The Freeman's Journal 06-01-23

Clark Foundation Grants Support Continued HAB Testing by BFS

ONEONTA

Generous new grants from The Clark Foundation will allow researchers at SUNY Oneonta’s Biological Field Station in Cooperstown to continue to monitor and study the presence of harmful algal blooms on Otsego Lake, just in time for the summer season.

Earlier this spring, The Clark Foundation Board of Directors approved a grant with two components to the State University at Oneonta Foundation: a grant of $100,000.00 payable over two years to the BFS for general support, and a grant of $85,000.00 payable over two years for intensive monitoring and testing of harmful algal blooms. These “blooms,” known as HABs, occur when colonies of algae and cyanobacteria grow out of control and produce toxins that can make people and animals very sick.

The Clark Foundation is providing a oneto-one match for charitable donations to the BFS, up to $25,000.00. These funds will help to underwrite the cost of conducting intensive year-round monitoring and testing for the toxins associated with the cyanobacteria, as well as correlating the data with the distribution and abundance of the bacterium itself. To be included in the one-to-one match, gifts must be received by December 1 and can be made at https://suny.oneonta.edu/give or by check made payable to SUNY Oneonta Foundation and mailed to SUNY Oneonta, Division of University Advancement, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Following an unprecedented increase in HABs on Otsego Lake last year, BFS staff and students have closely monitored the blooms in an effort to better understand them and share that knowledge via the BFS website with the community, mitigating risk as well

as concern. This is the second large grant the Biological Field Station has received related to HABs.

“The Clark Foundation’s support for these efforts assures that the public will routinely receive information on the concentration of the toxins associated with cyanobacteria at selected regions in Otsego Lake, both at the surface and in deeper waters, as well as meeting our obligations to the community by adhering to the ‘Plan for the Management Otsego Lake Watershed’ created in 1998, and updated in 2007, and our mission to serve the region by working to preserve the quality of life for those who use our aquatic resources recreationally and economically,” said Dr. Bill Harman—distinguished service professor of biology, Rufus J. Thayer Otsego Lake Research chair, and director of SUNY Oneonta’s BFS. “It is also important to acknowledge the citizens, environmental organizations and municipalities contributing to these efforts.”

Continued on page 11

Kirkby Keeps Coop in Sectionals Tournament

By WRILEY NELSON COOPERSTOWN

Memorial Day Weekend 2023 Highlights

OTSEGO COUNTY—Municipalities throughout Otsego County held parades on Monday, May 29 to honor and mourn military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. At top, representatives of American Legion Post 579, Cooperstown, deliver remarks in remembrance of fallen service members before a wreath laying ceremony (photo by Wriley Nelson). Above, Oneonta celebrated one of its own this year, fallen Army officer Christopher Eramo. Read more on page 11 (photo by Joel Plue). The 61st annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta was held May 26-28. The 70-mile race on Sunday began just north of the Village of Cooperstown at Brookwood Point and finished in Bainbridge. For complete race results, visit https:// www.canoeregatta.org/race/results.php (photo below by Joan Dubhuir).

page 10

►Vanwie building to be reHabbed, page 10

►museum boasts new bit of CV History, page 10

The Cooperstown Central School softball team put up a balanced performance in an exciting extra-inning win over Thousand Islands on Thursday, May 25 to advance to the Section III Class C semifinals. Each member of the lineup held their own against an intimidating Thousand Islands pitcher and senior Dani Seamon recorded an impressive full game in the circle, but it was senior Savannah Kirkby who stole the show.

The Hawkeyes scored three runs in the second inning after Kirkby doubled

and sophomore Brenna Seamon was hit by a pitch. Both scored after sophomore Emmy Lippitt smashed a hit into center field and doubled on a fielding error. Sophomore Grace Sperry batted in Lippitt. Thousand Islands scored twice in the fourth on a walk and fielder’s choice after Seamon hurt her ankle pitching. The Vikings went scoreless in the next two innings. Kirkby caught a bunt in the top of the fifth, beginning a textbook double play with two runners on base and one out. Seamon struck out three back-to-back in the sixth. With two outs, Thousand Islands scored

Continued on page 11

Photo provided

Biological Field Station Research Support Specialist Holly Waterfield conducts harmful algal bloom testing on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown.

Memorial Golf Tourney is Sunday

RICHFIeLD SPRInGS

More than $1,000.00 in prizes are being offered at this year’s Lyn edinger Memorial Golf Tournament scheduled for Sunday, June 4 at the Meadow Links Golf Course, 476 County Highway 27, Richfield Springs. The golf tournament is the primary fundraiser for the Cooperstown Rotary Foundation, a nonprofit, tax deductible organization. Funds from the tournament support community programs including the Michael Mayne Scholarship

at Otsego northern Catskills BOCeS and donations to the local food pantry.

Tee time is 1 p.m., with teams competing in a captain and crew format on the 18hole course. The entry fee of $60.00 per person includes the cart and greens fee plus food and beverages at the awards ceremony and reception following play. Cash and gift certificate prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third places as well as a $25.00 “Closest to the Pin” prize and a $500.00 “Hole in One” prize.

Individuals and businesses

are welcome to sponsor a hole on the course for $100.00 or make a donation to the auction, which will take place following the picnic dinner at the pavilion. Hole sponsors will have their name featured on the hole of their choice and, along with auction donors, will be recognized at the awards ceremony and in tournament advertising. For more information on the Cooperstown Rotary Foundation or to sign up for the golf tournament, contact ellen Tillapaugh at (607) 547-5646 or cooperstownrotaryfoundation@gmail.com.

Popular Duck Derby Returns This Weekend

OneOnTA—The Family Resource network has announced the post-COVID return of its annual Duck Derby, to be held on Saturday, June 3 from noon to 3 p.m. The derby features multiple heats of rubber duck racing on Mill Creek, face painting, music, and make-and-take crafts. There will be cash prizes for the top finishers in each race. Ducks can be purchased on the day of the event or ahead of time at FRn, 48 Oneida Street. The ducks are $5.00 each or 6 for $20.00. For more information or to get involved, contact the FRn at (607) 432-0001 and ask for Kristin. To reserve a space for an agency table, contact kwinn@familyrn.org.

Sponsors, Donors Sought in Conjunction with SQSPCA Benefit event

By DARLA M. YOUnGS COOPeRSTOWn

Coming off its most successful year ever of aiding homeless and surrendered animals, and those seized by law enforcement, the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is seeking sponsors and selling tickets for its first Helping Paws Fashion Show and Benefit to be held on Thursday, June 8 at The Otesaga Resort Hotel.

The SQSPCA’s intake numbers have been increasing every year since 2015 and, in 2022, the shelter cared for a record number of animals— just shy of 1,500. This year’s numbers are already slightly ahead of last year’s, with 541 intakes thus far including the feline low-cost spay/neuter clinics. While animals cared for and rehomed by the SQSPCA are predominantly cats and dogs, 2023 intakes to date have also included bearded dragons, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses, hamsters, a cockatoo, and 15 parakeets.

“As the demand for our services continues to increase, expenses also continue to rise,” said SQSPCA executive Director Stacie Haynes.

“This is the shelter’s first major benefit. Our hope is that the community continues to recognize the importance of the SQSPCA and the work performed by our dedicated staff, and will help support that work by sponsoring the fashion show, attending the event, and through the special adoption-level donations associated with this fundraising effort,” Haynes said.

The evening will begin with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at 5 p.m. followed by remarks from Haynes at 5:30. Models will then strut the catwalk in The Otesaga’s ballroom bedecked in fashions from a number of local apparel and accessory stores, including Kate’s Upstate, Lake Classic Outfitters and the SQSPCA’s own new Leash on Life Thrift Shop, among others.

Helping Paws Fashion

Show and Benefit Committee members are elaine Bresee

Mercedes Gotwald, Meg Kiernan, Paula newman, Van Broughton Ramsey and India elting Robért. Gotwald and Kiernan are co-chairs of the event.

As mentioned by Haynes, there are multiple ways in which the public can support the animal shelter through this event, whether as sponsors, audience members or by making an adoption-level donation.

The “Top Dog!” sponsorship level is $1,500.00, which includes membership in the SQSPCA Helping Paws Society, recognition on signage and in the program, and VIP seating for up to

four attendees.

“Plus, sponsors at this level get to design a specialty cocktail in honor of their pet,” Haynes said.

“Helping Paws” level sponsorship is $1,250.00, and includes Helping Paws Society membership, signage and program recognition, and VIP seating for two.

General admission is $50.00 per person with seating on a first come, first served basis.

“Adoption-level donations are another way for folks to donate to the shelter as part of this benefit,” Haynes explained. “There are three levels: Adopt a Dog at $500.00, Adopt a Cat at $300.00 and Adopt a Rabbit

at $200.00.”

Adoption-level donations include recognition on signage and on the fashion show program, and general admission for three, two, and one attendees, respectively.

“These donations support the care of all animals and services provided, including but not limited to intake, medical treatment, kennel care, and adoption counseling,” Haynes explained.

The SQSPCA continues to improve and increase its services each year in areas other than intake and animals cared for. The shelter’s average length of stay for animals under its care as of May 29 was just 17 days, down from an average of 23.2

The job scene

days during the same time period last year. A recently expanded foster program also gets animals out of the shelter and into homes as they await their forever homes.

Those interested in spon-

soring, donating, or purchasing tickets for the Helping Paws Fashion Show and Benefit should contact Sarah Wilcox at (607) 547-8111, extension 106, or swilcox@sqspca.org no later than June 6.

The Farmers’ Museum has an opening for:

Farmer

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.

