Population Decline, Housing Top Among Local Concerns
By SARAH ROBERTS
ONEONTA
On Thursday, January 16, around 70 Otsego County residents, business owners, and community leaders met in the Morris Conference Center at SUNY Oneonta to listen to state, county, and town representatives give their annual “State of the County” addresses.
The meeting opened with New York State Assemblyman Joe Angelino, Assembly District 101, discussing his goal to stabilize population loss in Upstate New York.
“The [number of] people coming from New York City is not enough to offset population loss,” he said.
The loss in population—and the impact it has on the size of the local workforce— was a recurring theme.
“The pandemic on all levels was bad, but especially for our workforce,” said Steve Wilson, Otsego County administrator. “The [Otsego County Board] has been trying very hard to get vacancies down [in service and workforce].”
Specifically, Otsego County does not have sufficient police or EMS coverage, according to Wilson.
“The board has made the difficult decision to fund 24/7 police coverage with property taxes,” he said.
“They struggled with this,” Wilson continued, “but ultimately decided that it was for the best. However, [the board] wants to keep property taxes low so that we’re not an impediment for housing,” he added.
Edwin Frazier Jr., chair of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, also spoke on this decision, claiming that the choice to increase coverage led to improved response times that has already saved multiple lives.
Meanwhile, Mark Drnek, mayor of Oneonta, wants to encourage students from SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College to stay and join the community permanently after graduation.
“Half of our population are college students and it is important they are engaged citizens,” he said.
Later, Drnek added to this sentiment, asking, “What do you want to do as a 25-year-old or someone with a young family? What can Oneonta do for you?” and said that if five to 10 percent of the student population stayed local after graduation, the impact on the local economy “would be exponential.”
“Oneonta will continue its march into an era of renaissance…we need to make Oneonta a welcoming city,” Drnek continued, saying he wanted the city to have a diversity of businesses and to be “artistic.”
“A city that thrives is typically dense,” he later said in response to a question from the audience. “You need to provide housing…you need to give [people] something they want to do.”
Most speakers specifically pointed to the need for more, better, and less expensive housing as a way to draw in additional people to join the local community and workforce.
Ellen Tillapaugh, mayor of
Continued on page 6
Not Quite There Yet...
oneontA mAYor, page 5
OTSEGO LAKE--Reports that Otsego Lake had frozen over prompted an e-mail to the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station Tuesday morning, January 21. Holly Waterfield, BFS research support specialist, wrote back: “For record-keeping purposes, the lake is NOT completely frozen yet. As of 9:45 a.m., there was a small patch of open water in Hyde Bay. It looks like geese are keeping it open at this point; while I was watching, several small groups took off and landed.” The rest of the lake is frozen, Waterfield said.
MLK Celebrated by Diverse Group of Speakers, Musicians
Every year, the Oneonta Area Branch of the NAACP celebrates the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at different local churches. On Sunday, January 19, the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta hosted the annual celebration with 10 guest speakers and nine musical performances.
The Rev. Stacey Mitchell, pastor of UUSO, said, “We are so honored to host the NAACP celebration this year” and welcomed an audience of nearly 200 people. There was standing room only in the church.
Poletta Louis, president of the local NAACP chapter, announced the theme of the 2025 MLK celebration as “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy.”
She stated that the mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate racebased discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.
A diverse group of musical talents participated in the celebration. Dan Butterman’s three daughters opened the celebration with a prelude. Later, eldest daughter Malena Buttermann sang a solo of “Homeward Bound.”
UUSO Musical Director Timothy Horne played the piano during much
of the singing. Many songs were gospel music. Sometimes Horne accompanied the Cooperstown Central School Concert Choir. Other times, their choir director, Tim Iverson, played piano.
Yolanda Bush sang three songs, including “When They Go Low,” “I Know Where I’ve Been” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round.’”
Ajaré Malcolm, a soprano, sang “Deep River” solo, without a microphone. She and Ric Chrislip also sang “Free at Last.”
Harry Bradshaw Matthews, a retired associate dean of Hartwick College, introduced himself as the grandson of a formerly enslaved American, Richard Parler Jr., and a civil rights baby.
He titled his remarks as “The Gains are Questionable.”
“As we enter a new year, we do so without race-based affirmative action, with attacks on DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), reversal of Roe vs. Wade, and a split in the coalition supporting the Civil Rights Movement,” Matthews said.
On a positive note, a Merrill Lynch report dated 2023 reports two million black millionaires and 46 percent with middle-class status, according to Matthews’ research. However, “The other 45 percent is
Continued on page 6
the partial observer Monica calzolari
Photo by Monica Calzolari
oneonta’s Unitarian Universalist society hosted this year’s annual celebration of the rev. Dr. Martin luther King Jr.
Photo by williamjaymiller.com
COOPERSTOWN—
ballroom of the Village Hall at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 26. Dr. William Richtsmeier will present original research in a talk titled “How Wind, Rain, Ice and Snow Affect Otsego Lake’s Summer Safety—A Physician’s View of Cyanobacteria
scene
Toxins and Us.” The program is free and open to the public. There will be a tea reception at 2p.m. in memory of Kuzminski, who passed away on August 22, 2024.
Jewelry Sale Set for Feb.
ONEONTA—Super Heroes Humane Society will hold its popular Valentine’s Day jewelry sale from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, February 8 and 9 at the shelter, 160 Pony Farm Road. Shoppers can find Valentine’s Day gifts and meet adoptable dogs and cats. Jewelry donations are welcome at the shelter from noon to 5 p.m. on weekends, as are donations of pet food and supplies.
Feb. Concert Sells Out
COOPERSTOWN—
Due to unprecedented demand, the Cooperstown Concerts
show featuring Harvest and Rust: A Neil Young Experience on February 1 has sold out. For more information or to view future concerts, visit https://cooperstownconcerts.org/.
