In Ninash, Love Lives LAST SEGMENT, NIGHTINGALE & FIREFLY/B1
HOMETOWN ONEONTA !
E RE
F Volume 8, No. 23
City of The Hills
& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch
Oneonta, N.Y., Friday, March 11, 2016
Complimentary
$20 Million Aims To Fix Fox Hospital Finances The Balance Intended For ‘Center Of Excellence’
By LIBBY CUDMORE
J
ust before his retirement last year, Fox Hospital President John Remillard and his board of directors applied for $21.4 mil-
lion in Essential Healthcare Provider funding. And now, just three months into new President Jeff Joyner’s tenure, the hospital has received the money,
which will be used for debt restructuring and a new, for now unspecified, “Center for Excellence.” “Now that Fox knows the application was successful, it can begin
in earnest to develop, with Bassett, plans for how and where best to accomplish strategic growth,” said Joyner. Fox was one of over two dozen hospitals to apply for the funds. Please See FOX, B6
ASSAULT ON CHARTER ENTERS NEW PHASE
Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Former Fox Hospital President John Remillard gets a hug from SUNY Oneonta President Nancy Kleniewski, his former board chair, as he receives the Eugene A. Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award at the Otsego Chamber annual dinner/ MORE PHOTOS, A7
19th District Race Comes To Oneonta
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split in county Democrats brought the party’s two candidates seeking to succeed U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson, R-19, to Oneonta in recent days. Zephyr Teachout, who won Otsego County over Governor Cuomo in the 2014 gubernatorial primary, met with voters at Foothills Sunday, March 6. Will Yandik, the Ulster County farmer and town board member, met potential supporters at Stella Luna Thursday, March 3/PHOTOS, A2
BYE, BYE WINTER: In another sign the bad weather’s almost behind us, Daylight Saving Time arrives at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 12. Turn clocks forward an hour. FOR NANCY: Flags around the county were at half-staff Tuesday, March 8, on the passing of former First Lady Nancy Reagan. CRISIS CENTER: Paul Marshall, director of Christian-based Crisis Net pregnancy centers in Utica, will speak about forming one here at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at Calvary Hill Retreat, 290 Chestnut St. Public welcome.
DAYS OF JUDGMENT Council Committee, Public Get 1st Look At Possible Changes By LIBBY CUDMORE
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Mayor Herzig takes a final tour of Cherry Street homes that will soon be razed. Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA
End To (Some) City Blight In Sight As Abandoned Hulks Come Down, 60 Units Of New Housing To Rise By LIBBY CUDMORE
B
y the end of the week, Oneonta will have six fewer vacant, abandoned houses. “Housing Visions closed on the houses last Friday and started
the work on Monday,” Mayor Gary Herzig said Tuesday, March 8. “I can see them working on the house at Spruce Street from my window.” The six demolitions – plus one rehab – are part of Housing Vision’s “Oneonta Heights” project, which will see 60
units of affordable housing for families and seniors added to the city’s housing stock. At Columbia and West, four derelict buildings will be demolished and replaced by two 4-unit buildings and one 2-unit building. On Spruce, crews began Please See BLIGHT, B7
roposed revisions to the City Charter will make their public debut. On Thursday, March 4 at 4 p.m., John Nader, chair of Mayor IS CHARTER ON Herzig’s ad hoc CHOPPING BLOCK? Charter Review Committee, will present proposed revisions to the Common Council during a special meeting of the Legislative Committee. “This will give the Council an opportunity to ►Attend Comask questions mon Council comand make committee meeting at ments,” said 4 p.m. Thursday, Herzig, who March 10. appointed the ad ►Editorial: hoc committee as Refocus energy on soon as he was saving, not erodappointed mayor ing, charter. last fall. The Legislative Committee is chaired by Council Please See CHARTER, A7
‘County’s Thoreau’ Cooperstown Lawyer Devin Morgan Arrested In Protest Assumes Otsego Now Chairmanship By JIM KEVLIN NEW LISBON
B
ob Eklund, the New Lisbon town board member, has again put his adherence to Thore-
D
evin Morgan of Cooperstown, an intellectual au’s “Civil Disobedience” property attorney with an on the line. Albany firm, is the new Monday, March 7, he was chairman of the Otsego arrested again while object- Now board. ing to plans to store liquefied In the combined posipropane in the salt mines tion, he succeeds both Morgan under Seneca Lake, this time Bob Hanft, chairman of with Bill McKibben, the county IDA, and Joe Bernier, chairman Please See EKLUND, B7 of the related county Capital Resources
Eklund Joins McKibben At Seneca Lake
Corp., who – “to encourage fresh leadership” – did not seek reelection at the annual meeting of both boards Thursday, March 3, in Oneonta. Morgan’s election was unanimous, according to a press release. He has been on the board since 2014. Both Hanft and Bernier will continue serving on the Otsego Now board and, hence, the IDA and CRC boards. Bernier will serve as secretary of both boards. Please See MORGAN, A6
HOMETOWN ONEONTA, OTSEGO COUNTY’S LARGEST CIRCULATION NEWSPAPER 2010 WINNER OF The Otsego County Chamber/KEY BANK SMALL BUSINESS AWARD
A-2 HOMETOWN ONEONTA
HOMETOWN People
with democratic primary april 19, congressional foes come to county
fRIDAY, march 11, 2016
Go Team Go! Fans, Cheer Our CCS Girls At State Tournament
Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Zephyr Teachout, who beat Governor Cuomo in Otsego County in the 2014 gubernatorial primary, is now running to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson, R-19. She was at Foothills Sunday, March 6, listening to concerns of, clockwise from right, Dan Taylor, Oxford, Michael Suchorsky, Andes, Ann Walton, Worcester, Brigid Kennison, Worcester, Kate O’Donnell, Oneonta, Karen Anderson, Oneonta, and Louise Corsover, Franklin.
Will Yandik, right, a farmer and town board member from Livingston County who is challenging Teachout for the 19th District nomination, meets Thursday, March 3, at Stella Luna with Oneonta Democrats, clockwise from lower left, Susan Sklenarik, Steven Fever, Peter Hill, Pat Knuth and Cathryn Jane. He was in Cooperstown the next evening at a reception hosted by Melinda Hardin and Lou Allstadt.
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THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-3
NEXT: HAWKEYES V. PINE PLAINS, 2:45 P.M. SATURDAY, MARCH 12, AT HVCC
Go Team Go! Fans, Cheer Our CCS Girls At State Tournament
B
ack, from left, at the state quarter-finals in Whitesboro Saturday, March 5, are: Coach Mike Niles, Olga Papaux, Sara Fountain, Mya Murdock, Sam Wehner, Maria Noto, Meaghan Perrino, Coach Glen Noto, Julie Ford, Ciarra McGoldreick Front, from left: Lauren Vibbard, Kate Trossett, Emile Perez, Jen Flynn, Liz Millea, Mallory Arthurs, Paige Cring, Maggie Schuermann, Assistant Coach Matt Hazzard, Shannon Mervin Ian Austin/Freeman’s Journal & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
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HOMETOWN Views
A-4 HOMETOWN ONEONTA
FRIDAY, march 11, 2016
EDITORIAL
Let’s Stop Fighting City Charter And Make It Work
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efore the City of Oneonta heads into uncharted territory – the Wild West, if you will – Mayor Herzig and Common Council members need to pause. Three experts – two are the foremost experts – on local governance in New York State have concluded revisions proposed by the mayor’s ad hoc Committee on Charter Revision require approval by referendum, as was the original charter they would supplant. The City Charter gives City Hall legitimacy – it’s the city’s constitution. If the city’s political leaders go outside the laws of New York State in amending the charter, city government will have no legitimacy. • Think about how that might play out. The revisions would shift hiring and firing powers to the mayor and Common Council. But if the revised charter lacks legitimacy, would the mayor and Common Council be hiring and firing without authority? Think of the mess any challenge would bring. State law designates the city manager as the contact with state emergency officials in time of crisis; the changes would make that contact the mayor. But what if something goes wrong in an emergency? Sued, will City Hall – and thus, city taxpayers – be liable? Operating under an illegally adopted charter, can City Hall actually apply for the CFA grants it needs to redevelop the D&H yards or revive South Market Street? If
REFERENDUM REQUIRED, say, from left: ►SUNY New Paltz VP Gerald Benjamin, director of CRREO, (Center for Research, Regional Education & Outreach). ►Bob McEvoy, consultant and professor in local government at SUNY’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Politics, Albany. ►Jerry Faiella, retired executive director, state City Managers Association.
it gets them, can it legally spend the money? Tom DiNapoli must be salivating. If there is no constitution, properly adopted or properly revised, there is no law. • With the ad hoc committee’s revisions at an end, Mayor Herzig plans to air the changes at a meeting of Common Council’s Legislative Committee at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 10. The revisions would then go to a public hearing, then to Common Council for a vote. On Nov. 8, 2011, city residents, 1,128-348, approved the new charter – by 76 percent of ballots cast. According to the mayor’s scenario, five votes on Council can change the city’s constitution, overruling 1,128 citizens. Even if
LETTERS
From Cooperstown, TREPS Has Expanded Into Milford, Laurens To the Editor: On Sunday, Feb. 28, I enjoyed the afternoon with budding entrepreneurs at the Cooperstown Middle/High School gym, with close to 50 middleschool students showcasing their wares at the TREPS marketplace. The event culminated the TREPS program, an afterschool initiative that teaches students to start and run a small business. This program was introduced to the Otsego County Chamber Education Committee four years ago by Carina Franck and Marcy Birch from the Cooperstown Central district, who were
driving forces among other parents to get this program started there. Since, the chamber has purchased the licensing of the program kits to expand this program in the Laurens and Milford school districts, both programs now entering the third year. The Milford’s marketplace will be Saturday, April 9, at the OCCA’s Earth Festival. The goal of the chamber’s Education Committee is to have this program operating in every county school district by 2018, with the help of our generous corporate sponsors of locally based businesses. Please See HEEGAN, A6
HOMETOWN ONEONTA
legal, that can’t be right. If the changes were minimal, that might fly. But the revisions, in effect, shift decision-making – hiring, firing, even setting the semi-weekly agenda – from the city manager back to the mayor, demoting the city manager to the mayor’s errand boy (or girl.) • The experts are particularly concerned that the mayor – heretofore, a mayor could only vote to break a Common Council tie – would actually get a vote in the hiring: That diminishes Council’s powers, and that requires a referendum. HOMETOWN ONEONTA That’s problematic enough, but A proud day – Sept. 7, 2012 – when the first city manager, Mike Long, center, was welcomed by, from left, Mayors the shift is much more profound; Nader, Muller, Miller and Brenner. in effect, the job of city manager is redefined, with the Council, by Park and downtown “streetscape” to stop any and all efforts to unmajority vote, able to change the improvements, due this spring. dermine the City Charter approved qualifications from year to year. Despite his short tenure, the with such pride and hope a mere Anything goes. second city manager, Martin four years ago. Let’s put all that “It’s a setup, … to hire whomMurphy, brought in a consultant energy into making it work. ever they want regardless of who prepared a definitive study on After all, this is no mystery: qualifications – exactly what the basic reforms needed to prepare As local government has become commission wanted to avoid,” said the Oneonta Fire Department for more complex, the city-manager retired SUNY Oneonta poly-sci the future. It’s an eye-popper. (To form of government has become professor Paul Scheele, a member read it, go to www.allotsego.com the most common municipal form of the original Charter Commisand type “Oneonta Fire Departin the U.S., and the fast-growing. sion. He predicted the rebirth of ment” in the search line.) At the time the charter was the “old boy network.” And remember, as is, the elected adopted, City Hall, under Mayor • mayor and Common Council chart Dick Miller, appeared on its way The shame of it is, before the the city’s fate; the city manto becoming a model for New personal supplanted professionalager brings training, experience, York State and beyond, a worthy ism, Oneonta’s city-manager form contacts and vision to implement aspiration that inspired and excited of government had started to work. the will of the people expressed so many of us. Initiatives begun by the first through their elected officials. No Mayor Herzig should pick up city manager, Mike Long, are still dictatorship here. Mayor Miller’s torch and lead bearing fruit: Housing Visions’ • all of us – and that means all of Oneonta Heights, starting this It’s time for Mayor Herzig (who Otsego County, which was hoping week; ambitious Wilber Park updelivered a fine first State of the for a successful example to follow grades, now complete; the Neahwa City speech; there’s plenty to do) – in recapturing that excitement.
