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Local Students Earn Honors

February 11, 2012 By Leave a Comment
MarchJ11

 

 

Pictured is Jenna March of Munnsville.

Capirci Makes Dean’s List

Arianne Capirci of Hamilton, a member of the class of 2013, was named to Tufts University’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2011 semester.

Dean’s List honors at Tufts University require a semester grade point average of 3.4 or greater.

Campbell Earns Honors

Lucile Campbell, a member of the class of 2013 at Skidmore College, earned term honors for the fall semester. She is the daughter of Murray Decock and Sally Campbell of Hamilton.

Term honors are awarded for a quality point ratio of 3.6 from a possible 4.0, for students who have completed 14 credit hours.

St. Bonaventure Announces Dean’s List

The following area students have been named to the fall 2011 dean’s list at St. Bonaventure University:

Terence Hartnett, a fourth-year student from Cazenovia, majoring in English; and Molly Hudson, a first-year student from Cazenovia, majoring in undeclared arts.

University of Vermont Announces Dean’s List

The following area students have been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2011 semester at the University of Vermont:

Michael T. Jones of Hamilton, a sophomore majoring in political science in the College of Arts & Sciences; Makenzy M. Smith of Oriskany Falls, a sophomore majoring in anthropology in the College of Arts & Sciences.

To be named to the dean’s lists, students must have a grade-point average of 3.0 or better and rank in the top 20 percent of their class in their respective college or school.

Dermody Earns Honors at Connecticut College

Kerry Dermody, a member of the class of 2012 at Connecticut College and a resident of Erieville, has been named to the dean’s honors list for the 2011 fall semester.

At Connecticut College, Dean’s Honors is a recognition for students who have earned a grade point average of at least 3.66, and Dean’s High Honors is a recognition for students who have earned a grade point average of at least 3.78.

Haynes on Dean’s List

Alanna Haynes of Edwin Street, Chittenango, has earned a place on the SUNY Cortland School of Education dean’s list for the fall semester, earning a GPA of greater than 3.30.

Herkimer Announces Dean’s List Students

Six hundred Herkimer County Community College students earned academic honors for the fall 2011 semester. The following local students were named to the dean’s list for earning grade point averages from 3.25 to 3.8:

Brookfield: Patti Rose Hawes, liberal arts & sciences: social science

Canastota: Amy L. Ferguson, paralegal; Tessa R. Gaglianese, business – business administration

DeRuyter: Hannah L. Benjamin, liberal arts & sciences: humanities

Kirkville: Stacy Trexler, liberal arts & sciences: general studies

Leonardsville: Ryan M. Ashley, liberal arts & sciences: social science

Oriskany Falls: Nicole Marie Diehl, business: human resource management

Herkimer Announces President’s List Students

Six hundred Herkimer County Community College students earned academic honors for the fall 2011 semester. The following local students were named to the President’s List for earning grade point averages of 3.8 and higher.

Jill A. Dupre of Canastota majoring in medical coding/transcriptionist certificate

Crystal A. Swanson of Canastota majoring in liberal arts & sciences: social science

Eric Andrew Sayler of Hamilton majoring in emergency medical technician-paramedic

Deborah Danielle Church of Wampsville majoring in emergency medical technician-paramedic

Taylor Jayne Montgomery of Waterville majoring in paralegal

SUNY Oneonta Announces Dean’s List

The following area residents were among the 1,458 students who earned dean’s list honors for the fall 2011 semester at SUNY Oneonta. To qualify for the dean’s list, undergraduate students must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while carrying a course load of 12 semester hours or more.

Canastota: Brandyn McDermott and Erin O’Hern

Chittenango: Kassandra Gustin, Haley Landers and Indiana Nash

Earlville: Megan Record

Eaton: James Johnston and Jamison Maciag

Hamilton: Nicolle Holcomb

Kirkville: Laura Adams

Madison: Hannah Matteson

Sherburne: Scott Burlison, Courtney Kurtz, Christopher Weinell, Hannah Weinell and Paul Weinell

Waterville: Kate Morgan

Roberts Named to President’s List

(Hubbardsville) Andrew F. Roberts of Hubbardsville, was named to the president’s list at Western New England for the fall semester of 2011. Roberts is a junior majoring in communication. Students are named to the president’s list for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.80 or higher.

Students Named to Dean’s List at Western New England University

The following students have been named to dean’s list at Western New England for the fall semester of 2011. Students are named to the dean’s list for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.30 or higher.

Sarah E. Race of Cazenovia, a sophomore majoring in elementary education, and Audra J. Smyrski of Hubbardsville, a sophomore majoring in accounting.

Madison’s Burdick Named to Wilkes University Dean’s List

Ryan Burdick of Madison was named to the Wilkes University dean’s list for the fall 2011 semester. To be named to the dean’s list, students must obtain a minimum 3.4 GPA and carry at least 12 credits.

