Craze scoots into vogue
ONEONTA — Gliding down the sidewalk of a quiet street in the city's West End, Lane Potter maneuvers his silver scooter from behind a large shade tree into the glare of a late-afternoon sun.
The 10-year-old from the town of Oneonta is one of a growing number of students at Greater Plains Elementary School who have taken part in the latest scooter craze that has swept from California to the East Coast within the last year.
DMV selling private facts
ALBANY — State lawmakers are talking more and more about the need to protect privacy, but as they talk, New York state is cashing in big by selling personal information.
During the 1999-2000 fiscal year, the state Department of Motor Vehicles made $48 million selling registration, accident, title, inspection and automobile information to private businesses throughout the country.
Town historian, 85, to get national honor
Mary S. Briggs has put Davenport on the map, historically speaking.
For almost 30 years as town historian, she has been brushing off town records, organizing them and finding ways to preserve them for posterity.
On Sunday, Briggs will be recognized for her work and enthusiasm for keeping the past accessible and in the hearts and minds of residents.
Officials: Walls not in danger
SOUTH KORTRIGHT — The century-old stone walls that line state Route 10 in the hamlet of South Kortright are not in danger, according to county and state officials.
Man killed, woman injured in car crash
FULTON — A man was killed and a woman was injured Friday after the Ford Escort they were riding in hit a utility pole on a wide-open stretch of road in Schoharie County, police and fire officials said.
Cross-town traffic
ONEONTA — The foot traffic on state Route 23 will be heavy and thunderous during the opening minutes of the Pit Run 2000.
Coordinators for Sunday's seventh-annual event have changed the 2-Mile Stroll for walkers, which used to travel in the opposite direction of the runners, so that they will now follow the 10K participants from the starting line on Main Street along state Route 23 and back up toward the city along the James F. Lettis Highway.
Watch your step
It's true what they say about that thing bears do in the woods.
On a story last week about a black bear that was visiting Schenevus, Kevin Shulgay and Tim Walke scoured the woods next to a cemetery with the hopes of finding some sign of the creature.
Sheriff named citizen of year by STOP-DWI
DELHI — Delaware County Sheriff Thomas Mills was named Delaware County STOP-DWI Citizen of the Year at the annual STOP-DWI enforcement recognition breakfast Wednesday.
Delaware board OKs parking lot work at care center
DELHI — The first step in the renovation of the Delaware County Countryside Care Center will begin with the reconstruction of the parking lot, the Delaware County Board of Supervisors decided Wednesday.
Friday, September 29, 2000
History exhibit rocks Gilboa
GILBOA — Shortly after dawn this morning, a group of nine fossil trees that date back to the beginning of history will be relocated to a new home.
The Gilboa Historical Society and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection have joined forces to display the rare fossils in an outdoor exhibit near the new Gilboa Town Hall
Area residents divided about drug's use
ONEONTA - The Food and Drug Administration's approval of the early abortion drug mifepristone drew praise and criticism locally from those on opposite sides of the abortion issue.
Woman roots for the home team
OTEGO — Standing on a hill overlooking the Unatego Central School soccer field, 88-year-old Doris Beers tries to pick out her great-granddaughters among the home team players.
Delhi man cleared
DELHI — A Delhi man who was accused of stealing a building was cleared of robbery and grand-larceny charges in Delhi Town Court on Wednesday.
Longtime Otego reverend, wife set to retire
OTEGO — When the Rev. Alan C. Hatch and his wife, Elizabeth, came to Otego about 25 years ago, he recalled the couple "could barely find it."
Court suspends Delaware ADA, Oneonta lawyer
ALBANY — A Delaware County prosecutor has 18 days to fully cooperate with a probe into his private practice or risk losing his license to practice law, a court ruled Wednesday.
Killer attacks prison guards
A prison's guard and second-in-charge were repeatedly stabbed Wednesday by an Ulster County killer who cheated the death penalty by the single vote of a Delhi man.
Thursday, September 28, 2000
Act 1: Arts center planned
ONEONTA — A $250,000 state grant has raised the curtain on plans for opening a performing arts center in downtown Oneonta.
Architects have targeted the former West-Nesbitt feed mill on Market Street as the site for construction of a proposed 39,000-square-foot arts and conference center.
Town case too hot to try
ROSEBOOM - A pending burn-barrel trial in the town of Roseboom has become a hot potato.
So far, five local justices have opted out when given a chance to conduct a jury trial on a charge of letting smoke escape from a burn-barrel fire.
Current round of funding for state isn't new at all
ALBANY -— State lawmakers are still bringing home the bacon from the 1996 Environmental Bond Act. On Tuesday, for instance, they boasted of spreading another $575 million throughout the state for 196 safe drinking-water projects, including $30 million for the Oneonta region.
Delaware board split on N.Y. joining program
DELHI — Controversy arose at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting Wednesday when the issue of supporting New York state's involvement in the Chesapeake Bay Program came up for discussion.
Farm plan under debate
DELHI — The right of farmers to sell easements to the state, prohibiting development of farmland forever, has many Delaware County supervisors pondering the wisdom of the proposed Delaware County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan.
A hands-on approach
UNADILLA — Several boxes of building blocks and a few museum officials are all that some young students in the Unatego elementary schools needed Wednesday for some important lessons in science.
Bovina Center landmark to get facelift, be reopened
BOVINA CENTER — Workers scrambling over the roof of Russell's Store provide a hint of good things to come: Plans are under way to reopen Bovina Center's historic general store.
Wednesday, September 27, 2000
Autumn is cold season for some
ONEONTA — Inez Sheehan scanned the cold-medicine shelves Tuesday at Eckerd Drugs on Chestnut Street before snagging a bottle of Dimetapp.
