Student teacher crunch
It is becoming increasingly difficult to find spots for student teachers in New York and the emphasis on standardized testing is partly to blame, according to local educators.
"I don't see it getting better until it gets worse," said Dan Ticknor, coordinator of the Office of Education Advisement and Field Experience at the State University College at Oneonta.
SUCO places more than 350 students per year in student- teaching jobs all over the state. The college found positions for all its students this year, but the task is getting harder and harder to complete, Ticknor said.
Fed cut may help locally
The anticipated lowering of interest rates by the Federal Reserve would mean mostly good news for the area, local business professionals said Tuesday.
After Federal Reserve Board chairman Alan Greenspan announced last week that economic growth in the United States is probably "very close to zero," analysts speculated that the Fed would announce an interest cut of up to one half-point in the federal funds rate later today.
Apple picks SUCO professor for teaching award
ONEONTA — The Apple Computer company named college professor and Oneonta school board member Sven Anderson one of 50 "distinguished educators" in the U.S. and Canada for his innovative integration of technology in the classroom.
Business Beat: Developer sitting tight on hotel, restaurant plans
A year ago, Cathedral Inn owner Martin Patton was quick to propose an addition to his state Route 23 hotel and restaurant complex after Chicago White Sox Vice Chairman Eddie Einhorn announced plans to open his Cooperstown Baseball World in Oneonta.
At least two Delaware villages to have mayoral races
The terms of eight mayors in Delaware County's 11 villages end this year, but only five of the incumbents are seeking re-election and, thus far, only two villages have definite races.
Two villages in Delaware County held caucuses to determine candidates. The Republicans and Democrats in Stamford and Hancock both chose candidates Monday night.
School in India takes a step onto the Web
ONEONTA — An elementary school for the poorest children in India received Internet access earlier this month as part of the continuing charitable efforts of a local not-for-profit foundation.
Sex offender moves to area
WALTON - A convicted sex offender originally from Walton returned to his hometown this week.
Brian MacRabie, 20, a Level 3 sex offender under Megan's Law, has been placed in a county-owned home near the Delaware County Solid Waste Facility in Walton, according to Maj. Charles Newman of the Delaware County Sheriff's Department.
Officials: Convict living in Otego
Parents in the Unatego Central School district recently received letters notifying them that Glenn I. Pierce, a three-time convicted sex offender, was out of prison and living in Otego.
Pierce, 47, is classified as a high-risk Level 3 sex offender under Megan's Law. He has registered with authorities and listed his address as 342 Upper Green St., Otego.
Man accused of imprisonment
A former Sharon Springs coach is to appear in court next month on charges he made sexual advances toward a 17-year-old girl he was giving a ride home, the assistant district attorney for Schoharie County said Tuesday.
Tuesday, January 30, 2001
Oneonta emergencies up in 2000
ONEONTA — Motor vehicle accidents and fire calls kept Oneonta city firefighters busy in 2000, according to the department's year-end summary.
The fire department went to a total of 2,494 emergency situations last year, slightly up from 2,426 responses in 1999.
Poll: More faith needed
Local clergy and laypeople alike agree with the results of a recent poll that show Americans think children should be raised with religion and that society would benefit if more people were to become devout.
The recent poll was conducted by Public Agenda, a nonpartisan New York-based policy research agency.
OHS grad earns award from Polish university
ONEONTA — In the fall of 1996, Oneonta High School graduate Jeanine Masse left for Poland on a planned one-year Rotary exchange program.
Now, nearly five years later, Masse, 22, is still in Europe and just months away from earning an engineering degree from The Technical University of Lodz, Poland.
Man arraigned in 1999 BB gun rampage case
DELHI — A man who allegedly went on a 1999 shooting spree that caused $75,000 in damages was arraigned on 18 felonies charges in Delaware County Court on Monday.
'Grandma' pleads guilty in final drug case
DELHI — A plea bargain was reached Monday in the final case pending in Delaware County Court from a drug sweep on July 31 and Aug. 1.
During the early morning raid, which was planned and executed by the Delaware County Drug
Entrepreneur to seek $150,000 from IDA
The Otsego County Industrial Development Agency board will have a special meeting tonight to consider a $150,000 loan for a Cooperstown entrepreneur, according to the county economic developer.
The meeting is set for 6 p.m. in Otsego County's Oneonta office building at 242 Main St.
Man arraigned in forgery indictment
DELHI — A Trout Creek man was arraigned on a 16-count indictment in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Jason Lambrecht, 22, of Trout Creek, pleaded innocent to nine felony counts of forgery and seven counts of possession of a forged instrument.
Unadilla files to halt waste site
UNADILLA — The Unadilla Town Board has filed a counterclaim to prevent a solid waste transfer station from operating, town Attorney Albert E. Clune said Monday.
Monday, January 29, 2001
Giants fans find little reason to cheer during Super Bowl
OTEGO — Thank God for Aerosmith and those amusing Super Bowl commercials.
If it weren't for them, some local New York Giants football fans would have been seriously depressed after Sunday's championship football game with the Baltimore Ravens.
"They're lucky it's only 10-nothing," Otego resident Dave Zorda said as the Giants trailed at half-time.
Murder suspect's family questions speed of trial
COOPERSTOWN - Bruce Eckhardt, 54, who is accused of kidnapping and murdering Donna Evans of Westford in 1998, is slated to be tried in Otsego County Court starting May 14.
According to his nephew, Keith Eckhardt of Denver, Colo., that's not soon enough.
"Whatever happened to his right to a speedy trial?" Keith Eckhardt said Thursday. "It seems this has been dragging on forever."
Sidney High School students complete first school-to-work program
SIDNEY — Brian Innes is one of the first students to graduate from Sidney High School's school-to-work program. The senior, who plans to attend Old Dominion University to study finance, said he has found it a valuable experience.
Gifts help with personal victories
HAMDEN — It was business as usual in the cafeteria at the Delaware County ARC when three members of the New York State Corrections Officers and Police Benevolence Association stopped by on Wednesday.
Rescue pumper joins city fire department's fleet
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta Fire Department has a new fire truck.
The $327,300 Salisbury Rescue Pumper will replace the department's aging 1976 Ward LaFrance pumper truck, known as Engine No. 35.
Area farmers to open organic milk plant
MILFORD - From one end of the cow to the other, producing organic milk is just better, according to two farmers who are venturing into a new business.