MIKE ZAGATA OTHER VOICES
Delay May Let Long-Eared Bats Stall Pipeline Editor’s Note: Mike Zagata, the retired DEC commissioner, resides in West Davenport.
G
overnor Cuomo shows disdain for impoverished residents of both Upstate and downstate New York. He does this by not allowing the DEC to release the water permits needed for the Constitution Pipeline Project. To quote a recent publication from Catholic Charities, “It could be said that to have a successful and sustainable community you need the individuals and families living in your community to be successful and to be able to sustain themselves.” It seems logical this would apply to a state as well. You might wonder how the sitting on the permits affects our lower-income residents. This is how it works. People need jobs and they need lowcost, clean-burning energy to produce electricity, to heat their homes and
& The Otsego-Delaware Dispatch
The return of the long-eared bat may further delay the Constitution Pipeline.
cook their food. By not approving the Constitution Pipeline project, the governor is, at best, delaying the time it will take for that energy to arrive in both Upstate and downstate New York. If he simply allows the time the state is given to grant/approve the permits, a political tactic that would allow him to avoid criticism by project opponents,
RESPONSE: Poverty, Lack Of Jobs Clearly Tied Together
To the Editor: In a recent “Other Voices” article written by Mike Za Jim Kevlin gata, the amount of poverty Editor & Publisher in our area was highlighted as well as the creation of Tara Barnwell Mary Joan Kevlin jobs as a way to combat the Advertising Director Business Manager rising poverty among our Thom Rhodes • Allison Green Kathleen Peters • Christine Scales local communities. At Catholic Charities, our Advertising Consultants Graphics mission is to serve the poor and vulnerable and we see Celeste Brown Thomas Libby Cudmore Ian Austin Copy Editor Reporter Photographer poverty every day and the struggles that our families, Judith Bartow Ivan Potocnik Tom Heitz seniors, children, Veterans, Billing Office Manager & Web Architect Consultant and the disabled are trying to overcome. We see indiMEMBER OF New York Press Association • The Otsego County Chamber viduals and families who are Published weekly by Iron String Press, Inc. holding down one or two 21 Railroad Ave., Cooperstown NY 13326 jobs per household, but are Telephone: (607) 547-6103. Fax: (607) 547-6080. E-mail: info@allotsego.com • www.allotsego.com unable to make ends meet on a low-wage job with no benefits. Indeed, poverty is an issue in Otsego County
the permits will be approved when the time-clock runs down. However, that would be in April and, by that time, any long-eared bats that may live in the trees scheduled to be cut to create the necessary right-of-way corridor may have returned. Determining whether or not the bats have returned, or if they lived there in the first place, can be a complicated process and likely to cause further delay. It is ironic that the Governor has chosen to circumvent SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) and intervene in the process because both Upstate and downstate residents stand to benefit if the pipeline is built. That is not generally the case, as pipelines built to transport natural gas from areas where it is produced to the large cities often pass through rural communities without providing natural gas. (They do provide an increased tax base). Please See BATS, A6
including a 15.5 percent federal poverty rate in the county, which means one in approximately five families is making less than $24,000 per year. One out of 10 individuals living in Otsego County receives the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as food stamps). Nine out of the 14 school districts in Otsego County have 50 percent or more of the children enrolled receiving free or reduced lunches. And in the recent State of the State address, Governor Cuomo highlighted Oneonta as one of the 10 rural cities with the highest poverty rate in New York. This is a list that no city wants to be on. But what the Governor
didn’t mention was all of the ways our community is coming together to help deal with the problems of poverty. It’s no secret that rural poverty presents different challenges from urban poverty, and in our area we have many non-profits, private enterprises, and public programs working together to help come up with positive solutions. This issue can’t be tackled without addressing the root causes of poverty, and without the underlying base of a healthy and vibrant economy to support jobs that pay a living wage. Smart energy policy, proactive economic development, and continued partnerships can ensure that
in the future our city can be one of New York’s success stories. Thanks to our many community partners, Catholic Charities will continue to work hard to address the immediate concerns of those living in poverty while we, as a community, come together to help tackle these important issues. Thank you to Mr. Zagata for pointing out a large and growing concern in our local communities – poverty, along with the lack of jobs and economic development, are very clearly tied together. LYNN GLUECKERT Executive Director, Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie Counties
AllOTSEGO.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR WELCOME • E-MAIL THEM TO info@
HOMETOWN
FRIDAY, March 11, 2016
History
HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-5
Compiled by Tom Heitz with resources courtesy of The New York State Historical Association Library
125 Years Ago
The Local News – The concert given last Thursday evening by the Boston symphony club drew a large audience, many coming down from Cooperstown and other points on the C. & C.V. line on a special train. The club, which consisted of first-class artists, rendered a number of fine classical selections in a satisfactory manner. The soprano solos by Madame Bartelle were also heartily encored. There is a growing feeling among church members in Oneonta against the holding of so-called prohibitory amendment meetings in the churches. The question, so far as it relates to high license or prohibition, is purely a political one and properly should be discussed in the halls, theatres, etc., set apart for secular gatherings. More particularly is it the case, as often happens, that argument in favor of a prohibition party is introduced. The members of the churches, most of them, have pronounced political convictions, which however, they never seek to have exploited in the church. Like courtesy, they feel, is owing to them. The question as now considered should be debated in places appropriate for political discussion. March 1891
60 Years Ago
40 Years Ago
Oneonta schools face drastic cuts in personnel, academic programs and services for 1976-1977, School Superintendent Dr. Frederick Bardsley told more than 50 people at the Greater Plains PTO meeting last night. A reduction of $1,012,048 in next year’s budget will be required because the Oneonta School District can no longer exclude pensions, social security, health insurance and some other items when computing taxes under the constitutional tax limit. Oneonta has been excluding such costs for more than six years under emergency legislation. But an amendment to the state constitution to allow the exclusions to be continued was defeated at the polls last fall. Also, based on the proposed state budget, the district can expect $100,000 less in state aid than had been anticipated this year, Dr. Bardsley reported. Since the school district is already at its constitutional tax limit of 1.50 percent on the five-year average full valuation of taxable real estate, total revenue from taxes cannot be increased substantially without a referendum. March 1976
30 Years Ago
100 Years Ago
The Price of Gasoline – With the price of gasoline advanced within the week and now retailing at 28 cents in this city the subject is becoming one of much interest to both present and prospective users of cars and the one question heard is, “What will be the price in midsummer?” Dealers quite uniformly are at sea and declare that they are unable to learn anything about the future price. The only assurance they can secure is that their needs will be supplied – provided always they are regular patrons of either the Standard or the Tiona companies, the only two companies doing business in this section. The companies are unwilling and have been for some time to give a price for even ten days ahead. The user of 300 or 400 gallons of gas may pay say ten cents more per gallon than he paid during the past five years on the average. Most of them are getting more miles on the gallon, and even if not so, the increased cost will be only $30 or $40 for the season. March 1916
80 Years Ago
Robert Edmond Jones, film director, predicted today that within 20 years a combination of television and three-dimension photography will revolutionize not only entertainment, but commercial operations and scientific study as well. Looking ahead to 1956 he said he foresees: Movie stars performing right in the living rooms of millions of American homes;
Almost one-quarter of Otsego County’s dairy farmers submitted bids Monday to go out of business and have the federal government buy their herds. “We were a little surprised at the number,” said Bill Gibson, executive director of the Otsego County Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service. Bids were submitted by 128 of Otsego County’s 550 to 580 dairy farmers. In Delaware County, 84 of the estimated 500 dairy farmers submitted bids. Farmers will learn by March 28 whether or not the Secretary of Agriculture has accepted the bids to buy the herds and put the farmers out of the dairy business for at least five years. Gibson estimates the government will accept half of the Otsego County bids. Lower bids will have a better chance of acceptance by the government, Gibson said. March 1986
20 Years Ago
March 1956 Department stores featuring the equivalent of “Kinetoscope peep shows” in lieu of mannequins to exhibit new fashions shown thousands of miles away; and physicians sitting in their offices watching major operations being performed in other countries. “It will be done by a combination of television and three-dimensional movies,” Jones said. “And, if it sounds fabulous, I can only say that it will be developed more easily and more quickly than were the airplane and the submarine.” March 1936
Spring Open House
Before you hit the outdoor courses, loosen up and play a few rounds with us!
March 18 · 5:30 to 7:30 pm Come see if OCCS is right for your child’s education. 158 River Street, Oneonta 607-432-0383
174 Roundhouse Road · Oneonta 607.353.7939 · www.roundhouseindoorgolf.com
The games, festivities and a talent show are on for downtown Main Street in Oneonta on Saturday. Previously advertised as downtown’s first Main Street Winterfest, the program has been rescheduled from two weeks ago after rainy weather predominated. Now the event is a “go,” snow or not – and could be subtitled “Pre-Spring, Main Street Fling,” according to Mark Drnek, event coordinator. Main Street downtown will be closed to traffic from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. A charity softball tournament is planned for Neahwa Park and a talent show for local residents is being organized by the Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts. March 1996
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Join us for Easter Sunday as we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. May you find the answers you’ve been looking for!
March 20
Maundy Thursday 7 pm – Holy Communion
March 25
305 Main Street, Oneonta
• Eyewear repairs Clinic Building, Cooperstown Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm (607) 547-3142
Spring
Craft Show FoxCare Center
March 24
St. James Episcopal Church
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Sunday of the Passion 8 am Eucharist 10 am Sung Holy Eucharist Distribution of Palms
7:30 pm – Tenebrae
607-432-1458
Bassett Eyewear Center
Fox Hospital Auxiliary
Holy Wednesday
If you’re not quite sure, we have the answer you’ve been seeking.
• Eye exams
Palm Sunday
March 23
Good Friday Noon – Good Friday Worship
March 27
Easter Sunday 8 am Eucharist 10 am Solemn Festival Eucharist
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1 FoxCare Drive, Oneonta, NY
Saturday, March 21 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, March 22 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Many new vendors and unique gift ideas. Spend the day with us and have lunch at the Cyber Cafe!
THURSDAY-FRIDAY, March 10-11, 2016
A-6 THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Bats May Delay Pipeline BATS/From A4 That is not the case with the Constitution Pipeline project. By partnering with a local company, Leatherstocking Gas Co., Williams will enable several “taps” into the main line that will feed natural gas to several local communities in Northern Pennsylvania and Southern New York. Those lines will provide low-cost, clean-burning energy to businesses, schools, a college, government offices and homes. That means that jobs can be both saved and created and that escalating costs to local communities and businesses can be offset with lower energy costs. What about the potential benefits to downstate residents? Governor Pataki lined the City of New York with 11 gas-fired turbines. He did that for two reasons. First, New York City is in non-attainment with the Clean Air Act and anything that could be done to reduce air emissions was viewed as being a positive.
Second, gas-fired turbines can be quickly brought on-line to produce energy. That means they could be used during periods of peak demand to help reduce the chance of rolling brown-outs or a black-out. At that time, gas was expensive and thus it was not anticipated those 11 turbines could be used to produce energy for the base-load or periods of lower demand. With the growth in the availability of low-cost natural gas, those plants could now be used to meet the base load and thus reduce the fuel bill for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. And guess what – New York City is one of the two major urban areas scheduled to receive gas from the Constitution Pipeline. The governor may not care about our vote (he lost nearly all the Upstate counties), but he does care about the downstate vote. Maybe he should start courting those voters.
TREPS Now In Milford, Laurens HEEGAN/From A4 The program features five workshops where students learn about product development, business finance, marketing and salesmanship, and then test those skills in the marketplace. This year, I visited 50 students’ businesses, ranging from jewelry, to fish tanks, to healthy dog treats and
truffles. This program develops valuable life skills, such as being a business leader and keeping track of money, and gives businesses the opportunity to support our youth and foster a spirit of entrepreneurship. BARBARA ANN HEEGAN President & CEO Otsego County Chamber
EYE ON THE WEATHER for FEBRUARY 2016
What A Difference A Year Can Make Editor’s Note: David Mattice, National Weather Service observer in the Oneonta area for the past 30 years, provides monthly and annual summaries of local weather as a public service.
