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Opinions

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YOUR VIEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Health care fiasco deserves some answers

TINA RUSSELL / OBSERVER-DISPATCH

Melinda Graniela, 19, of New Hartford, pauses at a ribbon tied around a tree on the New Hartford Village Green in memory of Alexandra Kogut, who was murdered in September 2012 by her boyfriend, Clayton Whittemore. Graniela dated Whittemore when she was just 15, and said that their relationship, too, was a stormy one. In the wake of Kogut’s murder, Graniela decided to speak up in an effort to help other victims of domestic violence.

NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE Talk to your children today about relationships and what to do about it when things go sour

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ost teenage romances usually end with broken hearts, not broken bones. But when relationships turn ugly, tragedy might not be far away. We saw that in 2012 when 18-year-old Alexandra Kogut of New Hartford was beaten to death by her boyfriend, Clayton Whittemore, in her college dorm room. He was found guilty of second-degree murder May 30 and is due to be sentenced Tuesday, although late last week his defense said it was seeking a new trial. The Kogut murder was a wake-up call for Melinda Graniela, who also had dated Whittemore and said he had abused her, too. They shouted and shoved each other when arguing, and, she said in a recent interview, he once put her in a chokehold. She thought such a relationship was normal. It’s not. And if you haven’t discussed that with your child, don’t wait any longer. What they don’t know can hurt them. Or worse. Teenage love — or what they think is love — is a part of growing up. For kids, it can be euphoric, the most important thing in their lives. But it can go sour, and when it does, things can get messy. Kids being kids often can’t find their way out, and that’s when things can go from bad to worse. And, in the case of Alexandra Kogut, to worst. Domestic violence is very real — in all kinds of relationships — and raising awareness is critical. That’s why you need to talk to your children. And don’t wait. In an O-D report last month, Katie Ray-Jones, president and acting CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline, said children need to learn at a much younger age – 9 or 10, before they even begin dating — that any kind of verbal, emotional or physical abuse is not normal and must not be tolerated. And difficult as it might be to short-circuit an abusive relationship, your kids need to know that they can — and should — by seeking help immediately. There is plenty of help out there. Parents should be the first line of defense, but in cases where, for whatever reason, that connection isn’t comfortable there’s plenty of outside help. ä Ray-Jones’ group has a project, LoveIsRespect.org, where victims can call a 24-hotline for a live chat with peer advocates. The number is 866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522. ä In Oneida County, call the YWCA Mohawk Valley at 797-7740. The Y has many programs to raise

WARNING SIGNS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Dating abuse is a pattern of destructive behaviors used to exert power and control over a dating partner. Here are some warning signs that might indicate your relationship is heading in the wrong direction:

I would like to know when our country became communistic? We are told that we have to enroll in Medicare when we become old enough and we are informed that we need a secondary insurance to help pay what Medicare doesn’t. Then I call my secondary insurance company as some doctors will not accept Medicare. They inform me that the doctor has to write them and inform them as to what he treated me for with the bill and it is up to the insurance company if they will pay for it. I also found out the state of New York passed this bill, giving the insurance company the right to refuse to pay. Is this ethical? Why have I paid in on a health insurance plan for 25 years and they decide whether or not I deserve coverage. A copy of this letter will be going to our state legislators, so if I get a reply, I’ll be glad to share it with other taxpayers. AL SEELMAN Marcy

Kent Bush column on Boehner is way off base I am taking exception to Kent Bush’s July 15 column and the O-D publishing it. Why does Bush think that John Boehner and the majority of the people of the country oppose the president’s policies and orders? When the president of the U.S tells us he is remaking the greatest country in the world he is wrong. None of his policies or orders do one thing to lower energy costs or lower the trade deficit or unemployment or debt or welfare rolls or taxes. It’s quite the opposite. To criticize any elected official or the public for understanding and opposing the decline of their country is un-American. JOSEPH KIERPIEC Rome

Checking your cellphone or email without permission. Constantly putting you down or intentionally embarrassing you in public. Extreme jealousy, possessiveness or insecurity.

ONLINE COMMENTS

Explosive temper and mood swings. Telling you what to do. Isolating you from family or friends. Using online communities or cellphones to control, intimidate or humiliate you. Physically hurting you, from pushing and pulling you to throwing something at you. Repeatedly pressuring you to have sex.

READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM

POLL: NY to change signs for disabled access to help remove the stigma attached to the word ‘handicapped.’ PUBLISHED JULY 28

ENDING AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP You might feel pressure from your friends and family to just break up and move on, but it’s never that simple. Your abusive partner might not accept the breakup or respect your boundaries. They might try to control you through guilt trips, threats or insults. Here are some things to keep in mind when thinking about breaking up: Realize this behavior is wrong, do not accept or make excuses for your partner’s abusive behavior and talk to an adult, friend or family member that you trust. ä

Avoid being alone with your partner and try to make sure that other people are around when you’re together. If you’re alone with your partner, make sure that someone knows where you are and when you’ll return. ä

If you don’t feel safe, don’t break up in person. It might seem cruel to break up over the phone or by email, but it could be the safest way. If you break up in person, do it in a public place and have friends or your parents wait nearby. Try to take a cellphone with you. ä

Don’t try to explain your reasons for ending the relationship more than once. There is nothing you can say that will make your ex happy. ä

ä

Let your friends and parents know you are

awareness to domestic abuse. ä In Herkimer County, call 8660458. That’s Catholic Charities of Herkimer County. It, too, provides assistance to domestic violence victims or those who suspect it. ä The Purple Pinkie Charitable Foundation is another resource. Visit its web site: www.purplepinkie.org, or facebook.com/purplepinkiecharitablefoundation.

ending your relationship, especially if you think your ex will come to your house or confront you when you’re alone. The person you’re dating probably has become a huge part of your life, so being scared about feeling lonely after the breakup is normal. Talking to friends or finding new activities can make filling your new free time easier. ä

Even if your partner has been abusive and controlling, it’s normal to miss them. Try writing down the reasons you want to end your relationship and keep them as a reminder for later on. ä

If your partner is controlling and jealous, they might make a lot of decisions for you. It can take time to adjust to making your own decisions again. If you start to feel helpless or overwhelmed, tap into your support system of friends, family, teachers or coworkers. ä

If you are scared to end your relationship, take that fear seriously. Develop a safety plan to think through the dangerous situations you may encounter. ä

Save any threatening or harassing messages your ex sends, and set your profile to private on social networking sites and ask friends to do the same. ä

SOURCE: WWW.LOVEIRESPECT.ORG

Graniela’s eyes were opened to domestic violence after the Kogut murder. She was just 15 when she dated Whittemore and at the time figured she could handle what she now identifies as abuse. She said she made excuses for Whittemore’s behavior because she knew his father reportedly abused him as a child. There are no excuses. Talk to your kids today and tell them that.

COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. DAVE DUDAJEK RON JOHNS MATT BECKER TERRY CASCIOLI Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Managing Editor, 792-5008, Sports Editor, 792-5030, Publisher, 792-5002, [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

I mean come on, is this really top priority Cuomo? April Narsasian

Waste of tax dollars! Lorri Hedman McCulloch

Sure why not. If it makes them feel better, go for it. You may not be in their shoes but maybe they should have “fat” parking spaces or “blonde” parking spaces. Then maybe people would understand. Half of everyone that says it’s a waste of tax dollars probably either don’t pay taxes because they don’t own anything or they have no clue what their dollars go to even if you asked them. Lighten up people. Greg Morra

Waste of money. Monica Famolaro Welpe

They give anyone with an ache or pain a parking permit. I’ve seen perfectly healthy people use them while someone with an actual disability has nowhere to park. Take time to fix that problem. Andy Lamica

Speaking as one who has a handicapped permit due to multiple health problems, it’s an unnecessary waste of tax dollars. By the way, not all physical handicaps are visible. Be careful about judging people. Phyllis Myers Mills

I’d much rather see money go into cracking down on SSI and SSDI fraud; so much state money would be saved. I had a neighbor on it for his back, yet he was able to shovel his driveway, fix his house and even help other neighbors push their cars when they got stuck in the snow. Either my report was ignored or there aren’t enough people available to research them all. Sarah Mudge

Will it help stop people from parking in handicapped parking places? Those places have become a joke. And so have the signs in some people’s cars. Wil Nier

I have a disease that will likely earn me a handicap space as I get older. I also have family members who are handicapped, and nobody gets offended by that term. There are more serious things to worry about than someone’s feelings. It’s not a bad stigma, really. Now to work on people who don’t have stickers who park in those places … Christian Mathis

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uticaod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can comment on stories by signing in with your Facebook or LinkedIn account. Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Comments selected are based on story popularity and writer clarity on the subject. While writers who post comments are identified with their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of publication.

Opinions


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OBSERVER-DISPATCH | THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

OUR VIEW

Investigate museum mess

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eeling back the layers at Utica’s Children’s Museum uncovers more and more dysfunction, and it’s time now for an investigation by the state attorney general’s office. Only a disinterested third party can sift through this mess and try to restore public confidence in an operation that should be one of our community’s most valuable assets. Sadly, over the past few years, the museum operation has unraveled. ä In 2011, the museum’s board of directors believed they had handed over a 60 percent share of the building at 311 Main St. to director Marlene Brown to compensate her for back pay. Brown has a document from 2007 agreeing to waive her salary until the museum gained financial footing. But unbeknownst to the parties involved, the paperwork sealing the deal was never completed. ä Since the building debacle, the board has split into two factions, each challenging the other’s control. One faction, headed by Chris Gordon, has suspended Brown and moved to obtain control over museum bank accounts and financial records. That was rejected by the banks due to the confusion, said Gordan, noting

that he has determined that the museum has at least eight accounts at two local banks and a PayPal account. The other faction, chaired by Celia Domser, maintains confidence in Brown and wants to restore financial control to her. ä Last week, more financial questions cropped up over use of an $11,670 Community Foundation grant for carpeting. Emails appear to show that Brown linked the granting of a carpeting contract to museum donations. Brown denies that, saying Gordon fabricated the emails. She claims to have canceled checks for the entire $11,670 proving she paid that price, but did not respond to O-D requests to see those canceled checks. Checks made to a roofer who did work at the museum may reveal other irregularities. Paul Miscione, a board member who sides with Gordon, said there’s no way to know what happened without looking at the museum’s financial documents. The whole thing is quite curious. Given the accusations, denials, split factions and other unknowns, this fiasco is best left to impartial authorities who can do a thorough investigation and determine just what is going on at Utica’s Children’s Museum.

COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. DAVE DUDAJEK ELLEN LEIFELD Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Interim Publisher, 792-5002, [email protected] [email protected]

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RON JOHNS Managing Editor, 792-5008, [email protected]

CARTOONISTS VIEW

YOUR VIEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Misinformation carries the day in the valley I was amused and angered by two local news reports April 11 on proposed mergers. One was the result of a failed merger of Herkimer High School; the second a potential merger of Herkimer College, stymied by the narrow-mindedness of the Herkimer County Legislature – a merger killed before it even had the benefit of a thoughtful public debate. Both merger failures have a common thread: a few loud and misinformed voices driving the final outcome. The school merger – approved in a straw vote — was defeated in the vote that mattered primarily because misrepresentations were made by a small, loud group of dissenters who came out of the woodwork at the last minute with impending-doom stories about losing identity and independence (with no consideration for significant economic and quality-of-education issues involved). Photos of Herkimer students carrying large, tombstone-shaped placards decrying “RIP Herkimer High School” and “RIP Quality Education” now tell the story of the terrible outcome of that decision. Now, different voices – still loud and misinformed – have predetermined the outcome of a potential merger of Herkimer College with Mohawk Valley Community College by using the same “identity and independence” argument. No public debate, just continued insolence, demonstrated by a Herkimer County Legislature intent on avoiding its responsibility to consider cost-effective expansion of local educational capacity and opportunity. JOSEPH M. BELMONT Frankfort

ONLINE COMMENTS

R E A D E R O P I N I O N S C O M P I L E D F R O M S T O R I E S P U B L I S H E D AT U T I C A O D . C O M .

GUEST VIEW: Mum’s the word on teacher evaluations PUBLISHED APRIL 12

Very well said, Dr. Metallo! You present a number of questions that Gov. Cuomo has been dancing around. Cuomo’s behavior has been “his way or the highway” for school districts to adopt the teacher evaluations and student testing. Like a bully, he threatened to withhold funding if school districts (and on other issues, CSEA and PEF unions) didn’t do things his way. Now he’s looking at how he can be “accountable” and still come out smelling like a rose. Does he think we all forgot about his funding cuts and employee work reductions? I don’t think so. Gail Barnum Ashmore

Cuomo is just waiting to see which way the wind is blowing before he

takes a position. He has no ideology or vision other than jumping on whatever bandwagon will get him reelected. He thought he could ride the hate for teachers through Election Day but now that the momentum for that is waning, he’s not sure what his next political move should be. If the tests are fair game for teacher evaluations then why are teachers forbidden from disclosing the passages and questions that they are critical of? The answer is that the truth will kill the agenda of those who want to continue to blame teachers for all the ills affecting student progress on these tests. I’m not holding my breath for Cuomo to really tell us where he stands with any of this — because he can’t. He’s waiting for Gates or Tisch or some other billionaire to tell him where he stands on this and then he will weigh their support against the potential backlash of the

hundreds of thousands of teachers and their mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, daughters and sons who will vote in the next election. Jane Myers

STORY: Stephen Colbert to replace Letterman PUBLISHED APRIL 11

As much as I like Letterman, it’s time for some new blood. I think Colbert is a very good choice. Bill Ellenwood

Another mistake like the Leno replacement. Leonard Montana

Hate him. Kelly Fettes Dewolfe

Love Colbert! Ellie Hadity

We prefer you send letters by email. That shortens the length of time it takes to publication. Send them to [email protected]. ä When email is not an option, letters may be sent by conventional mail to Letters, The Observer-Dispatch, 221 Oriskany Plaza, Utica, NY 13501, faxed to 315-792-5033, or delivered in person. ä You must include your name, address, home phone number and a daytime number where you can be reached for verification of your letter. We keep numbers and addresses confidential. Failure to include this information, however, could result in your letter not being published. ä Keep letters to 200 words. Shorter letters are even better. ä Letters should be in good taste and should advance the discussion of important public issues. All letters are subject to editing – for language, spelling and length. ä Writers are allowed one letter every 30 days. ä

