WCDO Radio News

As a response to the federal tax bill limiting the deduction for state and local taxes, Governor Cuomo signed an executive order allowing New Yorkers to pay their 2018 property taxes in 2017. There has been some confusion locally about who needs to take advantage of this offer, Sidney Town Clerk Lisa French explains:

(Lisa French 12-28-17)

French said that residents should consult their local City, Town or County Tax department or their tax preparer or tax attorney regarding the details, those particicpating need to make their Payments by December 31st.

After 15 years of absence, Broome County is once again home to African Lions. A new cub recently came to reside at Animal Adventure Park, The female cub is 3 months old, its addition will be will be celebrated on World Lion Day, Friday, August 10th, with the celebrations continuing throughout the weekend.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 34 year old Russell Mills of Delancey for Criminal Mischief. Mills is accused of intentionally preventing another person from placing a 911 phone call to law enforcement during a domestic dispute. Mills was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance; he will reappear in the Town of Hamden Court for further court proceedings at a later date.

The Broome County Legislature approved the proposal to accept $3 million dollars in state money to help turn the former Broome Developmental Center into an Opioid Crisis center operated by a Syracuse Healthcare group. The center could be open as soon as next month, and could treat up to 3200 patients suffering from Opioid Addictions.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s arrested Joseph Schmierer of Delhi on a Bench Warrant issued by the Town of Sidney Court for the charges of Making a Terrorist Threat, Assault, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, & Criminal Contempt of the Legislature. Schmierer was arraigned in the Town of Sidney and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 secured bond.

25-year old Danielle Agosto of Endicott faces several charges, for allegedly fracturing the skull of a 3 year old. Agosto was charged with assault & Endangering the welfare of a child for the attack that occured in October. Agosto is being held in the Broome County Jail.

28-year old Robert Mikulski of Endicott was arrested on Saturday on robbery and drug charges, after he allegedly tried to rob Matt's Barber shop located in Endicott Saturday afternoon. Mikulski was taken into custody a few blocks away after fleeing on foot, he was found to possess methamphetamine and heroin. Mikulski was arraigned & was sent to the Broome County Jail pending additional court action.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local unemployment rates for November. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased to 4.7% in November 2017. Locally, Chenango County increased to 5.4%, Delaware County's rate was 5.3% & Otsego County increased to 5% in November.

An American Red Cross Blood drive is being held today in Broome County, in honor of Trooper Christopher Skinner, who was fatally hit by a car during a traffic stop on I-81 in 2014. The Blood drives for the general public will be held today from 12:00 Noon until 6:00 PM, at the 5 Mile Point Fire Company in Kirkwood, the Binghamton State Office Building on Hawley Street & a Blood drive for State Troopers and their families will be held at the Trooper Barracks in Kirkwood. Those wishing to doante can make an appointment with the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS

The Broome County legislature is expected to vote today on the proposal to turn the former Broome Developmental Center into an Opioid Crisis center operated by a Syracuse Healthcare group. The center could be open as soon as next month, and could treat up to 3200 patients suffering from Opioid Addictions.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual "State Of The State" Breakfast on Tuesday Janaury 2nd starting at 8:00 AM. The event will be held at the SUNY Oneonta Morris Hall Otsego Grill, reservations are requested at 432-4500.

23-year-old Kevin Perry of Laurens was scheduled to appear in Oneonta Town Court this morning to face a felony hearing. Perry of accused of fatally shooting his parents in their Town of Laurens residence last Tuesday, he remains held without bail in the Otsego county jail pending future court action.

The Delaware County Office for the Aging & NY Connects is seeking volunteer drivers for the non-emergency medical transportation program. Areas in the county that are currently underserved are Davenport, Delhi, Downsville, Grand Gorge, and Hancock. Transportation is typically for doctor or dentist appointments, laboratory tests, X-rays, prescription pick-ups and dropping off clients for hospital stays. Drivers who volunteer their time are reimbursed for their mileage to and from their homes; more information is available at 832-5750.

Binghamton Police arrested 35-year-old Mike Rivera of Binghamton for 2nd degree attempted Murder, for allegedly stabbing his wife several times. Rivera was arraigned and was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail pending future court action.

Governor Cuomo unveiled a proposal to direct the Commissioner of Labor to schedule public hearings to examine industries and evaluate the possibility of ending minimum wage tip credits in New York State. In certain workplaces, such as car washes and restaurants, where wages and tips are both generally low, workers' income can rely entirely upon tips. The Department of Labor will hold public hearings to solicit input from workers, businesses, those who wish to testify will be able to pre-register on the Department's website, times & locations for the hearings will be posted on that website shortly.

Emergency crews responded to the report of a tractor-trailer rollover at about 2:00 this morning, near exit 2 on I-88 West. The Broome County Sheriff's Office, Chenango Bridge Fire Department, and the Hillcrest Fire Department all responded, 1 lane of traffic was closed for the investigation & the clean up, so far no tickets have been announced.

State Police stopped a vehicle on I-81 in the Town of Chenango for speeding, an odor of marihuana was detected and 21-year-old James Togo of Wilmington, Delaware, was arrested. During a search of Togo’s vehicle, Police seized 2 pounds of marihuana, a scale, drug paraphernalia, various controlled substances, and over $4,000 in cash. Togo was charged with Criminal Possession of Marihuana, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & several traffic violations. He was arraigned and was remanded to the Broome County jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

The Otsego County Sheriff's department announced that Timothy & Solvieg Perry of Laurens each died from a Gun Shot Wound in their town of Laurens residence Tuesday. Their son, 23-year-old Kevin Perry has been charged with 1st degree murder & criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the case. Perry was arraigned Wednesday & is being held without bail in the Otsego County Jail pending future court action.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 31 year old Bradley Wallace of Delhi for Criminal Mischief & Unlawful Imprisonment, following a domestic dispute in the Town of Delhi. Wallace was later arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correction Facility in lieu of $1500 cash bail. Wallace is set to return to the Town of Delhi Court on a later date for further court proceedings.

The State Department of Health announced that New York made the largest five-year gain of all 50 states in this year's annual America's Health Rankings report. New York was ranked 10th in 2017, rising from 18th in 2012. When the rankings were first created in 1990, New York was ranked 40th in the nation. The full report is available at assets.americashealthrankings.org.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division has arrested 33-year-old Joshua Evans of Windsor for Endangering the Welfare of a Child, for allegedly engaging in inappropriate sexual conversation with a 12-year-old female in November. Evans was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court, and released on his own recognizance to appear in court on a later date.

The search for a missing Schoharie County man, who had gone hunting, has extended to Delaware County. 77-year-old Carl Weaver from the town of Seward was reported missing by neighbors, his pickup truck was found on South Worcester Hill road in Jefferson in Delaware County yesterday. Anyone with information should call the Schoharie County Sheriff's Office at (518) 295-2268.

23 Year old Kevin Perry of Laurens has been charged with 1st degree murder & criminal use of a weapon, for allegedly killing his parents in their home on New Road in the town of Laurens last night. The sheriff's office received a call from a relative who found Tim & Solveig Perry dead in their home, The Otsego County Sheriff's department alerted area law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for Perry's Pickup truck. Schoharie County sheriff’s deputies spotted the Pick Up truck, on I-88, Perry was apprehended following a high-speed chase, & a crash where Perry’s vehicle overturned at Exit 23. Perry was arraigned today in Town of Oneonta court, he was remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputy’s arrested Matthew Bowden of Hancock for Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, after a stop in Hancock for traffic violations. Deputies observed a strong scent of marihuana emanating from the vehicle; a search of the vehicle uncovered a quantity of marihuana. Deputies also discovered that Bowden’s operating privileges in New York State had been suspended. Bowden was released with appearance tickets to appear in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo today announced that more than $755 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round VII of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. All 10 regions won money for their projects, the top 5 winning regions were Central New York, Mohawk Valley, the Capital Region, The Mid Hudson region & Long Island. Locally, the Mohawk regional Council, which includes Otsego County, receives $85.5 Million dollars for their projects, which includes a $525,000 award for Brewery Ommegang for their Hospitality Center in Cooperstown. The Southern Tier Region, which contains Delaware, Chenango & Broome Counties will receive 67. 3 Million dollars for their various projects.