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ast February was the coldest February on record, when our mean temperature was 13.3 degrees below normal. February 2016 was 4.0 degrees above normal. Just in case you are wondering, our weather data for the greater Oneonta/Cooperstown area dates back to 1854. This possibly record-setting warm, low-snow, “whacko” – and even some have said eerie – winter keeps rolling along. Nothing about it has been anywhere near normal since it commenced in November. Looking ahead to midMarch, it looks to be mild and mostly snow free, unless there is a huge movement in the jet stream. I’ll bet on the NWS forecasters this time – and often times, I don’t. I know some of you are loving this weather, while others are despising it. We had 3.61 inches of precipitation last month, which is 1.06 inches more than the norm, but we only saw 5.2 inches of snow. By the way, that’s a record low amount for February! We also had two pretty rugged thunderstorms to boot! Normal snowfall for the winter through February is 58.5 inches and we’ve had to work hard to get 17.1 inches. The most snow in a day so far this winter is 3.8 inches back in mid January, and
that came our way on northwesterly winds that howled across Lake Ontario, more commonly known as lake effect. OMG, good golly, or whatever phrase suits your fancy, have you noticed that we haven’t had one snowstorm all winter, not even a small one! All of the frozen precipitation has come our way by lake effect or from little ripples of instability in the upper atmosphere. Even if you despise the snow, please understand that it does serve a very important purpose and we need a good ol’ Nor’easter to swing through the area. Heck, I’ll even be happy with an Alberta clipper system that produces 6 inches or so at one time. Seven days in our shortest month of the year saw temperatures that reached into the 50s. It was great to see that Jamie and Brenda Waters – along with all of the jumpers, volunteers and sponsors – had a record-setting Polar Bear Jump. What an amazing event! Even though there is not a lot of cold and snow in the forecast, don’t let your guard down. As we approach springtime, weather systems pick up speed and that makes long range forecasting more difficult. An interesting factoid, the five worst blizzards this
DAVID MATTICE
Cooperstown’s Devin Morgan To Chair Otsego Now MORGAN/From A1 Morgan is associated with Hoffman Warnick, an Albany intellectual-property firm. He is also a blogger (eatdrinklaw.com), a cofounder of LocalMotive Workshop, a local group encouraging sustainable entrepreneurship, and runs Three Blazes Innovation, Inc., a professional services
firm that helps create and grow innovative businesses. He, wife Daphne and their children live in Cooperstown. He is sonin-law of Cooperstown merchant Will Monie, who operated Willis Monie Books. In the press release, issued Tuesday, March 8, Morgan expressed support
for Otsego Now President Sandy Mathes and his team. Hanft, a retired JP Morgan vice president and former chair of the Hartwick College trustees, succeeded Sharon Oberriter two years ago. Since, he said, he has become affiliated with Strategic Financial Services, Utica, and has been unable to attend as many meetings
as he would like. Bernier, who was City of Oneonta community development director for 34 years, has been on the IDA board since 1968, and chaired it for 20 years. He chaired the CRC board since it formed in 2008.
FEBRUARY 2016 Highest Temperature...............................................57°F (Feb. 20) Lowest Temperature...............................................-23°F (Feb. 14) Average Maximum Temperature........................................37.1°F Average Minimum Temperature...........................................16.3°F Monthly Mean Temperature.................................................26.7°F Precipitation Total...................................................................3.61″ Most Precipitation in One Day................................1.42” (Feb. 25) Thunderstorms........................... ..............................2 (2 for 2016) Snow.........................................................................................5.2” 16 inches for 2016; 17.1 for winter 2015-16 Most Snow in One Day.........................................1.3” (Feb. 9, 15) Year-to-Date Precipitation........................................................5.54” Number of Days at or below zero F................................2 for 2016 5 for winter of 2015-16 Number of Days at or below 32°F.......................23 (52 for 2016) area has experienced all occurred in March. The sun is now much higher in the sky, the days are growing longer, so get outside and do something fun. If you need some tips on how to spend your time, please visit AllOt-
sego.com for all sorts of neat activities. Until we meet again next month, be safe, stay healthy, have fun and as always...Keep Your Eye on the Weather!
John Mitchell Real Estate
216 Main Street, Cooperstown • 607-547-8551 • 607-547-1029 (fax) www.johnmitchellrealestate.com • info@johnmitchellrealestate.com
MLS#98956 Cherry Valley $164,900 Built in 2007, this lovely home affords space and privacy with room to grow! 2 BRs, 1½ baths, 10+/- green acres. Open porches on front and rear to take in views of the mountains. 2-car garage, ½ bath/utility room, workshop all on lower level. This area can be finished as living space, it is insulated and ready to go! Also detached shed w/lean-to. Don’t miss this opportunity! Additional land available. Dave LaDuke, Broker 607-435-2405
Laura Coleman 607-437-4881
Mike Winslow, Broker 607-435-0183
Madeline K. Woerner 607-434-3697
AllOTSEGO.homes Limitless Possibilities!
Once a working dairy farm on 96.38 acres. Land on both sides of the road; field is leased to a local farmer. The dwelling, surrounded by maples and towering pines, has 4 BRs, 1½ baths, many original details. Large 2-story barn, corn crib, detached garage. With some TLC, house could once again be a charming country home. The topography of the property is varied: tillable fields, woods, some open w/rolling meadows and fields, some pasture. A great property for the outdoorsman or farmer—raise beef or horses, make hay, grow vegetables. The property is also home to abundant wildlife. Many possibilities exist on this property, some commercial. Great visibility on the Route 28 corridor between Cooperstown and Oneonta.
Don Olin
REALTY, INC
Exclusively offered
37 Chestnut street · Cooperstown · 607-547-5622 · 607-547-5653 (fax) parking is never a problem! For Appointment Only Call: M. Margaret Savoie, Real Estate Broker/Owner – 547-5334 Marion King, Real Estate Associate Broker – 547-5332 Eric Hill, Real Estate Associate Broker – 547-5557 Donald DuBois, Real Estate Associate Broker – 547-5105
Timothy Donahue, Real Estate Associate Broker – 293-8874 Madeline Sansevere, Real Estate Salesperson – 435-4311 Catherine Raddatz, Real Estate Salesperson – 547-8958 Michael Welch, Real Estate Salesperson – 547-8502
For reliable, honest answers to any of your real estate questions, call 607.547.5622 or visit our website www.donolinrealty.com
®
REALTORS : Defending the Rights of Home Owners Since 1908. The National Association of REALTORS ® takes great pride in protecting the American Dream of home ownership. We feel that home ownership is under attack and being threatened for the first time in generations. Please join our efforts in making sure that elected officials and governmental bodies are aware of housing issues and how they affect all Americans. Our goal is to make every home owner and future home owner aware of the issues that currently surround home ownership. Help us defend the rights of home owners. ©2014 REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®
Otsego-Delaware Board of RealtORs® ODBR.com ODBRmls.com
1VUGIQ &GNCYCTG $QCTF QH 4'#.6145s
Home of the Week Well Maintained Ranch! This west end Oneonta home features 3 BRs, and 1½ baths w/tile flooring. Master BR has private ½ bath. Nice kitchen has lots of cabinets and counter space. Formal DR is open to kitchen, w/sliding glass doors lead to a 2-tiered deck. LR is spacious and bright. Laundry room on first floor. Well cared for home, dry basement, paved driveway, fenced yard. Easy access to Greater Plains elementary school, pool, tennis courts.
MLS#104304 $145,000
Lizabeth Rose, Broker/Owner · Cricket Keto, Licensed Assoc. Broker · Peter D. Clark, Consultant
locally owned and operated single and multi-family homes commercial property and land oneontarealty.com office 607.441.7312 fax 607.432.7580 99 Main Street, Oneonta
A
FRIDAY, march 11, 2016
CCOMPLISHMENT
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HOMETOWN ONEONTA A-7
ONORED
Ian Austin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA & The Freeman’s Journal
It was a night to remember for Edmeston’s Robinson family, as their company, NYCM Insurance, received the NBT Bank Distinguished Business Award at the Otsego County Chamber’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Businesss Thursday, March 3, at SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union Ballroom. Celebrants included VanNess Robinson, board chairman; his son, Dan Robinson president/CEO, and two of his children, Jeremy and Cheryl, who are vice presidents.
To the applause of well-wishers, Frank Russo, executive director of the Oneonta Family YMCA, strides to the dais to accept the Otsego Chamber’s second annual Quality of Life Award for creating a “Y Without Walls.�
Proposed Revisions In Charter Are Aired CHARTER/From A1 member John Rafter, Seventh Ward, who also served on the ad hoc committee. Council members David Rissberger, Third Ward, (who chaired the original commission that drew up the charter); Joe Ficano, Eighth Ward and Michelle Osterhoudt, Fourth ward, round out Rafter’s committee. Council members Melissa Nicosia, Second Ward and Russ Southard, Sixth Ward, also served on the Charter Revision Committee, and all Common Council members are invited to attend and ask questions following the presentation. “The overall purpose is to begin to try and understand what the (proposed) changes are and the rationale behind them� said Rafter. “We want to have them out there so Council can digest and discuss later.� During the meeting, the public will also have a chance to comment. “I had a lot of people calling me to say they couldn’t make it at 4,� said Herzig. “So we’re moving the public comment period until after the presentation to give more people the opportunity to speak.� Herzig stressed, however, than this is not the formal public hearing on the revisions, the date of which is to be determined. “I expect we’ll have a pretty good turnout,� said Herzig. “There will be many different and opposing opinions there.�
And Rafter believes that there will be more than one chance for the public to comment. “They can speak at any public meeting during the comment period,� he said. “And there will be a public hearing in the future.� The current Charter has been available on the city’s website. On Tuesday, March 8, a draft of the proposed charter was also posted, as well as a document outlining the proposed changes. “The memo has a list of all the changes, with section numbers so people can compare the changes to the original document,� said Herzig. “It’s the easiest way for people to follow.� Herzig received the proposed revisions on Sunday evening, although all the ad hoc committee meetings have been reported in Hometown Oneonta, so have been in the public sphere. “Many of the changes are minor, addressing contradictions,� he said. “And a few things were added – for instance, if there’s a tie vote, like we had this year, the committee added language that gives Council the right to appoint someone until the next general election.� He continued, “We’re not asking for action from Common Council right now. We want to give them an opportunity to really examine and think through the changes.� “This is only the beginning of an informed process,� said Rafter.
The Rev. Teressa Sivers, pastor, First UM Church, Oneonta, sends forth the celebrants at evening’s end. Behind her is chamber President Barbara Ann Heegan.
