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ONEONTA
& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch winter carnival capers, pages 8-9
VISIT www.
AllOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S DAILY NEWSPAPER/ONLINE COMPLIMENTARY
Oneonta, N.Y., Thursday, February 1, 2024
Volume 16, No. 15
Nurses, Hospital Come to Terms
Panel Speaks on Wind Farm Proposal Flaws
NYSNA Benefit Fund Preserved, Wage Increase Unprecedented
A
INSIDE
By DAN SULLIVAN
L
Photo by Tara Barnwell
Tough All Over... OTSEGO COUNTY—The Oneonta Wendy’s makes an editorial comment on the current business climate (above), while Family Dollar in the Hartwick Commons prepares to close after 35 years.
Photo by Darla M. Youngs
ONEONTA .O. Fox Hospital leadership has reached an agreement with the New York State Nurses Association related to a collective bargaining agreement for registered nurses at the hospital. Negotiations have successfully concluded after just a few months, according to hospital officials. “We would like to thank the representatives at NYSNA for their good faith collaboration,” said Joan MacDonald, DNP, MSN, RN, chief nursing officer and vice president of Patient Services at A.O. Fox Hospital in a statement. “We were able to reach an agreement after less than four months of negotiating—more quickly than is typical for this process—that will best meet the needs of our nurses while we continue to prioritize providing the highest quality care possible to our patients and communities. I am very proud of the expertise, support and dedication our leadership team demonstrated.” The new three-year contract, in effect from October 21, 2023 through September 30, 2027, includes significant gains, NYSNA announced in a press release issued Thursday, January 25, including “unprecedented wage increases, improved staffing language and the preservation of the NYSNA healthcare benefit fund at no additional cost to nurses. Nurses fought back against several concessionary proposals from hospital administration, including a proposal to double their health insurance costs, and won.” According to NYSNA, nurses will see a Continued on page 11
SPRINGFIELD ast Tuesday, January 24, a public information meeting was held at the Springfield Community Center to inform area residents about issues surrounding the proposed wind energy project in the towns of Warren, Springfield and Stark—Stark Wind, as it is called locally. A panel of three presenters comprised of Keith Schue of Cherry Valley, Jonathan Knauth of Litchfield and Steve Helmin of Glen was moderated by Nicole Dillingham, retired attorney and environmental activist. In her opening remarks, Dillingham pointed out what she believes to be a major issue with the environmental review of the project. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement omitted the Town of Springfield’s local law, she said, which specifically bans such projects. “This flawed review should be thrown out,” Dillingham urged. All three of the presentations which followed focused on other troubling aspects of the project, and on New York State’s renewable energy goals and policy. The roughly 70 attendees heard first from Schue, who has spoken several times across the state on the weaknesses of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, or CLCPA. According to Schue, the CLCPA goals are unrealistic, especially in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The reason for this is that wind and solar—the lynchpins of the state’s plan Continued on page 12
Schuermann Rookie of the Week
► Gilbertsville clock ticks on, page 2
BOSTON ooperstown native and first-year guard for Emmanuel College Women’s Basketball Meagan Schuermann posted back-to-back 20-point games earlier this month on her way to securing Great Northeast Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week honors. Schuermann averaged 20.5 points and 3.5 rebounds while shooting 47.1 percent (14-of-34) from the floor, including 50 percent (4-of-8) from beyond the arc during the two Saints wins. Schuermann netted a career-high 21 points on 9for-14 shooting on January 10 in a 77-67 win at Lasell University. She followed that with a 20-point outing in a January 13 win versus Norwich. Currently third on the Saints in scoring average this season, Schuermann posted 9.9 points per game in 14 outings for Emmanuel. The rookie has come off the bench in all 14 games this season, averaging just over 19 minutes per contest. Schuermann graduated with High Academic Honors from Wilbraham & Monson Academy in May 2023, where she served as captain of the women’s basketball team, scoring her 1,000th point as a senior. She led her team in the AllNew England Private School Athletic Conference Championship game, and was named 1st Team All-NEPSAC. Schuermann is pursuing an interest in business and African American studies at Emmanuel College. She is the daughter of Matt and Maureen Schuermann of Cooperstown.
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► Three headed to hall of fame, page 3 ► lwv gets us ready for election 2024, page 4 ► citizen science focus is on energy, page 6 ► berkson recounts runty’s tale, page 6 ► polar bear jump coming up, page 9 ► bank saga in morris continues, page 7 ► sports briefs, page 10 Follow Breaking News On
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THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA, OTSEGO COUNTY’S LARGEST PRINT CIRCULATION 2010 WINNERS OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER EDDM PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ONEONTA PERMIT NO. 890
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Gilbert Block Clock Keeps Ticking with a Little Help from Friends By TERESA WINCHESTER GILBERTSVILLE nyone visiting the Village of Gilbertsville for the first time is immediately struck by its charm. Facing west on the corner of State Highway 51 and Commercial Street is the stately and spacious Tudor-style Major’s Inn. Completed in 1901, the inn is a venue for many community and social events, including weddings, high-school proms, and an annual three-day quilt show. The inn’s architectural style
A Photo by Liam Herbert
The Gilbert Block tower clock, manufactured by E. Howard & Co. (Boston) and installed in 1894, is wound weekly by Gilbertsville resident Nate Lull. T. Sean Herbert, also of Gilbertsville, has offered to fund repair and refurbishment of the clock.
was built to complement Commercial Street’s Gilbert Block, a trigabled row of commercial buildings, also Tudor-style, designed by Boston architect Henry Forbes Bigelow and completed in 1895. The Gilbert Block is owned and maintained by the non-profit Village Improvement Society, founded in 1891. The center gable of this architectural triptych features a non-striking tower clock manufactured by E. Howard & Co., also of Boston, and installed in 1894, according to Gilbertsville
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TICKETS $20 Adult, $10 Student (w/College ID), $10 Youth (ages 6-18). Children ages 5 and under are free. Tickets are available online and may be available at the door.
www.cooperstownconcertseries.org
A Community Workspace A Place to Meet and Visit With Friends Wireless Internet Access
Come Enjoy Breakfast & Lunch!
More than a cafe, our location provides a place for people to enjoy our fresh-made food, a cup of Joe, and visit with friends close to home. Connect to the Internet and enjoy a space to relax in—either in the cafe or in the upstairs community workspace.
3097 County Highway 11, Hartwick • 607-293-3040 Open Friday-Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located beLow My Neighbor’s cLoset
Free Library archivist Leigh Eckmair. Being a mechanical clock, it must be hand-wound. For roughly 35 years, Jim Lull, who lived in Gilbertsville from 1979 to 2014, assumed the responsibility of clock winding, having agreed to substitute for the previous clock winder, Overton Mott, who needed time away to take care of his ailing mother. Mott never returned to duty. Although Jim still acts as substitute clock winder, in 2014 he passed the clock-winding baton to his son, Nate, sports director at WCDO radio station in Sidney. “It only takes 30 seconds to one minute to wind the clock and it will run for seven or eight days before I have to do it again,” Nate said. Nate’s clock-winding efforts have lately been bolstered by Gilbertsville resident T. Sean Herbert, an Emmy awardwinning broadcast news journalist who moved to Gilbertsville in 2021. Herbert expressed appreciation for Nate’s efforts. “As you can imagine, when you are responsible for keeping something alive, whether it’s a mechanical timepiece, a pet or another human being, it’s a calling. And Nate has a remarkable sense of responsibility to keep this village clock ticking. Even after the birth of his first child (with his wife, Amanda), he continues to wind the clock and watch to see
how well the clock is keeping time,” Herbert said. Herbert noticed that the clock was sometimes losing time and would stop running. “The clock’s mechanism is about the size of a typical kitchen oven, but likely weighs much more than an oven given the era it was manufactured. Like most mechanical things, this clock is complicated and quirky. It appears to be susceptible to changing weather conditions,” Herbert said. He informed the VIS that, coordinating with Nate, he would like to pay for an expert to examine the clock and get it to keep more accurate time. Herbert had been trying for two years, to no avail, to entice a watchmaker he knew in the area to look at the clock. In a harmonic twist of fate, the VIS board engaged a realtor in September 2023 to help find an occupant for the Gilbert Block space formerly occupied by the Gilbertsville Value Way. The realtor and Herbert’s watchmaker turned out to be one and the same, Patrick O’Neil of Norwich. “I immediately called him and said, ‘you have no more excuses, you better come and check out our clock ASAP!’” Herbert said. Just before clocks were set back for Eastern Continued on page 6
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
NEWS BRIEFS
Catholic Charities Honors Siena Franciscans LOUDONVILLE—Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany will honor the Franciscans of Siena College at their 12th annual fundraising event on Thursday, June 20. This year’s Gala for Good, formerly known as Night at the Museum, will be an evening fundraiser highlighting the mission and achievements of Catholic Charities and will be held at Siena. Proceeds from the event will support Catholic Charities’ vital programs and services across their 14-county region, including affordable housing, food insecurity programs, family and child support, services for survivors of domestic violence, and other human services targeted at eliminating poverty. “The Franciscan Community at Siena College is an inspiration to thousands of students and alumni of Siena College and imbues in the Capital Region and beyond their commitment to justice and peace, Catholic Social Teaching, and the value of community,” said Sister Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ, CEO of Catholic Charities. “We are thrilled to be honoring the Franciscan Friars this year with the Catholic Charities Award.” Further details on the 2024 Gala for Good will be made available.
Milo Stewart Jr./National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Adrián Beltré, Todd Helton and Joe Mauer will be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, July 21.
Fenimore Quilt Club Show Is This Weekend
Trio Elected to Hall of Fame the most by any catcher in history; no other catcher has won even one AL title. Mauer was the first overall pick in the 2001 draft, making him the fourth number one to enter the Hall of Fame. He also represents a generational change, becoming the first Hall of Famer who played his entire MLB career in the 21st century. Helton played his entire 17-year career for the Colorado Rockies, joining Larry Walker as the second Colorado player in the hall. He earned 79.7 percent of the vote in his sixth appearance on the ballot. Helton made five AllStar appearances and collected three Gold Gloves, four Silver Sluggers, and the 2000 National League Hank Aaron Award. He led the majors in batting average (.372) and RBI (147) that
By WRILEY NELSON
COOPERSTOWN—The Fenimore Quilt Club will hold its 33rd annual show at the Cooperstown Art Association galleries, 22 Main Street, from Saturday, February 3 through Sunday, February 18. This highly anticipated yearly exhibit will show off more than 75 quilts and quilted items in traditional and contemporary designs, including bed quilts, lap quilts, and wall hangings. Many of the display pieces will be available for sale. The show will feature a memorial exhibit in honor of longtime Quilt Club member and co-chair JoAnn Launt, including a collection of her work. Club members will be present at the gallery each day to demonstrate quilting techniques and offer guidance. “Flowers Among the Stars,” a collector’s piece made collaboratively by the entire club, will be raffled on the final day of the show. The show will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and from 1-4 p.m. on Sundays.
