End of compact may hurt area
So far this year, Cherry Valley dairy farmer Matt Utter has received $3,300 in Northeast Interstate Dairy Compact premium money. About $400 is enough to pay for a month's health insurance, or some new supplies, he explained. But compact checks may be no more. The compact, which pays premiums to farmers when milk prices drop too low, is set to expire Sunday unless Congress renews it.
Laurens students show their spirit
LAURENS — The sun broke through the clouds Friday just long enough to shed a little light on homecoming activities at Laurens Central School. The school's fourth annual homecoming parade featured floats built by students in grades seven through 12. Competition was fierce as each class was competing for points to determine the overall winner of Spirit Week, which began Monday.
A view of NYC
NEW YORK — Sometimes a reporter does something that isn't for a story — something that is done in her free time, that has almost nothing to do with Oneonta, or the paper she works for. But the experience may be so compelling, so incredible, that she has absolutely no choice but to write about it.
Program to serve bartending tips
ONEONTA — Bar owners and their staff are invited to participate Monday in a free training session that teaches the responsible serving and use of alcohol. The city of Oneonta and Hartwick College are cosponsoring the program called TIPS, which is short for Training for Intervention Procedures, a national program. The three-hour training class will be held at the Hartwick College Telecenter conference room, downstairs at 250 Main St., from 2 to 5 p.m. Participants will learn about the effects of alcohol and drugs on patrons. They are also taught to identify potentially dangerous situations and how to cope with them.
Preventing suicide focus of conference
ONEONTA — Nearly 100 educators, counselors and medical professionals attended a convention in Oneonta on Friday designed to raise awareness about suicide. "It went fantastic," said Marian Mossman, chairwoman of the Suicide Prevention Education Coalition, or SPEC, the group that organized the event. "I think everyone feels they might be better able to assist someone if the situation should come up."
County to dedicate firefighter training center
The Delaware County Firefighters Association will hold an open house and dedication today from noon to 10 p.m. for the county's new Fire Training Center in Hamden. "We've been planning and talking about it for 10 years," said Jim Olmstead, deputy fire coordinator for Delaware County. "This will give county firefighters the opportunity to practice under realistic conditions."
Friday, September 28, 2001
'We will be stronger than ever'
DELHI — Rain clouds hovered over Courthouse Square in Delhi on Thursday as Delaware County's fire, emergency medical service and law enforcement personnel congregated to pay respects to their fallen compatriots in New York City. On the crisp, autumn evening the memorial service was held in honor of emergency services workers who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 World Trade Center attacks.
Man indicted in fatal accident
An East Worcester man was arrested Thursday in connection with an Aug. 7 motor vehicle accident in Worcester that left a man dead and a woman seriously injured, authorities said. Henry J. Robinson, 37, was indicted on felony charges of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, second-degree vehicular assault and second-degree assault.
Woman's collection red, white, blue
ONEONTA — Marguerite Bolton doesn't need a red, white and blue ribbon, a patriotic pin or an American flag to remind her of what it is to be an American.
Endicott man charged with two burglaries
ONEONTA — An Endicott area man was arrested Thursday by city police after allegedly robbing a woman and a Main Street restaurant.
Student's e-mail threats investigated
ONEONTA — A St. Mary's Roman Catholic School eighth-grade student is under investigation after allegedly e-mailing threats to a fellow student, state police at Oneonta said Thursday.
Thursday, September 27, 2001
City cracks down on party pads
ONEONTA — Eviction proceedings have begun for a number of college students living in three downtown Oneonta apartment buildings, city officials said this week. Five apartments located in rental complexes at 70 Market St., 20-22 Market St. and 211 Main St. were recently cited as unsafe by the city Code Enforcement Office.
Exhibit to feature Pathfinder artists
GILBERTSVILLE — More than 30 colorful works of art created by nine artists from Pathfinder Village will be on display at Studio Dionysus in Gilbertsville through October. A public reception for "The Artists of Pathfinder Village: Celebrating Community and Culture" will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the studio on Marion Street.
'Fallen comrades' to be remembered
Delaware County will hold a memorial service tonight to honor law enforcement and emergency services workers who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 World Trade Center attacks.
Historic bridge gets 10-acre resting place
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors accepted a donation Wednesday for a 10-acre plot of land on which to permanently store the old Sherwoods Bridge.
Hartwick's Fall Weekend '01 packed with events
Hartwick College in Oneonta will play host to hundreds of guests, as alumni and parents and families of current students gather for Fall Weekend '01 starting Friday.
Suicide prevention conference scheduled for Friday in Oneonta
Preventing suicide will be addressed in a conference in Oneonta on Friday. "The Aftermath of Suicide: Preventing Further Tragedies," will feature documentary producer Dempsey Rice, producer of "Daughter of Suicide," and other suicide prevention specialists.
