Cold water awaits anglers
DELHI — The weather forecast isn't promising for the first day of trout season Tuesday, but that probably won't stop seasoned anglers, conservation officials said. "Trout season's going to start off cold," said Norm McBride, state Department of Environmental Conservation fish biologist. "But we are a lot better off now than we were two weeks ago. "It looked bleak then, but the snow has all melted now," McBride said Friday. "Just last week the West Branch was flooding and out of the banks, but it's back in the banks now." McBride said the water flow is dropping, and streams should be accessible. It was uncertain Sunday how new snowfall would affect water levels.
School trips affected by world events
A trip for Cherry Valley-Springfield students to France and a visit by Franklin students to the United Nations are among the casualties of world violence, school officials said.
Miss Otsego crowned with headache, smile
ONEONTA —An Oneonta High School senior was crowned Miss Otsego Teen-ager 2003 during the pageant at Hartwick College on Saturday night.
Meditation walk scheduled
ONEONTA — A labyrinth walk for meditation will be held in the Celebration Room, Shineman Chapel, at Hartwick College from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Deer season a record-breaker
The 2002 deer hunting season was a record-breaker statewide, with the highest harvest ever and the second-highest buck harvest, state Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Erin M. Crotty said.
Herds weather hard winter well
Heavy snow and a prolonged cold winter didn't appear to take as high a toll on deer as was anticipated, according to a state conservation official.
Bus carrying violence-prevention message
ONEONTA —Bus tours will be held in four counties this week to teach parents and those who work with children about violence prevention.
Official: Insurance fraud serious problem
ONEONTA —The state Insurance Department is looking into expanding its frauds investigation office in Oneonta, the department's superintendent said.
Money woes cause farmers to expand
Economic demands have forced many local farmers to expand their operations to make ends meet, officials said. Franklin dairy farmer Cathy Stalter said her husband, Shane, expanded his herd from about 75 to 95 cows, after taking over the operation from his parents in 1986. The extra income the cows produce was needed to cover increased costs on the farm for such items as feed and labor, she said. This reflects a trend reported recently by the state Agriculture Statistics Service, which said while small farms have declined, medium and large operations in the state have increased. Meanwhile, the service said, the amount of land being farmed is constant, at about 7.7 million acres.
Franklin student shines on piano to earn new scholarship
A Franklin Central School senior has played her way to the first scholarship given by her county's music teachers. Miranda Burgin was notified in mid-March that she will receive the first $500 award given by the Delaware County Music Teachers Association. She said she will use the money to study music at the National University of Ireland at Maynooth.
BOCES officials decry budget cuts
MILFORD — A plate of baked goods was used Friday to illustrate the impact the state's proposed budget cuts will have on Board of Cooperative Educational Services aid to area school districts.
Investigators: Heater likely caused fire
COOPERSTOWN - Fire investigators said they believe Wednesday's fire at the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home on Grove Street in Cooperstown was caused by a propane space heater in the basement of the building.
Inmate accused in biting assault
DELHI — A Stamford man arrested Aug. 9 for allegedly buying thousands of dollars worth of merchandise using stolen credit card numbers was charged with assault after accusations he bit a fellow inmate.
Delhi to move sixth-graders
DELHI — Delhi Central School District board members have decided how to rearrange classes to make way for high school construction. Now they have to fine-tune the plan.
Reality Check to Hollywood: Shame on you
Six hundred people have been invited to Albany this Saturday to witness the presentation of the Reality Check Fame and Shame Awards.
Woman arrested in custody case
PLAINFIELD — A West Virginia woman accused of taking her two children from their father and fleeing to Otsego County was arrested in Plainfield this week, Otsego deputies said.
Friday, March 28, 2003
Otsego could see sales tax rise to 8 percent
The Otsego County Board of Representatives will consider a resolution Wednesday to raise the county's sales tax 1 percentage point, representatives said. A second resolution, asking the state to rescind a request to double the county bed tax, will also be placed before the board, according to Rep. Charles Bateman, R-Cooperstown. If the resolution is approved by the board and the state, sales tax in the county would increase from 7 percent to 8 percent. Four percent of that goes to the state, and a percentage of the remainder is distributed to municipalities within the county, according to Rep. Hugh Henderson, chairman of the county's Budget, Ways and Means Committee.
Friends recount unique Moynihan
Ray Christensen misses his friend and neighbor, former U.S. Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who died Wednesday at 76.
Students breaking philosophy ground
When the eighth annual undergraduate philosophy conference opens today at SUCO, 12 students from Cooperstown High School will be among the speakers.
Sidney budget proposal returns three jobs
SIDNEY — About 100 people at Thursday's Sidney Board of Education meeting heard the superintendent recommend a budget that drops proposed busing and restores three teaching positions cut in an earlier proposal.
Dinner for troops called a success
DELHI — The "Support Our Troops" dinner at the Delhi American Legion was a rousing success, according to event organizers.
SUCO program offers variety
ONEONTA — Students and faculty will meet to consider topics from "The Problem of Evil" to "Power, Identity and Social Order" at a philosophy conference today and Saturday.