EDITORIAL

On Being Polite

Since the pandemic, and probably a bit before it, our once-comfortable world has been in a constant state of change. For some of us this is a very good thing; for others, possibly those of an older vintage, such changes are at times more difficult to understand. In the end, though, change is a good thing. It means we are learning, growing, improving and, at the very least, thinking, although we may not particularly agree with the particular change at hand.

One change, however, has not been particularly well received by some of us at “The Freeman’s Journal”/ ”Hometown Oneonta”: the redirection, or reuse, or near demise, of the term polite. In fact, the meaning of the word is, according to a plethora of sources, “Having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people; marked by a lack of roughness or crudity; civil; courteous; kind; behaving in a way that is socially correct and shows understanding and care for the feelings of other people; well-behaved; turning the other cheek; good manners; diplomatic; respectful; conciliatory; showing regard for others in manners, speech, behavior; able to admit graciously to being wrong; disagree without rancor .…”

Etymologically, the word polite is from the Latin word politus, meaning to polish, refine or smooth. It first appeared in late Middle English in the 1500s. Today, it still means refined and polished, but its use seems to be disappearing, as we daily face instances of its antonym, impolite, “not polite or courteous; rude; selfish; aloof; antagonistic; disagreeable; disrespectful; callous; cold; thoughtless; unfriendly; unkind; uncivil.”

Here in Otsego County, most of the towns and villages, and the City of Oneonta, have legally set speed limits at 30, with varying more reduced limits—down to 15 in front of schools—in areas with sharp turns, steep ascents, many children or dense population. In all cases, speed limit signs and/or radar speed signs are well placed to alert drivers to slow down. Very often these limits are abused, and that’s not fair to our dog-walkers, dogs, neophyte bicyclists, runners, and baby walkers.

We are on the brink of a major summer tourist influx, and with it some overburdened streets and overpopulated sidewalks. Many of the streets, most of which have been here for more than two centuries, are so narrow that our 21st-century automobiles cannot pass each other for fear of losing a mirror or two. It’s nice when one of the drivers politely pulls aside to let the other by, and it’s even nicer when the one who gets away sends up a gesture of thanks.

The same goes with our well-defined street crossings and lights, which are not always strictly adhered to by pedestrians and their children who, in their cityrefined habit of rushing, tend to cross at will. Watch out for these people, but still welcome their occasionally uttered words of thanks.

The words thank you cannot be spoken enough. Nor can unselfish actions, courteous gestures and respectful mannerisms garner enough praise and, in fact, thanks. In the words of our beloved Eeyore, “A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.”

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.

Smart Meters Coming Soon, But Are They Safe?

Most homeowners are familiar with the analog meters provided by utility companies, read monthly or bi-monthly by an employee of the company. Smart meters, on the other hand, are two-way communication devices that use technology—radiofrequency waves, a form of electromagnetic radiation energy—to transmit energy consumption data to a central computer at the utility company. According to NYSEG, Smart Meters will roll out here in our county sometime in 2025.

Global penetration of smart meters has reached an estimated 14 percent. Utility companies—including NYSEG—will undoubtedly state there is no health risk. However, today’s reports from credible sources are troubling, if not conflicting. Smart meters appear to be a way for utility companies to eliminate jobs while giving the utility provider a minute-by-minute picture of how their products are used. They’re not being installed for consumers’ convenience and may, in some cases, have negative health consequences.

At their nyseg.com website, NYSEG (owned by AVANGRID, a subsidiary of Iberdrola in Spain) presents disinformation, and their mention of “cybersecurity” threats is deliberately misleading as well— not to mention alarming. No one anywhere is immune to data threats or data theft, including our government. NYSEG’s reference to “better control” of energy usage is also deliberately misleading. Despite NYSEG’s claims of approvals, plans are currently underway for U.S. health agencies to conduct studies of the health hazards of smart meters. NYSEG has touted smart meter benefits, such as an “online manager,” and “low-level RF signals,” (quoting the World Health Organization and American Cancer Society as having said that “small amounts of RF signals do not pose public health risks” and that smart meters meet “industry standards” and are in use all over the country). What are the “industry standards?” If there are no health hazards, why then are there “recommended barriers” and “recommended distances” from smart meters? As another example of electromagnetic sensitivity relative to solar installation “inverters,” why is it recommended that these inverters be installed on outbuildings rather than on one’s house, unless “recommended barriers” are installed?

According to an Iberdrola website in Spain, groups in that country have expressed their concerns regarding

State of Emergency or Xenophobia?

The last two issues of “The Freeman’s Journal” have covered David Bliss’ proposed strategies for, in effect, defending ourselves from any proposed influx of immigrants.

the cost, health and fire risks, security, and privacy effects of smart meters, and the remote controllable “kill switch” that is included in them. People living near smart meters in Spain have been reported to have “suffered headaches, body aches, and flu-like symptoms” from the electric and magnetic fields that are emitted from smart meters. According to the same Iberdrola site, some meter installers in the U.S. have even been prevented at gun point from replacing analog meters with smart meters.

Strength of EMF waves shown by NYSEG for meter vs. microwave, Wi-Fi booster and cellphone are misleading. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics considers children to be more vulnerable to radio frequency radiation, not to mention that the RFR’s also pose risks to pollinators and wildlife.

Smart meter RF waves move through space at the speed of light, using a method of communication similar to a cellphone, pager, satellite, radio, transmission power line, Wi-Fi or Internet, to measure and transmit energy consumption data. They emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of radio frequency radiation. According to the WHO, “tissue heating” is the principal mechanism of interaction between radiofrequency energy and the human body.

Thus far, Austria is the only country with a written plan for guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of EMF-related health problems. And contrary to claims by utility providers, a standard smart meter can average 1,900 transmissions in a 24-hour period. The U.S. safety limit for RF radiation is 1,000 microwatts per meter squared. However, it is not uncommon for some smart meters to produce up to 60 times this amount, which means the radiation from smart meters is equivalent to the output of an estimated 160 wireless devices such as cellphones.

What are the FCC standards?

Twenty-year-old FCC limits based on a 30-year-old study are not protective of human health and are hundreds of thousands of times too high to protect humans and wildlife from biological effects.

Further, it’s unacceptable that NYSEG intends to charge its consumers who “opt out” of having smart meters installed on their houses, reportedly at $13.49 each month. For those who are unable to opt out, it is suggested that a “smart meter guard” be installed, a cover placed over the smart meter that will block 90 to 95 percent of the RF radiation. (Incidentally, there are already

monthly charges at present in place in NYSEG’s invoices for the cost of their meters, meter-reader employees and billing expenses.)

What are the fire hazards—in particular, for houses with older wiring? It’s reported that many communities oppose smart meters because of fires and other hazards. Some meters have reportedly exploded and caused fires, while some malfunction and allow surges and overvoltage to flow into buildings which can burn wiring.

Credible news sources report that a number of states have banned or are planning to ban so-called “smart meters” because of the related health hazards of EMFs and EMRs. Some states have enacted “smart grid” legislation. In California there are lawmakers, counties and cities that have called for moratoria, the right for consumers to opt out, and the banning of smart meters, with others declaring EMRs to be a health hazard and demanding more research on health and safety impacts. Cities in the state of Maine and in British Columbia, Canada have passed resolutions calling for moratoria on smart meters. See the National Conference of State Legislatures webpage for a map of the U.S. showing various policies on utility meters: http:// www.ncsl.org/research/energy/smartmeter-opt-out-policies.

Health experts have urged states to adopt a free opt-out for Duke Energy customers: Florida Public Service Commission, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, Kentucky Public Service Commission, North Carolina Utilities Commission, and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio and South Carolina, citing peerreviewed studies on the health effects of radiofrequency radiation. People are suing for the right to remove smart meters and are winning. Twenty-four states now have opt-outs for smart meters, including Iowa. New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Los Angeles, California, and New York Central Hudson have no fee. North Carolina has no fee if opt-out is for health reasons. There are records of WHO reports and expert studies in Michigan, Oregon, Massachusetts, Maine, Iowa, and elsewhere, with expert testimony on the hazards of smart meters.

In order to test frequencies in homes where smart meters are already in place, it is recommended that homeowners invest in one of the relatively inexpensive EMF readers available online. It is further recommended that local, state and federal

Continued on page 11

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

While it is understandable to raise concerns about a housing shortage as a rationale for this, there is also a flavor of Trump-style xenophobia and a lack of any proposed humane solution to an urgent human problem.

We need to remember that we, or our ancestors, were all immigrants once. These people—all of them legal immigrants or asylum seekers—are seeking refuge from desperate circumstances. There is a commandment of decency, common to all religions, to succor persons in need.

I am not aware of any canvassing of local residents with regard to opinions or possible housing, but this is a community which somehow manages to accommodate thousands of extra people every summer, as that is profitable. I would personally be willing to offer any reasonable housing, as far as I would be able, and with the support of social service and volun-

teer agencies which are certainly going to be in place.

A better question than “How can we keep them out?” would be: “How can we make it work?”

Mary Anne Whelan Cooperstown

Editor’s Note: We welcome your thoughts and opinions. Send letters to the editor to info@allotsego.com.

