Hometown Oneonta 08-24-23

Survey Results Reveal Public’s Thoughts on Revitalization

By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN

On August 11, the results of the Village of Cooperstown New York Forward Community Survey were released. The report, which can be found in its entirety on the village website, was prepared by Highland Planning.

The online survey—intended to gauge community members’ perceptions of opportunities within the Village of Cooperstown in order to inform the $4.5 million funding investment by the NY Forward program— was hosted on Survey Monkey from June 19 to August 7 and received 162 responses. The survey was promoted through the Cooperstown website, a public meeting on July 11, a pop-up event at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, flyer distribution, social media posts and in “The Freeman’s Journal” and its sister publications. There were 11 questions and, according to Highland Planning, the survey took approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh said she was happy with the results.

“I would always love to see more input than 162 responses, however, [the survey] was open for seven weeks and strongly promoted, so there was plenty of opportunity. I found the comments we received to be very helpful,” Tillapaugh added.

The majority of survey respondents (76.25%) came from the 13326 zip code. Close to half said they visit downtown

Continued on page 9

Young Author Holds Book Signing

ONEONTA

Edyn Iteafa Ebikoboere Aiyemo, a 12-year-old student at Oneonta Middle School and the author of the children’s book “The Tale of the World with Four Colors,” held a book signing at the Oneonta Starbucks on Thursday, August 3. The event was sponsored by Starbucks in collaboration with A.T. Socio-Judicial Consulting.

Aiyemo wrote the book at age 6, encouraged by her mother, Ari NikiTobi. It follows a woman who finds herself an outsider in a world defined by color preference and who learns to forgive after attempting to take vengeance.

“It was really nice to meet everyone,” Edyn said.

The signing was attended by many local notables, including Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek and Otsego County Board of Representatives Chair David Bliss. Edyn’s former fourth-grade teacher at Greater Plains Elementary School and her uncle, an appellate judge in Nigeria, also attended.

“This is a world of redemption and heroism, but also of reassessment and recalibration,” Drnek said in a release about the signing event. “Seen through the lens of a first grader, it’s the sweet story of lives lived in colorful harmony, protected by the least likely. Surely, there’s a lesson in there.”

State, County Struggle with Low Reading Test Scores

By DARLA M. YOUNGS OTSEGO COUNTY

New York State has recently come under fire for fourth grade reading scores that fall short of the national average. Equally as troubling, fourth grade reading scores for children in New York dropped six points last year, double the national average, on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. According to a recent article in “The New York Times,” that’s the one test that allows for comparisons among states. New York was tied for 32nd in the nation in reading test results.

The NAEP reading assessment was administered in 2022 to representative samples of fourth- and eighthgrade students in the nation, states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and 26 participating large urban districts. It included literary and informational texts to assess students’ reading comprehension skills.

Thirty states and jurisdictions showed a decrease in fourth-grade reading average scores from 2019 levels, while 22 saw no significant change. No states or jurisdictions scored higher than the 2019 figures. The average reading score for fourthgrade students in 2022 was three points lower compared to 2019, the

Otsego Abroad Cooperstown Resident Returns from Six Years

By WRILEY NELSON STRASBOURG, FRANCE

in France

Mae

Loewenguth of Cooperstown graduated from the Institut Européen de Journalisme with a bachelor’s degree in journalism in April. In spite of a distinct lack of support from xenophobic professors, Loewenguth got through the prestigious institute with flying colors while immersing herself in one of Europe’s most culturally significant cities.

Loewenguth has spent six of the last seven years in France. She spent her junior year away from Cooperstown Central School on Rotary exchange.

“I loved my time there,” she said. “When I got back for senior year, I wasn’t sure about college. I didn’t have any strong ideas about where I wanted to go or what I wanted to study. I wound up literally Googling ‘how

to live in France for free,’ and it said to look into being an au pair.”

She wound up spending a year looking after the young sons of two leading French journalists. The boys’ mother, whom Loewenguth left unnamed, is a well-known

TV meteorologist, while their father hosts a radio show. Loewenguth spoke highly of the family and of the cultural institution of the au pair position, which allowed her to explore much of the country with the family while she earned a living caring for the children.

“I got to see a lot of their work as journalists and I got to meet many ordinary people around the country,” she recalled. “I realized I liked listening to people’s stories.”

The parents helped point her in the direction of France’s many journalism schools.

Loewenguth wound up applying to the prestigious IEJ in Strasbourg, a city of about 300,000 just across the Rhine River from Germany. Strasbourg is a historic melting pot of cultural interaction and political strife between the French-speaking and

Continued on page 11

Photo provided Edyn Aiyemo holds a signed copy of her book while celebrating with her mother, her brother Ethan, to whom the book is dedicated, and Ron and Pam Zerbe.

Photo by Mae Loewenguth

View of downtown Strasbourg across the Rhine.

Hartwick College, SUNY Oneonta Partner on Nursing Program

ONEONTA

Hartwick College

President Darren Reisberg and SUNY Oneonta President

Alberto J. F. Cardelle put pen to paper on August 16, approving a first-ofits-kind nursing articulation agreement between the two institutions.

This partnership allows SUNY Oneonta PreNursing Advising Track students to transfer seamlessly into Hartwick’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program after they complete their first two years at SUNY Oneonta. One-

Hart students begin their phase at Hartwick in the summer immediately following year two at SUNY Oneonta.

The signing took place in the state–of–the–art Clark Nursing Simulation Laboratory on the Hartwick College campus. Signatories on the One-Hart articulation agreement include Laurel Bongiorno, vice president for academic affairs and provost, and Patricia grust, chair and clinical associate professor of nursing, from Hartwick, and Enrique Morales-Diaz,

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provost and vice president for academic affairs, Tracy Allen, dean of the School of Sciences, and Tami LaPilusa, program coordinator of pre-health professions, from SUNY Oneonta.

“This is a historic moment as it is the first nursing articulation agreement of its kind between the two institutions,” said Hartwick President Darren Reisberg. “We both recognize the severe nursing shortage this region is facing. And by working together, Hartwick and SUNY Oneonta are ensuring that a steady stream of highly qualified nurses is graduating, entering the workforce immediately prepared to contribute, and serving to boost the region’s economic vitality.”

“We are thrilled to be part of this historic collaboration,” said Cardelle. “As anchor

educational institutions in the region, SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College have a tremendous opportunity to work with our community partners to create pathways and pipelines that will not only serve our students but also make our whole region stronger.”

One-Hart is open to SUNY Oneonta students who are first-time, matriculated first-year or transfer students who enter with fewer than 24 college credits. It is not open to students who were previously matriculated at SUNY Oneonta. Students in One-Hart must earn a minimum of C in all prerequisite courses and an overall gPA of 3.0 to remain in the program. These students may also be eligible for Hartwick’s HartLand Promise initiative, which offers a tuition cost

comparable to a four-year public college or university in New York State.

“Nurses are a vital component of our healthcare delivery system and the education nursing students receive at Hartwick College, through the state-ofthe-art Clark Nursing Simulation Laboratory, is second to none,” said state Senator Peter Oberacker. “With SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College joining forces on the One-Hart collaboration, more well-qualified nurses will be field-ready sooner and able to help halt the nursing shortage we face here in New York State.”

Built on the longstanding relationship between Hartwick and Bassett Healthcare Network, the program will offer One-Hart students in their final semester at Hartwick the opportunity to interview

for an RN position within the Bassett Healthcare Network.

“The One-Hart articulation agreement is a wonderful partnership between SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College. It shows us how the public and private institutions can work together for the common good, while advancing educational experiences for students,” said Assemblyman Brian Miller. “This is an important step in addressing the critical nursing shortage we are experiencing. This collaboration is just the start of what’s going to be great in Oneonta.”

The signing of OneHart is particularly meaningful this year as Hartwick College’s nursing program celebrates its 80th anniversary of preparing the next generation of nurses. The One-Hart articulation agreement goes into effect September 1, 2023.

Coop Cyclist Wins Masters Men Time Trial

By DARLA M. YOUNgS MIDDLEFIELD

The New York State Bicycle Racing Association held its 2023 New York State Time Trial Championship races on Saturday, August 19 on a new course along State Route 166. More than 100 riders from all across New York State gathered at the Cooperstown-Westville Airport starting point, hosted by Central New York Cycling. Riders competed in multiple categories and distances.

Local rider Brian White of Cooperstown placed first in the Masters Men 55-59 division with a time of 00:56:55.

Charles Hollister of Oneonta, representing the Laborers Local 785 team,

placed fourth in the Cat 4, Cat 5 and Citizen Men race, and Nick Suozzo of Sherburne placed fifth in the Masters Men 65-69 division.

“I was very pleased with my win in the Masters category,” White said in an e-mail. “The Masters field is subdivided into five-year age brackets starting at 35 years old. So, 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+ and 55+. All of these groups compete in the 40K event. There are 60+ groups that ride a 20K course.

