Tuesday, May 3, 2011

THE MISSION: EDUCATION

4-23-10

With public schools in Otsego and Delaware counties tightening     budgets and expecting class sizes to rise this year, some parents are assessing the options they have for educating their children. In Oneonta at least two Christian schools have survived the tests and   trials of time.  On Route 7, St. Mary’s School celebrated 85 years of education in 2009.  And on River Street, the Oneonta Community Christian School is celebrating 25 years of education this year. Register now for the fall.

St. Mary’s: ‘We Live Our Faith’
Fewer Students Mean Individual Attention

By LAURA COX : ONEONTA

In 1924, St. Mary’s Church first opened a Catholic school on Walnut Street. Then, around the turn of the 21st Century, recently deceased Father Paul Roman spearheaded the transition of the school to its new building, which opened in 2001.
The early-childhood through sixth grade school follows the New York State curriculum and performs state testing just as in the public schools.
“We add to that the Catholic faith values,” said St. Mary’s Principal Patricia Bliss, “we take care of the intellectual, social and physical needs of students like all schools do, but we also have the opportunity to address spiritual needs.
“Here we are able to live our faith,” said Bliss, “We’re not in math class counting angels and subtracting
devils, but when there are teachable moments we can use our faith to talk about it.”
The 116-student school will be making some changes in the upcoming school year, Bliss said. With a drop in enrollment over the last few years they have reevaluated their class sizes and have made the decision to move to a multi-age classroom setting.
In this new set up, they will be combining certain grades in one classroom as dictated by the enrollment. Bliss anticipates first and second grades, third and fourth grades, and fifth and sixth grades will be combined, the idea is to not only meet the social needs of students, but also their learning needs.
Currently the sixth grade class at St. Mary’s only has two students; other classes have just four or seven. While the school embraces small class sizes as an opportunity to work with students one on one, Bliss said it does not provide much of a social outlet for the students.
In the multi-age classrooms teachers will be using technology to better meet the learning needs of the students they work with.
“With differentiated instruction we will be able to meet each child at their individual needs and we will also be more technology based,” said Bliss.
She explained that if students are learning to add fractions and one student has mastered the concept, they can move on using computer software programs and they will not be “set in the curriculum.”
The school received a Smartboard in recent weeks thanks to an anonymous donor and a few other donations made by community members to use towards that purchase. They are already set up with wireless internet and they have applied for a few grants to fund the purchase of laptops to help with the differentiated instruction.
When they started reassessing the school to see how to make the new classroom setup work best for the students, Bliss said they realized they were already doing a lot of the same things they will make regular next year, such as differentiated learning.
“We are building on our strengths,” said Bliss.
Next year the school will also work more closely with students from SUNY Oneonta who have been studying in their coursework about multi-age classrooms, but have never had the opportunity to see them in action.
“It will hopefully be beneficial for both,” said Bliss about working with SUNY Oneonta.

OCCS Stresses ‘Three Rs,’ But Christian Mores, Too

4-23-10

There’s Room At River Street School For ‘Spontaneity,’

By LAURA COX : ONEONTA

In 1985, a feasibility committee made up of local pastors, parents and teachers launched the Oneonta Community Christian School.
“They wanted more than just the ABCs, reading, writing, and arithmetic,” said the Rev. C. Norman Moran, who was pastor at the Main Street Baptist Church at the time and has since retired.  Parents wanted their children to receive Bible-based education and a Biblical world view, he said.
Moran had some experience with Christian schools and had been a school teacher in public schools prior to coming to Oneonta in 1979. The group approached him about its interest when he first came to Oneonta and they started meeting regularly three years prior to the school opening,
The group represented a variety of evangelical churches in the Oneonta area and they wanted to make sure it was a community-based Christian school not just under the wing of one church, this is where the name Oneonta Community Christian School originated.
“We wanted to do it right,” said Pastor Moran.
“We had no money to start the school,” said Ruth Brown, one of the school’s first teachers, who also participated on the feasibility committee. “We were totally dependent on the Lord.”
Pastor Moran said most of their meetings were comprised of prayer, “we prayed for people, resources and wisdom.”
“In the early days, school board meetings were prayer meetings,” Brown said, “its how we survived.”
The school originally located at the Main Street Baptist Church, then moved to the West Oneonta Baptist Church, later to the building at 32 Chestnut Street, and finally found its home on River Street in Oneonta 15 years ago.
“The Lord always provided a place for us to have a school,” said Brown.
The school is registered with the Association of Christian Schools International as well at New York State, so students who graduate from the K-12 school receive a New York State diploma. It remains non-denominational and has students from many different area churches represented.
School Principal and Administrator Jane Cook said the school also houses students whose families are not religious but wanted their children to learn the moral values taught at the school. The school has also become an option for parents who homeschooled their children but do not feel comfortable teaching high school subjects such as physics or upper level algebra yet still want their children to receive individualized attention.
“Our smaller class sizes allow us to have more one- to-one learning,” said Cook,
She also explained that the class sizes allow them to do field trips and hands-on learning experiences at a moment’s notice. If the class is studying ecology they can walk to the greenway and learn in the environment.
“There is a spontaneity in our teaching style, teachers are free to do that,” said Cook.
Oneonta Community Christian School tries to stay on the forefront of education for their student. They teach Latin in the junior high grades and Spanish in high school. This year the kindergarten class started learning sign language as well. They recently received a donation of 8 up-to-date computers for the computer lab and the students have been learning web design.
The school may lack a large athletic program like public schools, but they have a soccer team that had a 10-2 season against other Christian schools. For students that want to be very involved in athletics, Cook said their parents often find other outlets for them to play beside high school athletics, such as traveling and club sports.
“OCCS is a very family-oriented school. Academic excellence and spiritual development are hallmarks of our reputation,” said Cook.

Opera Guild Programs Preview Opera Season

4-23-10


COOPERSTOWN

The Glimmerglass Opera Guild is once again presenting “Talking Opera,” briefings on this summer’s performances:  Handel’s “Tolomeo,” Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” Puccini’s “Tosca” and Copland’s “The Tender Land.”

The 2010 programs will be at 7 p.m. Mondays in the Parish House of Christ Episcopal Church, 69 Fair St.  Free of charge.

The schedule is as follows:
• May 10, Dr. Fiona Dejardin, Hartwick College professor of art history, “The Tender Land.”
• May 17, Glimmerglass Opera’s General & Artistic Director Michael MacLeod will talk about “Handel, Mozart and the Early Music Movement.”
• May 24, a four-member panel of Glimmerglass Opera orchestra members, discussing how they approach the season.
• June 7, the Young American Artists Program.
• June 14, Music Director David Angus will preview the season.

A WALK ON ONEONTA’S WEST SIDE YIELDS SURPRISES

4-23-10


Jim Kevlin/AllOTSEGO.com

The joint is always jumping if the joint’s Mac’s Barbershop, 9 Oneida St., photographed during a Saturday, April 17, walking tour of Oneonta’s West End. In front, Howard Barton, Worcester, gets a trim from Mac himself.  Barber Ken Lowe, Burlington Flats, awaits a customer.  At rear, barber Mary Archibald, Portlandville, clips Vin Van Steenburg, Oneonta.

Mechanic Roger Chamberlain, right, Otego, advises alignment technician Zach Louden, Laurens, on a job at Monser Brothers, 375 Chestnut St.

Nick’s Diner  proprietor Sal Sarno whips up an omelet at the 220 Chestnut eatery.

Proprietors Louis and Maria Gatanas pack an order at the spotless Phoenix Grill, formerly Gyro Stop, 381 Chestnut.

“Great,” this table cheered, when Joe Plue, shift supervisor at Pondersosa Steakhouse, 333 Chestnut, asked, “How is everything?” At right are Connor LaMonaco, Jackie Frank and Erika Williams, all of Oneida, prospective students visiting Hartwick College.






WEST END HIGHLIGHTS
American Storage Systems

American Storage Systems has been at 330 Pony Farm Road since 1988, originally named Century Storage. American Storage Systems is a moving and storage center catering to the DIY mover. As an authorized U-Haul dealer we provide state-of-the-art moving equipment at the lowest cost: Trucks, trailers, auto-trailers, dollies and furniture pads. American Storage Systems also carries a full line of moving boxes and supplies to make your move easy. We take pride in our self-storage facility always keeping it clean, dry and secure; making improvements along the way. We look forward to working for you now and into the future. Check us out online at www.AmericanStorageSystems.com or call (607) 432-7870.

