Hometown Oneonta 07-20-23

52 HoF Legends Coming to Town This Weekend

Fred McGriff, Scott Rolen To Be Honored as Class of 2023

The eyes of the baseball world will be focused on Cooperstown this weekend, with the legends of the game in town to see history unfold during Hall of Fame Weekend.

Fifty previously-inducted Hall of Fame members are expected to return, July 2124, to celebrate the induction of the Hall of Fame Class of 2023. As of July 10, 52 total Hall of Famers, including 2023 inductees Fred McGriff and Scott Rolen, are scheduled to be a part of Hall of Fame Weekend festivities in Cooperstown.

Fred McGriff

Five-time All-Star and 1995 World Champion McGriff earned election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, December 4 via the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee process. He was the only candidate elected from the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee Players Ballot, which was considered by a 16-member committee that held meetings in San Diego. The eight-person ballot was comprised of candidates whose primary contribution

to the game came from 1980 to the present.

McGriff played 19 seasons with the Blue Jays, Padres, Braves, Devil Rays, Cubs and Dodgers from 1986-2004, earning five AllStar Game selections at first base. He reached the 30homer mark in 10 seasons, becoming the first player in history to hit 30-or-more home runs with five different franchises. The 1994 All-Star Game MVP and one of the leaders of the 1995 Braves team that won the World Series, McGriff totaled 493 home runs and eight 100RBI campaigns, finishing in the Top 10 of his league’s Most Valuable Player Award voting six times. McGriff led his league in homers twice while compiling a .377 career on-base percentage.

Scott Rolen

Rolen, a seven-time AllStar who won eight Gold Glove Awards for fielding at third base during a 17-season career in the major leagues, was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday, January 24 in balloting by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America and verified by Ernst & Young.

Rolen, 47, batted .281 with 1,287 runs batted in, 1,211 runs and an on-base plus slugging percentage of .854 combined with the Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays and Cincinnati Reds. Numbered among his

2,077 hits were 517 doubles, 43 triples and 316 home runs. He was the National League winner of the Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Award in 1997 – a unanimous selection – with the Phillies and a member of the Cardinals’ championship club in 2006 when he hit .421 with a home run and two RBI in the World Series. He was elected in his sixth year on the ballot.

The Class of 2023 will be inducted on Sunday, July 23, with the Induction Ceremony beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET. The 2023 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will air live on MLB Network, which has televised every Induction Ceremony since its launch in 2009.

On Saturday, July 22, the Hall of Fame Awards Presentation will be held at 3 p.m. as a private event, with a simulcast at Doubleday Field. Carl

Erskine will be honored with the Buck O’Neil Lifetime Achievement Award, Cubs voice Pat Hughes will receive the Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award for major contributions to baseball broadcasting and John Lowe will receive the Baseball Writers’ Association of America’s Career Excellence Award for meritorious contributions to baseball writing.

Admission to both the July 22 Awards Presentation simulcast and the July 23 Induction Ceremony is free.

The Induction Ceremony will be held on the grounds of the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown starting at 1:30 p.m. ET on July 23, unless severe weather forces event cancellation. Lawn seating is free and the ceremony is expected to last two hours. The ceremony will be televised live on MLB Network and broadcast nationally on Sirius XM Radio.

The Awards Presentation on Saturday, July 22 will last one hour, and the simulcast is free of charge and open to the public at Doubleday Field. Later in the day, the Hall of Famers and Award winners will stage the Parade of Legends, in a ride down Main Street.

The complete schedule for Hall of Fame Weekend includes:

Friday, July 21

Ozzie Smith’s “Turn Two” museum fundraiser will be held at 8 a.m. The annual fundraiser for the museum’s

educational programs gives fans a unique opportunity to experience on-field moments and share stories with Ozzie, Hall of Fame teammates Eddie Murray, Larry Walker, and Dave Winfield. The event begins with an exclusive morning reception in the Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery, then moves to historic Doubleday Field for interactive stories, instruction and fun. To register, call (607) 547-0385.

Saturday, July 22

The Hall of Fame Awards Presentation will take place at 3 p.m. as a private event, with a simulcast at Doubleday Field.

Carl Erskine will be honored with the Buck O’Neil Lifetime Achievement Award, Cubs voice Pat Hughes will receive the Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award for major contributions to baseball broadcasting and John Lowe will receive the Baseball Writers’ Association of America’s Career Excellence Award for

meritorious contributions to baseball writing.

The Hall of Fame Parade of Legends will begin at 6 p.m. along Main Street. Hall of Fame members will participate in the parade, which will originate on Lake Street and conclude at the front steps of the museum on Main Street.

Sunday, July 23

The annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. on the grounds of the Clark Sports Center, located one mile south of the Hall of Fame. Baseball Writers’ Association of America electee Scott Rolen will be honored alongside Contemporary Baseball Player Era Committee electee Fred McGriff on stage in front of about four dozen returning Hall of Famers. Admission to the ceremony on the grounds of the sports center is free.

Monday, July 24

Fred McGriff and Scott Rolen will be featured in a Legends of the Game Roundtable program, hosted by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, at 10:30 a.m. at historic Doubleday Field as they reminisce about their careers and induction into the Hall of Fame. Tickets are currently available to participants in the Hall of Fame’s Membership Program at (607) 547-0397 and are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children. Join MLB Youth Ambassador Coach Ballgame for special “PLAY BALL” events on Friday, July 21 and Saturday, July 22 at Doubleday Field. Advance registration requested. For more information, visit baseballhall.org/events.

Returning Players

As of Tuesday, July 18, 52 Hall of Fame legends are expected to be on hand for the weekend festivities, including the members of the Class of 2023. They are:

• Jeff Bagwell

• Harold Baines

• Johnny Bench

• Craig Biggio

• Bert Blyleven

Photos by Milo Stewart Jr./National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Former first baseman Frederick Stanley McGriff (left) and former third baseman Scott Bruce Rolen will be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum on Sunday, July 23 at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown.

Governor On Hand for Doubleday Ribbon-Cutting

By WRILEY NELSON

COOPERSTOWN

Governor Kathy Hochul visited Cooperstown on Monday, July 17 to officially unveil the new renovations at historic Doubleday Field. Hochul, Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, State Senator Peter Oberacker, Assemblyman Chris Tague and Baseball Hall of Fame President Josh Rawitch spoke on the history of Doubleday, the restoration project and the continuing importance of baseball.

The speeches and ribboncutting ceremony were originally scheduled to take place at the field entrance, but air quality concerns forced the event to move to the Hall of Fame’s Grandstand Theater. Local politicians, Hall of Fame and Doubleday Field donors, and Cooperstown High School baseball and softball players attended.

Hochul arrived at the Hall of Fame around 2 p.m. and began her speech with a brief update about the statewide air quality alert. She reflected on her previous visits to Cooperstown, both as lieutenant governor and in her current position, and celebrated the positive signs of a post-COVID tourism recovery. Hochul shared her lifelong interest in baseball and said she was excited to help preserve the history of a classic American institution.

“Throwing out the first pitch at a New York/Toronto game was the most stressful moment

of my life,” she said. “I got up at 6 for weeks to practice; my family kept telling me, ‘don’t embarrass us, Mom.’”

Tillapaugh provided context for the event, giving a brief rundown of Doubleday history and the restoration project initiated in 2017. The Village of Cooperstown leased the lot from Alexander Phinney in 1919 and volunteers built the first baseball field on the site. In 1923, a special election by village taxpayers authorized the purchase of the grounds.

“The taxpayers recognized the importance of creating an official home for baseball, and they did that 16 years before the Hall of Fame opened,” Tillapaugh said. “It became the bedrock of the local tourism industry.”

A New Deal Works Progress Administration project of 1938 gave the

Wellness Committee Meets

By WRILEY NELSON ONEONTA

The Community Well-

ness Committee of the Oneonta Common Council met on Monday, July 17. Chaired by Council Member Mark Davies, the meeting included members Luke Murphy and Kaytee Lipari Shue and City Health Officer Dr. Diane Georgeson.

The committee discussed ongoing efforts to address food insecurity and set their next official meeting with local working groups for 3 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3. Davies said that the meeting should take place after the start of the school year, as Oneonta students disproportionately face food insecurity. He also said that the Committee and its associated community groups must prioritize accessibility to food sources, citing the example of a woman who was unable to reach a food pantry in winter weather. Dr. Georgeson offered to reach out to other regional cities to learn about their municipal and community-based food aid programs. The committee accepted the proposal.

Davies then reported an ongoing conversation with city employees and officials about the potential purchase of an air quality sensor for the city. He said that a simple apparatus would only cost a few hundred dollars and would allow for localized air

Mushroom Talk

Set for Saturday

HARTWICK—Kinney

Memorial Library will host a forum on mushroom foraging and growing at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 22.

Mushrooms can be grown at home or foraged safely in local forests. This program is for both experienced and novice growers and foragers.

The library is located at 3140 County Route 11 in the hamlet of Hartwick.

field a major facelift, including the construction of the grandstand, in time for the inaugural Hall of Fame festivities in May 1939.

The restoration project, largely funded by New York State grants, was initially planned to finish before the July 2020 induction of Derek

Jeter. The pandemic thwarted the induction, but the two major goals of the project— restoration of the 1939 grandstand and construction of ADA-compliant entrances— were still completed on time. Problems with soil quality under the proposed third-base line bleachers delayed that part of the project and added more than $600,000.00 to the final cost. The attractive, accessible new seating opened to the public last month.

Oberacker and Tague each gave brief remarks on the field’s critical importance to local tourism and athletics. They thanked Hochul repeatedly for her attention and investment in the long-term viability of rural upstate communities. Both legislators also called for the village and state to take aggressive steps to bring back annual Major League games at Doubleday.

