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Thursday, December 30, 2004
Report shows fewer systems
Officials have reduced the estimate of the number of septic systems around Otsego Lake as the inventory begun this summer nears completion. The inventory of onsite wastewater treatment systems within 500 feet of the Otsego Lake or 100 feet of one of the lake's tributary streams, was started this summer and is now almost 85 percent complete, according to a report from Win McIntyre presented to the watershed supervisory committee earlier this month.
Commissioner calls for change
FLY CREEK-Earlier this month, Mark Weir won the election for Fly Creek Fire District Commissioner over current Commissioner, Jim Hotaling, by a vote of 99 to 15 in one of the largest voter turnouts in recent memory.
Weidemann dies in auto accident
The long-time owner of Pioneer Photo in Cooperstown died last Thursday afternoon when his car struck the rear of a manure spreader being towed by a tractor on state Route 28 in Milford, according to Otsego County sheriff's deputies.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Water tower may be cell tower site
A Clifton Park-based communications company has expressed ongoing interest in bringing better cell phone service to the Cooperstown area. During Monday night's village board meeting, a letter from Shane Newell, a property and zoning specialist with Tower Communications was discussed briefly. Newell attended a planning board last month to talk about the possibility of locating a wireless communications tower within the village to fill a gap in service in the area.
Legislation would create lake district
RICHFIELD SPRINGS — Senator James Seward announced a plan last week that would allow New York State to soak up some of the cost of addressing the chronic flooding problems around Canadarago Lake.
Board, teachers reach agreement
The Cooperstown Central School Board of Education and the Faculty Association reached a tentative contract agreement Tuesday evening.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Town reviews new regulations for short term rentals
FLY CREEK - The Otsego town board last week reviewed a draft of proposed local legislation aimed at regulating short-term rentals in the town. The town board had hoped to schedule a public hearing on the amendment to the town's land use law in January, but decided to wait to have time to refine some of the language, according to town supervisor Tom Breiten.
ATM impacts are more than small change
The village planning board came close to triggering the mechanism that would require Key Bank to complete a draft environmental impact statement for its proposal to establish a drive-up ATM.
Residents, consultants develop goals for Milford
MILFORD — Nearly 20 Milford residents met last week with the village's Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee to help develop goals they hope will lead them to realize their Vision Statement.
Thursday, December 9, 2004
Board, teachers go to mediation later this month
The Cooperstown Central School Faculty Association and the Board of Education have taken one step closer to reaching an agreement on salary contracts for this year. Both sides have been awaiting the arrival of a representative from the Public Employee Relations Board to help them find some middle ground after the CCS Faculty Association declared an impasse. Negotiations on this contract have lasted over two years.
County receives increased state snowmobile funding
Otsego County was awarded $114,675 in state grants to pay for snowmobile trail maintenance and signs last week. The money allotted to the county this year is almost three times the amount that was granted last year.
ZBA approves special permit
The village zoning board of appeals approved an application for a special use permit for a three-bedroom tourist accommodation at 20 Leatherstocking Street during its meeting Tuesday afternoon.
Thursday, December 2, 2004
Red Sox, Tigers are in HOF game
The World Champion Boston Red Sox will play the Detroit Tigers in the 2005 Hall of Fame game set for Monday, May 23, on historic Doubleday Field. The only in-season exhibition game held during the Major League Baseball championship season, the Hall of Fame Game has been scheduled annually since 1940, matching teams from across the majors at the 10,000-seat stadium.
Grants to fund local projects
Seven area organizations and municipalities received state grants Tuesday morning during a brief presentation at the Cooperstown Fire Department. Senator James Seward, who has represented the area for the last 18 years, made the grant announcements.
Wednesday, November 26, 2004
Doubleday Field receives honor
Doubleday Field head groundskeeper Joe Harris has again proven he has some of the best turf around. Harris has cared for the historic field for 15 seasons and this year he and the historic field won a first place award from the Sports Turf Managers Association.
Boys seeking ring's owner
Last August, Alex Mahlum, a paper carrier for the Daily Star found a wedding ring lying on the tarmac of Grove Street, just north of the intersection of Maple and Grove Streets.
Bistro to serve holiday dinners
The Hoffman Lane Bistro will be giving back to the community this Thanksgiving, serving up holiday dinners to nearly 45 families in Otsego County.
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Trustees approve parking permit
The board of trustees approved a special use permit that would allow the Clara Welch Thanksgiving Home to create an off-site employee parking lot on Grove Street. The parking lot would be at 58 Grove, the former location of Paraco Gas. The property is L-shaped and the entrance and exit would be off Spring Street.
Board, teachers are deadlocked
The Cooperstown Central School Faculty Association and the Board of Education are still deadlocked in their contract negotiations and are currently awaiting arrival of a representative from the Public Employee Relations Board to help them find some middle ground.
CCS board works to shape project
The Cooperstown Central School Board of Education met last week to review the recommendations made by their Steering Committee relating to the schools proposed Capital Project.