The State Health Department declared that influenza is now prevalent in the State, which puts into effect a regulation requiring that health care workers who are not vaccinated against influenza wear surgical or procedure masks in areas where patients are typically present. New York has had 1,820 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in 54 counties and all 5 boroughs of New York City. There have been 612 influenza-related hospitalizations reported, and no reports of pediatric deaths from influenza. Over the last three seasons, there have been 19 pediatric influenza deaths in New York and an average of 11,183 influenza-related hospitalizations each season.

Broome County District Attorney Stephen Cornwell announced that Joshua Taylor was sentenced in Broome County Court Tuesday, for the murder of James High in Binghamton in 2015. Taylor will spend 25 years to life behind in jail for the murder of High outside the Antler Lodge in July 2015.

Norwich Police & Chenango County Sheriff's deputies arrested 3 people on various charges after the execution of a "no-knock" search warrant at 29 Silver Street Tuesday. Arrested were 50-year-old Alan Banks of Norwich for Criminal sale of a controlled substance & Criminal nuisance, 31-year-old Steven White of Norwich for Criminal sale of a controlled substance & 29-year-old Amanda Strozier of Norwich for Criminal nuisance. Banks and White are accused of selling cocaine; while Banks and Strozier are accused of allowing people to sells drugs at their Norwich apartment. Banks and White were sent to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 bail each, while Strozier was sent on $5,000 bail. All 3 will appear in Norwich City Court Thursday.

State Prison inmate David Sweat of Broome County is reportedly on a Hunger Strike at Attica state prison. State Correction officials announced that they are seeking a court order to insert a feeding tube for Sweat. Sweat is serving jail time for the 2002 murder of Broome County Deputy Kevin Tarsia, and for participating in the highly publicized escape from the Dannemora prison in 2015.

Governor Cuomo today directed the New York Department of State to issue new regulations holding consumer credit reporting agencies accountable to the public. The regulations, adopted on an emergency basis and effective immediately, require consumer credit reporting agencies to respond within 10 days to requests made by the Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection on behalf of consumers. The new regulations to protect consumers are available at dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection.

The Delaware County Office for the Aging will hold a Holiday Open House Wednesday at their new location. The Open House will run from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the 97 Main street location in Delhi.

State Police attempted to stop a Geo Tracker in Binghamton for multiple traffic violations, the operator of the vehicle failed to comply and a pursuit began to Windsor. The occupants threw auto parts into the path of pursuing law enforcement vehicles, their vehicle was eventually stopped with the use of tire deflation devices on Main Street in the village of Windsor, when the two occupants fled on foot & were arrested after a short chase. The vehicle operator was 23 year old Aaron Vogel of Hallstead, Pennsylvania, he was charged with the felony of Reckless Endangerment, Driving a Motor Vehicle While Impaired by Drugs, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, and multiple traffic violations. The passenger, 20 year old Dylan Thompson of Montrose, Pennsylvania was charged with Reckless Endangerment and Resisting Arrest. They were arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 60 year old Louis Brigandi of Walton, for Felony Criminal Mischief, Aggravated Harassment and Trespassing. Brigandi allegedly entered on to a neighbor’s property in the Town of Hamden and intentionally damaged property, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was released to re-appear at later date.

65 year old Ramadan Abdullah of Johnson City was found guilty this afternoon in Broome County Court, on a number of counts of criminal possession of a weapon. The man charged after a major weapons bust in Broome County in June has been found guilty of several counts of criminal possession of a weapon. The jury deliberated for about 8 hours starting yesterday through early this afternoon, Abdullah faces sentencing on December 19th, and he was transported back to the Broome County Jail.

66-year-old Ronald Cook of Utica was scheduled to be arraigned back in Oneida County Court this afternoon. Cook was on the run from Law Enforcement from last Wednesday to Saturday, when he removed his GPS Ankle bracelet & failed to visit with his parole officer. Cook served jail time for the rape of a Binghamton woman in 1990, he was arrested at a Binghamton restaurant Saturday afternoon & was turned back over to Oneida county officials.

Chenango County Sheriff’s department arrested 51-year-old Scott Fitch of Preston for 2 counts of Harassment. Fitch is accused of subjecting a victim to unwanted physical contact during the course of a domestic dispute, Fitch was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and was released on his own recognizance, he will appear in the Town of Preston Court at a later date.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce invites the public to attend its inaugural “A Taste for Commerce” event, today from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Andes Hotel, 110 Main Street, Andes. Area restaurant owners and caterers will create a signature sample using locally sourced ingredients, which will be available for purchase for a nominal fee.

The Hartwick College Nursing Department invites the public to an informational meeting about its 18-month Accelerated Nursing Program. The event is Today, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM in Johnstone Science Center, on the Hartwick College campus. More information on the event or the Accelerated Nursing Program is available at 431-4790 or 431-4324.

State Police arrested 37-year-old Charlotte Heath of Guilford for Menacing & Harassment. Troopers responded to a report of a dispute on Phillips Odell Road, in the Town of Guilford, where Heath allegedly threatened her husband while trying to strike him with an unspecified item. She was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 property bond. An order of protection was issued; Heath faces court action on November 14th.

State Police, State Liquor Authority and Endicott Police Department conducted an Underage Drinker Identification Enforcement check Friday. They targeted 29 Broome County area convenience stores that sold alcoholic beverages, only 1 sold alcohol to an underage operative, at Kelly's Gulf on State route 26 in the Town of Maine. 21-year-old store clerk Zonia Altamirano of Apalachin was arrested for selling alcohol to a minor; She was given an appearance ticket for Town of Maine Court on November 28th.

The Hartwick College Nursing Department invites the public to an informational meeting about its 18-month Accelerated Nursing Program. The event is Tuesday, November 14, 2017, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM in Johnstone Science Center, on the Hartwick College campus. More information on the event or the Accelerated Nursing Program is available at 431-4790 or 431-4324.

The elections results are in for many of the key races in the Tri-County Area: Sidney Town Supervisor Gene Pigford is re-elected, for the 2 Sidney Council seats, the winners are Pete Cordes & Frank Selleck. Walton Supervisor Charles Gregory is re-elected, the Franklin Town Council winners were David Grant & Garret Sitts, Oneonta mayor Gary Herzig is re-elected, Oneonta Town Supervisor Robert Wood is re-elected, Oneonta town council Winners were Patricia Jacob & Randy Mowers, Butternuts town board Winners were Paul Irwin & Scot Lueck, for the Norwich City Council 4th Ward: Linda Kays Biviano wins, Norwich Town Council seats go to Stanley Foulds & Debra Cubbedge, the Otselic Supervisor is Marjorie Davis & Oxford Supervisor, incumbent Lawrence Wilcox wins. The proposition for all state voters: the Constitutional Convention was defeated, Cutting Public Pensions for convicted officials was approved, and allowing expansion of roads & bike paths in the Catskills & Adirondacks is too close to call. Candidates who won their races for seats on the Otsego County Board of Representatives include Ed Frazier, Michele Farwell, Kathleen Clark, Andrew Stammel, Margaret Kennedy, Peter Oberacker, David Bliss, Andrew Marietta, Keith McCarty, Adrienne Martini, Danny Lapin & Lizabeth Shannon.

