Hometown Oneonta 01-12-23

LOCALS:

By CASPAR EWIG COOPERSTOWN

Bassett Hospital’s proposal to build housing for its employees on Averill Road, on property owned by the Templeton Foundation, was the subject of a public hearing before Cooperstown’s Board of Trustees on January 5. That hearing was in conjunction with the board voting on whether a special permit to allow the construction should be granted and, if granted, under what conditions or limitations.

The hearing had attracted interest and was well attended.

At the outset, Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh set the ground rules for the hearing. After the Bassett representatives explained the project, each participant was allowed five minutes to comment.

“It’s totally your opportunity to speak and be heard, and that will take as long as we need. If you want to stay for two hours, we will stay

Doubleday Field Donation Shows Sincere Preservation Dedication

By TED MEBUST COOPERSTOWN

The Friends of Doubleday, a 501c(3) nonprofit fundraising organization based in Cooperstown, has donated $10,000.00 to the Village of Cooperstown to bolster renovation costs of Doubleday Field’s new third-baseline building, which will be named the Bud Fowler Pavilion.

“We’re very thankful for the Friends of Doubleday and excited to be nearing the end of the road on this project,” said Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, who accepted the donation on behalf of the village at a meeting of the Doubleday Committee on January 9.

The FOD originally organized to help the village with renovation costs and smaller projects to maintain the historic site by

selling merchandise, tours, art prints, autographed photos of Hall of Famers, and events, still offered today. Their previous projects include restoring the roof of the ballpark’s grandstand, the paver project, in which the names of people and organizations that donated to restore the field were inscribed on bricks placed just outside the grandstand, and the dedication of Bud Fowler Way, honoring the first known Black professional baseball player.

Singh Family Readies New Retail Property Former Friendly’s Being Converted to Apple Express

By TARA BARNWELL

ONEONTA

The Singh family of Milford owns a number of properties in Otsego County, their latest acquisition being the former Friendly’s restaurant in Oneonta.

“The location of the old Friendly’s is great. The parking is great, as well,” said Harry Singh, who will be running Apple Express, a new convenience store currently under construction at 377 Main Street.

“Sure, there are a lot of convenience stores and gas stations in Oneonta. But my family has a reputation of helping people in our community. We have become known for our customer service,” Harry said. “Just like our little gas station on Route 7 in Oneonta—we grew that

location from a small gas station to a large convenience store and gas station.”

“What sets us apart is that we treat people right. People notice that,” he continued.

“People know us and the things we do in Milford, but they don’t really know us in Oneonta…yet. It’s a different market from Milford. We treat people with respect.”

The Singh family is very involved wherever they are.

Harry’s brother, Paul, runs the Apple Food and Grocery and Apple Inn and Suites in Milford. His father, Gurdev, oversees the Pit Stop gas station and convenience store in Index.

“We are a family that is very involved. We are not corporate owned. I will always be at the store; I am hands-on. It makes us

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LEAF Receives ARC Grant

Funds To Support Workplace Wellbeing, Recovery-to-Work Efforts

ONEONTA

LEAF, the Leatherstocking Education on Alcoholism/ Addictions Foundation, has been awarded $378,704.00 toward efforts associated with a new substance use disorder recovery and workforce development initiative. The funds, from the Appalachian Regional Commission, will support the North4 INSPIRE program, providing those

in recovery with education, workforce training and wraparound services.

The INSPIRE Initiative Implementation grant from ARC will improve individuals’ chances for successful employment and sustained recovery. In addition, the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors has allocated American Recovery Plan Act funds for $75,000.00 over three years to support the project. LEAF, based

in Otsego County, will be joined by partners in Chenango, Delaware and Schoharie counties.

“The substance use disorder crisis isn’t solely a health and family issue— it’s also a workforce development issue, and thus a community issue. At ARC, we’re laser-focused on creating a comprehensive network of supports to help individuals recovering

Continued

Photo by Tara Barnwell

Harry Singh is converting the former Friendly’s restaurant to a convenience store. The Singh family also owns Apple Food and Grocery and Apple Inn and Suites in Milford and the Pit Stop in Index.

Photo by Ted Mebust

Jeff Katz, president of Friends of Doubleday, gives Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh a check for $10,000.00 to aid Doubleday Field renovations.

Legion Post 259 Dedicates New Museum to Late Oneontan David Townsend Jr.

By CASPAR EWIG

OnEOnTA

In a well-attended luncheon ceremony last Saturday, January 7, Oneonta American Legion Post 259 opened its Oneonta Veterans Museum with a dedication to Chief Warrant Officer 2 David Townsend Jr.

The museum houses a varied assortment of military mementos, including more than 100 models of ships, tanks, helicopters, and other military equipment built and assembled by David’s brother, Barry Townsend. It also displays photographs of veterans and a scrapbook containing copies of news articles reporting on the exploits and tragedies of Oneontan soldiers serving in World War II.

“I had all these models that I had made and was really looking to put them some place so others could enjoy them,” Barry recounted. “And when I brought it up to the post manager, Wayne Gregory, the idea of a museum was born.”

The second floor of the Legion’s clubhouse, formerly a restaurant, has been converted with donated materials by the efforts of a dedicated core of Legion members.

Sharon Parshall, a member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 259, even located a pristine 1941 Legion uniform. Worn by Carl Van Buren, a World War I veteran and member of

Project

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for two hours,” Mayor Tillapaugh said.

Upon the conclusion of public comments, the Board would review Bassett’s presentation together with the public comments and analyze the proposal in light of issues raised in the new York State Environmental Quality Review applicable to the project.

Matt Hamlin, Bassett Hospital/Templeton Foundation attorney, opened the discussion by pointing out that the underlying rationale for the project was the well documented shortage of health-care providers, and the need for Bassett to make housing available as an inducement. The site would contain two town houses of six units each and a twostory apartment house with 15 units per floor.

Joe Piraino of inARCHITECTS and Scott Freeman of Keplinger Freeman Associates LLC described the details of the project and how it would fit into the community. The location of the units was somewhat influenced by the topography of the site, but designers are able to provide a set-back of 150-200 feet and planned additional vegetation to make the units unobtrusive. At the same time, the sidewalks were designed to make the housing a part of the community.

It was pointed out that a new water tower would be constructed to service the site, which would replace the existing aged water tower and provide improved service to the rest of the Cooperstown community.

During the ensuing public hearing, concerns expressed fell into the categories of notional and practical. A number of speakers objected because the property intended to be developed was one of the few unspoiled areas still left within the village. A different location, such as behind the Clark Sports Center or the Meadows Office Complex,

Post 259 for 62 years, the uniform is now on display.

“We thought it only very appropriate that the museum honoring all veterans be named to honor Barry’s brother, Dave, who died while serving as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam,” Gregory said.

The dedication luncheon also featured reminiscences by guest speaker Sr. Master Chief Gordon Foster, also a major contributor of museum artifacts.

American Legion Post 259 is located at 279 Chestnut Street. Although a schedule has not yet been finalized, Gregory expects to open the museum from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Special arrangements for visitation can be made by contacting the Legion at (607) 432-0494.

was suggested as more practical and less obtrusive.

As summed up by one member of the audience, “We want our hospital to thrive and be a quality hospital… but I totally agree that this is not the proper location.”

The developers responded that they had considered other locations, but that those alternatives were deemed unfavorable.

Some opponents raised issues as to how construction would affect the water runoff. Others pointed to the inadequacies of the roads leading to the development, and adjoining landowners feared the invasion of their property during the construction phase. The impact on the school system and the school bus routing schedule was also voiced as a concern.

A number of individuals voiced strong support due to the absence of adequate housing and the need to attract health-care workers.

Supporters of the project felt any problems could be solved or ameliorated.

After reviewing the issues raised by SEQR, the trustees voted unanimously to issue the special permit, but upon a number of conditions.

To comply with the state’s environmental requirements, a geotechnical survey of the project’s effect on the water table is required, as well as a civil and traffic engineer’s report on the project’s impact on the existing road and electrical system. In addition, the trustees require a guarantee that all leases will exceed 30 days, that an arborist report on the adequacy of the buffer vegetation, and that the Cooperstown fire chief provide written approval of the location of fire hydrants and the adequacy of the road system to accommodate fire trucks. Finally, the SEQR requires a report to specifically address the traffic issues surrounding Averill, Beech and Main streets.

Following the granting of the special permit, the project will be presented to the Planning Board, at which time an additional public hearing will be scheduled.

The job scene job scene

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

Charlotte Valley CSD

Edmeston CSD Laurens CSD Milford CSD

Oneonta City SD Schenevus Stamford

Windham-Ashland-Jewett CSD Worcester CSD

ONC BOCES (Grand Gorge & Milford)

Sub S titute Po S ition S: Teachers LTAs

Aides & Monitors Nurses Cleaners

Bus & Van Drivers

Clerical & Office Support Food Service Workers

Sub S titute S needed for the following S chool di S trictS: EOE

Please visit www.oncboces.org/subs for application and information.

The Farmers’ Museum

and Fenimore Art Museum have openings for: Security/Safety Guard

Full-time, year round position. Applicants must have a clean driving license, be able to walk considerable distances in all weather conditions and have open availability including weekends and holidays. The workday includes using computer based monitoring systems, walking extensive museum grounds, completing incident reports and troubleshooting for potential hazards. We provide training, certification, an excellent benefits package, including health and dental insurance, paid holidays, vacation, and sick pay.

