Hometown Oneonta 05-23-24

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

New Asbury Gardens 248 River Street Oneonta 607-432-8703 newasburygardens.com

Legends Game To Be Played May 25 at Doubleday Field

COOPERSTOWN

With an all-star roster on the diamond May 25 at Doubleday Field, a legendary coaching staff consisting of Cooperstown heroes will lead the way at the Hall of Fame East-West Classic.

Six Hall of Famers will serve as coaches on both the East and West squads as the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum salutes Black baseball by hosting the Hall of Fame EastWest Classic: A Tribute to the Negro Leagues All-Star Game. Presented by Boeing and fueled by assistance from Major League Baseball, the Memorial Day Weekend celebration will feature more than two dozen former big leaguers in a seven-inning legends game.

The East squad will be coached by Fred McGriff, Eddie Murray, Jim Rice, Lee Smith, Joe Torre and Dave Winfield. The East team will include team captain Chris Young along with

players Josh Barfield, Mo’ne Davis, Doug Glanville, Tony Gwynn Jr., Jerry Hairston Jr., Scott Hairston, LaTroy Hawkins, Ryan Howard, Edwin Jackson, Jeremy Jeffress, Adam Jones, Russell Martin, Melvin Mora and David Price.

The West team will feature coaches Harold Baines, Jim Kaat, Rollie Fingers, Ken Griffey Jr., Fergie Jenkins and Ozzie Smith. CC Sabathia will be the team captain on a roster that will include Tim Beckham, José Contreras, Ian Desmond, Prince Fielder, Dexter Fowler, Curtis Granderson, Matt Kemp, Darrell Miller, Tyson Ross, Tony Sipp, Dee Strange-Gordon, B.J. Upton and Justin Upton.

Two-time All-Star Harold Reynolds of MLB Network will join Mets World Series hero Mookie Wilson as honorary team members. Former Negro Leagues stars Sam Allen and

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Memorial Day Observance Activities

Cherry Valley Memorial Day Parade. 10 a.m. Steps off from intersection of Main and Church streets and proceeds down Alden Street for a memorial service in the Cherry Valley Cemetery.

Cooperstown Memorial Day Observance. 11 a.m. Remember our fallen soldiers with keynote speaker Dr. Joon Shim, the Cooperstown High School band, local fire departments, other local organizations. Kicks off from the Cooperstown Vets Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown.

Gilbertsville Memorial Day Observance. 9 a.m. Kicks off at the Old School with the GMU marching band and proceeds up Bloom Street to Brookside Cemetery for a memorial ceremony. Finishes on Commercial and Spring streets.

Laurens Memorial Day Parade. 9:30 a.m. Active and retired military march with members of the Laurens American Legion. Kick off from Laurens Town Hall, Brook Street, Laurens.

Oneonta Vets Club. 11 a.m. Memorial Day Service. Turn to the calendar on page 12 for additional events and information.

Local Vets Show Gratitude for Help from One of Their Own

By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN

Floyd Bourne, commander of VFW Post 7128, describes Jamie Carkees as “an angel.”

First Vice Commander David Turner says “the breadth of her assistance has been phenomenal.”

Her good works were officially recognized on Thursday, May 9 when Carkees was presented with an Appreciation Award by VFW members for “meritorious and distinguished service in furthering the aims and ideals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.”

Carkees has been a veteran services

Otsego Abroad Peggy and Bob’s Himalayan Trek

By ROBERT POULSON COOPERSTOWN

y wife, Peggy, and I have been hanging out together for more than 60 years. In that time, we’ve done many bold and exciting things, but none more bold or exciting than the recent trek we took in the Himalaya Mountains in Nepal. No, we didn’t climb Everest, but we took what was billed as an easy trek from the little village of Kande in central Nepal up to Australian Base Camp in the Annapurna Range of the Himalayas, at an elevation of about 6,900 feet. Kande itself is about 4,500 feet above sea level, so our trek was about 2,500 feet up, and I do mean up. The distance was between two to three miles, and some advanced trekkers can cover that

in under two hours. It took Peggy and me close to four hours to get to the base camp. That’s because, although we’re advanced in many things, mountain trekking is not one of them. It’s also possible that my age, 86 years old, slowed us down.

So, how did this all come about? Early in 2023, Peggy and I planned to spend Christmas with our daughter, Sharon, who resides in New Zealand. Once you’re in New Zealand from Cooperstown, New York, you’re already halfway around the world, so you might as well keep going, which we decided to do.

Candidly, I was not enthusiastic about the trip and early last summer I indicated to Peggy my reservations and, to my surprise and distress, she started to tear up, saying,

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officer here in Otsego County since May of 2022. A former veteran herself, she is an alumna of Cooperstown Central School.

“I graduated from Cooperstown in 2002, but I enlisted in the Army in 2001 in what is called the Delayed Entry Program,” Carkees recalled. “In August of 2002, I went to basic training. I knew I wanted to be in the military since I was a freshman in high school.

Carkees served both on active duty and in the Army reserves until 2012.

“I started off as a military police officer and eventually transitioned to human resources. Since I got out of

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Photo provided

Octogenarians Peggy and Bob Poulson enjoyed their recent trek to Nepal’s Australian Base Camp despite the many challenges.

6

Photo provided

Dr. Joon Shim congratulates Otsego County Veteran Services Officer Jamie Carkees on her

recent award for assistance to veterans in navigating the VA system.

Farm Gone Bad: Four Arrested in New Berlin Animal Cruelty Case

OTSEGO COUNTY

On April 26, more than two dozen deceased animals were located at a farm on Clark Lane and Pig Farm Lane in New Berlin, following the execution of a search warrant.

Another 107 neglected animals were removed from the property that day, including swine, cattle, sheep, various equines, dogs and cats. The investigation was led by New York State Trooper Karley Davenport, of Troop C, based in Richfield Springs.

Approximately 40 law enforcement officials from Otsego and Chenango counties, including New York State Department of Environmental Conservation officers, were on-site to assess the animals’ health status and living conditions, with guidance from two local veterinarians.

They were joined by more than 30 staff members and volunteers from the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, who assisted in cataloging the animals and transported them to safe harbor, and by members of other animal care organizations throughout the region.

The animals are all now in the custody of the SQSPCA, and are being housed at various sites until further notice.

New York State Police and the SQSPCA held a joint press conference on Tuesday, May 21 at the

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shelter regarding the case, during which Captain Marc Barbera referred to the case as a “farm gone bad.”

“This is the worst animal cruelty case I’ve ever seen,” Barbera said. “We needed to control the situation. We didn’t want animals from the wild to come on the property and feed off of these stricken animals. We also found a graveyard of cow bones scattered throughout [the property].”

meanors as per New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets law:

• Dominick E. Brown, age 44, nine counts of the class “E” felony of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and 95 counts of the misdemeanor of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

• Jane M. Richards, age 74, nine counts of the class “E” felony of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and 87 counts of the misdemeanor of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

• Helen F. Goude, age 56, two counts of the class “E” felony of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and three counts of the misdemeanor of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

• Katheriena M. Goude, age 60, two counts of the class “E” felony of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and three counts of the misdemeanor of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

All four were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear in the New Berlin Town Court on Wednesday, May 22.

“This case was brought to me exactly one week prior to the State Police seizure. I was presented with photos of deceased animals, and animals who appeared to be without food or access to water and on the brink of death. We immediately jumped into action and contacted our animal cruelty rescue and response network,” said Haynes.

“Many of us who helped during this rescue own or work on farms, or know local farmers,” said SQSPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes. “We recognize the importance of…farmers in our community, but regardless of the purpose of an animal, whether it is a personal pet or for production, there are minimum basic requirements that [must] be legally met. Animals need access to food and water and appropriate shelter.”

Four people were arrested on May 16 in connection with the April search and seizure.

Each has been charged with felonies and misde-

“I want to thank Trooper Karley Davenport and Captain Marc Barbera for their leadership on this case,” Haynes continued. “They have taken it seriously since the first call I made and worked with us side-by-side to make sure we had everything we needed. Had they not acted as quickly as they did, we would have found more animals who had suffered and died in pain.”

Partnership To Improve Emergency Transport

LNetwork President and Chief Executive

Staci Thompson announced that they have agreed

improve access to essential healthcare for Otsego County residents.

According to County Administrator Steve Wilson, while the agreement is for 90 days, both parties will be working to develop a long-term plan. The shared goal of both Bassett and county officials is to streamline the way patients get needed ambulance transportation.

“The Board [of Representatives] authorized this interim agreement at their May meeting after a year-anda-half-long negotiation

with Bassett and analysis of emergency services and hospital operation systems,” said Frazier.

