Opinions OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 2014

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE EBOLA DISEASE THREAT? TODAY’S POLL CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM QUESTION SEE YESTERDAY’S POLL RESULTS BELOW. 14AOpinions OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 2014

YOUR VIEWS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Health care fiasco deserves some answers 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 TINA RUSSELL / OBSERVER-DISPATCH copy of this letter will be going to our state Melinda Graniela, 19, of New Hartford, pauses at a ribbon tied around a tree on the New Hartford Village Green in mem- legislators, so if I get a reply, I’ll be glad to ory of Alexandra Kogut, who was murdered in September 2012 by her boyfriend, Clayton Whittemore. Graniela dated Whit- share it with other taxpayers. temore when she was just 15, and said that their relationship, too, was a stormy one. In the wake of Kogut’s murder, Graniela AL SEELMAN decided to speak up in an effort to help other victims of domestic violence. Marcy Kent Bush column on NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE 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 major- Talk to your children today about relationships ity of the people of the country oppose the president’s policies and orders? When the president of the U.S tells us he is and what to do about it when things go sour 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 ost teenage trade deficit or unemployment or debt or wel- romances usually fare rolls or taxes. It’s quite the opposite. end with broken WARNING SIGNS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE To criticize any elected official or the pub- hearts, not broken Dating abuse is a pattern of destructive behaviors used to exert power and control over a lic for understanding and opposing the bones. But when dating partner. Here are some warning signs that might indicate your relationship is heading decline of their country is un-American. relationships turn ugly, tragedy in the wrong direction: JOSEPH KIERPIEC Mmight not be far away. We saw that Rome in 2012 when 18-year-old Alexandra Checking your cellphone or email without permission. Kogut of New Hartford was beaten Constantly putting you down or intentionally embarrassing you in public. to death by her boyfriend, Clayton Whittemore, in her college dorm Extreme jealousy, possessiveness or insecurity. room. He was found guilty of sec- Explosive temper and mood swings. ONLINE ond-degree murder May 30 and is Telling you what to do. due to be sentenced Tuesday, COMMENTS although late last week his defense Isolating you from family or friends. READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM said it was seeking a new trial. Using online communities or cellphones to control, intimidate or humiliate you. POLL: NY to change signs for disabled The Kogut murder was a wake-up call for Melinda Graniela, who also Physically hurting you, from pushing and pulling you to throwing something at you. access to help remove the stigma had dated Whittemore and said he Repeatedly pressuring you to have sex. attached to the word ‘handicapped.’ had abused her, too. They shouted PUBLISHED JULY 28 and shoved each other when argu- I mean come on, is this really top priority Cuomo? ing, and, she said in a recent inter- ENDING AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP April Narsasian view, he once put her in a choke- Waste of tax dollars! hold. She thought such a relation- You might feel pressure from your friends ending your relationship, especially if you Lorri Hedman McCulloch ship was normal. and family to just break up and move on, think your ex will come to your house or It’s not. And if you haven’t dis- but it’s never that simple. Your abusive confront you when you’re alone. Sure why not. If it makes them feel better, go for it. cussed that with your child, don’t You may not be in their shoes but maybe they should partner might not accept the breakup or ä The person you’re dating probably has wait any longer. What they don’t have “fat” parking spaces or “blonde” parking spaces. respect your boundaries. They might try to become a huge part of your life, so being know can hurt them. Or worse. Then maybe people would understand. Half of every- control you through guilt trips, threats or scared about feeling lonely after the Teenage love — or what they think one that says it’s a waste of tax dollars probably either insults. Here are some things to keep in breakup is normal. Talking to friends or is love — is a part of growing up. For mind when thinking about breaking up: don’t pay taxes because they don’t own anything or kids, it can be euphoric, the most finding new activities can make filling your they have no clue what their dollars go to even if you important thing in their lives. But it ä Realize this behavior is wrong, do not new free time easier. asked them. Lighten up people. can go sour, and when it does, things accept or make excuses for your partner’s ä Even if your partner has been abusive and Greg Morra can get messy. Kids being kids often abusive behavior and talk to an adult, controlling, it’s normal to miss them. Try Waste of money. can’t find their way out, and that’s friend or family member that you trust. writing down the reasons you want to end Monica Famolaro Welpe when things can go from bad to ä Avoid being alone with your partner and your relationship and keep them as a worse. And, in the case of Alexan- try to make sure that other people are reminder for later on. They give anyone with an ache or pain a parking per- dra Kogut, to worst. mit. I’ve seen perfectly healthy people use them while around when you’re together. If you’re Domestic violence is very real — ä If your partner is controlling and jealous, someone with an actual disability has nowhere to park. alone with your partner, make sure that in all kinds of relationships — and they might make a lot of decisions for you. Take time to fix that problem. someone knows where you are and when raising awareness is critical. That’s It can take time to adjust to making your Andy Lamica why you need to talk to your chil- you’ll return. own decisions again. If you start to feel Speaking as one who has a handicapped permit due dren. And don’t wait. ä If you don’t feel safe, don’t break up in helpless or overwhelmed, tap into your sup- to multiple health problems, it’s an unnecessary waste In an O-D report last month, Katie port system of friends, family, teachers or person. It might seem cruel to break up of tax dollars. By the way, not all physical handicaps Ray-Jones, president and acting over the phone or by email, but it could be coworkers. CEO of the National Domestic Vio- are visible. Be careful about judging people. the safest way. If you break up in person, ä If you are scared to end your relationship, Phyllis Myers Mills lence Hotline, said children need to do it in a public place and have friends or take that fear seriously. Develop a safety learn at a much younger age – 9 or your parents wait nearby. Try to take a cell- plan to think through the dangerous situa- I’d much rather see money go into cracking down on 10, before they even begin dating — SSI and SSDI fraud; so much state money would be phone with you. tions you may encounter. that any kind of verbal, emotional or saved. I had a neighbor on it for his back, yet he was physical abuse is not normal and ä Don’t try to explain your reasons for end- ä Save any threatening or harassing mes- able to shovel his driveway, fix his house and even must not be tolerated. ing the relationship more than once. There sages your ex sends, and set your profile to help other neighbors push their cars when they got And difficult as it might be to is nothing you can say that will make your private on social networking sites and ask stuck in the snow. Either my report was ignored or short-circuit an abusive relation- ex happy. friends to do the same. there aren’t enough people available to research them ship, your kids need to know that ä Let your friends and parents know you are SOURCE: WWW.LOVEIRESPECT.ORG all. they can — and should — by seeking Sarah Mudge help immediately. There is plenty of help out there. Will it help stop people from parking in handicapped Parents should be the first line of parking places? Those places have become a joke. And defense, but in cases where, for awareness to domestic abuse. Graniela’s eyes were opened to so have the signs in some people’s cars. whatever reason, that connection ä In Herkimer County, call 866- domestic violence after the Kogut Wil Nier isn’t comfortable there’s plenty of 0458. That’s Catholic Charities of murder. She was just 15 when she I have a disease that will likely earn me a handicap outside help. Herkimer County. It, too, provides dated Whittemore and at the time space as I get older. I also have family members who ä Ray-Jones’ group has a project, assistance to domestic violence vic- figured she could handle what she are handicapped, and nobody gets offended by that LoveIsRespect.org, where victims tims or those who suspect it. now identifies as abuse. She said term. There are more serious things to worry about can call a 24-hotline for a live chat ä The Purple Pinkie Charitable she made excuses for Whittemore’s than someone’s feelings. It’s not a bad stigma, really. with peer advocates. The number is Foundation is another resource. behavior because she knew his Now to work on people who don’t have stickers who 866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522. Visit its web site: father reportedly abused him as a park in those places … www.purplepinkie.org, or face- child. ä In Oneida County, call the Christian Mathis YWCA Mohawk Valley at 797-7740. book.com/purplepinkiecharitable- There are no excuses. Talk to your foundation. kids today and tell them that. The Y has many programs to raise BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uticaod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can com- COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS ment on stories by signing in with your Facebook or O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. LinkedIn account. Commentary published in print is sub- TERRY CASCIOLI DAVE DUDAJEK RON JOHNS MATT BECKER ject to editing. Comments selected are based on story Publisher, 792-5002, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Managing Editor, 792-5008, Sports Editor, 792-5030, popularity and writer clarity on the subject. While writers [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] who post comments are identified with their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of publication. AREA YOU CONCERNED ABOUT HOW MARKETERS TODAY’S POLL TARGET CHILDREN? 11A QUESTION CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM Opinions SEE YESTERDAY’S POLL RESULTS BELOW. OBSERVER-DISPATCH | THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

