A good night for a First Night
ONEONTA — Fine weather combined with expanded event hours and ever-improving preparations promise New Year's revelers a First Night celebration to remember, organizers said. The city's seventh annual First Night offers events beginning today at 11 a.m. running through midnight. Associated Press weather services are predicting highs near 40 degrees during the day. Tonight's temperature lows are predicted in the low 20s.
Deaths top area news in '03
For the second year in a row, murder and its aftermath leads off this year's Top 10 local stories. The drowning death of two infant twins also was among the top stories that affected newspaper readers this year. Other stories making the list covered a variety of issues: the state' banning smoking in restaurants and bars, Oneonta Southside development, a custodian taking illegal locker-room photos and redistricting plans for Otsego County.
Longtime city judge declares he will retire Thursday
ONEONTA — Longtime City Judge William K. Atchinson Jr. said Tuesday he would retire from the bench Thursday. Atchinson put in more than 30 years in various magistrate positions, including special and acting judge.
Successor picked, to be sworn in
City Prosecutor Lucy Bernier was selected to step into the city's judgeship, as Judge William K. Atchinson announced plans to retire Thursday.
Bainbridge agent charged with arson
A Bainbridge real estate agent faces federal arson charges that are linked to fires and planned fires in Delaware, Otsego and Chenango counties. James Insinga, 57, has been charged by the United States Department of Justice with conspiracy to use fire to commit a felony, use of fire to commit a felony and conspiracy to commit arson.
Yager Museum gets preservation grant
Thanks to a $4,800 humanities preservation grant announced Monday, the artifacts of an Oneonta museum will soon receive better homes. The Yager Museum at Hartwick College, which houses collections of historic paintings and Native American artifacts, was chosen to get the funding through the National Endowment for the Humanities.
First Night activities
ONEONTA — Oneonta's First Night Celebration 2004, "Let Freedom Ring," continues the community's New Year's Eve tradition of a non-alcoholic, entertainment-filled celebration. The evening festivities on Wednesday begin with a 6 p.m. mini-fireworks display in Neahwa Park.
New gas rules spur scrutiny of prices
As a controversial gasoline additive, MTBE, is phased out by the end of the year in New York state, officials are on the lookout for price gouging at the pump.
Otego teen dies of cardiac condition
The family of Scott M. Perry, an Otego teenager who died Sunday night, said they would remember him as loving and outgoing.
Grant applications available
DELHI — Delaware County Department of Economic Development applications for the first round of funding for renovation grants for Main Street businesses will be accepted Friday through Feb. 27, said Glenn Nealis, director.
Monday, December 29, 2003
First Night offerings expanded
A new theme and additional events top Oneonta's First Night celebration, adding a new dimension to the ever-growing event, organizers said. But the multi-part event, themed "Let Freedom Ring," still offers its traditional musicians, magic performers, singers and acts in locations around downtown. James Koury, chairman of the First Night Steering Committee, said the city's New Year's Eve celebration, now in its seventh year, has grown into a daylong event. "We started with a parade down Main Street, and now we have a 5K road race that starts at 11 a.m. and events right through until midnight," he said Sunday.
Bald eagles rebuilding, renesting local spots
As a dedicated bird watcher and nature enthusiast, Sandra Kioski said she has found an all-American pastime — eyeballing Goodyear Lake's bald eagles.
Spitzer's office says redistricting provision is OK
A provision in Otsego County's new redistricting law that allows mayors, town supervisors and other municipal officials to simultaneously serve as county representatives can be legally adopted as part of a reapportionment plan, according to the New York state Attorney General's Office.
Opening date set for new home
COOPERSTOWN - April 1 will be more than just a light-hearted holiday next year for residents and staff of the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home in Cooperstown.
Otsego Chamber names board
The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday the appointment of several new members and officers to its 27-member board of directors for the upcoming year, according to a media release from the organization.
Indian school principal visits SUCO
ONEONTA — A.V. George, principal of the Indo-International School in the village of Dundlod, India, recently visited Oneonta.
Saturday, December 27, 2003
Sales, returns draw crowds
ONEONTA — After taking a day off for Christmas celebrating, many shoppers were back at area stores Friday to return or exchange not-quite-right gifts and take advantage of sales. The parking lot at the Southside Mall in Oneonta had few empty spaces about 2 p.m. as shoppers picked up where they left off before the holiday. At Fashion Bug, store manager Theresa Goshea said the store was busier Friday than the day before Christmas. "All the days of snow before the holiday certainly had an impact," she said.