Wednesday, September 26, 2001
Program aims to combat nursing shortage
COOPERSTOWN — By 2005, the demand for registered nurses will exceed the supply by 17,000, experts predict. Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, the State University College of Technology at Delhi and Hartwick College in Oneonta have teamed to produce a program that could fill vacancies at the hospital. The initiative is also designed to encourage students to consider nursing as a career, hospital and college officials announced at a press conference Tuesday.
Two incumbents win
Two town supervisor incumbents won and another lost in Tuesday's Republican primaries in Delaware County. In Otsego County, Republican Jerry Wood of Mount Vision and Democrat Renee Bennett of Wells Bridge winning, and earning their parties' nominations for seats on the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Local tourism falters
From Cooperstown to Lake Placid, autumn tourism has seen an unprecedented decrease since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks hundreds of miles away. "It's industry wide," said Robert Faller, director of sales and marketing at The Otesaga, a 136-room resort in Cooperstown.
Pictorial history captures old-time Oneonta
ONEONTA — City Historian Mark Simonson has done a rare thing. His pictorial history of the city, titled, "Oneonta," was published and delivered to area bookstores earlier this month. Few Oneonta history books are in print, said Peter Molinari, owner of The Rose and the Laurel Book Shop on Main Street.
Groundbreaking for soccer fields set
OXFORD — The thud of soccer balls will be echoing in Oxford, when the Chenango County Soccer Club completes its new fields in the town. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the first phase of the project will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the 21-acre David L. Emerson Soccer/Sport Farm on state Route 12, about one mile north of the village of Oxford.
School-based health-care program expanding
Usually, when students feel sick, they stay home from school. But with the help of Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown, some children are doing just the opposite. Students at four area districts — Delhi, Morris, Edmeston and Laurens — have access to a nurse practitioner and doctor through the school-based health center program, administered by Bassett. Now there's another school to add to the list.
First Night looking for help
ONEONTA — Plans for fireworks, a parade and 22 downtown sites of multi-cultural entertainment are already underway for First Night Oneonta 2002. The theme of the fifth annual Dec. 31 event is "Bridging Cultures," said James Koury, steering committee co-chairman. "We wanted to have a theme that unified people of multi-cultural backgrounds," he said.
19th C. landscape photographer to be stamped in history
ONEONTA — An event 15 years in the making will come to fruition Thursday evening. At 7 p.m., the Oneonta post office will hold a dedication ceremony, open to the public, for a painting honoring Carleton Emmons Watkins, an Oneonta-born landscape photographer. The work was painted by Oneonta resident Jennie Williams.
Fatal crash still being investigated
A fatal two-car accident Sept. 8 in the town of Middlefield is still under investigation and no charges have been filed yet, authorities said Monday.
Tuesday, September 25, 2001
Official helped where needed
Not even 31 years of law enforcement experience could prepare Stephen Williamson for the disaster left at the site of the World Trade Center in New York City, he said. "Nobody is trained for this," said Williamson, Roxbury's constable, who returned from the scene Friday. "When you see it first hand, your mind is blank. You're empty inside." Williamson, 53, spent last week securing the ground zero area, escorting workers and classified items to and from the scene and comforting workers and city residents.
NYFD veteran joined in search
Firefighter William Cody of Davenport Center thought he was prepared for immense devastation when he joined rescue efforts in New York City a little more than a week ago, he said. But he wasn't. "I couldn't believe the scale of the destruction. You just can't see it on TV," said Cody, 60, a veteran of New York City's Rescue Three Co. "
Capt. offered moral aid
ONEONTA — Oneonta Salvation Army Capt. Mary Fitch said she has seen enough sorrow to last a lifetime.
Pen pals become best friends over decades
NEW LISBON - After years of corresponding by mail, Jean Hinton and Carol Kaye, who live about 3,000 miles apart, have become best friends.
Voters head to polls today for primaries
COOPERSTOWN - Today is primary election day, two weeks after the original date of Sept. 11, when terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center forced a postponement.
Where to vote
Area polling places for today's Republican and Democratic primaries (polls are open from noon to 9 p.m.) are:
Wind project turns out power
MADISON - Like moving sculptures, the tall, white, three-bladed turbines dominate the skyline south of state Route 20 in Madison. The closer you get, the larger they loom — towers rising 220 feet, affixed to giant, slow-swinging rotors. "Each blade is 110 feet long. These are the biggest turbines east of the Mississippi," says Mike Merrick, East Coast regional manager for Vestas American Wind Technology, an international firm that installed and maintains these power plants.
Outage cuts power for 1,264
ONEONTA — A squirrel-induced power outage left 1,264 Oneonta customers without electricity for three hours on Sunday, local officials from New York State Electric & Gas Corp. said.
