GAVAC supports city's ambulance service push

24 Pages·2016·3.94 MB·English

‘Star Wars’ icon dies Starting fast
Actress Carrie Fisher, of “Star Wars” Big early run helps Lady Rams open
fame, has died at the age of 60. showcase with 64-48 win over C-NS.
• Page 11 • Page 24
Recorder
The
Wednesday
(cid:60)(cid:50)(cid:56)(cid:53)(cid:3)(cid:43)(cid:50)(cid:48)(cid:40)(cid:55)(cid:50)(cid:58)(cid:49)(cid:3)(cid:49)(cid:40)(cid:58)(cid:54)(cid:51)(cid:36)(cid:51)(cid:40)(cid:53)(cid:3)(cid:54)(cid:44)(cid:49)(cid:38)(cid:40)(cid:3)(cid:20)(cid:27)(cid:22)(cid:21) December 28, 2016
AMSTERDAM, N.Y. VOL. 136, NO. 113 75 CENTS
GAVAC supports city’s ambulance service push
By JOHN PURCELL Swartz said what the organiza-
Recorder News Staff tion pays the city based on a per-
centage of the amount of billable
Amsterdam’s longtime ambu- calls and the level of services pro-
lance service provider isn’t look- vided. GAVAC ends up paying
ing to battle with the city as local between $120,000 to $130,000.
officials eye shifting the service Swartz said GAVAC would not
in-house. be abandoning the city, because it
Greater Amsterdam Volunteer would continue to provide mutu-
Ambulance Corps Operations al aid for any calls city firefight-
Manager Mickey Swartz said the ers could not cover. He said the
organization has decided to sup- contract will expire with
port the city’s efforts to have the Amsterdam if the fire department
Amsterdam Fire Department pro- takes over as the primary ambu-
vide ambulance services. He said lance service provider.
that GAVAC’s contract with the AFD has served as the primary
city hasn’t been particularly responder for emergency medical
lucrative and the organization has services but the city had contract-
lost more than $300,000 over the ed with GAVAC to provide
last two years. ambulance services.
“From a business standpoint it “We just hope for a great work-
just doesn’t make any sense for
ing relationship with them,”
us to continue in the path that
Swartz said.
we’re going because we have a
He said GAVAC does not fore-
contract with the city that costs
see any layoffs occurring within
several thousands of dollars
the organization if the city
every year to do this mutual EMS
becomes the primary ambulance
scenario,” Swartz said, For us to
service provider. GAVAC serves
continue to pay for that contract
every year just financially is hurt- Please see GAVAC, File Photo
ing us.” Page 5 AGAVAC response vehicle parked outside of St. Mary’s Hospital.
Amsterdam library gets creative with first STEAM Fair
By JOHN PURCELL toward older children. The day long event will showcase the Amsterdam Free
Recorder News Staff There will also be standalone activities including the Library’s “makerspace,” which was recently established
Schoharie River Center using microscopes to show macro- after a large portion of the basement was converted,
Kids will be able to participate in a variety of interactive invertebrates present in area water and t-shirt tie-dying. All library Assistant Director Dave DeFazio said.
presentations during the Amsterdam Free Library’s inau- activities are free and Carmel’s Diner, a local nonprofit, will DeFazio said library programming typically only
gural STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art be providing complimentary bagged lunches. attracts people locally, but the STEAM Fair is aimed to
and Math) Fair, which aims to connect concepts from Library Director Nicole Hemsley said the event is “hit- attract from across the Mohawk Valley and Capital
classrooms to a hands on learning experience. ting pretty much every aspect of STEAM ” the library can Region. He said the idea of having a makerspace in the
The STEAM Fair will be held Thursday from 10:30 in one day. library is also unique for the region.
a.m. to 4 p.m., with five sessions featured throughout the “It’s an unveiling and a step towards more programming The makerspace is a different kind of model for the
day. Some of the session include space technology, food for all age groups using the STEAM model,” Hemsley library, which allows for more of “user driven model
science, maple sugaring, electrical circuit experimentation said. “I hope we have a great turnout so people can see the where kids can pursue the subject matter they are most
and video game development. Earlier sessions are geared transition from books and a quiet library into a creation
toward younger children while later sessions are geared library that encompasses all of these aspects.” Please see STEAM, Page 5
Times Square ball isn’t the only thing Inside F-FCS teacher
shares experience
that gets dropped on New Year’s Eve Classifieds . . . . . . .16-17
Comics . . . . . . . . . . . .14 from agriculture
Entertainment . . . .11, 15
NEWYORK (AP) — That glit-
Happenings . . . . . . . .2-3 conference
tering ball in Times Square may
be the best-known object drop- Lottery numbers . . . . . .4
ping on New Year’s Eve, but it’s By MORGAN FRISCH
Nation/world . . . . . . .9-10
by no means the weirdest. Recorder News staff
Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . .4
There’s stiff competition in that
category: Everything from a fish Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 FONDA — A Fonda-
to a shoe to a giant candy Peep Fultonville Central School
Sports . . . . . . . . . .18-24
will descend on Saturday to wel- District educator who was
come in 2017. Rain and awarded the Teacher Turn the
The tiny lakeside town of Port snow. High Key Scholarship, shared her
Clinton, Ohio, will celebrate the near 33. experience at the National
new year by dropping a 20-foot- • Page 13 Association of Agricultural
long, 600-pound replica of a Educators Conference with
walleye fish. The annual Idaho Board of Education members last
potato drop in Boise will feature The Associated Press week.
a massive lit-up “glowtato” to In this Dec. 31, 2011, file photo, children gather around a large Sheri Boardman, the district’s
celebrate one of the state’s most Peep after it was dropped during a New Year’s Eve celebration, at agriculture teacher, visited Las
the Levitt Pavillion on the Steelstacks Campus in Bethlehem, Pa.
Please see BALL, It’s one of a number of ceremonies in which various objects are Please see AGRICULTURE,
Page 5 dropped around the country to welcome in the new year. Page 5
2 / Wednesday,December 28, 2016 LOCAL The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Today welcome. For more informa-
tion, call Sister Rita Jean
AMSTERDAM
DuBrey at 841-7146.
Survivors of a Loved One’s
BROADALBIN
Suicide Support Group will
The eighth annual
meet at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s
Sacandaga Sportsment’s Day
Healthcare. This is a support
will be held at 191 Lakeview
group for those who have lost
Road, from 9:45 a.m. to 4
a family member, friend or
p.m. Registration begins at
colleague to suicide. Contact
Bob Martin at 669-8229 or 9:45 a.m. The cost is $20.
[email protected] for For more information, call
more information and meeting 883-3713.
location.
AMSTERDAM Tuesday
St. Mary’s Hospital will host
AMSTERDAM
Joint School at 5 p.m. for
Abrain injury support group
those having, or considering
will meet the St. Mary’s
joint replacement surgery.
Healthcare cafeteria, 427 Guy
Call 842-2663 ext. 234 for
Park Ave., at 6:30 p.m. For
more information.
more information, contact
MAYFIELD
Mickey LaCoppola at 843-
The Paul Nigra Center for
6527 or 866-3707.
Creative Arts, 2736 Route 30, Alex Cooper / Recorder staff
A BROADALBIN
will hold its Winter LL SMILES
St. Joseph’s Church will
Funderland Day Camp from 9 Amsterdam resident Casey Burda smiles to her mother while handing out Christmas gifts to resi-
host bingo in the parish cen-
a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is dents on Thursday, Dec. 22, at the River Ridge Living Facility in Amsterdam. Casey, along with her
mother Laura and two employees at the living center, helped hand out gifts that were selected by ter at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5
for campers ages 5 to 10 who
staff members. p.m. and tickets are sold at
will participate in a variety of
6:15 p.m.
crafts and activities. The
camp is $130 for those who FORT PLAIN door. For more information, 4988 Route 30 at 6 p.m. For
Wednesday, Jan. 10
pre-register and $155 at the The Fort Plain Free Library, call 661-9932. more information, call
door. For more information, 19 Willett St., will host the Meagan DeMento at 867- AMSTERDAM
call 661-9932. Creative Textile Fibers Group Friday 4999. Abereavement support
in the Local History Room AMSTERDAM group, Living with Loss, will
Thursday from 12:30 to 2 p.m. The Amsterdam Free Wednesday meet at St. Mary’s
AMSTERDAM FORT PLAIN Library, 28 Church St., will GLOVERSVILLE Healthcare, 427 Guy Park
The Amsterdam Free The Fort Plain Free Library, hold a program, The Five Abreastfeeding support Ave., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For
Library, 28 Church St., will 19 Willett St., will host the Senses: Colored Macaroni group will meet at The more information, call Amy
hold a STEAM Fair from weekly Writers Group in the and Cheese. Birthing Center at Littauer, 99 Weinar at 843-5412.
10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The pro- Local History Room from 3 to ST. JOHNSVILLE E. State St., from 12:30 to 2
gram will include interactive 5 p.m. Ablood drive will be held at p.m. For more information, Thursday, Jan. 11
presentations from a wide MAYFIELD the St. Johnsville Community contact The Birthing Center at
AMSTERDAM
range of area educational The Paul Nigra Center for House, 16 Washington St., 773-5710.
Survivors of a Loved One’s
organizations. Session Creative Arts, 2736 Route 30, from 1 to 5 p.m.
Suicide Support Group will
themes include space tech- will hold its Winter Thursday, Jan. 5
meet at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s
nology, electrical circuit Funderland Day Camp from 9 Saturday
AMSTERDAM Healthcare. This is a support
experimentation, video game a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is
development, ecology, food for campers ages 5 to 10 who MAYFIELD St. Mary’s Healthcare, 380 group for those who have lost
science and more. For more will participate in a variety of The Paul Nigra Center for Guy Park Ave., will present, a family member, friend or
information, log on to crafts and activities. The Creative Arts, 2736 Route 30, The Butt Stop Here, A colleague to suicide. Contact
www.amsterdamlibrary.com or camp is $130 for those who will hold an Intro to Yoga Smoking Cessation Program, Bob Martin at 669-8229 or
call 842-1080. pre-register and $155 at the class from 9 to 9:45 a.m. The from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. For [email protected] for
class is $5. To register, log on more information, contact Bri more information and meeting
to pncreativeartscenter.org or Giulianelli at 841-7448 or giu- location.
call 661-9932. [email protected].
