Munroe to be Showcased at Caz Library

Cazenovia Public Library news

(Cazenovia, NY – Feb. 2012) Until March 31, visitors to the Cazenovia Public Library Art Gallery can enjoy “Keeping Up Appearances,” the latest collection by local artist Elizabeth Cummings Monroe. There will be an artist’s reception Friday, Feb. 10, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Cazenovia Public Library Art Gallery.

Monroe uses watercolor, inks and acrylic paint interchangeably. She begins a painting with transparent watercolor in order to achieve a luminous quality and then moves to ink and acrylic for opacity and contrast.

“My current body of work features my usual unconventional abstract style in which I have now incorporated the human figure,” Monroe said. “I am constantly mesmerized by the human body, and in the past I painted people in a more realistic style, a style that I do not particularly enjoy. Now, I have found a way to incorporate a hidden world into my abstractions. The addition of a figure or groups of figures in my painting gives an immediate focal point for my viewer, and the painting becomes a mystery, story or puzzle to solve.”

The Cazenovia Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Free transportation is available through CRIS-CAT for Cazenovia, Fenner and Nelson residents over 55 and ambulatory. Just call 655-0612 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. three to five days in advance. More information about this or other library events, call 655-9322 or visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

Lost Hikers Rescued from Park

(Town of Fenner, NY – Jan. 2012) A few tense moments ended in skilled rescue at Chittenango Falls State Park on State Route 13 Jan. 28. Sheriff’s deputies and state park police received a call reporting two hikers lost in the park just before 6 p.m.

Upon arrival, Deputies communicated with the Madison County 911 Center to get a better location of the hikers, as 911 Center personnel were in contact with one of the hikers via cell phone. Deputies drove their vehicles in the area with their emergency lights on until the hikers could see the flashes of the emergency lights, and made their way to the side of a sharp, steep hill that parallels Chittenango Creek, just north of the main park entrance.

Deputies established communication with the pair and provided instructions so they would remain safe. Chittenango, along with North Chittenango, Cazenovia and Lincoln Fire Departments responded when the call for a rope rescue was issued.

An aerial ladder truck from Chittenango Fire Department was deployed; rescuers extended the ladder over the very fast flowing creek. Rope rescue personnel crossed the creek and climbed up the hill on the other side, guiding the hikers across the ladder and to a waiting ambulance.

The hikers, Brian Abramowitz of Commack and Jenna Goldberg of Jericho, both 22, were evaluated on the scene by Cazenovia Area Volunteer Ambulance Corp due to their prolonged exposure. They were not transported to a hospital as both refused further medical treatment.

The hikers had been trying to find their way out of the park for nearly three hours when they called 911 for help.

John Ball is undersheriff of Madison County.

‘Moneyball’ to be Shown

Cazenovia Public Library news

(Cazenovia, NY – Jan. 2012) Moneyball, a film that makes baseball statistics seem fascinating, will be shown at 2 and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19 in the Cazenovia Public Library Community Room.

In Moneyball, Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane, played by Brad Pitt, challenges the system and defies conventional wisdom when he is forced to rebuild his small-market team on a limited budget. Despite opposition from the old guard, the media, fans, and their own field manager, Beane – with the help of a young, number-crunching, Yale-educated economist – develops a roster of misfits.  And along the way, he forever changes the way the game is played. (Amazon.com)

Moneyball is rated PG 13 and runs for 133 minutes. Admission and popcorn are always free.

And don’t forget that free transportation through CRIS-CAT is provided for Cazenovia, Fenner, and Nelson residents over 55 and ambulatory.  Just call 655-0612 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. three to five days in advance.

Just a note: The display cases in the front lobby of the Cazenovia Public Library are reserved for local collections.  In the past, such items as piggy banks and dolls have adorned these cases—to the delight of the library’s many visitors.  If anyone has a collection that you would like to share with the community, please call the library at 655-9322 to make arrangements.

For more information, visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org or call 655-9322.

 

College Planning Workshop Returns to Caz Library

Cazenovia Public Library news

(Cazenovia, NY – Jan. 2012) On Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 7 p.m. in the Cazenovia Public Library Community Room, families with middle school, high school or college students will have a second opportunity to join Paul Celuch, co-founder of College Assistance Plus, for an enjoyable and stimulating workshop entitled “Get a Degree…not Debt.”

The workshop will focus on how to find the right career, major and college, and then how to negotiate better deals even while enrolled in college or graduate school. Learning how the college business model works and how award decisions are made enables families and students to leverage much better deals at their college of choice.

Celuch, a national speaker on this topic, has been highlighted in the New York Times for having developed a unique specialization in this field. By using his national database and team of college experts at their Rochester national service center, better financial arrangements can be accomplished.

The workshop is free and open to the public. For more information, call (315) 655-9322 or visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

‘Contagion’ to be Shown

Adults are invited to the Cazenovia Public Library to view “Contagion,” a film that explores what global viruses mean to the human race. The film will be shown at 2 and 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, in the Library Community Room.

In Contagion Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Laurence Fishburne and Bryan Cranston, along with medical journalist Sanjay Gupta, explore the real science of global viruses. Revealed is what happens when a deadly virus is brought into the U.S. and then quickly spreads across the world.