“In the 40K Masters groups, I actually had the fastest time of all riders. I had not ridden a time trial since 2001, but given that the race was so local I decided to ride and support the event.

I spent the past month getting myself—and my 25-year-old time trial bike—prepared for the event. I hadn’t ridden a single mile on that bike since I rode three 40K time trials in October 2001. given this, winning against a strong group of Masters riders was a

welcome surprise.”

“Thanks to NYSBRA for their support, and our volunteers and USA Cycling officials who made the day a huge success. We were flying!” said Race Director Peter Martin of CNYC.

“It was great to be able to have a state-level event run locally. Many thanks to Peter for taking on the task of bringing bike racing to Otsego County,” said White. “It would be great to see more events and hopefully to get more members of our community out there on bikes, getting exercise and enjoying our beautiful surroundings.”

Martin said feedback from the exhausted riders was very positive.

“The course was a bit slow, given the somewhat hilly profile, with more than 800 feet of total climbing,” White recalled of his ride. “The road surface was mildly rough, it was very windy, and this course was about one kilometer longer than the typical 40K course. That said, two of the younger guys gave truly outstanding performances, with the fastest rider having a high 50-minute time and the second place with a 52-minute time. Under the conditions on Saturday, these are really phenomenal performances and my hat is off to both of them for stellar performances and examples of really elite-level cycling.”

There were three distances raced on Saturday, according to White—a 10K event for kids, a 20K event for

Photo provided Cooperstown’s Brian White enjoys his time atop the podium after winning the Masters Men 55-59 NYSBRA Time Trial. White is flanked by second-place finisher Ronald Malone of Long Beach (left) and Michael Morris of Manlius, who finished third.

Town Talk

Town of Oneonta

Emily Morell, a dedicated member of Girl Scout Troop 30296 in Oneonta, has successfully accomplished a significant milestone by completing her Girl Scout Gold Award project. The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement within the Girl Scouts organization, showcasing the remarkable dedication and determination of young individuals to make a positive impact on their communities.

Emily Morell’s journey in Girl Scouts spans an impressive 14 years, during which she has not only demonstrated her commitment to the organization but has also achieved the Bronze and Silver awards, both of which are prerequisites for pursuing the Gold Award. Through her involvement with the Scouts, Emily has not only gained valuable life skills but has also forged enduring friendships.

Recognizing the importance of community enhancement and inclusivity, Emily’s Gold Award project centered around the expansion and enhancement of the existing pavilion at the Greater Plains Elementary School’s Town Pool area.

“I approached the Town Board when I started looking for a Gold Award project, and they mentioned that the building at the town pool needed some improvements and maintenance. They said that it needed some paint and more shade in the area. I was happy to help and I hope the community enjoys the space,” Morell said.

The project involved extending the pavilion by 8 feet on each side, providing additional space for community members to gather, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.

Furthermore, the project involved the installation of two new rows of benches within the pavilion, and notably, one bench specially designated for individuals with disabilities. This thoughtful addition, placed closer to the pool area, aims to create a more accessible and welcoming environment for all members of the community. Alongside the structural enhancements, the team undertook a revitalization effort by painting the existing building and pavilion, breathing new life into the community space.

“We are immensely proud of the work Emily and her team have done,” said Randal I. Mowers, Oneonta town supervisor. “Her dedication to community improvement and inclusivity provides us with a shining example of good citizenship.”

The completion of Emily Morell’s Gold Award project marks not only a personal accomplishment but a significant contribution to the Oneonta community. Her efforts stand as a testament to the positive impact that young individuals can have when they combine their passion with action.

Emily is the daughter of David and Susan Morell. Susan is also the Troop 30296 leader.

Submitted by the Town of Oneonta.

SQSPCA Receives Petco Grant

COOPERSTOWN

The Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has received a $3,500.00 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love, officials announced on Wednesday, August 2. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $350 million in adoption and other animal welfare efforts, with over 6.7 million animals adopted.

“Our investment in Susquehanna SPCA is part of more than $15 million in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love.

SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes said, “This investment specifically supports our foster program and will help us attain our goal of increasing the numbers of cats and dogs placed in foster homes this year by 50 percent over past years. A robust foster program allows us to free up shelter space for animals requiring immediate rescue, medical and housing services, and contributes to greater numbers of adoptions, a key aspect of our mission. Foster families are a vital part of our operations and provide important pre-adoption care for some of our most vulnerable animals, such as neonatal kittens and puppies or animals with specific medical, social or housing needs.”

Haynes continued, “The expansion of our foster program, encouraged by Petco Love support, enables more families to become foster parents by helping to remove financial and geographic barriers to participation. There are no out-of-pocket costs for foster families, as all food, medicine, and equipment needs are provided by the shelter and we can now offer transportation services to and from the shelter.”

Haynes noted that foster families have access to 24/7 veterinary telehealth services and a public-access Facebook discussion group. To become part of the SQSPCA’s foster program, call (607) 547-8111. Subscribe to AllOtsego.com for additional news content each week. Your annual subscription now through September 30 can also support one of four Otsego County nonprofits. Visit https://www.allotsego.com/summer-subscription-drive/

Photo provided

Emily Morell with Oneonta Town Board members Brett Holleran and Kim Fierke.

HOMETOWN Views

A-4 HOMETOWN ONEONTA THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 2023

EDITORIaL

Johnny Needs to Read

Recently it has come to light that the fourth grade reading scores for children in New York have dropped at least six points, double the national average, on the test that allows for comparisons among the states. And that comparison puts our state—among, as we know, the largest—at number 32 in the nation for child literacy. New York is in the bottom half, and most reports concur that the state is not moving fast enough to remedy its literacy crisis, that is, through the introduction of new teaching materials to address many students’ differing needs and advanced training for teachers and principals rooted in the contemporary science of how children learn. New York, once a national leader in education reform, has not entered the 21st century, and literacy in New York, across the board, is suffering.

Students who struggle with literacy, and learning, at an early age continue to struggle throughout their school years because they do not have the same foundation of understanding and breadth of knowledge to build upon as their more literate peers. This very often translates to below-average, poor literacy levels in higher grades and into adulthood. Illiteracy also is a major factor in whether adolescents graduate from high school; in fact, one in six drops out each year.

But it’s worse. Childhood literacy efforts are essential to reducing the rates of adult illiteracy. Over 50% of Americans have not read a book this year; 22% haven’t read one in three years; 14% simply cannot read. The global illiteracy rate is 12%; this country ranks 125 out of 194 countries. India has the highest percentage of population that reads books; and, for the record, the Bible, the “Selected Works of Mao Tse-Tung,” and the Harry Potter series are the most read. Worse still, 21% of adults in this country are illiterate, and 59% of our population have a literacy level below the 6th grade. California has the lowest literacy rate, 76.9%, followed closely by New York (77.9%), Florida (80.3%), Texas (81%) and New Jersey (83.1%) while, on the other hand, New Hampshire stands at the top, with a 94.2% literacy rate, and Minnesota (94%), North Dakota (93.7%), Vermont (93.4%) and South Dakota (93%) are close behind.

Literacy is the ability to use printed and written information to function in society, to achieve one’s goals, and to develop one’s knowledge and potential. In the 19th century, literacy rates in the United States were relatively high; in 1875 that rate was 80%. The rate began to decline in the 1970s, as the country and its public schools became less inclusive.

In the American job market, illiteracy leads to unemployment and low-paying positions. In the political arena, basic literacy, which enhances citizenship and community, is essential for a well-functioning democracy; without the underlying skills and intelligence that enable people to work together, a democracy lacks the ability to defend itself as a ruling system. In the words of Frederick Douglass, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”

Come on everyone, teach Johnny to read.

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.

‘Press Release’ Paints Disturbing Picture

Remember “The War of the Worlds”?

The 1938 Halloween episode of a radio series directed and narrated by Orson Welles, “The Mercury Theatre on the Air,” featured an adaptation of H.G. Wells’ science fiction novel, “The War of the Worlds.” Performed and broadcast live at 8 p.m. on October 30 of that year over the CBS Radio Network, the episode is famous for inciting a panic when some members of the listening audience were convinced that a Martian invasion was underway.

Iron String Press was the recipient last Monday, August 14 of a mysterious brown clasp envelope left in the vestibule at 21 Railroad Avenue. Inside was a two-page press release bearing the logo “Crumhorn2025,” along with a rough aerial map of Otsego County’s Crumhorn Mountain.

Our readers will remember that Camp Henderson Scout Reservation on Crumhorn Lake in the Town of Milford is currently for sale, collateral damage resulting from of a flood of sexual abuse lawsuits which led the Boy Scouts of America to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February of 2020.

One of the largest undeveloped tracts of land remaining in Otsego County, the Camp Henderson property—668 acres of forests and wetlands housing the former scout camp—is the focus of ongoing preservation efforts by the Otsego Land Trust and a group of private citizens.

The headline of the document we received, purportedly on behalf of a group identifying itself as Crumhorn2025, read: “Entertainment Empire Plots Plans for Otsego Mountain Development.”

