WCDO Radio News

NYSEG reported wide spread power outages throughout the region, from last night’s high winds.  The Walton area had the largest number with about 1000 customers without power this morning that forced the cancellation of classes at the ARC of Delaware County Walton facilities, as well as the closure of the Walton central school district. Power has been restored to walton and most affected areas today.

Delaware County Sheriff's Investigators, Deputies and K-9 "Ozzie", assisted by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit and members of the State Police executed a Search Warrant at the Tammy Fairbairn residence in Bloomville.  Law Enforcement officers seized 130 bags of heroin, about $1100 in cash and Public Assistance Benefit Cards.  Investigators arrested 46-year-old Tammy Fairbairn of Bloomville, 20-year-old Nakota Lame of Bloomville and 26-year-old Alamin McMillon of Syracuse, for 1 count each of 3rd degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  All 3 were arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Jail on bail, more charges are anticipated.

State Senator Tom Libous held a press conference in Binghamton today, he mentioned that he has discussed with Governor Cuomo his concerns about the proposal to close mental health facilities in Binghamton and Elmira, that would force some people to far away locations around the state, and force sex offenders into local group homes:

(Libous 11-18-13)

Libous said that he is also planning legislation to call for a freeze of the closing of mental health facilities until 2015 in order to come up with alternative plans.

State police in Sidney & the US Marshals fugitive task force apprehended 29-year-old Angelina Wilson of Conklin, who was wanted for absconding from the Pennsylvania Department of parole & probation, for her participation in gas station armed robberies around Halstead, Pennsylvania.  Wilson was caught while fleeing from a trailer park in Conklin, she was also found to be in possession of a hypodermic needle and syringe.   Wilson was arraigned as a fugitive from justice and remanded to Broome county jail pending extradition back to Pennsylvania.

The 2013-2014 HEAP season opens today, the federally funded program, is administered at the county level, it assists income eligible households in meeting their winter heating costs.  All applicants are encouraged to apply at mybenefits.ny.gov.

“Register Now” post cards are being mailed to 900,000 homeowners who have not re-registered for the “STAR” school tax relief program   those who have not re-registered will receive their postcards in the mail this week, reminding to register by the December 31st deadline.  Homeowners with basic STAR exemptions had to re-register this year after an investigation by the Tax department found that thousands received STAR Exemptions on more than one property.  Registrations can be performed at tax.ny.gov.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch announced that he would be hosting 2 town hall meetings next week.  The first meeting will be the Town of North Norwich, at 5:30 PM today at the town hall at 188 County Route 23, followed by a town hall meeting for the Town of Nanticoke tomorrow night at 6:00 PM at the Nanticoke Town Hall at 755 Cherry Valley Hill Road in the town of Maine.

Congressman Gibson submitted comments to the State Department of Health regarding the draft midterm revisions to the New York City’s Filtration Avoidance Determination.   Gibson stated that the Land Acquisition Plan needs  to be decreased from $50 million to $20 million over the next 5 years.  Gibson also said that Reservoir levels should be maintained based on a scientific and technical review of NYC water needs, new infrastructure improvements, and an analysis of the risk facing Upstate communities. Contingency plans should also be put in place in the event of the potential of significant weather events.

Assemblyman Pete Lopez will be holding town hall meetings for area constituents this week.  Tonight’s meeting will be for the towns of Worcester and Decatur at 7:00 PM tonight at the Worcester Central School Auditorium at 198 Main Street in       Worcester.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 33 year old Jonathan Hynes, who was arraigned on charges from a sealed indictment in Delaware County Court, for 2 counts of 1st degree Robbery, 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, 3rd degree Burglary, Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument & Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  The charges followed the investigation into the October 26th Stamford Country Store & the October 28th robbery Davenport Quickway robberies.  Hynes was remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail pending further action.  36 year old Jolene Hynes was also charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, she was arraigned in Stamford Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail and $2000 bond, pending court action on November 26th.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 38-year-old Geneia Rood of Pitcher, completing the investigation into the death of 3-month-old Brenna Quinn on September 5th in Pitcher.  Deputies reported that the infant died while being watched by Rood, who has been charged with 2nd degree Manslaughter.  Dr. James Terzian ruled the victim’s death a homicide, as the child had alcohol in her system. Rood was arraigned in Chenango County Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $50,000 cash bail; she will face court action on November 18th.

Delaware county Deputies arrested 3 people on a Sealed Indictment Warrants issued by the Delaware County Court.   42-year-old Amy Mills of Franklin was charged with 2 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling prescription medications, she was arraigned in the Delaware County Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000.00 cash bail or $10,000.00 insured bond.  Also, 39 year old Stephanie Townsend of Sidney was charged with 3 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance and 45 year old James Townsend of Sidney was charged with 1 count of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, they are accused of selling prescription medications, they were both arraigned & were remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail.   Sidney Village Police Department assisted deputies during the investigation and the subsequent arrests.

The Oneonta town board is expected to act on their annual budget proposal at tonight’s meeting.  The budget totals 1.2 million dollars; with a tax levy increase of 1.2%.  Tonight’s meeting will be held at the Oneonta town hall in west Oneonta starting at 7:30 PM.

The Sidney Memorial Public Library will host a presentation of New York state health Navigators tonight at 6:30.  The presentation is a chance for uninsured individuals under the age of 65 to have access to affordable health insurance options.  The program is free & open to the public.

The Otsego county Chamber of Commerce NETWORKING LUNCHEON PIZZA PARTY will be held today at Stella Luna from 11:45 to 1:30 PM today. More information is available at 432-4500.

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics reported that  $105 million was spent on lobbying in the first 6 months of the year, the lowest amount in 5 years.  Philip Morris tobacco spent the most at nearly $1.6 million, 2nd was the New York State United Teachers union, 3rd was The Greater New York Hospital Association which spent $1.1 million, and New York State United Teachers union, which wants to build a new stadium in Queens, spent $842,000.  Lobbying amounts have decreased by 19% since Governor Cuomo’s first year in office.

Delaware County Sheriffs Deputies Arrested 25 year old Eric Ball of Oneonta for DWI, operation of a motor vehicle with a BAC greater than .08, refusal to submit to a breath Test & speeding.  Ball was arrested following a traffic stop for speeding on State Route 10 in the Town of Walton. He was released to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo announced $10 million in Brownfield Opportunity Areas grants for 26 communities throughout the state. The grants provide funding for municipalities to implement revitalization strategies to redevelop impacted sites. Locally, the City of Norwich will get $90,000 to complete a revitalization plan for a 591-acre area with 33 vacant and Brownfield sites located at former industrial sites on the City's east side and for new commercial developments in downtown.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 29-year-old Bradley Lidell of Cincinnatus on an active Bench Warrant.  Lidell was picked up on a warrant issued out of the Town of Pitcher Court for failure to appear on Aggravated Unlicensed Operation charges, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $1,000 cash bail.

