WCDO Radio News

Norwich City Officials are working with State & Federal Lawmakers & other organizations to try to find a store that can go in where the Grand Union store was located at 54 East Main Street in Norwich, Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey said that there are some obstacles to getting a new store in quickly:

(Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey 4-10-26)

The link to the online auction will begin April 20, with a bid starting at $500,000 can be found at loopnet.com, Property tours are available by calling 914-220-9758.

P-A-K Construction is hosting "GUILFORD'S ROAD CLEAN UP DAY" on Saturday from 10 TO 3; PAK Owner Paul Knowles comments:

(Paul Knowles 4-10-26)

Knowles said that the event is open to residents in ROCKDALE, MT. UPTON, ROCKWELL MILLS AND GUILFORD and will be held at P-A-K CONSTRUCTION ON Chenango County road 36.

THE OUT OF THE WOODWORK PLAYERS PRESENT 'THE IMAGINARY INVALID' tonight, Saturday Night at 7:30 PM & Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM, cast members Emily & Scott Germond explain:

(Emily & Scott Germond 4-10-26)

The tickets are available at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater before the show or at outofthewoodworkplayers.org.

Tonight's Binghamton Rumble Ponies Home Opener at Mirabito Stadium has been postponed and will be made up as part of a Double header starting Wednesday afternoon 4:15 P m. The Rumble Ponies will play the Yankees Double A Team the Somerset Patriots to start their home opener series this year, ceremonies to celebrate the Rumble Ponies League championship last year will be held Wednesday starting at 3:45 PM.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-7-26

The City of Norwich is pursuing all avenues to try to find a new supermarket chain to move into a key downtown location that unexpected lost a large supermarket, Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey told WCDO news that the incomes of residents in that area of the City makes acquiring a new store difficult:

(Norwich Mayor Robert Jeffrey 4-6-26)

Mayor Jeffrey said that they are working with area state & Federal lawmakers to try to bring a new store in, and they hope to get positive action soon.

The SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus will hold "Instant Decision Day" on April 15th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Follett Hall. People can meet with Representatives from academic departments & financial aid, more information is available at 607-334-5144.

The City of Oneonta is accepting applications for a firefighter civil service exam to be held on January 10, 2026. The application deadline is December 10, Applications can be submitted in person or by mail to the Oneonta Civil Service Commission at City Hall at 258 Main Street and the starting salary for 2026 hires is $52,000. More information is available at oneonta.ny.us.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-4-25

Today is Election Day, with several important local races in the Tri County Region:

The Town of Sidney has several key races this year, Incumbents Town Supervisor Eric Wilson faces a challenge from Giffen Ott, 5 candidates are seeking 2 seats on the Sidney Town Board, Incumbents Bill Heath & Frank Selleck are seeking re-election, they face challengers Andrew Hinkley, Richard DeCola & Jesse Wakeman. The Sidney Town Justice position race feature incumbents Greg McCann against challenger Jennifer Ruling

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There are Town Supervisor races locally, in Guilford it is a rematch between incumbent Sue McIntyre against Gilda Ward, in Unadilla George Denys faces a late challenge from Write In Candidate Ed Gross, in the town of Colchester, the candidates are Robert Hafele & Arthur Merrill, in the town of Oneonta, the candidates are William Rivera Jr. & Brett Holleran

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The Cities of Norwich and Oneonta will have new Mayors, in Norwich the candidates are Robert Jeffrey & Jason Miller, in Oneonta the candidates are Luisa Montanti & Dan Butterman

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In the race for Delaware County Treasurer, Ronda Williams faces Carli Pinner.

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Polls are open from 6am to 9pm today, more information is available at your County Board of Elections Website.