When my wife and I moved to this area in 2000, we found the New Hartford Public Library to be the “jewel” in the features which enriched our lives. Its scope, warmth and professionalism made it so appealing, for several years it was the major recipient of our donations to local institutions. In recent months, the O-D has published a number of articles pointing to alleged

New Hartford

Volunteers make all the difference National Volunteer Week was marked April 6-12, and the American Heart Association would like to celebrate the important work of our dedicated volunteers. This year, our advocacy volunteers in You’re The Cure celebrated the passage of the Pulse Oximetry Law in New York, which protects the smallest hearts in our community from congenital heart defects, the most common birth defect. Volunteers did that! Our Go Red For Women and National Wear Red Day volunteers ensured that hundreds women around the Mohawk Valley received lifesaving information and tools to help raise awareness and encourage action to prevent women’s number one and three killers, heart disease and stroke. Volunteers did that! Volunteers involved in America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk help thousands of walkers and runners get moving, get healthy, and raise more than $1 million in the fight against heart disease and stroke. Our volunteer board of directors and committees have led the way to creating continued and meaningful American Heart Association programs in our community. Volunteers are doing that! This list is by no means exhaustive. We are grateful for all the volunteers who share their time and expertise in support of our life-saving mission. We know they have heart! DICK MATTIA Executive director, Utica Region American Heart Association

YOUR VIEW

POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM

New Hartford is the latest municipality to ban smoking at town playgrounds. Do you approve?

Who is he? Wil Nier


LETTER GUIDELINES

Library has been a community jewel

mismanagement of the library, even chastising its leaders editorially. The publication of valuable library events for readers of all ages have not seen much newsprint. We have been privileged to become friends with many of the men and women who have given generously of their time, talent and treasure to the continuation of the library. My experience in local politics taught me that there can be a goal of publicity, as well as expressions of reform of perceived problems. It seems there is a need to carefully consider these two objectives. DAVID K. MAHONEY

DOONESBURY, By Gary Trudeau

63% Yes. Parks and playgrounds are for fresh air. 35% No. It’s unfair to smokers. 2% Do e-cigarettes count? CAST YOUR VOTE DAILY ON THE UTICAOD.COM HOMEPAGE

‘THEY SAID IT’ QUOTES FROM THE PAGES OF THE O-D

“We have a six-year deal with them. They couldn’t pull out even if they were upset.” ROB ESCHE – Utica Comets president, discussing team’s commitment.

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Opinions


OBSERVER-DISPATCH | TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

OUR VIEW

Close museum, fix problems

O

wning up to violations and other miscues at Utica’s Children’s Museum is like a game of hot potato. Those responsible are passing blame from one to another while the situation continues to disintegrate in the shadow of an investigation of the whole operation by the Oneida County District Attorney’s office. One thing is clear: The museum should be closed until the latest problems are rectified. On top of a dysfunctional board of directors that has split into two factions and the DA’s investigation into the museum’s financial transactions are fire and codes violations that could compromise the safety of a place that hosts children. A recent Observer-Dispatch review of Utica fire and codes department files on the facility at 311 Main Street found: ä No record of any fire inspection in the past 10 years, though state law requires them either annually or every three years, depending on the size of the building. ä No record of a certificate of occupancy. ä An unaddressed codes violation from 2008 for problems with cracks and separating brick-

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work on the west side of the building. ä No record of elevator inspections since 2012, though they are required every six months. In addition, a metal fire escape on its west side is questionable. A wooden fence crosses no more than two feet from the foot of the escape, and dry, dead leaves have collected in the area. Fire Chief Russell Brooks would not say whether it’s in violation because he had not seen it. But he did say that fire escapes “are not to be blocked in any way, shape or manner.” Who’s to blame for lack of attention to this facility doesn’t matter when it comes to the safety of children who visit there. One can only speculate on the horror of children being trapped in this building by a fire or other problem. The codes and fire departments have scheduled inspections for next Monday. It’s shameful that it has taken so long, and thankfully a tragedy has not occurred there. If it hasn’t done so already, the city should immediately close this building and it should not be re-opened until it is deemed in compliance of all codes and is given a certificate of occupancy. To keep it open at this point is the height of irresponsibility.

COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. DAVE DUDAJEK RON JOHNS Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Managing Editor, 792-5008, [email protected] [email protected]

CARTOONISTS VIEW

GUEST VIEW

Karam case filled with more emotion than facts or law BY DAVID BOOKSTAVER The Observer-Dispatch has printed a series of articles detailing the almost four-year history of litigation in the case of Patricia Karam v. St. Elizabeth Medical Center, including a three-week trial that resulted in a verdict in favor of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center and its doctors. Since that verdict, the Karam family has been seeking a new trial based upon a secretly recorded conversation by a Karam family member. Supreme Court Justice Bernadette Clark denied the Karams a new trial because the tape was hearsay, double hearsay and inherently unreliable. In your most recent article, you included a quote from the Karam family that was not only misleading but just plain wrong. Justice Clark never contacted the press. I did — as part of my job as the communications director for the New York state court system. In fact, many of the articles over the past four years have included statements based more on emotion than the facts and the law. Despite the Karams’ contention that justice has been denied, this case and in particular Justice Clark’s decisions have now been reviewed three times by the Appellate Division — by a

total of eight different judges of the Appellate Division, Fourth Department — as well as by the New York Court of Appeals, the highest court in this state, which have denied the Karams leave to appeal. All of these judges have reached the very same conclusion: that the Karams’ various claims lack merit. After Justice Clark denied their request for a new trial, the Karams responded by asking for a new judge. However, judges can only recuse themselves from a case under very specific circumstances. In fact, judges have a duty to remain on a case even when being pressured or threatened. On May 2, almost a year after Justice Clark issued her decision, the Appellate Division, Fourth Department once again unanimously agreed to deny the Karams’ request for recusal. This decision by a neutral appellate court speaks for itself. As Justice Clark wrote in her decision, “In the end, this is nothing more than a last-ditch, desperate attempt to breathe life into a case that the jury, the Appellate Division and the New York State Court of Appeals has already decided has no merit.” David Bookstaver is communications director for the New York State Unified Court System.

YOUR VIEWS

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Irving Berlin’s masterful works transcend time

ONLINE COMMENTS

READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM.

