By Laurie Fuess

(Madison County, NY – Jan. 2012) Congratulations to Myron Smith of Munnsville, who was re-elected to represent farmers from Lenox, Lincoln, Oneida, Stockbridge and Sullivan on the County Committee. FSA thanks the producers who voted in this year’s election.

The county committee system works only because of your participation. The committee held its organizational meeting immediately after the election; Smith was elected chairman; Donna Griffin of Cazenovia, vice chairwoman and Charles Blood of Hubbardsville as regular member.

Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments

SURE provides crop disaster assistance payments to eligible producers on farms that have incurred crop revenue losses due to natural disaster during crop year 2010. The program takes into consideration crop losses on all crops grown by a producer nationwide.

SURE provides assistance in an amount equal to 60 percent of the difference between the SURE farm guarantee and total farm revenue.

Signup ends June 1; if you suffered any crop losses in 2010 call (315) 824-9076 ext. 2 for more information.

2011 Commodity Loans Available

If you grew corn, wheat, oats, barley or soybeans in 2011 and still have them stored on your farm, you could be eligible for a marketing assistance loan with us. These loans are a great marketing tool for you.

These are nine-month loans with very low interest rates: 1.125 percent for a loan obtained in January. Loan rates are per bushel: $2.11 for corn, $4.99 for soybeans, $1.35 for oats, $1.73 for barley and $2.54.

Give us a call for more information.

Foreign Buyers Notification

The Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Actrequires all foreign owners of U.S. agricultural land to report their holdings to the Secretary of Agriculture. FSA administers this program for USDA.

All individuals who are not U.S. citizens and have purchased or sold agricultural land in the county are required to report the transaction to FSA within 90 days of closing. Failure to submit AFIDA Form FSA-153 could result in civil penalties of up to 25 percent of the fair market value of the property.

County government offices, realtors, attorneys and others involved in real estate transactions are reminded to notify foreign investors of these reporting requirements.

DCP Signup Begins Jan. 23 and Ends June 1

FSA will compute the 2012 Direct and Counter-Cyclical Payment Program payments using base acres and payment yields established for each farm. Payments on these contracts will be made after Oct. 1. Signup is beginning later this year, and we have almost 600 contracts to enroll in this program, so don’t wait until the last minute; call now for an appointment.

Laurie Fuess is county executive director, USDA Farm Service Agency.

(Canastota, Stockbridge, NY – Jan. 2012) The Madison-Oneida BOCES Early Childhood Program has announced registration dates for children in the Canastota and Stockbridge Valley districts planning to begin pre-kindergarten in the fall of 2012. Children must turn 4 on or before Dec. 1, 2012 to be eligible for enrollment.

Registration dates are:

Canastota families: Thursday, Jan. 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Peterboro Street Elementary School, room 115

Stockbridge Valley families: Monday, Jan. 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Stockbridge Valley Elementary School

Parents must bring to registration: their children’s birth certificates and immunization records as well as proof of residency in the district (a current mortgage statement, lease agreement or utility bill, for example). Application packets are available at your local elementary school or by visiting moboces.org.

For more information, call the Early Childhood office at 361-5903.

(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.

(Nov. 2011) The Madison-Oneida BOCES Career and Technical Education Department recently released the names of honor roll students for the first marking period.

High Honor Roll (90 to 100 percent)

