Oneonta Food Makers Among Finalists in Statewide Contest
By MONICA CALZOLARI
ONEONTA
Toonie Moonie Organics Ltd. and Vêsucré LLC are two womenowned businesses in Oneonta. Both food makers recently applied to compete in an inaugural competition held by The Business Council of New York State Inc. and dubbed “Coolest Thing Made in New York.”
Forty-five manufacturers applied for “coolest thing” honors. Toonie Moonie and Vêsucré were among the top 16 businesses receiving the most votes in the first round of the contest. Neither business had advanced to round two as of August 12, but they were up against some stiff competition.
General Motors in Buffalo entered its Corvette engine as the “Coolest Thing Made in New York” and The Raymond Corporation in Greene applied to have its robotic “Orderpicker” considered for coolest product honors, among other entrants. The winner will be announced on September 19.
The purpose of the “Coolest Thing” initiative is to spotlight the innovation, creativity and manufacturing excellence of businesses across the state.
Michelle Catan, advanced certified senior business advisor with the New York State Small Business Development Center, suggested that Toonie Moonie and Vêsucré enter the competition as a platform to showcase their food products.
Kim Condon, owner of Toonie Moonie Organics, said,
“Michelle Catan is amazing. She cares. She’s passionate about helping small businesses.”
Sarah Hartmann, founder of Vêsucré, said, “I am truly grateful to be in this competition, and to be alongside Kim Condon is such an honor.”
Both entrepreneurs manufacture products for the health-conscious consumer. Condon is a vegetarian who had a sweet tooth as a child and was nicknamed Toonie Moonie.
Condon said, “Ninety-five percent of my refrigerator and pantry are full of organic products. When I started the company, there were not many organics in the sweet category.”
When Condon had children of her own, she could not find an organic marshmallow product. So, in 2006, she converted her garage into an organic
Continued on page 12
Annual Lake Cleanup Initiates Further Conversation, Concerns
By KRISTIAN CONNOLLY COOPERSTOWN
t’s a scene common to junk yards and landfills across the globe.
Picture a pile containing a small, rusted propane tank; half a six-footlong water tank, cut lengthwise; a single sawhorse; various lengths of corroding pipe; roughly 18 tires of various sizes; planks, boards, and other wood and metal debris of different shapes and sizes; multiple lengths of rope. Nearly a half-ton of detritus.
Now picture those objects in Otsego Lake. This was the case until this past Sunday, August 11, when lakeside
property owners and dedicated volunteers from the Otsego Lake Association cleaned up the shoreline and removed all of that waste during the OLA’s annual “Otsego Lake Cleanup Day.”
Gathered at the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station’s boathouse afterward, researcher and OLA Director for the Town of Otsego Paul Lord observed simply, “Some things that you think wouldn’t end up in the lake do.”
Using a barge supplied by the BFS, the OLA transported all the collected materials to the north side of Three Mile Point. From there, the Village of
Continued on page 13
Mother, Daughter Swim Lake in Support of Hospice
By TERESA WINCHESTER
ITHACA
Joann Curtis of Morris is a retired postmaster, having spent her last six years in that position in West Oneonta. Her daughter, Michele Farwell, who lives in the Town of Butternuts, has fashioned historic reproductions at Adelphi Paper Hangings for the last 24 years. Farwell has also served on the Town of Butternuts Town Board and the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
On Sunday, August 10, this motherdaughter duo dove purposefully into the waters of Cayuga Lake, swimming 1.2 miles from the starting point on one side of the lake to the Ithaca Yacht Club on the other side. Curtis and Farwell were among some 300 participants in the 21st annual “Women Swimmin’ for Hospicare and Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County,” a fundraiser
for women ages 18 and over.
Both women chose to take on the challenge because they believe strongly in the mission of the Ithaca-based Hospicare in particular and hospice care in general.
“I know many people who hospice care has helped through difficult times,” Curtis said.
Farwell agreed, and added, “Hospice gives people peace of mind. It eases the last days of living with their loved ones. We’ve both seen the direct benefit that hospice provides.”
Why support hospice by swimming across a lake?
“We’re both a little crazy,” Curtis laughed. “The swim is a worthy carrot out there to get us motivated.”
Farwell heard about Women Swimmin’ from a friend living in Ithaca.
Continued on page 12
Photo by Debbie Creedon
John Membrino rides the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station barge as he surveys nearly half a ton of debris removed from Otsego Lake on Sunday, August 11.
Photo provided
Kim Condon, owner of Toonie Moonie Organics, invented organic marshmallow cream with her children’s health in mind.
Photo by Norman Farwell
Michele Farwell (left) with her mother, Joann Curtis, after the “Women Swimmin’ for Hospicare and Palliative Care Services of Tompkins County” event at Cayuga Lake on August 10. Both women swam 1.2 miles across the lake.
Otsego Now Helping Businesses Grow with Tax Incentives, Grants
By MONICA CALZOLARI
OTSEGO COUNTY
Otsego County is home to more than 1,200 businesses. Expanding and growing these businesses and attracting new busi nesses to the county is the mission of Otsego Now.
umbrella organiza tion that includes three economic development entities: the County
Resource Corporation and the Oneonta Railyard Local Development Corporation. Otsego Now was formed 10 years ago, in 2014. Jody Zakrevsky has been its chief executive officer since 2017.
entities. It has assisted Hartwick College, Springbrook and Bassett Healthcare Network with large tax-exempt bond issues in the past.
CCS Graduate Connolly Joins Iron String Press Editorial Staff
COOPERSTOWN
As it turns out, you can go home again. Kristian Connolly joined Iron String Press Inc. as a staff writer on Monday, August 12.
A 1995 graduate of Cooperstown Central School, Connolly first joined the Cooperstown community as a 9-yearold in 1987, and he’s been reading (and sometimes appearing in) “The Freeman’s Journal” ever since. After exploring other parts of the country and world for the past two-plus decades, he is extremely pleased that the only place he’s ever truly considered home is now his place once again.
chapter at Iron String Press,” said General Manager/Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs. “His experience in communications and the media, in particular, position us to be able to focus more on municipal and government news and to balance that coverage with our human-interest content. We are very excited to have Kristian on board.”
COIDA is focused on both large industrial and small retail businesses. It has worked with manufacturers including Corning Life Sciences, Custom Electronics, Systematic Power Manufacturing (Ioxus), Andela Products, and Advanced Biotech Inc. Advanced Biotech of New Jersey invested $14 million to expand operations in Otsego County. Zakrevsky said, “For our small- to mediumsized businesses, grant assistance is very important. For our larger employers, payment-inlieu-of-tax assistance (PILOTs) and sales tax exemption are
Continued on page 7
A national and international communications, media, and advocacy professional since 2000, Connolly holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Binghamton University and a graduate certificate in Native American Studies from Montana State University. His professional past includes stops with the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the Minnesota Twins, MLB.com, The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society Legislative Fund, the D.C. law firm Williams & Connolly (no relation), and the Animal Legal Defense Fund.
“Cherokee author, lecturer and artist Thomas King has said that, ‘The truth about stories is that that’s all we are,’” said Connolly. “I share King’s sentiment about it being stories that create the world around us, and that not only does every single person and place have a story, but every single person and place IS a story.”
“We are very fortunate to have Kristian join us,” said Publisher Tara Barnwell. “He brings a vast amount of knowledge, both globally and locally, with him that he plans on sharing with our readers. I know our readers will like his style. We welcome him to our media group and our community.”
A longtime proponent of local and print news and the importance of a paper to its community, Connolly noted that he “doesn’t believe there are ‘small-town’newspapers. Rather, I believe only that there are newspapers in small towns, and that the people should be well served and informed by their community paper.”
Connolly also believes that there is always more to the story than the basic facts or the official narrative, and that there are always interesting stories to be found in unexpected places. A true believer in the power of language and the importance of place, Connolly’s goal is to share meaningful, engaging, exploratory, and enlightening stories with the community.
“Kristian’s arrival on the scene marks a new
Connolly currently, and very happily, lives on seven acres in Fly Creek with his wife, Deborah, a clinical and community herbalist; his soonto-be-teenage daughter, Cora; and the family’s senior feline companion, Santiago.
Photo provided
Ioxus is just one of the businesses assisted by Otsego Now.
Photo by Tara Barnwell KRISTIAN CONNOLLY
Alzheimer’s Assoc. Invites Residents to Community Conversation
here are 426,500 New Yorkers living with Alzheimer’s disease. In order to provide the highest level of support in the community, the Alzheimer’s Association, Northeastern New York Chapter will conduct a listening session on Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and memory loss on Thursday, August 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Gathering Place, a new senior center in Oneonta. Those living with dementia, family members and friends serving as Alzheimer’s caregivers, as well as the general public who may have questions on memory loss will have the opportunity to discuss how the Alzheimer’s Association can best serve their community.
“We are proud to offer programs in the community free of charge centered around raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease, the warning signs, and healthy brain habits, as well as educate caregivers on more specific topics like common behaviors and communicating effectively,” said Ann Thayer, associate director of programs and services for Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties for the Alzheimer’s Association, Northeastern New York Chapter.
“I was able to care for my wife at home, thanks to Helios Care.”
“When Susie’s cancer reared its ugly head, we knew we needed hospice care,” Tom said. “She wanted to stay at home. Helios Care made that happen. They were like angels – expert caregivers, so loving and compassionate.”
“Additionally, we offer local support groups and personalized care consultations, where I meet with families to discuss concerns and help create an action plan for caring for their loved one with the disease. But there may be other ways or ideas on how we can address the needs of our community, which is why we’re excited to hold this listening session,” Thayer said. “We encourage you to bring a friend or family member who has been affected by this disease and come ready to share your thoughts.”
Immediately following the conversation, the Northern Catskills Aging in Place Consortium will hold a lunch and discussion about launching a community advisory council made up exclusively of older adults.