"I have two little kids that started school, so they come home with all the kiddie crud," said Sheehan, an Oneonta resident who described herself as "a little throaty."
BOCES delays groundbreaking
Difficulty attracting construction bids has delayed groundbreaking for the $10.5 million ONC-BOCES capital project that voters in 19 area school districts approved in May, Deputy Superintendent Jeffrey Hahn said Tuesday.
Magazine honors local printmaker
ONEONTA — Michael Gordon might have the most expensive business cards in Oneonta.
The varnished canvas cards, which are mounted on an open corrugated sheet, cost him about $2 each.
Developers pull Otsego softball camp proposal
FLY CREEK - Developers who hope to create a girls' softball camp in the Cooperstown area are looking for a farm to buy in a town adjacent to Otsego.
Local Greens show support of Nader
COOPERSTOWN - On Tuesday, two of the presidential candidates, Democrat Al Gore and Republican George W. Bush, will meet on a stage in Boston in the year's first televised presidential debate.
DEC issues order to Sidney
SIDNEY — Sidney's efforts to find illegal sewer downspouts have taken on new urgency because a state agency is looking into the matter.
Black-history group to celebrate second anniversary
ONEONTA — The U.S. Colored Troops Institute for Local History and Family Research, a Hartwick College-based black-history group, will celebrate its second anniversary during the first weekend of October.
Tuesday, September 26, 2000
Oneonta writer receives accolades
ONEONTA — Oneonta author Alice Lichtenstein will sit down with the hometown crowd tonight and read from her novel "The Genius of the World," which recently received thumbs-up reviews from the New York Times and National Public Radio.
SUCO will add 25 teachers to faculty
ONEONTA — The State University College at Oneonta plans to hire 25 full-time faculty members this year to fill newly created and open positions, college officials said.
Delaware faces more jail costs
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors is expected Wednesday to authorize spending $210,000 to board county prisoners in other jails.
Delaware County Sheriff Thomas Mills said he has already spent the $400,000 that was budgeted this year to accommodate prisoners elsewhere when there isn't enough room in the Delaware County jail.
3 guilty pleas entered in deals on drug charges
DELHI — Three drug dealers who were arrested in a sweep on Aug. 1 pleaded guilty Monday in Delaware County Court to reduced charges of selling cocaine.
Elmer's officials, union discuss plant's fate
BAINBRIDGE — The future of the Elmer's Products plant at 9-11 Johnson St. in Bainbridge was discussed in meetings on Monday between union and management representatives for the company.
Downtown Family Festival set for Saturday
ONEONTA — Community Downtown Events will present a Downtown Family Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday with entertainment for the family.
Group succeeds in reopening SUCO's camp
ONEONTA — The local College Camp has reopened, thanks to a partnership of students, the administration and the Organization of Ancillary Services at the State University College at Oneonta.
The partners have committed thousands of dollars in support to reopen the facility, which closed in 1992, officials said.
Little impact from oil release expected locally
ONEONTA — Standing outside the entrance to the Southside Mall on Sunday, Karl Hoffmann shook his head when asked if releasing oil from the nation's emergency reserve will have an impact on local homeowners.
College to create new `lab' outdoors
COBLESKILL — The State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill will rehabilitate "Campus Creek," creating an outdoor laboratory and trout stream for students in several majors, college officials said.
Program gives families a taste of life abroad
ONEONTA — Nineteen foreign students gathered in Neahwa Park for a picnic on Sunday to get to know one another and to learn the rules they are expected to follow during their 10-month stay in the United States.
Regional Food Bank honors Middleburgh farmer
Food bank and farm service officials honored Charles Reinhart and his family Wednesday for supporting the Regional Food Bank's "Produce for the People" program.
Franklin Post Office to mark bicentennial
FRANKLIN — What is a birthday party like for a 200-year-old post office? Visitors to Franklin on Saturday will have the opportunity to find out.
Village begins work on sewer-system project
NEW BERLIN — The village of New Berlin is starting the process of building a sewer system and a wastewater treatment plant to serve its business and residential communities.
Saturday, September 23, 2000
Lazio visits with local supporters
ONEONTA _ For U.S. Senate candidate Rick Lazio's first campaign stop in Oneonta on Friday, state Sen. James Seward picked the Neptune Diner.
"We wanted to have one venue where anybody could come in," the Milford Republican said. And, "first thing in the morning, we thought that would be a natural," he said.
Elmer's may cut 35-40 jobs in Bainbridge
Elmer's Products Inc. has announced tentative plans for a cut in production at one of its two Bainbridge manufacturing plants, officials for the company said Friday.
The reduction in output at the turn-of-the-century facility at 9-11 Johnson St. would be phased in through the end of this year
Pataki vetoes study plan
ALBANY — A plan aimed at boosting the state's agricultural economy was shot down Friday by Gov. George Pataki, who said the initiative duplicates services already in place and could inadvertently take money away from existing programs.
City police report arrests
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police have made an arrest in a robbery case on Myrtle Avenue and have also charged two men in connection with a larceny at a local gas station Friday.
Village's years of work will go down in history
BOVINA CENTER — After working for nearly a quarter-century to be recognized as a historic community, Bovina Center has finally earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Otsego looks to 2001 budget
COOPERSTOWN - For six years, the Otsego County Board of Representatives has held the line on property taxes, but next year's budget may present the board with its most difficult challenge.
Historic church to have face lift
DELHI — Autumn sunlight flooded through the windows of the historic Church at Fitch's Bridge, as Kate Kaufmann pointed out the work that must be done to bring the little church back to its former glory.
