Bassett Stops Changes to Retiree Benefits
By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN
Our concerns were heard.”
The relief must have been palpable as Bassett Healthcare Network retiree Jan McGrath listened to a voice mail left by Bassett President and Chief Executive Officer Staci Thompson, MHA, FACMPE late Friday afternoon, December 6.
Only hours before, McGrath was one of more than two dozen Bassett Healthcare Network retirees who met on Thursday, December 5 to discuss unexpected changes to their Medicare Supplemental Plan, when words like “disappointed,” “betrayed,” “angry” and “shocked” were used over and over again.
A letter signed by Brenda Laughlin, Bassett’s chief human resources officer, reads: “We are writing to inform you of important updates to your Nova Healthcare Medical Supplemental Plan that will take effect on January 1, 2025. We understand that medical plan costs are an important part of your annual
financial planning, so we want to be sure you are equipped with information about these plan updates ahead of the upcoming year.”
The letter was dated November 11, just 26 days before the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period ended on December 7 and almost a month after open enrollment began on October 15.
“This change may have seemed inevitable given network’s financial situation,” one retiree said, “but this didn’t just happen a month ago. It has obviously been in the works for some time.”
Prior to the changes announced as of the first of the year, Bassett retirees—based on age and service requirements—were not required to pay any out-of-pocket costs for the NOVA plan. In previous years, Bassett covered 100 percent of the $155.00 monthly Nova premium as well as 100 percent of the copays for services provided within the Bassett network, with a $100.00 deductible.
As of January 1, however, retirees on the NOVA plan had been notified that they would be required to
pay a monthly cost of $55.00, or 35 percent of the monthly premium. Copays start at $10.00 for a visit to a Primary Care provider or Urgent Care and range from $20.00 to see a specialist to $100.00 for an emergency room visit.
“This is money I didn’t plan on having to spend,” said McGrath, who retired in 2016 with nearly 47 years of full-time employment at Bassett.
McGrath, Bassett’s former human resources benefits specialist, is uniquely positioned to question this change in policy. In a letter to Laughlin dated November 25, McGrath wrote:
“It has taken several days to digest the unwelcome news that Bassett has decided to start collecting part of the Nova Medicare Supplemental premium from those of us who were covered at 100% Bassett-paid premium. In the Retiree Medical Policy change of 1/1/1992 it stated that active employees with 20 years of fulltime service at that time would be grandfathered into the Medicare
Continued on page 9
More Work To Be Done To Cut Expenses
By MONICA CALZOLARI
Common Council initially declined to pass the tentative 2025 budget that they had approved on November 19.
When put to a second vote, six of the seven council members consented to pass the 2025 budget of $20 million, with the caveat that there would be future budget cuts and solutions to cover the deficit while drawing down less of the reserves.
Eighth Ward representative Don Mathisen remained resolute in opposing the budget, voting no a second time.
Kaytee Lipari Shue, Fourth Ward, Len Carson, Fifth Ward, Scott Harrington, Sixth Ward, and Mathisen all voted against the tentative 2025 budget the first time around. A vacancy in the Seventh Ward automatically counts as a
“no” vote.
Those five “no” votes outweighed the three “yes” votes by Elayne Mosher Campoli, Cecelia Walsh-Russo and Shannon McHugh, who represent the First, Second and Third wards, respectively.
When Carson moved to reconsider passing the budget, David Merzig— attorney for the City of Oneonta for the past 38
years—instructed the council that a second motion, discussion and a second vote is permissible.
A heated discussion and debate ensued, during which tensions ran high.
Mosher-Campoli sought a compromise from her dissenting council members.
“This is very disap-
on page
Two Sluggers Headed to the Baseball Hall
COOPERSTOWN
ick Allen, a seven-time All-Star and two-time home run champion, and Dave Parker, a twotime batting champion and the owner of two World Series rings, earned election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, December 8 via the Classic Baseball Era Committee process.
Allen and Parker were candidates on the Classic Baseball Era Committee Ballot, which was considered by a 16-member committee that held meetings on Sunday in Dallas.
Parker was named on 14 of 16 ballots and Allen on 13 of 16 ballots as the only candidates to reach the 75-percent threshold necessary for election.
Parker, who is 73, and Allen, who passed away in 2020, will be joined in the Hall of Fame Class of 2025 by any electees who emerge from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America voting, which will be announced on Tuesday, January 21.
Allen played 15 seasons for the Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, White Sox, and Athletics, totaling 351 home runs and 1,119 RBI. He won the 1964 National League Rookie of the Year Award with the Phillies and was named the 1972 American League Most Valuable Player with the White Sox. He reached the 20-home run mark in nine straight seasons and 10 overall while leading his league in slugging percentage three times, extra base hits three times and on-base percentage twice.
Parker was named to seven All-Star Games in his 19 seasons, winning back-to-back NL batting titles in 1977-78 while earning league MVP honors in the latter year. A key member of the Pirates World Series champions in 1979 and the Athletics World Series winners 10 years later, Parker led his league in total bases three times and slugging percentage twice. A three-time Gold Glove Award winner in right
Photo courtesy of National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Dave Parker (above) and Dick Allen will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame next summer.
Photo by Monica Calzolari
Social Studies Group To Meet ONEONTA—A.T. Socio-Judicial Consulting’s “Social Studies in the Park” program will hold an event in the Community Room next to JCPenney in Southside Mall at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. Parents, children and community members are invited to this non-political event to discuss civic responsibilities and educate children on the law and their roles in the community. There will be free food and fun activities. Additionally, a child will receive a $100.00 cash prize for reciting and explaining the preamble to the U.S. Constitution.
Dalton To Speak on Sunday
COOPERSTOWN—Friends of the Village Library of Cooperstown will hold its next Sunday Speaker Series event in the third floor ballroom of Village Hall, 22 Main Street, from 3-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 15. Dr. James Dalton, a physician and retired director of medical education at Bassett Healthcare Network, and Kelly McGraw, senior director for community engagement and growth at Helios Care, will discuss hospice and palliative care. All Sunday Speaker events are free and open to the public.
Community Bank Wins Award
DEWITT—The American Heart Association awarded Community Bank silver recognition in the “2024 Well-being Works Better Scorecard,” a measurement of healthy workplace culture. Organizations can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum honors based on their adherence to the association’s science-backed recommended practices in areas such as health equity, burnout prevention, compensation and benefits, and more. For more information, visit https://www.wellbe-
ingworksbetter.org/.
Community Bank also released its list of local charitable activities for the 2024 holiday season. Each of its branches sponsors or hosts drives for local nonprofits each year. For instance, the Oneonta branch will collect winter clothing for Family Services of Oneonta, and the Delhi branch is collecting children’s toys for Toys for Joy.
Priest Sought for Pilgrimage
WEST WINFIELD—A Catholic priest is needed for a spiritual pilgrimage to France, Portugal and Spain in fall of 2025. He will serve as spiritual leader of the group, with sole responsibility for hearing confessions and celebrating Mass. All of his expenses will be fully paid during this adventure of a lifetime.
The pilgrimage is organized through Unitours Inc. of Port Chester, specialists in Catholic pilgrimages since 1957. Lisa Wellenstein of West Winfield is coordinating the trip locally. Priests or other interested participants should call or text Wellenstein as soon as possible at (315) 868-7372.
Historical Society Re-forms
COBLESKILL—The rejuvenated Cobleskill Historical Society will finish electing officers for the new year at its next meeting, held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension building, 173 South Grand Street, Suite 1, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 9. The society went on hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, but a small group of members revived it on December 2. Former members are strongly encouraged to renew, and new ones are always welcome. Dues are $10.00 for the year. At the December meeting, members elected Richard Frank as vice president and Christopher Baron as secretary
and treasurer. Tim Snyder and Frank were elected to three-year terms on the Board of Directors, with Snyder serving as chair. Dana Cudmore was elected to a one-year term on the board, and Pete Lindemann continued as town historian and ex-officio board member. Three director seats and the presidency will be filled at the January meeting. Following the business meeting, Cudmore will speak on “Farming with Dynamite: The Forgotten Stone Boom in Schoharie County,” based on his new book of the same name.
Rotary Seeking Vendors
COOPERSTOWN—The Rotary Club of Cooperstown will host a Frosty Fling in conjunction with the Cooperstown Winter Carnival in St. Mary’s Parish Hall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 1. New and returning artisans and vendors are invited to participate. This indoor event features free parking, easy setup and access to signage directing customers from Main Street. Registration is $35.00 for an 8foot table, with electricity available. To make a vendor inquiry, send your name, business name, phone number and questions to Kate Evans at kathleenevans222@gmail.com or call (607) 547-6108.
Drive Supports Food Pantries
SCHENECTADY—Market 32/Price Chopper has launched a holiday season charitable drive to support local food banks across its area of operation. Customers are invited to purchase $10.00 prepackaged bags with PICS brand items most needed by pantries. Bags will then be donated to the store’s local food pantry, allowing customers to help out their own friends and neighbors. Donation bags will be displayed at the front of each store with signage indicating the beneficiary organization. For more information, visit www.pricechopper.com.