To apply go to fenimoreartmuseum.org for an application, mail completed application to HR at Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 St. Hwy 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or call Human Resources at 607-547-1462. EOE

Covid-19 vaccination is a requirement of employment.

The Fenimore Art Museum has an opening for:

Custodial/Maintenance Worker

Full-time, year round position with an excellent benefit package.

Applicants with basic construction and carpentry knowledge for small to moderate repair jobs are sought. Responsibilities include routine cleaning/maintenance of public and office spaces, light carpentry/painting, and special event setup. If you are a steady, reliable worker; have a valid driver’s license; are capable of operating power equipment and enjoy working both inside and outdoors year-round, apply today!

To apply go to fenimoreartmuseum.org for an application, mail completed application to HR at Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 St. Hwy 80, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or call Human Resources at 607-547-1462. EOE

Covid-19 vaccination is a requirement of employment.

Photos by Caspar Ewig Oneonta American Legion Post 259 dedicated its new museum to CWO2 David Townsend Jr. (left) with a ceremony held on Saturday, January 7. The Legion uniform on display in the museum was worn by Carl Van Buren, a World War I veteran and a Post 259 member for 62 years (above).

Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society

Releases CBC 2022 Highlights

By SAnDRA BRIGHT OnEOnTA

The Christmas “Side Hunt” was a holiday tradition around the turn of the 20th century, in which people would shoot as many birds as possible. In 1900, ornithologist Frank M. Chapman proposed a new holiday tradition, to count birds rather than kill them. Twenty-seven participants counted birds in locations around north America that year. Thus was born the national Audubon Christmas Bird Count, now the longest running citizen science program in the world, spread across more than 20 countries.

The Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Oneonta CBC was begun in 1969, with the 54th count taking place on December 17. This year, the count seemed doomed from the beginning, with several team leaders having to bow out for other commitments. Substitutes were found, but then a snowstorm hit, continuing into the early hours of the count date, leaving a couple of teams snowbound until the early afternoon. Three more teams and a FeederWatcher dropped out due to illness or other unexpected events.

Fewer effort hours leads to fewer birds, and the 2,168 birds counted were less than half the average of about 4,600. Only 39 species were found, nine fewer than average and equal to the number found in 2013, another year in which

LEAF

Continued from page 1

from substance use disorder succeed,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “InSPIRE projects are tackling the economic impacts of the substance use disorder crisis to grow the region’s labor force and, more importantly, provide hope and purpose for individuals in recovery.”

The north4 InSPIRE program will also focus on supporting small businesses with evidence-based, adaptive programming to improve business economic stability and worker wellbeing, and to reduce stigma in the workplace related to recovery from substance abuse disorder, past history of legal involvement, and addiction and mental health treatment.

“We are overjoyed that the ARC selected LEAF’s proposal to continue the important work supporting the workforce in the local region,” said Julie Dostal, executive director of LEAF. “We look forward to working with local companies to implement programming to facilitate a healthy workforce, while paving the way for a recovery-friendly environment in businesses located in Otsego, Delaware, Chenango and Schoharie counties.”

Justin Hamm, executive director of the Schoharie County Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, said his organization is excited by the partnership and grateful to the Schoharie County Board of Supervisors for its contribution.

“As the agencies across our region continue to educate and advocate for people affected by substance use disorder, having the support of our elected leaders here in Schoharie County gives us the confidence to connect people in recovery to gainful employment.”

For more information about the north4 InSPIRE program, contact Project Coordinator Kyleen Joslyn at (607) 371-4700.

FOD

weather conditions wreaked havoc on the count efforts.

Those who did manage to get out in the morning were greeted by stunning scenery accented by occasional sunshine sparkling off new snow. no records were set, but a few less common finds were recorded. The first sighting by Randy and Carol Lynch was a fisher, not to be counted but a thrill, nonetheless. They went on to have good raptor numbers and lots of common ravens, though fewer of the more common birds. Bob Donnelly found two each of screech owls and hooded mergansers, and watched an otter along Schenevus Creek. Dave and Ann Kiehm counted 52 evening grosbeaks at their feeders.

Streams and rivers were open, and, although most still water was frozen, Charlie Scheim and Sandy Bright discovered a great blue heron hunting an inlet of Goodyear Lake, while Pam Peters and Jane Bachman found three belted kingfishers, one at an open swamp. They likely had better luck finding food than the four American robins that were spotted, all puffed out and huddled high in a tree above the snow-covered terrain.

Complete results are available at the DOAS website, https://doas. us/bird-counts/.

Sandra Bright is the Oneonta area Christmas Bird Count coordinator for the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society.

the field has been from September to October.

West Kortright Centre Awarded $40,000 by NYS Council on the Arts

EAST MEREDITH

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former State Senator Jim Seward, the late Assemblyman William Magee and an Empire State Development Grant. The Village of Cooperstown also made a proportional match to the generated funding.

Major structural changes to the grounds, including a total redesign of the parking lot to improve drainage and add a pedestrian-friendly walkway which highlights sculptor Victor Salvatore’s “The Sandlot Kid” statue, as well as repairs to the field’s grandstand, were completed by 2020.

Surveyal of the thirdbaseline stands, however, impeded renovation progress as boring samples indicated the ground underneath was not compact enough to be built upon without additional reinforcements. Thus, plans for the proposed third-base building were modified to include the necessary supports.

Despite changes to the original design, the building still includes bathrooms for men, women, and families, two changing rooms for teams, an office for the Doubleday Field caretaker, and an umpire’s room.

“There’s really going to be an elevated sense of quality [to the stadium]... I’ve always believed that Cooperstown should have the best,” said Katz, now FOD president.

With only the bleachers left to be installed, project leaders anticipate the Bud Fowler Pavilion to be operational by June. Doubleday Field has stayed open for events despite the renovations, Mayor Tillapaugh noted, and the village anticipates a busy summer following the project’s completion.

“We’re seeing more use of the field for league play and Hall of Fame events, especially this last July, which is exciting,” said Tillapaugh, who explained that, historically, the busiest time period for renting

The Savannah Bananas, in partnership with the national Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, announced that Doubleday Field will be the final stop on their World Tour, playing their Banana Ball Game on September 16 of this year.

The Savannah Bananas are a traveling baseball experience dedicated to improving the game of baseball for fans through experimentation with different rules and performative displays, prioritizing the fan experience.

In addition, contract negotiations are underway between the village, the BBHoF and the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball,currentlycomposed of 10 teams, to host games at Doubleday Field.

To learn more about the FOD and their work, visit friendsofdoubleday.org.

The West Kortright Centre has received a $40,000 grant from the new York State Council on the Arts to support the recovery of the nonprofit arts and culture sector. Following new York State’s historic investment for the arts, nYSCA has awarded $90 million since spring 2022 to a record number of artists and organizations across the state.

Governor Kathy Hochul said, “As a cultural capital of the world, new York State is strengthened by our expansive coverage of the arts across all 62 counties. This year’s historic commitment to the arts sector will spur our continuing recovery from the pandemic and set the course for a stronger future.”

“We are immensely grateful to Governor Hochul and the Legislature for their unprecedented investment of $240 million to support arts organizations across the state,” said nYSCA Executive Director

Mara Manus. “new York State arts organizations such as The West Kortright Centre are the cornerstone of our vibrant arts economy. As crucial drivers of our health and vitality, we are grateful to the unwavering dedication of arts workers across the state.”

nYSCA Chair Katherine nicholls added, “On behalf of the entire council, I congratulate The West Kortright Centre on this grant award. Their creative work provides the benefits of the arts to both their community and all of new York. Arts organizations are essential, leading our tourism economy and fueling sectors such as hospitality, transit, and Main Streets across our state.”

For more information about The West Kortright Centre visit http://www. westkc.org , The West Kortright Centre’s Facebook page, or @westkortrightcentre on Instagram.

HOMETOWN Views

LIFE IN THE TIME OF COVID

Tread Lightly, Care and

Think

Every year the growth, and non-growth, of a variety of areas of interest—such as the economy, the population, bird migrations, immigration, wildfires, utilities, stocks, violence, college rankings, China and the like—are subject to intense research and interpretation. Inevitably, the results are published far and wide just after the last drop of the New Year’s ball.

One such fast-developing aspect of our life is our carbon footprint (CO2e), the total greenhouse gas emissions that trap and release heat, causing global warming. GHG is caused, directly and indirectly, by individuals, events, organizations, services, places or products. As these emissions enter the atmosphere they give rise to extreme precipitation, acidification and the warming of the oceans. Think climate change.

While CO2 is the gas most commonly emitted by humans and their interactions, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases are also present in our carbon footprint. Methane, in fact, is the most damaging gas. Released for the most part by the coal, oil, and natural gas industries, and secondarily by livestock and food decomposition, it is more harmful to our environment as it traps heat better than CO2.

It’s not a new phenomenon; our climate began changing in the 1820s with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. Human activities, including our reliance on fossil fuels (coal, the biggest culprit at 40 percent in 2022; oil, 32 percent; gas, 21 percent; and cement, 4 percent), energy usage and constant deforestation are among the main causes of these destructive greenhouse gas emissions.

At the United Nations Climate Change Summit last November, it was announced that in 2022 global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and land use increased by 0.8 percent, hitting a high of 40.5 billion tons. That number is up from 15.9 billion tons in 1959; 27.5 in 1990; and 30.3 in 2000; and slightly below the 2019 peak of 40.9 billion tons. This arguably smaller increase was driven by an increase in U.S., Indian and rest-ofthe world emissions; China declined slightly and the European Union remained largely unchanged. Research shows that there has been a slight decline in land-use emissions, which somewhat counters the uptick in fossil fuel emissions.