The Health & Wellness Fair will be held at the Southside mall in Oneonta tomorrow.  The event runs form 11:00 to 4:00 PM, a variety of health care professionals will be participating.

Governor Cuomo signed the Farm Cideries bill that establishes a new license for farm cideries similar to the licenses already available to farm wineries, breweries and distilleries. This  legislation follows through on promises made to farm cideries after the Wine, Beer and Spirits Summit held by the governor. The signing coincides with the beginning of CiderWeek NY through October 27th; more information is available at ciderweekny.com.

The Otsego county sheriff’s department arrested 16-year-old John Gardner of Morris for unlawfully fleeing a police officer, reckless driving, obstructing governmental administration, resisting arrest, unlawful possession of marijuana and multiple vehicle and traffic violations.  Gardner is accused of attempting to flee deputies, who attempted to stop him from driving an ATV at a high rate of speed through Morris.  Gardner was apprehended in a wooded area & fought with authorities, he was arraigned in Morris Town Court and sent to Otsego County jail on $1,000 bail, he posted bail & was released, he’ll reappear in court at a later date.

16 organizations in the region are received grants from the Community Foundation for South Central New York’s Community Fund and Women’s Fund fall 2013 competitive grant cycles. Local Organizations that won awards were Broome County United Way, the Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship of Delaware & Otsego counties, Delaware Opportunities, the Kopernik Observatory, the 4 County Library System, Girls on the Run & Opportunities for Otsego.   More information about the Foundation can be found at donorswhocare.org.

Residents in the town of Sidney will be voting for a new town supervisor in November, as incumbent Bob McCarthy is not running for a 2nd term.  Republican Gene Pigford is running for town supervisor, who told WCDO news about his ideas:

(Gene Pigford 9-18-13)

Pigford faces democrat & Sidney First Candidate Bill Heath for Sidney town supervisor on Election Day in November.

Governor Cuomo today visited the Village of Margaretville in Delaware County for a New York Rising Community Reconstruction Planning Committee.  Planning experts, community officials, and residents gathered to kick off the long-term rebuilding process following Tropical Storm Lee & Hurricane Irene in 2011 that devastated Margaretville. The New York Rising Community Reconstruction Program is designed to empower communities to create and implement their strategies to rebuild and prepare for future extreme weather.  The governor was also planning to attend a NY Rising meeting in Staten Island, which was heavily damaged from Super storm Sandy.

State Troopers in Deposit arrested 19-year-old Travis Decamp of Sanford, for driving while intoxicated with a reportable BAC result twice the legal limit.  The arrest followed an accident investigation on Old Route 17 in Sanford; Decamp was issued tickets returnable to the town of Sanford court on October 7th.

A total of $99,400 in cultural funding is available from the Chenango Arts Council for initiatives in Broome, Chenango and Otsego counties. Funding is available for grants up to $5,000 through the 2014 Decentralization Program.  The grants provide support to community-based organizations, groups, collectives or artists. The deadline for the grant application is December 11th; Guidelines & applications are available at chenangoarts.org.

About 9,000 state workers could get a raise and a regular salary review if Governor Cuomo signs legislation proposed by state Senator John DeFrancisco of Syracuse.  The bill would affect state workers designated as managerial or confidential, who are not represented by unions, & who have not had a raise since 2008. The proposal calls for the state to create a commission to analyze salaries of non-unionized state workers and report recommendations about pay changes every four years. Governor Cuomo has until September 27th to sign or veto the bill.

New York’s 16 medical schools have more students this fall than last year, including the first in a pair of three-year programs that allow students to graduate faster and with less debt.  Associated Medical Schools of New York states that the 2,424 new medical students represent an enrollment increase of 120 over last year. More than half are state residents, nearly half are women and 3 percent are international students. Most programs last four years with annual tuition ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.

Congressman Chris Gibson and his Watershed Advisory Group released a position overview on the State Health Department’s draft midterm revisions (http://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/nycfad/) to the New York City Filtration Avoidance Determination. Gibson said that the current plan by the city to purchase land in the watershed region is unacceptable, with the money used for land purchases better suited for flood mitigation and upstate economic development.  Gibson also said that the reservoir should be set at levels that meet new York city’s drinking water needs without endangering watershed communities above & below dams, in order to prevent flooding.   The revisions were published by the DOH in late August, and are currently in a public comment period.

State Police Employee Relations, announced that 35,203 people have signed up to take the exam.  The exam will be held at various locations around the state on October 5, 12, 19 and 26.  Troopers expect to place a recruit class from the eligibility list created by the October test during the summer of 2014.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 20 year old Cortney Hess of Grand Gorge, 24 year old Howard Macken of Grand Gorge and 37 year old Jason Conklin of Prattsville after an investigation of stolen scrap metal from Catskill Craftsman in Roxbury.  Deputies were alerted to this larceny through security cameras on the property.  All face action in town of Stamford court today at 6:00 PM.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 20 year old Christopher Bracci  of Delhi for Driving while Intoxicated, Failure to Submit to a Chemical test, Improper use of Dealer plates and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana.  He was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court. He was sent to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $1,000.00 cash bail.

The Delaware county department of public health nursing announced another Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets.  The clinic will be held today at Tractor Supply Company at 6396 State Highway 23 in Oneonta, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. more information call 607-832-5200, more information is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com

Several local fire departments worked into the early morning hours today fighting a fire that gutted the Bluestone Grill in Hancock. The fire was called in at 10:30 p.m.last night. Crews from Hancock, Deposit, Walton and East Branch responded. There were no injuries, and there was minimal damage to surrounding homes. Deleware County fire investigators are looking into the cause.

Police arrested a Windsor a man for allegedly stealing nearly $20,000 worth of merchandise from a Conklin business. Broome County deputies arrested 44 year old Greg Rought, who is charged with stealing tools and gift cards from E. Systems Group in Conklin on Aug. 14. Rought was arraigned in Town of Dickinson Court and sent to the Broome County jail. Anyone with any information should call the Sheriff's Office at 778-2053

In an effort to promote economic growth, community leaders in Delaware County are proposing a new project at SUNY Delhi to create more business opportunities by recycling waste water. The project would take waste water from the Delhi Waste Water Treatment facility and recycle it through an irrigation system on campus golf course. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined campus and community leaders earlier this week in support of the project. Leaders hope Gillibrand will go to bat for them, as about half of the funding for the $2 million plan is still needed and the project is eligible for federal grants. Construction is anticipated to begin next spring.