The Cooperstown Cheese Company Inc. is opening soon north of Milford on state Route 28.
Two no-wake zones OK'd
COOPERSTOWN - A proposed 200-foot no-wake zone for Otsego Lake has been adopted by two of four municipalities that ring the lake, and the other two have scheduled public hearings on the matter for February.
Saturday, January 27, 2001
Study: Peer pressure worse for teen girls
ONEONTA — Jessica Cicoria, 13, an eighth-grader at Oneonta Middle School, said she thinks teen-age girls are more likely than teen-age boys to succumb to peer pressure to drink.
"I think it's because guys have a higher confidence level than girls do," she said.
A recently released federal study backs up Cicoria's belief, finding that teen girls are more easily swayed than their male counterparts by peer pressure to drink or smoke.
Dealer found guilty
A suspected drug dealer arrested last May in "Operation Crackdown" could face up to 30 years in federal prison for supplying crack-cocaine to other dealers in the Oneonta area, federal and local law enforcement officials said Friday.
Group honors longtime Upstate Homes official
MILFORD — Behind the main desk in the administration building at Upstate Homes For Children and Adults sits a woman who is looked upon as a treasure by her co-workers.
Eighty-seven-year-old Alice Loomis has worked there since 1971, first as a teacher and now as an assistant administrator who keeps three decades of knowledge about Upstate Homes inside her head.
"Alice is one of those people who knows everything," said Sharon Silber, assistant director of development for Upstate Homes.
Man had one hot jacket
A Walton man found himself in the wrong place at the right time and was astounded to discover fire raining down on him.
Charles Seaman recently stood outside the Walton Village Hall on North Street, passing the time of day with Herb Hood, when Hood noticed that Seaman had smoke coming from the back of his jacket.
Building of Spa clinic to begin
After raising a half-million dollars, Bassett Healthcare said it plans to begin construction on a new clinic in Richfield Springs this spring.
Vote to determine three fair directors
WALTON — A record-setting crowd is expected to attend the annual meeting of the Delaware Valley Agricultural Society in the Walton High School on Saturday.
The highlight of the meeting will be the election of three Delaware County Fair directors. There are four candidates vying for the three seats on the board.
United Way passes fund-raising target
The United Way of Otsego and Delaware Counties has exceeded its fund-raising goal of $320,000 for the 2000 campaign, the charity announced Friday.
Friday, January 26, 2001
Luck gets local couple to the Super Bowl
ONEONTA — Ruth King said she was stunned last week to receive a phone call informing her that she was the grand prize winner of a trip for two to the Super Bowl.
"I was kind of numb," King said.
With a retail value of $9,000, the prize includes round-trip air fare to Tampa, Fla., a five-day, four-night stay at a hotel, a rental car, a tour guide, an invitation to a private party with an NFL player in attendance — and, of course, two tickets to Super Bowl XXXV.
Firm gets permit back
A West Davenport auto salvage yard got its operating license back Wednesday night.
At a special meeting, the Davenport Town Board voted 4-0 to issue a license to Ray Canner, who operates Central Auto Salvage on county Route 11. Councilman David Carrington, who works at another salvage yard, abstained, town Supervisor Todd Rider said.
Chair seeks budget change
ONEONTA — Edward C. Sullivan, chairman of the state Assembly's Higher Education Committee for the last 14 years, announced Thursday he will propose changing the higher education budget to a five-year plan instead of one-year.
"I'm trying to get a rumble going here," Sullivan said.
Sullivan, D-Manhattan, is touring state colleges to outline his plan and gather input.
IRS: Town justice owes back taxes
The Internal Revenue Department has filed a $37,208 tax lien against a Middletown judge.
According to a document filed in the Delaware County Clerk's Office on Jan. 3, Glen R. and Jeanne E. George have unpaid balances on their tax assessment for three years.
Waste firm to seek support of county
COOPERSTOWN - An owner of Waste Recovery Enterprises said he plans to attend the next meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives to ask members not to sue his firm and the state Department of Environmental Conservation.
Crackles, well-known pony, dies
Maybe you remember him.
He attended birthday parties. He raised money for St. Mary's School on the Fourth of July. And he worked at a local stable.
In the end, though, the infirmities of old age finally caught up to Crackles, Maryann Hurtubise's erstwhile pony.
Thursday, January 25, 2001
Day honors school nurses
ONEONTA — Brianna Condon needs snow pants for recess. Drew Truscott comes in with a split lip. Brittany Schultis wants to brush her teeth. Ben Young waits for a ride home and, possibly, to the doctor.
In all, it's a busy day, but not an unusual one for Malissa MacDonald. One thing makes it special, though. The fourth Wednesday in January is National School Nurse Day.
"You know how I know?" MacDonald asked. "Mr. Gracy said, 'Happy School Nurse Day.' I thought he was kidding," she said, referring to school principal Tim Gracy.
Artifacts found at Meadows site
COOPERSTOWN - Archeologists have found evidence of ancient life on the 18.5-acre site where Otsego County officials propose building a $21.9 million nursing home.
During a preliminary investigation of the site last month, archeologists from the Public Archeology Facility at Binghamton University uncovered 24 prehistoric and 36 historic artifacts, according to a report filed with the county.
Soccer Hall snares state soccer tournament
ONEONTA — After a three-year hiatus, the state soccer tournament will return to Oneonta in 2002 and 2003.
Mike Andrew, the chairman of the state boys' soccer committee, said the committee decided late last year to bring the boys' tournament to the National Soccer Hall of Fame campus.
Area charities say holiday gifts generous
Donations and gifts of dolls and toys made this past holiday season stand out as particularly successful for many local charities, officials said.
According to Lt. Michael Knepp and Lt. Deborah Knepp, commanding officers, the Oneonta Salvation Army collected $40,471 in its Red Kettles last Christmas, an increase of almost $3,000 from 1999.
Delaware board recognizes role of blacks
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors unanimously supported a proclamation on Wednesday to recognize the part that African-Americans have played in the county's history and heritage.
Funds available for home repairs
ONEONTA — Homeowners in the city of Oneonta may be eligible for state funding for house repairs, officials have announced.
The city has contracted with Opportunities for Otsego to administrate the program that was originally funded in 1998 through the state's Division for Housing and Community Renewal.
Board decides to close school at Leonardsville
WEST WINFIELD - The Mount Markham Central Board of Education voted Tuesday to close its elementary school in Leonardsville.
