Pine Plains News

PINE PLAINS - Story time withDr. Seuss, valedictorian speech in song and 'the wave' were how the class of 2009 ended their Stissing Mountain High School careers Saturday morning.

Ceremonies have begun in Dutchess County with thousands expected to graduate in commencements this morning and later today.

PINE PLAINS - The graduation ceremony for Stissing Mountain High School included story time, an American Idol-like performance and the graduates doing the wave.

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office is investigating a two-car crash in the Town of Pine Plains Saturday that killed one of the drivers.

As thousands of students pick up their high school diplomas throughout the mid-Hudson Valley, the state has released distressing figures showing how many children never get that far.

PINE PLAINS - Town officials have submitted and approved changes made to the draft zoning law and hope to have it available for public review within the coming weeks.

Ten of the region's 18 high schools increased graduation rates last year, according to data released Monday by state education officials.

MILAN - Two teenagers are recovering from a fiery pickup truck crash after a father and son braved the flames to pull them from the burning wreckage - just minutes before the truck exploded.

Held up amid the chaos of the state Senate leadership fight is a resolution allowing Dutchess County to extend sales and mortgage taxes.

A Palenville man was shot dead and his wife wounded by their former housemate during an early morning confrontation Wednesday in their driveway, police said.

State police say a man has been charged with murder and assault after he fatally shot another man and wounded the man's wife outside their home in the Catskill Mountains.

CICERO - Demonstrating equal parts excellence, versatility and physical fitness, Ashley Mahlmeister on Saturday rounded out one unforgettable high school track & field finale.

The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office will get $1.2 million officials need to pay for housing inmates in facilities outside the county.

Red Hook Rotary Club President Jonah Triebwasser has been named an assistant governor of Rotary District 7210 in the Hudson Valley for 2009-10. Triebwasser will act as liaison between Dutchess County clubs and the Rotary District.

A bill that would ban drivers from sending text messages on their phones will go to County Executive William Steinhaus for consideration.

Hot dogs sizzled on a grill, music blared from speakers and Frisbees flew around a field Sunday as about 100 people enjoyed a picnic at Chenango Valley State Park.

Binghamton Pride Coalition's annual Pride celebration is growing. Now in its fifth year, the monthlong event in downtown Binghamton will have more offerings in more locations this year, organizers said.

PINE PLAINS - A Memorial Day parade and ceremony in Pine Plains took an emotional turn as American Legion Commander George Keeler gave a speech honoring local residents and veterans that had passed away over the previous year.

PINE PLAINS - Town officials gathered last week to consider potential changes to the town's zoning law, making big strides toward final approval.

Polls have begun opening in several area school districts, with others opening throughout the day.