As virologists frantically try to track down the origins of the pathogen and to find a cure, it starts to mutate, foiling every move they make (Amazon.com).

Contagion is rated PG 13 and runs for 106 minutes. Admission and popcorn are always free.

Free transportation is available through CRIS-CAT for Cazenovia, Fenner and Nelson residents over 55 and ambulatory. Call (315) 655-0612 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. three to five days in advance.

Also mark your calendar for “Moneyball,” which will be shown Jan. 19 at 2 and 6:30 p.m.

For more information on the movie schedule at the Cazenovia Public Library, call 655-9322 or visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

New book club at the Cazenovia Public Library

The Cazenovia Public Library kicks off 2012 with a newly formed book club called “The Open Book Club.”

Beginning in the Library Community Room Wednesday, Jan. 18, interested persons can meet either at 2 or 7 p.m. The group celebrates the 50th anniversary of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by choosing Harper Lee’s best-loved classic as its initial book selection. Stop by the library to pick up a copy.

To Kill a Mockingbird has earned many distinctions since its original publication in 1960. It has won the Pulitzer Prize, been translated into more than 40 languages, sold more than 40 million copies worldwide, and been made into an enormously popular movie (Amazon.com).

Following the Jan. 18 meeting, participants will decide the dates for subsequent meetings, as well as book titles.

The Open Book Club is free and open to the public. For more information, call (315) 655-9322 or visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

Snowmobile Club Prepares for Season

Weisbrod Bridge

 

George Fischer of Kirkville (left) attaches a ski rail on a new snowmobile bridge on the Weisbrod Farm near Bear Swamp Road in the town of Cazenovia, while Walt Joncas (right) of Cazenovia operates the board leveler. Derek Joncas of Chittenango is in the background.

Chittenango Polar Bears news

By Mike Fischer

(Chittenango, NY – Dec. 2011) Chittenango Polar Bears Snowmobile Club members have been busy preparing trails for the upcoming snowmobile season. Despite the lack of snow thus far, club volunteers are preparing for the season, readying the trails and installing signage.

Trails remain closed in New York state until after big game season at the earliest. In the Chittenango area, the official opening of trails in will depend upon conditions and how quickly club volunteers can complete the pre-season preparations. As always, check with the club to be sure the trails are open before riding.

“Our members are hard at work getting the trails ready for snow,” said club president Tom Hanggi.

That means repairing bridges and culverts, trimming brush, removing downed trees and placing trail signs and markers. The club reroutes portions of trails each season, as land use changes and as the club works to improve the trails and enhance safety.

Reroutes mean added expense for lumber to build new bridges, additional trail signs and posts and time and effort to clear brush and remove trees.

“We are always looking for ways to make the trails better,” Hanggi said, “whether to improve safety, minimize environmental impact or help control sled traffic.”

During the January meeting planned for Monday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m., at the Ten Pin Restaurant in Chittenango, the club will distribute raffle tickets to help with the fundraising effort necessary to pay for trail maintenance. Other agenda items include trail grants, trail development issues, safety classes and other issues.

The Chittenango Polar Bears Snowmobile Club maintains about 25 miles of trails connecting to the statewide trail system. The club’s trails run from the Erie Canal south to Pompey and Fenner and include a trailhead at Chittenango Falls State Park.

The club is a member club of the Madison County Association of Snowmobile Clubs and the New York State Snowmobile Association.

For more information, visit chittenangopolarbears.com.

Mike Fischer is volunteer publicist for the Chittenango Polar Bears Snowmobile Club.

Investigation Continues in Fenner Shooting

Madison County Sheriff’s Office

(Town of Fenner, NY – Nov. 21, 2011) Madison County Sheriff’s Office Undersheriff John Ball reported that the department received a call regarding a suicidal male in the area of Nichols Pond Park in Fenner at about 4:40 p.m. Nov. 21.

Ball said deputies responded to the scene and located the subject’s described vehicle; upon exiting their patrol vehicle, deputies said they heard shots fired.

“Deputies retreated to a safe area and called for backup,” Ball said.

He said state police and Canastota Village Police personnel also responded to assist.

According to Ball, a command post was established on Nichols Pond Road south of the park. The Sheriff’s Special Operations Unit was activated and responded to the scene and deployed in the area with specialized equipment for night vision.

The subject was quickly located on the perimeter of the park area.

Members remained stationary until assistance from the state police Aviation Unit’s helicopter arrived to provide aerial lighting, allowing the Special Operations Unit to gain visible observation of the individual.

The subject, a male estimated to be in his 50s, was found deceased shortly after 7:30 p.m.

The Madison County District Attorney’s office responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.

The deceased was transported to the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office in Syracuse.

As of press time, the identity of the victim was pending positive identification by the Onondaga County Medical Examiner and notification of next of kin.

The investigation continues.

Holiday Hours Set for Madison County Landfill and Transfer Stations

(Madison County, NY – Nov. 2011) The Madison County Landfill Operation (all sites) and the ARC MRF Recycling Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 24.

The Landfill Office on Buyea Road in the Town of Lincoln will be closed on Friday, November 25.

