WCDO Radio News

The Norwich Girls Softball will be run by the Norwich YMCA this year, instead of by the Little League, Spokesperson Danielle Ryan said that they will be able to charge only $10, per player interested, and they hope to get a lot more participation & teams playing:

(Danielle Ryan 2-28-26)

Ryan said that the Registration for the Norwich Youth Softball Organization will run through March 13th, the registration & more information is available at norwichymca.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-24-26

The Broome County Sheriff's office arrested 61 year old MD Omar Faruk and 39 year old Mohammad Rahman for Criminal Tax Fraud, Possession or Transport of Unstamped or Unlawfully Stamped Cigarettes following an investigation into the illegal sales of cigarettes, vapes and marijuana in the Town of Colesville. On February 12th, the Sheriff’s Office, the Special Investigations Unit Task Force & the Broome County Health Department conducted a flavored nicotine vape compliance check at the Empire Plaza gas station, a search warrant uncovered illicit flavored nicotine vapes, marijuana products, untaxed cigarettes and $18,346 in Cash. Faruk was released with an appearance ticket to the Town of Colesville Court, Rahman was turned over to U.S. Border Patrol, as he had failed to appear for immigration proceedings.

Chenango Health Network & Bassett Medical Center Research Institute, are calling on residents of Norwich and Sherburne to participate in a Community Health Survey, Kimberly Lorraine of the Chenango Health Network explains:

(Kimberly Lorraine 2-23-26)

The results will be used to develop and evaluate future diabetes prevention efforts. The deadline is February 28th, For more information, visit chenangohealth.org or call 607 337-4171.

The annual Goodyear Lake Polar Bear Jump is coming up February 17th, with their annual auction to be held this Sunday at 12:30 at the Milford Central School. Brenda Waters & her husband Jamie have been organizing this event for 26 years, Brenda told WCDO News that they raised over $141,000 with last years event for area people with a variety of medical issues, and they hope to exceed that this year, starting with the auction:

(Brenda Waters 1-29-24)

Waters said that the Polar Bear Jump will be on February 17th at 12:30, the awards banquet will be held that evening at the Oneonta Elks club, all the information is available at pbjump.com.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 year old Marcus Gergich of Kenmore following a traffic stop on January 18 in The Village of Cooperstown. Gergich was charged with DWI, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs, Open Container & Smoking Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle, he was arrested and later released on an Appearance ticket.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors announced that a joint mission of the U.S. military and the County of Delaware with an Innovative Readiness Training mission, which will be bringing medical professionals to Walton July 11th through the 19th, providing several free medical, dental & Veterinary services. Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News about the effort:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 2-22-23)

Volunteers will be needed to help with the event anyone interested can call Delaware Opportunities at (607) 746-1600.

AK Strong T-shirts are being made available locally, to assist with the medical expenses for the McEwan-Lomnicki as their daughter Anielle, also known as "AK", remains at a Syracuse Hospital with injuries sustained when she was hit by a car while walking home from school last week. Local businessman Mike Gavin explains:

(Mike Gavin 2-22-23)

Gavin said that area restaurants will be donating 10% of their sales to the family, Beez Kneez will participate on Friday, Gavin's, Machos Taco's, Tina Old Fashioned Donuts, Sidney Joe's Pizzeria, Trackside Dining & Club 55 will be participating on Saturday. Donations are also being accepted through the Trinity O'Connor Foundation, more information is available by contact Kim Ayres at 607-226-8031.

Governor Kathy Hochul appeared in Johnson City this morning, she outlined some of the executive Budget Proposal Items that are aimed at helping the Southern Tier:

(Governor Hochul 2-22-23)

Governor Hochul discussed $1.4 billion in School Aid for the Southern Tier, Over $151 million in DOT capital projects, $50 million for Binghamton University to continue establishing a hub for battery technology innovation, Over $23 million for local paving and pothole repairs, $963,000 for Broome Community College, $16 million for addiction services funding, the 227 Billion Dollar Budget proposal is being negotiated & is due on April 1st.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-22-23

The New York State Department of Health today issued the results of its latest annual chronic disease public opinion survey. According to the survey, 88% think heroin use is a serious public health problem, 90% site the use or misuse of prescription opioids, 92% said childhood obesity, 85% think tobacco use continues to be a major problem, 80% reported issues with health care access, 77% said alcohol consumption & 46% think marijuana are other serious health problems.