STORY: Nation’s report card: No gains for 12th graders PUBLISHED MAY 7

Perhaps we should be asking what we as parents are doing to support our children’s education. How are we as parents instilling work ethic in our children? Audrey Sabino Cucci

Audrey, excellent response. I wish more people recognized that the problem typically exists at home not in school. Jason Tallman

Maybe we should also realize that the concept of “no child left behind” has left educators trying to increase graduation rates without the aid of proportional increased staffing or funding. This has left the students who have the potential to learn more and do better not learning more or doing better, since the

educators don’t have the extra resources available to channel into improved education. Michelle Roberts

STORY: Halbritter, NY lawmakers denounce Redskins name PUBLISHED MAY 7

I can think of much more important things to spend their time on! Non issue. Brian and Lynnette Wyman

New York lawmakers should not be cozying up with Halbritter for any reason given his treatment of residents of the State of New York. Matthew Trey

Why isn’t he after the Oriskany Redskins to change their mascot? Not enough publicity? JoAnn Mineo-Freeland

Since when is a football team’s

name in another state an issue for New York lawmakers to worry about? Edward M Fiore

Our roads are full of holes, our schools have no books, there are no jobs and they are worried about the Redskins name? Carl Ciecko

Funny how the NBA jumped all over the Clippers owner for being racist against African Americans, yet all the same people are OK with the NFL’s Redskins being blatantly racist against Native Americans. Tim Masters

Any lawmakers that back this will not get my vote. Robert DeLeonardo

I agree. Any politicians that get involved in New York state need to be voted out of office. They are in office to solve real problems.

We prefer you send letters by email. That shortens the length of time it takes to publication. Send them to [email protected]. ä When email is not an option, letters may be sent by conventional mail to Letters, The Observer-Dispatch, 221 Oriskany Plaza, Utica, NY 13501, faxed to 315-792-5033, or delivered in person. ä You must include your name, address, home phone number and a daytime number where you can be reached for verification of your letter. We keep numbers and addresses confidential. Failure to include this information, however, could result in your letter not being published. ä Keep letters to 200 words. Shorter letters are even better. ä Letters should be in good taste and should advance the discussion of important public issues. All letters are subject to editing – for language, spelling and length. ä Writers are allowed one letter every 30 days. ä

YOUR VIEW

POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM


Little Falls

‘THEY SAID IT’

Do you think the deadly attack in Benghazi that killed U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Americans will affect the 2016 presidential election?

“I wanted to see something beautiful.”

60% Yes. The attack could have been prevented if security warnings were heeded. 40% No. It’s all political rhetoric. By the time the election gets here there will be new scandals to focus on.

GAYLE PARTYKA – Barneveld woman who spent her Mother’s Day with her daughter visiting the historic and scenic Trenton Falls.

Shirley Stafford- Copperwheat


LETTER GUIDELINES

Through a window came the clear powerful voice of Kate Smith singing “God Bless America” by Irving Berlin, alias Israel Issidore Beilin. Survivors of a pogrom in Russia, his family emigrated to the U.S. to the lower east side of Manhattan, that ethnic cauldron of Jews, Irish, Italians and Germans. Like most immigrants at that time and in that place, Izzy’s family had it tough. Forced to shift for himself at age 8, he sold newspapers on the docks, worked as a singing waiter and slept where he could — in stairwells, on

stoops and elsewhere.Unlike so many others, Izzy eventually made it big time through his musical talents and perseverance. However, he never forgot where he came from, visiting old neighborhood friends and places he had worked. He also remembered the country that gave him his opportunity. When his financial adviser suggested that he need not pay all that money to the IRS, Izzy told him that he owed all that he had to this country. So in this age of the artful dodge, overseas tax havens and tax shelters, here’s to the 126th anniversary of Izzy’s birthday, which was May 11. He knew something about gratitude. J. THOMAS PENDERGAST

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QUOTES FROM THE PAGES OF THE O-D

Opinions

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OUR VIEW

Museum fix multifaceted

U

tica’s Children’s Museum needs to fix more than fire and codes violations before it reopens its doors. In addition to rectifying the safety issues, museum leaders need to regain public trust by getting its fiscal house in order — and that can come only after an investigation by the Oneida County District Attorney’s office is completed. The museum was closed nearly six months ago after an Observer-Dispatch review of Utica fire and codes department files on the facility found that there was no record of any fire inspection there in the past 10 years. State law requires them either annually or every three years, depending on the size of the building. An inspection of the five-story building by city fire and codes officials later found a number of problems, including a partially corroded sprinkler system that had not been checked by a certified inspector for several years, improper installation of wiring and flammable debris in the basement.

Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks said that his department has been working with the museum to ensure that violations are properly remedied, but there still is more to be done. The fix needs to go beyond bricks and mortar. Prior to the fire and codes issues, the museum had been under scrutiny for possible financial and administrative irregularities. In March, it was reported that the board had improperly attempted to give Director Marlene Brown a 60 percent share of the museum building — valued at about $500,000 — to compensate for back pay. That transaction, which would have violated state nonprofit laws, was not completed. Questions also were raised regarding Brown’s handling of grant funds and other museum finances. Add to that a dysfunctional board — earlier this spring it was in disarray when it split into pro/con factions. Hopefully, results of the DA’s investigation — not yet completed — will help settle these issues. Either way, the board and leadership will need to be reorganized in order for the museum to survive.

COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS TERRY CASCIOLI Publisher, 792-5002, [email protected]

O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. RON JOHNS DAVE DUDAJEK MATT BECKER Executive Editor, 792-5004, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Sports Editor, 792-5030, [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

CARTOONISTS VIEW

OBSERVER-DISPATCH | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2014 |

YOUR VIEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Prison assaults often go unreported Acting Department of Corrections Commissioner Anthony Annucci told the press the department investigates each staff assault vigorously. That is not true. The department doesn’t want the public to know what is going on in the prisons. It pays lip service to this issue. In 2003, I retired from the department. Since I arrived at Oneida Correctional Facility — now closed — I personally solved five inmate-on-inmate assaults. I was able to get the perpetrator to give written confessions with Miranda warnings in the confessions. Each confession was upheld in court and convictions resulted. In 2000, I was informed by the superintendent not to give Miranda warnings in the investigations any longer. He told me this was directed by Albany. I never did another criminal investigation. I am a former police officer and have never lost a case in court. It was clear to me the department wanted to keep a lid on what goes on in the prisons. It is not at all serious about the issue of officer safety in any form. WALTER E. BEVERLY III Rome

System leaves little guy in the dark

ONLINE COMMENTS

R E A D E R O P I N I O N S C O M P I L E D F R O M S T O R I E S P U B L I S H E D AT U T I C A O D . C O M .

EDITORIAL: Community must act to save Stanley; what do you think could help turn a profit? PUBLISHED NOV. 9

Show classic movies like did several years ago. In fact, I sent the Stanley a Facebook post sometime ago to consider showing the movie “Ramona,” the first movie ever shown there. It was previously a “lost film,” but had been recently discovered and restored; I think the idea was just brushed aside. David Kukowski

I agree with David! The Capitol Theatre does something similar in Rome. Let the people vote on the films and have a series — either over the winter or summer or both. Try to generate interest and use among colleges in the area by showcasing local musical talents. You don’t need to spend a ton on big-name artists to generate interest. It’s about promotion and making it something fun to do … Jefferson Lightset

Lower the prices so people who can’t afford to attend can start going. There are too many empty seats at events that don’t have to be. Caren Price

Better shows and concerts tap into the younger generation that make up the city population and lower prices a touch. Eric Smith

I don’t mind paying the price for quality entertainment and I have been in theaters around the U.S. I have never seen another theater where the ushers are parading noisily with late arrivals up and down the aisles throughout the show. It spoils the show for those who respect the theater experience. There’s also very little control of the cell phones and video recording during the shows. Nancy Crisino

Allow other groups to have time to use it. Be open minded, advertising with local radio programs of different languages. Spanish, Bosnian, Polish

and more. Adolfo Cova

Play movies for discounted rates, like with an all-season pass, and open a concession stand. Rosa Yaromich

If people aren’t going there is a reason. Either pricing is too high or the quality of the content is low. I have lived in Utica almost 10 years and have never been to the Stanley. I have been to the Capitol Theatre in Rome numerous times. Start providing a mix of content. Do nights of low priced events, such as classic movie double features as well as high quality theater productions. I bet if “Wicked” would have been at the Stanley, it would have sold out. I would have gone. Once you have mix of content, promote it! If you can’t figure it out then the place needs to close; taxpayers don’t need the burden of supporting another failing business.

