Teen killed in crash
NORTH FRANKLIN — Smiling, with his baseball hat on backwards — that's how family members said they'd remember David G. Allen, 18, who died Saturday morning in a car accident near his North Franklin home. Delaware County sheriff's deputies said a Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by Michael Driggs, 18, of Franklin, hit a tree along the eastbound lane of state Route 28 just east of the state Route 357 junction at about 3:30 a.m.
Static clings to local cell phones
The ads are almost as omnipresent as the product they advertise. A man travels the country, cell phone glued to his ear, asking, "Can you hear me now?"
Breaking up easy to do on area calls
Driving circuitous routes through Delaware and Otsego counties to gauge cell-phone reception, two reporters turned up much the same result — coverage is sporadic.
Cooperstown seniors step into the 'real world'
COOPERSTOWN —Mother Nature cooperated Sunday afternoon, allowing the 2003 senior class at Cooperstown High School to receive diplomas along the shores of Lake Otsego.
Nearly 150 receive diplomas at OHS
ONEONTA — Oneonta High School salutatorian Meghan Stetson opened Saturday's graduation ceremony by saying she was proud to be among the nearly 150 members of the class of 2003.
Sidney gives diplomas to 106 grads
SIDNEY — Seniors, 106 strong, graduated from Sidney High School on Saturday during the school's 114th annual commencement.
Meridale postmaster ends 30-year career today
MERIDALE — After 30 years behind the counter at the Meridale post office, Postmaster John Blackman is looking forward to retirement — but he is going to miss his customers.
College classes grow
ONEONTA — Enrollment will be up this year at Hartwick College, the State University College at Oneonta and the State University College of Technology at Delhi, school officials said. "Enrollment looks very solid right now," said Larry Barrett, dean of enrollment at Delhi Tech. "We anticipate at least 1,015 new freshmen and transfer students." Full-time enrollment, Barrett said, is expected to be between 2,060 and 2,065, up from last year's 2,042 students.
Art prizes handed out in Oneonta
ONEONTA — The Susquehanna River took center stage last week as the subject of the 11th annual Jeane Pearce Walker Annual Prize for the Arts.
Daily Star award honors baseball columnist
The Daily Star honors its Player of the Year and Coach of the Year for baseball this weekend with the first Jim Hamilton Memorial Award.
Woman dies after crash in Greene
GREENE — A local woman died after being struck by a car while gathering honeybees knocked onto the road during a previous accident at 9:50 p.m. Thursday, Chenango County deputies said.
Otsego jury awards couple $35 million
COOPERSTOWN - A jury in state Supreme Court in Cooperstown rendered a $35 million verdict this week in a medical malpractice case against Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare of Utica and one of its emergency room doctors.
Grad: `Year flew by'
FRANKLIN — Thirty students graduated from Franklin Central School on Friday in the 168th commencement at the school.
Officials: Razing to start in July
ONEONTA — State and local officials gathered at the site of the future Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street on Friday afternoon to announce demolition will start soon on the vacant building at the site.
Water project on tap
Grand Gorge residents will be without water for short periods of time next week while crews replace valves as part of the Grand Gorge Water Project, Roxbury Supervisor Thomas Hynes said.
The art, craft of poems to be shared at conference in Oneonta
ONEONTA — The 13th Annual Catskill Poetry Workshop of Hartwick College, a program of writing seminars, lectures and instructional conferences on the art and craft of poetry, begins Saturday and runs through July 5.
Bees losing some sting so far
HARTWICK - When Cliff Brunner walks around his dairy farm in Hartwick this year, he notices fewer honeybees than usual. "I definitely see a difference. There just aren't as many bees as there used to be, and it worries me," Brunner said. "It's not just the honey, but all the crops that honeybees help pollinate." According to Paris Reidhead of Hartwick, an agricultural writer and former Cooperative Extension agent in Otsego County, the honeybee population is in crisis. Severe weather in the winter, two kinds of mites and possibly the effect of absorbing pesticide from genetically engineered crops have cut bee populations considerably, he said.
Cameras get lost in the eyes of local boy
ONEONTA — Callum Booker never asked to be famous, but those big, attractive eyes of his make photographers want to put him in the spotlight.
Schumer pledges help against Canadian milk
Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., is seeking federal help for state dairy farmers by having them reimbursed though trade negotiations for damages caused by Canadian imports.
Teen hit by Jet Ski; left leg broken
COLLIERSVILLE — An Oneonta teenager broke his left leg Thursday when he was hit by a Jet Ski on Goodyear Lake, said state police at Oneonta.
Students looking to next year after forensics nationals
Four area students who competed at the National Forensic League Competition didn't win any awards — but they came back armed with knowledge that may improve their chances next time.
Milford Legion Hall undergoing renovation
Members of American Legion Post 1566 in Milford have been working to renovate their Legion Hall on West Main Street in the village.
Decision may help rural schools
ALBANY — A landmark court decision Thursday that orders a change in the way New York City schools are funded is expected to have a significant impact on districts across upstate, too — particularly those in poor rural areas.
