Local students get a jump on college
When Laurens Central School senior Jim Parry starts college next fall, he will probably be one academic step ahead of most of his peers. Parry and four other Laurens seniors have been taking classes at Hartwick College this semester to earn credit toward their collegiate academics. "I wanted to challenge myself and to see if it was what I expected college to be," Parry said of his foray into college classroom life.
Hopefuls get feisty at debate
ONEONTA - The three candidates for New York's 23rd Congressional District seat met in a spirited debate Monday evening at the State University College at Oneonta.
The forum, which was televised on cable Channel 23, was sponsored by the League of Women Voters and moderated by Susan R. Hughson.
Political flap costs café
ONEONTA — Downtown business tenant e-mail me mocha cafe has lost its lease with Hartwick College for refusing to remove posters and flyers promoting a local political candidate, officials at the Oneonta college said. Owners of the cafe in the Telecommuting Center on Main Street are questioning their right to free speech and said the posters will remain up until after Election Day next week.
No treats for weekend troublemakers
ONEONTA — Tonight is supposed to be the witching hour for those ghosts and goblins planning to celebrate Halloween. But most of the scary action, including fights and alcohol related violations, already happened over the weekend, said city of Oneonta police.
Drug defendant pleads guilty to reduced charge
DELHI — The man facing the most serious charges from the Aug. 1 Delaware County drug bust was sentenced in county court on Monday.
Daniel A. Howell Jr., 30, of Stamford, pleaded guilty to three felony counts of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.
Incumbent travels far, but road appears clear
ALBANY — As far as political bumpy roads go, state Sen. John J. Bonacic can be thankful for his own smooth ride. Or, as he puts it, eight years of "penance" as a power-starved Assembly minority member has paid off.
Views mixed on proposal for bond act
ONEONTA — When a business is flush with cash, the first thing it should do is pay down its debt, said Rob Robinson, president and chief executive officer of the Otsego County Chamber.
In this era of budget surpluses, New York should abide by the same principle, he said. The last thing the state should do is borrow a record amount of money.
Grant to help eighth-graders in poorer schools
COBLESKILL — The Liberty Partnership program at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill has been awarded a four-year, $422,380 grant to help eighth-graders in the region's poorest schools gain skills and knowledge needed to enter college or the work force.
Officials: Trick-or-treat with care
The state Consumer Protection Board and the New York State Police gave some tips for trick-or-treating on Halloween.
Monday, October 30, 2000
Gore needs to lure men back from GOP
If men alone could vote next week, Republican George W. Bush might soon occupy the White House his father left eight years ago.
And if only women voted, Democrat Al Gore might be elected president, fulfilling his father's dream.
Catskill grants will give Main Streets boost
A downtown design team will help four Catskill communities with Main Street revitalization plans.
The Catskill Center for Conservation and Development recently received grants totaling more than $30,000 from the A. Lindsay and Olive B. O'Connor Foundation. The grant money will be used to offer technical assistance to area communities over the next year.
Child-care center receives $25,000 grant, expands offerings
SIDNEY — Recent donations have allowed the Cullman Child Development Center to increase the activities it offers students at its Sidney facilities.
The center, a private, not-for-profit, child-care facility, recently received a $25,000 grant from the Mead Foundation, the charitable arm of the Mead Corp. in Dayton, Ohio, which owns Sidney-based At-A-Glance.
Campaign contributions at issue in race
The race for New York's 50th district Senate seat might be characterized as a battle between David and Goliath. Goliath, as in seven-term-going-on-eight incumbent, James L. Seward, R-Milford.
David, as in an 84-year-old retired preacher, the Rev. Roy Chamberlin, of Pittsfield.
The two have started throwing stones as Election Day approaches.
Judge: Lazio, Clinton ballots to be locked up
It's going to be tough to commit election fraud in the U.S. Senate race between Hillary Clinton and Rick Lazio. State Supreme Court Justice Robert D. Lippmann handed down a decision on Thursday ordering election commissioners to place all paper ballots related to the election under lock and key until they are counted.
Churches collecting gifts for needy children
SIDNEY — Shelly Mcfee of Bainbridge was looking for a way for her children to learn the spirit of giving during the holiday season. She found what she was looking for in the Operation Christmas Child program.
Saturday, October 28, 2000
Meadows worker awarded
PHOENIX MILLS - Charlene Higgins, activities director of The Meadows, Otsego County's nursing home, has been selected the state's activities director of the year.
At a ceremony earlier this month at the Hotel Thayer, on the grounds of U.S. Military Academy at West Point, she was praised for her good work and given a plaque by the state's Activities Association for Leisure Time Personnel. And Wednesday morning, during the monthly meeting of The Meadows' Residents' Council, she was congratulated again.
MMH in trouble, officials say
Margaretville Memorial Hospital owes more than $1 million in Medicare debt, which is threatening the financial viability of the hospital.
Group forms to help clinic
Volunteers who want to save their community's hospital have formed the Friends of the Margaretville Memorial Hospital and are spearheading a letter-writing campaign.
How much is too much?
Todd Henchey, the father of a ninth-grader at Bainbridge-Guilford High School, said he thinks the one to two hours a day his son, Matt, spends on homework is reasonable.
B-G senior Mike Fletcher, on the other hand, said he usually doesn't have any homework to do.
Hartwick planners OK motel
HARTWICK - At a meeting Thursday, the Hartwick Planning Board approved an application to build a 76-unit Holiday Express Motel on state Route 28 just north of the Hartwick Commons.
Panel on burn barrels meets
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's special committee on burn barrels watched videos on the effects of backyard burning during Thursday's meeting at the county office building in Cooperstown.
"They were very educational," said Martha Clarvoe of Hartwick, a member of the group. "We saw one video by Dr. Paul Connett of St. Lawrence University that compared the emissions of burn barrels with those from municipal incinerators."
Center competition continues
If the creation of a new administrative position at Bassett Healthcare is any indication, the competition for area cancer patients will continue to grow.
State could lose $50M in aid if DWI bill fails
ALBANY — New York state stands to lose an estimated $50 million in federal highway money between the end of 2003 and 2006 if lawmakers fail to adopt the nation's new tough drunken-driving standards.