According to a media release, the advisory council would help guide the consortium as it works to improve access
Find out how Helios Care can help your family care safely for a loved one at home.
607.432.5525 • HeliosCare.org
5.25
to health care, social activities and other community programs that are important to older adults.
“In order to continue to make Oneonta and surrounding communities more age-friendly, your input, suggestions and guidance are needed,” said Bassett Healthcare Networks’ Carolyn Lewis. “We will answer questions about our work and hopefully recruit a number of people to join this council.”
A Panera Bread lunch will be served, courtesy of the Aging in Place Consortium. To register, call The Gathering Place at (607) 267-4732 by August 16.
Date: August 21, 2024
Time: 12 pm-6 pm
Location: Fieldstone Lobby, Bassett Medical Center, 1 Atwell Rd, Cooperstown, NY
Same-day interviews & job offers available! Hiring for multiple locations and shifts
HOMETOWN Views
AnnETTE bAkkER
Research Hindered by Hoarded Tissue Donations
Imagine receiving the shattering news that your daughter has cancer. Suddenly, you’re battling for her life. In the midst of treatment, you’re asked to sign a flurry of consent forms for her tissue to be donated for scientific research.
Seeking to help others devastated by the same cruel disease, you agree. But in a twist, you’re never told how her tissue samples are actually being used—or if they ever get used at all.
You wouldn’t be alone. I lead the Children’s Tumor Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting a rare genetic disease called neurofibromatosis, or NF. There’s no cure for the condition, which causes tumors to grow on nerves. The families I work with are desperate for treatments. That’s why they sign the many lengthy “informed consent” documents presented to them at hospitals, asking for permission to use tissue taken for research. But they have no control over how those samples are eventually utilized. Often, specimens simply collect dust on shelves.
The same thing happens frequently to older cancer patients and those battling other diseases. Many have undergone a biopsy or provided another tissue sample for the purpose of testing or treatment. They often wrongly assume that their samples will be used to aid research, and so sign out of a wish to help others.
Unlike organ donation, the market for “biomaterial” is largely unregulated. Hospitals typically provide it to “biobanks,” storage facilities that enter into partnerships with hospitals to gain access to tissue.
Currently, biobanks often impede medical progress by hoarding specimens. I know firsthand that a lack of access to tumor samples and cell lines is a major problem for NF research. I regularly encounter obstacles in helping researchers obtain these materials.
Even when biobanks do provide specimens to researchers, they typically choose those with whom they have strong personal relationships or who can help them publish in prestigious publications. That means researchers in many fields lack access to tissue that would validate their hypotheses.
Most cancer patients want to support research, even if they don’t stand to benefit directly. But it’s deeply unfair to take someone’s tissue or bone marrow without telling them how such tissue will be used—or giving them a say in who gets to use it.
Beyond basic ownership, patients should have more input on how their biomaterial is used. They should be able to decide for themselves which researchers receive their specimens—or consult with trusted patient organizations to make such decisions. They should also have the option to donate only to nonprofit biobanks, or to stipulate that access to their material shall not be restricted at all.
While some biobanks tout a supposed commitment to valuing patient input, these proclamations are little more than window dressing in practice. To give patients a real say in the tissue donation process, we need patient committees for biobanks at large hospitals. Numerous studies have found that public involvement in biobanks bolsters long-term medical research and ensures more samples end up in laboratories.
Patients deserve transparency and influence when it comes to how their own bodies are used for research. Empowering them to make informed decisions will help accelerate medical progress for the greater good.
Annette Bakker is president of the Children’s Tumor Foundation.
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.
‘Gamed’ Disposable Vapes: Big Tobacco’s Push To Addict Kids
Video games in vapes are the tobacco industry’s latest tactic to try to addict youth to their products. Yes, you read that correctly. Kids can now get addicted to two things at once: nicotine and gambling.
“Gamed” disposable vapes, like regular ones, come in a range of sweet, fruity, or minty flavors and colorful packaging, which the tobacco industry has long used to attract and tempt youth into trying them. In addition to flavoring, the liquid in e-cigarettes contain glycerols and often high concentrations of nicotine, because the industry knows youth and young adults can become addicted to vaping more quickly and have a more difficult time quitting later on than older adults. Gamed e-cigarettes found online contain 5 percent nicotine or about 50mg of nicotine per vape, the equivalent to roughly two packs of cigarettes.
Embedding vapes with video games adds a steroidal level to attracting and addicting youth. Vaping is now a fun game for kids and gambling for adults, and they are promoted as such. Consider one brand, Lost URSA Pocket Pod, which offers three different video games: Virtual Pet, Puff Count Competition and Slot Machine. Virtual Pet’s screen shows a cute puppy dog and mimics children’s virtual pet games, except with URSA, you “[r]aise your virtual pet with every puff. Earn coins, buy various foods, and watch your pet level up as you enjoy your vaping sessions,” according to one website. Puff Count Competition allows you to “rank your puff count and use the information to win real prizes online,” according to a May 2024 LinkedIn article by Mia Chen, an e-cigarette manufacturer representative. Slot Machine is self-explanatory.
Unlike other gamed vapes, URSA does not come with e-liquid. No worries, online sellers offer a plethora of e-liquids in flavors such as Blue Razz Slushy, Candy King, and Watermelon Mint, as well as tobacco or unflavored options for older adults who tend to eschew flavored products.
The newer Craftbox V-Play 20K Disposable Vape, which Chen says
Looking Ahead to 2025 Festival
Opera appears to be in a demographic free-fall. At a mere 75, I was about middleaged at a Glimmerglass performance of “Pagliacci.”
“promises to revolutionize the vaping experience,” has a built-in gaming console, with a 1.77 inch full-color HD display and three retro knock-off games of Pac-Man, Tetris and fighter jets. They come in bright colors and flavors such as Cherry Pop and Yummy Gummy. “20K” means the user will get about 20,000 puffs. In case vape websites’ images and flavors do not grab youth’s attention, an accompanying promotional video called “Puff and Play” should. It opens like a classic video game, with retro blocky font and blip laser noises that quickly segue to flashing, colorful images of the Craftboxes set to fast, energetic music. The vapes’ features are highlighted amid cool, swirling graphics, with PacMen gobbling up dots and Star Warsesque fighter jets swooping and blasting multicolored laser beams. The video ends with the slogan, “We’re gaming your vape.” Indeed they are.
URSA and Craftbox vapes come with child locks, but children who can read at a third-grade level, access the web or just observe people using them can learn quickly how to disable them. Kids can also easily access over 76 percent of vape stores’ websites, even though it is illegal to sell tobacco and nicotine products to persons under 21, by just clicking the “I am 21+” button or typing in a fake birthdate. Kids can buy vapes easily, too, according to research by Truth Initiative, which aims to prevent youth and young adults from becoming addicted to nicotine products. TI reports social media like TikTok “promote ‘discreet shipping’ services that conceal e-cigarettes in cosmetics, candy, and beauty products [and] attempt to circumvent age restrictions on e-cigarette sales as well as parental oversight.” While URSAs and Craftboxes are larger than those items, they are pocket-sized and fairly easy to hide.
The tobacco industry spends $9 billion annually marketing its products to children because it works. Youth are regularly exposed to ads for tobacco products, especially flavored vapes and especially on social media. Research has long shown that the more children
mental whodunit based on Jack the Ripper, premiered.
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
H o metown oneon t a 2008 - 2024 16th anniversary & The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch
a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.
Publisher / Advertising Manager Tara Barnwell
Staff Writer: Kristian Connolly
General Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs
Office Manager: Larissa Ryan
Sales Consultant: Randy Christian Interm: Arya Patel
Columnists and Contributing Writers
Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Karolina Hopper, Wriley Nelson, Joel J. Plue, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin
Web Architect Xander Moffat Historian Tom Heitz/Sharon Stuart Legal Counsel Jill Ann Poulson
Editorial Board
Tara Barnwell, Faith Gay, Michael Moffat, Elinor Vincent, Darla M. Youngs
MEMBER OF:
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 Glimmerglass Festival is trying to address the problem with discounted seats and a children’s opera, “Rumpelstiltskin.”
They might also reconsider their programming choices. A great opera can give you transcendent experiences. I remember vividly leaving a performance of “The Tales of Hoffman” on a freezing night with my beautiful young wife, with the “Barcarolle” playing in my head. Or, after our daughters had four granddaughters, realizing that “O Mio Babbino Caro” might be sung to me.
This season’s shows included the delightfully puerile farce, “The Pirates of Penzance,” which should appeal to younger audiences, and “Calisto,” a baroque gender-bender that didn’t play at La Scala until 2017, coincidentally the same year that “Elizabeth Cree,” an experi-
“Pagliacci” is, in part, a retelling of the “Pygmalion” myth. The protagonist, Canio, says that he “picked his wife off the street, gave her his name and made her what she is.” “Pagliacci” in turn inspired “The Blue Angel,” which launched Marlene Dietrich’s career, who was, in turn, parodied by Madeline Kahn in “Blazing Saddles.” Much of this may be lost on younger audiences, but not on old liberal arts majors.
Leoncavallo was writing at a time when art was becoming, per Nietzsche, a substitute for religious experience. Wagner had written “Gotterdammerung,” the “Twilight of the Gods,” 16 years prior and “Pagliacci” is set during The Feast of the Assumption—a bit of non-Scriptural Vatican overreach. The contrast between the Virgin Mary, invoked by Canio, and his Earth Mother wife, Nedda, is truly operatic. The earthy reality of this slice-of-life may have informed Italian Neorealist cinema. Canio’s aria at the conclusion of the first act is
one of those transcendent experiences that great opera was designed to deliver. With the first familiar introductory strains, I leaned forward in my seat and clenched my hands together. As if in church. Grazie mille, Glimmerglass. I look forward to next year’s “Tosca” and “The House on Mango Street.”