Governor Cuomo announced that applications for home heating assistance would be accepted beginning Monday, November 13 throughout New York State. The Home Energy Assistance Program is making $327 million in federal funding available to eligible older New Yorkers and low- and moderate-income New Yorkers to help cover heating costs. Households that are eligible can receive assistance of up to $726, depending on income, household size, and how the home is heated. Applications are accepted at local departments of social services, anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular Home Energy Assistance benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov. Last year, nearly 1.5 million households received assistance through HEAP.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 17 year old Dylan Osonitch of Queens for unlicensed operator, operating with an expired registration sticker displayed, failure to keep right, and driving while ability impaired by drugs, following a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester. Osonitch was later released on tickets returnable to Colchester Town Court at a later date.

Tomorrow is Election Day, with many local town & city races of importance to be decided by voters. All voters Statewide will decide on propositions, which will be on the back of the ballots, to decide if a constitutional convention should be convened to overhaul state government, if politicians convicted of corruption should lose their pensions, and if forest land in the Adirondacks and Catskills can be used for widened roads and bicycle paths. Key Chenango County races include the Oxford town supervisor’s race between Canice Paliotta vs. incumbent Lawrence Wilcox, the Norwich town council race has 4 candidates for 2 positions, between Debra Cubbedge, Barbara Collins, Stanley Foulds & David law. For the Otselic town supervisor position, Marjorie Davis & John Myers are on the ballot. In Delaware County; For Town of Sidney Supervisor; incumbent Gene Pigford faces Bill Heath, & there are 4 Town board candidates for 2 seats, candidates on the ballot are Pete Cordes, Dan Cristelli, Frank Selleck & John Woodyshek, however Woodyshek announced that he is NOT seeking re-election. in the Town of Franklin Board there are 2 open seats with 3 candidates: Patricia Tyrell, David Grant & Garrett Sitts. In the Walton town supervisor’s race, Charles Gregory faces Bruce Dolph. In Otsego County races of note: there are Board of Representative's races in all districts except the 10th & 11th where 1 candidate each is running unopposed. For Town of Oneonta Supervisor, Republican Mike Butler challenges Incumbent Democrat Robert Wood, for the Oneonta Town Board Incumbents Patricia Jacob and Randy Mowers, are being challenged by Dan Baker, and James McCue. In the city of Oneonta mayor’s race, Incumbent Gary Herzig faces write in candidate Don Scanlon. In the Town of Butternuts there are 4 candidates for 2 seats on the board, they are Scott Lueck, Paul Irwin, Donald Hunt & James Power. Polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Tuesday.

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds Sidney Center voters that that the polling site from District 1 & 3 this year, has been changed. Voters in those voting districts will go to the new Sidney Center Fire Department Building on County Route 35. More information is available 832-5321.

Otsego County Farmers will have 2 opportunities to drop off used agricultural film plastic for recycling under a special program offered by the County Solid Waste Department, the County Soil & Water Conservation District, Otsego County Conservation Association, and Casella Waste Solutions. Collection dates are this Saturday, November 11, at the Southern Transfer Station in Oneonta, and Thursday, November 16 at the Northern Transfer Station in Cooperstown, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. both days. The collection is free, but pre-registration is requested. Registration & more information is available at 282-4087, or occainfo.org/recycling-agricultural-plastics.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 23-year-old Gary Goslee of New Milford, Connecticut, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, following a traffic stop for speeding on State Highway 17 in the Town of Hancock. Goslee was arraigned & was later released on $500 cash bail, and scheduled to appear in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date for further court proceedings.

36 year old Jennifer Grenchus of Vestal pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide in Broome County Court on Friday. Grenchus was impaired by drugs on April 24th, when police responded to the parking lot of Tom's Cards and Gifts at 184 Main Street in Binghamton where they found that Grenchus hit 47 year old Ronald Richardson of Binghamton along Main Street and dragged his body underneath for several yards, before she turned into Tom's parking lot, Richardson died at the scene. Grenchus will be sentenced February 6.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31 year old Johnny Moxham of Delhi for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and criminal possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop in the Village of Delhi. Moxham is accused of possessing heroin while driving without a license as well as operating a vehicle with a loud exhaust & an unsafe tire. Moxham was released on tickets returnable to Delhi Town Court at a later date.

Oneonta Police Detectives arrested a 52- year-old man from New Rochelle Thursday afternoon following a 2-month investigation into narcotics trafficking. Search warrants were obtained for the suspect's person and for an 85 Ford Avenue. The suspect was transported to the City's Public Safety Building. A 2nd warrant was served that permitted officers to conduct a body search, the suspect became combative, officers observed that the suspect placed a substance believed to be cocaine in his mouth, which was swallowed after a struggle with 4 officers. EMT’s responded, the suspect was taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta, where he died at 7:40 PM. The body was taken to Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton for an autopsy and toxicology screening. The suspect's name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The incident remains under investigation by the Oneonta Police Department under the supervision of the Otsego County District Attorney's Office.

Officials at SUNY Broome have confirmed that freshman Miranda Gifford of Rome, has died from injuries she sustained in a car crash on State Route 12 in Oxford Monday. The Chenango County Sheriff's Office said Gifford veered in to oncoming traffic around 12:00 noon & struck a truck operated by Danny Hall of Barton. Gifford was extricated from her vehicle and airlifted to University Hospital in Syracuse, where she died Wednesday afternoon. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Gifford was enrolled at SUNY Broome, they are offering counseling for students affected by Gifford’s death.

Residents are reminded to set all clocks back 1 hour at bedtime Saturday night. Area Fire departments also remind residents to change their batteries in all smoke alarms & test them to make sure that they will work in case of a fire.

Tri-County Tea Party Patriots will hold a meeting today starting at 7:00 PM in the Bainbridge Town Hall in the First Floor Meeting Room. There will be an explanation of the three NY State Ballot Proposals that will be voted on November 7th. including the vote on a NY State Constitutional Convention. A presentation by featured speaker George Phillips from Reclaim New York is also planned, there will be refreshments available. It is free to attend and open to the public.

The Murder trial of Joshua Underwood will begin on December 4th in Otsego County Court. Underwood is accused of killing 52 year Mark Morrison of Oneonta on January 1st at Underwood's Main Street Oneonta Apartment, and initially trying to cover up the fire by starting a fire that did not spread. Underwood has been held in the Otsego County jail on $100,000 bail since turning himself into police shortly after Morrison’s death.

State Police arrested 39-year-old Bradley Branagan of South Otselic for Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .16%, Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident and other traffic violations. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to a 1- vehicle accident with injuries on County Road 42, in the Town of Pharsalia, where Branagan crashed into a ditch and the left the scene without reporting it. He was located at his home and refused medical attention for his minor injuries. Branagan was issued tickets to appear in the Town of Pharsalia Court on November 9th.

ACHIEVE Broome-Chenango-Tioga will welcome the public to visit their Chenango Day Habilitation facility at 214 County Route 44, Norwich today. Refreshments will be provided by Canasawacta Country Club and an introduction to ACHIEVE will be held, the event will be held from 5:30pm to 7:30 pm.

