Dog rejoins family after cave rescue
Mallory, a 5-year-old black Labrador retriever rescued from a cave in the town of Carlisle on Monday, was reunited with her family Tuesday, according to Emily Davis, coordinator of the Albany/Schoharie Cave Rescue Team. Owners were thrilled to see Mallory, who had been missing two weeks, a family member said.
Fugitive arrested in California
ONEONTA — After searching for nearly two weeks, authorities said they arrested Richard J. Bennett on Monday in northern California for fleeing Oneonta drug charges.
Businessman gives Hartwick $5M for new building
ONEONTA — Hartwick College plans to turn parking lot space into an academic building, thanks to a $5 million gift from businessman B. Thomas Golisano, college officials said Tuesday.
Two Dems get in argument at annual dinner
A disagreement over the display of campaign materials at the Delaware County Democratic Dinner led candidate Morris Guller to take his materials and leave, Leonard Sienko Jr., Delaware County Democratic Committee chairman, said Tuesday.
10 teens prepare for futures in medical fields
Six high school graduates from Otsego County spent their senior year participating in the New Visions program at Bassett Healthcare in Cooperstown.
20 Delaware County businesses to receive grants
DELHI — The Delaware County Industrial Development Agency has awarded $96,781 in grants to 20 business projects through the Main Street Revitalization Program, said Glenn Nealis, Delaware County Economic Development director.
Otsego EMS proposal aims to increase efficiency
COOPERSTOWN — Representatives from Otsego County's emergency medical services met Monday and decided to form a committee to discuss improvements to the county's response system. Members of volunteer departments, Cooperstown Medical Transport and representatives from the county's two hospitals laid out several problems and discussed solutions at a Public Safety Committee meeting in Cooperstown.
Man, 25, killed in accident at mine
HANCOCK — A Hancock Central School graduate was killed Friday morning in an accident at Cobleskill Stone Products.
Group to discuss collaborating on biodiesel fuel
French fries for fuel. That's how members of the new Sustainable Future Group are hoping other people will decide to run their cars after an exploratory meeting tonight in Oneonta.
Event organizers predict fun along with fireworks for 4th of July in Oneonta
ONEONTA — Oneonta's 19th annual Fourth of July celebration, sponsored by WDOS/WSRK radio station, will be held in Neahwa Park this year, and the station's general manager and owner, Jan Laytham, said she expects it to be a wonderful event.
Grads step into future
About 1,500 students received their high school diplomas over the weekend in graduation ceremonies at nearly all area school districts. Cooperstown Central School sent 100 seniors off with its 125th graduation ceremonies on Sunday afternoon at the Fenimore Art Museum. "The path through high school is about as beaten as they come," said one student speaker, Creighton Adsit. "Whoever tells you different is telling a lie."
Farmer receiving help to eliminate intrusive weeds
COLUMBUS - Spotted knapweed, an invasive thistle that can take over fields, is the target of an experimental program on Bob Huot's farm in the town of Columbus.
OHS seniors reflect on loss as they graduate
ONEONTA — In the 1980s, young adults were considered part of the "Me Generation." During the 1990s it was the "Generation Xers" or the lost souls.
Sidney awards diplomas to 100
SIDNEY — One hundred Sidney High School seniors received their diplomas Saturday morning during the school's 115th annual commencement in the school's transportation center.
Cooperstown has 125 commencement
COOPERSTOWN — Although student graduation speakers addressed the challenges of the real world, one Cooperstown Central School teacher urged them to hold fast to dreams.
Teen charged in illegal tattoos
ONEONTA — Giving other minors illegal tattoos resulted in charges for an Oneonta teenager last week.
Walton issues diplomas to 108 seniors
WALTON — A large crowd of family and friends gathered Saturday at the O'Neill High School football field to celebrate the 151st commencement ceremony at Walton Central School.
Sun shines on Delhi graduates
DELHI — As the processional ended and the last of the nearly 80 Delaware Academy graduates stood in front of his seat, the sun burst through the cloud cover and lit the caps and shoulders of the students.
Saturday, June 26, 2004
West End lacks businesses
ONEONTA — Although development on Oneonta's Southside and downtown areas remains strong, developers are still having difficulty attracting businesses to the West End — and keeping them there. "I don't think that's fair," Evaline Schultheis said. "We do need a store here in the West End." Schultheis, an 81-year-old woman who lives in Laurens, said she can drive, but West End stores made it easier for her to buy groceries and clothes. "They made a mistake when they let Grand Union go," Schultheis said.
Area student is perfect on two history Regents
A South Kortright Central School student surprised himself and impressed his teacher and officials at the state Board of Regents when he achieved perfect scores on back-to-back history examinations.
College students face possible decrease in aid
ALBANY — The Legislature's failure to adopt a budget has left thousands of college students and potential students in the dark about financial aid.
Charlotte Valley celebrates class of 2004
DAVENPORT — Graduating seniors at Charlotte Valley Central School entered the gymnasium to the traditional song of "Pomp and Circumstance" Friday night.
