Kraft to add jobs in Walton
The Kraft plant in Walton will add jobs as part of the company's sustainable growth plan released Tuesday. "It will be absorbing some of the volume of the Canton plant," Kraft company spokeswoman Donna Sitkiewicz said Thursday. The plan calls to eliminate 6,000 jobs over the next three years. These jobs represent about 6 percent of Kraft's work force.
Families forced out by fires
Fires in Otsego and Delaware counties on Thursday left several families homeless, officials said. No residents or firefighters were injured.
Postmaster leaves job, not friends
HAMDEN — Hamden Postmaster Ellie Klukkert was counting down the final hours until her retirement Thursday afternoon as a steady stream of patrons came into the tiny post office to bid her a fond farewell.
Jury acquits man
DELHI — After deliberating for two hours Wednesday, a Delaware County jury acquitted a Hancock man charged with second-degree assault.
Harrington dead at 56
Stanley Harrington, 56, of Oneonta died Thursday of complications from pneumonia, family members said.
No contract for Delaware deputies
DELHI — Contract negotiations between the Delaware County Board of Supervisors and the Delaware County Sheriff's Police Benevolent Association remained at a stalemate after a public hearing Wednesday.
Probe into blast begins
HARPERSFIELD — With flames ignited by a pipeline explosion extinguished, workers from Texas Eastern Products Pipeline Co., the line owner, started digging Wednesday to remove a valve assembly where a leak occurred. The pipeline, which carried liquid propane, exploded Sunday night, destroying a house on Quaker Hill Road. No major injuries were reported but neighbors within a half-mile radius were evacuated Sunday. Many returned to their homes Wednesday.
Tolls on I-88?
ALBANY — New York drivers could soon be paying tolls on hundreds of miles of interstates.
Trail in Sidney growing
Anyone told to take a hike in Sidney will soon have a few extra miles to stroll on.
Butternut Grange sues over weather vane
A lawsuit resulting from the sale last fall of an antique weather vane in Gilbertsville began last week with the filing of legal papers in Otsego County Court, officials said.
Delaware board OKs selling power from methane gas
DELHI —The Delaware County Board of Supervisors decided Wednesday to take the first step in a plan to get electricity from methane gas generated at the county landfill.
Tax resolutions passed
DELHI —The Delaware County Board of Supervisors passed two resolutions Wednesday seeking state legislative permission to institute a bed tax and an increase in the mortgage tax.
Zoning laws to be discussed
The village of Sidney will be taking the first steps to consider changes in its zoning ordinances with a meeting of local and county boards in room 202 of the Sidney Civic Center at 6:30 p.m. today, officials said.
Sidney won't drop parking restrictions
There will be no change in recently enacted parking restrictions in Sidney, following a decision during Monday's village board of trustees meeting.
Snow, ice prompt warnings
Messy winter weather late Tuesday night prompted warnings from area offices and the National Weather Service. The Chenango County Emergency Management Office and the Chenango County Sheriff's Office issued a joint travel advisory extending from Tuesday until this afternoon. The travel advisory recommended no unnecessary travel and warned that roads would be snow-covered and slippery, and there would be poor visibility. Additionally, the city of Oneonta declared a snow emergency for Tuesday afternoon and night.
Delaware mulls occupancy tax
DELHI —The Delaware County Board of Supervisors is expected to pass two resolutions today to begin the process of adding a bed tax and raising the mortgage tax.
Great Labels to move to Cooperstown
Great Labels is moving to Cooperstown proper. Along with the move to 46 Pioneer St., the store will soon be open throughout the year, according to manager Ann Stewart.
People forced out by fire may get to go home
A fire from a leaking propane line that exploded in Harpersfield on Sunday night continued to burn through Tuesday, emergency service personnel said.
Fire's endurance delays inquiry
HARPERSFIELD — Until flames roaring from a broken pipeline die out, firefighters can only watch. Fire officials said Monday afternoon they hoped a propane line that exploded Sunday night in Harpersfield and destroyed a house would burn out by this morning. Until then, they said, an investigation can't begin. A leak in the 8-inch line near a valve at the corner of Quaker Hill Road and Parker Schoolhouse Road ignited at 7:16 p.m., possibly because of a pilot light in a nearby home, said Michael LeRose, regional manager for pipeline owner Texas Eastern Products Propane Co.
Hospitals' financial woes are 'never-ending'
ONEONTA — The bleak image of New York hospitals portrayed in a recent financial report is sadly typical for regional hospitals, administrators said Monday.