Governor Cuomo today announced the state has completed work on 80 bridges in its 542 million Empire Bridge program. The program is administered by the State DOT and includes replacing 100 aging & vulnerable structures across the state to make them more resilient against extreme weather. In Delaware County, completed bridges include the Route 97 bridge over the Pea Brook in Hancock, the Route 10 bridge over Platner Brook in Delhi, & the route 26 Bridge over the Tioughnioga River in Whitney Point.

The Delaware County Board of elections will be open extra hours again this Saturday in Delhi. The office will be open for Absentee Ballot voting from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. The General Election voting day will be Tuesday Novermber 7th.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department responded to the report of a motorcycle & pickup truck crash Saturday afternoon on State Route 80 in the Town of Edmeston. 47 year old Sean Dill of Garratsville was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck by a pickup truck driven by 25 year old Matthew Anderson of Elmsford. Anderson allegedly made a left hand turn onto County Route 49, into the path of Dill’s motorcycle. Dill took evasive action, causing him to be ejected and be struck by the vehicle. Elmsford was issues a traffic ticket for failure to yield the right of way while making a left hand turn. The investigation is continuing.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 43 year old Jason Wright of Oneonta, for Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Public Lewdness. Troopers responded to a report of a naked man exposing himself from an apartment on Chestnut Street, Wright is accused of exposing himself in a lewd manner while standing near a window, he was also found to unlawfully possess a handgun inside the apartment. Wright was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 property bond.

State Police arrested 28 year old Jonathan Holt of Brooksville, Maine for Criminal Possession of Marihuana and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Troopers conducted a traffic stop of a 2005 Honda CRV, which was observed speeding on I-88 in the Town of Milford. The vehicle was searched after troopers detected the odor of Marijuana, with a passenger, Holt allegedly possessing over one pound of marihuana, plus hashish and hallucinogenic mushrooms. Holt was arraigned in the Town of Milford Court and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 property bond.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will honor their annual winners of the Citizen of the Year & Business of the Year Awards. This year’s Citizen of the Year is June White, who has been involved in many area events in Bainbridge:

(June White 9-27-17)

The Business of the Year is Snips & Snails Consignment shop, owned by Lori McGraw:

(Lori McGraw 10-27-17)

The annual dinner & awards ceremony will be held at the Sundown Golf & county Club in Guilford Saturday night at 6:00 PM.

Broadway in Binghamton presents "A Gentleman's Guide To Murder" for 2 performances this Sunday at 3:00PM & 7:30PM at the Broome County Forum in Binghamton. Tina Niles from NAC Entertainment explains:

(Tina Niles 10-27-17)

Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com or at 1-800-745-3000.

The National Drug Take-Back Day will be tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Residents can dispose of old and unused medicines, in their original containers at various locations, including the Sidney Police Department, Norwich City Police Department, Oneonta City Police, The Bainbridge Town Hall, and at the Otsego, Chenango & Broome County Sheriff's Departments.

Delaware County Board of Elections reminds voters that absentee ballot applications can be picked up at their office in Delhi, or downloaded from their website. The Board of Elections will also be opened on this Saturday & Saturday November 4th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon for absentee voting. Also, the board reminds Sidney Center voters that the polling site from District 1 & 3 Voters has been changed to the new Sidney center Fire Department Building on County Route 35. More information is available 832-5321.

The Chenango Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition in collaboration with The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office & The Norwich City Police Department will hold 3 National Drug Take-Back Month Events this Saturday. The events will be held between 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM at the Norwich Police Department at 18 East Main Street, the Bainbridge Town Hall at 33 West Main Street & the Smyrna Town Hall at 7 East Main Street. Unwanted or expired medications will be accepted at the event, organizers remind those bringing in the unwanted meds, to have them in their original containers.

Governor Cuomo has vetoed a bill that would ban gravity knives. The Governor stated that overly broad language in the legislation would have applied to too many knives. A compromise on the bill failed to be passed in the final days of the 2017 session of the legislature in Albany, Cuomo said that bill approved by lawmakers was not a sufficient improvement from a previous plan that tightened up the definition of a “gravity knife.” The proposed compromise by the governor’s office would have addressed issues raise by police departments and added protections for workers who carrying knives as part of their jobs.

ACHIEVE Broome-Chenango-Tioga welcomes the community to visit their Chenango Day Habilitation facility, at 214 County Route 44 in Norwich on Tuesday November 2nd for light refreshments provided by Canasawacta Country Club and an introduction to ACHIEVE and the services they provide.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau the 62nd Annual Meeting is starting at 6:30 PM tonight at the Silo Restaurant in Greene. State Senator Fred Akshar, a representative from Senator Seward’s office and Assemblyman Cliff Crouch have been invited.

The Chenango County Health Department announces another Flu Vaccination Clinic to be held today. The Clinic will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Bainbridge Firehouse. Registrations or more information is available at 337-1660.

State Senator Fred Akshar & Assembly Members Donna Lupardo and Cliff Crouch will hold a public Town Hall Meeting to discuss the repurposing of the Broome Developmental Center to provide substance abuse treatment to individuals struggling with addiction. Officials from the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, Syracuse Behavioral Health, Broome County Department of Social Services and the Broome County Health Department will answer questions and address concerns related to the repurposing project. The Meeting will be held on Thursday, October 26th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Chenango Valley High School at 221 Chenango Bridge Rd.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 36-year-old Harold Wilson of North Branch for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle. Wilson was observed traveling on State Highway 206 in the Town of Colchester at a high rate of speed where he was stopped, Deputies determined that Wilson was driving with 13 active suspensions, he was arraigned in the Town of Colchester Court, he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $750 cash bail or $2,500 secured bond.

Governor Cuomo announced more than $3.7 million in grants to help further reduce motor vehicle theft and insurance fraud.. Police departments, sheriffs' offices and district attorneys' offices will share the funding for anti-theft and anti-fraud training programs to law enforcement professionals. The grants are awarded by the state's Motor Vehicle Theft and Insurance Fraud Prevention program, the state Division of Criminal Justice Services provides staff to the board and administers the grant program.

The Chenango County Health department & the Chenango County Area Office on aging are co-sponsoring a flu clinic today in Oxford. The clinic will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Oxford Firehouse, more information & registration is available at 337-1660.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Department Investigators & Probation Officers searched a residence in the Village of Walton, occupied by 28 year old Melissa Brannock & 30 year old Robert Robertson. Both were taken into custody by Delaware County Probation Officers and charged with Violation of Probation. A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of a hypodermic needle containing Heroin. Today, Deputies arrested Brannock and Robertson at the Jail for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument; they will be arraigned in the Village of Walton Court at a later time.

Oneonta City Police arrested 33-year-old Christopher Hooper of Oneonta on 2 counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance, for the alleged sale of cocaine, Hooper was arrested without incident; he was arraigned in Otsego County Court and was sent to the Otsego County Jail on $10,000 cash bail.

On Saturday Oneonta Police Department responded to the 76 Chestnut Street to investigate a domestic incident. A 25-year-old female victim reported that she had been menaced with a loaded shotgun by her intoxicated boyfriend at their Main Street apartment. Officers responded to the Main Street address where they found 35 year old Steven Knauff unconscious, he possessed the loaded shotgun and a metal knuckle knife, and was taken into custody. Knauff was charged with the following Criminal Possession of a weapon, Criminal use of a firearm & Menacing, he was arraigned & and was held on $15,000 cash bail.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 41-Year-old Robert Aleksander of Delhi, on 2 counts of Criminal Contempt, for an alleged violation of an order of protection violation in the Town of Bovina. Aleksander was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance; he will reappear in Court on November 21st.

