Fiery Latin Dance Band
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Viewing Platform Project Plans On Hold
By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN
iscussion of the proposed Lakefront Park viewing platform project has been tabled for the time being, following Monday night’s informational meeting, led by Delta Engineer Director of Landscape Architecture Michael Haas, and the subsequent Village Board meeting. Haas reviewed plans for the platform, which was to be installed at the northern terminus of Pioneer Street, in Lakefront Park. The plans received push back from members of the public as well as some village trustees.
The project was conceptualized about eight years ago as a result of public input, Tillapaugh told Iron String Press, including
the 2018 Parks Survey circulated via the village newsletter and numerous public charrettes for the 2016 Comprehensive Plan, which emphasized the need for greater ADA-compliant accessibility and access to Otsego Lake via Lakefront Park for non-boaters, including a walking/fishing pier.
“The public put a great deal of priority on recreation,” Tillapaugh said Monday night. “There is an entire section in the Comp Plan on Lakefront Park.”
“During the course of these meetings, we got tons of feedback,” Tillapaugh added.
According to Tillapaugh, there was a lot of support for a long pier, “but a pier is not something we want there, it’s too much. We wanted something that was ADA compliant and complemented the
[Lake and Valley Garden Club] buffer strip.”
A planning grant from New York State Parks and Historic Preservation written in 2018 paid for consultant Haas and, in 2023, the planning grant was closed out and the village applied for a construction grant in July 2023 through the state’s Consolidated Funding Application. A public hearing on the project was held in December 2023. There is no contract as yet— the village is just putting the pieces in place, Tillapaugh said.
During his presentation, which included project schematics and renderings, Haas said the viewing platform design concept took into consideration the size of the overlook, materials to be used, consistency with the village’s
Continued on page 10
Residents Oppose Tax Hike, Request More Transparency
By MONICA CALZOLARI
ONEONTA
The November 19 Oneonta Common Council meeting attracted about 25 concerned citizens, the equivalent of a full house. There were 20 motions on the agenda. The council debated various issues for more than four hours.
Just before 10 p.m., the council approved the proposed 2025 budget and voted to exceed the tax cap. By this time, only three members of the audience remained. Two were city employees, Brian Knapp, the fire chief, and Chris Yacobucci, director of Public Works. These meetings are livestreamed for remote viewing and recorded for anyone to watch after the fact at https:// www.youtube.com/user/CityOfOneonta/library.
Mayor Mark Drnek preempted some of the public’s concerns with a speech near the beginning of the meeting, which started about 6 p.m. He addressed the vacancy of the Seventh Ward Common Council seat.
The seat was vacated in September by Bryce Wooden. Mayor Drnek recommended Michael Forster-Rothbart on November 19, weeks after his first nomination was rejected. Forster-Rothbart has lived in Oneonta for 15 years and has owned his home in the Seventh Ward since 2011.
“Mike currently serves the city as a member of the Environmental Board. He’s also a member of the Oneonta Greenway Committee, and I think, importantly, he worked on the city’s Comprehensive Plan,” Drnek said of Forster-Rothbart. “He is also keenly aware of the city’s increasing difficulties funding and maintaining its quality of life and understands how that complicates efforts of recruitment and the support of our economy…He is committed to this city’s future and would relish the opportunity to play a part in placing it on a path to success.”
There are eight wards in the City of Oneonta repre-
Continued on page 9
Cemetery Gate Restoration Gets Underway This Week
By CASPAR EWIG
FLY CREEK
As of Tuesday, November 26, the first steps to refurbish the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery gate have been undertaken. Jeffrey McCormack, a local contractor, has removed the existing gate and taken it to his premises to repair and restore various damaged parts, as well as to clean and renew the entire structure.
Restoration is expected to be completed by spring 2025 and a dedication ceremony for eventual reinstallation of the gate is planned for the 150th anniversary of the founding of the cemetery on July 14, 2025.
“Although the gate definitely needed refurbishing,” Christine Olsen, president of the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association, said, “the impetus of undertaking the restoration at this time was that we received a
$5,000.00 grant from the [Community Foundation of Otsego County] Otsego County Cemetery Restoration Fund. This fund supports the preservation and historic quality of Otsego County cemeteries.”
However, as Walter Dusenbery, cemetery association treasurer, noted, “The cost of restoration is estimated at $13,500.00, so we are embarking on a campaign to raise the additional funds.”
The original gate was manufactured by the Page Woven Wire Fence Company of Michigan and was a part of an extensive gate and fence system.
“The exact date of installation is unknown,” said cemetery sexton Wesley Ciampo, “but in a conversation with a descendant of the company’s founder, it is estimated to have been installed around the turn of the century.”
Continued on page 10
Photo provided
The proposed viewing platform at the terminus of Pioneer Street would be cantilevered over the Otsego Lake seawall, suspended by precast concrete piers, and would feature brick pavers, plantings, benches, and informational signage.
Photo by Caspar Ewig
Gate restoration is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
Voices of Cooperstown Re-Sound
By CHRIS KJOLHEDE
COOPERSTOWN
Alocal group of choristers had sung Handel’s “Messiah” and other holiday music for decades. For many locals here in the Cooperstown area, attending the concert at Christ Church was part of Christmas, part of their family’s traditions as much as the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus and the many white lights. The Voices of Cooperstown performances were typically sold out, were contemplative and yet arousing, and set the mood for the
rest of the holidays. The gothic revival sanctuary and luminaries made for a perfect setting. Formally dressed members of the choir, soloists, and a small orchestra gave a performance that was a highlight of the season. The COVID pandemic changed things. Choral singing was associated with the transmission of that illness and, thus, like for so many other things, the performance was cancelled. Much was unknown then; but things have changed. The Voices of Cooperstown is being reborn. Since October 1, more than 50 choristers have been rehearsing in antici-
29, 30 & Dec. 1
Support your local businesses!
Pick a poinsettia for 10% - 25% off your total purchase. A percentage of all sales will go to the local food pantry • Free Parking
pation of the rebirth of the Voices of Cooperstown. Brian Reynolds, the conductor, comes to us from Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta, where he teaches music. Tim Horne, a wellknown pianist in the area, has been rehearsing with the group and will accompany the chorus on piano. Peter Deysenroth will join for the performance and accompany on the organ. The chorus includes former members and many new voices—an essential, new generation of singers. The chorus will sing some pieces from Handel’s “Messiah” as well as traditional carols and several contemporary works.
The Voices of Cooperstown concert is scheduled at 4 p.m. on
December 14 at Christ Church Episcopal in Cooperstown. Members of the community can support this rebirth by attending the “resounding” concert. Admission will be by
donation (suggested $20.00). Additionally, gifts will be gratefully accepted; checks may be written to Christ Church Episcopal with Voices of Cooperstown in the memo line.
Everyone can help this musical tradition “re-sound”! Chris Kjolhede is helping the Voices of Cooperstown sing again.
Bassett Healthcare To Host Blood Drives in Oneonta, Sidney
OTSEGO COUNTY—Bassett Healthcare Network will host two American Red Cross blood drives. One will be held in the Levine Center at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta from noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4. The next will be in the second floor conference room
at A.O. Fox Tri-Town Campus in Sidney from 2-6 p.m. on Monday, December 9. Donation appointments may be made by calling 1 (800) 733-2767, visiting www.redcrossblood.org, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Photo provided
Voices of Cooperstown choir members warm up with conductor Brian Reynolds for the December 14 performance.
Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Speaks on Election Implications
By TERESA WINCHESTER
ONEONTA
On Monday, November 18, Pulitzer Prizewinning journalist David Shribman spoke at Hartwick College. His talk was sponsored by the Hartwick Institute of Public Service.
Shribman embodies a lifetime of work at leading newspapers (“The New York Times,” “The Boston Globe,” “The Wall Street Journal”), holding top positions at each one. As Washington Bureau Chief for “The Boston Globe,” he won the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for “Beat Reporting” on American political culture.
In 2019, following the shooting massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Shribman, then executive editor of the “Pittsburgh PostGazette,” published a front-page, full-width headline, in HebrewAramaic, of the opening of the Jewish prayer of mourning. The PostGazette subsequently won a Pulitzer Prize
for “Breaking News Reporting” for coverage of the massacre.
Shribman is currently executive editor emeritus of the “Pittsburgh PostGazette” and the J.W. McConnell Professor of Practice at the Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University. He also writes a weekly column, “My Point,” syndicated throughout the United States, and a biweekly column for “The Globe and Mail,” a Canadian daily newspaper.
Shribman’s talk, relatively brief and rapidly delivered, nonetheless revealed his encyclopedic knowledge of American history and the American political landscape. He easily drew upon more obscure historic occurrences and pithy quotes to make a point, for instance, when he quoted German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck (18151898) as saying, “The Lord gives his providential protection to drunkards, the mentally ill, and the USA.”
During the course of the evening, Shribman often equivocated on
Hill City Celebrations
ONEONTA
Hill City Celebrations is gearing up for the 2024 holiday season, hosting its annual Festival of Lights in Neahwa Park from December 14 through January 1. On December 31, Oneonta’s New Year’s Eve celebration will return to the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, offering free entertainment and light refreshments for the whole family from 5-8:30 p.m.
The Festival of Lights—sponsored by Five Star Subaru of Oneonta—begins at sunset on Saturday, December 14, and all are invited to enjoy the first lighting, hot cocoa, popcorn, Cosmic Karma Fire performers, and visitors from the North Pole, including Santa Claus. The festival will run every night through January 1, 2025. Admission is free and all are welcome to drive through Neahwa Park to enjoy dozens of light displays from area organizations and businesses.