Great Graves of Upstate New York to be Featured

Cazenovia Public Library news

(Cazenovia, NY- Nov. 2011) Lots of history and laughs are in store when author Chuck D’Imperio of Oneonta presents “a whole new interpretation of dearly departed destinations” (Patricia Schultz) in his book Great Graves of Upstate New York.

Join him Tuesday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m., in the Cazenovia Public Library Community Room for a fun and fascinating look into some of the most famous, and infamous, figures who are buried in Upstate New York.

Many familiar Americans – and a Kentucky Derby winning horse – are buried in Upstate New York, and D’Imperio found them. Such well-known personalities as Lucille Ball, James Fenimore Cooper, Mark Twain, Kate Smith, Grandma Moses, Harriet Tubman and a host of other distinguished and famous people, including four U.S. presidents, are represented in his book.

Equally represented are some colorful characters who shaped the culture of Upstate New York, including Ann Trow Lohman, “The Wickedest Woman in New York;” Sam Patch, “The Yankee Leaper;” Annie Edson Taylor, “The Real Maid of the Mist;” and “Peg Leg” Clayton Bates, the most famous one-legged tap dancer in the world.

These are among the 70 true American legends featured in Great Graves of Upstate New York, which will be available for purchase and signing at the Nov. 22 presentation.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library and the Friends of Lorenzo, this presentation is free and open to the public. Free transportation through CRIS-CAT is provided for Cazenovia, Fenner and Nelson residents over 55 and ambulatory. Call (315) 655-0612 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. three to five days in advance.

For more information, call (315) 655-9322 or visit cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

Unofficial Madison County Election Results

(Nov. 8, 2011)

Madison County Judge (County, Surrogate’s and Family Courts) – Uncontested

Dennis K. McDermott 7,777

 

Brookfield

Town Supervisor

John Salka 402; Joshua Haar 304

 

Highway Superintendent

Rod Jennison 342; Robert Piersma 372

 

Town Council

Marylou A. Rhodes 215; Joseph H. Walker 412; Clinton A. Abrams 450; Jefferson L. Mayne 303

 

Cazenovia

Town Supervisor

Thomas J. Clarke 597; Ralph M. Monforte 853

 

Town Council

Elizabeth C. Moran 860; Jennifer Basic 822; William N. Zupan 819

 

DeRuyter

Highway Superintendent Walter C. Cook 264; John Farewell 200

 

Eaton

Town Supervisor

Priscilla Suits 312; James C. Monahan 170

 

Fenner

All races uncontested.

 

Georgetown

Highway Superintendent

Howard F. Hunter 105; Duane J. Newton 78

 

Hamilton

Town Supervisor

Eve Ann Shwartz 613; Scott Mills 504

 

Town Council

Dominick Pangallo 529; David N. Holcomb 604; Chris Rossi 563; Kerry Dart 487

 

Lebanon

All races uncontested.

 

Lenox

Town Supervisor

Rocco J. DiVeronica 874; Richard  L. Rossi 445

 

Town Council

Douglas Havens, III 485; Richard Wimmer 664; Tom Bush 750; Edward Cerasia 407

 

Lincoln

All races uncontested.

 

Madison

Town Council

Brad Dixon 244; Anne Meyering 119, Gregory M. Reuter 267

 

Nelson

Town Council

Sharon A. Driscoll 199; John LaGorga 221; John E. Laubscher 202

 

Smithfield

Town Clerk/Collector

Janice C. Sebring 105, Page B. Winn 55

 

Stockbridge

Town Council

Roy E. Meeker 129; Kyle R. Russ 78; Roland C. Shea, Sr. 121

 

Sullivan

All Races Uncontested

Oneida

(Oneida, NY – Nov. 8, 2011) With 100 percent of the votes recorded from the Madison County Board of Elections, the unofficial results for races in the city of Oneida are as follows:

Mayor

Leo Matzke – 1,118

Donald Hudson1,223

 

Ward 1 Common Council

Susan Stratton – 159

Brahim Zogby – 217

Michael F. Musacchio Jr. – 34

 

Ward 2 Common Council

David Cimpi (unopposed) – 488

 

Ward 3 Common Council

  1. A.     Max Smith (unopposed) – 264

 

Ward 4 Common Council

Michael Kaiser (unopposed) – 181

 

Ward 5 Common Council

Jim Chamberlain – 191

Brian Karst – 103

 

Ward 6 Common Council

Claudette Buss – 120

Tom Simchik – 183

 

Supervisor Wards 1, 2 and 3

John Reinhardt (unopposed) 1056

Scott Henderson (unopposed) 1055

 

Supervisor Wards 4, 5 and 6

James Rafte (unopposed) – 683

Lewis Carinci (unopposed) – 620

 

Proposition 1

Yes – 1,422

No – 772

Meet the Candidates: Campaign 2011

Vote here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pictured from top are Douglas Havens, Chris Rossi, Dominick Pangallo, John LaGorga, Jennifer Basic, John Laubscher, Joshua Haar, Linda Mather, Liz Moran, Ralph Monforte, Scott Mills, John Salka and Tom Clarke.