Woman hurt in racing accident
MORRIS — A snowmobile racing accident at the Morris Fairgrounds on Sunday evening left a Schoharie woman seriously injured, state police at Oneonta said.
Service illustrates peace common to all religions
ONEONTA — Prayer can take many different forms, but on Sunday, area residents gathered to show that there is also something universal about the comfort people find in praying to their God — no matter what the religion.
Giant salamander joins Hartwick community
ONEONTA — A Hartwick College professor has been hellbent on changing the school's mascot since the recent arrival of Hector, a 20-inch long hellbender.
Orpheus Theatre decides upcoming show must go on
ONEONTA — When the tragedy of Sept. 11 struck, Orpheus Theatre was deep into rehearsals for its upcoming production of "Stop the World — I Want to Get Off."
Scholarship established in memory of Oneonta couple
ONEONTA — Hartwick College has announced that a scholarship fund has been established by John Bertuzzi of Greenwich, Conn., in memory of his parents, Samuel and Angeline Bertuzzi of Oneonta. Scholarship established in memory of Oneonta couple
Lecture to examine the history of terrorism
COBLESKILL — U.S. Navy Cmdr. Dr. Robert G. Darling will present a program, "Biological Warfare and Terrorism — the History, Threat and Medical Counter Measures," at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill's Bouck Theater at 6:30 p.m. today.
Saturday, September 22, 2001
Parents, educators debate Ritalin use
Three years ago, Anemarie Wenck, now 10, couldn't sit through a day at school. Because of a developmental disorder, Anemarie, who attends Charlotte Valley Central School in Davenport, has little impulse control and a severe attention deficit, explains her mother, Kathleen Wenck. "Anemarie is just loose. That's the only way I can think of to describe it," Wenck said. "She has no impulse control. She just goes from one thing to the next."
Teacher set to become student
A Stamford Central School teacher seems undaunted by a learning experience ahead of her in a different country with a language that is foreign to her. "I don't speak a word of Japanese," said Susan Robertson, who is preparing for a trip to the land of the Rising Sun.
City police investigating asaults
ONEONTA — Several recent assaults are being investigated by city of Oneonta police. Michael T. Geissler, 18, of Washingtonville, was charged with third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, and disorderly conduct, a violation.
Manager: Dentist pointed gun at me
A Bainbridge man was arrested Thursday after allegedly pointing a gun at a Daily Star employee delivering a newspaper to his office in Otego, state police at Oneonta said Friday.
Belt may tighten for county
Money is tight and demands are heavy this year as the Otsego County Board of Representatives nears the time to prepare a budget for the upcoming year, said Rep. Charles Bateman, a member of the county's Budget Ways and Means Committee.
Friday, September 21, 2001
'Fight war, not wars'
ONEONTA — Students, faculty and community members spoke against retaliatory violence at an open forum and rally at the State University College at Oneonta on Thursday. Speakers said they wanted to see the terrorists behind last Tuesday's attacks brought to justice without the loss of more innocent lives. About 80 people, including 20 speakers, attended the noon forum led by Mark Rice, a SUCO counselor, and Jason Nappi, president of the student association.
Doctor: Student likely OD'd
ONEONTA — A combination of five drugs probably caused the death of a local college student, said a doctor who cited preliminary autopsy results Thursday. Frank Russo, 22, of Staten Island, was found dead early Wednesday morning at his apartment in Oneonta. Barbiturates, amphetamines, an opiate, marijuana and alcohol were found in his system, said Dr. William Shang, laboratory director at A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta.
Experts: Long-term economic outlook is good
Despite recent stock market drops on Wall Street, local experts say the economic outlook might not be so bad. "We could go through a recession this year," said David Ring, associate professor of economics for the State University College at Oneonta. "But I see a rebound."
Garden house gets new roof in C'Town
COOPERSTOWN - There's something new at one of the oldest estates on Otsego Lake. The garden house at the Brookwood Estate has been re-roofed with cedar shingles, giving this historic building new life.
Board tables telecommunications study
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives has tabled a resolution to hire a consulting firm for $55,000 to study the county's telecommunications system.
Sidney class joins attack-relief efforts
SIDNEY — An English class at the Sidney Middle School continues to involve the community in responding to the Sept. 11 attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center.
Youth prison meeting draws 200 in Walton
WALTON — More than 200 people in Walton gave a polite reception Thursday to state officials at a public meeting to discuss the proposed siting of a youth prison in the town.
Thursday, September 20, 2001
DA gets 3 new brawl indictments
COOPERSTOWN - An Otsego County grand jury has indicted three men in connection with last February's brawl at the Oneonta parking garage that left one college student permanently injured. That student, Joseph Olivo, 21, of Shoreham, who had attended the State University College at Oneonta, has been in a coma since the Feb. 10 melee and appears to have sustained permanent brain damage, according to Otsego County District Attorney William "Jack" Gibbons.
