The Freeman's Journal 05-11-23

Group Receives Its Certification for Refugee Settlement

ONEONTA

By WRILEY NELSON

The Otsego Refugee Resettlement Coalition recently announced its certification as a Private Sponsor Group with the Welcome Corps Program. On April 24, the ORRC was informed that it has been matched with a refugee family which will be arriving in one or two months.

“This country was built on immigrants,” said Debra Marcus, one of the founders of the coalition. “We felt sure that this community would welcome new families and be a wonderful place for a new generation that sees America as a land of hope.”

According to a release, the process took far longer than volunteers expected. The original coalition, founded in 2016, was reluctantly disbanded in 2017 after the federal government drastically reduced the national refugee intake. It was re-founded in 2021 and has since grown to include more than 90 volunteers. The new federal Welcome Corps Program is a collaborative effort between the State Department and the Department of Health and Human Services and allows volunteer councils to take the lead in welcoming refugees. It is modeled on the federal government’s strategy for Ukrainian refugees, with the difference that Welcome Corps migrants are expected to become permanent citizens.

“We found that the work the coalition had been doing for the last 18 months was in sync with what was required by Welcome Corps,” Marcus continued. “We have committees on housing, employment, healthcare, culture, education—including English as a second language—transportation and fundraising. Those were all essential to the application process. We heard that Welcome Corps said our application was one of the best in New York State!”

In an e-mail to ORRC members, Marcus said that a

USS Cooperstown: It’s Official

By CASPAR EWIG

NEW YORK CITY

With the exhortation “Man

Our Ship and Bring Her to Life,” and to the cheers and applause of her crew, Alba Tull commissioned the vessel Cooperstown into the fleet of the United States Navy last Saturday. This introduction by her sponsor means the ship is now official and permitted to carry the title of USS Cooperstown.

At 11:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 6, the USS Cooperstown, colloquially christened as “America’s Away Team,” joined the approximately 495 ships that comprise the U.S Navy’s active and reserve fleet. She continues the tradition of vessels such as the USS Constitution, which went through

Otsego 2000 Invites Houses of Worship to Join Open House

By WRILEY NELSON COOPERSTOWN

Otsego 2000 has invited historic churches and other houses of worship to participate in the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s 13th annual Sacred Sites Open House on May 20 and 21. Sacred Sites, the NYLC’s only major statewide program, celebrates the diversity and history of New York’s houses of worship. The open house has attracted thousands of visitors to religious buildings over the last decade to learn about their art, architecture, history and programming.

This year’s theme, “Congregations and Communities: 50 Years of Sacred Sites,” seeks to highlight how sacred sites create community connections through the services they offer, social ties they create, and the spaces they provide for people from all walks of life.

the ceremony on October 1, 1797 and has retained her commission to this day.

Living history is also part of the USS Cooperstown, which features memorabilia from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum honoring its 70 members who served in the military.

“I’m not really into decorating the insides of a warship,” honorary sponsor Jane Forbes Clark confessed. “So I was really lucky to have an excellent crew to fulfill that purpose.”

And they lived up to the task. In addition to a display case commemorating Bob Feller, the doors to the living and operating part of the USS Cooperstown have been decorated with copies of plaques from the Hall of Heroes.

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Otsego 2000 has been heavily involved in programs publicizing Otsego County’s rich historical and architectural heritage.

“We’ve sponsored this event in the past through publicity,” said Otsego 2000 Executive Director Ellen Pope. “[Dr. Cynthia] Falk and I have done several guided walks in the Village of Cooperstown to show off historic buildings, including one focusing on our churches’ stained glass… This is one of the area’s greatest assets: its broad collection of historically and culturally significant buildings.”

Pope explained the significant social and economic advantages that local families, congregations, and communities can reap from scenic or heritage sites. Many historic buildings, such as churches, barns, and homes, are eligible for significant grants and tax incentives. Otsego 2000 provides free advice and technical assistance to homeowners and business owners in Otsego County Historic Districts who wish to apply for tax credits.

More importantly, these storied buildings and land-

Continued on page 10

By TERESA WINCHESTER GILBERTSVILLE

Each April, Gilbertsville’s Major’s Inn fulfills its original purpose of lodging travelers by opening its doors and welcoming the Morris dancers, a group of some 40 men and, more recently, a few women.

This year marked their 45th appearance in the village. Hailing from Binghamton, Boston, New York City, and Toronto, the itinerant dancers—who, for the most part, hold “day jobs” of various sorts, perform folk dances from 15th-century England, known as Morris dances. The dancers range in age from 13 to 80.

Gilbertsville was discovered by the Morris dancers in the mid-1970s when John Dexter, with the American Travelling Morris Men, happened to see the Major’s Inn on a tour of Central New York. He then contacted Cece Rowe, current executive director of the Major’s Inn Foundation. Thus began a long-standing rela-

tionship between the inn and the dancers, who lodge, dine, and socialize at the Major’s Inn over the weekend when not performing.

“We’re incredibly indebted to Cece for her passion to keep this amazing thing we call Morris dancing alive. She is an indispensable and integral

support for us,” said Alex Naar of the Binghamton Morris Men, who served as a kind of master of ceremonies for the event, announcing dances and dancers from the different groups.

Morris dances are accompanied by music and traditionally danced by men, although in recent years, a limited number of women have begun performing with the visitors to Gilbertsville. This year, the Toronto dancers and the Bouwerie Boys of New York City each had a woman dancer joining them. Several women also played musical instruments. Among them was Jessica Murrow, with the Bouwerie Boys of New York City, who played a three-hole pipe simultaneously with a tabor (a small drum). Morris dancing features rhythmic stepping, choreographed movement, and the manipulation of sticks, swords, and handkerchiefs. Fiddles, concertinas, drums and pipes are instruments of accompaniment.

Continued on page 10

The Tudor-style architecture of both the Major’s

Photo by Teresa Winchester

The Bouwerie Boys of New York City are caught in mid-air as they perform a traditional English dance on Commercial Street in Gilbertsville.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kevin C. Leitner Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, speaks during the Commissioning Ceremony of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Cooperstown (LCS 23) in New York City.

Ship

Continued from page 1

Among those representing the Village of Cooperstown at the Commission Ceremony along with Clark were mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, Deputy mayor Cynthia Falk, and Trustees Richard Sternberg and Joseph membrino.

Cooperstown residents Bill Waller and Gary Kuch wer also in attendance.

The week-long festivities opened after the arrival of the vessel in New York on may 1, when the crew was hosted at a New York Yankee game against the Cleveland Guardians. Fittingly, the ceremonies closed with the crew attending the mets game against the Oakland Athletics.

In between were a “meet and Greet” between shipboard personnel and guests of the Navy League in the historic model Room of the New York Yacht Club and a Chairman’s Dinner, where the vessel was presented with various proclamations, awards, and gifts, including a traditional tea set from Lockheed martin, the ship’s builder.

The ceremonies were chaired by the New York Council of the Navy League of the United States in conjunction with the NBHoF.

“Commissioning of a naval vessel is one of the traditional functions of the Navy League,” said Capt. Frank Russo, president of the New York Council,

Navy League of the United States. The Navy League is a civilian non-profit organization that acts as an advocate for American shipping interests and supports education of youngsters with an emphasis on the sea.

Like many maritime observances, commissioning of a naval ship is replete with traditions. As a matter of course, each naval vessel has a female sponsor who has some connection to the ship, but here the USS Cooperstown is unique in that she has two: sponsor Alba Tull, joined by Jane Forbes Clark as honorary sponsor. Because, after all, the vessel not only carries the name of the Village of Cooperstown, but also honors the 70 Hall of Famers who interrupted their baseball careers and who, in the words of Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, “traded flannels for uniforms during times of war” to serve in the U.S Armed Forces.

Another of the traditions is that the ship and her sponsors exchange gifts. In this case, the sponsors gave the vessel an entertainment center with about two dozen baseball movies, including “Fastball”—directed by Tull—and “42” (the story of Jackie Robinson) directed by her husband, Thomas Tull, who is also a member of the Hall of Fame Board of Directors. In return, the vessel presented the sponsors with a pin depicting an eagle sitting on a baseball bat and

the slogan, “America’s Away Team.”

Also in accord with Navy tradition, the sponsors are now considered permanent members of the ship, but without the obligation to stand watch.

The final tradition of the Naval Commissioning Ceremony is to establish the First Watch, and the symbol that represents this step is the gift of a spyglass to the vessel’s chief officer.

In the instance of the USS Cooperstown, this presentation was made by Hall of Famer Johnny Bench to the Officer of the Deck, Lt. Warner Vanos.

However, there is still a long way to go between being commissioned into the Navy and being certified as combat ready.

“We are still in the warranty period, where we are testing the strength of the construction and the capability of the gear,” said CmDR Patrick Earls, who joined the vessel shortly after the mast Stepping Ceremony and accompanied her during the 3,500-mile shakedown cruise.

“After we leave New York, there will be further testing of the weaponry and other equipment, as well as further training of the crew,” CmDR Earls explained.

Then the vessel will go into its final warranty drydock from January to April 2024 and become a “fleet asset” of the Navy in September 2024.

Refugees

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family of five will be selected in the next few weeks. It is likely they will hail from subSaharan Africa. The coalition is looking for volunteers who speak Swahili, Arabic (East African dialects specifically), Kiswahili, Lingala, Kibembe, Somali, or several other languages.

ORRC is motivated by humanitarian concerns, but members repeatedly noted that Otsego County stands to gain significant economic and cultural advantages from welcoming refugees.

“Clearly, there’s a humanitarian concern,” said Coalition Communication Chair mark Wolff. “But the area is also suffering from a catastrophic trickle-down effect from population decline. A lot of these counties, towns and villages are losing their tax base, they’re losing property owners, they’re losing businesses. many of the school districts, of course, are in serious danger from falling enrollment and tax receipts.”

An infusion of hardworking, engaged new community members could be just what the doctor ordered.

“These people are committed. They work hard. They are survivors,” Wolff said. “many of them have been waiting in camps for 10 or more years. They’ve done so much paperwork

to get through the process. They have the grit and dedication.”

The ORRC has taken inspiration from the almost unbelievable success of The Center in Utica. The Center, formerly known as the mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees, played a critical role in turning around a city that was once a byword for post-industrial collapse.

Utica was a major industrial and transportation hub in the early 20th century. The Sunbelt migration and de-industrialization hit it as hard as any Rust Belt city; Utica’s population declined from over 100,000 in 1930 to 60,000 in 2000. That kind of decline can destroy a city permanently. The feedback loop of departing employers, declining property values, collapsing revenues and economic activity, service cuts, and further flight becomes a death spiral that has become familiar to many American cities. By the 1980s and 1990s, Utica had a new nickname: “the city God forgot.” If you Google that phrase, Utica will come up.

In the 1970s, 80s and 90s, however, a group of citizens volunteered and organized to stop the bleeding by importing a new population. The city absorbed a great influx of refugees, notably Bosnians during the Yugoslav Wars and Burmese and Karen following upheaval in myanmar. According to Syracuse. com, The Center has helped

resettle more than 17,000 people since 1979. One in five Uticans is a refugee or the child of a refugee. Over 40 languages are spoken in the city. The population transfusion rejuvenated Utica economically and culturally. Entire communities of small business owners, workers, students, and engaged citizens rose up in the ashes of a fallen industrial economy.

At present, only one refugee family is in the works in Otsego County, but many coalition and community members have a larger vision.

“We want to welcome refugees, but ultimately, they’re going to want a community of their own,” Wolff said.