Deyo of Erieville Receives Scholarship to Attend Alfred State College

A Madison County resident has been awarded a $1,000 per year Educational Foundation Academic Distinction scholarship to attend Alfred State College. Jessie Deyo of Erieville is slated to graduate in 2012 from Cazenovia Central High School and intends to enroll in the forensic science technology program. The award, based on scholastic achievement, is from the Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc., according to Deborah Goodrich, associate vice president for enrollment management at Alfred State.

Cadet Thomas Zenon Named to Dean’s List at The Citadel

Cadet Thomas Childeric Zenon of Waterville has been named to the dean’s list at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, for academic achievement during the fall 2011 semester. Zenon is seeking a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Dean’s list recognition is given to those cadets and active duty military students whose grade point average is 3.2 or higher with no grade below a C for the previous semester’s work.

Zenon and other dean’s list students will be recognized during The Citadel’s Jan. 27 military dress parade, which begins at 3:45 p.m. on Summerall Field.

SUNY Potsdam Announces Dean’s List

The State University of New York at Potsdam recently named more than 400 students to the dean’s list for the fall 2011 semester. A total of 409 SUNY Potsdam students who excelled academically were honored for their high marks. Among the local students who made the SUNY Potsdam dean’s list was Matthew Burdick of DeRuyter, majoring in mathematics.

To achieve the honor of being on the dean’s list, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically graded semester hours with a grade point average of between 3.25 and 3.49 in the given semester.

Campbell Named to Saint Michael’s College Dean’s List

Jessica Campbell, daughter of Theresa Snyder of Canastota and Ty Campbell of Cazenovia, was named to the fall 2011 dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College, a liberal arts, residential Catholic college located in Burlington, Vt. Campbell is a first-year media studies and digital arts major and graduate of Canastota High School.

Also, Christine Fitzgerald, daughter of Diana and James Fitzgerald of Kirkville, was named to the fall 2011 dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College, a liberal arts, residential Catholic college located in Burlington, Vt. Fitzgerald is a first-year media studies and digital arts major and graduate of Chittenango High School.

Students who complete a minimum of 12 credits and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.4 at the end of a semester are recognized for their scholarship by inclusion on the Dean’s List.

Roberts Wesleyan College Announces Dean’s List

Roberts Wesleyan College is pleased to announce the following students were named to the dean’s list for their outstanding academic performance for the fall 2011 semester: Rachel Boswell of Chittenango, Michelle Brandt of Canastota, Danielle Glasso of Kirkville received highest honors, Nicholas Hanggi of Chittenango received highest honors, Chelsea Hodge of Kirkville, and Wayne Matteson of Erieville.

Honors grade point averages range from 3.5 to 3.69; highest honors grade point averages range from 3.9 to 4.0.

Area students graduate from Paul Smith’s College

The following area students graduated from Paul Smith’s College in December: John Mullins of Cazenovia graduated with a bachelor of science degree in fisheries and wildlife sciences, and Schuyler VanAuken of Hamilton graduated with a certificate in geographic information systems.

March Earns Mustang Athlete of the Week Honors

(Munnsville) The Morrisville State College athletic department has named women’s basketball forward Jenna March of Munnsville the female athlete of the week for the week ending Jan. 29.

March was instrumental in the conference victory over Cazenovia, netting 12 points and grabbing eight rebounds (seven on the offensive glass), hitting 6-of-8 shots from the floor on the day. She also tallied an assist and two steals. March surpassed the career record for blocks, recording her 89th career blocked shot against Wells.

While majoring in nursing at Morrisville State, March earned dean’s list and president’s list honors and has been named to the North Eastern Athletic Conference Scholar-Athlete Team.

March is the daughter of Denise and Michael March of Munnsville.

University of New Hampshire Announces Dean’s List

The following students have been named to the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire for the fall semester of the 2011-12 academic year.

Megan Horowitch of Cazenovia earned Highest Honors

Students named to the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire have earned recognition through their superior scholastic performance. Highest Honors are awarded to students who earn a semester grade point average of 3.7 or better out of a possible 4.0.

Roberts Wesleyan College Announces Dean’s List

Roberts Wesleyan College is pleased to announce the following students were named to the dean’s list for their outstanding academic performance for the fall 2011 semester:

Kelly Anderson of Chittenango received High Honors.

High Honors grade point averages range from 3.7 to 3.89.

Colgate Honors Dean’s List Students

The following students from Colgate University are recipients of the dean’s award for academic excellence during the 2011 fall term at Colgate University. To be eligible for the dean’s award, a Colgate student must achieve a 3.30 or higher average while enrolled in four courses.

A member of the Colgate class of 2015, Mary Jo Beehm, is the daughter of Jeffrey A. and Patsy L. Beehm. Beehm is a graduate of Brookfield Central School.