Now, unsubstantiated rumors have been floating around Otsego County for some time regarding possible purchase of the scout camp property for development of a casino. Because of this, we experienced a brief “War of the Worlds” moment. Following calls and e-mails to the Town of Milford and upon reading the full press release, we recognized it for what it can surely only be—satire.

“Entertainment Empire Consultant” Henry Diver, listed as the contact for further information, does not seem to exist. There’s an e-mail @yahoo.com with an auto reply: “Hello. Diver here. I’m in an acquisitions strategy session in Portland, Oregon, through 08-17-2023 with limited access to e-mail, but I assure you I am

Basile Best for Clerk Position

checking my account as frequently as time permits. Bear with me.” No phone number is provided. To date, Diver has not responded to e-mails.

Denver Associates, the company for which Diver is said to work, does not seem to exist, and no address is provided. Crumhorn2025—which Diver and Denver Associates are supposed to be representing—does not seem to exist.

The Town of Milford has received no applications for the project the “press release” describes.

Someone went to an awful lot of trouble— designing a logo, writing the release, creating the map of the proposed development. As such, we share Crumhorn2025’s “plans” for the exaggerated picture it paints of what could become of Crumhorn Mountain if OLT is unsuccessful in its efforts to purchase the land and “aliens” do, indeed, invade.

Entertainment Empire Plots Plans for Otsego Mountain Development MARYLAND—Otsego County residents are excited by news that Crumhorn2025 has hired well-known entertainment empire consultant Henry Diver, Esq., PDC of Denver Associates to plan a destination resort and entertainment and residential gaming resort atop beautiful Crumhorn Mountain on the site of the former Boy Scouts of America campground.

Mr. Diver said, “My client, Crumhorn2025, have submitted plans for a family-friendly sports wagering destination that will feature baseballthemed restaurants, nightclubs, health spas and gaming venues on site honoring America’s Great National Pastime.”

Mr. Diver said, “Our studies show this project will pump $2 billion annually into the county’s economy. You can bet on it.”

Mr. Diver added that the gaming floor will be called The Haul of Legends, promising recordsetting payouts on baseball parlays. The outdoor courtyard, The Rose Garden, will lead guests to a sprawling outdoor amphitheater that will host national acts live in concert. The on-site “Order of the Arrow” banking facility honors Crumhorn’s past and points toward its future. The “Joltin’ Joe” coffee beanery will sign contracts to ship freshroasted coffee beans to coffee shops across the northeast via helipad.

All energy for the destination resort and entertainment and residential gaming resort will honor New York’s targeted renewable energy initia-

Continued on page 11

manage these offices and effectively serve the community.

Our Way To Save the Planet

H o metown oneon t a 2008 - 2022

14th anniversary & The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch

HOMETOWN ONEONTA

a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.

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

News Editor Wriley Nelson Business Manager Larissa Ryan

Columnists and Contributing Writers

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

Web Architect 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

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I am writing this endorsement letter to express my strong belief that the position of Otsego County clerk should be filled by the most qualified candidate through the democratic process of voting. Although my personal opinion is that the county clerk role should be an appointed position, I understand that the current system involves electing individuals to this important position.

In the upcoming election for Otsego County clerk, we have two commendable candidates, both of whom are good people. However, one candidate stands out from the other, and that is Jennifer Basile. What sets her apart is her extensive experience of working in the clerk’s office for more than a decade, giving her a unique understanding of the inner workings and requirements of the position.

The role of county clerk is crucial, as it involves overseeing two significant offices—the clerk’s office and the DMV. These departments play a pivotal role in delivering essential services to the public. It is imperative that the individual entrusted with this responsibility possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to efficiently

Jennifer Basile’s experience makes her exceptionally well-equipped to handle the challenges and responsibilities associated with the county clerk position. Her years of service have given her a comprehensive understanding of the intricate processes involved, ensuring a seamless and efficient functioning of both offices. Moreover, her dedication and commitment to public service are evident through her track record of serving the community diligently.

While her opponent may also be a good person, his lack of experience in running the clerk’s office raises concerns about his ability to lead effectively. Given the significance of the position and the services it oversees, it is vital that we elect someone with a proven track record of success and expertise.

I wholeheartedly endorse Jennifer Basile for the position of Otsego County clerk. Her experience and dedication make her the most qualified candidate to uphold the responsibilities of this crucial role and ensure that the public receives the highest level of service.

Hon. Brian S. Pokorny Milford

How, on a personal level, are we trying to save the planet from global warming?

Since 2016, we got 42 solar panels installed by using my retirement money. We are saving five to 10 trees each month, or a carbon offset of 450-900 pounds per month. By August 2023, we will have saved 420-840 trees with a carbon offset of 37,80075,600 pounds. We are also saving approximately $200.00 a month on our electric bill, amounting to a savings of $16,800.00 in seven years. Furthermore, my wife and I bought two hybrid cars: one is used mostly in the city, costing $50.00 of gas a month, whereas the other, costing $100.00 a month, gives us 40 miles a gallon on the highway. It is quite an accomplishment for one family to save Mother Earth. Realistically, when most of the people in New York State and then in the U.S. get their solar panels and hybrid cars or electric cars, we might be able to save our planet for ourselves, our children, and the future generations. Think about it seriously and take action!

Ashok Malhotra Oneonta

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR … In THEIR OPInIOn

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

110 YEARS AGO

A Smoldering Love for Food: Catskill Smokehouse

Jonah Shaw, of Delhi, grew up with a chef’s knife in one hand and a scribbled spreadsheet in the other. From the beginning, he loved cooking great-tasting food and understood the importance of organization to creating it consistently.

He still puts both to use weekly, making many hundreds of pounds of Catskill Smokehouse sausage, bacon, brisket, ribs, pulled pork, ham, smoked trout, and other smoked taste treats. The knife is now assisted by large grinders, a vacuum sausage stuffer, and a huge custom-made hot/cold smoker. The spreadsheet, now on a laptop, is mandatory as he and his crew source more than 138 ingredients, including spices and herbs from around the world, to ingredients grown or foraged locally. All to make over 33 kinds of sausages and two dozen other smoked meats.

Making just one kind of smoked sausage or meat never crossed Jonah’s mind. He lives to experiment with flavors, textures, and aromas, and has knowledge of and access to superb ingredients from around the world, as well as from just down the road. The pork is sourced locally as much as possible, but most still comes from rural Pennsylvania. Still, all his pork is “never ever” pork—this means the animals never have been administered hormones or antibiotics at any point in their lives. Jonah founded his companies on the principles that all food should be safe and healthy, quality food is what counts, and really great food shouldn’t be a luxury for the few. To that end, everything he and his crew of four make is created in small batches, using only the best ingredients, and with tight quality control.

By MERL REAGLE

40 YEARS AGO

August 1913

Tap water in Oneonta is distasteful and smells foul because engineers are pumping from the Susquehanna River to conserve precious water supplies in city reservoirs. The musty flavor is from leaf mold in the Mill Race, along the Susquehanna River, from which the city is drawing the river water, according to city engineer Richard C. Olton. “The resulting mold on the gathering leaves imparts the off-flavor,” Olton explained. Olton said chlorinating the river water and running it through a charcoal filter at the city’s water treatment plant partially eliminates the taint. Rainfall for August in this area has amounted to 3.87 inches, half an inch more than normal, but virtually all of that rainfall came in just two storms. Little or no runoff has been added to the reservoirs so far in August.

August 1983

30 YEARS AGO

Cat Statistics: In 1983, 24.2 million households owned a cat. By 1987, the total had jumped to 27.5 million; and by 1991 to 29.2 million, making felines the number one pet in the country. The total cat population for 1991 was 57 million. Survey results showed the majority of households (58 percent) had only one cat, while 32 percent owned two or three cats. The mean pet food expenditure per cat-owning household was $143.92 annually or approximately $70.88 per cat. Seventy percent of cat-owning households surveyed took their pets to a veterinarian in 1991, a decrease of 8 percent from 1987. Nearly 65 percent of cats taken to a vet received a vaccination.

August 1993

20 YEARS AGO

A U.S.-Canadian probe of last week’s blackout will be quick but thorough so investigators can determine what might be done to prevent a recurrence. U.S. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham and Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Herb Dhaliwal, shook hands as they started their first face-to-face meeting of the joint investigation into the biggest blackout in North American history. Experts studying the outage have pointed to a series of small failures on the northeast Ohio power grid that may have combined to unleash a huge wave of destructive electricity.

August 2003

Solution: “Stereo Homophone” (August 17)

Jonah’s first encounter with the food world started when he was four. In 1976 his mother started—and continues to operate—a food co-op that became the Delhi area’s go-to source for local products. After high school, he bicycled through Europe for a year, seeking interesting local food at every stop. He then led several restaurants in Philadelphia before returning to Delhi to open the Quarter Moon Café and the Catskill Food Company. He now operates the Catskill Smokehouse and Catskill Food Company. Since 2010, he has put on the celebrated Taste of the Catskills Festival, held annually on Columbus Day weekend at Maple Shade Farm, outside Delhi. It’s a family-oriented celebration of local food, drink, music, craft and agriculture, with the emphasis on local.

