For witches, Halloween is a holiday
"It's fun to dress up in witch's gear," Oneonta potter Jennifer Kemper said. Unlike the average person celebrating Halloween today, however, Kemper can offer an expert's opinion on the subject — she is a witch. "I am a minister and a witch," she said. For her, Halloween — or Samhain, as it is called in the Wiccan religion she has practiced for about 15 years — is one of several holidays observed during the year. The word "witch," she said, is Old English for '`wise" and applies to any practitioner of witchcraft, including followers of Wicca. As a day when the dead are remembered, the holiday has a serious side. When she attends a service with her study group today, she said they will light candles in memory of those deceased. "It's a joyful time, because we know their spirits are still there," she said. "We can communicate with the dead."
Judge race: Family matters
DELHI — Delaware County's judge spends the majority of his time in family court, where 80 percent of the caseload is handled. Republican Carl "Fritz" Becker is challenging Democratic incumbent Robert "Bob" Estes for the 10-year judge position that pays $119,800 annually. The county judge handles criminal, surrogate and family courts.
Hawk to have chance to fly
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - A red-tailed hawk is alive today, thanks to the efforts of two town of Richfield brothers. "We were out four-wheeling Monday, and I thought I saw something fall out of the sky," said Butch Duncan. They found the injured hawk in a hedgerow near county Route 25. "We went to look and there it was, on the ground, kind of flopping around. You could see it was hurting.
Stabbing suspect retains garage-brawl lawyer
ONEONTA — The Hartwick College sophomore accused of stabbing a classmate has hired the lawyer who successfully defended a SUCO student charged in the 2001 parking garage brawl case.
Two more join in redistrict suit
NORWICH - Two members of the Otsego County Board of Representatives have submitted affidavits supporting a lawsuit to keep their board's redistricting plan off the Nov. 5 ballot. Democratic Reps. Kevin Hodne of Oneonta and Richard Thompson of Milford joined Wednesday with petitioners Henry "Hank" Nicols and Patricia Carey, who have sued in state Supreme Court to scuttle the proposed redistricting plan.
Birnie Bus starts Otsego routes today
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's reduced public bus service will begin today under new operator Birnie Bus of Rome. The route that runs between Cooperstown and Oneonta on routes 205 and 11, will remain the same.
Loved ones give back to cancer patient
ONEONTA — Family and friends of area teacher Donna Thienpont are mustering financial and moral support to aid in Thienpont's battle against leukemia. Thienpont, a teacher in the Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School District for 23 years, is a patient at a Boston-area hospital, where she is awaiting a life-saving bone marrow transplant.
Seniors get new way to claim exemption
COOPERSTOWN - The state's School Tax Relief exemption program for senior citizens will offer residents who are 65 or older a new way to claim their $50,000 property tax exemption this fall. "They can do what they have been doing, or they can authorize the state Department of Taxation to verify their income every year," said Steve Child, Otsego County's Real Property Tax director.
Wednesday, October 30, 2002
Ghoulish gatherings
Several area communities have parades and parties planned for the annual Halloween enjoyment of their ghosts, goblins and other costumed creatures. Oneonta: The annual parade will be Thursday on Main Street. The parade will form at 6:15 p.m. on Walnut and Elm streets, organizers said. Judging will follow at 6:45 p.m., with prizes awarded for the best costumes. Paraders will step off at 7 p.m. and go along Main Street. After the parade, cider and doughnuts will be served to paraders in the municipal parking garage, where participants may be picked up. For more information, call John D. Barclay at 432-0010. The yearly event is sponsored by the Del-Otsego Sertoma, and the Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions clubs of Oneonta.
Holidays could be lean locally
ONEONTA — It won't be anything personal, but people may not be getting as many gifts from loved ones this Christmas. Some area residents are saying a dismal economy could put a crimp in their holiday shopping plans. "I've noticed a lot of prices have gone up, and I'd say it's going to cut back on how much people get from me," said Amanda Ventura of Oneonta.
Residents: Enforce parking in city
ONEONTA — The city needs more parking, or at least better enforcement of what is already available, some residents told city officials Monday. About 10 people, most of them members of the downtown business community, attended a public meeting on a city-wide parking study that began two weeks ago. Transportation Concepts of Schenectady is conducting the study to look at how available spaces are used and by whom. Strategies for managing existing parking and suggestions for additional parking will also be included.
Board candidate seeks write-in votes
MIDDLEFIELD CENTER - Robert "Bud" Tabor's name will not be on the ballot next week, although he's running for election to the Middlefield Town Board.
Nursing shortage gets boon in grant
ONEONTA — State Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, unveiled a $100,000 grant Tuesday to help alleviate the nursing shortage. The $100,000 grant, named after the late Sen. Charles Cook, a Hartwick College graduate, will help fund a nursing education partnership among Hartwick, the State University College of Technology at Delhi and Bassett Healthcare.
Hospital gets funds
Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton was awarded a $50,000 job preservation grant at the Catskill Watershed Corp.'s Oct. 23 meeting, according to Diane Galusha, CWC communication director.
Assembly candidates square off in forum for 111th
ONEONTA — Candidates for the 111th District seat in the state Assembly fielded questions about budget deadlines, upstate jobs and Medicaid, among other issues, during a forum Tuesday night. Incumbent Bill Magee, D-Nelson, and political newcomer Roger Dorn, a Republican from Oneonta, met during a candidate forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters at the State University College at Oneonta.
Police to quicken ticket writing
ALBANY — Pretty soon, the longtime practice of police writing out traffic tickets will make way to a point, click and scan. The state is giving the go-ahead for cops to put away their ticket books and pull out their Palm Pilots to cite speeders and others who violate the rules of the road.
Halt put on Cooperstown B&Bs
COOPERSTOWN - The village has adopted a 90-day moratorium on the expansion or construction of bed and breakfasts. The measure, which took effect Friday, is meant to allow officials to review this aspect of the village's thriving tourism business, Mayor Carol Waller said Tuesday. "During this time, we're not going to sit still," Waller said. "Our planning board will be examining our laws to see how we can control the development of B&Bs more closely."
No answers for farmers at meeting
MORRISVILLE — Anyone expecting Monday's meeting to solve dairy farmers' pricing problems would have been disappointed. "I didn't come into this meeting thinking we were going to find a solution," said Bill Magee, D-Nelson, chairman of the Assembly's Agriculture Committee. More than 150 people listened to a panel discuss the causes of low milk prices Monday. The meeting, organized by Magee, was held at Madison Hall at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Morrisville. Instead, he said, the purpose was to provide answers for farmers about such topics as oversupply and imports that affect dairy prices. "I wish we had a Barry Bonds of the dairy industry that could correct things with one swing of the bat, but we don't," said Ed Gallagher, president of the Dairylea Cooperative.
He 'left a bloody handprint'
ONEONTA — A Hartwick College sophomore accused of attacking a fellow student with two steak knives is being held in Otsego County jail on $50,000 bail and has been suspended from school. Nineteen-year-old Damien Charlton, who was charged with first-degree assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, was arraigned Monday morning before acting City Court Judge William Atchinson Jr.
New county maps take you higher
COOPERSTOWN - Did you ever wonder what your farm, or lot, or city block might look like from the air? If you live in Otsego County, you can find that out, and a lot more. New York state has photographed this region from low-flying airplanes, and the county's Geographical Information Services department can produce custom-made maps in various sizes.
Teens charged in county court
DELHI — Four Delaware County teenagers were arraigned in County Court on Monday for crimes that occurred in the village of Sidney. Emmon P. Johnson, 18, of Sidney was charged with first-degree sex abuse for allegedly subjecting another person to sexual contact by forcible compunction. According to court documents, the charge stems from incidents that took place at Sidney High School from October to November 2001, involving children under age 11.