Correction: The May 25 edition incorrectly stated that the Otsego Pride Alliance parade will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 3. The parade in fact lines up at Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 1 p.m. and steps off at 1:30. It ends at Muller Plaza. For a full schedule of events, visit https://www.otsegopridealliance.org/pridefest-2023/.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR … In THEIR OPInIOn

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

210 YeARS AGO

Among the ten provisions of a village ordinance adopted on May 21, 1813 is the following: Be it ordained by the Trustees of the Village of Cooperstown, that one-fifth part of the street on each side thereof be appropriated for sidewalks, and that no person shall lay or deposit, or leave any wood, timber, wagon, cart, sleigh, wheel-barrow, or other obstruction whatever, in or upon the said sidewalks, under the penalty of fifty cents for every offence, and the further sum of fifty cents for every twenty-four hours the said obstruction shall be thereafter suffered to remain on the same.

May 29, 1813

185 YeARS AGO

From the Albany Argus (as reprinted in The Freeman’s Journal) we give detailed accounts of the scenes of violence at Philadelphia, consequent on the opening of a public hall designed for abolition discussions, and the assembling of a “motley group” on that occasion. Some of the preliminary proceedings of the “convention” are given in the Philadelphia papers. One resolution of the convention is, that “Abolitionists will use their influence in having their colored friends seated promiscuously in our congregations – and that when churches are disgraced with side seats and corners, abolitionists will, as much as possible, take seats with them.” A second resolution “deems it a solemn duty of every woman to pray to be delivered from such an unholy feeling (prejudice against color) and to act out the principles of Christian equality by associating with them (the blacks) as though the color of the skin was of no more consequence than that of the hair or eyes.

May 28, 1838

160 YeARS AGO

On the meaning of Liberty – The great truth is that men mistake the meaning of the word liberty. It is a fine sounding word which too many have never paused to interpret. Rightly understood it signifies the highest state to which human existence can aspire; wrongly interpreted, it implies the reign of anarchy, violence, license and shame. The grand truth that, in the present state of human nature, government is necessary to liberty is so paradoxical that men refuse to believe it. In plain terms, men cannot have liberty unless they are under restraint; and tho’ the assertion seems self-contradictory, it is nevertheless true, beyond cavil. Our readers remember Mr. Webster’s definition of liberty – It included two parts: first, restraint on individuals by government, so that they cannot lay hands on the citizen; second, restraint on the government, so that it cannot wrongly lay hands on him. In the absence of either of these restraints, liberty is imperfect, and in the permanent absence of either, liberty is destroyed.

May 29, 1863

135 YeARS AGO

Ongoing Conversation About Substance Use Important

If you are a parent and have had to make a decision about how to have “the talk,” you are certainly not alone. Thankfully, there is good news. In spite of the all of the eyerolls, heavy sighs, and shoulder shrugs, the research tells us that you, the parent, have the biggest voice in the life your child.

So much so that kids who hear from their parents early and often about the expectation that drugs will not be used are 50 percent less likely to use them. You guessed it, “the talk” I’m writing about is the one centered on parental expectation when it comes to not using drugs and alcohol.

If you hear celebrities, pundits, and social media influencers expounding on this, you would think that most kids become rebellious around the mere suggestion that drugs and alcohol not be any part of their lives. The data simply doesn’t prove that out. Kids listen when spoken to from a place of love, respect and safety. I don’t know of any parent, anywhere, that wouldn’t want to give their child the very best possible chance of avoiding the entire laundry list of lifelong risks associated with any drug use. For younger people, that risk typically shows up in impaired cognitive development and personal injury.

Parents almost instinctively put a helmet on their child for biking, skateboarding, football and hockey. The importance of an ongoing conversation around substances rises to that level. Those talks are like a helmet for any child’s physical, social, emotional and educational life. I will admit, it is not an easy talk. However, it does get easier with a bit of practice. Here are some tips:

1) Pick a time when the atmosphere around the home is calm. These talks are too important to try to do it in the midst of a corrective conversation or when emotions are already high.

By MeRL ReAGLe

110 YeARS AGO

Mrs. A.B. Forbes celebrated her eightieth birthday Monday and a number of her friends took tea with her in the afternoon and offered their sincere congratulations for “many happy returns of the day.” A large birthday cake bearing the figures “80” upon it was enjoyed by all guests, among whom were: Mrs. M. Campbell Smith, Mrs. Theodore C. Turner, Mrs. J.A.M. Johnston, Mrs. Charles Burch, Mrs. Dugan, Mrs. Kent Jarvis, Mrs. G.P. Keese, The Misses Keese, Miss Cory, Mrs. Wm. Festus Morgan, Mrs. Ralph Birdsall, Dr. M. I. Bassett, and Miss Florence Sill.

Solution: “Sorry, Wrong Letter #4”

2) Kids/teens have BIG feelings. They hardly know what to do with them all. So, always approach these conversations with love, care and safety in mind. Share your expectations for their safety (no drugs or alcohol) along with why using these substances will make them unsafe.

3) Use age-appropriate language. This conversation is very different with a six-yearold who is just entering school and may observe things going on than it is with a 13-year-old who already has some life experience.

4) Make sure to create a space where it is safe for them to ask questions. Questions and challenges are healthy and demonstrate engagement. Young people are given all kinds of information in their world that seems to be fact to them. So, let them ask. If you don’t know the answer, say so. Promise them that you will find out and let them know and be sure to follow though.

5) Create opportunities for casual discussions. If you hear an ad about alcohol, if you see a billboard about cannabis, or even a come upon a vaping ad in a convenience store, ask a non-judgmental question. Ask them what they see or hear. Just open the discussion.

There are many more tips for these conversations. This includes what to say if your child asks you about your own possible substance use. Take a look at https:// www.samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you.

LeAF has a free presentation that we can offer for your organization called “Shawna Has a Secret,” which covers these topics. Just call (607) 432-0090 and speak to one of our prevention specialists.

Parents—you’ve got this! And even though it is not easy, the benefits can be measured in healthy kids who grow into healthy adults.

Julie Dostal is executive director of the LEAF Council on Alcoholism & Addictions, Oneonta.

Sight Gag… A joke with an optical illusion

LOCALS: PeOPLe & BUSIneSSeS In THe neWS

Photo provided

BURGER BATTLE: Two students from the OnC BOCeS Culinary Arts Program traveled with their instructors, Chef Jody Albano and Vesti Misner, to compete in the 3rd Annual Gourmet Burger Battle nYSRA ProStart Invitational held at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, new York. The students, Anthony Accordino and Skye Lewis, placed first and second in the competition, respectively. Accordino prepared an Italian Manza Burger and Lewis prepared a Stuffed Smokehouse Pub Burger.

HERKIMER HONORS: Among the 369 graduates and candidates for degrees and certificates eligible to participate in Herkimer County Community College’s 55th Commencement on Friday, May 12 were the following local students—Ara Margaret Homer, liberal arts and sciences: general studies AA; Carly M. Sadlon, business administration AAS; Cassie J. Sadlon, business administration AS; and Julie A. Smith, physical therapist assistant AAS, all of Richfield Springs; Alexandria King, travel and events management AAS; Rockwell Reid norris III, communication arts: music industry AS; and Jensen Sierra Tanney, human services AAS, all of West edmeston; and from West Winfield, Raymond Y. Boyko, business administration AAS; Alyssa J. Bregard, criminal justice: forensic investigations AAS; Katelyn Irene Lincourt, health services management technology AAS; and George Arthur Loomis, supply chain management AAS.

ODK INDUCTED: Mahala Johnson, a native of Oneonta, was recently initiated into the Lycoming College Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the national Leadership Honor Society. Students initiated into the society must be sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate/professional students in the top 35 percent of their class, demonstrate leadership experience in at least one of the five pillars of leadership (collaboration, inclusivity, integrity, scholarship, and service), and embrace the ODK ideals. Fewer than five percent of students on a campus are invited to join each year. Lycoming College, located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is one of the 50 oldest colleges in the U.S. It is recognized by “The Princeton Review” as one of “The Best 388 Colleges” for undergraduate education and a “Best Value College.”

experience to be a witness to the navy traditions that have been passed on through the years and to see history in the making. We also got to meet with crew of the original USS Higbee and hear their stories of service in Vietnam and Korea,” Tim continued. Bryson will major in aerospace engineering at Boston College. “After his degree he will commission as an officer in the U.S. navy. We are hopeful that at some point in the future he will have the opportunity to serve on a ship for its commissioning,” Tim said. The USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG123) is a United States navy Arleigh Burkeclass Flight IIA guided missile destroyer. She is named for Chief nurse Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (1874-1941), a pioneering navy nurse who served as superintendent of the U.S. navy nurse Corps during World War II, according to “This was extra special for us as Anne-Marie is also a nurse.” The original USS Higbee was sunk as a target in 1986.

DEVOTED DOCTOR: Bassett Senior Attending Physician Dr. Curtis Mills has received the Ralph O. Claypoole Sr. Memorial Award for Devotion of a Career in Internal Medicine to the Care of Patients. The award, from the American College of Physicians, is given annually to an outstanding practitioner of internal medicine whose career has been devoted to the care of patients. The practitioner must be a clinician who is highly respected by peers and colleagues for clinical skills and who has been a role model.

Dr. Mills was presented with the award on April 27 at ACP’s annual convocation in San Diego. “Bassett Healthcare network fosters the spirit of all of us privileged to work there, allowing us to accomplish our goals of wonderful, personal patient care. I am grateful to Bassett,” said Dr. Mills in recognition of his award. Dr. Mills’ long career at Bassett spans over 25 years of service to his patients. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at Albany Medical College, followed by his residency in Internal Medicine and Fellowship in Hematology and Oncology at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, new Hampshire. He retired from Bassett’s Senior Professional Staff as Attending Physician in June of 2021.

“The competition for the award this year was extremely strong, but your contributions were deemed the most outstanding,” said Marianne C. Parshley, MD, FACP and chair of the ACP Awards Committee when informing Dr. Mills of the award.