“Cooperstown stands for the game. It’s about America. It’s about New York,” Tague concluded.

The job scene

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

PROECT MANAGER

Clark Companies, located in Delhi, NY has an immediate opening for a Project Manager. This position reports to the CEO and Director of Design/ Construction, responsibilities/duties include but not limited to the following areas:

Project Management

• Assisting with management of overall project budgets

• Preparation of buy-out comparisons

• Preparing subcontract documents

• Preparing purchase orders

• Formulation of project value engineering options and presentation

• Assisting with project design development

• Preparation and administration of project schedules

• Coordination and administration of communications with customers

• Preparing and processing project submittals

• Preparing and submitting monthly applications for payment

• Attending project meetings

Sales / Marketing

alerts. During the ongoing Canadian wildfire crisis, Otsego County’s air quality has been roughly estimated from measurements taken outside the area. Murphy, citing studies that recent air quality levels may be equivalent to smoking a few cigarettes per day, said that it may be worth the cost to get a more high-end sensor to provide information for residents.

Lipari Shue rounded out the meeting with a brief presentation on the community wellness model of government. She cited a University of Minnesota study defining community wellbeing in terms of connectedness, livability and equity. The committee briefly discussed ways to promote consideration of the three pillars in each governmental policy and decision.

Farmer

The Farmers’ Museum is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time year, round position. Qualified applicants will be knowledgeable in the care and feeding of museum livestock and farm animals. They will assist with maintenance, care and upkeep of barns, outbuildings, and fencing, harvesting of field demonstration plots and gardens. Knowledge of hand operated and mechanical equipment necessary. Experience working with the public to provide a pleasant informative atmosphere. Ability to lift 50 lbs. Excellent benefit package.

Applications are available online at farmersmuseum.org or email hr@fenimoreart.org

$17/hour starting wage $1500* sign-on bonus

• Assisting with the preparation of bids and estimates

• Assist with overall corporate marketing

• Project lead organization and follow up

• Attend presentation/sales/marketing meetings

• Attending code/planning/zoning meetings with and on behalf of client with municipalities

Required Qualifications:

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal Communication skills.

• Organizational, attention to detail and ability to multi-task.

• Proficient in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

• Experience w/AutoCAD or similar preferred.

• Ability to work independently, with little or no direct supervision.

• Eager and motivated in quickly learning and applying new skills and abilities.

• Application of knowledge for commonly used concepts, practices and procedures in construction field.

Experience/Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or equivalent, will consider 5 years’ experience in Construction Management/Supervisor role in lieu of.

• Commercial construction knowledge/ experience, particularly related to sitework.

Salary DOE, great benefit package includes but not limited to; health, dental, vision, 401(k), Profit Sharing, Flexible Spending, and paid time off.

To apply, submit application online at www.clarkcompanies.com, apply in person at 41155 St. Hwy 10, fax your resume to (607) 746-3107 or mail to Human Resources, P.O. Box 427, Delhi, NY 13753. Clark Companies is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. We do not sponsor employment visas.

Photo by Wriley Nelson

New York Governor Kathy Hochul speaks about the value of team sports and historic spaces at the Baseball Hall of Fame.

HOMETOWN Views

A-4 HOMETOWN ONEONTA

GUEST EDITORIaL

When the First Five Were Chosen

The abstract concept had been around for a couple years by the winter of 1936, so the public was not surprised when the official announcement came.

But when the world learned on February 2, 1936, that Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, Christy Mathewson, Babe Ruth, and Honus Wagner had been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, a new classification arose for future players, managers, umpires, and executives. And a new national dialogue—one that burns brightly today—was born.

On that day—three-and-a-half years before what was then called the National Baseball Museum opened in Cooperstown—the words “Hall of Famer” truly came to life.

The inaugural Hall of Fame election of 1936 considered players labeled as “moderns,” or candidates whose careers began after 1900. A total of 226 ballots were cast by members of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, with 170 votes needed for election. Ballots needed to be postmarked by January 25, 1936, and started trickling in via the U.S. mail. By Wednesday, January 29, all of the votes had been received, and an official Baseball Writers’ Association of America tally sheet from the Hall of Fame Library Archive lists the final total from that day.

However, while the first five electees were technically decided on that day, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum recognizes February 2, 1936 as the players’ official date of election when an Associated Press wire story was broadcast to the world via the Sunday newspapers.

The primary reaction was elation when the world did learn about the election of the first class, which seems appropriate given the high stature and accolades accumulated by each of the five players during their careers. But there was also a hint of bewilderment upon further examination of the vote totals, sparking a discussion that has been a hallmark of virtually every Hall of Fame election held over the next 80 years and counting.

“The amazement in this corner is not the ballots that these leaders received but the gap where X failed to mark the spot,” wrote columnist John Kieran in the February 4, 1936 edition of “The New York Times.” “It remains a mystery that any observer of modern diamond activities could list his version of the ten outstanding baseball figures and have Ty Cobb nowhere at all in the group. Four voters accomplished that amazing feat.”

Indeed Cobb, who held baseball’s all-time hits record for decades and still owns the highest career batting average, received 222 of the 226 votes. Meanwhile Babe Ruth, perhaps the most famous and beloved baseball player in history, fell 11 votes short of unanimity—a total that stunned those in the counting room.

“The committee was amazed,” the Associated Press reported. “Vote counting stopped momentarily for a discussion of how anyone could leave the great Ruth off the list of immortals. The same happened when Cobb missed his first vote.”

While the statistical merits of both Cobb and Ruth hold very little room for argument, some writers did make their case that the Great Bambino should have garnered the most votes.

“Cobb could hit, he could run, he could do things which no other ball player had done before him or has achieved since,” wrote columnist Dan Daniel in the February 4 edition of the “New York World-Telegram.” “But Ruth is the standout, nonetheless…Ruth made over baseball, lifted it into the big stadium era, raised the financial plane of the game attracted to baseball millions who never before had gone into ballparks. And Ruth never made a mistake on the field.”

Either way, the votes cast in 1936—or perhaps the votes not cast—ignited a decades-long debate over whether certain candidates should be unanimous choices for the Hall of Fame—something that has never happened [until Mariano Rivera became the first player to be unanimously elected in 2019]. But, as this look back through history shows, healthy argument and debate have made this one of the most relevant elections in America, ever since the very first ballots were cast.

Matt Kelly is a former communications specialist at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Reprinted with permission from the HoF archives.

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.

Former Springfield Farmer Honored at Festival

At this year’s North Carolina Blueberry Festival in Burgaw, again host to 45,000 visitors, special recognition was awarded to Harold G. Huntington—former Springfield, New York pioneer blueberry farmer— who was represented by his surviving family, Robert G., Mary H. and John F. Huntington, VIP guests of Burgaw Mayor Olivia Newsom. This recognition comes on the 100th anniversary of Huntington’s start of America’s cultivated blueberry industry in 1923.

Harold Huntington founded the cultivated blueberry business in both New Jersey and North Carolina, originating respectively in 1923 and 1928 and each now totaling more than $50 and $85 million annually. He was responsible for developing and bringing to market the original hybrid varieties of the high bush blueberry that has become a major agribusiness in North Carolina, New Jersey, Michigan and, more recently, South America. Several of his brands are still active.

Huntington divided his time between his 140-acre dairy farm in Springfield and his 1,600-acre North Carolina and New Jersey blueberry enterprises. The Springfield farm was operated for many years by his wife, Mary Helen Huntington, followed by her developing the Cooperstown area’s first motel, Deer Run, now the Malton Place Glimmerglass Opera residence facility.

Huntington’s original plant research was in New Lisbon, New Jersey, followed by Pender County, North Carolina. His development has had a significant economic impact on these areas, and over the years has helped remediate the collapse of the tobacco leaf growing industry in North Carolina. An historical excerpt from the festival’s website, http// www.ncblueberryfestival.com, recounts Mr. Huntington’s pioneering involvement in this industry’s development:

“Over seventy years of cultivating blueberries in Southeastern North Carolina: Harold Graham Huntington was born in Montclair, New Jersey in December of 1897. His father was in Dutch Guiana (now Surinam) working as a mine development engineer and couldn’t return due to the difficulties leading to the Spanish American War. Harold’s father returned later, taught physics, and was a lecturer in the New York City area. During this time, he invented a color mixing machine for use in teaching physics and continued a lifelong interest in botany, especially exploring bogs and swamps for orchids.

“Huntington attended Erasmus High School in Brooklyn, and Dartmouth College before he enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War I. He earned his wings and flew biplanes. Before the war he was involved in the farmer cadet program that enrolled young females to learn about farming. His love of farming grew from this experience.

“A breakthrough occurred when he developed a method of mass rooting of cuttings. The method used raised beds, root stimulants and tobacco cloth that covered the nursery frame. The production and sale of thousands of cuttings enabled him to save enough money to consider purchasing land south of New Jersey in order to produce a crop that ripened earlier than those in New Jersey. He and his father, Frederick Wolcott Huntington, began researching soil types and climates along the east coast. They drove a Dodge touring car (some report a Model T) south along the tidewater areas of Virginia and North Carolina. He was searching for sandy and peat soil with a pH of slight acidity and cold enough winters for the blueberry bushes to ‘rest’ and become dormant during the winter season.

a mile from the Beatty’s Bridge Road discovered a bog which later became named Shakey Bay because one could jump on one side of the 40-acre bog and another could feel the vibrations on the other side. It also looked very promising for cultivating blueberries.