LETTER GUIDELINES We prefer you send letters by email. That shortens the length of time it takes to publication. Send them to [email protected]. ä When email is not an option, letters may be sent by conventional mail to Letters, The Observer-Dispatch, 221 Oriskany Plaza, Utica, NY 13501, faxed to 315-792-5033, or delivered in person. ä You must include your name, address, home phone number and a daytime number where you can be reached for verification of your letter. We keep numbers and addresses confidential. Failure to include this information, however, could result in your letter not being published. ä Keep letters to 200 words. Shorter letters are even better. ä Letters should be in good taste and should advance the discussion of important public issues. All letters are subject to editing – for language, spelling and length. ä Writers are allowed one letter every 30 days. ä

Have you noticed that certain people will cry “class warfare” whenever someone speaks about the needs of the nonwealthy? It is hardly a war when the wealthiest top 10 percent possess over 80 percent of all financial assets. They control the wealth, resources, media, and politics. The wealthiest succeed in distracting us from these gross inequities through control of entertainment, professional sports, consumerism, manipulating religious beliefs, fear, and scapegoating the least powerful. What is most disheartening is that those in control of the resources and the media have succeeded in turning the middle class against the poor and the disabled. They then have the audacity to cry “class warfare” should anyone take a close look at how the empowered gain and retain control of all the resources, money, power and influence in this country. Tax breaks and financial incentives are for the wealthy and for enormous corporations. Politicians crow about what little tidbits they give to the middle class, and conceal the immeasurable advantages they provide to the chosen few. If there is a war, it is not a fair fight. It is made worse by a system that

gives people little reason to use the one weapon they have — the vote. PETER W. ANTONOWICZ Rome

Morrisville meeting on fracking issue Last month there was a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) meeting in Madison County regarding a proposed natural gas compressor station in Georgetown. The compressor project would essentially be for fracked gas from Pennsylvania much of which is planned for export. One purpose of FERC is to “protect the public and energy customers.” However, in a country where we are supposed to have rights we find out instead that the intent of FERC was to limit public concerns on an issue that can affect our health, safety, property values; and peace and quiet. FERC has now decided it will hold an additional public meeting on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Morrisville-Eaton Middle/High School Auditorium, 5061 Fearon Rd., Morrisville. The purpose of this meeting is to receive comments on the proposed Georgetown compressor site, including “alternative site locations under consideration.” So, if the gas industry doesn’t get their dangerous and unsuitable project in Georgetown, they will simply try to move their proposal over to the next community. Therefore, if you don’t want this compressor in your back yard, or anyone’s, it is very important to attend this meeting. CHERYL CARY Canastota

Syracuse soccer team a sleeping giant The Syracuse men’s soccer team (15-2-1) deserves some coverage in the O-D. The O-D does a great job covering Syracuse football and basketball and this is an opportunity to give another sport some well earned exposure. They attained the number 1 ranking in the nation on Nov. 4 for the first time in school history. This is a big deal for the school and the northeast because most No. 1 teams come from other areas of the country. They beat Duke 2-0 at home Sunday in an ACC tournament quarter final and play Louisville on Friday in Cary, N.C., in a semi. Sunday’s win over Duke had a record attendance of 2,533. Obviously, they will get a high seed for the upcoming NCAA tournament. BRENT TUTTLE

YOUR VIEW

POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM The Price Chopper chain plans to change its name to Market 32 in a $300M rebranding move. Is this a good idea?

Tim Masters

Bring more concerts! Donald Occhipinti



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21% Yes. It will help freshen the new look. 59% Why change the name? 20% Bring back Chicago Market. CAST YOUR VOTE DAILY ON THE UTICAOD.COM HOMEPAGE

Whitesboro

‘THEY SAID IT’ QUOTES FROM THE PAGES OF THE O-D

“It’s so tragic. That’s 126 families.” CLAUDIA TENNEY– State assemblywoman, after learning Tuesday that 126 workers were being laid off at Remington Arms. It comes on the heels of 105 job losses at the Ilion plant in August.

Opinions


IS YOUR CHILD STRESSED BECAUSE OF SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS? CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM

FEDS NEED TO ACT NOW ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA Grant New York state a waiver so severe cases can be treated “We should be moving heaven and earth to try and get this done so these parents and children don’t have to suffer.” Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica

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he good thing about the push to accelerate the implementation of a new state law authorizing marijuana as a treatment for certain medical conditions is that most politicians support it. The bad thing is that the request for a federal waiver to speed up the process for high-risk children and young people is tangled in government red tape. That should infuriate every resident of this state. It should infuriate them enough to write to state and federal representatives in support of the effort to have the U.S. Department of Justice grant a waiver so New York can import medical marijuana for children and young adults like Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills, who suffers every day from a severe form of epilepsy called Doose syndrome. A young boy in Colorado — where voters approved the legal use of medical marijuana in 2000 — has the same condition and has not had a seizure since he started the medication two years ago. (see column below) State lawmakers voted earlier this year to make New York the 23rd state to authorize marijuana for patients with conditions including AIDS, cancer and epilepsy. The problem is that the program isn’t likely to be up and running before 2016 as regulators work out the details. That may be too late for some. State legislators and advocates of medical marijuana met in New York City last Sunday to discuss the issue. Many supporters want to kick-start the program for patients like Mackenzie because time isn’t on their side. At least three children in the state have already died since the bill was signed. Mackenzie developed the condition at age 4 and now, at age 11, suffers


Mackenzie Kulawy, 11, of New York Mills, has epileptic seizures daily that would likely be helped by medical marijuana. New York state has approved a program, but it’s not likely to be up and running until 2016. Political leaders are seeking a federal waiver so New York state can import the drug from out-of-state manufacturers and begin the program early for patients like Mackenzie, but so far there has been no action on it.