State Police responded to South Hall of the SUNY Morrisville Campus Monday afternoon at 3:45 pm, they found a 20-year-old male, who was not a student, with a gunshot wound to the neck. The victim was transported to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, No other injuries were reported and a suspect has not been located, the investigation is continuing. Normal class schedules resumed this morning.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-20-25

Jeremiah Raub was found guilty by a Broome County Jury today for 1 count of 2nd-degree murder and 2 counts of 1st-degree arson, in connection with a 2011 Binghamton fire that killed 17 year old Jeffrey Aissa. 6 people escaped the blaze, Aissa died inside the house. The 1st trial for Raub ended when the jury could not reach a verdict, he will be sentenced at a later date in Broome County Court.

Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets on today from 5:00PM-7:00PM, at Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Extension, more information is available at (607) 832-5200.

The Jericho Arts Council presents a St. Patrick's day themed show with the Ryan Clan on Saturday night at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater at 7:00 PM. In the Gallery will be a showcase of student's Art work, Tickets can be reserved by calling (607) 288-3882.

A.M. NEWS Friday 3-14-25

55 year old Jeffrey Kaufman of Downsville was sentenced to 364 days in jail for each count of 3rd degree Assault. Kaufman admitted to attempting to assault Police Officers, on July 28, 2024. Officer Bryanna Houck of the Colchester Police Department was engaged in an unrelated traffic stop, Kaufman exited his residence & began to yell obscenities at Officer Houck, who called for & received assistance. the officers placed Kaufman under arrest for Obstruction of Governmental Administration and Disorderly Conduct, Kaufman attempted to damage the cruiser & spit on & kick at an officer & was still combative at the police station.

THE 62ND GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA WAS HELD THIS PAST MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND WITH OVER 800 CANOE RACERS ON THE SUSQUEHANNA RIVER. THERE WERE PADDLERS FROM THE U.S., CANADA, GERMANY AND THE U.K.. THE 2-PERSON PRO RACE FEATURED 50 TEAMS 1ST PLACE WENT TO WES DEAN FROM MICHIGAN AND LOGAN MYNAR FROM TEXAS. WCDO'S CRAIG STEVENS SPOKE TO THE WINNERS AFTER THE RACE:

"REGATTA 24 NEWS-DEAN-MYNAR" (:30)

OR

"REGATTA 24 NEWS-WES DEAN" (:22)

THE PAIR FINISHED THE 70 MILE COURSE IN 8 HOURS AND 7 SECONDS TO TAKE HOME THE $3,000 DOLLAR PRIZE. THE REGATTA ALSO DREW THOUSANDS FROM AROUND THE SOUTHERN TIER FOR THE RIDES, HOT AIR BALLOONS, LIVE MUSIC, FIREWORKS, AND KIDS ENTERATINMENT OVER THE 3 DAY EVENT.

OVER 800 CANOE RACERS DESCENDED ON BAINBRIDGE THIS PAST MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND FOR THE 62ND GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA. THE REGATTA

FEATURES NEARLY 50 DIFFERENT RACES FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY INCLUDING GENERATION GAP, SCOUT RACES, SPRINTS, RELAY RACES, AND THE WORLD FAMOUS 70 MILE ENDURANCE RACES FROM COOPERSTOWN TO BAINBRIDGE. ITHACA RESIDENT, TERRY KENT WON THE ONE PERSON PRO RACE BEATING TREVOR ROBINSON FROM SASKATOON, CANADA BY JUST 2 SECONDS. KENT DESCRIBED THE EXCITING FINISH:

"REGATTA 24 NEWS-TERRY KENT (:20)

IT WAS KENT'S 7TH C1 PRO RACE VICTORY. HE WAS INDUCTED INTO THE REGATTA HALL OF FAME LAST YEAR. IN THE 4 PERSON PRO DIVISION, A COMBINED TEAM OF 3 NEW YORK PADDLERS AND 1 CALIFORNIA PADDLER TOOK FIRST PLACE. PAUL OLNEY, JOANN OLNEY, BEN SCHLIMMER AND JIM TERREL TALKED TO WCDO'S CRAIG STEVENS ABOUT THEIR RACE:

"REGATTA 24 NEWS-C4 WINNERS" (:27)

THE FOURSOME FINISHED THE 70 MILE COURSE IN 8 HOURS 20 MINUTES AND 41 SECONDS.