OUR VIEW YOUR VIEWS Investigate museum mess LETTERS that he has determined that the museum has at eeling back the layers at Utica’s Chil- TO THE EDITOR dren’s Museum uncovers more and least eight accounts at two local banks and a more dysfunction, and it’s time now PayPal account. The other faction, chaired by mismanagement of the for an investigation by the state attor- Celia Domser, maintains confidence in Brown Misinformation library, even chastising its ney general’s office. Only a disinter- and wants to restore financial control to her. carries the day leaders editorially. The pub- ested third party can sift through this mess and ä Last week, more financial questions lication of valuable library Ptry to restore public confidence in an operation cropped up over use of an $11,670 Community events for readers of all ages in the valley that should be one of our community’s most Foundation grant for carpeting. Emails appear have not seen much valuable assets. to show that Brown linked the granting of a car- I was amused and angered newsprint. Sadly, over the past few years, the museum peting contract to museum donations. Brown by two local news reports We have been privileged to operation has unraveled. denies that, saying Gordon fabricated the April 11 on proposed merg- become friends with many of ä In 2011, the museum’s board of directors emails. She claims to have canceled checks for ers. One was the result of a the men and women who believed they had handed over a 60 percent the entire $11,670 proving she paid that price, failed merger of Herkimer have given generously of share of the building at 311 Main St. to director but did not respond to O-D requests to see those High School; the second a their time, talent and treas- ure to the continuation of the Marlene Brown to compensate her for back pay. canceled checks. Checks made to a roofer who potential merger of Herkimer College, stymied library. My experience in Brown has a document from 2007 agreeing to did work at the museum may reveal other irreg- waive her salary until the museum gained finan- by the narrow-mindedness of local politics taught me that ularities. Paul Miscione, a board member who cial footing. But unbeknownst to the parties the Herkimer County Legis- there can be a goal of public- sides with Gordon, said there’s no way to know involved, the paperwork sealing the deal was lature – a merger killed ity, as well as expressions of what happened without looking at the museum’s never completed. before it even had the benefit reform of perceived prob- financial documents. ä Since the building debacle, the board has of a thoughtful public debate. lems. It seems there is a need split into two factions, each challenging the The whole thing is quite curious. Given the Both merger failures have to carefully consider these other’s control. One faction, headed by Chris accusations, denials, split factions and other a common thread: a few loud two objectives. Gordon, has suspended Brown and moved to unknowns, this fiasco is best left to impartial and misinformed voices driv- DAVID K. MAHONEY obtain control over museum bank accounts and authorities who can do a thorough investigation ing the final outcome. The New Hartford financial records. That was rejected by the and determine just what is going on at Utica’s school merger – approved in banks due to the confusion, said Gordan, noting Children’s Museum. a straw vote — was defeated in the vote that mattered pri- Volunteers make COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS marily because misrepresen- tations were made by a small, all the difference O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. loud group of dissenters who ELLEN LEIFELD DAVE DUDAJEK RON JOHNS came out of the woodwork at National Volunteer Week Interim Publisher, 792-5002, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Managing Editor, 792-5008, the last minute with impend- was marked April 6-12, and [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ing-doom stories about losing the American Heart Associa- identity and independence tion would like to celebrate (with no consideration for the important work of our CARTOONISTS VIEW significant economic and dedicated volunteers. quality-of-education issues This year, our advocacy vol- involved). Photos of unteers in You’re The Cure Herkimer students carrying celebrated the passage of the large, tombstone-shaped Pulse Oximetry Law in New placards decrying “RIP York, which protects the Herkimer High School” and smallest hearts in our com- “RIP Quality Education” now munity from congenital heart tell the story of the terrible defects, the most common outcome of that decision. birth defect. Volunteers did Now, different voices – still loud and misinformed – have that! predetermined the outcome Our Go Red For Women of a potential merger of and National Wear Red Day Herkimer College with volunteers ensured that hun- Mohawk Valley Community dreds women around the College by using the same Mohawk Valley received life- “identity and independence” saving information and tools argument. No public debate, to help raise awareness and just continued insolence, encourage action to prevent demonstrated by a Herkimer women’s number one and County Legislature intent on three killers, heart disease avoiding its responsibility to and stroke. Volunteers did consider cost-effective that! expansion of local education- Volunteers involved in al capacity and opportunity. America’s Greatest Heart JOSEPH M. BELMONT Run & Walk help thousands Frankfort of walkers and runners get moving, get healthy, and raise more than $1 million in the Library has been fight against heart disease and stroke. a community Our volunteer board of directors and committees ONLINE COMMENTS jewel have led the way to creating READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM. When my wife and I moved continued and meaningful to this area in 2000, we found American Heart Association the New Hartford Public programs in our community. takes a position. He has no ideology hundreds of thousands of teachers GUEST VIEW: Mum’s Library to be the “jewel” in Volunteers are doing that! the word on teacher or vision other than jumping on and their mothers, fathers, hus- the features which enriched This list is by no means whatever bandwagon will get him bands, wives, daughters and sons our lives. Its scope, warmth exhaustive. We are grateful evaluations reelected. He thought he could ride PUBLISHED APRIL 12 who will vote in the next election. and professionalism made it for all the volunteers who the hate for teachers through Elec- Jane Myers so appealing, for several share their time and expert- Very well said, Dr. Metallo! You tion Day but now that the momen- ise in support of our life-sav- present a number of questions that years it was the major recipi- tum for that is waning, he’s not sure STORY: Stephen Colbert ent of our donations to local ing mission. We know they Gov. Cuomo has been dancing what his next political move should to replace Letterman institutions. have heart! around. Cuomo’s behavior has been be. If the tests are fair game for PUBLISHED APRIL 11 In recent months, the O-D DICK MATTIA “his way or the highway” for school teacher evaluations then why are As much as I like Letterman, it’s has published a number of Executive director, Utica Region districts to adopt the teacher evalu- articles pointing to alleged American Heart Association teachers forbidden from disclosing time for some new blood. I think ations and student testing. Like a the passages and questions that Colbert is a very good choice. bully, he threatened to withhold they are critical of? The answer is funding if school districts (and on that the truth will kill the agenda of Bill Ellenwood other issues, CSEA and PEF unions) those who want to continue to Another mistake like the Leno didn’t do things his way. Now he’s YOUR VIEW ‘THEY blame teachers for all the ills affect- replacement. POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM looking at how he can be “account- ing student progress on these tests. SAID IT’ able” and still come out smelling Leonard Montana I’m not holding my breath for New Hartford is the QUOTES FROM like a rose. Does he think we all for- THE PAGES OF THE O-D Cuomo to really tell us where he Hate him. latest municipality got about his funding cuts and stands with any of this — because Kelly Fettes Dewolfe to ban smoking at employee work reductions? I don’t “We have a he can’t. He’s waiting for Gates or Love Colbert! town playgrounds. think so. Tisch or some other billionaire to tell six-year deal Ellie Hadity Do you approve? Gail Barnum Ashmore him where he stands on this and with them. Cuomo is just waiting to see which then he will weigh their support Who is he? They couldn’t way the wind is blowing before he against the potential backlash of the Wil Nier 63% Yes. Parks and playgrounds are for fresh air. pull out even if they were upset.” BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION 35% No. It’s unfair to smokers. Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uticaod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can comment on ROB ESCHE – stories by signing in with your Facebook or LinkedIn account. Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Com- 2% Do e-cigarettes count? Utica Comets presi- ments selected are based on story popularity and writer clarity on the subject. While writers who post comments are identi- dent, discussing fied with their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of publication. CAST YOUR VOTE DAILY ON THE UTICAOD.COM HOMEPAGE team’s commitment.

