Few show at hearing on refunds
Opinion is split on whether the Otsego County Board of Representatives should issue refund checks, if Wednesday night’s public hearing is any guide.
Main Headline
The area’s representative to the Scripps National Spelling Bee will finish her week by watching from the audience.
Hayley Chwazik-Gee, an eighth-grader at Norwich Middle School, did not advance to the third round of the bee Wednesday afternoon.
Hanley won’t run in 8th Ward; Hodne might
Eighth Ward Alderman Patti Hanley said Wednesday she is not seeking election to the Common Council this fall.
After her announcement, Otsego County Rep. Kevin Hodne, who represents the Seventh and Eighth wards, said he is eying a switch to the Common Council. Hodne said last week he would not run for a sixth, two-year term on the county board.
Hospital to buy nursing facility
Cobleskill Regional Hospital has signed a purchasing agreement for the Eden Park Health Care Center in Cobleskill.
Robbery cases heard
Two men pleaded innocent at separate arraignments to eight counts of second-degree robbery allegedly occurring March 19 in the town of Oneonta.
Reunion Weekend set at SUCO
ONEONTA -- Hundreds of State University College at Oneonta alumni, their families and friends of the college are expected to return to campus for Reunion Weekend 2007.
State moves back election deadlines
New York state’s primary election will be held Sept. 18, established by a law signed Tuesday night by Gov. Eliot Spitzer, according to spokesman Marc Violette.
Area News Briefs
ONEONTA _ A dispute in an apartment Tuesday afternoon led to the arrest of a New York City man on assault and criminal-mischief charges, city police said.
May 30, 2007
Schumer: NYRI will fail
Sen. Charles Schumer told a group of area business, community and political leaders Tuesday that a $1.6 billion power line proposal from New York Regional Interconnect Inc. will be stopped.
Most reps in Otsego running
Almost all incumbents on the Otsego County Board of Representatives are seeking re-election.
Fox gains recommendation for clinic
All that is standing between A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital and an outpatient mental-health clinic is final approval from the state Office of Mental Health.
Man had criminal history in Delaware
A man who allegedly sexually assaulted a child before slitting the throat of the child’s grandmother and killing himself in West Islip on Monday was charged with attempted murder in Delaware County in 1981.
May 29, 2007
Republican makes race in 3rd Ward
With the announcement Monday of a Third Ward Republican’s intention to run for the Common Council, the city has its first contested race for city office.
Elm Street resident Erik Miller, executive director of the Otsego County Conservation Association, said he has received the endorsement of the Oneonta Republican Committee and will also petition to appear on the Conservative and Independence lines.
Two repeat regatta win
45TH ANNUAL GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA ... Michigan residents Andy Triebold and Matt Rimer won their second straight Pro C-2 championship Monday during the 45th annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta.
Schumer to talk with leaders
Local officials are expecting Sen. Charles Schumer, D-NY, will focus on economic development, flood control and issues surrounding education when he visits Oneonta today to meet with community leaders.
Oneonta honors those who served
ONEONTA _ Many people throughout the area took time from their long weekends Monday to remember the reason for Memorial Day.
250 earn degrees at Hartwick
ONEONTA _ The hills on the Hartwick College campus serve as a good guide for life, a renowned businesswoman told the Hartwick class of 2007 Saturday.
Grant to bolster Franklin reading program
Franklin Central School recently received a $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation for South Central New York to help students in kindergarten through third grade compete in a reading program.
Area News Briefs
NEW BERLIN _ An Edmeston man was arrested in New Berlin Saturday for making death threats, according to New Berlin police.
May 28, 2007
Board divided on tax refunds
Gov. Eliot Spitzer has signed into law a bill that would allow Otsego County to issue refunds for the overpayment of property taxes in 2007.
The band was vet’s WWII gig
George Ballantine sat in his home in Andes and reminisced about his unusual stint in the Army during World War II.
Third Ward Dem steps into race
A woman living in Oneonta’s Third Ward announced her candidacy for a seat on the Common Council on Friday.
On The Bright Side: Walton team makes finals of FFA event
The Walton Central School FFA Forestry Team took first place in the New York State FFA Forestry Competition at Paul Smith’s College on May 17, garnering a spot in the national competition.
NYRI opponents seek local hearing
About 20 people from Chenango and Madison counties attended Wednesday’s Department of Energy hearing on establishing ``national interest electric transmission corridors,’’ according to Chris Rossi, co-chair of Stop NYRI Inc.
