99 NEWS HEADLINES FOR FRIDAY, 2/20/09

NO REFERENDUM FOR HOSPITAL ZONING--Potsdam Village Administrator Mike Weil told Trustees this week it is his belief, based on research, that a Local Law that would establish zoning for Canton-Potsdam Hospital cannot be subject to a referendum, as zoning is not a subject where referenda apply. Bonding, the use of a capital reserve and other financial matters are, however possible referendum topics.

MORE JOB LOSSES FOR ALCOA--The aluminum giant announced yesterday that 64 more hourly workers will be cut at the West Cast House and the Global Hard Alloy Extrusion Division  at Massena. This, on top of 140 jobs cut last fall and cutbacks to hours for other workers.

THE TAUNY 'PEA SOUP AND JOHNNY CAKE' STORY--Traditional Arts in Upstate New York recently had its popular, annual fund-raising meal shut down by the State Health Department, as it was not prepared in a state-inspected commercial kitchen. Non-profits around the county are concerned. St. Lawrence County Arts Council Board President Jay Pecora told us the crackdown puts a serious dent in the ability to fund-raise and build community.

ALSO ONLINE....ANOTHER AKWESASNE DRUG-WEAPON BUST...SEN. SCHUMER WANTS COUNTIES PUT IN DRUG ENFORCEMENT AREA...ECSTASY SMUGGLER PLEADS GUILTY...AND MORE

OBITUARIES:

John Barnett Heaton--90--Canton. Services 8pm Saturday at O'Leary Funeral Home, Canton. Calling Hours saturday 2-4, 7-8pm.