The Village Printer

The Village Printer, located at 330 Pony Farm Road, has been well known for over 20 years. The VP has become an excellent resource when doing any type of production work.  On-site graphic designers, state-of-the-art equipment and premium knowledge result in 100% costumer satisfaction.  From printing on paper and making T-shirts, to enlarging your favorite photograph, the Village Printer services all requirements, large or small. Come down and test our ability! You will love the customer service and be completely satisfied with the outcome of your personal project.  Contacts us: www.thevillageprinter.com, (607) 432-5259, sales@thevillageprinter.com

Action Lube

The Auto Repair with that HOMETOWN feel. We offer:
• AC Delco certified technicians and quality parts.
• A small line of affordable used cars.
• A comfy waiting room set up like a 60’s diner with a juke box.
• Alignments, air conditioning service, major and minor repairs.
• We offer oil changes with no appointment needed.
• Diagnostics and Evap Smoke Testing. Action Lube is located at 458 Chestnut Street.

Oneonta NAPA Auto Parts, Inc.

NAPA Auto Parts, Inc. has been established since the 1980s. Before moving to the west end NAPA Auto Parts was located on the Southside of Oneonta.
In November 1999 they were combined as one and a new building was built at 436 Chestnut St. where they are now located. NAPA Auto Parts carries a variety of auto parts and accessories.
It is Owned and operated by Vince Crounse. Oneonta NAPA Auto parts is located at 436 Chestnut Street.

The Oneonta Redemption Center

The Oneonta Redemption Center has been in business for 8 years. Jimmy bought the business in August of 2008. The redemption center is open Monday through Friday from 10am to 7pm and on Saturday from 10am to 2pm. The Oneonta Redemption Center accepts all New York State five cent containers including water bottles. The center helps local organizations with bottle drives as well as offers bulk pick up services. All containers brought to the center must be clean and cannot be crushed or have missing labels. We count customers containers at no cost.

Satellite Central

Open for more than 20 years, Satellite Central has been selling, installing, and servicing all types of Satellite TV & Internet systems as well as closed circuit security cameras, cell phone boosters, wireless internet, WiFi systems and TV antennae systems. Satellite Central is located at 321 Chestnut Street Oneonta and can be reached at 607-432- DISH
 ( 3474 )

Monser Bros.Tire & Auto Repair

With over 80 years in business, we offer the best tires and auto repair in the area. Monser Brothers’ motto is “Service you can Trust.”  Monser offers passenger tires, truck tires, farm tires, industrial tires, full automobile repair, transmissions, inspections, alignments, tune-ups, and air conditioning repairs. Monser offers a wide range of brands including Michelin, Bridgestone, General, Cooper, Yokohama, Firestone, BF Goodrich, Uniroyal, Continental, and Pirelli. Monser is open Monday thru Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturday from 8am to 1pm. Monser is located at 325 Chestnut Street.

AAA

AAA (referred to as Triple A) is organization that provides 24-hour roadside assistance, travel planning, auto pricing, buying, and maintenance services, as well as a host of insurance plans. For 100 years, member satisfaction has been the hallmark of AAA. And the company is very confident that its members will be happy with the services it provides and furthermore, offers a money-back guarantee. If at any time during the year AAA members decides that the product is not for them, the company will give them a pro-rata refund of their membership dues, exclusive of the new member admission fee. For any reason. The club also publishes “Going Places” magazine, which offers travel guides and tips. AAA is located at 195 Oneida Street, Oneonta - (607) 432-4512

West End Billiards

Bill Stone, owner of the newest West End treasure ,West End Billiards, is set to open its doors on May 1 in the basement of the Iron Chef Buffet. The new billiards operation consists of nine full size billiards tables, cue sticks (in case you don’t have your own), seating and snacks including soft drinks. Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday from 3:30pm until 11pm Saturday from 1pm to midnight  and Sunday from 1pm until 9pm. Stop down and enjoy our beautiful new facility. We can be reached at 267-4771. 
ADVERTISING

Young Pitchers Excel On Mound For CCS

4-16-10

By LAURA COX : COOPERSTOWN

This spring, young pitchers are shining on Cooperstown mounds.
In softball, CCS junior Anna Sams has taken the team to a 3-1 record as the team has charged forward into the new season. Her goal this year is to get the team a banner to hang in the gym – to do so the girls must make it to sectionals and win.
“I think softball is the only sport that doesn’t have a banner,” Sams said, adding that the team made it close last year and she thinks they are capable.
On the baseball team, sophomores Ryon Bennett and Jarrett Hotaling have both shone as starters. Their team has a 4-1 record and these two young men have each brought home wins. As freshmen, Bennett and Hotaling were both given the opportunity to pitch two varsity games and both got wins.
All three of these pitchers have something in common. They have all played since little league, they all like the position because of the control they have on the mound and they all have a specific person who has been influential in their success.
Hotaling grew up playing tee-ball.  He threw his first pitch when he was in fifth or sixth grade, he liked it and decided to keep at it, along with his other position of catcher. As a freshman he threw 87 pitches; most of them were strikes, something he is proud of.
For Hotaling, senior pitcher Kyle Liner has been the person he turns to for guidance. Hotaling catches for Liner and Liner catches for Hotaling. Liner has taught him a lot about mechanics and has been somebody to throw to, he said. The pitcher said his baseball coaches have also been influential.
His favorite part about playing pitcher, “You control the game.”
Bennett has also been playing since tee-ball, but it was his aunt Cynthia Gland who taught him how to pitch. Gland, of Hartwick, passed away in 2005 and Bennett said he plays for her.
Bennett said that pitching is hard, because “you can only control yourself and not your fielders,” and “there is a lot of pressure.”
As far as advice for younger players, Bennett said, “Go from batter to batter and don’t beat yourself up.”
“Stay away from the curveball until your older,” said Hotaling.
Sams has also played since she was in Kindergarten or first grade. Her sister who is four years ahead of her in school was a pitcher and Sams followed closely behind in her footsteps learning from her along the way.
They both learned from the same pitching coach Tom Weeks – who Sams said she is very close to. During the off season she practices at least a few times a week with her coach and plays on the STPS Ponies a travel softball team based out of Binghamton.
Sams likes pitching the best because she is in every single play.
“I enjoy the control I have of whatever is going on,” she said.
Her advice for younger players is that” it’s all about the placement of your pitches,” “it takes hard work and practice,” and “keep your head.”

‘What A Wonderful Town’

4-16-10


Sam Nader Piles Praise On Oneonta



Editor’s Note:  Former mayor and Oneonta Tigers’ promoter Sam Nader recounted his “wonderful journey” to 275 attendees at the Otsego County Chamber’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Business Saturday, April 10, at SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union Ballroom.  Nader received the annual Eugene Bettiol, Jr., Distinguished Citizen Award.