Volunteers run Andes gift, thrift shops
ANDES — The Andes Society for History and Culture is working both ends of the market, running a gift shop on one end of the village and a thrift shop at the other end.
South Edmeston mobile-home owners win in court
SOUTH EDMESTON - A family that owns a mobile home has won a round in court, but may eventually have to remove the residence from South Edmeston, a hamlet with a zoning restriction against mobile homes.
Students out for summer
ONEONTA — As of noon Thursday, school is out for the summer at the Oneonta City School District's elementary schools. When the final bell of the school year sounded at Center Street Elementary School, a loud cheer erupted and students in kindergarten through sixth grade came through the doors for the start of summer recess.
Expert says terrorism is expanding
ONEONTA — Decades before the 9/11 tragedies and the near-daily attacks in Iraq, members of an Oneonta institute worked to bring terrorism awareness to national and international attention.
Experts discuss thoughts on 9/11 tragedies
Yonah Alexander and Robert S. Morrissey, former State University College at Oneonta faculty, helped found the Institute for Studies in International Terrorism at the college in 1976.
Questions, answers on terrorism
Yonah Alexander is the director and a senior fellow of the International Center for Terrorism Studies in Arlington, Va., and a former State University College at Oneonta professor.
Hampton Inn taking reservations
Although the Hampton Inn in Oneonta just opened Thursday, manager Diana Parker said the hotel has already received many room reservations.
Catskill Poetry Workshop to take one-year break
ONEONTA — The annual Catskill Poetry Workshop, after a 15-year history, will take next year off to raise funds for future workshops, Carol Frost, poet, Hartwick College English professor and founding director, said Tuesday.
Repairs scheduled for bridge in Walton
WALTON — The state Department of Transportation is planning a preventive maintenance project on the Bridge Street bridge in Walton, according to Andrew Stiles, department spokesman.
Norwich schools to cut programs because of costs
The Norwich City School District Board of Education adopted a $26.5 million contingency budget Wednesday after voters turned down a revised budget the day before.
Insurance worker accused of fraud
A former office manager for DSB Insurance in Norwich is facing two felony charges after a fraud investigation.
Two Otsego towns to collect scrap metal for recycling
COOPERSTOWN - Want to get rid of old appliances? Otsego County is providing a convenient way to dispose of these and other metallic waste items, according to Terry Bliss, the county's solid waste coordinator.
Bar owners: Ordinance is flawed
ONEONTA — After hearing complaints from bar owners and representatives, city planning commissioners decided Wednesday night to recommend the Common Council review a proposed bar ordinance. About 25 representatives from city bars attended the Planning Commission's special meeting Wednesday, and many said the ordinance was flawed, ambiguous and would hurt downtown growth.
Lawsuit not affecting shoppers
ONEONTA — Despite a sexual discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart potentially involving about 1.6 million women, store customers and employees said the corporation's image likely won't suffer.
Vendor: Clinton book selling fast
ONEONTA — Oneonta-area residents are no different from the rest of the nation in wanting to find out what former President Bill Clinton has to say in his new book.
19 help to build homes
MIDDLEFIELD CENTER - Volunteers from around the United States have converged on Middlefield to help the Otsego County chapter of Habitat for Humanity build a house on county Route 33.
Worcester to drop French classes in fall
Students at Worcester Central School will notice a change when they return to class in September: French will not be part of the curriculum.
'Fahrenheit 9/11' won't open locally Friday
ONEONTA — Moviegoers wanting to see Michael Moore's documentary "Fahrenheit 9/11" when it opens Friday won't find it in the Oneonta area.
Plea bargain gives Hunt 23-year prison term
DELHI — As the second day of jury selection in Gregory Hunt's murder trial in Delaware County Court was about to begin, a plea bargain was reached. Hunt, 20, of Sheep Pen Road in Unadilla pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in exchange for a prison sentence of 23 years with five years of post-release supervision. He waived his right to appeal and agreed to testify in the three trials pending in the Timothy Cutting murder case.
Cemetery flags found burned
SIDNEY — Sidney police are investigating the burning of more than 50 flags at Prospect Hill Cemetery in the village.
Barn owners get state grants for renovations
Some barns in the area will get money for needed renovations as the result of $2.2 million in grants. About 114 barn projects across the state will get funding from the New York State Barns Restoration and Preservation Program, Gov. George Pataki said Monday.
Five Star Subaru adds drive-through
Once construction at Five Star Subaru of Oneonta is complete, customers will have a new option for leaving their cars for service.
Crews to work at Sidney Superfund site
SIDNEY — Richardson Hill Road, in the town of Sidney, is scheduled to be closed for all but emergency vehicles until mid-July to allow work on the cleanup at an Environmental Protection Agency Superfund site, officials said.
SUV runs into house
A family living on state Route 357 in Franklin had an unwelcome visitor Tuesday night when a sport utility vehicle crashed through their house.
Man accepts plea bargain
DELHI — In Delaware County Court on Monday, a man accepted a plea bargain in a larceny case.