Area brief
A Deposit man was arrested Wednesday for allegedly selling narcotics, according to Delaware County sheriff’s deputies.
Theater Project to have auction
The Todd Mountain Theater Project benefit auction and brunch from noon to 2:30 p.m. Sunday is an opportunity to enjoy lunch, bid on amazing items and still have time to go to a picnic later in the day, Suzanne Pred Bass, founder and artistic director, said Friday.
Board divided on tax refunds
Gov. Eliot Spitzer has signed into law a bill that would allow Otsego County to issue refunds for the overpayment of property taxes in 2007.
The band was vet’s WWII gig
George Ballantine sat in his home in Andes and reminisced about his unusual stint in the Army during World War II.
Third Ward Dem steps into race
A woman living in Oneonta’s Third Ward announced her candidacy for a seat on the Common Council on Friday.
On The Bright Side: Walton team makes finals of FFA event
The Walton Central School FFA Forestry Team took first place in the New York State FFA Forestry Competition at Paul Smith’s College on May 17, garnering a spot in the national competition.
NYRI opponents seek local hearing
About 20 people from Chenango and Madison counties attended Wednesday’s Department of Energy hearing on establishing ``national interest electric transmission corridors,’’ according to Chris Rossi, co-chair of Stop NYRI Inc.
Area brief
A Deposit man was arrested Wednesday for allegedly selling narcotics, according to Delaware County sheriff’s deputies.
Theater Project to have auction
The Todd Mountain Theater Project benefit auction and brunch from noon to 2:30 p.m. Sunday is an opportunity to enjoy lunch, bid on amazing items and still have time to go to a picnic later in the day, Suzanne Pred Bass, founder and artistic director, said Friday.
City: Damaschke Field to be ready
Renovations to Damaschke Field are nearing completion, and the ballpark is expected to be ready for the home opener of the Oneonta Tigers on June 22.
"We will be open on opening day," said James Hawver of the city engineering department.
Hodne won’t run in Dist. 14
Democrat Kevin Hodne of Walnut Street in Oneonta announced Thursday he will not seek re-election to the Otsego County Board of Representatives this fall.
On The Bright Side: Work restores memorial’s shine
The venerable limestone and marble memorial dedicated to sailors and soldiers from Otsego County who died in the Civil War is being restored, thanks to the efforts of the Cooperstown Veterans Club and Jane Forbes Clark.
Court appearance delayed for Marchi
Edmond Marchi, Otsego Manor’s suspended administrator who is charged with drunken driving, will not appear in Richfield Town Court on Tuesday, according to John Lambert, the county’s chief assistant district attorney.
Benefit planned for trooper’s daughter
The Catskill Mountain Christian Center is holding a benefit walk at 6 p.m. Saturday to honor trooper David Brinkerhoff and to raise money for the Isabella Grace Brinkerhoff Trust Fund, Stephanie Seminara, center spokeswoman said Thursday.
Cobleskill man to bring brother’s dog tags home
Leo Uniszkiewicz was 12 years old when his older brother, Joseph, was shot down over Bricquebec, France.
Nearly 63 years later, Uniszkiewicz is going to France to bring home his brother’s dog tags and present two villages with resolutions of thanks from New York.
’Wick official takes Pa. job
Hartwick College’s vice president of student life will be leaving at the end of June to take a similar position at Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania.
Church in Margaretville seeks prayers for troops
A Margaretville woman whose son is serving with the Army in Iraq started a grass-roots prayer movement when she asked the members of her church to pray for his safe return, according to Stephanie Seminara, Catskill Mountain Christian Center spokeswoman.
City panel to assist in rentals
The city plans to have an ad-hoc panel of residents, landlords and officials help oversee the effectiveness of the city’s summer-rental ordinance and smooth over conflicts.
Past chair: Board evolves
Carl Higgins, former chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives, loves retirement.
Police: Sisters spent $1,690 on stolen card
Two sisters face felony charges after using a credit card one of them allegedly stole while doing community service at the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Oneonta as an alternative to jail time.
On The Bright Side: Bentley lovers add Roxbury stop to tour
ROXBURY _ An unusual parade of vehicles roared up Burroughs Memorial Road to stop at Woodchuck Lodge on Wednesday morning.
"Bentleys always sound like farm tractors," Mariann Stickey, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, said with a laugh as several more vintage automobiles pulled into view.