Clinton faces hurdles for law license
ALBANY — Some New Yorkers might welcome President Bill Clinton making this state his new home.
But don't expect the state courts throwing out the welcome mat for the Arkansas lawyer who may soon want to hang his shingle in the Empire State.
Then again, it's not like he'll otherwise be at a loss for opportunities.
Friday, October 27, 2000
Recognition gives SUCO shot in arm
ONEONTA — The window of opportunity just opened wider for education majors at the State University College at Oneonta.
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education announced Tuesday that SUCO has met rigorous, demanding national standards in its graduate and undergraduate teacher education programs.
Man's donation strikes chord with Sidney church
SIDNEY — A gift of 400 shares of General Electric stock was music to a local church's ears.
And the public may hear just how good the stock sounds when it is combined with a world-renowned musician at an organ recital at St. Paul's Episcopal Church on River Street at 3 p.m. Sunday.
Sony's newest game system sells out quickly
ONEONTA — When 17-year-old Joel Staples joined the line to purchase a Sony PlayStation2 at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, there were already 21 Wal-Mart customers ahead of him.
An hour later, the store's 30 game systems, which officially went on sale nationwide at midnight, already had been accounted for, with 30 people standing in line for one, said Jeff Staples, Joel's father and a Wal-Mart employee.
Quarrymen, Crouch discuss permit rules
WALTON — A group of independent bluestone quarrymen gathered at TA's Restaurant in Walton on Thursday morning to discuss safeguarding their livelihoods with Assemblyman Clifford W. Crouch, R-Bainbridge.
Oneonta trail study moves on
ONEONTA — Planners are continuing to look into the feasibility of developing recreational trails along the banks of the Susquehanna River in the city and town of Oneonta.
Green candidate for U.S. Senate aims for impact
Green Party U.S. Senate candidate Mark Dunau is not willing to make a prediction in the race between first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and Rep. Rick Lazio.
"I don't want to bet on the puddle of manure I'm about to step in to," said Dunau, an organic farmer from Hancock who won his party's Sept. 12 three-way primary with several hundred votes.
Unadilla history takes center stage
What early resident of Unadilla has been honored on a postage stamp issued by the United States Postal Service? A new book on that individual, Sybil Ludington, a hero of the Revolutionary War, was one of the topics discussed during the first meeting of the Unadilla historical society.
Police nab burglary suspects
ONEONTA — Oneonta city police arrested two men Thursday on charges stemming from separate burglaries. Michael V. Capeillo, 19, of Walton, was charged with first-degree burglary and first-degree robbery, both felonies; and petit larceny, a misdemeanor, police said.
Thursday, October 26, 2000
Coyotes ravage farm's stock
Dairy farmer Peter Mauer planned to feed goat's milk to his calves next spring.
Now Mauer, who operates a 60-head farm on Scotch Hill Road near Bloomville, may have to scrap those plans.
On Sunday, he said, coyotes apparently killed nine of the 12 goats he bought in the spring.
Hopefuls trade ideas at debate
ONEONTA - Six candidates for legislative and judicial posts debated Wednesday evening at the State University College at Oneonta before an audience of about 125 people.
County panel OKs inn
Otsego County Planning Board members unanimously gave their approval for a new, 76-unit Holiday Inn Express to be built on state Route 28 in Hartwick Seminary.
Delaware plan has 4.8% hike in levy
DELHI — Delaware County's tentative 2001 budget has increased by $733,608 over the 2000 budget, raising the tax levy by 4.8 percent.
Middlefield tax levy down in proposal
MIDDLEFIELD - The town of Middlefield will hold a public hearing today on the new spending plan for the coming year. The new budget calls for a slight reduction in the tax levy.
County to have computer system for financial work
DELHI — The Delaware County treasurer's office will soon be equipped with a state-of-the-art financial software system that carries a price tag of $278,129.
Local, state officials consider design for bridge
COOPERSTOWN - A new Main Street bridge in Cooperstown, joining the towns of Middlefield and Otsego, is likely to be built next year, according to David Bliss, Middlefield town supervisor.
Wednesday, October 25, 2000
Road ahead unclear for proposed bond
The $3.8 billion transportation plan going before voters Nov. 7 would fund vital infrastructure improvements if approved, but the lack of specifics tied to the act is hurting its chances of passing, state Sen. James L. Seward, R-Milford, said. "It's a very murky situation which I know is causing some uneasiness," Seward said last week.
Though he supports the act, Seward is not campaigning for it as he seeks his eighth term in the Senate, he said.
State: Delhi school got too much aid
DELHI — Delhi school officials said they were shocked to learn the state Education Department has decided that Delaware Academy received almost $2 million in state aid that it didn't have coming to it.
SUCO student's `addiction' leads to honor from college
ONEONTA — Isa Ellis started volunteering at the invitation of a friend when she was 14 years old and living in Brooklyn. She's a junior at the State University College at Oneonta now, and her volunteering addiction, as she calls it, recently earned her an award.
Man acquitted in sodomy case
COOPERSTOWN - After deliberating less than two hours Tuesday, a jury in Otsego County Court acquitted Kevin Dru Morgan of Laurens of three charges of sodomy and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.
Delaware County man sentenced for endangering wife
DELHI — A Corbett man, who told police he wanted to kill his wife and her family, was sentenced in Delaware County Court on Monday. Francisco J. Grevi, 49, pleaded guilty to a felony count of first-degree reckless endangerment in full satisfaction of charges pending against him.
GEIS workshops planned in Otsego
COOPERSTOWN - Three workshops have been scheduled to allow the public to participate in a generic environmental impact statement being prepared for northern Otsego County municipalities, according to Nan Stolzenburg, a consultant to the project.
Tuesday, October 24, 2000
Officials: Publicizing probe might mislead
Local nursing home administrators said they are concerned the state's decision to publicize inspection results may mislead potential nursing home residents.
Earlier this month, the state began publicly releasing the results of its annual nursing home inspections. The results, which will be released each month, reported at least a "potential for harm" at 43 of the 49 facilities inspected in July 2000.
New DWI law praised locally
Local law enforcement officials said they support the bill signed into law by President Clinton on Monday that imposes a stricter national standard for drunken driving. "It's going to save lives somewhere along the line," Otsego County Sheriff Donald Mundy said.