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Rep. Richard Hanna, R-Barneveld: 10 Broad St., Utica, NY, 13501, 7938146 or 793-8147

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Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, Room 401, State Office Building, 207 Genesee St., Utica, N.Y. 13501; phone: 732-1055; fax: 732-1413; email: [email protected]

Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-NY: James M. Hanley Federal Building, 100 South Clinton St., PO Box 7318, Syracuse, N.Y. 13261. Phone: 423-5471. ä

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY: 531 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20515; phone 202-224-4451

Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-Rome, State Office Building, 207 Genesee St., Utica, N.Y. 13501; phone: 793-9072; fax: 793-0298; email: [email protected]

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NEW YORK STATE ä Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson, 214 Farrier Ave., Oneida, N.Y. 13421; phone: 361-4125; fax: 361-4222; email: [email protected]

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Assemblyman Marc Butler, R-Newport, 235 N. Prospect St., Suite 101, Herkimer, N.Y. 13350; phone: 866-1632; fax: 866-5058; email: [email protected]

Sen. David J. Valesky, D-Oneida, 805 State Office Building, 333 East Washington St., Syracuse, N.Y. 13202; phone: 478-8745; fax: 474-3804; email: [email protected] Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, 235 N. Prospect St., Herkimer, N.Y. 13350; phone: 866-1632; fax: 866-5058; email: [email protected] ä

These bureaucrats need a good swift kick DAVE DUDAJEK

to pay to have her little boy back. I became angrier the more we talked because there’s a darn good chance that the medical marijuana that turned little Zaki’s life around could probably do the same thing for Mackenzie. New York state has approved the use of medical marijuana, but the process to get the program up and running is so steeped in senseless bureaucracy that officials don’t expect to get things going before 2016. A federal waiver to help kids with severe cases like Mackenzie’s is being sought from the U.S. Justice Department, but officials there are sitting on their hands like they have all the time in the world to make a decision. They might, but many children and young people don’t. We should rename it the Department of Injustice. Somebody needs to jack up these socalled public servants. They bring words to mind that I cannot use in the newspaper. I will say this: There has not been one recorded death due to medical marijuana. There are 50,000 deaths every year due to epilepsy.

He hasn’t had one since. Heather said Zaki takes the liquid medication orally — she gives it to him in a dropper, the same as you’d give a child a dose of Tylenol. Unlike the prescriptions he took previously, he has had absolutely no side effects. Like Mackenzie, Zaki just turned 11. The epilepsy that ravaged his little body for most of those years took its toll on development, his mom says, but since the seizures stopped he has been making remarkable progress every day. What’s more, unlike his life on prescription meds, he eats better, sleeps better and isn’t in nearly as much pain as before. He’s slowly becoming a typical 11-year-old boy — riding his bike, playing video games and driving mom nuts. That’s a good thing, she says. Zaki’s medication costs $300 a month — insurance doesn’t cover it — but Heather says it’s much less than she Dave Dudajek is opinion page editor for the was spending on other therapies that Observer-Dispatch. Reach him at 315-792-5090 didn’t work. She agrees it’s a small price or email [email protected].


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Everyone should be advocate for young girl with epilepsy

During the past few weeks we have been made aware of an 11-year-old girl named Mackenzie who suffers from a severe form of epilepsy. My heart goes out to this child and her family. It is time for every person in the medical community of the Mohawk Valley to reach out to this child by petitioning the governor on her behalf in order for her to be immediately evaluated for the use of medical marijuana so that she can lead a normal, seizure-free life. Why should she have to wait until 2015 or 2016! She has waited long enough. Anyone in the Mohawk Valley with a child “seizure free” should also send letters to the governor and/or their state legislators on behalf of this child. Look at any 11-year-old who does not have seizures and think of this one child. Let’s come together as a community and see that this action is done. Let it be our thousandperson “mail ’n’ march” to those in power that can see that she gets this medication — not in 2016, but tomorrow! ANGELA GENTILE

I have attended many lively public hearings for proposed energy projects but nothing has come close to the utter lack of respect and the obvious desperation of the environmentalists and “fracktivists” in attendance in Georgetown, Madison County. From the immediate confrontations, the namecalling, the profanity, all the way to personal attacks about people’s ethnicity and weight. The environmentalists’ showed a complete disregard for the FERC hearing officer, the others in attendance and even members of the Madison County Sheriff’s Department. The biggest insult of the night came when a union member asked that we honor the men and women of our nation’s military and honor our flag with the Pledge of Allegiance. Many environmentalists hissed at this request and some shouted out “what a waste of your 3 minutes”. As incredibly disheartening as this may be, more than half of the environmentalists/fracktivists/antipipeline folks remained seated during the entire Pledge of Allegiance. That’s right! The same people that travel from meeting to meeting and scream about and demand “their rights” do not even have the decency or respect to honor our nation’s flag. What a classless, ruthless and totally clueless bunch! CARMEN NICOTERA

Laborers’ Local 35

Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney, R-New Hartford, 5176 St. Route 233, PO Box 597, Westmoreland, NY 13490; phone: 853-2383; fax: 853-2386; email: [email protected]

FEDERAL

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YOUR VIEWS

Environmentalists’ actions at meeting were insulting

Tell lawmakers to keep pressure on the feds

he longer I spoke with Heather Jackson, the angrier I became. I phoned her in Colorado Springs, Colo., this week to talk about her son, Zaki. Zaki (pronounced Za-kie’) has Doose syndrome, the same form of epilepsy that affects 11-year-old Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills. Doose syndrome is a very rare, severe form of epilepsy. Heather told me that Zaki had his first seizure when he was just four months old, and by the time he was 5 years old, he had suffered 500,000 seizures. I couldn’t even imagine the toll that took on his little body, much less a loving family that would do anything to stop their child’s pain and suffering. Heather tried everything possible to help her little boy, ranging from herbal therapy to chiropractics. When nothing worked, Zaki went through 17 different prescription medications — one worse than the next — before Heather heard of a family in California using medical marijuana for a similar condition. She did some research, and on July 19, 2012, Zaki began treatment. It took several weeks to adjust the dosage, and on Oct. 3, 2012, Zaki’s seizures stopped.

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Marcy

PLEASE SEE EDITORIAL, 15A

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OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014 |


ONLINE COMMENTS


QUESTION: What did you think of the plan to extend the school day in the Utica? Good idea. Debra Hoole Kingsley

I think it’ll be hard on the little kids in kindergarten through second grade, but if the ultimate goal is for a higher education, then I don’t see any issue! Jessica White

No! I love that my kids are home by 3:15 and I get my time with them and they can get the overwhelming amount of homework done and play outside and play sports! I think they are in school enough hours to learn. Katrina Rockwood Jellencich

The four schools are an experiment to determine whether this program should be offered to more school districts. It may be a good idea, but only after the state corrects the funding formula that limits the resources Upstate. Mark Kall

Definitely a great idea. Maybe it won’t be so many kids hanging in the street. Also maybe there will be a lower dropout rate. Nia Addison

Pushing kids too hard, too young. Becky Linke Koslosky

A shame the state put so many restrictions on it … would have benefitted so many of our struggling students. Another mandate that is impossible to follow through on at the expense of the kids. Thanks NYS and Gov. Cuomo. Lou Parrotta

My kid is way smarter than I was at his age. First graders already are doing equations instead of coloring. I like the curriculum. I also like having my kid home after school. We get family time after we do his homework and chores. Family time is what this society is lacking not extra school hours based on funding. We don’t need the schools to keep our children from “hanging in the streets.” We need strong adult figures in their lives, and that starts at home. Brian Balfe


OPINIONS 15A |

OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014


Mackenzie Kulawy, 11, of New York Mills, colors in a workbook with her older sister, Kaitlyn, 13, at their grandparents’ home in Yorkville. Mackenzie suffers daily seizures from a rare form of epilepsy that required her to drop out of school in April. Her family believes medical marijuana could help her, but government red tape is stalling the process that will allow her to obtain it.

