WCDO Radio News

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced that the Filtration Waiver granted to towns & counties in the City's upstate Watershed has been granted for another 10 years. The agreement was reached 20 years ago after lengthy negotiations between the City, The State & a coalition of local leaders from the towns affected by the original onerous regulations proposed in 1989. The agreement allowed for New York City to receive water from the upstate reservoirs without building an expensive filtration system.

The City of Oneonta announced that City Hall would be closed on Monday, New Year's Day. Oneonta City Hall will re-open on Tuesday January 2nd, a Common Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening at 7:00 PM.

Due to the amount of calls & inquiries about Governor Cuomo's executive Order regarding prepaying taxes, The Guilford Town Clerk's office announced that they are now open today, until 1:00 PM. More Information is available at 895-9966.

State DOT officials announced the completion of a $3.9 million replacement of the State Route 7 Bridge over the Norfolk Southern Railroad in the Town of Worcester. Construction of the new bridge was expedited and completed in one construction season, replacing a bridge that opened in 1941. Approximately 2,000 vehicles per day travel the Route 7 Bridge.

State Police are investigating an accidental shooting that occurred in a residence in the town of Guilford this morning. The name of the deceased & the shooter have not been released, the investigation is on going.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested an unidentified 16 year old at the DCMO BOCES Harrold Campus in the Town of Masonville Tuesday, following an investigation into a physical altercation involving a weapon on school grounds. The youth was charged with 1 count of 3rd degree Assault & 1 count of Menacing. The teen was arraigned in the Town of Colchester Court and released into the custody of his guardian, pending further action by the Town of Masonville court.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 27-year-old Jonathan Howard of Walton Thursday for leaving the scene of a property damage motor vehicle accident, making an unsafe lane change, and obstructing government administration. Howard is accused of leaving the scene of an alcohol related crash in an attempt to elude arrest by law enforcement. Howard was later released on appearance tickets returnable to Walton Town Court at a later date.

The Oneonta Clerk's office announced that City Hall will be closed on Monday, Christmas Day. The Operations Planning & Evaluation Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday has been cancelled, The Finance/Human Resources Committee will be held Wednesday at 5:00 PM, & on Thursday at 4:00 PM the Examining Board of Plumbers meeting will be held as scheduled. All meetings will be held in the Common Council Chambers on the 2nd floor.

The Sidney Main Street revitalization Project is wrapping up the work on one side of Main Street this week, except for the planting of trees perennials & grass that will be planted in the spring. Ian Law of Place Alliance explains:

(Ian Law 12-4-17)

The other side of Main Street will have construction begin in the spring, with plans calling for that side to be finished in time for the Hometown Day Parade in June.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 37-year-old Timothy Heady of Smyrna, fur unlawful manufacture of Methamphetamines. Heady was arrested as deputies were conducting a follow up in reference to a burglary in the area; Deputies were then assisted by the State Police Crime Scene Contamination Unit. Heady was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on cash bail; he will reappear in the Town of Smyrna Court at later date.

State Police arrested 65-year-old Joaquin Delgado of the Bronx, for Aggravated DWI, with a B.A.C. result of .20% and other traffic violations, after troopers responded to a report of a car in a ditch on Phillips Odell Road in the town of Guilford. Delgado was not injured; he was issued tickets returnable to the town of Guilford Court on January 18, 2018.

The Oneonta Parks & Recreation Committee will hold their next regular meeting today, that meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the Oneonta Common Council Chambers at City Hall.

Chenango County Court Judge Frank Revoir made only a mild adjustment to the bail of Ernest Franklin of Guilford this week. Franklin's cash bail remained the same at $125,000, bond was reduced from $250,000 to $200,000 Thursday, Franklin is accused of planning the murder of his special needs son Jeffrey Franklin & setting fire to the family home to cover up the murder. Heather Franklin is currently out on bail; both will be tried separately next year, according to Chenango County DA Joe McBride.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Teachers' Association is hosting its 7th Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, tomorrow at the Greenlawn Elementary School Gymnasium. BG High School Teacher Amy LaFever told WCDO News that the proceeds would benefit the BG Angel Fund:

(Amy LaFever 12-1-17)

Among the activities from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM tomorrow, will be crafts for children, a Chinese Auction, a bake sale, and $5 pictures with Santa, plus a pancake breakfast in the Greenlawn cafeteria, more information is available at 437-7896.

The annual Afton Christmas Parade will be held downtown tomorrow, spokesperson Kyle James explains:

(Kyle James 12-1-17)

The event is sponsored by the Friends of Afton; more information is available at their Facebook page, or by calling 208-5005.