Jonah says, “I grew up in the Catskill Mountains surrounded by home-grown food and family farms. With clean air, mountain spring water, and rich farmland, the Catskills has produced artisanal dairy, an abundance of seasonal produce, and heritage livestock since the 1700s. I believe the tradition should be preserved and passed on. I also know that people who live here desire and deserve the highest quality food. The Catskill Smokehouse exists to preserve the tradition and satisfy the desire.”

Authored by Sustainable Otsego. Since 2007 we have promoted ecologically sound practices – locally, regionally, and nationally. We advocate sustainable living, economic independence, and home rule. Visit sustainableotsego.net or facebook.com/SustainableOtsego.

Well, Punch Me Out!… It was in the cards

ACROSS

1 Show respect

4 Warden’s woe

8 Singer Basil

12 “___ girl!”

16 Drum place

17 ___ of the tongue

LOCALS: PEOPLE/BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS

Dean’s List include: Emma Vanspanje, Cherry Valley; Nicholas Zamelis, Cooperstown; Aubrie Malesky and Chelsea Waid, Davenport; Zachary Brown and Amanda Snyder, Fly Creek; Samantha Harvey and Alexandria Lincoln, Maryland; Jessica Hoffman, Mount Upton; Jerred Brodie, Mount Vision; Colin Gilbert and Jacob Spoor, New Berlin; Keegan Holt, New Lisbon; Aliyah Abdelsalam, Jacob Aubrey, Cadence Dudley, Jacob Ghiorse, Timothy Ghiorse, Trystan Jennings, Joseph LaRosa, Olivia Litzinger, Allison Miller, Gabriella Ragozzine, Nathaniel Schwed, Risa Tanaka, Victoria Villaverde, Yifan Wang, Delaney Williams, Jacson Wolfe, Graham Wooden and Fenghua Zhao, Oneonta; Bennett Moore and Dylan Neer, Otego; Madison Clark, Ronica Clarke and Katherine Kodz, Richfield Springs; Gabriella Terrano, Schenevus; Christopher Prentice and Anna Tomeo, Sidney; Savannah Baldwin, Haleigh Burton and Raven Henry, Unadilla; and Patricia Biegel, Westford.

Nolan’s Work Featured in Arkell Solo Show

CANAJOHARIE

Mary Nolan, local Cooperstown artist, has been selected to exhibit a solo show at The Arkell Museum. Her exhibit, “Moods of Oneida,” features the landscapes, water, and weather of Oneida Lake painted with movement and atmosphere. The show is on view through October 8. Nolan has a long career as an exhibiting and teaching artist, focusing on Cooperstown, Maine, and Cape Cod regional landscapes. Many of her small onsite oil paintings are used as studies for larger studio paintings. She maintains a studio in Cooperstown. Admission to the Regional Art Galleries, at 2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie, is free.

STUDENT ATHLETE SUCCESS: Avery Leonard of Maryland was named to the Middle Atlantic Conference Academic Honor Roll at Alvernia University on Thursday, July 6. Leonard is one of 202 Alvernia student-athletes who maintained a grade point average greater than 3.20 for the entire academic year. Alvernia University is a Catholic liberal arts university with more than 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville and Philadelphia.

HVCC STANDOUTS: Hudson Valley Community College announced academic honors for the spring 2023 semester on Wednesday, July 5. The Dean’s List recognizes students enrolled in at least six credits and who maintain a GPA between 3.00 and 3.50. Jessica Turek, a paramedic student from Mount Vision, and Leah Goins, a respiratory care student from Worcester, were named to the Dean’s List. The president’s list honors students with a GPA between 3.50 and 4.00. Three Otsego County students earned President’s List Honors: Daeltun Lamb, of Cooperstown; Kyle France, an overhead electric line worker student from Cherry Valley; and William Moody, a mechatronics student from Oneonta. Hudson Valley Community College was founded in 1953 and offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs. It is one of 30 community colleges in the SUNY system and has an enrollment of nearly 8,500 students.

CURTIS QUALIFIES: Kaitlin Curtis of Cooperstown graduated from Emerson College with Bachelor of Science in marketing communication in May. The college announced on Wednesday, July 5 that Curtis was named to the Dean’s List during her final semester. Emerson requires a grade point average of 3.70 or better to qualify for the Dean’s List. Emerson College has about 4,700 students and is located opposite the historic Boston Common.

STUDENTS HONORED: Le Moyne College named two local students to its Dean’s List for the spring 2023 semester. To make the list, students must maintain a grade point average of 3.50 or greater. Sara Brean, a freshman political science major from West Edmeston, and Maria Farrell, a senior biology major from Oneonta, were honored. Le Moyne is one of only 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. It offers more than 30 majors. The college has been recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the best undergraduate institutions in the country for over 10 consecutive years.

LEARNER LOWE: Ethan Lowe of Otego graduated from Le Moyne College in May with a Bachelor of Science in risk management and insurance. The college announced on Thursday, July 6 that Lowe was named to the Dean’s List for his final semester. To qualify, a student must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.50.

STUDENT STANDOUTS: More than 1,100

SUNY Oneonta students earned Dean’s List honors for the spring 2023 semester, the university announced on Thursday, July 6. To qualify, a student must earn a grade point average of at least 3.50 while carrying a course load of 12 hours or more. Local students on the

MORRIS MAKES THE GRADE: Heather Morris of the Town of Maryland graduated from Bismarck State College with an Associate in Applied Science degree in electric power technology at the commencement ceremony on Friday, May 12. BSC is North Dakota’s polytechnic institution and provides affordable, flexible, high-quality experiential learning.

PROVOST PICKS: SUNY Oneonta released its spring 2023 Provost’s List, honoring students with a perfect 4.0 grade point average and a course load of at least 12 hours, on Thursday, July 6. Local students with a perfect GPA included: Camillia Tabor, Cooperstown; Riley Bowen, Faith Logue, and Joseph Senchyshyn, Hartwick; Olivia Card, Megan Catella, David Lincoln, and Olivia O’Donnell, Oneonta; and Raynella Clarke, Richfield Springs. SUNY Oneonta enrolls over 5,500 students in a wide variety of bachelor’s degree programs and more than a dozen graduate certificate and degree programs.

CONGRATS CONROE: Lily Conroe of Worcester was named to the Dean’s List of Delaware Valley University for the spring 2023 semester, the school announced on Thursday, July 13. To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or better while passing 12 or more credits’ worth of classes. Delaware Valley University is a private, comprehensive, nonprofit university located in Doylestown, about 30 miles north of Philadelphia. It offers 28 undergraduate majors in business, arts and sciences, and agricultural and environmental sciences; nine master’s degrees and a doctorate in education.

FAB FOUR: Four Otsego County students were named to the Dean’s List at Hamilton College for the spring 2023 semester: Aben Carrington, of Oneonta, graduated with a degree in physics in May; Patricia Higgins, of Otego, is a rising sophomore; Mia Horvath, of Cherry Valley, is majoring in sociology; and Piper Seamon, of Cooperstown, is studying psychology. To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or greater while carrying a course load of four or more credits.

RILEY ROCKS! Riley Stevens of Milford was named to the Dean’s List at the University of Hartford for the spring 2023 semester. It is a private four-year university with over 4,000 undergraduates and 1,800 graduate students. Dean’s List criteria vary among the University’s schools and programs, but always require at least 12 credit hours and a GPA of 3.0 or better.

DYNAMIC DUO: Rochester Institute of Technology awarded more than 4,800 degrees in the 2022-2023 academic year. Two local students were honored at the May commencement ceremony. Kaleb Kronimus of Schenevus earned an MS in communication and Jaser Iniguez received an MS in applied statistics. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls over 19,000 students in more than 200 degree programs. It is internationally recognized for academic leadership in business, computing, engineering, imaging science and other degree fields.

SCHENEVUS STANDOUT: Hannah Sulas, of Schenevus, was named to Fort Lewis College’s Dean’s List for the spring 2023 semester. She is a geology student. To be eligible, a student must carry a semester GPA of 3.6 or better in 15 or more credithours of classes. Fort Lewis is one of the Southwest’s leading undergraduate research institutions, with over 3,600 students across 55 academic programs.

LOCAL GRADS: More than 2,800 students graduated from Tufts University on Sunday, May 21. William Friedman of Cooperstown graduated summa cum laude with a BS in biology. Finn Hall of Oneonta earned a degree in biopsychology. Located on campuses in Boston, Medford and Grafton, Massachusetts, and in Talloires, France, Tufts is one of the leading research universities in the U.S. It educates over 6,500 undergraduates and 6,000 graduate students in a wide variety of degree programs.