Seed Swap Is This Saturday
COOPERSTOWN—
Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties will observe National Seed Swap Day to conserve and promote local biodiversity on Saturday, January 25. Participation is free, and neighbors from across the region are invited to exchange seeds and discuss the upcoming growing season. The swaps will be held from 10-11 a.m. at the Middleburgh Library, 323 Main Street, and from 9 a.m. to noon at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street in Oneonta. Visit www. cceschoharie-otsego.org
The Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital seeks Clinical Laboratory Technologist I for Cooperstown, NY. Bach or equiv degree in Chem, Bio, or Med Tech. License from NYSED as Clinical Lab Technologist, or licensure eligible w/ limited permit or limited license as Clinical Lab Technologist. 1st, 2nd, 3rd shifts and weekends as reqd. Salary range is $70,636.80 - $105,955.20. Resume to https://jobs.bassett.org/jobs/ 12165?lang=en-us
or https://www.facebook. com/CCEOtsegoMG/ for more information.
Chorus Offers
V-Day Option
ONEONTA—Oneonta’s City of the Hills Sweet Adelines chorus will deliver singing Valentine messages within a 25-mile radius of Oneonta on Friday, February 14. Recipients will enjoy a love song and other tokens of affection delivered by a group of door-to-door singers. Orders placed by January 31 will cost $30.00, and those made thereafter will cost $35.00. Contact Elaine at (607) 267-5540 or ebonadies22@gmail. com with recipient’s name, time and location to schedule an order.
Auditions Are This Weekend
ONEONTA—Catskill
Community Players will hold open auditions for Luigi Jannuzzi’s comedy, “A Crazy Little Cafe Called Love,” at the First United Methodist Church in Oneonta from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, January 26 and 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28.
Actors are sought for eight female and eight male roles ranging in age from 20 to 75. Performances will be held in the Wieting Theatre in Worcester on April 25-27.
For more information or to schedule an audition, visit www.catskillplayers.org or contact garyabbeykoutnik@ gmail.com.
Soup R Chili Event Slated
COOPERSTOWN—
The First Baptist Church of Cooperstown, 21 Elm Street, will hold its Winter Carnival Soup R Chili event from 4:30-6 p.m. or until sold out on Friday, January 31. Chili, beef barley soup and broccoli chowder will be available in quart sizes, with a suggested donation of $12.00 per serving. All proceeds will benefit the ministry, especially parsonage restoration after the summer’s fire. Orders may be placed in advance by e-mailing name, type and quantity to baptistcooperstown@ gmail.com.
Apply Now for Arts Grants
EARLVILLE—
Earlville Opera House announced that a total of $67,500.00 is available for 2025 Arts in the Community Grants in Broome, Chenango and Otsego Counties. Community and individual grants are available for projects taking place in 2025 or the first quarter of 2026.
A series of virtual workshops will be held for potential applicants to review the guidelines and application process. Pre-registration is required by contacting victoria.kappel@earlvilleoperahouse.com.
Applications are open from January 24 to March 3. For more information, visit www.earlvilleoperahouse.com.
Local Attorney Wins Appeal To Close Largest NY State Landfill
By SARAH ROBERTS SENECA MEADOWS:
Local attorney Douglas Zamelis, of Springfield, recently won an important victory at the second highest court in the state in an ongoing battle to close the largest landfill in the state of New York.
Fox Hospital Recognized for 100 Years of AHA Membership
ONEONTA
The American Hospital Association has honored Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta in appreciation of its 100 years of participation in the AHA. A.O. Fox Hospital is part of Bassett Healthcare Network.
AHA Regional Executive Michael Draine presented the award to Joan R. MacDonald, DNP, MSN, RN, chief nursing officer, vice president of Patient Care Services, and vice president of Operations at A.O. Fox Hospital on Thursday, December 5.
“The American Hospital Association is proud to recognize Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital for this major milestone,” said Draine. “We commend the leaders, caregivers and all other team members at A.O. Fox Hospital for the past century of dedication to patients. We look forward to many years to come.”
with Bassett Healthcare Network began in 2010.
According to a media release, A.O. Fox Hospital opened in 1901. In the decades that followed, the building expanded to the 67-bed hospital that it is today. The hospital provides emergency services and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services and houses a sleep disorders center. It shares a campus with A.O. Fox Nursing Home, a 130bed long-term care facility. Its outpatient facility, FoxCare Center, offers primary care, internal medicine, pediatrics, cancer care, heart care, women’s health, dental care, laboratory services, radiology services, and other outpatient services. The hospital’s affiliation
“This AHA milestone is a testament to a century’s worth of quality, community-minded, patient-centered care provided by A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital to the people of Oneonta and the surrounding area,” said McDonald. “This recognition belongs to everyone who has worked here, both past and present.”
Last year, Bassett Healthcare Network’s O’Connor Hospital in Delhi was recognized by the AHA for 50 years of membership. Founded in 1898, the AHA is the national organization that represents and advocates for hospitals, healthcare networks, and their patients, ensuring members’ perspectives and needs are heard and addressed in national health policy.
In 2010, Zamelis began to work with the Concerned Citizens of Seneca County and the Waterloo Container Company in order to address concerns about the Seneca Meadows landfill. The primary issue was the foul smell impacting the communities of Seneca Falls and Waterloo. With Zamelis’ help, the Town of Seneca Falls Local Law #3 was passed in 2016, ordering the landfill to be capped in 2025 and barring any further waste disposal within the Town of Seneca Falls.
Litigation has been ongoing ever since.
Seneca Meadows Inc., the landfill’s operators, challenged LL#3 in the Seneca County Supreme Court, and the law was repealed in 2017 by a new town board. Zamelis and his allies then successfully fought to reinstate the law, and a second lawsuit was filed by SMI which did not garner town board support.
“The Seneca County Supreme Court granted our motion to intervene, giving us full party status, and we moved to dismiss SMI’s second lawsuit as untimely because the
statute of limitations had passed before the second suit was commenced,” Zamelis explained. “The Seneca County Supreme Court dismissed SMI’s second lawsuit as time barred, and SMI appealed to AD4D [Appellate Division Fourth Department], which reversed and held that the second suit was timely and allowed it to proceed.”
SMI challenged LL#3 via the New York State Environmental Quality and Review Act, claiming that the Seneca Falls Town Board failed to comply with those regulations. The Seneca County Supreme Court ruled in favor of SMI, and the Concerned Citizens of Seneca County and Zamelis appealed to AD4D.
