The Freeman's Journal 07-27-23

Dead Man Found at Fox Hospital Was Exeter Kidnapping Victim

ONEONTA

The man found dead in a public restroom at AO Fox Hospital on May 31 was the victim of the infamous April kidnapping case in Exeter, the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office announced on Thursday, July 20. Michael A Morton, 32, of West Winfield, entered Fox some time on the evening of May 30. He died of an accidental drug overdose and was found at 10:30 the next morning. Otsego County Coroner Terry Knapp said that the toxicology report found 11 different medications in Morton’s body, including oxycodone,

fentanyl and at least one prescription drug.

Morton had been hospitalized at O’Connor Hospital in Delhi from April 30 to May 30. He sustained severe injuries during an unlawful imprisonment in the Town of Exeter. Tyler A Rose, 26, of Exeter, was arrested on at least nine charges on April 30 after Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the West Exeter Fire Department. Fire personnel had located an adult victim with serious injuries. Interviews with Morton revealed that Rose had held him against his will at Rose’s home and continu-

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Fans: Parade Did Not Disappoint

By CASPAR EWIG COOPERSTOWN

Under a sky both sunny and cloudy by turn, and blessed with a pleasantly warm evening, a relatively small but enthusiastic crowd witnessed the Parade of Legends that forms a part of Cooperstown’s annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend.

Bloodstained Men Bring Protest Tour to Otsego

ONEONTA—A group protesting genital cutting spent day three of its 13-day New York State tour at the NY-23/NY-28 concurrency near Southside Oneonta on Sunday, July 23. Read more on page 12.

Middlefield To Hold Focus Group Meeting

MIDDLEFIELD

Town of Middlefield Supervisor David Karl announced on Monday, July 24 that there will be a meeting of the Middlefield Comprehensive Plan Workgroup on Tuesday, August 15 at 6 p.m. at the Middlefield Town Hall. According to Karl, the meeting will focus on the topic of housing, with attention to short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units.

The workgroup is reviewing the town’s Comprehensive Plan and gathering information in order to update the document.

According to “Zoning and the Comprehensive Plan” by James A. Coon, “The comprehensive plan is the culmination of a planning process that establishes the official land use policy of a community and presents goals and a vision for the future that guides official decision making. The comprehensive plan invariably includes a thorough analysis of current data showing land development trends and issues, community resources, and public needs for transportation, recreation, and housing.”

“I would like to disseminate information about public meetings that the Town of Middlefield Comprehensive Plan

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“I’ve been doing the security detail for the Hall of Fame for 18 years, and this year is definitely quieter,” Joe Pavone noted.

However, other than the crowd size, Pavone said his duties didn’t change too much since, “on the whole, those attending Induction Weekend in Cooperstown tend to be cooperative and respectful.”

Along the parade route—starting at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, wending along Lake Street, turning onto Chestnut and then onto Main—many townspeople and visitors had staked out their positions. Those with experience actually put their folding chairs in place the previous evening, although that was a bit of over-

kill this year.

The visitors with the prize for the longest travel belonged to the Elliot family, who sported Toronto shirts but came from South Korea. As their shirts foretold, they were here to cheer for Fred McGriff.

“We’re really big baseball fans,” said Rob Elliot, and living in the Far East has not diminished their love for the game.

Not far behind on the international travel scene were avid ball fans Juan and Rebekah Guzman, who call Tampa and Puerto Rico their home.

“When we’re in Tampa, we root for the Jays,” Juan said, “but when in Puerto Rico we have ‘winter ball’ from November through January, so we can attend games during winter, all of which culminates in a Caribbean Series with teams from Panama, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic, among others.”

“And,” Rebekah added, “Juan eventually wants to continue the quest begun in 1981 to attend a game in all the major league ball parks.”

Some, like the Janzers from St. Louis, were here to cheer for Scott Rolen, but also took the time to do some hiking and sightseeing. Others, including Rick Rosenfeld, were continuing an attendance streak.

“I’ve been coming to Induction Weekend since 1989, and this one sure is quiet, but not as quiet as 2013,” Rosenfeld recalled.

Rolen’s former teammates—Chris Heisey, Jay Bruce and Drew Stubbs— were also on hand.

“We had to come,” Bruce said, “to honor a man who was really a quiet leader: a pro’s pro.”

To which Stubbs added, “He was the best model a young player could follow.”

The parade consisted of 52 flatbed trucks, each carrying one of the 50 prior

Photo by Derrick P. Begin

Derek Jeter, aka “The Captain,” was one of the many Hall of Famers who returned for this year’s Parade of Legends on Saturday, July 22.

Photo by Derrick P. Begin

“Big Papi,” Dave Ortiz, waves to the crowd during the 2023 Parade of Legends.

Photo by Tara Barnwell

Charter Review Committee Meets

By WRILEY NELSON

ONEONTA

The Charter Review Committee of the Oneonta Common Council met on Thursday, July 20 to discuss potential changes to the city’s governing document.

Chairman Scott Harrington (R-6th Ward) and members

Len Carson (R-5) and Kaytee

Lipari Shue (D-4) met with City Attorney David Merzig to discuss a potential amendment that would allow a majority of the Common Council to remove members of boards and commissions.

Lipari Shue said that under the current system, many boards and commis-

sions do not have attendance requirements and often struggle to conduct business or even achieve a quorum.

Merzig cited a statewide legal opinion that requires a majority of an entire body, not just a majority of a quorum, to pass resolutions; with no attendance enforcement mechanism and no way for the full council to remove board members, absent members can slow down city business significantly.

“It makes a certain amount of sense to be able to appoint someone else,” he said.

The committee also discussed changing the city’s hiring process to allow the city administrator and human resources department

to hire, suspend or remove employees in budgeted positions. Under the current system, the administrator must obtain council ratification to hire department heads. Harrington said that this requirement adds significant delays to the hiring process and that the city has “lost a lot of good potential candidates” due to the slow and uncertain advancement of job offers.

Pending a complete legal review by Merzig, the committee will present its findings to the full Common Council at the August 1 meeting. The current version of the Oneonta City Charter can be found at https:// ecode360.com/15575439.

BFS Completes July Water Sampling

SPRINGFIELD

The SUNY Oneonta

Biological Field

Station collected open water samples and water quality data from Otsego Lake on Wednesday, July 12. Colonies of microcystis, the genus of cyanobacteria responsible for the recent spate of harmful algae blooms in Upstate New York water bodies, were visible in surface waters. No cyanoHAB conditions have been documented to date. Testing sites included an east-west transect running from the BFS boathouse into Hyde Bay, the area of the lake most severely affected by last year’s bloom. Samples were also taken from a north-south transect running the full length of the lake, and from shoreline sites at the boathouse and BFS Main Laboratory. Full results and further testing plans can be found at https://suny.oneonta. edu/biological-field-station.

Updated results were provided at press time following a biweekly sample collection on Monday, July

P/T Aide Caregiver

I live in Cooperstown and use a wheelchair for mobility. Looking for someone to assist me 2-3 days a week 4 - 6 hours each day. Familiarity with basic technology and comfort transportation,providingincluding safe driving habits, is an effective communicator and appreciates variety and conversation. Prior experience with assisting people with a physical disability is a plus. If you are interested, please contact me by phone (text or call) to discuss this opportunity and any questions you may have: 607-437-3577.

24. Three open-water sites and the two shoreline locations were examined, but other samples were not taken due to weather conditions. No surface accumulations or shoreline scums have been documented, and microcystin toxins were not detected. The BFS also clarified that any confirmed shoreline or surface accumulations of cyanobacteria will trigger more frequent testing

at more locations.

Residents are urged to report HAB warning signs, such as floating mats or scums of algae or discolored water, to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation HABs program at https:// www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/83310.html#Report. The program website also links to a map with all confirmed

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The job scene

To place effective employment ads, call 607-547-6103

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, 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.

A Marquee Moment for Fred McGriff, Scott Rolen Class of 2023 Humbled by the Experience

By CHARLIE VASCELLARO COOPERSTOWN

As he walked onto the Hall of Fame

Induction Day stage on Sunday, July 23, “Smilin’ Fred” McGriff reached out to shake the hands of some of the returning Hall of Famers in attendance for the ceremony. Before he was able to find

his seat, he shook the hands of just about everyone on stage. It was a long overdue and respectful welcome into baseball’s most esteemed fraternity.

After falling short of being elected to the Hall of Fame during his 10 years of eligibility on the Baseball Writers Ballot, the man affectionately known as the “Crime Dog”

Photo by Steven Krasner/Nudging the Imagination Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred, National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum President Josh Rawitch, 2023 inductee Scott Rolen and Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

EDITORIaL

Summer Heats

Here in this beautiful county of ours it turns out we have been, and still are, extremely lucky. The killing heat that has settled on most of the rest of the world has not come to us. Yet. Even last weekend’s Hall of Fame Induction survived excessive heat damage, with the many baseball fans who traditionally flock to Cooperstown to sit out in the sun endlessly: hoping for attention from their idols negotiating the golf course; lurking at the gates of The Otesaga in hopes of a peek at a player coming or going; lining Main Street to get even closer as the Hall of Fame parade goes by; and then, at last, perching on chairs and blankets for several hours, helping the powers that be induct their heroes. Indeed, last weekend close to 80 million Americans experienced a heat index of at least 105 degrees, partly created by El Nino and a stagnant jet stream. Here, though, that index was merely fluctuating in the high 70s pretty much each day. In the rest of the world, violent typhoons were threatening Asia and flash floods loomed large in this country. Heat waves are taxing power grids, driving up already high health-care costs and challenging tourists planning summer holidays. In fact, these waves are on their way to impacting a good deal of our lives. Extreme heat is fast becoming the new norm, and our cities and towns are to this point somewhat ill-equipped to deal with these kinds of summers. So, it behooves every one of us to figure out just how to deal with it.

For people, and as well for animals. Managing our pets, work animals and livestock in a heat wave requires good planning. They need sufficient shade, good ventilation, ample amounts of cool water and no long automobile or trailer rides; they should not be exercised in the heat of the day, and their exercise, at cooler times, should be minimal. Extreme heat, which we in Otsego County have not experienced thus far this summer but could, as predicted, in August, leads to significant stress in all animals. And stress leads to excessive panting, a higher respiratory rate, more water intake, loss of appetite, lethargy, excessive salivation and, in the end, unconsciousness.

Young animals, old animals and dark-colored animals suffer the highest risk for heat stress. Pigs, newly shorn sheep and light-colored and/or pinkskinned animals (including dogs) get sunburned; dogs’ feet burn on pavements. Lactating, heavy and high-milk-producing cattle are all high-risk animals; Holsteins are less tolerant than Jerseys; British breeds of cattle and sheep are less tolerant than merino and tropical breeds. Cattle, llamas and alpacas are more prone to stress than sheep and goats.

Birds, too, are seriously affected by these new, high, heat waves, which put them, as well, at a greater risk for stress. They have no sweat glands and must up their breathing rate to cool off, much as dogs do when panting. Nesting birds, especially those that choose shade-challenged nest boxes, are more apt to stress. The best we can do for our feathered pals is to give them some deep shade and a lot of water, both to drink up and to splash in.

