WCDO Radio News

Reports out of Washington today suggest that a 1-year extension of the 2008 farm bill will be implemented before midnight tonight, which would save dairy farmers from getting a lower price for their milk and consumers from paying 8 dollars or more a gallon retail.  Chenango county farm bureau president Bradd Vickers told WCDO news that congress should have passed a new 5-year farm bill months ago:

(Bradd Vickers)

A new farm bill is put together every 5 years in Washington; the new congress will have a year in 2013 to get a new measure passed to protect one of the nations largest industries.

A new sales tax exemption designed to encourage solar energy use and a law to provide new protections for domestic violence victims are new state laws that take effect tomorrow.  Other measures that take effect on New Year’s Day include laws that help craft brewers distribute their products, prohibit the sale of e-cigarettes to minors, and authorize new ways for colleges to provide health insurance for students.

State Troopers arrested 48-year-old Robert Quinn of Kirkwood for 4th degree Criminal Mischief and 2nd degree Harassment, from a dispute on Johnson Road in Kirkwood.  Quinn was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Kirkwood Court on January 10th, he was then turned over to the Village of Deposit Police Department, which had an active arrest warrant for him on separate charges.

Commerce Chenango announced that its economic development affiliate, Development Chenango Corporation, has been awarded $250,000 to establish a Main Street grant program in the Village of New Berlin.  The $334,000 program will make improvements to 6 commercial buildings that will be renovated.  The New Berlin Main Street grant was 1 of 5 projects announced during Governor Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Council awards ceremony, other awards include a $275,000 grant to Sunrise Family Farms in Green,   $30,000 to Greene for a sewer collection engineering study; nearly $100,000 to DCMO BOCES for training unemployed individuals for health-related careers; and a $2.3 million Recharge New York power allocation for an expansion project by Golden Artist Colors in Columbus.

State Police investigated a fatal motor vehicle collision, which occurred on Sunday afternoon on State Route 366 in the Town of Dryden.   Troopers reported that 20-year-old Victoria Howell of Groton lost control of her vehicle and entered the eastbound lane, striking a vehicle operated by 48-year-old James Caywood of Elmira.    Ms. Howell was transported to Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca where she died from her injuries,  Caywood was not injured in the collision.  No charges have been filed.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 24-year-old Alexandria Johnson of Maryland, for Driving While Intoxicated.   Johnson was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Maryland Court on January 8th.

3 state lawmakers will appear at swearing in ceremonies in Oneonta on New Year’s Day.  State Senator  Jim Seward and Assembly members Bill Magee and Claudia Tenney will be sworn in to office during an event at Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street.  The event will begin at 1:00 PM, Oneonta Mayor Dick Miller will be master of ceremonies.

The state senate will be operating under a bipartisan coalition in the New Year.  State senator Tom Libous of Binghamton told WCDO News that he feels that the senate will have a productive year:

(Libous)

The new session will begin following the governor’s annual State of the State Address, which will be held in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center on January 9th at 1:30 PM.

State troopers in Binghamton arrested 40-year-old James Kennerup of Kirkwood and 42-year-old Terry McNerney of Windsor, for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Needle.  The arrests resulted from a suspicious vehicle parked on Fairview Drive in Windsor.  Troopers reported that McNerney had an outstanding warrant from the City of Elmira and Kennerup had and outstanding warrant from the Broome County Sheriff Department.  Both were issued Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of Windsor Court on January 16th, McNerney was turned over to the City of Elmira Police and Kennerup was turned over to the Broome County Sheriff Department.

State police will remain out in full force for New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day holidays.  Troopers will be looking for drunk & aggressive drivers, drivers using electronic equipment & they will be looking for seat belt compliance.

Crews have spent hours cleaning up route 17 near Apalachin this morning; following an early morning flip of a tractor-trailer carrying potatoes.  The accident occurred at around 2:40 AM William May of Gillett, Pennsylvania was driving the truck and apparently fell asleep at the wheel.  May was not injured, but was ticketed for speed (http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20121228/NEWS01/312280013/Tuber-toting-tractor-trailer-tumbles-off-Route-17?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE) not reasonable and prudent and moving from a lane unsafely.

Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order directing state agencies to increase energy efficiency in state buildings by 20% in 7 years, to try to save millions of dollars for taxpayers, create thousands of jobs & reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Governor also launched “Build Smart NY,” a plan to strategically implement the Executive Order by accelerating priority improvements in energy performance.   The administration designed Build Smart New York plan that will use state building energy data to prioritize projects that will deliver the greatest energy savings per dollar spent. The largest and most inefficient buildings will be addressed first and undergo comprehensive whole-building improvements. Details are available at buildsmart.ny.gov.

A.m. news Friday 12-28-12

State Police investigated a 1-vehicle accident on Chenango county route 32 Thursday morning.  Troopers reported that 31-year-old Casey Decker of Norwich was ejected from her Toyota SUV near Chenango County Road 32A and Chenango County Road 32 in the Town of Norwich at about 7:40 Thursday morning.  Decker was pronounced dead on the scene, investigators believe that that slippery road conditions and speed contributed to the crash.

The state labor department has released unemployment figures for the month of November.  Statewide, the rate was 7.9%, 4 tenths better than October.  Locally Chenango county had a rate of 7.9%, a 1 tenth improvement over October, Delaware county’s rate went up 4 tenths to 8.9%, Otsego county’s rate decreased 1 tenth to 7.3%.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 26-year-old Edward Vanloke of Binghamton for possessing obscene sexual performance by a child, and possessing a sexual performance by a child.  Vanloke is accused of having photos of children under the age of 16 performing sexual acts.  Vanloke was arraigned in the City of Binghamton Court and was released pending further action by the court.

Binghamton police have identified 20 year old Roberto Garcia as the deceased shooter, from the shootout on the Memorial Bridge in Binghamton early Christmas morning.  Garcia shot a female officer at point blank range, she was sent to an area hospital for treatment of an ear injury suffered in the shooting, Garcia fire 6 shots and a second police officer and a person walking along the bridge with Garcia were not injured, the second person was brought in for questioning & was released.  Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikusky did not release the names of the responding officers as the department has received threats.

Governor Cuomo activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor the storm and any emergency needs. Representatives from state agencies are present to coordinate storm response efforts, including the State Police, Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Division of Military and Naval Affairs, DEC and the Department of Health.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 24 year old Scott Hartman of Norwich for 5th degree Criminal Possession of Marihuana. Hartman was processed at the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office and is scheduled to appear in the Town of North Norwich Court at a later date.

On January 1, New Yorkers are welcome to meet Governor Andrew Cuomo at the Executive Mansion.  All adults over the age of 16 wishing to attend must have a ticket. Individuals that receive a ticket will be allowed to bring one guest and any minor children from their household. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are required and space is limited. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit the Governor's website to register at governor.ny.gov (http://www.governor.ny.gov/webform/mansionopenhouse) through 6:00 PM tonight.

A Winter storm warning is in effect through Thursday afternoon, according to the national weather service.  Sidney High School Science teacher and Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO news what he thinks of this storm:

(Townsend)

A full look at the forecast follows this newscast.

NYSEG planners are closely monitoring the potential for a strong winter storm with damaging winds and snow or mixed precipitation. Strong winds and related tree damage could result in power interruptions. This storm could affect some of the same customers who lost power as a result of destructive winds late last week. Those who experience power outages should call NYSEG at 1-800-572-1131, they can also call that number to report downed power lines.