Walton mom discovers she has the `write' stuff
WALTON — A New Year's resolution to make a dream come true worked for Traci Vandermark.
Vandermark, of Walton, has wanted to be a writer since a high school English teacher inspired her, but it took 20 years to make the dream a reality. "On Jan. 1, I made a promise to myself," Vandermark said. "I decided I was going to do it. I would submit as many pieces as I could to a wide variety of publications each week until I got published.
Red Sleigh items for sale
SPRINGFIELD - The contents of The Red Sleigh restaurant on state Route 80 in Springfield will be auctioned off beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday.
"We're selling basically everything except the light fixtures," said Sandy Seamon, fiancee of owner Matthew Handler. The restaurant and a house on the property already have been sold, she said.
School head to leave SCS
SIDNEY — Sidney Elementary School Principal Jerry Rhodes will be leaving the district after five years to take a job closer to his Owego home.
Rhodes' decision to leave to become principal at Newark Valley High School was surprise, said Sidney Superintendent Dominic Nuciforo.
Sidney man tries to put best face on Halloween
SIDNEY — While Cinderella rode to the ball in a pumpkin, Gene Herman drives to the grocery store in a car he calls "the happy pumpkin."
The Sidney resident has referred to his recent cars by that same title, which he said is only fitting — not because they are orange, and not because they are shaped like gourds. No, he explained, it's because "pumpkins paid for them."
Counties try to make polls accessible
With Election Day rapidly approaching, town officials in Delaware and Schoharie counties are scrambling to make sure all polling places are handicapped-accessible.
County officials said they believe they have now complied with the federal Americans with Disability Act and the state Uniform Fire and Building Code requirements.
Bellinger isn't area's only hometown baseball hero
It's "Fall Classic" time. Even better, for the first time in 44 years, it's a "Subway Series." For the past two seasons, Oneonta area residents have been following the career of Clay Bellinger, with the Yankees.
Yankees, Mets fans face off at local bars
ONEONTA — Fingering a shot glass filled with orange liqueur, Chris Canova said he'll be ill by the time the World Series is over if all the games are like the first one.
"I'll have a heart attack if the whole series is like the game last night," Canova said Sunday, as he sat at the bar of the Sip & Sail Tavern on Water Street in Oneonta.
Jeanne Handler Memorial Walk sees record turnout
COOPERSTOWN — The fourth annual Jeanne Handler Memorial Walk drew a record number of participants to raise money for breast cancer research.
More than 200 people participated in the walk under sunny skies and in unseasonably warm weather. The event began at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown at 10 a.m., and proceeded for about one hour through the village streets.
Family works together to run cider mill
SCHENEVUS — Theresa Clements poured the golden brown cider into a tiny paper cup and raised it to her lips. "It's the lazy man's apple," she said. "You don't even have to chew."
At Willy's Farm and Cider Mill in Schenevus, "corn-ball humor," as Theresa called it, is just part of the experience.
City praised for efforts to comply with ADA
The city of Oneonta has been making last-minute adjustments to two of its polling sites to be in compliance by Election Day, Nov. 7.
In recent months, the city has either upgraded or, in several cases, moved a number of its polling places in order to meet federal Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
LWV to offer forum on how to vote wisely
ONEONTA — Vote Smart, an open discussion on how to choose a candidate for public office, will be offered by the League of Women Voters of the Oneonta Area at the First United Methodist Church on the corner of Church and Chestnut streets in Oneonta at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Saturday, October 21, 2000
Heating oil costs fueling local wood sales
With oil prices rising during the last year, John Wright decided to start selling firewood again this fall.
Wright, a West Laurens dairy farmer, sold wood during the 1970s but stopped in the 1980s when prices dropped to $20 or $25 for one-third of a cord, known as a face cord.
Some SUCO students opting not to vote
ONEONTA — Between bites of a Mexican concoction in the Hunt Union snack bar, State University College at Oneonta senior Eric Glaser said he doesn't plan to vote in this fall's presidential election.
Building to help pupils keep cool and stay warm
NEW BERLIN - Where is there a large building that's warm in winter, cool in summer and doesn't break the bank? Soon, the answer may be Unadilla Valley Central School's new campus.
Crash's ending mixed
This is a happy/sad tale about a little dog that was found and a man who is still hospitalized in critical condition. Last week, on Oct. 10, a two-vehicle collision in Stamford critically injured Richard Vanderwerker, 59, of Schenevus. After being taken to O'Connor Hospital in Delhi, Vanderwerker was transferred by helicopter to Albany Medical Center.
Child abuse cases up
COOPERSTOWN - Just a few days after convicting a town of Butternuts man of sexually abusing a child, the Otsego County District Attorney's Office will prosecute another man on similar charges.
Troopers seek new home
Margaretville officials don't want the state police to leave town, but troopers need a newer, larger facility and said they would like to be more centrally located.
Local family to make big-screen appearance
ONEONTA — Four-year-old Mason Depperman of Oneonta will be eight stories tall and towering over Times Square this weekend.
The National Down Syndrome Society selected a photo of Mason and his family to appear in a video montage that will be broadcast on the largest video screen in the world on Sunday.
Friday, October 20, 2000
Medicare main issue for seniors
ONEONTA — Clinton fatigue? Not here.
"The only thing with him, the media picked up his private life, which has nothing do with running the country," said Oneonta resident Joseph Muehl, 71, one of about two dozen seniors gathered Thursday afternoon to meet an AARP voter-education bus at the Elm Park United Methodist Church on Chestnut Street.
Opera group sings couple's praises
ONEONTA — A city of Oneonta couple have been recognized by the Opera Guilds International for their volunteer efforts with the Glimmerglass Opera Guild in Cooperstown.
Glimmerglass guild members Richard and Harriett Johnson have been honored by the international organization with a 2000 Partners in Excellence Award, which recognizes those individuals or groups that demonstrate extraordinary volunteer service to opera in their communities.
Otsego judge hopefuls say they are enjoying campaign
ONEONTA - Otsego County and Family Court judicial candidates Brian Burns and Kelley Eckmair say their campaigns are going well a week before they're scheduled to meet in a debate sponsored by the League of Women Voters of the Oneonta Area.