AMSTERDAM
ST. JOHNSVILLE Thursday, Jan. 12
The Greater Amsterdam
Last Night will be held
School District will hold its GLOVERSVILLE
throughout the village all day.
Published Monday thru Saturday by McClary Media, Inc. district spelling bee at the The Fulton Montgomery
The event will feature a two-
Wilbur H. Lynch Literacy Regional Chamber of
Kevin McClary hour concert at 4 p.m., chil-
Academy at 6:30 p.m. Commerce will hold a
Publisher dren’s games and crafts, trol-
AMSTERDAM Business After Hours at the
Geoffrey Dylong ley car rides, family movie
Asupport group for the new Gloversville Dialysis
Associate Publisher and guided tours of the
National Alliance of Mental Center at Nathan Littauer
Brian Krohn Community House and the
Illness of Montgomery, Fulton Hospital, 99 E. State St., from
General Manager Margaret Reaney Library and
and Hamilton County will 5 to 7 p.m.
Joe Ulrich Museum. Aball drop will cap
Ad Manager the event at 8:50 p.m. meet at the Riverfront Center,
Lori Hinkle Suite 2390, second floor from Sunday, Jan. 15
Controller Sunday 5:30 to 7 p.m. For more infor- MINAVILLE
mation, contact Rebecca
Morgan Frisch Adam Shinder MAYFIELD Cardinale at 843-3261. Achicken and biscuits din-
Staff Reporter Sports Reporter The Paul Nigra Center for ner will be held at the Town of
Florida Old Town Hall on Fort
John Purcell Nicole Antonucci Creative Arts, 2736 Route 30, Saturday, Jan. 7
Hunter Road from 2 to 5 p.m.
will hold an Intro to Yoga
Staff Reporter Editor class from 11 to 11:45 a.m. AMSTERDAM The meal is $10 in advance
Alex Cooper Emily Drew The cost is $5 per class. For Amental health family sup- and $11.50 at the door and
Photographer Editor more information, call 661- port group will meet at St. includes dinner, soup, sides,
Mary’s Healthcare, 427 Guy
9932 or log on to www.pncre- drink and dessert. For tick-
Paul Antonelli Mary Anne Semkiw Park Ave., third floor, group
ativeartscenter.org/yoga. ets, call Kim at 842-8611 or
Sports Editor Advertising Executive room D from 1 to 3 p.m. For
Joe at 842-4987.
Editorial Policy – The Recorder accepts signed letters from Tuesday more information, call facilita-
readers and reserves the right to reject any advertisement, letter or news copy. tor Mary Lou Barry, St. Mary’s
Monday, Jan. 16
Copyright Policy – The Recorder retains all copyright ownership BROADALBIN Behavioral Health at 841-
o Afd avdevretristiisnegm Cenlatsim crse –a tTedh eb yR eitcso srtdaefrf m doeems bneorts g.uarantee the St. Joseph’s Church will 7468. TOWN OF AMSTERDAM
accuracy of any claim made by any advertiser. host bingo in the parish cen- AMSTERDAM Afree health screening will
Advertising Rates – Available on request. ter at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5 Ahealing touch pract group be held at the St. Mary’s
The Recorder p.m. and tickets are sold at will meet at St. Mary’s Breast Health Center in the
1 Venner Road, Amsterdam, NY 12010 6:15 p.m. Carondelet Pavilion, 380 Guy Rao Outpatient Pavilion, 4950
Phone: [phone] or 1-800-453-6397 TOWN OF AMSTERDAM Park Avenue, from 9:30 a.m. Route 30 from 3 to 5 p.m. For
Fax: [phone] An Alzheimer’s caregiver to noon. All certified Healing more information, contact
www.recordernews.com support group will meet at St. Touch practitioners, HTpracti- Suzanne Hagadorn at 841-
Contact us at [email protected] Mary’s Memorial Campus, tioners and HTstudents are 3726.
The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y. LOCAL Wednesday,December 28, 2016 / 3
Northville provides sweet treats for honor students
NORTHVILLE —
Superintendent Leslie Ford,
rewarded the Northville
Central School elementary
high honor roll students with a
freshly-baked chocolate chip
cookie Wednesday, Dec. 14,
for the first trimester. The su-
perintendent’s “Chocolate
Chip Challenge” is issued
every term; 23 students made
the grade this trimester, attain-
ing an overall average of 95
percent, or above. Ford asked
the students to encourage their
friends to earn a cookie for the
second trimester, and the kids
Photos submitted
made a group goal of having at
Back row, from left, Harry Downing, Victoria Ladmer, Amy Williams, Ellen Flickinger, Maeve Curley, Riley Henderson, Leah Valovic,
least 27 students in the next Noah Ellsworth, Brandon Sawyer, James Pertell. Middle row, from left, Evi Sevastakis, Adrianna Van Allen, Zeke Klueg, Kevin Becotte,
Caitlin Clapper, Lillie Roe, Kendra Stevens, Lyra Thomarie, Leanora Fitzgerald, Ethan Spencer. Seated, from left, Rylan Czadzeck and
cookie photo. Nolan Sawyer.Not pictured is Landon Lent.
Fulton Montgomery Regional
Chamber of Commerce
announces new travel guides
GLOVERSVILLE — The Tourism Department of the Fulton
Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce announces the travel
guides for Fulton and Montgomery counties will be updated for the
2017 tourism season. All tourism-related businesses in Fulton and
Montgomery counties are encouraged to update their profiles for the
tourism websites and tourism publications.
“Fulton and Montgomery counties’ tourism program goals for
2017 include creating a new travel guide for each county and
updating the VisitMontgomeryCountyNY.com and 44Lakes.com
tourism websites,” Gina DaBiere-Gibbs, director of tourism, said.
“Updated profile sheets are vital to the success of having accurate
tourism websites and travel guides to fulfill requests from poten-
tial visitors to our region. And these listings are free to our region’s
tourism properties as aligned with the I LOVE NYmatching funds
program.”
Tourism profile sheets are available for all tourism properties in the
two-county region on visitmontgomerycountyny.com/blog and
44lakes.com/blog. All Fulton and Montgomery county tourism-relat-
ed businesses are encouraged to download this sheet, fill it out and
send it to the tourism department by Friday, Jan. 6.
Photo submitted
Pictured from left, Brinley Claus, Annabelle Case, Bailey Pierce, Lillianna Acquasanta, Salvatore Businesses that should fill out the profile sheet include, but are
Ambrosino, Mahmoud Sabahi, McKayla Blanchard and Evan Renda. not limited to, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants,
attractions, museums, historic sites, libraries, information centers
Boulevard announces Principal Pride winners and agricultural businesses open to the public. These profile sheets
will be used to create the travel guides and update the listings on
the websites.
GLOVERSVILLE — Boulevard Elementary Annabelle Case, Bailey Pierce, Lillianna For more information, or a copy of the tourism profile sheet, contact
School Principal Tom Komp recently announced Acquasanta, Salvatore Ambrosino, Mahmoud the Fulton Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce Tourism
the November 2016 grades K-5 Principal Pride win- Sabahi, McKayla Blanchard, Evan Renda, Michael Department, at 725-0641 or tourism@fultonmontgomeryny.
ners. The Principal Pride award is sponsored by Murphy, Ariana Taylor, John Paul Gaydos, Bryn
Principal Tom Komp, Boulevard Elementary Wojeski, Evan Rieth, Mackenzie Meyer, Owen
Cancer screenings for January
School PTAand the Law Office of John N. Clo. Mitchell, Madeline Ewbank, Mia Herb and Kayla
The students recognized included Brinley Claus, Verigan.
The Cancer Services Program Center, McClellan Street,
of Fulton, Montgomery &
Schenectady.
Schenectady Counties is offering
free cancer screening events for Contact Suzanne Hagadorn for
women 40-64 years old who do more information and to pre-reg-
not have health insurance.
ister at 518-770-6814.
Participants may be eligible for
a breast exam, Pap test, mammo- WE SELL
gram and/or colorectal cancer
FOR LESS
screening kit. Please call for eli-
gibility requirements.
Screenings will be held on the
following days:
• Monday, Jan. 16, from 8:30 to
10 a.m. at Nathan Littauer
Hospital, Women’s Imaging, 99
E. State St., Gloversville. $ 13 99 $ 26 99
• Monday, Jan. 16, from 3 to 5
p.m. at St. Mary’s Breast Health
Center in the Rao Outpatient 12 pk. case
Pavilion, 4950 Route 30,
Amsterdam. Bill’s Beverage Co.
• Saturday, Jan. 21, from 8:30
a.m. to noon at Ellis Hospital, Corner of Park St. & Locust Ave.
McClellan Street, Schenectady. M. - F.: 9 - 6 Sat.: 9 - 5
Photo submitted
Pictured from left, Michael Murphy, Ariana Taylor, John Paul Gaydos, Bryn Wojeski, Evan Rieth, • Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 1 to 4 842-7050
Mackenzie Meyer, Owen Mitchell, Madeline Ewbank, Mia Herb, Kayla Verigan. p.m. at Ellis Family Health
4 / Wednesday,December 28, 2016 LOCAL The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y.
In Memoriam OBITUARIES
In Loving Memory of Henry D. Ross III Regina M. Hudson
Stanislaus J. Andrzejewski
December 23, 2016 December 24, 2016
who passed away suddenly on
December28, 1983
Henry D. Ross III, 24, of Lakeview Rd., Regina M. Hudson, 85, of St. Johnsville passed away peacefully on
Remembrance is a golden chain,
Mayfield, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016, at St. Johnsville Rehabilitation & Nursing
Death tries to break but all in vain.
Friday, Dec. 23, 2016, at Nathan Littauer Hospital Home with her loving family by her side.
To have, to love and then to part,
in Gloversville, N.Y. Born on April 12, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Jay and
Is the greatest sorrow of one’s heart.
Born in Gloversville, N.Y., on March 17, 1992, Jessie Moyer Peeler. Regina attended St. Johnsville Schools and went
Sadly missed, remembered always.
a son of Henry D. and Maria Zarrelli Ross Jr. on to work at Canajoharie Manufacturing.
Love, Son and Daughter
Henry was a 2010 graduate of Mayfield High Regina loved her music and was an avid Elvis fan, collecting any-
School. thing Elvis from books to throws. Most of all she loved being with her
In Loving Memory of
family and her grandchildren. Regina will be sadly missed by all who
He was currently employed at G.E. in
WalterTomasik
knew her.