Canastota Central School District

Traci K Abel-Graphic Design; Jordan J Becker-Auto Body Repair; Brittany A Boisen-Equine & Animal Science; Joel M Campanie-Criminal Justice; Gavin Campbell-Engineering New Visions; Danielle R Carpenter-Cosmetology; Kevin Carpenter-Engineering New Visions; Ashley J Cassano-Pre-Nursing; Justice C Clark-Pre-Nursing; Brionna L Coleman-Pre-Nursing; Jeremiah Depasquale-Carpentry; Chelsea Dickenson-New Ventures; Desirea A Douglass-Early Childhood Education; Erica M Galavotti-Pre-Nursing; Zachary M Hannan-Graphic Design; Bradley W Hibbard-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Jessica Hofmeister-New Ventures; Kaliegh Larmer-Engineering New Visions; Nicole Lasnicki-New Ventures; Racheal L McAllister-Graphic Design; Vincent C Offutt Jr.-Carpentry; Tracy O’Hern-Engineering New Visions; Kyle R Oram-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Ryan E Pedersen-Engineering Science; Samantha M Pulverenti-Criminal Justice; Schuyler D Robertson-Auto Body Repair; Katelyn Rounds-Allied Health Partnership; Donald J Rouse-Auto Body Repair; Michael Russitano-Allied Health Partnership; Jasmine F Shimer-Criminal Justice; Logan E Smith-Allied Health Partnership; Sonya R Smith-Equine & Animal Science; Ronald J Vaccaro-Engineering New Visions; Nicholas Wilcox-Engineering New Visions; Ryan M Wisinski-Carpentry; Greg Zupan-Engineering New Visions

Hamilton Central School District

Josephine Jimenez-Criminal Justice; Matthew T Peckham-Foundations of High School Math; Emily M Powrie-Cosmetology; Cody D Smith-Foundations of High School Math; Tina Stagaman-Foundations of High School Math; Teanna Wilcox-Foundations of High School Math; Jared K Winterrose-Graphic Design; Kaylee Winterrose-Foundations of High School Math

Madison Central School District

Brandon Dapson-Heavy Equipment Operation; Skyler Glouse-Carpentry; Tyler Langbein-Engineering New Visions; Christian M Patterson-Graphic Design; Kristal Sherman-Auto Body Repair

Morrisville-Eaton Central School

Joseph J Abbott-Criminal Justice; Douglas C Boyden-Auto Body Repair; Kayla A Branch-Early Childhood Education; DaVaun J Chandler-Carpentry; Alexander Clark-Computer Programming; Joseph M Ducey-Graphic Design; Abby L Hastings-New Ventures; Kasey L Holbert-Early Childhood Education; Taylor E Leonard-Early Childhood Education; Lucas D MacLaury-Graphic Design; Amanda L Mason-Criminal Justice; Alyssa Matuszczak-Allied Health Partnership; Olivia Q McAdams-Health Professions; MariBett P Montanye-Nurse Assisting; Dylan P Perry-Carpentry; Victoria R Phillips-Criminal Justice; Thomas L Strong III-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Destiny L Vaill-Criminal Justice

Oneida City School District

Molly A Bartlett-Pre-Nursing; Edmond J Beardsley-Auto Body Repair; Kelsey L Besock-Criminal Justice; Annaliese Clements-New Ventures; Candra Connelly-Allied Health Partnership; Anai J Cortes-Graphic Design; Dalton P Denty-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Samantha M Dick-Criminal Justice; Ryan Duke-Allied Health Partnership; Zachery T Ebersold-Criminal Justice; Frederick J Edick-Auto Body Repair; Christopher J Femia-Auto Body Repair; Adam K Fenner-Auto Body Repair; Geoffrey M Garrison-Criminal Justice; Brandon T Hall-Criminal Justice; Kayla M Happle-Equine & Animal Science; Carley R Herb-Engineering New Visions; Shannon L Hollenbeck-Graphic Design; Andrea E Kodya-Criminal Justice; Tyler Mallinder-Allied Health Partnership; Eric Merrell-Allied Health Partnership; Carley Parker-Engineering New Visions; Craig A Pollack-Graphic Design; Tyler J Reed-Engineering Science; Andrew P Rogers-Carpentry; Nathaniel J Thurber-Criminal Justice; Samantha E Tucker-Criminal Justice; Carissa A VanDusen-Equine & Animal Science; Kathaleen Vineall-Health Professions; Ashley M Warner-Nurse Assisting; Khristopher K Wesolowski-Graphic Design