Unopposed Republicans tap funds to help others
ALBANY — State Democrats have been boasting for more than a year that Rockland County Sen. Tom Morahan is vulnerable.
But weeks before Election Day, Nov. 7, those same party leaders have allowed his challenger's campaign to wallow in apparent poverty.
And as Senate Republicans sound outwardly confident they'll hold onto their 36 seats and the majority, their own campaign spending patterns say otherwise.
`Muscle car' exhibit to open
NORWICH — A new exhibit featuring nearly two dozen "muscle cars" will open at the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich on Saturday.
Oneonta OK's code on trash
Oneonta — Two new ordinances dealing with garbage compliance and nonresidential and vacant residential buildings have been added to the books in the city of Oneonta, city officials said.
The Common Council this week put its stamp of approval on both ordinances, which originated in the council's Intergovernmental Affairs Committee.
New law makes saving for college easier
ALBANY — Gov. George Pataki has signed into law a bill improving New York's college savings plan, offering a broader range of investments and making it easier for married couples to benefit from a $10,000 tuition tax write-off.
Police investigate thefts in Oneonta
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police are investigating a burglary that took place at a local restaurant late last week. Officers responded to a burglar alarm at about 1 a.m. Oct. 13 at The Depot restaurant on Railroad Avenue and found that a safe was missing. It was later found intact, not far from the scene, police said.
Principal refuses to elaborate on class-size issue
ONEONTA — After telling the Board of Education that class sizes of 19 in kindergarten through second grade should be more than just "a goal," Oneonta elementary school Principal Tim Gracy declined to elaborate on his comments a day later.
Sidney village to celebrate housing, sidewalk upgrades
SIDNEY — There will be two ribbon-cutting ceremonies in the village of Sidney today.
State Sen. John J. Bonacic, R-Mount Hope, who helped obtain funding for the apartment complex and for rebuilding a section of village sidewalk where the events will take place, is scheduled to appear at both.
Man convicted of sexually abusing child
COOPERSTOWN - A Butternuts man was convicted in Otsego County Court on Thursday of first-degree sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child, his 3-year-old daughter.
SUCO releases survey results
ONEONTA — The State University College at Oneonta conducts surveys of its alumni a year after graduation. Results from the class of 1998 survey reveal strong figures in employment and in ratings of the college, SUCO officials said.
Thursday, October 19, 2000
Holidays arriving in stores
ONEONTA — Leaving Southside Mall on Wednesday afternoon, Marcia Wood said she thought area stores were displaying their Christmas wares too early.
"I don't think they should till after Halloween — maybe the first or second week in November," the Oneonta resident said. With Christmas apparently arriving sooner each year, Wood said, the holidays are beginning to run together.
Women continue tasty tradition
SIDNEY — The aroma of corn syrup and boiling sugar is much stronger than 50 years of memories.
But that is at least how long the United Methodist Women of Sidney have been making peanut brittle to support mission projects around the world.
Board to review reconfiguration
ONEONTA — The Oneonta City School Board is poised to decide whether the district should add sixth grade to its seventh-through-eighth-grade middle school, a decision that would affect the district for years to come.
Reps hear plea to hire ag specialist
COOPERSTOWN - A number of people lobbying for various causes filled the board room Wednesday evening during an informative meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Walton man misses court
SIDNEY — A bench warrant was issued and then withdrawn for the arrest of Chad Scott, 19, of Walton, after he failed to appear at a pre-trial hearing scheduled for 6:15 p.m. Wednesday in the Sidney Village Court before Judge Dennis E. Martin.
Habitat plans to build home in city
ONEONTA — Habitat For Humanity of Otsego County has planned one of its next building projects to be located in the city of Oneonta's Sixth Ward.
Officials for the not-for-profit organization said the double lot at 6-8 Meckley Ave. will be perfect for the home they hope to start building sometime next year.
Walton man charged with child endangerment
WALTON — A Delhi mother said she wants a church lay minister who allegedly assaulted her 9-year-old son punished. On Oct. 4, Michael R. Crabtree, 33, of Walton, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and third-degree assault, both misdemeanors, according to Walton police.
Programs look to boost enrollment
ONEONTA — If there's one way to keep kids out of trouble, it's giving them something to do after school, said Keith Kreger, manager of the Oneonta City School District's $2.7 million after-school grant program.
Magee, challenger build up war chests for race
ALBANY — The man looking to take the 111th state Assembly District seat away from Democrat Bill Magee has inflated his campaign war chest more than six-fold since July.
Oneonta decides to drop horse law
WEST ONEONTA — The Oneonta Town Board has scrapped a proposed law that would have restricted horse and cattle ownership to those who owned a minimum of 5 acres of land, town Supervisor Duncan Davie said Wednesday.
Wednesday, October 18, 2000
`Angels' rescue couple after boating mishap
A family of Good Samaritans rescued a retired couple whose boat capsized and left them stranded Saturday on Goodyear Lake. "They're our angels," Rosalie James said, choking back tears. "They were great." She and her husband, Winfield, were thrown off their 16-foot boat at about 5 p.m. Saturday during a leisurely ride around the lake, she said.
Local opinion remains divided
Few people may have changed their minds after watching Tuesday's final presidential debate, but with the election only 20 days away and Democrat Al Gore and Republican George W. Bush neck-and-neck, those few may make the difference.
Two sentenced to prison on drug charges
DELHI — Two Arkville residents who were arrested in a drug sweep on Aug. 1 were sentenced Monday in Delaware County Court on reduced charges of selling drugs.
Man jailed in fatal crash
DELHI — A Livingston Manor man was sentenced Monday in Delaware County Court on felony charges stemming from a fatal car accident.
Ronald B. Klein, 30, pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree vehicular homicide, one count of second-degree vehicular assault and a misdemeanor charge of driving while intoxicated.
Political comedy group to perform at Hartwick College gym tonight
The Capitol Steps comedy troupe, as the story goes, formed in 1981 when three staffers for a U.S. senator were planning a Christmas party.
They had written a couple of tunes and wanted to do a nativity play, but they couldn't find three wise men and a virgin in Congress.