Memories get better home in garden
ONEONTA — Several Oneonta High School choral groups will sing tonight to raise money for the school's memorial garden. The chorus, concert choir, jazz choir and men's and women's ensembles will sing at the OHS Fall Vocal Fest at 7 tonight at the high school's auditorium, said Victoria Rickard, who directs the groups.
$450,000 grant goes to e-Center project plan
DELHI — The Catskill e-Center received $450,000 in state funding Monday to develop a business incubator on the site of the old Agway on Main Street, according to state Sen. John J. Bonacic, R/C-Mount Hope. "The creation of the Catskill e-Center represents a new opportunity to attract private sector investment to Delaware County," Bonacic said. "I am pleased to have been able to secure this funding to launch the business incubator project."
New chief found for CV-S district
The Cherry Valley-Springfield Board of Education appointed a chief at its meeting last week, school officials said Monday. Nicholas Savin, currently superintendent at Hadley-Luzerne Central School, was appointed superintendent of CV-S at last Wednesday's meeting, school board president Leslie Rathbun said.
Hartwick students put more than just artistic ability into project on display
ONEONTA — About 15 Hartwick College students recently learned what it means to sacrifice a breast to save their lives. The students, members of a contemporary issues seminar at the college, have completed full-size profiles depicting their bodies marked with mastectomy scars and representations of people and activities they value most.
Monday, October 28, 2002
Local group protests policy in D.C.
WASHINGTON - Oneonta college student Mary Purvis Barrett said she rode the bus to Washington on Saturday to protest her government's threatened attack on Iraq. "Bush took a vow to uphold the Constitution, and if he's not willing to live up to it, he ought to be impeached," said the sociology major at the State University College at Oneonta, standing with tens of thousands on the Mall at the nation's capital. Organizers estimated the crowd at 200,000, but there were no admission stubs to count. Massed near the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, war protesters with thousands of homemade signs listened to Susan Sarandon, Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, and Rep. Cynthia McKinney of Georgia decry the Bush Administration's push for war.
Hartwick student stabbed
ONEONTA — A Hartwick College soccer player was charged early Sunday with stabbing a fellow student several times during a campus dispute. The victim of the knife attack, who sources identified as football team member Matthew Mlinar, was in stable condition late Sunday, hospital officials said.
Fulbright Scholar to teach theater in Kathmandu
A local woman will travel across the globe to share her knowledge and passion for theater with residents of Kathmandu, Nepal. Deborah Merola, an associate professor of theater arts at Hartwick College in Oneonta, has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar grant to lecture and conduct research at Tribhuvan University starting in January.
Unadilla wants old hotel for senior housing
After years of planning, the site of the former Bishop Hotel in Unadilla appears headed for development. The village recently agreed to sell the property, at the corner of Main and Depot streets, to Otsego Rural Housing Alliance, a nonprofit agency in Cooperstown, to be developed into senior housing. Village Mayor Ed Frazier said the closing on the property is expected Dec. 15. Otsego Rural Housing will pay $65,000 for the site, which now is a parking lot, Frazier said. The money will be used to reduce the debt on the new village firehouse, which is under construction.
Heart attack likely cause of fatal crash
ONEONTA — A longtime employee of the State University College at Oneonta died Saturday following a one-car motor vehicle accident in the town of Davenport, Delaware County deputies said.
Farmers losing numbers game
ALBANY — The news isn't getting any better for New York's struggling dairy farmers. Although new figures released this week show farmers in September received a little more money for their milk compared to the previous month, the discrepancy in the overall price from a year ago remains as wide as ever.
Numerous local vacancies on Nov. 5 ballot
COOPERSTOWN - When voters in Otsego, Chenango, Delaware and Schoharie counties go to the polls Nov. 5, they'll have some local issues and races to decide, in addition to selecting congressional representatives, members of the state Legislature and a governor.
Conn. man charged in bad check
DELHI — A Connecticut man was arrested Friday after allegedly trying to pay a Downsville bluestone company with a bad check, Delaware County deputies said.
Saturday, October 26, 2002
Debt won't stay away
ONEONTA — State University College at Oneonta senior Rachelle Ray has two major credit cards and "one for just about every store in the Crossgates Mall." But along with those cards comes about $7,000 in debts. "I love to shop," she said. "You just start using it for those little things, and it just builds up." Experts say Ray's situation isn't unique among 19- to 25-year-olds. About 30 percent of all college students will graduate with $10,000 to $25,000 in credit card debt, according to a report on ABCNews.com. Five years ago, 1 percent of personal bankruptcies were filed by those younger than 25. In 1998, young people filed 4.9 percent, according to the same report.
Cells not quite the local ticket
A year after state legislation banned the use of hand-held phones while driving, local police officials report that very few tickets have been written. "I know there was one ticket issued, because I remember the officer talking about it," said Sgt. Ken Olsen of the Oneonta city police. "We have stopped a few people and given them warnings, but I don't think many tickets have been issued." Schoharie County Undersheriff William Slater said it's not a big issue for his department because of the lack of cell-phone service in the area.
Green Thumbs up for flower project
WALTON — A 600-foot long wall of flowers, blooming throughout the year, is the goal of a group of gardeners holding two Green Thumb Sundays on the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Walton. Flossie Brundege, Richard Curtis and Pam and Greg Graupman are heading the project, which was inspired by the late Bob Parsons, who initiated the formation of garden groups that planted areas throughout the fairgrounds.
Man indicted in rape, stabbing of girl
COOPERSTOWN - A Portlandville man has been indicted for nine felonies, including the first-degree rape of a 15-year-old girl who was found stabbed and bleeding on Interstate 88 in the town of Maryland on Aug. 30. In an indictment handed up Friday, an Otsego County grand jury charged James M. Brown, 36, with first-degree rape, two counts of first-degree sodomy, three counts of first-degree assault, two counts of first-degree robbery and second-degree kidnapping.
Shaffer starts serving term
COOPERSTOWN - Vicky Shaffer was sentenced to four weekends in jail Friday morning in Otsego County Court. She was scheduled to enter the Otsego County Jail at 9 p.m. Friday and is to be released for the week at 9 p.m. Sunday. According to Richard Brown, Otsego County's chief assistant district attorney, she is expected to be in jail the next three consecutive weekends during the same times.
Meth lab found
Three men are facing federal drug charges in connection with their production of methamphetamine in a homemade lab, Otsego County deputies said Friday. James M. Lord, 35, of Charlotteville, Tracy A. Lord, 30, of Richmondville, and Shawn M. Briggs, 35, of Decatur were arrested Thursday and charged with felony conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Searches get boost with expanded services
ONEONTA — Job-seekers and employers are offered new and improved services through the Chenango-Delaware-Otsego Workforce, officials said. "The partner agencies have always worked together, but there has never been this level of coordination or cooperation," said Kevin Price, executive director of the CDO Workforce Investment Board. The 24 autonomous partner agencies include local social service departments, colleges and county chambers.
LWV: Keep redistricting on ballot
COOPERSTOWN - Members of two local chapters of the League of Women Voters are hoping Otsego County voters will have a chance to decide this November whether to accept a plan to redistrict the Otsego County Board of Representatives. The plan would reduce the number of county representatives from 14 to 13, with the city of Oneonta losing one representative.