LETTER GUIDELINES DOONESBURY, By Gary Trudeau ä 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. WOULD YOU BE COMFORTABLE WITH A WEBCAM CHECKUP? TODAY’S POLL CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM QUESTION SEE YESTERDAY’S POLL RESULTS BELOW. 5A Opinions OBSERVER-DISPATCH | TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014

OUR VIEW GUEST VIEW Close museum, fix problems Karam case filled with more work on the west side of the building. wning up to violations and other ä No record of elevator inspections since 2012, emotion than facts or law miscues at Utica’s Children’s though they are required every six months. Museum is like a game of hot pota- BY DAVID BOOKSTAVER total of eight different judges to. Those responsible are passing In addition, a metal fire escape on its west side is questionable. A wooden fence crosses no of the Appellate Division, blame from one to another while The Observer-Dispatch more than two feet from the foot of the escape, Fourth Department — as well the situation continues to disintegrate in the has printed a series of arti- and dry, dead leaves have collected in the area. as by the New York Court of Oshadow of an investigation of the whole opera- cles detailing the almost Appeals, the highest court in Fire Chief Russell Brooks would not say tion by the Oneida County District Attorney’s four-year history of litigation whether it’s in violation because he had not seen this state, which have denied office. in the case of Patricia Karam it. But he did say that fire escapes “are not to be the Karams leave to appeal. One thing is clear: The museum should be v. St. Elizabeth Medical Cen- blocked in any way, shape or manner.” All of these judges have closed until the latest problems are rectified. ter, including a three-week Who’s to blame for lack of attention to this reached the very same con- On top of a dysfunctional board of directors trial that resulted in a ver- facility doesn’t matter when it comes to the safe- clusion: that the Karams’ that has split into two factions and the DA’s dict in favor of the St. Eliza- ty of children who visit there. One can only spec- various claims lack merit. investigation into the museum’s financial trans- beth Medical Center and its ulate on the horror of children being trapped in After Justice Clark denied actions are fire and codes violations that could doctors. this building by a fire or other problem. their request for a new trial, compromise the safety of a place that hosts chil- Since that verdict, the the Karams responded by dren. A recent Observer-Dispatch review of The codes and fire departments have sched- Karam family has been seek- asking for a new judge. How- Utica fire and codes department files on the uled inspections for next Monday. It’s shameful ing a new trial based upon a ever, judges can only recuse facility at 311 Main Street found: that it has taken so long, and thankfully a secretly recorded conversa- themselves from a case ä No record of any fire inspection in the past tragedy has not occurred there. tion by a Karam family mem- under very specific circum- 10 years, though state law requires them either If it hasn’t done so already, the city should ber. Supreme Court Justice stances. In fact, judges have annually or every three years, depending on the immediately close this building and it should Bernadette Clark denied the size of the building. not be re-opened until it is deemed in compli- a duty to remain on a case Karams a new trial because even when being pressured ä No record of a certificate of occupancy. ance of all codes and is given a certificate of the tape was hearsay, double or threatened. ä An unaddressed codes violation from 2008 occupancy. To keep it open at this point is the hearsay and inherently for problems with cracks and separating brick- height of irresponsibility. On May 2, almost a year unreliable. after Justice Clark issued In your most recent article, her decision, the Appellate COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS you included a quote from Division, Fourth Depart- the Karam family that was O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. ment once again unanimous- not only misleading but just DAVE DUDAJEK RON JOHNS ly agreed to deny the Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Managing Editor, 792-5008, plain wrong. Justice Clark Karams’ request for recusal. [email protected] [email protected] never contacted the press. I This decision by a neutral did — as part of my job as the appellate court speaks for communications director for itself. As Justice Clark wrote the New York state court sys- in her decision, “In the end, CARTOONISTS VIEW tem. In fact, many of the arti- this is nothing more than a cles over the past four years last-ditch, desperate attempt have included statements to breathe life into a case based more on emotion than that the jury, the Appellate the facts and the law. Division and the New York Despite the Karams’ con- State Court of Appeals has tention that justice has been already decided has no denied, this case and in par- merit.” ticular Justice Clark’s decisions have now been David Bookstaver is communica- reviewed three times by the tions director for the New York Appellate Division — by a State Unified Court System.