State will give $1.6 million for health care
A program to recruit and train health-care workers in upstate New York will receive $1.6 million from the state, the Iroquois Healthcare Association announced Wednesday.
Thursday, March 27, 2003
Blaze demolishes retirement home
COOPERSTOWN - The Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home, a stately retirement home bordered by Spring, Maple, Grove and Glen streets in Cooperstown, burned down early Wednesday. None of its 13 residents was there, because the facility had been undergoing a $4 million-to-$5 million renovation since September. The residents have been staying at the Otesaga in Cooperstown. The home had been scheduled to reopen in just 30 days. The cause of the fire hasn't been determined, officials said Wednesday. The fire was called in at about 4:15 a.m. but had been burning a while before it was noticed by Angie Hurst, who lives across the street.
Moynihan dies at 76
Former Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, a part-time Pindars Corners gentleman farmer who became an iconoclastic scholar-politician and served four terms in the Senate, died Wednesday. He was 76.
Empire Zones get final touches
ONEONTA —The boundaries of Otsego County's Empire Zone are being amended before the final plan is sent to the state, according to the county's new zone coordinator.
Sidney faces tough budget
SIDNEY — The Sidney Board of Education will receive controversial recommendations about a proposed budget for next year at tonight's regular meeting, officials said.
Program for runaways to serve area
ONEONTA —A runaway and homeless youth program is being expanded to the area, the Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth announced Tuesday.
Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Heightened security not affecting too many
The war in Iraq is under way and Americans live under an orange alert — but increased security measures locally have not affected the daily routines of most people. Troop C Commander Maj. Thomas Kelly said since the orange alert level was announced, every county has identified critical infrastructure and vulnerable sites, and patrols have increased at these sites. Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman James Eisel said the county's Safety Advisory Committee is prepared to meet if it needs to put a plan in place to deal with an emergency.
DNA led to arrest after 28 years
SIDNEY — The case of a Madison County man charged last week with murder in the 1975 death of a former Sidney teenager is going before a grand jury this week.
Local man wins forestry award
ONEONTA — Henry Kernan grew up among the stone canyons of Manhattan but decided to settle near the trees he loves so much.
Reps seek ways to improve government
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives will hold a special meeting at 7 p.m. today to discuss ways to improve the efficiency of county government.
Senate OKs bill on health mandates
ALBANY — The state Senate passed legislation Tuesday that would create a commission to scrutinize new health coverage mandates proposed in New York.
Demand for jet under review
SIDNEY — A Connecticut company is trying to determine if there is sufficient business interest in bringing jet service to the Sidney airport, a company official said.
Cooperstown man guilty of manslaughter
COOPERSTOWN - Edward Warner pleaded guilty in Otsego County Court on Monday to second-degree vehicular manslaughter and driving while intoxicated.
Tuesday, March 25, 2003
Two hospitalized after accident
SIDNEY — Two motorists were airlifted to regional hospitals Monday afternoon following a two-vehicle collision in the town of Sidney, state police at Sidney said. John Barriger, 20, of Sidney Center was driving on state Route 357, toward Unadilla, at about 3 p.m., troopers said, when he swerved into the oncoming lane to avoid an object in the road. His sport utility vehicle collided head-on with a similar vehicle being driven by Heather Thomson, 28, of Unadilla, troopers said. The accident occurred near the East Sidney Dam.
Laurens team takes top spot in the region
On Sunday, the Laurens Winterguard gave itself an anniversary gift. The Jaguars won their first regional competition in their 35-year history, with a score that made them the No. 5 team in the nation.
Community Awareness group keeps building
ONEONTA —The Community Awareness Taskforce met Monday night to follow up on this month's community forum and continue structuring its organization.
Vandals break windows at school
ONEONTA — Vandals have reportedly broken 10 windows at Greater Plains Elementary School over the last three months, a school official said Monday.
Sex abuse case ends in jail time
DELHI — A Delhi man charged with sexually abusing two girls pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Summit pinpoints need for Empire Zone in Delaware
SIDNEY — Two large Sidney employers told a group of area business and political leaders Monday about the opportunities of doing business in Delaware County and what they need to be successful.
Monday, March 24, 2003
Hearing is seeing for students
ROXBURY — Creatures and scenes adorned the walls of the Roxbury Central School music room following a project in which the students drew images inspired by what they heard. Amy Royal played a Modest Musorgsky piano composition titled "Pictures at an Exhibition" for her classes and explained the story behind the music. The project was an extension of a Kids in the Kaatskills program. Justin Kolb of Fleischmanns spent two days at Roxbury Central in January explaining the benefits of learning music and sharing his experiences as a traveling musician. Kolb said he talked to Royal about "Pictures at an Exhibition" and suggested the art project.
Prayer plays 'major part' for area clergy
ONEONTA —Area clergy dealt with the Iraq conflict in different ways during church services Sunday, but most reported that prayer —for servicemen, civilians and peace - played a major part.
