The Freeman's Journal 05-25-23

Otsego Issues Executive Order

Bliss: County Must Regulate, Oversee Any Housing of Migrants

By CASPAR EWIG

OTSEGO COUNTY

On May 16, Otsego County joined the growing list of municipalities that have instituted limitations and conditions on the housing of migrants and asylum seekers entering the United States at its southern border. By adopting the declaration of an emergency set out in New York State’s Executive Order #28, and by issuing its own State of Emergency Declaration, Otsego County officials were empowered to issue Emergency Order #1, regulating the terms under which municipalities within the county could agree to house migrants.

Since Texas, Arizona and Florida began alleviating their own overcrowding by busing migrants to other states, metropolitan areas including New York City have been faced with the realization that housing the influx of migrants is overtaxing their capabilities to render social services. Governor Kathy Hochul, in her Executive Order, noted that New York City was housing more than 36,000 migrants as of May 9, and that this number was increasing with no end in sight. Similarly, Mayor Eric Adams noted New York City is having trouble finding sufficient shelter within the city limits, resulting in having to look for housing in surrounding counties.

The opposition by Rockland and Orange counties to the north, and Suffolk County to the east, was immediate. Some declared a state of emergency and used that authority to block hotels and motels from accepting migrants sent to them by New York City. Other counties actually applied for and were granted judicial restraining orders prohibiting certain lodging places from being converted into homeless shelters.

Otsego County has not, to date, been asked to house migrants.

“But inquiries have already been made to lodging places and municipalities in Broome and Oneida counties, and so the board really had no choice but to deal with the issue so that it could at least regulate and oversee the migrant housing

Continued on page 8

Coop Resident Interviewed by NBC

NEW YORK CITY—The Commissioning Ceremony of the USS Cooperstown in New York City on Saturday, May 6 brought together many people. It was estimated that about 1,000 attended the ceremony, with roughly 300 in the VIP seating at the front of the stage. Attendees ranged from the Secretary of the Navy and the New York State governor to the ship’s crew and their families.

One of those attending the commissioning was Bill Waller, husband to former Cooperstown Mayor Carol Waller. Bill attended as a guest of one of the members of the Cooperstown Board of

Continued on page 8

Cooperstown Hosts 1st Pride Weekend Oneonta Site of Block Party, Parade on Saturday, June 3

By WRILEY NELSON

ONEONTA

Otsego Pride Alliance and local businesses will present Cooperstown’s first-ever Pride Weekend at the beginning of Pride Month. The festivities will start at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, June 1 with a Pride flag raising at Village Hall. Former Cooperstown Trustee MacGuire Benton will attend to kick off the weekend with a special performance by Cooperstown Central School’s Identity Alliance. Stagecoach Coffee will offer complimentary hot chocolate and coffee.

On June 2, Brewery Ommegang will present a special Pride Month Fire Pit Friday from 710 p.m. The all-ages event will feature food, drinks, a bonfire, an address by Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh and a live DJ set by DJ TRUMASTR. There will also be a firework display. Local businesses will sell Cooperstown Pride Weekend merchandise.

The main Otsego Pridefest Block Party will begin with a parade at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center in Oneonta at 2 p.m. on June 3. The parade lines up at 1 p.m. It will lead to Main Street, where the block party will feature live music, family-friendly drag shows, kids’ activities, vendors, speakers, yoga, community and volunteer resources, and more.

The Landmark Inn and Barnyard Swing have partnered to present Family Pride Day from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 4. It will feature face painting, spin art, fossil safari, mini golf, music by DJ Raphael and a special appearance by Rapunzel. The Susquehanna SPCA will be in attendance with pets available for adoption. A portion of the proceeds from Family Pride Day

Continued on page 8

New Pastor Appointed to First United Methodist Church

By MARCIA KOZUBEK ONEONTA

The Rev. Casey Bradley of Richfield Springs has been named pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Oneonta. He will begin July 2, filling the spot held for five years by the Rev. Marti Swords-Horrell, who is retiring.

affirming church. I want to take time to see what’s working and see how I can have an impact on the church and community,” he said. Past experience with technology should serve Bradley well in his new position.

“I have had a computer in my house since I was born. I am happy to see this church has embraced it,” he said.

Methodist Church in Oneonta and her spouse, the Rev. Dana Horrell, became pastor of the United Methodist Church in Cooperstown. The couple previously served small churches in Albany and Troy.

Rev. Marti, as she is known, said she became the “pandemic pastor.” When the church closed for eight months, she began live-streaming Sunday services from home.

in the news, page 10

►young eQuestrian wins award, page 11

Bishop Hector Burgos appointed Bradley, 36, after the local staffparish committee interviewed him and gave a positive review. Bradley holds a bachelor’s degree in social work received in 2009 from SUNY Plattsburgh. He graduated from the Boston University School of Theology in 2012.

Bradley then went on to serve various churches over the next decade, including Lake Luzerne Methodist Church, South Corinth Methodist Church and, most recently, the Richfield Springs Methodist

Church. Bradley will be ordained at the Upper New York Conference session on June 2 in Syracuse.

“I am very excited to serve a church that is open to the community, a very

In fact, in his former job in Richfield Springs he had to work hard to get the church streaming.

“Closing the church [during the pandemic] helped convince people that technology is an important part of ministry,” he added.

Rev. Bradley will move to Oneonta with his wife, Heather, a clinical social worker, and their dog Cyder, a beagle mix.

Rev. Swords-Horrell arrived in Oneonta on July 21, 2018. She became the pastor of the First United

“I am proud of the way we responded, using our gifts, graces and talents. Just like libraries and hospitals, we joined the digital generation. We are in a new world and we have to adapt,” she said, noting the church will continue to Zoom services.

“I want to give thanks to our staff. They did 110 percent all the time,” she continued.

Swords-Horrell also praised the church’s team of nurses, who helped members register on-line for

Continued on page 8

Photo provided THE REV. CASEY BRADLEY

Photo by Joseph Membrino

Cooperstown’s Seamon Commits to St. John Fisher

By WRILEY NELSON

COOPERSTOWN

Cooperstown High School three-season

star Danielle Seamon announced that she has committed to St. John Fisher University. Seamon played soccer for the Hawkeyes and led the girls basketball team to a 19-6 record in the 2022-

2023 season. She was named to the Class C All-State third team for basketball in April. As the basketball season ended, Jon Rathbun of the “Herkimer Times Telegram” named her one of his 10 returning All-State softball selections to watch in 2023. She has more than lived up to the expectation.

Seamon was named a Class

C All-State honoree in her sophomore and junior years, batting .500 over two years and hitting 13 home runs. She picked up a great deal of the team’s pitching responsibilities last year, although she usually prefers to play outfield or third base.

“Pitching isn’t really my thing; I do it because we don’t have many pitchers,”

Seamon said. “We have a small program and no pitching coach, so my catcher and I work on it and call pitches.”

Seamon’s packed schedule made her difficult to reach for an interview. In addition to her three regular seasons with the Hawkeyes, she plays Amateur Athletic Union basketball and travel league softball. She visited Atlantic City to play basketball over the weekend of may 20-21 after hitting a game-winning home run and pitching two hitless innings against Unatego on may 19. Cooperstown earned the number three seed in the Section III Class C playoffs and will face 14-seeded Sauquoit Valley shortly after press time on may 23. The Hawkeyes faced SV twice during the regular season and beat them both times. Seamon threw 10 strikeouts and hit a double and a home run against SV on may 17.

“I’ll have a whole training packet for college this summer, but I’ve been playing a ton lately, too,” Seamon said when asked

Cooperstown Honors Doug Walrath

By WRILEY NELSON

COOPERSTOWN

The Village of Cooperstown and Rotary Club of Cooperstown celebrated Arbor Day with a ceremony in memory of Doug Walrath on may 22. Walrath was a U.S. Army veteran and 52-year member of Rotary. He graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1947 and earned a Purple Heart after he was severely wounded in the Korean War. Walrath served as village clerk and treasurer from 1965 to 1990. One of two village employees in the 1960s, he oversaw the construction of the wastewater treatment plant; at the time, its associated bond issue was the largest in village history. After retirement, he continued to serve the community as a village trustee and as a member of Rotary and his lifelong faith community at Christ Church Cooperstown.

Photo by Cynthia Falk

Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh reads the Village Arbor Day Proclamation as Peg Walrath looks on.

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 oneday flat water canoe race in North America. It begins at Brookwood Point outside 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/.

Hall of Fame Classic Returns May 28

COOPERSTOWN—Baseball’s biggest stars will return to the Hall of Fame Classic game in Cooperstown on may 27. Hall of Fame members Bert Blyleven, Rollie Fingers, Fergie Jenkins, Jim Kaat, Jack morris and Lee Smith will serve as coaches and managers. They will be joined by recently retired players representing all 30 major League teams for a seven-inning legends game at Cooperstown’s historic Doubleday Field. The Classic will headline an entire weekend of family-friendly events designed for baseball fans of all ages. Gates open at 11 a.m., the Home Run contest starts at noon and the 13th Hall of Fame Classic will begin at 1 p.m. The popular “Night at the Ballpark” event also returns on may 27, with tickets at $75.00. Visit https://baseballhall.org/discover/hall-offame-classic for a full roster and tickets. Any remaining tickets will be available at the Doubleday Field Will Call tent at 9 a.m. Due to a construction project, there will be no seats available on the third base line for 2023.

Memorial Day Activities Planned Countywide

OTSEGO COUNTY—Parades, a memorial 5K race, festivals and more are planned throughout the county over the upcoming three-day weekend:

• Cherry Valley ‘Spring into Summer’—Three-day festival, may 26-29, celebrating the start of summer. Visit CherryValley.com to learn more.

• Hartwick Pancake Breakfast—Saturday, may 27 from 8-11 a.m. Connect Church Seniors, 4354 State Highway 80, Hartwick.

• milford memorial 5K—Saturday, may 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Celebrate the life of Andy Jones, an active member of the milford Fire Department who passed away unexpectedly in January. Wilber Park, Dave West Drive, milford.

• Richfield Springs memorial Day Parade—monday, may 29 from 10:30 a.m., followed by the memorial Day chicken barbecue at the Veterans Club, 13 Lake Street.

• Cherry Valley memorial Day Parade—monday, may 29 beginning at 10 a.m. Honor the sacrifice of our nation’s fallen heroes. Parade kicks off from the Cherry Valley Library and marches to the Cherry Valley Cemetery where a memorial service will be held. Parade is followed by a chicken barbecue at 11 a.m. at the Tryon Inn.

• Cooperstown memorial Day Parade—monday, may 29. 11 a.m. step off from the Cooperstown Vets Club.

• Oneonta memorial Day Parade—monday, may 29. The day will begin with a parade on main Street (line-up at 9 a.m. and step off at 10), to commemorate Chief Warrant Officer 3 Christopher Robert Eramo. After the parade there will be a ceremony of remembrance at 11 a.m. on the Veterans memorial Walkway in Neahwa Park.

Universities Establish Oneonta Inclusive Business Award

By WRILEY NELSON

ONEONTA

SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College honored five organizations with the inaugural Oneonta Inclusive Business Award at a ceremony on may 9. Students, faculty and staff from both colleges were invited to vote for their choices from a pool of 18 businesses nominated by campuswide surveys. In order to be nominated, a business had to provide “exceptional service to diverse populations, treat customers with utmost respect and civility, and go above and beyond in meeting the needs of its diverse customers,” a release said.

Wise Guys Sammy’s, Social Eats Café, Oneonta Boys and Girls Club, Boba Yaga and King’s Kakery Pastry each received the award at SUNY Oneonta’s Center for Racial Justice and Inclusive Excellence.