“We want to create space for a real, self-sustaining immigrant community that’s able to support itself economically and socially, and is then able to enrich our surrounding communities in a way that only these truly impressive, committed people can.”

“At present, we’re really focusing on Oneonta because it has the housing, the transportation, the jobs, the shopping and the services for brand-new immigrants,” Wolff concluded. “We’re actively looking for more housing elsewhere and would like to ask community members with available housing to consider offering it below market value. We’re also asking for any kind of support or volunteering that people can provide.”

For more information or to volunteer, visit https://www. refugeotsego.org/.

Museum Opens Memorial Weekend

CHERRY VALLEY—The Cherry Valley museum, which houses the Campbell Clock made in 1728 and a number of fascinating exhibits, will open for the season on memorial Day Weekend. The museum is located at 49 main Street.

Plant Sale Will Be Held on May 20

WEST WINFIELD—The Upper Unadilla Valley Association will hold its annual plant sale from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Town of Winfield Park on may 20. The sale will feature locally-grown perennials donated by local gardeners and sold for $3 to $5 per pot. Coffee and donuts will also be available for purchase. A 50-50 duck derby will be held at 11:30. Tickets cost $3 per duck or $5 for two. UUVA is a non-profit organization that has worked for 53 years to preserve, protect, and call attention to the Upper Unadilla Valley’s natural and historic resources. The plant sale helps fund annual events, including a mount markham High School scholarship, a summer area tour and a fall banquet.

Rotary To Hold Spring Fundraiser

COOPERSTOWN—Rotary Club of Cooperstown will hold its inaugural Vintage Treasures Yard Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, may 13 at the Christ Church Parish Hall on Fair Street. Rotarians are searching homes for fine vintage treasures for this new spring fund-raiser. The sale will feature art and collectibles, furniture, clothing, jewelry, household items and much more. No early birds will be admitted before the start time.

Hartwick Clean Sweep Is May 20

HARTWICK—Hartwick’s 15th annual Clean Sweep will take place at the Town Hall, 103 Town Drive, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, may 20. It will coincide with the third annual Hartwick Appreciation Day, which will feature a community-wide yard sale and business tours and sales. Clean Sweep will allow town residents to dispose of household furniture, yard trash and scrap metal. Families may drop off their refuse at the Town Hall free of charge, or may arrange for a team of volunteers to pick up items at their homes for a fee of $30. Contact Town Clerk Andrea Vasquez at (607) 386-9769 or clerk@hartwickny.gov to arrange a pickup. Community members are asked to consider volunteering and

All

may contact Vasquez to sign up. The town has also asked for donations to the community yard sale, which will help offset the expenses of Clean Sweep. Televisions and other electronics will be accepted and will be charged according to the Otsego County electronics disposal schedule. mattresses and box springs can be disposed for a charge of $35. Plant waste, such as lawn clippings and tree branches less than four feet in length, may be dropped at Wells Avenue on Hatchery Road free of charge. Up to six passenger tires may be disposed free of charge, with a small fee for each additional tire. There will be a $30 fee for appliances that contain Freon or other coolants, such as refrigerators and air conditioners. No hazardous waste, household garbage or glass items will be accepted. For more information, contact Bruce markusen at (607) 547-8070 or bmarkusen@hartwickny.gov.

Benton Secures Dem Endorsement

COOPERSTOWN—Former Otsego County Deputy Elections Commissioner and Cooperstown Trustee macGuire Benton announced that the Otsego County Democratic Committee formally endorsed his candidacy for county clerk on April 27. “I want to thank the Otsego County Democrats for their endorsement and their support,” Benton said. “I’m focused on the work we have ahead of us. The days of paying a lot and getting a little are coming to a close. I hear the same thing all the time when I’m out knocking on doors and meeting with residents. Why doesn’t Otsego County benefit from the kind of access and services other counties do? We are united in this mission to offer Otsego County a better deal. I’m running for county clerk to restore services, enhance customer satisfaction, speed up document and transaction processing, and to prioritize convenience and access for all of our residents. The time for a new generation of leadership is now.”

OFO Plans Oneonta Spring Carnival

ONEONTA—Head Start, Early Head Start and Opportunities for Otsego will host a spring carnival for young children and their families on may 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. The carnival will feature games and activities, face painting, balloons with BJ the Clown, a car seat safety check, other child safety information, and free treats from Starbucks and Chobani. It will be held rain or shine at the 6th Ward Booster Club Field at 7 Scramling Avenue in Oneonta.

Pride Idol Contest New This Year

ONEONTA—Otsego Pride Alliance announced that Pridefest will open with a “Pride Idol” singing competition on June 1. Contestants may enter online by submitting a video or may compete in person at Wise Guys Sammys, 261-267 main Street, at 8 p.m. on June 1. Three finalists will receive a prize package and perform live at the festival. The final winner, selected by popular acclaim at the performance, will perform an encore and sing the national anthem at the Oneonta Outlaws’ Pride Night game. All contestants must be at least 18 years old by June 1. For more information or to enter, visit otsegopridealliance.org/pride-idol.

Chamber to Hold Awards Banquet

ONEONTA—The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Spring Awards Dinner in the SUNY Oneonta Alumni Field House at 5:30 p.m. on may 24. The banquet will celebrate five award winners: Geoffrey Doyle, receiving the Eugene Bettiol Distinguished Citizen Award; Casella Waste Systems, receiving Business of the Year; Creekside Industries, receiving Breakthrough Business of the Year; Connie Herzig, Volunteer of the Year; and Dan Butterman, Leadership Otsego Distinguished Alumni Award. For more information or tickets, visit https://members. otsegocc.com/events/details/2023-annual-spring-awardsdinner-blooming-with-brilliance-1079.

SENIOR

$3.50

EDITORIAL

If It’s Not One Thing, It’s Your Mother

Aside from being known as the start of nasty-littleblack-flies month, this, the second Sunday in May, is by tradition and proclamation Mother’s Day. In this country it’s a commercial event of staggering financial proportions that has held the nation’s pocketbook in its grip for more than 100 years. It’s this way now, but it wasn’t this way in the beginning.

The initial seed for honoring our mothers was sown before the Civil War. Ann Jarvis, of Taylor County, West Virginia, had 13 children; four of them actually made it to adulthood. In 1858, with her physician brother, she created Mother’s Day Work Clubs, whose members addressed public health issues and provided assistance and education to families in the Appalachians in response to the high infant mortality rate caused by unsanitary conditions and childhood disease. Declaring neutrality during the Civil War, the work clubs also nursed wounded and sick Union and Confederate soldiers. Ann Jarvis worked tirelessly for peace, unity, reconciliation, community and, in the end, a day to honor mothers. She died in 1905.

In 1872 Julia Ward Howe, a powerful suffragette who wrote “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” took up the cause. Tired of, most recently, the Franco-Prussian War, she appealed to women at home and abroad to oppose war and support disarmament. She asked that June 21, 1872, be recognized as a “Mother’s Day for Peace,” in which mothers of all nationalities come together to promote the “amicable settlement of international questions, the great and general interests of peace.” A strong and salient quest for World Peace at its best, though not, it turns out, one for a national day to honor mothers.

In 1907, Ann Jarvis’ daughter, Anna, took up the Mother’s Day mission. A single, childless advertising industry professional, she picked up the thread, this time giving Mother’s Day a liturgical bent. On May 10, 1908, she sent 500 white carnations to the Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church, her mother’s church in Grafton, West Virginia, in honor of her mother. (Today, white carnations represent deceased mothers; red living.) She then embarked on a mission to make Mother’s Day officially recognized as a holiday, ultimately succeeding when President Woodrow Wilson signed a congressional resolution on May 9, 1914, officially making the second Sunday in May Mother’s Day, “a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.”

The new holiday gained world-wide recognition. Today, more than 40 countries celebrate annually their mothers, mothers-in-law, step-mothers and grandmothers, some under the guise of religion, others the culmination of heritage and history.

In the United States, the new holiday gained the attention of commercial enterprises, and florists, greeting-card shops, and candy shops took advantage of the celebration, hoisting Mother’s Day, along with Christmas and Easter, to the top of the profiteering heap. Anna Jarvis believed that her Mother’s Day should be sentimental, not profitable, and she proceeded to boycott her own holiday, threatening lawsuits against the commercial interests and insisting that mothers should be appreciated and honored through hand-made cards, letters, and gifts. She went broke doing so, and died penniless in a West Chester, Pennsylvania sanitarium. The floral and greeting-card industries paid her bills.

Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church was incorporated as the International Mother’s Day Shrine on May 15, 1962 and designated a National Historic Landmark on October 5, 1992; Anna Jarvis’s birthplace in Taylor County, West Virginia was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

The first American Mother’s Day celebration was May 10, 1908. Happy Mother’s Day.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

“The Freeman’s Journal” welcomes letters to the editor that reflect the writer’s thoughts on an article or other item appearing in the paper. They must include the writer’s name, address, e-mail and telephone/ mobile number; the opinions expressed must be the writer’s own. Hostile, offensive, factually incorrect or excessively inflammatory content will not be published. The length must be no more than 250 words. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject or edit letters for clarity and space. Please send letters to: info@allotsego.com.

No Mow May: One Way to Help Pollinators

May I ask you a favor?

It has been a tough winter. My sisters and I have been clustered in a dark, cold hive keeping our queen blanketed within a nice cozy 95°F. We shiver our wing muscles to warm the cluster. Those of us on the outside of the cluster insulate the colony and wait for someone from the center to venture to the outer edge to take our place. Not to get too detailed, but we even hold it for weeks until we get a warm day to fly outside for a bathroom break. I’d like to ask you to NOT do something for me.”

This month is “No Mow May.”

This activity was started by Plantlife, an organization in the United Kingdom. It is intended to give emphasis to the role of pollinators in our world. (It also is a chance to reflect on how humans often need to be reminded to be natural!) Bees pollinate about three quarters of the flowering plants in the world. And they pollinate over a third of our food. Most flowers bloom for weeks, not months. Areas of monoculture, many square miles of one crop, make it very difficult for bees to find food throughout the entire growing season. So bees need a variety of plants to maintain a steady flow of pollen and nectar, especially in early spring.

As the “April showers bring May flowers,” we begin our attack on those plants we choose to call weeds. But many of those plants provide valuable resources for pollinators just emerging from winter. The insects are depleted and need all the help they can get. During the summer, a worker bee lives about six weeks.

But to survive five months of winter, the honeybee undergoes another of

Mother’s Day a Time to Honor Gift of Life

When I was a young child (14), I heard my mother sobbing in the dining room. This I’d never seen or heard before. I immediately went to her and asked why the tears. She looked up at me and said all of my children (seven) are asking me to do things for them. She then added, “What is in it for me?” I thought for a moment and replied, “Mother’s Day.” Not much to offer other than it brought her a smile.

“Mother”

How great the pain a woman knows, A mother, a child, from labor’s woes.

Our Goddess, mother, cradle of life, She gives of self, the gift of life.

Gerry Welch Cooperstown

NYS Cancer Services

Program Saves Lives

Maureen Culbert, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Daniel Francis, Ian Kenyon, Joel J. Plue, Tom Shelby, Dan Sullivan, T. Stephen Wager, Teresa Winchester, Jamie Zvirzdin

Web Architect Ivan Potocnik Historian Tom Heitz/Sharon Stuart Legal Counsel Jill Ann Poulson

Editorial Board

Tara Barnwell, Faith Gay, Michael Moffat, Elinor Vincent, Darla M. Youngs

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in New York State. In 2019, there were more than 118,000 new cases of cancer and nearly 34,000 New Yorkers died of the disease. The NYS Department of Health leads efforts to reduce the burden of cancer across the state through initiatives such as the Cancer Services Program. The CSP offers free breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening to New Yorkers who have low incomes, are uninsured, or are underinsured.