Guest-house owners upset with limits
ONEONTA — Area guest house owners say their summer tourism-driven businesses could suffer because of a state law regulating occupancy levels.
Trooper comes home to lead Troop C
After nine months away from the station of state police Troop C in Sidney, Maj. Thomas Kelly said, "I have returned home."
Hospital will operate ailing health clinic
WORCESTER - A struggling health clinic here will be taken over by the hospital in Oneonta in an effort to save it. The Southeastern Otsego Health Center will become a Fox Hospital-owned practice in an attempt to solve the center's financial troubles.
Poorer schools may lose the most
ALBANY — Schools with poor test scores would suffer aid cuts 45 percent greater than the state's most well-off districts under Gov. George Pataki's proposed budget.
Saturday, March 22, 2003
And the winner is ... probably 'Chicago'
ONEONTA - This year's Academy Awards will be all about "all that jazz," local film buffs predicted. "`Chicago' might sweep," said John Carter, an avid movie-watcher and longtime follower of the Academy Awards. "`Chicago' is going to be the big movie." "Chicago" - based on the musical about two jailed murderesses competing for notoriety in the Jazz Age - is expected to garner several of the golden statuettes known as Oscars at the 75th annual Academy Awards on Sunday night. "This is the year of the musical," said Terry Mattison, owner of the Oneonta Theatre. The four members of The Daily Star's Oscar panel described the movie as "exciting," "cynical but lively" and having "a lot of energy."
Student's writing tops in N.Y.
A sixth-grader at Center Street Elementary School in Oneonta beat his counterparts from around the state in this year's Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest.
Four charged in Worcester meth probe
An 11-month investigation into the alleged manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine in Worcester has led to the arrest of four Otsego County residents, Otsego deputies said Friday.
Attorney general: Nurse lied, stole
A former licensed practical nurse at The Meadows, Otsego County's nursing home, has been charged with several crimes, according to the state Attorney General's Office.
Friday, March 21, 2003
Veterans have mixed reactions to attack on Iraq
Local veterans of various eras said Thursday, with a few exceptions, they support military action to disarm Iraq. John Gallagher, 78, of Sidney, who served in the Navy during World War II, said President Bush gave too much time to working out a diplomatic solution to the problems of disarmament. Iraqi President Saddam Hussein "has been laughing at us for the last 12 years" since the first resolutions calling for disarmament, Gallagher said. Referring to the months of debate in the United Nations over resolutions to force disarmament, he said "The U.N. is nothing but a bunch of politicians."
Families anxious about troops' safety
When the first bombs struck Baghdad on Wednesday night they also struck fear into the hearts of relatives and friends of U.S. troops who were glued to their televisions.
Lipari picked by Republicans
COOPERSTOWN - Former Oneonta Alderman Cynthia Lipari was selected as the Republican candidate to be Otsego County clerk at Thursday night's caucus of the county Republican Party.
OHS students among war protesters
ONEONTA — Protests were held throughout the area Thursday, following the start of missile strikes against Iraq.
Open houses assure sappy weekend for all who attend
WEST EDMESTON - This weekend is free maple weekend, when people are invited to visit a local sap house and see how maple syrup and other maple products are made.
Thursday, March 20, 2003
Rodents running around in Masonville
MASONVILLE — While Tina Phillips talks about the problem that is keeping her up nights in her Masonville home, she stops, points and says, "There's one over there." Atop a small pile of lumber, basking in the afternoon sun, was a long brownish rodent that soon scurried between the logs on her front lawn. Walking past the homes of three neighbors in the hamlet on Wednesday, it was not hard to find several more rats running around the porches and foundations. She said they seemed to be coming from a seemingly abandoned yellow house across the street from her. She said lately she has stayed up nights listening to the rats running across her floors.
Unadilla Chamber honors resident and business
UNADILLA — A Unadilla resident who has given thousands of hours to his community and a business that dates back to the 1800s will be honored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Otsego to present 3 redistricting plans
COOPERSTOWN - During a confusing meeting Wednesday night, the Otsego County Board of Representatives scheduled three possible redistricting plans for a public hearing on April 2.
Peace fasting goes on
ONEONTA —A group of college professors, staff and students has extended its solid food fast in support of a peaceful solution to the conflict with Iraq.
Former alderman joins GOP pool for county clerk bid
COOPERSTOWN - Former Oneonta Alderman Cynthia Lipari has decided to challenge Bill Gates of Otsego for the Republican nomination to be the next Otsego County clerk.
Wednesday, March 19, 2003
Family has way to care for troops
DELHI — As the threat of war in Iraq draws nearer, a Delhi mother and daughter said they are calming their fears by packing care boxes to send to troops serving overseas. When Brett Walsh, 21, headed for Kuwait on Feb. 12, Jordan Walsh and her 9-year-old daughter, Kellie, decided to launch an effort to send some of the comforts of home to Brett and other area people who are serving in the armed forces. "I was so upset when he left," Jordan Walsh said. "But then I began to realize how much Kellie missed her brother and how worried she was, so I decided to do something positive." On Tuesday, March 25, they are holding a "Dinner to Support Our Troops Overseas" from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Delhi American Legion hall.