Life after retiring goes on
When Oneonta Assistant Fire Chief Norman Jacobsen was wrapping up his final day on the job in December, he took some time to talk about his 35-year career.
As demand falls, flu vaccine still here
Area health departments have been in contact with the state about the need for additional flu vaccines, area officials said, and at least one expects to receive more, even as demand subsides.
College gives building name
NORWICH — Morrisville Tech's new academic building at the Norwich Campus will be named after a Norwich dairy farmer and businessman, college officials announced recently.
Village recognizes eight local military service members
DELHI — Eight military service members with local ties donned neatly pressed uniforms and gave up an hour of their holiday leave Friday to be honored in the village of Delhi.
Area farmers predict prices of beef will jump
Local dairy farmers are bracing for a sharp drop in the price of beef, now that mad cow disease apparently has been found in the state of Washington. "The impact on beef prices is going to be devastating," South New Berlin dairy farmer Kenneth Dibbell said Wednesday. "Beef prices have been good recently, best I remember, but that's going to change," he said. American beef prices have been high in recent months because the United States banned the import of Canadian cows and beef after mad cow disease was found in Alberta in May, Dibbell said.
Decorating pays off at 2 residences
ONEONTA — The holidays brightened up for some families Tuesday when a city official showed up on their doorsteps with a prize.
Some make Christmas more than just another work day
ONEONTA — Whether it was banks, post offices or grocery stores, most business and services were closed for Christmas. The holiday is one of the few days during the year that most people can count on being off from work.
Fewer guests at annual Christmas dinner
ONEONTA — For the 16th year, the Friends of Christmas Community Christmas Dinner provided a place for dinner-goers and volunteers to get together for the holiday.
Area farmer to take issues to politicians in New Hampshire
Mark Dunau, who ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2002 as a candidate of the Green Party, is going to spend January in New Hampshire dogging the Democratic presidential candidates. His mission?
Looking back on 2002's holiday
ONEONTA — A year ago, the area had the whitest Christmas on record, with more than 31 inches falling in some towns. That will be a mere memory this year, as only light snow is expected to fall by Christmas Day. The National Weather Service in Binghamton said rain is expected to start Christmas Eve, changing to snow sometime tonight. About 1 to 11/2 inches of rain could fall before a cold front changes precipitation to snow, forecasters said, and less than an inch of the white stuff is expected on Christmas.
Second Democrat wants to take on Boehlert
A second Democrat in the 24th Congressional District, Jeffrey Miller, associate professor of communications at Utica College, is preparing a run against incumbent Republican Rep. Sherwood Boehlert.
Teen to send Bush message via cranes
Evie Sessions has a late Christmas present for President Bush. In early January, she plans to send him 1,000 cranes, an international symbol of peace.
Bloomville family loses house in fire
A Bloomville family of five lost its home to fire Tuesday morning, two days before Christmas. Bloomville Fire Chief Paul Dibble said Richard Holdridge's home was destroyed in a fire that began at about 11:30 a.m.
Horse survives fall into pond
Otego firefighters rescued a horse that had fallen through ice into a pond in the town of Otego on Monday. Spirit, a registered quarter horse, seemed to be doing well, owner Lisa Lent said Monday night. "It was an eventful day. ... It was a very happy ending," she said. Rescuers kept the horse's head above water and used ropes to pull the horse onto the ice and then to the bank, said Joseph Hurlburt, Otego fire chief. An unknown caller reported a horse was in the pond at about 12:30 p.m., Hurlburt said.
St. Mary's priest retires after 14 years
ONEONTA — After 14 years as pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Rev. Paul Roman has retired because of health reasons, officials said.
Group going to Mississippi to serve, learn
ONEONTA — Three local volunteers are set to travel south and work against racism and poverty while building relationships and cultural understanding.
Law opens Otsego board membership
When the Otsego County Board of Representatives approved a local law last month to institute a system of weighted voting, it also changed the qualifications for people who can serve.
Mine plans turned down
WEST ONEONTA — The town Zoning Board of Appeals turned down an application for a zoning variance that would have allowed a sand and gravel mine on state Route 205 at its meeting Monday night.
