WCDO Radio News

Governor Cuomo today signed into law sweeping election reforms that will make it easier for New Yorkers to vote and be counted in November. The 3-part package includes new measures allowing absentee ballot applications to be submitted to the Board of Elections immediately, expanding the necessary protections to allow a voter to get an absentee ballot due to risk or fear of illness including COVID-19 and ensuring all absentee ballots postmarked on or before Election Day or received by the Board of Elections without a postmark on the day after the Election will be counted. Ballots with a postmark demonstrating that they were mailed on or before Election Day will be counted if received by November 10.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 39 year old Daniel Merwin of Jefferson for the 1st degree Assault, plus Menacing, Criminal Mischief & 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, they also arrested 37 year old Jeremy Chase of Harpersfield for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Reckless Endangerment, Menacing & 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  Troopers and Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a dispute between neighbors with a shot fired.  Merwin is accused of striking Chase with a wooden fence post & using his vehicle to damage a fence, Chase is accused shooting a firearm into the ground, and the altercation allegedly took place in the presence of children.  Merwin and Chase were processed & will appear at the town of Harpersfield court on August 24th.

U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced $286,263 in federal funding to expand nursing opportunities and combat workforce shortages in the Southern Tier.   The funding will be used to establish clinical education and training programs in the region at UHS, SUNY and Broome County hospitals.  The Appalachian Regional Commission will provide $110,111 of the total $286,263 project fund.

Representatives from Casinos across the state were rallying in Albany today, as they seek guidance from the Governor's Office & The State Health Department in order to re-open.   Todd Chandler is the Assistant General Manager & Regional Director of Marketing for Tioga Downs; he told WCDO News that they have taken all the precautions for reopening, and casinos are always under intense scrutiny:

(Todd Chandler 8-6-20)

Chandler said that if Tioga Downs does not reopen by October 1st, the furloughed employees would officially become unemployed.  About 5000 New Yorkers were employed at casinos prior to the beginning of the pandemic & the subsequent shutdown.

Governor Cuomo and the State Health Department announced the latest statewide COVID 19 numbers on Wednesday.  There were 601 new cases discovered Wednesday, about .78% of all those tested, which brings the state total to over 427,800.  There are 518 people Hospitalized, 120 are in an ICU, 62 are on ventilators, there were 5 deaths from the virus, the state death toll since March is 25,275

Broome County Health Department reported a small increase in their COVID 19 positive tests; they are up to 1128 total cases since March, with 75 deaths, 989 recoveries, and 500 being monitored by the Health Department.  The have performed over 34,300 tests.

State Police arrested 21 year old Jordan Pratt of Ithaca for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon.  Troopers monitoring traffic on I-88 in Otego observed a vehicle a traffic infraction, troopers detected an odor of marijuana;   Pratt is accused of possessing 2 illegal and loaded handguns and a quantity of drugs.  The driver and 2 other passengers were not charged.  Pratt was arraigned virtually and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

The Otsego County Health Department announced another free COVID 19 testing site Today from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, at the Southside Mall Parking Lot in Oneonta.  The testing is for people who are not sick but want to be tested, by a nasal swab.  This is a drive up testing site. Individuals will be required to remain in their vehicle and wear a mask when pulling up to the testing tent.  This testing site is for Otsego County residents only, call 547-4279 to pre-register for the clinic.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host its 34th Annual Chamber Classic Golf Tournament today at the Oneonta Country Club, with a 1:00 PM shotgun start.  The event will follow all Social Distancing Guidelines and Safety Protocols.   A portion of the event proceeds will be donated to the Community Foundation of Otsego County.  More information is available at 432-4500.

Delaware County received 1 new positive test result for COVID-19 Wednesday and 1 additional recovery is reported. The number of active cases in the County is 3, they are isolated & recovering at home, there have been 100 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 23 people now under mandatory quarantine, 6 people have died and 91 have fully recovered.

Governor Cuomo concluded his 111 day string of Coronavirus briefings today in Albany; he reminded New Yorkers that although the state now has the lowest infection rate, 22 states are still seeing large increases in positive cases & New Yorkers must remain vigilant:

(Cuomo 6-19-20)

The state has 1284 people hospitalized, & is averaging about 25 deaths daily, the state death toll is 24, 686.  New York has had a total of 386,556 positive Coronavirus cases, currently just less than 1% are testing positive.

The State Department of Labor announced that the state economy added 137,300 Private sector jobs in May to 6.6 Million jobs.  The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 15.3% to 14.5% in May, the number of unemployed New Yorkers decreased by 76,300.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced a more than $1 million grant for Opportunities for Chenango. The funds are administered through the Department of Health and Human Services, & will be used for the Head Start Program.

Nick Libous is once again running for the Republican Party nomination in the 122nd Assembly District, following the announcement that Cliff Crouch was retiring after 25 years in the Assembly.  Libous Told WCDO News what his priorities are:

(Nick Libous 6-19-20)

Libous faces 3 other Republicans in the June 23rd Primary, James Powers, Vic Furman & Joe Angelino.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and 2 additional recoveries, there have been 80 confirmed positive cases, 10 people are quarantined, 1 person is in the hospital, 1 is isolated at home, 5 people have died and 73 have fully recovered.

Early Voting for next Tuesday's primaries will run through Sunday, Question about early voting, or the polling sites on Tuesday can be found on the county websites of by calling Broome County Board of Elections: 778-2172,  Chenango County Board of Elections: 337-1760, Delaware County Board of Elections: 832-5321 or the Otsego County Board of Elections: 547-4247

Otsego County is in receipt of hand sanitizer from New York State to be distributed to businesses that prove they have completed the business affirmation required on the NY Forward website.  Any business may request and receive two gallons of hand sanitizer and one pump for their business.  Businesses can contact the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services at 547-4227.

Governor Cuomo welcomed the Floating Naval Hospital to New
York City today, giving the city added help for its beleaguered Hospitals at
the epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak.
Cuomo said that the number of positive cases statewide is 66,497, the
number of deaths jumped to 1,218, the number Hospitalized is now over 9500, the
number of ICU Beds occupied is 2352, & the number discharged from hospitals
is now 4202.  The statistics also showed
that the rate of increase is slowing down:

(Cuomo 3-30-20 doubling the rate)

Governor Cuomo also said that too many people are treating
the "Stay At Home" mandate like it was optional:

(Cuomo 3-30-20 stay home)

Local officials have expressed concern that too many people
are leaving the most affected areas and are coming to Otsego & Delaware
Counties to wait it out, and they could be driving up the local numbers &
threatening the local population and healthcare systems.

State Senator Jim Seward's office announced today that the
Senator & his wife Cindy both tested positive for the Coronavirus.  Seward has displayed mild Symptoms and is expected
to be released from Albany Medical Center shortly, while Cindy Seward was
treated & released from Bassett Hospital and is recovering while
quarantined at home, both are expected to fully recover.

NYSEG today announced they are donating approximately 17,700
protective masks to assist health care workers across the state amid a shortage
of protective gear for medical personnel fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The
donation comes on the heels of Governor Cuomo’s call for assistance as New York
continues to face increasing strains on the health care system. The surgical
masks and N95 respirators are being delivered to a state receiving center,
where officials will disperse them to facilities most in need.

Chenango County Health Department announced this morning that they have 14 positive cases of the Coronavirus, with 10 more positives over the weekend.  Otsego County also had 14 Positives with 1 death, Delaware County Had 12; Broome County has 29, with 3 deaths.

The Unadilla Community Food Pantry is open to residents of
Unadilla on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00-12:30 with curb side
service.  More information is available
at 563-7713.

The Community Foundation for
South Central New York has released $110,000 in grants to organizations
providing services during the COVID-19 Crisis in the region. The Friends of Recovery
Delaware/Otsego will receive $5,000, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier will
get $7,500 for meal delivery programs, Delaware Opportunities receives $15,000
for meal delivery programs, Chenango United Way gets $15,000 for their
community response, Opportunities for Otsego receives $15,000 for their
community response to COVID-19, & ARC of Delaware County receives $2,500
for the Walton Food Pantry.  More
information about the Foundation can be found at donorswhocare.org.

Governor Cuomo stated yesterday that there were 59,573 cases
of the Corona Virus in the State, with 965 deaths, over 8500 are in Hospitals,
2037 were in ICU Beds, & 3572 have been discharged.   The Governor talked about the heroism of all
the 1st Responders during this crisis:

(Cuomo 3-30-20)

Governor Cuomo announced all New York on Pause functions
will be extended for the next 2 weeks; the state nonessential workforce will
continue to work from home for an additional two weeks through April 15th.
Executive Orders regarding the closing of restaurants and bars, gyms, movie
theaters, casinos; local government workforces, school districts; malls, public
amusement facilities; barber shops & salons are also extended until April
15th.

The Otsego County Coronavirus Task Force is asking
Individuals who are traveling to Otsego County from the New York City and other
areas hard hit by COVID-19, to notify the Otsego County Department of Health
upon their arrival by phone and self-isolate for 14 days. During the 14-day
period, you should monitor all household members for signs and symptoms of
COVID-19. These include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Acco Brands Bargaining employees will be having their
Contract Extension Vote today at the CWA Sidney Union Hall 9 River Street;
until 6:00 PM.  Only 2 people will be
allowed in the hall at a time because of the Corona Virus recommendations
regarding social distancing.

Governor Cuomo announced that
they are still looking to get enough Ventilators into the state to address the
expected increase in Coronavirus cases over the next 3 weeks:

(Cuomo 3-26-20)

Cuomo said that the added
problem is that the normal usage for ventilators by patients is 3 days, but for
Corona Virus patients it has been 11 to 13 days.  The current amount of Coronavirus cases in
New York State is 37,258, with 385 deaths, over 5300 are hospitalized, just
under 1300 are in an ICU bed, & 1517 patients have been discharged.

Delaware County Sheriff’s
Deputies and Delhi Fire Department and Emergency Squad responded Monday Evening
to a reported tractor-trailer accident at the intersection of County Highway 2
and East Terry Clove Road in the Town of Delhi. 35 year-old David Stanton of
Oneonta was the operator of the tractor trailer loaded with logs; it
jack-knifed on the slush covered roadway and partially rolled onto its side as
Stanton attempted a left turn.  Stanton
was not injured in the accident, but the highway remained closed for several
hours for the cleanup.

Governor Cuomo announced that a
mental health hotline is available to New Yorkers who need it. We can't
underestimate the impact this pandemic is having on mental health. I'm proud
that over 6,000 mental health professionals have volunteered their time to help
with New York's Coronavirus response. For free emotional support, consultation
and referral to a provider, call 1-844-863-9314.

Binghamton Police arrested 34
year old Lucas Pruitt of Binghamton in connection with 2 recent armed
robberies.  Pruitt was charged with 2
counts of 2nd degree robbery for the march 9th robbery at the Kwik Fill at 263
Main Street, and the March 15th robbery at the Speedway at 63 Main Street.  Pruitt is being held in the city lockup
pending arraignment.

The State Division of Consumer
Protection is alerting consumers about scammers taking advantage of the novel
coronavirus. Scammers are using techniques such as falsely claiming to be
online sellers of popular goods; setting up fake charities; sending fake emails
and texts that contain harmful links designed to steal your personal
information and using robocalls to pitch coronavirus treatments and work at
home schemes.  More information is
available at 800-697-1220, or dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection.

Delaware County Public Health
announced that the current total of laboratory confirmed positive COVID-19
cases received in Delaware County is 5, excluding the 3 cases transferred to
the county where the individuals are actually residing. Public Health SpokespersonHeather
Warner told WCDO News that while these numbers may seem low, there is still a
threat to all who do not practice handwashing, social distancing and the other
suggestions by health officials:

(Heather Warner 3-26-20)

Warner said that there are 2
cases that are recovering at home here in Delaware County, 3 cases are isolated
and receiving medical care in a hospital.
There are 8 people under mandatory quarantine and 5 people under
precautionary quarantine.

The Otsego County Department of
Health is investigating two more lab confirmed cases of COVID 19. One case is a
close contact to a confirmed case and one was tested out of county. The
investigations are ongoing and all contacts are being notified and quarantined.
The number of lab confirmed cases is 4.

