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BRESEE’S FIGURINES BRING BACK MEMORIES, page B-4 VISIT www.
AllOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S DAILY NEWSPAPER/ONLINE COMPLIMENTARY
Oneonta, N.Y., Thursday, December 21, 2023
Volume 16, No. 9
CCS Logo, Mascot Being Phased Out COOPERSTOWN ooperstown Central School officials will systematically phase out the school’s longserving logo by June 2025. This comes as the result of a November 17, 2022 memorandum issued by the New York State Department of Education regarding an official Commissioner’s Decision— subsequently upheld in the State Supreme Court— indicating that public school districts are prohibited from using Native American mascots. According to CCS Superintendent Sarah Spross in her report to the CCS Board of Education at the meeting of June 21, “arguments that community members support the use of such imagery or that it is ‘respectful’ to Native Americans are no longer tenable.” The New York State Board of Regents, on April 18 of this year, unanimously approved new rules that will ban the use of Native American culture by schools, including names, logos and mascots. Public schools that use Native American names, mascots or imagery will lose state funding. The rule goes into effect after the 2024-2025 school year, but schools that currently have Native American logos or mascots have to commit by the end of this academic year to making a change. A silhouette of “The Indian Hunter,” a famous sculpture by John Quincy Adams Ward paying homage to author James Fenimore Cooper also referred to by some as the Deerslayer, is the current CCS mascot and logo. NYSED recommendations presented at the July 19 CCS board meeting read: “CCSD is required to make the determination as to whether or not its team name, logo, or imagery are connected to indigenous Nations or peoples. As you point out in your letter, James Fenimore Cooper is clear that Hawkeye is not indigenous (“The Deerslayer” states that both of his parents where white). However, due to his upbringing among the Lenni Lenape (what Fenimore calls the Delaware People) depictions of Hawkeye may contain indigenous imagery that is prohibited under the Part 123 regulations…Our suggestion would be to engage in Continued on page 13
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INSIDE
Photo by Wriley Nelson
Holiday Party in Pioneer Park COOPERSTOWN—Pioneer Park was the site of the Cooperstown Fire Department’s Children’s Holiday Party last Saturday, December 16. Details on page B-2.
Fox Nurses Rally against Understaffing By WRILEY NELSON ONEONTA .O. Fox nursing staff and representatives from the New York State Nurses Association held a “speak out” rally on Wednesday, December 13 to draw attention to ongoing
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staffing issues. About a dozen nurses accompanied by NYSNA personnel and community members gathered in front of the emergency room entrance to speak about their concerns about the state of the hospital’s staffing and administration. Each of the speakers pointed
out that A.O. Fox faces a 50 percent vacancy rate in nursing; under normal circumstances, the hospital has a staff of about 100 nurses, but it is currently operating with around 50. Such a severe shortage of labor power poses dire risks to patient health and to the Continued on page 12
CCS Elementary Student Bakes for Entire School
► O2K COMMENTS ON WIND PROJECT, page 4
By WRILEY NELSON
► celebrate the hunter, page 4 ► A Christmas Story a la Terry berkson, page 6 ► ‘bear’ premiers this week, page 6 ► citizens work to save local banking, page 9 ► ‘TODAY’ show to film in cooperstown, page 13 ► stagecoach withdraws oneonta plans, page B-3 ► merry christmas! Follow Breaking News On
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COOPERSTOWN ooperstown fifth grader Winston Hom made his own solution to gloomy weather and the long stretch of school and work between the holidays. The 10-year-old student spent seven hours over a weekend to bake more than 500 cookies and distribute them to every student and staff member on Monday, December 18. “I love to bake and always have,” Winston said. “I thought last Friday, ‘no one likes Mondays. How can I make it more fun?’ It took me seven hours and I had to do it all myself because my parents were busy.” As he and his friend and classmate Paxton Hazzard pushed the cookie cart around the halls, Winston explained that he comes from a Danish family and wanted to recreate a traditional family recipe. By all accounts,
his beautifully-made butter cookies were successful. “I ran into his mother, Marie-Louise, at the Fun Run on Saturday,” said Elementary Principal Amy Malcuria. “She asked me about the number of people at the school for him.” Winston worked with Malcuria in October to found the Acts of Kindness Club. AOK recently ran a turkey raffle to raise money and buy a mobility cart for a disabled school therapy dog. “Winston has done a really amazing job of recruiting friends and classmates,” Malcuria continued. “He really exemplifies what it means to be a Cooperstown Elementary student. He has such a big heart and is so inclusive, he always wants to help everyone. The club is unique here: It’s student-run and student-founded. They govern themselves and come up with their Continued on page 13
Photo provided
Winston Hom, 10, prepares to distribute 500 cookies he baked for the students and staff of Cooperstown Elementary School.
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA, OTSEGO COUNTY’S LARGEST PRINT CIRCULATION 2010 WINNERS OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER EDDM PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ONEONTA PERMIT NO. 890
A-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
Gingerbread Tradition Continues COOPERSTOWN he Otesaga Resort Hotel unveiled the latest installment in its tradition of holiday-season gingerbread house displays in early December. The display, an “Adirondack Lake and Lodge” village, weighs in at more than 100 pounds and takes up an honored place in the center of The Otesaga lobby. It took the fourperson team more than 50 hours to design, bake, Photo by Wriley Nelson assemble and decorate. “I’ve been working The Otesaga Resort Hotel’s annual gingerbread house display, “Adirondack Lake and Lodge,” is located in the hotel lobby. here for more than 20
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Cooperstown Principal Allegedly Fired COOPERSTOWN— Multiple sources contacted “The Freeman’s Journal” and “Hometown Oneonta” on Tuesday, December 19 to report that a principal within the Cooperstown Central School District has been fired. At press time, calls and e-mails to the school district and to Superintendent Sarah Spross had not been returned, and no further information was available.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3
NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by wriley nelson
DELHI—SUNY Delhi’s School of Nursing will build a state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab on campus, the university announced on Monday, December 4. The lab is funded by a $110,000.00 grant from the State University of New York’s High Needs Program, which funds academic programs that connect directly to workforce needs in New York State. The grant comes on the tail of new legislation signed earlier this year by Governor Kathy Hochul that allows nursing students to complete up to one third of their clinical training through simulation. According to a release, this is particularly significant in rural areas with fewer healthcare facilities available for clinical training. “The new simulation environment will provide our nursing students a safe, supportive place to immerse in reality-based patient care scenarios and case studies,” said Cecilia DeCotes, assistant dean of the School of Nursing, Arts and Sciences. “Our students are excited to be able to complete part of their clinicals right on campus without waiting for
clinical placement in a healthcare facility.” The lab will feature two hospital beds with interactive, hi-fidelity mannequins operated with audiovisual simulation equipment. It is expected to be fully operational in time for the fall 2023 semester.
Gunshot Caused Explosion ONEONTA—The December 9 explosion that leveled a two-story house on Richards Avenue in the Town of Oneonta and killed its inhabitant was caused by a gunshot, investigators and emergency responders announced on Monday, December 18. Otsego County Undersheriff Cameron Allison said that local and State Office of Fire Prevention and Control investigators determined that a gunshot by the house’s occupant damaged a residential gas line and resulted in a leak. It was not clear from the announcement when the firearm use took place, but numerous witnesses reported an odor of gas on the street during the day of the blast. Desmond D. Moan, 60, the home’s occupant, was killed. A neighboring house caught fire and another one was heavily damaged in the
explosion. Other damage in the area has been reported, including at least 18 houses affected and 32 people displaced. The case remains open for investigation.
Bassett Signs on to AI Pledge COOPERSTOWN—Bassett Healthcare Network was among 28 healthcare organizations to sign a White House Responsible Artificial Intelligence Pledge, it announced on Friday, December 15. The group of leading healthcare providers and payers made voluntary commitments to pursue safe, secure, and trustworthy use and purchase of AI technologies to drive improved health outcomes. They will serve to align industry action on AI around a “FAVES Principles” model, aiming to ensure that the new technologies will have healthcare outcomes that are fair, appropriate, valid, effective and safe. For more information on the White House initiative, visit https://www.whitehouse.gov/ briefing-room/blog/2023/12/14/delivering-on-thepromise-of-ai-to-improve-health-outcomes/.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
THE PARTIAL OBSERVER
EDITORIAL
Celebrate the Hunter
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n March 18, 1898, “The Freeman’s Journal” reported a four-week effort to move a 31-ton granite boulder from the western edge of the village to the “Cooper Grounds” to mark the site of Otsego Hall, the original Cooper homestead that was destroyed by fire in 1852. This is now known as Cooper Park. On May 28 of that same year, the Journal recorded that a replica of John Quincy Adams Ward’s masterpiece, “The Indian Hunter,” was mounted upon the boulder, writing that “it typifies the literary achievements of the greatest writer of purely American romance, James Fenimore Cooper.” Cooper, the first novelist to treat the American wilderness as something to be cherished and protected rather than conquered and plundered, was also arguably the first to advance a positive, albeit limited, characterization of Native Americans by imparting upon his native characters a dignity and humanity that remained largely unrecognized in literature or popular culture until decades later. The choice of The Indian Hunter to represent the village’s most noted figure serves as an illustration that by the end of the century, in Cooperstown and throughout much of the country, attitudes about native populations were progressing. One could consider, as well, the creation of The Indian Hunter a leading indicator that attitudes toward indigenous people were changing within a decade of Cooper’s death, as the public became more aware of brutal government policy toward native tribes and the implementation and acceleration of the reservation system. In its description of the statue, the Metropolitan Museum opined that Ward “imagined an Arcadian hunting scene, a stark contrast to the reservation system by then established to confine Indigenous peoples to U.S. government-specified tracts of land.” The Indian Hunter was an act of defiance against both earlier negative perceptions and actual government policy. The Indian Hunter, modeled in 1860, cast in bronze in 1866, and exhibited in the 1867 Paris Universal Exposition, was so popular with audiences at home and abroad that, in 1869, a larger-than-life cast was installed in New York’s Central Park, the first sculpture by an American artist to be placed in the then 11-year-old park. Sixteen-inch casts of the statue, of which there are 15 known, are a revered part of the collections of such notable institutions as New York’s Metropolitan Museum, the Denver Art Museum and the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth; another sold at auction in Scottsdale, Arizona last April for just under $60,000.00. The four larger-than-lifesize examples remain in New York’s Central Park, Cooperstown’s Lakefront Park, Buffalo and on the artist’s grave in Urbana, Ohio. On April 18 of this year, the New York State Board of Regents unanimously approved new rules that will ban the use of Native American culture used by schools—including names, logos and mascots. A silhouette of The Indian Hunter is the mascot of the Cooperstown schools. Failure to comply would lead to a loss of state funding. While the rule does not become effective until after the 2024-2025 school year, schools that currently have Native American logos or mascots are required to commit to making a change by the end of this academic year. The intent of the rule cannot be questioned; the vast majority of uses of Native American references—particularly when assigned to sports teams—are decidedly offensive. The Cooperstown Central School District rightly recognized this 10 years ago, when it abandoned the use of “Redskins” in 2013. However, in many cases blanket intent unintentionally exorcizes innocent victims, and we believe The Indian Hunter, ripe in dignity and devoid of offense, is a case in point. There is a short clause in the new rules that offers a possible reprieve, stating that “tribal nations may bless the use of a specific native name, logo, or mascot provided the school submits an agreement in writing within five days of the effective date of this act.” On behalf of The Indian Hunter, as it sits voiceless in solemn dignity at the epicenter of Leatherstocking Country, we urge the Cooperstown School Board to seek this blessing.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY “Hometown Oneonta” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper. They must include the writer’s name, address, email and telephone/ mobile number; the opinions expressed must be the writer’s own. Hostile, offensive, factually incorrect or excessively inflammatory content will not be published. The length must be no more than 250 words. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com.