Chip Northrup Cooperstown
Thanks To Those Who Have Helped
In two weeks, on the 26th of August, I will be starting my first day of classes during my last semester at SUNY Oneonta.
During my time as a student at SUNY Oneonta, I have met phenomenal and inspiring professors and faculty, who have cared deeply about the students in their lives and those students’ careers in their chosen fields of study. I have met and occasionally hung out with my fellow students, who are very passionate about their work ethic as scholars.
There are two people whom I give an extraordinary amount
Continued on page 13 Continued on page
THE PARTIAL ObSERvER
jEnnIfER HILL
Compiled by Tom
HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art museum Research Library
135 Years ago
The oneonta Phosphate Company uses material which has heretofore gone to waste. It is located about one mile east of the village. The superintendent of this company, Mr. a.B. Coffin, began the manufacture of phosphate about five years ago in the village of Middlefield. He gradually enlarged his works there til he was able to send out 240 tons a year. But the lack of railway facilities hampered him. accordingly he came to oneonta less than a year ago and organized the present company, of which N.I. Ford is president and which has a nominal capital of $12,000 though twice that amount is employed in the business. The company was incorporated in January and the first products of the factory were put on the market april 17th. only about 150 tons were made, the company preferring to spend the present summer in preparation. The company manufactures three varieties of fertilizers – potato phosphate, the domestic brand and superphosphate. These vary principally in the quantities of nitrogen and ammonia contained. another product is the domestic egg food, a mixture of granulated bone, oyster shells and glass. No other company manufactures this and the demand is practically unlimited. Mr. Coffin has already made and sold over 75 tons, and 300 tons more will be made at once. among other marketable products of the fertilizer works are neat’s-foot oil, of which they have a barrel each day, soap grease in large quantities, horns, hoofs and hides.
August 1889
90 Years ago
oneonta and vicinity residents turned out by the thousands yesterday to see a genuine, old-time circus parade, a spectacle that had not been witnessed in this city for many a year. Downie Brothers three-ring circus, the third largest in the world, staged a parade that recalled bygone days to the older folks and provided new thrills for the youngsters. seventeen wagons, including a steam calliope, together with three bands, five elephants, four camels, fair ladies on horseback, clowns, lions, monkeys, and ponies drew a generous share of attention and approval. The line of march led from the circus grounds on Wilcox Flats up Main street to Chestnut, to Church, through the residential sections, and back down Main street.
August 1934
40 Years ago
New Yorkers under age 21 who are found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will automatically lose their licenses for at least a year, under a bill signed by gov. Mario Cuomo. The measure imposes strict new license sanctions on those under 19 who drink and drive and to second offenders under age 21. The new law requires that anyone under 19 found guilty of driving while intoxicated, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or who refuses to take a breath or blood test, lose their license for a year, or until they reach 19, whichever is the greatest amount of time. Convicted second offenders under age 21 will automatically lose their licenses for a year, or until they are 21.
August 1984
20 Years ago
Many physicians wear neckties to achieve a look of professionalism. But new research shows the neckties carry bacteria that can spread disease. researchers found that neckties donned by doctors at a Queens hospital were nesting spots for germs. Past research has implicated stethoscopes, pens and white coats as germ carriers. With ties now on the list of suspected germ-spreaders, some physicians predict a relaxation in physician attire and staff dress codes. The study at Queens sampled 42 neckties worn by doctors, physician assistants and medical students at the teaching hospital. about half of the neckties worn by physicians were found to harbor potential pathogens.
August 2004
Solution: “Homophone Hospital” (August 8)
Family Farm Day Celebrates Local agriculture
Many of us drive past farms in our daily travels—some of us understand the things we see as we pass local farms, but many of us do not. and although we may know the farmers who have farm stands, or bring their produce to our local farmers’ markets, not all farmers can sell at farmers’ markets or consistently reap the benefits of agritourism, and many small farms face challenges connecting with local customers.
Cornell Cooperative extension schoharie otsego Counties developed Family Farm Day in 2013 to enhance public awareness of agriculture through farm visits, and to provide participating farms with opportunities to expand their local customer base and increase direct-to-consumer sales. Participating farms have reported building clientele from FFD visitors, and the annual event continues to achieve its goal of generating business for participating farms. each year, FFD helps increase public awareness and knowledge of agriculture, builds lasting relationships between producers and consumers, and increases engagement in local agriculture.
CCeso’s annual Family Farm Day is a unique opportunity for visitors to experience engaging “open farm” tours and interactive activities at participating farms in schoharie, otsego, and Delaware counties. Visitors to these farms can
By MerL reagLe
learn about local agriculture, and FFD farms can share their ever-evolving “stories”—their operations, their products, their history, and their vision. FFD familiarizes visitors with the diverse operations of local farms and keeps the important role of agriculture in our region in the public dialogue.
Continued on page 11
Tech Stocks I’d Like To See…
Wordplay in the workplace
ACROSS
1 Author Hunter
5 Clinton’s nickname
10 Cereal grass
13 The Minnow, for one
17 Birthplace of Christopher Columbus
19 Author Fallaci
21 Tag team, typically
22 Baltic capital
23 Lonesome comedian’s worldwide company?
25 Online service with links to bagel companies?
27 Abdul and Zahn
28 “___ pretty sight” 29 Flower support 30 It’s “the word” 31 Part: abbr. 32 17th century Tokyo
33 Computer company that scares even Microsoft?
36 Consumer magazine for robot owners?
41 Language ending
42 Comintern’s founder
43 Completely
44 “Take ___ your leader”
45 Docs’ org.
47 Word before base or ball
48 Fed first name, once
50 Most ruthless of the online corporate raiders?
Online dating service for nurses?
CIA precursor
Magician’s prop
“Silent” prez
Scatters seed
“That’s a no-brainer!”
With 35 Down, Jurassic Park star
Anti-government home page?
Photo by Kathleen Collis
family farm Day has been enhancing public awareness of agricultural enterprises through farm visits since 2013.
AROUND THE TOWNS
COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Fire Department recently came out in force to celebrate Rowen Nocciolino’s strength and positive spirit as he battles cancer. Rowen was presented with a “Future Cooperstown Firefighter” t-shirt and thanked firefighters for “the best day ever.”
COOPERSTOWN—The Clark family joined Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, Village of Cooperstown trustees, and members of the community in celebrating Arbor Day on July 5 with the dedication of two flowering crab apple trees in memory of Bill and Liz Clark. The trees were planted on the median of Pine Boulevard, in front of the Clarks’ longtime home.
than 100 community members attended the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field
on Thursday, August 1 to explore the offices, classrooms and laboratories of the BFS. Officials said two of the evening’s highlights were rides on the BFS barge, the Anodontoides, and intern presentations, where budding scientists of all ages enjoyed hands-on interactions.
SPRINGFIELD—A photo published on June 13, 2024, said to be of a 26-1/2 inch walleye caught by SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station interns was, in fact, not the right photo. The original picture featured a largemouth bass, a popular gamefish and prominent member of the Otsego Lake fish community. Both fish were caught as part of an annual survey conducted by the BFS of near-shore fishes. Above, summer research intern Joshua Hardesty displays the “real” walleye. According to SUNY Oneonta officials, this walleye catch is significant not only because of its size (about as large as they grow), but because of the history it represents.
Photo by Gabi Nocciolino
Photo by Cindy Falk
Photo provided
Photo courtesy SUNY Oneonta
SPRINGFIELD—More
Station Open House
Photo by WilliamJayMiller.com
COOPERSTOWN—Attendance at the 2024 Baseball Hall of Fame Induction was estimated at 28,000. This year’s NBHoF inductees were manager Jim Leyland and players Adrian Beltré, Joe Mauer, and Todd Helton.
Photo by Monica Calzolari ONEONTA—Troy Jorgensen of Schenevus has sold gourmet kettle corn at summer festivals, including 4th of July in Neahwa Park, for 14 years.
Photo by Darla M. Youngs COOPERSTOWN—The Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Helping Paws Fashion Show and benefit, held on June 8 at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, featured ensembles curated from the shelter’s New Leash on Life Thrift Shop and local retailers. Above, model Natalia McPherson strikes a pose at the end of the runway.
Photo provided
WHITESBORO—Bill Michaels, owner of the Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard, received the William K. Guglielmo Legacy Award from the Chamber Alliance of the Mohawk Valley at an awards presentation in April. Pictured above with Michaels (center) are Rachel Siderine, vice chair of the Chamber Alliance, and Ray Durso, Chamber Alliance chair.
Andrea Thies Receives Grant To Bring Rowing to Schools
Oneonta native Andrea Thies, a two-time Olympian and U.S. Rowing Paralympic coach, recently won a prestigious 2024 World Olympians Association Service to Society grant. This global initiative supports 30 projects in 25 countries and will allow Thies to inspire social change in Central New York with rowing and Olympic values.
With additional support from Otsego Area Rowing, the grant will allow Sherburne-Earlville and Cooperstown school districts to integrate rowing into their physical education curricula. Teachers and schools interested in the program, which offers free training, equipment, and support, should contact Aaron Sorensen at the Catskill Regional Teacher Center at Sorensea@ dcmoboces.com.
Yerdon-Putnam Reunion: 76 Years Strong and Counting
Four generations of the descendants of Floyd and Myrtle Putnam Yerdon gathered on Sunday, July 28 for the 76th annual reunion at Fortin Park in Oneonta.
Thirty-nine relatives enjoyed Brooks’ barbecue chicken and many homemade side dishes and desserts. Following the meal, an auction was held with family auctioneer David E. Yerdon and his wife, Linda, assisting.
The eldest family member was David E. Yerdon of Cherry Valley, son of George Sr. and Flossie (Kane) Yerdon. His great-granddaughter Alana Wooden, daughter of Bryce and Abbey Wooden of Oneonta, was the youngest family member present. Traveling the longest distance, from Temple, Texas, were Richard and Linda Fassett, son of Sylvia and Myron Fassett. Other relatives attending were from Cherry Valley, East Springfield, Oneonta, Syracuse, North Syracuse and Cohoes.