Woman guilty of cruelty
A Sidney Town Court jury found a woman guilty Wednesday of cruelty to animals in a case stemming from their improper care and feeding in July, court officials said.
Christmas heralded at annual concert
ONEONTA — Songs of joy spread Sunday from Oneonta's First United Methodist Church as performers rang out the 30th annual Community Christmas Carol. At the 3 p.m. concert, the first of two free performances that day, a full-house audience filled their ears and mouths with the seasonal sounds. Four handbell choirs alternated with a newly formed vocal choir, the Catskill Choral Society Girl Choir and audience-inclusive carols.
Holiday banners brighten hamlet
EDMESTON - Edmeston's Rotary Club has been sharing the Christmas spirit, as anyone can see by driving through the hamlet.
NYC trust gives future museum $30,000 grant
MARGARETVILLE — The proposed Catskill Watershed Museum has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the New York Community Trust, said Gary Gailes, board president.
Hartwick project seeks child composers
The Hartwick College Child Composer Project is seeking melodies composed by children up to age 12 and is expanding the competition to all pupils who live in New York state, officials said.
Bone marrow donors in demand
An anonymous donor gave Brynne Backus a chance for a cure, but finding a donor isn't always easy, Lorinda Backus said.
Saturday, December 20, 2003
Poll: Faith tied to votes
A poll conducted in the United States this fall indicates that regular churchgoers tend to vote Republican by a two-to-one margin, while those who don't go to church tend to vote Democratic by the same margin. The poll was conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press. Among its findings was that 63 percent of voters who regularly attend religious services support President Bush, while 62 percent of those who don't attend church support the Democrats who oppose Bush, according to a report published by the Knight-Ridder News Service.
Churches to show Nativity
WALTON — A camel named Phil, Cocoa the miniature donkey and three or four sheep will be on hand to help bring a Nativity scene to life Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Walton.
Proposed sand, gravel mine irks neighbors
WEST ONEONTA — A proposed sand and gravel mine on state Route 205 that has some neighbors worried awaits a zoning board decision Monday night.
Blaze destroys rental cabin
DAVENPORT — A cabin on Frank Swanson Road near the intersection with White Hill Road went up in flames Friday afternoon.
Mead to cut jobs, plants
MeadWestvaco Corp. announced Thursday that it is planning to eliminate about 1,000 full-time jobs and close facilities next year as part of a new productivity improvement plan to increase the company's earnings and cash flow by $500 million.
Fire fought two days in a row
NEW BERLIN — A fire that began in a two-story house Thursday night on Academy Street in New Berlin rekindled Friday afternoon.
Everywhere you (don't) want to be
When you go to jail these days, the jailer takes Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express. After a judge sets bail, the accused, or someone on his or her behalf, can contact Government Payment Services Inc. For a fee of up to 8 percent, the firm will ensure money is transferred from a credit card to the jail account. Then the prisoner is released, as if he or she had posted cash or a bond. Started in 1997 and headquartered in Indianapolis, GPS is now in 36 New York counties, including Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie, with others considering whether to opt for the service, said Patrick Wren, GPS's regional manager for this area.
Two area mothers pass on the gift of giving
A couple of Cooperstown-area mothers recently helped a Bassett Hospital program while teaching their 3-year-old daughters the meaning of giving.
Agencies see more demand for heating aid
ONEONTA — Hilliard Austin says he's hoping to get a little help from a special home energy program to pay his heating bills this year.
Area flu clinic draws fewer takers than expected
ONEONTA — The turnout at the flu clinic sponsored by A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital on Wednesday was less than expected, officials said. The clinic held at FoxCare Center, scheduled for 3 p.m., began 18 minutes early so those who had started lining up before 2 p.m. would not be kept waiting, officials said. Within half an hour, the first 40 people were being taken care of. "The weather has kept people away," said Fox spokeswoman Maggie Barnes.
Mass. shooting suspect caught in N.Y.
A 38-year-old man wanted in a double shooting in Worcester, Mass., was the focus of a two-day, three-state manhunt that ended with his arrest Wednesday morning in Worcester, N.Y.
Highway chief arraigned on fraud charge
The town of Jefferson's highway superintendent was arrested Wednesday and charged with official misconduct, a misdemeanor, and defrauding the government, a felony.
Winter going strong with early storms
The third storm in less than two weeks passed through the area Wednesday, bringing enough rain and snow to cause numerous traffic accidents but not the anticipated flooding.