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OTSEGO 2000
Wind Project DEIS Misleading, Incomplete
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tsego 2000 is opposed to the New Leaf Energy Stark Wind Project as it is currently proposed in northern Otsego County and southern Herkimer County. The stated goals of the project—to provide renewable energy to the people in the region at a reasonable cost and to help advance New York State’s goal to reduce and eventually eliminate the state’s reliance on fossil fuel—are admirable. There is, however, little evidence to support that the project will meet those goals and the developer has made serious omissions in the process of bringing this project forward. Most notably, the people whose lives and homes will be most affected by the project were, in the main, left out of the process. New Leaf Energy, a developer based in Massachusetts, proposes to build two large wind turbines (each approximately 650 feet high and producing a total of approximately 10 Megawatts (MW) of energy when maximally productive—in New York state, this translates to 2-3 MW on average). The parcels of land that would host these turbines and provide access and transmission infrastructure are in the Towns of Stark (Herkimer County), Warren (Herkimer County), and Springfield (Otsego County). The Draft Environmental Impact Statement submitted to the State of New York is misleading and incomplete. Although more than half of the land involved in the project is in the Town of Springfield, there is no mention of the impact on that land. This is in spite of the fact that the foundational support for one of the turbines will sit on the border of the two towns—the blades of that turbine will turn well into the Town of Springfield. The ordinances of the Town of Springfield preclude structures of that magnitude. The land parcel in the Town of Springfield is also proposed to support access roads that will carry huge trucks in the building of the project and a so-called “pole-farm” which will be for the purpose of supporting the electrical transmission infrastructure to connect the energy from the turbines to the power grid.
The impact on the Town of Springfield is not mentioned in the DEIS and the community was left out of the conversation, if indeed there was a conversation at all. In fact, it does not appear that the Towns of Stark and Warren are welcoming this project with open arms, either. A petition to stop the project has been signed by more than 200 citizens. These actions suggest that New Leaf Energy and the supporters of the project locally planned to move the project along without significant community input. In our opinion, that is the wrong way to proceed. It is unethical, it is likely illegal (in the case of Springfield), and it decreases the likelihood of a successful project. We have always been proponents of Home Rule—which should not mean that local municipalities can control every aspect of development, but rather that those municipalities should be able to set guidelines for development that are reasonable, that are commensurate with the character of their communities, and that the communities be involved in decision-making about development. We urge New Leaf Energy to step back, engage with the communities and multiple towns involved, do more and better homework, and reconsider the plan. In addition to their exclusion of important community stakeholders, there are other flaws in the New Leaf DEIS in the areas of wildlife, water management, human impact and historic preservation. With regard to wildlife impact, the statement admits a likely impact on the northern harrier but does not propose a well-developed mitigation strategy. The data it provides for bald eagle mortality is based on national data and the local observational data seems inadequate. The DEIS suggests that there could be an effect on the local water table when the supporting foundations and pads are installed—what are the plans for addressing this when it happens? The local agriculture Continued on page 10
Letters to the editor … In their opinion
Project Proposal Is Disturbing We attended the board meeting on Monday, December 11 in Springfield. The main concern was the proposal of two wind turbines being installed in the Town of Stark. After two are approved, if they are, I bet they will put up more. New Leaf will “blast” a 15foot deep trench for the foundation. Will it damage the rock bed and waters? They estimate that 400 concrete trucks will be brought in and promised to repair the access roads (in Springfield) that are damaged, but I’m not confident that they will follow through with that. They plan to sell the land immediately after they construct the wind turbines. New Leaf Energy plans to test the well water before and again afterward to show that they haven’t damaged the well water of residents in the area. They have submitted an EIS (Environmental Impact Statement), but it should have included wooded spots where the wildlife live. The vibrations and sound the turbines make have been shown to affect animals. I am very concerned about the effects the constant pounding has to whales many miles away in the ocean. Their sonar is highly sensitive and studies have shown a huge increase in beached whales due to wind turbines. What about people? The money poured into such a project will result in a -19 percent end product. How can this be an energy-efficient project? Martha Baier Richfield Springs
Photo provided
Oneonta High School teacher Lee Ferrara and SUNY Oneonta Master of Science biology students Brandon Guerrero and Kari Minissale were among those assisting with removal of the last two no-wake zone buoys on Otsego Lake for the season.
Divers Enjoy Easy Buoy Retrieval The SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station’s Volunteer Dive Team rolled out on Saturday morning, December 16, for what is normally a bracing dive— occasionally a challenging dive—to remove the last two no-wake zone buoys from Otsego Lake. Conditions this year were contrastingly benign. There was no wind, no snow, no ice and no fog. Instead, we attended to the removal and installation of spar buoys with no wind, in sunshine, and in water uncharacteristically 43 degrees warm. That temperature still caused one free-flowing regulator, but we had enough divers on hand to complete the work. Master diver Lee Ferrara was joined by rescue diver Kari Minissale, advanced open water diver Brandon Guerrero and tender Wayne Bunn at Springfield Landing. The work at Lakefront was
completed by open water diver Derek Shea, tender Christos Galanopoulos and myself. Thank you to the community and the Otsego Lake Association for your support of our work in 2023. Paul H. Lord Pierstown
Stefanik Distorts Harvard Message In her weekly update to constituents, our Congressional Representative Elise Stefanik proudly presents her efforts to have the president of Harvard, Claudine Gay, recalled from her presidency on the basis of alleged antisemitism. This is based on Gay’s statement to Stefanik concerning the importance of context in free speech. But here is the message that Gay sent out to the University, its students, graduates and officers on October 12, 2023: “We can try to be a force for something different and better...Our University rejects terrorism...our University reContinued on page 8
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023
HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-5 news from the noteworthy
tobacco-Free communities
Tobacco: Community Change Takes All of Us Compiled by Tom Heitz/SHARON STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art Museum Research Library
70 Years Ago
A program on Americanism, directed by Mrs. Foster Crosby, highlighted the Christmas party of Sidney Chapter, DAR Wednesday in the Community House. Mrs. Crosby, in a reading on Communism in this country, described a devotee to Communism as a fanatic who lives only for his party, placing that above everything. She urged Americans to exert themselves to spread Americanism so others may realize how necessary freedom is in our way of life. Howard Dunbar, faculty member of Sidney Central School, introduced members of his Americanization class who have come to us from foreign shores. Among those introduced at the gathering was Miss Eva Sjagren, who came from Helsinki, Finland in January 1950. Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Kaiser emigrated from Stuttgart, Germany in November 1952. Mrs. Hedwig Riesen came from St. Gallen, Switzerland in 1922. December 1953
50 Years Ago
The Cost of Living Council granted a 23 percent jump in the price of domestic crude oil Wednesday, setting up another big round of increases in the retail cost of gasoline and home heating oil. The $1-a-barrel increase will push the after-tax price of gasoline to 44.6 cents per gallon compared to 37.2 cents average for regular gasoline last January 10. The price of home heating oil will go up to 30.7 cents, up from a January average of 19.4 cents. At the same time, President Nixon proposed an excess profits tax to prevent oil companies from reaping huge windfall profits from the soaring prices on scarce petroleum products. An additional two-cent increase for home heating oil approved by the council two weeks ago goes on top of the hike granted Wednesday and would raise the consumer price ultimately to 32.7 cents. December 1973
40 Years Ago
The city’s $225,000 pedestrian bridge and arcade project took a giant step toward completion Monday with the arrival of the two-piece, timber bridge that will link the municipal parking garage with the Ford Block. The smaller of the two bridge sections, measuring about 41 feet in length and weighing about seven tons, was lifted into place over the Water Street exit from the parking garage using a large crane. The bridge was attached to the third floor of the parking garage and to a pair of concrete pillars with large metal brackets and two-inch-thick bolts. The larger section, 61 feet long and over 10 tons in weight, will be placed between the support pillars and the Webb Building of the Ford Block. December 1983
30 Years Ago
The Oneonta Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, has established a scholarship to assist elementary teachers in the Oneonta City Schools in obtaining further study to improve their professional performance. The scholarship honors the memory of LouElla Gridley, a member of the chapter and an Oneonta teacher. Gridley attended Oneonta Normal School from 1927 to 1930 and received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Hartwick College in 1932. She received a Master of Arts degree from Albany State Teacher’s College in 1938. December 1993
20 Years Ago
Menu for the Otsego County Senior Meals Program for the week of December 15-19: Monday – Spaghetti and sausage with sauce, green beans, warm dinner roll, citrus fruit cup. Tuesday – Roast beef with gravy, baked potato with sour cream, brussel sprouts, wheat bread, and pudding. Wednesday – Sliced turkey and cheese, tomato soup, rye bread, cherry poke cake. Thursday – Chili, rice, orange juice, corn bread, Jell-O with topping. Friday – Chicken breast, onion gravy, mashed potatoes, beets, pumpernickel bread and fruit cup. December 2003
Solution: “Wow, Mom!” (December 14)
W
e are at that time of year when many of us make New Year resolutions to improve our lives in some way that corelates with a fresh beginning for the new year. Quitting tobacco use is at the top of that list of resolutions for many smokers and vapers. The New York State Smokers’ Quitline reports January is its busiest time of year and anticipates this January will be no different. While cessation resources are crucial for those seeking to quit, combatting nicotine addiction requires extra support, not only from friends and family, but Photo provided from the larger community. This Oneonta High School junior and Reality Check leader Bryson Hubert and is because nicotine is one of the TFC-DOS Community Engagement Coordinator Jennifer Hill share information on how to prevent youth from initiating tobacco use at the Welcome most addictive substances in the Home Committee’s Block Party in Oneonta this past August. world. Triggers for tobacco use abound, including exposure to ings, giving their residents and staff cleaner, secondhand smoke when frequenting businesses healthier air. In 2022, to honor its commitment to or enjoying local parks, or even living in multiproviding a healthy environment for all students, unit housing. Stores that heavily market tobacco faculty and staff, Hartwick College adopted products at the check-out counter can also influa tobacco-free campus policy that prohibits ence smokers to make impulse buys and deter smoking, vaping, and other types of tobacco use their quit attempts. on college grounds and properties. Communities can support tobacco users trying Local businesses, such as Green Earth Health to quit by creating and normalizing tobacco-free Food Market in Oneonta, have also adopted environments in outdoor spaces and in multi-unit tobacco-free grounds policies to protect their staff housing. Neahwa Park Apartments did just that and customers from exposure to secondhand by adopting a smoke-free policy in their buildContinued on page 7 By MERL REAGLE
Swapping Spree (4)… A bit of transpositional analysis ACROSS 1 Belts one 7 The Bee follower? 11 Nature study: abbr. 15 Nile wader 19 New York city or river 20 Milieu for Lemieux 21 Tibetan priest 22 The Rock star 23 King who scratched himself constantly? 25 Ready to sail 26 TV legend Trebek 27 Sign at the end of a really long line? 30 First name in an Entebbe incident 33 SeaWorld swimmer 34 Lose oomph 35 Hazel follower 36 J ust Shoot Me character 38 Denver hrs. 41 Scandal involving those eels in Washington? 46 U.S. city with a lot of candle shops? 51 Chicago trains 107 On 52 Dark skies, for example 108 ___ particle 53 Otis Redding setting 109 Suspect: slang 54 Org. for OR folks 111 Silents star 55 Waste matter 115 Backyard bubbler 57 Mun. code item 116 Headline about firemen 58 One way to know if an who rescued a stuck employee has secretly been Santa? to Hawaii? 123 TV commercial award 61 Caravan stop 124 Delhi weight (or back63 Sketchy subject? ward, tons) 64 Gilda in Gilda 125 Priceline.com’s least 65 Parlor, e.g. popular hat? 66 Boosts 129 Symbol of a sort 67 Belgian river 130 Black, to poets 69 Beginning of a path? 131 Matty of baseball 71 Intense stars 132 Bird of baseball 74 Hands on ___ 133 Mideast gulf 78 Crime writer Rule 134 Tittles 80 Microwave: slang 135 “___ we forget” 82 Cake finisher 136 Export add-on 84 Glock ’n’ spiel grp. DOWN 85 Sidestep 1 Ad ___ 88 Words of introduction in 2 Devil’s tail? The Hustler? 3 Onetime jet letters 92 Actress Bartok 4 He led a feudal existence 93 Ankle bone 5 Nome home 95 Vintage car 6 “___ is human” 96 Red stones 7 Chapman and Greene 97 Breathe hard 8 German article 99 Recording tape 9 MIT grad, perh. 100 Nickname for an old white 10 Trapshooting type Peugeot? 103 Transposed or not, tried to 11 Banderilla sufferer 12 They’re out of control hit a ball? 106 Org. that regulates rates 13 Forget 14 Unconvincing quality
15 “Have to stay home ... sorry” 16 Indonesian getaway 17 “___ the picture” 18 Like most perfume ads 24 Caesar’s 2100 28 Lyme Disease bug 29 P lay that introduced the word “robot” 30 Place to refresh 31 Intake monitors 32 How brides often dress 37 Sacked out 39 Hit the buzzer? 40 Afraid 42 Poly finish 43 Coach Stagg 44 Actress Hatcher 45 Extremes 47 Above, to Anton 48 Fixed amount 49 Refusenik’s words 50 Rigoletto aria, “___ nome” 55 Floor model 56 Bribe 58 Nonprofessional 59 Babe villain 60 D isadvantaged, singingwise 62 Timber tree 66 Beneficial 68 Doll makeup? 70 Tolkien tree beings 72 Uris’s QB ___ 73 Bitter, old-style
75 Creepy crawlers 76 Tee store 77 ___ Remo 79 Court divider 81 Actress Deborah 83 Singer McEntire 85 Ed Wood in Ed Wood 86 Track shape 87 Actor Andrews 88 Foofaraw 89 Computerized captain 90 Lavish attention 91 Joan in Suspicion 94 Hooked 98 Big storm 100 Succotash, partly 101 Beat by a nose 102 Desal-plant monitor 104 Trav. heading 105 Race city 110 Flower part 112 Qtly. payment recipient 113 Not ___ (mediocre) 114 “I ___ Symphony” 116 Bruin’s home 117 Trudge 118 Buster Brown’s dog 119 Rail rider 120 New Haven campus 121 Many hospital plans 122 Ruckus 126 “___ said!” 127 North Pole worker 128 Ring master?