DEC ends monitoring at C’town gas station
The former Mobil gas station on Chestnut Street in Cooperstown is no longer being monitored by the state Department of Environmental Conservation.
No comment after meeting in Schenevus
Schenevus Central School District officials, citing privacy rules, are not talking about the outcome of a Tuesday night Board of Education meeting on the showing of a video some parents say is too mature for their children.
Robinson announces bid for second term
ONEONTA _ Second Ward Alderman Paul Robinson issued an official announcement Wednesday saying he would run for a second term on the Common Council.
Supervisors told to improve census count
DELHI _ Delaware County supervisors were warned Wednesday they must find a way to identify housing units in their towns to keep population numbers up in the 2010 Census.
Area News Briefs
GILBERTSVILLE _ Gilbertsville-Mount Upton Central School will be closed Friday and Monday in observance of Memorial Day.
May 23, 2007
More area students pass English test
Improvements statewide in middle school 2007 English Language Arts scores were seen in state Education Department results, and many local districts mirrored the trend.
Locals protest NYRI
A bus is scheduled to leave Hamilton at 4:30 and Norwich at 5 this morning as upstate residents travel to New York City to protest the Department of Energy’s plans to create two ``national interest electric transmission corridors.’’
Parents: Fire teacher for showing video
A PBS documentary on marketing to teenagers shown to seventh-graders at Schenevus Central School has left some parents upset.
The parents of four students said that during a home and careers class May 7, their daughters were exposed to too-mature content when they were shown the Frontline documentary "Merchants of Cool."
On The Bright Side: Cooperstown area has first beverage trail
Otsego County is home to the first official trail designated under the state Farm, Apple and Cuisine Trail program.
The Cooperstown Beverage Trail, which will be promoted online and through its own magazine, links Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard, Brewery Ommegang, Cooperstown Brewing Company and Bear Pond Winery.
Area high schools ready to graduate veterans
Veterans of World War II, the Korean conflict and the Vietnam War who were unable to complete high school may consider getting a diploma this graduation season.
Grange in Margaretville seeks members
The New Kingston Valley Grange is inviting area families to turn off the television, abandon the computer and rediscover social activities by attending a meeting where people can get acquainted with the organization.
Court Report
Oneonta City Court reported that defendants pleaded guilty, unless otherwise indicated, and were fined and sentenced as listed below:
May 22, 2007
Area man treated after rabid-fox bite
A New Lisbon man attacked on his porch by a rabid fox last week said the creature came out of nowhere.
"It jumped about six or eight feet and grabbed onto my lower calf," John Lernihan said Monday.
On the Bright Side: Preservation work honored
Six properties are receiving the 2007 Historic Preservation Awards, according to an news release from Otsego 2000. The awards are for properties in Otsego and Schoharie counties.
Recipients are Chartwell Studios in Sharon Springs, the Chase House in Worcester, the Pierstown Grange, the Greater Milford Historical Association, and Doug Plummer and Garth Roberts, of Sharon Springs.
Man sent to jail on drug charges
A Schenevus man was sent to the Otsego County jail Monday on felony drug charges, according to Otsego County sheriff’s deputies.
CROP program will continue
at six districts
The future of funding for CROP programs scheduled to lose their federal funding June 30 should be clearer in a month, a program official said.
Man plead innocent in rape case
A Sidney man arrested for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl pleaded innocent in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Star parent, Monster
set job-recruiting deal
Community Newspaper Holdings Inc., the parent company of The Daily Star, has started an alliance with Monster, according to a news release from CNHI.
Man charged in theft, DWI
A Saratoga County man was arrested Saturday on several felony and misdemeanor charges Saturday as police investigated a report of a stolen vehicle.
May 21, 2007
Less trash costs more for Otsego
Otsego County is behind on its GAT to MOSA, a combination of acronyms that could spell trouble for county taxpayers.
Lusins seeks to lead town
Town of Oneonta Councilwoman Marie Lusins said Sunday she is seeking to replace Duncan Davie as town supervisor.
Last week, Davie announced he would not be running for re-election this November.
On The Bright Side: Roxbury offers rides to past
Dressing up and stepping into the past is the adventure awaiting people who take the Delaware & Ulster train for a rail ride into yesteryear in Roxbury.
SUCO presents degrees to 1,500 students
In his first commencement address as a congressman, REp. Michael Arcuri urged graduates of the State University College at Oneonta to "sacrifice through service for the greater good."