Friday, October 25, 2002
'Stones' mark violent numbers
ONEONTA — Local residents came together Thursday to recognize National Young Women's Day of Action with a candlelight tombstone vigil on Frisbee Field at Hartwick College. A dozen students and community members made tombstones of gray foam and black marker, listing statistics about the number of women who are victims of domestic violence in the United States. The 10 tombstones were placed on Frisbee Field to increase awareness of domestic violence. "It happens a lot, and I think people don't know about it," said Stephanie Lao, a community educator from Planned Parenthood. "We need to spread awareness and stop the violence. What we did today, every little bit counts."
Deer season returns — for drivers
COOPERSTOWN - Drive carefully or you might hit a deer, the state Department of Environmental Conservation is warning. Last year 8,570 deer, or 683 fewer than the year before, were killed by vehicles. However, a study by Cornell University has suggested there may be six times as many car-deer accidents each year as deer fatalities.
Letterman invite has town wondering
Town of Schoharie residents are mystified as to why David Letterman has chosen the town to fill the audience at an upcoming taping of "The Late Show." "I think it's very interesting that we have been chosen," said Dan Weideman, town superintendent of highways. "But I also have no idea why we have been chosen."
Meadows worker honored by state
PHOENIX MILLS - Sherry Hovick has been surprised twice this month. On Oct. 9, Hovick — activities leader at The Meadows, Otsego County's nursing home — was selected New York state's activities assistant of the year.
Volunteers look to 'Make a Difference'
ONEONTA — Area volunteers will join millions of others donating their time and effort to their communities Saturday for Make A Difference Day. More than 300 youth and adult volunteers will participate in Make A Difference Day projects at 17 sites around Otsego County, ending the night in Neahwa Park with food, music and games from 6 to 10 p.m.
Sidney, Cobleskill share in funding from DEC
Projects in Sidney and Cobleskill are among those being funded by grants announced Thursday by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Commissioner Erin M. Crotty announced $158,500 in Urban and Community Forestry grants to help local communities protect trees in parks and along city streets.
Independence comes together
COOPERSTOWN - Disorganized though it may be, the Independence Party has become a force to contend with in New York. A poll published Thursday by ABC Eyewitness News-Survey USA showed gubernatorial candidate B. Thomas Golisano gaining on both Republican incumbent George Pataki and Democrat H. Carl McCall. Golisano received 22 percent behind Pataki's 46 percent and McCall's 29. In the last month, Golisano's percentage among likely voters has almost doubled.
Candidates agree, help is needed in Delaware criminal court
Delaware County's judge is responsible for three courts, criminal, family and surrogate. Each court has a different caseload, a different focus and a different set of responsibilities. Republican Carl "Fritz" Becker is challenging Democratic incumbent Robert "Bob" Estes for the 10-year position that pays $119,800 annually, and each man has a different view of how the courts should function.
Oneonta seeks public parking guidance
ONEONTA — With a $20,000 downtown parking study under way, city officials say they want public input to guide them. The city's count of its consistently full lots, input from Main Street business owners and the prospect of further downtown economic development was behind the decision to order the study. Transportation Concepts of Schenectady will conduct a public meeting at 4 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.
Thursday, October 24, 2002
This Grace is 'amazing'
ONEONTA — By all accounts, Grace Kent has earned her nickname many times over. During her 25-year tenure as secretary at St. Mary's Church, Kent began to be called "Amazing Grace" by co-workers, and the moniker, friend Marcella Drago says, is well-deserved. "She is a super, super person," Drago said, adding that Kent's years of volunteerism and community service recently earned her the Oneonta Italian American Club's highest honor. The 75-year-old East Meredith resident was presented with the club's Citizen of the Year award on Oct. 12 during the organization's Columbus Weekend Dinner Dance at the Elks Club. Drago, vice president of the club, said the award is given annually to a citizen who personifies the highest ideals of his or her Italian heritage in demonstrating commitment, dedication and leadership in the service of the community.
Federal milk payments trickling in
Some area dairy farmers have started to receive checks from the national dairy program. Officials with the Farm Service Agency, which is administering the program through county offices, expect most payments to be made by the end of this week to those farmers who have submitted applications. Far from receiving a windfall, many farmers will use the payments to offset the income they have lost to low payments for fluid milk.
Otsego property tax levy would double under plan
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's property tax levy would more than double next year if departmental requests for funding are honored. Appropriations would rise from about $73.8 million to almost $92 million, and the tax levy would rise from about $9.9 million to more than $21 million, an increase of 113 percent. With those statistics in mind Wednesday afternoon, the county Board of Representatives held the first of a series of budget sessions.
Delaware 'won't pass muster'
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors Finance Committee is grappling with developing a 2003 budget that will help keep a possible 35 percent tax levy increase down by cutting expenses in every department. Delhi Supervisor Gary Manning, county budget director, told the board that the general fund balance is in the red, which prompted him to request assistance from the finance committee. Manning said $1.5 million has already been cut from department head budget requests, but more reductions are coming.
'Organic' label meets skeptics
A new U.S. Department of Agriculture seal marking foods grown according to organic standards debuted Monday. But for some area farmers, the new seal is not causing many changes. Warren Ainslie, of Dancing Veggies farms in Richfield Springs, said under the new regulations he'll have to stop using the word "organic" on labels and advertising. But he said he doesn't plan to apply for the new seal.
Bird preserves planned
Four new Bird Conservation Areas, including one in Chenango County, are being established, state officials announced Tuesday. The Pharsalia BCA is located in the towns of Otselic and Pharsalia in Chenango County. The 10,000-acre area is a high-elevation forest surrounded by open farmland and consisting primarily of deciduous woodlands with conifer plantations, mixed woods, shrublands and grasslands.
Academy completes couter-terrorism training
ONEONTA — The Otsego County Law Enforcement Academy recently completed a three-day training course for area law enforcement officers focusing on "Counter-Terrorism Awareness." "The academy is always looking for pertinent courses," said Capt. J.H. Small, director of the academy. "Since 9/11 there has been a big anti-terrorism effort, and patrol officers are first in the line of defense," he said.
Towers residents glad to see lt. Governor
ONEONTA — Residents of Nader Towers said Wednesday they were happy to see state Lt. Gov. Mary Donohue drop by for a visit. Donohue, who was in Oneonta to announce a grant and talk to elementary school students, stopped at the senior citizen housing complex for a few minutes to chat with residents such as Alina Bruni. "I just came by to see what she can do for us," Bruni said, as she waited for Donohue to arrive.
State official visits historic theater to announce $25,000 renewal grant
ONEONTA — Once marked for demolition during the city's urban renewal program of the 1970s, the landmark Oneonta Theatre is staging a comeback. Lt. Gov. Mary Donohue was in Oneonta on Wednesday to announce a $25,000 state grant that will go toward the renovation and restoration of the 105-year-old building on Chestnut Street. The money, said city engineering administrator Joseph Bernier, will be part of an overall $70,000 program to cover roof renovation, electrical work and replacement of seating.
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
Millionaire arraigned in stone case
The millionaire who allegedly engineered the theft of century-old capstones from historic stone walls, cemeteries and church sidewalks, appeared in Oneonta Town Court on Tuesday, according to State Police Investigator Laura Gregory. Stanton M. Cagney, 57, of New York City was charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property and second-degree criminal possession of a stolen instrument — both felonies — and with fourth-degree criminal solicitation, a misdemeanor, troopers said. Cagney was arraigned on the criminal solicitation charge, according to a court spokesperson. He appeared with his attorney, Robert Ricken, entered a plea of innocent and is scheduled to reappear on Dec. 5.
24th candidates words apart
ONEONTA - Everything from contraceptives to war with Iraq came up Tuesday night when three candidates for the 24th Congressional seat met at the State University College at Oneonta. For the first half of the nearly two-hour program, Green Party nominee Mark Dunau and incumbent Republican Sherwood Boehlert answered questions from the audience and telephone callers.