THURSday, DECEMBER 21, 2023
A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA LIFE SKETCHES
TERRY BERKSON
Turkey Fishing: a Christmas Story
O
ne Christmas, we almost had a perfect storm for disaster. Our well was running low. Our stove was on the fritz and we foolishly bought a frozen Butterball turkey only a couple of days before the holiday. When the stove repair man arrived and came up with a grave diagnosis, things looked dismal—the main board, which amounts to the brain of an electric stove, wasn’t working right. After a call to the supply house we were informed that the part was no longer available. This left us with only the lower, smaller oven working. My wife, Alice, often uses it to bake pies and other low-profile dishes—but not a turkey! We needed to buy a new stove, but unfortunately during the busy holiday season it would take several days to have one delivered. “I told you to get it fixed two weeks ago,” Alice scolded as I looked sheepishly at the frozen turkey that was sitting in the sink under the faucet that was spewing our precious water. Now, I had to come up with a solution. To get the turkey to fit in that shallow lower drawer, we’d have to cut it in half the long way and lay it down so that the breast and legs wouldn’t be burned by the low hung electric heating coil. “How do you cut a frozen turkey in half?” my wife asked. “I’ll get the wood splitter.” “No you won’t!” Alice objected. I had another idea. Running water’s the best way to quick thaw a turkey. It exchanges the BTUs much more rapidly than exposure to plain air. The more water the better. With the well already low, I didn’t want to waste anymore H2O. Patches’ Pond was just down the road. I’d set the turkey in the pond with its unlimited amount of water and the bird would thaw out in no time. “You’re going to put the turkey in that muddy, frog-filled pond?” Alice protested. “It’s wrapped in plastic,” I countered. “Plastic schmastic. It’s a smelly idea!” “The kids are coming—for Christmas!” I reasoned. “What’ll we give them to eat?” “If you listened to me,” she answered, “and called the repair man when I told you to, we would have known we needed a new stove.” “That’s water under the bridge,” I said. “Speaking of water…” I shut the faucet, lifted the turkey out of the sink, and headed for my pickup. When I arrived at the pond, I was surprised to find it had shrunk to a much lower level. So, I got a piece of rope from the truck, tied it around the turkey’s leg and tossed it into the water several feet from shore. Then I secured the rope to a nearby sapling. A cold gust of wind made me put down my ear flaps and engage the top button of my coat. That night, I put the finishing touches on the tree as Alice busied herself preparing the ingredients for stuffing, candied sweet potatoes, plum pudding, apple pie, struffoli and the rest. Christmas songs were melting out of the radio as a cold wind
howled outside. I pictured Patches’ Pond working on the turkey. After a little coaxing, Alice admitted that I had come up with an ingenious lastminute solution. The kids would be arriving the next day. In the morning, I drove over to the pond to pull in the thawed-out turkey but was shocked to find that the small body of water had frozen over. I untied the rope from the tree and began to pull, but the ice held fast and the turkey didn’t move. I yanked several times but didn’t even hear a crack, so I tied the rope to a stick that served as a handle for more leverage and pulled as hard as I could. The turkey didn’t budge. I was afraid that if I pulled any more the rope would break or the turkey’s leg would come off. Just then, a pickup truck that was passing by came to a sliding halt. A bearded guy rolled down his window and yelled, “What are you fishing for?” I thought fast and answered, “Bullheads.” “That’s a pretty heavy line for bullheads,” the trucker observed. “There’s some big ones in here,” I returned as the guy shook his head, rolled up his window and took off. I didn’t want to risk stepping out on the ice, so I drove back to the barn where I found a metal fence post that I thought was long enough to chop an open channel to my icebound bird. The blade on the post worked like a charm and in no time I hauled in my turkey. It was thawed out enough to be cut in half. In short order, Alice loaded the split bird into the lower oven drawer. The unusual location made her bend many times to check the cooking progress. When the turkey was ready and roasted to a golden brown, she removed it and we skewered it so that it sat proudly in one piece for a photo of the Christmas table. The kids didn’t seem to notice that the two halves were pinned together. No one had an inkling of my having fished the bird out of the pond in the morning. There were 10 of us seated and at one point I was alarmed to hear the word “frog,” but it was just my grandson telling his little brother not to be a hog—with the cranberry sauce. As I carved the turkey I thought that my wife, from across the table, was flashing looks of admiration in my direction. For sure I had saved Christmas dinner. Later, as I was helping to dry and put away dishes while most of the family was couched on Tryptophan, my exhausted wife put her arms around me and whispered lovingly, “Terry, I have something else I’d like you to put in the pond.” “What is it?” I asked, looking toward the freezer. “Our brainless stove—with the backbreaking lower draw!” Terry Berkson’s articles have appeared in “New York” magazine, “Automobile” magazine and many others. His memoir, “Corvette Odyssey,” has received many good reviews: “highly recommended with broad appeal,” says “Library Journal.”
Photo by Josh Jones
“Bear,” portrayed by Devlin Readie.
Local Filmmaker’s New Movie Brings Hometown Story to Life GILBERTSVILLE n a return to his roots, Gilbertsville filmmaker Joseph C. Stillman is set to unveil his latest movie project, “Bear,” this Friday and Saturday at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center. The film, an intimate drama addressing the struggles of a Gulf War veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder, promises to be a deeply personal journey for both Stillman and the local community. According to a press release, back in 1983, during the production of “Cook and Peary, A Race to the Pole,” Stillman found himself in the frigid heart of Canada’s Ellesmere Island and Greenland. The experience sparked a desire to tell stories closer to home, away from the challenges of faraway locations. “I always felt we had a local talent pool capable of creating substantive, original movies on both sides of the camera, and if given the opportunity, our area could compete with anyone in the industry,” Stillman recalled. Fast forward to 1990, when Stillman, in collaboration with WSKG-TV, created the first regional dramatic TV series in the history of PBS, called “Susquehanna Stories.” The project was celebrated as “Best Original Series” by the New York State Broadcasters Association and affirmed Stillman’s belief in the storytelling potential of his community. His award-winning film, “Ruby Moon”—one of five segments for that series, written by Gilbertsville resident Diane Gallo—was the story of a young girl coming of age set against the background of the Civil War. Returning to Gilbertsville last May to create this original drama, Stillman collaborated with long-time friend, actor and producer Barry Murphy. “We’ve known each other for 25 years, worked with “A” list actors, directors, and producers but never on the same project, so it was a great experience to finally do something together,” Stillman said of Murphy. “Bear” weaves a poignant narrative around a 1991 Gulf War veteran grappling with PTSD, drawing inspiration from Stillman’s real-life interactions with veterans, the press release reads. “I wrote this film based on a five-year involvement I had with a Marine drill instructor and 25 other veterans I got to know from a 2003 Iraq War documentary I did who all had PTSD,” Stillman said. The film, although fictional, is a tribute to resilience and a call for empathy toward those dealing with PTSD. “Bear” was filmed in Gilbertsville and in western Otsego County, featuring a cast of local talent including Devlin Readie, Steve Dillon, Doug Decker, and others. The movie will premiere on Friday and Saturday, December 22 and 23, at the Foothills, 24 Market Street, Oneonta, with show times at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Following each screening, the filmmakers and the cast will be present to share their personal insights.
I
Photo by Josh Jones
Producer/Director Joseph C. Stillman and actor Gary Stevens discuss a shot.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
Letters
Continued from page 4 jects hate—hate of Jews, hate of Muslims, hate of any group of people based on their faith, their national origin, or any aspect of their identity... It’s in the freedom to speak that we reveal our characters...how we go forward as a community is up to each of us.” This a call to respond to antisemitism, not an endorsement of it. We note that Stefanik was dismissed from her Harvard committee at the Kennedy School as a senior advisor because of her persistent intel® lectual dishonesty in denying the validity of the past presidential election. Her distortion of Gay’s position and her call for the resignation of [Harvard’s] president reflects her resentment of her censorship by that institution. Indeed, context is important. Mary Anne Whelan Cooperstown
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Cobleskill; Oneonta’s program leader Bryson for educating Welcome and Narcan Hubert Training committees, his community on how both started by Oneonta the vaping epidemic has resident Kathy Varadi; impacted his peers and the Oneonta Area school. NAACP; Bassett Cancer The impact of all these Services Provider, with actions by businesses, Public Education and property owners, and Community Outreach municipalities go beyond Specialist Mitzi Satchett; supporting smokers and the Wilmot Cancer vapers who want to quit. Institute’s Center for Collectively, they help Rural Health, with liaison prevent young people Mindy Robinson; St. from ever starting and Peter’s Health Partners; that’s really the key. Delaware, Otsego and Nearly nine out of 10 Schoharie Counties’ adults who smoke cigaChambers of Commerce; rettes daily first started the Oneonta Rotary Club; before the age of 18. ® County the Schoharie People who start smoking Human Services Council, at an early age are also LEAF®and SC Alcohol more likely to develop a and Substance Abuse severe addiction to nicoCoalition; and ® Housing tine than those who start Visions. at a later age. We want to ® give a Community change special shout-out to takes all of us. We look Oneonta High School forward to working with junior and Reality Check current and new partners youth engagement in 2024. To join us or
Merry Christmas &
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7 to learn more, please visit our website, www. GoTobaccoFreeDos. org, e-mail us at tobaccofreedos@gmail.com or call (607) 376-7910. For cessation help, contact the NYS Quitline at www.nysmokefree.com Jeanie Orr and Jennifer Hill are program manager and community engagement coordinator, respectively, for Tobacco-Free Communities: Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie.