The Jericho Arts Council will have a performance with teh Binghamton Madrigal Singers Saturday evening at 7:00 PM at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, Spokesman Phil wade explains:

(Phil Wade 12-1-17)

Wade said that tickets atre avaialebl at the box office at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, Tickets can be reserved by calling 288-3882.

The Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual “Jolly Holly Days” celebration this evening in Downtown Sidney. The annual Parade will start tonight at 6:00 PM, followed by a Tree Lighting Ceremony, & Santa will be see area children at his headquarters at Whitaker Way.

The Bainbridge Guilford Girls Volleyball Team plays in the State Class D Semi-Finals tomorrow in Glens Falls. Bobcats Head Coach Tami Selfridge told WCDO that the school and the community have rallied around this team:

(Tami Selfridge 11-17-17)

The Lady Bobcats begin Pool Play at 3:00 PM Saturday & if they advance they will play for the State Title Sunday at 2:00 PM. WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull will have live updates on Twitter or at WCDOSPORTS.COM from each BG game.

State Senator Fred Akshar and Assembly Members Donna Lupardo and Cliff Crouch have released answers to the many questions posed by the community regarding the planned repurposing of the former Broome Developmental Center to bring new Addiction Treatment Services to the community. The document compiles questions raised at the October 26th Town Hall Meeting, with answers from the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, Syracuse Behavioral Health, the Broome County Department of Social Service and the Broome County Health Department. The document can be found at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov; nyassembly.gov/Donna Lupardo or nyassembly.gov/Clifford Crouch.

Bassett Healthcare Network is currently holding their annual "Coats for Kids" event. Interested residents can drop off new or gently used children's coats at Bassett Healthcare Network locations or at any First Choice Cleaners before Monday. Coats will be cleaned by First Choice Cleaners, the Distribution of the items will be November 25th from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Bassett Healthcare at 125 Main Street, Oneonta & November 27 to December 1st from 10 AM to 4:00 PM at the Cooperstown Food Pantry, 25 Church Street, Cooperstown. More information is available at 547-3914

Senator Fred Akshar announced the expansion of the “Ag in the Classroom” program from 5 to 10 schools across the 52nd Senate District. In January, Akshar announced a pilot program through 5school districts including Harpursville, & Windsor locally, this week, Akshar announced that Bainbridge-Guilford, Chenango Valley, Deposit, Greene also joined the program. The Ag in the Classroom classes and curriculum are administered by Cornell Cooperative Extension.

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

The Unadilla Town board is holding their next regular meeting this evening. The meeting will begin at 6:30 PM at the Town Hall at 1648 State Highway 7.

Bassett Healthcare Network will host free smoking cessation seminars in recognition of the 2017 Great American Smokeout this week. Seminars will be located at November 15th at 12:00 noon at O'Connor Hospital, Delhi; at 6:00 PM at Tri-Town Regional Hospital; Sidney; & November 16th at 4:30 PM at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown; & November 17th at 6:00 PM at FoxCare Center. The clinics are Free to the public; registration is available at Bassett.org/smokeout.

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

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

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

(June White 9-27-17)

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

(Lori McGraw 10-27-17)

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

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

The Sidney Town Board & Supervisor Gene Pigford announced that they would hold a ribbon cutting & public tours of the town’s new Municipal Building at 44 Grand Street, this Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. The building formerly housed the offices of the Mirabito Fuel Group & Mang Insurance.

Oneonta City Police arrested 28-year-old Andrew Tenace of Oneonta for allegedly selling heroin last month. Tenace turned himself in to police Tuesday Afternoon, he was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, & criminal sale of a controlled substance. Tenace was observed by undercover officers making a sale downtown on September 8th, he was arraigned in Oneonta Town Court & was sent to Otsego County jail on $10,000 cash bail.

The Guilford Town Board will hold their next meeting this evening. The board will meet at 7:00 PM at the town Hall; they are scheduled to review the 2018 tentative budget proposal.

State Police arrested 20 year old Tyler Gano of Davenport for Menacing a Police Officer. The arrest was made following the execution of an arrest warrant on an unrelated charge at a residence on County Highway 10 in the Town of Davenport. Gano is accused of displaying a knife towards troopers; he was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $10,000.00 bail.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that Snips & Snails Consignments shop has been chosen as this year's "Business of the Year", owner Lori McGraw comments:

(Lori McGraw 9-28-17)

June White was chosen as the "Citizen of the Year"; the Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Awards ceremony will be held on October 28th at the Sundown Golf & Country Club in Guilford.