THE 62ND GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA WAS HELD THIS PAST WEEKEND AND FEATURED OVER 800 CANOE RACERS FROM THE U.S., CANADA, THE U.K & GERMANY. 1 BRITISH TEAM COMPETED IN THE 4 PERSON PRO RACE, 2 MEMBERS FROM THAT TEAM, PETER AND HELEN KRUSZELNICKI SPOKE WITH WCDO'S CRAIG STEVENS ABOUT CROSSING THE ATLANTIC OCEAN TO COMPETE IN THE REGATTA'S FAMOUS 70 MILER:

"REGATTA 24 NEWS-BRITS" (:33)

THIS YEAR'S TWO PERSON PRO RACE FEATURED 50 TEAMS. WES DEAN FROM MICHIGAN AND LOGAN MY-NAR FROM TEXAS TOOK FIRST PLACE WITH A TIME OF 8 HOURS AND 7 SECONDS. IT WAS DEAN'S 2ND REGATTA WIN AND MY-NAR NOW HAS THE DISTINCTION OF BEING THE FIRST TEXAN TO WIN THE CLINTON. 6 PEOPLE WERE INDUCTED INTO THE REGATTA HALL OF FAME THIS YEAR INCLUDING 4 PADDLERS BRUCE CODDINGTON OF SIDNEY, BOB SILVERNAIL OF BAINBRIDGE, LORI SHAVER ROSEBOOM MICHAELS FROM MARYLAND, & WILL WHITING FROM FULTONVILLE, & 2 CONTRIBUTORS; RON JEFFREY AND WCDO'S GREG DAVIE.

THE 62ND GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA WAS HELD OVER THE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND. THE EVENT DREW THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE FROM THE SOUTHERN TIER FOR THE CANOE RACING, RIDES, LIVE MUSIC, FIREWORKS AND MORE. THERE WERE OVER 800 CANOE RACERS COMPETING ALL 3 DAYS INCLUDING THE 70 MILE RACES FROM COOPERSTOWN TO BAINBRIDGE ON SUNDAY. THIS YEAR'S TWO PERSON PRO RACE HAD 50 TEAMS . LOCAL PADDLER ED CURLEY FROM SIDNEY TEAMED UP WITH ONE OF CANADA'S TOP FEMALE PADDLERS, SARA LESSARD FOR A TOP 20 FINISH...THEY SPOKE WITH CRAIG STEVENS AFTER THE RACE....

REGATTA24NEWS-CURLEY-LESSARD

IN THE 70 MILE AMATUER MEN'S NYMCRA STOCK RACE, WCDO'S NATE LULL AND HIS LONGTIME PARTNER, BRETT SHERWOOD TOOK THIRD PLACE OUT OF 13 ENTRIES. THEY SAID THEY WERE SURPRISED AT THEIR TOP 3 FINISH...

REGATTA24NEWS-LULL-SHERWOOD

THIS YEAR'S TWO PERSON PRO RACE WAS WON BY WES DEAN FROM MICHIGAN AND LOGAN MY-NAR FROM TEXAS. THIS YEAR'S REGATTA BROUGHT PADDLERS FROM THE U.S., CANADA, THE U.K., AND GERMANY.

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that 38 year old Jeremiah Raub of New Milford Pennsylvania was released on $150,000 bail. Raub was charged with murder and arson in connection with a fatal house fire on Milford Street in Binghamton in 2011 that killed 17 year old Jeffrey Aissa, he was arrested by Binghamton Police last Month. Raub was placed on a pre-release program and will be monitored by Broome County Probation through a GPS ankle monitor, His next court date is scheduled for May 15th, the investigation into the fire remains active.