Thank you John!
When I asked him (son and former mayor John S. Nader) to introduce me, he wanted to know what I would like him to say.
I told him to just mention something good about me.  I would say he overdid it!
I want to compliment The Northern Eagle Family and all of the Budweiser people for being such great community-minded people! I am flattered to be sharing this evening with them.
Believe me, even though I did not sell beer at the ball park, in my day, I had many a Bud on you!
What a night for me!
Being introduced by my son, honored by community, AND surrounded by family and friends.
I am very pleased that my daughter Suzanne and many of my grandchildren are here.
I regret that circumstances prevented my daughter Alice and my sister Jem from being here.
I am especially happy to be joined here tonight by my closest friend. We have been friends through thick and thin for over 70 years.  George Steinbrenner said we should be in the United Nations.  Sid Levine – please stand up!
What a man!
Gene Bettiol Jr. 
I served on the FOF board with Gene and can attest to what a wonderful person he was.  He was taken away from us too fast and too early!  But in his brief years, he truly left his mark on our community!
To receive his award is a special honor which I shall always cherish.
This may be my last hurrah and so I want to tell you a little bit about this wonderful journey of mine. No one makes it alone. I’ve been lucky.  But I’ve been helped along the way by wonderful parents, five siblings and by many people in all walks of life – too numerous to mention.
But most of all, I was blessed with a loving, caring wife:  Alice supported and encouraged me in all my endeavors. She raised our children while I was out doing my thing at Bendix, politics, baseball and you name it.  Without her participation, I would not be here tonight. Alice, you’re the greatest!
As you can see, I am a firm believer in remembering my roots.  “Remember from whence you come, lest you lose sight of where you are going.”
Work.
I was lucky to have worked for a great company: Bendix Scintilla. I started work there in 1940 at 40 cents per hour.  I intended to work for a short time – one college semester – then go back to college.
So much for intentions.
I retired from Bendix as the director of purchasing in 1983 after 43 years of service.
Then came the war – The Big One – WWII.  I was inducted and took my physical in Utica.  The examiner said I had very bad eyes, but not to worry:  They would put me right up front where I wouldn’t miss a thing!
He didn’t lie to me.
I landed overseas and joined the 28th Infantry Division as a machine gunner, just in time to participate in the Battle of the Bulge.
Baseball.
When I got home from service, Oneonta had a team in the Class C Canadian-American League, The Oneonta Red Sox.  My friend and my future brother-in-law Sonny House used his influence with the club president (who, incidentally, was his uncle), and I became the public address announcer.  A short time later I was made a director. 
The league folded in 1952.  Sid and I are the only living board members of the Oneonta Red Sox.
When I became mayor in 1961, one of my goals was to bring back professional baseball.  I felt it was a good cohesive force in the community. The ‘60s were the protest years.
I was able to bring professional baseball back in 1966 as a farm team of the Red Sox.  In 1967, we affiliated with the Yankees and stayed there for 34 years.  Then came the Detroit Tigers for 11 years; then the came the flight to Norwich, Conn.  Thanks to Dick Miller, we will have a new team here in 2011.
Baseball is a great equalizer, a great fraternity.  The memories I have acquired from my 50 years of involvement will never leave me.
Politics.
Joe Molinari started me in politics in 1949 – he asked me to run for alderman in the Sixth Ward. 
I will never forget my first day of campaigning.  It was a late September morning and I began calling on my Italian friends on West Broadway. It was wine-making time, so I had to taste the Mongillo wine, the Pizza wine, the Manti wine and the Mastro wine. By the time we stopped saluting each other, I had to go home – ending my first day on the campaign trail.
Commitment to community and community service has been a genuine pleasure for me.  In my High School civics class, I was taught that civic responsibly and service were a duty, essential to good citizenship.
I believed that then and I believe it now. I have tried to follow that principle.
Oneonta.
The heart and soul of a community is not brick and mortar.  The heart and soul of a community is its inhabitants.
In my 90 years, I have travelled far and wide and met many people – some great and some not so great – but the best people I know live here in my Hometown – Oneonta, New York!
Old Blue Eyes sang “NY, NY, What a Wonderful Town.”
Well, Old Brown eyes can’t carry a tune, but I can borrow his theme and shout – “Oneonta, NY What a Wonderful Town!!!”
As long as I’m so philosophical, I want to pass along a bit of Duffy Shakespeare advice to my golfing friends – Tony Drago, John Brooks and Dick Miller.  “The longest drive matterith NOT, if thou fails to maketh the second shot”
In closing, I would like to be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and a doting grandfather who served his city and country to the best of his ability.
I want to thank everyone for making this such a memorable evening and most especially, I want to thank this community and all its people for letting me serve them.
It’s been a great ride – good night and God bless you all.

Center Street School Opens Window On Oneonta’s Past

4-16-10

By LAURA COX
Many kids dream of finding buried treasure in their own backyards or a trap door in their closet that leads to a secret room.
So imagine Center Street School students’ surprise and delight when they found out there was a time capsule enclosed in a wall of their school.
On Monday, March 8, Angelo Ignone, of Eastman Associates, the Oneonta-based contractor, worked for two hours with a hammer and chisel to find and retrieve what Center Street School Librarian Mark Parmerter believed to be hidden behind the 1960 date stone on the newer half of the building.
Parmerter had been doing some research about the school a few years ago when he found a newspaper article from 1960, when the addition to the original 1897 building was dedicated. The article described a ceremony and mentioned a time capsule had been put in place.
With the 50th birthday of the new portion of the building approaching, he thought it would be neat to wait until now to retrieve it.
On Wednesday, April 7, Center Street students laid eyes on the time capsule for the first time when the shiny copper box with the lid almost completely closed went on display in a glass case in the mezzanine outside the school library.
Parmerter and a few other administrators are the only ones who know what is inside – apart from any community members who may remember from a half-century ago.
 “It is recommended when opening a time capsule to check and make sure what is inside has not rotted before making any large announcement,” Parmerter said.   He added enticingly: “What is in it is very well preserved.”
At their usual Friday assembly on April 9, fourth-graders taught their schoolmates about time capsules and the types of things people put in them. Then on Monday, April 12, Parmerter launched a contest in the library encouraging students to guess the contents, with prizes going to the three closest guesses.
“I think there is a teacher’s handbook and a kindergarten planner,” fourth grader John Michael Mikolaicyk, 10, guessed while peering in at the copper box.
Mary Lynch, 9, also a fourth grader listed off her guesses, “A teacher’s handbook, a class list, a test someone got back and many letters.”
The contents of the 1960 time capsule will be revealed at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18 during a school-wide birthday party celebrating, among other things, the 113th anniversary of the 1897 building, the 50th birthday of the 1960 building, and the retirement of Principal John Cook after 26 years at Center Street School.
A teacher who was at Center Street School when the new portion of the building was dedicated will be giving a speech in addition to other guest speakers, a multimedia presentation about the history of the school, party games and an ice cream social.
The opened time capsule and its contents will be on display after the party until the end of the school year, when it will be placed back in the wall with items from today’s school including class photos, a copy of the Center Street School history book produced by last year’s fourth-grade class and a letter to the class of 2060.

City of The Hills

4-16-10

TAKE IT BACK: 
The annual “Take Back The Night” March is coming up at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 22, from SUNY Oneonta’s Milne Library.  A candlelight vigil to mark National Crime Victims Awareness Week.in 6:30 p.m. the following evening at Kim Muller Plaza.

KICKOFF!
The Oneonta-based, semi-pro New York Stallions football team will play its home games at Hartwick College this year, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on July 17, Aug. 14, Aug. 28 and Sept. 18. 

LIGHTS, ACTION:
 
The first annual O-Teen Film Festival is Saturday, May 1, at the Oneonta Teen Center.  Teens, ages 13-16, are invited to submit their films for judging and prizes.  For details, call 433-2009.

HISTORY DINNER
Mayor Dick Miller will speak at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society annual dinner, 6-8 p.m., Monday, April 26, at The Farmhouse at Emmons.  $30 for GOHS members; $35 for others.  Reservations due by Monday, April 19; call 432-0562.


HOMETOWN ONEONTA
Two Supermen – Kidane Tewolde, left, and Kevin Burns, OHS students – were among more than 400 runners waiting to dash up East Street in the 12th annual SADD “Stride For Safety” 5K Run/Walk Sunday, April 11.  (More photos, B-2)

Sam Nader Recounts ‘Wonderful Journey’

4-16-10

Jim Kevlin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

An elated Sam Nader, “Mr. Oneonta” if anyone is, greets well-wishers after the Otsego County Chamber’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Business Saturday, April 10, at SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union Ballroom, where the former mayor and Oneonta Tigers’ promoter received the Eugene A. Bettiol, Jr., Distinguished Citizen Award before 275 fans.  Northern Eagle Beverages Inc. was honored as NBT Bank’s Distinguished Business of the Year.

LOCALS:

4-16-10

ELECTED: Dawn Hamlin, Assistant Professor in the Educational Psychology and Counseling at SUNY Oneonta, was elected as the vice president of the New York State Council for Exceptional Children (NYSCEC).


REAPPOINTED:
Steve Garner, Assistant Professor in the Health and Physical Education department at SUNY Oneonta, was reappointed to the Health Association of New York State Task Force on Community Health in Albany.

APPROVED:
Five Hartwick College professors have been approved for tenure or promotion, effective September 1. Those granted tenure and promotion to the rank of associate professor are Lisle Dalton (Religious Studies), Vicki Howard (History), and Jeremy Wisnewski (Philosophy). In addition, Associate Professor of Accounting Priscilla Wightman was granted tenure, and Eric Johnson (Geology) was promoted to the rank of professor.