State Police arrested 48-year-old Gina Criscitello of Harpursville, Friday for Felony DWI, with a B.A.C. result of .13%, plus Aggravated Unlicensed Operation & other traffic violations. A Trooper observed a vehicle failing to maintain its lane on State Route 7B in the Town of Fenton. Criscitello is accused of driving while intoxicated & with a suspended license, she was arraigned & remanded to the Broome County Jail on $1,000 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo today announced a series of measures aimed at increasing organ donation in New York State. The actions include signing an Executive Order that directs the State Health Department to work with all state agencies to provide the public with additional opportunities to become an organ donor through the new Donate Life Registry. Governor Cuomo also signed legislation making "Lauren's Law" permanent in New York State, and an updated, state-of-the-art Donate Life Registry launched to streamline the organ donor registration process.

A lower level State Appeals Court has affirmed the decision of the State Court of Appeals, where convicted murderer Ganesh Ramsaran of New Berlin will NOT get a new trial. Ramsaran was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison after being convicted in Chenango County Court in 2014 of killing his wife, Jennifer. The state Appellate Division Third Department granted Ramsaran a new trial in 2016, The State Court of Appeals reversed that decision earlier this year, the case was returned to the appellate court, they affirmed the Court of Appeals ruling today.

Governor Cuomo today reminded New York State residents that this Friday, October 13, is the last day to register to be eligible to vote in next month's general election. Applications must be postmarked no later than October 13 and received by the New York State Board of Elections no later than October 18. New Yorkers can easily apply to register to vote, or change their enrollment information, by using the state's online voter registration application service on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles' website.

Broome Sheriff's deputies arrested 27-year-old Tajharay Pugh of Binghamton following a chase from Binghamton into the Town of Fenton. Pugh was charged with Unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, Unlawful possession of marijuana, Resisting arrest, Reckless driving and multiple traffic violations. Deputies reported that Pugh wouldn't pull over when deputies tried to stop his vehicle on Henry Street in Binghamton Saturday night, he was chased into the town of Fenton where he exited the vehicle and attempted to flea on foot & was tased. Pugh faces court action shortly.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 31-year-old Danielle Lister of Walton, for 1st degree Identity Theft, 3rd degree Grand Larceny, & Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification. Lister is accused of fraudulently presenting herself as another person, fraudulently opening financial accounts using the victim’s personal identification information and using the victim’s existing financial accounts to obtain goods and services totaling more than $3,000. Lister was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1,000 cash bail pending further court proceedings.

The City of Oneonta today announced a revised Brush & Yard Waste collection schedule. The Department of Public Service will conduct curbside residential brush pickup in Wards 1-4 the week of October 16th and Wards 5-8, the week of October 23rd alternating each week through November. Officials ask city residents to place brush and yard waste at the curb by 7:00am on Monday of your scheduled week.

On Friday, Delaware County Sheriff’s Investigators assisted State Parole Officers and Delaware County Probation Officers with the search of a residence in the Village of Delhi. Officers found 24 year old Harry Ramirez of Delhi, in possession of a quantity of cocaine and narcotics packaging material, as well as $3250 in cash he was taken into custody by Parole Officers and remanded to the Delaware County Jail as a Parole Violator. On Tuesday, Sheriff’s Investigators arrested Ramirez at the Jail and charged him with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Ramirez was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail with no bail. Additional charges are expected at a later time, pending laboratory analysis of the substances seized.

Governor Cuomo today announced 169 conditional awards to agencies in 47 counties across the state, that will provide support services and operating funding for at least 1,200 units of supportive housing for homeless persons with special needs, conditions or other challenges. The awards are part of the $2.6 Billion, 5-Year plan to develop 6,000 units of Supportive Housing, in the Southern Tier, funding will go to the YWCA Binghamton, Family Enrichment Network in Broome County & Catholic Charities of Chenango County

Chenango County Sheriff's department arrested 65-year-old Edith Butler of Bainbridge for leaving a companion animal inside a vehicle during extreme conditions at a Norwich business. Deputies responded to find 2 dogs locked inside a car with insufficient ventilation for about 90 minutes. The dogs were then removed from the vehicle and appeared to be in good health. Butler was issued an appearance ticket for a later date in the Town of Norwich Court.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34-year-old Shane Karika of Castle Creek, after Deputies responded on October 5th, to the report of a pick up truck stuck on Railroad Tracks in the town of Fenton. The truck had been reported stolen from a business in the Town of Vestal on September 17th, Witnesses reported that a male had walked away from the truck and down the tracks. Deputies located Karika, he was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, and he was turned over to the Vestal Police Department for further investigation & possible additional charges.

Vestal Police arrested a Mount Upton man Tuesday following a complaint of a burglary at a Vestal home in August. 31 year old Bryan Vasseur of Mount Upton is accused of acting as a real estate agent when he illegally entered the house, and leased the propoerty, while receiving a fee. Vasseur was charged with 3rd degree burglary & 4th degree Grand Larceny, he was arraigned in Town of Vestal Court Tuesday and was returned to the Broome County Jail where he was already being held on another charge.

Norwich City Police & Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies executed a 'No Knock' search warrant Thursday, police arrested 26 year old Todd Diamond & 24 year old Brittany Dunagan of Norwich for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Nuisance & Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Both are accused of selling methamphetamines, and that there was a child present when drug sales occurred. Diamond and Dunagan were arraigned in Norwich City Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail each pending court action on October 10th.

The New York State Department of Health and New York State Office for the Aging reminds New Yorkers should get a flu vaccination soon, to protect themselves and others during the upcoming flu season. Flu season usually starts in October and continues through May. Adults aged 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions, young children and pregnant women are among those at highest risk for serious flu complications, which may require hospitalization and result in a higher risk of death.

The Inaugural Season of the new Binghamton Devils will be this weekend at the Floyd L. Maines Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena. The Devils will take on the Bridgeport Sound Tigers Saturday at 7:05 PM. Tickets can be purchased at the Arena Box Office or at binghamtondevils.com.

Oneonta Police Department responded to the report of a burglary in progress on Columbia Street in the City of Oneonta, Officers observed a male and female engaged in a verbal and physical dispute, with the male attempting to leave with a 3 year old child. 29-year-old Nicolas Martinez of Oneonta had an active order of protection in place on behalf of the child; he was arrested & was charged with 2nd degree Burglary, Criminal Contempt, & Endangering the welfare of a child. Martinez was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance and an order of protection was issued.

The Broome County Sheriff’s office responded to the intersection of Old State Road and Bevier Street in the Town of Kirkwood for a motor vehicle accident. Deputies located the driver, 67-year-old Daniel Clune of Harpursville.  Clune was charged with driving while intoxicated as well as driving with a blood alcohol above .08%, he faces court action shortly.

Tomorrow is Primary Election Day, with a handful of races locally. Polls will be open from 12:00 Noon to 9:00 PM Tuesday, in Delaware county, Party Primary races will be held in the towns of Andes, Walton & Hancock, Chenango County has Primary elections in Afton, North Norwich, Norwich, Plymouth, Sherburne & Smyrna. Otsego County has Primary races in the towns of Butternuts, Hartwick, Middlefield, Morris & Richfield.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 39-year-old Chad Guthrie of Brewerton for DWI, after Guthrie was observed traveling at a high rate of speed on State Highway 10 in the Town of Walton. Guthrie was arrested & was processed and released with an appearance ticket for a later date in the Town of Walton Court.