“I was very honored and humbled to have received this award for practicing diversity and inclusion in my bakery,” said Allison King of King’s Kakery. “It makes me very proud to know that our community, both college students and locals, feels that

our business is inclusive to all. For us, that simply starts with a kind greeting as soon as you walk through our door.”

Bob Escher, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club, said, “We appreciate this recognition from Hartwick and SUNY Oneonta. All kids ages 6-16 are welcomed here free of charge, which is something we are very grateful for. Creating a community that raises strong, kind, confident kids is why we are here.”

Nathanial Roberts of Boba Yaga added, “This award is particularly special to us because it was nominated and voted on by college students in our community. Your support means the world to us, and we are so grateful for the recognition.”

The Inclusive Business Award is the result of collaborative efforts by SUNY Oneonta’s Office of Equity and Inclusion, subcommittees of the President’s Council, and Hartwick College’s Offices of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, and Human Resources, Inclusion and Compliance. Both universities said they aimed to foster participation in the wider Oneonta community.

Decoration Day 101

In spite of the incessantly confusing and mildly annoying weather patterns we have been confronted with recently around here, we have come to Memorial Day weekend, reputedly the harbinger of summer, though we have hardly seen spring. It’s supposed to be warm and pleasant, a packed weekend filled with family and friends, parades, taps, salutes, speeches, frost-free gardens, canoe races, and tag sales.

This Monday is Memorial Day, a time to remember, mourn and celebrate those brave souls who gave their lives for our country. This day was not always recognized on the last Monday in May, nor has it always been called Memorial Day, nor has the exact origin, or creator, of the day been confirmed. A number of states and cities had early days of remembrance, largely marked by the decoration of graves. The first soldier killed in the Civil War, John Quincy Marr of Warrenton, Virginia, who fought and died in the Battle of Fairfax Courthouse on June 1, 1861, was honored with flowers on his grave, a practice not widely seen since ancient times. Later, in 1865, a parade of 10,000 people organized by formerly enslaved Black families honored 257 slain Union soldiers in Charleston, South Carolina. During the Civil War, a group of women known as the Ladies Memorial Association sought to establish an annual holiday to decorate the graves of soldiers with flowers throughout the South. Their request spread, through newspapers, to the North, where such a holiday was also trumpeted. By 1865, South Carolina, Virginia and Mississippi all had precedents for a form of Memorial Day.

The first national observance of Memorial Day, called Decoration Day at the time, came at the end of the Civil War when, on March 3, 1868, it was proclaimed a holiday by Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic (not, as far as we know, a relation of our own illustrious, late, John G. Logan), to be celebrated on May 30 when there are abundant flowers, to honor Union soldiers. The South took offense—the North had appropriated their holiday—and, in 1874, the Georgia legislature proclaimed Confederate Memorial Day a public holiday. The date of the commemoration still swung from April to mid-June, and its founding place did as well: Macon and Columbus, Georgia; Richmond, Virginia; Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; Carbondale, Illinois and 20 more metropolises all claimed the day. To solve this, in 1966 President Lyndon Johnson, with or without reason, declared the birthplace of Memorial Day to be Waterloo, New York.

By the end of the 19th century Memorial Day ceremonies, still honoring specifically the 600,000 soldiers who fought and died in the Civil War, were being held on May 30 across the country, and the Army and Navy had proposed proper observance etiquette. Then, when the United States became embroiled in World War I, the day was expanded to honor those soldiers who died. This then came to include those who perished in all American wars: World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In 1967 the day was officially named Memorial Day, and in 1971 our Memorial Day (at times still called Decoration Day) became a national holiday. Its date was moved to the last Monday in May, making it, along with other holidays, a three-day weekend for federal employees. In December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed the “National Moment of Remembrance Act,” which encourages all of us to take a minute to remember, at 3 p.m. local time. Happy Memorial 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.

How Bassett Will Survive and Thrive

Dear Friends, Neighbors and Colleagues,

As you are almost certainly aware, these are difficult times for health systems nationwide. For over a decade there has been a growing shortage of medical caregivers. Due to burnout following the COVID-19 pandemic, even more people have left clinical professions, and this is now a dire situation. The shortage is national and is especially pronounced in rural areas. The need for nurses, in particular, has driven hospitals like ours to rely on traveling nurse agencies to ensure there are enough staff members to cover even a minimal number of beds. Agency nurses are excellent (and we are beyond thankful to have them on our caregiving teams), but they are expensive. Relying on them is not sustainable long-term.

Bassett Healthcare Network is feeling this pressure: the needs of our patients; the need for more doctors, nurses, and techs; the strains on our budget. Most rural health systems are feeling the same pressures, and some are shrinking, cutting, or closing as a result. The question I hear frequently from many of you is: So, will Bassett survive?

I hope you’re not surprised to hear me answer with a resounding yes! I also hope you don’t dismiss that as pie-in-the-sky optimism.

One of our biggest advantages over many other health systems is that we were already preparing for change before this crisis hit. Many of the difficult changes we implemented over the past few years were intentional and necessary to build resiliency to respond to large structural and environmental shifts. For years,

Local Businesses Give in Support of Library

The Friends of the Village Library would like to extend their thanks to the community and all of the local businesses who supported this year’s National Library Lovers’ campaign in February.

The campaign featured a full month of activities and events designed to bring awareness to and support of the Village Library of Cooperstown. More than 25 local businesses supported this year’s campaign by hanging posters—designed by local artist Peg Donahue—creating promotional items and offering discounts throughout the month.

Willis Monie Books offered a special discount coupon for the month of February and Stagecoach Coffee showcased literary themed specialty drinks throughout the month.

For the second year in a row, The Landmark Inn generously donated a percentage of proceeds from their literary-themed rooms during the month of February. Inn owners Keith Gulla and John Walker presented FoVL with a check for $200.00 in support of the library’s role in the community providing access to information and resources, promoting literacy and education, encouraging lifelong learning, and serving as a community gathering place.

Bassett has been mapping a course to become a fully integrated and unified network. Each of our hospitals has been invaluable to their communities since their founding. We know that when they work together, connected by shared resources, caregivers, expertise, and technology, the effect is a multiplied benefit for all.

Much of the work we have done toward full integration—things like centralized administrative roles, coordinated benefits and a single payroll system, unified information technology services, consistent job descriptions, and more—are naturally outside the public view. However, the results are not. These steps are giving our caregivers greater mobility and access to opportunities within the network. That makes us a better employer, retaining our talented caregivers while attracting more to our area.

We have also been looking at how we can meet the unique needs of each patient and provide the best possible care. Patients with critical or serious conditions or needing complex surgeries may require access to the tools and specialists at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, for example. Meanwhile, patients with different care needs might benefit more from the skills of practitioners and the private rooms available at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. Still others who need short-term rehabilitation may require care plans that are best accommodated by one of our programs at Cobleskill Regional Hospital, Little Falls Hospital, or O’Connor Hospital in Delhi. A truly integrated health system like Bassett means it should be easy to get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

Importantly, wherever you receive

care in the Bassett network, your care team will always have your records, medication lists, test results, and more at their fingertips, thanks to our shared electronic medical records— whether you’re in the hospital or having an appointment. Likewise, your primary care practitioner can continue to oversee your care plans no matter where you receive services. You can even get consultations from expert specialists anywhere in the network or beyond without traveling long distances, thanks to telemedicine. Learn more about our digital care options by visiting www.bassett. org/GetCareNow.

These enhancements are even more crucial during this difficult, post-COVID period. Over the past few months, the number of beds available around our network has increased—and the gains have been especially significant at Bassett Medical Center. Thanks to our integrated system, increased capacity in one of our hospitals can ease the burden everywhere.

I know that, in the long run, this period of time will be seen as a watershed moment for Bassett—a time when we embraced disruption and fostered growth. We are making changes that will benefit our patients and communities greatly in the long run. Bassett Healthcare Network has provided excellent care and services to people for more than 100 years—and because of our work to strengthen and expand our foundation today, I’m eager to see our growth over the next century.

Sincerely,

Dr. Tommy Ibrahim President & CEO Bassett Healthcare Network

No to Exclusion as an ‘Emergency’ Measure

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

The Local Bird designed and printed a limited-edition “Booked All Day” Village Library tote bag to celebrate, which was on sale through the month of April. Fifty percent of each bag sale went back to FOVL.

In total, The Local Bird donated $444.00 directly to FoVL as part of this campaign, and shop owners Karl Benner and Megan Haggerty hope to do it again next year.

For more information on the mission of Friends of the Village Library, visit https://libraries.4cls.org/ cooperstown/friends-of-the-villagelibrary/libraryloversmonth/.

Karen Katz President

Friends of the Village Library

This year, I had students in my historic preservation class at the Cooperstown Graduate Program do research on businesses in New York in the 1930s to the 1960s that were welcoming to Black travelers as documented in the “Negro Motorist Green Book.” One student, Megan Good, uncovered the story of the Trade Winds Motor Court in Yonkers and its involvement in the United States v. City of Yonkers segregation case.

In 1984, former city council member Michael F. Cipriani admitted to attempting to limit the number of minority patrons to the Trade Winds Motor Court to no more than 15 percent, citing rampant crime. While this was one small part of the overall case, the court found that the City of Yonkers, the Yonkers Board of Education, and the Yonkers Community Development agency had intentionally segregated public schools and housing. That was not only ethically wrong, but it was also illegal.

Imagine my surprise to then read a recent Emergency Order issued by Otsego County that—citing a housing crisis—states, “No hotel, motel, owner of a multiple dwelling, or shelter in

Otsego County is permitted to contract or otherwise engage in business with any other municipality other than the County of Otsego for the purpose of providing housing or accommodations for migrants or asylum seekers without a license granted by the county.”

It goes on to explain that a license from the county will only be issued if “the migrants or asylum seekers will be returned to the foreign municipality from which they arrived or another location outside the County, within fifteen days.”

Like racial segregation, policies at the federal, state, and now county level addressing migration across international borders into the United States are often motivated by fear and prejudice, especially against people who are perceived as different. In Yonkers, in the 1980s, government officials cited crime as the reason to keep Black people out of hotels, including the Trade Winds (which, by the way, rented rooms just for the day with discounted rates before 6 p.m).

In Otsego County today, the rationale is more nuanced, but in the end the board chairman finds, “This situation threatens public safety.”

It is as if history is repeating itself,

Photo provided

Keith Gulla and John Walker, shown here with Bowie, are among the business owners who supported the Village Library of Cooperstown and Friends of the Village Library during this year’s national Library Lovers’ campaign.