CORTLAND QUALIFIERS: SUNY Cortland announced its 2023 spring semester President’s and Dean’s lists to honor academic achievement on Wednesday, July 26. More than 2,300 students were named to the Dean’s List, which requires a GPA of 3.3 or better. Local students on the Dean’s List include: Khi Atchinson, Tyler Bruce, Mariah Saggese and Elizabeth

Serafin of Oneonta; Molly Babcock and Haley Smith of Sidney; Zoe Climenhaga and Austin Yerdon of Cherry Valley; Justin Schrom of Richmondville; Cameron Neer of West Oneonta; and Kiarra Fisher of East Worcester. Six hundred ninety-six students were named to the President’s List. To qualify, a student must earn a grade of A- or better in all their classes while carrying a course load of 12 hours or more. Tyler Bruce and Elizabeth Serafin of Oneonta were named to the list. Bruce studies sports management and Serafin majors in biology. SUNY Cortland is one of New York’s leading public universities and offers undergraduate degrees in 68 programs.

DEAN’S LIST DESIGNEES: Purchase College, part of the SUNY system, announced that more than 1,200 students were named to the spring 2023 semester Dean’s List. For BA and BS programs, a student must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 to qualify; for BFA and MusB programs, the cutoff is 3.75. All Dean’s List honorees must take a minimum of 12 credits. Local students on the Dean’s List included Abigail Cadwalader, Lydia Williams, and Addison Yastrzemski of Cooperstown, and Jade Anderson, Tyler Lau, and Bailey Roy of Oneonta. Purchase College was founded in 1967 by Governor Nelson Rockefeller and now enrolls over 3,600 students.

CORTLAND QUARTET: More than 950 students received bachelor’s degrees from the State University of New York at Cortland this spring. Coverage of the 2023 commencement ceremonies, including video footage, may be found at www2.cortland. edu/commencement. Local students who graduated included: Star Banner, a school building leader major from Maryland; Rhiannon Beers, of Mount Vision, with a degree in exercise science; Justin Cornia, a physical education major from Oneonta; and Jordyn Lang, of Sidney, a sociology student. SUNY Cortland is one of New York’s top public universities, with 68 undergraduate majors.

SUMMER STUDENTS: Twenty-four SUNY Oneonta students were involved in research projects on and off campus through the university’s Summer Research Fellowship program. Students gained firsthand knowledge in their fields of study with orig-

NYCM Earns Top Honor for Second Straight Year

EDMESTON

New York Central Mutual Insurance has been ranked number one in customer satisfaction among auto insurers in New York in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Auto Insurance Study for the second year in a row.

J.D. Power published the results of its 2023 U.S. Auto Insurance Study on June 13. Providing regional analyses of customers’ perceptions of their auto insurer’s ability to meet their expectations, the study examines customer satisfaction in five factors: (in alphabetical order) billing process and policy information; claims; interaction; policy offerings; and price. NYCM Insurance ranked number one in four out of the five study factors: billing process and policy information; claims; interaction; and price.

“Winning a J.D. Power Award two years in a row is an incredible accomplishment, and to do so while placing first in four out of five study factors is a true testament to the dedication of our entire ecosystem here at NYCM,” said NYCM Insurance President/CEO Cheryl Robinson. “As a carrier solely serving New York State, we feel especially honored to be receiving this award. Customer care is one of our biggest priorities and something we take very seriously. We’re proud to offer award-winning insurance, and that our commitment to our customer’s satisfaction is recognized.”

The 2023 U.S. Auto Insurance Study also found that nearly one-third (31 percent) of auto insurance customers had experienced a rate increase during the last year. While overall satisfaction with auto insurance dropped 12 points (on a 1,000-point scale), NYCM Insurance improved its satisfaction score by 8 index points.

Photo provided by May-Britt Joyce

Photo provided NYCM Insurance President/CEO Cheryl Robinson and CFO/CRO/Treasurer Mike Perrino holding the 2022 & 2023 J.D. Power Trophies for #1 in Customer Satisfaction Among Auto Insurers in New York.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) for the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearings on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at 5:00 P.M. or as soon thereafter as can be heard:

• Meeting to be held in the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown.

47 Susquehanna Avenue - Applicant seeks permission to build an addition to the existing garage, lengthening it from 24ft to 48ft. Since the proposed addition does not meet setback requirements at the southern property line, a variance would be issued by the ZBA in order for this addition construction to proceed.

15 Chestnut Street – Proposal to replace the rear addition on the home with a larger, redesigned addition. Since the existing home and this addition do not meet current setback requirements at the eastern property line, a variance would be issued by the ZBA in order for this addition construction to proceed.

The plans for this project are on file with the Village Clerk’s Office at the Village Office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York, and may be seen during regular office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Public comments

• must be provided by email to the Zoning Officer at zoning@ cooperstownny. org, or • by regular mail to the address below no later than Tuesday, September 5, 2023, or • may be offered in person at the 5:00 p.m. ZBA meeting on September 5, 2023.

Respectfully,

Jenna Utter Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326

Tele: (607)5472411

Email: jutter@ cooperstownny. org

EF2023-104 STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT – COUNTY OF OTSEGO

KEYBANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, -vs-

WILLIAM H. STENZ, AS EXECUTOR TO THE ESTATE OF GERARD

J. STENZ, DECEASED; OWEN M. STENZ whether he/she be alive or dead, or the successor in interest, if any, of said defendant who may be deceased, and the respective Heirs at Law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff; BRITTANY C. STENZ-MABIE; Defendants. Mortgaged Premises: 168 Mountain Lane, Cooperstown, NY 13326

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S):

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

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this

summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer to the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

OTSEGO County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises.

Dated:

January 16, 2023

Mark K. Broyles, Esq. FEIN SUCH & CRANE, LLP

Attorneys for Plaintiff Office and P.O.

Address 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, New York 14614 Telephone No. (585) 2327400

Section: 86.00 and 71.00

Block: 1 Lot: 7.02 and 22.23 and 22.24

NATURE AND OBJECT OF ACTION

The object of the above action is to foreclose a mortgage held by the Plaintiff recorded in the County of OTSEGO, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein.

TO THE DEFENDANT, the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of HON. BRIAN D. BURNS Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated JULY 14, 2023 and filed along with the supporting papers in the OTSEGO Parcel I ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND. Situate in the Town of Middlefield. County of Otsego and State of New York, PARCEL II ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND, situate in the Town of Middlefield,

Otsego County, Now York, Mortgaged Premises: 168 Mountain Lane, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Section: 86.00 Block:

1 Lot: 7.02 of the Town of Middlefield, NY 13326 AND Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Section:

71.00 Block:

1 Lot: 22.23 of the Town of Middlefield, NY 13326 AND Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Section: 71.00 Block: 1 Lot: 22.24 of the Town of Middlefield, NY 13326 77305

4LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Crooked Reel Productions LLC

filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on APRIL 28, 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served upon him or her to: 228 Mountain Tom Road Springfield Center, NY 13468 and 1967 Wehrle Drive Suite 1086 Buffalo, NY 14221.

Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

6LegalSept.28

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF ACKLEY TREE SERVICE LLC.

Filed 4/7/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 3 Rose Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820. Registered Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave , Ste 202, Bklyn, NY 11228.

Purpose: General.

6LegalSept.28

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 62 Maple Street, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 7/12/23.

The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County.

The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the

LLC served upon him to: The LLC, 493 Chestnut St., Ste. 2, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

6LegalSept.14

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF The Turk Plantation LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 3, 2023 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 810 Mooney Road, Worcester, NY 12197

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalSept.14

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Waterman Trucking LLC.

Filed 7/18/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 242 Waterman Rd, Worcester, NY 12197.

Purpose: General.

6LegalSept.14

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY;

Name of LLC: 379 COUNTY HIGHWAY 33, LLC;

Date of filing: July 26, 2023; Office of the LLC: Otsego Co.; The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 6559 State Highway 80, Cooperstown, New York 13326; Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Pleasant Brook Hotel LLC.

Filed 6/28/23.

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

Purpose: General.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

RCBJ PROPERTIES, LLC

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”). Limited Liability Company Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on 07/21/2023. Office location: 168 Clover Hill Road, Oneonta, Otsego County, NY.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC, 168 Clover Hill Road, Oneonta, New York 13820.

Purpose: Any lawful act under New York LLC Law.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Kostek Consulting LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on April 30, 2023.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 20 Quarry Street, Cherry Valley NY 13320

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF JNC OTSEGO LLC.

Filed 6/26/23. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: James Crutchley, 13 Oliver St, Framingham, MA 01702.

Purpose: General.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 31 Walnut Street, LLC, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on July 18, 2023. NY office Location: OTSEGO County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 31 Walnut Street, LLC, 31 Pioneer Street, Suite 3, Cooperstown, New York 13326. General Purposes.

6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Alan/Roberta Steere LLC.

Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 6/30/2023. Office location 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, 161 Tunnicliff Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose: any lawful. 6LegalSept.7

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF

The Chief Schenevus, LLC.

Arts. of org. filed with SSNY on 07/13/2023.

Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 104 Stevens RD, PO Box 126, Maryland, NY 12116.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.31

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Oneonta Family Medicine PLLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/10/23 Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 1123 County Highway 26, Fly Creek NY 13337.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalAug.31

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF RSD Enterprises LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the SSNY on 6/29/2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RSD Enterprises LLC, c/o Robert Dunbar 235 Flax Island Rd, Otego, NY

13825.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.31

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: Phoenix Herbs, LLC

Date of Formation: March 25, 2023. County: Otsego. Secretary of State of New York designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against LLC may be served with copies then mailed to: Phoenix Herbs, LLC, 114 Morrell Rd., Worcester, NY 12197.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Dream Exotics, LLC.

Filed 6/16/23.

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

6LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name:

KING CABIN LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 12 July 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 8129 St Hwy 28, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

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

6LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Olivia The Creative, LLC.

Articles of organization filed with SSNY on June 28, 2023.

Location: Otsego County SSNY is designated agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 25 Woodside Avenue, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any

lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

LegaL nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: HOTDOG VENTURES, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 16 June 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 434 Williams Road, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF WAXING GIBBOUS, LLC.

Filed 5/20/23.

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

Purpose: General.

6LegalAug.24

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY:

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

The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was December 22, 2022.

The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the Company, to Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, Attn: Christina J. Graziadei, 80 Exchange Street, Ste 700, Binghamton, NY 13901. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.

6LegalAug.24

Cooperstown daily (46.58%) and data shows a significant focus on retail and housing development. Enhancements identified as most needed to encourage new investment and economic growth in the downtown district additional housing opportunities (53.7%), infill development for vacant and underutilized sites (52.47%), and supporting and growing businesses (51.85%).

Specialty stores and boutiques (57.76%) ranked highest among business establishments respondents would like to see more of in downtown Cooperstown, followed by grocery shops (39.13%), restaurants/ cafes/bakeries (37.27%), and convenience stores (36.65%).

Housing options

prioritized by survey respondents were led by apartments over commercial/retail establishments (53.7%) and affordable housing (50%). Senior housing was flagged by 27.78% as a priority.

Factors that discouraged respondents from visiting downtown Cooperstown more often were parking (49.06%), things to do (47.80%) and congestion (39.62%). Highest priorities for the downtown area were affordable housing (55.28%), followed by family entertainment (36.65%), arts/theaters/ event venues (33.54%), bike and pedestrian amenities (33.54%), affordable workspaces (31.68%), and food and beverage (30.43%).

According to Highland Planning, key findings from the survey responses include:

• Non-baseball and tourist-related retail options are currently missing from downtown Cooperstown.

• Affordable housing and apartments above commercial and retail establishments were among the highest priorities for the downtown district.

• Lack of parking, shopping options and things to do geared toward residents are chief among the reasons respondents are discouraged from going downtown.

“Respondents stressed a need for a convenience store downtown, methods of reducing congestion in the tourist season and creating things for residents to do downtown,” Highland Planning reported.

“I think the key findings were not surprising— they are things we often consider in our planning,” Tillapaugh reflected. “Some, such as more apartments and housing, we can work on by ensuring our zoning regulations support such development and by assisting with grants where possible.

“Some are part of the free market, and over which we have more limited control—the need for non-baseball or tourist related retail stores or a downtown convenience store,” she continued.

When asked how they would describe the Village of Cooperstown to friends and family,

many respondents found the village charming and quaint but had concerns about there being too much focus on baseball.

“Overall, the survey reflected a mix of positive sentiments about the village’s charm and history, along with concerns about an overemphasis on baseball and a desire for more diverse offerings and improved local experiences,” the summary reads.

Looking ahead, respondents want Cooperstown to remain quaint while becoming more modern and dynamic, including improved storefront appearance, with a balance between catering to tourists and supporting the needs of residents.

Enhancements suggested by survey respondents included the addition of kayak ramps at the lakefront, increased activities and attractions after 7 p.m., a movie theater, playgrounds and familyfriendly recreational spaces, and a parking garage. With regard to preservation and rehabilitation of historic buildings, 43.21% of those responding considered this important in order to maintain Cooperstown’s unique and nostalgic atmosphere.

On March 2, the Village of Cooperstown was awarded a $4.5 million NY Forward grant, one of three Mohawk Valley winners of the first round of the new state grant program created to invigorate and enliven downtowns in New York’s smaller and rural communities. Building on the momentum of New York State’s successful Downtown Revitalization Initiative, the NY Forward program adopts the same “Planthen-Act” strategy as the DRI to support a more equitable downtown recovery for New York’s smaller and rural communities.

A Strategic Investment Plan for Cooperstown’s NY Forward grant will be prepared, with oversight by an 11-member Local Planning Committee cochaired by Tillapaugh and Ken Meifert. As part of the process, the Village of Cooperstown put out a Request for Proposals for eligible projects, including public improvement, new development/rehabilitation of downtown buildings, façade enhancements or small scale building

renovations, and branding and marketing for downtown. To be eligible, NY Forward funded projects must be located within the NY Forward boundary, be able to break ground within two years of receiving funding, have financing largely in place, and be sponsored by a public, non-profit or private entity with legal authority to undertake the project

Tillapaugh said RFP submissions were due on August 2 and will be vetted by the LPC at meetings which are open to the public. The next LPC meeting is set for Wednesday, August 23 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Cooperstown Village Hall. For more information, visit https:// www.cooperstownny. org/new-york-forward-2/.

Reading

Continued from page 1

previous assessment year. The 2022 average score was not significantly different compared to the first reading assessment in 1992, according to the NAEP. Louisiana, Alabama (+2) and Hawaii (+1) were the only states showing a positive scorepoint change last year. The most significant score-point drops were seen in Delaware (-9) and Virginia (-10).

Fourth grade English Language Arts standardized testing for the 2021-2022 school year indicates that, collectively, Otsego County schools fall below the New York State average. The county weighted average in grade four ELA proficiency (level three and four test results) was 32%, 10 percentage points less than the state average of 42%. PostCOVID results in grade four were down across the board from the 20182019 averages, at which time ELA proficiency was 48% and 41% for the state and county, respectively.

ELA grade eight averages were at 50% in 2021-2022 for New York State (up from 48% in 2018-2019), while the county weighted average was just two points lower in 2021-2022, dropping to 39% versus 41% in 2018-2019.

While the fourth grade weighted average for Otsego County overall was lower than the state average, two

schools—Cooperstown and Oneonta—recorded higher proficiency levels than the state average, at 49% and 45%, respectively. At the eighthgrade level, three schools outperformed the state average: Cooperstown with 65% proficiency, Edmeston with 64% and Morris with 55%.

Countywide trends for fourth- and eighthgrade math proficiency levels were closer to that of the statewide averages. While the county weighted average for grade four math scores was 35% in 2021-2022, eight percentage points lower than the state average of 43%, the county average in 20182019 was slightly ahead of the state—49% versus 48%. Eighth-grade math students in Otsego County in 2021-2022 matched the state’s proficiency level at 24%. The New York State average in 20182019 was just four points higher than the county weighted average—33% versus 29%.

Two Otsego County schools scored higher than the 2021-2022 state average in fourthgrade math proficiency, Cooperstown at 58% and Richfield Springs at 43%. Eight county districts scored ahead of the state level in eighthgrade math—Cherry Valley-Springfield, Cooperstown, Edmeston, g ilbertsville-Mount Upton, Laurens, Morris, Otego and Worcester. Morris more than doubled the state average, at 52% versus 24%.

Full details on Otsego County school data can be found at New York State Education Department website, at data.nysed. gov. The state cautions, “Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, it may not be appropriate to compare 2021-22 NYS standardized assessment results with results from prior years.”

However, while the data does show drops in proficiency rates from 2018-2019 to 20212022, this is not the case in all categories or for all schools. Proficiency levels for Worcester Central School, for instance, improved across the board in both grade four and grade eight ELA and math testing. Other notable changes in performance include Oneonta’s grade four ELA scores (increasing to 45% profi-

VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM

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

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

ciency in 2021-2022 from 22% in 2018-2019) and gilbertsville-Mount Upton’s grade four ELA scores, up 11 points in 2021-2022, while CherryValley Springfield’s grade eight math proficiency scores jumped 27 points in 2021-2022 over 2018-2019.

Cycling

Continued from page 2

those over 60, and a 40K event for pretty much everyone else.

“I think our youngest rider was 9 and the oldest 75,” Martin added. “It’s a really cool event. Possibly we will host again in 2025.”

Upcoming CNYC events include the Butternut gravel grinder on October 7 in New Lisbon. For more information, visit the CNYC Facebook page.

Locals

Continued from page 6

inal work in topics ranging from theater to natural science. Students receive grants of up to $3,000.00 each with a maximum of $6,000.00 for two or more students working on a single project. Those who must remain on campus for the summer can stay for free. Local students working on fellowships over the summer months include Jhon Rios and Andrew Lutz, both of Oneonta.