The United Way of Mid Rural New York officially expanded into Madison County on April 1st, making the local United Way chapter a 4 county chapter. Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco told WCDO News that the move into Madison County will present different challenges than the recent expansion into Delaware & Otsego Counties did:

(Elizabeth Monaco 4-7-23)

Monaco said that the 1st fundraising effort in Delaware & Otsego Counties, brought in almost twice the amount than the previous year, but the circumstances in Madison County will not lend itself to doubling the fundraising in the 1st full year.

The Jericho Arts Council will present the music of the Corvettes tonight, at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, spokesman Phil wade comments:

(Phile Wade 4-7-23)

The Gallery features the work of Rachel Hares & Mark Picone tonight, Doors open at 6:00, the show begins at 7:00 PM, tickets can be reserved at 607-288-3882.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced he will host an 11 county town hall meeting, 1 in each county in his District. The 1st Town Hall will be held on February 14th in Chenango County at the Norwich City Fire Station at 11:00 AM, a Broome County Town Hall will be held on Thursday February 16 at 5:30 pm at the Endwell Fire Department. other meeting are being scheduled and will be announced shortly.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were advised on February 1st by Colchester Police that a missing handgun related to an Order of Protection had been surrendered. The owner of the handgun, 53-year-old, Jeffrey Kaufman of Colchester, had been served an Order of Protection. which required all firearms to be surrendered to Deputies, Kaufman did possess a firearm after the issuance of this order, and it was subsequently surrendered later. Deputies arrested Kaufman on 1 count Criminal Contempt he was processed and issued an appearance ticket to Colchester Town Court at a later date.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 68-year-old Jeffrey Hall of Treadwell, after Deputies observed a vehicle fail to obey a traffic control device in the Village of Delhi. Deputies conducted a traffic stop, Hall's Registration was suspended, his driver’s license was revoked , Hall was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, operating a Motor Vehicle While Registration is Suspended, Unlicensed Operator and Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device, Hall was released on tickets for the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

The Jericho Arts Council presents the Susquehanna String band tonight at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater. The show starts at 7:00 pm. In the art gallery the works of Michael Price will be displayed. More information is available at jerichoarts.com, Reservations for tonight's show can be made at 607-288-3882.

State Police arrested 19 year old Jeffrey Bullis of Unadilla, for Criminal Contempt, Stalking, and Criminal Trespass, after Troopers were dispatched to a report of a physical altercation at the House of Consignment on Main Street in Unadilla. State Police reported that Bullis violated an existing order of protection by entering the business, he is accused of grabbing and shoving a victim, causing the victim to strike a window and door frame, another person intervened & held Bullis down until troopers arrived. The victim went to Tri-Town Hospital for an evaluation of injuries that were sustained during the incident. Bullis was also evaluated at Tri-Town Hospital for a complaint of pain but was released and processed at Troop C, Bullis was issued appearance tickets to the Unadilla Town Court on January 23rd. The investigation is on-going, more charges are possible.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced that items from the World Champions Houston Astros is being displayed currently. Artifacts donated by the Astros include a Jersey worn by World Series MVP Jeremy Peña, wristbands & toothpicks from Manager Dusty Baker, a Glove used by outfielder Chas McCormick, spikes from Pitchers Justin Verlander & Ryan Pressly, and a ball thrown by Cristian Javier from the Game 4 combined no-hitter and signed by all 4 Astros pitchers as well as catcher Christian Vázquez.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the graduation of Corporal Jeffrey Clark and his partner "K-9 Edge" from the K-9 Academy. After more than 3 months of training, the class graduated 10 handlers and their K-9 partners as certified in patrol techniques. Corporal Clark and Deputy K-9 Edge are now certified for patrol, with specific training in obedience, tracking individuals, locating discarded or secreted items, criminal apprehension and handler protection.  Corporal Clark and K9 Edge will return to the Academy this fall and further their training and certification in explosives detection.