Friday, September 22, 2000
Downtown bar cannot sell alcohol
ONEONTA — A downtown bar has lost its liquor license for the next two years, based on several charges involving the sale of alcohol to underage patrons, New York State Liquor Authority officials said.
But attorneys for Margarita-Ville, located on Water Street, below 142 Main St. in Oneonta, said they have begun the process of appealing the decision in appellate court.
Black bear pays a visit to Schenevus residents
SCHENEVUS — Nobody's quite sure where the creature came from, but a teen-ager, a school superintendent and three roofers say a big black bear has been wandering around the village of Schenevus the last couple of days.
MOSA seeks more trash
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County is delivering more trash than ever to MOSA this year, so the tri-county solid waste authority has proposed upping the ante for next year by 6,841 tons.
Health Department backs Bassett's cardiac proposal
Bassett Healthcare's application to offer cardiac surgery received an important boost Thursday with the endorsement of a state Health Department panel in New York City.
Concert to welcome High Holidays
ONEONTA — Temple Beth El will usher in the upcoming Jewish High Holidays with a concert that celebrates and shares its religious heritage with the greater community.
Boehlert, two rivals plan three debates
ONEONTA - The three candidates for the 23rd Congressional District seat have agreed to meet in at least three debates, including one scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 30 at the State University College at Oneonta.
Friends recall Pastor Bill
MIDDLEFIELD - Pastor Bill, the Rev. Wilfred L. Lyon, died Wednesday at 86, but his legacy of good works will live on, according to friends and family.
AG defends polling-place accessibility suits
ONEONTA — Despite some voter complaints, state Attorney General Eliot Spitzer defended his efforts to make polling sites accessible to disabled residents Thursday.
2 men arrested in burglaries
Two Otsego County men were arrested Thursday and charged in a string of 21 burglaries, according to state police at Oneonta.
Alexander M. Rogers, 19, of 23 Cherry St. in Oneonta, and Brian J. Boore, 19, of Schoolhouse Road in Portlandville, were each charged with third-degree burglary in numerous cases.
Most city residents to see lower school tax bill
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta's comprehensive property revaluation has shown its impact for the first time in the school tax levy set by the school board Wednesday night.
Sidney school building project begins
SIDNEY — Plans for improving all of the buildings in the Sidney School District are exciting, the superintendent said, but inconveniences the three-year project will create will make it a long wait for completion.
Star's drug bust coverage nets award
The Daily Star's coverage of the May 5 drug bust won a third place award in the New York State Associated Press competition.
Season not a record setter
With the summer of 2000 entering the record books, it may surprise some to find that there were no daily records for rainfall or temperature set during the season.
Event to highlight Oneonta's history
ONEONTA — Traces of the community's past 150 years will be evident Saturday during "Phoebe's Fall Festival" at the Swart-Wilcox House in Oneonta.
Thursday, September 21, 2000
Woman of many faces
COOPERSTOWN - Henry A. Kissinger looks quite good for his 77 years, according to artist Susan Goetz of 22 Pioneer St. in Cooperstown, who's been commissioned to paint his portrait.
"I met him last week and he looks surprisingly healthy for a man of his age," Goetz said. "His skin is smooth and his hair is full. He seems to be in good shape."
Goetz spent only a few minutes with Kissinger, the former secretary of state, but they were important minutes. She'll paint his portrait from a photograph, but, she said, often a photograph obscures details that are easily observed in person.
State report likely to affect school logos, officials say
The top official of the Interior Department's Bureau of Indian Affairs said calling a sports team "redskins" is akin to use of the "n" word when referring to blacks. And as the issue of using American Indian mascots and logos surfaced again this week, area school leaders said they anticipated that the release of a state report in the coming months would force schools to make changes.
`Look to the future'
WELLS BRIDGE — What does a victim of child abuse do with his life, if he lives long enough to escape his situation? If he's Dave Pelzer, he spreads his message on how to succeed, even in the bleakest situations.
Cider mill to be honored
ONEONTA — The Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard has been named the Otsego County Chamber's first Small Business of the Year. "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy" said Rob Robinson, chamber president and CEO. "The small-business owner creates the majority of the new job opportunities in our area.
School board OKs sale of 290 Chestnut
ONEONTA — The Oneonta city school board approved a resolution Wednesday night to sell the former district office building at 290 Chestnut St. to an Oneonta couple who plan to turn it into their house.
New book touts Otsego to others
ONEONTA — A new book from the Otsego County Chamber aims to promote the county to potential employers, employees and residents.
"The goal of the book is to let people know about Otsego County," said chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Rob Robinson.
Norwich man, 21, dies in car accident
A Norwich man died Tuesday after he crashed his car into a tree on the grounds of an apartment complex near Glens Falls. Quoting Warren County sheriff's deputies, The Post-Star newspaper in Glens Falls reported that Thomas M. Place, 21, died of massive chest wounds after he crashed into a birch tree at John P. Burke Apartments in Queensbury.
City police investigate robbery
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police are investigating a knife-point robbery at an apartment on Myrtle Avenue and several reported assaults in the downtown area.
Eyewitnesses recount capture of suspect
ONEONTA — Joanmarie Lyons said she wants to give credit where credit is due.
Lyons, a city of Oneonta resident, was one of several people who became the unwitting victim of 23-year-old John P. Goldberg, who was charged by city police Monday night with attempting to drive off with a car on Chestnut Street and to steal compact discs out of another vehicle at the Elks Club.
Wednesday, September 20, 2000
Protesters a no-show in Delhi
DELHI — A Delhi man who threatened to stop the demolition of a house by lying in the road in front of a bulldozer was sidetracked when he was arrested the night before the protest.