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A-8 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Legal
Legal nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO INDEX # EF2018-532 FILED: 11/16/2023 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE AND SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Otsego County as the Place of Trial. Designation of Venue is based upon situs of the Subject Property. DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED TRUST SERIES INABS 2006-E, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES INABS 2006-E, Plaintiff, against ERNEST O. BENNETT, CITIBANK, N.A., NY STATE DEP’T OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, Defendant(s). Upon the Attorney’s Affirmation of Susan A. West, Esq. of the law offices of Aldridge Pite, LLP, the attorneys for the Plaintiff, dated November 13, 2023; and upon all the exhibits annexed hereto and in support hereof; and upon all the prior papers and proceedings heretofore had herein; LET, YVONNE BURNS A/K/A YVONNE L ALLEN AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT; ERIC E BENNETT AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT; CARLEEN M BENNETT SIMPSON A/K/A LISA SIMPSON AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT; CLAUDIA BENNETT AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint; UNKNOWN HEIRS
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AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, if living, and if they be dead, any and all other persons, who may claim as devises, distributees, legal representatives and successors in interest of said defendant, all of whom and whose places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff and cannot after diligent inquire be ascertained; and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, show cause before this Court as IAS Part BDB, to be held at the OTSEGO County Courthouse, 32 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, on the 16th day of February, 2024, at 4:30 o’clock, of that day or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard, WHY, an Order should not be entered granting the following relief: a) amending the caption by striking defendant ERNEST O. BENNETT, as said defendant is deceased and no longer has an interest in the subject premises, and substituting in place thereof YVONNE BURNS A/K/A YVONNE L. ALLEN AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNET; ERIC E BENNETT AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT; CARLEEN M BENNETT SIMPSON A/K/A LISA SIMPSON AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT; CLAUDIA BENNETT AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributess, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having of claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint (hereinafter “Claudia Bennett as Heir at Law and Next of Kin of Ernest O. Bennett”) and UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, if living, and if they be dead, any and all other persons, who may claim as devises, distributees, legal representatives and successors
Legal
in interest of said defendant, all of whom and whose places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff and cannot after diligent inquire be ascertained (hereinafter “Unknown Heirs and Distributees of Ernest O. Bennett”), pursuant to CPLR §1015 and 1021; and, b) amending the caption by adding as a necessary party defendant UNITED STATE OF AMERICAINTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; and c) that the Court appoint a Guardian Ad Litem and Military Attorney for defendant(s) “Claudia Bennett as Heir at Law and Next of Kin of Ernest O. Bennett” and “Unknown Heirs and Distributees of Ernest O. Bennett” of said defendants who may be infants, absentees or incompetents, or unknown successor in interest of defendant(s), “Claudia Bennett as Heir at Law and Next of Kin of Ernest O. Bennett” and “Unknown Heirs and Distributees of Ernest O. Bennett”, who may be deceased and to protect and defend the interests of “Claudia Bennett as Heir at Law and Next of Kin of Ernest O. Bennett” and “Unknown Heirs and Distributees of Ernest O. Bennett” in this action; and d) for such other and further relief as this Court deems just and proper. SUFFICIENT CAUSE APPEARING THEREFORE, ORDERED, that service of the instant Order to Show Cause, together with the papers upon which it was granted, be served upon YVONNE BURNS A/K/A YVONNE L ALLEN AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, ERIC E BENNETT AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, CARLEEN M BENNETT SIMPSON A/K/A LISA SIMPSON AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF ERNEST O. BENNETT, and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE pursuant to CPLR Article 3 on or before December 8, 2023, be deemed good and sufficient service; and it is further ORDERED, that service of the instant signed Order to Show Cause, together with the summons in the above-entitled action upon the defendants for “Claudia Bennett as Heir at Law and Next of
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LEGALS
Kin of Ernest O. Bennett and Unknown Heirs and Distributees of Ernest O. Bennett”, by publication thereof, together with a brief notice and brief statement of the object of the action and brief description of the property, in two (2) newspapers in the English language, The Daily Star (Oneonta), and The Freemans Journal (Cooperstown ) once a week for four (4) consecutive weeks, the first of such publication to be made within thirty (30) days after entry of this order, which time to effectuate the first publication is hereby extended to forty five (45) days after the entered date of this order; and it is further ORDERED, that service of the instant Order to Show Cause, together with the papers upon which it was granted, be served upon CITIBANK, N.A., NY STATE DEP`T OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, LOUIS M. SPIZZIRO, ESQ. (Attorney for Defendant, Ernest O. Bennett, deceased), and THOMAS HEGEMAN, ESQ., the Court Appointed Referee, by first class mail on or before December 8, 2023, be deemed good and sufficient service; and is further ORDERED, that any defendant serve and file any answering papers seven (7) days prior to the return date of this motion. Date: November 16, 2023. Brian D. Burns, J.S.C. TO THE ABOVENAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until sixty (60) days after service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN
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DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. WE ARE A DEBT COLLECTOR AND ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. The Object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises known as 1457 Butternut Road, Unadilla, NY 13849, bearing tax map designation Section: 304.00, Block 2, Lot 3.00, which is more fully described in the Schedule “A” attached to the Complaint. ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being near Butternuts, County of OTSEGO and State of New York. Aldridge Pite, LLP. Attorneys for the Plaintiff, 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747. Our File 1221-46679B 4LegalJan.11 Legal nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO Index No. EF2022-470 Date filed: August 5, 2022 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Premises being foreclosed: 2420 State Hwy 23 and State Hwy 23, Morris, NY 13808 ACTION TO FORECLOSE MORTGAGE ON PROPERTY SITUATED IN OTSEGO COUNTY
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Santander Bank, N.A. f/k/a Sovereign Bank, N.A. f/k/a Sovereign Bank, Plaintiff, -againstThe Unknown Heirs of Louis B. DeArmas, Edward DeVilliers, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance-Tax Compliance Division-C.O.ATC and Internal Revenue ServiceUnited States of America “JOHN DOE #1” through and including “JOHN DOE#25”, the defendants last named in quotation marks being intended to designate tenants or occupants in possession of the herein described premises or portions thereof, if any there be, said names being fictitious, their true name being unknown to plaintiff, Defendant(s). TO THE ABOVE DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer, or if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of the Summons exclusive of the day of service or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. In case of your failure to appear, or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in this Complaint. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Brian D. Burns, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Otsego County, entered Oct. 4, 2023 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Otsego County Clerk’s Office. THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a mortgage recorded in the Otsego County Clerk’s Office on Feb. 17, 2006 in Book 1477, mortgage page 143, Document #2006-00042849, covering premises k/a 2420 State Hwy 23, Morris, NY 13808 a/k/a Section 222.00, Block 1. Lot 44.00 And State Hwy 23, Morris NY 13808 a/k/a Section 222.00, Block 1, Lot 45.00. Plaintiff designates OTSEGO
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County as the place for trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: October 30, 2023 Westbury, New York Edward Wiener, Esq. Stein, Wiener & Roth, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 (516)-742-1212 79276/DOVEN #101022 4LegalJan.11 Legal nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO INDEX NO. EF2023-307 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates OTSEGO as the place of trial situs of the real property Mortgaged Premises: 6625 COUNTY HIGHWAY 18, WEST WINFIELD, NY 13491 District: , Section: 33.00, Block: 1, Lot: 2.01 MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC Plaintiff, vs. MARY ELLEN WARD, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD A. WARD; HEIRS AND DIS-
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TRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD A. WARD; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD A. WARD, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to
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appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $172,500.00 and interest, recorded on August 10, 2010, in Instrument Number 2010-3685, of the Public Records of OTSEGO County, New York., covering premises known as 6625 COUNTY HIGHWAY 18, WEST WINFIELD, NY 13491. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. OTSEGO County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: November 3, 2023 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff continued Pg. 9
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-9
Morris, Butternut Valley Citizens Unite To Save Local Banking By MAGGIE BRENNER MORRIS ollowing the October announcement of the closure of the Morris branch of Community Bank, NA, scheduled for January 2024, residents of the Butternut Valley have banded together to find a solution to the banking desert the closure creates. The geographical area extends from Exeter to Mount Upton and includes not only the town and village of Morris, but also the towns of Butternuts and New Lisbon and the villages of Gilbertsville and Garrattsville. A public meeting, coordinated by the Butternut Valley Alliance, was held November 20 to identify the greatest concerns to the community. From that meeting, a working group of volunteers was established. Initial steps involved a letter-writing campaign and petitions to encourage CBNA to keep the branch open. A petition was also circulated and signed by residents pledging to withdraw funds from CBNA. Attempts by the BVA to meet with representatives of the bank were rebuffed. Hal Wentworth, senior vice president of Retail Banking and Marketing for CBNA, spoke by telephone with BVA Chair and New Lisbon Town Supervisor Ed Lentz, and stated that the decision to close was final and would not be overturned. In that conversation, and in a subsequent email to Lentz and in one to Morris Town Supervisor John Distefano, Wentworth also confirmed that CBNA would seek to sell the building the branch occupies in the center of Morris. He also clarified that there would be no use restrictions in the sale, thus quashing rumors that the current bank building could not be sold for use by another bank. That information opens the door for the Save Our Bank committee to explore relationships with other financial institutions. To that end, the committee has developed a Request for Proposal that is being sent to banks and credit unions in the area to determine who is most interested and best equipped to fill the financial services void left in the Butternut
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from Pg. 8 Orit Avraham, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalDec.21 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of NMBR 9 HOLDINGS, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/7/23. 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, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.25 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of CHASE ORGAN COMPANY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/11/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 1529
Valley by CBNA’s departure. Initial communications have indicated there is interest by some of the institutions to support the valley’s needs. “There has been a bank in that historic building since 1856,” said Morris Town Supervisor John Distefano. “It is part of the fabric of the community. Not only is our group working to ensure continued banking services, we want to preserve the historic nature and use of our village buildings.” “The Butternut Valley is open for business,” stated Tom Washbon, BVA board member. “In the last decade, at least 25 new businesses have opened and remained in business and there appears to be an increase in the number of real estate transfers as well. The community is growing.” One example of this growth is the booming success of The Gatehouse coffee shop that recently opened across the street from the bank. “We would hate to see them or any other of our local businesses affected by the closure of Community Bank,” continued Washbon. The impact will be felt not only by residents and businesses, but by the municipalities, as well. “The Community Bank closure will cause issues for our town tax collector, town clerk and myself,” explained Town of Butternuts Supervisor Bruce Giuda. “Any cash received will have to be transported to another Community Bank branch, the closest being 15 miles away—one way. Reimbursement for transportation costs to staff will be a minimum of $20.00 each time a deposit is made. Other towns and villages in the Butternut Valley will be similarly inconvenienced. With its other recent closings in Otsego County, I’m having a hard time seeing the ‘community’ in Community Bank these days.” “BVA and other concerned residents feel that the continued presence of a physical financial institution is key to that growth and stability and are committed to fulfilling this goal,” concluded Lentz. Maggie Brenner is vice chair of the Butternut Valley Alliance.
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Co Hwy 39, Worcester, NY 12197, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.25
whom process against it may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to The LLC, 170 Hughes Road, West Winfield, NY 13491, USA. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity. 6LegalJan.18
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) Name: Bailey’s Plumbing and Heating LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State Of New York (SSNY) on 11/06/2023. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against may be served. SSNY should mail process to Zachary Bailey: 231 Harris Hill Rd. Morris, NY 13808. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.18 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of D&L RV RENTAL, LLC Art. Of Org. Filed Sec. of State of NY 12/1/2023. Off. Loc. : Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent upon
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Segina & Associates, LLC. Filed with SSNY on 11/10/12. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 1390 County Highway 11, Mount Vision, NY 13810. Purpose: any lawful. 6LegalJan.18 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of The Turk’s Plantation LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 3, 2023. Office Location: Otsego County SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 810 Mooney Road, Worcester,
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Cooperstown Patrolmen Brad Ross, Jess Lanza and Tom Scarafile join Chief Frank Cavalieri (second from left) at the Oneonta Walmart for “Shop with a Cop.”
Cops Shop for Benefit of Kids ONEONTA embers of the Village of Cooperstown police force joined other New York State and Otsego County agencies at Walmart for “Shop with a Cop” on Saturday, December 16. Eighteen children with a combined 23 police officers got into the holiday spirit. “It was such an enjoyable day for the law enforcement agencies to interact with the kids and their families,” said Village of Cooperstown Police Chief Frank Cavalieri. “We helped to ensure they have a merry Christmas. We truly appreciate all of the support and all of the people who made donations to make this such a massive success.”
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Jim Leyland Elected to Baseball Hall NASHVILLE im Leyland, who took three franchises to the postseason and led the Florida Marlins to the 1997 World Series title, earned election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, December 3 via the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee process. Leyland was a candidate on the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee Managers/Executive/Umpires Ballot, which was considered by a 16-member committee that held meetings today in Nashville, Tennessee. The eight-person
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NY 12197 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.18 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Ceasar Dante LLC. Filed with SSNY on 1/29/2014. Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 1950 E. Main Street S. 205a Mohegan Lake NY 10547. Purpose: any lawful 6LegalJan.18 Legal nOtice Notice of formation of Firefly Meadow Farm, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/17/23. Office location: Otsego County, NY. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC, 959 County Rd 7, Otego, NY 13825. Purpose: Any lawful act under NY LLC Law. 6LegalJan.18
ballot was comprised of candidates whose primary contribution to the game came from 1980 to the present. Leyland was named on 15 of 16 ballots as the only candidate to reach the 75-percent threshold necessary for election. Hall of Fame Weekend 2024 will be held July 19-22 in Cooperstown, with the Induction Ceremony slated for Sunday, July 21, 2024. The BBWAA election results will be announced at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 23, on MLB Network.