At a meeting Tuesday night at the district high school, the board voted six-to-one to close the newly remodeled school at the end of this school year, according to a school secretary.
Winter festival to start today
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - The 29th annual Richfield Springs Winter Carnival, a two-weekend event sponsored by the Richfield Springs Lions Club, will begin today with a spaghetti dinner, starting at 5 p.m. at Richfield Springs Central School, according to Ralph Osterhoudt, a carnival co-chairman.
Wednesday, January 24, 2001
Regents chief visits Oneonta
As New York enters a crucial time in its effort to reform public education, schools must "stay the course" and keep the bar of student achievement raised, state education official Carl T. Hayden, chancellor of the Board of Regents, said during a daylong visit to Oneonta on Tuesday.
Hayden kicked off his day with a breakfast at the Oneonta Holiday Inn sponsored by the Otsego County Chamber.
Former Green state Senate hopeful dead at 84
The Rev. Roy Chamberlin, recent Green Party candidate for the 50th District state Senate seat occupied by incumbent James Seward, R-Milford, died Monday after a brief illness.
Chamberlin, 84, who lived on the Morris Turnpike, town of Pittsfield, had been recovering from a stroke sustained a few weeks after the election, according to his campaign manager, Earl Callahan of Guilford.
Local Chinese residents celebrate new year
Exit the dragon. Enter the snake. And "gung hay fat choy" to all.
Today marks the arrival of the Chinese New Year and with it came celebrations all over the world.
Ex-Walton athlete avoids jail
VESTAL — Chad Scott, 19, of Walton, received youthful offender status and a conditional discharge from the Vestal Town Court at his sentencing hearing Tuesday regarding his role in the beating of an Asian-American at Binghamton University last February.
Delaware board to consider wood for bridge
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors is expected to approve spending $52,822 to purchase wood for the rehabilitation of Fitch's Covered Bridge when they meet Wednesday.
Chamber has new employees
ONEONTA — On the heels of a successful year, the Otsego County Chamber has added two new staff members.
Shelly Giangrant, who started late last year, said she will work on providing benefits to current members and recruiting new ones.
Bookkeeper pleads guilty to fraud
A bookkeeper accused of stealing more than $1 million from Jett Industries, a Colliersville contractor, pleaded guilty Tuesday to bank and tax fraud charges filed by the federal government, according to Assistant United States Attorney Michael C. Olmsted.
At Masonville school, students have lessons on kindness, justice
MASONVILLE — Students at the Masonville Elementary School have been acting differently since the Kindness and Justice Challenge began Jan. 15 at the school to coincide with Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday.
Lawmakers pass package focused on women's health
ALBANY — The state's Republican-controlled Senate — long the main obstacle to mandating insurance coverage for birth control — passed a women's health package Tuesday that includes coverage for doctor-prescribed contraceptives.
Tuesday, January 23, 2001
More people seeking heating help locally
As the harsh winter drags on, thousands of New Yorkers will seek relief from the cold by applying for Home Energy Assistance Program grants.
The grants, awarded through New York state, are designed to help families deal with the rising costs of home heating fuel. And in this frigid winter, the number of applicants statewide has risen 40 percent compared to last year.
Charges against officer dropped
DELHI — The charges against a Delhi police officer who was accused of sending a series of threatening letters to a Hamden woman have been dismissed.
Delaware County District Attorney Richard Northrup said Hamden Town Justice Duane Merrill dismissed the charges because the paperwork filed in the case was insufficient.
Northrup said the alleged victim did not want the case to continue to trial.
Women's rights a global issue
ONEONTA — A woman's battle for reproductive rights took on a global perspective at Hartwick College on Monday night.
Defendants appear in Delaware court
DELHI - Todd M. Wormuth, 18, of 9 Main St., Deposit, was indicted by a Delaware County grand jury Monday for allegedly assaulting a 13-month-old child.
Judge sentences sex offenders
DELHI — Two other cases involving sexual offenses against children were heard in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Protestors, rain, excitement all part of student's trip
HARTWICK SEMINARY - The Rev. Paul Messner and a number of area high-school and college students were among thousands of Americans who went to Washington this weekend to witness the inauguration of George W. Bush as the nation's 43rd president.
Uncle throws a curve
COLUMBUS - Well, this time Uncle Chet threw me. We'd never agreed to, never even discussed, having Bruce come back to Chenango County with us.
Parents: Where is rapist?
A man convicted of raping two underage girls registered as a high-risk Level 3 sex offender in Otsego County on Monday.
Village board reviews plans for arts fest
SIDNEY — The Sidney village board received an update Monday on the planning for the Sidney Music and Arts Festival scheduled for Aug. 3-4.
Delaware man dedicated to county's covered bridges
DELHI — Delaware County's deputy commissioner of public works admits he's obsessed with covered bridges.
Phillip C. Pierce engineered the restoration of the Hamden Covered Bridge, which is in the final stages, and he has begun work on Fitch's Bridge in Delhi.
These guys really take the cake
ONEONTA — They came in all shapes and sizes, colors and flavors.
Twenty-nine cakes baked by Cub Scout Pack 27 in Oneonta were judged for theme and creativity, among other criteria, as part of the group's first Father/Son Bake-off held at Valleyview Elementary School on Friday.
"It's something fun that's beyond necessarily getting a badge for," said Lisa Meschutt. "It also promotes family-oriented activities and creativity."
Mom sued county, won $30G settlement
ONEONTA — Suzanne S. Hirsch, the Otego mother who recently found her son after his father abducted him 14 years ago, received a $30,000 settlement from the Otsego County Department of Social Services for its mishandling of a case in which the boy's father accused her of child abuse.
Former city civic leader dies at 81
Frances S. Waddington, a former political figure who broke barriers for women in local government, died Saturday. She was 81.
In 1975, Waddington became the first woman to be elected to the Otsego County Board of Representatives, where she represented District 11 until 1989.
Delaware DA's office, DEU win grant
DELHI — The Delaware County district attorney's office and the Delaware County Drug Enforcement Unit will be getting some new equipment, thanks to a $50,000 Aid to Prosecution Grant from the state Division of Criminal Justice Services.
Saturday, January 20, 2001
Hancock firefighters, Rotary work together to buy boat
HANCOCK — Excitement mounted Friday morning as members of the Hancock Fire Department and Emergency Squad and Hancock Rotary waited for the delivery of their new rescue airboat.
