The Richfield Springs Area Chamber of Commerce announces their 2025 Concerts In Spring Park Schedule.

We would appreciate it if you could please put our complete schedule in tour publication, as well as each individual concert in your weekly calendar of events listing each week. Thank You! 

Music in Spring Park was a daily occurance in our local Richfield Springs History, when the big hotels, sulfer springs & baths were popular in the late 1800's and early 1900's. 

Continuing this Tradition, the Chamber presents a variety of musical groups, open to the public, rain or shine, on Wednenday evenings from 7-8:30, the last week of June thru the the end of August, in the Historic Bandstand or the covered pavillion. For your convenience, you may wish to bring a folding chair or a blanket as well as your dancing shoes. 

Spring Park is located on Main Street (US Route 20) in the Village of Richfield Springs, and there is plenty of parking in the park or on the street. 

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Summer Nights in Cooperstown Get Unexpectedly Extraordinary

Jazz musicians sync live with classic cartoons, forgotten masterpieces emerge from library archives, and world-class artists transform intimate venues into something magical.

[COOPERSTOWN, NY - June 1, 2025] This isn't your typical summer concert series. When jazz artists perform live soundtracks to animated films, matching every pratfall and punchline in real time, or when musicians uncover lost compositions from library archives, you know you're in for something completely different.

The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival's 27th season delivers five performances this July and August that redefine what a night out can be - whether you're a music aficionado or someone who simply stumbled upon an intriguing experience.

But the season's most unexpectedly entertaining evening may belong to The Queen's Cartoonists, who have mastered the art of live soundtrack performance. The six-piece band synchronizes their music perfectly with animated films projected on stage, recreating original soundtracks note-for-note while adding their own compositions to modern pieces. Think of it as a live concert, comedy show, and movie night rolled into one experience that celebrates both jazz and animation as uniquely American art forms.

The Festival opens July 21 with the legendary American String Quartet with flutist Linda Chesis and violist Daniel Avshalomov performing Brahms’ viola quintet, Mozart’s String Quartet No. 22 in B-flat major, K. 589, and a colorful Mahler-esque suite inspired by Basque folk traditions. Baroque violinist Rachell Ellen Wong returns on August 4 with her ensemble Twelfth Night for a program that includes Tartini's technically demanding "Devil's Trill," a piece so challenging it was once rumored to be inspired by a dream about the devil himself playing violin.

The Caroga Arts Ensemble returns to Cooperstown on August 13, featuring KASA Quartet, flutist Linda Chesis, and clarinetists Graeme Steele Johnson and Bixby Kennedy. These local legends perform works by Debussy, Ravel, and the recently rediscovered Charles Martin Loeffler Octet, a kaleidoscopic masterpiece nearly lost to history. The season concludes August 21 with Trinidad-born trumpeter Etienne Charles, whose "Creole Soul" performance draws musical connections across the African diaspora with fiery original compositions rooted in Caribbean rhythms.

"This season represents the heart of what the Festival always strives to create - extraordinary music in intimate settings that brings our community together in shared moments of musical discovery," says Linda Chesis, the Festival's founder and Artistic Director. "We're proud to offer experiences that might otherwise only be found in major metropolitan centers. 

All performances begin at 7 PM and take place in historic venues across Cooperstown, including the scenic Fenimore Farm and Country Village and Christ Episcopal Church, the same church where author James Fenimore Cooper once worshipped.

Tickets are $30 for adults, $15 for students and children, available at cooperstownmusicfest.org or by calling 800-316-8559.

Performance Schedule:

• July 21: American String Quartet with Linda Chesis and Daniel Avshalomov

• July 30: The Queen's Cartoonists

• August 4: Twelfth Night: Grand Tour

• August 13: Caroga Arts Ensemble: Forgotten Sounds

• August 21: Etienne Charles: Creole Soul

About the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival:

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 over 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. Concerts are held in venues across Cooperstown, including the grand Otesaga Hotel, Fenimore Farm and Country Village, and Christ Episcopal Church.