210 YEARS AGO

The King of Bavaria, with the intention of meeting the extraordinary exigencies of the state without increasing the amount of debt, and without obstructing the payments of the different services, which are made with the greatest regularity, has ordered that the voluntary loan which had been opened through the medium of a lottery, should be converted into a forced loan; in consequence of which all the inhabitants of the kingdom who possess a fortune of more than 2,000 florins, or a salary or pension above 600 florins, are to contribute to this loan according to their fortunes or salaries – so that those who are possessed of a fortune of from 2,000 to 4,000 florins, shall be obliged to purchase a ticket of the value of 10 florins; of from 4,000 to 5,000 florins, a ticket at 25 florins; of 10,000 florins, a ticket at 150 florins; and for every 1,000 above 10,000, an additional ticket at 15 florins. May 22, 1813

185 YEARS AGO

Artillery Regimental Orders, May 7, 1838—In pursuance of the power vested in me, I Seth H. Chase, Colonel, and commanding officer of the 12th Regiment of Artillery of the Militia of the State of New York, do hereby appoint a Regimental Court Martial, for the trial of all delinquents and deficiencies, in the said Regiment, to consist of three members, viz: Lieut. Colonel Wm. P. Jones, of Exeter, as President thereof; Capt. Barzilla R. Brown, of Decatur and Lieut. Benj. F. Spencer, of Maryland, as members. The said court will convene on the 8th day of October next, at the house of Isaac Lewis, in the Village of Cooperstown, and adjourn from time to time, as shall become necessary for the transaction of business. Seth H. Chase, Colonel. May 21, 1838

160 YEARS AGO

May 22, 1863

135 YEARS AGO

The Coming Disintegration of the Republican Party —There can be no reasonable doubt among calm and wellinformed politicians that the Republican Party will be badly beaten this year—and then as a natural result, follows its complete disintegration. It long ago reached its culminating point – it has been going down the western slope for the past decade – and after this year is destined to give place to some other political organization. The Republican Party has held power of late years largely through the ability of its leaders to so work upon the fears of a large class of men that they have simply voted “against changing the federal government.” They have been made to believe that it was dangerous to do so; that to place the Democrats in power was to invite all sorts of political evils. In Congress, the Republican Party is without any policy except to oppose what the Democrats may propose, either in the way of tariff reform or anything else. It is the same in the country at large. All that is heard from that source is the cry: “Let us turn the Democrats out of power.” The people will do nothing of the kind. (Ed. Note: Republican Benjamin Harrison won the presidential election of 1888, defeating incumbent President Grover Cleveland. However, Cleveland returned to the White House in 1892, defeating Harrison’s own bid for a second term) May 25, 1888

110 YEARS AGO

Following the appearance in the Star Theatre last week of the moving picture “Cleopatra,” our fellow townsman, F. Victor Schenck, has been playing daily the part of Marc Anthony. Papa has to lie down on the floor after supper and play dead while Victorine, the wee daughter of the household, shakes him up, pulls his hair, and tries to wake him like Cleopatra did her lover. With all the grace of childish mimicry little Victorine impersonates Cleopatra. The little Queen of the household has become the Queen of Egypt. After the Schenck tot saw Cinderella, the scenes from that play were enacted by herself – all of which serves to illustrate the impressions made by the moving picture upon the mind of a sprightly child, and emphasizes the importance of children being allowed to see only pictures that are good. May 28, 1913

Ordinances Can Improve Tobacco Retail Environment

Just a few weeks ago, Tobacco Free Communities: Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie did a survey of tobacco retailers in the City of Oneonta. The survey results provide a microcosm of the tobacco industry’s marketing in the retail environment nationwide, which in turn challenges us to consider their impact on residents’ health.

As we have previously written, the tobacco industry spends about 97 percent of its $9+ billion annual marketing budget—$173 million in New York State—on point-of-sale marketing. To recap: In stores that sell tobacco products, especially convenience stores, tobacco products are clearly displayed behind a store’s checkout counter where customers make most of their impulse buys. The tobacco products are wrapped in packages that mimic popular candy and gum products, and located near candy, soda, and toys. These strategic displays and placements attract children’s attention and have them associate tobacco products with sweet, harmless treats.

Research has long shown that POS tobacco marketing impacts community health. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported in its April 2021 “Summary of Scientific Evidence: Tobacco Retail Density, Location, and Licensure” that the more exposure to retail marketing, the higher the rates of youth initiation and tobacco use, especially flavored e-cigarettes, increased smoking and decreased cessation.

The tobacco industry ensures there are plenty of tobacco retailers because the more there are, the more exposure to its POS marketing. The CDC estimates there are about 380,000 tobacco retailers nationwide, 27 times more than McDonald’s and 28 times more than Starbucks. The CDC also reports that “tobacco retailer density is greater in areas with higher proportions of people likely to use tobacco: households receiving public assistance and areas with higher proportion of African American residents, same-sex couples, rural residents, and youth. Tobacco retailers are often located near schools.

In our survey of Oneonta, we counted 20 tobacco

By MERL REAGLE

retailers, 14 of which were convenience stores. Eighteen of the 20 tobacco retailers had tobacco products displayed within one foot of candy or soda. Thirteen, or 65 percent of the 20 retailers, had more than half of their checkout counter space dedicated to tobacco products. One tobacco retailer was within 1,000 feet of Valleyview Elementary School.

When comparing the TFC-DOS 2023 survey of Oneonta’s tobacco retailers to previous years—20192020 and 2020-2021—we can see the impact of state laws passed in 2020 on the retail environment. In those previous years, Oneonta had 27 tobacco retailers. The loss of seven retailers is in part because of the 2020 New York State law that banned the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies. Before the state ban, Oneonta had four pharmacies in its tobacco retailer tally. However, four new tobacco retailers in Oneonta replaced former businesses, which means the tobacco industry still sees the city as a profitable area for them. It is also understandable that small retailers sell tobacco products. According to Countertobacco.org, the tobacco industry incentivizes retailers, especially convenience stores with “promotional allowances.” This is money paid to retailers “to facilitate the sale or placement of tobacco products,” including “stocking, shelving, displaying and merchandising brands, volume rebates, incentive payments,” and other items.

The good news is, just as 2020 state laws have changed the tobacco retail environment for the better, local communities can do so as well by adopting carefully considered licensing and zoning policies. For instance, Oneonta can establish ordinances that control the location of tobacco retailers, require tobacco retailers to be located a certain distance from one another, and cap the number of tobacco retailers allowed in the city. For more information, contact TFC-DOS at (607) 376-7910.

Jennifer Hill is community engagement coordinator for Tobacco Free Communities: Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie.

Compiled by Tom HeiTz/SHARoN STUART with resources courtesy of The Fenimore Art museum Research Library

time out briefs

Unadilla To Hold Memorial Event

UNADILLA—The Unadilla memorial Day/Decoration

Day ceremony will be led by Deacon Joseph DeGeorgio at Unadilla Village Hall at 10:30 a.m. on may 29. It will begin with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Veterans monument on main Street, followed by a parade to Saint matthew’s Church Cemetery. Later in the day, there will be additional services at Evergreen Hill Cemetery. A wreath for those who died at sea will be dropped from the I-88 bridge. All veterans are invited to march in the parade. No uniforms are required.

Dance School Announces Classes

WEST BURLINGTON—The Otsego School of Dance and Performing Arts announced its summer program of week-long instructional day camps and group, solo, duo and trio classes. For more information or to register, visit https://otsegodance.com/. The dance school is located at 5364 State Highway 51 in West Burlington.

‘Star Power Painting’ Blasts Off

COOPERSTOWN—The first show of the Art Garage summer season, “Star Power Painting,” features Deborah Geurtze, Tracy Helgeson and Lilian Voorhees, three accomplished artists familiar to Art Garage aficionados. An opening reception on Friday, may 26 from 5-7 p.m. will be followed by gallery hours on Saturday, may 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided at the reception and all are welcome. Guests are asked to park on the gallery lawns, not on the town road. Admission is free.

Geurtze, who divides her time between the Adirondacks, the Capital Region, and Boston’s North Shore, will feature richly-textured large landscapes layered with loose and luscious brushstrokes. Helgeson, originally from m innesota but now settled on a farm near Springfield, offers iconic rural tableaux with a kind of soft-focus magic realism, her brushwork all but invisible. Lilian Voorhees, whose work is perhaps least known by the general public, will present a new body of

compiled by wriley nelson and darla m. youngs

work comprising richly abstract compositions devoid of the natural world influences that are subtly discernible in her previous work.

The exhibition will be on view for six weeks, through July 15. Free public programs offered in conjunction with the show include Thursday artists’ talks on June 8 and June 15 with Voorhees and Geurtze, respectively, and an artists’ panel discussion on Wednesday, July 6, all beginning at 5 p.m. The programs are free, though reservations are recommended to assure a seat in the limited space by calling (607) 547-5327.

Zółtowski Promoted by FCO COOPERSTOWN—The Governing Board of Fenimore Chamber Orchestra has promoted music Director maciej Żółtowski to the position of artistic director, effective immediately.

“We are immensely privileged to have a conductor of Maestro Żółtowski’s talent and achievement affiliated with Fenimore Chamber Orchestra,” said Thomas Wolf, chair of the Governing Board. “We look forward to a long and fruitful association, as we plan our second season and beyond.”

Żółtowski studied violin, composition and conducting at the prestigious Frédéric Chopin University of music in Warsaw. He has received numerous international awards and is well-known worldwide as a conductor, composer, and orchestra builder. He is also the co-founder and co-director of the Conductor’s Academy and the Audite International Conducting Competition, whose projects have included more than 20 masterclasses with professional orchestras for students coming from every part of the world. These have been arranged with partners in the U.K., Russia, Poland, Hungary, Estonia and Brazil.

Fenimore Chamber Orchestra was founded last summer and has presented four well-received concerts in Cooperstown. Their debut season concludes with a concert titled “Souvenir de Florence” at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 17 at Christ Church, 46 River Street, Cooperstown. For more information, visit fenimoreco.org.

Guild Barn Sale Set for June 3-4

mILFORD—The Guild of Glimmerglass Festival, a volunteer organization that promotes and supports the opera house, will hold a barn sale fundraiser at 3975 State Highway 28, milford, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 3 and 4. The guild will accept donations of like-new furniture, furnishings, books and collectibles. Contact John Anagnost, (607) 232-6083, for drop-off information. All donations are tax-deductible.

GOHS Program To Highlight D&H

ONEONTA—The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will kick off this season’s History After Hours series on Thursday, June 8 from 5-7 p.m. with “History After Hours: All Aboard!” The program will offer a variety of activities for adults and children of all ages at the Oneonta History Center, 183 main Street. The evening is centered around the new D&H Railroad special exhibition, including an opportunity to get hands-on with some featured D&H objects from the GOHS collection and a chance to taste some of the D&H train car fare from the early 1900s. Children will also have the opportunity to craft a miniature, light-up railroad crossing sign and train treat. All History After Hours events are free and open to the public. To learn more, visit www.oneontahistory.org.

Sailing Club Has Summer Classes

COOPERSTOWN—The Otsego Sailing Club will offer sailing lessons for children, adolescents and adults this summer. There will be five one-week sessions of Beginning Opti Sailing for children ages 5-10 starting the week of June 26. Opti boats are designed for this age group. There will also be land-based camp activities. The camp runs from 14:30 p.m., monday through Friday. Adolescent classes, on Single-Handed Opti boats (ages 11-14) and Laser Sailing boats (ages 13-18) run for two weeks, beginning June 26. Daily lessons will run from 9-11:30 a.m. Adult lessons, using Flying Scot sailboats, begin may 29 and continue until July 14. These sessions will run from 6-8 p.m. For more information or to register, visit www.otsegosailingclub.com.

AllOTSEGO.dining&entertainment

M/E Wins First Sectional Round

mORRIS—The morris/Edmeston softball team defeated Hunter-Tannersville 33-11 in the first round of the Section IV Class D Tournament on may 18. Kenna Buriello went 5-for6 with three RBI in the win. Jessica Walling and Ella Sparaco each connected for four hits. Hannah Wist earned the win in the circle; Wist, madison moore and Tatiana mcAdams combined for 10 strikeouts. m/E advanced to the semifinal round and will face Charlotte Valley on may 23.

CV-S/SS Softball Prevails

CHERRY VALLEY—The Cherry Valley-Springfield/ Sharon Springs softball team held on to beat WindhamAshland-Jewett in a 12-10 nail-biter on may 18. The game was the first round of the Section IV Class D Tournament. mia Dubben earned the win in the circle after striking out nine over seven innings. CV-S/SS drew 12 walks. Kyra Druse, Lydia Lusk and Lexie Dygert each made a hit. CV-S/SS advanced to the quarterfinals and will face Southern Cayuga on may 23.