The appeal was successful, and AD4D disagreed that SMI had standing to challenge LL3# under SEQRA in a 3-2 ruling in favor of the Concerned Citizens. Since the ruling was not unanimous, SMI is expected to turn now to the Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court.
“It is unfathomable to me that the State of New York allows the people of Seneca Falls, Waterloo, and beyond to be subjected to such abominable conditions from a landfill that disposes of waste from all of New York, eight other states, and Canada,” Zamelis said. “People describe this as a David versus Goliath thing, and I like
Continued on page 6
Photo provided
American Hospital Association Regional Executive Michael Draine presents an award for
100 years of AHA membership to A.O. Fox Hospital’s Joan R. MacDonald.
Perspectives
GUEST EDITORIaL THOmaS RYan
How Congress Can Stave Off a Crisis in Home Care
The next Congress is inheriting a healthcare disaster. Across America, companies that provide vital medical equipment to Medicare patients in their homes are drastically cutting services—or shutting their doors completely. Without action, millions of seniors could lose access to oxygen tanks, wheelchairs and other essential equipment that keeps them healthy at home.
At the start of 2024, Medicare slashed payments for a major segment of home medical equipment providers by 20 percent. These rates—already too low before this year’s cuts—now fall catastrophically short of market realities. A perfect storm of supply chain disruptions, rising fuel costs for equipment delivery and service calls, and a nationwide shortage of trained technicians has sent operating costs soaring. Other payers—including private Medicare Advantage plans, commercial insurers, and Medicaid— have followed Medicare and cut their rates as well.
For hundreds of small businesses that provide home care to seniors, the math no longer works. Congress must act to restore Medicare reimbursement for homecare to pre-2024 levels.
A July 2024 survey of providers reveals the scope of the emergency. More than nine in 10 companies have had to make operational changes to keep their doors open. Two-thirds are no longer able to provide certain essential medical equipment to Medicare patients. One in three providers reports dipping into personal savings just to keep serving their communities.
When these companies close, they leave behind healthcare deserts where patients have no alternative sources for oxygen tanks, hospital beds or wheelchair repairs. One provider’s stark warning echoes across the industry: “We are to the point if reimbursement doesn’t increase soon, we will be shutting our doors and leaving 15,000 patients without a provider.”
What makes these reimbursement cuts so baffling is their ignorance of basic health economics. Caring for patients at home reduces visits to the hospital, which cost more than $3,000.00 per day, on average.
Or consider the costs of long-term institutional care. The average cost of a stay in an assisted living facility is $5,300.00 a month. For patients who require nursing home care, the tab can run nearly $10,000.00 a month.
Home medical equipment that can allow people to receive care at home—like home-oxygen systems and mobility aids—can save patients and their families tens of thousands of dollars.
This crisis comes at precisely the wrong moment. McKinsey estimates that up to $265 billion worth of care services for Medicare beneficiaries could move from facilities to homes by 2025, representing a massive transformation in how we deliver healthcare. As America’s senior population grows, we should be strengthening home-based care—not undermining it.
Every day of inaction deprives more seniors of the option to stay in their homes, where they’d prefer to be—and increases the risk that additional providers will have to close their doors permanently.
Congress must act to restore adequate reimbursement for home medical equipment. The independence and dignity of millions of Americans hang in the balance.
Thomas Ryan is president and chief executive officer of the American Association for Homecare (aahomecare.org). A version of this piece originally appeared in “Medical Economics.”
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LIfE SkETCHES TERRY bERkSOn
A Long Way from Aleppo
My friend Victor’s father, Aboud, came to America from Aleppo, Syria around 1920. As a young man, Aboud left the city of Aleppo and his weeping mother behind and struck out on his own to make his fortune. She was very worried about her son because she thought the world outside of Aleppo was a great desert filled with thieves and treachery. So, she prepared him for his long journey by giving him a watermelon to quench his thirst and by sewing a very deep pocket into his pants to protect what little money he had from thieves.
he couldn’t speak a word of English. He’d enter an eatery and cluck like a chicken in order to get a plate of scrambled eggs. Life was rough, but much better than back in Aleppo. When he was a kid, he used to get terrible headaches, so his mother took him to some kind of doctor who cut his scalp with a razor to bleed him. It didn’t help much, if at all, and when it was again time for another bleeding Aboud ran away from home to avoid the torture.
I would hear about all of this around holidays, when Victor’s father and his mother, Grace, would invite a large group of friends to their comfortable Brooklyn home to celebrate. His mother was such a fine cook that she was encouraged by many to publish a cookbook. When I later attended these dinners with my wife, Alice, Grace gave her an autographed copy.
It was after dinner when we were all sitting in a large living room that Aboud would hold the floor.
“I had to wait until my boat was ready, so I walked around the city with that watermelon on my shoulder. Picture me much taller back then.”
He could only afford to travel in steerage and would be packed in with the freight. When he boarded the ship and it set sail, there were passengers who weren’t very nice. In a short time he was feeling seasick, so he climbed to an upper deck for some fresh air. A man from second class saw him hanging over the rail and told him to get back to where he belonged. That night, Aboud was happy to see the same man seasick and hanging over the same rail.
In his travels, Aboud often found himself in large crowds.
“One time, a man had his hand in my pocket up to his elbow, but he couldn’t reach my money—thanks to my mother.”
When Aboud arrived in New York,
As years in New York passed, he learned English. The headaches were already far behind him when he rented a little store on the lower east side of Manhattan where he sold clothes and dry goods. Times were difficult and often a day would pass when Aboud would scarcely make a sale. It was hard to put food on the table.
“I had this coat hanging in the store for a long time. I needed to move it out, so I cut a stack of paper the size of dollar bills, wrapped one dollar around it with a rubber band and dropped the ‘bankroll’ into a pocket of the coat. When a patron tried it on, I told him to feel the deep, warm pockets! The man reached in, felt the roll, took a quick peek at it and crookedly decided to buy the coat!” Aboud said, laughing.
In the following years, business greatly improved. Aboud specialized in curtains and fabrics, married Grace—not necessarily in that order—and they had three sons who became educated and or successful in business. One even served as a United States Marine.
