WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-20-21

Afton Community Theater and Tri-Town Theatre have teamed up to bring Chazz Palminteri's movie "A Bronx Tale" into “A Bronx Tale: The Musical.” Cameron Kinnear & George Wells are 2 of the stars of the local production, they talked about the music of the production & their 2 lead characters on WCDO this morning:

(George Wells Cameron Kinnear 10-20-21)

Tickets are now on sale for 4 performances in the newly renovated theater at The Community Cultural Center 1 Bridge Street in Sidney, Curtain times are 7:00 pm this Thursday and Sunday, and 8:00 PM this Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $16 each at tritown.booktix.com.

Chenango County Residents are reminded that they have only a limited time to make any changes to their Medicare plan for next year. Nicole Ross of the Chenango County Area Agency on Aging explains:

(Nicole Ross 10-20-21)

The Medicare Open Enrollment Period ends December 7th, more information is available by calling 337-1770.

The New York State Department of State and the Division of Consumer Protection today alerted consumers about real estate and rental scams, in which scammers work to steal prospective tenants’ money when they are looking to rent a home or an apartment. New Yorkers claimed losses of over $1.7 million during the last 3 years from scammers, if a consumer has fallen victim to a rental scam, they are encouraged to file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection. Additional consumer resources on rental scams are available on the Department of State website dos.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Substance Use Task Force announces the launch of DELcovery, a multi-platform hub of information for individuals and families interested in recovery from substance use disorders. The project is a collaborative effort of Delaware County Public Health & The Delaware County Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council, an introductory video produced by VECC Videography debuted this week, featuring Jen Cutting, who told WCDO News about the project:

(Jen Cutting 10-20-21)

More information is available at their Website: delcovery.org, they also have information on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok, or by calling Delaware County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council at (607) 746-8300.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-20-21

State Police issued 17,797 tickets and arrested 207 people for impaired driving during the special traffic enforcement detail over Columbus Day weekend. The initiative began on Thursday, October 7th and continued through Tuesday, October 12th. Statewide, law enforcement issued a total of 38,255 tickets, including 828 for impaired driving and 10,593 for speeding.

The 2 Oneonta Mayoral Candidates will debate tonight sponsored by the Oneonta League of Women Voter's at 7:00 pm, virtually through ZOOM. Len Carson and Mark Drnek both currently serves as Alderman on the Oneonta City Common Council, they are looking to replace Gary Herzig, who declined to run for re-election this year. To access the link to the debate, go to lwvoneonta.org and through their Facebook page.

Chenango County Department of Public Works announced that they will be holding their household Hazardous waste collection day in August, DPW Spokesman Dustin Hendricks explains:

(Dustin Hendricks 7-30-20

Those who would like to register can call Hendricks at 337-1792, or email him at dhendricks@co.chenango.ny.us.

Broome County Department of Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today, with 12 new cases bringing their number of positives to 975.  They have had 66 deaths since March, with 770 recoveries & 713 are being monitored by the Department.

Otsego County Department of Health announced today that a bat has tested positive for rabies in the city of Oneonta Wednesday, 4 people were exposed & are undergoing post-rabies exposure treatments.  Anyone seeking more information about rabies can call the health department at 547-4230 or visit the County health department website.

Otsego County Health Department reported 3 new cases of COVID 19 today, giving them a total of 102 since March.  There are 10 active cases, with 3 hospitalized, 205 are under quarantine since March, 5 have died & 87 have recovered.

Chenango County Public Health announced that they are now up to 205 COVID 19 cases since March, with 7 deaths, 186 recoveries, there are 147 Active Quarantines, 1 Active Hospitalizations, and they have performed over 16,100 tests.

The State Health Department announced that 777 people tested positive for COVID 19 yesterday, giving the state a total of 414,370 cases since March.  There were 13 deaths attributed to the virus Wednesday, bringing the death toll to 25,145.

Delaware County received 1 new positive test result for COVID-19 Wednesday & 4 additional recoveries. The known active cases is 5, To date there have been 94 positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 38 people under mandatory quarantine and 6 people under precautionary quarantine. 4 people are isolated at home and 1 is in a hospital, 6 people have died and 83 have fully recovered.

The Cancer Services Program mobile screening coach will be at the Unadilla Bishop Lot on Today from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to provide no cost mammograms and Pap tests to women 40 or older.  Colorectal cancer screening kits are also available for men and women 50 or older and can be sent by mail.  More information or appointments can be made at 1-888-345-0225.

Nurse Practitioner Kathy Anderson of the UHS Primary Care of Oxford, spent 9 days in Honduras in 2018 on a medical mission, she will share her experiences with a special virtual presentation being offered as part of UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital’s 2020 Women’s Health Series.  The Zoom event will be this afternoon at 12:30 PM, to register call 337-4239 or email makenzie.ballard@nyuhs.org.

The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will host a Zoom Meeting tonight at 6:00 PM on A Trauma Sensitive Approach to COVID-19 presented by Amanda Martin Decker of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County.  More information is available at 437-4274; the meeting will also be available by phone at 1-646-558-8656.

Chenango County Public Health released their latest COVID 19 numbers today, they report 194 total cases since March, with 145 Active Quarantines, no Active Hospitalizations, 7 deaths, 168 Recoveries, and they have performed 15157 tests.  Isaiah Sutton of Chenango County Public Health said that a latest positive test showed that the individual was at 2 Norwich Bars recently, & ignored Pandemic protocols:

(Isaiah Sutton 7-24-20)

Sutton said that all of the local counties have been seeing increases again, largely due to larger summertime gatherings; he urges that people continue to practice socially distancing, wear a face mask properly & avoid large gatherings wherever possible.

The Broome County Health Department announced Friday that they are up to 906 positive cases of COVID 19, with 63 deaths, 695 recoveries and 610 are being monitored by the Health Department.

The Afton Open Air Market hosted by 6zero7 Advertising will hold their first free event of the summer tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 1386 State Route 7.  Melissa Matthews of 6Zero7 Advertising comments:

(Melissa Matthews 7-24-20)

Suburban Propane is allowing guests to park in their neighboring lot during the Open Air Market, social distancing & face mask wearing is mandatory.

Sales tax revenue for local governments in the state dropped 27.1% in the 2nd quarter compared to the same period last year, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.  Most counties outside of New York City saw an improvement compared to the significant drops they experienced from the pandemic in April and May; more information is available at osc.state.ny.us

State Senator Jim Seward announced that Diane Munro of Roxbury has been confirmed by the state senate as a member of the Olympic Regional Development Authority.  Munro has held positions as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, & while a Sidney resident Years ago, she was a co-founder of Sidney Area Youth Advocate Program, and the Tri-Town Boys and Girls Club, she currently serves the board of directors of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County, and is a member of the Delaware County and Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce, the appointment runs through June 19, 2024.

Governor Cuomo stated Thursday that New York State has one license for bars & restaurants, and people are misunderstanding the concept of outdoor dining;

(Cuomo food bars)

The State Police & State Liquor Authority will look into as many cases as they can of violating of the state laws, local police agencies are also being asked to enforce the law.

Delaware County received 2 new positive test results for COVID-19 Thursday and no additional recoveries. The known active cases in the County as of today is 7,   To date there have been 91 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Delaware County, with 56 people under mandatory quarantine and 10 people under precautionary quarantine, 6 people are isolated at home and 1 is in the hospital, 6 people have died and 78 have fully recovered.

Police are looking for a 93 year old Rockland County man with dementia, who may be driving in the local region.  Joseph Buffamento is described as a white man, 5'5" about 135 pounds, with gray hair, Brown eyes, driving a 2002 Toyota Rav 4 with license plate number 556823, he was last seen driving on Oquaga Lake Road at about 7:30 PM last night.  Anyone with information is asked to call 911.  (Buffamento was located safely at home Friday morning)

State Senator Jim Seward announced Senate passage of legislation to assist a retired teacher from Otsego County who was being forced to repay the State Teachers Retirement System nearly $64,000 due to multiple accounting errors.  Katherine Sweeney retired from teaching from the Richfield Springs school district in 2004, in 2018 & again in 2019 she was informed that she was overcompensated & had to reimburse the State Retirement System.  Sweeney contacted Senator Seward, the issue was corrected, legislation passed both houses & the bill will now go to the governor for final approval.

The State DOT is advising motorists that State Route 7 between Chase Street and Mill Street in the Town of Worcester, will be closed until approximately September 1 to replace the large culvert over West Hill Road Creek. Through traffic is being diverted to I-88 from exit 18 (Schenevus) to exit 19 (Worcester). Detours are posted. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones. Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

The Chenango County Public health announced their latest Coronavirus numbers today.  They are up to 125 confirmed cases, 103 people are quarantined, 1 person is hospitalized & there have been 91 recoveries, they have performed over 3300 tests.