The global situation might have been worse. Many European governments reacted to the war in Ukraine by moving away from the use of fossil fuels; in the U.S., Congress approved $370 billion for wind turbines, solar panels and nuclear plants, hydrogen fuels and electric vehicles.

We can help too. Reducing our individual CO2e will help our grandchildren, and their grandchildren, live healthy and long lives.

• Fly less. A sharp upsurge in air flight, part of the 2022 pandemic recovery, resulted in an upsurge in fossil fuel emissions.

• Walk, bike, carpool, use mass transportation. Gas combustion-based transportation is the top source of greenhouse gases. Going carless for a year saves 2.6 tons of CO2.

• Purchase an electric vehicle.

• Cut down on meat. Beef gives off more than six pounds of CO2 per serving. A vegetarian serving gives off less than half a pound.

• Turn down heat.

• Turn down water heater.

• Turn off lights.

• Switch to LED lights.

• Wash clothes in cold water.

• Keep refrigerator at 53-58 degrees Fahrenheit and freezer at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Use Energy Star appliances.

• Recycle.

• Buy what you need, not what you want.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

“Hometown Oneonta” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper. They must include the writer’s name, address, email 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. The length must be no more than 250 words. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com.

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Tara Barnwell Publisher and Advertising Manager

Darla M. Youngs General Manager and Senior Editor Larissa Ryan Business Manager Ted Mebust Staff Writer

Editorial Board

Elinor Vincent, Michael Moffat, Tara Barnwell MEMBER OF National Newspaper Association, New York Press Association The Otsego County Chamber

Published weekly by Iron String Press, Inc. 21 Railroad Avenue, Cooperstown, NY 13326 Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. E-mail: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com

He’s Just ‘Mostly Dead’

Damar Hamlin in one sense is the luckiest undead person in the world. As probably almost all of you readers know, he is the Buffalo Bills player who went into ventricular fibrillation when he tackled an opposing player in the Bills-Bengals game on December 26 in Cincinnati. This was seen on national television by millions. He was successfully resuscitated on the field and rapidly transferred to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, which is the major teaching hospital in southwest Ohio. He has done so well that he was released from the intensive care unit at UCMC and transferred back to Buffalo on Monday.

Ventricular tachycardia is the most dangerous of the abnormal heart rhythms. It is the complete collapse of the ability of the ventricle of the heart to pump blood. Disorganized electrical activity causes the muscles of the heart to quiver rather than have a normal sequential beating, and pumping does not proceed.

Without very rapid, successful onset of treatment, death soon occurs. The probability of surviving v-fib is low, especially outside of a

CCCC Gives Thanks for Assistance

The Cooperstown Community Christmas Committee thanks everyone for making this holiday season a success. With your donations and participation, the village was decorated, Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty and Rudolf, the Hill City Ice Queens, and a host of Christmas trees and gingerbread men arrived at the cottage with the Otsego School of Dance performing for the crowd. A special shout out to: Coach Lambert and the Cooperstown Central School basketball team, Danny Hargrove, Cody Moore and her equestrian team, the Village Crew, Tin Bin Alley, the Pit, the Cider Mill, Leatherstocking Corp., Tallman Enterprises, Andrea House for cookies and hot chocolate, Lake and Valley Garden Club, Price Chopper, Cooperstown Fire Department, the Chamber of Commerce, and all our new young and energetic members—we couldn’t do it without all of you.

Have a safe and prosperous 2023, Cooperstown!

The Cooperstown Community Christmas Committee

Kudos Given for ‘Greetings’ Poem

My wife and I so enjoyed the “Greetings, Friends” poem in your recent edition; no apology to Roger Angell or “The New Yorker” necessary! We look forward to next year’s version.

Ben and Diana Friedell Oneonta

Further Thoughts on Schenevus Merger

We all know that emotions can often trump facts when dealing with heated issues that people care about. Despite this, I’d like to continuing sharing facts with the voters in the Schenevus Central School District, in desperation to improve our children’s educational programs and opportunities.

Right after I joined the school board in July 2018, our interim superintendent at the time informed us that the district was financially insolvent and

monitored episode in a hospital. Hamlin survived, and apparently without any neurological damage. This is due to the fact that there were more than 20 people almost instantaneously present who had prepared for and had rehearsed what to do if this situation occurred, even down to who would perform the CPR and how his uniform would be removed so that electrical cardioversion (electrical stimulation to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm) could be performed. Every member of that team knew exactly their role in the resuscitation. If one has to develop v-fib outside of a monitored event in a hospital, I can think of no better place for it to happen. Amazingly, not only did the medical teams of both the Bengals and Bills perform perfectly, almost

every other action that happened that night was on point. The game was halted and the announcers and sports reporters did not speculate. It immediately reminded me of how Jim McKay, the lead sportscaster of the 1972 Olympics, responded during the kidnapping and assassination of Israeli athletes from a terrorist attack.

ESPN had very respectful, somber discussion and admitted there was not much that could be said. The hospital did not hold a press conference and left the decision on the release of information to Hamlin’s family, which is the appropriate and legal thing to do (think HIPAA), but were ready to assist the family in this regard.

While I have counted at least 12 causes of v-fib, most either involving preexisting heart abnormalities or medical conditions, in my opinion the most likely was, in this case, commotio cordis. This is a condition in which v-fib occurs immediately due to an object (usually something small and hard like a baseball, lacrosse ball, or hockey puck, though in Hamlin’s case it was a body part of the other player) striking the chest directly Continued on page 6

we had no choice but to make some tough decisions moving forward, in order to ensure we were able to meet our public education state mandates. I was furious to learn how unfair and unequal our education system was and is. I was ready to protest in Albany and to fight for state aid that would equalize the educational opportunities our students deserve. I put forth a lot of effort in that advocacy, but my efforts went nowhere. We even have a state senator who lives in our district and we still can’t get state aid to equalize our education. This is no disrespect to our senator—it is simply to demonstrate how difficult it is to change New York State’s education system.

As we moved through the last four years and continued to learn about the bleak future facing the Schenevus district (fair or not), we were presented with an opportunity to improve our children’s educational opportunities and provide relief to our taxpayers. This, of course, was an annexation merger with Worcester. There are many folks who can’t seem to get past the word “annexation” because they see it as a take-over of Schenevus. It’s fine to be upset, frustrated, etc., at this thought, but it’s time to get over it. Folks kicking and screaming to vote no again in the upcoming vote (scheduled for February 15) should consider a few facts.

Under the new Board of Education, seen by many as heroes, did your taxes go up? They sure did. Did we lose programming? We sure did. Did we lose valued administrators who had been with the district for years? We did. Did we lose valued staff and teachers? Yes. Did we delay a capital project to fix a leaking roof and exterior brick walls that are going to crumble off because we can’t afford to fix them? The answer is yes.

A “no” vote will mean your taxes are going to continue going up. The former superintendent did a great job getting the budget under control but, in order to do that, programs were decimated. The only reason this isn’t glaringly obvious to everyone is because of the COVID-19 federal relief funds. When those run out, the picture won’t be so rosy and you

will see your taxes rise even higher. Right now, the number one class offered to students in Schenevus is study hall. There is a sixth-grader with two study halls. They are in band and chorus, too. Without band and chorus, this student would have four study halls in the sixth grade.

A “yes” vote will pump millions of state aid into a merged district. It will provide tax relief and it will improve the educational programs and opportunities for our students, which is so desperately needed. Our children deserve no less.

Stacie Haynes Westford

Cape Cod Water: a Cautionary Tale

Most septic systems are designed to remove solids and bacteria, not nitrogen and phosphorus. The harmful algae blooms, or HABs, in Otsego Lake are driven by two key nutrients: nitrogen and phosphorus.

Septic systems in the Otsego Lake watershed—including ones that are adjacent to the lake—may be leaking nitrogen and phosphorus into the soil, which may subsequently enter the lake, feeding a toxic bloom. Old-fashioned septic tanks are the culprits in other areas where HABs are becoming chronic.

Most of the housing on Cape Cod is on septic tanks—which can introduce nitrogen into the ponds and creeks, triggering HABs that have closed ponds for swimming and killed wildlife. Let that be a warning to Otsego: You’re sure to fall in love with old Cape Cod. Until you gag on the water.

Chip Northrup Cooperstown

Far Right Agenda a Real Concern

Everyone should be concerned about the new House majority, which can’t even select a Speaker without historic chaos.

The House of Representatives is now controlled by MAGA Republicans. According to “The

Ivan Potocnik Tom Heitz/Sharon Stuart Web Architect Historian

DR. RICHaRD STERNBERG

“There’s a big difference between mostly dead and all dead. Mostly dead is slightly alive.”

Miracle Max “The Princess Bride”

former president, Schenevus Central School Board of Education

LETTERS … IN THEIR OPINION

135 YEARS AGO

The Local News: Some sixteen of the ladies of the Universalist Sunday School in Mr. Tompkins’ Bible class met on Tuesday evening and organized a society to be known as the “Murray Club.” Miss May Whipple was elected president, Mrs. Charles Paul, vice-president, Miss Anna Haswell, secretary, and Miss Alta Price, treasurer. A committee on entertainment, consisting of Misses Carrie Campbell, Ethel Doolittle and Grace Green was appointed, and it is proposed through the means of sociable, entertainments, lectures, etc. to raise a fund to help build the new church.