Many in area plan to protest
COOPERSTOWN - People opposed to the Bush Administration's war against Iraq want to step up their protest as bombs start dropping on Baghdad.
SUCO volunteers take home four at awards banquet
Student volunteers at the State University College at Oneonta garnered four of seven community service awards presented during a recent national conference in Ohio.
Mayor: Budget will be a challenge
ONEONTA — Mayor Kim Muller talked potholes, street construction and committing more resources to combating gang and drinking-related violence during her State of the City address Tuesday night.
Delaware County festival in the works
On Memorial Day weekend the Delaware County Fairground in Walton will be a haven for blues fans when the Catskill Mountain Blues, Bikes and BBQ Festival debuts, according to Jason Stanton, Delaware County STOP-DWI coordinator.
Police look into reported hate crime in Oneonta park
ONEONTA — City police are continuing their investigation into a reported hate crime involving the alleged assault March 12 of an openly gay woman in Huntington Park.
Investigation continues into fatal crash
Troopers are investigating the possibility that alcohol contributed to a two-car accident last month that left two motorists dead and another critically injured, state police at Sidney said.
Leaders warn that state government may shut down
ALBANY — The leader of the state Senate warned Tuesday that threats of a government shutdown are real, adding that a drawn-out budget battle this year could leave New York broke by May.
Tuesday, March 18, 2003
Assaulted officer back on the job
ONEONTA — Three days after being assaulted by a rowdy party-goer on Water Street, city police officer Jennifer Keown is bruised but back on the beat. Nicholas A. Rodulfo, the State University College at Oneonta student who allegedly attacked Keown by smashing her head against the pavement during the early Saturday morning brawl, is no longer a student at SUCO, college officials said. On Monday, Keown was back at work at the Oneonta Police Department. A bruise covered a knot above her right eye and a scabbed-over cut on her forehead was beginning to heal.
Police: Drug lab found
Two Richfield Springs residents were among four people arrested Friday morning after an alleged clandestine meth lab was discovered in the town of Warren, state police said.
Economy boost to be the focus of summit in Sidney
Delaware County's state legislators and business representatives will share ideas for improving the local economy at a meeting scheduled for Monday in Sidney.
Silver presses for education money cut in Pataki plan
ALBANY — State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver said Monday he will push for roughly $1.7 billion in total school aid for the upcoming fiscal year — nearly $5 million more than the governor has proposed cutting.
Moynihan critical but stable
Former Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, D-Pindars Corners, was in critical condition Monday in a Washington, D.C. hospital with an infection related to an emergency appendectomy, aides said.
Monday, March 17, 2003
Hundreds attend local vigils
Hundreds of people attended candlelight vigils Sunday night in Oneonta and other area communities to oppose United States plans for war with Iraq. About 60 people participated on Main Street in Oneonta Sunday night to protest the possible military action. Gathering in a circle on the Main Street Plaza, the protesters carried candles and sang songs. "I'm basically here to try to voice concerns over what seems imminent," said Oneonta resident Mark Davies, 36. "I'm concerned about losing troops, concerned about losing civilians."
Mayoral races set for Tuesday
DELHI — Delhi Mayor John Leddy opted not to seek re-election this year, leaving the door open for a mayoral race between Susann Durham and David Truscott.
Village's image is driving issue in Milford race
Both candidates running for mayor of Milford agree on one thing — they say it's time to clean up the reputation of a village government tarnished by the alleged criminal acts of its current mayor.
'City of the Hills' art festival planned
ONEONTA —Planning is underway for the first City of the Hills Arts Festival. "For one day, Oneonta will become the center of the arts' universe," said local artist Jack Beal, one of the jurors at the festival, in a statement.
Landfill legal battle not over yet
The legal wrangling over a Unadilla landfill is not yet over, several people involved with a lawsuit on the issue said Thursday.
Student charged in police assault
ONEONTA —A college student assaulted a city police officer who was trying to break up a fight early Saturday morning, police said.
Bill would bar suits against gun makers
ALBANY — State lawmakers have introduced a bill meant to ban lawsuits against gun makers, who have been the target of numerous legal actions across the country in recent years.
Peltier defense leader to speak at college
ONEONTA — The head of Leonard Peltier's defense panel will talk about the Native American activist's legal battle at 7 p.m. Thursday at the State University College at Oneonta.
Saturday, March 15, 2003
What decides drug prosecution?
COOPERSTOWN - On Aug. 18, James Holmes, 21, of Chappaqua was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. State police say he was driving 84 mph down Interstate 88 in Otego with 32 individually wrapped packets of cocaine, plus six grams of psilocybin mushrooms, in his car. The charge against Holmes, one of the Rockefeller drug laws, presumes he was trying to sell narcotics and carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. However, more than six months later, Holmes — who lives in the same affluent community as former President Bill Clinton and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton — has not been indicted by an Otsego County grand jury.