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Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.11
NY 11228. Purpose: General. 6LegalJan.4
Notice of Formation of
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RSD Enterprises, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the SSNY on 6/29/2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RSD Enterprises LLC, c/o Robert Dunbar 235 Flax Island Rd, Otego, NY 13825. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.11 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Foreign LLC Wanderlust Properties, LLC (DBA Wanderlust Rental Properties, LLC) Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/15/23. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 59 Woody Hill Rd., Hope Valley, RI 02832
Notice of Formation of Aaron Fisher Enterprises LLC Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State (SSNY) on November 1st, 2023 Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 20 Harrison Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.11 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of GIAMBRONE SELF PUBLISHERS LLC. Filed 9/18/23. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 12 Parish Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820. Registered Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave , Ste 202, Bklyn,
Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/13/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to PO Box 1455, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.4 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of Water Rock, LLC, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on November 15, 2023. NY office Location: OTSEGO County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 2570 County Hwy 39, Worcester, New York 12197. General Purposes.
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6LegalJan.4 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: OLD HOMESTEAD FARM LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 15 August 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 185 Gunset Ski Bowl Rd, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.4 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: POSTOAK LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8
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November 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 15 South St, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.4 Legal nOtice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: EPIC LANDSCAPES SUPPLY LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 8 November 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 908, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalJan.4
THURSday, DECEMBER 21, 2023
A-10 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Renewable Energy Project Proposal Causes Stir in Springfield By DAN SULLIVAN SPRINGFIELD he Towns of Stark, Warren and Springfield are included in the proposed New Leaf Stark 1 and Stark 2 Wind Farm project, encompassing more than 400 acres across the three towns. Last week, on consecutive nights, the Towns of Springfield and Stark held regular meetings during which the dominant topic was the project. Both meetings were well attended, and the prevailing sentiment among the public at both was in opposition to the project. New Leaf Energy has proposed to erect two 650-foot turbines in the Town of Stark, with a nameplate rating of 10 Megawatts (5 MW). According to the project materials, one of the turbines would be placed some 72 feet from the Springfield town line. At the stated height, these structures would be the highest in all of Upstate New York and would interfere with the viewshed of at
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Continued from page 4 and downstream waterways may be affected— both critical to the economy of the region. The health and wellbeing of people in the surrounding areas may be impacted. Surely offering window curtains for the purpose of decreasing “flicker” effects on health and quality of life is inadequate. If such a project were to go forward, those people potentially affected should be involved in deciding mitigation strategies and appropriate compensation. And finally, there is the question of the impact of this project on the historic nature of the region. While we recognize the urgency of reducing the consumption of fossil fuel and the potential benefit of renewable energy projects, how will these projects affect the historical significance of the area. The eastern viewshed (and its religious significance) from the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox monastery in Jordanville will be altered. The viewshed from Otsego Lake and the Glimmerglass National Register Historic District will be affected. We don’t know how that will change the desirability of any of this property or how it will affect the region’s economy. But once again, the people who live in the region and depend on that economy should have a voice. And if the project should proceed, the communities should be compensated. New Leaf Energy says that the residents of Stark will be able to purchase
least one National Register of Historic Places site, the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville. But that’s only the beginning of the complex issues surrounding this project. Any action in New York that involves land use is subject to State Environmental Quality Review. To comply with this law, a municipal body—such as a planning board—assumes Lead Agency status to complete the review. The Town of Stark took this role on, despite the fact that it does not have a Planning Board. The Town of Springfield, for its part, did not participate in the review, even though the largest portion of acreage in the project is in Springfield. While the proposed turbines are to be placed in Stark, one is very close to Springfield, and any ice throw, blade damage or other accident could potentially impact the town. At the Public Hearing in Stark on November 14—which was not properly noticed in Springfield, according
energy from them. That seems backwards to us— New Leaf Energy should be compensating those residents for the privilege of using the land. Our world is facing an existential crisis related to climate change. Our
region must contribute to the solution. Renewable energy projects will play a role in the solution (though they alone will not likely accomplish the goal of elimination of fossil fuel dependence). Preservation of forested
to officials—several voices were raised in opposition to the project. Multiple comments were directed at the flawed environmental review, which has led to a Draft Environmental Impact Statement that is reportedly even more flawed. Criticism of the review, along with other complaints about the project, dominated both meetings. The entire Stark Town Board attended Springfield’s meeting. Also attending both meetings was a delegation from Holy Trinity Monastery. Very Rev. Archimandrite Nektarios Harding released the following statement from the Bishop of Syracuse: “We have had meetings with local assemblymen and contacted our local and federal representatives, the State Office of [Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation], and the elected officials in the towns of Stark, Springfield, and Warren, expressing our concern and opposition to the New Leaf Stark Wind project. areas for carbon sequestration will also play a crucial role. We welcome meaningful co-design and collaboration by governmental and industry leaders with our local communities to determine optimum development
“We have petitions signed by over 100 of our neighbors as well as an online petition that has received over 2,500 worldwide signatures to date, all supporting our position that no windmills be constructed within the visibility of the monastery property. “As a focal point for the hamlet of Jordanville, and for that matter much of the area, Holy Trinity Monastery welcomes pilgrims from around the world who come to the monastery to retreat from the world and appreciate the magnificent panorama offered by our Three-bar cross location. Having a monstrosity such as the proposed windmills, which are half the size of the Empire State Building, just beyond our eastern property line and visible from everywhere is not acceptable to the community as a whole, and to Holy Trinity Monastery in particular. We shall continue to pursue every legal and spiritual avenue available to ensure this project, and any others like it, are not realized.”
of renewable energy projects. There are costs associated with solutions to our climate crisis. Climate justice—environmental justice—demands that that cost be borne proportionately by all of us who have contributed
to the crisis. Expecting rural communities to bear a heavier burden without representation in the decision-making is wrong. James Dalton is president of the Otsego 2000 Board of Directors.
The “Red Door” Church (First United Presbyterian)
Welcomes You Join us for Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7:00 pm - 4VOEBZ, December 24th In
person Main Street and Walling Avenue Oneonta Or join us online: Link: meet.google.com/viu-hpxa-mjg Phone: 1 301-857-2390 // PIN: 931769968 Church Office: 607-432-7520 reddoorchurch@stny.rr.com The Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Walton-Leavitt
In a religion that was born in a barn, an open door goes without saying.
Our church invites you to join us in the worship and fellowship of Jesus Christ. The door is always open.
Our Schedule for Christmas is:
Christmas Eve December 24, 2023
“For unto us a child is born...” Join us for
Christmas Eve Service 7 pm Please be safe. Because of the pandemic, we will only have one service this year. Please join us!
Elm Park United Methodist Church 401 Chestnut Street Oneonta
elmparkumconeonta.org
No reservations required
Christ ChurCh, EpisCopal
Fourth Advent - 9 am Family Eucharist - 5 pm Service of Carols - 10:30 pm Festival Choral Eucharist - 11 pm
46 River Street, Cooperstown 607-547-9555 · www.christchurchcooperstown.org The Rev’d Nathan Ritter, Rector
Christmas Day
Christmas Eve – sunday, December 24
Holy Eucharist - 10 am
4 pm - Festal Holy Communion with Christmas Pageant and Choir
Christmas Day – Monday, December 25 The Feast of the Nativity 9 am - Holy Communion
Join us! All are welcome!
December 25, 2023
Join us here at St. James’ Church as we celebrate the Coming of the Christ Child
St. James Episcopal Church
305 Main Street, Oneonta • 607-432-1458 www.stjamesoneonta.org • Like us on facebook
THURSDAY, December 21, 2023
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-11
OBITUARIES of Oneonta’s only family-owned funeral home, Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono at 51 Dietz Street.
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LEIA BAILEY COFFIN
Leia Bailey Coffin 1978-2023
O N E O N TA — L e i a R. Coffin (Bailey), 45, passed away after a lengthy illness on December 12, 2023 at Strong Memorial in Rochester. She was born November 30, 1978 in Oneonta, the daughter of Charles L. and Pauline (York) Bailey. Leia graduated from Oneonta High School and SUNY Oneonta. She was a case manager for both treatment court and children and youth services. For the last four years, Leia was proud to have been homeschooling her son, Tyler. He believes she was the best mom anyone could ask for and is the reason he is alive today. She had a special relationship with her sister, Lisa, who held her hand every day and stayed with her until she passed. Leia adored her niece, Gabriella, whom she loved to play cards with and who admired that Leia saw the good in everything. She found so much joy in her nephew, Anthony, who always made her laugh. Leia loved her dogs, Bella, Princess and Chloe. Yellow roses were her favorite flower. She is survived by her son, Tyler Coffin; her parents, Charlie and Polly; sister Lisa (Robert) Vavonese; niece Gabriella and nephew Anthony; aunts and uncles Debbie and Roy, Mary Anne and Jules, Teddy and Kathy, Tom and Glenda, Pat and Bruno, and their families; cousins Marie, Gina, Toni, Lisa, Koury, Jimmy, and Casey, her kids, and Rosie, and many others; and Tyler’s father, Charles, and his family. Leia was predeceased by her grandparents, Calvert and Caroline Bailey and Carlton and Rose York; aunt and uncle Arthur and Antoinette Gallucci, and a cousin, Joanne. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to the funeral service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 16 at the Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. There will be a reception at the church following the interment at Oneonta Plains Cemetery. Please consider donations to the GoFundMe page created for Leia Bailey Coffin by her aunt Mary Anne. The funds will benefit Tyler. Or connect directly with her mother, Polly. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.lhpfuneralhome.com, the website
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GERRY HOLZMAN
Gerry Holzman 1933-2023
Brunswick, ME— Gerry Holzman, Master Carver, creator of the Empire State Carousel, author, and teacher, died on December 8, 2023. He liked to say that his entry into the world in the early summer of 1933, as the first son of Solomon and Hazel Holzman, was a statement of optimism during the depths of the Great Depression. Gerry departed this life after a 90-year sojourn while still pondering Carl Sandburg’s mystifying questions: “Where to? What next?” Preceded by his brother, Steven, Gerry is survived by his always loving (and always loved) wife of 66 years, Arlene Davidson Holzman, his three daughters and three sons-in-law: Nancy Holzman (Jim Stegman), Jill Irving (Jeff), and Susan Gatti (Mark). Completing this highly cherished mishpocha are six grandchildren, Gregory Gatti, Jonathan Gatti, Liam Stegman, Devan Stegman, Joshua Irving, and Julie Irving; a younger brother, Larry (Dottie Eckardt); two sisters-in-law, Margie Barrett Holzman and Claire Davidson Siegel; and nieces and nephews. Gerry and Arlene lived for decades and raised their family in Islip, Long Island. After a move to Cambridge, New York, they spent the past six years happily establishing a home and community in Brunswick, Maine. A graduate of Amenia High School, Gerry received his teaching degree from SUNY Albany. As a student at Albany, he made many lifelong friends, and it is where he first heard the words that would become his mantra: Let each become all he was created capable of being. He did. Following his college graduation, he served in the U.S. Army in Ethiopia, Africa. He went on to have two
different careers: 25 years as a public school teacher/administrator on Long Island, where he taught English and Social Studies, followed by more than 40 years as a professional wood carver/sculptor. Trained in the UK by English Master Carver Gino Masero, Gerry’s diverse work can be found in museums, public libraries, churches and synagogues, educational institutions, commercial establishments, and private collections. But by far, his single most significant work is the Empire State Carousel, a full-size operating merry-goround based entirely on the theme of New York State. Aptly described by Arlene Holzman as a museum you can ride on, this revolving history lesson is Gerry’s original design, made possible with the generous and enthusiastic contributions of more than 1,000 artists and volunteers. Gerry believed the process of establishing this creative interactive community was as important as the creation of the carousel itself. The carousel lives in merry motion at The Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown, New York, celebrating Gerry’s lifelong love for New York State. He loved his visits to Cooperstown, where he and Arlene spent many happy hours and made close friends. His periodic appearances and presentations at the carousel over the years were joyous and memorable, filled with the music and laughter that characterizes everyone’s visit to this unique work of art. Gerry was a prolific author. He wrote dozens of articles for a variety of publications and three books about the art and culture of woodcarving, focusing on his gratitude for finding a profession that allowed him to bring joy and beauty into a world that is too often sad. His most recent publication at the age of 89 is a memoir, “Wanderings of a Wayward Woodcarver.” He aspired to live a Jewish life by studying Jewish history and memorializing Jewish culture in his carvings. He endeavored to follow Rabbi Hillel’s simple admonition: “What is hateful to you, do not do to others.” He will be deeply missed. A memorial service may be held at a later date. Donations in Gerry’s memory can be made to CHANS Hospice, 45 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick, ME 04011, (https://
leWiS, HurleY & pietrobono
www.mainehealth.org/ mainehealth-care-home/ ways-give) or your local hospice, food bank, or arts organization.