Coop Softball Defeats Unatego

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Central School softball team wrapped up its regular season with a non-conference victory over visiting Unatego on may 19. Katie Crippen hit a solo home run in the first inning to give the Hawkeyes a 1-0 lead. Senior Dani Seamon hit a home run in the bottom of the fifth after Unatego tied the game, allowing Cooperstown to win 6-5. Seamon also pitched two hitless innings, striking out four of the seven batters she faced. Sophomore Emmy Lippitt earned the win in the circle after striking out six in five innings. Senior Savannah Kirkby scored two runs and sophomore Brenna Seamon hit an RBI double. The Hawkeyes moved to 13-2 for the season and 9-1 in the Center State Conference. On may 22, Cooperstown drew the number three seed in the Section III Class C playoffs. They will host 14-seeded Sauquoit Valley on may 23. The Hawkeyes beat SV in both of their games this season. Section semifinals are scheduled for may 27, and the finals will take place in DeWitt on may 31.

Laurens/Milford Sweeps Meet

SIDNEY—The Laurens/milford track teams each placed first in the Tri-Valley League Championship in Sidney on may 18. The L/m girls totaled 144 points, while the boys’ team finished with 141. Schenevus/Worcester took second place in the girls meet and Edmeston/morris finished second in the boys. L/m placed first in a number of events, including: Kelsey Cox, 800m; Nicole Stanley, 100m hurdles; Gabriella Saggese, 400m hurdles, Allison munson, long jump; Jaidon Brodie, triple jump; Carter Stevens, 800m, 1600m and 3000m steeplechase; Wendell Agustin, 110m hurdles, 400m hurdles and long jump; Justin LaPilusa, 100m and 400m. The S/W girls swept the relay events, winning the 4x100m, 4x200m and 4x400m races. Thomas Bennett and Collin mcEnroe of L/m each took first place in two events. Bennett won the shot put and discus. mcEnroe placed first in the high jump and triple jump. Cherry Valley-Springfield won the 4x800m relay.

Vaccarelli Earns All-Region Nod

ONEONTA—The Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association named Hartwick College lacrosse star Kristen Vaccarelli to the All-Region Second Team on may 17. She is the program’s first All-Region honoree in 23 years. Vaccarelli had an outstanding season for the Hawks, leading the team in goals, points and draw controls. Those numbers also ranked her first in the Empire 8 conference in goals per game and points per game, and second in draw controls per game. The sophomore midfielder set impressive personal bests this season, hitting the 100-point mark and 100 career goal mark. Her 82 points and 64 goals rank her fifth

in program history for points in a season and tied for sixth for goals. Vaccarelli’s best game of the season was against Alfred University on April 15, where she recorded 10 points and seven goals. She tied the program record for points in a game and tied for third place for goals. The Hawks finished the season 10-5 overall and 4-3 in E8.

CCS B-ball Wins Sectionals Opener

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Central School baseball team opened its postseason with a 9-6 victory over 19-seed Utica Notre Dame at Doubleday Field on may 22. Ethan Kukenberger earned the win after striking out eight in five innings. He also made three hits, batted in four runs and stole four bases. Bryson Whitaker went 4-for-4, including a double and two RBI. Kalen Dempsey hit a triple. Cooperstown, which holds the number 14 seed in the Section III Class C playoffs, faces three-seed Little Falls on may 23.

Track Athletes Earn Region Honors

ONEONTA—The U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association announced its All-Region honors for the 2023 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field season on may 19. Top-five individuals in each region earned All-Region honors, as did members of topthree relay teams. Four SUNY Oneonta athletes, all in their junior year, were honored. Isabella Fabrizio won the shot put at the SUNYAC Championships and qualified for the Division III Championships on may 25. megan Francoeur, a three-season track and cross-country star, earned all-region honors with her dominant performance in the 10,000m race. Jonthomas Bierman consistently improved in the 3,000m steeplechase and won the SUNYAC Championships with a meet record time of 9:06.31. Luke Jarski broke the SUNY Oneonta program record in the 800m event.

OHS Players Named to All-Region

ONEONTA—The National Fastpitch Coaches Association released their Division III softball All-Region teams on may

19. Out of 373 honorees in 10 regions, three SUNY Oneonta players received honors. Sophomore Julia Serena was named to the Region III first team as a catcher and juniors Sara Cartier and Delaney Haley were named to the second team as designated player and outfielder, respectively. Serena was a second-team selection last year. Twenty-three teams had three players chosen, including Oneonta and SUNY New Paltz. NFCA member coaches nominate and vote for winners in their respective region. All honorees move forward to be considered for selection for the three NFCA Division III AllAmerica squads, which will be announced may 31.

Gelbsman Throws Shutout

ONEONTA—Aidan Gelbsman led the Oneonta High School baseball team to a 4-0 victory over Dryden in the Section IV Class B quarterfinals on may 22. He threw a one-hit shutout, striking out 15 batters. Bruce mistler, Kaden Halstead and Cameron Sitts each hit doubles. Owen Burnsworth knocked a solo home run in the first inning. The Yellowjackets host Chenango Forks in the semifinal on may 24.

M/E

Knocks Schenevus from Play

mORRIS—The morris/Edmeston baseball team cruised to a 6-0 victory over Schenevus in the Section IV Class D quarterfinals on may 22. Asa Dugan threw a complete-game shutout, striking out 13 batters. m/E scored five runs in the third inning after Gavin mcEnroe hit a grand slam. Tim Green of Schenevus went 3-for-3 in the loss.

Coop Golf Third at Sectional East

COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Central School golf team placed third among seven small schools at the Section III East Area Large and Small School team championship and individual section qualifier on may 22. Senior max Jones and eighth grader Brayden Sentz each shot a nineover 81, earning each a spot in the Section III State Qualifier on may 24. The Hawkeyes ended the day with 473 points. Waterville won the tournament with 446.

AllOTSEGO. dining&entertainment

JOIN US FOR

$3.50 per meal

The Senior Restaurant Dining Program offers 60+ residents a unique opportunity to enjoy a nutritious meal at a local restaurant! This program offers socialization, community engagement and the flexibility of various times and days while supporting local business. Eligibilty 60+ residents in Otsego County. Must register with Otsego County Office for the Aging by calling (607) 547-4232. Gratuity responsibility of participant

Suggested contribution: $350 per meal

Come enjoy a hot meal and the company of others at any of our dining centers throughout the county. Residents age 60 and older are encouraged to have lunch, socialize and enjoy playing cards or a board game with friends and neighbors. Reservations must be scheduled 24 hours in advance by calling (607) 547-6454.

Locations include:

Cherry Valley Community Center – Mon and Wed at 12:00pm Nader Towers Housing, Oneonta – Mon through Fri at 11:30am Richfield Springs Community Center – Tue and Thu at 11:30am

Suggested contribution: $350 per meal

Bradley

Continued from page 1

vaccinations.

Swords-Horrell was ordained on June 11, 1983 and again on June 9, 1985 and she applied her organizational skills while here. The church hired the Rev. Paul Nixon, a pastor and consultant, to begin a longrange planning process, she explained.

Swords-Horrell said the church is particularly concerned about families with small children, who are being stretched economically and socially.

“So many who are working from home are socially disconnected. Some really don’t have a family here, so the church can become their family,” she said.

Swords-Horrell and her husband are moving to Cincinnati, Ohio to join daughter maddie, 32, and spouse Ross, who will soon move from Austin, Texas to Ohio. Son Nathan, 35, and

his wife, Rio, will remain in San Francisco. Rev. marti will be feted at a Farewell Luncheon on June 11, following a 10:30 a.m. service at celebrating her retirement. The First United methodist Church is located at 66 Chestnut Street.

Waller

Continued from page 1

Trustees. Board of Trustee members received invitations to the breakfast, ceremony and luncheon. Just prior to the ceremony, Bill met and struck up a conversation with one of the television cameramen there to film the event. This particular cameraman was from NBC TV Channel 4 in New York City. As a result, Bill was invited to do an on-camera interview. The photo above captures this moment as Bill spoke. It is his understanding that a portion aired that evening in New York City.

Bill spoke about the pride that the residents of

Cooperstown had in seeing this new ship with the name of their village emblazoned on its stern. He noted that the ship was named in honor of the 70 veterans who left successful baseball careers to join the military. most notable were Bob Feller, rising to the rank of Boatswain’s mate, and Yogi Berra, recipient of two Purple Heart medals. Bill mentioned that this was probably the smallest municipality to have its name on a Navy ship. With only about 1,600 residents and one traffic light, he recalled how years ago the National Baseball Hall of Fame and museum approached then Navy Secretary Raymond mabus about the concept and it was accepted. Honoring veterans was a theme the NBHoF accentuated and it was an outgrowth of that effort, Bill said.

People came from all over the nation and even from outside of the country as they attended to see their sons and daughters crew this new vessel. During the reception,

The job scene

people mingled and spoke of the ship and the name, Cooperstown.

Pride

Continued from page 1

will be donated to the Cooperstown Central School’s Identity Alliance organization. Visitors wearing rainbow-themed clothing will receive a free soft-serve ice cream.

The weekend was organized by OPA and Identity Alliance. Identity Alliance seeks to “create space where students have a network of safe adults and peers, a place to find and secure needed resources and tools as they navigate their way.” According to a release, OPA hopes to celebrate what makes Cooperstown unique and gather the entire community to promote equality and diversity.

OPA Co-Founder and President Elayne mosher Campoli said she was grateful that the community and businesses pulled together to present a new Pride tradition.

“When we started Oneonta Pridefest in 2017, we had a vision that it would continue for years and expand throughout the county,” she said. “We’re very excited that the Village [of Cooperstown] has planned these events. It’s so good to see Pride in this area growing beyond our original network. We’re very proud of everyone who organized this.”

In addition to the aforementioned businesses and organizations, Pride Weekend is sponsored by Weinert Elk Creek Farm. For more information, visit https://www. otsegopridealliance.org/.

County

Continued from page 1

on a county-wide basis,” said David Bliss, chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives.

“Otsego County already has an overall housing shortage, and many of our social services are already overtaxed,” Bliss continued, “so it made sense to provide a vehicle to oversee this issue and prevent a further crisis from occurring.”

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The Farmers’ Museum is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time, year round position. Qualified applicants will be knowledgeable in the care and feeding of museum livestock and farm animals. They will assist with maintenance, care and upkeep of barns, outbuildings, and fencing, and with the planting, maintaining, and harvesting of field demonstration plots and gardens. Knowledge of hand operated and mechanical equipment necessary. Experience working with the public to provide a pleasant informative atmosphere. Ability to lift 50 lbs. Excellent benefit package. Covid-19 vaccination required.

Applications are available online at farmersmuseum.org or email hr@fenimoreart.org.

Bliss noted that he has been on a number of Zoom meetings with the governor, and has been advised that the social services New York City would provide to a migrant will follow that migrant to the substitute destination. For this reason, and to make sure the migrants do not place a further strain on Otsego

County’s social services, the Board of Representatives created a mandatory licensing procedure that will govern the ability to convert housing to migrant shelters.

Otsego County Emergency Order #1 designates the Department of Health as gatekeeper of the licensing procedure, since one of the triggers in increasing the number of migrants was the elimination of Title 42, which had previously allowed denial of immigrant entry into the U.S. due to COVID-19 health risks. Prior to granting a license, the DOH is required to determine that an entity such as New York City, seeking to place migrants in lodging located in Otsego County, agrees to provide for return of those migrants to the municipality of origin after 15 days. Furthermore, adequate financial assurances have to be provided to confirm the migrants will be supported during their stay.