My friend Victor was the youngest son and became a journalist. Some years ago, he made a trip that included a visit to Hong Kong. Small world that it is, Victor met a man there who was of Syrian extraction. Their kinship inspired the man to invite Victor to his Hong Kong home for “a good Syrian meal.” The food is similar to Greek food, with dishes like meat, rice and chick peas wrapped
Nine Volunteers, Nine Hours at the CFP
Anthony, the Friday morning Price Chopper-pick-upvolunteer, arrived at the Price Chopper in Cooperstown a bit before 8:30 a.m. He walked into the “back of the house” to a cold room, where he located the cart with “fresh recovery” items ready for him to bundle into his car and bring to the Cooperstown Food Pantry. Like Anthony, Carol did the same at the Grand Union in Hyde Park, and Daryl likewise at the Price Chopper in Richfield Springs. What’s “fresh recovery”? Grocery stores have protocols that limit how long particular food items can remain on their shelves. When that time is up, the perfectly safe and edible items would be sent to the dump. However, through a formal program run by the Regional Food Bank in Latham, grocery stores, at the corporate level, allow local employees to be trained and products past their shelf time limit to be donated to food pantries. Instead of being thrown in the trash and
ending up in a dump, these fine looking and still nutritious foods are available to guests who come to the food pantry.
In these boxes, making their way to the Cooperstown Food Pantry in the Village of Cooperstown, are 10-50 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, deli meats and cheeses, yogurts, bread, and lots more. This ritual happens every day of the week.
Arriving around 9 a.m., an hour before the pantry opens, Franny, the fresh recovery processing volunteer this Friday, has arrived and accepts the boxes from Anthony, Carol, and Daryl. Each box is categorized and weighed. The weights are reported back to each store for their own data and CFP reports these pounds of food as available for our neighbors who visit the pantry, and saved from the trash.
In 2023, 120,000 pounds of fresh recovery items were put to beneficial use at the food pantry. This food is offered to pantry guests along with the food ordered from the
Regional Food Bank. Franny goes through the boxes and packages as needed, roots out squashed berries, strips off abundant cauliflower leaves, and puts the produce away in the refrigerators or on the shelves. The “deselected” material is deposited in compost buckets and set aside to be picked up and fed to animals. (The CFP tries very hard not to waste a thing.)
Dee Varney, operations manager, and Will Kleffner, pantry executive director, are on hand to check in and help out as needed.
At 10 a.m., Louise, George and Vicki enter to begin their shift. The “Open” sign is turned on and the phone lines light up as CFP clients phone in orders. Louise picks up one line; George, the other line. “Good morning. This is the Cooperstown Food Pantry. How may I help you?” Each volunteer “checks” the client in on an iPad and confirms the number of individuals in the
Berkson, Monica Calzolari, Rachel Frick Cardelle,
Cooper, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Karolina Hopper, Wriley Nelson, Joel J. Plue, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin
Photo provided
Continued on page 6
THE PaRTIaL ObSERvER
Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART
160 YEARS AGO
The question of submitting to the States a proposition to amend the Federal Constitution in order to abolish slavery throughout the Union, has, as our readers are aware, passed the Senate by the requisite two-thirds vote and is now before the House of Representatives. The Republicans support the measure to a man; most of the Democrats oppose it—not because they care to perpetuate slavery, but because they doubt the policy and good effect on the country of bringing forth this important and radical measure at this time. They also fear that one effect will be to prolong the war. A number of Democrats in Congress, however, support the measure.
January 20, 1865
85 YEARS AGO
Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd advised the U.S. Navy by radio that the Antarctic expedition’s seventeen-ton snow cruiser was safely ashore at the Bay of Whales. The huge vehicle demolished a ramp while being taken off the flagship North Star and only quick action by Dr. Thomas C. Poulter of Chicago, who was at the controls, saved the $150,000 machine from catastrophe. As a 60-foot steel and wood landing ramp gave way, Dr. Poulter applied full power, jolted ashore and sped a full mile before coming to a halt. The cruiser attracted large crowds of sightseers as it crossed New York State on Route 20 headed for Boston. One of the largest gatherings was at Richfield Springs where the gigantic vehicle spent a night.
January 24, 1940
60 YEARS AGO
Richfield Springs fluoridation supporters are using “a technique common to a police state which cannot be tolerated in a democratic community.” The Rev. Lawrence C. Butler told parishioners of St. John’s Episcopal Church there in his sermon Sunday. “Men and women will not permit the infringement of their civil right of free speech and thought,” Father Butler said. “These methods are the short but sharp fears that constitute conniving communism. There has been name-calling, intimidation, deep embarrassment, spying, calling people into account for their actions, and even the fear of losing employment should one speak his views as an opponent to fluoridation,” Father Butler said. At issue is a proposal to fluoridate the village water. “People are confused and when they are confused they become alarmed. They get angry. We have an angry village right now. The village has been caught up in a whirl of vindictiveness.”
January 27, 1965
35 YEARS AGO
During the 10 a.m. worship service, Sunday, January 14, 11 new members became a part of the Fly Creek Methodist Church family which numbers 152 on its roll. The church endeavors to meet the spiritual needs of folk of varied backgrounds, as it is the only church in the Fly Creek area. Eight of the persons received into membership are graduates of a three-month confirmation class, led by Rev. Kenneth R. Baldwin of Oneonta. These young people are: Melanie Brienza, Jim Foster, Sarah Good, Brian Green, Mark Pernat, Matthew Pernat, Lucy Schaeffer and Jessica Tedesco.
January 24, 1990
20 YEARS AGO
Chef David Neil and his partner, Purple Star owner Donabeth Reed, have big plans in the works. The two are planning a new restaurant in Index to be known as the Yum Yum shack. Neil, who has been the chef at the Cooperstown Country Club for the past two summers and was instrumental in local culinary offerings at the Hoffman Lane Bistro and Gabriella’s, said the new enterprise will have a seafood theme, but he hopes to offer something for everyone. “We want to do something casual, very family-oriented and fun,” he said. “We want the bikers to come by, the doctors to come by and we want the families to come by.”
January 21, 2005
news from the noteworthy
Thoughts and Advice for the Next Mayor...