Rekindled fire destroys house
ROXBURY —A house that came through a fire relatively unscathed Tuesday night suffered substantial damage Wednesday morning when the fire rekindled, according to Grand Gorge Fire Chief Thomas Murray.
Holiday store helps the animals
Mr. Phillip T. Boggs and Pinkie are home for the holidays. Moguls, a snow-white cat with amber eyes, will get his turn to find an owner among the people who are holiday shopping this weekend.
Firefighter marks end of career
ONEONTA — The next time the Oneonta fire alarm goes off, 55-year-old Norman Jacobsen said, his pulse may go up, but for the first time in 35 years, he doesn't have to respond. Jacobsen's last day as assistant Oneonta fire chief was Tuesday. Capt. Shane Mattice was to be appointed to the post at a meeting of the Oneonta Common Council on Tuesday. "It was always kind of a childhood dream to be a firefighter," Jacobsen said. "I like the excitement."
Officials: Area's vaccine resources shrinking
Because of the demand for flu vaccines, A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta restricted who is eligible for shots at the clinic scheduled for today, officials said.
Oneonta council discusses snow removal
ONEONTA — Snow falling on sidewalks. That's what Oneonta Mayor Kim Muller said she has gotten numerous upset calls about in the past week.
Sabo gets probation, service, fine for fraud
DELHI —The former Fleischmanns police chief appeared in Delaware County Court on Monday for sentencing on a felony count of first-degree offering a false instrument for filing.
Residents protest to board
WALTON —A standing-room-only crowd packed the Walton Village Hall on Monday for a public hearing on proposed changes to the village zoning law.
Otsego, union draft contract
Negotiators for Otsego County and for county workers who belong to the Civil Service Employees Association have hammered out a tentative contract.
Storm forces closings; flooding a possibility
As the area dug out Monday from nearly 10 inches of snowfall, the National Weather Service in Binghamton was predicting another storm could hit the area by Wednesday. The storm could arrive early in the morning with precipitation expected to be heavy at times, the weather service forecast said. As temperatures are expected to rise, rain, not snow, is expected. With river levels already high and with snow packed, flooding could occur. The rain will mix with or change to snow during the afternoon with a few inches of accumulation possible by evening.
Musicians join elite ranks
Three Otsego County students were among 900 gifted musicians who performed recently at the New York State School Music Association's annual all-state festival in Rochester.
During snowstorm, city tows 67 vehicles
ONEONTA — Dozens of people braved slushy sidewalks Monday to stop into the city Public Safety Building, pay their fines and get their cars back.
Gates gives notice early
Bill Gates resigned as Otsego town supervisor after consulting a weather forecast. His second term in office had been scheduled to end Dec. 31.
Otsego offices set to move into Meadows
Several Otsego County departments are likely to move into The Meadows, the county's nursing home in Phoenix Mills, next spring or summer, according to Walter McLaughlin, the county's director of building services.
Cable rates to increase in '04
Television rates for Time Warner Cable will increase starting with the January billing, a company official said.
Unatego panel to explore use of schools
The Unatego Central School District is seeking volunteers for a committee that will consider how its two elementary schools will be used, a school official said.
Local response hopeful
Area political leaders and residents said they hoped the capture of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein would mean an improvement of the situation in the Middle East. Dennis Klimowski of Delhi, a member of the state National Guard, said he hoped Saddam's capture would mark the final phase of the war in Iraq. If the situation there settles down as a result of the action, he said, "maybe some our troops can come home." Norwich resident George Wright, who said he had protested against the war, said, "like everybody, I was surprised by the news.
Second storm strikes
ONEONTA — The second nor'easter in eight days pushed into the region Sunday and up to 18 inches of snow was possible by this morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Local horse enjoys 15 minutes of fame
It's unusual when an area resident gets a last-minute invitation to attend a movie premiere in New York City —but it's even more unusual when the invitation is issued to a horse.
Fire district gets $171K grant
MARGARETVILLE — The Arena Fire District of Margaretville has been awarded $171,000 in federal funds, area lawmakers announced last week.
Man arrested on numerous charges
ONEONTA — An Oneonta man was arrested on charges last week stemming from two separate incidents, Oneonta police said.