Filed Under: Brookfield, Cazenovia, Chittenango, DeRuyter, Earlville, Education, Erieville, Hamilton, Hubbardsville, Kirkville, Leonardsville, Madison, Munnsville, Sherburne, Wampsville

Local Students Earn Honors

February 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Your Scholars

Local students named to Springfield College dean’s list

Springfield College has named the following local residents to the dean’s list for academic excellence for the fall 2011 term.

Daniel Patane of Canastota. Daniel is studying Undeclared.

Logan Aikins of Sherburne. Logan is studying Applied Exercise Science.

News from SUNY Potsdam

SUNY Potsdam Students Earn Spots on President’s List

The State University of New York at Potsdam recently named more than 900 students to the President’s List for the Fall 2011 semester in recognition of their academic excellence.

Among the local students who made the SUNY Potsdam President’s List were:

Allison Forth of Canastota whose major is Childhood/Early Child Education

Corey Hopkins of Canastota whose major is Music Education

Kali Jarvis of Canastota whose major is Childhood/Early Child Education

Rhimmon Simchy-Gross of Canastota whose major is Music Performance

Mary Whitcombe of Canastota whose major is Childhood/Early Child Education

Robert Taube of Cazenovia whose major is Music Education

Emilie Weinheimer of Cazenovia whose major is Psychology

Cortney Mayo of Hamilton whose major is Speech Communication

Caleigh Tuttle of Hamilton whose major is Theatre

Timothy Simmons of Sherburne whose major is Psychology

To achieve the honor of being on the President’s List, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically-graded semester hours with a minimum grade point average of 3.5.

Local Students Named to Clarkson University Dean’s List

The following students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2011 semester at Clarkson University.

Beth A. Schneider, a senior majoring in civil engineering from Bridgeport.

Matthew R. Ager, a junior majoring in engineering and management from Canastota.

Tristan R. Jones, a freshman majoring in chemical engineering from Canastota.

Jeffrey R. Merrell, a freshman majoring in civil engineering from Canastota.

Michael R. Tornatore, a sophomore majoring in innovation and entrepreneurship from Canastota.

Michael A. Blanchard, a junior majoring in chemical engineering from Cazenovia.

Ryan J. Eklund, a freshman majoring in aeronautical engineering from Chittenango.

Danielle K. Cuddeback, a freshman majoring in pre-physical therapy/psychology from DeRuyter.

David E. Revette, a senior majoring in civil engineering from DeRuyter.

Andrea M. Riedman, a sophomore majoring in civil engineering from Kirkville.

Nicole M. Verone, a freshman majoring in engineering studies from Kirkville.

Raeanne J. Clabeaux, a freshman majoring in university studies from New Woodstock.

Molly E. Ogden, a sophomore majoring in history/interdisciplinary social sciences from Earlville.

Mallory J. Carhart, a senior majoring in interdisciplinary social sciences from Hamilton.

Heather H. Munz, a senior majoring in biology from Hubbardsville.

Loren J. McNamara, a senior majoring in civil engineering from Leonardsville.

Rebecca R. Kirley, a senior majoring in global supply chain management from Madison.

Colin Maykish, a junior majoring in software engineering from Sherburne.

Dean’s List students must achieve a minimum 3.25 grade-point average and also carry at least 14 credit hours.

Local Students Named Clarkson University Presidential Scholars

The following students were named Presidential Scholars for the fall 2011 semester at Clarkson University.

Ellen M. Heenan, a junior majoring in engineering and management from Bridgeport.

Thomas F. Wilkowski, a senior majoring in electrical engineering from Bridgeport.

Alexandra B. Cameron, a freshman majoring in chemical engineering from Cazenovia.

Josh Bunce, a freshman majoring in civil engineering from Chittenango.

Sean P. Shea, a freshman majoring in aeronautical engineering/mechanical engineering from Chittenango.

Presidential Scholars must achieve a minimum 3.80 grade-point average and carry at least 14 credit hours.

Evans Named to Sacred Heart University’s Dean’s List

Kiley Evans of Cazenovia was named to the fall 2011 Dean’s List at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn. To receive this honor, a student must achieve a 3.6 grade average, based on a 4.0 scale.

 

Filed Under: Bridgeport-Lakeport, Canastota, Cazenovia, Chittenango, DeRuyter, Earlville, Education, Hamilton, Hubbardsville, Kirkville, Leonardsville, Madison, New Woodstock, Sherburne

Whitmarsh Exhibit to be Held Feb. 4 through 29

January 31, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Whitmarsh

 

Born in Cuyler, New York, Tom Whitmarsh spent 37 years as an engineer in Alaska. His Exhibit, “Alaskan Art” will be on display at the New Woodstock Free Library through February 29. Whitmarsh is now a resident of DeRuyter.

New Woodstock Free Library news

By Norm Parry

(New Woodstock, NY – Feb. 2012) A collection of works by multitalented and storied artist Tom Whitmarsh will be on display at the New Woodstock Free Library Feb. 4 through 29. There will be a reception for the artist from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 4.