Walton man to be in Sidney court today
SIDNEY — A former state high school wrestling star who was suspended from college for an alleged assault on an Asian-American student will be in court today to answer his latest assault charge.
Groundbreaking set for addition
Groundbreaking will begin today at the Northern Catskills Occupational Center in Grand Gorge as part of the $10.5 million ONC-BOCES capital project that voters in 19 school districts approved last May.
Council honors organization
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta Common Council recognized the Planned Parenthood Association of Delaware and Otsego Counties at its meeting Tuesday.
Ethiopian minister to speak of faith
ONEONTA — He appears travel-weary from a monthlong tour of upstate New York, but the Rev. Teferi Barkessa of Ethiopia says he is eager to share his country's vision of the Presbyterian faith with the Oneonta community.
SUCO plans events
ONEONTA — Hundreds of alumni, parents, family members and friends will visit the State University College at Oneonta for Homecoming/Family Weekend starting Thursday.
Tuesday, October 17, 2000
Signs vanish from lawns across area
COOPERSTOWN - Where have all the "Hillary" signs gone?
Local Democrats say the blue, white and red signs are being snatched off lawns and roadsides. Removing Hillary Clinton's signs, they say, is worse than a prank; it's an attempt to muzzle freedom of expression.
Oneonta physician earns honor for community work
Dr. Benjamin Friedell wears a lot of hats: physician, school board member and public-health advocate, to name a few. For his contributions to the health and well-being of the community, Friedell will be recognized Thursday by the Otsego County Health Planning Advisory Council, a group of county health and social services leaders.
Post office seeks home
FRANKLIN — While Franklin residents wait to hear about a new post office being planned for the area, community leaders said they look forward to working with postal officials to keep the facility located in the village, if possible.
Sidney board delays decision
SIDNEY — A decision on the future of Sidney's Sherwood Heights section has been delayed until next month. During its regular meeting Monday, the Sidney Village Board decided to wait to make a decision until Nov. 27.
Oneonta clothing factory reopens for business
ONEONTA —An Oneonta clothing manufacturer is back in business after a court order had forced it to close last month. In a victory for Equissentials Inc., a federal court judge on Thursday denied a motion that would have prevented owner Joseph Creighton from manufacturing equestrian apparel.
Monday, October 16, 2000
Some parents are still starting over
Denise Dougherty was never able to have children of her own, but she has been parenting for most of her life and now she is once again raising a family.
Denise, 48, and her husband, Sam, 49, are both disabled. She permanently injured her leg in an accident and is a cancer survivor and Sam recently developed a serious heart condition.
Programs offer help to parenting grandparents
Grandparents raising grandchildren is not a new concept, but during the last decade the percentage of children being raised by grandparents has increased at a staggering rate.
The U. S. Census Bureau reports that 5.4 million children live in households maintained by grandparents or other relatives.
Firefighters in Sidney honor 75-year memebers
In the days when fire wagons were being pulled by horses, Sidney fireman Frank Birdsall was beginning as a volunteer with the McDonald Hose Co. Seventy-five years later, he is still serving his community.
Walkers raise thousands to fight hunger
The combination of good weather and a good cause brought hundreds of people of all ages out to the streets to fight hunger on Sunday.
Several communities in the area sponsored CROP walks in to provide food for those in need. This is the 23rd year for the Oneonta CROP Walk, said event co-chairman Bill Whitaker.
Fewer hunters, milder winters cause deer overpopulation
Edith Wilk suspected mischievous college students when she took her dog outside two weeks ago and saw her heavy, wooden patio furniture in disarray.
She called the police and filed a report. Things seemed to settle down until the next night, when she woke up to her barking dog at 3:30 a.m., she said.
Saturday, October 14, 2000
End of an era for Oneonta dairy farmers
ONEONTA - After more than a half-century of sending milk to market, the Henderson brothers of Oneonta sold their cows Friday.
"It's not like we're dying," said Hugh Henderson, 63, "but my knees ache and my brother's legs are sore and it's just time for a change."
Colleagues will `roast' newly retired teachers
OTEGO — Together they have logged more than 60 years of teaching time for the Unatego Central School District, and together they will be honored for it.
A retirement dinner and subsequent good-natured roast for Unatego teachers Marion Butts and Dan Wickham will be held Saturday at the State University College at Oneonta's Morris Hall. Close to 100 friends and co-workers are scheduled to attend.
Three accidents leave four hurt
Four area residents were injured in three separate car accidents Friday.
Two Oneonta women were hurt in a two-car accident near the intersection of state Route 28 and state Route 357 in the town of Franklin, state police at Oneonta said.
Alleged murderer re-arraigned
NORWICH — Xavier Lee Valentine, the murder suspect who briefly escaped from the Otsego County jail last month, was arraigned again on felony charges Friday in Chenango County Court after some legal maneuvering forced a grand jury to re-indict him.
Otsego's garbage problem lives on
COOPERSTOWN - The acronyms have attacked again: For 2001, MOSA has set Otsego County's GAT at 37,206 tons.
This means next year Otsego County is required to produce 5,174 more tons of solid waste than this year's guaranteed annual tonnage figure of 32,032 tons.
Some prize campaign items
COOPERSTOWN - With the political season reaching its peak, signs are appearing on lawns and buttons on lapels: Gore-Lieberman, Bush-Cheney, Nader-LaDuke.
Many of these articles are given away; others are inexpensive. But in coming years, they may appreciate, some greatly, depending on the candidates' fortunes.
Friday, October 13, 2000
Exam results worry schools
About half of area eighth-graders failed New York's English and math tests given in May, but the numbers are better than statewide averages, according to data released by the state Education Department on Thursday. The figures show the region's fourth-graders also surpassed their state counterparts on math tests, with a quarter falling below required standards compared to 35 percent statewide.
Rotary Club to help Franklin cemetery rest neatly
Fred Miller ruffled some feathers this summer when he complained about the town of Franklin's failure to maintain a nearly 200-year-old cemetery on state Route 357.
Now it appears the problem has come to an amicable resolution.
Schenevus crash victim still critical
STAMFORD — A Schenevus man remains in critical condition after a Tuesday-morning accident in Stamford, officials said, and the dog that was in his truck with him is still missing.