According to the announcement, 911 patients transported with the county service and volunteer squads often go to the nearest hospital and sometimes need to be transferred to other medical facilities to get the specialized care they need.

This agreement provides reimbursement to Otsego County to help ensure those interfacility transfers occur in

Continued on page 9

“Locals

Photo by Jill Basile

More than

neglected animals, including the pigs shown above, were removed from a New Berlin farm on April 26. OTSEGO

The Wait Is Over for CFD as New Fire Truck Pulls Into Town

By CASPAR EWIG COOPERSTOWN

The Cooperstown Fire Department’s quest to replace an outdated aerial ladder fire truck entered its final phase with the arrival of the new unit at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 21.

The workhorse that is presently part of the CFD fire brigade was purchased in 1995, and although it has only travelled some 10,000 road miles, the fire truck has performed many hours of duty over its 29 years of service. Repairs are increasingly necessary, and the parts needed for those repairs are becoming harder and harder to find. In fact, last year the aerial ladder truck was out of action for six weeks as CFD officials worked to obtain the parts necessary to repair a leaky hydraulic pump used to maneuver the ladder. It was high time for retirement.

During the search for parts to make that repair, the fire department received a serendipitous phone call from Rob Lewis, apparatus sales facility manager for Firematic Supply Company, He advised CFD officials that Pearce Manufacturing Inc. had a stock prototype of a Pearce Enforcer MidMount Aerial Tower Unit in production and available for sale. The sticking point, however, was that Cooperstown had to make an immediate decision to purchase the unit. Otherwise, it would be sold to another department equally anxious to replace outdated equipment.

Many fire companies, according to Lewis, had purchased equipment from funds made available after 9/11 and these units, like Cooperstown’s, are now due for replacement. Thus, while actual construction of this unit took just short of a year, under normal circumstances it was not unusual for Pearce to have

60-70 stock units in various stages of production. The increased demand and other factors, however, have greatly reduced that backlog. Thus, a failure to accept the offer would have resulted in the fire department having to wait three years if it wanted a truck built to order.

CFD Chief Michael Molloy immediately went about seeking to raise the just over $2 million needed to purchase and outfit the new unit for service. The original truck had been purchased and donated by The Clark Foundation, and so Molloy made a request to Jane Clark for support and she agreed to arrange for a contribution of $1.5 million toward the purchase price.

Simultaneously, the chief approached Village of Cooperstown officials for funds to cover the purchase price gap.

“The problem was,” recounted Mayor Ellen

by Caspar Ewig

Tillapaugh, “that the request came in June of last year and the annual village budget had already been finalized in May. So we had to scramble to find $500,000.00. In addition, because of the deadline, the Board of Trustees had to schedule an emergency meeting to approve the purchase.”

In the end, by tapping into the contingency fund, the annual Fire Department Maintenance Fund and monies left over from a grant received from the American Recovery Plan Act—as well as a sizable contribution from the fire department itself—the village was able to gather sufficient funds to cover the purchase price.

On June 8, 2023, the Board of Trustees convened and approved the purchase.

“During construction,” Chief Molloy recounted, “we were able to see pictures of our truck in production that were posted on the Firematic website. Now we can see the actual unit.”

But delivery does not equate to serviceability. First, members of the department will need to acquaint themselves with the unit. For that purpose, Pearce will make a trainer available over the next two weeks, and by the first of June, the fire truck will be fully functional.

In addition to the Pearce Enforcer containing new and updated equipment, it represents a quantum leap in performance. For example, where previously it would have taken almost 10 minutes to set up the ladder before it could be hoisted, the new unit will complete that process in 40 seconds.

“The new unit will be a welcome addition to the rescue truck, the tanker and pumper, and other units that make up the Cooperstown fire brigade,” Captain Joel Bostwick noted.

A formal commissioning ceremony is scheduled for June 21.

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Photo

The Cooperstown Fire Department’s new Pearce Enforcer Mid-Mount Aerial Tower Unit arrived on Monday, May 21.

HOMETOWN Views

EDITORIAL

Rooting for the Farmers

One of the most promising and beneficial trends of our present-day life is the rapid growth and development around the country and the world, of farmers’ markets, a welcome addition to any city or village. Appearing on any day, for the most part on Saturdays but during the week as well, and centered, also for the most part, in the middle of village and city squares, they begin at the break of day, filled to the brim with seasonal, organic, local, and humanely-raised food brought directly from nearby farms to the metropolis and sprawled across tables in tempting displays, waiting to be taken home and prepared for some sumptuous dining.

Although farmers’ markets have always been the usual way of buying and selling rural products in the Western world, with the advent of supermarkets, farmers’ markets rapidly disappeared in many nations in the early and mid19th century. In Europe, France and Italy, two countries which place a high priority on food origin and regional specialization, managed to retain their farmers’ markets and their promotion of fresh, locally grown foods. Toward the end of the 19th century. farmers’ markets reappeared: in 1997 a farmers’ market was established in the United Kingdom, in part to help the country’s struggling farmers, in part to offset its anti-French sentiment, and also to solve rising questions of food safety, nutrition, and general health. The renaissance in the United States began earlier: In 1994, there were 1,755 markets; a decade ago there were more than 8,000. Now there are superb farmers’ markets all over the world: Barcelona, London, Venice, Rotterdam, Bangkok, Stockholm, Singapore, Nice, Seattle, New York, Santa Fe, Santa Monica, Chicago, Oneonta, Richfield Springs, Morris and Cooperstown, to name just a few places. In fact, New York State now has in excess of 400 markets, 250 farm stands and 10 mobile markets.

Not only are these colorful and noisy markets a pleasure to visit, they also are a cultural staple, providing insight into the nature of the communities they serve, linking rural and urban populations, generating traffic for local businesses, bringing attention to activities in the surrounding area, and providing a meeting place for neighbors, kids, dogs, and families. They are also a source for a growing variety of fresh, seasonal and healthy foods. Lastly, as the process of production is more concise, there is less distance for produce to travel, resulting in fewer transportation costs and less pollution and food storage concerns. Not surprisingly, the prices at the farmers’ market are generally lower than those of supermarkets as well.

The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market was founded by Otsego 2000 in 1991 to support our local farmers and artisans, bring people together, and give more life to Main Street. There are today 30 growers and a substantial number of artisans who offer their wares over two days of the market, and 30,000 visitors every year—a highly commendable feat.

Happy Memorial Day to one and all. Do not forget to cheer on the paddlers in the General Clinton Regatta, to root for the players in the East-West Classic in Doubleday Field, to take a look at Hank Aaron on his new perch, and to find out how to be a safer boat person. And don’t forget to spend some time at the farmers’ market in your community.

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.

Bridges, Hostels and Other Fears

Vancouver. Back in 1975, the biggest city in which I had ever spent a week: 1,100,000 people. I had visited New York City, but my partner had never even been to a city with more than 700,000. A fearful adventure?

From center city, we figured out the buses to our youth hostel in a far suburb. Challenging, but nothing compared to the next day. On $1.00 a day, we couldn’t afford to take buses or trains. Instead, we traveled “Shank’s mare,” armed with maps and a plan for touring the city.

Vancouver is surrounded by water. Linked by bridges. And we had to cross one of those bridges to get into the city center. All my life, I had been terrified of heights. Even stepladders made me queasy. Gusting winds howled and rocked this bridge—1.14 miles long and 400 feet above the sound. With a three-foot railing to keep pedestrians from falling off. I swallowed my terror. Gripped Peter’s hand. My plan to keep my panic in check was to rely on him. We held each other’s hands and marched forward. As we reached the point of no return, Peter clenched my hand so tightly I thought he would break my bones. Worse than the pain—he said the bridge was moving. He predicted our nosedive. Our plunge into the sound. Scared? I had thought I was terrified. He was more petrified. As tractor trailers tore past us at 70 miles per hour, Peter wanted to end his suffering by vaulting over that low railing.

Fear? Somehow we made it across, collapsed, and tried to keep our knees from banging together. Our whole stay meant a lot of bridge crossings. At our first landing in North America and we already had busted our budget. We took buses to and from the youth hostel. And then a big bus—we decided to try out Greyhound to Seattle. At least we wouldn’t have to cross bridges over terrifying heights, such as the Columbia River, on a motorcycle.

THE PARTIAL ObSERvER

We had thought a motorcycle would be a cheap way to cross the country—with our tent and our worldly possessions strapped on.