But we digress. The Baseball Hall of Fame Induction is over. The British Open is over. The Tour de France is over. The FIFA Women’s World Cup is in the throes of making history. Stay cool and watch.

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.

Welcome to Biasville, Where Partiality Thrives

For fun this summer, to learn about confirmation bias, we mind-travel to the great and prosperous town of Biasville, where the people have odd names and the drama never ends. It’s not hard to find Biasville: You can get there by traveling through Emotion Junction, Ingroup Outpost, Heuristic Harbor (aka, the Mental Shortcut), Faux Memory Lane, Overconfidence Overpass, or—shudder—the Valley of Dissonance. Here, the clash of ideas, perspectives, and even facts creates so much unease and tension in travelers that the uncertainty drives them straight up the ravine to safety in Biasville.

According to the local Biasville meteorologist, Weatherman Willy, the sun only shines upon the townspeople when his wife, Charmaine, wears the steel charm bracelet he gave her. It only rains when she forgets to wear it, he states. Neither notices the layer of rust formed by the many times she’s worn the bracelet in the rain. If you point this out, even on a rainy day, Charmaine starts wailing and Willy will run you out of town.

Charmaine’s best friend is Echo-Chamber Evelyn, who only reads the more radical “Biasville Times.” The editor of the “Biasville Times,” Party-Line Pauline, dismisses the many angry letters to the editor sent to her by Historic Harry, who clings to old traditions and rejects everything written after 1980, even the good journalism Pauline sometimes includes.

Historic Harry’s daughter is Selective Sally, whose work as director of the college chemistry lab always seems to confirm her hypotheses. Most volunteers for her medical trials are Caucasian males from her college classes. Sally has a deep and abiding hatred of her former high-school enemies: Crystal-Clear Clara, Fortune-Telling Felicia, Homeopathy Hailey, Product Patty, and Zodiac Zoey. They claim Sally’s birth chart is an Aries Sun and Scorpio Moon with Capricorn Rising—that is, Sally is occasionally aggressive, liable to hold grudges, reserved, and calculating. All six women still fight to be noticed by the dashing Perfect Peter, who never admits to being wrong, claiming that any mistakes are caused by others around him. He’s currently dating Rosy-Eyed Rachel, who can only see Peter’s virtues and none of his (many) vices.

Perfect Peter’s roommate, Failing Fred, is the celebrated nerd of Biasville, but he’d be the last to admit it. He’s convinced he’ll fail every exam, and he only remembers the questions he got wrong. He has a crush on Snack-Attack Sandra, who eats junk food all day long but doesn’t think she’s gaining any weight, excusing her consistently unhealthy choices as anomalies. She enthusiastically celebrates any newspaper article and scientific study claiming that alcohol, marijuana, and chocolatecovered açaí berries are good for the body.

Sandra’s mother, Prejudiced Penelope, developed a deep-seated loathing for anyone from Colombia whose name begins with C. This is one of many reasons she refuses to talk to her ex, Conspiracy Carl from Colombia. For decades, Conspiracy Carl—who now shares a bachelor apartment with Vax-Veto Victor—has been deeply convinced that the two owners of the Biasville baseball team are engaged in fraudulent activity. He claims that Lucky Larry (who always wears an unwashed jersey to baseball games) and Brand-Loyal Brian (who forces the team to use one kind of bat) are secretly evil Jews who control the banking sector of Biasville by laundering money through baseball team finances. Conspiracy Carl is also convinced that anyone from the Valley of Dissonance is a godless heathen out to destroy his beliefs, or at least forcefully vaccinate him, as Vax-Veto Victor thinks. He’s ready and waiting with one of Brian’s trusty bats to take out the kneecaps of these valley goons.

One day, an old man and his granddaughter emerged from the Valley of Dissonance. They live down there and like it there, it was whispered about town. Miracle Mack, the Biasville doctor and the Biasville preacher, said the granddaughter’s parents died because they refused to be

healed by his practice and his parish. In sorrow, the old man took the girl to live in the Valley of Dissonance. Their rare visits to Biasville were not welcome.

“We never find anything good in this town,” Cyril the Cynic grumbled to his granddaughter, noticing the dark looks from Charmaine and Evelyn. Evelyn scurried off to spread the news.

“Yes, we do,” replied Samantha the Skeptic.

“Remember what Carl Sagan said: ‘If you are only skeptical, then no new ideas make it through to you. You never learn anything new.’”

“Sam, Carl Sagan loved pot and aliens,” Cyril snorted. “Yes, but he also promoted rational thinking and inspired many people to pursue science and scientific thinking,” said Sam. “If there’s one thing we can agree on, it’s the universal need to question our assumptions, seek reliable evidence, and be open to change when new reliable evidence presents itself.”

“Good luck with that,” Cyril said. They walked toward the park, passing Clara’s Holistic Healing Spa and Sally’s Pharmacy. “They remember the hits but forget or downplay the misses,” Cyril said sadly. “That’s why I hate this town. Confirmation bias in a nutshell.”

“Grandpa, maybe you only remember the misses,” Sam laughed. “Isn’t that just as bad?”

Cyril grunted, sat down on a park bench, and took out his pipe. Sam looked shocked.

“What? When I’m in Biasville, a little tobacco never hurts,” he said, then winced. “I swear, I get dumber by the second when I’m here. Why is credulity so catching these days?”

Sam sighed and sat down next to her grandfather. “Truth can be cruel, Grandpa, you know that. And like Henri Poincaré said, we wonder whether delusion is not more consoling. I know you were hurt by what Miracle Mack said about my parents. But we mustn’t shut ourselves off from people we disagree with—if we do, we have to start paying taxes to Biasville. There are still good, new things to learn and experience here. This is why I drag you here from time to time.”

“If you keep your mind too open, your brain falls out,” Cyril puffed.

Sam laughed. “I’m going to grab a copy of ‘Biasville Times’—and the ‘Biasville Post’ and the ‘Biasville Gazette.’ It’s good to triangulate information. Sometimes Sally’s published studies are really good, and I heard all three papers are reporting how Larry and Brian exceeded their luxury tax threshold as owners and have to pay up. Anyway, after I read the papers, we can hit up Consolation Café for coffee and cupcakes before the baseball game starts. Sound good?”

Cyril nodded meekly, and after she left, he even nodded a cordial good-morning to Conspiracy Carl as he passed by. Conspiracy Carl’s brooding expression and his grip on the baseball bat softened.

Names and places have been highly exaggerated here for comedic effect—we often remember concepts better through humor—but whether we admit it to ourselves or not, we all have relatives in Biasville.

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

What I Learned from Summer Opera

Frick Cardelle, Elizabeth Cooper, Maureen Culbert, Richard deRosa, Caspar Ewig, Ian Kenyon, Marcia Kozubek, 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

My daughter is performing in the youth chorus of “La Bohème” this summer and seeing her in a dazzling and energetic production at the Glimmerglass Festival in Cooperstown has sparked something long dormant in me. In my high school and college years, I devoted a great deal of time to theatrical productions. After graduation I left those dreams behind, finding my way to a career as a historian and professor who writes and teaches about music and American culture. I’m content now to see my teenage daughter discover the pleasure of creating something magical on stage.

Watching “La Bohème” on opening night did more than bring back a flood of nostalgic memories. As I sat in the audience, I gave very little thought to my rather modest

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR … In THEIR OPInIOn

Ban Heavy Vehicles from State Route 80

Except for local deliveries, very large trucks and tour buses over 10,000 pounds should be prohibited on roadways next to Otsego Lake. Both roads adjacent to the lake have had catastrophic failures in recent

“glory days”; instead, I was happy to play the role of proud parent. A major source of joy was seeing my daughter be part of such an obviously enthusiastic and collegial ensemble. “La Bohème” is the ideal vehicle for this kind of collective, artistic spirit. As with many Gen Xers, my first exposure to Puccini’s masterpiece was through Jonathan Larson’s “Rent,” which my girlfriend (now wife) purchased tickets for us to see on Broadway during its original run. The raw energy of that show is still ingrained in my mind. “Rent,” like “La Bohème,” tells the story of a group of starving artists in a vibrant, if unforgiving city. Both are tragedies, but there is so much joie de vivre among the players that one could be forgiven for focusing on the joy rather than the sadness. The

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years due to the fact that the underlying soil conditions simply do not support the ongoing impact of 18wheeled trucks and large tour buses. The damage to roads by overly large vehicles is exponentially greater than that of a car. Neither road is sufficiently policed for speeders—so large trucks use the lake roads as freeways. State

Route 80 should be rerouted away from Cooperstown and Springfield Center. The Village of Cooperstown should take the lead on this along with Otsego County. The destruction of the lakeside by 18-wheelers must stop. Chip Northrup Cooperstown

210 YEARS AGO

Letter from Com. Lewis to the Secretary of the Navy—Off Sandy Hook, July 6: “Sir, I have the pleasure to inform you of the capture of the British sloop tender Eagle which for some time had been employed by Com. Beresford for the purpose of burning the coasters, &c. Her force was two officers and 11 men, with a 32 brass howitzer. This service was performed in a most gallant and officer-like manner by Sailing-Master Percival, who with volunteers from the flotilla which I have the honor to command, jumped on board a fishing smack, run the enemy alongside and carried him by a coup de main. I am sorry to add, that in this little affair, the enemy lost the commanding officer, one midshipman, mortally wounded, and two seamen badly.”

July 24, 1813

185 YEARS AGO

There is nothing that more strongly illustrates the immense power possessed by the banking and stock-jobbing interest over the politics of this country, than a reference to the means used by the United States Bank, by which it obtained so great a force through the press and in Congress, when engaged in its struggle for a re-charter. From what may be learned from the facts then developed, it will not be found difficult for one to come to a proper judgment in regard to the power now in operation throughout the whole country, by which every effort of the Administration in separating so impure an influence from the use and control of the public money, has not only been foiled, but has been most iniquitously tortured by venal presses and selfish and unprincipled legislators, into a warring of the government against the people – the very people to whose Constitution that Government has made it its chief object to observe both letter and spirit.

July 23, 1838

135 YEARS AGO

William Kinne of Warren, Herkimer County, just on the line of Richfield, commenced taking “The Freeman’s Journal” in the spring of 1822, and continued a subscriber until the time of his death a few weeks since, a period of 66 years, and it now goes to his widow. We think there is no name remaining on our subscription list that has been there for an equal period, though there are families in which the Journal has been taken through the period of its existence, eighty years.

July 27, 1888

110 YEARS AGO

In Our Town Mr. and Mrs. August Busch of St. Louis are spending some time at Uncas Lodge. On August 9th, Mr. Busch expects to sail for Europe.

Augustus Gage, the ice man, lost one of his team on Tuesday. “Tige” who has endeavored to keep the summer visitors cool during the hot weather succumbed to the heat Monday and after passing a restless night was chloroformed by Dr. A.E. Young.

July 30, 1913

85 YEARS AGO

A bronze bust of Christy Mathewson by the American sculptor Gertrude Boyle Kanno, who died in San Francisco, California August 16, 1937 has recently been obtained by the National Baseball Museum. The bust occupies a prominent place in the museum, near other personal belongings of the beloved and prominent pitcher, which were presented by his widow. The bust was molded in plaster by Mrs. Kanno, wife of Takashi Kanno the Japanese poet. Before she started modeling Mathewson’s bust she passed dozens of afternoons at baseball parks watching him play. Later, he posed at her studio.