Insurance magazine honors area company
A homegrown insurance company has garnered honors from an industry magazine. Otsego Mutual Fire Insurance Co. in Burlington Flats was recognized by A.M. Best for maintaining an A+ rating for more than 50 years.
Temperatures driving up cost of heating oil
Cold weather and competition for crude oil supplies were driving up propane and heating oil prices before a propane pipeline exploded in Davenport on Sunday.
Delaware's LaFever remembered fondly
DELHI — The flags are flying at half-staff at Delaware County office buildings this week in memory of former Bovina Supervisor Charles LaFever, said Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman James Eisel.
Heavy snow predicted for tonight
ONEONTA — A foot of snow is possible over central New York this afternoon into Wednesday, the National Weather Service said Monday.
N.B.academy waiting on paperwork
NEW BERLIN - Two months after residents of the Unadilla Central School District approved the sale of their former high school building to the Gulf Beach Sunrise Corp., no closing has been held.
Gas line explodes in Delaware
DAVENPORT — A propane line explosion shook the North Harpersfield area at about 7:20 p.m. Sunday, sending a fireball into the sky and setting a home ablaze. Davenport fire officials said no one was hurt in the explosion at the corner of Quaker Hill Road and Parker Schoolhouse Road. Brian Goodspeed of West Oneonta was near Davenport on a AAA call for Scavo's Body Shop when he saw the blast in his rearview mirror. "A gas line went off like a bomb," he said. "I kept on driving until I was a fair distance away."
State, counties give shoppers a break
ONEONTA — Shoppers in Otsego, Delaware, Chenango and Schoharie counties can enjoy sales tax free shopping today through Sunday.
Environmental agency pleads for more funds
The Otsego County Soil and Water District faces new tasks on a lean budget. "I don't want to cry a river, but things are tight," Jason Mulford, district field manager, said Friday.
Main Street project helping small businesses
DELHI —A Delhi business expanded to Margaretville and an Andes business got a new roof with the help of funding through the Delaware County Main Street Revitalization Pilot Program, said Glenn Nealis, Delaware County director of economic development.
Bassett will get $616,000 for complex
COOPERSTOWN — Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, announced recently that Bassett Healthcare will get $616,000 in federal funding for its new critical-care complex.
Police seek ID of bank vandal
ONEONTA — Police released security camera photos Sunday of a man wanted in connection with vandalism at an Oneonta bank in December.
Teacher overcomes many trials
DAVENPORT - Passing students in the hallway, Suzanne Harvey honks the electric horn on her motorized wheelchair that has given her the nickname of "road runner" at Charlotte Valley Central School. During the eight years she has been a remedial math and reading teacher in Grades 1-3 there, she has gotten to know a lot of students and colleagues, she said. During this school year, students and faculty have gotten to know a lot more about the 57-year-old woman who returned to teaching this year after both legs were amputated in November 2002 because of blood clots.
Delhi group names 2004 'Woman of Year'
DELHI —Charlotte Bishop Hill was named the 2004 Woman of the Year by the Delhi Business and Professional Women on Tuesday.
Foothills to get $250,000 federal grant
The arts center planned for Oneonta got a $250,000 boost Thursday with the passage of the 2004 Omnibus Appropriations Bill by the U.S. Senate.
Area prison to close
ALBANY — Camp Pharsalia, a 258-bed minimum-security facility in Chenango County, will be shut down as part of the state prison system's response to a declining inmate population, officials said Friday.
Med school scholarships available
The Medical Societies of Chenango and Otsego counties are seeking suitable candidates to receive grant money from the Lee C. Van Wagner Scholarship Fund.
Man guilty of stone thefts
DELHI — A millionaire and convicted capstone thief left the Delaware County Courthouse by ambulance Thursday after complaining of chest pains while on the way to jail. After deliberating 52 minutes, a jury of eight men and four women found Stanton M. Cagney, 63, of New York City guilty of felony charges of third-degree criminal possession of stolen property and second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument. Cagney had been charged in connection with a series of stone thefts in Delaware and Ulster counties in 2001 and 2002.
Town residents question water, sewer plans
ONEONTA — At an informational meeting Thursday to discuss extending city water and sewer lines into the town of Oneonta's East End, several property owners questioned how the changes would help them.
Ex-DA back as assistant
COOPERSTOWN - Otsego County's newest assistant district attorney is former district attorney Paul Elkan, 60, of state Route 80 in Springfield.
Lawmakers say Australia trade bad for farmers
Some New York state legislators are adding their voices to an effort to keep the Bush administration from inking a free-trade agreement that would make it easier for lower-priced Australian dairy products to enter the U.S. market.