CHANCELLOR’S AWARD:
SUNY Oneonta Seniors Claire Albertson, a communication studies and art major, from Albion, Wilkin Cabrera, an English major, from the Bronx, Julie Ann Dewey, a biology major with a pre-medicine concentration, from Horse-heads, and Kelly Wasilewski, a mass communications and business economics major, from Newtown, Pa. are among a select group of State University of New York students chosen to receive the 2010 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.

UCCCA HONORS YOUNG ONEONTA ARTISTS AT HI!ART

4-16-10


Laura Cox/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

Oneonta seventh grader Michael Cheung’s artwork titled “The Chase” received an honorable mention among the 65 pieces shown at the Upper Catskill Community Council on the Arts Hi!Art show on Saturday, April 10.  The works – produced by middle and high school aged youth from across the county – were judged by Molly Swain, Kris Laguna and Doug Jamison. The show will remain in UCCCA’s Wilber Mansion Gallery through Friday, April 23.
At left, Alexandra Fisher, a senior from Oneonta shows off the clay and cloth doll she has on display.

ONEONTA STUDENT PLAYS ROLE IN HARTWICK’S ‘ONCE ON THIS ISLAND’

4-16-10

Eva Barberio, an Oneonta first grader plays Little Ti Moune in a cast including Hartwick student Emmanuella Brakye portraying Mama Euralie in Hartwick College’s musical production of the Caribbean “Little Mermaid,” “Once On This Island.” The play will be performed six times, with shows at 8 p.m. on April 16, 17, 22, and 23 and at 2 p.m. on April 18 and 25. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for students, senior citizens, Hartwick College faculty, and staff.  For reservations call 607-431-4CAP (4227) or at www.hartwick.edu/x1197.xml

DMV Commissioner Honors Devlin Sr.’s Contribution

4-16-10

Richard J. Devlin, Sr., Milford, Highway Safety Program representative with the state Department of Motor Vehicles, has received DMV Commissioner David J. Swarts’  Recognition Award. He was nominated by Jeanette Maikels, Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee director.
Devlin, father of county Sheriff Richard J. Devlin, Jr., is coordinator of the state International Drug Recognition Evaluation & Classification Program, state Task Force on Impaired Driving leader, state STOP-DWI coordinator, and coordinator of training supported by the Traffic Safety Committee.

Jill Carey Is ‘Telling Tales’ On The Radio

4-16-10

After years of open mics, writer’s nights and offbeat theater from L.A. to NYC; writer, artist and professor, Jill Carey brings a new radio show “Telling Tales”, to Oneonta’s NPR affiliate WUOW 104.7.
From 8:30 to 9 a.m. beginning Sunday, April 18th, every other Sunday, Jill spotlights a talented regional writer; who reads their favorite short story on air, followed by an interview that reveals their inspiration. Throughout “Telling Tales” radio show, Jill infuses her original stories and songs.
Jill has been a regular guest on Gary Wickham’s “Morning Show,” reading reflective tales from her illustrated books, “Debutante Without  A Dress,” “No Customer Service” and “Life Half Undone.” Her books are a candid collection of inspired poems and stories laced with humor and emotion.
On a cross country road trip last fall, Jill wondered how she could best showcase the art of spoken word, express her stories and share some of the amazing writers she has heard at obscure writer’s nights.
Her husband, Ed Michaels responded, “You should create your own radio show; it’s the perfect medium for what you do. Call it “Telling Tales.”
 For the next twenty hours, they drove nonstop from Minnesota to Oneonta, brainstorming the format for what would become first show, with the central idea that  “Telling Tales is home to the best regional storytellers you’ve never of yet.”
For more information about “Telling Tales” or to hear story and music excerpts, go to www.jillcarey.com.

To listen to the show live online visit www.wuow.org.

Bad News or Bugaboos?

4-16-10

To the Editor:

Malicious militias
With violent agendas –
Should they really scare us
Or only offend us?

WILLIAM F. ROBERTS
Otego

LETTER: Forgive Sin-ner And Sin-ee Too

4-16-10

To the Editor:
In light of the latest revelations regarding Roman Catholic priests having sexually abused children in various European counties, I wish to offer the following advice to the current pope:
Take a page from the past pope and act with true Christian charity by not only forgiving the perpetrators, but also forgiving their victims.
But please, no same-sex marriage; that would be a real sin!
IRWIN GOOEN
Emmons

Hartwick College Is On The Ball, It Proves Again

4-16-10

There’s something to be said for positive thinking.
Mayor Dick Miller, former Hartwick College president, has said he never doubted he could turn around that local gem on Oyaron Hill when he arrived here a decade ago.
And, in the face of dropping enrollments and a shrinking endowment, he did.
If succession is one of the most important tasks executives and institutions need to address, then indications are that, in the person of Margaret Drugovich, Miller’s successor, Hartwick College continues in good hands.
The latest evidence surfaced in the past few days, as Hartwick announced its Department of Nursing has launched an 18-month accelerated program whereby students can obtain a bachelor’s in nursing in short order.
(Interested?  An open house to detail the program for interested persons will be 6-8 p.m. next Tuesday, April 20, in rooms 401 and 403 of the Johnstone Science Center.)
Find a need and fill it.  That’s a formula for business success, but Hartwick College has embraced it as its own.
Given a regional and national shortage of nurses, the jobs are there, the demand for jobs is there, and Hartwick is simply expediting the connection.
“You can’t outsource a nursing job,” is how Jeanne-Marie Havener, Hartwick’s Nursing Department chair, put it.
Exactly right.
In the case of Hartwick, lightning keeps striking in the same place.  It can’t be a coincidence.
With students ever-more financially strapped in our current (and soon-ending, we can only hope) Great Recession, and tuition as through the roof as its been in recent decades, Hartwick acted.
Last year, it announced a program to allow students to obtain a prestigious Hartwick degree in just three years, saving approximately $40,000.
The program isn’t for everyone, the college cautioned.  But if a career-focused student wants to get on to, say, law school, he or she can benefit from leapfrogging a year.
Again, a need perceived, a service provided, a win and a win.
Same goes with Hartwick’s collaboration with Bassett Healthcare.  The hospital underwrites tuition; the students pledge to work for Bassett when they graduate.  Bingo.
Let’s continue to keep an eye on Hartwick College.  The lessons it’s been acting on are ones that the rest of us would be wise to heed.
Well done!

Otsego Chamber’s 2009 NBT Bank Distinguished Business

4-16-10


jim Kevlin/HOMETOWN ONEONTA

George Allen, left, vice president of sales and operations at Northern Eagle Beverages Inc., accepts the chamber’s NBT Bank Distinguished Business Award from Jamie Reynolds, NBT’s senior vice president.  In the center is Mark Grygiel of New York Central Mutual, chairman of the chamber board.

Northern Eagle Beverages staffers rising to accept the crowd’s applause are, from left, Brad Briggs, Jeff Barber, Matt Lubbers, Bryan Birdsall, Greg Post and Sean LaRose; seated is Melissa Birdsall.

NEWS IN BRIEF

4-16-10


Stallions Announce 2010 Schedule
ONEONTA – The New York Stallions semi-professional football team announced Tuesday, they will be playing their home games under the lights at Hartwick College’s Wright Stadium. Home games will kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays, July 17, Aug. 14, 28 and Sept. 18.
This season the team will compete in the Empire Football League, a 40 year old league with a rich tradition that includes a former Oneonta-based championship team in the 1970s.
“It’s a great day for Stallions football. We’re looking to bringing the tradition of football back to the city of Oneonta and we’re graciously thankful to Hartwick College for letting us play there this season. We are also thankful for the community’s support for the New York Stallions,” said Del Anthony, Stallions owner.

Pickwick’s Shuts As Owner Faces Charges
MILFORD – Pickwick’s Motorsports has closed while owner Scott D. Pickwick deals with several felony counts, including one where he sold a customer’s boat for $3,600 and provided an inaccurate bill of sale, according to the county Sheriff’s Department.
He faces 11 charges, ranging from third-degree grand larceny to altering odometers, a misdemeanor, according to the press release.
Police said he diverted $13,000 in document fees from 300 customers, and overcharged 40 customers $2,300 in DMV registration fees.
He was arraigned in Milford Town Court and was released on $3,000 bail.  He faces up to 26 years in prison, according to police.