Otsego redistricting case arguments heard in court
NORWICH - The merits of the Otsego County Board of Representatives' plan to redistrict were argued before state Supreme Court Justice Kevin M. Dowd on Tuesday afternoon.
Libraries tie into network
SIDNEY — For those who believe change is good, there is good news coming to area libraries. Starting the week of Nov. 18, area libraries plan to use a new computer network that will not only speed up the ordering of books, but will also allow many patrons with a computer to use the library from home, officials said.
Four towns to receive transportation grants
Four Schoharie County and Delaware County municipalities will receive more than $700,000 in state funding for transportation projects. A total of $1.6 million under the Transportation Enhancement Program was awarded late last week to eight greater Binghamton and western Catskill municipalities.
Oneonta looks at policy on non-traditional pets
ONEONTA — City officials are continuing to look at revamping an ordinance that involves the ownership of potentially dangerous pets. A local pet store owner says the city must be careful to differentiate between those animals perceived to be dangerous and those that actually are.
Man facing charges on alleged break-in
DELHI — A Walton man who allegedly entered a house through a window to threaten the life of the mother of his child appeared in Delaware County Court on Monday. David Coffey, 22, was arraigned on felony charges of first-degree burglary, second-degree assault, first-degree criminal contempt and misdemeanor charges of menacing, third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
Delaware Social Services lauded for reducing welfare
DELHI — Delaware County's Department of Social Services was honored Tuesday for reducing the number of families that receive public assistance. Brian J. Wing, state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance commissioner, presented a certificate to William Moon, county Social Services commissioner, recognizing the achievement in reducing welfare dependency and providing necessary support to help families enter the work force.
Child killer denied parole
A man who killed a child for pointing a toy gun at him was denied parole for the third time on Oct. 16, according to Carol Weaver, of the state Division of Parole. During Thanksgiving weekend 1988, 7-year-old Joseph John Effner Jr. was fatally shot in the head by Carl Ferguson.
Theatre heads list of state grant recipients
The Oneonta Theatre will be awarded $25,000 for restoration work under a grant announced Tuesday by state officials. Lt. Gov. Mary Donohue will be at the theater this morning at 11:30 to announce the funding that will be used for renovation and enhancement projects. Built in 1897, the 105-year-old theater was recently placed on the National Register of Historical Buildings.
Tuesday, October 22, 2002
Farmers: Milk situation 'ugly'
SCHOHARIE — Nearly 200 people attended a panel discussion Monday about the problems caused by low producer milk prices in the dairy industry. The economic summit, titled "Dairy and the Upstate Economy in Crisis," included representatives from the county Chamber of Commerce, Farm Bureau and planning and development agencies that sponsored the panel. They were joined on the 12-member board by representatives of agri-business and government to discuss the problems. By holding the conference, Richard Ball, president of the Schoharie Chamber of Commerce, said, "we want to raise awareness of agricultural issues on all levels.
Catskill center given Gold Leaf Award
A local group has been honored by the Eastern New York Chapter of the Nature Conservancy for its role in bringing many organizations together to discuss the future of the Catskill region. The Catskill Center for Conservation and Development and Tom Alworth, the Catskill Center's director, were the recipients of the Nature Conservancy's Gold Leaf Award.
Health leader addresses local concerns
ONEONTA — Nursing home regulations and obesity were among topics discussed during a meeting Monday led by New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Antonia Novello. About 40 area doctors, all members of the Otsego County Medical Society, attended the dinner meeting at Iannelli's Restaurant in Oneonta.
Walton man charged with forging checks
DELHI — A Walton man who allegedly forged checks totaling more than $85,000 appeared in Delaware County Court on Monday. Christopher Devens, 27, was arraigned on two counts of first-degree possession of forged instruments for cashing Arizona government retirement checks.
Accused intruders go to court
ONEONTA — Three men arrested over the weekend on burglary and criminal mischief charges are scheduled to appear this morning in City Court. Patrick M. O'Donnell, 27; Brian J. O'Sullivan, 22; and Dermott O'Sullivan, 27, all of the Bronx, are three of six men arrested at about 5:30 a.m. Sunday morning for allegedly breaking into two Cliff Street apartments.
3-county, middle school spelling bee set for March
ONEONTA — A local spelling bee for middle-school students in Chenango, Delaware and Otsego counties has been organized, according to Daniel Swift, publisher of The Daily Star. A regional spell-off is planned for March, with the winner going to Washington, D.C., to participate in the finals of the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee. While many schools in the area have spelling contests, the local spelling bee will offer an organized, regional contest to spotlight academic achievement, Swift said.
Public health director offers facts about flu shots
It's that time of year again ... time to think about getting a flu shot. Influenza, or the flu, is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the respiratory system (lungs, nose and throat). Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, muscle aches, dry cough, sore throat and a runny/stuffy nose.
Cancer Coalition to present conference
The Delaware County Cancer Coalition will present its second annual conference, titled "Surviving with Spirit" — Balancing Traditional and Complementary Methods of Cancer Care, on Nov. 2 at the Stamford Central School.
Be aware of dangers of lead
Most people are aware of the danger of lead poisoning, but too many believe that lead poisoning is chiefly caused by children eating paint chips, according to the Delaware County Public Health Nursing Services.
Massage therapy can offer something for everyone
Do you suffer from lower back pain, chronic neck and shoulder tension or headaches? Are you stressed out from the world situation, your job or family issues? Has an injury kept you from exercising at the level you would like? In recognition of National Massage Therapy Awareness Week, it is important to realize the numerous benefits of massage therapy.
Monday, October 21, 2002
More dorms go smoke-free
ONEONTA — More students say they want to live in smoke-free dormitories, and local colleges are accommodating them. In March 2001, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health reported that of 604 colleges only 27 percent provided non-smoking dormitories. Those numbers appear to be increasing. "Every year there are fewer and fewer requests for smoking areas on the housing preference forms," said Dave Bagley, associate director of residential life at Hartwick College. Bagley said the school has tried to recognize the needs of students by increasing the availability of non-smoking dorms. Five of Hartwick's dorms are smoke-free, while three dorms restrict smoking to specific floors.
Groups name 2002 'Women of the Year'
The Delhi and Walton chapters of the Business and Professional Women's Organization have selected their 2002 Woman of the Year award winners. Dotti Kruppo, Walton's BPW Woman of the Year, was asked to speak at the Oct. 9 BPW meeting and was then shocked to see members of her family, co-workers and friends in the audience.
Stores using irradiation in meat safety
ONEONTA — A week after the largest meat recall in U.S. history, some companies are exploring irradiation as a way to kill harmful bacteria in foods. But not everyone believes that alternative to be safer. Price Chopper announced last week it will carry irradiated ground beef in packages specially labeled and priced about 10 to 30 cents more per pound than conventional ground beef.
Seven charged in melee
ONEONTA — Seven people were arrested early Sunday morning after a keg thrown on top of a car resulted in burglaries, an assault and other illegal activity, police said. It all started when a keg of beer was thrown from the balcony of a second-story apartment at 40 Cliff St. onto the roof of a car, Oneonta city police said.
Alleged burglars caught
ONEONTA — An alert trooper and his K-9 partner "Pit" are being credited for the arrest on Sunday of two Norwich men who allegedly committed more than 20 burglaries in the area over the last couple of weeks, state police at Oneonta said.