Schenectady in the Turbine Division.
who passed away on
ROSS On Feb. 14, 1954, Regina married her loving husband Raymond
Henry believed in living life to the fullest. He
December28, 1976.
Hudson, Jr., who predeceased her. Survivors include her loving fami-
enjoyed spending time with his long list of close friends. He was an
Forty years has passed
ly, daughters, Denise Cook of Ft. Plain and Sherry Thurm (Bob) of
avid outdoorsman enjoying several activities near his home town
since that sad day, Rochester; son, Bruce Hudson (Kim) of Palatine Bridge; five grand-
including hunting, fishing, boating and snowmobiling.
The one we loved was called away. children, seven great-grandchildren and cousins also survive.
He also dedicated much of his time to his true passion of racing start-
Aloving Father, tender and kind. Aprivate graveside service will take place in the spring at Freysbush
ing but not ending with Delaney Motorsports. Years of racing changed
What beautiful memories Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on
friendships into extended family.
You left behind. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Lenz & Betz Funeral
He was also a former member of the Mayfield Vol Fire Dept. Henry
We love and miss you. Home, 69 Otsego St., Canajoharie where a closing prayer will be held
was of the Roman Catholic Faith.
Love, Daughters at 7 p.m..
He is survived by his loving parents, Henry D. Ross Jr. and Maria
Barbara & Gloria Online condolences can be made at www.brbsfuneral.com.
Zarelli Ross of Mayfield, N.Y.; his paternal grandfather, Henry
“Hank” Ross Sr. of Amsterdam; godmother and aunt, Cindi Ross LENZ & BETZ
Lottery numbers of Amsterdam; aunt, Mindy Ross of of Amsterdam; aunt, Penny
Ross of Hagaman, N.Y.; aunt, Missy Ross of Amsterdam; godfa- FUNERAL HOME
ALBANY(AP) — Here are
ther and uncle, Anthony Zarelli of Perth, N.Y.; uncle, Jay and aunt 69 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY 13317
the winning numbers select-
Kathy Zarelli of Gloversville, N.Y.; and uncle, Michael and aunt 518-673-3231 • www.brbsfuneral.com
ed Tuesday in the New York
Leslie Zarelli of Silver Springs, Md. Great Aunts, uncles and
state lottery: cousins also survive.
Richard Henry Frederick
MIDDAYDAILY: 6-8-0 He was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Gloria Zarelli;
LUCKYSUM: 14 paternal grandmother, Jackey Ross; cousin, Dallas Sperow; and an December 24, 2016
MIDDAYWINFOUR:1-4-6-3 aunt, Sandra J. Ross-VanDeusen.
LUCKYSUM:14 Afuneral mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Dec. Richard Henry Frederick, age 87, of North
EVENINGDAILY:0-8-1 31, 2016, at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 149 South Second Avenue, Broadalbin went home to be with
LUCKYSUM: 9 Main St., Gloversville, N.Y., with the Rev. Donald Czelusniak pre- his Lord on Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016, at St. Mary’s
siding. The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, Healthcare, Amsterdam.
EVENINGWINFOUR: 6-4-9-4
Dec. 30, 2016, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Dick was born in the Town of Mayfield on
LUCKYSUM:23
Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, NY12010. March 6, 1929, a son of Raymond and Edna Cole
PICK10:9-12-13-15-16-19- We decided to do something Henry loved which was “Sunday Frederick. He was a 1946 graduate of Perth Central
22-26-29-35-37-39-42-49-55-
Funday” at Lanzi’s on the Lake. Please join Henry’s family and School, and a lifelong area resident.
58-59-60-66-71 friends beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 1, at Lanzi’s, 1751 State He entered the US Marine Reserve in 1948 –
TAKEFIVE: 4-20-25-27-35 Highway 30, Mayfield, NY 12117. In lieu of flowers memorial Service number 1034899 (Gotcha Bill!), and
MEGAMILLIONS:2-28-30- contributions may be made to Fulton County Sheriff’s Association, served in the US Army from 1951 to 1953, with the
38-39 PO Box 20 Johnstown, NY12095; Please send In Loving Memory 103rd combat engineers in Pennsylvania and
MEGABALL:11 MEGAPLAY: 4 of Henry D Ross III and note Snowmobile Fund. The money raised Germany.
money will go towards getting snowmobiles for the association to Dick was a life member of Perth Bible Church from
THE NEWS IN BRIEF get help to people in need on the lake faster. Please leave condo- 1939-2016. He served the church as a building super-
intendent for remodeling, additions, and new con-
lences online at www.brbsfuneral.com.
struction projects. Dick was also a bus ministry cap-
$7.7M to aid
tain and driver for many years, and was also involved
domestic violence, BETZ, ROSSI & BELLINGER
in the Hearts & Hands ministry at church.
sexual assault FREDERICK He was an ambulance driver for GAVAC for sev-
FAMILY FUNERAL HOME
victims in NY eral years. Dick also volunteered at the Wilkinson Memorial Book
171 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Station in Broadalbin.
ALBANY(AP) — New York 518-843-1920 • www.brbsfuneral.com Dick worked with his father in private contracting for many years. He
state is getting $7.7 million
was later employed at Glen Gay Building, Perth Lumber Co., and Tanner
from the federal government to
Genevieve (Jeanne) Litynski Lumber Co. He retired from Tanner’s in 2013, at age 84. Dick was a
assist victims of domestic vio-
skilled finish carpenter who could do wonders with wood. Family and
lence and sexual assault. December 18, 2016 friends have hundreds of projects that he built in his spare time. Dick
Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s admin- enjoyed bowling, gardening, reading, and word puzzles. He loved his
istration said Tuesday that the Genevieve (Jeanne) Litynski, of River Ridge church, his Bible, and his family. Dick was an unfailingly kind and gen-
money will go toward counsel- Living Center and formerly of Austin St., passed tle man, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
ing and legal help for victims, away at the age of 100+ on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two sisters, G.
law enforcement investigations after a short illness. Jean and Bettie, and four brothers; Jack, Joseph, Robert and Lewis.
and prosecutions, and training The daughter of John and Anna (Belczyk) Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Judith, whom he married
for police and judges. Litynski, she was born in Amsterdam, N.Y., on on Oct. 3, 1981; a daughter, Tina (John) Healey of Nacogdoches, TX;
Cuomo, a Democrat, says Sept. 29, 1916, where she resided all her life. three grandchildren, Kate (Joe) Healey Fritz of Amsterdam, Michael
the money will ensure that vic- Three months ago she enjoyed celebrating her (Bronwyn) Healey of Ballston Spa, and Lindsay (Mike) Montario of
tims get the help and 100th birthday with many relatives and friends. Nacogdoches, TX; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Lillian “Diddy”
She attended local schools. She worked at Frederick of Perth; a sister-in-law, Marion Frederick of Perth; five step-
resources they need. LITYNSKI
Hanover Dress Company, but for the majority children; Jack (Lydia) Reed of Broadalbin, Roxanne (Jeff) Lord of
Some 117 existing programs
of her working life she was employed as a nurse’s aide at Yorktown, Va., Bruce (Lori) Reed and Bradley Reed (Mary Van Buren)
and 11 new initiatives around
Amsterdam Memorial Hospital and Mt. Loretto Nursing Home. all of Broadalbin; and Kirsten (Phil) Cresanti Malnarick of Amsterdam;
the state will receive a portion
Jeanne was a lifelong member of St. John the Baptist Church six step-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; nieces and
of the funds.
until its closing, and then a communicant of St. Stanislaus nephews; and his favorite cat, Olivia.
Church. Cremation was performed at Park View Crematorium, Schenectady.
State offers tax Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her brother Mitchell; Calling hours will be held on Friday, Dec. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
breaks for western sister-in-law Stella; sister Mary Pawlowski; brother-in-law Henry; at the Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc., 111 County Highway
NY cheese plant and nephew Frederick Litynski. 106 (Corner of Route 29 & Black Street), Johnstown. A memorial
project She is survived by nieces and nephews Lorraine Lasinski of service will follow at 1 p.m., conducted by Pastor Roger Ellison.
Amsterdam, Daniel and Dianne Litynski (Kalamazoo, Mich.), Memorial contributions may be made to the Perth Bible Church, 1863
YORK (AP) — The state has Thomas and Carmel Pawlowski (Nashua, N.H.), Frank and County Highway 107, Amsterdam, NY 12010, or to the Wilkinson
pledged $2.5 million in tax Nancy Pawlowski (Amherst, N.H.), Ann Palys and Gerald Memorial Book Station, PO Box 901 Broadalbin, NY12025.
credits and grants for a new Cornwell (Bedford, N.H.), nephew-in-law David Lasinski
cheese manufacturing plant (Albany), as well as special great-nieces, great-nephews, and Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home Inc.
scheduled to open in western cousins. 111 Cty. Hwy. 106 (cr. Rte. 29 and Black St.)
New York in about a year. Ciocia Jeanne will be remembered with love for her lively spirit,
The Democrat & Chronicle independent thinking, wit, generosity, and caring for her family mem-
reports construction on the bers.
$49.7 million WNYCheese AMass of Christian burial will be Friday, Dec. 30, at 11 a.m. at St. In Loving Memory of
Stanislaus Church. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. Anyone who
Enterprise production facility in Raymond Gralewski
wishes to pay their respects may do so Friday, Dec. 30, from 9:30 to
Livingston County is already
10:30 a.m. at Amsterdam Funeral Chapel, 13 Belmont Place, 5/8/1925 - 12/28/2015
underway.
Amsterdam, N.Y.
The 30,000-square-foot York First Anniversary
Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of your
plant will employ 30 people, who
choice. Always a beautiful memory,
collectively are expected to pro-
Always a silent tear,
duce roughly 15 million pounds
Wishing you were here.
of cheddar cheese annually. Amsterdam Funeral Chapel
Up to $700,000 in tax credits Loving Wife Ramora, Children,
for the project will be provided Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren
13 Belmont Place (cid:129) Amsterdam
through a state jobs program.
The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y. LOCAL/STATE Wednesday, December 28, 2016 / 5
STEAM Agriculture
from page 1 from page 1
interested in and do so at their own pace,” “We have really good attendance here with pre- Vegas in November with more
DeFazio said. Programming offered at the library is school programming and even our elementary than 700 other teachers from
aimed to complement what is taught in public school programming,” DeFazio said, “but we see a across the country. Atotal of 37
schools. marked decline of coming into the library when states were represented at the
Anew addition to the makerspace will be unveiled kids reach high school age.” conference and Boardman was
during the event, which is a 3D printer the library He said experiencing a decline with kids coming selected as the New York state
purchased using grant funding. Hemsley said the to the library when they're older is a common issue recipient. Winning the scholar-
3D printer was received around a month ago and many libraries face. ship gave her an all expense
staff members have been learning how to use the paid trip to the convention.