Episcopal group sparks reaction
Local reaction to a new conservative Episcopal splinter group reflected some disappointment Thursday.
College teams up with businesses, schools
Morrisville State College's Norwich Campus is partnering with employers and school districts again this semester to offer college classes at various locations around Chenango County.
Court sentences men to jail time
ONEONTA — Two area men were sentenced to jail time in city court Thursday morning after pleading down felony charges to misdemeanors earlier this month.
St. Mary's to celebrate Catholic Schools Week
St. Mary's School announced the celebration of Catholic Schools Week, to be held Monday through Friday. It is an annual, national celebration of the role that Catholic elementary and secondary schools across the country play in providing a values-added education for America's young people.
Area officials: Budget needs reform
Gov. George Pataki's proposed 2004-05 budget doesn't raise taxes, but it's still cause for concern, some local officials said Wednesday. "We were kind of surprised we were $200 million short of a $1 billion budget," said Robert Robinson, president and chief executive officer of the Otsego County Chamber. Pataki released his budget Tuesday and gave the annual budget address Wednesday morning. The Legislature will review the proposal. A state budget is due April 1.
Musical show to aid fitness center
Broadway will come to Morris Central School on Saturday when staff and faculty take to the stage to benefit the school's community fitness center.
Expert: Limit soda for children
Eliminating soda from schools could improve children's nutrition, a pediatrician and research scientist at Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown said Jan. 14.
Investigator accused again
MIDDLEBURGH — Another alleged victim has come forward against the suspended private investigator already facing multiple charges of sexual abuse, state police at Cobleskill said Wednesday.
Commission OKs condo plans
ONEONTA — The city Planning Commission voted Wednesday to recommend a zoning change that would allow a proposed 27-unit condominium development on Spruce Street Extension.
Testimony goes on in stone-theft trial in Delaware court
DELHI — The trial of the millionaire accused of engineering the theft of century-old capstones from area sites will continue today after Delaware County Judge Carl Becker decides whether a taped phone call can be entered into evidence.
Oneonta looks at school setups
ONEONTA — The possibility of reconfiguring the Oneonta City School District to allow for an expanded middle school was discussed Wednesday during the regular Board of Education meeting.
Otsego board distributes funds
COOPERSTOWN - At Wednesday night's meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, members voted unanimously to award $24,265 in "bed tax" money to 17 non-profit organizations in the county.
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
Area schools to 'wait and see' on aid increase
Area superintendents were studying school aid proposals in Gov. George Pataki's 2004-05 Executive Budget on Tuesday afternoon to see what it would mean for their districts. While the numbers released appeared to show most districts would get aid either slightly below or above last year's figures, superintendents said it was too early to be sure how the proposal would affect next year's school budget if approved.
Dean's backers keeping the faith
Local supporters of Howard Dean for president had mixed reactions to Dean's third-place finish Monday in the Iowa caucus — but most of those reached by The Daily Star on Tuesday said they are sticking with their candidate.
Otsego signers challenge rejections
A decision made last week to reject a petition that would have triggered a referendum on Otsego County's reapportionment plan was challenged Tuesday by more than 30 county residents.
Heiress leaves $1.5B to Salvation Army
ONEONTA — With Tuesday's announcement of a $1.5 billion donation, area Salvation Army representatives said a new era was beginning.
Development proposed for Southside
A proposed retail and office space on Oneonta's Southside will be the subject of a town planning board public hearing Feb. 10.
Classes cater to those interested in small business
ONEONTA — With the help of classes at the Utica School of Commerce, prospective small-business owners can figure out ownership responsibilities, a school official said Tuesday.
Pataki budget includes raise in ATV fees
ALBANY —All-terrain vehicle riders would pay millions of dollars for a program to reimburse local governments for a state tax break on timberland, under Gov. George Pataki's budget plan.
City police investigating bar assaults, shop theft
ONEONTA — The city police department is investigating a liquor store burglary and two unrelated assault complaints made by bar patrons Friday against bar workers.
Governor seeks gambling centers
ALBANY — Gv. George Pataki wants to gamble on school funding, potentially at the expense of the Catskills, but some lawmakers say he's dealing a losing hand.
Otsego panel lacks meets
The Otsego County Planning Board, which reviews pending construction projects, has not had an official monthly meeting since June. The nine-member advisory panel has not had a quorum in some months and has not had pressing business to conduct in others, according to Diane Carlton, the county's planning director. "There were a couple of months when the only business on the agenda were very small items from the city of Oneonta," Carlton said. These items, such as changing a lot's property line to allow a homeowner's project, did not need to be reviewed at the county level, she said.