Delaware County Public Health announced that a cat from the town of Franklin tested positive for rabies. The stray cat attacked one person and a dog on September 20th, the individual delayed calling Public Health until September 24th, 2017; the cat was then sent for testing to Wadsworth lab on September 25. The person is receiving rabies Prophylaxis treatment. The dog was up to date on its rabies vaccinations and will receive a booster. The next free rabies clinic will be on October 18, 2017, from 6PM-8PM, at the Delhi Fire Hall, more information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

A Pre-Trial Hearing was held in Chenango County Court today, regarding the murder & arson trial of Ernest Franklin of Guilford, who along with his wife Heather are accused of killing their son Jeffrey & setting the family residence on fire to cover it up. A Pre-Trial Hearing for Heather Franklin has not been scheduled, Chenango County District Attorney Joseph McBride has stated that the 2 will be tried separately, The Trial is expected to begin next year.

State Police arrested 24-year-old Adam Gager of Windsor on 7 counts of Falsifying Business Records. Police were advised of a theft of over $800 from the Mirabito gas station on Old Route 17 in the town of Windsor, Gager was an employee, He is accused of deleting items from the store sales records and using the money to purchase lottery tickets. Gager was arraigned in the town of Windsor court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail in lieu of $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 property bond.

Delaware County Public Health announced their last Free 2017 Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets, which will be held on October 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall. Delaware County Public Health recently announced the 4th rabid animal of the year, which was a rabid bat with 1 human exposure. More information about rabies is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com

On Sunday, the Democratic Committee of Delaware County is hosting their 2nd Community Barbecue. The event will be held at the Hamden Town Hall Pavilion from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Town Hall is located at 37029 State Highway 10, Hamden, NY 13782. 8 candidates running for the 19th Congressional District in the 2018 elections have been invited to participate. More information is available at dcnydems.org.

The Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival will be held Saturday & Sunday in Downtown Norwich, Spokesperson Celeste Friend explains:

(Celeste Friend 9-8-17)

The event runs from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday & from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Sunday, more information is available at 336-FEST or colorscape.org.

State Police arrested 37-year-old Barbara Vazquez of The Bronx for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and several other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after a trooper observed Vazquez using a cell phone while driving on Interstate 81 in the town of Kirkwood, When he attempted to conduct a traffic stop, she refused to stop & continued for another 5 miles before stopping for Police. Vazquez is accused of driving without a license, possessing a cocaine & marihuana. Vazquez was arraigned in the town of Kirkwood court and was released without bail required. Her next court date is pending.

State Police arrested 56 year old Rhonda Koban of Norwich for felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .19%, plus other traffic violations. The arrest occurred after a traffic stop when Koban failed to keep right on State Route 12 in the town of Norwich. Koban was arraigned in the town of Norwich court and was released without bail required.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting today in the Guilford Cafeteria. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The Oneonta Board of Public Service will hold their next meeting this afternoon. the board will meet at 4:00 PM in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall.

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

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

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

The Town of Hartwick offers collection containers for household batteries and mercury thermostats. There are 2 Drop-off Locations for rechargeable, button cell, and lithium batteries, one is at the Hartwick Town Hall at 103 Town Drive. The second is at Short Cuts located at 10 Commons Drive in the Hartwick Commons during open hours. Household batteries and mercury thermostats can be dropped off during town clerk’s hours, Monday-Wednesday, 10am-2pm and Thursday, 4pm -6pm.

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

The Oneonta City Clerk's office announced 3 meeting for today at City Hall. The Operations, Planning & Evaluation Committee will meet at 4:00 PM, the Finance Committee meets at 5:00 PM and the Zoning & Housing Board of Appeals meets at 7:00 PM. All meetings will be held in the Common Council Chambers & are open to the public.

State Police responded to a Delaware County 911 report of a two vehicle crash with serious injuries on River Road in the Town of Sidney. An investigation determined that 39 year old Jason Cunningham of Unadilla was driving his 2005 vehicle on River Road when he entered a sharp curve and drifted into the opposing lane, striking a pickup truck driven by 35 year old Matthias Wesner of Unadilla. Cunningham was transported to Fox hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. An autopsy will be conducted at Lourdes hospital and the results are pending. Wesner received minor injuries in the crash. No tickets have been issued at this time. This investigation is ongoing.

State Police responded to an Otsego County 911 report of motorcycle striking a pickup truck on County Route 11 in the Town of Hartwick. 28 year Kyle Bronson of Cooperstown lost control and crossed into the westbound lane and struck a pickup truck. Bronson was pronounced deceased at the scene due to crash related injuries. The operator of the pickup truck, 66 year old Thomas Stewart of Laurens was not injured. State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit assisted at the scene with the investigation. The investigation is continuing.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 2 Town of Coventry residents for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Using of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marihuana. Charged were 29-year-old Brenda Manwarren & 40 year old Jessica Sepulveda, they were arraigned & were remanded to the Chenango County jail on $25,000.00 cash bail each. The 2 were arrested following an investigation into the sale and possession of Heroin in Chenango County. Heroin, a digital scale, and heroin packaging material were seized. The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Sidney Police Department and the Chenango County District Attorney’s Office.