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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Cooperstown Concerts Celebrates an Outstanding 2024-2025 Season: Great Musical Performances and New Experiences

2025-2026 Season Opens in September

[COOPERSTOWN, New York] June 2, 2025 –  Cooperstown Concerts wrapped up its 55th season on a high note in May, completing a vibrant and diverse lineup of eight performances that drew over 1,350 people from across the region. The season featured sold-out concerts, outstanding reviews from attendees, new food, drink, and lodging offers, and strong support from donors and sponsors. The performances were held across world-class venues, including The Otesaga Resort Hotel and the newly added Fenimore Art Museum Theater and Fenimore Farm & Country Village. The 2025-2026 season opens in September. Cooperstown Concerts, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization formerly known as the Cooperstown Concert Series, is committed to providing outstanding music close to home in upstate and central New York for people who want to come together to enjoy and explore music. The 2024-2025 season showcased an exciting range of musical genres – from West African folk and hard-driving bluegrass to indie rock, Latin dance, progressive chamber music, and roots reggae – captivating audiences, providing musical diversity, and supporting community engagement. The season featured eight shows from October to March. It opened with the world-renowned kora virtuoso Yacouba Sissoko, whose melodies and storytelling offered a profound introduction to West African musical traditions. The season concluded in May with an evening that captured the spirit of celebration and community. The sold-out island-themed party, including Caribbean-inspired food and drinks and a large dance floor, featured music by The Big Takeover – a roots reggae and Jamaican pop band with infectious rhythms and feel-good vibes.  Great Shows Enhanced by New Experiences  Beyond the great performances, Cooperstown Concerts offered a range of exciting new features to elevate the audience experience. In partnership with The Otesaga Resort Hotel, each show at the hotel included a concert Bar & Lounge where concertgoers could gather with friends and enjoy a relaxed social setting. Concertgoers also had access to exclusive discounted overnight rates at several local hotels/inns, turning an evening of music into an overnight escape. Additional features included free Latin dance lessons, free pre-show entertainment, and a VIP experience with a pre-show acoustic performance. The grand finale of the season took things up a notch with an island-inspired celebration, featuring a festive buffet and tropical cocktails from Mel’s at 22, plus a spacious dance floor. “This season was a turning point for Cooperstown Concerts, and we greatly appreciate every person who came to a show, and every sponsor, donor, and partner who supported us,” said Randy Smith, President, Cooperstown Concerts.  “In the 2024-2025 season, Cooperstown Concerts expanded its venues, reached new audiences, presented a wide range of highly acclaimed performers, offered new experiences, and consistently sold-out shows – demonstrating the power of live music and great experiences to help bring people together.  “We want every Cooperstown Concerts event to be more than a show,” Smith added. “It’s about creating a memorable night out – from incredible artists and stunning venues to connecting with friends, meeting new people, enjoying new music, dancing, and even a place to stay. The feedback has been fantastic and we’re looking forward to building on these experiences next season.” 2025-2026 Season Opens in September As Cooperstown Concerts looks to the 2025-2026 season, the organization is excited to continue to bring world-class live music to beautiful local venues in the region, fostering a vibrant arts scene that supports connections and community. The 2025-2026 season will launch in September 2025. Additional season details will be announced in August. For more information about Cooperstown Concerts and upcoming events, visit www.cooperstownconcerts.org, and join the mailing list for the latest news and updates To donate to Cooperstown Concerts, a nonprofit organization, go to https://cooperstownconcerts.org/donate/ For volunteer opportunities with Cooperstown Concerts, please contact info@cooperstownconcerts.org Check out our website for photos and more information about our 2024-2025 season! About Cooperstown Concerts Founded 55 years ago, Cooperstown Concerts has served as a home for live music - dedicated to bringing an eclectic mix of world-class live music to our community. The 2025-2026 season will continue this tradition of excellence, featuring a diverse lineup that invites audiences to explore new sounds, discover emerging artists, and enjoy timeless favorites. With a commitment to diversity in programming and a deep connection to its audience, Cooperstown Concerts offers an opportunity for people to come together, experience and engage with high-quality music from around the globe and enjoy a great performance close to home. Cooperstown Concerts is an independent, all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) not for profit organization.

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Transitions celebrates 20 graduates forging independent paths to success

 

MAYFIELD - Twenty determined young adults with autism and learning differences walked across the graduation stage earlier this month, marking a powerful testament to what’s possible with the right support. Transitions students proudly graduated from SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College, SUNY Cobleskill, and University at Albany, achieving what many once believed was out of reach.

 

Among them was Haydn Elmore, who first connected with Transitions during a weekend visit in high school. That spark led him to the full-year college track program at Transitions — and this May, Elmore earned his bachelor’s degree from the University at Albany. During his time at Transitions, he developed the skills to thrive - managing routines, living independently, working part-time, and completing internships in photography and communications — all while building lasting relationships and growing in confidence.