Otsego boat patrols nixed
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Sheriff's Department won't be patrolling county lakes this summer, because funds for the service were removed from the county budget. "We hope to have someone on Otsego Lake for the Fourth of July, because it gets very busy up there," Otsego County Undersheriff Bruce Carroll said Wednesday. "But other than that, we probably won't be out on the lakes." For several years, the sheriff's department has patrolled Otsego, Canadarago and Goodyear lakes on summer weekends.
CWC grants given to towns, firms
DELHI — Andes and Fleischmanns will have visitor information centers thanks to economic development grants from the Catskill Watershed Corp.
Woman from Sidney dances to NYC career
The excitement of stage and screen keeps a former Sidney student working toward her dream. Tiffany Whitaker, a 1996 graduate, said she has known what she wanted to do since she was a little girl and has pursued it ever since.
Milford offered loan, says it won't accept
Although the state approved Milford for a nearly $1.3 million interest-free loan to fix its water system, Mayor Sabine Curry said the village doesn't plan to accept the offer.
Bassett 'excited' by tamoxifen find
Tamoxifen is the top choice of doctors worldwide for preventing breast cancer from coming back - and, in high-risk women, for keeping it from striking in the first place.
Grill likely cause of fire
A leak in a gas grill was probably the cause of Tuesday's house fire in Milford that left two people hospitalized with severe burns, an official with the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services said Wednesday.
Otsego board election will have many familiar faces
All incumbents on the Otsego County Board of Representatives except Richard Thompson, D-Milford, appear to be seeking re-election, according to Sheila Ross, county deputy commissioner of elections.
Milford fire chief: Two severly burned
MILFORD — Two people were severely burned Tuesday after a fire swept through a home on Larson Road in the town of Milford, said Milford Fire Department officials. Residents of the neighborhood off Lake Shore Drive South identified the injured couple as Beverly Tarver and Stewart VanDeusen, who were taken to A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta and then transferred to Westchester Medical Center, Milford Fire Chief Richard Devlin said.
$950 SUNY hike urged
ALBANY — State University of New York Chancellor Robert King recommended Tuesday that in-state undergraduate tuition be raised by $950 per year — the same amount proposed by state lawmakers.
State tosses math exam
Area seniors in jeopardy of not graduating because they failed last week's math Regents exam will walk with their classmates after all.
Library gets books for children
The children's section at the Cooperstown Village Library received new books and furniture, thanks to a grant from the Cooperstown Rotary Club.
Dairy price vote set for June 30
A vote by national dairy cooperatives on whether to begin a plan to increase prices paid producers is scheduled for June 30, an organization official said.
Teen hit by Jeep
ONEONTA — A Westford teenager crossing Chestnut Street downtown was hit by a Jeep on Tuesday afternoon, Oneonta police said.
Delhi mural gets a face lift
DELHI — A historic mural, depicting men dressed as Calico Indians meeting in the pre-dawn hours near Andes, spans a wall in the Delhi post office.
Sidney deals with messy properties
Property upkeep was among the items the Sidney village board addressed during its regular Monday night meeting.
Summer program registration opens
ONEONTA — The city's summer-long Neighborhoods Drop-In Playground program will take registrations for Oneonta children today and Thursday.
Puritz will run for re-election
ONEONTA — Otsego County Rep. Roberta Puritz announced Tuesday that she will run for a fifth term on the board.
Mormon church vandalized
Anti-religious slogans were painted on the new building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Delhi, Delhi village police said Monday. "Numerous anti-religious and obscene slogans" were written on the walls sometime late Sunday or early Monday, police said, and damage was also caused to the shrubbery. The church, on Delview Terrace Extension, is under construction, according to Herbert Baldauf, president of the Delhi branch of the church. The 145-member congregation plans to move in July 6, he said, and the vandalism is not expected to delay construction.
Math Regents causing trouble
Charlotte Valley Central School senior Jessica Conte may not graduate Friday because she failed a standardized math test state and area school administrators say was confusing and unfair.
Gallodoro celebration set
ONEONTA - Musicians, like wine or cheese, get better with age, according to local Big Band legend Al Gallodoro.
Forum addresses smoke ban
HAMDEN — A group of about 20 people gathered Monday for a forum to discuss how the expanded Clean Indoor Air Act is going to impact bars, restaurants and other businesses.
Justices back library Net filters
A divided Supreme Court ruled Monday that Congress can force the nation's public libraries to equip computers with anti-pornography filters.
Oneonta finds funds for its Extended Day
ONEONTA — The Oneonta School District has come up with the money to fund another year of its after school program, but it might require a fee, district officials said.
St. Mary's School principal to retire
Sister Mary Christopher Comproski, principal at St. Mary's Roman Catholic School in Oneonta, announced Thursday she has decided to retire.
Mark May tees off for area Hospice
COOPERSTOWN - Mark May, former professional football player who grew up in Oneonta, helped Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Inc. raise about $100,000 last week with a golf tournament and auction in Cooperstown.