“To sum it up,” Bliss said, “the purpose of the exercise is to avoid creating a substantial increase in homelessness in our communities, as well as to avoid having the housing of migrants be an excessive financial burden on the citizens of Otsego County. We must assure that all available state and/or federal funding accompanies any relocations so as not to deplete our already limited resources dedicated to the care of our existing homeless and distressed population.”

The Emergency Order, which would have expired on may 20, was extended for an additional five days, and can continue to be extended during the pendency of the emergency on five-day intervals unless sooner modified, extended or revoked.

The state of emergency within Otsego County continues until June 15 unless earlier rescinded or extended. The monthly meeting of the Board of Representatives scheduled for June 7 will take up the issue of the emergency declaration as well as the resulting emergency order.

Arbor Day

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mayor Ellen Tillapaugh spoke in Walrath’s memory and read the official Village Arbor Day Proclamation at the planting ceremony. more than 20 residents attended, including Walrath’s wife of 54 years, Peg. A village crew planted two eastern redbud trees on Church Street, in front of the Cooperstown Food Pantry.

Deputy mayor Cynthia Falk and Tree Advisory Committee member Peggy Poulson said the redbuds were selected for their beauty, shade, and short mature height.

“The cedars that used to be here caused some issues with the lines,” Falk said, referring to the low-hanging power and utility lines above the site.

“Redbuds won’t get so tall and they grow more slowly, so it will be many years before that becomes an issue.”

Seamon

Continued from page 2

Cooperstown has been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program since 1984. The program recognizes communities that prioritize trees and the many benefits they provide, including noise and temperature reduction, cleaner air, higher property values, and curb appeal. about her training regimen. “I have softball all week and usually basketball practice or games on the weekends. When I get home, I’m hitting every night or I’m shooting hoops in the driveway.”

Seamon praised her Cooperstown teammates and program.

“We have an impressive team, although the league as a whole is weaker than I’ve seen in my time here. Notre Dame was definitely our best competition so far,” she said, referring to the Hawkeyes’ 50 loss to Utica Notre Dame on April 22. Seamon threw 12 strikeouts in the hardfought contest.

“I’m looking forward to the stiff competition we’ll face in sectionals; we’re ready for more of a challenge.

“We’ve grown a lot as a team this year. We definitely have some underrated players; some of this can be hard to see from the statistics alone. You can always rely on Katie Crippen. Jeana [Geertgens] is very consistent, Sophia Hotaling has improved a lot and she hits the ball harder than anyone…We have a good group of hitters, very consistent,” she said. Seamon will play basketball and softball for St. John Fisher, and may be called on to pitch next season. She was accepted to the university’s pre-law program with a major in legal studies.

Inclusion

Continued from page 3

“The role of businesses and organizations in fostering a sense of belonging within a community cannot be overemphasized,” said SUNY Oneonta Chief Diversity Officer Bernadette Tiapo. “To build a thriving and more vibrant community, it is important that our students and employees, as well as residents and visitors to Oneonta feel welcome and supported by the local businesses and organizations.”

A new call for nominations will be sent to both campus communities each spring.

“We’re very excited that this will become an annual tradition,” said Hartwick Vice President for Human Resources, Inclusion and Compliance Suzanne Janitz.

The Power of the Placebo Effect, Part I: magic Feathers and medical Transparency

Dumbo! C’mon, fly! Open them ears!

The magic feather was just a gag!

You can fly! Honest, you can!”

I can recite many Disney movies almost word for word, but I also recall that the 1941 version of “Dumbo” made me acutely sad and anxious. And no wonder: a poor baby elephant with big ears is mocked by others at the circus, torn away from his mother, given hallucinogenic alcohol by his best friend and a magic feather by horribly stereotyped crows. The magic feather itself is a trick of the mind, a symbol of the powerful psychological phenomenon known as the placebo effect. Knowing more about this phenomenon can help us make more informed medical decisions and improve our mind-body connection and overall health, so grab your popcorn or peanuts and get ready to enjoy—and wince at—the circus of the human mind.

Placebo, a Latin term, literally translates to “I shall be pleasing.” Healers of all stripes have long administered placebo pills or healing treatments that pleased and comforted the patient but had no intrinsic therapeutic value. These wispy, nonmedical interventions, like Dumbo’s magic feather or cotton candy at a circus, are all fluff, yet they still harness the power of belief and expectation—for some people— to activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms—sometimes. Even if they’re therapeutically null and void, placebos can still draw out real effects in us, influencing our health outcomes.

Those real effects can linger, too. Dr. Kathryn T. Hall, in her book “Placebos” (mIT Press, 2022), says, “Even though the placebo interventions themselves have no biological qualities that would induce a physiological change, placebo effects can be long-lasting.” moreover, she adds, those effects compete with clinical benefits of active treatments. That competition has become so fierce, in fact, that pharma-

ceutical companies struggle to develop treatments that perform better than the placebo effect. It’s far easier and cheaper to market fast-acting, triple-strength, longlasting miracle cures. Homeopathic Cold Remedies! Advanced Certified Blends! Immune Support! Himalayan Salt Crystals! Healing Crystals! Essential Oils! It is a little wild to walk down the aisle at my local drugstore and see all these products and their claims.

The history of how we discovered the placebo effect is as sad as giving hallucinogenic alcohol to a baby elephant. Around the time “Dumbo” came out, during World War II, an anesthesiologist named Henry K. Beecher ran out of morphine to treat soldiers in pain. He decided to inject a harmless saline solution into his patients, telling them it was a powerful painkiller, and he found that 40 percent of the soldiers reported pain relief. This “pure placebo” did no harm but at least gave relief to 40 percent of soldiers instead of zero percent. The other 60 percent? Out of luck, man.

Intrigued by this phenomenon, however, Beecher continued his research into the placebo effect when he returned home from the war. Despite controversy over Beecher’s methods and findings, his work helped to establish the placebo effect as a legitimate subject of scientific inquiry. Beecher’s work also influenced the design of clinical trials, and now researchers use placebo-controlled trials as a way to test the efficacy of new treatments.

Since then, medical researchers—and enterprising marketers—have learned that the placebo effect can be influenced by a wide variety of factors, from the color and size of a pill to the way a healthcare provider talks to their patients. There are “pure placebos,” like sugar pills or the saline injections Beecher used, and there are “impure placebos,” like low doses of an active treatment (homeopathy),

Cultural Critic Speaks at Writers Salon

By WRILEY NELSON

ONEONTA

Cultural critic, artist and award-winning journalist Anne Elizabeth moore visited the Community Arts Network of Oneonta on may 18 to present selections from her new book. The Feminist Press at the City University of New York released a second, expanded edition of the award-winning “Body Horror: Capitalism, Fear, misogyny, Jokes,” originally published in 2017, in April.

“Body Horror” is a wide-ranging collection of essays that examine the ways consumerist capitalism assaults and exploits women’s bodies. They range from investigative journalism to corporate history to the deeply personal, such as moore’s struggles with chronic illness in a healthcare system that expends as much effort denying treatment as it does providing it. Featuring chilling illustrations by Xander marro, “Body Horror” is an impressionistic look at the “gore of American culture and politics.”

After allowing the audience time to explore CANO’s art exhibits, moore read the essay “The Shameful Legacy (and Secret Promise) of the Sanitary Napkin Disposal Bag.” It begins with the history of Lillian Gilbreth, a groundbreaking industrial psychologist and mother of 12 whose market research in the 1920s spawned the modern menstrual product industry. From there, the piece expands

to discussions of environmentalism and waste, patent law, corporate marketing strategies and incentive structures, identitarian neoliberal feminism, and the deep contradictions of an industry designed to “mask half the world from the other half.” It is a balanced and exquisitely crafted essay on political economy.

moore finished the evening by reading “Three months After Emerging from your Deathbed,” a tender and haunting meditation on mortality, gratitude, simple pleasures and the baffling compromises of friendship.

moore is a modern exemplar of the best tradition of muckraking journalism. In addition to an earlier career in comics, she has spent over a decade examining exploitative garment factory jobs in Cambodia. She is among the world’s foremost journalistic experts on intellectual property law, which she described in a 2013 “Jacobin” article as “perhaps the most influential body of legislation in the global economy.” Her wide-ranging work, she told “The Freeman’s Journal,” is unified by the question of women’s economic viability under the conditions of global neoliberal capitalism.

In a brief conversation, moore discussed her career and the process of updating a book that went out of print shortly before many of its predictions came true.

“Revising ‘Body Horror’ for 2023 didn’t take very much,” she said. “A few of the essays touched on or

vitamins, or supplements. Worst of all are poisons peddled as miracle cures— including “morphina-Cura” (1906), a mixture of morphine and heroin to help people overcome their addictions to morphine, and a deadly dose of antifreeze relabeled “Elixir Sulfanilamide” that killed 71 adults and 34 kids in 1937, which led to the creation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act in 1938.

So what happens in our brains when we partake of a placebo? Here’s what we know so far: When we believe a remedy will work, our brains release the “feelgood” neurotransmitters like endorphins and dopamine. Endorphins are natural painkillers and reduce discomfort, while dopamine is associated with reward and pleasure. In effect, our brains reward our positive expectations with feelings of pain relief and happiness. Our brains release their own painkillers, called endogenous opioids. These natural painkillers change how pain is processed in the lower parts of the brain and spine. Activating this part of the brain is like turning down the volume on a painfully loud TV.

Simultaneously, the placebo effect can increase activity in certain areas of the brain closely linked with mood, emotional reactions and self-awareness. These include regions like the prefrontal cortex, which is linked to decision-making and social behavior, and the anterior cingulate cortex, which is involved in mood and emotional regulation. When these areas show greater activity, it may lead to an enhanced sense of well-being and a more positive mood, further reinforcing the placebo effect.

Sadly, not all diseases can be improved with a placebo—especially those that aren’t controlled by the thinking parts of our brains. When we choose a placebo treatment instead of seeking better treatments with more robust studies backing

them, we’re gambling with our own health. Caretakers who promote placebo treatments for a quick potential fix or to make a quick buck can end up harming their patients.

So I’m against quacks or overly optimistic caretakers who prey on the faith of those who trust easily—especially if patients pay for expensive placebo pills or treatments instead of seeking better and more effective care. That said, I’m all for positive and honest life hacks, macGyver style. If the placebo effect is a type of health hack that can reduce pain for some people, let’s better understand it and use it—wisely—to our advantage. In fact, recent studies show that even if a caregiver actively identifies a treatment as a placebo, some patients can still experience that reduction of pain. These non-deceptive treatments are called open-label placebos.

In fact, Dr. Kathryn Hall—whose dog, her constant companion, is named Placebo—writes that patients who were given OLPs reported significant benefits in dealing with chronic low back pain, cancer-related fatigue, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and allergic rhinitis. We’re still figuring out what works and what doesn’t, but it seems honesty is still the best policy when it comes to administering placebos ethically. If Dumbo could soar to the heavens after realizing his magic feather was as magical as a rubber chicken, perhaps there’s hope for us yet. In the meantime, we’ll keep our ears open and see you next month when we dive into the fascinating world of the nocebo effect—the evil twin of the placebo. Until then, enjoy the circus of the human psyche and stay away from questionable beverages.

Jamie Zvirzdin researches cosmic rays with the Telescope Array Project, teaches science writing at Johns Hopkins University and is the author of “Subatomic Writing.”

talked about things that have since happened, so I changed the speculative phrasing to historical phrasing…I took out a piece about a superbug pandemic, because I didn’t want to confuse people about bacteria and viruses.”

