In recent years residents and visitors alike have come to enjoy Christmas in Cooperstown because of the extensive decorations created by the staff of the Clark Foundation's Fernleigh Greenhouse. News earlier this week of a change in leadership at the greenhouse led to some concerns about the future of the decorating effort, but those fears are unfounded.

Jane Clark, President of the Clark Foundation, said Wednesday morning that she is pleased to announce that Mike Bouton will be assume the managerial responsibilities of the Fernleigh Greenhouse.

Bouton is replacing Gary Barnum, who said he enjoyed his time at the greenhouse.

"Jane Clark is the best patron one could possibly imagine," said Barnum. "It has truly been a wonderful and most valuable experience."

"With the holidays coming up," said Clark, "Mike and his staff are working hard so that Cooperstown will look as beautiful and spectacular as it has ever looked."

Mike Bouton has been the general manager of the Greenhouse for eight years.

"I'm looking forward to continuing the programs that have been fostered by the Clark Foundation for years," Bouton said. "We're in the middle of fall cleanup and the bulb program right now, but we're looking forward to wrapping that up so we can shift our focus to the Christmas program. The Chamber of Commerce Tours and the wreath making class, which was booked almost immediately this morning as soon as we opened enrollment, are still on. We have an experienced and talented crew. The quality everyone has come to expect will continue."