WCDO Radio News

State Police were dispatched to a complaint of shots fired at a residence on December 14th, on State Route 79 in Chenango Forks. 1 round was fired from a rifle through a window of a house with 2 adults and 3 children inside. Police arrested; 31 year old Joseph Spencer; 23 year old Chelsie Boyce; 30 year old Joseph Wolcott; and 29 year old Brian Stevens all of Binghamton, for 1 count each of Reckless Endangerment, and Criminal Mischief, Walcott was additionally charged with Criminal Contempt. All 4 were arraigned and remanded to Broome County Correctional Facility. The investigation is continuing and additional charges are pending.

Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig announced that a special meeting of the Oneonta Common Council would be held Tuesday at 3:30 PM at the common Council Chambers at City Hall. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the ambulance contract with the town of Oneonta. A previously announced Common Council Meeting for Wednesday has been canceled.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 34-year-old Edwin Palacios of Fredericksburg, Virginia for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a BAC result of .21%. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on Interstate 88 in the Town of Oneonta; Palacios was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1500 cash bail.

Investigators today arrested 18-year-old Scott Feiner of Roslyn, for 1 count of Sexual Misconduct, resulting from an alleged incident in the Town of Hancock earlier this year. Feiner is alleged to have had sexual contact with a14 year old camper, while he was working as a camp counselor at the Frenchwoods Performing Arts Camp in Hancock. Feiner was issued an appearance ticket to the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Chamber announced that the Fun First Night New Year's Parade would begin Thursday night at 6:00 PM. The Parade will begin at the corner of Elm and Main Streets in downtown Oneonta.

The Southern Tier & Central New York Regions won big again this year, when Governor Cuomo announced these years’ winners for the Regional Economic council awards and the Upstate revitalization Initiative awards Thursday. State Senator Fred Akshar comments:

(Akshar 12-11-15)

The Top projects this year include the 7 Hawley Street Redevelopment in Binghamton & the Southern Tier Health Sciences and Technology Innovation Park in Binghamton.

The Mohawk Valley Regional Development Council, which includes Otsego County, won over 100 million dollars Thursday for assorted projects. Locally, the Oneonta Rail Yards will be completely rebuilt, and developed, plus the Upper Susquehanna Agriculture Center will be built in Oneonta. Other projects include a State Route 205 Corridor Study, an Oneonta Airport Logistics Development Project, The villages of Cooperstown and Milford will identify the feasibility of a rail service connection & the ARC Otsego Community Residential Facilities will use Funds to make improvements to 10 group homes.

The Chenango County Law Enforcement Association will be hosting “Shop with a Sheriff” at Wal-Mart in Norwich, Saturday. Deputies will take children Christmas Shopping, who will be provided with money raised by the Association & donations from local business, individuals, and each Deputy. The children shopping with the Deputies were selected by each school district throughout Chenango County.

Chenango Arts Council will host an open house at their facilities Sunday. The day includes various musical performances as well as tours of their Art Gallery, Pottery and Ceramic Classrooms, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. More information is available at 336-ARTS or chenangoarts.org.

Governor Cuomo announced the winners of the Regional Economic Development awards and the Upstate Revitalization Initiative Award winners this morning, at an Albany Ceremony:

(Cuomo 12-10-15)

State Senator John Bonacic was pleased that Delaware county, which is part of the Southern Tier Regional Council, came up big today:

(Bonacic 12-10-15)

Locally, the Southern Tier & Central New York Regional Councils won the 500 Million Dollar Upstate Revitalization Initiative Awards, & the Mohawk Valley won the largest Regional Economic Development Award at 100.3 million dollars.

Convicted murderer, Ganesh Ramsaran appeared in Chenango County Court Wednesday, where he pleaded guilty to a bribery charge, for offering $100,000 to a corrections officer to assist in a scheme to break out of jail. Ramsaran was returned to the Chenango County Jail where he was being held for the murder of his wife Jennifer 3 years ago, he faces sentencing on the new bribery charge on February 3rd.

A Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy pulled over a vehicle for a loud exhaust early Thursday morning; the Deputy noticed a hypodermic needle in plain sight in the passenger’s purse. The passenger also provided the deputy with her sister’s name to hide that she was wanted on a warrant elsewhere in New York State. Melinda Sutton was charged with Criminal Possession of a Hallucinogen, 3 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Impersonation, she is accused of possessing mushrooms, cocaine, methamphetamines, & controlled substances. She was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court & is being held at the Broome County Jail without bail.

Chenango River Theatre announced that the New York State's Council on the Arts Theatre Panel has awarded the theatre a 3-year grant to support overall operations. The grant award is for $7,000 a year, for 2016 to 2018, which reflects a 40% increase over previous grant awards. Chenango River Theatre is the only non-profit, professional theatre in Chenango County to receive direct NYSCA funding, and one of only two in the greater Binghamton area.