State Police arrested 66 year old Stephen Hay of Sidney Center for DWI with a BAC of .09% following an investigation into a property damage accident on Sherman Hill Road in Franklin. Hay was issued tickets for Town of Franklin Court September 12.

About 1,200 homeowners, renters and business owners affected by the June floods received checks yesterday to help them repair and rebuild. Gov Cuomo appeared at Herkimer County Community College to give an update on the flood recovery and state funds to assist with that effort. The checks represent $13.6 million in state funds awarded to those affected by the flooding in the Mohawk Valley, Central New York and Niagara County. Additional checks will be issued as more applications are processed.

US Senator Charles Schumer is trying to make a connection that would bring up to 600 jobs to Delaware County. The jobs would be created at a call center to be built in Hancock. Schumer says he's pushing for funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. For more information, go to scumer.senate.gov.

Celebrating the end of the summer? Make sure you’re not drinking and driving, or you may end up with a Labor Day ticket. State and local law enforcement agencies have been out in force since Aug. 16 with sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols to deter drunk driving. Law enforcement agencies will also crack down on drivers whose ability is impaired by drugs, both illegal and prescription. Nationally, someone is killed every 51 minutes on average in a drunk-driving crash. The majority of these crashes involve drunk drivers who have nearly twice the legal BAC of .08 or higher.

Governor Cuomo announced 16 winners, across the state, of a statewide competition to form public-private partneships to prepare high school students for high skill jobs in technology, manufacturing and healthcare. Students can earn an associate degree at no cost. Partnerships include Broome Community College, Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton and United Health Services. For more information, go to governor.ny.gov.

Governor Cuomo announced that most DOT construction projects in New York state wil be suspended over the Labor Day weekend. The Governor's "Drivers First" inititatve prioritizes the convenience of motorists and ensures that disruptions are as minimal as possible to motorists. For real time travel information, call 511 or go to 511ny.org

Stamford Mayor, 65 year old Michael Jacobs, died unexpectedly Saturday when he collapsed at the annual Delaware County Republican pig roast at the Delaware County Fairgrounds in Walton. Jacobs, a lawyer with Jacobs and Jacobs in Walton, had started his third term in March. He died of a heart attack at Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton. Village Trustrees are meeting this afternoon in Stamford to appoint and acting mayor.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested a wanted man along with a Town of Coventry man for weapons, drugs, and burglary charges. 29 year old Eric Nelson of Afton and 29 year old Rory Tanner from Coventry allegedly stole an AR 15 rifle along with a 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun from a residence on Tracy Rd in the Town of Bainbridge. The two then sold the AR 15 which was later recovered by police. Nelson then sold the 12 gauge shotgun to an undercover police officer in the Town of Coventry. At the scene officers located hypodermic needles and heroin residue. Nelson was also arrested on an arrest warrant for two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Nelson was arraigned in Town of Bainbridge Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $3,000 bail. Tanner was arraigned in Town of Coventry Court and sent to the Chenango County jail on $5,000 bail.

A small earthquake has shaken homes in the Adirondacks region near Lake George. US Geological Survey monitors say the magnitude 2.7 quake happened near the Warren County town of Warrensburg at about 9:30 a.m. yesterday. Local emergency centers got calls reporting shaking and a rumbling sound, but no damage.

This year's freshman class at the State University at Oneonta arrived this past weekend. The class will have about 1,100 students out of an applicant pool of over 12,000. The high school average for an average student from this class is over 91%. The average combined SAT score is over 1130. This year's freshman class includes 28 students from Otsego County, 10 from Chenango County and 8 from Delaware County. The freshman class at Hartwick College in Oneonta will arrive August 29th.

Revitalizing upstate New York’s economy will be the focus of The Business Council of New York State’s 2013 Annual Meeting September 25-27 at The Sagamore Resort on Lake George. The Annual Meeting provides three days of information and entertainment, creating a forum focusing on improving the state's business climate and economy. This year’s agenda focuses on the economy, education, politics, and healthcare. For more information, call 1.800.358.1202

The State Department of Health announced revisions to the New York City water system’s 2007 Filtration Avoidance Determination have been drafted and will be released for public review and comment. Among the components are watershed protection programs in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Irene and Lee in 2011. They include provisions for New York City to fund a local flood hazard mitigation program. It also includes an increased number of stream restoration projects.

The 2013 Hazardous Waste Collection Days for Otsego County households will be Friday September 13th. at the Unadilla Town Highway Building. The second collection will be at the Meadows Office Building in Cooperstown on Saturday September 14th. You must pre-register August 27th through Spetember 10th. You can register online at OtsegoCounty.com/solidwaste, or by calling 547-4228.

The White House confirmed Wednesday that President Barack Obama's two-day bus tour will stop in Binghamton, along with Buffalo, Syracuse and a stop in northeastern Pennsylvania.  According to a White House official, the president will be traveling through New York and Pennsylvania Thursday, Aug. 22 and Friday, Aug. 23

Governor Cuomo continued to say that there is no timetable for a decision on the return of Hydrofracking to New York State.  State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton told WCDO News that a decision has to be made soon, after 5 years of waiting:

(Libous 8-15-13)

Currently, the decision of Hydrofracking rests with the findings of the state Health Department.  A gas-drilling moratorium has been in effect for almost 5 years, hydrofracking started in Western New York in 1979.

The trial of 25 year old Binghamton resident Jaclyn Wesley began in Broome County Court yesterday.  In May of 2011, Wesley was driving her Ford Explorer when it went off Interstate 88 west in the town of Fenton and into the Chenango River.  There were 4 people in the vehicle and Wesley was the only survivor.  The bodies of 39-year-old Carri Michalski, 25-year-old Robert Moorehead and 45-year-old Robert Marshall were later recovered from the river.  Wesley is facing seven misdemeaners including driving while intoxicated in the case.  The trial continues at the Broome County Courthouse.

Tompkins County and the Town of Enfield declared local emergencies Wednesday afternoon due to the numerous damages caused by last week's storms.  Damages exceed four hundred thousand dollars and the compromised waterways and infrastructure could threaten private properties in the case of another storm.  The repairs are beyond the capacity of what the local government can manage and the county is calling on New York State to provide assistance.