Arcuri, D-Utica, spoke Saturday during two graduation ceremonies recognizing the conferring of more than 1,500 degrees for academic work completed in August 2006, December 2006 and May 2007. Students from as close as Otego and as far away as Krasnoyarsk, Russia received degrees.
700 get degrees at SUNY Delhi
There was more than just a diploma awaiting students who graduated Saturday from the State University College of Technology at Delhi.
Davenport school to put $8M project before voters
A building project going before Charlotte Valley Central School voters June 12 is expected to save the district money and do something for the environment, the school superintendent said.
Prof writes ninth book
ONEONTA _ A State University College at Oneonta philosophy professor has completed his ninth book, "Wisdom of the Tao Te Ching: The Code of a Spiritual Warrior."
Area News Briefs
The office of Rep. Michael A. Arcuri, D-Utica, will hold mobile office hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday at Oneonta City Hall.
May 19, 2007
Gas prices alter habits, some say
The trend of increasing gas prices doesn’t seem so bad when you look at the numbers from federal and statistical business sources.
On the Bright Side: Lost town subject of film
An Andes school project that was supposed to be a five-minute trip down memory lane turned into a two-year journey to dredge up recollections of a town lost to the Pepacton Reservoir.
Arrested aide fired, school official says
More details were made available Friday in the arrest of a St. Mary’s School teacher’s aide resulting from a May 4 incident at an after-school program.
Most Schoharie Creek sirens set
All but four of 20 high-decibel warning sirens are in place along flood-prone Schoharie Creek, Board of Supervisors Chairman Earl Van Wormer III said Friday.
Otsego honors foster parents
The Otsego County Board of Representatives and the county’s Department of Social Services recognized Otsego’s foster parents before Wednesday night’s board meeting in Cooperstown.
Shortfall at Manor after error
COOPERSTOWN _ Otsego County may be short between $430,000 and $720,000 this year because suspended Otsego Manor Administrator Edmond Marchi did not tell accountants to certify a report for the state Health Department.
Students say get cleaner, more retail
The city’s college students are generally happy with Oneonta, although many see a need for more retail outlets and some suggested the city is dirty, according to recent survey results.
Murphy to challenge for District 4 seat
Town of Oneonta Councilman Richard Murphy announced Thursday he will seek the county Board of Representatives District 4 seat held by Republican Hugh Henderson.
The announcement by Murphy, a Democrat, is the latest shake-up on a board that has been together for more than five years.
Students learn Web can hide, expose ID
Internet safety was the theme of a Sidney Middle School assembly Thursday, and the message seemed to be heard by at least some of the students in grades 6 to 8.
10 troopers receive awards for response
Ten members of Troop C of the New York state police, including several who work out of Sidney, were among more than 50 people honored Wednesday at the annual state police awards ceremony in Albany.
Teen hurt in ATV accident
A Morris teen was treated at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown and released Monday after an ATV accident, state police at Oneonta said.
SUCO will award 1,500 degrees
ONEONTA _ Thousands of parents, family members, alumni and friends will be on hand Saturday for the State University College at Oneonta’s 118th commencement.
Bonacic to address SUNY Delhi grads
DELHI _ State Sen. John J. Bonacic will deliver the keynote address at the State University College of Technology at Delhi’s 90th annual commencement Saturday.
Tonko speaking
at SUNY Cobleskill
COBLESKILL _ Assemblyman Paul D. Tonko will deliver the keynote address at the State University College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill’s 91st spring commencement at 11 a.m. Saturday.
May 17, 2007
Niche made for nature
Colorful birds and butterflies now flutter about a historic property in the east end of Oneonta.
Sale near, not final
The owner of the former Bresee’s complex between Main and Wall streets said Wednesday he is nearing a deal on selling what was for decades a premier downtown shopping destination.
Maurice Ramos, who does business as Northeast Investment Group Inc., said his real-estate agency is working with a potential buyer for the mostly vacant property, which has been declared unsafe by the city.
State to Fox Hospital: Keep psych units open
The state will find a way to keep two hospital psychiatric units open in Oneonta, a representative from the state Office of Mental Health said Wednesday.
Man charged in school fight
A 22-year-old Middleburgh man was arrested Wednesday after an investigation into an alleged May 4 altercation between two teacher’s aides at St. Mary’s School in Oneonta, state police at Oneonta said.
CV-S sets meeting to review budget
The fate of the Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School budget will be discussed during a special Board of Education meeting May 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the school, Superintendent Nicholas Savin said Wednesday.