The East and West Branches of the Delaware River come together in Hancock to form the Delaware River. Roland "Boomer" Bojo Jr., Hancock fire chief, said recreational use of the river has increased dramatically during the last decade.
"We have a lot of second-home owners, this stretch of the river has gained a reputation as a premier fishing area and during the summer the river is full of canoes and kayaks," Bojo said. "When we got an emergency call on the river, we had to call Deposit or Walton for mutual aid."
Address changes causing some problems
Residents in rural areas of Delaware County are getting new addresses as the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services continues to prepare for the implementation of the 911 emergency communication system.
911 more than a year away
Although Delaware County addresses are changing in preparation for 911 emergency service, it is still a long way from being implemented, according to Delaware County Director of Emergency Services, Nelson Delameter.
"Although your 911 address may be in effect, the 911 system is not," Delameter said. "It's important that, in the event of an emergency, you continue to use your local seven-digit number for fire, police and EMS."
A trial that was a trial
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - For a moment, it seemed even God was watching over the burn barrel trial in Richfield Town Court this week.
Pair face prison terms
NORWICH — Two people charged for their roles in last summer's fatal shooting of a Norwich man have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms.
Proposal would give building night life
ONEONTA — A former downtown auto dealership may soon find a second life as a nightclub.
Ephron U. Rivera of Oneonta said he and his father plan to purchase the vacant Oneonta Sales Co. building on Market Street from owner Sidney Levine for $240,000 and convert it to a dance club and comedy cabaret.
Friday, January 19, 2001
Couple, teen return to Mass. after hearing
ONEONTA — Daniel and Rosemary Greene will head back to their home in Newbury, Mass., this weekend with their 16-year-old son, whom they abducted from his biological mother 14 years ago.
At their arraignment in Oneonta City Court on Thursday, the couple pleaded innocent to first-degree custodial interference charges relating to the 1987 abduction of Ryan Patrick Greene.
N. Berlin man honored for community service
NEW BERLIN — Bill King of New Berlin received the prestigious Dewitt Clinton Masonic Award for community service Tuesday at the Phoebus Lodge #82 in New Berlin.
And the award isn't given to just anybody.
Lodge Master Roger Chase said the award is not presented every year. A person has to show a great deal of leadership before he is considered as a recipient, he said.
Chamber elects officers, sets goals
The Otsego County Chamber announced the election of Sharon Oberriter, president of the Cooperstown Bat Co., as chairwoman of chamber's Board of Directors for 2001.
Forum set to consider Cooperstown area, future
FLY CREEK — A public workshop Wednesday will explore how residents, businesses and landowners in the greater Cooperstown area feel about their region, and what they envision it should be like in the future.
County to consider plan for $707,000 facility
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives is slated to vote Feb. 7 on a proposal to build a $707,000 materials-recycling facility in Oneonta, according to Roberta Puritz, who chairs the county's Solid Waste Committee.
District lacks specific plans
WEST WINFIELD - A committee investigating the idea of operating separate bus runs for older and younger students at the Mount Markham Central School presented its findings Tuesday, but it stopped short of making any recommendation, according to Dick Young, school superintendent.
Thursday, January 18, 2001
The same company with a new name
As of Jan. 1, anyone looking for the At-A-Glance building off state Route 8 in Sidney was no longer be able to find it. The manufacturing company officially changed its name to Mead Consumer and Office Products on that date. The Mead name was placed on the building, and all signage was changed Jan. 2, said Swain Conklin, director of human resources at the Sidney facility.
Trial solves little
ROSEBOOM - The DiPippos and the Petersons left the Roseboom burn-barrel trial Tuesday night as far apart as they were at the start.
The DiPippos, who were acquitted in Richfield Town Court of violating a state burn-barrel law, said they hope their lives can return to normal with the trial behind them. And if they happen to use the burn barrel in the back yard to dispose of papers, they don't want to see an officer at the door, ready to write a ticket.
Mom denies allegations of abuse
ONEONTA — Suzanne Hirsch denied any allegations by Daniel and Rosemary Greene that she physically abused her son, Patrick, before the Greenes abducted him in 1987 when he was 2.
Local mechanic, lawyer feel the need for speed
DAVENPORT — In less than three weeks Davenport mechanic Ed Alexander and Stamford personal injury lawyer Mike Jacobs will get their motors running at the Daytona International Speedway, immersing themselves in sports-car racing under the balmy Florida sun.
Governor proposes changes in drug laws
ALBANY -— Gov. George Pataki proposed a series of reforms of the state's notorious Rockefeller Drug Laws Wednesday, and a Delaware County judge said he is interested in knowing more about the possible changes.
Police arrest man with gun
ONEONTA — An Oneonta man was arrested this week for shooting a gun and creating a disturbance at his apartment on 393 Main St., according to city of Oneonta court records.
Prof tries to help quake victims in El Salvador
A local organization with ties to El Salvador is appealing for donations to help the country repair the damage from a devastating 7.6-magnitude earthquake five days ago.
Davenport to reassess lots
During the 30 years he's served as an assessor in the town of Davenport, Robert Lawson said the town hasn't conducted a revaluation of the town's properties.
Judge denies motion to dismiss in assault case
SIDNEY — Judge Dennis Martin on Wednesday denied a motion to dismiss third-degree assault charges against Chad Scott, of Walton, filed after a bar fight in Sidney.
Both prosecution and defense attorneys said they are unsure how the denial would affect the case.
Wednesday, January 17, 2001
Plan gets mixed reviews
Lawmakers and education officials released a flurry of statements giving mixed reviews to Gov. George Pataki's 2001-02 budget proposal on Tuesday.
Sen. James L. Seward, R-Milford, called Pataki's proposals "an excellent starting point for budget talks." Tax cuts for small businesses and education funding will dominate the coming debate, he predicted.
Jury: Couple not guilty
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - After deliberating an hour and a half Tuesday night, a six-member jury in Richfield Town Court found Carmine and Lisa DiPippo not guilty of violating a state burn-barrel regulation. The DiPippos, who reside on state Route 166 in Roseboom, had been charged with violating a state regulation by burning obnoxious materials in their burn barrels during the years 1998-2000.
Burn barrels pose health risks, opponents say
ROSEBOOM - No matter what the outcome of the DiPippos' burn-barrel trial in Richfield Town Court, burn barrels must be banned for the health risks they pose locally and as far away as the Arctic Circle, according to Dr. John Davis, president of the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society.