Congratulations to the 2016 Otsego County Chamber Winners John Remillard - Eugene A. Bettiol, Jr. Distinguished Citizen NYCM Insurance- Distinguished Business of the Year Oneonta Family YMCA - Quality of Life Award
4 Market Street, Oneonta ¡ 607-432-6600 ¡ www.greenearthoneonta.com
$XWRPRELOH ‡ +RPHRZQHU ‡ &RPPHUFLDO
A Sincere Congratulations From the Board of Directors, Officers & Employees at NYCM Insurance to
John Remillard
Eugene A. Bettiol, Jr., Distinguished Citizen Award
Oneonta Family YMCA Quality of Life Award
We at
NYCM Insurance are honored
to be recognized as the NBT Bank Distinguished Business Honoree
New York Central Mutual Fire Insurance Company
$FOUSBM 1MB[B &BTU &ENFTUPO /: t
nycm.com
AllOTSEGO.homes OneOnta • 75 Market Street 607-433-1020 COOperStOwn • State Hwy 28 607-547-5933
MLS#103962 25 Church Street, Morris Opportunity for the handyman. Many renovations done: new floors, sheet rock, even the foundation has been repaired. Call or text Sharon Teator @ 607-267-2681 (cell)
MLS#100073 $264,900 3-4 BR ranch brings historical styling to modern efficiency. Secluded waterfront property in tranquil setting of Larchwood Lake. 500’ lake frontage. Call Adam Karns @ 607-244-9633 (cell)
MLS#102610 $132,500 Awesome Views! 3 BRs, 2 baths, large garage on 1.34 acres. Finished basement. Otego area. Call William ‘Billy’ Vagliardo @ 607-287-8568 (cell) Virtual tour: www.OtsegoCountyLiving.com
MLS#101899 $198,900 Nearly $100K in Improvements 4-BR, 2-bath upscale farmhouse w/beautiful views, ideally located within walking distance to universities and downtown. Call Leanne McCormack @ 607-287-8965 (cell)
MLS#104155 $249,900 Meticulous 3-BR home on 12 acres w/2 barns including a 40’ x 90’ 3-story barn, and beautifully maintained grounds. Call Tom Tillapaugh @ 607-434-9392 (cell)
MLS#103982 $75,000 26 Mill Street, Worcester Starter home w/many upgrades: newer floors and roof. Heat is wood and oil, public water, good-sized rooms. Easy access to I-88. Call or text Sharon Teator @ 607-267-2681 (cell)
MLS#104145 $185,000 Income Generating Property! In the heart of Cooperstown! Current rental $1,150/mo. Walking distance to lake or downtown shopping and eateries! Call Donna Schulz @ 607-267-6330 (cell)
MLS#102894 $259,000 Graceland is being sold for an amazing price! Perfectly positioned between Cooperstown and Oneonta, it generates over $2,000 a week as a baseball rental! Call Donna Schulz @ 607-267-6330 (cell)
MLS#101763 $112,500 Morris – 3-BR ranch has full basement, attached garage, hardwood floors under carpet. Huge LR w/fireplace. DR, deck, large corner lot. New roof August 2015! Call Suzanne Darling @ 607-563-7012 (cell)
MLS#98180 104 River Street, Oneonta Extremely motivated seller! Wonderful move-in ready home. Fantastic addition w/gas fireplace and amazing backyard. Call or text Sharon Teator @ 607-267-2681 (cell)
MLS#96798 $135,000 4 BRs, 2 baths, den, sun porch, bonus room! Patio w/hot tub. For the automobile enthusiast a 22’ x 56’ garage that holds 5+ cars and has 3 overhead doors! Call Suzanne Darling @ 607-563-7012 (cell)
MLS#102318 19 Meadow Lane, Morris New heating system, hot water heater, doors, entrance door, garage door and paint. Fantastic condition. Call or text Sharon Teator @ 607-267-2681 (cell)
MLS#103594 $79,000 Unatego school district, not in flood plain. 2 BRs, 1¼ baths, spacious rooms, 2-car garage w/stairs leading to a second floor. Fenced yard. Call Suzanne Darling @ 607-563-7012 (cell)
MLS#101445 $139,900 Charming Oneonta Home w/hardwood floors, fireplace, large 2-story garage, private backyard. 4 BRs, 1½ baths, large DR, and several updates. Call Tom Tillapaugh @ 607-434-9392 (cell)
MLS#102361 $47,500 Stamford Village – Spacious 2-BR, 2-bath home, in a convenient location. Very generous room sizes. Wood floors. Wrap-around deck &balcony . Call Suzanne Darling @ 607-563-7012 (cell)
MLS#102253 $249,000 Prime Oneonta Business Location! 40+ acres, 3 large pole barns, shed. Well maintained buildings w/cement floors. Well, 2 ponds, great building sites! Call William ‘Billy’ Vagliardo @ 607-287-8568 (cell)
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MLS#99182 $219,000 Storybook Elegance $100K+ in improvements! 5 BRs, 3 baths, newly remodeled kitchen. Call Leanne McCormack @ 607-287-8965 (cell) Virtual tour: http://goo.gl/nlYXBe
P R NE iC W E!
MLS#102571 $175,000 Great Location! This 3-BR country retreat offers the escape from the hustle and bustle w/barn on over 54 acres of pasture and forest. This won’t last long! Call Adam Karns @ 607-244-9633 (cell)
MLS#102795 $1,400/mo 179 Main Street, Oneonta Very well maintained rental space. Building is fully up to code. Retail space is for rent. Building is for sale MLS#102793. Call or text Sharon Teator @ 607-264-2681 (cell)
P R NE iC W E!
MLS#103068 $209,000 Got Horses? Great farmette on 13 acres, Oxford B-G Schools! 3 BRs, 2 baths, open floorplan, security system! Barn w/4 stalls, tack room, riding rink, pasture! Call Suzanne Darling @ 607-563-7012 (cell)
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for complete listings visit us at realtyusa.com
FRIDAY, march 11, 2016
RE Nt al
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MLS#100917 $59,900 SpaciousCottage! 4 BR, 2 bath house is close I-88.Country Large Quaint 2 BRs, 1 bath, ¾to acre. backyard, living! Newworkshop/garage, roof, new kitchen.small shed. Make your appointment today.@Priced to go this week! Call Gabriella Vasta 607-267-1792 (cell) Virtual Tour: www.RealEstateShows.com/708598
MLS#104221 $129,000 Delhi – 3+ BRs, 2 baths, hardwood floors throughout. Den on first floor. Carriage house, Cooperstown home.windows, Seller paysroof closing (up fenced yard, Village deck. Newer andcosts boiler. to w/acceptable Call$3,000 Suzanne Darling @offer). 607-563-7012 cell
Locally owned and operated Single and multi-family homes Commercial property and land
Lakefront Home! 120’ lake frontage, great lake access w/dock, 1.45 acres. Large yard, fire pit, plenty of parking. Spacious deck is great for entertaining. This ranch has 3 BRs, 2 baths including master BR suite. Kitchen w/breakfast bar is open to large LR. Live here year-round or make it your summer getaway. Beautiful lake views! Bring your family, friends and bathing suit and enjoy life every day! Call me today for more information and private showing. MLS#104123 $195,900
Life in the Heart of Historic Cooperstown! Beautiful, updated 4-BR, 2-bath gem features large flat lot, wrap-around deck, seasonal porch, bonus garage/ storage building in the back of the yard. Inside you will find all the work done! Highlighted by the immaculate kitchen which features granite counters, custom cabinets, and hardwood floors! This is certainly one you don’t want to miss. Call to schedule your private showing right away! MLS#104258 $239,900
99 Main Street, Oneonta office 607.441.7312 fax 607.432.7580 www.oneontarealty.com Lizabeth Rose, Broker/Owner Cricket Keto, Licensed Assoc. Broker Peter D. Clark, Consultant
HUBBELL’S REAL ESTATE 607-547-5740•607-547-6000 (fax) 157 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326
ASHLEY
E-Mail: info@hubbellsrealestate.com Web Site: www.hubbellsrealestate.com
REALTY
CONNOR
29 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown · 607-547-4045 Patricia Bensen-Ashley – Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner
Rum Hill Manor
Cooperstown Colonial
(7960) Welcoming 4-BR home features eat-in kitchen w/newer appliances, LR w/bay window, formal DR, hardwood flooring, laundry room. Updated electric, garage, deck, enclosed porch. Private home zoned commercial. A real value. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Exclusive—$195,000
ChuCk Gould
On 2+ Acres in Fly Creek
(7290) Nestled in seclusion on 40 acres, this custom contemporary home has 4 BRs, 3+ baths, Otsego Lake views. Fine master suite w/Jacuzzi, balcony, fireplace. Open floorplan, LR w/cathedral ceilings, large private study. White gourmet kitchen, formal DR w/french doors, 2-tier deck, 3-season screened mahogany porch. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Exclusive—$699,000
Since 1947, our personal service has always been there when you need it most. With comprehensive coverage for all your AUTO • HOME • LIFE insurance needs.
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Hours: M-F 8am-5pm Phone: 607-432-2022 22-26 Watkins Ave, Oneonta, NY 13820
(7622) This secluded, well maintained Dutch Colonial has 4 BRs, 2+ baths, and bay window w/great valley view. Fireplace w/woodstove, den, family room, finished walk-out basement, oak and pine floors, 2-car garage, home office, large deck. Cooperstown Schools. Hubbell’s Co-Exclusive—$275,000
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Great Location Just Outside the Village Circa 1900 Bowerstown farmhouse w/additions including 19’ x 14’ kitchen w/vaulted beamed ceiling, center island, exposed beams, double pantry, breakfast nook. Large LR w/beamed ceiling, den w/fireplace, DR w/woodstove, mud room, laundry, bath on main floor. Attached 3-room space could be additional family living and/or in-law apartment. Upstairs are 4 BRs, 3 half-baths, hallway w/storage, master suite w/walk-in closet, private balcony. Porch, deck, garage, flat lawn w/mature pine trees, flowering bushes, perennials. Brand new roof and hot water heater. In need of some updating and TLC, this spacious home has been priced to sell! Offered Exclusively by Ashley-Connor Realty NOW $200,000 or $250,000 w/adjacent 1½-acre lot. Visit us on the Web at www.ashleyconnorrealty.com Contact us at info@ashleyconnorrealty.com
For Appointment: Patricia Bensen-Ashley, Broker/Owner, 607-437-1149 Jack Foster, Sales Agent, 607-547-5304 • Donna Skinner, Associate Broker, 607-287-4113 Chris Patterson, Sales Agent, 518-774-8175
31 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown (directly next door to Stagecoach Coffee)
CALL 607-547-6103 TO ADVERTISE IN REGION’S LARGEST REALTY SECTION/MORE ADS, A6
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In Ninash, Love Lives By JIM KEVLIN
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HAPPENIN’ OTSEGO
BEST BETS
ONEONTA
O
n Aug. 28, 1967, Ashok Malhotra completed his journey from the Sutlej to the Susquehanna, arriving in Oneonta, 6,952 miles away from his native Ferozepur, on one of those brilliant late-summer days, little knowing it would still be his home almost a half-century later. “All the losophy stores were doctorate at on Main the UniStreet” – Breversity of see’s, Sears, Hawaii, the J.C. Penney,” newlyweds he recalled. had been Downtown working was both their way retail and through business that list of hub. “People colleges were walking Nina, her that used to – and dressed husband’s appear in so nicely.” the back of inspiration in life, and in Webster’s It was long before death. Dictionary, the Clarion sending Hotel rose, so he out a hundred cover and wife Nina – her letters and resumes, parents had driven looking for the husthem up from New band’s first break. York City – could Eighty replies look down busy – no luck – when Broad Street, lined the letter arrived in with restaurants and Honolulu from the bars past the depot State University (now Stella Luna) College of Educaand see the view that tion at Oneonta. inspired “City of the “You are on our Hills.” priority list,” wrote A few weeks then-dean Carey before, he having Brush, who was finished his course one of “The Trinwork on his phiity” – Ashok would
AllOTSEGO.life
AllOTSEGO.life
Jim Kevlin/
“From shoka comes shaloka,” Ashok Malhotra reflects. “One has to suffer tragedy to become serious about life. Hard times decide our fate.”
It’s illegal in politics, but “Chicago-Style” voting – early & often – won Oneonta Town Supervisor Bob Wood the coveted guest conductor role at Catskill Symphony Orchestra’s annual Cabaret in 2014.