Blood Supplies are still low, according to the American Red Cross, another blood donation opportunity will be held Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Main Street Baptist Church Briggs Hall, 333 Main Street in Delhi. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

State Police arrested 6 people, for allegedly possessing guns and illegal magazines that are not compliant with the New York SAFE Act. Troopers initiated a traffic stop on Upper Front Street in the town of Chenango, they arrested 39 year old Jeffrey Everetts of Sayre, Pennsylvania & 32 year old Nephrem Holt of Albany for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, another traffic stop on Upper Front Street in the town of Chenango resulted in the arrest of 4 men from Pennsylvania, 56 year old Robert Applegate II, 31 year old Robert Applegate III, 28 year old Glen Applegate, & 29 year old Trevor Sweigart, All 6 were arraigned and were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 4:45 to 6:45 PM, at the Franklin Fire Hall. More information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

Authorities in Pennsylvania are looking for 42 year old Jeffrey Johnson of Hancock. The Wayne County Drug Task Force announced that Johnson is facing charges of possession of weapons of mass destruction, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Risking Catastrophe, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and a variety of game violations. Law Enforcement officials said that during their search for Johnson, they discovered white-tailed deer hanging in the backyard with no visible harvest tags, they also discovered deer & wild turkey parts, and the remains of black bear, they also discovered a pipe bomb, rifles, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia, Johnson did not have a hunting license and was not permitted to own firearms. The Scranton bomb squad was notified and detonated the bomb on location. Anyone with information about Johnson's whereabouts are asked to contact the Wayne County Communications Center at (570) 253-3109.

Catholic charities announced that there will be another Mass Food Distribution in Sidney later this month. Penny McKnight from Catholic Charities said that volunteers are needed:

(Penny McKnight 3-9-22)

The Mass Food Distribution will be at 11:00 AM at the Sidney River Street Fire Station, anyone interested in volunteering should email CALLEN4@stny.rr.ccom or call Catholic Charities at 607-604-4071.

Due to today's Storm, the Town of Guilford Board meeting, originally scheduled for tonight, has been moved to tomorrow night, at 7:00 At the Town Hall on Marble Road.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-9-22

The State Health Department reported that 67,714 COVID tests were conducted Monday, with 1,060 positives, for a positivity rate of 1.57%. Patient Hospitalization were 1,507, with 251 Patients in ICU and 138 on ventilators & 17 deaths in Hospitals & Nursing homes.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-23-20

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 19 year old Dakota Hall of Fleischmanns for 2nd degree murder following a domestic dispute in Fleischmanns Thursday night.  Deputies, State Police & EMT's responded at about 10:50 PM Thursday night to a reported stabbing at a residence on Main Street. The stabbing victim, 27-year-old Eric Hall, was taken to Margaretville Memorial Hospital and died for injuries sustained in the attack.  Dakota Hall was taken into custody without incident by Deputies for allegedly stabbing his brother; Hall was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail pending future court action.  The investigation is ongoing.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a head-on collision in the Town of Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.  Deputies reported that at about 5:30 PM, they responded with EMT's to the accident on County Highway 21 near Leland Hull Road.  Deputies determined that a vehicle driven by 50 year-old Jeffrey Lewis of Walton crossed over the center line and collided with a vehicle driven by 62 year-old Wayne Knorr of Laurens, causing the Knorr vehicle to overturn several times.  Knorr was taken to Fox Hospital in Oneonta for a head injury; Lewis was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital also for the treatment of a head injury.  Lewis’ driving privileges were revoked as a result of previous alcohol related offense, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operation of a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device, failure to keep right and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, he was released to appear in Town of Franklin court at a later date.  Alcohol was not a contributing factor in this accident.

The 3rd Annual Afton Sidewalk day will be held on Saturday
August 24th, organizers are hoping to get more artists & crafters to
exhibit their wares at this year’s event, spokesperson Amy Spooner explains:

(Amy Spooner 7-16-19)

More information can be found at
the Afton Sidewalk Day Facebook Page, or by calling Amy Spooner at 244-9366, or
Alexis Van Buren at Baristacrats at 743-2401.