Carleton H. Parker Jr., 63, of DeLancey, said he was upset that the boarded-up house at 15 Bridge St. was coming down to make way for a Habitat for Humanity home.
Otsego bird has W. Nile
A bird, for the first time, in Otsego County has tested positive for the West Nile virus, county public health officials said Tuesday. The dead bird, a crow, was found in the Gilbert Lake Road area in the town of Laurens, but pesticide spraying was not being considered at this time, Otsego Public Health Director Kathryn Abernethy said.
Officer injured in car chase
BAINBRIDGE — A Bainbridge police officer suffered a head injury after his patrol car was hit by another vehicle Monday night during a chase to stop a speeding pickup truck, state police at Sidney said.
National youth orgainzation establishes chapter in area
ONEONTA — "Pull your weight" is their rallying cry. Fulfilling five promises is their goal. "America's Promise — The Alliance for Youth," a not-for-profit organization whose aim, according to its website, is to build and strengthen "the character and competence of youth by mobilizing the nation," has taken root in Otsego County.
$3.8B bond act details aren't very detailed
ALBANY — First they were three months late in saying how they planned to spend the money.
Now, state lawmakers have finally released a list of projects they plan to fund with the proposed $3.8 billion bond act — but the details unveiled Monday were hardly complete.
City council prepares to deal with Einhorn
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta Common Council has begun preparing itself for negotiating next year's contract with Eddie Einhorn for Cooperstown Baseball World.
Bovina Center library gets $260,000 donation
BOVINA CENTER — A man who made a fortune in plastic left a bequest to his wife's hometown library that will keep Bovina Center residents in books for a long, long time.
Polling place moved
ONEONTA — Logistical problems with two city of Oneonta polling places have prompted officials to make some changes before the Nov. 7 general election.
Panel to eye barrel ban
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives has appointed a committee to study whether people should burn trash in backyard barrels.
Study: Mammograms no more beneficial than exams
Annual mammogram screening for breast cancer among women older than 50 does not reduce the rate of death from the disease when compared to women who receive competent physical breast examinations alone, according to a large Canadian study.
Officials seek raises
COOPERSTOWN - Are the Otsego County Elections commissioners and deputy commissioners underpaid? They think so, and they made their case to the county's Intergovernmental Affairs Committee on Tuesday.
Otsego Democrats' judge pick new to politics
COOPERSTOWN - Kelley Eckmair said people were smiling wherever she went Tuesday as word that she'd accepted the Democratic nomination to become the next Otsego County and Family Court judge spread.
Tuesday, September 19, 2000
Official rescues woman from fire
HARTWICK SEMINARY — An Otsego County emergency services official risked his life to save an elderly woman who was severely burned in a fire at her mobile home Monday.
Greg Morrison, assistant coordinator of emergency services for Otsego County, rushed into the burning home of Helen Ackler at about 10:30 a.m. and rescued her from searing heat, clouds of stifling black smoke and a horrible death.
State details roads plan
ALBANY — Passenger rail service, airport funding and extensive local-road improvements are just some of the area projects eyed under a five-year $38 billion transportation plan unveiled Monday by the state Legislature.
Otsego Dems pick nominee
ONEONTA - Oneonta lawyer Kelley Eckmair has accepted the Otsego County Democratic Committee's nomination to run for county and family court judge.
Awards put spotlight on Oneonta residents
ONEONTA — The Future for Oneonta Foundation honored several local residents during its annual Community Leadership Lunch on Monday.
Fire investigators seek blaze's cause
BAINBRIDGE — The Sunday-afternoon fire that struck the abandoned former Perry Builders site in Bainbridge is still under investigation, according to local authorities.
Woman shares date rape story at SUCOtalk
ONEONTA — Alyssa Hammer said date rape is a concern on all college campuses.
"I thinks it's a problem at every school," said Hammer, a State University College at Oneonta junior and one of more than 120 other students at a SUCO program on date rape Monday night.
Man pleads guilty to 1996 tree thefts
DELHI — A Monticello man appeared in Delaware County Court on Monday and admitted he stole trees in 1996.
Robert Fox, 39, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of fourth-degree grand larceny. The plea was the result of a plea-bargain agreement Fox negotiated with Assistant State Attorney General David Prior.
Protest planned against project
DELHI — A Delhi man who used to live in a house that is due to be razed today plans to lie in the road in front of the bulldozer to halt the destruction, he said.
Century of history stored at Andes farm
ANDES — Implements and artifacts lovingly preserved in a weathered barn on the Tremperskill Road in Andes pay homage to the Liddle family's farming heritage, which spans more than a century.
Martin and Margaret "Peggy" Liddle operate a family farm that was established in 1878 by Thomas Liddle, Martin's great-grandfather.
Special Ed no longer means Separate Ed
For too long, schools and society have had low expectations of students with disabilities, local educators said. Until recently, many schools taught special education students in self-contained classrooms apart from the general population and the general curriculum.
Mayor to give alderman shot at Einhorn plan
ONEONTA — The first pitch at next season's Cooperstown Baseball World is about nine months away, but the city will begin preparing for negotiations with camp owner Eddie Einhorn at a special Common Council meeting Tuesday.
Family, funds sought for house
DELHI — Plans are under way to build a new riverfront house in Delhi, but two important ingredients are missing.
The Delaware County Habitat for Humanity has acquired the property at 15 Bridge St. to build the fifth Habitat house in Delaware County, but it needs a family to live in the house and funds to purchase the materials to construct it.
Sidney events kicks off Alzheimer's fund-raiser
The weather was cool and sunny for the first Sidney Memory Walk to support the Alzheimer's Association. Forty people walked in the event on Saturday, said chairwoman Emma Herbison.