MOUNT VISION MEDALER: Jillian

Segina of Mount Vision was one of 20 graduating SUnY Oneonta seniors to receive a Senior Service Award this month, recognizing commitment to volunteerism. Seniors who completed at least 350 hours of service through the university’s Center for Social Responsibility and Community were recognized during a special reception. Depending on the amount of volunteer hours served, students received either a pin, cords or a medal to wear during Spring Commencement on May 20. Segina, who is studying biology, received a medal for completing 786 hours of service to the community. She was also recently recognized with a platinumlevel leadership milestone through SUnY Oneonta’s LeAD (Leadership education and Development) program. Segina earned this distinction through a commitment to improving oneself and enhancing knowledge by exploring leadership opportunities, participating in campus organizations, and serving the campus community by taking on recognized leadership roles. Completion of this level requires attending 19 events designated with a learning outcome (three must be diversity events), actively participating in four recognized organizations, completing three online courses (Foundations of Leadership, Personal Development, Organizational Development), and serving as an officer in a club or organization for at least two semesters (average of 219 hours to complete).

GMU Announces Class of 2023 Top 5

The Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School District has announced the top five academic students in its Class of 2023. GMU’s graduating class is led by Valedictorian Fiona Held and Salutatorian Hannah Bonczkowski. Corbin Demmon, Kali Wilcox and Megan Perrine round out GMU’s top five seniors, who will be formally recognized for their academic excellence during GMU’s Class of 2023 Graduation Ceremony on Friday, June 23.

Valedictorian

Fiona Held

Fiona Held has earned the honor of valedictorian for GMU’s Class of 2023 with the highest grade-point average. She has consistently excelled in all classes, maintaining high-honor roll status with grades above 90 percent.

Fiona is a member of GMU’s Quiz Bowl team, Leadership Club, Student Council, Jazz Band and national Honor Society. She also serves as president of the Yearbook Club and the Symphonic Band, and will be co-drum major of the GMU marching band this year. Among her academic awards are the University of Rochester Frederick Douglass & Susan B. Anthony Award, the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Award, the Rochester Institute of Technology Computing Award, and the 2022 Student Sage Award. Held has participated in varsity soccer since her freshman year and is a dancer at Holbrook-Wade School of

Dance, taking eight classes a week. She also works two jobs, at Badgerface Beauty in Gilbertsville and Buffalo Wild Wings in Oneonta.

Salutatorian Hannah Bonczkowski

Hannah Bonczkowski has earned the honor of salutatorian for GMU’s Class of 2023 with the second highest grade-point average. She has been very active in extracurricular activities, participating in track and field, basketball, soccer, band, chorus, drama club, and mock trial. Also co-drum major of the GMU Marching Band this year, Bonczkowski has taken several other leadership positions as a member of Student Council, Leadership Club, and national Honor Society, and is a Catskill Area School Study Council Student Leadership Workshop student director. A two-time Class D all-state selection in girls basketball, she also plays AAU basketball and is involved in the 4-H Club and Otsego County Dairy Promotion. Bonczkowski plans to attend SUnY Morrisville and major in communications.

Corbin Demmon

Corbin Demmon has earned the third-highest grade-point average for GMU’s Class of 2023. In addition to his excellent academic performance and induction into the national Honor Society, Demmon also competed as a three-sport varsity athlete (track and field, basketball, and soccer), proving his versa-

tility as a community member. He plans to attend Le Moyne College to pursue an education in computer science.

Kali Wilcox

Kali Wilcox has earned the fourth-highest grade-point average for GMU’s Class of 2023. She continues to be a leader inside and outside of school, attending the HOBY Youth Leadership nYe conference and engaging as an active member of national Honor Society and GMU’s mock trial team. Also a varsity soccer and basketball player, Wilcox attends the new Visions program for law and government, with hopes of becoming a corporate attorney after graduation. She plans to continue her education at SUnY Oneonta with a focus in pre-law and business.

Megan Perrine

Megan Perrine has earned the fifth-highest gradepoint average for GMU’s Class of 2023. A dedicated student, she prides herself in furthering her education in all areas. She participates in the new Visions Allied Health Program in preparation for college and is very involved in extra-curricular activities in and out of school. This varsity and AAU basketball player is a 4-H Club member and serves as a District 7 Youth Representative for Holland Lops. Perrine plans to continue her education in the medical field, with the hope of becoming a doctor who specializes in orthopedics.

SPECIAL CEREMONY: The Whitaker family of Hartwick had the recent honor of witnessing the Commissioning Ceremony of the USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee in Key West, Florida. Tim and Anne-Marie Whitaker’s son, Bryson, is graduating from Cooperstown this month and will be attending Boston University on a naval Reserve Officers’ Training Corps scholarship. “Because of this, we were invited to Key West for the commissioning of the USS Higbee,” Tim wrote in a recent e-mail. “It was an honor for us to meet so many of our U.S. navy officers and enlisted crew, who were excited to share their new boat with us during a tour. We were amazed by the speakers and their dedication to serving our country. It was a wonderful

GREAT GRADUATES: Five area students were among those to be recognized as part of the SUnY Potsdam Class of 2023 during the College’s 203rd Commencement Ceremony on May 20. They are: Ushuaia Diaz of Schenevus, set to graduate with a Master of Music in music performance; Kaylee Hovick of Otego, set to graduate magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in music business; elizabeth Mortati of Oneonta, set to graduate with a Master of Music in music education (K-12); Jasmine Schrom of Richmondville, set to graduate summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology; and Karyn Wendrow of Oneonta, set to graduate with a Master of Science in management. Founded in 1816, The State University of new York at Potsdam is one of America’s first 50 colleges and the oldest institution within SUnY.

MANAGER NAMED: The Smithy Clay Studio, Cooperstown, has hired Kyle Pumilio as studio manager and lead instructor. Pumilio will begin transitioning to his new role starting June 1 with an official start date of July 10. Originally from Frankford, Pumilio is an art education graduate of Pratt MWP College of Art

and Design. He completed his under-graduate studies at SUnY Potsdam and has a master’s degree in educational technology from SUnY Oneonta. He has been an art educator at West Canada Valley Central School District and Munson-Williams, teaching clay sculpture and ceramics to elementary and teenage students, according to the PrattMWP Facebook page. The Smithy announcement reads, “Kyle will be joining our team with a lifetime of ceramic studio knowledge as well as over a decade of art education experience. He has expressed great interest in meeting our clay studio community members as well as becoming a lasting member of our community both inside and outside of The Smithy Clay Studio.”

SILVER-LEVEL SERVERS: elizabeth Thompson of Morris and Delaney Williams of Oneonta recently attained silver-level leadership milestones through SUnY Oneonta’s LeAD (Leadership education and Development) program. Students can attain a silver, gold or platinum level. To attain each level, students must meet a mix

of programmatic and experiential leadership requirements, including completion of online courses, attendance at educational events, and membership and leadership in one or more of SUnY Oneonta’s 100+ student-run clubs and organizations. Completion of a leadership level is recognized on campus as a credential that can be used, for example, when running for office or applying for STeP (Student Travel for excellence Program) funding. The program also provides students with a leadership record that can be submitted to potential employers.

BACHELOR’S BESTOWED: John P. Lambert of Cooperstown was among the more than 850 members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2023 who were awarded bachelor’s and associate’s degrees at its undergraduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre. Degrees were conferred to graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2022, as well as January and May of 2023. Lambert earned a Bachelor of Science degree in management from The University of Scranton.

TRIO TAPPED: Otsego Pride Alliance recently announced the winners of the first annual Kota Flood Memorial Scholarship. ella Ruth Tomlins of edmeston Central School, Shailee Sailer of Oneonta High School and elena Meckel of Cooperstown Central School were chosen because they exemplify Kota’s integrity, bravery, character, and spirit, the OPA wrote in a Facebook post. The Kota Flood Memorial Scholarship is made possible by a generous donation from Wise Guys Sammy’s of Oneonta.

Photo provided

Photo provided

Photo provided

Communities Unite To Save Lake Engineers Recommend

By DAn SULLIVAn RICHFIELD SPRInGS

Early in 2023, a unique coalition of four Otsego municipalities and a citizen-led lake association joined in a Memorandum of Agreement to fund an engineering study. The purpose of the study was to determine what type of sewer system might best serve Canadarago Lake residents. The study, completed by Delaware Engineering of Albany and Oneonta, was ready for public presentation by midMay. On Tuesday, May 23, a public meeting was held at the Richfield school to unveil the highlights of the study. nearly 200 residents from the Canadarago Lake community attended, both in person and virtually via Zoom.

After a brief introduction by the Richfield town supervisor, Matt Dombrowski, president of the Canadarago Lake Improvement Association, gave a concise summary of the water quality issues presenting in the lake. He stressed the need for the sewer system as a means to halt the nutrient loading into the water, giving the lake the time to begin to heal itself.

“This will not be an overnight, quick fix,”

Ronald G. Peters

1944-2023

O n EO n TA—Ronald

G. Peters, 78, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 1, 2023.

Ron was born on May 28, 1944 to William J. and Evelyn M. Peters in nYC. He attended Great neck High School, where he acquired a band of lifelong friends and graduated in the Class of 1962.

He spent the summer after graduation on the Hospital Ship SS Hope on its mission to Peru. He was so interested in this that he continued on these missions in summers during college. The mission to Ecuador brought many stories that he regularly shared—most notable was surviving a jungle plane crash that took the lives of many of his fellow passengers. From these early experiences he got the bug for off-the-beaten-path travels, immersing in local cultures from new Zealand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, among others.