The State Office of Cannabis Management announced proposed regulations for the Medical Cannabis Program that implement certain provisions of the state’s new Cannabis Law. The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act included updates to the program designed to consider environmental impacts and create efficiencies, & also includes technical changes to the regulations to formally shift the program from the Department of Health to Office of Cannabis Management. The regulations were submitted to the Cannabis Control Board for its review and approval at its meeting on Thursday, i the Board approves, the regulations will advance to a 60-day public comment period.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-16-22

The Binghamton Police Department arrested 36 year old Marquetta James of Connecticut for 2nd degree arson, in connection with the fire at 159 Conklin Avenue yesterday. Binghamton Police Detectives found James at a local hotel, Authorities stated that James was an acquaintance to 1 of the residents in the building. 20 adults and 9 children were displaced by the fire.

State Police responded Monday to a 2-vehicle crash on State Route 26 in the town of Maine. The investigation revealed that 32 year-old  Alainna Stemple of Binghamton and 19 year old Nathan Baker of Glen Aubrey collided on State Route 26. Both operators were extricated by fire personnel, Stempel was taken to a Wilson hospital, where she later died, Baker was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center. The investigation continues.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-31-21

State Police are asking the public’s help in locating 29-year-old Anthony Masi after an assault in Oneonta. State Police were called to the Budget Inn on State Route 23 Thursday evening for a report of a woman bleeding, Troopers found a victim bleeding heavily from a large cut on her nose, from a machete-type knife during an argument. The victim was taken to Bassett Hospital, and transferred to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse to undergo surgery, Anyone with information about Masi or his location is asked to contact State Police at 607-561-7400.

Several New Laws go into effect in 2022 in New York state. Officials in towns, villages, and cities across the state have until the end of the day today to opt-out of allowing marijuana sales within their jurisdictions. There will be an increase in the minimum wage, with different wages around the state, the new Paid Family Leave Act clarifies the number of leave days eligible employees can take and a Solitary Confinement Act restricts the use of solitary confinement in state prisons to no more than 15 consecutive days. Also, New York’s ban on single-use Styrofoam food and beverage containers, as well as ‘packing peanuts,’ takes effect tomorrow.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-27-21

The Sidney Village Board this week voted to opt out of the State Marijuana law, about 15 to 20 village residents attended the meeting Monday, Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO what they decided:

(Andy Matviak 10-27-21)

The new state law allows municipalities to have marijuana dispensaries & designated locations for consumption; the village is waiting to see the details of the new legislation.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic tomorrow at 97 Main Street, Delhi from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. The vaccination clinic is open to people over the age of 18. Boosters will be available at this clinic as well as first or 2nd dose vaccines. The CDC issued recommendations for a single booster dose 6months or more after initial series for people 65 years of age and older, those who live in long-term care settings, those with underlying medical conditions, those who work or live in high-risk settings, as well as First responders, Education staff, Food and agriculture workers, Manufacturing workers, Corrections workers & U.S. Postal Service workers. For more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

A.M. NEWS 10-27-21

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection and the State Department of Public Service is alerting consumers of phone calls in which scammers, pretending to be from electric companies are looking for overdue payments and threatening to suspend electricity services unless they receive a payment immediately. Payment has been requested by means of untraceable services such as gift cards, and money transfer apps, including PayPal and consumer complaints can be filed at dos.ny.gov/consumer protection.

The Cannabis Control Board today advanced regulations for public comment that will allow for the home cultivation of medical cannabis. The regulations follow the requirements of Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, allowing for up to three mature plants and three immature plants per person and a cap of six mature and six immature plants within any private residence. They will now be subject to a 60-day public comment period. More information is available at cannabis.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-7-21

Governor Cuomo and members of his administration outlined the State budget plan, which should be passed into law by the end of the day today, the Governor Said that the first Post COVID Budget extends well beyond the 1 fiscal year that it covers:

(Cuomo 4-7-21)

The State Operating Funds spends is $111 billion, the total budget is a record $212 billion; it includes 12.6 billion in federal aid, $29.5 billion in School Aid, which is an 11% increase.  The budget provides $7.7 billion in State support for higher education includes a $311 billion infrastructure plan and allows for a system to be put in place for recreational marijuana use.

Registration is now open for the 10th annual I Love My Park Day, which will be held over the weekend of May 1 and May 2, 2021 at state parks, historic sites and public lands across New York. The event, sponsored by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Parks & Trails New York and the Department of Environmental Conservation, is a statewide event to enhance parks, historic sites and public lands and raise awareness and visibility to the state outdoor recreation assets and their needs.  Registration is available at ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-7-21

State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in the city of Oneonta Tuesday at approximately 1:00 pm.   Oneonta Police Department responded to a report of a domestic incident on River Street, Police encountered a male subject armed with a knife. During the course of the engagement with the subject, an officer fired his duty weapon, striking the subject. The subject was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, where he later died; the circumstances of the incident are under investigation.