Delaware County Public Health will hold another Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets tonight in Delhi. The Clinic will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall. Delaware County Public Health announced this week that 2 dogs encountered a rabid Raccoon, and they suggest that pet owners get their pets up to date on rabies vaccinations. More information is available at 832-5200 or Delaware county public health.org.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie made stops in the North Country today, and Rochester yesterday, as he continues a Summer Tour to all sections of the state. Heastie plans visits in the coming weeks in Western New York, The Southern Tier, The Capital Region & Long Island, to understand the challenges & Opportunities of all sections of the state.

Chenango County Sheriff's department arrested 34-year-old Michael Benham of Guilford on an active arrest warrant for 1 count of 3rd Degree Assault & 2 counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Benham was arrested after a report of a domestic dispute, & deputies discovered that Benham had an active arrest warrant from a separate incident that occurred in April.

Chenango County Sheriffs department arrested 32-year-old Samuel Gould of Norwich for Criminal Contempt, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Criminal Mischief and Harassment, after an investigation into a domestic dispute that occurred in the Town of Sherburne. Gould was arrested for allegedly subjecting the victim to unwanted physical contact and choked the victim during the course of a dispute; Gould also had an active order of protection against him. Gould was arraigned in the Town of Sherburne Court and was released on his own recognizance.

The Oneonta Airport Commission will hold their next regular meeting this afternoon. The meeting will begin at 4:00 PM in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall. Tonight's Planning Commission meeting has been cancelled.

State Police arrested 38-year-old Joseph Wilms of Unadilla, for DWI, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Criminal Mischief & other traffic violations, after troopers responded to a report of an erratic driver on the Unadilla Community Field. Wilms is accused of driving on the field, causing damage to the grass, and then driving away, he was located in his driveway on Sperry Street; the arrest was a felony because Wilms has 2 prior DWI convictions. Wilms was arraigned in the Town of Unadilla Court and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 property bond, pending court action Friday.

Governor Cuomo signed landmark legislation today to empower New York local governments to assemble and find efficiencies for savings to taxpayers.

(Cuomo 5-4-17)

The state Budget stayed within the 2% property tax cap, & the Governor challenges County Governments to develop shared services plans.

State Police arrested 22-year-old Akil Wright of Brooklyn for Criminal Contempt, after troopers responded to a domestic dispute in Laurens. Wright’s conduct violated a valid order of protection. Wright was arraigned in the Town of Laurens Court and was released without bail being required. His next court date is on May 18, 2017.

State Police arrested 44-year-old Corey Christman of Oneonta for Disseminating Indecent Material to a Minor and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Christman was arraigned in the Town of Oneonta Court and remanded to Otsego County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond, pending future court action.

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta will honor The Late Dick Davies at this year’s regatta. Regatta Chairman John Harmon explains:

(John Harmon 5-4-17)

Davies won the only 70-mile race he participated in, and was instrumental in the growth of the regatta, & the development of the regatta Hall of Fame, located at General Clinton Park.

The Town Of Oneonta will hold the 2nd of 2 public meetings today to inform residents about the "Community Choice Aggregation" energy delivery program, which is a State program that authorizes communities to purchase of electricity at lower rates. Today’s meeting is from 5:00to 7:00 PM at the Foxcare Center on Route 7. Residents are encouraged to bring their electric bill to compare pricing.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting today in the Guilford Elementary School Cafeteria at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

33-year-old Heather Franklin of Guilford has posted bail & has been released from the custody of the Chenango County Correctional facility. Franklin was released on Saturday, her husband Ernest remains in the County jail, both are accused of murder, arson and tampering with physical evidence, following a fire at their town of Guilford residence, where their adopted son Jeffrey was allegedly murdered & a fire was set to cover up the murder on March 1st.

The Broome County Sheriff's arrested 2 people wanted on warrant by the town of Afton, while investigating a suspicious vehicle parked in a parking lot in Chenango Bridge Friday. 32-year-old Zachariah Burns is accused of possessing cocaine, and giving officers the name and date of birth of another person. Burns' was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Impersonation, he was also wanted on a Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear in Town of Afton Court. Another passenger was 19-year-old Salena Palmatier also is also accused of giving officers the wrong identity, she was charged with Criminal Impersonation, & was also wanted on a Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear in Town of Afton Court.