Area communities to help combat hunger
ONEONTA — Area communities are making last-minute preparations for this Sunday's CROP Walk events to raise money for hunger, both locally and internationally.
Man donates kidney to daughter
AFTON — As Afton resident Robin Lee watched his daughter, Crystal, suffer through the effects of lupus, there was little he said he thought he could do to help her.
Project puts old cell phones to use
ONEONTA — A national domestic violence program that offers victims free use of cellular phones has arrived in Otsego County.
Locals plan Cuban travel
ALBANY — About 150 state lawmakers, educators, including three local administrators, and others are headed to communist Cuba on what's being billed as a higher education fact-finding mission. But many of those listed for the trip have little or nothing to do with education.
Kortright survey to assist in comprehensive plan
KORTRIGHT — Kortright residents are invited to a meeting to review the results of a taxpayer survey designed to help plan the future of the town.
Kortright Supervisor Don Kerr announced that there would be a public meeting at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, at the Bloomville Fire Station to review the results of the community opinion survey, which was sent to all resident taxpayers.
Thursday, October 12, 2000
Delhi Tech students keep banquet cooking
DELHI — The fall semester started with a bang, or make that a banquet, for culinary students at the State University College of Technology at Delhi.
Just five days after the students arrived on campus, 50 members of the culinary class orchestrated an outdoor event for 1,000 people.
Springfield could get baseball camp
SPRINGFIELD - A Rockland County lawyer plans to build a youth baseball camp on 80 acres in the town of Springfield, now home to the Diamond Tee driving range.
Victor Alfieri, who lives in Congers and serves as Clarkstown town justice, examined the site on Route 31 near Briar Hill Road last Thursday and discussed his plans with Fly Creek engineer Bernard J. O'Neill.
Group considers preserving local historic bridge
WELLS BRIDGE — Efforts by a Wells Bridge committee to have a bridge, which spans the Susquehanna River in the hamlet, placed onto the Historic Register have been delayed while the costs of such a listing are explored.
No grant for Otsego study
COOPERSTOWN - The state has turned down Otsego County's request for $44,500 to fund an intermunicipal study of Otsego County towns, according to Diane Carlton, Otsego's planning director.
Funds to help combat
Local heath department officials said they are happy to hear that President Clinton has declared an emergency in New York state due to the West Nile virus.
Unatego teachers protest lack of contract
WELLS BRIDGE — Wearing buttons on their black T-shirts and holding protest signs, dozens of Unatego teachers demonstrated in front of the junior-senior high school Wednesday night to show their dissatisfaction with the status of contract negotiations.
Police probe burglaries
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police are continuing their investigation into a reported burglary on Chestnut Street. Almost $1,000 in electronic equipment was reportedly stolen from an apartment on Chestnut Street between 7:30 p.m. Sept. 24 and 7:30 a.m. Sept. 25, police said.
Oneonta targets police openings
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta Police Department is still looking for a few good men, and women, to fill its roster of officers.
Trustees' gifts boost Hartwick fund drive
ONEONTA — Hartwick College's bicentennial fund-raising campaign has been so successful that the board of trustees extended it until 2003 and upped the ante by $8 million Friday, the college announced.
Region takes snowfall in stride
ONEONTA — Ruby Rogan said she wasn't too thrilled about what was falling from the sky when she woke up and peered out the window Tuesday morning.
A rare early-October snowfall spread a thin blanket of snow across the area Tuesday, dropping accumulations of up to half an inch in parts of Delaware County, according to local weather observers.
Justices to hear Milford case
Milford Central School just became ground zero in the national debate over religion in public schools.
The Supreme Court decided Tuesday to hear the appeal of a Christian youth group challenging a school policy that prohibits its members from meeting in the building.
Pay increases OK'd
NORWICH — A resolution concerning pay raises for non-union county personnel sent the Chenango Board of Supervisors into executive session for 40 minutes Tuesday.
Delaware judge gives stiff sentence
DELHI — A Bloomville man got a stiff sentence for repeated drunken-driving convictions, and a Delhi man was granted youthful-offender status on burglary and escape charges — but was given a stiff warning — during sessions Tuesday in Delaware County Court.
Drogen's expands; restaurant to hold grand opening tonight
Retailer Arnie Drogen's been busy the last couple of weeks.
After opening a store in Vestal on Sept. 29, Drogen opened a new wholesale electric shop last week at the former Paragon Trade Brands building on River Street in Oneonta.
Challenger aims to return to Republican tradition in Assembly
State Assembly candidate G. James Traub said his Republican partnership campaign theme remains the focal point of his bid to unseat Democratic incumbent Bill Magee for the 111th District seat.
Board can't vote on motel proposal
HARTWICK - The Hartwick Planning Board was unable to vote Tuesday evening on a proposal to build a 72-unit Holiday Express Motel because last week's Otsego County Planning Board vote against the project has been adjudged invalid.
Oneonta woman finds roots in Belarus
A grueling schedule, cold hotel rooms and strange food didn't phase an 85-year-old Oneonta woman who traveled to Minsk in Belarus to help CitiHope International distribute medication and educational materials to hospitals and schools.
Voters may lose with pre-printed registration forms
COOPERSTOWN - The New York Republican State Committee went a step too far with the voter registration forms that it distributed this fall, according to local political party spokesmen.
Tuesday, October 10, 2000
Stores toughen tobacco policies
ONEONTA — Linda Curtin, deli manager at the Red Apple convenience store in Oneonta, said the store's new policy about checking the identification for almost all tobacco purchasers is tough on the clerks.
Change makes owners adapt
ONEONTA — For Smoker Friendly owner Steve White, New York state's regulation of tobacco has caused him to do more than ensure his employees are checking IDs.
Award to help couple build upon recognition
COOPERSTOWN - A husband-and-wife team of architects from Cooperstown will be honored Friday by the American Institute of Architects for two buildings they designed in this area.
Oneonta meeting times challenged
ONEONTA — The Oneonta League of Women Voters wants to see city government running in accordance with the city charter.
Delhi business group has plan to fill vacant storefronts on Main Street
DELHI — A group of Delhi businessmen has a plan to fill the empty storefronts that line Main Street.