After our first bridge crossings together, we decided to bust our budget and ride Greyhound. Instantly we learned inter-city bus terminals were in the seediest, scariest neighborhoods of cities. Boarding the bus, with its tinted windows, felt like crawling into a black tunnel. With our first breaths, the revolting toilet smells made worse by nauseating disinfectants smacked us. Climbing out in Seattle, we waded through the street people—the drunk, addicted, homeless, ladies of the night. From there, we went to the nearby Y. So scary we slept in our clothes. Money tucked in our underwear. Our backpacks served as pillows. Wished we had disinfectant to wipe out the smell of those incontinent, sick drunks who had slept there before. Within a few hours, we wanted countryside. Longed for those safe New Zealand cities.

But fortunately we found out you could buy a car cheap on the West Coast, cross the Mississippi and sell it for a lot more. After a couple of days pounding the streets, we found a bargain car. A VW square-back—a kind of station wagon with the engine in the back and real good on gas. Its virtues mounted up. The back seats went down. It could serve as a hotel room. Cheaper, cleaner and safer than those hostels where we had dossed in before.

One fear which had sorta been faced— heights. We conquered those bridges hundreds of feet above rivers and seas. With Greyhound buses.

Erna Morgan McReynolds, raised in Gilbertsville, is retired managing director/ financial adviser at Morgan Stanley’s Oneonta office, and an inductee in the “Barron’s” magazine National Adviser Hall of Fame. She and her husband, author Tom Morgan, live in Franklin.

Food Insecurity for Children Rising

Feeding America released data on May 15 showing that the overall food insecurity rate in Otsego County has risen from 8.5 percent in 2021 to 11.4 percent in 2022 and, most troubling, childhood hunger is now at 14.7 percent. This parallels the increased need for services experienced by the Cooperstown Food Pantry and the further anticipated increase when schools close for the summer.

When school closes, the Cooperstown Food Pantry School Backpack Program—which sends food home with kids for the weekend— stops and children lose access to those meals, as well as to school provided breakfasts and lunches. The food pantry tries to address this need via a children’s supplemental box program over the summer, packaging three meals a day for four weekends, but it does not have the same reach.

lead fulfilling lives for themselves and in our community.

This area is in particular need, as there are many who are working two jobs, have children at home and are just barely making ends meet. All it takes is one missed paycheck or one car breakdown before they have to decide if they can afford food for the week. These families are identified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families, who have income levels just over the federal poverty definition, or $26,000.00 for a family of four. Currently, the Cooperstown Food Pantry serves, on average, 650 people, or 191 households each month.

ALICE data for Otsego County shows that 35 percent of the population falls in the ALICE category, with 12 percent of the population below the poverty level. This totals 47 percent of the Otsego County population in need of support.

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

H o metown oneon t a 2008 - 2024 16th anniversary & The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.

Publisher / Advertising Manager

Tara Barnwell

Sales Consultant: Randy Christian

General Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs

Office Manager: Larissa Ryan

Interns: Emily Hilbert and Arya Patel

Columnists and Contributing Writers

Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Karolina Hopper, Ian Kenyon, Wriley Nelson, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin

Web Architect

Xander Moffat Historian Tom Heitz/Sharon Stuart Legal Counsel Jill Ann Poulson

Editorial Board

Tara Barnwell, Faith Gay, Michael Moffat, Elinor Vincent, Darla M. Youngs

MEMBER OF:

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The Otsego County Chamber

Published Thursdays by Iron String Press, Inc.

21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326

Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. Email: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc.

This is one of the reasons the Cooperstown Food Pantry has launched a spring funding initiative, to help meet the county’s increasing food insecurity in general and childhood nutritional needs in particular. The initiative is targeted at both new donors and those who have supported the pantry in the past. CFP wants to provide the good nutrition that makes our families and children healthy so they can

We ask everyone to assist in addressing this important issue. Contact the Cooperstown Food Pantry at (607) 547-8902 for more information.

Bill Waller is a resident of the Village of Cooperstown and serves on the Cooperstown Food Pantry Board of Directors.

bE AfRAID buT DO IT AnY wAY ERnA mORgAn mCREYnOLDS

bILL wALLER

HeiTz/SHARoN STUART

70 YEARs AGo

The oneonta Dairy Company observed the 50th anniversary of its founding last night with a dinner at the Rex Restaurant, attended by employees, competitors and representatives of organized farmers and organized labor. Robert F. Robischon from the NYs Department of Commerce was the major speaker. He reviewed the history of the firm which was founded by the late Earl Hall. “Through fat years and lean,” he said, “the oneonta Dairy Company succeeded in rendering a vital service to this community and made a reasonable profit for its owners. This, too, is the story of what we sometimes too glibly refer to as the American enterprise system. The company’s record for good human relationships is illustrated by the fact that Henry Francis has been with the concern for 35 years; Louis Baker, 30 years; Joseph orlando, 32 years, and others for 28, 27, and 25 years.

May 1954

50 YEARs AGo

The oneonta Common Council has again tabled a motion by Alderman George Waddington to open all meetings to the press and general public. Alderman Helen Baldo is still examining the resolution. According to Mayor James Lettis, Waddington’s motion is unnecessary. “I feel that all scheduled meetings should be opened to the press. This includes workshop sessions,” said Lettis. Waddington noted that the city spends large sums of taxpayers’ money and they should be informed about all areas of expense. Lettis explained that he can issue an executive order to open all meetings but has chosen not to do so. “The only time we need closed meetings is when we are discussing personnel problems, or a person’s financial situation,” the mayor explained.

May 1974

40 YEARs AGo

Tenants are still being sought for a single room housing project for people living on a limited income managed by the otsego Urban Rural Association (oURs), the project’s sponsor. so far, three tenants have moved into the house at 3 Grand street which eventually will become home for 11 single adults who do not wish to live alone. The project was financed with a $67,185 state grant to purchase and remodel the building up to state specifications.

May 1984

30 YEARs AGo

Police in Denver, Colorado, sunday night arrested a Morris man suspected of gunning down state police invesitigator Ricky J. Parisian, who was trying to foil a supermarket robbery at oneonta’s south side shopping mall. The suspect was identified as Colin Hyde, 23, a construction worker whose father lives on Harris Hill Road. Parisian, 34, was unarmed and off-duty when he died of a shotgun blast to the chest.

May 1994

20 YEARs AGo

Plant sale Has Deep Roots in otsego County

Cornell Cooperative Extension’s otsego Master Gardener Volunteers’ Annual Plant sale took root a quarter century ago, in May 2000, when the oMGVs offered a perennial plant sale and free pH soil testing at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market. since that first sale, the proceeds from the annual plant sale have supported oMGV efforts to provide education and outreach to the community.

Elaine Nahman, who has been an oMGV since 1994, explained that, for many years, most of the plants sold at the plant sale were perennial divisions from the oMGV’s personal gardens.

“The days before the Japanese jumping worm certainly enabled us to offer some darn nice-size divisions and a wide variety of plants,” Elaine noted.

At the time, David Cox was CCEso’s senior resource educator. He worked with the oMGVs on the annual plant sale for more than a decade. Cox explained that the oMGVs stopped selling perennial divisions to avoid spreading the invasive Japanese jumping worm.

He said, “That’s when the oMGV propaga-

By MERL REAGLE

I’d Like to Thank…

1 Comprehension

6 Fern’s reproductive body 11 Lincoln et al. 19 Type of animal ID

Ryan’s daughter 22 Plays for about 45 minutes, in lounge lingo

23 “I’d like to thank the Academy and (a 2007 film) ...”

25 “... (a 1995 film) ...”

26 He’s a shunning example

27 Pie-cooling place

28 Hetero conclusion 29 Seurat setting, La Grand ___ 32 “... (a 1955 film) ...”

Gram intro

As we speak

Soup of life 41 Irene’s Roman counterpart

“... (a 1992 film) ...”

Blacktop

Food preservative

Dye in the lab

Zodiac zoo member

Cuba’s primary cash crop

Doth speak

Bachelorhood bye-bye

“... (a 1958 film) ...”

“... (a 1986 film)

tion crews began in earnest. It became a very hands-on, teachable experience that the oMGVs would not have gotten by dividing perennials. It also allowed the oMGVs to provide unique varieties at the sale, something to set them apart from others.”

Master Gardener Kim L’Heureux leads the volunteer seed-starting efforts, which have included researching seeds for deerresistant plants and trying out varieties of plants that are not offered at many nurseries.

Kim often gets new oMGV “seed starters” started by making house calls to set up shelving to hold flats of seedlings, lights, timers and soil. The seed starters get to choose which seeds they grow, and some oMGVs make their decisions based on when specific seeds are started. Kim said, “It’s been wonderful to watch all the new seed starters develop the ability and skills to grow lots of plants. seed starting is a satisfying process, but it’s a commitment. It’s a labor of love.”

Kim noted, “It’s become a very big team effort—the seed starting and the plant sale. It couldn’t happen without everyone involved

Continued on page XX

Man in the White Suit”

Photo provided

the otsego master Gardener volunteer’s annual plant sale on saturday, may 25 will feature 175 plant varieties.