A group of junior sailors from Camp Comstock were out on Cayuga Lake Wednesday when the winds picked up and waters became too rough.  A camp counselor attempted to rescue the three campers in a motor boat, but began taking water on board and the boat began to sink. Others from the camp went out in canoes and jet skis to try and bring them in. Trumansburg Fire and Rescue, along with the New York State Park Police Marine Unit and the Ithaca Fire and Rescue Marine Unit, responded to the scene and were able to rescue the boat operator.  Two campers were taken to Cayuga Medical Center for treatment of head injuries.  Officials said the use of life jackets helped make sure there was no loss of life.

Two men who led Pennsylvania State Police on a high-speed chase Monday morning have been arrested.  33 year old Erich J. West, and 21 year old Ryan J. West, both of Wellsboro, were wanted on several warrants. They had been spotted driving a stolen vehicle on state Route 660 in Richmond Township.  The two led police on a high speed chase through several townships before turning onto Scouten Hill Road where they abandoned the vehicle in a wooded area and fled on foot.  A search of the area after the incident was unsuccessful.  The suspects were arrested at an undisclosed location at a later time.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will be closing County Route 20 in the town of Masonville from Monday to Friday, August 19th to the 23rd to replace a large culvert.  Work is expected to be complete by 3pm Friday the 23rd.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 34-year-old Hayes Cutting of Bainbridge on a Parole Warrant & for Resisting Arrest.   Cutting was located in Bainbridge, & after deputies informed Him that he was being placed under arrest for Parole Violation for a previous charge of 2nd degree Assault, he attempted to flee the scene on foot. Cutting was taken into custody a short distance away and charged with Resisting arrest. Cutting was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail and will appear at a later date in court for the additional charge.

The next Delaware county Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets at will be held today at the Franklin Fire Hall on Main Street.  The clinic will run from 4:00PM to 6:00PM.  More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The Sidney chamber of commerce will hold their next regular meeting today.  The meeting will begin at 7:45 this morning at the Sidney golf & country club, chamber members & directors are encouraged to attend.

The next Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets at will be held today in Sidney.  The clinic will be held at the Sidney Fire Station on River Street from 6:00PM to 8:00PM, more information is available at 832-5200 or at Delawarecountypublichealth.com.  Other rabies clinics will be held today at the Morris Fire Department from 6 to 8pm and Thursday, at the New Berlin Fire Station from 7 to 8:30pm.

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The Eastwood Summer Classic Tour is coming to the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich this morning.  The event is a weeklong vacation tour sponsored by Streetrodder Magazine.   The Tour started in Pottstown, Pennsylvania & will end in Syracuse for the east Coast Nationals Car Show.  About 25 cars will be cruising in between 9:00 and 11:00 this morning and will be parked outside the Museum during the tour.

AM NEWS 7-10-13

Johnson City Police arrested 43 year old Christopher T. Davis of Johnson City and charged him with second degree murder. Davis allegedly killed his downstairs neighbor, 50 year old Patricia LaCaprara Monday in the course of an apparent burglary at 36 Brown St. in Johnson City. Davis was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility. Also arrested in the course of the investigation was 20 year old Binghamton resident Zachary Franks, who was charged with several warrants. Police are still investigating if Franks had any involvement in the case. Davis and Franks told authorities they are relatives. Anyone with information about the case can contact the Johnson City Police Department at (607) 798-9321.

The annual Gus Macker 3 on 3 basketball tournament will be held this weekend in Norwich. The event features over 400 teams from ages 7 to 50 plus and brings thousands of spectators to the area. Organizer Tom Revoir said they are still in need of Gus Buster volunteers....

(Revoir)

Revoir added that Court Monitors for the adult courts are especially needed. If you are particpating in the Macker, there have been some minor bracket changes and you are asked to go to Macker dot com to see if your team is affected.

New York teachers have until August 1 to apply for a $60,000 stipend over four years to reward strong performance. The state Master Teacher Program, a component of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's education reform agenda, will enlist 250 math and science teachers from four regions this fall to mentor early-career educators. Under the program, the selected participants will receive $15,000 a year for four years. Applications are availale now online at www.suny.edu/MasterTeacher.

The New York State DOT will hold a public information meeting tonight to discuss a project to replace a bridge on State Route 30 & 206 over the East Branch Delaware River in the Town of Colchester. The meeting will be held at the Colchester Town Hall located at 72 Tannery Road, Colchester, at 7:00 PM. The bridge has been in use for 60 years and DOT inspectors have determined that it needs to be replaced. Three alternatives will be discussed at the meeting.

The 124th Afton Fair and Agricultural Exposition begins on Thursday with gates opening at 9am tomorrow morning. Activities through out the fair include Animal exhibits, Children's activities, Harness Racing, the Youth Dairy Show. The K Bar F Rodeo is Thursday night, I-88 Speedway racing on Friday night, The Open Horse Show on Saturday and Sunday, and Kaitlyn Jackson performs Saturday night with fireworks to follow at dark, and Sunday will feature the Afton Fair Idol Contest, along with the Catskill Garden Tractor pullers and T.O.Y.S. Tractor Pull. Sunday will also feature a Classic Car Cruise-in from 1-5pm at the Afton Fairgrounds. The Complete schedule can be found online at The Afton Fair Dot Com.

Otsego county public health announced that a child safety seat check will be held today at the Oneonta Home depot from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. Parents & expectant parents are invited to make an appointment for the event at 547-4230; parents are reminded to bring the manual for their safety seat that they are currently using.

The Norwich City Police Department are removing the body of a woman found near the Norwich Wal-Mart, in an area that they have been searching in since they found the gold Pontiac owned by 51 year old Krista Kosowky of Norwich.  Kosowsky was reported missing by her husband after failing to show up for work on Friday in Clinton, a Police Canine unit discovered the body in water near a railroad right-of-way this morning, the woman’s identity and cause of death will be determined by an autopsy.

The national weather service in Binghamton has once again posted a Flood Warning today through tomorrow morning at 10:00 AM, for in the area of the Chenango River At Norwich.  Officials said that the Chenango River At Norwich Will Continue To Recede Today And Tonight, Before Dropping Below Flood Stage On Thursday Morning.  Some flooding may still be experienced today at on the Streets and in the yards Of Homes On East Main Street Near The Chenango County Fairgrounds as well as Within The Fairgrounds.  East Main Street was reopened to traffic this morning, but the 2nd annual music & balloon festival scheduled for tomorrow July 4th at the Chenango county fairgrounds in Norwich has been cancelled due to the flooding, organizers will announce alternate plans for the event shortly.

Oneonta will be the site for the annual hometown 4th of July celebration tomorrow.  Activities are scheduled from noon until dark in Neawha Park, wrapping up with the annual fireworks display at about 9:20 PM.  More information is available at hometown4th.com.

