Children's Museum gets a visit from Santa Claus Nov 30, 2008
Gary Simons of Utica agreed. It's a just a wonderful place to spend time with the kids, he said. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Willis outlines his plans in Utica district Nov 29, 2008
Don't expect major changes when James Willis takes over as the Utica schools superintendent Jan. 1, 2009 ... 6 million capital project the Utica district passed this summer, Willis admits he has some catching up to do ... Community participation Willis said he and his wife, Lynda, a retired school cafeteria worker, want to take pride in being part of the Utica community and not just work in it. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Clinton event kicks off Christmas season Nov 29, 2008
The parade was one thing that the nieces and nephew of Meggan O'Hara of Utica and Michele Misiaszek of Whitesboro were looking forward to Friday night. The two sisters were watching their nieces and nephews -- Emily O'Hara, 7, Sarah O'Hara, 6, Grace O'Hara, 5, Molly O'Hara, 2, Abbey Copperwheat, 7 and Logan Copperwheat, 4. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Despite tough economy, spenders stream to stores Nov 29, 2008
Farney, of Buffalo, was visiting family in Utica, and had to park a quarter of a mile from the store ... Another thrifty shopper, Nadine Washington of Albany, was in town because she was visiting her parents in North Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Uticans plan trips to Obama inauguration Nov 29, 2008
Departs: 8 p.m. Jan. 19 from Mohawk Street in Utica ... One of them is Senora Pierce of Utica ... Former Utica Councilman Ed Hill said people have been asking him about tickets and he has requested some. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Uticas spending up, sales tax revenue down Nov 29, 2008
Uticas spending up, sales tax revenue down - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch ... Uticas spending up, sales tax revenue down ... In order to navigate a multitude of budget challenges like proposed state funding cuts and higher utility costs, Utica officials say they are. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Zecca, West Uticans begin drug-fighting initiative Nov 29, 2008
Craig Grant, HomeOwnership Center community coordinator, speaks with West Utica resident Denise DiCicco on Friday, Nov. 28, 2008, in front of her Flagg Avenue home after handing her a packet of information about stopping drug-related activity. Grant and other West Utica community leaders began an initiative Friday against drugs and drug crimes ... West Utica community leaders began a fight Friday against drugs and drug-related crime in their segment of the city. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Police: Man beaten in robbery Nov 29, 2008
Utica firefighters also responded to the scene. Loading commenting interface. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Medicare plan changes available Nov 28, 2008
Utica: The North Utica Senior Citizens Community Cen ter, 50 Riverside Drive, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Rome: The Ava Dorfman Senior Citizens Civic Center, 305 E. Locust Street, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
From a brain injury, a blessing Nov 28, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Corey Roberts, 17, left of center, joins family members, counterclockwise, mother Lynn Roberts, grandparents Duane and Jackie Roberts, grandfather Val Pollard, great aunt Mary Abraham, aunt Lori Pollard, sister Jamie Roberts, 23, and her boyfriend Nicholas Gallo in prayer before eating their Thanksgiving dinner, Thursday, November 27, 2008 in Yorkville. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Rescue Mission dishes up a homey Thanksgiving Nov 28, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Volunteers, left to right, Andrea Mitchell of Utica, Don Stasiw of Utica, Eric Carpenter of New York Mills and Kathleen Ellsworth of Deerfield divide the cranberry sauce into bowls during the Great Thanksgiving Banquet at the Rescue Mission of Utica, Thursday, November 27, 2008 in Utica ... Community members from across the region pulled together again this year to treat guests at the Rescue Mission of Utica's annual Thanksgiving dinner Thursday to good food... (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Public Eye: Security at school building Nov 27, 2008
DAVE LONDRES / Observer-Dispatch The Utica City School District's Conkling Administration Building on Mohawk Street, Wednesday, November 19, 2008 ... The issue: The Utica schools Conkling Administration Building on Mohawk Street is the only building that holds children during the day and does not have a security officer ... The impact: Utica board member Margaret Buckley said the building is open, and thus susceptible to unauthorized people coming into contact with the children. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Txt msgs & drving not 86ed Nov 27, 2008