State Police arrested 47-year-old Leslie Brewer of Oxford for 3rd Degree Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child & Trespass. The arrest occurred after Troopers were advised of an incident that occurred outside a home in the Town of McDonough, Brewer allegedly threatened a man who was outside with his young child & struck another person in the face causing physical injury. Brewer was located by the Norwich Police; He was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 property bond.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Department arrested 37-year-old Eric Carpenter of Plymouth for Harassment for allegedly subjecting 2 victims to physical contact during a Domestic Dispute in the Town of Plymouth. Carpenter was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on bail pending future court action.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Town of Sherburne Man for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Promoting Prison Contraband. 40-year-old Nathan Jackson is accused of possessing heroin while being detained in the Chenango County Jail; Jackson was sent back to the jail and is scheduled to appear in Norwich Court at a later date.

Oneonta Police announced that 3 men wanted for an April Burglary have been arrested. Oneonta police responded to a domestic dispute on April 22nd. 1 of the victims was pistol-whipped & was treated & released from minor injuries at Fox Hospital. 34-year-old Teddy Faison of Oneonta was arrested in Monticello, he's been charged with 2nd degree assault and criminal possession of a weapon, he was remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail. Also charged was 19 year old Brian Scott of Utica, & 19 year old Nelson Navar of Utica, they were charged with 1st degree burglary & 1st degree robbery, they both face court action shortly.

State Police arrested 28-year-old Dorothy Ramsell of the town of Maryland, for 2nd degree Assault & Criminal Mischief, after troopers responded to a physical dispute at a home on State Route 7 in the town of Maryland. Ramsell allegedly threw a coffee mug at her boyfriend’s head & a stepladder at his vehicle, which smashed the windshield. The victim was treated at Fox Hospital for head pain and a laceration to his arm, and then released. Ramsell was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego county jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 property bond, pending court action on September 12th. The court issued an order of protection against Ramsell on behalf of the victim.

Brandon Corey was sentenced today in Broome County for a knifepoint rape of a woman in the parking lot at Wilson Hospital in Johnson City in April 2016. Corey will serve 10 years in prison followed by 20 years post-release supervision, he was also ordered to register as a sex offender.

State Senator Jim Seward announced that $75,000 in grants he secured will go to local domestic violence programs. The funding was set aside in the 2017-2018 state budget, locally, Opportunities for Otsego will receive $16,000, Catholic Charities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties will also receive $16,000, Delaware Opportunities will receive $6,000 & Catholic Charities of Chenango County will get $5,000

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 40 year old Nathan Jackson of Sherburne for 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny. Jackson was arrested after he allegedly stole numerous items from the victims residence over a month long period, totaling about $10,790.00. Jackson was arraigned in the Town of North Norwich and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $1000.00 cash bail.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 36-year-old Seth Maki of Minnesota, with Criminal Impersonation; he is accused of falsely identifying himself to Deputies at the Delaware County Fair. Maki was arraigned in the Village of Walton Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $500 cash bail.

State Police arrested 28-year-old Todd Matias of Harpursville for Felony DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 1& several other traffic violations, after a trooper heard a vehicle with a loud exhaust on State Route 79, in the town of Colesville. The officer determined that Matias was driving while intoxicated, had a suspended driver's license, and an expired vehicle registration. Matias refused to submit to a breath test to determine his blood alcohol content, he was arraigned in the town of Colesville court, and was remanded to the Broome County jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 22-year-old Ashley Murphy, of Sidney Center, on a Bench Warrant issued by the Town of Walton, for failure to appear to answer a charge of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Murphy was arraigned in the Town of Walton Court and was released on her own recognizance and directed to reappear in the Town of Walton Court on a later date.

State Police arrested 46-year-old Wayne Johnson of Oneonta, for Felony DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, and Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Interlock Device. Johnson was pulled over for improperly working headlights, a trooper determined that Johnson was intoxicated, had a suspended driver’s license, and was driving a vehicle that was not equipped with an ignition interlock device. Johnson was arraigned in the town of Oneonta court and was remanded to the Otsego county jail on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 bond, pending September 12th court action.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold its September 1st Friday Eat & Meet on Friday, at 8:30 a.m., at the Sidney Elks Club, on River Street in Sidney. The featured speaker for the event is Bill Wagner, Director of Mobility Management of South Central New York, in partnership with Rural Health Network of South Central New York. More information or registration is available at 746-2281 or delawarecounty.org.

Governor Cuomo signed Briana’s Law that requires State Police and New York City Police Department candidates and officers to receive CPR training prior to graduation and every 2 years after. In 2010, Briana Ojeda suffered an asthma attack while playing at a playground, on the way to the hospital; Briana's mother was stopped by a police officer who was unable to perform CPR. Briana died shortly after she got to the hospital. The new law will go into effect in 60 days.

The Chenango County Department of Public Works will close County Road 38 between Hohreiter Road and Searles Hill Road, in the Towns of Guilford and Bainbridge today, between 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, for a Culvert Replacement project. Motorists are asked to seek alternative routes. More information is available at 337-1710.

The National Weather Service announced a Tornado watch for most of the WCDO Listening area through 9:00 tonight. The National Weather service defines a Tornado Watch when Tornadoes are deemed possible by the Storm Prediction Center;  where conditions are favorable for the possible creation of a Tornado. We'll have the full Tri-County Forecast right after this newscast.

Tri-Town Regional Hospital in Sidney will become a satellite emergency department under the leadership of Fox Hospital in Oneonta, on January 1st 2018. A certificate of need was approved earlier this year by the State Department of Health to bring Tri-town Regional under the operations of Fox Hospital, State rules stipulate that a satellite emergency department must be within 35 miles of an acute care hospital; Fox Hospital is 23 miles from Sidney while Bassett Medical Center is just over 45 miles away. The change will not affect any services at tri Town. Bassett Officials also announced a plan to apply for $25 million in grant funding to create a medical village at the Sidney campus, for outpatient and emergency care.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 56-year-old Donald Whitted of Walton for failing to report an address change to the Sex Offender Registry & for failing to release an updated photo, after he moved from his registered residence in the Town of Bovina to a residence in the Town of Walton. Whitted was charged with Failure to report a Change Address in 10 days and Failure to Provide Photograph, he was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash or $5,000 secured bond.

The "POW-MIA Memorial Highway" will be extended into the Southern Tier under legislation signed into law this week that was sponsored by State Senator Jim Seward & Assemblyman Cliff Crouch. Previously, the "POW-MIA Memorial Highway" which memorializes veterans of the Vietnam War, ran along State Route 12 for the Northern portions of the Highway, the new legislation extends the memorial highway through Madison, Chenango, and Broome counties to the intersection of State Route 12 and State Route 12A in the Town of Chenango.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39-year-old Travis Fletcher of Walton, on a bench warrant issued by the Village of Walton Court. Fletcher was arraigned at the Village of Walton Court; he was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond. Fletcher was scheduled to appear before the Village of Walton Court at a later date for further proceedings.

The State Labor Department announced that the Unemployment rate for July Statewide was 4.7%, up 2/10ths from June. Locally, Chenango County had 4.8% unemployment, Delaware County 5.4% & Otsego County 4.9% in July.

The State Department of Motor Vehicles has not done enough to prevent automotive repair shops and inspection stations from operating without valid registrations, according to an audit issued by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The audit revealed DMV has established little in the way of controls to restrict unregistered repair shops from operating, approximately 23,600 automotive businesses had expired licenses or registrations. Auditors selected 170 used car dealerships and repair shops with lapsed registrations and found 22% were still operating.

Governor Cuomo today signed legislation for additional protections for students and expanding anti-tampering laws to prohibit unlawful alteration of any official student record in any primary, intermediate, high school or college. The prior law prohibited the unlawful altering of grades, credits and awards on a student's record. The new law makes it a misdemeanor to knowingly alter any official student record, also those certified or licensed by the State Education Department who are found to be in violation of this new law would be subject to further disciplinary action.