year, and is one of only seven players in history who recorded 400 or more total bases in two or more seasons. Helton finished his career with more walks than strikeouts. In his ninth, penultimate year on the ballot, relief pitcher Billy Wagner came just five votes short. The only other players to reach 50 percent were outfielders Gary Sheffield (63.9 percent), Andruw Jones (61.6 percent) and Carlos Beltrán (57.1 percent). It was Sheffield’s final chance on the BBWAA ballot, but he will be considered by the Historical Overview Committee in the future. Induction Weekend 2024 will take place Friday, July 19 through Monday, July 22. In addition to the induction ceremony, there will be Continued on page 11
COOPERSTOWN he National Baseball Hall of Fame’s induction class of 2024 was announced at a ceremony in the plaque gallery on Tuesday, January 23. Voting members of the Baseball Writers’ Hybrid Operating Room Expands Rapid Care Association of America selected Adrián Beltré, COOPERSTOWN—Bassett Medical Center announced that it has opened Joe Mauer and Todd a new hybrid operating room, a state-of-the-art cardiac surgery facility that Helton to join the most will greatly expand options for emergency heart interventions. The hybrid honored pantheon in OR combines a traditional operating room with a complete cardiac cathAmerican sports. The eterization lab, where specialized cardiac tests and procedures can take trio represents an end place. Bassett’s new 1,000-square-foot facility will allow staff to diagnose to a multi-year dry spell patients and perform complex procedures in one place at one time, elimfor the Hall of Fame; the inating delays and providing better chances for full recovery. It will also BBWAA selected only dramatically decrease the need to transfer patients to other hospitals. two new members in their “The new hybrid operating room at Bassett Medical Center allows the last three elections. They vascular surgery team to expand surgical options not previously available will join Contemporary here,” said Dr. Shelby Cooper, FACS, division chief of Vascular Surgery Baseball Era Committee at Bassett. “Complex aortic (heart) surgery can now be done more easily, electee Jim Leyland safely and expeditiously. In addition, combined angiography procedures onstage for the induction (medical imaging that looks at veins, arteries, and the heart’s chambers) ceremony at the Clark Continued on page 11 Sports Center on Sunday, July 21. Beltré and Mauer joined an even more prestigious group, becoming Town oF oTsego solar energy the 59th and 60th MLB InFormaTIonal meeTIng players to enter the Hall OCTOBER 1 – DECEMBER 31, 2020 of Fame in their first year Wednesday, February 7 at 7 p.m. of eligibility. Players are • FeaTurIng guesT speakers • eligible for the BBWAA Steve Helmin, former Town Council Member of Glen, NY election for 10 years, & Keith Schue, Technical Advisor and Electrical Engineer beginning five years after their permanent retireDiscuss the future of solar energy in the Town of Otsego and are selected if ment, Building, 811 Co. Hwy. 26, Fly Creek they receive votes on at 1 Town OCTOBER – send DECEMBER 31, 2020 questions to ddalton@stny.rr.com least 75 percent of the submitted ballots. Beltré received the strongest support, earning 95.1 percent of the vote. He spent 21 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, and Texas Rangers, and is widely regarded as one of the ? Kelly Edge All-Season WeatherReady greatest ? WinterCommand ? Kelly Edge HT thirdUltrabasemen in ? Assurance All-Season CT Touring ? Kelly Edge All-Season Perf. ? Kelly Edge MT ? Wrangler DuraTrac ? Eagle Sport All-Season Family (inc. ROF & SCT) the history of the game. ? Winter Maxx 2 ? Wrangler AT Adventure w/Kevlar ? Kelly Winter Access MaxLife ? Kelly Edge AT His 2,759 games that ? Winter Maxx SJ8 rate C-Type ? Kelly Edge HP ? Kelly Safari TSR ? Wrangler Fortitude HT , excludesat mand ? Wrangler TrailRunner AT position are second only to recently deceased Hall of *By online or mail-in rebate. Rebates paid by Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard® or Visa® Prepaid Card. Famer Brooks Robinson’s 2,870. 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Get a $25 Prepaid Card with purchase or $50 Prepaid Card with Kelly 2004. Edge AT , Kelly Edge MT , Kelly Safari TSR, Kelly Edge HP , Kelly Edge All-Season , Kelly Edge All-Season Performance and Kelly Winter Access . t Card of: Kelly Edge HT,in 155 ERIE BLVD c 'MDLA &AF= (=O .AJ= =9D=J c &G? -CA<<=J .AJ=K d Mastercard , then the following applies: Rebates paid in the form of a Goodyear Prepaid Mastercard . This Prepaid Card is issued by Sunrise Banks N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles c .AJ= ,=H9AJ c ?JA;MDLMJ9D who played 15 Registration, activation, card International Incorporated.Mauer, This card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted. acceptance, or use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Prepaid.AJ=K Card Agreement. Prepaid Cards will not have cash access and will CANAJOHARIE , NY 13317 of issuance - other terms, conditions, and fees may apply. c &9OF 9F< !9J<=F .AJ=K c .AJ= @9AFK seasons forCardthe epaid Card, then the following applies: Visa Prepaid is issuedMinnesota by MetaBank , N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit c .0 /.0 .AJ=K518-673-5399 c ,M::=J .J9;CK erms and conditions apply. MetaBank does not endorse or sponsor the Goodyear Credit Card offer. Twins, earned election ating U.S. Goodyear retailers and websites. Offers valid only for U.S. residents who are individual consumers with mailing addresses in the U.S. and.J9AD=J U.S. territories. Commercial fleets are not eligiblecfor ? these 9?K rebates. Not 9D= valid on previous c -=EA .J9;LGJ purchases. 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Prepaid Cards will not have cash access and will joined Johnny Bench f issuance - other terms, conditions, and fees may apply. and Iván toFDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit paid Card, then the following applies: Visa Prepaid Card Rodríguez is issued by MetaBank , N.A., Member ms and conditions apply. MetaBank does not endorse or sponsor the Goodyear Credit Card offer. become catcher ting U.S. Goodyear retailers and websites. Offersthe valid only third for U.S. residents who are individual consumers with mailing addresses in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Commercial fleets are not eligible for these rebates. Not valid on previous purchases. Cannot be combined with other Goodyear ON THE retailer for complete details and rebate forms. 4(%4)2%3(/0 "): must be postmarked no later than 1/31/21. 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HOMETOWN Views
A-4 HOMETOWN ONEONTA
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A VOTERS GUIDE TO Elections
EDITORIAL
I
Dancing in the Doldrums
t’s here. Again. This weekend. The Cooperstown Winter Carnival, a classic event that began a long time ago. The powers that be say this one is the 56th, but our meager math puts it, right now in 2024, at 57, in anticipation of a 60th anniversary spree in 2027. One might not have happened, for any number of reasons, but there’s a full, volunteer committee for every year since 1967, and in 1991 the carnival celebrated its Silver Anniversary. Be that as it may, carnivals— winter festivals, winter carnivals, snow festivals, frost fairs—have been around for a long time. They are especially popular in the wintry countries of the north, where the long, cold, snowy and, in the past, very often severe weather conditions exacerbate the winter doldrums, forcing the residents indoors and offering them no rewarding and stimulating social activity. Most of these winter carnivals have involved traditional winter pursuits such as dog sledding, ice hockey, ice carving, skating, skiing, and snow sculptures; today they are highlighted by feasts, fireworks, and light shows as well. The earliest recorded such winter fete was in England in the year 695, when the Thames River froze for six weeks and vendors set up their booths on the ice. In 1608, the term Frost Fair appeared, with barbers, pubs, fruit sellers, and shoemakers selling their wares, and football, dancing, and nine-pin bowling providing some entertainment, all on the frozen river. During the Great Frost of 1683-84, the Thames was completely frozen for two months, and the ensuing Frost Fair, the most celebrated, was claimed “a Bacchanalian triumph.” Horse- and coachracing, ice skating, puppet shows, bullbaiting, football, bowling, sledding, and foxhunting all happened on the ice. Then, in 1814, an elephant crossed the river during what was to be the last Frost Fair. The climate was growing milder, the Thames stopped its London freeze, and what had been known as the Little Ice Age ended its 200-year run. There are, of course, other carnivals too, held across this country as well as in Canada, China, France, Estonia, Japan, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Estonia. Some are small and local, lasting a weekend or two and appealing to their own community; others are well-known—Mardi Gras, Sundance, and the Venice Carnevale draw spectators and participants from afar; still others are older—Saranac Lake (New York) began 120 years ago. They are pretty much all run by volunteers, focused on the health benefits of the great outdoors, brimming with local camaraderie and organized to put an end to the deep winter doldrums. The Cooperstown Winter Carnival is no exception. Founded by the Cooperstown Ski Club and the Chamber of Commerce, it once featured sled-dog races (over an 11-mile course on the then-frozen lake, from Pioneer Park to Five Mile Point and back), ski races on the then-snowfilled Mt. Otsego, snowmobile races, car races, and fishing tournaments, also on the then-frozen lake, and all manner of outside activities for young and old, as well as the Susquehanna Ball, held at the then-Fenimore House until 1974. Today the carnival still manages to encourage outside activities, but there are more indoor events—book sales, competitions at the Clark Sports Center, and a plethora of eating, drinking, and shopping opportunities. Perhaps it’s all due to some climate change and the scarcity of snow and ice. Even so, the carnival is here to cheer us up and remind us that spring is soon coming to rescue us from our long, cold winter.
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.
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Voting: The Time To Prepare Is Now
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n Tuesday, November 5, 2024, New Yorkers will be voting for president, vice president, senator, members of congress, and state legislators. November 5 may be 10 months away, but the 2024 election season begins now. “How can that be?” you might wonder. The answer is related to how New York runs its primary elections. Primary elections are used by political parties to choose candidates to run for offices in a general election. The first primary election in New York in 2024 is the Presidential Preference Primary on April 2; the New York State primary election follows on June 25. The candidates who win the Presidential Preference Primary continue on to their party’s conventions; the winners of the New York primary will appear on the ballot in November. New York State has a closed primary, which means only registered voters who are enrolled in a party may participate in that party’s primary election. So, in New York State, if you wish to vote in the presidential primary on April 2 or the New York State primary on June 26, you must be enrolled in a party that has candidates running in the primary. Registered Republicans may only vote for Republican candidates and registered Democrats may only vote for candidates from the Democratic Party who are in the primaries. In addition, the only way for current “unaffiliated” voters to vote in the primaries is by changing enrollment from unaffiliated to one of the parties. The deadline for changing your enrollment—either from one party to the other or from unaffiliated to one of the parties— is February 14. This February 14 deadline applies only to currently registered voters. If you are not currently registered to vote in New York, the last day to register and be eligible to vote in the upcoming primaries is March 23, 2024. In an ideal world, the primary process would not be this complicated. But here are some hints to help you find out if you are eligible
Dates To Remember The Otsego County Board of Elections maintains an excellent page that includes more details about the deadlines for all the upcoming elections. Add it to your browser bookmarks: https://www. otsegocounty.com/departments/ board_of_elections/index.php Important Deadlines for Upcoming Elections
Presidential Primary Election February 14: Last day for the Board of Elections to receive change of party enrollment March 18: Last day to postmark voter registration by mail March 23: Last day for BOE to receive early mail ballot or absentee ballot application online or by mail March 23: Last day to register in-person March 23-30: Early Voting April 1: Last day to apply inperson for an early mail ballot or absentee ballot April 2: Election Day. Polls open 6am-9pm 2024 New York State Primary Election
February 14: Last day for BOE to receive change of party enrollment June 15: Last day for BOE to receive early mail ballot or absentee ballot application online or by mail Jun 15: Last day to register in-person June 15-23: Early Voting Jun 24: Last day to apply inperson for an early mail ballot or absentee ballot June 25: Election Day. Polls open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. to vote in the two upcoming primaries. First, check your voting status at https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ Otsego County. Once you know your status, the next steps are easy, whether you want to update your registration or simply register to vote. The next step is to get a voter registration form. There are several ways to do this: • Pick one up from the County Board Continued on page 12
Letters to the editor … In their opinion
Generosity Much Appreciated Editor’s Note: The following letter on behalf of The Salvation Army is in thanks for donations made this holiday season to the Angel Tree Program by readers of “The Freeman’s Journal” and “Hometown Oneonta.” This is the 102nd year our readers have participated in this community tradition that began with The Freeman’s Journal Christmas Fund in 1921. I cannot begin to tell you how much we here at The Salvation Army appreciate all that [Iron String Press] did for us during this Christmas season. Your donation for families in need this Christmas was a wonderful gift to us as well as to the families that you helped. With your help, we were able to meet our goal of helping families and go above. For that we are eternally grateful. This year, we were able to help over 255 families and give gifts to approximately 475 children. It is this kind of generosity that makes it possible for us to show God’s love and “Do The Most Good” all year long.
