Area officials call for improved disaster funding
ONEONTA — Money for training and communication is essential to ensure disaster preparedness, local emergency services officials said Thursday night. The 11 officials spoke to state Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, during a public hearing at the Holiday Inn in Oneonta for the New York State Senate Majority Task Force on State and Local Emergency Preparedness.
Andes tour a showcase for historic homes
Historic Victorian homes and the stories they have to tell, lush gardens and a hand-sculpted door are just a few of the highlights of the annual Cornell Cooperative Extension Spring Housing Tour in Andes on Saturday. The tour will begin at the Hunting Tavern Museum, where registration will begin at 8:30 a.m., according to Jeanne Darling, cooperative extension agent.
SUCO finds science dean
ONEONTA — An associate dean from Connecticut has been hired as new dean of behavioral and applied sciences at the State University College at Oneonta.
Brighter smiles on way at Delhi Central
Some students at Delhi Central School will have healthier teeth next year, thanks to a grant from the Rural Health Network of South Central New York. A $5,000 grant will allow the district to add a dental risk assessment and referral program to its 10-year-old Delaware Academy Student Health program, administered by Bassett Healthcare, officials said.
Lawyer: Family, arrests led to leaving
ONEONTA — The search continues for a replacement for city of Oneonta Assistant Prosecutor Kurt D. Schulte, who resigned his part-time position earlier this month.
Local artists put patriotism on display
A group of local artists who have expressed their reactions to Sept. 11 through paintings, collage and sculpture will debut their work today at the Hilton Bloom Art Studio in Gilberstsville.
Thursday, May 30, 2002
Fishin' gone
ONEONTA — David Sickler Sr. has been making the 10-mile trip from his Franklin home to the Oneonta city reservoir to fish for decades. But post-Sept. 11 restrictions on the Wilber Lake Road reservoir have made it impossible for Sickler, a Delaware County resident, to access the city's watershed property. Since April 1, people who have wanted to hike or fish at the reservoir have had to apply for a permit that, among other things, requires the applicant to be an Otsego County resident.
Vote to determine fate of village
ANDES — Andes village residents will decide Monday whether to dissolve their 137-year-old village. While two local groups have taken sides on the issue, village officials haven't been able to give many details about the impact of dissolution on taxes or services, and the Andes Town Board hasn't been involved.
Mentoring program enters its 5th year
Expanding children's horizons, building friendships and providing encouragement are just some of the tasks being completed by volunteers of the Oneonta City School District's mentoring program, organizers said.
Conservative seeks primary with Pataki
NEW YORK — Louis Wein, who ran for governor 12 years ago as a Right-to-Life Party candidate, said he hopes to force a Republican primary against Gov. George Pataki by tapping into what he considers "unrest" among upstate Conservatives.
Signers seek to further cause in ad
More than 300 local people signed a petition that appeared in The Daily Star, Friday, asking for alternatives to military action. "For myself, it's a way to make a very public statement," said Morris resident Paddy Lane, a founding member of Citizen's Alternative Voice, the group that organized the advertisement.
Leaders: Residents fed up with officials
Impetus for Monday's dissolution vote in Andes includes dissatisfaction with decisions made by elected officials and members of appointed village boards, two leaders said.
SUCO looks to get technical
ONEONTA — Making buildings wireless and using palm-held computers instead of laptops is just part of the plan for the State University College at Oneonta, according to Janet Potter, associate provost for library and information services at SUCO.
EPA: No filter needed on upstate water
New York City's sprawling upstate Catskill and Delaware reservoir systems are clean enough to allow the city to continue avoiding the filtration of water, the federal Environmental Protection Agency has determined.
Group to share AIDS message
When Oneonta residents Joanne and Donald Westcott's son, Joseph, died as a result of AIDS in 1988, the couple knew what had to be done. "We said, 'If there is anything at all we can do, we can save lives by going out and educating people,'" Joanne Westcott said.
Wednesday, May 29, 2002
ONC BOCES to lay off 35, maybe
For the second year in a row, the Otsego Northern Catskills Board of Cooperative Educational Services has informed more than 30 teachers and staff members that they might not have jobs in the fall. Last week, 35 members of the ONC BOCES staff received letters saying they will not be guaranteed a job when the 2002-03 school year begins in September, said the district's Deputy Superintendent Jeffrey Hahn.
'Barter' system gaining steam
ONEONTA — A barter system modeled after a successful program in Ithaca is gaining momentum locally, with about 80 people and businesses on board.
Man loses fee for field rental
ONEONTA — The owner of a traveling baseball team for teenagers says he was treated unfairly by Oneonta city officials who recently banned him from reserving city playing fields.
Larceny cases heard in Delaware court
DELHI — A Hancock man and a Sidney Center woman face charges of third-degree grand larceny in separate cases pending in Delaware County Court. Bo J. Angell, 18, of Hancock, appeared in court Monday and pleaded guilty to third-degree grand larceny.
Utilities to lift price freeze
A proposed agreement between the Public Service Commission, New York State Electric & Gas Corp. and other parties will lift a freeze on the cost of natural gas, but the delivery charge will remain frozen, officials said.
Postal office may reopen
SIDNEY — A postal substation may return to downtown Sidney as early as June 15, officials said. The process of relocating a contract postal substation in Sidney's business district that began last year is apparently nearing completion, officials said.
Tuesday, May 28, 2002
Corbin finds silver lining
Serge Corbin's golden touch turned silver Monday. Corbin, a 45-year-old resident of St. Boniface, Quebec, won his 25th C-2 Pro Class race at the 40th annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta. Corbin and teammate Jeff Kolka completed the 70-mile race from Cooperstown to Bainbridge in 7 hours, 19 minutes and 13 seconds.