Burglary charges in Delaware court
DELHI — A woman charged with burglary appeared in Delaware County Court on Monday. Lasharaha R. Oliver, 20, of Yonkers pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of second-degree attempted burglary in satisfaction of all charges pending against her. She was originally charged with first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary, second-degree assault and fourth-degree grand larceny.
Monday, June 23, 2003
'Bigger than Cabbage Patch'
ONEONTA — The latest installment of the Harry Potter series flew off the bookshelves as it went on sale this weekend, but it wasn't magic that made it happen. Fans waited three years for the new book, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," to be released. The 870-page novel went on sale at 12:01 a.m. Saturday. It's the fifth and longest book so far in the series by J.K. Rowling about a boy wizard attending the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Grad prayer issue cools
Eleven years after the U.S. Supreme Court strengthened its ban on worship in public schools by prohibiting prayers as part of graduation, the issue appears dormant.
Boy Scouts honored for work on bridge
When the Masonville Boy Scouts helped with a local school project last fall, leaders didn't know the troop was building a bridge to national recognition.
88 get diplomas at Delaware Academy
DELHI — Rain kept Delaware Academy's 183rd commencement inside on Saturday, but it didn't stifle the graduates' senses of humor or their enthusiasm for walking the platform.
Otsego CCE chief leaving
COOPERSTOWN - Donna Brooks, the executive director of Cornell Cooperative Extension in Otsego County, is leaving her job.
Delhi Tech chef earns national honor
DELHI—The culinary arts teacher at the State University College of Technology at Delhi will be honored as the American Culinary Federation's Educator of the Year at the ACF National Conference in Washington, D.C., on July 26.
Old-fashioned atmosphere strong at Stewart's
DELHI — Stewart's Department Store in Delhi is an icon of days gone by — when self-service didn't exist and clerks waited on ladies seated at the counter.
Close counts in this league
PORTLANDVILLE — When they gather around the horseshoe pit this week, one toss could determine the league championship in the West Oneonta Horseshoe League. The 10-team league is a purely social one, members said as they competed in their eighth week of play at Ron Emmett's home in Portlandville. The sport was played during the ancient Greek and Roman eras, according to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association website.
Nader looks for upgrades at Damaschke
ONEONTA — Oneonta Tigers President Sam Nader reiterated this week that tough financial times with no relief in sight could cause him to sell the ballclub.
Tourism chief calls for funds
COOPERSTOWN - Deborah Taylor, Otsego County tourism director, says she would like to increase her annual budget by at least $75,000.
Former Delaware chairman dies
Flags at Delaware County office buildings will fly at half-staff for the next week in honor of Howard Nichols, who served as chairman of the Delaware County Board of Supervisors from 1985 through 1993.
Local Corning plant aims for growth
ONEONTA - Continued growth of Corning's Life Sciences business — and its Oneonta plant — depends on that division's ability to change along with the market, Corning's president said during a visit to the River Street plant Friday.
Otsego hike OK'd
ALBANY — State lawmakers have passed legislation that will allow Otsego County to raise its sales tax, pushing the total tax shoppers will pay to 8.25 percent. The county hike — from 3 percent to 4 percent — comes a month after state lawmakers raised statewide sales tax to 4.25 percent to help offset a multi-billion-dollar deficit. Meanwhile, legislation that would relieve the Oneonta City School District from complying with the Wicks Law passed the state Senate on Thursday.
No movement on Otsego redistrict
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's Intergovernmental Affairs Committee was unable to pass a resolution on redistricting at Thursday's meeting.
Area senior sharing language prowess
LAURENS — Walking down the hallway at Laurens Central School this week, teacher Naomi Graham passed a group of kindergartners reciting their numbers — in French.
Familiar foes to square off in District 10 race
COOPERSTOWN - Voters in Edmeston, Exeter, Plainfield and Burlington will recognize their candidates for county board this year: Republican Carl Higgins and Democrat Sheila Serbay.
D. Pearlman's lawsuit tossed
COOPERSTOWN - David Pearlman, principal of special programs and projects at Cooperstown Central School, has lost his federal civil rights lawsuit, which was lodged against the school district and the school's superintendent, Mary Jo McPhail.
'Hidden jewel' topic of book
COOPERSTOWN - Is Arnold Lake, Hartwick's hidden jewel, the best spot on earth? Perhaps, and now this spring-fed, half-mile-long lake has a book to say so: "Arnold Lake (Best Spot on Earth)."
State Legislature to OK casino deal
ALBANY — A compact authorizing the St. Regis Mohawks to operate a casino on their northern New York reservation was headed for approval in the state Legislature late Thursday night.
Habitat project lures builders
Cooperstown resident Emery Herman returned to his childhood home last week to help build one for another family. Herman, Morris resident Bill Triolo and Oneonta resident Jim Pasternak spent a week in LaGrange, Ga., and joined more than 1,000 volunteers to build 22 homes as part of Habitat for Humanity International's annual Jimmy Carter Work Project. The three retirees, also volunteers with Habitat's Otsego County chapter, spent a week in LaGrange, where they built houses in the midst of rain, mud and sticky weather.
