Plattsburgh Times

Faith, God and Earth

2010-05-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

By Ashleigh Livingston
As the nation celebrated its fortieth Earth Day on April 22, many Americans took time to appreciate their natural surroundings, participate in environmentally friendly activities and educate themselves about environmental issues. The day also served as a reminder of how environmental concern has grown over the past four decades and given rise to numerous organizations and government legislation. No longer is concern about issues such as pollution, habitat destruction, and global warming limited to just ecologists, animal lovers, and those “tree-hugging hippies.” These days it seems that environmentalism can be found just about everywhere, even among various religious groups.
“The environment for us is God’s creation,” says the Rev. Jim Ball, former president and CEO of the Evangelical Environmental Network, a national group that teaches that caring for the environment is an essential part of being connected with God. “The activities [members of the Evangelical Environmental Network] engage in, we call creation care.”
Ball, who is currently the senior director of the network’s climate campaign, says creation care includes efforts to protect the world’s poor from climate change, educating people on ways to reduce pollution, efforts to protect endangered species, reading the Bible and encouraging people to spend time in nature because God is revealed in nature.
Environmental activism among churches is growing, Ball says, and eventually it won’t be newsworthy.
Plattsburgh is already seeing what Ted Meskunas, Chair of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Plattsburgh’s Green Sanctuary Committee calls a, “correlation between religious health and environmental health.”
Meskunas says that the UUFP is a congregation in which every person is important and has an equal place. The fellowship is committed to spiritual growth, he says, but “we don’t discount anyone’s beliefs.”
As chair of the UUFP’s Green Sanctuary Committee, Meskunas says he is part of the fellowship’s efforts to become certified as a green sanctuary, a status that is granted to Unitarian Universalist congregations that demonstrate a commitment to being stewards of the earth. These efforts include eliminating the use of paper cups and planting trees, he says.
Environmental issues are also popular among members of Plattsburgh’s Temple Beth Israel, a reform Jewish synagogue, Rabbi Andrew Goodman says.
“This congregation in particular is a very special group because most of the people, I would say probably 90 percent of the people, aren’t from this area originally…and they’ve chosen to come up here, and often it’s because of, or at least influenced by some of the beauty outdoors,” he says. “ So the fact that we are tucked in the Adirondacks, right on Lake Champlain, it tends to be a more natural minded group…so because of that we actually do have a very open minded, earth minded, environmental minded congregation.”
Goodman says that even beyond his congregation, environmentalism is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition.
“Judaism started out as an agrarian society, so there was an acute awareness of seasons, of growing [and] of food… because without being aware of how the earth works and without taking care of it, people wouldn’t eat for a year,” he says.
As for how this tradition translates into modern Jewish life, Goodman says he is currently focused on dietary issues from both an environmental and Jewish perspective. He recently taught a course offered to members of the congregation in which he discussed organic farming, the consumption of meat from animals that have been properly treated and the importance of supporting local farmers rather than large corporations.
Still, some religious groups are hesitant to devote too much time and energy to environmental issues. For example, Doug Kashorek, Minister of the Plattsburgh Church of Christ, a Christian church with no denomination, says that although it is important, “to be good stewards of the environment that God has made,” he says, “there’s a danger in actually worshiping the created things rather than the creator.”
While Kashorek is an advocate for recycling and says that his congregation participates in activities such as high-way cleanups, he also says, “any group that would put the environment above human needs, [such as groups that may be] stopping projects from going forward because they are afraid there’s a certain spotted owl or something like that,” may be focusing too much on God’s creations, rather than on God.
Goodman says Kashorek’s fear of false worship is not as much of a concern in Judaism. In tending the Earth, being socially responsible, striving for sustainability, making sure everyone has enough food, and striving for social justice, we are connecting ourselves to God, he says.
Meskunas seems to hold a similar view. “I see God in everything,” he says. “I don’t see that you can separate pieces and parts.”

Prayer day has mixed views among students

2010-05-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Sivan Kaufman
There is controversy, there are arguments, and there are groups dedicated for and against it. However, the first Thursday in May does not sound like something familiar to many Americans and in the Plattsburgh area—heavily a Christian population—it is often a day overlooked.
The National Day of Prayer was established in 1952 by President Harry S. Truman. The official Web site for the holiday not marked by calendars states that the mission of the day is to “communicate with every individual the need to repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for America and its leadership,” specifically for government, military, media, business, education, Church and family.
The closest event to Plattsburgh will take place in Ticonderoga at 6:00 p.m. on May 6 at the Bicentennial Park, lead by Pastor Steve Blanchard. Those attending are encouraged to bring one item to donate to the Ticonderoga Food Bank.
However, not everyone has a friendly approach to the day and the younger generation has mixed views on a day dedicated to Christian prayer.
“Bullshit. Why is there only one National Day of Prayer for Christianity only,” Turner Sasina, a college student at Plattsburgh State, said. “If there is gonna be one you gotta have ‘em all if you wanna be fair.”
Sasina is a non-confirmed Methodist and does not find the holiday appropriate, due to the fact that the government and state are supposed to be separate. Sasina said with a day dedicated to one religious group it appears as though the government is pushing Christianity on people.
“It is not like you have freakin’ Muslim prayer day,” he said.
Junior Aaron Anctil agreed.
“Do I think it is appropriate? No. My reason for thinking that is because they put Christianity over anything,” Anctil said.
The major issue is not that there is a day of prayer, but that the day focuses completely on Christianity and not on any other religion. The good that could possibly come out of the say, Anctil said, is “some sense of unity from it, but that’s only a part of the nation and not the whole.”
With no listings more local than the Ticonderoga event, the Plattsburgh area will not be having any public events for the holiday. Whether or not any events go on, freshman Josh Thomas said the day does not impact him.
“I don’t care, I think it’s only offensive if what [people] pray for is offensive,” Thomas said.
Even though recent controversy on the day has made recent headlines, particularly with the Obama Administration fighting a judge’s decision that the day is unconstitutional, Thomas stated that the holiday is just as appropriate as any other. He said he thinks people should be free to celebrate whatever they want as long as it “does not impede on the rights of others.”
Thomas was born a Christian but said he is personally not very religious.

University Police help keep peace on campus

2010-05-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

By Bryan Foti
Public safety is an issue that people in the community talk about. Law enforcement agencies in Plattsburgh work very hard to keep the citizens safe.
SUNY Plattsburgh starts classes late in August and ends the academic year in middle of May. The job of the University Police is to keep the peace on campus. Arlene Sabo has been the Chief of University Police at SUNY Plattsburgh since 2001.
She says the main difference between campus police and non-campus police is that “societies, parents, students, place a higher expectation of safety upon educational institutions versus the general areas around the college.”
She says the main reason that there is a higher expectation of campus police, is because parents are sending their precious children to the campus with the expectation they will be safe and can develop educationally without interruptions or hazards. Sabo uses an example when she explains that if a car gets broken into off campus the person will probably not call the mayor to complain but it is not uncommon for a parent to call and complain if that crime would happen on campus.
Sabo thinks the Plattsburgh community sees the University Police in more of a helping role. The University Police has a suicide prevention program to help people that are in distress. Another program that station offers is a behavior assessment committee. The program was started in response to the Virginia Tech incident where a gunman shot and killed 32 people and wounded many others back in 2007. The committee investigates concerns of students regarding the behavior of fellow students, which may be questionable.
The University Police has to handle crimes that take place on campus. Jerry Lottie is the assistant chief at University Police at SUNY Plattsburgh.
Lottie has plenty of experience he has worked as a campus police officer for 24 years. He has held the positions of UP officer, UP lieutenant and UP investigator.
Lottie says there are two shifts of duty for officers daily. The day shift and the night shift. During the day shift, officers get a mix of service reports and some criminal reports. The night shift is when most crimes occur.
He says “the top three crimes we get here at Plattsburgh are petty larceny, alcohol, and marijuana offenses. There are numerous noise ordinances issued.”
Lottie thinks there are peak times when most crimes are committed. The first being the first weekend the students are back at school. The second the weekend right before thanksgiving break. The third right before spring break.
Lottie has mixed opinions about the campus to community relations he says “the Campus City Coalition is working very hard to enhance the relationship between the students and the city.”
Sabo describes college students as “good individuals that are here to better themselves. They show this through the community service they do and only a small minority of students commits crimes.”
University Police go through an extensive amount of training that teaches them how to keep students safe. Most of the training takes place during the summer months because there are not as many students on campus.
In addition to the University Police Plattsburgh, students may also deal with City Police in Plattsburgh.
Scott Beebie is a Lieutenant for the City Police. He thinks the main difference between University Police and the city police are that the City Police’s primary focus is the enforcement of New York State law and local municipal law.
The top three crimes in the city were different from the crimes being committed on campus. The top three were property crimes, harassment or assault and alcohol offensives related with driving.
Beebie does not believe that crime goes down when the University students go home for summer and winter break because all the young people of Plattsburgh who were away at school come home and the community size is roughly the same.
“During the school year we keep a close watch on Broad, Brinkerhoff, Court, and Couch Street because there is a lot of foot traffic in a small confined area” Beebie says.
The city police shifts are from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. and 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. The police cover a lot of things and Beebie says there is no such thing as a typical day.
He says “you cannot predict anything we just respond to the call when it comes in.”
The city police go through rigorous preparation, and they take the mandatory state certified police academy course that lasts for 22 weeks. From this point, officers when they pass the academy, will be on probation for a year and this is the point where you “sink or swim” Beebie says.
Police also go through specialty training as well. Examples are internet fraud and investigating. Beebie feels the Plattsburgh Police are very good at keeping up to date.
Fire Safety is a big concern as well. Lottie is a big advocate of fire safety.
“As a society we do not view fire as that important” he says.
Lottie thinks that most students over look fire safety when they are looking into off campus apartments. The students will not check for fire exits and see if the building has a fire extinguisher.
Dan Pond is a volunteer fire fighter in Somers, NY and is a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh.
Pond says, “Fire safety starts with fire prevention. You have to be proactive rather than reactive to it. It is critical to be aware of the potential risks involved with fire.”
Pond thinks that the off campus houses meet the bare minimum of requirements. “They pass the code but who actually knows if they are safe and will work in an emergency.”
Pond thinks an escape plan is a good thing to have but says it is very difficult to coordinate because everyone’s schedule is different.
Pond believes it is smart to keep clothes away from heaters. He thinks that people should not over use power outlets. He also advises not to use candles in the house.
Jesse Dambrackas won the Vermont volunteer fire fighter of the year award in 2008. He is a freshman at SUNY Plattsburgh. He believes that smoke detectors have to work and should be tested every month.
Dambrackas says, “You rarely see smoke detectors in off campus housing because they are either covered or unplugged because most people smoke in the house.”
Public safety law enforcement does a good job keeping the community safe. Fire safety is a big priority among the police as well.

Local restaurants provide outdoor dining

2010-05-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

By Caitlin Fitzpatrick
With the summer approaching some local restaurants have been opening their outdoor dining areas for those who want to enjoy the weather while eating.
The Naked Turtle, a restaurant known for having outdoor dining, has just recently opened its doors again to the public. The restaurant opened for the summer on Thursday, April 29.
The Naked Turtle is located on Lake Champlain and offers casual meals, such as burgers, and more upscale meals, such as pasta and steak, at reasonable prices. The restaurant is also open late on the weekends as a bar for those who want a night out on the town.
Katie Rogers goes to the restaurant for a good meal and also a fun time on the weekends.
“The Turtle is such a good atmosphere because it’s right on the lake,” she said.
Rogers adds that the restaurant is fun on the weekends because of happy hour specials and the bands that they offer on a weekly basis and it also offers a good choice for food.
Olive Ridleys, located in downtown Plattsburgh, is another restaurant that offers outdoor dining to its patrons. The restaurant is open year round and also has a bar that is open late night on weekends as well.
Like the Naked Turtle, Olive Ridleys offers casual and upscale meals at decent prices. For students at SUNY Plattsburgh, it also accepts cardinal cash for food.
The restaurant is known for offering a large stage where it hosts comedians and bands.
Although most of the restaurant and bar is inside, at a common council meeting on Thursday, April 15, the common council approved Olive Ridleys for an outdoor table license in which the restaurant requested that some of their outdoor parking spaces be used for outdoor dining starting on May 11.
Lauren Parthemore, a former waitress at the restaurant, believes that having outdoor dining will increase the number of patrons that come into the restaurant to eat.
Parthemore believes that outdoor dining is appealing to some because people enjoy combining the nice weather and atmosphere with food.
Geoffreys Pub and Restaurant, also located downtown on the corner of Peru and Broad streets, offers a casual atmosphere and traditional pub food along with more casual, modern meals.
The meals are also priced reasonably and Geoffreys accepts cardinal cash accommodating students at SUNY Plattsburgh and has happy hour specials every day.
For outdoor dining, the restaurant and pub has a large patio located in the back top level of the restaurant where customers can enjoy both food and the summer weather.
Adriana Sibrizzi, a student at SUNY Plattsburgh, says the restaurant appeals to her because of the cardinal cash aspect and also because of the outdoor patio which allows her to soak in the sun while eating her favorite foods.
“I really like how there’s a patio; it definitely gives the restaurant a feel of summer,” she says.
The restaurants patio has been open for a few weeks now, and based on the weather the restaurant will serve its customers outdoors.
The Bistro, also located on Lake Champlain at the Treadwell Bay Marina and Resort, is a restaurant that is only open for the summer and opened its doors to the public on May 1of this past weekend.
For those who enjoy outdoor dining in the summer, there is a patio overlooking the marina.
The restaurant offers casual breakfasts and lunches and more upscale dinners.
Gerilynn Crandall, is a customer that often frequents The Bistro and specifically came to the restaurant for its opening when visiting this past weekend.
Crandall says that the outdoor dining and the view of the water keep her coming back to the restaurant when she’s in the area.
She also adds that The Bistro offers great seafood and fish.
For those who enjoy sailing or own a boat, people who become a member of the Treadwell Bay Marina and Resort get a 10 percent discount on food at The Bistro and also at Geoffreys Pub and Restaurant.
Bistro customers also get free docking at the marina while dining.
With summer approaching diners can be sure that the Plattsburgh area offers many choices for those who want a taste of warm weather with their meals.

Community churches providing mental support

2010-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

By Melissa Erny
An increasing number of high school students, young adults and every other age group are committing suicide have been coming into light. It has raised concern among all kinds of groups ranging from people having these suicidal thoughts to parents of children being bullied in high school to coworkers of people who just seem off.
For some people, therapy isn’t enough, so where else can they turn? The answer could be right down the street or around the block, holding Mass every Sunday. It is not the first place thought of when it comes to suicide, but churches are doing their part to help too.
In 2006, suicide was ranked the 11th most common cause of death for all United States citizens and the third most common for young people, according to research done by the American Association of Suicidology. They found that in that year 33,300 people died as a result of suicide. Their study also notes that the number of suicides between 2004 and 2006 has shifted back and forth from slightly decreasing to stable. However, this does not mean that it is still a problem. New York alone had 1,326 in 2006 coming in fifth behind California, Florida, Texas and Pennsylvania.
Katherine Dunham, associate professor of the Department of Psychology at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, says it is difficult to identify one common cause that would explain why most people want to commit suicide.
“Contributing factors can include pre-existing mental illness, history of depression and hopelessness, traumatic experiences, substance abuse and many more,” Dunham says.
Suicide hotlines can be called and people can seek professional help from therapists but can connections be made with people in the community as well? For many different problems, people look to their church or find a religion for help. Could suicide be the same thing? Depending on where you go, the answer can be yes.
Maggie Edwards, a student at SUNY Plattsburgh, has suffered the effects of suicide and found sanctuary in the church. She was 8 years old when her brother died and last month she lost a friend to suicide. Those who have been the most supportive of her were members of her church. Even though they have assured her that it is a sin to commit suicide, they have been there for her and her family. On April 24, she held SUNY Plattsburgh’s first American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Campus Walk where students and people in the community could attend and walk for the cause. Edwards’ church donated over $1,000 to the cause.
The Church of the Nazarene on 187 Broad St. will be addressing the issue through the youth group they have every Sunday evening, reaching out to children and teenagers in kindergarten through 12th grade. Though an exact date is not set, Associate Pastor Kevin Finley says in the near future the group will be watching a film called “To Save a Life”, which had been specially screened at the Cumberland 12 movie theater to bring suicide awareness to the community.
“We certainly try to stay aware,” Finley says. He also hopes that if people needed to talk about this problem that they would try and get in contact.
Elizabeth SanSoucie, the office manager and pastor’s wife at the Assembly of God, says, “Our pastors would council somebody.” She says that they want people to find “hope in Christ” and that they would be more than willing to talk to someone in this situation. They can be found at 164 Prospect Ave. in Plattsburgh.
Some churches, like the Plattsburgh United Methodist Church at 127 Beekman St., have professional councilors available. However, they have never had anyone come to them with thoughts of suicide. Rev. Marion Moore-Colgan says if someone came forth with this problem, they would first refer and strongly encourage them to call the suicide hotline. The number for the Clinton County Suicide Hotline is 1-866-5PREVENT (1-866-577-3836).
However, there are some churches that will not address the issue. An unnamed representative at the First Presbyterian Church in Plattsburgh simply said there are no programs and did not comment on the issue any further.
“Due to the very negative views that most religions put forth about suicide, it is entirely possible however that suicidal individuals may in fact go to great length to hide their feelings from fellow churchgoers, eliminating the possibility of obtaining help or social support from them,” Dunham says. The No. 1 thing that churches can do for these people is to provide social support. She says they need to be sensitive.
“It is possible to make the suicidal person feel worse if the response is not understanding and empathetic toward their feelings,” Dunham says.
Family, friends and clergy who they interact with at Mass can help them by convincing them to seek trained, professional help. She says that a person’s social connections are only a “frontline” that can help the person to do what is right for them. She suggests doing this by giving them phone numbers or finding them agencies to visit in as positive a way as possible. Even if they resist, do not dismiss, ignore or criticize their feelings. She says that if they reject the idea and feel help won’t work, it is just a part of the suicidal mindset that makes them pessimistic. The best thing anyone can do to help is try to find them a professional.

Teens volunteer for summer through local churches

2010-05-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

By Amanda DeLosh
As Americans we are known to help one another out in times of need. The faith, morals and values that one has usually puts into perspective on how we will live our lives.
Teens today, who attend church, usually participate in volunteering activities because their church will offer such things. There are many opportunities for teens around the Plattsburgh area with local churches to get involved this summer and help out around the community.
“I remember going to church school and they would tell us about programs going on and how we should help, “ Jessica LeClair says, who has moved away from the area about 9 years ago. She used to be from Massena, and soon moved to Vermont and went to a Catholic school where they were taught to always help out your community.
The Plattsburgh United Methodist Church offers many programs for people who are in the giving mood.
“Mission is an important part of the United Methodist Church. There are many ways to get involved and contribute your time and spiritual gifts. Whether it’s in the church community, local community, or world community, everyone has the potential to affect positive change in the lives of others, and to enrich and be enriched by the interweaving of our journeys,” says the churches mission.
The Plattsburgh United Methodist Church offers a family program that provides shelter and meals for families who are in need. These families help other families find housing and employment while they are in a safe spot.
Another relief effort that this church offers is once called, UMCOR. It is a not-for-profit global humanitarian aid organization that is involved in 80 different countries. The mission of this group is to help those suffering dude to natural causes, or by war and natural conflict. Plattsburgh’s United Methodist Church lends a hand by sending health kits, school kits, and flood buckets.
“I think having these opportunities to help out is great, “ LeClair says.
For a more community based volunteer program this church presents an Interfaith Food Shelter, which according to the church, “was established to meet the needs of people in our community.”
It provides community awareness of the problem, which is all around, and for those who are more fortunate, may not see.
Another way to volunteer time is with the soup ministry through the Plattsburgh United Methodist Church. Here, they prepare and deliver soup to people in need and people are always welcomes by the church to help with this program.
Helping others in times of need can be both rewarding and heart felt. This summer there is an opportunity at the Strawberry Festival that is held each June, along with the Autumn Festival, which is held in September, to provide fellowship and is a time where people can come together to help the church’s mission. All of these proceeds will go towards the church’s mission in the end.
Summer brings heat, smiles, a time of family togetherness for some and a time of working and helping for others. Teens this summer looking for something extra to do can contact their local churches and find out what they offer for volunteer programs.
“When you think of summer you think of fun, but there are other people around who are not so fortunate, so really it’s a rewarding feeling,” LeClair says.

Stand Theater renovations and rebirth continue

2010-05-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

By Katherine Clark
Imagine a theater with imported silk wall coverings, box seat niches, exotic wood walls, Italian marble floors, a 96 light chandelier hanging gracefully from an ornamented ceiling, and aluminum detail from a time when aluminum was more precious than silver.
Now stop imagining and take a trip down to the Brinkerhoff Street where the North Country Cultural Center for the Arts is restoring the Strand Theater to its former glory.
The Strand Theater has been through a series of changes through different times and different owners. It has been divided, gutted. It has been turned into office spaces and multiple movie theaters. Now the Strand is undergoing renovations to be restored to the same grandeur patrons witnessed as they walked in through the American walnut doors on December 24, 1942.
The opening of the Strand Theater marked Plattsburgh as an epicenter of entertainment. The Strand was only one of a few theaters of its kind that had ever been erected in any Northern New York City.
From its first films “Hot Water,” with Harold Lloyd to a 1996 Phish concert, the Strand has stood as an icon of its own for the performers that have gotten to perform there.
In 2004 the NCCCA purchased the theater and has been working to restore the theater to be a performing arts center and to be historically accurate to 1924 standards.
Primarily run by the dedication of volunteers, the restoration has been made possible through funds and time donated to the reconstruction.
“Volunteer labor has made it happen,” said Leigh Mundy, president of the board of trustees for the Strand Theater.
Major work has been done by professionals such as grant administrators, Brother’s Contractors, architect Fred Keil, and Jonathan Ortloff who has been restoring an original 1924 Wurlitzer organ piece by piece to sit in the orchestra pit in the Strand.
“It’s coming together little by little but we’re getting there,” said Keil. “It’s more of a research project than anything.”
Keil has been working to reconstruct the interior and exterior of the Strand to be “Historical in a way, modern in safety.” Working with the original designs and bringing it up to 2010 building codes.
“Originally there was a half wall in the back of the theater, so if there weren’t enough seats people could watch from the back, but we had to put a full wall up where the half wall was to meet building codes,” said Keil.
Taking away modern feel for things as simple as an emergency exit sign, Keil said the goal is for modern safety features to not interfere with the 1924 atmosphere by camouflaging features such as fire sprinklers and bringing in hand made stained glass exit signs made by a local artist, Susan Daul.
The theater house could not be a theater house without the 1924 Wurlitzer organ being restored by Jonathan Ortloff, organist and organ builder, has been volunteering his time and experience to restoring a donated 1924 Wurlitzer organ for the past three years.
“One thing that makes ours (Wurlitzer) so special is that only 2,500 of these organs were made between 1910 and 1930, there’s a lot out there but a lot have been erratically altered, there are only 10 that haven’t been altered in anyway. Our organ is a living, working, musical piece of history,” said Ortloff. “In that way the organ is much more rare than the theater is.”
To gain historical recognition, the simplest task of picking a wall color is not so simple, the exact colors for the walls and ceilings that must be approved by historical society.
“All colors have to be analyzed by each level down to the wood and then approved by historical agency,” said Keil.
Mundy said that the colors approved in 2008 by the historical society must be re-analyzed; the approved colors must be reapproved before painting can start.
“It’s slow and rewarding, once it’s done it will make Plattsburgh a more wonderful place, and give people a reason to stay in the area. We have businesses bringing in highly educated employees, we have an amazing hospital, amazing education, beautiful lake and what the Strand will do is open up the cultural corridor to Plattsburgh,” said Mundy.
The NCCCA has received the money it needs to finish the facade and Marquette with money from a 2006 grant.
There many things left to be completed for the building to be finished; a new roof must be installed, and a heating system must be put it. Regardless, Keil said that the theater could be finished within a year if all of the funds were available.
“Federal money is fast, state is slow,” said Mundy. Mundy said that the Strand has been approved for grants from 2008 that are just recently coming in.
“We need to match whatever money we’re approved of before we can receive grant money.”
The Strand Theater restoration project is run primarily with the help of volunteers, grants, and donations. Mundy said she works every day as a volunteer to make this project happen.
The Strand received 768 Spick-and-span handsome new chairs from American Bodiform, in 1948. “The most comfortable and increases ones pleasure at the theater,” according to an article from the Press Republican from, 1948.
Today about 212 seats have been purchased by private contributors to have the seats reupholstered and restored. Anyone who would like to make a donation to the Strand Theater can contact the NCCCA and can specify where that donation will be attributed.

‘Chatroulette’ causes concern for some parents

2010-04-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

By Melissa Erny
A high school student like Kelsey Hageman does it when she hangs out with friends. Alex Cooper says he uses it whenever boredom strikes. In college, Maggie Edwards uses it with her friends to prepare them for a night of partying. Frank Violante even gets on when his lectures hold no interest for him and needs something to do in class.
So what is this new “it” thing that has everyone talking? It’s an internet phenomenon sweeping the nation called Chatroulette and teenagers are hooked.
In order to participate, a person must go to www.chatroulette.com and have a webcam available. The site instantly connects you with a stranger using the site who could be anywhere in the world. This act of connection is commonly called a spin. You may then proceed to talk to this stranger via microphone or an online chat window next to the viewing screens of each camera. If a user is not interested, a pass option is available. This restarts the process of finding someone else. There are no screen names and studies show that pairings are completely random.
Violante, 19, was more than excited to share his experiences. He had nothing but positive things to say. “I met one of my new best friends on there. Me and her talk almost every day.”
However, not everyone has had such a pleasurable experience with the site.
“I’m not really too fond of it because you never know what’s going to come up on it. Some people are really creepy and you don’t know what they’re going to do on camera,” says Serena Timmerman, a 15-year-old high school sophomore. She prefers not to use the site because of this aspect.
Although it is connecting people across the globe more instantly and personally than ever before, many factors play into the program that people should be aware of. Anyone who use the site should be cautious of what could be on the other end and parents of children using it should know what their children are viewing.
Robert J. Moore, the CEO and co-founder of an on-demand database analytic and business intelligence startup called RJMetrics, posted data that his company collected based on 2,883 Chatroulette sessions last month.
Around half of the people researchers connected to on the site were from the United States with France being the second most common. 89% of the time spins result in a male alone. The majority of people using the site, 70% of users, are between the ages of 20 and 30.
One of the most controversial aspects of Chatroulette is the explicit content that can so easily be viewed. RJMetrics also analyzed these aspects of the site.
“Some users, which we have affectionately labeled ‘perverts’, fit into any of these three categories: appear to not be wearing any clothes whatsoever, are displaying explicit nudity, appear to be committing some lewd act,” says Moore. They found a pervert 13% of the time, less than 1% of them being female. This means a person is two times more likely to find a sign – an image a user has put up in place of their camera – requesting female nudity than he or she is to actually find it.
This has concerned parents furious.
Jeanine Mitchell sounded angry and disgusted at the very mention of Chatroulette. “There’s a problem with people flashing naked body parts,” she says. Being the mother of a daughter in college and two children in high school as well as being a speech-language pathologist helping children with autism at Onondaga Cortland Madison County Boards of Cooperative Educational Services, she strongly advises against any use of the site. She has repeatedly told her children not to use it because of the scandalous reputation Chatroulette holds.
Thomas and Bernadette Nihill have varying opinions on their college daughter and high school son using the site. Mr. Nihill knows the risks. He thinks that more research should be done before he lets his children use the site. “You don’t know what you’re gonna get.”
Mrs. Nihill agrees for the most part, but she believes that with more work it could be acceptable. “If it could be under control, I think it could be fine to do.”
For parents hoping for more safety features on Chatroulette, change is coming. Early last month, the 17-year-old founder of Chatroulette in Moscow, Andrey Ternovskiy, made an announcement about the clean up to MSNBC.
He announced that there is now a “Report inappropriate video” link that users can click to make him aware of a pervert’s Internet Protocol address so he can block his or her connection from the site. He comments in the article, “I have also been experimenting with new report system. CR should be clean from bad stuff now.”
People still disagree, however. In the same article, Perry Aftab, the executive director of WiredSafety.org and an attorney specializing in Internet privacy, states his thoughts. “I do not see that Chatroulette is doing what they need to do to protect the user. I recommend people stay away from that site.”
Approve or disapprove the fact remains. Despite skepticism this new technology has grasped teenagers and young adults all around the world and doesn’t look like it is letting go. Nothing can be done to stop it, so the best thing anyone can do is this: educate yourself and know the consequences so you can be aware of what you’re dealing with.

Finding work during tough economic times

2010-04-20T10:25:00.001-07:00

By Max Rouzier

Jean LaVerdure, 58, visits OneWorkSource daily to check his email, read current news and write.
LaVerdure is a union electrician out-of-work due to the nature of union work.

“The union work is intermittent,” says LaVerdure. “I’ll have three months of work, then time with unemployment. But I get by.”

LaVerdure has a spouse and maintains his lifestyle in spite of the employment downturn that has nearly 10% of Americans unemployed. He still eats well and pays his bills while his ample free time allow him to hike the high peaks in the area, write creatively and read.

“[Unemployment] if it’s something you’ve never experienced this, it is traumatic, but for people in union work, we’re used to it,” says LaVerdure. “we know how to scramble and handle ourselves.”

This is when Susan Gallagher comes into play. As the community service center manager, she oversees the job-finding opportunities available at the OneWorkSource office. She notices noticing simple trends becoming available for people looking for work.

“Right now there is a strong emphasis on green jobs. Some jobs aren’t considered green at first, but now anything that reduces a carbon footprint- is green,” says Gallagher. “That means occupations like mass transit or windmill production and even some construction.”

Besides construction and mass transit, Clinton County is seeing considerable job gains and in March, 27,600 citizens became newly employed in local education, health, leisure and hospitality services. Unfortunately, the losses are still high and overshadow the recent gains.

These statistics contrast the national and state numbers being reported by the Department of Labor. New York State lost more than 300-thousand jobs over the past two years and the North Country accounts for nearly a third of these numbers with major job losses in manufacturing, information services, government and business services.

According to the Department of Labor the North Country has the highest rate of unemployment outside of New York City at 8.9% (recorded in Nov 2009). In Clinton County, unemployment is a high 10.6% as of February 2010.

The WorkStopSorce staff works hard to engage unemployed citizens with free services to get them prepared for the process of finding the right work and applying to specific jobs. Each month the office hosts workshops on resume-building, computer skills, interviewing skills, ability tests, e-mail usage and a host of other skills to build individual marketability in the new competitive workforce.

Paul Grasso, executive director of the Work Force Investment Board, works alongside Gallagher to ensure local employers uphold state and federal laws and makes sure that the center reaches employment targets.

Grasso stands by the work of the whole team and says, “this location exemplifies the idea of spreading hope for citizens out of work. In a nut shell, that is what OneWorkSource is all about- hope. The counselors here are well-versed to help you out and to give you the right resources to handle unemployment.”

The counselors at OneWorkSorce handle any citizens social, financial and overall well-being because it all comes into play whether someone is newly unemployed or has been out of work for years. The staff devotes all their resources to the public on a first-come, first serve basis, while senior citizens get priority service always.

Although the services available are not only offered to the unemployed; dozens of employed people come by to improve their hiring marketability. These people also get the chance and place their resumes within the database where local employers search regularly for matching profiles they would like to hire.

Peter A. Neenan, Director of the Division of Research and Statistics, says our losses in New York State are leveling off. “However, following previous recessions, it has taken the state about five years, on average, to regain all of the jobs lost during a downturn.”

LaVerdure makes himself at home in the computer lab and in his calm and refreshing manner shares advice with me that he hopes can comfort people struggling. “I started as a college drop-out, got my drivers license at 36 in 1989. Then went back to school for a degree in American history. So I keep reminding myself to count my blessings. Look on the bright side. The weight of the world works itself out.”

Plattsburgh City School Board approves budget

2010-04-20T10:20:00.001-07:00

By Ashleigh Livingston
“We have a budget, ladies and gentlemen,” said Plattsburgh board of education President Clayton Morris, to the small crowd gathered at the former Duken Elementary School gym for the board of education meeting on Thursday, April 8. Morris’ statement immediately followed the board’s unanimous acceptance of a $ 37,519,424 budget, which carries a projected tax levy of 2.45 percent and calls for the elimination of 13.25 positions, as well as, both the summer school and GED programs.
While the elimination of over 13 positions is alarming to some, especially when it occurs during a time when unemployment rates are staggering and lack of government funding is forcing many public school systems to cut enrichment programs, the positions being cut within Plattsburgh’s city school district may not directly result in layoffs nor in the loss of programming, James “Jake” Short, superintendent of Plattsburgh city schools says.
“The vast majority of those [eliminations] are being done through attrition, people retiring that we are not replacing,” he says. “We’re not exactly clear on how we’re going to shuffle everybody around, but basically 13.25 positions are being pulled out, and the principals can already see within the master schedule how we can consolidate and not lose any programs for students.”
Two of the districts teachers may be “recycled” into teaching assistants, Short says, which would be a reduction in pay for those individuals; however, it would allow them to remain employed by the district.
Although the budget preserves all of the district’s enrichment programs, including the Odyssey program and the orchestra, both the summer school and district-run GED programs are being eliminated, at least for now.
Since no students graduated during summer school last year and, only one or two students did the year before, Short says he is not concerned about the program’s elimination hindering students from graduating in the short term; however, he thinks the long term effects could be problematic.
“The effect is more a problem, in my opinion, if the cut remains for two and three years out. If we make it a one year hiatus, the effect is fairly minimal.”
As for the GED program, Short says about 64 percent of students who participated in the program passed the GED exam, which he does not consider to be a high success rate. This and the fact that cutting the program could save the district about $30,000 made the program easier to eliminate, he says.
Former students seeking a GED in PLattsburgh may be able to acquire one through BOCES or CV-TEC; although, the BOCES GED program availability is based on enrollment numbers and is sometimes not offered, and the CV-TEC GED program is intended for adult learners.
Cathy Snow, program manager of the CV-TEC adult literacy and GED programs says, “Under our current funding, CV-TEC is only allowed to provide GED services for students under the age of 19 who meet the following requirements: they have been officially dropped out of school for one year or their 9th grade class has graduated. The majority of students who are 18 do not meet these qualifications.”
Snow calls the loss of the district-run GED program “unfortunate,” and says that she is not certain at this time weather CV-TEC will be able to accommodate individuals displaced by the program’s elimination. She says CV-TEC administrative meetings are planned to discuss the matter.
Short says that city school students have been warned about the elimination of both the summer school and GED programs and have been advised to “buckle down” on their school work because alternatives are not as available.
“There is a part of [making alternatives less available] that I kind of like because I think when you make people rise to the occasion, the majority will, but we’re not so closed minded to think that there’s [not] going to be a few students that it just is completely unrealistic to expect that [from], and we want to at least have a back door or a way to try and help them if we can,” he says.
Though the board of education approved the school budget for next year, which is up slightly from this year’s budget of $37,484,438, local tax payers will have the final say in whether the budget is accepted when they vote on it in May.
If the budget is passed, the board will then have the responsibility of setting the tax levy in July, which is projected at 2.45 percent. This would mean a median tax increase of $72.27 before STAR exemptions, according to data from the city assessor’s office; however, Short says that the projected levy is really a worst case scenario and will depend on the amount of state aid the district receives.
“There’s a pretty strong feeling right now that we’ll receive a little bit more state aid. Some of the reduction that has been reported to us will probably be restored, not all of it, but maybe half, and if half of it is, the board will very likely go back and look at reducing the tax levy,” he says.
Local tax payer and former board of education member, Dale Dowdle, says that he feels the tax levy is a minimal increase, and he plans to vote in favor of the budget; although, he says he is disappointed about decreased enrollment at the high school, and he plans to submit his concerns to the board in a written comment card, which is made available to voters at the polls.
Fred Wachtmeister, a current member of the board of education says that although some people have addressed the board with tax concerns, the majority of tax payers seem supportive of raising taxes in order to preserve enrichment programs.
“How that translates into votes,” he says “is anybody’s guess.”
While the city’s school budget vote has traditionally suffered from low voter turnout (about 400 to 500 voters, says Wachtmeister), Short thinks maybe this year will bring out more voters than usual who are in favor of keeping special programming and who generally take it for granted that the budget always passes.