Parties focus on prom safety
For high school juniors and seniors, the prom is a magical night — something to look forward to all year long. But as most teen-agers know, the night is not over when the dance ends. They flock to parties in droves, and fill parents' and teachers' heads with the fear their children will drink and drive.
Hartwick ranks high on student 'worldliness'
ONEONTA — Hartwick College students are among the most worldly in the nation, according to the Institute of International Education. Hartwick was ranked fourth among small four-year colleges by percentage of students who study abroad, said the IIE's recently released 2001 Open Doors Survey.
9l11 boosts M-Day attendance
ONEONTA — The first Memorial Day after 9/11 had greater-than-expected crowds at the annual ceremony to honor the nation's war dead, held Monday morning at Oneonta's Neahwa Park.
Speaker inspires Franklin
FRANKLIN — "Stand a little taller. Learn a little harder. Sing a little louder. Work a little harder. Care a little deeper. Add to our national pride," Franklin Central School principal Christine Pauksis told listeners during Franklin's Memorial Day ceremony on Monday.
Father, son walk away from plane crash
ROXBURY — A Greenville father and son escaped unharmed after their small plane crashed on a mountain between the towns of Roxbury and Halcott Monday on afternoon, officials said.
Sun shines on Hartwick grads
ONEONTA — Carole Scofield of Lafayette watched her third child graduate from Hartwick College Saturday morning. "This is kind of special," she said, resting after walking up to Elmore Field on Oyaron Hill, where the commencement was held.
Friday, May 24, 2002
Playground bunnies stars of school
ONEONTA — Eight additions to the elementary school playground at the new St. Mary's School in Oneonta are delighting teachers and parents almost as much as students. Not every school has a nest of brown-eyed, pink-eared newborn bunnies under its playground's main slide. After school Thursday, children and parents, some armed with cameras, smiled and exclaimed at the sight of the little, brown creatures.
Legion, VFW namesakes traced to WWI
Scores of people will line the streets for Memorial Day parades on Monday, but few will recognize the names on the banners of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts leading the line of marchers. Who were Truman C. Tobey, or Lt. Warren E. Eaton, or James D. Calhoun, or Slater and Silvernail?
Clear skies in forecast
ONEONTA — The fickle weather of late just may cooperate with the traditional outdoor activities that will accompany the Memorial Day weekend. Planning for a barbecue or even a walk in the park this last month has been a crap shoot, given the rain and cold weather that has dominated.
D&U to kick off season Saturday
ARKVILLE — The Delaware & Ulster Rail Ride's 2002 season will be one of the busiest and best, company officials said...
Dog adoption process starts at Sidney shelter
SIDNEY —The Sidney shelter that closed to the public last week over controversy surrounding the dogs seized in Deposit reopened Thursday, allowing the public to start adopting the animals, officials said.
Asbestos finding closes school
DELHI — Delhi Central School officials found out Thursday afternoon that the steam pipe that caused the fire in the school on Wednesday was wrapped with asbestos.
Troopers honor fallen comrades
SIDNEY — With the mournful sounds of "Amazing Grace" being played on bagpipes, state police in Sidney began an annual Memorial Day service Thursday to honor fallen officers.
Schumer calls for stockpile of vaccines
A U.S. senator from New York is making an effort to ease a vaccine shortage that is plaguing counties across the state. Local health-care officials, meanwhile, said although there is a shortage, it isn't serious enough to cause any major problems.
Waste Recovery landfill denied
A decision reached Thursday by a state appeals court supports an earlier ruling concerning the fate of a Unadilla waste company.
Thursday, May 23, 2002
Blaze closes school
DELHI — Five adults went to the hospital and one was to be admitted after a fire Wednesday at Delaware Academy, Delhi Central School Superintendent Maria Rice said. Rice, who was still at O'Connor Hospital awaiting treatment for smoke inhalation at 6 p.m., said the adults were to be checked at the hospital because of their proximity to the fire as they used extinguishers to put out the blaze caused by burning stage props.
Area growers stuck in a rut
This month's lower temperatures, record late frost and wet conditions could end up putting crops at risk in the area, local farmers and agricultural officials said. A cold front that blew into the Northeast late last week — dumping snow in some areas and leaving a coat of frost in others — has set the corn planting season back for Decatur farmer David Egeressy.
Residents honored for preserving history
When Cherry Valley resident Helen Rury became town and village historian a quarter of a century ago, it was at the urging of a friend, who told her, "you probably won't have to do anything." Now, hundreds of genealogies, museum projects and rededications later, Rury is being honored for her work.
Cuomo has 'failed scheme' - Muller
NEW YORK — Andrew Cuomo's surprise withdrawal from the state Democratic convention stunned local delegates sent to support him and gave supporters of his Democratic opponent some new ammunition.
Delaware GOP picks Becker to run for judge
DELHI — Carl Becker, 54, of Stamford was chosen to challenge Democratic Delaware County Judge Robert L. Estes for his position, Republican party officials said Wednesday.
Committee chooses candidates
DELHI — Dan Hooker won the Delaware County Republican Committee's endorsement for the new 127th Assembly district, committee Chairman Martin Donnelly said Wednesday.
Meeting tonight on housing subsidy
SIDNEY — First-time home-buyers in Sidney may be eligible for a $25,000 subsidy by the village if they purchase one of the Sherwood Heights homes expected to be completed by the fall, officials said.
Hartwick program ranks 4th
ONEONTA — According to the most recent 2001 Open Doors Survey conducted by the Institute of International Education, Hartwick College ranks fourth among small colleges in the nation in the percentage of students who study abroad.
Mother: Don't move high school program
ONEONTA — A local woman told the Oneonta City School District Board of Education on Wednesday night she's against a proposal to teach alternative education students at the high school. Alternative education students now attend the Upward Bound center in Milford.