“In 1927, he purchased 1,640 acres from Mr. Corbett and began the tedious task of clearing the land with mules, axes, and men. The first field that was cleared was about a 50acre plot along the road. He planted some of his rooted cuttings knowing that the first crop would require three or four years to develop. At the same time, he began rooting new cuttings across from the family home that was under construction. The sequence was clear the fields, plant bushes and then take care of living accommodations.

“During the 1930s, Huntington purchased a tractor and eventually several tractors as well as a caterpillar that was used to pull stumps and drag drainage ditches when they became clogged with brush. His first crop appeared in the early 1930s and he sold it through the Tru Blu Association in New Jersey.

“Year after year he cleared more land and planted more than 150 acres of blueberries. During pruning and spraying/ dusting seasons, more and more workers were hired. In late spring he hired pickers from the surrounding towns. At first the pickers were brought to the farm in flatbed trucks. Later, benches were installed in the trucks and in the 1950s school buses were used to transport the workers. At the peak of his New Jersey and North Carolina production, he hired more than 1,000 pickers and several dozen packers and field workers. It was during this time that Huntington took 16mm movies of both farms, fields and workers. Each picker carried a cardboard tag with string attached to wear around their neck. At first punches were used to tally the number of pounds picked. After realizing that some of the pickers would counterfeit the punches, punches with special designs were ordered. The packers were paid according to the number of pints packed. Field workers and shed managers were paid hourly wages. Before each payday, Huntington would bring tens of thousands of dollars home, place it in a metal box under a bed, and use it the next day to pay the pickers, packers, shed managers, and field workers. Coin dispensing machines were thought to be unreliable, so a large line of workers would queue to receive their pay in cash. Fortunately no robberies occurred.

“During the latter part of the 1930s, Huntington decided that irrigation would be useful during droughts and to help prevent frost damage to the early blossoms. He hired Cyrus Butler from Charlotte to engineer the pumping station and the wellhead. A Caterpillar engine was used to pump the water through six-inch mains to the fields where sprinkler heads watered the crop. In order to water all the fields, the main pipelines had to be moved and this required a crew of workers. The system produced enough water to supply the needs of a town.

H o metown oneon t a 2008 - 2022

14th anniversary & The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.

Publisher / Advertising Manager Tara Barnwell General Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs

News Editor Wriley Nelson Business Manager Larissa Ryan Advertising Sales Joel J. Plue

Columnists and Contributing Writers

Terry Berkson, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Maureen Culbert, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Ian Kenyon, Marcia Kozubek, Joel J. Plue, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, T. Stephen Wager, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin

Web Architect Ivan Potocnik

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:

National Newspaper Association, New York Press Association 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.

“The varieties of blueberries in that time needed frost and freezing time to become dormant. They interviewed locals in Southeastern North Carolina and learned that wild blueberries grew abundantly in the piney woods some miles from the Atlantic Ocean. They drove into Pender County, examined the available parcels for sale, and found that Will Corbett was selling part of the Corbett Plantation. They walked along Mary Slocum Road, which would have been one of the boundaries of the new farm, and spotted Venus fly traps and deeper into the land about

Muller Plaza Plans Outlined in Video

A vibrant downtown that attracts locals and visitors is our shared hope for Oneonta’s near and long-term future. To spur that along, we’ve made Muller Plaza our focus this summer.

I’m happy to report that, despite rainouts and closures due to smoky skies, we are seeing an organic growth in use of the space. With an increasing interest from service organizations, businesses and entertainers, it’s likely that we’ll see usage continue to increase in the 10 weeks left in our “Muller Plaza

“Canker, a virus-produced disease, plagued the crops in the 1930s and 1940s and the losses of production for several years were significant. Huntington contacted North Carolina State University to arrange experimental stations that would attempt to grow new varieties of blueberries that were disease resistant. He had experimental plots on the farm for both blueberries and grasses that were intended to be planted between rows to crowd out the local grasses that robbed the bushes of nutrients. African witch grass was one of the varieties grown. None of the grasses was found to be useful, but new varieties of blueberries were developed. The Wolcott and Murphy varieties were developed in North Carolina. The Wolcott was named after Harold’s father, the Murphy for a local blueberry farmer. These varieties as well as others saved blueberry farming in North Carolina.”

Robert (Byng) Huntington and his wife, Pat, were retired both in Cooperstown and Springfield for 20 years before moving to Prospect, Kentucky in 2015.

Reimagined” promotion.

To learn more about our plans for the space and to help advance this effort, please check out our new video, “Muller Plaza Reimagined— Summer Fun in Oneonta,” on YouTube at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=-WdfPQCEHHQ.

I have confidence that this, and those strategies to come, will succeed because we’ll take them on as a community—and as a team.

Thanks for your support!

Mark Drnek

Mayor,, City of Oneonta

Editor’s Note: Mayor Drnek is bouncing back quickly from a pulmo-

nary embolism suffered on Sunday, July 9. As of Sunday, July 16—just one week later—he was reaching out to community members and the press regarding the successful revamping of Muller Plaza.

In response to inquiries regarding his health, the mayor wrote: “This past Friday I had a series of follow up tests and scans, and the clots in my lungs are shrinking. (Exactly as one would hope.) I will be fine. My deepest thanks to all the wonderful, dedicated healthcare professionals who’ve had a hand in my diagnosis and recovery.And of course, to my wife, who wouldn’t take ‘maybe tomorrow’ for an answer.”

Photos provided

at left, Burgaw, north Carolina Mayor Olivia newson and Robert G. Huntington (front), and John F. Huntington and Mary Huntington Yeo (back) enjoy the north Carolina Blueberry Festival. at right, Harold G. Huntington in the field, circa 1940.

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

125 Years ago

The Local News—From the annual report of the state factory inspectors it is seen that otsego County has twenty factories, employing over 900 hands. Fourteen are located in oneonta, three in Unadilla and two at schenevus. In the county there are nine cigar factories, employing some 200 hands, three-fourths of whom are engaged in factories in oneonta.

No man takes more pride in the neatness of the exterior surroundings of his residence than C.e. Ford. From the vases in his well-kept front yard flowers have more than once been stolen and one recent night the plants themselves were taken. This was more than good nature could bear and Mr. Ford is anxious to pay $25 to know who did it.

July 1888

100 Years ago

The new concrete stack for the additional boilers, which are to be installed in the D. & H. power house, is practically completed and by the end of the week all blocks and tackles will be taken down and the chimney will stand overtopping the other flues of the power plants by more than 50 feet. The interior of the stack will be lined with fire brick for the first 50 feet and when the flues are led into it there will be sufficient draught created for any number of boilers that might be needed. even now with no heated vapors pouring into it a powerful draught is felt at the bottom and further up the massive pile of masonry can be heard the dull roar of the mighty draught which will draw the black smoke far into the clouds where its presence will not be a nuisance.

July 1813

80 Years ago

a recent survey by the american association for social security shows that 25 states have old-age pension laws. Unusual interest has been manifested in recent months in the protection of aged people from want. No less than ten states have passed old-age pension laws since the beginning of the year. Many of the legislatures that have not yet acted on the subject have discussed it, and some are engaged in studies that may lead to action. each state is dealing with old-age security in its own way. Various attempts have been made to secure action in Congress without success. Workers are now concentrating efforts upon the state legislatures. some measures have been defeated for fear they would encourage shiftlessness by awarding doles to people who make no effort to provide for themselves.

July 1933

60 Years ago

a tree inventory in city parks plus diagnosis and remedial action was reported to the oneonta Parks Board last night by Parks Foreman John M. House. altogether 31 elms have been or must be doomed because of the Dutch elm disease. Three large elms and eight small ones have been cut down in the last week in Neahwa Park and four others in Wilber Park plus sixteen more on Webb Island must come down soon, House reported. Four other Neahwa Park elms that are diseased may be saved through tree surgery, House noted. all of the tree cutting must be done and the trees burned before mid-august to prevent spread of the disease. a large number of trees in Neahwa Park were sprayed to protect them against the elm leaf beetle and other insects.

July 1953

50 Years ago

sept. release Planned for Updated Needs assessment

Opportunities for otsego Inc. is required by the Community services Block grant to complete a Community Needs assessment every three years. and while the last fully completed document was submitted in 2017, no one could predict that we would be knee deep in a global pandemic by 2020.

all of our plans, including being involved in the 2020 Census Complete Count initiative, were cancelled. Being ever creative, our planning and research director, Megan Martin, produced an appendix to the 2017 Community Needs assessment gathering data on the impacts of the pandemic on our community in otsego County.

We then set our sights on 2021, but the census data was slow to trickle in, so we produced a document with as much census data as was available, as well as data from federal and state resources and organizations. Now, in 2023, we are confident that we have enough census data and, with other sources, can produce a fullfledged Community Needs assessment to be published at the end of september.

We also discussed making one change of strategy, in that we will not wait until every three years to complete the Community Needs assessment, but rather update the document on an ongoing basis for the purpose of providing as much current information as possible for all sectors of the community to use as a resource. With that in mind, I thought that—over the course of the next few months—I’d write about portions of the Community Needs assessment in this column. since I’m a senior citizen myself, let’s start with the topic of aging.

on June 22, 2023, the “New York Times” posted a column titled “The U.s. Population is older Than It Has ever Been.” It says that the median age in the United states reached a record high of 38.9 in 2022 (up from 30 in 1980) according to the data released by the Census Bureau. However, for otsego County, the U.s. Census tells us the average age is 42. The Census Bureau goes on to say that the largest percentage, by population groups, is people aged 65 or over, at 21.1

MerL reagLe

graph from the 2021 oFo Community Needs assessment According to opportunity for otsego’s 2021 community needs Assessment, the number of persons in the otsego county labor force has been on a continual decline since 2014, dropping from 30,000 persons to 26,600. this is one of many data sets that will be updated in the 2023 document.

percent (the second highest age group is 16 to 24 year olds, at 16.9 percent).

aging populations can be challenging to healthcare services, housing, transportation, and the provision of assisted living and home care services. aging communities are also more vulnerable to higher costs of healthcare including healthcare premiums.