Purdue farms of the state of Maryland is the latest business to sue Maines Paper & Food Service of Conklin for breach of Contract, for allegedly failing to pay for 1.4 Million dollars in food deliveries earlier this year, on top of another $4 million dollars in overdue payments from previous invoices.  Maines is facing similar action from 6 other companies that have been filed in US District Court.  Maines recently closed down their "Broadline" operations in Conklin & laid of hundreds of employees.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 47 year-old Lionel Simard of Davenport for possession of stolen property, he is accused of possessing license plates that were reported stolen from a parked vehicle in the Town of Davenport on May 21st.  Simard was issued an appearance ticket in the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

State Police, Sherburne Police & several other agencies, responded to a report of a person in the Chenango River that went underwater and had not resurfaced in Sherburne.  The New York State Underwater Recovery Team and divers and an air boat from the Chenango County Bureau of Fire searched the river, Shortly after 8:00 p.m., the victim was located & was pronounced deceased at the scene & has been identified as The victim is identified as 18-year-old Nicholas Russell of Smyrna.  Police said that Russell and 3 friends were swimming in the Chenango River when he began to have difficulty staying above water.  A witness attempted to assist Russell but he went under water and never re-surfaced.

State Department of Labor released local unemployment rates for April.  The number of private sector jobs in the State was 6,467,600, the State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased from 4.1% to 14.5%.  Locally, Chenango County's Unemployment rate was 11.7%, Delaware County 12.4% & Otsego County was 12%.

State Police responded to a residence on Spruce Street in the Village of Roxbury for a serious injury.   An investigation revealed that a 36-year-old male was slashed in the midsection with a knife.  The male was transported by LifeNet to Albany Med where he is in critical condition.  Several people that were in the residence are being interviewed and cooperating with State Police, There is no threat to the public. The investigation is ongoing and more will be released as it is available.

State Police issued more than 8,900 tickets during a special traffic enforcement period over Memorial Day Weekend, which started last Friday, through 3:00 AM Tuesday.  During this enforcement period, State Troopers arrested 203 people for DWI, and investigated 457 crashes, which injured 11 people. State Police responded to two fatal crashes during the weekend.

Delaware County is reporting no new case of COVID-19 today and no additional recoveries. The known active cases in the County are 13. To date there have been 73 confirmed positive cases,  with 30 people under quarantine, 5 cases are receiving care in the hospital, 8 are isolated at home, 4 people have died and 56 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health announced 2 more positive Coronavirus cases, bringing them to 65 total cases.  Both new cases were asymptomatic both worked in nursing homes outside of Otsego County.  All Nursing home workers are tested for the Coronavirus twice a week in New York State.

The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention invites community members to tune into the organization’s next meeting today at 6:00 PM through Zoom.  The presentation, titled “A Trauma-Sensitive Approach to COVID-19,” will be led by Amanda Decker, program director and prevention specialist for the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County. Call 607-746-8300 for Zoom instructions, it can also be found on the WCDO Facebook page.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 27 year old Dylan Katen of Windsor for possession and use of a credit card that was stolen during a burglary of a Town of Sanford residence in 2019.  Broome County Sheriff’s Office Detectives learned the stolen credit card was utilized at a Deposit convenience store in December, they requested assistance from the Delaware County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division.  The joint investigation led to Katen’s arrest, for 1 count of criminal possession of stolen property & petit larceny, he was arraigned by teleconference Friday night & was released on appearance tickets for Deposit Town Court on a later date.

The Broome County Health Department continues to see an increase in the number of Coronavirus case, they are now up to 513 positives, with 35 deaths, 341 recoveries & 361 are being monitored by the Health Department.

Chenango County Public Health is reporting 119 total positive cases of the coronavirus today, there are 50 people in quarantine, 1 person is hospitalized, there have been 5 deaths and 87 recoveries, and they have performed 3041 tests.

The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention invites community members to tune into the organization’s next meeting, on Thursday, May 28, at 6:00 PM through Zoom.  The presentation, titled “A Trauma-Sensitive Approach to COVID-19,” will be led by Amanda Decker, program director and prevention specialist for the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County. Call 607-746-8300 for Zoom instructions.

On Memorial Day there was no General Clinton Canoe Regatta but several locals decided that they would start at Otsego Lake and do the 70 mile course anyway; Duke Fisher was one of the organizers & Participants:

(Duke Fisher 5-26-20)

Fisher said that they echoed the time of the original paddlers from the early 60's, finishing the course in 11 to 12 hours.

The State Coronavirus numbers has had an uptick since the 1st phase of the reopening started, Governor Cuomo commented about the upstate county numbers yesterday:

(Cuomo CNY)

The Governor was also asked about the number of people who are still not wearing masks in spite of all the facts about their effectiveness:

(Cuomo Masks)

The State Health Department reported well over 362,764 coronavirus cases, the state death toll is over 23,488 since early March.

Delaware County is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 and 1 additional recovery. The known active cases in the County is now 12.  To date there have been 72 confirmed positive cases, with 26 people under quarantine,  5 are in the hospital, 7 are isolated at home, 4 people have died and 56 have fully recovered.

Otsego County Department of Health has received notification of 1 new confirmed positive coronavirus case Saturday, this patient did not attend the Unadilla Livestock auction May 16th.  The county has 63 total confirmed cases, none one is hospitalized currently, 57 have recovered, there have been 5 deaths, and 13 people are quarantined

The Otsego County Department of Health & the Susquehanna SPCA will continue to hold free weekly rabies vaccination clinics on-site for the foreseeable future.  The shelter is scheduling vaccination appointments for dogs, cats, and ferrets on Wednesday afternoons from 1-3 p.m. and on Thursday mornings from 9-11 a.m. Individual appointments allow for proper social distancing.  Registration is available by calling 547-8111, extension 108.  More information is available at sqspca.org.

Governor Cuomo today had former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg teleconferenced into his daily Coronavirus briefing, Bloomberg said that his Bloomberg Philanthropies, the Bloomberg School of Public Health at John Hopkins University, Vital Strategies & “Resolve To Save Lives” are teaming up with others, to for a "Tracing Army" to investigate those who came in contact with the latest people to test positive for the Coronavirus:

(Mike Bloomberg 4-30-20)

State Budget Director Robert Mujica discussed the issue of Child Care and summer camps, as Phase 1 is implemented to send back the first group of workers, who have children at home:

(Mujica 4-30-20)

New York State now has over 304,000 cases of the Coronavirus, with over 11,500 hospitalized, and another 306 deaths Wednesday bringing the state death toll to 18,321.

Chenango County Public Health announced today that they are up to 96 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus, they've had 3 deaths, 67 recoveries 7 people are hospitalized & 68 are quarantined.

Broome County Health Department announced that they are up to 282 positive Coronavirus cases; they have 21 deaths, 164 recoveries, and 194 in quarantine.

The Village of Sidney announced that May 4th "SPRING CLEAN UP"  Curbside pickup of bagged leaves, bagged lawn debris and brush must be out by Monday May 4th. Due to Covid-19 and safety, there will be no drop-off of electronics, appliances, metal and tires this year. Village residents may take electronics, appliances, metal and tires, free of charge (year round) to the Delaware County Solid Waste Management Center located at 32230 State Hwy 10 Walton, and they need make an appointment for drop off at 865-5805.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 38 year old Dennis Lafferty of Unadilla for violating an order of protection earlier this month.  Deputies received a complaint from an Otsego County domestic violence victim earlier this month, reporting receiving a phone call from the Delaware County Correctional Facility where the victim’s alleged abuser was being housed for the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, Lafferty allegedly violated the terms of an order of protection issued by the Hartwick Town Court last November, by making calls to the protected party following his incarceration on April 13th.  Lafferty was charged with 4 counts of criminal contempt & he remains incarcerated in the Delaware County Correctional Facility, pending a court appearance in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

The Annual Re-dedication Ceremony at the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park originally scheduled for May 23rd has been canceled for this year.  Also the June 7th Annual Sidney Veterans Memorial Park Association Golf Tournament has been canceled for this year, due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced today that its Board of Directors has voted unanimously to cancel 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Weekend events as a result of health and safety concerns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Class of 2020 – consisting of Derek Jeter, Marvin Miller, Ted Simmons and Larry Walker – will be inducted on Sunday, July 25, 2021, in Cooperstown, alongside any new members elected as part of the Hall of Fame Class of 2021.

Congressman Anthony Brindisi will hold Telephone Town Hall this afternoon at 5:00 PM regarding the latest developments on the coronavirus pandemic.  To receive a call, go to brindisi.house.gov/live or call (315) 732-0713.

The Dick's Sporting Goods Open has been canceled for 2020.  The PGA TOUR Champions event was scheduled for August 10-16 at En Joie Golf Club in Endicott.  The Cancellation is due to the impact from the pandemic in the state of New York.  Anyone who has questions pertaining to tickets purchased for this year's event is advised to contact the Dick's Sporting Goods Open office at 607-205-1500.

The Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will their next meeting today at 6:00 PM through Zoom.   Today's Presenter is Amanda Decker of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County,  more information is available at 437-4274 or 265-9273.