Village of Cooperstown NY Forward Project Selections Revealed

ALBANY

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a total of 28 transformational projects for the Mohawk Valley region as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Eight projects were announced

Poulsons

Continued from page 1

“I want to do this!”

That was the last time I expressed any hesitation. It was a good lesson for me, as it reminded me how much I love my wife after 58 years of marriage. After that, I reflected on how I could cancel the trip and decided it was impossible without disappointing the love of my life. So that was the end of it and off we went. I’ll add here that we had a spectacular time and I’m so glad we made the trip. She was right again.

My reservations were about making dozens of one-night stays in various cities around the world, and I expressed that to Peggy. She took it very seriously and planned the trip, accordingly, including a week in Nepal with a view toward making a climb. We chose a trek in the Annapurna Range of the Himalayan Mountains, 100 miles or so from Everest.

So, after spending a week in Japan, another in South Korea, two and a half weeks in New Zealand, a week in Australia, and a week in Sri Lanka, we arrived in Kathmandu on January 10, 2024. We were both thrilled to be in Kathmandu. Why? It’s the name. It connotes excitement and, if nothing else, our lives have been exciting. So, Kathmandu was the right place for us to visit.

We spent the day enjoying Kathmandu and acclimating to the elevation, which is about 4,300 feet. The food was very different and quite good. We had a delicious lunch in a local restaurant and a delicious candlelight dinner in a restaurant called The Third Eye. I should add that I was able to get pretty good martinis throughout Asia, even though it is not a common local drink. Asian bartenders take a lot of pride in what they do and are typically very entertaining. We saw this in Japan, Korea, Sri Lanka and now Nepal, with more to come in South Africa.

for the Village of Cooperstown, a Round 1 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award. Those projects are:

• Develop Willow Brook Residential Housing ($1,300,000.00)

• Create a Community Art Space at 53 Pioneer Street ($640,000.00)

• Improve Pedestrian Conditions on Pioneer

Alley ($530,000.00)

• Redesign/Improve Pedestrian Conditions on Hoffman Lane

($743,000.00)

• Build Sidewalks on Grove Street ($310,000.00)

• Improve Access and Circulation on Fowler Way ($625,000.00)

• Improve Wayfinding Along Upper Main Street

($52,000.00)

• Small Project Fund ($300,000.00) Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh said, “Our village is incredibly excited to move forward with all these wonderful projects selected by Governor Hochul. The mix of public, private, and arts-oriented projects will be truly transforma-

tive to our small community, which welcomes thousands of visitors each year.

“Private development of townhouse and apartment housing will benefit residents and local employers and support the village’s efforts to be recognized as a Pro Housing Community... renovation of historic 53

Pioneer will add important year-round vibrancy to our downtown. I am very appreciative of Governor Hochul and the Department of State staff who facilitated the NY Forward process and sincerely thank all the members of the Local Planning Committee and village residents for their input,” Tillapaugh said.

The next day, we took a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara on Buddha Airlines. The Kathmandu domestic airport is an experience. Crowded and a bit disorganized, if not chaotic. Something Peggy and I are quite adept at is getting results in the face of chaos, with or without a common language. We quickly learned that our flight was delayed for at least six hours. However, we also discovered, with the help of three very accommodating airport employees, that the previous flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara had likewise been delayed for six hours and was about to leave. Those three young Nepalese men were collectively able to get our flight changed to the prior flight, which was departing momentarily, and get our bags on that flight. Not an easy task. I was impressed by their dogged determination to accommodate us. Not only did they get us on the flight, but as we were boarding, one of the three came to the gate to be sure we were getting on the right flight. Nice, thoughtful people, the Nepalese. No need to discuss the safety issues of flying within Nepal except to say that several months prior, a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara crashed, killing all on board. However, the diligence of the three young men in getting us accommodated gave me a good deal of reassurance. If everybody with the airline worked that hard and smart, we were going to be fine, and the flight was uneventful. The view of the Himalayas, which seemed close enough to touch, was spectacular. The cab ride from the airport to our hotel was even more exciting than the flight.

We arrived in Pokhara early enough to get a late lunch in a local “luncheonette,” which was an adventure. I ordered noodles with beef, which was typically Asian. The menu included two types of katti rolls, one meat and one veggie, and Peggy, thinking they were small from the menu description, ordered one of each. They turned out to be foot-longs of whatever they were. She had also ordered “a side dish,” which was actually an entrée portion. We got several pounds of food and I think the total price was $7.00, including two Fanta orange sodas. Early the next morning we were picked up by our Nepalese porters and a driver. We drove

We were scheduled to begin our trek on January 12. We met with our guide and two porters who would accompany us up the mountain at our Kathmandu hotel the day we arrived. They described the trek, which didn’t sound terribly intimidating. However, in that conversation, I first sensed that Peggy might back out. She asked a lot of questions about how she could turn around and go back down if necessary. They reassured her it would be no problem and maybe they believed that. But, frankly, once you’re halfway up or so, the only way out would be a rescue helicopter. More on that later.

to Kande, a half-hour drive from Pokhara, where we would start our trek. Fortunately, we had arranged to have our porters carry pretty much everything we would need, including drinking water. I think Peggy and I carried an energy bar or two. Kande is a quaint, small town about 2,500 feet below our destination. We were immediately met by a Tibetan man who was selling various good luck charms. Now, I’m 86 years old and about to make a mountain climb in the Himalayas—why not pick up a charm or two? Nepal is a very inexpensive country and even tourist trinkets are cheap. It was easier to buy four charms than two, which I did. It’s obvious that they worked, since we did make it up and down the mountain safely.

The trek begins with a downhill walk from the center of Kande to its backstreets, where we begin our climb up a long set of stone steps for several hundred yards. Here we took our first break in the yard of a local residence, where two sixor seven-year-olds were playing cricket with a wiffle ball and a random piece of wood as their bat. They were totally unconcerned with our presence and when they did make contact with the ball, it whizzed by us on several occasions, to their chagrin, I think.

The next bit of the trail is made up of crumbling stone steps, a rocky path and smooth sand, all going up and quite steep. After climbing a thousand feet, I was breathing heavily and began worrying about Peggy. Early on in the trek, Peggy’s need for a break dictated the pace. It wasn’t too long before I would look over my shoulder and ask Peggy, “Aren’t you ready for a break?” and was much relieved when she nodded yes. We did see a number of other trekkers, some going in our direction—up—and some going down. I think we only saw one other westerner, a young woman from the UK who was an experienced trekker. She must have observed that Peggy and I were neither young nor experienced, so she stopped her fast-paced climb to give us some encouragement and climbing advice. This was not the only act of kindness we experienced on the trail. I’ve been told that in Nepalese culture, seniors are highly respected. That did not hurt us in our relationship with them.

During a short break about halfway up the trail, I was able to get a beautiful view back to Kande and realized that

we would never be able to walk back down with our now exhausted legs and lungs. Peggy was showing great bravery, but just in case, I calculated whether we could afford a rescue helicopter to get us out of this. I concluded we could and so we proceeded upward, and Peggy got stronger as we went.

As we climbed higher, the air got thinner, and we struggled to get sufficient oxygen to keep our legs moving. Our leg muscles were burning, and our lungs were bursting. I saw a side of my wife that I’m not sure I’d seen before—physical courage. I knew she was a courageous and determined person, but not that she had such physical toughness to continue what turned out to be a very, very enervating, and sometimes scary, afternoon climb. If one of us stumbled and fell, it’s not like we would fall thousands of feet down. However, the jagged and rocky terrain would take its toll in a simple fall. If you rolled back down 10 or 20 feet, which was likely, and if you hit your head on one of the many rocks, it could have a very bad and bloody outcome. Fortunately, neither of us did. But with our balance challenged due to exhaustion and oxygen deprivation, the possibility of a nasty event was with us throughout the trek. I can humbly say that bravery and fortitude kept us climbing. It was not the first time that Peggy and I have overcome a challenge with bravery and fortitude.

As we got closer to base camp, the trail leveled out and became smoother and easier for us, which was quite a relief. As we arrived at the camp, we passed a few stalls where local women were learning to weave, and several head of livestock. Cows, of a sort.