Jacqueline T. Lough 1944-2023
M I L F O R D — Jacqueline Taylor Lough, 78, of Milford, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 6, 2023. Jackie was born in Utica, New York on December 12, 1944, the youngest daughter to Jack and Juno Purvis. Along with her family, she moved to Cooperstown, New York when she was very young and remained a resident of the Cooperstown/Milford area her entire life. Jackie was a woman who loved her family immensely. She was an excellent cook and could make soup out of a stone. She thoroughly enjoyed entertaining at her home during the holidays. She was a very generous woman who will be missed greatly. Jackie loved animals, especially her cats. She was affectionately called “Grandma Kitty” by her grandchildren. Jackie is survived by her three loving children, Kenny Hotaling Jr. (Billie Jo), Sharon Chase (Michael), and James Hotaling (Dara); seven grandchildren of whom she was very proud, Ken Hotaling III, Mitchell Hotaling, Jarrett Hotaling, Luke Folts, Quincey Chase, Ellie Hotaling, and Sophia Hotaling; and five great-grandchildren. Also surviving Jackie is her sister, Mary Kathryn Barrett (Bill), and many nieces and nephews. A private celebration of life gathering for Jackie will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jackie’s name may be directed to the Susquehanna SPCA in Cooperstown.
Ann M. Martindale 1966-2023
ONEONTA—Ann M. Martindale, 57, passed away after a prolonged battle with Multiple Sclerosis on December 11, 2023 at Cooperstown Center. She was born May 1, 1966 in Oneonta, the daughter of John P. and Mary Ann (Cook) Mazarak. Ann graduated from Oneonta High School and SUNY Oneonta. She obtained a master’s
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ANN M. MARTINDALE
degree in childhood education. She married Richard Martindale in 1992. Ann enjoyed dancing, cheerleading, and horseback riding; and after MS, she found joy in painting, photography, and gardening. She especially loved flowers and cats, never having less than a pair of cats at a time. Despite Ann’s hardships, she will always be remembered for her bright and positive lookout. Her optimism was contagious. She will be dearly missed by both her family and her many friends. Her long-lasting friendships were deeply cherished. She is survived by her husband, Richard Martindale; her children, Collin Martindale (Sarah Cox) and Emily Martindale (Erik Hartshorn); grandson Mason; brother Eric Mazarak (Lisa Smith); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, December 29 at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz Street, Oneonta. Please consider donations to a local humane society or SPCA or the National MS Society, www.nationalmssociety. org Expressions of sympathy can be sent to www. lhpfuneralhome.com
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DOUGLAS C. PLUMMER
Douglas C. Plummer 1960-2023
SHARON SPRINGS— Douglas Cameron Plummer, a resident of Sharon Springs, New York since 1992 and previously of Manhattan since 1983, died on Thursday, December 14, 2023 in the comfort of his home. He was 63. Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on September 3, 1960, he was the son of Lawrence L. Plummer, who survives, and the late Elizabeth (Jones) Plummer. Doug grew up in Fairview Village, Pennsylvania, and graduated president of his class in 1978 from Methacton High School. Subsequently, in 1982, Doug earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in theater from New England College in Henniker, New Hampshire. While enrolled at the college, he spent a year studying abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he kindled his interest in his Scottish roots, a connection that lasted a lifetime. After New England College, Doug moved to Manhattan to pursue a career in theater. During this time, he met the love of his life, Garth Roberts. Eventually, Doug would move to Sharon Springs in 1992 and open a café in the village with Continued on page 12
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THURSday, December 21, 2023
A-12 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Plummer
Continued from page 11 Garth. The Rockville Café (1993-2001) provided the foundation for their next business, a restoration of the abandoned 149-yearold American Hotel. The nine-room boutique style hotel and restaurant opened in 2001 and was an instant success. The hotel won three prestigious awards including the Excellence in Historic Preservation (Preservation League of NYS), the NYS Historic Preservation Award (Commissioner’s Private Sector Achievement Award), and the 2002 Historic Preservation Award for Rehabilitation (National Trust for Historic Preservation). The American Hotel also hosted Rachael Ray’s “40 Dollars a Day” and stimulated other development in the village. The café, and later the hotel, became the heartbeat of Sharon Springs. Ever the consummate host, Doug welcomed many people to Sharon Springs. Working the front of the house, he could turn strangers into fast friends with his storytelling, wit and robust enthusiasm. He loved his community and was dedicated to serving, volunteering, and cultivating local projects. He served on the Sharon Springs Village Board as trustee for eight years and then as mayor from 2013 until his death. As mayor, Doug spearheaded the effort to identify and pursue funding sources to upgrade and modernize village infrastructure. As a mayor and officiant, Doug united people in marriage. Locally, he was active in the Sharon Springs Chamber of Commerce, the Sharon Historical Society, SEEC Advisory Board, and was a founding member of the former Sharon Springs Citizens Council of the Arts. He and Garth Roberts were part of the purchase of the neglected and underutilized Klinkhart Hall and facilitated the creation of the non-profit Klinkhart Hall Arts Center Inc., now on the cusp of a multimillion-dollar restoration. Survivors include his husband, Garth Roberts; his father, Lawrence Plummer; his step-mother, Prudence Churchill; his mother-in-law, Caroline Roberts; a sister, Melissa (Todd) Plummer-Trice; a brother, Lawrence (Karen) L. Plummer Jr.; a brotherin-law, John Roberts; a sister-in-law, Kate Roberts; seven nieces, Skyler Coelho, Elizabeth Swank, Maxine Young, Abigail Plummer; Jessica Roberts, Mary (Wayne) Jennings, and Carrie Roberts; seven nephews, James Trice, Rex Trice, Colin (Crissy) Roberts, David (Danielle) Roberts, Dylan Roberts, Zachary Bittner, and Joshua (Stephanie) Bittner; and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth,
in 1981; and a brother, Thomas, in 1974. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2024. Memorial contributions may be made to the Klinkhart Hall Arts Center Inc., PO Box 101, Sharon Springs, NY 13459. Arrangements are by Lappeus Funeral Home, Sharon Springs.
Nurses
Continued from page 1 working conditions and safety of remaining staff, they said. According to a NYSNA release on behalf of the group, the nurses called for a comprehensive plan to recruit and retain new staff, as well as a fair contract that addresses working conditions and provides adequate wages. “I care deeply about our community and it’s disheartening to see the challenges we face in providing the level of care our patients deserve,” said Diane Earl, RN, CEN. Earl has worked at Fox for more than a quarter-century and owns a home in the area. She has established her life and career in Oneonta and is deeply concerned about the effects of shortstaffing on the community as well as on her own working life. “We’re hemorrhaging staff and the ER is strained,” she continued. “There are patients in beds with unanswered calls, a lack of resources… I care about this community and taking care of people; that’s why I became a nurse. When I go home feeling frustrated and upset because I can’t provide the level of care patients deserve, that’s a horrible day.” NYSNA representatives have been negotiating a new labor contract for Fox with Bassett Healthcare Network personnel since October. One NYSNA official noted that the parties’ negotiating positions remain far apart and that a great deal of extra work will be necessary before the matter is resolved. In a release, the union said that the hospital has pushed nurses to work longer hours and forgo paid time off to compensate for the vacancies, and that many spaces have also been filled with temporary travel nurses, a practice which is often expensive. “On a daily basis, the existing staff face a demanding workload not only from understaffing, which limits their time to provide quality patient care, but also from the time required to train new temp nurses as they cycle through the hospital,” the release continued. Rural healthcare systems around the U.S. are suffering under a political economy in which providing coverage to low-density areas is
not prioritized because it simply isn’t profitable. According to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform’s Saving Rural Hospitals website, more than 100 rural hospitals have closed in this country in the past decade alone. Another 600, representing more than 30 percent of the remaining total, are at risk of closing in the near future. They lose money delivering services to patients. The COVID-19 pandemic strained much of the industry to the breaking point; increasing workplace safety risks from infectious disease and a new epidemic of patient violence against healthcare workers—on top of a 63 percent increase in violent attacks on medical professionals from 2011 to 2018—have contributed to a mass exodus from nursing as a profession. As cost of living increases for all workers, many nurses look at the declining livelihood their increasingly aggravating and dangerous career provides and conclude it just isn’t worth it. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing found that 100,000 RNs left the profession during the COVID-19 pandemic and estimated that nearly 800,000 more intend to follow them out the door by 2027. Despite this decline in the supply of nursing labor, wages and benefits have generally not risen to incentivize entry to the profession or even to keep up with inflation. The exodus from nursing leaves more and more work for those who remain, making it more likely that even more healthcare providers will burn out of the field. Without some serious changes in the way the American political economy funds and prioritizes healthcare, the industry will remain in a downward spiral that will leave more and more people, especially in rural areas, without access to care, even if they have insurance. Bassett Healthcare Network, which operates A.O. Fox, is not immune to the shortages plaguing the entire industry. “Like hospitals and health systems around the country, [Bassett and Fox are] facing unprecedented shortages of healthcare staff,” said Bassett Director of Public Relations Gabrielle Argo in a brief statement on the matter. “We are allocating tremendous resources toward recruiting and retaining nurses and other clinical staff to our local area as well as finding innovative ways to best meet the needs of our patients. While it is our preference to hire permanent staff, it is necessary at this time to use temporary and
travel nurses to bolster our staff so that we can continue to provide the care our patients and communities deserve.” “The safety and care of our patients, communities and caregivers is always our highest priority,” Argo said. “We deeply appreciate the extraordinary work our nurses do each day to care for our patients and communities. A.O. Fox Hospital is currently in negotiations with NYSNA related to a collective bargaining agreement with RNs. A.O. Fox Hospital leadership is committed to continuing negotiations in good faith with NYSNA representatives to reach a mutually agreed-upon contract agreement.” Many of the gathered nurses directly addressed the ongoing negotiations at the rally. “I’m here to speak out for a fair contract that will allow us to recruit and retain enough qualified and dedicated nurses for our community,” said Mackenzie Ranc, RN, a medical surgical inpatient nurse who has worked at Fox since 2014. “The majority of the inpatient unit is comprised of travel nurses with only two full-time day shift nurses, including myself, along with three fulltime night shift nurses. Regrettably, everyone else has either resigned or transitioned to per diem, leaving us with a staff of mostly travel nurses.” “Existing staff are frustrated and burned out,” she continued. “There has been little effort to retain the few nurses that have remained. The workload is demanding; I’ll often have to cover six patients plus working as the charge nurse, which equates to just 10 minutes per hour per patient, which is just not enough to provide proper and safe care.” Ranc indicated that a one-to-four ratio with a charge nurse who is out of assignment is generally considered a more standard and safe staffing level. Bassett representatives said they are deeply concerned with the staffing issues and that they are taking steps to rectify the problems. “Recruitment and retention is one of our top institutional priorities, as it is for many hospitals right now,” Argo said in a phone call on Tuesday, December 19. “We’ve been trying to think of traditional and outside-the-box methods to recruit new talent. In addition to significant sign-on bonuses, we’re working to establish unique programs like Bassett Career Advancement and Retention Experience for Students, which will encourage nursing students to stay in the area.” Bassett CARES is a
workforce development partnership with SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College that officially started in October. Annually, up to 50 recent graduates who receive a bachelor’s degree or greater at either school and who accept any role at Bassett Healthcare Network can receive up to $25,000.00 in loan repayment stipends. They receive $5,000.00 every six months. All Bassett positions, including healthcare, maintenance, clerical, and administration workers, are eligible. Additionally, Bassett’s website offers signing bonuses up to $35,000.00 for RNs, $20,000.00 for LPNs, and other fivedigit bonuses for a variety of additional staff. “We want to draw caregivers who want to stay in the area, who want to work and build a life and career here,” Argo said. “In the short term, we’ve had to necessarily supplement permanent staff with temporary ones to maintain high-quality care for our patients.” Still, in the short term, nurses have not seen changes on the ground. “Our concern is that the hospital is not doing enough to recruit people and to retain the staff they have,” another nurse told “The Freeman’s Journal” and “Hometown Oneonta.” “We’re asking for better working conditions, better wages and better care for the community. Almost all the nurses at night are travelers, who don’t always have the training or experience with the floors they’re on, and they’re never as dedicated to the community or to the hospital. It’s not that we don’t appreciate having them, of course, but we would like to see the administration work harder toward a more permanent staffing solution.” Nurse Earl was especially concerned with patient health and safety. “Things are critical right now,” she continued. “You have to factor in the acuity of the patients. If someone is in highly acute condition, you could wind up with nearly the entire shift taking care of them and only one nurse to look out for the rest of the patients. We have a lack of nursing resources, a lack of auxiliary staff and technicians. We’ve been told that they’re hiring additional staff, but we haven’t seen that on the ground.” In addition to the shortterm expenses of hiring and training temp nurses, NYSNA representatives called attention to some of the hospital’s other financial outlays. “Instead of investing in the local nurses that make the hospital run, Bassett Healthcare Network is spending exorbitant amounts on executive pay,” the NYSNA
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release continued. “In 2021, 11 executives at A.O. Fox received sixfigure salaries, with some experiencing double-digit increases in total compensation from the previous year while the COVID-19 pandemic was raging. The manager of nursing care received an alarming 69 percent increase in total compensation during the same period.” At press time, Bassett personnel did not have detailed information on compensation for executives or temporary nursing staff. However, they noted that Bassett Healthcare Network recruited 323 new permanent RN and LPN staff members to date in 2023, 33 of which are at Fox. This is a marked improvement over 2022, when 133 nurses were recruited across the network, including 18 at Fox. Many arguments can be made about the merits of strong executive compensation to attract top talent from around the world, relative to stronger compensation for the healthcare staff on the ground. In an increasingly cutthroat industry menaced every day by rising costs and falling revenues, rural health systems will need strong leadership if they are to survive and prosper. On the other hand, the nurses feel an extra nurse or two in rotation will have a far greater impact on individual patient outcomes than the beefed-up executive compensation that the same money could buy. Hands-on healthcare providers also, of course, tend to come from a lower socioeconomic background than executives do. They are less likely to move in and out of the local area in search of the next step in their career, and are more likely to establish lasting homes and families here. As Diane Earl’s life demonstrates, Bassett and Fox have the potential to recruit lifelong Otsego County homeowners, taxpayers, local business and culture patrons, parents, grandparents, friends, volunteers, and all-around community members by making it economically possible for nurses to establish permanent livelihoods here. “The patients in our community deserve enough staff to properly care for them,” Earl concluded. “We’ve had to do more and more with less and less for years. I’m calling on A.O. Fox to devote the resources and staff to properly care for them.”