Report: NYC water safe in Catskills
ALBANY — A government probe that found New York City's water supply was vulnerable to a terror attack ignored reservoirs in the Catskill region because they weren't a likely target, according to a report released over the weekend.
Wednesday, May 22, 2002
Delhi, CV lose at polls
For the second year in a row, voters said no Tuesday to the Delhi Central School District budget. Charlotte Valley and Sharon Springs districts also fell victim to the voters Tuesday night. Otherwise, 29 out of 32 area schools reported that voters passed their budgets. In Delhi, additional state aid and a one-time payment from the state that decreased the tax hike from 22.59 percent to 12.9 percent did not prevent 623 voters from voting no to the budget, Superintendent Maria Rice said.
Hinchey will face Boehlert, Bruno says
A spokesman for Rep. Sherwood Boehlert said Tuesday that the federally designed district lines, which officials say will most likely stand, "bode very well" for the Republican congressman from New Hartford. With Bruno and the Republican-controlled Senate unable to reach agreement on redistricting with Speaker Sheldon Silver and his majority Democrats in the Assembly, the proposal from special master Frederick Lacey will likely dictate lines for the 29 congressional races this fall, according to Bruno.
'Electric' farmer awarded
A retired dairy farmer from Mount Vision recently joined the ranks of former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Bob Bergland and Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy. Howard Marlette, 79, was given the George D. Aiken Award from the Northeast Association of Electric Cooperatives.
Crews working in city to fix Chestnut Street
ONEONTA — Road reconstruction is expected to wrap up this week on a stretch of Chestnut Street that has been plagued with problems for nearly eight years. Binghamton-based Bothar Construction is scheduled to finish re-paving a section of Chestnut, from Fonda Avenue to the city line at West End Avenue, later this week, city officials said.
Interim president named for Cobleskill Ag and Tech
An interim president was appointed Tuesday at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill by the State University of New York Board of Trustees.
Common Council reviews signage, zoning issues
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council on Tuesday reviewed a proposed change to the city's sign ordinance. After a public hearing on the ordinance change, in which no one spoke on the issue, aldermen tentatively voted to approve the proposal, which recommends that the zoning board of appeals should consider the distance between the street and a sign as a factor when reviewing individual cases.
Former justice may seek state seat
DELHI — A former Davenport town justice has changed her political party affiliation and may run for a state senate seat. Barbara Elmore, 63, of Davenport, who served for 13 years as a Republican town justice, appeared at the Delaware County Board of Elections on Tuesday and signed a voter registration card, changing her party affiliation to Democrat.
Draft set on area's growth potential
COOPERSTOWN - A consultant to three Otsego County municipalities studying the area's capacity for growth has prepared a draft generic environmental impact statement, which was released publicly Tuesday in Cooperstown.
Tuesday, May 21, 2002
Woman dies in head-on crash
HARPERSFIELD — A Harpersfield woman died Monday when her car drifted into the opposite lane of traffic and collided head-on with a vehicle driven by someone she knew. Anita E. Foote, 58, of Churchill Mountain Road was declared dead at the scene by Dr. Richard Ucci, Delaware County medical examiner. According to Capt. Kevin Molinari of state police at Oneonta, Foote had been traveling east on state Route 23 and Christine E. Bellinger, 49, of Wilcox Road in Harpersfield was headed west, when the cars struck head-on at about 11:35 a.m.
Area school votes today
Voters will go to polls today to decide the fate of local school budgets. Many will also have the opportunity to pull levers on school propositions and select members for boards of education.
BOCES student wins for website
It was business as usual for Milford BOCES student Will Nickerson, who recently won two awards at a state competition sponsored by the Future Business Leaders of America.
State police to check motorists for seat belts
It's time everyone starts obeying a law that's old enough to vote, state police said. Seat belts, proven to save lives, have been required by law since 1984, but 16 percent of New York motorists don't wear them, troopers said.
Brawl defendant gets five
COOPERSTOWN - Michael C. Lawson, 24, was sentenced in Otsego County Court on Monday to five years in state prison for the assault of SUCO student Isaiah Vail during the Feb. 10, 2001, brawl at the Oneonta parking garage.
Food For Thought series topics set
COOPERSTOWN — Paul D'Ambrosio, chief curator for the New York State Historical Association, will be the speaker at the Food For Thought lunch-and-lecture program on Wednesday.
4-H marks centennial anniversary
ITHACA — Stephen Johnson, director of Cornell University Government Affairs, recently presented state Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson, with an action plan developed by teens and adults that provides recommendations for improving their communities, as well as opportunities to increase youth involvement in decision-making areas.
Opposition rises for proposed baseball camp
WEST ONEONTA — A local businessman's proposal to build a baseball camp near state routes 23 and 205 met with strong opposition during Monday's Oneonta Town Planning board meeting.
Regents in action
Matt Dorosky, a senior at Stamford Central School, had to pass four Regents exams before he could even think about getting a diploma in June. But just one year ago, a graduate would have had to pass only two. And Cody Hager, a sophomore at Stamford, will need to pass five Regents exams, or standardized state tests, to get his diploma. The gradual increase in the number of tests students have to take is part of a movement by the state Education Department to up the graduation standards for students.
Regents are easier, school officials say
Despite higher standards, local educators say students may have an easier time passing the new Regents exams. When the state Education Department decided to up the number of Regents exams students have to take to graduate, it also revamped some of the test formats, basing them more on application of skills than memorization of facts.
Young authors praised for 'patriotic' writing
DELHI — Forty-four budding young writers from the Delhi Central School District were treated to lunch and showered with prizes Friday for participating in an essay contest.
Dog dispute shuts shelter
The Sidney shelter providing a temporary home to the scores of dogs seized in Deposit a week ago was closed to the public until further notice after a confrontation on Saturday, officials said Sunday.