Giavanna Russo (great-granddaughter of Edna Yerdon) and Ray Madison were joined in marriage on October 13, 2023. There were no births or deaths. The family with the most members present was the family of David E. Yerdon, with four generations and 19 members attending.
The reunion committee of Lori Rausch and Kimberly (Yerdon) Wooden will continue for the 77th Yerdon Putnam reunion on Sunday, July 27, 2025.
By WRILEY NELSON BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Local photographer John Kosmer’s first solo exhibition, part of PH21 Photography Gallery’s Photographic Visions—Summer 2024, is open at the Budapest gallery until Tuesday, August 20. The show features 25 selections from Kosmer’s “Mug Shot Project,” a series of tableaus starring his outlandish collection of vintage sculpted drinking mugs.
he said, offering an explanation for the surreal tableaus. “One day, I opened the cabinet and they were staring back at me. I thought I could do something with that.”
The scenes gently and humorously chide aspects of American culture and customs. Unlike those of many other photography exhibitions, Kosmer’s captions are an essential part of each piece’s meaning. He compared the shots to “New Yorker” cartoons in their style and spirit.
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Otsego
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important.”
PILOT agreements are the main way that Otsego Now generates revenue.
“Last year, we had a record year with paymentin-lieu-of-tax-agreements which increased our revenues by $240,000.00, bringing our fund balance to over $1.5 million,” Zakrevsky said.
Meaghan Remillard, Otsego Now director of finance and administration, said, “City of Oneonta businesses are lucky. They have two opportunities to apply for micro-enterprise grants.”
Both Otsego County and the City of Oneonta award micro-enterprise grants. Otsego Now administers the microenterprise program on behalf of the county.
Remillard has successfully run two county-wide micro-enterprise grant programs. Otsego Now provided $283,000.00 in grants to small businesses through the Community Development Block Grant. Each business can receive up to $35,000.00.
Zakrevsky summarizes the agency’s achievements, saying, “This year, we are proud to say that our Richfield Springs EcoIndustrial Park is finally beginning construction.
Ango Construction was hired to extend water and sewer lines to this park and build a new entranceway into the park. Permits have been obtained from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York State Department of Transportation and the county’s Code Enforcement Office. The federal Economic Development Agency has issued a notice to commence construction,” Zakrevsky said.
Cooperstown Projects
In the Village of Cooperstown, Otsego Now has assisted with financing for the Cooperstown Distillery expansion, as well as payment-in-lieu-of tax agreements and sales tax exemption for Chestnut Crossing, a 13-unit new construction multifamily housing facility just off Main Street. Otsego Now is
currently working with Vecino Group New York LLC on plans to build a 50-unit, threestory affordable housing development, also in Cooperstown.
Oneonta Projects
The “Ford on Main” Springbrook project in downtown Oneonta, valued at $6.6 million, had its grand opening in May 2024. The fully
“I was storing some of these antique sculpted face mugs for my daughter,”
modernized building brings 24 affordable, market-rate apartments to the city center. “Ford on Main” serves as integrated housing for working professionals and supports those with developmental disabilities.
“We are in the process of building a new business park at the Oneonta Railyards,” Zakrevsky said. “Oneonta is served by NYSEG for natural gas
Kosmer, 75, earned an MFA in
through their DeRuyter line running from Norwich to Oneonta. That line is at capacity. Studying the feasibility of a heat pump system could allow new businesses to have an alternative to using natural gas.”
Otsego Now accomplishes all of this with only two full-time employees and one parttime staff member. The agency is currently short-
staffed and is hiring.
“We would not be as successful without the support of the Otsego County Board of Representatives and the county administrator, [or without] such great leadership on our own Board of Directors,” Zakrevsky said. For more information on Otsego Now, or to learn about its programs, visit otsegonow.com.
ONEONTA
Photo provided
John Kosmer’s “Mug Shot Project” is currently on view more than 4,000 miles away.
Photographer Kosmer Opens Solo Exhibition in Budapest
ONEONTA
Dreams Summer
Percussionist Justin Jay Hines To Pitch a Musical Doubleheader
COOPERSTOWN
The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival is set to knock it out of the park with a musical doubleheader featuring acclaimed percussionist, composer and teaching artist Justin Jay Hines on Friday, August 16. Both events in this free, family-friendly twin bill are open to the public, with registration required.
Hines, a veteran performer and teaching artist with the New York Philharmonic and other all-star ensembles, will
summer dreams BrIeFs
bring his major league talent to Cooperstown for a day of interactive music-making.
The first event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. with “Buckets of Fun!” at Origins Cafe, a garden and eatery in Cooperstown dedicated to “serving the well-being of soil, people and planet.” Participants aged 7 and up will craft percussion tools from natural materials and learn funky hip-hop rhythms on garden buckets, which will be provided. The workshop culminates in a group bucket
Memorial Concert is Sunday
GILBERTSVILLE—The Major’s Inn, 104 Marion Avenue in Gilbertsville, will host a free memorial concert in honor of the late Ken Held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 18. Held was a prominent local musician, founding member of the band Fetish Lane and driving force behind the “Music at the Major’s Inn” concert series. He passed away in December. Area musicians are encouraged to participate by contacting Sean Schaeffer on Facebook.
FCAHS Meets August 28th
FLY CREEK—The Fly Creek Area Historical Society will hold its next meeting at the Grange building, 208 Cemetery Road, on Wednesday, August 28. There will be a potluck dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting, annual reports and election of officers at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. Attendees should bring a dish to pass.
Artisan Festival Coming Up
COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce will present its seventh annual Artisan Festival at the Otsego County Campus on upper Main Street on Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1. There will be unique handmade goods
drumming performance.
For the second event of the day, Hines will present “Rhythm ‘Round the World” at 3 p.m. at The Farmers’ Museum. This signature workshop explores the global history of percussion through stories, solos and demonstrations. Attendees will first create their own instruments using recycled materials and create a percussion soundtrack for Native American storytelling.
“We’re excited to have Justin pitch this doubleheader
in Cooperstown,” said Linda Chesis, artistic director of the Cooperstown Chamber Music Festival. “These workshops offer a fantastic opportunity for families to engage with music in a hands-on, creative way.”
Both events are appropriate for ages 7 and up. Adults are welcome to participate. All materials will be provided for the morning session. For the afternoon event, attendees are encouraged to bring metal, plastic, and cardboard recyclable items to create instruments.
from more than 50 local artists, live music, food trucks, artisan demonstrations and children’s activities. The festival is free and open to the public.
Fiber Arts Weekend To Return
COOPERSTOWN—The Farmers’ Museum’s Fiber Arts Weekend will return from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, August 24 and 25. Visitors will find a variety of exhibits, vendors, and hands-on activities including wool carding, spinning, weaving, quilting, knitting and cranking.
This year’s festival will focus on traditional dyeing techniques. It will feature more than 18 demonstrators and vendors, including Dark Sea Yarn, Fenimore Quilt Club and Ancient Threads Farm. Hand-spun yarn, apothecary items, quilts, sheep milk soap and many other local products will be available for sale. Fiber Arts Weekend is included with museum admission.
Grange Meeting Is August 21
OTSEGO—The Pierstown Grange will host its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 21 at 137 Wedderspoon Hollow Road. The potluck supper begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by a business meeting and special program. Newcomers
Justin Jay Hines is a highly accomplished percussionist who has performed with the New York Philharmonic, The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and numerous other prestigious ensembles. A dedicated educator, he has served as a Lead New York Philharmonic Teaching Artist since 1997 and will make his sixth appearance hosting the New York Philharmonic’s Young People’s Concert, “The Future is Innovation,” in February 2025.
are welcome. The Grange was built in 1898 and continues to offer barbecue dinners and Glimmerglass Festival concerts annually.
Makers Sought for Fair
HERKIMER—Herkimer College will present “Makers of the Mohawk Valley,” an exhibit featuring art and fine crafted objects from local makers, from Friday, August 30 through Friday, September 27. Artists who wish to be considered for the show must drop off their work from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, August 23 or from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, August 24. Each participant may submit up to two pieces created in the last three years. All submissions must be ready to display. The exhibit is free and open to the public, with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. on August 30. For more information regarding entries, contact comojm@herkimer.edu.
Loudon Presents on Caboose
ONEONTA—Local historian Jim Loudon will present a talk on Oneonta’s Little Red Caboose and the history of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen at the Swart-Wilcox House Museum’s Summer Sunday Series on August 18. The free event will run from 1-3 p.m. Visitors should bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Use this brochure and map to plan your route of discovery across the Route 20 Scenic Byway. Descriptions of many Scenic Excursions are included throughout this brochure. Visit www.nyroute20.com for information on hundreds of destinations, dining and lodging establishments, events and more. You can even do a geographic search to see what’s nearby, wherever you are in the Route 20 Scenic Byway corridor.
Dreams Summer
Ryan Matter Band To Headline Saturday’s Summer Harvest Fest
MORRIS
Butternut Valley Alliance has announced that the Ryan Matter Band, a Texas blues power trio now based in the Utica area, will headline the lineup of performers and other attractions at this year’s Butternut Valley Summer Harvest Festival. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 17 from noon to 6 p.m. in Rathbun Park, 117 Main Street, Morris.
According to a media release, lead singer/songwriter Ryan Matter got his start while working at a live Texas music venue, where he met artists on the Red Dirt Music Scene who, on seeing the fire in his eye and hearing his unique sound, encouraged him to release his music. Matter’s sound is a fusion of the music that cultivated him as an artist, including Social Distortion, The Ramones, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Cross Canadian Ragweed.