“It’s our favorite
“I
the impact of the recent presidential election both in his talk and in taking questions, to which he offered responses such as, “You guys must think I know everything,” or, “You’ll notice the skill with which I evade most of these questions,” and, finally, “I’m just talking to answer the question, but I don’t know the answer, really.”
However, his talk began powerfully, when he stated, “An earthquake rumbled through the United States a couple of Tuesdays ago, and the world is feeling its aftershocks.”
His metaphorical language eerily evoked a 1919 work by American journalist and socialist John Reed, “Ten Days that Shook the World,” a first-hand account of the 1917 Bolshevik uprising that led to the overthrow of czarist Russia and the ascendency of Vladimir Lenin as leader of Soviet Russia.
In reference to the global tremors caused by the election results, Shribman named four other historical events, the implications of which
Gearing
were felt worldwide—the American Revolution, the French Revolution, the Bolshevik Revolution and Adolph Hitler’s election as chancellor of Germany.
“It’s too early and too facile to suggest that Donald Trump’s imminent return to the American presidency is one of those
events. But the significance of this election and the prominent and surpassing role that the United States plays in global economics, trade, geopolitics, and culture renders that a plausible notion.”
Drawing again on the earthquake metaphor, he asserted, “It’s incontrovertible that major
tectonic changes in the character of the United States are in motion.”
To this point, Shribman named the “pinions and structures behind world order” established after World War II—the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, NATO, and
Continued on page 11
Up for Festival of Lights, First Night
time of year at Hill City Celebrations,” said Connie Herzig, chair of the Hill City Celebrations Board of Directors. “The Festival of Lights has become a treasured holiday staple for Oneonta and its surrounding communities. On New Year’s Eve, our First Night celebration at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center has been a beloved family-friendly event for over two decades. Hill City Celebrations was founded as First Night Oneonta, and we are honored to carry on this
event as a tribute to our organization’s establishment, providing a safe, admission-free, family event as we ring in the new year.”
Hill City Celebrations’ First Night celebration on New Year’s Eve at the Foothills is free and will feature light refreshments, performances from local entertainers (including music from Bobby Curious; a demonstration from Harmony Martial Arts; and performances from area dance schools), children’s activities, juggling, balloon art, face-painting, the Hill City Ice Queen and Friends, and much more. Hill City Celebrations, formerly known as First Night Oneonta, is an
Continued on page 11
“When
Photo by Kezia Namakula
Hartwick College Institute for Public Service Co-directors Zachary McKenney and Laurel Elder, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Schribman, and Matthew Chick, also co-director of Hartwick’s IPS.
HOMETOWN Views
The More You Know...
When Iron String Press received the first e-mail from a concerned citizen who said they knew nothing about the Village of Cooperstown’s plans to install a cantilevered viewing platform at the terminus of Pioneer Street, we were surprised. It was not news to us because we had covered the village’s NY Forward $4.5 million grant process from beginning to end, and the viewing platform was one of a number of projects being considered for funding.
In our newspapers of November 2, 2023, we outlined the final list of projects being submitted to the state by the village in an article titled “LPC Finalizes NY Forward Priority List.” The viewing platform did not make it to Cooperstown’s Priority Project Slate for possible NY Forward funding; but it was one of four projects moved to the village’s “pipeline” for the future.
The viewing platform was also discussed in an August 31, 2023 article, “LPC Meets To Discuss Project Proposals.”
And on March 10, 2023, the project was described in the article announcing the NY Forward award, titled “Village of Cooperstown To Receive $4.5 Million Via NY Forward Program.”
According to the NY Forward grant narrative, “With design and engineering plans complete, the construction of an accessible Viewing Platform in Lakefront Park will provide greater access to Otsego Lake for visitors and residents. Located just one block from the Village’s Main Street via Hoffman Lane, this 2.6-acre dedicated park land has benefited from Village investment in floating boat docks, a boat wash station, and improvements to the Fish Road boat launch to provide greater recreational opportunities. The construction of an accessible platform will further improve access to Lake Otsego for all, particularly for non-boaters.”
Plans for the project have been in discussion at various village municipal levels since 2016, according to Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh. Tillapaugh said the project—some eight years in the making—was conceptualized as a result of public input, including the village’s 2018 Parks Survey and numerous public charrettes for the 2016 Comprehensive Plan, which emphasized the need for greater ADA-compliant accessibility and access to Otsego Lake via Lakefront Park for non-boaters, including a walking/fishing pier.
“It was from the [Comprehensive] Plan and the survey that the idea of an accessible, ADAcompliant viewing platform arose,” Tillapaugh said in an article we published on November 21, 2024. “As a result, the village applied in 2018 for a planning grant for the development of the concept, which will provide better visual and pedestrian access to waterfront within the Village of Cooperstown for non‐boaters of all ages and abilities.”
And, this month, on November 7, 2024, the Village of Cooperstown published a lengthy legal notice announcing an invitation to bidders “for the construction of a cantilevered wood platform and landscaping at the lakefront terminus of Pioneer Street and adjacent to Lakefront Park.”
So what’s the kerfuffle? Well, we continued to hear from folks who were deeply concerned about the project, including Pioneer Street residents who said they had never heard of it. Others said they thought the viewing platform construction was not planned until 2028. Still others said, as we ourselves thought, “It’s old news.”
We see two issues here.
First, although Cooperstown Village officials thought, as we did, that there was public awareness of—and public support for—the viewing platform, the passage of time seems to have wiped the project from the public’s collective memory. The village’s failure to reach out to Pioneer Street residents who would be directly impacted by the project has exacerbated public push-back against both it and the village.
Second, despite published descriptions of the viewing platform, the village’s clearly-stated intention in building the platform, and the documented history of the project, Cooperstown residents felt they were caught unaware. According to the New York Coalition for Open Government Inc., as of June 2023, only 7 percent of Otsego County municipalities livestreamed their meetings. Cooperstown is one of the three we can currently confirm—the City of Oneonta and the Town of Hartwick are the others. Unfortunately, the real meat of municipal meetings in general is not often reflected in the meeting minutes or even on the agenda. But in attending a meeting, or in viewing the meeting online during and after the fact, citizens can get a real sense of what is going on in their community and have the opportunity to participate if they are so inclined.
Iron String Press has no stance on the viewing platform either way. We do, however, believe that both village officials and village residents can do better moving forward—one at better informing and the other at being better informed.
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. Preferred length is 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.
THE mYTH buSTIng ECOnOmIST LARRY mALOnE
Are Republican Presidents Better for the Economy?
Now that we’ve entered the postelection weeks of November, it’s time to bust an oft-cited myth about presidents and the economy. The title of this column says it all—there’s a widely held belief that Republican presidents produce better results for the American economy than Democrats. So let’s test this claim with a close look at the last 50 years. We go all the way back to 1974, and the Presidential Administration of Gerald Ford. During the 50 years from then until now, Republicans occupied the Oval Office for 27 years, and Democrats for 23. The Republicans, and the total years of their presidencies were: Ford (3), Reagan (8), Bush I (4), Bush II (8), and Trump (4). The Democrats were Carter (4), Clinton (8), Obama (8) and Biden (3, to date). The granddaddy of all indicators of economic performance is whether the United States economy is growing or shrinking. A recession means negative economic growth, measured by a decline in the Gross Domestic Product. In the past 50 years there were eight recessions in the U.S., occurring over a total of 81 months, or six years and nine months. This means the American economy was in a recession 13.5 percent of that time. Republican presidents were in office for 68 months of recession compared to 13 months for Democrats. So, if one measure of performance is recession, Democratic presidents handily beat Republicans for growing the economy over the past 50 years.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR … In THEIR OPInIOn
Roos: What’s It
To Them, Anyway?
Letter To Trustees Re: Platform
A closer look at some major indicators of economic performance further debunks the myth of Republican presidential superiority on the Performance American Economy.
The average yearly growth rate of the GDP was 2.4 percent for Republican presidents, compared to 3 percent for Democrats. The edge goes to the Democratic presidents.
The average unemployment rate was higher for Republican presidents at 6.3 percent, compared to 6 percent for Democrats. Democratic presidents enjoyed another slight edge in having a lower average yearly inflation rate of 3.8 percent compared to 4.1 percent for Republicans.
The differences are sharper, and larger, in other key economic indicators. It was much cheaper, by a wide margin, to borrow money for houses, education loans, snowmobiles, motorcycles, and cars under the leadership of Democratic presidents over the 50 years. The Federal Funds Rate, which is the interest rate the Federal Reserve charges banks to borrow money, averaged 5.7 percent during Republican administrations and just 3.8 percent during Democratic administrations.
As I’ve noted in a previous myth busting column, there are a lot of weighty political claims when it comes to federal government spending, borrowing to spend, and the National Debt. The differences between Republican and Democratic presidencies over the last 50 years are especially striking when it comes to government
Continued on page 11
• The dock’s presence could disrupt aquatic habitats and alter the balance of this cherished natural resource.
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
H o metown oneon t a 2008 - 2024 16th anniversary & The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch
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Who are the six Village Board trustees? The six who said “no” to Hometown Heroes? One, the seventh, voted “yes.” The mayor. The mayor is the only name I am familiar with. The other names do not resonate with me as Cooperstown natives; so, what’s it to them? Just a technicality? Emotionless ink on paper? The difference in this issue is between cold excuses that benefit no one—and—the emotions of heartfelt family relations who have a desire for honoring [veterans].
If those who voted “no” are not related in any way to our hometown heroes of fathers, mothers, sisters, and brothers, or others, then why should they care, and why should they have a say in a vote that has no bearing on them?
I suggested banners across Main [Street] if only for November and December (Thanksgiving and Christmas). Small-town Cooperstown: “Smaller” than I ever realized.