Saturday, May 18, 2002
Woman pleads guilty in death
COOPERSTOWN — Sandra Bertsch was in jail Friday after pleading guilty to criminally negligent homicide and driving while ability impaired in a September accident that took the life of a Sprout Brook woman. Bertsch's sentencing was adjourned to July because she has been diagnosed and is being treated for malignant melanoma and is being tested for leukemia, but she asked if she could serve some of her potential jail time now to put against a sentence later.
Puppies finding homes
Puppies were going like hot cakes Friday at the Delaware Valley Humane Society, officials at the Sidney shelter said. People from towns and villages throughout the area went to the shelter to offer homes to the puppies taken from the home of Gerald and Geraldine Gates in Deposit.
Oneonta town to have hearing on Patton camp
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Town Planning Board will look for public input Monday on a proposal for the construction of a baseball camp near state routes 23 and 205.
Program set to mark 10 years
ONEONTA — They come here for companionship. For good conversation, and maybe a friendly debate with their neighbors. They come for good service, and smiling faces. And, of course, they come here for the food.
Delhi Central to get $1 million
DELHI — Taxpayers in the Delhi Central School District can breathe a partial sigh of relief, thanks to the efforts of state Sen. John J. Bonacic.
Students dance, drum to new beat
ONEONTA — The sounds of Africa were emanating from Riverside Elementary School this week. It's all about rhythm for Ken Sider's third-graders, who will spend the next week participating in drumming and dancing workshops and learning about traditional life in West African societies.
Dissent rises over proposed tax for library
The struggling Milford Free Library could provide Saturday hours and afford an assistant and better shelving if a tax proposal of $15,500 is passed by Milford Central School District voters Tuesday, library officials said.
Area school budget proposals
OXFORD — The Oxford Central School District Board of Education is proposing a .6 percent decrease in its budget for the 2002-03 school year.
Friday, May 17, 2002
Walton funeral driven by oxen
WALTON — Cecil Francisco's love of oxen was legendary, so it was fitting that a yoke of oxen pulled a wagon bearing his casket to the Walton Cemetery on Thursday afternoon. Francisco, of Delhi, was a past president of the New England Ox Teamsters Association and he and his wife, Beulah, donated their two yoke of oxen to The Farmers' Museum in Cooperstown two years ago.
Some area schools cutting taxes
Just five days before residents across the state vote on school budgets, new state aid figures released Thursday have some district officials lowering tax levies. But while the new aid figures — higher than those proposed by Gov. George Pataki in January — had some superintendents jumping for joy Thursday, others said the dollar amounts are a little less than desired.
Police probe burglary, thefts
ONEONTA — City of Oneonta police are continuing their investigation into an alleged gun-point robbery last week on Cliff Street.
Adoptions of puppies to start
SIDNEY — The puppies seized in Deposit last Saturday will be available for adoption this morning starting at 10, officials at the Sidney shelter said.
Building dedication set for Sidney village
SIDNEY — Several of the people and organizations that helped with the Getman Justice Building in Sidney will be honored at the building's dedication and open house at 10 a.m. Saturday. The building is located behind the Sidney Civic Center at 21 Liberty St.
Money found for local development
ALBANY — The new state budget includes hundreds of thousands of dollars for economic development projects in the Oneonta region, and potentially millions in tax incentives for businesses to move there.
City works to make park improvements
ONEONTA — The renovation of a lesser-known landmark, an upgraded road and added storage space are several improvements residents may notice when visiting Oneonta's city parks this summer.
SUCO to honor students, faculty
ONEONTA — Thousands of parents, family members and friends are expected to be on hand on Saturday to honor the Class of 2002 at the State University College at Oneonta's 113th Commencement.
Cobleskill Ag and Tech to honor 500 students
COBLESKILL — At its annual commencement ceremonies at 11 a.m. Saturday, the State University College of Agriculture Technology at Cobleskill will confer degrees on more than 500 students in bachelor's and associate's degree programs.
Delhi Tech to have 85th commencement
Randy A. Daniels, New York state's secretary of state and vice chairman of the SUNY board of trustees, will be the keynote speaker at the 85th annual commencement exercise at the State University College of Technology at Delhi.
Thursday, May 16, 2002
Grant makes way for Nesbitt razing
ONEONTA — Otsego County received a $600,000 state grant Wednesday for the demolition of the 75-year-old former West Nesbitt Feed Mill in Oneonta. The Market Street property has been targeted as the site for the estimated $37 million Orpheus Performing Arts and Conference Center. Lt. Gov. Mary Donohue was at the Otsego County Office Building on Main Street in downtown Oneonta to announce the grant, which the county applied for in April on behalf of the city.
Fatal DWI could end in plea deal
A motorist charged with drunken driving in a two-car crash that killed a Sprout Brook woman in September is expected to be sentenced Friday in a plea agreement made with the Otsego County district attorney.
Area school budget proposals
CHERRY VALLEY - Although the proposed 2002-03 budget of $9,145,498 for Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School is 4.9 percent less than this year's budget of $9,617,000, it calls for an increase of about 7.8 percent in the tax levy.
Dairy policy needs to be fixed
Once again the U.S. Congress has proved itself incapable of developing a fair and equitable farm policy, refusing to look at the cost of production of the various commodities.
Dogs await homes
SIDNEY — As the Sidney shelter awaits court papers granting ownership of the dogs seized in Deposit on Saturday, the numbers increase.
Youth prison not in budget
ALBANY — The almost $73 million that Gov. George Pataki proposed for a youth prison in this region has been cut from the budget, lawmakers said Wednesday.
School pact set in 3 days
WELLS BRIDGE — Unatego Central School made recent history. Teachers and district officials settled their contract last month in just three days — two months before the contract expires June 30.