Saturday, October 19, 2002
Shipmates navigate memories
ONEONTA — When 78-year-old Albert Circelli was aboard the USS Missouri, he stood on deck and watched as Japanese officials surrendered, ending World War II. When 69-year-old Donald Connor was aboard, he stood in the galley, watching thousands of Navy men fighting the Korean War pass by as he cooked their dinner. And in the 1940s, when 74-year-old Angelo Goffredo was aboard the 20-story, 889-foot USS Missouri, the ship ran aground in the Chesapeake Bay, causing embarrassment then and laughs now. The three men, along with about 70 others, gathered in preparation for a reunion next year in Pearl Harbor for all those who have ever served on the Missouri. "We tell stories; we call them `sea stories,'" said Connor, a Schenevus resident who arranged the Oneonta meeting at the Holiday Inn. "We have a lot to say to one another."
Cops tap into problems
It's Saturday night and you're relaxing with your teenage classmates in a Water Street bar. You've just taken a swig of cold beer and you feel a tap on your shoulder. You turn, thinking it's a friend. But it's a cop, and he wants to check your ID. You're underage, so you're under arrest.
Crackdown keeping some away
ONEONTA — Local college students are saying they can't relax at downtown bars because they're feeling the heat of a recent police crackdown on underage drinking. Since the end of August, city police have arrested more than 100 underage drinkers, the majority for possessing alcohol while inside Water Street-area bars.
Tainted meats out of schools
Delhi Central and Walton Central schools may have received listeria-infected meat, school officials said Friday, but no illness has been reported. Both schools buy products from the manufacturer that recalled chicken and turkey because of possible listeria contamination.
How $40 can keep a person eating all day
Area residents have always known the Cooperstown area is about more than just baseball. Now, a show on the Food Network is showcasing the cheap, delicious cuisine of the area on a show called "$40 a Day."
Green hopeful takes campaign on the roads
COOPERSTOWN - Carrying a homemade flag emblazoned with the caption, "Don't tread on me," Mark Dunau of Hancock hiked from Cooperstown to Richfield Springs on Friday. Dunau, 50, is the Green Party's nominee for the 24th District Congressional seat. He is trying to unseat longtime Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, 65, R-New Hartford, and he said, walking the district is a way to attract attention to his underfinanced campaign.
Missouri vets: Go get Saddam
ONEONTA — They come from different hometowns, different walks of life and, in some cases, different eras. But they have one thing in common: They all spent time in the Navy, fighting wars, and they all seem to think President Bush shouldn't hesitate to use force against Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.
Group to show parking survey
DELHI — A group of 20 to 30 members of the Greater Delhi Chamber of Commerce plan to attend the Delhi Village Board meeting at 7 p.m. Monday to present their parking survey and to ask the village to reconsider some of the parking regulations. Melissa Wakin-Mostert headed up a committee that did a study of available parking in Delhi's downtown area.
Court set to hear Otsego redistricting plan Tuesday
COOPERSTOWN - A lawsuit filed to prevent Otsego County from adopting a proposed redistricting plan is slated to be heard in Norwich at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, said Otsego County Attorney James Konstanty. Konstanty made the announcement at Wednesday evening's meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Walton minister tells of the good times and bad in book
WALTON — Finding happiness today rather than always hoping happiness will arrive tomorrow is the message of a Walton woman's autobiography. Lois Cusimano has documented her journey through life, with all its ups and downs, in her newly released book, "Maybe Tomorrow."
Friday, October 18, 2002
Possibility of war concerns area military parents
Recent world events have made Estelle McCumber and her son, Sgt. Stephen Coons, avid CNN watchers. They both said they watch the all-news channel to follow the latest events involving possible military action with Iraq. But while McCumber watches from her home in Oxford, Coons watches from El Paso, Texas, where he is stationed with the Army. Following President Bush's signing of a congressional resolution Wednesday to authorize force against Iraq, both stay tuned in for the latest news. The two have differing attitudes about the need for a preemptive strike. But McCumber, like other parents of military personnel interviewed, made it clear she is behind her boy. "I support my son and whatever it is he wants to do," she said Wednesday. "He has his duty."
Storytellers mark 25th anniversary
Bill Swain's soft Southern accent lends itself well to the yarns he spins about life in the mountains of North Carolina, where he grew up. A retired Oneonta elementary school principal, Swain has spent years telling stories about the Southern mountains, as a member of the Storytelling Center of Oneonta, a group marking its 25th anniversary this year.
Milk payments starting to flow
Payments under the national dairy program are starting this week, program officials said. The federal regulations that will allow the Farm Service Agency to begin making payments were published Oct. 15, said Mark Dennis, a regional spokesman for the agency in New York and New England. County agency offices all over the state have loaded the necessary software and are starting to process the applications, he said.
Man charged in thefts of capstones
Local state police have arrested a man in connection with a series of cap stone thefts in Delaware and Ulster counties over the past 18 months.
Walton comprehensive plan ready for public review
WALTON — The proposed comprehensive plan for the town of Walton is ready for a public review, according to Gale Sheridan, Planning Board chairman. A public informational meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Walton Town Hall, 129 North St. Sheridan said the Planning Board has been working on updating the comprehensive plan for the last two years. The town's original plan was drafted in the 1970s and updated in the 1980s.
Craven leaves adoring friends
ONEONTA — Dedication to education is just one of the things a former president of the State University College at Oneonta will be remembered for, colleagues said Thursday.
Police checking reported robbery
ONEONTA — City police are investigating a reported robbery last weekend in the parking garage. A 20-year-old man told police he was jumped at about 10:30 p.m. Oct. 12 by three white men who stole cash, a Citizen's watch and a gold necklace with a Celtic cross. The loss, he told police, is valued at $295.
Industrial park will get $75,000 from state
The Richfield Springs Industrial Park will receive a $75,000 matching grant in the second round of New York's Build Now-N.Y. initiative, Gov. George Pataki announced Tuesday. "We're really excited about getting this grant because it does help us out and let us move forward with the project," said Lynn Bass, Otsego County economic development director.
Thursday, October 17, 2002
Bloomville project still has bridge to cross
Disagreements over replacing Wright's Creek bridge in Bloomville have prompted county officials to have another public meeting on the project. The meeting will be at the Bloomville Fire House on Scotch Hill Road at 7 p.m. Nov. 4. Phil Pierce, county Department of Public Works deputy commissioner, said plans to replace the county Route 33 bridge have been under way for about seven years. A public meeting was held Aug. 20 to inform the public about the county's preferred plan, but only five people attended, including four members of the Kortright Town Board, Pierce said. After the meeting, the county received a petition with 84 signatures, indicating residents didn't want the county to proceed with its preferred plan, Pierce said.
Election '02: Party seeks pot reform
COOPERSTOWN - When voters go to the polls Nov. 5, at the bottom of the ballot they'll find a marijuana leaf, symbol of the state's newest party — the Marijuana Reform Party. The mission of party members, who gained ballot status a few weeks ago by collecting about 21,000 signatures, is not hard to guess. They want to legalize medical marijuana and hemp production, and throw out the state's Rockefeller drug laws.
Memoir tells of trains' halcyon days
SIDNEY — For some, the toot of a train engine can be a warning sign. But for Sidney resident Clyde Conrow it brings back memories of the Ontario & Western Railway where his father worked for many years as a telegraph operator. Conrow's recollections of his father, Charles Byron Conrow, and his life working for the railroad appear in a nearly 40-page article, titled "Memories of Pop and the O&W Railway."
County bus service officially Birnie's
COOPERSTOWN - At Wednesday night's meeting, the Otsego County Board of Representatives approved a five-year contract with Birnie Bus of Rome to operate the county's bus system. Reps. Donald Lindberg, R-Worcester, and James Powers, R-Butternuts, voted against the resolution. Service along several county routes, including to Worcester and Gilbertsville, will be reduced from five days a week to one.