Thursday, November 11, 2004
Springfield budget holds line on taxes
The Town of Springfield passed its budget for 2005 unanimously Monday night. The town budgeted $444,000 for next year, $1,400 less than it budgeted for 2004. Town Supervisor Tom Armstrong said the budget would have been lower had it not been for the rise in oil prices and the increased percentage the town was mandated to pay towards the NYS retirement system.
Foundation aims to enhance offerings
A new foundation with a goal to enhance the educational offerings at Cooperstown Central School will soon begin a fundraising campaign aimed at creating an endowment for the school.
Village to seek another concert
Mayor Carol Waller plans to appoint a committee Monday night during the board of trustees' meeting which will begin a search for a promoter and act for another concert at Doubleday Field.
Thursday, November 4, 2004
ZBA fails to reach decision on B&B
The zoning board of appeals approved one three-room tourist accommodation and failed to reach a decision on another during its meeting Monday. The board approved the special permit application from Patricia and Steve D'Esposito to expand their bed and breakfast at 132 Chestnut Street from two-rooms to three. It is the first special permit approved since the law changed to allow more than two rooms for tourist accommodations.
County, election goes to President
President George W. Bush held the vote in Otsego County, raking in 12,590 votes, while democratic challenger Sen. John Kerry collected 11,404 votes, according to early vote tallies Tuesday evening.
CCS board plans project review
The Cooperstown Central School Board plans to hold a work session next week to review the progress of its Capital Project.
Thursday, October 28, 2004
Students learn circus skills
MILFORD — The circus is in town at the Milford Central School. The National Circus Project, a non-profit cultural arts organization promoting student participation in school arts and physical education activities, has stopped in Milford, kicking off its week-long stay with a circus performance Monday morning.
Milford creates vision statement
MILFORD — The village of Milford's Visioning Project Steering Committee met last week to put the finishing touches on its vision statement.
Inn at Cooperstown has expansion plans
The planning board got a first look at a plan Tuesday afternoon to recreate a section of the Inn at Cooperstown that was demolished in the late 1950s. The addition will add eight rooms to the inn's current 17.
Thursday, October 21, 2004
Board approves hotel status for Landmark
After listening to comment during a second public hearing Monday night, the board of trustees approved a special permit request from the Landmark Inn to become a 12-room hotel. The special permit does not come without restrictions, however. During discussions following the hearing, board members decided to place conditions on the permit which include, annual renewal of the special permit, no further expansion, and no bar or restaurant which serves the public.
Future of library's online catalog uncertain
The Cooperstown Public Library may have to ditch its computers and return to the old-fashioned card catalog system.
Thursday, October 21, 2004
Board approves hotel status for Landmark
After listening to comment during a second public hearing Monday night, the board of trustees approved a special permit request from the Landmark Inn to become a 12-room hotel. The special permit does not come without restrictions, however. During discussions following the hearing, board members decided to place conditions on the permit which include, annual renewal of the special permit, no further expansion, and no bar or restaurant which serves the public.
Future of library's online catalog uncertain
The Cooperstown Public Library may have to ditch its computers and return to the old-fashioned card catalog system.
Thursday, October 7, 2004
Board tells Bassett to include garage
The village planning board told Bassett Hospital that it will have to include a parking structure as one of the alternatives to its parking proposal in the draft environmental impact statement the healthcare institution is about to begin.
Glimmerglass Learning Center now open
The Glimmerglass Creative Learning Center held an open house Friday evening to kick off its first season of classes, which started this week.
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Energy policy may benefit wind project
CHERRY VALLEY - A renewable energy policy adopted by the New York State Public Service Commission last week will help stimulate the market for alternative, or green market for energy. The policy is designed to increase the proportion of energy from renewable sources that is generated in the state from 19 percent to at least 25 percent by 2013. One of the beneficiaries of the new policy may be Reunion Power, which is currently in the early stages of developing a wind energy project in Cherry Valley.
Walking tours focus on ghosts
The streets of Cooperstown will be getting spookier this October. The Ghost Tours of Cooperstown, featured as a part of Cooperstown Walking Tours, are set to kick off Friday and will run more frequently than they have in the past, said Bruce Markusen, a Ghost Tour guide.
Cossa resigns as Opera director
Robert Schlather, chairman of the Board of Trustees of Glimmerglass Opera, has announced that Joanne Cossa, the company's general director, has tendered her resignation due to family health concerns which have kept her from her post for much of the past month. Her resignation is effective immediately.
Thursday, September 23, 2004
Village faces increasing loss of trees
The combination of old age and disease will claim an increasing number of the village's almost 5,000 trees in the coming years. The result could be a starkly different look to what are now shady, tree-lined, village streets. In her tree committee report during Monday night's village board meeting, trustee Grace Kull said the village is experiencing problems with a canker that has attacked a number of the younger trees planted in recent years. At the same time, she said, many of the village's older trees are reaching maturity and must be removed.
First annual Pumpkinfest is next weekend
The Chamber of Commerce is set to kick off its first annual Pumpkinfest early next month. The festival will feature giant pumpkins, some weighing more than 1,000 pounds. Giant gourds and watermelons will also be on hand.
No decision on hotel status for Landmark Inn
The board of trustees listened Monday night to concerns about a special permit application that would allow the Landmark Inn to become a hotel.