People will be fed, helped with housing expenses, clothing, energy costs, and more, and it is all due to the kindness of people like you. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers all year and not just during the Christmas season. May God bless you. Margie Aitken Envoy, Officer in Charge The Salvation Army
Public Invited To Weigh In on WRP Ever since I-88 was built and opened in the early 1970s, our community has been essentially cut off from one of our greatest natural resources, the Susquehanna River. The city and town of Oneonta are developing a joint Local Waterfront Revitalization Program to establish community goals and strategies for future waterfront and downtown development. Its stated purpose is to “foster economic development, improve public access to the Susquehanna River and its tributaries, and encourage the protection of valuable natural resources.” Oneonta is conducting a
survey to determine residents’ thoughts and opinions. This survey has many questions about economic development and housing in the proposed waterfront area. While these are important goals for the community at large, we feel the main emphasis of the Waterfront Revitalization Project should be on increasing public access and encouraging public interaction with the natural setting of our rivers and creeks. Any housing and economic development should not impinge on citizens’ ability to enjoy our natural resources. To learn more about this project and make your preferences and opinions count, please take the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/W2TJM8Z. Sandy Bright Secretary, Oneonta Susquehanna Greenway Committee
Let’s Get Honest About Crime Trump and the Republican Party constantly rail about rising crime rates. But that’s not real life in America today. They’re making it up. Continued on page 13
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-5 news from the noteworthy
LEAF
First Aid Kits Get a New, Life-saving Addition Compiled by Tom Heitz/SHARON STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library
70 Years Ago
Leo P. Norton, 39, Colliers, faces an indefinite stay in jail following his conviction yesterday in City Court on a charge that he gave a teenager a drink. An all-day trial ended shortly before supper when a jury of four men and two women brought in a verdict of guilty after nearly one and one-half hours of deliberation. Judge John L. Van Woert deferred sentencing to await action of the State Parole Board. The conviction automatically becomes a violation of Norton’s parole. With convictions for offenses dating back to 1930, Norton has been on parole for 17 years. With his wife and seven children looking on in court, Norton took the stand in his own behalf to deny that he gave a thirteen-year-old youth some wine. It was the youth’s own bottle, he testified. Norton was arrested on the teenage drink charge January 13 and has been in jail since. January 1954
50 Years Ago
A proposal calling for the use of Homer Folks hospital as a “regional center to serve human needs,” was made public yesterday by Dr. Indulis Ritenis, Director of Otsego County’s Community Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services unit located at Fox Hospital. Dr. Ritenis said part of Homer Folks should be used as a training facility by several area agencies to provide training for college students in the areas of mental health, mental retardation, alcoholism, and other related medical fields. In addition, he proposes “rehabilitation and job training facilities for the physically and mentally handicapped as well as people with minor legal problems.” January 1974
40 Years Ago
Fox Memorial Hospital’s 1984 profile census shows that through October 1983 there were 33,806 adult medical surgical days. The medical/surgical occupancy rate averaged 84 percent; maternity occupancy averaged 83 percent. There has been a dramatic increase in the number of births at Fox Hospital in the last several years. In 1979, there were 227 births; in 1982 there were 452. For 1983, through the end of November, 535 babies had been born at Fox, and 580 births were expected by year’s end. In 1983 Fox Hospital employed more than 600 people, making it the second largest employer in Oneonta. January 1984
30 Years Ago
The 1994 Human Services Fair will start today at Oneonta’s Southside Mall. Sponsored by the Otsego Council on Human Services, the fair is designed to help the community understand the range of programs available through the area’s human services agencies and to show people how to begin using these services. The theme of this year’s fair is “Your Health, Your Community, and You.” Participating service providers will offer interactive displays for all age groups. Among the agencies and organizations participating are the LEAF Council on Alcoholism and Addictions, the American Cancer Society, Catskill Area Hospice, and many more. January 1994
20 Years Ago
Safety rules for operating snow blowers: Do not stick hands into the snow blower chute or near moving parts. Do not disable manufacturer safety mechanisms. Make sure the snow blower has stopped completely before trying to work on it. Although the motor may be stopped, snow puts pressure on jammed blades and blades can move after clogged snow is removed. Use manufacturer supplied objects to unclog the snow blower. Do not put sticks or similar objects into the machine. Never allow children to operate a snow blower. Keep people and pets away from the clearing area. Wear eye protection and gloves. Never operate after drinking alcohol. January 2004 Solution: “‘2001’ Revisited” (January 25)
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he addiction and overdose crisis continues to claim more than 100,000 lives a year in our country. Since 1999, which historically marks the beginning of the opioid crisis, more than one million people have died (CDC). Let that number sink in. One Million Dead. It is currently the leading cause of death for adults aged 18 to 45 and fentanyl is involved in 73 percent of those deaths. I cannot stress this point strongly enough: We can no longer assume that there is any “safe” drug supply on the streets, social media, or the Internet (licensed online pharmacies and regulated dispensaries excepted). Fentanyl has been found in cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, counterfeit pills and gummies. With that, it makes sense that the overdose antidote, naloxone (Narcan), should be in firstaid kits anywhere that there are people. Think about it. So many of us are trained in basic first aid, CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. Most of us know what to do when someone is having a diabetic drop in sugar. We almost instinctively know what to do if someone experiences a seizure. We know those things because we’ve been taught those things. If we’re losing 100,000 people per year to overdose, doesn’t it make sense that we know how to respond if an overdose happens in our presence? If that is true, it also makes sense that naloxone (Narcan) be available wherever people may be. Because fentanyl is so prevalent, exposures can happen in a variety of circumstances. People who use drugs regularly are at higher
Photo provided
If we’re losing 100,000 people per year to overdose, doesn’t it make sense that we know how to respond if an overdose happens in our presence? This new initiative places naloxone first-aid kits in locations where they have the potential to save lives in an emergency.
risk, but even those who use now and then can be exposed. Those who have purchased Xanax, Ativan, Adderall or other seemingly legitimate medications could fall victim to unlicensed pharmacies. I know that my focus is almost always prevention. I have not lost sight of that. LEAF is always going to “major” in prevention. When so many people are dying from a substance, it is appropriate to make enough of a pivot to help people stay alive. The work of getting naloxone (Narcan) into businesses and organizations goes hand-in-hand with the work we’re already doing in the community. Some of the most fulfilling work we do is going into businesses and providing workplace wellbeing training. While we’re working with Continued on page 12
By MERL REAGLE
Surprise Endings…
Everything was going along just fine until— ACROSS 1 Jazz style 4 “Made ya look!” 8 Osculate 12 Post-bath powder 16 Santa ___ CA 17 Partner of alas 19 Like some gases 21 Hawaiian howdy 23 Film about a Jersey girl? 26 Pop hit of 1953, “C’est ___” 27 Familiar with 28 Bruce who played Dr. Watson 29 Addams Family cousin 31 Digital display: abbr. 32 Indian princess 33 Film that has the famous line, “Will you stop doing that and move”? 37 Hankerings 39 Hosp. areas 40 Got up 41 Model publication 42 The Bruins 44 “... and pulled out 106 F ilm about a dysfunctional 15 2 000 film that appealed to world on fire” ___” Thanksgiving family? regular moviegoers? 73 Up, longways 47 Faulkner’s ___ Dying 112 Silkwood co-star 18 Varieties 77 Supplement mineral 49 Film about a career in 114 Had a repast 20 Nincompoops 78 Mexican entree janitoring? 115 The Trojans 22 Under lock ___ 83 Some grad students 55 Agate variety 116 Greek porticos 24 Yeats’s home, poetically 85 Dock arrival 56 T.S. et al. 117 Diner sign 25 Like Abner 86 F ilm about living next to a 57 VIP in the Reagan White 119 More urgent 30 TV oldie, ___ Team dump? House 121 Reason for that hint of 34 Kin of “nuts!” 87 Romans’ name for Spain 58 Actress Hagen sweetness in your sand- 35 Baseball’s Hideo ___ 88 Against 60 Ice cream amounts wich? 36 Rider’s strap 90 Pundit Matalin 61 Whodunit dog 124 Glancing blow, in cricket 38 Dressy duds 91 Jurassic dino 64 Film about America’s obsession with cosmetic surgery? 125 Sans ___ (carefree) 43 Borgia et al. 92 It’s red-hot 126 Cosmetics name 71 Shore bird 44 ___ glance 93 The ___ hour 127 Grounded bird 72 Glossy proof 45 Noted groundhog 94 Three-note chords 74 Filmstock holes, for short 128 Get Smart enemy org. 46 Little help 95 Vanity cases? 129 Cereal ingredient 75 1970s hairstyle 48 Rise in the skies 100 Pizarro’s victims 130 Facetious “Gotcha” 76 Film about a guy who’s 101 J im Carrey film, Me, 49 Doc always philosophical about 131 Fool Myself & ___ 50 Grafton’s A things? DOWN 51 L ittle Richard song, “___ 103 Major pain 79 Air force? 1 Literary elephant Up” 104 Hemingway setting 80 Corp. capts. 2 Like some streets 52 Vermouth brand, Martini 105 Immunity fluids 81 Real ending 3 Stately dance & ___ 107 Ankara residents 82 “Do I dare to ___ peach?” 4 Krishna preceder 53 Butler leaves her 108 New York city 84 “All the world’s ___” 5 “___ a sudden ...” 54 Draws on a pipe 109 Drying agent 86 Larger/life insert 6 Rick’s place? 59 Mexican entree 110 Moo goo ___ pan 89 Film about some German 7 Essen exclamation 62 Actress Berger 111 E astwood’s role on guy? 8 Slangy nonsense 63 Toll rd. Rawhide 94 From that place 65 G eorge of Just Shoot Me 9 Indy’s Bobby 113 Picture puzzle 96 Gucci and Ray 10 Word on a dollar bill 66 Play about Capote 118 Kojak’s first name 97 Jai ___ 11 Sellout sign 67 Milk starter 120 Logical intro? 98 Breather 68 “Whom shall ___?” (Psalms 122 Act like a Hood 12 Epicurean trait 99 Maternity ward news 27:1) 13 “The Mouth That Roared” 123 “My mind ___ sieve” 101 “___ been there” 69 Croakers 14 Type of pine 102 Butter portions 70 “I don’t want ___ the
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA CITIZEN SCIENCE
jamie zvirzdin
Energy Demystified:
A Year of Studying Energy
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his year’s “Citizen Science” column will target one of the most interesting, beautiful, and useful quantities in science: energy. Last year, we covered intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, scientific literacy, the interplay of belief and science, and the virtues of patience and honesty in science. These skills and qualities have prepared us for our next quest, to reclaim the concept of energy from its pseudoscientific detractors. Many groups claim to use or manipulate energy for our benefit, promoting practices such as Reiki, crystal healing, aura reading, chakra balancing, therapeutic touch, magnet therapy, homeopathy, astrology and energy healing. While these practices are popular and often have historical and cultural significance, they are not supported by empirical evidence. They rely on personal belief (and the placebo effect) and anecdotal evidence (testimonials) rather than scientific validation. I don’t doubt they bring a measure of comfort to the afflicted, but their ability to actually use energy to help us is vastly overstated. I believe we fall prey to these pseudoscience practices because we do not understand enough about what energy is. It’s hard to find sources that are trustworthy and accessible. Some scientists and skeptics, wrapped in their own proud cloak of jargon, are not much help, likewise adopting a priestlike role, as many pseudoscience practitioners do, in guarding and wielding the esoteric secrets of the universe. Yet energy, in its true essence, is a foundational pillar of the physical world, influencing everything from the cosmic to the commonplace. Possessing this energy can hugely benefit our lives: electricity, transportation, communication, healthcare, food production, education and research, quality of life and comfort, economic development, renewable energy and sustainability, emergency services, and disaster response—real energy that really impacts our lives. Our series this year will demystify this concept, celebrating the scientific understanding of energy in its myriad forms. To introduce the various flavors of energy we’ll cover this year, imagine you take a break from work to enjoy your lunch hour at the nearby beach. As you sprint down the hill toward the beach, your muscles stretch and contract, feet pounding the ground. Your smartphone and its lithium-ion battery power your earbuds, filling your ears with music. Around you, the Earth’s magnetic field protects you from the worst of harmful cosmicray radiation as you arrive at the beach and flop down in the sand to rest. Your granola bar begins to restore your energy, and your heart rate returns to normal. As the sun warms your skin and waves crash on the shore, you contemplate the energy that holds your atoms together and the energy that accelerates the universe’s expansion. You are a living nexus of all these energies, from the quantum to the cosmic, something more beautiful and real and exciting than any imaginary energy wrought by crystals, magnetic bracelets, chakra alignments, quantum healing, or Mercury in retrograde. Lying in the sand, in the sun, in this moment of tranquility, you recognize this powerful ebb and flow of energy transformations, a testament to the often unseen and unappreciated— yet measurable—forces that animate the universe. So let’s improve our understanding of energy by first defining it, tracing its history through the Oxford English Dictionary. I like the etymology of the word energy, which came from the Ancient Greek word enérgeia and originally meant “activity, operation, efficacy.” Aristotle first used it, as far as we know, to talk about
potentiality and actuality—what is possible and what happens when that possibility is realized through motion, change or activity. Much later, during the 17th century, another polymath named Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz conceived the concept of vis viva, or “living force,” which we now call kinetic energy. This budding idea was renamed energy by Thomas Young, a third brilliant polymath who not only showed that light was a wave but also helped decipher Egyptian hieroglyphs on the Rosetta Stone. The OED states that energy is currently defined as: “The potential or capacity of a body or system to do work by virtue of its motion, position, chemical structure, etc.” It goes on to say that energy is measurable, and it can be “acquired, transferred, and expended.” In other words, energy is the ability to cause change or perform work. Energy has other properties, too. Because the laws of physics don’t willy-nilly change over time, energy is conserved, meaning it can’t be created or destroyed. You can transfer it to another form of energy, but you can’t pull it out of thin air or make it disappear. Picture the universe as a tight-fisted kid counting their Halloween candy like I used to do, hoarding every jot of sweet energy (every joule of energy, the standard measurement for energy). You could trade with me or do something nice for me, but at no point would I allow you unlimited access to my stash (yes, I was a stingy child). Or picture a dragon guarding a glittering mound of treasure. Every joule must be accounted for, and any pseudoscience practitioner who shows up to steal even one bit of energy will be eaten alive. If you want a piece of that energy treasure, you have to play by the rules of the universe. You must work within the system, using real science and proven methods, not wishful thinking or pseudoscientific shortcuts. This year, join me as we bridge the gap between understanding energy in the scientific sense and harnessing it in our daily lives. As we increase our knowledge of energy, we can also adopt practical, tried-and-true methods to boost our own energy levels: prioritizing sufficient sleep, nurturing our bodies with healthy meals, staying well-hydrated, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol and smoking, moderating our caffeine intake, and managing our stress. In exploring the fundamentals of energy, this upcoming year promises to be more than just educational; it will be transformative. By translating our knowledge into action, we enhance our daily happiness and vitality. After all, doing work on something transfers energy to it, and that includes ourselves. Jamie Zvirzdin researches cosmic rays with the Telescope Array Project, teaches science writing at Johns Hopkins University and is the author of “Subatomic Writing.”