By Martha E. Conway

(Madison County, NY – Nov. 2011) The Courier emailed as many candidates as we could find with a few questions to give them one last opportunity to reach voters. We asked:

a. What is the most pressing issue facing the office you seek and how would you work to resolve it?

b. What is your leadership philosophy?

c. What is the most positive trend you’ve seen concerning local government-related current events or activities during the past two years?

Some responded to our questions (name is in bold); others submitted statements.

Here’s a lineup of everyone on the ballots and what some of them had to say.

Those who did not respond are marked as “did not participate” below their name.

Pictures are posted in no particular order.

 

 

Brookfield

Supervisor

Joshua Haar (Liberty)

Fellow citizens of Brookfield:

Here’s my two cents on our local political situation. Plain and simple, our town government is being run with little concern for limiting the growth of government and the tax burden on the citizens of Brookfield.

Over the past two years, this has been amply demonstrated. Rather than just finding fault, I’ll offer a solution: this time, elect a new supervisor. Regarding my capability for the job, you don’t end up with a 4.0 in accounting by not being able to balance revenues and expenditures.

Regarding my platform, here’s my view on the growth of government. As Americans, we have established our government to preserve the conditions necessary for us to prosper, delegating to it limited authority. Over the years, primarily at the national and state levels, broad interpretations of this role have resulted in a massive governmental structure that lowers us ever deeper into debt in order to finance the government’s expansion.

This same expansion of power and expense is becoming a concern at the local level, as well.

I oppose adding responsibilities to Brookfield’s government (having the government “help out” in new areas) because that can hardly result in the lower taxes or simplified regulations that are essential to our rural way of life.

If elected, I’ll work to keep taxes down and the town government in line. I’m perfectly comfortable with the job of representing this town at the county and state levels, and I won’t try to transform Brookfield into some suburban paradise, complete with homes magnificent enough and incomes large enough to contribute thousands in taxes without noticing it.

We’ll keep our cabins in the woods (most of us, anyway), thank you.

I welcome questions or comments; email me at jhaar13@student.mvcc.edu or call me at (315) 855-4465.

John Salka (Brookfield Republicans, Madison County Independence Party, Madison County Conservative Party)

The most pressing issue is how to keep our town intact financially and still maintain the wonderful rural lifestyle we enjoy. I feel that bringing all together to brainstorm on how we can make the best use of scarce resources is not only the best option, but also makes for good government.

My leadership philosophy is making sure that the members of a community are involved, informed and enlightened. For instance, I instituted a relatively simple practice of holding town board meetings in all three parts of the township, and it has been a success. People feel that government is coming to them, and although I would always like to see better attendance from positive, well-intended members of the town, we are always respectful of those that show up and voice their opinion.

Our town website and public signboard at the town hall is also a key to keeping people informed.

As far as positive trends, in the town of Brookfield we have been building a Comprehensive Plan that has given the opportunity for our community to become involved on how we are planning for the future of Brookfield.

Part of the plan involved sending out a survey to the community with very well thought-out questions on what people think we should do for the future of our town. It was very successful, and we are able to use that data to lay the groundwork to determine the best direction in which to take our town.

I will continue to offer the citizens of Brookfield mature, responsible and conservative leadership that is responsive to the needs of our town and is able to cope with an ever-changing fiscal environment. Small towns are the bread and butter of what this country is all about, and we need to fight for them every day.

Thank you.

Highway Superintendent

Roderick B. Jennison

Endorsed by the Democratic, Conservative, People’s Choice and Independence parties

My name is rod Jennison; my name appears on the November ballot, and I am seeking your support for a second term as highway superintendent for the town of Brookfield.

In the last two years, I have worked diligently with the Brookfield Town Council to provide the best possible services while at the same tie keeping costs to you, the taxpayer, down as much as possible.

We have upgraded some of the equipment at the highway garage and cut expenses such as our debt service – reduced $1,000 a year, the equipment repair line reduced $10,000 a year, and there is a good possibility that there may be money left in this line at year’s end.

At this time, there is $32,000 in the snow removal line and approximately $20,000 in the payroll line that should roll over into the town’s saving account at year’s end.

As your highway superintendent, I will continue to work hard to provide safe travel for you and your family, at the same time respecting the costs to you, the taxpayer.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Robert J. Piersma

Did not participate.

Council

Clinton A. Abrams

Did not participate.

Jefferson L. Mayne

Did not participate.

Marylou A. Rhodes

Did not participate.

Joseph H. Walker

Did not participate.

Cazenovia

Supervisor

Thomas J. Clarke (Democratic, Strong Community)

There are two equally pressing issues in Cazenovia: the possibility of [hydraulic fracturing] operations in the town and maintaining the health and quality of Cazenovia Lake. [Hydraulic fracturing] is a serious concern and information about its legality, safety and hazards to the environment are constantly changing.

Currently, there is no case law regarding bans on [hydraulic fracturing] operations and municipalities may not specifically target them. To ensure the wellbeing of our rural community, Cazenovia should begin now to put in place protective measures that will limit any adverse effects, such as water and soil contamination, wastewater disposal, safety issues, impact on emergency services, road damage, noise, air pollution and visual disruption.

Cazenovia Lake is a critical natural and recreational resource for the community. In the past two years, the lake has been treated twice for Eurasian milfoil infestation. Another treatment will occur next spring. Plans to mitigate additional infestation should be prepared quickly to ensure the long term health of the lake.