Oneonta native named one to watch in 2001
A former Oneonta resident has won national recognition for his unconventional work.
Last month, USA Today included Marshall Miller, a 1992 Oneonta High School graduate, in its "People to Watch in 2001" series.
City police probe theft of safe and cash
ONEONTA — Oneonta City Police are investigating a burglary last week at the office of First Choice Cleaners on Carbon Street in Oneonta.
Tower hearing leaves questions
NEW BERLIN — Of the nearly 100 people in attendance at a public hearing Tuesday on the proposed cell tower for New Berlin, more than 40 had signed up to speak on the issue before the planning board. Chairman Lee Allen said that the planning board was scheduled to meet after the hearing and discuss whether to decide on the issue.
Tri-Towns Bureau
AFTON — An Afton couple was left homeless after fire destroyed their residence, according to an Afton fire official.
Court date postponed in abduction case
ONEONTA — Alleged child abductors Daniel and Rosemary Greene await their day in court, which has been bumped from today to Thursday.
Another hearing sought for shelter
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council has requested that another public meeting be held on a proposed homeless shelter before it moves ahead with possible recommendations on zoning changes for the project.
Women gets probation in Delware bust
DELHI - A Stamford woman was sentenced in Delaware County Court Tuesday to probation and time already served for selling cocaine.
Tuesday, January 16, 2001
Local residents recall war
Oneonta city firefighter Ronald Wamsley was stationed in Saudi Arabia when the first bombs fell on Baghdad.
"It's hard to believe it was 10 years ago," he said.
Wamsley joined the Army after graduating from Charlotte Valley Central School in Davenport in June 1990. He learned during the first week of December that year that he was going to fight against the Iraqi forces in the Persian Gulf.
"I was 18 at the time, I didn't have much of a reaction," he said about news he would be involved in the war.
Father speaks out on abduction
COBLESKILL — The father of 16-year-old Ryan Patrick Greene says he was planning to turn himself in to authorities in a few years — after the teen-ager graduated from high school.
Daniel Greene and the boy's stepmother, Rosemary, both arrested Friday on kidnapping charges at their Newbury, Mass., home, broke their silence Monday to explain why they fled 13 years ago with the boy they raised as "Patrick."
Delaware ARC chief, staff author book on behavior
The name of the book is "Shift Happens."
Catchy title? Yes, said its principal author, George Suess, executive director at the Delaware County ARC. But even better is what it's about — turning negative behavior into positive behavior.
District to look at future of Kellogg school
DELHI — The Delaware Academy and Central School board has put together a transition team to determine how to make the best use of the A.L. Kellogg school in Treadwell.
NYSEG to give power away
On Friday, one contributor to the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties will win a year's supply of electricity.
The drawing will be held at 9 a.m. at Opportunities for Otsego, 3 West Broadway St., Oneonta. More than 1,000 people who contributed $50 or more to the 2000 United Way campaign are eligible.
The "$1 Per Week Can Warm Your Heart and Your Home" incentive program was sponsored by New York State Electric & Gas Corp. NYSEG will provide the winner with up to $2,000 in electricity, including energy for heat and hot water.
Otsego teams to serve youths
A group of 35 community leaders met Thursday in Oneonta to form teams aimed at serving the youth of Otsego County. The meeting, held at FoxCare Center in Oneonta, was the second policy board meeting of Leatherstocking's Promise.
Mom stays out of spotlight
OTEGO — Suzanne Hirsch stood in the dimly lit doorway of her Otego apartment Sunday. Partially blocked by her screen door, she apologized for not being able to talk about the details of her long-awaited reunion with her 16-year-old son.
Hirsch, formerly of Oneonta, was reunited Friday with Ryan Patrick Greene, hours after authorities arrested his father and stepmother on kidnapping charges. She hadn't seen him since his father picked him up for a visit on Feb. 13, 1987, when he was 2 years old.
Fly car to help Delaware EMS
Residents of Delaware County may soon see a new emergency vehicle racing to the scene of accidents and medical emergencies. A Paramedic Advanced Life Support fly car is now available to assist volunteer emergency squads when they don't have ALS personnel available to respond to emergencies.
Nursing-home residents' work shown in D.C.
MARGARETVILLE — Dottie Cohen's pastel drawing of a hand and Hope Guglielmetti's acrylic painting of a cat will be permanently exhibited in Washington, D.C., at the American Association of Homes and Services for the Elderly Building.
Code Enforcement Office targets commercial buildings
Oneonta landlords holding vacant commercial buildings may soon receive a visit from city's Code Enforcement Office officials.
Code Enforcement Officer Peter Friedman said the city has started sending out letters to set up inspections, which will be done during the next few months.
NAACP discusses racial profiling at MLK Jr. Dinner
ONEONTA — An official from the New York Civil Liberties Union has offered to support local NAACP members discussing the possibility of creating a community-based group to prevent racial profiling.
Otsego continues to push for service
In Otsego County, as in much of the state, volunteer emergency squads are having a progressively harder time delivering advanced life-support services, but attempts to institute a fly-car system have been stymied, according to Lyle "Butch" Jones, the county's emergency-services coordinator.
Saturday, January 13, 2001
School lunches see evolution
School lunches have come a long way from the days of sloppy Joes and mystery-meat sandwiches.
According to Becky Morin, who is in charge of the school food-service program for the Oneonta City School District, meals prepared in area schools are healthier and more varied than ever before.
"I think the school lunch program has made great strides in the past several years," Morin said. "The old standards really kind of went out the window three or four years ago."
Woman's son found after 13 years
ONEONTA — The 13-year search for a missing child from Oneonta who was believed to be abducted by his father ended Friday morning at a duplex in Newbury, Mass.
G-C senior earns American citizenship
ONEONTA — Adrian Sarzynski's classmates made sure he had an all-American lunch Thursday.
"Hot dogs and apple pie," said teacher Elva Manee. "It doesn't get any more American than that."
The class threw a lunchtime party for Sarzynski, who officially became an American citizen Wednesday morning after signing papers and taking an oath at the federal Immigration and Naturalization Service office in Latham.
Grant to help police upgrade DWI testing
Police technology to combat driving while intoxicated is being upgraded in two Delaware County police departments, thanks to grant money from the state Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, according to Jason Stanton, Delaware County STOP-DWI coordinator.
Main Street building sold
ONEONTA — The vacant J&B Subs building at 214 Main St. may soon have new tenants.