Coop Sports Wrapped
COOPERSTOWN
Cooperstown boys basketball rolled to an 89-57 victory over West Canada Valley in their opener at Red Bursey Gymnasium on Friday, December 6. Junior Miles Nelen put away 28 points, a personal record, including five three-pointers. Junior Jackson Crisman scored 14 points and senior Cooper Coleman scored 12. Cooperstown girls basketball fell to Unatego 45-36 in their season-opening Delaware Academy Tournament game on Friday, December 6. Junior Katie Crippen and seniors Polly Kennedy and Brenna Seamon scored six points each. The Hawkeyes defeated Delaware Academy 45-31 the next day, led by Mia Kaltenbach’s 13 points and Emma Johnson’s 11. Seamon achieved a double-double with 16 points, 11 rebounds and four steals in Cooperstown’s 50-48 victory over Dolgeville on Monday, December 9. The Hawkeyes trailed 2415 at the half but put up a 17-7 third quarter for a nail-biting win. Seventh grader Emma Johnson scored 15 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Cooperstown volleyball swept Waterville 25-18, 25-9 and 25-17 in their opener at home on Tuesday, December 3. Seniors Sophia Badgley, Grace Sperry, and Alissa Thayer made seven kills each, and Badgley added six digs to the performance. Alexis Wolfe made 27 assists and four aces. Josie Furnari made 17 digs.
Cooperstown swept Owen D. Young/ Richfield Springs 25-12, 25-10 and 25-20 at home on Monday, December 9.
Continued on page 10
Matching Challenge Doubles Food Pantry Monetary Donations
Now through the end of the year, monetary donations to the Cooperstown Food Pantry up to $15,000.00 will be doubled, officials announced last week.
“There’s increased need for the food pantry as people face high prices for housing, food, and childcare, and with the coming winter heating costs,” explained Will Kleffner, executive director of the pantry, which serves food-insecure individuals and households throughout Otsego County.
Understanding this need, The Scriven Foundation is providing a match of up to $10,000.00 through December 31. An anonymous donor will match an additional $5,000.00 on top of that, resulting in a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $15,000.00, with a total of $30,000.00 possible.
“The timing of the match from The Scriven Foundation and the donor couldn’t be better for the pantry and the families we serve,” Kleffner said.
Through the Cooperstown Food Pantry, Otsego
County residents in need can receive a monthly distribution of food, including fresh produce, frozen meat, and fresh dairy. The pantry purchases food from the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York in Latham, Kleffner said, where they can get $10.00 worth of food for each $1.00 spent.
“That is why cash donations help us the most,” he said.
Thus far this year, the pantry has served an average of 634 people per month—a 35 percent increase over 2023. Kleffner noted that 13 percent of Otsego County residents live below the federally-established poverty level and that 43 percent of K-12 students receive subsidized school lunches.
Those who would like to support the work of the food pantry and take advantage of this matching challenge can donate via PayPal at cooperstown-
foodpantry.org
to the Cooperstown Food Pantry at 25 Church Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
This Holiday Season
HOMETOWN Views
Get Your Holiday On
Let’s face it—2024 has been a tough one. We have watched as there have been not one, but two assassination attempts on a past and future president. We’ve seen a healthcare official gunned down in the street. We’ve weathered a contentious election which divided—and continues to divide—family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. We’ve witnessed the loss of countless lives as the fighting in the Middle East continues to escalate. And we have said goodbye to beloved community members, taken from us too soon.
As we bandied about ideas for this week’s editorial, there were plenty from which to choose. The ongoing plight of rural healthcare. The need for increased transparency by local governments. Municipal officials fighting amongst themselves and in public. The uncertainty of what’s to come in 2025.
We chose none of those. We opted instead to highlight the wonderful diversions available to us this holiday season; to point out events coming up in the days to come that everyone can enjoy, right here in Otsego County, which will help put 2024 behind us as we move ever closer to the new year.
On Thursday, December 12, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center in Oneonta will host the “Rock This Town Orchestra: Swingin’ through the 50s and 60s Christmas Spectacular.” The performance begins at 7 p.m.; doors open an hour earlier.
Are the kids clamoring for a visit with Santa? On Friday, December 13, the jolly old elf can be found in Cooperstown from 3-5 p.m. at his cottage in Pioneer Park. From 5-7 p.m., he can be found in Oneonta’s Muller Plaza. And in between—like so much Christmas magic—Santa will make an appearance on Main Street Unadilla, for the Santa parade at 6 p.m. (tree lighting at 5).
For those who enjoy the festive holiday lights of the season, Fenimore Farm & Country Village reprises its “Glimmer Nights Holiday Light Show” Thursday through Sunday evenings through December 29 from 4:30-7 p.m. Across the county, in Morris, the Otsego County Fairgrounds will feature the “Holiday of Lights,” complete with Santa’s village, kissing bridge, hot cocoa bar, and more from 6-8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, December 13 and 14 and again December 20-23.
Love to shop and still need to pick up a few gifts for the holidays? On Friday, December 13, there will be a Holiday Craft Fair in SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union beginning at 9 a.m. and, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Southside Mall will host a Christmas Makers Market.
Santa’s busy schedule continues on Saturday, when he will be holding court at his Cooperstown cottage from 2-4 p.m. Then, at 4 p.m., Voices of Cooperstown will perform a “Choral Christmas Concert at Christ Church on River Street. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. And at 5:30 p.m., folks can head north of the village to “Hyde Hall’s Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tour,” a Dickensian-style event highlighting, among other things, historical holiday customs and a make-your-own hot toddy station (hot chocolate available for the little ones).
Not to be outdone, Saturday is also the opening night of the “2024 Oneonta Festival of Lights,” presented by Hill City Celebrations in Neahwa Park, with Cosmic Karma Fire performers and visitors from the North Pole. Can’t make it that day? Not to worry—the Festival of Lights will be on view through New Year’s Day.
On Sunday, December 15, Kris Kringle will make an appearance at the “Mount Vision Fire Department Breakfast with Santa,” from 8-11 a.m. and, in Burlington, a “Community Christmas Cantata” will be performed at 2 p.m. and again at 4 p.m. at the Burlington Flats Baptist Church, 101 Arnold Road.
Coming up next Tuesday, December 17, folks can get their holiday on at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, where 24 local farmers, artisans, crafters, and food producers will sell their wares in Pioneer Alley from 3-7 p.m. The event will feature free mulled cider, a make-and-take craft for kids, a gift-wrapping station, and live music with Fast Friends. In addition, a number of Cooperstown businesses will be open until 7 p.m. that evening, with luminaries to light the way for shoppers.
These are but a few of the ways individuals, families, and friends can leave their worries behind for a little while and enjoy the holidays in the days to come. Check out our community calendar on AllOtsego.com for a host of other holiday-related activities, including workshops, concerts, crafts, gallery events and more.
Whatever you do, wherever you go, please remember to stop, breathe deeply, and take a moment to enjoy the lights and decorations, the good food and fellowship, the music, and the laughter. And remember—there is still good in the world, starting right here in Otsego County.
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.
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
a publication of Iron String Press, Inc.
Publisher / Advertising Manager Tara Barnwell
General Manager / Senior Editor Darla M. Youngs
Sales Consultant: Randy Christian Office Manager: Larissa Ryan Interns: Arya Patel and Sarah Roberts
Columnists and Contributing Writers Terry Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Karolina Hopper, Wriley Nelson, Joel J. Plue, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin
Web Architect
Xander Moffat Historian Tom Heitz/Sharon Stuart
Editorial Board
Why Cooperstown?
Why Cooperstown? Let us count the whys (as I see them):
Because strangers are apt to greet each other on the street. That’s why.
Because of the majestic lake and its magic vapors. That’s why. Because in the summer, one can attend a baseball event at Doubleday Field in the afternoon and take in an opera performed by some of the most notable voices in the world at the Glimmerglass Festival in the evening. That’s why.
Because the farmers’ market is open in every season all year long. That’s why.
Because of the vibrant arts activity, to include visual art, chamber music, the aforementioned opera, theater, and readings dotting the calendar. That’s why.
Because of the wide range of gastronomic delights to suit any wallet throughout the village, from Italian to Indian to Japanese to classic American, you name it. That’s why.
Because pedestrians, more often than not, acknowledge a car courteously stopped at the crosswalk. That’s why.
Because there are people comfortable enough not to lock their doors or take the key out of their car. That’s why.
Because there are opportunities for the public for golf, tennis, swimming and ice skating. That’s why.
Because the Clark Foundation provides a plethora of scholarships for local students far and wide. That’s why.
Because Bassett Hospital sees to the health of the population throughout the region. That’s why.
Because there are two, count them, two weekly newspapers keeping us abreast of doings right here in the village. That’s why.
Because there is a daily bus, if needed, to New York City 12 months of the year. That’s why.
Because architecturally and in the layout of the streets, our village is as beautiful and tranquil as you could want to find anywhere. That’s why.
Stay tuned for more whys in future issues. And in the meantime, celebrate the holidays with gusto and have a happy 2025!
Sam Goodyear was born in Cooperstown and, because of his father’s profession in the Foreign Service, grew up all over the world and continued that pattern throughout his adult life until two years ago, when he returned to where he was born. It took him only 80 years to do so.