State Police arrested 39 year old Christopher Crawford of Kirkwood for aggravated criminal contempt, after troopers responded to a physical dispute in the Town of Kirkwood. Crawford violated a court order of protection, he allegedly punched his wife, and the crime was elevated to aggravated criminal contempt because he had a prior conviction for criminal contempt. Crawford was located in the Broome County jail on an unrelated charge. He was arraigned in the Town of Kirkwood court and then remanded to the Broome County jail with no bail set.

Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting announced support today for Ulster County Sheriff Paul Van Blarcum, who last week called on his county's residents with valid licenses to carry their weapons publicly, in case of a mass shooting.   Sheriff Cutting said he supports the legal right of those with permits carry fire-arms to do so, to ensure the safety of themselves & their loved ones, but be knowledgeable of the laws of New York with regard to carrying a weapon and when it is legal to use it. Cutting becomes the latest New York Sheriff to support Sheriff Van Blacum's controversial call, following last week's San Bernadino California mass shooting.

On December 2nd Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 64 year old Timothy McGrath, of Roscoe, for driving while intoxicated and aggravated driving with a blood alcohol content of .18% or greater following a report of a suspicious vehicle made by employees of the Hamden ARC. McGrath was later released on traffic tickets returnable to Hamden Town Court at a later date.

The Chenango Arts Council will hold an open house Sunday December 13th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at their 27 West Main Street Norwich location.   More information is available at 336-ARTS or chenangoarts.org.

Broome County Sheriffs Deputies arrested 18-year-old Jenna Harris of Spencer for DWI after she crashed into a utility pole early Sunday morning, on Main Street in Westover. Deputies reported that Harris crossed into the opposite lanes, went over the curb and sidewalk, then hit and snapped a utility pole. Harris was arrested without incident; she refused to consent to a chemical breath test. Harris was released to appear in the Town of Union court at a later date.

Various Oneonta committees will hold meetings today. The FTO-CIC committee will meet at 4:00 PM, the Finance -Administration committee at 5:00 PM and the Parks & Recreation Committee at 7:00 PM. All 3 committees will meet in the Common Council Chambers in City Hall.

State Police arrested 45-year-old Michael Clark of Port Crane for criminal sexual act. On April 29, Troopers received a report of child abuse from the Broome County Child Protective Service, Clark is accused of sexually abused his 4 children in 2011, they were less then 11 years old. Clark was being held in the Gowanda Correctional Facility on an unrelated charge, he was arraigned at the Town of Fenton court and then remanded back to his correctional facility, pending future court action.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 63-year-old Patricia Carlson of Oneonta following a Motor Vehicle Accident, for aggravated driving with a blood alcohol content of .18% or greater. Lab tests confirmed Carlson's BAC to be .32%, 4 times the legal limit. Carlson was arraigned at Delhi Town court and was released on her own recognizance.

State Parole Officers & Broome County Sheriff’s department arrested 5 people on various drug & weapons charges Thursday at the Econo Lodge in the town of Dickinson. Arrested were 38 year old Terrance Brown of Dickinson., 27 year old Patrese Reid of Brooklyn, 24 year old Lauren Steckler of Binghamton, 23 year odl Breeanna Ortiz of Afton & 25 year old Gabrielle Bohn-Blodgett of Binghamton. Authorites seized heroin, marijuana, hypodermic needles, heroin packaging materials, scales and s stolen Pennsylvania State Police handgun. All fcee court action at a later date.

The Chenango Arts Council presents " Cocktail Hour: The Show" at the Martin W. Kappel Theater at 27 West Main Street, Norwich Saturday night. Chenango Arts Council Executive Director Diane Batson Smith comments:

(Diane Batson Smith 12-4-15)

The show will start at 7:00 PM Tickets are available at chenangoarts.org, or at the Box Office at 336-ARTS.

Chenango Memorial Hospital's Auxiliary will again host Breakfast with Santa tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the hospital's cafeteria. The morning includes a full breakfast buffet and free photo with Santa, courtesy of NBT bank. Proceeds from Breakfast with Santa go to the UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary to help support hospital services, facilities and programs.

O'Connor Hospital will host its 17th Annual Holiday Parade and Open House on Saturday at 11:00 AM, it will begin at SUNY Delhi at 2 Main Street finish behind the Senator Charles D. Cook county office building at 111 Main Street. Following the parade the community is invited to O'Connor Hospital for free refreshments in the hospital café. More information is available at 746-0591.

The next free Chenango County rabies clinic will be held tomorrow at the city of Norwich Fire Station. The clinic will run from 9:30 to 11:00 AM.

Foothills Performing Arts Center will feature "Ornament" tonight in downtown Oneonta. Foothills Director Bill Young’s comments:

(Bill Youngs 12-4-15)

The doors open at 6:00 with food available prior to the Show at 7:00 PM. More information is available at 431-2080.