Saturday, September 16, 2000
Parents, teens debate impact of violent media
After watching the R-rated movie "The Cell" at Oneonta Cinemas for the second time Wednesday evening, Amy Forkhamer, 18, of Delhi, said she didn't see any problem with the film's content.
"I love scary movies. I thought this was different," she said of the film, which is restricted for youths under 17 because of bizarre violence, sexual images, nudity and language.
Theater owners take steps, too
Local movie theater operators say they are aware of parental and community concerns, so they try to regulate their movie audiences according to the age-based rating system in effect.
Rescue squads short of help
OTEGO - The area's rescue squads face a serious shortage of volunteers, and a meeting in Otego this month will address the issue.
"The trend is not encouraging and it's gotten to the point where we must take action," said Ronald Feldstein, an Otsego County representative from Otego. "In Otego, often we're not able to get a crew together during working hours and something has to be done about it."
OHS Alumni Association plans for gigantic reunion
ONEONTA — Coordinators are hoping it will be the biggest Oneonta High School class reunion ever.
The Oneonta High School Alumni Association will sponsor its first OHS Alumni Weekend, open to all graduates spanning the decades, starting Saturday, Sept. 30, with a whole day of reunion festivities and ending Sunday afternoon with the annual Ricky J. Parisian Memorial Pit Run.
Four charged with helping inmate escape
MILFORD - Four inmates of the Otsego County jail were charged Friday with first-degree escape for allegedly helping suspected murderer Xavier Lee Valentine break out of the jail Sept. 1.
Virus appears locally again
A second bird in Delaware County has tested positive for the West Nile virus, officials said Friday.
The state health commissioner reminded New Yorkers that the virus is a health risk, and a Delaware County official urged caution but not alarm.
Green politician will keep farming during campaign
While U.S. Senate candidates Hillary Clinton and Rick Lazio were prepping for their first debate Wednesday, Green Party nominee Mark Dunau of Hancock was in New York City delivering vegetables.
"I was getting the election results and I was delivering" produce to restaurants, said Dunau, an organic farmer who grows salad greens.
SUCO professor wins grant for studies in Alaska
ONEONTA — For the fifth time in six years, State University College at Oneonta earth sciences Professor P. Jay Fleisher has been awarded a research grant from the National Geographic Society.
Professor reviews voting patterns
ONEONTA — Without women, Bob Dole might now be finishing his first term as president.
That's because Clinton received the support of 43 percent of men but a convincing 54 percent of women.
Man charged in city burglary
ONEONTA — A former city of Oneonta man who served time in prison on drug and weapons charges is back in jail after being arrested for robbing a couple at gunpoint at their River Street apartment, city police said Friday.
Friday, September 15, 2000
City park plan gets boost
ONEONTA — The state Department of Transportation has stoked the coals of a city-supported project that has been sitting on the back burner for about 20 years.
A feasibility study will begin this week on the proposed development of a 41/2- to 5-mile trail along the Susquehanna River, dubbed the Oneonta Susquehanna Greenway by city officials and residents who have entertained the idea of the project for years.
Couple: Don't we count?
ONEONTA — Joan and Al Lutz wanted to stand up and be counted for the U.S. Census.
But it could be too late, as census officials said the tally is taken, and Oneonta city officials said residents with similar concerns previously called City Hall.
Church hopes to find young peacemakers
COOPERSTOWN - High school and middle school students throughout Otsego County are being challenged by the Cooperstown Presbyterian Church to write essays on "Promoting peace in my school."
State Supreme Court hears arguments in Delhi
DELHI — For the first time in its 104-year history, the state Supreme Court, Appellate Division Third Judicial Department, held its regular court session in Delaware County on Thursday.
Highway building to be dedicated
BURLINGTON - The Burlington Highway Department crew was busy sprucing up its new highway barn on Norton Road on Thursday, getting ready for an open house to be held at 1 p.m. Saturday.
Grant to give schools a boost in technology
ONEONTA — The Oneonta City School District has received a $75,000 grant to help connect computers to the Internet in its four elementary schools, state Sen. James L. Seward announced Thursday.
Four plead innocent in Otsego
COOPERSTOWN — The following defendants pleaded innocent at arraignments in Otsego County Court on Monday after being charged via Superior Court Informations:
Thursday, September 14, 2000
Hartwick College puts Buddhism on show with series
ONEONTA — In the land of dairy farms, county fairs and Christian churches, there's a new arrival: Buddhism.
Hartwick College kicked off its "Buddhism in the Catskills" series Wednesday, a three-month-long conference featuring art exhibitions, music, meditation, free weekly lectures and informal discussion sessions with two Tibetan Buddhist monks.
Einhorn plans revised pitch
HARTWICK SEMINARY — Eddie Einhorn has changed his plans for Cooperstown Baseball World.
After a successful inaugural season at the State University College at Oneonta, the Chicago White Sox co-owner said he plans to keep his camp at the college and build a complex of fields for tournament play in Hartwick.
Chief: Boost police force
ONEONTA — More police officers are the answer to halting an increasing amount of drug-related crime in the city of Oneonta, police Chief John J. Donadio said Wednesday.
Otsego won't support girls softball camp
FLY CREEK - With an audience of nearly 50 people watching Tuesday evening, the Otsego Town Planning Board declined to approve the concept of a softball camp for 600 girls and 1,400 spectators on state Route 205.
Local man's chick named champ
MOUNT UPTON — Some people win the big game on grassy playing fields. But for John Hayes of Mount Upton, victory came during this year's New York State Fair.
Onoenta police investigate thefts
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police are investigating a reported burglary at a local restaurant on Chestnut Street.
Between 11:30 p.m. Saturday and 5:45 a.m. Sunday, someone broke into the Ponderosa Steak House and attempted to take off with the restaurant safe, police said.