Lumber firms get safety awards
Three companies were presented with safety awards at the 23rd annual meeting of the New York Lumbermen's Insurance Trust Fund (NYLITF) in Syracuse on April 23.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Seven jurors chosen for Hunt murder trial
DELHI — Seven jurors were seated Monday, the first day of jury selection in the murder trial of one of the seven defendants accused of killing Timothy Cutting. Gregory Hunt's trial began in Delaware County Court in Delhi with a pool of 102 prospective jurors. Hunt, 20, of Sheep Pen Road in Unadilla is charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter and first-degree gang assault.
Rape suspect found hiding in barn room
After hiding from law enforcement agencies and spending three months as a fugitive, Allen R. Williams was arrested Sunday night.
Visitors' center opening
ONEONTA — A tourism center on Oneonta's Main Street should light the way to area attractions by offering information and selling local merchandise, managers said.
Capstone thief also took fieldstones
DELHI — The New York City millionaire who engineered the theft of century-old capstones from numerous area sites also pleaded guilty Monday to stealing fieldstones in Delaware County Court.
Police: Man injured outside bar
ONEONTA — A 25-year-old Oneonta man suffered facial injuries after he was assaulted Saturday night outside a downtown bar, city police said Monday.
Boehlert's challenger loses union presidency
Brian Goodell of Lansing, one of two Democrats challenging Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, R-New Hartford, has lost the presidency of Local 2,300 of the United Auto Workers in Ithaca.
Singer from Three Dog Night to perform in Cooperstown
Chuck Negron, former lead singer of the 1970s rock band Three Dog Night, will perform at the first Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care concert at the Cooperstown home of Walter and Karine Rich at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Cars inspire family bonds
ONEONTA — Standing next to his dad and supercharged Plymouth Prowler, Wayne Cook Jr. hit the day's significance at top-dead center. "Some families go to baseball games, some families do this," he said, nodding toward rows of gleaming machines. Cook Jr. had come down from Albany on Father's Day to visit with his dad, Wayne Cook of Oneonta, at a car show arranged by the Reminiscers Car Club of Oneonta.
Uninsured patients are costing local hospitals
Health insurance is a problem even for hospitals with multimillion dollar budgets. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, more patients without insurance are arriving at emergency departments, which are required to treat those patients.
Delaware Dems to honor two
The Delaware County Democratic Committee will honor Russell Schebesta and the late Albert "Albie" Tomao during "Celebration 2004" at the Hidden Inn in South Kortright at 5:30 p.m. June 26, said Leonard Sienko Jr., committee chairman.
Legislators in Albany accomplish very little
ALBANY — In April, Gov. George Pataki signed a law that allows dry cleaners to donate clothes to charity that have been left for more than six months.
Poetry readings scheduled
ONEONTA — The Catskill Poetry Workshop at Hartwick College, celebrating its 15th summer, is having a series of free poetry readings this week by visiting faculty and guest writers for participants and the public.
Area artists cited in Walker competition
ONEONTA — Artists from Delhi, Oneonta and Cooperstown took the top three places in this year's Jeane Pearce Walker Juried Art Exhibition competition, organizers said Thursday.
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Fathers say best gifts are hugs
Forget the ties. This Father's Day, dads want something else to put around their necks, and it doesn't involve any knots. Some dads in the Oneonta area are saying that what they'd like most on the nationally recognized day of paternal honor is to feel their children's arms around them, hugging them tight. The fathers seemed to agree that hugs and quality time spent with their children are the greatest expressions of appreciation for their job as dads that they could receive.
Sidney murder trial starts Monday
DELHI - Timothy Cutting's family is bracing for the murder trial of one of the seven defendants accused of killing him during a gang assault in Sidney on July 11.
Museum gets restored tractor
COOPERSTOWN - During an outdoor reception Friday morning, The Farmers' Museum accepted a like-new 1959 Ford tractor that may help the museum's program evolve in the coming years.
Official: Manor project behind schedule
COOPERSTOWN - Slowly drying concrete in Otsego County's new $30 million nursing home means residents will not move there before late August, said county Rep. Sam Dubben, chairman of the county's Meadows Committee.
After-prom parties offer safe fun for students
After prom, high school students will have the chance to play blackjack and roulette without losing a cent, drain the punch bowl without getting tipsy and still have a great time partying until 5 a.m. All at their adult-sponsored after-prom party.
Book club helps generations share
EDMESTON - Edmeston Central School's Mother-Daughter Book Club gave away books Wednesday to students at Edmeston's Headstart Program. "It's something we do every year," said Pat Bond, a resource room teacher at the school and the club's founder.
Internet access cut off for some, later restored
Thousands of Digital Marketplace Inc.'s Internet subscribers were without service from Tuesday evening until Thursday evening, according to Lori Swift, an owner of the Delhi-based business.
Reggae band to take stage at Autumn Café
ONEONTA — A reggae band will take the stage tonight at the Autumn Cafe to benefit two local men injured in a car accident this month.