Hemsley said the library is actively working to inte-
new equipment. Boardman said she was able to
grate STEAM into regular programming offered.
hear from veteran agriculture
DeFazio said staff members are learning some basic
“We take our role very seriously in the communi-
teachers who “are fantastic at
programming to design their own pieces to be printed.
ty in enhancing science, technology, engineering, what they do.”
“It’s one thing to be able to print from a template
art and math,” Hemsley said. “Even our preschool “They shared opportunities
that’s just coming off the Internet,” DeFazio said.
programming during the week we have one day, with us and the tricks of the
“It’s another thing to actually be designing your
Thursdays, is STEAM based, so we’re starting them trade that they learned over
own 3D sculptures.”
as young as preschool with the educational compo- time,” Boardman said.
Hemsley believed the 3D printer would be used
nent of STEAM.” She learned that there is a
only for presentations during the event, but there is
The library has also been hosting technology class- shortage of agriculture teachers
programming planned for the public to try it out
es for older adults at 6 p.m. Thursdays, which focus in the nation. In the next two
next year. She said these programs would be
more on basic computer skills and learning different years, New York state will need
announced shortly after the New Year. Morgan Frisch/Recorder staff
72 agriculture teachers due to
DeFazio said the library is also planning to pur- software. DeFazio said these classes tend to be infor- Fonda-Fultonville Central School
retirements, new programs and
chase a screen printing machine early next year, so mal and involve a small group of individuals. District Superintendent Thomas
teachers dropping out of the
kids will be able to print their own designs on cloth- DeFazio said the programming in the makerspace Ciaccio watches agriculture teacher
profession.
ing. Audio and video equipment is another grant for youths will also tend to be smaller groups with Sheri Boardman show a presenta-
tion regarding her experience at the “That was really eye-opening
funded purchase in the pipeline. a lot of hands experimentation and learning. National Association of Agricultural to me,” she said.
With the additional activities in the makerspace For a breakdown of activities offered during the Educators Conference during the Boardman said the conference
program, the goal is to draw some older kids back STEAM Fair, visit the library’s website at board of education last week. gave her a fantastic networking
into the library, too. www.amsterdamlibrary.com. opportunity, along with new les-
son plan ideas and time management skills. There were over 80 work-
shops to attend and participants were challenged to improve their
Ball
from page 1 teaching and immerse themselves in time management activities, she
said.
Boardman also gave an update on the agriculture program at F-FCS.
famous products. In Lake Tahoe, Nevada, a at the Hard Rock Cafe on Beale Street. Raleigh,
She said the group has been doing lots of fundraising activities, teach-
brightly lit gondola is dropped at the Heavenly North Carolina, which calls itself the city of oaks,
ing middle school students who may be interested in the program and
Mountain ski resort. drops a giant acorn to welcome the new year.
creating an agricultural diversity committee. Each agriculture pro-
In Key West, Florida, four different things — Atlanta hosts a peach drop, and New Orleans drops
gram across the state is supposed to select a committee which consists
including two humans — are lowered to welcome a fleur-de-lis.
of community members who are business owners or involved with
the new year. A giant conch shell is dropped at The tradition of dropping a ball to mark a moment
agriculture.
Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a costumed “pirate wench” is dates back to the 19th century, but it didn’t originate
“We are in the beginning steps of that process,” she said.
lowered outside the Schooner Wharf Bar, a wedge as a New Year’s Eve custom. “Time balls” were
F-FCS started an agriculture program last year.
of Key lime descends into a huge margarita glass at once displayed in harbors and lowered daily to sig-
Superintendent Thomas Ciaccio said Boardman is trying to reach out
the Ocean Key House Resort, and of course in what nal a certain time of day so that ships could precise-
to local businesses to try and partner them with students to give them
is probably Key West’s most famous New Year’s ly set the chronometers they used for navigation.
some real world application.
Eve tradition, a large red high-heeled shoe carrying The New Year’s Eve tradition began in 1907 when
“We are very pleased with the way things are going,” he said. “We
female impersonator Gary “Sushi” Marion is low- a time ball was dropped as part of a public celebra-
hope to continue to grow the program.”
ered outside the Bourbon Street Pub complex on tion hosted by The New York Times at its building
Duval Street. in Times Square.
POLICE REPORTS
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, hosts a two-day family- The Times Square ball has been redesigned a
friendly Peeps festival that includes the dropping of number of times over the decades. It was originally
a 200-pound lit-up Peeps chick. Peeps manufactur- made of iron, wood and 25-watt lightbulbs. The ball Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
er Just Born began operating in Bethlehem in the that will drop Saturday night in the moments lead-
• George Rank, 64, of 1565 Levey Road, Pattersonville, was
1930s. ing up to midnight is made from Waterford crystal
charged Sunday with aggravated driving while intoxicated, and
In Memphis, Tennessee, a lit-up guitar is dropped triangles, illuminated by thousands of LED lights.
driving while intoxicated, both felonies.
Deputies said Rank was involved in an accident and rolled
GAVAC
over his vehicle in the town of Florida. After an investigation,
from page 1
deputies determined Rank was intoxicated and had a prior
all of Montgomery County and provides mutual Former Corporation Counsel Gerard DeCusatis conviction. Rank was arraigned in Florida Town Court and was
aid to surrounding counties. came to the same determination in 2015 when for- remanded to the Montgomery County Correctional Facility on
“We may lose 15 to 20 percent of the call volume, mer Mayor Ann Thane proposed transitioning the $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bail bond.
but that’s not going to hurt us in the big picture,” • William Buczkowski, 26, of 248 Rebisz Road, Broadalbin,
ambulance service to the fire department. The pro-
Swartz said.
was charged Saturday with petit larceny, criminal possession
posal was eventually voted down by the council,
Aldermen have been looking into the possibility
of a controlled substance and sixth-degree conspiracy.
of starting the in-house service likely during the but DeCusatis said at the time the change does not
Buczkowski was arrested after Target Loss Prevention
2017-18 fiscal year. fall under the guidelines established in the General
reported he allegedly stole $458. 68 in merchandise. During
Third Ward Alderman Chad Majewski is scheduled Municipal Law governing referendums.
to hold a Public Safety Committee meeting Thursday the investigation it was determined that Buczkowski was in
The Amsterdam Fire Department has a certificate
at 6 p.m., which will outline the next steps after the possession of a controlled substance. He was ticketed and is
of need to be a first responder in the city from the
charter is revised and provide additional information. expected in Amsterdam town court at a later date.
state Department of Health, but it would need to file
Majewski said residents are welcome to attend the • Sydney Morin, 22, of 46 Pearl St., Gloversville was charged
meeting and ask questions about the proposal. for a certificate of need to provide medical trans- Saturday with petit larceny, criminal possession of a controlled
The Amsterdam Common Council introduced a portation services as an ambulance provider. The substance and sixth-degree conspiracy. Morin was arrested
local law last week amending the city charter to certificate of need to operate an ambulance in the after Target Loss Prevention reported that she allegedly stole
allow the Amsterdam Fire Department to operate an
city would need to be renewed bi-annually. $479.74 in merchandise. During the investigation, it was
ambulance service. The proposed amendment, if
Amsterdam Fire Chief Michael Whitty had said determined that Morin was in possession of a controlled sub-
approved, would overturn a prior referendum vote.
no additional staffing would be required to operate stance. She was ticketed and is expected in Amsterdam town
The charter was changed after the public voted in
2004 to prohibit the fire department from operating one ambulance, which the city is looking to do at court at a later date.
an ambulance service. At that time, the fire depart- the moment. • Michael T. Power, 36, of 68 Elizabeth St., Amsterdam was
ment had proposed a city ambulance service as a The city fire department has 25 paramedics on charged Saturday with second-degree aggravated unlicensed
revenue item after then-Mayor Joseph Emanuele staff, with the remaining seven crew members being operation, operating a motor vehicle without interlock device
had proposed cutting one firefighter position to basic emergency medical technicians. Whitty does and unlawful possession of marijuana. Deputies said Power
address increasing expenses.
was driving on Route 30 when he struck a curb while turning
not anticipate any significant increase in overtime
In August, Corporation Counsel William Lorman
into the Walmart parking lot. Deputies allegedly determined
determined a public referendum was not required to by adding the ambulance service, with the depart-
Power’s driver’s license was revoked, he did not have an
amend the charter. ment operating four eight-man shifts.
interlock device when he was required to and was in posses-
sion of marijuana.
STATE NEWS IN BRIEF
Husband dies, wife rescued landed on its roof in a roadside creek. New York State Police
after car overturns in NY The Times Herald-Record of Middletown
• Eric Lugo, 34, of Amsterdam, was charged on Saturday
reports three members of the Beatty family
creek
with driving while intoxicated. Lugo was stopped onRoute 5 in
came upon the crash scene and found that the
FALLSBURG (AP) — Members of an upstate heads of Mayers and his 57-year-old wife the town of Amsterdam after troopers allegedly saw him throw
New York family are being credited with saving a Harriet were underwater. an object out the window. Lugo allegedly failed field sobriety
woman’s life after the car she was riding in land- Christopher Beatty used a knife to cut her out tests and and a pre-breath test screening also tested positive,
ed upside down in a Catskills creek after sliding of her seat belt and pulled her to safety with the according to troopers.He also had a blood alcohol content of
off an icy road. help of his relatives. He then pulled her husband .11 percent . He was issued tickets for depositing refuse on a
Police in the Sullivan County town of Fallsburg free, but he died. highway, and misdemeanor level DWI. He was released to a
say 72-year-old Vincent Mayers was driving Harriet Mayers was listed in stable condition at sober third party and is due in Amsterdam town court at a
Monday afternoon when his car crashed and a hospital. later date.
6 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 LOCAL The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y.
Fulton County Year in Review
A look back at some of the top stories that occurred in 2016
By MORGAN FRISCH
Recorder News Staff
Residents remained “Fulton County
Positive” this year as 2016 is coming to an
end. In 2016, Fulton County officials have
been working on a vision to stimulate
growth and economic development, voters
approved school capital projects that will
upgrade technology and safety for students
and the Gloversville Public Library
received a $2 million grant from the state.