The Guy Table Company has been moving their machinery to the new factory at the East End. The building has been constructed under the supervision of S.R. Barnes, and when in running order will be one of the best equipped and most complete table factories in the country. Last year there were upwards of 10,000 tables made by the company, double the number of the year previous. Next year it is estimated that fully 20,000 tables will be made.

January 1888

Nonprofit Breakfast the Template for Networking in 2023

On November 9, the Community Foundation of Otsego County, in collaboration with SUNYOneonta, brought 50 nonprofit organizations together in one room for its first “Nonprofit Breakfast” networking opportunity. The goal of the breakfast was to engage a diverse group in conversation about the future of Otsego County.

After an introduction from SUNY President Alberto Cardelle that highlighted the significance of our countywide charitable organizations—and an update from Danielle McMullen, chief of staff to the president, on microcredential programs at the college and how they can benefit nonprofits—CFOC Executive Director Jeff Katz explained to the enthusiastic audience what the goals were for the morning session.

110 YEARS AGO

Each table of nonprofit representatives and Community Foundation board members engaged in spirited talk that covered the needs of their individual organizations, the needs of Otsego County and what the goals should be to make it a better, more prosperous county for all residents. Each table presented to the full group a unique idea to pursue. The ideas ranged from countywide wayfinding signage to

MERL REAGLE

January 1913

90 YEARS AGO

Calvin Coolidge, president of the United States from August 3, 1923 to March 4, 1929, died suddenly today (January 5, 1933). He was 60 years old on July 4, 1932. President Coolidge was stricken with a heart attack as he was preparing to shave in a dressing room of his Northampton home “The Beeches.” He died alone. A few minutes later Mrs. Coolidge, returning from a shopping tour, found his body lying upon the floor. There was apparently no warning, and he died without suffering. His face was calm and bore no sign of pain. He had been dead about 15 minutes.

January 1933

70 YEARS AGO

The United States Senate Internal Security SubCommittee said yesterday there are hundreds of American school teachers who are Communists and who must be rooted out to protect future generations. In a 13-page report, the sub-committee recommended further investigation of Red influences in the nation’s schools and colleges. The report concludes: “Despite the unquestioned loyalty and self-sacrificing devotion to duty of the preponderant bulk of America’s teachers, there are yet many hundreds of teachers who are Communists.”

January 1953

highlight our natural resources for residents and visitors, to promoting youth farming through Agrarian Commons, to creating a hub to connect our nonprofits, and other ideas that would ensure a better future for Otsego County.

“It couldn’t have been better organized, more welcoming, attended, and productive. A true collaborative spirit prevailed among all,” said one attendee. “I came back feeling inspired by the many voices in the room and ready to help,” said another.

The CFOC plans to hold more of these events in 2023 to work toward building a stronger county through collaboration, communication and caring.

For more information on the Community Foundation of Otsego County, visit cfotsego.org.

Compiled by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art museum Research Library

Photo by Larry Bennett

Community foundation of otsego County executive Director Jeff Katz welcomes representatives from more than 50 otsego County nonprofits.

Hamlin

over the heart at exactly the right point, with the right force, exactly at the critical moment during a heartbeat.

The term, commotio cordis, is said to translate from Latin as agitation of the heart, though I like to think of it more literally as commotion of the heart. The period of the heartbeat when this can be initiated may be as small as one tenth of one percent of the cycle of the heartbeat. A small number of athletes, mostly amateur, die from this, or rather from lack of immediate on-field care of this, yearly. Since it involves highly localized trauma to the chest wall, mostly in athletes, this is often a young person’s diagnosis.

In any event, Hamlin must have been cardioverted very quickly. Six minutes of lack of oxygen causes permanent damage to the brain. Another indication that the cardioversion happened quickly is that only one person performed the CPR according to statements made before this past Sunday’s game.

Current CPR technique recommends, if available, that there is frequent changing of people doing the pumping, since it is very fatiguing. If only one person performed the CPR, it must not have been needed for long.

John Burgher 1957-2022

O n EO n TA—John Burgher passed away on December 24, 2022 at a Westchester County hospital. He was 65. John was born in Stamford, new York to parents Pearl and Ezra Burgher and attended Charlotte Valley Central School. He later worked at Rider farms, Gage’s Carpet, “The Daily Star” and Taylor’s gas station.

John was predeceased by his brother, Charles Burgher. He is survived by spouse, Lulu; eight children, Cheryl Rifenbark (Matthew), Kelly nafalski (Mike Cooper) Harry Smith (Amanda), Jason Burgher (Amanda), April Jarvis (Patrick), nikki Peace (nicholas), Elizabeth Miller, and Pamela Judd; 20 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; brothers Donald Burgher and Lewis Phelps; sister Rebecca Barber; and brother-in-law Jay Gage. Arrangements are entrusted to Johnston and Stanimer Funeral Home in Morris, new York. no funeral or calling hours are planned at this time.

Pamela Dawn Schmidt 1965-2023

OTSEGO COUnTY— Pamela Dawn Schmidt, 57, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at her home after a brief battle with cancer. Pam was born on May 24, 1965 in Sidney, the daughter of Roger and Patricia (Allen) Schmidt. She graduated from Sidney High School. She worked for ACCO Brands in Sidney and most recently in food service at A.O. Fox Hospital

One needs to acknowledge that the nFL, with the prodding of the Players’ Union, did the right thing in being so prepared for this emergency. Damar Hamlin was able to come back from “mostly dead.”

Post script: I am taking my CPR re-certification course tonight. Probably every person able to perform it should learn it.

Washington Post,” over 70 percent of House Republicans are election deniers, and they will use their power to enrich their corporate donors and advance their extreme agenda— including threatening our freedom to vote, criminalizing abortion, and cutting Social Security and Medicaid.

Judging by how the election for the Speaker of the House has gone, we should all be concerned about their ability to govern.

different,” Harry said. “Plus, being family-owned, we can keep our prices down.”

Prior to becoming a store owner, Harry was an intensive care unit nurse at Bassett Hospital.

“I’m always helping people. I tried to do my best with patients and their families. A while ago, my father came to me and asked for help. I left nursing and I came to Oneonta.”

“I always want to credit my father. It doesn’t matter where we are or what we are doing, we can’t forget about our background,” Harry stressed. “We would not be where we are without his vision, his sacrifices and his support.”

“Our philosophy is that we want to help our community grow; we cannot grow by ourselves. We are community builders that give back as much as we can,” Harry said.

Apple Express will open on Monday, January 16.

MAGA cronies like Kevin McCarthy, Jim Jordan, Steve Scalise, and Marjorie Taylor Greene have already indicated that their top priority in 2023 will be sham investigations into the Biden administration and other democracy defenders, including those charged with investigating the attack on the Capitol on January 6th.

We must call out their lies at every turn and combat their far-right agenda to protect our freedoms and our democracy in 2023.

Karen Richardson-Henley Milford

Freedoms, Democracy Must Be Protected

Two years after the deadly attack on our country on January 6th, 2021, it’s hard to ignore that the House of Representatives is now controlled by those who embraced and fueled Trump’s Big Lie.

According to “The Washington Post,” over 70 percent of all House Republicans are election deniers— 135 incumbents voted against certifying the 2020 election and at least 27 freshman members ran on the Big Lie. They might hold the title of “representative” but they have no intention of legislating on behalf of their constitu-

in Oneonta, where she met her companion, Chuck, the love of her life.

Pam loved taking pictures and would photograph just about everything. She enjoyed baking cookies, especially Christmas cookies, which she generously shared.

Pam is survived by her father, Roger E. Schmidt, and his companion, Barbara Cawley; brother Michael J. Schmidt and his wife, Judy; stepbrother Mark Schmidt and his wife, Takiya; nephew Konnor; niece Cady; her beloved companion and caregiver, Chuck, and his children, Carl Finch, Steven (Robbie) Finch, and Amanda Smith; as well as her favorite cat, Alley Cat, and dog nessie.

Pam was predeceased by her mother, Patricia; brother Blake; stepmother Dayle and beloved dog, Boomer.

A celebration of Pam’s life will be held on Saturday, January 14 from 4-6 p.m. at 607 Kilkenny Road, Unadilla. Share condolences and memories online at www.landersfh.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.

Mary Antionette Spettel

1932-2022

MOUnT VISIOn Mary Spettel, 91, of Mount Vision, passed away on Saturday December 31, 2022 peacefully with her children by her side.

She was born on november 22, 1932 to Joseph and Antoinette Giglio in Oneonta, new York. She was a graduate of Oneonta High School and went on to work at the

Serving Side By Side

Office, Vet Centers are

that provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional counseling to eligible veterans, service members including national Guard and Reserve components, and their families. To learn more, visit https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/. Shown above, from left, are Sheriff Richard Devlin, Jason Davis, Phil Couse and Cornell Morris.

ents. Their top priority in the House will be sham investigations into the Biden administration and those who actually defended our democracy. We must speak truth to power in the face of all their lies. I’m pledging to do everything I can to protect our freedoms and our democracy against the House’s extremist attacks—I hope others will join me.

Also, it’s okay to agree to disagree.

Marie Stallone Maryland

Correction

In last week’s publication, we incorrectly reported the location of Allen Schery’s former Corvette Americana Museum. While it did reside along Route 28, the building that once housed the museum is south of the Cooperstown Commons and currently occupied by Bassett Healthcare.

OBITUARIES

Credit Bureau of Oneonta for close to 50 years. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Louis Spettel, and went on to have two children residing in Oneonta. They were married for 56 years until his death in 2013.