The Virtual Town Hall with Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has been rescheduled to Thursday, April 8th from 2:00 to 3:00 PM. This event is complimentary but registration is REQUIRED, cca.commercechenango.com.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-29-21

Governor Cuomo, & state leaders announced an agreement on legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis. The bill would establish the Office of Cannabis Management to implement a regulatory framework that would cover medical, adult-use and cannabinoid hemp. The bill would also expand New York State's existing medical marijuana and cannabinoid hemp programs. The legislation provides licensing for marijuana producers, distributors, retailers, and other actors in the cannabis market, The legislation has the potential to create Tax collections of $350 million annually, & itr is expected to create 30,000 to 60,000 new jobs.

Bassett Healthcare Network has resumed partial visitation for inpatients at its hospital locations, Fox Hospital in Oneonta, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, Little Falls Hospital, and O’Connor Hospital in Delhi.  Visitation hours are limited from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends, hours will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Visitation remains suspended at A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta, Valley Health Services in Herkimer, and all outpatient locations across the network, more information is available at bassett.org/covid-19.

Governor Cuomo announced his 30-day amendments to his Executive Budget proposal, which includes the establishment of an adult-use Marijuana program in the state:

(Cuomo 2-16-21)

The amendments also include funding for Job placement programs, adult education, mental health treatments, & also the reducing of penalties for 3 drug charges.  The budget is due to be passed by the legislature on Aprils 1st.

Delaware County Sheriff's deputies announced that a New York City man’s failure to dim his headlights to on-coming traffic resulted in his arrest for driving while ability was impaired by drugs. Deputies in the Town of Walton Thursday observed an approaching vehicle, the driver failed to dim his headlights, the vehicle was stopped and Deputies noted the odor of marijuana from within the vehicle. 20-year-old Emmanuel Ogando of New York was charged with driving under the influence of drugs, unlawful possession of marijuana, failure to dim headlights, operating without a supervising occupant in the front seat and operating in violation of restrictions of license class. Ogando was released on appearance tickets directing him to appear in the Walton Town Court on a later date.

On Sunday State Police were dispatched to a 1-car crash in the town of Sanford on State Route 17 near exit 84, where a Honda Pilot went off the roadway, struck a delineator & an embankment & rolled. A Passenger, 20 year old Joselyn Castaneda-Guzman of Pawling was transported by LifeNet to Wilson Medical Center where she was in stable condition. The driver, 65 year old Wulder Castaneda of Pawling was also taken to Wilson Medical Center. A 2nd passenger 55 year old Mercedes Guzman of Pawling was not injured. The investigation into this crash is on-going.

On Saturday State Police responded to a motorcycle crash on State Route 17 in the town of Sanford. The investigation revealed that 23-year old Thomas Alsdorf of Washingtonville went off the roadway and struck a guiderail, he & his passenger were ejected. Alsdorf was airlifted to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition, the passenger, 21-year old Angela Decker of Westtown was transported to Wilson Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division
arrested 18 year old Crystal Green of the Town of Chenango, 18 year old Justin
Gumaer of Deposit and 17 year old Jayden Howe of Binghamton, following a
traffic stop Friday in Binghamton.  Green
and Gumaer have been charged with Hindering Prosecution, Obstructing
Governmental Administration & Criminal Possession of Marijuana. While being
taken into custody, Green physically resisted and was charged with Resisting
Arrest.  Howe was taken into custody on
an active Probation Warrant. Green, Gumaer and Howe are currently in the
custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.

The Homer Fire Department reported that one of their firefighters
died following a department training session Saturday.  Fire Fighter Robert Bush reported feeling ill
at a training session, fellow fire department members initiated emergency
medical assistance, and he was brought him to a local hospital where he was
pronounced dead.

State Police arrested 20 year old Bradley Dixon Jr., of
Madison for DWI & Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, after Troopers observed
Dixon's vehicle partially off the roadway on County Route 36 in the town of
Guilford, Dixon was sleeping in the driver’s seat, with the car running.   Dixon was issued appearance tickets to the
town of Guilford court on Tuesday.