Governor Cuomo announced that $250 million is available for a broad range of renewable energy generation projects. The funding is a component of Cuomo's Energy Highway Blueprint to upgrade and modernize New York's aging energy infrastructure.  Funding for these renewable projects is administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority through the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard for projects that use wind, hydroelectric, solar, biomass or other clean-energy resources.  More information about the RPS program can be found at nyserda.ny.gov/main-tier.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 48-year-old Richard Pollock of Norwich for 2nd degree criminal contempt.  Pollock is accused of violating an order of protection signed by the Norwich City Court Judge, he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and was released on his own recognize. Richard Pollock is to reappear in the town of Norwich court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a 1-car motor vehicle accident on Holiday Brook Road in the Town of Colchester.  52-year-old Anca Ticusan of New York City lost control of her vehicle on the snow covered road and struck a tree, deploying both of her vehicles air bags.  Ticusan was uninjured and no tickets were issued.

Details have been released regarding the schedule of events for the first night Oneonta celebrations on Monday December 31st.  Events will run from 4:00 to 10:00 pm, starting with the annual parade along Main Street, 25 area musical & entertainment acts will participate in festivities in 14 city locations throughout the rest of the day.  The full schedule is available at firstnightoneonta.com.

State Police at Sidney arrested 34-year-old Scott Fitch of Walton and 52-year-old Donald Barnes of Walton, for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Both subjects were charged on Monday December 24th, they were issued Appearance Tickets returnable to the Village of Walton Court at a later date.

A brand new Fender electric guitar, autographed by Bruce Springsteen & A new boxing glove autographed by Muhammad Ali will be among the featured items up for auction at Chenango River Theatre’s annual Winter Gala, on January 19th at the Silo Restaurant in Greene.  Bill Lelbach of the Chenango River Theater explains:

(Bill Lelbach)

The auction will be from 6:00 – 9:30 on January 19th at the Silo in Greene, Both the guitar & the boxing glove are currently on display at the Silo Restaurant. More information is available at chenangorivertheatre.org.

The Chenango County sheriffs department arrested 35-year-old Brian Copeland of Norwich for Petty Larceny.   Copeland is accused of selling a go-cart to another subject without the permission of the owner; he was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

A.m. news Monday 12-24-12

Binghamton University Police responded to a domestic dispute Sunday at a dorm, between 20-year-old Min Park and members of his family. Park is accused of stabbing his father in the head and face, when Park’s mother and sister attempted to break up the fight, they were both injured. All three were transported to Wilson Hospital where his father underwent emergency surgery.  Min Park was taken into custody and was charged with 1st degree Assault,  He was arraigned in Vestal Town court and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 42-year-old Elijah Nixon of Walton, for 2 counts for 3rd degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree Reckless Endangerment, Resisting Arrest and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia.   Nixon is accused of possessing cocaine with intent to sell, resisting arrest and striking a Deputy and Sheriff's Patrol car with his vehicle as he attempted to flee and avoid arrest. Nixon possessed $591.00 in cash and a public assistance benefit card.  Deputies anticipate additional charges will be filed at a later time. Nixon is being held on $100,000 cash bail pending a future court appearance.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office located a missing 13-year-old Hancock youth who was lost Sunday evening in the Town of North Norwich.  The youth was located by a Sheriff's Office Snowmobile Unit off Post Road in North Norwich about a mile from where he was separated from his father while hunting, he  was treated at the scene and released to his father.    The Sheriff’s Office received assistance from the Chenango County Fire Coordinator’s Office; Chenango, Madison and Onondaga County search teams; Norwich Fire Department; Norwich Police Department; LifeNet of New York helicopter; New York State Forest Rangers; New York State EnCon Police and State Police.

The River Club in Afton is offering free meals on Christmas day this year, to the struggling families in our region. River Club Owner Jack Flannery explains:

(Jack Flannery)

The event is free on Christmas day, from 12:00 to 2:00 at the river club in Afton, no reservations are required.

Adverse weather conditions overnight and this morning have led to numerous problems in the tri-county region.  NYSEG reports that about 1430 customers are without power, about 1000 of those in Franklin.  Police have responded to numerous accidents this morning due to slippery road conditions, they advise motorists’ drive with extra caution.

Former General Clinton Canoe Regatta chairperson Pam LeFever died Wednesday at her Unadilla residence, following a lengthy illness.  LaFever was an area business owner and had volunteered in a variety of local endeavors, including serving as the chair for the general Clinton canoe regatta for 6 years, and for supporting veterans serving in the military overseas.  Calling hours will be from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on Friday December 28th at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Main Street in Sidney, followed by a memorial service there at 3:00 PM.  Family & friends will gather at 4:00 PM at the Sidney American Legion on Union Street.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, 13820.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a one-car motor vehicle accident on County Highway 12 in East Meredith.  29-year-old Chris Mathewson of Davenport failed to negotiate a curve in the road, striking a bridge abutment.  Mathewson had left the scene prior to the arrival of police & was ticketed for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and failure to keep right.  Mathewson will appear in Meredith Town Court.

The Mohawk valley regional development council will receive over 59 million dollars for submitting 1 of the winning entries that were announced by Governor Cuomo Wednesday.  State senator Jim Seward supports the Governor’s regional ground-up approach:

(Seward)

Seward said that the partnership from area colleges, business and government officials would go for projects to improve on the local assets of agriculture, education and tourism.

New York State's economy gained 83,500 private sector jobs in 2012, according to the State Department of Labor.  The year-to-date gain of jobs was impacted by the loss of 29,100 private sector jobs in November 2012 due to the widespread impact of Hurricane Sandy on the greater New York City region. The State’s unemployment rate fell 4 tenths to 8.3% in October, but state officials noted that the monthly survey was completed a prior to Hurricane Sandy, next months report will reflect the effect of they storm.

The state Commission on Judicial Conduct reported that Gary Anderson of Bainbridge Town Court in Chenango County has resigned. Anderson is accused of mishandling cases in 2011 and 2012, failing to advise a defendant of the right to an attorney, inappropriately questioning defendants at arraignment and finding defendants guilty without a plea, trial or opportunity for cross-examination.  Anderson has served as Bainbridge court justice since November 2008.

State Police at Sidney arrested a 16-year-old male, of Afton for 2nd degree Harassment and Criminal Mischief. The arrest resulted from a domestic dispute complaint at a residence in Afton, The unidentified Teen was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $5000 cash bail and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

The Sidney Elks Lodge will hold their annual Free Throw “Hoop Shoot” contest on Saturday at the Boys & Girls Club of Sidney in the Sidney Civic Center. Registration for the Elks “Hoop Shoot” will begin at 9:00 AM; the free throw Contest is free and open to all Tri-Town area boys and girls ages 8 to 13. More information is available at 563-2012.

18-year-old Natasha Finch of Unadilla was arrested in the Otsego county Jail, for felony promoting prison contraband and felony criminal sale of a controlled substance.  Finch is accused of giving another inmate a narcotic; she was arraigned & was sent back to the Otsego County Jail where she is serving three 6-month consecutive sentences on a separate charge.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Joshua McKissick of Franklin, for one count of petty larceny.  McKissick is accused of stealing scrap metal from Town of Franklin property; he was released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Franklin Court on January 10th.