Delaware County Public Health received one positive lab report for COVID-19, which was transferred to the county the person resides in.  The Positive Results reported to Delaware County is 70, with 12 Positive Lab Reports Transferred, 44 have recovered, 8 are Isolating at Home, 2 are Hospitalized, 4 are Deceased, & 22 are under Mandatory Quarantine.

Otsego County officials announced that an auction on tax foreclosed properties will be held in Oneonta on August 15th. Information about foreclosed property can be found at NYSAuctions.com, click on Otsego County, specific properties can be located by putting an address in the Search box. The Auction on the 15th will be held at the Oneonta's Holiday Inn on route 23 Southside.

The Bureau of Chronic Disease, Evaluation, and Research released a report that indicates that the use e-cigarettes, vaping products, or Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems has doubled among high school youth over the span of 2 years, with over 1 in 5 youth reporting current use. LINDA WEGNER OF “Advancing Tobacco Free Communities Comments:

(Linda Wegner 7-26-18)

Wegner said that E-cigarettes contain nicotine, carcinogens and toxins and are not approved by the FDA as cessation devices, Health advicates believe that e-cigarettes may contribute various health issues later in life, and may serve as a getway to cigarettes. A recent Poll shows that New Yorkers overwhelmingly support a policy that would restrict e-cigarette advertising to youth under the age of 18 and over half support a ban on candy like flavors in e-cigarettes.

Justin Crandall was sentenced Wednesday in a Binghamton federal courtroom to 50 years in prison with post-release supervision for life, after he pleaded guilty to sexually exploited a 17-month-old child between December 2016 and February 2017 in Sidney. His wife Jessica Crandall was sentenced Wednesday to 25 years in prison with post-release supervision for life. Both pleaded guilty in October 2017.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce will be holding their next "Business After Hours" event This evening, the featured businesses this week will be Bob's Diner, Dexheimer Building Movers And Riggers & Payne’s Cranes; more information is available by calling the Bainbridge Chamber at 967-8700.

The next meeting of the Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will be at 6:00 PM this evening. The meeting will be held at the Track Side Diner in Sidney. Mary Rosenthal of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County & Megan Walradth of the Central Region Prevention Resource Center will be attending this evening's meeting

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will conduct the 88th annual Delaware County Dairy Tour. The stops on this free drive-yourself tour will include Granston Farm in Oneonta, the farm of Dan and Naomi Buel in Franklin and Creek-Crest Holsteins in Delhi.

The Delaware County Solid Waste Management & Delaware County Chamber of Commerce are holding an open house at the Solid waste center on Saturday Morning from 8:00 AM until 12:00 Noon. Solid Waste Coordinator Sue McIntyre explains:

(Sue McIntyre 11-15-17)

McIntyre also said that the department's ten-year plan is available for viewing & public comment, it can be found on the Delaware county Website

State Police arrested 24-year-old William Deluca of Afton for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and other traffic violations. Deluca was pulled over by a State Trooper form driving without a front license plate on East Main Street in Afton, the trooper detected Marijuana odors from the vehicle & a subsequent search turned up methamphetamine powder. Deluca was issued tickets for town of Afton Court on December 4th.

The State DEC is reminding hunters who take a deer, bear, or turkey to report their game harvest this hunting season. Hunters who fail to report their harvest can be subject to fines of up to $250. Reporting deer, bear, or turkey harvest can be done by calling 1-866-426-3778, or online to the DEC website, or on the DEC's mobile app, "NY Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife".

The start of the 2017-18 skiing and snowboarding season is this Saturday, with both Whiteface Mountain and Gore Mountain opening their season. Belleayre Ski Resort is scheduled to open Friday, November 24th. Every winter, skiing and riding at New York's 51 mountains attracts millions of visitors and generates $1 billion for the state's economy.

The Tri Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will present the full length of the movie "CHASING THE DRAGON" tonight at the Sidney High School. Coalition Spokesperson Lorraine Keckeisen explains:

(Lorraine Keckeisen 11-15-17)

Keckeisen said that Superintendents from Sidney, Bainbridge Guilford & the Unatego Schools are participating, there will also be representatives from Truth farm, Fox Hospital, Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County, M-Kat, SSAD & Yes Leads at the event, which will run from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM in the SIDNEY HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

The investigation is continuing as to how 2 abandoned rail cars broke free & rolled along dead tracks before derailing at State Route 7 in Colliersville Saturday. The trains cars derailed when they reached route 7, as the tracks had been paved over, there were no injuries.

The State Office of General Services announced a surplus vehicle, highway equipment, and miscellaneous property auction has been scheduled in Binghamton on Wednesday, November 15. Information on specific items and terms of sale are available at ogs.ny.gov, more information is available at (518) 457-6335. Next Wednesday Auction will begin at 9:30 AM at the Department of Transportation at 241 Colesville Road, Binghamton

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to end child marriage in New York. The legislation raises the age of consent to marry from 14-years-old to 18-years-old and amends the process to require parental and judicial consent for marriage of those between 17-years-old and 18-years-old. Previously, children as young as 14-years-old could get married with parental permission and written consent provided by a judge.

A bipartisan proposal to add post-traumatic stress disorder as a qualifying condition for New York's medical marijuana program has received final approval from state lawmakers and is headed to the desk of Governor Cuomo. 26 of the 29 states with medical marijuana programs allow patients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to qualify.

With Graduation parties coming up, the parents of students are reminded that it is illegal to provide alcohol to minors under the age of 21 in New York State. Justin Hamm of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County told WCDO News that "Social Host Laws" can make parents libel of alcohol related problems:

(Justin Hamm 6-21-17)

More information about social host laws as well as alcohols & drug abuse can be found at adaconline.org.

Governor Cuomo today announced that his administration has reached a 5-year contract agreement with the Civil Service Employees Association, which represents over 60,000 state government employees. The contract must now be approved and ratified by CSEA membership and authorizing legislation is expected to be passed before the end of the legislative session.

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for May. The State’s unemployment rate increased from 4.3% to 4.4% in May 2017, locally, Chenango County had 4.6% unemployment, Delaware County had a 4.8% rate & Otsego County registered 4.2% unemployment

Health officials in New York have detected the first of the season's mosquitoes with West Nile virus downstate in Staten Island. Officials at Cornell University advise New Yorkers to take steps now to protect themselves from the risks of mosquito-borne illnesses. Those who participate in outdoor activities should wear mosquito repellents, dump out any standing water in gutters, plant pots, tarps, buckets, birdbaths & children’s pools.

State Police issued 21,864 tickets during the June "Speed Week" campaign this year. The special traffic enforcement period to crack down on speeding and aggressive drivers was held June 7 through June 13, 2017. State Troopers ticketed 9,456 drivers for speeding, arrested 268 people for DWI and investigated 315 personal injury accidents, which resulted in 412 people injured Troop C troopers wrote over 1500 tickets during the Speed Week Enforcement.

The U.S. Justice Department reached an agreement with New York state to settle a lawsuit over voter registration opportunities through the State's DMV offices. Federal investigators found applications for New York driver's licenses, permits and ID cards didn't always serve as applications for voter registration, Under the agreement, New York will insure a voter registration opportunity will be included with all applications. Change of address information will also be used to update voter address information.

State Senate Leader John Flanagan said that his house will not vote on the bill to change requirements that would have made it easier for the vicitms of sexual molestation to sue their attackers. The proposal that passed the Assembly, and had the support of the Governor, would have given victims more time to file civil lawsuits, and would have allowed for a 1 year window for past victims to file lawsuits. The proposal had opposition from the Catholic Church and other religious organizations.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division responded to 305 Race Road in the Town of Greene for a narcotics investigation, they discovered 2 men manufacturing methamphetamine. Officers seized methamphetamine, scales, and packaging material & arrested 22-year-old Taylor Micha of Norwich and 36-year-old Paul Decker of Greene, for Unlawful Manufacturing of Methamphetamine, Criminal Possession of Methamphetamine Manufacturing Material, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia. Both were arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail, pending action in Town of Greene Court at a later date. The investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected.

A Job Fair will be held today at the State Veterans' Home at Oxford from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Professionals from the nursing department will be on hand to provide information, give tours and conduct interviews for RN, LPN and CNA positions.

A plan to permit movie theaters to serve alcohol is not expected to make it to the governor’s desk. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said that he opposes the bill on the grounds of public safety; he decides which bills are voted on in the assembly. Governor Cuomo pitched the idea late last year, as a tie in to the state’s growing craft beer industry. Under current law, a theater can serve alcohol if they also operate a full kitchen, or obtain a tavern license & only serve alcohol in the lobby. The proposal states that theaters could apply for a special license & local officials also support the issuance of that license.