The full schedule of
Dinner Will Benefit SNAP Match Program
OTSEGO
The Cooperstown Lions Club and Hulse Hill Farm
will hold their second annual chicken dinner to benefit the Lions SNAP Match Program on Saturday, August 24, in conjunction with Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Family Farm Day.
Willy’s Good Chicken Dinner will be served for takeout or dine-in from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each $15.00 dinner includes a quarter chicken, beans, coleslaw, pie and a beverage. Tickets may be purchased at CoopSNAPMatch.org, at the door or from any Lions Club member.
The club has supported SNAP Match at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market since 2019, providing up to $20.00 in matching funds for SNAP recipients to purchase eligible food items. It promotes healthy eating choices, supports local farmers and keeps money in the local economy.
FCAHS Serves
Lunch on Yard Sale Day
FLY CREEK
The Fly Creek Area
Historical Society will serve lunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the Fly Creek Community Yard Sale Day on Saturday, August 24.
There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and dessert with a suggested donation of $8.00. Lunch will be served at the Grange building, 208 Cemetery Road.
Summer Harvest Festival performances is: Khalil Carney, noon to 1 p.m.; Elysian Blue, 1:15-2:45 p.m.; Otsego School of Dance and Performing Arts, 3-3:15 p.m.; the Ryan Matter Band, 3:30-5 p.m.; and Local Seisiún, 5:05-6 p.m.
Other attractions include the Morris Farmer’s Market, free food and ice cream, numerous exhibitors and arts and crafts vendors, goats for petting, antique tractors, door prizes, face painting, rock painting, raffles, and more, officials said.
Food options include Philippines-style lamb stew by The Empire House Hotel & Fine Dining in Gilbertsville, burgers and “dogs” by Gates-Cole Insurance Agency in Morris, ice cream by Get The Scoop in Morris, and cider sampling
by Uncommon Kind Cidery in New Berlin.
This year marks the 14th edition of the festival, which began in 2009 and has been run every year since then, with the exception of 2020 during the COVID19 pandemic and 2021, due to flooding. Firsttime Event Manager Gabi Eklund—whose father, Bob Eklund, was instrumental in the founding of the BVA and the Summer Harvest Festival—said, “I am really excited to be a part of this event. I predict it will be the best ever!”
BVA Chairperson Ed Lentz agreed and added, “We’re very happy to be putting on this event again. It’s a good time, with plenty of attractions for kids as well as young and not-so-young adults, and a good chance to meet with friends, old and
new, from throughout the watershed and beyond.”
Limited parking is available in the firehouse parking lot, where an area for persons requiring assistance will be provided. Other parking is available behind Naylor’s on Main Street, with on-street parking on Main and Church streets, Lentz said.
BVA is a 501c3 charitable community organization, the mission of which is to encourage the Butternut Creek watershed to become an even better place to live, work and play. BVA activities connect communities, protect the environment and promote the arts.
For more information, contact Event Manager Gabi Eklund at gabbimusic1@gmail.com or (607) 201-9772 or BVA Chairperson Ed Lentz at edlentz@mac.com or (607) 435-8566.
Photo provided
The Ryan Matter Band will perform from 3:30-5 p.m. at the Butternut Valley Alliance Summer Harvest Festival.
Cooperstown Officials Seeking ‘Village Seal’ Design Proposals
COOPERSTOWN
the Village of Cooperstown is soliciting design proposals for an official village seal.
On June 24, the Board of Trustees voted to enter into a “Sister City” relationship with Nettuno, Italy. The connection between Nettuno—known as the “City of Baseball”—and America’s favorite pastime began during World War II, when American soldiers landed on the beaches of Nettuno, fighting to liberate the town from Nazi occupation.
According to a media release, the
fierce battles resulted in significant casualties but, ultimately, the American invasion led to the liberation of Rome and the entire Italian peninsula. In gratitude, the people of Nettuno developed a profound kinship with the American soldiers. This bond was further strengthened by the soldiers’ daily baseball games, which sparked a lasting passion for the sport in Nettuno.
Nettuno has shared its city seal with the Village of Cooperstown for use in publicity, and has asked for Cooperstown to do the same. However, Cooperstown doesn’t
Walsh completes 360-Mile Fundraising Hike
NEW YORK—Tom Walsh of Worcester, a 66-year-old hiker, trail volunteer and cancer survivor, completed the 360-mile Long Path from Thacher State Park in Voorheesville to 175th Street in Manhattan in 37 days. He raised more than $5,000.00 for patient services at Bassett Cancer Institute and for Otsego Outdoors, with donations still coming in. Visit otsegooutdoors.org to donate.
“It was beautiful and brutal,” Walsh told Otsego Outdoors. “I saw amazing things and met amazing people.” He hiked the trail northbound in 2020, making him the first known person to complete it in both directions in single trips according to the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference. This was Walsh’s fifth charity hike; he has walked more than 1,360 miles and raised more than $25,000.00. He plans to continue next year.
currently have on official seal.
“Rather than propose something ourselves, we would like to hear from you,” village officials explained in a press release. “Submit your design for a village seal by e-mailing your PDF file to village@cooperstownny.org by September 15.”
Files should be a minimum of 300dpi at 5x7 inches, officials said. Submissions will be evaluated by
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Notice of formatioN of Clear Run Farm LLC.
Articles of incorporation filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on July 4, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 3250 State Highway 166, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalAug.15
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
RODRIGO MAPLE LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 3 July, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 15 South St., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalAug.15
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Notice of formatioN of Big Lion Little Bear LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/04/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 496 Eggleston Hill Rd. Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalAug.15
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Notice of formatioN of Traveling with Natasha Rifenburgh, LLC.
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 29 June, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 955 Center Valley Road, Worcester, NY 12197. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalAug.15
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Notice of formatioN of A. Mercado 13820, LLC.
Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 07/03/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated
as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 693 St. Hwy. 205, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act.
6LegalAug.22
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Notice of formatioN of Watson’s Acres LLC.
Filed 5/15/24. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to 141 Allen Rd., Mt. Vision, NY 13810. Purp: any lawful. 6LegalAug.22
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Notice of formatioN of ALM Handyman LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/7/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 276 Fred Ottaway Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.22
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Notice of formatioN of CONCIERGE MEDICAL LIAISON PLLC
a panel of judges, finalists will be presented to the public for input, and the winner will be selected at the village Board of Trustees meeting on September 23.
“While baseball might be part of the design, we invite submitters to also consider the historic character and natural beauty of our village,” officials urged.
cooperstown-born author Releases new Book
PIERRE, SD Laura Beth Dean, a nurse and author born in Cooperstown and currently based in southwest Virginia, will release her second children’s book on Tuesday, August 13. “Georgia Jipp: Blizzard Pilot” follows the true story of the eponymous western South Dakota rescue pilot. Jipp earned her pilot’s license at age 19 and was married in an airplane circling over Philip, South Dakota two
LEGALS
Arts. of Org. filed SSNY on 7/3/2024. Otsego Co. SSNY design. agent for process & shall mail to 101 CEMETERY RD., FLY CREEK, NY 13337 General Purpose. 6LegalAug.22
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Notice of formatioN of professioNaL Limited LiabiLitY compaNY, (pLLc);
Name:
Howser Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, PLLC;
Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/15/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 678 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Registered Professional Nursing. 6LegalAug.22
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Notice of formatioN of
Denim & Diamonds, LLC
Article of Organization filed 7/15/2024 with the Secretary of State of NY.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 244 Pomeroy Rd., Franklin, NY 13775. Purpose: all lawful 6LegalAug.29
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Notice of formatioN of FLY CREEK EQUESTRIAN, LLC
Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/22/24. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 311 Ainslie Rd., Richfield Spring, NY 13439, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.29
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Notice of formatioN of STAGECOACH PRESERVE, LLC
Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/15/24. Office location: Otsego County. Princ. office of LLC: 4 International Dr., #224, Rye Brook, NY 10573. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
6LegalAug.29
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: ALFHEIM BOTANICAL LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 23 July 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 405, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalSept.5
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: TAOS MOUNTAIN SPIRIT LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 22 July, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 32, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalSept.5
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: 93NY7 LLC.
Articles of
years later. During three months of record-breaking snowstorms in early 1949, she flew over 150 rescue missions to assist stranded ranchers, sick children and the American Red Cross. The book features illustrations by Will Rogers Medallion Award winner Jeanne Bowman and is published by South Dakota Historical Society Press. For more information or to preorder a copy, visit sdhspress.com.
Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 22 July, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 133, Schenevus, NY 12155. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalSept.5
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Notice of formatioN of a NY professioNaL Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
DR. JEFFREY BAILEY DNP NURSE PRACTIONER IN FAMILY HEALTH PLLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 22 July, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 389 Thurston Hill Rd., Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalSept.5
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: HOLSCHER PROPERTIES LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 24 July, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 155 Peebles Hill Road, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalSept.5
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Notice of formatioN of Dream Mini Mart LLC.
Filed 7/10/24. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 389 Chestnut St, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.
6LegalSept.12
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Notice of formatioN of Shelby Group Enterprises, LLC.
Filed 4/26/24. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail POB 361, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purp: any lawful.
6LegalSept.12
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Notice of formatioN of COMMON HOUSE KITCHEN LLC
Arts. of Org. filed SSNY 7/23/2024. Otsego Co. SSNY designated agent for process & shall mail to ZENBUSINESS INC. 41 STATE ST., #112, ALBANY, NY 12207 General Purpose. 6LegalSept.12
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Notice of adoptioN of resoLUtioN sUbJect to permissiVe refereNdUm
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown, Otsego County, New York at a meeting thereof held on the 8th day of August, 2024, duly adopted pursuant to section 6-C of the General Municipal Law, a resolution subject to permissive referendum, the purpose and effect of which is to authorize an appropriation of $229,800 from Street Improvement Reserves to A-5112-440, to be used for the Elm Street Sidewalk Replacement project. BY ORDER OF THE VILLAGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN, NEW YORK
Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.org (email) 1LegalAug.15
Photo provided LAURA BETH DEAN
Farm Day
Continued from page 5
After more than a decade of growth and change, the FFD event continues to thrive. There is always a new farm to explore and something new to see— no matter how many times you’ve taken part in Family Farm Day.