Civil War Reenactment held weekend of May 14

2010-04-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Sivan Kaufman
In an effort to preserve the Union, the regiments will be gathering to set up camps and defend the nation. The Civil War is returning to Plattsburgh; the army trained and ready to fight off the enemy and keep the United States as one nation. This army is one of many in the local Plattsburgh area made up of volunteers, some students and CEOs on the average day.
This army is Plattsburgh’s reenactment regiment.
May 14 will bring the 3rd annual Civil War reenactment, hosted by the Clinton County Historical Association where it will take place in land adjacent to the Battle of Plattsburgh Association at the air base.
“It was kind of my dream to get a Civil War reenactment happening in the local Plattsburgh area,” Matt Hewson, a member of several reenactment groups and founder of this particular event, said.
He originally brought the idea up while working as an Eagle Scout with the Clinton County Historical Association and it was well received, he said. The goal isn’t to portray a specific battle, but to bring people an idea of what the Civil War might have entailed in its fights he said.
With four to five canons, a large number for an event this size, and the 11th N.Y. Artillery sponsoring the event, reenactment members believe it will be another successful year.
Commander of the 11th N.Y. Artillery Scot Wilson said as “a living historian” it is his and the groups job to bring history to people hwo would not normally be able to visit famous battlegrounds, such as Gettysburg.
“I personally do living history for one major purpose and that … we don’t glorify war,” he said. “What we do is preserve memory of those who fought during the American Civil War. Most important is that we became the United States as a direct result of that conflict. “
He and Hewson have known each for years. Hewson, a Plattsburgh state sophomore, is a self-proclaimed history buff and Wilson is a father of five and CEO for a company. The difference in age and experiences matters little for these people who are united for a common love of history. They work together under the national organization The United States Volunteers, which organizes all civil war reenactors, Hewson said.
The Civil War reenactment usually draws in high numbers of people, Hewson said, and will be followed by another event hosted by the Battle of Plattsburgh Association a week later about the military timeline featuring historic talks and firing demonstrations.
Daniel Flora is one of the dedicated members who will travel all the way from Illinois in order to be a part in the Civil War reenactment in May. He made friends with Hewson during other reenactments in the area and enjoys the Civil War one in particular.
“Having an event that he’s hosting is fun and it’s a good excuse to go out in that direction,” Flora said. “It’s worth making the trip.”
Born in Canada with parents in the U.S. Embessy, Flora has travelled to many places before settling in Illinois. He said these events are all very similar so depending on what his role is it is not complicated to practice for. He plays the role of a corporal in some groups and when working alongside Hewson he is a lower ranking captain.
Flora said that joining a reenactment group is a fun thing for people of all ages to do and recommends people to join.
Other historical events taking place will be the War of 1812 College on the weekend of April 30 and a reenactment in Oswego on the weekend of May 8, both sponsored by the Battle of Plattsburgh Association.

Shedding winter pounds this spring

2010-04-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

By Bryan Foti
Springtime in the North Country is the best time of the year because it is not cold anymore! When spring time hits you can find people out and about in the community. Some people are out to enjoy the company of others. Some, however, feel it is a time to start getting in shape so they can look and feel good about themselves.
Patti Warner who is a trainer at the Plattsburgh YMCA says that after the New Year and when spring begins is when you see the most people coming to the gym trying to get back into shape.
“It is a great thing that people are coming in and trying to get in good shape.” Warner says.
However when people first start they may work out too hard.
“People get out and the first thing they see is people running. So they think they should start running, however they don’t realize that the runners have been running all year long. So when they go for a run they over exert themselves.” Warner says.
She suggests that people trying to get back into shape should start slow and easy. They should start at a comfortable intensity level that they can complete. She then suggests that people should set goals by asking the question “what do I want to achieve?” Weather its being able to walk and breathe easy on vacation or getting a six pack in the abdomen region.
Warner says “Goals are great because it shows that you are dedicated and willing to take the steps necessary to achieve what you want.”
Matthew Salvatore is the head of the Plattsburgh State Fitness Center has more to add on goals.
He says, “Written work out plans are a great way for people to start. You make a personal contract with yourself and the plan is visible so you can keep track of the progress you are making and benchmarking where you are.”
Salvatore also agrees with Waner about people starting out too quickly. He thinks people should start out moderately and go up in increments that make it progressive for the person doing the exercise.
He says “The initial conditioning phase is very important for people starting out. If they go too quickly they will have set backs like injuries or just getting frustrated thinking they can’t do it.”
Salvatore feels the right way for people to do this is to warm up properly, stretch. If people want to lift weights, he suggests to start out at a weight that they can repeat several times that will not make the person too sore. Jogging or walking short distances is another good way to start. He thinks that rest periods are very important in the beginning because the body is not used to going through all the rigorous activity that people are putting it through.
Some people think that working out can be very time consuming and that the only way to get into tip top shape is to be in the gym for three or four hours a day.
That is not true Salvatore says “you can get done two exercises of aerobic activity, weight lifting which fulfills your anaerobic activity, a stretch and a cool down period in 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes.”
Injuries and setbacks can be a big concern to people when they first start trying to get back into shape. So how can you prevent injuries?
Jason Patcher is the head athletic trainer for Plattsburgh State. There are numerous ways to prevent injuries.
“To avoid injury warm up properly, get a good stretch, don’t over train, and hydrate really well. Water is the best. Make sure you cool down and make sure your posture is very good because if it is not it can lead to unnecessary injuries like tendinitis.”
Patcher agrees with the trainers that people starting to get back into shape sometimes overdo it and this can lead to muscle pulls or injuries that could have easily been prevented.
“The best way for them to start off is to write down goals and come up with a plan with a trainer that helps them achieve them” Patcher says.
People who smoke that want to get back into shape are in already in a tough spot.
Patcher says “smoking gives poor benefits it clogs arteries, you lose breathe quicker which makes you have to rest to regain your breathe therefore you are resting to breathe. Also smoking can hinder your nutritional intake.”
Exercise and fitness is a great way to start getting back in shape but what most people don’t realize is that there is another step involved in getting into a healthy body. That step is nutrition and eating right.
Jenna Jones a nutritionist for Cornell Cooperative Extension thinks that nutrition goes hand and hand with exercise. She notices the same problem that people have with eating as they do when they first start to exercise.
“People tend to go out and make drastic changes in their eating habits; I am a firm believer in making one small change at a time” Jones says.
She gives an example if a person normally drinks two sodas during the day. They should cut down to one when they first start trying to have correct nutrition. Jones says that most people need to consume more fruits and vegetables in their diet; the main reason is that fruits and vegetables contain fiber.
“Fiber makes the person feel fuller and will help lower cholesterol and it will regulate your bowel movements.”
Jones suggests that people visit the website mypyramid.gov because it gives good nutritional tips on what to eat depending on your age. She thinks it also has some good menu choices on it.
People who have diabetes can back into shape too. Jones thinks that there is not much of a difference between a diabetic person and a regular person trying to eat correctly.
“Personally I feel if everyone followed a diabetic diet everyone would be in better shape because you have to consume less sugar and have smaller portions.” She then goes on to say “diabetics think they can’t have sugars; they can but they can’t have a ton of them.”
Jones has an opinion dietary supplements that can help lower your cholesterol.
“I’m not against them, but you can’t just take a pill and think you will be ok. You have to be active as well. People are naïve when it comes to medicine. If you take a pill and continue to practice a poor lifestyle, you will see no results. It is like a team effort you have to do it together.”
Susannah LeVon is a nutrition expert at Plattsburgh State and before that worked many years at CVPH Medical Center in Plattsburgh. LeVon agrees with what Jones says.
“Proper nutrition is very important no matter how old you are” LeVon says. She then goes on to say “people are missing fruits and vegetables from their diet and they should consume at least five to nine servings a day.”
Whole grains are important for proper nutrition LeVon says. Examples of whole grains are wheat, oats, brown rice, barley and popcorn.
“I have a saying; make half your grains whole. People should look for them on the labels of boxes; for example, not all wheat bread is made from whole wheat.
LaVon thinks people starting out should focus on what they should be eating more of rather then what they should be cutting back on. She feels that people should hydrate properly with water and try to stay away from sugary drinks. Finally feels that people starting out should go slow and take it one step at a time because it is a step by step process.
Warner says “fitness and nutrition go hand and hand. You have to do both in order to achieve that goal that you want.”

Meeting allows march in streets of Plattsburgh

2010-04-20T10:05:00.001-07:00

By Caitlin Fitzpatrick
At a Plattsburgh Common Council meeting this past Thursday, April 15, a “Take Back the Night” event, taking place on April 30, was discussed and voted on.
The event, hosted by SUNY Plattsburgh’s Center for Women’s Concerns, is a march on the streets of Plattsburgh to inform the community about sexual assault and violence.
Meghan Trim, representing the Center for Women’s Concerns, addressed the council to tell it about the march and the importance of having the event.
“Take Back the Night” lasts an entire week and encompasses several different events, including speakers and entertainment, that builds up to the march on Friday.
The march begins at 6 p.m. in the Warren Ballrooms at the Angell College Center on the campus, and lasts until 9:30 p.m.
The event taking place at night is symbolic because the night is usually seen as dangerous to women, Trim said.
“It’s a good way to gather people and show support to those who are victims,” Trim said.
She also said that she hopes the march will spark conversation and inform people about sexual assault.
The more people who get involved in the community the more it will help the problem go away, she added.
Colleen Chera, a college student at SUNY Plattsburgh, plans on attending several of the events during the week of “Take Back the Night.”
She said she is excited about going to some of the events because it’s an important topic that needs to be spoken about.
“The march is good way for those in the community to get involved and spread the word that domestic violence and sexual assault are problems that need to go away,” she said.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime and one in six women have experienced an attempted or completed rape.
As the Common Council voted on the matter, Councilor Jackson noted that he had asked the city police department if they were fine with event taking place on the streets of Plattsburgh and they had responded that they approved of the event.
Councilor Rabideau also asked Trim if the event was open to the public and she responded that it was open to everyone in the community to attend.
The Common Council voted and approved the event with every member of the council voting in the affirmative.
Along with the march, some other events taking place during the week of “Take Back the Night” include a forum on violence in other cultures and a discussion panel on domestic violence.
Trim said she hopes that all the events will help work towards ending the silence of sexual assault and violence and that the march is a “10 on the importance scale.”
“It is one of the most important events we do year round,” Trim said.

Council says yes to 'Take Back Night' march

2010-04-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

By Amanda DeLosh
In Plattsburgh Thursday evening, the city hall opened its doors to the public for its weekly common council meeting. It was short and to the point with the exception of just one peer address to the council. It seemed to touch the heart of council member Amy Valentine.
SUNY Plattsburgh student Meghan Trim took to the podium in a very silent room. She asked the present member of the council to take in to consideration the walk against violence with the event, “Taking Back the Night.” She asked permission for community member to walk in the streets to fight against victims of violence.
Council members took a few seconds to process their own thoughts and then the roll was called.
The meeting continued with problems and city events being discussed, such as property taxes, where council member Jim Canlon said, “We prefer not to take someone’s property from them.” He went on to say he wants the issue resolved. Other issues discussed where seemingly not as important as the Take Back the Night march.
The room was quiet as the Common Council members took roll call in accordance to the request of the march. As each name passed a yes or no was given. One could see Trim as she sat straight up leg bouncing up and down as the nerves took it place. After roll was complete with a unanimous yes, Trim let out a small squeal of excitement followed by a, “Yes!” The council members all began to laugh and the public soon followed.
The irony of having such a serious subject with Take Back the Night was soon filled with more excitement, sort of giving a peaceful overlay to an event that will bring the community together for just one night.
The meeting continued and issues were resolved from the previous Thursday’s meeting. New business was discussed and other business included events such as the first half marathon in Plattsburgh this past weekend, where council member Chris Jackson said, “A lot of people are excited about it.”
After the new and old business discussion concluded, council member Valentine brought up the Take Back the Night event. “I think it’s a great thing you guys are doing,” she said.

Getting the most out of students, teachers

2010-04-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

By Max Rouzier

Children of today are being exposed to the world at earlier ages and growing up fast. Meanwhile adults want to be, look and act younger. If this trend continues children may pass their parents in mental age.

All this could become a probable future as school districts nationwide burden elementary students with more homework at younger ages.

Kindergartners are the new victims of homework that most students dread at any age. Here in the Plattsburgh City School District young developing minds are able to grow and act their age with little fear of homework.

“Children learn best through play,” says Kristine Lutters, Momot Elementary Child Advocate.

For nearly 25 years, Lutters has pushed for effective school curricula in the Plattsburgh City School District that are influential to the whole development of students at any age.

“Play is important for healthy social skills, self-awareness, cognitive development and how well kids retain what they learn,” Lutters says.

The Plattsburgh City School District wants to reach the federal mandates of the former Bush Administration’s No Child Left Behind (NCLB) act, and newer initiatives of the Obama Administration’s Race to the Top program. Toward that goal, the school district is allowed to implement its own protocols to fulfill federally established assessment standards.

Lutters researches and practices methods of engaging students through play instead of lecture-based curricula, which many school districts are adopting nationwide.

Her system of curriculum development goes against other districts that feel they have to teach through lectures and give homework regularly for students to be prepared for state assessments.

“I advocate for broad-based, contextualized teaching for students,” Lutters says.

Her system is micromanaged and begins with shared experiences among a diverse group of students who see the world in different ways because of their socioeconomic status.

She tours a pre-kindergarten class, funded by the state, at Momot Elementary, the children sit around their teacher as she reads about dinosaurs. These students are learning about archaeology and paleontology and their classroom setting immerses them in the experience. They have several learning stations-- one is a sand box filled with “archaeological digs” (toy dinosaurs, bones and artifacts) and another is a campsite with a fort complete with canopy, dining utensils, notebooks and everything necessary to be comfortable as they discover a foreign prehistoric world. Lutters calls this, “building an authentic context through play,” where children learn together and at the same pace.

NCLB and Race to the Top place pressures on administrators and teachers to reach standards and maintain them at the risk of losing federal funding. That pressure becomes more testing and lecturing in schools even at the elementary level. That pressure trickles down to children and parents who are now dealing with homework, sleepless nights and family conflict because of it.

Sara Bennett, an education reform activist and concerned parent living in Brooklyn, N.Y., that began her steps toward improving the American education system with her own children. Her first son was in first grade when he started coming home regularly with a significant amount of homework. She immediately discussed the issue with the teacher and resolved the matter. The teacher gave less assignments, but Bennett had similar conversation again with other teachers in consecutive years.

“Most of the time teachers wouldn’t know parents cared about homework or how long it took, and when I told them, then they reduce the homework,” Bennett says. “A lot of times, they [teachers] forget or do not know what it’s like to deal with a child coming home with homework, especially when these teachers are younger and don’t have their own children.”

Events like these motivated Bennett to learn more about the current state of homework in America. She researched the topic further and eventually wrote, The Case Against Homework: How homework Is Hurting Our Children and What we Can Do About It. Her conclusion is most homework is “busy-work” that does not engage students of any age to think critically about an idea or the world.

At Keeseville Elementary students are tested every 10 days, and some students are tested weekly. This is part of the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills assessment, playfully titled, Dibles, which measures the literacy skills of students.

Heather Brault teaches at Keeseville elementary. She used to be a full-time teacher and has since become an academic intervention services (AIS) math teacher. Brault works with students individually to better handle their academic needs.

Stephanie Petro, a teacher at Peru Intermediate School, says, “Our goal as teachers is to challenge students at their particular rate of learning.”

“Basically, state assessments identify students I need to work with,” Brault says. “I try to reinforce concepts through games and activities, but sometimes there are time constraints.”

Educators cite standard assessment as a problem for children students nationwide, not because it creates pressure for them to learn material, rather assessments tend to be limited in their measurements.

I am not opposed to standardized assessment, but I think for the millions of students they give them too, it is a narrow way to assess critical thinking and enthusiasm for learning,” Lutters says. “To only have a skill-based assessment is too narrow.”

Bennett says, “Every kid is creative, interesting and loves to learn. And homework ruins that.”

For Margaret Felty, Momot Elementary speech therapist, homework is not on the agenda either.

“My teaching style is well-backed through research,” Felty says. “I teach through unstructured lessons, creative art projects, I read to them and we have discussions together for listening.”

Petro, has a son in kindergarten at Peru Intermediate School, appreciates this learning style and technique.

“My child recently learned about Antarctica, and had an exercise to plan an imaginary trip to Antarctica by packing a suitcase with things necessary for a trip like that,” says Petro. “I think he learned a lot and retained more because it was more fun.”

Some teachers send homework home to ensure parents spend time with their children and be aware of the current lessons taking place in the classroom.
Lori Walters-Kramers, a parent, says, “Every so often he [her son in kindergarten] brings home assignments from a workbook or a vocabulary list. She [the teacher] doesn’t ask for proof of completion, but she makes it clear that she encourages shared time for the parent(s) and child.”

Eating out doesn’t have to mean letting out pants

2010-04-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

By Ashleigh Livingston
If you’ve ever tried to diet, you likely know something about passing – passing on dessert, passing on a mid-day snack and maybe even passing on a meal at your favorite restaurant. After all, it’s easy when you’re counting calories to develop a fear of any food that you did not prepare yourself. It may seem safer to stay home and ingest only items with suitable nutrition facts printed on their packaging. The recent health care legislation has made it easier to make informed meal choices at fast food restaurants by demanding that many chains post calorie counts next to each item on their menu; however, restaurants with less than 20 outlets are exempt from this law. Still, it’s possible to enjoy a meal at a locally owned restaurant while still sticking with your diet, especially if you keep a few things in mind.
Firstly, control your condiments. Add-ons such as mayonnaise, butter, sour cream and salad dressing harbor a lot of calories from fat, says Jourunn Gran-Henriksen, certified dietician-nutritionist and assistant professor of nursing and nutrition at Plattsburgh State University.
“It doesn’t take very many bites [of these items] before you’ve eaten a lot of calories,” she says.
The good news is that just because you’re dieting doesn’t mean you are obligated to pass on these condiments all together, leaving your food dry and bland. Instead, Gran-Henriksen recommends asking for them on the side. That way you can put them on yourself and be in control of how much you are using.
Secondly, be familiar with menu terminology. Anything fried adds calories, Gran-Henriksen says, but there are different ways to fry foods, and some are worse than others. For example, Gran-Henriksen explains that sautéed is usually a better choice than pan fried, but pan fried is still better than deep-fried. If you’re looking to cut the most calories from your meal, however, Gran-Henriksen recommends sticking with foods that are baked or roasted because these cooking methods do not require oil, which is high in fat and calories.
Thirdly, just because it’s there, doesn’t mean you have to eat it. Gran-Henriksen explains that portions at restaurants are often much larger than the portions you would normally eat at home, so consuming everything on your plate may mean over eating.
“Make the decision, ‘I’m not going to have anymore,’ and then put your utensils down,” she says. “You can always bring home a doggie bag, [but] if you eat too much, you can’t bring anything home.”
If you know you will have trouble mustering up the will power to stop eating before your plate is empty, Gran-Henriksen recommends ordering an appetizer in place of an entrée since appetizers are generally smaller portions.
Lastly, ask questions. Gran-Henriksen points out that your waiter or waitress can be a good resource for finding out how food is prepared and may be able to guide you in making a healthy meal choice.
While these tips present a general guide to eating healthy while eating out, different restaurants present different menu options, and it may not always be clear which options are best for your waistline. Ethnic foods, for example, use a wide variety of ingredients that may taste good but may also leave you wondering what exactly it is you ate.
The good news is that you don’t have to pass on all of Plattsburgh’s ethnic restaurants just because you’re dieting. Once again, you just have to keep a few things in mind.
If you’re craving Italian food, you may end up at Arnie’s Restaurant on Margaret Street, where believe it or not, there are plenty of options for the calorie conscious.
One of the restaurant’s owners, Glenn Pavone, explains that the chicken cacciatore is a healthy Italian inspired dish because it is made with boneless, skinless chicken breast and the restaurant’s homemade marinara sauce, which contains no saturated fat.
The restaurant also has a great option for controlling portion size, according to Pavone. “We offer half portions of spaghetti for people that don’t want to overdo it on pasta,” he says.
When it comes to choosing a sauce for your pasta, Gran-Henriksen recommends sticking with tomato based sauces such as marinara, plain sauce or meat sauce. She says to avoid anything with cream or butter, such as alfredo sauce, as these will be higher in calories.
Though Gran-Henriksen says that pizza is tough to make healthy due to the cheese, she recommends cutting calories by requesting less cheese on your pizza, which Arnie Pavone, co-owner of Arnie’s Restaurant, says he welcomes guests to do. Arnie adds that the restaurant uses half-skim mozzarella on all of its pizzas, eliminating extra fat and calories.
Like pizza, Mexican food is also hard to make healthy because of the cheese that is generally added to most dishes, but there are still some options for dieters, according to Glenn LaBarre, manager of The Smoked Pepper on Bridge Street.
For one, Labarre says that guests may opt for balsamic portabella mushrooms in their burritos or salads, rather than meat; though, The Smoked Pepper does use boneless, skinless chicken breast, which Gran-Henriksen says is not a bad choice. Shrimp is also a healthy choice for a burrito or salad filler; however, Gran-Henriksen warns to stay away from beef and pork.
While sour cream and guacamole are some of those calorie packed condiments that are best used sparingly or not at all, Labarre says that the Smoked Pepper’s guajillo sauce, which is made of tomatoes and peppers, is great for adding a, “load of flavor” to dishes without adding a load of calories.
Once again, guests are welcomed to request less cheese on any of the dishes, and LaBarre says that baked chicken can be substituted for sautéed or pan-fried chicken on salads.
For dieters craving a taste of India, Karma Indian Cuisine on Cornelia Street can accommodate.
“Nobody could be more calorie analytical than I am right now, but believe it or not, I eat at my restaurant three times a day,” says Karma’s manager, Barinder Kaur, who is watching her calorie intake in preparation for her wedding in three months.
One of Kaur’s favorite dishes is the restaurant’s chicken curry, which she says can also be made with vegetables or lamb. She explains that the sauce is made of onions and spices, and has no dairy in it.
“It’s absolutely delicious because what happens is spices add on a flavor… India has over 200 spices, [and they] don’t have many calories what so ever; it’s just flavor,” she says.
Indian cuisine also has an abundance of breads associated with it, and Kaur recommends tandoori roti because it is made with whole wheat.
While the Atkins diet craze may have scared you away from carbs, Gran-Henriksen says there are actually some good nutrients in bread, and as long as you don’t overdo it, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a little bread with your meal.
In fact, it seems moderation is a key to maintaining a healthy diet. While it’s important to be careful about the foods you put in your mouth, you also don’t want to take all the fun out of eating.
“If you go out to eat a lot, I think you have to be much more careful,” Gran-Henriksen says. “ If you go out, and it’s just a once in a while thing, and you’re treating yourself, enjoy it.”

Exercise methods help families get fit together

2010-04-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Sivan Kaufman
With distractions like high definition 3D movies, mounds of work piling up on the desk, and that ever-growing, ever-neglected to-do list to try and tackle, many people today simply cannot imagine time to set aside for exercise and do not have money to afford a gym in the current economy. But that is OK, according to Plattsburgh State Director of Health Education Services Jerimy Blowers.
In order teach families how to become healthy together, small steps that can be accomplished in everyday tasks must first be made Blowers said.
“Parents lead by example,” he said. Without the guidance of parents, a long-term “lifestyle change” cannot be made within a family.
While Blowers recommends walking children to parks instead of driving them, kicking a soccer ball around, and interacting with them, some people do not have time to pause and do this.
There is more than one approach to getting fit and simply adding in an activity that a person enjoys is a step toward keeping the body in shape, he said, even if getting healthy is through a non traditional means—video games.
“A lot of kids at a young age are not very health oriented,” Marcus Hanson, a Plattsburgh GameStop employee, said. He regularly sees parents coming into the video game store to purchase health geared video games from Nintendo, such as Wii Fit he said. The company also produces a line of sports video games, weight loss and cooking coach video games, and began integrating walking through its hit line of Pokemon video games on the DS handheld system, through a pedometer accessory called the Pokewalker that allows a play to carry a Pokemon character with them on walks.
“[The Pokewalker] encourages people to move,” Hanson said, noting that the pedometer gives a point system known as watts to players for getting special characters and items in the game. 20 steps equal one watt, which is the same amount of steps required to burn a single calorie.
Blowers said that walking is often overlooked as a form of exercise and can be one of the most helpful and easiest to apply in everyday life, even if it means parking a little “farther from Wal-mart than what you normally would.”
Emily Richard recently bought the Pokemon games that feature the Pokewalker and thinks it is good for children to be encouraged to exercise in such a way. Other games, such as Wii Fit, she said seems to be aimed at older people who are better at video games than outdoor exercise.
“I don’t want to call my mom lazy, but [she doesn’t go outside] and she plays Dance Dance Revolution and everything,” Richards said.
Within Clinton County, steps have been made to help the community have more access to healthy activities that can bring families together.
The Eat Well Play Hard offered by the Clinton County Health Department award grants to seven different agencies, totaling $15,500. The awards were given to Peru Intermediate School, Beekmantown School District, and the City of Plattsburgh among other areas. The funding focuses on enhancing nutrition or physical activity within the community, a press release this past March stated. The funding will go toward things such as adding a vegetarian diet in cafeterias and expanding the Disc Golf course in Cadyville to a full 18-hole course.
Regular outdoor exercise is important to students such as Devin Brassard and Sean Bigdeli in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Bigdeli said that exercise should be part of a lifestyle, agreeing with Blowers’ statement, and that a mix of activities is best. Adding things like video games can be good, he said, but also dangerous because video games are “based more on assumption than on reality” and that may not have a good outcome on mental health.
“I’ve played [Wii Fit] but I wouldn’t call it enjoyable,” Brassard said, “it’s a whole lot of weird little mini games. As a gamer, a game of mini games isn’t much of a game. I know it’s healthy but you have to make sure you enjoy something if you want to keep doing it.”
If he ever has children he said he would stick to a more traditional means of getting them exercise and having them play outside.
“I would be like my mom and tell my kids to go play out in traffic,” Brassard said. “You’d stay in shape trying not to get killed.”

Will 2010 be the Hornets' year?

2010-04-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

By Bryan Foti
While the Plattsburgh City School District Administrative staff and the Board of Education are creating a budget that will likely see teacher cuts, tax raises and possible sports cuts, the Plattsburgh High School Baseball team is on the field preparing for their upcoming season.
The Plattsburg Hornets return seven players from a team last year that made it to the Section VII Class B Championship game before losing to Beekmantown 5 to 3. The team will be anchored around senior player Joe Kirkpatrick. In his junior season, Kirkpatrick had a great year posting a .380 batting average. His 23 RBI’s (Runs Batted In) lead the Hornet team. Pitching is strength for Kirkpatrick as well, last year he started 5 games for the Hornets and won all of them. He had a team leading 1.44 ERA (Earned Run Average). He had 33 strike outs as well.
Plattsburgh Head Coach Jim Manchester has high expectations for Kirkpatrick. “He is going to be an asset at the plate for us this year.” Manchester will have a number of solid players to choose from. Brendan Cortright will provide good pitching experience according to Manchester. Last year Cortright made four appearances as a pitcher. He posted a 1.66 ERA and had a 2-0 record.
Kevin Neiderer will do the catching duties for Plattsburgh this year. In 2009, Neiderer had a good year offensively batting .300. Manchester also said Neiderer will play the outfield along with John Zayas. Brett Gilman will play short-stop and hold down the middle of the infield.
With all of this talent the Hornets have high hopes going into the 2010 season. “We have kind of been the glass slipper of the league the past two seasons coming in 2nd place. This year we have a goal to win our league and represent Section VII in the States,” says Manchester.
The old cliché in baseball is that pitching and defense win games. The Hornets know this and they are practicing defense a lot. On the field the Hornets were doing a drill on rundowns and how to get an out. The team seemed to be executing the drill well but sometimes there were mistakes. “There is always going to be teaching involved, they are kids. We can live with physical mistakes but the mental ones are the ones we have to cut back on.”
Plattsburgh should be able to get off to a quick start in the season because they will have already had some game experience when they open play on April 19 and play Peru High School. On April 12 through April 16 the Hornets will be down in Mingo Bay, SC to play in a baseball tournament. Plattsburgh will be playing three games in a Round Robin Tournament. There is a lot that went into making it possible for the baseball team to go down to South Carolina. Plattsburgh Athletic Director Clifford "Joe" Staves says, “Coach Manchester made a proposal to the Athletic Office and the Superintendent with very specific conditions outlining the fact that the trip would be at no cost to the School District/Taxpayers. This proposal was presented for Board of Education for approval, and has been done so each year.” Manchester’s plan included a lot of fund raising. The Hornets did a bottle drive that raised 303 dollars. They also raised another 500 dollars from McSweeney's fundraiser and another 200 dollars was donated from Nuway/Plattsburgh City Taxi. They have a total balance of 906 dollars to spend on food. The trip did not get many complaints from parents or form the community even though the district is struggling financially. The players are very excited for the upcoming season. In practice they seemed much focused on their goal at task. Mitch Kilkeary who is a junior on the team is very excited about the opportunity to travel down to South Carolina. “It is going to be a real good time and should give us a lot of momentum heading into the season.” Team Chemistry should be able to help the Hornets this year. They return seven seniors and have a very talented junior class. Cortright says, “we have solid team chemistry, we are all friends, and have played together for a very long time. We are all little league compadres.” The players all have one thing on their mind this year and that is to win a championship and get to states. Joe Tolosky is a junior pitcher and outfielder he says, “We are expecting to win our division and we are going to try to make a splash at states if we get there.” The Hornets have a good shot to get back to a Section VII championship game. The Hornets are well coached and have a solid group of players on the team this year. Gilman says “I feel we have a good shot to make it far this year and we have a chance to do some special things this upcoming season.” The Hornets open the Section VII season against Peru and will start their journey that will hopefully lead them to a state playoff game.

Importance of religious acceptance

2010-04-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

By Caitlin Fitzpatrick
The passage of the hate-crime law in October of 2009, proved a victory for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered community. The law makes it a federal crime to assault an individual based on his or her sexual orientation or gender identity, according to CNN.
However, many continue to wonder if the law will really help end crime and discrimination against those who identify as LGBT.
Bishop John Selders, an ordained minister and bishop in the United Church of Christ and a member of the religion council of the Religion & Faith Program of the Human Rights Campaign, says he believes that the new hate-crime law will help to a degree on the federal level but he is not sure that it will work as a deterrent for those who commit the acts.
Discrimination against a gay teenager by his church in Connecticut last year has highlighted the fact that some LGBT youths are not accepted or provided help by their faith groups. The teen was put through a gay “exorcism” by his church elders, which was broadcast on YouTube.
According to ReligionLink.com, youths and young people are the most vulnerable in the LGBT community.
Marina Capote, a young adult in the LGBT community, thinks that the new hate-crime law is definitely a major step in the right direction because crimes against those who identify as LGBT are now recognized as actual crimes and are finally taken seriously.
However, Capote says that she has shut the door on religion because she feels as though she will not be accepted and she is more open-minded than most religions.
“God doesn’t judge,” adds Samantha Wood, also a young member of the LGBT community. Wood also adds the idea of how homosexuality was not recognized at the time when the Bible was written.
“If you have a true understanding of faith, you would know that it’s not wrong,” she says, referring to homosexuality.
Selders says in his experience he has found that most LGBT youths have not been comfortable going to their religious faith for help and guidance because many faith traditions have a history of violence when it comes to homosexuality.
Selders also says that when there has been work done by religious faiths to allow for the emergence of those in the LGBT community it has not been focused specifically on youths.
However, although religious communities have not been doing enough to help LGBT youths they are beginning to, Selders says.
He also says that some segments of religious communities are part of the effort when it comes to accepting the new hate-crime law.
Michael Correa, member of the Greek Ally Project at SUNY Plattsburgh and a former teacher’s assistant for the Center for Diversity, Pluralism and Inclusion at SUNY Plattsburgh, works to educate those on campus in Greek life about such diversity issues as homophobia.
The project provides an outlet for young adults in Greek life who may be confused about their own sexuality or for those who are LGBT in the Greek community who need a place to turn and express themselves.
“The Greek Ally Project’s main goal is to make sure that Greek organizations on campus are educated about diverse issues, including homophobia and homosexuality, so that everyone feels accepted,” Correa says.
Correa says that he believes that it is important for young members of the LGBT community to feel as though they can turn to anyone they trust, especially their religious community, when they need help.
Capote agrees, adding that those in the LGBT community who come from a religious background consider acceptance by their religious faiths important because they do not want to be rejected by those who they look up to and respect.
“Religion teaches acceptance, so it only makes sense that when a member of their faith comes to them for help or guidance they provide it no matter his or her sexual orientation,” Correa says.