Carole Rogers Roos Cherry Valley Cooperstown Native Daughter, Class of 1966
I am writing to express my deep concerns about the proposed viewing dock project, which I/we believe threatens the integrity, safety and character of our beloved village. Having lived at 20 Pioneer Street for over 24 years, we have never encountered a proposal that jeopardizes our way of life environmentally, economically, and in terms of community health—more than this one.
The issues with this project are numerous and far-reaching:
1. Environmental Impact
• Otsego Lake is our village’s primary source of drinking water, and disturbing the lakebed through construction risks polluting the water with sediment and runoff. Even if told the engineers’ system is to stop run off it’s only in theory and doesn’t take into account increased human pollution that could occur.
• Without regulation, the dock would likely attract activities such as fishing, grilling, and swimming, adding to pollution and potentially harming the lake’s ecosystem.
2. Safety and Accessibility Concerns
• The increased traffic on lower Pioneer Street, a deadend with no turnaround, poses significant pedestrian safety risks and will force vehicles to use residential driveways, causing disturbances to homeowners.
• More visitors in the area create additional challenges in an already congested location, further threatening the safety and well-being of residents and all pedestrians
3. Financial and Logistical Risks
• The project’s reliance on grant funding is precarious, as other grants in the past have fallen short due to shifting political priorities. Any budget overruns would place undue financial strain on taxpayers.
• Free funds associated with this project primarily benefit contractors, with little to no tangible benefit to village residents.
4. Preserving Cooperstown’s Unique Character
• Cooperstown has always
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by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
70 YEARs AGo
Last week in New York, three youths were arrested on charges of being narcotic wholesalers for onethird of Harlem. Police estimate that the ring of three youths and their minor peddlers were realizing from $2,000 to $3,000 in profits daily. Marijuana comes from the Indian hemp plant—an inoffensive looking weed, which can be grown unnoticed in any state in the Union. The tremendous profit motive encourages get-rich-quick opportunists to trade in illicit drugs. one of the largest groups which fall prey to these dope pushers are young people from all economic strata who are experimenting with the dangers and excitements of life. It may be an acceptance of a dare, or a futile and childish attempt by a boy to prove he is a man, but the result is a tragic, bitter addiction. Crimes committed in the wake of drug addiction range from shoplifting to murder. Narcotics are always expensive and to obtain money for them, an addict will risk his life or take another’s. There are both state and federal laws covering narcotics. some states levy more strenuous penalties than others. officers of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics assert that this nation cannot be effectively rid of the narcotic menace until all states pass equally severe legislation.
November 1954
50 YEARs AGo
since september, the oneonta state Campus security unit has helped 49 people who were locked out of their vehicles regain access. Another 150 people injured or ill were transported to the College Health Center or to the local hospitals by the department. other duties include traffic control, conduct of fire drills, and removing hazardous conditions. Two reports of missing persons have been investigated. Thefts on campus are down over the same period last year. officials credit this to students and faculty taking care to lock rooms and valuables. Parking issues and vandalism remain the most troublesome problems. Vandalism is treated as a crime against state property and legal action is taken. Campus security is on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The force includes 16 Peace officers, all of whom exceed minimum state requirements for training. Timothy McCarthy, director of security, believes that sUCo is “one of the safest colleges in the system.”
November 1974
40 YEARs AGo
Television viewers who want to install a satellite dish near their oneonta homes will have to meet a list of requirements if a proposed ordinance is passed next month by the Common Council. An ordinance proposed on November 6th would force homeowners to hide the dishes behind trees or fences, out of sight from public view. “I just think they’re unsightly,” said oneonta Mayor James Lettis. A public hearing is scheduled for December 4th to discuss the ordinance. Another public hearing would be held should council amend the ordinance. Under the provisions of the proposed ordinance, only one dish can occupy a lot with a maximum height of 12 feet and a maximum diameter of 10 feet. They must be at least 10 feet from property lines and cannot be located in a front yard. They must service a building in the same lot and must be screened from view by trees, a fence, or plants. Dishes can be roof-mounted if the diameter is less than three feet.
November 1984
20 YEARs AGo
According to a study conducted by Les Roberts for the Center for International Disaster and Refugee studies at Johns Hopkins University, more than 100,000 Iraqi civilians may have died since the war began in March 2003. In september, Roberts led a team that conducted 30 random interviews in 33 locations across Iraq. official estimates put the civilian death total at 16,000.
November 2004
news from the
Embrace Gratitude in the Midst of Difficulties
Audacious grati-
tude: An intrepidly bold and daring willingness to appreciate even the smallest things of life in the face of difficult circumstances.
When I write guest blogs or guest editorials, I typically write as Julie Dostal, the executive director of LEAF. When I was asked to write this one, I decided it was important for me to write it as just me, Julie. I am a wife, sister, dog-mom, public speaker, problem-solver, musician, photographer, and a woman in long-term recovery from addiction.
time I found that it was not. They were not asking me to disrespect my feelings. They were not even asking me to deny that something was amiss in my life. My friends and my peers were simply nudging me to challenge my thinking. Things can feel terrible AND I can be grateful at the same time. This is where audacity comes in.
It is that last piece of who I am that taught me about the wonders of audacious gratitude. I will tell you that there were times in my journey that if just one more of my recovering peers told me to write a gratitude list, I would have been tempted to throw the nearest solid object at them. Fortunately, I never did that. There was a lesson to be learned in the sage advice of those who cared about me. They were not telling me that I had to “feel” grateful, they were telling me that I had a choice to “be” grateful.
Wait a minute!?
I feel terrible. My circumstances are measurably terrible. I feel like huge parts of my life are terrible. And you want me to “be” grateful? (Insert a huff and tightly folded arms at this point.) Their advice may seem contradictory, but over
By MERL REAGLE
Friends…
I encourage you to look that word up. It’s a wonderful word that may have gotten a bad rap over the years. We might say, “Can you believe they had the audacity to…. (fill in your blank)?” on the other hand, acting with audacity is bold, and brave, and confident, and unrestrained. Those are awesome words. I aspire to words like those. Yet, I acknowledge that we are clearly living in unsettled times.
As we live in this post-pandemic era with various forms of grief, loss, restrictions, societal upheaval, anxieties, shortages, financial strains, and other very real-life struggles, being grateful may seem audacious. It may look out of place or inappropriate to those who witness our gratitude
Continued on page 11
LOCALS: PEOPLE/BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS
COOPERSTOWN—Tres Loeffler is this year’s Patrick C. Fetterman Award winner. This award is given annually by the Clark Foundation and the Clark Sports Center in memory of Patrick C. Fetterman, longtime associate director of the ACC Gymnasium. Recipients are honored for their dedication to serving local youth, especially in the area of athletics. Jane Forbes Clark announced the winner at a reception on Tuesday, October 15 at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, where she also honored past winners in the 34-year history of the award.
“This is a very special award for the Clark Foundation and for the Clark Sports Center, as it comes from our hearts,” Clark said. “Tres Loeffler absolutely embodies the three qualities that this award seeks to honor— outstanding sportsmanship, inspired leadership and caring service.”
Loeffler graduated from Cooperstown Central School in 1994. He has coached all levels of Little League, helped construct the baseball clubhouse in Hartwick, coached Cooperstown Youth Football for 10 years, served as vice president of Youth Football 2014-2021 and co-developed the Cooperstown Youth Football flag football program.
“His advocacy at the school board for Cooperstown’s football program when it was on their agenda to be cut in 2020 was instrumental in saving it,” Clark said.
Helios Care ‘Chip in Fore Hospice’ Golf Tournament Again a Success
ONEONTA
Helios Care hosted its longestablished “Chip in Fore Hospice” golf tournament on Wednesday, September 11 at the Oneonta Country Club.
This year’s tournament featured a captain-and-crew format, multiple contests throughout the course, and a putting competition. Participants had the opportunity to enjoy the scenic and demanding layout of the course, organizers said, while networking with other business leaders from around the region.
Sponsored by NYCM Insurance, the tournament is a cornerstone of Helios Care’s most significant annual fundraisers, with more than $48,000.00 raised in unrestricted funds for the organization to support hospice and palliative care patients in Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie counties.
The next tournament will move to Delaware County and will be held on September 17, 2025 at the College Golf Course at Delhi, officials announced.
The winners of this year’s “Chip in Fore Hospice” golf tournament are:
Men’s Net: 1st Place—Sterling Insurance (Steve Harris, Art Wallace, Duane Miller, Tim Snyder); 2nd
Fly Creek Cider Mill Raises $3,365 In Support of Cancer Patient Services
Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard celebrated its most successful Big Squeeze Day yet, raising $3,365.00 on Saturday, October 5 in support of patient services at Bassett Medical Center’s Cancer Center. The funds were donated to the Friends of Bassett and will directly aid cancer patient support services.
“This was by far the largest turnout we’ve had for our annual fundraiser supporting Bassett Healthcare. The weather was fantastic, and we sold 337 gallons of fresh sweet cider, with all proceeds going to Bassett,” said Bill Michaels, owner of the mill. “Our recent recognition as the Nation’s Best Cidery
Place—NYCM (Dan Robinson, Mike Perrino, John Holdorf, Jeremy Robinson); 3rd Place—Community Bank (Mike Walling, Brent Patry, Dave Weaver, Chris Clark).
Men’s Gross: 1st Place—OneGroup (Tim McGraw, Zach Brown, Vince Foti, John Mikolaicyk); 2nd Place— Fenimore Asset Management (Jesse Koepp, Peter Sweetser, Mac Davies, Paul Lesta).
Co-ed Net: 1st Place—Reggie Knight, Mike Jastremski, Connie Jastremski, Jeff Woeppel; 2nd Place— NBT Bank (Chris Slonaker, Sarah Waid, Lyle Smith, Ryan Hill).
Co-ed Gross: 1st Place—Bassett (Jeremy Pain, Vanessa Sheldon, Tiffany Sullivan, Andy Guiterrez)
Longest Drive: Wesley Meyers and Tiffany Sullivan.