That prospect comes after Binghamton resident John P. Ayres purchased the building at a public foreclosure sale Friday morning. Ayres, who already controlled the mortgage on the property, offered $80,000, which he said was less than the outstanding balance on the mortgage.
Town board appoints officials
At a recent town board meeting in Springfield, the following designations and appointments were approved.
Bassett to study farm injuries
Bassett Healthcare researchers in Cooperstown said they hope a new study will identify a way to reduce the number of children's farm injuries.
Art to give bird's-eye view
People organizing the village of Unadilla Bicentennial said they are excited about the ways that the painting, commissioned for the event, by Jim Parker will be used. Parker has used his artistic license to create a bird's-eye view of the village that tells a story about the village, said bicentennial chairwoman Kathleen Frascatore.
Future for Mount Markham school has four possible paths, official says
LEONARDSVILLE - The fate of the Mount Markham Central School's elementary school in Leonardsville is uncertain, school Superintendent Dick Young said Friday, two days after a meeting on the subject drew more than 100 people.
Friday, January 12, 2001
Walton drug store closes its doors
WALTON — An era ended Thursday when Bill and Marcia Hastings locked the doors of the Walton Pharmacy for the last time.Customers were initially stunned to hear that the Hastingses sold the nearly century-old, privately-owned pharmacy business to CVS Pharmacy. "We were one of the few independent pharmacies left in the region," Bill Hastings said.
Delaware faces flood threat
This season's heavy snows are creating the biggest flood threat in several years for the Northeast, with the Catskills among those regions facing the greatest threat, the National Weather Service warned this week.
Snow depths, according to the weather service, are 20 percent to 60 percent above normal in parts of the Susquehanna and Delaware River basins, and below-normal temperatures have created extensive river ice, which needs to be monitored as the winter progresses.
Stamford arts group to help preserve classic 16-mm films
Classic film buffs and those who are nostalgic for the comforting whir of the outmoded film projector can get their 16-millimeter movie fix at the Stamford Performing Arts Center.
Defense opens case in burn-barrel trial
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - Lisa DiPippo testified that she never knowingly violated any burning laws, as the defense presented its case Thursday night in Richfield Town Court.
Otsego board members get committee assignments
COOPERSTOWN - At Wednesday evening's meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, Chairman Carl Higgins, R-Edmeston, assigned board members to various county committees, according to Laura Child, board clerk.
Ban on dialing while driving has support
State legislators recently proposed a law that would make drivers focus attention on the road instead of on their phone conversations.
Under the proposal, using hand-held cellular phones while driving would be illegal, and the proposed ban calls for fines of $150 per violation.
Planners aim to avoid conflicts in considering project
New Berlin planners said they took steps to avoid possible conflicts of interest tied to a proposed cell tower project. The proposed tower would be built on a 100-foot-by-100-foot hilltop site, leased from Ken and Larry Swift, about a half mile from the intersection of state routes 23 and 8 in the hamlet of Amblerville, town of New Berlin.
Public safety looks to create police test
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council's Board of Public Safety has taken initial steps to create a test for the city Police Department's vacant lieutenant position.
Board members Wednesday discussed having Personnel Director John Insetta work on the request.
Reaction to shelter for homeless is mixed
ONEONTA — Opportunities for Otsego used its first public meeting on a proposed Sixth Ward homeless shelter Thursday night to outline the Depew Street project and address concerns from local residents.
Cell tower plan in air
AMBLERVILLE — The impact of a cell tower on health is among top issues that residents said they want to hear about at a public hearing in New Berlin on Tuesday.
Thursday, January 11, 2001
Local brokers see a silver lining
The past year has been a roller-coaster ride of ups and steep downs for investors in the stock market, but area brokers said there's no need to panic.
"This is the time you really make money in the market," said Eric Shields, branch manager for First Union Securities in Oneonta.
Frank Burden, the Oneonta branch manager of the investment company A.G. Edwards & Sons, also said that the current low stock prices could yield high returns.
Smoke sickening, neighbors say
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - Neighbors of Carmine and Lisa DiPippo testified Wednesday in Richfield Town Court that smoke from the couple's burn barrels made them sick.
The DiPippos, who reside on state Route 166 in the town of Roseboom, are charged with violating a state regulation by burning obnoxious materials in their burn barrels during the years 1998-2000.
Director to showcase CADE's success
MILFORD - Kevin Hodne, executive director of the Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship, will speak to organic farmers from around the state in Syracuse on Saturday, spreading the gospel that farming can be a growth industry.
Man killed moving snow
A car struck and killed a Plainfield man as he was snow blowing his driveway on Wednesday, Otsego deputies said.
Paul W. Aikins, 84, had turned his snow blower around in the middle of county Route 18 and was headed back into his driveway when a vehicle driven by 47-year-old Edward J. Schutz of West Edmeston hit him, deputies said.
Firm signed on to run Oneonta's Job Corps Center
KRA Corp. of Maryland has signed a $15 million, two-year agreement to take over operation of Oneonta Job Corps. Company officials met with U.S. Department of Labor officials in New York City on Wednesday to solidify the agreement, which will become effective March 1.
Hartwick, NAACP to sponsor discussion on racial profiling
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Hartwick College and the Oneonta Branch of the NAACP will sponsor a discussion at 2 p.m. Sunday on "Racial Profiling and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr."
Oneonta man on shore to welcome Navy veteran ship
Local Navy veteran Oren "Doc" Knapp was among the crowds of people that waved a rusty World War II ship and its crew of 70-year-old men into the harbor of Mobile, Ala., on Wednesday.
Wednesday, January 10, 2001
Board pulls junkyard's license
WEST DAVENPORT — For Ray Canner's auto salvage yard, the other shoe dropped Monday night at the Davenport Town Board meeting.
After warning Canner about the yard's violations last year, the board voted against renewing his junkyard license. The board, which could grant Canner a license as soon as its February meeting, cited an unfinished fence in denying the permit.
Testimony begins in Roseboom burn-barrel case
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - Carmine and Lisa DiPippo's burn-barrel trial entered its second night Tuesday in Richfield Town Court, with testimony by two witnesses.
The DiPippos, who reside on state Route 166 in Roseboom, are not being charged with operating a burn barrel, which is legal in communities of fewer than 10,000 people, but with violating a state Environmental Conservation regulation against burning materials that emit obnoxious fumes and present a public-health threat to their neighbors.