New York State Department of Labor Announces New Contractor Registry
ALBANY—The New York State Department of Labor announced a new law governing contractors and subcontractors that will take effect on Monday, December 30. Those who submit bids or perform construction work on public projects or certain covered private projects will be required to register with DOL, providing a new accountability mechanism for public funding. Impacted contractors and subcontractors should obtain a Certificate of Registration as soon as possible to avoid delays in the bidding process or project schedules. For more information or to register, visit https://dol. ny.gov/public-work-contractor-and-subcontractor-registry-landing.
Viewing Platform Not Necessary
Extending a platform out over the lake will not improve the view that is literally a few feet back. There is a path and a bench that provide a view for anyone who can reach them. It is possible to access the path and the bench at the beginning of the summer. It becomes difficult by the end of the summer because of the plantings there. Many are tall and flop over when they reach their full height. All of that can change.
that should be considered. Second, plantings can be chosen that do not obliterate the path through the summer season. If you wish to keep the taller plants, they can be moved back from the path. The possibilities are endless, including no planting at all on the edge of the path. As a Cornell Master Gardener, I can put the village in touch with my volunteer colleagues who can aid in the selection of plants that are easily maintained by the village workers, that look beautiful, and that do not encroach on the accessibility of the path.
Biden Pardon Is Thanks To Trump
For the past several years, Donald Trump has complained incessantly about his mistreatment at the hands of federal and state law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and judges. He and his minions have whined that Trump has been the subject of “witch hunts,” selective prosecutions for fabricated charges, and trivial offenses. President Biden parroted many of these alleged prosecutorial abuses as the basis for pardoning his son.
Legal Counsel Jill Ann Poulson
Tara Barnwell, Faith Gay, Michael Moffat, Elinor Vincent, Darla M. Youngs
MEMBER OF:
National Newspaper Association, New York Press Association
The Otsego County Chamber
Published Thursdays by Iron String Press, Inc.
21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326
Telephone: 607-547-6103. Fax: 607-547-6080. Email: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com Contents © Iron String Press, Inc.
Accessibility to the edge of the lake is as simple as good design of existing structures. First, ensure that the path is truly accessible. Today, accessibility is possible on many surfaces that would be considerably less expensive than a platform that requires footings dug into the lakebed. The garden at the Cornell Cooperative Extension on Lake Street has an accessible surface of gravel that was poured into grids that hold the gravel firmly enough to allow people with wheelchairs and walkers to travel through the garden. There are many surfaces at many price points
I have been doing old house restoration since the age of 34. About the age of 35, I realized that if I thought about a problem long enough, I could figure out a way to leave it alone. That was most often the least expensive solution, by the way. Case in point, Lakefront Park has a view. We won’t change that with a viewing platform and we won’t improve that with a viewing platform. So, let’s leave it alone. Let’s ensure an accessible path with plantings that don’t interfere with that accessibility.
Celia Oxley Cooperstown
In this season of thanksgiving and good will to all, here’s hoping that Hunter Biden sends Donald Trump a thank-you note for providing President Biden with the rationale supporting his pardon. Trump has earned it.
John A. Rudy Cooperstown
Residents: What Viewing Platform?
This is a follow up to my letter of last month, which was published in “The Freeman’s Journal,” regarding
Continued on page 11
HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
135 YEARs AGo
The Local News – The peculiar weather of the past year or so, with the great amount of moisture deposited, is said to be accounted for by Professor Tyndall upon the theory that the Gulf stream is steadily approaching our North Atlantic coast. He bases his argument on the discovery of gulf weed further and further in-shore during a period of ten years, and it is stated that the stream is already many miles nearer the coast than formerly. If this theory is borne out by facts we may yet live to experience the balmy climate of California in oneonta, and to grow in our gardens the peaches, apricots, and nectarines, if not the oranges and lemons of that favored region.
Edward Hathaway who drives the best looking hack ever regularly run in oneonta, lost one of his thoroughbreds by sudden death the other day. Now will be a good time for the people to show their appreciation of his enterprise and give him liberal patronage.
Mr. Luther, superintendent of the Poor, has been here for the purpose of procuring necessary papers for the transfer of Mrs. Hi A. Rogers from the county house to the insane asylum. Mrs. Rogers is the wife of a colored barber who once lived here. of late, her insanity has assumed a violent form.
December 1889
70 YEARs AGo
The average American driver is a good driver. The statistics prove it. But, even so, with a little more effort he can become a better driver. such is the belief of Alderman Morris E. Howey, chair of oneonta’s observance of “safe Driving Day” this Wednesday. Mr. Howey says safe driving can be acquired by concentrating on it. He cited the effect of driving safety education on the nation’s highway death toll, as reflected in figures compiled by the National Automotive safety Foundation. The death rate has been cut in half in the last 18 years. In 1935 there were 15.9 lives lost for each 100 million miles of travel. Last year the rate dropped to 7.1 lives and it will be around 6.1 this year. If the 1935 death rate had prevailed, last year there would have been 86,000 fatalities instead of 38,300.
December 1954
40 YEARs AGo
Area county judges will receive a 26 percent pay raise and the oneonta city court judge is due for a 55 percent pay hike in January under a salary package that has been signed by Governor Mario Cuomo. Judicial salaries will vary to a new high of $95,000 for the Chief Justice of the NYs Court of Appeals. Locally, the five county judges serving Chenango, Delaware, otsego and schoharie counties all have been collecting a $53,928 salary. Under the new plan, they are scheduled for a $14,072 raise – or 26 percent – to a new $68,000 salary. The part-time oneonta city court judge currently makes $16,853. With a $9,300 pay hike, the new salary will come to $26,250. A parttime acting city judge will receive $100 per diem, not to exceed $3,000 annually.
December 1984
20 YEARs AGo
The oneonta City Common Council set 2005 salaries for department heads: Assessor, Mario Arevalo, $45,042; Central Garage supervisor, Paul Patterson, $40,558; City Clerk, James R. Koury, $41,224; Housing Rehabilitation specialist, Bruce Amadon, $46,890; Community Development Director, Joseph Bernier, $57,510, plus $1,500 for engineering duties; Engineering Technician, Alec Pitel, $41,283; Engineering Technician, James Hawver, $34,949; Chamberlain, David Martindale, $58,552, plus $3,600 stipend for purchasing duties; Fire Chief, Robert Barnes, $61,176; Assistant Fire Chief, Wayne Mattice, $55,900; Personnel Director, John Insetta, $52,524, plus $5,000 for transportation director duties; Police Chief, John Donadio, $68,543. December 2004
news
sCoTUs Divided on Flavored Vape Decision
Last week, the U.s supreme Court heard arguments on a case that revisits whether flavored vape products pose a risk to children’s health. The case, “Food and Drug Administration v. Wages and White Lion Investments,” contends with whether the FDA had acted lawfully in rejecting applications from two manufacturers of new flavored liquids used in e-cigarettes. If the supreme Court rules in the manufacturers’ favor, it could lead to flavored vape products being allowed back on the market. Given the data have shown for years that flavors in vapes tempt children into trying them, and the high concentrations of nicotine in most vapes quickly addict them, that outcome could adversely impact children’s health.
The two manufacturers’ attorneys claimed the FDA had changed their application requirements and misled them in what evidence the manufacturers needed to show their products did not pose a public health risk, including for children. Representing the FDA, Deputy solicitor General Curtis Gannon argued the agency did pose a “known and substantial risk” to young people and had not found any evidence in the applications that the flavored e-liquids, with names such as “pink lemonade” and “crème brûlée,” would benefit adults who already smoke,” according to sCoTUsblog.com.
some context for the case is in order. FDA was authorized in 2009 through the Tobacco Control Act to regulate tobacco products to protect public health. However, between 2010 and 2016, the FDA was mired in court proceedings that prevented it from regulating e-cigarettes. During that six-year period, the tobacco industry introduced thousands of flavors for e-cigarettes—many
By MERL REAGLE
Initial Investment…
of which mimicked sweet, fruity, and minty candy and cereals consumed by kids—and increased the concentrations of nicotine in e-liquids, making e-cigarette use increasingly addictive. By 2016, e-cigarette use among youth had skyrocketed. The U.s surgeon General declared youth vaping an epidemic in December 2018.
The vaping epidemic and hundreds of fatalities from vaping led to Congress banning flavored e-cigarette cartridges in December 2019. The FDA also began regulating vaping products in January 2020 through its Premarket Tobacco Product Applications review process. It required manufacturers of new commercial tobacco products to receive the FDA’s authorization to market and sell their products by demonstrating that the marketing of their tobacco products would protect public health, especially preventing future generations from nicotine addiction. Because e-cigarettes were introduced as a smoking cessation device and continue to be marketed as such, the FDA also evaluates new e-cigarette products on whether they can assist adults in quitting tobacco products.
In the past five years, the FDA has rejected almost all of the millions of applications for fruit-, candy- and mint-flavored vape products, concluding that they posed too high a risk to children’s health and that vape manufacturers had not proved flavors added to vapes help adults quit tobacco use. Indeed, the agency has not approved any e-cigarettes as a cessation device. The 34 vape products the FDA has approved to date are either unflavored or menthol-flavored.