Hunger, the almighty monster

2010-04-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Delosh
After a long day of work or school we come home and escape the world we love to hate; our jobs and homework. That couch, bag of chocolates with a complimentary side of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, looks really good when you’re favorite TV show is on.
Influences can come in many different forms. There may be peer influences, distractions from the environment you live in, or an everyday life issue. Hunger is one of the many aspects of our life that is influences from these certain pressures. What triggers hunger are things that we do on a daily basis according to some experts.
The question is, do people realize they tend to eat more when they are relaxing in front of the TV? “As soon as I sit down I feel like I should be doing something,” says Audrey Shippee, of Rochester, NY, a St. John Fisher College student.” She continues saying, “That something usually is eating.”
TV is not the only thing keeping us from the reality we indulge upon. Peer influences come in many different ways. Not only is it by peer pressure, but by what we eat. When a group of friends go out to eat dinner, do friends tend choosing to eat the same? According to the article called hunger triggers, in Allure magazine this is true. The sharing behavior is what this is called. People eat and do what their friends are doing.
According to this article a study found friends who go in bigger groups would get more food. Many people do not realize they do this. This is where the problem lies, without the knowledge. “My friends tend to order what other people order and not what they want because of what other people will think,” says Shippee. “Like if one orders a ‘huge juicy burger,’ and everyone else is ordering salads.”
As with peer influence for both men and women a like, another one for women is dating. Does a girl ever notice the type of good one eats when on a date with a potentially new prospect? Probably not, the nerves will take over and a women’s need to impress, so eating a less amount, will occur. Unlike Shippee she mentions, “I never really had that problem with my boyfriend when we started dating.” Shippee just happens to be one of the lucky ones who can overcome this “fear,” when they begin dating. “If anything he makes me eat more,” she says with a laugh.
Giving into a fear is much like giving into a temptation. We are always tempted to eat that one little chocolate morsel that would melt in your mouth. People think this is bad when dieting, correct? According to the article this is wrong. Satisfying a craving in a healthy way is a positive thing.
Whether there are social, or physical distractions going on, hunger will somehow sneak its way into your life. “It depends on what I’m distracted by,” says Shippee. “If it’s a relationship issue I don’t want to eat anything, or anything that makes me nervous or worried.” She continues saying, “But when I’m doing homework I always want to eat.” Why she says is because she’s bored.
Other social distractions could include people talking about food, or saying they are hungry. A person could have just eaten something and are completely full, but that instant conversation of something delicious will make someone want to eat more. “I want to eat food all the time,” says Shippee. “If you’re talking about food that just makes me want to eat more of it.” Distractions, instincts, peers, and other influences will be consistent hunger triggers. The hunger monster will terrorize lives, but will also make people happy on the days when stress and relief need to become best friends.

Adirondack's haunted hotels?

2010-03-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

By Ashleigh Livingston
When it comes to lodging in the Adirondacks, travelers are given a number of options depending on the experience and level of accommodations they desire. There is everything from roadside motels and quaint bed and breakfasts to rustic lodges and lavish resorts. Depending on which destination is chosen, guests may expect no more than a bed, a shower, and a colored TV; or no less than a valet, a room with a view, and a complimentary bottle of champagne. There are some hotels in the Adirondacks, however, that have been known to provide guests with something they may not have expected—a run in with a ghost.
One such hotel is the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing, N.Y. Originally opened in 1883 and reconstructed in 1930 due to fire damage, the Sagamore rests on Green Island, surrounded by Lake George. The resort’s promotional Web site boasts the Sagamore’s, “luxury accommodations, extraordinary dining [and] superb fitness and spa facilities.”
But what the Web site does not boast is the resort’s reputation for being haunted.
“The hotel is built on a cemetery from the Indians,” says Hans Visscher, who worked at the resort in the past. “There’re [supposedly] a lot of ghosts around there.”
Visscher, who worked as a captain in the resort’s Trillium Dining Room, which has since been converted into guest rooms, says that guests and employees of the Sagamore repeatedly reported having had a paranormal experience or having seen a ghost in the hotel.
Both Visscher and Kevin Rosa, director of sales and marketing at the hotel, agree that two common thread ghost stories surround the hotel, although their accounts of these stories vary slightly.
According to Visscher, one story involves the ghost of a middle-aged woman wearing a blue polka-dot dress, who has been spotted running around in the hotel’s hallways.
“The people that have seen her say the same thing, so it should be true because they’ve never talked to each other,” says Visscher.
The second common story involves the ghosts of two children who have been heard giggling in the hallways, according to Rosa, though Visscher says it is the ghost of one female child in a white gown that has been seen.
Both men say that they don’t believe the sightings have left guest frightened enough not to return to the hotel; however, Visscher says that one of the hotel’s guest rooms was off limits to visitors when he worked there.
“There is one room that was never rented out, and I forgot the number,” says Visscher, “but [they never used it] because there were always noises. People heard noises at night.”
Though Rosa says that the ghost sightings at the hotel are, “not a spooky thing,” but rather just something that happens, The Sagamore chooses not to advertise its reputation for being haunted.
“[The reputation] doesn’t lose us business, but it doesn’t gain us business,” says Rosa.
Still, some hotels in the Adirondacks have made a point to highlight their supposed live-in ghosts, perhaps in hopes that those intrigued by the paranormal might be more likely to visit.
The BrightSide, for example, a small, rustic inn on Raquette Lake, is very open about its reputation for being haunted.
In fact, the BrightSide’s promotional Web site, www.brightsideonraquette.com, provides visitors with a disclaimer of sorts, which states:
“As with any old, historic building, one of the many aspects of history that always seems intriguing to people is the tales and stories of ghosts. The BrightSide in its many years of serving as a hotel has acquired quite a few over the years and also within the past couple. There have been quite a few instances where our guests, even today, insist that they saw, felt, witnessed, or simply knew that there was ‘something’ there.”
Becky Wood, training coordinator for Fiber Instrument Sales, a company that holds training classes at the BrightSide, corroborates the Web site’s statements, saying that she knows of many credible people who claim to have felt something or even had their bed shake inexplicably while at the hotel, and though she says she has never actually seen a ghost at the BrightSide, she believes they could be there.
“I have spent many nights up there, and I would say there’s something up there,” says Wood.
As for whether or not the hotel’s reputation attracts guests, Wood says, “I think they are intrigued when they come up,” though she adds that the ghost lore certainly isn’t the only reason guests visit the hotel.
Of course, there is much debate about whether ghosts exist at all, let alone whether they haunt the hallways and rooms of these hotels.
Both the Sagamore and the BrightSide have been approached by paranormal groups, hoping to stay at the hotels and investigate the possibility of ghostly presences, which is something both hotels are considering, according to Rosa and Wood respectively.

Plattsburgh Community Garden grows new life

2010-03-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

By Kevin Eloi
Doug Butdorf, 38, has been involved in gardening since he was a child. His passion for a healthy environment is unequivocal. As a board member of the Plattsburgh Green Committee, Mr. Butdorf understands the importance of a thriving atmosphere centered on pure, healthy, and natural ways of living. “It’s important for people to start practicing good habits, especially within their own communities. Also, I want to help raise awareness and educate people on how they can help clean up the environment. I’ve been involved in green initiatives such as the Plattsburgh Community Garden for a while and it’s quite fulfilling.”
To the delight of Green Committee board members such as Mr. Butdorf, the Common Council authorized the mayor of Plattsburgh, Donald Kasprzak, to sign a 2-year renewal agreement for the Plattsburgh Community Garden. The garden is located in Melissa Penfield Park and was founded in 2009. “The city formed the Green Committee which got the ball rolling on a community garden,” said Mayor Kasprzak. “People are pursuing more green initiatives and projects like the Plattsburgh Community Garden are a consequence of hardworking people who are pushing to make a difference in their community.”
As the website, www.plattsburghcommunitygarden.org, states, The Plattsburgh Community Garden Group exists to create an allotment style community garden/s that build community, provide an enjoyable and safe place to grow crops, gather as friends, and learn the techniques of successful gardening. As a member of the Common Council that approved the community garden’s 2-year extension, Councilman Michael Kelly is a staunch advocate for all the green initiatives in Plattsburgh and provides a needed voice for the community. Councilman Kelly explained the importance of The Plattsburgh Community Garden. “The community garden helps increase the awareness of living in a healthy environment. Everyone has the opportunity to have a plot of their own. Last year, we started out with 32 plots and now it’s increased to 45. As soon as the paperwork is done, this proposal will take effect immediately.” Doug Butdorf, who is also the garden’s organizer and chief, reiterated the same notion. “Not everyone has a backyard to grow their plants or crops,” he said. “Everyone in the community now has an opportunity to have their own personal garden and at the same time practice healthy eating habits while keeping the environment clean. People have to understand that something as simple as growing your own garden could actually reduce the amount pollutants that damage the air. For instance, the community garden allows you to grow your own fruits and vegetables which mean less petroleum trucks to travel across the country polluting the air while delivering apples or oranges.” Although the garden provides a sense of leisure, that is only a microcosm of the bigger picture. The Plattsburgh Community Garden’s true objective isn’t just to give someone a hobby, but rather to promote a nutritious diet while simultaneously endorsing a green-friendly atmosphere.
The community garden stems from the Plattsburgh Green Committee. As Mayor Kasprzak stated before, the Green Committee initiated all ecofriendly endeavors. The committee’s agenda concentrated on environmental sustainability. Although the Plattsburgh Community Garden is an independent group, the Plattsburgh Green Committee acts as its consultant. “Each organization has its own specific mission,” said Marcia Wolosz, Vice-chairman of the Green Committee. “We have a much broader goal and we focus on different aspects of the community. Our job is to inform the elected officials on the sustainability of the city. Also, we’ve started a program called ‘Green Scarring’ where we evaluate the businesses of Plattsburgh based on how green they are and we encourage businesses to adopt more environment-friendly principles if they have yet to do so.”
A Brooklyn native, Marcia Wolosz is a passionate devotee of all green initiatives. She has been living in Plattsburgh for 26 years and deeply feels the pulse of the city. “I have a day-to-day consciousness about how we impact the environment,” she said. “I always want to educate myself as much as I can on environmental issues, whether through research or other people. With the election of President Obama, the political landscape on climate issues has changed for the better. Groups like our green committee now have leeway to push forward on all sorts of climate-based projects like the community garden. Our group is an evolving group and we desperately want to get the word out.” Aside from the Plattsburgh Community Garden, the Green Committee has been involved in other projects. “We’ve participated in the Earth Day celebration this past year and have worked with groups such as Casella,” said Sarah Cronk, Secretary of the Plattsburgh Green Committee. “We’ve also started a green survey to get a scope on what the community has been doing as far as environmental matters.” The Plattsburgh Community Garden group also held their annual Local Food and Spring Gardening Kick-off on March 20, 2010. The website has more detailed information on the event.
The Garden is fairly young, but it has steadfast become apart of the community’s consciousness. It continues to grow and expand with the help of the people of Plattsburgh. It acts as a beacon to other communities hoping to establish their own organizations and groups to create projects such as the Plattsburgh Community Garden. Groups like the Plattsburgh Green Committee understand their role in regards to the community. "The Plattsburgh Green Committee consists of community members who share the common interest in developing Plattsburgh and its surrounding areas into a more localized, sustainable, and environmentally just region."

Unique programs salvaged while others downsize in school board meeting

2010-03-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Sivan Kaufman
As the Plattsburgh City School Board sat in Duken Elementary at their March 11 meeting listening to several smiling kids talk about their beloved after school program Biz Kids, they were reminded only of the hot topic to follow—budget and finance.
The 7:30 p.m. meeting started with an introduction by three students to the program based on a popular PBS education series that teaches how to balance and make money.
After the presentation the school board started facing ideas on how to handle their budget gap of $2.8 million, deciding that a strong possibility of both program cuts and tax increase.
”If we have activities that they can find someplace else then we should probably be dropping those,” School Board President Clayton Morris said. “I think from here on in we are really going to struggle to do everything for everyone.”
Superintendent James Short reported that with the recent “favorable” movement of 15 teachers resigning one third of the district’s budget gap has decreased, leaving approximately $1.9 million to solve.
The school board agreed not to cut any programs from the district that are unique to the community such as the Odyssey program and Biz Kids, but other areas such as summer school might have to take a hiatus in order to save money.
No single area such as music or sports will be cut completely, but may have to be downsized according to Morris.
The largest issue the board had with cutting sports was the fear of causing “socio-economic issues” within the community if a sport gets cut, separating kids whose families who have money from being able to play from kids whose families cannot afford a private sport.
The district has the largest sports program that attracts the most kids in a “very vulnerable time in their life,” according to the school board, and cutting the proposed 25 percent from the sports budget would be “earth shattering” for the students.
A possible slight tax increase was discussed, with concern to the local economy and job market. The board agreed that no more than a 2% increase would take place.

City school district left searching for answers

2010-03-26T13:41:00.001-07:00

By Bryan Foti
No one knew what to expect when they filed into the Duken Elementary School for the Plattsburgh City School District Board Meeting. The people soon found out. The plan was to begin to discuss the up-coming budget for the 2010-2011 school year.
The Plattsburgh School District, which was founded in 1811 and has over 1,800 students enrolled with 237 teachers employed. Superintendent James Short opened the meeting with a startling statement saying that New York State would cut state aid to the district. The State has taken away 1.2 million dollars in funding and this leaves the Plattsburgh City School District with about a 2.8 million dollar budget gap. The room irrupted with noise.
After people settled down Short offered a good start to counteract the deficit; he said that 15 teachers will retire at the end of this school year and it will save the school 843,000 dollars and this sum eliminates about one-third of the budget gap. Short then started asking the school board members what they thought was the best way to counteract the deficit. Many different opinions were voiced from raising taxes, cutting programs to possible layoffs.
School Board President Clayton Morris seemed to have his priorities in order because he came with a list that was designed with no teacher layoffs. Morris then expressed his desire to keep class size the same and to keep the current curriculum including engineering and calculus that other districts do not offer.
Assistant Superintendent for Business Jay Lebrun threw out an idea suggesting the district tap into their reserve funds. He suggested that no more than 600,000 dollars be taken out of the reserve. The board members decided that it was safe to take 400,000 dollars out of the fund and they will use that money towards this upcoming budget.
The meeting then moved toward the possibility of sports cuts. Board members then asked Plattsburgh Athletic Director Clifford “Joe” Staves what it would be like if they were to cut 25 percent of the sports department. Staves said that the school would probably lose 6 to 8 sports teams.
The meeting concluded with a lot of confusion and left the school board and the administrative staff with big decisions to make.
The big deficit has left many question marks for the board and the administrative staff to answer. The first question would be weather the community is willing to raise taxes. Short said “if you wanted to complete the budget with just tax raises you would have to increase by about 10.5 percent.” Clearly, that is not going to happen. Short then posed the question to the board “how much would they be willing to raise taxes?” Many board members did not think that raising taxes would be the best way to go. Morris said he would vote for a zero percent raise while others said they go to a one or two percent increase. Two was the highest.
Another question for the board is the possibility of layoffs of teachers. This has already started in the sports department when the school board voted that the school will not pay for assistant coaches and they instead will be volunteers this year. Teachers however are very valuable and according to Short, “we will likely be reducing to 224-229 due to budget effects.” Morris is not in favor of cutting teachers his reasoning is “every person you cut means less people coming into our community. It really puts a loss of young people coming in and working here.”
If the district does decide to layoff some teachers that may lead people to ask whether the size of the class will grow and what will happen to teachers on lower levels will they up to the middle school or high school? Will teachers be teaching more than one subject?
Another question is how the district is going to get the money to make up for the deficit. The retirement from the 15 teachers at the end of the year will help. Morris said at the end of the meeting he would try to personally thank those 15 teachers for helping the district in a time where they need all the help they can get. The reserve fund is another big way the school can get some money.
Lebrun thinks the reserve can help with the upcoming budget. “That is why they are there to be used for times like this.” Lebrun thinks the district can safely take out about 600,000 dollars without hurting the reserves. However the board felt it would be safer to take out 400,000 dollars instead. This still leaves the district searching for answers on how to erase the budget gap.
Patricia Bentley is a member on the school board and she says by far this has been the most difficult budget she has seen. “No question. The deficit is large by any standard and begs a huge array of questions about programs, staff and why we serve.” Short seems to agree with Bentley “I’ve been a Superintendent for over 11 years in two school districts – I would say this year is in the top two of most difficult budgets. This is the most difficult budget Plattsburgh has seen in a long time.”
Sacrifice seems to be the theme that the Plattsburgh district has take en route to creating this budget “we have to pick our spots” Morris says this about making cuts. Morris knows things are going to be cut he states “I take a different approach to it. My approach is how many students it will affect. If I have a two programs that cost the same but one has 20 students involved in it and the other has 100 students involved I would have to cut the program with 20 students because it is more cost effective.”
It seems that Short and Morris get along very well together which should make it easier for a budget to be created. Morris was asked what the hardest part about working with the administrative staff and the rest of his board he responded “there is no hard pat we all work very well together and have a good relationship.” This should be beneficial when Short and Morris finally come up with a proposed budget. It is a very tough time for the Plattsburgh District there will be a lot of tough decisions being made within the next few weeks but all and all the board and the administrative staff feel they will be able to get a budget created that will continue to bring good quality education to the students of the Plattsburgh Community. The next problem will be to get it approved.

Plattsburgh High School striving for fitness

2010-03-26T13:33:00.001-07:00

By Caitlin Fitzpatrick
Plattsburgh High School has been improving the general fitness of their students and staff ever since the physical education department opened its fitness center in 2008.
The center offers students and staff an outlet to develop their fitness goals, while also offering a comfortable and fun environment.
According to Plattsburgh City School District web site, students currently have several different options for exercise while at the center, including walking on the track. The school also offers exercise alternatives such as Dance Dance Revolution for students who do not favor traditional workouts, though individualized fitness programs are still the most popular form of using the center.
“Most of what we do is individualized. We design a program for them,” Lori Latremore, a certified teacher at the fitness center, says.
The center has definitely had a positive impact on students and staff at the school.
Several students have gained confidence by using the facilities and improving their fitness, Mike Bordeau, another certified teacher at the fitness center, says. He also says that by using the center students can prepare for life after high school by learning to make healthy choices.
“It’s another opportunity for students to help learn lifelong fitness,” Latremore adds.

The center also has made it a priority to make fitness an importance in the life of the staff at Plattsburgh High School. In a program called “Commit to be Fit,” staff and faculty meet four times a week to improve fitness and health by using the center.
“A lot of our faculty and staff has made it part of their everyday routine” Bordeau says.
The center provides a good alternative for staff that want to remain fit but don’t have the time or the money for a private gym.
“It’s easily accessible and free and we have some really good equipment,” Latremore says.
The environment between the staff and the students in the center is one that is comfortable and positive as well.
“We have a good environment between faculty and students,” Bordeau says.
The fitness center is open for students and faculty on a daily basis, after school until 4:30. The certified teachers themselves even use the center for their personal fitness routine.
“We both use it,” Latremore says.
“About 40 to 50 percent of people who work here are involved in using the center,” Bordeau adds.
New York state is required to provide kindergarten through grade 12 physical education to students. Although physical education is not required daily, it is a requirement for students in order to graduate.
Plattsburgh High School offers a traditional physical education program to students as well as outside opportunities such as the center and team sports.
In past years the high school had offered primarily team sports as the only opportunity for fitness outside of physical education, but since opening the center more students have been able to participate in exercise programs.
“Not everyone can do that,” Latremore says referring to team sports. “This offers more opportunities to be active.”
Jason Lehmbeck, president of the New York Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, says there is mounting evidence and research that supports physical education and fitness benefits.
“Students that are physically fit achieve more in the classroom and in general have better energy and happier lives than those who are not fit,” he says.
Melissa Olster, a personal trainer at the Plattsburgh State University Fitness Center, also says that fitness is an important part of life and helps increase ones overall health in the long-run.
Lehmbeck says specific benefits for young adults and children from fitness also include less illness and better self-confidence.
“Bottom line, we feel very passionate that what we do has an opportunity to impact how we feel everyday of our lives,” Lehmbeck says. “We are committed to improving the quality of life for all kids, not just athletes and we are always seeking better ways of doing that.”

Plattsburgh refusing recess reform

2010-03-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

By Melissa Erny
Playworks, a California-based nonprofit organization, is hiring more and more coaches for schools all across the country just for recess periods. These aren’t regular coaches, though. They aren’t there for a young sports team – they’re there to make sure kids do activities that are scheduled out during their free time rather than doing what they want.
Will these changes be coming to Plattsburgh elementary schools any time soon? Local principals say no.
The program is run by what they call a recess coach. They put together physical activities and supervise children as they perform them as a substitute to free time recess. Activities include anything from running around an obstacle course set up by the coach to simply running laps. With this program in place, children must do the instructed activities or they receive disciplinary actions. The level of supervision helps lower the amount of injury occurring on the playground. In a study at the University Heights Charter School in Newark students who work with the program have shown to perform better socially and are less likely to bully.
Carrie Zales, principal of the Oak Street Elementary School, says that recess is already monitored as much as it needs to be. The school doesn’t plan for recess to be run by a coach anytime soon. The school has other programs put into place to correct bullying and they do not feel that more measures are necessary. “We educate our students with the programs: Steps to Respect and Second Step.” These programs already do the job of a structured recess and teach children not to bully and get along with others. “We act on individual cases of challenge with reteaching and consequences.”
Bailey Avenue Elementary School and Momot Elementary School agree with these teachings and neither plan on asking for a recess coach. None of these schools reflect enough problems with bullying for this to be necessary. Children who do bully receive treatment immediately.
There are some who think there could be benefits to a structured recess. Dr. Raymond Havlicek, a Lake Placid psychologist who has dealt with children in the past, thinks the program could be very beneficial and is almost necessary. He doesn’t think that recess is necessary and that this program could benefit in many ways.
“The idea of adding additional structure may be positive for kids,” he says. “The reason is the poor performance.” Though the National Center for Education Statistics listed that the enrollment of children into elementary school has gone up 1% between 2001 and 2006, Dr. Havlicek says students are performing worse than ever. He believes that this additional structure in recess could help them do better in school as well as socially. He says that if children were made to play together then it could be very positive to their peer-structure. Fewer kids would be left out because everyone would be included.
He also says that there would be no detrimental effects on a child’s psyche from the structure a coach may provide. “Children are very robust.” He believes that it will help relieve any stress that children may be facing during recess and would have a positive impact on decreasing bullying in school.
However, parents of children across the country whose schools have already taken on a recess coach are crying out. They say that children need to rest during the day and this makes them come home tired and worn out. In The New York Times, Maria Costa, a mother of three children, says she couldn’t imagine going a whole day without having a break as an adult or a child. Since then recess has now been restored at her daughter’s school. “It’s just not natural.”

Figure skating science

2010-03-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Delosh
For some figure skating is a way of life with hopes of fulfilling dreams of winning Olympic gold. For others it’s a form of art on ice they can watch and wonder how these jumps and spins can be done. It is not without desire, want, and persistence that figure skating would be what it is today.
Children who live in the North Country tend to be put in skates when they are able to walk, whether they are hockey skates or figure skates. As they progress with each sport injuries may be involved. These injuries can sometimes be minor or major ones. Those triple axels, spirals and spins do not come without consequences. Artistry in skating has taken a back seat to these gasping jumps unfortunately, leaving these young figure skaters fit for injury.
Like gymnastics girls peak at a young age in figure skating. It is a lot easier to throw your body into the air when you weigh 90 pounds and are only five feet tall, compared to someone of 130 pounds and is 5’6. The older you get the harder everything is. The girls on top of the podium winning gold medals at world championships are 12-15 years old; you very rarely see someone who is 30 years old.
Now, if there were a way to solve these injuries, and perfect certain jumps, would it be a good idea to bring forward and use? Today scientists are teaming up to try and accomplish this by a computer and motion sensors attached to a skater’s body. The questions are, how does this work, and will it really help a figure skaters ability to polish their jumps with less injury to their health?
This computer may help skaters but some skeptics say it will take away from the art of figure skating. However, being able to know precise movements that will help their many different moves may change the life of figure skating. This computer, according to the New York Times, “allows researchers to mimic skaters' positions during jumps and calibrate the effect of altering angles of the head, torso, arm and leg.” Imagine struggling for so long to complete one of the most rigorous jumps, and you keep falling after each attempt. Then, with the simplicity of a computer, your frustrations have been solved.
“I think that if they did use that technology it would take away the artistry of skating and the experience skaters get when they accomplish difficult things,” says Samantha DeLosh, an 18-year-old figure skater who has been skating since she was six. She has been a part of one of the best known synchronized skating teams on the Eastern Coast of the United States, The Ice Illusions. This team has skated on to many undefeated years, capturing the all around gold medal in the Eastern Synchronized Skating Championships twice.
“It would come down to, I need to start turning at this moment because science told me to do it. It’s turning into a science equation, and it’s taking away the freedom of skating,” she says. Even though she may seem like she is not for the computer she does say, “I don’t think that people should depend on it, but I think it may be something interesting to try.” She continues saying, “I think they could hold clinics for it, but I don’t think it should become a part of the training.”
But according to recent statistics from the United States Figure Skating Association, the two most common injuries are with the lower back and knee-roughly being 34% and 26%. This statistic is just two of many injuries.
DeLosh says, “Well, for the health of the skater it would be beneficial but not for the health of the sport.” She explains, “I just, I mean yeah it’d be nice, but I think if it started getting too involved and too dominate of skating and the coaching process it will just turn into a science. I think they are creating a figure skater at a scientific stand point where as not from a physical standpoint.”
For so long skating has been something either you are born to do or simply you are not at all made for. “I think it would take away from those who can’t afford it; it would add to if you can’t afford this then what are you supposed to do?” says DeLosh. “It would divide more skaters if you can’t afford the technology, you will fall behind and it would take away from the talent of skating.” Talent is the key to figure skating. Could this new technology be an easy way out to a sport that we all once knew was either pure luck or talent? “Because of this technology they may get ahead of you even if they aren’t as talented,” says DeLosh.
However with the science of skating changing, the judging system is as well. The International Judging System decided to give skaters more challenge during competitions. A couple years ago skaters were able to complete all required jumps within the first minute of their program. Now, they are to continue these powerful jumps throughout their routines. The New York Times says, “Each skill in a performance now receives specific points, requiring more focus. And skaters no longer have an incentive to perform all jumps early in a program before they tire-now, jumps done later earn extra points.”
With this, skaters train harder and a lot more to acquire the physical strength to accomplish this difficult and tiring task. Many skaters by the time they are 10 years old develop bone fractures, muscle complications, torn ligaments, and sometimes injuries that require surgery. A main one discussed earlier is knee injuries. When doing specific jumps, a landing is involved. This landing will take a strain on just one leg. Think about picking off the ice and you’re up in the air only to come back down on just one leg. Skaters tend to replay jumps over and over until they get it right. This is what causes those knee injuries due to the shock absorption occurring when landing.
Another injury in the statistic is lower back or tailbone fractures. These are definitely not a highlight of figure skating. A simple slip or wrong edge can send someone falling on the ice and of course when you fall the most commonplace would be your bottom. Wrist injuries also occur because when falling people have a tendency to put their arms out causing impact on the wrist and elbow. Another common one many skaters will have to deal with all their lives are hip injuries. This injury may not come into effect until they are older, like for example Olympic Gold medalist at the age of 14; Tara Lipinski under went hip surgery when she was 18 years old. The constant landing on one leg puts major impact and causes absorption into that whole side of the body.
These injuries may make some not want to attempt this sport; however, just like any other sport training is required. This training will help with injury if skaters know the proper way to execute jumps. “The accelerometer study is part of a flowering of research on safety and performance,” says the New York Times. They continue saying, “A year-round pursuit for competitive skaters, emphasizes athleticism and endurance more than ever before.” All skaters may not favor this computer, but for those prone to injury it may come in handy.
The research being conducted at this time could lead to new training regiments. These include, “off-ice conditioning and also limiting repetitions of jumps during a practice,” says the New York Times. These researchers look at skating as a whole meaning the physics, exercise, conditioning, and everything that comes with it. Hopefully with the knowledge they gain skating will become safer for young girls and boys, while injury will be less prone to happening.
As for an experienced skater like DeLosh, this computer sensor may be helpful she thinks, but at the same time may be taking away the artistry of skating, and the pure talent this sport is all about. “Obviously it would be good to look into if you are getting injured, then you should go look into it,” says DeLosh. However, she continues saying, “If you’re a perfectly fine skater you shouldn’t be using this to base your skating off of, use it as a rehabilitation I don’t think it should be used frequently.”
DeLosh says, “Figure skating has been around for so long, why change it now when it’s about the raw talent of practice and putting your all into something, don’t let a computer start telling you what to do.”

Charitable giving to churches during tough times

2010-03-09T12:47:00.001-08:00

By Anthony Magliulo
Economically, times have been rough on many of us of late, but how has this affected charitable giving where churches are concerned? And, does the season of Lent have any effect on giving?
Father Timothy Canaan, pastor of St. Johns and the Newman Center said it was a little lower, but there wasn’t much of a change seen. “People have not been stingy with the Lord,” he said. On the other hand Pastor Britt Vickstrom of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer says that the recession has hurt giving. John Millington, pastor of the Ellington Wesleyan Church says that that he has seen no difference. Lent does not really seem to have an effect on charitable giving, at least in monetary terms.
Even with the amount of giving remaining roughly the same, is it enough? According to Ronald Rene, campus youth minister, it may not be. It’s not so much that people may be giving any less, in fact on the whole they are giving about the same, but it is that inflation has been on the rise. This causes expenses to skyrocket, and a church, just like anything else, costs money to operate and to be maintained.
Monsignor Robert Aucoin, principle of Seton Academy says that the general public’s idea of what giving is needs to be changed, and that people need to be educated about giving. He said that “A true sense of giving is based on the need of a person to give.” Both Aucoin and Vickstrom spoke of people saving up money to give instead of giving what was left over. To Aucoin, monetary giving could also be seen as a form of fasting. He said “The idea behind fasting is to learn to do without so that you can learn to do.” This way you can discover how much more you can do because of God’s grace.
Giving does not necessitate monetary giving either. Father Canaan spoke of doing extra things to help those in need, such as volunteering. He also mentioned looking for ways to put your talents to use in order to help others.

If there’s snow, they will come

2010-03-09T12:42:00.000-08:00

By Ashleigh Livingston
With property values down and unemployment rates up, it may seem an unlikely time to relax and have a little fun. But what do New Yorkers do when they’re strapped for cash and the economy is on a downhill slope? It seems they strap on their ski boots and hit the slopes.
New York state has had more than 4.1 million skier visits this year, according to Scott Brandi, president of Ski Areas of New York Inc., a trade association that represents 40 of New York state’s 48 ski areas.
Brandi said that while national ski areas have been hurt by the recession, New York state ski area sales are up anywhere from 2 to 5 percent, with the Catskill region faring the best because of the abundance of snow it’s received this winter.
For the ski industry, the presence of snow and good ski weather is more of a concern than the status of the economy, explained Ted Blazer, president and CEO of the Olympic Regional Development Authority, which operates Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, N.Y.
“When there is snow, people want to ski,” said Blazer, adding that although Whiteface skier visits are down slightly from last year, he expects that by the end of the ski season those numbers will come out even with or slightly ahead of last year.
Many suspect that the reason statewide ski resorts are faring so well despite the dismal economic outlook is because skiers are skiing closer to home. Chad Orton, e-marketing manager at Tours de Sport, a travel agency that offers discount ski and snowboard vacations at resorts across the country, explained that most people drive to eastern ski resorts, while western resorts generally require air travel, which can get costly.
“[The recession] has been tough on ‘destination’ resorts—places people have to get in a plane to go visit for an extended time, so restaurants and hotels in places like Colorado and Utah have been hurting. You’re seeing healthy skier-visit numbers at eastern resorts--places people can drive to for a relatively cheap ski fix,” said Joe Cutts, eastern editor of Ski Magazine, in an e-mail.
In addition to the close proximity of ski resorts for New Yorkers, Brandi credited the integrity of the skiers themselves as being part of the reason the state’s resorts are faring so well.
“Our skiers are passionate,” he said. “They are still going to ski; they are just going to stay closer to home.”
One such skier is Stacy Sweet of Chazy, N.Y., who said she typically skis about six to ten times a year at Titus Mountain in Malone, N.Y., and that the state of the economy has not affected the amount or frequency of her ski visits.
“Skiing is a great outdoor activity in the winter, when there’s not much else to do around here,” said Sweet. “I love it. I’d give up shopping before I’d give up skiing.”
For those skiers who need a little more motivation than just some snow and a mountain to get them on the slopes, Blazer suspects that the recent Olympic games may be just the inspiration they need. He added that the large amount of press that Lake Placid, N.Y., has received due to the games can only help to attract skiers to the nearby Whiteface Mountain.
But while regional ski resorts appear to be enduring the nation’s economic recession quite nicely, not every aspect of the ski industry has been so lucky.
“It’s been a tough time for manufacturers and retailers, who are selling fewer skis than normal,” said Cutts.
Although skiers are still skiing, many aren’t spending extra money on new equipment or the latest in designer ski wear.
But new skis or not, it seems that New Yorkers haven’t let the economy keep them off the mountains. And although temperatures are warming up and spring is in the air, Brandi said the ski season is not over yet.
“Last year [Ski Areas of New York Inc.] had a bad March because of weather, this year we are postured to have one of the best Marches ever,” said Brandi.

Divorce rates yield prenups for unmarried couples

2010-03-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

By Amanda Sivan Kaufman
Lynn Duquette, 49, of Clinton County lives an unusual life. She has never been divorced, almost never fights with her husband, and when it comes to sorting out household chores there is no exchange of words, the work just gets done.
While this life sounds ordinary, the Center for Divorce and Reform estimates that 40 percent of all marriages end in divorce in the United States as of 2009.
Despite this statistic, Duquette said she never thought about getting a prenuptial agreement, an “explosive trend” according to a report by the New York Post among couples today.
Glens Falls family law attorney William Nealon said that he infrequently has to do prenups, but when he does the most common items discussed are pensions and equities.
“It’s really a way that a party can assure himself or herself that previously acquired assets can go where they might want them to go in the event that a relationship falters,” Nealon said.
The thought never occurred to Duquette when she was living with her husband before marriage, but she said she would not discuss it if she had to do it over again.
“I knew that once I got married I wanted to stay married,” she said. “We don’t have a lot of property or a lot of belongings, so there wouldn’t be a lot to divvy up.”
After 25 years of marriage this August, she said she believes the choice she made is right and discussing a prenup is unromantic. But if “knock on wood” something did happen and she and her hubby would split, Duquette does not imagine that deciding who gets what would be an issue between them.
The US Census Bureau reported that the number of unmarried couples who are living together went up 88 percent between 1990 and 2007. The New York Post report attributes the prenup trend due to this.
Matthew Hewson and Hillary Sponable, both 20, fall into the category of an unmarried couple getting the agreement. They are not engaged but consider marriage a possibility.
Hewson promised his grandmother he would never sell or lose the 200 acres of land in Beekman Town she left him, something he wants to protect no matter how much he trusts his girlfriend.
Sponable said she has no interest in his “swamp.”
“The prenuptial agreement isn’t for her, I trust her. It’s for the lawyer that she’ll hire (in case of a divorce) to make the settlement because he’ll naturally point to the land to make the settlement for the money that we need,” Hewson said. “I don’t trust lawyers.”
The land in question is no joke according to Sponable, who said her boyfriend loves the land so much he told her that when he found people growing illegal narcotics on it he shot one in the leg.
“Well, I didn’t necessarily shoot anyone,” he said with a laugh. “I might have joked that I shot somebody but I didn’t shoot anybody. But it’s a much better story to tell your girlfriend when you’re first dating her that you blew someone apart, but in reality it didn’t happen.”
Hewson stands by the notion that “love and business don’t mix” and that getting the agreement is not unromantic but something important for couples to do as preparation. If the two have children, he doesn’t believe visitation would be an issue in the case of a divorce because both of them would be connected to their offspring.
Sheryl Maxwell, a Plattsburgh divorce and family law attorney, said that for married couples, children come first when discussing separation settlements often involving living arrangements and child support.
“(Prenuptial agreements) don’t leave room for any nasty surprises,” Hewson said.