Student chefs mixing meals for varied menu
DELHI — Five culinary arts students from Delhi Tech are whipping up their cooking skills to get ready for a national competition in July.
Motivation spurred rise, according to valedictorian
Ashley Thomas, top of the Bainbridge-Guilford Central School Class of 2003, said that two years ago, classmates picked up on her success and predicted her rise to the head of the class.
Countryside gets OK for changes
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors approved several improvements and purchases for the Countryside Care Center at its meeting Wednesday night.
Clinton pushes for quick farm aid
With the start of the sign-up for the Federal Crop Disaster Program last week, Sen. Hillary Clinton asked the government to speed delivery of the necessary software to ensure prompt payments to eligible farmers.
Construction starts on Holiday Inn Express
A Holiday Express Inn on the east side of state Route 28 in Hartwick is under construction. Ground was broken Friday, and the 75-unit motel will open next year, according to proprietor Erfan Khan of Richfield.
School board honors 12 kids in Oneonta
ONEONTA — A dozen Oneonta School District elementary school students were recognized by the school board Wednesday for their inclusion in a creative writing and art publication.
Man in fair condition after bridge fall
A 43-year-old man was in fair condition at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown on Wednesday after falling about 15 feet off the remains of the old Main Street Bridge in the village.
State OKs jails
ALBANY — The days are numbered for Chenango County's century-old jail. The state's Commission of Correction gave the county the go-ahead Tuesday to build a new 129-bed public safety building on Upper Ravene Road in Norwich. "It's been a long time coming. I'm very pleased," said Commission Chairman Alan Croce, who jokingly called the county's existing facility on Main Street "the worst-placed jail in the state."
Area loses funding for Americorps
ONEONTA — The AmeriCorps program in Oneonta has fallen victim to massive volunteer funding cuts announced earlier this week by national AmeriCorps officials.
Class outside benefits river
COOPERSTOWN - The Susquehanna River is a little cleaner today, thanks to the efforts of students from Cooperstown and Milford central schools.
High school success was result of study
SIDNEY — Hard work and parental guidance are among the reasons Sidney senior Joshua Masland said he was named this year's class valedictorian.
Ex-clerk remembered for hard work
Michael W. Lisa, a retired, longtime Oneonta city clerk, died Monday at 82. Former Oneonta Mayor James F. Lettis worked closely with Lisa and said he remembered him as a dependable worker and honorable person.
Lottery protest backed locally
DELHI — Quick Draw lottery machines in Delaware County are turned off again this week to protest the anti-smoking law, but it's causing financial hardship, said John Dacey of Delhi.
Eight charges stem from assault
ONEONTA —A man was arrested Sunday following a domestic dispute in which he allegedly threatened the victim with a knife and tried to smear Ben-Gay in her eyes, state police at Oneonta reported.
Schools starting safety tip line
ONEONTA —The Oneonta City School District and Cooperstown Central School are among those implementing a toll-free confidential tip line for students and residents that will be in full swing for the start of the fall semester.
Man arraigned in Otsego court
COOPERSTOWN - An Oneonta man pleaded innocent at his arraignment Friday in Otsego County Court to a charge of first-degree sodomy.
State ups penalty for stealing timber
ALBANY — After several years of failure, state legislators passed legislation Tuesday that stiffens the penalties for timber theft for the first time in nearly a century.
Tuesday, June 17, 2003
Weather doesn't stop campers
Summer is still a few days away, but camping is already in full swing at some area state-run and privately owned campgrounds. And campers — whether they're roughing it in tents or staying in RVs — seem to be taking the cool, rainy weather in stride, said Betty Taylor, owner of Beaver Spring Lake Campground in Davenport. "Campers like nice weather, but you can always tell a real camper because they'll go out in any weather," Taylor said. She and husband Bob have owned the campground for the past four years. Beaver Spring opened for the season April 15.
Regular teenager sits atop her class at Unatego Central
Unatego Central School senior Jessica Hendricks says she's a typical teenager. Like many of her peers, she likes hanging out with friends, she's an athlete and she's involved with a number of clubs.
Jefferson class builds lessons with school model
JEFFERSON — A nearly 200-year-old schoolhouse is rising again — in a smaller form — thanks to the 46 hands of Jefferson Central School's fourth-graders.
NYC fugitive captured in Walton
WALTON — A man accused of stealing about $45,000 from eight New York City and Nassau County banks was apprehended in Walton on Friday, authorities said Monday.
Primary brewing for Otsego rep
Another Republican primary may be in the offing as a retired policeman from Pittsfield has decided to challenge Rep. James Powers, R-Butternuts, for the District 2 seat on the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Work breeds success with ease
ONEONTA — Emily Maskin's recipe for academic success is simple. "Do what the teacher asks and do it well," the Oneonta High School valedictorian said last week, when asked how she has remained a top student and whether good grades have always come easily. "To an extent, things have come more easily, but I feel I've also worked hard, and I haven't found every subject a piece of cake," she said.