More ask for heating aid
ONEONTA — Hilliard Austin says he's hoping to get a little help from a special home energy program this year for paying his heating bills.
Saturday, December 13, 2003
Abolitionist's work unovered by team
ONEONTA — Working with several students interested in their African-American heritage, an associate dean at Hartwick College has uncovered documentary evidence of the abolitionist activities of an Oneonta businessman of the 1800s. This fall, Harry Bradshaw Matthews took four student research assistants to the New York State Historical Association research library in Cooperstown to look for documentation of the role of Oneonta businessman Eliakim R. Ford in the abolitionist movement.
Purchase, plans advance for athletic school
NEW BERLIN - A closing on the sale of the former Unadilla Valley High School in New Berlin is tentatively set for Jan. 10, Donna Taylor, the school district's clerk, said Friday.
Federal aid will help pay for bills
Local human services organizations will receive $45,000 in federal funds to distribute to individuals and families having trouble paying housing, food and utilities bills, lawmakers in Washington announced Tuesday.
Regents: Aid should depend only on need
The state Board of Regents proposed an increase in state aid to education for the next fiscal year on Thursday. It also proposed a new way to calculate aid, but area superintendents and lawmakers said it's too early to tell the impact on local districts. The proposal calls for an increase in state aid of $800 million next year and $5.98 billion over the next seven years.
'Tico time' a time for learning
WEST BURLINGTON - Seventy days of hiking, kayaking and surfing in Central America this fall have changed Ryan Bouton's plans for the near future, and maybe forever.
Veterinarian teaches by saving dog
DELHI — Examining the little blue merle sheltie with a heart murmur was like deja vu for Dr. James Zimmer, associate professor of veterinary technology at the State University College of Technology at Delhi.
Study on Route 21 to begin
DELHI —The Delaware County Department of Public works has chosen McFarland Johnson Inc. of Binghamton to study possible improvements to county Route 21, said Wayne Reynolds, Delaware County public works commissioner.
Milford clerk to retire soon
MILFORD - After 23 years on the job, Milford town Clerk Jessie Eichler will retire this year.
Police official leaving
DELHI - Delaware County Undersheriff Doug Vredenburgh said Thursday he is turning in his badge and heading to South Carolina to explore new career opportunities.
Packages requested for troops overseas
DELHI — As the holiday season approaches a renewed effort is under way to send some of the comforts of home to the troops serving overseas.
Interim principals join 2 schools
SIDNEY — Elementary schools at two of the campuses in the Sidney Central School District have interim principals following a recent resignation.
Sen. Clinton visits Delhi
DELHI — Thirteen students from Delaware Academy Middle School won an opportunity to attend a media conference when local, state and federal officials, including U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., gathered at the historic Delhi Village Hall on Wednesday. "I never came to something like this before," Renee Ladle, 13, said. "It's something new and different." Officials met to launch the Delhi CyberCommunity, a wireless broadband Internet project.
Local hospitals reconsider vaccine rules
Increasing demand for flu shots has caused several area hospitals to take a second look at the way they handle their remaining vaccine supplies.
Delaware to study need for new nursing home
DELHI - A study to determine whether the county needs a new nursing home and if so, where it should be, was approved by the Delaware County Board of Supervisors on Wednesday.
Schumer says he will fight for labor
As Canadian Pacific Railway officials look into selling or leasing the Delaware & Hudson, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., said he will fight to uphold workers' labor agreements.
Judge tosses lawsuit
A lawsuit lodged against A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta and three doctors who practiced there in 1999 was dismissed Wednesday by state Supreme Court Justice Patrick Monserrate.
City's Main Street on historic lists
ONEONTA — Members of a local historical society celebrated Main Street's naming to state and national historic registers when a certificate changed hands Tuesday night.
Bresee's owner to sell store
ONEONTA — Ownership of the Bresee's building, site of downtown's former department store, is set to change hands next year, owner Marc Bresee said Tuesday. He said he would sign the final papers in late January with Maurice Ramos, a businessman from Glen Head, who may look into renting the Main Street front of the more-than-100-year-old building to other businesses. Ramos said Tuesday night he has plans for the building but won't be doing anything immediately. "I have to get involved with the community in order to see what would be good," he said.
Some local Democrats like Dean's chances
Democratic presidential contender Howard Dean, who was endorsed by former Vice President Al Gore on Tuesday, appears to be the choice of most local Democratic activists to face President Bush in the 2004 election.