Oneonta police charged 56-year-old Patricia Bennet of Oneonta with driving while ability impaired by alcohol and unsafe backing, after she allegedly backed her SUV into 8 Hazel Street Monday night.  No injuries were reported, the residence is owned by Oneonta city judge Lucy Bernier, Bennet will appear in Oneonta city court at a later date.

The New York State DOT will hold a public information meeting on July 10th to discuss a project to replace a bridge on State Route 30 & 206 over the East Branch Delaware River in the Town of Colchester.  The meeting will be held at the Colchester Town Hall located at 72 Tannery Road, Colchester, at 7:00 PM.  The bridge has been in use for 60 years and DOT inspectors have determined that it needs to be replaced. Three alternatives will be discussed at the meeting.

Following another round of flooding in part of assemblyman Pete Lopez’s district, Lopez said that the need to do something pro-active needs to be attacked quickly:

(Lopez 7-3-13)

Lopez said that he likes a model now used in Vermont that allows local officials & residents to have public meetings and implement flood prevention plans quickly.

The supply of types O positive and O negative blood at the American Red Cross is at very low levels.  Eligible donors with type O blood are asked to donate blood today at a Blood Drive on July 11th at Guernsey Memorial Library in Norwich, at 3 Court Street, from 9:00 to 2:00 pm.  Appointments can be made at 1-800-RedCross or redcrossblood.org.

Otsego county public health announced that a child safety seat check will be held on Wednesday July 10th at the Oneonta Home depot from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.  Parents & expectant parents are invited to make an appointment for the event at 547-4230; parents are reminded to bring the manual for their safety seat that they are currently using.

The vehicle of Krista Kosowsky of Norwich has been located in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart store in Norwich.  Kosowsky was heading for work from Norwich top Clinton during the storms Friday afternoon; she never made it to work.  Kosowsky is described as a white female, about 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 240 pounds, anyone with information should call Norwich police at 334-1212.

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The National Weather Service had flood warnings in effect this morning, along the Mohawk River at Utica and Little Falls, flooding was reported again this morning on route 12 in Sherburne & Norwich, where City officials reported that East Main Street, between Marshall Street and County Road 32, near Matthews Ford & the Chenango County Fairgrounds is closed due to flooding.  Olendorff Place and Barnes Street are also closed from flooding; all will be closed until further notice,

Montgomery County officials reported that the body of 87-year-old Ethel Healey has been recovered from the Mohawk River last night, after she was swept away in her mobile home in floodwaters Friday.  Healey's body was found in storm debris at Canajoharie, about 3 miles from Fort Plain, this is the only death so far attributed to the recent storms.

State Police received a report of a vehicle with multiple Vehicle and Traffic Law violations being operated by EDWARD SHERMAN on State Route 206 in Masonville.  A pursuit began when Sherman refused to stop. He was followed onto Randell Hill Road where he intentionally drove his pick up truck into 2 patrols cars, causing extensive damage.   Sherman then drove away and led the remaining patrol vehicles onto numerous roads; he again struck 3 more police vehicles and fled the scene on foot. Sherman was located about 3 hours later in a field, he was arrested for 4 counts of Reckless Endangerment, 4 counts of Criminal Mischief, and Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle. Sherman was arraigned in the Town of Franklin Court and remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $30,000 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo today announced the formation of the “Commission to Investigate Public Corruption” under the Moreland Act, to probe corruption in state government, political campaigns and elections.

(Cuomo 7-2-13)

The Commission will have the power to subpoena and examine witnesses under oath, it was formed after Several lawmakers faced criminal accusations including former state senate leaders Joe Bruno, Pedro Espada, Hiram Monserrate, Malcolm Smith & John Sampson.

The Southern Tier Chapter of the American Red Cross has been actively responding to flooding in the Utica, Oneida and Mohawk Valley since late last week.  Officials said that Sherburne is getting clean up kits and water, which is being delivered, to the Sherburne fire department for distribution.  The red cross is fundraising to help cover the costs for the assistance to those affected by the recent flooding, Donations to “Disaster Relief” can be made at your local Red Cross office, online at redcross.org, 1-800-RedCross or to the Southern Tier chapter office at 785-7207.

State comptroller Tom DiNapoli released the results of the audit for the Town of Hamden.  The report said that the (http://www.osc.state.ny.us/localgov/audits/towns/2013/hamden.pdf)town board has not properly monitored budgets and managed fund balance in the general fund. The board has consistently relied on fund balance to fund operations, which has depleted town resources. Although fund balance has rebounded somewhat in 2012, there has been a 69 percent overall decline in reported unassigned fund balance since 2008.

A.M. NEWS 6-11-13

The Chenango county sheriffs department arrested 48-year-old Richard Vanderwarker of Norwich for DWI, & operating a motor vehicle with .08 BAC of .1% or more of alcohol.  Vanderwarker was charged following a traffic stop in the Town of Preston for moving violations, he was found to be intoxicated.  Vanderwarker was taken into custody without incident, and was processed to appear in the Town of Preston Court at a later date.

The Chenango county Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division arrested 28-year-old Desiree Prosser for allegedly promoting prison contraband. The Corrections Division intercepted mail that was being sent to an inmate in the Chenango County Correctional Facility, with the mail sent from Prosser contained a bag heroin.  Prosser was arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail pending court action.

Governor Cuomo’s Cabinet Members continue to tour the state to explain the Tax Free New York Economic Development Proposal.  Today at 1:00 PM Deputy Secretary of State Dee Dee Scozzafava will discuss the proposal at BCC at the Decker Health Science Building in Room D201.  The program offers tax-free location for business on or near SUNY Campus to operate in conjunction with curriculum and draw students to stay and work for those companies after graduating.

The Delaware County public health department hosts another Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets today.  The event will be held at the Walton Highway Garage on state route 10 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM.

State Troopers in Oneonta arrested 37-year-old Nathaniel Young of Franklin for 2nd degree Criminal Mischief and 3rd degree Menacing. The arrest resulted from a dispute on State Route 23 in Oneonta; Young was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and released on $750 cash bail.

Governor Cuomo and United University Professions union announced the ratification of a contract between the state and the union of 35,000 SUNY employees. 77% of UUP members voted in favor to the agreement, the State Budget Office estimates that the deal will save taxpayers $87 million in wages through a Deficit Reduction Program & changes to health benefits will save $99 million over the contract period.