Margaretville school receives grant
MARGARETVILLE —Margaretville Central School will receive at least $100,000 a year for the next three years from the Enhancing Education Through Technology grant program, according to Superintendent John Riedl.
Community to meet about Laurens project
Any decision on how to proceed with the Laurens Central School building project will wait until after a community meeting in July or August with the project architect, school superintendent Romona Wenck said.
Board cancels vote on Worcester building plan
The Worcester Central School Board of Education on June 10 canceled its plan to hold a public vote June 24 for an $18.697 million building project.
Fly creek man, 49, sentenced
COOPERSTOWN - In Otsego County Court on Tuesday, Ronald D. Bales, 49, of Fly Creek was sentenced to six months in jail and five years probation for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Dylan, Nelson tickets on sale June 26
COOPERSTOWN - Tickets for the Aug. 6 Bob Dylan-Willie Nelson concert in Cooperstown will go on sale at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 26, according to Polly Renckens, executive director of the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce. Tickets will be sold at the Chamber of Commerce office on Chestnut Street in Cooperstown and online at www.cooperstownchamber.org. Tickets will cost $48, which includes a $3 handling charge, and customers will be limited to 20 tickets apiece.
Ohio church volunteers visit Upstate Home
MILFORD — A group of 51 volunteers, mostly teenagers, from five Ohio Baptist churches made its third trip to Milford's Upstate Home for Children and Adults this week.
Unadilla Valley seniors accused of class prank
State police charged 13 Unadilla Valley Central School seniors, including the 2004 valedictorian, with trespassing Wednesday after an incident troopers described as a senior prank.
School board OKs principal, awards bids
ONEONTA — Staff changes and the awarding of bids were made at the Oneonta City School District Board of Education meeting Wednesday.
Delaware board hears about Countryside finances
DELHI — The Delaware County Board of Supervisors heard an analysis of how Countryside Care Center compares with other county-owned nursing homes Wednesday and suggestions about preventing an operating loss.
Man sought after car fire
DAVENPORT — An Oneonta man who was to face a felony drug charge in Oneonta City Court on Tuesday became the subject of a multi-agency search after a car fire in Davenport. Authorities and area firefighters searched for Richard J. Bennett for about five hours Tuesday in woods and fields near the intersection of Grange Hall and Swart Hollow roads.
Boehlert opponents call mailing inappropriate
A recent mailing from Republican Rep. Sherwood Boehlert's office to likely primary voters in the 24th congressional district has his political opponents up in arms.
Frisbee players to come together at brewery event
Frisbees will fly this weekend in the area's first Ultimate Frisbee tournament in Cooperstown, said officials at Brewery Ommegang organizing the event that is expected to attract hundreds of players.
Mills may have to return money from committees
ALBANY — Cash-strapped U.S. Senate hopeful Howard Mills may have to return thousands of dollars contributed to his campaign by county and state Republican committees.
Medicare options confusing, would-be users say
ONEONTA — A Tuesday seminar on understanding new Medicare options was designed to clear up confusion but left some people wanting more information.
No decision made on Bainbridge park
No decision was made Tuesday morning about the transfer of a Bainbridge park by the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce to the town, officials said.
Oneonta board to consider appointing principal
ONEONTA — At tonight's Oneonta City School District Board of Education meeting, a principal for Valleyview Elementary School will be recommended to fill a vacancy opening at the end of the school year, officials said.
Neighbor surveys damage
DAVENPORT — As searchers combed the hillsides of the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society sanctuary Tuesday afternoon, neighbor Deb Horan-Ross said she had to go see its back lawn.
Sidney murder defendant enters plea
DELHI — One of the seven defendants in the Timothy Cutting murder case pleaded guilty to manslaughter and gang assault in Delaware County Court on Monday in exchange for a 24-year prison sentence. Shane R. Lopez, 18, of Sidney pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and first-degree gang assault, violent felonies. He will receive a 24-year prison sentence on each charge to run concurrently. Lopez waived his right to appeal and agreed to provide testimony at the other trials, said Delaware County District Attorney Richard Northrup.
Councilwoman doesn't file oath
A Davenport councilwoman who lost her seat last week for not filing an oath of office may be appointed to fill her own term, Town Supervisor Todd Rider said.
Farm honored in magazine
A Hobart farm in existence for more than 200 years is featured in a national farming magazine this month.
Aspiring nurse perseveres
ONEONTA — The first class of certified nursing assistants who are becoming registered nurses includes a student who knows all too well about overcoming a difficult situation.
SUCO professor receives book award
John Relethford, a local professor, has been selected to receive the 2004 W.W. Howells Book Award from the Biological Anthropology Section of the American Anthropological Association.
Two Democrats challenge Hooker for seat
Two Democrats are circulating petitions in the 127th Assembly District, hoping to unseat incumbent Republican Assemblyman Daniel Hooker of Saugerties.
Indoor smoking ban costing bars millions, study says
William Wolfinger said he doesn't have a problem with New York's Clean Indoor Air Law, per se. He said it's just that the law is a part of why he is closing his Delhi bar, Blinkey's.