Stockbridge Valley Central School

Christopher M Baker-Heavy Equipment Operation; Cody L Collins-Criminal Justice; Reyanne Dailey-Cosmetology; Taylor N Denison-Cosmetology; Dale Durant-New Ventures; Makayla Glauer-Allied Health Partnership; Shiel Lamb-Graphic Design; Samantha Manaseri-Criminal Justice; Brooke A McCarthy-Cosmetology; Matthew Papa-Engineering Science; Brandon Pupp-Engineering Science; Randi Jean Sheldon-Early Childhood Education; Justin M Sirles-Criminal Justice; Tyler Smith-Auto Body Repair; Danielle Smith-Equine & Animal Science; Ryan M Thorna-Engineering Science; Kayla M Weismore-Equine & Animal Science; Kevin D Wilkins-Career Exploration I; Alyson Wilson-Health Professions

Honor Roll (85 to 89 percent)

Canastota Central School District

Tyler J Abel-Heavy Equipment Operation; Drew Arnold-Criminal Justice; Mark M Baer-Carpentry; Cheyanne M Bateman-Equine & Animal Science; Kimberlee Brown-Cosmetology; Brandon M Claflin-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Donna M Compoli-Cosmetology; Brandon Crawford-Career Exploration II; Christina T Grosjean-Cosmetology; Myranda M Hayes-Computer Programming; Lacy L Jennison-Nurse Assisting; Katlyn E Kelly-Equine & Animal Science; Nathan King-Criminal Justice; Robert T Montefusco-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Jordan L Pannell-Criminal Justice; Stephanie B Patterson-Cosmetology; Courtney B Pell-Health Professions; Chris Polisse-Career Exploration II; Kaleb Raufer-Career Exploration I; Shaun M Renfer-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Rebecca J Sobotka-Vocational Technical Preparation; Mckenna Somers-Cosmetology; Amber Swanson-Cosmetology; Alisa M Thayer-Early Childhood Education; Paul M Thornton-Carpentry; Nathanial Trost-Automotive Technology; John A Tupper-Carpentry; Brian M Whitcombe-Heavy Equipment Operation; Joseph Whitehead Jr.-Graphic Design

Hamilton Central School District

Hanna E Carpenter-Equine & Animal Science; Shannon Heath-Early Childhood Education; Edwin Heath-Carpentry; Karch D Manley-Conservation; Rebecca L Schneider-Equine & Animal Science; Mason J Seitz-Foundations of High School Math; Mason J Seitz-Foundations of CTE; Cody M Smith-Heavy Equipment Operation; Randell A Staelens-Auto Body Repair; Tina Stagaman-Foundations of CTE; Teanna Wilcox-Foundations of CTE; Shayne Winton-Foundations of CTE; Shayne Winton-Foundations of High School Math

Madison Central School District

Shana M Biedermann-Early Childhood Education; Dylan Cook-Automotive Technology; Cassandra M Derby-Early Childhood Education; Hunter D Roberts-Heavy Equipment Operation; Mindy S Smith-Cosmetology; Bradley Sweet-Criminal Justice; Alexandria M Totten-Cosmetology; Mitchell Van Ormer-Electrical/HVAC

Morrisville-Eaton Central School

Justice Armstrong-Cosmetology; Allen J Bailey-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Joshua K Boyden-Heavy Equipment Operation; Kilee M Buell-Health Professions; Dylan M Clark-Automotive Technology; Michaela L Clark-Equine & Animal Science; James A Graham-Carpentry; Justin R Lewis-Graphic Design; Cody Logan-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Devon Manaseri-Heavy Equipment Operation; Molly T Moran-Health Professions; Madeline Peckham-Equine & Animal Science; Katherine E Pelton-Early Childhood Education; Nickolas A Raymond-Heavy Equipment Operation

Oneida City School District

Aubrey J Ambrosio-Cosmetology; Chelsea A Baum-Cosmetology; Andrew G Bavo-Automotive Technology; Jonathan C Bouchard-Auto Body Repair; Keirsten L Burton-Early Childhood Education; Kaley E Casler-Graphic Design; Alexandra K Dailey-Cosmetology; Garrett A Hopper-Computer Programming; Brenna M Jones-Cosmetology; Brent Kearney-Culinary Arts; Tyler M Lancette-Graphic Design; Abrina P Leahey-Equine & Animal Science; Paige Lerch-Career Exploration II; Lindsey K Loucks-Automotive Technology; Angelo D Manzella-Heavy Equipment Operation; Justin D Miller-Automotive Technology; Rosemarie Musolino-Early Childhood Education; Michael A Reesh-Computer Programming; Julie Schuler-Early Childhood Education; James Schuler-Vocational Technical Preparation; Jack B Strail-Automotive Technology; Matthew P Teague-Conservation; Elizabeth A Tiedt-Automotive Technology; Makayla M Ulm-Cosmetology; Kylie A Ulm-Equine & Animal Science; Kristy L Ward-Early Childhood Education; Brian Williamson-Engineering New Visions; Melissa M Wright-Health Professions