Season of Lent

2010-03-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

By Bryan Foti
It is a Wednesday afternoon and the church bells are ringing. People are filling into the pews at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in downtown Plattsburgh. This is no ordinary Wednesday mass, this day it is Ash Wednesday, and this marks the beginning of the season of Lent.
Lent is the 40-day period that leads up to Easter. It includes Holy Week, which is the week that the Christian lord Jesus Christ dies. Lent also has some traditions that parishioners in the church follow. One tradition is to abstain from eating meat on Friday’s during the Lenten season. Another major tradition is sacrifice. Many people will give something up during Lent weather it is candy, cigarettes, or watching less TV. Nevertheless, what these Plattsburgh parishioners may not realize is that there is more to Lent then just giving something up and not eating meat; there is so much going on in the Religious Community during the Lenten Season.
When people think about Lent they think it is about honoring the death of Jesus Christ. Lent actually has nothing to do with the death of Christ at all. Monsignor Joseph Abuin who served as Priest from 1955- 2000 and currently lives at the rectory at St. Peter’s Church in Plattsburgh states, “The purpose of Lent is a period of preparation of those who are entering the church.” During Lent church allows people who have not received the sacraments of Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation to study and explore their faith though prayer, reading, and religious education. They will be accepted into the church by receiving these sacraments at the Easter Vigil, which takes place the night before Easter Sunday. Therese Moen is the Director of Religious Education at St. Peter’s Church in Plattsburgh and she helps these people in preparing for Baptism, Communion, and Conformation. When asked about her main message when instructing her classes about Lent she said “my main message is that Jesus Christ is the way, truth, and life.” Meaning that the way Jesus lived his life is the way that we should try to live our lives.
Moen also runs the RCIA program at St. Peter’s which helps people prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation during Lent. The first thing that they will go over is the three scrutinizes which according to Moen “is where you stop and reflect on social sins.” They then go on to learn about reflections on Water, and the Rising of Lazareth which represents resurrection.
Another misconception about Lent is that the number 40 means the number of days that Jesus walked in the desert. But according to Abuin it has nothing to do with that at all “the number 40 is a Jewish spiritual number which means many. If you look in the bible it rained for 40 days in the Noah’s Ark story, it took the Jewish people 40 years to find the holy land.” The number 40 symbolizes the long perpetration in preparing to receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil.
Abuin says that all Catholics during Lent should practice strong Christian life beliefs and the best way to do that is through prayer and penance. Penance is doing something good daily. Aubin says “it takes a lot of self control and will-power.” Lent gives Catholics a great chance to increase their faith with God. Attending daily mass and daily prayer are the best ways to increase one’s faith during the Lenten season according to Abuin. When it comes time to renew the baptismal vows that every Catholic does on Easter Sunday, “you have to mean it” says Abuin.
During the Lenten Season, it is said that you should sacrifice something that you like however, here in the Plattsburgh Community the parishes have a different meaning of sacrifice. Father Timothy Canaan is the Pastor at St. John the Baptist Church located in downtown Plattsburgh. He says that you should still give something up. For example let’s say a person gives up watching TV; the person should not sit at home, and act; like a bump on a log. The person should be pro-active with the free time given to him. Canaan suggests he should go to a soup kitchen, read, or do something productive with the time. At St. Peter’s Abuin agrees with Canaan saying that volunteering time and attending daily mass is much more productive then just sacrificing something during the Season.
During the Lenten Season, the parishes in the Plattsburgh Community get into the action by holding many fun and beneficial activities. Deacon Mark Bennett who is the Spiritual Life Director for St. Peter’s explains some of the programs that they offer. The first program that St. Peter’s offers is a scripture study called Why Catholics. In this program, the parishioners study readings from the passion, which is story about the death of Jesus Christ. They also read about the resurrection story. St. Peter’s has the Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent. Bennett raves about the Women’s Mediation Group that meets throughout lent saying “we get very good attendance here, 35 to 40 is the low and 100 being the high. The women really like this program.” Moen says that St. Peter’s offers Lenten reflections and a Cry Hope program that people involved with the parish can get involved in. When asked on how the community embraces Lent she says, “Father John (pastor at St. Peter’s) does a very nice job of decorating the Church, and gets the word out by preaching.”
St. John the Baptist Church offers it own programs during Lent as well. Just like St. Peter’s St. John’s offers the Stations of the Cross every Friday evening. Canaan offers the sacrament of Reconciliation every day from 3p.m. to 4 p.m. during Lent. The church has a book club that is currently reading “The 7 Last Words of Christ” during this Lenten Season. Next the church offers a Soup and Share program where people sit down have a meal and reflect on prayer. For the last 20 years St. John’s has been decking out their parishioners by giving them a pin that symbolizes lent to wear on their shirts. This year’s theme is “Journey to the Cross.”
It is easy to see how people can get immersed in the Lenten sprit. However, the Churches are not the only ones promoting Lent. Seton Catholic Central School came into existence in 1989 and currently has 180 students enrolled with 36 of them being international students. Stephen Tartaglia is a Guidance Consoler at the school. Tartaglia says the school gets involved with the Lenten culture “for one the morning prayers have more of a Lenten theme, and we decorate the walls in purple to represent Lent.” Seton Catholic normally has mass in their gym on Ash Wednesday. This year they were unable to do so because Ash Wednesday was during President’s week and the students were off from school. The school offers a Campus Ministry Club that does canned-food drives during Lent to give to the poor.
The Churches in Plattsburgh try their best to educate and offer programs to increase the faith of their parishioners. Canaan says “Lent is like a retreat it gives us a journey of 6-weeks to grow closer to our lord and give us new life.” When Bennett was asked how he tries to get the message of Lent across to his parishioners he says “you try to make one or two points. Make them quick and effective and relate them to what they are doing in their daily lives.”

Local schools taking steps to improve nutrition

2010-03-09T12:13:00.001-08:00

By Caitlin Fitzpatrick
Local schools in Plattsburgh are taking steps to improve the nutritional value of the food served in cafeterias in order to promote a healthier lifestyle for children and young adults. With the issue of childhood obesity coming into light because of First Lady Michelle Obama’s campaign to stop the growing problem, nutrition in schools has become more of a priority.
Charlene O’Connor, food service director for Plattsburgh City School District, says the schools are providing students with more fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grain products.
“I will purchase whole wheat pasta for the fiber. We have to meet a certain percentage of fiber,” O’Connor says.
She also says how the schools have made simple but important changes such as switching from sugary syrups to fruit juice with canned and cup fruits.
According to the lunch menu, although the schools still serve such items as pizza and nachos, they also serve a vegetable and a fruit at every meal and whole wheat bread for sandwiches and hamburgers.
However, eating healthier sometimes means more money to spend. Mary Lou Megarr, Second Vice President of the Plattsburgh Teachers Association, says that “balancing the nutritious value with the budget is a tricky preposition.”
Although the schools may not offer the most health conscious meals, she does believe that the “schools are doing everything they can to offer nutritious meals and snacks to children while trying to stay in the black financially.”
Megarr also says in order to not waste food cafeterias “can only have fresh fruits and vegetables that keep for long periods of time such as apples, bananas, carrots and oranges.”
O’Connor says that although the schools do still use processed foods in some the items served they are slowly “weaning off”.
“We used to buy chicken nuggets all the time and we just stopped,” she says, giving an example of how changes are being made over time.
MaryAnn Petrilena, president of the advocacy group Better School Food, believes that parents need to get involved as well in order to make sure that their children are receiving adequate nutrition through the schools.
“The best way for parents to monitor the food their kids eat at school is to ask the school to put in a bar code system which lists the food they eat and parents can go online and review the account,” Petrilena says.
Better School Food is an advocacy group that was created by a nutritionist to help parents and educators from all over the country create awareness of the connection between good health and good food.
Petrilena also says parents should conduct “honest and constant discussions at home, review the monthly menu and ask questions.”
Parents can get involved, but an issue remains as to whether children will eat healthier when at school without parental guidance.
“When kids have to decide between something unhealthy and something healthy they will usually choose something unhealthy,” Petrilena says.
But Megarr states as well that “substituting wheat rolls and bread for white is a great way of adding fiber without kids really even realizing they are eating healthier foods.”
Although strides have been made with the nutrition offered in local schools, changes still need to be made.
“I would like to see some of the cereals offered in the morning breakfast program changed to more grains, less sugar,” Megarr says.
According the American Dietetic Association, children usually get enough protein during lunch and dinner, but often lack getting the important ingredient during breakfast. They offer such suggestions as adding eggs and nuts to breakfast items in order to change this trend.
However, O’Connor says that compared to an older version of the cafeteria menu there have been big nutrition changes that the schools should be recognized for including “less processed foods” and “more fresh than canned or frozen.”
She also adds that schools are “offering more entrees and more choices” than ever before.

Are North Country airports taking next big step?

2010-03-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

By Melissa Erny
Airports around the world are adding more and more security by placing new devices called full body scanners into action. International airports have become a main location for the technology, but it is still uncertain whether local airports – Plattsburgh International Airport, Albany International Airport and Burlington International Airport – will be getting the technology.
The Transportation Security Administration placed 150 of these new scanners into airports across the United States at the beginning of 2010 because of the attempted Christmas Day attack that occurred on a flight to Detroit. The TSA says that the technology can catch things a metal detector misses and would be able to replace pat-down searches. At the end of January, they announced 300 more of these scanners would be purchased and distributed, but had no comment on where they would be going.
Thomas Long, manager of the Plattsburgh International Airport, would not comment as to whether or not he knew if any of these full body scanners coming to his airport. Similar walls were put into place by management at the Albany International Airport, Burlington International Airport and the Burlington division of the TSA, blocking any information saying if scanners will be coming to the North Country region in the near future. “We cannot make a comment at this time,” a representative from the Burlington TSA said when asked to be interviewed on the matter. He said the only information available on the scanners can be found on the national TSA website, http://www.tsa.gov.
There is still some hope for those in the area who want full body scanners to secure their travel and willing to drive about 70 miles to get it. In Montreal’s January 22 newspaper, The Gazette, Mathieu Larocque, a spokesman for the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, announced that they are in the process of putting 11 full body scanners in the Montreal International Airport. The timeline is still unclear for when they will be up and running, but Larocque says they hope these scanners will be ready come this spring.
Full body scanners are backscatter machines that use millimeter waves to take a 3D X-ray image of their body. Passengers step into it one at a time with their hands over their heads, fingertips touching, while it scans the image. The idea is for them to replace metal detectors and physical pat-downs.
Before the Christmas Day terrorist attempt, the amount that the images revealed and who was viewing them concerned many people and was a major reason for why more were not already in place.
For those worried about what an image reveals, the new technology has developed so that scans blur the passenger’s face and he or she appears to be no more than a chalk outline. It focuses mainly on areas where items are frequently concealed. They reveal items that metal detectors cannot, like plastic or chemical explosives and nonmetallic weapons hidden in pockets or strapped to a person’s body. Machines can also show guns, knives and other metallic objects that metal detectors catch.
The process takes two different security guards; one assisting the passenger and running the machine, and one closed in a walled off room where they can only see the image and not the person. The guard viewing the images cannot take a cell phone or camera in with him and images are not saved or able to print. When the screen guard notices something unusual, he alerts the guard assisting the passenger to check them further.
Unfortunately, the technology still takes around 15 seconds to scan one passenger, making it slower than using metal detectors. Though the TSA insists that in some instances the technology is actually faster. For persons who would usually have to go through a metal detector multiple times due to some medical devices, they would only have to go through the full body scanner once.
According to the TSA, the millimeter wave technology these scanners use is less than what you are exposed to while using a cell phone. The backscatter machines used also pose no threat to a person’s health. The X-ray technology is equivalent to what someone gets from riding on a plane for two minutes, says the TSA.
Physical pat-downs are still offered for anyone who is still unsure or afraid of the technology.

Diversity in area classrooms

2010-03-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

By Kevin Eloi
U.S.A.! U.S.A.! We hear the proverbial chants time and time again. Whether it’s during the Olympics or any other national event, our patriotism is as visible and obvious as the color of the sun. It can be argued that we are a competitive nation with an ego the size of Mount Everest. We want to win plain and simple. While some may say we’ve conquered the fields and courts, it can also be said we’re losing the battle in one particularly important area; the classroom.
Within the field of education there are many underlying factors that determine the success or failure of students. One key element regarding this paradigm is the distinction between foreign students and domestic students, particularly those who hail from Plattsburgh. Is there a leveled playing field in the arena of education when it pertains to domestic and international students? Educational officials in the city of Plattsburgh have a sense on the peerless environment created through the influx of foreign influence.
In a remote area such as Plattsburgh, diversity can play an essential role in breaking down cultural and social barriers. Education, though regarded as a footnote for either, still plays an instrumental role in distinguishing the now diverse atmosphere of the North Country. J.W. Wiley, the Director of Center for Diversity, Pluralism, and Inclusion (CDP) at SUNY Plattsburgh, praised the effort of foreign students while urging more focus and maturity on the part of students in Plattsburgh. “Students from abroad are much more mature have a much better work ethic,” he said. “They rarely inject themselves into our culture initially which makes them isolated from the distractions that students from here face. It’s unfortunate because students in Plattsburgh are more privileged and have far more resources than students from abroad. Also, international students have a bigger investment in their education which motivates them to do well.” Mr. Wiley’s point is in direct correlation with a December 2006 report done by Andreas Schleicher, Directorate for Education, Organization for Economic Co-operation, and Development. Although the report was done on a national basis, it provides insight on Mr. Wiley’s inferences regarding the performances of foreign students on a local level. According to Mr. Schleicher, the findings indicate that that immigrant students report similar or higher levels of positive learning dispositions compared with their native peers. Internationals often report higher levels of interest and motivation in mathematics and more positive attitudes towards schooling.
While many may agree with J.W. Wiley’s insinuations, others take a different angle to comprehending the differences between domestic and foreign students. “People don’t understand that education is the first priority in most cultures,” said Cody McCabe International Student Services Staff Staff Assistant Director. “Outside of learning the language and fitting into the culture, they have no disadvantages in adapting to Plattsburgh’s educational system.” However, Mr. McCabe didn’t condemn local domestic students for their lacking in the performance department. “Our culture doesn’t stress education enough. College is practically mandated in most cultures whereas it’s considered a choice in ours. There is an array of choices out there besides pursuing an education. Education is viewed as a task on a checklist. Students shouldn’t take the process of education for granted.”
The International Student Service is the primary authority in foreign student affairs. They coordinate the process of recruiting international students and aiding them with adjustments to SUNY Plattsburgh. The program has brought many bright young men and women to the city of Plattsburgh and they have not disappointed.
One of those students is Prince Thomas, a 19-year-old freshman at SUNY Plattsburgh. A business major from Antigua, Prince is among the many devout individuals that I.S.S. is proud of. He maintains a 3.9 GPA, he is a proud member of Club Caribbean, and also made the Dean’s list this past semester. While a typical weekend for a college student involves venturing downtown to hot spots such as The Green Room, Crazy Horse, or Peabody’s, Prince strays far away those conventional norms. On a Saturday night when half of Plattsburgh is letting loose from a stressful work week, you’ll find Prince in his room clinging to a book as if it were his first-born child. His enthusiasm for education is apparent and he understands the opportunity that is before him.
“My educational system back home is much tougher than the current one I’m in,” he says. In Antigua, our system is structured off the British which makes it harder and stricter. I don’t have much of a choice because my tuition is coming straight from my parent’s pocket. It adds to my focus and determination. I think American students, or at least the ones I see in Plattsburgh, are too lazy and are being spoon-fed education. They lack the go-getter mentality.”
Many of the public officials in the city seem to adhere to the same point. There is a gap, whether great or small, that separates Plattsburgh students from internationals. “We embrace all walks of life in the community of Plattsburgh,” says Glen Hurlock, Principal of Plattsburgh High School. “However it is important that we find a balance so that academic performance isn’t based on domestic or foreign attributes.”
There are some tangible dynamics that can cause such a gap continuously grow. Catrillia Young, an Associate Director at I.S.S., elaborated on the specific elements that distinguish the academic prowess of Plattsburgh-born and domestic students. She’s traveled abroad to many different countries recruiting students for Plattsburgh. “Their preparation is a lot different from ours,” said Ms. Young. Their system is more lecture-based whereas the U.S. is more hands on. Also, International students are further ahead in Math and Science."
These assertions may hold ground, but American students are better-rounded in many other areas. In various cultures, extracurricular activities are frowned upon. For example, Springdale Delhi High School in India is very narrow in terms of educational opportunities. Students at the institution choose their major in high school rather than college and it is extremely formal unlike the leniency that we are accustomed to here in Plattsburgh. Interestingly, in Paris there is a college, The New Sorbonne, where attendance is obsolete. Students are just required to take a final exam.

While many have made their own suppositions regarding whether domestic students are losing ground to their international counterparts, some have suggested ways to bridge the gap. Instigating dialogue amongst both parties would be a sufficient starting point. Domestic and foreign are merely labels with vague connotations when it comes to the classroom.
“It simply shouldn’t be about that,” said Prince Thomas. I’ve been here for almost a year and I’ve made great friends in Plattsburgh. When I walk into Hawkins, I don’t see American or foreign students. I see just students. It should never be about nationality but rather each individual’s inclination.

North Country's Vitamin D deficiency

2010-03-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

By Amanda DeLosh
Spring is just around, which means summer is even close. Birds are chirping in the air, blue skies gleam across the sky and the best part of it all, the sun is starting to shine so brightly and warming our faces.
After a harsh-cold winter with gloomy dark skies following everyone like shadows, it’s time for everyone to start feeling good. However, could there be some underlying cause affecting North Country people from being more healthy and active in the wintertime?
Some say yes, and others say it’s just the wintertime laziness coming into play. Living in Upstate NY means a lot of snow, ice, and Plattsburgh’s favorite, the wind off Lake Champlain that seems to come in all directions when walking down the street. Vitamin D, the drink milk equals strong bones campaignee, hits hard when people are exposed to less sun and performing less physical activity. Jorunn Gran-Henricksen, a nutrition professor at Plattsburgh State says, “Vitamin D helps regulate calcium in the body.” She continues saying, “If you don’t have it, it won’t absorb calcium as well from food.” Once fall hits people seem to migrate into there houses and hibernate for all of winter, which the end result would be less physical activity, unless of course.
“The further North we live, the harder it is to get Vitamin D,” says Gran-Henricksen. “The sun has to be a certain strength to get the right amount,” she continues. She explained how there are certain times of the year when the sun is its strongest. “Almost the middle of March to mid October is stronger, compared to other months throughout the year.” Gran-Henrickson says that it is good to be outside for about 15 minutes to get the proper amount of sunlight for Vitamin D.
“The last 15 years Vitamin D is becoming more involved with helping regulation of cell growth, and the maturation of cells along with immune cells, to fight cancer, and blood pressure regulation,” says Gran-Henricksen.
There is isn’t anymore sun gleaming from the warm blue sky, all there is are mixtures of overcast gray skies that seem very depressing, unless of course, you’re a vampire, but even vampires need strong bones. Garrett Billings, a former student at North Country Community College in Saranac, says, “I would say that if no one had told me I didn't have a Vitamin D deficiency problem I would think I had depression.” He continues to say, “And from someone who's been on anti-depressants and they didn't heal all of my symptoms, I’m glad it was caught because you wouldn't believe how much a vitamin can change a life when it's in need.”
As everyone can see, once the weather starts getting nicer, people start coming out of the woodworks and there is more activity outside with people smiling and laughing and just having a great time in the sun. There’s a sense of relaxation, a mood of happiness, and an altogether feeling of relief the winter is finally over.
Billings noticed in just a short period of time how much his life changed after taking Vitamin D. “ Well I just starting taking them but I’ve noticed a difference already,” He adds, “I take on before bed and one when I wake up in the morning and when I wake up I feel a little more rested and when I take one in the morning I feel like it gives me a little bit more energy throughout the day.”
Of course, everyone is different so different dosages will be needed in order to help this vitamin deficiency. Many researchers are finding new and exciting news. Vitamin D, the nutrient the body makes from sunlight and is also found in milk and fish, is said to build bones, strengthen the immune system and lower risk of diabetes as well as kidney and heart disease. All of these illnesses are somewhat controlled by a little vitamin D?
Many people are probably wondering now what the symptoms are. Symptoms of a Vitamin D deficiency can range from muscle pains, low energy and fatigue, sign of depression, mood swings and having sleep problems. These may all seem like normal signs of just about everything, more than likely living in the North Country having these symptoms will entail having this deficiency.
Kindsley Dodson, from Lake Placid, NY, has lived in the North Country her whole life. Not until hearing these questions has she realized that having a Vitamin D deficiency could definitely affect more people in living here. “Not being around the sun for about 5 months out of the year will definitely take a toll on people,” Dodson says. “Especially when we get such little sun, I know I tend to miss it and when it does come out you just, feel better.”
Checking to see if someone has this deficiency is very important for North Country people especially. Just a routine check-up will do the trick to get blood-work, and one will soon find out. “The symptoms are so vague it could be anything diagnosed, so checking blood levels is the best way,” says Gran-Henricksen.
There are many things that people can do to help regulate their Vitamin D intake. As described by Gran-Henrickson, “In mid March-October be outside for 15 minutes, also having three cups of milk per day is close to the Vitamin D amount you will need, and one other thing is eating fish, especially salt water fish, two times a week.”
There are ways to prevent this deficiency from occurring, and that basically means, eating healthy; getting enough protein in throughout the day. Also, taking a multivitamin will fill any gaps in you nutrition system, and if you can some type of healthy sun exposure, making sure to use the proper protection of SPF. All of these tips will help in the long run, and if people are still unsure taking a vitamin D supplement will help ease the curiosity of, “do I have a deficiency?”Living in the North Country may be peaceful as families look out their windows into the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, but staying healthy is something everyone should make sure they do. So, when children come home from school and start playing with their milk at dinner time saying, “hey mom, look I have a milk mustache!” at least you know they are one step closer to having a healthy immune system.

State receives 'C' for its dental coverage for kids

2010-03-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

By Katherine Clark
A study done by the Pew Center on the states, The Cost of Delay: State Dental policies fail one in five children, concluded that about two-thirds of states do not have key policies set up to meet the dental needs for children that need it the most.
The Pew Center organized states by the number of benchmark requirements it met, New York State met four out of eight, with a grade of a C.
“In New York 33.7% of children with Medicaid see a dentist, that’s one in every three kids that get to see a dentist annually,” said Laurie Norris, Campaign manager for the Pew trusts.
Poor dental health can lead to a number of problems for children and even follow him or her into adulthood if not treated. In severe cases of untreated dental problems cause children to miss school due to pain, lost days at work, or even death.
In 2007
The eight benchmark policies that the Pew Center has graded states in are procedures that have been proven in practice to be effective and cost efficient.
Where NYS failed to make the grade was State provided fluoridated water. Having fluoridated water is one of the most effective public health services for teeth.
Counteracting tooth decay, fluoridated water would only cost about a $1 invested, communities could save $38 in dental treatments costs according to the Pew Center. To make the grade, 75 percent of all NYS water supply in community systems, not including well water, would have to be fluoridated. In New York only 73 percent of water is fluoridated.
NYS has also failed to provide sealant programs in at least 25 percent of high-risk schools. Sealant, clear, plastic coatings applied by a hygienist or a dentist has been recognized by the Center for Disease Control as one of the best preventative strategies for preventing cavities to children in a low income family.
A study done by the U.S. Surgeon General conducted in 2000.
“New York State conducted a study on third graders and found that 33.1 percent of New York State third graders have untreated cavities, that means that they’re walking around with holes in their teeth and probably in pain,” said Norris.

Dispute over benefits, dangers of fluoride

2009-12-03T09:23:00.001-08:00

By Emmalie Vance
There was much dispute at the Common Council meeting in Plattsburgh on Nov. 19 on the subject of water fluoridation and whether or not the city should continue to fluoridate the public water. The final vote was four to two in favor of continued fluoridation, but not before several community and council members spoke their mind.
Upon entering the auditorium where the meeting was to take place, there were several handouts about fluoride that were available. There was a fact sheet about fluoride written by Tony Besthoff, chemical engineer at Feasy & Besthoff, Plattsburgh’s fluoride provider, and three others from the CDC covering the benefits, cost savings and positive national trend of fluoridation. There were no documents stating any negatives.
Ward I councilman Tim Carpenter, one of the four who voted in favor of continued fluoridation made his decision after turning to the Department of Health for their recommendation.
“We [the council] all personally did a lot of research but in the end, the stuff I looked at was so technical and I’m not a chemist or a doctor,” Carpenter said. “When something like this comes up, there’s always a board of experts we the council can ask. They said they’d done tons and tons of studies and that they believe the water should have fluoride in it.”
Ward IV Councilman James Calnon took the same approach and turned to the experts for help.
“This is a health and science issue,” Calnon said. “There are exhaustive studies at the national level. Some of them are old but these are the folks with the skill and the charge with protecting out dental heath and I’m trusting in them to protect it diligently.”
According to the CDC, “Water fluoridation is a low-cost way to bring the benefits of fluoride to all residents of the community.”
More quick facts from the CDC state that 70 percent of citizens in the U.S. who get their water from the public system have fluoridated water; fluoride is a natural occurrence in water but fluoridating water means adding more fluoride to reach the “best” or “optimal” level; fluoridation was started in 1945 in Grand Rapids, Mich., and has been used ever since; fluoride is proven to stop or even reverse tooth decay and fluoride dietary supplements and over-the-counter dental products such as toothpaste and mouth wash work in the same way as fluoride-supplemented water.
On the other side of the discussion stood Doug Butdorf of 64 Trafalgar Dr. who said, “I don’t have strong feelings for fluoridation. Many other municipalities have voted to take [fluoride] out and I think we should follow suit.”
Anthropologist Dr. Richard Robbins was also against fluoridation and prepared a speech, which he presented to the council.
Robbins said that fluoride is known to be a toxic chemical and the point at which it becomes harmful is still unknown. He also recognized the fact that it has been proven to help avoid tooth decay in malnourished populations but points out that if a person is not malnourished and brushes their teeth regularly, they would get all the fluoride they need.
“The question is not whether the product or the dosage meets government standards; it’s whether the government standards, as they have been in the past, are based on too little research and on faulty assumptions,” Robbins said.

Despite economy, people still skiing

2009-12-03T09:17:00.001-08:00

By Kevin Stump
“Gore is on a tremendous growth curve and has been undergoing significant changes over the last several season,” said Emily Stanton, marketing director at Gore Mountain Resort. Both Gore Mountain and Whiteface Ski Resort are state operated said Stanton.
“I feel people are getting a better deal than last year because of how much the mountain has improved,” said Stanton.
“Even though the economy is not ideal, I am still going to go [skiing], the gas card is just a plus,” said Kerry Mowbray, SUNY Plattsburgh student. For Whiteface and Gore Mountain, students pay the same $ 260 as last year but the first 100 to sign up get a $ 25 gas card.
“Myself and three of my friends all signed up early to get the $ 25 gas card, so we have $ 100 dollars in gas collectively to go skiing,” said Tyler Havercamp, SUNY Plattsburgh student.
Gore Mountain has held the majority of their prices, even though they have expanded their services from last year.
Gore season passes for an adult are $ 799 thru November 13th and $ 959 November 14th and on. For one full weekday of skiing, it costs $ 64 for an adult and for a weekend day it costs $ 71 for an adult. To rent skies for one day costs $ 40 for an adult.
For a couple to ski, with rentals, at Gore Mountain Resort for a weekend before considering the cost of two nights at a hotel with food and other expenses costs $ 222.
“Adult, senior and student prices have gone up,” said Christian Deladruere, Jay Peak sales representative.
“We are offering the same promotions as last year and our season pass sales have actually gone up since last year,” said Deladruere.
Jay Peak season passes are $ 599 for an adult until October 19th and are $699 after. For one full day of skiing, it costs $ 67 and for a half it costs $ 49.
For a couple to ski, with rentals, at Jay Peak for a weekend before considering the cost of two nights at a hotel with food and other expenses costs $ 214.
For both Gore, Whiteface, and Jay Peak someone with a season pass must go skiing at least 10 times a season.
“We do four day trips and one weekend trips through the Student Association Activities Coordination Board (ACB) Trips committee,” said Melanie Wyand, Student Association secretary. The day trips are $ 25-30 round trip including transportation and lift ticket.
“Luckily our budget [for the Student Association] is totally separate from the colleges, so we can still put these trips together,” said Wyand.
“If we had to pay the full season pass prices we would not have been able to afford it. Thankfully, Gore and Whiteface appreciate how broke students are,” said Mowbray.

Fluoride in drinking water controversial

2009-12-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

ByAurora O’Geen
The Plattsburgh town council recently held a meeting on Thursday, November 20, 2008. The meeting focused on the issue of water fluoridation in the town of Plattsburgh. Arguments arose from both sides, for and against water fluoridation. It seems very few young people are aware of what water fluoridation entails; whether it be positive or negative.
First off, there are some major factors to consider about water fluoridation, there are both health benefits and risks involved. The Center for Disease Control provided information surrounding the benefits of fluoride use. For example, it is said that fluoride works by stopping and even reversing the decay process- specifically working to keep tooth enamel strong and solid. It is also said that nearly all tooth decay can be prevented when fluoride is combined with dental sealants and other fluoride products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
SUNY Plattsburgh student and North Country resident, Shanelle Loffler, says she was surprised to find out just how beneficial fluoride can be. “I think it’s great that such benefits can come from fluoride. Having fluoride available to everyone in the community is also a great way to prevent tooth decay for those who couldn’t normally afford proper dental care.”
Plattsburgh State nursing student and North Country resident Ashley Holmes agrees with Loffler saying, “The fact that fluoride is available to us is a real benefit for those who lack proper dental care, if we are able to provide fluoride and its benefits to everyone in the community, why would we stop?”
Dental hygienist Laurie Chase agrees that the benefits of fluoride are apparent. “Fluoride use holds benefits for both children and adults. It’s an extra step that helps prevent tooth decay and shows significant results overtime. Everyone should take the necessary precautions in caring for their teeth and fluoride is an easy way to protect against decay.”
With such compelling benefits, using fluoride in the water seems like an obvious choice. However, there are downfalls to using fluoride that were also mentioned during Thursday’s meeting. Many people believe that when ingested, fluoride bears no benefits for users.
Plattsburgh resident Jessica Easton believes fluoride should be optional, “There are health risks with anything, and people should be able to choose whether or not they want to subject themselves to fluoride. It does seem to have benefits, but there should be options for those weary of ingesting so much fluoride.”
The area of Long Island New York is said to have a water system that is fluoride free. Long Island resident and SUNY Plattsburgh student Amanda Csajko says, “Although fluoride wasn’t offered in our water, I’ve had no serious consequences concerning my dental health. I’ve used dental products containing fluoride for years and have had no problems.”
Although Chase agrees there are benefits of fluoride use she recognizes why people may be weary of consuming the fluoride itself. Chase notes that there are healthy alternatives for those living without fluoridated water. “Many times fluoride is offered in schools as a mouthwash for those children in need of adequate dental care. There are a range of products available today for those who need extra fluoride to protect against decay.”
As for those living without water fluoridation, it seems there is no need for alarm. As long as proper dental care continues, tooth decay can be prevented. The benefits and downfalls of fluoride will continue to be a topic of debate for many people. As for now the residents of Plattsburgh have decided to continue with the fluoridation of the water system.

Rouses Point train station getting face lift

2009-12-03T09:05:00.001-08:00

By Cassandra Morrissey
Money is tight everywhere. The current economy is leaving both small businesses and private investors struggling to find cash anywhere possible. Businesses are closing their doors to prevent bankruptcy, construction is being put on hold because there’s minimal funding, and towns are prioritizing projects to help save money. Although the number of construction jobs fell more then 10 percent across the country last year, the village of Rouses Point has a unique structure that is creating both jobs and town appeal.
The Rouse Point train station is about to get a face lift. The station, which was originally built in 1889 by the Delaware and Hudson Railroad Company, currently serves as a stop for passengers travelling from Montreal to New York. The station was originally scheduled to be torn down in the mid 1990’s, but was eventually bought by the village of Rouses Point, with high hopes of fixing the building. Melissa McManus, Rouses Point revitalization and project manger noticed the uneasiness of the town concerning the station.
“It was so frustrating for us to watch that building slowly fall apart. We all knew that we wanted to do something to preserve the station and history, but we knew the first thing we needed was money,” McManus said.
Although, as with many town projects, money was initially hard to come by. The majority of repairs to the building consisted of replacing the roof and support structure would cost between 100-150 thousand dollars.
“The historical society tried for several years to get money. We did everything we could think of; fundraising, applying to the state, and nothing was working,” McManus said.
This situation changed beginning of 2009. Rouses Point received over 830 thousand dollars in grant money for the train station. The main source of the money came from the Transportation Enhancement Program and the American Relief and Recovery Act.
The transportation program currently is helping communities with the cost of transportation projects. Projects range from bike trails to sidewalks. The American Relief and Recovery Act is an economic stimulus package to help promote building, infrastructure, and domestic spending.
With the new grant money, the village has many options for the future usage of the train station. Rouses Point village historian Donna Racine hopes the historic aspect is the main factor of the revitalized building.
“It’s going to hopefully be geared towards a museum, with village archives and artifacts. So many people’s lives involved a part of the station, and that part should be preserved,” Racine said.
Courtney Demarasis is also from the area, and the station has always been a part of her life.
“I remember when I was young; I always walked by the station. The fact they are fixing it up will help the area and community’s morale,” Demarasis said.
Racine and Demarasis are not the only Rouses Point natives with high hopes for the future of the station. Benjamin Arno, a line man who has lived in the area since 1953 grew up with the station.
“The train station is a symbol of Rouses Point, and it brings back memories for so many people. When it gets fixed up, whatever they end up doing with it, it will be really nice,” Arno said.
Not only will the train station project bring back memories for people, its bringing jobs and money to the village. According to McManus, the project will create construction and engineering jobs, bring in design firms, and allow local people to have a hand in volunteering towards the end product. The station, which Amtrak currently runs through, will also encourage more tourists to visit the area.
Rouses Point Mayor George Rivers thinks one of the best parts of the finished station will be the effect it has on the village.
“When people come to Rouses Point, they see a station that’s slowly deteriorating. But this project will completely change that. People will see a beautiful building, and want to come back and spend time here. It’s a win-win situation for the village,” Rivers said.
A recent village meeting featured the next steps the town is taking in the stations revitalization process. Although construction on the building is not expected to begin until 2011, one main thought was present throughout the meeting; excitement.
“This is a beautiful building, and it’s going to be saved. Instead of sitting and deteriorating, it will be the center for the history of the village, a place where families and visitors can go. I can’t wait,” McManus said.