The FDA’s conclusions about flavored vape products’ impact on children’s health are grounded in data and numerous scientific studies. When
Continued on page 11
Sales of Limited Edition Ommegang Ale Will Benefit Local Shelter
By DARLA M. YOUNGS COOPERSTOWN
From now until supplies run out, both beer and animal aficionados can support the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals when they purchase “MoJo’s Best,” an experimental beer produced by Brewery Ommegang.
MoJo’s Best comes as a result of the SQSPCA’s “Fur-tual Reality Dog Show,” sponsored by Clutter and Preferred Mutual. Online voting from August 19 to September 25 allowed the public to choose their favorite from among 10 mostly canine entries, Jeremy the ram being the lone exception. Votes cost $1.00 each and, as per an agreement with Brewery Ommegang, the contestant receiving the most votes would have a limited-run beer named after them, with 10 percent of beer sales being donated to the SQSPCA.
MoJo, owned by Jane Forbes Clark, was the clear winner with 6,239 votes. Second place went to Jeremy the ram (owned by Stacie Haynes), with 4,088 votes, and Pearl (Ben Smith) came in third with 1,737 votes. Other contestants included Lexi (Elaine Bresee), Rome (Francesca Zambello), Bert (Linda Thayer), Louie (Patrick Franck), Lizzie (Barbara Healey), Jake (Tom Huntsman) and Beatrix (Tjibbe Lambers).
“Overall, the Fur-tual Reality Dog Show brought in 20,715 votes from 218 voters,” said SQSPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes. “This was our first fundraiser of this kind, so we didn’t know what to expect. The $20,715.00 we raised was more than we could have hoped for and a great boon to our programs.
“Thank you so much to all who helped
Budget
Continued from page 1
pointing to see,” she said. “We have been working on budget cuts all summer, all fall and winter. The budget was a result of compromises. I am really disappointed.”
Mathisen replied, “I voted no because I am not willing to exceed the tax cap.”
Later he said, “We are paying the consequences of decisions made.”
Mathisen referenced the costs of large construction projects, debt payments that will come due on $7.5 million in bonds, and the salary increases that the city negotiated with the labor unions.
Harrington explained why he voted no initially.
He said, “Ever since somebody put ‘call your council member’ in the newspaper, my phone has been ringing off the hook.” Harrington said his constituents are opposed to raising taxes.
What people may not realize though, according to city officials, is that property taxes in Oneonta have been going up every single year by some 2 percent, but have not exceeded the tax cap.
Virginia Lee, director of finance, outlined the negative consequences if the Common Council did not approve the budget.
The proposed 2025 budget has a $1.6 million deficit that is easily covered by the $8 million in accumulated reserves, Lee said. If the tentative 2025 budget was not adopted, the charter mandates that the city revert back to the 2024 budget plus all new obligations covered. This
make this fundraiser a success—our contestants, our donors, our sponsors, Brewery Ommegang and especially SQSPCA board member Cory Moffat, for introducing the concept,” Haynes said.
The owners of each of the 10 dog show contestants submitted their pet’s backstory. MoJo’s began across the pond, in England.
“I’m British and I would like to tell you how I came to Cooperstown! I was very young when my first mum and I were at a horse competition at Hickstead, and we had a bit of strife in our relationship (she was angry at me for peeing in our cottage and had kicked me down the stairs),” MoJo’s tale began.
“We were in the stables with the British Team when I looked up and here came my life-saver. I just knew right away that I wanted her to be my lifetime mum!!” MoJo continued. “So I spent the next four days being as cute as I could possibly be and working on my very best come-hither look. It all began to finally
would have resulted in an even larger deficit of $2.8 million, according to Lee.
This was discussed in the November 19 Common Council meeting as well.
Non passage of the budget could have also affected the city’s favorable bond rating of “A --,” Lee explained. The potential for interest rates to rise on future debt payments was mentioned as another possible negative consequence.
Mathisen said he has spoken to more than a dozen constituents who tell him, “I do not have a lot of money. I am retired and on a fixed income,” or, “I have a low-paying job and don’t want my property taxes to go up.”
Lipari Shue argued, “The main issue I have with the budget is that the tax increase is not going to solve the problem…We have to address our expenditures, reign them in.
“I look forward to the day that we can balance the budget,” Lipari Shue said.
Mayor Mark Drnek proposed forming a budget committee to study what other cuts could be made. He promised to appoint three or four Common Council members to this committee.
When questioned by Carson as to whom he would appoint, Drnek said Carson and Lipari Shue would be two of the people he would tap for this newly-formed committee.
Carson pressed the mayor for an exact date for naming the other members of the committee, and Drnek agreed to make a decision by December 17, the final Common Council meeting of 2024.
Mayor Drnek opened the meeting with an endorsement of his nominee for the Seventh Ward, Mike Forster Rothbart.
work! My then-mum asked her if she’d like to adopt me, and the answer was YES! I was VERY excited, so I jumped in the car and sat on her lap and off we went, and the rest is history, as they say! I am so happy now, I feel so safe, and I absolutely love Cooperstown!”
According to Brewery Ommegang, MoJo’s Best—a New York-style pale ale—is spiced with grains of paradise and orange peel and contains both Citra and New York Centennial hops. English ale yeast was used to ferment the brew, and CaraRed malt provides a warm amber glow and a touch of added sweetness. The beer’s aroma is described as “zesty citrus with light malty tones.” The flavor profile is semidry with a medium-bodied mouthfeel; easy drinking, with the taste of orange blossom citrus. Pairing suggestions are light fare, such as grilled chicken, citrus salads, tangy cheeses or citrus tarts. “The perfect companion for your companion, MoJo’s Best,” according to Ommegang officials.
“What a great partnership with the SQSPCA. We were delighted to be part of the Fur-tual Reality Dog Show and to help raise money for animals in need,” wrote Joe Green, Ommegang’s quality control and innovation manager, in an e-mail. “When asked to provide a beer for this event, we thought it would be the perfect [time] to share a new pale ale that we were working on. At only 5.5% ABV, this pale ale is easy to get along with, just like man’s best friend! It has a warm amber glow from select malt, a dash of sweetness from grains of paradise and candied orange peel, and a bright citrus aroma from the fresh New York grown Centennial Hops. A perfect paring for any dog lover.”
“It’s delicious,” added Gary Buell,
When the public was given an opportunity to speak, Kyle Marks, 35 Elm Street, said, “I am concerned.”
He spoke of the democratic process by which a member of the Seventh Ward received signatures from their constituents. Marks expressed his preference for Carolyn Marks without mentioning her by name, saying he was concerned that the mayor was ignoring the wishes expressed by the public. Kyle Marks is the son of Carolyn Marks.
Common Council members voted unanimously to accept the mayor’s nomination for Mike Forster Rothbart following questions from Carson and Harrington. Forster Rothbart will serve the Seventh Ward for a one-year appointment, effective January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.
In an e-mail dated December 6, Forster Rothbart said, “Oneonta has been a great place for my family, a great place for my kids to grow up. Public service has been a big part of my life, so I feel grateful to be voted in and able to serve the city in this way.
“Talking with my neighbors, a lot of people in my ward feel unrepresented and disconnected from the city government. I understand—as a resident, it took me a decade to learn how to get things done here,” Forster Rothbart continued. “It doesn’t have to be that way. So this is my first priority as I take office—to be a conduit of information in both directions, for my neighborhood and for city officials. I think many people I know would get more involved and volunteer for the city if the city did a better job communicating needs and opportunities.”
general manager of Ommegang’s Tap House. “I can’t wait for you to try it!” MoJo’s Best is being sold at The Hawkeye Bar and Grill and at Brewery Ommegang until supplies run out. Both locations will be giving back 10 percent of their MoJo’s Best sales to the animal shelter.
The announcement about the limited run of MoJo’s Best comes at a time when the SQSPCA is ramping up its year-end fundraising.
Through Tuesday, December 31, shelter supporters Beth and Gary Glynn will donate an additional $5,000.00 to the SQSPCA for every $20,000.00 raised, up to $100,000.00. Contributions to the “Promise for Parkie” campaign can be made safely and securely online at www.sqspca. org/donate/, by mail, or in person.
“Our end-of-year fundraising has been instrumental in ensuring we can continue to provide quality, low-cost services to animals—and their humans—in need. We hope our supporters will give generously this holiday season, so that we can meet this extremely generous matching challenge,” Haynes said.
Adding to the excitement, along with the “Promise for Parkie” campaign the SQSPCA also launched its “Kennel-free Christmas” initiative on December 3. Anyone who adopts through December 31 will receive 25 percent off the adoption fee; other fees may apply.
The SQSPCA is located at 50825088 State Highway 28, just north of the Village of Cooperstown. The shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments to meet animals are advised to avoid wait times by calling (607) 547-8111, but walkins are always welcome.