Foliage on track for Oct. peak
ONEONTA — This week, a smattering of reds and golds dot the wooded hillsides in the area — just a sneak preview of the color explosion to come in the next few weeks. Self-professed nature lover Pauline Stavola of Cooperstown predicts the second week of October will be the peak of leaf season.
Virus disables county computers
COOPERSTOWN - The Nimda virus shut down Otsego County's computer network Wednesday, according to Brian Pokorny, the county's director of Management Information Systems.
Employees ask board to improve working conditions
COOPERSTOWN - More than 50 county employees attended Wednesday night's session of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, asking board members to improve salaries and working conditions at their jobs.
Delaware County all action, no talk
With emergency services on stand-by, a memorial service scheduled, at least one fund-raiser in place and a hot line set-up, Delaware County is doing its part to assist in the nationwide recovery from last week's terrorist attacks.
School board sets tax levy; after-school programs in limbo
ONEONTA — Board of Education members Wednesday set a 4.5 percent tax levy for the Oneonta City School District. The amount was the same as what was presented to voters in the budget that passed in May.
Tops supermarket open for business
SIDNEY — Shopping carts were rolling along Delaware Avenue again Wednesday as Tops Friendly Market opened in the former Grand Union location.
Wednesday, September 19, 2001
NYC fire captain killed in attacks had local ties
The captain of the New York City Fire Department will no longer be hunting in the woods of Sidney Center. He won't be visiting his brother in Jefferson or his sister in Stamford. Peter J. Ganci Jr., 54, was one of 300 firefighters to lose his life in the battle to save victims of the World Trade Center collapse.
'I'm ready to give up my life ... I'm not scared at all'
Seventeen-year-old Tim Bankich says he is ready to die for the United States of America. "It's my turn to fight for my country," said Bankich, an Oneonta High School senior planning to join the Air Force following graduation next summer.
Skatepark gets money needed to finish
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta has approved spending another $20,000 that will go toward completion of the municipal skateboard park in Neahwa Park.
Otsego 2000 gets grant
SPRINGFIELD - The Preservation League of New York State and the New York State Council on the Arts has awarded $4,846 to Otsego 2000 to complete a National Register of Historic Places' nomination for the Waggoner Patent Historic District in the town of Springfield.
SUCO to hold peace rally
ONEONTA — Students at the State University College at Oneonta have organized a peace protest in conjunction with 82 other colleges across the country.
Former Hartwick star lost in attack
ONEONTA — Former Hartwick College basketball great Tim O'Brien is among those presumed to have died in last week's terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, college officials said Monday. O'Brien's friends and former coaches spoke with reverence about the 1983 graduate who is said to have shined both on and off the court.
State delay puts schools in budget bind
Sidney Central School District officials set the tax levy to 2.998 percent — the amount promised to voters several months ago — in late August. But without any finalized state aid package — and none in sight — this was no easy task, Superintendent Dominic Nuciforo said. "This whole thing has been like sitting in front of a Ouija Board," he said. "It's total insanity."
Future hazy for tobacco payments
COOPERSTOWN - Counties in New York State have been advised there may be a "significant decrease" in next year's tobacco settlement payments, according to Otsego County Rep. Ronald Feldstein.
Students cool with middle school
In every school district, there are students who are stuck in the middle. Not exactly elementary students, and not quite high schoolers, these pupils often struggle, educators said.
Some area guardsmen return
ONEONTA — Several local National Guard members said Sunday they looked forward to the possibility of helping in this country's response to Tuesday's terrorist attacks in New York and Washington.
County, firm make free paint a possibility
COLUMBUS - Free, recycled latex paint soon will be available to nonprofit agencies, churches and other groups, thanks to Otsego County's recycling program and Golden Artist Colors in Columbus.
Nominations listed for property awards
Nominations for the best properties in Oneonta are set, with the announcement of dozens of well-maintained or improved buildings in the community.
Blood donors still needed; area groups help collect money
The American Red Cross is still accepting donations at all scheduled blood drives, officials said, and local organizations are helping raise money for the terrorist attacks relief efforts.
Saturday, September 15, 2001
OHS grad among missing
ONEONTA — A 1967 graduate of Oneonta High School is among those who are still missing three days after the World Trade Center was destroyed by terrorists. Family and friends of Thomas W. Duffy, 52, say that faith and hope are keeping them going in these dark days.
Primary races back on
COOPERSTOWN - Primary elections in New York state, postponed Tuesday because of the attack on the World Trade Center, will be held Tuesday, Sept. 25.
'America is there for us, truly there for us'
ONEONTA — For about 35 minutes Friday night, a portion of Main Street in Oneonta was silent. About 350 people — children, adults and college students — stood shoulder to shoulder listening to sorrowful and encouraging words of local leaders during a community candlelight vigil.