Despite the positivity, other news in the
county was that Johnstown Mayor
Michael Julius died, a Gloversville man
was charged with killing his wife and hun-
dreds participated in the search for a miss-
ing 24-year-old woman.
GOVERNMENT
• The Board of Supervisors held a Vision
2026 Summit in November. The summit
Alex Cooper / Recorder staff
allowed community members to provide
Rachael Mattice walks to the front of
input on an economic development strategy
the courtroom with her attorney Robert
that’s being created by River Street Planning Abdella on Tuesday, Aug. 9, at the Levi Pascher/For the Recorder
and Development. The county initiated Mayfield Town Court. Frank A. Ostrander stands next to his attorney during his sentencing in October.
“Jump Start Fulton County” in 2014, which
included a series of projects tailored to
address today’s economic challenges. The
county had been working with River Street to
prepare a strategy that provides a vision for
future economic development. The summit
discussed some of the visions such as the Vail
and Hales Mills Road Extension develop-
ment areas, new retail and housing strategies
and plans for the Tryon Technology Park site
and proposed regional business park. The
board of supervisors passed a resolution in
December naming them lead agency for the
Hales Mills Road waterline project.
Construction is expected to begin in 2017.
This is the first step towards the development
project. The waterline is an aspect of the
Smart Waters initiative that was discussed in
“Jump Start Fulton County”. Smart Waters
will supply the towns in the county with
water connections and help increase econom-
ic development. The agreement between
Fulton County and the city of Gloversville is
key to starting the development.
• The county’s mascot “PLUS”, which was Levi Pascher/For The Recorder
created to coincide with the “Fulton County Levi Pascher/For The Recorder Firefighters battle a massive blaze at
Positive” brand visited several local school Firefighters work on a smoldering Harrison Street Warehouse fire. 395 South Main Street in Gloversville.
districts in December. Students learned phase one work should begin in spring. appeal the case, but Acting Fulton County November, the case was adjourned until a later
about the Vision 2026 Summit and created Phase one will consist of outdoor work at District Attorney Chad Brown said he still has date. Also this year, Mattice was arrested on
their own vision for the years to come. both campuses. Athletic fields, increased the right to appeal his constitutional rights for Oct. 6 with two counts of seventh-degree crim-
Board of Supervisors Chairman Charles parking and the installation of a separate a speedy trial or adequate representation. inal possession of a controlled substance, two
Potter said previously that he believed access road at the Broadalbin campus will Ostrander was previously indicted by a Fulton counts of possession of a controlled substance
PLUS could be used as an innovative tool be included in this phase. Many aspects of County grand jury on the second-degree mur- outside it’s original container, failure to keep
to allow the county to market its many phase one will be completed before the der charge as well as other offenses including right and moving from a lane unsafely.
positive attributes. 2017-18 school year begins. This includes first-degree assault, second-degree assault and • Two Gloversville buildings burnt to the
•Town of Caroga Supervisor Robert doubling the parking at the Perth campus fourth-degree criminal possession of a ground in March. The former Ted Thorne
Sullivan resigned in August. Sullivan said and adding the separate access road from weapon. He could have faced up to 25 years Lumber building, located on 397 S. Main St.,
it was difficult to balance his career County Highway 107 into the parent and to life in state prison on the initial charges. and the Harrison Street Warehouse located
responsibilities along with the maintaining visitor parking lot. The Perth campus will • The owners of Dad’s Music Shop, Garry
within the building at 5 Harrison St. Officials
the requirements of the position. Tony have a separate parent drop-off to to elim- Lane and his wife Audrey Lane,who were
deemed the fires suspicious and both have
Sturchio has been serving as the deputy inate vehicle stacking and conflicting charged for starting their Gloversville busi-
been investigated as arson. No one has been
supervisor. He was not interested in taking vehicle-pedestrian movements. ness on fire in 2015, officially accepted a
charged in connection with the crimes.
over the position. The Caroga Lake •The Northville Central School District $7.5 plea agreement related to the incident in
Republican Committee held a special million capital project was approved in March. August. Garry Lane pleaded guilty to third-
OTHER HEADLINES
meeting in September to nominate Beth Upon SED approval, the district could begin degree attempted arson and will face a one
• In September, the Gloversville Public
Morris to be on the general election ballot. the bidding process in April 2017 and start year sentence in Fulton County jail. Audrey
Library secured $2 million in state funding
Morris was elected on Nov. 8 and will take project work in July. The project includes inte- Lane pleaded guilty to fourth-degree con-
through the State and Municipality Facilities
over the position in January. rior upgrades and renovations, along with the spiracy and will face a sentence of five-years
Program. The grant advances the library’s
•Johnstown Mayor Michael Julius died in reconfiguration of district athletic fields. The probation.The couple attempted to collect
capital campaign to modernize and expand
July. The incumbent 66-year-old mayor was project also includes safety features such as insurance payments from the blaze. They are
the building which hasn’t been significantly
battling pancreatic cancer. He was previous- new exterior doors, fire protection improve- waiting to be sentenced.
renovated since it was built in 1904.
ly elected to serve as the Democratic candi- ments and three new sets of exterior stairs. • Johnstown resident Rachael L. Mattice was
• The Caroga Town Board approved the
date in the November 2013 elections. His Some of the oldest restrooms will be renovat- the center of a massive search throughout
creation of the Sherman’s Advisory
four year term was scheduled to conclude at ed, all lockers will be replaced and water-dam- Fulton and Hamilton counties in 2016.Mattice
Committee in February to help review pro-
the end of 2017. Vernon Jackson will take aged hallways ceilings will be re-done was reported missing in June after not being
posals of what to do with the former
over the seat in January. He ran unopposed. • The Fulton Montgomery Community seen at her family camp in the town of Wells.
Sherman’s Amusement Park. The purpose
College campus underwent several upgrades Authorities estimated spending over six fig-
of the group is to solicit and access legiti-
SCHOOLS over the summer.The former college book- ures in police resources during the search.
mate proposals and recommend the ones
Voters in several school districts store has been turned into three new meeting There were also vigils and outreach on social
they think are viable to the board. The dead-
throughout the county approved capital spaces, the Student Union has been updated media. Mattice returned to her family home on
line for proposals is Dec. 31.
improvement projects during 2016. and there were renovations to the bathrooms. July 6 and told police she was abducted by an
• The Walleye Challenge, an annual fishing
•The Mayfield Central School District The Raider Trader, the new campus book- unknown man who held her against her will.
event that takes place on the Great Sacandaga
$15.5 million project “Building the Future, store, is expected to open in January. She told police the man bound and blindfold-
Lake, was cancelled in January due to warm
Restoring the Past” was approved in January. ed her and locked her in a small shed. Mattice
weather conditions. The event’s raffle still
Goals include updating safety and security, CRIME said the man repeatedly assaulted her until
took place. The Great Sacandaga Lake
as well as energy updates. Aportion of phase • Frank A. Ostrander, 70, was sentenced to release. After a witness came forward, and
one has been complete. Phase two will 20 years in state prison in October, after plead- other forms of evidence, she was charged with Fisheries Federation also canceled its Jan. 30
include a new media center and construction ing guilty to a second-degree murder charge third-degree falsely reporting an incident. She ice-fishing contest due to the weather.
at the high school athletic fields. Other as part of a plea arraignment in August. pleaded not guilty during her first appearance. • After two drownings in the Great
aspects of the project include: providing a Ostrander admitted to killing his wife Sally In October, the case was adjourned due to the Sacandaga Lake over the summer, Sheriff
secure vestibule at the entrance of the build- Ostrander in February, by striking her multi- court ordering a plea-pre investigation. Richard Giardino made efforts to reinstate
ing and upgrading lighting to LED. ple times with a hatchet, fire poker and stab- Mattice was also charged with petit larceny, a county dive team. A fundraising effort
• The Broadalbin-Perth Central School bing her with a knife. Later in October, after allegedly stealing prescription pills from for one of the victims was able to raise
District’s $39.7 million capital project was Ostrander filed court documents with the a client while working as a home health aid. money to work with Montgomery County
approved in March. Superintendent appellate court reserving his right to appeal She pleaded not guilty to the petit larceny to purchase equipment and provide train-
Stephen Tomlinson said in November that the case. He had originally waived his right to charge in Hope Town Court in August. In ing to assist other dive teams instead.
The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y. NATION Wednesday,December 28, 2016 / 7
Police in Alaska capital city launch 2017 kindness campaign
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Sell said the idea emerged several
Following a year of deadly confrontations months ago as she contemplated what
between police and citizens across the direction Juneau police could take in 2017.
U.S., police in Alaska’s capital city are She said some “really hateful things” had
spearheading a campaign to turn 2017 into just happened nationally, including the
a community-wide year of kindness. ambush killings of five law enforcement
Juneau police will kick off the campaign officers in Dallas who had been working to
with public potlucks on New Year’s Eve keep the peace at a protest over the fatal
and New Year’s Day to encourage locals to police shootings of black men in
commit daily acts of kindness and to reach Minnesota and Louisiana.
out weekly to individuals outside their Juneau has had its own share of violence,
usual circles. including the nonfatal shooting of a man
Groups, businesses, government agen- Dec. 3, months after police first announced
cies and others also are choosing a differ- plans for the kindness project. No charges
ent week of the year for their employees to have been filed. Police have released few
conduct “kindness surges,” with correc- details, saying the shooting is under inves-
tional officers at the local prison taking the tigation.
first week. That was the first police-involved shoot-
Ideas being considered include visiting ing since August 2007, when police fatally
local senior homes, distributing care pack- shot a sword-wielding man. Juneau police
ages and paying for a stranger’s meal. also shot at a fleeing suspect’s vehicle in
The goal is to measure the impact of 2008, but nobody was hit.
kindness on such areas as crimes, suicides Some locals, including students, already
and emergency calls at the end of 2017, The Associated Press are exercising their kindness muscles.