A list of Delaware County food
pantries is available online, that are served by Delaware Opportunities. The
list is available at delawareopportunities.org/homeless-assistance

State Police and the Otsego County Sheriff’s Department were
dispatched to a report of a pedestrian struck by a tractor trailer with a dump
trailer Wednesday at approximately 1:44 p.m., on County Road 22 in Schuyler
Lake.    An initial investigation reveals
that the tractor trailer with the dump trailer was traveling on County Road 22
when 47 year old Clarence Travis of Exeter stepped into the path & was
struck.  Travis was taken to a Utica Hospital
& succumbed to his injuries, the driver of the tractor trailer was not
injured, and the incident remains under investigation.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering
low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to New York small
businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the
Coronavirus.   Applicants may apply
online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download
applications at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela or call (800) 659-2955 or email
disastercustomerservice@sba.gov

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will host his 2nd Coronavirus
Telephone Town Hall this afternoon, where he will be joined by Local Health
Care Experts & Officials to Field Questions Regarding Global Pandemic.  Brindisi's Telephone town hall will begin at
3:30 this afternoon, constituents are advised to RSVP at
Brindisi.House.gov/live to receive a call, or they can call 855-614-0159, the
call will be streamed at Brindisi.house.gov/live.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works announced
that their Brisben and North Norwich Facilities are both closed until further
notice.  The Landfill in the Town of
Pharsalia is Open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4PM to Residents and
haulers.  Saturday the landfill will be
open from 8AM to 4PM for residential bagged garbage only, more information is
available at 337-1792

The Sidney Town Clerk’s office announced that they will be
closed to the public next week due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.  Town Clerk Sheila Paul announced that all payments,
dog licenses, handicap placard applications, and any other services needed from
the Town Clerk’s Office may be sent by mail or left in the drop box at the Town
Office at 44 Grand Street.  More
information is available at 561-2334, 237-6394 or by Email:
Clerk@townofsidney.com

Governor Cuomo signed an executive order temporarily
modifying election procedures to help reduce the spread of the
coronavirus.  The order suspends the
candidate petitioning process for the June primaries for Congressional, State
Senate, State Assembly and Judicial races, it also modifies the signature
requirements for ballot access; & modifies deadlines and procedures
regarding absentee voting.

Governor Cuomo announced 221 new cases of COVID-19 in New
York, bringing the statewide total to 950, 1 New York City Department of
Corrections officer has died from the Coronavirus, bring the state death count
to 4.  The governor also announced a
tri-state effort to curb the spread of the virus.  Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced that they will limit crowd
capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, also restaurants
and bars will close for on premise service and will have take-out and delivery services
only, they also will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol.   The 3 governors will temporarily close movie
theaters, gyms and casinos, all of these restrictions go into effect at 8:00 PM
tonight.

State lawmakers are still in Albany this week, trying to
wrap up the State budget early, Assemblyman Cliff Crouch Comments:

(Crouch 3-16-20)

2 members of the State Assembly, Helene Weinstein &
Charles Barron, both of Brooklyn, have tested positive for the
Coronavirus.  The state Capital will be
closed to visitors & all legislative buildings will be vigorously cleaned.

19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado announced today
that he will have to close his offices in Washington DC and in his home
district.  Public meeting & Town
Halls will also be postponed.  More information
is available at Delgado.house.gov.

The Town of Unadilla announced that they are closing the
Town Hall until further notice due to the Coronavirus situation.  All court session are cancelled, any court
payments can be made online, can be mailed or put in the drop box outside, Dog
License & Handicapped applications can be mailed, the date for Dog
Enumeration will be extended until the end of Aprils, and Tax payments may be
mailed or put in the drop box. More information is available at 369-4922 or by
email: unadillaclerk@stny.rr.com

The Sidney Town Clerk's office announced that they will be
closed to the public for 2 weeks due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.  Town Clerk Sheila Paul announced that she
will continue to work, all payments, dog licenses, handicap placard
applications, and any other services needed from the Town Clerk’s Office may be
sent by mail or left in the drop box at the Town Office.  More information is available at 561-2334,
237-6394 or by Email: Clerk@townofsidney.com

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced that
they are closed to the public, in accordance with recommendations by the CDC to
limit opportunities for large gatherings and the further spread of the COVID-19
virus. The Hall of Fame will provide updated information regarding this closure
on each subsequent Sunday, at baseballhall.org and by social media
channels.  As a precautionary measure due
to the COVID-19 virus, our 2020 Hall of Fame Classic Weekend events have been
canceled.

The State DEC announced that the
statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning begins today and runs
through May 14th, as conditions for wildfires are heightened in
springtime.  When temperatures are warmer
and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread
easily and be further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation.  More information is available at dec.ny.gov.

Governor Cuomo announced that the statewide total of coronavirus
cases has increased to 729, and 3 deaths have been confirmed.  The deaths were an 88 year old woman in
Brooklyn with emphysema, and a 65 year old man with many health problems &
a 79 year old female with many serious illnesses.  Governor Cuomo said that they are working on
a plan regarding schools; he said that closing all schools brings up other
issues:

(Cuomo 3-16-20)

Cuomo said that they are working to increase testing for the
Corona Virus rapidly, they are trying to convince more businesses to have
employees work from home, and they are trying to increase hospital capabilities
rapidly.

Delaware County Officials have declared a State of Emergency
effective through Monday April 13, 2020.
The order calls for the suspension of all classroom and extracurricular
functions at all public schools, except for administrative and staff functions,
the Order shall take effect Wednesday, March 18th & will remain in effect
until April 14th.  Also, the Delaware
County Office for the Aging Senior Meal sites and Senior Transit have stopped
operations until April 14th.

Chenango County Officials announced Sunday afternoon that
they have issued a State of Emergency.
Chenango County Schools will be closed Monday, but staff must report.
The state of Emergency will require all county schools to close from Wednesday,
through April 14th.  Unadilla Valley
& Oxford Academy announced that they will close Monday & will remain
closed Tuesday & then through April 14th.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announced that due to
the increased cases of the Coronavirus, all visitation and programs at the
Delaware County Correctional Facility will be suspended until further notice.
More information is available at 832-5607.

All Otsego, Schoharie, Broome & Tioga County Schools
will be closed starting today.  Many Delaware
& Chenango County Schools will be closed today for students, but staff
members must report, decisions on Tuesday for some of those schools have not
been made, more information will be posted on each school's website.

Several Area Officials met Friday to decide how to handle
the Coronavirus issue locally, Bainbridge Mayor Phil Wade comments:

(Phil Wade 3-16-20)

Wade said that those who would like to sign up for the
Bainbridge, Sidney or Unadilla Email blasts known as Small Town Connects,
should contact the village offices to sign up.

An Otsego County Grand Jury has indicted Dylan Robinson,
Alexander Borgreen, Anais Soto and Nicolas Meridy for the murder of 53 year old
Kenneth Robinson inside his Worcester home in October.  The 4 have been charged with 2nd degree
Murder, Burglary and Attempted Robbery for breaking into the Robinson house in
Worcester to allegedly steal marijuana and cash & Dylan Robinson allegedly
shot his father in the chest and the head, Robinson, Meridy and Borgreen are
also accused of setting the house on fire, all four will be arraigned on the
Grand Jury counts shortly.

Governor Cuomo announced that $56.5 million in state funding
has been awarded to 15 projects that will provide housing for homeless
individuals and families. The projects will create nearly 600 units of
permanent supportive housing and 40 emergency shelter beds for veterans,
survivors of domestic violence and individuals with mental illness.  Organizations receiving Homeless Housing and
Assistance Program funding include Opportunities for Broome, with a $7.5
million project that will create 27 units and 80 beds of supportive housing for
homeless families and individuals. Four existing, dilapidated structures in
downtown Binghamton will be rehabilitated for supportive housing.

Governor Cuomo announced a statewide holiday drive to
benefit families in need across New York. Donations of new unwrapped toys,
coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based
organizations during the holiday giving season.
The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations which will
be collecting donations from Monday, November 25 through Friday, December 13;
area locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street
& the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Broadway in Binghamton will bring "Rudolph the Red
Nosed Reindeer" to the Forum in Binghamton next month, Tina Niles of NAC
Entertainment explains;

(Tina Niles 11-20-19)

More information about this & other shows can be found
at Broadway in Binghamton.com.

A 2nd New York State resident has died as a result of
vaping.  The State Department of Health
reported a Manhattan man in his 30s died from causes related to vaping. The man
is said to have had a history if using vape and e-cigarette products, the
investigation is ongoing.

The Broome County Sheriff’s
Office is looking for Kristopher Shimer on multiple outstanding warrants.  Shimer is described as a White Male, 5’9”,
160 pounds with brown eyes & brown hair, anyone with information is asked
to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com at the
Sheriff’s Tipline.

Oneonta Police arrested 29 year old Zachary Kaplan following
a report that he was violating an order of protection.  Kaplan was taken to the Police Station, where
he struggled with officers, he was charged with escape, 2nd degree assault,
resisting arrest obstruction of government administration, criminal contempt,
harassment, criminal mischief, obstruction of breathing and endangering the
welfare of a child.

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a lawsuit
against the electronic cigarette company JUUL Labs for deceptive and misleading
marketing of its e-cigarettes, which contributed to the ongoing youth vaping
epidemic in New York State. The lawsuit alleges that JUUL engaged in deceptive
business practices when marketing and advertising its products, and illegally
sold its products to minors through its website and in third-party retail stores
throughout the state, causing large numbers of New York youth to become
addicted to nicotine. The suit also alleges that JUUL's advertising campaign
misled consumers by misrepresenting its products as a safer alternative to
traditional cigarettes.

The State Labor Department announced that unemployment was
at 4% for October state wide.  Locally,
Chenango County had 3.7%, Delaware County 4% and Otsego County 3.7% in October.

The Broome County District Attorney’s office says
Serina Madden pleaded guilty to 1st-degree manslaughter in Broome County Court,
in connection with the death of her disabled daughter, 10-year-old Belladonna
Loke in 2018 in the town of Colesville.
Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 5, 2020.

The Otsego County Board of Representatives has
approved $230,000 in emergency funding to go towards fixing the leaky roof at
the Otsego County Jail in Cooperstown.
The roof on the 30 year old Facility leaked on October 31st after heavy
downpours, 33 inmates were moved to the Delaware or Albany County Jails, they
will not return until January or February of next year.

Binghamton Police have arrested a 17 year old in
connection with the shooting of an unidentified 19 year old male in the arm, on
Binghamton's Southside Wednesday afternoon.
The 17 year old was charged with attempted murder & criminal
possession of a weapon.

A "Tribute to our Veterans" concert will
be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta This Saturday night;
the show is free to Veterans, according to Foothills Spokesman Bill Youngs:

(Bill Youngs 11-7-19)

Youngs said that
Country Music Star Jerrod Niemann will highlight the show; Tickets are
available at the Foothills Box Office or through Eventbrite.com.  More information is available at 431-2080.

Commerce Chenango will hold an open house today from 4:00 to 6:30 PM in the Community Room at Commerce Chenango in Downtown Norwich. Members are invited to visit with outgoing CEO & President Steve Craig, who is retiring in December.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, Delaware
Opportunities and United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties have launched
their 2019 Toys for Tots Campaign.  Toys
for Tots collection boxes can be found through Delaware County where new,
unwrapped toys can be dropped off and will then be distributed to children in
Delaware County.  Toys can be dropped off
until Friday, December 13th; Chamber staff will then collect the toys and
deliver them to Delaware Opportunities in Hamden for distribution the following
week.  To sign a family up to receive
gifts, call 746-1620, more information is available at delawarecounty.org.