Furniture from Godley estate to be auctioned
The Morris Rotary Club has been given a large quantity of furniture from a prominent local resident's estate to be sold at the club's auction in Morris on Friday.
Wednesday, May 15, 2002
Delhi trucker returns home as a free man
DELHI — Shannon E. Jones is at home, on state Highway 28 in the town of Delhi, after spending 20 days locked up in a Georgia jail on felony charges that were unfounded. Jones' former girlfriend, Kittena Shaddix, also known as Ronda Pate and at least a dozen other variations of both names, accused him of beating her and holding her hostage for months. Jones, 26, was arrested April 20 and charged with aggravated assault. On April 24, he was charged with kidnapping. On Friday, following a court hearing in which Shaddix's story was discredited, those two charges were dismissed.
Dog owner pleads innocent
DEPOSIT — The dogs confiscated this week by the town of Deposit will soon be adoptable in Sidney.
State ready to raise sportsmen's fees
ALBANY — Gov. George Pataki has been trying for years to raise the price of sporting licenses, insisting the extra money was needed to cover the rising costs of state conservation programs. Yet, no matter how important Pataki claimed his proposed fee hikes were to the existence of hunting and fishing programs statewide, political opposition and protests from powerful lobby groups always stood in the way. It appears the governor may finally get his way.
Open house displays OHS' student spirit
ONEONTA — More than 300 community residents saw what the students of Oneonta High School have to offer during an open house Tuesday at the school. Parents of students — some of them former OHS students themselves — and other members of the community attended the event, which was sponsored by the student council.
City IGA back bar moratorium
ONEONTA — The proposed moratorium on new bars is gaining support among members of the city's Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. Committee members said Monday they are behind the Planning Commission's recent proposal but would like to make it a little less restrictive.
Greene suspect arraigned
A Greene man arrested last week for allegedly sending child pornography over the Internet, was arraigned Monday, court officials said.
Rapist gets probation in plea agreement in Delaware court
DELHI -— A Walton man pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court on Monday to second-degree rape. Joel S. Klinegardner Jr., 21, agreed to plead guilty to the second count of a four-count indictment in exchange for a sentence of probation.
Calls come in for confiscated dogs; no charges yet
SIDNEY — More than a dozen people called the Sidney animal shelter by Monday afternoon seeking to adopt one of the nearly 100 dogs seized for licensing and cruelty reasons from a Deposit home over the weekend, officials said. Any such action is awaiting a decision by the Deposit Town Court, said Julie Byrnes president of the Delaware Valley Humane Society.
Redistricting plan would pit Boehlert vs. Hinchey
ALBANY — Reps. Sherwood Boehlert and Maurice Hinchey would have to run against each other in one of two "fair fights" proposed Monday by a federal master overseeing the redistricting of congressional lines in New York.
Bush OKs farm bill
In a move criticized by some politicians and hailed by others, President Bush signed a 10-year, $190 billion farm bill Monday morning that expands subsidies to growers. Locally, politicians and agriculture officials said the bill will give local dairy farmers a monetary boost when milk prices fall.
Area grad finds way as volunteer
When Natalie Shaffer wanted to find herself, she knew exactly where to look. "I've always been told you truly find yourself when you lose yourself in service," the Schenevus Central School graduate said Monday. And Shaffer would know. Since January, the 20-year-old has been living in Utah, first working at a homeless shelter and now working on health-care issues for the disadvantaged.
No state spending bills approved
ALBANY — Despite hopes that state lawmakers would begin passing a new budget Monday, not a single spending bill was approved. Nonetheless, New York's legislative leaders seemed confident that this year's budget impasse — which now stands at 44 days — is on the verge of coming to an end.
Travels With Uncle Chet: Chat as the pole barn rises
COLUMBUS - Uncle Chet and Cousin Bruce rolled into the driveway early Saturday, the day we were going to start the pole barn. "I brought wine, for lunch," said Uncle Chet. "And your tool belt, I hope." "If you've got shade, I'll supervise," he said. "But the former shipper-receiver will do the heavy lifting for me." "That's me," Bruce smiled and I noticed his front tooth was fixed. I hadn't seen him in months and he'd filled out a little.
Southside tractor store reopens
ONEONTA — The business known for years as Central Tractor Farm and Family Center in Oneonta reopened Monday under new ownership. Hundreds of customers, many of them long-time patrons of Central Tractor, visited the new Tractor Supply Co. store on Southside for its grand opening. "We still have three hours to go and we've already had just under 300 customers walk through the door," said store Manager Jeff Prior on Monday afternoon.
Unadilla man faces 28 felonies
DELHI — A Unadilla man was charged with 28 felonies after Delaware County Judge Robert Estes opened a sealed indictment in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Monday, May 13, 2002
100 dogs taken from Deposit home
A Deposit dog warden confiscated 87 dogs and 13 puppies over the weekend from a rural home, but it's not clear what charges will be filed against the Beebe Hill Road couple who live there. The animals, which included about five that were pregnant, were brought to the Delaware Valley Humane Society in Sidney, where they will remain at least until they are examined by a veterinarian on Wednesday, shelter officials said.
Class sends trout swimming up river
STAMFORD — Swim little fishy, swim as fast as you can, you're at the headwaters of the West Branch of the Delaware and it's a long way to the Cannonsville dam. Madonna Staiber's third-grade class at Stamford Central School released 50 5-inch-long fingerling brown trout into the river on Friday afternoon.
Deer-herd meetings scheduleddeer
The state Department of Environmental Conservation is sponsoring a series of public meetings to discuss the status of the state's white-tailed deer herd and inform hunters and others about changes to deer- management policies.
Two from SUCO get SUNY awards
ONEONTA — Two faculty members from the State University College at Oneonta have been named as recipients of the 2002 SUNY Chancellor's Awards for Excellence.