Members offer praise for Delhi candidates
The eight candidates who ran for three seats on the Delaware Academy and Delhi Central School Board of Education in Tuesday’s election were motivated by an interest in serving the community, board member Nancy Deming said Wednesday.
Oneonta district approves services for building plan
The day after voters in the Oneonta City School District approved a $32 million 2007-08 budget and spending on a $14 million capital project, the board took action on the latter at Wednesday’s regular Board of Education meeting.
17-ton concrete block falls onto Route 28
A truck hauling a massive concrete box rounded a curve on state Route 28 in Meredith on Tuesday morning and lost its load, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputy Kim Smith said Wednesday.
County to run HOF parking arrangements
At Wednesday night’s meeting, the Otsego County Board of Representatives appointed itself lead agency for peripheral parking during the National Baseball Hall of Fame’s induction weekend.
Fox will delay unit closures
ONEONTA _ The state Office of Mental Health has "requested" that A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital wait 45 days before deciding not to admit new patients to its two psychiatric units, according to a memo sent by President John Remillard to hospital employees, physicians and volunteers.
Bull kills 80-year-old Andes farmer
An Andes farmer was killed by a bull and his son was injured when he attempted to help his father Tuesday morning, Investigator David Lennon of the state police at Margaretville said.
CV-S budget defeated; all others in area pass
A large increase in state aid this year apparently helped most area districts pass their 2007-08 budgets Tuesday. Only the Cherry Valley-Springfield budget, which called for a 2.9 percent tax-levy hike, was defeated, by a vote of 361-334.
Otsego man hid during fiery standoff, police say
With his wife’s house burning to the ground nearby, Emery J. Kane Sr. shot himself in the head with a short-barreled shotgun at about 4:45 p.m. Monday, according to Robert Fernandez, state police senior investigator.
Main Headline
A 29-year-old man died Monday night in a motorcycle crash on state Route 28 in Schuyler Lake.
Comprehensive plan approved by city council
City aldermen adopted a new comprehensive plan Tuesday night by a unanimous vote.
But the Common Council meeting started 20 minutes late_ an unprecedented event in Mayor John Nader’s year and a half in office - as aldermen and the mayor conferred individually about the draft document in small groups outside of Common Council chambers prior to the call-to-order.
Democrat to run in Seventh Ward
ONEONTA _ Seventh Ward resident Marjorie J. Hathaway is the first city resident outside of incumbent aldermen to announce a candidacy for the Common Council.
She is challenging incumbent Sean Farrell, a Republican who represents the Seventh Ward. He said Tuesday night he is undecided on a re-election bid.
Farrell’s house on Ravine Parkway North is on the market.
Success in getting Otsego flood aid called team effort
The successful grant application that will allow Otsego County to acquire nine flood-damaged properties in the county at a cost of up to $1,056,744 was a collaborative effort, Otsego County Senior Planner Karen Sullivan said Tuesday.
May 15, 2007
Man shoots self after standoff
A man believed by police to have set fire to his own home Monday afternoon sat and watched it burn from a lawn chair as he pointed a gun at people who came to help, according to witnesses.
Emery J. Kane Sr., 60, who neighbors said may have been distraught over a recent domestic dispute with his wife, later shot and killed himself with a sawed-off shotgun, ending the nearly two-hour standoff at his home in South Hartwick, state police at Sidney said.
Fox Hospital to close psychiatric units
A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital will stop admitting patients to its two psychiatric units Friday, hospital officials said Monday.
School budget votes today
When voters go to the polls today in school districts across the state, they will be deciding on budgets, school board candidates and other propositions for the upcoming school year.
Man resentenced for sodomy
DELHI _ An Oneonta man sentenced in February to 30 years in prison on sodomy charges was resentenced in Delaware County Court on Monday.
Area News Roundup
WEST ONEONTA _ A public hearing on a proposed gravel and sand mine off state Route 205 scheduled for tonight before the Oneonta Town Planning Board has been canceled.
May 14, 2007
Davie not seeking new term
The town of Oneonta’s longtime supervisor has decided not to seek re-election this fall.
Duncan Davie announced Sunday that 18 years at the helm of Oneonta town government is enough.
His fellow Republican, town Councilman Carleton Delameter, also said Sunday he is eying a run for supervisor.
Local grad rates better than state
More area students are graduating from high school in four years than their counterparts across the state, according to a recent report from the state Department of Education.