The Walton Central School District & The Walton police state police & the Delaware county sheriffs department continue to work together following another threat to students posted on Facebook this week.  No actual incidents have occurred at the district after any of the threats against Walton elementary school students.  Security has been beefed up, and the investigation is continuing.

The Sidney central school district is holding their summer camp program again this summer, with registrations now going on through the school website.  Sidney superintendent Bill Christensen comments:

(Bill Christensen 6-5-13)

The Open House regarding the summer camp program is tonight at 6:00 in the Sidney high school auditorium, the summer camps are open for students outside of the Sidney district.

Binghamton police arrested a Brooklyn man on drug charges, following a routine traffic stop Tuesday.  Police confiscated 19 grams of crack cocaine & 10 envelops of heroin during a traffic stop of 39-year-old Nicklas Williams of Brooklyn.   Williams is currently being held until his arraignment, on a variety of felony drug charges.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch will be hosting an informational forum Tuesday, June 25th on the NY SAFE Act at the Port Crane Fire Hall.   Crouch, will be joined by Broome County Sheriff David Harder & Broome County Clerk Richard Blythe at the Forum, which will run from 7:00 to 9:00 PM.  More information is available at 518-455-5741.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced that he has adopted new regulations that will require nonprofit groups, “social welfare” organizations, to make better disclosures of their political campaign activities.  Effective today, nonprofits that are registered with the state will now be required to report the percentage of their expenditures that go to federal, state and local electioneering. Groups that spend at least $10,000 to influence elections will be required to file itemized schedules of expenses and contributions. Those disclosures will be available for public scrutiny on the Attorney General’s NY Open Government website (http://www.nyopengovernment.com/).

Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested Ganesh Remy Ramsaran of New Berlin, in connection with the murder of his wife Jennifer, who was reported missing December 11th of last year by her husband.  Jennifer Ramsaran was found dead in February in the Town of Pharsalia in a wooded area.  WCDO will have further details as they become available.

The State Office of Emergency Management continues to monitor effects of the earthquake that occurred this morning near Ottawa, Canada, and was felt throughout parts of New York State. There have been no reports of damage to any of the state’s critical infrastructure. No injuries were reported.

Mollianna's Mission is holding their 2nd  Annual Family Day Festival tomorrow at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge.    The event starts at Noon with musical acts, arts & crafts, vendors, with the full schedule at familydayfestival.org.   There will be a parking charge with the proceeds going to Mollianna’s Mission, according to mission spokesperson Melissa Matthews:

(Melissa Matthews 5-17-13)

Mollianna's Mission Inc. was recently designated as a “not for profit incorporation” that assists families financially with the costs associated with lost pregnancies or infants.

Governor Cuomo asked pro gas groups to do more to allay the fears of the public with regard to misconceptions about natural gas development. The Joint Landowners Coalition of New York will host an event regarding water & health issues & the state proposed gas-drilling regulations, at the Legislative Office Building in Albany, on Thursday, May 30th from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.  A panel discussion with gas drilling & health experts is scheduled, followed by a question & answer period.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s department arrested 51-year-old Denise Wells of Bainbridge for Driving While Intoxicated.  Deputies responded to the report of an intoxicated woman who had driven to a Norwich business.   Wells was released on appearance tickets and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 39-year-old Cheryl Hoxie of New Berlin for 3rd degree Forgery and Petty Larceny.  Hoxie is accused of forging a signature on checks that she had stolen, and cashed them at local banks, she was released on appearance tickets and is to appear in the Town of New Berlin Court and the Town of Norwich Court at later dates.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 31-year-old Jason Ransford on a charge of 2nd degree Harassment issued by the Town of Stamford Court stemming from a domestic incident. Ransford faces court action at a later date.

New York State yogurt processors were the top producers with 692 million pounds of yogurt in 2012, beating out California by more than 100 million pounds.  The increases production follows Governor Cuomo’s Yogurt Summit last year, where regulations will lifted on May 8th to help New York Dairy farms with 200 to 299 mature dairy cows.  The new regulations can be found on DEC's website at dec.ny.gov/regulations (http://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/87499.html%5B1).

State Senator Jim Seward announced passage of legislation to create a new website: ResultsNY.gov.  Seward explains the purpose of the site:

(Seward 4-19-13)

Seward said that the proposed website is patterned after the federal Office of Management and Budget's ExpectMore.gov website. The bill will be sent to the assembly for consideration.

Delaware County District Attorney Investigators issued a criminal summons to 40-year-old Jessica VanAlstyne of Delhi for 1st degree Offering a False Instrument for Filing and 5th degree Welfare Fraud.  VanAlstyne is accused of offering a document to the Department of Social Services with false information, and that she received an overpayment of $412 in benefits as the direct result of failing to provide her entire income.  VanAlstyne was taken into custody turned over to the State Police on unrelated charges.

State Troopers in Oneonta arrested 31-year-old Kristen Lawrence of Hamilton for Driving While Intoxicated.  The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on State Route 23 in Morris; Lawrence was issued tickets returnable in the Town of Morris Court.

State Police at Sidney arrested 24 Blake Pifer  of Columbus  for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on I-88 in Sidney.  Pifer was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Sidney on January 12, 2012.

Governor Cuomo unveiled a new "utility scorecard" to hold utilities accountable for power restorations after a significant outage using a quantitative assessment of electric utility performance, as part of the State's efforts for more aggressive review and evaluation of utilities following Super storm Sandy. The proposed scorecard will be issued by the Public Service Commission for public review and comment to ensure the performance metrics are the most comprehensive and effective.  The scorecard follows last year’s response time by several utilities after the hurricane, which the governor took issue with.

Delaware County District Attorney Investigators and New York State Parole arrested John Tubbs Jr. of Walton on a warrant issued by New York State Division of Parole. Tubbs is a level 3-sex offender; he was turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending further action by Division of Parole.

Students entering grades 8 and 9 this fall will have the opportunity to spend two days in M.A.S.H. Camp, August 13th & 14th at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich.   The 2-day M.A.S.H. Camp will showcase a variety of health care careers through hands-on workshops for students, Space is limited to 20 students & The deadline for applying is Friday, May 3rd. Students can access the online application at  www.cnyahec.org (http://www.cnyahec.org/).

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

34-year-old Jaella Davis of Binghamton has been charged with 1st degree assault, following a domestic dispute.  Davis is accused of stabbing her boyfriend, he was brought to Lourdes Hospital where he was treated for a stab wound that was not life threatening.  Davis face arraignment today in Binghamton city court.