State Police arrested 30 year
old Amber Snell of Bainbridge for Aggravated DWI with Child Less than 15 as
Passenger plus 4 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child & several
other violations.   Snell was observed by
a Trooper on County Route 32 in the town of Oxford driving with 4 unrestrained
children in the back seat, she was arrested, & the children were turned
over to a sober 3rd party.  Snell was
arraigned in the town of Oxford court & was released on her own
recognizance and will reappear on July 8th.

State Police responded to the Depot Street fishing access at
the fork of the Chenango and Tioughnioga Rivers Thursday evening, following the
report stated that 3 kayakers were in distress, 2 kayakers were able to get out
of the river on their own but one kayaker was unconscious after his kayak
overturned.  The kayaker has been
identified as 72 year old Dennis Healey of Chenango Forks, CPR was attempted,
but Healey was pronounced dead.  The
investigation revealed that Healey was kayaking with a group of people, Healey
capsized and became entangled in debris, and an autopsy revealed that Healey
likely suffered a cardiac medical emergency.

Appointments
can be made starting today for the Dental & Veterinary portions of the
Greater Chenango Cares event to be held July 11th through July 20th at the
Norwich High School.  Elizabeth Monaco of
Chenango United Way is helping to put this event together & she said that
she needs many volunteers:

(Elizabeth
Monaco 6-3-19)

Monaco
said people should call 337-4129 for dental appointments and 334-9724 extension
3 for Veterinary appointments, Medical & Vision services will be offered on
a walk in basis, more information is available by calling the Chenango United
Way at 334-8815.

Governor
Cuomo told reporters in Albany today that he doesn't believe it's feasible for
lawmakers to legalize recreational marijuana this year.  Cuomo said that that there is insufficient
support in the state Senate, because there are disagreements about the
regulatory details and whether the bill should include provisions expunging
past low-level pot convictions.

Chenango County students
entering 8th or 9th grade in September, can attend the annual Chenango Memorial
Hospital Career Days on August 14th and 15th.
CMH will be hosting a free two day “camp” to explore different careers
in the medical field.  Activities will be
hands on in Radiology, Heart Care, Emergency Room, Respiratory Therapy,
Operating Room, Nursing, Maternity, Physical Therapy, Pharmacy and Nursing
Home.   More information is available at
337-4285; the Application deadline is June 7th.

State Lawmakers are continuing
to re-word legislation before the end of the 2019 session that may legalize
recreational Marijuana in New York State.
The New York State Sheriff's Association opposes that idea, Delaware
County Sheriff Craig Dumond comments:

(Sheriff Dumond 5-29-19)

An amended marijuana
legalization bill was introduced on Friday to echo Governor Cuomo's original
proposal, which would include the forming of the Office of Cannabis Management
to regulate commercial and medical marijuana.

An amended marijuana legalization bill was introduced on
Friday by lawmakers in Albany, which more closely echoes what Governor Cuomo
wanted in the bill earlier this year.
The bill includes the Office of Cannabis Management to regulate
commercial and medical marijuana; it would also expunge the records of those
who have committed marijuana-based offenses in the past.   Opponents to Marijuana legalization site
potential issues with traffic safety and increased links to mental illnesses
such as Schizophrenia & violence.

State Senator Fred Akshar released a new Community Voice
Survey on a proposal to end religious and any other non-medical exemptions for
vaccination for children attending school in New York State.  All 50 states require that students be vaccinated
for diseases like measles, mumps, chicken pox and polio among many others, all
states allow exemptions for medical reasons, but 47 (including New York) allow
exemptions for religious reasons.   The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that measles was eradicated
in 2000; however 940 measles cases were reported nationwide this year, with
more than half of those reported in New York City & Rockland County.   Akshar is asking his constituents to weigh
in on Senate bill S.2994 which would repeal all non-medical exemptions from vaccination
requirements for children; the survey is available at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov.

A “vulnerable adult” was reported missing after he was last
seen leaving Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown in January. 67 year old Chester
Kucharski Jr of Oneonta was last seen leaving Bassett around 3:50 PM on Friday,
January 25th. Kucharski is described as 5’11, 150lbs, Gray Hair,
Hazel Eyes, Police reported that he had been evicted from his residence in
Oneonta and had been transported to Bassett Hospital. He was discharged from
the hospital and has not been located.  Anyone
with information on Kucharski is asked to contact the Cooperstown Police
Department at 547-2500 extension 1.