The plan involves buying a building where new niche businesses would be given low rent, legal and accounting support and access to copy and facsimile machines.
Jeter goes to bat for Sidney youth
At 14, Cody Carey is a lot like other teen-agers. He goes to school, plays video games and likes to eat fast food, preferably at Wendy's.
In the last year, he's become a baseball fan. Or more specifically, a Derek Jeter fan.
When Cody had to write an essay about an influential person in his life, he chose Jeter.
Counties will get disaster funding
ALBANY — Chenango, Otsego and Schoharie counties are among 67 municipalities throughout the state that will be receiving federal disaster aid in connection with storms that hammered parts of New York earlier this year.
Local schools mourn loss of art teacher
Two schools are mourning the loss of a popular art teacher today after she died in a weekend car accident in which three other people were seriously injured, one of them a 4-year-old boy.
Monday, October 9, 2000
OHS student's work earns honor
ONEONTA — Ian Austin makes a statement when he creates a work of art. And Columbia University has heard him. Austin, 17, recently became the first Oneonta High School student to win individual acknowledgment from Columbia's Scholastic Press Organization.
Local registration grows
COOPERSTOWN - More people than ever are registered to vote locally and throughout New York state, but that doesn't necessarily mean voter turnout will be up. In recent years, a declining percentage of registered voters actually has cast ballots.
Outdoor education program receives grant
DELHI — The Catskill Outdoor Education Corps will be in business for the next three years, thanks to a $836,000 AmeriCorps grant.
This is the second three-year grant received by the State University College of Technology at Delhi to support the COEC and to develop the outdoor educational center on state Route 28 in Delhi.
Chenango United Way launches annual drive
NORWICH — The Chenango Board of Supervisors will give its support to the county's United Way campaign during its meeting Tuesday.
The Chenango United Way is beginning its annual campaign, said Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco, with a goal of $515,000. The campaign will run through Nov. 17.
Former city mayor tuned in to game show craze
The new TV season has begun. We survived the summer with "Survivor." Regis is back with the "Millionaire" show. Game shows and "reality" programs have made an amazing revival in 1999/2000.
Saturday, October 7, 2000
Scarecrows still enjoy warm Walton welcome
WALTON — As bands of autumn color begin to creep along the hillsides, Walton's silent visitors return by the hundreds.
They spend the fall season perched on porches, propped against fences, seated in lawn chairs, supported by trees or peering out from store windows.
Passers-by stop and stare, but not even the crows register fear when Walton's famous scarecrows appear throughout the village.
Walton is the undisputed "Scarecrow Capital of the World," according to Alma Lynch, president of the Walton Chamber of Commerce.
Autumn's blazing colors please residents, visitors
Julie Markert, a Downsville native who lived in Arizona for five years, said she realized the beauty of the autumn leaves when she returned home 15 years ago.
"Right now the trees are starting to show their brilliant colors," Markert said as she looked out of the windows of the Old Schoolhouse Inn and Restaurant in Downsville, which she owns with her husband. "But the best is yet to come."
Locally, observers say ouster's a step forward
Mentor Seradaj, a native of the Eastern European country of Albania, said he knows what it was like to live under the regime of former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic.
"It was horrible," said Seradaj, now a sophomore at Hartwick College. "It was horrible before Milosevic, but it got worse when he got in power," he said in a phone interview Friday, adding, "He took all our rights in 1989."
AG elects not to study recall
ALBANY — The top legal officials from 40 states have banded together for action against Firestone and Ford, but New York's are not among them.
Community to mark anniversary
EDMESTON - Pathfinder Village, a community for people with Down syndrome, will celebrate its 20th anniversary Saturday with activities at its campus on state Route 80 in Edmeston.
Residents participate in protests
COOPERSTOWN - While much of America was home last Tuesday night, watching baseball or the presidential debate on television, Martha Clarvoe of Hartwick was in Boston, protesting the lack of third-party participation in the debate.
Demonstrators took issue with the exclusion of two candidates, the Green Party's Ralph Nader and the Independence Party's Pat Buchanan.
"I went because I think it's an outrage we aren't allowed to listen to all the candidates," said Clarvoe, former president of the League of Women Voters of the Cooperstown Area. "We should be allowed to compare them, hear them ask each other questions, but it seems they're afraid to let Nader speak."
Sidney man will receive military honor after all
The story of John Gallagher, a Sidney man whose naval unit did not receive the Army's Presidential Unit Citation for its work during the D-Day landings in 1944, had a happy ending.
Friday, October 6, 2000
Blaze ruins home
LAURENS — Tears and flakes of ash fell amidst a steady rain Thursday afternoon as a town of Laurens couple helplessly watched their home on county Route 11 go up in flames.
Volunteers from seven area fire departments battled the noontime blaze that heavily damaged the two-family, wooden-frame home tucked behind a cluster of trees just across the road from the Laurens Cemetery.
Pittsfield man grows giant gourd
BURLINGTON FLATS - Two of John Elliott's three big pumpkins have stopped growing, but his hopes are pinned to "Sunny," a squat behemoth at the end of the garden.
"I measured it Thursday, then again on Sunday and didn't notice much difference, but I hope it's still growing a little," said Elliott, who lives in Pittsfield and grows pumpkins at his in-laws' farm on state Route 51 in Burlington.
Quarrymen push support of changing law
Quarrymen in Delaware County are working to rally support to change restrictive legislation they said threatens the bluestone industry and their livelihoods.
Boehlert wants investigation into milk prices
The gap between retail milk prices and the prices on the farm has caught the attention of a group of U.S. congressmen. Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, and 34 other legislators asked the federal Justice Department on Thursday "to begin an immediate investigation into possible market abuses by the dairy processing and retail marketing industries."
CMH, nurses seek contract
NORWICH — Nurses at Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich will be taking their frustrations over the lack of a contract to the public Saturday.
Members of the nearly 80-member union will hand out leaflets explaining their position at the Tops Market on East Main Street from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Thursday, October 5, 2000
Oneonta abodes garner awards
ONEONTA — Geneva blue, shaded clematis and billiard highlights.