Delaware County Sheriff’s deputies
responded to a 4 vehicle accident in Walton Monday.  19 year old Nathan Plante of Margaretville
was driving on State Route 10 when he veered into opposing lane to avoid
hitting vehicles that had stopped in front of him for construction.   Plante first hit a vehicle in the opposing
lane driven by 76-year-old James Zimmerman of South Carolina, then he hit a
vehicle stopped in his lane driven by 37-year-old Jarred Robinson of Walton,
Robinson's vehicle then hit a vehicle driven by 59-year-old Robin Wagner of
Tonawanda.   Robinson’s passenger Scott
Fitch was airlifted to Wilson Hospital for a spinal injury.  Robinson was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital
for a leg injury and Plante was also taken to Delaware Valley Hospital for
possible internal injuries.  Plante was
issued traffic summonses for “speed not reasonable and prudent” and failure to
keep right, he’ll appear in the town of Walton Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation
protecting patients from excessive out-of-network hospital emergency charges.
The new law requires health insurance companies to ensure that when enrollees
receive care from a non-participating provider, the patient will not incur
greater out-of-pocket costs than they would have incurred from a participating
provider.  The bill also requires that
hospital charges for emergency services are subject to an independent dispute
resolution process that was established by New York's Surprise Medical Bill
law.  The law goes into effect
immediately.

Commerce Chenango will hold their
annual Community Job Fair on November 13th at the Morrisville State College
Norwich Campus from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Commerce Chenango is currently seeking exhibitors for the annual Job
Fair. Last year over 20 businesses were on hand to meet community members
seeking job opportunities.  Space is
limited, registration is available at files.constantcontact.com

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office
announced that 2 individuals were ticketed for passing stopped Sidney school
buses last month.  30 year old Jasmine
Gonzales of Sidney was ticketed for a September 19th incident, and 22 year old
Lacey Speidell, of Unadilla, was ticketed for a September 24th incident.  Sheriff Craig DuMond stated that both
incidents were reported by the school’s transportation director to the school
resource officer, who serves with the sheriff’s office, after cameras on the
buses captured images of the passing vehicles and license plates.

State Police are
searching John Clark of Oneonta for failing to appear in Town of Oneonta Court
earlier this year.   Clark was taken into
custody last May after troopers were dispatched to a domestic dispute at the
Lantern Hill Trailer Park, where he is accused of punching a victim in the
face.   Anyone who has information on
Clark’s whereabouts should call State Police at 432-3211.

The Otsego County District Attorney's
office announced the names of the Juveniles allegedly involved in the murder of
53 year old Kenneth Robinson of Worcester last week.  15 year old Dylan Robinson, the victim’s son,
has been charged with 2nd degree Murder & Robbery, along with 16 year old
Alexander Borgreen & 15 year old Anais Soto, all of Oneonta.  16 year old Alexis Lotterman of Walton was
charged with Robbery.  32 year old
Nicolas Meridy was charged with murder & Robbery in connection with the
Robinson Murder, he faces action in Worcester town court today.

Governor Cuomo today announced he
signed legislation to close New York's double jeopardy legal loophole that
protects individuals who are pardoned by a President from being prosecuted at
the state level for the same offense. This reform gives New York prosecutors
discretion to pursue prosecution of criminal acts where they have jurisdiction.  The statutory change takes effect
immediately.

The New York State Office for the
Aging reminds older New Yorkers that this year’s Medicare open enrollment
period runs now through December 7th.
Medicare health and prescription drug plans can make changes each year
to costs, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks.
More information is available at aging.ny.gov.

The City of Norwich Police Department and the Chenango
County Sheriff’s Office are seeking information on 31 year old Christopher
Lacroce, for allegedly leading Police on a high speed chase last Friday, &
who is also wanted on a warrant for allegedly hitting a pedestrian with a
vehicle September 15th at the intersection of Mitchell and Silver streets in
Norwich.  Lacroce faces charges of
2nd-degree assault, among other charges that are pending following Friday’s
chase.   Anyone with information
regarding Lacroce’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Norwich City Police
Department at 607-334-2424 or the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office at
607-334-2000.

Today, 19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado announced
that $1,239,817 in federal funds were recently awarded to the Friends of the
Upper Delaware River and Trout Unlimited as part of the Delaware Watershed
Conservation Fund. These new funds will allow local organizations to conserve
and restore fish and wildlife habitat, enhance and maintain water quality, and
improve river-based recreational opportunities and public access in the Upper
Delaware Watershed.  The full list of
projects can be found at delgado.house.gov.

NYSEG and AAA New York announced that they are working
together to remind passenger and commercial drivers about the dangers of
distracted driving.  NYSEG has seen an
uptick in the number of passenger vehicles that strike electric poles and
commercial construction vehicles that come into contact with power lines and
other electric equipment.  According to
the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 88% of drivers believe distracted
driving is on the rise, with nearly half of all drivers admitting to recently
talking on hand-held phones and another 35% reporting that they have sent a
text or email while driving.

Governor Cuomo announced that 2 new laws to improve pay
equity policies will go into effect today, which prohibits all employers who do
business in New York State from asking prospective employees about their salary
history and compensation.  The new laws
also expand the definition of "equal pay for equal work."

The Otsego County Chamber's
Small Business Banquet will be held on Thursday, November 21 at The Otesaga
Hotel and Resort in Cooperstown.
Nominations for various awards are being taken currently; the
nominations are requested to the Chamber by this Friday.

State officials, the Division of Homeland Security and the
Office of Fire Prevention and Control will preside over the 22nd Annual New
York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony this morning.   The Ceremony will honor 23 fallen
firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty, at the Empire State
Plaza Convention Center in Albany at 11:00 AM.

The Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will
hold their next meeting this evening in Sidney.
The meeting will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Maiorano building
at 9 Main Street, with Parking & the entrance to the meeting at the rear of
building.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation which amends the criminal
procedure law to clarify that individuals convicted of petty offenses will have
their records sealed by default. Sealed records will not be made available to
any person or public or private agency unless a judge determines otherwise,   the legislation will take effect in 90 days.

State Police responded to Betty Beavers Gas Mart on County
Road 48 in the town of Otego early this morning for a report of a vehicle that
crashed into a concrete wall.   Troopers
reported that an unidentified 27-year-old woman from Unadilla was operating a
2015 Kia at a high rate of speed on State Highway 991J, she traveled through
the intersection of County Road 48, through the parking lot of Betty Beavers
Gas Mart and into the wall.  Troopers
pulled the woman out of the vehicle and life saving measures were performed by
Otego EMS personnel but were unsuccessful.
The body was transported to Lourdes Hospital for an autopsy & the
investigation is continuing.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli spoke to a meeting of the
Delaware County Chamber of Commerce at the Sidney Golf & Country Club this
morning, DiNapoli told WCDO News about the opportunities available for County
Businesses:

(Tom DiNapoli 10-4-19)

Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci said that he was
happy to get the Comptroller to attend this morning’s Chamber Breakfast:

(Ray Pucci 10-4-19)

State Comptroller DiNapoli has served in the post since
2007; he is the state's chief fiscal officer who ensures that state and local
governments use taxpayer money effectively and efficiently.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department is seeking the
public’s assistance in locating 48 year old Roxanne Shipman-Hull of the town of
Hartwick.  She is described as white,
with brown hair, Brown eyes, about 5’6” 115 pounds, she was last seen Sunday
September 29th leaving her residence, telling her boyfriend that she was
leaving & had no future plans.
Deputies said that she has a history of leaving, and a history of self-harm,
she was driving a 2011 Gray colored Honda CRV with license plate number
HZN-9505, she may also be with her brown colored female Labrador
retriever.  Anyone with information is
asked to contact the sheriff’s department at 547-1697.

The Chenango Arts Council will begin their 2019-2020
Performance Season with a free concert on Sunday at 2:00 pm in the Martin W.
Kappel Theater in downtown Norwich. The Catskill Valley Wind Ensemble will be
performing;  and the Chenango Arts
Council will also be announcing the winner of the “Dinner and a Show” raffle,
more information is available at 336-2787

The Annual Grand Finale Cruise In will be held in the Sidney
Industrial Park this Sunday.  The event
is open to many types of antique vehicles,
trophies will be handed out in a variety of categories, the cruise in
will run from 9:00 to 3:00 Sunday.

The 26th Annual “PIT RUN” will be held on Sunday in Oneonta
with 5K & 10 K races.  A variety of
children’s’ activities are also scheduled. More information is available at
PITRUN.ORG. All runners may pick up their race packets and bib numbers on race
day, Sunday morning from 8:00 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. at the Registration Tent in
Neahwa Park, Oneonta.

The Jericho Arts Council
announced the return performance of the Corvettes Doo-Wop Revue, at the
Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre Saturday night at 7:00 PM.  Tickets are available at the box office and
can be reserved at 288-3882.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer visited Sidney yesterday
afternoon, to announce that he is looking to get funding for an emergency
system to alert residence of potential floods, Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak
explains:

(Andy Matviak 10-4-19)

Schumer is looking to acquire the $150,000 Grant  from the Appalachian Regional Commission, for
a system that would be more reliable than any existing broadband systems, which
would fail to work in areas of the region that has limited or no broadband
service.

Commerce Chenango is celebrating Manufacturing Week, they
have named an Oxford Business as the Manufacturer of the day today, Kerri Green
of Commerce Chenango explains:

(Kerri Green 10-4-19)

Manufacturing makes up about 26% of the County's non-farm
jobs, well above the state average of only 4.6%.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce announced their 1st Fall
Festival to be tomorrow, Chamber President Teri Schunk comments:

(Teri Schunk 10-4-19)

Schunk said that the event will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
along Main & Division Streets in Downtown Sidney, followed by a Tom &
Doug Cruise in at 3:00 PM.

The Ross Park Zoo Invites area children to “Howloween at the Zoo” October 5th, 6th, 12th, and 13th. Admission is $6 for members and $10 for non-members, tickets available at the door. Children 2 and under are free. Hours are 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, gates close at 4:00 pm. For more information and a list of special activities, visit rossparkzoo.com or call 724-5461.

The
Town of Guilford board will hold a meeting tonight, following Tuesday’s action
by the Chenango County planning Department’s 239 Subcommittee regarding the
town’s Renewable Energy Law, Town Supervisor George Senek comments:

(George
Senek 8-14-19)

Tonight’s
board meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Town Hall on Marble Road.

Registrations
are being accepted for the 26th Annual Pit Run in Oneonta on Sunday October
6th.  Registration is available at pitrun.org;
the run is in memory of State Police Investigator Rick Parisian, who died while
trying to stop an armed robbery in an Oneonta Supermarket in 1994.  Money raised goes to a scholarship fund named
after Parisian.

The
Roxbury Arts Group will be presenting a series of Information Sessions
throughout Delaware County to inform area artists, organizations, and residents
about the funding opportunities available through the Decentralization Grant
Program, Spokesperson Samantha Nick comments:

(Samantha
Nick 8-14-19)

Nick
said that the Sidney Session will be held on August 21st at 10:00 AM at the
Sidney Memorial Public Library, more information is available at 326-7908.

19th
District Congressman Antonio Delgado announced that members of his staff will
be available for constituents are Farmers Markets around the district this
summer.  The full list of Farmer's
markets can be found at delgado.house.gov.

New
Yorkers who were molested or sexually abused as children will get their day in
court, starting today with the ability to e-file claims.  Hundreds of lawyers representing victims
starting filing early this morning, with about 200 child sexual abuse lawsuits
filed by 6:00 AM, the number had almost doubled by 12:00 Noon.   The window to file was created by the state
Legislature’s adoption in January of the Child Victims Act, which makes it
easier for accusers to seek criminal and civil sanction of their abusers.

State
Police at Binghamton responded to a 1-car motor vehicle accident on State Route
7 in the town of Colesville Tuesday.  The
investigation revealed that the vehicle operated by 29-year-old Ashley
Wolfanger of Binghamton, exited the roadway and struck at tree, killing
32-year-old passenger Lance Weiss of Harpursville.  Weiss was pronounced deceased on the scene
and Wolfanger was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital where she is listed
in stable condition.   The investigation
is on-going.

The
Otsego County Chamber to host Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment
Training today, at Northern Eagle Beverages at 41 Browne Street in
Oneonta.  New York State mandates ALL
employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train
ALL employees on sexual harassment prevention.
Pinnacle Human Resources, LLC will conduct the training from 1:00PM to
3:00PM

With the extreme temperatures expected through the weekend,
state & local officials are reminding area residents to try to find air
conditioned places during the peak hours, avoid strenuous activities &
rigorous exercising outdoors, Wear light clothing, Check on family members and
neighbors, Drink plenty of water, Watch out for heat cramps, heat exhaustion,
and heat stroke.  With regards to pets,
or children, do not leave them in a closed car.