Burglars hit Cooperstown businesses
COOPERSTOWN - Police are investigating a string of burglaries that occurred early Tuesday morning in the village of Cooperstown and along state Route 28 south of the village.
Jury finds Delhi man guilty of harassment
DELHI — After a one-day trial, a Delaware County jury found a Delhi man innocent of intimidating a witness but guilty of harassment.
Otsego GOP makes pick
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Republican Committee has selected Oneonta lawyer Brian Burns as the party's nominee to be the next Otsego County and Family Court judge, a post vacated last month by Democrat Nettie Jean Scarzafava.
Town tables motion to limit horse ownership
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Town Board will rewrite a proposed law that would have restricted horse ownership to landowners with at least 5 acres, the town supervisor said Wednesday.
Upstate economy takes center stage
BUFFALO — It's the economy, stupid — the upstate economy, that is.
The first debate between Hillary Rodham Clinton and Rick Lazio for the open U.S. Senate seat from New York featured its fair share of nasty barbs.
Wednesday, September 13, 2000
Boehlert endures challenge
COOPERSTOWN - Incumbent 23rd District Rep. Sherwood L. Boehlert of New Hartford beat Spanish teacher David B. Vickers of Hamilton in Tuesday's Republican primary, garnering just over 56 percent of the vote in unofficial results.
Prank disrupts Internet service
Marjorie DeFazio said she quickly became suspicious when she received an e-mail message last Wednesday night requesting her credit-card number.
"When I first looked at it, I was pretty sure it was somebody trying to steal something," the 67-year-old Unadilla resident explained of the e-mail message that said her Internet-service provider had lost her billing information.
OFO to honor area residents, Wilber Bank
Opportunities for Otsego plans to honor three individuals and a local bank next week for their work with the Community Connections County Food Bank.
Music, moon help make local railride a special trip
ARKVILLE — As the late-afternoon sun casts a golden glow on the hills surrounding Arkville, passengers prepare to board the Delaware & Ulster Railride for a Twilight on the Rails excursion.
Holes in spillway floor to be repaired, DEC says
Holes in the spillway floor of the Gilboa Dam are scheduled for repair this fall, according to Joel A. Miele Sr., commissioner of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.
Teacher wants help to make new cooking program sizzle
ONEONTA — An after-school club at Oneonta Middle School needs some help to get cooking, a teacher said last week.
Bonnie S. Jones, a seventh-grade home-and-career skills teacher at OMS, said she wants to start a gourmet foods club later this month, but she needs help.
DEC agrees to release more reservoir water
DEPOSIT — Water levels in the West Branch of the Delaware River will be increased by more releases from the Cannonsville Reservoir, state Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner John P. Cahill said.
Hartwick students aim to bring music into girls' lives
ONEONTA — Fifteen students at Hartwick College have started a community service project that will provide free music lessons and positive role models for girls in grades three to eight, the student in charge of the program said.
Polls open today for primaries
COOPERSTOWN - After months of campaigning by candidates, today the voters can voice their preferences in primary elections for U.S. senator, U.S. representative and local offices.
Polling Places
Otsego County polling places for Tuesday's primary election (polls are open from noon to 9 p.m.) are...
Milford man faces death ... with help
MILFORD — Harold W. Sallie, 91, has refused chemotherapy, radiation and other aggressive treatments for his prostate cancer.
Leaders divided on crime policies
ONEONTA — Combating crime and violence in Oneonta is the focus of "Initiative 2000," a document recently created by members of the city's Board of Public Safety.
Chenango sheriff seeks more funds for prisoners
NORWICH — The recent return of a prisoner allegedly involved with a Norwich homicide to the Chenango County jail will have an impact on future budget requests from the sheriff's department, the sheriff said.
Sidney Village Board approves three laws
SIDNEY — The Sidney Village Board approved three laws during its Monday meeting.
Although the laws were designed to help improve the overall appearance of the village, they faced some opposition.
Hopeful refuses to vote for Gore
State Senate candidate the Rev. Roy Chamberlin has ended his quest to be endorsed by the Otsego County Democratic Committee because it wants him to support Al Gore in the presidential election.
Hartwick College to present several programs on Buddhism
ONEONTA — C.W. Huntington Jr., assistant professor of religious studies at Hartwick College, will open a series of lectures for the semester-long Buddhism in the Catskills conference at the college.
Drug suspect pleads guilty in Delaware
DELHI — The man facing the most serious charges from the Aug. 1 Delaware County drug bust pleaded guilty to reduced charges in county court Monday.
Area caregivers to answer questions
Local caregivers will be available by telephone tonight and Wednesday night after a nationally broadcast program about "Death in America," according to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care.
Orpheus founder aims to open arts center in city
ONEONTA — Orpheus Theatre founder Peter Macris is playing a new role these days — that of trying to transform a former Oneonta feed mill into an arts and conference center.
Bainbridge man killed in one-car crash
State police are investigating the cause of an accident that killed a 24-year-old Bainbridge man Saturday night in Chenango County. According to police, Timothy A. Scofield was driving west on county Route 35 when he lost control near the intersection of county Route 38 about 9 p.m.
Sidney's exchange with ends
SIDNEY — Fifteen students from Madrid were to return to their native country today following a three-week stay in Sidney.
Town, city have tentative deal on fire contract
ONEONTA — A tentative agreement has been reached between the city of Oneonta and the town of Oneonta fire district for fire protection services during the next four years to property owners and residents in the district.
Saturday, September 9, 2000
Local quarries face crackdown
Quarrying bluestone is a time-honored occupation in Delaware County, providing jobs for more than 600 people, but the future of the $40 million stone-cutting industry is in jeopardy.