Stories focus on Sixth Ward
ONEONTA —When Mary Foti was a girl, she would tap dance in shows neighborhood children staged in her family's backyard, she said, charging a nickel for admission.
Old cemeteries, Roxbury get history nods
DELHI — Two historic area cemeteries and the hamlet of Roxbury are included on a list of 33 properties nominated to the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Razing of old feed mill to begins July 1
ONEONTA — Demolition of the former West-Nesbitt feed mill is slated to begin July 1, a Foothills Performing Arts Center official said Friday.
New dad is beaming
Ask most people their usual Father's Day celebration, and recitals of barbecues, picnics and wrapped neckties get dragged out of dusty mental crevices. But for Eric Johnson of Oneonta, this Sunday promises more. Johnson's first child, Hannah Marie, was born May 27 in Cooperstown. Her arrival makes him a late qualifier for his first Father's Day as a dad. He said this Sunday's celebration, for him, would be especially memorable as his wife and he are now more than a couple.
Car show set as fund-raiser
Want to see a vintage automobile? This Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m., a car show for Natalie Green will be held at the parking lot of the New York Susquehanna and Western Railway Corp. in Cooperstown.
Reporters Notebook: Some show they are a best friend
There were recently two dog abuse cases in Delaware County. The first case involved a 3-week-old puppy named Orphan Annie left under a porch in a box, and the second involved a 14-year-old dog named Sarsaparilla who was left for weeks without food and water.
Edmeston Tea Circle serves more than tea
EDMESTON - On the first Wednesday of every month, members of the Edmeston Tea Circle get together to visit and often work on events to help their community.
Anti-DWI campaign launched
State and local officials tackling drinking and driving announced a program Friday designed to keep drivers off the road, according to a release.
Bill seeks to close college texts to public
A proposed state bill that would deny public access to the materials taught by college professors has its supporters and critics among local academics. Sponsored by Assemblyman Ronald Canestrari, D-Cohoes, the legislation would exempt public college teaching materials from the state's Freedom of Information Law.
Downsville mini-societies ready kids for future
DOWNSVILLE — In Spudsville, the citizens spend Toasties. In D'Ville the money is known as Clown Cash. Wazums carry Grass in their wallets, and in Pinksville the people pay with Pinklettes.
Farming to be feted in fifth annual festival
The distinctive wooden Meredith Dairy Fest cow signs have appeared throughout the area to announce the fifth annual dairy festival will be this weekend.
Seward: Bill on mental health need work
ALBANY — Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno said Thursday his GOP-controlled house won't vote on legislation that changes the way insurers treat mental illness, despite the fact that 33 of the Senate's 38 Republicans have signed on as sponsors.
Otsego OKs sales tax request
COOPERSTOWN - In a brief special meeting Thursday night, the Otsego County Board of Representatives passed a resolution asking the state Legislature to allow the sales tax rate in the county to climb to 8.25 percent.
Family brings deli, crafts to Cooperstown
Cooperstown businessman Pete Bussman's new deli opened last week, serving breakfast and lunch at its Railroad Avenue location. Steps away, his daughter Stephanie will be selling American crafts from her gallery, set to open today.
Three charged with felonies
AFTON — Three Binghamton men were arrested this week on robbery and assault charges connected with an incident in Afton, state police at Sidney said Thursday.
Thursday, June 12, 2003
State unions call for contracts
ALBANY — For more than two months, most state employees have been working without contracts. Now, Gov. George Pataki's administration is telling them there not only isn't enough money to give raises, but some could face pay cuts, officials said. The news is driving a wedge between the administration and the more than 150,000 state workers hoping for more pay. "My troopers die, they get injured. This is a dangerous job and getting more dangerous," said Dan DeFedericis, president of the New York State Troopers' Police Benevolent Association.
Otsego reps are at odds on districts
One day after Otsego County voters rejected the county board's redistricting plan, Rep. Ronald Feldstein, D-Otego, said he wants to put another plan on the November ballot.
Parade a tradition in Sidney
SIDNEY — A tradition will continue Saturday at 1 p.m. when the annual Sidney Hometown Parade gets under way.
Franklin seniors' trip cut short after arrests
A dozen Franklin Central School students were arrested on drinking and drug charges Sunday, the first day of their senior class trip to an Adirondack resort, state police at Chestertown said.
Delaware County asks for state OK on tax hike
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors took the next step to prepare for a possible increase in county sales tax at a special meeting Wednesday morning.
Milford Library soon to be updated
MILFORD — The Milford Free Library is in for a makeover. The town's book source, which sits scrunched between two sets of the Milford Fire Department's double garage bay doors, will be renovated starting later this month.
Town board approves replacements
WEST ONEONTA — The Oneonta Town Board appointed a new town constable and a new member to the planning board at its meeting Wednesday night.
Small chemical spill cleaned up at SUCO
ONEONTA — No one was seriously injured Wednesday when four gallons of a formaldehyde solution spilled on the floor of a lab at SUCO, Oneonta fire and college officials said.