3 Compete For Baton At Symphony Cabaret
V After the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat, Malhotra’s Ninash Foundation and partners helped Kuran, a village of 1,200, rebuild in just three months.
learn – along with President Royal Netzer and Vice President (and future president) Clifford Craven. One morning, the phone rang at 7 a.m. – noon Oneonta time
– and Nina summoned her sleepy husband. It was Winfield Nagley, University of Hawaii Philosophy Department chair. Brush had just called Nagley, who report-
ed: He’s calling back at 8. “He’s going to offer you a job.” At 8 the phone rang. “Can you start a philosophy department?” Brush asked. Don’t you need to meet me? No, said
Brush, he’d spoken to Nagley: “You’re the best student he ever had.” With $500 to their name, the couple took a room at the Please See ONEONTA, B3
Doing Good Unites Oneonta 2016 Trailblazers Coleen Lewis Helped Start ‘100 Who Care’
Rory Decker’s ‘Girl Up’ Has World View
By LIBBY CUDMORE
By LIBBY CUDMORE
ONEONTA
ONEONTA
or Coleen Lewis, Oneonta Middle School principal and founding member of the local chapter of 100 Women Who Care, an evening at the B-Side Ballroom isn’t just a night out – it’s a way to change a life. “Women pay $100 at the door, and charities can come in and put in a request for donations,” she said. “We pick three charities out of a bucket, and those three get to give a 5-minute presentation on why they would like the money. And at the end of the night, we pick one.” Please See LEWIS, B2
hen Rory Decker, 17, started looking into the Girl Up program, sponsored by the United Nations, she was shocked by what she found. In Guatemala, almost half of girls under 20 have had at least one child, and at 17, only 26 percent are still in school. In Ethiopia, 57 percent of girls between 17-24 are illiterate. And in Malawi, more than half the girls in the country are child brides, married before they turn 18. “I was shocked at the rights I have, compared to Please See DECKER, B4
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Ian Austin/
Oneonta Middle School Principal Coleen Lewis and OHS senior Rory Decker share the city Commission on Community Relations & Human Rights’ Trailblazer Awards this year – and the drive to help others.
ote for your favorite local guest conductor at Catskill Symphony Orchestra’s cabaret, featuring Las Vegas performer Kelly Clinton Holmes. Chris Grady, John Brooks, and Pam Murphy battle for the baton. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 12. Tickets $40 (free for kids with adults). Alumni Field House, SUNY Oneonta. Info, www. catskillsymphony.net. CONGRESSIONAL ART: Opening reception for “An Artistic Discovery,” the Congressional Exhibit for Otsego County high school students, 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 11. Free. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main St., Cooperstown. Info, www.cooperstownart.com. ‘SHAMROCK SWING!’: Dinner-dance for mothers and sons (up to age 13). 6-9 p.m. Friday, March 11. DJ, raffles, more. Grandmas, aunts, godmothers welcome, too. Foothills, 24 Market St., Oneonta. Tickets, info, (607)-431-2080. SNOMMEGANG: International Beer Festival, 2 p.m. Saturday, March 12. Main Street closed from Ford Ave. to Chestnut St. Heated tent, entertainment in Muller Plaza. Main St., Oneonta. Info, (607) 432-1030. LACROIX CONCERT: Roots, blues and folk with Dana LaCroix. Dinner 5 p.m.; show 7 p.m., Sunday, March 13. Five albums and international tours have earned her a loyal following. David Restivo, 3-time National Pianist of the Year, joins in on piano. $15 in advance; $18 at door. B Side Ballroom, 1 Clinton Plaza, Oneonta, Info, (607) 432-2053. IRISH NIGHT: Traditional Irish dinner and performance by the Damhsa Beatha Irish Dance Troupe. 4-6 p.m. Sunday, March 13. $10 ($5 ages 12 & under). Takeouts welcome. St. James Church, 305 Main St., Oneonta. Info, (607) 432-1458.
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THE FREEMAN’S JOURNAL • HOMETOWN ONEONTA • www. FOR DAILY NEWS UPDATES, VISIT OUR New www.
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THURSDAY–FRIDAY, MARCH 10-11, 2016
LEWIS/From B1 In 2013, the chapter’s first year, it raised $3,000 for St. James Food Pantry. The next year, the number grew to $4,200 for Family Services, and last year, $6,000 for Athelas Therapeutic Riding in Otego. “$100 may seem like a lot, but if you set aside just a little every week over the course of a year, you can do really cool things,” she said. “And it feels good to give.” Her participation with 100 Women Who Care, as well as her contributions to the Oneonta Middle School, have made her this year’s Over-25 Trailblazer, an award presented annually
To Schenevus And Back, Lewis Kept Positive Outlook by the city Commission on Community Relations & Human Rights. “It was a nice surprise,” she said. “The e-mail went out on a Thursday and we had a two-hour delay the next day. So I saw it, but I put off opening it.” However, the teachers who had nominated her got a similar e-mail, and her phone began to light up with text messages. “They didn’t know I hadn’t read it!” she said. “At first, I thought they were texting the wrong person, but when I opened the email, I was
very humbled.” Lewis, an Oneonta native, was named OMS principal in 2015. Though she got her degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from SUNY Delhi, she soon realized she wanted to teach, and got an elementary education degree from SUNY Oneonta in 1996, then a master’s from SUNY Albany. She taught sixth grade at Laurens Central School, then four years at Valleyview before becoming the Library Media Specialist at Greater Plains. “When
you’re in the library, you work with everyone,” she said. “I was inspired to go back to school for a degree in administration.” She got a degree from SUNY Cortland, and was offered the position of curriculum coordinator for the Oneonta district. In 2010, John Cook, Center Street principal, retired, and she accepted the job. Two years in, she helped the staff and students through the closing of the school, and, now out of a job, accepted a position as principal at Schenevus Cen-
All OTSEGO. dining & entertainment new york pizzeria 2 large plain pizzas $25* Tax included! Toppings extra
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tral School. “K-12 principals do everything,” she said. “It was such an amazing experience. When I lost my job, I wasn’t happy, but I realized that everything happens for a reason.” In 2015, Kevin Johnson, the OMS Principal, took a job as the curriculum director, and Superintendent Joseph Yelich called her to ask if she would take it. “I never saw myself as a middle school principal,”
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with executive chef, Michael Gregory
Friday, March 11 • Only $17.99
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- Grilled Scallop
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served on a bed of Undon Noodles and Japanese veggies
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she said. “But this is where I was meant to be.” “She changed the culture with her positive attitude,” read one of the nominations. She sits on the School Library Council and coached Girls On The Run while at Schenevus, and her daughter, Katie, 11, is a Riverside School student. The next meeting of 100 Women Who Care is July 26 at the B-Side Ballroom, and anyone is welcome to attend. “We call it ‘Christmas in July’,” she said. “And we’re really hoping to give $10,000 this year.”
Now taking reservations for Easter Brunch & Dinner 518-234-1802
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AllOTSEGO.life B-3
THURSDAY-FRIDAY, MARCH 10-11, 2016
A Partner Lost, And A Promise Kept – Through Ninash Foundation ONEONTA/From B1 old Oneonta Hotel – “the strangest, darkest place I ever lived” – and, no car, began looking for an apartment. Malhotra went up to a campus in the midst of Rockefeller-era construction – only a half-dozen of today’s 50 buildings were complete, met The Trinity, and was introduced to Anthony Roda, his Philosophy Department co-founder. Roda (he passed away in 2010) was 28; Malhotra, 26. • The first couple of years, their department was in a trailer set between Morris and Alumni halls in what today is a parking lot. There were two offices, each “double the size of an airplane bathroom,” and a classroom. Brush was acting chair. “He was gung-ho on making SUNY Oneonta” – a teacher-training school – “into a liberal arts college. He knew the core of any liberal arts college was the Philosophy Department.” Creating the department would require approval of the Faculty Senate. Brush cautioned, “It’s going to be a tough sell job. Be nice; be patient.” The snack bar in Fitzelle “became the hub” of a campaign of “Indo-Italian cooperation,” Malhotra related. Roda approached physics, biology and chemistry professors, engaging them in discussions about the philosophy of science. Malhotra did the same with literature, pyschology and education. Meanwhile, in the first two years, Malhotra and Roda taught 22 courses, 11 each. ABDs (Ph.D.s with “all but dissertations”), the young men spent 16 hours on weekends in the Milne Library, writing their theses; and both the Malhotras and Rodas had their first children. Each Friday, they’d debrief at the Rizzo brothers’ Molinari’s – Tony introduced Ashok to anchovies – and they began looking ahead, imagining what philosophers would need to know to navigate the 21st century. India and China would have the largest population, they reasoned, and thus were “the most prominent countries whose philosophy we must know.” In retrospect, Malhotra realizes he and Roda had anticipated “global connectedness” by three decades. In those days of The Beatles’ Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Ravi Shankar, that decision was a big hit, and the department, approved by the Faculty Senate and expanded to four teachers, was instructing 1,200 students. “People were thirsting for it,” said Ashok. “Students flocked to these classes. They were packed, packed.” Three years in, both Roda and Malhotra had tenure and were promoted from assistant to associate professors. In 1970, Ashok took Nina to India for the first time: “She loved my family,” he remembers, and, “immediately, my family” – his mother, and his 10 brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews – “fell in love with her – an exotic beauty from the West.” The four dozen relatives were a revelation to the only child from New York City’s Stuyvesant Town. And as the 1970s went forward, a
SUNY Oneonta Philosophy Department founding professors Malhotra and Roda built their “Indo-Italian collaboration” over anchovie pizza at Molinari’s. long-held ambition took hold, “to go back to India, to help the people of India,” Malhotra said. At the time, the fabled Peter Macris, a pal of Ashok’s, was taking students to Wurzburg, Germany; Dan Larkin, the future provost, to Ireland; Alexander Yunah, to Israel. “In three weeks, they’ll come back, burning with ideas,” Malhotra pitched to Allen Caswell, then director of International Studies. Launched in the 1979-80 school year, 20 spots for a three-week excursion to India were “filled instantly.” Malhotra took Nina and their two sons, Raj and Ravi, with him, on an excursion that mixed lectures with onsite visits, to the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, the Pink City and other fabled locales. In 1985-86, the three-week program was expanded to a semester. And in 1996, “Learn and Serve in India” began, the result of life-changing tragedy. • Everything was fine. By 1986, Nina, then 43, a dedicated teacher, had obtained a master’s in counseling. Ravi was 14, and Raj was 18 at Hobart College. One day, the husband came home to find his wife in tears. During a routine check-up, she had been diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. “That was shocking news,” Ashok recalled. “She was never sick.” A few days later, he drove up to Cooperstown to confer with the doctor face to face. In those days, Stage 4 patients lasted six months, he learned; only one in 500 survived five years. “Doctor,” the husband said, “she will be the one.” Back in their Center Street home, the couple talked. “Suppose we live for 30 years; what would we want to do?” he asked. “Let’s create a list. Tell me 10 things you would like to do.”
And so they began. One, travel: Bali, Prague. “I will be your firefly,” he said, “showing you the world.” Two, she said: “I would love to listen to Mozart every day.” Three, help the family in India – to come to the U.S., if they wish. (Eventually, Ashok’s mother, Vidya, joined her son and daughter-in-law, amazed by their Center Street home’s kitchen, which she quickly adapted for Indian specialties. She lived until age 92.) Four, eat in the 100 best restaurants. Five, renovate the house; add a Jacuzzi. Six, plant flowers. Seven, yoga and meditation daily … and so on to 10. Keeping the news within the family, “we started doing that,” Ashok said, adding, “Every year, she was able to get rid of the cancer; every year, it came back.” “A month before she died, she said, ‘Ashok, we have done the 10 things’,” he recalled. Only one regret remained: “You will forget me.” “Nina,” he replied, “I will never forget you.” And so they discussed the concept of the Ninash Foundation – the name combines the wife and husband’s names, and it combined their mutual interests – teaching, and helping his homeland. “A month later” – Dec. 27, 1991 – “she died,” Ashok said. Nina wanted to be cremated, and her ashes to be scattered in the Ganges, the Hudson and the Susquehanna. “And we did that,” the husband said. Both boys were gone, although Ravi would finish up at SUNY Oneonta after two years at Geneseo and Raj at Syracuse Law School. The father was despondent, negative, alone. On Valentine’s Day, 1992, he emerged from an evening class into a snow storm. Sitting in his car, he said to himself, “I can’t go on. But I must go on. Only the living carry the memory of the dead.”