July 27, 1938

60 YEARS AGO

Steven A. Konchar, age 16, of Christian Hill was crushed to death last Friday beneath a car he was working on at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Konchar. According to state police authorities, Konchar jacked the Pontiac car up and then crawled beneath it to work. The car slipped off the jack and crushed the boy. He was found by his father. The boy was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Richard Ryder of the Bassett Hospital staff.

July 24, 1963

STEP Program Thanks to Innovation Council, Scriven

In mid-March of this year, I joined other leaders of community-based and community-led institutions from across the region at the launch of the Regional Innovation Council. I am honored to be among a leadership team that has brought together 75 individuals from 30 organizations, including non-profits, human service agencies, and healthcare and education institutions. This council seeks to bring regional issues to the forefront, like workforce development and employee recruitment and retention, and create solutions and opportunities for our community through collaborative partnerships.

Two months ago, a group of 25 dedicated direct support professional employees of Springbrook gathered in a classroom at our Main Campus for the inaugural Springbrook Training and Education Program. This one-of-a-kind program was developed with SUNY Oneonta as part of one of the many collaborative partnerships the Regional Innovation Council has brought to fruition. STEP offers a tuition-free educational opportunity to DSPs designed to provide knowledge about human services, specifically working with persons with disabilities and their families, loved ones, and caregivers. These staff members come from Springbrook’s many programs, including Community Homes, Capstone Day Habilitation, employment services, dietary services, and The School at Springbrook. When I spoke with STEP participants, a common theme emerged. These staff were excited to be with new and long-time coworkers who share a common goal—progress and the pursuit of knowledge. Many students shared sentiments like wanting to “grow my knowledge and understand the best ways to support the people we serve” and “share what I learn with the community.” I am so proud of this group of DSPs for taking this step to build a foundation for their education to better the people they serve, themselves, their coworkers, and their community.

Speaking to SUNY Oneonta President Dr. Alberto Cardelle, also a leadership team member for the Regional Innovation Council, he shared our sentiment for the constant pursuit of collaborative community partnerships. Indeed, this partnership widens the prospects for a community of staff to broaden their

By MERL REAGLE

knowledge. Investing in the future takes planning and commitment, so when this opportunity was brought before me, I had two thoughts: 1. This is an opportunity to encourage and empower our employees to take the first step toward higher and continuing education, and; 2. This will give those staff who have never pursued higher education a chance to have a college-like experience among their peers in a setting they know and are comfortable with. It will also build our staff’s skillsets and expand the care they can provide to the greater community. I am grateful for the clarity of commitment everyone in this partnership shares for our mission.

We are so fortunate for opportunities like this one and the ongoing support we have had from donors and likeminded foundations like The Scriven Foundation. The Scriven Foundation has provided the necessary sponsorship of STEP. Without a shared vision for the community and commitment to bettering the lives of everyone in it, programs like STEP would not be possible. I want to thank everyone, from donors to our partnership with SUNY Oneonta, and the Regional Innovation Council, who have made STEP possible for our employees and our community. Supporting first steps is immensely empowering for those who take them. As a community, we are proud of all our staff who have taken this step to broaden their knowledge and expand their skill set. In doing so, they are not only strengthening themselves as individuals but also contributing to the collective strength of our community as we continue to foster a brighter future for all we serve.

Patricia

Kennedy is the chief executive officer of Springbrook.

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

Stagecoach Run Art Festival Gets Back on Track First Weekend of July

By TERESA WINCHESTER

FRANKlIN

After a three-year hiatus, the Stagecoach Run Art Festival got underway once more over the weekend of July 1-2. The event is sonamed because the majority of exhibits are located along a route once known as the Catskill Turnpike, which ran from Catskill in Greene County westward to Unadilla and on to places north. Upwards of 50 artists displayed their works in their homes, studios, galleries, barns and in other venues in the Village of Franklin and its neighboring hamlet, Treadwell. Both are in Delaware County. Attendees were provided with maps to facilitate self-guided tours of the 24 possible stops.

As stated on the event’s website, “The festival’s original mission was to use an open-studio model to strengthen (sometimes forge) relationships between creatives and their neighbors in an authentic way while simultaneously demonstrating the undeniable financial and cultural value that artists can add to a community.”

Phil Warish, proprietor of Blue Farm Antiques and letterpress Printing in Franklin, and one of the principal organizers of the festival, expressed satisfaction with how the all-volunteer undertaking has evolved from a 30-person event to one that has at times exceeded 60 artists.

“The festival has changed in character from open invitation to vetted artists only. It has grown in quality and professionalism,” Warish said, adding that while he did not yet have an official count for attendance, more than 180 people visited his shop on June 2 alone. Warish customarily hosts another artist at Blue Farm for the event—this year, still-life artist Judith lamb.

Three artists—ceramic artists Elizabeth Nields and Esperanza Rancero, along with stylist and designer Helen Quinn—exhibited their work in an architecturally interesting straw bale house in Treadwell.

“It was wonderful…so much positive energy, and I was thrilled to be exhibited

John B. Odell Jr.

1961-2023

COOPERSTOWN—John

Browning Odell Jr., a man devoted to his family, his faith in God, and his community, passed away Monday morning, July 17, 2023, following a valiant battle with pneumonia. His wife and children were with him. He was 62.

Born July 9, 1961 in Sacramento, California, he was the son of the late John Browning Odell and Shirley Hartmann Odell Kirby.

When he was a toddler, the family moved back to Newport News in Tidewater Virginia, where generations of Odells lived. He attended

in Margoli Veillon’s straw bale house. The organizers worked tirelessly. They were so professional,” Quinn said.

Besides viewing artwork on display, the festival also offered multiple demonstrations: pottery techniques (Rhonda Harrow-Engel); various methods of painting (Sandra Finkenberg, Elissa Gore, Abbey Koutnik, Gail Robinson); printmaking (Amy Silberkleit); and sculpting (Diana Hall). Tim Carbone demonstrated methods of discovering the grain patterns for pictures while Kathleen Hayek gave demonstrations for basic papermaking and pulp spraying.

On the evenings of July 1 and 2, Franklin Stage Company presented admission-free performances of “Good People,” written by David lindsay-Abaire and directed by Chris O’Connor.

“It was such a pleasure to have Stagecoach Run Art Festival return after the hiatus. So many talented artists live in this area! I am already looking forward to next year,” said Franklin resident lynne Kemen.

Davidson College in North Carolina, where he earned his degree in history. (He recently attended his 40th reunion and was a proud Wildcat.) His love of history led him to the National Park Service where he was a park ranger at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, and then to the Curator’s Office at the United States Senate in Washington, D.C. He met Margaret “Peg” Schmid at the Senate. They married in 1992 and lived in Arlington, Virginia. While working at the Senate fulltime he earned his Master’s in Museum Studies at George Washington University.

After 14 years at the Senate, he read a job listing that merged his museum vocation with his lifelong passion for baseball.

As a result, John has served as Curator of History and Research for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for 24 years, working with great people and telling wonderful stories through print and exhibits. He was frequently told he had the best job, and he agreed.

Dignity, Respect, Tradition

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

Peter A. Deysenroth

|

OBITUARIES

John served his community in many ways. A faithful and dedicated member of Christ Church in Cooperstown, he was currently serving as Senior Warden. He participated in and then led a weekly 6 a.m. Men’s Bible Study for almost two decades. He had been a coach and board member for Cooperstown Youth Baseball. While he was an Orioles fan, he loved seeing any baseball game, at any level, especially when it was live and in person.

He had served on the Parks Board for Cooperstown, and on the board of Friends of the Parks for many years. He stepped back from volunteering in March 2020 when he was diagnosed with lymphoma, which he fought bravely with the guidance of Bassett Healthcare and the caring people there. He was delighted to “ring the bell” marking the end of his chemotherapy in August 2022, and he and Peg celebrated with a trip to Portugal.

John loved the outdoors and instilled a love for it in his children. The family enjoyed hiking locally and on vacation. He was an excellent trivia player, crossword puzzle completer, and he grilled up excellent salmon.

John is survived by his

wife, Peg Schmid Odell, of Cooperstown and their three children, Rebecca louise Odell of Albany, John Floyd “Jack” Odell of Cooperstown, and Emrys Carleton Odell of Cooperstown. His family love him very much and will miss having such a thoughtful, funny, caring, and supportive husband and dad. He is further survived by a sister, Beth Odell Dunn of Newport News, Virginia, and a brother, Scott Odell and his partner Marci Kisling of Quinton, Virginia, as well as his wife’s mother, Ruth A. Schmid of Mount laurel, New Jersey, and Peg’s siblings, Barbara Schmid Heifetz and husband, Hal, of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, and William O. Schmid and wife, lori, of Allendale, New Jersey and their families, his aunt Nancy Hartmann Welker, and a stepfather, Douglas Kirby. He enjoyed spending time with family, including much loved cousins, at the holidays, in creeks, at the beach, and at Taff Family reunions.

Friends are welcome to pay their respects to the Odell family from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, July 24, 2023 at the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown. A service

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.

will be offered at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at Christ Church, 46 River Street in Cooperstown, with Father Nathan Ritter, Rector, officiating. Immediately following the funeral there will be a reception in the Parish Hall.

Interment will be private in lakewood Cemetery, Cooperstown, where John will be laid to rest near Fairy Spring, where he and his family enjoyed picnics, cooling off in the lake, and kayaking.

In lieu of flowers, John’s family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to Friends of the Parks, PO Box 1008, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

John would encourage each of us to take that trip, to enjoy a hike, to call a friend, to spend time with family, and to go see a ballgame.

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

Norma L. Onyan 1930-2023 COOPERSTOWN—

Norma louise Onyan, a long-time resident of Cooperstown, entered into eternal rest Friday afternoon, July 21, 2023, at her home on the southern shore of Otsego lake in the Village of Cooperstown. She was 92.

Born December 13, 1930 in Wichita, Kansas, she was one of eight children of Ernest Edward Rothwell and Myrtle Grace Powell Rothwell.

In her youth, she and her family moved to New York State and settled in Peekskill. She would later move upstate, and for a time was employed by McCredy Motors in Sherburne. Norma moved her family to Cooperstown when she was employed at Smith-Cooperstown Inc. as the office manager.

Norma is survived by her son, Gregory l. Onyan of Fly Creek; a daughterin-law, Wendy A. Onyan of Fly Creek; grandchildren, Jacqueline Savoie (Benjamin), Joshua Onyan, Amanda Swatling, Garret Bucklad and Joanna Onyan; and great grandchildren, Nathaniel and Christopher Savoie, Gillian and Addison Onyan and Cole and liam Hribar. She is further survived by her siblings, Geraldine Irwin, Edward Rothwell and wife Frances, Roy Rothwell, loren Rothwell, sister-inlaw, Sally Rothwell, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved, Edward C. Smith, who died January 21, 2017; two sons, Bradley Onyan, who died March 26, 2004, and Terry Onyan, who died October 15, 2022; her daughter, louise Ann Wayman, who died April 24, 2023; a granddaughter, Christina Wayman Selan, who died April 3, 2007; a sister, Carolyn Miles; and two brothers, Richard and Robert Rothwell.