In this Dec. 20 photo, Thunder Mountain High School Principal Dan Larson, left,
according to Lt. Kris Sell, who hatched the Last week, special education students
poses for photos with Mitchell Henderson, one of the students from Juneau-
idea in a partnership with the global kind- from Juneau-Douglas High School trav-
Douglas High School that spent a lunch hour handing out candy canes to students
ness advocate, Random Acts, and others. eled across town to hand out candy canes
at Thunder Mountain High School in Juneau, Alaska. Students passed out candy
“Can you change the quality of life in a at Thunder Mountain High School. A17-
canes as part of a kindness campaign spearheaded by the Juneau Police
community and prove that you have done year-old Thunder Mountain senior died in
Department that officially kicks off with the New Year.
so?” Sell said. September after accidentally shooting
Jennifer Willis-Rivera, development visit Juneau in January and again a year on kindness. “It’s something that every- himself.
after that. body talks about all the time, but usually
manager for the nonprofit Random Acts, Special education teacher Janette
To her, the excitement will come in see- we’re really only focused on it around the
knows of no similar endeavors by a police Gagnon said students wanted to offer some
ing the results after an entire year focused holidays, when there’s a tragedy,” she said.
department or city anywhere. She plans to cross-town support.
California teens rescued after boat capsizes
SALE ENDS 6PM JANUARY 3
LITTLE TORCH KEY, Fla. (AP) — Three strand- around 3:15 p.m. Tuesday when he got the call CLOSED NEW YEAR’S DAY
ed teenage boys from California called 911 and about the stranded teenagers.
calmly sat atop a capsized boat before being res- “He quickly put the boat back in the water,” SPECTACULAR YEAR END
cued from waters off the Florida Keys, authorities Herrin said in a statement.
said today. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation C CLLEEAARRAANNCCEE SSAALLEE
Monroe County Sheriff’s spokeswoman Becky Commission investigator David Bingham joined
Herrin says Zack Sowder and Brent Shishido, both
Hagar in the search for the boys. “They spent some
18, and Jacob Sowder, 16 — all of Orange County,
time looking, but they found the three boys and
California — were perched on the overturned hull, Giant Savings On Hundreds Of Obsolete Models, Floor Sampls, Prior
loaded them on board the patrol boat, bringing them
their life jackets trapped under the 22-foot vessel, Year Models, Scratch & Dent And Special Quantity Buys! To Many To
when help arrived Tuesday. safely back to shore,” Herrin said. List. Visit The Store Nearest You For Specially Marked Items!
The teens had anchored the 22-foot rented boat on
Marine Deputy James Hagar spotted the teens in the Atlantic side of Little Torch Key, which is some O% INTEREST FINANCING AVAILABLE! With approved credit.
waters about 2 1/2 miles off the coast and brought See store for details.
30 miles north of Key West.
them safely ashore in his patrol boat. A photo
Later Tuesday, Zack Sowder showed his sense of R REEFFRRIIGGEERRAATTOORRSS W WAASSHHEERRSS && DDRRYYEERRSS R R AANNGGEESS
released by the sheriff’s office showed the teens
seated on a small section of the hull that still jutted humor on social media.
above the waters. “Make sure your bilge works before you run five
“Fortunately they knew their rough location. They miles offshore and realize it’s too late,” Zack
were lucky they had a cell signal,” sheriff’s officials Sowder tweeted Tuesday night, along with two pho-
wrote on their Facebook page. tos from the scene. “Other than that great day on the
Hagar had just taken his boat out of the water water.”
THE NEWS IN BRIEF
Roof has death Mabry Highway in that Florida Col. Bill Grey, the Highway
Front Load Top Load
penalty case city early Wednesday after Patrol’s commander, said that Washer Dryer
hearing acting as receiving reports of a man “while we are saddened that the MHW5500F WTW4616FW
seen jumping on cars and act- driver was injured,” he’s thankful Gas Range
own lawyer
ing irrationally. the trooper wasn’t seriously hurt. French Door LOWEST PRICES with
Dylann Roof may soon show Police took the man to a hos- Arelease from the state Refrigerator Convection
how hard he intends to fight to pital, where he was declared Department of Public Safety MFF2558FEZ OF THE YEAR! MGR8650FZ
save his life as prosecutors dead a short time later. said the trooper stopped Lewis ....PLUS HUGE FACTORY
seek the death penalty for killing Police spokesman Stephen for a traffic violation Tuesday REBATES ON MOST BRANDS
nine black worshippers in a hate Hegarty tells local news outlets afternoon in Gastonia.
crime at a Charleston church. that the man banged his head Authorities said Wade tried to
Ajudge scheduled a hearing on a car windshield and began arrest Lewis after a license
today in federal court to hear bleeding. As officers tried to sub- plate check showed he was D DIISSHHWWAASSHHEERRSS
motions before the penalty phase due him, he kept kicking and wanted for probation violations,
in Roof’s trial starts next week. fighting, according to Hegarty. and that’s when Lewis “assault-
Roof is now acting as his own Hegarty says authorities ed the trooper with his vehicle.”
lawyer after letting go of his would investigate, including Local media reports Lewis tried
defense attorneys after a jury whether the man was under to flee, driving up an embank-
convicted him of 33 counts of the influence of some mind- ment and then reversing.
hate crimes and obstruction of altering substance.
justice earlier this month. Town rallies behind Bottom Electric
Roof’s lawyers say they think Trooper shoots, disabled veteran Freezer Range
WFE515QEW
he got rid of them because wounds driver who lost home ABB1921BRW ADB1500ADS MDB4949MDZ
they wanted to present what
reversing into him
Roof thought was embarrass- GRANBY, Mass. (AP) — A M MAATTTTRREESSSS CCLLEEAARRAANNCCEE SSAAVVIINNGGSS!!
ing evidence seeking to get the GASTONIA, N.C. (AP) — A small western Massachusetts
same jury to spare his life. North Carolina trooper shot into town is rallying behind a CLOSEOUTS, OVERSTOCK & FLOOR SAMPLES
a car, hitting and wounding the Marine veteran severely injured S SAAVVEE U UPP 7 700%% O OFFFF
Police: Naked man driver who was reversing into while serving in Afghanistan B BIIGG T TOO
the officer, authorities said today. whose custom-built home was
jumped on cars
Gaston County District made uninhabitable by fire the
along busy Florida
Attorney Locke Bell told local day after Christmas.
highway
media outlets that 31-year-old Sgt. Joshua Bouchard, who
VARIOUS SIZES TO CHOOSE FROM! •WHILE THEY LAST!
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Jeremy Lewis was airlifted to a uses a wheelchair after losing MANY OTHER SALE PRICED MODELS AVAILABLE!
Authorities say a man found Charlotte hospital and is part of a leg and suffering a Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri. 9-6
running naked along a busy expected to recover after the spinal cord injury in an explo- Thurs. 9-7 (cid:129) Fri. 9-6 (cid:129) Sat. 9-4
highway in Tampa has died shooting in nearby Gastonia. sion in 2009, saved himself ANYTIME BY APPOINTMENT
after officers tried to subdue Bell said Trooper Christopher and his two dogs when he real-
EVERY HDTV
him. Wade also was taken to a hos- ized his Granby home was on
www.LMTVappliances.com O N SALE!
Officers were called to Dale pital with minor injuries. fire Monday night.
8 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 OPINION The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y.
EDITORIAL
City shouldn’t
be chasing
ambulances
Efforts by city officials to have the
Amsterdam Fire Department take over as the
primary ambulance provider won’t stop — like
a recurring bad dream.
However, the latest chase of the pot of gold at
the end of the ambulance service rainbow now
has an ironic twist: the Greater Amsterdam
Volunteer Ambulance Corps — which has been
providing these services under contract to the city
for decades — says they’re fine with the idea.
Yes, GAVAC says they’re okay with the city
being the first ambulance provider.
GAVAC Operations Manager Mickey Swartz
said the organization has lost more than
$300,000 over the past two years.
COMMENTARY
Swartz said GAVAC’s current contract with the
city is based on a percentage of the amount of their Obama the great divider
billable calls, resulting in an approximate $120,000
to $130,000 in annual revenue to the city.
If the city takes over, the contract is voided
Barack Obama first came to national
and so is that revenue.
attention as a conciliator. It was 2004 at the W
Meanwhile, since the current proposal by e’ve got a new issue now, namely
Democratic National Convention and the
Amsterdam Fire Department Chief Michael Illinois state senator made a resounding, that Obama, thoroughly practiced in
Whitty and 3rd Ward Alderman Chad Majewski eloquent speech calling for national unity.
keeping unity at bay, is not about to let
Five years later, at his inauguration as pres-
includes only one city-operated ambulance,
ident of the United States, he made another his skills go to waste. He has said he
GAVAC will get the remaining ambulance calls.
resounding, eloquent speech, this time call-
Swartz estimated a loss of 15 to 20 percent ing for national division. will stay in Washington, D.C., to train
call volume for GAVAC — not enough to Or at least provoking it. Dr. Jekyll was Democrats on how to assume power
gone, Mr. Hyde was on hand and the heal-
require any layoffs. Coupled with the negation By ing physician has since been hard to spot as again and has explicitly said he will
of annual fees to the city, the move definitely JAY Obama has broken records in polarizing the speak out if he sees Trump going astray.
seems to make sense for GAVAC. AMBROSE country. He has stirred up class antago-
The problem is we’re not seeing any defini- nisms, heightened racial tensions and
helped instigate political stalemate. His halfway. So far, he had not, and, in McConnell’s view, his
tive numbers that show it will make money for
negotiation style with Republicans has been a modern-age uncompromising agenda was a thing to fear.
the city. The fact that GAVAC is losing money version of a king telling uppity peasants what they had Misleading critics love to kick McConnell without men-
should be an obvious warning sign that the pot darned well do. tioning how Obama started his tenure by telling some
of gold might be more like a bag of coal. And, on top of that and much more, he now appears Republicans he was president and they weren’t, implying
ready to harass Donald Trump from a prominent D.C. they should shut up. The adorers do not delve into the
Yet, the Common Council has already voted to
perch for the next four years, more or less serving as an ways in which subservient Harry Reid, easily among the
introduce a law amending the city charter to allow unofficial leader of disruptive antagonism. worst Senate majority leaders in U.S. history, did far more
the Fire Department to provide ambulance service. But let’s start with that 2009 inauguration speech that than House Republicans to block conciliation on issues of
Majewski is scheduled to hold a Public told us so much about the real Obama as he tried to tell us moment. They also excuse Obama’s vow to act unilateral-
ly if necessary after the GOP took over both houses of
Safety Committee meeting Thursday at 6 p.m., so much about President George W. Bush. As a report in
Congress in 2014.