The Chenango County Environmental Health Department announced that The Village of Afton has the best tasting drinking water in Chenango County. Afton's water may be able to move on to compete & win at the State Fair, where fair goers are asked to judge each year.

The Broome County STOP-DWI program announced that they would NOT be holding the annual Chris Thater Memorial Bike Races later this month. The races were held for 33 years, they were named after Christopher Thater, who was a 23 year-old cycling enthusiast and Binghamton University graduate who was killed by a drunk driver in Broome County in 1983.

Chenango County Sheriff’s office arrested 34-year-old Richard Tyler of Oxford for False Personation & Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle following a traffic stop in the Town of Preston. Tyler provided a false name and date of birth to the police, Deputies were familiar with Tyler, who was out on Parole, he was also found to be driving with a suspended license. Tyler was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $500 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to regulate pet dealers and crack down on unscrupulous practices in this industry. The bill requires incorporated animal shelters, rescue organizations and other non-profit entities that offer animals for adoption to register with the Department of Agriculture and Markets. The legislation fixes a loophole and requires not-for-profit entities to comply with all documentation and vaccination requirements for pets brought into the state for purchase.

Chenango County Department of Health announced that a free rabies clinic is being held today in Afton. The Clinic will run from 5:30 to 6:30 at the Afton Town Garage, more information is available at 337-1673 or co.chenango.ny.us.

State Police announced that an Otsego County teen reported missing since July 28th, has been found. 16 year old Alyssa Jones was located Thursday in Oneonta. Jones was reported missing after she attended a Laurens Music festival July 28th & did not return home, the investigation is ongoing.

The Delaware County Historical Association in Delhi is looking for individuals to be extras in a movie the museum is filming Saturday at 2:00 PM, at the Fitches Bridge Church on Route 10 in Delhi. Anyone interested is asked to call the museum at 746-3849.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds area voters wishing to vote in the September 12th Party Primary, that Friday, August 18th, is the last day to register in person at the Board of Elections or postmark a registration form for the Primary Election. Registration forms and applications for absentee ballots may be found online at co.delaware.ny.us or call 832-5321.

Norwich Police have arrested 2 people following an investigation of heroin sales. On Thursday, Norwich police arrested 34 year old Bryan Petry of Norwich for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Nuisance, and 34 year old Tiffany Walsh of Norwich for Criminal Nuisance. Both were arraigned in Norwich City Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail, Petry's bail is set at $10,000. Walsh's bail is set at $5,000. They are scheduled to reappear in the Norwich City Court shortly.

Chenango County Sherriff’s Department arrested 35 year old Misty Mojica of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after a traffic stop on State Route 12 in the Town of Norwich. Mojica is accused of possessing a controlled substance & items related to manufacturing methamphetamine were located within the vehicle. The investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected. Mojica faces action in Town of Norwich court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 17 year old Jason Terkowski of Harpursville and 17 year old Kyle Grose of Harpursville for 2nd degree Burglary. Both are accused of unlawfully entering a residence in the Town of Colesville last month and stealing property, which has been recovered. Terkowski and Grose were arraigned in the Town of Colesville Court and released on their own recognizance to appear in court on a later date.

The Broome County Emergency Services Dispatch Center received a report late yesterday afternoon of a possible drowning in the Susquehanna River in the Town of Colesville. Emergency responders were met by a fisherman who took them by boat, to 56 year old Joseph Kapral of Albion, who was not breathing. Efforts to revive Kapral were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation revealed that Kapral suffered a heart attack which contributed to his drowning, the death has been ruled as an accidental drowning.

The State Department of Health today announced a new set of regulations that will for the state's Medical Marijuana Program. The new regulations will allow for the sale of additional medical marijuana products and the addition of new courses that will allow prospective practitioners to complete their training in a shorter amount of time. There were 26,561 certified patients and 1,155 registered practitioners participating in the program. More information is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/.

State and federal crash Statistics have been released of the Counties in New York State with the highest motor vehicle crashes based on fatalities per 100,000 people. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that Seneca County had the worst numbers, followed by Greene County, Delaware County, Sullivan County & Wyoming County.

The Delaware County Fairgrounds are gearing up for the annual fair next week in Walton. Spokesman Jason Craig explains:

(Jason Craig 8-10-17)

The 131st Delaware County Fair will run from august 14th to the 19th

Chenango County Sheriff's department arrested 38 year old Mandy Martinez of the Bronx on an active Bench Warrant. Martinez was wanted by the Town of Norwich Court for failing to appear on in court to answer to a Petty Larceny charge from 2014, she was taken into custody & was arraigned & remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $500 cash bail. Martinez had returned to Norwich following the murder of her daughter, 11 year old Jacelyn O'Connor, and the arrest of 2 men for that murder.

Chenango County District Attorney Joe McBride announced today that more charges have been filed against James Brower & Tobias Rundstrom-Wooding, in connection with the rape & murder of 11 year Old Jacelyn O'Connor on July 30th in Norwich. Brower faced court action this afternoon in Norwich, the 2 men were charged initially with 1st degree Murder, and now felony "While acting in concert" in connection with the girls death. Both men are being held without bail pending additional court action.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office Investigators arrested 30-year-old Scott Hanrahan of Deposit, 29-year-old Justin Crandall of Sidney, and 27-year-old John Bolster of Hancock, for promoting contraband within the Delaware County Correctional Facility. All 3 are incarcerated at the County Jail on unrelated charges, they are accused of possessing prescription medication prescribed to another inmate, they were charged with 1 count each of Promoting Prison Contraband, they face arraignment on the new charges in the Town of Delhi Court at a later time.

Delaware County has a rapidly growing aging population, with an increasing number of young adults leaving the region, which is causing problems for the Delaware County Office for the Aging to take care of elderly clients. Office Director Wayne Shepard explains:

(Wayne Shepard 8-8-17)

Shepard said that anyone who wants to volunteer, or want to pursue a career ion helping the elderly, they can contact Delaware County Office for the Aging at 832-5750.

Governor Cuomo announced today that $1.6 million has been awarded to 3 emergency food relief organizations in the Southern Tier through the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, administered by the Department of Health. Agencies receiving these awards are required to devote a portion of the funding to food identified as helpful in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Locally, funding was awarded to the Broome County Council of Churches, they received $100,000 & Delaware Opportunities received $149,315

The Electoral Action Working Group of Delaware County Solidarity has organized a community forum Saturday, August 26th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM in the Community Room, The United Ministry of Delhi at 1 Church Street. Candidates who have officially announced their run for the 19th congressional seat will participate, including Jeff Beals, Steven Brisee, Dave Clegg, Antonio Delgado, Brian Flynn, Gareth Rhodes, Pat Ryan and Sue Sullivan. More information is available at 363-2752

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar announced that they have submitted their Shared Services Initiative Plan to the Broome County Legislature. The plan was initiated earlier this year when Governor Cuomo called on municipalities to share services to lower property taxes, if approved, this plan has the potential to save Broome County over $20 Million Dollars. The plan can be viewed at gobroomecounty.co.broome.ny.us.

Actor Kelsey Grammer announced this week that his plans to operate a craft brewery in Delaware County should be opening soon. The former star of the hit sitcoms “Cheers" and "Frasier" has owned the land in the Margaretville Area for over 25 years, the Faith American Brewery will be located on the site of a former dairy farm in Margaretville, the brewery is still working out some details related to pollution controls. New York State now has more than 300 breweries with more than half opening in the last 5 years, according to the State Liquor Authority,

The State Department of Transportation announced today that they are seeking individuals to apply for jobs online at dot.ny.gov/jobs/perm_positions. DOT Officials in the Southern Tier are looking to add personnel quickly following the closing this week of State Route 17 in Tioga County, where flash flooding took out chunks of land supporting a bridge that carried the highway over a bridge in the Nichols area, officials are hoping to have the bridge repaired by the Labor Day weekend.