Delhi's Fitch's Bridge garners national timber merit award
DELHI — Fitch's Covered Bridge received an Award of Merit in the 2002 National Timber Bridge Awards competition, which honored 15 outstanding bridges across the United States, according to Middletown Supervisor Len Utter.
Magistrates to address 'floating felonies'
COOPERSTOWN - "Floating felonies" will be among topics discussed when the Otsego County Magistrates' Association meets at the county courthouse at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Teachers learn about child safety
ONEONTA — This month, students in Oneonta's elementary schools will be taught to yell as loud as they can, say "no," and be mistrustful, all in the interest of their own safety.
Cooperstown psyched for semis
COOPERSTOWN - Basketball's the rage at the purported birthplace of baseball, where the Cooperstown Redskins are headed to the state semifinals. The Cooperstown High School boys' basketball team, undefeated in 25 games this season, plays Potsdam tonight and the winner goes to the class C state finals. Already, the boys from Cooperstown are winners in the minds of many, according to their high school principal, Gary Kuch. "They're a wonderful bunch of guys, not a big ego among them," said Kuch, "and we're all pulling for them. "I'm not sure we got a lot done academically today, but everyone had a good time," Kuch said Thursday.
Otsego board will see 3 redistrict plans
COOPERSTOWN - During a sometimes contentious meeting Thursday, Otsego County's Intergovernmental Affairs Committee voted to place three redistricting plans before the full county board Wednesday.
Sidney school chief explains options
SIDNEY — More than 250 parents, teachers and students of Sidney Central School attended Thursday's Board of Education meeting, many to find answers to questions about announced teacher layoffs and proposed busing for next year to meet an anticipated budget shortfall.
Speaker: Fight sweatshop industries
ONEONTA —A social justice activist urged students Thursday night to fight the use of sweatshops and child labor.
Anti-war protesters and troop backers clash
DELHI — They lined up on Delhi's Main Street last Saturday morning — peace proponents on one side of the road and the Support Our Troops group on the other, but both sides agree on one point — they don't want war.
Thursday, March 13, 2003
Travel focus on Cuban farms
COOPERSTOWN - In Cuba, farmers make more money than doctors, according to three local people who visited there recently. "After you've experienced famine, you value food highly," said Gary Turits of Hartwick. Turits, Kevin Hodne of Oneonta and Amy Kenyon of East Meredith joined a Food First educational trip to observe agricultural and farming methods in Cuba. The travelers said they noted how Cuban farmers grew produce organically, planted gardens that also beautified cities and helped social institutions. The Cubans had famine in the 1990s after the Soviet Union collapsed and the United States government tightened its trade embargo against the Carribean island.
Oneonta board takes no action on sprinkler plan
ONEONTA — City officials Wednesday reviewed a recommendation requiring bar owners to install sprinkler systems and make other changes to bring their establishments up to current state code.
Officials keep eyes on bar safety
ONEONTA — Recent nightclub tragedies in Chicago and Rhode Island have generated discussion between Oneonta pub owners and public safety officials on how to keep downtown bars safe.
Delaware school asks for ideas
DELHI — Administrators at Delaware Academy and Central School are grappling with the problem of shifting classes to make way for high school construction.
Bluestone workers ask for no byways
DELHI — Designating state Routes 206, 97 or 79 as scenic byways would impact quarrying, mining and forestry industries, according to Gerard Kamp, New York State Bluestone Association president.
This time, it's what is outside that counts
This will be one event where it may be possible to judge a book by its cover. Two professional area artists — Jennifer Hughes of Milford and Treadwell resident Bertha Rogers — were recently invited to Milford Central School to teach high school students the arts of papermaking and bookbinding. The students' finished work — about 30 books — will be on display Thursday during an event at the school library. Between 6:45 and 7:30 p.m., students will discuss and read from their projects, and Hughes and Rogers will talk about the process that guided the classes through their work.
Delaware County board may end CSEA stalemate
DELHI — After almost a year at impasse in negotiations, the Delaware County Board of Supervisors will vote today on an agreement with CSEA workers.
Fasting group nears 300-letter goal
ONEONTA —A group fasting in protest of possible military action in Iraq is close to its goal, members said Tuesday.
Smokers to lose more venues
A recent survey of Cooperstown bars and restaurants found that an overwhelming majority would support legislation to ban smoking in restaurants.
Local LWV groups back proposal for nine-member Otsego County board
ONEONTA —Members of the League of Women Voters in Cooperstown and Oneonta announced Tuesday that they support a redistricting plan to reduce the number of representatives on the Otsego County board from 14 to nine.
Assembly GOP aims to boost agriculture
ALBANY — Concerned that too many farmers are losing their land and livelihood, Assembly Republicans on Tuesday announced a plan aimed at expanding markets for New York agriculture products.
Vandalism, burglary arrests made
NORWICH — Seven men from New Berlin have been arrested in two separate cases of burglary and vandalism at buildings in the Unadilla Valley School District, Chenango County deputies said this week.