 

Transitions is a nationally recognized post-secondary program that supports teens and young adults with learning differences in achieving success in college, employment, and independent living.

 

Through its College Track, Transitions offers individualized support that helps students navigate college systems, build social and academic skills, communicate effectively, and meet personal and professional goals. Participants can enroll in partner schools such as SUNY Fulton-Montgomery Community College, SUNY Cobleskill, and the University at Albany to earn microcredentials, associate’s, or bachelor’s degrees — or follow a customized educational plan.

 

For students focused on joining the workforce directly, the Career Track provides technical training, real-world experience, and microcredentials in targeted fields. Internships and job placements give participants a strong foundation to launch meaningful careers.

 

Michael, a 2025 Career Track graduate, is pursuing his dream in the Disney College Program. After completing training and securing a full-time position, he is now thriving — sharing an apartment with a roommate, maintaining a circle of close friends, and excelling in a job he loves. His supervisor has praised his dedication and growth, a powerful example of how the right support can open doors and build futures.

 

Elmore and Michael are just two of the many graduates who once doubted whether independent living, college, or a fulfilling career were within reach. Through Transitions, they have overcome barriers and are now thriving.

 

“Watching these students cross the stage is incredibly moving — each one has overcome unique challenges and grown into a confident, capable young adult ready to take on the world,” said Penny Rivenburg, Division Director of Transitions. “Their success is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when the right supports are in place. We are so proud of our graduates and honored to be part of their journey.”

 

Thanks to a Mohawk Valley Empowers grant, Transitions will expand access to both College and Career Track programs starting this summer and fall, empowering even more young adults to pursue personalized paths to success.

For more information, visit TransitionsUSA.org or call 518-775-5384.

 

About Transitions:

Transitions is a pioneering post-secondary program designed to provide comprehensive support and guidance to young adults with autism and other neurodivergent conditions as they navigate through college, careers, and independent living. With campuses located in Mayfield, SUNY-FMCC, SUNY Cobleskill, and Albany, NY, Transitions offers a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters personal growth, academic achievement, and the development of essential life skills. Through individualized programs, specialized mentoring, and a strong network of community partnerships, Transitions empowers neurodivergent individuals to overcome challenges, unlock their full potential, and thrive in their pursuit of higher education, meaningful careers, and fulfilling lives. For more information about Transitions visit www.transitionsusa.org. 

Multi-Count Indictment in Child Sexual Abuse Case

DELHI  – Delaware County District Attorney, Shawn J. Smith, announced today that the Delaware County Grand Jury returned an eight-count indictment against Mario A. Sierra, 20, of East Meredith, New York on May 22. 

Count One alleges Rape in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 14, 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the City of Oneonta, County of Otsego.

Count Two alleges Criminal Sexual Act in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 14, 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in oral sexual conduct with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the City of Oneonta, County of Otsego.

Count Three alleges Rape in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the City of Oneonta, County of Otsego.

Count Four alleges Rape in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the Town of Meredith, County of Delaware. 

Count Five alleges Criminal Sexual Act in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in oral sexual conduct with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the Town of Meredith, County of Delaware. 

Count Six alleges Rape in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the Town of Meredith, County of Delaware.

Count Seven alleges Rape in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the Town of Meredith, County of Delaware.

Count Eight alleges Rape in the 2nd Degree, a Class D Felony. It is alleged that Sierra, on or about July 2024, being eighteen (18) years old or more, did engage in sexual intercourse with a person less than fifteen (15) years old, in the Town of Meredith, County of Delaware.  

As with all cases involving minors, the identity of the victim is being withheld per office policy.

Sierra appeared in the Delaware County Court on May 23, 2025, for the purpose of an arraignment. Acting County Court Judge, Gary A. Rosa set bail in the amount of $25,000 cash, $50,000 bond or $100,000 partially secured bond. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility, in lieu of bail.

District Attorney Shawn Smith commends Investigator Cody Tromblee of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, and Detective Amanda Catapano from the Oneonta City Police, for their thorough investigation into this serious case. DA Smith also thanks the victim advocates at Safe Against Violence for making sure the victims received appropriate support.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Richard D. Northrup Jr. presented the case to the Grand Jury.