He attended Princeton University, graduating with the Class of 1966 and earning a degree in engineering. He looked forward to the class reunions where he could catch up with his classmates.

After college, he served for two years in Germany during the Vietnam War as a lieutenant in the United States Army, providing artillery services to the troops on the ground.

After his military service he attended Columbia University, where he earned his MBA in 1971. He began his professional career at Citibank before being recruited to join Oppenheimer’s boutique mergers and acquisitions team. It was here that he thrived in the art of the deal.

He raised his three sons in Chappaqua, new York and in the early eighties the family bought a home in Twilight Park (a summer community outside of Tannersville, new York).

There he spent summers with the kids. It is the place that he most cherished and abounded with memories of many good times.

Low-pressure Septics

Dombrowski asserted. “It took a long time for conditions to reach this point, and it will take time to go in the other direction.”

Following Dombrowski was Matt Davis of Delaware Engineering, who presented the scenarios that the study had produced. Of the four, one was to take no action, which would spell the eutrophication of the lake and its eventual end. Three scenarios outlined sewer systems of slightly varying types, with costs ranging up to $38 million.

Davis then offered Delaware’s recommendation: a low-pressure sewer system with grinder pumps at each occupied property, utilizing the Village of Richfield Springs’ Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is currently operating far below its capacity. The cost of this option was estimated at $28 million, lower than the highest estimate. Other benefits to this option were less land disturbance, elimination of infiltration and inflow concerns, and fewer easements required.

Delaware Engineering partners Mary Beth Bianconi and Alan Tavenner, both engineers, then took over for a question-and-answer session that lasted nearly an hour.

While the questions reflected some concern about costs to residents and effectiveness of the system, there were many positive reactions, notably from virtual participants. Bianconi reminded everyone present that all of the work to this point is very preliminary, and that obtaining sufficient funding and financing are key to moving forward, with the aim of keeping costs low for residents.

The meeting closed with an outline of next steps the communities need to take. The Town of Richfield has agreed to take the lead in this process.

The first step has been to list the project on the CWRSF Intended Use Plan, which was done in the days following the meeting. CWRSF stands for Clean Water State Revolving Fund; it is an EPA-state partnership that ranks projects in order of importance. Sometime this summer, the ranking will be published. Another summer 2023 objective is to begin the SEQR, or State Environmental Quality Review, followed by creation of a Sewer District and Intermunicipal Agreements, likely bond resolutions, and then grant and financing applications. If all proceeds smoothly, construction could begin in late 2024.

spORts sNippEts

COMpilED by wRilEy NElsON

Team Bert Wins Hall of Fame Classic Game

COOPERSTOWn—Team Bert defeated Team Kitty 8-3 in the 2023 Hall of Fame Classic game. Hall of Fame heroes Bert Blyleven, Rollie Fingers, Fergie Jenkins, Jim Kaat, Jack Morris and Lee Smith managed more than two dozen retired players at the May 27 event. James Loney, formerly of the Dodgers, won the pregame Home Run Derby. Pokey Reese, member of the 2004 World Series champion Red Sox, won the Bob Feller Player of the Game Award.

Otsego Co. Track Athletes Perform at Sectionals

OTSEGO COUnTY—The Unadilla Valley girls track and field team emerged victorious from the Section IV Class D championship meet at Marathon on May 23. Many Otsego County athletes recorded strong performances at the meet. The Morris/Edmeston boys’ team tied for fourth. Schenevus/Worcester had two third-place finishes, Cassidy Howard in the 100m and Lily Competiello in the 200m. Emerson Allen of Laurens/Milford took third in the high jump. Richfield Springs’ Camryn Marshall took second in discus. Franklin’s Valentina Temple took third in the 400m. Izek Richards won the long jump for E/M, while teammates Thomas Bennett and Kiernan Burke took second and third place in shot put. Bennett also placed third in discus. Franklin’s Isaac Wright placed second in the steeplechase and third in the 3200m. L/M’s Carter Stevens took second in the 1600m and Wendell Agustin placed second in the 400m hurdles. Unatego’s David Clapper finished third in the 800m.

Cooperstown Softball Advances to Finals

COOPERSTOWn—Following a close-run quarterfinal game, Cooperstown softball trounced two-seeded Sandy Creek 9-1 in the Section III Class C semifinals on May 27. Dani Seamon threw nine strikeouts and tallied three hits and three RBI. Katie Crippen and Tori France each scored two runs, and Crippen batted in four. Sophia Hotaling stole two bases. Emmy Lippitt and Grace Sperry each hit an RBI. The Hawkeyes will face eight-seeded Port Byron in the title game on May 31. Cooperstown has won two sectional titles in program history, in 2013 and 2016.

Coop. Girls Track Places Third at Sectionals

COOPERSTOWn—The Cooperstown Central School track and field teams competed at the Section III Class C championship in Beaver River on May 24. The boys finished seventh in an 11-school field, while the girls placed third behind Tully and Sauquoit Valley. Senior Claire Jensen won the 200m and 400m events and contributed to championship 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams. Riley Green placed first in discus and second in shot put. Elizabeth Hughes took third in shot put. Braeden Victory took second in the high jump. Annelise Jensen placed second in the 800m and third in the 1,500m. Mia Pelcer took third place in the 100m hurdles. On the boys’ team, Cooper Bradley placed third in the 110m hurdles and second in the high jump. Cooper Hodgdon took third in the 400m hurdles. The Hawkeyes will compete in the State Qualifier meet on Thursday, June 1.

Through Twilight Park connections, he met Johna Peachin and moved to Oneonta, new York in 2005. He became an integral part of her family, her business, and the community and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His willingness to assist at the office with investments and valuations never faded. He never missed a highway clean-up day, where you could find him hanging back, smoking a cigar, thoroughly picking up every cigarette butt on the road. His beloved pastimes were golf, walking his dogs with a fine cigar, and a good “Saturday night” bottle of wine. nothing made him happier than entertaining family and friends with Johna when they spent weekends in their Twilight home.

Ron is survived by Johna; his three sons, Gregory Peters and Sarah Hill, Solano Beach, California, William and Hannah Peters, needham, Massachusetts, and Timothy and Angela Peters, Santa Monica, California; four grandchildren, Eliza, Lucy, Henry, and Jack; and sisterin-law Shelley Peters, East Hampton, new York.

He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, William R. Peters.

A celebration of his life will be held at the All Angels Episcopal Church, Spray Falls Road, Twilight Park, Haines Falls, new York on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 3 p.m. where family and friends are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oneonta Family YMCA, 20-26 Ford Avenue, Oneonta nY

13820 or Twilight Park Day

Camp, c/o Laura Post, 6190 Old Bridge Avenue nW, Massillon OH 44646-6080

Arrangements are by Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta; www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Andrea N.

1934-2023

Moore

O n EO n TA—Andrea

n. Moore, 88, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Duanesburg on February 1, 2023. She was born March

2, 1934 in Binghamton, the daughter of Raymond and Elva (Freiberg) newschwander.

Andrea graduated from Binghamton north High School in 1952. She married David Moore on March 20, 1954, in Binghamton. He predeceased her on December 7, 2005.

Andrea was a stay-at-home mom for 18 years, after which she transitioned to a position as medical transcriptionist at A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta, where she worked for 20 years until she retired. She continued to volunteer at Fox Hospital after retirement as well as for many other community organizations throughout the years.

Andrea was active at the First Presbyterian Church in her younger years and then as a member of the Charlotte Valley Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed singing and was a classically trained soprano soloist, participating in church choirs, community chorales, as well as countless weddings and

special occasions. She was very artistic and had many hobbies, including her love of painting, crafting, and indoor/outdoor gardening. She was also an avid bowler for a time. Andrea and her husband, David, enjoyed traveling, visiting many places within the United States and abroad. Over the years, they also hosted five Rotary Exchange Students.

Andrea’s quick sense of humor, beautiful smile, and her ability to laugh at herself will be dearly missed. She found a reason to smile every day and truly enjoyed and loved her surroundings and her life.

She is survived by her children, Erin Hughes and husband David, Todd Moore and wife Jaci, and Brett Moore and wife Susie; grandchildren Christopher Hughes, Shannon Karl, nicole Wolf, Kaitlyn Culbertson, and Liam Moore; great-grandchildren Greyson, Lucas, and Declan Karl, nora and Deacon Hughes, Jack and Charlotte Wolf, Porter and Maxci Culbertson, as well as the 10th great-grandchild due in April; brother-inlaw Doug Moore and wife Jan, sister-in-law Rosemary Moore; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, Ward newschwander and sister, Brenda Hunt.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, June 2 at the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz

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.

Street, Oneonta.

Services will be 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 3 at the Charlotte Valley Presbyterian Church, 15673 State Highway 23, Davenport, with the interment in the north Kortright Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Charlotte Valley Presbyterian Church, PO Box 184, Davenport, nY 13750 or to your local hospice.

Arrangements are with Oneonta’s only family owned funeral home, Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono at 51 Dietz Street; www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Virginia L.

Stocking

1922-2023

SPRI n GFIELD

CEnTER—Virginia L. Stocking, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away on May 17, 2023 at the age of 100.

Virginia was born in Cooperstown on December 2, 1922 to Earl and Catherine Richards. She spent most of her childhood in East Springfield and graduated from Springfield Central School in June of 1940. She married Glenn C. Stocking on April 9, 1944. Virginia and Glenn devoted their lives to each other and to their family.