Clergy abuse victims look for changes
ALBANY — Victims of clergy sexual abuse Tuesday called on the state's Catholic Conference to support legislation that would force religious institutions to report abuse cases to civil authorities.
Students decry tuition increase
ALBANY — Surrounded by police, more than a thousand college students gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday to denounce Gov. George Pataki's proposed $1,200 SUNY tuition hike and higher-education cuts.
Area hospital workers head to Albany today to lobby
ONEONTA —Local Hospital administrators and staff will lobby state lawmakers today on various health-care issues. According to the Healthcare Association of New York State, 3,000 of its members are expected to converge on the Capitol today.
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Development OK may not be far off
ONEONTA — Final approval for the construction of a proposed single-family housing subdivision off Winney Hill Road could come as early as this month, Oneonta town officials said Monday. One resident living near the proposed subdivision says he is concerned about the increased traffic that could result from the construction of what is planned to be 53 homes. Oneonta businessman James A. Baldo purchased the 15-plus acre property that lies between Winney Hill Road and Greater Plains elementary school from Cathedral Farms owner Martin Patton on February 28 for an undisclosed amount.
Arson charges join teen's burglary indictment
DELHI — A Meridale teenager charged with robbing Smoker's Choice in Delhi on Feb. 13 has also been charged in connection with a fire at Delaware Academy and Central School on May 22.
When the call comes in, Hooker still a Marine
ALBANY — At the beginning of the year, Daniel Hooker took an oath to represent the people of the 127th Assembly District in Albany. For the time being, another oath will take precedence.
Local contest rouses symphony of competition
ONEONTA —Rumor is Oneonta Middle School Principal Martha Forgiano has been seen in the school's music room lately. It's not that the music students are unruly. Forgiano is practicing.
Girl critical after snowmobile crash
An 8-year-old girl was in critical condition Monday at Albany Medical Center following an accident in Roxbury on Saturday. Four people were hurt in three separate accidents this weekend, authorities said.
Man gets three months for rape
DELHI — A Bloomville man who admitted raping a young girl was sentenced in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Power outages leave residents in dark, cold
COBLESKILL —More than 5,000 people were without power for over four hours Monday afternoon during unscheduled maintenance, power company officials said.
'We must all be watchdogs'
ONEONTA —A civil rights forum drew more than 100 people Sunday afternoon, in the first public event of a community civil rights task force. "It's not just about the forum, it's about the dialogue that has been created," said Tanya Washington, deputy bureau chief of the Civil Rights Bureau of the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). "And that will make change." Organizers estimated that about 150 attended the "Know Your Rights" forum Sunday afternoon at the Holiday Inn in Oneonta. The forum was held by the Community Awareness Taskforce and the state Office of the Attorney General for citizens to find out about their rights and what resources are available.
Realism a study in patience
You can't rush an artist —especially a realist. Painter Dan Tennant, who specializes in detailed still life compositions, said he spends between 30 and 160 hours on each painting, depending on size.
Schumer wants hikes in natural-gas price probed
Data released last week by the Department of Energy show natural gas heating costs rising by 30 percent this winter, soaring almost as rapidly as heating oil, according to Sen. Charles Schumer. And natural gas prices could stay high for years to come, he said.
Chef to cook to feed his fund
ONEONTA — Master chef Joseph K. Poon will return to his alma mater Thursday to prepare a Chinese dinner that will raise funds for a scholarship in his name. Members of the community are invited to the event at the Morris Conference Center on the State University College at Oneonta campus.
Delaware barns damaged in weekend blazes
DELHI —Fires damaged two barns in Delaware County Saturday, officials said. Seven departments were called to a fire in a horse barn on Route 10 between Hamden and Delhi at 2:36 p.m. Saturday afternoon, Delhi Fire Chief Gerard Garofalow said.
Sap season starts slowly
Maple season is getting off to a slow start this year — thanks to the unseasonably cold weather that has kept the sap from flowing freely. "The sap has not started to run yet, but I hope it starts soon," said Barbara Hill of Shaver-Hill Farm in Harpersfield. "We are going to start tapping the trees, but we know that, as of Monday, they weren't making syrup yet in Ohio, and they are always a couple of weeks ahead of us." Phil Ashe of Pumpkin Hollow Maple in Oneonta said he and his partners, Ronald Beers and Charles Ashe, began tapping the trees a week ago, and on the high elevations, the sap was just beginning to run. "If the sun can get to the trees, they will run," Ashe said.
Bassett, Fox work together for health fair
ONEONTA - Ordinarily, Bassett Healthcare and A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital are competitors, but they've teamed up to sponsor the area's second annual women's health fair.
Maple recipes to be compiled
Winter's icy grip may have delayed the flow of sap in sugar maples that dot the area, but it hasn't stopped area cooks from using maple products to develop recipes for a cookbook.
Weekend to offer inside look at production
Maple Weekend, sponsored by the New York State Maple Producers, is an opportunity to visit local maple producers to see how syrup and other maple products are made.