Bresee's to sell props, signs, memorabilia
ONEONTA — Like memories of the city's long-time department store, its eclectic props — giant pencils, mechanized reindeer and oversized ornaments — are going, going and soon to be gone.
Sex offender in Delaware jail on contempt charge
DELHI — A former Walton man convicted of sexually abusing three children has been accused of failing to pay restitution to the family of one of the victims, a Delhi Village Court official said Tuesday.
Car carrying three flips in Unadilla
UNADILLA — A Unatego Central School teen's car flipped in an accident Tuesday afternoon on state Route 7, sending him and two passengers to The Hospital in Sidney, state police at Sidney said.
`CyberCommunity' set to take off in Delhi
DELHI — The Delhi CyberCommunity will be launched at the Delhi Village Hall at 3 p.m. today, according to Joel Smith, State University College of Technology at Delhi director of college advancement.
Accident closes I-88 in Unadilla
A Tuesday morning accident on Interstate 88 closed the highway in Unadilla for several hours, a Sidney fire official said.
Local man dies in crash
A 21-year-old South New Berlin man died after a collision between a pickup truck and a school bus in the town of Oxford on Tuesday, Chenango County deputies said.
Reality Check launches anti-smoking campaign
Children and teens from Delaware and surrounding counties participated in the launch of Reality Check's statewide youth action project on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Youth Bureau awards banquet honors area volunteers
The Delaware County Youth Bureau held its Youth Awards Banquet at the Old Schoolhouse Inn in Downsville on Oct. 17 to recognize children, teens and adults for community service and volunteerism. Commissioner William Moon played host to the event, which featured guest speaker Josh Shipp of California.
Local flu shots still available
Flu vaccine shots take about two weeks to develop maximum protection, said health-care providers who announced scheduling of some flu vaccine clinics this month. Clinics in the four-county area include: • Otsego County Public Health Nursing Service will hold clinics in Oneonta at 242 Main St., from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday; in Cooperstown at the Annex Building, 34 Chestnut St., from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday; and at the Cooperstown Annex Building from noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 17.
Petition drive nears end
The League of Women Voters' petition drive to force the Otsego County Board of Representatives to let county residents vote on a redistricting plan is nearing its goal of 2,000 signatures, organizers reported Monday.
Aviation history takes off in Sidney
From the Wright brothers' first flight to the moon landings and beyond, the history of aviation will be discussed in Sidney on Sunday — with a local slant.
Teenager appears in closed court
DELHI — A Meridale teenager charged with robbing Smoker's Choice in Delhi in February and setting a fire at Delaware Academy in May 2002 appeared in Delaware County courtroom on Monday.
Seat-belt tickets issued
ONEONTA — Following a two-week campaign, state police at Sidney said more than 1,600 tickets were written in the area for drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts.
Eight suspects arrested in two burglaries
DELHI —Eight people were arrested in connection with two burglaries in Walton on Aug. 22, and both victims in the thefts were related to one of the suspects, said Delhi Police Chief Bob Walsh on Monday.
Commission keeps two houses from being razed
ONEONTA — A lawyer for Bettiol Enterprises said the company is no longer interested in buying and razing two Main Street houses for a parking lot.
Monday, December 8, 2003
Hartwick students use classwork to help community
ONEONTA — Elliot Pruitt, a Hartwick College freshman, plays with puppets in his spare time. "I want to buy some old ones from my high school to get a program going here," he said Sunday night at an exposition of four Hartwick first-year seminar classes' work. Pruitt doesn't use hand dolls for his own amusement, but for community good. He performs for third graders, teaching them about disabilities such as Down syndrome, blindness and cerebral palsy. "When you're really good, the kids ask the puppets questions, not you," he said.
Area's snowfall amounts vary
Even with light snow falling Sunday, local weather observers said Saturday's storm saved the area from its hardest punch.
More DEP tickets tossed
Traffic tickets written by New York City Department of Environmental Police officers again have been thrown out of court by a town justice, this time in Ulster County.
Catskills project moving forward with DEC permits
The state Department of Environmental Conservation announced last week that the Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park Draft Environmental Impact Statement is complete and draft permits required for construction have been issued.
Local MoveOn group meets
ONEONTA — The new documentary "Uncovered: The Whole Truth about the Iraq War" was shown at a "Meet MoveOn" event Sunday night sponsored by Citizens' Alternative Voice at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Oneonta.