State Police arrested 3 individuals after a traffic stop on State Route 41 in the town of Afton Sunday. Charged were 24 year old Cecily Choi of New Jersey, 20 year old Adrian Beall of Texas & 37 year old Jason Rodriguez of Brooklyn. All 3 subjects are accused of possessing numerous narcotics & marihuana, they were charged with 3 counts each of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal use of Drug paraphernalia, Rodriguez was also charged with the misdemeanor of Driving a Motor Vehicle While Ability Impaired by Drugs. They were arraigned in the Town of Afton court and remanded to the Chenango County jail without bail.

A Roxbury man and woman were arrested by Delaware County Sheriff's Office Investigators on felony drug possession charges Monday following a probation search that led to the seizure of approximately one hundred (100) grams of powder and crack cocaine, over eleven hundred dollars ($1100.00) cash and a number of fireworks. Sheriff’s Investigators arrested and charged 30 year old David Dykstra and 33 year old Lisa Skala on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Unlawfully Dealing with Fireworks. Dykstra was being supervised by the Delaware County Probation Department from a 2016 conviction in New Jersey. Dykstra and Skala were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $150,000 bail pending further court action.

State Police arrested 41 year old Steven Sapinsky, of New Berlin, 26 year old Sabrina Gray of New Berlin & 30 year old James Bailey of West Edmeston, for Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine & Petty Larceny. Troopers responded to a report of shoplifting from the Dollar General on State Route 12 in the town of Norwich, and then driving away, the suspect vehicle was stopped & troopers accused the 3 of stealing items commonly used to manufacture meth. Sapinsky, Gray, and Bailey were arraigned & were remanded to the Chenango County jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail or $50,000 property bond. Their next court date is pending.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were called to the scene of a Tractor Trailer; roll over motor vehicle accident at the intersection of County Highway 26 and East River Road, in the Town of Hamden. 30 year-old Nelson Perez-Aybar was hauling a tanker trailer, loaded with liquid sugar, he failed to properly shift down while descending the grade & was unable to come to a stop before entering the intersection, he attempted to turn at a speed of 20 to 30 miles per hour, tractor-trailer than overturned and slid into an earthen embankment. Perez-Aybar was not injured; he was issued several traffic tickets for Town of Hamden Court.

The State’s private sector job count increased by 23,900, or 0.3%, in June to over 8,079,000, a new record high, according to preliminary figures released today by the State Department of Labor. Since 2009, New York has added more than 1.1 million private sector jobs and experienced employment growth in 66 of the past 78 months. In June, New York’s statewide unemployment rate increased from 4.4% to 4.5% in June.

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer is calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to offer an extended level of crop insurance protection to New York barley farmers. New York State’s brewing and distilling industries are booming, but Schumer said that the Barley farmers should be granted access to the same federal protections that are available to farmers in 11 other states. Schumer's request to the USDA follows a recent success where the USDA agreed with Schumer’s request to extend a more basic level of federal crop insurance to 44 Upstate New York counties.

The State Office of General Services announced a public auction for state-owned property located in Broome County at 362 and 372 Prospect Street in the town of Dickinson. The Auction will be conducted at 11:00 AM this morning, the 2 buildings on the two parcels are being auctioned together as a pair. Complete details, including photos, legal and reference documents, and auction requirements can be found online at nysstore.com by clicking on “Real Estate Auctions.” The auction will take place on the 18th floor of the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley Street, with registration beginning at 10:00 AM.

The Delaware County Fair will have new attractions this year, Spokesman Jason Craig told WCDO about a special day on Tuesday August 15th:

(Jason Craig 7-10-17)

The Delaware County Fair will run from August 14th to the 19th this year at the fairgrounds in Walton.

The Broome County District Attorney's office announced that a Broome County Grand Jury handed up a 16-count indictment for 64 year old Ramadan Abdullah of Johnson City. Abdullah was indicted on 15 counts of criminal possession of a weapon, & Petty larceny, police seized numerous weapons from a storage unit & other proerties belonging to Abdullah last month, including pistols, assault rifles, thousands of rounds of ammo, several firearm parts and flak jackets. Abdullah was sent back to the Broome County Jail pending future court action.

Wayne Spratley of Greene is facing Hate Crime charges again, following an appeal by prosecutors to a Chenango County Court ruling to throw them out. Spratley is a State Corrections officer who was charged in connection with a July 2015 attempted murder of a black man in a city of Norwich parking lot; Spratley allegedly used racial slurs at the victim before the shooting.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 19-year-old Dakota Coffey of Walton, for petty larceny & criminal mischief for allegedly entering a Masonville stone quarry & damaging equipment. Coffey was arraigned in Masonville Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2500 bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39-year-old Matthew Maxim, of Margaretville for aggravated harassment & obstructing government administration following a report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Middletown. Maxim is accused of threatening to kill another person through a text message and attempting to obstruct the arresting officers by refusing to comply with police commands. Maxim was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 bail.

State Police announced the death of Trooper Joel Davis, who responded to a call of shots fired during a domestic dispute in the town of Theresa in Jefferson County Sunday night. While approaching the residence, Trooper Davis was shot once and killed. 32-year old Justin Walters, surrendered to other State Troopers without incident. Walters is an active duty Army infantryman who is stationed at Fort Drum, Police said that his wife, 27-year old Nichole Walters was also found deceased at the scene. The incident remains under investigation.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works announced that they will begin Oil & Stone operations on many county roads Today. Affected roads include county routes 41, 8, 36, 37, 3, 6 & 18 in that order. Oil & stone work will then continue in southern portions of the county on County Routes 17, 67, 20, 27 & 22, the project should take about 3 weeks to complete, weather permitting.

A combined effort by local and regional emergency preparedness officials helped the 2017 Gus Macker Basketball Tournament run safely. More than 7,000 spectators watched 330 teams play in the 22nd annual double-elimination competition, sponsored by the Norwich Family YMCA. The City/County Emergency Operations Center was staffed with Responders from the Norwich Police Department, Norwich Fire Department, Norwich Emergency Management, Chenango County Bureau of Fire and the Southern Tier Regional Incident Management Team. Beside minor medical concerns, the players and fans enjoyed a problem-free event.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30 year old Anthony Colella of Long Beach Wednesday, on charges of uninspected motor vehicle, failure to keep right, unlicensed operator, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of marijuana following a traffic stop in the Town of Middletown. Deputies allege Colella of operating a motor vehicle with 3 active suspensions of his license and for possessing of a small quantity of marijuana which was found on Colella’s person. Colella was later arraigned in and was released on his own recognizance.

State DEC Officials announced that CleanSweepNY events held in May collected a total of 75,802 pounds of potentially hazardous chemicals from 93 participants in Broome, Chenango, & other counties. CleanSweepNY is supported by approximately $2.2 million from several enforcement settlements in DEC's Pest Management program, to promote safe, legal, and proper disposal of unwanted and obsolete pesticides and other chemicals, including elemental mercury. The collection events netted 33,663 pounds of pesticides, 15,642 pounds of school chemicals, 17,760 pounds of paint, 1,566 pounds of motor oil and other liquids, and 7 pounds of elemental mercury, as well as 132 mercury-containing devices, and 345 aerosol containers.