In addition to spending time with her family, Virginia

enjoyed playing the organ, singing, gardening, crossword puzzles, and attending both sporting and special events for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Virginia is survived by her daughter, Kathleen D. Stocking; sister nancy Burnside (George); sister Shirley Bemiss; sister-inlaw Carol Richards; and former daughter-in-law Linda Stocking. She is also survived by granddaughters Shelley Bostwick (Joel) and Hillary Stocking (David) and great-grandchildren Adrianna Lawson, Christian Lawson, Hudson Cox, and Ian Cox. Other survivors include special nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 60 years, Glenn, sons Philip and James, and brothers Arnold and Earl Jr. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at a future date. Donations in Virginia’s memory may be made to Helios Care, 297 River Street, Oneonta, nY 13820 or Springfield Fire Department, PO Box 358, Springfield Center, nY 13468.

To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.ottmanfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the care of the Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley, new York.

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

Dignified and Caring Service since 1925 Peaceful grounds. Home-like atmosphere. Suitable for large or small gatherings.

|

Photo provided ANDREA N. MOORE

Oneonta Community Comes Out in Force To Honor One of Its Own

By JOeL J PLUe

OneOnTA

On Memorial Day, May 29, Oneontans

gathered outside Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center at 9 a.m. for a parade in honor of our nation’s heroes and local fallen soldier Chief Warrant Officer 3 Christopher Thomas eramo. Hundreds of enthusiastic community members, businesses, military personnel, local clubs, and politicians cheered and applauded as the parade progressed from Foothills to Main Street and, eventually, to neahwa Park for the ceremony at 11. “This noteworthy event

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

nOTICe IS

HeReBY GIVen that the Historic Preservation and Architectural Review Board for the Village of Cooperstown will hold their regular monthly meeting and the following public hearing on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 5:00 P.M. or as soon thereafter as can be heard:

Meeting to be held in the Village Office Building, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown.

41 nelson Avenuedemolition of a porch on the rear side of the home

The plans for this project are on file with the Village Clerk’s Office at the Village Office, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown, new York, and may be seen during regular office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Public comments must be provided by email to the Zoning Officer at zoning@cooperstownny.org or by regular mail to the address below no later than Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 3:30 p.m.

Jenna Utter Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, nY 13326

Tele: (607)547-2411 ext. 13, email: jutter@cooperstownny.org

LegaL nOtice

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,

could not have been possible without the generous contributions of sponsors such as Tom Armao, Country Club Auto, Ben Guenther, Five Star Subaru, The Hampton Inn Oneonta, ISD Computers and Jordan Phillippe,” said David Hayes, parade event coordinator.

Once gathered at neahwa Park for the memorial ceremony honoring eramo, the crowd was welcomed by past American Legion Post 259 Commander Len Carson. Following this came the posting of the colors by the American Legion Post 259 Color Guard, the national Anthem, played by the Oneonta High School Band, then the Pledge of Allegiance

vs. BOnnIe L. HOUGHTALInG STARR, AS HeIR AnD DISTRIBUTee OF THe eSTATe OF MAXIne A. ARMSTROnG; SAnDRA K. MAXSOn, AS HeIR AnD DISTRIBUTee 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 HOUS-

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

and a prayer offered by the Reverend Randy Palada.

Amongst the many who spoke, Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek, former Mayor Gary

Herzig and the Reverend Sam Judd delivered powerful and meaningful speeches to commemorate eramo and recognize

soldiers everywhere.

Mayor Drnek said, “Memorial Day, today, is our annual one-day remembrance of that sacrifice. But the smile, the warmth, the story of the beloved but fallen soldier is a memory to be shared every day.”

After a number of community officials addressed the crowd, eramo was honored with a six-rifle salute. Rev. Judd offered a compassionate eulogy, praising and remembering the local hero. When the ceremony ended, attendees left with a sense of grief and pride, and a reminder that Christopher eramo—and indeed all fallen soldiers—will continue to be remembered forever.

eramo died on April 27 of this year when two U.S. Army helicopters collided in Alaska, killing him and two other soldiers. The two AH64 Apache helicopters were returning to Fort Wainwright from an aerial gunnery range southeast of Fairbanks when they collided. eramo served his country honorably for more than 18 years, including tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq. He received nine Army Commendations Medals, six Army Achievement Medals, the Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Citation, national Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Medal. He was 39.

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

K & A Roofing & Construction, LLC, a nY limited liability company (LLC).

Arts. of Org. filed with nY Sec. of State (nYSS) on 04/11/2023.

Office: Otsego County. nYSS designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. nYSS shall mail process to: K & A Roofing & Construction, LLC, 149 Weeks Road, Springfield Center, new York 134682313.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalJul.6

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF AUSTIn

eLeCTRIC nY LLC

Articles of Org. filed nY Sec. of State (SSnY) 5/23/23. Office in Otsego Co. SSnY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSnY shall mail process to PO Box 446, Oneonta, nY 13820.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalJul.6

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

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

LegaL nOtice

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 141 IRISH HOLLOW

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

LegaL nOtice

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

Photo by Joel Plue

Oneonta Police Officer Officer Sara Lottridge seen marching alongside a riderless horse in honor of Christopher Thomas Eramo.

FReeMan’S JOURnaL & HOMETOWN ONEONTA

NEWS BRIEFS Compiled by Wriley Nelson

Bank To Host Mortgage Event

OneOnTa—Bank of Cooperstown, a subsidiary of Wayne Bank, will hold a home finance meeting at its Oneonta Community Office, 34 Main Street, from 5-7 p.m. on June 6. Mortgage professionals will be available to discuss residential and commercial mortgages, refinancing options, home equity lines of credit, and construction loans. Participants will be entered to win a $25.00 gift card to Latté Lounge. Contact Mortgage Originator amanda Rifanburg, (607) 282-8315, for more information or to register.

GMU Voters Approve Budget

BUTTeRnUTS—Gilbertsville-Mount Upton school district voters approved three propositions and elected two Board of education members on May 16. Jed Barnes and Christopher Ostrander were each re-elected to threeyear terms on the board. Voters approved an annual budget of $11,050,000.00, a capital fund to support infrastructure projects, and a $5,200,000.00 capital improvement plan. The project includes extensive exterior and interior building renovation and maintenance. nearly $8 million of the district budget will come from new york State aid. The board included a $100,000.00 small capital outlay projects fund.

Second Gathering Place To Open

OneOnTa—The Gathering Place 50 Plus Community Center, located in Cobleskill, will open a new location in Oneonta this summer. The Cobleskill center opened in June 2021 and has enjoyed tremendous success. It is approaching 900 members, including visitors from Otsego County and albany. The Gathering Place implements a Healthy for Life wellness model that focuses on physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, vocation and environmental health. For more information, to register for membership, or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit https://www.schoharieseniors.com/.

Bird Walk Scheduled at Museum

eaST MeRedITH—delaware-Otsego audubon Society will host a morning bird walk starting at 8 a.m. on June 17 at the Hanford Mills Museum in east Meredith. Veteran birders Suzanne Gaynor and Kathryn davino will lead. The walk will cover half a mile in about 90 minutes. The program is free and pre-registration is recommended. Participants should bring binoculars, sturdy shoes, insect repellant and water. To register, visit https://doas. us/events/hanford-mills-exploration-days-bird-walk/.

Contact Kathryn at (607) 746-7396 with questions. The walk is part of the Hanford Mills exploration days.

Funds Raised for Dog Rescue

RICHFIeLd SPRInGS—american Legion auxiliary

Unit 616 in Richfield Springs ran a “Fill the Hill with Flags” fundraiser to raise money for the Rescue dog/ Rescue Solider Sanctuary in Cherry Valley. Unit 616 asked community members to buy flags in memory or in honor of a loved one. each flag bore the name of the donor and honoree. about 120 flags were placed by the Garden Club of Richfield Springs’ memorial garden. donors were able to take their flags after the Memorial day ceremony. The auxiliary Unit extended thanks to its members and volunteers, the Village department of Public Works, the Village Office, the Girl Scouts, and the Sons of the american Legion. Rescue dog/Rescue Soldier is a non-profit that helps troubled teens rehabilitate and train rescue dogs to support injured veterans.

Grief Workshops Scheduled

OneOnTa—Helios Care, the hospice and palliative care organization, will offer two free instructional workshops in June and July as part of the Healing Grief Workshop series. The “art of Bereavement” and “Sound Healing” workshops will be presented by members of the Helios Bereavement department. The programs are open to all individuals 18 and older. Sound Healing, hosted by Beth Patella and Kristen Jastremski, is a six-week program that focuses on the practice of sound healing and will provide relaxation and stress reduction at each session. This program will take place at the Cabin Hill Church in delancey on June 3, 10, 17, and 24 and July 1 and 8, from 10-11:30 a.m. The art of Bereavement workshop, presented by elizabeth Bryan-Jacobs and Rebekah Smith, is a four-week program offering a research based, creative approach to explore grief and loss through art engagement. This program will take place in delhi at the Office of the aging on June 14, 21, and 28 and July 7, from 10-11:30 a.m. Registration for either program is required. Contact the Helios Care office at (607) 432-5525.

Committee Announces Contest

COOPeRSTOWn—The Cooperstown Winter Carnival Committee will hold a contest to determine the theme of the 2024 festival. The Winter Carnival has worn many faces through the years, including this year’s “Snow Place Like Home” theme. Ideas for the upcoming carnival, with a few sentences of description, should be sent to CooperstownWinterCarnival@ gmail.com by June 15. The winner will be announced and will receive the festival’s commemorative button, mug, and stickers for free.