Destination Oneonta Annual Tree Lighting Event is scheduled this evening from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Main Street. There will also be a Meet and Greet at the Welcome Center for the incoming and outgoing City, Town and County Representatives, Main Street will be closed beginning at 4:00 pm.

Broome County will have a new district attorney, after the absentee ballots were counted, and long time DA Gerald Mollen lost. Stephen Cornwell defeated incumbent district attorney Gerald Mollen in the November 3 election.   Mollen served as the Broome County DA since 1987, Cornwell will officially become the Broome County District Attorney in January.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the acceptance of Request for Proposals from New York State artists for exhibition in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries, located in CAC facilities at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. The proposal deadline is January 6th, 2016, with a jurying process occurring mid-January for exhibition in the following year. More information is available at ChenangoArts.org or at 336-2787.

The United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties is hosting a “Ladies Night Out” on December 1, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Council Rock Brewery located on Rt. 28, Cooperstown. More information is available at 432-8006.

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood before the holiday season is in full swing. 2 blood drives will be held in Delaware County tomorrow, one in Sidney from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Sidney Federal Credit Union, at 42 Union Street & in Delhi from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the State University Farrell Student & Community Center, at 2 Main Street. Those looking to donate blood can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment.   All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

Next week, a candidate’s forum will be held in the Smart Community Room at the Sidney Memorial Library, featuring candidates for the Delaware County Family court judge position, and for the 2 seats on the town of Sidney board. Organizer Amanda Heaney-Smith comments:

(Amanda Heaney Smith 10-16-15)

The candidate’s forum will be held on Tuesday beginning at 6:30 PM at the Sidney Library. The Delaware County Family Court Judge candidates are Porter Kirkwood & Gary Rosa, the 4 candidates for 2 Sidney town board seat include incumbent Bill Heath, plus Eric Wilson, Jeannette Hinckley & Loddie Marsh.

Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills reminds residents to be aware of a number of IRS scams that have been reported recently. The scams try to trick taxpayers into providing personal and financial information & may involve intimidation tactics to coerce victims into making false tax payments that are collected by the scammer. Sheriff Mills said that you should not share any personal or financial information with these callers, & that the IRS will never make such calls to private citizens. Those with questions can contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040, you can report scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1-800-366-4484, or the Federal Trade Commission at FTC.gov.

On Thursday, a Chenango County resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for falsely reporting an incident. The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 14 year old juvenile following an investigation into a bomb threat at the BOCES in North Norwich. The juvenile wrote a bomb threat on the wall of the school knowing that there was no bomb in the school, he was arrested and will appear in court at a later date.

Illusionist David Caserta to debut his Haunted Illusions show to Norwich at 7:00 PM. on Saturday in the Chenango Arts Council’s Martin W. Kappel Theater, 27 West Main Street. More information or to order tickets, visit www.chenangoarts.org or 336-ARTS.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies Arrested 26-year-old Amy Brooks of Sidney & 26-year-old Mark Rathbun of Franklin Tuesday. Brooks was tracked down by Canine Ozzie after she fled from Rathbun’s residence into the woods, Brooks was arrested on the Village of Sidney Court Bench Warrant for Violation of the Terms of her Release on charges of 2nd degree Burglary & Petty Larceny, she was additionally charged by deputies with Resisting Arrest. Rathbun was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration. Brooks was arraigned in the Town of Franklin Court & was ordered held on $7,000 cash bail, Rathbun was also arraigned in the Town of Franklin Court & was ordered to be held on $2,000 cash bail.

The Leadership Chenango Kick-off Dinner will be tonight at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, with Registration at 5:00 PM& the Dinner at 6:00 PM.

The Oneonta Police Department announced the arrest of 2 people on drug charges after they served a search warrant at 195 Main Street Wednesday morning. Arrested were 34-year-old Nelson Canales of Oneonta & 31 year old Jamie Osborne of Oneonta, for Criminal possession of a controlled substance, Canales was also charged with 2nd menacing. The Oneonta Police uncovered crack cocaine, prescription narcotics & 2 replica firearms. The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department assisted Oneonta Police with the investigation.

State Police arrested 26 year old Christopher Kuiper of Susquehanna, Pennsylvania for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawfully fleeing police in a vehicle, reckless driving and several other charges, after a trooper observed a Nissan making an illegal U-turn on I-81 in the Town of Dickinson. Kuiper allegedly failed to stop for pursuing troopers, he is accused of driving at speeds up to 90 miles an hour through the Prospect mountain work zone to State Route 17, he braked hard and his vehicle was struck by state police vehicle. Kuiper exited the vehicle was arrested without incident. Kuiper was found to unlawfully possess Percocet and marihuana; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County jail on $1,000 cash bail. Police stated that the pursuit lasted 4 minutes and covered 9 miles.