Wal-mart sells appalling items online

2009-12-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

By Zachery Lashway
In late October the world’s largest retailer made its presence in a much unexpected market.
Wal-Mart has decided to keep its customers even after they die by selling caskets and urns on its Web site.
“Caskets just aren’t Wal-Mart’s specialty. I feel Wal-Mart is just trying to get more money. They are trying to get their hands in as many markets as they can,” says Kyle Brassard a 21 year old college student.
Much to peoples surprise Wal-Mart is not the only department store selling caskets on its site. Costco, Wal-Mart’s discount competitor was the first department store to furnish its website with the end-of-life items.
Wal-Mart’s caskets range from $895 to $2899 and come in 14 different models. There are 19 different models of urns and the prices range from $94.05 to $214.05. Wal-Mart guarantees shipment to the customer within 48 hours of purchase.
Bert Wilcox, the Funeral Director and owner of Chateaugay Funeral Home, says he learned of Wal-Mart’s big move to sell caskets through a casket salesman in late October via E-mail.
“Its fine with me, it’s whatever the family wants, if they want to buy their casket from Wal-Mart they are entitled to do so. I do think it could eventually take a toll on funeral homes with their sales of caskets,” says Wilcox.
It’s federal law for funeral homes to accept third-party caskets, so whether customers buy their caskets from Wal-Mart, Costco or decide to make them themselves, funeral homes are obligated to accept them.
Although Wal-Mart claims to sell caskets at prices that undercut many funeral homes they are still quite comparable to Wilcox’s prices. Matter of fact, Wilcox’s most inexpensive casket is cheaper than Wal-Mart’s cheapest casket.
“My caskets start at $850 and can range in price up to $6900. I don’t carry very expensive caskets because our area generally doesn’t have a lot of money to spend on funerals,” says Wilcox.
“I feel I could get better quality, variety and service from an actual funeral home. Funeral homes have more experience. You can get a hands-on-feeling on where your money is going when you deal with a funeral home,” says Brassard.
Beverly Gillette, a retired senior citizen who has not yet made her funeral arrangements, feels Wal-Mart and other department stores selling caskets are overstepping their boundaries.
“Wal-Mart is not a place for caskets to be sold. Wal-Mart is not in the business to sell caskets. They don’t have the knowledge in the casket industry,” says Gillette.
Gillette who plans to be cremated says she wouldn’t consider buying an urn from Wal-Mart or a casket for that matter.
“They don’t have the knowledge about caskets, knowing them, the material or the life expectancy of the product. I just don’t think they have the knowledge a customer needs,” says Gillette.
Trevor Rabideau, a funeral director at Walker’s Funeral Home believes funeral homes serving larger areas with bigger populations will be more affected by Wal-Mart’s decision to sell caskets.
Rabideau says our area probably won’t experience the impact of Wal-Mart selling caskets for at least another five to 10 years from now. He says he would extend it that long because of the area.
“Our area is just starting to experience the influx of people who want to be cremated. It was five to 10 years ago the larger areas with bigger populations experienced the influx of people wanting to be cremated and it’s just making it to the North Country. But when the trend does make it up here we will deal with it,” says Rabideau.
“Our area is very traditional. People want to see the casket, touch it, feel it and see what they are buying. But there are things a customer can’t change when they purchase a casket from Wal-Mart, things like color and material, what you see is what you get and when the time comes they screw up an order it’s no skin off Wal-Mart’s back. To them it’s just another purchase. But eventually it will change the way people purchase caskets and urns,” says Rabideau.
Rabideau believes Wal-Mart decided to sell caskets because there is such a competition with every item on the market and they wanted to be a part of it.
“Wal-Mart wanted to touch on a market that hasn’t been touched on before, another avenue to make money,” says Rabideau.
Freda Whitfield, an 81 year old retired nurse already has her funeral arrangements paid for. She says even if she didn’t have them made she still wouldn’t turn to Wal-Mart for a casket.
“I feel Wal-Mart is underselling to the point they’re putting some businesses out of business,” says Whitfield. “Furthermore because this option is very new to customers, I don’t think it will affect this area too much. The customers in this area will prefer to go through funeral homes of choice to purchase their caskets or urns.”
When a customer searches for the right casket with the right price Wal-Mart gives the customer another option. However, there is one big thing Wal-Mart and other department stores can’t offer customers when they purchase a casket or an urn.
“One thing they can’t sell is our service. The service will never be taken from us. Service is one thing they cannot provide to people,” says Rabideau.

Venues close but music keeps playing

2009-12-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

By Mathias Kamin
Jay Ornsby, works at the Koffee Kat on Margret Street in Plattsburgh. He used to run a “punk house” in Morrisonville. Sharing a driveway with an old scrap metal yard, 946 Mason Street held the “Garage of Death”, an all age’s venue where local and international bands could come and showcase their art. They hailed from France, Japan, Canada and Plattsburgh high school. The spot held illegal shows that were supported by donations and word of mouth. The house held about 4 shows a month, for about 5 years, from 2000 to 2005.
“We provided a safe environment for people to come listen to music.” Ornsby said. The “Krak house” as it was called by some friends after Jay Krak, who would book many of the bands, had to shut down. The scrap yard and house were bought by the company Earth Works, and the new owners weren’t so please about the venue.
56 Elm Street used to be the home of the Koinonia center, a collaborative community space where musicians, artist and art lovers could come together. There mission statement read as such.
The “Koinonia Center exists to provide a drug- and alcohol-free art space, music space and community center to the residents of Plattsburgh, New York. We offer artists and musicians a place to display their art. Our aim is to simply give back to a community which has given us so much with ideals centered in fellowship, friendship and positivity.”
According to Koinonia’s Myspace page all shows are canceled until further notice.
The gap created by these closings has left space for other areas for music to open up. The Plattsburgh Music and Arts Center, located at 29 Clinton Street, is a place where “bands or individuals can come and practice fairly cheaply.” Said Jamse Ward, bass player for the local band Eat Sleep Funk, partner and co-founder or the PMAC.
It cost 10 dollars per hour for a band to use the space and practice at ‘gig volume and only 5 dollars an hour for an individual. Lessons in bass, drums, keyboard guitar and voice are also offered at the PMAC for a similar fee. “It is the cheap alternative to lessons at the college or elsewhere” said Ward.
The PMAC has been open for a year this past December and although it is not a music venue it is a place where a sense of music community has formed. The PMAC was started by Jamse Ward, Shawn Parrote and Bill Bougill.
Of course there are always those places that have permits to hold music, and these are the ones where a music lover doesn’t have to ask about. The Koffee Kat a small but colorful café on Margret Street in Plattsburgh has music nearly every Saturday night from 8-10. The Monopole, a tavern is hidden away on an alley off of Margaret, offers live music every Wednesday through Saturday. Irises Café and Wine Bar at 22 City Hall place, has acoustic music every Thursday night with live bands on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Coffee Camp also on Margaret St has been trying to have music every week for its patrons.
“It has been hit or miss for the past 8 years”, says Bevan Brady son of the owner of the Coffee Camp. “We lean towards jazz and blues music, but we allow a drum kit, and have been having more punk shows.” Brady believes that the reason he has seen more punk bands ask to play might have something to do with the fact that there are very few venues for that style of music around the area. He welcomes anyone with musical talent to come and ask for a spot on the calendar.

Regional towns disagree over airport contract

2009-12-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

By Jon Hochschartner
Harrietstown and Plattsburgh officials are in disagreement over what airline should service their airports.Plattsburgh officials prefer a bid offered by Colgan Air, which offers 34-seat planes with a higher ticket cost, while Harrietstown officials prefer a bid offered by Cape Air, which offers nine seat planes with a lower ticket cost.The issue was central to Harrietstown's Nov. 23 town board meeting.Town Supervisor Larry Miller said that if the Department of Transportation decides against separating the Essential Air Service contracts, it's "very possible" that Harrietstown's Adirondack Regional Airport could end up with Colgan Air."We've been working diligently," Miller said. "I've been working with the chamber, I've been calling our political allies, (including State Senator) Betty Little. I did receive a phone call today from (Congressman) Bill Owens, and he assures me that he's fighting for both airports to have what they're looking for."Town Councilman Jim Murnane said he understood Clinton County legislator's perspective, and thought it would be beneficial to open up a dialogue with them."They're looking for growth," Murnane said. "Of course, I understand our point of view as well. They weren't very complimentary about Cape Air's service. They weren't, by any means, too impressed with Charter Air. They didn't want to get stuck with them. They wanted the opportunity for growth."But Miller said Cape Air has offered to fly larger airplanes if the demand is ever there."According to what I've heard, they don't very often get more than nine people flying out of Plattsburgh to go to Boston," Miller said. "So why would you want a 15 seat airplane if you only have eight or nine people?"When asked by the board, Ross Dubarry, the manager of Adirondack Regional Airport, said he didn't think a fear of flying in a small plane, such as those Cape Air provides, was much of a customer disincentive."There are definitely people who have a fear of flying," Dubarry said. "With those particular individuals, that fear increases with the decrease in the size of the aircraft. In my estimation that's a very small percentage of the flying public."Town Councilman Ronald B. Keough said he believed that without its greater share of Canadian customers, Plattsburgh International Airport would not receive as much business as Adirondack Regional Airport.

City receives millions for project

2009-12-03T08:36:00.001-08:00

By Patricia Fifield
The City of Plattsburgh has received $4.7 million from federal stimulus money to safely cap a landfill in the town of Beekmantown.
Funding for the project came from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation. The project will seal the solid waste Akey landfill, located on Akey Road, in a safe and environmentally conscious manner. The landfill was closed in 1977 and was covered with sand and topsoil.
Mayor Donald Kasprzak said the city followed Department of Environmental Conservation guidelines in the 70s when sealing the landfill, but years later the DEC required updated procedures. The city was not able to address the new closure plan for financial reasons.
“Upon being elected mayor in 2007, I felt a responsibility to pursue the landfill closure,” said Kasprzak.
The Mayor said he met with DEC officials and was working with Governor Paterson to find a plan to successfully update the closure of the landfill. Out of the $4.7 million for the project, $2.7 million was provided to the city as a non-repayment grant. Kasprzak said the remaining portion will be payable over a 15 year period with no interest for the first three years and a low interest rate for the remainder.
“The $2.7 million does not have to be repaid and the savings from the remaining portion of the funding over 15 years from the EFC will amount to several hundred of thousands of dollars,” said Kasprzak.

The project is not only important to taxpayers, but also necessary to protect local groundwater.
Environmental Manager Jonathan Ruff said “Despite becoming overgrown and looking more like a forest than an old landfill, leachate was produced as rain and groundwater traveled through the old trash.”
Leachate is contaminated water that is created when rainwater comes into contact with waste materials on the area of the landfill. In older landfills, like the 30 acre Akey landfill, leachate can seep directly into the groundwater.
“There are low levels of different contaminants in the leachate plus enough iron to give it an orange coloring,” said Ruff.
New DEC regulations include an impermeable membrane liner and a groundwater interceptor trench, which will reduce leachate. The membrane liner will prevent rainwater from leaking through the landfill, which in turn will protect groundwater.
“The main expected environmental benefit is that the leachate production will be significantly reduced because the groundwater will be intercepted by the trench and rainwater will not be able to percolate through the membrane,” said Ruff.
In a press release New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Board Chairman Pete Grannis said, “When completed, the Plattsburgh landfill closure project will be more protective of the region’s natural resources and accomplished with financing that reduces the burden on local taxpayers.”
Mary Stetson of Akey Road said she was never concerned about the landfill. “I’ve never even heard of leachate,” she said.
Stetson is excited that the city will be upgrading the closure of the site with environmentally safer regulations. “Anything that can protect our health and our wallets will be helpful to everyone,” she said.
The Akey landfill project is one of seven clean water projects in the North Country region. The project is expected to be completed in November 2010 and could launch several jobs to the area.

Will Medicare cuts fund health care reform?

2009-12-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

By Renee Cumm
A plan geared for health reform could be cutting Medicare spending by $500 billion causing many local senior citizens to be without care. Local hospitals and nursing homes will also be affected in their inability to afford to take on, an estimated, 30 million more people insured by Medicaid, according to the Washington Post.
The $848 billion health care reform bill was unveiled by Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid last week and it would be funded by cuts through Medicare provider payments and taxes placed on expensive health plans.
The article stated that the cuts could cost hospitals and nursing homes so much money that they will be unable to afford to take Medicaid recipients and stop accepting Medicare entirely.
“I live on my social security,” Ruth Zierinski said.
Zierinski is a resident at the Victoria House. The house is somewhat different than a nursing home, because many of its residence self-pay.
Zierinski, retired after working for 28. She said she was forced to go on social security and decided against living with any family members.
“I worked until I couldn’t work anymore,” she said.
Zierinski depends heavily on her social security and does not want to ask family for help. Her only resources come from her Medicare, Medicaid and her SSI check.
“You don’t want your children to have you as a burden,” she said. “The day I get kicked out of here, I will be very destitute”.
Zierinski said it is unfair that money is being cut through Medicare and that benefits could be lost because of it.
“They should have never been able to touch it,” she said. “You don’t go after the old people, the young who are struggling or the middle class. You start at the top, in the big corporations, where the big money is,” she said.
Zierinski may not be kicked out of her home, but the Victoria house does not profit by accepting citizens that do not self-pay, the proprietor of the house, Patty Fuller said. She said that the plan to decrease Medicare spending does not directly affect residence within the home. However, it is not very affordable for her to accept payment from residents, who rely on only their SSI check.
“Nobody can run a house on what they pay now for SSI, it’s less than half of what a self-paid resident would pay,” Fuller said.
A Cable News Network or CNN site that deals with global fortune and money issues stated that the Social Security’s Cost of living increase will not be in effect for 2010. The cost of living quota usually goes up every year for SSI beneficiaries.
The affect on beneficiaries from the loss of COLA is minor with a difference of only about $12 to $15 in benefits Fuller said.
“The cost of living is not going up and they have raised room and board rates in adult homes,” Brian Ruede, the administrator at Evergreen Valley Nursing Home, said.

Ruede said that the decrease in Medicare funding would mainly affect nursing homes and not adult homes like the Victoria House. He said the affects would be primarily in the expenses. The decrease in Medicare earnings will make it hard to balance the home’s expenses, and a lesser revenue coming in from Medicare and Medicaid. When a home has developed a currency system, any change in the system could cause problems.
“It doesn’t really affect the residence, but nursing homes depend on the government to keep us operating, even if we annually increased our room and board rates, it would be very hard to off-set any loss,” Ruede said.
He said that Medicare accounts for 90 percent of the number of billable days at Evergreen Valley. It is a bulk of the revenue. He said that many nursing homes, including Evergreen Valley, hold a very small percent of private residents who self-pay.
“If we are getting less reimbursements’ from Medicare, then we will have to cut corners,” a financial councilor at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital said.
Medicare accounts for only 68 percent of what private insurers pay for equal services, according to American Hospital Association in a recent study entitled, “Trends Affecting Hospitals and Health Care Systems”.
“There's no doubt that our health care needs some reform the trouble is, which way should we take to the reform. Liberals in congress want to centralize decision making in Washington, letting politicians and bureaucrats decide what’s right for you,” Nina Owcharenko, deputy director of health care policy studies, said.
Owcharenko, spoke out on a U-Tube broadcast entitled, “Health care; At What Cost”, on behalf of a project created by, The Heritage Foundation. The project, Fix Health Care Policy, is focused on the Health Care Reform agenda under the slogan, “A dose of reality, fact checking the white house”.
The reform bill has proposed unfinanced mandates by the state, based on a recent study provided by, the FHCP project. The study showed that states would be mandated to pay an addition $25 billion in Medicaid expenditures. The bill could become so unaffordable to employers, by being forced to pay $28 billion in taxes, if they do not provide health plans approved by the government.
Section 9001 of the bill stated: “Excise tax on high cost employer-sponsored health coverage”.
The tax will cause employees to lose their employer coverage and they could be forced to receive care from the government. Five million Americans would lose their employee based coverage and 24 million people will be without coverage, according to the study.
“A better approach would allow individuals and families to decide what health care is best for them, some in congress want to create a one size fits all health care system for all Americans, a better approach would allow the states to design health care systems that best meet the needs of their citizens”, Owcharenko said.

Beekmantown to modify after-prom party

2009-12-03T08:06:00.000-08:00

By Leah Reid Breyette
The Prom Committee at Beekmantown Central School has decided upon a few changes to their annual after-prom party in May. The after-prom party, which was first held in 2007, is a fun and safe way for students who want to continue their fun after the prom is over. The party, which is held at the school, is an alternative to attending an after-prom party at a residence involving drinking and other unsafe behavior. Teacher Kathy Fuller says the after-prom party has a lot to offer, and now that some changes are under way, the students’ experiences will hopefully be more memorable than ever before.
“There is something for everyone to enjoy at the party. We have everything from a bouncy house to free massages. This year, we are planning on offering even more fun activities, such as a human sticky wall and a bungee-trampoline. These are activities that students wouldn’t normally do, which make them even more enjoyable.”
However, the fun doesn’t stop at the new activities. The school is also increasing the amount of prizes and giveaways that students are automatically signed up for, just by attending the party. According to parent Sheila Bull, the prizes should be enough incentive for every student to attend.”We usually have about 25 drawings throughout the evening, but this year, we’re hoping to bring that number to about 35. We give away big-ticket items, like iPods and gift certificates. We’ve also given away a car every year, which will hopefully happen this year, too. We really want every student to attend, and these giveaways definitely help with the number that do.”
The amount of activities and prizes on the rise for this year’s party calls for a greater number amount of funds and volunteers, but according to parent Lacy Rivers, finding these will not be difficult.
“Most of the funding for this party is done by community donation. The amount of money most of our community members donate to this was surprising to me at first, but I guess it’s because they care about the safety of our kids just as much as we do. Last year, we raised the majority of our money just by donations.”
Teacher Linda DiStefano adds that finding volunteers to help host the party is never a difficult task, either.
“We have parents and siblings of students of all ages helping us out each year. Some of these parents have students that graduated years ago from this school, and they still volunteer their time at the parties- we just see it as their way of giving back and saying thank you for giving these kids such a great opportunity, and we greatly appreciate all they help they give us.”
The after-prom party is always a big hit and attracts most of the students attending prom each year. Senior Kelsey Barnes attended both the prom and after-prom party last year, and says she would love to go again this year. “The after-prom party was so much fun last year, and this year’s sounds even better. When I went, almost every single person in my grade was there, along with their dates. I won a hundred bucks in a drawing just for being there. I can’t see why any student here would want to go out and drink after prom when they can stay here, have a blast, and probably go home with a cool prize on top of that.”
Planning of the after-prom party this year is still in progress, and will continue to be put together during the committee’s monthly meetings. The final plans are anticipated to be done about a month before the prom itself. The committee meetings are open to the public.

Programs 'retrain' to healthy eating

2009-12-03T07:59:00.000-08:00

By Lindsay Blair
Today's youth are far more likely to be found in front of the television or the computer screen, or at a fast food spot, than they are elevating their heart rates in sport or exercise. The rate of obesity in US youngsters has doubled in the last 20 years, according to the US centre for disease control.
Health and fitness facilities in Plattsburgh offer facilities which encourage a healthy lifestyle, but a report on obesity statistics shows that 56.7 percent of adults and 13.2 percent of children aged between two and four in Clinton County are overweight. According to the statistics recorded from 2004 to 2006, 72 percent of infants before the age of two are obese. The report, Obesity Statistics and Prevention Activities in Clinton County, released by the New York State Department of Health compares the rates of obesity of adults and children with the lifestyles led. The report outlines the differences in lifestyle and how these factors can contribute to weight problems in adults and children.
A healthy lifestyle is down to personal choice, dietician at Plattsburgh State, Jeff Vallee said. He said that it is difficult to regulate what people are eating, especially in a college environment where there is so much choice. He said that often the people who come to college are not used to putting a meal together for themselves with the right amount of servings and the most suitable sized portions and therefore it is often the case that people overeat on foods that are not the healthiest options.
Vallee, who is an aide to the students at PSUC and holds seminars to advise about nutrition said, “We have our healthy dining hall, Algonquin which has everything baked, and then in Clinton dining hall foods are fried. You still have your healthy options, you have your whole wheat pizza, salad bar and wrap station and stuff like that,” he said, “So you still have healthy options in there but what I see is people, there is no one regulating them, they need to have responsibility to say that they won’t eat a hot dog every day.”
“When people think of unhealthy they always think of overweight, but a lot of people who are underweight, there are a lot of health concerns there too.”
In lower level schools the regulation of food is largely down to the school dining facilities. School nutrition is regulated from New York State and down to the separate school districts. Plattsburgh School District has enforced regulations in its dining halls in schools to try and make children more aware of healthy eating options from an early age.
Charlene O’Connor, School Lunch Manager of the Plattsburgh School District said, “They (children) learn habits (of eating unhealthily) and we try to make them more aware and to teach them to choose wisely,” she said.
“Kids aren’t thinking the same way as adults do and so they think it’s OK to eat sugary and fatty foods all the time. We are trying to change that behavior so that obesity rates will eventually drop,” O’Connor said.
Programs and initiatives have been put in place across the board of education before college level to encourage children and young adults to develop healthier eating habits. Portions of available foods and drinks have been cut from two to one, more fresh fruit, vegetables and whole wheat foods are offered and less high-sugar snacks such as brownies and cookies.
O’Connor said that the school is trying to “retrain” the children to choose something healthier. This is being done by placing healthy options in plain view and by placing things like apples and healthy snacks in front of less healthy alternatives.
“Kids would rather have a brownie than an apple, we are trying to retrain them,” she said.

City votes to continue fluoridation

2009-12-03T07:47:00.000-08:00

By Amanda Smith
On Thursday, Nov 19, the long-awaited decision of whether or not to continue the fluoridation of water in the city of Plattsburgh was made. Four out of two city council members chose to prolong the fluoridation of the city’s water. The decision has many residents concerned about those residents who may be harmed due to too much fluoride.
Eleven months ago, City Council member Michael Kelly, in charge of Ward II, asked to take a look at the issue of the fluoridation of water in the city. The issue was intensely debated upon until the night of Nov 19 when the city council came to their decision.
Thursday night’s city council meeting was tense as residents apposing the issue said their piece. Former city council member, Bill Provost gave a speech in which he thanked SUNY Plattsburgh Anthropology Professor, Dr. Richard Robbins, and the Press Republican for accurately reporting the meetings.
Handouts from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and other sources, which lacked evidence opposing the fluoridation of the city’s water, were provided. When asked why this was, City Council member James Calnon said, “We’ve seen the other side of the story for some time now...and who am I to question [the experts]?”
According to the CDC, fluoridation was started in Michigan in 1945 and has successfully assisted our country’s health for more than fifty years.
Mayor Donald Kasprzak said he felt the city council’s decision was the right one. There was no overwhelming or compelling evidence to convince him that fluoride is harmful. There weren’t many residents supporting “the fluoride side” for undisclosed reasons, he said.
“Only one part per million, much below the maximum CDC recommendation will be used,” Kasprzak said. “There aren’t enough facts to support [the argument that fluoride is harmful.]”
It isn’t a matter of the benefits fluoride serves, but a matter of safety said concerned resident Doug Butdorf.
“Fluoridation is not proven to be safe,” Butdorf said.
SUNY Plattsburgh professor, Dr. Richard Robbins argument from the meeting explained why fluoride should not be used in water.
“We all likely have in our bodies traces of anywhere from 40 to 80 toxic chemicals, including dioxins, almost all of which have never been tested for their effect on the human body,” he said. “More seriously, there is virtually no research on the effect of combining those chemicals or at what rate they build up in the body. There is, of course, nothing on how their impact varies by the age, weight, gender, health, or pharmacological status of the person.”
Shelley Fracalossi, former SUNY professor and Plattsburgh resident, felt her democratic government had failed her and other residents of her city.
“[The council] wants to do the same thing they’ve always done and are afraid to do anything different because of public outcry,” Fracalossi said. “The decision was probably made on who talks the loudest; no one speaks for science.”
Fracalossi said if her government fails her on such a small scale, then she’s worried what other things the government can change.
“I don’t know what else we can do,” she said.
The subject can be brought in front of the council once again in 2010 to be overturned if any residents strongly oppose the city council’s decision.

Retailers brace for Black Friday rush

2009-11-25T07:10:00.000-08:00

By Mathias Kamin
The holiday season is fast approaching here in the North Country and already the shopping centers are bracing for the annual onslaught of shoppers, coupon clippers and die-hard bargain-finders. The Champlain Centres Mall normally opens at 9:30a.m. most Fridays, but this Friday, Black Friday, it will open at 6am. The JC Penny store in the mall will be opening at 4am.
Early hours have become an annual event at many stores around the country in the past few decades. Shoppers form cues that can be up to a ¼ mile long waiting to gain access to the heavily marked down merchandise.
Most shoppers read about the deals and promotions for stores through the paper, but the Champlain Centre mall has been using a different tactic to educate potential consumers of sales at their stores. Stefanie Pert a marketing intern with the mall and senior at Plattsburgh State explains the program.
“We use the PA here in the mall the week before black Friday to announce to window shoppers which sales are happening at which stores on that day.” This way she says, in conjunction with the normal ads in the paper, shoppers can better locate and purchase the goods they are going to buy.
Joan LaPier, the marketing director of the Champlain centre mall expects the mall here in Plattsburgh to be very full on this black Friday. “We draw from a 90 mile radius, and we have a Target store and no other town in Vermont or the North Country has one, so that’s a big pull.”
The Target store in the Champlain centre mall has only been open for a year and a month and has been quite the popular destination for area and international shoppers.
John Jacques, of Montreal, Québec explains his recent shopping trip into the states. “I won’t be coming down here on black Friday, but I will be back down to the Target to do some more holiday shopping.” Jacques was only down here this past Sunday to shop for the day, but he quipped about his return in the next few weeks as a vacation where he will spend the weekend in town taking advantage of the holiday sales.
Many other Canadians come to Plattsburgh to do their shopping and unlike Jacques a good amount will be here on Black Friday. The currency exchange in the Centre mall is the first stop for most of these Canadians.
“We’ll open about three hours earlier than normal on Black Friday” said Sharron Morse, who works as a teller at the exchange.
Her coworker Hollie Davis said that they “expect to exchange tens of thousands of dollars next Friday, that’s many more times than the average amount for a normal Friday.”
“I think with the Canadian dollar being so strong against the dollar that we will see an increase over last year.”, said Davis.
Students and temporary workers also get a boom because of the holiday season. Jeremy Mathsen, a student at PSUC, just started his job as a toy salesman at the Toys For All kiosk in the mall. “People won’t but this stuff all year, so if they’re going to buy it now, I’ll take the job.”
With all these eager shoppers it is easy to imagine that things can get out of control. Tina Martineau who works at the information Kiosk in the mall recounts an unpleasant episode during a Black Friday excursion her and her mother took a few years back.
“I was inside the store standing in the toy section waiting for the worker to remove a tape barrier when a woman jumped over a shopping cart and landed on my shoulder. All I heard was boom boom bang. I guess she was trying to get a cabbage patch doll, well I got my mother and we left. There’s no security in there, and way too many people, so I don’t shop at the Plattsburgh Wal-Mart anymore. I go to the one in Malone.”
Every year stores have been taking more and more precautions to ensure the safety of their patrons, but not without incident. Last year, Jdimytai Damour, a Wal-Mart security guard in Mineola, NY was trampled to death by a stampede of shoppers during last year’s Black Friday. Authorities say Damour was asphyxiated.

'Differently-abled' in the North Country

2009-11-24T11:40:00.001-08:00

By Emmalie Vance
At the age of 17, Chelsea Scheefer went snowboarding in Tupper Lake with some friends. Coming off of a jump, she landed on her neck with the weight of the rest of her body, which was enough to break two vertebras in her back.
“Right away I couldn’t feel my legs,” Scheefer said. “I tried to get up and I couldn’t move. I went to grab my legs and they felt really swollen just like when you get anesthesia at the dentist and your mouth feels huge.”
From that moment on, Scheefer’s life went in a slightly different direction, adding her name to nearly 50 million others in the United States alone who have a disability, according to the 2000 US Census 2000. She said she isn’t disabled, she’s “differently-abled” because she does things that everyone else does, just differently. However, those minor differences require her to enlist the help of assistive technology such as a titanium wheelchair, a lift to help her ascend stairs and hand controls for her car.
Adaptable technology necessary for the disabled to complete everyday tasks sometimes comes with a steeper price tag than an individual can afford. Along with the issue of money, there is also the confusion of where to buy, the application process and the time it takes to get the initial approval, a replacement, or a repair.
In the Plattsburgh area, the North Country Center for Independence (NCCI) is a place to start for disabled people and their families who may have a long list of questions regarding adaptive technology.
“For a person who contacts us telling us about their need, we could give them advice on what would be the proper piece of technology,” said Robert Poulin, systems director at NCCI. “We could then help them find various funding streams if that were something that would be required, but we would not provide funding for purchasing equipment like that.”
NCCI is also available to give suggestions about where to go and help with the application process for funding programs. Medicaid, Medicare, and New York’s Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) are three optional programs.
“We have consultants we hire to do an assessment of the person’s needs and whether or not there is a piece of technology, machinery or science that will help them be able to overcome that barrier to them being employed. We basically take that and try to find a way for them to obtain that material,” said Daniel Roberts, senior counselor with the Adult Vocational Rehabilitation Services at VESID.
With help from programs like VESID, payment for some pieces of equipment may be largely or completely taken care of, depending on the person’s financial status, which is reviewed by a counselor such as Roberts.
Typically, he said, if the applicant is working or has a job offer, that business would take responsibility for payment of the piece of technology the person needs. If they prove they’re not economically stable to do so, VESID would then review the applicant’s financial situation. If they are on public assistance, VESID would pay for everything, if they have a couple thousand dollars, they would be expected to pay that and VESID would pick up the remaining costs.
“Usually it feels a lot easier getting the equipment initially and it feels like it’s a lot more work and requires a lot more patience to get an upgrade. You always need an upgrade,” Poulin said.
Scheefer, who is also one of Poulin’s coworkers at NCCI, knows all about the headaches of getting repairs and replacements for her wheelchair.
“‘Prior authorization’ is the key word,” Scheefer said. “If you’re taking too much medication, [insurances] want prior authorization as to why that is, you need to justify it, and the same thing with medical equipment. It’s craziness.”
For example, Scheefer’s most recent issue was a stuck caster on the front of her wheelchair, which forced her to do wheelies to be able to move around. The paperwork and phone calls to get the replacement caster lasted several months, after which Scheefer’s fiancée ended up buying her a $400 chair online to last her until she got what she needed.
North Country Kids is an “Early Intervention and Preschool agency,” according to their website, www.nckidsinc.com. “We offer the earliest possible intervention and support for infants, toddlers and preschool children (birth to five years of age) who have difficulties in the areas of speech, cognitive, behavior, social emotional or gross and fine motor development.”
Kelly McCauley, a pathologist at North Country Kids, described one of the pieces of equipment they use to develop social skills, called a Dynavox: “It’s like a computer program. If you touch three pictures in a row it will sequence them and repeat the whole sentence. If you push on the button for kitchen, that will open up to a screen that has 10 other buttons. You could push on social things during mealtime where another page would open up to a bunch of fruit if you wanted to request a fruit.”
This piece of technology is usually around $5,000 and a written justification for the family of the child to purchase it is required.
“Basically you get a trial device for a month after a big justification of why the child needs the device,” McCauley said. “After the trial is over, then you have to write another report justifying why the family would need to purchase the device. At $5,000 you really need to justify it as something they really need.”
Transitions such as Scheefer’s from abled to “differently-abled”, at any age, presents one important question: Who can I turn to for help?
“Connect with other people who have disabilities,” said Scheefer. “Go online and visit organizations that support or provide services or do research on the disability that you have. It’s all part of defining who you are and if you deny that you have anything going on with you or if you close yourself off, it’s going to be hard to tell people what you need and to get what you need.”

Plattsburgh natives relocate due to few jobs

2009-11-24T11:33:00.001-08:00

By Amanda Smith
Little incentive from the Town of Plattsburgh has caused its public to leave their native rural area. Due to limited employment opportunities and low pay, much of Plattsburgh’s populace is flocking to urban areas. Although the town’s goals include increasing job openings and attractiveness, many continue to part ways with their hometown. An article featured in Newsweek about rural America’s bleak future as a result of a decline in population for various reasons, also known as the “rural brain drain,” is similar to Plattsburgh’s crisis. The article tells about a small county in Kansas that enticed populations to come back to the area by offering free land to those who could be preapproved by a bank and start building within one year, but such a program cannot exist in Plattsburgh. “There are too few available vacant building lots within the existing city limits to make such an enticement program feasible,” said Jim Bailey, city historian. “I think you'll find that municipal leaders at all local levels are focusing on increasing job opportunities rather than home sites in order to increase populations.” The town continues to come up with beneficial goals to support itself despite a declining population. Phil Von Bargen, Town of Plattsburgh’s Planning Dept. Director, helps to come up with those goals as well as keep tabs on the town’s population trends. The town is made up of nearly 12,000 people, excluding the city, he said. According to the town’s 1999 Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the town “took a hit,” as Von Bargen put it, in 1995 due to the closure of the Air Force Base. Since then, the population has been steadily increasing about 3% each year, but that isn’t what the Comprehensive Land Use Plan projected. In 1999, the town predicted that the population would be nearly 13,000 by 2010, a thousand people short of today’s estimate. NYC’s five boroughs haven’t had as much of a problem as a small town like Plattsburgh; NYC has seen a 4.4% increase from 2000 to 2008, according to the US Census Bureau. In addition to having less of a population than expected, jobs in the area have been scarce as well. The closure of the Air Force Base has most likely contributed to this as well, but because the base isn’t zoned for residential living, it has the potential to create jobs. The population will go where there’s more industrialization because there are more jobs available, Von Bargen said. The City of Plattsburgh has no more space to further develop; the Town of Plattsburgh has nearly 70% of its land waiting to be commercially developed. Until the base is more industrialized, will employment increase. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinton County’s current unemployment rate is 9% which is slightly above the state average of 8.8%. However, Albany County and NYC, including Bronx, Kings, Queens, New York and Richmond counties, are either below or in-between the state average and Clinton County’s unemployment rate, except for Bronx County which has a rate of 13.3%. Dir. of Admissions at SUNY Plattsburgh, Rich Higgins has seen students move away for many reasons, usually in search of better job opportunities. A variety of jobs are offered in urban areas like Albany, making them more enticing than rural areas to students, he said. “If someone wants to come back here, it (the job) has to be relevant to the area,” he said. “If they are encouraged, they’ll come back.” But many aren’t being encouraged. A number of majors that were thought to do well in the area like criminal justice aren’t making enough money and have limited positions available which requires an out of area move and leaves little incentive to stay in rural Plattsburgh.
In her twenty years of working at Clinton County Community College, associate dean of institutional research and planning, Rita Ward-Slater said the school is at an all-time high for full-time students.
“When there are no jobs, people go to school in hopes of something better; you can live on loans,” she said.
Research done by the college shows that only 20% of students pursuing the Associate in Applied Sciences degree graduated in the 2006 Fall semester; the degree was designed to help students begin education for employment in a particular career.
In an e-mail concerning college statistics sent by Ward-Slater, of 118 grads 34% of students found jobs soon after graduating, 26% changed colleges and 4% were unemployed, but there were also a high number of students’ whereabouts unknown. Those students’ whose whereabouts are unknown as well as those who found jobs within 6 months of graduating may very-well have moved away to urban centers. Ward-Slater thinks about 2/3 of grads are staying in area depending on whether or not they find work in the field.
One career option that is making money straight out of community college, is nursing. This profession makes more than most teachers, who spend more money to go to college to get their degree. The only problem with it is the job can be done anywhere meaning it is not exclusive to the Plattsburgh area. So what kinds of jobs can local high school grads acquire in the area and are they able to take them?
“It’s hard to send a kid away to school [in these times,]” Alan Seazelle, Plattsburgh High School counselor said. “More kids are staying in state during the bad economy.”
Seazelle made a point to say that it’s “very seldom” that kids don’t go to college. Newsweek’s brain drain article mentioned that “small towns traditionally put all their efforts behind smart students, pushing them out into four-year universities.” About 65% of students goes to four-year colleges, 25% go to two-year colleges and the rest either go out into the workforce or the military; the drop-out rate is low as well, Seazelle said.
There is incentive within the high schools though. Students with an average of 90 or higher receive free tuition to a community college or SUNY Plattsburgh.
Kristina Moquin, mental health counselor at SUNY Plattsburgh and Plattsburgh High student, was one of the few Plattsburgh natives that decided to stay local. Although she applied to schools outside the state, SUNY Plattsburgh was the best fit financially. Even though she was fortunate enough to find a well-paying job in the area, many of the high school friends she went to college with have moved away.
“Every single one of my friends have moved away to find jobs,” she said.
Other friends she knew from high school that live in the area are now corrections officers, teachers, police or work in the medical field.