Cancer screening can save lives. It can find cancer early when treatment works best, and screening for cervical and colorectal cancer can also stop cancer from starting. In the last year, the CSP served over 23,000 people across the state, providing screening and follow-up tests, referral to treatment, and client support through case management services. Yet, the CSP could do more. At current funding levels, the statewide program reaches 18 percent of the estimated 140,000 eligible population of uninsured

their wondrous adaptations. “Winter bees” are physiologically different and fatter than the summer workers. They contain a protein, vitellogenin, which allows the workers to produce food from their fat bodies even when pollen is not available. So the winter bees collectively hold the energy in their bodies for the survival of the rest of the superorganism.

Once spring arrives, our energydepleted bees urgently need to find protein from pollen and carbohydrates from nectar. Pollinators begin their search for flowering plants. This is when we can help. Dandelions are a good first start. Let them grow. No, there won’t be mower-shaming attack bees if you clear a little of your lawn. But consider leaving some un-mowed transition areas along hedges. Mow a pathway to an outbuilding instead of the entire lawn. Don’t rely on your neighbor to provide for them. Yes, bees fly up to five miles foraging for their favorite flowers. A foraging bee may visit 50-100 flowers on their trip and make more than 12 trips a day. They will often bypass nearby plants to select some preferred blossoms. But adding your own plantings could reduce their “gas bill,” affording them shorter trips to the store. And, please, don’t use pesticides, as they are a

people across the state.

Local CSP programs work in every county and borough of NYS to reach those with the highest burden of cancer and improve health equity. Black and Hispanic populations, people living in rural settings, and those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community carry more of the cancer burden. Additional resources could increase the NYS Cancer Services Programs’ ability to reach New Yorkers with greater cancer burden.

Your local program, the CSP of the Central Region, needs your help! Please spread the word about these life-saving services. Encourage people who do not have health insurance to call 1 (888) 345-0225 to find out if they qualify for free cancer screening. Like, follow, and share information from our Facebook page. Be the extra hands and voice we need to reach those in need in our community.

Mitzi Sackett Education/Outreach Specialist CSP of The Central Region

Your Vote: Investment That Will Pay Off

An investment in knowledge, noted Benjamin Franklin, pays the best interest. On May 16, you have the chance to make that investment when residents of the Cooperstown Central School District will elect its school board and vote on the annual district budget election. As the CCSD Board notes on its website, “Local control of education through elected school boards has its roots in American Colonial history. Through the years, communities have directed the education of their youth by annually electing school board members and approving budgets.” The League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area encourages all district residents to continue this long-held American tradition.

Lynne Mebust and Chris Franck are running for the two open seats on the board. Remember, even if board elections are uncontested, your vote

major contributor to the decline in bee population.

The new growing season is a good time for you to help our pollinators feed you. Grow native plants. A good resource is “Native Plants for Pollinators and Beneficial Insects—Northeast, 2023 The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation.”

Cornell University also has comparable lists. Select plants that grow well in your planting zone. Don’t forget flowering trees. An American basswood tree can provide bees with as much honey-producing resources as one quarter acre of clover.

One last thing. The bathroom breaks. Honeybees are immaculate housekeepers. They remove dead bees, other insects and debris from their hives. They will go weeks without defecating, waiting for a day over 50°F to make the arduous trip outside for a cleansing flight. And they avoid going in their hive, since it promotes diseases and mold growth. Even the short crawl away from the warmth of the winter cluster can weaken them enough so they cannot make the return trip. So, as the warming spring sun draws them from the hive, let’s make their trip to your flowers a short one.

Give bees a chance. They provide every third mouthful of food you eat. Take a break from mowing. Enjoy a nice tea with honey and be proud of your participation in No Mow May.

To learn more about beekeeping, please visit the Leatherstocking Beekeepers’ Association Facebook page or website, or come to our meetings.

Steve Davis is mentoring coordinator for the Leatherstocking Beekeepers’ Association.

signals the value you place on the work of the school board.

Residents will also vote on the annual district budget as well as other propositions. Two of the propositions would establish reserve funds—a transportation reserve fund and a capital reserve fund. The other budget propositions will support local community libraries—the Village Library of Cooperstown and the Kinney Memorial Library in Hartwick. As they have since 2014, district residents will vote as part of the school budget to support funding for the two local libraries in the district.

Election Day is Tuesday, May 16; polls are open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the High School Auditorium. Any 18-year-old citizens who have been residents of the district for 30 days may vote even if they are not yet registered to vote with the Board of Elections.

Consider Franklin’s words and use your vote to make an investment that will pay off.

Kristin Pullyblank and Maureen Murray Co-Presidents League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area

HABs: Mitigation, Not Messaging

The local NGOs have taken the lead in addressing the harmful algal blooms in Lake Otsego with a “messaging” workshop. Good. Since the messaging thus far has been a bit mixed if not confusing. Some groups are focused on monitoring the situation—also helpful if done within the context of a mitigation plan. What’s missing thus far is a DEC approved mitigation plan to reduce the inflow of nutrients into the lake. We know what drives HABs—inflow of nitrogen and phosphorus into the lake. We also know where those nutrients come from: septic systems, fertilizer and farms. Until the inflow of those nutrients is curtailed, the HABs will get worse.

Bees fly up to five miles foraging for their favorite flowers and could make more than 12 trips a day.

210 YEARS AGO

from the noteworthy

Community Action Month Reinforces Agency Import

Each May, Community Action agencies across the United States celebrate Community Action Month. For 59 years, this network of dedicated employees, board members, and volunteers have advocated, counseled, encouraged, and educated low-income individuals and families in a collaborative effort to strive for self-sufficiency and economic independence.

As a Community Action agency here in Otsego County, Opportunities for Otsego Inc. is proud to join our fellow agencies around the country to recognize the accomplishments and acknowledge the challenges ahead.

Opportunities for Otsego Inc. opened its doors on July 11, 1966 in the basement of the Otsego County Courthouse in Cooperstown. Its first executive director, Alva Welch, laid the groundwork to begin building the agency. In 1967, Operation Head Start (now known simply as Head Start) began working with children and their families under the direction of Esther Fink. Later, women, infants and children, and weatherization services became available for Otsego County residents who qualified.

Opportunities for Otsego Inc.

is proud of its history of meeting the needs of low income and disenfranchised people by creating partnerships that strengthen communities while empowering individuals and families to achieve independence and enrich their quality of life. Opportunities for Otsego Inc. is a proud member of the National Community Action Partnership and a network of more than 1,000 Community Action agencies nationwide that were born out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Community Action agencies across the country connect millions of children, families, and individuals to greater opportunity and guide them on a path toward financial stability.

Years ago, a national leader in Community Action said: “The challenges we face today will be minuscule to the challenges we will face tomorrow.” Providing services in a post-pandemic environment is proof of that in communities across the country.

[The Essay on the Bilious Epidemic Fever can still be read in the digital collections of the National Library of Medicine: collections.nlm.nih.gov/catalog/nlm:nlmuid-2578022R-bk] May 8, 1813

185 YEARS AGO

The Cherry Valley Gazette announces that the Central Bank at Cherry Valley resumed payment of specie upon its liabilities on the day previous. (Ed. Note: The banking crisis of 18371838 resulted from the issuing of private currency, or specie, by banking interests that had insufficient resources to redeem the notes) The Banks of New England, that intend ever to resume, will soon follow the example of the New York and Boston banks. This general resumption at the North, made effective by the vivifying influence upon the country of a return to the sober pursuits of industry, will cause a speedy return of confidence in every department of business. It may be relied upon with certainty, that business will resume its former activity just as rapidly as the productive interests of the country shall furnish for it a solid basis to act upon. As a nation, and as individuals, we have for the year past, been in debt more than we have had the means to pay. Now, you might as well attempt to tame the hyena as to repress the animation and activity which will at once pervade every department of business.

May 7, 1838

160 YEARS AGO

Local—The Railroad Meeting, held in this village on Saturday evening last, was well attended, considerable interest on the subject. The general impression and feeling is that Cooperstown will not long be without a railroad; but the village cannot be expected to do the whole work. Other towns must aid, and if possible, established companies must be made interested in the work. A road from here to the Central, or the Susquehanna, would be a valuable feeder.

May 8, 1863

135 YEARS AGO

Local—Mr. Shaw—It is quite a number of years since that famous game of old-fashioned baseball was played in Cooperstown. Why not try it over again, between the two parties to the “railroad war”? It would afford amusement and diversity, and help restore general good feeling. (Ed. Note: The famous game of old-fashioned baseball referred to above took place in mid-August 1877 using the rules of Town Ball rather than the New York Knickerbocker rules)

“The village of Cooperstown,” says Mr. Cooper in his Chronicles, “dates properly from 1788 for while the idea of a town is earlier, it was not systematically planned until the summer of 1788. The name of Cooperstown appears in one or two newspapers as early as 1786. A village map was made by Wm. Ellison, dated September 26, 1788.”

May 11, 1888

110 YEARS AGO

Ah Choy, our Chinaman, has sold out his laundry business and expects to leave soon for his native country. He says, however, that he is only going to make a visit to his relatives there and will be back to Cooperstown within a year or two. Choy came here from San Francisco fifteen or sixteen years ago and is a very popular citizen of the place. He is honest, courteous and generous. He shed his pigtail several years ago and adopted the American style of dress. The purchasers of the laundry are each named Harry Chu. There are two of them. One of them is the little fellow who has been employed by Ah Choy for some time. The other came from New York on Monday. They are cousins, both members of the Chu family. May 14, 1913

In 1980, Opportunities for Otsego Inc. moved its offices to 32 Main Street in Oneonta under Opportunities for Otsego’s second executive director, William Harper. And finally built its current facility, at 3 West Broadway in Oneonta, which opened its doors in 1992.

Opportunities for Otsego’s third executive director, Cheri Albrecht, not only was responsible for developing our current facility, but led in the development of several key components at OFO during her tenure. Under her leadership the homeless shelter, domestic violence safe house, the Violence Intervention Program, Early Head Start and Building Healthy Families began to assist underserved families in Otsego County.

By MERL REAGLE

Each May, during Community Action Month, we reflect on the impact that Opportunities for Otsego Inc. and our network has on families in our area. By working with local governments, law enforcement, elected public officials, school systems, and community organizations, we have been able to create and maintain programs and strategies to help those in need.

Let’s close with the Community Action Promise: “Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.”

Dan Maskin is chief executive officer of Opportunities for Otsego Inc.

Compiled by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART with resources courtesy of

LOCALS: PEOPLE & BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS

for at least 12 computable credit hours and earning a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher at the end of Term I or Term II are placed on the Dean’s List at the college.

TOP TUTOR: Keely Higgins of Otego is one of six peer tutors who earned the National Tutor Association Level 1 Certification this academic year through SUNY Oneonta’s Student Learning Center. Higgins has not declared a major as yet. Tutors have completed the courses for which they are tutoring at SUNY Oneonta and have received a B+ or better in the course. All tutors complete a two-hour training workshop before working with tutees, and they complete additional training throughout the time they work at SLC. Effective fall 2023, all newly-hired tutors are working toward completing National Tutoring Association basic level certification.

an invitation-only reception Friday, April 21, on campus. In order to earn an invitation to the 2023 recognition, students had to earn a B or above in a sustainability-focused or two sustainability-related courses, attended six sustainabilitythemed events and participated in at least one sustainability leadership activity by April 21. The reception was one of the culminating events of SUNY Oneonta’s annual Green Dragon Week, which showcases the campus’s commitment to sustainability through a variety of events and activities and celebrates Earth Day.