21 year old Brandon Clark of Cicero was released from a
Utica Area Hospital & has officially been charged with 2nd degree murder,
for the death of 17 year old Bianca Devins of Utica last weekend.  Clark was remanded to the Oneida County Jail,
he is accused of Killing Devins, posting pictures of her body on 4chan & Discord
social media sites, discord followers & Clark himself notified police,
police found Clark stabbing himself in the neck.  Clark faces court action in Utica City Court
next week, Devin’s funeral mass is being held a church in Utica this afternoon.

Delaware County continues to sell it recyclable at about the
same rate as it has over the last several years, County Solid Waste Coordinator
Tyson Robb explains:

(Tyson Robb 7-19-19)

Robb said that China has restricted the importing of
recyclables there, Delaware county remains somewhat unaffected by that, as
volume out remains the same, however revenue from the recyclables has suffered
a significant decline.  Delaware County
Residents are still urged to recycle as they have been in the recent past.

The Otsego County Chamber of
Commerce announced that there 33rd Annual Golf Classic will be held on August
8th, at the Oneonta Country Club.
Registrations can be accessed at otsegocc.com.

The 2019 edition of National Baseball Hall of Fame Weekend
starts today, with the annual Induction Ceremony on Sunday, July 21 at 1:30
PM.  This year’s inductees are the late
Roy Halladay, plus Edgar Martinez, Mike Mussina, Mariano Rivera, Harold Baines
and Lee Smith at the Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown.   The complete schedule of events is available
at baseballhall.org/hofw.

The Chenango County Republican Committee's annual
fundraising Lobster fest will be held Sunday at the Canasawacta Country Club in
Norwich.  The event raises funds for
Republican running for office in the Chenango County region; more information
is available at 334-7693 or 226-3271.

The Bainbridge Old Time Band will have their next concert
tonight at 7:00 PM.  The concert will be
held in the Bainbridge Village Green Park, in case of inclement weather, the
concert will be moved indoors to the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater.

Today & Tomorrow Morning are the last Opportunities to
take advantage of free Medical, Dental, Optical or Veterinary Services by
military medical personnel, at the Greater Chenango Cares IRT Event at the
Norwich High School.  More information is
available at the Greater Chenango Cares Facebook Page.

Ed Curley of Sidney continues his bicycle trek across
America to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes research Foundation, the
afternoon Ed was in San Antonio Texas, with the final destination of St.
Augustine Florida, he gave WCDO News an update on his progress:

(Ed Curley 7-15-19)

Curley said that he hopes to raise about $10,000 with this effort;
donations can be made the JDRF.org.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is asking its members
to complete their annual survey. All answers by respondents will remain confidential,
the answers will help the Chamber in their efforts to ensure that the services
of the Chamber meet the needs of businesses.
The Survey link can be found at cxvibe.typeform.com and need to be
completed by July 26th.

The Chenango County Planning Department, working in
conjunction with Opportunities for Chenango, is slated for a $500,000 Community
Block Grant through the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal.
Money will be allocated to income-eligible homeowners in need of making vital
home improvements.  The plan would need
to be approved by the Chenango County Board of Supervisors before the money
could be made available to homeowners.

This year's Utica Boilermaker race was delayed for about 15
minutes Sunday, not because of any weather related issues, but because of a
homicide near the starting line.  One
woman was pronounced dead at the scene &
man was taken to an area hospital with lacerations, that investigation
is ongoing.

The Delaware County Chamber of
Commerce will honor businesses at their 2019 Annual Business Awards ceremony on
Wednesday at 6:00 PM.  The Chamber announced
today that the event has been moved to the Meredith Inn at 4206 Turnpike
Road,  Delhi, due to the likelihood of
Showers & Thunderstorms.  The
Honorees include the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, as the 2019
Business of the Year, Stagecoach Run Art Festival, headquartered in Treadwell
and Franklin, and Table to Farm Tours of Roxbury, will receive the 2019 Tourism
Award.  More information is available at delawarecounty.org.

1 person was injured in a fire Friday at the Mayrose
Apartments on Lewis Avenue in Oneonta.
The fire started in apartment 206, the occupant was taken to fox
Hospital for an undisclosed injury, and 1 other person in another apartment was
displaced due to smoke & water damage.
The investigation is continuing.

Efforts & fundraisers continued Saturday in Bainbridge
for Sidney resident Heather Bucalos, who is fighting cancer again.  Christine Oliver is one of the people who is
helping with the fundraisers for Heather:

(Christine Oliver 7-15-19)

KC Blass is also assisting with the fundraising efforts; she
has helped Heather with her fundraisers for others in recent years:

(KC Blass 7-15-19)

Heather told WCDO News about her cancer, and how her friends
are making it easier to cope with what is ahead:

(Heather Bucalos 7-15-19)

The Bainbridge Glow Run on Heather's behalf will be held at
General Clinton Park in Bainbridge on September 14th, more information is
available at bainbridgeglowrun.com.

Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care is hosting a Caregiver Support Group at The AO Fox Hospital Tri-Town Campus in Sidney starting today.  The group will meet 6 times to provide information and support for those who are taking care of seriously ill family members or friends.  Caregivers will have an opportunity to identify concerns, discuss feelings, receive support from others, and locate community resources which may be helpful for their unique situations.  More information is available at 432-5525.

The Greater Chenango Cares event
will be held July 11th through July 20th at the Norwich High School.  Elizabeth Monaco of Chenango United Way is
helping to put this event together & volunteers are needed to assist the
military medical technicians at this event:

(Elizabeth Monaco 6-3-19)

Monaco said people can call the
Chenango United Way at 334-8815 for additional information.

The State Department of Labor
today released preliminary local unemployment rates for May.   The Statewide Unemployment rate was an even
4% in May, Locally, Chenango County had 3.7% unemployment, Delaware County had
4% & Otsego County had 3.4%.

A Public Meeting on new Upper
Delaware River Policies will be held in Hancock on July 10th.  Representatives from the Delaware River Basin
Commission, State DEC, The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the DRBC
Subcommittee on Ecological Flows (SEF) will discuss new approaches to control
high water temperatures and reduce erratic water releases in the Upper Delaware
River tail waters.  The meeting on July
10th will begin at 10:30 AM until 12:00 Noon at the Friends of the Upper
Delaware River office at 158 East Front Street, Hancock,  RSVP’s are requested to info@fudr.org

Catskill Area Hospice and
Palliative Care is hosting a Caregiver Support Group at Tri-Town Regional
Hospital in Sidney beginning Monday, July 15th.
The group will meet 6 times to provide information and support for those
who are taking care of seriously ill family members or friends.  Caregivers will have an opportunity to
identify concerns, discuss feelings, receive support from others, and locate
community resources which may be helpful for their unique situations.  There is no cost, but registration is
required at 432-5525.

Republican primary Results have been released; Town of
Sidney Clerk Primary was won by Sheila Paul over Lisa French 134 - 112. The
Broome County District Attorney Republican Primary was won by Paul Battisti by
a slim margin over Michael Korchak, in the Republican Primary for Norwich Mayor,
Shawn Sastri handily defeats incumbent
mayor Christine Carnrike  & North
Norwich Town Supervisor between Timothy Brown & Robert Wansor ended as a
tie, 51 votes each. The Republican primary for Town of Hancock Highway Superintendent
was won by Neil Emerich, Democratic Party Primaries for the Oneonta Common
Council, were won by Mark Davies in Oneonta’s 2nd ward & Katie Lapari Shue
won in the 4th Ward.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department executed a no knock
search warrant at 121 Ashcraft Road in the Town of Plymouth Tuesday. The search
warrant stemmed from an investigation involving the distribution of Crystal
Methamphetamine, Norwich Police assisted with the investigation and execution
of the search warrant.  The Narcotics
Division arrested 47 year old William Johnson and 35 year old Kelli Johnson for
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Use of Drug
Paraphernalia, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The Sheriff’s Office
recovered Crystal Methamphetamine, packaging material, digital scales, cash,
and several firearms. The investigation remains ongoing.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will honor local
businesses at their annual awards ceremony at the Garden Party at Birdsong Farm
in Delhi today.  The ceremony will be
held at 5:30 PM at 38480 State Highway 10 in Delhi, The Delhi Rehabilitation
& Nursing Center will be honored as the Business of the Year.    More information is available at
delawarecounty.org or call 746-2281

Delaware County Public Health will be holding a free Car
Seat Safety Event at Delaware Opportunities State Highway 10 Hamden, from 10:00
AM to 1:00 PM.  Parents and caregivers
can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety
seat technicians    more information is
available at 832-5200.

The Annual Sherburne Pageant of Bands will be held this
weekend, at the Sherburne High School.
Pageant competitions will be held tonight & tomorrow, the Parade
will begin Saturday at 1:00 PM on Route 12 in downtown Sherburne.

This weekend is the MX Rewind Weekend at the Unadilla Valley
Sports Center on State Route 8, in New Berlin.
MX Rewind is a full weekend of vintage racing and has become the largest
vintage event of its kind in the nation.
Racing begins on Friday with AHRMA cross-country racing and moves into
motocross racing on Saturday and Sunday. More information is available at
965-8450 or unadillamx.com.

Greater Chenango Cares is once again coming to Norwich to
provide services for families in need. Greater Chenango Cares is a Department
of Defense Innovative Readiness Training event. It gives joint training
opportunities to reservists to increase their deployment readiness while also
providing free medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the
community.  This year's Chenango Cares
will be held at Norwich High School from July 11th through the 20th.   The Chenango United Way is looking for
volunteers for the event; those interested can call 334-8815.

Norwich city officials are monitoring the situation at 33
Mitchell Street, after part of a wall at the building fell to the ground
Wednesday.  All tenants were evacuated
& city officials blocked off the intersection of Mitchell & State Street
while they try to determine of the 1855 building can be safely repaired, or
needs to be razed.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee had to name 8 champions
yesterday, after the 8 winners continued to spell words correctly round after
round after round.  Organizers said that
they ran out of difficult words to give to the last 8, Scripps officials gave
up and declared them all co-champions, each will win the $50,000 grand
prize.  Melodie Loya of Bainbridge made
it to the final day for the 3rd straight year, before being stumped during an
afternoon round Thursday.

Governor Cuomo today announced
the application window is now open for round one of the Grow-NY food and
agriculture competition. The competition is focused on growing an enduring food
and agriculture innovation cluster in New York's Finger Lakes, Central New York
and Southern Tier regions. The competition will run for 3 & will offer a
total of $3 million in funding for each round to innovative high-growth
start-ups that are focused on the food and agriculture industry.   More information is available at grow-ny.com.

Today is World No Tobacco Day, where people are trying to
get the word out about the dangers of Tobacco use & the growing
Concern  of children getting addicted to
Nicotine through fruit flavored E-Cigarettes Like Juul.  Linda Wegner of Advancing Tobacco free
Communities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties said that they are
hoping the state & the Federal Government do something soon:

(Linda Wegner 5-31-19)

Currently, the state wide rate of smoking is about 14%, but
Delaware County is much higher at 24%, there has also been a 160% increase in
E-Cigarette usage among teens in the last 2 years, each Juul cartridge contains
the same amount of nicotine as an entire pack of traditional cigarettes.

A.O. Fox Hospital is offering a program this summer for
individuals interested in becoming junior volunteers, to offer a helping hand
to hospitalized patients, nursing home residents, and staff in a multitude of
capacities.  Training for accepted
applicants is scheduled for Monday, July 1st
from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 PM in Fox Hospital’s Education Department.  Applicants must be at least 14 years of age
& applications are available in the guidance offices of area high
schools,  all applications are due by
June 18th . More Information is available at 431-5042.

Governor Cuomo today announced that recreational marijuana
will not be passed as part of this year's State Budget, which is due on April
1st.   The Governor said that there is
still a chance for it to pass separately by the legislature before their
session ends in June.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 24 year old
Mohammed Rahman of Queens for Criminal Possession of Marihuana, Criminal
Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Driving
While ability impaired by drugs, speeding & other traffic violations.  Rahman was stopped on State Highway 268 in
the Town of Hancock, he was found to be in possession of more than 10 pounds of
Marihuana.  Rahman was arraigned at
Hancock Village Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $15,000
cash bail pending future court action at a later date.

A Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy on Route 79 observed a
vehicle traveling off the road & into a ditch, the vehicle continued
driving down the ditch for approximately 600 feet before stopping. The Deputy
made contact with Kristen Oropallo of Susquehanna Pennsylvania, the
investigation led to Oropallo being charged with DWI; also her driving
privileges in New York State had been suspended. Oropallo was transported to
the Broome County Sheriff’s Office for further processing where she refused to
submit to a Breath test, she was issued several tickets to return to the Town
of Windsor Court at a later date.

Oneonta Finance Director Meg Hungerford will resign from
that position at the end of the month.
Hungerford has accepted a position with the Walton Central School
district.   No interim director has been
appointed by the city; they will start a search for a replacement shortly.

The State Department of Transportation today announced that
preliminary work has begun on a $1.1 million project to replace a culvert
underneath Dilly Road in the Town of Colesville. The new culvert will allow a
stream to more efficiently flow underneath the road, reducing the possibility
of erosion and enhancing safety for motorists traveling to and from nearby
State Route 7.  While preliminary site
work, including tree removal, has begun, the bulk of construction will not take
place until the summer to minimize disruptions to school bus routes and comply
with DEC stream work restrictions. Traffic will be detoured on to Martin Hill
Road during construction, which is expected to be substantially complete by
September.

A.O. Fox Hospital has prioritized combatting hunger as a
population health improvement initiative in 2019. The hospital, in
collaboration with several agencies, is working to reduce local food insecurity
with hunger screenings and goals of establishing a new food pantry for
employees and a patient food pharmacy while continuing to supplement other area
food pantries. A recent assessment identified hunger in Otsego County as a
major community health concern Fox is working with organizations like Catholic
Charities, The Salvation Army, Friends of Recovery – Delaware & Otsego
Counties, Opportunities for Otsego, and many others.

Governor Cuomo’s job approval
rating has improved to 50% for the first time since last May, according to
polls released this week.   A Quinnipiac
Survey released today said that 50% percent of voters approve of the job Cuomo
is doing as governor, with 41% registering disapproval.  About 2/3rds of those polled believe that
Cuomo should also continue to try to convince Amazon to revisit their plans to
open a facility in Queens & add 25,000 jobs.

Village voting took place & there were a few races to
decide, in Sidney, Andy Matviak was re-elected as Mayor over Jeffrey Stefanek
& Elected to the Village board were Ray Baker & Barry MacPherson.  In Walton, Stephen Condon won the election
for a two-year mayor seat over incumbent Ed Snow.  In Gilbertsville, the new Mayor is Mark
Muller who defeated incumbent Ken Nolan; Trustees that won are Glenn Foster
& Randolph Palada,  in Afton, the 2
village board seats were won by DeAnna Lawrence & Sally Muller.

58 year old Julie Clark of Coventry pleaded guilty to 3rd
degree Grand Larceny for stealing Thousands of dollars from the Coventry Fire
Department while serving as treasurer.
Clark was sentenced to a 3 year conditional discharge & was ordered
to pay $20,000 in restitution.

For the third year in a row, 13
Year old Melodie Loya of Bainbridge won the regional Scripps National Spelling
Bee in Oneonta, & she will once again be heading to Washington DC, and a
fundraiser has begun to help meet expenses, DCMO BOCES spelling bee coordinator
Martha Ryan explains:

(Martha Ryan 3-13-19)

Loya placed 18th and 25th in her
two previous years of national competition, and made it to the final 41 of last
year’s 516 spellers.

33 year old Kevin Wilcox of
Harpursville pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular assault and driving
while impaired by drugs, at his arraignment Tuesday.  Wilcox was arrested following the
investigation into Monday afternoon's incident in Binghamton, where he
allegedly drove onto the sidewalk on Beethoven Street and struck 17-year-old
Harper Stantz and 19-year-old Britney Laserinko.   Both were taken to Wilson Hospital with a
variety of serious injuries, including internal injuries & fractures.  Wilcox is being held in the Broome County
Jail pending future court action.

18 year old Alec Zarkower's
death has been ruled as a suicide, following an autopsy performed Tuesday.  Zarkower's body was found in his dorm room at
SUNY Delhi Monday morning, SUNY Delhi officials said that counselors are available
for students in need.  Zarkower was a
freshman at SUNY Delhi, and was originally from Cortlandt Manor in Westchester County.

The Trial of Heather Franklin will begin on Aprils 1st in Chenango County Court, for the murder of her special needs son Jeffrey in 2017.  Heather & Ernest Franklin were accused of killing the teenager and setting fire to the family home in the town of Guilford, after they had watched "Manchester by the Sea" which contained a similar plot.  Ernest Franklin was convicted on Murder 7 Arson charges last week; he will be sentenced on May 3rd.

Last year was the deadliest for
pedestrians in decades, according to a new report from the Governors Highway
Safety Association.    More than 6,200
pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2018, which was a
continuation of an upward trend over the last 10 years; it was the highest number
since 1990.  unsafe driving behaviors
like speeding or distracted or drowsy driving; alcohol consumption and
smartphone use by both drivers and pedestrians; and a rise in the number of
larger SUVs,

Governor Cuomo today announced
that he will not sign a state budget without a permanent 2% property tax cap,
and he also wants to lower the state tax rate again:

(Cuomo 3-13-19)

Cuomo has been in disagreement
with some of the Democrat members of the legislature, who do not want the tax
cap to become permanent.

The CDC announced that Flu
activity remains high across the nation, and there's a second wave of severe
infections striking some states.  Over
26.3 million flu illnesses, 12.4 million medical visits and 347,000 flu
hospitalizations were reported nationwide between October 1st & March 2,
with 64 children dying from the flu during that time.  The H1N1 virus strain has dominated this
season, but H3N2 viruses have been recirculating in the Southeast,  the CDC still continues to recommend getting
a flu shot for those who have not, even though it is late in the season.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 39 year old
Kenneth Schuler of Boca Raton, Florida on charges of felony DWI and felony
aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, following an investigation
into a property damage motor vehicle accident on Lower Third Brook Road in the
Town of Walton. Schuler was additionally charged with speed not reasonable and
prudent, unlicensed operator, refusal to take a breath screening test and
operating a motor vehicle without a required ignition interlock device. Schuler
was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail
pending future court action.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39 year old
LeAnne Taggart of Franklin, for possession of a Dangerous Dog in Violation of
the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law.
The arrest is a result of an investigation into a report of an
aggressive dog in the Town of Sidney. Taggart is scheduled to appear at Sidney
Town Court at a later date to answer the charge.

Jody Zakrevsky, who is the CEO of Otsego Now, will be
holding a series of "town hall" meetings throughout Otsego County in
the coming weeks. The first of these meetings will be held today at Hartwick
College in the Shineman Chapel from 5:30pm - 7:00pm. The second one will be
held on Thursday, at Oneonta Town Hall from 5:00pm - 6:30pm Topics to be
discussed range from grant opportunities available under the next consolidated
funding application process, economic and community development interests, and
energy. Questions and comments from the public are welcomed and encouraged.

Cornell Cooperative Extension will host a Farmers’ Market
Community Meeting at their Hamden office this morning from 9:30-11:30 am.  The goal of this meeting is to create and/or
strengthen relationships among individuals and groups that support farmers’
markets in Delaware County.  More
information is available at 865-6531 or ccedelaware.org.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrests of 34 year old Corey Weldman & 22 year old Cheyenne Moore following the execution of a search warrant at 93 East Main Street in Norwich. Police seized crystal meth, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, suboxone, a loaded handgun and more than $35,000 in cash. Weldman and Moore were charged with Criminal possession of a controlled substance & Criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, more charges are pending.

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down Sealed Indictments Thursday afternoon, relating to 3 separate drug trafficking investigations in Grand Gorge, Roxbury and Delhi. Arrested were Ramar Hassell & Valerie Alexander of Delhi, for allegedly selling Heroin in the Village of Delhi, also William Effner of Delhi was indicted for possession of packaged heroin plus marijuana, a scale and drug packaging paraphernalia. Deputies also arrested Lorelei Hayden of Grand Gorge for allegedly selling Oxycodone and Hydrocodone, and Michael Johnson of Roxbury for allegedly selling Suboxone, all 5 were arraigned in Delaware County Court Friday, and they were all remanded to the Delaware County Jail pending future court action.

Voters in the Unadilla Valley School District approved of the 10 million dollar capital improvement project last week. The project calls for various improvements to school buildings & the athletic field, with the work covered by a combination of State Aid & the district's Capital Reserve Fund.

State Police & Local law Enforcement agencies or participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

The Government Justice Center filed a lawsuit Friday challenging the legality of a panel's vote last week to raise New York State Lawmakers' pay for the first time in 20 years. The group claims pay raises must be voted on by the state Senate and Assembly themselves. The 63% proposed increase will be phased in over 3 years, from $79,500 a year to $130,000. Some Lawmakers oppose the plan because it would limit how much money they could make outside of their salary as lawmakers.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and the Delaware County business community joined forces to participate in the 2018 Toys for Tots campaign. 420 toys, 37 books and 235 stocking stuffers were collected over a 3 week period; the toys were delivered to Delaware Opportunities in Hamden on Friday and will be distributed to Delaware County families this week in time for Christmas.

Congressman Elect Anthony Brindisi is hosting ‘Thank You Celebrations' today, to show appreciation to supporters and volunteers of his campaign. Thank-you events have also been held in Binghamton, Cortland, and Utica. The Congressman-Elect will be present at a party this afternoon & this evening at the Bohemian Moon at 103 East Main Street in Norwich.

State Troopers closed down Chenango County Road 25 in the town of Columbus following a fatal car crash. State Police responded to a head-on collision at approximately 1:34 AM Saturday, where a 27-year-old male from Sherburne, crossed into oncoming traffic, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, a 26-year-old female of Edmeston sustained minor injuries; she was transported to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. The operator of the 2nd vehicle, a 46-year-old female of Schuyler Lake was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center, after she sustained severe injuries. Troop C’s Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the crash.

Governor Cuomo today announced six projects are being funded under the Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative in Oneonta. The six programs include Communication Across Barriers, Opportunities for Otsego, CDO Workforce, the Oneonta School District, Family Planning of South Central New York, & the Otsego County Drug Court. The money is part of a broader $25 million effort to target pockets of poverty around the state.

State Police arrested 2 people after a traffic stop on I-88 in Worcester. A trooper observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and initiated a traffic stop. After an investigation both the operator and passenger were arrested after drugs and paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. 30 year old Zachary Lushkevich of Laurens was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, 26 year old Katarina Lushkevich of Laurens was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, they were released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Worcester Court on October 30th.

Tajiri the giraffe, who was born at Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, will not be going to be heading to a new wildlife facility in North Carolina. Animal Adventure officials announced on Saturday that "requirements and deadlines were not satisfied" on time for Tajiri's transfer, instead, they announced that Construction starts today on a new building to house Tajiri at Animal Adventure, the project is expected to be completed in 3 to 4 weeks.

Author Gray Basnight of Bethel New York has published his 3rd book, “Flight Of The Fox” a mystery thriller that takes place in Upstate New York, & is tied in to the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock Music & Arts festival in Bethel in 1969. Basnight told WCDO about his novel:

(Gray Basnight 10-22-18)

Basnight will appear at the Huntington Memorial Library on Chestnut Street in Oneonta this Saturday starting at 11:30 AM for a book signing. The book is Published by Down & Out Books.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 47 year old Eric Palmatier of Harpersfield for cruelty to animals & failure to provide proper food and sustenance. Deputies allege that Palmatier failed to provide food, water, shelter and veterinary care for a dog; he was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear at the Harpersfield Town Court at a later date.

The Sidney Village Police department is investigating a 1 Vehicle Crash into the China Buffet Building at about 12:19 PM this afternoon. Police reported that a Chrysler PT Cruiser was traveling westbound in the McDonald's Parking Lot, when the unidentified Driver drove up the embankment & went into the exterior wall of the Restaurant, causing a hole in the wall. The accident is still under investigation.