Indictments and Criminal Complaints are allegations.  All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

Shawn J. Smith 

District Attorney 

Delaware County 

 

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Stamford Man Arrested for Alleged DWI Following Accident

HARPERSFIELD — Sheriff Craig S. DuMond announced the arrest of a Stamford, NY resident for driving while intoxicated following a motor vehicle accident.

On Saturday Morning, May 17th, 2025, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a one car motor vehicle accident on State Highway 23 in the Town of Harpersfield. Deputies arrived on scene and observed that the vehicle had left the roadway and entered into the roadside ditch. Deputies interviewed the driver, identified as 42-year-old Ryan Darran, of Stamford.

Upon completion of the investigation, Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged Darran with Driving While Intoxicated with a BAC of 0.08% of 1% or more and Driving While Intoxicated, both Unclassified Misdemeanors. Darran was also issued Traffic Summonses for Moving from Lane Unsafely, Consumption of Alcohol in Motor Vehicle, and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Motor Vehicle Accident, all violations of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law. 

Darran was released on appearance tickets, directing him to return to the Town of Harpersfield Court at a later date.

 

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Otsego-Schoharie and Delaware Masonic Charities Corporation Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients

SCHENEVUS — The Otsego-Schoharie and Delaware Masonic Charities Corporation proudly awarded five $750 Scholarship Assistance Grants to outstanding high school seniors at the annual Central Leatherstocking Masonic District Awards Night, held on May 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Schenevus Masonic Temple in Schenevus, New York.

These annual scholarships recognize graduating seniors who have demonstrated academic achievement, strong character, and community engagement. Applications were reviewed through a blind selection process, and recipients were chosen based on a combination of scholarship, personal aspirations, and—where provided—financial need. A Masonic connection is not required to apply, but applications must be endorsed by a local Lodge.

This year’s recipients, listed alphabetically by last name, along with their sponsoring Lodges, are:

• Jordan Bender – Delaware Academy Central School District at Delhi
  Sponsored by: Delaware River Lodge No. 439

• Dorothy Bull – Downsville Central School District
  Sponsored by: Delaware River Lodge No. 439

• Libby Cox – Laurens Central School District
  Sponsored by: Laurens Lodge No. 548

• William Kulaski – Delaware Academy Central School District at Delhi
  Sponsored by: Delaware River Lodge No. 439

• Josie Scanlon – Oneonta City School District
  Sponsored by: Oneonta Lodge No. 466

Each student will receive a $750 scholarship grant. The awards ceremony recognized the recipients in the presence of Lodge members, community leaders, and family supporters.

“These grants reflect our Masonic values of education, integrity, and service to community,” said Nathan Tweedie, President of the Charities Corporation and Chair of the Scholarship Committee. “We are proud to assist these deserving students as they take the next step in their academic and professional journeys.”

The Otsego-Schoharie and Delaware Masonic Charities Corporation continues its longstanding tradition of supporting youth development through this vital scholarship program and other charitable efforts across the region.

 

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DCMO BOCES Students Compete in State Conservation Competition

COBLESKILL – Students from both DCMO BOCES campuses traveled to SUNY Cobleskill on May 15 to participate in the New York State Conservation Contest, an annual event designed to bring together high school students from BOCES Conservation and Heavy Equipment programs from across the state. Events took SUNY Cobleskill campus, with students rotating between contest stations that focused on different skills such as equipment operation, woodsmen events, and natural resource identification. The students were accompanied by Harrold Campus Principal Roula Ragusa, SkillsUSA advisor Nanette LaTourette, and Conservation instructors from both campuses, including Zack Whittaker, Amanda Larson and Ken Larson from Harrold Campus and Braeden Williams, Jacob Sweet and Tim Crumb from Pole Campus. DCMO BOCES students did quite well in the competition, winning or placing in many of them. Here’s a list of those who placed, by campus:

ALAN D. POLE CAMPUS: 

Fire Building: 1st Place - Kelcie Tefft (Oxford) & Pasley French (Sherburne)

Female Pulp Throw: 4th Place - Kelcie Tefft (Oxford)

Male Cross Cut: 1st Place - Wyatt Meade (UV) & Tanner Sullivan (UV) 

Axe Throw: 2nd Place - Duncan McNicol (Norwich) 

Tree Felling: 4th Place - Tanner Sullivan (UV) place all over the

Tree Climbing: 1st Place -Tanner Sullivan (UV) , 4th Place Dominick Howe (Oxford) 