Photo provided

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Bassett Healthcare Network has presented two employees with the first Spotlight On Excellence Annual Award. Physician Assistant Chelsea Doig was named Practitioner of the Year on march 17 at the school-based health conference hosted by Bassett. Doig began at Bassett in 2016 as an emergency room technician at O’Connor Hospital while she completed her education to become a physician assistant. In April of 2021, Doig became a PA at the Walton Health Center. She has since transitioned to working at the Delaware Academy School-Based Health Center in Delhi. “She is an incredibly hard worker who helps her patients achieve their best health,” said one nominating colleague. “She has compassion that I have never seen before in a provider,” said another. Dr. Valerie Bush was presented with the Caregiver of the Year award on march 29. Dr. Bush joined Bassett in 2004 as Bassett medical Center’s Clinical Laboratory Director. Dr. Bush’s role has since expanded, and she now serves as the Lab Director for both O’Connor Hospital in Delhi and A.O. Fox Hospital Tri-Town Emergency Department in Sidney. She received her award at a surprise ceremony in Cooperstown with colleagues joining in virtually from all over the network. Her colleagues praised her leadership as a rare combination of knowledge, enthusiasm, innovation, and responsiveness to others. “She is the yardstick by which we all measure ourselves,” said one nominator. “Dr. Valerie Bush and Chelsea Doig are remarkable caregivers,” said Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, Bassett president and chief operating officer. “They stand out as an inspiration and example for us all. Valerie and Chelsea are representative of countless others at Bassett dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others. I am proud they are my coworkers and grateful they are serving our community.” The Caregiver of the Year and Practitioner of the Year awards are part of a network-wide Spotlight on Excellence award program. This program recognizes Bassett employees who embody Bassett’s core values of courage, unity, and excellence. The program also presents quarterly awards throughout the year. Pictured above are Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, president and CEO, Bassett Healthcare Network; Chelsea Doig, PA, Delaware Academy School-Based Health Center; and Dr. monica Brané, chief of pediatrics, Bassett Healthcare Network.

TECH TRIBUTE: On Thursday, April 21, five Schenevus Central School students were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at the ONC BOCES Otsego Area Occupational Center in milford. Congratulations to Jonathan Deitchman (New Visions engineering), Samantha Osborne (New Visions healthcare), mehki Regg (welding), Cameron Rogers (building trades) and Ben Schecter, (mechatronics).

MEDICAL MATCH: Charles Leahy of Otego was among the 141 Northeast Ohio medical University College of medicine students to learn their medical residency match during a celebration for National Residency match Day held march 17 in the NEW Center Ballroom. Leahy learned they will be serving an Internal medicine residency at the University of Rochester’s Strong memorial Hospital. Leahy is currently a fourth-year medicine student at NEOmED, located in Rootstown, Ohio, and will move on to their residency following graduation this spring. A Commencement celebration will be held on Saturday, may 6. The residency match is a culmination of four years of hard work and dedication to train to become a physician and transformative leader in the field of medicine.

HONOR SOCIETY HONORS: Sierra Snell of New Berlin was among top-performing SUNY Delhi students inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma honor society in a recognition ceremony on campus this month. Phi Eta Sigma is the third oldest university honor society in the U.S. Its mission is to award students for achieving high scholastic performance during their first year in the baccalaureate programs. SUNY Delhi students must achieve a cumulative GPA 3.50 and maintain full-time enrollment in a four-year program to be invited into the society. Addressing the inductees during the event, SUNY Delhi Provost Thomas Jordan said, “Ordinary people do ordinary things, and that is fine. However, individuals like you have decided to do a little extra and stand out. That makes you extraordinary! Congratulations to you all!”

DYNAMIC DELHI DUO: Top-performing SUNY Delhi students—including Cael Howland of Oneonta and Caleb Backus of Unadilla—were inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society in a recognition ceremony on campus earlier this month. Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society of two-year colleges and academic programs. To be eligible for membership, a student must have completed at least 12 hours of associate degree coursework with a cumulative 3.5 GPA.

OH, BABY! Lila Rochelle

meditrina Henrici was born at 12:01 a.m. on may 1—also her mother’s birthday. She is 7 pounds, 2 ounces and 19 inches. She is healthy and happy. Congratulations to parents Danielle and michael, big brother Dash, and big sister Vivi. Welcome to the world, Baby Lila!

DEAN’S LIST DIVA: maya

Powers of Worcester was named to the Elmira College Dean’s List for the Winter 2023 Term. Full-time undergraduate students registered

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS: Aliyah Abdelsalam of Oneonta was among 10 students who earned diversity awards as part of the Kente Graduation Recognition Ceremony at SUNY Oneonta. The ceremony took place on campus in the Alumni Field House on April 27. Sponsored by the university’s Department of Africana/Latino Studies and Center for Racial Justice and Inclusive Excellence, the annual ceremony recognizes the achievements of SUNY Onenta’s Diverse student population of African American, Latinx, Asian, and Native American and non-AALANA students and allies. Abdelsalam was awarded the Leadership and Courage Award and is graduating this spring with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics. Abdelsalam was also among the group of six SUNY Oneonta students to win the highest possible honor at the 2023 National model United Nations conference in New York City from April 10-14. SUNY Oneonta students represented Cambodia this year, and they were one of just 24 delegations to receive the Outstanding Delegation Award. “There were a couple of unusual instances at the model UN where students from other universities became swept up in the bargaining and competitiveness, leading to arguments and highly escalated tempers,” said matt murphy, associate professor of international relations and comparative politics and the model UN course instructor. “Our students were consistently pushing for diplomacy and reasonable discussion. I believe that’s one of the reasons we were recognized for Outstanding Delegation.”

LANG LAUDED: Robert C.

“Bobby” Lang of Schoharie is one of three SUNY Oneonta students to receive the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. According to a press release issued by SUNY Oneonta, Lang—who is majoring in business economics—is a standout student whose academic accomplishments, leadership, campus involvement and community service are impressive. He is a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Society and was awarded the Susan Sutton Smith Award for Academic Excellence in 2019 and the Richard Siegfried Student Award for Academic Excellence in 2020. He has presented his research at Student Research and Creative Activity Day on campus as well as at the American marketing Association International Collegiate Conference. Bobby is an active member of the marketing Club. As vice president of finance for the SUNY Oneonta Student Association, Lang oversaw a $1.3 million budget allocated over 120 clubs and organizations, served as a Student Association senator, and was part of the SA COVID Task Force, SA Finance Board and the SA Senate Development Committee. He was nominated to join the College Foundation Board as an Honorary Director and, then, as a voting Student Director. Lang serves on the Foundation Board’s Finance Committee and the Board Development and Governance Committee.

SHINING EXAMPLE: Olivia

O’Donnell of Oneonta was recently recognized with a silver-level leadership milestone through SUNY Oneonta’s Leadership Education and Development program.

O’Donnell is studying adolescence education: earth science at SUNY Oneonta. Completion of this level requires attending 19 events designated with a learning outcome (three must be diversity events), actively participating in four recognized organizations, completing three online courses (Foundations of Leadership, Personal Development, Organizational Development), and serving as an officer in a club or organization for at least two semesters (average of 219 hours to complete). LEAD@Oneonta is a comprehensive leadership program based on current research and guidelines from the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education. Students can attain a silver, gold or platinum level. To attain each level, students must meet a mix of programmatic and experiential leadership requirements, including completion of online courses, attendance at educational events, and membership and leadership in one or more of SUNY Oneonta’s 100+ student-run clubs and organizations.

NEW HIRE: Hannah mitchell has joined Visions Federal Credit Unit as community development manager. In her new role, mitchell will lead the Visions Cares team, which plans and executes Visions’ philanthropic programs and charitable giving. “I’m honored to be part of the Visions Cares program and foster deeper connections in our communities,” says mitchell. “We’re poised to make a tremendous impact toward a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future by working with local leaders, businesses, and organizations.” In her free time, mitchell enjoys spending time with family, diving, hiking, and lending a helping hand. mitchell also volunteers with autism advocacy groups, Vestal Central School District, Boy Scouts of America and veteran organizations.

GREEN DRAGONS: Ecaterina Pervu of Oneonta and Christopher Ogden of West Oneonta were among 25 SUNY Oneonta students honored for their dedication to sustainability efforts on campus, thanks to the new Green Dragon Recognition Program. The program, organized by the Office of Sustainability, seeks to celebrate and recognize students who have shown a commitment to sustainability during their time at SUNY Oneonta. Honorees were recognized during

DEAN’S LIST DESIGNEE: Autumn Nealis of Oneonta has been named to St. Lawrence University’s Dean’s List for achieving academic excellence during the Fall 2022 semester. Nealis, who attended Oneonta High School, is a member of the Class of 2025. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a student must have completed at least four courses and have an academic average of 3.6 based on a 4.0 scale for the semester.

TAPPED FOR TAU SIGMA: Thirty-five SUNY Oneonta students were inducted into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society for the 2022-23 academic year on April 14, 2023, including Charles Hobbib, Samantha Lyons and Christopher Solano, all of Oneonta. Tau Sigma is designed exclusively for transfer students. The mission of the organization is to recognize and promote the academic excellence and involvement of transfer students. The minimum academic average required for membership is either a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent thereof) or an academic average that places the prospective candidate in the top 20 percent of all incoming transfer students during their incoming semester.

TRI-ALPHA ACHIEVEMENT: Oneonta residents Felicia Gonzalez, Samantha Lyons, Diana moller and Christopher Solano were among 69 first-generation SUNY Oneonta students inducted into the Alpha Alpha Alpha national honor society during a ceremony on April 23, 2023 at morris Hall. Alpha Alpha Alpha, known as Tri-Alpha for short, was founded in 2018 to recognize and celebrate the hard work and academic success of first-generation university students. Students qualify for induction into Tri-Alpha if they meet the following criteria: The student has earned at least 30 credits/semester hours in the academic year toward an associate degree or baccalaureate degree; the undergraduate student has achieved an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale; and neither of the student’s parents, stepparents, nor legal guardians, completed a bachelor’s or associate’s degree.

AIRMAN ACCOLADES: Beau Shively of West Edmeston, assigned to the 224th Support Squadron of the New York Air National Guard’s Eastern Air Defense Sector, received a promotion on February 26 to the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Air National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability and development potential. These promotions additionally recognize the best qualified airmen and attract and retain the highest caliber citizen airmen for careers in the New York Air National Guard and the Eastern Air Defense Sector. The Eastern Air Defense Sector is made up of the 224th Air Defense Group, which provides the forces to conduct the mission. Part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Sector is responsible for the air defense of the eastern U.S. The 224th Air Defense Group is composed of the 224th Air Defense Squadron and the 224th Support Squadron, located in Rome, and Detachment 1 and Detachment 2 that serve in the Washington, D.C. area.