Landowner to close snowmobile trail
HARTWICK - The main snowmobile trail between Mount Vision and Schuyler Lake will shut down Monday unless someone pays $250 for destroying Scott Shafer's car.
Police probe thefts
ONEONTA — City police are continuing their investigation into last month's reported burglary at a house on Ford Avenue. The owner of the residence reported that between 8:20 a.m. Feb. 24 and 10 a.m. Feb. 26, someone opened an unlocked porch door at the back of the house and stole her wallet, which contained credit cards, personal papers and $150 in cash, police said.
Proposed camp still in the wings
WEST ONEONTA — Oneonta town officials are still waiting for businessman Martin Patton to submit detailed plans on a project to build a baseball camp on his Cathedral Farms property.
Friday, March 7, 2003
Snow comes back
ONEONTA — March is an unpredictable month when it comes to the weather. Last year at this time, folks around here could be seen frolicking outdoors in their shirtsleeves, enjoying temperatures that climbed well into the 40s and 50s. Thursday was another story. Not only was it cold, it snowed ... and it snowed a lot more than was predicted. A coastal storm that redeveloped off the coast of Virginia and moved a little farther north than expected was to blame for the snow — between 2 and 4 inches — that fell in this area, according to a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Binghamton.
Bush's talk lacked 'smoking gun'
President Bush, in preparing the nation for a possible invasion of Iraq, used Thursday's news conference to reiterate the administration's post-9/11 foreign policy strategy, according to one local college professor.
Paramedic delivers baby in ambulance
The stork had a moving target to hit when it was time for Layla Beatrice Carol Sprague to make her first appearance.
Students to hold non-alcoholic party Saturday
ONEONTA —A non-alcoholic dance club will have a trial run Saturday night, after a group of students and college officials started seeking non-alcoholic activities for those under 21. "Mocktail Madness" will be held at Freddy's and Slammer's on Main Street from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Delaware studies results in county welfare program
DELHI — Tracking the progress of people who leave the welfare system has helped the Delaware County Department of Social Services figure out if the system prepares people to be self-sufficient.
Farm program seeks applicants
The clock is ticking for area farmers who want to receive payments from a new federal grain bill, program officials said.
Issue of abuse by clergy prompts bill in Senate
ALBANY — Victims of clergy sexual abuse would have more time to sue, and churches would be prohibited from using charitable dollars for "gag-ordered" legal settlements under a package of bills unveiled at the Capitol on Wednesday.
Anti-war protest reaches Hartwick College campus
ONEONTA — A professor, a staff member and a student at Hartwick College began a fast Wednesday afternoon in support of a peaceful solution to the conflict with Iraq. Meanwhile, dozens of students at the school gathered at various times throughout the day for "Books not Bombs," a national student strike on campuses throughout the United States. Students at Oneonta High School also demonstrated during their lunch break against the possibility of war. Tens of thousands of students at more than 300 colleges and universities pledged to join in the anti-war protests, according to the National Youth and Student Peace Coalition.
Lowe's store may come to Oneonta
ONEONTA —As Home Depot prepares to build a store on the Southside, rumors say one of its competitors could move in just down the road.
Oneonta snow removal budget already surpassed
A hard winter has taken its toll on the city of Oneonta's 2003 snow removal budget, which is already maxed out with 10 months left in the fiscal year.
New cuts may limit tax hike, officials say
ONEONTA — Taxes in the city school district may only go up 7.05 percent, down from the 7.92 percent increase estimated last week, school officials said Wednesday.
Fifth-graders helping teach young readers
JEFFERSON — For 40 minutes every Tuesday and Thursday morning, some fifth-graders at Jefferson Central School become teachers. The students, part of the school's Reading Together program, teach second-graders reading comprehension. "They love it," said Julie Wexler, a second-grade teacher. "Everybody wants to be part of the program." Teachers at Jefferson have credited Reading Together, which the University of North Carolina oversees, for improving reading in both grades, cultivating new friendships, increasing respect for teachers and raising the maturity level of the older students.
Home Depot has Oneonta plans
ONEONTA —Home Depot is planning to build a store on the Southside, according to site plans submitted Tuesday to the Town Planning Board. Pending approval, construction could start on a $3 million, approximately 80,000-square-foot store on the 10-acre lot between Hannaford Plaza and Main Street in May, according to Oneonta town Supervisor Duncan Davie.
School budget blasted
ALBANY — Joe Dushko didn't mince words. "This budget is a travesty," said the Sherburne-Earlville special education teacher as he stood inside Assemblyman Bill Magee's Albany office Tuesday.
New York OKs inmate expansion in Otsego jail
ALBANY — The state gave Otsego County jail administrators a little new breathing room Monday by taking away some of the inmates' elbow room.
Shelter building may start in April
ONEONTA — The construction of a proposed homeless shelter in Oneonta's Sixth Ward could begin in April, weather permitting, an official for Opportunities For Otsego said Tuesday.
Bainbridge sets hearing
Regional planning will take another step forward next Tuesday, when the Bainbridge Town Board will hold a public hearing on its comprehensive plan for development.