The town council must work cooperatively with the village, Cazenovia Lake Association and other community groups to prepare a long-term maintenance and funding plan for Cazenovia Lake, including sewers around the lake.

This will require substantial research into costs, viable systems and impact on the environment and neighborhoods. Public participation will be essential. Fighting for the lake’s healthy future will require a community effort.

My leadership philosophy is one of consultation, cooperation and consensus-building, all of which are necessary for meaningful progress in Cazenovia and Madison County. The town supervisor serves as chair of the town board and represents Cazenovia on the Madison County Board of Supervisors. Decisions by both boards should be made openly with opportunities for the public to express ideas and concerns. I am a good listener, respectful of differing opinions and committed to effective follow-through.

The most positive trend I’ve observed about government-related events and activities in the last several years is the interest in local government that has been demonstrated by Cazenovia town residents. Planning board meetings and town public hearings are well-attended, and residents are enthusiastic about serving on various committees.

To reinforce that interest, I will solicit advice and counsel from Cazenovia residents using scheduled office hours and print and electronic media to keep the community informed about public issues. The life and vitality of Cazenovia depend on the energy, interest, enthusiasm and contributions of its residents.

Another equally positive trend in local government is consideration of sharing services among municipalities. In a demanding economic environment, fiscal scrutiny is crucial. Taxpayers expect the most effective use of their tax dollars.

Wherever services, such as highway departments, courts, billing and purchasing can be shared efficiently, it is useful to examine cost benefits and effectiveness. Boundaries should be invisible when neighboring municipalities benefit from cooperative undertakings.

Ralph M. Monforte (Republican, Independence, Conservative)

The most pressing issue facing the office I seek is to balance the rights of land owners while keeping in mind the needs of our community as a whole. Oftentimes, the legislation that has been put in place, such as the laws governing development in the lake watershed or the commercial areas that have been identified in the Comprehensive Plan, have produced results that have unintentional and costly impacts on people’s lives.

My plans for resolution of this issue is to continually review legislation that is in place as the needs for development in our community arise and, where appropriate, seek remedies or recommendations for change.

My leadership philosophy is simple: Give, get or get out.

The most positive trend I have seen has been the local resident entrepreneur choosing to invest in their communities by building or relocating their businesses here and creating fiscal opportunities and quality of life for their neighbors. They are our best source for economic stability going forward.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Linda Mather (Republican)

Submission courtesy Cazenovia Republican Committee

Linda has committed 24 years to serving the people of Cazenovia. As our town clerk for more than two decades, Linda’s responsibilities also included tax collector, registrar of vital statistics, records management officer, records access officer, NYS Town Clerk’s Association, and NYS Tax Collectors Association.

Linda’s constant attention to detail has worked well to serve the people of Cazenovia for many years. Her dedication and personal effort in everything she does is greatly reflected in the results she obtains.

Linda has become a familiar face to all for a reason. She is trustworthy, attentive, detailed and thorough in all that she does.

Linda and her husband Walt raised two children and reside in New Woodstock. She is a life resident of the town of Cazenovia.

Council

Jennifer Basic (Republican)

Submission courtesy Cazenovia Republican Committee

Jen is a local business owner, mother of three, and longtime resident of Cazenovia. In addition, she is currently serving her fifth year on the Cazenovia Town Planning Board. It is because of these life experiences that Jen has firsthand knowledge of community and family concerns, local business owner concerns and wider community development issues.

Additionally, Jen’s husband Joe grew up working on his family’s dairy farm (which is still in operation), giving her a strong respect for the farming heritage of our community.

Over the years, Jen has served on many local boards ranging from the library board, to Caz Forum, to president of the Madison County Bar Association.

These experiences have given Jen the opportunity to hear many perspectives from people in our community on numerous issues. As an attorney, her education, experience as a parent with young children in our schools, time on the planning board during the era ushering in the enforcement of the Comprehensive Plan, sensitivity to our history as a farming community, along with her experience as a local business owner provide Jen with a unique skill set to serve on the town board.

Elizabeth C. Moran (Democratic, Strong Community)

The issues facing the town of Cazenovia relate to wise stewardship of our natural resources and growth management. With the property tax cap in place, we will face tough choices in the future.

My professional background will help the town board implement the next phases of the Cazenovia Lake restoration effort, and my previous public service will help us craft effective and fair policies to encourage growth and investment in the community.

My leadership philosophy is to listen well, gather information from all sides and make rational, not ideological, decisions. My previous record attests to my fair and effective leadership skills.

Over the past two years, Cazenovia has begun to see the positive outcome of our immersion in planning and zoning revisions. New commercial activity has finally begun on Route 20, and without the contentious debate that hampered previous efforts.

We have also had more open and frequent conversations about shared services, and the possibility of eventual consolidation of the town and village.

William N. Zupan (Democratic, Strong Community)

Did not participate.

DeRuyter

Supervisor

Daniel S. Degear (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Rebecca M. Wightman (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Walter C. Cook (Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

John Farewell (Republican, Good Neighbor)

Did not participate.

Town Justice

John A. Fox (Republican)

Did not participate.