Festival celebrates dairy culture
They got milk. As dusk dropped over Meredith, the last Dairy Fest visitors drained away. In its sixth year, the celebration of all things dairy drew about 30,000 people, organizers said. Held atop Meridale Mountain, the festival featured farm animals, games, hay rides and, of course, dairy products. Bill Field, Meridale fire chief and co-organizer of the event, said there's no exact count on attendance but it seemed a little larger than last year.
'Patients' needed for Delaware anthrax drill
Delaware County's Public Health Department needs 150 volunteers willing to spend about two hours posing as anthrax victims to help the county test the emergency preparedness system.
Bainbridge Chamber may sell park to town
The future ownership of the Bainbridge park that includes the finish line of the annual canoe regatta could be decided Tuesday at a meeting of the town's Chamber of Commerce.
Sidney pushes Heights housing
The village of Sidney received approval last week to sweeten an offer to encourage qualified homebuyers to particiapte in the redevelopment of Sherwood Heights, officials said.
Hybrid cars in demand
Can you imagine getting about 55 miles per gallon in a five-passenger car? People do, and they're lining up to buy the Toyota Prius, Motor Trend Magazine's 2004 car of the year. According to the United States Department of Energy, the Prius, a gasoline-electric hybrid, gets the best mileage of any family sedan sold in America, 60 miles per gallon in the city and 51 miles per gallon on the highway.
Roxbury woman named Postmaster of the Year
MARGARETVILLE — Andrea Cammer said she was dumbfounded when the National League of Postmasters named her New York State Postmaster of the Year on June 4.
Inmates help clear debris from cemetery in Delhi
DELHI — The windstorm that swept through Delhi on July 21 downed countless trees in the historic Woodland Cemetery, crushing gravestones and blocking roads with debris that is still waiting to be cleaned up almost a year later.
CSEA declares impasse in negotiations with city
ONEONTA — The Civil Service Employees Association representing about 60 employees of the city of Oneonta has declared an impasse over contract negotiations, officials said Friday.
Fanny ready for home after abuse case decision
A dog taken from a Worcester house in March will have a new home after the decision of a Worcester justice to adjourn an animal cruelty case filed against a town resident.
Livestock sellers to renew auctions
COLUMBUS - The Welch Livestock Auction complex on state Route 8 in the town of Columbus will open for business at noon Monday. On Sept. 7, the old wooden barns burned to the ground despite the efforts of at least 100 firefighters. Not long after that, owner Howard Mattice and his son and business manager, William "Billy" Mattice, decided to rebuild a home for the business they love: the selling and buying of livestock.
Tour of Franklin houses set for Saturday
FRANKLIN — A beautiful panoramic view of a series of mountain ridges disappearing into the distance is one benefit of the wall of windows in Rod and Sally Hebbard's passive solar home high on a hill in Franklin.
Oneonta teacher accused of sex with ex-student
ONEONTA — An Oneonta Middle School teacher hasn't been teaching his classes for more than a week while police investigate allegations of sexual relations with a former student.
Murder defendant arrested again for injuring inmate
DELHI — One of the defendants in the Timothy Cutting murder case who negotiated a plea bargain is facing a second charge of assaulting an inmate in the Delaware County jail.
Board approves zoning change at Soccer Hall
In a forward pass to the National Soccer Hall of Fame, Oneonta Town Board members approved a zoning change Wednesday that will allow a youth soccer camp.
Search under way for Farmer's Museum president
A nationwide search has started to find a new president for The Farmers' Museum and New York State Historical Association, according to acting president Esther Nelson.
Youth ask for space in armory
ONEONTA — Members of a local youth organization pressed city officials Wednesday for a space of their own. About 13 teens in the Oneonta Community Alliance for Youth attended a city Buildings Committee meeting after school to ask to use part of the armory. Kim Eardley, teen president of OCAY, said her peers want a place to gather after school, do homework and hold activities.
Police: Woman faked a report
ONEONTA — A West Street woman who last month told police she was attacked was charged Tuesday with faking the story, city police said.
Nursing home art travels the state
NEW BERLIN - Artists from nursing homes around the state have their works on display at Chase Memorial Nursing Home in New Berlin.
Teens collect cell phones for charity
Two local high school students are collecting used cell phones to help victims of domestic violence and raise funds to send a Girl Scout from Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School to the Amahami summer camp.
$310K in economic development grants OK'd
MARGARETVILLE — Twenty-one economic development grants totaling $310,136 were approved by the Catskill Watershed Corporation Board of Directors recently.
City offices to stay open Friday
ONEONTA — City offices will be open Friday for regular business, Oneonta Mayor Kim Muller said Wednesday.
Unadilla Valley parents react to gun incident
While investigators probed into allegations Wednesday of a Unadilla Valley fifth-grader taking a gun to school Tuesday, some parents said they were pleased with the response by authorities.
Hurleyville woman to seek Bonacic's seat
DELHI — A Hurleyville woman announced her candidacy for the 42nd District state Senate seat from the steps of the Delaware County Courthouse in Delhi on Wednesday.
