help families navigate referrals and access additional resources. Today, school-based health centers function as comprehensive healthcare practices offering medical, dental, behavioral health, preventative care, care coordination, and referrals under one roof. For Hamilton, however, the true measure of success is not found in statistics or appointment numbers. It

is found in the students whose lives have been changed because someone noticed a problem, took the time to listen and offered help before a small concern became a crisis. More than three decades after the program began, its mission remains unchanged: meet children where they are, provide compassionate care and allow every “kiddo” to succeed. And for countless local students, that support is waiting just down the hall from their classroom.

ORIGINS SEASON FINALE PLANT AUCTION WEEK

MONDAY OCT.12

CAREFREE JAMBOREE

MONDAY OCT. 12 through

FRIDAY OCT. 16 4-7pm DAILY

3 - 6pm

activities for kids of all ages silent plant auction

TUESDAY OCT.13

WEDNES. OCT.14

MAYFLY FILM FESTIVAL

WELLNESS ROUNDTABLE

4pm succulent workshop & vinyl DJ 7pm short film fest

Holistic Health & Wellness Fair 4-7pm

THURS. OCT.15

FRIDAY OCT.16

Artisan Makers Market

THE SEASON FINALE PARTY

4-7pm

no reservations no table service tiki bar menu

happy hour specials plants & drinks!

7pm Concert:

Healing Love Water

Origins at Carefree Gardens 558 Beaver Meadown Road Cooperstown

5PM LIVE Plant Auction 7pm - late THREE DJS

originscafe.org

Perspectives

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

A-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL EDITOR’s Note

espite our best efforts, half our staff this week was felled by the flu, so this week’s paper is not as comprehensive as our standards would normally dictate. Be sure to read addi-

tional news articles on AllOtsego.com by Staff Writer Joshua Youngquist and Andrew Bottomley’s SUNY Oneonta Institute for Local News students. We expect to return to full power next

week with a paper jam-packed with the community news and reporting you have come to expect. P.S. Schedule your annual vaccinations now.

Life Sketches

TERRY BERKSON

Private Seller’s Vocal Debut

s my dad’s taxi headed for the Brooklyn Army Terminal, where I was to board a ship bound for Germany, he confided that he had slipped Walter Rolfe’s Century “Manual of Harmony” into my duffle bag. “You’re bound to have some offduty time,” my father said. “If you can find a piano, this book will teach you a lot of stuff that will come in handy.” It was a small, pocket-sized book of about 50 pages that covered major and minor scales, the theory of triads, dominant seventh chords, and much more. My dad often said that in learning music, if you don’t go forward you go backward. I arrived in Ludwigsburg shortly before Christmas and, after recovering from an extended bout with seasickness, settled into a military medic’s routine. There was a USO recreation building on Coffee Kaserne. That was the name of the base, but I soon learned that the German nationals called the place Gangster Barracks. Sure enough, there was a piano room in the “off duty” building and I managed to get several practices in before one evening I arrived to find another soldier was occupying the room— and the piano. His name was John Sellers. He was black, soft spoken and from the south. I later learned that he was a Seventh Day Adventist. He had a nice baritone voice and was using the piano to help him go through his vocal exercises. From that time on, we good naturedly competed in getting to the piano. It wasn’t long before we became friends and worked out a harmonious routine for practice. We even went downtown one night to view a screening of “My Fair Lady.” The Enlisted Men’s Club was another facility I frequented on