Weekend services to address attacks
Some clergy and church officials announced that services this weekend will address issues in connection with the recent terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Area churches to offer spiritual guidance
In weekend church services, local clergy will ask congregations to turn to God to cope with feelings of despair caused by Tuesday's terrorist attacks. "There are all kinds of tragedies that we don't understand. We have to trust and have faith in God — he knows what he's doing," said the Rev. Mel Farmer of the River Street Baptist Church in Oneonta.
Flag takes on special role after attacks
ONEONTA — Not until this week, as people come to grips with national tragedy, has the sight of Old Glory taken on such an intense meaning for Americans. In the wake of Tuesday's terrorism that caused airline crashes in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, hundreds of residents have been seen scouring the stores for American flags.
Students, officials to break ground Sunday
NEW BERLIN — It has been nearly six years after a committee was formed to examine the merger of the New Berlin and South New Berlin school districts and almost 51/2 years after voters gave their approval.
'Reality Check' hits teens at dance
Teen-agers who went to a dance recently at the Oneonta YMCA got a reality check. Members of the Delaware County "Reality Check" program, an anti-smoking program run by teen-agers, attended the Sept. 8 dance to warn fellow middle and high schoolers about the dangers of tobacco.
Friday, September 14, 2001
Area Muslims urge discretion following attacks
An Oneonta doctor said it would be easy to make Arab-Americans and Muslims "scapegoats" in light of the recent tragedy that has rocked America. Dr. Mohamed Egal, a Somalian Muslim who has lived with his family in the Oneonta area for two decades, said the terrorists "represent evil and darkness, but to blame all Muslims would be to sink as low as those responsible for the tragedy."
Blood drive draws crowd in Franklin
FRANKLIN — More than 100 people showed up to donate blood at the United Methodist Church in Franklin on Thursday, some patiently waiting in line more than two hours. "After the disaster, I called up and made an appointment," said Lynn Hauptfleisch, a social worker from Franklin. "I figured this was something I could do to help." American Red Cross worker Susan Newcomb said 57 people had signed up to give blood as of 5 p.m., and more than 55 walk-ins had left their names to give blood at a later time.
Oneonta's Sport Tech named Small Business of the Year
Need a bicycle? A pair of skis? A varsity jacket? Just visit the downtown Oneonta shop recently named Small Business of the Year by the Otsego County Chamber — Sport Tech.
Candlelight vigil tonight in C'town
COOPERSTOWN - In keeping with the national day of prayer and remembrance proclaimed by President Bush for today, Otsego County Republicans and Democrats will hold a candlelight vigil at 7 p.m. tonight on the front lawn of the county courthouse in Cooperstown.
Unadilla landfill plan junked
The long-awaited decision that could decide the future of a solid waste transfer station in Unadilla has been issued, and the results are split.
Democrat loos to earn worker support in bid to unseat Higgins
COOPERSTOWN - Democrat Sheila Serbay, 54, of Burlington is working to enlist the support of county workers in her bid to win the District 10 seat on the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Thursday, September 13, 2001
Area residents express shock, frustration
ONEONTA — More than 24 hours after terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, area residents say they are still stunned. "I'm still shocked," says Mount Vision resident Laurie Tilley. "I think a lot of things are going to have to change in this country." Walking through the Southside Mall on Wednesday, snippets of conversation can be heard. Residents talk about the tragic events that occurred.
Students discuss feelings of grief, loss
SIDNEY — Sidney Middle School students said classroom discussions the day after terrorist attacks in New York and Washington were helpful in dealing with the tragedy. "This is something that we will be talking about a long time," 13-year-old Alex McLean said, "so it is important that we understand it better." Classmate Mike Hinsch said when it first happened, kids might not have wanted to express their feelings. But that changed "a day after they had a chance to take it all in."
County allocates funds for job education, training
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors approved the appropriation of a $200,000 federal grant Wednesday that will provide the county with funding for job education and training.
Guilford Mills to close in November
COBLESKILL — A maker of swimwear and lingerie in Schoharie County has announced it will shut down in November and 500 people will lose their jobs.
Milford board: Meetings OK after school
MILFORD — Outside activities can be held after school, the Milford Central School Board of Education decided at its meeting Wednesday night.
Offers to donate blood overwhelming
Local Red Cross and hospital officials say they have been inundated with calls from residents who want to donate blood in the wake of Tuesday's terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C.
Residents object to parking restrictions
SIDNEY — Nearly 25 people attended a Sidney Village Board meeting Monday to complain about several local laws, particularly restrictions on parking.
Catastrophe shocks college students
ONEONTA — A somber hush blanketed the campuses of Hartwick College and the State University College at Oneonta following Tuesday's terrorist attacks. All classes at SUCO were canceled at noon and many were canceled at Hartwick. Some students crowded around campus televisions with faculty, while others headed for their dorms and apartments to call friends and family members.