Txt msgs & drving not 86ed - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch ... Legislator Ed Welsh, R-Utica, who proposed the law, said he would speak to board leaders to see if he could reintroduce it again next year. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Horse owners giving thanks on anniversary of fire Nov 27, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch NICOLE L. CVETNIC/Observer-Dispatch Samantha Bossone, 13, of Utica shares a moment with her four-year-old horse, Thorne while standing in a rented stall at the Tantivy Farm Trailer Sales, Sunday, November 23, 2008 in Vernon ... Bossone of Utica said the anniversary comes just a few weeks after her new horse won a two-week struggle for its life with pneumonia. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Despite the rain, a night of light Nov 27, 2008
MICHAEL LAPOLLA / Observer-Dispatch Christmas lights during the Wonderland of Lights with the Utica Roadrunners opening the light show through the lights with a Run for Safety at the Masonic Care Community, Wednesday, November 26, 2008, in Utica ... The Utica Roadrunners lit the way for Christmas-light peepers Wednesday as they ran through the Wonderland of Lights, located throughout the Masonic Care Community on Welshbush Road. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
After 20 years in prison, N.Y. man acquitted on DNA Nov 26, 2008
UTICA After more than 19 years in prison for a murder he didn't commit, Steve Barnes has rejoined his family just in time for Thanksgiving. Barnes walked out of Oneida County Court a free man Tuesday after a judge agreed new DNA evidence cleared him of raping and killing 16-year-old Kimberly Simon in 1985. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
Utica police probe armed robbery Nov 26, 2008
Utica police late Tuesday night were investigating a reported armed robbery at Domianos Market on Whitesboro Street ... There is believed to be no injuries, as no Utica Fire Department rescue vehicles were called to the scene. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Economy slows down Thanksgiving travel Nov 26, 2008
08 Utica-Rome average $2 ... WKTV meteorologist Matt Lanza Tuesday said the Utica area should have decent weather throughout the weekend ... Carol Martin of Utica said her family normally travels to see friends and family in Pennsylvania for Thanksgiving. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Willis to be new schools chief; board OKs Gerace contract Nov 26, 2008
Observer-Dispatch James Willis was chosen as the Utica City School District superintendent ... The next superintendent of the Utica City School District Tuesday night said helping students maximize their achievement will be among his top priorities when he begins work Jan. 1, 2009 ... James Willis, who is currently the assistant superintendent of human resources at South Country Central School District in East Patchogue on Long Island, was appointed to his new job in Utica following a unanimous... (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Man shot in Utica Nov 26, 2008
DAVE LONDRES / Observer-Dispatch Utica police officers investigate a shooting in the 1500 block of Dudley avenue the night of Tuesday, November 25, 2008 ... A man was shot shortly after 7:30 p.m. in the 1500 block of Dudley Avenue, Utica police said ... The suspect fled the scene on foot, Longo said, and the victim was brought to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Kettle campaign goal: $70,000 Nov 26, 2008
The Utica Salvation Army launched its Red Kettle Campaign at 5 p.m. Tuesday announcing a goal of $70,000. Last year, about $55,000 was raised out of the $70,000 goal. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Gobble gobble: Principal dresses as turkey Nov 26, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. Costume reward for students' successful food drive. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Fire Academy graduation Tuesday Nov 25, 2008
The Utica Fire Academy will graduate its 14th class at 10 a.m. Tuesday, the Utica Fire Department announced. The ceremony will take place at the Masonic Home Administration Building on the Masonic Home campus on Bleecker Street in East Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
After 19 years, Barnes to be released today in teen's 1985 murder Nov 25, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Steven Barnes is escorted from the Oneida County Court building following a hearing regarding his wrongful conviction in the 1985 rape and murder of Kimberly Simon, 16, Monday, November 24, 2008 in Utica. Barnes did not appear in court, and Judge Barry M. Donalty adjourned the proceeding until tomorrow. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Innocence Project gets involved Nov 25, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. Mother's 1993 letter got Innocence Project to help Barnes. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Fugitive found at Sangertown Square Nov 24, 2008