Australian Base Camp is a 25-to-30-acre grass covered plateau in the Annapurna foothills. Around its perimeter were four or five one-story buildings. Of course, for Peggy and me it was the most beautiful place we’d ever been to, since our arrival meant no more climbing. As we entered the camp, we collapsed onto a picnic table and silently smiled at one another for almost a minute and then exchanged fist bumps and a congratulatory “nice going.” We sat at that picnic table for 10 minutes to get our breath back. Our porters brought us cold sodas and snacks, which we were very grateful for. We then went into the closest building, which was the camp reception office, restaurant, and the

only heated room on the mountain. Although the temperature was close to 50 degrees during the climb, it quickly dropped as the sun went down. During the night, the temperature dropped to about 30 degrees. We sat around the woodstove for about a half-hour chatting as best we could, considering the language barrier, with our porters and the “manager” of the camp. We were also entertained by his 18-monthold granddaughter, who was in a hanging fabric crib and delighted in the attention we gave her. It was a happy time for us because of what we had accomplished, the stunning beauty we were surrounded by with the sun setting against the backdrop of the Annapurna Range, and the friendly companionship of our new Nepalese “friends.” Indeed, God was smiling on us.

We were then shown to our cabin, which had two twin beds, a bathroom with running water, and a single overhead light bulb in each room. We both laid down on our beds and relaxed for the first time that day. After a short rest, we went to the restaurant. We were the only customers and ordered pizza and two Nepalese beers. This was Peggy’s birthday dinner and, considering everything, it was one of the best birthdays that we have celebrated. Pride in an accomplishment is hardly sinful and a really good feeling. Our porters soon delivered our sleeping bags, which were very effective in keeping us warm through the chilly night in the unheated cabin. Needless to say, both Peggy and I slept well. We were up a little before 7 to see the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. It was hypnotizing and we stood in the chilly air gaping at the sunrise and the mountains for at least half an hour. We then had breakfast, settled our bill, and packed for the trip down, which was hardly a cakewalk. The risk of a fall was again the most frightening aspect of this little endeavor we had embarked upon.

Shortly before we arrived back at the trailhead, a local woman struck up a conversation with our porters. Of course, we didn’t understand anything that was said, but our porters told us later that she was interested in how old we were, and she was impressed when she heard. Maybe we don’t look as young as we think we do.

Back at the trailhead, we again met the Tibetan charm-seller, who greeted us warmly and offered his congratulations. He

said he wasn’t sure we would make it to the top. From there we returned to Pokhara for a celebratory dinner, with martinis, and a good night’s sleep. The next day we returned to Kathmandu for another two days and then on to Cape Town, South Africa.

A final word about the trek. That Himalayan trek and our stay in Nepal was a very happy time for Peggy and me. I think it enhanced the respect and affection we have for each other. During one of our post-trek dinners in Kathmandu, I blurted out to my bride, “I love you.” It was a good feeling. All because of a mountain trek. Go figure.

Plant Sale

Continued from page 5

working separately and together at the same time. We’ve learned a lot about starting seeds.” In addition to the seed-starting initiative for the plant sale, as the skills of the OMGVs have grown, their programming has expanded to seasonal seed starting and seedsaving workshops. The OMGV’s annual January Seed Swap has grown to include “saved seeds.” Kim stressed, “It’s energized a lot of different programs.”

Plant Sale Co-Chair Carol Phelps explained, “The goal of Master Gardener Volunteers is to help our community become successful gardeners. At our plant sale, we sell flower and vegetable plants that we know do well in Otsego County, and the Master Gardeners get to share our expertise and talk about gardening with shoppers. We’re proud our plant sale has developed into an event nurturing beauty and food to the community.” Cox added, “It was always rewarding to watch volunteers gain confidence while using their outreach skills and then further develop new programming ideas to benefit the residents of Otsego County.” The OMGV Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cooperative Extension, 123 Lake Street, Cooperstown. This year’s event will feature 175 varieties of plants. In addition to the Annual Plant Sale, the OMGVs offer programs and outreach activities throughout the year, respond to Helpline questions, and perform pH soil testing. The next Master Gardener training will begin this fall. Liz Callahan is the executive director of Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties.

nEws bRIEfs

Regatta Is This Weekend

OTSEGO COUNTY—The General Clinton Canoe Regatta, the world’s longest single-day flat-water canoe race and a wide variety of accompanying events, will take place from Friday to Sunday, May 24-26. Admission and parking at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge are free Friday night, when there will be a generation gap race and extensive local food, wine, and ale tastings. Saturday’s events run from 9 a.m. to at least 10 p.m. and feature sprint races, artisan and flea markets, chainsaw woodcarving, hot air balloon rides, and much more. The main race begins in Cooperstown at 6 a.m. on Sunday. There will be live music, food vendors and artisan sales throughout the weekend. For a full schedule, visit https://www.canoeregatta. org/events.php. Regatta officials recommend a number of race viewing areas, including along the Susquehanna in the Village of Cooperstown, the Crumhorn Boat Launch and near the Southside Dam in Oneonta. Visit https://www.canoeregatta. org/SpectatorGuide.php for a complete list.

Agriculture Funds Available

NEW YORK STATE—Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education announced that $5.9 million in total funding is available for three grant programs. Awards of up to $250,000.00 are available through the Professional Development Grant, Research and Education program, and Research for Novel Approaches program. Preproposals are due by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 6. There will be Q&A sessions in June and July to help applicants determine which grant program is right for their proposed projects. For more information or to register, visit https://northeast.sare. org/grants/get-a-grant/.

Museum Plant Sale Returns

COOPERSTOWN—The Farmers’ Museum will host its annual Heritage Plant Sale directly outside the museum’s main entrance from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26. Gardeners can jump-start their season with heirloom variety seedlings grown with organic soil and fertilizer. Many of the varieties on sale were propagated from well-established rootstock by Patrick MacGregor, museum manager of interpretation.

Democrats Host Candidates

MIDDLEFIELD—The Town of Middlefield Democrats hosted a meet and greet with three candidates at Templeton Hall in Cooperstown on Wednesday, May 15. Congressional candidate Josh Riley, State Assembly candidate Janet Tweed and

Kathleen I. Parsons 1949-2023

LAURENS—The celebration of life service for Kathleen I. Parsons, 75, who passed away October 30, 2023, will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 125 Main Street, Laurens, with the Rev. Paul Messner officiating. The committal service with the Nurse’s Honor Guard will follow at the Laurens Village Cemetery.

Please join the family for a barbecue to share memories and laughs, honoring and celebrating the wonderful life of Kathy, at the Laurens American Legion, 11 Main Street, Laurens, following the burial.

The family would like to encourage all to wear red, Kathy’s favorite color, and/or any brightcolored casual clothing.

Arrangements are with Oneonta’s only family-owned funeral home, Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono at 51 Dietz Street.

Michael A. Perry 1954-2024

ONEONTA— Michael A Perry, 69, of Oneonta, New York, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May

State Senate Candidate Michele Frazier addressed an audience of roughly 50 people and answered questions about local issues. Otsego County Democratic Committee Chair Caitlin Ogden and Jon Lipe from the state party also spoke.

Master Gardener To Speak

RICHFIELD SPRINGS—Carla Hegeman Crim, resource educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension in Delaware County and head of the Master Gardener volunteer program, will address the Garden Club of Richfield Springs at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 20. She holds a PhD in plant physiology from Virginia Tech, completed four years of postdoctoral research at Cornell and has been gardening for more than two decades. Crim will discuss Birdsong Farm Community Garden. The talk is free and open to the public and will be held in the Memorial Room of the Richfield Library.

HHRMC Announces Raffle

ONEONTA—Hudson Highlands Retread Motorcycle Club will host its annual basket raffle to support nonprofit organizations at Southside Mall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 15. It will feature a wide variety of prizes and will benefit Helios Care. Participants do not need to be present to win.

Early Voting Info Released

OTSEGO COUNTY—Early voting for the June Democratic and Republican primaries will be held at the Otsego Town Building, 811 County Highway 26 in Fly Creek, from Saturday, June 15 through Sunday, June 23. The polls will be open from noon to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all other days. Democrats in the towns of Cherry Valley, Decatur, Maryland, Middlefield, Otsego, Roseboom, Springfield, Westford and Worcester have a primary for the 102nd State Assembly district. Republicans in the Town of Richfield have a primary for an unexpired council member seat.

‘Dine

Out for a Cause’ Grows

ONEONTA—“Dine Out for a Cause,” a community fundraiser to support Helios Care, will expand with the addition of two new participating businesses in June. This popular program allows local restaurants to set aside a fundraising day and donate a portion of that day’s proceeds to Helios. The Gatehouse Coffee Shop in Morris will participate on Thursday, June 6, followed by Sal’s New Classic Pizzeria in Oneonta on Tuesday, June 18.

OBITUARIES

For more information, or a complete list of participating restaurants, visit https://www.helioscare. org/events/.