Downsville
DOWNSVILLE — The proposed 2002-03 Downsville Central School District budget increased by 9.56 percent, or $530,871, said Superintendent Robert Mackey
Saturday, May 11, 2002
`It's just me and him'
ONEONTA — Everyone has an image of Mom. In the 1950s, the image was of a stay-at-home mother who cooked, cleaned and devoted her entire life to caring for her family. In the 1980s, Mom was a working woman, wearing power suits and juggling day care with a job. Now, in a new century, there is a new image — that of a single, teen-age mom, struggling to complete school while providing for a baby.
Charges against Delhi truck driver dropped
Most charges were dropped Friday against a truck driver from Delhi who was accused of holding his girlfriend captive for months while they traveled in his tractor-trailer from New York to Tennessee.
American dream come true
ONEONTA — Co-workers, family and friends helped an Oneonta nursing home employee celebrate the red, white and blue Friday afternoon. Tesfay Haile, a housekeeper at A.O. Fox Memorial Nursing Home in Oneonta, was sworn in as a U.S. citizen at a ceremony in Binghamton on Friday morning.
Sidney school reviews technology project
SIDNEY — Plans to network computers between the five buildings in the Sidney Central School system are on hold as an outside consultant examines the project, school officials said Wednesday.
Seniors honored for volunteer work in Otsego County
ONEONTA — Don Boughton, Caroline Bassler and Gil Sherman share a characteristic: They enjoy giving of themselves. This common thread earned them recognition this week for being outstanding senior citizen volunteers in Otsego County.
CV-S busy bee gets A+ from Coke
CHERRY VALLEY - Alexis Saba, 17, valedictorian of the class of 2002 at Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School, said she wants to help save the natural world. To do that, she plans to study environmental law at Williams College in Williams, Mass., — for which she recently received a $20,000 scholarship from the Coca-Cola Co. Before the scholarships were awarded, 250 of the nation's best high school students were interviewed over four days in Atlanta, Ga., by representatives of the corporation.
Residents question repaving
ONEONTA — A construction project scheduled for the town of Oneonta has some area residents in a state of road rage. The project, which is set to begin in the summer of 2003, will repave state routes 7 and 23 (Oneida and Chestnut streets) in the town, and add new curbs, sidewalks, drains and water lines, state Department of Transportation officials said.
Judge on the run in Otsego
COOPERSTOWN - Michael Coccoma said he loves to run. In 1980, his brother-in-law encouraged him to entered a five-kilometer race in Rochester.
Child porn charges lodged
A Greene man remained jailed on $500,000 bail Thursday after his arrest Wednesday for allegedly sending child pornography over the Internet, law enforcement officials said.
Drought watch in Chenango County lifted
A drought watch for Chenango County has been lifted because of improved precipitation in recent weeks, but Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie counties remain under a drought warning.
State gives $50,000 grant to academy based at SUCO
ONEONTA — A $50,000 state grant will provide law enforcement equipment for the Otsego County Law Enforcement Academy at the State University College at Oneonta.
State: Walton needs to update records system
WALTON — A state audit of the town of Walton financial records indicated the town supervisor, with oversight by the town board members, should update the town's record keeping and financial reporting methods.
Thursday, May 9, 2002
Stamford singers' 'Field of Dreams'
STAMFORD — East side, west side, either side of town, Sarah Bell just wants to belt out a song in a stadium, and a series of unusual circumstances joined forces this week to make the Stamford student's dream come true.
School-board incumbents running lonely races
For some local board of education electoral candidates, the race will be easy this year. That's because in several districts, candidates will be running uncontested.
K-9 officer missed in Otsego County
COOPERSTOWN - Pete, the canine officer, died a week ago today at the age of 8, and his human partner, Otsego County Sheriff's Deputy Hank Sheldon, is in mourning. "He was with me day and night, and I can't tell you how much I miss him," said Sheldon, 44. The sheriff's department is going to hold a funeral service in a week or so, he said. Pete died of cancer.
Hartwick names 'Citizen Laureate'
ONEONTA — Morris resident Merritt L. "Bud" Bridges didn't attend Hartwick College. Yet Friday night, Hartwick President Richard Detweiler named Bridges "Citizen Laureate" for his generosity to the college.
Student art on display at UCCCA
ONEONTA — An exhibition of art work by Oneonta High School and Middle School students is being held at Wilber Mansion through Saturday.
Delaware Baord Oks computer funding
DELHI — Seven of the Delaware County Sheriff's Department patrol cars will be equipped with laptop computers, thanks to a $15,000 grant from the federal Edward Byrne Memorial Anti-Drug Abuse Act Program.
Reps look at nursing shortage
COOPERSTOWN - State officials have suspended a gross receipts tax on nursing homes that would have cost Otsego County about $40,000 this month.
Oneonta `Spirit' to run primarily in city
ONEONTA — This summer, the city of Oneonta's trolley is not going to venture far from the city during its 40-minute route. And this, according to one downtown merchant, is exactly as it should be.
Wednesday, May 8, 2002
'Spider-man' ensnares area viewers
ONEONTA — Oneonta is all caught up in a web of excitement over the tale of a dorky teen-ager who gains super powers after being bitten by a genetically altered spider. Nearly 40 years after Spider-Man — the comic book — was introduced to the public, "Spider-Man" — the big-budget movie — has hit theaters in a big way. The record-busting movie grossed a whopping $114 million in its first three days in the theaters, Friday through Sunday.
Trucker sees sign that saves his life
ONEONTA — David Buchanan owes his life to some blue signs with a big white "H" on them along the highway. The truck driver from Randolph said without those signs on Interstate 88, he may never have gotten to A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital early Monday morning, where doctors hurriedly removed his gallbladder.