Horrified reaction to attacks on U.S.
ONEONTA — Shock, fear, anger and sadness were among the reactions of area residents in downtown Oneonta on Tuesday to the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. "This is a day we'll remember for the rest of our lives," said 20-year-old Brooklyn native Mike Hymowitz. "I think it is ironic that we got hit by (terrorists in) our own airlines."
Forever changed
Attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon Tuesday are a turning point in American history, according Sugwon Kang, recently retired political science professor at Hartwick College in Oneonta.
Police, emergency personnel head to NYC
ONEONTA — A contingent of Oneonta city police officers traveled to Manhattan on Tuesday afternoon to help deal with the aftermath of terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.
Helping children deal with tragedy
James Gabarino, professor of human development and co-director of the Family Life Development Center at Cornell University, offered the following advice to parents on how they can help their children deal with the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon Tuesday morning:
N.J. apartment gave OHS graduate city view
Smoke rose from a tower at the World Trade Center, according to Giuseppe Papandrea, who said he watched events unfold Tuesday in lower Manhattan from his apartment in Jersey City.
Primaries postponed; shops close
Primary elections were postponed Tuesday, and government offices and numerous businesses closed early because of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.
Clergy offering prayers, comfort
At 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Rabbi Donald Neil Roberts of the Temple Beth El received a phone call canceling a 9 a.m. voice lesson he was to give in New York City.
Schools calmly set up crisis services
Keeping students safe and calm was a top priority, area school officials said after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Tuesday morning.
Seward 'thankful to be alive'
It was not yet 10 a.m. Tuesday when Sen. James L. Seward said he saw night fall on lower Manhattan.
Father safe; son ready for war
"My father was on the 33rd floor when the plane hit Tower A," said 19-year-old Jesse Hamilton, a student at the State University College at Oneonta.
Tuesday, September 11, 2001
Fire destroys Unadilla home
UNADILLA — After several hours watching flames destroy their Unadilla home Monday, Michael and Dorothy D'Angelo finally sat under a nearby tree as crews worked to douse the smoldering remains. Nobody was injured in the fire that broke out at 420 County Route 3 in Unadilla at about 10 a.m., said Unadilla Fire Chief Carl French. He said a neighbor reported the fire, which left the D'Angelo family homeless.
Polls open for area primaries today
COOPERSTOWN - Today is primary election day, when voters will select party nominees for county board seats in Otsego County, town/county supervisor posts in Delaware and Chenango counties as well as mayor in the city of Norwich.
Radio personality brought arts to the air
ONEONTA — After 19 years of celebrating culture on the Oneonta airwaves, a local radio personality has turned off his microphone and is ready to enjoy retirement.
Inmate guilty of assault
DELHI — A Cadosia man pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court on Monday to felony charges of second-degree assault and second-degree attempted assault.
Civil rights leader to address graduates
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Job Corps will have graduation ceremonies at its Homer Folks campus at 2 p.m. Saturday. The keynote address will be delivered by the Rev. Samuel "Billy" Kyles, a civil rights leader.
A dream from a land down under
Meeting Men at Work was a childhood dream, and on the day it happened, I proudly admit that I was nothing but a raging groupie in reporter's clothing.
Governor's proposals worries some schools
For several weeks, school officials have said they may suffer budgetary difficulties from the state's baseline budget. Now they say one more thing may be detrimental to local schools.
United Way sets five-year campaign goal
Officials with the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties say they are optimistic about meeting this year's campaign goal of $330,000.
Monday, September 10, 2001
Dress codes in vogue at area schools
Here's a quiz for the new school year. Which of these items of clothing would a student get in trouble for wearing to a local high school?
Head-on car crash kills area woman
MIDDLEFIELD — A Cherry Valley woman died Saturday following a two-car, head-on collision in the town of Middlefield, Otsego County sheriff's deputies said.
Lost 'angel' to return to Guilford
GUILFORD CENTER — An angel will be returning to Guilford. A woodcarving of the archangel Gabriel blowing his horn rested in a portico above the second story window of the Angel Inn in Guilford for more than 100 years, according to Guilford town historian Thomas Gray.
Day-care center receives $11,000 grant
SIDNEY — The Rainbow Infant-Toddler Day Care in Sidney has received an $11,000 grant, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Program announced Monday.
Area polling places become more accessible
Disabled voters in Delaware and Schoharie counties will have an easier time getting to the polls for Tuesday's primaries now that more than 70 locations are compliant with state regulations, election officials said this week.
City to monitor 'Hartwick Wall'
A message that read "We love you Ken" and was accompanied by bookend-paintings of Homer and Bart Simpson was broadcast to the Oneonta community Sunday on the "Hartwick Wall."