Star photographer wins award
Daily Star chief photographer Julie Lewis was among those honored by the New York Newspaper Publishers Association at an awards dinner Thursday in Albany.
Area News Brief
A Sidney man was arrested Thursday on several charges for allegedly growing marijuana in his child’s room, Sidney police said.
Area School Budget Roundup
The 2007-08 Oneonta City School District budget calls for a 5.78 percent increase in the estimated tax levy and a spending increase of 6.6 percent, Superintendent Michael Shea said.
May 12, 2007
No local meeting set on federal power-line plans
The Department of Energy does not plan to hold a public hearing on its national interest electric transmission corridors near the path of New York Regional Interconnect’s proposed $1.6 billion power line.
Soccer Hall gets president
The search is over at the National Soccer Hall of Fame with the announcement Friday that Stephen H. Baumann has been named president and chief operating officer of the organization.
Mom adopts, fosters, cares
With children swirling about her living room, Dee Maney’s blue eyes sparkle as she talks about how much she loves being a mom.
Man pleads to manslaughter
An 18-year-old Cobleskill man agreed to a plea deal in Schoharie County Court late Thursday that put him in prison for 25 years for manslaughter.
Delaware deputies to host benefit softball games
Thousands of people are expected to show up at the Delhi American Legion Field on Saturday to take the field to play softball against the law for a good cause, John Schafer, Delaware County Sheriff’s Department correction officer, said Friday.
Man killed in crash
Oneonta police are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident that occurred Friday morning on I-88, about a half mile east of the Exit 13 westbound off ramp.
Hartwick dedicates site
A building at Hartwick College that is expected to be completed by June 2008 was dedicated during a noon ceremony Friday.
area news briefs
Country music star Collin Raye will be the featured entertainer at the 17th Annual Fox Gala, "Gala American," on Nov. 3, according to a media release Friday from A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta.
Primary shift to affect local races
New York State’s election calendar is likely to run a week later than usual this year to avoid holding a primary election on Sept. 11.
On the Bright Side: Man reels in record catch
Ian Kiraly knew he had a decent striped bass on the end of his line during a Hudson River fishing trip Wednesday.
But the 2003 Franklin High School graduate said he didn’t know it might be a state record until it was finally netted.
After a battle he said lasted between 30 and 45 minutes, Kiraly, assisted by his fishing partners, boated a 55-pound, 6-ounce striper that was 49 3/8ths inches long.
Area School Budget Roundup
Bainbridge-Guilford
Voters will decide on a budget that calls for a 4.95 percent increase in the tax levy and a 9.47 percent increase in spending, said Superintendent Karl Brown.
Dairy Fest cows get creative
It’s the time of year when the Meredith Dairy Fest cows begin to appear along area roads, but this year, some very unusual cows are in store windows.
Dubben seeks return to board
Former Otsego County Rep. Sam Dubben, of Middlefield, said Thursday he is running for the District 7 seat on the county board.
Support for refunds shrinking
A bill that would authorize the Otsego County Board of Representatives to send out tax refunds this summer may soon be signed by Gov. Eliot Spitzer.
But whether checks ever will be mailed to taxpayers is in doubt.
Feds offer more hearings on power lines
WASHINGTON -- Federal officials said Wednesday they will expand public hearings on two proposed electricity "transmission corridors" -- designations that could spur the building of major power lines in many states, including the New York Regional Interconnect project, regardless of local opposition.
On the Bright Side: OHS senior wins $10K scholarship
Coca-Cola will put more than a little fizz into the future of an Oneonta High School senior.
Harrison Wright was recently chosen to receive a $10,000 regional scholarship from the Coca-Cola Foundation.
Social services chief says homeless need Delaware housing
DELHI _ Delaware County is one of only two counties statewide that doesn’t have a homeless-assistance program, Social Services Director William Moon said Wednesday.
And, he said, in the wake of last June’s flooding, something has to be done to remedy the situation.
Area School Budget Roundup
The proposed 2007-08 budget at Downsville Central School is $8,427,545, Superintendent Robert Mackey said Wednesday. That is a 7 percent, or $551,255, increase from the 2006-07 budget of $7,876,290.
Police: Offender failed to notify
A former village of Laurens Level 2 sex offender was arrested Wednesday for failure to properly notify authorities of a recent move, Otsego deputies said.
Cocaine, DWI, sex-offense cases heard
In Otsego County Court on Monday before Judge Michael Coccoma, Ian Coan, 25, of Oneonta, pleaded guilty to fifth-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, cocaine.