He turned the ignition and the panel on the automatic shift lit up. N – the car was in neutral; so was the driver. He observed R; reverse. And then D – there is no option, he said to himself, but to drive forward. “The gearshift of my life is in my own hands,” he said to himself. So he began to work on the common dream, the Ninash Foundation. Son Raj was in law school, so he drew up the legal papers. Ashok and Nina had owned the home next to their own as a rental property; he sold it and used the proceeds as seed money. He collaborated with SUNY Oneonta Education Professor Suzanne Miller, who signed on as his co-director. T-shirts and pizza sales by a dedicated student, Josie Basile, helped supplement revenues. In 1996, the three of them and a “Learn and Serve” group from SUNY embarked on the first Ninash venture, an “Indo-International School” in Dundlod, serving 50 members of the “untouchable” class. Today, expanded to include high school, it is educating 630 students. When she was Oneonta mayor in the late 1990s, Kim Muller established a sister-city relationship with Dundlod, and SUNY then-president Alan Donovan visited there, reading Muller’s proclamation at a ceremony. Malhotra began the Yoga & Meditation Society at SUNY Oneonta, teaching methods that had helped him and Nina to keep worry at bay during their final years together. He also promised himself, “I will fall in love again.” And five years later he did, with Linda Drake, director of SUNY Oneonta’s Center for Social Responsibility & Community. As a husband-and-wife team, the two have partnered in the Ninash undertakings. Since 1996, four additional IndoInternational Schools have been founded, including Kuran in 2001 and Mahapura in 2004. The Kuran school was actually the more modest of two undertakings that came out of the earthquake that struck the state of Gujarat on Jan. 26, 2001, leaving 600,000 homeless. The day the news arrived in the States, Malhotra sent 30 e-mails to various NGOs asking, “What can we do?” He arranged an aid trip, and recruited Karen Huxtable, then a TV reporter for WUTV, Utica, now Bassett Healthcare spokesperson, and her camera man, Keith Hunt, to come
Ashok Malhotra and Linda Drake at the Taj Mahal.
ALL THREE SEGMENTS of “The Nightingale & The Firefly” – are now available at
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www.
along. The TV station agreed that, during the six days Huxtable and Hunt were there, they would end the evening news with a three-minute report, and cap the reportage with an appeal to its American viewers to raise money for the tragedy. With only a Jeep, granola bars and water, the trio traversed the devastated area. At Kuran, a village of 1,200 people, including 205 children, they found all the homes razed. How much does it cost to build a home for a family of four? Ashok asked. $500. Ninash immediately pledged $5,000, with the caveat the community needed to solicit NGOs (non-governmental organizations) to build the other 190 homes. Second caveat: get it done in six months. The only buildings that had survived the earthquake were oval, and so all the new homes were oval. Astonishingly, by June 26, 2001, as agreed, the job was complete. During the process, Malhotra learned Kuran’s literacy rate was 13 percent. “You need food, water, shelter,” he told the villagers. “You also need education.” And so the Kuran school was founded. The schools in India have been a continuing source of satisfaction to their benefactor, who has just returned from his latest trip to Dundlod, where the students celebrated their founder’s visit on Dec. 31 with a bonfire. He was particularly energized by the success of the graduates – two are in medical school, two in business school, others in secretarial school, still others in the Air Force. • While Ashok Malhotra rose from the floods of Ferozepur, struggled through India’s MIT, won the nationwide scholarship that brought him to the East-West Center, fell in love with his Nina, rose to Distinguished Teaching Professor of Philosophy in the SUNY system, and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize every year since 2010, the cycle of life continued in his homeland. His grandfather, who inspired him and insisted he receive an education, lived until 1960. At the time, his grandson, a college student, returned to Ferozepur. The older man had undergone a successful operation, but a too heavy dose of anesthesia had put him in critical condition. The grandson spent the night at his beloved mentor’s bedside, holding his hand. And then he died. “He was on top of the world,” his grandson remembers. “And he suddenly disappeared. It was a shocking experience.” As is life, although with less of the drama, the joys and tragedies, related by Ashok Malhotra. “From shoka comes shaloka,” he reflects, repeating an Indian proverb. From grief, comes poetry.
AllOTSEGO.opportunities
Inspector. Applications should be submitted by March 25. Applications and job description are available The City of Oneonta Police is seeking at Department the Personnel Ofapplications for a full-time fice,Parking 258 Enforcement Main St., or Officer. The position may filled as a provisional at be www.oneonta.ny.us/ appointment, subject topersonnel a competitive civil EOE service examination. Applications and minimum qualifications are available at the Personnel Office, 258 Main Street, or online at www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel. Application deadline: March 18, 2016 EOE
Parking Enforcement Officer
Part-Time Plumbing Inspector
The City of Oneonta is accepting applications for the position of Part-Time Plumbing Inspector. Applications should be submitted by March 25. Applications and job description are available at the Personnel Office, 258 Main Street, or online at www.oneonta.ny.us/personnel.
EOE
Village of Cooperstown Seasonal Positions Brewery Ommegang is currently seeking committed individuals for the following part-time positions in our visitor’s center – tour guides/store staff, servers, cooks, host, expo, dishwashers. Candidates must be personable, trustworthy and enthusiastic. Must be able to lift 40 lbs. repeatedly. Will be required to work nights, weekends and some holidays. Please apply in person at Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown, NY. Brewery Ommegang - Duvel Moortgat USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Brewery Ommegang is seeking a staff brewer. This position will contribute to all aspects of the brewing process. Must be able to continuously lift 40 lbs. and do shift work. For full job description, please see www.ommegang.com/#!jobs. Resumes should be e-mailed to phil@ommegang.com. Brewery Ommegang is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Caretakers for Village Parks Lifeguards for Village Parks Boat Wash Attendants for Boat Launch
The Village of Cooperstown has seasonal openings for the positions as listed above. For further information including applications please contact the Village Clerk at the address listed below or by calling 607-547-2411. Positions will be needed from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day for caretaker and lifeguard positions at both Three Mile Point Park and Fairy Spring Park and mid-May to the end of October for Boat Wash Attendants at the Village Boat Launch. Applications will be accepted until positions are filled. EOE. Teri L. Barown, RMC, Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346 Cooperstown, NY 13326 Email: vcooperstown@stny.rr.com
Parking Enforcement Officer - Seasonal The Village of Cooperstown has an opening for a seasonal Parking Enforcement Officer. Applicants must be a resident of Otsego County. For further information including job description and application please contact the Village Clerk at the address listed below or by calling 607-547-2411. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Teri L. Barown, RMC Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown PO Box 346 Cooperstown, NY 13326
The New York State Veterans’ Home at Oxford is seeking
Registered Nurses Full-time, Part-time with Benefits Evenings and Nights
We offer an excellent salary/benefit package, including Health/Dental/ Vision Insurance, NYS Retirement and NYS Deferred Compensation plans and generous paid vacation/personal/holiday/sick leave. Operated by the NYS Department of Health, the NYS Veterans’ Home is a state-of-the-art, 242-bed, long-term care facility. Please send your resumé to The Human Resources Management Office, 4207 State Highway 220, Oxford, NY 13830, or visit www.nysvets.org for application. An AffirmAtive Action/equAl opportunity employer
B-4 ThE Freeman’s Journal & hometown oneonta
Thursday-Friday, MARCH 10-11, 2016
Youngest Of 7 Siblings, Rory Decker Helping ‘Girl Up’ Around The World DECKER/From B1 how little other girls around the world have,� said Decker. “They’re taught that they’re less of a person.� Decker started a local chapter of Girl Up at Oneonta High School, which quickly grew to 30 members and earned her the Trailblazer Award in the Under 25 category. In the club, the members – boys are allowed to join
too – share articles and discuss topics, including feminism, privilege and cultural appropriation. “We just had a movie night where we showed ‘He Named Me Malala’ and then had a discussion,� she said. “And we want to get a group together to walk in the SADD Run, carrying buckets of water so we can experience what it might be like to be a girl in one of
these countries, having to carry water for miles every day.� She led fundraising efforts for the group, including selling cards with the Girl Up logo where people could write their New Year’s resolution. “Our goal is to raise $50, maybe $100,� she said. “That goes a long way in those countries.� And they raise awareness
of issues in the U.S. too, including the rise of campus sexual assault and body image. “These are topics that affect girls in our community,� she said. She also uses the club to address issues she sees in feminism. “People call themselves feminists, but they don’t know that what they do or say reverses feminism,� she said. “People who ‘slut-shame,’ saying a
AllOTSEGO.opportunities
girl shouldn’t dress like that or have sex with that many guys. We need to educate ourselves, rather than trying to fight each other.� Decker, the daughter of Maureen and Bill, is the second youngest of seven kids. A senior, she plans to study neuroscience, but she hasn’t selected her college yet. She is a member of The Echo student newspaper, drama club and the
Rainbow Connection, a LGBTQ+ Alliance. This past summer, she attended the RYLA Leadership Conference at SUNY Oneonta. “I’m shy and introverted, so when I was trying to get into the conference, I wrote that being shy didn’t inhibit me from being a leader,� she said. “It might make it harder, but I’m no less of one than someone who’s loud.�
AllOTSEGO.classifieds
OtsegO COunty vaCanCies:
HOMES FOR RENT
Otsego County has the following Civil Service Exam available:
Available April, Spacious 3 or 4 BR, 2 Bath, Kitchen w/Island, Den, LivRm w/ Fireplace, Dining & FamRm w/Pellet Stove, Enclosed Porch, Garage, 15 Acres, Located 3 Miles From Cooperstown. $1900. Mo. + utilities. Call Kathy Fistrowicz @ (607) 267-2683 (cell) TFN
Correctional Officer #64-577
Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma. Special Requirements for Acceptance of Application: Possession of an appropriate level New York State driver’s license at the time of appointment and maintained throughout employment. Please submit a copy of your license with your application. Incumbents in this position are required to reside within the County of Otsego at all times during their employment in this title. LDTF: 3/16/16
For applications and exam announcements, visit the Otsego County Personnel Office, 183 Main Street Cooperstown, or our web page at www. otsegocountyemployment.com. EOE
Pierstown area with spectacular views of Otsego Lake. 3BR/2BA house. $1,800. a month plus utilities, years lease plus security. Call Hubbell’s Real Estate. 607-5475740. 'FOJNPSF "SU .VTFVN BOE 5IF 'BSNFST .VTFVN BSF BDDFQUJOH BQQMJDBUJPOT GPS BO TFN
• $FFRXQWV 3D\DEOH $FFRXQWDQW •
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Fly Creek Valley area with country views. Immaculate Early 1800’s 4BR/2+BA house, garage. $2,500. a month plus utilities, plus security. Call Hubbell’s Real Estate. 607-5475740. TFN Milford House. 2, possible 3 bedroom. Nice lawns. Views. Garage. Milford schools. No
light and bright retail space second to none in the downtown lower hub of the city. $2950 per month. Call Benson Agency Real Estate, LLC for details at 607-432-4391. TFN
pets. No Smoking. $750.00 plus utilities. Dave LaDuke: (607)435-2405 TFN APARTMENTS FOR RENT Cooperstown apartments. Edge of village. 2 bedroom upstairs. Recently redone. $950 includes heat and elec. Parking. No dogs. No Smoking. Call Dave LaDuke: (607) 435-2405 TFN
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Cooperstown multi-use commercial /w Main St. & Doubleday lot access. Optional 1st floor double retail space, outdoor courtyard. 2nd floor: 4 private rooms/offices. Restrooms/central air/alarm/ phone. Call to discuss ideas/ options. Kathy Fistrowicz 607267-2683 TFN
Oneonta Retail Space For Lease! Over 8,000 square feet of space featuring loading dock with overhead door and warehouse area, plus a
Oneonta Business For Sale! Turn key, established Bar/ Restaurant business in busy center city location. Contact Benson Agency Real Estate, LLC at 607-432-4391 for more details. TFN LAND FOR SALE 34 Acres - Excellent opportunity to build on property adjoining a golf course. Property lends itself well to hunting. Added bonus: Located within a short distance to two of the areas largest employers. Call now to see this exceptional opportunity while still available. (Sell Broker) Rodney Campbell (315) 868-0148. TFN
LEGALS Legal
Legal notice THE EMPIRE HOUSE HOTEL, LLC filed with SSNY 12/18/15. Office location: Otesgo County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Sasan Khashaei, 136 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville, NY 13776. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalMarch17 Legal notice Notice of Formation of Brower Property Management, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of NY (“SSNY�) on 01/25/2016. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to: The LLC, 17 Spencer Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: any legal purpose. 6LegalMarch31 Legal notice Notice of formation of MELODY PINES FARM, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on
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February 17, 2016. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to: The LLC, 608 County Highway 51, Morris, New York, 13808. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. 6LegalApril7
cess against the limited liability company served upon him is: Visions of Home, LLC, 101 Spruce Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the business of the limited liability company is any lawful business purpose.