County Hosts Land-Use Training Classes
The Otsego County Planning Department is hosting three land-use training workshops at The Meadows.  To register, call Joy Garner at 547-4225.  The sessions are 7-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 21, Addressing Housing Concerns Through Land Use Regulations.
• Wednesday, April 28, Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, and  The Effects of FEMA Flood Map Changes on Your Community.
• Wednesday, May 5, The Status of GIS Services in Otsego County, and Transportation Topics Related to Heavy Industry.

USDA Grants Support ‘Buy Local’ Efforts

Two USDA grant programs to promote “buy local” efforts are available again this year, according to the state Department of Agriculture & Markets:
• 2010 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (application due May 17), to enhance the long-term viability of specialty-crop businesses.  Minimum $30,000 for selected projects.
For more details, call (518) 457-7076, or check www.agmkt.state.ny.us/RFPS.html or contact the Department at 518-457-7076.
• Regional “Buy Local” Campaign Development Program (applications due June 3), to help promote local farm products.  $13,400 available per region.

Master Gardeners Offer pH Soil Testing

Gardeners may drop off soil samples at local libraries for a week, beginning Earth Day (Thursday, April 22) to be tested by the county Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners.
Libraries are participating in Cherry Valley, Cooperstown, Edmeston, Gilbertsville, Hartwick, Milford, Morris, Oneonta, Otego, Richfield Springs, Springfield, Unadilla and Worcester. 
A single soil test is free: soil will be tested for pH level, with results returned by early May.

News In Brief is being launched for news and items that are too detailed for a calendar item but require less than a full story.  Please send submissions to info@hometownoneonta.biz

‘Big Read’ Celebrates Thornton Wilder With Marathon Read, Play, Much More

4-16-10

By LAURA COX

The Big Read is back and this year it features Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer prize winning book, “The Bridge of San Luis Rey” and companion play, “Our Town.”
The Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center will once again play host to this National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) event which encourages communities to participate in reading a common literary work.
Janet Hurley-Quackenbush, who has been heading up events at the Foothills since January, explains the history behind the month- long event, “The Big Read was initiated by the National Endowment for the Arts in response to a NEA report from 2002 that demonstrated a decrease in the amount of literary reading in America.
“This is an opportunity to read and discuss a book, to generate excitement about reading and to wake up all of our senses and enlarge our humanity.”
This is a third annual event for the Foothills. Last year The Big Read featured “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain, and in 2008 it focused on Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mocking Bird.”
This year is different in that it includes two literary works, the book “The Bridge of San Luis Rey” and also its companion play “Our Town,” Hurley-Quackenbush said.
“Even though they appear to take place worlds apart, they are really based on the same simple subjects. They are both thought provoking and pose the same questions in regards to life and death,” Hurley-Quackenbush said describing the similarity of the two works and why they are paired together.
The Foothills has programs scheduled throughout the month in conjunction with The Big Read.
New this year is an essay contest for high school students in grades 10-12. Hurley-Quackenbush said students are asked to read the book and then write a 1000 word or less essay comparing the book to a contemporary movie or novel that deals with the same themes as “The Bridge of San Luis Rey.” Entries are due by May 6 and students interested in entering can contact the Foothills for a copy of the book.
This weekend the customary marathon read will take place at The Bright Hill Literary Center in Tredwell. Starting at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 18, participants will read the entire book aloud, in relay fashion, without interruption. A discussion and feast will conclude the event which is expected to wrap up by 6 p.m.
At 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 24 the Foothills will show the 1944 film version of “The Bridge of San Luis Rey” to be followed by discussion.
The Green Toad Bookstore has partnered with the Foothills again this year to promote The Big Read and it will host “A letter in the Mail.” At 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 29, Sam Goodyear will read a letter from Thornton Wilder written in response to a fan letter to the author after reading “The Bridge of San Luis Rey.”
The Big Read will wrap up with a production of “Our Town” put on by the Foothills. The play will be shown at 7 p.m. on Fridays, April 30 and May 7, and 2 p.m. on Saturdays, May 1 and 8 and Sundays, May 2 and 9 at the Foothills.

Driller: 3 Gas Wells To Be Tapped Soon

4-16-10


For Now, However, Production Unprofitable In Otsego County

By JIM KEVLIN : MILFORD

Gastem, which is pioneering natural-gas drilling in Otsego County, will have three wells operating this summer, according company president Orville Cole.
With concerns about waste water created by the hydro-fracking process, Cole also disclosed the wells may be “fracked” with propane instead of water.
Addressing concerns at a forum organized in connection with the fifth annual Earth Festival Saturday, April 10, he said nonetheless, “With the current regulations, there is no economical gas in Otsego County.”
Natural gas is priced at $3 per Mcf (1,000 cubic feet), Cole said, too low to make a profit.  Two years ago, when natural gas company’s “land-men” descended on Otsego County, the price was $10 per Mcf.
This was a rare occasion:  A natural-gas drilling executive speaking to a public forum locally, and both Cole and the audience made the most of it.
The natural-gas developer spoke matter-of-factly, showing a detailed Power Point that showed how a vertical bit drills through the earth, through the aquifer and into the Marcellus Shale Formation far beneath.
In addition to the Ross #1 well on Crumhorn Mountain and a second one in Cherry Valley’s Irish Hollow, Cole said the third well will depend on state Department of Environmental Conservation approval.
Gastem is drilling for Covalent Energy of Chesapeake, Va., which is seeking permits on five additional wells in the towns of Cherry Valley and Springfield.
Until the DEC approves horizontal hydro-fracking – the method most under attack by gas-drilling opponents – fracking can only be done off the end of vertical shafts, a much more limited – and, in Cole’s estimation, unprofitable – method of freeing gas from the Marcellus Shale Formation.
Since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to study the whole issue of environmental damage from hydro-fracking, it may be three years before DEC regulations will be approved.
While the focus locally has been on hydro-fracking, raising issues of proper storage and processing of the waste water, Cole said propane fracking allows a developer to reclaim 100 percent of the propane, making it more economical, the Montreal-based developer said.

GOP To Honor Jim Konstanty, Thayne, Plus

4-16-10

COOPERSTOWN

Former Republican officeholders will be honored at the 61st Annual Otsego County Republican Dinner & Gala Thursday, April 22, at The Otesaga.
The dinner will be dedicated to the memory of Cpl. Michael Mayne, who perished in service to his country in Iraq.
The former officials are county attorney James Konstanty, Oneonta; treasurer Myrna Thayne, Edmeston; county representative Scott Harrington, Oneonta; Cooperstown mayor Carol B. Waller; city Republican chairman Carol Bollinger, Oneonta; city judge Walter Terry III, Oneonta; Oneonta town councilwoman Marie Lusins-McLachlan, plus past GOP officials.
Entertainment for the evening will be Christopher Callaghan, dubbed the “Mark Russell” of Republican politics, (and Republican candidate for state comptroller in 2006.)
Tickets $50; reservations, call Dorothy Rathbun at 547-9093, e-mail elephantonmove@yahoo.com.
 COOPERSTOWN

Former Republican officeholders will be honored at the 61st Annual Otsego County Republican Dinner & Gala Thursday, April 22, at The Otesaga.
The dinner will be dedicated to the memory of Cpl. Michael Mayne, who perished in service to his country in Iraq.
The former officials are county attorney James Konstanty, Oneonta; treasurer Myrna Thayne, Edmeston; county representative Scott Harrington, Oneonta; Cooperstown mayor Carol B. Waller; city Republican chairman Carol Bollinger, Oneonta; city judge Walter Terry III, Oneonta; Oneonta town councilwoman Marie Lusins-McLachlan, plus past GOP officials from other towns.
“It can be pretty thankless work, but they have served with distinction, and we thank them for their contributions,” said GOP County Chair Sheila Ross, Fly Creek.
Entertainment for the evening will be Christopher Callaghan, dubbed the “Mark Russell” of Republican politics, (and Republican candidate for state comptroller in 2006.)
Tickets are $50 a person; for reservations, call Dorothy Rathbun at 547-9093 or e-mail elephantonmove@yahoo.com.
 COOPERSTOWN

Former Republican officeholders will be honored at the 61st Annual Otsego County Republican Dinner & Gala Thursday, April 22, at The Otesaga.
The dinner will be dedicated to the memory of Cpl. Michael Mayne, who perished in service to his country in Iraq.
The former officials are county attorney James Konstanty, Oneonta; treasurer Myrna Thayne, Edmeston; county representative Scott Harrington, Oneonta; Cooperstown mayor Carol B. Waller; city Republican chairman Carol Bollinger, Oneonta; city judge Walter Terry III, Oneonta; Oneonta town councilwoman Marie Lusins-McLachlan, plus past GOP officials from other towns.
“It can be pretty thankless work, but they have served with distinction, and we thank them for their contributions,” said GOP County Chair Sheila Ross, Fly Creek.
Entertainment for the evening will be Christopher Callaghan, dubbed the “Mark Russell” of Republican politics, (and Republican candidate for state comptroller in 2006.)
Tickets are $50 a person; for reservations, call Dorothy Rathbun at 547-9093 or e-mail elephantonmove@yahoo.com.