Group: You need a body to love
ONEONTA — A local college group spent Wednesday using its voice to promote "National Love Your Body Day." The group is Vox, or Voices of Planned Parenthood, and its message was clear: Love your body by keeping yourself informed about health and wellness issues.
Aldermen revise helmet law code
ONEONTA — City officials are revamping a section of the municipal code that will contain a proposed helmet law. Fifth Ward Alderman Rodger Moran, who also chairs the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, gave aldermen an update on the law during Tuesday's Common Council meeting. Moran said Wednesday the committee will update the code as it relates to transportation devices, such as roller skates, skateboards and scooters.
Two Oneonta schools must better English scores
ONEONTA — Two schools in the district have been told by the state to improve English/language arts test scores, officials said at Wednesday night's school board meeting. Center Street Elementary School and Oneonta Middle School now must create Local Assistance Plans to meet adequate yearly progress standards set by the state, said Kim Mahler, the district's curriculum coordinator.
Wednesday, October 16, 2002
Ladies in red draw stares
ONEONTA — A group of senior citizens is painting the town red and purple, and proving that you're only as old as you feel. The "Renegade Red Hat Society," a group of about 20 local people older than 55, meets for lunch and other outings several times a month — all while wearing outlandish red hats and purple outfits. The group met Tuesday for a lunch at Brooks' House of Bar-B-Q's and garnered quite a few curious stares and questions. "Some lady pulled over when we were walking in here and asked who we are and what we are doing," said 72-year-old Carol Van Hoesen, who wore a red straw hat decorated with ribbons, a purple suit, a jeweled-cat pin and Mardis Gras beads.
Otsego plan challenged
COOPERSTOWN - Hank Nicols of Milford and Patricia Carey of Laurens filed a lawsuit against the Otsego County Board of Representatives on Tuesday, seeking to keep a proposed county redistricting plan off the Nov. 5 ballot. The case is slated to be heard by state Supreme Court Justice Kevin M. Dowd of Norwich, perhaps as early as today.
Dryness boosts silo gas levels
The dry summer is causing agricultural officials to warn farmers about an annual hazard that could pose a greater danger this year. This time of year, when farmers are putting crops in silos, a yellowish or brownish gas naturally produced by the grain is a problem. "But this year, due to the dry weather we have experienced, the threat of silo gas is greater than normal," state Agricultural Commissioner Nathan Rodgers said Thursday.
Judge candidates make their cases at forum
DELHI — Delaware County's two candidates for judge appeared together for the first time Tuesday when the Delhi Business and Professional Women played host to a candidates' forum. Robert Estes, the Democratic incumbent, and Republican Carl Becker were each given five minutes to introduce themselves, followed by a brief question-and-answer period.
Council OKs SPCA's offer
ONEONTA — Aldermen accepted an offer Tuesday from the Susquehanna SPCA to handle the city's animal-control services. Seven of the eight council members voted to approve the three-year contract with the Cooperstown-based Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Oneonta education board loses member to coaching
ONEONTA — The city school district's board of education may be down one member come November. The Oneonta board plans to approve member Sven Anderson's resignation at today's 7 p.m. meeting at Greater Plains Elementary School. School officials said they have several options, but plan to appoint someone to fill Anderson's seat until May, when the district will have elections.
Project Independence ready to open doors
Project Independence is celebrating 20 years of providing a home for special residents, said Roberta Brooks, secretary of the board of directors. "It's a great place, and we are pretty proud of it," Brooks said.
Village focusing on repairs tonight
A street- and bridge-repair project by the state in the village of Bainbridge will be the subject of a public meeting at Bainbridge-Guilford High School at 18 Juliand St. at 7 p.m. today, officials said.
Birds still checked, but frost killing W. Nile threat
County health departments continue checking dead birds for the West Nile virus, but officials said the season for mosquitoes is almost over. Frost has reduced the threat, said Marcas Flindt, public health director for Chenango County, and colder weather eventually will eliminate it. Chenango reported five birds with West Nile virus so far this year; Delaware County has had four; Otsego, nine; and Schoharie has had no positive cases, according to the state Department of Health website.
Tuesday, October 15, 2002
Hartwick plan may cut jobs
ONEONTA — Hartwick College officials unveiled a plan this week that cuts staff and expenditures but is designed to improve a variety of programs to align the liberal arts school with other colleges of its size. The plan, called "Students Are Our First Priority: Recommendations and Actions for a Student-Centered College," will alleviate financial troubles by adjusting expenses to match that of similar schools, college President Richard A. Detweiler said. As part of the plan, about 10 instructors have already been told their contracts will not be renewed at the end of this school year, Hartwick officials said. "Nobody wants to cut faculty — nobody wants to see faculty go," said Susan Gotsch, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the faculty. "But these were contracted faculty with term expirations."
Dairy prices pinch farmers
ALBANY — A sharp and prolonged drop in the price of milk has left an increasing number of dairy farmers statewide struggling to pay their bills. "It's a very critical situation," said state Department of Agriculture and Markets spokeswoman Jessica Chittenden. "Things are very touchy right now."
Caterpillars: Winter won't be so woolly
COOPERSTOWN - The coming winter should be mild, according to the woolly bears. Woolly bears, the larva form of the Isabella tiger moth, often have black stripes at the ends and a middle stripe that's brown, orange or reddish. According to The Old Farmers' Almanac, legend has it that the wider that middle stripe is, the milder the upcoming winter will be. And this year, the caterpillars' brownish middle sections have been wide, which might mean an easy winter.
Boehlert changes stance on Iraq
ONEONTA — Republican Rep. Sherwood Boehlert says President Bush's case for military action against Iraq was deserving of his House vote to approve the proposal. The 24th Congressional District incumbent from New Hartford, who is up for re-election in November, was among those in the House who voted last week, 296-133, to give Bush the broad authority to use military force against Saddam Hussein.
Judge race turns to forums
DELHI — Candidates for Delaware County judge will appear at forums in Delhi and Harpersfield tonight. Republican Carl "Fritz" Becker is challenging Democratic incumbent Robert "Bob" Estes for the 10-year position that pays $119,800 annually. The campaign for Delaware County judge is well under way, but in a judicial race, some topics are off-limits.
Sidney to address parking
SIDNEY — Slightly more than a year after parking became an issue at homes in the village of Sidney, the board will hear a proposal tonight that addresses public concerns, officials said. If trustees accept the draft during their 7 p.m. meeting in the Sidney Civic Center, officials said a public hearing on the proposal is expected to be held at Sidney Village Board meeting on Oct. 28.
No second thought about child over job
When Sheryl Coviello of Unadilla learned her 2-year-old daughter, Kylie, had a brain tumor, she said, "I wasn't really thinking about a paycheck." What the 27-year-old mother did was take unpaid family medical leave from her job at the Arc Otsego in Oneonta, where she works as a production supervisor. She needed to be with her blond-haired daughter when the girl underwent an operation at Wilson Memorial Regional Medical Center in Johnson City and see her through to recovery.
Glimmerglass goes to work
Glimmerglass Opera of Cooperstown is beginning construction this week on a two-story, 14-room structure that will provide housing for seasonal staff.
Monday, October 14, 2002
Basswood Pond trail gets made over — by ax and fire
BURLINGTON - The southern trail through the Basswood Pond State Forest is easier to negotiate, thanks to the work of volunteers from the Otsego County Conservation Association. OCCA members, including President Edward Wesnofkse, have been cutting brush, clearing fallen limbs and making sure the trails through this pristine wilderness area are easy to find and follow. "It's such a beautiful area that we want to make sure hikers can use it," Wesnofske said. OCCA volunteers have been assisted by forester Phil Sanders of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Wesnofske said.