EDITORIAL

(CONTINUED FROM 14A)

seizures every 10 or 15 minutes. In April, she had to drop out of school. In addition, she must stick to a special diet — she says she wants to eat doughnuts if she ever gets better — and she now wears a helmet to prevent serious head injuries that could occur during a seizure. Mackenzie’s grandmother, Patricia Reed, explains that the brain needs to repair itself between seizures, but as Mackenzie gets older, that process takes longer. Getting medical marijuana now could greatly help her chances of resuming a normal life. The Cuomo administration has tried to speed the process for children like Mackenzie, and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, DUtica, has called for a special session of the Legisla-

ture so it could pass legislation to expedite the process. Meanwhile, a request for what would be an unprecedented federal waiver to allow New York state to import medical marijuana from out-of-state manufacturers before the formal state program begins was sent to the Justice Department in August by U.S. Sens. Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand. Schumer spokesman Angelo Roefaro said Wednesday that they have heard nothing to date regarding that request. That’s not acceptable. Schumer should be livid. He’s got clout in the Senate, and he should be pounding on the Justice Department’s door demanding that something be done about this. The Washington bureaucrats needs to step outside

the D.C. Beltway into the real world and view the video that Mackenzie’s mom has of her daughter having a seizure. Maybe if their own child or grandchild suffered such a fate they’d stop the foot-dragging. “I would not want to live the life my granddaughter lives,” Mackenzie’s grandmother wrote in an Opinion page column last Monday. “Mackenzie had four seizures yesterday resulting in two black eyes and a very large bump on her head. The last seizure yesterday was a grand mal seizure lasting over eight minutes. … She doesn’t remember any of it, but she feels the pain from it. Every muscle in her body hurts and she cries.” Wake up, Washington. Stop wasting precious time. Get this done. Now.

It’s not your father’s pot

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edical marijuana gets a bum rap in some circles because of name recognition — marijuana has long been associated with getting high. But don’t let the name confuse you. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the marijuana-related compound that will get you stoned. That’s why it’s preferred by recreational users. But cannibidiol — CBD — is a non-psychoactive component of marijuana that scientific and clinical studies have shown to have therapeutic benefits to help a wide range of conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, alcoholism, MS, chronic pain, schizophrenia, PTSD, antibiotic-resistant infections — and epilepsy. It does not make users high.

The Epilepsy Foundation says it is firmly committed to supporting physician directed care, and to exploring and advocating for all potential treatment options for epilepsy, including cannabidiol (CBD) oil and medical marijuana. In states where medical use of marijuana is legal as a treatment for epilepsy, a number of people living with epilepsy report beneficial effects, including a decrease in seizure activity. “People with uncontrolled seizures live with the continual risk of serious injuries and loss of life. If a patient and their healthcare professionals feel that the potential benefits of medical marijuana for uncontrolled epilepsy outweigh the risks, then families need to have that legal option,” the foundation says. – The Observer-Dispatch

ANOTHER VIEW

Someone must tame Big Brother

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here is no question that either Congress or the courts have to do something about out-ofcontrol surveillance programs in this country. And given the choice it would be far more preferable for our elected officials to deal with this issue — and promptly. With that in mind, it’s refreshing to hear Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy say he is not only pushing a bill that would stop the National Security Agency from collecting the phone records of millions of Americans, he believes there is support for passage. Of course, nothing will happen until after the Nov. 4 elections, but there is every good reason for Congress to back the so-called “USA Freedom Act.” The bill, which has support from a diversity of organizations, would halt the NSA’s outrageous methods of collecting phone records en masse and instead allow the agency to target only suspected terrorists. Leahy has support of both Senate Republican and Democratic leaders, and the House of Representatives also has signaled its backing of similar legislation. Congress and President Obama have until mid-2015 to do something before the NSA and other federal law enforcement agencies could lose their surveillance tools, under a provision of the

Patriot Act anti-terrorism law. Surely, the country has waited long enough. In fact, if Congress and the president can’t get its act together on this soon, the court should impose its will to stop these clear violations of privacy against law-abiding people. Conceptually, both the president and many members of Congress agree that there should be limits on these programs - and that there must be some type of judicial oversight. But, to date, they have not ironed out the details. Americans actually knew very little about extent of the snooping programs until they were leaked by former National Security Agency analyst Edward Snowden. While Congress considers its options, the federal courts are hearing arguments regarding these matters, providing another powerful reason why our federally elected officials shouldn’t dawdle. U.S. intelligence agencies need reasonable room to operate; they perform incredibly important tasks and a number of terror-related plots have been snuffed out since 9/11. But vital “checks and balances” shouldn’t be lost in the process. As they stand, surveillance tactics are too arbitrary and sweeping. A reasonable compromise is achievable and must get done. — The Poughkeepsie Journal

Opinions


DO YOU PACK HEALTHIER LUNCHES THAN SCHOOLS PROVIDE? CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM

OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2014 |

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YOUR VIEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Taxpayers shouldn’t have to pick up Stanley slack

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills, who has a rare form of epilepsy, undergoes an electroencephalography (EEG) recently in Syracuse. Mackenzie, 11, had to drop out of school earlier this year because of the seizures, which she has had since she was 4 years old. The EEG, which measures brain activity, has to be done sleep-deprived, which is difficult because any seizure activity causes extreme fatigue, her grandmother, Patricia Reed, said.

FIGHT FOR MACKENZIE, OTHERS MUST GO ON Leaders must break through bureaucracy for decency’s sake

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his past week, the U.S. Justice Department denied New York state a waiver to import medical marijuana that could be used to treat severe forms of epilepsy in children like 11-year-old Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills. It would be understated to call the denial disappointing. Despite unprecedented bipartisan support from all political corners at the state and federal level, Assistant U.S. Attorney General Peter J. Kadzik essentially said that granting a waiver would be contrary to the law. The battle cannot end here. The shame of this is that the lives of Mackenzie and others like her hang in the balance because of state and federal bureaucracies that have created a knot of red tape that defies logic and human decency. Elected leaders who have fought this fight cannot turn back now. They must keep pushing because for some, time is running out. Time already has run out for three children who have died since New York lawmakers approved the use of medical marijuana earlier this year to treat patients with conditions including AIDS, cancer and epilepsy. But instead of just moving ahead with a program now — other states have had programs in place for years — New York’s braintrusts decided they couldn’t get one going until 2016. That’s ridiculous. Leaders, including Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, said that the quickest way to get medical marijuana for Mackenzie and children like her