Heather Franklin of Guilford was sentenced in Chenango
County Court to 7 to 11 years in state prison on Monday.  Heather & her husband Ernest Franklin
plotted the murder of their 16-year-old adopted special needs son Jeffrey
before setting their house on fire in March 2017 to cover up his murder.
Heather Franklin pleaded guilty earlier this year to manslaughter, arson and
tampering with physical evidence.

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

Ernest Franklin of Guilford was sentenced in Chenango County
Court Monday, to 21 years to life in state prison, for the murder of his
adopted and disabled teen son Jeffrey, and starting a fire at the family home
to cover it up, in February of 2017.
Franklin planned the murder with his wife, Heather Franklin, who
accepted a guilty plea to manslaughter; she has not been sentenced for her role
in the murder.

The next Delaware County Public Health Free Rabies
Vaccination Clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held today from 5:00 to
7:00 pm at Franklin Fire Hall at 351 Main St. Franklin.   More information is available at 832-5200 or
delawarecountypublichealth.com

Ernest Franklin of Mount Upton is seeking a retrial, after
being found guilty of murdering his special needs stepson Jeffrey, and setting
fire to the family residence to cover up the murder.  Franklin was due to be sentenced in Chenango
County for the murder arson & tampering with physical evidence charges when
the motion for a retrial was filed.
Ernest Franklin's wife Heather pleaded guilty to manslaughter, arson and
evidence tampering for her role in the case.

Senator Fred Akshar will be hosting his 32nd “Face Time With
Fred” town hall meeting on tomorrow from 1:30pm - 3:00pm at the Hillcrest Fire
Department in Hillcrest. Community members are invited to attend the informal
meetings to discuss important state and local issues.

The Town of New Lisbon announced that they are applying for
a Community Development Block Grant from the State Office of Community
Renewal.  The town could receive $198,000
for rehabilitating 6 homes needing a variety of repairs.  A Public Hearing will be held on April 9th at
7:00 PM at the Town Hall, more information is available at 965-8508 or
286-7244.

Antione Bourbon-Parme, also
known as Anthony Cazzari has been arrested has been charged with 3rd degree
Grand Larceny, for allegedly stealing more than $18,000 by forging checks from
the Cooperstown Food pantry, while serving as one of the Organization’s
directors.  Bourbon-Parme was arraigned
& was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $10,000 Cash Bail or $20,000
Bond pending court action on April 24th.

34 year old Heather Franklin opted to avoid a trial, &
pleaded guilty to 1st degree manslaughter, 3rd-degree arson, and tampering with
physical evidence, Tuesday in Chenango County Court.  Franklin admitted to planning the murder of
her special needs son Jeffrey in the town of Guilford family home in March of
2017 & planning the burning of the home to hide the evidence of the murder.
as
part of the plea deal, Heather Franklin will spend 7 to 11 years in prison with
10 years of probation when she is officially sentenced on June 7th.  Franklin's
husband Ernest was found guilty last month & will be sentenced in May,

Jury selection began today in Chenango County Court & the trial of Heather Franklin is expected to begin tomorrow.  Franklin is accused of planning the murder of her son Jeffrey Franklin with her Husband Ernest Franklin, and covering up the crime by setting the family house on fire in the town of Guilford in March of 2017.  Ernest Franklin was found guilty by a jury last month for his role in the crime; he faces sentencing at a later date.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular
meeting this evening.  The meeting begins
at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers on the 2nd floor of City Hall.

Governor Cuomo’s job approval
rating has improved to 50% for the first time since last May, according to
polls released this week.   A Quinnipiac
Survey released today said that 50% percent of voters approve of the job Cuomo
is doing as governor, with 41% registering disapproval.  About 2/3rds of those polled believe that
Cuomo should also continue to try to convince Amazon to revisit their plans to
open a facility in Queens & add 25,000 jobs.