Otsego voters reject redistricting plan
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County residents overwhelmingly rejected a plan Tuesday that would have redistricted the county Board of Representatives to conform to the 2000 census. Unofficial totals released Tuesday night by the county Board of Elections showed 695 voters supporting the plan, and 2,613 rejecting it. Approximately 10 percent of the county's eligible voters cast ballots. In every town in the county and every ward in the city of Oneonta, voters said no to the 13-member plan approved by the county board two months ago. In that vote, the nine Republicans on the county board supported the plan and the five Democrats did not.
Airport owner to rev up business, activities
MIDDLEFIELD — Like a biplane towing a banner, a renovation of the Cooperstown Westville Airport is giving a lift to a handful of businesses and community events.
Spectacular Bid, Derby Preakness winner, dies in Unadilla
UNADILLA - Spectacular Bid, the 1979 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner whose drive to win the Triple Crown was derailed by a safety pin on the day of the Belmont Stakes, died Monday of a heart attack at age 27.
Relief available for N.Y. ice storm
Federal and state disaster relief funds will be available to certain organizations in Otsego County that suffered losses in the ice storm April 3 to 5.
Cancer Relay running locally
Organizers hope to raise $130,000 for the American Cancer Society at this weekend's Relay for Life in Cooperstown.
Stamford gives new proposal
STAMFORD — Stamford school district officials, still reeling from the recent budget vote tie, have cut deeper into the proposed spending plan to shrink the tax levy another 3 percent.
Sherburne Band Pageant
Area schools participating in the 54th annual Sherburne Pageant of Bands last weekend placed in the following categories:
Milk slowly reaches schools
Several schools in Delaware and Chenango counties are among a growing number across the state to offer milk vending machines as part of their beverage fare. Democratic U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer last week issued a list of more than 160 schools that participate in a program he promoted to offer milk vending machines that sell New York-produced milk. Among those listed as participating in the "Vendi-Milk" program are: South Kortright and Stamford in Delaware County, and Unadilla Valley, Norwich, Sherburne-Earlville and Oxford Academy and Central School in Chenango County.
Redistrict vote today
Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. today in Otsego County for registered voters to decide on a redistricting proposal.
Filmmaker gets into material
ONEONTA —As part of his latest project, videographer Jim Belleau decided to learn to perform what he was filming - sacred movements designed by Armenian spiritualist and author G.I. Gurdjieff.
Demand high for Hillary's memoir
The release of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's memoir drew more than 1,000 people to a New York City store for a book signing, and an Oneonta bookstore reported selling out of copies Monday.
Delaware judge gives drug seller prison time
DELHI — A man arrested in a drug raid on the campus of the State University College of Technology at Delhi was sentenced in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Where to vote in Otsego County
Otsego County polling places for today's redistricting vote (polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.) are:
Monday, June 9, 2003
Grand Gorge gardeners wait for harvest moon
GRAND GORGE — Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, radishes and lettuce are just a few of the ingredients that will spill out of salad bowls after the harvest at the Grand Gorge Senior Citizens Housing Complex. Jo Turner, 71, and Ethel Gustin, 77, spent Friday afternoon planting vegetables and flowers in the beds that line the walls of the building. Vashti Snyder, Delaware County Cornell Cooperative Extension agent, worked with them as they planned the layout of their garden.
County plan finally up for vote
COOPERSTOWN - On Tuesday, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Otsego County residents will have a chance to vote on a plan to redistrict their county board to conform to the 2000 census.
Congregation turns out after blazze razes church
At their first service after the First Congregational Church of Coventryville burned to the ground, parishioners packed the Coventry Town Hall to standing room only Sunday morning.
Laurens wins band pageant despite glitch
Despite rainy weather and computer errors, 37 schools managed to strut their stuff at the 54th annual Sherburne Pageant of Bands Saturday, organizers said.
Precautions urged for West Nile
ONEONTA - Although there have been no reports of West Nile virus in the area this year, some health officials have started warning the public to "Fite the Bite."
Annual Flag Day Parade is Saturday
Stamford's annual Flag Day Parade will once again march along Main Street on Saturday to celebrate the anniversary of the official adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag in 1777.
Stamford summer program set for July
Camp HERE will soon begin its 27th season of providing Stamford area children with four weeks of summertime fun, according to Marilyn Ballard, camp director.
Linhart named valedictorian
STAMFORD — Stamford Central School District officials recently announced that Emily Linhart is the valedictorian of the Class of 2003 and Tristan Smith and Lydia Vigna are the salutatorians.
Teachers take concerns to public
Sidney teachers took to the streets Friday in what could be the first in a series of informational picketing, said Claudia Jenkins president of the Sidney Teachers Association. The action, involving 50 to 60 teachers walking with signs on Pearl Street, followed a negotiating session Thursday, at which Jenkins said there was little progress in reaching a new contract for teachers. The contract expired almost a year ago. But Sidney Superintendent Dominic Nuciforo said the school board is making every effort to reach an agreement with the union.