Saturday, September 8, 2001
Book bills add up for students
Another year, another freshman class shocked by the harsh reality of college textbook prices. "I maxed out my credit card," said Mike Fasano, 19, a freshman at the State University College at Oneonta. Fasano, an education major, said he spent $400 at the college's bookstore last week.
Bassett continues reading program
Hawthorne, Melville ... and some kid from upstate New York? With a little help from a philanthropic life-line, Bassett Healthcare will continue attempting to produce the next great American literary bard — and many readers — as its "Reach Out and Read" program remains intact.
Residents holding onto hot air
The first day of fall is only two weeks away. Hints of the season — turning leaves and cooler mornings — are already here. But with recent daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s, many residents are defiantly milking summer for all it's worth.
Mom killed by drunken driver remembered
COOPERSTOWN - The daughter of an Oneonta woman who was killed last November by drunken driver Michael A. Church of Oneonta spoke about her loss Friday in Otsego County Court. The comments came as Church, 33, was sentenced by Otsego County Judge Brian Burns to two-to-four years in state prison for second-degree vehicular manslaughter.
Man admits guilt in fatal crash
COOPERSTOWN — A Middletown man will be sentenced next month on a vehicular manslaughter charge, Otsego County court officials said.
Davenport to hold primary Tuesday
Town of Davenport Supervisor Todd Rider will face a challenge from former town Justice Barbara Elmore in Tuesday's Republican primary. The town has not had a contested race for supervisor in nearly 20 years.
GOP candidates vying to represent Hancock
The town of Hancock will hold a Republican primary Tuesday in the race for town supervisor. Incumbent Supervisor Michael M. Salvatore will square off against Samuel Rowe.
A dream from a land down under
Meeting Men at Work was a childhood dream, and on the day it happened, I proudly admit that I was nothing but a raging groupie in reporter's clothing.
Friday, September 7, 2001
Firm chooses Pony Farm over railyard
ONEONTA — A Delaware County company has decided the Pony Farm Industrial Park, not the former D&H railyard, is the best site for its relocation to Oneonta. Officials for Colchester Holdings Inc. of Downsville said Thursday that a lack of infrastructure at the Oneonta River Corp. Industrial Park, located off Chestnut Street in the city, has forced them to look to Pony Farm in the town as a new location.
Hanley to defend title against challenger
The primary battle pitting seasoned incumbent Joseph P. Hanley vs. the president of the Delaware County Fair, John Jackson, will take place Tuesday as they take each other on for the right to represent Walton as town supervisor. As the showdown approaches, Walton voters must decide which Republican they want on the Delaware County Board of Supervisors. Without a Democrat running for the position, the primary will decide who will sit on the board for the next two years.
Otsego can apply for funds to help protect farmland
COOPERSTOWN - America's farmland is disappearing as pastures are cut up into housing tracts and shopping malls. But New York state is trying to preserve some of New York's best farms, a state official said.
Schools open, challenges ahead
DELHI — Not an out-of-place peep was heard from the patient fourth-grade pupils at Delhi Elementary School a few minutes after 9 a.m. Wednesday. As the four Delaware elementary fourth-grade teachers congregated in the hallway to discuss the upcoming school year, close to 80 pupils worked quietly, awaiting further instruction.
BOCES leaves Moose Lodge
ONEONTA — Fueled by angry phone calls from parents, ONC BOCES officials decided Wednesday not to have a special education class at the Oneonta Moose Lodge. The site was chosen after Otsego Northern Catskills Board of Cooperative Educational Services officials said they realized space at the former St. Mary's School in Oneonta that was to be used wasn't ready for students.
Area teacher's class was a circus ... really
UNADILLA — Being called a class clown takes on a different meaning when your students are in the circus. For seven months, Unadilla resident Jennifer Parmalee Mattocks traveled with her students from kindergarten through ninth grade, as a teacher for Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus.
Either way, it's a death sentence
COLUMBUS - The old blue pickup rattled down the driveway a half hour earlier than he had said, and we had just awakened. "He's here," Hon yawned, looking out the window. "And Bruce is with him." I just rolled over.
City no longer looking to hire security guards
ONEONTA — A year-old proposal to supplement the Oneonta Police Department with special officers has been moved down on the priority list, city officials said.
County ups spending in trash fight a fourth time
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives on Wednesday approved paying more for legal services in the fight against Waste Recovery Enterprise's solid waste transfer station in Unadilla.
90 percent of Oneonta students pass state Regents exams
ONEONTA — More than 90 percent of Oneonta students taking Regents exams passed during the 2000-01 school year, high school Principal Scott Rabeler said during Wednesday night's meeting of the Oneonta city school board.