Saturday, December 6, 2003
City resident arrested on drug charges
ONEONTA — A 24-year-old Oneonta city resident was arrested on a drug possession charge Friday after his car was stopped at about 6 p.m. and searched in The Daily Star parking lot on West Street, Oneonta police said. Heroine, cocaine and ecstasy, valued at several thousand dollars, allegedly belonging to driver Cameron Walters were seized, police said. Walters was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, said Oneonta Police Lt. Joseph Redmond. The charge is a felony, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in jail, he said.
Veterans remember Pearl Harbor
"We'd get bits and flashes during the day about the terrible tragedy," said 81-year-old Rev. Kenneth Baldwin, recalling how he first heard the news about the Japanese attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on Dec. 7, 1941. The event that brought the United States into World War II occurred 62 years ago Sunday.
Snow fears cause worry
ONEONTA — The lines were long at the checkout aisles in Hannaford supermarket on Oneonta's Southside on Friday as area residents got ready for the first expected snowstorm of the winter.
Walton Grange Hall to get needed repairs
WALTON —The historic Walton Grange Hall will receive a facelift after standing at the intersection of Bridge Street and Stockton Avenue for 118 years.
Oneonta man gets 17-year sentence in sex case
An Oneonta man was sentenced Friday by Otsego County Judge Brian Burns to 17 years in prison for committing first-degree sodomy last April with a 14-year-old girl.
Medical care of toddler focus of malpractice lawsuit
COOPERSTOWN - More than three years after he was acquitted of assaulting an 11-month-old boy, Andrew F. Sabedra of Otego was again in the witness chair Friday, testifying about events that transpired on and just after Jan. 27, 1999.
Teenager charged in smoke scare
OTEGO — A Unadilla teenager was charged with arson Thursday after a smoke bomb caused an evacuation at Unatego Junior-Senior High School. No injuries were reported in the incident, state police at Sidney said. David W. Fullington, 17, was charged with fourth-degree arson, a felony, troopers said. He was arraigned in Otego Town Court before Justice Thomas J. Carney and released to the custody of his parents. Fullington was accused of lighting a smoke bomb in the second-floor boys' bathroom, causing burn marks to the wall and a toilet, troopers said.
Season gets started with Santa
ONEONTA — Santa Claus, two of his reindeer and a big Christmas tree set the stage for Thursday night's kick-off to the Yuletide season in Oneonta.
Veterans getting new van, advocate
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's veterans soon will have a new advocate in Cooperstown and a new van to ride in when they go to the Veterans' Administration hospital in Albany.
No tenant yet for Ames building
ONEONTA — The company that owns the defunct Ames building in Oneonta's West End has decided to lease the property itself.
Man pleads guilty to falsifying certificates
The owner of ABM Fire Equipment in Milford pleaded guilty this week to federal charges that he falsely certified that high-pressure gas cylinders had been properly tested.
20 Hartwick students to hit campaign trail
ONEONTA — Who said today's younger generations aren't politically informed? Francine Philiphose, Cynthia Oldfield and Emily Frankel are among a group of 20 Hartwick College students who will spend next month helping Democratic presidential hopefuls try to win the all-important New Hampshire primary on Jan. 27.
Homeless shelter to open soon
ONEONTA — Nearly three years after the first public proposal, the doors of an emergency homeless shelter are set to swing open Monday. The shelter, with room for 16 occupants, offices and training centers, caused controversy among city and town residents since Opportunities For Otsego proposed it to the Common Council in January 2000.
Tavern owners say losses from ban are substantial
Some area bar and restaurant owners say they have watched their profits go up in smoke since patrons haven't been allowed to smoke in their establishments.
Otsego reps OK budget with tax decrease
COOPERSTOWN - By an 11-to-2 vote Wednesday, the Otsego County Board of Representatives approved an $80,476,978 budget for 2004.
Oneonta school board reviews athletic rules
ONEONTA — The Oneonta School Board on Wednesday went over guidelines student-athletes must follow to qualify for entry into a Division I or II college.
Holiday train rolls in tonight
ONEONTA — Some local holiday festivities will start tonight. A holiday train that travels North America to raise awareness of hunger is scheduled to arrive in Oneonta at about 5:30 p.m., when organizers will collect food donations.