(SSNY) was 12 February 2016. 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 2121 County Hwy 22, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws. 6LegalApril7
Legal notice
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF New Hyde Park Construction, LLC
Visions of Home, LLC The name of the limited liability company is “Visions of Home, LLC� The date the Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York was February 23, 2016. The County within the State in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without the State of New York to which the Secretary of the State shall mail a copy of any pro-
Counsel for the Company: The Dalton Law Firm, LLC 112 Spring Street-Suite 307 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-587-9600 6LegalApril7 Legal notice
Arts. Of Org. filed with Sec’y. of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on February 16, 2016. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to : The LLC, PO Box 404, Cooperstown, New York 13326. Purpose: Any lawful activity. 6LegalApril7 Legal notice Notice of Formation of a NY Limited Liability Company. Name: MP Test Equipment, LLC. Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State
Legal notice WILLSUE, LLC ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF WILLSUE, LLC Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law The name of the limited liability company is: WILLSUE, LLC The county, within this state, in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located in OTSEGO. The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is:
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THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 50 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 The limited liability company is to be managed by: ONE OR MORE MEMBERS. I certify that I have read the above statements, I am authorized to sign these Articles of Organization, that the above statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and that my signature typed below constitutes my signature. WILLIAM C. GREEN, ESQ., ORGANIZER (signature) WILLIAM C. GREEN, ESQ., ORGANIZER Filed by: GREEN & GREEN 50 MAIN STREET PO BOX 148 Cooperstown, New York 13326 6LegalApril7 Legal notice TROIX REALTY GROUP, LLC Notice of formation of Troix Realty Group, LLC, a limited liability company (the “LLC�). Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (the “SSNY�) on 2/26/16. Office location: Otsego County. The SSNY has been
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designated as agent of the LLC, upon whom process against it may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to the LLC, 54 Lancaster Street, Cherry Valley, New York 13320. Purposes: are to acquire, own, hold, improve, manage and operate the real property, including the property located at 157 First Street, in Troy, New York (the “Property�); to incur indebtedness, secured and unsecured; to mortgage, finance, refinance, encumber, lease, sell, exchange, convey, transfer or otherwise deal with or dispose of the Property; to enter into and perform contracts and agreements of any kind necessary to, in connection with or incidental to the business of the Limited Liability Company. 6Legal14 Legal notice NOTICE BY PUBLICATION OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Bassett PPS, LLC filed articles of organization with the Department of State on February 23, 2016. Its principal office is in Otsego County, New York. The Secretary of State of the State of New York has
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been designated as agent upon whom service of process against the LLC may be served, and the address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of process in any action or proceeding against the Company is One Atwell Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326. The purpose of the Company is to serve as a lead entity for the Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment Program and any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under §203 of the Limited Liability Company Act. 6LegalApril14 Legal notice Notice is hereby given that a license, number (Pending) for beer and wine has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer and wine at retail in a club/ restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 144 Pro Shop Drive, Springfield Center, N.Y. 13468, Otsego County, for on premises consumption. Otsego Golf Club, Inc. 2LegalMarch17 Legal notice REQUEST FOR BIDS SECOND FLOOR REHABILITA-
Legal
TION, PHASE 2, AT THE GREATER ONEONTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY 183 MAIN STREET ONEONTA, NY Sealed bids will be received by the Greater Oneonta Historical Society if sent to P.O. Box 81 /Oneonta, NY 13820 or delivered to 183 Main St., Oneonta between 3PM and 4PM local time on Tuesday April 5. The Owner will retain all bids and notify contractors of their intent to enter into contract negotiations as they so choose. The Owner reserves the right to withhold bid results. A pre-bid meeting will be held on Friday March 18 at 1PM. All interested bidders shall attend this walk-through. Exceptions shall be considered in advance of the meeting date on a case by case basis. In general this work includes interior renovations at the second floor. Bids will not include mechanical, electrical, & plumbing work, completed under separate contract. Copies of the bid documents will be available for a non-refundable fee of $30 from GOHS by calling Bob Brzozowski at 607/432-0960.
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Documents may also be obtained by direct purchase at Plan and Print by calling 800/924-5145 or at plandandprint. com (PlanWell section). Bid Documents may be reviewed onsite and it suggested that interested bidders visit the site and review the drawings in advance of purchasing copies. Prevailing wage rates do not apply. A bid security of not less than 5% of the total base bid is required. A payment and performance bond may be required. Refer to bid documents for additional terms. The Greater Oneonta Historical Society has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization. All persons and qualified Minority and WomenOwned Business Enterprises (M/ WBE) will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual preference or Vietnam Era Veterans status. M/WBE and disadvantaged businesses are encouraged to bid. Greater Oneonta Historical Society 8 March 2016 1LegalMarch7
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Friday, March 11
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SALUTE TO ATHLETES -- between 10:30-10:40 a.m. Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce invites all to Main St., Cooperstown, to cheer on the CCS Girl’s Basketball team as they head out to Troy for a Saturday game. Part of Chamber’s salute to Cooperstown and Milford athletes. Info, (607) 547-9983. OPENING RECEPTION --5-7 p.m. For “An Artistic Discovery,” the Congressional Exhibit for Otsego County high school students, in Gallery A, through April 1. Sales Gallery re-opening. Free; all welcome. Cooperstown Art Association, 22 Main St., Cooperstown. Info, www.cooperstownart.com. FLY CREEK CONCERT -- 8 p.m. (also March 12). Fly Creek Philharmonic Fundraiser, titled “Bon Appetit!” Tickets at Riverwood and Fly Creek General Store. Fly Creek United Methodist Church, Fly Creek. Info, email flycreek@ stny.rr.com MOTHER/SON DANCE – 6-9 p.m. First annual “Shamrock Swing!” for mothers and sons (up to age 13). Dinner, dancing, DJ, activities, contests, raffles, more. Tickets $35/couple, $5 each additional child. Mothers, grandmothers, aunts, godmothers welcome. Tickets at Foothills box office Mon-Fri. 10 a.m.–noon, 1– 5 p.m. Foothills, 24 Market St., Oneonta. Info, (607)-431-2080 SQUARE DANCE -- 7:30-10 p.m. Doubleday Dancers Western Square Dance Club hosts St. Patrick’s Day dance. Ray Taylor calls; Elma Taylor cues. $5 per person at elementary School, Walnut St., Cooperstown. Info, (607) 264-8128 or (607) 5478665. THEATER -- 7:30 p.m. (also 7:30 p.m. March 12 & 2 p.m. March 13). Orpheus Theatre presents “13: The Musical,” which follows young Evan Goldman, who grapples with a move from the big city to a small town (and a new school), his parents’ divorces and his impending Bar Mitzvah. Local cast and orchestra of young performers. Hamblin Theater, Fine Arts Bldg., SUNY Oneonta. Tickets, info, www. orpheustheatre.org
Saturday, March 12
CHURCH FLEA MARKET -- 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Annual Elm Park United Methodist Church flea market. Toys, antiques, clothing, more. Church-member vendors only. Refreshments! Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St., Oneonta (across from Rite Aid). Info, (607) 432-
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SPRINGBROOK INVITATIONAL – 9:30 a.m. Special Olympics basketball at the 4th Annual Springbrook Invitational, hosted by the Springbrook Scorpions. Special Olympics teams from across the state compete. Free. The School at Springbrook, 105 Campus Drive, Oneonta. Info, www.springbrookny.org LIBRARY PROGRAM - 10:30 a.m. Village Library of Cooperstown free Family Program, Knitting “Makerspace”! Those who knit, and those who would like to, are invited. Bring your own materials or see what library has on hand. Village Library, 22 Main St., Cooperstown. Info, (607) 547-8344 or www. villagelibraryofcooperstown.org SIP & PAINT – 2 p.m. Relax and create an original work of art with art teacher Caitlin Cook-Wightman while enjoying wine tasting. $30 includes material and one glass of wine. Space limited. Greater Oneonta Historical Society, 183 Main St. Oneonta. Info, register by March 10, (607) 432-5495. SNOMMEGANG – 2 p.m. “Snommegang” International Beer Festival, featuring beer and music from around the country. Main St closed from Ford Ave. to Chestnut St. Beer to those with verified ID; heated tent, entertainment for all in Muller Plaza, Main St., Oneonta. Info, Townsquare Media at (607) 4321030. IRISH DINNER – 4-7 p.m. dinner; Irish Step Dancers perform at 6 p.m. Join the Knights of Columbus (Council 10968) for their annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner of corned beef & cabbage. Free; public welcome, donations accepted. St. Mary’s Parish Center, 31 Elm St., Cooperstown (weather permitting.) FREE FILM & POTLUCK – 5:30 p.m. potluck dinner; 6 p.m. film
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Miracle Maker,” animated film telling story of Christ through an ill child’s eyes. Voice of Ralph Fiennes as Jesus. Free. Part of Lenten series of films focusing on Jesus. Parish Hall, Christ Episcopal Church, 69 Fair St., Cooperstown. GMU FAMILY FILM -- 7 p.m. Gilbertsville Mt. Upton Central School District Family Night at the Movies, featuring “The Peanuts Movie.” Free. Sponsored by the Raiders Safety Patrol. GMU Central School auditorium, 693 State Hwy. 51, Gilbertsville. Info, (607) 783-2207. CSO CABARET – 7:30 p.m. Catskill Symphony Orchestra cabaret concert, featuring Las Vegas performer Kelly Clinton Holmes, plus annual guest conductor competition. Performance in memory of Wendy Brown. Tickets $40 (free for kids and accompanying adults). Alumni Field House, SUNY Oneonta. Info, tickets, www.catskillsymphony. net. THEATER -- 7:30 p.m. (also 2 p.m. March 13). Orpheus Theatre presents “13: The Musical,” which follows young Evan Goldman, who grapples with a move from the big city to a small town (and a new school), his parents’ divorces and his impending Bar Mitzvah. Local cast and orchestra of young performers. Hamblin Theater, Fine Arts Bldg., SUNY Oneonta. Tickets, info, www. orpheustheatre.org FLY CREEK CONCERT -- 8 p.m. Fly Creek Philharmonic fundraiser concert, titled “Bon Appetit!” Tickets at Riverwood and Fly Creek General Store. Fly Creek United Methodist Church, Fly Creek. Info, email flycreek@ stny.rr.com
Sunday, March 13 Daylight Saving Time!
SPRING FORWARD -- 2 a.m. Daylight Savings Time begins early Sunday, at 2 a.m. Set clocks to go forward 1 hour at that time. SUGARING OFF SUNDAY – 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. breakfast; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. activities. 2nd of four “Sugaring Off Sundays” in March, featuring full breakfast, maple syrup demos, kids’ activities, more. Admission: $9 ages 13 & up; $5 ages 7-12; free for 6 & under, includes breakfast. No reservations needed. The Farmers’ Museum, 5775 Rte. 80, Cooperstown. Info, www.farmersmuseum.org SOUP! – 11 a.m.-2 p.m., “Second Sunday Soup,” serving homemade hot soup every 2nd Sunday of month. All welcome, donations appreciated. Schuyler
St., Schuyler Lake. HARTWICK CHILI FUNDRAISER-- 1-3 p.m. Hartwick Historical District’s annual Chili Contest. Music, judged awards, people’s choice awards. Benefits repair and painting of Hartwick Park Gazebo. Paid admission allows tastes of all entries, a bowl of your favorite, plus cornbread and beverage. Hartwick Community Center, 450 County Rd. 11, Hartwick. Info, (607) 293-7310. THEATER -- 2 p.m. Orpheus Theatre presents “13: The Musical,” which follows young Evan Goldman, who grapples with a move from the big city to a small town (and a new school), his parents’ divorces and his impending Bar Mitzvah. Local cast and orchestra of young performers. Hamblin Theater, Fine Arts Bldg., SUNY Oneonta. Tickets, info, www.orpheustheatre.org IRISH DINNER & DANCING -- 4-6 p.m. An Irish dinner of traditional beef stew, green salad, roll, beverage and homemade desserts. Performance by the Damhsa Beatha Irish Dance Troupe. Adults $10; kids 12 & under $5; takeouts welcome! St. James Church, 305 Main St., Oneonta. Info, (607) 432-1458. SUPPER CLUB CONCERT -- Dinner 5 p.m.; show 7 p.m. Roots, blues and folk with Dana LaCroix. Five albums and international tours have earned her a loyal following. David Restivo, 3-time National Pianist of the Year, joins in on piano. $15 in advance; $18 at door. B Side Ballroom, 1 Clinton Plaza, Oneonta, Info, 607-432-2053.