Mary loved Christmas, hosting many a Christmas Eve party over the years, making sure to have a gift for every person that came through her door. She was a very giving and generous soul. She also took great pleasure in frequenting area casinos when the chance presented itself. Her favorite pastime though, when she was alone, was reading. She loved to surround herself with all of her books, even making her husband designate an entire room in their home to them.

She was a loving mother and grandmother. She was also a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She loved her family most of all. She will be greatly missed.

She was predeceased by her husband, Louis, her parents, and all of her four brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her

children, Louis Stephen Spettel and his wife, Kelly, of Mount Vision, new York and Margaret Barker and her husband, Bill, also of Mount Vision; her grandchildren, Corey Spettel (Ticheme Harris), Ian Spettel, Cassidy and Derrick Anderson, and Christopher Barker; two great-grandchildren, Madaline and Derrick Anderson; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 6 at the Lester R Grummons Funeral Home, 14 Grand Street, Oneonta, new York.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Laurens’ Emergency Squad, PO Box 164, Laurens, nY 13796.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. grummonsfuneralhome. com for the Spettel family.

Jean Wright 1928-2023

O n EO n TA—Jean Wright, 94, of Oneonta passed away on January 5, 2023 after a brief illness.

Jean was born on February 10, 1928 in Oneida, the daughter of the late Lila and neil Thorpe. She attended norwich High School.

She married Edward Thomas Wright on September 16, 1946. Ed predeceased her on May 4, 2018. Jean and Ed had four children, Jody (Glenn) Kusant, Thomas (June) Wright, Donna Cole Coon, and Teresa (Bill) Kusant; and 10 grandchildren, Jennifer (Delbert) Potter, April Wright, Ashlee Morse, Brian (Lisa) Cole, Kasey Cole (Maria Manna), Thomas Luciani, Tessa Luciani Vereen, Katilyn (Kevin) Bettcher, Emilie Kusant, and William (Katherine) Kusant; and several great-grandchildren.

Jean worked in the Bainbridge and Guilford elementary cafeterias. She then worked for dentist, Dr. Fred, and neil Rothman in Sidney. She then returned to the Bainbridge-Guilford School District and drove

school bus.

After retirement, Jean and Ed enjoyed traveling. Jean liked knitting and crocheting. When she moved to Oneonta she loved playing Bingo and dice. She remained an active reader her whole life.

Jean was predeceased by her brothers, Robert and Richard Thorpe.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. in the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, 14 Grand Street, Oneonta, with Pastor Joel Shue officiating.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Jean’s memory may be made to either Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Suite 1, Oneonta, nY 13820, www.helioscare.org, or to the charity of one’s choice.

To send the family an online condolence, please visit www.grummonsfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are by the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, Oneonta.

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home

14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

Dignified and Caring Service since 1925 Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings.

Peter A.

82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown | 607-547-8231 www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com

Grandma loved her farm, her family, and playing her old guitar.

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home will take the time to find out what made your loved one special. Whether it’s finding just the right flowers, or finding a musician to play her favorite tunes on her old guitar, we’ll do what’s necessary to make her service as unique as she was.

Deysenroth

Funeral Home

Photo provided

COOPERSTOWn—The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office welcomed Otsego County Veterans’ Service Agency Director Phil Couse, Binghamton Vet Center Director Cornell Morris and Vet Center Veteran Outreach Program Specialist Jason Davis recently, to learn more about services available for veterans and to receive literature and contact information for department patrols. According to a recent release from the Sheriff’s

community-based counseling centers

MLK Birthday celebrated

OnEOnTA—The Oneonta Area national Association for the Advancement of Colored People will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday with a “Let’s Fulfill the Dream” event on January 15. All are invited to this free, one-hour program at the First United “Red Door” Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Avenue.

Local leaders, musicians, college students, and scholars will honor Dr. King’s legacy with statements, readings, and musical performances.

Oneonta Area nAACP’s Vice President Michelle Osterhoudt will open the event at 3 p.m. Her welcoming remarks will be followed by a statement by Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek. Among the program’s oral performances will be: SUnY Oneonta History Emeritus Professor Dr. Bill Simon’s statement on anti-Semitism; Andrew Puritz’s recitation of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream”; and SUnY Oneonta student Jordan Forbes’ reading of excerpts from Dr. King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”

Musical performances will include: “Rise Above” by soprano Yolanda Bush and pianist Tim Iversen; “I Thank God I’m Free at Last” by tenor Ric Chrislip and pianist Timothy Horne; and “We Shall Overcome,” sung by the audience. The program will conclude with the Rev. Dr. Kenneth G. Simurro’s benediction and birthday cake for those who want to mingle and catch up with friends.

‘State of State’ event Jan. 20

OnEOnTA—The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold a State of the State networking Breakfast on Friday, January 20 from 8-11 a.m. at SUnY Oneonta’s Otsego Grill in Morris Hall. Panelists

include Assemblyman Brian Miller, Assemblyman Chris Tague, Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek, Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, County Administrator Steve Wilson and County Treasurer Allen Ruffles.

The event will feature breakfast, networking, meet and greet opportunities, and a question and answer session. Topics to be discussed are the state of Otsego County, the work being done by elected officials in local, county, state, and federal government, and legislation and initiatives that may affect local businesses.

Reservations—required by Monday, January 16—are $20 per Otsego County Chamber member and $40 per nonmember. Contact Katrina Van Zandt at (607) 432-4500, extension 2 to secure a spot.

Flu case total Higher in ‘22

OTSEGO COUnTY—In an update issued on December 20, the Otsego County Department of Health reported “an unprecedented” 435 influenza cases since October 1 of last year versus a total of 242 cases for the entire season from October 2021 to September 2022. According to officials, “This season, flu seems to be causing illness in children 18 and younger at a higher rate than those 18 and over.” Statistics by age group for Otsego County are: 19.1 percent of reported cases in 0-5 year olds; 24.8 percent in 6-10 year olds; 19.1 percent in 11-18 year olds; 19.1 percent in 19-50 year olds; and 13.8 percent in those 51 and older. The Otsego County DoH advises that everyone 6 months and older be vaccinated. Call (607) 5474230 for more information.

cFM Unveils challenge

COOPERSTOW n —Highlighting the vibrant community of farmers and artisans producing throughout the cold months, the

Cooperstown Farmers’ Market “Hardy Locavore” challenge will reward shoppers at its Winter Saturday Markets. By shopping 10 times at the farmers’ market through March 25, people will receive a free cotton canvas box tote. Hardy Locavore punch cards will be available at the market welcome table. Once a purchase has been made, shoppers should bring their card to Market Manager Karrie Larsson or a farmers’ market volunteer to note participation. The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, located in Pioneer Alley at 101 Main Street, is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays yearround. For more information, go to cooperstownfarmersmarket. org or call (607) 547-6195.

Bald eagles are Focus of Outing

O n EO n TA—DelawareOtsego Audubon Society will lead a field trip for DOAS members to view wintering bald eagles around the Delaware County rivers and reservoirs on Saturday, January 14. Preregistration is required via the DOAS website, https://doas. us/events/eagle-viewing-tripfor-doas-members/. For further information, contact Andy Mason at (607) 652-2162 or andymason@earthling.net.

Workshop Free to Farmers

OTSEGO COUnTY—The Cornell Cooperative Extension Agritourism Program Work Team has organized a free webinar workshop series aimed at farmers, food entrepreneurs, horse-farm owners and other agribusinesses that would like to expand and grow their revenues by moving from purely agricultural operations to developing an entertainment farm for the public to enjoy.

During the workshops, industry experts will discuss tactics such as connecting with visitors through strategic

marketing, zoning regulations, risk management, pricing and growing a customer base, and scaling up to build a successful entertainment farm business. Topics for the monthly lunchhour sessions are: January 17: What is Agritourism and Starting an Agritourism Business

February 20: Where is Agritourism Allowed?

March 20: Protecting Your Agritourism Operation: Liability and Insurance April 17: Customer Service for Agritourism May 15: Tax Considerations for Agritourism June 19: Pricing—Figuring Out What Your Customers Will Bear

July 17: Marketing Your Agritourism Operation August to December topics will be released later this year. Participants can join the entire series or select topics of their interest. Pre-registration is required at https://cornell. zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIsce6tqDMuGddOrjKOe3k0mXCypafV0oao. Contact Lindsey Pashow at lep67@cornell.edu or (518) 569-3073 with any questions.

integrity of the game through rules enforcement. Schohanna umpires come from all walks of life, including teachers, postal employees, police, small business owners, administrators and business managers.

For more information, contact Steven Andrews at (607) 287-3537 or visit www. schohannaumpires.org.

ensemble takes to the Stage

OnEOnTA—Little Delaware Youth Ensemble is preparing for its two annual winter concerts. The first performance will be held on Sunday, January 15 at 3 p.m. in Hartwick College’s Anderson Theater in Oneonta. Then, the group will take the stage once more on Sunday, January 22 at 3 p.m. at United Ministry of Delhi, 1 Church Street, Delhi.

Music director Uli Speth leads

the string orchestra and Debrah Devine conducts the preparatory orchestra in a program that spans from Mendelssohn to the theme music for “Super Mario.” The concert is free, and children and families are welcome. LDYE is the region’s acclaimed teaching ensemble for string musicians from ages 6-18. More information is available at the organization’s web page, ldye.org, or by calling (917) 902-9301.

WE WANT YOUR NEWS!