I’m heading ‘round the far turn and in sight of the finish line. Me, not the work. The work isn’t close to being done.
Soon there will be contenders for the next term as mayor in the City of Oneonta.
I will leave knowing that I have done my very best. And I am hoping that the next occupant of this office will take to heart my four priorities.
To that end, I want to share my thoughts and rationale for each.
I know to my bones that Oneonta needs to embrace housing, population growth, community vitality and the economy.
Note to the next mayor: I’ve learned that people can have issues with one thing or another and become hyperfocused on that disagreement. Sometimes to the detriment of other discussions, making it hard to keep everyone on the team and the dialogue positive.
Housing. In my view, the development of affordable, quality housing provides a key opportunity to increase density in the city. Density generates vitality. Vitality creates economic opportunity. Economic opportunity is a clarion call to population growth.
And population growth is best achieved if we retain more of our young people, increase the number of graduates who stay, and attract young families. We must determine what this valuable demographic wants out of life and provide it. We need to think young.
Many want a funky, fun, and generally pleasant experience with a quaint and historic downtown. A place where the visual and performing arts inform the experience, and where niche shopping and diverse dining options are plentiful. A place where the vitality of the community is palpable,
By MERL REAGLE
with stores open late and the staff and customers to warrant it.
Where the streets are well patrolled and safe, and the concerns of the unhoused are well addressed.
I advocated for three additional police officers, and we got them. This will allow for the reinstatement of foot patrols. Which is huge.
The SOS [Safe Options Support] program, and the Utica Center for Development’s veterans’ outreach and assistance program and their hundreds-deep caseloads are game-changers. Added to the work of all our other agencies, we are better armed than most municipalities to make a meaningful difference.
But a necessary component of that success lies in the development of housing. There is currently a logjam in our shelters of gainfully-employed people who can’t find affordable housing, and little viable shelter for those who are most desperate. We need to begin to add options.
That will come from a reduction in student rentals, and a greater number of market-rate rental choices and home sales. It will also come from new construction.
Our housing options will need to expand in every direction. Senior housing, market rate housing, and moderate, affordable housing.
To successfully recruit and retain a growing population, we must offer affordable places to live, and government services that guarantee the reliability of the infrastructure and the safety and security of every resident.
We cannot tax our way to that. We must find other means of ensuring Oneonta’s long-term solvency. In some instances, we will need to invest in ourselves, with confidence in the return
Continued on page 6
Animals Are People, Too…
MLK
Continued from page 1
lower class, with mostly single-parent households headed by women,” Matthews said. According to the Brookings Institute, “a major indicator of inequality in U.S. society is the distribution of wealth.”
Matthews said, “In 2023, the mean income of Black bachelor’s degree holders was $71,390.00 compared to $91,430.00 for white Americans with a bachelor’s degree.”
Matthews offered two suggestions. He said that more effort was needed teaching financial literacy to those in need of upward mobility. He recommended “each one, teaches one.”
He also challenged the audience to be change makers in our local communities. He referenced Jerry Brown, the former governor of California, when Brown said, “The best ideas frequently appear at the local level with its success forwarded to the national level.”
Andrew Puritz recited MLK’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech from the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. He received a standing ovation for his impassioned rendition.
MLK said, “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be selfevident, that all men are created equal….I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character….”
Four students from Oneonta Job Corps expressed their dreams.
Jordon Brown reminded us that the Honorable Rev. Martin Luther King said that before physical reconstruction can happen, mental reconstruction must occur. He said, “The heart must change.”
Brown said, “It’s not over. The work continues with me and you….King had a dream and we must work to make that dream a reality.”
Kai Thomas of Oneonta Job Corp was optimistic about the current state of Black culture heavily influencing music, sports and entertainment. He said that one of the hurdles that remains to be overcome is “systemic racism.”
Mayor Mark Drnek, a member of the UUSO, addressed the audience as a “fellow citizen.” He referenced a sermon that Dr. Martin Luther King gave in 1967 at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Drnek reminded us that MLK said “no to hate, no to war, no to racism, and no to injustice in all its forms.”
Drnek cited examples from our current political climate mentioning threats of mass deportation, voter intimidation, and the right to control our own bodies. He asked, “If Dr. King was with us today, what
would he say?” The audience responded “no” each time Drnek mentioned another injustice.
Monet Rothenberg, a member of the NAACP Executive Committee, drew an analogy between the decades it has taken her to plant and nurture her garden and the decades it will take to overcome inequality.
She cited two men who stood alongside of Dr. King. Rabbi Joachim Prinz witnessed Nazi brutality in his country of Germany, which led him to seek refuge in America and join the fight for civil rights. He asked, “Are you going to remain silent?”
Rothenberg also introduced the audience to Bayard Rustin, the principle organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Rustin happened to be gay. His contributions remained behind the scenes.
Pastor Mike Coles of the First Baptist Church in Cooperstown closed the celebration with a Dr. King quote: “Let our lives not be in vain.”
Monica Calzolari has been a member of the NAACP since 2023.
County
Continued from page 1
Cooperstown, reported that the Village of Cooperstown is now officially designated a “ProHousing Community,” and that recent changes in zoning laws have encouraged short-term housing—such as vacation weekend homes for tourists—to become long-term rentals instead, helping to alleviate the shortage of permanent housing in Cooperstown.
As a result of the changes in zoning laws, Tillapaugh reports a 50 percent decrease in shortterm rentals in the village. She noted that the Village of Cooperstown has not had an increase in its property taxes in more than 11 years.
Frazier also reported attempts to chip away at the housing crisis. He said plans are in motion to add four more tiny homes for those suffering homelessness in the local communities, bringing the total to 10 such homes. Those utilizing these structures will receive access to mental health support and job training, he explained.
In addition to the housing needs, services and “home rule” came up when discussing how to help Otsego County to grow.
Both Angelino and state Assemblyman Brian Miller, Assembly District 122, discussed the lack of parity between upstate and downstate interests.
“What works in the Bronx or Queens doesn’t work in Milford,” Angelino said, to murmurs of approval. Later, he added, “We are the fourth most populated state, [but] the budget is more than Texas and Florida combined…I vote ‘no’ a lot, and it’s all about affordability.”