to my unit in Ludwigsburg. At six foot six and weighing more than 250 pounds, he may have been the biggest man in the army. When he entered the club one night, Werner Randecher, the leader of the live German band playing on the stage, stopped everything to ask Kelly, “Boy, vat dey feed you?” Kelly responded with a robust sounding, “BOY?” Shortly after that he was hired as a bouncer for the club—but he only lasted a few days before he was cut down to size and quit. Most nights I would go downtown to a guesthouse called the Pfisterer, where I had made some German friends. Unlike the club, the place was Photo provided quiet and well lit. Usually there was a Terry Berkson still has the Century Mu- card game or a fussball game going on sic Publishing Co. “Manual of Harmony,” and some “ump pa pa” music coming given to him by his dad when he set out to out of the juke box. A matronly Frau serve in the U.S. Army in Germany. Heinrich owned and ran the place. She had two pretty daughters—Evelyn, a the base. It was a rough place that “zoftig” brunette, and Claudia, a trim probably averaged a fight a night. blond. Both waited on tables. I had a You wouldn’t want to drink your crush on Evelyn, who would somebeer directly out of the bottle for times sit at my table and teach me fear someone would give it a shove German. Most times I was the only and knock your teeth out. Being a American there. bouncer at that place was a pretty One snowy night I didn’t go downdifficult job. Some of the fights were town and instead took a short walk over German national girls that to the club. I was surprised to find sometimes frequented the place, but Sellers standing by a window near drinking and lonely soldiers being the entrance. away from home provided countless “What are you doing here?” I reasons for fighting. One time this American Indian, Wahoo, whose real asked. “Listening to the music,” Sellers name was David Zuniga, got into a replied. “It’s a good band.” fight with the Lewis brothers, who “Yeah, they get plenty of pracwere twins. Wahoo was a boxer and was doing pretty well until one of the tice—why don’t you come inside? “I couldn’t do that.” brothers bit a piece of the Indian’s “Why not?” ear off. When I saw him later at the “It’s not my kind of place.” barracks, his head was bound in “Just stand inside the door so you bandages that made him look like can hear better,” I said, while pulling Vincent Van Goethe. on his arm. A soldier by the name of Kelly, “Okay, but just for a little while.” who was fresh from Vietnam, rotated

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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OUNDED

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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

Tara Barnwell

General Manager / Senior Editor

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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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Postmaster Send Address Changes to: Box 890, Cooperstown NY 13326

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

The band was in the middle of playing a tune called “Ebb Tide” and at the right moment Randecher lifted a glass of beer off the piano, took a gulp and started gargling into the microphone. He was pretty much ignored by the noisy crowd of GIs in the place. “They could use a good singer,” I said. “Not my style,” Sellers observed. “They can play anything. You want to sing with them?” “Not really.” “Then why were you standing outside?” “I was just listening.” “Wait here,” I said, while heading for the band on the stage. When I told Randecher that I had somebody who wanted to sing, he didn’t look impressed but said, “Zend him ofer.” I motioned for Sellers to come forward, but he waved me off, so I went and got him to walk up to the stage. Then I stood back as the bandleader began to talk to my friend. A few minutes later a casual announcement was made as the music started and this terrific voice began to belt out “Summer Time” like I never heard it sung before. The place gradually grew quiet as Randecher looked at Sellers in disbelief. I had never heard Sellers singing a song—only his exercises. Now, all I could hear was my friend’s voice in front of the band. Soon the song ended to enthusiastic applause as Sellers, looking humble, thanked the band and squeezed my arm as he made his way toward the door. In spite of his great performance, he never sang at the Enlisted Men’s Club again. Years later and long gone from the Army, I saw a small notice in “New York” magazine featuring Brother

HAWTHORN HILL JOURNAL

Continued on page 8

RICHARD DEROSA

With Science Top of Mind...

cience was never my strong suit. Neither was math. When it comes to the more compelling questions about life, neither science nor numbers come close to answering the deeply existential questions I ask myself. Science has been on my mind quite a bit lately, primarily because of the dangerous anti-science mentality of the present administration. Be it measles, the proven carcinogenic effects of certain pesticides, indisputable effects of climate change, or just having adequate numbers of people to trace the origins of contaminated foods, this crowd just doesn’t give a damn. Well, it does care deeply about wealth, but not very much about the health of either the planet or we the people. Science still does not answer my queries about self and the essential nature of humanity in the way that philosophy, literature and poetry do. But it is indispensable to our lives and I am grateful to those who have dedicated their lives to it.