Stockbridge Valley Central School

Louisa M Bartlett-Equine & Animal Science; Marisha Burton-Early Childhood Education; Torell Chaires-Early Childhood Education; Lisa Curtis-Health Professions; Kaylene D Flores-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Lindsey M Garbry-Cosmetology; Jonathan C Netzband-Engineering New Visions; Teagan A Porter-Health Professions; Samantha Yates-Early Childhood Education

Honorable Mention (80 to 84 percent)

Canastota Central School District

Corey Bloss-Career Exploration II; Zachary Bloss-Vocational Technical Prep ABR Lab; Todd D Cannistra-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Hailie M Chandler-Culinary Arts; Sara A Compoli-Cosmetology; Arlen a Cummings-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; David Davis-Graphic Design; Steven M Fallon-Criminal Justice; Christopher J Gardner-Heavy Equipment Operation; Garritt Heintz-Carpentry; Elaine Hoch-Schmidtka-Vocational Technical Preparation; Brooke R Klish-Criminal Justice; Dakota R McAllister-Carpentry; Jacob L Meade-Heavy Equipment Operation; Kara R Otts-Career Exploration I; Drew M Raushi-Carpentry; Cassandra Reinhardt-Vocational Technical Preparation; William H Stuy-Criminal Justice; James Tolliver-Information Technology Systems/CISCO

Hamilton Central School District

Dylan Baker-Electrical/HVAC; Dakota Browning-Electrical/HVAC; Kyle T Lopp-Auto Body Repair; Matthew T Peckham-Foundations of CTE; Willy W Relyea-Graphic Design; Nathan L Rogers-Conservation; Cody D Smith-Foundations of CTE; Garret Welsh-Electrical/HVAC; Kaylee Winterrose-Foundations of CTE

Madison Central School District

Cody Russell-Career Exploration II; Brian Schenk-Carpentry; Vincent Stolarczyk-Electrical/HVAC; Damien Wright-Career Exploration II

Morrisville-Eaton Central School

Cody W Ammon-Heavy Equipment Operation; Kristin A Campbell-Vocational Technical Preparation; Reece J Dailey-Computer Programming; Michael P Day-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Forrest L Garbry-Culinary Arts; Jessica M Glynn-Culinary Arts; Katrina Johnson-Vocational Technical Preparation; Reid S Maciag-Conservation; Brandon B Marshall-Heavy Equipment Operation; Elizabeth N Nodine-New Ventures; Dylan Sedore-Vocational Technical Preparation; Renee M Shantal-Nurse Assisting; Ronald E Tarkett-Auto Body Repair; Dani-Marie E Ward-Health Professions; Shelby L Widger-New Ventures; Sierra R Williams-Cosmetology

Oneida City School District

Amber R Bavo-Cosmetology; Amber Burns-Cosmetology; Bethanie L Butler-Cosmetology; Patrick C Christensen-Carpentry; Emily E Cullen-Cosmetology; Alyssa L David-Health Professions; Jeffrey Decker-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Katalyn M Fura-Vocational Technical Preparation; Robert Grimsley-Auto Body Repair; Caitlyn E Hess-Equine & Animal Science; Brenna C Holmes-Early Childhood Education; Benjamin C Hood-Automotive Technology; Christopher M Lastine-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Andrew Lollman-Vocational Technical Preparation; Olivia R Lopitz-Culinary Arts; Tasha M Mariano-Cosmetology; Evan P Merrell-Career Exploration I; Cris-Chin R Moore-Graphic Design; Danielle N Potter-Information Technology Systems/CISCO; Ryan Roberson-Vocational Technical Preparation; Chelsea E Saltamach-Culinary Arts; Jon Snyder-Recreational and Outdoor Power Eq.; Fredrick F Wilmer-Criminal Justice; Nicholas S Winn-Computer Programming