The next Sidney Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours program will be held today. The event will be held at The Delaware National Bank of Delhi on Route 7 from 5:00 to 7:00pm.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 25-year-old James Blount of Walton, Friday on charges of failure to keep right, unsafe lane change, unlicensed operator, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, following an investigation of a 1-car accident in the Town of Franklin. Blount was later released on tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

The Animal Adventure in the town of Colesville named their calf this morning, following the end of voting at midnight Sunday. People who have followed the tail end of April the Giraffe's pregnancy voted, and decided to let Alyssa Swilley, the Lead Zoologist at Animal Adventure, pick the baby boy Giraffe's name, it was announced by their live stream that "Tajiri" was the name that was chosen, it is Swahili for "Hope". Animal Adventure's 5th season opens on May 13th.

The City of Oneonta Parks & Recreation Committee will hold their next regular meeting this evening. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Common Council Chambers on the 2nd floor of City Hall; it is open to the public.

3 people were arrested following a stabbing early Friday on Birdsall Street in Norwich. Norwich Police Department and the Chenango County Sheriff's Office found the victim who was stabbed during a fight; he was treated at Chenango Memorial Hospital & released. Arrested were 36-year-old Eric Carpenter for 2nd degree Assault & Criminal possession of a weapon, 22-year-old Brandon Parker, for Tampering with physical evidence, & 21-year-old Russell Button for Tampering with physical evidence. All three were arraigned in Norwich City Court, Carpenter was sent to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail. Parker and Button were each sent to the jail on $3,000 cash bail. All will reappear in Norwich City Court today.

36-year-old Danielle Dunham of Morris was arrested for allegedly bringing drugs into the Otsego County Jail. Dunham was charged with Introducing Dangerous Contraband into Prison, Possessing Dangerous Contraband in Prison & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, for possessing Suboxone as she was being brought to the jail on a previous charge. Dunham was arraigned in the Town of Otsego Court and is being held at the Otsego County Jail on $1,000 cash or $2,000 bond, pending court action on May 17th.

The Deadline for those wishing to compete in some of the races during this year's General Clinton Canoe Regatta is approaching. Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(John Harmon 5-1-17)

Harmon said that many of the familiar events will be back at the Regatta Grounds this year, and they will also be back to 2 fireworks nights this year.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies have rescheduled their Prevention Night for tonight. No alcohol will be served during the Rumble Ponies' game this evening, as they have teamed up with the Broome Opioid Abuse Council Drug Free Communities for the event. Tickets for last Wednesday's game will be honored tonight when The Rumble Ponies host the Akron Rubber Ducks at 6:35 PM.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department responded to 30 Classic Street in Sherburne to investigate complaints of methamphetamine being manufactured at the residence. Officers arrested Andrew Palmer they located several “one pots” & State Police teams responded to conduct a search and cleanup of the area. Methamphetamine & ingredients were recovered, Palmer was charged with Unlawful Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Unlawful Disposal of Methamphetamine Laboratory Equipment, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. He was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $15,000 cash bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Sunday t a 1 car MVA on Pines Brook Road, in the Town of Walton. Deputies arrested 22 year old Fawn Palladino of Walton, for Aggravated DWI; driving with a BAC of .18% or more, along with several other Vehicle and Traffic violations. Palladino failed to maintain control of her vehicle while turning onto Pines Brook Road; Deputies also arrested 27-year-old Amanda Dente of Walton, for Obstructing Governmental Administration, after she became physically violent with individuals on scene. Both were processed and released with appearance tickets made returnable to the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

Standard & Poor Global ratings has raised the City of Oneonta's Long Term rating to AA-, on the city's general obligation debt. The ratings review was issued in anticipation of the city's issuance of 4.2 Million Dollars in general obligation bonds next month. The improved rating will mean lower long-term interest rates & lower costs to taxpayers over the life of the bonds.

This Month is Alcohol & Substance Abuse Awareness month across the nation. Justin Hamm of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County told WCDO News of some disturbing statistics:

(Justin Hamm 4-19-17)

Hamm said that The Council is working with the Delaware County Stop DWI program to bring presentation to area schools, and they will be reviving the "Mock DWI" Crash demonstrations shortly.

The next meeting of the City of Oneonta's Planning Commission will be tonight at City Hall. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM in the Common Council Chambers on the 2nd floor.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Bell Hill Road in the Town of Delhi Monday, for a personal injury Motor vehicle accident. 18 year old Camron Cotto of Ithaca, lost control of his vehicle on a curve causing the vehicle to leave the road and strike a number of trees. Cotto was treated and released from O’Connor Hospital. 24-year-old Jesse-Lee Demarco of Watertown sustained serious head trauma and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, 20-year-old Alex Brimmer of Dexter sustained serious chest and head trauma and was airlifted to Bassett Hospital. 2 other passengers were not injured. The investigation is continuing, charges may be filed.

A State of Pennsylvania resident was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on a Fugitive from Justice Warrant stemming from two warrants from Pennsylvania. Michael Perry had been released from the Chenango County Correctional Facility on unrelated charges then turn over to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Department on the active warrant. Perry was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded back to the Jail, Perry is to reappear in the Chenango County Court at a later date to answer to his charges.

Former First Lady of Canada Margaret Trudeau will give the keynote speech at this year’s Women’s Fund Annual Breakfast on Thursday, June 22 at the Holiday Inn on Hawley Street in Binghamton. Trudeau’s speech will focus on her life as First Lady, Mother of current Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the loss of a son and her former husband, & living with bipolar disorder. Tickets to the program can be obtained at 772-6773 by June 15th for reservations.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced a partnership with Broome Opioid Abuse Council Drug Free Communities to provide a Prevention Night at NYSEG Stadium tonight. no alcohol will be served during the Rumble Ponies’ game, as part of this year’s “We Care Wednesdays”. April is Alcohol Awareness Month and Gates open at 5:30 PM for the April 19 game against the Portland Sea Dogs. Details of the event are available at bingrp.com.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Special Board of Education Meeting today in the District Conference Room at 6:00 PM to discuss negotiations and to approve the estimated statement of expenditure for the 2017-18 school year. The business portion of the meeting will start at 6:30 PM.

Broome County Fire Investigators have determined that it was a space heater that was too close to combustibles in the Skylark Motel Lobby in Vestal on March 14th, which caused the fire that, claimed the life of the owner of the Motel, 79-year-old Dick Patel. Patel & his wife lived above the motel office with his wife, investigators reported that Patel helped his wife get out but he could not make it out of the building, remaining occupants also escaped. The motel was a total loss.

State Police were dispatched to a report of 2 dead goats on property located at 674 County Highway 36, in the Town of Westford Monday. 45-year-old Stephen Pandelakis was charged after police discovered numerous dead animals on the property, including a dog, a cat, a pig, 2 goats, 6 chickens and 2 ducks. Pandelakis was charged with 2 felony counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, and 13 counts of Torturing, Injuring or Failure to feed an animal. Remaining chickens were surrendered & were taken to another person for proper care. Pandelakis was issued appearance tickets returnable in the Town of Westford Court April 4th.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies and Hancock Village Police arrested 33-year-old Christen Wrighter of Hancock Monday on a number charges, after a traffic stop. Deputies and Hancock Police started an investigation recently following a number of complaints of people who made advance payments to Christen Wrighter Photography for photographs that she failed to provide. Deputies observed Wrighter speeding on State Highway 97 in Hancock Monday evening, they discovered that she had her driving privileges suspended, she also unlawfully possessed a quantity of the prescription controlled substances, including Oxycodone. Wrighter was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, speeding, Scheming to Defraud, Grand Larceny & petty Larceny. Wrighter was arraigned in the Village of Hancock Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bail bond pending further court action. The investigation is ongoing.

Sidney High School and the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention invite Sidney, Bainbridge and Unadilla community leaders, business people, parents, students, and school staff to a free Spaghetti & Meatballs Dinner from 5:15 PM to 5:45, followed by presentations starting at 6:00 PM in the High School Auditorium. Coalition President Lorraine Keckeisen comments:

(Lorraine Keckeisen 3-22-17)

Local experts Mary Rosenthal of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, addiction expert Dave Ramsey, Sidney Police Chief Jan Gorshack will also speak. Pre-registration is encouraged in order to accommodate dinner provisions and door prizes, more information is available at 561-7707.

Delaware County Public Health will hold their next Free Rabies Vaccination Clinics today in Delhi. The Clinic will be held at the Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extension from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting reported the arrest of 2 parents in connection with the death of 16-year-old Jeffrey Franklin on March 1st in the Town of Guilford. The Sheriff’s Office arrested 35-year-old Ernest Franklin & 33 year old Heather Franklin following the investigation of a fire at their residence on state Route 8. The autopsy showed that the fire did not cause Jeffrey’s death, and that he was deceased prior to the fire, investigators believe the fire was set to cover up the murder of Jeffrey. Both parents are charged with 2nd degree Murder, Arson and Tampering with Physical Evidence. The investigation is continuing and further charges may be filed.

State Police arrested 56-year-old Danny Baldwin of Cherry Valley, for Conspiracy. Troopers accuse Baldwin of conspiring by allegedly attempting to hire another person to intentionally commit murder. Baldwin was arraigned in town of Richfield Springs Court and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $250,000 cash bail or $500,000 property bond.