Norma’s family extends their thanks and appreciation to all the dear friends and healthcare workers and Helios Staff for all the care and support they provided which allowed her to remain in her beloved home on Otsego lake.

At the request of the family, services will be private. She will be laid to rest alongside Ed and Bradley in lakewood Cemetery in Cooperstown.

In lieu of flowers, Norma’s family respectfully requests that memorial donations be directed to the Susquehanna SPCA, 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820.

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

Photo provided JOHN B. ODELL JR.

Photos by Teresa Winchester

Artist Steff Rocknak of Oneonta exhibited her work in Treadwell for the Annual Stagecoach Run Art Festival (left). “Arctic Wolf,” a paper mache with lime paint by Helen Quinn, was part of a three-artist exhibit in an architecturally interesting straw bale house in Treadwell.

Photos by Teresa Winchester

Painter Bruce Goddard, with his work in Treadwell (above). Abbey Koutnik of Oneonta exhibited both ceramics and paintings during the Stagecoach Run (right).

Annual SQSPCA Golf Tournament Weekend Tees Off August 11-13

COOPERSTOWN

the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is seeking golfers and community supporters for its Robert B. Schlather SQSPCA Golf Tournament held at the Otsego Golf Club the weekend of August 11-13.

This annual fundraiser commemorates longtime SQSPCA friend and avid golfer, Bob Schlather. SQSPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes said, “We are grateful for Bob’s commitment to animal welfare and his encouragement of the shelter and the work we do in the community. He is missed by all who had the great fortune to know him.”

Players register ahead on the shelter’s website at sqspca.org and then call OGC at 607-547-9290 to select the tee time that works for them. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. all three days. Standard regis-

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Notice of Public forum

A public forum will be held in the gym of the Community Center at 129 County Highway 29A, Springfield Center, NY 13468 on August 2, 2023 from 6:30 to 8 PM. Two speakers will be present to discuss the health of Otsego Lake.

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Notice of Public HeAriNG

NOTICE IS

HEREBY GIVEN that the Historic Preservation and Architectural Review Board for the Village of Cooperstown will hold the following public hearing on Tuesday, August 8, 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.

69 Beaver Street - Demolition of a non-contributing garage.

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 Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 3:30 p.m.

Jenna Utter

Village Clerk Village of Cooperstown 22 Main Street Cooperstown, NY 13326

Tele: (607)547-2411

Email: jutter@cooperstownny.org

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Notice of formAtioN of The Chief Schenevus, LLC.

tration is $60.00 per person and includes green fees for 18 holes, a cart, and goodie bag (while supplies last).

Registration Plus Care covers the standard registration with an additional donation to benefit animal care at the shelter, including rescue and surrender services, medical treatment, shelter and residential services, and adoption counseling. There are four Plus Care levels ranging from $200.00-$500.00 for one to four golfers.

“We are including Registration Plus Care options this year to provide opportunities for giving that extend beyond the cost of play,” said Haynes. “Every dollar raised supports the care of animals. As of today, we have provided care for 867 animals this year. On any given day, we care for 100 animals either on site at the shelter, with our foster families, at Petco in Oneonta, or, in the case of our larger rescues such as horses and

Arts. of org. filed with SSNY on 07/13/2023.

Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 104 Stevens RD, PO Box 126, Maryland, NY 12116.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.31

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Notice of formAtioN of Oneonta Family Medicine PLLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/10/23

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 1123 County Highway 26, Fly Creek NY 13337.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.31

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Notice of formAtioN of RSD Enterprises LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the SSNY on 6/29/2023.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RSD Enterprises LLC, c/o Robert Dunbar 235 Flax Island Rd, Otego, NY 13825.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.31

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Notice of formAtioN of Domestic limiteD liAbility comPANy

Name: Phoenix Herbs, LLC

Date of Formation: March 25, 2023. County: Otsego. Secretary of State of New York desig-

nated as agent of LLC upon whom process against LLC may be served with copies then mailed to: Phoenix Herbs, LLC, 114 Morrell Rd., Worcester, NY 12197.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of Dream Exotics, LLC.

Filed 6/16/23. Cty: Otsego. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 389 Chestnut St, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purp: any lawful.

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of A Ny limiteD liAbility comPANy.

Name: KING CABIN LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 12 July 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 8129 St Hwy 28, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

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

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of Olivia The Creative, LLC.

Articles of organization filed with SSNY on June 28, 2023. Location: Otsego County SSNY is designated agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 25 Woodside Avenue, Oneonta, NY 13820.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.24

other farm animals, at offsite facilities through our Farm Friends Network or partners in the Otsego County Animal

Cruelty Task Force. Every animal, whether onsite or offsite, is fully supported by the shelter. All food, medical

LEGALS

LegaL nOtice Notice of formAtioN of A Ny limiteD liAbility comPANy.

Name: HOTDOG VENTURES, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 16 June 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 434 Williams Road, Cooperstown, New York 13326.

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

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of WAXING GIBBOUS, LLC.

Filed 5/20/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Julia Hickey, 153 Irish Hollow Rd, Cherry Valley, NY 13320.

Purpose: General.

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of limiteD liAbility comPANy:

The name of the limited liability company is: Mooi Leven, LLC (the “Company”).

The date of filing of the Articles of Organization of the Company with the Secretary of State was December 22, 2022. The county in which the principal place of business of the Company shall be located is Otsego County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served. The Secretary of State shall mail a copy of

care and equipment needs are provided by the shelter.”

Golf add-ons of a mulligan or miracle putt are available when registering for $10.00 each. A new feature is a Casino Hole, wherein a golfer can place a cash bet on holes 9 and 18 and, if they make a hole-in-one, they win the accumulated cash. Golfers who play 18 holes can turn their score card in to the pro shop at the end of play to determine the low gross male and female winners. For those interested in the fundraiser but who are unable to join SQSPCA at the golf course, there are other ways to participate. Gifts in lieu of attendance or personalized donations honoring beloved pets can be made through the registration page. Pets’ names will be included on SQSPCA’s tribute board displayed at the golf club throughout the event. Scorecard, golf cart, and hole sponsorship oppor-

tunities are available and can be arranged by contacting Sarah Wilcox at (607) 5478111, extension 106, or swilcox@sqspca.org.

Haynes added, “We are truly grateful for every single contribution. The shelter and its services are here because of the community coming together in support of vulnerable animals in our region. Together, we make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Thank you for joining us in our mission.”

In operation since 1917, the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a 501c3 charitable organization committed to caring for homeless, surrendered, and seized companion animals and finding them loving, forever homes. The shelter is located at 5082-5088 State Highway 28, just south of the Village of Cooperstown. For more information or to donate, visit www.sqspca.org

any process against the Company, to Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP, Attn: Christina J. Graziadei, 80 Exchange Street, Ste 700, Binghamton, NY 13901. The purpose of the business of the Company is any lawful business purpose.

6LegalAug.24

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Notice of formAtioN of Empire Electrical Controls LLC.

Filed 2/6/23.

Office: Otsego Co. SSNY desig. as agent for process & shall mail to: Joshua Cormier, 2321 State Highway 80, Burlington Flats, NY 13315.

Purpose: General.

6LegalAug.17

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Notice of formAtioN of PLEASANT BROOK HOTEL LLC

Filed 6/28/23

Office: Otsego Co.

SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 510 State Highway 165, Roseboom, NY 13450

Purpose: all lawful

6LegalAug.17

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Notice of formAtioN of ANSELMO REALTY LLC

Filed 6/28/23

Office: Otsego Co.

SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 510 State Highway 165, Roseboom, NY 13450

Purpose: all lawful

6LegalAug.17

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Notice of formAtioN of ABILENE ACRES, LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/29/23.

Office location: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be

served. SSNY shall mail process to: 633 Dimock Hollow Rd, Morris N.Y. 13808.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalAug.10

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Notice of formAtioN of 45 CEDAR STREET LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/28/23.

Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Michael F. Galella, 76 Hunter Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10704.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.10

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Notice of formAtioN of Beautiful Beginnings Pregnancy & Birth Services LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 6/21/23. Office located in Otsego Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LaurieAnn Norwood, 189 Nersesian Road, Hartwick, NY 13348.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

6LegalAug.10

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Notice of formAtioN of Hawkeye’s Bluff LLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 5/4/2023. Office in Otsego Co. SSNY designated Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Hawkeye’s Bluff, LLC, 50 W 85th Apt 13, New York, NY 10024

Purpose: Any Lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.10

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of

BUTTERNUT VALLEY HERITAGE FARM LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/20/23.

Office: Otsego County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 533 Dimmock Hollow Road, Morris, NY 13808.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

6LegalAug.3

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Notice of formAtioN of Susquehanna Spirit LLC.

Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 6/14/23. Office location: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail process to: c/o Bradley Tillbrooks, 2831 Marsala Court, Orlando, FL 32806.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalAug.3

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Notice of formAtioN of

Name of LLC:

Mountain Side Contracting LLC

Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Department of State:

April 30, 2023

Office of the LLC: Otsego County

The New York Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. The Secretary of State may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at: Mountain Side Contracting LLC at 107 Briar Hill Road, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose of the LLC: Any Lawful Purpose

6LegalAug.3

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Articles of orGANiZAtioN of

LLC

Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law

First: The name of the limited liability company is: N Smith Transport LLC

Second: The county, within this state, in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is OTSEGO.

Third: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against the limited liability company may be served. Th post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon the Secretary of State by personal delivery is: NATIONAL REGISTERED AGENTS, INC., 28 LIBERTY ST., NEW YORK, NY 10005

I certify that I have read the above statements, I am authorized to sign this Articles of Organization, that the above statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and that my signature typed below constitutes my signature. Neil Smith, ORGANIZER (signature), NEIL SMITH ORGANIZER, 1518 CO RT 20, EMESTON, NY 13335

Filed by: NEIL SMITH, 1518 CO RT 20, EDMESTON, NY 13335

6LegalJul.27

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Notice of formAtioN of Weinberg Wealth LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with NYS Dept. of State (SSNY) on 06/17/2023.

Office location: Otsego County SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: 95 Pioneer St Cooperstown, NY 13326.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

6LegalJul.27

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Notice of formAtioN of AZ Residential Properties LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 24, 2023.

Office Location: Otsego County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 21 E James St, Richfield Springs, NY 13439.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

6LegalJul.27

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Notice of formAtioN of Joe’s Buds LLC. Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 6/6/23. Office location: Otsego Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail process to: 29 Miller Street, Oneonta, NY 13820. Purpose: any lawful activities.

6LegalJul.27

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Notice of formAtioN of A Ny limiteD liAbility comPANy.

Name: FANCY FARM 1962 LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 13 June 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 6141 South 2175 East, Ogden, UT 84403. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

6LegalJul.27

Photo by Darla M. Youngs

Funds raised during the upcoming Robert B. Schlather SQSPCA Golf Tournament will be used to care for animals like the dog shown above, rescued last week by the SQSPCA in conjunction with the New York State Police.