As Adam Smith made so very clear in “The Wealth of Nations,” we help each other out by trading competencies. I do what I do well and you do what you do well and in that way we help each other out. I am not making an argument here for free market capitalism, although I do believe that with some moral and economic modifications from time to time it can be a useful and mutually beneficial system. Unfortunately, all too often the darker angels flit in and screw things up. And we still need to figure out effective ways of clipping those angels’ wings. I mentioned measles earlier. We are now in the midst of the largest national outbreak in quite some time. Several deaths have already been reported. An unvaccinated individual in Otsego County is reported to have contracted measles. This aversion to measles vaccines and vaccines in general is cause for alarm. Some shy from vaccinations for religious reasons. So be it. Others are jolted into

worry and fear because of unproven links to autism. I have expressed the view that people do not live their lives scientifically. By that I mean that many among us do not accept scientific data as sufficient in and of itself when making health-related decisions. The work of science happens at a far remove from everyday life. It seems distant and unfathomable to many. We tend to mistrust what we do not understand. And, to be fair, science is responsible for creating some of the more troubling innovations in human history. I recall all too vividly those air raid drills that required us to dive down underneath our desks to protect ourselves against nuclear fallout. Now we worry about the dehumanization of our lives due to robots and AI. And then there are those drones that have become lethal killing machines. Nonetheless, among the many extraordinary achievements of science, especially within the realm of healthcare and disease Continued on page 8