Oneonta Police arrested 20-year-old Kyle Alger of Oneonta on Drug Charges Friday Night. Alger was interviewed by police at his Rose Avenue home after a neighbor called to complain that someone was vomiting outside of Alger’s car. Alger is accused of throwing an item underneath the vehicle as police arrived, police then recovered 2 grams of bulk heroin & 11 individually packaged paper folds, and $532 cash. Alger was charged with Criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Legendary performers Judy Collins & Stephen Stills will perform together this summer at the Anderson Center at SUNY Binghamton on August 28th. Anderson center Marketing Director Roseanne Norris explains:

(Roseanne Norris 3-22-17)

Tickets go on sale on Monday March 27th. Norris said that Collins & Stills would be touring on a collaborative album due out this summer.

A new Siena College poll has Governor Cuomo at his highest favorability ratings in 2 years. Today's Poll has 60% of respondents viewing Cuomo favorably, compared to 34% who have an unfavorable view. Today's poll also has President Donald Trump with 68% unfavorable and only 29% favorable.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded a fatal, 2 car head on collision on Bear Spring Mountain in the Town of Walton Saturday. Sheriff’s Deputies and the State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit revealed that 43 year old Andrew Thompson of Tenafly, New Jersey, was driving on State Route 206 when a vehicle driven by 41 year old Joel Alves of Hopewell Junction crossed the center lines & collided head on with Thompson’s vehicle. Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene, his wife 43-year-old Wendy Hoeben, and their 6-year-old son were transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton, Hoeben was treated & released, and the child was transferred to Westchester Medical Center. Alves was also transported to Delaware Valley Hospital where he was also treated and released. Alves was driving with a suspended driver’s license and a suspended vehicle registration, the investigation is continuing & charges are anticipated.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia today reminded school districts of their duty to comply with existing state and federal laws that ensure the rights of immigrant children to attend New York’s public schools without fear of reprisal. The guidance provides districts with information pertaining to their duties under the law, regarding the confidentiality of student records, that Law enforcement officers may not remove a student from school property or interrogate a student without the consent of the student’s parent, except during a typical crime investigation. The guidance reminds districts that under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, parents must consent to disclosing personally identifiable student information, except in some rare situations.

SUNY Delhi has been ranked among the country’s “Most Affordable Colleges for Incoming Freshman with Financial Need” by Student Loan Report. The ranking, based on Peterson’s college data, examined need-based scholarships and grants to incoming freshmen at more than 1,000 colleges. SUNY Delhi ranked at #158, with financial aid awarded to 87% of freshmen with financial need. The average financial aid award is $8,026.

Many locations in the Tri-County area were hit hard by Saturday's torrential downpours, which led to downed trees, isolated power outages and damage to property. Walton & Conklin hit flood stage, many other towns hit action stage, the latest river levels and projections can be found at WCDORADIO.COM & click on River Levels.

The Sidney Rotary Club is funding a Recovery Coach Training Program at the Tri-Town Hospital today. The program implementation and content will be delivered by Mary Rosenthal, Executive Director of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Delaware County and instructor, Jeannette Tolson. The Training begins today through this Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman warned immigrants of scams, where people have been fraudulently posing as Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents scams and demanding money in order to avoid deportation. Schneiderman said that his office has received an increasing number of scams as deportation raids that been have taken place. To report potential fraud, people are asked to call the Attorney General's Immigration Services Fraud Unit Hotline at (866) 390-2992 or email Civil.Rights@ag.ny.gov.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a "First Friday Eat & Meet" membership breakfast on Friday, March 3 from 8:30 - 10 a.m. at Centennial Lounge in Sanford Hall at SUNY Delhi. The featured speaker is Michael Laliberte who was appointed as SUNY Delhi president in August. The event is sponsored by SFCU, To RSVP call 746-2281 or register online at delawarecounty.org.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its Annual Dinner & Celebration of Business that will be held on Tuesday, March 28th at SUNY Oneonta’s Hunt Union Ballroom. Nominations are accepted at survey.constantcontact.com.

Binghamton Police charged 25-year-old Juan Lopez of Binghamton for the stabbing death of 31-year-old Santos Echevarria of Binghamton. Officers were called to the parking lot of Town & Country apartments for a disturbance early Sunday morning, Echevarria had already left the scene in a vehicle and was taken to the Lourdes Hospital Emergency Room; He died a short time later. Lopez also fled, but he surrendered himself to Binghamton Police. he was charged with 2nd degree Murder, Binghamton Police are continuing the investigation and are encouraging anyone with information to contact them at 772-7080.

The Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention will meet tonight at 6:00 PM at the Sidney High School Library. Coalition spokesperson Lorraine Keckeisen discussed tonight’s agenda, and other schedule items coming up shortly:

(Lorraine Keckeisen 2-15-17)

The Recovery Coach Training Event will be hosted by Tri-Town Regional Hospital and will be delivered by Mary Rosenthal & her staff at The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County.

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.

The "I Am Dreaming of a Cancer-Free Christmas" Holiday Bazaar will be held on December 5th at the Sidney American legion. Organizer Amanda Bunzey explains:

(Amanda Bunzey 12-4-15)

Bunzey said that last year they raised $4000, this year's event would run from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the event is sponsored by the NBT Bank, NBT-Mang Insurance Relay For Life team.

The Unadilla Rotary will host the "Come to Unadilla" event Saturday, which includes Breakfast at the Unadilla Methodist Church, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at the Library, a Local business Scavenger Hunt, Horse and wagon rides, Musical entertainment, Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Community Center from 3:00 to 4:00 pm.

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.

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.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 31-year-old Christopher Davis of Otego, for Criminal Trespass & Unlawfully Growing Cannabis. The arrest occurred after Troopers received a report of a man trespassing in a cabin on Washburn Road in the Town of Otego, the investigation determined that Davis had been allowed to stay a few nights at a cabin on the property, but refused to leave for over two weeks, Davis allegedly left marihuana plants that he was growing in the cabin. Davis was arraigned at the Town of Otego Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,500 cash bail or a $3,000 property bond.

High School Graduations and Graduation parties will be this coming weekend, and the Alcohol & drug Abuse Council of Delaware county is reminding celebrants that new York still has a zero tolerance for underage drinking of alcohol. Spokesman Justin Hamm comments:

(Justin Hamm 6-24-15)

Hamm also stated that New York has "Social Host Laws" which makes it illegal to serve alcohol in one's home to anyone less than 21 years of age.

State Police at Binghamton arrested 30 year old Shirley Rogers of Liverpool, for Felony DWI, after Troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of a one car accident on State Route 7B in the Town of Fenton. The investigation determined that Rogers was intoxicated when she drove off the roadway and into a ditch. The arrest was a felony due to 2 prior DWI convictions. Rogers refused to submit to a test of her blood alcohol content, she was arraigned at the Town of Fenton Court and then remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set.

Governor Cuomo today announced $658 million to support access to healthy food for some of New York’s most vulnerable residents. The funds will be awarded to 92 health and wellness providers that support approximately 400 WIC clinics across the state, reaching nearly 500,000 New Yorkers every month. This funding is administered over five years and is a combination of state and federal money. The grant awardees locally include the Broome County Health Department & Delaware Opportunities.

Another free Chenango County Rabies clinic will be held today. The clinic will run from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the firehouse in New Berlin, more information is available at 337-1673.

Governor Cuomo renewed his push for lawmakers to extend a cap on local property taxes. The governor announced that they would launch an online media campaign to support the cap that was enacted in 2011. Republicans in both houses want the cap made permanent, while Cuomo seeks only a 5-year extension of the existing law. The cap generally restricts local governments from increasing tax levies by more than 2 percent or the rate of inflation and can only be overridden by voters.

Constitution Pipeline Company announced the recipients of the 6th cycle of their Community Grant program, awarding 25 grants totaling more than $200,000 to benefit local communities within the counties traversed by the proposed pipeline project. Current grants were awarded to the Town of Afton, The Village of Bainbridge, The Bainbridge Historical Society, the Chenango County Blues Association, the Franklin Fire Department, the Delaware County Fire Fighters Association, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office & the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County.

P.m. news Thursday 6-26-14
The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested Adam Simpkin of Afton on charges of 3rd degree Burglary & 5th degree Conspiracy. Simpkin was arrested following an investigation into an incident in Sherburne; he was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court and remanded to the Correctional Facility on $5,000 bail pending future court action.

Graduation parties will be held all over the region this weekend, as are high school seniors attend their commencement exercises, and graduation parties. Justin Hamm of the Alcolhol & drug abuse council of Delaware county reminds parents of seniors that Social Host Laws of New York state prohibit serving alcohol to minors in their homes:

(Justin Hamm 6-26-14)

Hamm also said that scientific research in recent years shows that the human brain continues to grow to maturity until about the age of 25 and introducing alcohol to the adolescent brain could reduce cognitive skills and memory.