Originally from Cuyler, Whitmarsh spent 37 years as an engineer in Alaska, where he discovered the northwest coast native wood carving traditions. He added wood carvings to his developing painting pursuits and began selling and exhibiting his works in local Alaskan art shows.

He retired to DeRuyter in 2009. His most recent works include scenes from the local landscape.

Though he had very little formal art training, Whitmarsh’s paintings and carvings show an engineer’s eye for detail and structure. His wood pieces are visually dramatic and arresting. His paintings express his close connection with the mysteries of the wilderness and the harsh realities of life in the great outdoors.

“We are delighted to present this truly iconic collection of works by our new neighbor Tom Whitmarsh, who has chosen to settle here in retirement,” said library exhibits Chairwoman Nancy Edwards. “The scope and variety of this collection is truly remarkable. Some of the works are of imposing size and all are strikingly original.

“Our community will have the opportunity to enjoy the unusual and fascinating works Tom has brought with him from his long sojourn in Alaska. Tom Whitmarsh the man and Tom Whitmarsh the artist are both people you’ll love to meet. This is one of Tom’s first big shows in New York, and it’s a must-see event for those who appreciate unusual art and native creativity.”

For more about Tom Whitmarsh and samples of his works, visit midyork.org/newwoodstock; for more information on any library event or service, call 315-662-3134, or visit the library web page. Find and “Like” the library on Facebook.

Norm Parry is library director for the New Woodstock Free Library. The library is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m., Monday and Wednesday evenings 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Filed Under: Art & Culture, Calendar of Events, DeRuyter, Libraries, New Woodstock Tagged With: , , , ,

Local Residents Named to Dean’s Lists

January 21, 2012 By Leave a Comment

SUNY Geneseo Announces Fall Dean’s List

The State University of New York at Geneseo has announced its dean’s list for the fall semester 2011. To be on the list, a student must have achieved a 3.5 grade point average while taking at least 12 credit hours. Students on the list from this area include:

Robert Carpenter, Isaac Schultz and Robert Wojcikiewicz of Cazenovia; Melissa Bebernes and Gregory Foster of Chittenango; Emily Sinesi of DeRuyter; and Rachael Bradley of Sherburne.

Nazareth College Announces Spring 2011 Dean’s List

Nazareth College is proud to announce the following students have earned dean’s list honors for the fall 2011 semester:

Abigail Goings of Canastota is studying commun science and disorders; Emily O’Hara of Cazenovia is studying biology; Meredith Furtado of Chittenango is studying commun science and disorders; Christopher Greene of Chittenango is studying health sciences; Rosemarie Thresh of Chittenango is studying music education; Amanda Stevens of Kirkville is studying accounting; Kassandra Lathrop of Earlville is studying commun science and disorders; Megan Matott of Sherburne is studying biology; and Gretchen Erlichman of Waterville is studying music education.

A student’s grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the dean’s list at Nazareth.

Engle Named to University of New Haven Dean’s List

(Waterville) Brianne Engle (junior) or Waterville was named to the dean’s list at the University of New Haven for the fall 2011 semester. Full-time undergraduate students must have a 3.50 or better cumulative GPA for the semester to be eligible for the dean’s list.

Dellas Earns Master of Science at University of Vermont

The University of Vermont conferred degrees on nearly 400 graduates, including 324 bachelor’s, 57 master’s and post-baccalaureate certificate and 13 doctoral degree recipients during the 208th commencement ceremonies held in December.

Among them was Kate A. Dellas of Cazenovia, who received a master of science in historic preservation.

Residents Named to Cazenovia College Dean’s List

Cazenovia College recently released names of students honored for academic achievement during the fall 2011 semester. The College is home to about 1,000 degree-seeking students; those named to the dean’s list have achieved a 3.5 or better grade point average for all courses attempted, and have earned 12 or more academic credits during the semester.

Among the students on Cazenovia College’s fall 2011 dean’s list are:

Kiley A. Barr, of Cazenovia, a senior working toward a bachelor of fine arts degree in visual communications; Kailee Findlay, of Canastota, a sophomore working toward a bachelor of fine arts degree in studio art; Stephanie A. Joyce, of Earlville, a junior working toward a bachelor of fine arts degree in studio art specializing in photography; Megan E. Kim, of Cazenovia, a sophomore working toward a bachelor of professional studies degree in management specializing in fashion merchandising; Melissa A. Schleifer, of Munnsville, a senior working toward a bachelor of fine arts degree in studio art; and Leah E. Schmitt, of Earlville, a sophomore working toward a bachelor of fine arts degree in visual communications.