LETTER: Limit Finance Committee To Trustees

4-16-10
 To the Editor:
I find it curious that your reporting on the Village Board’s organizational meeting under new Mayor Joe Booan covered our discussion of the Village Gateway Committee but omitted discussion of controversial appointments to the Finance Committee.
I raised objections to the mayor’s new Finance Committee on principle because it includes, as one of three members of what is perhaps the village’s most important committee, an individual who is not currently a trustee.  This allows someone with no accountability to the public to exercise immense influence on village finances.
There are many village boards and committees that include members of the community whose expertise and hard work contribute immeasurably to Cooperstown (Water, Sewer, Parks Board to name a few).  Without these dedicated volunteers our village could not function.
However, there are important and sensitive issues of finance, personnel and public safety that have traditionally been handled by trustee committees comprised only of elected officials and staff.
Trustees are sworn to act in the best interest of the village, and they can be held accountable publicly to the residents who elect them.  We’re not experts on every topic we must make decisions on, but our government is not supposed to be run by experts. It’s supposed to be run by elected officials who represent the residents and are answerable to them.
The role of the Finance Committee is to make recommendations to the Board of Trustees on what is arguably our most important responsibility, the allocation of financial resources.
The new Finance Committee consists of two trustees with a total of one year of board experience between them, and Eric Hage, who is no longer on the board and is not accountable to anyone. Despite my respect for the mayor’s right to make appointments, I find myself unable to support this choice.
During our three years together on the board, Eric and I often disagreed on issues, but I appreciated all that he brought to the table, and I like and respect him personally. But he’s not a trustee now, and I find his appointment to the Finance Committee troubling.
The majority of the board disagrees with me, but I feel the appointment of a non-trustee to the Finance Committee is inappropriate.
LYNNE MEBUST
Village Trustee
Cooperstown

Austerity Budgets Firm Up

4-16-10

COOPERSTOWN

In an austerity year, Cooperstown’s municipal and school budgets are coming into harrowing focus.
• The village trustees have approved a tentative budget of $3,248,668, a 4.4 percent increase in the general fund, reflecting 3 percent tax increase over this year.  But Mayor Joe Booan had scheduled another meeting for 5 p.m. Thursday, April 15, at 22 Main, to take another look at it.
• The Cooperstown Central school board adopted a tentative 2010-11 budget Wednesday, April 7, which eliminates the equivalent of 9.9 positions (and adds 1.6 others back in).  While the $15,965,502 proposal is 3.5 percent below this year, it would raise taxes 5.8 percent.

In an interview, Booan declined to give details before sharing them with trustees, but said he has asked Village Treasurer Mary Ann Henderson “to present a couple of scenarios.”
The trustees are required by state law to approve a budget by May 1, so Booan said there is still time for additional meetings before approving a final document.
The April 7 school board meeting was preceded by a 45-minute session where public input was solicited, and 15 speakers asked specific question on a range of particulars.
The budget hearing is at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at the cafeteria, with another Tuesday, May 12 at the Rotary Club.  The budget vote is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 18.

Gastem Set To Drill 3 Wells By Summer

4-16-10


Exploration To Become Exploitation


By JIM KEVLIN : MILFORD

Gastem, which is pioneering natural-gas drilling in Otsego County, will have three wells operating this summer, according company president Orville Cole.
With concerns about waste water created by the hydro-fracking process, Cole also disclosed the wells may be “fracked” with propane instead of water.
Addressing concerns at a forum organized in connection with the fifth annual Earth Festival Saturday, April 10,  he said nonetheless, “With the current regulations, there is no economical gas in Otsego County.”
Natural gas is priced at $3 per Mcf (1,000 cubic feet), Cole said, too low to make a profit.  Two years ago, when natural gas company’s “land-men” descended on Otsego County, the price was $10 per Mcf.
This was a rare occasion:  A natural-gas drilling executive speaking to a public forum locally, and both Cole and the audience made the most of it.
The natural-gas developer spoke matter-of-factly, showing a detailed Power Point that showed how a vertical bit drills through the earth, through the aquifer and into the Marcellus Shale Formation far beneath.
In addition to the Ross #1 well on Crumhorn Mountain and a second one in Cherry Valley’s Irish Hollow, Cole said the third well will depend on state Department of Environmental Conservation approval.
Gastem is drilling for Covalent Energy of Chesapeake, Va., which is seeking permits on five additional wells in the towns of Cherry Valley and Springfield.
Until the DEC approves horizontal hydro-fracking – the method most under attack by gas-drilling opponents – fracking can only be done off the end of vertical shafts, a much more limited – and, in Cole estimation, unprofitable – method of freeing gas from the Marcellus Shale Formation.
Since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to study the whole issue of environmental damage from hydro-fracking, it may be three years before DEC regulations will be approved.
While the focus locally has been on hydro-fracking, raising issues of proper storage and processing of the waste water, Cole said propane fracking allows a developer to reclaim 100 percent of the propane, making it more economical, the Montreal-based developer said.
Other speakers were Erik Miller, executive director, Otsego County Conservation Association; Lou Allstadt, Cooperstown, retired Mobil executive, and Mary Jo Long, a lawyer and Afton Town Board member.

COOPERSTOWN AND AROUND

4-16-10


Mold May Move Police Department

COOPERSTOWN


The village Police Department is looking for temporary quarters after it was determined there is an unsafe level of mold in the 22 Main headquarters.
Police Chief Diana Nicols Tuesday, April 13, was inspecting space in the county complex on upper Main to determine if it would be satisfactory shortterm.
Mayor Joe Booan said police may have to move for 2-3 months while the mold is eradicated.



DRIVER’S ED:  CCS will be able to offer drivers’ ed this summer, thanks to contributions from the Student  Council and the schools’ SADD chapter.  Participants will pay $225.

MOTHER HONORED: Sharon Bierria, mother of SUNY Delhi student and stabbing victim Tyshawn Bierria, will be honored at 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 16, in Bassett Hall by Bassett Healthcare’s Center for Donation & Transplant.

The Freeman’s Journal
The veggies were as big as human beings at the fifth annual Earth Festival Saturday, April 10, at Milford Central School.  They include a carrot (Jim Renckens) and an ear of corn (his wife Polly), of Richfield Springs.

PLAY FIRST, Run Later

4-16-10

Laura Cox/The Freeman’s Journal

Waiting for the Walk for Autism to begin Saturday, April 10, at Glimmerglass State Park, Luke Edmonds, 3, Cherry Valley, and the rest of the kids didn’t waste any time waiting:  Let’s play!

Allie Barnhart, 3, of Cherry Valley leans into dad Ryan as Kelly Prince pins on her number.

Reilly Mooney, 6, of Cooperstown, decorates her shirt for the walk.

LOCALS

4-16-10


MARKS 70TH:  
Sandy Calhoun, retired supervisor of radiology, Bassett Healthcare, celebrated her 70th birthday on March 8.  She winters at The Villages, Apache Wells, Mesa, Ariz., where Charlie and Barb Michaels of Fly Creek snapped this photo at the Ceramics Club.

UofR HONOREES: 
Two students from Otsego County were on the Dean’s List at the University of Rochester for the fall semester:
• Meredith Ann Doubleday, a freshman classics’ major.  The CV-S graduate is daughter of Fred and Louise Doubleday, Richfield Springs.
• Adam Richman, a junior biology major.  A CCS graduate, he is son of Jonathan and Jenny Richman, Cooperstown.