Several Otsego County Fire companies responded to a fire at 4703 Route 28 in Hartwick Seminary Sunday. The fire was reported at 3:30 a.m. Sunday, 7 people were left homless, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

State Police arrested 29 year old Kody Weidman of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Failure to Use an Interlock Device. Troopers observed Weidman commit a traffic violation while at State Route 20 and State Route 8, he attempted to elude troopers by turning into a driveway and turning off his headlights, troopers uncovered several grams of cocaine. Weidman was arrested and released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Bridgewater Court on November 5th.

State Police arrested 38 year old David Miller of Pitcher for 4 counts of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property. Troopers were advised on September 2, 2018 that Miller was in possession of several stolen road signs. Miller was arrested & was released on an appearance ticket returnable to the town of Pitcher Court on November 6th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Michelle Page of Colesville for 3 counts of Menacing & 27 year old Matthew Meade of Windsor, NY arrested for Reckless Endangerment, Troopers were dispatched to a residence on Circle Drive in Colesville for a reported disturbance. After an investigation, it was determined that Page menaced Meade and other people with a shotgun after he drove to her residence and recklessly drove on her lawn, almost striking her vehicle. Page was arraigned in the town of Colesville Court and released on her own recognizance. Meade was arraigned in the town of Kirkwood and also released on his own recognizance.

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down several Sealed Indictments Thursday relating to 3 separate narcotics trafficking investigations conducted in the Sidney and Hancock areas by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division.   Arrested were 36 year old Angela Huggins of Sidney, 36 year old Mark Tubbs of Sidney & 30 year old Lisa Hayslip of Oneonta for selling illegal drugs in Sidney.  4 people from Fish’s Eddy were charged, 23 year old Samantha Wren, 33 year old William Weyrauch, 29 year old Seth Appley & 29 year old Lacey Benson for allegedly selling a variety of illegal drugs in Fishes Eddy, Benson faces an additional charge of Promoting Prison Contraband, for allegedly introducing secreted hypodermic instruments into the Delaware County Correctional Facility following her arrest.  All were arraigned and were remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail pending further court action.

State Police at Norwich are looking for the public’s help in locating a 43-year-old woman from Greene who is in need of medication. Arzou Hami was last seen on Sunday, October 7th exiting a vehicle near State Highway 369 in Port Crane. Hami has also identified herself as Michelle Girard. She was last seen wearing white capris, slip-on shoes, a dark shirt and carrying two suitcases, she is white, approximately 5’7, 165 pounds with short brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at 561-7400.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and the City of Norwich Police Department conducted a traffic stop on 29 year old Logan Dalrymple of Sherburne, whose vehicle and person were subject to a search warrant. Officers seized methamphetamine packaged for sale and Suboxone strips. Dalrymple was charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a controlled substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence and Promoting Prison Contraband, she was arraigned in the City of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $25,000 cash bail, the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected.

Governor Cuomo today announced $45 million in state grant funding has been awarded to 57 counties and New York City for emergency communications. This funding enables local governments to expand their emergency response capabilities to enhance public safety operations. Locally, Chenango County receives $534,000, Delaware County $497,000 & Otsego County $796,000.

The Otsego County Office fore the Aging & the Foxcare Center in Oneonta are teaming up for their Annual Info Fair from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Gabrielle Argo of Foxcare explains:

(Gabby Argo 10-12-18)

More information is available at 547-4232.

The Raymond Corporation hosted more than 250 high school students today, as part of their National Manufacturing Day commemoration. Students from more than 20 area schools learned about career opportunities within the science, technology, engineering and math fields, Raymond CEO Mike Field commented about this event:

(Mike Field 10-12-18)

Raymond Corporation has experienced continued growth over the last 7 years, they have held this event for students for the last 4 years now, and more information is available at raymondcorp.com or at the Raymond Facebook page.

Youth across New York State have declared tomorrow, October 13 as the 2nd annual “Seen Enough Tobacco Day” to protect young people from the billions of dollars of tobacco promotions in places where adolescents and young adults can see and be influenced by them. Reality Check youth in Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie Counties are posting lawn signs and banners with tobacco-free messages to educate the public. Community members are encouraged to visit SeenEnoughTobacco.org and sign the online petition.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22-year-old Dane Edwards of Deposit on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Village of Deposit Court for 3rd degree Assault, involving an incident earlier this year in Deposit. Edwards was arraigned and was released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear at the Village of Deposit Court at a later date to answer the charges.

The Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre Presents Memories of Patsy Cline tonight, Jericho Arts Council spokesman Phil Wade explains:

(Phil Wade 10-12-18)

Tonight's show begins at 7:00 pm, tickets are available at the door, and they can also be reserved by phone 288-3882.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group announced a fundraising event coming up this weekend. The annual Crock-pot Cook-off and Lucky Day Auction will be held on Sunday, beginning at 12:00 noon at the Sidney Center Fire Hall.

State Police at Deposit are investigating a fatal industrial accident at the loading dock at the Courier Printing Corporation in Deposit. The deceased has been identified as 66 year old William Sethmann of Deposit, who was working as an independent contractor and handyman at Courier; he was located crushed underneath a hydraulic loading dock. The investigation revealed that Sethmann was working on the lift when it failed sometime between Monday afternoon and Wednesday morning. There are no signs of foul play.

19-year-old Alexander Wetzel was reported missing Tuesday, the SUNY Broome student was found by Binghamton Police Wednesday, SUNY Broome officials announced their condolences to Wetzel's family on their website today. Grief Counselors are available for students & staff following the announcement of Wetzel's death. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Fire Fighters from Several Area Companies responded to the report of 2 trailers on fire at the Sidney Unadilla Trailer Park at 754 State Route 7, near the State Police Troop C Headquarters today. The fire was reported at around 1:00 PM, with occupants escaping the fire, fire fighters from Sidney, Wells Bridge, Sidney center, Bainbridge & Franklin responding. WCDO News will have further details as they become available.

State Police arrested 37 year old Gary Sullivan Jr. of Hancock for DWI, after a trooper was dispatched to a 1 car accident on State Route 17 in Kirkwood. The trooper located Sullivan’s vehicle on its side and Sullivan had with minor injuries. Sullivan was arrested & was released on appearance tickets to town of Kirkwood Court on October 16th.

The Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting local crafters, vendors and organizations to join their first ever Small Business Saturday Holiday Shop taking place on Small Business Saturday, November 24th from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 pm at the Afton Central School. More information is available at 208-4064.

The Peanuts gang will be coming to The Forum, Binghamton, on November 20th at 6:00pm for A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage. Tickets are on sale Monday, October 8th at 10:00am at the arena box office, Ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 745-3000. The Emmy and Peabody award-winning story by Charles Schulz originally aired on television over 50 years ago.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department investigated a robbery Tuesday Night on Royal Avenue in the Town of Norwich, after a male victim went to Chenango Memorial Hospital with missing teeth, head lacerations and additional trauma. The investigation revealed that the victim was lured to the Royal Avenue address by 19 year old Jade Orlando, who requested marihuana to be delivered to her, Brenden Gager, Hunter Speenburgh and Landon Cummings were hiding nearby, they allegedly assaulted and robbed the victim. All 4 were arrested & were charged with Robbery & Assault; they were arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility. The City of Norwich Police Department assisted with the investigation. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are expected.

Two men were arrested and 100 pounds of marijuana were seized after the Otsego County Sheriff’s Department raided elaborate growing operations in Morris and New Lisbon. 47 year old Christian Balmaceda of Morris and 49 year old Joseph Ali of New Lisbon were arrested, Balmaceda was charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana, Unlawful Growing of Cannabis, and 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Ali was charged with Criminal Possession of Marijuana, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Unlawfully Growing of Cannabis, they were remanded to the Otsego County Jail pending future court action.

Hartwick College’s True Blue Weekend 2018 is scheduled to start today with more than 50 regional, national, and international employers offering students work opportunities at Hartwick College’s Internship & Career Expo. The event will be held from 1:00 to 3:30 PM in Lambros Arena, on the Hartwick College campus, more information is available at hartwick.edu/EXPO or by calling 431-4249.

Free 5-gallon pails of remixed exterior latex paint are still available to non-profit agencies and county residents on a first come, first served basis. The paint was collected as part of the county’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, it was re-mixed and packaged for distribution by Golden Artist Colors of New Berlin. Pails of beige/tan paint are still available. All other colors have been distributed. For more information or to place an order for paint, please call the Otsego County Planning Department at 547-4225.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting Today, in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

Free 5-gallon pails of remixed exterior latex paint are available to non-profit agencies and Otsego County residents free of charge on a first come first serve basis. The
paint was collected as part of the county’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day held this past September. Paint collected during the event was re-mixed
and packaged for distribution through the generosity of Golden Artist Colors, Inc. of New Berlin. To place an order or to get more information, call the Otsego County
Planning Department at 547-4225.

The Bainbridge Glow Run 5K & 1 Mile Lightning Bug dash will be held on September 29th at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, The event is a fundraiser for a
Bainbridge native fighting cancer, according to organizer Heather Bucalos of Sidney, who is also a cancer survivor, she told WCDO News that there are a lot of costs to
deal with for cancer patients:

(Heather Bucalos 9-20-18)

Registration for the event is available at Runsignup.com/Race/NY/Bainbridge/GlowFundraiser

Hartwick College’s True Blue Weekend 2018 is scheduled to start on October 4th this year, with more than 50 regional, national, and international employers offering
students work opportunities at Hartwick College’s Internship & Career Expo. The event will be held Thursday, October 4, from 1:00 to 3:30 PM in Lambros Arena, on the
Hartwick College campus, more information is available at hartwick.edu/EXPO or by calling 431-4249.

New York state’s farms generated $4.8 billion in revenue in 2017, with 15 agricultural products ranked in the top 5 nationwide, according to a report released today by
State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. New York has more than 35,000 farms covering 7.3 million acres, nearly one quarter of the state’s land area. Milk is by far the state’s
largest agricultural commodity, with $2.7 billion in sales in 2017, New York vineyards covered 35,000 acres in 2017, producing 187,000 tons of grapes, surpassed only by
California and Washington. The full report is available at osc.state.ny.us/reports.

DELAWARE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES announced a "Free Weekend at Noah’s World" for Delaware County Residents, at 144 Roundhouse Road in Oneonta.
The free weekend is for Delaware County Residents through the Children with Special Health Care Needs Program, who need help in accessing various health care
professionals and other community resources. This sponsored weekend will take place this Friday through Sunday, Friday's hours are 11:00 am to 7:00 pm & Saturday
and Sunday, the hours are from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. More information is available at noahsworld.net or by calling Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.

Today approximately 100 Delegates from across 10 counties met in Binghamton to formally nominate the Republican candidate for State Supreme Court in the 6th
Judicial District, they unanimously selected Chenango County District Attorney Joe McBride to run as the Party's candidate in this November's election. The vacancy in
this office was created by the recent retirement of Judge Kevin Dowd.

Sidney High School Senior J.P. Dewey has been selected to perform with the NYSSMA Conference All-State Jazz Ensemble in Rochester this fall. Dewey will be playing
piano in the 18-piece ensemble, and will also attend the music conference from November 29-December 2, he will also be eligible to perform with the ensemble in March
as part of NYSSMA Day festivities in Albany.

A judge has denied a motion by ex-Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver regarding his bail request, pending the appeal of his corruption conviction and seven-year prison term. U.S. District Judge Valerie Caproni has denied Silver's request Monday, she stated that the substance of Silver's appeal lacks merit, and the sole purpose of the request was to stall Silver starting his prison term on October 5th. Silver was sentenced to 12 years in prison after his first conviction in 2015, that conviction was overturned after the U.S. Supreme Court redefined the boundaries of public corruption, then a 2nd jury convicted him
earlier this year, for taking $5 million illegally by using his political power for personal gain.

The 4th Annual Sidney Health Fair will be held at Keith Clark Park in Sidney this Saturday, with a host of activities planned,
Spokesperson Gabrielle Argo explains:

(Gabrielle Argo 9-20-18)

Representatives from Fox Hospital's Tri Town Regional Hospital will participate, along with representatives from Sidney EMS, Catholic Charities, The United Way & the Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention.