Closest to the Pin: Paul Lesta and Jessica Granish.
Putting Contest (four tied): Zach Brown, Wesley Meyers, Lance Thomas and Bob Thomas.
“Helios Care thanks all those who participated and supported the tournament and we look forward to seeing you in Delhi next year,” said Dan Ayres, Helios Care president and chief executive officer.
by USA TODAY undoubtedly contributed to the event’s success, drawing in new visitors and cider fans who are eager to support our mission and community.”
Held at the peak of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Big Squeeze Day also featured a partnership with the Cancer Services Program, which provided valuable program details and early detection education.
“Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is proud to support critical local healthcare initiatives while sharing its awardwinning cider with the community,” Michaels said.
The Fly Creek Cider Mill, located at 288 Goose Street, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through December.
Clerk, Treasurer Earn Certifications
At September’s New York Conference of Mayors Fall Meeting in Saratoga Springs, the New York Association of City and Village Clerks formally certified Cooperstown Village Clerk Jenna Utter as a registered municipal clerk. At the same meeting, the New York Society of Municipal Finance Officers recertified Village Treasurer Debra Guerin as a credentialed municipal finance officer.
“The training and knowledge I received at this conference and throughout the past three years involved courses on records management, labor relations, environmental law, municipal administration, and the importance of transparency and accountability to maintain the public trust,” said Utter. “The certification process helped me gain the necessary knowledge and training to perform the duties of village clerk to the best of my ability.”
Treasurer Guerin echoed those
sentiments.
“In addition to the training opportunities that the village funded, I took courses at my own expense to earn the Credentialed Municipal Finance Office Certificate,” Guerin said. “They furthered my education and made me more knowledgeable and effective in helping manage Village financial affairs.”
Guerin is a director on the Board of the NYSMFO; she serves as third vice president of the society.
Village Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh applauded the initiative and commitment represented by the honors to Utter and Guerin.
“All of us on the Board of Trustees, and those who serve on our village boards and committees recognize and appreciate the importance of our Clerk and Treasurer. Their service and work ethic are examples to us and all village employees.”
Photo provided
Loeffler Receives 2024 Fetterman Award
FLY CREEK
Photo provided
Mark Kerby and Monique Misner of the Cancer Services Program accept a giant check from
Bill Michaels, owner of the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard.
Photo provided
Players on the putting green before the tournament starts.
SARATOGA SPRINGS
Photos provided
Cooperstown Village Clerk Jenna Utter (above left, at left) receives her certificate from
Elizabeth Dreaper, former president of the New York State Association of City and Village Clerks. Kristy O’Shaughnessy, president of the New York State Society of Finance Officers, presents a certificate to Village Treasurer Debra Guerin (above right, at right).
Hyde Hall Announces New ‘Dickensian Christmas-style Event’
By TARA BARNWELL SPRINGFIELD
Otsego County residents are in for a treat this holiday season. Hyde Hall has announced that it is offering Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tours, on Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15, designed for families, history buffs and holiday enthusiasts. For those seeking a festive, unique, and meaningful way to celebrate the season, creating cherished memories with loved ones while learning about Hyde Hall’s fascinating history is a must.
“This Dickensian Christmas-style event stems from years of visitor interest in a holiday-themed experience at Hyde Hall,” said John Aborn, Hyde Hall’s program manager.
“We’ve previously hosted holiday bazaars and seasonal vendor fairs but, this year, we wanted to offer something more immersive and educational. The Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tours invite guests to step into the charm and traditions of the holidays within Hyde Hall’s historically authentic and beautifully preserved setting,” he said.
Hyde Hall is known for its re-enactments of 19th-century happenings, such as the historic lighting and cocktails event, “Get Lit!”
“Our staff are experts on lighting from the 19th century who provide demonstrations, and we pair cocktails that were served during that period,” Aborn said.
“For this Christmas tour, we aim to transport guests to the elegance of 19th-century holiday celebrations in a grand estate like Hyde Hall.
“With 75 percent or more of its original furnishings, the mansion offers a uniquely authentic experience. This event embraces the simplicity and elegance of 19th-century holiday
traditions. Decorations are modest, reflecting the era’s aesthetic and adding to the charm of the mansion,” Aborn continued.
The mansion is unheated, so guests are advised to dress warmly and bundle up in coats, hats, and scarves to ensure they remain comfortable. To enhance the visit, special touches like a Make-Your-Own Hot Toddy Station and hot chocolate for kids will be offered, ensuring guests can warm up before stepping inside.
“The true shining star of the event is Hyde Hall itself—its majestic architecture, rich history and timeless charm. To add festive flair, we’ve secured an Arts in the
Community Grant to collaborate with local artist Carrie Mae Smith, who has created periodaccurate faux food displays unique to Hyde Hall in the 1830s,” Aborn said.
“Another highlight will be the stunning tree in the drawing room, decorated by Elizabeth Graham of The Pink Squirrel in Cherry Valley, which perfectly embodies Victorian holiday traditions.”
Although Fenimore Farm & Country Village (formerly The Farmers’ Museum) has replaced its Holiday Lantern Tour with Glimmer Nights, Hyde Hall’s Victorian Candlelight Christmas is not intended to replace that event.
“We don’t see this as a competition, but rather as a complement. Together, Hyde Hall’s Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tours and Fenimore Farm’s Glimmer Nights offer diverse ways for the community to enjoy the holiday season,” Aborn explained.
While Glimmer Nights provides a vibrant outdoor spectacle, Hyde Hall’s tours offer a historically rich, immersive experience that adds another layer of joy to this festive
time of year, Aborn said.
“As partners in our cultural community, we’re adding to the fun things families can do to enjoy this festive season both indoors and outdoors,” said Jonathon Maney, Hyde Hall executive director. “We’re confident visitors will leave with a magical and memorable impression of Hyde Hall during the holidays.”
For tour times and tickets, visit Hydehall.org or call (607) 547-5098.
Photo provided
Hyde Hall’s Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tours will be offered on Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15.
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Notice of formatioN of Excelsior Claims LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 6/28/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 202, Gilberstville, NY 13776. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalNov.28
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Notice of formatioN of Royalty Tobacco LLC.
Filed 9/5/24. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to 5626 St. Hwy. 7, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.
6LegalNov.28
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Notice of formatioN of VA LAKESIDE ESCAPES LLC
Article of Organizations filed with the SSNY on 8/19/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copies of process to 23 Maggiolo Dr., Pearl River, NY 10965. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalNov.28
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Notice of formatioN of Nelliston Storage LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on October 16, 2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 271 Texas Road, Springfield Center, NY 13468 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalDec.5
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Notice of formatioN of Mountain Magic Market LLC
Arts. of org. filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) 10/25/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail a copy of process to 164 Ed Herman Road, Schenevus, NY 12155. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalDec.5
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Notice of formatioN of The Hounds Cooperstown LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/14/2024
Office Location: Otsego County SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to P.O. Box 365, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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Notice of formatioN of 222587 Family AP LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/29/24.
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 190 Butternut Rd., Unadilla, NY 13849. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: BALLYKIS FARM LLC
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 18 October 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 257 Pope Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permit-
ted under NYS laws.
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY.
Name: RITTON’S CONSTRUCTION LLC.
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 5 September, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 2593 State Highway 28, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: ZETY ACRES LLC
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 5 September 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 356, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
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Notice of formatioN of Limited LiabiLitY compaNY:
The name of the limited liability company is: Hidden Creek Lodge, LLC (the “Company”). The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was September 25, 2024. 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
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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.
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of
1141 Lewis LLC
Articles of org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 10/09/2024. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 1141 Lewis, LLC, 1137 County Highway 11, Laurens, NY 13796
Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of W.T. Huntsman Painting, LLC
Article of organizations filed with the SSNY on 10/25/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copies of process to William Thomas Huntsman V, 8 Kearney Street, Oneonta, NY 10965. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of HILL CITY VENTURES LLC.
Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 05/15/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him to: The LLC, 113 Herrick Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of Limited LiabiLitY compaNY (LLc)
Name: Pleasantville Manor Holdings, LLC
Articles of organization filed by the Department of State of New York on: 08/20/2024. Office location: Otsego County. Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: The LLC, 4 Glen Avenue, Cooperstown, NY 13326
Purpose: Any and all lawful activities
6LegalDec.12
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Notice of formatioN of CRAFTED CUTS LLC.
Filed 10/29/24. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Brian Federico, P. O. Box 369, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: General. 6LegalDec.19
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Notice of formatioN of SOTO SOLUTIONS, LLC.
Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 10/10/2024. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 366 Larchwood Lane, Laurens, NY 13796. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act.
6LegalDec.19
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Notice of formatioN of MILLER LOVERS LANE LLC.
Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 11/4/2024.
The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him to: The LLC, 1277 Co. Hwy. 14, Mt. Vision, NY 13810. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.
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Notice of formatioN of Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Articles of organization of Bajocchi, LLC (“LLC”) filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on October 9, 2024, effective on the date of filing.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 31 Main Street, Suite #3, Oneonta, New York 13820, which shall be the principal business location. The purpose for which the LLC is formed is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the NYS Limited Liability Company Law. 6LegalDec.19
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Notice of formatioN of Oneonta Main Street, LLC,
Arts of Org. Filed 11/12/2024. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 16 N. 8th St., Fulton NY 13069. Purpose: Any Legal Purpose 6LegalDec.26
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Notice of formatioN of Tophoven Welding & Fabrication LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/14/2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC
upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 470 Stevens Road, Edmeston, NY 13335. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalDec.26
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Notice of formatioN of Next Chapter Mental Health Counseling, PLLC.
Arts. of org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/24/24. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against PLLC to 22 Watkins Ave., Ste. 107, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful act.