May 9, 2007
Bassett doctors teach Dominican peers
A group of surgeons from Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown is striving to help reduce complications from gall-bladder surgery in the Dominican Republic.
’Spykes’ can harm youths, groups warn
The latest offering from Anheuser-Busch resembles a bottle of nail polish.
And with flavors such as chocolate, banana, melon, lime and mango, as well as a high-speed marketing campaign, some in the alcohol awareness field are concerned the product may be abused by people not old enough to legally drink.
Fitness instructor to take Y executive reins
A long-time Oneonta firefighter will become the next executive director of the Oneonta Family YMCA.
Frank Russo III, a member of the fire department since 1983, will take over from Interim Executive Director Cheri Albrecht on Jan. 1, 2008.
Libraries to get building funds
Three area public libraries have been awarded grants for building projects as part of a $14 million 2006 special state legislative appropriation of capital funds for construction and renovations.
Grant helps local families
Delaware Opportunities is one of 11 agencies receiving a grant for the Healthy Families New York Home Visiting Program, Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Gladys Carrion said Tuesday in a media release.
Area News Roundup
ALBANY (AP) -- A state trooper wounded in the April 25 shootout that left another trooper and a suspect dead in a remote farmhouse was released from the hospital Tuesday, according to state police.
Area School Budget Roundup
The proposed 2007-2008 budget for Edmeston Central School is nearly eight percent higher than this school year’s budget, although the property-tax levy would increase less than 2 percent under the spending plan.
City to review proposals
A city-commissioned engineering study of the former Bresee’s complex will be made available to potential investors interested in purchasing the decaying property, Mayor John Nader said Monday.
Five proposals from engineering firms seeking to conduct the study of the roof and structural integrity of the main building were received by the city Purchasing Office by Monday, the last day for submission.
Area school chief dies
The superintendent of Gilboa-Conesville Central School died Sunday.
Martin Matthew Murray was 59.
Area student wins contest
A Norwich High School student placed first in the 24th Congressional District in this year’s Congressional Art Contest: An Artistic Discovery.
Women sentenced for fake Rx
Two Walton women pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court on Monday to forging a doctor’s prescription to purchase narcotics.
Man to have hearing on porn charges
A Unadilla man facing federal sex-crime charges is scheduled for a detention hearing Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Binghamton.
A June 25 trial date has been set in the case against Michael J. Frascatore, 42.
Fight at St. Mary’s investigated
ONEONTA _ An alleged incident involving two teacher’s aides at St. Mary’s School’s after-school program is being investigated by state police at Oneonta, several people familiar with the situation said Monday.
Laurens school budget proposal
Three people are running for one three-year seat in the Laurens Central School District, according to school officials.
May 7, 2007
More aid means smaller school tax hikes
Increases in state aid to education for 2007-08 have allowed about 86 percent of districts in the area to present budgets with less of a tax-levy increase than a year ago.
Truck rolls, killing Hamden man, 65
A 65-year-old Hamden resident died Saturday after he was crushed by the pickup truck on which he was working.
John G. Eppich was pronounced dead in his driveway on Basin Clove Road by Delaware County Medical Examiner Richard Ucci, according to a media release from the Delaware County Sheriff’s Department.
60 attend Gillibrand meeting
More than 60 people attended a town-hall forum sponsored by Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-Hudson, in Portlandville on Saturday.
BOCES to begin building project
The groundbreaking for the first phase of the Delaware-Chenango-Madison-Otsego Board of Cooperative Educational Services building project will be held Friday at 10 a.m. in Norwich.
Florida fugitive nabbed
A Worcester resident was arrested Friday as a fugitive from justice from Florida, Otsego County sheriff’s deputies said.
Funding available for area arts projects
ONEONTA _ The Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts is suggesting that artists in literature, media arts, visual arts, music and theatre apply for a Strategic Opportunity Stipend.
Area News Roundup
A Level 3 sex offender was arrested Wednesday and charged with moving from his Norwich address in March to a Hyde Park location without proper notification, Chenango County sheriff’s deputies said.
May 5, 2007
No sting to local beekeepers
While there may not be as much buzzing around the hives of some honeybee colonies, this area does not appear to be affected by dramatic losses that have spurred a U.S. senator into action.
Boat sinks off of Haiti
A woman who grew up in Oneonta says she is thrilled to return to her hometown to hear one of her compositions performed by a local orchestra.