ENDICOTT
The American Red Cross strongly urges the public to create a new holiday tradition of donating blood or platelets. Type O negative donors and platelet donors are in especially high demand, and it makes a lifesaving gift for someone in need. Anyone who donates between December 16 and January 3 will receive a Red Cross long-sleeved shirt, while supplies last. To donate, walk in to a drive or schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1 (800) 733-2767. Upcoming local blood drives include: Franklin Fire Department, 351 Main Street, from 12:30-5:30 p.m. on December 13; St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street in Cooperstown, 12:30-5:30 p.m. on December 18; Delhi Alliance Church, 16178 State Route 28, 1-5:30 p.m. on December 19; Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52 in Cooperstown, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 20; Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street in Oneonta, from 1-6 p.m. on December 20; Southside Mall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 21; Sidney Elks Lodge, 104 River Street, from 1-6 p.m. on December 23; Jay Gould Memorial Church Carriage House, 53837 State Highway 30 in Roxbury, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on December 24; Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, from 12-4 p.m. on December 26; Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, from 12-5 p.m. on December 27; New Lisbon Town Hall, 908 County Road 16, from 1-6 p.m. on December 30; Southside Mall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 31; Robinson Terrace Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, 28652 State Route 23 in Stamford, from 12:30-5 p.m. on January 3; Otego Fire Department, 5 River Street, 1-6 p.m. on January 3; American Legion Post 259, 279 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, from 2-6 p.m. on January 3.
Graphic provided
The Susquehanna SPCA’s “Fur-tual Reality Dog Show” featured 10 adorable contestants vying for “top dog”
Graphic provided
Brewery Ommegang’s special “MoJo’s Best” pale ale is available at The Hawkeye Bar and Grill and the brewery while supplies last.
WWII Veteran Bonfiglio Celebrates 99th Birthday with Family
By MONICA CALZOLARI
WORCESTER
Rosemary Summers and her daughter, Sarah Summers, are both SUNY Oneonta graduates. Sarah wanted to honor her grandfather, Vincent James Bonfiglio, who recently turned 99 years young. She and her sister, Laura Summers, flew in from Austin, Texas and joined relatives and loved ones from Kentucky and New Jersey for the celebration.
Bonfiglio is a World War II Navy veteran who lives in an assisted living facility near his son, Chris Bonfiglio, in
Westchester, New York. Vincent had four children, two boys and two girls. The youngest son predeceased his father. His wife, Frances, also passed away after 35 years of marriage, at age 52.
Vincent Bonfiglio is a proud Italian of Sicilian descent. He was the youngest of his siblings and the only one born in the United States.
His daughter, Rosemary, said, “Dad was a classic Italian barber in New York City who did well as a bootlegger, too.”
“Dad is remarkably healthy except for his short-term memory,” Rosemary added.
Although her father does not talk about his
war experience much, Rosemary gave him a blank book and wrote in prompts to encourage him to write down his memories.
Vincent wrote his autobiography in 2008, titled “My Journey.” His family helped him self-publish in 2009 and printed 15 copies. One chapter is about his naval service during World War II.
He wrote, “One of the most memorable experiences was escorting Battleship Missouri into Tokyo harbor for the signing of the armistice that signaled the end of WW II.”
Vincent served in the Navy for four years. He enlisted in 1942, when he was 17. He worked in the engineering department aboard U.S.S. Smalley.
The war ended during his third year of service.
There are approximately 60,000 World War II veterans alive in the U.S. today. None of Vincent’s war friends are still alive.
Vincent met his first wife on a blind double date while stationed in a shipyard in Philadelphia. His daughter said her dad likes to tell the story of how he told his friend, “I want blondie.”
He and Frances eloped shortly after he returned from his first assignment at sea. They kept their marriage a secret from their parents because they were young. He was only 18.
“Dad is very romantic,” Rosemary said. “It took him a long time to get over the death of his first wife.”
Continued on page 9
Photo provided
Joining Vincent Bonfiglio for his birthday celebration were, back row: Brian Glover, granddaughter Laura Summers, Bob Baker, Nick Peterson, William Summers, and daughter-in-law Adriane Bonfiglio; middle row: daughters Rosemary Summers and Dee Robinson next to their father, Vincent James Bonfiglio, age 99, and his son, Chris Bonfiglio; kneeling, granddaughter Sarah Summers and great-granddaughter Anais Robbins.
LegaL nOtice
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 permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalDec.12
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
LegaL nOtice
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.
6LegalDec.12
LegaL nOtice
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 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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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.
LEGALS
6LegalDec.19
LegaL nOtice
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.
6LegalDec.19
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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
LegaL nOtice
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.
6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
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.
6LegalJan.02
LegaL nOtice
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.
6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
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 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
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 a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name: ABM FIRE PROTECTION LLC
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
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. 6LegalJan.2
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of Howling Tree LLC.
Articles of organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/26/2024.
Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to 226 Holl Rd, New Berlin NY 13411. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalJan.9
LegaL nOtice
Notice to bidderS
Pursuant to the NY Self Storage Lien Act, the owner of a self storage facility has a lien upon all personal property located at the self-service storage facility for rent or other charges incurred for the storage of the personal property. Due to the failure to pay the rent, the owner is enforcing its lien and intends to sell or otherwise dispose of the personal property located in the rented spaces listed in this notice.
THIS NOTICE IS BEING PROVIDED PURSUANT TO NY STATE LAW
BEFORE the sale, the tenants listed may pay the amount necessary to satisfy the lien and the reasonable expenses incurred to redeem the personal property.
ROBIN RACEUnit C2
ADVERTISEMENT OF SALE: Notice is hereby given that on December 17, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. the personal property located in the following storage units will be sold by competitive bidding at LS Storage LLC - 13 Lewis Street, Oneonta, NY, 13820. The unit contains household, recreational and/or misc. goods unless otherwise noted.
Start: December 12, 2024 09:00 AM EST End: December 17, 2024 10:00 AM EST
Location: 13 Lewis Street, Oneonta NY 13468
Description: Unit C2 - (Furniture, Farm equipment, household items)
Bidding: All bidding will take place online at bid13.com 2LegalDec.12
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of
Red Barn Farm Brewery & Kountry Kitchen LLC.
Filed with SSNY on 12/02/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: Josh Long, 3883 State Highway 7, Otego, NY, 13825. Purpose: Any Lawful 6LegalJan.16
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of Hinman Hollow Restoration LLC
Article of organizations filed with the SSNY on 12/3/2024. 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 The Company, 242 Lippitt Road, Milford, NY 13807. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.16
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of FIELD OF DREAMS RV CAMPING RESORT & EVENT CENTER LLC
Articles of org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/22/24. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 426 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business loc: 181 Schidzick Rd., Hartwick, NY 13348. 6LegalJan.16
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of LIFESTYLES UNLIMITED OUTDOOR RESORTS LLC
Articles of org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/21/24. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 426 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820.
Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business loc: 181 Schidzick Rd., Hartwick, NY 13348. 6LegalJan.16
Supplemental Plan and be covered 100% by Bassett for Employee and Spouse coverage when they retired…
“The NOVA charge you’re mandating of $55/month will be a hardship for many of our older retirees who have been covered for decades under Bassett’s Retiree Medical Plan. I have always told myself that Bassett Management would never tinker with this valuable retiree benefit seen as a reward for our long years of service. I was wrong, and am terribly disappointed…Bassett’s past successes and growth of the network can be partly attributed to the hard work of the men and women who are currently on our Retiree List,” McGrath continued.
“Does our Retiree Discount still apply? Are you even aware that this benefit exists? Currently visit fees ($2), Medicare and NOVA deductibles and balances after insurance are written off as a Retiree Discount for eligible retirees…The purpose of this letter is to let you know that I am grateful for the many years spent at Bassett, enjoyed the employee benefits as an active employee, and was proud to have earned status as a retiree with excellent benefits. However, I and many others feel a deep sense of betrayal with this new charge,” McGrath wrote.
Retirees at Thursday’s meeting praised McGrath for her letter, and for her assistance as they themselves were preparing to retire.
“We all planned our employment around our retirement with Jan’s guidance,” one woman said, comparing the November 11 letter from Laughlin to “dropping a bomb.”
A Bassett employee unable to attend Thursday’s meeting shared the following in an e-mail:
“When I started at Bassett Hospital in the early eighties, it was definitely the place to work. They cared about each employee and for my position alone, there were 50 applicants. Benefits were good and the promise of a good retirement with full health insurance coverage after retirement was an incentive to stay for many years. Now that those years are almost to an end that has all suddenly changed without warning. The continued promise (with signed contracts) of no cost supplemental insurance has now suddenly come to an end. Those of us who are still working but looking to retirement now must keep working in order to afford the premiums, copays and deductibles and increased cost of living on a fixed income. My spouse has numerous health issues and requires frequent appointments which will demand copays and deductibles that we cannot afford. Sadly, I will have to delay my retirement for now.”
However, thanks to a change of heart on the
part of Bassett Healthcare Network leadership, retirees can relax, at least for now.
The Bassett network, which recorded a deficit of $80 million in 2022 and a similar loss in 2023, has been working with healthcare consulting group Huron since April, part of an overall improvement plan to ensure that Bassett is healthy for the future. Recently 101 filled positions were eliminated across the eight-county network.
“Through workforce efforts overall— including last week’s reductions, reducing agency staff spending, and more—Bassett Healthcare Network will close approximately one third of its $80 million gap between expenses and net patient revenue,” Gabrielle Argo, Bassett director of communications and public relations, explained on Tuesday, October 22.