Village voting took place & there were a few races to
decide, in Sidney, Andy Matviak was re-elected as Mayor over Jeffrey Stefanek
& Elected to the Village board were Ray Baker & Barry MacPherson.  In Walton, Stephen Condon won the election
for a two-year mayor seat over incumbent Ed Snow.  In Gilbertsville, the new Mayor is Mark
Muller who defeated incumbent Ken Nolan; Trustees that won are Glenn Foster
& Randolph Palada,  in Afton, the 2
village board seats were won by DeAnna Lawrence & Sally Muller.

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

The Chenango County Farm Bureau is hosting an Agricultural
Celebration Wednesday at the Silo Restaurant in Greene, from 11:00 AM until
2:00 PM, to celebrate National Agriculture Day.
Chenango County farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers comments:

(Bradd Vickers 3-19-19)

Vickers said that this year’s
theme is "Agriculture: Food for Life” & the keynote speaker will be
New York State Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture &
Markets; Dave Valesky.

Village elections are being held across the state today.  Locally, in Sidney incumbent Mayor Andy Matviak faces a challenge from Jeffrey Stefanek, plus 3 people are running for 2 seats on the board, Sheri Youngs, Raymond Baker & Barry MacPherson.  In Walton incumbent Mayor Ed Snow, faces a challenge from Steve Condon. In Gilbertsville, incumbent mayor Ken Nolan faces challenger Mark Muller. 3 people are seeking 2 trustee seats: Glenn Foster, Randolph Palada & John Wargo & in Afton 2 Trustee seats are open, 3 candidates are seeking those seats, Sally Muller; DeAnna Lawrence; Melissa Matthews. Polling places are open from 12:00 noon until 9:00 pm.  Those who have questions regarding their eligibility to vote in village elections, should contact their county Board of elections, or they should go to their polling place to see if they are eligible to vote today.

The Oneonta Common Council will be holding their next
regular meeting this evening.  The
meeting will begin at 7:00 PM in the Common Council Chambers of City Hall.

The Trial of Heather Franklin will begin on Aprils 1st in Chenango County Court, for the murder of her special needs son Jeffrey in 2017.  Heather & Ernest Franklin were accused of killing the teenager and setting fire to the family home in the town of Guilford, after they had watched "Manchester by the Sea" which contained a similar plot.  Ernest Franklin was convicted on Murder 7 Arson charges last week; he will be sentenced on May 3rd.

Jody Zakrevsky, who is the CEO of Otsego Now, will be
holding a series of "town hall" meetings throughout Otsego County in
the coming weeks. The first of these meetings will be held today at Hartwick
College in the Shineman Chapel from 5:30pm - 7:00pm. The second one will be
held on Thursday, at Oneonta Town Hall from 5:00pm - 6:30pm Topics to be
discussed range from grant opportunities available under the next consolidated
funding application process, economic and community development interests, and
energy. Questions and comments from the public are welcomed and encouraged.

Chenango County Jury convicted Ernest Franklin of Guilford
for 2nd-degree murder, 3rd-degree arson, and tampering with physical evidence
in connection with the 2017 murder of his 16-year-old adopted son Jeffrey.  The Jury believed that Franklin killed Jeffrey
& set fire to the family home to cover up the murder, his wife Heather’s
trial will be held in Chenango County court later this year.

Tickets for the 2019 Hall of Fame Classic, scheduled for
Saturday, May 25, go on sale today to the general public online and by phone.
Hall of Fame members Rollie Fingers and Alan Trammell will be joined by
additional Hall of Famers and recently retired players representing all 30
major league teams for a seven-inning legends game at Cooperstown’s historic
Doubleday Field.  Tickets will be
available via phone at 207-9519 or at baseballhall.org.

Jury Selection began Monday in Chenango County Court for the
murder trial of Ernest Franklin.
Franklin & his wife Heather are accused of killing their special
needs son Jeffrey & then setting fire to their town of Guilford Home in
March of 2017, after watching a movie "Manchester By The Sea" which
contained a similar plot.  Heather Franklin
will be tried separately.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 57 year old
Gerald Walke of Franklin Monday on a charge of Felony Driving while intoxicated
following a traffic stop for an obstructed license plate on County Highway 21
in the Town of Walton. Deputies allege the defendant operated a motor vehicle
while in an intoxicated condition and additionally while having a prior
conviction of Driving While Intoxicated. Walke was arraigned in front of Judge
Hall at Walton Village Court, and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail in
lieu of $2,000 bail.

Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre & Gallery & the Jericho Arts Council presents the Kevin Prater band Saturday at 7:00 PM. Ticket Reservations are available at 288-3882; tickets will also be available at the Box Office prior to the show.

State Police arrested 25 year old Jeffrey Gurnee of Afton for Sexual Abuse following an investigation of an alleged sex abuse several years ago where Gurnee allegedly inappropriately touched a child under the age of 14, & a child under the age of 11 on another occasion. Gurnee was arraigned in the town of Afton Court; he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond. An order of protection was issued for each victim

The Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce announced their "Shop Local Artisans" Event to be held on Small Business Saturday tomorrow. The event will be held at the Bainbridge Town Hall from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The City of Oneonta Airport Commission will hold two special meetings in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall tomorrow. The only item on the agenda for these meetings is the interview of representatives of firms who had responded to the City’s request for proposals for provision of airport-consultant services for the next 5 years. The meetings are scheduled for 10:00 am and 11:00am. The public is welcome to attend.

State Police investigated an accident Thursday night at county roads 21 & 23 in the town of Walton. A vehicle operated by an unidentified 18 year old female from Lake City Florida, was traveling north on Route 21 when she began to enter Route 23 but then she swerved to stay on Route 21 and she struck an SUV driven by 26 year old Briar Jeffrey Lee Holt of Rock Hill, South Carolina; which was southbound on Route 21, The driver of the first vehicle was ticketed for failure to keep right, she complained of ankle and chest pain & was taken to Delaware Valley Hospital. A 17 year old female passenger in the 1st vehicle had multiple facial lacerations and contusions, & was also taken to Delaware Valley Hospital, and 18 year old male passenger from Sidney Center, who was also in the 1st vehicle, suffered a broken leg and chest pain he was airlifted to Wilson Memorial hospital in Johnson City. 2 people in the Holt SUV were uninjured.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting this evening. The Meeting will begin at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber on the 2nd floor of City Hall, it is open to the public.

State Police arrested 26-year-old Christopher Neumann of Castleton in connection with a collision that injured 2 troopers & 2 tow truck operators early Sunday on Interstate 90. Troopers Brent Karow and Shane Swartz were investigating an unrelated 1-car crash on I-90 in North Greenbush at approximately 5:15 a.m. Sunday, when Neumann's vehicle struck their patrol car, which then hit both troopers and tow truck operator, Jeffrey Waite. Trooper Karow was thrown 70 feet into the median, while Trooper Swartz and Waite were thrown under the tow truck, all 3 were taken to Albany Medical Center, a 2nd Tow Truck employee was hit by flying debris & was treated at the scene. Neumann was charged with 1st degree vehicular assault, DWI and numerous other traffic violations, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail.

The Oneonta Parks & Recreation Committee will meet later today for their regular meeting. The meeting begins at 7:00 PM at Oneonta City Hall.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 19-year-old Sean Gillespie of Bovina on charges of driving while ability impaired by drugs, 2 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marijuana, and speeding 82 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith Friday. Gillespie allegedly possessed Ecstasy, marijuana, and Hydrocodone; he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 bail. 19-year-old Jeffrey Bowie of Hamden was an occupant in Gillespie’s vehicle, he was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance & unlawful possession of marijuana for allegedly possessing Ecstasy & marijuana, he was arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 bail.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their first meeting of 2018 this evening at City Hall. The meeting will get underway at 7:00 PM in the council chambers on the 2nd floor.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual "State Of The State" Breakfast today starting at 8:00 AM. The event will be held at the SUNY Oneonta Morris Hall Otsego Grill.

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 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.

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.

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.