Stockbridge Valley Central School

Mark Carpenter-Career Exploration II; Richard Denison-Automotive Technology; William K Huckabone-Automotive Technology; Jolene Mitchell-Criminal Justice; Ashley O’Herien-Equine & Animal Science; Amanda L Relyea-Nurse Assisting; Dylan Russ-Conservation; Justine E Sanford-Culinary Arts

(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 Hudson – 1,223

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

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

(Verona, NY – Oct. 2011)  In celebration of School Board Recognition Week, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4, 2011, Madison-Oneida BOCES will honor its nine Board of Education members at their Nov. 3 regular meeting. School Board Recognition Week, observed by more than 700 school districts across New York State, is intended to recognize school board members for their dedicated service to children.

“The BOCES board members volunteer so much of their time and work tirelessly on behalf of students in the region,” District Superintendent Jackie Starks said. “I speak for everyone at BOCES when I say thank you. We truly appreciate all you do.”

BOCES board members, who represent the nine component school districts of the Madison-Oneida BOCES, are responsible for creating policies, financial decision-making, employing educators and professional staff to meet board goals and objectives; communicating with legislators, government agencies and professional organizations; and serving as liaisons between BOCES and local communities.
Current board members, and the districts they represent, are:

Richard Engelbrecht, Madison– President

Doug Gustin, Canastota – Vice-President

Patrick Baron, VVS

Edward Connell, Camden

John Costello, Sr., Oneida

Donna Isbell, Morrisville-Eaton

Sandra Lockwood, Rome

Lee Mennig, Stockbridge Valley

Robert Pils, Hamilton

By Margo Frink

(Town of Nelson, NY – Sept. 2011) Who better to raise awareness of yearly screening for prostate cancer than someone who’s been diagnosed? And with a new treatment recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a patient can hope to prolong their life.

Fifty-nine-year-old Larry Omans of Nelson missed a screening one year and by the following year tests concluded he had prostate cancer that spread to his lymph nodes. That was in 2007.

“I went from being OK to having a PSA (Prostate-specific Antigen) of 125.7,” Omans said. “It was already aggressive and in my lymph nodes.”

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood. The higher a man’s PSA level the more likely cancer is present.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine it was not rare to find biopsy-detected prostate cancer in men with PSA levels of plus or minus 4.0 ng per milliliter, a level thought to be normal.

Omans began four and half months of chemotherapy that left him weak followed by 42 radiation treatments and hormone therapy.

He remained on hormone treatments that would have ended in October of last year but his PSA levels started to rise. That’s when his urologist, Dr. Christopher Pieczonka of Associated Medical Professionals of NY, located in Syracuse suggested he try a new treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration in April of 2010.

PROVENGE is the first FDA-approved autologous cellular immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of men with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic castrate resistant (hormone refractory) prostate cancer. It is designed to stimulate an immune response against prostate cancer.

Omans explained that he had three treatments, each two weeks apart. He said his white blood cells were collected, which took about three hours. A courier picked up his blood and it was taken to the Dendreon Manufacturing Facility in New Jersey and treated with PROVENGE. It was then incubated for 48 hours, brought back to his doctor’s office in Syracuse and injected back into his body. Omans completed his treatments at the end of June with no side effects.

“After the first treatment was done, I went shopping,” Omans said. “Chemos the worst. I lost my hair and was weak but I didn’t get sick.”

Omans continues to see his doctor for bone scans and CT scans but has no idea how much longer he has.

“[PROVENGE] extends your life,” Omans said. “It’s not a cure. I’m not going to say it’s a cure because it’s not. How much longer would I have if I didn’t take it? I wasn’t supposed to be alive now.”

Dr. Pieczonka said it takes about three months for the treatment to begin working and at Oman’s stage of cancer it could increase his life up to four months.