John Longo, 34, who provided a Utica address, was discovered there and charged with criminal possession of marijuana, police said ... Longo, who police said has ties to the Utica area, is also wanted in Kentucky on charges including carrying a concealed deadly weapon, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and multiple vehicle and traffic violations, police said. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Sauquoit craft fair still successful after 30 years Nov 24, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC Pat Caruso of Utica looks at various stained glass creations Sunday that were on display at the Link's Stained Glass Creations booth during the 30th annual Sauquoit Valley Fine Arts & Crafts Show at the high school ... Hagearty said the craft fair was the reason she d moved to Sauquoit from Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Lower gas prices could hurt county Nov 24, 2008
In the Utica-Rome area, the average cost of a gallon of gas is now about $2. 24, according to figures from AAA. Just one month ago, it was $2. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
County airport poised for takeoff Nov 24, 2008
In addition to creating a one-stop hub for maintenance, Gray wants Griffiss to be an education center for aeronautical skills. Why not here. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Woolworths: everything must go Nov 23, 2008
Frank Woolworth opened his first store, in Utica, New York State, in 1879 with the gimmick that everything was priced at five cents. It failed because it was too far out of the town centre, but a second shop in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, became a roaring success. (guardian.co.uk)
Innocence Project quest Nov 23, 2008
Earlier this month, Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute in Utica conducted a program called the Art of Innocence, which told the stories of some of those exonerated through theater, film, lecture and discussion. Some of the guests included former prisoners. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
County may keep all OTB revenues Nov 23, 2008
Utica Mayor David Roefaro called the county s move a trickle-down effect, but said he couldn t blame Picente ... Losses for the municipalities would range from Utica s $35,000 down to just a couple of hundred dollars for some smaller villages, according to 2007 county figures. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Morris stepping down from post Nov 23, 2008
Michael Arcuri, D-Utica, and state Assemblywoman RoAnn Destito, D-Rome ... A couple of his biggest accomplishments were the elections of Utica Mayor David Roefaro and U.S. Sen ... Utica Councilman James Zecca, D-2, said his friend Mitch Ford should be considered for the county chairmanship. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
New Hartford area rises, falls with retail sales Nov 23, 2008
Areas that are heavily dependent on retail are not recession proof, said Rick Fenner, an associate professor of economics at Utica College ... You have to be smart, Utica resident Susan Radell said ... Jobs are not the most important benefit of retail centers, said Charles Whalen, a professor and director of business and economics at Utica College. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Holiday spirit nestles into Children's Museum Nov 23, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Tracee Schiebel, 15, and mother Lyn, both of Vernon, look through pictures of their favorite Christmas trees on a digital camera Saturday during the Festival of Trees at the Childrens Museum in Utica ... They certainly weren't Charlie Brown's Christmas trees at the Utica Children's Museum Saturday. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Will Barnes be freed? Nov 23, 2008
- Utica, NY 13501 - The Observer-Dispatch. Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Snowy roads trigger accidents across region Nov 22, 2008
WILLIAM P. CANNON / Observer-Dispatch Snow falls Friday, Nov. 27, 2008, on Oriskany Street in Utica as a band of lake effect snow moves through area ... Conditions could have been worse, but the storm traveled south of the Utica area, WKTV meteorologist Matt Lanza said Friday night ... At 8:45 p.m., Deerfield firefighters went to accident on Walker Road about one mile north of the Utica border. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Fire displaces Vernon family Nov 22, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. Observer-Dispatch Posted Nov 21, 2008 @ 09:23 PM Last update Nov 22, 2008 @ 12:19 AM. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Rome to exchange students with China Nov 22, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. Mayor Brown still on overseas business trip. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Thruway Accident Nov 21, 2008