Promotions, births, meetings, new hires, events, grand openings, milestones, and more. Photos welcome, too. info@allotsego.com

LegaL nOtice

PUBLIC NOTICE OF LAW

nOTICE is hereby given that the Board of Representatives of the County of Otsego at a meeting thereof held on the 4th day of January 2023, duly adopted a Local Law entitled: A Local Law establishing the salaries of Public Defender, County Attorney (PT), County Auditor/Clerk of the Board, Director Real Property Tax Service II, Director of Public Health, County Sheriff, County Superintendent of Highways, Commissioner of Social Services Group I, Personnel Officer, Commissioner of Elections (Rep), County Treasurer, County Clerk for the year 2023, which is subject to permissive referendum.

This Local Law establishes the following salaries for 2023:

Public Defender $120,000 County Attorney (PT) $90,645 County Auditor/ Clerk of the Board $87,693 Director of Real Property Tax Service II $87,693 Director of Public Health $106,108 County Sheriff $96,500 County Superinten-

dent of Highways $100,803 Commissioner of Social Services Group I $122,555 Personnel Officer $103,697 Commissioner of Elections (Rep) $62,890 County Treasurer $97,000 County Clerk $81,000

The full text of this Local Law is available for inspection in the Clerk of the Board’s Office in the County Office Building, Cooperstown, new York during regular business hours and is also available on the County’s website.

Dated: January 12, 2023

Carol D. McGovern Clerk of the Board of Representatives Otsego County, new York

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

nOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEn that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearing in the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, new York on Monday, January 23, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard, to discuss the following:

A Public Hearing to increase the rate of paid parking to $2.50 per hour, payable in ½ increments, increase all-day parking at Doubleday Field parking lot to $15 per day, and change the dates of the paid parking season to begin on May 1st.

Any resident of the Village of Cooperstown is entitled to be heard upon said Special Use permit application at such public hearing. Disabled citizens, who require assistance in attending said public hearings, or in furnishing comments or suggestions, should contact the Village Clerk to request assistance. A copy of the proposed application is available for inspection at the Village Clerk’s office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, new York during normal business hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dated: January 10th, 2023

By order of the Village Board Village of Cooperstown

Jenna L. Utter

Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, nY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone)

jutter@cooperstownny.org (email)

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Geoffrey Foster, LLC.

Articles of Org. were filed with the nYS Sec’y State on 01/03/2023.

The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The nYS Sec’y of State has been designated as agent for service of process against the LLC. nYS Sec’y of State shall mail a copy of any such process to the LLC at: 383 Pink Street, Cooperstown, nY 13326.

The purpose of the LLC shall be general.

6LegalFeb.16

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

Johnson Contracting & Trucking LLC.

Filed 5/4/22. Office: Otsego Co. SSnY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Po Box 492, Cooperstown, nY 13326. Registered Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave, Ste 202, Bklyn, nY 11228.

Purpose: General.

6LegalFeb.16

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

Umpires

called to Meet in Feb.

OnEOnTA—The Schohanna Board of Baseball and Softball Umpires will hold its first meeting for the upcoming highschool and summer seasons on Sunday, February 5 at 9 a.m. All current and prospective umpires are advised to attend this organizational meeting, which will take place in the Hodgdon Instructional Resources Center, Lecture Hall 5, at SUnY Oneonta.

The Schohanna Board of Baseball/Softball Umpires officiates games in Otsego and Delaware counties. The group is dedicated to the training and development of professional umpires to ensure the safety of players and to uphold the

LEGALS

A NY LIMITEd LIABILITY COMPANY

name:

V&H RAnCH LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSnY) was 6 January 2023. 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 20 W Main St, Milford, nY 13807.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under nYS laws.

6LegalFeb.16

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF DAnTE’S PIZZERIA, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the nY Secretary of State on 11/28/22.

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 him to: The LLC, 416 1/2 Chestnut St., Oneonta, nY 13820.

The purpose of the

LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. 6LegalFeb.9 LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Optimize Advertise LLC.

Filed 7/21/22. Office: Otsego Co. SSnY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 1541 Mckoons Rd, Richfield Springs, nY 13439. Registered Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave Ste 202, Brooklyn, nY 11228.

Purpose: General. 6LegalFeb.2

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE

OF FORMATION OF Dragonfli Properties, LLC

Articles of Organization were filed with the nY Secretary of State on 7/5/22.

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 him to: The LLC, 1826 E. Parkridge Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84121.

The purpose of the

LC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. 6LegalFeb.2 LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Smol Fish Digital LLC

Arts of Org. filed SSnY 10/17/22, Otsego Co. SSnY design agent for process & shall mail to Zenbusiness Inc. 41 State St #112 Albany, nY 12207 General Purpose 6LegalJan.19

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Cutting the Cheese LLC.

Filed 11/4/22 Office: Otsego Co. SSnY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 155 Dorr Edson Rd, Oneonta nY 13280 Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJan.19

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF ZROWKA’S CREEKSIDE FARMS LLC.

Art of Org. filed with the SSnY on 12/05/2022. Office: Otsego County.

SSnY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSnY shall mail copy of

process to the LLC, LEGALCORP SOLUTIOnS 1060 Broadway Suite 100 ALBAnY, nY 12204

Purpose: Any lawful purpose 6LegalJan.19

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Brooks’ Roost, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the nY Secretary of State on 11/28/22.

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, 5560 State Highway 7, Oneonta, nY 13820.

The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act.

6LegalJan.12

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF TRUCK RECORDS LLC,

Arts. of Org. filed with the SSnY on 11/30/2022.

Office loc: Otsego County.

SSnY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSnY shall mail process to: 10 Davis Dr Oneonta, nY 13820.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

6LegalJan.12

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITEd LIABILITY COMPANY:

The name of the limited liability company is: MLD Dermatology, PLLC (the “Company”). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was november 21, 2022.

The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County.

The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Company, to Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, Attn: Christopher L. Roma, 80 Exchange Street, Ste 700, Binghamton, nY 13901.

The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.

6LegalJan.12

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Heart of the House: Uncle Harry’s Gift of Conversion a Godsend

In 1932, my Uncle Harry graduated from new York’s City College with a degree in aeronautical engineering. For more than a year he tried to get a job in that field but, likely due to the Great Depression, he was unsuccessful. So, he turned to the heating business where thousands of homes and industrial buildings were converting to oil to take the place of coal, which was messy and, in most cases, required a lot of physical labor. Maybe it was for practice or maybe he was just being a good son, but one of his first installations was in my grandmother, Fanny’s, drafty, 12 room “country” house in Brooklyn, where he converted a coal burning steam boiler to an oil fired system.

Up until then, Mr. Lowman, a carpenter from Germany who occupied a room he had built in the basement, would take care of the heating system. My grandfather, Charles, had employed him to enclose the front porch, build a pantry in back of the house and a small barn which would house a horse that would be used for Sunday buggy rides. But Charles died of pneumonia just before the work was completedn and from then on hard times seemed to set in. Fanny began to rent out rooms but she could no longer afford to employ Mr. Lowman, who stayed on anyway. On weekends he’d travel to Hoboken, new Jersey, to spend time with friends from the old country. When he’d return in a merry

mood in the wee hours of the morning, he’d shovel coal onto the feeble fire then drop into bed and loudly “di diddle dum” his imaginary violin until he fell asleep. Once, he got into some bad drink, wound up in the hospital and eventually went blind. My father went to see Mr. Lowman shortly before the old carpenter died. Then Grandma was the one who often had to split wood and shovel coal into the boiler when none of her seven sons were available. So, Uncle Harry’s gift of a conversion was a godsend—not that oil heat was able to warm the old Victorian comfortably—just keep it from

freezing on bitter cold days while occupants hugged the banging but soon to cool steam radiators. Like a failing heart, the old boiler intermittently pumped steam through the house’s circulatory system while burning two gallons of oil an hour.

Long before my grandmother passed away, my father took over care of the boiler which had once been Mr. Lowman’s job. But Dad was more of a

musician than a mechanic and did little to maintain and lessen the consumption of oil—except when he turned down the thermostat, which made wearing a night cap when you went to sleep a good idea. Fortunately, the inefficiency of the old boiler was buffered by the fact that Uncle Harry’s Peerless Fuel Oil Company supplied oil to the house at a wholesale price.

Years later, and yet a long time ago, I took over the heating job after Dad was gone and—because I had worked for and learned from Uncle Harry—I made several improvements to the boiler that made it a lot more efficient. I lined the combustion chamber with new fire bricks, stripped the loose asbestos, mixed it with water and reapplied it. I eliminated a hot water storage tank and replaced it with an instantaneous coil. This reduced the amount of water that had to be boiled to make steam by 30 gallons. One might say I gave the boiler a bypass. now, heat would be generated and circulate through the house in a fraction of the time it had taken before—and using a lot less oil. Dad would have been delighted.

Fired up, the boiler builds a head of steam as my grandmother in her double knit maroon wool sweater hugs a radiator, my dad holds onto his night cap and Mr. Lowman feeds a shovel full of coal into a memory.

Kale and Gladiola Thoughts Lead to Reflections on Humankind

From my study window I can just make out the withered, bedraggled remains of one of our kale plants. Otherwise, all is snow-mantled and covered up and tucked in for the winter. Down in the barn, where I hung out for a few minutes yesterday staring at the bundled glad bulbs drooping from nails in the rafter, my thoughts turned to, well, the indescribably self-destructive instincts that humanity insists on turning upon itself. not all that sure what dry glad bulbs and weather-beaten kale have to do with humankind’s worst inflictions upon itself, but there must be some sort of synaptic thing going on because I often find myself ruminating on things existential when in the company of produce. It reminds me of the time quite a few years ago that I voiced an interest in attending a Buddhist retreat of some sort. My better half nixed that idea by reminding me, as if I did not know it, that I was strange enough already—no need to feed the beast.