Oneonta to let state know of activities at bar
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council decided Tuesday night to send a letter to the New York State Liquor Authority expressing concern over the re-issuance of a liquor license to The Copper Fox.
Meeting set to review sale of school buildings
Voters in the Unadilla Valley Central School District will have an opportunity to have questions answered Thursday about the proposed sale of two buildings and a land parcel, which will be on the upcoming ballot, school officials said Tuesday.
Librarian puts retirement on hold
SIDNEY — The days of asking patrons to pay library fines are nearly over for Janice Vartuli. After 27 years as the director of the Sidney Memorial Library, Vartuli has retired from the position effective April 26, but will stay on until a replacement is found.
Sheriff Mills announces run for re-election
DELHI — Delaware County Sheriff Thomas Mills stood on the steps of the county jail and sheriff's department on Tuesday morning to announce his run for re-election.
Murder suspect pleads innocent
NORWICH — An Oxford man charged with murdering his wife was arraigned Monday morning in Chenango County Court in Norwich. Standing before Judge W. Howard Sullivan with his attorney by his side, Peter Wlasiuk, 33, pleaded innocent to second-degree murder in the death of his wife, Patricia, 35, which occurred sometime between 11:30 p.m. April 2 and 12:30 a.m. April 3.
OHS considers holding 'alternative' high school
ONEONTA — Running an alternative high school within the Oneonta High School may benefit students and save the district money, school officials said Monday. High School Principal Scott Rabeler and Nichola Wilson, guidance counselor, said they plan to propose the idea to the Oneonta City Board of Education during the regular meeting at Valleyview Elementary School at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Council honored for cleanup
NORWICH — A federal agency has taken note of cleanup efforts by a Norwich group. The Chenango County Environmental Council, which has been striving to clean up local rivers, recently was recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency for its work.
Attorney: Beer Barrel to sue city of Oneonta
ONEONTA — The owner of The Beer Barrel Inn in Oneonta is suing the city zoning board over its decision not to allow construction changes to the bar, an attorney representing the bar said Monday.
Bassett clinic to close
Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown will no longer provide its Chronic Pain Management Services clinic, hospital officials confirmed Friday.
Energy independence not near, panel says
ONEONTA — The United States isn't going to gain energy self-sufficiency any time soon, according to an economist, a professor of chemistry and an environmental activist who spoke Monday at the Autumn Cafe.
NAACP honors lawyers in brawl case
Two defense lawyers in the parking garage brawl case have been honored by the Oneonta chapter of the NAACP for their dedication to further the cause of civil rights.
Monday, May 6, 2002
Preserving the homestead
HOBART — Fairvale Farm will always remain virtually unchanged, and that thrills Jim Lamport, who said he loves his farm just the way it is. Jim and Nore Lamport of Hobart are the first Delaware County farm owners to sell the development rights on their land to the Watershed Agricultural Council's Easement Program. "Of course, I was happy the day we got the money because my debt's gone, but more because now we can leave the land the way we found it," said Jim Lamport.
Family receives service award
ONEONTA — One family can make a difference in a community. On Sunday, the College at Oneonta Foundation honored one such group, the Parisians, at a special ceremony at Hunt College Union Ballroom at the State University College at Oneonta.
Teen's art brightens billboard
DELHI — A billboard featuring a boy with outspread arms, admiring a sun setting behind color-splashed mountains, is intended to grab the attention of passers-by on state Route 28 north of Delhi.
City moves to clean up downtown
ONEONTA — Merchants haven't been talking trash about downtown Oneonta since city officials hired more workers to clean up garbage there.
Schools get CWC funds
MARGARETVILLE — Thirty Education Grants totaling $149,840 were approved by the Catskill Watershed Corp. Board of Directors on April 23.
Delaware chamber re-elects 4
The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce held its annual election of board members last month.
Couple to reopen Unadilla Diner
UNADILLA — The coffee will soon be flowing again at the Unadilla Diner. The Main Street landmark in the village has been closed for about two years but is scheduled to reopen May 15 under new ownership.
Saturday, May 4, 2002
City eyes moratorium on bars
ONEONTA — The city of Oneonta Planning Commission has called for a six-month moratorium on the establishment of new bars so it can legislate more control over them. According to the draft of the moratorium, the commission feels the number of bars downtown and the related "destructive behavior by patrons" is creating a negative impact on downtown.
Otsego rep changes party, may seek state seat
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives tilted more Republican on Friday as Rep. James Powers, 49, of Butternuts switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party.
Local family to be honored
ONEONTA — The State University College at Oneonta Foundation will honor Al and Margaret Parisian of Oneonta and their family with its Distinguished Service Award.
County to look at bids
COOPERSTOWN - The county board has received bids from contractors for building its new nursing home on state Route 28 just south of Cooperstown.
Coach reflects on his career
COOPERSTOWN - When Coach Walsh gets up in the morning, he charges up and down the stairs in his house on Walnut Street in Cooperstown. For 20 minutes, he runs, stretches, does sit-ups and works up a lather the way he told his football players to for 30 years at Manhasset High School.
Foal brings class to life
DELHI — Birth announcements weren't necessary when Delhi's Time of Pride arrived in the world at 10:45 p.m. April 16, because everyone was already gathered for the colt's birth. Pride, as he is affectionately known, is the first foal to be born at the State University College of Technology at Delhi in more than 15 years, according Janna Basmajian, veterinary science instructor. In 2001, a course was developed after students asked for an opportunity to work with horses. Basmajian said the students spent hours refurbishing the horse barn, which hadn't been used in years.
Norwich gets grant for weather radio
NORWICH — The city of Norwich has received a federal grant to purchase and install an official weather radio transmitter.