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Notice to bidderS
Sealed bids will be received as set forth in instructions to bidders until 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the NYSDOT, Office of Contract Management, 50 Wolf Rd, 1st Floor, Suite 1CM, Albany, NY 12232 and will be publicly opened and read. Bids may also be submitted via the internet using www.bidx. com. A certified cashier’s check payable to the NYSDOT for the sum specified in the proposal or a bid bond, form CONR 391, representing 5% of the bid total, must accompany each bid. NYSDOT reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Electronic documents and Amendments are posted to www. dot.ny.gov/doing-business/opportunities/constnotices. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that all Amendments are incorporated into its bid. To receive notification of Amendments via e-mail you must submit a request to be placed on the Planholders List at www. dot.ny.gov/doing-business/opportunities/constplanholder. Amendments may have been issued prior to your placement on the Planholders list.
NYS Finance Law restricts communication with NYSDOT
on procurements and contact can only be made with designated persons. Contact with non-designated persons or other involved Agencies will be considered a serious matter and may result in disqualification. Contact Robert Kitchen (518)457-2124.
Contracts with 0% Goals are generally single operation contracts, where subcontracting is not expected, and may present direct bidding opportunities for Small Business Firms, including, but not limited to D/M/WBE’s and SDVOBs.
The New York State Department of Transportation, in accordance with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation and Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 200, Title IV Program and Related Statutes, as amended, issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all who respond to a written Department solicitation, request for proposal or invitation for bid that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability/handicap and income status in consideration for an award.
BIDDERS SHOULD BE ADVISED THAT AWARD OF THESE CONTRACTS MAY BE CONTINGENT UPON THE PASSAGE OF A BUDGET APPROPRIATION BILL BY THE LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. Please call (518)457-2124 if a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the letting.
Region 09: New York State Department of
Transportation 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY, 13901 D265380, PIN 9M1025, FA Proj , Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Sullivan, Tioga Cos., BRIDGE WASHING - Various Locations., Bid Deposit: 5% of Bid (~ $125,000.00), Goals: DBE: 6.00% 2LegalNov.28
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Notice to bidderS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids will be received until 2:00 p.m. on December 12, 2024, at the Village Office at 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, New York by the Village Clerk of the Village of Cooperstown for the purchase of 35,000 gallons of No. 2 Heating Oil and 11,050 gallons of LP gas for heating. The successful bidder will be obligated to deliver the purchased oil and/or LP gas during the time period beginning January 1, 2025 and ending December 31, 2025. Specifications may be obtained from the Village Office at 22 Main St., Cooperstown, New York, Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or by calling (607) 547-2411. Bids must be submitted on or before 2:00 p.m. on December 12, 2024, in a sealed envelope addressed to the Village Clerk, Village of Cooperstown and marked “BIDFUEL OIL/LP Gas” and may not be withdrawn within thirty (30) days after the bid opening. Faxed bid proposals will not be accepted.
Bidders are advised not to rely on the Postal Service or any other mail delivery service for the timely and proper delivery of their bid proposals. The Village of Cooperstown reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Dated: November 27th, 2024.
Jenna L. Utter, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326
607-547-2411 (phone) jutter@cooperstownny.org (email) 1LegalNov.28
Glimmer Nights Show
Opens November 29th
COOPERSTOWN
tickets are now on sale for “Glimmer Nights” at Fenimore Farm & Country Village (formerly The Farmers’ Museum). This annual holiday light show opens the day after Thanksgiving, November 29, and runs Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through December 29. This year, visitors will find a larger selection of light displays, free carousel rides, themed evenings, and more. New, family-friendly ticket prices make this second season of Glimmer Nights even more appealing, and kids six and under are admitted free.
At Glimmer Nights, visitors will find a wide assortment of holiday light displays, starting at the site’s iconic Main Barn, where they can get a photo with the enormous Mega-Chicken light display before heading over to the Empire State Carousel for a free ride.
A short walk through the multi-colored lights of Rainbow Road leads to Fenimore Farm’s historic Country Village. There, the Tavern Green will be filled with a giant light display resembling a traditional quilt pattern. Visitors can walk among the larger-than-life flora of the Flower and Mushroom Garden display, stop at Todd’s General Store to pick up some 19th-century stocking stuffers, and then wander over to Bump Tavern to warm their toes by the fireplace while sipping a Crossroads Café hot chocolate. A memorable stroll through the Tunnel of Lights caps off the night.
This year, Glimmer Nights will feature themed evenings: “Dickens Weekend,” Saturday and Sunday, December 7-8, and “Wassail Evenings,” Friday and Saturday, December 13-14. Go to //FenimoreFarm. org/glimmernights for more details.
Glimmer Nights runs Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings starting Friday, November 29, and ending Sunday, December 29. Entry times: 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00, 6:30 and 7:00 p.m. (Grounds close at 8:00 p.m.) Tickets can be purchased online at FenimoreFarm.org. A limited number of walk-in tickets will also be available each night through 7 p.m. Tickets are non-refundable.
Glimmer Nights is sponsored in part by Bank of Cooperstown, a unit of Wayne Bank; C.J. Heilig Foundation Inc.; and NYCM Insurance. This project is supported through a Market New York grant awarded by Empire State Development and I LOVE NY, New York State’s Division of Tourism.
‘cookies and crafts’ to Return
ONEONTA—The Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta’s 37th annual Cookies and Crafts vendor fair will be held at 12 Ford Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 7. Local vendors will offer hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, mittens, clothing and African fabric to benefit Youchaou’s School in Mali. Food options will include corn chowder, vegetarian chili, muffins, and assorted holiday baked goods.
Oneonta
Continued from page 1
sented by eight elected Common Council members. When a seat is vacated between election cycles, the mayor has the privilege of nominating who fills the seat. Council members will have two weeks to consider this nomination and will vote to accept or reject the mayor’s recommendation on Tuesday, December 3.
Mayor Drnek also made a public apology to Carolyn Marks, who was sitting in the audience. She obtained approximately 137 signatures from members of the Seventh Ward to fill this vacancy.
Drnek acknowledged Marks’ service to the community.
“On a personal note… Carolyn, you are as dedicated a citizen as I have ever met,” he said. “You attend every meeting and you will volunteer when no one else does.”
He explained, “Because Carolyn Marks has gone on the record as being against this sale [of 27 Market Street], I can’t further complicate the decision by making it a required 6 of 7 “yes” votes for passage. Carolyn does not share my vision for the city, which is her right, but it is my obligation to nominate the candidate that I believe will be open to all sides, all points of view, and make a wellconsidered decision in every case and of every initiative.
“That is the litmus test for serving the Seventh Ward on the City Council. Therefore, I will not be nominating Carolyn,” Drnek said.
There is an opportunity for the public to speak at the beginning of each Common Council
meeting. Marge O’Mara, a resident of the Seventh Ward, spoke in support of Carolyn Marks. She also asked many questions concerning the impact of the debt service on the city’s budget from the controversial Market Street Project.
Virginia Lee, director of finance, provided the following numbers in an e-mail on November 23.
She said, “The city is receiving nearly $10 million in grant funding for the construction of the new Transit Hub. The local portion is approximately $1 million, a return of 9 to 1 for the community. The $6.5 million will fund the local portion of the parking garage demolition, construction of the new 47 Market Street parking lot, the reconstruction of Market Street and Water Street.”
“And speaking of Water Street…This is important,” Drnek said. “Those businesses have been devastated by months and months of endless construction.”
He is referring to tearing down the multilevel Water Street parking garage, another controversial topic.
“The construction and roadwork on Water and Market is just about finished and it’s going to be beautiful,” Drnek said.
Mayor Drnek announced a community celebration on a reimagined Water Street scheduled for Friday, December 6 from noon to 2 p.m., hosted by the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce.
Southside Mall General Manager Luisa Montanti was the second and only other member of the community to speak publicly on November 19.
She pleaded, “Council,
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vote down this budget. And stop spending money.”
“Major cuts have to be made,” Montanti continued. “It is the most difficult part of budget management but…we the citizens [who] voted for you entrust and ask you to make these extreme changes.”
Montanti made further references to what she perceives as the city leadership’s “lack of transparency, excessive spending, inefficiency, political motivations and unrealistic revenue projections.”
“The citizens of Oneonta demand and deserve a budget that has a plan of action to address all non-essential spending that’s fiscally responsible after making essential cuts that address the root cause of the problem which, in essence, is a very large city staff and administration,” Montanti said.
The 2025 tentative city budget totals $20,571,061.00, an increase of $1,187,614 from the 2024 adopted budget, or 6.1 percent.
Including current vacancies, the City of
Oneonta employs 205 people, among them police and fire personnel, bus drivers and maintenance workers. The 92page budget is posted on the city’s website for all to see. Wages and benefits constitute 70.57 percent of the 2025 general expenses.
Director of Finance Lee, confirmed, “We currently have 139 fulltime positions, six of which are vacant; 48 part-time, 11 of which are vacant; nine seasonal, eight of which are vacant (usually filled in the summer). The 205 total includes nine elected officials.”
“The city was struggling to recruit and retain talented and skilled employees due to the low salaries,” Lee explained. “Salaries were adjusted with Council approval, via union contracts or other agreements, to bring the city’s salaries to approximately 90 percent of the market median.”
Increasing salaries and associated benefits has been controversial, since expenses exceed revenues.
from Pg. 8
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Notice of formatioN of Van’s Machine Shop, LLC a NY Limited Liability Company.