WETLANDS WORKER: Ethan Chichester of Richmondville was one of 12 SUNY Oneonta students who got hands-on experience with wetlands restoration during a service-learning trip in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward in march. Working with a nonprofit organization called Common Ground Relief, the students helped to restore and preserve Louisiana’s disappearing coastal wetlands by planting hardy, fast-growing native plants and removing invasive species in coastal areas imperiled by hurricanes, development and engineering projects that have eroded land and endangered wildlife. Chichester is studying adolescence education: social studies at SUNY Oneonta. Using recycled Christmas trees and tallow trees, the team built berms to help prevent erosion and stabilize newly planted vegetation, worked in a native tree nursery, visited Common Ground’s Outdoor Learning Center, helped out with various projects at Docville Farm and learned about cultural complexities, the role of physical landscapes and environmental issues in the region. The New Orleans trip is a component of Disaster Geographies, a course taught by Associate Professor Wendy Lascell, who accompanied the students, along with Linda Drake, executive director of the college’s Center for Social Responsibility and Community. Lascell has taken several groups of students to New Orleans, including Class of 2020 alumna Amy Shultis, who now works for the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. Shultis met up with students while they were in town. Service-learning trips such as this one give students an invaluable experience for both academic and personal growth, Lascell said. They are engaged in service, immersed in an unfamiliar culture, and confronted with real-world problems that don’t have easy solutions. “One of my favorite parts of the trip was the human connection and the emotional attachment to the rebuilding of coastlines and rebuilding from previous hurricanes by the community,” Chichester said. “I found this to be the most impactful for me in terms of putting the work we were doing into perspective. The community greatly appreciated it.” Lascell is pictured in below in the forefront, as students take a break in New Orleans. Chichester is in the row behind her, third from the left.

Photo provided Rob ER t C. L AN g

Photo provided o LIVIA o ’D o NNELL

Photo provided

SPORTS SNIPPETS COMPILEd by WRILEy NELSON

CCS Athletic Hall of Fame Names 2023 Inductees

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Central School named four student-athletes, a coach and three teams to its Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023. Josh Edmonds, Phil Pohl, Alec Silvera, Jen Wehner, Coach Connie Herzig, the 2005 boys cross-country team, the 2007-2008 girls basketball team and the 2008-2009 volleyball team will be inducted at a homecoming weekend ceremony on September 30. There will be a ceremony at 5 p.m. in the high school’s Sterling Auditorium. The inductees will also be honored at halftime of the homecoming football game, which begins at 7 p.m. Each of these individuals and teams are athletic legends in the Cooperstown community.

Pathfinder Offers 10th Splash Path 5K, Fun Walk

EDmESTON—Pathfinder Village will host its 10th annual Splash Path 5K and fun walk on may 20. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. and the race begins at 10. It is a rain or shine event and features non-toxic colors. “Splash Path is a lively, inclusive event that celebrates community. We welcome families, groups, teams—walkers and runners of all ages and abilities,” said Splash Path Chair monica Clark. “After your 5K, enjoy our post-race festival with live music, food trucks, craft and vendor exhibits, and a ticket auction.” Pathfinder Village is a livable community and service provider for those with Down syndrome and other disabilities. For more information or to register, visit https:// raceroster.com/events/2023/73122/splash-path-2023.

Clinton Canoe Regatta Set for May 26-28

BAINBRIDGE—The 61st annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta will take place on may 26, 27 and 28. most attractions and the finish line for all events will be at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge. The 70-mile race on Sunday, may 28 is the longest one-day flat water canoe race in North America. It begins at Brookwood Point just north of the Village of Cooperstown. Friday night will feature the generation gap races, live music, and local food and beverage tastings. Saturday will have kids’ races, wrestling, tractor pulls, hot air balloon rides, comedy shows and much, much more. For more information or to register, visit https://www.canoeregatta.org/.

Oneonta’s Buzzy Commits to Penn Tech College

ONEONTA—Oneonta High School soccer star Dakoda Buzzy has committed to the Pennsylvania College of Technology men’s soccer program, he announced on Twitter on may 2. Buzzy will major in residential construction technology and management.

Red Dragons Named SUNYAC Athletes of the Week

ONEONTA—Two SUNY Oneonta students were named State University of New York Athletic Conference Athlete of the Week in their respective sports for the week of April 24. Senior Nate Guillen took the honors for baseball after a week with five hits and a .455 batting average. He also recorded a perfect 1.000 fielding weekend. Junior Isabella Fabrizio, ranked 15th in the nation and first in SUNYAC in women’s shot put, was named women’s track athlete of the week. She placed second in shot put at the Cortland Classic and took third place in the hammer throw with a personal best of 47.93m.

Coop Tennis Ties for First Place in CSC Tournament

UTICA—Cooperstown Central School tennis tied Sauquoit for first place in the Center State Conference tournament on may 2. Both teams finished with 39 points. First singles Gunter Weldon defeated Bryan DeGeronimo (Sauquoit) 10-0 in the finals. According to varsity coach Amy Porter, Weldon has not lost a game this season. In first doubles, seventh-grader Henry Ayers and French exchange student Albert Caulier defeated Sauquoit 10-2. Second doubles team Alexis Wolfe and Charlie Lambert overcame a 9-4 deficit to beat Sauquoit 10-9 in a final tiebreaker. Second singles Natalie Hanson lost a hard-fought match to Quincy Stayton (Sauquoit) 10-2 in the finals.

“We had a very large turnout this year,” Porter said. “We have 18 on our roster, and half of them are new to tennis. I’m very impressed with how much work everyone is putting in, even on the weekends outside of practice.”

“We’re undefeated so far and have a lot left to play,” she concluded.

Morris/Edmeston Boys, Girls Defeat Schenevus

mORRIS—The morris/Edmeston baseball team defeated Schenevus 12-4 at home on may 2. Gavin mcEnroe hit a home run for m/E. mehki Regg led Schenevus offensively, going 3-for-4 with a triple. m/E softball also beat Schenevus, 5-2, at Cooperstown AllStar Village in Oneonta. Hannah Wist struck out seven batters in the circle for m/E and also hit a double and an RBI.

Alice Marie Sloan 1939-2023

ONEONTA—Alice marie

Sloan, 84, of Oneonta passed away on April 17, 2023 at Chestnut Park Nursing Home.

Alice was born on February 22, 1939 to Ray and Anna (Pickett) Dean, the youngest of 11 children.

She attended masonville Elementary School, Sidney Central High School, then went on to earn a degree in business through Syracuse University.

During her life, Alice worked for NYSEG, Corning, helped to create the Delaware County Best Program, participated with federal and county elections, assisted with the Census in Otsego County, and was a mentor/provider for adult education and job skills.

Alice was loving, strong, independent and enjoyed laughing. She was a member of the Eastern Star, and West Oneonta Baptist Church where she enjoyed partici-

mayor Launches Welcome Initiative

COOPERSTOWN—“Welcome Home Cooperstown,” a new initiative from Cooperstown mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, kicked off on Tuesday, may 2 at the Village Hall. The goal of the series of monthly meet and greets is to welcome area newcomers, assist them in building connections to established residents and institutions, and encourage them to make Cooperstown their permanent home. Information about community events will be available and refreshments will be served. All members of the community are invited, including those new to the area as well as longtime residents who would like to meet

and welcome others. In general, events will take place on the first Tuesday of each month moving forward—June 6, July 11, August 1, September 5, October 3, November 7 and December 5—at the Village Hall at 22 main Street. members of the “Welcome Home Cooperstown” committee include interested citizens and representatives from Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown Central School, and the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce, with support from the Friends of the Village Library. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate in the work of building a stronger, more diverse, and welcoming community.

Carnival Committee Begins Planning

COOPERSTOWN—Sunshine and warm weather has returned, but planning is already underway for the 2024 Cooperstown Winter Carnival. The planning committee met on Saturday, April 15. most 2023 members returned, joined by several new volunteers, and committee members will be reaching out to last year’s carnival participants in the coming weeks. meanwhile, the date for next year’s event has been set for February 1-4 and designation of the first weekend

OBITUARIES

and most of all spending time with her family. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was always looking for her next adventure with family and friends.

Ballard of Oneonta, Barbara and George Stohr of Oneonta, Nancy Sloan of Florida, Louise Dean of Cicero, and Thelma Dean of Afton.

of February as the permanent date of the carnival was discussed. The committee will be brainstorming ideas for the theme of the 2024 carnival as well as designs for buttons, pins, and stickers and, this autumn, the carnival website—CooperstownWinterCarni val.com—will be redesigned for easier navigation. Those wishing to contact the Winter Carnival Committee can do so via the carnival’s Facebook page or at cooperstownwintercarnival@gmail.com.

pating in Sunday school, vacation bible school, Awana, and attending church functions. Alice was always busy and enjoyed volunteering around the holidays, traveling and shopping with her friends, socializing, cooking, gardening, reading, doing crafts, helping others,

She is survived by her son, michael (Charlyn) Corgan of Chenango Forks, daughter Cindy (Robert) Behnke of Otego, son Brian (Jennifer) Corgan of Norwich, stepson Eric (Sara) Sloan of Liverpool, and stepson Christopher Sloan of Oneonta. Alice had 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and she was a surrogate grandma to many more.

She is also survived by her in-laws, Bruce and Jane Sloan of Oneonta, Janice

Alice married her true love, Robert D. Sloan, on October 23, 1981, and was predeceased by her husband in 2012. She was also predeceased by her parents, her brothers and sisters, several in-laws, and some nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on June 10, 2023 at the West Oneonta Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helios Care and Chestnut Park Nursing Home.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bookhoutfh.com for the Sloan family.

Grandma loved her farm, her family, and playing her old guitar.

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home will take the time to find out what made your loved one special. Whether it’s finding just the right flowers, or finding a musician to play her favorite tunes on her old guitar, we’ll do what’s necessary to make her service as unique as she was.

Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home 14 Grand Street, Oneonta • 607-432-6821 www.grummonsfuneralhome.com

Funeral Home

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

Dignified and Caring Service since 1925 Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings. Peter A. Deysenroth 82 Chestnut Street, Cooperstown | 607-547-8231 www.cooperstownfuneralhome.com

Photo provided ALICE MARIE SLOAN

“Nothing can ever take away a love the heart holds dear.”

Photo provided

Approximately 50 people were on hand for Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh’s first “Welcome Home Cooperstown” event on May 2 at the Village Hall.

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a license, Number 2237156 for Beer, Cider, Liquor and/or Wine has been applied for by monthang, LLC dba Norbu to sell Beer, Cider, Liquor and/or Wine, at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 149 main Street, Village of Cooperstown, County of Otsego, State of New York for on premises consumption.

monthang, LLC dba Norbu

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearing in the Village Office Building, 22 main Street, Cooperstown, New York on monday, may 22, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as can be heard, to discuss the following:

Proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2023

– Amend Local Law No. 4 of 2017 and Vehicle and Traffic Regulations (Section 240-13) – for Fish Road parking regulations to limit boat trailer parking.

Any resident of the Village of Cooperstown is entitled to be heard upon said local law at such public hearing. Disabled citizens, who require assistance in attending said public hearing, or in furnishing comments or suggestions, should contact the Village Clerk to request assistance. Copies of the proposed laws are available for inspection at the Village Clerk’s office, 22 main Street, Cooperstown, New York during normal business hours monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dated: may 5, 2023

By order of the Village Board Village of Cooperstown

Jenna L. Utter Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 (607) 547-2411 (phone)

jutter@cooperstownny.org

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF COLLECTION OF VILLAGE TAXES VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN

PLEASE TAKE

NOTICE, That the Village of Cooperstown, New

York have received the tax roll and warrant for the collection of the General Village Tax of the Village of Cooperstown for the fiscal year beginning June 1, 2023 and ending may 31, 2024. Taxes will be collected in two equal installments by mailing to the Village Treasurer’s Office, Village of Cooperstown, 22 main Street, Cooperstown, N. Y. or may be paid online at www. cooperstownny.org under the payment tab at the top of the page from June 1, 2023 and by November 3, 2023 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The first installment to be collected from June 1, 2023 to and including Friday, June 30, 2023 without additional charges.

TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that on the first installment of all such taxes remaining unpaid on July 1, 2023 (5%) five percent will be added for the first month and an additional (1%) one percent for each month and fraction thereafter, until paid or returned to Otsego County Treasurer.

VILLAGE TREASURER VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN 22 mAIN STREET, PO BOX 346 VILLAGE OF COOPERSTOWN, N. Y.

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LegaL nOtice SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO

SUMMONS: SPECIAL PROCEEDING TO QUIET TITLE

Index Number:

EF2023-61

In the matter of the Application of DESTINY OAKLEY, Individually and as Administrator of the ESTATE OF ALAN A. mILLER, Plaintiff, -againstTHE ESTATE OF ROBERT W. mARTENSON, KIRK ALAN mARTENSON, PENNY ELIZABETH SANTY, CATHLEEN SUE mARTENSON, DOUGLAS STIRLING mARTENSON, WAYNE WILEY mARTENSON, ASSOCIATED COmPUTER PRODUCTS, INC. JOHN DOE, UNKNOWN SHAREHOLDER OF ASSOCIATED COmPUTER PRODUCTS, INC., JOHN DOE #2, HEIRS AND ASSIGNED OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT W. mARTEN-

SON, ET. AL.

And any other person or entities found to have an interest in the property subject to this action but not yet named. Defendants.

TO THE ABOVE NAmED DEFEN-

DANTS:

You are hereby summoned to appear in this action by serving a notice of appearance on the plaintiffs attorney within thirty (30) days after service of this summons is complete, and in case of your failure to appear, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint filed herein.

The object of this action is an Article 15 proceeding under the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law to determine claims to real property.

The properties in question are situate at 7348 State Highway 28, in the Town of Exeter, County of Otsego, and State of New York, currently identified on the Otsego County Real Property Tax maps as No. 67.09-1-38.00 and No. 67.09-139.22.

Dated: 30 march 2023

SCHLATHER & BIRCH PLLC Attorneys for Plaintiff

By:

Lauren Cady

Glynn, Esq. 192 main Street PO Box 391 Cooperstown NY 13326 (607) 547-5253 4Legalmay.11

LegaL nOtice NOTICE OF FORMULATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: BRETT JOHNSON CONSTRUCTION LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on march 5th, 2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 230 murdock Rd. Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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LegaL nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: Uncommon Threads LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 16 April 2023.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC, 158 Camp Rd, New Berlin, NY 13411.

Purpose: any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 114 WOODVIEW LLC, filed with the Secretary of State on 04/25/2023.

Principal Business and Office Location: 211 main Street, Cooperstown, N.Y. 13326, Otsego County, N.Y.

The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail process to 211 main Street, Cooperstown, N.Y. 13326.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Pufftopia, LLC.

Filed 4/20/23.

Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 5381 St Hwy 7, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Work of Art Construction LLC.

Filed 3/29/23.

Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 4276 St Hwy 28 S, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC).

Name: Silver Creek Contracting LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was march 10, 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to c/o Erik Beckley 24 Ceperley ave, Oneonta, New York, 13820.

Purpose: To engage in any and all business for which LLCs

may be formed under the New York LLC Law.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF GLEASON mOUNTAIN LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 4/27/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 434 Berry Hollow Rd., Schenevus, NY 12155, which is also the principal business location.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF ZBeck’s Family Ranch LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04-192023.

Office: Otsego County. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228.

Purpose: all lawfu.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Rose Property Services LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/23/2023. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1080 mill Creek Road, Otego NY 13825 Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SOUTHSIDE VETERINARY CLINIC PLLC

Filed 3/31/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 2353 Swart Hollow Rd, Oneonta, NY 13820

Purpose: Veterinary medicine

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 141 IRISH HOLLOW ROAD LLC

Filed 2/15/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 127 Irish Hollow Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJun.01

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 121 IRISH HOLLOW ROAD LLC

Filed 2/15/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 127 Irish Hollow Road, Cherry Valley, NY 13320

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJun.01

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 207 FISH AND GAmE ROAD LLC

Filed 2/15/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 127 Irish Hollow Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJun.01

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 4463 US RT 20 LLC

Filed 2/15/23

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 127 Irish Hollow Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320

Purpose: all lawful 6LegalJun.01

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Good Kitty LLC

Filed 10/17/22

Office: Otsego Co.

SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to 29 Pioneer St, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Purpose: all lawful 6Legalmay.25

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 87 Limber Pine LLC

Filed 10/17/22

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to 29 Pioneer St, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Purpose: all lawful 6Legalmay.25

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF RUSSO RENTALS LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/17/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 5 Parish Ave., Oneonta, NY 13820, which is also the principal business location.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6Legalmay.25

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF NARROW GATE LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 4/10/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 49 main St., Schenevus, NY 12155, which is also the principal business location.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 6Legalmay.25

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF SWEETS & CRAFTY CREATIONS LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed 03/11/2023. Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: 559 Saunders Gulf Rd. West Winfield, NY 13491.

Purpose: Any lawful 6Legalmay.18

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY UNDER NEW YORK PROFESSIONAL SERVICE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY LAW (“LLCL”)

1. The name of the professional service limited liability company (“LLC”) is Connect Physical Therapy of NY, PLLC.

2. The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State is march 21, 2023

3. The County within the State of New York in which the principal office of the professional service LLC is to be located is Otsego County.

4. The Secretary of State of the State of New York is hereby designated as agent of the professional service LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the professional service LLC served upon him or her is: 107 Winney Hill Rd #5B, Oneonta, NY 13820.

5. The character or purpose of the business of the professional service LLC is any purpose allowed by law.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Upstate machinery Service, LLC.

Filed 1/31/23.

Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail POB 203, Cherry Valley, NY 13320. Purp: any lawful.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

Name: THE LUSK BARN LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 30 march 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 507 Cty Hwy 50, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: DOUBLE R SOLUTIONS LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 30 march 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 308 mcShane Rd, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name:

7 OLD mAIDEN LANE, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 31 march 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 108, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name:

6 OLD mAIDEN LANE, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 31 march 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to PO Box 108, Fly Creek, NY 13337. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A NY LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name:

LINDENWOODNS LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 31 march 2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail copy of process to 473 County Highway 40, Worcester, NY 12197.

Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Bass Auto & machine Works, LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/25/2023.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 117 Buck Road, Fly Creek, NY 13337.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF CAPS OFF LLC.

Filed 2/6/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: c/o matthew F Lorusso, 3522 County Hwy 11, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose: General. 6Legalmay.11

Letters

Fortunately, we know how to reduce the inflow of fertilizer into the lake. Septic systems have to be modified to reduce their output of nitrogen and phosphorus. Septic tanks that are currently compliant with state law do not remove nitrogen and phosphorus, so this may require a new, higher standard for septic tanks in the watershed. Fertilizer runoff from farms and golf courses will have to be reduced. Together, we can mitigate the problem, which will enable us to spend less time and effort on messaging and monitoring.

There are two bills before the current legislative session calling for simple, effective solutions: The Bigger Better Bottle Bill (S227/A6353) and the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (S4246/A5322).

bill transfers the responsibility for managing packaging waste from taxpayers to producers and manufacturers, providing them with a financial incentive to use alternative packaging.

Band played and there were many NAVY ROTC students lined up as honor guards. A number of Naval Academy and merchant marine cadets were in attendance.

Chip Northrup Cooperstown

Why Is Maestro Leaving CSO?

The last Catskill Symphony Orchestra performance conducted by maestro maciej Żóltowski will be held on Saturday, may 13 in Oneonta. The question being asked by many attendees, sponsors and members is why his contract has not been renewed. The CSO has had nothing but praise for him in the local papers and yet they did not poll the musicians or CSO members regarding the board’s decision not to renew his contract. The only reason offered was that CSO would be taking a “new direction.”

Why weren’t key stakeholders’ opinions considered on whether he should remain as music director of the CSO and whether they desired a new direction for the orchestra?

Maestro Żóltowski has brought new life to the CSO and a high standard of music and excellence to the performances. He has received praise from those who attended his concerts and yet the CSO board is not interested in retaining this outstanding skill to ensure their future. Certainly, no articulated reason has been given to those of us who attend, sponsor and contribute to the CSO.

Delores Rothwell Oneonta

Bills Would Help Environment

While “Earth Day” has officially passed, let us not forget that every day is Earth Day. The New York State Assembly has an historic opportunity to take meaningful action in dealing with both our growing plastic pollution crisis and the everworsening climate crisis.

The Bigger Better Bottle Bill would raise the deposit on cans and bottles to 10 cents, marking the first increase in more than 40 years, when the first bottle bill was put into law. Higher deposits mean more incentive for people to recycle and a badly-needed “pay raise” for the many low-income New Yorkers who depend on the redeemable deposits of empty bottles and cans.

Equally important, it would expandcoveragetoallbeverage containers, including iced tea, sports drinks, and wine and liquor bottles. Bottle bills are a proven strategy for reducing litter—over 70 percent since being introduced in the early 1980s—and expansion will reduce the number of beverage containers needlessly ending up in landfills by an additional 15 percent. The environmental nonprofit ReLoop estimates that expanding the law would save New York’s municipalities $70.9 million annually through waste diversion, recycling an additional 5 billion beverage containers a year.

What’s more in this winwin equation is that the technology and infrastructure for redeeming glass and other beverage containers already exist, easing the burden on retail and grocery stores and redemption facilities. In short, the Bigger Better Bottle Bill hits all the sweet spots statewide: It creates jobs and revenue, improves quality of life (fewer broken liquor bottles littering parks and playgrounds) and helps in the fight against climate change.

Kudos to Senator Rachel may and Assemblymember Deborah Glick for introducing and sponsoring this long overdue upgrade to the 1982 Bottle Bill.

The Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, introduced by Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Glick, calls for a 50 percent packaging reduction over 12 years, establishes environmental standards for packaging and, critically, eliminates 12 toxic chemicals from packaging, including PFAS and other known carcinogens. “Chemical” recycling (incineration), also known by the spurious monikers “advanced” and “molecular” recycling, would not count toward recycling goals, as it only makes a bad situation worse. And at long last, this

Continued from page 4 $17/hour starting wage $1500* sign-on bonus

The production, use, and disposal of plastic and other single-use packaging have reached epic proportions; we are literally awash in excess packaging and plastic. By 2030, emissions from plastics—the fracking used to create it, plastic production and incineration—will surpass those from coal-fired power plants in the U.S. microplastics have been found to cross the placental barrier, and by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Take any horrific statistic you like, but ask yourself: How much longer can we afford to choose the “convenience” of plastic, and blindly accept the ubiquitousness of it in our lives? Not a minute longer.

I urge all New York State legislators to co-sponsor and pass these bills this legislative session. Be on the right side of history.

Tracy Roberts

Fly Creek Ceremony Was Spectacular

I was fortunate to be invited by a member of the Cooperstown Board of Trustees to the Commissioning Ceremony for the USS Cooperstown. We drove to New York City Friday in order to attend the early-morning breakfast hosted by the New York Council of the Navy League.

The breakfast was attended by a wide variety of people: various boatbuilding officials, elected officials, New York Navy League members, family members of crew and numerous white-uniformed Navy personnel. Admirals and aides with cords festooned on their shoulders were available to anyone that wanted to talk.

I was fortunate to speak with Carlos Del Toro, secretary of the Navy, Fred Stefarry III, assistant secretary of the Navy for ships, Commander Daxton moore, commanding officer, USS Cooperstown, Commander Patrick Earls, executive officer of the Cooperstown, Vice Admiral John mustin, and other officers and personnel. They were all enthusiastic about the Cooperstown and many had visited with their families on baseball trips.