Rubber Duck Hunt is June 18th

COOPeRSTOWn—Cooperstown residents should keep an eye out for rubber ducks hidden around the village on June 18. Kernan Cross, a Cooperstown graduate in the class of 1965, passed away in January, leaving behind his duck collection. Cross enjoyed hiding the toys for friends and strangers to find. The Class of 65 will continue that tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to find, rescue and adopt the ducks. For more information, contact the Cooperstown Class of 65 Facebook page.

Sen. Oberacker Hosts Local Students Sponsored by LWV

aLBany

State Senator Peter Oberacker (R/C-Schenevus) welcomed three students from the 51st district to the Capitol as part of the 23rd annual “Students Inside albany” conference sponsored by the League of Women Voters education Foundation.

“Offering students an inside glimpse of state government is a positive way to start them on the road to public service and I thank the League of Women Voters for continuing this constructive event,” Oberacker said.

Zachary Grygiel of Oneonta, Maeve Robinson of edmeston and Olivia Loewenguth of Cooperstown shadowed Oberacker for an afternoon, learning the inner workings of the State Senate and legislative process. “Students Inside albany” is a program designed to increase high school students’ awareness of new york’s governmental process. The interactive conference brings together high school students from across the state to take part in various workshops.

Grygiel, a national Honor Society student, takes part in the leadership of a number of clubs at Oneonta High School, including Student Council, Future Business Leaders of america and Students against destructive decisions.

Robinson plays varsity soccer, basketball, and softball and is in the national Honor Society. Loewenguth is an active member of many clubs, including envirothon, Leo Club, and Litmag, and has been part of the Glimmerglass youth Opera and Voices of Cooperstown.

“Congratulations to Olivia, Maeve and Zachary,” said Maureen Murray, co-president of the LWV Cooperstown area.

“We are very happy they have had this experience in albany. SIa is a wonderful experience and a perfect example of how the League tries to prepare young people to be good citizens.”

“We also want to thank all the candidates who applied for the scholarship,” said Maria Kaltenbach, the Cooperstown LWV’s coordinator for Students Inside albany. Lisa Samols coordinated the process for the Oneonta LWV.

Historic Clock Among Museum’s Current Exhibits

CHeRRy VaLLey—The Cherry Valley Museum officially opened for the summer season on Memorial day Weekend. among its new displays are the Campbell clock, a priceless artifact of Cherry Valley’s Revolutionary War history.

The clock was made by James allen of Kilmarnock, Scotland in 1728 for the James Campbell family shortly before they migrated from northern Ireland to new Hampshire. They settled in Cherry Valley in 1741. at the time of the Cherry Valley Massacre, in 1778, the clock was located in auchinbreck, the home of James’ son, Col. Samuel Campbell. a servant and one of the Campbell sons removed the clock works from the case and buried them in the woods shortly before auchinbreck was burned in the raid. The mechanism was retrieved in 1790 and a new case was built in albany.

The clock has passed down from generation to generation in the Campbell family and is still keeping time. William Campbell Waldron and his wife, Maybette Waldron, donated it to the Cherry Valley Museum in January. They believed that the clock belonged to Cherry Valley.

“Words cannot describe the joy of receiving this clock for Cherry Valley,” said museum Curator Barbara Bell in a release. “It is nearly 300 years old and is a magnificent historical artifact.”

The Cherry Valley Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Memorial day weekend through October 15. To learn more, call (607) 264-3303 or visit the museum’s Facebook page.

Oneonta Receives Grant To Rehabilitate Building

OneOnTa

On May 22, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the City of Oneonta will receive a $900,000.00 grant through the Restore new york Communities Initiative to assist with the rehabilitation of the Fred VanWie Building, 14-18 dietz Street.

The project will create four affordable residential units on the second floor, as well as a workshare space that may be used by tenants of the building or local makers as an office or conference area.

The main floor will be redeveloped into three commercial tenant spaces.

This additional public funding will leverage $275,000.00 previously dedicated to the VanWie Building project by the city through its downtown Revitalization Initiative downtown Improvement Fund, which was established with the goal of rehabilitating downtown upper-floor housing. The remainder of the project will be funded by the building owners, Wayne and Rebecca Carrington, with an estimated $625,000.00 of private investment.

“I know I speak for everyone in the City of

Oneonta when I offer my deepest thanks to Governor Hochul for her support of our housing efforts,” said Mayor Mark drnek. “The development of our long underutilized upper floors will allow us to welcome new neighbors and further enhance the vitality of our downtown. Thanks as well to the Carringtons for their continuing commitment to Oneonta. you are enriching our lives and our quality of place, and we appreciate it.”

“The City of Oneonta is excited to have the opportunity to support local developers, such as the Carringtons, in their efforts to expand their businesses within our vibrant downtown area,” said deputy Community director Stephen yerly. “Further, the revitalization of a historic structure like the VanWie Building breathes new life into our community and encourages a walkable urban center.

“Partnerships such as these showcase the city’s commitment to preserving and utilizing the rich historic heritage of our city while fostering economic growth and creating a dynamic and thriving downtown environment for our city’s residents and visitors alike.”

Choral Society Hosting Tournament

WeST LaURenS—The Catskill Choral Society will host a golf tournament fundraiser on Wednesday, June 7 at the Colonial Ridge Golf Club in West Laurens. The tournament will feature a captain and crew four-person team format with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. It will have skins, mulligans, pin shots, a 50/50 drawing, a putting contest and brown bag raffles.

There will also be cash prizes for the best team scores. The cost is $65.00 per person and includes a buffet at the turn. To register a team, contact Colonial Ridge Golf at (607) 263-5291 or colonialridgegolf@gmail.com. For more information on sponsoring a hole sign or to donate a raffle prize, contact the Catskill Choral Society at CCS@ catskillchoralsociety.com.

Photo provided

Olivia Loewenguth, Maeve Robinson and Zachary Grygiel had the opportunity to shadow Senator Peter Oberacker in May.

Softball

Continued from page 1

twice to take the lead in the top of the seventh off a single, two walks, a passed ball and another single.

In the bottom of the seventh, CCS junior Tori France hit a single but was tagged out as a fielder’s choice allowed Seamon to reach first. In a brief time out, a Thousand Islands official was overheard telling an injured player to “cry after we win,” to much indignation in the Cooperstown stands. Down 4-3 with two outs, the Hawkeyes needed a run to continue the season. Seamon stole second with Kirkby at bat. Kirkby slammed a single deep into right field, bringing in the game-tying run at the last possible moment.

neither team scored in the eighth. Seamon walked the first batter in the top of the ninth, but a strong Cooperstown fielding performance stranded the runner on third. France struck out in the bottom of the ninth.

Sophomore Katie Crippen took a dead ball to the ankle but managed to hit a double. She advanced to third on Dani Seamon’s ground out. With two outs, Kirkby returned to the plate, stared down the pitcher, and knocked a

ground ball up the middle to bring Crippen home. The large Cooperstown audience lost its head.

“It was truly a whole-team effort,” Kirkby said after the game. “We were hitting all around. It was very nice to have such a big community turnout to support us.”

“The [Thousand Islands] pitcher is very impressive,” Cooperstown coach Bud Lippitt said, referring to Delaney Wiley’s highlycontrolled nine-inning performance. “even from this far away, we’ve heard about her all season.”

Wiley took the loss after striking out 13 batters and scoring two runs.

“We’re very fortunate to have such a balanced hitting lineup,” Lippitt continued.

“When the top half can’t quite make it, the bottom half can. Our eighth and ninth batters [Lippitt and Sperry] made some incredible hits tonight.”

The three-seeded Hawkeyes (15-2) will face two-seeded Sandy Creek in the semifinals on Saturday, May 27. The Comets (17-2) beat Westmoreland on May 25.

Dani Seamon finished the game with 17 strikeouts. Asked for a comment, she merely pointed to Kirkby.

“MVP,” she said, “that’s all.”

Meters

Continued from page 4

representatives be made aware of the smart meter dangers and the consumers of electricity and gas who do not want smart meters installed. It is primarily government agencies and profit-seeking corporations, not consumers, which will determine if smart meters are installed.

Maureen Dill is a retired social worker and former disaster preparedness and response planner, having served as human services and emergency services director for two international nonprofit charitable organizations.

HABs

Continued from page 1

Illnesses caused by HABs, though rare, can be debilitating and even fatal, particularly for household pets. People and animals can get sick if they ingest contami-

nated water; eat contaminated fish or shellfish; or swim, wade, or play in or near contaminated water.

Regular testing of the water is key to preventing problems. BFS research helps area homeowners, visitors, and officials understand what the level of risk is on a daily basis and decide whether certain precautionary measures should be taken.

“We are pleased to be providing this support to the Biological Field Station,” said Jane Forbes Clark, president of The Clark Foundation. “Dr. Harman and his team were quick to respond when the HABs first appeared last summer, and they used the data from its testing and monitoring of the lake to inform all of us on what actions to take. It is important to have timely and accurate data in order to make sound decisions about HABs. I invite others to contribute to the BFS so its capacity to test and monitor the health of our lake is as strong as it can possibly be.”

OTSeGO COUnTY—

Bassett Healthcare network will host three Red Cross blood drives at different locations in the upcoming weeks. Appointments are available and walk-ins are welcome. Donors will receive a $10.00 e-gift card to the merchant of their choice by e-mail. The first event will be at the A. O. Fox Tri-Town Campus in Sidney, conference room n-112, from 1:30-6:30 p.m. on June 5. The second will

WE WANT TO CELEBRATE YOU! Promotions, births, meetings, new hires, events, grand openings, milestones, and more. Photos welcome, too. info@allotsego.com

be at the Levine Conference Room in Oneonta’s A. O. Fox Hospital from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 7. The third drive will be at the Bassett Hall Auditorium, on the corner of Beaver and Pioneer streets in Cooperstown, from 12:30-5:30 p.m. on June 16. For more information or to make an appointment, visit https://www.redcrossblood. org/ or use the American Red Cross Blood Donor app.