Friday, May 3, 2002
Pastor arrested in Syracuse has local history
SIDNEY — A Sidney Center mother has told state police at Sidney that a Baptist minister who was arraigned in Liverpool on Wednesday on a sexual abuse charge had molested her daughter in late 1994, when he was a reverend at the Sidney Center Baptist Church.
Lawmakers unveil some budget stats
ALBANY — Education aid would increase by slightly more than a half-billion dollars, and Otsego County would receive help in attracting new businesses if terms of a tentative state budget deal hold up.
SUCO honors local teachers for training
ONEONTA — Patricia Branigan said she loves her job teaching foreign languages at Sidney High School. "It's not just a job for me, it's a passion," she said. "Sometimes things get put on the back burner because I am so passionate about learning foreign languages."
Hinchey's district in Pataki's sights
ALBANY — Gov. George Pataki has entered the congressional redistricting fray with some plans of his own, House Republican sources said, and appears to be targeting Rep. Maurice Hinchey's district.
Schenevus man seeks 127th District seat
SIDNEY — A second candidate announced his run for the Republication nomination for the state's newly formed 127th Assembly District on Thursday. Daniel Hooker threw his hat in the ring, with stops that will continue today in each of the seven counties in the district.
Defendant is no-show in hearing on crash
ONEONTA - Sandra Bertsch did not appear at Thursday's state Department of Motor Vehicles hearing in Oneonta, held to investigate the circumstances surrounding a fatal two-car accident of Sept. 8.
Passenger train to Binghamton derailed
ALBANY — Proposed passenger train service between Binghamton and New York City, using existing rail routes, would be too expensive and too slow to make it worthwhile, state transportation officials announced Thursday.
UCCCA to feature folk arts
ONEONTA — The public can get a glimpse into the activities and traditions of six of Oneonta's community groups during an event at Wilber Mansion on Saturday.
Thursday, May 2, 2002
Dairy tanker upends in Delhi
DELHI — West Platner Brook ran white on Wednesday morning after a milk tanker overturned on the bank, spilling milk and diesel fuel into the fast-flowing stream. Edward Walley, 45, of Delhi, was traveling on West Platner Brook Road in the town of Delhi, driving a Mitch Sprague Trucking Inc. milk tanker, witnesses said. As he approached the intersection of county Route 16, he went off the right side of the road, rolled the truck and landed upside down near the bottom of the bank against a tree, they said.
Client: D.A. is failing me
COOPERSTOWN - A Sprout Brook man, whose wife died in a two-car accident Sept. 8 in Middlefield, wants Otsego County District Attorney William "Jack" Gibbons to seek new indictments against the driver of the other car.
Cooperstown senior given 'Liberty Bell'
COOPERSTOWN — Cooperstown High School senior Nicholas A. Coccoma is this year's Otsego County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award winner.
Federal bill to help N.Y. dairy farmers
Dairy and apple farmers in the Southern Tier should get a $28 million stimulus package from the recently completed federal Farm Bill, according to Sen. Charles E. Schumer.
Tentative budget deal reached
ALBANY — Gov. George Pataki and the state's legislative leaders announced late Wednesday a tentative agreement on a new state budget.
State to honor memory, work of Delhi senator
ALBANY -— Final passage was given Wednesday to a bill renaming the state Office of Rural Health after the late Republican state senator Charles D. Cook of Delhi.
March to Albany left some walkers with blisters, high spirits
DELHI — When the Under the Influence Keg Roll arrived in Albany on Monday, participants said thoughts of tired, blistered feet evaporated as television cameras rolled and politicians noted the achievement of the dedicated walkers.
Theft, DWI on Delaware docket
DELHI — Theft, drunken driving and drug possession cases were heard in Delaware County court this week. Defendants who appeared before Judge Robert Estes on Monday included:
Hartwick students protest
ONEONTA — About 25 Hartwick College students protested outside Yager Hall on campus Wednesday afternoon, demanding more involvement in the administrative decision process.
Wednesday, May 1, 2002
April showers didn't wash away 2001 drought
ONEONTA — April's above-normal precipitation will not be enough to make up for the dry weather conditions of the past year, area weather officials said Tuesday. "We're going to go over in April, but we're just catching up," said John Bramley, a National Weather Service observer in Delhi.
Area schools scrambling to meet costs
Roxbury Central School district can't afford much-needed new windows. Bainbridge-Guilford and Stamford are cutting staff positions. Worcester is scrimping on supplies and field trips for next year. And that's with tax hikes reaching as high as 23 percent. "This is my ninth or 10th year doing budgets, and I have never seen anything like this," said Joseph Beck, superintendent of Stamford Central School.
Woman: Delhi `captive' got a tan
DELHI — Katina Shaddix, who said she was imprisoned by a truck driver from the area, was in Delhi last month for a tanning session, a local business owner said.
New districts split Otsego three ways
COOPERSTOWN - New state Assembly district lines have been drawn and Otsego County, like Gaul before it, has been divided into three parts.
Sidney airport plans upgrade
SIDNEY — More improvements will soon be touching down at the Sidney municipal airport, thanks to expected financial assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration, village officials said.
Student awarded for art
A ninth-grader at Unadilla Valley Central School won first place this week in an annual art competition that includes work from students around the 23rd Congressional District.
Much ado about nothing in Delaware court
DELHI — Three cases to be heard in Delaware County Court on Monday were sidelined when one defendant failed to show up, another defendant was injured and asked for a postponement and a third man wasn't ready to proceed with his case.
GOP still to choose candidate
DELHI — The Delaware County Republican Committee will not decide who to back in the race for county judge until May 21.
Town aims to acquire Oneonta park land
ONEONTA — Town of Oneonta officials plan to breathe new life into a forgotten park on Glens Bridge Road, town board members said Monday.
State law enforcement officers to vote on union
ALBANY — About 1,100 state law enforcement officers, including State University campus police, will get to vote again to decide which union will represent them.