Is that food allergy or simply intolerance?

2009-11-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

By Aurora O’Geen
As the seasons change, it’s easy to spot a person with seasonal allergy symptoms. The sneezing, congestion, and itchy-eyes are clear signs of the allergies. For people dealing with a food allergy, its not as simple as taking an over the counter drug to ease their symptoms, in fact food allergies can be extremely painful and even fatal. Today, more and more people are reporting food allergies- symptoms which may be mistaken for food intolerance. The symptoms of food allergies in comparison with food intolerance were recently reviewed in an article in MSNBC. Common misconceptions of what a food allergy actually entails may lead to a misdiagnosis if not treated properly.
Food intolerance can lead to nausea, indigestion, skin rashes, and trouble breathing- common misconceptions for an allergy. The key difference however, is that food intolerance, although uncomfortable to deal with, is not seriously dangerous because it does not directly deal with the individual’s immune system.
A food allergy does affect the immune system directly. When a substance is ingested which the individual is allergic to, it triggers the immune system to go into overdrive causing serious reactions which can be fatal. Symptoms of food allergies include swelling of the mouth and airway, hives, dizziness, and fainting are also common. Of course depending on the individual the reaction can differ- a highly sensitive allergy can be triggered by even the smallest amount of food. Similarly, the timing of the reaction can also differ for each individual. A reaction can occur up to two hours after ingesting the food; on the other hand a person could show immediate signs of a reaction after eating. The key to dealing with food allergies seems clear- avoidance. But the problem is that people aren’t always aware of what they’re actually consuming. A person dealing with a food allergy not only needs to be aware of what they’re consuming, but also where the product was made. Cross-contamination is common with food allergies. For example, a person with a severe reaction to peanuts should also pay attention to foods which may be processed in the same location as the nuts. The smallest amount, though accidental, could trigger a severe reaction. Dr. JoAnn Gleeson-Kreig, associate professor of nursing at SUNY Plattsburgh, explains that a food allergy can be serious without even ingesting the food. Fruit used in many hair products such as shampoo could trigger a skin reaction which can be just as serious.
Jake Dumas recalls a classmate who dealt with their food allergy on a daily basis. In elementary school a classmate had a severe allergy to peanuts. “In the beginning of the year our teacher explained the student’s situation and asked all students to understand her request for no peanut products in the classroom, as a way of making it a safe environment for everyone”. The student themselves also had a greater responsibility to pay attention to what they were consuming and make sure their food didn’t come in contact with anyone else.
Today, more and more districts are banning peanut butter to be served by schools in the cafeteria as a precaution. Other schools are providing “peanut free” tables for students with severe reactions. Along with peanuts, the most common food allergies among children are eggs, and milk. Adults are commonly allergic to shellfish. Lauren Kocienski discovered she was allergic to seafood in her late teen years. After ingesting shrimp on a vacation, Kocienski experienced painful indigestion, dizziness, hives, and a difficulty breathing. She was later diagnosed with an allergy to seafood and now makes sure to avoid it at all times. “I was shocked because I’d never had any prior allergies, it was really out of the blue”, says Kocienski. Assistant Professor of Nursing and Nutrition at SUNY Plattsburgh, Jorunn Gran-Henriksen, says that as much as 1/3 of all adults believe they have a food allergy. Of that amount only 1-2% of them have been diagnosed with a true food allergy. The rate for children is between 4-6%. With the growing rates of people dealing with food allergies, thankfully there are plenty of healthy and safe alternatives. Jerimy Blowers, director of health education services at SUNY Plattsburgh, explains one of the benefits of allergy research- “The good news is that the awareness of allergies has created a larger food market (for example, gluten-free products) not widely available even a decade ago”.
Surprisingly, an individual can discover a new food allergy at anytime. They can also outgrow an allergy from childhood to adulthood- for reasons which are still for the most part unknown. When it comes to food allergies there is no cure, but with the proper care and education, it is possible to live a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Tourism down worldwide yet up in New York

2009-11-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

By Cassandra Morrissey
The Adirondack Park is a natural land mass which sprawls across New York State for over nine thousand miles. The park, which was originally created in 1882 to help guarantee public land will be ‘forever wild’, creates a unique setting in the heart of New York State. The wide variety of recreational activities, beautiful scenery, and natural beauty makes the Adirondacks a natural tourist attraction. Although the recent economy has caused the majority of tourist attractions to suffer, the Adirondack Park is flourishing.
According to the World Tourism Barometer, tourism is down nearly 8 percent this year, forcing regions to cope with less money and jobs. New York has gone against this trend, and seen a nine percent increase in tourism since 2007. Many of the visitors travel to the Adirondack region, looking for a refreshing retreat. Each year, over 10 million people journey to the region spending over $1 billion. They come from all over the world, supporting jobs, contributing millions of dollars in taxes, and influencing land development. According to Global Travel Industry News, the economy is still pushing people to travel, but by different methods. Driving to tourist attractions has become more popular because it’s cheaper and people find it safer.
Michele Powers, Vice President of marketing at the Chamber of Commerce credits this trend to the regions high attraction, primarily due to its ideal location.
“The Adirondacks in particular are doing well with the down economy because we are a drive-in market. People are used to driving to visit, so it hasn’t really changed. People are willing to drive for an affordable stay, which is what they get here,” Powers said.
Another important aspect helping tourism in the Adirondacks is the overall cost of a day trip to the region. When tourists come to the Adirondacks, they looking for an inexpensive getaway from their daily routine; and they often find what they are looking for. Based on Travelocity.com, staying in a hotel in the Adirondacks is nearly half as expensive as in major cities, such as New York or Boston. Nancy Church, chair of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at Plattsburgh State, recognizes the trend.
“After 9/11, people thought travel was down, but it wasn’t. Even when the recession hit, people were still travelling. They realized it’s easier and cheaper to stay closer and do a weekend trip or a day trip, instead of going far away,” Church said.
Although cheap getaways are the most popular way to visit, the unique location of the Adirondacks offers visitors multiple choices in recreation. Whether it’s sailing down Lake Champlain on a private boat or visiting Lake Placid, travelers can choose from a number of different types of escapes. Beverly Jackson in particular enjoys the wilderness aspect of the region.
“It’s nice knowing you have your own space, and people aren’t living right on top of you, it’s peaceful,” Jackson said.
Ron Ofner, Executive Director of the Adirondack regional tourism council, also recognizes the Adirondacks attraction to tourist.
“ People like it here because you can be out in the wilderness for an entire day, but still come back at night and go to a great dinner, or stay in a four star hotel. Tourists want that, and the region provides that to people,” Ofner said.
The ability to drive into the region and inexpensive cost boosts the attraction for the Adirondacks, but a main factor drawing people to the region is the overall quality of life. Within miles of each other, people go to work, visit Olympic arenas, hike mountains, or enjoy their families. According to Keith McKeever, Public Information officer for the New York Park Agency, it’s an all encompassing park.
“What’s unique about the park is that it’s a people park. It’s a place where people come to play, live, and work,” McKeever said.
“It’s the mountains, lakes, hiking trails, and the beautiful scenery that entices people to come to our region. People give up jobs to begin life here, it’s just a win-win location,” Powers said.
There are currently over 130 thousand people that live in the Adirondacks year round. The number is expected to increase drastically in the near future. Some people believe it’s because miles of land is undeveloped, people are seeking a return to a less developed, greener lifestyle. This lifestyle may seem to be in reach within the park. While others, think it’s because of the honest, hard working people that live in the Adirondacks. Although, people like Jackson simply believe it’s because of what the region offers.
“I love it here. I can’t imagine a day without looking out my back door and seeing the mountains and smelling the fresh air. It’s truly a beautiful place,” Jackson said.

Is fluoride a choice?

2009-11-24T10:52:00.000-08:00

By Kevin Stump
“I don’t want the government putting anything into my water, unless its scotch,” said a concerned community resident at the Plattsburgh City Common Council meeting last Thursday in regards to whether or not the city should continue to have fluoride in their water.
The decision to fluoridate public water rests with the city, although it is recommended by the Health Department it is not a government mandate. Nearly 70 percent of U.S. residents who get water from public systems have fluoridated water and it is considered to be a benefit to communities by major health institutions like the Center for Disease Control, Health Department, and the Surgeon General.
According to the Center for Disease Control, community water fluoridation is considered to be one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. In a report issued by the Center for Disease Control, for every $ 1 invested in the fluoridation of water, an average of $ 38 is saved in dental treatment costs per year. However, not everyone believes that fluoride should be a part of the public water, regardless of the claimed benefits.
“Fluoridation is as divisive as abortion, we have been socialized to believe it’s the right thing to do,” said Amy Valentine, City Councilor of Ward V.
Valentine started to research fluoride years ago and made a commitment with her family to decrease their use of it and have been encouraging others to do so ever since. Her resolution to cease the fluoridation of public drinking water in the city was denied Thursday evening at the city of Plattsburgh Common Council meeting in a two to four vote.
One of the points written up in Valentines resolution was questioning the ethics behind public fluoridation. “Because it is considered medication (over the counter drug), we are involuntarily drugging people without their consent. This is not common practice in the medical field,” said Valentine.
“The ethics behind the decision is an interesting concern,” said James Calnon, City Councilor of Ward IV who was one of the four that voted Valentines resolution down.
“I voted against the resolution because I am not an expert and need to trust the EPA, CDC, Health Department, and the last five Surgeon Generals,” said Calnon who said he isn’t qualified to make such a vote that would challenge the experts.
“The research that has been done is not terribly extensive and there is evidence that supports the fluoridation of public water can have harmful affects,” said Richard Robbins, SUNY Plattsburgh Anthropology professor and community resident who opposes the fluoridation of public water.
“I am sure it will come up again. Most other industrial countries in Europe don’t use it, and many communities like Burlington and Long Island have removed it (fluoride) from their public water system,” said Robbins.
Robbins understands that the councilors were not qualified to make the decision of whether or not fluoride should be taken out of the city water supply. “There are already 40 to 50 toxic chemicals in our body, there is not enough testing or research that study what the effect of combining toxic chemicals will have in the long term,” said Robbins
“I am always skeptical to just take the governments word for it,” said Greg Colucci, SUNY Plattsburgh senior and environmental science major. “What about lead being approved by the federal government and then years later it has been determined unsafe. People need to be cautious when it comes to mass injection of chemicals by the government,” said Colucci.
“I have no idea why people are so against it (putting fluoride in the public water system), it boggles my mind that professionals and experts can stand up against this,” said Susan Thew, senior public health sanitarian for Clinton County Health Department. “Fluoride is not a medication, it is a supplement. People are not being involuntarily drugged and it has proven to be effective throughout the country,” Thew said.

New home for Lyon Mountain firefighters

2009-11-24T10:41:00.000-08:00

By Zachery Lashway
The building the Lyon Mountain Fire Department has called home for decades will soon be vacant.
The District is responsible for approximately 2000 people and almost 500 homes that reside in Lyon Mountain, Standish, Chazy Lake, the upper Chateaugay Lake and Merrill will be getting a new home.
There are 30 volunteers on the roster at the fire department. There is one paramedic, three tech 600s, one tech 500 and four basic EMTs that make up the Lyon Mountain Fire Department.
The Chief of the Lyon Mountain Fire District, Billy Durnin says, “Things just don’t fit anymore. The equipment is now bigger than ever, you need the space and space is our biggest issue.”
“The wiring in the old building is antiquated, the electric system is disheveled, it burns between 50 to 70 gallons of fuel oil a day during the winter and the overhead doors are too small. It is cheaper to replace it, not repair it,” says, the Lyon Mountain Fire District Chairperson of Commissioners, Bob Weeks.
The new building is a $975 thousand category four steel building that is being built adjacent to the existing building. A category four steel structure is capable of housing people during a natural disaster. A garage made of steel would be a category one or two steel structure. This shows how immense and sturdy the new building is.
“The design of the new building is a box within a box design,” says Weeks.
According to Weeks the new building is much bigger than the old building, more practical and much more efficient.
“The new building has triple-pane windows in the overhead doors, closed cell foam insulation that is made from soybean and recycled soda bottles, a modern alarm system, a phone system with wireless capabilities, a 99 percent propane in-floor efficiency heating system, a self start generator and a dry sprinkler system. Everything is efficient. The new building will cost less to insure than the old building, 30 percent less,” says Weeks.
Durnin says the new building will have offices, privacy, place to shower in case of exposure and a weight room. The present building has one office, hardly any storage space, no shower or a weight room.
The community will benefit from the new building in various ways says Durnin and Weeks.
“Too many to count,” says, Weeks. “The overall cost for the building overtime will be much less than our existing one. It could be a command center in case of a natural disaster, it can sit up to 120 people at a given function and it is built to accommodate new equipment for the next 50 years.”
In addition to all the perks the new building has to offer, Weeks says, it is big enough to accommodate future growth while remaining fuel efficient and it has been built in half the cost of other fire department buildings in the area.
“If it doesn’t work in 50 years, why build it,” says Weeks.
The new building sounds like it is a much needed investment, however, not everyone within the Lyon Mountain Fire District agrees.
According to Weeks in September 2007 the motion to move forward with the project was voted on and passed unanimously five to nothing. In December 2007 people took to the polls, 184 people voted in favor of the new fire house while 102 individuals voted against the new building.
There are some people within the district think a new building was needed but the district went overboard in their budget. Other individuals thought the district should have just repaired the old building. Majority of all the people opposed to the new building think their taxes are going to sky rocket in the future. Individuals were willing to explain why they were against the new building, however, none were willing to give their name.
“People are against it because they lack information, they have been misinformed. But the lack of education is the biggest thing that hurts us,” says Weeks.
Durnin says people are against it because they do not believe it is justified.
“Some people are just negative. They are opposed to be opposed. Some are against it because they don’t know anything about the fire department. They are stagnant, negative, anti no matter what the situation is,” says Durnin. “Actually the cost of the new fire station will only cost the tax payer 40 cents on a $1000.”
On the flip side of things some people within the district are in favor for the new building.
Retired Chief of the Lyon Mountain Fire Department, Frank Woodward is in favor of the new building.
“I am for it. I assume the people in charge knew what they were doing. I think the people that are opposed to it are afraid of their taxes going up. But I do think building a new fire house will save the tax payers in the long run,” says Woodward.
Guy and Lana Facteau are retired, lifelong residents of Lyon Mountain. Both are also in favor of the new fire department building.
“I am for it because it is necessary. This community in particular is made up of 90 percent senior citizens. It’s imperative for them to have an effective service,” says Lana. “Some people don’t like change and that’s their problem, the building could have been fully paid for and they still wouldn’t have wanted it.”
Guy says he looks forward to having a new fire house.
“It’s going to be beneficial to the community in a lot of ways. It is going to be a great place to gather for community events, and town meetings.”
Both Weeks and Durnin says once the new building is completed and everything is moved from the old building into the new building there will be a public auction on anything that is worth money from the old building. The money generated from the auction will be used to tear the old building down.
“The demolition will be self supporting,” says Durnin.
According to Weeks the new building is expected to be completed in mid February.
“Communities evolve around schools, legions and fire departments so hopefully in the future the new Lyon Mountain Fire District building will generate community comrade and spirit,” says Durnin.

Kids improve life satisfaction for married couples

2009-11-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

By Jon Hochschartner
Bearing children boosts happiness among married couples, but not for those who haven't tied the knot, acording to a recent study by Dr. Luis Angeles from the University of Glasgow. His research, which was originally published in the Journal of Happiness Studies, has since garned much international publicity.
Locally, those in the North Country seemed to agree with his findings.
Alison Riley-Clark is a registered nurse and health teacher, as well as a married mother of three. She said having children improved her life satisfaction.
"I don’t know if it’s a biological drive or a psychosocial drive, but most people, after they get married, that I know, think about when they’re going to have children," she said.
When children are young, much of the joy of parenting comes from simply watching your kids develop, Riley-Clark said.
"It’s amazing to watch what happens with a baby from birth to age 1, and then you watch them develop a personality their own preferences their own interests, and you feel that you play a significant role in being a positive influence in their life," she said. "It's balanced by the recognition that you could also be a negative influence and that’s the stress of parenting."
As kids grow older, Riley-Clark said one of the biggest benefits of parenting comes from the unconditionally loving bond that forms between parent and child.
"The other part of it is that it’s a lot of fun to have a family and do activities together," she said. "It's a built in social group."
Jeff Earl, a married father of two, said having children boosted his life satisfaction, despite the immense challenges it presented.
"All of a sudden, I’m responsible for someone else who has no survival skills other than a heartbeat, respiration and a learning curve," Earl said. "It makes everything more real. It made me learn more about myself. I was forced to learn things about myself that I probably wouldn’t have learned any other way."
He said he didn't think it was possible to explain the bond formed between a parent and child at the moment of birth to someone who had not experienced it.
"It’s amazingly intense and it just flat out changes you," Earl said. "I love watching my kids grow up, and I love being with them. It’s not a negative thing; it’s just such an all encompassing thing."
Libby Doan, a married mother of two, said having children boosted her life satisfaction and brought new meaning to her life.
"For me, it brought a new dimension and an experience I'd never had before," Doan said. "It's been incredibly purposeful. When making decisions about someone else's life, it made me examine and really develop what I believe--like a value system. Because it's like you're always being watched. I like feeling responsible or playing a part in helping children have a good life experience."
Mike Tholen, a married father of two, seemed to agree.
"It improves your life satisfaction immensely," he said. "With your children, very quickly, all of a sudden you can’t imagine life without them. There are challenges to being a parent, but the things you get back are better because you go through those challenging times."

New hate crimes bill stirs controversy

2009-11-24T10:23:00.000-08:00

By Patricia Fifield
President Barack Obama signed a bill on Oct. 28 that extended federal hate crimes to protect those that are discriminated against because of gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This bill, entitled the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act in the honor of the two hate crime victims, is hearing cheers and jeers from religious leaders.
Unitarian Universalism (UU) is one religion that supports the new hate crimes bill and also has an accepting stance on gay marriage. President of the UU Fellowship of Plattsburgh, Jo Ellen Miano, said that their faith is built upon a set of principles. “We affirm and promote the inherent dignity and worth of every person. We affirm and promote justice, equity and compassion in human relations. We affirm and promote the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all,” she said. The principles of the UU Fellowship are embedded with equality for everyone, which would suggest they support those of different sexual orientations and gender identities.
Chair of the Social Action Committee, Michelle Ouellette, said that as a whole, the Unitarian Universalist church has a history of supporting civil rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals. Ouellette said the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) celebrated the passage of the hate crimes bill signed by President Obama. Reverend William Sinkford, president of the UUA said, " ... I assure you that Unitarian Universalists will continue to advocate for full rights for bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people. We stand on the side of love."
“In fact, more than a decade ago, in 1996, our denomination voted to advocate for marriage equity for same-sex couples,” said Ouellette. Currently the UU Fellowship of Plattsburgh is working with the social action committee to gain the status of a “Welcoming congregation.” To achieve this the church must provide religious education that incorporates LGBT life issues, welcome LGBT into the congregation, and establish contact with local LGBT groups and offer support for their cause. Ouellette said that they will be voting on the progression of these steps, but the support is great. “…My guess is that it will not be long before we gain full Welcoming Congregation status,” she said.
Although the UUA fully supports the new hate crimes bill including protection for LGBT, some religions do not. The Catholic Church usually tends to lean toward the side against homosexuality. When the hate crimes bill was passed, some feared that religious speech against homosexuality could be prosecuted as a hate crime. After several attempts to contact local Catholic churches the calls were never returned. “It doesn’t surprise me,” said Jamey Henricks of Plattsburgh, “they’re probably embarrassed to say what they really think,” he said. Henricks, a proud Gay and a humble Catholic, believes the Catholic Church does not want to admit their hatred for LGBT. “In my experience, most of the conservative ones really hate us,” he continued, “So I don’t see why they would support the hate crimes bill.”
Previous hate crimes laws allowed the Justice Department to prosecute crime motivated only by race, color, national origin, and religion. According to the FBI, there were 1,460 hate crime offenses based on sexual orientation in 2007, which is up from 1,415 in 2006.

2-year colleges ease financial burden, enrollment up

2009-11-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

By Renee Cumm
As the Universities in New York State raise the cost of tuition, students will prefer to attend 2-year colleges to get a cheaper start on their college degree. The enrollment rates in 2-year colleges have been increasing partly due to the tough economic times according to, local neighboring colleges.
“Family financial considerations are important”, president of Plattsburgh State University, Dr. John Ettling said, regarding college applicants. PSU maintains their enrollment on a fixed percentage by admitting less than half of the students who have completed an application according to, Ettling.
He said PSU still encourages community college transfer students and receive most of their transfers from Clinton Community College.
Students who transfer are more prepared and they “Have got the adolescent angst out of their system,” Ettling said.
Students can benefit from attending a 2- year college by saving money, and they can attend college while living at home with their parents, “Because of the national recession a college close to home costs less and students can still work,” Ettling said.
The cost of tuition at North Country Community College is $1,000 less than PSU and any student that lives within a 30 to 50 mile radius could commute from home, which is a common convenience for local students, according to vice president of student services, Ed Trathen.
President Obama signed a stimulus package into law last February. He appointed $787 billion to increase the federal support for job training programs at community colleges. The aide would help people who have been laid off or can’t find work. They can receive funds to attend 2-year colleges and receive work re-training and job placement. In an effort to reduce the rate of unemployment could cause the already increasing rate of enrollment at community colleges to escalate. Obama has planned for 5 million more 2-year graduates by 2020 according to, Inside Higher Ed news.
“There has been a stagnant economy in the North Country and the jobs that are available require an associate’s degree,” Trathen said.
For North Country Community College the enrollment was up about 12 percent this year according to, Trathen.
“Historically they (enrollment percentages) have always gone up during tough economic times,” Traven said.
A large amount of unemployed workers were coming from St. Lawrence County after the closing of the General Motors plant in Messina. He said many of those workers are eligible for the stimulus money according to, Trathen.
NCCC currently receives $2675 dollars for every full-time student, and that budget could be reduced in Gov. David Patterson’s effort to close the current state budget gap according to, Trathen.
Clinton community College has also had a 10 percent increase in their student enrollment. “Community colleges are in a growth mode across the state,” vice president of student services, Stephen St. Onge said. “People have less money and get a better value when they go to a community college”.
Community colleges such as, NCCC and CCC normally encourage student population growth, and they work together with their local One Work Source to support people who are unemployed to receive funds to attend the job re-training programs.

“Community colleges are engines for local economic growth,” St. Onge Said.
Mary Dupree is an employment counselor at One Work Source. She said there are many people in Clinton County that are on unemployment, and the state of NY really encourages those people to receive the work training. The stimulus money is only funding programs for high job demands according to, Dupree.
“There has been a decrease in a lot of manufacturing jobs,” Mary Dupree said. “Many businesses can’t stay a-float and they have to scale back or close down”.
One Work Source regularly receives federal funds for workers but over the past few years they have been receiving less money and the government’s stimulus money has been a “big boost” according to, employment and training counselor, Kelly Smart.
Around 225 people in Clinton County have received the extra funds, and the stimulus money for training has been “exhausted,” Smart said.
When people heard about the money they started pouring in to receive help. “You wouldn’t believe how many companies whose work goes over seas and they are closing because of it,” Smart said.
Although many workers have received funds, it hasn’t currently affected the local community colleges. “I didn’t affect us this year,” Trathen said.
Traven said NCCC has never exceeded their limit of 10,000 students in the past and most community colleges have always been able to handle any capacity that they have been given according to, Trathen.
“Community colleges are considered the last opportunity because of their open admission, and we don’t want to deny students, because there is no other place for them to go,” he said.

Staying fit through winter

2009-11-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

By Leah Reid Breyette
From freezing temperatures, gray skies, and snow on every surface, winter is thought by many college students to be the dreariest time of year. Because of this, students may find it much harder to get the right amount of physical activity they need each day in the winter. “During the other seasons, especially summer, I’m always outside playing some sort of sport,” says college student Jon Hoffis. “I don’t feel like I’m actually exercising, just having fun. During the winter, all I want to do is curl up in my warm bed and watch TV all day.” Such is true for many students, which is why, according to the 24-Hour Fitness Organization, they tend to gain weight in the winter- for a variety of reasons.
“It isn’t unusual for college students to gain up to five pounds during the winter season,” says Liz Wentworth, a high school health teacher. “There are a lot of reasons why this happens. Weather is a big part of it- people don’t want to go outside when it’s 24 degrees out. Winter season also means the holidays, which usually end up being six weeks of eating junk food, especially after being away at school for a few months and wanting to enjoy home-cooked food.” Whatever the reason, it is important for students to remember that physical activity is the key to not only avoiding weight gain, but also keeping energy levels and overall well-being intact- which is most at risk in the winter time.
The amount of physical activity needed per day is not as large of a number as some people think. Retired physical education teacher Len Schlacter says the recommended amount is at least twenty minutes per day. “You don’t have to work out like a professional athlete to see healthy results. In the winter, it might be harder to go jogging outdoors, but there are plenty of activities both inside and outside that you can participate in, like skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, indoor tennis, and of course regular gyms.” Schlacter says he was once a victim of the winter weight gain, too. “For three years during college, I would come home and sit around the house all day, watching TV and eating nonstop. I hated cold weather, so I just stayed inside all the time. I started growing- and it wasn’t upwards. I finally decided join my brothers for a game of hockey one day, and that’s what my break turned into after that. I know how much of a pain it can be, but once you get up and start moving, you have fun.”
The issue of winter weight gain is not a foreign one to students- it just depends on how much action they are willing to take in order to prevent it. Plattsburgh State junior Teri Deyo always makes sure she gets enough physical activity, especially during the winter. “I usually work out on my elliptical or do lunges and lift free weights.” On the other hand, some students choose to have fun while they can and not worry about gaining weight. “I’m only twenty years old- I’ll worry about weight gain when I’m older,” says Brian Harrington, a sophomore. “Right now, I can eat whatever I want and not get fat. I’m definitely going to pig out over break- I’ll go snowboarding once in awhile, but that’s about all the activity I’ll be getting.”
Although gaining weight during the winter is a common obstacle for many students, it is not one that cannot be easily overcome. According to the 24-Hour Fitness Organization, the key is to eat in moderation and keeping your heart rate up at least twenty minutes a day, three times a week- a small price to pay for long-term health benefits.

Vaccines possibly linked to autism

2009-11-05T08:32:00.001-08:00

By Patricia Fifield
In the wake of the H1N1 vaccine, the dangers and risks of vaccinations is becoming a hot topic, although it has always been a topic of interest with parents. Vaccinations are unofficially linked to Autism and often blamed as the cause of the disorder that affects one in 150 children in the United States.
Autism Spectrum disorders (ASDs) consists of three different types: Autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental disorder. All three disorders affect the mind, development and behavior on all different levels from mild to extreme. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “ASDs begin before the age of three and last throughout a person’s life.”
Some believe that the mercury, also called thimerosal, in vaccines has a direct connection to causing ASDs. Mercury is blamed for affecting the nervous systems that could lead to the neurological disorders like Autism. Pregnant women are warned to stay away from food or medicine that contains mercury because it could be harmful to the fetus, so it is only natural that some parents would think it could be dangerous to their young children.
Generation Rescue is a non-profit organization founded by actress Jenny McCarthy after her son was diagnosed with autism. This group strongly believes that vaccines are the reason their children are now suffering from this complicated disease. “We believe in the awareness and recovery of the disease (autism) is crucial for every parent to understand,” said a representative of the group Alicia Banks. Banks said they believe parents should delay their children’s vaccine schedule to about 18-24 months instead of starting at birth or eliminating them entirely.
Erin MacMullen, a special education teacher in Albany said that she has seen autism first-hand and has chosen to delay her 1-year-old daughter’s vaccines. “I think the amount of mercury in the vaccines is too much for a small baby to handle,” she explained, “I’d rather wait until she’s older to vaccinate her when she can probably handle the level of mercury better.” MacMullen also has a 26-month-old son who was vaccinated according to the CDC’s schedule and has no symptoms of autism.
The American Board of Pediatrics believes that vaccines do not cause autism and there have been no scientific connections between the two. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Martha Passino of Plattsburgh Pediatrics said there is not enough mercury in the vaccines to actually harm the child. Pediatricians strongly suggest children receive their vaccines and follow the CDC schedule.
Parents are faced with the difficult decision on whether to vaccinate their little bundle of joy. There are eight vaccines that children receive within the first years of their life and as with everything in life, there is always a risk involved. “If I don’t get him vaccinated what if he gets sick?” asked new mother Shelly Laidman. Her 4-month-old son has already received two rounds of three vaccinations in his short life along with a Hepatitis B shot the day he was born. Laidman said she knows about the belief of vaccines causing autism, but believes the risk of it happening is less than the chance of her son getting a disease that could have been prevented. “I’d never forgive myself if he ended up with something ridiculous like Polio or something,” she said.
There are some risks attributed to vaccines, but the ones listed by the CDC are mild. Redness, swelling, mild fever, and tenderness are listed as the most common problems after a vaccination along with fussiness and poor appetite. The handout given to parents who vaccinate their children includes a “serious problems” list that includes seizures, comas and permanent brain damage, but says it has only been reported rarely.
The controversy between vaccines and Austin will continue until more research has been done. According to the Autism Society of America, autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in our country so it is difficult to ignore the possible explanations of this statistic.

Considerations while applying to college

2009-11-04T12:26:00.000-08:00

By Kevin Stump
The flutter of excitement, the anxiety of not knowing, the confidence in your maturity, the stress of completing the application, and the relief of getting the acceptance letter and room assignment. Remember how it felt to apply to college?
Students are still applying and enrolling in colleges, however, because of the global, national, and state economy, colleges are being more selective and more competitive.
“As you increase your applicant pool, you start not accepting students you would normally accept, meaning we can require more and choose from a larger group of students” said Richard Higgins, Director of SUNY Plattsburgh Admissions office.
SUNY Plattsburgh admitted 1,074 new students this fall semester. The school went over its target rate of 975 students. Overloading the incoming class does put a burden on teachers, class sizes, residence halls, and other facilities and resources. However, the overload of students can help to off set the 4 million dollar deficit the SUNY Plattsburgh has.
Although the economy is currently not a positive aspect of college and life in general students are still applying to public and private colleges. “Students are considering finances, now more than ever, but are just finding creative ways to get colleges to notice their uniqueness and potential contributions to their institution” said June Pernice, Plattsburgh High School counselor. “Our students always look at SUNY as an option,” said Pernice
“I relied on the fact that I am an Eagle Scout to get into college,” said SUNY Plattsburgh freshman Mathew Amidon.
Although Amidon is currently happy at SUNY Plattsburgh, he would have gone to Hobart and Williams Smith College if he had the money to do so. However, one of the reasons why Amidon choose SUNY Plattsburgh was because of the Education and Geography programs offered. Still, the biggest factor for him and his family was money. Hobart and Williams Smith College offered him a decent scholarship, but still wasn’t as affordable as SUNY.
“He doesn’t have any idea the cost of education today,” said Henry Dodd who was referring to his grandson, Nick Dodd. Dodd also said that the economy is going to be the biggest factor in his grandson’s education.
“The economy might play a role in the choice of where I go” said Plattsburgh High school senior Kenney McCarty who is thinking about studying at SUNY Plattsburgh and Paul Smiths.
Although many feel that the economy is going to play a role in the choices made by prospective students, people are still going to college. “I haven’t noticed hardly any change of the number of students applying to colleges,” said Plattsburgh High School senior English teacher Chris Beaudin.
“However, students who would normally go to private schools are going to public schools, while students who would normally go to public schools are now going to community colleges, again the biggest factor for many is money,” said Beaudin. Money is making people more cautious about where they go and for how long. “Students need to go into college and have a focused path to graduation, its too expensive to stay an extra year,” said Beaudin.
Public schools are at an advantage when it comes to selecting quality students, but are students at the advantage when it comes to selecting colleges? “For colleges to admit a strong academic freshman class, they are to naturally become more selective,” said Pernice.

Local climate change forecast difficult to predict

2009-11-04T12:22:00.001-08:00

By Emmalie Vance
Everyone wants answers to the questions surrounding climate change: Is it real? What are the signs? How fast is the earth’s climate changing and how does it affect me? Scientists are working towards solid answers to these questions but at the moment, seeing into the future of our planet is not as easy as it sounds.
University Professor of Environmental Systems Engineering and Director of the Center for Environmental Systems Engineering at Syracuse University, Dr. Charles Driscoll, has recently taken an interest in climate change in Adirondack State Park. A presentation he gave in mid-Oct. displayed the findings of three climate change models in a Power Point presentation. The three models included one the most sensitive to carbon dioxide (Hadley), the one least sensitive (PCM) and a model that falls somewhere in the middle (GFDL). Each of these three scientific models also displayed two different scenarios: one in which there are low CO2 concentrations and one in which these levels are high. Between these three models and their two extreme scenarios, they predicted a rise in average temperature and precipitation beginning around the years 2020 and 2030.
According to Driscoll, the carbon dioxide levels used by each of these models “are estimates to bracket what we think the increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide will be in about 100 years. We don’t really know; they’re based on social and economic predictions.”
Dr. Ken Adams, SUNY distinguished teaching professor of environmental science, believes that the publicity of these findings have the potential to falsely advertise. The models that are used generally produce the results of global climate change or the results of a very large area such as North America. Climate, which includes temperature, precipitation, wind, etc., is different around the world because of changes in elevation, latitude, longitude and a number of other factors. If the models predict a five-degree increase in temperature in the next 20 years, that is only a global average and should not be assumed true for a small region such as the Adirondacks.
“I think people often overestimate the capabilities of models to predict very specific and local conditions,” Adams said. “It turns into a misuse of science.”
Adirondack Council Legislative Director Scott Lorey is involved in numerous programs whose goals are to help slow the effects of global climate change and global warming. One of the programs buys tons of carbon form local power plant auctions for the purpose of taking it off the market and safely retiring it so it will never be added to the atmosphere.
“Climate change is definitely one of the top three issues in the Adirondacks,” Lorey said. “We’re very fearful that over the next 50-80 years that if things don’t start turning around, we’re going to see more invasive species, more pollutants and so forth. We’re trying to prevent catastrophic things before they happen.”
New York Department of Environmental Conservation Region 5 Director Elizabeth (Betsy) Lowe said, “In general, the one thing that’s kind of interesting about climate change is that even if you don’t completely believe what the scientists say, the measures related to energy efficiency, clean energy and that sort of thing are all good for the environment and good for the economy, too. It’s one of those topics that have benefits all the way around.”