The reasons are complex, including fallout from the pandemic and a general population decline due to limited economic opportunities for younger people. However and hopefully, by recognizing and addressing the unique needs of older residents, our community can embrace the potential of its aging population and create an inclusive and thriving community for people of all ages.

In the meantime, the 2021 Community Needs assessment is available by clicking on the resources link on the opportunities for otsego, Inc. website at www.ofoinc.org.

as the song goes . . . “see You in september.”

Dan Maskin is chief executive officer of Opportunities for Otsego Inc.

Solution: “NAPA Meets Napa” (July 13)

Special Effects Artist Builds Stuff of Nightmares in E. Springfield Garage

By DARlA M. YOUNGS EAST SPRINGFIElD

True fans of the horror genre will be familiar with Troma Entertainment, lloyd Kaufman, and Rocko Zevenbergen, collectively known for such delightfully disturbing B movie cult classics as “The Toxic Avenger,” “Class of Nuke ‘Em High” and the more recent “I Need You Dead!” Here in Otsego County, a local man is leading a team of experts as they develop special effects for Zevenbergen’s latest movie in an East Springfield garage.

RJ Young graduated from Cherry ValleySpringfield High School in 2004. After living in Portland, Oregon for a few years, he returned to Otsego County in 2017. Young, who lives in Cherry Valley, owns Mountain Side Contracting and is the son of Ron and Doreen Young of East Springfield.

Young said his love for horror films began at a very young age.

“I was interested in movies, and the art of special effects, ever since I watched my first Godzilla film when I was 4 years old. I remember crying at the end of the movie when Godzilla fell to his death. My mother said after seeing that she knew I was a little different than most children my age,” Young recalled.

“As I got older, I was able to watch anything, and everything, involving monsters. My parents were not very strict when it came to me watching movies. I am thankful that I grew up in the 90s and had access to cable television. I would always stay up late to watch some kind of horror film. It didn’t matter what it was—I would watch it,” he continued. It was around the age of 10 that Young first realized people made money creating special effects and when he began to view it as a career possibility.

“I remember watching ‘An American Werewolf in london.’ Not only did it scare me, but it fascinated me how the actor was able to transform into a werewolf right in front of your eyes. I would say that was the first movie that made me realize special effects was an actual art, and that someone makes these beautiful things happen.

“Basically, it dawned on me that it was an actual job. In my eyes, Rick Baker will always be the first effects artist that really inspired me, and captivated me with special makeup effects,” he said.

Another FX artist that influenced Young a great deal is Tom Savini.

“I remember watching ‘Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter’ for the first time, and I must say that it scared the living daylights out of me. But after I watched a few more times, I was just in awe of the splatter masterpiece that was being filmed on screen,” Young elaborated. “Savini is known for his very realistic gore and blood effects. He is called the ‘King of Splatter,’ and for good reason. I guess after watching his effects, I realized that blood and gore in films is a real art form.”

Some of Young’s other go-to horror films, “just to name a few,” are John Carpenter’s “The Thing,” “The l ost Boys,” “Waxwork”, George A. Romero’s “Day Of The Dead,” and “Creepshow.”

Young, who is also an accomplished musician and film score composer, worked on his first Troma film for Kaufman in 2018, in New York City. The movie, titled “Shakespeare’s Sh*tstorm,” is a crude comedic parody of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” in which mad scientist Prospero lures pharmaceutical executives to Tromaville, New Jersey where he can begin to enact his bloody revenge.

“I learned how to make a movie and how difficult it actually is,” Young said. “It takes a lot of dedication, hard work and time.”

Young, who is largely self-taught, said he has always been into art and drawing.

“I began sculpting a few years back and really got into it,” he said.

While working with the Troma team, Young learned to cast an actor’s face and how to apply prosthetics—foam latex, silicone, clay. He described himself as a “huge fan” of Eric Fox, a contestant on the Syfy cable channel’s “Face Off” competition/elimination series for special effects makeup artists in which they create prostheses such as those found in science fiction, fantasy and horror films.

Young’s current efforts are focused on building a “diseased room” for writer/director Rocko Zevenbergen’s latest project. Titled “Flapjax,” the film is described as a “relentless dark comedy about mommy issues and pancakes” in which “an overzealous fast food manager unknowingly executes the sinter plans of an alien race by promoting a highly addictive new item: Flapjax.”

“[The room] will be about 16 feet long and we’re making it out of wood and cardboard,” he explained. “On the inside, we’re using spray foam and then we’re going to paint it, seal it with latex, and then we’re going to add some bladders in there to get some movement and some organic life to it.”

The grisly room is being built in four-foot sections. When completed and assembled, the actors will be able to crawl through it and look around,” he explained.

Young said filming of “Flapjax” will begin in August,

after casting has been completed. It has been rumored that actor Frankie Muniz of “Malcolm in the Middle” fame is currently in talks with Zevenbergen.

“We’re looking for a theater for some of the shoots,” Young added.

Cobleskill’s Park Theatre is among those being considered. Filming for “Flapjax” will also take place on a sound stage in Schenectady, in New York City and in the East Springfield garage.

In addition to movies by Kaufman and Zevenbergen, Young also worked on “Clowns in the Woods,” which was filmed in Rochester.

“I’ve mostly worked on low-budget films,” he said. “‘I Need Your Dead!’ is being released on DVD soon.”

“I really love monsters, and creature effects, but I have a soft spot for gore effects...no doubt about it,” Young continued. “They are just so fun to create and pull off. For instance—when you’re on set, and the day has been very long, and people are starting to get tired, as soon as an effect like a ‘slit throat’ has to be shot, everyone gets excited, and cannot wait to see some fake blood fly.

“It’s just a lot of fun. It’s also a lot of pressure on my end, because blood effects can be unpredictable. No matter how much you test the effect, something can always happen. The blood doesn’t come out at the right time or too much blood comes out and the take isn’t any good, so you have to stop, have the actor change his wardrobe, and start again. But when everything goes right, and the effect goes well—and everyone is cheering and clapping—it’s a very rewarding feeling, and we’re all just feeling like little kids,” he said.

“I guess that’s one of the main reasons I love doing this kind of work, because I will always maintain that feeling of being a kid, and just being excited for what I do,” reflected Young. “I will never let go of the kid inside of me, who watched his first horror film and got so excited about monsters and effects. I’m 38 years old, but I’m basically just the same old nerdy kid.”

When asked to recall his most memorable experiences in the special effects industry, Young spoke animatedly about his work on Shudder’s “The last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs.” The former host of “Joe Bob’s Drive-in Theater” on The Movie Channel and TNT’s “MonsterVision,” Briggs was hired by Shudder to host a standalone marathon of horror movies of his choosing, complete with singing, comedy, fun facts, interviews, rants, and more.

Young said he and his crew got to recreate a scene from [George A. Romero’s] “Day of the Dead” for the Joe Bob Briggs show, in which Briggs is ripped in half. He also got to play a zombie.

“Briggs is a really fun horror writer. I got called last-minute and had to find a way to make the scene work. It came out better than anticipated and Briggs was a good sport about it. I’m excited to see the premier of the show on Shudder.” laughing, Young confided that sausage casing filled with Jell-O is very convincing.

“Flapjax” is expected to be released in late spring or early summer of 2024.

Veteran’s Cross-Country Odyssey Has Important Educational Purpose

By DAN SUllIVAN RICHFIElD SPRINGS

In 1903, Horatio Nelson Jackson completed the first automobile trip ever across the United States. The journey began on May 23, and 65 days later Jackson arrived in New York City, on July 26.

The trip was remarkable, since at the time there was no highway system in the U.S.; indeed, Jackson drove many hundreds of miles on old pioneer wagon tracks like the Oregon Trail. Oh, and there weren’t any gas stations outside major coastal cities then, either. Talk about range anxiety! Cars didn’t yet have windshields, so Jackson was exposed to the elements.

Years after his feat, Jackson would rise to the

rank of colonel while serving as a medic in World War I, then go on to be a founding father of the American legion.

It is this legacy that motivates Captain Scott Montefusco, a Marine vet and retired FBI agent, to copy as closely as possible the route taken by Jackson—a route he has nearly completed, without a windshield, to boot.

On Thursday, July 13, driving his restored Korean War-era Kaiser Willys Jeep, Montefusco rolled into Richfield Springs looking for the local vets club. He soon found it, and received a warm welcome and overnight accommodations courtesy of the Hugick

Purcell Shepard Post 616 vets. By Friday morning, he was rested and ready for the next leg of the journey to Albany. Fortunately, Montefusco was able to linger in Richfield long enough to share his mission with a few vets and this reporter.

Asked why he was undertaking such a complicated and costly venture, Montefusco was eloquent in his response.

“Our organization, Gartforvets.org (the first four letters stand for “Great American Road Trip”), supports the education of

all Americans, especially young people, in the value and importance of service to our country. I stop frequently on my way, talking to school groups, firefighters and other first responders, anyone I can get to listen, about the importance of knowing our history, and supporting those who help keep us safe and free.”

Montefusco’s Jeep is itself a lesson in such history, containing mementos and messages about many aspects of America’s past.

His organization is also an official supporter of T2T. org, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

“T2T has a lofty and very worthy goal,” Montefusco

said. “We aim to provide mortgage-free housing to veterans, first responders and their families.”

T2T.org is a registered 501c3 charitable organization.