These happen to be the fancy paint names for the subtle shades of blue, purple and green that grace the exterior of the house at 6 Maple St., one of two city of Oneonta homes that won the Most Improved Award in this year's Properties of Merit Competition.
Science editor tours SUCO, speaks to students
ONEONTA — A presentation on global warming kicked off the State University College at Oneonta's lecture series on environmental thought and education Wednesday.
County planners deny motel idea
COOPERSTOWN - By a 4-1 vote Tuesday evening, the Otsego County Planning Board declined to approve plans to build a 72-unit Holiday Express Motel on state Route 28 in the town of Hartwick.
290 Chestnut St., training rules set to go before voters
ONEONTA — The future of 290 Chestnut St. and the Oneonta City School District's athletic training rules rest in the hands of voters now. At their regular meeting Wednesday night, school board members unanimously approved a resolution to hold a Nov. 28 referendum for the sale of "290" to an Oneonta couple.
Town budget calls for no tax rate hike
WEST ONEONTA — Oneonta Town Supervisor Duncan S. Davie on Wednesday proposed a 2001 general expenses and highway budget that has no increase in the tax rate.
EPA to excavate Butternuts landfill
BUTTERNUTS — The federal Environmental Protection Agency said Tuesday it will excavate hazardous substances from the Butternuts landfill.
SUCO aims to get students to participate in elections
ONEONTA — Billy Gardner is registered to vote. He picked up a form in a dining hall at the State University College at Oneonta, filled it out and the school mailed it for him.
Wednesday, October 4, 2000
Members help Sidney garden club flourish
SIDNEY — There are books and magazines that explain how to make flowers bloom. And the right amount of Miracle-Gro has been known to work wonders. But nowhere is it written how to make a garden club flourish. The Hill & Valley Garden Club of Sidney must have chanced upon the secret, though.
Debate doesn't change local voters' choices
Few prospective choices were changed Tuesday evening as local voters watched Vice President Al Gore and Texas Gov. George W. Bush debate in the first of three meetings sponsored by the Presidential Debate Commission.
Milford case could reach high court
After two defeats, a Christian youth group is appealing to the Supreme Court for the right to hold meetings at Milford Central School. The nation's top judges may decide this week whether to hear the potentially explosive case.
Boards under fire again
ONEONTA — Controversy has flared again over the meeting schedule for the city Common Council's Public Safety Board.
Ice-rink issue to be on planners' agenda
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Town Planning Board will consider subdividing a state Route 7 property that could eventually be the site of a new ice rink.
Skatepark work moving ahead
ONEONTA — Work on the initial phase of the city's first skateboard park should be completed by November, skatepark organizers and construction officials said Tuesday.
Tuesday, October 3, 2000
Franklin woman strings youth ensemble together
ONEONTA — Sixth-grade cellist Carson Zagger said he joined the Little Delaware String Ensemble because he wanted an opportunity to play with other string players.
"This really isn't much of a string city," said Zagger, 11, a student at Center Street Elementary School in Oneonta.
ADA resigns after probe into private practice
DELHI — A Delaware County lawyer who could lose his license to practice will no longer serve as an assistant district attorney.
Delaware County District Attorney Richard Northrup said Delaware County Chief Assistant District Attorney Patrick Cannon resigned from his position Friday.
Search for girl to get more help
LAURENS - The search for Brianna Winslow, 5, who has been missing from her home in Laurens since April 1998, will soon get a boost from two national organizations.
Church votes to give store to group
BOVINA CENTER — Russell's Store may once again become the hub of community activity in Bovina Center, thanks to the generosity of the Bovina Center Presbyterian Church.
Local hopefuls to hold televised discussions
ONEONTA - Otsego County judge candidates Brian Burns and Kelley Eckmair will meet in a televised debate Oct. 25 at the State University College at Oneonta.
Two plead guilty to drug-selling charges
DELHI — Two drug dealers changed their original innocent pleas to guilty in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Michael E. Paulini, 19, of the Bronx, was arrested June 27 on a charge of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.
Essay captures optimist's approach
ONEONTA — People are often prone to complain, but when someone really enjoys his life and takes the time to express those positive feelings, good things can and probably should happen.
Prison camp workers want health tests
State officials will perform more tests to determine how far environmental contamination at a prison camp in Schoharie County has spread.
Meanwhile, camp workers who say years of chemical exposure caused them health problems continue to be denied tests of their own.
Monday, October 2, 2000
Pit Run backer recalled at race
ONEONTA — With the sounding of the opening air horn, participants in this year's Pit Run exploded across the starting line on Sunday like a human tidal wave. Just 34 minutes later, underneath the early afternoon sun, the first of the participants started to cross the finish line in a steady stream.
Otsego looks to increase area's appeal
Rob Robinson's realistic about the type of businesses the county can attract.
"We're never going to be able to compete for the company that's going to put 400 or 500 jobs in one place," said Robinson, president and chief executive of the Otsego County Chamber.
Elementary students get lesson in retail sales
DELHI — A trail of paw prints pointed the way to Delaware Academy's Bulldog Bookstore, where lines formed at the door Friday morning, as customers eagerly awaited an opportunity to shop in Delhi's newest retail establishment.
Park land nixed for firehouse
UNADILLA — The Unadilla Village Board has decided not to pursue the use of park land as a way to enlarge the firehouse.
The board will look for an alternate, affordable location elsewhere in the village, Unadilla Mayor Ed Frazier said.
Broome judge nominated
Broome County Family Court Judge Joseph P. Hester Jr. was recently nominated at the Sixth District Judicial Convention of the Republican Party to fill the vacancy created by the expiring term of Supreme Court Justice Robert W. Coutant.
Rules change plan ready
After a year of review, the Oneonta City School District's policy committee has agreed on a new version of the training rules for student athletes.
Southside Mall eyes full house
ONEONTA — For the first time in a decade, it appears the Southside Mall will be full.
To that end, Bath & Body Works headlines a list of three new tenants scheduled to open during the next three months.
NYSEG makes offer to UW donors
The local United Way and a utility company have teamed up in this year's campaign to raise money for human service agencies.
Individual donors who pledge at least a dollar a week to the campaign for the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties may win up to $2,000 worth of energy, officials said.