Thursday, September 16, 2004
Board reviews new gravel mine
HARTWICK - The Hartwick town planning board gave a ten-acre gravel mine a negative declaration during its environmental review of the project Tuesday night. The negative declaration in the State Environmental Quality Review process indicates the planning board did not believe the project would have a significant adverse impact on the environment. The mine would be located off Route 28, south of Pop's Place drive-in, on an 80-acre parcel owned by the applicant Scott Ubner, of Fly Creek.
CCS hopes smart classroom means smarter students
Classrooms, along with their students, seem to be getting smarter in Cooperstown. Biology teacher Amy Kukenberger, in an effort to keep up to speed with her cyber-savvy students, has traded in her chalkboard for a virtual computer desktop. Kukenberger is heading a pilot program this year for the Cooperstown Central School system, integrating a new interactive presentation manager into her classroom.
Temperatures up over absence of smoke detectors
SPRINGFIELD - Councilman Jim Willsey ignited an argument at Monday night's Springfield town council meeting.
Thursday, September 9, 2004
B&B application tests law's new requirements
An application before the zoning board of appeals will provide the first test for new requirements in the zoning law for tourist accommodations. One of those provisions - the annual $100 fee per sleeping room - could end up in litigation. Tuesday afternoon, the zoning board appeals began its review of a special permit application from Steve and Patricia D'Esposito, owners of the Rose and Thistle B&B at 132 Chestnut Street.
Presutti settles wetlands issue
HARTWICK SEMINARY — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has accepted a settlement offer from Cooperstown Dreams Park CEO Louis Presutti in regard to a wetlands violation which occurred at the park.
Hall, business owners agree season a success
Downtown business owners agree with the Hall of Fame: this summer season was about as successful as last.
Thursday, September 2, 2004
Committee asks about need for elementary gym
The need for a new gynasium at the elementary school was questioned last week during a meeting for the Cooperstown Central Schools Steering committee in charge of reviewing the proposed $18 million capital project and recommending the project's scope.
Hartwick water project delayed
HARTWICK - Town officials said Monday night that it is likely construction on the $1.7 million upgrade to the Hartwick water system will be delayed until spring.
Milford officials explain impact of new water well
MILFORD - Milford residents were briefed last week about the village's proposal to drill a new water well in Wilber Park. The board of trustees has been working on finding a second water source since high levels of nitrates were found in village water in 2002.
Short-term rental regulation likely in town of Otsego
FLY CREEK - The town of Otsego is getting closer to regulating short-term rentals properties in residential areas. The town board has discussed regulating the rentals which are often associated with visitors to the Cooperstown Dreams Park who travel with teams to watch their children play baseball at the camp.
Thursday, August 26, 2004
Hartwick water project delayed
HARTWICK - Town officials said Monday night that it is likely construction on the $1.7 million upgrade to the Hartwick water system will be delayed until spring. During a board of water commissioners meeting, engineer Wayne Bunn said that before construction may begin, the federal funding for the project must be "locked-in."
Middleton says Bassett will be a good neighbor
After listening to comments from the public about Bassett Hospital's draft scoping document Tuesday afternoon, hospital vice-president Joe Middleton said, "There are reasonable solutions that can be put in place. The hospital has never been a bad neighbor and won't be now."
Donation will keep no-wake buoys afloat
The Otsego County Conservation Association will provide funds for the Otsego Lake no-wake buoy initiative.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Dreams Park CEO agrees to settle wetlands issue
HARTWICK SEMINARY - Dreams Park CEO Louis Presutti has agreed to fund the creation of new wetlands in an effort to avoid enforcement action by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a violation of wetlands regulations that are part of the federal Clean Water Act.. In a fax message to the Corps' office in Albany Tuesday evening, Presutti stated that "...the Dreams Park has agreed to contribute substantial sums to non-profit agencies to be used to purchase, create and maintain wetland areas in Otsego County."
Town sets hearing on law changes
FLY CREEK - A public hearing for changes to the town land use law concerning shoreline protection districts and General business districts have been scheduled for next month.
Staten Island man claims lotto prize
HARTWICK SEMINARY- Ron DelRosario walked into the P&C, here, on July 21 to buy a loaf of bread and 10 quick pick Lotto tickets.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
New photo exhibit will focus on farming
ROSEBOOM - With her 35mm camera, Leila Durkin will give local farmers and their collectable machines some deserved recognition. "It's a dying breed- the family farm," she said. "There is not much support at all for the farms." The photo exhibit, "The Heart of the Country," will open with a reception Friday, August 13 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Old Baptist Church on Rte. 165 in Roseboom.
Dylan rocked
Neither Cooperstown nor this Bob Dylan fan has seen anything like the rocking Bob Dylan gave us last Friday night. The 63-year-old "poet laureate of rock and roll," Nobel Literature Prize nominee, Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer, and recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors played for nearly two hours, performing 15 songs that covered the spread of his 40-year career.
Nelson's guitar missed
Rebellious country music icon Willie Nelson, who has played thousands of shows in hundreds of cities around the world during his never-ending concert tour, brought his act to Cooperstown for the first time ever last Friday. Despite being hampered by painful hand problems which have rendered him almost unable to play the guitar, the lively Nelson entertained the 11,500 fans at Doubleday Field with a laid-back 75-minute show that included many of his signature tunes.