Governor Cuomo announced $13.8 million in funding to help more than 200 farms across New York implement enhanced soil and water conservation practices. Grants were awarded to 32 county soil and water conservation districts, and provided by the State Soil and Water Conservation Committee and the State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Locally, Broome receives $173,555.00 for 5 farms, Chenango receives $515,050.00 for 4 farms, Delaware County gets $543,492.00 for 18 farms and Otsego County gets $161,678.98 for 3 farms. More information is available at nys-soilandwater.org.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 34-year-old Derick Coveny of Morris for DWI following a motorcycle accident on Walters Road in New Lisbon. An investigation determined Coveny was driving his motorcycle while intoxicated and without a helmet. He was taken to a local hospital and treated for minor injuries. Coveny was issued tickets for New Lisbon Court July 15th

New York’s health exchange enrolled nearly 1 million people since October, and the largest percentage were aged 26-34. New York nearly met its enrollment goal for 2016 in its first year of the health exchange, signing up 960,762 state residents. 55 percent chose Medicaid, the federal program for the poor and disabled. About 370,000 chose a private insurer; and nearly 65,000 picked Child Health Plus, the state’s insurance program for poor children. The next enrollment period starts Nov. 15

New York State will receive $6.18 million, from the U.S. Department of Labor, to train unemployed workers for jobs in high-demand industries. New York is one of 32 states, receiving grants totaling $154 million, under the National Emergency Grant Program. The funding will help create or expand employer partnerships that provide on-the-job training, apprenticeships and other occupational training, that result in an industry-recognized credential. The funding also will be used to provide career coaching and counseling, as well as job placement assistance. For more information go to dol.gov

The 5 member Independent Democratic Conference announced it would seek to share power with Senate Democrats after the November elections, ending the coalition with Republicans that ran the Senate for the past 2 years. The move would have implications on policy decisions, such as whether to raise the minimum wage, implement public financing of political campaigns and strengthen abortion rights. Democrats would control all branches of state government when the legislative session resumes in January, if Governor Cuomo and Democrats win election this fall.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office executed a “no knock” search warrant in South New Berlin, following a lengthy investigation into the sales of heroin and cocaine.  39-year-old Jennifer Perrotti was charged with  Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance,  Criminal Nuisance, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  The Narcotics Division recovered cocaine and heroin from within the residence as well as packaging material and scales,   Perrotti was arraigned in the Town of Columbus Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $15,000 cash bail. She is expected to return to the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

Several area organizations are teaming up to present a Health fair in Sidney Saturday,   including  the Sidney  Boys & Girls Club,   club director Trish Tyrell comments:

(Trish Tyrell 5-16-14)

The event will be held at the Fireman’s Training Center in Sidney from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Other organizations involved include Utica School of Commerce, The Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County, Birthright of Sidney & Family Planning of South Central New York.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, State Police & Norwich Police arrested 53 year old Allan Sheppard on Friday for criminal nuisance, and criminal possession of a weapon, following a drug investigation into illegal drug activity in Afton. Police recovered more than 6 illegally possessed long guns and an undisclosed amount of cash, Sheppard has a prior felony conviction, which prevents him from legally possessing a firearm, and the criminal nuisance charge alleges that Sheppard was using his residence to sell controlled substances. He was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility in lieu of $30,000 cash bail. More arrests are pending.

Several area organizations are teaming up to present a Health fair in Sidney on May 17th , Trish Tyrell of the Boys & Girls Club of Sidney explains:

(Trish Tyrell 5-12-14)

The event will be held at the Fireman’s Training Center on River Street in Sidney on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Other organization involved include Utica School of Commerce, It takes A Village, Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County, Birthright of Sidney & Family Planning of South Central New York.

April is Alcohol & Drug Abuse Awareness Month, and with prom & graduation seasons coming soon, it is important to remember that those events have been incorrectly viewed by generations as a rite of passage for teenagers to be introduced to alcohol, according to Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County:

(Dave Ramsey 4-24-14)

Ramsey pointed out that in recent years, new York state has instituted “Social Host Laws” making it illegal to serve alcohol to minors at parties at home, and making the party’s hosts liable for any damage or fatalities that may occur by serving minors alcohol.

Tomorrow is “Paint The Town Purple” to raise awareness about cancer. Helen Gregory of the American Cancer society explains:

(Helen Gregory 4-24-14)

Gregory said that a “Relay For Life” event will be held this weekend in Delhi, and the Tri Town Relay for life will be held in General Clinton park in Bainbridge Friday may 2nd to Saturday may 3rd.

U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand called on FEMA to grant another extension to Sandy victims who still need to file flood insurance claims. Under the National Flood Insurance Program, Sandy-impacted homeowners must file a “proof of loss” form, a statement on the amount the homeowner is claiming under a flood insurance policy. The 1st deadline was last October 29th, in order to be eligible for coverage for flood damage, but many were unable to meet the deadline. With the new April 28th deadline approaching, Schumer and Gillibrand are calling on FEMA to grant another extension.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors voted to implement a bed tax at its meeting yesterday in Delhi. Funds from a 2 percent hotel, motel and bed and breakfast room tax in Delaware County will be used to promote tourism. The resolution will now go before the state Legislature to be assigned a bill

State Police arrested 30-year-old Tory Brown of New Berlin for Criminal Contempt, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Mischief and Harassment. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to a dispute in Columbus.   Brown is accused of grabbing the victim by the throat, damaging a cell phone & violating an order of protection.   Brown was arraigned in the town of Norwich Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 bail.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo introduced a bill that would allow farmers in New York to grow hemp, which is used to make fabric, rope, paper, oil, soap, lotion and food. A provision of the new Federal Farm Bill legalized the growth of hemp for research, it had been banned because it stems from the same plant as marijuana, but industrial hemp and marijuana are genetically distinct varieties of cannabis & it is not possible to extract a drug from hemp. If the legislation passes, New York would become the 11th state to produce hemp.

The National Weather Service has issued a red-flag warning until 8:00 PM due to the increased risk of fire. The breezy conditions and low humidity could lead to fast spreading grass & brush fires, the DEC burn ban runs through May 16th.

A Norwich teen is facing charges after she jumped out a window at the Norwich City Police Department.  17-year-old Cheyenne Davenport was charged with 2nd degree burglary, 2 counts of petty larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance, after she allegedly entered a relative’s house and took medication and cash. 2 hours later, she jumped out the department’s window, Police found her hiding in a nearby house and also charged her with 2nd degree escape. Davenport was sent to the Chenango County jail on $2,500 bail.

The National Baseball Hall Of Fame announced today that on Memorial Day Weekend would feature 75 former major leaguers playing in 2014 Hall of Fame Classic, presented by Ford Motor Company, at Doubleday field in Cooperstown.  Hall of Fame Members Roberto Alomar, Andre Dawson, Rollie Fingers, Eddie Murray, Phil Niekro and Ozzie Smith will serve as managers and coaches for the sixth annual game on Saturday, May 24th starting with the Home Run Derby at 1 PM and the Classic will start at 2:05 PM. Tickets for the Hall of Fame Classic are $ available at 1-877-726-9028 or at baseballhall.org.

12.6% of New York residents’ income went to state and local taxes in 2011, the highest rate in the nation, according to a report from the Tax Foundation.  Their annual report placed New York at the top of the list for the second straight year, though the total burden fell from 13.1% in 2010. The national average for 2011 was 9.8%.  State Lawmakers have lowered the State tax rates since 2011.

The Delaware, Ulster & Greene Sheriff’s Departments and State Police investigated vehicle thefts, & announced the arrest of 53-year-old Joel Yaro of Ulster Park for 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny.  Yaro is accused of   the theft of a vehicle from Hancock that was recovered in the Town of Kortright later that day, following the recovery of that vehicle; Deputies investigated the theft of a vehicle from the Town of Kortright, which was recovered by Greene County Sheriff’s Deputies the following day.  Yaro was arraigned in the Town of Hancock Court on the two Grand Larceny charges Wednesday; he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail pending further court action.

Tougher texting-while-driving penalties for teenage and new drivers were included in this year’s state budget agreement. Under the state’s new budget, drivers who are under 18, or have a probationary license, will see their driving rights suspended for 120 days on a first texting conviction and a year on the second one.  The governor has pushed for tougher distracted-driving penalties since taking office in 2011, when he and lawmakers changed the state’s texting-while-driving ban from a secondary to a primary offense. Last year, there were 55,130 texting-while-driving tickets issued in the state, up 82 percent from the previous year.

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, where parents are encouraged to educate their children about the dangers of alcohol & alcohol dependency.  Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County told WCDO News that research in the last few years has indicated that alcohol to a forming teenaged brain has lasting consequences:

(Dave Ramsey 4-3-14)

Those who would like more information can go the toe council’s website at ADACONLINE.org.