At the conclusion of his cross-country ride, Montefusco will attend two events in New York City, at McSorley’s and O’Hara’s pubs.

“These places have special significance to first responders. There are countless items of historical importance housed in both places,” he said.

T2T is sponsoring both these events.

For more information about Capt. Montefusco and his work, visit www.gartforvets.org. Montefusco can be contacted at thecaptain@ gartforvets.org.

Vêsucrê: Celebrating Success with Grant, Expo

ONEONTA

Vêsucrê, an Oneonta-based purveyor of plant-based desserts founded by Sarah Hartmann, has been awarded a $35,000.00 microenterprise grant by the City of Oneonta and recently received “Best Confectionary Product” recognition at the Empire State Entrepreneur Expo.

The microenterprise grant recognizes Vêsucrê’s growth, community dedication, and positive impact on the local economy. This support will fuel the company’s expansion and vision of crafting plant-based treats that bring joy to customers.

The Microenterprise Program is funded by the Community Development Block Grant provided by the Housing Trust Fund Corporation and administered by the New York State Office of Community Renewal.

City of Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek said of the grant, “The City of Oneonta is proud to play a supporting role to a star player...and Vêsucrê is that. We take pride in supporting Vêsucrê and their commitment to delivering exceptional plant-based desserts. Congratulations to Ms. Hartmann and team for their well-deserved grant and continued success. Their recognition at the inaugural Empire State Entrepreneur Expo as ‘Best Confectionary’ is a sweet reminder of the great things that can be accomplished by creative and dedicated local entrepreneurs.

“There is a lot of star power in our city, and we hope that Vêsucrê’s success shines that starlight for others to follow. We’re happy to help guide the way,” Drnek said.

Vêsucrê’s confectionary prowess was celebrated at the Empire State Entrepreneur

Expo in its inaugural event. Held on May 12, the expo featured 25 regional vendors showcasing more than 85 products.

Hartmann, chief executive officer of Vêsucrê, expressed her gratitude and excitement, saying, “Receiving the microenterprise grant and being honored with the ‘Best Confectionary Product’ award is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team. We are thrilled to be recognized for our commitment to crafting wholesome plant-based desserts and making a positive impact in our community.”

Hartmann is a graduate of the Oneonta High School Class of 1986. For more information about Vêsucrê, visit www.vesucre. com.

At left,

Photo provided RJ Young (foreground) has been hard at work on special effects for the upcoming horror film “Flapjax,” with help from Deana Maria, Jackie Midles, Lorian Gish and Brooks Houser.

Photo by Nancy Kenyon Captain Scott Montefusco enjoyed an overnight stop in Richfield Springs during his Great American Road Trip honoring veterans and first responders.

Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek congratulates Hartmann on her microenterprise grant award. (Photo provided)

Dreams Summer

‘Passages: Creatures & Curiosities’ Exhibit To Open at Art Garage July 20

COOPERSTOWN

Passages: Creatures & Curiosities,” the high summer show of the Art Garage season, will kick off on Thursday, July 20 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. with a reception to celebrate the art of Petey Brown, Ava Fedorov, and Helen Quinn.

All three artists have regional roots: Brown divides her time between studios in Gilbertsville and SoHo; Fedorov grew up in Schenevus and now teaches in Boston; and Quinn divides her life between Jamaica, Queens and, in the summer, Treadwell.

The show celebrates inventive quirky “passages,” whether the visual and cultural wonders Quinn and Brown experience and find inspiration from on their daily New York City subway rides—one of the miracles of modern mass transit—or the mysteries of the animal kingdom witnessed by Fedorov, imagery she further modifies in multiple dreamlike iterative passages. Quinn will also offer a series of “facepot” ceramics, clay heads as semi-functional vessels—glazed brown pots melding into creature faces and animation.

On Wednesday, July 26 at 6 p.m., Fedorov will discuss her haunting “Strange Creatures” series, the first of three free artist talks offered in conjunction with the exhibition.

Fedorov’s “Strange Creatures” began as an exploration of the strangeness of the natural world.

“The bizarre creatures that actually exist, defying fiction, truly as weird as any human imagination could devise,” she noted.

“As a journey is built of layers—of days, of miles—these images are the result of the layering of many cycles,” Fedorov explained. “They began as very basic pencil drawings of interesting animals, which were then scanned, printed, drawn on again, scanned and printed and drawn on in repetition.

“In the process, as the line of unconscious inspiration is blurred, so is the line of the drawing itself: its origin and its completion. Evolution proves to be a more powerful force than the conscious intention of the artist. As a result, this work has an organic mind of its own,” she added.

The Art Garage will also be open on Saturday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., subsequent Saturdays through September 9, and always daily with a text or call to (315) 941-9607.

AllOTSEGO.dining&entertainment

Photo provided Ava Federov, who grew up in Schenevus, will give a free artist talk about her “Strange Creatures” at the Art Garage on July 26.

FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Induction

Continued from page 1

• Wade Boggs

• George Brett

• Rod Carew

• Orlando Cepeda

• Andre Dawson

• Rollie Fingers

• Pat Gillick

• Goose Gossage

• Ken Griffey Jr.

• Rickey Henderson

• Whitey Herzog

• Trevor Hoffman

• Fergie Jenkins

• Derek Jeter

• Randy Johnson

• Chipper Jones

• Jim Kaat

• Tony La Russa

• Barry Larkin

• Greg Maddux

• Juan Marichal

• Fred McGriff

• Paul Molitor

• Jack Morris

• Eddie Murray

• Mike Mussina

• Tony Oliva

• David Ortiz

• Tony Pérez

• Tim Raines

• Jim Rice

• Cal Ripken

• Scott Rolen

• Ryne Sandberg

• John Schuerholz

• Bud Selig

• Ted Simmons

• Lee Smith

• Ozzie Smith

• Frank Thomas

• Jim Thome

• Joe Torre

• Alan Trammell

• Larry Walker

• Billy Williams

• Dave Winfield

• Robin Yount

Death notice: Robert Faller

PORT JERVIS, NY—Robert Faller, former director of sales and marketing at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, Cooperstown, and The Desmond Hotel and Conference Center, Albany, passed away on July 12, 2023. Faller, a native of Port Jervis, had been under hospice care. The obituary and funeral arrangements have not yet been released.

Funeral Home

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

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

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

LEGALS

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Domestic LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy

Name: Phoenix Herbs, LLC

Date of Formation: March 25, 2023.

County: Otsego. Secretary of State of New York designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against LLC may be served with copies then mailed to: Phoenix Herbs, LLC, 114 Morrell Rd., Worcester, NY 12197.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Dream Exotics, LLC.

Filed 6/16/23. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 389 Chestnut St, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of a Ny LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy.

Name: KING CABIN LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 12 July 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 8129 St Hwy 28, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Olivia The Creative, LLC.

Articles of organization filed with SSNY on June 28, 2023. Location: Otsego County SSNY is designated agent of the LLC upon whom process

against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 25 Woodside Avenue, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of a Ny LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy.

Name: HOTDOG VENTURES, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 16 June 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 434 Williams Road, Cooperstown, New York 13326.

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

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of WAXING GIBBOUS, LLC.

Filed 5/20/23. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Julia Hickey, 153 Irish Hollow Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.

Purpose: General. 6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy:

The name of the limited liability company is: Mooi Leven, LLC (the “Company”).

The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was December 22, 2022. The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of

any process against the Company, to Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, Attn: Christina J. Graziadei, 80 Exchange Street, Ste 700, Binghamton, NY 13901. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Empire Electrical Controls LLC.

Filed 2/6/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Joshua Cormier, 2321 State Highway 80, Burlington Flats, NY 13315.

Purpose: General. 6LegalAug.17

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of PLEASANT BROOK HOTEL LLC

Filed 6/28/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 510 State Highway 165, Roseboom, NY 13450

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalAug.17

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of ANSELMO REALTY LLC

Filed 6/28/23 Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 510 State Highway 165, Roseboom, NY 13450

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalAug.17

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of ABILENE ACRES, LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/29/23. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 633 Dimock Hollow Rd, Morris N.Y. 13808.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalAug.10

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of 45 CEDAR STREET LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/28/23.

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, c/o Michael F. Galella, 76 Hunter Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10704.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.10

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Hawkeye’s Bluff LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY)

5/4/2023. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Hawkeye’s Bluff, LLC, 50 W 85th Apt 13, New York, NY 10024

Purpose: Any Lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.10

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of BUTTERNUT VALLEY HERITAGE FARM LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/20/23. 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, 533 Dimmock Hollow Road, Morris, NY 13808.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.3

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Susquehanna Spirit LLC.

Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 6/14/23. Office location: Otsego Co.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail process to: c/o Bradley Tillbrooks, 2831 Marsala Court,

Orlando, FL 32806.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalAug.3

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Name of LLC:

Mountain Side Contracting LLC

Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Department of State: April 30, 2023 Office of the LLC: Otsego County

The New York Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. The Secretary of State may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at: Mountain Side Contracting LLC at 107 Briar Hill Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose of the LLC: Any Lawful Purpose

6LegalAug.3

LegaL nOtice articLes of orGaNiZatioN of N Smith Transport LLC

Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law

First: The name of the limited liability company is: N Smith Transport LLC

Second: The county, within this state, in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is OTSEGO. Third: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against the limited liability company may be served. Th post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon the Secretary of State by personal delivery is: NATIONAL REGISTERED AGENTS, INC., 28 LIBERTY ST., NEW YORK, NY 10005 I certify that I have read the above statements, I am authorized to sign this Articles of Organization, that the above statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and that my signature typed below constitutes

my signature. Neil Smith, ORGANIZER (signature), NEIL SMITH ORGANIZER, 1518 CO RT 20, EDMESTON, NY 13335

Filed by: NEIL SMITH, 1518 CO RT 20, EDMESTON, NY 13335

6LegalJul.27

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Weinberg Wealth LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with NYS Dept. of State (SSNY) on 06/17/2023.