Governor Cuomo announced that over $32 million in federal highway safety grants have been awarded to 541 highway safety programs throughout New York State to improve overall highway safety and reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries due to crashes. Locally, funding will go to the Binghamton police department, Broome County Sheriffs department, Deposit Police, Sidney village police, Delaware county sheriffs department, Oneonta city police and the Otsego county sheriff's department. The funding was awarded to New York State by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Chenango Arts Council announced a 20% increase in funding from the New York State Council on the Arts for the 2016 Broome, Chenango & Otsego Decentralization Grant Program. $129,280 is available to non-profit organizations and artists who partner with an eligible non-profit for cultural initiatives in 2016. Funding is available for grants up to $5,000 each to support Community Arts and Arts Education grants in Broome, Chenango and Otsego counties. The deadline for 2016 grant application is Tuesday, January 12, 2016. Opportunities are for projects through December 31, 2016. More information is available at Chenangoarts.org or 336-ARTS.

The last day to register to vote in the November 3rd General Election for Delaware county residents is Friday October 9, 2015, it is also the last day for the Board of Elections to receive an enrollment change to be effective for 2016. The 52nd Senate District covering Deposit and Hancock has a 1-year vacancy. County Court Judge and County Family Court Judge and many town offices are up for election. Absentee ballots, sample ballots with any propositions for the General Election are available at the Board of Elections Office in Delhi, Registration Forms and Absentee Ballot applications may be downloaded from co.delaware.ny.us/departments.

Fire Prevention Safety Week is this Sunday October 4th through Saturday October 10th. The Franklin Fire department will hold their 2nd annual open house & public safety day on Sunday, from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 PM, with free refreshments, free smoke detectors & participation with the American Red cross, Delaware county sheriff's department state police & Bassett health care among others. The Franklin fire department is located at 351 Main Street.

Delaware County Public Health Services announces that the next free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets on October 14th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall at 140 Delview Terrace. This will be the last rabies clinic for 2015 for Delaware County; more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The Chenango County Council of the Arts will host a Drink Wine & Let’s Design workshop today from 6-9pm, Workshop fees are $35 for CCCA members and $45 for non-members, and includes workshop instruction, paint, palette, brushes and canvas. Classes are held in the Council’s art classroom at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. More information is available at 336-ARTS or chenangoarts.org.

The Catholic Charities annual Bands Brew & Barbecue event will be held tomorrow in Norwich. Organizer Robin Beckwith explains:

(Robin Beckwith 9-18-15)

The event will be held at the Chenango county fairgrounds beginning at 2:00 PM. Tickets are available at the Norwich YMCA, Hummel’s, Garf’s Deli, Commerce Chenango & M&T Bank in Norwich, or online at Brown Paper Tickets. Com.

The Chenango Arts Council and Wilson Ceramics will offer 2 more “Drink Wine & Let’s Design” workshops! Today from 6:00 to 8:30pm, a workshop, with the theme “Americana” is scheduled, on Friday, October 2nd; another Wine & Design workshop is also scheduled from 6:00 to 8:30pm, with the theme “Spooktacular Full Moon”. The classes are held in the Chenango Arts Council art classroom at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. More information is available at 336-ARTS or chenangoarts.org.

Aerial surveillance by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office, State Police Aviation Division and CNET, led to the arrest of a Walton man and seizures of marihuana in the Towns of Walton and Harpersfield. 53-year-old William Picinich was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlicensed Growing of Cannabis and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Picinich will appear in the Town of Walton Court on September 23rd.

The 19th annual Delaware County Clean Sweep chemical disposal days are scheduled this weekend. County Solid Waste coordinator Sue McIntyre told WCDO News comments:

(Sue McIntyre 9-18-15)

Businesses & farms dropped off their items earlier today; households will participate at their designated time tomorrow.

The statewide unemployment rate decreased from 5.4% to 5.2% in August 2015, reaching its lowest rate since May 2008, according to preliminary figures released today by the New York State Department of Labor. County-by-County breakdowns will be released shortly.

The Let’s Make A Deal Live Stage Show Is Coming to the Floyd Maines Broome County Arena on November 2nd at 7:30 pm. The show is based on the long time TV show, Let’s Make A Deal Live, gives audience members a chance to make deals for big cash and prizes just like on TV. Let’s Make A Deal Live in Binghamton will be hosted by Mark Walberg, Reserved seats will go on sale Friday morning at 10:00 AM at the Arena box office, Ticketmaster.com or at 800 745 3000.

Otsego County's annual Hazardous Waste Collection Event will be held today & tomorrow. The 1st event will be at the Unadilla Town Highway Building today & Waste from Otsego County small businesses is accepted and the 2nd event will be at the Meadows Office Building in Cooperstown on Saturday. No Pre-Registration is required, Saturday Participants are asked to arrive according to the first initial of your last name. More information is available at otsegocounty.com/depts/sw or by calling 547-4225.