Debate over NYRI line heats up
On May 19, a rally against the proposed New York Regional Interconnect Inc. power line will be held in Sherburne.
Deadline extended
Farmers seeking a share of the state’s $30 million relief package for the dairy industry can still apply even though the deadline has passed, according to the state Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Impact of higher milk prices to take time
While farmers are starting to get more money for milk, they face a long road back from more than a year of low prices, several said Friday.
Delaware, city to get flood aid
The city of Oneonta and Delaware County will receive millions of dollars in reimbursement for major projects done as a result of flooding last summer.
Rep, treasurer spar over records request
The vice chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives and the county treasurer may be headed to state Supreme Court in a battle over estate records.
SUCO employee to bicycle across U.S. this summer
ONEONTA _ A local woman will spend the summer riding her bike across the country as part of the Illini 4000 to raise money and spread awareness about cancer.
Trooper recalled as `hero"
A church bell tolled 29 times at the beginning of trooper David Brinkerhoff’s funeral service Wednesday _ once for each year of his life.
`It’s heartbreaking’
State troopers and law-enforcement officers from around the United States and Canada stood in formation Wednesday outside the church where a funeral was being held for trooper David Brinkerhoff.
Schumer demands funding for COPS
In the wake of the shooting of three troopers in Margaretville and the rampage at Virginia Tech, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., criticized budget cuts to federal programs that provide money to upstate law enforcement.
Scholars honored
ONEONTA _ The finest in area scholars and the teachers who influenced them got together Wednesday for the fourth annual Scholar Recognition Dinner.
Center gets $1M grant
The Catskill Watershed Corporation awarded the Catskill Water Discovery Center a $1 million grant at its April 24 board meeting, a museum spokeswoman said Tuesday.
UV on state school aid list
Unadilla Valley Central School is one of two area districts affected by recently released regulations for the Contract For Excellence.
Area News Brief
ONEONTA _ Several hundred college students and community volunteers will team up Saturday for "Into the Streets," Otsego County’s largest day of volunteer service.
Responders didn’t know suspect was in house
As state police continue to investigate the shooting death of trooper David Brinkerhoff near Margaretville last Wednesday, a detailed chronology of events leading up to the shooting was released Tuesday.
Bassett should have apologized, son says
What Dr. Michael Powers wanted from Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, he said Tuesday, wasn’t an apology for him, but one for his father.
Otsego County won’t lease land to natural-gas driller
The Otsego County Board of Representatives will not vote today to lease county land to natural-gas drillers, although some local landowners may see drilling rigs on their properties this summer.
On The Bright Side: Student’s answers win at Law Day
Owen Moss, a senior at Unatego Central School, won the Liberty Bell Award on Tuesday during Otsego County’s annual Law Day celebration at the county courthouse in Cooperstown.
Council OKs `Sidewalk Cafe’ law
Downtown restaurant patrons may soon have more choices following action at Tuesday’s regular Oneonta Common Council meeting.
The council approved the "Sidewalk Cafe" ordinance "to enhance the downtown Oneonta experience," according to the resolution.
Arcuri to speak at SUCO commencement
ONEONTA _ The State University College at Oneonta announced Tuesday that Rep. Michael Arcuri, D-Utica, will be the speaker at the college’s 118th commencement May 19.
Otsego board set to have race in District 7
Former Otsego County Social Services Commissioner Charles Christman, a Republican who lives in Middlefeld, announced Tuesday that he plans to run for the District 7 seat on the Otsego County Board of Representatives.
Meredith seeks revised rules on wind-turbine proposals
The Meredith Town Board rejected the Meredith Planning Board’s proposed wind-power regulations at a joint meeting April 23, Keitha Copouya, Meredith Planning Board chairwoman, said Tuesday.
Family homeless after fire in Laurens
The cause of an early morning fire at a Laurens apartment building that left a family of three homeless is considered suspicious, a fire official said Tuesday.
May 1, 2007
Meeting turned into crisis response
A group of doctors was gathered in the right place at the right time when two troopers were shot in Margaretville on Wednesday morning.
Legislators say no to same-sex marriage marriages, most are
A same-sex marriage bill proposed by Gov. Eliot Spitzer has little chance of passing if the people representing this area in the state Legislature are any sign of other members’ opinions.
Norwich dairy owner: Recalled milk found
NORWICH _ All of the milk from Evan’s Farmhouse Creamery in Norwich that was deemed improperly pasteurized last week has been accounted for, according to owner David Evans.