Former Broome County Executive Debbie Preston appeared in Binghamton City Court this morning, she pleaded guilty to 1 count of Official Misconduct, she was originally charged with 3 counts. Preston will pay a $1,000 fine. Preston was charged for using a Town of Conklin Credit card for her own purposes when she was a town supervisor between 2005 & 2012.

State Police are investigating a Fatal Motor vehicle Collision on I-88 in the Town of Maryland, early Saturday morning. A vehicle exited the roadway, entered the center median, rolled over several times, ejecting 19 year old Douglas Alvarez of Mamaroneck, and coming to rest in the westbound lane of travel, it was then struck by another vehicle. Alvarez was transported to Albany Medical Center and later succumbed to his injures. 5 other occupants were transported to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown with non-life threatening injuries. All 6 occupants are SUNY Cobleskill College students. The operator of the second, uninvolved vehicle was not injured. Alcohol was not a contributing factor to the accident. The investigation is ongoing.

The Oneonta Town Board will hold a special meeting this afternoon, to set up a public hearing on the Community Choice Aggregation. The meeting will begin at 4:00 PM at the town hall in West Oneonta.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education today in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

State Police arrested 27 year old Jayson Vanvalkenburg of Mount Upton for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Menacing and 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Troopers responded to a dispute in the Town of Guilford, Vanvalkenburg allegedly choked the victim in front of 2 children, he was arraigned in the Town of Guilford Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $2000 cash bail, pending court action on April 25th.

State Police arrested 36 year old Justin Shaul of Cooperstown, for DWI with a B.A.C. result of .16% along with other traffic violations. Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle off the roadway on East Street in the Town of Oneonta, Shaul was still with the vehicle. Shaul was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Oneonta Court on May 16th.

State Senator Fred Akshar will host 3 "Face Time With Fred" Town Hall meetings this weekend, in Guilford, Fenton, and Owego.

(Fred Akshar 4-21-17)

The first 2 meetings will be held Saturday, from 10:00am to 11:30am at the Guilford Town Hall, & from 1:00pm to 2:30pm at the Fenton Town Hall & on Sunday from 3:00pm to 4:30pm at the Owego Kitchen Restaurant.

The "Battling the C's" Tri Town Relay for Life Team will hold a Quarters Auction Fundraiser at the Sidney American Legion today. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. for viewing items and event starts at 6:30.

The Guilford Town Board will hold a special meeting Saturday at 12:00 Noon at the Town Hall on Marble road. The board will review website proposals at that meeting, which is open to the public.

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

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

A free rabies vaccination clinic will be held today at the Guilford at the Town Garage. The clinic will run form 5:30 to 6:30 PM at 223 Marble Road.

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

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

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

State Police arrested 29 year old Robert Shultz of Lisle, for felony Sexual Abuse. The arrest occurred after troopers investigated a crime in the Town of Triangle, where Shultz is accused of having sexual contact with the victim by forcible compulsion. Shultz was arraigned in the Town of Triangle Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 1-car roll-over accident Monday evening on County Highway 14 in the Town of Meredith. 18 year old Dylan Cumpston of Delhi escaped the vehicle, he was transported to O’Connor Hospital in Delhi where he was treated & released. Deputies issued Cumpston was charged with failure to keep right and unlawful possession of marihuana, he will appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Commerce Chenango will present Tom Sutton with the Commitment to Community award at the Annual Membership Appreciation Luncheon today at Magro’s Banquet Hall in Sherburne at 11:30 AM. Sutton has worked his way up to Central and Southern New York Territory Manager for NBT & is involved with numeorus committees, projects and events throughout the County.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on Thursday, April 6, 2017 in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The village of Sidney will be putting bids out in the next couple of weeks for the Main Street Project, with an eye on getting the projects under by the end of may or early June, which led to SFCU Officials deciding to cancel this year’s home town day parade. Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak explains:

(Andy Matviak 4-4-17)

SFCU officials announced that they fully plan on running the next Hometown Day Parade in June of 2018.

It's a little more than a month away for this year's Tri Town Relay For Life for the American Cancer society. Spokesperson Heather Brewster comments:

(Heather Brewster 4-4-17)

The event will be held from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM at the General Clinton Park in Bainbridge, to raise money for cancer society research, education & advocacy for cancer patients in the region.

Opioid Overdose training will be held the next 2 nights at the Bainbridge Guilford high school. The training session will begin at 6:00 PM tonight & Wednesday night, all participants will be taught how to administer Naloxone & will receive a free rescue kit. More information is available at 967-6321.

Oneonta City Mayor Gary Herzig will deliver the annual State of the City address tonight at 7:00 PM at Oneonta City Hall. The Address will be held just prior to the scheduled Common Council meeting, Mayor Herzig will discuss infrastructure improvement, housing, economic development & downtown revitalization.