Chenango County Suicide Prevention will hold a special event with documentary filmmaker Erin Davies tonight in Norwich, Spokesperson Ann Marie Troy comments:

(Ann Marie Troy 9-11-15)

The event will begin at 7:00 P.M. at the Broad Street United Methodist Church in Norwich, more information is available at 334-8244 extension 228.

The Chenango Arts Council, Norwich Business Improvement District, and the Norwich Rotary Club announced that the Chenango Public Arts Initiative begins with a Gallery opening reception today from 5:30 to 8:00 pm; it is free and open to the public. The Gallery will be open both days of Colorscape Weekend this Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and will stay on display until October 25. More information is available at 336-ARTS or email at: info@chenangoarts.org

A SUNY Delhi freshman from Wappingers Falls was found dead in a wooded area near the campus Tuesday. The unidentified student was found unresponsive by friends, he was pronounced dead at the scene by the Delaware County Medical Examiner's office. No foul Play is suspected; a memorial service for the student is planned on September 25th in Hopewell Junction.

Thursday's Primary Day elections have been tabulated, In Delaware County; The Democratic Party Town of Middletown Supervisor Primary was won by Marjorie Miller. The Republican Party Primary had Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Eisel winning for the Harpersfield Town Supervisors position. In the Primary for Town of Walton Supervisor, Charles Gregory defeats Bruce Dolph. In Chenango County, District Attorney Joe McBride wins the Republican primary, in the city of Norwich; Christine Carnrike won The Republican Primary for Mayor over incumbent Joe Mauirano.

The Delaware County Industrial Development Agency recently completed a renovation project at the Sidney Industrial Park to ensure the continued growth of Gravity Ciders. The company outgrew their Walton facility; they were looking for a new production and warehousing facility to keep up with the demand of their Awestruck Premium Hard Ciders. The IDA invested $32,000, to keep Gravity Ciders in Delaware County; more information is available at dcecodev.com or 832-5123.

The Delaware county department of corrections will hold the 5th Annual Andrew Brown Memorial Golf Tournament tomorrow, at the Hardwood Hills Golf Course in Masonville. Registration is at 7:30 AM, shotgun start is at 8:30 AM, and money raised will assist Delaware county residents being cared for by Catskill Hospice & Palliative care.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 63-year-old Stephen Scott of Schenevus, for Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .10%. This arrest occurred after a trooper responded to an Otsego County 911 report of a car crash on Interstate 88, eastbound near mile marker 67, in the Town of Maryland. An investigation determined that Scott was driving while intoxicated when he drove into a guide rail with his 2012 Subaru Forester and caused damage to both. Scott was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Maryland on August 25, 2015.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance kicked off the back to school shopping season today by reminding New Yorkers that qualifying clothing and footwear purchases are exempt from New York sales tax year-round. State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Jerry Boone said that in addition, in New York City and the eight counties listed below, clothing and footwear items under $110 are exempt from local sales tax year-round, included in those 8 counties locally are Chenango County & Delaware County

The Chenango Arts Council announced their schedule of shows for their upcoming 40th season. Chenango Arts Council executive Director Dian Batson-Smith explains:

(Diane Batson Smith 8-4-15)

Tickets or information about memberships are available at 336-ARTS or at their website Chenango Arts.org.

Republican area Assemblyman Cliff Crouch announced that he would not run for the State Senate seat vacated by the federal conviction of Tom Libous for lying to the FBI. Crouch released a Statement where he stated that he wished to remain in his current Assembly seat; former Broome County Executive & former state DMV Commissioner Democrat Barbara Fiala announced that she would seek the seat

State Police arrested 21-year-old Tyler Backus of Binghamton, for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, after Troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of a dispute with a man holding a gun in Conklin. Troopers observed Backus driving away from the scene, he was stopped and arrested. Backus was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set.

The Delaware County Department of Economic Development announced the results of the 2015 grant funding provided through the County’s Agricultural Micro-enterprise Program, which will encourage the investment of $625,000 and the creation of 28 new jobs. Local business receiving funding include Muddy River Hops of Sidney, which seeks to establish a New York State licensed Farm Brewery & on-farm processing plant. Also, Vulto Creamery of Walton will need to purchase a small custom milk hauling truck to transport the milk to their creamery, and create 2 more jobs, & Unadilla Hops will be opening a hop processing facility at their Sidney hop farm for the purpose of pelletizing and packaging hops for their farm and other local farms.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the acceptance of Request for Proposals from New York State artists for exhibition in the Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries, located in CAC facilities at 27 West Main Street, Norwich. The proposal deadline is January 6th, 2016, with a jurying process occurring mid-January for exhibition in the following year. There is no fee for submission, and CAC staff is available for technical assistance with the application process. Also, the Arts Council, the Norwich Business Improvement District and the Norwich Rotary Club, announced a “Call for Artists” for the Chenango Public Arts Initiative for this fall, Artists of all mediums are encouraged to submit applications by August 14 for a September 11th opening. More information is available at chenangoarts.org, or 336-ARTS.