The Guardian newspaper observed, Obama spoke of
outlining the project after the charter is revised. We’ve got a new issue now, namely that Obama, thor-
Bush’s eight years of running things as a time of “greed
He said residents can attend the meeting and oughly practiced in keeping unity at bay, is not about to let
and irresponsibility,” of “a sapping of confidence” and of
ask questions about the proposal. “a nagging fear that America’s decline is inevitable.” his skills go to waste. He has said he will stay in
Washington, D.C., to train Democrats on how to assume
We strongly encourage residents to do so. He announced an end to “the petty grievances and false
power again and has explicitly said he will speak out if he
More importantly, we hope residents will promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that sees Trump going astray. Hardly any president has ever
far too long have strangled our politics.” With Bush sitting
share their feelings on the concept of the city booed successors much — Jimmy Carter is a disgraceful
close by, the new president said the government must quit
taking over for GAVAC, since a public referen- exception — but it’s easy to imagine Obama growling
“protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant
through a media microphone on a daily basis.
dum held a dozen years ago resulted in a 2-1 decisions.” He said we must now “pick ourselves up, dust
Gallup did various polls during this administration
margin of people against the idea. ourselves off and begin the work of remaking America,” showing more political division in the country than ever
then failing to go over to Bush, pick him up, dust him off
If people can’t attend the meeting, call your before. Imagine what could happen with all the anti-
and apologize. Trump virulence, the mass protest rallies already planned
alderman and present your opinion.
This smooth, charming, brilliant but arrogant man con- and those now refusing to go to Canada despite pleas they
The intention of finding additional revenue tinued to pick on Bush for the next four years as Bush get their passports as promised.
for the city is a good one, but we need to see himself said nary a word. And yes, I’ve heard the stuff We seem to be in for something like a two-president
well-documented evidence that this is an obvi- about Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell saying he country, and the national hurt could be enormous.
wanted to make Obama a one-term president. That hap-
ous windfall before we can support a project
pened in a 2010 interview in which he also said he would Jay Ambrose is an op-ed columnist for Tribune News
that ignores the wishes of the people.
love it if Obama would try to meet the Republicans at least Service. Readers may email him at [email protected].
TODAYIN HISTORY
DOONESBURY CLASSICS ~ 1987 / By Gary Trudeau
Today is Wednesday, One year ago: Ateen
Dec. 28, the 363rd day fugitive known for using
of 2016. There are three an “affluenza” defense
days left in the year. for a drunken driving
ONTHISDATE: wreck and his mother
In 1832, John C. were detained in Puerto
Calhoun became the first Vallarta, Mexico.
vice president of the TODAY’SBIRTHDAYS:
United States to resign, Comic book creator Stan
stepping down because Lee is 94. Actress Dame
of differences with Maggie Smith is 82. Rock
President Andrew singer Edgar Winter is 70.
Jackson. Actor Denzel Washington
In 1945, Congress offi- is 62. Comedian Seth
cially recognized the Meyers is 43.
Pledge of Allegiance. — The Associated Press
The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y. POLITICS Wednesday,December 28, 2016 / 9
Diplomatic security challenges Trump expands inner
remain for president-elect Trump circle with homeland
security official, envoy
WASHINGTON (AP) —
Donald Trump hammered rival
Hillary Clinton during the presi-
dential campaign for failing to WESTPALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump
prevent the attack on the U.S. tapped an experienced hand from the George W. Bush era and a long-
mission in Benghazi, Libya, time Trump Organization official to become members of his inner cir-
when she was secretary of state. cle when he assumes office next month.
Soon he’ll be the one responsible Thomas Bossert will become an assistant to the president for home-
for protecting America’s diplo- land security and counterterrorism. Astatement from Trump’s transi-
mats, but he’s offered virtually no tion team said Bossert will advise the president on issues related to
insight into how he’ll do that. homeland security, counterterrorism and cybersecurity, and coordi-
After the 2012 Benghazi attack, nate the Cabinet’s process for making and executing policy in those
Congress boosted spending on areas.
security to protect the tens of The president-elect also appointed one of his main advisers on U.S.-
thousands of Americans and for- Israel relations during the campaign and transition as special represen-
eign staff that make up the U.S. tative for international negotiations. Jason Greenblatt has worked for
diplomatic service. Security the Trump Organization for over two decades and currently serves as
experts and career diplomats say its executive vice president and chief legal officer.
there have been improvements, The homeland security position notably “is being elevated and
but that significant shortfalls restored to its independent status alongside the national security
remain. adviser,” the statement said. Policymakers have long debated whether
Last week’s assassination of The Associated Press such national security jobs should operate independently from the
Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, In this Dec. 16 file photo, President-elect Donald Trump speaks White House.
Andrei Karlov, was a chilling during a rally in Orlando, Fla. Donald Trump hammered rival Bossert will work closely with Trump’s pick for national security
reminder that diplomats are Hillary Clinton during the campaign for failing to prevent the adviser, retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn. Bossert is currently president
increasingly exposed to threats, attack on the U.S. mission in Benghazi, Libya when she was sec- of the risk management consulting firm CDS Consulting. He previ-
even in countries that are typical- retary of state. Soon he’ll be the one responsible for protecting ously served as deputy assistant to the president for homeland securi-
ly not regarded as hardship posts. America’s diplomats, but he’s offered virtually no insight into how ty under Bush.
The assassin shouted, “Don’t for- he’ll do that. Donald Trump’s West Wing is shaping up to have multiple power
get Aleppo,” apparently referring position of undersecretary for improve safety. Mission security centers. Chief of Staff Reince Priebus and senior adviser Steve
to Russia’s military engagement diplomatic security. He called it chiefs can use more training, and Bannon will work as “equal partners,” according to Trump, and coun-
in Syria. the most important change “to ambassadors and other mission selor Kellyanne Conway is also expected to have autonomy. Trump’s
It’s not clear whether having a enhance diplomatic security.” He leaders should also be given influential son-in-law, Jared Kushner, will have a direct line to the
brashly outspoken figure like claimed committee Democrats greater authority over security president as well.
Trump in the White House will “stonewalled and played games matters since they are most Trump has long stoked rivalries among his staff in business and dur-
compound diplomatic security while we searched for the truth.” familiar with conditions on the ing his presidential campaign. But some critics fear doing so in the
challenges. The foreign policy of The top Democrat on the House ground, experts say. White House could sow confusion and slow decision-making.
Trump and his pick for secretary Intelligence Committee, Rep. Fred Burton, a former diplomat- Discussing the appointment of Greenblatt, Trump said he “has a his-
of state, Rex Tillerson, remains Adam Schiff of California, ic security agent, said mission tory of negotiating substantial, complex transactions on my behalf,”
somewhat of an enigma. accused Republicans of losing security officials “never had that and has the expertise to “bring parties together and build consensus on
The Trump transition team didn’t interest in diplomatic security ability to speak for ourselves at difficult and sensitive topics.”
respond to questions about how now that the election is over. these kinds of decision-making Trump recently named his other top adviser on Israel, David
his administration will address “Since the issue is no longer a meetings because you’re pushed Friedman, as his pick for U.S. ambassador to Israel.
diplomatic security issues. useful cudgel against Secretary down on this flow chart and then The billionaire-turned-president-elect is spending the holidays at his
Keeping diplomats safe is a Clinton, I fear the (Republican) you’re left ... with all the chal- Florida resort, where he’s held a steady stream of meetings with sen-
costly business. In the last budget majority’s commitment to diplo- lenges of being in a place like ior staffers, advisers and business executives. Anumber of key posts
year, Congress approved $3.39 matic security will once again Benghazi.” in his administration remain; his transition team says he will fill those
billion for the Diplomatic fade, and the State Department Burton, author of “Under Fire: positions in the coming days.
Security Bureau’s functions could face cuts both to security The Untold Story of the Attack in Meanwhile the president-elect continued the debate over whether he
around the world. That accounts budgets and to core diplomatic Benghazi,” said he’s not opti- would have won an election against President Barack Obama.
for about 7 percent of the State functions,” Schiff said. mistic the problem can be fixed Trump posted on Twitter Tuesday, “President Obama campaigned
Department’s overall budget. A2012 government inquiry fol- unless Tillerson is confirmed hard (and personally) in very important swing states, and lost. The
Diplomatic security has also lowing the Benghazi attacks “and his desire is to restructure voters wanted to MAKE AMERICAGREATAGAIN!”
become highly contentious since made more than two dozen rec- the bureaucracy inside State.” It wasn’t immediately clear whether Trump was referring to
the killings of Ambassador ommendations for security Traditionally, host countries Obama’s own presidential runs, or the campaigning the president did
Christopher Stevens and three improvements, highlighting seri- have been obligated by treaty to in 2016 on Hillary Clinton’s behalf. Obama swept most key swing
other Americans at Benghazi. ous lapses in management and protect diplomatic facilities. But states in his two bids for the White House, but Clinton fell short, los-
The Republican-led House leadership that left the consulate with non-state actors gaining ing to Trump.
Select Committee on Benghazi vulnerable. ground and capable of destabiliz-
concluded in June that there were The Bureau of Diplomatic ing governments, it’s falling to
lethal mistakes by the Obama Security declined to answer spe- the U.S. to take all precautions to Daily Bridge Club
administration, though it found cific questions on the areas where protect its diplomats while still
no “smoking gun” pointing to improvement is still needed, but giving them the freedom to do
wrongdoing by Clinton. The said that diplomatic security their jobs.
committee included Rep. Mike “constantly balances available Robert Ford, a former ambassa- by Frank Stewart
Pompeo, R-Kan., Trump’s pick resources to provide a safe and dor to Syria, said the most helpful
to head the CIA. secure environment for the con- way Congress and the adminis- Tribune Media Services
Another member of the com- duct of U.S. diplomacy.” tration could advance diplomatic
mittee, Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, Security experts and diplomats security is by providing “strong
criticized the Obama administra- say more can be done within support for locally determined
tion for refusing to create the individual diplomatic missions to security resource needs.”
US raises no objection over
Amsterdam
Free Library
China aircraft carrier drill 28 Church Street, Amsterdam, NY
842-1080
DEC. 2016-JAN.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States says China has the right 2017 EVENTS:
to sail in international waters after a Chinese aircraft carrier cruised
Thursday, December 29
past Taiwan and into the contested South China Sea.
STEAM Fair
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported Monday that the aircraft carrier
10:30am Preschool Learning Hour
and five warships sailed 90 nautical miles south of Taiwan, a self-gov-
erning island claimed by China. Beijing says it is a routine training Saturday, December 31
exercise. Library Closed
H appy H olidays!