Office location: Otsego County SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: 95 Pioneer St Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

6LegalJul.27

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of AZ Residential Properties LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 24, 2023.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 21 E James St, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

6LegalJul.27

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Joe’s Buds LLC.

Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 6/6/23. Office location: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail process to: 29 Miller Street, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalJul.27

LegaL nOtice Notice of formatioN of a Ny LimiteD

LiabiLity compaNy.

Name: FANCY FARM 1962 LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 13 June 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 6141 South 2175 East, Ogden, UT 84403. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJul.27

LegaL nOtice

Notice of orGaNiZatioN of 3692 couNty HiGHway 35 LLc uNDer sectioN 203 of tHe LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy Law.

1. The name of the limited liability company is 3692 County Highway 35 LLC.

2. Articles of Organization of 3692 County Highway 35 LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on June 5, 2023.

3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.

4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 215 Tuscan Road, Worcester, NY 12197.

5. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 3692 County Highway 35 LLC, 215 Tuscan Road, Worcester, NY 12197.

6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.

6LegalJul.20

Notice of orGaNiZatioN of DaNGca LLc uNDer sectioN 203 of tHe LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy Law.

1. The name of the limited liability company is Dangca LLC.

2. Articles of Organization of Dangca LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on May 26, 2023.

3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.

4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 257 Townline Road, Laurens, NY 13796.

5. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: Dangca LLC, 257 Townline Road, Laurens, NY 13796.

6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.

6LegalJul.20

LegaL nOtice

Notice of orGaNiZatioN of cLapper’s mapLe riDGe raNcH LLc uNDer sectioN 203 of tHe LimiteD LiabiLity compaNy Law.

1. The name of the limited liability company is Clapper’s Maple Ridge Ranch LLC.

2. Articles of Organization of Clapper’s Maple Ridge Ranch LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on April 10, 2023.

3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.

4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 184 Reservoir Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.

5. The Secretary of State is designated

as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: Dana Clapper, 184 Reservoir Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.

6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.

6LegalJul.20

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Culture Rally, LLC.

Articles of organization filed with SSNY on June 5, 2023.

Location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 16 Hazel St., Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalJul20

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of Kato En LLC.

Filed 1/16/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Kato Family, 266 Copes Corners Rd, South New Berlin, NY 13843. Registered Agent: Hiroaki Kato, 266 Copes Corners Rd, South New Berlin, NY 13843.

Purpose: General.

6LegalJul20

LegaL nOtice

Notice of formatioN of LimiteD LiabiLity corporatioN

Melissa Fallon-Korb LLC filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/10/23. Office location: Otsego County. NYSS is designated as agent of this LLC upon whom process may be served and SSNY will mail process to 53 Fair St, Otego NY 13825. Purpose: any lawful activity. 6LegalJul20

Photo courtesy of Detroit Free Press John Lowe will receive the Baseball Writers’ Association of America’s Career Excellence Award this weekend for meritorious contributions to baseball writing.

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

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

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home

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

Let the Games Begin!

ONEONTA—Oneonta

Mayor Mark Drnek, former mayor Kim Muller and Otsego County Chamber of Commerce President Sean lewis (above) recently took part in a ribbon cutting marking the official opening of the recently reimagined Muller Plaza. Named in honor of former mayor Muller, the plaza will host various activities throughout the summer. These events will be geared toward youth activities organized by Kayler Carpenter, pastor at First Baptist Church, Continued on page 10

NEWS BRIEFS

Compiled by Wriley Nelson

Horsford Named Director of Historic House Trust

NEW YORK CITY—Historic House Trust of New York

City named Meredith Sorin Horsford (right) as executive director on February 13. She will hold dual roles as HHT executive director and director of historic houses at the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation. Horsford has spent her career stewarding New York historic house museums, including a previous tenure as deputy director of the HHT and as executive director of Gracie Mansion Conservancy. She most recently led the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum Alliance, where she significantly expanded community engagement, fundraising and interpretation. Horsford is the daughter of Cooperstown Graduate Program Director and Distinguished Professor Dr. Gretchen Sorin. (Photo provided).

American Legion To Host Feral Cat Fundraiser

ONEONTA—Oneonta American legion Post 259 will host a craft beer tasting joint fundraiser with Friends of the Feral TNR-Otsego from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, August 5. American legion Feral Feline Fest, held at 279 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, is sponsored by Oneonta Hops Brew Club. Admission is free, and the $20.00 tasting fee includes a commemorative glass. Food will be served by Dirty Dawgz Food Cart, and there will be raffles. According to a release, the legion may book a live musical performance and hold a cornhole tournament. Friends of the Feral, founded in 2021 by Traci Dilello of laurens and Gina Colone of Oneonta, is an organization of cat lovers dedicated to controlling feral cat proliferation in Otsego County while providing a healthier environment for the animals. It has grown to include more than 200 members. FOF volunteers work with veterinary professionals to trap, spay or neuter, vaccinate and release feral cats exactly where they were caught to avoid disrupting their colonies. FOF efforts provide a safer, healthier, and more pleasant environment for cats by controlling excess population, reducing injuries due to territorial fighting and preventing urine marking. Occasionally, feral kittens are given to cat owners in Massachusetts, which has stringent health requirements for pet owners. FOF is supported by annual festivities, public donations and sales of organization logo decals. It is in the process of attaining 501c3 non-profit status. For more information, visit their Facebook page or contact friendsoftheferal@gmail.com.

Glimmerglass Festival Welcomes Utica Youth

SPRINGFIElD—The Glimmerglass Festival partnered with the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and the Oneida County Youth Bureau to host a program for underserved students from Utica community centers on Monday, July 10. Seventy-five students attended a matinee performance of leonard Bernstein’s “Candide.” Before the performance, the students attended a workshop on the inner workings of opera with Teaching Artist Pamela Simonson on Saturday, July 8. They were encouraged to explore topics in music or production that interested them and created their own stories using costumes and props. Glimmerglass A/V Coordinator Joel Morain gave a tour of the Alice Busch Opera Theater when the students arrived on Monday morning. General Director Rob Ainsley and Music Director Joseph Colaneri also addressed the group. “The key with young people is exposure to any and all positive things until they find which one is their passion,” explained Jawwaad Rasheed, chair of the Community Foundation. Rasheed has spent years coordinating Glimmerglass visits and other educational workshops for underprivileged youth. “Utica has over 47 languages in their high schools and we have people from every walk of life in our program, and this is just great exposure for these kids,” he concluded.

CV-S Booster Club Announces Golf Fundraiser

CANAJOHARIE—The third annual Patriot Open will be held at the Canajoharie Golf and Country Club on Saturday, September 16. Sign-in begins at noon and the shotgun start is at 1:30 p.m. Participants are asked to register by Friday, September 1. Registration is $100.00 per person, discounted for country club members, and includes 18 holes, a cart, buffet dinner, and beverages. There will be longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests and gift bags, as well as a $25,000.00 prize for a hole in one. Proceeds benefit the Cherry Valley-Springfield Athletics Booster Club. The Booster Club is also accepting sponsorships from businesses. For more information, contact Duane Rockwell at (518) 848-0629.

Fire Department To Host Bood Drive Next Friday

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Fire Department will host a Red Cross blood drive at the fire station, 24 Chestnut Street, from 12:30-6:30 p.m. on Friday, July 28. Call 1 (800) REDCROSS or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment.

Foothills To Host Narcan Training, Resource Fair

ONEONTA—The Narcan Initiative Team will run a resource fair at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25. Narcan is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. In its nasal spray form, it is available for free from many community organizations and pharmacies. As the U.S. continues to struggle with an opioid addiction epidemic, many health organizations strongly recommend that community members acquire and learn to administer Narcan. It is not a replacement for immediate medical attention; bystanders or loved ones witnessing a potential overdose should call 911 in addition to administering Narcan. In addition to Narcan training, the fair will feature food trucks, human services connections and raffles. For more information, contact mosenthina@otsegocounty.com.

Hyde Hall Will Host Evening of Wine, Cheese, Music

SPRINGFIElD—Hyde Hall will host an evening of period music, featuring wine and cheese, from 7-10 p.m. on Friday, July 28. “That Aged Well!” will explore the many ways music was brought into the home in the 19th century, including instruments, music boxes and early recordings. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or via the Hyde Hall website.

VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM

The Violence Intervention Program at Opportunities for Otsego offers support to victims, survivors and families impacted by violent crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, physical assault, elder abuse, stalking, hate crimes, motor vehicle assault and homicide.

The Violence Intervention Program offers assistance in accessing crime-related supports and resources.

Counseling Advocacy

JOURNaL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

SPORTS SNIPPETS

Compiled by Wriley Nelson

Oneonta Native Selected in Last Week’s MLB Draft

ONEONTa—Oneonta High School graduate and former Green Wave player Teddy McGraw was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the third round of the MLB draft on Monday, July 10. The 92nd draft pick overall, he is the eighth OHS alumnus to be selected in the draft, and the first since 2008.

McGraw recently completed his junior year at Wake Forest University in WinstonSalem, North Carolina. He was one of nine demon deacons selected in the draft. In the 2022 season, McGraw posted the team’s lowest opponent batting average of .203 in 15 appearances. He was one of the best Saturday starters in the atlantic Coast Conference, and capped his performance with 7.1 shutout innings on the road against formidable rival NC State in the season finale. He ended his short college career with a record of 52, 90 strikeouts in 89.2 innings and a 4.22 ERa away from Wake Forest, McGraw won the 2021 Cape Cod League title.