Shelter: Older animals need homes, too
The Delaware Valley Humane Society in Sidney is hoping a new program to promote animal adoptions by senior citizens will help find a home for two older dogs at the shelter.
Grant round is open
MARGARETVILLE — Grant applications are now available from the Catskill Watershed Corporation for non-profit organizations and businesses planning economic development projects, said Diane Galusha, public relations spokeswoman.
Part of Delaware civil lawsuit revived
DELHI — One of the counts in a civil lawsuit seeking $2 million in damages from the Delaware County Sheriff's Department was reinstated by the state Supreme Court Appellate Division Third Judicial Department on Thursday.
King's legacy alive at 'Wick
ONEONTA — The words and legacy of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. rang through the Agora in Hartwick College's Dewar Union on Saturday. Sylvia Cooke Martin, the Library of Congress' former chief of staff training and development, addressed about 35 Hartwick students and professors in recognition of King and Hartwick's recent commitment to diversity.
O-State coach gets top honors
ONEONTA — Tracey Ranieri earned the National Soccer Coaches Association of America's Division III Coach of the Year award Friday night, roughly two months after leading Oneonta State to a national championship in women's soccer.
Arts grants issued
The Roxbury Arts Group has announced the recipients of the Delaware County 2004 Community Arts Funding Awards.
Local schools busy preparing for spelling bees
ONEONTA - Twenty-nine local schools and an organization of home-schoolers are buzzing with activity as they prepare for this year's Daily Star Spelling Bee.
Photo exhibit gives perspective on AIDS
ONEONTA — "Pandemic: Imaging AIDS," a photography display, will be on view Tuesday through March 7 at The Yager Museum at Hartwick College.
Ex-strip club boss on rep's payroll
ALBANY - A retired state trooper and former strip club owner has emerged as the highest-paid campaign aide to U.S. Rep. John Sweeney, viewed by state Republican leaders as a rising star in the national GOP party.
Deadline Feb. 1 for trooper test
The deadline for applications to take the New York state Troopers Exam is Feb. 1, Troop "C" Recruiter Nelson Torres said.
Saturday, January 17, 2004
Rescue crews need members
In December, when The Hospital in Sidney wanted a patient with an acute heart attack taken from the emergency department for further care, there was nobody with proper training on any of the local emergency squads available for the transport, officials said. But The Hospital's chief executive officer, Dr. George Innes, was able to make the ride because among his credentials is the Advanced Life Support training that was required.
Cold causes closings, crashes
Temperatures at or below zero and blowing snow contributed to the closure of Interstate 88 for several hours Friday afternoon and shut several area schools for the day.
Gas prices on the rise
ONEONTA — The region is not immune to soaring gas prices, gasoline station workers said Wednesday.
Marrow recipient released from hospital
A bone marrow transplant given to a Trout Creek baby Dec. 11 was successful —but tiny Brynne Backus still has a long way to go to get well.
Property tax exemptions available for farmers
Farmers and agricultural landowners need to file for the state Agricultural Value Assessment Program, which provides a partial exemption from real property tax.
Smoking ban showing signs of success
ALBANY — Since the state smoking ban went into effect, tests of tavern workers have shown the ban is having a positive effect on workers' health and bar cash registers, officials said. Those tests show a more-than-80-percent drop in secondhand smoke toxins in the employees' systems, more smokers are living in smoke-free homes and less than 1 percent of bars have expressed an interest in getting waivers to the law, they said. At the same time, employment at restaurants and bars has gone up over comparable periods a year earlier.
'Wick teams to go Div. 3
ONEONTA — Hartwick College is dropping the ball. The Hawks will surrender their Division-I status in men's soccer and women's water polo to become Division III programs, first-year Hartwick President Richard Miller announced Thursday.
Trombone quartet welcomes outside players
Whether there will be 76 trombones in the big parade of musicians planned for the stage of the Bainbridge Town Hall on Saturday is yet to be seen.
Democrats mull response to petition decision
Otsego County politics were murky Thursday as Democrats scrambled to respond to the rejection of a petition Tuesday by county Board Clerk Laura Child.
Adding police called unlikely
ONEONTA — The city police chief requested more officers at an Oneonta Board of Public Safety meeting Wednesday, but the board's chairman said later that additions were unlikely.
Events planned for King holiday
ONEONTA — In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Hartwick College is sponsoring events Saturday through Monday titled "MLK Remembrance 2004: Campus Dialogue and Reflection."