Hearings were held recently in Albany, regarding the future of family farms in New York State.  Assemblyman Pete Lopez comments:

(Lopez)

Dairy farms are currently trying to increase production, as the demand from milk from yogurts manufacturers like Chobani has exceeded their wildest projections; however the milk prices continue to be low to the farms.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 28-year-old Steven Pasternak of Clifton Park for Driving While Intoxicated.  Pasternak was charged following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Columbus, he was released on his own recognizance to appear in the Town of Columbus Court at a later date.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 35-year-old Edrick Rouse of Syracuse for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and 2nd degree Promoting Prison Contraband.  Rouse is currently an inmate at the Chenango County Jail; he is accused of possessing marihuana in his cell.  Rouse will appear in the Town of Norwich Court today to answer to the charges.

The southern tier regional economic development council was one of the 4 winners yesterday for state grants to pursue locally developed projects to promote regional job growth, state senator Tom Libous participated as was happy to see that money heading to this region:

(Libous)

Other projects will include helping the dairy industry meet the demands of the exploding Greek yogurt manufacturing segment of the upstate economy, other projects will team up area colleges and industry to promote job growth in other sectors of the regional economy.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 3 people on charges of 3rd degree Grand Larceny.  Deputies arrested 36-year-old Christopher Palmiter of Greene, 21-year-old Kyle Brothers of Barker and 19-year-old Cody Brothers of Barker for stealing 4 portable toilets from an area business.  Palmiter was arraigned in the Town of Greene Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $1,000 cash bail. Cody and Kyle Brothers were arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court and released on their own recognizance. All three defendants are to appear in the Town of Greene Court at a later date.

Oneonta city department of public service announced that a water main break occurred along East Street today.  Residents in the east street area near Woodside Avenue from Hazel Street to the gate near Bugbee Road have no water currently.  Crews are working to correct the problem; those with questions can call 432-2100.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 21-year-old Cheyenne Greenier of Afton on an active Bench Warrant from the Town of Norwich court for 5th degree Conspiracy.   Greenier was arraigned in the town of Norwich court and is being held on $1000 cash bail, and will appear in the Town of Norwich Court this afternoon to answer to the charges.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 31 year old Daniela Wilbur of Norwich for Petty Larceny. Wilbur was charged following an investigation of stolen prescription pills, from a residence in the Town of Plymouth. Wilbur was released on an appearance ticket for a later court date.

Mollianna’s mission is collecting condolences and cards from area residents, that will be sent to the families affected by the massacre at the sandy Hook elementary school in Connecticut last week.  The collection will be accepted through 5:00 this afternoon in front of the Bainbridge family dollar store.

On New Year’s Day, New Yorkers are welcome to meet Governor Andrew Cuomo at the Executive Mansion in Albany.  All adults over the age of 16 wishing to attend must have a ticket; those with a ticket will be allowed to bring one guest and any minor children from their household. Children must be accompanied by an adult. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit the Governor's website to register at governor.ny.gov/webform/mansionopenhouse.  The registration period takes place from Today until next Thursday, December 27th at 6:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS 12-19-12

Governor Cuomo announced the winning entries for the state economic regional development council awards.  The councils were established last year, with great success, the Governor credited those who volunteered their time to serve on the councils:

(Cuomo)

2 of the 4 winning councils were in the WCDO Listening area, with the Southern Tier council includes Delaware, Chenango & Broome counties, they were awarded 91.1 million dollars.  The Mohawk Valley regional council includes Otsego & Schoharie counties, they won 59.7 million dollars for their proposed projects. The other 2 winners were the Finger Lakes region with 96.2 million dollars & the Capital region with 50.3 million dollars.

The Chenango County Sheriffs Office arrested 24-year-old Corey Burns of Bainbridge on an active Arrest Warrant out of the Town of Norwich Court for 4th degree Grand Larceny and 5th Degree Conspiracy.  Burns was arrested after he turned himself in to Chenango County Court on other charges; he faces arraignment shortly at the Town of Norwich Court.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 62 year old Vincent Goffredo of Worcester for 2nd degree Harassment 2nd.  The arrest resulted from a domestic dispute complaint; Goffredo was arraigned in the Town of Worcester Court and was released pending future court action.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed 12 bills and vetoed 18 others Monday as the deadline to sign them approached.  Cuomo vetoed a bill that would have directed unclaimed bottle deposits to the Environmental (http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20121218/NEWS01/312180042/Andrew-Cuomo-vetoes-bills) Protection Fund; he also vetoed a bill that would have allowed Catskill Off-Track Betting to operate in New York City.  Cuomo signed a bill creating the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, to watch over the state’s care of the developmentally disable and mentally ill.

The Chenango County Sheriffs Office arrested 59-year-old Randy Brown of Oxford, for 3rd degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree and Defacement of a Weapon.  Brown is accused of illegally grinding off the serial numbers on the weapons; he was arraigned in the Town of Oxford Court & was released on his own recognizance and was ordered to reappear at a later date.

The Oneonta Police Department (https://www.facebook.com/oneontapolice?ref=stream) reminds area motorists that Wall Street is closed, today and tomorrow.  NYSEG crews are working on issues on Wall Street, which will be closed from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM each of the days.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 2 area women following a complaint registered from the Norwich Wal-Mart.  Deputies arrested 18-year-old Chauntel Carr of Oxford & 19-year-old Sarah Vantine of Sherburne, on charges of Petty Larceny, 6th degree Conspiracy and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  The pair is accused of stealing items from the store, while Carr brought her infant daughter with her.  Both were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office, State Police, State Forest Rangers, Norwich Police Department, and the New Berlin Police Department are continuing the investigation into the missing person’s complaint regarding 36 year old Jennifer Ramsaran of Sheff Rd in the Town of New Berlin.  Police said that she was last seen leaving her residence on the morning of December 11th for a shopping trip to Syracuse, her cell phone was found on state route 23 in the town of Plymouth on December 12th, her Chrysler Minivan was found a few days later in Norwich.  Law Enforcement agencies have established a command post at the Chenango County Sheriff's Office after executing search warrants on the residence Monday, anyone with information can call 337-1992, and all calls will be kept confidential.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 21 year old Tyler Dodge of Norwich for 3rd degree Assault in the Town of New Berlin.   Dodge was charged following an investigation by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, where he is accused of grabbing a female victim during a Domestic Dispute & causing physical injury. Dodge was arraigned in the Town of New Berlin court and released on his own recognizance.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30 year old Tiffany Ernst of Auburn on an arrest warrant issued by the Town of Delhi Court.  Ernst was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $2,500 cash bail.

State police and the Chenango county sheriffs department are continuing the search for 36-year-old Jennifer Ramsaran of South New Berlin, who was reported missing December 11th.  Ramsaran told her husband that she was heading to Syracuse to shop, her cell phone was found the following day on route 23 in the town of Plymouth, her maroon Chrysler Minivan was found Sunday in Norwich.  The investigation has shifted today to the wooded area behind the Ramsaran house on Sheff Road in South New Berlin.

The Chenango County Sheriffs Office arrested 18-year-old Spencer Franklin of North Norwich for discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a residence.  Franklin was arrested for allegedly shooting a shotgun within 500 feet of a residence; he faces court action at a later date.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 50-year-old Robert Verry of Greene for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs & unsafe Lane Change.   Verry was charged following a complaint on State Highway 12 in the Town of Norwich, he was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Norwich Court on a later date.