Photo provided
Life sketches
terry berkson
Mum’s the Word, Right Runty?
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ecently, my neighbor across the road asked if I would feed and water his horses for a couple of days while he and his wife traveled out to Ohio to visit relatives. He, in turn, tends to my chickens when we go on a trip. I had taken on this chore before, so I knew how much grain and how many flakes of hay to give each horse. Ranger, a retired chestnut trotter with three white stockings, would get a full scoop of oats and two flakes of hay twice a day. The ponies would get a quarter scoop and only one flake twice a day. There was also a new Photo provided addition to the animals in Terry Berkson gives friend Runty a snuggle. the barn—a spirited oneyear-old black and brown Then the mutt started barking short-haired mutt named Runty. I was asked not to let him out again, but his tone was kind of muffled and he wasn’t scratching of the barn “because he likes to run and might not come back for hours.” at the door. The barks turned into yelps and I realized that the dog While I was taking care of the was crying. I went to the door and horses, Runty was racing through looked through the glass. the building like The Road Runner. There was Runty, with his chin A few minutes later he stopped resting on the metal threshold. He short and jumped up on my leg for tried to lift his head but I saw that a pat on the head. I obliged, but my his tongue was stuck frozen to the reward didn’t seem to calm him. aluminum plate. He shook his head I’ve had plenty of experience with dogs so, when I was finished dishing back and forth as though he were tugging on a piece of rope. The out the dry feed, I sat down on a scene had played through my mind bale of hay and lifted the squirming before, only it was a boy on a bet mutt onto my lap. He seemed to with his tongue attached to a cold savor the attention and in a short railroad track, a train approaching time I had him calm and walking and no warm water around to at my side as I picked up a couple unfreeze the tongue—except what of empty water buckets. I carefully his three friends had to offer. opened the barn door while heading Needless to say, he was saved. for a spigot on the side of the house Luckily I didn’t have to go that route as Runty went into high gear and breezed past me before I could close and had a bucket handy. I grabbed the door. First he headed for the road the dog’s collar before dousing him with water. When he was free, but then he changed his mind and began crashing through drifted snow I picked him up and carried him back to the barn. There were bright in a nearby paddock. I thought of my neighbor’s warning and called to red blood spots on his tongue. I felt guilty for not having successfully the dog, but he just ignored me. kept the dog in the barn. When I Meanwhile, I broke out the headed back to the house to get the remaining ice in the bottom of the water for the horses, the dog didn’t buckets and turned the handle on bark or attempt to squeeze through the spigot to refill them, but there the door. He was too busy licking was no water. The pipe was probably frozen. I’d have to go inside the his wounds—if that’s possible. house to use the kitchen sink. When From my experience with eating hot pizza, I know that tongue burns heal Runty saw that I was headed for the fast. Runty and I agreed to keep our front door he raced toward me, but mouths shut about the incident. I beat him to the entrance, narrowly Terry Berkson’s articles have closing the door before he could appeared in “New York” magaget his muzzle inside. He jumped zine, “Automobile” magazine and incredibly high, scratching at the many others. His memoir, “Corvette door’s glass window, his steaming Odyssey,” has received many good tongue hanging out between barks. Time passed and he seemed to grow reviews: “highly recommended with broad appeal,” says “Library tired and calmer as the water from Journal.” the kitchen faucet filled a bucket.
Clock
Continued from page 2 Standard Time, Herbert coordinated that visit, along with additional calls, meetings, and visits with both Lulls. McNeil assured Lull and Herbert that the clock was mechanically sound. He also gave Herbert instructions and cleaning materials to service the clock. Nonetheless, the two men will be looking for an Photo by Liam Herbert antique clock expert who Nate Lull of Gilbertsville cranks the winding mechanism can fine tune the workings for the E. Howard & Co. tower clock installed in the middle of the Gilbert Block clock. gable of the Gilbert Block in 1894. Besides its inner work“I’ve been collecting mechanical ings, the clock’s exterior watches for years. My obsession began also needs a facelift. with my grandmother’s banjo clock “It probably needs some fresh paint, that hung in her living room throughout and we may look into the archives at my childhood. It needed to be wound the library to get a better idea of what every seven or eight days—same as the the clock looked like in the past. We village clock,” Herbert said. want to preserve its historical integrity The banjo clock now hangs on the but also make it more visible,” Nate living room wall of the Spring Street said. “We want to have the clock’s exte- home Herbert shares with his wife, rior work done by this spring,” Herbert Taryn Grimes, an author and producer. “I’m not sure when it was manufacsaid. Herbert’s interest in maintaining tured, but it was made by Gilbert Clock the Gilbert Block clock springs from company in Winsted, Connecticut. a professed “lifelong passion for time Coincidence? I think not,” Herbert mused. keeping.”
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7
Led by BVA, Alternatives Sought for Banking in Morris Area The working group is also exploring ways to ensure the viability of the n October 2023, Community historic bank building. The edifice was Bank NA announced the January built around 1830 and used variously as 19 closing of yet another of its a general store, a hat store, shoe store, branches—this one in Morris. A hue and harness shop, and post office before cry immediately went up throughout the Moore’s Banking House began occuarea. The closing affects not only the pancy in 1856. Community Bank has Village of Morris but a wider geographcommunicated its intention to sell the ical swath which includes the towns of building and is not forbidding occupancy New Lisbon, Morris, and Butternuts, the by another bank, as was initially rumored. Village of Gilbertsville, and the hamlet If it is not feasible to continue branch of Garrettsville. Calls were made, ebanking in the building through another mails and letters were sent, and petitions institution, the working group is looking were signed, to no avail. at alternative uses and potential buyers The Butternut Valley Alliance, a local who would keep the building in operanon-profit organization the mission of tion and respect its historic character. which is to encourage the Butternut “An important resource in our valley Creek watershed to become a better is the historic quality of our main streets. place to live, work, and play, quickly People value that about our small organized a counter offensive, calling villages and want our historic buildings a public meeting on November 20 to to continue to contribute to the vitality Photo by Maggie Brenner of our community,” said Morris resident identify the greatest concerns to the community. From that meeting, a volun- The January 19 closing of the Morris branch of Communiity Bank NA saw the expedi- Stacia Norman, who is a trustee of the teer working group, “Save Our Bank,” tious boarding up of the bank’s ATM machine. The closing marked the end of 167 years Morris Historical Society. of banking service at the 132 Main Street location. was established and began immediately On January 29, the BVA working group exploring possibilities for maintaining Acknowledging the challenges in simply opening held a public meeting at the Gatehouse some form of banking in Morris. Its criteria were: a new branch, the working group expressed a will- Coffee Shop to apprise the community of develop• Matching interest rates and other account bene- ingness to explore a variety of solutions, including ments. Approximately 20 people attended. fits for Community Bank account holders who might different services offered by a combination of “We had really hoped that we would at least have a transfer their accounts to a new provider; providers. solution to announce when the bank was shuttered so • A night depository or some ability to safely hold While the credit unions expressed initial interest, that residents could make plans,” Brenner said at the daily cash transactions for businesses; they have not remained engaged. Two banks, however, meeting, “but what we are learning is that there are • An ATM or no-charge cash access, check depos- have continued to work with BVA to develop solu- no quick, simple answers. A bank charter for a new iting and cashing capability for residents; tions, according to Maggie Brenner, BVA co-chair. branch can take up to six months. And first we have • Access to cash for businesses (making change, While Norwich Bank and Trust does not feel to engage a new bank.” filling tills); opening a branch is viable, it has committed to Brenner also said that community interest remains • Ability of towns and villages to make large enhancing the existing ATM on Broad Street in high and those in attendance at the meeting seemed deposits (cash and checks) within 24 hours of Morris (between the ice cream shop and laundromat), reassured about the approach the working group has receipt; Brenner said. taken and the progress made. • Affiliation with a nearby brick-and-mortar facility Scott White, president of The Bank of Cooperstown, “I was very encouraged to see all that the for other banking needs, such as financial guidance has participated in discussions with the working group committee had accomplished. It was heartening to to residents and businesses. to identify opportunities for Morris. Solutions being see the community coming together to figure out A request for proposals was developed and explored include expanding operations to open a branch what individuals, businesses, and municipalities in sent to three area banks and four credit unions. in Morris or providing mobile banking services. Continued on page 11
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JAMES E. SAWYER
James E. Sawyer 1943-2024
ONEONTA—James E. Sawyer, 80, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 27, 2024. He was born June 13, 1943 in Oneonta, the son of Emory C. and Mary E. (Taylor) Sawyer. Jim graduated from Oneonta High School, Class of 1961 and one month later he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Cone (DD 866) and was honorably discharged in August of 1965 with the rank of RM3. Upon returning home from the military, Jim joined his father in the family business at Sawyer Cleaners Inc. and continued working there until 1993, when the business was sold. Jim also served the City of Oneonta as a
fireman—first as a call man February 11, 1971— and became a full-time firefighter on February 14, 1974 as a result of the D&H train derailment on February 12, 1974 and retired after 22 years of faithful service on July 28, 1996. Jim married Jean A. Whiteman on April 21, 1962 at the First Presbyterian Church in Oneonta. He was a member of the Oneonta Elks Club and the Oneonta American Legion. Jim took great pride in his family. He enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren at their sporting events, especially Friday Night Football at OHS. He was also involved with the Cub Scouts, camping with the Boy Scouts, and coaching basketball for a church league. He cherished the
moments with family dinners. They loved that he was able to make his mother’s spaghetti sauce, exactly the same as she did. He enjoyed grilling, even during the winter, as well as word finds and Sudoku. Jim is survived by his loving wife of just shy of 62 years, Jean Sawyer; children Jane E. Pidgeon (David Martin), John E. Sawyer (Penny Wikoff); grandchildren Ryan Pidgeon (Sabrina Pierce), Matthew and his wife, Shelby Pidgeon, Emily Sawyer, and Brandon Hansen; great-grandchildren Kelsi Neudel and Logan Sawyer; sisters Beverley Newkirk (Al Davis) and Judith Baxter (David’s daughter and family), Chelsea, Ryan, and Ryan and Bailey Campbell; former sonin-law Patrick Pidgeon; many nieces and nephews;
leWiS, HurleY & pietrobono
Rotary Exchange daughter Dr. Cha Perez-Mari; and all those affectionately known as his “buddy.” He was predeceased by his parents and brothersin-law John Newkirk and James Baxter. Calling hours will be 3-5 p.m. on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz Street, Oneonta. There will be an Elks Lodge of Sorrows Service at 4:45 p.m. The funeral service will be 11 a.m. on Friday, February 2 at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mark Montfort officiating and a Fireman’s Service conducted by the Oneonta Fire Department. The interment with military honors will be at the Oneonta Plains Cemetery at a later date. Donations may be made to the Oneonta
Heller & Skinner
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51 Dietz Street oneonta, nY 607-432-1511 www.lhpfuneralhome.com
155 Main Street Worcester, nY 607-397-9711 www.hellerskinnerfh.com
Proud to be family-owned John & Kathleen (Heller) Pietrobono
Fire Department Rescue Fund, 81 Main St., Oneonta, NY 13820.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.lhpfuneralhome.
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.
Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home 14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com
Funeral Home
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Dignified and Caring Service since 1925
Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings.