State attorney general Eric Schneiderman announced agreements with 10 repossession businesses to help limit the marketing of short-term loans using cars as collateral. With so-called title loans, the short-term borrowing by consumers with poor credit histories can carry high interest rates, making them difficult to pay off and easier to roll over for additional interest. At the end of the loan, borrowers may face balloon payments or loss of their cars.  More information is available at oag.state.ny.us.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office executed a “no knock” search warrant at 219 Kelly Rd in the Town of Columbus early this morning.  The Narcotics Division arrested 24-year-old Kody Weidman for Criminal Nuisance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia.  The Sheriff’s Office recovered cocaine and a digital scale during the execution of the search warrant. Weidman is currently a New York State Parole following a previous drug offense.  Weidman was arraigned in the Town of Columbus Court and remanded to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on $5,000 cash bail. He is also being held on a New York State Parole Warrant.  Norwich Police, New Berlin Police and State Parole division assisted with the investigation.

State Police and the Vestal Police Department arrested 37-year-old Rashid Imhotep & 44 year old Nathaniel Williams on 2 counts each or criminal possession of a controlled substance & using drug paraphernalia, Imhotep was also charged with resisting arrest for jumping out of a window & struggling with officers.  Both were arraigned in City of Binghamton Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.  Police confiscated heroin with a street value of between $50,000 and $80,000, as well as packaging materials, grinders, scales and other items that are used to sell the drug.

Governor Cuomo announced the approval of $5.9 million to support economic development projects throughout the state.  Local projects assisted include the MARK Project of Delaware County for $250,000.  Also the Delaware County IDA & the Amphenol Corporation of Sidney will use a grant of up to $750,000 for a portion of the cost to construct a natural gas distribution line from the Constitution Pipeline to Amphenol’s   existing facility at 40-60 Delaware Avenue, as well as the new manufacturing facility to be being constructed at 171 Delaware Avenue, which will help retain 950 jobs.

12-time GRAMMY Award winner and baseball fan Paul Simon, has joined the lineup for a concert in celebration of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s 75th Anniversary on Saturday, August 2nd.  The concert event will take place in Cooperstown at the Clark Sports Center, and will feature the world-renowned Boston Pops & Bernie Williams, a four-time World Series Champion member of the New York Yankees and a GRAMMY nominee. Paul Simon will perform three songs at the concert event, which will celebrate baseball through music, film and video.

Solitary confinement for juvenile, pregnant women and developmentally disabled prisoners will be limited under a deal struck by state and the New York Civil Liberties Union. The NYCLU sued the state Department of Corrections, arguing the state’s system of solitary confinement violated the U.S. Constitution. The state will no longer place pregnant inmates in solitary housing units “except in exceptional circumstances” approved by the corrections department. Inmates who are age 16 or 17 would be limited to no more than 19 hours in their cell per day and offered the opportunity to exercise outdoors five days a week. For developmentally disabled inmates, the deal calls for the state to create an alternative program for those who have been in solitary confinement for more than 30 days

Greater Maywood Rural Community Services is holding The "Lasagna And Laughs" organic fund-raising dinner will be held Saturday night at the Sidney VFW Hall, group spokesperson Lisa Barr comments:

(Lisa Barr 2-21-14)

Admission is $8.00 at the door. Money raised will help the group to continue to operate & maintain the former Sidney Center School building as a community center.

Oneonta police arrested 58-year-old James Hone of Oneonta following an incident earlier this month involving an envelope mailed to Oneonta City Court.  Hone was charged with Aggravated harassment in connection with the February 3rd incident when court employees opened a letter containing a white powder. After an investigation, the substance posed no threat to court personnel.   Hone was arraigned in Oneonta Town Court on Tuesday, he was sent to the Otsego County jail on $50,000 cash or $100,000 bond bail.

The problem of heroin addiction has come back again, as it seems to now regain popularity every 20 years, in spite of its deadly reputation.  Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware county comments:

(Dave Ramsey 2-20-14)

Those in need of help regarding heroin or other substance addictions can access information through the council’s website at adaconline.org or by calling 746-8300.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested Joshua Stilson of Guilford for 2nd degree Aggravated Harassment, following an incident in the Town of Norwich.  Stilson is accused of harassing an individual numerous times by electronic means, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and released on his own recognizance, pending future court action.

The Tony Award winning musical “American Idiot” featuring the music of Green Day, will be coming to the Broome County Forum in Binghamton on Thursday March 6th at 7:30 PM.  NAC Entertainment spokesperson Tina Niles explains:

(Tina Niles 2-20-14)

Niles said that good seats are still available at the Arena Box Office and Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman is proposing legislation to help those wrongfully convicted of a crime, file claims against the state. Schneiderman said current law hinders those who were wrongfully imprisoned and then had their convictions overturned. The Unjust Imprisonment Act would strip away restrictions that block lawsuits, by people seeking financial damages, after being coerced into false confessions or exonerated by DNA evidence. The bill must pass the state Legislature to be enacted into law.

The Amphenol Building Project in Sidney is progressing on schedule.  Amphenol Project Manager Tom Czernicki explains:

(Tom Czernicki 2-18-14)

Czernicki said that they were able to get a roof on the new structure before the winter hit, so this rough winter did not slow them down.  There are currently over 150 people working on the Amphenol project on Delaware Avenue.

The increased use of heroin continues to be a major problem locally and throughout the state, as emergency rooms continue to see increasing numbers of overdoses.  Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County told WCDO News that the I-stop Program has cut down on people “Doctor Shopping” for painkillers; the next option for addicts has become heroin:

(Dave Ramsey 2-18-14)

Ramsey said that those who have a heroin problem, or who has a loved one with that addiction, they can contact ADAC at 746-8300.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 59-year-old David Mokay of Meridale on 1 count of endangering the Welfare of a Child and 1 count of Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Circulation following a Domestic Incident.  Mokay was arraigned in Town of Meredith Court and was remanded to Delaware County Correctional Facility on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 bail bond. Mokay is to reappear at Meredith Court on March 5th.

New York transportation officials are setting up public hearings to discuss options for high-speed passenger rail service between New York City and Niagara Falls has been the long time goal of industry leaders, elected officials and transit advocates.  The public meetings will be held between March 4th and 14th in Albany, Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester, Utica & Poughkeepsie.

Governor Cuomo announced that all 112 New York Works accelerated bridge projects have been completed and open to motorists.  The opening of the Western Gateway Bridge in Schenectady County marks the final finished project, the program allotted $212 million to address bridge replacement or rehabilitation on 112 bridges,  $687 million was allocated for 9 projects that were delayed due to budget constraints. More than 2,000 miles of pavement were replaced in 2012 as part of the program.

Environmental, health and consumer advocacy groups are pushing back against plans by the Cuomo administration to restructure how pesticides are tracked. 38 groups protested a proposal that rolls back a requirement that commercial applicators report where pesticides are used. It would replace that with a new reporting requirement that collects pesticide data at the point of sale. Environmental Advocates say the changes impede the public’s right-to-know about the use of toxic chemicals. DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said the intent is to make the data more usable and accessible.

State lawmakers voted to exempt retired police from restrictions from the New York SAFE ACT, on large-capacity magazines and guns classified as assault weapons.  The legislation passed Friday, the exemption would apply to officers who bought or were issued restricted weapons in the course of their duties and who retired in good standing.  The new law stipulates that the officers would still have to re-qualify for right after they retire and they are still required to register those guns.

Governor Cuomo announced that the State has awarded $13.1 million in grants under Operation IMPACT to 17 counties to fight gun violence and other violent crimes.  This funding allows municipalities to enhance police patrols and increase investigations to target high crimes areas. Operation IMPACT counties reported that crime was down 9% for the first quarter. Locally, the Binghamton Police Department will get $381,700 in grant money.

NYSEG officials announced that they are taking measures to prepare for a summer of hot temperatures.  NYSEG accelerated reliability practices including Vegetation management, comprehensive maintenance, visual and infrared inspections of equipment, Helicopter patrols of key facilities and high-tech inspections and testing of substation equipment.  Information of how to keep electricity use down in the hot summer months is available at nyseg.com/UsageAndSafety (http://www.nyseg.com/UsageAndSafety/usingenergywisely/default.html).

Teen drug use continues to be problematic with new drugs like synthetic marijuana, bath salts, & “Mollies” joining substances like heroin, prescription pain pills, stimulants, cocaine & stronger grades of marijuana in the last year.  Dave Ramsey is the Executive Director of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County; he mentions some of the changed behaviors that teens may exhibit when they experiment with these drugs:

(Dave Ramsey 6-27-13)

The Drug Enforcement Administration announced 150 arrests yesterday of those who were involved in trafficking bath salts and synthetic marijuana here, DEA officials said that the added problem is that the money from the sale of these drugs goes to the Middle East and the often goes to suspected terrorists groups.

NYSERDA is offering grants for projects that will stimulate environmentally friendly, sustainable economic growth consistent with the Regional Sustainability and REDC plans. This funding is available through Phase II of the Cleaner, Greener Communities Program. Funding Categories include Streamlined Permitting, Comprehensive Planning, & Capital Projects.   Applicants must include a scope of work, budget, and project timeline with application, which is due August 12th.