the Chenango County Health Department will hold a free rabies clinic for dogs cats & domesticated Ferrets tonight. the clinic will run form 6:00 to 7:00 PM in the town of Columbus garage, more information is available at 337-1673.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is actively looking for a 16-year-old run away. Deputies responded to the Children's Home of Wyoming Conference in the Town of Fenton, where Mia Rosado took a bus to the Elmira, area - but could still be in the Broome County area. Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff's Office at 778-1911. Mia is 16 years old; light skinned Hispanic, brown hair & eyes, 5'5'' tall, 130 lbs. Mia was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt.

Tioga Downs Owner Jeff Gural is now the only one left with a proposal before the state gaming commission for a casino in the Southern Tier. Gural said that his plan calls for a 125 million dollar expansion, and should add about 500 jobs; a previous group out of Albany has dropped their proposal for a Broome County facility.

Greater Chenango Cares is a partnership with the Department of Defense to provide an opportunity for residents of Chenango County & neighboring counties to participate in a no-cost military training program July 13th. through the 22nd, for Medical, Dental, & Eye care, plus veterinary services. the Chenango United way is assisting with lining up local volunteers from many different functions during the event, Spokesperson Elizabeth Monaco explains:

(Elizabeth Monaco 7-8-15)

Monaco said that volunteer opportunities and sign ups are available on-line at volunteer.chenangouw.org. Appointments are needed for veterinary services are available at 334-9724 ext. 3, dental appointments can be made at 337-1643, more information is available at the Greater Chenango Cares Facebook page.

The Chenango Arts Council is launching the Norwich Preparatory Theater this month. Council Spokesperson Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O’Neill 7-8-15)

The deadline to sign up is this Friday July 10th, more information is available at the Arts Council at 336-ARTS.

The results of the Otsego County Conservation Association's "What's In Our Water?" program are in and, the overall quality of Otsego County's drinking water is very good. The report also results in a strong baseline of the water chemistry by which contamination can be detected. The full will be unveiled and made available to the public at the Otsego Lakes Festival on Saturday, July 12 at Lakefront Park in Cooperstown.

The Chenango Arts Council’s Kids Summer Art Camp for students going into 5th grade and up, begins today, taught by Matthew Wilson, who is a Norwich Middle School Art Teacher and owner of Wilson Ceramics. The Camp is sponsored by NBT Bank, Golden Artist Colors and Chobani, and meets in Room 107 at the Chenango Arts Council facilities at 27 West Main Street, Norwich.

The Oneonta parks & recreation committee will meet this evening. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM at the Common Council Chambers in City hall; the common council will meet next on Tuesday evening at 7:00 PM in city hall.

The US Department of Defense, the Chenango County Planning Department and the Chenango United Way have teamed up to bring medical professionals to the Norwich High School later this month for 10 days of free dental, medical, optical or veterinary services. Rena Doing of the Planning Department comments:

(Rena Doing 7-1-15)

Elizabeth Monaca of the Chenango United Way said that they are responsible for recruiting more volunteers to assist with all aspects of the event:

(Elizabeth Monaco 7-1-15)

Monaco said that those wishing to volunteer could do so at volunteer.chenangouw.org. Also, shuttle bus service will be available through area school districts to get patients to the Norwich High School for the Greater Chenango Cares event July 13th through the 22nd. Bus shuttle information is available at the Greater Chenango Cares facebook page.

Governor Cuomo today announced that $3 million has been allocated to the Cooling Assistance Component of the HEAP Program to help low-income New Yorkers who suffer from medical conditions aggravated by extreme heat. The program will provide air conditioning units to eligible households for the summer months. Prolonged exposure to high indoor temperatures poses health risks that disproportionately affect those already suffering from medical ailments. Cooling assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Delaware County residents should call the local Department of Social Services at 607-832-5300.