Chobani has agreed to pay a $130,000 in a negotiated settlement with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, after it was determined that the plant in Chenango county withdrew water without the required permits, Chobani uses about 800,000 gallons a day of groundwater, they have filed all necessary permits since complaints were lodged earlier this year.  Chobani currently employs over 1000 at their South Edmeston facility, and opened a second plant in Idaho this week to keep up with the huge demand for their Greek Yogurt products.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 46 year old Khing Ran Naing or Utica for Disorderly Conduct.  Naing was charged following a complaint at the Quickway gas station in the Village of Oxford. Naing was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $500 cash bail, he will re-appear in the Village of Oxford Court on a later date.

The Tri-Town Theater is looking to unearth local talent, with their “First Saturday” open Mike nights next year.  Spokesperson Andrea Whiteside explains:

(Andrea Whiteside)

The First Saturday Coffee House nights will begin on January 5th,  at the former Masonic Temple on Union Street in Sidney, more information is available at 563-8690.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department announced that the vehicle of 36-year-old Jennifer Ramsaran of New Berlin has been located in the City of Norwich.  Ramsaran was last seen leaving her residence on the morning of December 11th in the Chrysler minivan; anyone with information about her whereabouts can call the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office at 334-2000 option 1. All calls will be kept confidential.

The state comptroller’s office released the results of an audit on travel expenses at the state university at Oneonta.   Auditors focused their audit efforts on the highest-cost travelers in the State, each of whom incurred over $100,000 in travel expenses during the three-year period ended March 31st 2011. The report said that they found that the travel expenses of $326,000 for the 3 College employees were documented and adhered to State travel rules and regulations. College officials agreed with the conclusions and waived the opportunity to provide formal written comments to be included in this final report.

The state comptroller’s office audited the town of Fenton for the period January 1st 2011, to June 28th. The audit showed that The Clerk did not ensure that selected receipts were properly recorded and deposited timely and intact, nor did she provide adequate oversight of the employees that collect money in her office.   Also, the audit showed that The Board did not address the issues that it uncovered during their audit of the Town Clerk's books and records.  The comptroller’s office Recommendations include developing procedures that ensure the proper collection, recording and deposit of receipts & require the Town Clerk to correct issues identified in its annual audit.

State Troopers in Oneonta arrested 25-year-old Cory Merchant of Sidney for 3rd degree Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and on an active Bench Warrant issued by the Town of Amsterdam Court for Failure to Pay Fine.  The arrest resulted from a vehicle and traffic stop on State Route 23 in Davenport, Merchant was issued uniform traffic tickets returnable to the Town of Davenport Court for January 8th, he was then turned over to State police in Cobleskill to be transported to the Town of Amsterdam Court for arraignment on the Bench Warrant.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation to make the unlicensed practice of law a class E felony. Cuomo said that for most professions licensed by the State, unlicensed practice constitutes a class E felony but under current law, unlicensed practice of law constitutes a misdemeanor. The new law takes effect November 1, 2013.

The state Education Department released the list of 16 “persistently dangerous schools” & the Sidney middle school made the list again, the education department stated in their report that stated that schools are placed on the list when there are persistent reports of violent and disruptive incidents. Other upstate schools on the list were in Peekskill, Caroline, Berkshire, Greenburgh; South Seneca and Andover.

Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya will appear twice on NBC news programming today, he appeared on the “Today” show this morning, and will appear on “Rock Center” this evening.  Ulukaya started Chobani in Edmeston after buying a shut down factory in 2005, he credits his employees & the dairy farmers of the region for their success:

(Hamdi)

Ulukaya said that the company’s employment has grown by large numbers in the last few years, a new factory is opening in Idaho shortly to help service West Coast demands, and they opened a retail store in New York City earlier this year.

A New Quinnipiac Poll released Wednesday asked New York registered voters on the controversial natural gas drilling issue.  44% are in favor of drilling because of economic benefits and 42 percent opposed it due to environmental concerns.  Voters favored a tax on gas drilling companies by a 54% to 32% margin, and believe 78% believe that drilling will create jobs while only 15% believe that it would not create jobs.  50% of those polled also said that Hydro-fracking will damage the environment, 17% believe that hydrofracking would not damage the environment.

Former New York state comptroller Alan Hevesi has been released from prison after serving 20 months for officials misconduct.  Hevesi was convicted for his leading role in a “Pay to Play” scheme while overseeing the state’s pension fund.  Hevesi had served at the Mid-State Correctional Facility in Oneida County and was released after he was granted parole in court in November.  Hevesi was originally sentenced to from 1 to 4 years in prison for his guilty plea in 2010.

24-year-old Jaclyn Wesley  of Binghamton was indicted by a Broome County grand jury  on charges of vehicular manslaughter.  Wesley was arrested after she drove her SUV into the Chenango River from  I-88 in the town of Fenton on may 20th 2011, passengers Robert Moorehead,  Robert Marshall, and Carri Michalski were all killed in the crash.  Wesley was originally charged with 3 counts of first-degree vehicular manslaughter and 7 other charges, including DWI.

Governor Cuomo announced $1 million in federal funding to enhance the competitiveness of New York's agricultural products. The funding will support the research, development and promotion of specialty crops including fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops, and includes $200,000 to help support the growth of the state's wine, beer, and spirits industry.

A Broome County jury found Joseph Ross-Jones not guilty in connection with the death of 27-year-old Daniel Martinez.  Ross-Jones was accused of killing Martinez after a drug deal went bad.  Martinez was found by hunters in a wooded area of the town of Chenango on October of 2011.

The State DOT announced that crews would be removing work zone signs today on Interstate 81 between exits 3 & 4 & near exit 5 in the City of Binghamton.  The work will begin at 9:00 AM & should be completed 12:00 Noon.  Officials said that traffic will be reduced to one lane in those areas this morning.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 24 year old Joseph Santiago of Burlington Flats for an active Family Court Warrant.  Santiago was arrested for allegedly failing to pay child support, he was remanded to Chenango County Jail to commence 30 day sentence or pay $350 purge.

The Friends of Oneonta Theater have stepped up their commitment to keep the Oneonta Theater running for the foreseeable future.  Tom Cormier owns the building and has been operating the theater for the last 3 years, and had been concerned about keeping the venue open:

(Tom Cormier)

Cormier said that the theater will be used for as part of the Oneonta first night celebration new year’s eve, and an announcement will be made regarding the future operation of the theater at that time.

A new Quinnipiac poll released today shows that Governor Cuomo has a 74% approval rating of New York voters.  Cuomo received an 82% favorable rating from Democrats and 68% from Republicans, only 13% disapproved.  The polls were also favorable to US Senators Charles Schumer & Kirsten Gillibrand and President Obama, each receiving approvals from 2/3rds of those polled.

The state DEC will begin taking public comments today on their revised gas-drilling rules, even though the rules were not released by the November 29th deadline.  Public comments will be taken on the DEC website for 30 days, ending on January 11th. There are no plans for a public hearing.  The state has had a moratorium on shale gas development since 2008.

State Troopers in Oneonta arrested 17-year-old Charlmesha Graham of Albany, 18-year-old Mandisha Kelderhouse of Kingston, 18-year-old Cathie Labonte of Central Islip and 23-year-old Lavanessa Louis of Brooklyn for 2nd degree Harassment.  The arrests were the results of an altercation at Oneonta Job Core All were arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $150 cash bail.