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL A-5

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

210 YEARS AGO

Captain Mamby of the British Navy has invented a machine with which a single individual may extinguish a conflagration. It is filled with a fluid composed of antiphlogistic ingredients. This fluid extinguishes, wherever it falls, the most ardent flames. The liquid contained in one of these pumps has as great an Photo contributed by Toni Parker effect as 120 buckets of water, in quantity. A case Cabral Gunter of Cabral’s Caribbean Store reads poetry written by his father at the NAACP annual picnic. containing three of these pumps composes the whole of the machine, being three feet long, two feet in breadth, and one foot in depth. It possesses the great advantage of being always ready—can be managed Cabral’s Caribbean Store at 300 the audience that slavery was a By MONICA CALZOLARI by one person, and furnishes a liquid equivalent to Main Street in Oneonta, was the common practice on Caribbean many hundred buckets of water. ONEONTA featured guest speaker. He read sugarcane plantations. September 26, 1816 bout 50 members of the three of his father’s poems about “The King of England is still the Oneonta chapter of the slavery in Jamaica. Cabral was head of state in Jamaica,” Joseph National Association introduced by Paul Conway, one Gunter said. Jamaicans need a visa His Vacation—Master Henry Lamb, son of J. for the Advancement of Colored of his political science profes- to visit America. English is the official language Warren Lamb of this village, spent a part of his People gathered in Neahwa Park sors when he attended SUNY of Jamaica. After 300 years of school vacation down in Greene County, and has on Saturday, August 22 for an Oneonta. Joseph Gunter, Cabral’s father, British colonization, Jamaica returned home. He was at his accustomed place annual picnic. The NAACP is the oldest and is a poet and historian. He spends became an independent nation in the Sabbath School on Sunday last, and it was noticed that he had brought a friend with him in largest grassroots civil rights orga- part of the year in his native on August 6, 1962. Jamaica has the form of a crutch. Enquiry elicited from Henry nization in the United States. The Jamaica and has been in Oneonta a prime minister; yet, the British facts that make up quite a little chapter of accidents Oneonta chapter was founded in since January. He holds a green monarch remains head of state that befell our young friend during his outing. The 1993 and has about 90 members. card. He attended the NAACP under their constitution. Continued on page 8 crutch was brought into use to favor a foot into Cabral Gunter, owner of event and informed some of which a rusty nail had penetrated. He had visited a saw mill, he said, while down there, and stood a By MERL REAGLE little too close to the saw to escaped being marked by it; while a rather unfriendly dog had also left an impression with him that his teeth were yet sharp; A real mix of people and the hoof of an animal had also made its presence ACROSS felt. However, Henry had come out in good shape, 1 F amilia guy and in a few days expects to lay aside the crutch. 4 Scenery chewers October 1, 1891 8 Michael Jackson album 11 Overdue for ___ Watterson Lowe of New York completed his (underpaid) second year as social director at the Hotel Otesaga 17 22 Across, shuffled with the closing of the hotel over the week-end. He has returned to his home in the city to await the 20 Grammy-grabbing guitarist opening of the cruise season when he expects to be back at his winter vocation as a cruise director. For 22 Knute Rockne portrayer more than 30 years Watty Lowe has been the man remembered by thousands of people for making a 23 20 Across, shuffled vacation a memorable occasion. At the Otesaga, 24 Have ___ many seated at his desk just off the spacious lobby, he has (overdo it) greeted hundreds and hundreds of people who have 25 School misfits stayed at the famous resort hotel. 27 Shapiro of NPR September 28, 1966 28 Shredded 29 Greenspan’s group, the ___ Corrections: William J. Guilfoile, associate 30 “Don’t you have ___ director of the Baseball Hall of Fame said a quote to go to?” was inaccurately attributed to him in the September 32 Al’s rube 18 Cooperstown edition of The Freeman’s Journal. 34 Calf-length skirt In an article headlined “Tourism Story Draws Strong 36 Eastwood in Rawhide Response” Guilfoile was quoted as saying “If it 39 Eminent follower? wasn’t for tourists, there would be nothing here but 44 Test for jrs. a lot of uneasy residents.” Guilfoile denies having said “uneasy residents.” Also, the last name of the 46 C arol Burnett Show grandparents of Ryan Scott Bennett, who was born regular on September 6 at Bassett Hospital, was misspelled 50 ___ profundo 104 Model or puzzle 1985 75 C elebrity lives, after their in the last edition. The grandparents are Mr. and 51 “Nuts!” bios? 106 “There but for the grace of 20 Part of EOM Mrs. Robert Ubner. 53 46 Across, shuffled God ___” 76 Carry (out), as justice 21 Farmer’s ears October 2, 1991 55 The mark of Frankenstein 109 Fleeing the MPs 78 Show spunk 26 Jumps when scared, e.g. 56 Carnaval city 113 Greek letters 81 Dog owner’s order 31 Mega-seller 57 Wading birds 114 Moral writer 82 Prying types 32 In a faint A committee has formed to oversee a celebration 59 Get to the ___ the problem 116 Christie’s “Express” train 33 Do what Dillinger did 83 Type of carpet of the Bicentennial of Cooperstown’s incorporation 61 Snack 119 124 Across, shuffled 86 N ame mentioned in 34 C larke who received on April 3, 1807. Headed by Village Trustee Grace Lennon’s “Come Together” 62 E lephant obstacles of 218 122 “Bette Davis Eyes” singer Cagney’s grapefruit facial Kull, the group is planning a grand celebration for B.C. 88 Goal of a verb’s action: abbr. the 200th anniversary. The committee envisions a 124 R oman Holiday Oscar 35 Hankering 64 Playing with a full deck nominee 90 That, in Tijuana mayoral proclamation, a series of historical exhibits 37 Playskool product in the Village Hall, publications and a grand parade 65 Make a Top Ten list 125 122 Across, shuffled 92 Abbr. in ages 38 Envelop on September 8, 2007, to kick off a week of special 66 Make do? 126 Curiouser and curiouser? 40 Bucolic parents 94 Take to court events to commemorate two centuries of village 68 Coquettish 127 Top exec 97 “___ and yet so far” 41 42 Down, shuffled history. 70 Macaroni 128 Gen. Robt. ___ 100 P hilomela’s sister, turned 42 Violin virtuoso September 29, 2006 into a swallow 71 Earthquake hotlines? 129 Wily 43 C ompass heading, in 102 Gather up, as a flag or sail 72 Snake, at times DOWN Cancún 103 Easy ___ (elementary) 73 Topped tortes 1 The ___ the iceberg 44 He played Laverne’s dad Solution: “My Tax Day 105 M aestro Jones of car-horn, 75 Arabian Sea nation 2 Daffy or goofy 45 44 Down, shuffled Film Guide” (September 24) pot-lid fame 77 Whom Festus or Chester 3 Chose 47 Sacred picture 106 They’re trait-laced would pester 4 Train jumper 48 Hog-wild 107 A ctress in The Bad News 79 Science org. 5 To Europe 49 Sun ___-sen Bears 80 Mortar masher 6 ___ tai (cocktail) 51 Anatomical entrances 108 Lesley Gore’s “___ Party” 82 Lays out 7 Person in the pool 52 Hovering bird 109 Gulf off Somalia 84 Comparative ending 8 Grille covers 54 “Sorry, out of the question” 110 “What do ___ now, Mr. 85 Nobel-winning physiologist 9 Voice, as a grievance 58 Beam of light Know-It-All?” Meyerhof 10 1983 taxi movie starring 60 Mad, in Marseilles 111 Auto pioneer 87 A Different World star Mr. T 63 Part of RSVP 112 Twice XXX, minus VII 89 Surprise-ending specialist 11 Part of SHAEF 65 Steiger or Stewart 114 With flot, a Russian airline 91 Wee 12 Actress Charlotte 67 Shade tree 115 Summer in D.C.: abbr. 93 87 Across, shuffled 13 Secy.’s calendar listing 69 Member of Cong. 117 Steeplechase 95 The Y, e.g. 14 Put ___ (ask) 70 Unconvincingly 118 Like “go,” as a verb: abbr. 96 Mitt misses 15 Yvette’s evening 71 Aficionado 120 Andy’s aunt 98 “I hate ___!” (employee’s 16 Noun ending 72 Slang for a $100 bill 121 Caddie’s gadget plaint) 18 Plant woe 73 “___ little late for that” 123 Thou, squared 99 Ascent 19 Quaid-Gossett sci-fi film of 74 Allegations 101 Nap spots