Inclusive Businesses Lauded

ONEONTA—Five local businesses were recognized for their dedication to diversity and inclusion at Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta’s second annual Oneonta Inclusive Business Award Ceremony on Tuesday, May 7. Nominations were solicited from the campus communities of both schools. This year’s winners included Bearded Dragon Games, Brave Maidens, Champs Barbershop, M.E.B. Records and United Food Market.

‘Talking Opera’ Continues

OTSEGO COUNTY—The Guild of the Glimmerglass Festival will continue its “Talking Opera” programs, featuring presentations by Glimmerglass artists and production workers, throughout the summer. General and Artistic Director Rob Ainsley’s overview of the five 2024 mainstage productions was recorded in February and is still available for viewing at https://www. glimmerglassguild.org/.

Music Director Joseph Colaneri will present a program on “The Pirates of Penzance” at Fenimore Art Museum on Friday, June 7, followed by a discussion of “Pagliacci” on Friday, June 28. Three additional “Talking Opera” programs will be held at the First Baptist Church, 21 Elm Street in Cooperstown. Director Mo Zhou and Choreographer Eric Sean Fogel will discuss “La Calisto” on Thursday, June 13, followed by a program on “Elizabeth Cree” by Conductor Kelly Kuo and Director Alison Moritz on Thursday, June 20.

Director Joshua Horowitz and Costume Designer Erik Teage will speak about their world premiere of the youth opera “Rumpelstiltskin and the Unlovable Children” on Tuesday, July 30. All Talking Opera programs will be recorded and posted on the Guild website. Refreshments will be served.

Camp Registration Opens

ONEONTA—Hartwick College will once again offer a summer environmental education day camp for 6- to 10-year-olds at the Pine Lake Environmental Campus. The four-day camp will focus on nature-based educational and art activities. It will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday, July 29 to Thursday, August 1, and costs $65.00 per day or $250.00 for the week. For more information or to register, visit http://hartwick.meritpages.com/news/ hartwick-college-announces-summer-camp/

16, 2024.

Michael was born on December 16, 1954 to Eleanor and Lawrence Perry in Walton, New York. Michael graduated from Walton High School in 1973 and went on to earn a degree in education at SUNY Oneonta. He spent the majority of his career working in human services.

He was an avid cyclist, biking solo from New York to California in 1987, and the entire perimeter of the U.S. with his wife, Sara, in 1991. He was a racket sport enthusiast, spending his summers on the tennis and pickleball courts and winters on the racquetball court. He was a passionate musician, lover of the arts, theater, foreign and classic films, books, and science. He loved learning, discovering new places and experiences, being in

nature, and spending time with his family.

Michael will be dearly missed by his loving family: his wife of 36 years, Sara Hanlon; daughter Tara Perry; son-in-law Sam Donato; siblings Lawrence Perry, Paul and Pat Perry, Karen Perry, Ellen and Billy Hewlett, Marianne and Jeff Johansen, Andrew and Rose Perry, and Kate and Jon Jager; in-laws Kevin Hanlon and Rebecca James,

51 Dietz Street oneonta, nY 607-432-1511 www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Diane and Penny Norris, Barbara Pappas, Pat and Al Virgo, Richard and Holly Hanlon, Kieran and Amanda Hagzan, and Paley and Alex Lampropoulos; and his many loving nieces and nephews.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Eleanor and Lawrence Perry, his brothers, Tommy and Steven Perry, and his parents inlaw, Patricia and James Hagzan.

Michael’s life will be celebrated in the same way he lived—with love, laughter and music. The celebration of life will be held at a later date. Michael and his family are eternally grateful to the many loving friends who supported him and his family throughout life and this past year. If desired, contributions can be made to the St. Mary’s Food Pantry in Oneonta

or donations to support the cure for cancer.

Please visit www. grummonsfuneralhome.

com for details about the celebration of life or to leave a memory for the family.

Photo provided MICHAEL A. PERRY

Carkees

Continued from page 1

Army, I have worked in the community to help others,” Carkees said.

“Prior to taking this job, I worked at Bassett Hospital for seven years as a care coordinator in the Case Management department.

“I have always had a compassion to help others. When this position as a veteran services officer became open, I felt compelled to help other veterans because veterans hold a special place in my life.”

Carkees said the goal of the county’s Veterans’ Service Agency is to help veterans who are in need or who have been referred to them, so that they are not overwhelmed with the processes and the paperwork requirements

needed to be successful with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and New York State.

“As a VSO, it is our responsibility to help veterans navigate the VA system by filing compensation and pension claims, death benefits— VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and burial—for veterans and their family members, and applying for VA healthcare. I do my best to answer questions about education and other VA programs that are offered as well,” Carkees continued.

While the VA has the final say in the results or outcome of a decision, Carkees said she tries to do her best as a VSO to support the veteran.

“Personally, I try to follow up with the veterans that come to

my office as much as possible through the process. I try to keep them updated on what is needed if the VA requests additional information, as claims and pensions can take anywhere from 6-12 months or longer, start to finish, based on the VA and how far they are backlogged.

needs,” Carkees said.

Bourne visited the Iron String Press offices prior to Carkees being honored, to explain how she had assisted several VFW members over the past six months in particular and to sing her praises in general.

She served two tours in Afghanistan, from 2011-2013, operating on soldiers in the field.

“Jamie cares,” Bourne said.

According to Carkees, the office has to abide by privacy codes or a confidentiality agreement.

“Our office also assists veterans with screening, and applying for New York State benefits they may qualify for, such as tax exemptions on property, New York State Park passes and providing knowledge of other resources like HEAP, SNAP, and housing assistance.

“We work with veterans to help find employment and housing. There are many opportunities for veterans, and we do our best to fulfill their

“Dave Turner suggested that we recognize Jamie for her services, and I couldn’t have agreed more,” said Bourne.

Turner said he was only echoing the thoughts of Dr. Joon Shim, who had reached out to the VFW to suggest honoring Carkees for support provided to Shim during chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. Shim is the program director for the surgeon residency training program at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

Turner, who served in the U.S. Navy, agreed that Carkees was deserving of recognition based on what she has done for other veterans, particularly for the assistance given to Shim, who said of Carkees, “She’s a fellow veteran who is supporting other veterans.”

Both Shim and Turner have said that, for Carkees, her dedication to others is something far beyond “just a job.”

Bourne commended Carkees as well for her work to help suicidal veterans. More than 20 service people commit suicide each day on average, he explained. Most are younger and don’t feel anyone cares.

“Just like a hospital, we have our own privacy requirements. I am unable to confirm names of veterans who I have helped or the outcomes of their visits to my office. I take pride in making sure that what happens, or is discussed, in my office remains confidential. A veteran who comes to my office is free to share their own story if they wish with others. Veterans need to feel safe, knowing that what is discussed or processed through my office is not being discussed with others in the public.”

There are two VSOs in the Otsego County office—Carkees and OCVSA Director Phil Couse.

“Our office has helped veterans who are in need with referrals for mental health counseling, applying for heating assistance, food assistance, and emergency services such as homeless shelter needs. We have multiple agencies that we work with to help our veterans. Our office also has a van that transports veterans from all over Otsego County to the Albany Stratton VA four days a week, Tuesday through Friday, as long as appointments are made between 9 a.m. and noon.

“Recently, our office has received the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Grant. This grant is to help with veteran outreach for Peer to Peer interaction and much more. PFC Dwyer was an Army Iraqi veteran who served as combat medic. After deployment, he returned home and suffered with post-traumatic stress disorder. Eventually, he sadly took his own life.” Veteran suicide is

Continued on page 9

something that is very personal for Carkees, because she has lost several close veterans whom she considered to be friends.

“Our office is currently working with Utica Development Center to provide outreach services to our veterans. We also work with the Vet Center and other agencies for veterans who are in need of crisis counselling. If you are a veteran and are having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Veteran Crisis Line at 1 (800) 273-8255 and press 1, or text for a confidential chat by texting 838255.

Signs of suicide risk

include thinking of hurting yourself, looking for ways to kill yourself, talking about selfdestruction behaviors such as drug abuse or weapons use, or talking about dying.

“As veterans in the Otsego County VSA, we want to be there to support you and your needs,” Carkees said.

“If you feel hopeless and like there is no way out, anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or you are having mood swings; if you feel like you have no reason to live, feel rage or anger; if you feel like engaging in risky activities that could cause harm to yourself; if your need for alcohol consumption or drug consumption has increased due to any of these thoughts or

behaviors; or if you have withdrawn from family and friends—our office encourages you to reach out to the Veteran Crisis Line.”

Carkees was pleased and surprised to learn she was being recognized.

“I received a call from mr. Bourne in April of this year. Yes, I was very surprised. I am honored to help veterans and I do not expect anything in return. A simple thank you goes a long way. I feel honored that I am being recognized by our community of veterans,” Carkees added.