Cost of labor is just one of nine areas being addressed by Bassett. Thompson said in an October interview that there are eight other working groups concurrently reviewing supply chain, pharmacy, medical group access, coding, facilities, patient throughput, strategic pricing and charge capture, and human resources.
Hospitals and healthcare institutions across the country, particularly those in rural areas, are struggling with similar financial issues. The proposed changes to Bassett’s Medicare Supplemental Plan are part of a complicated plan to reduce expenses, but retirees have been making their voices heard, saying Bassett has gone too far, too quickly. And, on second thought, Bassett’s leadership agrees.
“Our retirees are a cherished part of our Bassett population. Their long-term dedication to our institution is deeply appreciated, and we will continue to honor their longevity by providing a Bassett retiree health plan to help ensure they have the coverage they need,” Thompson said in a statement released on Monday, December 9.
“To rapidly address Bassett’s financial challenges, many decisions have been made quickly to close our organization’s gap between revenue and expenses. This includes many difficult decisions, including making changes to Bassett’s retiree health
insurance premium payment.
“We realized from our retirees that the notification of these plan changes in November did not allow adequate time for plan participants to fully understand the changes and research their options,” Thompson continued. “As such, we made the decision not to move forward with changes to Bassett’s retiree health plan benefits and financial contributions in 2025.
“I am committed to protecting Bassett’s mission so people in our communities have access to the care they need. An important part of this work means finding a balance between preserving Bassett’s unique culture with new approaches to ensure our future. Going forward, our retirees will have critical input in the evolution of their health plan as we work together to position Bassett for success,” Thompson said.
Because of McGrath and other Bassett retirees who pushed back against this change—and thanks to Thompson and other hospital officials who recognized the importance of their input and that a second, harder look was warranted— folks can rest easy this holiday season knowing that a better solution is in the offing.
Birthday
Continued from page 7
He remarried a woman named Tony, who also predeceased him, and dated a third partner who also died.
In the epilogue of his autobiography, Vincent shared this sage advice:
“There will come a time when all that you hold dear will come to an end. Parents and grandparents
pass away. Friends and cousins and aunts and uncles all leave you. So, I say to you that while you have them, share yourself with them, show them love and understanding and enjoy them.”
His great-granddaughter, Anais Robbins, lives in Austin, Texas.
“I only see him once or twice a year. He seemed very happy at his birthday,” she said.
Rosemary added, “He was surprisingly quiet [at his party], but seemed very content, as if he was taking it all in.”
Rosemary stayed in Oneonta for 13 years after she graduated from SUNY and knew she would always come back.
She moved around a lot. She attended high school in New York City and her career took her back there until she retired to Fly Creek in 2013. She lives in Worcester now.
“Oneonta feels the most like home of all the places I have lived. I knew when I left, I would always come back,” Rosemary said.
Sarah Summers is a PhD candidate in religious studies at The University of Texas, Austin. She plans to find a job as a professor.
Asked if she’ll return to the area, she said, “My mom is not the assisted living type. I plan to take care of her [when the time is right].”
Laura Summers also lives in Austin.
She said, “I work at a therapeutic horseback riding center that works with veterans and others with disabilities.”
“Grandpa loves that Laura works with horses and owns her own business. He is very proud of her,” Sarah said.
Yager Museum Marks Season with Community Days
ONEONTA
The Yager Museum of Art & Culture, located on the Hartwick College campus, invites the public to celebrate the end of the fall semester and the holiday season with Community Days. The museum will be open daily from Monday, December 9 through Saturday, December 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
“With Hartwick’s finals week concluding on Thursday [December 12], the museum would normally close until January,” Museum Coordinator Doug Kendall explained. “We’re designating Friday, December 13, and Saturday, December 14, as ‘Community Days.’ We know it can be challenging visiting the museum while the college is in session, so we especially invite visitors from the Oneonta area and Otsego and Delaware counties to visit. We will offer some special activities and there will be plenty of parking adjacent to the museum.”
According to a media release, Museum Curator Quentin Lewis will offer a special tour of the exhibition, “With That Shadow Over Them: Constructing Catskill Reservoirs, Remembering Home,” on Friday, December 13 at 3 p.m. Museum Coordinator Kendall will give a curator’s tour of “No Child’s Play”: Impressionist Paintings by Anna Richards Brewster on Saturday, December 14, at 3 p.m. A scavenger hunt will provide children of all ages an opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibits.
Cider and cookies will be available on both days, officials said.
Admission to the museum is free, as always. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items that will be donated to local food pantries.
Other exhibitions on view include:
• “Masterpieces of European and American Art: Hartwick College’s Art Treasure Room,” a permanent exhibition of works ranging from the Italian Renaissance to 20th-century pieces by Rockwell Kent and Childe Hassam.
• “A Deep Dive in a Large Ocean: Tradition, Tourism, and Transformation in Micronesian Cultures,” a student-curated exhibition based on the museum’s Royal Gifford Collection. “A Deep Dive” closes after December 14.
The Yager Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. when Hartwick College is in session. The museum is closed on Sundays, Mondays and college holidays. To reach the museum, take West Street to Clinton Street and turn right onto Cayuga Drive. Follow Cayuga Drive to Yager Hall. Parking is available adjacent to the museum entrance.
For more information on The Yager and these exhibitions, visit the museum’s website, Facebook page, or Instagram page, call (607) 431-4480, or e-mail Kendall at kendalld@hartwick.edu.
Holiday Market To Be a Catalyst for Shopping in Cooperstown
COOPERSTOWN
The Cooperstown Farmers’ Market
will hold a special Holiday Market with 24 local farmers, artisans, crafters, and food producers on Tuesday, December 17 from 37 p.m. The event will feature free mulled cider, a make-and-take craft for kids, a gift-wrapping station, and live music with Fast Friends. The farmers’ market, which
operates year-round on Saturdays, is located in Pioneer Alley at 101 Main Street in Cooperstown.
In addition, a number of Cooperstown businesses will be open until 7 p.m. on December 17, with luminaries to light the way for shoppers.
“We are glad to offer a special evening farmers’ market as the holidays approach and give the community another opportunity to
support local farmers and makers,” said Alex Webster, market manager at Otsego 2000, which sponsors the CFM.
Vendors to be featured at the holiday market are: Agliata Farms, Arabeth Farm, Black Willow Pond Farm, Gaia’s Breath Farm, Middlefield Orchards, Mill Hollow Maple, Mountain View Dairy, Nectar Hill Farm, Painted Goat Farm, Rock Hill Farm, Straight from the Hive, ARK Floral, Leatherstocking Exotics, Chatty Wren Coffee Roasters, Pail Shop Vineyards, Uncommon Kin Cidery, Crystals Customs, Mimikis, Tech Tamer Woodworks, Terracotta Republic, Wildwood Woodturning, Elk Creek Farm, Traveling Herb Farmer, and Laura’s Chocolates.
According to orga-
Sports
Continued from page 2
Classroom Aide
FT Head Start Positions - with school breaks and summers off:
Preschool Assistant Teacher
Preschool Classroom Aide
nizers, the holiday market will feature seasonal produce, meats, poultry, baked goods, cheese, jams and jellies, honey, coffee, maple syrup, chocolate, hard cider, wine, prepared foods, and more. Specialty items include art, plants, CBD products, herbal remedies, skincare, pottery, blown glass, woodworks, yarn, toys, and home goods. Market gift certificates also will be on sale.
Kids can make and take a seasonal craft with Miss Jen, and the Cooperstown Lions Club will wrap gifts for a donation to support the Lions Club SNAP Match program at the market. Through this match, and the Double Up Food Bucks program, a $20.00 EBT spend results in $60.00 worth of local
Wolfe made two aces, 15 assists, and two digs, while junior Mia Pelcer added six kills and five digs.
Team Youth (classes of 2014 and later) won the annual Cooperstown soccer Legends Game 4-3 during a snowstorm on Thursday, November 28. Team Experience held an advantage in the poor playing conditions for
food. So far in 2024, food access initiatives at the CFM have resulted in more than $18,000.00 in fresh local food for families, officials reported.
Along with the farmers’ market, customers are encouraged to shop at Cooperstown retailers, many of which are staying open late that evening.
The Cooperstown Art Association’s Holiday Show and Sale will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with Prosecco (21+) and chocolate treats. Anyone who attends the sale will be entered to win a CAA family membership for the 2025 season.
Willis Monie Books is offering 20 percent off sales. Other stores with extended hours until 7 p.m. on December 17 include: J. Gorman Fine Jewelry, Rudy’s Liquors, Tin Bin Alley, The Local Bird,
much of the match, with a 2-0 lead at the half. Youth scored four unanswered goals in the last 12 minutes by Riley Diamond, Ted Mebust, Roland Gardner-Oleson and Colby Diamond. It was Team Youth’s fourth win in the past five years, following their first-ever victory in 2019. Dan Cunningham, class of 1988, was named MVP and Most Legendary.