New photo exhibit will focus on farming
ROSEBOOM - With her 35mm camera, Leila Durkin will give local farmers and their collectable machines some deserved recognition. "It's a dying breed- the family farm," she said. "There is not much support at all for the farms." The photo exhibit, "The Heart of the Country," will open with a reception Friday, August 13 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Old Baptist Church on Rte. 165 in Roseboom.
Dylan rocked
Neither Cooperstown nor this Bob Dylan fan has seen anything like the rocking Bob Dylan gave us last Friday night. The 63-year-old "poet laureate of rock and roll," Nobel Literature Prize nominee, Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer, and recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors played for nearly two hours, performing 15 songs that covered the spread of his 40-year career.
Nelson's guitar missed
Rebellious country music icon Willie Nelson, who has played thousands of shows in hundreds of cities around the world during his never-ending concert tour, brought his act to Cooperstown for the first time ever last Friday. Despite being hampered by painful hand problems which have rendered him almost unable to play the guitar, the lively Nelson entertained the 11,500 fans at Doubleday Field with a laid-back 75-minute show that included many of his signature tunes.
Thursday, August 5, 2004
Dylan/Nelson concert a sellout
The hot dogs have been ordered, the water bottled, the field fertilized and the stage erected for the sold out Friday night concert by music legends Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson at Doubleday Field. Fittingly, the pair is kicking off a tour of 22 minor league baseball parks in Cooperstown. The concert marks the village's first foray in many years into an event at the historic ballpark that does not center around baseball.
No public comment on room limit hike
The board of trustees set the stage Monday for the passage of an amendment to the zoning law which would double the number of rooms a tourist accommodation may rent.
Public invited to record `One day in the life of CV'
CHERRY VALLEY- One hundred disposable cameras have already been purchased and will be handed out this weekend for residents to record 'One Day in the Life of Cherry Valley.'
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Molitor, Eckersley join Hall of Fame
A few hours before the 2004 Induction Ceremony on Sunday afternoon, Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench took this year's inductees, Paul Molitor and Dennis Eckersley, to the back porch of the Otesaga Hotel and sat them in rocking chairs looking out over Otsego Lake. "I just told them to rock and relax for a couple of minutes and think about the fact they were going into the Hall of Fame very soon," Bench said on Monday morning during a special Legends Event at the Clark Sports Center.
$3 million lotto winner sold in Hartwick Seminary
HARTWICK SEMINARY - Someone in the Cooperstown area is walking around with an unclaimed lotto ticket in their pocket worth $3 million dollars.
Quilters raise funds for cancer research
FLY CREEK- Many volunteers have gathered to use a hobby as a means to help find a cure for cancer. Their efforts will be raffled off later this year.
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Eckersely, Molitor enter Hall Sunday
During a final press conference last Thursday before his induction this weekend, Dennis Eckersley said the telephone call he received in January to notify him of his election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame was the "ultimate moment of his life." That's saying something, as Eckersley could point to many pivotal moments, both on and off the field, that could take that honor.
Canadarago and Otsego Lakes not in latest advisory
Otsego and Canadarago Lakes were not included in a list of the waters of New York State whose fish may pose a potential threat of exposure to chemical contaminants, according to the annual list released earlier this month by State Health Department.
Chamber asks board what became of refuse pick up
For the time being, the Chamber of Commerce is going to have to dispose of its own trash.
Thursday, July 15, 2004
Room limit is changed again
A proposed change to the zoning law that would increase the number of rooms a tourist accommodation may rent has changed again. Passage of the amendment has been held up for months by procedural problems and changes to the wording. Last month, a clause regarding grandfathering existing establishments was not removed prior to the public hearing, causing the trustees to wait again.
Open Days offers a look at area's private gardens
The public will get a rare opportunity Saturday, July 17, to tour some of the area's private gardens participating in this year's National Garden Conservancy Open Days Program.
Clark wants to demolish barn
What is believed to be the last example of an agricultural barn in the village narrowly missed an appointment with the wrecking ball Tuesday afternoon.
Thursday, July 8, 2004
Lake forum is set for Sunday
Two organizations with long-standing histories of involvement in Otsego Lake protection have teamed up the SUNY-Oneonta Biological Field Station to present the 2004 Otsego Lake Forum this Sunday, July 11. The Otsego County Conservation Association and Otsego 2000 will be joined by field station staff for a three-part program featuring an excursion on Otsego Lake, followed by updates on lake issues and a special presentation on the implementation of the new septic system management plan instituted earlier this year.
Milford selects planning firm
MILFORD - The Milford village board of trustees agreed on the planning firm Thoma Development Consultants, from Cortland, to help create the village's strategic plan and is in the process of finding seven community members to serve on a steering committee.