YOUR VIEWS LETTER TO THE EDITOR stoops and elsewhere.Unlike Irving Berlin’s so many others, Izzy eventual- ly made it big time through masterful works his musical talents and perse- verance. However, he never transcend time forgot where he came from, Through a window came visiting old neighborhood friends and places he had the clear powerful voice of worked. Kate Smith singing “God He also remembered the Bless America” by Irving country that gave him his ONLINE COMMENTS Berlin, alias Israel Issidore opportunity. When his finan- READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM. Beilin. Survivors of a pogrom cial adviser suggested that he in Russia, his family emigrat- need not pay all that money to ed to the U.S. to the lower east educators don’t have the extra name in another state an issue for the IRS, Izzy told him that he STORY: Nation’s report side of Manhattan, that ethnic resources available to channel into New York lawmakers to worry owed all that he had to this card: No gains for 12th cauldron of Jews, Irish, Ital- improved education. about? country. graders ians and Germans. Michelle Roberts Edward M Fiore So in this age of the artful PUBLISHED MAY 7 Like most immigrants at dodge, overseas tax havens Perhaps we should be asking what Our roads are full of holes, our that time and in that place, and tax shelters, here’s to the we as parents are doing to support STORY: Halbritter, NY schools have no books, there are no Izzy’s family had it tough. 126th anniversary of Izzy’s our children’s education. How are lawmakers denounce jobs and they are worried about the Forced to shift for himself at birthday, which was May 11. we as parents instilling work ethic Redskins name Redskins name? age 8, he sold newspapers on He knew something about in our children? PUBLISHED MAY 7 Carl Ciecko the docks, worked as a singing gratitude. Audrey Sabino Cucci I can think of much more impor- Funny how the NBA jumped all waiter and slept where he J. THOMAS PENDERGAST could — in stairwells, on Little Falls Audrey, excellent response. I wish tant things to spend their time on! over the Clippers owner for being more people recognized that the Non issue. racist against African Americans, yet problem typically exists at home not Brian and Lynnette Wyman all the same people are OK with the in school. NFL’s Redskins being blatantly racist New York lawmakers should not against Native Americans. Jason Tallman be cozying up with Halbritter for any YOUR VIEW ‘THEY Tim Masters POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM Maybe we should also realize that reason given his treatment of resi- SAID IT’ the concept of “no child left dents of the State of New York. Any lawmakers that back this will not get my vote. Do you think the deadly QUOTES FROM behind” has left educators trying to Matthew Trey attack in Benghazi that THE PAGES OF THE O-D increase graduation rates without Robert DeLeonardo Why isn’t he after the Oriskany killed U.S. Ambassador Chris the aid of proportional increased I agree. Any politicians that get “I wanted to see Redskins to change their mascot? Stevens and three other staffing or funding. This has left the involved in New York state need to something beau- Not enough publicity? Americans will affect the students who have the potential to be voted out of office. They are in 2016 presidential election? tiful.” learn more and do better not learn- JoAnn Mineo-Freeland office to solve real problems. ing more or doing better, since the Since when is a football team’s Shirley Stafford- Copperwheat GAYLE PARTYKA – Barneveld woman 60% Yes. The attack could have been prevented if BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION who spent her Moth- security warnings were heeded. er’s Day with her Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uticaod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can comment on 40% No. It’s all political rhetoric. By the time the daughter visiting the stories by signing in with your Facebook or LinkedIn account. Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Com- election gets here there will be new scandals to historic and scenic ments selected are based on story popularity and writer clarity on the subject. While writers who post comments are identi- focus on. Trenton Falls. fied with their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of publication. CAST YOUR VOTE DAILY ON THE UTICAOD.COM HOMEPAGE

LETTER GUIDELINES DOONESBURY, By Gary Trudeau ä 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. TODAY’S POLL WAS IT WORTH THE EFFORT TO LAND QUESTION A SPACECRAFT ON A COMET? Opinions YESTERDAY’S POLL RESULTS BELOW. CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM OBSERVER-DISPATCH | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2014 | 9A

OUR VIEW YOUR VIEWS Museum fix multifaceted LETTERS Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks said that his tica’s Children’s Museum needs to fix TO THE EDITOR department has been working with the museum to more than fire and codes violations ensure that violations are properly remedied, but gives people little reason to use before it reopens its doors. In addition there still is more to be done. the one weapon they have — the to rectifying the safety issues, museum Prison assaults often The fix needs to go beyond bricks and mortar. vote. leaders need to regain public trust by Prior to the fire and codes issues, the museum had go unreported PETER W. ANTONOWICZ getting its fiscal house in order — and that can come been under scrutiny for possible financial and Rome onlyUafter an investigation by the Oneida County Dis- Acting Department of Correc- administrative irregularities. In March, it was tions Commissioner Anthony trict Attorney’s office is completed. reported that the board had improperly attempted The museum was closed nearly six months ago Annucci told the press the to give Director Marlene Brown a 60 percent share of department investigates each Morrisville meeting after an Observer-Dispatch review of Utica fire and the museum building — valued at about $500,000 — to codes department files on the facility found that staff assault vigorously. That is compensate for back pay. That transaction, which not true. on fracking issue there was no record of any fire inspection there in would have violated state nonprofit laws, was not the past 10 years. State law requires them either The department doesn’t want Last month there was a Feder- completed. Questions also were raised regarding the public to know what is going annually or every three years, depending on the size al Energy Regulatory Commis- Brown’s handling of grant funds and other museum on in the prisons. It pays lip serv- of the building. sion (FERC) meeting in Madison finances. Add to that a dysfunctional board — earlier ice to this issue. An inspection of the five-story building by city fire County regarding a proposed this spring it was in disarray when it split into In 2003, I retired from the and codes officials later found a number of prob- pro/con factions. natural gas compressor station department. Since I arrived at in Georgetown. The compressor lems, including a partially corroded sprinkler sys- Hopefully, results of the DA’s investigation — not Oneida Correctional Facility — tem that had not been checked by a certified inspec- yet completed — will help settle these issues. Either project would essentially be for now closed — I personally solved fracked gas from Pennsylvania tor for several years, improper installation of wiring way, the board and leadership will need to be re- five inmate-on-inmate assaults. I and flammable debris in the basement. organized in order for the museum to survive. much of which is planned for was able to get the perpetrator export. to give written confessions with One purpose of FERC is to Miranda warnings in the confes- COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS “protect the public and energy sions. Each confession was customers.” However, in a coun- O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. upheld in court and convictions try where we are supposed to TERRY CASCIOLI RON JOHNS DAVE DUDAJEK MATT BECKER resulted. have rights we find out instead Publisher, 792-5002, Executive Editor, 792-5004, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Sports Editor, 792-5030, In 2000, I was informed by the [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] that the intent of FERC was to superintendent not to give limit public concerns on an Miranda warnings in the investi- issue that can affect our health, gations any longer. He told me safety, property values; and this was directed by Albany. I peace and quiet. CARTOONISTS VIEW never did another criminal FERC has now decided it will investigation. hold an additional public meet- I am a former police officer ing on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 6:30 and have never lost a case in court. It was clear to me the p.m. at