Town Council

Cedric M. Barnes, Jr, (Republican)

Did not participate.

Edwin B. Coon (Republican)

Did not participate.

Eaton

Supervisor

James C. Monahan (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Priscilla Suits (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Larry J. Phillips II, (Democratic, Country Roads)

Did not participate.

Council

Ellen M. Andros (Democratic, Good Neighbor)

Did not participate.

Richard DePuy (Republican)

Did not participate.

Fenner

Supervisor

Russell L. Cary (Republican, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk

Joanne E. Buyea (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Frank M. Hyatt (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

David R. Jones (Republican)

Did not participate.

William W. Wester (Republican)

Did not participate.

Tax Collector

Sharon E. Larkin (Republican)

Did not participate.

Georgetown

Supervisor

David Coye (Republican)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Sarah Brush (Democratic, Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Howard F. Hunter (Democratic, Happy Roads)

Did not participate.

Duane J. Newton (Republican, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Justice

Ronald Hailston (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Paul H. Walrod (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Bart C. Chapin (Local Citizens)

Did not participate.

Hamilton

Supervisor

Scott Mills (Republican, Hometown)

The most pressing issue locally is the town budget and the ensuing 30-plus-percent tax rate increase. I served on the town council for 12 years as councilman and deputy supervisor. I always looked at expenditures and issues facing the town as carefully as possible.

We maintained a replacement schedule for equipment that allowed the town to never have the need to borrow money. This approach allowed 100 percent of taxpayer capital to pay for services instead of debt service.

It also allowed us to have a steady budget without huge increases in the tax rate from year to year.

If we did not deplete our line items in the budget, we used the savings to set some reserve funds aside for a financial cushion.

This budgeting and spending plan only works if you keep expenditures to a minimum, especially something for which you may not have budgeted.

The present issues with the budget and the huge budget increase has more to do with a total new majority on council and the length of time needed to get up to speed. There has been a large turnover of bookkeeping budgeting staff that has led to a poor snapshot for budgeting.

The solution is reducing the politics affecting town business and hire one qualified person; even with a qualified person, it will not be a fast fix. The town with the right mix of people on the board will move past this and get the financial part of the town government in order.

Other than this town government issue, we live in a great area and have much going for us regionally.

Eve Ann Shwartz (Democratic, Good Government)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Catherine S. Hotaling (Republican, Hometown)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Bert F. Glazier (Democratic, Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Kerry Dart (Republican, Hometown)

Did not participate

David N. Holcomb (Republican, Hometown)

Did not participate.

Dominick Pangallo (Democratic, Good Government)

In Hamilton, the dual challenges brought about by the poor bookkeeping and budgeting practices of the past – which has resulted in a tough current budget and tax situation today – and the completely botched 2011 town-wide property revaluation will require competent and proactive leadership to remedy.

By working together in a civil and positive fashion, we can implement all of the Office of the State Comptroller’s audit recommendations to get our town back on track, end unfair tax practices and rebuild Hamilton’s finances.

Further, we must ensure that all future reappraisal contracts are awarded to the lowest qualified bidder, that the appraiser is respectful in his or her interactions with our citizens and that the assessment and appeals processes are conducted in a more objective and equitable fashion.

Finally, Hamilton must establish a town website, so residents can easily learn about upcoming hearings and meetings, access public documents (including monthly and annual town financial statements, meeting agendas and minutes) and find out how to contact their elected representatives.

My leadership philosophy is informed by my graduate studies in public administration and my volunteer efforts with local community groups in Hamilton like the Public Library, the Palace Theater, and the Parents Advisory Committee of the Chenango Nursery School.

I believe strongly in a collaborative, citizen-led government that engages all residents, is respectful of all stakeholders and their opinions and interests that leads to well-planned policy decisions considering the short-term desires of residents and the long-term fiscal health of the town.

There have been three positive trends I would like to continue and grow further if elected to the town council. The first is the large-scale citizen participation in local government following the bungled revaluation; while the goal is to have civic engagement be positive and civil. Any time citizens become more involved in the political process, our democracy is ultimately strengthened.

Second, the current town government has come together across party lines to support a tough, but ultimately fiscally prudent, budget and tax levy for 2012. Finally, good progress has begun to be made in terms of shared services, both through formal agreements and informal collaboration between town and village governments.

More can be done, however, and we must plan for a future of mandates and policies from the county and state that require our towns to be more innovative in how they work with other governments to share services and cut costs, partner with non-governmental local stakeholders and organizations and seek grants and other non-tax funding to lessen the burden on our taxpayers.

Chris Rossi (Democratic, Good Government)

Hamilton is emerging from a past of poor accounting practices that created confusion in the budget process. This was further complicated by a well-intentioned but unsustainable tax dip last year leading to a substantial projected tax raise for 2012.

In addition, Hamilton recently suffered a badly managed property revaluation resulting in an inequitable assessment. There is a long history of missteps with the budget and the revaluation that stretch across party lines.

Fortunately, we can learn from these mistakes and work together to make sure they do not happen again. The Office of the State Comptroller has provided us with guidelines to get our budgeting process back on track, ensure fairness in how we tax and plan for the future.