Graffiti artist creates cityscape at facility
Grand Slam Paintball owner Mike Grampp is bringing a little "city" into this rural area. With the help of artist Chris Pape, Grampp is creating a cityscape throughout his 10-acre paintball facility located on Route 28 in Hartwick Seminary
Thursday, July 1, 2004
Concert tickets going quickly
By the close of the weekend, the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce had sold more than 5,000 tickets for the Bob Dylan/Willie Nelson concert next month on Doubleday Field. A long line of ticket purchasers had formed by the time sales began at 8 a.m. when 19-year-old Nick Costanzo was the first to get his. Costanzo had been waiting since 3:30 a.m. - more than four hours ahead of the official start time - to purchase 18 tickets for himself and family and friends.
Springfield's Fourth of July parade is Monday
SPRINGFIELD - The 90th Annual Fourth of July parade in Springfield will be one of the highlights of this holiday weekend. Festivities will be held on Monday, July 5.
Glimmerglass Opera opens new festival season tonight
This summer, the Glimmerglass Opera is marking Paul Kellogg's 25th year at the helm, but the company's artistic director really isn't counting.
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Company buys rights to CV turbine project
CHERRY VALLEY - A New Jersey energy company has purchased the rights and breathed new life into the stalled wind turbine electric generation project previously under development by Global Winds Harvest. "We sold the project rights," Global's project manager Erich Bachmayer said Monday. "We're done with development in Cherry Valley."
Scoping document creates confusion
Bassett Hospital's long-awaited draft scoping document for its parking proposal came as quite a shock to the planning board and others who read it prior to Tuesday's meeting.
Love of trains brings hobbyists together weekly
Five local toy train collectors, who call themselves the Mystic Knights of the Rusty Rail, Northern Division, have been meeting every week for the past year to discuss one of their favorite subjects - trains.
Thursday, June 17, 2004
Zebra mussel makes it into Susquehanna River
Biological Field Station director Dr. Willard Harman said this week that zebra mussels are headed downstream in the Susquehanna River on the start of a more than 400-mile journey toward the Chesapeake Bay. The zebra mussels bypassed the Otsego Lake headwaters of the Susquehanna River, entering instead by way of Canadarago Lake and Oaks Creek.
Concert tickets on sale June 26
Tickets for the Bob Dylan/Willie Nelson concert August 6 at Doubleday Field will go on sale next Saturday, June 26, at 8 a.m., according to Don Sullivan, of JAM Producitons, the show's promoter.
`Relay for Life' a success
Approximately 430 participants helped raise close to $85,000 during the "Relay for Life" held last Friday and Saturday.
Thursday, June 10, 2004
Annual parade set for Monday
The second annual Hall of Fame Game Parade will be Monday, June 14. The parade will feature 45 units with over a dozen antique cars, and five bands. "It's a star spangled parade this year in honor of Flag Day," said Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce director Polly Renckens.
Advocates group threatens suit over Brookfield
SPRINGFIELD — After hearing from Springfield town attorney Mike Trosset, "Advocates for Springfield" founder Harry Levine stated that the town granted a 60-day extension for them to file suit with regards to Brookfield, the recently approved motel/lodge on the shore of Otsego Lake.
Developer says land use law is being violated
SPRINGFIELD- Due to a recent letter from Brookfield owner, Bill Miller, the Springfield planning board will request that town attorney Mike Trosset determine the extent of alleged violations of local law number three by some businesses along the lake.
`Mary's Team' continues its fight against cancer
When Sue Pikarsky, founder of the Relay for Life team, Mary's Team, approached Cooperstown Sports Booster president Bob Snyder with fund-raising ideas last fall, it didn't take long for he and the rest of the members of the club to come up with the idea of donating the proceeds from last year's Holiday Basketball Tournament to Pikarsky's team.
Thursday, June 3, 2004
Septic survey starts shortly
Representatives from the village of Cooperstown's watershed supervisory committee will be surveying homeowners around Otsego Lake to gather information about their septic systems. According to watershed coordinator Win McIntyre, the survey will begin in June and continue through August. The survey is part of a new program for the management of septic systems within 500 feet of the lake and 100 feet from the lake's tributary streams.
Vincent will be history at NYSHA
Dr. Gilbert T. Vincent, president of The New York State Historical Association and The Farmers' Museum, has announced that he will be leaving his position in June after more than 20 years in various capacities at the two Cooperstown-based institutions.
Richfield board considers changes to land use law
RICHFIELD- The town board of Richfield has taken steps towards revamping the town's land use laws, specifically for properties with Canadarago Lake frontage.
Thursday, May 27, 2004
CCS to reallocate teaching position
Due to a decline in enrollment, the Cooperstown School board has decided to utilize a third grade teacher for both third and sixth grade classes for the next school year. Several parents expressed concern over the decision during the school board meeting last week.
Future of Philosophy class to be dicussed in meeting
A meeting has been scheduled to solicit input on the direction of the newly created Philosophy class within Cooperstown Central School.
Willis Monie celebrates 25 years as bookseller
Willis Monie will celebrate 25 years as a bookseller on June 1 and mark the occasion with his first foray into the world of book publishing.
Thursday, May 20, 2004
WE-GO's Homegrown Health Fair is Sunday
To celebrate its second year, Cooperstown's Walking Example Group will hold a Homegrown Health Fair on Sunday, May 23 from noon to 4 p.m. at The Farmers' Museum. WE-GO will celebrate active living as well as the importance of nutrition. Along with moving throughout the day, WE-GO founder Brenda Berstler emphasized the importance of "making smart, healthy choices" when it comes to eating.