the Morrisville-Eaton department wanted to keep a lid Middle/High School Auditori- on what goes on in the prisons. um, 5061 Fearon Rd., Mor- It is not at all serious about the risville. issue of officer safety in any The purpose of this meeting is form. to receive comments on the proposed Georgetown compressor WALTER E. BEVERLY III site, including “alternative site Rome locations under consideration.” So, if the gas industry doesn’t get their dangerous and unsuit- System leaves little able project in Georgetown, they will simply try to move their pro- guy in the dark posal over to the next communi- Have you noticed that certain ty. Therefore, if you don’t want people will cry “class warfare” this compressor in your back whenever someone speaks yard, or anyone’s, it is very about the needs of the non- important to attend this meet- wealthy? ing. It is hardly a war when the CHERYL CARY wealthiest top 10 percent pos- Canastota sess over 80 percent of all financial assets. They control the wealth, resources, media, and Syracuse soccer politics. The wealthiest succeed in distracting us from these team a sleeping giant gross inequities through control of entertainment, professional The Syracuse men’s soccer sports, consumerism, manipu- team (15-2-1) deserves some cov- lating religious beliefs, fear, and erage in the O-D. The O-D does a scapegoating the least powerful. great job covering Syracuse foot- What is most disheartening is ball and basketball and this is that those in control of the an opportunity to give another resources and the media have sport some well earned expo- succeeded in turning the middle sure. class against the poor and the They attained the number 1 ONLINE COMMENTS disabled. They then have the ranking in the nation on Nov. 4 READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM. audacity to cry “class warfare” for the first time in school histo- should anyone take a close look ry. This is a big deal for the at how the empowered gain and school and the northeast EDITORIAL: Community must Lower the prices so people who can’t and more. retain control of all the because most No. 1 teams come act to save Stanley; what do afford to attend can start going. There Adolfo Cova resources, money, power and from other areas of the country. are too many empty seats at events Play movies for discounted rates, like influence in this country. Tax They beat Duke 2-0 at home you think could help turn a that don’t have to be. Sunday in an ACC tournament profit? with an all-season pass, and open a breaks and financial incentives Caren Price concession stand. are for the wealthy and for enor- quarter final and play Louisville PUBLISHED NOV. 9 on Friday in Cary, N.C., in a Better shows and concerts tap into the Rosa Yaromich mous corporations. Show classic movies like did several semi. Sunday’s win over Duke younger generation that make up the Politicians crow about what years ago. In fact, I sent the Stanley a If people aren’t going there is a rea- had a record attendance of 2,533. city population and lower prices a little tidbits they give to the mid- Facebook post sometime ago to consid- son. Either pricing is too high or the dle class, and conceal the Obviously, they will get a high touch. er showing the movie “Ramona,” the quality of the content is low. I have immeasurable advantages they seed for the upcoming NCAA first movie ever shown there. It was Eric Smith lived in Utica almost 10 years and have provide to the chosen few. If tournament. previously a “lost film,” but had been I don’t mind paying the price for qual- never been to the Stanley. I have been there is a war, it is not a fair fight. BRENT TUTTLE recently discovered and restored; I think ity entertainment and I have been in to the Capitol Theatre in Rome numer- It is made worse by a system that Whitesboro the idea was just brushed aside. theaters around the U.S. I have never ous times. Start providing a mix of con- David Kukowski seen another theater where the ushers tent. Do nights of low priced events, I agree with David! The Capitol The- are parading noisily with late arrivals such as classic movie double features as atre does something similar in Rome. up and down the aisles throughout the well as high quality theater produc- show. It spoils the show for those who tions. I bet if “Wicked” would have YOUR VIEW ‘THEY Let the people vote on the films and POLL RESULTS FROM UTICAOD. COM have a series — either over the winter respect the theater experience. There’s been at the Stanley, it would have sold SAID IT’ also very little control of the cell out. I would have gone. Once you have or summer or both. Try to generate The Price Chopper chain plans QUOTES FROM phones and video recording during the mix of content, promote it! If you can’t THE PAGES OF THE O-D interest and use among colleges in the to change its name to Market shows. figure it out then the place needs to area by showcasing local musical tal- 32 in a $300M rebranding close; taxpayers don’t need the burden “It’s so tragic. ents. You don’t need to spend a ton on Nancy Crisino move. Is this a good idea? of supporting another failing business. big-name artists to generate interest. Allow other groups to have time to That’s 126 It’s about promotion and making it use it. Be open minded, advertising Tim Masters families.” something fun to do … with local radio programs of different Bring more concerts! Jefferson Lightset languages. Spanish, Bosnian, Polish Donald Occhipinti CLAUDIA TENNEY– State assemblywoman, after learning Tuesday BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION 21% Yes. It will help freshen the new look. that 126 workers were Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uticaod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can comment on stories by 59% Why change the name? being laid off at Rem- signing in with your Facebook or LinkedIn account. Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Comments selected are based 20% Bring back Chicago Market. ington Arms. It comes on the heels of 105 job on story popularity and writer clarity on the subject. While writers who post comments are identified with their user names here, they losses at the Ilion plant are not contacted in advance of publication. CAST YOUR VOTE DAILY ON THE UTICAOD.COM HOMEPAGE in August.

LETTER GUIDELINES DOONESBURY, By Gary Trudeau ä 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. TODAY’S POLL IS YOUR CHILD STRESSED BECAUSE QUESTION OF SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS? Opinions CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014 | 14A

YOUR VIEWS FEDS NEED TO ACT NOW LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA Everyone should be advocate for young girl with epilepsy During the past few weeks we have been made Grant New York state a waiver so severe cases can be treated 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. “We should be moving heaven and earth It is time for every person in the medical com- to try and get this done so these parents munity of the Mohawk Valley to reach out to this and children don’t have to suffer.” child by petitioning the governor on her behalf in Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica order for her to be immediately evaluated for the use of medical marijuana so that she can lead a he good thing about the push normal, seizure-free life. Why should she have to to accelerate the implemen- wait until 2015 or 2016! She has waited long tation of a new state law enough. authorizing marijuana as a Anyone in the Mohawk Valley with a child treatment for certain med- “seizure free” should also send letters to the gov- ical conditions is that most politicians ernor and/or their state legislators on behalf of Tsupport it. The bad thing is that the this child. Look at any 11-year-old who does not request for a federal waiver to speed have seizures and think of this one child. up the process for high-risk children Let’s come together as a community and see and young people is tangled in govern- that this action is done. Let it be our thousand- ment red tape. person “mail ’n’ march” to those in power that That should infuriate every resident can see that she gets this medication — not in 2016, of this state. It should infuriate them but tomorrow! enough to write to state and federal ANGELA GENTILE representatives in support of the effort Marcy to have the U.S. Department of Justice grant a waiver so New York can import medical marijuana for children and Environmentalists’ actions at young adults like Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills, who suffers every day meeting were insulting from a severe form of epilepsy called Doose syndrome. A young boy in Col- I have attended many lively public hearings for orado — where voters approved the proposed energy projects but nothing has come legal use of medical marijuana in 2000 close to the utter lack of respect and the obvious — has the same condition and has not