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on November 11, 2024. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and SSNY shall mail process to Van’s Machine Shop, LLC at 455 Axtell Road, Maryland, NY 12116. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
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Village of
Milford, New York
Notice of ViLLaGe eLectioN
Please take notice that a Village Election for the Village of Milford will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 from Noon - 9 p.m. at the Village Hall
The following offices will become vacant April 1, 2025 and are to be filled at the Village Election:
One Village Trustee - Two Year Term
Village Mayor - Two Year Term
If you are interested in running for either position, Independent Nominating Petitions are available at the Village Hall or New York State Board of Elections website at www.elections. ny.gov.
Completed independent nominating
petitions should be delivered to the Milford Village Clerk at the Village Hall, 64 South Main Street, Milford beginning February 4, 2025 and no later than 5:00 p.m. February 11, 2025.
Kitty Ruling
Milford Village Clerk
1LegalNov.28
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Notice of orGaNizatioN of Salt Springville LLC under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law.
1. The name of the limited liability company is Salt Springville LLC.
2. Articles of Organization of Salt Springville LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on November 1, 2024.
3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.
4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 551 Salt Springville Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.
5. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: Salt Springville LLC, 551 Salt Springville Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.
6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.
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Need to publish a Notice of formatioN,
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Notice of orGaNizatioN of The Jungle Lounge LLC under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law.
1. The name of the limited liability company is The Jungle Lounge LLC.
2. Articles of Organization of The Jungle Lounge LLC were filed with the New York Secretary of State on November 1, 2024.
3. The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County.
4. The street address of the principal business location of the limited liability company is: 106 Brooker Hollow Road, East Worcester, NY 12064.
5. The Secretary
of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: The Jungle Lounge LLC, 106 Brooker Hollow Road, East Worcester, NY 12064.
6. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities.
6LegalJan.02
LegaL nOtice
Notice of orGaNizatioN of SBH Executive Management, LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New
Notice, supplemeNtal
York (SSNY) on 03/22/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 1174 Kelly Corners Road, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
EZ HOME SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES LLC
6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY.
Name:
ABM FIRE PROTECTION LLC
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 18 November, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 113 County Highway 26, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of KENYON CONCRETE AND EXCAVATION, LLC, Arts. of org. filed with the SSNY on 11/21/24. Office loc: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Jeffrey Kenyon, 1405 Kelly Corners Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.
Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
Articles of organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 21 November, 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 4857 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalJan.2
or Notice to bidders? Contact Larissa at 607-547-6103 or ads@allotsego.com and she can get you started.
Photo by Monica Calzolari
Marge O’Mara addressed the Oneonta Common Council on November 19 with questions about the debt the city is incurring with the Water Street and Market Street construction projects.
Continued from page 1
Comprehensive Plan and the history of the site. New York State Parks is “very particular about those kinds of details,” Haas said.
“That view at the terminus of Pioneer Street is a gem,” Haas continued. “The platform will not interrupt the view as you approach it. It will be cantilevered over the lake, and there will be some illumination underneath.”
The platform itself would be constructed of native ash, he said, and would be very sustainable.
“The deck area has clear tempered glass panels typical of decks today, very durable, and it would be suspended in the lake with [precast] concrete piers. Trash bins and benches will be the same make and model as those you see around the village,” Haas explained.
“We’re keeping the profile very low— expanding over the sea wall because the sea wall will not support the decking,” he added.
Haas said Delta Engineering had worked closely with both the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Army Corps of Engineers, neither of which saw any problems with the fishery or fish spawning.
The project could be “buttoned up” by the
end of May or beginning of June, Haas added, weather depending.
Members of the public in attendance had a number of questions for Haas and village officials.
Watershed Supervisory Committee President Bertine McKenna asked if Delta would be open to working with the WSC regarding plantings and possible impacts on the water resource, to which Haas replied in the affirmative.
Other questions and concerns pertained to the lifespan of the seawall, whose decision it was that a fishing platform would not be part of the project, and whether or not a private property owner would be able to build such a structure in a riparian zone. Perhaps the most interesting question posed was whether the tempered glass at the front of the viewing platform structure could withstand the pressure of ice floes, which Haas said did not occur on Otsego Lake but which members of the audience rebutted.
Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 2000 and a member of the village Planning Board, said, “I have serious concerns about this process. I don’t recall this being publicized,” to which Tillapaugh reiterated, “We received lots of comments. Work on this began in 2018. The 2018 park survey results
indicated residents did not favor a long pier.”
Pope also said she was surprised to see the project resurface as a “done deal,” based on its low ranking in the NY Forward community feedback.
A lot of the village’s communication was done via e-mail during COVID, Tillapaugh explained. “We received letters of support and held a public hearing.”
“Anyone who would like to see the plan materials can do so at the village,” Tillapaugh said.
Attorney Doug Zamelis said, “I go to a lot of meetings. It was not easy to find information on this project. The public hearing was combined with something else. I have reviewed the minutes and proceedings. No one spoke against [the project], but no one spoke for it.
“I have concerns with how the process went and how the review was undertaken,” Zamelis said.
Zamelis also spoke on behalf of Peggy and Wayne Hymers, who live at 2 Pioneer Street, at the end of Pioneer.
Pioneer Street is essentially a residential street, he continued.
need to set time aside at a future meeting, the date of which has not been decided, to evaluate with public interest at the forefront.”
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Cooperstown Board of Trustees is Monday, December 16 due to the holidays, Falk said.
Cemetery
Continued from page 1
Ciampo added, “If anyone has any information or old photographs about any aspect of the cemetery, we are always interested to add to our historical data.”
Since its installation, the gate and surrounding fence suffered deterioration from the elements, especially from the salt used to clear the adjoining roadway, cemetery officials said. Over the years, some patchwork was attempted, but a complete renovation was required to recreate the gate’s original grandeur. Unfortunately, although sections of the fencing have been preserved, the restoration project will be limited to the gate.
monuments is that of Hosea C. Williams, who was the ingenious citizen that came up with the notion of creating the water powered Fly Creek Cider Mill in 1856. In the center of the cemetery stands the Asahel Jarvis family obelisk. It commemorates one of the early Fly Creek families who, among other things, erected the first foundry and machine shop in the hamlet.
More contemporaneously, buried in 2007, is Violet “Buster” Weir, a
musical prodigy who, according to her obituary, first started performing with her father, “Pop” Weir, at the tender age of 4. And in 2017, at the age of 99, Lady Ostapeck, an internationally exhibited and published photographer, found her resting place in Fly Creek. Contributions toward restoration of the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery gate can be made to the Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association at PO Box 93, Fly Creek, New York 13337.
Main Street Stroll Set for December 3
COOPERSTOWN
Aholiday Main Street Stroll will highlight the December Welcome Home Cooperstown monthly gathering. “Meet & Greet and Stroll the Street” will be held on Tuesday, December 3 beginning at 4 p.m. at the Village Hall at 22 Main Steet, Cooperstown.
According to village officials, community members are welcome to begin the stroll at the Village Hall, where numerous festive activities are planned. Refreshments will be sponsored by Bassett Healthcare Network, and, weather permitting, a community firepit will warm the night.
In addition to manufacturing the cemetery gate, J. Wallace Page, founder of Page Woven Wire Fence Company, has another connection to the Cooperstown area and our national pastime in that he sponsored the Page Fence Giants, a Negro League team based in Adrian, Michigan between 1895 and 1898.
•
“This is going to attract a great deal more people…able to look into the upper floor of my sister and brother’s house. How have you buffered the impact to immediately adjacent property owners? I’m all for access,” Zamelis said, “but this doesn’t necessarily do much of that. What consideration was given to adjacent property owners who will receive the brunt of this? The character of the street is relatively quiet. The community didn’t really seem to know what was happening. Will the board step back?”
Peggy Hymers was one of the last audience members to speak.
“I was born here, grew up here. It is a beautiful vista at the end of Pioneer Street but [you can see] the same vista from The Otesaga and Council Rock. Why on earth do we need this whateverit-is right there in the middle of everything? We don’t need it.”
During the regular meeting following the Haas presentation, trustees tabled further discussion on the viewing platform project for now.
“There was no vote from the trustees,” Deputy Mayor Cynthia Falk reported on Tuesday, November 26. “We did not approve the low bid. The decision was not to act, in essence putting the project on hold. We recognized the concerns of the public and the
The Fly Creek Valley Cemetery Association was founded in 1875 as a nondenominational, non-profit organization to operate a cemetery on land that had been previously used informally as a burial ground. The original graveyard of approximately four acres was formally deeded to the association by Hannah T. Brownell in 1876. In 1915, the cemetery was expanded by an additional 6.1 acres, and a final conveyance of 10.5 acres by Catherine Allison in 1981 constitutes the present site.
The cemetery contains some 2,500 gravesites and has a capacity for an additional 3,000. Among the headstones are the famous and the colorful. One such example is the headstone and metal plaque with a profile portrait marked “Aeronaut Leo Stevens,” born in 1877. Stevens was a balloonist, a stuntman and daredevil, and early perfector of the free fall parachute, truly the stuff of legend. He seems to have had more narrow escapes than Houdini, but died peacefully in 1944.
One of the cemetery’s most visually appealing
The Village Library of Cooperstown will host holiday crafts and story time. Families can join Cooperstown Central School faculty and board members in decorating cookies. Live music will be provided by 18 Strings, and the Cooperstown Art Association will open their holiday show and sale for special evening hours. After enjoying snacks and fellowship at the Village Hall, participants are encouraged to follow the lighted path of luminaria down Main Street, where some 20 local businesses and restaurants will be staying open for holiday shopping until 7 p.m. As a special treat for families, Santa will open his cottage from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in Pioneer Park.
“Meet & Greet and Stroll the Street” is the final event of 2024 for Welcome Home Cooperstown, an initiative of monthly gatherings designed to bring together new area residents with longtime community members. The goal of the meet and greet is to welcome newcomers, assist them in building connections to established residents and institutions, and encourage them to make this community their permanent home. In general, events take place on the first Tuesday of each month. After a break for the holidays, the gatherings will resume on February 4, 2025.