Kelly steps down from plan board
HARTWICK - Dick Kelly, the co-chairman of the Hartwick planning board submitted his resignation to the town board during a special joint meeting Monday night.
Milford wants input on park land purchase
PORTLANDVILLE - The Milford town board will hold a public hearing to solicit suggestions as to what residents would like to see on 10.21 acres of land the board has agreed to purchase for a park.
Thursday, May 13, 2004
Village receives $5 million grant
Finding a solution to the nagging problems of the Linden Avenue area will be much easier with $5 million in federal grant funds. The grant for an intermodal facility - one that blends many different forms of transportation - was announced Monday morning by Congressman Sherwood Boehlert minutes after he announced a $1 million dollar grant for the Hall of Fame.
Hall also a grant winner
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will receive a $1 million federal grant to help pay for the $21 million renovation currently underway.
Board approves Brookfield plan
SPRINGFIELD — After just over a year of review, the Springfield planning board approved the Brookfield project with the stipulation, among others, that construction will not begin until they received a determination about current litigation between the town, Brookfield developer Bill Miller and neighbors to the project Paul and Davia Batista.
Thursday, May 6, 2004
Dylan concert details are falling into place
Plans for the Bob Dylan/Willie Nelson concert August 6 in Doubleday Field are underway after many of the details were hashed out last Thursday in a special meeting between the board of trustees, the show promoter and various groups and agencies. "I think it's a go," village mayor Carol Waller said Tuesday morning. "I think if it didn't, we'd get lynched at this point." There are still some hurdles to clear, or at least lower, but none appear to be a dealbreaker.
Lake exhibit will feature rare Ruston boat
The Farmers' Museum's exhibit, Mysteries of the Lake, Otsego Lake Past and Present
Thursday, April 29, 2004
Law change may impact bungalows
FLY CREEK- A proposed change in the town of Otsego's land use law, if approved by the town board, could remove an obstacle for the Donney Brook Bungalows planned in Oaksville. According to planning board chairman Jonathan Bass, the town board has been discussing changing certain language within the law for about a year. The changes are an effort to get consistency between each of the General Business Districts and their regulations.
Three boards to hold joint meet
The village planning board will hold a joint meeting with the zoning board of appeals and the board of trustees to discuss a roposed revision to the zoning law.
Study to examine shared-use kitchen
Cornell Cooperative Extension and its Shared-Use Community Kitchen Advisory Committee hope to cook up a plan that would allow area agricultural producers to develop new, value-added products that may help to increase farm viability.
Thursday, April 22, 2004
Trustees agree to Dylan/Nelson concert
Ticket sales won't be a problem. It was standing room only at Monday night's sold-out village board meeting where a largely graying group of residents showed up to voice support for a proposal that would bring music legends Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson together for a concert at Doubleday Field in August.
Mayor wants to sell `Doubleday Water'
Mayor Carol Waller may use the Dylan/Nelson concert in Doubleday Field as the platform to launch a new product - Doubleday Water.
Rotary group returns from five weeks in Africa
The Rotary Group Study Exchange program is designed to create global understanding. However, to GSE member Barbara Harman, it was a lot more.
Thursday, April 15, 2004
New Critical Care Complex ready for patients
Bassett Healthcare will open its new Critical Care Complex addition to it's health care inpatient facility on April 19. The $23 million addition, which has been added as the fifth floor, totaling 24,488 sq. ft. allows for the advanced monitoring and treatment of patients within the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and a Special Care Unit (SCU). According to a recent press release, the complex, with it's 14-bed intensive care unit and the 24 special care beds, is the latest in a series of capital improvements.
Fate of Bob Dylan concert uncertain
Concerns over the turf on Doubleday Field may sideline a proposal to bring music legends Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson together for concert on the famed ball diamond in August.
Petroskey gets dubious honor
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum President Dale Petroskey is among the winners of the 13th annual Jefferson Muzzle awards for the suppression of free speech.
Thursday, April 8, 2004
Brookfield plan draws comment
SPRINGFIELD - Several Springfield residents expressed their approval of the Brookfield project during a public hearing last Thursday, however, a few were still hung up on the proposed increase in density on the two and a half acres of land along Otsego Lake. The 23-unit, "upscale" motel/hotel-lodge, located on Rt. 80 in Springfield Center has been in the works by project owner Bill Miller and his team for over a year.
Hearing to look at variances
The zoning board of appeals set a public hearing for two variances required for a project that would convert a former Chestnut Street car dealership into six residential units.
Dauchy's cancer research a winner
While some high school students are deciding what their summer plans will be when they get out of school, Cooperstown senior Erin Dauchy is working on finding a cure for breast cancer.
Thursday, April 1, 2004
New budget will increase tax rate
Following a decade of no tax increases, the village budget for 2004-2005 calls for the second tax increase in the last three years. According to the budget presented to the board of trustees last Thursday, the tax rate will rise by 17 cents to $12.00 per thousand dollars of assessed value. The new budget increases general fund spending by approximately $400,000 over the previous year to a total of almost $2.5 million.