Tandem cage producTions llc

will hosT an

open casting call

For The upcoming producTion oF The FeaTure Film iron ore eaters. The Following roles are available:

Michael o’roarke (lead role) . irish immigrant, age range 20-25. iron ore Miner. Heroic. protagonist. Must have prior film and television experience.

Jonathan Weston (second lead)

english / american age range 20-25. aristocratic. cunning. Mine owner’s son. antagonist. Must have prior film and television experience.

richie o’roarke (principle role)

irish immigrant, age range 20-25. Kindhearted brother of Michael o’roarke.

Mary o’roarke (principle role)

poor, irish immigrant, age range 45-50. Mother of Michael o’roarke.

thom o’roarke (principle role)

irish immigrant, age range 45-55. iron ore Miner. in poor health. Weathered. Father of Michael and richie o’roarke.

paul lewsetti (principle role)

italian / american, age range 20-30, iron ore Miner. Michael’s best friend. Unafraid and hates his station in life.

Vince stevenson (supporting role)

age range 25-30, average american. Friend of Jonathan. Works as a clerk

Doors open at 11:00 a.M. anD close at 3:00 p.M all canDiDates sHoUlD bring a cUrrent pHoto anD resUMe.

experience in FilM anD tHeater preFFereD. MUst HaVe FUll aVailability For tHe First HalF oF noVeMber.

location For tHe open casting call Will be at FootHills perForMing arts anD c\iVic center

seconD Floor 24 MarKet street, oneonta, ny

Tandem cage producTions is proudly sposored by

Dreams Summer

Hyde Hall To Feature Special astronomy, Music Fusion Event Sunday

By CaSPaR EWIG SPRINGFIELd

An experience in the fusion of astronomy and classical music will be offered at Hyde Hall on Sunday, July 30. The concert, titled “Celestial Melodies,” will be performed by the Musicians of Ma’alwyck. It will begin indoors at 7 p.m. and will end outdoors, weather permitting, with the viewing of a meteor display.

The concert will open with two classical pieces composed by the late 18th-century and early 19th-century composers and astronomers William Herschel and his sister, Catherine.

“The interesting part of the evening’s performance,” ann-Marie Barker Schwartz of Ma’alwyck said, “will be that the Herschels’ music will be interspersed with visual components of their astronomic legacy as well as readings from the diary of Caroline Herschel, who was a musician and celebrated astronomer in her own right.”

Thereafter, the evening

will continue with other chamber music from that era and close with a new work by composer Max Caplan inspired by the musical tones created by sonification of data received by the National aeronautics and Space administration from outer space.

Caplan, a composer and pianist with a Masters in Composition from the Hartt School of Music and a Ba in Music and Classics from

Union College, has written numerous works including a one-act chamber opera, “aleda or The Flight of the Suff Birdwomen.”

In 1757, William Herschel immigrated to England from Germany to find work as a musician, and subsequently performed as a violist, organist, and harpsicord player. He also composed a number of symphonies, concertos and orchestral pieces. However, William and his sister both developed a passion for astronomy, and he was responsible for a number of astronomical developments including the discovery of the planet Uranus in 1781. Caroline’s work as William’s assistant in his observations, and her own cataloguing of nebulae, earned her a place as the first woman to be honored with a government position by King George III and was ultimately awarded the Gold Medal of the Royal astronomical Society.

The astronomical theme of the evening will continue with the performance of Max Caplan’s orchestration, titled “Invocation,” which draws on the musical tones arising

from the data received by NaSa from outer space.

“The two movements of his piece—‘Order’ and ‘Chaos’—are really remarkable,” according to Norman Thibodeau, the flutist of the Musicians of Ma’alwyck. and for those to whom that definition is merely a series of words strung together without meaning, Caplan’s work can best be explained by noting that “flat data received by NaSa from outer space can be transformed into non speech

audio, or musical mellow soundwaves which Mr. Caplan has taken and molded into an orchestral piece,” Thibodeau explained.

Founded in 1999 by violinist and director annMarie Barker Schwartz, the Musicians of Ma’alwyck is a flexible-sized classical chamber music ensemble centered in the Capital Region of New york. The Musicians of Ma’alwyck shares history through music through performing at historical sites and other venues

to cultivate and promote an appreciation for the diverse, rich culture of New york State.

Tickets for the concert may be purchased for $25.00 by visiting the website, www. hydehall.org /events-2/, or at the door. The concert will take place in a recently renovated building on the Hyde Hall property referred to as the Woodshed. and if the weather and sky conditions permit, the performance will end outdoors to see the

Continued on page 13

Photo provided

The Musicians of Ma’alwyck are Norman Thibodeau, Ann-Marie Barker Schwartz and Sten Yngvar Isachsen.

Dreams Summer

The Upper Unadilla Valley Association will host demonstrations of unique hobbies by Steve Davis and Richard Sherman at 654 U.S. Route 20, West Winfield from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, July 30.

Davis, who is hosting the event at his residence, will demonstrate the antique windmill and sawmill he has painstakingly restored.

The wooden windmill, which dates to 1877, came from the hamlet of Toddsville in Otsego County. It was chopped down and fell into a swamp around 1940. Many of its parts had been lost before Davis recovered the remaining mechanism two years ago.

The saw mill, built around 1915, had disintegrated in an Edmeston pasture. Davis raked the field by hand to uncover small pieces. He used the saw mill to prepare materials for the windmill restoration.

Sherman, who grew up in Oriskany Falls, taught himself to play and repair organs. He started playing musical instruments at the age of 6, and spent much of his childhood among the collection of historical, restored, and unusual instruments at the former Musical Museum in Deansboro. He has performed on or repaired organs at the Stanley Theatre in Utica, the Capitol Theatre in Rome, the Shea Theatre in Buffalo and the New York State Fair.

A self-described organ enthusiast, Sherman will discuss various types of organs and will bring a variety of pipes and regulators to demonstrate how the instruments produce their unique sounds.

The UUVA is a nonprofit that promotes the Unadilla Valley region’s historic and unique buildings, gardens, art, nature, and renewable energy sources. Originally founded in 1969 to oppose major dam construction in the valley, it conducts summer tours to show off the area’s natural and constructed treasures.

***

The highly anticipated 25th anniversary season of the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival opens on Tuesday, August 1 at 7 p.m. at The Otesaga Resort Hotel. The 2023 lineup of concerts will captivate Cooperstown audiences and beyond with world-class talent and unforgettable performances.

what’s fun in OtsegO COunty BEST BETS

“We’re looking forward to sharing this special 25th year with music lovers of all stripes, as we embark on a remarkable musical journey that showcases an exceptional array of artists from diverse genres,” said Festival Founder and Artistic Director Linda Chesis.

From jazz legends to classical ensembles, each performance embodies the spirit of collaboration, inviting audiences to experience the powerful synergy created when talented musicians join forces. The festival’s commitment to artistic innovation is evident in performances that push boundaries, introducing audiences to new musical territories as well as to novel expressions of more traditional genres.

Taking place every Tuesday in August at various venues in Cooperstown, including The Otesaga Resort Hotel and The Farmers’ Museum, the festival has become synonymous with the fusion of musical excellence, collaborative spirit, artistic innovation, and the celebration of classical masters.

Kicking off the 2023 season is Harry Allen’s All Star New York Saxophone Band. Jazz saxophone legend Harry Allen joins forces with Ken Peplowski and Grant Stewart on tenor saxophone, Gary Smulyan on baritone saxophone, James Chirillo on guitar, Mike Karn on bass and Aaron Kimmel on drums

for an evening of small group jazz with a big band feel.

Founded in 1999 by flutist Linda Chesis, the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival has been bringing world-class chamber music performances to the Cooperstown area for 25 years. The festival has featured performances by the American, Juilliard, St. Lawrence, Jupiter, and Jasper String Quartets, Stefon Harris, Bill Charlap, Kurt Elling, Simone Dinnerstein, Mark O’Connor, John Pizzarelli, the Sonia Olla Flamenco Dance Company, and many more.

The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

Tickets are $30 for adults

and $15 for students under 18. Tickets for all events must be purchased in advance either online from www.cooperstownmusicfest.org or over the phone by calling Purplepass Tickets at 800-316-8559 and selecting Option 1. Please note there is a $2 service fee per phone order.

The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

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25 Main Collective will hold an opening reception for “The Chervillians” from 58 p.m. on Friday, August 4.

The exhibition will be open through Sunday, August 27 and feature the work of Cherry Valley artists Nora Crain (charcoals), Pam Noonan (ceramic and metal), Helen Truszkowski (photography), Myra Watkins Searles (ceramics), and Carol Goss (painting).

The reception features the music of Paul Bley.

JOIN US FOR LUNCH!

Come enjoy a hot meal and the company of others at any of our dining centers throughout the county. Residents age 60 and older are encouraged to have lunch, socialize and enjoy playing cards or a board game with friends and neighbors.

Merchants: Weekend Crowd Smaller, Personable, Enthusiastic as always

By CaSPaR EWIG COOPERSTOWN

Cooperstown survived another Induction Weekend, and although the crowd was much smaller than in past years, the general consensus was that it was nevertheless a successful event. For the Hall of Fame staff responsible for organizing the housing at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, the golf outing, and the various ceremonies, the close of the weekend meant relief from four consecutive 15-hour days, but represented the start of organizing next year’s event.

Zack Vreeland from Baseballism summed up the feeling of many baseball-oriented stores.

“The crowd was smaller than in other years, but just as enthusiastic. We didn’t expect a huge weekend and had prepared ourselves accordingly.”

This was accented by Ron Brown, who has been operating the Factory Store Outlet at doubleday for 33 years.

“It’s the names that makes the difference and determines the volume of inventory we order. But we’re not worried because all those extra items we’ll sell in the coming year.”

None of the operators interviewed expressed any concern that lower numbers represented a general downturn in baseball business.

The store best able to assess the spirits of the crowd was, of course, the Cooperstown Beverage Exchange. Clara Marra, general manager of the beverage exchange for the last eight years, noted that both this year’s “Induction ale” and the “Captain’s ale”— originally brewed by The Cooperstown Brewing Company in connection with derek Jeter’s induction—sold well, although a mark off last year’s total sales.

“Quite apart from the issue of size, I can only accent that this year’s attendees were among the most personable and respectful.” Marra said.

among the restaurants, Jenn Eckler, operator of the Cooperstown diner, confirmed that the small 30-seat diner had a solid weekend.

“The only real difference was that the line out the door wasn’t as long,” Eckler observed. “The seats inside were always filled.”

doubleday Café owner Barbara d’ambrosio agreed.

“We always had a good crowd, and many of our Induction Weekend customers are repeaters. They love the fact that we really haven’t changed in all these years,”

d ambrosio explained.

Her favorite moment this year came when a customer—there with his wife and children—recognized her as his waitress from the time when he was a 12-year-old accompanying his father for the induction festivities.

The one store most directly connected with the well-being of the event was Matt Piam’s pop-up store that dealt in facilitating autographs of Hall of Famers and other baseball notables.