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THURSDAY, December 21, 2023
Logo
Continued from page 1 further consultation with the Oneida lndian Nation and others to make a final determination in compliance with the regulations.” Superintendent Spross has also shared a tentative timeline with the Board of Education for complying with the mandate, including removal of the logo on school facilities, signage, the website, and letterhead and other public relations materials, finalization of a new logo and possibly a new name (“Hawkeyes” may or may not stand), and ordering of new uniforms and new printed pieces. The November 17, 2022 memorandum from NSDED can be found at https://www.nysed. gov/sites/default/files/ programs/main/indigenous-native-americanmascot-memo.pdf As of press time, Superintendent Spross had not responded to e-mails or phone calls seeking additional information and clarification. Caspar Ewig and Darla M. Youngs contributed to this article.
Student
Continued from page 1 own agenda, meeting once a week to decide on service projects…his peers work very hard to ensure that they’re working to help all around the community.” The AOK Club is planning upcoming food and clothing drives,
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-13
and often assists with bulletin boards around the school building. Winston often helps with announcements. “It’s just nice to see people happy,” he concluded.
The
‘TODAY’ Show To Film Locally Friday COOPERSTOWN—Village of Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh announced on Tuesday, December 19 that she received further information on the upcoming “TODAY” Show filming in Cooperstown. Local filming will be done by WKTV and hosted by WKTV
Anchor Kristen Copeland. Crowd arrival begins at 6:45 a.m. on Friday, December 22 and runs until 7:30 at the latest. There will be potential teaser shots taken at 7:30, 7:40, 7:55 and 8:10. The main broadcast will be live from 8:20 to 8:25.
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THURSday, December 21, 2023
A-14 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
►Fri., Dec. 22 RAFFLE—All day. “Christmas Stocking Raffle.” Enter to win a stocking full of holiday presents. Presented by the Crochet Club. Tickets, $1 each or 6 for $5. Proceeds benefit the library. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ WorcesterSchenevus HANDCRAFT— 9:30 a.m. to noon. “The Leaf and Loom: Knitting and Handcrafts Group.” Bring knit, crochet, macramé or other handicrafts to work with the group. Beginners welcome to learn. Held every Friday. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661 or visit https://www.facebook. com/harrislibrary BLOOD DRIVE— 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. RedCrossBlood.org BASKETBALL— 10:30 a.m. “First Annual Fighting Tiger Boy’s Basketball Holiday Showcase.” Featuring varsity and junior varsity teams from Oneonta High School and others. Admission, $5/adult. Concessions available. Iorio Gymnasium, SUNY Cobleskill, 106 Suffolk Circle, Cobleskill. (518) 255-5114. SENIOR MEALS— 11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal each Monday through Friday. Suggested donation is $3.50 for seniors, $10 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of pulled pork on a bun, baked beans, broccoli and pears. Nader Towers Housing, 2 Mitchell Street, Oneonta. (607) 547-6454 or visit https:// www.otsegocounty.com/ departments/office_for_
the_aging/index.php BLOOD DRIVE— Noon to 5 p.m. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. RedCrossBlood. org VISIT SANTA— 3-5 p.m. Santa’s Cottage, Pioneer Park, Cooperstown. CRAFT FRIDAY— 3:30 p.m. “Tiny Christmas Painting.” Registration required. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ WorcesterSchenevus HOMETOWN FILM— 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Premier of “Bear,” the director’s cut. Filmmakers and the cast will be on hand to share personal insights on this local film. Tickets, $15. Also held 12/23. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 376-4300 or visit https://bearthemovie.info/ HOLIDAY LIGHTS— 5 p.m. “2023 Oneonta Festival of Lights.” 40+ light displays from local organizations and businesses. Display continues through 1/1/24. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 435-1025 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ OneontaFestivalOfLights GLIMMER NIGHTS— 5-8 p.m. “Holiday Light Show Extravaganza.” Walk through a wonderland of holiday light displays in the country village and other areas. Tickets, $15/adult. Thursdays through Sundays, through 12/30. The Farmers’ Museum, 5775 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1450 or visit https:// www.farmersmuseum. org/ SANTA VISIT—5-7 p.m. Also available 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on 12/23. Muller Plaza, Oneonta. Visit https://www.facebook.
what’s haPPENIN’ in OtsegO COunty _________
com/DestinationOneonta/ Methodist Church, 66 HOLIDAY—6-8 p.m. Chestnut Street, Oneonta. what’s haPPENIN’ “Holiday of Lights.” (607) 431-8025 or visit in OtsegO COunty Explore Santa’s village. https://friendsofchristVisit the bakery, candy mas.org/flyer shop, general store and VISIT SANTA— write a letter to Santa at 2-4 p.m. Santa’s Cotthe Post Office. All set tage, Pioneer Park, to fun Christmas music. Cooperstown. $10/carload. Continues HOLIDAY—6-8 p.m. 12/23. Otsego County “Holiday of Lights.” Fairgrounds, 66 Lake Explore Santa’s village. Street, Morris. (607) Visit the bakery, candy 263-5289 or visit https:// shop, general store and www.facebook.com/otsewrite a letter to Santa gocountyfair at the post office. All set to fun Christmas music. ►Sat., Dec. 23 $10/carload. Otsego County Fairgrounds, 66 FARMERS’ MARLake Street, Morris. (607) KET—9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 263-5289 or visit https:// Fresh vegetables, local www.facebook.com/otsemeats and handmade gocountyfair crafts at the Cooperstown OPEN MIC— Farmers’ Market, 101 7-9 p.m. “Coffee House.” Main Street, Pioneer Singers, writers, musiAlley, Cooperstown. cians and more are in(607) 547-8881 or visit vited to share works. Light https://www.otsego2000. refreshments available. org/cooperstown-farmers- Free, open to the public. market Held each 4th Saturday. ONEONTA FARMSchuyler Lake United ERS’ MARKET—9 a.m. Methodist Church, 128 to noon. Produce, arts, Church Street, Schuyler crafts and more from Lake. (315) 858-2523. area producers. Atrium, Foothills Performing Arts ►MON., Dec. 25 and Civic Center, 24 MarMerry christmas! ket Street, Oneonta. Visit https://oneontafarmersmarket.org/ ►Tues., Dec. 26 SANTA—11 a.m. to COMMUNITY CONVER3 p.m. Southside Mall, SATIONS—8-9 a.m. Net5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 432-4401 working group discusses Oneonta’s past, present or visit https://www.facebook.com/southsidemall/ and future. No agenda, just informal, nonpartisan COMMUNITY DINconversation. All welNER—12:30-2:30 p.m. come. Held each Tuesday “36th Annual Friends at Green Earth Health of Christmas CommuMarket, 4 Market Street, nity Dinner: A Holiday Oneonta. Tradition of Hope and YOUTH—9:30 a.m. Togetherness.” Registra“Baby & Toddler Story tion appreciated. Sign up Time.” Suggested ages to reserve a spot at the 0-2. Huntington Memotable, for a pick-up, or a rial Library, 62 Chestnut delivery meal. Serving Street, Oneonta. (607) up to 20 miles around 432-1980 or visit https:// Oneonta, including Stamhmloneonta.org/youthford. Free. First United
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AllOTSEGO.
programs/ FLY CREEK QUILTERS—10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fly Creek Area Quilters meet to cut, sew, tie, bind, and have a good time working on quilts. Fly Creek Methodist Church, County Route 26, Fly Creek. WINTER CRAFT— 10 a.m. “3D Snowflakes.” Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661 or visit https://www.facebook. com/harrislibrary/ BLOOD DRIVE— 1-6 p.m. Quality Inn, 5206 State Highway 23, Oneonta. RedCrossBlood. org
►Wed., Dec. 27 YOUTH—9:30 a.m. “Preschool Story Time.” Suggested ages 3-5. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980 or visit https://hmloneonta.org/youth-programs/ BLOOD DRIVE— Noon-6 p.m. Elm Park Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. RedCrossBlood.org WINTER CRAFT— 3 p.m. “Teen and Tween Mason Jar Snow Globe Craft.” Free, all supplies included. Arkell Museum and Canajoharie Library, 2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie. (518) 673-2314 ext. 106 or visit http:// www.arkellmuseum.org/ events-calendar CROCHET CIRCLE— 3:30 p.m. Bring a crochet project and work with friends, learn to crochet, more. Held each Wednesday. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ WorcesterSchenevus HOLIDAY LIGHTS— 5 p.m. “2023 Oneonta Festival of Lights.” 40+ light displays from local organizations and businesses. Display continues through 1/1/24. Neahwa
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Park, Oneonta. (607) 435-1025 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/ OneontaFestivalOfLights FAMILY SUPPORT— 6 p.m. Families and friends of people with mental illness are invited to join this supportive group by NAMI of Delaware & Otsego Counties. United Ministry Church, 1 Church Street, Delhi. Held on the 4th Wednesday of each month. (607) 3264797.