Picnic Highlights History of Slavery in Jamaica

135 YEARS AGO

Doin’ the Celebrity Shuffle…

60 YEARS AGO

35 YEARS AGO

20 YEARS AGO

A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

‘The Burkittsville 3’ Reimagines Horror Classic for Oneonta Stage By JAYLEN LAMPRON SUNY Institute for Local News ONEONTA locally written stage adaptation of “The Blair Witch Project” will give Oneonta-area performers an opportunity to explore immersive theater while offering audiences a new way to experience a landmark horror story. “The Burkittsville 3,” written and directed by local playwright Allie Tabor, will be presented October 1-3 at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center in Oneonta. The one-act play places audience members on the main stage alongside the performers,

creating an intimate setting intended to reproduce the disorientation and immediacy of the original film. “We are going to have the play take place on the main stage but have the audience sitting on stage with us,” Tabor said. “We’re trying to make it a fully immersive experience.” The approximately 80minute production will be performed without an intermission. The show is free and was produced through a series of grants, according to Tabor. Performances begin at 7 p.m. each night. “The Burkittsville 3” is an unofficial adaptation of the 1999 horror film “The Blair Witch Project.” The story follows three student filmmakers who

enter the Maryland woods to investigate the legend of the Blair Witch, only to become lost and disappear. Written and directed by Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez, the original film helped popularize the foundfootage format, presenting fictional events as recordings recovered after the filmmakers vanished. Its three principal actors filmed much of the material themselves during an eight-day shoot, and much of the dialogue was improvised. Tabor said her stage version follows the film closely while expanding the characters and their relationships for a small, black-box-style theatrical production. “Blair Witch is my

favorite scary movie,” Tabor explained. She was inspired to write the adaptation after hearing Michael Williams, one of the film’s principal actors, discuss the production process and the cast’s experience filming in the woods with limited contact with the directors. “I was like, ‘I think this could be a play,’” Tabor said. The production is the first work written by Tabor to be performed for an audience. “It’s the first thing I’ve ever written that’s being performed for other people,” she said. Tabor has been involved with Foothills for several years as a director, producer, festival organizer and board member. Her previous work at the

venue has included “American Idiot,” “The Laramie Project,” “Twisted: The Untold Story of a Royal Vizier” and the Foothills Fringe Festival. “I was asked to be on the board, and the board kind of opened their arms and let me pitch my ideas,” Tabor said. Morgan Dutcher plays Heather, the student filmmaker who leads the group into the woods. Seth Johnson plays Joshua, one of Heather’s companions. The principal cast also includes Carl Loewenguth as Michael. Katie Tiska serves as stage manager and works on props and special effects, including makeup effects and handmade scenic pieces. Read the full article on AllOtsego.com.