“I’ve been in this business since I was 16 years old, with the last two as owner of HallofFameSignatures.com,” he said, “and I saw this year’s crowd equally as excited as those weekends involving larger crowds. We had some 40 Hall of Famers and notable baseball players as well as six actors from the movie ‘Sandlot,’ and the fans, collectors, and enthusiasts were not disappointed. When inductees are from teams further from New york, we generally see lower attendance, but not lower enthusiasm.”

However, the lack of a substantial crowd at the Induction Ceremony resulted in a lackluster turnover at the concession stand, the income from which historically funds a large portion of the Senior Class activities at the Cooperstown High School.

“We were able to save a lot of the unsold food, and return the unopened soda cartons to Coca Cola,” said dennis Hascup, who organizes the annual event, “and we expect to make up part of the loss at the concession stand the class will operate at the Savannah Banana baseball game in September. But the seniors will definitely have to look to additional fundraisers to make up for the shortfall.”

Other notable victims of the slimmed down attendance were the annual improvised capitalists who turn their driveways and front lawns into cash cows. One could see prices slashed on the “Park Here” signs, down from $30.00 or $40.00 depending on location to $20.00, and then to $10.00 in rapid succession, with lots remaining unfilled. Traditional prime parking locations such as NBT Bank on Pioneer Street and both the First Baptist Church and St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church on Elm Street had only a handful of cars parked in each of their lots Saturday afternoon as the parade stepped off.

Now that Main Street is reopened, the “No Parking Saturday and Sunday” signs are removed and local lawns resume their decorative as opposed to temporary parking space function, the Village of Cooperstown can collectively take a deep sigh and celebrate another successful event.

Volunteers Needed for River Cleanup

COOPERSTOWN

Volunteers are needed for the sixth annual Susquehanna River cleanup in Cooperstown on Sunday, July 29. The event will take place from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cleanup is organized by the Cooperstown Lions Club in partnership with the Rotary Club of Cooperstown, Rotary E-Club of Global Trekkers, the SUNy Oneonta Biological Field Station dive Team and Otsego County Conservation association.

Volunteers are needed on—and in—the river, as well as onshore. Tasks include working with the dive team to pull trash out of the river and load it onto rafts and canoes or kayaks; transferring recovered material from rafts and canoes onto trailers; transporting material to the transfer station; procuring and providing refreshments; and documenting the event. approximately 50 volunteers are needed in all.

In-river volunteers will include float teams and kayak/canoe teams. The float teams will work with the BFS dive Team to pull items out of the river and load them onto rafts, and will guide the rafts through the river to exit points for unloading. Members of the float teams will be provided with gloves and can borrow a personal flotation device if they don’t have their own. Kayak/canoe teams will help collect and transport smaller debris, and will support float and dive team members.

Volunteers are also needed on land at exit points to help load debris from rafts and watercraft onto trailers for transportation to the transfer station.

Interested people can sign up online at https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pLjw3kFUk2QeXqZBp6gQi_Qaa2uOGmeBshBMFwjwJU/edit?usp=sharing or contact Marcie Foster via e-mail at fostermarcie@hotmail.com.

VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM

The Violence Intervention Program at Opportunities for Otsego offers support to victims, survivors and families impacted by violent crime such as domestic violence, sexual assault, physical assault, elder abuse, stalking, hate crimes, motor vehicle assault and homicide.

The Violence Intervention Program offers assistance in accessing crime-related supports and resources.

Counseling Advocacy

Cherry Valley Woman Has Standing ‘date’ with Baseball Legend Smith

By TaRa BaRNWELL CHERRy VaLLEy

Ozzie Smith has a true fan here in Otsego County.

“I get so excited every year that I get Ozzie Smith’s signature,” Madisyn Reyome said.

Reyome and her mother, Nicole Vanderwerker, live in Cherry Valley. Madisyn graduated from Cherry ValleySpringfield Central School in 2022. Vanderwerker is a mortgage closer at Farm Credit East.

“In 2010, I wanted to see what the induction was all about. I’ve lived here all of my life and I never actually went to the induction,” Reyome said. “Each year we are in line with die-hard Ozzie Smith fans. The first time I got his signature was in 2010. I was 6 years old then, in kindergarten.”

“I just started chatting with him and I’ve had my picture taken with him every year since, except for two years during COVId,” she said. “In 2013, I had just broken

my wrist and he remembered me and asked, ‘what happened?!’”

Her mother added that it’s always fun to be in line with Ozzie fans.

“The camaraderie is fantastic. People are in such awe of these players,” Vanderwerker said.

“Ozzie asked me what I was going to do with myself after high school. I am studying veterinary technology, to be a vet tech, at SUNy Canton. I live on campus and love it,” Reyome said.

Reyome is 19 years old and Smith is 68, so they should have plenty more years to continue this tradition.

“I’ll be there waiting in line for his signature every year. I have 11 pictures and lots of baseballs that are signed,” Reyome said. Her mother takes the pictures, then prints them out to take to the next year’s signing.

“It’s a great keepsake,” Reyome said. “I have all of the photos in frames on my bookshelf in my bedroom.”

Group Rallies against Genital Cutting

By daRLa M. yOUNGS ONEONTa

Agroup known as the Bloodstained MenTM & Their Friends visited Oneonta on Sunday, July 22 as part of a 13-day New york State protest tour.

Based in davis, California, the group typically travels to more than 60 cities annually, holding protests and educating the public about the rights of all children to keep all parts of their genitals. according to the website, the purpose of these protests is three-fold:

• To warn the american people that circumcision is cruel, worthless and destructive.

• To provide parents with information and resources to help protect their children from those who would cut their genitals.

• To give a voice to the victims of genital mutilation who have thus far remained silent.

Press Spokesman Harry Guiremand wrote in an e-mail on Tuesday, July 25 that while the road crew on Sunday did not include anyone from Otsego County, a family from Tompkins County joined them in Oneonta.

When asked about the brief New york State Police presence during the protest, Guiremand said the police interaction was brief and cordial.

“We told them what we were doing and how long we’d be there, and we gave them info cards,” he said.

The New york State Circumcision Crisis Protests began on Friday, July 21 in Brooklyn and will end on Wednesday, august 2 in Flushing. Points in between include Binghamton, Buffalo, Rochester, albany and Syracuse.

Bloodstained Men & Their Friends is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to giving victims of genital cutting a voice and to educating americans about the harms of infant circumcision and the importance of the foreskin.

a recent press release reads: “Our bloodstained suit serves as an arresting visual reminder that circumcision affects its victims for life. When a baby boy is circumcised, so is the man he will become.”

The red bloodstain on the group’s “bloodstained suit” crotch symbolizes “the wound that american doctors inflicted on our genitals when we were too young to defend ourselves.”

“We received a very positive reaction from the motorists in Oneonta,” Guiremand said.

To learn more, visit: http://www.bloodstainedmen.com or https://www.facebook. com/BloodstainedMenTheirFriends.

Hartwick Fire Department Announces Field Day

HaRTWICK—Hartwick Field day will return to Wells avenue on Saturday, august 12. The tractor pull is scheduled for 9 a.m. a cornhole tournament begins at 1 p.m., with check-ins starting at noon. Cornhole registration is available via the american Cornhole association app or by messaging the Hartwick Fire department on Facebook; entry to the tournament is $25.00 for individuals or $50.00 for teams. Prizes have been donated by local businesses and will be announced. Live music, with The Barnyard Saints headlining, begins at 7 p.m. There will be food and vendors all day, and fireworks at dusk. The fire department is still looking for vendors. Interested businesses should contact Ron at (607) 293-6135 or Caren at (607) 293-7530.

Springfield To Hold Public HAB Forum

SPRINGFIELd—The Springfield Community Center, at 129 County Highway 29a, will host a public forum on harmful algal blooms in Otsego Lake at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, august 2. It will feature local experts dr. Kiyoko yokota of SUNy Oneonta and dr. Bill Richtsmeier of the Otsego County Watershed Committee.

Photos provided

Madisyn Reyome has been having her photo taken with baseball great Ozzie Smith since 2010.

Madisyn Reyome and Ozzie Smith, together again.

Parade

Continued from page 1

Hall of Fame members who returned this year, as well as the two that were elected into the Hall for the 2023 season.

Leading the parade were Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and Hall of Fame President Josh Rawich, who were followed by 125 members of the Baldwinsville Central High School marching band and color guard.

This was the second time the Baldwinsville band and color guard were selected to participate in the Parade of Legends under the direction of Casey Vanderstouw. They will be performing in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame parade later this year.

While the smaller size of the weekend crowd undoubtedly was a disappointment to some Main Street merchants, it came with the benefit of making the parade itself more personable. Unlike some mammoth parades in big cities, everyone had the opportunity for a fully unobstructed view of this year’s Parade of Legends, and the players and crowd had an opportunity to interact.

As the truck carrying Paul Molitor passed by, a voice from the crowd shouted, “How’d your golf game go?” Followed by three seconds of total silence, until Molitor shouted back, “Well, I broke 100.”

And as another HoF legend passed by, a voice cried, “I got your card!” With a thumbs up and looking to find the eyes of the youngster in the crowd, he yelled back, “That’s great!”

This repartee with the crowd was reproduced often by many of the players and their wives, and represented one of the beneficial side effects of the more modest crowd size.

To the credit of the Baldwinsville band and color guard, they managed to double back and reappear to lead the last two flat beds carrying this year’s inductees.

As Scott Rolen’s flatbed slowly rolled halfway up Chestnut, both Scott and his wife, Nikkie, enjoyed a very animated interaction with the Turbin family from Indiana, where both Scott and Mike Turbin coach local teams, and where the Turbin’s son, Dustin, played on a little league team with Scott Rolen’s son, Finn.

That “in your back yard” feeling epitomized the aura surrounding the parade. And that’s the reason people keep coming back.

Victim

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ously assaulted him with a number of implements and tools over the course of several days. Investigators secured a search warrant and discovered evidence relating to the charges at Rose’s residence. County and town officials have not commented on Rose’s status. According to an obituary, Morton is survived by his wife of nine years, son, parents, sisters and grandmother.

Opera

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stark contrast between light and darkness brings our fragile humanity into sharp relief and reveals the source of so much great art.

For me, seeing Larson’s “Rent” came on the heels of losing a close family member to the AIDS epidemic. Its story felt utterly true, real, and, of course, of the moment.

“La Bohème’s” world was more distant—the garrets and cafes of fin-de-siècle Paris existed as oil paintings and Hollywood scene sets. They were not nearly as accessible to me, and yet when I was finally exposed to a full production of the opera during a college course, I was instantly swept up in the lives of the characters. It was Puccini’s music that made this connection possible. For all the awkwardness of operatic plots, it is the music that brings forth the humanity of the characters. Often it is not so much the arias, but the ensemble pieces that accomplish this feat. In “Rent,” it is “Seasons of Love” and “La Vie Bohème.” In “La Bohème,” it is the opening scene with four friends— Marcello, Rodolfo, Colline and Schaunard—goofing around. It is Mimi and Rodolfo singing together and falling in love at first sight. It is the whole ensemble performance of Act II, including Musetta’s flirtatious and comic tour-de-force, the heartbreaking quartet of Act III, and, finally, the death of Mimi which brings the friends together again in a desperate attempt to save her.