Filed Under: Announcements, Canastota, Cazenovia, Chittenango, DeRuyter, Earlville, Education, Kirkville, Munnsville, Sherburne

Tioughnioga Winter Carnival 2012 Schedule

January 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Carnival Logo Plain

 

Community Talent Show Contestants Sought

(DeRuyter, NY – Jan. 2012) The DeRuyter Community Center is looking for acts to perform in a Community Talent Show, part of the 2012 Tioughnioga Winter Carnival.

The contest will be held in the DeRuyter Central School small gym at 711 Railroad St. in DeRuyter.

The show will run from 3 to 5:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 14.

For more information or to register, call Danita Kinner at (315) 852-9694, Nell Ziegler at (315) 374-9605, Jennifer Pilcher at (315) 454-2533 or visit cnywintercarnival.com for specifics and to print an entry form.

Schedule of Events

Friday, Jan. 13

5:30 p.m.: Soup & Bread Dinner, St. Lawrence Church, bring soup or bread to share

7 to 9 p.m.: Winter-themed Movie Night at the school, sponsored by the PTO

Saturday, Jan. 14

6 a.m.: Sausage & Gravy Special, Cuyler Diner

10 a.m.: Chicken BBQ, Big M/DCS Parking Lot, sponsored by the Cuyler Fire Department, Quad-4 Wheelers

9 a.m. and 10 a.m. (two games) DCS 4th ,5th, 6th-grade Basketball Game at DCS

10 a.m.: DeRuyter White-Out 5k Walk/Run, front of DeRuyter Central School, Ruritans/Boy Scouts

9 to 11 a.m.: Scavenger Hunt, Citizens Bank

All day: Student Art Gallery, school; Snowsculpture, school, sponsored by Student Council

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Tromptown Art Gallery, Cortland Street, Tim Etter

3 to 5:30 p.m.: Community Talent Show, school, DeRuyter Community Center

3 to 5:30 p.m.: Refreshments at the school

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Children’s activities and vendors at the school

1 to 3 p.m.: Children’s Program, DCS Library Media Center

Library Card Sign-Up, DCS Library Media Center

3 to 6 p.m.: Chili Contest, Parish House, United Church of DeRuyter

Sunday, Jan. 15

7 a.m.: Breakfast/Brunch at the American Legion

6 a.m.: Sausage & Gravy Special, Cuyler Diner

1 p.m.: Ester Delee Story by Don Edwards, United Church of DeRuyter

2 p.m.: Chicken Wing Contest(s) at the Coal Yard; $5/sauce recipe or eating contest

Filed Under: Calendar of Events, DeRuyter, Dining & Entertainment, Fun & Recreation, Top Stories Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Hydrofracking, Compulsory Integration and Thanksgiving

December 29, 2011 By 2 Comments

To the Editor:

(DeRuyter, NY – Dec. 2011) I have been studying this issue, gathering information and hearing testimony the past two years. Here is my summary of facts and observations:

Having read excerpts of gas land leases old and new, they are not leases as most would consider with a definitive end date. They are, in my opinion, land grabs where the property owner gives up many rights and say as to the stewardship of the land if drilling were to commence. Even the then-attorney general agrees with my assessment:

“Many of these companies use their size and extensive resources to manipulate individual property owners who often cannot afford to hire a private attorney,” said former state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. “This land-grab practice must stop.”

Most gas land leases don’t just end on a specified date. If no drilling “operations” have started that extend the lease indefinitely, there are many hoops the property owner has to correctly go through in hopes of maybe ending the lease.

For example, the original gas company you signed a lease with may have sold its interest or parts of it not having to notify you of this. One property owner had six different companies with a vested interest that he had to send a letter of termination to each within a window of time at the supposed end of his contract. He had to go to the County Clerk’s Office and research who all had a lien on the deed to find the six companies. If he missed notifying one, his contract would have extended.

I have seen talking points for gas sales people instructing them to purposely deceive and avoid certain topics when selling these land contracts.

I have struggled with the risks, ( i.e., town of Brookfield incident, Bradford County, Penn., real horror stories and Vosberg Road, October 2010), company’s handling of issues and lack of cooperation, problems obtaining loans or refinancing if a gas lease contract exists or with your neighbors, violating some mortgage contracts if you sign a gas lease, homeowners policies excluding pollution liability if something goes wrong, the industry being exempt from key components of the Clean Air and Drinking Water Act, 70 percent or more of the water and deadly cocktail solutions remaining in the ground after companies leave, property right issues over the compulsory integration law and a host of other issues.

I took an all-day trip down to Pennsylvania recently south of Wilkes Barre, stopping in small-town cafes, asking people about their thoughts regarding this matter. I found that a lot of people who signed leases regretted it, not wishing to renew their leases knowing what they know now.

One thing is for sure where I went: the issue has divided communities and even a local church. I haven’t made up my mind “totally,” but I personally could not sign a gas lease. I could not risk my neighbor’s water supply, be a venue for the gas company to encroach upon their property through compulsory integration and destroying the peaceful tranquility we now enjoy and treasure with hundreds of semi trucks coming and going, along with a compressor running around the clock.