McGraw missed the entire 2023 season due to an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery just before the first game. It was his second elbow reconstruction, and required an internal brace; he missed his senior season of high school after his first time under the knife. McGraw was ranked 84th in the draft prospects this year, with MLB personnel saying he might have been a first-round pick if he had been healthy. as it was, McGraw earned a strong 55 grade on each of his three pitches, boasting a 95 mph sinking fastball, a mid-80s slider with lots of movement and an upper-80s changeup.

“When healthy, he’s got some of the best stuff in the draft, that ranks with probably anything in the top 10 to 15 picks in this country,” said Mariners director of amateur Scouting Scott Hunter. “So, with our development program and all the guys that we’ve put through our pitching program, we believe we can get him healthy, get him back on the mound and really have a steal of the draft.”

according to a release from the Oneonta Green Wave, of the american Legion district 6 U19 baseball league, McGraw was one of the most talented players in program history. He holds the fourth-lowest season ERa in district 6 history. On the offensive side, he has the ninth-highest single-season stolen base count and the seventh-highest number of runs in a season.

“The entire Green Wave family past, present and future wish Teddy congratulations on his tremendous accomplishment and look forward to following Seattle Mariners baseball for many years,” the release concluded.

Hillcrest Forfeits to Oneonta Green Wave

ONEONTa—The Oneonta Green Wave was awarded a 2-0 forfeit win over Hillcrest for a game that was scheduled to be played on Thursday, July 6. Oneonta moved to 6-8-1 for the season and 5-2-1 in district 6 league play before opening their 24th annual Green Wave Classic in Oneonta on July 7 through 9.

Retrievers Fall to Johnson City in Six Innings

JOHNSON CITy—The Otego Retrievers fell 9-6 to Johnson City in a game that was called due to darkness after six innings on Thursday, July 6. JJ Benjamin scored twice and batted in a run. He also pitched four innings and struck out two batters. Braeden Johnson and Xander Johnson each hit a double, and Shea Barber hit a triple. Xander Johnson, Benjamin, Garrett Backus and Julian Pruskowski each stole a base.

Oneonta Green Wave Goes 2-1 in 24th Classic

ONEONTa—The Oneonta Green Wave of the american Legion district 6 baseball league hosted the 24th annual Green Wave Classic on Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8. Oneonta opened on Friday night with a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Knights in a game that was called after five innings due to thunderstorms. asa dugan pitched the entire game, allowing only two hits and two walks. He struck out one batter. The Green Wave made no headway against a strong left-handed Ottawa pitcher until the bottom of the fourth inning, when adam Champlin and Britten Zeh led off with back-to-back singles. Grayson Brockington and Cam Sitts followed with RBI singles to take the lead. Oneonta took the field against the Brockville (Ontario) Bunnies at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The Green Wave rallied from an early 7-5 deficit and scored five times in the top of the sixth inning on their way to a 10-7 victory. Brady Carr hit a sacrifice fly, followed by RBI hits from Brockington and Champlin. Owen Burnsworth capped off the scoring for the morning with an RBI single. Champlin led the offense with two hits, two RBI and three runs, and pitched a scoreless sixth inning in relief. The Schenectady County Indians shut out the Green Wave 6-0 in their final game of the tournament on Saturday night. Oneonta finished the weekend 2-1, as all tournament play on Sunday was canceled due to weather. The Green Wave also picked up a 2-0 forfeit win from earlier in the season, as the Vestal team was disqualified because of improper paperwork. Oneonta moved to 9-9-1 for the season and 6-2-1 in league play.

Outlaws Fall on the Road to Saugerties Stallions

SaUGERTIES—The Oneonta Outlaws dropped a road league game against the Saugerties Stallions 7-5 on Friday, July 7. Oneonta led 5-2 going into the bottom of the fifth inning, but the Stallions scored four times on two doubles, two singles, and several wild pitches and passed balls. Christopher Baillargeon, Jarod Wade, Jack Hopko and anthony Barone each made two hits for the Outlaws. Logan Waldschmidt hit a double.

Feliz Larose and Christopher Ubner, of Fly Creek, each stole a base. anthony aleman was saddled with the loss after giving up four runs in one third of an inning.

Local sports information—scores, recaps, photographs—can now be submitted easily to Iron String Press publications at https://www.allotsego.com/sports-scores/

what’s fun in OtsegO COunty BEST BETS

The John Colonna Trio will perform on Thursday, July 20 at Marcus Villagrán’s Dunderberg Gallery, 188 Marion avenue in Gilbertsville. The trio—pianist Colonna, Kenji Tokunaga on bass and Joel Proctor on drums—has been described by doNyC. com as “a group of virtuosic musicians who channel the sound of classic jazz into modern feels like funk, rock, and gospel.” The performance begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $15.00 for seniors and students, and $10.00 for children. For more information, call (607) 783-2010 or visit www.dundergerggallery.com.

***

The Smithy will hold an opening reception for its final exhibit of the season, “Paper,” on Tuesday, July 25 from 5-7 p.m. “Paper” will be on display in The Smithy Gallery from July 25 through September 2 on the first and second floors. “Age of Anxiety” by Terry Lee Harmon Slade, a season-long exhibit, will remain on display through September 2 on the third floor.

“Paper” features artwork by both Smithy member artists and guest artists. as the title of the exhibit implies, paper will serve as the central medium to all works on display. In this exhibit, artists will display how paper can serve as a useful and diverse form of media in all aspects of creation and the pursuit of artistic expression. Guest artists include Chris duncan, Lisbeth McCoy, dori Miller, Jill Parisi, June Tyler and Phil young. age of anxiety” is an investigation of the individual who is sometimes reflective or meditative, but who often exhibits a state of angst. Poised on the top of tall ceramic columns or pedestals, each sculpture exists independently, while being part of all humanity. Each figure appears lost in thought and alone, but each one is also collectively and relentlessly staring into a future fraught with the unknown. Slade works with many different media, including found objects, wood, paper, stone, bronze and glass, and produces works ranging from small objects to large indoor and outdoor installations. His work explores the relationship between

Plaza

Continued from page 9

Oneonta, and youth services coordinator for Friends of Recovery-delaware and Otsego Counties.

“We believe one of the major reasons that our youthful citizens get in trouble with drugs is boredom, and we want to present the opportunity to get involved in activities,” said Carpenter.

“Over the long term,” drnek said, “I want to enliven the space. It’s not being used.”

as part of that long-term effort, drnek would like the plaza to host individual entertainers—such as musicians, artists, jugglers or magicians—during the fourto-five months a year when it’s warm enough.

“In short, I would like to see it as a destination for

humans and the natural world.

The Smithy galleries are located at 55 Pioneer Street. For more information, call (607) 547-9777 or visit www.smithyarts.org. ***

Iron String Press’ own Wriley Nelson is among those starring in Fenimore Art Museum’s Glimmer Globe Theatre production of William Shakespeare’s final fantastical adventure, “The Tempest.” Performances take place on Wednesday and Thursday evenings through august 10, set against the backdrop of Otsego Lake in the museum’s Lucy B. Hamilton amphitheater. In a new twist on this famous story, a motley crew of aeronauts finds their airship caught in a vicious tempest about to crash into an isolated and magical isle. Nearby, the vengeful wizard Prospero lives with his daughter, Miranda, and two servants: Caliban, a native of the island, and ariel, a spirit of the air. after Prospero reveals he and his magic were the cause of the recent shipwreck, he recounts his tragic past to Miranda, setting in motion a chain of events that will change their lives, and the futures of all who call the island home.

“The Tempest” is directed by Michael Henrici, who also stars as Caliban. Lissa Sidoli is Prospero. The production also features andie alban, Tom Russo, J Lentner, Samantha Lizak, andrew Munro, Colleen Bunn, Nelson, Peter Exton, Mark Murphy, Marisa Chism, Emily Begin, Kim Frederick, dashiell Henrici, Tessa davis and Gavin abrams.

advance tickets are available through Eventbrite.com or at the theater immediately preceding the show. The cost is $18 for adults (13-64); $16 for seniors (65+) and members; and $10 for youth (7-12). Children ages 6 and under are admitted free. (Please select the free ticket option for children six and under when using Eventbrite.) Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. an alternate indoor location is available in the event of inclement weather.

Fenimore art Museum is located at 5798 State Route 80, less than one mile from the center of Cooperstown. For more information, visit Fenimoreart.org.

entertainment and relaxation,” drnek added.

To help start that process, a Muller Plaza Taskforce is being formed. The plaza is located just off Main Street, between KeyBank and the Indian Grill.

(Photo by Caspar Ewig)

WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOU!

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

Splash and Sizzle Bash Is Planned

ONEONTa after Balloon Fest was canceled due to pilot scheduling conflicts, destination Oneonta has announced a replacement Splash and Sizzle Bash from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, august 26.

The full day of family fun, food and live entertainment will be held in Neahwa Park. It will feature bounce houses and water slides, water balloons and water guns, lawn games, local vendors, live music, face painting and more. There will also be an outdoor movie night on Friday, august 25.

destination Oneonta called for food vendors, craft and artisan vendors, local businesses, and nonprofits to sign up for table slots.

For more information, visit the destination Oneonta Facebook page or contact director@destinationoneonta.com. The organization is already planning the 2024 Balloon Fest.

►Friday, July 21

Visit allotsego.com for Hall of Fame weekend autograph signing information.

CRAFTY FRIDAY 9 a.m.

to 5 p.m. Paint a Mug. Free, all ages, while supplies last. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309.

EXHIBIT TOUR 2 p.m.