Cooperstown Beverage Exchange, Charlie & Cooper, L.J’s Sassy Boutique, Zinn Brilliant/ Rigby Handcraft, Mohican Flowers, Bridgette and Main, Stagecoach Coffee, and Kate’s Upstate. In addition, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in their cottage in Pioneer Park to receive visitors from 3-5 p.m.
“Along with the wonderful Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, we want to showcase the great array of shopping that can be done right here in the village,” said Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 2000.
“We are lucky to have a vibrant downtown with established and new shops to explore.”
Pope noted that people may want to plan for a dinner out after shopping.
The job scene
Vape
Continued from page
youth under age 18—and even up to age 24—use addictive substances such as nicotine, they are much more likely to be addicted to them for a long time compared to adults over 24 years old. Vaping nicotine has proved harmful to adolescents’ brain development. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control warns nicotine use can “harm the parts of the [adolescent] brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.” Youth who vape nicotine may be at increased risk for future addiction to other drugs and smoking cigarettes.
Most youth think vaping is harmless because they assume they are inhaling water vapor. In reality, they are inhaling aerosols. The CDC reports vape aerosols can include cancer-causing chemicals, heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead, tiny particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, and flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease.
E-cigarettes can pose a serious risk to small
Reid Thomas Nagelschmidt
1977-2024
COOPERSTOWN—
Reid T. Nagelschmidt, a life-long resident of Cooperstown who was well-known as a local barber, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. A beloved son, father, brother, uncle and nephew, he was 47.
Born April 3, 1977 at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Reid Thomas Nagelschmidt was the son of Stephen F. “Sharky” Nagelschmidt and Cynthia Anne (Williams) Nagelschmidt.
Raised in the family home on Brooklyn Avenue, Reid attended Cooperstown Central School, where he excelled in basketball and baseball and graduated with the Class of 1995. During his high-school years, Reid played three years on the varsity basketball team, and was named an All Star and served as team captain. At the end of his high school basketball career, he was one of only seven male basketball players in CCS history to score more than 1,000 points. He was also a standout baseball player for the Redskins,
children. If they ingest even a miniscule amount of liquid nicotine from vapes, they can become sick and even die. The CDC reported in March 2024, “More than 80% of calls to U.S. poison control centers for ecigarettes are for children less than 5 years old.”
The Supreme Court justices appeared divided on the case last week. In June 2025, they could rule to uphold the FDA’s rejection of the flavored vapes, order the FDA to re-evaluate the manufacturers’ applications with clearer rules, or even upend FDAs’ regulations and regulatory process. If SCOTUS chooses the last option, we could likely see flavored vapes once again flood the market, youth vaping rates soar again, and many more people struggling with nicotine addiction and other ailments.
Jennifer Hill is the community engagement coordinator for Tobacco Free Communities: Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie.
Letters
Continued from page
the proposed viewing platform at the end of Pioneer Street.
The biggest issue that I pointed out in my letter was the lack of transparency in the process undertaken by the village. In saying this I cast no aspersions, I simply say that the way the village currently communicates regarding projects as important as this one is not reaching people, and that matters. Before I sent my letter I had one or two residents tell me I was barking up the wrong tree and everyone knew about this project and the timeline. Yet after the letter was published it seemed that the average reaction from people in the village was “What viewing platform? I had no idea about it,” which seems to validate my original point.
Many people wrote letters and conversed with village trustees to share their concern. Many people showed up to the March 25 village meeting. Once the conversation was raised openly, it became quite clear that most people in the village were as surprised as I was that this public works project
was happening and most were not in favor of it for a variety of reasons.
I am glad that the village trustees tabled the project for the moment because overwhelming reactions like this tell us a few things. First and foremost, it tells that we haven’t had the robust public discussion that projects like this should have during the planning stages. As I pointed out in my first letter, public conversation makes good projects better and reveals weaknesses in others.
So, what are we now hearing? We are hearing concerns of residents which include very real environmental issues, very real traffic control and safety issues on Pioneer Street, and serious questions about ongoing funding for the completion and maintenance of this proposed project. There are questions about the design, the visual impact of the design on all of us and, the most basic question, why do we need this project?
We are now able to see the design prospectus, and to many of us it doesn’t fit the character of Cooperstown, creates light pollution around the platform, and doesn’t appear safe for our normally cold winters
OBITUARIES
(yes, we hope for regular ice on the lake again and are not yet raising coconuts in Cooperstown).
We can now clear up misinformation surrounding the project, such as the idea that no one lived at 2 Pioneer Street during the planning process, they did, and that notifying them shouldn’t matter. Everyone pays their property taxes in town and should have a say about large public works projects, especially ones that abut their property.
Some may think, it’s just a platform off the end of the street, what’s the big deal?
If built, we do know a few things. Building the platform out into the lake will be disruptive to the lake. The platform will generate more traffic, people, and trash on the lake’s edge at the end of Pioneer Street. The platform will be visible from practically everywhere on the south end of the lake and from various parts of the village. Being out on the water, it will generate sound that carries across water, and it will stand, in whatever form it would take, for a very long time. We better be sure we as a village like what we build.
Wendy W. Smith Cooperstown
Sluggers
Continued from page 1
field, Parker won the 1979 All-Star Game MVP Award following a legendary exhibition of his throwing arm. The seven players and one manager who comprised the Classic Baseball Era Committee ballot—Allen, Ken Boyer, John Donaldson, Steve Garvey, Vic Harris, Tommy John, Parker and Luis Tiant—were chosen from eligible player, manager, executive, and umpire candidates whose careers in baseball came primarily prior to 1980. Hall of Fame Weekend 2025 will be held July 2528 in Cooperstown, with the Induction Ceremony slated for Sunday, July 27.
WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOU
Promotions, births, meetings, new hires, events, milestones, grand openings, sports results, anniversaries and more. Photos welcome, too! info@allotsego.com
and throughout his highschool years was named an All Star, MVP, and was captain of the team. Reid held school records for most RBIs and strikeouts pitching in a career, with 71 and 202, respectively. In September 2011, he was inducted into the Cooperstown Central School Athletic Hall of Fame.
After graduating from high school, Reid attended St. Bonaventure University, where he received a scholarship to play Division I baseball. His Bonnie teammates were a great group of guys that he remembered fondly. He later attended SUNY Oneonta, and then attended BOCES, where he earned a certificate as a master barber. This became his true calling, and Reid became well-known in the community for his skills as a barber. His first place was his own barber shop in Fly Creek and he was currently applying his trade at Hair Junction on Railroad Avenue with his friend and business partner, Jeanette. As a lifelong resident of Cooperstown, and a local barber, Reid crossed paths with so many. His childhood friendships were strong and lasting, and many of those friends became like family. Reid had friends that were half his age and twice his age, old friends, new friends, just passing through town friends. Life was meant for good friends and great adventures, and Reid had many.
Reid devoted his life to being a loving father to his children that filled his heart with so much joy. His Alli May, Moo Moo and Bo were his everything. He passed on his love of sports to his children and
spent countless hours shooting hoops, playing catch, hitting fly balls, teaching Bode how to throw a bowling ball, and watching Alli, Madi, and Helena practice their cartwheels, often being asked to rate them on a scale of 1 to 10. Reid was a great girl dad.
Reid’s bond with Bode was unbreakable; they would take their breaks from all things girly and escape to a river, lake, or pond to enjoy some father son time doing what they loved together, fishing for the big one.
We are grateful for the memory that Bode will cherish forever; when his wish to go to a Yankee game with his dad came true, and they attended game one of the ALDS in October. Yankee fans forever!
Reid loved coaching Bode’s baseball team and Alli’s softball team. It brought him joy watching the kids have fun playing the sport he loved so much. He was thankful for those opportunities.
Reid will be remembered as a funny guy, a gentle giant of a person, for his love of the game,
as an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, and for being a wonderful father to his three children.
Reid is survived by his daughter, Allison May Nagelschmidt and twins Madison Helen and Bode Robert Nagelschmidt, and their mother, Catherine Allison Nagelschmidt; his parents, Stephen “Sharky” and Cynthia Nagelschmidt of Cooperstown; his sister, Brooke Nagelschmidt of Cooperstown and her daughter, Reid’s beloved niece, Helena Rosalea Betancourt; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at St. Mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with Fr. Michael Cambi, pastor, officiating. Immediately following the mass, there
will be a reception in the Parish Hall.
Burial will be private at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in the form of memorial gifts may be made to Cooperstown Youth Baseball and Softball, PO Box 282, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Reid’s family would also appreciate contributions to his children’s 529 college savings plan established by Sharky and Cynthia Nagelschmidt. Please make checks payable to Stephen F. Nagelschmidt, 142 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.
Brian A.
Alexander 1951-2024
COOPERSTOWN—
Brian A. Alexander, 73, visiting professor of museum administration at the Cooperstown Graduate Program,
passed away unexpectedly on November 27 at Albany Medical Center. Born March 25, 1951 in Peoria, Illinois, Brian was the son of Arnold George Alexander and Norma Jean (nee Hoffman) Alexander. A celebration of Brian’s life will be held at the Cooperstown Graduate Program at 5838 State Route 80, Cooperstown. The full obituary can be found at http://www. cooperstownfuneralhome. com/2024/12/brian-alexander.html.