The Commissioning Ceremony was conducted on a beautiful sunny day at Pier 88 with the brand new USS Cooperstown tied up in front of us. The Navy

Speeches were short. Governor Kathy Hochul spoke about how proud New York was. Secretary Del Toro spoke of his New York City heritage, Joe Torre about his team and teamwork, and our Jane Clark talked about the heritage and stories of the 70 baseball greats that paused or gave up their careers to join up. Players like Ted Williams, Yogi Berra, recipient of two Purple Hearts, and Bob Feller, giving up his high-paid contract to become a Chief Petty Officer, signing up only two days after Pearl Harbor.

At the reception following the ceremony, I was able to talk with the grandson of Yogi and many family members of the officers and crews. many Cooperstown locals were there representing the village, members of the Board of Trustees and the mayor. I was so proud to live in the village that shares the name of this great ship and her crew.

I even had a personal tour of the ship, seeing the Bob Feller Act of Valor award mounted on the bridge and his uniform and bat displayed in a glass case right outside the captain’s office. It is an impressive ship with a top speed of almost 50 miles per hour.

The ship and the people were wonderful, but I would be remiss to not thank Jane Clark. She was instrumental in convincing the former Navy Secretary Ray mabus to honor those 70 Hall of Famers who left baseball to serve. These years later we have a ship named the USS Cooperstown in honor of those 70 and it is greatly due to her efforts. Thank you Jane Clark for all that you have done.

Bill Waller Cooperstown

Off-leash Recall, Socialization in an Entirely New Setting discussed

Dear Tom, Penny is 10 months old and we are again having difficulty with recall. We worked inside and treated successfully, then progressed to outside on a 20-foot lead rope—always treating, always praising—and made good progress until the squirrels showed up with the melting of the snow. I can’t compete with the entertaining lurements of rodents. Now we seem to be in a bad rut. Should I train a new recall word instead of “come”?

Thanks.

Mary

dear mary,

I think you’re off to a good start with Penny’s recalls.Two suggestions: I like to treat on the recall, most of the times, not every time. my experience has led me to feel that Penny may be more responsive if her attitude is “maybe there’s a treat, maybe not, I better go check it out.” Extra praise when there’s no treat. as for the lead rope you mention, it should be attached to a harness, not a collar, so as to avoid a serious injury if she takes off after a squirrel and the rope gets caught on something in mid-run.

One of the basic concepts of teaching the off-leash recall is slowly increasing the intensity of the distraction that the dog ignores and still comes when called. most dogs are predatory. The nine-week-old puppy that chases the blowing leaf is a predatory response. The movement of the leaf elicits the prey drive.

mary, the liklihood of Penny ignoring a running rabbit or squirrel because you changed the recall word is zero. She needs

dancers

Continued from page 1

Inn and the Gilbert Block offers a particularly English ambience for the dancers.

“It’s our theater, our stage. It makes things a little more special. For us to dance here and get the reception that we get, it wells up tears in my eyes,” said Naar.

at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, april 22, about 75 spectators gathered to watch the performance in Gilbertsville. another Saturday appearance included a stop at Edmeston’s Pathfinder Village, an internationally renowned, open-access neighborhood for individuals with down syndrome and developmental disabilities.

“It’s about making people smile and giving back karma,” said Naar of performing at Pathfinder.

The next two stops for the dancers were at Pioneer Park and Red Shed Brewery in Cooperstown.

“about 50 people were there (in the park), mainly tourists, some wearing baseball outfits. We were about

to be taught the “leave it” command. Every dog I work with is confronted with a plate of meat on the floor which she must ignore and walk around when I say “leave it.” That then expands to whatever I want her to keep her nose out of, be it a garbage can, a shoe, or a pizza crust on the sidewalk.

In the great majority of cases, the dog cooperates with the plate of meat on the floor with my voice intonation and a light leash correction. a leash correction is a well timed light snap of the leash coupled with my command, “Leave it!”

When timed properly, Penny will ignore (actually pretend to ignore) the plate of meat in less than two minutes. I will teach her “leave it” when we get together, and then discuss expanding her cooperation to the great outdoors when she’s off leash. One more thing; practice the recall indoors using dog treats and outdoors using people food treats like pieces of hot dog or chicken.

See ya soon. dog Charmer Tom

the only thing happening at the time,” said Naar, who noted a wide range of reactions—from “What’s this?” to “This is cool.”

Sunday saw approximately 50 more people coming to Gilbertsville to watch the dancers’ final performance of this year’s Otsego County stint.

“They’ve been coming here since I was first out of high school. I’ve only missed about five of the last 43 years. It’s one of the things that makes Gilbertsville special,” said village resident June Hueth of the dancers.

“I’m here to watch that girl who dances with them,” joked marcus Villagran, ceramic artist and owner of the dunderberg Gallery on marion avenue.

“I never get enough of the morris dancers. It’s part of the cavalcade of our spring joys. I’ve been working all night on a tile of Bob dylan, and I wanted to come here and see these old guys jump,” continued Villagran, who said he turned 90 this year.

Several spectators referred to the yearly arrival of the morris dancers as a “rite of

spring,” an observation on which Gilbertsville resident T. Sean Herbert elaborated.

“It’s a proud tradition—the first opportunity for everybody to come out and be together…the end of winter,” he said.

Herbert’s son, Liam, had a unique impression of the event.

“It’s like living in the Shire, like Hobbiton,” he said, referring to the fantasy novels of J.R.R. Tolkien.

Sacred

Continued from page 1

scapes are what make Otsego County unique. They are why permanent residents, firsttime tourists and snowbirds alike love the area.

“We have all this [historic preservation] acreage celebrating the historic vernacular,” Pope said. “It gives our communities character.”

Houses of worship in particular can claim maintenance and repair grants if they qualify for the National Registry of Historic Places. Events like Sacred Sites allow them to re-introduce themselves to their communities and to bring residents together in celebration of their shared landscape.

“There is no cost to participate,” Pope continued, “it’s just a matter of having a rector, deacon or other congregation member on-site to welcome visitors in.”

The NyLC recommends that congregations provide information about public events and programming as well as their historic buildings. many participants offer guided tours, refreshments, organ demonstrations or other musical performances. although the deadline to appear in the statewide promotional materials has passed, Pope said Otsego 2000 will publicize and promote any local congregations that wish to participate. The NyLC offers a detailed guide to assist participants in setting up a memorable open house. For more information on the statewide event, visit https://nylandmarks. org/sacred-sites-open-house/.

Otsego 2000 has a number of upcoming events celebrating local history. Pope and Falk will host “ask

Dear Tom, We recently brought a new dog into our family. She is now our adorable, Phoebe, a five-year-old American cocker spaniel. We drove to New Hampshire to get her from her home where she had been the female for a cockapoo breeder x2. She was part of their family home (six kids and lots of cockapoos.) Her owner decided she needed a new family to love her. She is a sweetheart, and is gentle, and loves our attention. We are also so fortunate that she is both crateand “potty-” trained, and comfortable on leash—all the advantage of having an older dog. The issue now is her evident body language in fear of noises of all kinds! We have started CBD calming chews. We are seeing her vet this week and he will see her behavior firsthand. Our question to you is how we may best help our girl become more relaxed and secure as possible.

Kristi

dear Kristi, Congrats on your new family member and thank you for being one of the good guys by adopting an older dog. Having come from a family with six kids and other dogs, she is certainly somewhat socialized. However, my guess is she wasn’t really exposed to much else beyond the immediate family environment, and the

an Old House Expert” on may 13 at the Cooperstown Farmers’ market (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Community members are invited to bring in photos and learn about their homes’ architectural style, history, preservation efforts, and tax credits. The program is free of charge. To sign up for Sacred Sites or learn more about upcoming events, visit otsego2000.org or e-mail admin@otsego2000.org

total change of everything has her a little “freaked” out.

When it comes to socialization, I’m always referring to the same nine words— “Been there, done that, seen that, no big deal.” I’m not suggesting that you take her to a gun range or helicopter pad to get her used to loud noises, but rather with patience, love, and lots of special treats (meat), you slowly introduce her to the noises of the world beyond the the home. a walk into town will start to aclimatize her to the hustle and bustle of noisy cars, motorcycles and people. What you don’t want to do is reward a fear response by telling her it’s okay and giving her treats when she’s clearly terrified. When she’s startled by the loud Harley taking off, your better response is an upbeat redirection, “Wow, Phoebe, that’s one noisy Harley. What do you think?” When she looks at you quizzacally, keep up with the happy talk and a couple of special treats. With some good acting and good timing, Phoebe will be looking for treats instead of trying to run away at startling noises.

If necessary, you can buy a Cd with noises of thunder, sirens, explosions, etc. The key is to have success build on success. So play the Cd softly enough so she can handle the sounds as she gets treats, while slowly increasing the volume; again, success building on success. She will probably come around to appreciating her new life with you quite soon.

Good luck.

dog Charmer Tom Tom Shelby’s book, “Dog Training Diaries,” was judged as one of the three best training books by Dog Writer’s Association of America.

EV Car Show Slated for June 3rd

ONEONTa delaware-Otsego audubon Society has put a call out for participants and sponsors for its upcoming Electric Vehicle Car Show on June 3. The event will highlight local EV owners and inform potential buyers about their options. EV owners are invited to participate at no charge. dealerships are sought as event sponsors and are encouraged to attend the event with EV vehicles. Businesses and vendors that are aligned with climate change, carbon reduction and sustainability are also invited to participate. Sponsorship levels and registration information can be found at https://doas.us/ev-2023/. Participants must register by may 20. For more information, contact info@ doas.us. The EV Car Show will be held at damaschke Field in Oneonta on June 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

HILL JOURNAL RICHARD DEROSA

Getting Back to Home Soil

Several days ago, a friend sent a picture of the hill from our deck. Prominent in the foreground is our vegetable garden. despite its dormant state, it awakened many memories and hopes for the future. It also reminded me of how anxious I am to be home and get my hands into the very rich soil that I have nourished with organic materials so diligently over the years. Curious, isn’t it, how a picture like that can remind one of the profound significance of place, especially that place one calls home. We will have been away from home for four months by the time we get back. We have been away for long stretches of time before, but this time around we realized that at this time in our lives home is where we want to be, and where we need to be. So much of who we are stems from our relationship to this gently rolling hillside for almost 20 years.

my first thought when seeing the garden: Gotta get the peas in. an early spring ritual we gardeners look forward to. It is the first spring planting, the first opportunity to get one’s hands into that warming soil, a gesture of rebirth, a rekindling of the joy and practicality that comes with this ages-old practice, perhaps humankind’s most essential obligation to itself. What it is about cool soil that appeals to peas? I suspect a plant biologist would have a scientific explanation. I prefer to think it is a bit of pea bravado. There are personalities that have to be ahead of the game, beat the flock to the gate. The expression “pea brain” unfairly maligns the pea. after all, it knows itself better than anyone/thing else. Brain size correlates to need. Why waste space when there is no need? Cold weather crops have a practical function in that they get their jobs done early, thus making space for their less hardy compatriots. There is a wisdom in that.