Hancock man convicted of assault
DELHI — A Delaware County jury found a Hancock man guilty of second-degree assault after deliberating for 35 minutes Wednesday.
Cave House projects under way
Students from the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill are studying and documenting the biological and ecological aspects of the Howes Cave quarry property. Those findings are expected to add another dimension to the national museum being created there.
Cold causes power losses, heating woes
With temperatures still bitterly cold, about 1,000 people in Otsego County found themselves without power Wednesday morning and afternoon. The outage affected New York State Electric & Gas Corp. customers from 6:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Wednesday, according to William Sears, division operations manager for NYSEG in Oneonta. Affected areas included Hartwick, Laurens, Mount Vision and parts of Milford, Sears said. "It froze up a section of the system," said Jack Burch, a Hartwick resident, of his heating system on Wednesday afternoon. "I'm trying to get a heater to thaw out."
Bill would add farm aid
ALBANY —Farmers looking to expand their operations should be offered many of the same government incentives other growing businesses get, a local lawmaker said as he proposed legislation to make it so.
Assembly GOP presents housing programs, ideas
ONEONTA — More than 50 people attended an affordable-housing forum presented by state Assembly Republicans at the State University College at Oneonta on Wednesday.
Town court dismisses hate case
Charges have been dropped in the first hate-crime case ever to come before Oneonta Town Court, officials said Wednesday.
Town bids code enforcer farewell
WEST ONEONTA — In recognition of town of Oneonta Code Enforcement Officer Stan Rusin's 12 years of service, the town board presented him with a plaque at its meeting Wednesday night.
Officials worried about capacity at Pepacton Reservoir
Automatic water releases from the Pepacton Reservoir to protect about 400 residents who live downstream along the East Branch of the Delaware River will be the subject of a meeting between local, state and New York City officials today, said Colchester Supervisor Lucille Freyer.
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
Brrrr! Bitter temps return to area
ONEONTA — Plunging temperatures and wind chills didn't keep workers inside Tuesday. "I'm going south," said Mike Dunn, a Department of Public Works employee working at Hodges Pond. "This is too cold for me. I'm freezing. It's very cold." Dunn and other DPW employees were preparing the pond for ice skaters. Temperatures were supposed to drop to zero Tuesday night. Wind speeds between 15 and 25 mph, however, could have created a wind chill factor of minus 15 to minus 25. And that's just the beginning.
Otsego rejects petition
A petition that would have forced the Otsego County Board of Representatives to submit its redistricting plan to voters was rejected Tuesday afternoon.
Local woman marks century
DELHI —When Gladys Lull Butts' son, Norman, called from California on Tuesday to wish his mother a happy birthday, she couldn't come to the phone because she was busy getting her hair done.
Schoharie dairy group receives $15K
Schoharie County Cooperative Dairies will receive $15,000 in federal funds, Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., announced Tuesday.
Schoharie sex-abuse investigation 'ongoing'
The future is unclear for a Schoharie County Department of Social Services fraud investigator, the department commissioner and county district attorney said Tuesday.
Tribes discuss dealings in N.Y.
ALBANY — American Indian leaders from across New York state met in a rare closed-door summit Friday near Utica to strategize how to deal with the state on a host of issues, including a looming cigarette sales tax dispute, officials said.
Hearing today on planned resort
Delaware County officials are planning to turn out in force to support the Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park project, proposed by Crossroads Ventures, LLC, at a hearing today, said Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman James Eisel.
No action taken at meeting on new Sidney parking rules
SIDNEY —No action was taken at Monday's Sidney village board of trustees meeting on a request from residents to change parking regulations that took effect last year in the village.
Selective Service fills local board
A national effort is under way to staff local Selective Service boards in the event a military draft is needed. Otsego, Delaware and Chenango counties are now served by Selective Service Board 43, said Mary Neely, who works in a Selective Service System regional office near Chicago that oversees the East Coast. The five-member board is full, with at least three appointments being made in the last year. Volunteers on these boards would help draft young men, should Congress and the president authorize the effort.
City to consider certificate for unmarried partners
ONEONTA — City officials said Monday they will consider providing a way for non-traditional couples to officially record their partnerships to help them get the same benefits as married couples.
'Interesting story' gets author's book published
A Cooperstown woman became a published author this week with the premiere of her first book. Peg Leon spent the past three years working on "Mother Country," a novel about families and changes in Taylor, Nev.
