Opinion

New York is well known for government. We have lots of it. Central New York is no exception, and that’s why I’m proud that Onondaga County is the first in the state to examine whether we have the best structure and the best practices for our governance. Together, we have a unique opportunity to shape […]

Now, you could get upset over all the whoppers that public figures fling at you. You could proclaim that evil abounds across the fruited plain.    Or, you could become philosophical. The way we did at one of the world’s greatest schools of philosophy — my father’s saloon: the Empire Hotel. I call it the

The second biggest budget item in the state budget is education, which is right behind health care. Last year, the state spent $22.3 billion on education. In 2012, combined with the local and federal share of education, New Yorkers spent $58.4 billion on public education. That’s up 56 percent over combined spending in 2002.    This

Will Rogers said that when Congress makes a law, it’s a joke. And when it makes a joke, it’s a law. These days, when the president makes a budget it’s a joke. Because Congress won’t even read it.   I don’t blame Congress. For a simple reason — the economy struggles big time. Yet the

On Dec. 11, Central New York has named a top performer in the state’s competitive Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) process, and awarded $80.2 million for 85 projects that will have a direct impact on our region.  By demonstrating a best-in-class track record for leveraging investment, providing a strong return on investment, and successfully completing

It is fashionable these days to speak about “teachable moments.” The crisis du jour often becomes one. Well, there is a teachable moment emanating from the White House that is powerful. It is curious. Like any good teaching, it can open the eyes of people in any number of situations. The teachable moment is that

Three cheers to Oneida County Executive Anthony J. (Tony) Picente, Jr., who is acting as the catalyst to turn the Mohawk Valley into the next technology hub. Last year, he initiated his “Vision 2020” project to build on the golden opportunity presented by New York state’s investment in the Marcy campus. In his words: “We’re

Snowfall totals that came with the historic snowstorm in November made national headlines. Erie and Wyoming counties reported 80 inches of snow. Parts of Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego counties reported more than 30 inches and as many as 50 inches. Unfortunately, 13 deaths have been attributed to the storm. Following the storm’s wake, Governor Andrew