Sunday, June 4, 2023 18 holes 1:00 pm start Meadowlinks Golf Course

$60 per player Includes 18 holes of golf, cart, all beverages & picnic dinner cooperstownrotaryfoundation@gmail.com 607547 5646

To benefit: Cooperstown Rotary Foundation CRF

Lyn Edinger Memorial Golf Tournament

Bassett to Hold Three Blood Drives

►Friday, June 2

TECHNOLOGY CLASS

9-10 a.m. Learn how to work better with technology. This week’s class is “Be Organizaed with Google Keep & Gmail” with Tam Rutenber, certified Google education trainer. Arrive early to get logged into the wi-fi and to troubleshoot your device. Free, suggested donation $10 for the Angel Network of Cooperstown.

Held in the Upstairs Community Workspace at The Freight Wheel Café, 3097 County Road 11, Hartwick. (607) 293-3040.

BLOOD DRIVE 1-6 p.m.

Save up to three lives with the American Red Cross. Sacred Heart Hall, 27 Harper Street, Stamford. Register at redcrossblood.org

OPENING RECEPTION

5–8 p.m. Celebrate opening of “BELLAdonna,” featuring works by Peggy Becker, Jasmine Crowe, Mary Lou Ganio, Wendy Reich, Jennifer Russo and Cheryl Warren during the First Friday events. Exhibit on view through 7/2. 25 Main Collective, 25 Main Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 264-5340.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

5:30-8 p.m. Parents are invited to drop off children aged 4-8 for a fun evening of games, crafts, movies, pizza and drinks. 25 spaces available. Cost, $40 for a single child. Pre-registration required. Brookwood School, 687 County Route 59, Cooperstown. SStringer@ TheBrookwoodSchool.org.

HOME OPENER 7 p.m.

Support local baseball team the Oneonta Outlaws at the first game of the season. The Outlaws will take on the Boonville Lumberjacks and it’s up to us to cheer them

on. Arrive a little early for happy hour, sponsored by Brewery Ommegang from 5-6 p.m. Admission, $5/adult. Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

FIREPIT FRIDAY 7-10 p.m.

Get the friends together for music, a bonfire and some beer. This week, kick-off Pride Month with DJ Trumaster. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 544-1800.

TALKING OPERA 7 p.m.

Join Glimmerglass Festival Music Director Joseph Colaneri for a discussion on “Romeo & Juliet,” which he is conducting. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. E-mail guild.of.glimmerglass. festival@gmail.com.

FIDDLERS FROLIC 7 p.m.

All musicians and the public are invited to jam the night away in an historic candlelit museum. Refreshments available. Beer donated by Council Rock Brewery. Come open the season at the Sayre House Museum, North Main Street, Milford.

THEATER 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy the story of the children of the classic Disney villains and heroes in the imaginative theater production of Disney’s “Descendents,” presented by the Orpheus Theatre. Admission, $15/adult. Presented at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, Oneonta. Also showing Saturday, 6/3 & Sunday 6/4 at 2 p.m. (607) 432-1800.

CONTRADANCE 7:3010:30 p.m. Rejoin your friends for a fun, social dance with the Otsego Dance Society, featuring music by the band “Contrasonics” with Peter Blue calling. Suggested donation, $8/adult. Cornfield

Hall, 655 Co. Rd. 26, Fly Creek. Visit otsegodancesociety.weebly.com

►Saturday, June 3

YARD SALE DAY All day.

Cooperstown Community Yard Sale Day. Find eclectic treasures and more. Visit wearecooperstown.com/ coopyardsales/ for info.

RACE THE LAKE 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up for one of the most challenging and picturesque runs in the area. Participate in the marathon, half marathon or the 5K to challenge yourself and enjoy the beauty of Otsego Lake. All races will finish at Glimmerglass State Park with a post-race lunch. Registration required, $25 entry fee for the 5K. Presented by the Clark Sports Center, Cooperstown. (607) 547-2800.

SHOOTING CONTEST

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sign up to test your shooting skills and support the FCS Clay Target Club. Held at Oneonta Sportsman’s Club, 251 Rod & Gun Club Road, Oneonta. (607) 433-0515. SUSQUEHANNA PADDLE 9 a.m. Join the Rotary Club for a fun paddle on the Susquehanna River. Enjoy the landscape and learn about environmental sustainability. $10/adult. Meet at the Crumhorn Pond Fishing Access, Maryland. Visit otsegooutdoors.org/event/rotarydistrict-7170-susquehannapaddle/

FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Eastern Otsego Farmers Market. Strawberry Hall, 174 Main Street, Worcester.

FLOWER & PLANT SALE

9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oneonta Garden Club presents their annual sale featuring perennials, annuals, herbs, vegetables and house plants. Huntington Park, Oneonta.

BOOK & PLANT SALE

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find books, plants, movies and puzzles for sale at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta,

12 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-3491.

BARN SALE 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Support the Guild of Glimmerglass Festival at this outstanding Spring Sale. Browse through treasures including sterling, crystal, fine china, artwork, new and nearly new items, and more. 3975 State Highway 28, Milford. Also held 6/4. Visit glimmerglassguild.org/events

ART WORKSHOP 10 a.m. to noon. Curious adults are invited to learn the basics of relief linocut and woodcut printing. Two-day class will cover history and materials involved. Students will learn sketching, carving, sharpening tools, and hand printing their design, so everybody can go home with a piece of art created and printed from their lino block. Cost, $265/non-member. Includes materials. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.

PRIDE FEST 1:30 p.m. Celebrate Pride with the Oneonta community. Parade lines up at 1 with kick-off at 1:30 and proceeds down Main Street to Muller Plaza, where local organizations will host a block party. Visit facebook.com/otsegopride/ for info.

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 3 p.m. Journey through the works of one of the 20th century’s greatest pop music composers in “Back to Bacharach and Beyond,” presented by Christine and Elliot Spero. Free admission. Arkell Museum, 2 Erie Boulevard, Canajoharie. (518) 673-2314.

►Sunday, June 4

FAMILY PRIDE DAY Noon to 3 p.m. Celebrate Pride month with a festival featur-

ing face painting, spin art, fossil safari and much more, presented by The Barnyard Swing, 4604 State Highway 28, Milford. Visit otsegopridealliance.org/events/

PLANTING 1-4 p.m. Join Otsego Land Trust to beautify the gardens at Brookwood Point, 6000 New York State 80, Cooperstown. (607) 5472366. PADDLE & PULL 1-4 p.m. Get an early start in controlling invasive water chestnuts in the stump lot in Goodyear Lake. Bring your own water craft or rent one of OCCA’s to celebrate the annual Invasive Species Awareness week the right way.

Registration required. Meet at NY State Fishing Access Site, 2745-3061 State Highway 28, Portlandville. (607)547-4488.

SCHOLARSHIP CONCERT 2 p.m. Doors open at 1. Enjoy performances by the Bainbridge Guilford String Ensemble followed by members of the Classical Guitar Society of Upstate New York to raise funds for the George Lesh Memorial Scholarship for students planning to pursue music in their collegiate future. Suggested $10 donation. Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, 15 N. Main Street, Bainbridge. down2425@ gmail.com.

EXHIBIT RECEPTION

2 p.m. Celebrate the Cobleskill-Richmondville Student Art Exhibit featuring 2and 3-dimensional artworks by the 1st and 4th graders that have been inspired by the study of Native cultures.

Admission, $8/adult. Iroquois Museum Amphitheater, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. (518) 296-8949.

ART CLASS 4-6 p.m.

Learn “Plein Air Painting in Watercolor” with artist Emily Falco. Registration required. Class held June 11 & 18.

Cost, $90/non-member.

Held in the studio behind the Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-2070.

CONCERT 4 p.m. Come down for The Kody Norris Show, harkening back to the days of the Grand Ole’ Opry, with American folk music and a bit of vaudeville and other inspirations. Concert held out-

doors, bring your own seating. Food available. Admission, $25. West Kortright Centre, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith. (607) 278-5454.

►Monday, June 5

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 raise awareness of and support for local non-profit Helios Care. Eighty Main, 80 Main Street, Delhi. (607) 432-6773 or visit https://www.facebook. com/helioscarehospice

SENIOR MEALS Noon.

Seniors are invited to enjoy a delicious meal each Monday and Wednesday. Suggested donation is $3.50 for seniors, $8.60 for guests accompanying a senior. This time, enjoy a lunch of Salisbury steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, country blend vegetables and Mandarin oranges. Cherry Valley Facilities Corporation Café, 2 Genesee Street, Cherry Valley. (607) 547-6454 or visit otsegocounty.com/departments/office_for_the_aging/index.php

BLOOD DRIVE 1-6 p.m.

Save up to three lives with the American Red Cross. Worcester United Methodist Church, 111 Main Street, Worcester. Register at redcrossblood.org

ART CLASS 6-8 p.m.

Learn “Water Color Fundamentals” with artist Emily Falco. Registration required. Class held Mondays through June 19. Cost, $90/nonmember. Held in the studio behind the Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-2070 or visit https://www.facebook. com/CANOneonta

HOME GAME 7 p.m.

Oneonta Outlaws vs. the Amsterdam Mohawks, featuring happy hour before the game, 5-6 p.m., by Brewery Ommegang. Held at Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

►Visit allotsego.com/ otsego-county-events-calendar/ for the full calendar