The bigger issue is does it rise to the level of being a public safety concern that necessitates government to ban if not restrict the practice of natural gas hydrofracking? The latter is definite. I believe the ban should affect watershed areas for sure.

If counties or towns want to legislate banning the practice, they should be allowed to do so. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the lawsuit with the town of Dryden, where a ban has been passed and the gas industry is suing them, saying it is unlawful to do so, having no jurisdiction on the matter.

We have a lot to give thanks for here in Madison County. We live in a country that is still free where government and industry cannot silence free and virtuous people. We were given by our founding fathers a republic. Benjamin Franklin said, “A republic, madam, if you can keep it.”

Keeping that republic requires respect for the values that contributed to this now two-century-old experiment where unalienable rights come not from government but from Divine Providence and therefore cannot be taken way. That’s the idea anyways.

Man has slowly been eroding those values and rights, thinking a few intellectual elite know better how to manage our lives, property and economy. Though some of us will have differing opinions on issues, may we act with God’s love in our hearts toward one another as the democratic process on display seeks to minimize man’s vices and maximizes our respect for one another.

Shawn Skeele, DeRuyter

Filed Under: Brookfield, DeRuyter, Environment and Nature, Opinion-Editorial Tagged With: , , , ,

Winter Carnival Adds Talent Show

December 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Tioughnioga Winter Carnival to be held Jan. 13-15

(DeRuyter, NY – Jan. 2012) Do you have a talent?  The DeRuyter Community Center is looking for local talent to participate in its first Community Talent Show.  The Talent Show is scheduled as a part of the 2012 Tioughnioga Winter Carnival.  This event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 14 from 3 to 5:30 p.m.

Rules and Registration Information

We welcome musical, dance, comedy, and magic acts.  Other acts will be considered if appropriate.  We ask that acts limit their sessions to 5 minutes or less.  All acts will be screened at the time of the dress rehearsal.  Acts must be free of profanity, racial/ethnic slurs, and indecent exposure (refer to DeRuyter Central School’s Code of Conduct) in order to participate.

The Talent Show will be judged by a jury.  There will be several prizes – including a Grand Prize.

For more information or to sign up, please contact: Danita Kinner at 852.9694, Nell Ziegler at 374.9605 or Jenn Pilcher at 454.2533.

Carnival Events

The 2012 Tioughnioga Winter Carnival is scheduled to take place Friday, Jan. 13 through Sunday, Jan. 15.

Here are just a few of the events scheduled to take place.

Friday

PTO Family Movie Night - Scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. at DeRuyter Central School.

Saturday

Sausage Gravy and Biscuit special at the Cuyler Diner.

Student Art Gallery- taking place throughout the DCS hallway throughout the day.

DeRuyter White-out scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.

DeRuyter Library Children’s Program - scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. in the DCS Library Media Center.

Sunday

American Legion Breakfast Buffet- scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. at the DeRuyter Legion Hall.

Chicken Wing Contest-scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. at Rainbow’s Coal Yard.

 

Filed Under: Calendar of Events, DeRuyter, Fun & Recreation Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

RSVP Thanks all Bone Builder Volunteers

December 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment
rsvp grouppic

(Morrisville, NY) Recently, 29 active Bone Builder exercise group leaders gathered for a workshop at the RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) office at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Morrisville. They reviewed the basic Bone Builders Program information and updates so they could help their weekly exercise group participants stay strong and vibrant.

The room was filled with great energy and enthusiasm as the Bone Builders learned and practiced new warm up, balance, and strengthening exercises.  They also shared helpful program tips and ideas that they have learned through many years of service.

Some Bone Builders volunteers have worked with the program for almost 14 years. We applaud and appreciate all of their efforts.

The Canastota Bone Builders Exercise Group meets weekly on Tuesdays at the Canastota Library at 1 p.m.

The Oneida Bone Builders Exercise Group meets weekly on Thursdays at the Oneida Recreation Center at 10 a.m.

Call RSVP at 684-3001 if you are interested in learning more about this effective exercise program.

RSVP Bone Builders Exercise Groups 2011

Mondays: Morrisville, 10 a.m., Cornell Cooperative Extension; Cazenovia, 10 a.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church; Bridgeport, 10 a.m. Bridgeport Methodist Church

Tuesdays: DeRuyter, 10 a.m., American Legion Hall; Canastota, 1 p.m., Canastota Library

Wednesdays: Hamilton, 10 a.m., Cornerstone Baptist Church

Thursdays: Chittenango, 10 a.m., Sullivan Town Parks & Recreation; Oneida, 10 a.m., Oneida Recreation Center; Cazenovia, 10 a.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church; Bridgeport, 10 a.m., Bridgeport Methodist Church

Filed Under: Bridgeport-Lakeport, Canastota, Cazenovia, Chittenango, DeRuyter, Hamilton, Health & Medicine, Madison County Agencies and Organizations, Morrisville, Oneida, Opinion-Editorial, Sullivan Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Tubing Supports Mentoring Program

December 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Tubing with CAP

 

Adrianna Baker of DeRuyter hits the slopes at CAP’s Mentoring 2010 tubing adventure.  All are invited to join the program this Dec. 17 at Four Seasons for a fundraiser to support this important youth program.