FISH STUDY: 

SUNY Cobleskill Fisheries & Aquaculture senior Joseph Lydon of Barrytown presented his findings on “Catch Per Unit Effort Measures of Abundance Overestimate Otsego Lake Walleye Population” at the SUNY Faculty Senate’s showcase of scholarly posters on Tuesday, April 13, at the Empire State Plaza’s Legislative Office Building in Albany,  Lydon marked and recaptured walleyes to determine the number of adult fish in Otsego Lake.

100 Friends Honor Mayor Waller In Testimonial At Templeton Hall

4-16-10


COOPERSTOWN

A hundred friends and wellwishers gathered at Templeton Hall Saturday evening, April 10, to honor Mayor Carol B. Waller on her retirement.
State Sen. Jim Seward, R-Milford, read proclamations from the state Senate and the General Assembly.
Speakers included Village Clerk Teri Barown, who thanked the four-term mayor for her support.
“This, for me, has been a dream job,” said Barown.
Police Chief Diana Nicols also spoke.
With the recent election, Waller ended 16 years in village office, eight as a trustee and eight as mayor.
She was mayor during tumultuous 2007, when the village celebrated its bicentennial, and also hosted 84,000 baseball fans at the inductions of Cal Ripken and Tony Gwynn into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

STAMP CLUB RESUMES MEETINGS

4-16-10

Leatherstocking Stamp Club members listen to Al Keck’s description of his 1940’ era first-day covers.  From left are Lin Bissell, Keck, Carl Johansen, Dylan Snyder and Peter Craig.  The club meets at 7 p.m., the first Tuesday of each month at the Tillapaughs, 28 Pioneer St.

DMV Commissioner Honors Devlin Sr.’s Contribution

4-16-10

Richard J. Devlin, Sr., Milford, Highway Safety Program representative with the state Department of Motor Vehicles, has received DMV Commissioner David J. Swarts’  Recognition Award. He was nominated by Jeanette Maikels, Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee director.
Devlin, father of county Sheriff Richard J. Devlin, Jr., is coordinator of the state International Drug Recognition Evaluation & Classification Program, state Task Force on Impaired Driving leader, state STOP-DWI coordinator, and coordinator of training supported by the Traffic Safety Committee.

Konstanty, Thayne Among Honorees At GOP Fete

4-16-10

COOPERSTOWN

Former Republican officeholders will be honored at the 61st Annual Otsego County Republican Dinner & Gala Thursday, April 22, at The Otesaga.
The dinner will be dedicated to the memory of Cpl. Michael Mayne, who perished in service to his country in Iraq.
The former officials are county attorney James Konstanty, Oneonta; treasurer Myrna Thayne, Edmeston; county representative Scott Harrington, Oneonta; Cooperstown mayor Carol B. Waller; city Republican chairman Carol Bollinger, Oneonta; city judge Walter Terry III, Oneonta; Oneonta town councilwoman Marie Lusins-McLachlan, plus past GOP officials from other towns.
“It can be pretty thankless work, but they have served with distinction, and we thank them for their contributions,” said GOP County Chair Sheila Ross, Fly Creek.
Entertainment for the evening will be Christopher Callaghan, dubbed the “Mark Russell” of Republican politics, (and Republican candidate for state comptroller in 2006.)

Tickets are $50 a person; for reservations, call Dorothy Rathbun at 547-9093 or e-mail elephantonmove@yahoo.com.

A TRADITION LIVES

4-16-10


Jim Kevlin/The Freeman’s Journal

This year’s CCS Ruggles’ Prize finalists are, front row from left, Emily Brown, Autumn Arthurs, Emily Senif, Ann Cannon, Julia Levandowski, Molly Pearlman; second row, from left, Sean Sansevere, John Gilbert, David Bonderoff, Andrian Lynch, Chris Satriano, Natalie Grigoli and Christen Dutkowsky.


Routine Roller-Coaster Ride Anything But

Editor Note:  This essay, by CCS junior Natalie Grigoli, won the Ruggles’ Prize for 2009-10.  She and other finalists were honored at an assembly Thursday, April 8.  Named in honor of William Ruggles, Cooperstown’s first school superintendent, it has been presented annually for 113 years.

The most common cause of concussions are sporting accidents; a foot to the head, a shove from an opposing hockey player, and so on.  But I stand before you today to explain how this common concept does not apply to me.
No, I am here to tell you how nine years ago I received a concussion on my first rollercoaster ride.
Now let’s take a step back, to the Natalie Grigoli of third grade. Not many of you remember her, or at least I hope you don’t.  But I’ll give you a tiny reminder.
Awkwardly tall for a 7-year-old, still clinging to baby fat, and yes, in the middle of her Afro phase. Much like now, the tiniest things excited me. You can only imagine my pleasure when my parents decided to take our family to Great Escape in Lake George.
Of course, when we got there we rode all the baby rides first; my parents didn’t think my sisters and I could handle anything else.
But while we were sitting down for lunch looking at the park map, I saw the greatest two dimensional contraption shining out at me like a beacon.
It went by the name of The Comet, and I knew that before that day was over I would ride that ride. 
It took some serious quarreling and peer pressure but I finally got my older sister, Roseanne, to agree to ride with me.
Christina was still a youngling, and my mom wouldn’t even ride a chairlift, let alone a rollercoaster, so my father took jubilant me and hesitant Roseanne to the ride.
I’ll never forget the feeling of joy, ecstasy, and awe as we neared the ride, its bright metallic colors flashing in the sunlight, bedazzling and vivid as it blinded my young eyes.
As we settled ourselves into the rickety carts and pressed the bar down over our laps, my whole life was suddenly complete.
Roseanne was gingerly trying to press the bar down tighter. “I don’t think it’s secure enough,” she kept saying.  But I wasn’t paying her any attention, for I was about to become the world’s most daring 7-year-old.
Slowly the ride started, my heart leapt, and I squirmed with intense anticipation.
When we finally reached the top, I saw that everyone around me had their hands straight up in the air.
Roseanne was gripping the restraint bar, and I remember thinking, “Hey, she might not, but I’m going to have the ultimate rollercoaster experience!”
Throwing my hands up, I ironically ruined my chances of having any experience whatsoever. All in the blink of an eye my cart unexpectedly jerked, thrusting my whole body sideways, causing my head (Afro and all) to make complete contact with the side of my cart.
The rest of the rollercoaster ride must be told in Roseanne’s perspective, seeing as how she was the only conscious person in the cart.
Based on her description, once my face made contact, my nose erupted like Mount  Vesuvius.  Only, instead of covering Pompeii, I managed to bleed all over the entire railway. This was made possible by my flailing body; I might as well have been a Raggedy-Anne doll the way I was moving.
Roseanne was so nervous it took my whole body slamming into her side for her to notice my unconsciousness. Unfortunately for Roseanne, she was wearing her new white blouse; after the ride, Roseanne was wearing her new red blouse. I was spurting precious fluids everywhere, and this made enough of a commotion to get my Dad’s attention from the cart ahead of us.
What happened next is something that I will never forgive myself for missing. Apparently my father, realizing I was hurt turned himself around in his cart, stood up on the rollercoaster, hooked his legs onto the railing of his cart, and attempted to get into my cart. It has never ceased to amaze me that I missed my father performing gymnastic moves on a moving rollercoaster.
My first lucid thought and full moment of realization was about five seconds before the ride finished. Like a true adolescent, my first thought was, “Oh my God, I’m bleeding in public and people are going to look at me!” And, whoa, did people look!
As soon as everyone in line learned that I had shut the ride down for two hours, I was boo-ed, yelled at, and still stared at. To all the jerks who were mad at me, I went back and rode The Comet again a few years ago, and believe me you weren’t missing out; it wasn’t even good!
Of course, getting off the ride was a little different from getting on. Before the ride I was delighted; afterwards I was horrified.  Before, my Mom was just freaking out about nothing; after, she had a legitimate reason to freak out.
Everyone wanted to know how this could’ve happened, and my Dad kept asking me, “Natalie, were you holding on?”
And like a good child I told my Dad the truth: “Of course I was holding on. I’m not an idiot!”

