Cooperstown Observed by Sam Goodyear

Why Cooperstown? (cont’d)

A few weeks ago, we noted in this column some of the reasons why we value life in Cooperstown.

Here are some more of the whys:

—Because pedestrians are apt to give a nod of thanks when drivers stop at crosswalks. That’s why.

—Because of the singularly fine school system here. That’s why.

–Because of the annual celebratory community dinner on Main Street, between Fair and River streets, in September. That’s why.

—Because of three spots on the radio dial broadcasting National Public Radio, providing news and music. That’s why.

—Because of the magnificent Clark Sports Center, providing multiple opportunities for the health of body and mind. That’s why.

—Because of the Cooperstown Food Pantry at the Presbyterian Church, serving those in need. That’s why.

—Because of the magic vapors rising from enchanted Lake Otsego. That’s why.

—Because of the Annual Winter Carnival, which we have just experienced and enjoyed. That’s why.

—Because of Write Out Loud, a literary evening at Fenimore Art Museum featuring the work of the poets and essayists among us. That’s why.

—Because Otsego 2000 is committed to the health and well-being of the land and the people and the resources of our region. That’s why.

—Because of the enticing aromas of roasting coffee and baking donuts and lunches and dinners in the making, filling the senses up and down Main Street. That’s why.

—Because spring here is spring, summer is summer, autumn is autumn and winter is winter. (And we don’t mean maybe.) That’s why.

Sam Goodyear was born in Cooperstown and, because of his father’s profession in the Foreign Service, grew up all over the world and continued that pattern throughout his adult life until two years ago, when he returned to where he was born. It took him only 80 years to do so.