'Compassionate' sentences dealt
DELHI - The defense attorney for a Margaretville man who pleaded guilty to drug possession thanked the district attorney for a `compassionate' resolution to his case in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Local doctor doubts Life Line
ONEONTA — Screening tests provided by a Cleveland company may not provide patients with all the information they need, a local physician said Monday.
Mad cow doesn't affect Red Cross
Donors at today's blood drive in Cooperstown shouldn't have any difficulties from the United States' first case of mad cow disease, according to the American Red Cross.
Man charged with abuse
MIDDLEBURGH — A fraud investigator for the Schoharie County Department of Social Services has been accused of abusing three boys over a period of two years.
IGA legislators tempted by use of sidewalk signs
ONEONTA — City legislators mulled over expanding Oneonta's sandwich-board sign regulations to allow all downtown businesses to use triangular advertising.
School bus, trucks involved in crashes in Delhi on Monday
Three accidents, one involving a school bus transporting six students, happened at the intersection of Peakes Brook Road on state Route 10 at about 3 p.m. Monday in the town of Delhi, Delaware deputies said.
Monday, January 12, 2004
More frigid weather due by mid-week
ONEONTA — The region may see a reprieve from this weekend's cold blast, but it won't last for long. "We're looking at another four to five days of below-zero temperatures," said Frank Ward, a local observer for the National Weather Service in Walton. "Usually we don't get two arctic blasts in a row," Ward said. Saturday morning the low was minus 22; this narrowly missed setting a record, according to observer David Mattice in Goodyear Lake. The record was set in 1859 with a low of minus 24, Mattice said.
Area officials upbeat about local economy
ONEONTA — The area's economy could rebound this year, in step with national and state trends, people with links to local business say.
$50K brings arts center closer to goal
ONEONTA — The Foothills Performing Arts Center, planning a theater complex for Oneonta, got a holiday gift recently from a local bank.
City seeking public uses for armory
ONEONTA — With winter sports starting up again this week in the Oneonta Armory, Mayor Kim Muller said Thursday she's also encouraging other public uses of the city-owned building.
Nature-writing basis of exhibit
The Yager Museum has organized an exhibit combining nature writing and art to be on display at Hartwick College in Oneonta this month.
CWC again offers education grants
A new round of Watershed Education Grants are available for the 2004-05 school year, said Ward Todd, Catskill Watershed Corp. Education Committee chairman.
Schumer 'comes and listens'
New York's senior senator visited the area Friday, saying he came to get ideas about how he can help the local economy. Sen. Charles Schumer toured businesses in Oneonta, Sidney and Norwich to get a firsthand picture of the labor market. "Today I'm here along the I-88 corridor looking at one thing more than anything else — jobs," the Democrat said while visiting NBT Bancorp in Norwich. "If you don't come and listen, you can't find what is going on."
Farmers to get workshop
A workshop for farmers in the Unadilla River Watershed will be held by the Otsego Soil and Water Conservation District at the Pittsfield Fire Hall at 11 a.m. Tuesday.
Otsego jury convicts man in drug case
A jury in Otsego Count Court found an Oneonta man, Ernest E. Wilson, guilty Friday of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, cocaine.
Cooperstown readies for March elections
Cooperstown residents interested in running for a seat on the board of trustees or for the office of mayor may circulate independent nominating petitions to have their name placed on the ballot.
Delaware undersheriff takes oath of office
DELHI — A new Delaware County undersheriff was sworn in at the county courthouse on Friday — shortly after evidence of a long-lost sheriff was discovered in the attic along with a notice that spitting in the courthouse won't be tolerated.
Teen finds success in lab work
COOPERSTOWN — There aren't many 17-year-old high school students who can claim status as a published scientific researcher. Erin Dauchy, however, will soon be one. "It's overwhelming. I really don't know how to describe it," Dauchy said while at work at the Bassett Research Institute. "I guess a lot of people my age can't really comprehend it," she said. For the past two years, Dauchy, daughter of Robert and Ellen Dauchy, has worked as a research assistant in an oncology laboratory at the institute.
Area Dems journey to Dean's aid
Two local supporters of Howard Dean for president are headed to Iowa to try to help their man win the Jan. 19 Iowa caucuses.
Andes residents begin life after end of village
The signs welcoming people to the village of Andes haven't been taken down yet, but former Mayor Richard Canavan said they will soon be put in safe storage to preserve them for posterity.
Sidney trustees to hear complaints about parking law
SIDNEY —Concerns about recent parking restrictions around the Sidney high school have prompted at least two area residents to ask for a change in a recently enacted law.
Seward says focus will be schools, jobs
ONEONTA — State Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, said Thursday he hoped to change Empire Zone regulations, work on school aid and help create jobs during the coming year.