Although its publisher folded shortly after printing, the first edition of “Body Horror” became an underground cult classic.

“I worked for many years in comics, and some people would camp out in front of my house waiting on comics. Even with that kind of experience, I’ve never in my life had such a positive reaction as I received in response to this book,” moore said.

Born in Winner, South Dakota, moore lived in Detroit for several years and moved to Delaware County early in the COVID-19 pandemic. The move was motivated in part by her health and by the natural beauty of the Catskills. moore said she was also interested in questions of rural housing justice and communities’ willingness to accept new members; she explored these issues in urban settings during her time in Detroit and with her previous book, “Gentrifier: A memoir.”

“Body Horror” is available wherever books are sold. moore’s current projects include the podcast “my Inevitable murder,” examining public safety in rural communities through the lens of true crime media, and a hot sauce company. For more information, visit https:// anneelizabethmoore.com.

Cooperstown District Election Results Announced

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown Central School District announced the results of its may 16 elections. Christopher Franck and Lynne mebust were elected to the Board of Education with 232 and 248 votes, respectively. Write-in candidates received eight votes. The board’s 2023-2024 budget, totaling $22,603,443.00, passed 235-42. Although most program, administrative and capital expenditures increased year-over-year, the new budget decreased employee benefit expenditures by about $350,000,00. Voters also approved a proposal to lease two 63-seat passenger buses and a 30-passenger wheelchair-equipped bus for five years. Proposals for two capital reserve funds also passed. The 2023 Transportation Reserve Fund will receive unallocated funds and state transportation aid with the intention of gathering $5,000,000.00 over 10 years to finance vehicle acquisition, including the purchase of electric school buses. The 2023 Capital Reserve Fund will finance general improvements, construction, and renovation of district buildings, facilities, and grounds. Finally, voters approved an annual appropriation of $163,947.00 to the Village Library of Cooperstown and $84,470.00 to the Kinney memorial Public Library.

LOCaLS: PEOPLE & BUSINESSES IN THE NEWS

RUGGLES ROYALTY: The finalists for this year’s Cooperstown Central School Ruggles competition were Coralise Bailey, Lily Shanker, Peter Lofrumento, Violet Gentles, Onyx Loewenguth, avery Croft, Chris Savoie, Emerson Toulson, and Vincent Koedderman. Lofrumento took first place and Bailey was second.

Photo provided

HONORARY DEGREE: at the Hartwick College 91st Commencement ceremony on may 20, an honorary degree was conferred on Francesca Zambello, artistic and general director emerita of the Glimmerglass Festival and artistic director of Washington National Opera. Zambello is pictured above with Hartwick College President darren Reisberg.

TAKE A BOW, BOWEN: Hartwick’s own Riley Bowen was one of 16 students who presented “Evil dead: The musical” alongside the SUNy Oneonta Theatre department last month. Based on the “Evil dead” franchise, the musical featured five unsuspecting college students who travel to an abandoned cabin in the woods for a weekend getaway, accidentally unleashing an evil force that turns the group into demons. Bowen played Cheryl and was the show’s choreographer.

BRONCO BESTOWALS: Twenty SUNy delhi students and three faculty/staff members received Student Life Leadership awards on Tuesday, april 11 in a recognition ceremony held at the Centennial Center in Sanford Hall on campus. The Barbara Jones Leadership awards were presented to individuals who exemplify the values of the Student Life division and who significantly contribute to improving the quality of life at SUNy delhi. Emerging Leader awards are given to students who have begun their leadership journey and whom administrators and staff hope to see develop even further. Students who received this award were divine adenekan, Christopher Bunt II, Samantha Coleman, Lizkeily disla Jimenez, dami Ibitoye, Courtney Jerabek, Clarissa LeBell, marissa Lombardi, Elizabeth martinez, Jamie Osei, albert Osterman, Jesus Peralta malena, Summer Phillip, Sabrina Richards, Julia Rios, alexis d. Schwarz, and Jessenia Soto. Three faculty and staff members, Peter Brusoe, Shawn Callahan, and Carrie Fishner, also received the award. The Laurel murphy memorial Scholarship is awarded to honor the memory of a former student and to provide financial support to a liberal arts student who has overcome challenges to achieve academic success. This year’s recipient was alexander madison. The SUNy Chancellor’s award for Student Excellence honors outstanding students who have successfully integrated academic excellence with extra-curricular and community-oriented accomplishments on campus and in the community. This award was given to Reginald Odametey and Grace Thomas.

DEAN’S DARLINGS: Two Hamilton College students from Cooperstown and one from Oneonta were named to the dean’s List for the 2022 fall semester. aben Carrington of Oneonta, a senior majoring in physics, is a graduate of Oneonta High School. Wriley Nelson, a senior majoring in government, and Piper Seamon, a junior majoring in psychology, are both graduates of Cooperstown Central School. To be named to the dean’s List, a student must have carried a course load of four or more graded credits throughout the semester and earned an average of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale.

STUDENT STANDOUTS: The SUNy Oneonta 2023 Juried Student art Show features more than 80 works by 50 talented student artists, including amy Kosina and Victoria Villaverde, both of Oneonta. The show highlights the different mediums and themes explored by students over the academic year. Prints, 3d models, clay sculptures, digital designs, photographs, drawings and mixed media make up this year’s offerings. Villaverde designed the show’s poster. Featured artwork was submitted by students and selected by art department faculty members. This year’s award winners were chosen by invited jurors President and Founder Karen Shafer and director of Program Initiatives dan O’Neil at aunt Karen’s Farm. Located in mount Vision, aunt Karen’s Farm is a quiet residency program for artists, educators, administrators, environmentalists and agrarians to incubate new work and celebrate nature. The exhibition will run through may 13 in the university’s martin-mullen art Gallery on campus.

DYNAMIC DUO: Paula Pickhardt and her son, Ryan, recently published a 100-page coffee-table-style collection of their photography. The collaboration, titled “dichotomy,” showcases each of their unique perspectives regarding the distances that separate us and that which brings us together. Paula, a resident of Town of Franklin, finds inspiration in the vastness and intricacies of nature, whereas Ryan, an architect in Chicago, finds subjects in ever-changing patterns and urban textures. Photographs of local destinations are featured throughout the book, which can be found at the Green Toad Bookstore in Oneonta and main Street Cards & Gifts in delhi.

BOOK BATTLERS: Cooperstown students traveled to the New york State museum and Library in albany on march 29 to compete in the annual Battle of the Books. according to Cooperstown Central School Librarian michelle Hitchcock, this academic competition requires participants to be able to identify quotes from the book or comments about the book. Consequently, they must know plots, characters, writing styles and context to correctly identify each book. Teams consist of four students who have read a total of 16 books for the middle school or 12 books for the high school. at the

battle, teams must buzz in to correctly identify the title and author of the book. One point is given for the correct title and one for the correct author, and incorrect answers result in the loss of points. Cooperstown’s middle-school team of annika murray, Jade Olinsky, andrew Olski and Ciaran O’Sullivan won the title and middle-school house cup. The senior high team did not make it to the finals.

CHAMBER CHAMPS: The Unadilla Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2023 award recipients. Business of the year is the Village Bountiful Community market, the Good Neighbor award goes to Robert Gipson, and mayor Jake Cotton is the recipient of the Commitment to Community award. The award dinner honoring this year’s winners will be held on Sunday, June 11 at the Pines at Covered Bridge Event Center in Unadilla. Call Linda Bickos at (607) 3692614 to make reservations.

SPECIALLY SELECTED: Works by two Otsego County artists are featured in this year’s “made in Ny 2023” exhibition on view now through may 28 at the Schweinfurth art Center, 205 Genesee Street, auburn. “When I Rule the World,” 2020, by Nancy Callahan of Gilbertsville and “Gridlock,” 2021, by Wenda Habernicht of South Worcester were among the 81 pieces by 79 artists selected for the show. a total of 329 artists submitted 480 entries for this year’s exhibit. “made in Ny” is an annual juried exhibit that features work by New york artists. Prizes will be awarded, including $1,000.00 for Best of Show. The exhibit is open to all media, such as photography, sculpture, ceramics, painting, drawing, fiber, installation, and video.

REVISED ROLE: Kelly Brooks of Cooperstown has recently been promoted by Wayne Bank to assistant community office manager of its Bank of Cooperstown. In her new role, Brooks will assist with the day-to-day operations of the Community Office. She joined Bank of Cooperstown in 2015 as a teller and has previously been promoted to a personal banker and then a branch specialist. Brooks holds a Bachelor of arts from Loyola University New Orleans. In her free time, she enjoys watercolor painting, knitting, reading, and exploring what New york State has to offer with her family. Brooks resides in Cooperstown with her husband, Greg, and their son, aidan, and is a member of the Cooperstown art association. Wayne Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Jim donnelly said, “Kelly is very deserving of this promotion. She has been with Bank of Cooperstown for over eight years now and has held several positions here. With her background and knowledge, she has been such a great asset to our team.”

FLAGLER FINALE: marena Zaczek of mount Upton was honored with a Bachelor of arts in Business administration by Flagler College at the Class of 2023 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, may 6. Flagler College is ranked #2 Best Regional College in the south by “U.S. News & World Report.” This year’s graduating class brought ideas and perspectives from across the country and world, with students from 32 states and two territories of the U.S., and more than a dozen international exchange students.

DEAN’S DUO: dystinee Rubera of Unadilla and Tinasia Knowles of Oneonta have been named to the Southern New Hampshire University Winter 2023 dean’s List. Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum gradepoint average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term are named to the dean’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired eightweek terms grouped in fall, winter/spring and summer. Southern New Hampshire University, located in manchester, New Hampshire, has been recognized as one of the “most innovative” regional universities by “U.S. News & World Report” and is said to be one of the fastest-growing universities in the country.

ARTIST ACCOLADES: The art of New york: annual Juried art Show currently on display in the Regional art Galleries of the arkell museum and Canajoharie Library features contemporary and traditional genres, oil, acrylic, gouache, and watercolor paintings, photography, and sculpture. Local artists and their works included in the show are: dianne m. Kull, Cooperstown, “a murder of Crows,” pastel/mixed media; Lee Robbins, Hartwick, “Feldspar and delft,” resin cast, glass, pigment; marie dungan, Richfield Springs, “Shadow Entities,” stoneware, mixed media; and Celia Clark, Oneonta, “meet me in St. Louis, Louie,” transparent watercolor.

PRESIDENT’S PICKS: a number of local students have been named to the Southern New Hampshire University Winter 2023 President’s List. They are: Christy Crabtree, Springfield Center; Katherine Cole, Cooperstown; morgan dutcher, milford; amanda Plows, Hartwick; and Jennifer Race, Worcester. Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer. The winter terms run from January to may.

ALTRUISTIC ALUM: Hartwick College Trustee Raymond “Larry” miller ’73 has donated nearly $2 million toward renaming the college’s living-learning apartment community in memory of his wife, dr. Judith day. The “Judith day apartments” will be officially named at a ribbon-cutting ceremony that will take place during True Blue Weekend in September, on the occasion of miller’s Golden Jubilee (50th Class Reunion). “Time and again, Larry miller has shown steadfast dedication to his alma mater,” said President darren Reisberg. “Whether through board service, cheering on our athletic teams, or making remarkably generous gifts to support the college’s mission, Larry’s commitment to Hartwick is nearly unrivaled in our 225-year history. His desire to have the college name its newest residence hall in honor of his beloved wife, Judith, will provide a symbol for the Hartwick community that affirms his spirit, leadership and devotion to the college.” Later this year, miller’s generous support of his alma mater will again manifest when the college installs a new electronic scoreboard at Wright Stadium.