In terms of the revaluation, we will need to do another to rectify the inequities created in the 2011 process. As with all future appraisals, we need to hire a truly qualified bidder (not just the lowest) and make sure the process is done in a fair, predictable and transparent manner.

Working with my community as co-chair of STOP NYRI has greatly shaped my leadership philosophy. We won the power line fight by doing our homework, clearly communicating what we learned and working together with all members of our town toward a common goal.

That open and inclusive community participation in local government is something I want to foster. Key to this effort is involving citizens as partners in shaping the future of their town through open and accessible meetings, the creation of citizen task forces and the use of a town website to ensure easy access to information and resources.

The mistakes of the past have made divisions in our town. There is already good work being done to better our community and bring people together. During the revaluation, citizens first alerted town government to the unfairness of the process then volunteered their time to help each other understand and navigate the appeals and grievances.

More recently, the current board has made a good start in working together in a bi-partisan effort to make the needed corrections to our budget and accounting practices following recommendations from the State Comptroller’s 2009 audit. We need to expand on these inclusive and engaged efforts to better plan for Hamilton’s future and the challenges it will bring.

Lebanon

Supervisor

James S. Goldstein (Democratic, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Nicole Viera (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Alex P. Hodge (Democratic, Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Marie Morgan (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Carol A. King (Democratic, Republican)

Did not participate.

Lenox

Supervisor

Rocco J. DiVeronica (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Richard L. Rossi (Friendship)

Did not participate.

Town Justice

Edward A. Pokorny (Republican)

Did not participate.

Grace E. Rapasadi (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Tom Bush (Republican)

Did not participate.

Edward Cerasia (Independence)

Did not participate.

Douglas Havens, III (Democratic)

For me, the most pressing issue is transparency. We are very open now, but I feel that the town council should lead the way in being as open, honest and available to our community as it can be.

That is why I want to modernize the conduct of town meetings, making it so that they can be viewed live from anyone’s home computer. Everyone would have the ability to give us their opinions and ideas for all issues.

My leadership philosophy is a team approach, working with others to get the job done. There are wonderful people with terrific ideas about how to make our community better. By getting out once a month to talk about the issues, I feel that their ideas can be easily passed to the board to help develop our community for the future.

The town of Lenox has done an excellent job of keeping taxes low and taking care of many people. Mr. DiVeronica, Mr. Hadyk and Mr. Palamara have been great board members; I feel that I can easily work with them to continue to improve our town.

I am young, ambitious and have a great vision for growth in our community. Canastota and the town of Lenox used to be a center of activity due to the Erie Canal and railroad, and I think we can bring that back once again.

There is opportunity for business to move into our community, with the Thruway right here in town, and the prospect for outdoor parks that all community members could enjoy.

Given our central location, I would love to see a community college, or SUNY college satellite office be established in our community.

Richard Wimmer (Republican)

Did not participate.

Lincoln

Supervisor

Darrin P. Ball (Republican, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk (two-year vacancy)

Linda A. Happle (Republican)

Did not participate.

Town Justice

H. T. Kissel (Republican)

Did not participate.

Robert B. Sturdevant, Jr. (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Heather A. Eddy (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Wayne B. Hertel (Republican)

Did not participate.

Madison

Town Justice

Mike Hynes (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Council

Brad Dixon (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Anne Meyering (Democratic)

The most pressing issue is to find ways to continue to provide services essential to the safety and health of the residents of the town of Madison with limited revenue.

My leadership philosophy is to provide as many occasions as possible for the views of the broadest possible array of residents to be heard on issues before the town of Madison, including town meetings and Internet communication.

The most important positive trend in local government in the town of Madison is a recognition that cooperation and commitment to the common interests of all residents are essential to achieve the best use of limited resources.

Gregory M. Reuter (Republican, Independence)

Did not participate.

Madison County

Madison County Judge (County, Surrogate’s and Family Courts)

Dennis K. McDermott (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Nelson

Supervisor

Roger D. Bradstreet (Democratic, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Deborah J. Costello (Republican, Good Neighbor)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

John R. Sevier, Jr. (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Sharon A. Driscoll (Democratic)

Did not participate.

John LaGorga (Democratic)

I believe the town of Nelson is currently governed and managed satisfactorily. I am seeking the town board position not because I have an agenda or to make significant changes, but rather as a means to serve my community and to share my 20 years of experience as a municipal-civil engineer specializing in water, wastewater and storm water-related projects.

I believe the most pressing issue, or my greatest responsibility as a town board member, is to create, adopt and implement a cost-efficient budget. I will help create the most cost-efficient budget by applying proven business practices to our municipal budget. These practices rely on understanding the true life-cycle costs of our town’s assets and applying this knowledge to get the most out of our assets for the least cost.

I have applied these practices for other municipalities as a municipal-civil engineer, and I look forward to applying them in the town of Nelson. I will also encourage shared services to create a cost-efficient budget. From my professional experience, I have witnessed municipalities formally and informally sharing services, such as seeking unit price contracts together or sharing a piece of equipment.

Shared service is different from consolidation. As a town board member I will encourage shared services and engage in discussions about consolidation, but I am not currently an advocate for consolidation.

By using asset management practices and encouraging shared service, I seek to create a cost effective town budget.