So, what existential conundrums might I be thinking about? Frankly, nothing much about human behavior surprises me anymore. I remain optimistic about our chances of pulling out of the many quagmires in which we seem intent on drowning ourselves. But a hell of a tough road lies ahead if this species will, as Faulkner put it years ago, prevail. Probably not in my lifetime. But like most parents and grandparents, the nature of the world our kids will inherit is worthy of concern.

In the normal course of our planetary lives, there are floods, fires, famines and a whole host of natural occurrences that plague us and often take many lives. This lovely globe of ours provides us with a wealth of natural disasters that test our survival skills. Through our collective ingenuity we manage to get by, even improve the state of things. Despite this array of normally occurring challenges, we insist on remaining

our own worst enemies. We fight each other over religion. One country decides to take over another by destroying it. We devote money and resources not to finding ways of making sure that everyone has a chance to live a good life, but to build bombs and drones and tanks and missiles that kill indiscriminately. In this regard, Russia’s senseless invasion of Ukraine stands out as the most vivid example, but looking around the world, it is easy to find egregious examples of humankind’s propensity toward cruelty, even downright barbarism. It is easy to suggest that we get our collective act together, but that is not enough. The good news is that more good people are doing the work that needs to be done than the bad, who seem to crowd the newspaper headlines every morning. Of course, the press, especially the TV people, loves nothing more than glorifying the negative. news has become little more than self-serving drama.

Peace on earth is a noble goal for which to strive. One thing I know for sure is that workable, viable solutions rest not on the shoulders of egomaniacal politicians, but within the hearts and minds and actions of individuals, each one of us finding ways to contribute in some small way to our collective weal. It is possible to care deeply about one’s own life and family and friends while at the same time doing something to help others. I have no idea how to subdue the powers of evil that exist now and probably always will.

There is no question in my mind that there are just some people and groups for whom evil and the will to power are their only moral fuel. But drones and missiles and tanks will not win the day. Only individuals like you and me can bring about meaningful change by virtue of our actions and the ways in which we conduct our daily lives. Forget the Beltway.

Family Photos, Geneology Are Mysteries Waiting To Be Solved

At a recent garage sale in Cooperstown, I purchased an old frame with a woman’s photo in it. not known to the seller, he said to me, “instant relative.”

As I returned home, I got to wondering about the woman and her story, which of course has been lost to time. She is part of the “unknowns,” and our historical society, like many others, has numerous photos of people who, like her, are in limbo from lack of identification.

I love garage-saling and will, from time to time, see photos like this on a table for sale. I usually go over and encourage the folks to look deeper and perhaps donate the photos to their own historical society. The identifiers on the photos can provide clues—a hand-scribbled name, or a location of a photo studio— neither of which this photo has. now we have to get out the magnifying glass and see if there is a pin, button or perhaps another clue to her identity, such as a ring. There are no “props” in the photo I purchased, and she wears a plain hairstyle, pulled back. She’s dressed in black, so this could be

a photo taken after the passing of her husband. She has her jaw set in a determined manner, and we can only guess at her personality. The woman appears to be about 30 years of age. Her clothing indicates the early 1900s, perhaps. That’s about it.

We can only guess at her story. Did she remarry? Why is she hiding her hands? Are they perhaps worn with hard work or sewing, to make ends meet? Did she have a connection to the

family who sold the frame, or did she just end up there as a result of some other connection, perhaps to her husband’s family? So much is unknown, and a mystery which may never be solved.

The Internet provides a lot of tutorials and examples of period clothing to help date photographs, but dating can also be done by examining the photograph itself. Daguerreotypes, silver clad copper sheets, date from 1839 to the 1850s. The use of ambrotypes, photos printed on glass plates with iodized collodion, begin about 1854 and tintypes, those on iron plate instead of glass, were used from 1856 to about the 1870s (and up to the early 20th century as a novelty). Carte de visite photographs, thin paper mounted on a thicker paper card, were available after 1859.

Thanks to the advent of DnA testing, genealogy is now one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. People are finding lost relatives, and adopted family members, via DnA by connecting on Ancestry.com.

Family photos and genealogy are mysteries just waiting to be

solved. For the most part, though, we eventually reach a “brick wall” where we can go no further, for one reason or another, without incredible persistence. The best thing to do is to start with what you know, develop a paper trail outlining what you were told or believe, then work backward— recognizing that some family “lore” is true and some isn’t— and be open to the outcome.

Today’s photos are mostly all digital, taken with a phone and saved onto someone’s computer. Before the advent of the cell phone, we took physical photos and pasted those in a book which was dragged out periodically and enjoyed. Those days now seem a part of the distant past.

What will your legacy be to future generations? Will you have photos preserved or thrown in a box with no markings, only to end up at a yard sale or in the trash?

If you have old photographs and would like your local historical society to have access to them, you can have those photos scanned, keeping the originals and providing copies on a disk or thumb drive for the society’s use. The local historical society can

also keep a record of your basic genealogy, if you have one. Most libraries provide access to the Ancestry Library Edition and you can provide a basic genealogy to your historical society to assist others in their search for lost family members. Cemetery and church records are increasingly being digitized and made searchable online to show where folks are buried. Often entire families were laid to rest in family plots, which aids in identifying children and even nearby in-laws.

We are all searching for something more about ourselves. Where did our ancestors come from and what prompted them to cross the ocean, many of them stuck in steerage for months? They left family behind in the old country, perhaps never to see them again. They left famine, fear, political oppression, religious persecution and war behind to build a better life in America. Knowing and preserving their story is important and—while you’re at it—you can shape your own.

Maureen Culbert is vice president of the

Springfield Historical Society.

hawthorn hill journal richard derosa

Photos provided

terry berkson’s grandmother’s drafty, 12 room “country” house in brooklyn was serviced by a coal burning steam boiler (inset), later converted by his uncle harry into an oil fired system.

the unKnowns

maureen culbert

Photo provided old photos may provide clues that help identify their subjects.

LOCALS: PEOPLE & BUSInESSES In THE nEWS

A BUNDLE OF JOY: Born at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown on December 13, Alara Yasmine Jean Imtiaz—at 6 pounds 10 ounces and 20 inches—was welcomed by parents Ariel and Farhan Imtiaz of South Kortright, siblings Ayaan, Faris, and Aidin, and grandparents Mehmooda Yasmin Imtiaz and Marianna and Michael Costakis of Long Island. Photo provided

SOUTH FINGER LAKE SCHOLARS: Two students from Worcester—Maya Powers and Willow Tompkins—were named to the Dean’s List for Academic Achievement for this fall’s term at Elmira College. Qualifying students earned a term grade point average of 3.60 or higher and were registered for 12 credit hours. Elmira College is ranked nationally as a top college for student internships and their Center for Mark Twain Studies is one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the U.S.

AUSPICIOUS ACQUISITION: Digital printing and document service Dataflow has acquired Edmeston-based Prolifiq Sign Studio, increasing the latter’s ability to serve more businesses in upstate new York. Prolifiq Sign Studio, established in 2006, provides interior and exterior printing services, producing signage products and decals for wrapping vehicles and boats. Dataflow has production facilities across upstate new York and is the exclusive area partner of RMX network, a system of more than 100 independently owned print businesses across the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

SKILLED SWIMMERS: John Hodgson, Cooperstown Central School’s varsity girl’s swimming coach, was named All-Mohawk Valley Coach of the Year for the 2022 fall season. In addition, CCS swimmers Emily Kane and Caitlin O’Sullivan were selected to the All-Mohawk Valley Team, with Kane securing Player of the Year honors. The selections were made through voting from coaches and input from “Observer-Dispatch” and “Times Telegram” sportswriters.

AWESOME ACCOMPLISHMENT: Springbrook recognized the 15-year career milestone mark of Gordon Mumbulo, their assistant director for community homes in the Sidney Plains Region.

BOLSTERING BUSINESSES: Hartwick area digital marketing advisor Susan O’Handley announced a series of new programs, called Bits & Bytes, promoted by Central nY Mobile Marketing and starting in this month. O’Handley’s One-Day Digital Marketing Service aims to help small business owners achieve their marketing goals by offering expertise for a one-day trial, available during January, February and March. “Tech Talks with Susan” offer free, informal Zoom meetings from 8-8:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month, starting on January 12, discussing digital marketing strategies. Finally, the Central nY Mobile Marketing Bits & Bytes blog will offer helpful resources and articles on marketing.

THE EYES HAVE IT: Dr. Shannon Toomey Belanger recently joined the staff of Costello Eye Physicians and Surgeons at its Oneonta location. Belanger received her Bachelor of Science degree at Syracuse University. She went on to receive her doctorate degree at The Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating with multiple scholastic scholarships and awards, she went on to do a family practice residency specializing in pediatrics at northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Dr. Belanger was able to perform laser and minor surgical procedures as a resident and spent time working in the hospital caring for all ocular emergencies. Passionate about connecting with patients and helping them achieve comfortable vision, she is proficient in all areas of optometry including glaucoma management, macular degeneration, dry eye disease, diabetic eye exams and primary care. Dr. Belanger lives in Oneonta with her three kids and is an active resident in the community. In her spare time, she enjoys running, hiking, photography and spending time outdoors with her goldendoodle, Lulu.