“Hopefully he will have even longer,” Pieczonka said. “I’m crossing my fingers that he has a good run of this and has many, many years.”

In one case PROVENGE extended the person’s life up to 27 months. Pieczonka has treated eight other men so far and everyone has continued their normal activities with no side effects, he said. Most common side effects reported in studies were chills, fever, fatigue, back pain, nausea, joint ache and headache.

Pieczonka said, although very expensive costing $90,000 it’s the only medicine of its kind, but the treatment is controversial. In most cases, treatment is only approved if the cancer has spread to the lymp nodes and bones and the man’s hormones have stopped working.

“We really need to show it’s going to extend life,” Pieczonka said. “Patients should be given PROVENGE as a first treatment.”

But that’s not the case. Men who are diagnosed are usually given more traditional treatments of chemotherapy and radiation or the prostate is removed.

“If you take the prostate out, it could extend life up to 25 years,” Pieczonka said. Studies are being done now that would allow patients to have PROVENGE first, he said. But again, studies have to prove it extends life longer than traditional treatment.

Pieczonka advises men to do their own research and get two, three or even four opinions before beginning any treatment.

And Pieczonka said if you don’t see your doctor for routine care, it may be too late.

“[Prostate cancer] is very, very treatable. It can be cured if caught early enough,” he said.

More than 30,000 men die a year of prostate cancer. It’s the second most common cancer in men in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men. One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.

If your father or brother was diagnosed, your risk is two-and-a-half times greater of developing prostate cancer.

Omans continues working at Ferris Industries in Stockbridge as an assembly supervisor where he’s worked for 10 years. He enjoys his Harley Davidson motorcycle, golf and looks forward to deer hunting.

“I’m feeling good. I’m working every day,” Omans said. “I’m going to fight this thing.”

Omans wishes he hadn’t skipped that year with his doctor.

“I shouldn’t have had it that advanced. I’m too young,” Omans said. “They compared me to Lance Armstrong. Don’t’ skip a year. Get your check-up every year.”

Margo Frink is vice president of M3P Media LLC and managing editor of the Madison County Courier. She can be reached at Margo@m3pmedia.com or 315-481-8732.

(Sept. 2011) Madison-Oneida BOCES Early Childhood Division has scheduled pre-Kindergarten screenings for children in one of its school-based pre-K programs. These screenings will provide baseline information so teachers can monitor students’ progress as well as help identify students who may need additional monitoring or support services.

Screening dates are as follows:

Canastota: September 23, 26, 28 and 30

Morrisville-Eaton: September 16, 19 and 21

Stockbridge Valley: September 14 and 16

Oneida: September 13, 15, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29 and 30

Madison-Oneida BOCES Early Childhood Division has schedule vision screenings for pre-Kindergarten students at four of its school-based programs. These screenings will be conducted at the school by the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI).

Vision Screenings Scheduled

Screenings dates are as follows:

• Morrisville-Eaton (Edward R. Andrews Elementary School): September 28
• Stockbridge Valley (Stockbridge Valley Central School): September 27
• Canastota (Peterboro Street Elementary School): September 21 and 22
• Oneida (Willard Prior Elementary School): September 19 and 20

The Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) provides comprehensive vision rehabilitation programs to more than 1,100 blind or visually-impaired people each year living in an eight-county area. For more information, call 797-2233 or visit www.cabvi.org.

By Amanda Nobis, Assistant Director of Sports Information

(Morrisville, NY – Sept. 2, 2011) The Morrisville State College men’s

soccer team participated in the Helpers on the Homefront 5k run Saturday, Aug. 27, raising and donating more than $800 to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Founded in 2003, the WWP was created to honor and empower wounded warriors who incur service-related wounds, injuries and illnesses while serving in our country’s military branches since September 11, 2001.

Organized by Katie Thiel, a Stockbridge Valley Central School graduate, and spouse of a member of the Armed Forces, the event also included participants from the community who joined together to donate funds to the WWP.

As part of a continuing community service program within the athletics department, student-athletes are involved in a variety of service programs. Last year the Mustangs participated in more than 20 community service programs logging over 1,200 hours of service.