Skid Steer Competition: 5th Place - Brian Mills (Greene) & David Palmer (OV) 

Dozer Log Roll: 1st Place - Riley Jones (Sherburne)

Robert W. Harrold CAMPUS:

Dozer Log Roll: Xander Tyrell- Senior (Franklin), 3rd Place

Mini Excavator: Connor Borowski- Senior (BG), 1st Place

Skid Steer Team: Derek Jordan- Junior (Unatego), Tyler King- Junior (Unatego), 2nd Place

Maple ID & Knowledge- Olivir Hilts- Junior (BG),1st Place; Hailey Brandenburg- Junior (Delhi), 2nd Place; Kevin Conklin- Senior (Hancock), 3rd Place; Landon Ruling- Senior (Sidney), 4th Place 

Tree Felling- Kevin Conklin- Senior (Hancock), 2nd Place

Axe Throw- Kaedin VanEchaute- Junior (Otsego Christian Academy-OCA), 1st Place

2-Man Peavy Log Roll- Abraham George- Senior (Franklin) & Trevor Thayer- Senior (Unatego), 3rd Place

Jack & Jill 2- Person Log Roll- Alivia Plows- Junior (GMU) & Bryce Seymour- Junior (Unatego)- 3rd Place; Hailey Brandenburg- Junior (Delhi) & Graham Picinich- Senior (Walton)- 4th Place

Bow Saw- Kevin Conklin- Senior (Hancock), 1st Place; Jacob Lyle- Senior (BG), 3rd Place

Jack & Jill 2-Person Crosscut- Hailey Brandenburg- Junior (Delhi) & Olivir Hilts- Junior (BG), 2nd Place; Alvia Plows- Junior (GMU) & Tyler King- Junior (Unatego), 4th Place

Female Pulp Throw- Hailey Brandenburg- Junior (Delhi), 2nd Place

DCMO BOCES is a regional provider of educational services to students and schools, and operates school campuses in Sidney Center and Norwich. To learn more about Conservation & Heavy Equipment and the other CTE programs at DCMO BOCES, visit the website at www.dcmoboces.com.

 

 

DCMO BOCES Conservation and Heavy Equipment Operation students from Robert W. Harrold Campus pose in Cobleskill, where they participated in the annual New York State Conservation Contest.

 

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Yolanda Bush and Coolwater Collective to Play in Walton June 15

WALTON – Music on the Delaware’s final 2024-25 Coffeehouse at the Walton Theatre at 30 Gardiner Place, Walton, will feature area musicians Yolanda Bush, Evan Jagels and Wyatt Ambrose performing as a trio called the Coolwater Collective. The free concert will occur on Sunday, June 15, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the parlor of the theatre. As with all coffeehouse events, drinks and desserts will be available, with donations gratefully accepted.

Yolanda Bush and the Coolwater Collective Trio is a must-see musical ensemble blending Jazz, Blues, and unexpected selections to create an unforgettable musical experience. The trio consists of Yolanda Bush on Voice and Percussion, Evan Jagels on Upright Bass, and Wyatt Ambrose on Guitar.  All three are experienced musicians and performers.

Yolanda has been singing and drumming for over four decades. She is versatile in numerous styles, which include Blues, Jazz, Rock, and R&B. Born in Chicago where she was surrounded by music, she went on to study trumpet and choral music and perform in a wide variety of ensembles. Yolanda is a prolific songwriter and has performed widely as a solo guitarist and singer. She has been influenced by many artists including Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Jimmi Hendrix, and Joni Mitchell.

Evan Jagels is both a passionate educator, currently serving as Lecturer and Artist in Residence at Hartwick College in Oneonta, and a versatile jazz performer, having shared the stage with many notable musicians. He is co-founder of Duo Extempore, and with pianist Nicole Brancato, recently created and presented a musical history of the Walton Theatre as a part of its 110th anniversary celebration. Evan also heads the newly formed Kildeer Trio, which performed a Music on the Delaware coffeehouse concert of improvised experimental jazz in Spring of 2024. Also a member of Kildeer Trio, Wyatt Ambrose is a guitarist, educator, and composer. He is currently Artist in Residence and Adjunct Professor at Hartwick College and works with liberal arts and music students in private lessons, ensembles, and classroom settings teaching jazz, popular music and aural skills. He is often in demand as a backup performer.  

The next series of Coffeehouse at the Theatre events will begin again in September.

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