EDITORIAL: To Err On Side Of Inclusion Is The Way To Go

4-16-10

This spring’s village elections signalled the Cooperstown electorate wants a kindler, gentler more unified approach to charting our future.
That said, it took no longer than the village board’s April 5 reorganizational meeting for the first divisive issue to surface; the first of few, it can only be hoped.
In recent years, Mayor Carol B. Waller’s appointments were simply rubber-stamped.  New Mayor Joe Booan’s effort to add advisory members to trustees’ committees were disputed:  former trustee Eric Hage to the Finance Committee (4-2 in favor), and Cooperstown Youth Baseball’s David Borgstrom to the Village Gateway Committee (4-2 against).
At the second meeting with Booan presiding, three more appointments – Ted Hargrove to Adopt-A-Site, Nancy Morton to Human Resources and Milo V. Stewart, Jr., to Public Safety – by 4-2 margins.
The two consistant “nays” were Trustee Katz, who fell far short in his bid for mayor against Booan, and Trustee Mebust, who kept her seat by a slim margin.
Let’s take the case of Borgstrom, (the only one who was actually denied a seat, when Trustees Monie and Weiller joined the nays).
As CYB president, he organized agitation against Village Gateway plans that would have absorbed Beanie Ainslie Field, into the planned parking lot.
That, it was argued, disqualifies Borgstrom from helping decide what final form the long-stalled Village Gateway will take.
Let’s look at it another way. 
Perhaps if Borgstrom had been at the table from the beginning – after all, the CYB had a stake in plans that threatened a fine facility developed by decades of  dedicated volunteerism – the plan could have accommodated all parties.
If all stakeholders are brought to the table at the beginning, you avoid problems down the road.
That trustee committees are for trustees only is likewise questionable.
For years, the village Planning Board had historic preservationists sitting in as ad hoc members, providing expertise other board members didn’t happen to have.
Hage has been elbows-deep in village finances for years.  Hargrove, a long-time downtown merchant, has proved his interest in the trees he’s tended and flowers planted in front of TJ’s & The Homeplate Restaurant for years.  Nancy Morton is a retired county civil-service expert.  Stewart founded the pedestrian-safety committee.
If executive sessions are called, the ad-hoc members simply excuse themselves.
Given the margin of Booan’s victory, the trustees should give the new mayor leeway to try new approaches.  It’s a new day.
What’s heartening is the new mayor’s effort to bring everyone interested in the village’s future under the same big tent.
Just because people come at the same problem from different perspectives doesn’t mean they aren’t  people of good will.  It certainly doesn’t make them enemies.
Mayor Booan’s inclusive approach is a promising one, and shouldn’t be hindered simply out of contrariness.

LETTER: Good Teaching Requires Good Discipline

4-16-10

To the Editor:
The term is “in loco parentis,” meaning instead or in place of the parent. The concept has been handed down as English common law and has secured a place in our schools since colonial times. Over time the courts have interpreted, modified and other wise tweaked the idea, usually in respect to student’s rights. But the basic concept survives. The school assumes the legal and moral responsibilities of the parent.
Responsibilities that include not only a level of control and discipline, but also the protection of the student within the school environment. This imperative also applies to the classroom teacher who is in the unique position of being able to observe their students on a daily basis.
The first part of teaching is obviously the transferring of subject matter. The second part, without which effective instruction is all but impossible, is the teacher’s ability to monitor and manage the classroom dynamics occurring as the day goes on. It is here that the beginning of harassment and bullying can be seen and effectively intervened before it gets out of hand.
As a student – albeit a very long time ago – and more recently as a teacher, I have seen bullying escalate into a virtual art form. Spiteful, nasty, and hurtful remarks have become easy school room banter, aided and exemplified by movies and late night TV.
Like gun violence, bullying is a societal impoverishment which places even more importance on the concept of in loco parentis as practiced by a more courageous classroom teacher along with the support of an administration willing to do whatever is required to resolve the issue up to and including parental confrontation.
ROBERT O’CON
Cooperstown

NEWS IN BRIEF

4-16-10

Planned Since ’03, Bassett Begins Work To Add 118 Parking Spaces
COOPERSTOWN – Construction is expected to start by month’s end on 118 new parking spaces around Bassett Hospital’s Bassett Hall (64 spaces) and Harrison House (54).  Completion is expected by August.
Under consideration since 2003, the project includes Bassett upgrading village storm drains and water lines in the vicinity.
The tennis courts located behind Bassett Hall will be removed, and a retaining wall built at the Susquehanna Avenue end to mitigate noise and headlight intrusion on neighboring houses.  At Harrison House, the spaces will be on either side of the building, and the landscaping out front will be renewed.

Pickwick’s Shuts As Owner Faces Charges
MILFORD – Pickwick’s Motorsports has closed while owner Scott D. Pickwick deals with several felony counts, including one where he sold a customer’s boat for $3,600 and provided an inaccurate bill of sale, according to the county Sheriff’s Department.
He faces 11 charges, ranging from third-degree grand larceny to altering odometers, a misdemeanor, according to the press release.
Police said he diverted $13,000 in document fees from 300 customers, and overcharged 40 customers $2,300 in DMV registration fees.
He was arraigned in Milford Town Court and was released on $3,000 bail.  He faces up to 26 years in prison, according to police.

County Hosts Land-Use Training Classes
The county County Planning Department is hosting three land-use training workshops at The Meadows.  To register, call Joy Garner at 547-4225.  The sessions are 7-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 21, Addressing Housing Concerns Through Land Use Regulations.
• Wednesday, April 28, Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, and  The Effects of FEMA Flood Map Changes on Your Community.
• Wednesday, May 5, The Status of GIS Services in Otsego County, and Transportation Topics Related to Heavy Industry.

USDA Grants Support ‘Buy Local’ Efforts

Two USDA grant programs to promote “buy local” efforts are available again this year, according to the state Department of Agriculture & Markets:
• 2010 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (application due May 17), to enhance the long-term viability of specialty-crop businesses.  Minimum $30,000 for selected projects.
For more details, call (518) 457-7076, or check www.agmkt.state.ny.us/RFPS.html or by contacting the Department at 518-457-7076.
• Regional “Buy Local” Campaign Development Program (applications due June 3), to help promote local farm products.  $13,400 available per region.

Master Gardeners Offer pH Soil Testing
Gardeners may drop off soil samples at local libraries for a week, beginning Earth Day (Thursday, April 22) to be tested by the county Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners.
Libraries are participating in Cherry Valley, Cooperstown, Edmeston, Gilbertsville, Hartwick, Milford, Morris, Oneonta, Otego, Richfield Springs, Springfield, Unadilla and Worcester. 
For a $3 charge, soil will be tested for pH level, with results returned by early May.

News In Brief is being revived, replacing Area Briefs, for news and items that are too detailed for a calendar item but require less than a full story.  Please send submissions to  info@thefreemansjournal.com

LETTER: At Cooperstown Elementary, People Care

4-16-10


To the Editor:
I had the pleasure of attending the Cooperstown Elementary School’s Friday Finale on April 9, which happened to be performance day for the teachers whom the students chose to be their “CCS American Idols.” 
There have been a lot of negative things said about the CCS schools lately, including several of my own letters to the school board expressing my anger that a fantastic third-grade teacher, Erik Hanson, is being laid off simply because of his lack of seniority. 
But I’d like to put that aside for the moment and focus on how really great the teachers and principal at the elementary school are. 
Ms. Gorman sang “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with a lot of heart – the children clearly love their principal and her great spirit.
Second-grade teacher Kim Wooden dedicated the song, “I Will Be There,” to all of the students, bringing tears to my eyes when she reminded them, “we teachers will always be here for you, even when things seem difficult.”
Phys-ed teacher Mr. Lippit roused the crowd with thoughts of chocolate with his spirited “The Candy Man.”
And I was very impressed that both first-grade teacher Lindsey Hayes and second-grade teacher David Bertram involved their classes with their performances, which really goes to show that these teachers are truly dedicated to the children in their classes, and seek every opportunity to create “teaching moments.”
The entire show was the brainchild of Mrs. Wrench and her “lunch bunch” students, and they should be commended for producing such a wonderful day, full of school spirit and teacher-student camaraderie, and raising some money for the school at the same time.  Well done!
KIM JASTREMSKI
Cooperstown