OBITUARIES

Photo provided

Alda Abbate

Alda Abbate 1926-2026

COOPERSTOWN— Alda Abbate, a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved friend, was born on Staten Island, New York, in 1926. She spent nearly her entire life on Staten Island, including 95 years on Austin Avenue, surrounded by her family, friends, and community she loved so dearly. Alda attended P.S. 39 on Staten Island. As a young woman, she married the love of her life and childhood sweetheart, Dominick Abbate.

Together they built a home and family filled with love. After 20 years of marriage,Alda suffered the heartbreaking loss of her husband in 1967. Suddenly widowed with two young sons, ages 14 and 7, she found within herself the strength and determination to move forward and provide for her children. Alda returned to work and spent many years at a family-owned airplane factory until its closing. She later became a manager at Victory Lighting on Victory Boulevard. When the store closed, Alda began working at Leones Restaurant and Tavern, where her warm personality and caring nature made her loved by customers and coworkers alike. She later worked for the Board of Elections until her retirement. But Alda’s life was never defined simply by where she worked. It was defined by the people she loved and the love she gave them.

Family was the center of Alda’s world. She was a strong, loving and caring mother who devoted herself to her children and made whatever sacrifices were necessary to give them a good life. As a grandmother, she found tremendous happiness in her grandsons, Dominick and Richard Abbate, whom she loved and cherished deeply. Alda also treasured her friendships and enjoyed spending time at the Arrochar Friendship Club, where she shared many happy moments with her fellow club members. After spending 93 years on Staten Island, Alda began a new chapter of her life when she moved to Cooperstown, New York, home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, to be with her family. Alda was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dominick Abbate; her son, Joseph Abbate, who passed away in 2017; her parents, Joseph

and Clementine Bordi; and her sister, Enis Antonacci. She is survived by her loving son, Richard Abbate, and his wife, Rosemarie, her two cherished grandsons, Dominick and Richard Abbate, and many nieces and nephews. Those who knew Alda will remember a woman of remarkable strength and resilience, but also a woman with a loving and generous heart. She faced life’s hardships with courage, worked tirelessly for the family she adored, valued her friendships, and found her greatest happiness in being a mother and grandmother. Alda’s life was a life of love, sacrifice, family and strength. The years she gave to those around her, the lessons she taught by example, and the love she placed in the hearts of her children and grandchildren will remain a part of them forever. She will be deeply

missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. A beautiful mother. A cherished grand-mother. A strong and remarkable woman. And a love that will never be forgotten. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated

at 9:30 a.m. Friday, October 2, 2026, at Holy Rosary Church, 120 Jerome Avenue in South Beach, Staten Island. Interment will be in Moravian Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

Legal

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

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

Legal nOtice

INDIGO & OAK LLC.

Notice of Formation of

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

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of HOLSCHER CONSTRUCTION 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 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

Legal

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 Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name:

Legal

LEGALS

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 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 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

HONEY JOE RANCH LLC.

Legal nOtice

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

Notice of formation of

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

ROMPIN’ RON LLC. 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 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

THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7

Legal

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

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, 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,

in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalOct.8

organization 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

“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.