Photo provided PAULA AND RYAN PICKHARDT

Photo provided KELLY BROOKS

Continued from page 4

as county government creates ways to prevent private lodging establishments from renting to people of color, in this case defined by their immigration status (or lack thereof).

No one would deny that federal immigration policy is long overdue for reform. However, I had hoped for more from my county leadership. Declaring a housing emergency as a way to stop Central American migrants from arriving locally is shortsighted and discriminatory. As to legality, we will have to wait on the courts. Rockland and Orange counties are already being sued. Just a decade ago, a federal appellate court ruled that Hazleton, Pennsylvania’s ban on residents renting to undocumented tenants illegally usurped federal authority to regulate immigration.

In Yonkers, the federal segregation case of the 1980s took decades to resolve and the stain on that community is permanent. Perhaps creative minds will find alternatives to exclusion more quickly in this case.

Cindy

Local Riders Complete Endurance Ride

Kylie Robinson, Lucky Jody Bring Home Junior Division Award

ASHEVILLE, NC

Nine-year-old Kylie Robinson and her grandmother, Pat Robinson, both of Oneonta, competed recently in the 27th annual Biltmore Challenge Endurance Rides. Hosted by the Biltmore Equestrian Center on the grounds of George Vanderbilt’s historic Biltmore Estate on Friday, may 5 and Saturday, may 6, the American Endurance Ride Conference event is comprised of a series of rides ranging from 25-100 miles.

Kylie, riding Lucky Jody, finished first in the Junior Division on Friday in the challenging limited distance course of 25 miles, one minute before the second-place junior competitor.

“Fifty-six riders started the race, but only 66 percent finished,” Pat wrote in an e-mail account of the event. “We rode together throughout, as children must be accompanied by an adult. I completed last in the Adult Division although we were five minutes apart in our pulse downs at the vet stop.”

The 25-mile race must be completed under six hours, Pat explained.

“A good part of it is done at speed following an unknown trail marked by arrows or ribbon, up and down hills with sharp turns, through

OBITUARIES

Lee and Grace Patricia (Davidson) Sheldon. He attended Cooperstown Central School and graduated with the Class of 1973.

On November 10, 1979, he was joined in marriage to Jane marie morris in a ceremony at St. mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown. They moved to Hemlock Hill Farm in 1986 and raised four loving and strong-willed children in an idyllic country setting.

Gerold D. Hill

1945-2023

FREDERICKSBURG, VA—Gerold D. Hill, 78, of Homosassa, Florida and formerly of Portlandville, New York, passed away on April 15, 2023 in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Gerold served for 30 years in the United States Navy. He was a retired chief petty officer and served in Vietnam. He was the owner/ operator of Jerry’s Bait-nTackle from 1988 to 2008. Gerold enjoyed spending his time with family, hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his four children: Tammie (Jim) Brown of Otego; Charles (Natalie) Hill of Fredericksburg, Virginia; Sandi (Jim) Rowe of Oneonta; and Anthony (Courtney) Hill of Chili, New York. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Donald (Seneca) Brown; Kay-Lyne (Jeremiah Craver) Brown; Breanna and Garret Hill; Lilli, Lewis, and Liam Rowe; and Lucy and madison Hill; and three great-grandchildren, Haley, Hayden, and miah.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosanne Hill, his parents and his siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, may 27 at the American Legion #259 in Oneonta, 279 Chestnut Street, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with military honors at noon.

Stephen L.

Sheldon

1955-2023

HARTWICK—Stephen

Lee Sheldon, a lifelong area resident, passed away Wednesday, may 17, 2023, at Bassett medical Center in Cooperstown. He was 67.

Born July 1, 1955 in Cooperstown, Steve was one of four sons of William

Steve was a dedicated family man, always wanting to know how his children and the extended family were doing.

Steve was known for his wisdom, witty sense of humor, charm, and propensity for storytelling. He had a profound love and respect for nature and was a man of many interests throughout his life, including drawing, architecture, landscaping, construction, auto racing, hiking, rock climbing, camping, skiing, and grilling. He was an active Assistant Scout master in the Boy Scouts of America’s Troop 1254 throughout the 1990s, sharing his skills with the next generation. many will remember Steve for his time in the truck division at Smith Ford in Cooperstown, where he was always working hard to help municipalities and members of the community.

Steve is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jane m Sheldon of Hartwick; their four children and spouses, William and Lauren Sheldon of Rotterdam, Lindsey and John Havlik of Cooperstown, Stephanie and Randy Garrett of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Erin and Robert Ives of Schuylerville; two grandsons, Henry Charles and Levon Scott Sheldon; his three brothers, David H. and Glenda Sheldon and Gregory

W. and Elizabeth Sheldon of Norwich and Scott G. and Colleen Sheldon of milford, Pennsylvania and Cooperstown; and his many beloved nieces and nephews.

As an alternative to flowers, the Sheldon family would appreciate a memorial donation to Cooperstown’s Boy Scout Troop 1254, c/o Diana Nicols, 742 County Highway 59, Cooperstown, NY 13326, or the Hartwick Fire Department Company No. 1, PO Box 86, Hartwick, NY 13348.

Family and friends are invited to call and pay their respects from 10 a.m. until noon on Friday, may 26, 2023, at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

Jeffrey R. Smith

1963-2023

COOPERSTOWN—

Jeffrey Richard Smith of Cooperstown and Venice, Florida, son of Gayle and Jack Smith of Cooperstown, entered into eternal rest Wednesday night, march 1, 2023, at Sarasota memorial Hospital in North Venice, Florida following an extended illness. He was 60.

Born February 26, 1963

in Little Falls, Jeff graduated from Cooperstown Central School where he was a proud “Redskin” participating in many sports. He then attended Fordham University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business.

For over 20 years, Jeff owned and operated Smitty’s Pit Bar & Grille and the Pig & Pickerel Pub on Washington Avenue in Albany. He ran his business as a family, lending a hand to employees and customers when they were down on their luck.

An ardent life-time fan of the New York Yankees, Jeff also loved golf, and was proud of once having a holein-one on the ninth hole at The Leatherstocking Golf Course. He will be remembered for his enthusiasm, for being quick-witted and for possessing a unique sense of humor. A good story, a good laugh and the Budweiser song were things he relished throughout his life. He drank tea, not coffee in the morning, and other things later in the day.

Throughout his life he reinvented himself several times over, at times defying medical and professional advice, and even likely outcomes. In the end, Jeff faced death as he often faced life…without fear, and on his own terms.

Jeff is survived by his mother and father, Gayle and Jack Smith of Cooperstown; his three children, of whom he was quite proud and cherished any contact, Whitney and Allyson of Albany and Zachary of Texas; four sisters, Abbie Ashford of Old Cottonwood, Arizona, Amy Smith of Stuart, Florida, Emily Smith of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Veronica Harris and husband Jeffrey of Aspinwall, Pennsylvania;

fields and along roads, and past fields of farm animals. Horses must be able to tolerate all these obstacles and continue on,” she wrote. “The horse must be able to pass two vet checks and cannot be considered for a completion award unless they are healthy and not lame or injured in any way.”

According to Pat, Kylie has been riding since she was just three years old and she also takes equestrian vaulting lessons. Kylie’s mount in Asheville was Lucky Jody, a 16-year-old Kentucky mountain gaited saddle horse owned by her grandmother. Pat rode Tequila Sue.

Pat, who is 74, said her longest distance in a single day was 25 miles, pre-pandemic. She has previously completed 100 miles over three days, with Lucky Jody winning the grand championship for best condition.

Kylie, the daughter of Sara and Jeffrey Robinson, said of her award, “I was very excited that I won, and I felt very, very good about myself. It took a lot of work, and I was very proud of myself.”

Photos (provided): At top left, Pat Robinson and Tequila Sue. Bottom left, Kylie Robinson rides Lucky Jody along the course. Above, Kylie proudly displays her award.

Karen of Delhi; three aunts, Sondra Failing of Fort Plain, mary Buckley of Little Silver, New Jersey, and Vera Quigley and husband Robert of Cooperstown; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, may 27, 2023, at St. mary’s “Our Lady of the Lake” Roman Catholic Church in Cooperstown, with The Very Reverend michael G. Cambi, pastor, presiding.

two brothers, Sean Smith of Lawton, Oklahoma and Norton Smith and wife Kimberly of malibu, California; two uncles, Gary L. Shults and wife Helen of Canajoharie and manly E. Shults and wife

In honor of Jeff, pay a kindness forward.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.

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

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

Photo provided GEROLD D. HILL

Photo provided STEPHEN L. SHELDON

Photo provided JEFFREY R. SMITH

Falk Cooperstown

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SUPREmE COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OTSEGO

INDEX NO.

EF2022-793

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

mortgaged Premises: 39 RIVER STREET, RICHFIELD SPRINGS, NY 13439

Section: 24.08, Block: 1, Lot: 27.00

mORTGAGE ASSETS

mANAGEmENT, LLC Plaintiff, vs.

BONNIE L.

HOUGHTALING

STARR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE

A. ARmSTRONG; SANDRA K. mAX-

SON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBU-

TEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE

A. ARmSTRONG; JOAN AmES, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE A. ARmSTRONG;

HAROLD ARmSTRONG, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBU-

TEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE

A. ARmSTRONG; KENNETH ARmSTRONG, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE

A. ARmSTRONG; PATRICIA LYNN

RAY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE A. ARmSTRONG; BRENDA J. ELmER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE A. ARmSTRONG;

UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF mAXINE A. ARmSTRONG, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown

to plaintiff; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPmENT; OTSEGO COUNTY DEPARTmENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTmENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AmERICA, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

Plaintiff designates OTSEGO as the place of trial situs of the real property

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUmmONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $112,500.00 and interest, recorded on December 05, 2011, in Instrument Number 2011-5679, of the Public Records of OTSEGO County, New York., covering premises known as 39 RIVER STREET, RICHFIELD SPRINGS, NY 13439.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

OTSEGO County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: may 12, 2023

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff

matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 4LegalJun.15

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS AND SECTION 106 NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT DETERMINATION may 25, 2023 New York State Homes & Community Renewal New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC) 38-40 State Street Albany, New York 12207 (518) 474-6677

This Notice shall satisfy the abovecited separate but related procedural notification requirements.

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or about June 2, 2023, the New York State Homes & Community Renewal (HCR), through the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC), will submit a request to U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of 88,466.24 in HOmE funds under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Afford-

able Housing Act (NAHA) of 1990, in accordance with section 288 (42 U.S.C. 12838), to authorize Otsego Rural Housing Assistance, Inc. to undertake a project known as Otsego County Home Rehab 2021 – 103 Holl Road Pittsfield, for the purpose of replacing a dilapidated mobile home unit with a new mobile home unit at 103 Holl Road, Pittsfield, Otsego County, NY with an estimated total project cost of approximately $130,000.

The activities proposed are Categorically Excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act requirements. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at:

An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this program is available and may be obtained by emailing John. leahy@hcr.ny.gov.

SECTION 106

NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACT DETERmINATION

As a part of its responsibilities under 36 CFR Part 800, the regulations implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (Section 106), as amended, HCR, in consultation with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), acting as the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), and other consulting parties that indicated an interest in consultation, including Tribal Historic Preservation Offices (THPO), has determined that no historic properties, including archeological and/or historic resources, will be affected by this undertaking. This information is available for public review in the ERR, as described above.

PUBLIC COmmENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to John Leahy by Email to John. leahy@hcr.ny.gov.