There will be no moratorium on hydro-fracking in the village of Oxford, as the Village Board tabled the proposal during a special session this week.  The village board faced a potential lawsuit from the Central New York Landowner's Coalition, which is a local group of landowners seeking to sign gas leases with energy companies when the state DEC lifts the moratorium on gas drilling.

The Broome county sheriff’s department responded to a residence in the Town of Chenango, following the report of someone being forcefully held against their will.  The investigation revealed that a male subject was locked in his bedroom by his roommate and had also been struck in the face.   The victim escaped & called for police assistance, Deputies arrested 33-year-old Larry Daniel of Binghamton on charges of 2nd degree unlawful imprisonments the 2nd degree harassment.   Daniel was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court and remanded to the Broome County jail on $500 bail pending future court action.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced new regulations requiring nonprofit groups registered with the state, to report the percentage of their expenditures that go to federal, state and local electioneering. Those groups that spend at least $10,000 to influence state and local elections will be required to file itemized schedules of expenses and contributions & those disclosures will be released to the public.  Copies of today’s proposed regulations are available online at: www.ag.ny.gov/charity-disclosure-regulations (http://www.ag.ny.gov/charity-disclosure-regulations).

State Troopers arrested 21-year-old Kami Luce of Kirkwood and 18-year-old Travis Mills of Port Crane for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  The arrest was the result of a traffic stop on Tow Path Road in Fenton, Luce and Mills were both issued Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of Fenton Court to appear on January 3rd.

The Home Performance with Energy Star Program of New York is holding an open house for area residents and business owners today in Afton.  Spokesperson Solvei Blue explains:

(Solvei Blue)

Today’s open house will be at the Bolster Community Center in Afton, from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm, More information is available at 723-0110 or upgradeupstate.org/SouthernTier.

The United Way of Delaware/Otsego Counties will be distributing the final donations made to the Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee fund at the Delaware County Board of Supervisors meeting at 1:00 pm today, at the Charles Cook County office building in Delhi.  Organizations that will be receiving funding are Watershed Agriculture Council, Sidney Center Fire Dept, Trout Creek Fire Dept, Masonville Fire Dept, Franklin Fire Dept, and Delaware County Department of Social Services.

The State DOT announced that crews would be performing bridgework on Interstate 81 southbound over the Chenango River, between exits 5 and 4 in the City of Binghamton, beginning at 9:00 this morning.  Traffic will be reduced to a single travel lane; the work is anticipated to be completed by 3:00 PM.  Also crews will be removing concrete barrier on State Route 17 westbound between exits 72 and 71 in the City of Binghamton, starting at 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM.

The Sidney Central School District will be holding an Odyssey of the Mind meeting at 7:00 pm tonight in the High School Cafeteria. Anybody interested in being on a team or being a coach, should attend this meeting.

Emergency rooms and law enforcement are noticing increased Problems with prescription painkillers and heroin in Delaware County & surrounding areas in recent months.  Dave Ramsey of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Delaware County said that doctors, law enforcement & parents all have roles in trying to reverse this trend among teens:

(Dave Ramsey)

More information drug abuse, underage drinking and interventions are available by calling the council at 746-8300 or checking out their website at adaconline.org.

State police at Troop C in Sidney are continuing the investigation, after the discovery of a dog left at the side of state route 28 in the town of Franklin last weekend. The male mastiff was left at the site with food & water, he was taken to the Delaware valley Humane Society in Sidney, police are following up based on evidence left at the scene.

The Norwich Common Council will hold a special meeting tonight at 6:00 at the city offices, for the purpose of conducting 2 public meetings.  The common council will hold a hearing on the a proposal to override the states 2% property tax cap, the 2nd public hearing will be on the proposed 2013 city budget, which seeks a 9.8% tax increase.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 30-year-old Randy Moore of Portlandville for 2nd degree Criminal Contempt, following an investigation into a complaint on State Route 28 in Portlandville.  Moore was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable in the Town of Milford Court on December 18th; he was turned over to the City of Oneonta Police Department, for action on a City of Oneonta Court warrant of arrest.

Congressman Maurice Hinchey made one last trip around the Broome county portion of his congressional district yesterday to say goodbye to long time supporters.   Hinchey decided to retire at the conclusion of this year’s session, after 20 years in Congress, which followed a lengthy stint in the state legislature.  Hinchey’s district was split up into surrounding districts during the re-districting process this year, his constituents will be served by 2nd term republican congressmen Chris Gibson in the Hudson valley, and Richard Hanna in the southern tier.

The Boys & Girls Club of Sidney announced that the Sidney Youth Basketball Program is returning on Saturdays Morning starting on February 2nd, 2013 at the Sidney Middle and Elementary Gym. The program is open to all Sidney students in kindergarten to 6th grade.  The fee for registering is $10 and registration forms can be picked up at the Boys & Girls Club on the 2nd floor of the Sidney Civic or at www.bgcsidney.com (http://www.bgcsidney.com/). Registration forms need to be returned the Club by January 4th, information call (607) 561-2311 or email tritownbgclub@yahoo.com (mailto:tritownbgclub@yahoo.com).

The Federal Court of Appeals has upheld the convictions of 3 people who killed a Mohawk valley officer in 2006.  The court decided today that to upheld the convictions of Toussaint Davis, Marion Pegese and Robert Ward for the 2006 death of New Hartford Police Officer Joseph Corr. The trio had argued that their case should be re-tried due to legal errors, the court decided otherwise.

The New York Wine and Grape Foundation reported that 2012 was a record setting year for that industry.  The foundation stated that 17 new licenses were issued in 2012, bringing the number of wineries to 328 with nine more still pending.  In international wine competitions, New York wines received 88 "Best" designations, 565 gold medals, and 80 "double gold" medals which require unanimous decisions by the judges.  Governor Cuomo recently held a wine & spirits summit in Albany to seek input on ways that the industry can expand 2012 levels.

The Delaware county sheriff’s Deputies arrested 29 year old Patrick Ladd and 30 year old Walter Lewis of Pennsylvania, after the two men allegedly sold 73 bags of Heroin to a confidential informant under the supervision of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office. The drug deal and subsequent arrest took place in the parking lot of the Downsville Country Store Friday; Both men were charged with one count each of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree. Both men were arraigned at the
Town of Colchester Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $100,000.00 cash bail each.

The State Health Department announced that influenza is widespread, with laboratory confirmed cases in 52 counties.  The State Health Department recommends that everyone six months of age or older receive a flu vaccination. Children under six months cannot get a flu vaccination. Flu season generally runs from October through May. Over the last four years, there have been a total of 34 pediatric flu deaths in New York State and an average of more than 4,400 flu-related hospitalizations a year.  Additional information is available at the State Health Department web page at health.ny.gov (http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/).

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 29-year-old Randolph Staats of Unadilla earlier Saturday morning, for allegedly shooting his gun close to homes in an intoxicated state in the Town of Maine.  Deputies reported that Staats faces charges from both the Sheriff's Office and Environmental Conservation Officers, he is being held in the Broome County Jail on $2,000 bail on charges of Reckless Endangerment, Discharging a Firearm within 500 feet of a residence, Discharging a Firearm from the roadway.