The tractor trailer driver, Raymond Maxim of Utica, suffered minor injuries in the accident. The accident happened just after 9 o'clock Wednesday night in the westbound lanes near exit 24. (FOX23 News, NY)
Forum on race aims to improve relations Nov 21, 2008
ROCCO LaDUCA/Observer-Dispatch YWCA Racial Justice Director Patrick Johnson speaks during an all-day public forum on race relations Thursday at Radisson Hote-Utica Centre ... Every day we wake up, we re waiting for that random racist moment, Benson told a crowd of about 200 people who attended the all-day forum at Radisson Hotel-Utica Centre ... It s good we understand the historical mistrust minorities have had toward police officers over the years, but now, instead of talking about differences... (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Police: Suspect steals beer at knifepoint Nov 21, 2008
Utica police late Thursday night said they were searching for a man who stole beer from a William Street store at knifepoint. The incident happened at about 8:50 p.m., and it's believed the suspect left the scene in a vehicle. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
LaGasse back in court after murder conviction dropped Nov 21, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. PATRICK PALLADINO In November 2005, Oneida County deputy Lt. Robert Ruhm, left, escorts Ricky LaGasse to court. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Hanna offers concession to Arcuri Nov 20, 2008
Republican challenger Richard Hanna congratulated incumbent Michael Arcuri on Arcuri's re-election to a seat in the 24th Congressional District, during a news conference held in Utica, Wednesday ... The fact this was such a close race was not lost on Arcuri, D-Utica, and his campaign, he said. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
Teen due to be sentenced in high school fistfight Nov 20, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. NICOLE L. CVETNIC/Observer-Dispatch Matthew Baker, 17, of Westernville, stands alongside Assistant Public Defender Mark Curley in Oneida County Court during a proceeding in October related to assault of Baker's friend, Josh Lyman, 17, in a hallway at Holland Patent High School. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Enhanced police retirement plan proposed Nov 20, 2008
Utica city board could approve contract today ... MICHAEL LaPOLLA / Observer-Dispatch Cesare Tomaselli, left, talks to Utica patrol officer James Laurey about problems with area kids cutting through his yard after school and causing property damage ... The Board of Estimate & Apportionment could vote today at a special meeting about a three-year contract between the John E. Creedon Police Benevolent Association and the city of Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
2 injured in Sangertown crash Nov 20, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. Observer-Dispatch Posted Nov 19, 2008 @ 10:27 PM. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Power Authority on Buffalo road trip Nov 20, 2008
The December trustee meeting will be held in Utica on Dec. 6. with other visits planned to Syracuse and Albany. (Buffalo Business First, NY)
Utica approves students' lunch policy program Nov 19, 2008
Utica schools have approved a new emergency meal policy program to ensure students receive a lunch even if they don't have the money to pay for it. The plan provides students with a meal if they do not have one or money for one - the parents are then charged for the meal. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Hotel Utica gains ground on loan payments Nov 19, 2008
O-D archive photo Hotel Utica ... Hotel Utica s owners recently paid more than $118,000 in city taxes and loan payments, according to city records ... Utica Mayor David Roefaro said the city has been monitoring the hotel s income and ability to make the payments. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Oneida County may ban texting while driving Nov 19, 2008
The state is not acting fast enough, said Legislator Ed Welsh, R-Utica, who is taking the lead on the law ... Ayla Dougherty of Vernon and Cordella Lyon of Utica, who are both mothers, said they liked the idea because they worried about young drivers ... Residents views Lucia Feliz, 18, of Utica, said she knows many people who text while driving. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
RPI Football Faces Alfred in ECAC North Atlantic Championship Nov 18, 2008
Both teams have played and defeated Utica College, St. Lawrence University and the University of Rochester. Email Story. (FOX23 News, NY)
Local groups fear cuts Nov 18, 2008