“Otsego: A Meeting Place.”

Join museum educators to learn the rich history of the Otsego region, learn about the early inhabitants and visit the reproduction Mohawk Bark House and the Seneca Long House. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. Also held 7/22. (607) 547-1400.

TRAIN RIDES 6:30 p.m.

Ride the Scenic Railway.

Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.

HOME GAME 7 p.m.

Oneonta Outlaws vs. Saugerties Stallions, featuring happy hour, 5-6 p.m. $5/ adult. Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

FIREPIT FRIDAY 7-10

p.m. Music, bonfire and some beer. Features The Old Man, performing bluegrass. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 544-1800.

CONTRADANCE 7:30

p.m. Enjoy a fun evening in Hyde Hall’s newly renovated wood barn. $10 at the door. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown, (607) 547-5098.

►Saturday, July 22

RICHFIELD SPRINGS

FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Richfield Springs Farmers Market. Local

produce, eggs, meat, flowers, plants, dairy products, honey, maple products, more. Spring Park pavilion, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-2703.

COOPERSTOWN FARM-

ERS’ MARKET 9 a.m. to

2 p.m. Fresh vegetables, local meats, hand-made crafts and more. Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101 Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8881.

PSYCHIC FAIR 9 a.m. to

3 p.m. Psychic and vendor fair. Find baked goods, door prizes and psychic readers of the best quality. Bewitch Me Joyful, 1398 East Side Road, Morris. (607) 267-0617.

CORNHOLE 11 a.m. 2nd Annual Cornhole Tournament. Support the Mount Vision Fire Department. $60/team. Registration begins at 10 a.m. 114 Field Cross Road, Mount Vision. (607) 433-0997.

OUTDOOR THEATRE 11

a.m. “Dinosaur Invasion” by Dandelion Stage. Interactive experience where children help save the world from time-traveling dinosaurs. Separate programs scheduled for children ages 3-6, and ages 7-12. Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Road, Oneonta. Presented by Oneonta World of Learning—to purchase tickets or for more information, (607) 3539503. Also held 7/23.

PERIOD FARCE Noon & 2 p.m. “A Good Night’s Rest.” Presented by The Templeton Players. Mr. Snobbington desperately needs to sleep but the neighbor is making a ruckus after being locked out. What to do but invite the neighbor in. What could possibly go wrong? The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown (607) 547-1450.

TRAIN ROBBERY Noon. Action-packed ride featuring shoot-outs, period costumes and fun for the whole family.

Tickets, $25/adult. Reserva-

tions required. CooperstownCharlotte Valley Railroad, departing from 136 County Route 166, Milford. (607) 432-2429.

TRAIN RIDES 1 p.m.

Nature discovery and appreciation on the “Mink Creek Local” over railway bridges and into the “Great Cedar Swamp.” Learn the history of the local railway built in 1868. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 7175969.

WRITERS GROUP 1:30 p.m. Join online group to work on writing prompts, share current work, and get some feedback. Presented by the Huntington Memorial Library, Oneonta. Register at hmlwriters@gmail.com

MOVIE NIGHT 6 p.m. The Richfield Springs Summer Reading Program presents “Mummies.” Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-3200.

CONCERT 7 p.m. “Spiros Soukis.” Soulful indie blues and funky grooves straight out of a New York City blues club. Music begins at 7:30. Dancing encouraged. Star Theater, 44 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643080.

►Sunday, July 23

FARMERS’ MARKET

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find local produce, arts, and crafts for sale, and get to know the local makers and farmers. Curry Park, 3898 State Highway 28, Milford.

OPEN HOUSE Noon to 4 p.m. Model aircraft aerobatics and displays. Try the RC Flight Simulator, take a test flight, more. 50/50 raffle to benefit Wounded Warrior Project. Oneonta RC Flyers, Milford ONC BOCES, 1943 County Highway 35, Milford. Visit OneontaRCFlyers.com

SUMMER SUNDAY PRESENTATION 1-3 p.m. “Center Street School” with Mark Parmerter. Free, open to the public. Bring own folding law

chair; handicap accessible. Swart-Wilcox House Museum, 24 Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. swartwilcoxhouse.wordpress. com

PADDLE & PICNIC 2-5 p.m. Join the Queer Adventure Group for a relaxing day at the beach, try out a variety of kayaks and paddleboards with the Otsego County Conservation Association. Brookwood Point, 6000 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-4488.

TRAIN RIDES 3 p.m. Sunday Rambles. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.

FUNDRAISER 6 p.m. Play

Bingo to support the Super Heroes Humane Society. Eight rounds plus raffles, with fun prizes. Entry requires $10 minimum food or beverage order. Donations appreciated. Roots Brewing Company, 175 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 349-3842.

►Monday, July 24

KIDS CLAY CLASS 9-11 a.m. Little Smithy Clay Camp. Children aged 6-8 learn essentials of clay construction. Cost, $170. Materials included. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday through August 4. The Smithy Clay Studio, 55 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8671.

EXERCISE CLASS 10 a.m.

Low-Impact Exercise Class. Designed for seniors but all welcome. Held each Monday and Thursday in July. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309.

FOOD SERVICE Noon to 1 p.m. Children through age 18 receive free food. Activities include a bookmobile, games, more. Monday through Friday in July and August. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 432-0061. BIG KIDS CLAY CLASS Noon to 2:30 p.m. Big Smithy Clay Camp. Children aged 9-12 learn the essentials of clay construction. Cost, $170.

Materials included. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday through August 4. The Smithy Clay Studio, 55 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8671.

MAGIC SHOW 5:30 p.m.

The Magic of Chris Wheel.

Part of the Pathfinder Village Summer Concert Series. Free, concessions available for purchase. Pavilion, Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377.

JAZZ CONCERT 7 p.m.

Alone Together. Jazz. Free; rain or shine. Meadow Links

Golf Pavilion, 476 County Road 27, Richfield Springs.

HOME GAME 7 p.m.

Oneonta Outlaws vs. the Utica Blue Sox, featuring happy hour from 5-6 p.m. before the game. Admission, $5/adult.

Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

WRITING WORKSHOP

7 p.m. “Look Who’s Talking: Persona Writing Workshop” taught by Georgia Popoff.

Writers work to explore characters in new ways. Held each Monday through August 28 on Zoom. Cost, $300. Presented by the Bright Hill Press & Literary Center, Treadwell. (607) 829-5055

►tueSday, July 25

COMMUNITY CONVERSA -

TIONS 8-9 a.m. Networking group discusses Oneonta’s past, present and future. All welcome. Held each Tuesday at Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta.

COMMUNITY HIKE 9:45 a.m. Group hike with the Susquehanna Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate clothing, gear, and be aware of your level of fitness. This week, explore the SUNY Oneonta College Camp with hike leader Peggy Palmer. (607) 432-6024.

SENIOR MEALS Noon. Seniors are invited for a delicious meal each Tuesday and Thursday. Suggested donation is $3.50 for seniors, $8.60 for guests. This week, enjoy sausage with peppers and onions on a roll, baked beans, Brussels sprouts, and pears. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (607) 5476454.

TUESDAY MARKET Noon to 4 p.m. Local farmers and artisans, plus live music, every Tuesday afternoon. Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101 Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. (607) 547-6195.

RABIES CLINIC 6-8 p.m. Free rabies vaccination for cats, dogs, ferrets. Previous vaccination certificate must be presented for the booster. Clifton Park, Unadilla. (607) 547-4230.

YOGA 6:15-7 p.m. “Yoga on the Beach.” Bring a mat or towel. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Road 31, Cooperstown. (607) 5478662.

LAKEFRONT CONCERT

6:30 p.m. Poverty Hill Band. Bluegrass and old-time instrumentals. Lake Front Park Bandstand, Cooperstown. office@cooperstownchamber. org.

LOCAL AUTHOR 8 p.m.

“Pricing The Priceless: The Financial Transformation to Value the Planet, Solve the Climate Crisis, and Protect Our Most Precious Assets” by Paula DiPerna will be discussed by the Half King Reading Series. Free, open to the public. Skylight Gallery, Salmagundi, 47 Fifth Avenue at Twelfth Street, New York. Visit salmagundi.org/halfking-reading-series-pricingthe-priceless/ ►WedneSday, July 26

RIVER PADDLE 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “iSPY Invasive Species Paddle.” Float down Susquehanna River and learn about aquatic and riparian invasive species with the Otsego County Conservation Association. Registration required. Start at Crumhorn Fishing Access Site, Maryland. (607) 547-4488.

PUPPET PERFORMANCE

11 a.m. “Butterfly Boogie” by Dandelion Stage. The bees don’t buzz, the butterflies can’t remember how to fly, and the snails are racing all over everywhere. In interactive performance, children ages 2-5 will jump, glide and boogie as they help garden friends remember to be themselves. Oneonta World of Learning, Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Road, Oneonta. (607) 353-9503.

CRAFTERNOONS 12:30-

3 p.m. Families and children are invited for fun afternoon arts and crafts activities. Snacks provided. Free, open to the public. Held each Wednesday through July 26. This week’s theme is music. Yager Museum of Art & Culture, Hartwick College, Oneonta. (607) 431-4480.

LIBRARY PROGRAM

1 p.m. Reptiles & Friends Outreach Program presented by VIA Aquarium from Schenectady. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0230.

ART CLASS 1-3 p.m. “Learn to Paint With Maria.” Beginner-friendly class to learn painting techniques. Registration required. Springfield Library, 129 County Road 29A, Springfield Center. (315) 858-5802.

LIBRARY SPEAKER

1 p.m. “Bread, Wine and the Unforgettable Host: a Journey from Abruzzo to Burgundy to County Cork.” Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.