School renovations enter the final phase
SIDNEY — Work on the last phase of the Sidney Central School building project began in late December, Sidney Central School officials said Thursday.
Bassett doctor: CT scans are safe to use on children
Despite a new study that says CT scans can affect adult intelligence, parents shouldn't worry if their infant needs the test, the chief of radiology at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown said.
Researcher seeks stories from former CCC workers
An area historian researching the Civilian Conservation Corps and its work in the Catskill region is seeking interview subjects, memorabilia, information and photographs about the 1930s-era CCC camps.
Thursday, January 8, 2004
'No Child Left Behind' leaves questions
Two years ago, President Bush signed a law designed to improve student achievement across the country. While area superintendents praised the goals of the No Child Left Behind Act, they also acknowledged its shortcomings. "We have yet to see the kind of federal funding that it will take to bring all levels of students to educational levels it requires," said Samuel Shevat, superintendent of Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School. The Jan. 8, 2002, law provides for such things as expanded testing and toughens standards for teachers, schools and students.
SUNY repairs planned
ALBANY — Within the next few days, state leaders are expected to release a detailed plan on improving State University of New York campuses, including those in Delhi and Oneonta, officials said.
Cooper descendants donate land to trust
A donation of rolling hills and open fields made last week from Cooperstown's founding family may help preserve the scenery around a gateway to the village.
Career expo offers job, internship tips
Job seekers can speak with potential employers at the Chenango-Delaware-Otsego Workforce Investment Board and FoxCare Network's job fair and career exposition Jan. 29.
Higgins re-elected Otsego board chairman, 8-5
COOPERSTOWN - By an 8-to-5 vote Wednesday, Carl Higgins was elected chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, a post he has held for 19 years.
Delaware board looking at ways to control costs
DELHI — Officials are working to find answers to some of the financial problems plaguing the county, said James Eisel, chairman of the county Board of Supervisors.
Hamden man guilty of attempted attack
DELHI — A Delaware County jury found a Hamden man guilty of attempted aggravated assault on an officer after deliberating for about half an hour Wednesday.
House gets minor damage in fire
UNADILLA — A fire that damaged a house in the Sidney fire district Wednesday afternoon started in the chimney and made its way into the house walls, a Sidney fire official said.
Professor, lawmaker praise Mars advances
Like many around this world, Charles Hartley has enjoyed seeing sights from the next, since the space probe Spirit landed on Mars on Saturday. "It's exciting, fun to watch," said Hartley, who teaches physics and astronomy at Hartwick College in Oneonta. Spirit's mission and that of "Opportunity," another probe on its way, is to examine the surface of Mars and try to learn whether the "red planet" ever sustained life. Previous space probes and observations from afar have led many scientists to believe Mars was once warmer, wetter and more conducive to life than it is today.
Induction weekend '04 looking 'OK'
The pending inductions of Dennis Eckersley and Paul Molitor to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on July 25 drew respectful assessments from some Cooperstown merchants Tuesday.
Audit took too long, priest says
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops report on sexual abuse was too long in coming, according to a local priest.
Success jazzy at SUCO
A CD co-produced by a local professor got national recognition throughout 2003 and landed in fourth place on Amazon.com's list of 10 best jazz albums for the year.
Delaware board appoints budget director
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday appointed a budget director, a position that became controversial after being first discussed last year by the board.
City aldermen named to lead committees
ONEONTA — The aldermen leaders of some of the city's committees and commissions were announced at Tuesday night's Oneonta Common Council meeting.
Suspect in '75 murder to get help from DNA expert
The man accused of murdering a former Sidney college student 29 years ago will be receiving help from a DNA expert involved with a couple of prominent national cases, according to his attorney.
Lawmakers talk money to Chamber
ONEONTA — There won't be new taxes in the 2004-05 state budget, lawmakers told members of the Otsego County Chamber on Monday at its annual legislative luncheon. "The leadership in the Assembly fully supports the idea of no new taxes this year," Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson, said. This is the Legislature's goal, though the state is facing a deficit of $4 million to $6 million, he said. "To address this deficit without a tax increase will definitely be a challenge," Magee said.
Students' poems on flight take off
SIDNEY —Two Sidney Middle School students will let their dreams take flight as winners of a contest celebrating 100 years of aviation history.
Hospice ready to purchase house
ONEONTA — A site plan review that would let Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Inc. move into a new home is scheduled for a public hearing at an Oneonta Town Planning Board meeting Jan. 19.