On Saturday, August 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., more than three dozen farms in Schoharie, Otsego and Delaware counties will participate in this celebration of local agriculture by opening to the public for the 2024 Family Farm Day. Visitors can experience
Helen ‘Betty’ Elizabeth New 1927-2024
ONEONTA—Helen
Elizabeth “Betty” New, 97, passed away at home peaceful and comfortable with her beloved daughter and caregiver, Nancy, at her side, on August 8, 2024.
She was born March 11, 1927 in Hamburg, New York, the youngest daughter of Harry Lyman and Catharine Moore (Allen) Sharp.
Betty met John Gabriel New at Cornell University, where they both received undergraduate degrees. They married on December 22, 1950 at Betty’s family home in Hamburg, then both returned to Cornell to earn master’s degrees.
After that, she taught biology at Liberty High School, and in 1953 they returned to Cornell, where her husband completed his PhD and Betty would jokingly say she completed her PhT (Put Hubby Through.) In 1956, the family moved to Oneonta, where they both became active and well-loved contributors to the community. Betty was a substitute teacher at the Oneonta Junior and Senior high schools and John was a biology professor at SUNY Oneonta. Betty helped to organize the Community Concert series, led 4-H clubs and Girl Scouts, was active in the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society, and contributed wherever she was needed in the community.
She was a dedicated member of the First Church of Christ, Scientist and served as Chaplain at A.O. Fox
the diversity of area farms while supporting local agriculture. FFD offerings vary by farm and include opportunities for visitors to take tours; go for a wagon ride; watch demonstrations; take part in free, hands-on activities; enjoy farm-fresh samples of local foods and beverages; and purchase provisions, gifts, and décor. CCESO encourages participants to visit locally-sourced restaurants, breweries, distilleries, wineries and stores as part of the FFD adventure.
Plan your FFD route at FamilyFarmDay.org or pick up a copy of the “2024 Farm Guide” at your local Cornell
Cooperative Extension office, farmers’ market, or brochure rack. In addition to the interactive map, FFD online resources and social media (follow Family Farm Day on Facebook and Instagram) include information about participating farms, links to farm websites, farm GPS locations, travel directions, photos, and further descriptions about the farms and FFD activities offered.
For everyone’s safety, please adhere to these important Family Farm Day guidelines and etiquette: Visitors are not allowed to bring pets to participating farms, and all visitors must remain in designated
areas while on farm property. And don’t forget to bring coolers or insulated grocery bags to take home your delicious, local, farm-fresh products!
Family Farm Day is an agritourism event produced by Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties in collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension Delaware County. It would not be possible without the continued enthusiasm and participation of local farms and the generous support of event sponsors.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized
OBITUARIES
for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal employment opportunities. Liz Callahan is the executive director of CCESOC.
Mugs
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photography and pursued the craft in his 20s and 30s before gradually losing interest. His return after a 35-year hiatus has been a great success, and he typically participates in two part-time photography shows each month. Kosmer’s recent work has been displayed in galleries across the U.S. and
Europe, including shows in Glasgow and Athens.
“I’m butting up against the 20th-century notion that documentary photography is king,” Kosmer continued. “A lot of photographers are beginning to see that and move in more creative directions now that everyone has a smart phone in their pocket. Who needs another shot of the Tuscan hills? You can still do that kind of thing for personal improvement, but documentary photography just doesn’t have that incomparable power anymore.” For more information on the exhibit, or to view the Mug Shot Project, visit https://johnkosmerphotography.weebly.com/mugshot-project-photos.html.
Hospital for many years, where she was well received. She was giving and kind, showed unconditional love, and was always taking care of others. Her humor lifted many hearts.
Betty and John loved traveling with their children. They spent the summers camping throughout the United States and Canada and, over the years, they explored all of the U.S. National Parks. Their love of natural history led the couple to extend their travel worldwide, including Africa, Iceland, the Falklands and the Galapagos Islands. After her husband passed in 1983, she continued his legacy by teaching his birding class, and by leading trips to Africa as part of the college Experiential Learning Program.
Family was very important to Betty and she was always there to support her children’s activities, including sports and academic and professional pursuits. She traveled often to visit with, and care for, her beloved grandchildren. Her sense of family knew no bounds and she embraced many individuals in her broad sense of family. Her hands and heart were always open to give to others.
Betty was a true homemaker, excellent baker and master gardener. Her family grew up on her homemade baked bread and she kept huge vegetable and flower gardens that many benefited from with fresh, canned, and frozen produce. In 1972, the family purchased a beautiful farm and Betty worked with a retired contractor to build a horse barn and renovate the farmhouse that she and John eventually moved into. She oversaw the
entire property, including care and management of her family and friends’ horses.
Betty especially loved square and round dancing, and sometimes danced five days a week. She and John danced together until his passing, and then she enjoyed both dancing and worldwide travel for 18 years with her partner, Harold Silliman, until his passing.
She is survived by her children, Lois New of Clifton Park, Nancy New of Oneonta, Kenneth (Laurel) New of Fleming Island, Florida and Chris (Alesia) New of Windermere, Florida; grandchildren Kendra, Jared, Cyara, and Julia; sister-in-law Elsa New; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, John New; siblings Ruth Cairns, Frank Sharp, and Elmer Sharp; son-in-law Cecil Lubitz; and brotherin-law Robert New.
A future celebration of life will be planned.
Donations in her honor may be made to the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society, https:// doas.us/donate/. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.lhpfuneralhome.com, the website of Oneonta’s only family-owned funeral home, Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono at 51 Dietz Street.
Barbara Ellen Petersen 1936-2024
RICHFIELD SPRINGS—Barbara Ellen Petersen, 88, of Richfield Springs, New York passed away on Friday, August 2, 2024 at Woodside Hall in Cooperstown, New York in the comfort of her
Dietz Street oneonta, nY 607-432-1511 www.lhpfuneralhome.com
family and staff. Barbara was born on May 3, 1936 in Buffalo, New York. She was adopted at 5 days old to Barbara and Arthur Delventhal of Palisades Park, New Jersey. Barbara went to school in New Jersey and graduated from Leona High School in 1955. After graduation, Barbara married her lifelong love, Edgar W. Petersen. They had met as children in Sunday school and were neighbors for many years.
As Ed was serving in the U.S. Navy at the time, Barbara made her home with her parents for the first years of marriage. Barbara and Ed always wanted a large family and went on to have five children as they made their home in Washington Township, New Jersey. Barbara spent the early part of her life raising their kids. She went on to become licensed to drive a school bus and became their bus driver. She was known as “Irving.” She went on to work at Mercedes Benz of NA as the children grew.
Having purchased property in Richfield Springs in 1968, Ed and Barbara progressively cleared the land and built their own home. They then relocated with the three youngest children in 1979. Barbara retired from Mary Imogene
Bassett Hospital after 25 years in a job she loved and was proud of, in finance as a physician reimbursement analyst. After retirement at 65, she went on to become a Master Gardener and shared her love of nature with others. She was also a great lover of German shepherds, all of whom loved her unconditionally.
With the help of her granddaughter, Lonni, Barbara discovered her biological family, who reside in Oregon. On her 83rd birthday, she flew out to meet them. She cherished these new relationships, especially with her sister, Alice, and niece Terria.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Edgar, daughter Linda deBetz, sons-in-law Ervin deBetz and James Domion, her parents, and brother Warren.
She is survived by her children, Roy Petersen and Kristin Domion of Richfield Springs, Barbara A. Petersen and wife Anne Gadomski
of Cooperstown, and son Kurt and wife Lori Petersen of Morehead City, North Carolina. Her grandchildren include Larissa, Eric, Lonni, Ben, Emma, Kurt Jr., Jessie, and Clayton. Great grandchildren include Jason, Kylee, Wyatt, Evee, Ellie and Lucy.
A Celebration of Life for Barbara will be held on Sunday, August 25 at the Richfield Springs Vets Club starting at noon. All friends and family are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Woodside Hall Activities Fund, 1 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13325 or to German Shepherd Rescue of New York Inc., PO Box 242, Delmar, NY 12054. Inform either facility who the donation is in memory of so they may mail you a donation letter for taxes.
To send online condolences, please visit www. ottmanfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the care of the Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley, New York.
Photo provided HELEN E. NEW
Photo provided BARBARA E. PETERSEN
Cleanup
Cooperstown hauled the majority to the county transfer station, with scrap metal headed to a scrap yard, according to Village Public Works Superintendent Mitch Hotaling.
“Part of [the Village’s] focus is on the lake as the water supply,” said Lord. “They want that trash out of here, so we put it there, they take it out. And they have done that quite consistently over the years, and we’re very grateful for it.”
In wide-ranging conversation at the boathouse following Sunday’s cleanup, OLA members and cleanup day volunteers discussed everything from the importance of getting the word out about events such as Sunday’s to how the cleanup day
has changed over the years (for example, fewer tires nowadays, as they’ve become less commonly used as bumpers on docks). All while making plenty of time to talk about the seen and unseen that affects lake and watershed health: mussels, harmful algae blooms, cyanobacteria, plastics, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances— more commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals.”
As for the materials that can be seen and collected from the lake by concerned citizens, as was the case Sunday, the message from the OLA about its efforts, and what others can do to help, was as clear as much of the lake water appears to be these days.
“This is all to help the health of the lake,” said OLA Director-at-large and cleanup volunteer
Debbie Creedon. “We can’t get rid of the quagga mussels, we can’t get rid of the zebra mussels, we can’t get rid of the HABs that happen. But we’re doing our best, and we’re trying to get the message out to people.”