Hospice Chenango announces the 2nd Annual “We Honor Veterans” motorcycle ride to benefit Hospice. The ride will take place on August 10th, the money raised will be allocated to provide services to Veterans who reside in Chenango County and opt for Hospice care. The ride and is open to any rider and passenger for a fee of $10.00 per person. Registration will begin at 9:30am at the American Legion Post at 29 Sheldon Street in Norwich.  More information is available about Hospice at hospicechenango.org.

Fire destroyed Upturn Industries at 2 Whitney Way in Bainbridge this morning.  The fire was reported at around 6:00 AM, crews from Bainbridge, Afton, Sidney, Masonville & Unadilla and several other departments responded, the cause of the fire is under investigation.  Upturn manufactured aerospace components at the site, employing 30 people.

The state assembly is looking into ways to try to stop the continuing problem of state government leadership breaking the laws that they have implemented.  Area assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments:

(Crouch 5-30-13)

State senate leaders Joe Bruno, Pedro Espada, Hiram Monseratte, Malcolm Smith and John Sampson have all been investigated, arrested or prosecuted for crimes that were allegedly committed while in office, the Smith & Sampson cases are the most recent, both men face court action shortly.

The Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County has included forms online for “Pledges” that parents of teenagers can use to try to get a handle on under aged drinking.  Council executive director Dave Ramsey explains:

(Dave Ramsey 5-30-13)

Ramsey said that both pledges are available through the council’s “Facebook” page, also the latest information about alcohol & drug abuse can be found on the council website: adaconline.org.

The American Red Cross announced that another Communities that Care Blood Drive is scheduled for June 7th from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM at the Howard Johnson's, in downtown Norwich.  Appointments are requested at 1-800-RedCross or at redcrossblood.org.  All presenting donors will receive a coupon for Chobani yogurt, a FREE Red Cross tee shirt AND be entered to win a $200 gift card.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 3 people on drug charges in Binghamton, Investigators discovered that “Jamell Shannon” had given them a false name; he has now been identified as 29-year-old Jamell Fisher.   Fisher is wanted in Connecticut for 1st degree Assault, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Criminal Use of Firearm, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm & 1st degree Reckless Endangerment in connection with an October 2011 shooting.    Fisher was charged as a Fugitive from Justice, False Personation, and 2nd degree Forgery, he was arraigned in the City of Binghamton Court and was remanded to the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility pending future court action.

State police & Chenango county emergency crews responded to a tractor-trailer accident on state route 8 in south New Berlin, at around 6:20 this morning.  The road was closed off through the afternoon for the clean up & accident reconstruction, traffic was rerouted to Chenango county route 18.

April is alcohol & drug abuse aware ness month, and Delaware count6y officials are trying to combat the persistent problem of underage drinking, and the parental thought that alcohol is not dangerous and is a “Right of passage”.  Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County said that Parents can make a pledge & change that perception:

(Dave Ramsey 4-17-13)

Ramsey said that the council will help parents & comminutes with starting more positive ways to stop underage drinking, information is available at 746-8300 of at adaconline.org

Delaware county public health announced a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets at Davenport Fire Hall has been rescheduled for tonight at the Stamford Highway Garage on Railroad Avenue tonight from 6:00 PM to 8:00 Pm.  More information about rabies vaccinations is available at 832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com

State officials are alerting residents to potential scams that purport to be for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing on Monday.  Officials remind new Yorkers to only Contribute to known and verifiable charities, who can be researched through the Department of State Division of Consumer Protection, the State Attorney General, the IRS and the Better Business Bureau. Legitimate charities are listed at oag.state.ny.us or through Guidestar (http://www.guidestar.org/), American Institute of Philanthropy (http://www.charitywatch.org/), and Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.org/).

NYSEG has begun inspecting wooden transmission poles in their Binghamton Division for decay and other damage. These poles are the first of nearly 19,000 wooden transmission and distribution poles that will be inspected across the NYSEG service area this year, all in an effort to help head off potential problems that could lead to power interruptions. Oneonta Division inspections will occur over the summer months.

The Chenango county sheriffs department, Norwich city police and from the US Marshals, apprehended Shawn Fowlston in a room at the Sherburne Motel last night.  Fowlston was wanted on 2 warrants for forcible touching and harassment.  Fowlston had been released on parole on Monday following a recent conviction for 3rd degree rape; the alleged incident occurred on Tuesday, Fowlston faces action in Norwich city court today.

There have been alarming changes in the drugs used illegally in Delaware County in the last year, with the comeback of one drug particularly troublesome, according to Delaware county sheriff Tom Mills:

(Sheriff Tom Mills 4-4-13)

Mills said that strong Marijuana is also a problem, leading many to gateway into heroin.  Another problem is prescription medications making there way out of the medicine cabinet & into the black market, according to Dave Ramsey of the Delaware county Alcohol & drug Abuse council:

(Dave Ramsey 4-4-13)

Those who have questions about heroin, prescription pain medications or other abused substances can call the council at 746-8300.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 27-year-old Brad Perry of Plymouth for unlawful possession of marijuana, & 22-year-old Todd Williams for failure to appear.  The arrests followed a traffic stop in oxford Monday; Perry was issued an appearance ticket for oxford court at a later date.  Williams was taken into custody and was transferred over to the Norwich City Police Department for failing to appear in court to answer to a charge of disorderly conduct.

New York State Assemblyman Eric Stevenson of the Bronx & 4 others have been arrested by the FBI on Bribery, Conspiracy & other charges.  Another state assembly member is unidentified, but was listed in a sealed indictment and is cooperating with authorities in the corruption probe.   Stevenson is accused of receiving $19,000 in cash from 3 businessmen seeking preferential treatment for their businesses.

State Troopers arrested 21-year-old Michael Nodine of Sidney for Criminal Possession of Marihuana and Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop for failing to obey the "Move Over Law" in Oneonta, Nodine was released on an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court on April 23rd.

Spring Valley Mayor Noramie Jasmin (http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/04/02/sen-malcolm-smith-arrested-in-alleged-plot-to-rig-nyc-mayors-race/) was charged Tuesday with mail fraud as part of the corruption case involving former State senator Majority Leader Malcolm Smith.  Jasmin is accused of voting to approve a development in exchange for receiving a secret part ownership of the land where the development would be built.  Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Joseph Desmaret has also been charged with mail fraud, all 6 involved in the Malcolm Smith case face court action on April 23rd.

The New York State Office of General Services announced that surplus vehicle auctions will be held on May 23rd at 9:30 at the DOT facility at 241 Colesville road in Binghamton and SUNY Binghamton.  More information is available at ogs.ny.gov (mailto:ogs.ny.gov), or at  (518) 457-6335.

New York state passed “Social Host” laws a few years ago, that made it illegal for parents to host parties where underage alcoholic drinking in their homes.  Dave Ramsey of the Delaware county alcohol & drug abuse council explains the law, as part of the recognition of April as “Alcohol Awareness Month”:

(Dave Ramsey 4-2-13)

Ramsey said that brain research in recent years shows that the brain does not reach its peak until around age 25, and the entering of alcohol to the brain prior to the age leads to cognitive difficulties and the stunting of an individual reaching their full potential.  More information is available by calling the council at 746-8300.

State Troopers arrested 51-year-old Eve Pierson of Cooperstown for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. The arrest resulted from a 911 complaint of an erratic operator on State Route 28 in Milford; Pierson was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Milford Court on April 16th.

NYSEG reminds contractors and customers to call Dig Safely New York at 811 to have underground facilities marked before beginning any excavation work. Every year, there are dozens of incidents of third-party damage of NYSEG’s underground natural gas and electric facilities. These incidents can put people’s lives in danger, are costly and can interrupt essential utility service.  More information is available at 1-800-962-7962 or at www.digsafelynewyork.com (http://www.digsafelynewyork.com/).

Delaware County Deputies arrested 24-year-old Kyle Alverson of Delhi for 3rd degree Criminal Mischief, following an incident on Glen Burnie Rd in the town of Delhi, Alverson released on an appearance for April 9th, in the Town of Delhi Court.

Binghamton police arrested 31-year-old Bryan Coole of Binghamton following traffic stop.  Police confiscated 20 bags of heroin from Coole’s car during the traffic stop, he was charged with 3rd degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and is scheduled to be arraigned the City of Binghamton Court.

Democratic State Senator Malcolm Smith of Queens, New York City Councilman Dan Halloran and Republican County Chairmen Joseph Savino of the Bronx and Vincent Tabone of queens, were arrested today by the FBI, for allegedly hatching a scheme to allow smith to run for New York City mayor under the less populated republican line.  Smith Is accused of arranging for a real estate developer to fund bribes, and Halloran is accused of negotiating the payments to be $40,000, the developer was actually an undercover officer.  More arrested are anticipated shortly.  Smith previously served as the state senate majority leader, he scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon in Westchester County.