“All we’re doing is taking money from your left pocket and putting it into your right,” Miller said, in reference to Governor Kathy Hochul’s
plan to give tax rebates from sales taxes, which produced more money than expected last year.
Miller also commented on what he saw as “grand gestures” when it comes to environmental legislation, with goals that can’t be reached.
“We all want to take care of our environment, but it’s coming out of our pocketbooks and our projections can’t be hit,” he exclaimed.
Miller specifically referred to the rapidlyapproaching deadline for the switch to all-electric school buses as not being feasible in Upstate New York.
Angelino discussed his keen interest in eminent domain, protesting that “they are taking away our home rule.”
“We are a large, rural area and you can’t continue to put solar panels on our tillable farmland,” was the example Angelino gave—particularly solar panels that he claimed will serve New York City, not the communities in which they are located.
Angelino named not only the loss of farmland, but also the construction of the lines needed to run this power to the city as disruptive to the communities affected. He stressed that, instead, roof space and space on building siding should be used by New York City to generate its own power via solar panels.
Angelino’s example drew protest from an attendee during the question and comment period. The appeal to solar farms on farmland as an example of New York City overriding home rule was called an “emotional argument,” and the speaker claimed that most of the solar power generated would be used locally, not run down to New York City.
Miller also bemoaned the focus on downstate infrastructure by the governor’s office. While Gov. Hochul recently has been discussing how to make trains into and out of New York City more efficient, Miller stressed that such infrastructure is not available to upstate residents and that local roads need attention as well.
Sean Lewis, Otsego County Chamber of Commerce president, wrapped up the event with a few words of his own.
“What we need is people filling storefronts…they pay taxes and hire employees,” Lewis stressed. “People are looking for local shops. Those types of businesses are the future of the county.”
Berkson
Continued from page 4
in grape leaves, and Victor was treated to a great feast.
“Where did your wife learn to cook like this?” Victor asked his new friend.
Beaming, the man got up and walked into the kitchen. A minute later he returned with Victor’s mother’s book, “Syrian Cooking,” by Grace Sasson.
Today, both Aboud and Grace are gone, leaving behind many good memories of times spent in their Brooklyn home. Their three boys have made their way in the great “desert.” If the current situation in Syria were different, Victor would be able to afford to make his father’s long-ago voyage in style. I often think of him and his interests in, among other things, jazz and automobile racing— which, considering the past and what is now going on in Syria, is a long way from Aleppo.
Terry Berkson’s articles have appeared in “New York” magazine, “Automobile” magazine and many others. His memoir, “Corvette Odyssey,” has received many good reviews: “highly recommended with broad appeal,” says “Library Journal.”
Oneonta
Continued from page 5
on that investment. That will take vision, and a well-researched and communicated plan.
My vision is the embrace and celebration of Oneonta’s creative spirit. It makes us unique, and we are blessed with an abundance of creative neighbors.
That, in a nutshell, is the goal and the road map to our renaissance.
There are some who don’t see it. They see the tree, but not the forest. They see a binary choice between commitments to the vitality of the street or the expansion of commerce. It’s not a choice.
Both are key components of a holistic vision of Oneonta’s future, and I don’t see one happening without the other. Or, to put it another way… it’s all about the foot traffic.
And foot traffic, staffing, and customers are a steady and calculable certainty if you have housing and an increased population. So, too, are new and expanding businesses.
Which takes me back
to my earlier statement. There are lots of opinions out there. People are quick to become hyperfocused on disagreements, and it’s hard to keep everyone on the same team.
But we need to and, until I hit the finish line, I’ll be giving it my all. Mark Drnek is the mayor of the City of Oneonta.
Pantry
Continued from page 4
household. Then the volunteer goes down the list of shelf-stable items and fresh produce from recovery and local farms, toiletry items, and meats, and checks the box if the phoning-in client desires the item. A time for the pickup, which suits the client, is settled.
If the pickup is soon, Vicki begins to collect all the items selected by the client on a cart in boxes and bags. When off the phone, one of the other volunteers assists. Food and items are distributed based on numbers of individuals in the household and provide for three meals a day for five days. The cart is completed and pushed out to the patio when the client arrives for the pickup. “Hello, Mr. Jones or Ms. Smith, here is your order.”
A knock on the door announces another guest who is welcomed and helped to place an inperson order and given a time at which it will be ready.
The morning crew continues to fill orders as they come in from the clients calling in or coming to the door. They will restock the shelves as needed and when time allows.
At 1 p.m., the afternoon shift arrives. The morning volunteers “sign off” with an update about orders prepped and pending, supplies, etc. The new set of volunteers, Elly, Joe, and Bridget, continue the same routines as the morning, finding the time to wipe down the carts and re-organize the refrigerators with guidance labels about what to use first. They might also break down unneeded boxes for recycling, saving the sturdy ones for packing clients’ orders, or update the produce and bakery list on the tablet.
At 4 p.m., the afternoon volunteers turn off room lights and refrigerator lights (saves kilowatts), check doors, turn off the open sign,
and lock up. “Good night, food pantry!” Volunteering to pick up or process fresh recovery items or preparing orders for food pantry guests are only some of many kinds of tasks that support the CFP. Contact Dee Varney at subcfp@gmail. com or (607) 547-8902 to discuss a volunteer job that suits your interests and schedule. The pantry is open six days a week. To donate, visit cooperstownfoodpantry.org.
Zamelis
Continued from page 3
Maureen Murray is a member of the Cooperstown Food Pantry Board of Directors. to point out how that worked out for Goliath.” When asked why it is so important to the community that Seneca Meadows be shut down, Zamelis said, “It’s important to the community because SMI adversely affects the quality of life on a daily basis, it disparages their community character, and New York State Department of Health data appear to indicate a cancer cluster.”
Zamelis then referred to data from the NYSDOH which indicates that lung cancer in the surrounding region occurred at a rate approximately 50 percent higher than expected from 2011-2015, and approximately 31 percent higher from 2016-2020.
“The path going forward is now very uncertain for SMI because its permit from DEC is set to expire and the landfill is expected to run out of permitted space before December 31, 2025,” Zamelis said. “SMI has applied to NYSDEC to extend the life of the landfill for another 15 years.