Art Exhibits Open at SUNY O
ONEONTA—SUNY Oneonta’s final three art exhibitions of the fall semester are available to view during class hours or by appointment through Saturday, December 14. “Beyond the Classroom,” on display in the Martin-Mullin Gallery, features work by a dozen Art Department faculty members in a wide variety of mediums. “Little Blue Ribbon,” a solo exhibition by Assistant Professor of Photography Wesley Bernard, is on view in the Project Space Gallery. Another solo show, “Faces,” by art and design student Kento Igarashi ’24, will be in the Open Space Gallery. Admission is free and open to the public, and visitor parking passes are available through the University Police Department.
Holiday Parade Scheduled
UNADILLA—The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce invites all community members to participate in the Santa Parade on Friday, December 13. Line-up begins at the Exit 10 entrance, across from 123 Main Street, at 5:30 p.m., with step-off at 6. Children can meet Santa at the William Bauer Community Center after the parade.
Hurricane Benefit Planned
ONEONTA—DrumQuest and the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, will host a Friends’ Concert for Hurricane Relief from 24:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. A limited number of performer spots are still available for any musician, dancer, singer-songwriter or poet who wishes to contribute; contact Jimbo Talbot at (727) 692-6075 or jim@drumquest.com for more information. Admission is by donation, with no one turned away for lack of funds. All proceeds will provide food, water, clothing and shelter to victims of hurricanes Helene and Milton in Asheville, North Carolina and St. Petersburg, Florida. Donations may also be made directly to the 501(c)(3) organizations Beloved Asheville and Sacred Lands Preservation and Education.
‘Scoop it Up!’ Auction Returns
COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce’s fifth annual Scoop it Up! online auction will run from Saturday, November 30 through Monday, December 16. More than 20 local small businesses, organizations and museums will offer their products and services, swag and gift cards for holiday gifting. Visit 32Auctions.com for more information.
Dostal
in the midst of difficulties.
Actually, it’s medicine. And, like most medicines, one does not have to deny the aches, pains or fears in order for it to be effective. My doctor would never ask me to wait until a wound healed before I take the antibiotic. In this same way, audacious gratitude does not require me to feel better before caring for my spirit.
Being grateful is a cognitive, intellectual practice. It’s not hocuspocus, or magic. It is sometimes a choice I have to make in spite of how I feel. Audacious gratitude is daring to find life’s gifts even in the face of demonstrably terrible circumstances. Making an unexpected choice can reap unexpected rewards. As I practice the choice—and believe me, it takes practice—something remarkable happens to my spirit. It is like a balm or a healing salve that gives rest to my soul and to my mind. If only for a few moments, they are precious moments.
I find myself being consciously grateful for rain, and grass, and leftover broccoli (okay, that’s a stretch). I thank God for my husband, my favorite chair, a wonderful friend and music. I remember that I love purple, and birds, and the house with the beautiful Christmas lights. With that, my breathing slows, my mind rests, and my spirit finds comfort. I find there is a deep knowing that peace can exist in the midst of chaotic times.
I’ll take audacious any day. Julie Dostal is a hope advocate and executive director of LEAF.
Continued from page 4
Continued from page 5 borrowing and spending. Democrats added an average of 7.3 percent per year to the National Debt, but Republican presidents topped that Malone
by a wide margin in growing the National Debt by an average of 10.4 percent per year.
It also turns out, contrary to popular myth, that Republican presidents are the big spenders when it comes to the federal budget of the United States. Federal expenditures grew 8.7 percent, in an average year for Republican presidents, and just 4.2 percent for Democrats. That’s quite a difference, with the growth rate in federal spending for Republican presidents outpacing Democrats by more than 2:1.
We finish up this episode by taking down one of the biggest myths of all when it comes to the economic performance of presidents. Namely, a lot of folks believe that the eight years of Ronald Reagan’s presidency set the Gold Standard for national economic performance. To the contrary, the record of results make Reagan the worst president on economic performance over our 50 year comparison period.
A quick rundown on the averages for our major economic indicators over his eight year presidency crushes the Reagan myth. The average unemployment rate was 7.5 percent. The average Federal Funds rate was 9.6 percent. That’s why my first 30 year mortgage interest rate was 9.9 percent. GDP did manage to grow at an average annual rate of 3.5 percent during Reagan’s time in office, but inflation increased at an annual rate of 4.7 percent. And people think that post COVID inflation has been bad.
Even more problematic for the Reagan economic legacy was his record on federal debt and spending. During the Reagan Administration the National Debt increased an average of 14.2 percent per year, largely due to a 7.7 percent average increase in federal government spending each year.
POOF…there goes the myth of Reagan as the Champion of Small Government.
Stay tuned for more myth busting next time.
Larry Malone is professor emeritus of economics at Hartwick College.
Letters
Continued from page 4 maintained its charm by prioritizing simplicity and rejecting projects that compromise its quality of life, such as nighttime lights at Doubleday Field.
• Transforming the lakefront risks making Cooperstown a carbon copy of other small villages, undermining the unique qualities that make our community special.
5. Lack of Oversight and Control
• A public viewing pier would inevitably lead to unregulated activities—fishing, grilling, swimming—that disrupt the peace of the neighborhood, damage the environment, and create enforcement challenges.
6. Transparency and Accountability
• This project has been rejected before by both NYS and NY Forward, and the Village Parks Committee. Why is it being brought back again, and who continues to push for it despite clear opposition from state officials, committees, and the community?
We urge the board to prioritize preserving the character and integrity of Cooperstown over this unnecessary and potentially damaging project. Our village has always succeeded in finding solutions that balance progress with protecting its identity. This project is not one of those solutions.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We hope to see greater transparency and community involvement in addressing this issue moving forward. With the changing political environment we can’t
afford to move forward with “promised” money that may fall short.
Mary-Margaret E. Robbins Cooperstown
Hartwick
Continued from page 3
Marshal Plan—pointing out that “Trump is against most of them.”
Trump’s election for a second, if non-consecutive, term, Shribman maintained, sets in motion questions about major issues: civil liberties, economic policy, national defense, abortion, the status of minorities, and Trump’s own legal status.
Shribman also gave examples of how Trump has tested the limits of power—his attempt to overturn the 2020 election, his convincing of an entire political party and a good portion of the American public that he was robbed of that election, his incitement of the mob on January 6, 2021 which stormed the Capitol to prevent certification of the election, his four criminal indictments, including 34 felony convictions, for which he is unlikely to be imprisoned, and his vulgar language and bizarre behavior which seem not to have at all phased his supporters.
Trump may, however, encounter boundaries with his cabinet appointees, “who are nothing short of political outlaws,” Shribman said.
By appointing Trump loyalists rather than qualified candidates, Trump is showing his “contempt for conventional politics” and his “hostility toward government institutions.”
Shribman described Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s appointee for secretary of Health and Human Services as a “fringe gadfly in the matter of public health, “whose positions are at odds with most health professionals.” According to Shribman, Tulsi Gabbard, Trump’s pick for director of national intelligence, “faces questions about her friendly
OBITUARIES
views toward the leaders of Syria and Russia.” Matt Gaetz, nominated by the president-elect for attorney general, has, since 2021, been under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for a claim that he had sex with an underage girl, has used illicit drugs, accepted bribes, misused campaign funds, and shared inappropriate images on the House floor.
“He has the contempt of his peers,” Shribman said of Gaetz, speculating that “it is unlikely that Gaetz will be confirmed.”
Shribman’s prediction was validated three days later, when on November 21, Gaetz withdrew his nomination, stating, “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition.”
Whether Trump is the cause or consequence of negative attitudes toward women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and cultural polarization in general, was an underlying theme of several questions from the audience.
“There must have been tinder on the ground,” Shribman speculated, adding, “He did it brilliantly [flamed the fires of cultural populism], but he didn’t know what he was doing.”
In an evening of dire historical analogies and anxious uncertainty about the implications of Trump’s 2024 election, Shribman did manage to offer a ray of hope. He pointed to a poll taken by Harvard and Tufts universities which showed that young people agree on the issues of abortion, immigration, and LGBTQIA+ rights.
“I can’t wait for you to grow up. Your generation will bring us back to the center,” he said.
Audience reaction to Shribman’s talk was consistently positive.
“I’m honored that he took the time to hear me out. Hartwick should be grateful to have this opportunity,” said Colleen Long, a senior
music education major, who had asked whether Trump was causing or reflecting cultural trends.
“It was a great talk. It’s great to see how interested and engaged our students are,” said Laurel Elder, co-director, with Zachary McKenney and Matthew Chick, of Hartwick’s Institute for Public Service.
“It was an excellent presentation. He captured the historical significance of this election, an election that mattered,” said Bill Simons, SUNY Oneonta professor emeritus and former chair of its history department.
Perhaps Silence Baggesse, a Hartwick sophomore majoring in criminal justice and sociology, best summed up the major take-away from Shribman’s talk.
“We have no idea how Trump is going to act. It’s going to be different these next four years,” she said.
Hill City
Continued from page 3
organization whose mission is to promote and celebrate arts and culture in a family-friendly, alcohol-free atmosphere. A dedicated board of volunteers oversees Hill City Celebrations’ annual events. Thanks to donations from Five Star Subaru and other generous community sponsors, Hill City Celebrations is proud to offer free admission to its events throughout the year, including the Oneonta Festival of Lights, New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Foothills PAC, and the Hometown Fourth of July in Neahwa Park. Learn more by following Hill City Celebrations on Facebook.
Interested in setting up a display for the 2024 Festival of Lights? E-mail Hill City Celebrations at firstnightoneonta@ gmail.com by December 2, 2024. To learn more about being part of Hill City Celebrations’ entertainment line-up on New Year’s Eve at the Foothills, e-mail Sean Lewis at slewis@otsegocc.com.