Artist to display clown works at Autumn Café
ONEONTA — In one print, a clown walks a dog. In another, a male clown hands flowers to female one. The everyday scenes make up part of Walter Gurbo's new show, "We God's Clowns," of about 20 prints, paintings and masks on display this month at the Autumn Cafe, 244 Main St.
Schoharie program aims to help crime victims
Crime victims in Schoharie County have a new friend who will help them cope with the trauma and expense associated with crime.
In October, the Family and Community Services of Schoharie County launched the new Crime Victim's Advocacy Program.
Group to review hotel's impact
Construction of the new downtown Oneonta hotel has spawned excitement among city officials, merchants and landlords during the past few months. Now, it has also given birth to a new committee.
Two Otsego reps at Unadilla meeting
UNADILLA — The Unadilla Town Board authorized $2,575 in legal expenses after an executive session to discuss litigation, at its Tuesday board meeting.
Tuesday, January 9, 2001
Job Corps contract awarded
ONEONTA — A Maryland-based company has learned that it has been awarded the contract to run the Oneonta Job Corps Center.
Some wary of Flex Aid
Last year, the Morris Central School District received about $45,000 for a pre-kindergarten program in its state aid package. There was just one problem. The district lacked the space for the program and as a result never used the money, Superintendent Michael Virgil said. "The categorical aid can't always be used," he said. "If you don't use it, you don't get it."
Magee re-appointed Ag chairman
ALBANY — Despite having backed a failed coup attempt against Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Nelson Democrat Bill Magee was re-appointed Monday to serve as chairman of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.
Coby Tech program named one of the best
The agriculture program at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill isn't just good — it's the best in the Northeast.
That's according to the National Association of Agriculture Educators, which gave top honors to the college's division of Agriculture and Natural Resources in December.
Firm lays off staff
SIDNEY — Seasonal factors are being cited as the reason for a recent round of layoffs at At-A-Glance in Sidney, according to a company official. Union officials were not available for comment.
Officials propose homeless
ONEONTA — Opportunities for Otsego is looking at property in the city of Oneonta's Sixth Ward as a potential site for a homeless shelter.
Hearing set for no-wake proposal at Otsego Lake
A public hearing on establishing a 200-foot no-wake zone on Otsego Lake will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Otsego Town Office Building in Fly Creek, according to town Supervisor Bill Gates.
Sidney engineer give update on sewer compliance
SIDNEY — It seems Sidney's wastewater-treatment plant is on the right track.
At Monday's Village Board meeting, village Engineer John Woodyshek reported that the village is on schedule in its compliance with a consent order that the state Department of Environmental Conservation issued in the fall regarding operations at the plant.
Monday, January 8, 2001
Substitute teacher shortage gets worse
Substitute teacher Lucille Dewey works for low pay and no benefits. She's on call five days a week and has little or no job security, but she likes what she does.
"It's the kids," Dewey said. "The children and teaching — that's what keeps me going."
More and more, schools are feeling the need for qualified substitute teachers such as Dewey. And as schools strive to meet higher standards and expectations, educators expect the need to increase.
Walton teens making Girl Scouting golden
WALTON — Two Walton Girl Scouts recently reached the pinnacle of Girl Scouting when they joined the ranks of less than two percent of more than 3.5 million Girl Scouts worldwide, who earn the Gold Award.
Sidney firefighters to get high-tech help
SIDNEY — The Sidney Fire Department is conducting a fund-raising campaign to buy a thermal-imaging camera. But the fire- fighters have already proven the worth of the equipment, thanks to a demonstrator model that is on loan to the department.
Forum on effect of Iraq sanctions planned
COOPERSTOWN - Three women from Cooperstown are working to stop the American-led sanctions against Iraq, which have caused the deaths of thousands of children and adults in the last decade.
Saturday, January 6, 2001
Local karate students become world champs
An Oneonta-based karate team is getting its kicks from having won top honors in the recent Sport Karate International world championship.
Ten members of Bill Doheny's Midstate Martial Arts and Kickboxing team, all students of the Sport Karate Institute of New York on Main Street, traveled to Savannah, Ga., on Christmas for the six-day competition that featured top karate talent from 26 countries.
Signs of the times
The signs can be seen on various telephone and light poles around Oneonta. They say if you have a computer, you can earn $25-$75 an hour.
It appears too good to be true, and perhaps it is.
The signs direct people to an online company's website (www.fast-dollar.com) where they are instructed to send the company $39 for an "Internet Decision Package."
Meeting has its share of laughter
Some lighter moments from a Nov. 29 meeting of the Oneonta City school board's buildings and grounds committee.
Springfield planners discuss site-plan law
SPRINGFIELD - Springfield's planning board prepared to implement the town's new site-plan review law Thursday evening, as developer Ross Valenza and his partner, Victor Alfieri, watched quietly in an audience of about 20 people.
City weathers 'old-fashioned' winter
ONEONTA — As darkness and a fresh blanket of snow fell on the streets of Oneonta on Friday, city residents could be seen, and heard, clearing the latest winter accumulation from their walks and driveways.
Painting helps take Unadilla back in time
UNADILLA — Women in long dresses are seen walking beside horse-drawn carriages down the streets of Unadilla. They are part of the birds-eye-view painting of the village that Jim Parker is completing for the Unadilla bicentennial, which is being celebrated throughout this year.
Vacancies dot city's Main St.
ONEONTA — Harold's Army-Navy store used to be a place for local residents to shop for Levi's. Now, the upper floors of the former Main Street clothing store are serving a distinctly different clientele: pigeons. Perhaps the building that held Harold's, which closed in October 1998, is the most glaring example.
Record rainfall boosts local water levels
A year of record-breaking wet weather has buoyed water levels in local reservoirs and in the watershed area of Otsego Lake, local officials said.
"This year was the first year I can remember when the level of Wilber Lake did not go below the level of the top of the spillway," said Stan Shaffer, chief operator of Oneonta's water treatment plant.
Boehler heads science panel
Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, Thursday was elected chairman of the House Science Committee, elevating the Utica native to his most powerful and influential position yet.
Einhorn cancer not expected to affect camps
HARTWICK - Baseball camp developer Eddie Einhorn has been diagnosed with "the early stages of prostate cancer," according to a statement issued Wednesday by the Chicago White Sox baseball team.
Mayor Muller attends Hillary's swearing-in
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta Mayor Kim Muller was among members of the state's Democratic Rural Conference to attend the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton in Washington on Wednesday.