Next on the list: onions and spinach. Some gardeners sow both in the fall but, despite giving it some thought from time to time, I have never gotten around to it. Part of it, I guess, is just habit. Habits

are not all that bad, and while I cannot claim to have fewer eccentricities than the next guy, they fit me rather comfortably. Oddities of thought and habit are not strangers to me. Of that I am reminded quite often by those closest to me. all, however, have arisen quite naturally. many of my gardening practices have evolved by trial and error. Others from years of observing others’ approaches and working them into my own system. Looking at the picture again it occurs to me that this might be the year I actually plant things according to a preconceived design. although, I doubt it. Once I get in there and start digging around, all preconceived notions dissipate. There is something about sticking to any design that rankles my aesthetic sense. Precision has always escaped me. Which is a good thing, since there are avocations for which calibration is essential and my life has been anything but calibrated. Over the years I have sat at my desk, pencil and ruler in hand, and organized the garden according to a specific scheme. all falls to the wayside once I get in the garden. I morph into some sort of free-wheeling seed sower. Of course, there are perils to this approach. Inevitably, the garden takes on the look of a tropical jungle and getting to some things almost invites the use of a machete. Organization has its uses, but over-organization tends to be a bit dispiriting. It is too confining, at least insofar as my gardening psyche is concerned. my aesthetic is simple—stick stuff in the ground wherever it fits or feels right. The garden, raised beds empty for now but amended last fall with compost and manure, will be in my head while we drive home this coming week. I am sure that multiple designs will come to mind. None, of course, will see the light of day. I talked to a neighbor this morning who tells me that daffodils are everywhere. We cannot wait to drive up our hill through a gauntlet of hundreds of yellow and white daffodils lining both sides of the driveway. Welcome home, they will say.

Photo provided

Penny, shown here with one of her humans, has trouble resisting the lure of the squirrels.

Photo provided Phoebe struggles with loud noises.

HAWTHORN

►Thursday, May 11

SENIOR TECH SUPPORT 10:30 a.m. Seniors are invited to bring their smartphone, tablet or laptop to get help using their device or learn about various features and tools they may not be aware of. Free, one-on-one support.

Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. (607) 547-4232.

CONNECTIONS 1:15 p.m.

Join the group at Connections for a presentation by Francine Stayter, Otsego County Master Gardener, to learn how to attract birds and bees to the garden. Held at the Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown.

BOOK DISCUSSION

3:30 p.m. Read and discuss classic books with the group. This month, discuss “Fahrenheit 451” and “1984,” followed by a lecture at 5 p.m. on dystopian fiction with professor Tagliarina. Cooperstown Village Library. (607) 547-8344.

CHALLENGE BOOK CLUB 3:30-5 p.m. Children aged 11-14 are invited to this book club exploring all the age-appropriate books “they” don’t want you to read. The reading list for this club is full of books that have been challenged due to inclusion of controversial material, from profanity to LGBTQIA+ content and more. Students will learn how to discuss these difficult topics, expand critical thinking skills, share reactions, and learn about literary rating systems and their impacts.

Headwaters Art Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford. (607) 214-6040.

T ZONE 4-6 p.m. Teens aged 12-15 are invited for after-school program to de-stress, enjoy a nutritious snack and play games with their peers in a safe environment. Held Tuesdays and

Thursdays at the Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. Visit richfieldspringscommunitycenter.org/programs/

ARTIST TALK

5 p.m.

Enjoy a talk by artist Terry Slade on the exhibit “Color Immersion/Explosion.” Exhibit features the works of Slade and Louis Sherry—one formally trained, the other self-taught; one painting on wood, the other working in clay & glass. Free admission. Reservations requested. On view through 5/20. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 941-9607.

DINE FOR A CAUSE

5:30-8 p.m. Dine out and a percentage of the proceeds will go to support local nonprofit Helios Care. Origins Cafe, 558 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 432-6773.

TOASTMASTERS

6:15-7:30 p.m. Join Oneonta Toastmasters to practice public speaking in a supportive environment. Meets each 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, May be attended in person or online. Held at The Green Earth Health Food Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit facebook.com/

OneontaToastmasters

HISTORY MEETING

6:30 p.m. Join the Otsego County Historical Association each 2nd Thursday of the month for lively discussions and presentations on local history. This month features author and historian Jim Loudon, discussing his new book about the history of Phoenix Mills. Loudon’s previous books include “Electric Lake: Oneonta’s Forgotten gem,” “The Oneonta Roundhouse,” and “Leatherstocking Rails: A History of Railroading Along the Upper Susquehanna.” Held at Kinney Memorial Library, 3140

County Road 11, Hartwick. (607) 547-8070.

WORD THURSDAY 7 p.m.

Enjoy a presentation from featured writers Frank Haberle (author of “Shufflers,” a story of transients moving through minimum-wage jobs in the 1980s; and the upcoming “Downlanders,” following five misfits into a fictional wilderness) and Alvin Eng (author “Our Laundry, Our Town: My Chinese American Life from Flushing to the Downtown Stage and Beyond”), whose plays have been seen off-Broadway across the U.S. Registration required. Presented by the Bright Hill Press and Literary Center, Treadwell. (607) 829-5055.

►Friday, May 12

EXHIBIT OPENS 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m. Exhibit “Art of New York: Annual Juried Art Show” opens to the public, featuring 42 pieces by 37 artists from across New York State in contemporary and traditional genres of oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor, photography, and sculpture. Show runs through July 23. Reception and awards presentation held 1-4 p.m. on May 20. Admission, $9/adult. Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie. (518) 673-2314.

MEDICARE 101 10:30

a.m. Learn more and get your questions answered in an informative session discussing Medicare health insurance including Parts A, B, C, D, and more. Helpful for individuals turning 65 who need to sign up, those who intend to work a few more years, and those already on Medicare and want a better understanding. Registration required. Presented by the Otsego County Office for the Aging at the Worcester/Schenevus Library, 168 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 547-4232.

NATURE GROUP Noon. Join Otsego County Conservation Association for fun seasonal walk and pond study around the covered bridge and beaver pond trails. This group, geared for homeschooled students but open

to everyone, will examine the wetlands, beaver ponds, and Shadow Brook for nesting waterfowl, macro-invertebrates, and signs of local animals. Will also discuss adaptations, plant ID and the park’s natural history. Please dress for the weather. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown. (607) 547-4488.

YOUTH ZONE 7-10 p.m.

Students in grades 7-12 are invited for a fun night of games and activities each Friday. Games range from air hockey to Xbox games to board games, with arts and crafts, baking, and more offered. Held at The Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. Visit richfieldspringscommunitycenter.org/the-zone/

THEATER 7:30 p.m.

Orpheus Theatre presents “Rent,” the rock musical about living for today, featuring local talent. Tickets, $20/adult. Presented at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, Oneonta. Also showing 5/13 and at 3 p.m. 5/14. (607) 432-1800.

►s aTurday, May 13

MOTHER’S DAY PHOTOGRAPHY 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Youth are invited for this art education workshop, “How to Photograph Your Mother: Artistic Storytelling,” presented by world-renowned photographer Nick Kelsh. Students will learn how to take great photos on iPhones, then the mothers will be invited back at 2 p.m. to have their portrait taken. Students will present the finished portrait with an accompanying poem, haiku, or letter as a Mother’s Day present the next day. Cost, $100. Scholarships available. Presented by Bright Hill Press, 94 Church Street, Treadwell. (607) 829-5055.

VENDOR DAY 9 a.m. to noon. Get acquainted with the vendors of the Oneonta Farmers’ Market on the first day the market moves outside for the season. Do your grocery shopping, support the local foodshed. Field next to

the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, Oneonta. Visit facebook.com/Destina-

tionOneonta/

HISTORIC HOMES

10 a.m. to noon. Visit the farmers’ market and stop at the resource table to “Ask an Old House Expert.” Bring your photos and Dr. Cindy Falk, a professor of material culture at the Cooperstown Graduate Program, will answer questions about your house, ranging from the style of architecture and historical context to resources for more information. Cooperstown Farmers’ Market, 101Main Street, Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. (607) 547-8881.

BOOK COLLECTION 10

a.m. to noon. Friends of the Village Library will be collecting books for its summer book sale to support Cooperstown Library. Bring books to side entrance on Fair Street. Village Library of Cooperstown. (607) 547-8344.

VINTAGE TREASURES

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rotary Club of Cooperstown presents the Vintage Treasure Sale. Find secondhand vintage items from art and collectibles to furniture, clothing, jewelry, toys and games, books, and much, much more! Proceeds benefit Rotary’s good works. Held at Christ Episcopal Parish Hall, 69 Fair Street, Cooperstown.

ART EXHIBIT 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Walk through exhibit, “Color Immersion/Explosion,” featuring the works of Terry Slade and Louis Sherry—one formally trained, the other self-taught; one painting on wood, the other working in clay and glass. Free admission. Reservations requested. On view through 5/20. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (315) 941-9607.

NAVAJO DANCES 11 a.m.

The award-winning Dine Tah’

Navajo Dancer Troupe presents a day full of traditional dances and songs by the Navajo “Dine” people. Admission, $8/adult. Amphitheater, Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. (518) 296-8949.

DONATE—Noon to 2 p.m. Donate pottery, houseplants, seedlings, or cuttings of plants to the popular Plant and Pottery Sale to sup-

port the animals cared for by Super Heroes Humane Society. They are also looking for outdoor garden items in good shape, such as garden statues, bird houses/feeders and furniture. 160 Pony Farm Road, Oneonta. (607) 441-3227.

PREMIER 3 & 6 p.m. The community is invited for the first-ever showing of the firstever adaptation of Stephen King’s short story, “The Monkey,” about a cursed monkey doll and a man facing a nightmare from his past. Adapted by Spencer Sherry and filmed around the Capital Region with local talent. Free admission. Concessions and cash bar available (21+). Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

SPAGHETTI DINNER

4:30-7 p.m. Enjoy delicious spaghetti and support the Schenevus Class of 2025. Held at Schenevus Masonic Lodge, 82 Main Street, Schenevus. (607) 638-5881.

NATURE WALK 7 p.m. Join Otsego County Conservation Association educator Shelby McLeish for an afterhour stroll along the beach and on the Beaver Pond Trail. Experience the sights and sounds of insects and animals not found during the day. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Highway 31, Cooperstown. (607) 547-4488.

MOTHERS DAY CONCERT 7 p.m. On the eve of Mother’s Day, all are invited to bring the entire family and especially the mothers for a free concert to ring in the spring. Presented by the Caroga Lake Music Festival strings. They will be joined by the local a capella singing group New Day, Voices of Schoharie County for a special number in the program. Held in the Church Sanctuary, Cobleskill United Methodist Church, 109 Chapel Street, Cobleskill. (518) 234-3671.

OPENING CONCERT

7 p.m. West Kortright Center opens its 48th season with a performance by acoustic fingerstyle guitarist Yasmin Williams, known for her unorthodox, modern style of playing. General admission, $25. Arrive early to enjoy dinner and drinks from the concession stand. West Kortright Center, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith. (607) 278-5454.

BENEFIT CONCERT

9 p.m. Enjoy a live performance by Jason Wicks. Bring your own beverages. Food and some refreshments available. Admission, $10. Proceeds go to the Fire Department Equipment Fund. Pittsfield Fire Department, 167 State Highway 80, New Berlin. (607) 847-8127.

►sunday, May 14

BIRD WALK 8-10 a.m. Join the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society to view returning migrant birds, from warblers to orioles to possible raptors. Will last approximately two hours and requires some hill climbing and hiking over uneven and possibly muddy ground. Held at DOAS Sanctuary/Franklin Mountain Hawk Watch, 52 Grange Hall Road Spur, Oneonta. (607) 267-8491.

►Monday, May 15

ATV SAFETY May 15 through July 15, the first 25 Schoharie and Otsego county residents who complete the online ATV safety course can receive free helmets and goggles from Bennet Motor Sales, Fly Creek. (518) 8264056.