The shame of this is that the lives of Mackenzie and others like her hang in the balance because of state and federal bureaucracies that have created a knot of red tape that defies common sense and human decency. would be to seek the federal waiver. New York’s two U.S. senators, Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along with Rep. Richard Hanna, R-Barneveld, and 17 of his House colleagues, wrote the Justice Department requesting the waiver. In a letter dated Nov. 18, Assistant Attorney General Kadzik said the waiver was denied “because it would not comply with the requirements of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the Controlled Substances Act.” In other words, the FDA’s drug approval process must be followed. No exceptions. Kadzik did suggest as an alternative the experimental drug, Epidiolex, which uses a pure derivative of marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD) — the same ingredient that’s been known to help others. Epidiolex is manufactured by GW Pharmaceuticals of Britain. In a letter to New York state’s acting commissioner of health, Kadzik said the Justice Department supports research on Epidiolex’s potential capacity to treat multiple conditions, and in June 2014 FDA granted the drug Fast-Track designation and authorized

its use under expanded access. This essentially provides access now “to treatments for patients with serious or immediately life-threatening diseases or conditions while preserving important protections for those patients.” GW Pharmaceuticals said there are more than 300 patients now being treated through this program, including many patients with seizure disorders. In June, New York became the second state to enter into an agreement with GW (Georgia was the first) to develop clinical trials using Epidiolex. The elephant in the room here is Big Pharma, which now has its clutches in something that more likely than not will be all about money — not improving or even saving little lives. Mackenzie’s grandmother, Patricia Reed, who retired to help care for her granddaughter, said the family is not familiar with Epidiolex and they are skeptical about it being the right way to go since there are so many unknowns. There are not even any assurances that Mackenzie could get into the program. On the other hand, the marijuana strain Charlotte’s Web – approved by New York legislators – has proven to help a Colorado boy and others with the same condition as Mackenzie. A disappointed Brindisi said Friday that the best way now to help Mackenzie and others like her would be to fast-track New York’s program. He’s right. We implore him and his colleagues to find a way to expedite implementation. We can’t wait until 2016 to help these children.



The taxpayer should not be forced to pay for the deficits of the Stanley Theatre. The theater is an entertainment venue not publicly owned. It is in competition with other venues and should rise or fall on that basis. Some argue that it is a regional asset. It is, but one of many. Should the taxpayer fund all regional assets including those in the private sector? Furthermore, our local governments’ taxpayer funding of businesses has a dismal record. A full list of the white elephants is too extensive to note here. The hundreds of thousands of public dollars being spent in the hotel and aircraft businesses should be enough to stop the practice. Most serious is the lack of accountability of citizen boards. Someone dug the huge financial hole the Stanley is in now. Should the taxpayer be forced to pay for what is obviously bad management and decision making? We are in a highly taxed area including having to constantly pay an obscenely high sales tax. The answer to the Stanley can be found from private sector funding. The right kind of private business involvement and direction can turn it around. That should be the direction taken. RODGER POTOCKI New Hartford

Sauquoit elementary students did great job for veterans Sauquoit Elementary School makes us proud to have our grandchildren go there. Veterans were honored by a unique tribute. They teach students to honor, respect and appreciate the people that have given us and protect our freedom. We need more of this in schools, to teach patriotism. I dare you to listen to the students belt out “Proud to Be an American” and not get tears in your eyes! The principal gave a heartfelt speech. The veterans, seated together, were surrounded by their families. They were given “medals” made by the kindergartener — red, white and blue stars with a penny in the middle, “thank you” on the back. Second graders made a snack pouch, handwritten by them, each item was a symbol of something (a pretzel — “we fold our arms to hug each veteran and say thank you.” Third and fourth graders proudly sang “America the Beautiful.” Two wonderful things happened that day. Children were filled with pride. Veterans were filled with love and gratitude. They all had a chance to talk. One emotionally summed it up: “I have been out of the service for 45 years. This is the first time I have been thanked.” JOYCE BOJDAK Clayville

ONLINE COMMENTS


The price of gas in the Utica-Rome area remains far above the national average. Your thoughts? PUBLISHED NOV. 18

I recently traveled outside of Rome and paid $2.76/gal. I was frustrated that we are so high in Rome. Maria Fulgieri

It’s $2.77 here in Zephyrhills, Florida. Karen Geisinger

$3.21 in Dolgeville. $2.61 in New Jersey, and it is all full service. Jim Hoover

In Syracuse on Tuesday — almost all stations range $2.76 to $2.98! Shame on Rome/Lee. JoAnn Matt Hunt

$2.54 Spotsylvania, Virginia.

GUEST VIEW

N e w v is io n , e n e r g y n e e d e d to s a v e th e S ta n le y

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any have fond memories of the Stanley Theatre, which has been part our community’s fabric for decades. Saturday matinees watching The Three Stooges’ with my brother and grandfather a half century ago is etched in my memory. Times have changed and so has this grand theater. It has had its share of good and bad times. Past Executive Director Ron Thiele was instrumental in lobbying and securing financing for a Stanley Theatre Capital Project completed in 2008 at a price tag of $23.1 million. He promised the needed improvements would result in a 30-to-40 percent increase in days of operation, number of events and net revenue, therefore making it financially viable. Additionally, a fundamental component of the project included a Stanley endowment fund, which was to foster a fiscally sound and strong operation reserve. As an elected county legislator I supported capital funding for this theater in 2004 and 2005. In 2006, I questioned an

RICK FLISNIK

Nation Enterprise have negatively impacted the Stanley. Unfortunately, economic downturns will continue and the Nation will expand. The Stanley must have a plan to deal with these and other challenges. The Oneida County Legislature and county taxpayers have long supported the Stanley, earmarking millions of dollars to the theater. In this year’s county budget, approximately $230,000 will be spent for past Stanley bonding debt. We still owe $1.3 million for the 2008 project! Spending additional county dollars now would be fiscally irresponsible. The past Stanley fundraising slogan was “You Give Us the Stage, We’ll Give You the World.” Sadly, taxpayers did their part, but Stanley caretakers have not. I wish new Executive Director Jerry Kraus the best in turning this magnificent theater around. His hiring was a good start. A new vision and energy for this grand old theater is desperately needed!

additional county bonding request of $1 million. I proposed a reasonable plan to add a $1 ticket surcharge. This would have assisted the county in paying off it’s bonding debt for this expenditure. My proposal was rejected by fellow legislators. Thiele indicated this surcharge would be a “regressive penalty on a select part of the population.” Fast forward six years and the plea again is made for more county taxpayer dollars. Thiele is long gone and his promises forgotten by some. What happened to the promise of this theater being financially viable? What happened to the endowment fund? Why were benchmarks set, but never achieved? It is understood the recession begin- Rick Flisnik is an Oneida County legislator from ning in 2008 and expansion of the Oneida Marcy.

Michael Hughes

It’s still nearly 40 cents cheaper than it has been in over a year. I’m not complaining. Amanda Mills

Folks, you can’t compare our prices in Central NY with out-of-state prices. Taxes are the main reason. Our two suppliers keep the prices high. PS: No two Stewarts have the same price. John E Fox

$2.36 in Gaffney, South Carolina. Kiana Reed

Prices locally are highest in the nation! Even higher than California! Just like anything else, they will stick it to us as long as they can! Dave Surprenant

$2.47 in Hilton Head island, South Carolina. Jake Riley

A friend just posted gas at $2.35 in Baton Rouge. Andrea Caiello McCarthy