State Police arrested 34 year old Nathan Reigles of Gilbertsville for felony 2nd degree Assault. The arrest occurred after troopers investigated an assault on Saturday on Ives Settlement Road in the Town of Guilford, where Reigles allegedly struck another man with a pipe several times to the face and head. The victim was treated at Tri-Town Regional hospital and was released. Reigles was arrested & arraigned in the Town of Guilford Court and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 property bond, he faces court action on Thursday.

The Oneonta Parks & Recreation committee will hold their next meeting this evening. the meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at City Hall in the Common Council Chambers.

The Annual SFCU Hometown Day Parade has been cancelled this year, due to the Main Street Construction scheduled to begin this summer in downtown Sidney. SFCU officials stated that they were not able to replicate an alternate route in order to safely accommodate the numerous parade units that usually participate. the 29th Annual SFCU Hometown Day Parade will be held in June 2018.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested a Town of Smyrna resident for 3rd degree assault, criminal mischief, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation. Deputies arrested 29 year old Brian Nemeth of Smyrna after an investigation of a domestic disturbance, it was found that Nemeth caused serious physical injury to the female victim and prevented her from calling 911. Nemeth was arraigned in the Town of Smyrna Court and was released on his own recognizance. Nemeth is to appear in the Town of Smyrna Court at a later date

The Tri Town Relay For Life Captain's Meeting will be held this afternoon, at SFCU in Sidney at 5:30 PM. The annual Relay For Life will be held at General Clinton Park in Bainbridge on Saturday May 6th from 11am to 11pm. More information is available at relayforlife.org/tritownny or at 267-0014.

State Police arrested 26-year-old Zachary Fry of Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .26%, Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Motor Vehicle, and several other traffic violations. State police observed a vehicle speeding at 98 mph, in a 55 mph zone, while on Interstate 81 southbound in the Town of Chenango, the trooper attempted to catch up, the vehicle accelerated to about 115 miles an hour. Fry made a sudden stop partially just before the Interstate 81 & State Route 17 split & surrendered to the troopers without further incident. Fry was discovered with a loaded shotgun on the front passenger seat of his vehicle, he was arraigned in the Town of Dickinson Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with bail set.

Oneonta City mayor Gary Herzig announced today that the annual State of the City address would be held on April 4th at 7:00 PM at Oneonta City Hall. The Address will be held just prior to the scheduled Common Council meeting at City Hall. Mayor Herzig will discuss infrastructure improvement, housing, economic development & downtown revitalization.

State Police arrested 68-year-old David Hawkins of Bainbridge for Driving While Intoxicated with a B.A.C. result of .17% and other traffic violations. This arrest occurred after troopers stopped to check on an occupied vehicle that was stopped partly in the roadway on Dingman Hill Road in the Town of Bainbridge. Hawkins is also accused of driving a vehicle that had a suspended registration and no valid insurance. Hawkins was issued tickets returnable to the Town of Bainbridge Court on April 3rd.

The Oneonta City Clerk’s office announced that following tonight’s 6:00 PM finance-Human Resources Committee meeting, there will be a workshop on:” Annexation”, presented by the New York Conference of Mayors attorney Wade Beltramo The focus of the meeting for the City of Oneonta officials will be the reservoir & the airport properties. Thee meeting will be held in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall & is open to the public.

State Police arrested 31-year-old Tina Bremner of Afton for the felony of Aggravated Unlicensed Operation & Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Troopers responded to a report of a one-vehicle accident on State Route 41 in the Town of Afton. Responding troopers found the unoccupied vehicle, the driver was located walking on a nearby road, troopers determined that Bremner did not have permission to be driving the vehicle & a check of Bremner's driver’s license showed that she had 26 suspensions on 11 different dates. Bremner was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Jail with bail set. Her next court date is pending.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies have unveiled their new mascot recently, and they are searching for help from their fans to name him. Introduced to the Southern Tier at Parade Day in early March, Fans can cast a vote for their favorite name at bingrp.com until April 3. After receiving over 1,000 submissions, the Rumble Ponies have narrowed down the list of possible names to 5, which are Bing, Buster, Ross, Rowdy, & Rumbleton. The final selection will be unveiled at the Meet the Ponies Dinner at the Holiday Inn Downtown Binghamton on April 4th.