“It is unclear when the Court of Appeals will ultimately render the last judicial word, but it may not be before December 31…So this is going to come down to the wire. We have them between a rock and a hard place, but I would not be at all surprised if NYSDEC approves the expansion despite all the ongoing problems.”
As of press time, Seneca Meadows Inc. had not responded to a request for comment.
Zamelis has been a member of the New York State Bar since 1990. His law office is located in Springfield Center.
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of SPARROWHAWK LAKE CABIN, LLC
Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/22/24. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 8-12 Dietz St., Ste. 202, Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalJan.23
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
WINDY HILL FARM & TRUCKING LLC
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 19 December 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 497 North Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
6LegalJan.30
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Notice of formatioN of Richfield Softball Complex, LLC
Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 12/12/2024. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC, 148-27 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11434. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalJan.30
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Notice of formatioN of AIELLO PAINT CO LLC
Articles of org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 12/11/24. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom
process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 1644 Southside Dr., Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
6LegalJan.30
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Notice of formatioN of KEMP HEAVY TRUCK REPAIR, LLC
Articles of org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 12/13/24. Office in Otsego Co.
SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 928 East St., Cassville, NY 13318. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Principal business loc: 2153 US Route 20, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.
6LegalJan.30
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Notice of formatioN of HM Print & Design LLC
Articles of organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/01/2024.
Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to Wayne Hesler-Mondore, 22 Monticello Street, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalJan.30
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Notice of formatioN of a NY Limited LiabiLitY compaNY
Name:
BODY IN BALANCE WELLNESS WITH JOANN LLC.
Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 27 December 2024. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 726 Fairway Drive, Acworth GA 30101. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.
2LegalFeb.6
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SUpreme coUrt of tHe State of NeW YorK coUNtY of otSeGo
INDEX NO.
EF2023-662
Plaintiff designates OTSEGO as the place of trial situs of the real property
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 42-44 ACADEMY STREET, ONEONTA, NY 13820
Section: 300.5, Block: 5, Lot: 29
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WELLS FARGO BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE F/K/A NORWEST BANK MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RENAISSANCE HEL TRUST 2002-4, Plaintiff, vs. LYNN KALBER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON
A/K/A JACK NICKERSON; JILL KALBER WOLHUTER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK continued Pg. 10 from Pg. 9
C. NICKERSON
A/K/A JACK NICKERSON; GLENN KALBER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON
A/K/A JACK NICKERSON; ROSS KALBER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON
A/K/A JACK NICKERSON; ABBY NICKERSON TEMELTAS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON A/K/A JACK NICKERSON, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and
LEGALS
assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; PHILIP NICKERSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON A/K/A JACK NICKERSON, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; ALEXANDER NICKERSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON A/K/A JACK NICKERSON; JEREMIAH NICKERSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON
A/K/A JACK NICKERSON, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband,
widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF JACK C. NICKERSON A/K/A JACK NICKERSON, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; KEN GOODRICH; RALPH MITCHELL; DANIEL GOODRICH; GLENN FIGARY; MAX GODFREY; CHAUNCY COUSE,
“JOHN DOE #7” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last six names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or
claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
Notice of NatUre of actioN aNd reLief SoUGHt tHe obJect of the above caption action is to foreclose a mortgage to secure the sum of $47,600.00 and interest, recorded on November 14, 2002, in book 1104 at page 0025, of the public records of otSeGo county, New York., covering premises known as 42-44 academY Street, oNeoNta, NY 13820.
the relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above.
otSeGo county is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
Notice YoU are iN daNGer of LoSiNG YoUr Home
if you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you
can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.
YoU mUSt reSpoNd bY SerViNG a copY of tHe aNSWer oN tHe attorNeY for tHe pLaiNtiff (mortGaGe compaNY) aNd fiLiNG tHe aNSWer WitH tHe coUrt.
Dated: December 13th, 2024
ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalJan.23
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Notice of formatioN of Kristi Lynn Photography LLC
Articles of organization filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) 1/1/2025. Office in Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 25 W. End Ave.,Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.13
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of
M Studios NY LLC.
Arts. of org. filed with the Secy. of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/27/2024. 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, 28 Chestnut Street Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.20
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Notice of formatioN of
ZIGGY’S WELDING, LLC
Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State
(SSNY) on 01/08/2025. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Ziggy’s Welding LLC, 238 Gately Rd, Schenevus, NY 12155. Purpose: Any Lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.20
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Notice of orGaNiZatioN of GRACI FARM LLC
Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/02/25. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Gokhan Yazici, 200 Baker Rd., Gilbertsville, NY 13776. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6LegalFeb.20
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Notice of formatioN of Jorgensen Construction LLC
Articles of org. filed with the NY Sec.of State (SSNY) 01/13/2025. Office in Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served, SSNY shall mail copy of process to Jorgensen Construction LLC, 118 Darling Rd., Cooperstown, NY 13326
Purpose: Any Lawful purpose.
6LegalFeb.27
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Notice of formatioN of Brown Family Beef, LLC
filed Arts. of org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/20/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 1917 U.S. Highway 20, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful act.
6LegalFeb.27
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of
Skinner Road, LLC filed arts. of org. with the Sect’y
of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/20/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 1917 U.S. Highway 20, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful act.
6LegalFeb.27
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Notice of formatioN of 452 Stone Road, LLC filed arts. of org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/20/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 1917 U.S. Highway 20, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful act.
6LegalFeb.27
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Notice of formatioN of
Daniel J. Brown Excavating, LLC filed arts. of org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/20/2024. Office: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 1917 U.S. Highway 20, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: any lawful act.
6LegalFeb.27
LegaL nOtice
Notice of formatioN of PHILTHYS, LLC.
Articles of organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 01/08/2025. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County.
The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon it to: The LLC, 3 Tilley Avenue, Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act.
6LegalFeb.27
►Friday, Jan. 24
SENIOR MEALS
11:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal Monday-Friday. Suggested donation is $4 for seniors, $10.60 for guests accompanying a senior. Today, enjoy a lunch of beef bourguignon, noodles, red cabbage and frosted cupcakes. (607) 547-6454.