Lawmakers in Albany are now working on campaign finance reform proposals, designed to open up the process to everyone who wants to run for public office.  Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver comments:

(Silver 4-17-13)

The state assembly & state senate are both back to work this week, they are also expected to deal with tightening up ethics reforms after the recent string of arrests of 4 state lawmakers from New York City.

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.

P.M. NEWS 2-13-13

Area Republican Congressmen Richard Hanna & Chris Gibson and 15 Republican Colleagues sent a letter to Speaker John Boehner and Majority Leader Eric Cantor urging that the House of Representatives reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.  The Violence Against Women Act was first signed into law in 1994 and subsequently reauthorized in 2000 and 2005.  During the 112th Congress, both the House of Representatives and Senate passed their own versions but no final legislation was presented for a vote in either chamber.

The Chenango county sheriff’s department arrested 33-year-old Cory Demorier of Sidney,  in the Town of Greene on an active arrest warrant Issued by Chenango County Family Court. Demorier was remanded to the custody of the Chenango County Correctional Facility to be released upon payment of purge consisting of $600.

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver proposed a state version of the Dream Act that would help make college more affordable for children of undocumented immigrants by allowing them to qualify for state financial aid programs:

(Silver 2-13-13)

The bill would also create a private, state-overseen scholarship fund, to be called the Dream Fund, to further assist children of parents who came to the U.S. illegally.  Silver’s proposal, projected to cost the state about $20 million per year, which may bring opposition from assembly members at a time of continued austerity.

State Troopers in Oneonta arrested 50-year-old Frederick Jenkins of New Berlin for Driving While Intoxicated Monday. The arrest resulted from a motor vehicle accident on County Highway 11 in Laurens,  Jenkins was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Laurens Court at a later date.

State DEC Commissioner Joe Martens Reported that his agency could approve shale gas permits before hydrofracking regulations are completed if a separate study determines the controversial drilling method will not threaten the public health.  Martens said that state Health Commissioner Nirav Shah indicated he needs a few more weeks to finish a health review  hydrofracking.  Dr. Shah’s statement means that the DEC would not get the final draft regulations in place by the February 27th deadline, which would then require a whole new round of public comments.  Hydrofracking was halted 4 ½ years ago in New York State, it was used in western counties of the state since 1979.

The Delaware county sheriff’s department investigated a 1-car accident on scotch mountain road in the town of Delhi.  25-year-old Sean Wahl of Wolcott left the roadway, struck several trees, causing extensive damage to his vehicle, he was not injured.  Wahl was issued a summons for imprudent speed and was released, he was ordered to appear in Delhi town court on February 26th.  On January 26, 2013 a Village resident was arrested

The Chenango county sheriff’s department  arrested 19-year-old Amanda Sgoi of Walton for an active Family Court Warrant for a violation of a previous Family Court order..  Sgoi  was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge and remanded to Chenango County Jail on $1,000 bail.  Sgoi will appear in the Chenango County Family Court at a later date.

State Troopers arrested 19-year-old Ryan Vanfleet of Goshen for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and 18-year-old Devin  Clark of Warwick for Criminal Possession of Marihuana.  The arrests were the result of a traffic stop on State Route 17 in Windsor, Vanfleet and  Clark were issued Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of Windsor Court on February 26th.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State has been awarded a $185.8 million federal grant to implement its State Health Benefit Exchange to make it easier for New Yorkers to obtain affordable health insurance coverage.  New York was 1 of 5 states to receive a Level 2 Exchange Establishment grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that will help develop a marketplace for New Yorkers to get affordable health insurance.  Open enrollment in New York's Health Benefit Exchange will begin October 1st.

The 77,000 member Joint Landowners Coalition issued a statement regarding the potential for the DEC to miss the February 27th Deadline for the release of the regulations for Hydraulic Fracturing for natural gas.  Coalition CEO Dan Fitzsimmons told WCDO News that the idea of waiting for health studies before Hydrofracking starts is ill timed:

(Dan Fitzsimmons 2-5-13)

DEC Commissioner Joe Martens also was greeted by busloads of New Yorkers against Hydro-fracking, following his meeting with lawmakers in Albany Monday.  Martens said that he was not worried about missing the February 27th deadline, as he was waiting for a Health Department study on the possible effects from Gas Drilling by Hydrofracking.

Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills announced that new defibrillators are needed for emergency responders throughout the County. The last fund-raising drive to purchase them was conducted in 2000, in 2011; Public Health donated 4 new defibrillators to replace the most outdated models. It is estimated that each new defibrillator will cost approximately $2,000. Donations can be made payable to the Delaware County Sheriff's Office at 280 Phoebe Lane, Suite One, Delhi, 13753 and designate "Defibrillator Fund" on the reference line.

O’Connor Hospital in Delhi and Tri-Town Regional Hospital in Sidney are now using electronic medical records instead of paper patient charts.  The hospitals are now connected electronically with Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown; the end result will demonstrate improvements in care coordination, efficiency in health care delivery, medication safety. All information for each patient is securely contained in one consolidated electronic record, making that information available no matter where the patient is seen for follow-up care within the Bassett Healthcare Network.

New York Farm Bureau officials testified at a budget hearing in Albany yesterday, regarding the Governor’s proposed agricultural portion of the Executive budget.  Farm bureau supports funding for animal health programs, programs to assist farm families directly, & the Governor’s plans to follow up on the Wine, Beer and Spirits Summit from last fall.  Farm Bureau is asking for the Legislature to consider increasing funding up to $1,000,000 for promotion and marketing activities for New York’s apple growers after last years crop losses from a spring frost, and for the restoration of marketing funding for maple producers & Christmas tree growers.

The Cooperstown Art Association will be hosting “An Artistic Discovery,” High School Art Competition for Otsego County High School Students.  The competition runs from March 8th through March 29th, 6 students will be awarded ribbons and a digital image of their artwork will then be submitted to Congressman Chris Gibson’s office for final selection in the next phase of competition, 1 student’s work will go on to be displayed in the US Capitol along with 49 other high-school artists’ work from across the country.  More information is available at 547-9777.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 2 men Monday following a street stop, and execution of search warrants on their persons and a vehicle, in Binghamton.  50-year-old Robert Jones was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence, & a Parole Violation, he was found to be in possession of 2.8 grams of crack-cocaine, 50 envelopes containing heroin, and $728 cash. Jones is accused of attempting to discard the drugs as Investigators approached, & he was out on Parole for Attempted Murder in New York City.   Also arrested during the traffic stop was 36-year-old Charonn Stotts of Johnson city, for criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was found to be in possession of 100 envelopes of heroin, and $1,452 cash.  Both were arraigned in the City of Binghamton Court and were remanded to the custody of the Broome Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

Governor Cuomo announced that New York State will become the first state to require all hospitals to adopt best practices for the early identification and treatment of sepsis, a medical condition which is the number one killer in hospitals and the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States. These measures, which will be implemented through regulations issued by the Department of Health, will save an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 lives per year.  Sepsis is a progressive shutdown of the body's organs and systems caused by systemic inflammation following infection that enters the blood or soft tissue and over 200,000 die from it nationwide each year.