Peter A. Deysenroth
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Thursday, February 1 Friday, February 2 Saturday, February 3 Sunday, February 4
2024 Cooperstown Winter Carnival
Get a FREE insurance quote from us and we will donate $10 to the Winter Carnival Committee!
LOCAL BIRTHDAY PARTIES!
Interactive BALL WALL GAMES coming soon! Daily local dairy ice cream specialities!
Winter Carnival Weekend!
Central New York’s Best Bar & Grill! Friday, Feb. 2 • 6-9 pm
COLD BREW ON TAP! HARD SELTZERS & CIDERS!
VISIT OUR DAIRY BAR!
LIVE MUSIC
Best Wishes Cooperstown Winter Carnival 2024!
Shawn Smith
Event by Shawn Smith Acoustic
OPENING IN MAY FOR OUR 21ST SEASON
Saturday, Feb. 3 • 8-11 pm
Expanded Ice Cream Parlor · B’day Parties · Wild West Large Outdoor Water Sluice for Gem Mining · Build-a-Buddy Hand Stuffed Teddy Bear Studio · Fossil Safari · Scavenger Hunt Kits Delicious Ice Cream Treats at the Dairy Barn
It’s a Wonderful Life Bash
4 Miles south of Cooperstown on State Rte 28 607-547-8330 · www.barnyardswing.com
Jason Wick’s
We are a full service florist offering fresh, creative designs and daily deliveries. 17 Main Street | Cherry Valley 607-264-3100 www.aroseisaroseflorist.net
Event by Jason Wick’s Check us out at the drink & chili contests in town! No cover all weekend 5418 State Highway • 28 Cooperstown 607-282-4525 • upstatebarandgrill.com
Cooperstown Winter Carnival SChedule highlightS
“Open Skate” 1-3 p.m. Free skate rentals, bring your own hot chocolate. Badger Park, 87 Beaver Street, Cooperstown.
Thursday, February 1
“Blizzard Bingo” 1:30-3 p.m. Support Otsego County Council of Senior Citizens. Admission, $10 suggested donation for 4 Bingo cards. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Road 52, Cooperstown.
“Cooperstown Winter Carnival Hot Cocoa Kick-Off” 4:30-6 p.m. Hot cocoa with all the fixings, words from Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh and fireworks at dusk. Featuring a visit with Princess Cinderella and Princess Rapunzel, live music, dancing, more. Adult beverages available, 21+. Fenimore Room, The Otesaga Resort Hotel, 60 Lake Street, Cooperstown.
“Walk the Planets” 1:30-3 p.m. Guided thousand-yard walk modeling our solar system at a scale that is relatable and awe-inspiring. Presented by Otsego County Conservation Association. Meet at Compton Bridge Conservation Area, 184 County Highway 11C, Cooperstown.
Friday, February 2 “Friends of the Village Library Book Sale” 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find a large variety of books of many genres to keep warm this winter and support the village library. Village Board Room, downstairs from the Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. Also on Saturday, February 3 and Sunday, February 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Sip, Shop, Adopt” 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tour the shelter, sip hot chocolate, contribute to the cause. Includes 50% discount in the thrift shop and on adoption fees. Susquehanna SPCA, 50825088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown. Also on Saturday, February 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “A Winterful Crafternoon” 2-6 p.m. Children and families are invited to stop in and complete a craft activity, from decorative snowflakes to an ice/snow slime, more. The Farmers’ Museum, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. “Race to the Top: Rock Climbing Competition” 3-5 p.m. Free, open to youth in grades K-6. All welcome. Non-members must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver to participate. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Road 52, Cooperstown. “Soup R’ Chili Dinner” 4-6 p.m. Chili, beef barley soup and broccoli chowder available in to-go quarts. Minimum suggested donation, $10/quart. Take-out only. Advanced orders appreciated. First Baptist Church, 21 Elm Street, Cooperstown. “Free Family Movie Night” 6 p.m. The Film Society of Cooperstown presents “Barbie” (2023). Held in the 2nd floor Ballroom, Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown.
saTurday, February 3 “Lions Club Pancake Breakfast” 8-11:30 a.m. $10/adult. Cooperstown Veterans Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Meet Your Local Heroes” 9 a.m. to noon. Visit with the Fire Department,law enforcement, village crews and the local EMS. Put out a “real” fire with the fire department, watch exciting demonstrations, and learn about the local heroes keeping our
“Free Ice Skate Sharpening Clinic” 2-4 p.m. Badger Park, Beaver Street, Cooperstown.
community safe. Free, open to kids of all ages. Cooperstown Fire Department, 24 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown. “Cooperstown Farmers’ Market” 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fresh vegetables, local meats and handmade crafts at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101 Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. “Utica Zoomobile Visits Cooperstown” 10-11 a.m. Upstairs Ballroom, Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Village Scavenger Hunt” 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Self-guided hunt through the village. Follow clues, unveil the mystery, and claim the prize. Start at the Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Rotary’s Frosty Fling” 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Silent auction, dozens of craft vendors, refreshments at the Cooperstown Food Pantry. St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street, Cooperstown. “Fenimore Quilt Club Show” 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Warm, artistic and antique quilts on display from local quilters. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Antique Snowmobile Show” Noon to 4 p.m. Pioneer Park, Pioneer Street, Cooperstown. Visit https://www.cooperstownwintercarnival. com/events-on-saturday-february-3-2024/antique-snowmobile-show “Clarence’s Frosty Sled Adventure and Snowpal Making Contest” Noon to 2 p.m. Winter activities including cookies, hot chocolate, snow sledding, and snowpal building contest. Featuring special appearances by the Snow Sisters and American Hero. No snow? No problem, build an epic stick sculpture with the group. Lake Front Terrace, Cooperstown.
“Craft for the Craft” 4:30-6:30 p.m. Fun craft beer tasting, for those aged 21+. Donations accepted. Masonic Lodge, 77 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Sports Trivia Night” 5-7 p.m. Bring the family to test sports knowledge and win cool cash prizes. Fun and friendly competition with a cash bar available. Templeton Hall, 63 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown.
sunday, February 4 “Geocaching” 10 a.m. Go treasure hunting with GPS devices, explore the outdoors, find a few surprises on the way. Start at Pioneer Park, Cooperstown. “Get the Kids Out: Winter Walk” 1 p.m. Children’s hike around the village to discover the natural beauty of winter. Dress warmly. Registration not required. Presented by Otsego County Conservation Association. Meet at the Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Pitch Tournament” Play cards all day. $20/team. Veterans Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Winter Carnival Lock Box Challenge” 2-4 p.m. Solve the clues and open the box to free Frosty. Free, famiy friendly activity that typically takes 30 minutes. Includes hot cider and cookies from Lamb Realty. Upstairs Ballroom, Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. “Blizzard Bash” 3-5 p.m. First ever winter carnival wrap up featuring a tailgaging party, face painting, prize winning games, pie eating contest, a fun bouncy house, bon fire and warming station and more. Round out the night with a mesmerizing Tesla Car Light Show. Free, open to the public. Doubleday Field Parking Lot, Cooperstown. For the full carnival schedule, visit https://www.cooperstownwintercarnival.com/
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9
Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump and Auction Slated This Month By WRILEY NELSON MILFORD he Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump, a beloved local winter tradition and charity event, will return for its 26th year on Saturday, February 17. Each year, hundreds of participants head out on the ice to brave the freezing water and raise money for local children, adults, and organizations. Polar Bear Jump organizers also host an auction, raffle and awards banquet as part of their charitable efforts. Longtime area residents Brenda and Jamie Waters organized the first Goodyear Lake jump with a handful of participants in 1996 after enjoying a charity plunge in Alexandria Bay. They still run it with the help of many local volunteers. The program expanded from there into a major annual event that draws flocks of enthusiastic jumpers from across Central New York and beyond. Although the 2020, 2021 and 2022 jumps were canceled due to the COVID19 pandemic or other factors, the tradition came back with a vengeance in 2023. As two Iron String Press staff members who
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participated in that jump can attest, the call of icecold water, community and a good cause is one that many seem unable to resist. Entire families and friend groups fundraise and jump as teams. The crowd of participants, volunteers, and spectators who mill around on the ice and cheer for each jumper bring a carnival atmosphere to the event. Each participant raises at least $100.00 in sponsorships from friends and acquaintances, but few of them stop there. Nine local children with chronic or severe health conditions were selected as this year’s recipients: Callie Shaw, Taylor Piucci, Rowan DeCocker, Windsor Tietjen, Madison Monton, Max Pascarella, Scarlett Vandermark, Jax Baldwin and Harlee Booker. Visit pbjump. com/recipient-stories/ to read their stories. “We don’t actively look for recipients, but we always find them, and we never get overwhelmed with too many,” Jamie Waters said. “Participants and volunteers, as well as former recipients or friends of theirs will put us in touch with local people in need.” “We’re closing in on $2 million raised in total
Photo provided
Nine local children with chronic or severe health conditions were selected as this year’s recipients of Polar Bear Jump.
over the last 25 years,” Waters continued. “If we don’t hit that mark this year, it will be next year. We’re able to give 100 percent of donations to the recipients, which is not something a lot of charities can do. We have no overhead and no board, since we’re 100 percent volunteerrun, and our auction and raffle cover the costs of insurance, T-shirts, and equipment.” The auction will be held at Milford Central School at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 4. It features a wide variety of items donated by many local residents and businesses, as well
as a concession stand. Drawing will take place from 2:30-3:30 p.m. There is a $3.00 entry fee for attendees 13 or older. “We accept donations for the auction up to the very last minute,” Waters said. “There is also a raffle at the awards banquet, so we can use later donations for that. Gift certificates, food, anything you can think of. Truly, anything helps. The community here is amazing. We don’t get told ‘no’ very often when we ask for support.” For more information on the auction and raffle, or to donate an item, call Brenda at (607) 2867101. Raffle tickets are
Don Olin
Stop by for goodies and drinks before, during and after Winter Carnival!
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37 Chestnut street · Cooperstown 607-547-5622 · 607-547-5653 (fax) parking is never a problem!
Winter Carnival 2024
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Enjoy the Winter Carnival! Be safe and stay warm! 21 Railroad Avenue, Suite 2-4 Cooperstown, NY 607-282-4401 www.laurenglynnlaw.com
Good Luck Cooperstown Winter Carnival!
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return jumpers tell us how moving it is to make a difference.” Call (607) 286-7101 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. for sign-up information. Registration begins at 9 a.m. on the February 17 at the Portlandville Methodist Church, 2878 State Route 28. Jumpers are strongly advised to register by 11:30 a.m. All participants must raise at least $100.00; those who raise $500.00 or more are eligible for a free sweatshirt. Each jumper must also sign a waiver, or have a minor waiver signed by a parent or guardian for participants ages 12-17. The jump itself begins at 12:30 p.m. Participants are reminded to bring dry towels and a change of clothing. The awards banquet will be held at the Oneonta Elks Lodge, 84 Chestnut Street, at 6:30 p.m. Monetary donations can be made by check, made out to Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump and mailed to PO Box 289, Milford, NY 13807, or by Venmo @goodyearlakepolarbearjump. For additional information, to volunteer as a jumper or assistant, or to make a donation, call Brenda Waters, visit www. pbjump.com, or check the Facebook page.
Thursday, February 1 Friday, February 2 Saturday, February 3 Sunday, February 4
2024 Cooperstown Winter Carnival Good luck and have fun at the Cooperstown Winter Carnival!
$5.00 or six for $20.00. They can be purchased at the event or at Munson True Value (5662 State Route 7) or Information Systems Division (98 Chestnut Street), both in Oneonta. Additionally, Oneonta Redemption Center (6730 State Route 23) will accept bottle and can donations until the day of the jump. “The jump has taken on a life of its own,” Waters said. “A lot of participants come back year after year. It’s like a family. People enjoy participating and hanging out with the other jumpers. There is a 60-person team from Stamford that always raises a ton of money, and they also help us find donors and recipients down in Delaware County. It’s ultimately about the people who are part of this family.” Both Brenda and Jamie emphasized the awards banquet as the most rewarding part of the experience. “It’s great to participate in the jump, but to get the full experience you really have to come to the banquet,” Brenda said. “It is really something truly special to see how much we as a group are able to give to the recipients. Many of our
Adult Home, Respite Care, Adult Social Day Program One Main Street • Cooperstown, NY 607-547-0600
Stay warm and have fun during the 2024 Cooperstown Winter Carnival! Thinking about becoming a member? Contact us on facebook: Richfield Springs Lions Club PO Box 522 • Richfield Springs, NY 13439 315-858-2930
Looking forward to another great Winter Carnival! Ashley-Connor Here’s to another successful Cooperstown Winter Carnival! LAMB REALTY Out Ahead of the Flock!