Otego man killed
An Otego man was killed in an early-morning logging accident Friday in the town of Franklin, Delaware County Sheriff's deputies said.
Audit finds excesses at apple growers group
ALBANY — New York's apple farmers are getting a rotten deal from the state-controlled money they spend with hopes of boosting their business, according to a new state audit.
Amish families buy local farms
SPRINGFIELD - The Amish are coming to Springfield, hoping to farm and establish a community of several families near the Route 20 corridor in the next year, according to Johanna Collins of McShane Road.
Happy endings for florist, fair choir
It's often fun to know the rest of the story, particularly when the story has a great ending.
Recently, I reported on a man who dreamed of leading a choir of 100 voices and a woman who couldn't wait to give away 1,250 roses.
Village wants post office to stay put
FRANKLIN — The U.S. Postal Service plans to relocate the post office in Franklin, and the mayor and The Franklin Improvement Society said the office must remain in the village.
The post office is in the center of the Franklin business district, and moving it out of the village would harm downtown business, Mayor Thomas Butts and group members said.
Ammonia leak closes Delaware County plant
DELHI — An ammonia leak at DMV International Nutritionals at 12:45 p.m. Friday led to the evacuation of the plant but resulted in no injuries.
Friday, September 8, 2000
Vintage tractor enthusiasts to compete in Fly Creek
FLY CREEK - Vintage tractors will be on display this weekend during the third annual Fall Tractor Festival to be held at the Fly Creek Cider Mill. Old Fords, John Deeres and other makes from years past will compete in four categories during the two-day event, with singers and musicians providing other entertainment.
Sheriff reacts to escape
PHOENIX MILLS - Security at the Otsego County jail has been tightened in the wake of a short-lived escape last Friday by accused murderer Xavier Lee Valentine, 38, of Staten Island.
City: Policy in the works
ONEONTA — Convicted sex offender Daniel W. Hewlett moved into Jennifer Shaver's city of Oneonta neighborhood in June, and she wants to know why she didn't hear about it until last week.
Local Democrats stand behind Clinton
Local Hillary Clinton supporters said they are taking a low-key approach to the party's U.S. Senate primary on Tuesday between the first lady and Manhattan physician Mark S. McMahon.
Hancock resident seeks Green Party nod for Senate seat
If the U.S. Senate race to succeed Daniel P. Moynihan were a theater production, Hancock resident Mark Dunau, a Green Party candidate and former playwright, would be running off-off-Broadway.
Federal grant helps establish area after-school programs
Working parents and latch-key children in six area school districts will have free after-school and child-care programs available for the next three years thanks to a $1.9 million federal grant, the manager of the program said Thursday.
Thursday, September 7, 2000
Transition begins for middle-schoolers
SIDNEY — The air was abuzz in the Sidney Middle School cafeteria Wednesday as two not-so-old friends discussed the joys of summer and the excitement of the first day of school.
Folklore forewarns of formidable winter
Frost was on the pumpkin the last few nights, hinting that a long, hard winter may be on the way.
Warning signs of a wicked winter are everywhere, if you believe in folklore and nature's ability to predict weather.
N.Y.'ers happy, survey finds
ALBANY — From religious rituals to the race for U.S. Senate, a far-reaching poll released Wednesday found upstate New Yorkers happy with their lives but ready to bolt the booming business climate for opportunities elsewhere.
Former SUCO professor helps show go on at Orpheus Theatre
ONEONTA — The Orpheus Theatre's annual phone-a-thon raised a record amount of money this year, and a producer at the organization said one man is greatly responsible for the accomplishment.
Residents urge city to make King Street safer
ONEONTA — King Street resident Elizabeth McDonald says it's not a case of if, but when, a serious accident will happen at the foot of her road that intersects Chestnut Street in the city of Oneonta.
Rivals' campaigns markedly different
COOPERSTOWN - In the last few days before the Republican primary, Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, and David Vickers, a Spanish teacher at Hamilton Central School, are campaigning hard.
$3.8B bond act still a mystery
ALBANY — State lawmakers were supposed to release details June 14 of how the $3.8 billion transportation bond act would be broken down.
They still haven't done so, and in just 62 days, the issue will go before voters.
Grant to help SUCO upgrade technology
ONEONTA — A $500,000 state grant has been awarded to the State University College at Oneonta to improve its technology resources for students and the greater community.
Otsego exceeds MOSA quota
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County has sent too much garbage to MOSA through the first eight months of this year, and now the authority said it wants more garbage next year.
43 properties up for awards
ONEONTA — Nominations are in to recognize local properties that have been well maintained or improved. More than 40 properties have been put on the slate of candidates in this year's Properties of Merit awards program.
Training rules agreement hard for panel to reach
ONEONTA — It doesn't look like the policy committee considering changes to athletic training rules in the Oneonta City School District will reach a consensus anytime soon.
Wednesday, September 6, 2000
Schools brush up as classes begin
The shopping is finished, the books are open and fleets of buses are back on the road. Let the 2000-2001 school year begin. Students are heading back to classrooms in more than 30 area school districts today, but several schools already ushered in the new year Tuesday with staff orientation sessions.
City, CSEA reach deal
ONEONTA — Eight months of tense, sometimes bitter, negotiations over health care and salary issues ended this week in a signed contract between the city of Oneonta and its local Civil Service Employees Association union.
Audubon plans hawk watches
ONEONTA — The annual southbound migration of birds through the upper Susquehanna region and the Catskills has begun, and with it comes the start of the local Audubon Society's hawk watch.
Council hears worries
ONEONTA — Luther Street residents in the city of Oneonta want to know why a serious sex offender has moved into their neighborhood and they didn't know about it.