Richard M. McCaffery 1952-2024
COOPERSTOWN—
Richard M. McCaffery, 72, passed away on December 2, 2024 at Chestnut Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Oneonta. He was born April 22, 1952 to John Arthur McCaffery and Marie Schiavone McCaffery. In keeping with Rich’s wishes, there will be no services or gathering. The full obituary can be found at http://www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com/.
Photo provided REID T. NAGELSCHMIDT
►Friday, dec. 13
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.
BLOOD DRIVE 12:305:30 p.m. Franklin Fire Department, 351 Main Street, Franklin. RedCrossBlood.org
POTTERY 1:304:30 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.
MUSEUM 3 p.m.
“With That Shadow Over Them: Constructing Catskill Reservoirs, Remembering Home.” Special tour with Museum Curator Quentin Lewis. Followed by a scavenger hunt for the children. Cider and cookies available. Yager Museum of Art & Culture, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. (607) 4314480.
LIBRARY 3-4 p.m.
“Oreo Tasting.” WorcesterSchenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester, (607) 397-7309.
HOLIDAYS 3-5
p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
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) 5471450.
HOLIDAYS 5-7 p.m.
“Artisan Guild Holiday Party.” Refreshments, meet the artists and browse the shop. Artisans Guild, 148 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 4321080.
SANTA’S COTTAGE 5-7 p.m. Muller Plaza, Oneonta.
HOLIDAYS 5-7 p.m.
“Gingerbread House Making at UUSO.” Free. All welcome. Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta, 12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 4323491.
HOLIDAY 6 p.m.; tree lighting at 5 p.m. “Unadilla NY Santa Parade & Tree Lighting.” Main Street Unadilla. Visit facebook.com/GoUnadillaNY
HOLIDAY 6-8 p.m.
“Holiday of Lights.” Walk through Santa’s village, featuring Santa’s hut, kissing bridge, hot cocoa bar, village bakery, candy shop and more. Continues 12/14, 12/20, 12/21, 12/22 and 12/23. Otsego County Fairgrounds, 48 Lake Street, Morris. (607) 2635289.
CONCERT 7 p.m.; free dance lessons for ticket holders at 6 p.m.
“ZapOte: Latin Dance Band.” Presented by Cooperstown Concerts. Tickets required. The Otesaga Resort Hotel, 60 Lake Street, Cooperstown.
►Saturday, dec. 14
BIRDING All Day.
“Christmas Bird Count 2024.” Join the DelawareOtsego Audubon Society anywhere in Otsego County. (607) 397-3815.
CRAFT FAIR 9 a.m.
“Holiday Craft Fair.” Hunt Union, SUNY Oneonta, 68 Bugbee Road, Oneonta. (607) 436-3730.
HOLIDAYS 9:30 a.m. “Rockin’ Around Cooperstown Ugly Sweater Run/Walk.” Fees apply; registration required. Proceeds ben-
efit Cooperstown Angel Network. The Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. (607) 547-2800, ext. 111.
SANTA’S COTTAGE
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Muller Plaza, Oneonta.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to noon. “4-H Fine Arts Painting Workshop.” Fees apply; registration required. 4-H Outreach Office, 31 Maple Street, Oneonta. (607) 4332521.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Franklin Rotary Holiday Market.” Franklin Fire House, 351 Main Street, Franklin. franklinrotary7170@gmail.com.
MAKERS MARKET
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Christmas Market.” Southside Mall, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 4324401.
PLANETARIUM Fees apply; registration required. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Room 018A Perna Science Building, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. Visit suny.oneonta.edu/ science-outreach-activities/planetarium
• 10:30 a.m. “Betelgeuse’s Galactic Vacation: An Alien’s Search for Planets!”
• 11:30 a.m. “The Sky Tonight.”
HOLIDAYS 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Origins Cafe Holiday Market.” Local artisan crafts, gifts from around the world, hot drinks, soups and handmade holiday centerpieces. Continues 12/15. Origins Cafe, 558 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 437-2862.
ART 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Art Reception: Sonja Eklund.” Free and open to the public. WorcesterSchenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester.
(607) 397-7309.
HOLIDAYS 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “The Bremer Family Holiday Show.” Artwork, jewelry, baskets, chairs, paper goods and more. Continues 12/15. Briar Creek Gallery, 498 County Highway 5, Otego.
EXHIBIT 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Multiples: Artist Showcase Day.” Meet one or more of the artists whose work is displayed. On view Saturdays through 1/25/25 or by appointment. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 941-9607.
EDUCATION 12:30 p.m. “Social Studies in the Park.” Law enforcement and community leaders chat with elementary through high-school children about the preamble to the Constitution, law and choices. Presented by A.T. SocioJudicial Consulting. Community Room, Southside Mall, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (518) 4308411.
WORKSHOP 1 p.m. “Fun with Half-Square Triangles.” Fees apply; registration required. Leatherstocking Quilts, 155 Main Street, Suite B, Oneonta. (607) 4413111.
HOLIDAYS 2 p.m.
Sidney Community Band performs songs, marches, show tunes and other holiday classics of yesteryear. Also featuring cookie decoration stations and hot cocoa. Free. Pathfinder Gymnasium, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377.
HOLIDAYS 2-4
p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
MUSEUM 3 p.m. “No Child’s Play: Impressionist Paintings by Anna
and the kitchen. This home also has a large family room, a separate den/office area and an amazing amount of closet/storage space. There is a deck on the back of the house accessed from a sliding door off the DR. If you are looking for the perfect home to move right into, come take a look at this one. $135,000. MLS#1578839
Richards Brewster.” Special tour with museum coordinator. Followed by a scavenger hunt for the children. Cider and cookies available. Yager Museum of Art & Culture, Hartwick College, 1 Hartwick Drive, Oneonta. (607) 431-4480.
HOLIDAYS 4 p.m.; doors open at 3:30 p.m. “Choral Christmas Concert.” Presented by Voices of Cooperstown. Suggested donation applies. Christ Church, Episcopal, 46 River Street, Cooperstown.
HOLIDAYS 5:30 p.m. “Hyde Hall’s Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tour.” Historical holiday customs, photo opportunities, make-your-own Hot Toddy Station (hot chocolate available for children) and more. Tickets required; fees apply. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.
HOLIDAYS 6 p.m.
“2024 Oneonta Festival of Lights.” Opening night featuring hot cocoa, popcorn, Cosmic Karma Fire performers and visitors from the North Pole. Presented by Hill City Celebrations. On view through 1/1/2025. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 435-1025.
HOLIDAYS 7:30 p.m. “Poinsettia Pops.”
Presented by the Catskill Symphony Orchestra. Inaugural holiday concert full of timeless favorites, from “The Nutcracker” to “Silent Night” and more. Tickets required. Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit catskillsymphonyorchestra.org
►Sunday, dec. 15
DEADLINE Last day to sign up for the “War and Peace” read-a-long. Reserve a book, read a short chapter a day, and join the monthly lunchtime discussion. Village Library of Cooperstown,
22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5478344.
HOLIDAYS 8-11 a.m.
“MVFD Breakfast with Santa.” Mount Vision Fire Department, 179 County Highway 11B, Mount Vision. (607) 433-0997.
CINEMAS 9 a.m.
“Free Christmas Movie: The Polar Express.” Bring non-perishable food or new and unopened toys to donate. Southside Mall Cinema, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 432-3750.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. “Fire Truck Santa.” Photos, visits and holiday cheer with Santa throughout Hartwick. Followed by Christmas with Santa at the Hartwick American Legion from noon to 2 p.m. Start from Hartwick Fire Department Co. # 1, 3088 County Highway 11, Hartwick. (607) 2937741.
HOLIDAYS 10 a.m. to noon. “Holiday Ornament Workshop.” Free admission, donations welcome. Oneonta World of Learning, 167 Youngs Road, Oneonta. (607) 431-8543.
HOLIDAYS 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “The Bremer Family Holiday Show.” Artwork, jewelry, baskets, chairs, paper goods and more. Continues 12/15. Briar Creek Gallery, 498 County Highway 5, Otego. HOLIDAYS Noon to 2 p.m. “Ornament Making at UUSO.” Free and open to the public. (607) 4323491.
FIBER 1-4 p.m. “The Gatehouse Fiber Guild.” New knitters welcome. Held each Sunday in the lounge. The Gatehouse, 129 Main Street, Morris. (607) 285-4111.
HOLIDAYS 2 & 4 p.m. “Community Christmas Cantata.” Refreshments to follow. Burlington Flats Baptist Church, 101 Arnold Road, Burlington Flats. (607) 965-8914. HOLIDAYS 2-4 p.m. Visit with Santa. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Main Street, Cooperstown.
SPEAKER SERIES 3 p.m. “Hospice and Palliative Care: Help for You and Your Loved Ones with Chronic Illness.” Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5478344.
YOGA 3:30-5 p.m. “Restorative Yoga Classes by Candlelight.” Fees apply. Dunderberg Gallery, 118 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 7832010.
HOLIDAYS—6 p.m. “Happy Pawlidays Bingo!!” Prizes, raffles and more to help the animals cared for by Super Heroes Humane Society. Minimum $10 food/beverage purchase required. Roots Public Social Club, 175 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 349-3842.
