Published: December 23, 2009 09:27 am      

In These Otsego Hills: A 2009 Cooperstown Christmas Carol

...with apologies to ``O Little Town of Bethlehem’’

O little village of Cooperstown Where zebra mussels hang around Threatening the intake From the lake Where the water supply is found.

O little village of Cooperstown Where baseball games abound With a brand new franchise Where beer one buys On Doubleday Field will be found.

O little village of Cooperstown Where fewer children are found.

The school’s enrollment drops But the taxes are still tops Even with one less principal around.

O little village of Cooperstown Where legends of baseball are bound With a classic game From the Hall of Fame When fans gathered from all around.

O little village of Cooperstown Where grammar skills are down.

The internet’s to blame; It’s not the school’s shame That capitalization is no where around.

O little village of Cooperstown With another museum to be found Featuring instruments with strings Among other things To delight visitors with musical sound.

O little village of Cooperstown With the police force all around Which was to be cut back As money we all lack Except the public’s objection was sound.

O little village of Cooperstown Where tourists drive up and down With frowning faces Looking for parking spaces Which behind the fire hall will be found.

O little village of Cooperstown Blessed with a carol each year Detailing events With poetic sense Of the place we hold most dear.

With best wishes for a joyous holiday season And a happy and healthy new year.

PLEASE NOTE: Comments may be made by mail at 105 Pioneer Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326, by phone at 547-8124 or e-mail at cellsworth1@stny.rr.com