POTTERY
1:30-4:30 p.m. Open
Studio. Experienced potters work on personal projects. No instruction provided. $30/session. Held Monday, Wednes-
day, Friday, Saturday and 6-9 p.m. on Thursday. The Smithy Clay Studio, 1 Otsego Court, Cooperstown. Gallery@ SmithyArts.org.
FILM SERIES
6:30 p.m. “Conclave.”
Part of Fenimore Art Museum’s Cabin Fever Film Series. Free with suggested donation. National Baseball Hall of Fame, 25 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 5471400.
PARTY 7-10 p.m.
“Speakeasy: Prohibitionera Themed Installation.” Costume contest, photo booth, music and more.
Tickets required. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. admin@canoneonta.org.
OUTDOORS 7 p.m.
“Naked Eye Astronomy.” Mohican Farm, 7207 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5474488.
PLANETARIUM—7 p.m. “Winter Night Sky.” Fees apply. SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, Perna Science Building, Room 018A, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. (607) 4362011.
►Saturday, Jan. 25
DEADLINE Last day to register. “Oneonta Family YMCA Youth Laser Tag.” Held February 1. 5:30-6:15 p.m. for ages 7-8 and 6:30-7:15 p.m. for ages 9-10. Oneonta YMCA, 20-26 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-0010 ext. 9.
CONSERVATION
9 a.m. to noon. “Hemlock Wooly Adelgid Survey Training.” Presented by the Otsego County Conservation Association. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Route 52, Cooperstown. (607) 5474488.
GARDEN 9 a.m. to noon. “National Seed Swap Day.” Exchange seeds and chat about gar-
den plans with neighbors. Free; seeds not required. Oneonta Farmers’ Market, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta.
BOOK SALE 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Discarded library books, adult fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. Unadilla Public Library, 193 Main Street, Unadilla. (607) 369-3131.
FESTIVAL 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “2025 Ice Harvest Festival.” Hanford Mills Museum, 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith. (607) 278-5744.
YOGA 10 a.m. “Slow Flow Yoga.” Open to all levels. Held each Saturday. Suggested donation applies. Green Earth Health Market, Community Room, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. hello@erinrae. yoga.
FINALE 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Multiples.” Featuring never-before-seen works in ceramics, painting, stained glass and more. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 941-9607.
LUNCH Noon to 2 p.m. “Free Soup & Sandwich Saturday.” Laurens Presbyterian Church, 3 Main Street, Laurens. (607) 265-3354.
CARDS Noon. “Pitch Tournament.” First come, first served. Lunch provided, cash bar. Fees apply.
Hartwick American Legion Post 1567, 3099 County Route 11, Hartwick. (607) 293-7511.
DARTS 2-7 p.m. “Soft Tip Darts Tournament.”
Fees apply. Bring a dish to pass. American Legion Post 259, 279 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-0494.
DANCE 2:30 p.m.
Free Line Dancing Class. Southside Mall, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 4324401.
THEATER 7 p.m. “Unatego Variety Show.” Fees apply. Proceeds benefit Unatego families in need. Unatego High School Auditorium, 2641 State Highway 7, Otego. (607) 988-5000.
THEATER 7 p.m. Disney’s “Moana Jr.” Presented by the CCS Thespians. Tickets required. Also showing at 2 p.m. on 1/26. Sterling Auditorium, Cooperstown Central School, 39 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8181.
OPEN MIC 7-9 p.m.
“Coffee House.” Singers, writers, musicians, and more are invited to share works. 10-20 minute slots. Light refreshments available. Free, open to public. Held each 4th Saturday. Schuyler Lake United Methodist Church, 128 Church Street, Schuyler Lake. (315) 8582523.
►Sunday, Jan. 26
MEMORIAL 2 p.m.
AUDITION 3-5 p.m.
Open auditions for “A Crazy Little Café Called Love.” Performance held 4/25, 4/26 and 4/27. Presented by the Catskill Community Players. Continues 6:30-8:30 p.m. on 1/28. First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. info@catskillplayers.org
CONCERT 3 p.m. “Pops Concert.” Presented by the Catskill Valley Wind Ensemble. Free. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 435-1627.
GAMING 3 p.m. “Super Smash Bros Tournament.” Fees apply. The Loft, Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.
►Monday, Jan. 27
BREAKFAST WITH THE BOARD 8-9 a.m. Casual meet and greet with Cooperstown Village Board to discuss local projects, agenda items, more. Includes coffee and donuts. All welcome. Held fourth Monday of each month. Village Board Room, Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown.
CONNECTIONS
12:30-2:15 p.m. “Card Making with Gloria: Valentine’s Day.” Connections at Clark Sports Center, 124 County Highway 52, Cooperstown. connectionsatcsc@gmail.com.
$89,900. MLS#R1579786 or $83.60 per case
Tea reception in honor of T’nette Kuzminski’s legacy of service to the library. Followed at 3 p.m. by lecture, “How Wind, Rain, Ice and Snow Affect Otsego Lake’s Summer Safety: A Physician’s View of Cyanobacteria Toxins and Us.” Presented by William Richtsmeier, MD. Ballroom, Village Library of Cooperstown, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.
DISCUSSION 3-5 p.m. “Current Events Discussion Group.” Held each Monday. Village Library of Cooperstown. 22 Main Street, Cooperstown. LIBRARY 4 p.m. “Flower Tea Light Craft.” Registration required. Harris Memorial Library, 334 Main Street, Otego. (607) 988-6661.
AUDITION 6 p.m. “Anything Goes Auditions!” Presented by Orpheus Theatre. Continues at 6 p.m. on 1/29. Callbacks will be 1/31. Performances to be held 5/2, 5/3 and 5/4. Southside Mall 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta. (607) 432-1800. SUPPORT GROUP 6:30 p.m. “Divorce Care Support Group.” Presented by the Community Bible Chapel. Clark Sports Center, 124 County Road 52, Cooperstown. LECTURE 7 p.m. “2025 Black History Month Distinguished Lecture by Bettie Mae Fikes.” Presented by Oneonta NAACP. Hunt Union Ballroom, SUNY Oneonta, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta. oei@oneonta. edu.