Eric P. Ehrmann, age 66, an Army veteran, of State Highway 28 passed away on Sunday evening November 17, 2024 at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown. Eric was born March 30, 1958 in Herkimer, the son of the late George and Joyce LaVassaur of Tupper Lake. He was raised and educated in
Richfield Springs and a graduate of Richfield Springs High School. He married the former Tamra Canington, of Gainesville, Georgia in 1989. He served our country in the United States Army for 30 years, retiring in 2012. He served during the Persian Gulf Conflict and did tours in Iraq. He earned his way through the ranks as a lieutenant colonel. During his military career, Eric was awarded twice with the Defense Meritorious Service Medal; three times the Army Commendation Medal; the Army Achievement Medal; Meritorious Unit Commendation; twice awarded a National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars; Southwest Asia Service Medal; twice decorated with the Bronze Service Star; Global War on
Terrorism Service Medal; Humanitarian Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; twice Campaign Stars; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon; two times NATO Service Award; the Kuwait Liberation Medal; and he earned the Parachutist Badge. Eric furthered his
education obtaining his master’s degree in social work at Syracuse University, later working as the commissioner for the Albany County Social Services.
He is survived by his wife, Tamra; his Maltese, Maya; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by
his brother, LTC Gregory Ehrmann of the United States Marine Corp. Eric will be greatly missed by everyone that loved him, his great sense of humor and pride for his country.
Funeral services for LTC Ehrmann will be on Tuesday, December 3 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph Cemetery, Richfield Springs.
Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home, 40 West James Street, Richfield Springs.
LTC Eric P.
Photo provided
LTC ERIC P. EHRMANN
FUNDRAISER All day. “Tractor Supply 4-H Paper Clover Campaign.” Support 4-H programs, activities and scholarships. Continues through 12/15. Tractor Supply, 6396 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 431-9791.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m.
to 6 p.m. “Free Santa Letter Writing Station.” Continues 11/30. House of Consignment, 214 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-2827.
SENIOR COFFEE
HOUR 10 a.m. “Chilling, Chatting & Coffee.” Coffee, tea, pastries, games, puzzles, special events and good conversation. Held each Friday. Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Highway 11 Hartwick. (607) 2936600.
LIBRARY Noon.
“Stories Come Alive.” Reading for children aged pre-K through third grade. Must be accompanied by a caregiver. Themed craft available after the story. Homeschoolers welcome. Held each Friday. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 West Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0230.
OUTDOORS 1-3 p.m.
“Day After Thanksgiving Hike.” Presented by the Otsego County Conservation Association. Table Rock Trails, West Street, Oneonta. (607) 547-4488.
LIBRARY 1 p.m.
“Homeschool Hangout.”
Join homeschool families for stories, activities, crafts and learning. Held each Friday. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
BLOOD DRIVE
1-5:30 p.m. Unadilla Fire Department, 77 Clifton Street, Unadilla. www. RedCrossBlood.org
POTTERY
1:30-4:30 p.m. Open Studio. Experienced potters
are invited to work on personal projects and hone their skills. No instruction provided. $30/session. Held Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 6-9 p.m. on Thursdays. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@SmithyArts.org.
HOLIDAYS 4 p.m.
“Santa’s Arrival Night Parade.” Presented by the Cooperstown Community Christmas Committee. Main Street to Pioneer Park, Cooperstown. facebook.com/cooptownchristmas/
HOLIDAYS 4:30-7 p.m. “Glimmer Nights Holiday Light Show.” Tickets required. Held Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through 12/29. Fenimore Farm & Country Village, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1450.
HOLIDAYS 5 p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
►S At., Nov. 30 SMALL BUSiNESS SAtUrDAY
FUNDRAISER “Scoop It Up!” Online auction featuring more than 20 small businesses and organizations. Continues through 12/16. Presented online by the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce. (607) 547-9983.
HOLIDAYS 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. “Laurens Fire Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar.” Vendors, raffle, food and more. Laurens Fire Department, 34 Main Street, Laurens. (607) 433-2906.
BENEFIT 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Otsego Pride Alliance Rummage Sale.” Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-3491.
HOLIDAYS 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Holiday Bazaar.” Bainbridge High School gym, 18 Juliand
Street, Bainbridge. (607) 226-3993.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. “Free Santa Letter Writing Station.” House of Consignment, 214 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-2827.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Holiday Market.” Presented by the Worcester-Schenevus Library and the Second Chances Vintage Shop. Strawberry Hall, 174 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. “Adorn-aDoor Wreath Festival.” Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5479777.
EXHIBIT 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Multiples.” Featuring never-before-seen works in ceramics, painting, stained glass and more. On view Saturdays through 1/25/25 or by appointment. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 941-9607.
HOLIDAYS 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Holiday Market Pop-up at CANO.” Local and handmade gifts. Also held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on 12/7. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. canoneonta.org
ARTS & CRAFTS
1-3 p.m. “Introduction to Japanese Braiding: Kumihimo.” Fees apply; registration required. The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111.
HOLIDAYS 2-4 p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
MUSIC 7:30 p.m.
“Classical Music: Ensemble Intermezzo.” Dunderberg Gallery, 118 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2010.
►SUN., DEC. 1
HOLIDAYS Noon to 2 p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
ARTS & CRAFTS
1-4 p.m. “Nip & Sip Mosaic Tree Workshop.” Presented by Wendy Reich of Don’t Tell Stella Designs. Fees apply; registration required. 25 Main Collective, 21 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-4025.
HOLIDAYS 1-4 p.m. “Christmas at the Schoolhouse.” Middlefield School House, 3698 County Highway 35, Middlefield.
YOGA 3:30-5 p.m.
“Restorative Yoga Class by Candlelight.” Fees apply. Dunderberg Gallery, 118 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2010.
MUSIC 7 p.m.
“Oneonta Kirtan.” Held each first Sunday. Yoga Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta.
►MoN., DEC. 2
CONNECTIONS
10:30-11:30 a.m. “Oneon-One Tech Support.” Reserve a spot to get help using a personal device, from iphones to tablets. Held each first Monday of the month with Debra Miller. Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown.
HOLIDAYS 1 p.m.
“Christmas Card Making.” Registration required; suggested donations apply. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.
FOOD 4-6 p.m.
“Cherry Valley Mobile Food Pantry.” Open to residents of Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School District. Intake required. Bring reusable bags. Cherry Valley-
Springfield Central School District, 597 County Road 54, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-3265.
ART 4-5:30 p.m. “After School Art Program.”
Children aged 6-10. Held Mondays through 12/16. Fees apply; registration required. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. canoneonta.org
YOGA 6 p.m. “Hatha Flow Yoga.” Held Mondays. Fees apply; registration required. Cherry ValleySpringfield Central School, 597 County Highway 54, Cherry Valley. (607) 2643265 ext. 518.
GARDEN CLUB
6:30 p.m. “Make and Take: Holiday Wreaths.” Presented by the Oneonta Garden Club. Fees apply; registration required. St. James Church, 305 Main Street, Oneonta.
MUSIC 7:30 p.m.
“SUNY-Hartwick Orchestra Concert.” Anderson Theater, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta.
►
tUES., DEC. 3
COMMUNITY HIKE
9:45 a.m. Hike with the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment/water and be aware of your level of fitness. This week’s hike will be at Bramley Mountain, Glen Burnie Road, Delhi. Contact hike leaders Tom and Roberta Austin at (607) 435-8107.
HOLIDAYS
3:45-4:30 p.m. “Winter Arts & Crafts: Light-Up Holiday Cards.” Ages 812; registration required. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.
MEET & GREET
4-7 p.m. “Stroll the Street: An Evening of Holiday Spirit and Community Celebration.” Presented by Welcome Home Cooperstown. Includes fire pit, hot chocolate, live music, decoration station,
Santa visit, and candlelit path down Main Street. Meets at Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.
ART 4-5:30 p.m.
“Tuesday Kids After School Art Program.” Children aged 6-10 learn about ceramics. Fees apply; registration required. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. canoneonta.org
HOLIDAYS 5 p.m.
“Deck the Hall: Holiday Celebration 2024.” Presented with Stroll the Street. Includes performance by the Pathfinder Village Bell Choir. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, 25 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5477200.
MEDITATION 6-8 p.m.
“Osho Kundalini Meditation.” Fees apply; registration required. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. canoneonta.org
GARDEN 6:30 p.m.
“Make and Take: Boxwood Trees.” Presented by the Oneonta Federated Garden Club. St. James Church, 305 Main Street, Oneonta.
HOLIDAYS 7 p.m.
“The Gift of the Magi.” Presented by Saturday’s Bread. Free; donations gratefully accepted to support this year’s Friends of Christmas Community Dinner. First United Methodist Church of Oneonta, 66 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. friendsofchristmas.org/ magi
MUSIC 7:30 p.m.
“Hartwick College Opera & Musical Theatre Scenes Concert.” Anderson Theater, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta.
►WED., DEC. 4
SUPPORT 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Half off everything except priced jewelry and furniture. Christmas items will not be on sale. Every first and third Wednesday. Helios Care Thrift Shop & Boutique, Price Chopper Plaza, 5626 State Highway 7, Oneonta. (607) 432-5335.
STORYTIME 10 a.m. Library staff read storybooks to children aged 3-5. Held each Wednesday. Springfield Library, 129 County Road 29A, Springfield Center, (315) 858-5802.
WORKSHOP 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “The Violet Backpack Class.” Two sessions. Fees apply; pre-registration required. Continues 12/11. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 441-3111.
CRAFT 3 p.m. Crochet Group. Bring a project to work on or come and learn. Held each Wednesday. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 3977309.