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A-10 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA SPORTS SNIPPETS
Coop Hoops Continue Run COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown girls basketball demolished Poland 47-22 on Friday, January 6. Senior Rory Nelen put away 17 points, six rebounds, three steals and a block. Junior Brenna Seamon scored eight points and made nine rebounds. The Hawkeyes hosted Poland again on Thursday, January 11, and once again handed out a 46-19 drubbing. Nelen contributed 16 points, 11 rebounds, six steals and two blocks. Junior Mia Kaltenbach added 12 points and six steals. Nelen achieved her second double in a row with 20 points and 14 rebounds as the Hawkeyes defeated Sauquoit Valley 50-39 on Thursday, January 18. Senior Tori France put away six points, four steals and three assists. Nelen put her third consecutive double in the books with 15 points and 12 rebounds during Cooperstown’s blowout 58-15 victory against Waterville on Monday, January 22. Seamon recorded a double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, and Kaltenbach scored 17 points. The Hawkeyes slipped past Stamford/Jefferson 47-41 in a road game on Friday, January 26. Nelen fell just short of her fourth back-to-back double, putting away 17 points and nine rebounds. Kaltenbach scored 13 more points. France added six points, seven steals and four assists. Cooperstown celebrated its graduating players with a 47-36 victory against Center State Conference Division II rivals Mount Markham at home on Monday, January 29. Seamon recorded another double with 19 rebounds and 13 points. Nelen scored 15 points and made 8 rebounds. The team stands at 11-5 for the season and 5-2 in their division. They will face division leader Hamilton on Monday, February 5. On the boys’ side, senior Charlie Lambert recorded 32 more points in his first outing after reaching the 1,000-point mark, but the Hawkeyes fell to Mount Markham 69-61 on Monday, January 8. He also recorded seven rebounds, six assists and six steals. The Hawkeyes led 40-27 at the half but fell to a concerted comeback effort in the Center State Conference
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Legal nOtice NOTICE OF MEETING Otsego County, New York Meeting: Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board Called by: Chair, John Hill Date: Tuesday, February 6 Time: 10 a.m. Place: Public Health Nursing Conference Room, Meadows Office Complex, 140 County Highway 33 W, Cooperstown. Purpose: Review District Open Enrollment Requests Dated: 1/26/2024 Legal nOtice NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF NEW JERSEY Docket No. FM-02-1392-23 To: ROBERT KIRCHHOEFER By order of the Superior Court of New Jersey, in a cause of action for divorce seeking dissolution of the marriage pending before the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Family Part, Bergen County, wherein a complaint has been filed where Emely Kirch-
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hoefer is the Plaintiff and you are the Defendant, you are hereby notified that a Proposed Final Judgment setting forth the relief sought by the Plaintiff has been filed with the Clerk of the Superior Court, Family Part, Bergen County Courthouse, 10 Main Street, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601. The Default Hearing is scheduled for March 27, 2024 at 1:30 pm. A copy of the Notice can be examined at the Family Division Manager’s office at the Bergen County Courthouse.
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, 93 Chestnut Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act. 6LegalMar.7
LATERRA & HODGE, LLC 45 Essex Street Suite 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601 (201) 419-6070 Attorneys for Plaintiff Ms. Emely Kirchhoefer Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF The Cleaning Club, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 01/23/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County.
Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Articles of Organization of Schweitzer CS LLC (the “LLC”) were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on January 5, 2024, effective upon the date of filing. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 21 Frederick Avenue, Babylon, New York 11702. Purpose: General. 6LegalMar.7
Division IV contest. Freshman Brody Murdock made 14 points and nine rebounds in the loss. The Cooperstown boys lost another close contest to Sherburne-Earlville 54-50 on Friday, January 12. Lambert scored 17 points and made six assists. Despite a hard-fought comeback attempt, the Hawkeyes were unable to overcome a slow start. After this pair of defeats, the boys beat Sauquoit Valley 79-71 at home on Wednesday, January 17. Lambert scored 26 points and junior Cooper Bradley made a double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Murdock added 16 points. The boys fell to division leader Hamilton 8247 on Friday, January 19, an uncharacteristically lopsided loss for the Hawkeyes. Lambert once again led with 17 points, seven rebounds, six assists and four steals. Murdock scored 13 points. The slide continued with a hard-fought 78-67 loss to Waterville on Saturday, January 27. Lambert scored 22 points and Bradley cobbled together another double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Murdock added 10 points and four steals. The boys fell to 8-8 for the season and 3-4 in their division.
CCS Volleyball Keeps Winning COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown volleyball team put away three more victories in the last two weeks. The Hawkeyes swept Stockbridge Valley in a lopsided non-conference match on Friday, January 19. They had slightly more difficulty in a Center State Conference Division II match at Clinton on Wednesday, January 24, but dispatched their opponents 3-1 after dropping the first set. Junior Grace Sperry recorded 19 kills and three blocks. Senior Sophia Hotaling made 38 digs, three kills and three aces. Senior Lucy Hayes added 33 assists, eight blocks and a kill. Junior Alexis Wolfe had four aces, 14 digs, 10 assists, five kills and a block. Senior Jill Lifgren made three blocks and four kills. Senior Violet Gentles put away 16 digs, four aces, three assists and six kills. Junior Mia Pelcer added 13 digs, 10 kills and an ace. Despite a slow start that threatened their first set,
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the Hawkeyes swept yet another strong opponent with a 28-26, 25-18, 25-10 victory over Sauquoit Valley on Thursday, January 24. Gentles made 12 digs, two aces, a block and seven kills. Hotaling put away 34 more digs, two aces and an assist. Hayes made 11 assists, nine digs and two kills. Wolfe had 11 digs, 10 assists, an ace and a kill. Pelcer recorded five kills, six digs and a block. Lifgren made six digs, six blocks, four kills and an ace. Cooperstown lost a close match to division leader and defending Section III Class C champion Mount Markham 3-2 on Monday, January 29. It was the first time the Mustangs were played to five sets this season; Cooperstown also lost to Mount Markham in four sets in December. Pelcer had 12 kills, five aces, 14 digs and a block. Hotaling put up 33 digs, an assist, three aces and two kills. Lifgren had six kills. Gentles made 20 digs, three kills and two aces. The Hawkeyes moved to 13-2 for the season and 8-2 in their division. They will face Waterville at home in Red Bursey Gymnasium for Senior Night after press time on Wednesday, January 31.
CCS HoF Nominations Open COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Central School and the Cooperstown Sports Booster Club announced that nominations are open for the school Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2024. They aim to induct a minimum of five individuals and two teams at the homecoming weekend ceremony in late September or early October. Anyone may nominate a Cooperstown athlete for consideration; to be eligible, a nominee must be a CCS graduate of the class of 2014 or earlier. Nominated teams must have played before the spring of 2014. Coaches, administrators, and boosters will also be considered; coaches and administrators must be retired from the school for at least two years. The deadline for all nominations is Monday, March 11. More details about the homecoming weekend ceremony and other CCS Athletic Hall of Fame and Booster Club activities will be announced later. Continued on page 11
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NY 11228. Purpose: General. 6LegalMar.7
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
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Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 174 Main St Otego, NY 13825. General Purpose 6LegalFeb.29
NY-80 Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.29
& shall mail to Aidan Sawyer 211 County Rd 52 Cooperstown, NY 13326 General Purpose 6LegalFeb.22
SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served and shall mail process to Gina M. Colone: 17 River Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. General Purpose 6LegalFeb.15
Articles of Organization of Schweitzer GC LLC (the “LLC”) were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on May 15, 2023, effective upon the date of filing. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 21 Frederick Avenue, Babylon, New York 11702. Purpose: General. 6LegalMar.7 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Randylayne And Sons Consulting LLC. Filed 1/7/24. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 23 Watson St., Unadilla, NY 13849. Registered Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave , Ste 202, Bklyn,
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Serowski LLC. Filed 11/08/23. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process&shall mail to: 131 Clintonville rd Milford NY 13807. Purpose: General. 6LegalMar.7 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Gun Club Rd LLC. Filed with SSNY on 1/22/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 4305 61st St Apt C2 Woodside NY 11377. Purpose: any lawful 6LegalMar.7 Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Roaming Roots Farm LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/14/2024.
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company.
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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF
Name:
NOTICE OF FILING: APPLICATION FOR AUTHORITY (FOREIGN LLC).
Quicksilverkeys LLC
TIN BIN ALLEY LLC.
ADESACOLE LLC
filed w/ SSNY 1/18/24. Off. in Otsego Co. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to the LLC, PO Box 386, Oneonta, NY 13820. Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.29
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 11 January 2024. 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 114 Main St, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalFeb.22
Application for authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/29/23. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to DOYINSOLA HALIMAT OGBEIFUN : 14 Tilton Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.22
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Legal nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Terraforge Motorsports LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State Of New York (SSNY) on 01/14/2023. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against may be served. SSNY should mail process to Alfred W. Quick: 7553
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BARREL SEE LLC
Friends of the Feral TNR – Otsego LLC,
Arts of Org. filed SSNY 11/27/23, Otsego Co. SSNY design agent for process
Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/27/2023. Cty: Otsego.
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of TRAVELING TOOLS HANDYMAN SERVICES LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 11/30/23, Otsego Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to Zenbusiness Inc. 41 State St #112 Albany, NY 12207 General Purpose 6LegalFeb.1 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Golden Swan Trading LLC. Articles of Organization filed with SSNY on 11/28/2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated agent with service of process address: PO Box 1469, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.1
►Need to publish a Notice of Formation, Public Notice, Supplemental Summons, or Notice to Bidders? Contact Larissa at 607-547-6103 or ads@allotsego.com and she can get you started.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
Nurses
Continued from page 1 7 percent boost in their pay effective the first full pay period after ratification, followed by additional increments of 3 percent over the course of the following three years—amounting to a 16 percent overall base wage increase. The contract also includes an increase in pay differentials for evening and night shift workers, as well as for charge nurses. A new sign-on bonus and referral bonus program was created to help recruit new nurses to A.O. Fox. “We are thrilled our nurses secured a contract that recognizes their tireless work and dedication to improving the quality of patient care,” said NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, RN, BSN, CCRN. “Our members have spoken and won a new contract with fair pay and safe staffing that will help the hospital fill vacancies and deliver quality care.” The agreement also includes creation of a new staffing and quality care committee to strengthen enforcement of safe staffing standards. In December, nurses held a speak-out in front of the hospital, calling out the vacancy rate of 50 percent. The nurses’ contract gains will help the hospital recruit and retain enough healthcare professionals for safe, quality patient care, according to NYSNA. “As a nurse with over 25 years of experience at A.O. Fox, I am encouraged by the positive changes in our new contract. This agreement not only recognizes the dedication of our nursing staff but also addresses critical concerns around working conditions. I believe these improvements will allow us to provide the level of care our community truly deserves,” said Diane Earl, RN, CEN. “We deeply appreciate the extraordinary work our nurses do each day to care for our patients and communities,” said
Angela Belmont, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, senior vice president, chief nursing executive at Bassett Healthcare Network. “We are committed to continuing our efforts to recruit and retain nurses and other clinical staff to our local area. “For nurses and other clinical professionals working to grow their careers at Bassett Healthcare Network, we are always developing new educational opportunities, supportive ways to earn certifications and clinical experiences, and pathways to grow into leadership positions. I am grateful to our nurses across the network for sharing their ideas and advocating passionately for our patients and communities with us. The people who work here are special,” Belmont said. Sign-on bonuses up to $35,000.00 for RNs, up to $20,000.00 for many other clinical positions, and $10,000.00 for other types of positions have been extended and remain in place at Bassett Healthcare Network. Referral bonuses are also being offered to employees who help refer candidates to all positions.
Briefs
Continued from page 3 surgical procedures can now be accomplished in one setting; this greatly improves precision in real time during clinical interventions.” While heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and globally, five of Bassett’s neighboring counties have heart disease death rates consistently above or far above the New York State and national averages. In fact, Chenango County ranked among the three highest death rates in New York State’s 62 counties every year for heart disease between 2006 and 2020. “The hybrid operating room is designed for the care of patients with cardiovascular emergencies,” said Dr. Matthew Kleinmaier, chief of
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-11 Emergency and Trauma Services at Bassett Healthcare Network. “It allows our vascular surgeons and cardiac electrophysiologists to complete their cases in a purpose-built space while making other surgical spaces available for additional patients. Building the hybrid operating room has significantly increased our capacity to care for patients with specialized cardiovascular needs.”