The 2018 Campaign Kick Off of the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties will be held today in Oneonta. The event will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the B Side Ballroom & Supper Club in the Clinton Plaza.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Thursday, September 20, 2018 in the Guilford Elementary Cafeteria at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

3 proposals were received by the Unatego School District for the sale of the former Otego Elementary School. Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dave Richards 7-10-18)

Dr. Richards said that the proposals received were from the Kildonan School of Amenia, to turn the building into a school for Dyslexic children, from LPP Management for a mixed use facility & 2+4 Management for senior apartments.

State Police are investigating a 1 vehicle crash on State Route 357 in the town of Unadilla that troopers discovered while on patrol. The Unidentified 40 year old man apparently drove off the highway, into Guide wires & a tree, he was extricated by Unadilla Firefighter & he was airlifted to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for treatment of head injuries & an arm fracture. The investigation is ongoing.

The Town of Sidney Offices, including the Court, has been moved into the New Sidney office building at 44 Grand Street. Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford comments:

(Gene Pigford 7-10-18)

The next Town of Sidney Board meeting will officially be held in the 44 Grand Street location in Sidney. The moves were precipitated by the sale of the Sidney Civic Center to 2+4 Management Company, who have built senior apartments on the 2nd & 3rd Floors, which forced offices to move to the 1st floor, or out of the building into new locations.

Otsego County Sheriff's department arrested 36 year old Ryan Biggs of Gloversville following an accident in Worcester Sunday. Biggs is accused of driving mentally & physically disabled people in an ARC vehicle while intoxicated, he was charged with DWI & endangering the welfare of an incompetent or disable person, he was released & faces court action at a later date.

A Cortland man was found guilty by an Otsego County Jury for selling heroin & cocaine in the city of Oneonta recently. 34 year old Jason Chase was found guilty after the jury deliberated for about 40 minute, he was returned to the Otsego County Jail pending sentencing on August 3rd on 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 28 year old Aaron Dumond of Denver New York for Tampering with Physical Evidence & Conspiracy, after a reported Assault in Roxbury in May. Dumond allegedly altered and concealed physical evidence; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bond pending future court action.

State Police at Deposit arrested 25 year old William Caiati of Tompkins, for Aggravated Family Offense, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Harassment. A trooper responded July 4th to a domestic dispute, where 1 victim reported that Caiati placed his hands around her neck, restricting breathing and she was shoved to the ground and injured her wrist, Ciaiti is also accused of disabling the victim's phone. A second victim reported that he allegedly punched her when she attempted to intervene. Caiati left, but was located by phone & turned himself in, he was arraigned in the town of Deposit and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail. An order of protection was also issued.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 28 year old Kevin Matthews of Worcester for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle that was taken without the owner’s permission, Matthews allegedly took the vehicle on July 4th, another vehicle in that driveway sustained damage. Troopers observed the vehicle on I-88 in Richmondville, they arrested Matthews for Driving while Ability Impaired by Drugs and other charges. Matthews was later turned over to troopers at SP Oneonta where he was arrested for Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle. He was arraigned in the Decatur Town Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2500 bond.

State Senator Jim Seward joined officials from local domestic violence prevention programs Monday to announce state grants totaling $45,000 to help support key community services. The funding awards included: Opportunities for Otsego - $15,000; Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties - $15,000; Delaware Opportunities - $7,500 & Liberty Resources in Chenango County - $7,500.

State Police at Sidney arrested 35 year old Ronald Greek of Dansville, for DWI with a reported B.A.C of .24%. A trooper on State Route 23 in Oneonta where Greek is accused of Speeding & being intoxicated, He was arrested & was released on appearance tickets for town of Oneonta Court on July 24th.

State Police at Sidney arrested 39 year old John Forte of Unadilla for Aggravated DWI with a reported B.A.C of .21%. Troopers were dispatched to a complaint of an intoxicated driver, a trooper located the vehicle in the driveway of a residence on Depot Street, Forte was arrested & was released on appearance tickets returnable to the town of Unadilla Court on July 23, 2018 then later turned over to a sober third party.

Thousands attended the Calling Hours & Funeral Services over the weekend for Trooper Nicholas Clark. Troopers & officers from various law enforcement agencies paid their respects, along with friends and family members, at the services held at Alfred University. Trooper Clark died in the line of duty last Monday while responding to the report of a suicidal man who had barricaded himself inside a home in Steuben County.

The American Red Cross is now facing an emergency blood shortage following a difficult Fourth of July week for blood donations; with hundreds fewer blood drives than a typical week and a resulting decline in donations. All eligible donors are urgently needed to give now to help replenish the blood supply. Locally, blood drives are being held today in from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the SFCU main branch in Sidney; in Gilbertsville, from 1:00 to 6:00 PM, at the Christ Episcopal Church, In Delhi Wednesday from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm at the State University of New York Delhi O’Connor Center for Community Engagement, at 2 Main Street & Friday from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 41861 State Highway 10

Norwich City police arrested an area couple for allegedly assaulting a child. Police were notified by the Chenango County Department of Child Protective Services, The child had been taken to Chenango Memorial Hospital’s Emergency room with injuries to the head & face, police arrested 31-year-old Marrianne Ray and 31-year-old Scott Ray of Norwich for 2nd degree Assault and endangering the welfare of a child, Both were arraigned in Norwich City Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $75,000 cash bail, they will reappear in Norwich City Court at a later date.

The trial of Dean & Adam Skelos continued Friday, with former Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos taking the stand. Dean Skelos was convicted in his first trial for exchanging political favors in order to get his son Adam High Paying No-Show Jobs, a new trial was ordered after the US Supreme Court changed the definition of Corruption, leading to new trials for Skelos & Former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

The Town of Oneonta announced that they are flushing Hydrants starting today. Hydrants will be flushed in the Plains Parish, Morningside Heights & Angel Heights locations, local residents may have discolored water, they are advised to let the water run until it is clear, more information is available at 432-4581.

The Town of Guilford announced that the Town Office will be closed Tuesday. Officials with the town said that the office is closed due to a jury trial, more information is available at 895-9966.

The Town & Village of Unadilla announced road closures Tuesday & Wednesday. Highway Superintendent Rodney Renwick told WCDO News that Wendall Bachman & Buckhorn Lake Roads will be closed for paving, from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM both days.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York's maple industry hit a 74-year record in 2018 with the production of 806,000 gallons of maple syrup. The maple industry in New York has grown by nearly 50 percent in the last five years and continues to maintain the state's standing as the second leading producer of fresh maple syrup in the nation. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, New York's maple production constituted about 19 percent of the national total. New York producers also benefited from a long season in 2018 which lasted 52 days, compared to 43 days in 2017

State Senator Jim Seward will be in Otsego County today at Opportunities for Otsego in Oneonta at 2:00 PM. Senator Seward will announce special state grants he secured to help fund local domestic violence prevention programs. Representatives from Opportunities for Otsego, Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and Liberty Resources of Chenango County will join Senator Seward for the announcement. Senator Seward will also detail several legislative accomplishments from the past year to combat domestic violence and sexual harassment.

The Norwich Gus Macker tournament has extended the deadline for teams to register, and volunteers are needed for a host of jobs at this year's Macker, according to organizer Tom Revoir:

(Tom Revoir 6-27-18)

The Annual Macker Tournament benefits the Norwich YMCA, an estimated 1,200 players have already signed up for the 3 on 3 Basketball tournament in Norwich on July 14th & 15th. Those who want to volunteer can call Revoir at the Norwich YMCA at 336-9622, extension 29.

The Broome County District Attorney’s office announced that 27 year old Thomas Sessions of Whitney Point was arraigned Wednesday in Broome County Court, in connection with a March 23rd attack that seriously injured a Lisle resident. Sessions was located earlier this month in Arizona and taken into custody. The grand jury indictment charges Sessions with attempted 2nd degree murder, 1st degree assault, & attempted 1st & 2nd degree assault; he is accused of striking the victim in the head after knocking on the victim’s door & claiming to have a disabled vehicle.

A new report released Monday by a coalition of New York State law enforcement officials, public health experts and elected officials, showed that The Delaware County had the highest rates of gun-related suicide and homicide. The research focused at the rate of homicide and suicide in each county from 2012 to 2016, the report showed that for every 100,000 residents of Delaware County, there were 13.4 gun-related deaths, & the a rate of suicide by gun at 12.9. Other counties that ranked high were Allegany, Wyoming, Cattaraugus and Sullivan counties. New York State’s overall gun-related death rate was 4.4 deaths per 100,000 residents, which is below the national average of 11.8 deaths per 100,000 residents.

Governor Cuomo announced the launch of Open FOIL NY, to provide access to public records in New York. Open FOIL NY offers an open-access online form to request records from up to 3 agencies simultaneously, Access & contact information for 59 State agencies and authorities, and direct access to a growing body of online information and resources.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 19 year old Cordell Witherow of Plymouth for 3rd degree Assault. Witherow is accused of causing serious physical injury to an unidentified male victim. Witherow was released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in the Town of Plymouth Court at a later date.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 24 year old Cara Kaskeski of Mount Vision, for Welfare Fraud & Offering a False Instrument for Filing. Kaskeski allegedly collected more than $9,000 in child care assistance from July 2014 through November 2017 which she was not entitled to receive, she was issued appearance tickets to appear in the City of Norwich Court at a later date.

The next meeting of the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will be held at Track Side Dining on Main Street in Sidney this evening. The meeting will run from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, participants are invited to use the rear entrance.

Antonio Delgado of Rhinebeck won the 19th Congressional District Democratic Primary yesterday; he will face Republican incumbent John Faso in November. Delgado beat out 6 other Democrats to win the primary. The 19th district will be one of the most-watched races in the country

US Postal Inspectors, State Police CNET, Homeland Security Investigators (HSI), Vestal Police Department and the Broome County Drug Task Force made a controlled delivery of a package containing approximately 250 grams of Ecstasy to a residence in Binghamton. Following the delivery, a search was conducted at the home of 32 year old Andrew Davis, A search of the residence leads to the recovery of the package, digital scales, cellphone, & other items, Davis was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, he was arraigned and was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 42 year old Patrick Renner Jr. of Stamford for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device, Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle & violating the terms of his probation. Renner is accused of driving a vehicle on Main Street in the Village of Stamford on Thursday with a revoked driver’s license and without an ignition interlock device, from a previous DWI conviction. Renner was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending further court action.

State Police arrested 36 year old Jennifer Grant of Westford for DWI, Operating a Vehicle While Registration Suspended, & Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, plus numerous traffic tickets. Troopers stopped Grant while on Otsego County Highway 34 after they observed her cross the center line and drive onto the shoulder. Grant was released to a sober third party and given appearance tickets to the town of Westford Court on July 17th.

State Police arrested 35 year old Todd Bailey of Cobleskill for felony Criminal Mischief, plus 3rd degree Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers were dispatched to Gilbert Lake Park in the town of Laurens for a domestic dispute involving several people; Bailey is accused of having a physical altercation with several family members, including a child under the age of 17, and causing damage to a vehicle. Bailey was arraigned in the town of Laurens Court and was released in his recognizance, pending court action Thursday

Delaware County Public Health and Delaware Opportunities will be holding a free Car Seat Safety Event at Delaware Opportunities 35430 NY-10, in Hamden, today from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Parents and caregivers can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety seat technicians. Car seats which do not meet the Federal Motor Safety Standard may be replaced; more information is available at 832-5200.

Former State Senate Leader Dean Skelos and his son Adam returned to a Manhattan Federal Court room Tuesday, they will be retried on corruption charges, after their previous convictions were tossed on appeal. Both were convicted in 2015< dean Skelos was accused of using his political influence to get his son Adam a series of “No Show” jobs with salaries totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. The 2015 convictions were tossed after the US Supreme Court changed the definition of public corruption, which allowed for retrial for Skelos & former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

The Main Street Revitalization Project in the village of Sidney is progressing on schedule this year, after some setbacks last year. Sidney Village Grants Administrator John Redente explains:

(John Redente 6-20-18)

Redente said that Phase 1 of the Green Plain part of the project is nearing completion with archeological digs at the site; the project will progress along with the rest of the buy-out program from those living in the hardest hit section around River Street.

The Sidney EMS is into its 3rd year, with huge growth for a need of their services by the community, which means a need for bigger facilities, more staff & more equipment. Dana Weygand is the Director of Operations for SIDNEY EMS:

(Dana Weygand 6-20-18)

Weygand said that the unit is a Not-For Profit, they do charge for their services, with the money used to upgrade equipment & keep the staff up to date on the latest techniques 7 technologies, a fundraising effort should be announced shortly.