All comments received by June 1, 2023 will be considered by HCR prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which part of this Notice they are addressing.

ENVIRONmENTAL CERTIFICATION

HCR certifies to HUD that mr. John Leahy., in his capacity as Certifying Officer consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal

Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied.

HCR’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows Otsego Rural Housing Assistance, Inc. to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and HCR’s certification received by June 19, 2023 or for a period of fifteen days following its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of HCR; (b) HCR has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the project have committed funds, incurred costs, or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed and sent via email to Abigail Ford, Director HUD-Community Planning and Development 26 Federal Plaza - Room 3513 New York, New York 10278-0068

Abigail.G.Ford@ hud.gov

Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

mr. John Leahy

Certifying Officer may 25, 2023

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF WOODSIDE PROPERTY SERVICES LLC .

Filed: 3/17/23 .

Office: Otsego Co. Org. in DELAWARE: 07/29/2022. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to its foreign add: 16192 Coastal Hwy, Lewes, DE 19958. Arts. of Org. filed with Secretary Of State Jeffrey W. Bullock, 401 Federal St., Ste 3, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: General.

6LegalJun.29

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NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Turner Electric, LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 4/14/2023. Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 333 State Highway 7 Sidney, NY 13838.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalJun.22

LegaL nOtice NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Chestnut Hill Estates, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on 7/6/2021. The office of the LLC is to be located in Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him to: The LLC, 832 Winney Hill Rd., Oneonta, NY 13820. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

6LegalJun.22

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.

6LegalJun.15

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.

6LegalJun.11

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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.

6LegalJun.15

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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.

6LegalJun.15

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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.

6LegalJun.15

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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. 6LegalJun.08

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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. 6LegalJun.08

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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. 6LegalJun.08

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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.

6LegalJun.01

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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 6LegalJun.01

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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 LegaL nOtice

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 LegaL nOtice

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. continued Pg. 10 from Pg. 9 SSNY shall mail process to 49 main St., Schenevus, NY 12155, which is also the principal business location.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6Legalmay.25

HISTORY PADDLE The Unadilla Historical Association invites the community on a canoe trip along the Susquehanna River on June 17. Before the paddle begins, fuel up with a light breakfast and a tour of the Zaveral Racing Equipment factory. During the trip, organizers will present on the history of the river, there will be a stop for lunch at the Muddy River Brewery, and the day will end at the Route 7 Fishing Access. Food and memorabilia provided with registration. Rain or shine. Cost, $50/paddler.

Registration required by May 31. (607) 547-4200.

KID GARDEN Noon to 4 p.m. Stop at the Cooperstown Kid Garden to help plant the garden, find extra seedlings for sale and more. All funds raised go back into the garden. Cooperstown Central School. (973) 309-6738.

CHALLENGE BOOK CLUB

3:30-5 p.m. Children aged 11-14 are invited to book club exploring all 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, more. Learn how to discuss 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 destress, enjoy a snack, play games with peers in a safe environment. Held Tuesdays & Thursdays at the Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs.

Visit richfieldspringscommunitycenter.org/programs/

BASEBALL FILM 5:30 p.m. Enjoy screening of “It

Ain’t Over,” about Hall of Fame catcher Yogi Berra, from his time in the Navy to catching for the Yankees in 10 World Series wins, and his career after playing. Documentary features interviews with Derek Jeter, Joe Torre, Mariano Rivera, many others.

Followed by Q&A with Hall of Famer and fellow Yankees legend Jim Kaat, film producers Michael Sobiloff and Peter Sobiloff, and others. Reservations required. Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown. (607) 547-7200.

TOASTMASTERS 6:157:30 p.m. Join the Oneonta Toastmasters to practice your public speaking in a supportive environment. Meets each 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month and may be attended in person or online. Held at The Green Earth, 4 Market Street, Oneonta. Visit facebook.com/OneontaToastmasters BEEKEEPING 7 p.m.

Join the Leatherstocking Beekeepers’ Association for this month’s meeting featuring member Richard Burroughs presenting on “Inspecting your Hive Frames; Essentials for Evaluating an Installed Nuc Colony” and guest speaker Mike Johnston of Johnston’s Honey Bee Farm in Eaton, NY, presenting “Package Bee, Nuc and Queen Production.” Held at The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. Visit leatherstockingbeekeepers.com

WORD THURSDAY 7 p.m.

Enjoy a presentation from featured writers Bertha Rogers and Richard Levine, recipient of the 2021 Connecticut Poetry Society Award. Registration required. Presented by the Bright Hill Press and Literary

Center, Treadwell. (607) 8295055.

TALKING OPERA 7 p.m. Join Glimmerglass Festival Music Director Joseph Colaneri for a discussion on “Candide,” which he is conducting. Held at Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. E-mail guild.of.glimmerglass. festival@gmail.com

►Friday, May 26

GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA Held May 2628. Be a part of the world’s longest single-day flat water canoe race as a paddler or a spectator. The 70-mile race begins at Brookwood Point on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown and continues down the Susquehanna River to General Clinton Park in Bainbridge. This event has grown to include a 5K run, shorter canoe races, carnival rides, a wrestling tournament and much more. Check out the schedule at canoeregatta. org/events.php

SPRING INTO SUMMER

Enjoy a three-day festival, May 26-29, celebrating the start of summer. Visit garage sales, find fun items at the street vendors, enjoy food from food trucks and local restaurants, get deals from local businesses, enjoy live music and dancing, celebrate the return of the Revolutionary War Clock to the Cherry Valley Museum, and enjoy the Memorial Day Parade. Cherry Valley. Visit CherryValley.com

BASEBALL FILM 11 a.m. Enjoy a screening of the 5th episode of the ESPN series “Bananaland” followed by a Zoom Q&A session with founder of the Savannah Bananas team Jesse Cole. Reservations required. Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown. (607) 547-7200.

FIREPIT FRIDAY 7-10 p.m. Get the friends together for music, a bonfire and some beer. This week, the music is provided by folk Americana band The Rollin Rust. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 544-1800.

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, movie nights, and more also offered. Held at The Richfield Springs Community Center, 6 Ann Street, Richfield Springs. richfieldspringscommunitycenter. org/the-zone/

►s aTurday, May 27

BOATING SAFETY 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 8-hour course teaches the basics of safe and responsible boating. From the rules of the nautical road, basic boating skills, required safety equipment, special boating activities and more. Participants must be aged 10+. All who complete will receive their Safe Boating Certificate. Free. Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown. Register at register-ed.com/events/ view/198554

MARKET OPENING 9 a.m.

to 1 p.m. The Eastern Otsego Farmers’ Market celebrates its 2023 opening day featuring food trucks, produce, art, music, baked goods and more. Held at 8498 State Highway 7, Schenevus. culinaryanthropology@gmail.com

MEMORIAL 5K 9 a.m. to noon. Celebrate the life of Andy Jones, an active member of the Milford Fire Department who passed away unexpectedly in January. Participate in the run and raise funds for the new annual scholarship that will go to a graduating Milford senior who plans to continue in community service. Held at Wilber Park, Dave West Drive, Milford. Visit andyjonesmemorial5k.itsyourrace.com/event. aspx?id=15643

OPENING DAY 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hyde Hall reopens for the season, featuring house tours all day, gift shop, and various events throughout the season from ghost tours to country dances, concerts, and more. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.

PLANT SALE 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m. Get an early start on the garden. Find over 500 heritage plants for sale at The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.

ARTIST DEMONSTRA -

TION 11 a.m. Join Seneca artist Cliff Redeye III for a demonstration of hand-tooled leatherwork. Redeye is known for his hand-tooled leather wallets, purses, hats, bolos, moccasins, belts and custom commissions. Admission, $8/ adult. Iroquois Museum, 324 Caverns Road Howes Cave. (518) 296-8949.

ART CLASS 1-3 p.m.

Learn to make your own jewelry in the workshop, “Jewelry Needle Felting with Andre Jones,” and make a beaded bracelet through the wet felting process. Cost, $30, includes materials. Reservations required, must be aged 12+. 25 Main Collective, 25 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-5340.

LEGENDS GAME

1:05 p.m. The classic game returns for its 13th season, featuring Hall of Famers and recently-retired players in a seven-inning game. Cost, $15 for baseline seats. Doubleday Field, Cooperstown. (407) 564-8059.

WRITERS GROUP

1:30 p.m. Join online group to work on writing prompts, share current work and get some feedback. Presented by the Huntington Memorial Library, Oneonta. Register at hmlwriters@gmail.com

CONCERT 4 p.m. Enjoy a concert of electro-pop and stripped down country music with The Nude Party, known for their “energy and irreverent wit…and a musical and lyrical ambition that makes them one of the best under-30 rock bands around.” (Paste Magazine.) General admission, $25. The West Kortright Centre, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith. (607) 278-5454.

EXHIBIT TOUR 5:30-7 p.m. Join photographer Stephen Wilkes for an exclusive, in person, after-hours tour of his exhibit, “Day-To-Night,” in which Wilkes captured the best images from a location over 24 hours and seamlessly merged the photographs. Features images from famous

locations in NYC, Venice, the Grand Canyon and more. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 5471400.

►sunday, May 28

QUEER SOLIDARITY

STROLL 10 a.m. to noon.

Start Pride Month a little early. Light hike gives time to connect to nature and other queer people. Make new friends, swap tips on genderaffirming gear, share fun trails or just enjoy a good walk. No gear required other than sneakers, water and a snack. Free. Meet at Robert V. Riddell State Park, Davenport. (607) 375-7280.

PLANT SALE 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Get an early start on the garden. Find over 500 heritage plants for sale at The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 5471450.

HISTORY SOCIETY

2 p.m. Join the Town of Maryland Historical Society for a field trip to the Worcester Historical Society museum and enjoy a guided tour of the displays, artifacts, and special collections, with a presentation on the history of the museum and the historical society. A business meeting will follow. Worcester Historical Society Museum, 144 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 435-5849.

►Monday, May 29

DINE FOR A CAUSE

Each

Monday and Tuesday through June 6, eat out at Eighty Main and a percentage of the proceeds will go to support local non-profit, Helios Care. Eighty Main, 80 Main Street, Delhi. (607) 432-6773.

MEMORIAL DAY 10 a.m. Commemorate our country’s fallen soldiers. The day will begin with a parade (lineup at 9 a.m. and step off at 10), to commemorate Chief Warrant Officer 3 Christopher Robert Eramo. A riderless horse will be included as a salute to the fallen, with CWO3 Shawn Hubner, who serves in the deceased’s unit, hand carrying the battalion colors from Fort Wainwright to Oneonta and marching in the honor guard. After the parade will be a ceremony of remembrance at 11 a.m. on the Veterans Memorial Walkway in Neahwa Park. Parade held on Main Street, Oneonta. POETRY WORKSHOP 7-9 p.m. Learn how you can make stronger poems that afford readers deeper images, inference and connection with Georgia Popoff. This class, all about revising your poems, is held each Monday from May 29 through July 18. Cost, $250. Registration required, limited seats. Presented by the Bright Hill Press & Literary Center, Treadwell. (607) 829-5055.

►Tuesday, May 30

DINE FOR A CAUSE

Each Tuesday through May 31, eat out at Social Eats Project 607 and a percentage of the proceeds will go to raise awareness of and support for local non-profit Helios Care. Social Eats Project 607, 546 Main Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-6773.

COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS 8-9 a.m. Join the community to discuss Oneonta’s past, present and future. No agenda, just informal, nonpartisan conversation about Oneonta. All welcome. Held each Tuesday in The Green Earth, 4 Market Street, Oneonta.