In our celebrity-obsessed, social media-drenched culture, everyone wants to be a star, but the true joy of artistic creation—and life— comes from being part of a cohesive and embracing ensemble. It lifts us up and makes us more than we could ever be on our own. It reminds us that humans thrive on connection and that to be vulnerable, caring, and imperfect is okay. We’re going to mess up, we’re going to fail, and we may never achieve all our individual dreams, but we can still make something beautiful together.

Will Walker is associate professor of history at the Cooperstown Graduate Program in museum studies, SUNY Oneonta.

Hyde Hall

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Delta Aquarids meteor shower, which is predicted to peak on the date of the concert.

Hyde Hall is located at 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. For ease of access, it is recommended that one approach and gain access to Hyde Hall on the east entrance via Glimmerglass Park. Since the concert will start after 6 p.m., there will be no charge to enter the park.

HABs

Continued from page 3

blooms. HABs were confirmed in Canadarago Lake on July 12 and 14, in East Sidney Lake on July 10, and in Bear Gulch Lake, near Worcester in Schoharie County, on July 17.

Induction

Continued from page 3

was unanimously selected by the Contemporary Baseball Era Players Committee, garnering 16 of 16 votes.

Many of McGriff’s contemporaries have wondered how McGriff could have been overlooked for so long.

But here he finally was, beaming, as he was standing next to Hall of Fame President Josh Rawitch while the text on his plaque was read by Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred in front of a relatively sparse smattering of an estimated 5,000 in attendance at the Clark Sports Center.

Fellow 2023 Hall of Fame

inductee Scott Rolen offered his support for McGriff in a recent “New York Times”

story: “As a player, you knew who the Hall of Famers were that you were playing with and against every day in your era. And so not any criticism to the writers or the process of any kind—but I always believed Fred McGriff was a Hall of Famer,” said Rolen, who was elected to the Hall in his seventh year on the BBWAA ballot.

McGriff returned the sentiment in Rolen’s direction during his speech, stating that he was, “Thankful to be going in along with Scott Rolen, who played the game the right way,” while also expressing relief about finally being elected: “When your career is validated…that’s as good as it gets.”

For the record, McGriff hit 493 home runs with 1,550 RBI and a .284 batting average, also compiling 2,490 hits and 1,305 walks during his 19-year career from 1986 to 2004. He hit 30 or more home runs in 10 seasons and is the first player to do so for five different teams, leading the American League with 36 for the Toronto Blue Jays in 1989 and the National League with 35 for the San Diego Padres in 1992. If not for the strike-shortened season of 1994, he would have most probably achieved the 500 home-run-plateau.

A five-time All Star and three-time Silver Slugger Award winner, McGriff reached the promised land as a member of the 1995 World Series champion Atlanta Braves, which he referred to as, “the proudest team moment of my career.”

Rolen made his big-league debut with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1996 and was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 1997.

A seven-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove Award winner, Rolen eclipsed the 30 home-run mark three times and drove in more than 100 runs five times in his 17-year career (19962012), compiling 316 career home runs and 1,287 RBI with a .281 batting average. Rolen was a member of four National League Central Division pennant-winning teams and one World Series (2006) champion with the St. Louis Cardinals from 2002-2006.

Rolen was humbled by the experience of being elected to the Hall of Fame and had a hard time drawing comparisons to the members of the Hall seated behind him during his acceptance speech. He thanked the baseball writers for keeping him on the ballot through the voting process.

“At no point in my life did it ever occur to me that I would be standing on this stage, but I’m glad it occurred to you,” said Rolen.

McGriff and Rolen will be linked eternally as members of the 2023 Hall of Fame Induction Class occurring 21 years to the day when both hit home runs in the same game between McGriff’s Chicago Cubs and Rolen’s Philadelphia Phillies on July 23, 2002.

Class of 2023 Exhibit

Now On Display at HoF

The museum’s 2023 Inductees Exhibit celebrates the careers of Class of 2023 members Fred McGriff and Scott Rolen. The exhibit is open on the museum’s third floor and will remain on display until spring of 2024.

Among the artifacts highlighting the Class of 2023 include:

• The bat used by Fred McGriff to hit his 400th home run on June 2, 2000.

• McGriff’s World Series ring from the Atlanta Braves’ 1995 championship victory over the Cleveland Indians.

• The jersey worn by McGriff in the 1994 All-Star Game as he hit a game-tying, pinch-hit home run in the

NEWS BRIEFS Compiled by Wriley Nelson

Morris Cancer Screening To Visit County Fair

MORRIS—The Cancer Services Program will hold a mobile cancer screening event at the Otsego County Fair on Tuesday, August 1. Mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams, Pap tests and HPV tests are available to eligible uninsured and underinsured individuals 40 and older. Insurance is billed for those with insurance. No-cost colon cancer screening take-home kits are available for uninsured and underinsured people 45 and older or can be sent by mail. Call 1-888-345-0225 to schedule an appointment.

Art Association Announces Fine Arts on the Lawn COOPERSTOWN—The Cooperstown Art Association will hold a Fine Arts on the Lawn sale on Saturday and Sunday, September 2 and 3 on the front porch and lawn of the Village Hall. It features an exhibition of original fine arts and crafts by local and regional artists, as well as music and artist demonstrations. There is a $10.00 fee to exhibit up to five two-dimensional works on the porch and a $110.00 fee for a 10-by-10 foot tent space on the lawn. The CAA will handle sales and setup on the porch, while artists on the lawn will be responsible for their own tent, sales, and setup. The application deadline is Tuesday, August 1. For more information and a complete prospectus, visit www.cooperstownart.com.

Senior Citizen Picnic Scheduled for August 9th

SPRINGFIELD—The Otsego County Council of Senior Citizens will hold a senior citizen picnic at the West Pavilion of Glimmerglass State Park on Wednesday, August 9. Coffee and refreshments will be served at 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch at noon and bingo and other games at 1 p.m. Activities will include a guided stroll, cornhole, card games, music, a guided hike and ice cream. Lunch will be catered by Mel’s at 22. Reservations must be received by July 28; registration forms can be found on the Office for the Aging website. The event costs $8.00. For more information, call OFA at (607) 547-4232.

Fenimore Announces Escher Zoom Symposium

COOPERSTOWN—Fenimore Art Museum announced a free live Zoom symposium on the work of M.C. Escher to be held from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, August 1. “M.C. Escher: Where Art, Math, and the Sciences Converge” will feature seven speakers who will discuss Escher’s inspiration from and influence on work in the arts and sciences. It will culminate in the debut screening of an Escher-inspired dance performance by the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company, recorded in the museum. The choreography is directly inspired by Escher’s artwork and the performance will be accompanied by cellist Ashley Bathgate.

Speakers include Ellen Sinopoli, Chris Soria (New York-based visual artist and muralist), Keith Earle (associate professor and chair of physics, SUNY Albany), Cristian Lenart (professor and chair of mathematics, SUNY Albany) and Andrea Simitch (professor of architecture and Stephen H. Weiss Presidential Fellow, Cornell University). It will be moderated by Michele Famoso, master teacher emeritus at South Colonie Central School District.

Fenimore’s “M.C. Escher: Infinite Variations” exhibit is on view through Monday, September 4. It spans the Dutch artist’s entire career with more than 160 works from the private collection of Paul and Belinda Firos of Athens, Greece.

The virtual program is free, with a suggestion donation of $20.00. To register, visit https://fenimoreartmuseum.org/.

Glimmerglass Planning Shortened 2024 Season

SPRINGFIELD—Glimmerglass Festival announced its programming for the 2024 season on Tuesday, July 18. Mainstage productions will include Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance,” Cavalli’s “La Calisto,” Leoncavallo’s “Pagliacci,” and Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell’s “Elizabeth Cree.” The 2024 festival will also feature the world premiere of the youth opera “Rumpelstiltskin and the Unlovable Children” by Jens Ibsen and Cecelia Raker. Glimmerglass Artistic and General Director Rob Ainsley will curate a new works initiative called Project Pipeline that will give voice to rising artists and show patrons an inside glimpse of the creative process.

“As I thought about the 2024 season, I reflected on the power of theater,” Ainsley said. “On how it creates a window into the lives of others, acts as a mirror for ourselves, and offers and escape from our daily routines. The season intentionally blurs the lines between real and make-believe, exploring the fragile and elusive nature of our identities. With the upcoming fiftieth anniversary of the company in 2025, our 2024 season offers us an opportunity along the way to reflect on our own identity as a company.”

Internationally-known mezzo-soprano Tara Erraught will be the festival’s artist-inresidence for 2024. She will star in “Elizabeth Cree” and provide mentorship for the Young Artists Program.

The 2024 season will be significantly shorter than previous years, running July 22 through August 20. This year’s festival, for instance, began on July 7. A media representative for Glimmerglass Festival explained that the decision to move opening day from early to late July reflected new economic realities and changing demand patterns.

“As a nonprofit organization, the festival has keenly felt the effects of rising inflation and labor costs,” the report said. “This new schedule enables us to reduce expenses while maintaining our staffing levels and the Glimmerglass standard of excellence. The current financial environment is also coupled with changes in consumer behavior. The new schedule has right-sized our number of performance offerings, aligning our schedule with customer demand.”

Subscription renewals for the 2024 season became available on July 19. New subscriptions go on sale on Monday, October 2, and single tickets will be available on Monday, January 22.

Hartwick Names 2023 Hall of Fame Class

ONEONTA—The Hartwick College Athletics Hall of Fame Committee announced the class of 2023 on Friday, July 14. The induction will be held over True Blue Weekend on Saturday, September 23 on Miller Court. Inductees will also be honored at halftime of the field hockey game against Elmira College at noon. This year’s class includes former coach Anna Meyer, the 1996 field hockey team and the 1998 women’s lacrosse team. Meyer was women’s lacrosse coach from 1989-1999 and field hockey coach from 1988-2018. She recorded 123 wins with the former team and 328 with the latter, making her the all-time winningest coach in both programs’ history. She guided both programs to the NCAA Final Four and is one of only a handful of coaches to be named National Coach of the Year in two sports. The 1996 field hockey squad was NCAA runner-up and finished the season with a 20-2 record. They were one of only two Hartwick teams in history to play an NCAA championship game. The 1998 women’s lacrosse team was the only one in program history to reach the NCAA Final Four and its 18-4 record was the best in program history. For a full list of team members, visit https://www.hartwickhawks.com/.

bottom of the ninth.

• Scott Rolen’s Sporting News National League Rookie Player of the Year Award from 1997 – a season in which he batted .283 with 21 home runs and 92 RBI for the Philadelphia Phillies.

• A jersey worn by Rolen during the 2006 World Series as the St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Detroit Tigers.

• Rolen’s 2010 Gold Glove Award – the eighth and final of his 17-year big league career.

Meeting

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Committee is holding to try to engage the town residents and to gather input on topics that the response to our town resident survey indicated were important issues,” Karl said.