So far, data look good for United Way
Though none of the area United Way campaigns are ready to announce final numbers, directors said their 2003 campaigns appear to be finishing well.
Literacy volunteers sought for Chenango County
Volunteers are needed to tutor adults across Chenango County. Opportunities for Chenango Inc. and Literacy Volunteers of Chenango County are seeking volunteers to participate in an upcoming series of training workshops.
No beef fears in area schools
As schools reopen today after a two-week holiday, meals will not be affected by the country's first case of mad cow disease, school officials said Sunday. "We're not changing our menus," said Charles Stratton, Unadilla Valley Central School superintendent. He did say, however, that a plan to answer concerns will be formed if they are voiced. The results of the diseased cow's tests were announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Dec. 23, when many schools were on vacation.
State rewards Oneonta's assessment efforts
ONEONTA — As a bonus for keeping its property assessments up to date, Oneonta city government got a check last month for nearly $17,000 from the state.
State tickets first smoking ban violators
ALBANY — In the five months since New York's smoking ban went into effect, state health officials have ticketed 15 businesses accused of violating it, according to state officials and records released on a new state website this week.
Star hires three
ONEONTA — The Daily Star has hired a reporter and two copy editors.
Arts group awards grants to educators
ONEONTA — Arts, crafts, stories and science will be combined in Arts in Education programs recently awarded funding at some Delaware and Otsego schools.
After tying record high, temperatures heading down
ONEONTA — Despite the mercury hitting 53 degrees Saturday and tying a 107-year-old record for the highest Jan. 3 temperature, more typical winter weather is forecast throughout the coming week, said Dave Mattice, a National Weather Service observer in Oneonta.
Local farmers carry on
Area dairy farmers say such issues as milk pricing, a major industry bankruptcy and mad cow disease will have differing amounts of impact on their businesses. After several months without a payment from the national dairy program, a decline in milk prices will trigger a return of payments to farmers. The Milk Income Loss Contract is set to pay farmers 82.8 cents per hundredweight for January milk, said William Gibson, executive director of the Otsego County Farm Service Agency.
Snowmobiles may be back to races
RICHFIELD SPRINGS - After an absence of nearly a decade, snowmobile races are slated to return this year to Canadarago Lake, just south of Richfield Springs.
Otsego approves salaries
At Tuesday's meeting of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, members approved a number of contracts for services and approved salaries for managerial employees.
Counties to push Medicaid reform
Medicaid reform will be the focus of multiple media conferences across New York state next week. County government representatives will meet Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and urge Albany to make Medicaid a priority.
Gas prices steady after change
ONEONTA — A recent change in a gasoline additive has not caused prices to increase, an Oneonta survey showed Friday.
Grant lets city schools cut program fee
ONEONTA — The Oneonta City School District will cut its fee for its after-school program, thanks to a state grant, a school official said recently.
Friday, January 2, 2004
First baby of 2004 arrives with a bang
ONEONTA — While fireworks were lighting the new year's sky outside, the birthing center at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta had its own share of excitement when the area's first baby of the new year was born just 25 minutes after midnight Thursday. Savannah Rose Betterley, weighing eight pounds and measuring 211/2 inches, was born at Fox at 12:25 a.m. to Oneonta residents Regina Paradis, 41, and Eugene Betterley, 42.
Higher taxes in Chenango irk residents
Chenango County sent out tax bills a few days ago, and not everyone is pleased with them, according to William Evans, the county's treasurer.
Ephedra ban welcomed by some
ONEONTA — The Food and Drug Administration's planned ban on the sale of ephedra products comes as no surprise, according to a local pharmacist and retailers who sell the drug.
County, Oneonta officials sworn in
ONEONTA — A number of Otsego County and Oneonta city and town elected officials were sworn into office on New Year's Day.
Getman named city prosecutor
ONEONTA — The city's new prosecutor, Michael F. Getman, stepped into the position Thursday.
Weighted-voting petition too close to call
A petition that would force the Otsego County Board of Representatives to submit its redistricting plan to voters may not have enough valid signatures.
First Night revelers celebrate new year
ONEONTA — A crowd, jostling as other people squeezed by, pressed against the third-story railing of the Main Street parking garage walkway Wednesday night.
23 cows killed in barn blaze
Twenty three heifers died in a barn fire in Bloomville that started late Wednesday, the farm's owner said Thursday.
Man charged in meth-lab raid
Otsego County sheriff's deputies arrested Craig Alan Harvey, 47, on Monday in connection with a methamphetamine laboratory in Plainfield, deputies said.