CAP News

(Fayetteville, NY – Dec. 2011) Looking for something fun to do with the family? Take your family tubing while supporting local kids in need at the same time.

Four Seasons Golf and Ski Center, located at 8012 E. Genesee St. (Route 5) in Fayetteville, is hosting an evening of winter fun Saturday, Dec. 17 from 3 to 6 p.m. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Community Action Partnership Youth Mentoring Program.

The event will not just have tubing, there will also be music, a 50/50 raffle, and snacks will be available for purchase at concessions.

Tickets are discounted to $10 each; down from the regular price of $19. Please call (315) 697-3588 or email kkrula@capmadco.org to purchase a ticket for an evening of family fun benefiting local kids in need. Tickets are not available at the door so be sure to purchase your ticket in advance.

No snow? No problem. Four Seasons makes snow.

Tickets must be used from 3 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 17 unless the event is cancelled due to inclement weather (call Four Seasons at 637-9023 bynoonon Dec. 17 to find out if the event has been cancelled).  If cancelled due to inclement weather, tickets can be used any weeknight through the end of February.

If you are unable to attend but would like to support the program, CAP invites you to buy a ticket for one of the children in our program to attend with their family.

 

Filed Under: Calendar of Events, DeRuyter, Fun & Recreation, Madison County Agencies and Organizations, Top Stories, Youth Tagged With: ,

Objects to Magee Earning $27,000 for Land Auction

December 5, 2011 By 2 Comments

To the Editor:

(DeRuyter, NY) A couple weeks ago, I attended the Manufacturers Association of Central New York breakfast where several state representatives attended. They sat on several panels to field questions on a variety of subjects.

My main reason for going was to hear from other business people about their main concerns affecting their businesses and how our local and state government may play a part in those concerns.

The top four concerns from the manufacturing business community was the cost of 1) Workers’ Compensation; 2) mandates and regulations; 3) taxes; and 4) a diminishing qualified labor pool to draw from.

Our panel of senators and assemblymen gave typical answers of working hard for positive changes but things move slowly in Albany.

The comment made next to me was that these are the same issues talked about a decade ago. Business executives have come and gone, but the issues and representatives remain the same. Nothing was mentioned about increased competition in the areas of (1) and (4) that would help.

The politicians boasted about the last budget passed, holding the line on taxes and passing the 2-percent property tax cap. Then, Sen. David J. Valesky said although no relief for unfunded mandates was passed with the tax cap (cutting the counties, towns and schools off at the knees financially), he pointed the finger at them, saying this could be good, believing they are too bloated, needing to be trimmed down, yet he’s unable to see the three fingers pointing right back at him and Albany.

Some of us could not believe the hypocrisy we heard.

So much money has to be taxed locally to feed the spending binge of Albany, due to mandates that take 85 percent or more of the county budget (e.g., Medicaid, pensions, health insurance). Our county and town representatives are then at the mercy of begging Albany or Senator Valesky and Assemblyman Bill Magee (who never showed up for the breakfast, though endorsed by MACNY the last election) for some of that money back to fund basic services like our fire and police departments, maintain our roads and bridges and schools.

Taking Senator Valesky’s exhortation to heart, I decided to take a closer look at these bloated county and town bureaucracies and budgets he was referring to.

Property taxes only remind us who really owns our properties, so I started with the county land auction held Sept. 24 for properties seized for back taxes and the revenue received versus expenses paid. Here Assemblyman Magee did show up: as the auctioneer.

This raised a red flag with me, thinking how did he end up getting this job as a public official with the county beholden to him to get funding from Albany for basic services? Was he being compensated? And how much?

It appeared the auctioneer job had not been put out for bid for more than a decade, and no contract was in place with the county for at least that time and maybe longer. He was paid more than $27,000 for three hours of work.

Sweet!

I know for a fact that if this was put out for bid to other auctioneers, many would have done it for a flat rate of $500 to $1,000 saving the taxpayers of Madison County $26,000 in property taxes. Multiply this times 10 for the past decade, and that’s a good chuck of change that could have lowered our property taxes, currently the highest in the nation.

The next question is who at the county level was making the decision on this sweet gig for Assemblyman Magee at the expense of the taxpayers? To date, I’ve yet to get to the bottom of that, other than the Farm and Land Agency was responsible for this arrangement.

The agency says this was just an administrative oversight.