Norse Energy (http://online.wsj.com/public/quotes/main.html?type=djn&symbol=NEC.OS) Corporation of Norway has filed for bankruptcy protection in US Bankruptcy court in Buffalo last week, as the state moratorium on natural gas drilling left the company unable to drill in 133,000 acres of in Central New York.  The company stated that they were unable to pay their bills as they waited for the State DEC to wrap up work on their gas drilling regulations, and begin drilling again after a 4-year wait.  The company has 32 million dollars in debt, and listed no assets.

The United Way of Delaware/Otsego Counties will be distributing the final donations made to the Hurricane Irene/Tropical Storm Lee at the Delaware County Board of Representatives meeting Wednesday in Delhi. The United Way collected $112,500 with 51% of this being designated to assist Delaware County needs.  Organizations that will be receiving funding are the Delaware County Department of Social Services, Watershed Agriculture Council & the fire departments in Sidney Center, Trout Creek, Masonville & Franklin.

State Police at Sidney arrested 24-Year-Old Ryan Olsen of Guilford, for Petty Larceny and 4th degree Criminal Mischief. The arrest resulted from an investigation into the theft of five hens and damage caused to a chicken coop on Crest Drive in Bainbridge; Olsen was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable in the Town of Bainbridge Court today.

Area municipalities will divide up $16,000 in grant money from the Preservation League of New York State.  Sidney will get the largest amount of $6,000 for placing downtown buildings on the state & national registry of historic buildings.  Other grants will go to New Lisbon, Garrattsville, Hartwick and Guilford.

State Troopers arrested 23-year-old Joshua Vannamee of Binghamton, for 2nd degree Aggravated Harassment and 2nd degree Criminal Contempt. The arrest resulted from an investigation regarding harassing phone calls; Vannamee was arraigned in the Town of Fenton Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail on $100 cash bail.

Sidney Elks Lodge will hold their annual Free Throw “Hoop Shoot” contest on Saturday, December 22nd, at the Boys & Girls Club of Sidney located in the Sidney Civic Center. Registration for the Elks “Hoop Shoot” will begin at 9:00am on the day of the event.  The free throw Contest is free and open to all Tri-Town area boys and girls age 8-13. Contestant eligibility and age groups will be determined by their age as of April 1st of 2013. More information is available by calling Steve Crawford at 563-2012.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office 27 year old Trinity Hafner of Norwich for DWI and other charges.  Hafner was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and 2nd degree Obstruction of Governmental Administration following traffic stop on State Highway 12, in the Town of Greene.  Deputies reported that Hafner drove a vehicle while intoxicated and attempted to switch places with another individual in the vehicle to appear not to be the driver. Hafner was arraigned in the Town of Greene Court & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $1,000 cash bail and will reappear before the Town of Greene Court on December 13th.

The state Senate IS SCHEDULED TO RETURN TO ALBANY THIS WEDNESDAY For a special session to pass several pieces of legislation.  The bills that are expected to pass include one that reforms the tax code, another that provides money for continued flood recovery and approves tax incentives (http://www.pressconnects.com/article/20121207/NEWS01/102020002/Libous-Tax-reform-flood-aid-BAE-incentives-pass?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE) to keep BAE Systems in the Southern Tier.  The package of bills would drop New York to the 6th highest income tax burden behind  Hawaii, California, Iowa, New Jersey and Vermont, the state has traditionally placed first or second in that dubious category.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 26 year old Diana Essig of Greene, for criminally possessing a Hypodermic Instrument.  Essig was arrested following an investigation into a reported larceny at the Norwich Wal-Mart; she was stopped for questioning and found to be in possession of hypodermic needles.  Essig was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $500 cash bail and is to re-appear in the Town of Norwich at a later date.

Chenango county Deputies & the Village of Sherburne Police Arrested a 16 year old Village of Earlville resident while investigating a one car roll-over accident in the Town of Sherburne.  While processing the accident scene a plastic bag containing marihuana was found.  The operator of the vehicle was processed and issued an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Sherburne Court at a later date.  The unidentified teen was charged with Unlawful possession of marihuana, speed not reasonable and prudent, and moved from lane unsafely, operating a motor vehicle with a NYS DJ license with more than two passengers under the age of 21.

The Chenango County Health Department will host a flu clinic today in Norwich.  The Flu Clinic will be held in the basement offices of the county health department at the Chenango County Office Building, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, appointment are requested at 337-1660.

The Unadilla chamber of commerce announced several Christmas activities in the village of Unadilla tomorrow.  Unadilla chamber president Jackie Carey explains:

(Jackie Carey)

Refreshments and special sales from Unadilla merchants will also be feature tomorrow during their annual Christmas celebration.

The Sidney center improvement group will host the annual “Holiday in the Hamlet” in Sidney center Saturday night.  Group Director Michael Sellitti explains:

(Michael Sellitti)

The Sidney center improvement group will also continue to work to improve surrounding waterways to prevent future flooding; the group was formed following the 2006 flooding of Carr’s creek.

Mannheim Steamroller will perform live for two performances at the Forum Theatre in Binghamton Sunday, at 3:00 & 7:30 PM.  Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, ticket master.com or at the arena box office.

The Chenango county health department has scheduled another free rabies clinic for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets on Saturday.  The event will be held Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30 at the city of Norwich fire station.  More information is available at 337-1673.

State Troopers arrested 27-year-old Manaseh Anim of Oneonta for Driving While Intoxicated and other Vehicle & Traffic charges. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on the Exit 14 ramp of Interstate 88 in Oneonta,  Anim was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the City of Oneonta Court on December 19th.

State Troopers arrested 66-year-old Robert Hoag of Colliersville for vehicle and traffic charges and on an Arrest Warrant issued by the City of Oneonta Court for 2nd degree Criminal Contempt.  The arrest was the result of a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the Town of Dickinson, Hoag was arraigned in the Town of Fenton Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail on $500 cash bail.

The Home Performance with Energy Star Program of New York is holding an open house for area residents and business owners next week in Afton. Spokesperson Solvei Blue explains:

(Solvei Blue)

Blue said that property owners should bring their several months of electric bills and should know the square footage of their house or business, the open house will be next Wednesday, from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm, refreshments will be provided. More information is available at 723-0110 or upgradeupstate.org/SouthernTier.

The Bainbridge Great American store re-opened under new ownership, after a being closed for a few weeks for renovations. Lisa Page is one of the 3 new owners of the store:

(Lisa Page)

Page, Tim Harmon and Ed Gorton purchased the store; they re-opened on this past Monday.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is asking for a few donations, as the weather has turned colder. The shelter is looking for donations of old bedding to keep the animals warm, as well as canned or dry dog & cat food, at the shelter on east Main Street in Sidney.

The Otsego County Board of Representatives passed their 2013 budget plan Wednesday in Cooperstown. County residents will see a 1.97% tax increase, just under the state 2% Cap. 8 county positions will be eliminated from the health department, highway department & office for the aging. The Otsego county budget goes into effect January 1st.

Residents of Norwich and the American Red Cross will join together for a “Communities That Care” blood drive on Friday, December 7TH from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Howard Johnson at 75 North Broad Street. The Red Cross is encouraging all eligible donors to make an appointment to donate blood by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by visiting redcrossblood.org.

MacDonald Hose of the Sidney fire department will hold their annual food drive Saturday in Sidney. The food drive will run from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Sidney Price Chopper store, canned & Dry goods will be accepted for local distribution

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced a settlement with insurer Excellus Bluecross Blueshield, which will require that they pay out refunds to patients and health care providers who overpaid due to improper accounting of deductibles. Excellus has so far made repayments totaling $3.1 million dollars, they had reported accounting errors affecting 12,000 customers processed after Sept. 1st. 2011, software glitches have been repaired.