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered, and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

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 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 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,

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

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 in the 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

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. Dated: August 28th, 2026 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of ICE COLD REFRIGERATION AND APPLIANCE REPAIR LLC 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 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 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 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 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company, Highcrest Equestrian LLC filed with the Secretary of State on 8/13/26. Location: Otsego 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 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GLIMMERGLASS WINDOW CLEANING LLC Articles of

Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Pine Creek Farm Services LLC 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 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GRETNA LANDSCAPING LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 9/23/26. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 2704 State Highway 7, Otego, NY 13825, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalNov.5 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of ArcSmith Welding, LLC Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/24/2026. 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 155 John Hill Rd., Burlington Flats, NY 13315 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalNov.5

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

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

NAACP

Continued from page 5 Initially, Christopher Columbus claimed Jamaica for Spain in 1494. Spain remained in control of Jamaica for more than 150 years. Slavery began with the Spanish and grew substantially with the British. England seized Jamaica from Spain in 1655 and ruled for 300 years. “The melting pot started in Jamaica,” said Joseph Gunter. “We are a multiracial society.” Many Europeans settled there. Germans, Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Indians and Chinese live in Jamaica. Jamaica became one of Britain’s most valuable colonies as a major producer and exporter of sugar cane and cacao. The free labor of hundreds of thousands of enslaved Africans who were shipped to Jamaica to work as plantation labor made this possible. After almost 250 years of rebellion and resistance by the slaves, slavery was legally abolished in Jamaica in 1834. Referring to slavery and the fight for civil rights, Matthew Hendley, SUNY Oneonta professor of history and NAACP member for 10 years, said, “This is an important side of history that we need to highlight.” Joseph Gunter gave a poetry reading and lecture on the history of Jamaica to some of Hendley’s SUNY Oneonta students two years ago. One of the Gunter poems read on August 22 introduced Marcus Garvey. Born in Jamaica, Garvey is considered Jamaica’s first national hero according to Cabral Gunter. He founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association in 1914 to help advance economic opportunities for people of African descent with the goal of establishing an independent government for Black people in Africa. Garvey’s message of black pride and dignity inspired many Americans during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s

and 1960s. According to the BBC, “Garvey was a Jamaicanborn black nationalist who created a ‘Back to Africa’ movement in the United States. He became an inspirational figure for later civil rights activists.” In 1916, Garvey lived in Harlem, New York and had many followers. The goal of the Universal Negro Improvement Association was to promote selfreliance among African Americans and solidarity among Black people worldwide, according to KennedyCenter.org. Paul Conway, Lee Fisher, NJ Michael and Joanne Fisher led the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Negro National Anthem, at the picnic. Attendees also sang “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round.” Representatives from the League of Women’s Voters also attended the event and set up a table providing election information. Monica Calzolari has been a member of the NAACP since 2023.

checking out plants of all kinds and while I do check a guide to validate their identity, I pay little attention to their Latin monikers. I am glad that Linnaeus created the system of classification that he did. Scientific classification serves a distinct scientific purpose. It is a useful tool. But like any tool, it has its limitations. Its drawback is that it cannot convey the essence of the thing it classifies. In fact, it can have a deadening effect. Latin terms ascribing species and genus do have a place in the lab. Where they fall short is doing justice to the wonder and beauty of the object being experienced—and felt.

its remoteness from our daily lives. It is important to remember, however, that science is just one of many methods we use to make sense of our lives and ourselves. Dick deRosa’s Hawthorn Hill essays have appeared in “The Freeman’s Journal” since 1998. A collection, “Hawthorn Hill Journal: Selected Essays,” was published in 2012. He is a retired English teacher.