The Chenango Arts Council will hold their first "Kids Summer Art Camp" which is geared to students going into 5th grade and up. Arts Council Spokesperson Alecia O'Neill explains:

(Alecia O'Neill 7-1-15)

The deadline to sign up is this Friday July 3rd at either the Council office at 27 West Main Street, Norwich, by phone at 336-ARTS or at chenangoarts.org.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies participated in an aggressive driving enforcement detail last Friday, funded through the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, they arrested a Walton man in the Village of Franklin. Deputies observed & stopped a vehicle for following another vehicle too closely, they determined that 23-year-old Mark O’Neill of Walton was impaired by drugs; he was arrested and transported to the Village of Sidney Police Department where Deputies were assisted by a Sidney Police Department Drug Recognition Expert. O’Neill was charged with DWI, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Following Too Closely. He was issued tickets directing him to appear in the Town of Franklin Court on June 25th.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to a 911 report of a property damage accident Friday on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton. Deputies learned that the operator of 1 vehicle, 51-year-old Edward Wheeler of Downsville was intoxicated. Wheeler was charged with DWI, Aggravated DWI and Driving Left of Pavement Markings. Wheeler is accused of having a BAC of higher than .18%; he was issued tickets for Town of Walton Court on July 22nd.

Officials at the Delaware County Fair announced that all grandstand tickets for the 129th Fair are now on sale. this year's fair will features the Demolition Derby, The King FMX Show, NYTPA Modified Tractor Pull, & Country music stars Parmalee & with opening acts Jana Kramer, Lindsey Erin and The Jason Wicks Band. tickets are availabel delawarecountyfair.org or at Hodges Sales and Service in Walton.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the launch of Norwich Preparatory Theater which is a workshop designed to prepare young adults, ages 8 to 18, for a career in the performing arts. Council CEO Diane Batson Smith comments:

(Diane Batson Smith 6-17-15)

The 4-week program will be held on the stage at Chenango Arts Council, 27 West Main Street, Norwich, in July, registration and other information is available at 336-2787.

The State Assembly passed legislation to name a Town of Chenango bridge after fallen State Trooper Christopher Skinner. The Assembly unanimously passed the bill, sponsored by area Assembly members Cliff Crouch & Donna Lupardo, it passed in the Senate a few days earlier. The legislation has now been sent to the governor to be signed into law. Trooper Skinner was intentionally run down while conducting a traffic stop on I-81 between Exits 6 and 7 in Chenango in May of 2014, Almond Upton of Florida is facing multiple charges for Trooper Skinners death.

State Police at Norwich arrested 22-year-old Michael Verry of Greene for 3rd degree Assault, after Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a dispute at a residence on Crestmont Drive in the Village of Greene. Verry is accused of punching a female victim in the face, causing a jaw injury. Verry was arraigned in the Village of Greene Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of a $5,000.00 cash bail. The court issued an order of protection against him.

Governor Cuomo today announced that nearly $2 million in Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program checks would be distributed across the state. The program provides checkbooks to low-income New Yorkers age 60 and older to purchase $20 worth of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables from local farmers' markets. In upstate communities, checks will be available for eligible seniors starting June 17 at county Agencies on Aging.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Investigators arrested 30-year-old Gregg Johnston of Walton & 31 year old Chad Stafford of Sidney Center for 1 count of Criminal Mischief. Both subjects were incarcerated in the Delaware County Correctional Facility on unrelated charges, they are accused of intentionally damaging property at the County Facility. Both subjects remain in DCCF custody on the unrelated charges and will be arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court at a later time.

The Chenango Arts Council, Norwich Business Improvement District, and the Norwich Rotary Club announced that the Chenango Public Arts Initiative, Summer 2015 has been created to bring the arts to the public in everyday life. The Public Arts Initiative will showcase local talent and give artists exposure, be placing their artwork on display in the Chenango Arts Council’s Mariea Brown and Raymond Loft Galleries from June 26 to August 28th. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the launch of Norwich Preparatory Theater, an intensive workshop designed to prepare young adults, ages 8 to 18, for a career in the performing arts. The 4-week program will be held on the stage at Chenango Arts Council, 27 West Main Street, Norwich, New York. More information is available at the Arts Council at 336-2787.

On Saturday & Sunday, Military staff will be at the Norwich High School for the Final Planning Stage of the IRT Program “Greater Chenango Cares”, scheduled for July 13-July 22. Greater Chenango Cares is a partnership with the department of defense & the county to provide an opportunity for area residents to get military style training for disaster missions. More information is available at the "Greater Chenango Cares Facebook page.

Albuquerque New Mexico Police are searching for MMA fighter Jon “Bones” Jones in connection with an early Sunday morning 2-vehicle crash. Police reports said that a Silver Buick ran a red light & crashed into a vehicle driven by a pregnant woman in her 20’s who was treated for minor injuries at an area hospital. Police said that the driver of the Buick left the scene, returned a short time later and left again. Police found Marijuana in a pipe in the vehicle and paperwork belonging to the Broome County Native, Bones is considered the main suspect in the case.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Department announced that on Friday evening, 11 year old Nicholas Dungan of Hamden passed away at Albany Medical Center from injuries he sustained in an ATV accident in the Town of Hamden on Tuesday April 21st. Dungan lost control of the vehicle while attempting to make a turn, he overturned into a ditch, he was airlifted a short time later to the Albany Medical Center by LifeNet helicopter Tuesday afternoon with serious head injuries.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force and the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office concluded a month long investigation with the execution of a narcotics search warrant at 193 Matthews Street in the City of Binghamton. 26-year-old Christine Singer was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, 50 bags of heroin and an unspecified amount of marijuana were seized. Singer was also wanted on 3 active arrest warrants, on various drug charges from the City of Binghamton Court & the Town of Chenango Court, she was held at the Binghamton Police Department until her arraignment in the City of Binghamton Court.