Chenango County District Attorney Joseph McBride and Chenango County Sheriff Ernest Cutting reported that Ernest Franklin and Heather Franklin were indicted on Friday, by a Chenango County Grand Jury on charges of: 2nd degree Murder, 3rd degree Arson and Tampering with Physical Evidence, in connection with a fire at their residence on State Route 8 in the town of Guilford on March 1st. It was determined at autopsy that their adopted son, Jeffrey, was deceased prior to the fire. Investigators believe the fire was set to cover up the murder. Both defendants will be arraigned on the indictment in Chenango County Court at a later date.

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced that the next ReUnite Bainbridge Committee Meeting would be held Tonight, at Bob's Diner at 7:00 PM. Topics of discussion will be Summerfest, a Clambake in August & the Tri Town Relay for Life at General Clinton Park on May 5th.

The Next Tri Town Relay for life event is coming up in May, and an important meeting for team captains is coming up, according to new regional spokesperson Heather Brewster:

(Heather Brewster 3-23-17)

The Tri Town Relay for Life will once again be held in General Clinton Park in Bainbridge; their goal is to raise $70,000 for The American Cancer Society's research, educational programs & assisting cancer patients.

State Police arrested 17-year-old Kirk Wayman of Windsor for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property. Troopers were advised of a theft of a rifle and a shotgun & other items from a home in Windsor in January, Police accuse Wayman of possessing the stolen firearms. Wayman was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set.

The State Department DOT will hold a public open house meeting today to discuss plans to replace a bridge on State Route 7 in the village of Afton. The open house will be held at the Afton Town Hall, from 5:30 to 7:000 PM today regarding the bridge was built in 1922 and carries State Route 7 over Kelsey Brook. The bridge is safe for continued travel and is regularly inspected. The purpose of the meeting is to share and exchange information with the public regarding the project and its potential impacts, including proposed work zone traffic control options to manage traffic during construction. More information is available at 772-7336.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on today, in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

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

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

(Lorraine Keckeisen 3-22-17)

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

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

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

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

Many members of the Congress & Senate have cancelled “Town Hall Meetings” in their home district while they are off this week. Freshman Congress members John Faso of the 19th District, and Claudia Tenney of the 22nd district have not scheduled town hall meetings this week, Tenney’s Washington office announced that they have received threats, they announced that Tenney was looking to set up a telephone conference call town hall meeting in the coming months.

Fire departments in & around Chenango county were kept busy Wednesday afternoon. Firefighters responded to a house fire at 266 Kilroy Road in Oxford, a stove fire at 11 South Main Street in Bainbridge, and another house fire at 389 County Road 27 in Coventry, all toned out within a 30 minute time frame. Chenango County EMS stated that firefighters from Coventry, Afton, Greene, Sidney, Bainbridge, Masonville, Oxford, Guilford, Norwich, Brisben, Preston and the Chenango County Bureau of Fire responded to all calls, no injuries were reported.

State Police arrested 35 year old Tyson Haskins of Deposit, for Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. The arrest occurred after a Trooper checked on an occupied vehicle that was stopped on Michigan Hollow Road in the Town of Deposit. Haskins was found to unlawfully possess needles, drug paraphernalia, an electronic scale, and about 1.75 grams of methamphetamine. Haskins was arraigned in the Town of Deposit Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail in lieu of $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 property Bond.

The 9th Hall of Fame Classic will be held at Doubleday Field in Cooperstown on Saturday, May 27th, as Hall of Famers and recently retired players suit up for the annual seven-inning legends game. First pitch for the Hall of Fame Classic is scheduled for 1:05 p.m., with the Home Run Contest beginning at noon. Hall of Famers Phil Niekro and Ozzie Smith will reprise their role as team managers, with the full roster of Hall of Famers and Classic players, Following the Classic, the Hall of Fame will host its Night at the Museum program, where former players will greet fans throughout the Museum on Saturday evening. Tickets for the Classic and Night at the Museum will be available starting Monday, March 6 at baseballhall.org or at 1-877-726-9028.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's office released audits of 2 area towns this week. The audit for the Town of Colchester shows that the Board does not have a written fund balance policy that addresses reasonable levels to be maintained, also the Board underestimated revenues by 7 percent and overestimated expenditures by 18 percent, on average, in the general fund. The Town of Greene's audit shows that the Board did not develop realistic budgets for its four major operating funds, Town officials have not developed a policy for acceptable levels of fund balance to maintain & Town officials have not developed long-term financial and capital plans.

State Police arrested 27 year old Tina Keirnan of Unadilla for 2 counts of Criminal Mischief & 2nd degree Harassment & 26 year old Ashley Mellio of Mastic, New York for 3rd degree assault. Troopers repsonded to the report of a fight, where Keirnan had struck Mellio in the face and would not let her call the police for help, both women were arrested. Keirnan & Mellio were issued tickets to the Town of Unadilla Court later this month.