In terms of leadership style, I am a true democratic leader. I seek consultation and input from stakeholders, and I thoughtfully deliberate on this input to make decisions. I am well-practiced at listening to people and taking the time to understand their point of view or input.

I am also well-practiced at evaluating input, which allows me to make informed and thoughtful decisions. Although the process of seeking and receiving input may appear indecisive, I contend that this is a critical part of the municipal decision-making process and leads to decisive decisions and actions.

I am pleased with our town’s comprehensive planning effort and how it has led to our new town of Nelson Land Use and Development Law. I appreciate the hard work that was put forth to update the town’s Comprehensive Plan and create the new zoning law.

I believe the comprehensive planning process has set the town on a sustainable and successful path forward, and I am fully committed to “preserving the town’s rural agrarian culture, image and practices, while protecting the many sensitive environmental, cultural and historic resources, as well as promoting and supporting a sustainable local economy.”

John E. Laubscher (Republican)

The most pressing issue is budget and revenue. I would work with all parties to minimize spending, investigate grant opportunities, and focus our resources on maintaining infrastructure. To understand the equipment assets and infrastructure needs to allow long range planning. To work towards having the necessary cash reserves on hand as required.

Lead by example, walking the walk before talking the talk!

That everyone has value, to listen to others and understand them.

That everyone one has individual rights, and to respect everyone and their opinions.

To do the necessary research to make good, sound, common sense recommendations and decisions.

Regarding any positive current or recent trending, nothing seems to be remarkably different or improved. A number of items have been discussed and some brought to resolution as have happened in the past. A goal for improvement would be to get more public input in decision-making.

Oneida

Mayor

Donald W. Hudson (Republican, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Leo Matzke (Democratic, Working Families, Independence)

Did not participate.

City Chamberlain

Nancy Andrews (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Supervisor Wards 1-3

Scott A. Henderson (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

John A. Reinhardt (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Supervisor Wards 4-6

James V. Rafte, Sr. (Democratic, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Lewis Carinci (Democratic, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 1

Susan Stratton (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Brahim Zogby (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 2

David Cimpi (Republican, Independence)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 3

A. Max Smith (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 4

Michael Kaiser (Democratic, Working Families)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 5

Jim Chamberlain (Democratic, Working Families)

Did not participate.

Brian E. Karst (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Council Ward 6

Claudette Buss (Democratic, Independence)

Did not participate.

Thomas L. Simchik (Republican, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Smithfield

Supervisor

Richard O. Bargabos (Republican)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Page B. Winn (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Janice C. Sebring (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Jason D. DeGroat (Republican, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Town Justice

Harriet H. McNamara (Republican)

Council

Karen Huller Pitts (Republican)

Did not participate.

James A. Zophy, III (Republican)

Did not participate.

Stockbridge

Supervisor

Alexander R. Stepanski (Republican)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Cami L. Kiehn (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Peter R. Kiehn, Sr. (Republican)

Did not participate.

Council

Roy E. Meeker (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Kyle R. Russ (Democratic)

Did not participate.

Roland C. Shea, Sr. (Republican)

To all the voters of the town of Stockbridge, I have served as your town councilman for the last four years, attending every meeting, along with special meetings.

I have worked to improve the playground in Carlon Field and Love Memorial Park with some grants and town money, supported new equipment for the Highway Department, road and bridge improvements and have worked to improve

Sullivan

Supervisor

John M. Becker (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector

Charlotte A. Ferstler (Republican)

Did not participate.

Highway Superintendent

Elwin C. Centner, Jr. (Republican, Conservative)

Did not participate.

Council

William S. Cole (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate.

John E. Brzuszkiewicz (Republican, Conservative, Independence)

Did not participate

Election Day Dinners Planned

Rotary to hold Annual Pancake/French Toast Day

(Canastota) The Canastota Rotary Club will host its annual Election Day Pancake/French Toast Day Nov. 8 at the Rusty Rail. The all-you-can-eat meal will be served from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Adult meals cost $7; children pay $4 and children younger than 5 eat free.

Grace Lutheran to hold Election Day dinner

(Canastota) The Annual Election Day Chicken and Biscuit Dinner will be held Nov. 8 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church.

Adults pay $8; a small portion is $6 and children 4 and younger eat free.

The church is located at 3965 Carter Road (corner of Route 13 and Carter Road).

Eat-in or take-out meals available.

For more information, call 697-2128.

Fenner Church Plans Roast Beef Dinner

(Town of Fenner, NY) The Fenner Community Church will hold a roast beef Election Day dinner with all the fixings beginning at noon.

The cost is $8.

Election Day Spaghetti Dinner Planned

(Oneida, NY – Nov. 8, 2011) The Oneidas Club will host its annual Election Day spaghetti dinner Nov. 8 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Madison House Restaurant on Madison Street in Oneida.

Tickets are $9 each and available from any member of at Gates Cole Insurance.

Kids under 5 eat free.

 

Fenner Church Service Features Bluegrass Gospel

(Town of Fenner, NY – Oct. 2011) The Fenner Community Church will hold a service at 7 p.m. Sunday Oct. 30. Richard and Linda Curtis will have a message and Bluegrass Gospel  Music will be performed.

Light refreshments and fellowship will follow.