CCS project cost reduced slightly
The latest version of the Cooperstown Central School's $19 million capital project showed a slight decrease in cost from the first plan in December.
Concert would bring together Dylan, Nelson
The board of trustees agreed last Thursday to pursue a proposal that would bring Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson to Cooperstown in August for a concert at Doubleday Field.
Thursday, March 25, 2004
Dogs deter drugs, but searches may create problems
Participants in a forum about the possible use of canine searches within Cooperstown Central school district felt initially that searches would act as a deterrent to drug use, but feared that it might create a division among students and the faculty. Canine searches were first investigated and eventually turned down by the school board in September of 1999 after more than a year of research, two demonstrations, and two comprehensive surveys. The rationale for the decision was to allow new administration the opportunity to assess the situation.
Plan board still favors no limit
The village planning board has not given up on convincing the board of trustees that its proposal to remove the limit on the number of rooms a tourist accommodation may rent is the right approach.
Students rest up for sleep-over
There will be plenty of tired parents recuperating this weekend after they volunteer at the 14th annual Cooperstown Central School Read-in Sleep-Over that will be held this Friday for first graders.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Trustees vote to keep room limit
The board of trustees decided Monday not to follow the recommendation of the planning board to remove the room limit for village tourist accommodations. Citing fears that doing away with the limit could result in a "wide-open" situation, trustees rejected the amendment to the zoning law and set the stage to put in place a four-room limit throughout the village.. Trustee Lee Malone said she had changed her mind on the issue many times and that two room limit currently in the law was too little. "But thinking about the people of the village, I'm worried that no limit will be a free-for-all," she said.
CCS cuts tax levy increase
During its second budget workshop, held last Wednesday evening, the Cooperstown Central School Board of Education changed the spending plan slightly for the 2004- 2005 school year, resulting in an decrease in the tax levy to 7.4 percent.
Carriage barn is damaged in fire
FLY CREEK — Flames engulfing an old carriage barn reached above the spruce trees along State highway 28 Sunday evening.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Write-ins will decide Milford village election
MILFORD - The only village election in the area with a contested race is in Milford-where no one's name is on the ballot. No candidates were endorsed during the Democratic and Republican caucuses in January and no one submitted an independent nominating petition resulting in a ballot for the annual village election with no candidates. But it now looks like three Milford residents will be running write-in campaigns for a vacant seat on the village board of trustees for the March 16 election.
Energy developer still interested in Cherry Valley
CHERRY VALLEY - Global Winds Harvest has not returned to the town planning board since July 2002, but it has not given up hope of developing a wind energy project in Cherry Valley.
Planners set hearing on Brookfield
SPRINGFIELD - After the presentation of the final site and landscape plans by Brookfield developers, the Springfield planning board scheduled a public hearing to solicit comments about the project for April 1.
Thursday, March 4, 2004
CCS budget hikes levy by almost 8%
The Cooperstown Central School Board of Education discussed the proposed 2004-2005 budget of $13.7 million last Wednesday, which calls for a spending increase of 4.8 percent over last year and a hike of 7.9 percent for the tax levy. Superintendent of Schools Mary Jo McPhail stated that the budget numbers will change because programs are currently being reviewed.
Hartwick says yes to sidewalks
HARTWICK - Town officials in Hartwick told representatives from the New York State Department of Transportation that sidewalks should be part of the plan to upgrade a 3.2 mile stretch of State Highway 28, south of Cooperstown.
Forum to discuss canine searches
The forum to discuss allowing random canine searches within Cooperstown Central School will be held on Thursday, March 18 at 7 p.m. at the middle/high school.
Thursday, February 26, 2004
Proposal would convert building to townhouses
A proposal to convert a Chestnut Street property, commonly known as the 'Larry Fritsch building,' was greeted with enthusiasm by the vilage planning board Tuesday afternoon. Planning board chairman Paul Kuhn called it a "terrific idea," but at the same time said it was "problematic." The development proposal, called 'The Mews at 10 Chestnut," came to the board from the husband and wife team of Don Feinberg and Wendy Littlefield, former owners of Brewery Ommegang.
Bassett unveils its latest cancer research findings
Dr. David Blask, a research scientist in the Basset Reaserch Institute Laboratory of Chrono-Neuroendocrinology, recently discussed preliminary findings about effects of light on cancer cells.
Association will study town barns
MIDDLEFIELD - The Town of Middlefield Historical Association has been awarded a $2000 Decentralization Grant to create a photo documentary study of barn structures in the town of Middlefield.
Thursday, February 19, 2004
Susquehanna Avenue bridge to be replaced
Otsego County has plans to replace the Susquehanna Avenue bridge over the river of the same name within the next year or two. Otsego County highway superintendent Ron Tiderencil made a brief presentation to the village board of trustees Tuesday night about the need to replace the current concrete arch bridge that was built in 1928. The bridge, which is in the village, but owned by the county, has received a rating of 6.8 which means it has a remaining life span of about seven years, he said.
Otsego to look at short-term rentals
FLY CREEK - The Otsego town board will look into the creation of a local ordinance that would regulate short-term rentals like those often associated with Dreams Park visitors.