In Oneonta, openly gay doesn't mean publicly
Across the country, same-sex marriage notices have started appearing in newspapers. But not here, not now, and possibly, not ever, say local gay, lesbian and bisexual community members. It's not that Oneonta isn't open-minded — because it is, they said. It's just that people here are a little more hesitant to reveal aspects of their personal lives that might cause some awkwardness, said one local woman, whose daughter is gay.
Walkers take steps to reduce hunger
ONEONTA — About 200 people — many of them school-age children — participated in Sunday's CROP Walk in Oneonta. Walkers raised $7,500 to fight hunger locally and abroad during the 25th annual event, said CROP Walk co-chairman Bill Whitaker.
Hall honored for historic status
The Cornfield Hall's recent listing on the state and national registers of historic places was celebrated during the Farmers' Independent Benevolent Society's annual gathering Sunday. Cornfield Hall on Otsego County Route 26 in Fly Creek was placed on the national register on Sept. 12, after having made the state register on July 24. Cornfield Hall is owned by the Farmers' Independent Benevolent Society, a life insurance agency formed in the 1920s for local residents of Slovenian decent.
Deputies: Man dies felling tree
A 28-year-old Maryland man was killed Saturday after a tree fell on him, Otsego County sheriff's deputies said.
Saturday, October 12, 2002
OHS graduate takes to 'Street' in NYC
When 19-year-old Paul Masse lived in Oneonta, it was on Hillside Drive. But now, Masse, a student at New York University, is on 42nd Street. Masse, an Oneonta High School graduate, began an on-stage role last month in the Broadway musical "42nd Street." "The part is basically the on-stage rehearsal pianist for the cast of the show," Masse said. "It's as much a part of the cast as the other characters." The play tells the story of the cast of a Broadway show. Masse, a pianist, actor and singer, plays the musician who backs up the actors during their rehearsals. Masse, the understudy for the role, has performed on stage five times so far.
Local folks: Take action, but temper violence
Area residents say they back the president's push to oust Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein but are unsure they want to see international violence. Others said attacking Iraq is the one sure way to keep world peace and maintain the safety of U.S. citizens. The Senate voted Friday morning, and the House voted Thursday night, to allow President Bush to use force against Iraq.
City's search for animal control officer on a roll
ONEONTA — The Susquehanna SPCA has offered to handle animal-control services for the city of Oneonta. The city's Finance Committee is scheduled to consider the proposal Monday during its regular meeting, the city's purchasing agent, Edith Polhamus, said Friday.
CPA loses license
ALBANY — The Norwich accountant convicted in July for his part in a $2.8 million federal tax fraud case has lost his license to do business in the state.
School to hire chief
A superintendent was chosen Friday to head the Edmeston Central School District, school board members said. David P. Rowley, a former teacher in Edmeston, was unanimously appointed by the board to replace James Polunci, who will retire in January after a 10-year tenure.
Walton police officer accused of misconduct
DELHI — A Walton village police officer faces a charge of official misconduct following a long investigation by the Delaware County district attorney's office.
Friday, October 11, 2002
If you build it, they will scream
ONEONTA — Don Tubia was still an Oneonta college student in 1998 when he decided to continue a Halloween tradition his father had begun in Herkimer several years before. Tubia, an Oneonta city firefighter, will once again coordinate this year's "Field of Screams" Haunted Hayride, which begins at the Sixth Ward Booster Club playground at dusk on Saturday. Six tractor-drawn hay wagons will take people of all ages around a course that features volunteers doing skits and spooky scenery along the way. A spook house, put on by Cindy Grant of Oneonta, will also be part of the festivities. Just what types of scary things one might encounter along the hayride route is a secret, Tubia said.
'Students' face DWI's realities
COOPERSTOWN - She's about 40, from the Oneonta area, a mother of teen-agers. She got her DWI last summer. She relates this during a break at the drinking-driver course. She's taking the course with 20 others who've been accused or convicted of driving either drunk or with ability impaired by drugs. They're under court order to take this course, to maintain or regain their licenses. After an hour of discussion, led by instructor Jim Knodel, the class is taking a 10-minute time-out.
Foothills gets $450,000
ONEONTA — A proposed multi-million dollar performing arts center downtown may be a step closer to reality. Congress has initially approved a $450,000 federal grant toward construction of the Foothills Performing Arts Center, which is to be built on Market Street, Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, announced Thursday.
Livestock help may come soon
Additional government support for many area farmers may be arriving shortly with a program designed to offset the high cost of feeding livestock, officials said. Representatives with the Farm Service Agency said Tuesday they are hoping to learn shortly whether Congress will add all of New York's counties to the area already covered by the livestock compensation program.
Otsego's tonnage reduced
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's guaranteed annual tonnage requirements have been reduced for next year. At a meeting of the Montgomery Otsego Schoharie Solid Waste Management Authority held Wednesday, the board voted 6-2 to lower the GAT for Otsego and Montgomery counties and to raise that of Schoharie County. The six board members who voted for the new quotas were from Montgomery and Otsego counties. The two who dissented, including Chairman Charles Buck, were from Schoharie County.
Group plans to revitalize Howes
A firm has announced plans to buy and revitalize the Howes Cave cement quarry and property. Cobleskill Stone Products purchased about 350 acres of the quarry, its facilities and some of the surrounding area from the Schoharie County Industrial Development Agency and Callanan Industries of Albany. The quarry site is within the towns of Cobleskill and Schoharie. The assessment as vacant mining property is less than $200,000, officials said.
Tavern tour to drop in old-time hangouts
Tankards won't be needed on the Turnpike Tavern Tour in Franklin on Saturday. Three historic homes in Franklin that were formerly taverns on the Susquehanna Turnpike will be showcased on bus tours that will leave from Chapel Hall on Institute Street at 10 and 11 a.m. and at 1 and 2 p.m., according to Chris Geertgens, of the Franklin Improvement Society. Linda Parrow, Franklin village historian, said the tour is being held to celebrate the bicentennial of the Susquehanna Turnpike, also known as the Catskill Turnpike, which was one of the first in the state.
Fire evacuates Main Street hotel
ONEONTA — About 60 people were evacuated from the Oneonta Hotel on Main Street on Thursday night when smoke from a malfunctioning fuse in an electrical panel filled the fourth floor. No one was injured, and residents were allowed to return to the building about an hour later, city firefighters said.
Thursday, October 10, 2002
Source: Otsego redistricting plan flawed
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's proposed redistricting plan would have a difficult time surviving a court challenge, according to two men who design such plans in the state. Phil Chonigman and Marc Gronich — who operate Geo-Political Strategies of Albany and White Plains — said the county's proposed plan that will be a ballot proposition in November has two flaws. First, the districts are not close enough to each other in population. State guidelines suggest election districts should not deviate more than 5 percent above or below the mean-sized district of a unit. A deviation of about 10 percent above or below the mean has been allowed by courts for compelling reasons, such as not dividing towns into different districts.
Hartwick president to retire
ONEONTA — When Hartwick College named Richard A. Detweiler president in 1992, he said he'd be there about eight years. Now, nearly 11 years later, Detweiler has plans to retire in June. Detweiler said Wednesday afternoon he had planned to call it quits two years ago but decided to stay to deal with the college's escalating financial troubles.
Hearing draws comments on Southside Oneonta traffic congestion
ONEONTA — Making Southside more pedestrian friendly was a priority among many people who spoke Wednesday during a meeting on transportation needs for the heavily trafficked corridor. State Department of Transportation representatives sponsored the forum that solicited input on dozens of proposed projects to alleviate congestion in the areas of Lettis Highway and the state Routes 23 and 28 corridor.