►Thurs., Dec. 28 YOUTH—9:30 a.m. “Early Literacy Story Time.” Suggested ages 0-5. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980 or visit https:// hmloneonta.org/youthprograms/ OPEN TAI CHI— 10:30-11:15 a.m. Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com BLOOD DRIVE— Noon to 4 p.m. Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, Cooperstown. RedCrossBlood.org WINTER CRAFT— 1 p.m. “New Year’s Eve Noise Makers and Paper Fortune Cookies.” Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661 or visit https:// www.facebook.com/harrislibrary/ GAME NIGHT— 6-9 p.m. Free board game night, all ages welcomes. Serenity Hobbies, 152 Main Street, Oneonta. TOASTMASTERS— 6-7:30 p.m. Oneonta Toastmasters Holiday Party. Attend in person or online. Includes holiday public speaking game. Held at The Green Earth, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit https://www.facebook.com/OneontaToastmasters
►Sun., Dec. 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE FROSTBITE 5K— Noon. End the year right with a fun run through the wintry city of Oneonta. Registration required. Presented by the Oneonta YMCA. Starts near the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit https://oneontafamilyymcafrostbite5k. itsyourrace.com//event. aspx?id=9985 CELEBRATION— 5-8:30 p.m. “New Year’s Eve First Night Celebration.” Ring in the New Year with pizza, ice cream, performances by local music groups, children’s activities, the Hill City Ice Queen, and much more. Free, open to all. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 435-1025 or visit https://www.facebook. com/OneontaFestivalOfLights
►Visit allotsego.com/ otsego-county-eventscalendar/ for the full calendar, including holiday worship schedules
Best wishes for a happy holiday!
Lizabeth Rose, Cricket Keto & Peter D. Clark
99 Main Street, Oneonta 607.441.7312 www.oneontarealty.com
Wishing Everyone a Very Happy Holiday 166 Main Street, Ste 1, Oneonta office 607.433.2873 Season! www.oneontarealty.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA B-1
THURSday, DECEMBER 21, 2023
B-2 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Cooperstown Fire Department Holds Annual Children’s Party By WRILEY NELSON COOPERSTOWN he Cooperstown Fire Department hosted its annual Children’s Holiday Party in Pioneer Park on Saturday, December 16. The day was sunny and warm, and Main Street was packed with visitors and holiday shoppers. Dozens of local families congregated in the park to meet Santa and a variety of Paw Patrol and other public-safety related children’s characters, for games and activities, and to enjoy socializing on a beautiful winter day. The party is a long-standing tradition and a major yearly event
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for the fire department. “The last couple years with COVID and everything, we’ve done it outside instead of at the fire station,” said Cooperstown Fire Department Emergency Squad Captain Mike Simons. “We’ve found this works out a lot better; we can coordinate it with when Santa is in town and have activities and games while they’re waiting in line to see Santa.” “It’s a nice way to get out in the community with the fire trucks and ambulance and have kids interact with us in a positive, non-threatening situation,” Simons continued. Many fire department personnel and their fami-
lies and friends attended to help out with the event. Children enjoyed face painting, cornhole and interactions with popular TV characters as they waited to enter Santa’s cottage. “This tradition has been going on for close to a hundred years,” Simons concluded. “They used to do it in Smalley’s Theater, then in the fire station. It’s nice to get outside for people to see us and for us to see them. Some of our members bake cookies; we hand out stickers and cookies and try to make it a positive experience for everyone.” For more information, visit https://start.cooperstownfd.org/home-1.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023
THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA B-3
Stagecoach Coffee Permit Applications Withdrawn from City ONEONTA s per a letter to City of Oneonta Deputy Community Development Director and Code Enforcement Officer Stephen Yerly dated December 15, Stagecoach Coffee owners Matt and Chris Grady have officially withdrawn their Site Plan/Special-Use Permit Application to open a neighborhood market at 31 Walnut Street in the City of Oneonta. “Over the past several months Matt and I have given a lot of thought and consideration to our permit application...We are proud of our business and feel as though it would serve to enhance any community. We
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envisioned a friendly, family-oriented, retail establishment to serve as a social meeting place for people of all ages to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, fresh food and beverages as well as various specialty market items,” the letter reads. The letter continues: “It is clear that many immediate neighbors have come out very vocally opposed to the specific location of this proposed project. “Although we feel we are within the legal framework of the R-2 zone and were ready to work closely with the neighbors and city officials to mitigate any potential negative effects of our proposed project, we have decided to withdraw our permit applications
out of respect for our neighbors as well as the many Walnut Street Historic District residents. “We are thankful for the professionalism demonstrated by the members of The Oneonta Historic Preservation Commission as well as The Oneonta Planning Commission and the various city codes officials. “We are also very grateful for 30 years of continued support from our wonderful staff and customers; and to the many people who took the time to write letters and make phone calls of encouragement for our business vision.”
SeaSon’S GreetinGS Seasons Greetings from
We wish you all the very best for a healthy, happy and prosperous 2024!
May your holidays be filled with good news and joy! OOP
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Here’s wishing you have all the happiness your holiday can hold!
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Best wishes for a Happy Holiday!
The staff of The Freeman’s Journal and Hometown Oneonta, www.AllOTSEGO.com From left: News Editor Wriley Nelson; General Manager and Senior Editor Darla Youngs; Office Manager Larissa Ryan; Publisher and Advertising Director Tara Barnwell
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THURSday, DECEMBER 21, 2023
B-4 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Bresee’s Christmas Figures Bring Back Many Fond Memories By MONICA CALZOLARI
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Photo by Monica Calzolari
The dining room at St. James’ Retirement Community is beautifully decorated with a Christmas tree surrounded by 15 antique figurines that used to grace the windows of Bresee’s Oneonta Department Store every holiday season for approximately 50 years starting in the 1940s. St. James’ is helping to preserve Oneonta’s history. You can see other photos of this display on the St. James’ Facebook page.
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Christmas department which sold decorations and Christmas cards. Mr. and Mrs. Santa had their own house on the upper floor. Kids sat on Santa’s lap, on Santa’s special chair. Bresee’s had a toy department, too. Brackett said, “Bresee’s was the first store to have an escalator in Oneonta. The kids used to love to ride it.” Fodero passed around an old photo of her brother in a cowboy outfit on a horse. She said, “My brother had a pony and my mom bought him a cowboy hat, chaps, and matching shirt at Bresee’s. He would bring his pony down an elevator into the basement of the department store and kids would get pony rides.” Later, the Bresee family installed a mechanical pony ride at the bottom of the escalator. “It cost 10 cents to ride that pony,” said one of the residents. Clarkson added, “I remember that reindeer who ironed Santa’s clothes was my favorite when I was a little girl.” Today the reindeer is part of the St. James’ Christmas display. Several women residents recalled that Lucy Cohoon was the Bresee’s art director. One said, “Lucy was very creative in decorating the store, not just for Christmas, but for other holidays, too.” Mary Riddell showed the group a “Collier’s”
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crust pie filled with vanilla custard and fresh whipped cream that was a favorite in town.” Clarkson recalled, “They made the best hot fudge sundaes.” Resident Norma Brackett said, “We were a family of six, so we did not eat very often at Bresee’s. It was expensive. We were on a teacher’s salary. My husband moved us here from Kentucky to teach in the math department at SUCO (State University of New York College of Oneonta) from 2003 to 2013.” Two of the residents fondly remember buying their wedding dresses at this upscale department store. Riddell said, “I bought my wedding gown and veil there for $125.00. It had a train and everything. It was so beautiful.” Ingalls bought her wedding dress there, too, in 1952. She used to live within walking distance of Bresee’s. She has lived in this area for 70 years. She said, “It was such a thrill at Christmas time. We went to see Bresee’s window display often as kids, almost every day.” Riddell said, “People came from all over to shop at Bresee’s.” Utica, Albany and Binghamton were known as the rich dairy triangle. Some farmers, rich by rural standards, traveled 40 miles to shop in Oneonta. Bresee’s had a whole
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worked Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day and made two and onehalf times his salary on holidays.” Resident Mary Riddell, now retired, worked at Bresee’s Health Bar. The bar was a popular diner within the elegant department store. It was open for lunch and dinner. Riddell said, “Bresee’s was famous for its roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes, peas and pie. They made delicious, home-cooked food. Mrs. Rich was in charge of making the pies. They made a graham cracker
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display. He made them with mechanical parts that moved.” Resident Jean Lee said, “My children visited me at St. James’ just last week and they all remembered the Christmas window display at Bresee’s when they were growing up.” Fodero shared, “My mom was in charge of the handbag department there. It was considered very prestigious to work at Bresee’s.” Fodero’s father was an electrician for the railroad for 42 years. She said, “They paid good money on the railroads. My dad
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ONEONTA ive residents of St. James’ Retirement C o m m u n i t y, located at 9 St. James’ Place, reminisced about the good old days when Bresee’s Oneonta Department Store was open. Fifteen of Bresee’s antique Christmas carolers and Santa’s helpers, dating back to the 1940s, decorate the dining room at St. James for the holidays. Resident Norma Brackett said, “These Christmas figures bring back such good memories.” Kathy Clarkson, executive director for St. James’, said, “We are so lucky to have 15 of the original pieces from Bresee’s annual window display. Some were donated. Others we bought.” Clarkson remembers shopping at Bresee’s on Thursday nights with her mother before it closed after more than 90 years of operation in Oneonta. St. James’ resident Lucy Ingalls explained, “Payday for the Delaware and Hudson railroads was on Thursdays. So every Thursday evening, Main Street, Oneonta was full of families. They shopped at Bresee’s and even had dinner at the Health Bar.” Resident Nancy Fodero recalled, “My family lived next door to Andy Colby, the man who made the Christmas figurines for the window
magazine dated November 12, 1949. It featured a long story about Bresee’s Oneonta Department Store and the Bresee family. The magazine cost $0.15 back then. According to “Collier’s,” Frank Bresee started out on foot selling shoelaces, pencils and other small items. When he saved enough profit, he bought himself a horse and carriage and expanded his territory. Over time, he bought and operated several retail businesses in Sidney and New Berlin. After his wife encouraged him to settle down in one location, he opened Bresee’s on Main Street in Oneonta and expanded it over time. “Collier’s” estimated that Bresee’s grossed more than $2,000,000.00 per year in revenue. The store sold highquality merchandise including shoes and clothing for men, women, and children, lingerie, candy, cards, appliances, sewing materials, and drapery, and even offered kitchen and bath remodeling. Bresee’s also operated a beauty salon. Fodero worked there for a short time. She eventually opened her own hairdressing business in her home. Marcela Micucci, PhD, executive director of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society, confirmed the dates that the department store operated. She said, “Frank Bresee’s namesake opened in 1899. Close behind was Woolworth’s in 1911 and J.C. Penney in 1923. F. H. Bresee & Sons moved to its permanent location, today’s 155-161 Main Street, in 1905. Bresee’s downsized in 1994 and closed their doors permanently in 2005.” The residents of St. James’ remember when Oneonta had three department stores downtown and many other thriving small businesses. Main Street was bustling. One compared the window displays at Bresee’s with Macy’s windows in New York City. St. James’ Manor is helping to preserve Oneonta’s history. You can see other photos of this display on the St. James’ Facebook page.
founded in 1808
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Volume 215, No. 48
AllOTSEGO.com, OTSEGO COUNTY’S DAILY NEWSPAPER/ONLINE
Cooperstown, New York, Thursday, November 30, 2023
Outgoing OC Rep Gives Advice To Future Candidates
Newsstand Price $1
Bassett Healthcare Security Team Is Now Open Carry
By DARLA M. YOUNGS
By DARLA M. YOUNGS
ONEONTA tsego County Representative Clark Oliver, who had served District 11 (City of Oneonta Wards 1 and 2) since 2020, resigned his seat as of Wednesday, November 8. According to Oliver, he completed his Master of Public Administration at the University at Albany in June and did not run for re-election this cycle because he planned to look for employment out of the area. Although he had intended to serve his final term to completion, Oliver was offered a position with New York State in the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence as a gender violence prevention specialist. In this capacity, Oliver will be
COOPERSTOWN n response to growing trends of violence against healthcare workers nationally, Bassett Healthcare Network’s Security Department has moved from a concealed carry to an open carry model. According to Director of Public Relations Gabrielle Argo, in order to meet campus security needs across the region, Bassett’s security team is continually implementing evidence-based, best-practice policies and safety models to support employees, patients, and visitors in a changing environment. This change is about visibility and deterrence. “Research strongly reveals that perpe-
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Merry and Bright COOPERSTOWN—The annual Cooperstown Lions Christmas Tree Sale is officially underway, featuring freshly harvested balsam fir and spruce trees from Harpursville. The trees are being sold right across
“The Freeman’s Journal” makes a great gift for the holidays and includes unlimiTed access to allOtsego.com! subscribe for you or someone else today: (607) 547-6103. Gift cards available.