Hospital sets open house
SIDNEY — The Hospital in Sidney will hold an open house Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., to allow people to tour the new intensive care unit and surgical recovery rooms that were recently completed. Both areas will be used for patient care starting Monday.
City board hears gripes about bills for shoveling
ONEONTA — The first few snowfalls of the winter season have predictably brought with them the first few complaints from city residents who have been billed for not clearing their sidewalks.
Delaware youth bureau announces funding
DELHI — The Delaware County Youth Bureau has announced 2001 New York State Office of Children and Family Services funding for the following agencies and programs:
Thursday, January 4, 2001
Delhi Tech nursing students in good health academically
Area health-care providers can rest easy knowing that the recent graduating class of the State University College of Technology at Delhi includes a highly qualified group of nurses.
For the first time in the history of Delhi Tech, 100 percent of the students in the graduating class of the nursing program passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
No SUNY tuition hike; farmers may get tax cut
ALBANY — Area SUNY students aren't expected to see tuition rise, farmers would receive more tax relief and local governments throughout the region could see tens of thousands of dollars in reimbursements from the state under initiatives unveiled Wednesday by Gov. George Pataki.
Eisel takes Delaware County board helm
DELHI — There was a shift in leadership at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors organizational meeting on Wednesday.
Harpersfield Supervisor James E. Eisel was unanimously elected chairman of the board, replacing Walton Supervisor Joseph P. Hanley.
Higgins wins 17th term as board chair
COOPERSTOWN - Carl Higgins, R-Edmeston, was re-elected chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives on Wednesday by a 13-to-1 vote, with Cathy Rothenberger, D-Oneonta, voting no.
Oneonta seeks state funds
The city of Oneonta is among a number of state municipalities eligible to receive up to $750,000 in state grant funding for economic development projects.
Oneonta school board member resigns
ONEONTA — The Oneonta city school board is now accepting applications following the unexpected resignation of board member Richard A. Harlem on Wednesday night.
Harlem, a lawyer, resigned so he could spend more time with his wife and three children, he said.
Muller names panel members
ONEONTA — Oneonta Mayor Kim Muller assigned aldermen to committees and task forces for the upcoming year during this week's reorganizational meeting of the Common Council.
Delhi man found guilty again
DELHI — For the second time in less than four months, a Delaware County jury found a Delhi man guilty of a crime. After a one-day trial on Wednesday, Alvin M. Hogencamp, 21, was found guilty on a felony second-degree assault charge for biting a fellow inmate while he awaited court action on numerous other charges pending against him.
Chenango chamber to hold job fair
NORWICH — The Home for the Holidays Job Fair will be held today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Eaton Center on 24 Conkey Ave. The Chenango County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the event.
Wednesday, January 3, 2001
ERs brace for a crowd
Last month, state Health Commissioner Dr. Antonia Novello told New York state hospitals that they must have plans in place in case their emergency rooms become overcrowded this winter.
On Tuesday, local hospital administrators said they have contingency plans for overcrowding, but they have not had to resort to them this season.
2000 was wettest year ever
ONEONTA — Oneonta got soaked by more rain and snow in 2000 than any other year on record, causing difficulty for farmers but no significant flooding for the area, a local weather observer said.
Anti-DWI crusader honored for Otsego project
MILFORD - Otsego County's STOP-DWI Coordinator Richard Devlin has been honored for his pioneering efforts to keep Otsego County's highways safe.
Fire chief's son first 2001 baby
While many people were recovering from a night of New Year revelry early Monday morning, for one area family the celebration was just beginning.
Laura Bojo, wife of Hancock Fire Department Chief Rolland "Boomer" Bojo, gave birth to a baby boy at 7:53 a.m. Monday, at the Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton.
Drug defendant sent to prison despite pleas
DELHI — A Margaretville man appeared in Delaware County Court on Tuesday and was sentenced to three concurrent terms of two to six years in state prison, despite his claims that his health is failing and that he got into dealing drugs to protect his children.
Pataki wants to expand 'Empire Zones'
ALBANY — The state's chief executive announced expansion plans Tuesday for some of the state's "Empire Zones" meant to attract new or expanding businesses.
Doubling the size of 22 of the commercial tracts statewide was one of a litany of economic development incentives Gov. George Pataki announced and is expected to tout in his State-of-the-State address today.
Board chair expected to win 17th term
COOPERSTOWN - When the Otsego County Board of Representatives meets today, Carl Higgins, R-Edmeston, will be seeking his 17th one-year term as chairman.
Council rejects filling position of lieutenant
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Police Department's vacant lieutenant position will remain vacant, at least for the time being.
Council members Tuesday voted down a motion by Third Ward Alderman Julie Carney to fill the lieutenant's position with Oneonta Police Sgt. Mark Howard, whom she suggested should be paid an annual salary of $50,945.
Chairman keeps post in Chenango
NORWICH — Norwich resident Richard B. Decker was re-elected chairman of the Chenango County Board of Supervisors during its Tuesday organizational meeting. He is starting his fourth term in that position.
Hamden man admits sexually abusing girl
DELHI — A Hamden man who was scheduled to go to trial on charges of rape and sodomy, agreed to a plea bargain agreement in Delaware County Court on Tuesday.
Tuesday, January 2, 2001
Seward, Burns sworn in during Oneonta ceremonies
ONEONTA — More than 300 people filled the reception rooms at the Holiday Inn on New Year's Day to witness the swearing-in ceremonies for state Sen. James L. Seward, R-Milford, and Otsego County Judge Brian Burns. "Today we dream great dreams," Seward said. "Tomorrow we will get started on the job before us with renewed determination and conviction."
Fox gala a swingin' success
ONEONTA — A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital has concluded its centennial year with a bang.
In November, the hospital's annual gala raised more money than any of the previous nine, the hospital announced last week.
First Night '01 draws crowds
ONEONTA — Despite wind, frosty temperatures and some serious snow, organizers of Oneonta's First Night 2001 said they pulled off another successful New Year's Eve celebration Sunday night.
The weather threatened to change or reschedule part of the fourth First Night event in the city, but in the end the show went on as scheduled.
Area enters new year with some optimism
What will 2001 bring for the local economy?
In conversations last week, businessmen offered various assessments, reflecting concern about the stock market and milk prices but also optimism stemming from local construction projects and positive developments in 2000.