Monday, March 14
GARDEN CLUB PROGRAM -- 7 p.m. Oneonta Garden Club meeting and free program “A Catskill Flora: Antique Plants of Garden and Field.” With horticulturist and plant historian Deirdre Larkin, who retired from the Metropolitan Museum of Art after a 20 year association with The Cloisters Museum & Gardens. All welcome; refreshments served. St. James Church, corner of Elm and Main Sts., Oneonta. Info, Angie Eichler, angie.eichler@ oneonta.edu
Tuesday, March 15
MOBILE LIBRARY – 9:30 a.m.-2:50 p.m. Various locations, Tuesdays & Thursdays monthly. Four-county Cybermobile visits West Oneonta, Oneonta, Fly Creek, Schuyler Lake, Mt. Vision & Wells Bridge Tuesdays March 15 April 19, May 17 & June 21. Info, (607) 723-8236 or check Twitter (@4clsCybermobile)
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GARDEN PROGRAM -- 1 p.m. Cooperstown Garden Discussion Group hosts a “Gardens Across the Pond” program on the history of English garden style and design. With John Bower, Collections Technician and Interpreter at Hyde Hall. Free; all welcome. Cornell Cooperative Extension, 123 Lake St., Cooperstown. Info, CCE at (607) 547-2536. TENANTS’ RIGHTS MEET -- 6 p.m. A state Office of the Attorney General rep will discuss tenants’ rights under state law. Topics include leases, rent, and lease terminations. Free; public welcome; hosted by Opportunities for Otsego. Child care provided. First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St., Oneonta. Info, (607) 433-8000 or www.ofoinc. org. CATTLE GENETICS WORKSHOP -- 6:30 p.m. Beef Cattle Genetics Workshop, led by two experts and hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties. Free, preregistration requested. Richfield Springs Central School, 93 Main St., Richfield Springs. To register, call CCE at (607) 547-2536.
Oneonta, Schenevus, Westford, South Valley & Middlefield, Thursdays March 17, April 21, May 19 & June 23. Info, (607) 723-8236 or check Twitter (@4clsCybermobile) LADIES LUNCHEON -- 1 p.m. Calling all ladies to a St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon. The Value Way, 3 Commercial St., Gilbertsville. Info, bralbag@gmail.com MEDICINAL PLANTS PROGRAM -- 7 p.m. Hartwick Historical Society hosts Patrick MacGregor, who supervises Thrall’s Pharmacy and the Botanic Specimen Garden at The Farmers’ Museum. He’ll discuss medicinal plants and herbs found in local gardens and backyards. Light refreshments will follow; all welcome. History Center of Kinney Memorial Library, 3140 County Hwy. 11. Hartwick. Info, (607) 293-7530 WRITERS’ SALON -- 7:30-9 p.m. Open mic readings, followed by presentation from this month’s featured author (and area journalist), Libby Cudmore. Her new novel is “The Big Rewind.” Free. CANO at Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Ave., Oneonta. Info, www.canoneonta.org CCS PLAY -- 7 p.m. (also March 18 & 19). Cooperstown Central School District senior play, “Charlotte’s Web.” Cooperstown Jr/Sr High auditorium, 39 Linden Ave., Cooperstown. Info, (607) 547-8181. MORE CALENDAR, B6
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gutting one of the city’s most notorious eyesores in hopes of making a new home for families. And at Silver Creek, trees are being cut to make way for 40 units of housing for senior citizens and eight for families. In all, the project will cost $15 million. It’s part of City Hall’s continuing push for more housing in Oneonta, a quest the mayor outlined in his State of the City speech on Tuesday, March 1. “This project will be good for our Oneonta families, good for our businesses and good for our neighborhoods.” With between “30-40” vacant or abandoned houses in Oneonta, the majority in Center City, Herzig hopes that a series of city programs will encourage homeowners and handymen to invest in local properties. For the first time in four years, the city has secured state funding for the first-time homebuyer program, in which income-eligible families can get $40,000 towards renovations to bring a home up to code. “It’s a grant, so there are stipulations regarding income, you have to be approved for a mortgage and you have to reside in the home.” There is enough funding to help eight applicants, and already, three grants have been awarded, with two more people finishing their applications. “There’s still money left,” said Herzig. “If you live in the city and you’re of a certain income level, there’s a good chance you’re eligible.” There is also money for a Rental Rehab program, which encourages landlords to buy a vacant rental houses and renovate them. “The stipulation is that they have to be rented to tenants below a certain income level,” said Herzig. “We want to provide good housing to middle and lower-income families.” And last year, Common Council approved a third program to help anyone who wanted to purchase an abandoned apartment building and renovate it for any income level. Two buildings have been purchased and rehabbed under that program, including a building on Chestnut Street, and a duplex on Main Street in the East End. “We’re seeing a lot of progress,” said Herzig.
Funds Firm Up Fox’s Finances FOX/From A1
“We’ve been working on getting our share for awhile,” said board Chair Sarah Patterson. “It’s a lot of hoops to go through.” According to Patterson, $650,000 is earmarked for upgrading surgical equipment, $450,000 for repairs to the physical plant, and the remaining will be used to pay off longterm debt. “It’s part of further integrating ourselves into the Bassett Healthcare Network,” she said. And once finances are in order, planning new healthcare offerings can begin. “We are pursuing a plan to appropriately grow services at Fox in a way that aligns with the needs of the Oneonta community and the needs of the network,” said Joyner. The surgical equipment, Patterson said, is part of the discussion of a new state-of-theart Joint Care Center, similar to the Spine Center already at the hospital. “Like many areas of the state, Central New York has seen considerable growth in its older population, sparking increased demand for orthopedic services,” the hospital said in a press release. “It’s a perfect setting for specialty services,” said Karen Huxtable-Hooker, Bassett public relations director. Now that the announcement has been made, Fox Hospital will form workgroups to study the demand for orthopedics across the network. Currently, 11 providers in the Bassett network, including Fox and its Foxcare Center, offer orthopedics. “It is far too early to know what the exact plans will be for an expansion of the joint program at Fox,” said Joyner. “It could be that other specialties might be considered at some point as well.”
Friday, March 11, 2016
IN MEMORIAM Fred Kurkowski, 85; Chaired SUNY Education Department ONEONTA – Frederick F Kurkowski, “Fred”, 85, retired chairman of SUNY Oneonta’s Education Department, passed away on March 1, 2016, at Fox Hospital with his family at his side. Fred was born on Jan. 19, 1931, in Cooperstown, the son of August and Mary (Burke) Kurkowski. Fred graduated from Richfield Springs Central School and then entered the Army and was honorably discharged. Fred was an outstanding athlete who played all sports in high school and baseball while in college. He attended SUNY Oneonta, where he met the love of his life, Hazel Ann Hotaling. Fred swept Hazel off her feet and they eloped on Jan. 7, 1956. Upon marrying Hazel he found a wonderful family in the Hotalings and they welcomed him as a beloved son. Theirs was a love that endured and grew and they just celebrated their 60th anniversary this past January. Graduating from Oneonta State with a teaching degree, Fred joined Richfield Springs Central as a teacher and coach. He then became principal in Windsor, and finally returned to Oneonta, where he began his long and
fulfilling career at his alma mater. Fred taught in the Education Department for sevFred eral years Kurkowski while earning his doctorate at SUNY Albany. He then served as chair of the Education Department until his retirement in 1991. Aside from his work, Fred had many outside interests. He was the founder of the Pee Wee Football Program in Oneonta and served as the commissioner for five years. He served on the Oneonta Parks and Recreation Board for many years and helped implement many youth programs that are still in place today. He was an avid coin collector, loved to golf and was a member of The Oneonta Country Club for many years. Upon retirement, Hazel and Fred were fortunate enough to winter in Vero Beach, Florida for 25 years, where they made many lifelong friends. While Fred accomplished much in his lifetime, what brought him the most joy was spending
time with his grandchildren and watching them excel in their various activities. Fred is survived by his wife Hazel of 60 years, son Kevin, (Susan), and grandchildren Kaitlyn, Kyle and Kevers. His daughter Kim, (Kerry), Huffman and grandchildren Alec, Zac and Caden. His daughter Kari Ahlqvist and granddaughter Emily. Daughter Kristie Flynn and grandchildren Liam, Jack and Lily. He is also survived by his sister Margaret of Bowling Green Kentucky and brother Jim, (Barbara), of Richfield Springs and many loving nieces and nephews. A gathering of family and friends was held Friday, March 4, at the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, Oneonta. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Fred’s memory to Greater Oneonta Football , C/O Jason Neer, 36-38 State Highway 23, West Oneonta, New York, 13861. Arrangements are entrusted to the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home.
Wayne R. Heck, Sr., 79; Veteran Worked For D&H
ONEONTA – Wayne R. a daughter, Deborah Janitz Heck, Sr., 79, an engineer (Michael) of Oneonta; with the D&H Railroad for grandchildren Wayne Hack 20 years, passed away com- III (Tammy); Joseph Janitz fortably surrounded (Lacey), Melissa by his family on Duchaime, Nathan March 3, 2016, at Anderson, Aaron Fox Nursing Home, Heck and Joshua after a long illness. Anderson; 10 greatHe was born grandchildren; his June 28, 1936, in siblings, Charles Oneonta, the son of Heck (Betty) of the late Charles and Rome, Mildred Eva (Oliver) Heck. Babcock (Ralph) of Wayne married Sidney, and Lillian Wayne Margo Wayman on Olson of Bloomville; Heck Nov. 10, 1958, in and many nieces and Oneonta. nephews. He was Air Force veteran. He was predeceased by After leaving the D&H, his daughter, Judy Anderhe was a mail carrier for the son; his grandson, Michael Oneonta School District. Janitz, brother Robert He was a former member Heck and a sister, Josephine of the Otsego Mountaineer Mongillo. CB Club. He enjoyed being Calling hours will be 4-5 outdoors camping and fishp.m. with the funeral service ing, and he especially loved at 5 p.m. Friday, March boating. 11, at the Lewis, Hurley & The family gives a special Pietrobono Funeral Home, thank you to the staff on 51 Dietz St., Oneonta. Fox Nursing Home’s Unit 3, Maj. James Smith from the and to Catskill Area Hospice Salvation Army will be offor the care Wayne received. ficiating. In addition to his wife, Donations may be made Margo Heck of Oneonta; he to the Salvation Army, 25 is survived by a son, Wayne River St., Oneonta, NY Heck Jr. of Mount. Vision; 13820.
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‘County’s Thoreau’ Arrested 2nd Time At Protest
Eklund
EKLUND/ From A1 the nationally known environmentalist. Fifty-six protesters were arrested
outside Houston-based Crestwood Midstream Partners’ plant north of Watkins Glen, Eklund said. So far, he said, 537 people have been arrested in months of protesting of plans to store liquid natural gas in salt caves under Seneca Lake.
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“A good time was had by all. Except the police: They were pretty astounded,” said Eklund, who was released and is back home. When he was first arrested Aug. 18, he was charged with trespassing, a violation. This time, a stronger charge was lodged, disorderly conduct, although he said, “The only disorderly conduct expressed was a loud chant, ‘We are Seneca Lake’.” He is due March 16 in a Watkins Glen courtroom. “I’m against any new fossil fuel infrastructure build out,” Eklund explained. While overlooking Seneca Lake during the protest, he said he was thinking about a sugar bush destroyed to make way for the Constitution Pipeline, a gas compressor station planned in Franklin, and a pipeline proposed in the Hudson Valley that goes “dangerously near” the Indian Point nuclear plant. All of these initiatives are being opposed by grassroots groups, he said. “They are starting to coalesce,” Eklund said, “to become a more common voice. These just aren’t stand-alone protests. They will have an impact throughout the entire region.”
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