LOCALS LAUDED: More than 10,000 University of Maryland global Campus students were named to the Dean’s

List for the spring 2023 semester. To be eligible for the list, students must complete at least six credits, earn a gPA of 3.5 for the term and maintain a cumulative gPA of 3.5. Timothy Meyers of Oneonta and Taejong Yoo of Mount Upton were each named to the list. UMgC was founded more than 75 years ago to provide higher education to working adults and military service members. It is the largest postsecondary educational institution in Maryland.

ERARIO HONORS:

Aly Erario of Oneonta was one of nearly 6,000 students at Montclair State University to be named to the Dean’s List for the 2023 semester. To qualify, students must earn a gPA of 3.5 or higher. Erario is a psychology major. Montclair State is a top-ranked research doctoral institution with over 21,000 students in more than 300 programs.

LEONARD LISTED:

Avery Leonard, of Maryland, was one of over 700 students named to the Alvernia University Dean’s List for the fall 2022 semester. Leonard has yet to choose a course of study. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must maintain a gPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credits. Alvernia is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation started by Bernadine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. It serves over 3,000 students at campus locations in Reading, Pottsville and Philadelphia.

OBITUARIES

Lucy Battel Hamilton

1933-2023

COOPERSTOWN—A memorial service for Lucy Battel Hamilton is scheduled for Monday, August 28 at Christ Church in Cooperstown at 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of her life at Templeton Hall.

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

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

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home 14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com

Funeral Home

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

Dignified and Caring Service since 1925 Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings. Peter A. Deysenroth 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown | 607-547-8231 www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com

Abroad

Continued from page 1

German-speaking parts of Europe stretching back to the early Middle Ages. It was a major node of peaceful interaction between Catholics and Protestants after the Reformation and passed back and forth between German and French control four times between the FrancoPrussian War in 1871 and the end of World War II. Today, Strasbourg is a major university town with key engineering, manufacturing and transportation sectors. It remains an important site of intercultural dialogue, hosting a large Germanspeaking population, the headquarters of the European Parliament and the largest Islamic place of worship in France.

The Institut put Loewenguth through an in-person test on general knowledge of French history and modern politics. The director sat with her for an interview and explicitly said that the IEJ had no experience with “exchange students” and did not really know what to do with her. It was the beginning of a somewhat testy relationship with the Institut; many professors were rude or dismissive to the American interloper, and a few even mocked her accent in class. Loewenguth repeatedly expressed her gratitude to friends and classmates who stood up for her and provided a strong support system.

“They helped me succeed in every way,” she said.

Despite the occasional run-ins with xenophobic professors and administrators, Loewenguth greatly enjoyed her studies and her life in the city.

“I found a roommate on Facebook and an incredible 60 squaremeter [about 650 square feet] apartment. It was a 10-minute bike ride from my classes and I could ride or walk to anywhere else I needed to go within a few minutes,” she said. Loewenguth typically spent four to eight hours a day at school, then worked at a tea shop until 1 a.m. She enjoyed the bustle and convenience of a highly walkable city with a young, diverse population.

“It’s very different from Paris,” she recalled. “There is a lot of crossclass mixing. Everyone in Paris looks like they have money, or like they’re trying to look like they have money. In Strasbourg, people are more genuine, they seem a lot more absorbed in living their own lives and they’re more interested in the lives of others. There were a ton of great food options, too, anything you can imagine.”

All in all, the experience was life-changing.

“It helped me be more ok with not being ok,” Loewenguth said. “I got some pushback from a lot of the teachers and I learned that I could handle it. Going back further to my Rotary and au pair experiences, learning the language made me feel accomplished. It all helped me find myself.”

Otsego County residents have had life-

changing adventures abroad. Travel changes people for the better, and stories of travel can inspire local communities to engage more fully with the world around them. If you have a story of work, study, or exploration overseas, contact News Editor Wriley Nelson at NewsDesk@ allotsego.com to bring your story home.

Crumhorn

Continued from page 4

tives by being fully sustainable and carbon-neutral by 2035. Trees from the deforestation required for certain construction projects will be shipped to facilities chosen for appropriate repurposing.

Mr. Diver said, “We have submitted plans for a fully integrated, selfsustaining, energy environment powered fully by eight wind turbines, solar panels discreetly lining County Route 35 under heavy shrubbery, a geothermal energy storage facility, and a best-in-class cooling tower.”

Mr. Diver said his clients have pledged to expand County Route 35, transforming the two-lane country road into a fourlane divided highway with limited one-way access to ensure public safety. Innovative electric masstransit vehicles will utilize existing railroad right-ofway to minimize additional traffic on New York Route 28. Plans submitted for federal approval include expanding the Westville, New York airport to accommodate executive air transportation, as well as a new “Schenevus Flyover” exit and multilevel commuter parking hub adjacent to Interstate 88 to handle the expected increase in traffic.

Mr. Diver said, “We think the existing geography will handle the pilings necessary to build ramps high enough so that it won’t inconvenience the people of Schenevus in the long term and minimize environmental impact downstream.”

Mr. Diver said, “The existing scout camp infrastructure and buildings with 10,000 square feet will provide adequate resources for the anticipated influx

of workers needed to facilitate the construction of the shovel-ready facility. We have a team of lawyers on hand to expedite any passport or Visa issues that might arise.”

Mr. Diver said, “We have heard nothing but positive comments to date and are excited to become as much a part of the county as are other world-class tourism destinations and baseball field complexes in the area. Our internal polling data analysis says the county is ready for a year-round destination.”

Mr. Diver said, “We look at what our friends at Windham Mountain have in mind with 200 new singlefamily homes and we believe we can leverage the same bounty for Otsego County. The Catskills provides a good benchmark.”

Mr. Diver said the resort’s job training and dormitory campus will welcome candidates with or without experience willing to relocate to the beauty of Otsego County. The submitted plans also include a hydroponic, self-contained growth environment with farm-to-table vegan options, and a dispensary.

He said aside from gaming tables, popular slots, baseball-themed sports wagering, on-line gaming, several bars and restaurants, an entertainment hub, and a pool table, the smoke-free, family-friendly environ-

Thejob scene

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

Join

VIP Resource Navigator

WIC Program Assistant

Energy Services Office Administrator

Weatherization/Energy Svcs.

Home Energy Auditor

Education/Disabilities Specialist

Head Start Recruiting & Outreach Coordinator

Home Visitor

FT Weatherization/Energy Svcs. Positions working 4 days, 10-hr. shifts:

Crew Laborer

Crew Leader

FT Head Start Positions with school breaks and summers off: Bus Driver

Family Partner Classroom Aide

OFO is a family-oriented organization offering competitive wages, excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth. For details on our current openings, our benefit package summary, and TO APPLY, visitwww.ofoinc.org/jobs

ment will include lighted baseball fields, an innovative 21-hole “Blackjack” professional golf course, a 24-7 multi-level lighted professional golf driving range, the Seventh Inning Stretch health spa and day care center, a petting zoo, and to capitalize on the latest wagering trend, a room dedicated solely to dominoes, all powered by on-site, self-sustaining green energy initiatives.

Mr. Diver added, “We are looking forward to new laws that will allow our destination property to take full advantage of the nearby Hooker Forest Preserve. We will be a one-stop resort: attracting and respecting a diverse population of New Yorkers and world travelers who know how and where to get lucky.”

Mr. Diver said, “Crumhom2025 is eager to work with our partners in government as we expedite our application through in time to open for the exciting 2025 season.”

Editor’s Note: A new rumor has recently surfaced that the Boy Scout camp facility will be used to house the homeless. Stay tuned.

MACHINIST

Sportsfield Specialties is seeking a hands-on Machinist who can work independently and/or with others as a production team member with good analytical skills. Candidate must be reliable and flexible with schedule during summer months.

Responsibilities/Duties inclu D e but not limite D to:

• Maintain safe and clean working environment by complying with the required procedures, rules, and regulations.

• Program and operate various CNC equipment such as lathes, vertical mills, full turning centers, saws.

• Ability to read prints, product paperwork, and specifications.

• Inspect parts with precision measuring tools.

• Monitor output to ensure consistency with specifications and disregard defects.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

requ I red quA l I f ICATI o NS/ S k I ll S:

• High attention to detail.

• Ability to complete tasks in a safe and efficient manner in a deadline-driven environment.

• Ability to communicate effectively.

• Ability to use and operate hand tools and warehouse equipment safely.

• Must be mathematically inclined.

edu CATI o N/exper I e NC e:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Trade School, College and/or experience in machine operating or relative field preferred but not required.

pHySICA l r equ I re M e NTS:

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking.

• Frequent lift, push/pull and carry anywhere up to 7Slbs periodically and occasionally above shoulder.

• Frequent hand/wrist movement and forearm rotation.

• May be required to participate in medical exams that are required, such as NYS DOT physical and or NYS DOT drug screen, 3rd party hearing test, and/or medical exam for required PPE (respirator medical form).