Bridge work over reservoir draws praise
Work to rebuild two bridges spanning the Cannonsville Reservoir has been award-winning. The General Building Contractors of New York State gave the Cianbro Corp. a Build New York Award for the work. "This is the first time in the 13-year history of the awards that a bridge project has been honored," said Pam Martin, spokeswoman for the General Building Contractors Association in Albany.
Division would be largest for Springfield
SPRINGFIELD - The largest subdivision proposal ever to come before the town Planning Board is wending its way through the approval process, Chairman Jim Willsey said Wednesday. Composed of a few large parcels, the 357 acres will be divided into 29 lots bordering on state Route 20, Route 29A, Griggs Road, Hines Road and Texas Road, according to Evelyn Morales, vice president of Pathfinder Realty.
Reducing element critical to cattle feed
DELHI — Reducing phosphorous in the Cannonsville Reservoir through precision feed management is critical to the economics of the Cannonsville basin according to Paul Cerosaletti, Cornell Cooperative Extension agent. Cerosaletti outlined the goals of the precision feeding program at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting Wednesday.
Landfill may go forward after all
UNADILLA — A controversial waste facility may be allowed to operate its landfill after all. The Unadilla Town Board, by a vote of 3-1 with one absent, authorized a proposal during its regular Tuesday meeting to amend its local law that prevented operation of a construction and demolition debris landfill by Waste Recovery Enterprise LLC. There will be a public hearing on the amendment possibly as soon as the Nov. 12 meeting. If the board approves the amendment, the decision may be subject to a permissive referendum, said town Attorney Albert Clune. If that is the case, he said, voters could petition the board to hold a vote on the issue.
Monser moves, ready to reopen
ONEONTA — Monser Bros. Tire Sales will reopen on Chestnut Street in the town Monday, two months after a fire gutted its downtown garage. "We plan to offer the same services," co-owner Jeff Gelbsman said Wednesday. "We're reopening after a lot of hard work." The 8,000-square-foot property is at 375 Chestnut St., next to McDonald's. The shop's 11 full-time employees were retained.
Emergency team saves worker's life
An Ohio man who went into cardiac arrest at the Blenheim-Gilboa power plant may owe his life to the quick response of the New York Power Authority emergency response team. Jeff Moore, 51, an electrician, was working at the plant Oct. 3 when he complained of chest pain, shortness of breath and other symptoms, according to Michael Saltzman, public relations spokesman.
County likely to lose one route from 'Gus'
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County is likely to lose one bus route as the county negotiates continued bus service with two potential providers: Birnie Transportation Services and Progressive Transportation Services. Along several routes, service will be greatly reduced because the number of riders has declined, costs have risen and the state is reducing aid to the county.
Wednesday, October 9, 2002
Message in a bottle finds its way back
When a Morris girl's message in a bottle was thrown into the Atlantic Ocean more than four years ago, it seemed more likely to end up in an octopus' garden than a Massachusetts flower garden. But a dirty, scratched plastic soda bottle containing a message from 12-year-old Alicia Gregory was found last week in the garden of a resident of Plum Island, Mass. "It floated close to five years in the ocean," said Alicia, a sixth-grader at Morris Central School. "I'm surprised it didn't get water inside the bottle." Kevin Hunt found the bottle last week in his garden — about 100 yards from the shoreline — and contacted Alicia's parents, Hollie and Brian. "It didn't ring any bells with us, and it didn't ring any bells with her," Hollie Gregory said Tuesday, laughing.
Area schools say they're vulnerable to terror
Despite thorough crisis management plans, schools may never be fully prepared to handle terror attacks, local school officials said this week. Their statements confirmed the findings of a National Association of School Resources Officers survey, which reported that 95 percent of respondents described their schools as vulnerable to terror.
Ordinance rankles residents
FRANKLIN — More than 100 people attending Tuesday's Town Board meeting were up in arms over a proposed noise ordinance created because of complaints about target shooting. There was a "Don't Tread On Me" attitude among the majority of residents who showed up at the town hall meeting. About a dozen people spoke out for almost two hours against the proposed law, saying it is "ridiculous," vague and infringes on their rights.
Relief plan would help, officials say
ALBANY — As county governments crunch budget numbers, local officials said they're banking on state lawmakers to return to the Capitol soon to pass a Medicaid relief bill that would save area taxpayers more than $2 million. "We have to believe the governor and Legislature will be taking action on this," said Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman James Eisel. "We have to believe we'll get this, and so we'll build it into the budget."
Doctors educate area on Islam
COOPERSTOWN - In Muslim nations, one sees no nursing homes, Dr. Ali Nawras told an audience of about 50 people at the Otsego County Courthouse in Cooperstown on Tuesday night. Nawras, an Iraqi, was one of six Muslim physicians associated with Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital who spoke about Islam in a program sponsored by Friends of the Village of Cooperstown Library.
Six fire departments awarded state grants
WEST ONEONTA — Six Otsego County fire departments received $75,300 in state funds to buy equipment, Sen. James L. Seward, R-Milford, announced at a press conference Monday. Fire chiefs or a department representative were on hand to receive commemorative checks at the afternoon press conference at the West Oneonta Fire Department.
Otsego budget to be discussed tonight
FLY CREEK — There will be a public hearing on the town of Otsego's proposed 2003 budget at 7 p.m. today at the town hall in Fly Creek. The preliminary budget calls for expenditures of $1,455,000 for highway and general town purposes. In addition, funds are budgeted in four special districts — the Fly Creek, Schuyler Lake and Cooperstown fire districts, and the Fly Creek Lighting Districts.
Man faces another charge
DELHI — A Stamford man arrested Aug. 9 for allegedly buying thousands of dollars worth of merchandise using stolen credit card numbers was arraigned in Delaware County Court on an additional charge Monday.
Boy flexes giving muscle
An 11-year-old Meridale boy who has had 20 operations in the past four years is now on a quest to make other children more comfortable during their hospital stays. Dylon Mager, who spends months at a time at Sinai Hospital in Baltimore having surgeries to lengthen his right leg, says he now plans to help hospital officials build a house for patients like him and their families.
Downtown arcade opens after relocation
An Oneonta arcade relocated and opened Saturday on Main Street. King's Kastle Arcade, formerly housed at the Southside Mall, fills space on the corner of Main and Chestnut streets. The leased space was last occupied by drug store CVS, which closed last spring. A grand opening will be held in a couple weeks, said manager Karen Nelson. Renovations are still under way and several new machines will be added by the time of the grand opening, she said. A self-service arcade will remain in a space at the Southside Mall that last held the As Seen On TV store.
Mom back in peace struggle
COOPERSTOWN - As the United States prepares to attack Iraq for the second time in 12 years, Sandra Twang of West Edmeston is trying to drum up the protest. Twang, a mother of five, is helping to organize a campaign to send busloads of people to Washington, D.C., on Oct. 26. On that day, war protesters said they hope a sea of people will converge on the nation's capital to tell the politicians to call off the war.
Tuesday, October 8, 2002
Vigil traces violence back to early days
DELHI — Violence is so deep-rooted in American history that it will take a dramatic cultural change to eliminate it, a keynote speaker said at an anti-violence vigil Monday night. American colonialism, slavery and shoot-outs contributed to the violent legacy that marks the country today, said Howard Velzy, a victims' rights activist who spoke at "Peace on Earth Begins at Home" at the State University College of Technology at Delhi. "That was an institution that was part of our ethos," Velzy said, referring to slavery. "And it was a violent institution, maintained by force — brutal force." The vigil, sponsored by the college and the Delaware County Safe Against Violence program, commemorated the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, said Samantha Siano, a counselor for Safe Against Violence.