The Chenango Arts Council announced the allocation of $99,400 in cultural funding to 50 non-profit organizations and artists through the 2015 Broome, Chenango & Otsego Decentralization Grant Program. An additional $10,000 in funding for Broome County has been provided by the Stewart & Willma Hoyt Foundation, bringing the total cultural re-grant amount to $109,400 through the 2015 DEC Program.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 51 year Donald Scott of Afton following an investigation into the manufacturing of methamphetamines. Deputies responded to 9 Blowers Hill in the Town of Afton after receiving information of a “1- pot” meth lab. Deputies reported that Lab equipment & chemicals used in the cooking process. The State Police assisted with the investigation & with the destruction of hazardous materials. Scott was charged with Unlawful Manufacturing Methamphetamines, he was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo announced that the state Troopers PBA, the State Association of Chiefs of Police, & 28 Sheriffs have joined the “Enough is Enough” campaign to combat sexual assault on the state’s college campuses. The Governor's proposal would codify uniform sexual assault prevention and response protocols for all colleges and universities in New York. Among the local law enforcement that have now expressed support are Broome County Sheriff David Harder & Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills. The "Enough is Enough" hotline is 1-844-845-7269; more information is available at ny.gov/EnoughisEnough.

There are tickets still available for the Canal Street String Band at the Martin W. Kappel theater in Norwich Saturday night. Chenango arts council executive director Diane Batson Smith explains:

(Diane Batson Smith 3-20-15)

Tickets are available at 336-2787 or at chenangoarts.org.

The Chenango Arts Council presents Scott Bruce "All Shook Up" tonight & "Chenango has talent" featuring Mystic Moondance & The Ryan Clan Saturday night at the Martin w. Kappel Theater in downtown Norwich.

The American Red Cross will hold 2 blood drives in Chenango County over the next 2 days. All blood types are needed, especially types O negative, A negative and B negative. Appointments can be made at the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. A blood drive will be held today in Afton From 10:30 AM to 3:30 P, at the Afton Central School, & in Greene tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the 1st Congregational Church, 28 North Chenango Street.

The next meeting of the Tri-County Tea Party Patriots will be held tonight at 7:00 PM in the Bainbridge Town Hall. More information is available at 764-8303.

Governor Cuomo and labor leaders applauded the State Department of Labor for its action to raise the minimum wage for tipped workers to be among the highest in the nation. Governor Cuomo attended a rally at the New York Hotel & Motel Trades Council, where he announced an increase in tipped workers wages to $7.50 per hour:

(Cuomo 2-24-15)

There are 229,000 tipped workers in the State, 70% are women. Tipped workers are twice as likely to live in poverty, & Restaurant waiters and waitresses make up more than half of tipped workers who do live in poverty.

Criminal Investigators with the Delaware County Sheriffs department arrested 34-year-old Bryon Byriter of Sidney for 3rd degree Criminal Mischief. Byriter is accused of intentionally damaging a window at the Delaware County Correctional Facility while incarcerated; Byriter remains incarcerated on an unrelated charge and will be arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court at a later time.

On Saturday, State Police from Binghamton arrested 33-year-old James McNeilly of Binghamton for 3rd degree Burglary, Criminal Mischief and Disorderly Conduct, after Troopers responded to a report of a suspicious man in the lobby of an apartment complex in Conklin. Troopers reported that McNeilly became irate; he is accused of kicking & damaging the patrol car's computer. A further investigation determined that the man had entered the complex without permission and stole keys from it. McNeilly was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set at this time.

Chenango Has Talent will be held this Saturday February 28th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Martin W. Kappel Theater in Norwich. Chenango Arts Council Director Diane Batson-Smith explains:

(Diane Batson-Smith 2-24-15)

The event will raise funds for both The Chenango United Way and The Chenango Arts Council. More information is available at chenangoarts.org or at 336-2787.

The Otsego county Chamber of Commerce will host their 11th annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser this Sunday. The Proceeds will be used for the maintenance of Wilber Mansion, as well as for art scholarships to Carriage House Art Studio. More information is available at can oneonta.org.

The Chenango Arts Council will bring Vivace Saturday night to the Martin W. Kappel Theater at 27 West Main Street in Norwich at 7:00 PM. Ticket information is available at 336-2787 or chenangoarts.org