Delhi students to see several new faces
DELHI — A new cast of administrators will greet Delaware Academy and Central School students when they return to their classrooms today.
Maria C. Rice, Delaware Academy's new superintendent, started work July 1.
6 OPT buses recalled
ONEONTA — Having just lost its six newest buses to a national recall, Oneonta Public Transit will scramble this week to find enough vehicles to cover its daily routes.
Man admits '98 burglaries
DELHI — A Colorado man appeared in Delaware County Court on Tuesday and pleaded guilty to burglarizing the Margaretville Country Store and Bruce Country Farms on July 27, 1998.
Family Dollar to soon open in Sidney plaza
SIDNEY — A Family Dollar store will soon be coming to Sidney, according to officials. The discount store is expected to open this fall in the former Jamesway Plaza.
Tuesday, September 5, 2000
Community rallies to keep its school
LEONARDSVILLE - Signs of protest are unmistakable in the Mount Markham Central School District, where the administration wants to close its elementary school in Leonardsville by September 2001.
Students have other options for education
If parents are looking for an alternative to public school education for their children, and home schooling is not an option, private schools can offer a solution.
Groups to help clean up Delaware River branches
Cascading creeks, shallow streams and the beautiful branches of the Delaware River all contribute to the charm of Delaware County, but the litter along the stream banks mars the image and spoils the view.
New school chief has experience
WELLS BRIDGE — Rex Hurlburt Jr., who took over the superintendent's job at Unatego Central School on July 1, brings more experience to the job than most new school leaders.
SUCO Hillel to offer `Bagel Talk' lectures
ONEONTA — History Professor William M. Simons of the State University College at Oneonta will present "Searching for Hank Greenberg: Jews and the National Pastime" as the first of four scheduled lectures in a new "Bagel Talk Series" sponsored by Hillel of SUCO.
Funeral today for fallen football player
Funeral services will be held today for Jarred A. Romero, the 16-year-old Richfield Springs football player who suffered a fatal heart attack after practice on Thursday.
Two vie for GOP nod in Davenport
Davenport Republicans may have a tough time deciding who to vote for in the Sept. 12 primary.
The Republican contest for a chance at a seat on the Davenport Town Board features two candidates who have much in common.
Saturday, September 2, 2000
Hartwick welcomes students at ceremony
ONEONTA — What a great beginning for the Hartwick College Class of 2004, Reid Golden, dean of student life, said Friday.
"You walked out and the rain went away," Golden said at the official beginning to the college's 2000-2001 year.
Athlete dies of heart attack
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - Students and staff at Richfield Springs Central School were in mourning Friday for 10th-grader Jarred Romero, who collapsed of a heart attack on the football field after practice Thursday evening, officials said.
Habitat chapter dedicates barn to volunteer
As a longtime construction manager, Heinz Kuhne understood the importance of having a central place for keeping building supplies.
Kuhne, as a result, was one of the earlier supporters of Habitat for Humanity of Otsego County's plans to put up a tool barn in Hartwick.
Meeting will focus on Route 7 bridge
SIDNEY — The replacement of the state Route 7 bridge, which crosses the Unadilla River, will be the subject of a public meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in Room 202 of the Sidney Civic Center.
Parents give home-schooling an A
In 1993, 14-year-old Bethany Hillis of South Worcester said she didn't feel she was missing out on anything as a student who received her education at home.
Man tries jail break
An accused murderer escaped briefly from the Otsego County Jail on Friday morning before police recaptured him on Cat Town Road in Fly Creek.
Area residents sorry to see summer end soon
ONEONTA — Perhaps Friday's weather served as an appropriate prelude to what is unofficially summer's final weekend.
After a burst of sunshine in the morning, the moist air turned to intermittent showers, washing out much of the afternoon.
Family grateful for support from MDA
At $1,500 for a pair of custom-made leg braces and a stroller that runs between $200 to $600, medical expenses quickly add up for Kathleen Hays' daughters, Bryanna and Courtney.
Wireless 911 bill vetoed
ALBANY — Legislation that would have wiped out the difference between making 911 calls from a home or office phone and making one from a cellular or digital wireless phone was vetoed by Gov. George Pataki this week.
Friday, September 1, 2000
Schools pinched for space
Cramming used to be what students did to prepare for tests. Now cramming is what schools do to fit students into classrooms. Books are bigger. Computers with large screens fill tables. Huge charts line the walls.
Fund-raiser to take town back in time
Roxbury residents will become time travelers on Sunday, when they turn the calendar back 100 years to spend an afternoon in Kirkside Park with visitors from another era.
Revelers will arrive by train, on foot, via horseback or in automobiles to enjoy an old-fashioned outing when Roxbury's Kirkside Park Committee celebrates "A Turn of the Century Day in Kirkside Park."
Southside Mall displays push safety messages
ONEONTA — Otsego County STOP-DWI and the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee unveiled two displays at the Southside Mall on Thursday designed to educate the public about the dangers of drinking and driving.
Sidney water falls at fair
After Sidney water placed third in its division at the state competition on Wednesday, Water Superintendent Jim Nordberg was philosophical.
Supervisor: Removal best option for landfill
State and federal officials presented plans being considered for cleaning up the town of Butternuts landfill site at a public hearing held Wednesday at the Gilbertsville Municipal Hall.
Police arrest second man in robbery
ONEONTA — Oneonta city police made a second arrest Thursday in an armed robbery that occurred last month in Huntington Park.
Teachers use grant to boost tech skills
RICHFIELD SPRINGS — True to the digital age, a group of about 40 teachers took a lesson Thursday on how to effectively use one computer to instruct a classroom full of students.