Some pushing for stronger P.E. programs
ONEONTA — Rain forced Arlene Turner's Thursday morning gym class inside, where 15 eighth-grade girls team up to play an old-fashioned game of kickball.
Party backing lost, Gibbons will run
COOPERSTOWN - Embattled Otsego County District Attorney William "Jack" Gibbons is going to run in the Sept. 9 Republican primary to try to keep his job.
Walton chamber to present 'Gift'
WALTON — The Walton Chamber of Commerce is offering "A Gift to the Community" Saturday night when it plays hosts to an event at the Walton Theatre, said Mike Ripa, Chamber board member.
Seward seeks reform for workers' comp
ONEONTA — A bill in the state Legislature would make workers' compensation more fair for workers and business owners, according to state Sen. James Seward.
Oneonta woman makes it all way to NBA finals
ONEONTA — Local New Jersey Nets fans planning to watch Game 3 of the NBA finals Sunday may catch a glimpse of a hometown face cheering on Jason Kidd and company.
Delhi students display `pride in farming'
DELHI — A dozen or so farm boys who drove their tractors to school Friday morning were not welcomed with open arms — but they got wide support from the community and their fellow students.
Anti-gambling stay lifted by appeals court
ALBANY — A state appeals court Friday lifted a temporary ban against Gov. George Pataki, leaving nothing to stop him from formally approving Indian-owned casinos in the Catskills.
Rainy, cold spring dampens spirits
The cold, overcast days of May and June find many people and businesses in this area looking for a little sunshine. "The rain has killed us," said Craig Dawson, assistant professional at Afton Golf Club. "But it is keeping the course in good shape." He said he expects the weather to improve throughout the summer. Frank Ward, the Walton weather observer for the National Weather Service in Binghamton, said the amount of rainfall has been about average for May — at 4.19 inches. There have been no heavy rains for the month, he said, but "it has been continuous."
LaDukes get a deal
COOPERSTOWN - In a plea bargain, Former Milford Mayor Michael LaDuke and his wife, former village Clerk Debra, pleaded guilty Thursday before Otsego County Judge Brian Burns to one misdemeanor charge of tampering with public records.
SUCO expects hundreds for alumni weekend festivities
ONEONTA — Hundreds of alumni, their families, and others are expected to visit the State University College at Oneonta for Reunion Weekend 2003 today through Sunday, organizers said.
Delhi set to honor two alumni for contributions
DELHI — Two Delhi residents will be honored during the State University College of Technology at Delhi's Reunion 2003 — Making the Memories Last — today and Saturday.
Some area non-profits pay in lieu of taxes
ONEONTA — Commenting on a bill in the state Senate that may require not-for-profit organizations to pay taxes, several local organizations said they already give to the city.
Camp construction likely by fall
ONEONTA —Businessman Martin Patton said he hopes to start construction on a baseball camp on his Cathedral Farms property in the town of Oneonta by this fall.
Wood to run for clerk
COOPERSTOWN - Democrat Robert Wood, 48, of Oneonta announced Thursday that he is seeking to become the next Otsego County clerk.
Oneonta NAACP to honor Marshall award recipients
ONEONTA — At its 10th annual dinner Saturday, the Oneonta branch of the NAACP will honor lawyers Dennis C. McCabe and Ralph E. Powe with its Thurgood Marshall Unity Award.
Delaware parties honor members
DELHI — The Delaware County Republican and Democratic committees have each honored party members as their persons of the year.
Thursday, June 5, 2003
Local Seabee returns home from Iraq war
WEST ONEONTA — Flying above the first tee at Woodhaven Park Golf Course is a reminder the course owner's son is serving his country. The American Legion donated the U.S. Navy flag and another, embossed with the Marines insignia, to the family of Barry Marcewicz. Marcewicz's son, Malcolm, recently returned from combat duty in Iraq, where the 21-year-old Navy Seabee said he built bridges over the Tigress and Euphrates rivers and watched the backs of Marines on the frontlines.
Head Start under review
ONEONTA —Proposed changes have some in the local Head Start community worried, social service officials said Wednesday.
Students to present research at hospital
ONEONTA — Does gum-chewing help concentration? Is salad sold in a bag all it's cracked up to be? What's the dirt on bacteria-laden dollar bills?
Diocese extends help for the abused
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany is stepping up its outreach campaign, encouraging victims of clergy sexual abuse to step forward, the diocese announced last week.
Otsego board approves more staff for The Meadows
COOPERSTOWN - The Otsego County Board of Representatives unanimously agreed at Wednesday's meeting to expand the staff of the county's nursing home, The Meadows.
Abused dog on the mend in Delhi
Sarsaparilla limped slowly out the door of the Humane Society of Central Delaware County on Tuesday. She made her way onto the grass, where she sat quietly in the sun.
Stamford to choose next step on budget
The Stamford Central School Board of Education, administration and lawyers will meet tonight to decide how to deal with the deadlock on the proposed school budget, Superintendent Joseph Beck said.