Three decades ago, local citizens mobilized to help bring attention to serious issues facing the health and future of Otsego Lake. On a separate track from those efforts, the OLA has existed since 2002 “to educate, advocate, and actively participate in protecting the health, beauty, and well-being of Otsego Lake by facilitating the implementation of the Otsego Lake Watershed Management Plan.” That plan, first drafted in 1998 and updated in 2007, is now nearly 20 years old.
In the 17 years since the plan’s last revision, much has changed. To name just a few examples, Otsego Lake has seen the introduction of zebra and quagga mussels, and increased levels of cyanobacteria and instances of HABs. Additionally, much more has generally been learned about pollutants due to common and ubiquitous materials such as plastics and PFAs.
The next update to the lake’s watershed management plan has been underway for about a year, said Lord, before he underscored the inherent challenge in developing a plan for a body of water that is eight miles long and contains 110 billion gallons of water, and exists within a watershed encompassing 74 square miles.
historyoftheTownofButternutsand theVillageofGilbertsville. But for the Gilbertsville area’s strong resistance to a long-standing ArmyCorpsofEngineersplantodam up the area, the tour would not have takenplaceatall,as,likethesadfate of some Catskill Mountain towns, Gilbertsville and other nearby towns and villages would today be under
“The watershed plan is a consensus document,” said Lord. “There are five municipalities in the watershed, and getting them all to agree on something is no small feat.”
historianswhohasdonesuchamazing worktobringlocalhistorytotheforefront.Sheisoneofthoseforcesevery communitywishesithad,”Falksaid.
for her leadership and dedica tion to preserving and celebrating the
Efforts to recognize the rights of environmental entities like lakes, rivers, and watersheds have become more and more common, as socalled “Rights of Nature” measures are being discussed at municipal, county, or state levels. Two such measures— one a bill introduced in the State Assembly to recognize the rights of the Great Lakes, and another a resolution passed by the City of Kingston to recognize the rights of the Hudson River Watershed—have been discussed in New York over the past couple of years, while similar efforts have been undertaken in states such as Florida and Pennsylvania, and in other countries.
Otsego Lake’s clean, pristine waters and natural beauty were made internationally famous in the first half of the 1800s, featuring in two of James Fenimore Cooper’s “Leatherstocking Tales.”
The BFS’ web page on the history of Otsego Lake begins in the 1600s. But Otsego Lake is thousands and thousands of years old, and people lived in sustainable and respectful interrelationship with that body of water for thousands and thousands of years prior to Euro-American
settlement.
By contrast, today’s ecological and humanhealth issues that are derived from environmental sources can reasonably be connected to the cumulative and ongoing effects of just 200-plus years of postindustrialization and Euro-American cultural norms being the dominant, overpowering force affecting this land and its ecosystems.
Alex Hamer is a Central New York photographer who spent parts of 2016 documenting the protests of the Dakota Access Pipeline that threatened the water supply for the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota. Hamer, whose mother was Oneida, lives in historical Onondaga homelands. He was at the Fenimore Art Museum this past Saturday, August 10 to participate in the “Celebrate Native America” and Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) history event held alongside Otsego Lake.
In Hamer’s opinion, a healthy future depends on finding a longterm balance between embracing an understanding of the interconnectedness and stewardship of the water, land, and environment, and in supporting those taking steps to do good in whatever way they are trying to do good in the moment.
“To have a healthy relationship with the environment would mean to be mindful every day of how our actions affect the environment,” said Hamer. “This means different things to different people… Much like plants, an idea comes from a seed. The community cleanup project around Otsego Lake could be looked at as a seed. Neighbors engaging in a goal to make even the surface area better could engage young minds to want to look deeper. Which, as we know, is where many problems lie, in what we cannot see.”
Hamer later added, in a nod to the OLA’s efforts, “It’s important to positively acknowledge that there are people working to do better, and if we don’t try and use a good mind, it can have an impact when we interact with those that are fighting for the same goal.”
The OLA’s annual lake cleanup day is one part of a larger effort to protect the lake and its watershed. Such work takes planning, effort and effective communication in order to generate widespread participation in the community.
“We anticipate doing this next year, and we keep that in mind and prepare,” said OLA Treasurer Betty VanHeusen. “We’ll be preparing in the winter for six months ahead, so we ask that people along the lake prepare six months ahead, too, and start to get their stuff together.”
When it comes to protecting Otsego Lake and its watershed, and all of the life that is supported by the lake ecosystem, perhaps it’s the simplest piece of
advice that should be heeded in the here and now. Such advice was offered as volunteers were wrapping up their day of work at the lake, and it applies to both what we can see, and what we can’t see.
“Think about what you’re throwing in the lake,” said Creedon. “Does it belong there?”
Continued from page 1
kitchen and invented an organic kosher marshmallow crème that is gluten-free, nutfree, dairy-free, and vegetarian.
Condon took several years off when her children were still young and began to grow the business in earnest about seven or eight years ago.
Today she employs 10 people and manufactures 12 flavors of marshmallow crème. Toonie Moonie can be found nationally in grocery stores including Whole Foods and on Amazon.
Vanilla is Condon’s most popular flavor, she said. Seasonal flavors such as maple and pumpkin spice are in demand, and many consumers request peppermint-flavored Toonie Moonie for their holiday fudge recipes.
Vêsucré opened for business in October 2022.
Hartmann said, “I was put on a vegan diet by my doctor. Newly vegan, I couldn’t find a frozen dessert I liked.”
So, she made her own.
Vêsucré manufactures a plant-based, frozen dessert that is free of dairy, soy, gluten, and refined sugar. Hartmann describes the frozen treat “as a cross between ice cream and crème brûlée.”
Hartmann has been a vegan— a person who does not eat any food derived from animals— for four years.
“I am a foodie. For me, food is an art form. I wanted a happy dessert,” she explained.
Sucre means sugar in French. Hartmann combined “Ve” for vegan with “sucre” for sweet.
Vêsucré is made with oat milk and is dairy free. Since it cannot be called
ice cream, Hartmann named it “Plant de Crème.”
She said, “I come from a dairy family. My parents are my test tasters. If they like it, I know I am on to something.”
Hartmann was born and raised in Oneonta. She returned home two years ago from New York City to care for her aging parents. Today, she is on a mission to educate consumers that you can obtain protein without eating meat. In fact, her plant-based product is packed with 10 grams of protein in a single serving.
About 4 percent of the U.S. population, or 9.7 million people, are vegans. Vêsucré caters to consumers with dietary restrictions and also people who are plant forward, who want to eat less meat. ‘Peace on Earth, Desserts for All’ is the motto of Hartmann’s business.
“You do not have to be vegan to know something tastes good,” she said. Hartmann partnered with The Arc Otsego and Springbrook to provide work opportunities for local individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
“At this point in my career, I want to be inclusive,” Hartmann said. “I‘ve had folks with disabilities in my life. Helping them find work and obtain skills that can light them up is so satisfying.”
Hartmann is proud that her employee, Gwen Calchi, developed the company’s “milk” chocolate frozen treat.
“We are a zero-waste company on a sustainability mission. Our main ingredient is oat milk. [Using] the left-over oat pulp, we turn the residual oats into brownies.”
Hartmann emphasized, “If you are a food maker in New York, there are a lot of resources available. For example, Grow New York has an annual competition. The top prize is $1,000,000.00.” She also said, “Oneonta is a very friendly place to be a food maker, especially a start-up.”
“The idea of 300 women in the water, swimming in the lake, sounded like fun,” she said.
Curtis regularly swims three or four times a week at the Oneonta Family YMCA and Farwell swims at the pool at Cooperstown’s Clark Sports Center every other day. Curtis, who has been swimming since age 5, fondly recalls the “great municipal pool” in her hometown of Bainbridge.
Although both women are lifelong swimmers, open water swimming is a first for them. To prepare for Sunday’s event, they swam in both Otsego and Gilbert lakes. They also had to build up stamina.
“The first month, I thought it was great that I could do 10 laps. Today, I’m up to 40 laps,” Curtis said.
“I always knew I could do it physically,” said Farwell, who on March 30 swam 53 laps for her 53rd birthday.
“I was more apprehensive about open water swimming. The water comes in your mouth. You can see the bottom, then you can’t see the bottom,” she said.
Curtis and Farwell thought the event was “very well organized, with safety being a priority.” The swimmers were organized by “pods,” of which there were approximately 30. Each pod contained subgroups, or “waves.”
Curtis and Farwell were in the fifth wave of the 13th pod. The first wave took off at 7:10 a.m. Farwell and Curtis jumped in around 8:30 a.m., finishing up around 9:45 a.m., Curtis said. The swimmers were accompanied by a flotilla of 100 kayaks, both guiding and protecting them.
Heavy rains from Hurricane Debby nearly caused cancellation of the event, and the storm did have an impact on the lake’s conditions.
“The water was choppier than expected and there was a certain amount of debris in it, but it was very doable, and enjoyable,” Farwell stated the day after the swim.
“It feels like an accomplishment. I’m happy to have done it,” she said.
On Monday, Curtis’ excitement could still be felt when contacted by phone.
“The swim was great. Michele stayed about 15 feet ahead of me and I kept watching her. It felt great getting out of the water. We were met with great big towels right away and people were cheering. I had a sense of empowerment, being with so many other women,” Curtis said.
After the swim, breakfast was waiting for them on the lawn of the Ithaca Yacht Club, where a band was playing and recognitions were given for various levels of fundraising.
“It was quite festive,” Curtis said.
For her fundraising efforts, Farwell appealed through both e-mail and Facebook, providing
the website for Women Swimmin’. Together, mother and daughter raised $3,266.71, exceeding their original goals of $500.00 each by a combined 306 percent. The overall event took in close to $640,000.00, well surpassing its stated goal of $500,000.00.