Delaware County Solid Waste Management announced that their center in Walton would be closed Christmas day and New Year’s Day in the coming weeks. After the Christmas holiday, the center will accept trees, boxes & wrapping paper for recycling, at the solid waste center on state route 10 in Walton. More information is available at 865-5805.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple tractor-trailers MVA on Interstate 81 south in the Town of Kirkwood Tuesday morning at about 5:40 AM.   Deputies arrived to find numerous vehicles on fire, blocking all lanes and with a significant diesel fuel spill. The Preliminary investigation revealed that a southbound tractor-trailer from Canada, hauling canned goods, rear-ended a car carrier loaded with new SUV’s, 3 of them burst into flames. The second tractor-trailer then veered to the left, striking a third tractor-trailer and sheared open the fuel tank. The first truck, operated by Andrew High out of Ontario, Canada, also caught fire and came to rest partially in the median of Interstate 81.  High suffered a head injury and was transported to Wilson Hospital for treatment; he was ticketed for Following Too Closely. The investigation is continuing and further charges may be filed.  Interstate 81 South was closed for over 3 hours before opening two lanes of traffic.

Governor Cuomo will visit Broome County today.  The governor is expected to tour BAE systems as part of the Regional Economic Development Tour.  Regional economic councils are vying for state funds for economic development projects.

More than 70 NYSEG and RG&E gas fitters, gas supervisors, field service representatives and garage mechanics are supporting natural gas service restoration on Long Island, as the recovery from Hurricane Sandy continues. About one-third of the NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric employees arrived on Long Island on Monday, November 26th the remainder arrived there last Friday.  The NYSEG employees were dispatched from Binghamton, Oneonta, Norwich and many other locations.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 20-year-old Travis Demuth of Oxford for 2nd degree Criminal Contempt.   Demuth is accused of violating an active order of protection issued in the Town of Norwich Court; he was released on his own recognizance and is to reappear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

The state health department will officially observe World AIDS Day today, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany.  Today at 1:30 p.m., the State Health Department will honor young people and youth leaders from across the State for their leadership, compassion and extraordinary efforts in raising awareness of HIV/AIDS in schools or communities.  More information on World AIDS Day Expo activities is available at the Department of Health webpage at: www.health.ny.gov/WAD (http://www.health.ny.gov/WAD).

Jury selection began Monday in Broome County Court in the murder trial of Joseph Jones, who is charged with 2nd degree murder for the death of Daniel Martinez of the Bronx.  Martinez’s body was found stabbed and shot to death in a wooded area off Wilson Hill Road in the town of Chenango in October 2011.  Daniel Doherty of Binghamton is also charged with 2nd degree murder in connection with the Martinez killing.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 47-year-old Mary Brown of Plymouth on an Arrest Warrant.  Brown was charged for the failure to comply with conditions or release on previous Driving While Intoxicated and Resisting arrest Charges; she was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $20,000 cash bail pending future court action.

22-year-old Taqwon Griffin, of Binghamton has been charged with attempted murder in connection with a shooting at the Country Town Apartments parking lot in Binghamton.   Griffin was arraigned in City Court and remanded to Broome County jail without bail, in connection with the shooting Clifford Harris November 13th.

The state labor department alerted new Yorkers today, that If you receive an email supposedly from the NYS Department of Labor’s Contact Center that invites you to join “Beyond the Rack,” do not respond to it.  The email may contain phone numbers that are similar to phone numbers for the department’s Contact Center, the email is a scam, and officials urge you urge you to delete it immediately without opening it.

COMMERCE CHENANGO announced that the NBT BANK ANNUAL HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR will be held at 49 South Broad Street, Norwich today.  The event runs from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, holiday shoppers can purchase items to support the Chenango County Council of the Arts, Colorscape Chenango, Made in Chenango, The Place and The SPCA, also members are encouraged to bring boxed or canned goods to benefit Roots and Wings.

P.m. news Monday 12-3-12

The New York Farm Bureau will have their Annual Meeting at the Desmond Hotel in Albany tomorrow through Thursday.  There will be delegate sessions throughout the 3-day event along with two evening banquets; about 400 members are expected to attend.  The issue of the lack of a federal 5-year Farm Bill will be discussed and an annual agenda will be formulated at the annual meeting.

Chenango county sheriffs deputies arrested 48-year-old Christopher Lorimer of Norwich, for Felony Driving While Intoxicated, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, Resisting arrest, Refusal to submit to a chemical test and other vehicle and traffic law violations following an investigation into a traffic stop. Lorimer was allegedly speeding on County Road 10 in the Town of Preston and attempted to evade police, he was apprehended after a foot pursuit.  Lorimer was arraigned in the Town of Pharsalia court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail and is to re-appear in the Town of Pharsalia at a later date.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 26-year-old Robert Youngblood of Norwich on an active bench warrant issued out of the Town of Norwich Court.  Youngblood was located at his residence and was taken into custody without incident; he was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and was released on his own recognizance.

21-year-old James Duke was sentenced Friday afternoon in A Missouri Court room to life in prison without parole for the murder of Sidney native Kody Ray in 2010.  Duke & Jordan Martin were charged in the case, Martin was accused of driving James Duke to Ray's house & was also charged with First Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action, he faces court action at a later date.

The Sidney Center Improvement Group will host the annual “Holiday in the Hamlet” in Sidney center Saturday night.  Group chairman Michael Sellitti explains:

(Michael Sellitti)

The Sidney Center Improvement Group will also continue to work to improve surrounding waterways and land use practices in order to prevent future flooding, the group was formed following the 2006 flooding of Carr’s creek that claimed 2 lives.

The River Club in Afton is offering free meals on Christmas day this year, to the struggling families in our region. River Club Owner Jack Flannery explains:

(Jack Flannery)

The event is free on Christmas day, from 1200 to 2:00 PM at the River Club in Afton, no reservations are required.

The Otsego county sheriffs department arrested 58-year-old Richard Talbot of Otego for 7th degree possession of a controlled substance last week.  Talbot was charged after probation officers visited Talbot’s home and found Talbot to be in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia, violating the terms of probation from a previous conviction.  Talbot was arraigned and was remanded to Otsego County jail on $2,500 bail and faces court action Thursday.

The New York State Petroleum Council will be hosting a forum today on natural gas development in New York. Industry experts will answer questions and discuss the impact of hydraulic fracturing and the expansion of natural gas development. The event is from 5:30 to 7:00 PM; Registration begins at 5:00 PM at the Holiday Inn at 2 Hawley Street, Binghamton.

P.m. news Friday 11-30-12
State Police conducted a traffic safety initiative over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend to crack down on impaired driving, speeding and those who fail to use safety restraints. From November 21st to November 25th Troopers conducted 16 DWI checkpoints across the state and 7 saturation patrols on state roadways. State Police made 25 DWI arrests, 23 criminal arrests and wrote 414 vehicle and traffic tickets. 11 underage drinking initiative details checked 36 bars and 130 retail establishments across the state, Police made 21 arrests for providing alcohol to minors and 9 arrests for penal law violations. Over the Thanksgiving weekend, State Police responded to no fatal motor vehicle accidents.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors this week approved a $96.6 million budget for 2013. The spending plan will raise taxes about 3.9 percent, after the county recently got approval to go over the 2% state-spending cap instituted by the Cuomo administration last year.