Baseball Hall of Fame game, parade set
COOPERSTOWN - A big parade down Main Street and the 58th annual Hall of Fame baseball game on Monday highlight the upcoming three-day weekend in Cooperstown.
Delhi youth center marks 8 years of Friday fun
DELHI — The Power House Youth Center in Delhi is celebrating its eighth anniversary with an open house from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, according to Allen Taylor, co-coordinator.
Wednesday, June 9, 2004
Hartwick professor honored for style of teaching
ONEONTA— Sandy Huntington, a professor at Hartwick College, said getting his students out of the classroom helped bring him the institution's highest honor. Huntington, 55, of Oneonta was awarded the 2004 Margaret B. Bunn Award for Excellence in Teaching during graduation ceremonies last month.
State offices to close Friday
For the first time in more than 30 years, state offices will close in observance of the death of an elected official of the United States. Gov. George Pataki declared Friday a statewide day of prayer and remembrance in honor of former President Ronald Reagan, who died Saturday.
Slaughterhouse annoys neighbors
NEW BERLIN - Some neighbors of KNK Poultry said Tuesday they hope the company's chicken slaughterhouse that burned down May 18 is rebuilt, but not on its current lot in the village of New Berlin. "The place has smelled awful," said Don Nicholson, who lives across North Main Street from KNK.
Business Beat
After 58 years of operation, Oneonta's West End Body Shop closed April 30.
Signs still disappearing as dairy fest approaches
As organizers of the Meredith Dairy Fest continue to prepare for the sixth annual dairy festival this weekend, the distinctive wooden cow signs announcing the event are still under attack. Cow signs began vanishing last week when three disappeared, and the trend is continuing with four more missing as of Monday.
Unadilla Valley student takes gun to school
Some parents of fifth-grade students at Unadilla Valley Central School in New Berlin said Tuesday night they were alarmed that a boy took an unloaded pistol to school that day.
Meeting set on Stamford housing project
STAMFORD — A special Stamford Town Board informational meeting will be held at 7 p.m. today to discuss a proposed low-income housing development in the village of Stamford, said Floyd Many, town council member.
2 charged in cemetery vandalism
Two men have been charged in the vandalism of the Brookeside Cemetery in the town of Butternuts, state police at Sidney said Tuesday.
Couple donates books to SUCO library
ONEONTA — The Milne Library at the State University College at Oneonta is richer thanks to a donation from William Kaufmann and his wife, Virginia Hanlon Kaufmann. "It's a wonderful, eclectic mix," said Janet Potter, the associate provost for library and information services at SUCO. "Once the books started coming, it was like Christmas."
Reagans eased disease's stigma, area activist says
Beyond the politics, former President Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy, did much to increase Alzheimer's disease awareness, local Alzheimer's Association members said Monday. "When he came out, that lifted some of the stigma," said Trudi Cholewinski, the director of programs and services for the Northeast New York chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. "Through his struggle, that really helped inspire many caregivers to go on."
Judge drops slashing charge
ONEONTA — Although an Oneonta man's charge was dismissed in a slashing case Monday in city court, he could be charged again, City Prosecutor Michael Getman said Monday.
Bed tax plan withdrawn in Delaware
DELHI — After the Delaware County Finance Committee withdrew its state request to implement a bed tax, members of the Board of Supervisors questioned the move Monday.
Democrat wins 5th endorsement
Democrat Jeff Miller of New Hartford has won his fifth county committee endorsement in his bid to oust longtime Republican Rep. Sherwood Boehlert, also of New Hartford.
Churches get grants for repairs
Two local churches are receiving grants for restoration projects, the New York Landmarks Conservancy announced Thursday. The conservancy announced grants totaling $110,500 to 32 religious institutions throughout New York state.
Transit of Venus can be seen at 'Wick
ONEONTA — Venus watchers have a chance at a rare sighting today when the Hartwick College physics department holds a public viewing of the transit of Venus early this morning.
Laurens school project loses
LAURENS — A $15.95 million building project at Laurens Central School was defeated by a 584-to-527 vote Monday. "Today's events are a bump in the road, but we will continue to strive toward the needed improvements in the school," said Superintendent Romona Wenck after the paper ballot results were in.
Drugs seized after accident by Echo Lake
An accident Sunday near Echo Lake Campground on state Route 41 in the town of Afton led to the seizure of several illegal drugs and six arrests, state police at Sidney said Monday. Two people died from drug overdoses at a festival at the campground in May.
Committee considers zoning to reconvert divided houses
ONEONTA — As city officials probe a zone change for higher-density residency at Spruce Street's west end, a city committee Monday considered a change at Spruce's other end.
Monday, June 7, 2004
Old and new treats for sale at revamped Bovina general store
BOVINA CENTER — Russell's General Store in Bovina was reopened May 29 by a man who worked at the store as a child and said he knows the store is pivotal to the community. Tim "Harlo" Bray lives next door to the store and said he remembers buying penny candy there as a child before he became Marjorie Russell's "box boy" on Wednesdays after school. "I said, 'Somebody's got to do it — we have got to get it open.