For 10 or more years? Every time there was a county land sale? Who there at the agency is in charge, and who on the Board of Supervisors had oversight of the agency? Who knew what and when? What else is being overlooked at the county level if this has gone on 10 or more years with no contract and excessive pay for services rendered?

Do I dare ask if this was actually an oversight to begin with, having lasted more than 10 years?

The county’s policy, modeled after the state, requires bidding for the acquisition of products but not services. Where is the logic in that policy? Those who deal in the private sector of business will bid out products and services. What other services are not being put out to bid that could be saving taxpayer dollars?

Could Senator Valesky’s earlier comments have some validity? How could our longterm public servant Assemblyman Magee fleece the taxpayers of Madison County regarding this matter for more than a decade? Are there others we need to look for?

In other county land auctions, does he fleece the taxpayers of Otsego County, too, that’s part of the state’s 111th Assembly District? Does he do this in any other county outside his district?

I am all for the free market enterprise where you should be able to charge whatever the market will bear, but once again, the free market was not allowed to operate by not putting this job out for bid.

This isn’t just a free market or administrative efficiency issue, though. There’s a core problem government cannot resolve.

As the lines of right and wrong are blurred or ignored entirely, slowly chipping away at values, people clamor for more laws written on the books, thinking it will curb behavior versus embracing laws written on all our hearts nurtured through a relationship with our Creator.

The author of Courageous Leadership writes:

“For eight years during the decade of the nineties I went to Washington, D.C., every month to meet in the foremost centers of power with some of the highest elected officials in our country. What I discovered was not how powerful these people are, but how limited their power really is. All they can actually do is rearrange the yard markers on the playing field of life.

“They can’t change a human heart. They can’t heal a human soul. They can’t turn hatred into love. They can’t bring about repentance, forgiveness, reconciliation, peace. They can’t get to the core problem…”

Government is rarely the answer because the law cannot change a person’s heart. Its power is limited by Divine Providence. Its purpose was to limit man’s vices but government is run by man himself. When accountability in government breaks down, we see what happens above. Rev. Jason McGuire of NYCF writes, “Even on its best day, at its greatest moments of achievement, human government leaves us longing for a greater one. Our broken government, which cannot get to the core problem, drives us to our need for the One who can.”

Shawn Skeele, DeRuyter

Editor’s note: Unfunded state mandates consume 93 percent of the Madison County tax levy, according to Madison County Board of Supervisors Chairman John M. Becker and Mark Scimone, assistant to the chairman. The fee of auctioneer Bill Magee of Nelson was not paid for by taxes remitted by residents of Madison County; Magee’s fee and auxiliary expenses of the auction were paid for through a buyer’s premium charged at the time of sale at auction.

Filed Under: Business & Finance, DeRuyter, Government & Politics, Nelson, Opinion-Editorial, Wampsville Tagged With: , , , , ,

Accident Sends Three to Hospital

December 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

(Town of Cazenovia, NY – Nov. 30, 2011) The New York State Police in Morrisville investigated a two vehicle head-on crash, which occurred on Constine Bridge Road in the Town of Cazenovia.

At 11:20 a.m. a 2003 Ford Explorer operated by Amanda Cook, 23, of 1835 Route 13, Sheds was northbound on Constine Bridge Road when she drifted into the southbound lane striking head-on a 1999 Ford F-250 pick-up truck being operated by Almon Rounsaville, 64, of Old Sheds Road, DeRuyter.

Cook was extricated from the car and was transported by Smith Ambulance to Crouse Hospital with a serious leg injury.

Rounsaville was extricated and transported by CAVAC Ambulance to University Hospital with a serious leg injury.

Almon Rounsaville Jr., 37, a passenger in the pick-up was transported by CAVAC Ambulance to University Hospital with a serious head injury.

Cook was ticketed for failure to keep right.

Both Rounsaville Jr. and Sr. were ticket for failing to wear their seatbelts.

Filed Under: Cazenovia, Cops/Crime/Courts, DeRuyter, Morrisville, Sheds Tagged With: , , ,

Former Students Arrested for Burglary at DeRuyter School Building

November 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment
P-47-2011 mccmc (Liddell)

Pictured from top is Lidell and Marks.

(DeRuyter, New Woodstock, NY – Nov. 2011) State Police in Oneida concluded a six-month investigation into a burglary occurring at the DeRuyter Central School Building, located at 711 Railroad St., DeRuyter, May 15.

Several items were taken from the school, including tools and a battery charger.

On Nov. 11, investigators arrested 20-year-old Caleb C. Lidell of 7287 Oil Mill Road, DeRuyter, for third-degree burglary, a class D felony. On Nov. 17, investigators arrested Everett G. Marks, 19, of 1769 Kinney Road, New Woodstock, also for third-degree burglary.

Both defendants were arraigned and released on their own recognizance. They are scheduled to return to court at a later date.

Filed Under: Cops/Crime/Courts, DeRuyter, New Woodstock Tagged With: , , , ,
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