High Growth Potential, Salary DOE, great benefit package includes but not limited to: health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, life insurance, flexible spending and paid time off. To apply, submit application online at www.sportsfield.com, fax resume to (607) 746-3107 or send resume to: Human Resources, P.O. Box 231, Delhi, NY 13753.

Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. We do not sponsor employment visas.

►Fri., August 25

HAZARDOUS WASTE

8-11 a.m. Otsego County households are invited to bring paints, pesticides, solvents, cleaners, other chemicals to be safely collected and disposed of. Unadilla Town Barn, 216 County Highway 3, Unadilla. (607) 547-4225.

FOOD SERVICE Noon to 1 p.m. Children receive free food. Open to all children through age 18. Other activities include a bookmobile and games. Held Monday through Friday in July and August. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 432-0061.

TOURNAMENT

4-7 p.m. Fun Mini-Golf Tournament and Business After Hours session. Open to the community. Barnyard Swing Mini-Golf, 4604 State Highway 28, Milford. (607) 432-4500.

MUSIC 5-8 p.m. Eddie and Birddog Show. Fine food, cool beer and some hot tunes. The O at 112, 112 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-0179.

TRIBUTE CONCERT

6-9 p.m. “Downtown

Men,” a tribute to Billy Joel. $30. Includes cash bar. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

TRAIN RIDES

6:30 p.m. Ride the Richfield Springs Scenic Railway. Tickets, $20/ adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 MC Koons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.

FIREWORKS Dusk to 9:30 p.m. Annual fireworks over the lake. Goodyear Lake, Portlandville. Visit goodyearlakeny. org

►sAt., August 26

HAWKWATCH All day. Watch for migrating raptors with the DelawareOtsego Audubon Society. Franklin Mountain Hawkwatch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta. (607) 397-3815.

FUNDRAISER 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 4th annual “Cancer Shoot.” Shooting events throughout the day, including prizes, auction, raffles. Proceeds donated to Memorial Sloan Kettering for cancer research. Burlington Flats Fish & Game Club, 615 Louie Dickinson Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8096.

PARTY & YARD SALE

8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Back-ToSchool Bash. Backpack giveaway, bounce house, paint slip and slide, raffle, bake sale, yard sales, more. Rain or shine. Oneonta Assembly of God, 1667 County Highway 48, Oneonta. (607) 432-4863.

BENEFIT RUN

8 a.m. Falling Footsteps Walk/Run and Breakfast. Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-3200.

HAZARDOUS WASTE

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Otsego County households are invited to bring paints, pesticides, solvents, cleaners, other chemicals

BUY • SELL • RENT Also

Rob Lee Licensed Real Estate

607-434-5177 roblee1943@gmail.com

to be safely collected and disposed of. Meadows Office Complex, 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown. (607) 5474225.

BLOCK PARTY 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Get to know local Worcester organizations. Includes live music, giveaways, yard sales, bounce houses, vendors, more. Strawberry Hall, 174 Main Street, Worcester. culinaryanthropology@gmail.com.

CONCERT

9-11 a.m. Fenimore Chamber Orchestra opens its 2nd season with “Classical Treasures.” Featuring works by Haydn, Mozart, others. Christ Church Episcopal, 46 River Street, Cooperstown. Visit fenimoreco.org/20232024/

CORNHOLE 10 a.m. Morris Fire Department Cornhole Tournament. $35/team. Cash prizes for top five places. Morris Fire Department, 117 Main Street, Morris. (607) 263-5500.

FIBER ARTS 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fiber Arts Weekend. Demonstrations of weaving, spinning, knitting, other textile-related activities. Included with admission. Continues

8/27. The Farmers’ Museum, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1450.

YARD SALE DAY

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 30+ yard sales during the Annual Fly Creek Community Day. Includes shows, special events and luncheon at 11 at the Fly Creek Grange Hall, Fly Creek.

FAMILY FARM DAY

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit family farms in Schoharie, Otsego and Delaware counties. Meet the farmers, learn about where food comes from, and

enjoy activities including tours, rides, and more. Find the map at cceschoharie-otsego.org

ENGINE SHOW

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Antique Engine Show. Single-cylinder gas engines from around New York State. Admission and parking are free. Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, 288 Goose Street, Fly Creek. (607) 547-9692.

SPLASH & SIZZLE

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Water balloons, water blasters, bounce houses, local vendors, lawn games, live music, face painting and more. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 3767599.

BENEFIT DINNER

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Willy’s Good Chicken Dinner benefiting the SNAP Match Program. $15/dinner. Support local families in need at the local farmers’ market. Hulse Hill Farm, 5928 State Highway 28, Fly Creek. (607) 5472536.

EXHIBITION 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Passages: Creatures & Curiosities,” featuring Petey Brown, Ava Fedorov and Helen Quinn. Free admission. Also open daily by appointment. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5327.

PERIOD FARCES

Noon & 2 p.m. “Cox & Box: A Musical Comedy” presented by The Templeton Players. A silly musical farce in which a conniving landlord tricks Mr. Cox and Mr. Box into sharing the same apartment. How long can the scheme last before chaos ensues?

The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown (607) 5471450.

TOURNAMENT 1 p.m. Volleyball tournament

to support local food pantries. Bring a non-perishable food item to enter. Spectators welcome.

Gilbert Lake State Park, 18 CCC Road, Laurens. (607)431-0432.

TRAIN RIDES 1 p.m.

Nature discovery and appreciation on the “Mink Creek Local” over railway bridges and into the “Great Cedar Swamp.” Learn the history of the local railway built in 1868. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.

SPEAKER 2-3 p.m.

The Catskill Eagle, aka Hank Nicols, presents on his hike of the entire Appalachian Trail looking for Henry David Thoreau. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Road 11, Hartwick. (607) 2936600 or e-mail kodonnell@stny.rr.com

POETRY & FICTION

2-4 p.m. Enjoy annual reading of poetry and prose by the Central NY Writers Workshop. Free, donations appreciated for the upkeep of the barn.

Refreshments available. Windfall Dutch Barn, GPS location is 2009 Clinton Road, Fort Plain. (518) 992-2976.

THEATER SERIES

2 p.m. Gerry Trentham. Choreographer and interdisciplinary performing artist shows original works and presents an interactive movement workshop. Tickets are available in advance and at the door for a suggested donation of $5. Kaats Cradle, 76 Main St., Stamford.

►sun., August 27

MINDFULNESS

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Otsego County Conservation Association invites the community for a session of fresh air and moving meditation. Wilbur Park

Pavilion, Oneonta. (607) 547-4488.

WORKSHOP

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Puppetry Workshop of the Cherry Valley Water Project” with Jade Weiss. Registration required. Cherry Valley Old School, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. info@thetelegraphschool.org.

FUNDRAISER Noon.

“Dine Out For A Cause.”

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and a percentage of the proceeds goes to support local non-profit Helios Care. Lake House Restaurant, 2521 County Highway 22, Richfield Springs. (607) 432-6773.

PERIOD FARCES

Noon & 2 p.m. “A Good Night’s Rest,” presented by The Templeton Players. Mr. Snobbington desperately needs to sleep but the neighbor is making a ruckus after being locked out. What to do but invite the neighbor in, if only he will quiet down. What could possibly go wrong?

The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown (607) 5471450.

SUMMER SUNDAY

PRESENTATION

1-3 p.m. “Barns of New York” with Cindy Falk. Free and open to the public. Bring own folding law chair; handicap accessible. Swart-Wilcox House Museum, 24 Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. CAR SHOW 5-8 p.m. Cruise-In Car Show. Classic cars and ice cream for sale. Jerry’s Place, 6635 State Highway 28, Hartwick. (607) 5476635.

►Mon., August 28

WORKSHOP

9 a.m. Introduction to “Handshake,” the online portal to find interns from throughout the region. Registration and laptop required. Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, 31 Main Street, Oneonta. E-mail kvanzandt@otsegocc.com

EXHIBIT TOUR

2 p.m. “Otsego: A Meeting Place.” Join a museum educator to learn the rich history of the Otsego Region. Included with museum admission. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 5471400.

FOOD SERVICE Noon to 1 p.m. Children receive free food. Open to all children through age 18. Other activities include a bookmobile and games. Held Monday through Friday in July and August. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 432-0061. CONCERT 5:30 p.m. Country singer/guitarist

Opportunity of a lifetime! Traditional country farmstead situated on 507 acres in Delaware County, w/over 7,800 feet of road frontage! Property includes original one-room schoolhouse, 3 corrals, sturdy barn, and tree-lined driveway to your postcard-perfect farmhouse. House includes a true country kitchen w/modern appliances, bay windows in the LR, in-ground pool and outdoor patio. The views from the 15 window cathedral ceiling sunroom feature a pond, wooden foot bridge, and trout stream! Includes a vast 480-A managed forest. $1,795,000. MLS#R1485338

Josh Breen closes out the 2023 Summer Concert Series at the Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377. CONCERT 7 p.m. Chris White Duo. Free; rain or shine. Meadow Links Golf Pavilion, 476 County Road 27, Richfield Springs.