'I liked him as a person'
While American flags flew at half-staff Sunday over Oneonta's Public Safety Building and state police offices, the area's current and former political leaders shared thoughts on Ronald Reagan's presidency.
Vaccine-autism link called false; some skeptical
When Laurie Sorensen's son was born eight years ago, he looked at his mother. By the time he was 3 years old and had received measles-mumps-rubella and chicken pox vaccines, Sorensen said, that had stopped. "That's when he shut down on me," Sorensen said Thursday. "The shots seemed to stop him calling me 'Mommy.' He wouldn't run to me when he got hurt."
Grant to help prof link yoga, science
ONEONTA — Dr. Ashok K. Malhotra, distinguished teaching professor at the State University College at Oneonta, has received a three-year grant from the Metanexus Institute to establish a group that will use yoga and meditation as a link between spirituality and science.
11 charged in Stamford street brawls
STAMFORD — Eleven people were charged Saturday in connection with two fights in Stamford last month, State Police in Margaretville said.
Laurens wins again at Sherburne pageant
The Laurens Central School band has again come home a winner from the Sherburne Pageant of Bands. For the eleventh time, the Laurens Jaguars won the Albert Whitney Overall Achievement award, said pageant coordinator Jeffrey Manwaring.
Man jailed on sex charge
NEW BERLIN — A 41-year-old man was arrested Thursday for allegedly having oral sex with a 14-year-old girl, Chenango County sheriff's deputies said.
Man hurt in accident
OTEGO — An Otego man walked away from a one-car accident with minor injuries Saturday.
Schenevus man recalls war details
SCHENEVUS - The second time Paul Conley of Schenevus landed on the coast of Normandy, for the 50th anniversary of D-Day in 1994, he knew where he was. A half-century earlier, it was a different story. Then, it was just a beach in hell, code-named Utah. "We came over by destroyer and got on the landing barge," said Conley, who was a second lieutenant in the 4th Division, U.S. Army. "The Navy ran the barge, and the man in charge didn't want to go in too close. I guess he'd been in before and shot at, but we had full field packs and didn't want to drown," said Conley, 87.
France honors Sidney resident
Sixty years after he participated in the D-Day invasion of Europe, a Sidney man is returning to Normandy as a guest of the French government.
Weatherman is Citizen of Year
WALTON — Walton weather observer Frank Ward will be honored as Citizen of the Year at the Walton Chamber of Commerce Evening of Entertainment at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, according to Keath Davis, chamber president.
Conference to focus on Burroughs
ONEONTA — The State University College at Oneonta will offer a conference titled "Sharp Eyes III: John Burroughs and His Contemporaries, Near and Far" on campus from Sunday through Thursday.
Trooper, formerly of Edmeston, honored for rescue
Trooper Philip J. Gibbons, formerly of Edmeston, has been awarded the Brummer Award for heroism, according to an announcement posted on New York Gov. George Pataki's Internet website.
Some area 4th-grade English scores drop
Area schools showed mixed results on English test scores released Thursday by the state Education Department. Statewide, while scores have dropped slightly from the previous year on the fourth-grade English language arts test, the scores on the eighth-grade exam showed a slight increase. The tests were given in January and February. Locally, 42 percent of the districts improved on the fourth-grade tests compared to state minimum standards.
SFCU chief named Citizen of the Year
James Doig is getting his day in the sun. Doig, president and chief executive officer of Sidney Federal Credit Union, was picked as the Sidney Chamber of Commerce's Citizen of the Year.
Dairy Fest signs reported missing
Cow rustlers are once again targeting the distinctive Meredith Dairy Fest cow signs, said John Hamilton, Meredith dairy farmer and chairman of the dairy fest.
Official 'pleased' to see three state school aid plans
ALBANY — The state's top education official said Thursday he is confident that the Legislature will come up with a school financing plan, but he declined to choose between the three proposals.
Women honored for turning hardship into advocacy
ONEONTA — Two women who turned difficult situations into a challenge to help others are receiving Women of Distinction certificates from the state Senate.
SUCO alumni to gather at reunion
ONEONTA — Hundreds of alumni, their families, and friends of the State University College at Oneonta will return to campus for Reunion Weekend 2004 from today through Sunday.
City schools award construction bids
ONEONTA — Bids were awarded Wednesday during an Oneonta Board of Education meeting for a city school district building project.
Expanded Drogen's store opening
ONEONTA — After about seven months of construction, a familiar Southside business is having a grand opening this weekend.
'Pageant of Bands' sounds in Sherburne this weekend
SHERBURNE - About 20,000 people are expected to see dozens of junior and senior high school bands in the 55th Sherburne Pageant of Bands, which began Thursday and continues through Saturday.
Local 'Amazing Animals' enter national contest
FLEISCHMANNS — Several pets from the Catskills region, including one from New Kingston, qualified to go to a national contest after competing at a talent show Saturday in Fleishmanns.