Curtis and Farwell are grateful for the donations made to them for the swim and want people to know that donations may still be made at the Women Swimmin’ website, https://secure. qgiv.com/event/womenswimmin/. They also encouraged donations to hospices of individual choice. Hospice care for this area is Helios Care, formerly known as Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, headquartered in Oneonta. It may be accessed at www. helioscare.org or on Facebook by searching Helios Care.
Both women are up for a repeat performance.
“I’m going to do it for as long as I can. I’d love to have people think they can do it regardless of their age,” said Curtis, who turned 75 in January of this year.
Farwell would like for the 2025 swim to include her daughter Maya, 20, who is studying written arts at Bard College.
“We want a threegeneration swim,” Farwell said.
Vapes
Continued from page 4
see tobacco use in person or on screens, the more likely they will use it and become long-term addicts. Young children watching teens or older adults use the gamed vapes will be drawn to the lights, bells and whistles, splashy colors, and sweet flavors. They will see vaping and playing games as delicious and fun.
Nicotine is not a benign drug. It harms the parts of the adolescent brain that control attention, learning, mood and impulse control. In addition, teens who use nicotine are at higher risk for addictions to other drugs and becoming
cigarette smokers. Most youth and young adults who vape want to quit but think they can’t. The New York State Quitline offers an effective cessation texting program, “Drop the Vape.” Text DropTheVape to 88709 and receive free, 24/7, anonymous and confidential support to quit vaping. For additional information, or if you have questions, please email Jennifer.Hill003@ sphp.com
Jennifer Hill is community engagement coordinator for TobaccoFree Communities: Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie.
Letters
Continued from page 4 of credit to for helping guide me as a student: my mother and my late grandmother, both of whom have been steadfast in my efforts to get my diploma and to be in my life in general, with their advice to their guidance. Thank you, ladies. John H. G. Hamill IV Oneonta
ADDITIONAL NEWS ITEMS CAN BE FOUND EACH WEEK ONLINE AT ALLOTSEGO.COM
Movie Filmed in Coop To Open
COOPERSTOWN—“Stream,” a horror film partially shot in Cooperstown, will premiere with a limited run in theaters on Wednesday, August 21. It features horror icons including Jeffrey Combs (“ReAnimator”) and Danielle Harris (“Halloween”). For more information or to find a screening, visit the Stream Movie Franchise Facebook page.
SQSPCA Forum Is Thursday
ONEONTA—Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals will hold a Community Forum at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 15. The event will highlight recent action by the SQSPCA and other animal welfare organizations in the area, such as Friends of the Feral. There will also be an extended period for community questions, comments and discussion. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.sqspca.org.
►Fri., August 16
RECYCLING
8-11 a.m. “Otsego County’s Household Hazardous Waste Day 2024: Unadilla.” Safely dispose of household hazardous wastes, from paint to batteries and more.
Full list available online.
Unadilla Highway Building, 216 County Highway 3, Unadilla. (607) 5474225. Also held 8/17
8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Meadows Office Complex, Cooperstown.
KNITTING CIRCLE
9:30 a.m. to noon. Bring a knit project and work with the group. Beginners welcome. Held every Friday. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.
QUILTING 10 a.m. to noon. “Students: Turn Art into a Quilt.” Free; registration required. Open to students 8+. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 4413111.
SUPPORT 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Half off everything. Continues 8/17. Helios Care Thrift Shop & Boutique, Price Chopper Plaza, 5626 State Highway 7, Oneonta. (607) 432-5335.
CONCERT
10:30-11:30 a.m. “Family Music Fest with Justin Jay Hines, Percussionist & Teaching Artist: Part 1.” Presented by the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival. Free; registration required. Origins Cafe, 558 Beaver Mead-
ow Road, Cooperstown. Part 2 held at 3 p.m. at The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. Visit cooperstownmusicfest.org
FOOD 11-11:30 a.m.
Grab-and-go lunches for adults available. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Presented by Catholic Charities and First United Presbyterian Church of Oneonta in Neahwa Park, Oneonta. nyconnects@ otsegocounty.com.
LIBRARY 1 p.m.
“Homeschool Hangout.” Join homeschool families for stories, activities, crafts and learning. Recommended for ages 5-18. Held each Friday. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
MUSEUM 2 p.m.
“Otsego: A Meeting Place—Guided Tours.” Included with admission. Also held 11 a.m. on 8/17. Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.
LIBRARY 3:30 p.m.
“Frog Day.” Learn about frogs with a science teacher, then craft a jumping frog with an art teacher. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309.
CONCERT 4-6 p.m.
“Summer Concert Series Under the Tent: Off The Record.” Fees apply; open to the public. Includes local crafters and vendors. Light refreshments available. Oneonta Gathering Place, 5506 State Route 7, Oneonta. (607) 267-4732.
CONCERT 7 p.m.
“The Kings of Country: A Honky Tonk Tribute.” Featuring Trigger Finger. Fees apply. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 4312080.
THEATRE 7:30 p.m.
“An Iliad” by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare, based on Homer’s “Iliad.” Directed by Lauren Bone Noble. Also showing at 3 and 7:30 p.m. on 8/17 and 5 p.m. on 8/18. Free admission, donations accepted. Franklin Stage Company, 25 Institute Street, Franklin. (607) 829-3700.
►sAt., August 17
PANCAKE BREAK -
FAST 7:30-11:30 a.m.
Fly-in Pancake Breakfast. All-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, real maple syrup, sausage and beverages. $9/adult to support the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Department. Cooperstown/Westville Airport, 866 State Route 166, Cooperstown.
SALE 8 a.m. “East End Oneonta Garage Sale.” Presented by Destination Oneonta. (607) 376-7599.
BENEFIT 9 a.m. to noon. Pancake breakfast and corn hole tournament. Admission by donation (monetary or unopened cleaning/hygiene products) to benefit the Hunger Coalition of Otsego County. Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Road, Laurens. (607) 432-2114.
GILBERTSVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m. to noon. Corner of State Route 51 and Commercial Street, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2305.
FESTIVAL 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. “Hartwick Fire
Department Field Day.”
Live music, food, tractor pull, fireworks at dusk. Hartwick Fire Department Co. #1, Wells Avenue, Hartwick. (607) 2937741.
FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fresh vegetables, local meats and handmade crafts. Bring the kids for Crafts and Fun with Miss Jen, to celebrate Honeybee Day while the adults shop. Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101 Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. (607) 5478881.
FEST Noon to 6 p.m.
“Butternut Valley Summer Harvest Festival.” Music, arts, crafts, petting goats, face painting, more. Guy Rathbun Park, Morris. info@butternutvalleyalliance.org.
CELEBRATION
1:30-4 p.m. “Atwell Day at the Fly Creek Grange.” Celebrating Jim Atwell’s birthday and remembering Anne Atwell’s legacy, featuring Anne’s drawings and paintings. Light snacks and beverages available. Fly Creek Grange, 208 Cemetery Road, Fly Creek.
EXERCISE 2 p.m.
“Easy, 15 Minute Full Body Stretch.” Demonstration/explanation of stretches that can be done sitting or standing. Participate or watch and listen. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Route 11, Hartwick.
WORKSHOP 2-5 p.m.
“Process Art Workshop: Braiding Corn, Sweet Grass and Dogbane.” Presented in partnership with a Native interpreter and includes a gathering, teatime, story sharing, and communal participation. No experience necessary. $25/non-member. Fenimore Art Museum,
5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5471400.
PERFORMANCE
4-6 p.m. “Tea with Eleanor Roosevelt.” Tea party with actress Jane Von Boskirk portraying Eleanor Roosevelt in her one-woman show, “Across a Barrier of Fear.” Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 5475098. Also held 8/18 at 4 p.m. at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center.
OUTDOORS 6 p.m. “Bingo, Bonfire, and S’mores.” Free. Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Road, Laurens. (607) 432-2114.
CELEBRATION 7 p.m.
“Gilbertsville Fire Department 150th Celebration.” Parade, fireworks, refreshments, raffle, more. Gilbertsville Historic District.
►sun., August 18
CONCERT 2 p.m.
Memorial Concert for Ken Held. Featuring local musicians. Free. Major’s Inn, 104 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville.
CONCERT 3 p.m. Balourdet Quartet performs works by Haydn, Bartók, Smetana. Presented by the Friends of Music of Stamford. Admission by donation. First Presbyterian Church of Stamford, 96 Main Street, Stamford. Visit friendsmusic.org
FUNDRAISER
6-8 p.m. “Feeding Pets of the Homeless Week Bingo.” Donate pet food and have some fun. Requires minimum food/ beverage purchase to participate. Roots Public Social Club, 177 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 349-3842.
DRUM CIRCLE
6 p.m. “Cherry Valley Drum Circle.” Held Sundays. Presented by The Telegraph School at the Cherry Valley Gazebo. (607) 264-3785.
►Mon., August 19
PLAY & LEARN
10 a.m. Guided sensory learning for children aged 5 and under. Held each Monday. Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.
CONNECTIONS Noon. “Share the Bounty of the Flower Garden” with Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail. com.
SENIOR MEALS
Noon. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal each Monday and Wednesday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $10.60 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of egg salad cold plate, broccoli salad, corn salad and apple Brown Betty. Cherry Valley Facilities Corporation Café, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 547-6454.
SUMMER SUNDAY
1-3 p.m. “The Little Red Caboose.” Presented by Jim Loudon. Swart-Wilcox House Museum, Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 287-7011.
POTTERY 1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters are invited to work on personal projects and hone their skills. No instruction provided. $30/session. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 6-9 p.m. on Thursdays. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown.
SUMMER CONCERT 5:30 p.m. Small Town Big Band. Free. Dinner available for purchase. Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377.
CONCERT
7 p.m.
“Music at Meadow Links: The Tom Hovey Summer Music Festival.” Contrasonics. Free; all welcome. Held rain or shine. Meadow Links Golf Pavilion, 476 County Route 27, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-1646.