The number of infections acquired by patients while in New York hospitals has declined since 2007,according to a new report issued by the State Department of Health. The report found that since 2007, the rate of central-line associated blood stream infections fell 41% and rates of surgical site infections fell 13%. The full report is available on the DOH web site at health.ny.gov/statistics

State trooper in Oneonta arrested 27-year-old Stephen Baldo of Oneonta, for Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and Driving with a Suspended Registration. Baldo was issued Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court on December 4th.

A group of local women will hold a fundraising effort to help 4 local charities next week in Sidney, Doreen Wakeman is one of the women who put together the “Bit Of Splendor” event:

(Doreen Wakeman)

The event will be held at the Sacred Heart church in Sidney on Liberty Street.

The Chenango county “Toys for Tots” program is gearing up for another busy Christmas season, helping to get presents under the Christmas trees of children in economically struggling families this year. Program spokesman Roger Barnhart said that there are 3 ways to contact the organization:

(Roger Barnhart)

The "Toys for Tots" Train is scheduled to visit Bainbridge on Saturday December 8th at noon this year.

Police are on the lookout for a man who robbed First Niagara Bank on Conklin Road for the 2nd time in 2 weeks.  State Police reported that a man walked into the bank Wednesday afternoon, handed the teller a note and left with cash.  Police are looking for a white male, about 5 feet 9 inches tall, wearing a dark brimmed knit cap, long pants, gloves, a dark colored sweatshirt & wearing a camouflage bandana over his face.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 30 year old Brandi Button & 39 year old Michael Bishop of Plymouth, on charges of 6th degree conspiracy & petty larceny.  Deputies arrested the pair following an investigation at the Norwich Wal-Mart for allegedly attempted to leave with a shopping cart of groceries without paying for the items.  Both were issued appearance tickets to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo said yesterday that the state will have to file for an extension for Thursday’s deadline on hydrofracking rules, which could mean the DEC would have to issue an updated set of proposals. Joint Landowners Coalition of New York president Dan Fitzsimmons said that the delays might be costing the state millions of dollars in tax revenue:

(Dan Fitzsimmons)

The coalition issued a statement claiming that they are cautiously optimistic that an end is in sight to the over four and a half year long regulatory process & they are encouraged that the Governor and DEC have a plan to avoid expiration of
the regulatory review process.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 27-year-old Shawn Wheeler of Earlville on an active Bench Warrant for failure to pay fines. Wheeler was arraigned in the Village for Sherburne Court and was released on his own recognizance after he paid his fines.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced a court victory in defense of the State’s gun safety laws. In a unanimous decision, a 3-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals rejected a constitutional challenge to New York's handgun licensing statute, ruling that the law requiring individuals to demonstrate “proper cause” to obtain a license to carry concealed handguns in public does not violate the Constitution’s Second Amendment.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 46-year-old Michael Stevens of New Berlin for Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Motor Vehicle. Stevens was charged after deputies uncovered a loaded rifle following a traffic stop in the Town of New Berlin. Stevens was issued an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

Newly re-elected congressman Chris Gibson, stated that he has joined a growing number of Republicans in congress to abandon the "Taxpayer Protection Pledge" forwarded by party leader Grover Norquist last year. Gibson represents Otsego & Delaware Counties in his new district, he had signed the pledge last year, but he said that he recognizes the need for more flexibility in his position. Richard Hanna represents Chenango & Broome Counties in Congress and recently won re-election as well, he did not sign Norquist’s pledge last year, and will not sign it this year.

State Police conducted graduation exercises Tuesday for its 2012 Basic Canine Handler School, at the State Police Academy in Albany. The 12 graduates include members from the New York State Police, Albany County Sheriff’s Department, Otsego County Sheriff’s Department and the Schenectady Police Department. The graduation is the culmination of 20 weeks of training at the Division Canine Training Facility located in Cooperstown, the state now has 74 Canine Units counting these weeks’ graduates. Among those graduating teams, Otsego county sheriffs department Deputy Keith Sheldon and his canine partner “Ricky”

The Chenango county sheriffs department investigated a 3 car motor vehicle head on accident on State Hwy 12 in the Town of North Norwich Monday. Investigators reported that 62-year-old Richard Webb of Sherburne failed to keep right and struck the vehicle of Larry and Eleanor Hall of Smyrna, head on. Deputies said that Gina Acee of Sherburne was unable to stop and struck Hall’s vehicle in the rear. Acee was uninjured; the Halls were transported to Chenango Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Webb was charged with Aggravated DWI with BAC of more than .18, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana, Open container in a motor vehicle, Unlicensed Operation and failure to keep right. Webb faces court action at a later date.

State Police arrested 41-year-old Gary Rosa of Delhi for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and 3rd degree Assault. The arrest resulted from dispute on Honest Brook Road in Delhi, Rosa was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court, remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $250.00 bail and is scheduled to reappear in the Town of Delhi Court today.

The Chenango county sheriffs department responded to the report of an accident Monday afternoon at around 4:50 PM on state route 12 at county road 44 in north Norwich. Deputies said that 43-year-old Marlette Yarnes-Halbert of Norwich was driving on route 12, when her vehicle collided with another vehicle driven by 74-year-old Ronald Sayles of south Plymouth. Sayles was charged with Failure to Yield Right of Way on a Left Turn, both drivers suffered minor injuries & were treated at the scene.

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 35-year-old Robert Martin of Delhi, on an active Arrest Warrant for Criminal Mischief and Harassment. Martin was charged in connection with a domestic dispute, where Martin is accused of damaging property & subjecting a victim to unwanted physical contact. Martin was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court & was remanded to the Chenango County jail pending future action in the Town of Plymouth Court.

Canadian Pacific’s Holiday Train will roll through the region on Wednesday, collecting donations for local food pantries while providing live entertainment at each stop. The train will be decorated with hundreds of thousands of lights starts the trip in Quebec on Today and makes its first U.S. stop the Wednesday night at the Steamtown Railroad Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The train then heads north to Binghamton for an appearance at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, followed by stops Thursday in Oneonta, & Cobleskill, the train continues east & then north Friday.

The Bainbridge Fire Department responded to a kitchen fire at 107 North Main Street late yesterday afternoon. Firefighters discovered that the flames quickly spread to other portions of the house; firefighters from Sidney, Afton and Coventry were called to assist. The investigation into the cause of the fire is continuing.

The Delaware county sheriffs department identified 53-year-old George Swan of Ridgewood New jersey as the motorist who died in a 1-car accident on route 206 near Downsville Sunday afternoon. Investigators believe that Swan drifted off the right side of the roadway, colliding with a trailer parked in an adjacent pull-off. Deputies are continuing their investigation into the accident.

The Norwich Fire Department was called to fire at 722 State Highway 320 for a trailer fire yesterday afternoon. Norwich firefighters received assistance from the north Norwich & new Berlin fire departments. State Highway 320 was shut down for 2 hours while crews worked to extinguish the fire. The investigation is continuing.

Oneonta city officials announced today that the public hearing for the 2013 city budget scheduled for 7:00 PM tonight at city hall would be conducted as part of a special meeting of the council, with a single agenda item on the budget. Following the public hearing, the budget may be approved as presented or amended and approved, or action may be deferred until the December 4th common council meeting. More information is available at 432-6450.