China has previously accused U.S. warships of making provocative
passes through the South China Sea.
State Department spokesman Mark Toner said Tuesday the U.S. rec- Monday, January 2
ognizes lawful uses of the sea, and the same rights apply to the U.S., Federal Holiday - Library Closed in
China and other nations. Observance of New Years
He said, “as we often make the case with our own naval vessels sail- Thursday, January 5
ing ... in those same waters, it’s freedom of navigation.” 10:30am Preschool Learning Hour
Earlier this month, a Chinese navy vessel seized an U.S. Navy
Sunday, January 8
underwater glider that the U.S. said was conducting oceanic research
2:00pm Sunday Book Club: How the
in international waters off the Philippines.
Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents
The U.S. called the seizure illegal and made a diplomatic protest.
by Julia Alvarez
China returned the glider five days later.
Beijing claims most of the South China Sea. Five other Asian gov- Monday, January 9
ernments also claim ownership of islands and reefs there. 10:30am Preschool Story Hour
10 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 YOUR WORLD The Recorder, Amsterdam, N.Y.
Turkey, Russia discussing Syria cease-fire plan
BEIRUT (AP) — Turkish and Russian unnamed officials.
officials are discussing the contours of a Terror organizations would be kept out of
cease-fire for Syria, Syrian opposition fac- the scope of the cease-fire agreement, the
tions said, building on cooperation agency said, without elaborating on which
between the two countries following a deal insurgent groups would be considered ter-
they brokered for the evacuation of oppo- ror organizations.
sition fighters from the northern city of It said a peace process in Kazakhstan’s
Aleppo earlier this month. capital of Astana would go ahead under
Several rebel groups said, however, that Russia and Turkey’s leadership if the
they are withholding their approval of any cease-fire holds. Anadolu said the two
agreement until they receive details about countries would act as “guarantors” of the
its terms. peace process.
An official with one of the factions told Russian President Vladimir Putin’s
The Associated Press that Russian and spokesman confirmed Russia and Turkey
Turkish officials were debating a cease- were in “constant contact” to prepare for
fire proposal that would encompass the planned Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan,
whole of Syria. He spoke on condition of but did not comment about the possibility
anonymity because the talks were ongo- of a cease-fire.
ing. Rebels have spoken up in the past In the U.N., a top Russian diplomat said a
against proposals that would allow the draft U.N. Security Council resolution that
government to continue its offensives would impose sanctions on Syria for chemi-
around the outskirts of the capital, cal weapons use is unacceptable to Moscow,
Damascus. which has veto power on the council.
Turkey’s Anadolu Agency said this The Associated Press Aresolution drafted by Britain and France,
morning that Ankara and Moscow had In this Oct. 10, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left and Russian which was obtained by The Associated
reached an agreement, but there was no President Vladimir Putin, shake hands following the group photo at the World Press, would impose sanctions on an array
confirmation from state officials. Energy Congress, in Istanbul, Turkey. With his victory in Aleppo, Syrian President of Syrian individuals, organizations and
Bashar Assad appears to have survived a nearly six-year war to drive him from
The Syrian opposition official said fac- companies allegedly involved in chemical
power, but he is now more dependent on outside powers than ever. His key allies
tions were holding vigorous discussions weapons attacks in the war-torn country. It
Russia and Iran, along with Turkey, are best placed to determine Syria’s endgame,
over the possibilities. would also ban sales of helicopters to Syria.
which could more closely resemble a grand bargain among great powers than a
Another official with a different group Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov
political settlement among Syrians themselves.
said the proposal has not been formally was quoted by the state news agency Tass
presented to the opposition. on the condition of anonymity so as not to and aims for a cease-fire that would come today as saying the resolution “is categor-
“It is difficult to accept or refuse the mat- bias intra-opposition talks. into force “in all regions” where fighting ically unacceptable to us. We warn them
ter before we look at the details, of The Anadolu report said a plan would be between pro-government forces and oppo- against attempts to fan tensions in the U.N.
course,” said the official, who also spoke presented to all sides of the Syria conflict sition groups is taking place. It quoted Security Council.”
Second flight recorder recovered from crash site South Korean investigators
MOSCOW(AP) — Search teams today recovered detain ex-health minister
another flight recorder from a military plane that
crashed in the Black Sea, killing all 92 aboard, the
Defense Ministry said. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean investigators today
The first flight recorder was found the previous detained the country’s former health minister as they expand their
day and experts have started analyzing its data to inquiry into a corruption scandal involving impeached President Park
determine the cause of the crash. Geun-hye.
The Tu-154 of the Russian Defense Ministry The special prosecution team now has 48 hours to decide whether to
crashed into the sea early Sunday, two minutes after request a formal arrest warrant for Moon Hyung-pyo. Moon faces
taking off in good weather from the city of Sochi. It allegations that he pressured the National Pension Service to support
was carrying members of the Alexandrov Ensemble, a controversial merger deal between two Samsung affiliates last year,
widely known as the Red Army Choir, to a New even though the fund’s stake in one of the companies lost an estimat-
Year’s concert at a Russian military base in Syria. ed hundreds of millions of dollars in value.
The Defense Ministry said 15 bodies and 239 Investigators also summoned Kim Sang-ryul, Park’s former senior
body fragments have been recovered from the crash secretary for education and culture, to look into allegations that the
site. It previously said 17 bodies had been found. presidential office kept a “blacklist” of cultural figures deemed as
Amassive recovery effort has involved 3,600 peo- unfriendly to Park’s administration and denied them state support.
ple, including about 200 navy divers flown to the The Associated Press South Korea’s opposition-controlled parliament on Dec. 9 voted to
site from all over Russia. They have been aided by ARussian Emergency Ministry diver lifts a frag- impeach Park over allegations that she colluded with a longtime friend
drones and submersibles. ment of a plane in the Black Sea, outside Sochi, to extort money and favors from the country’s largest companies and
Investigators were looking into whether the crash Russia, on Tuesday. Investigators have recov- allow the friend to manipulate government affairs from the shadows.
might have been caused by bad fuel, pilot error, ered the flight-data recorder from a crashed Investigators have asked the Financial Supervisory Service to pro-
equipment failure or objects stuck in the engines. Russian military plane. vide personal wealth statements of about 40 people who are suspect-
The top Russian investigative agency said it had of malfunctioning flaps and pilot error, which ed of helping Park’s jailed friend, Choi Soon-sil, amass an illicit for-
taken samples from a fuel tank used to fill the plane, caused the plane to lose speed and stall. tune through her connections with the president.
which flew from Moscow’s Chkalovsky military Russia’s main domestic security and counter-ter- Lee Kyu Chul, an official from the investigation team, led by special
airport and stopped in Sochi for refueling. rorism agency, the FSB, said it found “no indica- prosecutor Park Young-soo, didn’t confirm who the 40 were or
The Komsomolskaya Pravda daily and online tions or facts pointing at the possibility of a terror whether investigators were tracking the wealth Choi inherited from
publication Life.ru published what they described attack or an act of sabotage” on the plane. her late father, Choi Tae-min, a shadowy religious figure who
as a script of cockpit conversation, with a pilot However, some aviation experts have noted that the emerged as Park Geun-hye’s mentor in the 1970s.
yelling about a problem with the plane’s flaps and crew’s failure to report any technical problem and the At the time, Park was serving as acting first lady after her mother
then shouting: “Commander, we are falling!” It was large area over which fragments of the plane were was killed in 1974 by a man trying to assassinate her father, military
impossible to verify the report, but both publica- scattered could point to a possible explosion on board. dictator Park Chung-hee, who was shot dead by his spy chief five
tions were known to have good connections with The Tu-154 is a Soviet-built three-engine airliner years later. The Choi clan had long been suspected of using their ties
Russian security agencies. designed in the late 1960s. Russian airlines decom- with Park to filch from government officials and businessmen.
Flaps are moveable panels mounted on the edge of missioned the noisy, fuel-guzzling aircraft years ago, Samsung, the country’s largest business group, is under suspicion
the wings to increase lift. but the military and other government agencies con- that it sponsored Choi to win government backing for the merger that
The Kommersant daily also said that investigators tinue using the plane, which is still loved by crews helped Samsung scion Lee Jae-yong promote a father-to-son transfer
believed that the crash was caused by a combination for its maneuverability and sturdiness. of leadership and boost corporate wealth at the group.
THE NEWS IN BRIEF
Pope accepts resignation of once- parishioners and financial issues. The Vatican ruled he Pakistan inaugurates nuclear plant
embattled Cleveland bishop didn’t follow church law and procedures in the closings. built with Chinese aid
VATICAN CITY(AP) — Pope Francis has accepted Madrid begins vehicle bans for 1st ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan’s prime minister has
the resignation of Cleveland’s bishop, who, in 2012, was time to fight pollution inaugurated a 340 MW nuclear power plant built with
overruled by the Vatican in his bid to close parishes. Chinese aid, the third of four such projects aimed at
The Vatican’s announcement today about Bishop MADRID (AP) — Madrid’s town hall hopes to sharply
addressing longtime energy shortages.
Richard Lennon’s resignation didn’t indicate when a reduce pollution levels by limiting vehicle circulation
In a televised speech today, Nawaz Sharif vowed to
successor would be named. for the first time, based on registration plate numbers.
eliminate power cuts by 2018, when his five-year term
Lennon, 69, is six years younger than the age when Deputy Mayor Marta Higueras said that barring some
expires, and set the ambitious goal of generating
bishops must offer to resign. He underwent a heart exceptions, vehicles with plates ending in even num-
8,800 MW of power by 2030.
procedure earlier this year. bers would not be allowed to circulate between 6.30
The government has not provided figures on the cost
The Vatican’s rebuff of his plans to shut 12 parishes a.m. and 9 p.m. Thursday.
of the plants or the Chinese contribution, saying only
was a rare instance when Rome reversed a U.S. bish- Other measures including a ban on street parking for
op on such closures. Parishioners had challenged clo- non-residents and reduced speed limits were already that Beijing has provided technical support and that
sures, holding sit-ins and even creating a breakaway in force today. Chinese engineers have worked on the projects.
congregation. The town hall said it was applying the restrictions Both Pakistan and its archrival India have nuclear
Lennon, Cleveland’s bishop since 2006, ordered the because of excess levels of nitrogen dioxide. It will arms.
closings because of dwindling numbers of priests and review the restrictions Thursday.