HoF
Continued from page 3 an awards presentation on Saturday, July 20. The Ford C. Frick Award for baseball broadcasting will be presented to Joe Castiglione and the BBWAA Career Excellence Award will be given to the late Gerry Fraley.
BVA
Continued from page 7 the Butternut Valley need and then to investigate possible solutions to meet those needs. One of our valley’s greatest resources is the community. Ironic that Community Bank doesn’t recognize that,” said Norman. “It’s so nice to see such a dedicated organization doing the research and the leg work for this community. I know there isn’t a quick and easy fix, but we really appreciate the updates the BVA provides us and the continued work they are doing for this effort,” said Chris Riffle, Butternuts resident and co-owner of Morris’ Gatehouse Coffee Shop.
Sports
Continued from page 10 Visit www.cooperstowncs.org/page/ccsathletics-hall-of-fame or contact Athletic Director Josh Wagner at JWagner@ cooperstowncs.org with questions or to make a nomination. Booster Club President Greg Klein suggests advocates for previously nominated candidates contact him at JYDBook@gmail.com.
Photo provided
Dingonek will perform at The Otesaga next Friday, February 9.
Brass Fusion Band To Perform COOPERSTOWN ooperstown Concert Series will welcome the Brooklyn-based brass fusion quintet Dingonek Street Band to the stage on Friday, February 9 at 7 p.m. at The Otesaga Resort Hotel. According to organizers, Dingonek has created a funky, high-energy party music all its own by absorbing and reworking elements of Afrobeat, ethno-jazz, punk rock, free jazz, and Balkan brass music, built on the celebratory energy and raw spontaneity of the second-line brass band tradition. “We are thrilled to be bringing a brass street band from Brooklyn to our stage this season,” stated CCS Board President Arthur Weinstock in a press release. “The raw energy of Dingonek is exhilarating! “Our mission is to present live music events that promote cultural growth, while intriguing and entertaining the audience,” Weinstock continued. “Dingonek Street Band exemplifies our mission and we’re eager to bring their sound to Cooperstown.” The band began in Boston in 2013 as trumpeter Bobby Spellman’s Underground Society Band. A Monday night residency at the legendary Middle East Nightclub allowed the gang of musicians to work out new material and hone the unique sound of the group. Over time, the brass-based
C
jazz band began incorporating more sounds from around the world, and they gravitated toward the funkier side of their unconventional repertoire. “We’re excited to be returning to upstate New York to perform for the Cooperstown Concert Series, and to be featured in such a long-standing, eclectic performing arts program,” said Spellman, trumpeter and band leader for Dingonek Street Band. “Our band strives to find new paths to the roots of human jubilation
through musical exploration and unbridled improvisation,” added Spellman, “and we’re ready to bring our highenergy brass fusion and funky party music to the Cooperstown audience.” Tickets for the concert are available online and at the door: $20.00 for adults, $10.00 for students (with college ID), $10.00 for youth ages 6-18, and free for children under 6 years old. For more information, visit cooperstownconcertseries.org/dingonekstreet-band-feb-9
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A-12 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
The
Elections
job scene job scene
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SUPERVISOR
Sportsfield Specialties is seeking an Accounts Receivable Supervisor for its Delhi, NY location, to oversee/supervise the day-to-day operations and activities of all accounts receivable’s business procedures, functions, and collection processes to ensure compliance with internal accounting policies and controls.
Responsibilities/Duties incluDe but not limiteD to: • Monitor all open customer receivable balances to access risk of uncollectible accounts and report high-risk accounts to Assistant Controller. • Track and report weekly receivables with Credit and Collection Specialist. • Review credit applications, sales contracts, sub-contractor agreements, pre-qualifications. • Analyze legal obligation clauses that bind the company to perform as indicated. • Resolve customer credit and billing issues. •Produce customs paperwork when required for international shipments. • Assist Sales to establish credit for new customers. • Complete monthly project billings, AIA forms are usually required. • Process credit memos for returned customer shipments. • Manage company project related licenses and registration requirements (Contractor’s Licenses, Business Licenses and State Registrations). • Monitor State Compliance and submit required reporting. • Perform analysis as needed. • Perform other duties as assigned. RequiReD qualifications: skills: • Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal and negotiation skills. • Proven ability to create and maintain positive internal and external working relationships through frequent, efficient, and impactful communication. • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite products and ERP systems (SAP, NetSuite, Epicor, etc.). • Strong supervisory and leadership skills. • Ability to function well in a fast-paced and at times demanding environment. • Outstanding communication, organizational, attention-to-detail and problem-solving skills. EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION: • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or similar field and minimum of 4 years’ experience. • 2 years’ experience in a supervisory/ management role. Salary Range $60k -65k per year DOE, great benefit package includes but not limited to: health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, life insurance, flexible spending and paid time off. To apply, submit application online, apply in person at 41155 State Highway 10, fax resume to (607) 746-3107 or send resume to: Human Resources, P.O. Box 231, Delhi, NY 13753. Sportsfield Specialties, Inc. is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. We do not sponsor employment visas. an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.
To place effective employment ads, call 607-547-6103
PRODUCT DESIGNER Sportsfield Specialties, Inc. is seeking a Product Designer for its Delhi, NY location who can facilitate the design, development, construction and modification of steel, aluminum, and concrete structures for sports construction projects. Responsibilities/Duties incluDe but not limiteD to: • Participate in the launch of new projects by determining materials, methods, processes, schedules, and procedures. • Coordinate with Structural/Civil Engineers on design and construction activities. • Identify opportunities and/or implement changes to improve products and reduce costs. • Work closely with other departments and customers to coordinate design engineering activities. • Create engineering drawings, layouts, and specifications particularly for steel, aluminum, and concrete structures. • Perform cost estimation and project take-offs. • Create manufacturing drawings for production release. • Create, edit and update BOM and Production Orders within an ERP environment (Epicor). RequiReD qualifications: skills: • Familiarity with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred). • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Strong technical background along with innovative approach to problem solving. • Solid organizational and project management skills including attention to detail and multi-tasking. expeRience/eDucation: • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a Technical or Construction related discipline. • 5+ years equivalent experience also considered in lieu of education requirements. • Entry level and experienced candidates encouraged to apply. Salary range $55- $75k/year DOE, great benefit package includes but not limited to; health, dental, vision, 401(k), Flexible Spending, life insurance and paid time off. To apply, submit application online at www.sportsfield. com, apply in person at 41155 St. Hwy 10, fax your resume to (607) 746-3107 or mail to Human Resources, P.O. Box 231, Delhi, NY 13753. Sportsfield Specialties, Inc. is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. We do not sponsor employment visas.
Continued from page 4
of Elections (140 County Highway 33W, Suite 2, Cooperstown, NY 13326). • Download a form at (https://www.elections. ny.gov/NYSBOE/download/voting/voteregformeng-fillable.pdf), fill it out and return the form to the County Board of Elections either by mail (postmarked by March 18) or in person. • Register online at https://www.elections. ny.gov/OnlineVoterReg. html. Complete the form and adhere to these deadlines: • If you want to change your enrollment so you are eligible to vote in either of the primaries, you need to return your voter registration form before February 14. • If are not currently registered to vote in New York, you must register before March 23 if you wish to vote in the presidential primary or before June 15 for the New York State primary. Keep in mind that only primary elections are closed. At the general election in November, it will not matter how you are registered. When you vote, you can choose any candidate on the ballot. Remember, your vote makes a difference, so take some time to get ready to go to the polls. Throughout the election season, the LWV will be exploring the issues surrounding the elections and helping voters prepare for election season 2024. A series of columns between now and October 2024 will focus on such topics as misand disinformation, military and absentee voting, and how the election process works. Patty MacLeish and Aviva Schneider are members of the Board of Directors of the League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area.
Wind
Continued from page 1 to produce electricity without burning fossil fuels—are intermittent, which means that reliable baseload production must remain in place and, subsequently, either fossil fuel or nuclear production must continue. Schue noted that closure of Indian Point’s nuclear reactors in 2019 has resulted in a large increase in emissions from the fossil fuel sources needed in the absence of nuclear generation. “Downstate’s production is dirty, while upstate has a very green profile,” Schue said. Knauth addressed issues surrounding large wind turbines based on land, moving through the problems of wind resources (New York is among the poorest places for wind energy production in the continental United States, he said), bird and bat kills, and human health effects. The last category has numerous aspects and ramifications, Knauth stressed. There is the
physical danger of ice throw. It can travel out to 10 times the blade diameter from the turbine, he said. In the case of the proposed 650-foot turbines in Stark, that means more than one mile. Health effects such as shadow flicker and infrasound are also worrisome, Knauth explained. Closing one’s eyes to avoid flicker exacerbates the effect, and individuals prone to seizures can be in more danger, he continued. Sound problems can lead to health effects such as insomnia, hypertension and headaches. Overall, Knauth noted, these turbines are an unwise investment at best. Helmin, president of Stop Energy Sprawl, a coalition of groups across the state who oppose New York’s energy policy, of which Schue is also a member. spoke about the need to get involved on the local and state levels in order to influence the direction of our fight against climate change. “Developers from all over the world are here in New York with their hands out, looking for the subsidies. They’re here not because the wind blows best or the sun shines most. It’s about the money,” Helmin warned. A return to the principles of Home Rule is needed, Helmin added. A short question-andanswer session followed the panel presentations. Another session on the subject is scheduled for February 7 at 7 p.m. in the Town of Otsego Town Hall.