READING ROCK STARS: Milford Central School announced its 2022 Summer Reading Challenge Winners to be Willow Atkinson (Grade 2), Evie Reder (Grade 2), and Reagan Wellman (Grade 1). Each student received a $20.00 gift card to the Green Toad Bookstore in Oneonta. Held amongst students in grades pre-kindergarten through two and three through six, the Summer Reading Challenge was hosted by the Milford Free Library and the new York Public Library system in collaboration with Milford Central School. The theme of the challenge, which encouraged students to grow their love of reading, was “Oceans of Possibilities,” with the hope of galvanizing interest in the ocean, environmentalism and adventures at sea.

POPPIN’ POP-UP: Though the new Pioneer Street-based pop-up shop “Love and a Truck Collective”—a vintage rental and creative company in Cooperstown—plans to operate through February 28, they have received enough interest to consider staying longer. The company’s name derives from a saying that owners Mike and Kelly newell would exclaim after one of their numerous adventures in the Toyota Tacoma they drove during each trip. The shop will be bringing in vintage furniture, vintage travel ephemera and “Love and a Truck Co.” merchandise, such as sweatshirts, T-shirts, decals, bandanas,

Small Gifts Have Big Meaning

GRAnD GORGE—Otsego northern Catskills BOCES Board of Education members were celebrated recently for School Board Appreciation Month. Current President Antoinette Hull and Vice President Joseph Ballard are joined by board members Dr. Deborah Fox, Kurt Holcherr, Cynthia Kukenberger, Collin Miller, Jaqueline Parry, Timothy Powell, and Al Rubin in ensuring that OnC BOCES provides the best services possible to its students, component districts, and community. In celebration of School Board Appreciation Month, three classes at OnC BOCES collaborated to create gifts for the board members. Miniature cornhole games were built by Daniel Amos’ Building Trades students at the Otsego Area Occupational Center, including Cameron Rogers at bottom right. Lindy Lapin’s Visual Communications class at the northern Catskills Occupational Center—represented at top right by naleia Burroughs—created the OnC logos to put on the boards and, for finishing touches, Amy Schmitt’s Career Pathways students made miniature beanbags.

and more in the new year. They operate in collaboration with

photography prints. In the coming weeks, Love and a Truck Co.

makers and artists and host “Sip + Shop” events, having already had

latter. The newells, who have family based in Jefferson, new York, looks forward to connecting with the local community and supporting business entrepreneurship with networking nights and gatherings in 2023. To learn more about Love and a Truck Co., visit loveandatruck.com.

Photos provided

Kurt Holcherr, Antoinette Hull, Cynthia Kukenberger, ONC BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Catherine Huber, Jaqueline Parry, Dr. Deborah Fox, Timothy Powell and Joseph Ballard. Not pictured: board members Collin Miller and Al Rubin.

N A l E i A Bu RRO ug HS

C AMERON R O g ERS

Remarkable Review

COOPERSTOWn—Cooperstown Elementary School employee Tammi Lindroth-Kelly, having served 23 years as an aide and advocate for special needs students, retired on Thursday, December 22. School staff saw her off with song, cheer and a trolley ride full of family, friends, and CCS retirees. Set to the tune of “Jingle Bells,” “Tammi’s Retirement Song” concluded with the phrase, “Time to go, time to go, time to go today! Hop on your trolley and let’s be jolly, on your retirement day!”

Photos by Ted Mebust

Mikala Gallo, who sells

hopes to highlight local

success with the

Photo provided DR. SHANNON TOOMEY BE l AN g ER

SENIOR MEALS 11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal. Suggested donation is $3.50 for seniors, $8.60 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy an omelet, hash browns, sausage patty, muffin and a fruit cup. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (607) 547-6454.

BLOOD DRIVE Noon to 5 p.m. Save up to three lives with the American Red Cross. Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick College Drive, Oneonta. Register at redcrossblood.org

SENIOR GAMES 12:302:30 p.m. Seniors are invited to play games with the Otsego County Council of Senior Citizens each Monday and Thursday, including cards, cribbage, puzzles, and more. Held at the Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com

PHOTO BOOKING 1:302:30 p.m. Seniors are invited to learn about the current trend of digital photo books with Heather Amendolare. Learn about the vendors, how to upload photos, select a layout and choose between custom or let the company do the work. Hosted by the Otsego County Council of Senior Citizens at the Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com

►Friday, Jan. 13

TEEN ZONE 7-10 p.m. Students in grades 7-12 are invited for a fun night of games and activities each Friday. Games range from air hockey to Xbox games to board games and more. Held at The Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs.

►s aTurday, Jan. 14

FIELD TRIP 7:30 a.m.

Join the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society for a trip to view over-wintering bald eagles in the reservoirs and waterways of Delaware County. Pre-registration required. Meet in the Dietz Street Parking Lot, Oneonta. (607) 652-2162.

INVASIVE SPECIES 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join the class to learn about the importance of the hemlock tree and the life cycle of the hemlock wooly adelgid, which has ravaged hemlock populations from Georgia to Maine. Following the class, the group will move outside to learn how to survey trees for HWA. The Otsego County Conservation Association is seeking volunteers to participate in tree surveys throughout the winter. Be prepared to spend 1+ hours outdoors. Held at the Morris Firehouse (use back entrance), 117 Main Street, Morris. (607) 547-4488.

ART WORKSHOP 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join artist Celia Buchanan for a fun mixedmedia workshop exploring techniques using stencils, watercolors, resist methods and more, all while maintaining a stable piece that will last. Headwaters Arts Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford. (607) 214-6040.

LINE DANCE Noon to 1 p.m. Join the Line Dance “Fitnezz” Class to get in shape and meet new people. Open to all from beginners to experts and completely free. Held across from the Shoe Department, Southside Mall, Oneonta. Visit destinationoneonta.com/calendar OPERA 12:55-4:30 p.m. View a performance of the Metropolitan Opera, streaming live in Oneonta. This week the Met presents “Fedora” by Umberto Giordano, about a 19th-century Russian princess who falls in love with her fiancé’s murderer. Cost, $20/adult. Lunch available for purchase separately from

Soda Jerks. Arrive by 12:15 for a pre-opera presentation on the show. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

LIFESKILLS 4-6 p.m. Teens are invited to learn to cook with Lynn. Menu posted to FB. Seating limited, reservations required. Presented by The Oneonta Teen Center, 50 Dietz Street, Suite L, Oneonta. (607) 441-3999.

►sunday, Jan. 15

WATERFOWL CENSUS All day. Help the DelawareOtsego Audubon Society count the numbers and types of waterfowl along Otsego County’s waterways. These numbers will then be used by NYS to manage these species in the coming year. Contact Andy Mason at (607) 6522162.

CELEBRATION 3 p.m. The community is invited to the “Let Us Fulfill The Dream” celebration of Martin Luther King’s birthday. The day will feature local leaders, musicians, college students, and scholars who will give statements, readings, and musical performances that honor Dr. King’s legacy. Free, open to the public. Held at the First United Presbyterian Church, 2 Walling Avenue, Oneonta. Visit oneontanaacp.com

WINTER CONCERT 3 p.m. The Little Delaware Youth Ensemble presents their winter concert featuring a program ranging from Mendelssohn

to the “Super Mario” theme. Free. Held at Anderson Theater, Hartwick College, Oneonta. (917) 902-9301 or visit ldye.org

►Monday, Jan. 16

Martin Luther King Day KIDS’ PROGRAM 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Otsego County Conservation Association Education Specialist Shelby MacLeish with Liz Brown will lead kids on a fun outdoor adventure to get them out of the house during this winter break. Activity to be determined. Expected to take place in Oneonta. (607) 547-4488.

SENIOR PAINTING 12:302:30 p.m. Create a winter landscape on canvas. Registration required. Cost, $15 for supplies. Hosted by the Otsego County Council of

Senior Citizens at the Clark

Sports Center, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com

BLOOD DRIVE 1-6 p.m. Save up to three lives with the American Red Cross. Quality Inn, 5206 State Highway 23, Oneonta. Register at redcrossblood.org

►Tuesday, Jan. 17

COMMUNITY HIKE 9:45 a.m. The community is invited for a group hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Please bring appropriate clothing, gear, and enough water to stay hydrated, and be aware of your level of fitness. Contact hike leader for more information. This week’s hike will be at Wilber Park, Oneonta, with hike leader Sarah Patterson. (607) 4326284.

EXHIBIT TOUR 2 p.m. Hop online to explore the “Cooper, Cole and Hudson River School” exhibit with assistant curator Ann Canon. Followed by a Q&A session with Canon. Free, donation of $10 appreciated. Held on Zoom only by Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.

SMALL ART 5-7 p.m. Teens and adults are invited for open painting with the opportunity to bring the finished product home, enter into an art show, or donate the finished work to be auction to benefit the library. Canvas & paint provided, free. Also held 1/24. Village Library of Cooperstown. (607) 5478344.

►Wednesday, Jan. 18

SOUPER SENIORS 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a bowl of fresh, homemade soup, good company and maybe a game of pitch or mahjong. See your friends and make some new ones. Free. Held each Wednesday. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs.

PHOTO BOOKS 1 p.m. Get your cameras ready and join the workshop to learn about the current trend of digital photo books. Learn about the vendors, how to upload photos, select a layout and choose between custom or let the company do the work. Snow date: 1/25. Village Library of Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.