Recession seen to blame for more homelessness

2009-11-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

By Amanda Smith
The economy may be showing signs of recovery, but the homeless are struggling like never before. According to the Clinton County Department of Social Services’ (DSS) records, 2009 has seen the highest number of people seeking assistance in recent years. In 2007, an average of 111 people sought financial assistance and other services from DSS and increased by only three people in 2008, while that number jumped to 138 people in 2009.
“This year has been an increase in everything, eviction especially,” said Debbie Francis, Clinton Co. Department of Social Services Supervisor.
In Plattsburgh, housing has been hard to find, particularly for those in dire need of it. Considering the recession, the public assistance offered to persons looking for help is tremendously limited. Public assistance provides each individual with about $360 while a decent Plattsburgh apartment is about $750, she said.
“You simply cannot live in Plattsburgh for that amount,” Francis said.
In addition to the shortcomings of the already low amount of public assistance, money can also be deducted from that sum if the person obtains a job or receives money elsewhere.
“Getting a job is the number one thing, but it’s hard because these people may not have the skills (to get a job that pays enough)…It’s a vicious cycle,” Francis said.
This cycle has become a new trend in our nation that many are having to deal with, most of who are completely inexperienced to such a situation. Sally Soucia, Director of Community Outreach Program for Joint Council for Economic Opportunity of Clinton and Franklin Co. (JCEO), said she’s sure this is due to the economy.
“We’re seeing more people that were laid off or can’t pay their rent. We’ve also seen more people who have never used our food pantry,” she said.
JCEO works closely with other agencies like Family Promise to ensure that every resource is available. Family Promise helps low-income and homeless families to become financially independent and maintain that independence by offering support services.
Family Promise works with twelve local congregations that serve as host sites for the homeless to stay. The organization prepares dinners and sets time aside for help with homework and fun activities for the kids, but only three families are allowed to use these services at a time to guarantee privacy.
“We also make sure they keep up with their payments,” said Maureen Bradish, Director of Family Promise in Clinton Co.
However, certain criteria can sometimes limit the amount of help a homeless or low-income family receives because each state and organization has different rules, said Bradish. Many times, the problem can be the availability of room as well.
Families go through an interview process before being placed in a host site to ensure following of rules and regulations. A few stipulations of being admitted into Family Promise is that one cannot have a current alcohol or drug problem, anyone with a mental illness or anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse. The organization has a separate program for those with domestic violence problems. Another key rule is that there cannot be just one individual because Family Promise only helps family units; pregnant women are considered a family unit.
Family Promise receives different kinds of aid. Funds from DSS and the state come to them in the form of a grant such as Temporary Assistance Grant and Emergency Shelter Grant. United Way, FEMA and formerly from Assembly woman Betty Little and Senator Janet Dupree contribute money.
“This year we were denied funding (from Little and Dupree) because there isn’t enough state aid,” Bradish said.
In 2007, Little and Dupree contributed $10,000 each. Although fundraising and donations can amount to nearly $20,000, losing funds puts a big dent into what Family Promise can do to help the homeless situation in Plattsburgh.
When Family Promise is unable to temporarily house the homeless, the commissioner of Social Services makes sure that they are put up in motels which are usually grungy, Bradish said. Due to a sharp increase in taxes in the city of Plattsburgh, many can’t afford their rent anymore she said. Plattsburgh Housing Authority sometimes finds homes for Family Promise’s clients, but the waiting list is too long to wait for.
“It’s not an option for my families,” Bradish said. “Finding safe, affordable housing is a hardship in Plattsburgh,”
There is an obvious increase in the number of homes going up for sale, said Donna Trombley, who used to donate money to Family Promise.
“Just on my street you can see it,” she said. “We are in a bad predicament and times are getting even harder.”
“(Overcoming homelessness) depends on someone’s situation and their personality,” said Dr. Carol Shuttleworth, Plattsburgh State’s Senior Counselor of Psychological Services. “Some may become dependent on social services while others may be too embarrassed to even receive help. It also depends upon the support someone has,” she said.
Cornell Cooperative Extension makes parenting, budgeting and after school programs available to the public. There are eight educators that provide programs in Jefferson Co. whereas Clinton Co. only has one, said Stephanie Graf, Youth and Family Program Leader for Cornell Cooperative Extension in Jefferson Co.
“Cornell Cooperative Extension is small in Clinton Co. so program services are limited,” she said.
Graf also mentioned that Social Services may even have some unreported cases of homelessness.
“The homeless situation is different in NYC than it is in the North Country,” she said.
Bradish, Family Promise’s Director, also commented, “Plattsburgh isn’t in your face. If people aren’t sleeping in the street, no one sees it,” she said.

Local schools seek neutrality on Halloween

2009-11-04T12:10:00.000-08:00

By Renee Cumm
Witches, vampires and monsters of all kinds roam the streets once every year. Halloween is conventionally, a night that a large amount of people look forward to and participate in. The elementary school parades, parties and trick-or-treat traditions are not new customs to upstate New York. These traditions have been around for years. Where they have originated and what they stand for is argued among various religions. Some religious groups disagree with certain festivities related to Halloween and will refuse to participate in them. Local schools try to maintain some balance as they schedule events around Oct. 31.
Director of the Long Island Council of Churches, Reverend Tom Goodhue, does not object to celebrating Halloween instead he promotes the idea that teachers should be more involved in learning about many faiths. That could mean inviting someone outside of the school to come into the school and discuss such issues with the faculty and students.
“You have to acknowledge the religious history when celebrating holidays,” said Goodhue.
Oak Elementary School of Plattsburgh will be hosting a Halloween parade on Oct. 30, at 1:30 a.m. An event that may be harmless to most students could be offensive to some. There are very few students who do not participate in such Halloween festivities and for those that do not there isn’t much hype from their parents.
“We do not have any policies on Halloween…decisions we make about the school are not focused on any one religion,” Superintendant of Plattsburgh Schools, James Short said.
When asked about Halloween festivities within the school Short said, “It’s unbelievable the amount of pressure we get from parents who want it…to the families who don’t want to participate, we do offer places for those kids to go,” Short said.
Those students who do not participate are usually dismissed from classes for the day. Usually the issue is related to religion and the parents are not inclined to allow their child to be a part of certain festivities that may go against their religious background.
“Halloween has become associated with some non-Christian traditions that are Wiccan or Pagan in nature,” Goodhue said. Paganism is considered to Goodhue as a modern form of Druid culture.
Druids can be traced back 2,000 years. They originated from Ireland, United Kingdom and northern France. Druids would celebrate their new year on Nov. 1. They believed that on the night of Oct. 31, the living and the dead were more connected. They believed that spirits helped their priests to make predictions about the future and they would often wear costumes to celebrate. The American tradition of trick-or-treating could date back to early parades that were held in England. The poor were given “soul cakes” as long as they prayed for their dead relative according to, www.history.com.
This early form of customary practice among the Druids launched the creation of some modern Pagan traditional festivities. Some of these festivities have been proven to be controversial among Christians.
For most Christians, Halloween marks the eve of All Saints Day which would fall on Nov.1. It is believed to have derived from middle ages and it is custom to join in a festival to honor all of the saints who have died, according to www.stpaulskingsville.org/allsaints.htm .
Ellen Cronk has been a Christian all of her life. She never objected to anything that her children would wear for costumes and she has decorated her house with ghost, ghouls and goblin ornaments that were made by her father.
“I have no problem participating in Halloween traditions,” Cronk said.
Reverend Goodhue also currently participates in some Halloween festivities. His main concern is with schools that allow students to participate in festivities that contain them and with people who do not attempt to understand other religions. He believes that most objective Christians whom object to such festivities see them to be a form of Paganism rituals representing the opposite of Christianity.
Goodhue is a protestant. He said that some of the Halloween traditions that have developed over time are extremely secular and certain Christian religious elements have been lost or distorted.
“It gets mixed up with trick-or-treating and orgies of candy eating,” Goodhue said.
It is traditional for Charles Harageones to place a Jack O’ Lantern on his front porch to, “rid off evil spirits,” he said.
Harageones has been a Pagan for eight years. For him Halloween is a fun day to celebrate. He will dress in a costume and he will, “dance, sing, feast and be merry”.
Harageones said his goal as a Pagan is to do his part in remaining harmonious with nature and human culture. He wants to help others to understand nature and tries to stay away from any negative energy.
“I’m going to have fun and honor the cycles of nature,” Harageones said.People should do what they feel helps them out as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else,” he went on to say.
Reverend Goodhue said that people should get to their neighbors religiously and school districts should establish some general policies about religious freedom.
“We go out of our way and our curriculum…we acknowledge diversity when our parents express certain wishes to be honored”, superintendant of Beekmantown Schools, Scott Amo said.
Amo said that permissions slips are sent home with students before events take place. They must be signed in order for a child to participate.
“It’s not just Halloween as an anti-religious position it’s the scariness,” said Amo.
Some parents have shown concern over the gory costumes and violent nature that has evolved around Halloween. Beekmantown Schools have set limitations as to what students can wear. They encourage students to dress in story book characters or something of that nature. He said that some parents don’t understand such limitation because some traditions are commonplace for them. To find a way to accommodate all of the students the teachers and the principle get together and discuss to what extent they will get involved in certain festivities.
“We must show a balance and sensitivity,” said Amo
Anyone who objects to Halloween whether it is to maintain the separation of religious practices or they don’t agree with certain festivities can choose to something less conventional.
Goodhue said that Christians who do not want to associate themselves with certain festivities will do alternative things such as haunted hay rides or they will dress their children in harvest related costumes.
“You have to be sensitive to religious beliefs…parents may not want their child to participate in certain festivities,” Goodhue said.
The Plattsburgh Church of Christ will be hosting a fall festival, according to preacher, Doug Kashorek. There will be a costume contest, food and painting. He said that children are encouraged to wear festive costumes and that excludes anything gory that signifies death. Also, a quadriplegic painter, Jack Stone, will be demonstrating how he paints his art with his mouth and he will allow children to attempt to do the same.
Although there are alternatives for dissimilar parents to enjoy the night, the number of those parents has not increased according to superintendant, Amo, but more parents are developing an interest or involvement on the issue.
“More and more families are growing conscious and asking questions," Amo said.

Book review raises awareness of going green

2009-11-04T11:49:00.000-08:00

By Aurora O’Geen
The New York Times recently focused their book review on author Colin Beavan’s new book entitled “No Impact Man”. A quick description of the book reads, “The Adventures of a Guilty Liberal Who Attempts to Save the Planet and the Discoveries He Makes About Himself and Our Way of Life in the Process.” Beaven and his family attempted to live “no impact” for most of 2007. The article presented the idea to research what is being taught about “going green” and conservation in Plattsburgh.
James Munger, 6th grade teacher at Stafford Middle School in Plattsburgh, points out that although going green and information on global warming are not “formally taught”, teachers do try to incorporate the topics as often as possible. Stafford Middle School includes grades 6th through 8th and offers students the opportunity to be a part of their after school recycling club. Efforts of the club are directed toward recycling paper within the school.
Amy Sholtis, biology teacher at Plattsburgh High School is an avid believer in going green. This year, her efforts are focused towards recycling within the school. Believing that it takes a greater awareness to spread the word, Sholtis started the school year by showing a small presentation to the faculty on recycling; motivating them to show the presentation to their own students. Sholtis says, “The support from the school to ‘go green’ has been amazing” - support coming from not only the students, but faculty as well. She notes that although she has seen progress in the school within the past few years there is still much work to be done. Students and faculty are slowly switching to reusable containers, recycling bins have now been placed on the school sports fields, and reusable shopping bags are becoming popular- small steps that add up to big changes.
Students attending Plattsburgh high school are expected to follow three so called “guidelines”- be respectful, be responsible, and be safe. Sholtis would like to add one to the mix and it is of course, to be green. Noting that small efforts lead to big changes, Sholtis believes the more support the school gets to “go green” the greater the changes will be. So far, efforts include grant money for solar roof panels, a garden, and even a living roof.
It seems students at Plattsburgh State are also influenced to “go green”. The campus offers numerous clubs and organizations for students looking to get involved and learn more about our impact on the environment. Over the years the campus has made notable progress in attempts to move towards reusable containers, providing recycling containers across campus, and offering students a great deal of information regarding conservation. Transfer student Emily Gardiner came to Plattsburgh from SUNY Potsdam during her sophomore year. Being new to the campus, Gardiner says the recycling efforts on campus were “easily recognized” – nothing the recycling bins available within dorms, dining halls, and class buildings.
Efforts on campus also include information through classes. Megan Barnes enrolled in SUNY during the spring 2009 semester. An accounting major, it seemed unlikely that any environmental influences would be incorporated into her class schedule. To fulfill a general education requirement, Barnes opted to take an environmental studies class offered on campus. She says the class “opened her eyes” to the idea of recycling and how important conservation is to preserving our future.
Of course schools aren’t the only place where children are influenced- family life plays a big part as well. Heidi Lebrun is parent to three young girls who attend Bailey Avenue and Oak Street elementary schools in Plattsburgh NY. When asked of her family’s interest in going green Heidi explains her children have surprisingly learned a great deal about recycling and conservation through cartoons as well as in school. Turning the lights off, conserving water, recycling- installing such ideas into a child’s mind at a young age will no doubt influence their behavior in the future. The more information we provide, the easier a “greener” life becomes.
Going green doesn’t necessarily always mean attempting to live “impact free” for an entire year like Beavan, but small acts add up. It seems clear Plattsburgh’s community efforts, whether they are through schools, or at home, seem to be influencing our youth. Misconceptions of going green may be common, but you don’t have to be an environmentalist to make a difference in our world- awareness is essential for change and community efforts are clearly adding up.

The skinny on size acceptance

2009-11-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

By Cassandra Morrissey
Chad Parkhurst is a 27 year old male. He was born and raised in Ilion N.Y., and currently works as an accountant for New York Life. He enjoys watching movies and playing with his dog Duke. Although Parkhurst says he’s the happiest and healthiest he’s felt entire life, he has a BMI of 31.6.
“I get to eat what I want, and I finally feel comfortable in my body. So what if statistics claim I’m obese. I’m happy in my body,” said Parkhurst.
Accepting your body image is a difficult concept thousands of people struggle with. Whether it’s thinking you’re overweight or too skinny, the majority of the American population is unsatisfied with their body. According to the Social Issues and Research Centre, 80 percent of females over the age of 18 are unhappy with their physical appearance. One movement that is trying to combat this rising issue is the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance.
NAAFA is a national non- profit organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on body size. Their goal is for society to accept people of every size and shape with dignity and equality. Janet Severe is the co-chair of the Rocky Mountain NAAFA organization. Although the majority of individuals joined NAAFA to gain support from others; social networking is the driving force to belong to the organization.
“We talk about discrimination, stereotyping, and problems we’ve encountered. We are able to share experiences and connect with each other. If there is a group of us together, it makes me less scared to go out and do different things,” said Severe.
According to the Center for Disease Control, over two- third of adult Americas are overweight and half of those qualify as obese. Although, there is still discrimination based upon someone’s size. Whether it’s at work or the grocery store, obese individuals continue to find themselves criticized for their body image.
“Weight discrimination is one of the last discriminations people feel is okay in our society, and it’s not,” said Severe.
Although not everyone is satisfied with NAAFA’s message. Karleen Lowell, 26, is currently 5 feet 5 and 230 pounds. She has been battling weight her entire life, and believes support for exercising it more helpful then encouragement based on her current appearance.
“Sometimes it helps if someone is straight forward with me about my appearance. I want someone to tell me what I should and shouldn’t eat. Not someone saying its okay how I look and its okay I’m overweight. I’m unhappy with how I look, and I want to change that,” said Lowell.
One outlet some people are finding help with eating habits is through a food coach. Donna James is the director and principal consultant of the Food Coach in NYC. As a certified clinical nutritionist, she deals with obesity or eating disorders on a daily basis. One of the main factors she includes when talking to people is the importance of overall health.
“We want people to feel positive about being overweight. However, along with that, you want to factor in a positive attitude with food and exercise,” said James.
According to James, she discusses overall body health and appreciation with people of all sizes. An extremely thin individual might be receiving as much discrimination for their body shape as an obese person, and it’s still going unnoticed.
“We don’t strive to make people feel conscious of what they look like; the ultimate aim is for them to walk out with a positive view of their body and health,” said James.
Another outlet many people find support is through detailed programs aimed at fighting relationships with food. Ilene Leshinski is a licensed clinical social worker who began a program called Body Sense. The program is a 12 week session aimed at battling issues with weight management and finding our own natural weight.
“We have to be comfortable with our body and not buy into the concept that thinness is the only image of beauty, because it’s not,” said Leshinski.
Moderation and overall health are factors Leshinski includes when discussing health with individuals.
“ We’re basically trying to tell people that everyone was not meant to be thin and we can eat what we want in moderation, however, we still need to be healthy and take the best care of ourselves that we can,” said Leshinski.
Parkhurst and Lowell have different opinions about their body image; they both find support from their friends, nutritional outlets and organizations. Although Parkhurst has found satisfaction and happiness with his body, he still hopes people begin accepting people for who they are, rather then how they look.
“I’m going to be the same person I am now or if I weigh 50 pounds less. I just wish people would realize that. Size discrimination is unfair and believe me, it hurts. I just wish people would realize that.”

City holds public meeting over Saranac River trail

2009-11-04T11:39:00.001-08:00

By Mathias Kamin
Grace Bechard’s grandfather used to own the small strip of land across the street from her home at 126 Pine St; a piece of land only about eight feet wide in some places that bit by bit tumbles straight into the Saranac River each year with the coming of the spring thaw. The city of Plattsburgh now owns this land, and is planning on shoring up the embankment with a retaining wall that will be supporting a newly unveiled river trail.
The first of many public meetings was held two weeks ago showcasing the proposed multi-use trail that will run along the Saranac river in Plattsburgh. The trail which will be paved and open to pedestrians and bicyclists should be completed by November of 2010.
The trail will run along the length of the river from the end of George Angel Drive behind Plattsburgh high school through the SUNY Plattsburgh campus and will end at the Saranac Street Bridge.
The trail’s current course is set to pass through the Pine Street neighborhood, and certain residents expressed wariness of the proposed trail. “It’s a waste of money; there are other things the money should be spent on especially in this economy,” said Randy Brown of 140 Pine St.
Pine street residents were generally supportive of the trail, but on the condition that it was an open debate and that city official would listen to their concerns. “We’re not against it. I don’t mind the expenditure, as long as they use it right, respectfully,” said Todd Bechard.
Around the bend in the river, neighbor of the Bechard’s and Brown’s, Bill Trim of 84 Pine St, “It doesn’t bother me, but I know some of my neighbors might be upset.”
The 1 million dollars in funding for the proposed trail will come from the New York State Department of Transportation’s Multi Modal 2 Program. This program sets aside money for projects that encourage alternate forms of transportation. A majority of the path would be 10ft wide allowing for easy two way traffic on the path.

Although the city signed an agreement with Barton & Logidice, PC of Albany in Sept 2008, the proposed trail is still in the planning stages and its current design is not final. Thomas C. Baird P.E. the managing engineer for the project said “modifications to the design can happen anytime. It is the city’s project they call the shots.” Baird said that his company will be working under a consensus with the city of Plattsburgh, PSUC, the River Trail Committee and the Public.
River Trail Committee meetings are to be held once a month at city hall said the city’s engineer, Kevin Farrington P.E. “The committee is a grassroots citizen group, with pretty much everybody represented. You got reps from inside the city, outside the city, the Chamber of Commerce, the Health Department, SUNY Plattsburgh. The meetings are open to the public and they are encouraged to express themselves. A big part of the committee is to build consensus”.
Barton & Loguidice were chosen by the city out of a pool of qualified firms to do the work. Barton & Loguidice are currently working in Lloyd, New York, an hour and a half south of Albany, on a similar project to the one in Plattsburgh, in which is an old railroad track is being turned into a public use trail.
The next meeting of the Trail Committee is scheduled for Nov. 18 at 4:30pm in the Plattsburgh City Hall’s community room. The public is encouraged by the city to attend and voice their concerns.

How to help prevent computer virus infection

2009-11-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

By Leah Reid Breyette
Viruses are a nightmare come true for any computer user. They can turn any decently-working computer into a useless piece of garbage in a matter of minutes, destroying hard drives and wiping out valuable files. People who use computers, whether for work or leisure, should know how to protect themselves from receiving these nasty bugs, and what to do if they find any suspicious-looking software on their computers.
Viruses are most often found in spam e-mails, which are sent randomly to different accounts. When the user opens the e-mail, the virus will be triggered to begin attacking the computer’s hard drive. One sure method of stopping this virus in its tracks is commonly recommended by computer technicians. “If you think you have opened an e-mail that may be downloading something to your computer, hit the power button to shut the computer down immediately. It is not recommended to do this often, but doing this can prevent the virus from damaging your computer,” says Lisa Loveday, owner of Champlain Valley Computer Services.
However, sometimes these e-mails can be masked so well that sometimes it is hard to tell the difference between a legitimate e-mail and a virus. “The best thing to do if you are unsure is to contact a technician or someone familiar with the workings of a computer,” says William Morgan, owner of North Country Technology. “If you are getting suspicious e-mails, alerts, or warnings, you should not use the computer until it is fixed.”

If a virus does escape onto the computer, all hope is not lost. Most systems are salvageable, but it takes a lot of work to get them back to normal. “In some cases, we have to reinstall the computer software to redo the entire operating system,” says Judi Latt, owner of Judi’s Computer Support. “We also put a trial version of an antivirus program on there for the customers with instructions on how to update it.”
Antivirus programs are crucial in preventing viruses from making their way onto computers. The most common programs available are Norton, McAffee, and AVG, all of which cost a small annual fee. “I had a major virus on my computer last year, and AVG really worked for me,” said Scott Breyette, who uses the Internet daily. “It cleared the virus right out of the system, and it’s done a good job protecting my computer against other viruses.” There is good news for students and faculty at SUNY Plattsburgh who wish to install antivirus protection on their computers. “We offer a free antivirus program called SOPHOS, which is available for all students and faculty here to download,” says Robert Diman, Help Desk Technician with the school’s Computer Care Services.
While it is important to protect computers against viruses so they are not permanently damaged, there is an even larger reason why taking precautions against these viruses is crucial. “Ultimately, these viruses are cases of identity theft,” says Latt.
Most of the time they need to get offt the Internet-unplug it, never put your credit card number in, ultimately it’s identity theft. JUDI

Seeing pink during cancer awareness month

2009-11-04T11:27:00.000-08:00

By Zachery Lashway
The pink ribbon is the national icon of breast cancer awareness. The month of October is breast cancer awareness month, therefore, during the month of October it is not a surprise pink ribbons and the color pink are found on many products and articles of clothing to express support for men and women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
From convenient stores to department stores the pink ribbon can be found on bread bags and milk cartons, saline solution and tubes of toothpaste and even shirts, socks and book bags have the emblem embodied on the material.
Aside from the pink ribbon emblems found on many products in the North Country, the Foundation of the Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital hosts the annual Girls Night Out event along with other cancer awareness programs.
“The Girls Night Out event is held in Glenn Giltz Auditorium at Plattsburgh State University. This was our eleventh year hosting the event. The event starts off with an educational component then followed with an inspirational speaker,” said Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialists, Ellie Collins.
Collins also said the program originally was aimed at only breast cancer, however, as the program became more popular discussions on colon cancer, smoking and like this year’s discussion on nutrition evolved.
A huge hit of the Girls Night Out event is the Boobie Sister’s. The Boobie Sister’s are a group of breast cancer survivors that sing and make fun of conditions related to the disease said Collins.
The American Cancer Society also sponsors many breast cancer awareness programs in the North Country as well. Among those programs are the Look Good…Feel Better program, the Reach to Recovery for Women program, the Man to Man program and the most celebrated program of all, the Relay for Life.
According to the American Cancer Society the Look Good…Feel Better program gives women cancer patient’s beauty tips to look better and feel good about how they look during chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Community Executive, Joan Sterling said, “Women who participate in this program get a free wig, a makeup kit valued at $250.00 and tips on how to look good and feel better. Women who cannot participate at the time the program is offered can have the supplies mailed to them and can arrange an appointment with a local cosmetologists. It really is a great program.”
According to the American Cancer Society’s website, men who have breast cancer can receive a self-help brochure that gives information on how to look good and feel better during the time they receive treatment. The brochure provides men with information on how to deal with the treatment’s side effects and how they change the way they look, as well as steps to help men with their daily skin and hair care routines.
Sterling said the Reach to Recovery for Women program connects women cancer survivor’s with women that have been recently diagnosed with cancer.
“It is a great opportunity for women to connect to talk and share their experiences about cancer. There’s also a program called Man to Man that is just for men to connect with other men and talk about their cancer experiences, conditions, struggles and life with cancer.”
According to the American Cancer Society the Relay for Life is an event that allows people all over the world to celebrate the lives of people who have cancer, remember loved ones that we lost to cancer and fight back against cancer.
Sterling said, “Relay for Life is not only a fundraiser but it raises awareness as well.”
As for detecting the disease Radiologists, Dr. Jeffrey Buran of CVPH Medical Center said there are many different ways to detect breast cancer.
“There are different ways to view it, and there are different ways to find it,” he said. “In mammography it appears as an irregular asymmetric density, using ultrasound the cancerous tissue is darker ill-defined and in MR it appears as an asymmetric mass.”
According to Buran from last October to this October 89 women and one man a year at the most have been diagnosed with breast cancer from the Women’s Imaging Center.
“Ninety-five percent of them are curable,” he said.
Curable or not, it is never easy to tell a patient they have cancer.
“I try to make it as positive as I can. The cancers we usually find are small so I really stress that part, but it still is never easy,” Buran said.
Mary Snide a mammographer at CVPH’s Women’s Imaging Center said they screen more patients in the month of October because it is breast cancer awareness month.
“There’s so many reminders out there – something pink, there are ads all over, so for women who forgot to get screened there’s reminders all over,” said, Snide.
The month of October has a higher diagnosis rate of breast cancer than other months.
“It’s a statistical thing, statistically if you screen more patients you will get more cancers,” said Snide.
In 2009 the American Cancer Society estimates 1,479,350 new cancers will be diagnosed in the United States, including 101,550 in New York. Of those, 562,340 people will die from cancer nationwide and 34,190 people in New York will die.
According to the American Cancer Society eight individuals each week will be diagnosed with cancer in Clinton County and three individuals will die each week. Four cancer sites represent 52.2 percent of all new cancer cases and 48.7 percent of all new cancer deaths in Clinton County. This is estimate is based on average annual cases and deaths from the 2002-2006 New York State Department of Health’s State Cancer registry.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung and bronchus cancers account for 17 percent of all cancer cases and 30 percent of all cancer deaths. This shows how important the need for tobacco use prevention is. Prostate cancer accounts for 12.1 percent of all cancer cases and 4.3 percent of all cancer deaths. Female breast cancer accounts for 11.5 percent of all cancer cases and 5.3 percent of all cancer deaths and colorectal cancer accounts for 11.5 percent of all cancer cases and 9 percent of all cancer deaths.
All percentages of cancer cases and cancer deaths in Clinton County supersede percentages of cancer cases and cancer deaths than any other county in New York.
Barb LaDuke knows firsthand about cancer statistics. LaDuke is a breast cancer survivor and recalls when her doctor told her ‘you have cancer’.
“Cancer is a very scary word. It’s the uncertainty of not knowing… it makes you think more about relationships and that tomorrow is not promised to anyone,” LaDuke said.
John Kowalowski a colon cancer and lymphoma survivor said he was a little scared when he was diagnosed.
“It scares you at first, I was right in the fog but it didn’t bother me too much, I took it as another step in life. But you do have to be positive about it, take it one day at a time. I just trusted in the Lord…Having cancer gave me a better attitude on life, I appreciated everyday more.” Kowalowski said.
LaDuke said men and women with the disease should be vigilant.
“You have to be your own advocate,” said LaDuke.
Agreeing with LaDuke was the advice Sterling gave.
“Be your own advocate, don’t be afraid to ask questions, but don’t make yourself crazy checking every website under the sun. If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding cancer call 1-800-227-2345 this is the American Cancer Society’s number and lines are open 24 hours day seven days a week.”

Rooftop highway proposal controversial

2009-11-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

By Patricia Fifield
Clinton County had a 9.0 percent unemployment rate for September of this year. St. Lawrence County is at 7.8 percent. Miles of Route 11 and tiny towns separate these two counties, but they share the same poor economy and unemployment. Income is low, jobs are few and far between, and the youth is leaving for greener pastures. Businesses do not seem to be attracted to the North Country, which causes greater unemployment and poverty in the region.
Route 11 in New York proceeds northwestward from the Pennsylvania border and reaches Quebec. When the highway was constructed in 1924 it may have been all the state needed, but times are changing. “We need something better up here. Bigger. This whole place is slowly turning into a ghost town,” said Charlie Palmer. Palmer lives in Rennselaer Falls, located just outside of Canton. He said throughout his 40 years in the area he has never seen it this bad. “We all used to have jobs, things to do, but not anymore.”
The Developmental Authority of the North Country is proposing a Rooftop Highway, formally called the Northern Tier Expressway or Interstate 98. The four-lane expressway would connect I-87 in Champlain to I-81 in Watertown, which would bypass the heavy truck traffic on Route 11. With a large highway in the area that could easily connect the rural communities of the North Country to bigger cities, some think businesses would be more interested in the area and jobs will follow.
Local business owner Stephen Moore believes having an Interstate in the area would be beneficial to all small businesses. “We would have more traffic around here and then get more business,” he said.
There is another side to this story: Environmentalists are against the I-89 proposal and believe the new highway could threaten the Adirondack Park. The park was created in 1892 by the state and according to the Adirondack Park Agency (APA) it is the largest publicly protected area in the U.S. It’s bigger than Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Park combined with 6 million acres. Three highways currently surround the Adirondack Park: the Northway, Thruway, and I-81. The Rooftop Highway would be to the North of the Park, parallel to Route 11, and environmentalists believe it would close in the Park.
John Sheehan of The Adirondack Council said the highway would cut off the Adirondacks from animal migration and higher speed limits on I-98 could endanger the lives of animals. “It would also make more remote areas of the Adirondacks more easily accessible and therefore more vulnerable to irresponsible logging and unplanned development, much the way the Adirondack Northway led to a major shift in development,” he said. Sheehan said communities along the Northway have seen economic decline unless they were areas that were blessed with an exit ramp.
The Rooftop Highway or I-98 continues to be a hot debate in the area. According to adirondackalmanack.com, the federal stimulus package has set aside only $1.1 billion for New York state highway and bridge projects. Maybe this highway to nowhere will take some more time.

Domestic violence awareness increasing

2009-11-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

By Lindsay Blair
Once seen as a trivial issue, domestic violence is today a matter that is taken much more seriously, according to Lynda Ames, professor in sociology at Plattsburgh State.
Ames, who has worked within the Clinton County community in previous years, analyzing and evaluating the programs offered to victims of domestic violence, said that as a community, Clinton County has recognized that domestic and intimate crimes are matters which should be taken more seriously than in previous years.
“The efforts that have been done (to tackle domestic violence in the community) have not had the backing of the entire society,” said Ames,
“Many people trivialize it, saying “it is just a domestic, it is just a husband and wife thing” and so they don’t take it as seriously as they ought,” she said.
October was domestic violence awareness month and services within Plattsburgh honored this by hosting ceremonies and events. The events, sponsored by the Clinton County Task Force against Domestic Violence, were hosted by STOP Domestic Violence, an organization which supports victims of domestic violence in the North Country.
“There are services now that make it easier for her (the victim) to leave,” said Ames, “but I don’t think there has been a reduction in the incidents and the number of times that people beat up their intimate partners,” she said.
“In the past 20 years the police have been taking it much more seriously than in previous years. They have been making arrests more now,” Has it reduced the incidents, question Ames, “not really, but what it can do is help the victim, so if the victim has resources, she is better able to leave,” she said.
According to data released by the National Institute of Justice and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2000, one in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Information from the Institute states that domestic violence can take many forms, other than the stereotyped image of physical violence. Aggression, control, domineering behavior, neglect, stalking and intimidation and deprivation are all forms of domestic crimes. The most likely forms of intimate crimes take happen at the hands of a male, but cases of females becoming the perpetrator are becoming more and more prominent amongst the reported cases.
In the United States, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics women are about six times as likely as men to experience intimate partner violence and estimates that only one third of cases are actually reported.
Also, according to the report, in all cases of intimate partner violence, women were more likely to be injured than men, but 25 percent of men in relationships with two-sided violence reported injury compared to 20 percent of women reporting injury in relationships with one-sided violence.
“A lot of people don’t want records kept because they are afraid of the consequences,” said Susan Kelly, program director at STOP.
“What we do is we help them to figure out what they want to do and we get take steps to helping them achieve that. We tell them how the services in the county work, we get paperwork ready, we can accompany them to court if necessary, we give them someone to talk to and we can also offer them transportation to a safe place in the area,” she said.
Kelly, who has worked with STOP for many years, said that the most dangerous phase for a victim of domestic violence is when they first decide to leave the relationship.
STOP offers bedsits and safe areas around the county whereby victims can seek support and a place to go. Links with the police and CVPH Medical Centre offer extensive support systems. STOP receives around 400 people per year, who require help and support.
“Dealing with domestic violence, the systems have changed, there are still holes (in the system). We can’t guarantee people that the program will work for them, but we try the best we can,” said Kelly.
“We have more clients now than ever. More people are reaching out, the word is out there so they know that it is possible to reach out.”
Professor Ames, said that society and social ideologies are a factor which can often create a social pressure to remain in relationships.
“There’s a great pressure from society to be coupled, we are a very couple orientated society,” said Ames, “If you leave a relationship you are alone and many people don’t wish to be alone.”
“Coupled though, doesn’t mean married,” added Ames, “Even people who are coupled but not living together can experience domestic violence in their relationship. There can be a violent relationship or violence in a relationship,” she said.
As a community Plattsburgh offers support to victims of domestic violence who reach out and are ready to seek help. Often people just need someone to talk to, according to Susan Kelly at STOP. Domestic violence awareness events raise the issue within the community and offer victims a chance to become aware of the services available to them. Overall the issue is becoming less of a taboo topic, said Ames.
“Some people just don’t understand their needs yet,” said Kelly, “It is hard to know which areas are worse than others, but rural areas are harder (to address the issue) because there are less services, but in smaller communities we are better at taking care of each other.”