LEAF
Continued from page 5 employees on their wellbeing and the wellbeing of their organization, it makes sense that we offer naloxone (Narcan) for their location as just one more piece of their overall wellness. You may have seen the recent coverage of the ONEbox™ initiative that we’re doing in partnership with the Oneonta Narcan Initiative Team. Placing lifesaving naloxone first-aid kits in businesses can help to save a life if someone were to ever have an opioid overdose crisis. If your Otsego County business, church, school, or organization has a brick-and-mortar location and would like to have a ONEbox ™ naloxone kit, give us a call at (607) 432-0090. We can make arrangements for you to have one, free of charge. We will also help you maintain it and keep it supplied. Our greatest hope would be that you never have to use it. And, on the off chance that an overdose should happen, the lifesaving antidote to an overdose will be close at hand. Julie Dostal is the executive director of the LEAF Council on Alcoholism & Addictions, Oneonta. PREFER READING YOUR NEWS ONLINE? SUBSCRIBE TO ALLOTSEGO.COM 607-547-6103
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
Letters
Continued from page 4 In 2023, murder rates plummeted faster than ever before, according to FBI statistics. Murder is down 12.7 percent with a decline registered in three-quarters of the more than 175 cities with available data. These are the largest percent declines ever recorded in overall violent crime, murder, rape, and aggravated assault, with near-record high declines in robbery, overall property crime, theft, and burglary. Yes, there is still a terrible level of gun violence in America, but we’re moving in the right direction in all areas except auto theft and, in some areas, shoplifting. In fact, the worst crime rates in the country occurred during the 1980s and very early 1990s, when Republicans Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush sat in the Oval Office. Crime rates have been on a downhill slide since then. We all heard Trump rage about “American carnage” in his 2017 inaugural address—he said there was a wave of violence sweeping our cities. He lied. Actual urban violence was near a generational low point at the time. But, bolstered by Fox and the right-wing media megaphone, his rhetoric resonated with many Americans. And as we know, Republicans only get concerned with crime when a Democrat
is president. Even if they have to make it up. Of course, there was a brief surge in violent crime during the pandemic, for all kinds of reasons. But that is simply no longer the case, as pointed out above. Violent crime rates are falling back to the low levels of the 2010s. So, if we’re going to be honest about crime, it’s time to tell your friends and family the truth: Republicans want us to believe that cities in blue states are hellscapes of crime. But the truth is just the opposite. Today, the murder rate in New York City, for instance, is about half that of Republican cities like Miami and Fort Worth. The good news is, Trump has been proven wrong again. The nation is heading back to our pre-pandemic, low levels of crime. The bad news is that the Republican noise machine still wants you to believe the worst, even though the facts prove otherwise. Sherwood Guernsey Rural Freedom Network Pittsfield, MA
Harman: ‘My Thanks to All’ Wow! I am honored, humbled and thankful for the tremendous article (“Harman re-flects…”, 1/25/24) and all the touching tributes shared in “The Freeman’s Journal” and the “Hometown Oneonta” papers, regarding my retirement. Thank you. The list is long, and
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-13 I cherish every one of the expressions made by Martha and Paul Clarvoe, Chip and Nancy Northrup, Otsego County Conservation Association, Otsego 2000, Otsego Land Trust, the Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District, Sam Smith’s Boatyard, the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership, SUNY Oneonta, the Cooperstown Graduate Program, AllOtsego. com, Jane Forbes Clark, and the directors of the Clark and Scriven foundations. Quotes from individuals mentioned in the article and others are especially appreciated since they are among the many people and organizations who have contributed to our efforts. These include SUNY Oneonta President Royal Netzer in 1968 for the opportunity to develop the BFS. The continuing support of administrators, faculty, staff, and students to this day, the entire BFS team, especially longtimers Matt Albright and Holly Waterfield. Steven C. Clark, who originally donated the land for the BFS, Jane Forbes Clark and the Clark and Scriven foundations for their ongoing support, Rufus J. Thayer for the farm. Willis D. Hadley, Louis Hager Jr., W. T. Sampson Smith, Dr. Ted Peters, Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, Robert Poulson, Donna Vogler, the Watershed Supervisory Committee, Upstate Freshwater Institute’s DaveAndrews,
Dean Tracy Allen, Joe Homburger and the many others that supported us over the years. My work for the past six decades has been my passion and a labor of love. I truly appreciate the accolades, but would emphasize that it takes a community—our community of concerned stakeholders—who have provided long-term support and contributions to the efforts at the Biological Field Station. Once again, my thanks. I am grateful for the outpouring of congratulations and acknowledgment of our efforts. But it’s truly your endeavors and support that has made all the difference. I am confident that the work that has been accomplished in the past will continue. It has been an honor and a privilege to have worked with so many concerned, active, able, and willing individuals, groups, and agencies to maintain the quality of our Lake Otsego and the surrounding environment. My thanks once again to those who have contributed over the years to the success of our work; we can all be proud. Dr. Willard N. Harman Cooperstown
Boxes Brought Joy to Many
Generosity throughout Cooperstown contributed to a successful shoebox gift collection season at drop-off locations for the Samaritan’s Purse project, Operation Christmas
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Child. Across the U.S., the project collected 10 million shoebox gifts in 2023. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2023, the ministry is now sending over 11.3 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide, including many who are suffering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. Through shoeboxes— packed with fun toys, school supplies, and personal care items— Cooperstown area volunteers brought joy to children in need around the world. Each gift-filled shoebox is a tangible expression of God’s love, and it is often the first gift these children have ever received. Through the continued generosity of donors since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. Across New York, shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a year-round volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get
involved year-round can also be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ or by calling (518) 437-0690. Although local drop off locations for shoebox gifts are closed until November 18-25, 2024, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at samaritanspurse. org/buildonline. These simple gifts, packed with love, send a message to children worldwide that they are loved and not forgotten. Jasmin Sutton Samaritan’s Purse
Debt Income Ratio Is Vital
The legitimacy of any financial institution is dependent on the level of debt income ratio. Drop in debt income ratio affects sustainability and trust in the system. “In God We Trust,” In Money We Must. Deficit spending is the Achilles’ heel of financial institutions. Kicking the can down the road only adds to vulnerability, like killing the goose that laid the golden egg. Gerry Welch Cooperstown
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what’s haPPENIN’ in OtsegO COunty _________ Send calendar items to info@allotsego.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024
A-14 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
►Fri., Feb. 2 REGISTRATION—Last day to register for “Otsego County 4-H Public Presentation Workshop.” Youth learn the basics of public presentation. To be held 2/10 at 9 a.m. The Rowe House, 31 Maple Street, Oneonta. (607) 433-2521 or visit https://cceschoharie-otsego.org/resources/connections-issue-7-1jan-feb-march-issue-2024 GARDEN—Noon-12:30 p.m. “What’s Bugging You? NYS Plant Regulation and Choosing Native Plants.” Integrated Pest Management webinars presented by Cornell on the first Friday of each month. Visit https://cals. cornell.edu/new-yorkstate-integrated-pestmanagement/outreacheducation/ POTTERY— 1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters are invited to work on personal projects and hone their skills. No instruction provided. $30/session. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org or visit https://www.smithyarts. org/ YARN CLUB— 2-3:30 p.m. First Friday each month. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980 or visit https://www.facebook. com/hmloneonta EXHIBIT OPENING— 5-8 p.m. “First Friday: Gifts of Wildflowers.” Gallery show on view through 2/25. 25 Main Collective, 25 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-5340 or visit https://www.facebook. com/25maincollective/ OPEN MIC—6 p.m. Share poetry, music, stories, comedy, dance and more. Admission by donation. Part of Cherry Valley First Fridays, featuring gallery openings,
music, food and fun. The Telegraph School, 81 Alden Street, Cherry Valley. info@thetelegraphschool. org or visit https://www. facebook.com/TheTelegraphSchool FIRST FRIDAY— 6-9 p.m. “Vinyl Night with DJ Raphael.” Bring vinyl records to play and get a raffle ticket. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33 Cooperstown. (607) 544-1800 or visit https://www.ommegang. com/events/first-fridaysvinyl-night-at-the-taphouse/ THEATER—8 p.m. “Moon Over Buffalo.” A farce about 2 comedians’ last chance at stardom. General admission, $20. Presented by Bigger Dreams Productions. Continues 2/3 at 8 p.m. and 2/4 at 2 p.m. then 2/9, 2/10 at 8 p.m. and 2/11 at 2 p.m. Production Center, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit https://www.biggerdreamsproductions.org/
►Sat., Feb. 3 BASEBALL—Noon to 2 p.m. Meeting of the Cliff Kachline Chapter of the Society for American Research set to feature baseball authors Erik Sherman, Gary Mintz and Baseball Hall of Fame President Josh Rawitch. Bullpen Theater, Baseball Hall of Fame, 25 Main Street, Cooperstown. (518) -848-1128 or visit the Facebook page. RECEPTION—1-3 p.m. “Art Reception: Charles Dalton.” Meet the artist, view works on display. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ WorcesterSchenevus SEWING CLASS— 1:30-3 p.m. “Threads Past to Present.” Learn to sew each Saturday with Linda Hovey. Hand sewing
what’s haPPENIN’ ►Tues., Feb. 6 in OtsegO COunty _________
and-accounting-department/vita/
or learn a new machine. dren aged 5 and under. Held each Saturday. The Cooperstown Village haPPENIN’ Green Giraffe,what’s 179 in Main Library, 22 Main Street, OtsegO COunty Street, Unadilla. (607) Cooperstown. (607) 369-3234. 547-8344 or visit https:// TELEHEALTH— www.facebook.com/Vil3-4:30 p.m. “MyBassett lageLibraryOfCooperfor You: Learn about Basstown/ sett’s Telehealth Options.” CONNECTIONS— Bassett representatives 10:30-11:30 a.m. “Onewill offer live telemedicine on-One Tech Support.” demos and assist with Reserve a spot to get MyBassett signup and help using a personal MyChart features. Get device, from iphones to questions answered and tablets. Held each first real-time help. CommuMonday of the month with nity Room, Clark Sports Debra Miller. Connections Center, 124 County Road at Clark Sports Center, 52, Cooperstown. Visit 124 County Highway 52, https://www.facebook. Cooperstown. connectioncom/otsegocountyOFA/ satcsc@gmail.com QUILT SHOW— ►Sun., Feb. 4 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Fenimore Quilt Club POLAR BEAR JUMP— Show.” Warm, artistic 12:30 p.m. Auction to and antique quilts on support this year’s redisplay from local quilcipients of the Polar Bear ters. On view through Jump. Milford Central 2/18. Cooperstown Art School, 42 West Main Association, 22 Main Street, Milford. (607) Street, Cooperstown. 286-7101 or visit https:// Visit https://www.cooperpbjump.com/auction/ stownart.com/ OUTDOORS—2-4 p.m. CONNECTIONS— “Queer Outdoors: Fresh 1 p.m. “The Strong-MindAir in the New Year.” Walk ed Women Are Comaround the state park ing.” Tom Heitz, Otsego and build snow people, town historian, presents followed by hot drinks. on Susan B. Anthony’s Robert V. Riddell State visit to Cooperstown Park, Davenport. (607) in 1855. Connections 547-4488 or visit https:// at Clark Sports Center, www.occainfo.org/calen124 County Highway 52, dar/queer-outdoors-fresh- Cooperstown. connectionair-in-the-new-year satcsc@gmail.com or visit https://www.facebook. ►Mon., Feb. 5 com/otsegocountyOFA TAX PREP—6-8 p.m. EXERCISE CLASS— “Free Tax Preparation.” 9-10 a.m. Each MonGet help with taxes day and Thursday with from IRS-certified volinstructor Carol Thompunteers. Held Mondays son. Worcester-Schenand Tuesdays through evus Library, 170 Main 4/15. 2nd floor, Golisano Street, Worcester. (607) Hall, Hartwick College, 1 397-7309 or visit https:// Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. www.facebook.com/ (607) 431-4338 or visit WorcesterSchenevus https://www.hartwick. PLAY & LEARN— edu/academics/aca10 a.m. Guided sendemic-departments/ sory learning for chilbusiness-administration-
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AllOTSEGO.
YOUTH—9:30 a.m. “Baby & Toddler Story Time.” Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980 or visit https:// hmloneonta.org/youthprograms/ COMMUNITY HIKE— 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment and water, and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at the Greenway, Oneonta. Contact hike leader Scott Fielder, (607) 433-2727, or visit https:// susqadk.org/ FLY CREEK QUILTERS—10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fly Creek Area Quilters meet to cut, sew, tie, bind and have a good time working on quilts. Held each Tuesday. Fly Creek Methodist Church, County Route 26, Fly Creek. SENIOR MEALS— 11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal each Tuesday & Thursday. Suggested donation is $3.50 for seniors, $10 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of beef barley soup, corn, warm biscuits and frosted cake. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (607) 547-6454 or visit https://www.facebook. com/otsegocountyOFA/ VIRTUAL TOUR—2 p.m. “Cooper, Cole, and the Hudson River School.” Manager of Arts Education Kevin Gray presents this live virtual tour exploring the collection of Cooper family memorabilia and works from members of the Hudson River School. Followed by Q&A session. Free, $10 suggested donation. Registration required. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-
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►Wed., Feb. 7 STORYTIME—10 a.m. Bring the children down each Wednesday for an entertaining story read aloud by library staff. Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/VillageLibraryOfCooperstown
►Visit allotsego.com/ otsego-county-events-calendar/ for the full calendar.
Buying AntiquES, JEwElry, firEArMS
INSURANCE
Ben Novellano
1400 or visit https://fenimoreartmuseum.org/ SOUP’S ON—4-5 p.m. “Homemade Soup To Go.” Free, all welcome. No age, socio-economic or church membership requirement. Continues Tuesdays through 3/19. Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6552. MEET & GREET— 5:30-7 p.m. “Welcome Home Cooperstown” gathering celebrates National Library Lover’s Month. Includes a book-themed craft and guest reader Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh reading “Lola in the Library.” Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344 or visit https://www.facebook. com/VillageLibraryOfCooperstown/ OPERA—7 p.m. “Midwinter Talking Opera!” Online program discussing upcoming Glimmerglass Operas “The Pirates of Penzance,” “Pagliacci,” “La Calisto” and “Elizabeth Cree” with Festival Artistic and General Director Rob Ainsley. Presented online by the Guild of the Glimmerglass Opera. Visit http://www.glimmerglassguild.org
Buzz Hesse Antiques & Appraisals, Estates, Artifacts Over 60 years experience Call today for a courteous and confidential talk 370 MAin StrEEt, otEgo 607-287-5320 buzzh123@gmail.com
Buying AntiquES, EStAtES, ArtifActS
33 YEAR! 1990-2023
New Purchases and Refinances Debt Consolidation Free Pre-Qualification Fast Approvals • Low Rates
Matt Schuermann
Registered Mortgage Broker NYS Banking Dept.
20 Chestnut Street • Suite 1 • Cooperstown 607-547-5007 www.leatherstockingmortgage.com
WANTED Seeking apartment in Cooperstown for single, elderly man Call 607-264-3321
Thinking of Selling Your House? Locally owned and operated Single and multi-family homes Commercial property and land
99 Main Street, Oneonta office 607.441.7312 fax 607.432.7580 www.oneontarealty.com Lizabeth Rose, Broker/Owner Cricket Keto, Licensed Assoc. Broker Peter D. Clark, Consultant
Inventory is low and buyers’ interest is at an all-time high! Call today! Our professional team of Realtors is excited to help 166 Main Street, Suite 1 you start the new year right by listing with Oneonta | 607.433.2873 Oneonta Realty and the Scanlon Homes Team. oneontarealty.com