desperation of the environmentalists and “frack- had a seizure since he started the med- tivists” in attendance in Georgetown, Madison ication two years ago. (see column County. below) From the immediate confrontations, the name- State lawmakers voted earlier this calling, the profanity, all the way to personal year to make New York the 23rd state to attacks about people’s ethnicity and weight. authorize marijuana for patients with The environmentalists’ showed a complete dis- conditions including AIDS, cancer and regard for the FERC hearing officer, the others in epilepsy. The problem is that the pro- attendance and even members of the Madison gram isn’t likely to be up and running County Sheriff’s Department. before 2016 as regulators work out the The biggest insult of the night came when a union member asked that we honor the men and details. That may be too late for some. women of our nation’s military and honor our flag State legislators and advocates of with the Pledge of Allegiance. Many environmen- medical marijuana met in New York talists hissed at this request and some shouted City last Sunday to discuss the issue. out “what a waste of your 3 minutes”. As incredi- Many supporters want to kick-start the bly disheartening as this may be, more than half program for patients like Mackenzie TINA RUSSELL / OBSERVER-DISPATCH of the environmentalists/fracktivists/anti- because time isn’t on their side. At Mackenzie Kulawy, 11, of New York Mills, has epileptic seizures daily that would likely be pipeline folks remained seated during the entire least three children in the state have helped by medical marijuana. New York state has approved a program, but it’s not likely to Pledge of Allegiance. already died since the bill was signed. be up and running until 2016. Political leaders are seeking a federal waiver so New York state That’s right! The same people that travel from Mackenzie developed the condition can import the drug from out-of-state manufacturers and begin the program early for meeting to meeting and scream about and at age 4 and now, at age 11, suffers patients like Mackenzie, but so far there has been no action on it. demand “their rights” do not even have the PLEASE SEE EDITORIAL, 15A decency or respect to honor our nation’s flag. What a classless, ruthless and totally clueless bunch! CARMEN NICOTERA Tell lawmakers to keep pressure on the feds Laborers’ Local 35

FEDERAL ä Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney, R-New Hartford, 5176 St. Route 233, PO Box 597, Westmoreland, NY 13490; phone: 853-2383; fax: 853-2386; email: ä Rep. Richard Hanna, R-Barneveld: 10 Broad St., Utica, NY, 13501, 793- [email protected] ONLINE 8146 or 793-8147 ä Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, Room 401, State Office Building, ä Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-NY: James M. Hanley Federal Building, 100 207 Genesee St., Utica, N.Y. 13501; phone: 732-1055; fax: 732-1413; email: South Clinton St., PO Box 7318, Syracuse, N.Y. 13261. Phone: 423-5471. [email protected] COMMENTS READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM ä Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY: 531 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Wash- ä Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-Rome, State Office Building, 207 Genesee St., Utica, ington, D.C., 20515; phone 202-224-4451 N.Y. 13501; phone: 793-9072; fax: 793-0298; email: QUESTION: What did you think of the plan to NEW YORK STATE [email protected] extend the school day in the Utica? ä Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson, 214 Farrier Ave., Oneida, N.Y. 13421; ä Sen. David J. Valesky, D-Oneida, 805 State Office Building, 333 East Wash- Good idea. phone: 361-4125; fax: 361-4222; email: [email protected] ington St., Syracuse, N.Y. 13202; phone: 478-8745; fax: 474-3804; email: Debra Hoole Kingsley [email protected] ä Assemblyman Marc Butler, R-Newport, 235 N. Prospect St., Suite 101, I think it’ll be hard on the little kids in kindergarten Herkimer, N.Y. 13350; phone: 866-1632; fax: 866-5058; email: ä Sen. James Seward, R-Milford, 235 N. Prospect St., Herkimer, N.Y. 13350; through second grade, but if the ultimate goal is for a high- [email protected] phone: 866-1632; fax: 866-5058; email: [email protected] er 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 These bureaucrats need a good swift kick amount of homework done and play outside and play sports! I think they are in school enough hours to learn. to pay to have her little boy back. he longer I spoke with Katrina Rockwood Jellencich I became angrier the more we talked Heather Jackson, the angrier because there’s a darn good chance that The four schools are an experiment to determine whether I became. I phoned her in the medical marijuana that turned lit- this program should be offered to more school districts. It Colorado Springs, Colo., this DAVE tle Zaki’s life around could probably do may be a good idea, but only after the state corrects the week to talk about her son, DUDAJEK the same thing for Mackenzie. New funding formula that limits the resources Upstate. Zaki. Zaki (pronounced Za-kie’) has York state has approved the use of med- Mark Kall DooseTsyndrome, the same form of He hasn’t had one since. ical marijuana, but the process to get epilepsy that affects 11-year-old Definitely a great idea. Maybe it won’t be so many kids Heather said Zaki takes the liquid the program up and running is so Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills. hanging in the street. Also maybe there will be a lower medication orally — she gives it to him steeped in senseless bureaucracy that Doose syndrome is a very rare, severe dropout rate. in a dropper, the same as you’d give a officials don’t expect to get things going form of epilepsy. Heather told me that Nia Addison child a dose of Tylenol. Unlike the pre- before 2016. Zaki had his first seizure when he was scriptions he took previously, he has A federal waiver to help kids with Pushing kids too hard, too young. just four months old, and by the time he had absolutely no side effects. severe cases like Mackenzie’s is being Becky Linke Koslosky was 5 years old, he had suffered 500,000 Like Mackenzie, Zaki just turned 11. sought from the U.S. Justice Depart- seizures. I couldn’t even imagine the A shame the state put so many restrictions on it … would The epilepsy that ravaged his little ment, but officials there are sitting on have benefitted so many of our struggling students. Anoth- toll that took on his little body, much body for most of those years took its toll their hands like they have all the time er mandate that is impossible to follow through on at the less a loving family that would do any- on development, his mom says, but in the world to make a decision. They expense of the kids. Thanks NYS and Gov. Cuomo. thing to stop their child’s pain and suf- since the seizures stopped he has been might, but many children and young fering. Lou Parrotta making remarkable progress every day. people don’t. We should rename it the Heather tried everything possible to My kid is way smarter than I was at his age. First graders What’s more, unlike his life on prescrip- Department of Injustice. help her little boy, ranging from herbal already are doing equations instead of coloring. I like the tion meds, he eats better, sleeps better Somebody needs to jack up these so- therapy to chiropractics. When nothing curriculum. I also like having my kid home after school. We and isn’t in nearly as much pain as called public servants. They bring worked, Zaki went through 17 different get family time after we do his homework and chores. before. He’s slowly becoming a typical words to mind that I cannot use in the prescription medications — one worse Family time is what this society is lacking not extra school 11-year-old boy — riding his bike, play- newspaper. I will say this: There has not than the next — before Heather heard of hours based on funding. We don’t need the schools to keep ing video games and driving mom nuts. been one recorded death due to med- a family in California using medical That’s a good thing, she says. our children from “hanging in the streets.” We need strong ical marijuana. There are 50,000 deaths marijuana for a similar condition. She Zaki’s medication costs $300 a month adult figures in their lives, and that starts at home. every year due to epilepsy. did some research, and on July 19, 2012, — insurance doesn’t cover it — but Brian Balfe Zaki began treatment. It took several Heather says it’s much less than she Dave Dudajek is opinion page editor for the weeks to adjust the dosage, and on Oct. was spending on other therapies that Observer-Dispatch. Reach him at 315-792-5090 BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION didn’t work. She agrees it’s a small price 3, 2012, Zaki’s seizures stopped. or email [email protected]. 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. COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Comments selected are based on story popularity and writer clarity on the O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. subject. While writers who post comments are identified with TERRY CASCIOLI RON JOHNS DAVE DUDAJEK MATT BECKER their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of Publisher, 792-5002, Executive Editor, 792-5004, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Sports Editor, 792-5030, publication. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] OPINIONS 15A | OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014