It is clear that lake water is improving
The water in Otsego Lake is now the clearest it has been in the last 20 years, according to Biological Field Station director Dr. Willard Harman.
Thursday, February 12, 2004
Project will cater to weekly rentals
FLY CREEK - A final site plan review for a special permit may be presented to the Otsego town planning board next month for a motel/hotel complex that could accommodate 140-200 Dreams Park visitors. The Donney Brook Bungalows are to be located between Rte. 80 and Parslow Rd. in Oaksville. The property is owned by Ken Stabler and the site plan designs have been created by Beardsley Design Associates. "We've been working on this project close to a year," said Tom Cormier, business manager for the project. "We've worked hard on it. I think it will fit in with this whole area."
Park's expansion plan is approved
HARTWICK - The Cooperstown Dreams Park's latest three-year expansion plan was one of four Route 28 development projects approved by the Hartwick town planning board during its meeting Tuesday night.
Forum to address canine searches
Although the Cooperstown Central School board of education will continue to look into having canine searches, the idea of surveillance cameras does not seem to be an option the district will pursue.
Thursday, February 5, 2004
Winter Carnival begins Friday
The schedule has been set, the snow is here, and events will begin this weekend at the 38th annual Cooperstown Winter Carnival. "This is the perfect opportunity to get out," said Peg Wilson, a chairperson on the winter carnival committee. She estimates that it will be "one really great weekend." Several new events have been added to the schedule this year. Activities begin Friday and continue through Sunday. A barbecue will be held in the Fire Hall on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (location changed from Lake Front Park). Dinosaur BBQ from Syracuse will provide the meal.
CROP program funds reinstated
Cooperstown Central School officials have received word that the funding for the free after school program, Creating Rural Opportunities Partnership (CROP), has been renewed.
Milford receives planning grant
MILFORD- The village of Milford was approved this week for a $12,600 Strategic Plan Technical Assistance grant from the state to help the village board determine future projects.
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Incumbents only in village election
This year's village election was locked up by the two political parties during their caucuses Tuesday night. The Democrats and Republicans decided to cross endorse candidates from the two parties resulting in a ballot that bears only the names of the incumbents and avoids a challenge from a newcomer on a party ticket.
Edmeston eyes junk yard law
EDMESTON- Elsie Waite has lived in Edmeston all her life and has watched numerous town officials try to institute a town 'junk yard law."
Girl donates hair to help to help cancer victims
EDMESTON - Nine year-old Katie Payne, a fourth-grader at Edmeston Central School, wanted to make some kind of contribution to help those who were living with cancer. So she went out and got a haircut, 12 inches to be exact, which will be sent to Locks Of Love.
Thursday, January 22, 2004
HOF game tickets go on sale Feb. 14
Tickets for the 58th annual Hall of Fame Game, scheduled to be played between the Atlanta Braves and the Minnesota Twins on Monday, June 14 at 2 p.m., will be available beginning February 14, in a variety of ways for fans across the country. The historic annual event, featuring a pair of Major League Baseball teams in an exhibition game, will take place at Doubleday Field on Flag Day, the second consecutive year that the event will be separated from Hall of Fame Weekend.
Hall considering fantasy baseball program this fall
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum officials think there are plenty of people who would step up to the plate - and pay for - a chance to play ball with some Hall of Famers.
Magazine features holiday creations
Seasonal decorations created by Theatrum Botanicum are featured in the current issue of the national magazine "Country Living Gardener."
Thursday, January 15, 2004
Ice comes to Otsego Lake
Last weekend's cold snap was more than enough to do the trick. Otsego Lake officially closed for the winter Saturday morning, following temperatures that ranged from the minus 14 degrees recorded by the National Weather Service observers at the Fenimore Art Museum to the minus 24 degrees Biological Field Station director Dr. Willard Harman had at the north end of the lake. Harman said Monday that January 10 will go down as the official date of closing this year.
DOT asks about Rt. 28 sidewalks
HARTWICK - Property owners on the section of Route 28 targeted for upgrades by the NYS Department of Transportation are being asked if they want sidewalks included in the agency's plan for upgrading the state highway which has been delayed because of plans to relocate a historic structure close to the roadway.
Project will record Otsego Lake's beauty
Cooperstown photographer Richard Duncan will be focusing his attention and his Hasselblad on Otsego Lake for the next two years.
Hall attendance down 10 percent
The National Baseball Hall of Fame's attendance in 2003 was off about 10 percent from 2002, with a total of 315,714 visitors passing through the turnstiles last year.
Thursday, January 8, 2004
Eckersley, Molitor chosen for Hall
Before Tuesday, only 38 people had been elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers' Association of America in their first year of eligibility. Make it 40. Paul Molitor, who spent much of his career as a designated hitter, and pitcher Dennis Eckersley were elected to the Hall Tuesday, with both receiving more than the 75 percent of votes needed for induction.
Computers are a growing part of high school art
Area students are no longer limited in their high school art classes to just paper, pens and paint.
Students begin penny drive to build classroom in India
Brick by Brick, Cooperstown elementary students are working together to build a classroom for students in Kuran, India.
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