Carkees grew up locally, here in Otsego County.

“most of my family still resides in the area, however recently my son has joined the Navy

and moved away for his own military adventures. Over time, I have made my home just outside of the Oneonta and West Laurens area,” she said.

Partners

Continued from page 2

a timely and efficient way.

Frazier said, “This agreement helps assure that no county taxpayer funds will be used. Reimbursement for the services will be largely through insurance companies and supplemented by contributions from Bassett.”

Otsego County EmS Chief Robert O’Brien said the county ambulance service routinely transfers patients between

hospitals, mostly within the Bassett Healthcare Network. This agreement, O’Brien pointed out, helps ensure a collaborative partnership to provide effective services for Bassett as well as to maintain responsive 911 service delivery in the county.

Thompson praised the agreement, saying it is part of a comprehensive strategy for helping the network improve both patient experience and access to healthcare.

“This collaborative relationship with our Otsego County partners will ensure improved access to quality emergency medical transportation services for Bassett patients,” Thompson explained.

ONEONTA O rpheus Theatre’s Starstruck Players youth troupe will present “Anastasia: the musical Youth Edition” with a cast and crew of local youth talent in June. Performances will take place at the mainstage of Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8 and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 9. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www. orpheustheatre.org/. ADDITIONAL NEWS ITEMS CAN BE FOUND EACH WEEK ONLINE AT ALLOTSEGO.COM

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

Scott Boys Farm LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on 04/18/2024.

Official Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1444 County Highway 10, Laurens, NY 13796. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

6LegalMay.30

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF ROCKY HILL HOMESTEAD & FARM LLC.

Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) on 02/23/2024.

Office Location: Otsego County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 124 Harmouth Rd., Burlington Flats, NY 13315. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

6LegalMay.30

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy (llC).

Name: B&S Farms, LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/05/2024. NY office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is 7717 State Highway 7, Maryland, NY 12116. Purpose/character of LLC: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalMay.30

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF VRH3, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 04/02/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County.

The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 31 Bloom Street, Gilbertsville, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act.

6LegalMay.23

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Sal Pal Enterprises LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/27/2024. 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 496 Eggleston Hill Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalMay.23

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Worms Waste Not, LLC

Articles of Org. filed w/ SSNY 3/13/2024

Otsego County. SSNY designated agent for process and shall mail to Worms Waste Not, LLC, 189 Main Street, STE. 500, Oneonta, NY 13820 General Purpose.

6LegalMay.23

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Bimbercurly, LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/15/2024. 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 174 Cemetery Rd. Fly Creek NY 13337. Purpose: Any lawful purpose 6LegalJun.6

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

Name:

D & S PILOT CARS LLC.

Articles of

Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8 March, 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 148 Brighton Road, Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

Name: BLUE CHIP FARM PROPERTIES LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8 March, 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 650 County Highway 27, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

HAMMERSTONE DEVELOPMENT LLC

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 22 April, 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 4886 St. Hwy. 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

D&W BUCKLEBERRY BAR LLC

Articles of Organization

LEGALS

filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 15 March, 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 775 Up County Rd., Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

D&W CREEKSIDE PROPERTIES LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 15 March, 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 775 Up County Rd., Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A Ny lIMITEd lIAbIlITy COMpANy.

NY PRECISION LINE STRIPING LLC

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 20 February, 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 761 County Highway 52, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

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

6LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

Big Lion Little Bear LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/27/2024.

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 496 Eggleston Hill Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF BUGEL ASSETS LLC.

Art of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/26/2024. Office: OTSEGO County.

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

LEO BUGEL 28 MAPLE ST, ONEONTA, NY, 13820 Any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

100 Main Street Cooperstown LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on March 29, 2024. Office Location is in Otsego County. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to P.O. Box 431, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalJun.20

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

Kelly

HromadaJohnson Counseling Services LCSW, PLLC

Arts of Org. filed 05/07/2024. Office: Otsego Co.

SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to 115 County Road 2, Mt. Upton NY 13809. Purpose: LCSW

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SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO

INDEX NO.

EF2023-187

Plaintiff

designates OTSEGO as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 20 VALE STREET, GILBERTSVILLE, NY 13776

Section: 282.06, Block: 1, Lot: 23.00

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST AB2, Plaintiff, vs.

KELLIE WALTON FKA MICHAEL WALTON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN WALTON; RAELENE WALTON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN WALTON, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated,

are unknown to plaintiff; WILLIAM STEVENS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN WALTON; JILL STEVENS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN WALTON; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY JEAN WALTON, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; HMS, INC.; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the

premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION ANd RElIEF SOUGHT

THE ObJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $100,500.00 and interest, recorded on September 12, 2011, in Instrument Number 2011-4150, of the public Records of OTSEGO County, New york., covering premises known as 20 VAlE STREET, GIlbERTSVIllE, Ny 13776. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

OTSEGO County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE yOU ARE IN dANGER OF

lOSING yOUR HOME

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

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

yOU MUST RESpONd by SERVING A COpy OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEy FOR THE plAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMpANy) ANd FIlING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: May 10th, 2024

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalJun.13

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF WSKI LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/14/24. Office Location: Otsego County. John Snurkowski is Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail copy of process to John Snurkowski 1693 CountyHighway 10, Laurens, NY 13796.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalJun.27

Legends

Continued from page 1

Pedro Sierra will also attend the Hall of Fame East-West Classic.

Nikko Smith, the award-winning singer/ songwriter and son of Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith, will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” prior to the Hall of Fame EastWest Classic, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m. following a Home Run Derby beginning at noon. Nikko Smith’s appearance will be part of a fun-filled day in Cooperstown that will include food and beverage options, music and giveaways, including a free commemorative program magazine, and a special appearance by Chicago Cubs voice Jeremiah Paprocki, the team’s first Black public address announcer, who will serve as the guest PA announcer for the game. The first 5,000 fans entering Doubleday Field will also be treated to a free bag of Cracker Jack in honor of the museum’s new “Cracker Jack at the Ballpark” exhibit.

A wide variety of food options will be available at the Hall of Fame EastWest Classic, including World Series champion mookie Wilson’s Legacy catering, which features barbeque, sausage, and chicken and will be one of several choices available, along with local favorites Brewery Ommegang, Gilligan’s Ice Cream, Sarchioto’s Concessions and Ty’s Taco-ria.

The Hall of Fame EastWest Classic uniforms will include a sleeve patch with the game logo. Game-worn player

jerseys will be auctioned off by mLB following the game, with the net proceeds being donated to the Hall of Fame to support the institution’s mission. A limited number of jerseys with patch sleeve logos will also be available for purchase through the Hall of Fame’s museum Store, with sales benefitting the Hall of Fame’s mission.

The game will be part of a weekend celebration of Black baseball history as the museum opens its new exhibit, “The Souls of the Game: Voices of Black Baseball.”

Located on the museum’s second floor in the Yawkey Gallery, “The Souls of the Game: Voices of Black Baseball” will cover stories of early Black baseball, the Negro Leagues era, the complexities of reintegration, Jackie Robinson, post-reintegration progress and retrogress, and calls for change in today’s game while celebrating the

newest superstars of the era. meaningful stories from Black baseball are also being added to other exhibits throughout the museum.

The exhibit is part of the Hall of Fame’s Black Baseball Initiative that includes additional outreach programs, educational materials and virtual programming and is made possible by the Yawkey Foundation with additional support from Bill Janetschek in honor of his siblings Robert and Ann, the Anthony A. Yoseloff Foundation and the Bisignano Family. The initiative will also enhance Black Baseball stories found throughout the museum.

“The Souls of the Game,” a title that pays tribute to W.E.B. Du Bois’ seminal 1903 book, “The Souls of Black Folk,” will explore the Black baseball experience of those men, women, and children who were and are an integral part of our National Pastime.

Subtitled “Voices of

Black Baseball,” the exhibit will highlight first-person accounts by the many individuals whose experiences shaped them, their community, baseball and America at large. Featuring historically significant artifacts, documents and photographs, and utilizing audio, video, and interactive elements, the exhibit will tell a more inclusive story of baseball, shine a light on and correct misconceptions about Black baseball.

The weekend will also include a special unveiling of a Hank Aaron statue at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.

The bronze representation of Aaron will be installed on the first floor of the museum.

Tickets for the Hall of Fame East-West Classic are on sale now at baseballhall.org/east-west or at 1 (888) 325-0470. For more information about the museum’s Black Baseball Initiative, visit baseballhall.org/BBI.