The Town of Middlefield’s review of its Comprehensive Plan is an ongoing process with regular monthly meetings on the third Tuesday of each month. Other upcoming workgroup meetings and

topics are:

• September 19: 6 p.m.,

“Otsego Lake Quality and Water Quality”

• October 17: 6 p.m.,

“Senior Citizen Concerns”

• November 21: 6 p.m.,

“Farmland and Open Space Preservation”

Meetings are open to all members of the public and anyone interested in participating is encouraged to attend. More information can be found at the Town of Middlefield website: https:// www.middlefieldny.org

►Friday, July 28

TRAIN RIDES 6:30 p.m.

Ride the Richfield Springs

Scenic Railway. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs

Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315)

717-5969.

TRIBUTE CONCERT

6:30 p.m. “Gold Dust

Woman.” The Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac Collection celebrates the career of Stevie Nicks. Tickets, $25. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta. (607) 431-2080.

FIREPIT FRIDAY

7-10 p.m. Evening of music, bonfire and some beer. This week enjoy rock, reggae and good times with North Side Sound. Brewery Ommegang, 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown. (607) 544-

1800.

HOME GAME 7 p.m.

Oneonta Outlaws vs. The Boonville Lumberjacks, featuring happy hour from 5-6 p.m. Admission, $5/adult.

Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

DINNER & MUSIC 7 p.m.

“That Aged Well!” Relish a night of wine, cheese and period music dedicated to the many ways music was brought into the home. Hyde Hall, 267 Glimmerglass State Park Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5098.

OPENING NIGHT

7:30 p.m. The Glimmerglass Festival presents “Rinaldo” by Handel. Alice Busch Opera Theater, 7300 State Highway 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-

2255.

LATIN DANCE 8-11 p.m.

Full Moon Party/Latin Dance

Night featuring a salsa dance class at 8 and DJ Raphael mixing it up at 9. Origins Café, 558 Beaver Meadow Road,

BUY

Cooperstown. (607) 4372862.

►Saturday, July 29

LAURENS COMMUNITY DAY 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring yard sales throughout the village, Bubblemania at 11 a.m., make your own sundaes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Utica Zoomobile from noon to 2 p.m., fire department and EMS open house, lottery board raffle, more. Laurens Central School, 55 Main Street, Laurens. (607) 441-5431 or e-mail laurensvillageclerk@stny.rr.com

CAR SHOW 10 a.m. 3rd

Annual Upstate Showdown featuring cars, food, music, more. Free admission for spectators. Vehicle entry, $10. Drogen Electric Supply, 244 River Street, Oneonta.

EXHIBITION 11 a.m. to 3

p.m. “Passages: Creatures & Curiosities,” featuring Petey Brown, Ava Fedorov and Helen Quinn. Free. Also open daily by appointment. The Art Garage, 689 Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown. (607) 547-5327.

SPORTS PHOTOS 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Action Photo Clinic. Join exhibition experts on the lawn to practice sports and action photography with smartphone cameras. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. Also held 7/30. (607) 547-1400.

OUTDOOR THEATRE 11 a.m. “Dinosaur Invasion” by Dandelion Stage. Interactive experience where children help save the world from timetraveling dinosaurs. Separate programs scheduled for children ages 3-6, and ages 7-12. Fortin Park, 101 Youngs Rd., Oneonta. Presented by Oneonta World of Learning—to purchase tickets or for more information, Also held 7/30. (607) 353-9503.

PERIOD FARCES Noon & 2 p.m. “A Good Night’s Rest,” presented by The Templeton Players. Mr. Snobbington desperately needs to sleep but the neighbor is making a ruckus after being locked out. What to do but invite them in, if only he will quiet down. What could possibly go wrong? The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown. Also held 7/30. (607) 547-1450.

CRUISE-IN CAR SHOW Noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy spectacular antique car show. Includes 50/50 raffle, vendors, & refreshments. Admission is free. Register your car to show for $10. Windfall Dutch Barn, GPS location is 2009 Clinton Road, Fort Plain. (607) 263-5230 or visit windfalldutchbarn.com

TRAIN ROBBERY Noon. Action-packed ride featuring shootouts, period costumes and fun for the whole family. Tickets, $25/adult. Reservations required. CooperstownCharlotte Valley Railroad, departing from 136 County Route 166, Milford. (607) 432-2429.

TRAIN RIDES 1 p.m. Nature discovery and appreciation on the “Mink Creek Local” over railway bridges and into the “Great Cedar Swamp.” Learn the history of the local railway built in 1868. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 7175969.

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

HOME GAME 7 p.m.

Oneonta Outlaws vs. the Watertown Rapids, featuring happy hour from 5-6 p.m. Admission, $5/adult. Damaschke Field, 15 James Georgeson Avenue, Oneonta. (607) 432-6326 or visit oneontaoutlaws.com

CABARET 7-9 p.m. “Musical Matrimony” features local artists performing selections from musical theater’s finest

songs about love, romance, marriage and everything in between. Tickets, $10 at the door. Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street, Oneonta.

►Sunday, July 30

SUMMER SUNDAY PRE-

SENTATION 1-3 p.m.

“Oneonta’s Mayors” with Mark Simonson. Free and open to the public. Bring own folding law chair; handicap accessible. Swart-Wilcox House Museum, 24 Wilcox Avenue, Oneonta. Visit swartwilcoxhouse.wordpress.com

TRAIN RIDES 3 p.m. Sunday Rambles. Tickets, $20/adult. Richfield Springs Scenic Railway, 168 McKoons Road, Richfield Springs. (315) 717-5969.

►Monday, July 31

EXERCISE CLASS 10 a.m. Get moving in Low-Impact Exercise Class. Designed for seniors but all are welcome. Held each Monday & Thursday in July. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309.

REPTILES Noon. VIA Aquarium visit. Learn about and maybe touch sea creatures. Free, all ages. Worcester-Schenevus Library, 170 Main Street, Worcester. (607) 397-7309.

FOOD SERVICE Noon to 1 p.m. Children through age 18 receive free food. Activities include a bookmobile, games, more. Monday through Friday in July and August. Neahwa Park, Oneonta. (607) 4320061.

CONCERT 5:30 p.m. The Ten Gallon Matt performs in the Pathfinder Village Summer Concert Series. Repertoire of classic and outlaw country favorites. Free, concessions available for purchase. Pavilion, Pathfinder Village, 3 Chenango Road, Edmeston. (607) 965-8377.

JAZZ CONCERT 7 p.m.

Better Together. Jazz. Free; rain or shine. Meadow Links Golf Pavilion, 476 County Road 27, Richfield Springs.

►tueSday, aug. 1

COMMUNITY HIKE 9:45 a.m. Hike with the Adirondack Mountain Club. Bring appropriate equipment, water, and be aware of level of fitness.

This week’s hike will be at Glenwood Creek, Oneonta. Contact hike leader Tracey Verma at (607) 353-9620.

KIDS’ ART CLASS 3 p.m.

Children aged pre-K through 12 are invited to stop in and work on an arts and crafts project. Held 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 West Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 8580230.

TEEN PAINTING CLASS 4-6 p.m. “Fundamental Painting Elements and Techniques.” Sign up for one week or all eight sessions. Held Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 17. Some drawing experience suggested. Part of the Summer Arts Program for Teens. Community Arts Network of Oneonta, Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Avenue, Oneonta. Pre-register at canoneonta.org/summerarts-program-teens.

FIGURE DRAWING

5-7 p.m. Adults aged 18+ are invited to draw from life in fun, drop-in sessions. Newspaper and charcoal are provided. No instruction. Cost, $10. Headwaters Arts Center, 66 Main Street, Stamford. (607) 214-6040.

MONTHLY MEET & GREET 5:30 p.m. Welcome Home Cooperstown Community Meet and Greet. Welcome new residents to the area and help them make connections with established residents and institutions.

Village Hall, 22 Main Street, Cooperstown.

ART WORKSHOP 5:307:30 p.m. Make beautiful designs on stoneware. Registration required. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

ART SYMPOSIUM

6-9 p.m. Learn about the works of M.C. Escher and how he was influenced by (and now influences) different disciplines across science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Presented via Zoom by the Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.

ART COLLECTIVE 6 p.m.

Teens and adults are invited for this quiet time to work on art with likeminded company. Held 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Richfield Springs Public Library, 102 West Main Street, Richfield Springs. (315) 858-0230.

YOGA 6:15-7 p.m. “Yoga on the Beach.” Bring a mat or a towel. Glimmerglass State Park, 1527 County Road 31, Cooperstown. (607) 5478662.

LAKEFRONT CONCERT

6:30 p.m. Grateful Upstate Toodeloo. Some of the finest CNY musicians paying tribute to the Grateful Dead. Historic Bandstand, Lake Front Park, Cooperstown. office@cooperstownchamber.org.

COMMUNITY CONVERSA -

TIONS 8-9 a.m. Networking group discusses Oneonta’s past, present and future. No agenda, just informal, nonpartisan conversation. All welcome. Held each Tuesday at Green Earth Health Market, 4 Market Street, Oneonta.

►WedneSday, aug. 2

CHARACTER TOUR Noon. Explore the M.C. Escher exhibit with the character himself. Included with museum admission. Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.

ART CLASS 1-3 p.m.

“Learn to Paint With Maria.”

Beginner-friendly class to learn painting techniques. Registration required. Springfield Library, 129 County Road 29A, Springfield Center. (315) 858-5802.

FARMERS’ MARKET

4-6:30 p.m. Fresh produce and handmade goods from local farmers and makers. Tryon Inn & Backdoor Bar, 124 Main Street, Cherry Valley. ART WORKSHOP 5:307:30 p.m. Painting Stoneware. Registration required. Class fee, $10/person. Huntington Memorial Library, 62 Chestnut Street, Oneonta. (607) 432-1980.

SUNSET SANGRIA

6-9 p.m. Live music and sangria specials in the vineyard. Pail Shop Vineyards, 124 Goose Street, Fly Creek.

FIGURE THIS 6-9 p.m. Practice drawing from life in the studio with nude models and professional artist Jonathan Pincus on hand to answer questions. $18/session (cash). Cooperstown Art Association. (607) 547-9777.

BENEFIT CONCERT 6:308 p.m. Fetish Lane. Folk rock in support of the restoration of the Major’s Inn. Admission by free-will offering. Lawn chairs recommended. Major’s Inn, 104 Marion Avenue, Gilbertsville. (607) 783-2967.

CONCERT 7 p.m. The Oldies Show Band. Music from the 1950s-1970s. Free; rain or shine. Part of the Richfield Concert in the Park series. Spring Park, State Route 20, Richfield Springs.

THEATRE 7-9 p.m. Experience a new take on Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” in which a motley crew of aeronauts crash land on a magical island with a vengeful wizard. Tickets, $18/adult. Glimmer Globe Theatre, Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown. (607) 547-1400.

CONCERT IN THE PARK

full bath on the first floor. Hardwood floors in the living room and downstairs bedrooms. 2nd floor has a large bedroom and plenty of room to add a 2nd bath. Beautiful bluestone wall leads to 1-car garage plus patio and deck on the back. Located within walking distance to SUNY Oneonta and Oneonta Middle/High School.

$199,000 MLS#R1483476

7 p.m. The Oldies Show Band. Wonderful memories from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Free; rain or shine. Part of the Richfield Springs summer series. Spring Park, U.S. Route 20. (315) 858-0964.