Novice vs. mayor in Norwich GOP primary
Norwich Mayor Robert C. Raphael Jr. faces a challenge in Tuesday's Republican primary from political novice Marylou Stewart.
Parks enjoy August warmth
With everyone out of the water, state park managers can put some perspective on the summer season that ended on Labor Day, with a little help from the weatherman.
Wednesday, September 5, 2001
Hair today, gone tomorrow
ONEONTA — Six-year-old Parker Fish was patiently waiting his turn for a hair cut at Mac's Barber Shop in Oneonta while his mother, Alicia, watched. The little boy from Milford — his curly tufts of blond hair in need of a trim — was just one of an endless stream of young male clients whose parents brought them in for that "first day of school" haircut on Tuesday.
In session: Area teachers prep for year
Opening day is here. With thousands of students returning to classes at local schools today, school officials met with teachers Tuesday to lay out plans for the year. The districts are different, but the messages are similar: Work together, be resourceful and protect students no matter what. Oneonta City School District Superintendent James C. Piscitelli, along with school board members, met with teachers from the high school, middle school and the four elementary schools Tuesday morning in the high school auditorium.
State passes some relief
ALBANY — New York lawmakers Tuesday averted the first statewide crisis as a result of this year's bare-bones budget by passing a spending bill.
Tiny tractors become a remote-controlled commodity
FLY CREEK - On Saturday and Sunday, when the big, vintage John Deeres, Fords and Farmalls come to the Cooperstown Rotary Club's Antique Tractor Fest in Fly Creek, a couple of smaller models will be on hand for youngsters to play with.
City adopts safety plan
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council on Tuesday approved the city's fall 2001 anti-violence plan, which corresponds to the recent arrival of college students.
Hobart man, 22, pleads innocent to rape, sodomy
DELHI — A Hobart man pleaded innocent in Delaware County Court on Tuesday to one count of second-degree rape and one count of second-degree sodomy, both felonies.
Fire destroys pizzeria, store
LEONARDSVILLE - A pizzeria and store on state Route 8 in Leonardsville was destroyed late Monday and early Tuesday despite the efforts of firefighters from several departments.
Group making case against youth prison
OTEGO — Two committees have been formed in Otego following several controversial meetings on building a youth prison in the town.
Union workers at Kraft threaten strike
WALTON — Unionized Kraft Foods employees will strike if agreeable terms are not presented at contract renegotiations, union representatives said Tuesday.
Tuessday, September 4, 2001
MDA telethon soars past $52,000
ONEONTA — With $52,868 raised for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the local Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon surpassed last year's total by more than $14,000, organizers said. "Everybody is exuberant," said Chuck Smith, the local telethon coordinator.
Delhi to offer new degree of 'adventure'
The State University College of Technology at Delhi will introduce an associate's degree in adventure recreation this fall, the first of its type in the SUNY system. "Adventure recreation is one of the fastest growing components of the tourism and recreation industry," said Candace Vancko, Delhi Tech president.
Changes in order for N.Y. schools
ALBANY — When Bob Dylan penned the legendary folk song "The Times They Are A-Changing" some 38 years ago, he wasn't thinking about public education in New York state. But when schools open their doors this week for the new academic year, that same refrain could very well apply.
Tuesday, September 4, 2001
Kids at heart of ice cream run
The Ice Cream Man persona was born the day 7-year-old Erin Seyforth came home from school in 1995 and asked her father what could be done for a boy in her class who was suffering from a rare bone cancer. Ray "Ice Cream Man" Seyforth, 52, from Hamden, told his daughter he would get together with some friends and see what could be done for the boy. The "Ice Cream Run for Kids' Sake" began as a modest motorcycle ride by Seyforth and his friends to raise money, and seven years later the event is still gaining momentum.
Disability doesn't slow him down
Dylon Mager is a 10-year-old from Meridale who will be in fifth-grade at Delaware Academy this fall. Like others kids his age, Dylon enjoys riding bikes, skate boarding, roller skating, sled riding and hanging out with his friends. But unlike his peers, he has 14 surgeries during the last seven years, had bone transplants and dealt with complications from surgery. Dylon's right leg is four inches shorter than his left.
SUCO sets fund-raising record
ONEONTA — It was another record-breaking year for the State University College at Oneonta's College Foundation and Alumni Annual Fund.
Murder suspect charged
A Walton man was jailed in Essex County on Friday for allegedly killing a Canadian man at a Northway rest area Thursday.
Four seriously hurt in crash
SHERBURNE — Three girls, their mother and grandmother were injured Friday in a two-car accident at an intersection in the town of Sherburne, Chenango County deputies said.
Breaking new (training) ground
ONEONTA — More than 15 area law enforcement officers are midway through their training as recruits at the Otsego County Law Enforcement Academy. The six-month, part-time academy is being held for the first time at the State University College at Oneonta, from June 12 to Jan. 12.