The DELAWARE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES will hold another free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets today at the Delhi Fire Hall At 140 Delview Terrace Extension.  The clinic will run from 6:00PM to 8:00PM, more information is available at 832-5200 or at delawarecountypublichealth.com.

The State Police announced that a website and hotline have been established to answer all questions about the New York SAFE Act. The website is set up through The Governor’s Office at nysafeact.com, where gun owners and licensed dealers will find a list of frequently asked questions that have been compiled and answered by experts on this new law.  There is also a section on what is and is not considered an assault weapon, with photos of weapons, banned features, a list of some of the banned weapons, and those firearms that are NOT considered assault weapons.  The State Police have established a hotline 1-855-LAW-GUNS, available today, during normal business hours Monday through Friday and will be staffed by State Police members.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office responded to the report of a bicyclist being struck by a car early Sunday morning.  30 year old Bradley Murray of Binghamton, was struck by a vehicle driven by 34 year old Branden Bowen of Waverly, on Upper Court Street in Kirkwood, Murray was taken to Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City where he later died from his injuries.  Bowen was charged with felony DWI; he was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.  .

Delaware County Public Health will be holding a Flu clinic today from 1:00 PM until   2: 30PM by appointment only, at 99 Main Street in Delhi.  Public Health has a limited supply of Flu vaccine for ages 3 and up, the cost of the vaccine is $25.00, and insurances will not be billed.  More information is available at the State Health Department website at: health.ny.gov/diseases (http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/).

The deadline to submit a comment regarding hydraulic fracturing returning to New York, ended Friday afternoon oat 5:00 PM.  Thousands of comments were submitted over the course of the DEC accepting comments over the last few year’s, they may render their decision on hydraulic fracturing by February 27th.

Delaware County Public Health will be holding a Flu clinic on Monday, January 21, 2013 from 1:00 PM-2: 30PM by appointment only, at Delaware County Public Health, 99 Main St, Delhi, NY 13753.  Public Health has a limited supply of Flu vaccine for ages 3 and up, the cost of the vaccine is $25.00, and insurances will not be billed.  To make an appointment for the flu shot people must call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.  More information is available at the State Health Department website at: health.ny.gov/diseases (http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/)

Commerce Chenango announced that Development Chenango Corporation has been awarded $250,000 to establish a Main Street Grant Program in the Village of New Berlin.  New Berlin Mayor Terry Potter commented:

(Terry Potter)

The funding from the New York State Office of Community Renewal will leverage an additional $84,000 from the owners of the 6 downtown buildings that will be renovated.   4 other Chenango county projects were also funded Sunrise Family Farms in Greene; the Village of Greene to conduct a sewer collection engineering study; DCMO BOCES & Golden Artist Colors.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 22-year-old Koby Marble of Oneonta for Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. The arrest resulted from a DWI road check in Oneonta, Marble was issued tickets returnable in the Town of Oneonta Court on February 2nd.

State DMV Commissioner Barbara Fiala will deliver Governor Cuomo's State of the State address in Norwich tomorrow.   The presentation will be held at the SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus at 20 Conkey Avenue beginning at 11:00 AM.  RSVP is required at 721-8605.

State Police at Sidney arrested 21 year old Michael Brady of Long Beach and 20 year old Jeremiah O’Brien of Wantagh for Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop on Interstate 88 in Sidney, Both were issued Appearance Tickets returnable in the Town of Sidney Court on February 14th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a one-car motor vehicle accident that occurred on State Highway 17.  24 year old  Sarah Stenuf of East Syracuse was traveling east when her vehicle left the roadway and struck the guide rail, she was transported to Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris to be evaluated and was released.

State Police at Sidney arrested 30-year-old John Barriger of Walton, for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. The arrest resulted from a traffic stop in Masonville, Barriger was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Masonville Court on February 19th.

NYSEG is beginning a new round of stray voltage testing their service area, it involves hundreds of thousands of pieces of equipment from transmission, distribution, streetlight poles and traffic signals to substation fences, pad-mounted transformers and manhole covers.  Stray voltage is an electric current in the earth, or in ground water, resulting from the grounding of electrical equipment or an electrical distribution system. This testing is required by the New York State Public Service Commission.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has declared the State of New York in a Public Health Emergency in response to the severe flu season.  The Executive Order that will allow pharmacists to give flu shots to anyone between the ages of six month and 18 years.  More than 19,000 cases of the flu have already been reported in New York, 2 children have died as a result of the flu.

On Friday, Sidney school officials announced that during one of the high school lunch periods, 7- .22 caliber shells were found and given to a school administrator.  At the time the shells were found, students were at lunch and contained in the cafeteria.  Principal Eben Bullock was able to track down the source of the shells and was able to bring quick closure to the situation.  At no time was there a threat, nor was there any reason to believe there was any type of weapon.

40 year old Robert Wilsey of Harpersfield was arrested following a joint investigation by the Delaware and Otsego County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Divisions and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in cooperation with State Police.  Deputies charged Wilsey with 2nd degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance following the execution of a search warrant, for allegedly possessing over five ounces of Oxycodone powder, with a street value of $50,000.  Wilsey was arraigned in the Town of Stamford Court and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail. Wilsey is expected to face additional charges shortly as the investigation continues.

The Chenango County Sheriffs Office arrested 57 year old Gregory Manwarren of Smyrna for 4th degree Criminal Mischief 4th and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.  Manwarren was charged after a domestic dispute in which he caused damage to a motor vehicle, He was arraigned in the Town of Plymouth Court and was released on his own recognizance to appear in the Town of Smyrna Court at a later date.

Police agencies in Tompkins County executed a search warrant in the Town of Lansing, leading to the seizure of crack cocaine and the arrest of a Lansing resident. The New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team, Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, and the Groton and Ithaca Police Departments announce the arrest of 27 year old Travis Anderson of Lansing, for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree  after police discovered 2 ounces of crack cocaine, a small amount of marihuana, a loaded 12 gauge shotgun, digital scales, and materials used to package and sell crack cocaine.  Anderson was arraigned & was remanded to Tompkins County Jail in lieu of $25,000 cash / $50,000 property bond.