I certainly am hoping they don t make cuts to child care subsidies, because I really do believe that would have a negative impact all over on our local economy, said Jane Domingue, executive director of Utica s Thea Bowman House, which offers programs for low-income families. Utica City School District Superintendent Marilyn Skermont also was concerned. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Operation Sunshine call center opens Nov 18, 2008
Luckily, 75 families signed up to help on Monday, the center s opening day, said Connie Marcus, program manager for Catholic Charities of Utica ... It supplies volunteers to operate the call center, located at the Salvation Army of Utica on Clinton Place ... Other agencies participating in Operation Sunshine this year include The Rescue Mission of Utica and the Salvation Army of Utica. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Lake-effect snow in mid-season form Nov 18, 2008
Area north of Utica gets accumulation of about 2 feet. Loading multimedia. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Local League of Women Voters celebrates 50th anniversary Nov 17, 2008
For 50 years, the League of Women Voters of the Utica/Rome Metro Area has been educating, registering and advocating on behalf of voters. On Sunday, the group celebrated its golden anniversary at the Hart s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
New Hartford library budget receives boost, for now Nov 17, 2008
Your browser either has JavaScript disabled, or does not support it. NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Sisters Alayna, 2, and Kira Painter, 3, of New Hartford play at the New Hartford Public Library during a library play group Friday, Nov. 14, 2008, in New Hartford. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Winter storms, quicker tows in Utica Nov 17, 2008
The Utica Common Council recently approved a change to the city s snow-emergency rules that they hope will allow for the faster towing of vehicles and safer city streets during snowstorms ... Utican Gary Sutch said he supports the plan ... Utica officials said they will provide the public with ample warning about snow emergencies through the local media and flashing blue lights on some streets. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Rotary, church serve up pasta with a purpose Nov 16, 2008
Rotary 7150 goes from here to Utica, Rossmann said. There are 47 clubs and then you put that with all the other districts in New York if we all raise 1,000 a year that is a goal we can reach. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
Slow-speed Thruway pursuit ends locally Nov 16, 2008
Police quickly apprehended Loy, who was then sent to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica for self-inflicted knife wounds, police said. Numerous charges are pending, police said, and Loy also will be undergoing mental evaluation. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Story of 98 Wyoming murder told in Utica Nov 16, 2008
Story of 98 Wyoming murder told in Utica - Utica, NY 13501 - The Observer-Dispatch ... Story of 98 Wyoming murder told in Utica ... A cast of 12 local actors will wrap up The Laramie Project today with a performance at 2 p.m. at Utica Monday Nite headquarters at 106 Genesee St.. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Report blasts public contract secrecy Nov 16, 2008
Taxpayers too often are being kept in the dark about details of contracts with public employee unions such as one involving Utica s teachers, according to a new report from a government watchdog group ... The report by the Albany-based group cited the Utica City School District s contract with its teachers union, which was ratified in September ... In the case of the Utica contract, teachers received a 5. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
Harvard preys on St. Lawrence Nov 16, 2008
Utica 6, UMass-Dartmouth 1 - Josh Merson had a goal and two assists and Anthony Luckow had 19 saves as the Pioneers (4-1-1) routed the Corsairs (2-1-0) in a nonleague game in New Bedford. Curry 8, WNEC 1 - Jeffrey Hazelwood had two goals and two assists for the visiting Colonels (3-0-0, 3-0-0 ECAC Northeast). (Boston Globe -- Sports)
Economy sends more workers back to college Nov 15, 2008
NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch Mohawk Valley Community College freshman Kelly McVicar, left, 18, gives a guided tour of the college center to Kathy Peluso of Amsterdam, her husband, Paul Peluso, and their son and potential student Dan Peluso, 17, at the schools Utica campus Friday. More people are turning to higher education to gain more skills as the economy gets tougher. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
New Hartford highway boss looks ahead Nov 14, 2008
For the past 36 years, Sherman has worked at the state Thruway Authority, working his way up from a seasonal employee to his present position as section maintenance supervisor of the road from Utica to Canastota, which includes responsibilities for plowing, paving, mowing and general maintenance. He was appointed unanimously by the Town Board. (Utica NY Obserer, NY)