Tuesday, March 4, 2003
Challenger seeks DA spot
John Muehl, a lawyer who lives in Milford, is seeking the Republican nomination to be Otsego County's next district attorney. William "Jack" Gibbons, who holds the $120,000 post, said he hasn't decided whether to seek a third term. Muehl, 36 — Delaware County's chief assistant district attorney — sent a letter to the county Republican Committee on Feb. 26, requesting support for his nomination.
Author, local couple share Czech story
ONEONTA — In the 1980s, Jirka and Lucka Kratochvil received a copy of "Rowboat to Prague," an eyewitness account of the 1968 Soviet-led occupation of Czechoslovakia.
Senate to study health costs
ALBANY — The state Senate is setting its sights on the soaring costs of health care. Senate Insurance Committee Chairman James Seward, R-Milford, said Monday the Republican-controlled house will hold hearings next month to examine the impact that rising health-coverage costs are having on New York residents and businesses.
Two to seek Otsego GOP chair
COOPERSTOWN - Two candidates to become the next chairman of Otsego County's Republican Party have sent letters seeking the endorsement of the county's GOP committee.
Debate: Tax cuts, yes or no
ONEONTA —The economy isn't as bad as it seems, according to two panelists who debated the merits of economic stimulus plans.
Environmentalists: Conservation work in jeopardy
ALBANY — A Pataki administration plan to "raid" about $53 million from a dedicated environmental-protection fund is jeopardizing land acquisitions across New York, environmentalists claimed Monday.
Monday, March 3, 2003
`Idiosyncratic' special for Milford girl in regional spelling bee
ONEONTA — Milford Central School eighth-grader Mary Beth Chapman knows the idiosyncrasies of spelling words correctly. That includes spelling idiosyncratic — the winning word in The Daily Star Spelling Bee — correct. "I knew what the word was," Chapman said after the contest, held Saturday morning in the Goodrich Theater at the State University College at Oneonta. "I knew how to spell it." Chapman competed against 25 other local sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders to earn a place in the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee in Washington this May. This is the first year The Daily Star has sponsored the event.
Teachers to lobby in Albany
Dozens of area teachers will join educators from around the state in Albany on Tuesday to lobby lawmakers to prevent proposed cuts to education funding.
Publication of 'fantasy' art becomes a reality
Bainbridge artist Michael Price has a simple way of describing his woodland fantasy paintings. "I just paint a good scene of the woods, throw in a turtle on a hang glider and bang, you've got fantasy," the 41-year-old Price said this week.
Interest in local products sought
Organizers of an agricultural marketing group say they want to cultivate a greater interest in locally grown farm products.
Historians may buy old house
WALTON — The historic Eells House may soon become the home of the Walton Historical Society's collection of historic artifacts and memorabilia.
Otsego residents get tips on waste
COOPERSTOWN — Otsego County's Solid Waste coordinator, Terry Bliss, has compiled a two-page public information sheet on disposal of solid waste in Otsego County.
Cat in the Hat to visit; Seuss activities planned
Students at Greater Plains Elementary School will be eating green eggs and ham for breakfast Monday morning. In Franklin, students will wear their clothes backward, don wacky shoes and have their faces painted to look like cats. Sound like something out of a Dr. Seuss book? Well, it is. School children in Franklin, Oneonta and several other local districts will join students across the country in celebrating Dr. Seuss' birthday this week during the sixth annual Read Across America. "It's always fun to have a party," said Barbara Havlik, library media specialist at Oneonta's Riverside Elementary School. "Especially when it involves reading."
Plaza opens in Otsego County
A Cooperstown businessman says he has received positive community feedback about his recently constructed retail plaza in Hartwick Seminary. Jeffrey and Wanda Haggerty, owners of Haggerty Ace Hardware in Cooperstown, are owners of the new Maple Ridge Plaza at 4773 State Route 28. The plaza's first tenant, Cooperstown Auto Parts Inc., opened for business Feb. 5.
Mural lights up Bassett
COOPERSTOWN - When you're on the mend, there's nothing like a walk in the hundred-acre wood to make you feel better.
Area far from deadbeat with support
Child support collections in New York state have been at record levels for eight years in a row, with many counties doubling collections since 1994, according to state officials.
Otsego businesses can get facelifts
COOPERSTOWN - Businesses on Otsego County's main streets will soon be able to get help to spruce up their storefronts. The county initiated its Main Street Program with a press conference Friday morning at the Otsego County Office Building.
Federal tax cuts, budget
ONEONTA — The impact of the president's tax-cut and budget proposals on the ailing economy will be the topic of a community forum at 8 p.m. Monday at the Autumn Cafe. The forum, part of a monthly series of community meetings open to the public, will address the question "Our Economic Doldrums: Will the Bush Tax Cut and Budget Proposals Help or Hinder?"
Coordinator chosen to work on Empire Zone
A coordinator has been hired for Otsego County's Empire Zone. Amanda Friedl started work Feb. 10, the county Department of Economic Development announced Tuesday.