State Police arrested 44 year old Peter Provenzano of Westford for 3rd degree Assault & Endangering the Welfare of a Child, after troopers responded to a dispute in the Town of Westford. Troopers determined that during an argument Provenzano punched a child in the face causing an injury. The victim was treated at a local hospital & was released. Provenzano was arraigned and was released, he faces court action on February 22nd.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a report of a snowmobile accident in the Town of Stamford & the discharge of gunshots by a property owner during an argument with snowmobiler. Deputies accuse 37 years old Willem Joosse of Hobart intentionally drove a snowmobile into a horse enclosure, until the property owners confronted him. Joose allegedly threatened to run over the owners, 57-year-old Joseph Laskowski retrieved a shotgun, and fired shots into the air. Deputies arrested Joosse for snowmobiling while intoxicated, criminal mischief, menacing, trespassing and operating an unregistered & uninsured snowmobile. Deputies also charged Laskowski with Menacing, both subjects were issued appearance tickets and were released, they will return to Town of Stamford Court at a later date.

The Bainbridge-Guilford Central School will hold a Board of Education Meeting on today in the District Conference Room at 6:30 PM. The business portion of the meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

About 100 area residents attended last nights Unatego School district Town Hall meeting with Superintendent Dave Richards, who told WCDO News of the 2 main concerns:

(Dave Richards 1-18-17)

Richards said that the Facilities committee has suggested closing the Otego Elementary School first, and then the Unadilla Elementary School in 4 to 5 years after that, the Unatego Board of Education is expected to vote on the Otego closure next month. Richards said that the district has lost 28% of their student population in the last 10 years, and the 2 buildings are over 90 years old and face millions of dollars in repairs & renovations.

Another public meeting of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization initiative will be held on Tuesday January 24th at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Atrium. Updated information will be provided by Stantec Urban Planners, Otsego Now & the local planning committee, regarding plans to transform the downtown business district. Oneonta received 10 million dollars from the state last year for the projects. The public is encouraged to attend & participate in the meeting on the 24th.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies responded to a 2-car motor vehicle accident on State Highway 206 in the Town of Walton Monday. 48-year-old Tenzin Pelmo of Ithaca was rear-ended by a vehicle being driven by 37 year old Karyl Rose of Bainbridge. Both drivers were transported to Delaware Valley Hospital for treatment of their injuries. Rose was charged with Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, unsafe tires and following too closely. Rose was arraigned & was released on her own recognize pending later court action in Town of Walton Court.

Bainbridge-Guilford-Afton-Harpursville Head Wrestling Coach Brandon MacNaught has been named the 2015-2016 New York State Wrestling Coach of the Year. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association recognized MacNaught's work during the 15-16 season, he had the task of working with 3 different school districts for his combined team, yet the Bears are consistently one of the most successful teams in the area. They sent several wrestlers to the state tournament in Albany last year and won several tournaments as a team as well.

The Unatego Central School District will host a Town Hall Meeting tonight at the Junior Senior High School Auditorium in wells Bridge, Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards comments:

(Dave Richards 1-17-17)

Tonight's meeting will begin at 7:00 PM; Richards said that they expect questions regarding the district's financial condition, the Facilities Study & the possible closure of the Otego Elementary School.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office & Port Dickinson Police stopped a vehicle on the West Service Road near Chenango Street Sunday Morning after the vehicle was observed driving erratically & striking a concrete wall. Casey Farrell of Greene was arrested for Driving while Intoxicated, resisting arrest, & refusing to submit to a Chemical Test. Farrell was arraigned in Town of Fenton court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail on $2500 cash bail.

State Police arrested 27-year-old Justin Martin of Guilford, for DWI with a B.A.C. result of .16% along with other traffic violations, after Martin allegedly failed to stop at a red light in the Village of Bainbridge. Troopers discovered that Martin was wanted by the Oneonta City Police Department on a warrant. Martin was issued tickets for the Town of Bainbridge Court on January 23; he was then turned over to the Oneonta Police Department.

State Police arrested Heidi Cronin of Whitney Point, for Aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .18%, as well as Resisting Arrest and several other traffic tickets. The arrest occurred after troopers responded to a Broome County 911 report of an intoxicated woman at the Speedway Gas Station in the Town of Triangle. Cronin allegedly flailed her arms and kicked officers as they handcuffed her; she Cronin was arraigned in the Town of Triangle Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting this evening. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM in City Hall & is open to the public.

The State DOT will hold a public meeting on today, to discuss the conclusions of the Interstate 81 pedestrian bridge study, and the US Route 11 Bridge over I-81 replacement project, the public information meeting will be held in at the Dickinson Town Hall, at 6:00 PM.