School board Oks money for Oneonta
ONEONTA — The Oneonta School Board on Wednesday authorized the district to borrow $4.8 million to cover operations through the next few months.
Boehlert backs limitation of milk protein concentrates
In a letter released Tuesday, Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, declared his support for limiting milk protein concentrates through tariffs, as is done with other imported dairy products.
Fourteen charged over midday Oneonta keg party
ONEONTA —Fourteen area youths were charged with alcohol-related offenses after troopers busted a keg party Wednesday afternoon, state police at Oneonta said.
Wednesday, June 4, 2003
No area school budgets defeated
While none of the area's proposed school district budgets went down in defeat Tuesday night, Stamford Central School District's vote ended up deadlocked with 192 "yes" and 192 "no" ballots. Thirty-two area districts saw their spending plans pass, including the few that carried with them proposed tax hikes in the double digits. Even Charlotte Valley's budget, which was defeated last year and included a proposed 21.72 percent tax hike in 2003-04, passed — 336 to 332.
Muehl gets GOP nod for DA post
COOPERSTOWN - John Muehl is the Otsego County Republican Committee's choice to be district attorney.
Smoking ban fuels rally in Albany
ALBANY — The battle over clean air and smokers' rights raged in the state capital Tuesday with bar owners protesting the state's upcoming smoking ban, and advocates for smoke-free workplaces struggling to keep the new law intact.
Fulbright goes to Hartwick professor
ONEONTA — Hartwick College Professor Lee Anne Wilson's expertise in American Indian art is taking her across the world.
Oneonta passes school budget
ONEONTA — Oneonta City School District residents overwhelmingly approved the proposed 2003-04 budget Tuesday and voted to keep three incumbents on the school board. Voters approved the $24,612,586 budget, 750 to 220.
Pit Run start will be earlier
ONEONTA — The Oneonta Common Council changed the start time of the 10th Annual Ricky J. Parisian Pit Run at its meeting Tuesday night.
Local experts back food pyramid shift
ONEONTA —The White House wants federal nutrition guidelines to recommend people eat more foods with omega-3 fats while avoiding those with artery-clogging fats.
G-MU Central reaches to BOCES for principal
The Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School District has hired a new principal. Carl Mummenthey, a planning and instructional specialist at Otsego Northern Catskill Board of Cooperative Educational Services, will start July 1.
Local kids show off artwork
ONEONTA —Courtney Kleeschulte, 10, said she worked for months to complete a papier-mache sculpture of a giraffe. "I was trying to make it like a real giraffe, but then I wanted to put some crazy things into it, like glitter in the spots," said Kleeschulte, a fourth-grader at Unadilla Elementary School. Her giraffe, which she said is taller than she is, and artwork from other area students, is on display in the Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts' 30th annual Young People's Art Exhibition. This is Kleeschulte's first exhibit, she said.
Area beer sellers say keg law would deter minors
ONEONTA —If a proposed keg-registration system becomes law, tracking down those who provide alcohol to minors may become easier, some area law enforcement and DWI coordinators said.
School voting at polls today
Area residents will head to the polls today to decide the fate of school budgets, board candidates and other spending propositions.
DA race heats up
COOPERSTOWN - When members of Otsego County's Republican Committee gather at the county courthouse tonight, they may pick a district attorney.
Business Beat: Pair of Oneonta eateries become one
ONEONTA —Elena's Tuscan Market closed its Main Street location at the end of business Sunday. The market is to be incorporated into Elena's Sweet Indulgences, owner Elena Doyle said.
House tour in Bainbridge, Afton to highlight energy efficiency
BAINBRIDGE — Participants in Saturday's 22nd annual housing tour will get building, decorating and energy-saving tips at each of the seven stops planned in the Bainbridge and Afton areas, an organizer said.
Some liquor stores open on Sundays
ONEONTA —On Sunday, Walton resident Cheryl Holdosi bought a bottle of blackberry brandy. It wasn't for a special occasion, she said, but her purchase marked the first time she bought liquor on a Sunday in New York state. Memorial Day weekend, New York became the 26th state to allow Sunday sales at liquor stores, according to the Associated Press. "I think it's a convenience," Holdosi, 44, said. "Especially if you have barbecues or something last minute."
'Restored' school budgets go to voters Tuesday
Voters will go to the polls Tuesday to decide on area school district budgets, most of which include lower tax hikes than a year ago. The average tax levy increase among area districts is about 7 percent, down from 9 percent in 2003. Fully 73 percent of area schools found a way to propose tax levy increases smaller than last year's.
Cobleskill Tech class gets its feet wet
Anglers will have a new place in Central Bridge to try their luck, thanks to students from the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill.
Churches, Pit Run at odds over starting time
ONEONTA — Oneonta road race organizers and local clergy hope to find a path to compromise Tuesday at the Oneonta Common Council's 7 p.m. meeting.
Foti to lead United Way campaign
Oneonta resident Vince Foti has been named honorary chairman of the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties' 2003 campaign, an official said.