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

►Friday, May 24

GENERAL CLINTON

CANOE REGATTA Held through 5/26. Be a part of the world’s longest single-day flat water canoe race as a paddler or a spectator. 70-mile race begins at Brookwood Point on Otsego Lake, Cooperstown and continues down the Susquehanna River to General Clinton Park in Bainbridge. This event has grown to include a 5K run, shorter canoe races, carnival rides and more. Full schedule at canoeregatta.org/events.php

LECTURE 7:30 a.m.

“Inaugural David S. Svahn Humanities in Medicine Memorial Lecture.” Presented by cardiologist and storyteller Dr. Michael LaCombe. Attend in person or online via Zoom. Clark Auditorium, Bassett Medical Center, 1 Atwell Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-3456.

WORKSHOP 10 a.m. to noon. “Gravestone Workshops: Learn How to Clean and Repair.” No experience/equipment necessary. Morris Historical Society at the Harmony Cemetery, 164 Pegg Road, Morris. (607) 263-5965.

LIBRARY 1 p.m.

“Homeschool Hangout at the Library.” Join other homeschool families for stories, activities, crafts and learning. All ages welcome. Held each Friday. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

NETWORKING 5:307:30 p.m. “Networking Night at Barnyard Swing.” Friendly mini-golf competition, great conversations and valuable connections. Presented by the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce at Barnyard Swing Miniature Golf, 4604 State Highway 28, Milford. (607) 432-4500.

AUTHOR TALK 6 p.m. “Blood Sweat

Tears: The Power of Women+ On Trail.”

Presented by Bethany Adams, trailrunner/mountaineer and the first woman to achieve “100 Fastest Known Time” trail records. The Tepee, 7632 State Route 20, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3987.

FESTIVAL—6-8 p.m. “Cherry Valley Spring into Summer Festival.” Vendors, food trucks, live music and entertainment, village wide garage sales and more. Held 5/24 thru 5/27. Cherry Valley. Visit www.cherryvalley.com

LIVE MUSIC

6:30-9:30 p.m. “Off the Record.” $7 cover fee. Food menu available. Open to the public. Oneonta Vets Club, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.

THEATER 7:30 p.m.

“It Can’t Happen Here” by Sinclair Lewis. General admission, $20. Also held 5/25, with a matinee on 5/26 at 2 p.m. Presented by Bigger Dreams Productions in the Production Center of the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit biggerdreamsproductions.org

►Saturday, May 25

BIRDING 8-10 a.m.

“West Branch Preserve Bird Walk.” Spot birds on a walk through fields and forests with Charlie Scheim and Sandy Bright, of the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society. West Branch Preserve, State Highway 10, Hamden. (607) 434-4880.

BASEBALL 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. “East-West Classic: A Tribute to The Negro Leagues All-Star Game.” Featuring Hall of Famers and recently-retired Major League stars. Presented by the Baseball Hall of Fame at Doubleday Field, 1 Doubleday Court, Cooperstown. (607) 5477200.

BLOOD DRIVE

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donate for a chance to win a free

haircut coupon. Southside Mall-Oneonta YMCA, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. Visit RedCrossBlood.org

COMMUNITY 9 a.m. to noon. “Stomp Out Stigma” around addiction and mental health with Otsego County Peer Services. Featuring visiting tables with community services, a walk around Main Street, more. All ages welcome. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit facebook. com/groups/otsegops

OPENING 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local vendors, food trucks, music, more. Eastern Otsego Farmers’ Market, 8498 Route 7, Schenevus. culinaryanthropology@gmail.com.

5K RUN 9-10:30 a.m. “Andy Jones Memorial 5K.” Run to support the Milford Fire Department and raise awareness about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Wilber Park, Dave West Drive, Milford. (607) 286-9492.

GARDEN 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Otsego Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale.” Wide variety of vegetables, annual flowers, herbs and perennials known to grow well in Otsego County. Cornell Cooperative Extension Education Center, 123 Lake Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-2536 ext. 228.

EXHIBITION 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Marc Hom: ReFramed.” Featuring some of the most recognized faces from Hollywood. Viewed indoors and outdoors through 9/2. Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471400.

GARDEN 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Heritage Plant Sale.” Heirloom varieties of garden favorites. Continues 5/26. The

Farmers’ Museum, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.

REOPENING

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hyde Hall reopens at 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.

LIBRARY 10:30 a.m. “Finger Painting Day.” Artists of all ages are invited to let their imaginations run wild. No brushes needed. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.

SALON Noon to 4 p.m. Free Fairy Hair. Part of Spring into Summer Fest. Wanderlust Salon, 33 Main Street, Cherry Valley.

WRITERS GROUP

1:30-3:30 p.m. Supportive group to practice writing exercises and get feedback. Session held through May 18. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

DRUM CIRCLE—2 p.m. Muller Plaza, Oneonta.

OPEN MIC 7-9 p.m. “Coffee House.” Singers, writers, musicians and more are invited to share works. 10-20 minute slots. Light refreshments available. Free, open to public. Held each 4th Saturday. Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church, 128 Church Street, Schuyler Lake. (315) 8582523.

►Sunday, May 26

BREAKFAST

7-10 a.m. “Firemen’s Auxiliary Pancake and French Toast Breakfast.” Part of Spring into Summer Fest. Cherry Valley Firehouse, 11 Railroad Avenue, Cherry Valley.

MEMORIAL DAY

8-11 a.m. “Breakfast to Honor our Veterans.” Free to veterans. All others,

fees apply. Gilbertsville Rod & Gun Club, 158 Gun Club Road, South New Berlin. (607) 859-2393.

SPRING 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Spring Clothing Swap!” Bring lightly-used clothing and take home something new. All ages and sizes welcome. Part of the Spring into Summer Festival. The Telegraph School, 83 Alden Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3785.

RAFFLE 2 p.m., drawing at 4 p.m. “St. Thomas Catholic Church Basket Raffle.” Part of Spring into Summer Fest. The Old School, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley.

►Monday, May 27

MEMoriaL day

PARADE 9 a.m. “Gilbertsville Memorial Day Observance.” Kicks off at the Old School with the GMU marching band and proceeds up Bloom Street to Brookside Cemetery for a memorial ceremony. Finishes on Commercial and Spring streets, Gilbertsville.

EXERCISE CLASS 9-10 a.m. Exercise each Monday and Thursday. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309.

PARADE 9:30 a.m.

Laurens Memorial Day Parade. Active and retired military march with members of the Laurens American Legion. Line up at Laurens Town Hall, Brook Street, Laurens. (607) 432-6314 or e-mail yreckert@yahoo.com

PARADE 10 a.m.

Cherry Valley Memorial Day Parade. Steps off from intersection of Main and Church streets and proceeds down Alden Street for a memorial service in the Cherry Valley Cemetery. Visit www. cherryvalley.com

SENIOR WALK 10-11 a.m. Seniors walk the track and gym floor with Connections at Clark Sports Center,

124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.

SERVICE 11 a.m.

“Memorial Day Service.” Followed by veterans open house at the Oneonta Vets Club. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.

PARADE 11 a.m.

Cooperstown remembers its fallen soldiers. Parade includes the Cooperstown High School band, local fire departments, other local organizations. Followed by memorial service with keynote speaker Dr. Joon Shim, more. Kicks off from the Cooperstown Vets Club, 60 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5478282.

CHICKEN BBQ 11 a.m. to sold out. “Memorial Day Barbecue.” Includes spring raffle drawing. Fees apply. American Legion Post 616, Richfield Springs Vets Club, 13 Lake Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-9924.

CHICKEN BBQ Noon until sold out. “Vet’s Club Memorial Day Chicken BBQ.” Fees apply, takeout only. First come, first served, no pre-orders. Drive through for pickup, Enter the back alley on County Route 11, exit onto Route 205. Hartwick American Legion Post 1567, 3099 County Route 11, Hartwick. (607) 293-7511.

PARADE 1:30 p.m.; line-up at 1 p.m. Celebrate Memorial Day. Featuring local clubs, businesses, organizations and more. Includes free water and hotdogs in the park. Town of Burlington. (607) 965-8649.

FARMERS’ MARKET

4-7 p.m. Indoor Bainbridge Farmers Market. Vendors, food trucks and more. Held each Monday. Bainbridge Community Center, 7 Prospect Street, Bainbridge. (607) 6245260.

►tuESday, May 28

FUNDRAISER 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Dine Out For A Cause.” Enjoy a meal and support Helios Care programs. Reservations recommended. Social Eats Café, 546 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 267-4369.

STORYTIME 9:30 a.m. “Baby & Toddler Storytime.” Bond with baby while staff share stories, activities and play. Recommended ages: birth2. Held Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

COMMUNITY HIKE 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at Hunts Pond State Park, New Berlin. Contact hike leader Ruth Schaeffer at (607) 988-7036.