300 Bassett workers join in Move for Life
COOPERSTOWN — About 300 employees of Bassett Healthcare joined a physical activity program this spring as part of a statewide workplace wellness initiative.
CMH auxiliary honors volunteers
NORWICH — Chenango Memorial Hospital's Auxiliary honored the hospital's volunteers at a May 19 luncheon at Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.
Sidney High OM team finishes 2nd at worlds
For the first time since 1998, an Odyssey of the Mind World trophy will return to the area with a second-place finish by Sidney High School at the recent competition at the University of Maryland at College Park. Both teams from Bainbridge-Guilford Central School also earned recognition for their showing at the event, officials said. The Division III team of 11th-grade students from Sidney High School received their ranking out of 36 places with ties at several positions in the Balancing Act problem.
Guests face changing hotel rates
Tourists learn a pricey lesson about supply and demand when paying for hotel rooms during the summer months.
Terror prevention funds abound
Something that usually isn't on the minds of people in this area is the target of funds awarded by the federal government this week.
Astronaut takes call from Walton
WALTON — As the International Space Station orbited about 227 miles above Earth on Wednesday, eight Walton Central School high school physics students talked to astronaut Lt. Col. Edward Mike Fincke via a ham radio connection.
Assembly plan: $1.2B more in aid
ALBANY — The Assembly's Democratic majority released a school financing plan Wednesday filled with goodies for needy districts throughout the state.
Otsego board appoints nursing home chief
COOPERSTOWN - By a 9-to-4-to-1 vote Wednesday, the Otsego County Board of Representatives appointed Edmond Marchi as the county's nursing home administrator.
City sets date for workshop on bar ordinance
ONEONTA — In response to criticism from Oneonta bar owners Tuesday night, city officials scheduled a workshop to discuss a proposed bar and tavern ordinance.
Man arraigned on felony assault and DWI charges
ONEONTA — The driver of a car that crashed Tuesday, injuring two Oneonta men, was arraigned Wednesday in City Court on a felony assault charge and a charge of driving while intoxicated.
Margaretville receives excellence award
MARGARETVILLE — Margaretville is the only rural area in New York state that has received the Governor's Quality Communities Awards for Excellence, said Jennifer Gould, director of the M-ARK Project.
City benefits from project
ONEONTA — The work that auto body students at the Oneonta Job Corps Academy did on a city truck may lead to other tax-dollar-saving projects, city officials said. Since early April, students at the West Street campus had worked on a 1988 GMC pickup, sanding away rust, fastening new body panels and repainting the truck in municipal-vehicle yellow. A couple of weeks ago they put on the final polish, and by last Wednesday, the truck sat again in the city's Central Garage.
3 men hurt in crash
ONEONTA — Three men were hurt — two critically — in a fiery one-car drunken-driving crash on Interstate 88 early Tuesday, city police said.
Business Beat
An old building in Franklin is now home to an antiques store. Franklin Durable Goods, owned by Neil Rochmis, opened May 29.
Four injured in one-car rollover
PRESTON — Four people were injured in a one-car rollover Monday in the Chenango County town of Preston.
Council postpones bar vote after heated talk
ONEONTA — After tavern owners berated a proposed bar ordinance at Tuesday's Common Council meeting, several aldermen and the mayor broke into angry debate that ended in a postponed vote on the measure.
Hotaling-Barlow, ex-Otsego clerk, dies at age 77
Former Otsego County Clerk June Hotaling-Barlow died Tuesday morning at The Meadows nursing home in Phoenix Mills after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 77.
Spoor remembered as medical pioneer
Dr. John Spoor, who died May 25 at age 68, was a pioneer in emergency medical care, according to Fred Lemister, Otsego County's emergency services coordinator.
New Berlin residents face BB gun charges
Several arrests and additional charges were announced Friday in a series of BB gun shootings in the town and village of New Berlin between May 2 and May 10, Chenango County deputies said.
Retiring city court employee recalls changes over career
ONEONTA — Sifting through a cardboard box of framed family photos in her office Thursday, Ann Lane, 58, chief clerk of the city court, said her career and her family always intertwined.
Less federal school aid predicted
ALBANY — School districts outside New York City could lose a significant chunk of their federal aid next year, according to the state Education Department.
Hundreds attend Memorial Day services
ONEONTA — John and Andrea Pontius of Oneonta said they have been attending the Memorial Day parade for the past 20 years and watched four of their children march in it. This time they were watching their son, John, perform in the Oneonta High School marching band. The Oneonta couple grinned as they watched children in the parade go by. The threatening sky held off delivering rain long enough to complete the Memorial Day activities in Oneonta on Monday.
260 get degrees in Hartwick rites
ONEONTA — More than 60 years after he graduated from Hartwick College, a Hancock businessman received a diploma during this year's college graduation ceremonies.
Annual river ride for charities set
ONEONTA — Opportunities For Otsego has announced final plans for its third annual River Ride for Hunger and Homelessness starting in Oneonta on June 12.