Schools go above & beyond despite limited funds

2009-10-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Smith
With today’s busy schedules, parents are inclined to buy cheap, easy, on-the-go meals especially from fast food chains. “One of the obstacles is that students eat convenience food at home and when they come in, they don’t want the healthy stuff,” said School Lunch Manager at Plattsburgh City School District, Charlene O’Conner.
In Clinton County alone, nearly 35 percent of people are obese. Obesity has the potential to start a young age when parents interpret their infants’ crying as a need to be fed, said SUNY Plattsburgh Nutrition Professor, Susannah LeVon. “I don’t think there’s enough education (available,)” she said.
“I would like to spend more time on (nutrition education),” said Plattsburgh School District’s Momot Elementary Principal, Mary Louise Lamberti. The district sends out a health newsletter to all households with children attending the school. They also have dieticians from the Clinton County Health Department come and speak with students in an assembly or a classroom setting about the importance of nutrition, said Nutritional Coordinator for the Clinton County Department of Health, Jeri Reid.
Schools have a responsibility to teach kids about nutrition and parents have the responsibility to enforce it, said Managing Dietician of College Auxiliary Services of SUNY Plattsburgh, Vallee said. Helping parents learn about letting kids regulate their own eating is also important. Parents may not realize that they are setting a bad example simply by eating at a fast food restaurant. “Kids do what parents do, not what they say,” she said. “If you make it a war, it will be.”
LeVon hopes to one day have a community cooking class to teach Plattsburgh locals how to cook healthy, economical meals from scratch. Knowing how to make a nutritious meal is also a problem for many families. Time and money all factor into why we eat unhealthily, LeVon said. Although they are under close surveillance, schools have the same issues as parents with time and money.
Plattsburgh School District is one of the eight districts in Clinton County that follow the USDA’s guidelines. They have recently adopted a slue of new rules and guidelines to provide their students with more nutritious meals. A limited choice of commodities from the USDA and lack of funds force school districts like Plattsburgh to provide frozen food that needs to be heated up. Commodities consist of mostly dairy and meat products, usually high in fat, used for schools at lower costs. With fruits and vegetables, the cost of labor is what increases the total cost, said LeVon. Though, schools are free to go beyond the state criteria, Vallee said.
“To continue these great strides and to protect children’s health, we urge the USDA to move quickly to develop and propose regulations to apply the new Dietary Guidelines to the school meal programs in a cost-effective manner,” said The National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity, which is made up of various health-related associations such as the American Heart Association and Yale Prevention Center.
It is possible to make a healthy meal that can be cheaper than processed food and take less time, LeVon said.
The schools have been making their own choices about what foods to sell and what policies will work for them. “(The policy) is kept around the building so if someone wants a copy (they can have it,)” O’Conner said. Everything must be in accordance with the nutrition guidelines from the USDA, state, and local law. Plattsburgh School District has adopted many new rules this year in its policy which is updated yearly. Specific rules are implicated for foods sold throughout the day, especially foods sold at fundraising events, food as a means of reward, and even celebration food is restricted. School parties are allowed “no more than one food or beverage that does not meet nutritional standards,” according to the schools policy.
A few schools in the county, like Plattsburgh, have made the choice of switching to whole-grain wheat products and fresh fruits. The students are more likely to buy fresh-cut sliced apples rather than whole apples which is why the school has started to make more of those available, said O’Conner. Plattsburgh School District has even tried serving healthier options such as soup, but “students strain the veggies out,” she said.
The more food the school serves, the more money they receive from the government so the school tries to give students a variety to choose from. To maintain control, the school has chosen to restrict the sale of certain items. The state has banned the sale of soda in vending machines for elementary and middle school students to deter them from making bad choices. Instead, vending machines have been stocked with water and juice to promote healthy eating.
Having a computerized registration system from a company called LunchByte Systems has helped Plattsburgh District to keep track of what students buy. “Parents will call and put notes (on the system),” O’Conner said. The system is a way of controlling students’ intake or at least monitoring what the parents cannot.
As of last year, schools are required to keep tabs on students by reporting body mass index every two years to the Health Department, Reid said.
“The ideal situation would be if everyone could eat for free, have fresh vegetables and home-cooked meals from scratch…It would be great if everyone sat down and ate instead of throw it out,” O’Conner said.
A few school districts within the county participate in the nation-wide Farm to School Program which supplies fresh food to local schools grown on local farms. Of all the schools in New York, only seventeen are involved in the program.
“With the supply problem, it hasn't really taken off,” Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Agricultural Team Leader, Amy Ivy said via e-mail. However, Plattsburgh School Disrtict, does buy fresh fruits and vegetables directly from locals farms such as Rulf’s, Pray’s, and Shield’s.
In Florida, they offer less starchy items and cut out fried foods, said Vallee, who interned under nationally-recognized Director of Nutrition for Sarasota County Public School, Beverly Girard. “Parents do the best they can…(but) child nutrition seems to do better in schools,” Girard said. “We are about ten years behind in school funding compared to the consumer price index,” she said. “There is no ideal under government funded programs.”

N.Y. now ticketing for texting

2009-10-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

By Emmalie Vance
Texting and driving have been joined at the hip since the new mode of communication was made affordable for driving teens around the turn of the millennium. Once seen as the new fad, text messaging has spread from the thumbs of teens to their parents and, in some cases, their grandparents.
A study released in 2008 by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety states, “More than four out of five drivers rate drivers using cell phones as a serious or extremely serious traffic safety problem, over half say that it is unacceptable, and one in seven even mention reducing or eliminating driver cell phone use…between 29% and 46% of these same drivers report that they themselves have used a cell phone while driving at least occasionally in the past month.”
To combat these and other statistics, Governor David Paterson signed legislation in mid-August expanding New York’s existing ban on cell phone use while driving to include text messaging. The governor’s signature added New York to the growing list of 18 other states that ban text messaging while behind the wheel, according to http://www.ghsa.org/.
“The generation of my two boys, who are SUNY students,” said Mayor Donald Kasprzak, “absolutely text every day, all day in all sorts of different places so I truly believe that this new law will have an absolute impact on them and probably one that they don’t appreciate.”
One of the more important aspects of the new law is that it is punishable only as a secondary offense meaning before a person can be ticketed for text messaging while driving, they must be breaking another law first, such as speeding or disobeying a traffic signal. It will take effect on Nov. 1 and a ticket could cost up to $150.
“I think the texting law is going to be difficult to enforce,” Kasprzak said, “because you could have your hands [in your lap] and you could be looking up and down. I don’t think local or state police are going to really make that a priority although it is a new law.”
Joseph Lynch III, a student at SUNY Plattsburgh, says, “The chances of people getting caught are very slim so why would they stop? People still talk on their cell phones and that’s been a primary offense for several years. If people aren’t stopping when it’s a primary offense, then making it a secondary offense makes it that much more improbable that they’re going to stop.”
According to Eric Stigberg, Public Relations for AAA, the national company is “absolutely very pleased that the state went ahead with this plan.” AAA has been campaigning since late September for all 50 states to pass a law against texting while driving and to improve the existing laws by 2013. Although pleased with the step that New York has recently taken, Stigberg says AAA would like to see the law made into a primary offense with more serious ramifications than a small monetary fine.
“Before you get in the vehicle, finish those conversations via text. When you get into the car and get ready to go, stow away your device and don’t touch it. If it’s absolutely necessary, pull off the side of the road to a safe location and do it while you’re parked,” Stigberg said.
Mitch Carriere, Traffic Safety Specialist for Clinton County’s Traffic Safety Program, travels to local schools to teach kids about the dangers of distracted driving. A new slideshow presentation he uses profiles a 4-year-old boy who was a victim in an accident caused by an 18-year-old girl who was texting while driving. The photographs of the boy after the accident are disturbing but unfortunately, according to Carriere, “The more disturbing they are, the more they hit home."
Carriere hopes this new law will become second-nature to future generations, as with the law requiring all drivers to wear seatbelts, which was passed in 1985. “In the fall of 1985, the seat belt usage rate in New York State was only 46 percent,” according to a 2009 press release celebrating the 25th anniversary of the seat belt law in New York State. “Last year, the rate had nearly doubled and was recorded at its highest, 89 percent.”
Frank Mercier, Traffic Safety Program coordinator, agreed with his colleague in hoping that the law will inspire future generations to concentrate more on the road than their handheld devices. “Drivers have the mindset that they’re in control and nothing’s going to happen to them,” Mercier said. He hopes that the Traffic Safety Programs and other programs and educational initiatives will soon correct this mindset when it comes to distracted driving.
“I think that most states will follow New York’s lead [of the new texting while driving law] because it is a distraction and I do believe that with the continued changes in technology that such devices will become more prevalent,” Kasprzak said. “Overall, though, I think it was the right decision to be in the forefront.”

Dementia study indicates future risks for footballers

2009-10-26T18:23:00.000-07:00

By Aurora O’Geen
The New York Times recently featured an article focusing on a major study of dementia rates among former NFL players. The study was conducted by the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research; and although long denying any relation between football and cognitive decline among players the NFL commissioned the study. It was found that 6.1 percent of players age 50 and above had been diagnosed with dementia related symptoms; five times higher than the national average of 1.2 percent. Players age 30-49 showed stats 19 times greater than the national average; 1.9 percent compared to 0.1 percent.
With such compelling data, what does this mean for the future of football? The NFL is currently in the process of conducting its own study among 120 former professional players, results are expected within a few years. Dementia itself is a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. It targets a person’s short term memory loss- leaving them able to describe events from years earlier, yet unable to remember what they ate for breakfast. Many times patients are unable to recognize family members, even forgetting the names of their own children. Megan Whitton, whose grandmother was recently diagnosed with dementia, describes the constant forgetfulness and confusion as “emotionally draining.” Whitton states that “it’s not easy knowing there’s nothing you can do to help.”
Marcie Wyand, admissions director at Pine Harbour Assisted Living in Plattsburgh, deals with dementia patients on a daily basis. Symptoms may include disorientation or confusion, much like that of a person right after any head injury. The causes of dementia are for the most part unknown, it is however certain that environmental factors, heredity, and history of head injury can lead to the disease. Although dementia itself will not kill you, there is no known cure. Wyand states that “head injuries should not be taken lightly” continuing on to note the “long term effects on the brain are irreversible.”
Football has long been a tradition in the North Country; players can start anywhere from kindergarten up. After hearing the risks associated with dementia why aren’t coaches, parents, or players taking it seriously? Coaches may overlook injuries not wanting to face the loss of their star player, or simply because they may not witness every single hit or injury during a game. Players themselves brush off injuries not wanting to be labeled a wimp or appear weak. Even parents may not consider an injury as serious as it should be. It’s easy to overlook the long-term affects these injuries may have on a player, but overtime they add up; once the brain has been damaged its nearly impossible for it to recover properly.
Pat Goodell, head coach of Plattsburgh’s varsity football team believes safety procedures have come a long way since his days of playing varsity football. Many times head injuries were taken lightly in the past, Goodell states that players would even joke a teammate had “gotten his bell rung” after receiving a hard hit to the head. Today however, several precautions are taken when a player receives a hit to the head. In fact, Plattsburgh high school has a series of steps a player must complete before returning to the game after a concussion or head injury. Players suspected of head trauma are examined by the schools trainer, and only if cleared by the trainer and coach are they able to return to the field. Once symptom free, they are not out of the clear- they must attend practices and pass a four day trial period. This involves conditioning training without contact for one day, and if symptom free, again the second day. The third day back, a player is able to have minimal contact during practice, if they deem symptom free afterwards, they are able to return to full contact on their fourth day.
For players, the process may seem grueling, but it’s clear that head injuries are not taken lightly; these precautions are intended to ensure the safety of players now, and in the future. Many times, players begin football at a young age- increasing their chances for brain trauma overtime. Brian Major, league commissioner of PAL youth football organization in Plattsburgh says “a parent of a youth player should make sure that the league they are playing in is using every safety precaution necessary.”
Brian has ran the PAL organization for 13 years, within that time its believed only 1 or 2 players have had concussions. However they do make note that the intensity of injuries will no doubt increase with age as players grow, but precautions should be taken at every level. For parents concerned with safety, or hesitant to the idea of youth football, Major ensures, “rules of this organization have been formatted to encourage fundamental skills as opposed to the win first mentality.”
Football is not the only sport linked to cognitive decline among players- boxing has long been linked to memory loss both short and long term. Although, for players the goal of football isn’t exactly to knock your opponent out; as it is with boxing. For parents and players passionate about football, taking the necessary precautions at every level will ensure their safety; both now and in the future.

Pour out the milk, or go bankrupt?

2009-10-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

By Cassandra Morrissey
The current dairy industry is in a crisis. Milk prices are so low that farmers face a tough decision; sell their milking cows and find a new career or continue losing money each month. Hundreds of dairy farms across the country have already been forced to decide. Some claim bankruptcy, leaving them with cows they can’t sell and farms that are not profitable. Although others, such as Lance Rovers, hold out hope for a profitable future.
Lance Rovers is a dairy farmer in Chazy. He has been in the industry for over 30 years and has seen the industry price of milk fluctuate greatly.
“Milk prices started out around seven or eight dollars per 100 pounds. I’ve even seen it get as high as 22 dollars. But right now, it’s about 12 dollars,” Rovers said.
The main reason for the milk crisis is due to a supply and demand struggle. As farms across the country continue increasing in size, the supply of dairy products continues increasing. Farms are milking more cows and producing larger quantities of dairy products. Although, the demand for the products is shrinking.
Richard Redman, the district conservationist for the United States Department of Agriculture blames part of the shrinking demand on more choices available for consumers.
“Instead of drinking milk, people are choosing water or soda. Not many families sit down anymore and have a glass of milk at supper. Instead they are on the go and grab a Coke at a fast food place,” Redman said.
Another cause for decreasing demand is due to the current economy. Although the market is struggling, the US dollar still has a higher value then other currencies. This is leading to fewer countries buying American exports.
In 2007, the United States had a prospering dairy market, and farms drastically increased production. Eventually, there was a surplus of dairy products, resulting in a steady demand but increasing dairy availability. Farms in the country no longer had a national market and began looking towards foreign markets. But, countries such as New Zealand and Australia already began to monopolize foreign dairy industries. According to Emily Myers, the dairy educator at the Cornell Cooperative Extension, the United States only exports about 10 percent of its dairy products with foreign countries supplying the rest.
As the supply and demand struggle continues, production cost within the country continues increasing. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, dairy farms especially large farms, rely heavily on hired labor, purchased feed, electricity and shipping cost, which all factor into extra cost for the farm.
Harry Fefee, President of Franklin county Farm Bureau realizes everything is connected.
“All farms are of kind of hurting, but dairy farms in particular. Exports are down, production costs are up, feed cost are up, all the taxes in New York State are up, it’s just getting too expensive for some farms to continue producing,” Fefee said.
These factors are leaving dairy farms struggling to make ends meet. Rovers’, whose farm milks over one thousand cows, is losing over 80 thousand dollars a month.
“It’s a lot of money we are losing, but we aren’t in financial debt too bad yet. We will be able to hold on this down turn, but every down turn you have, you lose strength, and finally you end up cashing in,” Rovers’ claimed.
Jake Swyers has been co-owner of the Adirondack Dairy Farm for eight years. He has seen the highs and lows of the market, but he also has hope for the future.
“We hope to continue to do business as usual. We are trying to cut production cost and save money, but it’s getting tough. The market can’t take this much longer,” Swyers said.
Currently the milk prices are set by the government through detailed formulas. Although, the formulas do not incorporate the cost consumers are paying at the store, the supply and demand changes, and the overall profit. Representatives are trying to find ways to help dairy farmers, but it’s not overly successful. Senator Charles Schumer is trying to push direct payments to dairy farms to help pay for production cost, but its still in the workings in Washington. State Senator Darrel J. Aubertine introduced a legislation that allows farmers to keep up to two dollars more per hundredweight. Finally, a recent bill was signed by President Obama, which gives $350 million to help dairy farmers.
“In the long run, the dairy industry looks good. But right now, they are going through times where $350 million spilt between hundreds of farms won’t be overly helpful. It’s tough for people to agree on a solution, but if something is not done soon, farms will go under,” Myers said.
“I defiantly see my future in farming, but the biggest thing will be getting back the milk market strength. The forecast for the value of milk is supposed to get back, but some are already forecasting it will be down by next fall again. I guess all you can do is hope,” Rovers’ said.

Sunday morning mass in Standish stops

2009-10-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

By Zachery Lashway
The culture of today’s society and the elements of sacrifice have made the priesthood an unpopular career throughout recent years; thus affecting the Catholic religion worldwide.
The closing of churches is becoming a forgone for the Catholic religion in North America because the shortage of priests and the emphasis society places on money.
Father Ted Crosby says the shortage of priests is a worldwide issue and it is becoming a more current issue for America. “Here in the north-east of the United States the pinch is getting tighter,” he said.
Father Crosby is the pastor for St. Bernard’s Church in Lyon Mountain. In addition to being the pastor there, Father Crosby was the pastor of St. Michael’s Church in Standish; a mission (is a full but smaller parish linked with a bigger parish close by) of Lyon Mountain and Chaplain of the Lyon Mountain Correctional Facility.
St. Michael’s closed in late September due to the shift of population over the years and the ever-increasing shortage of priests. In addition to St. Michael’s closing, Father Crosby resigned as Chaplain of Lyon Mountain Correctional Facility on Wednesday, September 30th because St. Bernard’s was linked with St. Edmund’s in Ellenburg; thus making Father Crosby the pastor there as well.
Linking parishes can become very demanding on the priest, so in all efforts to keep the bigger churches open, the smaller churches that are missions will close and the bigger churches will be linked or merged.
Sister Jennifer Votraw, the Director of Planning and Chancellor of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ogdensburg said it is never easy to close a church; there are many memories people have with the church. “There’s a special bond between the church and its parishioners and it’s very hard to cut off that bond.” Both Sister Votraw and Father Crosby said Bishops are often against closing churches and usually look at that as a last resort.
Sister Votraw said St. Micheal’s closed because it is a smaller church with a lower attendance and St. Bernard’s Church is a nearby option for the parishioner’s to attend mass. Money by no means was a factor in the decision to close the church. According to Father Crosby the little church has money in its account and had approximately 30 families in attendance. If there was an influx of population to the Standish area or an influx of priests, the church could have remained open or someday could possibly open again. But the likelihood is it will become an Oratory once the Vatican appoints our Diocese a Bishop.
Linkage and Merger’s are becoming more common within the Catholic religion. According to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ogdensburg linked parishes are usually two but sometimes three parishes that remain independent but share one pastor. A merged parish is when one or more parishes are merged to create one larger parish. A mission is a full operating church but is usually a smaller parish linked to a bigger parish. An oratory is a church that is no longer an operating parish. The oratory will remain the responsibility of the nearby church that it was a mission of. An oratory does not have regularly scheduled services but it can be used for funerals or in celebration of the oratory’s patronal feast that occurs once a year. The Bishop is the only authority that can deem a church an oratory.
According to A Century – Mining for Souls; Ecumenical Edition 1875 – 1975 St. Michael’s in Standish was built in 1888 with only $20.70 and in 1890 the bell weighing more than 525 pounds was blessed and given the name Michael-Marie-Joseph. St. Michael’s was a mission of St. Bernard’s in Lyon Mountain until 1902. In 1902 St. Michael’s built a rectory and a parish hall. In 1916 the parish hall was remodeled for a parochial school that housed classrooms, a stage and a kitchen. The school was blessed a month after it opened and was named the School of the Blessed Virgin. Sixty students attended the school before it closed in 1924 because of financial difficulties. In 1937 St. Michael’s again became a mission of St. Bernard’s Church where it has remained so today.
Lillian Rabideau, a trustee of St. Michael’s Church for more than 25 years, a board member and a Eucharistic Minister of St. Michael’s Church has been a loyal parishioner since 1951. In addition to her devotion to the church she has done domestic work for St. Michael’s and St. Bernard’s for the past 23 years and will continue to do so.
Lillian Rabideau says she will attend another church but she is trying to find another early mass to take place of the early Sunday morning mass she’s attended for the past 58 years in Standish. “I guess I have to find another church, I don’t have much choice.” She said her routine for Sunday was set around morning mass. “I looked forward for Sunday just to go to church.”
Lillian Rabideau’s daughter-in-law, Patti Rabideau, is a board member of St. Michael’s Church and a long-time parishioner. She said there’s been talk of St. Michael’s closing before she came to town. “Towns people always talked about it closing, it wasn’t till recently it became official talk.”
Both Patti and Lillian Rabideau said St. Michael’s closed because the shortage of priests in the North Country and around the world. Patti Rabideau said, “It’s a lonely life to be a priest, there’s no room for a family.”
Claire and Bernadette Kowalowski said they’ve been going to Sunday morning mass in Standish since 1966. “Almost every Sunday we have gone to 8:30 mass in Standish.” Bernadette said. “It is a nice, quaint little church. It’s a very personal mass.”
Both sisters said the closing of Catholic churches like St. Michael’s could have been avoided if younger Catholics were more involved in the Catholic faith and if there were more priests in the vocation. “I think they should let priests get married, it could attract many men and have prevented the ongoing sex scandal that has brought about a lot of negativity within the faith. We have to work on getting the younger generations back to church too,” explained Claire.
There are currently 105 parishes, 10 missions and 23 oratories in the Diocese of Ogdensburg. St. Michael’s is one of the 10 missions and soon could make oratory number 24.
Father Crosby said, “The linking and merging of churches is just a quick fix. Three priests died this year in the North Country. Over the next five years 15 priests are able to retire in the North Country and younger priests are going to retire at a younger age due to stress.” These numbers only cover the Catholic religion from the Diocese of Ogdensburg. Therefore, the closing of Catholic churches in the North Country is only a sliver of the crisis the Catholic religion faces with the international shortage of priests.

Promising and prioritizing

2009-10-26T16:22:00.001-07:00

By Kevin Stump
Remember in January when President Obama passed a 700 billion dollar stimulus bill to keep and create jobs? Certain money has been promised to Clinton County for several different projects or programs and has been granted to the states for appropriate allocations to local communities. . . Where is it?
“We provide the vehicle for networking among teachers,” said Kathy Fessette, Assistant Director of the North Country Teacher Resource Center. The Teacher Center provides professional development opportunities that are mandated by the state and necessary for teachers to maintain their certifications to teach in New York.
“If they keep cutting jobs in the education field, I am worried I wont get a job after college,” said Jacky Lonergon senior and child education major, who has used the Teacher Center throughout her time at SUNY Plattsburgh.
The North Country Teacher Resource Center is closing its doors due to the lack of funding. Money to operate the facility and its programs was an earmark included in the stimulus bill and was promised to the center by July 1st 2009, and has yet to arrive. For nearly 25 years the center has been saving a small amount of money in case of emergencies like this. However, because the money from the stimulus bill has yet to come, the Teacher Center dipped into their savings to operate and now has no money left.
“Most of the other 132 Teacher Centers in the state are borrowing from their parent organization, in hope that the money will come through and be repaid,” said Diane Bonenfant, Director of the Teacher Center. As of now the North Country Teacher Resource Center is the only center that has been given an ultimatum from their parent organization, CEWW Boces. However, of the 40 million dollars promised to the 132 centers across the state, not all of them have such a large budget of 350 thousand dollars. “All we need is a wavier saying that the money is still coming so we can open our doors again,” said Bonenfant. “People take for granted the things they have until they are gone,” she said.
The North Country Teacher Resource Center isn’t the only earmark in the stimulus bill that has been promised to Clinton County. The Lake Champlain Transportation Company has invested in the planning and engineering of a new dock for the ferry and is still expecting 2.5 million dollars come summer 2010.
“If the money doesn’t come in then time and money have been wasted,” said Vice President of the Lake Champlain Transportation Company Henry Sorrell. There is a sense of urgency in being able to provide this service, said Sorrell. As of now, there is only one dock and three boats.
The Company doesn’t actually see the money directly, it comes through the Clinton County Highway Department.
“For construction projects, the entity has to make payments and then apply for reimbursements, we don’t expect to just get the money upfront from the state,” said Highway Superintendent Albert Roscoe. Roscoe says the county has many projects that have been and are still funded by the Federal stimulus bill. They are still expecting the 2.5 million dollars from the state.
Both the North Country Teacher Resource Center and the Clinton Highway Department have been promised certain funding from the federal stimulus bill. However, the Highway Department has been granted money and is still on schedule to receive funds, but the Teacher Center is being closed down because money is held up in Albany. “I don’t think Governor Patterson understands and appreciates what it is that we do,” said NCTRC Director Bonenfant.

Food pantries prepare for winter

2009-10-26T16:20:00.000-07:00

By Jon Hochschartner
Local food pantries are facing mixed circumstances. Some volunteers say their organizations are well stocked, while others report relatively bare shelves.
Linda Young, director of the Lake Placid Ecumenical Food Pantry, falls into the latter camp.
She said that on a recent Thursday the pantry looked well stocked, but by Friday it was almost empty.
That said, Young did not sound overly concerned.
"Our program is a ministry, so it's god driven," she said. "The food comes in, the food goes out, and it comes back in. People care and they step up to the plate. "
Young said that with an average of 35 to 45 families coming in every Friday, the pantry was seeing a usage increase compared to previous years. She blamed the recession.
Betty Maus, the director of Tupper Lake Food Pantry, said her stock was below last year's. She blamed human error.
"We were kind of dissapointed about a recent drive, because the date got changed," she said. "People didn't know, (so) they didn't put stuff out to collect...We usually get somewhere around 2000 pounds of food with the Post Office drive, and we did not get that this year."
Maus said that while the numbers using the service has stayed around the same, the population has changed more toward single people than families.
Mary Ellen Kieth, the coordinator of Saint Paul's/Assumption Food Pantry, said her organization just had it's big distribution day of the month, so the pantry was not well stocked.
She said it's a month to month organization, so there was no telling how well they'd be stocked in a few weeks time. The pantry is also dealing with a theft increase from collection recepticles, and the loss of labor since Camp Gabriels' minimum security prison closed.
Keith said the numbers using the pantry have stayed relatively the same since 1980, when her organization primarily served seniors.
"The clientelle is different (now)," she said. "There are younger people. There are families that are unemployed. We've got people who are helping out their grandchildren."
Francis Paradis, director of Minerva Food Pantry, said that in terms of stock, so far she's doing "OK."
"We have a few more clients than last year," she said. "We serve approximately 50 to 55 families. I've seen a few more senior citizens comer in, but I have been making an effort to encourage them to come."
Dorothy Crawford, coordinator of Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf, said her her organization was well stocked.
"We serve about 460 households per month," she said."We haven't seen a lot of increase in the numbers because this area has been rather economically depressed to begin with...Last fall we were serving over 500 families a month. We're back to where we normally are (now)."

Teens find drugs in medicine chest, get hooked

2009-10-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

By Renee Cumm
Teens have acquired drugs from home and they have discovered them in the medicine cabinet. Adolescents may begin to look for drugs at home and then they start to search for more drugs elsewhere, according to the Director of Mental Health and Addiction, Sherri Gillette.
Gillette said that drug use isn’t a new issue but it is still prevalent. Now prescription drugs are the focus although alcohol and marijuana use is still common. Adolescents are not the majority of addicts admitted into the Department of Mental Health when compared to adults between the ages of 22 and 35 years old.
Prescription drugs or opiates such as heroin and morphine are not only extremely addictive they can be dangerous to an adolescent’s health, according to Champlain Valley Family Services Outpatient Clinic Director, Paul Lamora. Drugs can hinder an adolescent’s developmental process and stunt their maturity level, he said.
Lamora said that adolescents can easily become addicted to opiates and it is harder for them to stop using them because opiates provide an incredible feeling that they cannot escape.
“These days we see more and more kids drawn to prescription medications such as opiates and they are developing a very serious problem at a young age,” Lamora said.
Gillette said that painkillers or prescription drugs can be easily obtained by adolescents but there has not been an increase with adolescent drug abuse in the past few years.
“It’s kind of leveled off,” Gillette Said.
Results from a statewide Service Need Profile revealed that 10 percent of New York State adolescents suffer from a substance abuse disorder according to, the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services. Studies found that the primary substance of abuse of adolescents in N.Y.S. is marijuana at nearly 70 percent and nearly 3 percent abuse of opiates.
“In recent years we have seen an increase in the use of opiates, both the abuse of prescription medication and heroin,” OASAS, Adolescents Program expert, Maria Groves said in an email.
In a 2008 Clinton County survey provided by CVFS Educator, Nichole Christiansen, stated that the percentage of 10th-grade students who had ever used opiates dropped slightly. Students who had drunk alcohol or smoked marijuana also declined.
Some adolescents between 11 to 14 years old do lack self-esteem according to, the Parenting Institute of the New York University Child Study Center. Those young adults could be confronted with matters that are both appealing and hazardous to their health. Different parenting practices related to this issue have been found to determine a child’s success, adjustment, health and mental health. As a child transitions through the adolescent years they need to be guided and parents need to actively participate in the child’s life according to, “Facts and Tips for Managing the Middle School Years”, provided by, the Corporate Council of Child Care Incorporated.
“Sometimes parents play a role in enabling their children,” Lamora said.
Sometimes a drug abuser will try to justify their abuse disorder if the drug is prescribed. It is also possible to have genetic markers or a learned behavior for addiction. Drug abuse disorders can be passed down to a child from the parent, Gillette said.
If an adolescent from Clinton County has shown signs of a substance abuse disorder they can be referred to CVFS where they would engage with other adolescents whom also suffer from such disorders. Adolescents would work with the councilors to identify what triggers them to do drugs and they work to find ways to help them to stop using drugs, Lamora said.
“When you see a decline in drug use it’s because of long term preventative measures,” Christiansen said.
Given an all-embracing commitment to adolescents whom suffer with a substance abuse disorder, the number of adolescents seeking help for disorders could continue to decrease.

Blowing in the wind

2009-10-26T16:17:00.001-07:00

By Lindsay Blair
Residents and officials in Plattsburgh maintain positive attitudes towards wind energy, despite continued opposition to wind projects in Beekmantown.
A recent report in the Press Republican outlined the problems facing proposed wind farm project in the area. The West Beekmantown Neighborhood Association expressed opposition toward the project proposed by Penn Energy LLC from its inception, according to the Press Republican.
Surrounding areas of Plattsburgh already host one of New York State’s largest wind farms at Maple Ridge farm, two hours southwest of the city and there are four wind farms in total operating state-wide. The “clean” power generated from these renewable energy sources is enough to power 90,000 homes, according to a spokesperson from the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.
There are currently 43 wind farms in New York State, with three in the Plattsburgh area. Plans to build more wind farms in the northern and western areas outside of the city are being considered, according to Bernie Bassett, Plattsburgh Town Supervisor.
“There are a number of plans for windmills in progress and we have had research projects underway for six months to see if anywhere locally was suitable for further windmill sites,” said Bassett.
Bassett said that there is only a small area for wind farms now as many of the proposed sites for turbines are not the best use of the land. He said that Plattsburgh officials are always looking for other sources to provide renewable energy to the Adirondack region and the city hall is looking to collaborate with Clinton Community College who have the only certified wind turbine course.
“It (renewable energy) is a priority,” he said, “We are looking at the long term gain.”
But Environmental science professor at Plattsburgh State, David Franzi, said that the power generated from renewable energy sources provides only ten percent of the overall power needed.
“None of the resources that are currently available are capable of producing the amount of power that could successfully substitute for fossil fuel or nuclear.
“They (renewable sources) all contribute and they are all things that ought to be done, but it’s something around only ten percent of the power that we need,” said Franzi.
Although Franzi said that wind energy is a beneficial alternate resource, he said that the aesthetics are not something he finds attractive, but something that he and others have to live with, “I understand the need for them just like I understand the need for transmission lines, I don’t like the look of them either but I know that they bring the electricity we use. So I live with them,”
“If we don’t mind living in a continuous wind farm then you could develop more (turbines) but even so it is not nearly as efficient as some of the nuclear or fossil fuel burning plants so something has to happen. Either the tech has to get a whole lot better, which it likely will improve or we are going to have to find some other sources,” he said.
The need for alternate sources, as well as wind power is something that Bassett agrees with, “Technology is changing and we have to look for additional other sources,” the town supervisor said.
However, residents of Plattsburgh are not opposed to wind turbines in the area. Barry Raffle, a banker in downtown Plattsburgh said, “I support it, it is cost effective and it makes sense environmentally.”
“I think using wind to create electricity is a wonderful idea. I have always wondered how the turbines work,” said shop owner, Devin LaFave.
There are some who, like the residents of West Beekmantown are less in favor of the turbines, “I don’t want it in my backyard, that is all I will say,” said one Plattsburgh resident who did not wish to be named. But the “not in my backyard” attitude is something that is seen often, but also something that is dying down, according to Bassett.
“I think aesthetics have a lot to do with it (opposition), there are a lot of other concerns; ice falling off the blades in the winter time, bats and birds getting injured,” said Franzi.
The use of wind turbines is a cost effective means, according to Franzi, who said that the people leasing their land for the use of wind farms are making money out of it.
“Nobody does anything unless they can make money out of it, people aren’t building wind farms because they want to save the environment, they’re building wind farms because they want to make money,” he said.
Penn Energy Trust LLC, who is responsible for the management of wind farms in northern New York State, said on their website (http://www.pennrealestategroup.com/penn-energy-trust.htm). “Each project is designed to earn the support and trust of the stakeholders involved - including the members of the residential, political and business communities. Smart design eliminates likely sources of objection by considering the project from the perspective of all involved. Support is generally found for a well-conceived and well-designed project.” But when asked about opposition to wind projects in the North Country, they declined to comment.
“There’s not been a lot of opposition really from people in our municipality,” said Bassett, “Stereotype (beliefs on wind turbines) don’t belong in our area,” he said.

Fall produce is winner in recession

2009-09-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

By Leah Breyette
In today’s tight economy, frugality and practicality are common practices that millions of people follow. The recession has led to people making financial sacrifices in order to make ends meet- from skipping annual vacations, shopping at secondhand stores, to even switching their choice of grocery store, and ultimately, produce provider. With the rest of the nation’s economy at a decrease, at least one part is still going strong. The local produce business is thriving, which goes to show no matter how rough times are, some industries remain immune.
Seasonal produce are fruits and vegetables that grow best during a specific season. In the fall, seasonal produce consists of apples, pumpkins, and squash, to name a few. The fall is also a time when local orchards open up to sell their produce, among other things, for the season. “I’ve always come to the orchards to buy my fall produce,” said Jerie Reid, a Clinton County Resident. It’s working out even better this year because their prices are so reasonable for such good-quality produce, and I’ve had to cut back on how much I spend on groceries with the economy being the way it is.” Jerie’s mother, Janet, had a similar opinion on local produce. “I buy as much produce I can outside of the grocery store, especially in the fall. I take advantage of having so many local produce providers in the area. Knowing who grew your food and being able to put a face to a name is really nice.”
The poor economy seems to show no effect on the local produce business. “Our produce business is doing much better this year than last year. As for customers, we’ve been excelling in numbers the past 6 weekends,” said Patricia Sheehan, an employee at Rulf’s Orchards. “We’ve been very fortunate this year.” A similar opinion is shared with another local orchard. “Our produce is selling great. Our business is still as busy as it’s always been, and we have great prices- the recession hasn’t stopped people from coming in and buying a bag of apples,” said Layla Sullivan, owner of Banker’s Orchards. Although it is uncertain if there is a direct correlation between the nation’s poor economic status and the excellent business local produce providers are receiving this year, it is definite that these providers are at least one type of business that the poor economy has not taken its toll on. “Even though the number of crops we have this year is down from last year, that doesn’t stop our customers from coming,” said Sullivan. “We still have plenty of produce.”
Local produce offers many great benefits that grocery stores cannot. It is locally grown, fresh, and comes with an affordable price tag to top it off. In the North Country, fall orchards are a popular attraction, which also helps the local economy. According to Clinton County resident Alyssa Seymour, “even if the prices of this produce were increased, I would still buy it- it supports our economy and it’s tradition.”