TINA RUSSELL / OBSERVER-DISPATCH 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 ture so it could pass legisla- the D.C. Beltway into the minutes. In April, she had to tion to expedite the process. real world and view the drop out of school. In addi- Meanwhile, a request for video that Mackenzie’s mom tion, she must stick to a spe- what would be an unprece- has of her daughter having a cial diet — she says she wants dented federal waiver to seizure. Maybe if their own to eat doughnuts if she ever allow New York state to child or grandchild suffered gets better — and she now import medical marijuana such a fate they’d stop the wears a helmet to prevent from out-of-state manufac- foot-dragging. serious head injuries that turers before the formal “I would not want to live could occur during a state program begins was the life my granddaughter seizure. sent to the Justice Depart- lives,” Mackenzie’s grand- Mackenzie’s grandmother, ment in August by U.S. Sens. mother wrote in an Opinion Patricia Reed, explains that Charles Schumer and page column last Monday. the brain needs to repair Kirsten Gillibrand. “Mackenzie had four itself between seizures, but Schumer spokesman Ange- seizures yesterday resulting as Mackenzie gets older, lo Roefaro said Wednesday in two black eyes and a very that process takes longer. that they have heard noth- large bump on her head. Getting medical marijuana ing to date regarding that The last seizure yesterday now could greatly help her request. was a grand mal seizure chances of resuming a nor- That’s not acceptable. lasting over eight minutes. mal life. Schumer should be livid. … She doesn’t remember The Cuomo administra- He’s got clout in the Senate, any of it, but she feels the tion has tried to speed the and he should be pounding pain from it. Every muscle process for children like on the Justice Department’s in her body hurts and she Mackenzie, and Assembly- door demanding that some- cries.” man Anthony Brindisi, D- thing be done about this. Wake up, Washington. Utica, has called for a spe- The Washington bureau- Stop wasting precious time. cial session of the Legisla- crats needs to step outside Get this done. Now. It’s not your father’s pot The Epilepsy Foundation says it is firmly edical marijuana gets a bum committed to supporting physician directed rap in some circles because care, and to exploring and advocating for all of name recognition — mari- potential treatment options for epilepsy, juana has long been associ- including cannabidiol (CBD) oil and med- ated with getting high. But ical marijuana. In states where medical use don’t let the name confuse you. of marijuana is legal as a treatment for MTetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the epilepsy, a number of people living with marijuana-related compound that will get epilepsy report beneficial effects, including you stoned. That’s why it’s preferred by a decrease in seizure activity. recreational users. “People with uncontrolled seizures live But cannibidiol — CBD — is a non-psy- with the continual risk of serious injuries choactive component of marijuana that sci- and loss of life. If a patient and their health- entific and clinical studies have shown to care professionals feel that the potential have therapeutic benefits to help a wide benefits of medical marijuana for uncon- range of conditions, including arthritis, dia- trolled epilepsy outweigh the risks, then betes, alcoholism, MS, chronic pain, schizo- families need to have that legal option,” the phrenia, PTSD, antibiotic-resistant infec- foundation says. tions — and epilepsy. It does not make users high. – The Observer-Dispatch

ANOTHER VIEW Someone must tame Big Brother Patriot Act anti-terrorism law. here is no question that either Surely, the country has waited long Congress or the courts have to do something about out-of- enough. In fact, if Congress and the pres- control surveillance programs ident can’t get its act together on this in this country. And given the soon, the court should impose its will to choice it would be far more preferable stop these clear violations of privacy forTour elected officials to deal with this against law-abiding people. issue — and promptly. Conceptually, both the president and With that in mind, it’s refreshing to many members of Congress agree that hear Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick there should be limits on these programs Leahy say he is not only pushing a bill - and that there must be some type of that would stop the National Security judicial oversight. Agency from collecting the phone But, to date, they have not ironed out records of millions of Americans, he the details. Americans actually knew believes there is support for passage. very little about extent of the snooping Of course, nothing will happen until programs until they were leaked by for- after the Nov. 4 elections, but there is mer National Security Agency analyst every good reason for Congress to back Edward Snowden. the so-called “USA Freedom Act.” While Congress considers its options, The bill, which has support from a the federal courts are hearing arguments diversity of organizations, would halt the regarding these matters, providing NSA’s outrageous methods of collecting another powerful reason why our feder- phone records en masse and instead ally elected officials shouldn’t dawdle. allow the agency to target only suspected U.S. intelligence agencies need rea- terrorists. sonable room to operate; they perform Leahy has support of both Senate incredibly important tasks and a number Republican and Democratic leaders, of terror-related plots have been snuffed and the House of Representatives also out since 9/11. has signaled its backing of similar legis- But vital “checks and balances” lation. shouldn’t be lost in the process. As they Congress and President Obama have stand, surveillance tactics are too arbi- until mid-2015 to do something before trary and sweeping. A reasonable com- the NSA and other federal law enforce- promise is achievable and must get done. ment agencies could lose their surveillance tools, under a provision of the — The Poughkeepsie Journal TODAY’S POLL DO YOU PACK HEALTHIER LUNCHES QUESTION THAN SCHOOLS PROVIDE? Opinions CAST YOUR VOTE AT UTICAOD.COM OBSERVER-DISPATCH | SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2014 | 16A

YOUR VIEWS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Taxpayers shouldn’t have to pick up Stanley slack 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 cit- SUBMITTED PHOTO izen boards. Someone dug the huge financial Mackenzie Kulawy of New York Mills, who has a rare form of epilepsy, undergoes an electroencephalography (EEG) recently in Syra- hole the Stanley is in now. Should the taxpayer cuse. 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. be forced to pay for what is obviously bad man- The EEG, which measures brain activity, has to be done sleep-deprived, which is difficult because any seizure activity causes extreme agement and decision making? fatigue, her grandmother, Patricia Reed, said. 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. FIGHT FOR MACKENZIE, RODGER POTOCKI New Hartford OTHERS MUST GO ON Sauquoit elementary students did great job for veterans Leaders must break through bureaucracy for decency’s sake Sauquoit Elementary School makes us proud to have our grandchildren go there. Veterans were honored by a unique tribute. They teach its use under expanded access. This students to honor, respect and appreciate the his past week, the U.S. Jus- people that have given us and protect our free- tice Department denied essentially provides access now “to dom. New York state a waiver to The shame of this is that the lives of treatments for patients with serious or We need more of this in schools, to teach patri- import medical marijuana immediately life-threatening diseases Mackenzie and others like her hang in otism. I dare you to listen to the students belt out that could be used to treat or conditions while preserving impor- “Proud to Be an American” and not get tears in severe forms of epilepsy in children the balance because of state and federal tant protections for those patients.” your eyes! likeT11-year-old Mackenzie Kulawy of bureaucracies that have created a knot GW Pharmaceuticals said there are more than 300 patients now being treat- The principal gave a heartfelt speech. The vet- New York Mills. of red tape that defies common sense erans, seated together, were surrounded by their It would be understated to call the ed through this program, including and human decency. many patients with seizure disorders. families. They were given “medals” made by the denial disappointing. Despite unprece- kindergartener — red, white and blue stars with a In June, New York became the second dented bipartisan support from all penny in the middle, “thank you” on the back. state to enter into an agreement with political corners at the state and feder- Second graders made a snack pouch, handwrit- would be to seek the federal waiver. GW (Georgia was the first) to develop al level, Assistant U.S. Attorney Gener- ten by them, each item was a symbol of something al Peter J. Kadzik essentially said that New York’s two U.S. senators, Charles clinical trials using Epidiolex. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along (a pretzel — “we fold our arms to hug each veter- granting a waiver would be contrary to The elephant in the room here is Big an and say thank you.” Third and fourth graders the law. with Rep. Richard Hanna, R-Barn- Pharma, which now has its clutches in eveld, and 17 of his House colleagues, proudly sang “America the Beautiful.” The battle cannot end here. The something that more likely than not Two wonderful things happened that day. Chil- shame of this is that the lives of wrote the Justice Department request- will be all about money — not improving ing the waiver. dren were filled with pride. Veterans were filled Mackenzie and others like her hang in or even saving little lives. Mackenzie’s with love and gratitude. They all had a chance to the balance because of state and feder- In a letter dated Nov. 18, Assistant grandmother, Patricia Reed, who Attorney General Kadzik said the waiv- talk. One emotionally summed it up: “I have been al bureaucracies that have created a retired to help care for her grand- er was denied “because it would not out of the service for 45 years. This is the first knot of red tape that defies logic and daughter, said the family is not familiar time I have been thanked.” human decency. Elected leaders who comply with the requirements of the with Epidiolex and they are skeptical JOYCE BOJDAK have fought this fight cannot turn back Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the Controlled Substances Act.” In other about it being the right way to go since Clayville now. They must keep pushing because there are so many unknowns. There are for some, time is running out. words, the FDA’s drug approval process not even any assurances that Macken- Time already has run out for three must be followed. No exceptions. zie could get into the program. children who have died since New Kadzik did suggest as an alternative On the other hand, the marijuana ONLINE York lawmakers approved the use of the experimental drug, Epidiolex, medical marijuana earlier this year to which uses a pure derivative of mari- strain Charlotte’s Web – approved by treat patients with conditions including juana, cannabidiol (CBD) — the same New York legislators – has proven to COMMENTS AIDS, cancer and epilepsy. But instead ingredient that’s been known to help help a Colorado boy and others with READER OPINIONS COMPILED FROM STORIES PUBLISHED AT UTICAOD.COM the same condition as Mackenzie. A dis- of just moving ahead with a program others. Epidiolex is manufactured by The price of gas in the Utica-Rome area now — other states have had programs GW Pharmaceuticals of Britain. appointed Brindisi said Friday that the in place for years — New York’s brain- In a letter to New York state’s acting best way now to help Mackenzie and remains far above the national average. trusts decided they couldn’t get one commissioner of health, Kadzik said others like her would be to fast-track Your thoughts? going until 2016. That’s ridiculous. the Justice Department supports New York’s program. PUBLISHED NOV. 18 Leaders, including Assemblyman research on Epidiolex’s potential He’s right. We implore him and his I recently traveled outside of Rome and paid $2.76/gal. I capacity to treat multiple conditions, Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, said that the colleagues to find a way to expedite was frustrated that we are so high in Rome. quickest way to get medical marijuana and in June 2014 FDA granted the drug implementation. We can’t wait until Maria Fulgieri for Mackenzie and children like her Fast-Track designation and authorized 2016 to help these children. It’s $2.77 here in Zephyrhills, Florida. Karen Geisinger COMMENT ON THIS EDITORIAL AT UTICAOD.COM/OPINIONS $3.21 in Dolgeville. $2.61 in New Jersey, and it is all full O-D EDITORIAL BOARD EDITORIALS ARE THE CONSENSUS OPINION OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD. service. TERRY CASCIOLI RON JOHNS DAVE DUDAJEK MATT BECKER Jim Hoover Publisher, 792-5002, Executive Editor, 792-5004, Opinions Page Editor, 792-5090, Sports Editor, 792-5030, [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 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 Michael Hughes It’s still nearly 40 cents cheaper than it has been in over a year. I’m not complaining. New vision,energy needed to save th e Stanley Amanda Mills Nation Enterprise have negatively Folks, you can’t compare our prices in Central NY with any have fond memories impacted the Stanley.Unfortunately, out-of-state prices. Taxes are the main reason. Our two of the Stanley Theatre, suppliers keep the prices high. PS: No two Stewarts have which has been part our economic downturns will continue and the Nation will expand. The Stanley the same price. community’sfabric for RICK decades. Saturday mati- must have a plan to deal with these and John E Fox FLISNIK other challenges. nees watching The Three Stooges’ with $2.36 in Gaffney, South Carolina. The Oneida County Legislature and myMbrother and grandfather a half centu- Kiana Reed ry ago is etched in my memory. additional county bonding request of $1 county taxpayers have long supported Times have changed and so has this million. I proposed a reasonable plan to the Stanley, earmarking millions of dol- Prices locally are highest in the nation! Even higher than grand theater. It has had its share of good add a $1 ticket surcharge. This would lars to the theater. In this year’s county California! Just like anything else, they will stick it to us as and bad times. have assisted the county in paying off it’s budget, approximately $230,000 will be long as they can! Past Executive Director Ron bonding debt for this expenditure. spent for past Stanley bonding debt. We Dave Surprenant Thiele was instrumental in lobbying and My proposal was rejected by fellow still owe $1.3 million for the 2008 project! $2.47 in Hilton Head island, South Carolina. securing financing for a Stanley The- legislators. Thiele indicated this sur- Spending additional county dollars atre Capital Project completed in 2008 at charge would be a “regressive penalty now would be fiscally irresponsible. Jake Riley a price tag of $23.1 million. He promised on a select part of the population.” The past Stanley fundraising slogan A friend just posted gas at $2.35 in Baton Rouge. the needed improvements would result Fast forward six years and the plea was “You Give Us the Stage, We’ll Give Andrea Caiello McCarthy in a 30-to-40 percent increase in days of again is made for more county taxpayer You the World.” Sadly,taxpayers did operation, number of events and net rev- dollars. Thiele is long gone and his prom- their part, but Stanley caretakers have enue, therefore making it financially ises forgotten by some. not. I wish new Executive Director Jerry BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION viable. Additionally, a fundamental com- What happened to the promise of this Kraus the best in turning this magnifi- Online commentary is pulled from stories published on uti- ponent of the project included a Stanley theater being financially viable? cent theater around. His hiring was a caod.com and from O-D Facebook posts. You can comment on endowment fund, which was to foster a What happened to the endowment stories by signing in with your Facebook or LinkedIn account. good start. A new vision and energy for Commentary published in print is subject to editing. Comments fiscally sound and strong operation fund? this grand old theater is desperately selected are based on story popularity and writer clarity on the reserve. Why were benchmarks set, but never needed! subject. While writers who post comments are identified with As an elected county legislator I sup- achieved? their user names here, they are not contacted in advance of ported capital funding for this theater in It is understood the recession begin- Rick Flisnik is an Oneida County legislator from publication. 2004 and 2005. In 2006, I questioned an ning in 2008 and expansion of the Oneida Marcy.