Schumer criticizes USDA over low milk prices
Sen. Charles Schumer accused the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Wednesday of shortchanging New York's dairy farmers by more than $25 million dollars since 2000 by mismanaging a dairy price-support program.
Gun locks available in Delaware
DELHI —Police agencies throughout Delaware County are participating in "Project Childsafe," according to Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills. Mills said the program, which provides free gun locks to firearm owners, was developed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and is funded by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Wednesday, December 3, 2003
Dairy deal in the works
A dairy bill that calls for regional milk pricing, similar to the expired Northeast Dairy Compact, is being drafted and is expected to be introduced into each branch of Congress during the next legislative session, officials said recently. The National Dairy Equity Act would set up regional pricing boards in the Northeast, South and Midwest, said Brynn Barnett, spokeswoman for Rep. John McHugh, R-Watertown, who is working on the legislation in the House of Representatives with Rep. Thomas Reynolds, R-Williamsville.
Mayor rebuffs OCAY's request for armory space
ONEONTA — City teens need a space of their own. That's what four members of the Oneonta Community Alliance for Youth told the Common Council on Tuesday night.
City council adopts budget
ONEONTA — The Common Council adopted the 2004 city budget that includes a 2.9 percent tax levy increase at its meeting Tuesday night.
NYSHA receives teaching grant
The New York State Historical Association in Cooperstown has been awarded a two-year $137,530 Learning Opportunities grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Walton village planners propose changes to zoning laws
WALTON — Proposed changes to the Walton village zoning law would limit the number of dogs people can own, the types of signs businesses can display and the length of grass.
Sentencing in Cutting murder set
DELHI — One of the seven defendants in the Timothy Cutting murder case has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in Delaware County Court and will be sentenced in February.
Tuesday, December 2, 2003
Boehlert foes consider runs
Democrat Brian Goddell, a 41-year-old local union president from Lansing, said Monday he hopes to run next year against incumbent Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, 67, of New Hartford. Republican Boehlert, chairman of the House Science Committee, will run again in 2004, seeking a 12th term in office, his spokeswoman, Melissa Carlson, said Monday. Still mulling another run for the 24th congressional seat is Dr. David Walrath of Auburn. Walrath, a Republican, came close to beating Boehlert in the GOP primary last year.
Professor rides glacier to success
Breaking the ice has earned Jay Fleisher, Ph.D., a professor at the State University College at Oneonta, national recognition.
Students use art to study AIDS
ONEONTA — Oneonta High School sophomore Tara Czarniak said she didn't realize the magnitude of AIDS until she read a sobering statistic on the worldwide, deadly disease.
Bassett VP receives award
COOPERSTOWN — Connie A. Jastremski, RN, vice president of Nursing and Patient Care Services at Bassett Healthcare, has received a leadership award from the New York Organization of Nurse Executives at the group's annual meeting in West Point, Bassett officials said.
Why doctors should be well-versed in literature
On Sept. 26, 2003, some 40 people converged on The Otesaga Hotel to begin a two-day symposium to share ideas and practice techniques in the use of creative writing and the study of literature in medical education.
O-State women win title
ONEONTA — Oneonta State steamrolled the University of Chicago with momentum Sunday, winning the city's first national college championship since 1977 with a 2-1 women's soccer victory at Red Dragon Field. After tying the score with 29 seconds left in regulation, NCAA Division III Championship Tournament host Oneonta State won the college's first national title when senior midfielder Sanada Mujanovic crossed a ball inside the far post 2 minutes and 54 seconds into overtime.
The heartache of Alzheimer's
ONEONTA — Now that time has dulled some of her grief, Yvonne Goodhill tries to remember her husband, Ralph, as he was before Alzheimer's disease stole his mind and body.
AIDS Day event today
ONEONTA — In commemoration of the 16th World AIDS Day, the Catskill Rural AIDS Services plans a vigil and speeches at the Unitarian Universalist Church this evening.
Critics blast waivers for smoking
ALBANY —A state Health Department proposal to issue smoking-ban waivers would be like rolling back the anti-smoking law altogether, clean-air advocates charged last week.
'Wick students to have discussion on globalization
ONEONTA — Hartwick College sociology students will discuss the impact of globalization at the forum "The Many Faces of Globalization"from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday in the Agora, Dewar Hall, on campus.