Berkson

Continued from page 4

Sellers in concert at a hall in Manhattan. I had no idea if this Sellers was the soldier I had known back in Germany. Unfortunately, at that time, I was too caught up I trust reputable scien- with work and a young tific research of the type family to make more that has developed so than a feeble attempt to many undeniably effectrack down an old friend. tive vaccines. Frankly, I still have the music it is an act of faith to manual given to me by allow someone to jab my father but unfortuyou with a needle that nately, without the inceninjects something into tive of competing with your system that you Sellers for the piano, I really know very little haven’t mastered all that about. Heretofore, we the book had to offer. have been quite willing Terry Berkson’s to believe that what we articles have appeared in are allowing someone “New York” magazine, do to us is both safe and “Automobile” magaContinued from page 4 effective. We trusted the zine and many others. science behind it because prevention, vaccinaReviews on his crititions top the list. Sifting we trusted the process cally-praised memoir, that guaranteed its out our more troubling “Corvette Odyssey,” efficacy and safety. We tendencies has never can be found on had faith in the system. been our strong suit. TerryBerkson.com. That faith has been In “The Forest Unseen: A Year’s Watch eroded. No wonder some are skeptical. Science in Nature,” David operates at such a far George Haskell writes, Continued from page 1 remove from everyday “I have glimpsed how life. When people start In retirement, Muscrich science is but simulquestioning the integrity arella works at Thistle taneously how limited in of a system whose sole Hill Weavers in Cherry scope and in spirit. It is job is to reassure us that Valley, a custom weaving unfortunate that the pracall is well, the center mill which weaves tice of listening generstarts to fray. Especially 17th-, 18thand 19thally has no place in the when crackpots are at century reproductions formal training of scienthe helm. of fabrics and trims for tists. In this absence, museums, homeowners, Science prides itself science needlessly interior designers, and on its objectivity. That fails. We are poorer for the film industry. Mill is its function. Its moral this and possibly more owner Rabbit Goody dimensions are somehurtful.” He has watched is an internationallywhat feebly paid attenone patch of ground for known textile historian, tion to. Nonetheless, we a year and realized that researcher, lecturer, and need science, just as we what he sees and experihas served as a consulneed art and music and ences in that year is an tant to major museums, literature and poetry. evolving story, and that weaver’s guilds and the There is a compelseeing and experiencing film industry. ling need for science things only through the Several area quilting to state its case more lens of science is just groups will also display clearly and to find ways one part of a larger story: their handiwork. “In of reassuring us that it nature. I spend a lot of Stitches,” a Sidney wishes us well despite time wandering around

deRosa

Quilts

quilting group, will mount a special exhibit in the Clock Room. Quilts from the Night Owls quilting group in Delaware County, the Susquehanna Valley Quilters and the Triangle Guild of Whitney Point will also be on view. Janet Lent will be giving hand-stitching demonstrations and the Gilbert Block Quilters will set up a boutique on the second floor to sell quilting supplies. Also on the secondfloor, a memorial room dedicated to Martin and Marga Albanese by their family showcases this year’s theme, “Quilts of Freedom.” Red, white and blue are the predominant colors of these quilts, which feature abstract flags, the Declaration of Independence, stars and stripes, and other patriotic images. Two quilts and a basket donated by the Leatherstocking Quilt Shop will be raffled. A $10.00 lunch, offering homemade soups, sandwiches and desserts, will be available each day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. “We have fantastic quilts again this year. There’s a great variety of colorful and artistic quilts,” said Laurens resident Lucy Kise, a lifelong quilter who also helps with the many moving parts of mounting the show. All proceeds from the quilt show go to the Major’s Inn Foundation, a nonprofit corporation dedicated to the maintenance and restoration of the Tudor-style inn, the construction of which

was completed in 1901. The inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For information, call (607) 783-2967 or visit www.themajorsinn.com.

Village

Continued from page 1 Committee. “The townships support the WSC scientific advisor position, Dr. Kiyoko Yokota, and in prior years provided support for the initial year of data by Upstate Freshwater Institute,” Tillapaugh said. She added that “three years of data collection are being used for the modeling,” providing local officials and environmental experts with critical information as watershed planning efforts continue. The regional cooperation reflects a shared commitment to protecting Otsego Lake while ensuring long-term planning decisions are guided by science and collaboration rather than jurisdictional boundaries. Taken together, the recent grants and partnerships point toward a broader goal of preparing Cooperstown for future growth while maintaining the services and resources residents depend upon. From expanding infrastructure capacity for housing to investing in emergency response and watershed protection, village officials say the work being done today is focused on ensuring the Village of Cooperstown remains well-positioned in the years ahead.

* With purchase of a new Safe Step Stairlift. Not applicable with any previous stairlift purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. Not available in every state. Expires 12/31/26. CSLB 1082165, NSCB 0083445, 13VH11096000, CGC1537181, ROC 312990, CCB 244331, SAFESSW784PS, PA127501, MHIC 134223, TN 5887, RL.884533, RBB.49248, UT 13229623-5501