There will be no changes to the state's educational system for teacher certification. A New York court has thrown out rules that would have let some charter schools certify their own teachers. Acting State Supreme Court Justice Debra Young has ruled that only the state education commissioner and Board of Regents can set teacher qualification standards in New York State.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that the Next “Reunite Bainbridge” Meeting will be held on Monday June 25th, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. The meeting will be held at Bob’s Diner.

The State Department of Labor released preliminary local area unemployment rates for May 2018. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.6% in April to 4.5% in May 2018. Locally, Chenango County had 4.3% unemployment, Delaware County had 4.5% & Otsego County had an even 4% unemployment in May.

State Senator Fred Akshar of the Senate Joint Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction, announced funding for 17 County jails throughout New York State in order to fund substance use disorder treatment and transition services. The Task Force advocated for, and secured, $3.75 million in the 2018-19 state budget to help implement, support, and expand these services. Locally, the Broome County Jail will get $400,000 in funding for this program.

Delaware County Public Health and Delaware Opportunities will be holding a free Car Seat Safety Event at Delaware Opportunities on State Route 10 in Hamden, on Wednesday June 27th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Parents and caregivers can have their child’s car seat checked at no cost by certified child safety seat technicians; Car seats which do not meet the Federal Motor Safety Standard may be replaced. More information is available at 832-5200.

Legislative Leaders in Albany announced that they expect to wrap up work on the state budget on Thursday March 29th. Local Assemblyman Cliff Crouch said that again this year, Governor Cuomo has added some policy issues into the budget, which he feels should be dealt with apart from the budget:

(Cliff Crouch 3-26-18)

Governor Cuomo & state leaders wanted to get the budget deal done before the Easter holiday weekend; the budget is expected to finish in the neighborhood of 157 billion dollars this year.

State Police arrested 2 Springbrook employees who allegedly took inappropriate Snapchat videos of residents without their knowledge. Police arrested 20 year old Sharon McDowall of Oneonta & 22 year old Julianne Carbone of Oneonta for Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person & Unlawful Surveillance, McDowall was arraigned and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $5,000 cash or $10,000 bond, Carbone was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to be in town of Oneonta Court Tuesday.

While tens of thousands march to end gun violence in Washington D.C. Saturday, many residents came out for smaller scale marches in Oneonta & Binghamton on Saturday. The Marches started after survivors of the Parkland Florida School mass shooting organized the march on Washington in an effort to change gun laws across the country.

The State Department of Civil Service today announced the availability of approximately 500 new student internships for the upcoming Summer 2018 Session throughout New York State government and encouraged students to apply prior to the April 20, 2018 application deadline. Student internships are available across a wide array of State agencies and include opportunities in finance, environmental conservation, criminal justice, health care, engineering, and a host of other professional disciplines. A current list of available internships for this summer is available at nysinternships.cs.ny.gov.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 56 year old Patrick Macdonald of Walton, New York on charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated DWI with a blood alcohol content of .18 or higher, and Obstructing Governmental Administration, Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, and Reckless Driving, as well as numerous vehicle and traffic violations. This arrest was a result of a police pursuit beginning in the Town of Walton and concluding in the Town of Franklin. Macdonald was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 secured bond. Sheriff’s Deputies were assisted by the Village of Walton Police Department.

USA Today reports today that former NFL player turned Baseball player Tim Tebow, will start this spring season with the Binghamton Rumble Ponies. The New York Mets are still assigning players to various levels this week, as the opening day of the Major League baseball season is this Thursday.

State Police executed a search warrant in the town of Unadilla, they arrested 28 year old Michael Schermerhorn, 32 year old Heather Prince, 40 year old Eric Hoyt & 37 year old Barbara Meyers, all of Unadilla, on a variety of charges, including illegal manufacture of Methamphetamine. State Police seized methamphetamine oil, 2 grams of meth, a sawed off shotgun, a digital scale and components used to make methamphetamine. All 4 were arraigned in the town of Otego Court & were remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $15,000 cash bail or $30,000 bond pending court action on March 29th.

Broome County Sheriff's department responded Friday to a 4 car accident in the Town of Union. 30 year old Rebecca Crane of Sayre, Pennsylvania hit vehicles waiting at a stop light, she admitted to speeding as her husband 33 year old Gary Crane was in the car & wasn't breathing due to a heroin overdose, he was taken to Wilson Hospital where he recovered. Rebecca Crane was charged with Driving While Intoxicated with child in vehicle, Driving While Ability Impaired-Drugs, Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Crane was arraigned & is being held without bail, more charges are expected.

State Police CNET officers & Oneonta Police Department executed a search warrant at 5357 State Route 7 in Oneonta's East End. Police arrested 35 year old Benjamin Bockus of Oneonta for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, plus Criminal Possession of Marihuana, Criminal Nuisance and 2 counts of Criminally using Drug Paraphernalia. Police seized approximately 48 grams of cocaine, approximately 300 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, concentrated cannabis, 2.5 pounds of marihuana, 3 digital scales, cellular phones, drug packaging material and $7,985.00 in cash. Bockus was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.

State Police at Troop C have released the results of their crackdown on impaired drivers over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. 11 impaired driving arrests were reported by Troop C, while statewide, there were 217 impaired driving arrests in New York State on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced that William Streck will return to the organization to assume the role of President and CEO, following the decision by current CEO Vance Brown to step down effective April 20th, , to pursue opportunities outside of Bassett. Streck served as Bassett’s President & CEO from 1984 to 2014, he then joined the Healthcare Association of New York State as Chief Medical and Health Systems Innovation Officer. Streck will also be tasked with developing a long-term leadership strategy for Bassett Healthcare Network. Last fall, William LeCates, was appointed acting president of Bassett Medical Center and will be president of Bassett Medical Center when the network CEO transition is completed.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce along with other agencies, is transforming the former Andel inn of Andes into an agri-business incubator, called the " Delaware County Foodworks Plus", Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 3-20-18)

The Inn was purchased last month by the Delaware County IDA for $320,000.

State Police arrested 25 year old Chad Darwesh of Schenectady for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and Controlled Substances in Non-Original Container and several traffic infractions. Troopers observed Darwesh speeding on Interstate 88 in Otego, A passenger 30 year old Michael Horton of Schenectady, was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Darwesh was arraigned in the town of Otego Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond.

41 year old Louisa Garcia of Oxford pleaded guilty to making a false claim against the United States for assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. Garcia admitted that she prepared 110 false tax returns between 2011 and 2014, resulting in an intended loss to the United States of $848,196. Garcia faces up to 8 years in prison, post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years, and a maximum $250,000 fine, when she is sentenced on July 17th.

The New York State Fair Officials announced today that Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members "Blondie" will take the stage on the fair's opening day on the Chevy Court. Opening day for the Great New York State Fair is Wednesday August 22nd at 8:00 pm.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig will deliver the annual State of The City Address tonight at 7:00 PM, during the Oneonta Common Council meeting. Prior to the annual address at 6:15, Mayor Herzig will present the annual Trailblazer Awards in the City Hall Lobby.

Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell announced that a $5,000 reward was issued for information leading to the arrest of 20 year old Valentino Mondolfi, who is a witness in the ongoing Broome County Court murder trial of Jabari Ashe. Mondolfi is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Anyone with information is asked to call Binghamton Police at 772-7080.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s arrested 48 year old Michael Wright of Walton for DWI & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, after deputies observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed in the Town of Tompkins. Wright is also accused of driving with a revoked license; he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 cash bail. Wright is to re-appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 21 year old Johnathan Ruland of Lancaster, Pennsylvania for DWI, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. Ruland was stopped at a checkpoint on State Highway 7, in the town of Unadilla, troopers accused Ruland of possessing marijuana and cocaine & he was wanted on a warrant with the Village of Sidney Police. Ruland was arraigned in the town of Unadilla and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,500 bail. He is scheduled to reappear in the town of Unadilla on April 9th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 54 year-old Lorraine Hahn of the Walton for DWI in the Village of Walton, she was also issued a ticket for operating a motor vehicle with inadequate brake lights. Hahn was released on an appearance ticket and scheduled to appear before the Village of Walton Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 35-year-old Richard Viti of Frankfort for Menacing, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers responded to a report of a man menacing with a gun on I-88 in the town of Bainbridge, troopers were advised that the suspect had been driving recklessly, displayed a handgun at the complainant’s vehicle as he passed them, and continued to drive away. Viti was arrested near Owego without incident; he was arraigned in the town of Bainbridge Court and was released on his own recognizance. His next court date is pending.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office announced that Benjamin Greiner of Binghamton was back in custody after it was discovered that he was wanted as a fugitive from Justice in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania. Greiner was booked back into the Otsego County Correctional Facility without bail pending extradition in Otsego County Court.

Delaware Opportunities announced that Janelle Montgomery would be the new Executive Director. Montgomery replaces John Eberhard of Delancey, who died in a car crash on January 6th, after running the program 1984.

Governor Cuomo today announced $5.5 million is available through 2 new grant opportunities to advance farmland protection efforts throughout the state. Both programs will help preserve viable farmland in agricultural production, protecting it from development and conversion to non-farm uses. The funding will also help farmers identify available land and expedite the process of permanently protecting agricultural properties through perpetual conservation easements. More details on eligibility and the application process are available at agriculture.ny.gov/RFPS.html.

New York’s statewide unemployment rate decreased from 4.7% to 4.6% in December 2017, according to preliminary figures released today by the New York State Department of Labor. The Biggest Job Gains were in Education, Health care, Professional & Business Services, Leisure & Hospitality & Construction. The biggest decline was in manufacturing jobs.

The City of Oneonta & the Otsego IDA are in the process of updating the city's Comprehensive Plan. A steering committee will be hosting a community open house on today at the Wilber Mansion from 3:00 to 7:00 PM for the public to review the plan & contribute ideas. More information is available at facebook.com/opportunity Oneonta.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Tonight in the Guilford Elementary school at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

James Giacalone was released Saturday from a Pennsylvania Hospital, and into the custody of the State Police Violent Felony Warrant Squad. Giacalone had previously waived extradition proceedings, was returned to New York to face multiple charges, including two counts of attempted first degree murder of a police officer, for allegedly trying to run over 2 State Troopers who were trying to arrest him on separate charges on January 2nd in Binghamton. Giacalone was arraigned in the city of Binghamton Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set. His next court dates are pending.

Chenango County Sheriff’s department arrested 36-year-old Richard Madison of Endicott for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Resisting Arrest following a foot chase through the City of Norwich. Madison was found to be in possession of Crack Cocaine packaged for sale and over $4000 was seized. This investigation is ongoing with more charges expected. Madison was arraigned in the City of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 29-year-old Christopher Manning of Unadilla, Thursday on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Village of Walton Court for Criminal Mischief. Deputies accuse Manning of intentionally damaging property of another person in an amount exceeding $250. Manning was arraigned at the Village of Walton Court and was released on his own recognizance to appear at a later date.

A Binghamton man has been indicted on additional charges for trying to kill his wife. The Broome County District Attorney's Office accuses 35 year-old Mike Rivera of getting into a violent altercation with his wife on December 16th, Police found the victim with several stab wounds and other injuries. Rivera was initially charged with attempted murder and unlawful imprisonment. A Broome County Grand Jury has added attempted assault, assault, strangulation and sexual abuse charges.

The Community Foundation for South Central New York announced Spring 2018 grant opportunities for non-profit organizations, municipalities and school districts operating in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego and Tioga Counties. Applicants should complete and submit their applications on-line at donorswhocare.org.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced their First friday Eat & Meet Breakfast to be held on February 2nd. The event will be held from 8:30 to 10:00 am at the Andes Hotel at 110 Main Street in Andes, registrations are requested at delawarecounty.org/

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties is in partnership with the IRS and SUNY Oneonta, to provide free tax preparation and filing for anyone who made $54,000 or less in tax year 2017. A Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site is located at the First United Methodist Church at 66 Chestnut Street in Oneonta now through April, on Wednesday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This site will begin appointments on January 27, 2018. Appointments are recommended through Catholic Charities at 432-0061.