Officials from the New York Sherriff’s Association, the New
York State Association of the Chiefs of Police along with the Association of
County Health Officials, the state Parent Teachers Association and Triple-A New
York all announced their opposition to a proposal to legalize recreational
marijuana in New York State, at a press conference in Albany today.  The concerns raised included the expected
negative impact on road safety with more impaired drivers, as well as an impact
on children and overall public health. Despite support from many at the state
level, those opposed say the risk is not worth the reward.

The State Legislature will have their 2019 session start on
Wednesday and is scheduled to end June 19th.
Among the topics that are expected to be dealt with this year;
legalizing marijuana for recreational use, legalize sports betting, a state run
single payer Health insurance plan,  gun
control, Ethics reforms, election reform & passing the Dream Act.

54 year old Robert Gelinas of Ithaca is in critical
condition following a 2 car collision in Ithaca, where the Ithaca Police Chief
is credited with saving lives due to his quick action.    State Police were dispatched to a 2-car
accident Thursday afternoon, before troopers arrived, Ithaca City Police Chief
Pete Tyler assisted, Gelinas was bleeding from the head and not breathing when
Chief Tyler began life saving measures.
Troopers and emergency responders arrived Gelinas was flown by Lifenet
to Upstate Medical Center where he remains in critical condition.  24-year-old Jenna Swertfager of Dryden was
the driver of the 2nd vehicle, she was taken to an area hospital as a
precaution due to pregnancy, tickets against Gelinas are expected, and the
investigation is still on-going.

Oneonta Police & Fire department officials will hold a press conference today, regarding the fatal fire at 5 Walling Avenue Saturday morning that took the life of former Oneonta Firefighter John Heller, while he was helping 5 people escape out of the building. The press conference can be viewed live at the City of Oneonta Facebook page, at 5:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo granted clemency to 29 individuals who have demonstrated substantial evidence of rehabilitation and have avoided additional crime activities. The pardons were in recognition of each individuals’ efforts after serving their terms and to remove the barriers that their criminal records present to their immigration status, which affected 22 of the pardoned individuals, some who were facing possible deportation. The Governor said that in each case, a pardon will make immigration-related relief possible, if not automatic.

Willow Run in Kirkwood announced that they will be expanding & adding staff this spring. The company announced that they received a 1.2 million dollar grant for their expansion, which was awarded as part of the regional economic development awards program. The expansion should lead to 40 more jobs; they currently employ about 450 people at their current site.

Otsego County has funding for a Microenterprise Program to assist small businesses with 5 or fewer employees. The application deadline is January 31st; more information is available through Thomas Development at 753-1433.

The Sidney Dollars for Scholars program, for Graduating Sidney High School Seniors, has had a change in the amount of time the seniors have to participate. Program Spokesperson Tracy Young explains:

(Tracy Young 1-2-19)

Young said that they are awarding 81 scholarships this year totaling over $80,000, the website is SIDNEYNY.DOLLARSFORSCHOLARS.ORG.

State Police CNET and Vestal Police stopped a vehicle on Murray Street in Binghamton for a Traffic violation. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery and seizure of approximately 2 pounds of marijuana, Police executed a search warrant at 64 Oak Street in Binghamton, they seized 103 pounds of marihuana, with a street value of $412,000; plus 60 boxes of concentrated cannabis vapor cartridges; 224 canisters of medical grade flavored marihuana; plus cocaine; $37,000 cash; drug paraphernalia and packaging. Police arrested 22-year-old Naami Islam and 21-year-old Melissa Pincus, both of Binghamton for Criminal Possession of Marihuana & Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance. Both were arraigned in the City of Binghamton Court, they were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

A stray cat in the town of Kortright has tested positive for the rabies virus. There were no human exposures to the cat. An unvaccinated cat was exposed to the rabies virus by the rabid cat; the cat will be humanely euthanized. This is the third animal that has tested positive for rabies in Delaware County in 2018.

A funeral for John Heller, the former Oneonta firefighter who died rescuing 5 people in the Saturday morning fire at 5 Walling Avenue, will be held this week. Calling hours will be 5:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday, at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street in Oneonta. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM Friday at the Foothills Performing Arts Center. His life will be celebrated at the East Meredith Fire Department, immediately following the funeral service.

Governor Cuomo was inaugurated for his 3rd term as Governor last Night at Ellis Island, where he promised that New York will lead the way during this time of divisive politics:

(Cuomo 1-2-19)

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul & others were also sworn into office yesterday, on New Year's Day.

About 130 customers were without power this morning, due to high winds from yesterday's weather. NYSEG reported outages across Otsego & Chenango Counties; crews are working to restore power as fast as possible.

The Oneonta Common Council Meeting has been moved to tonight, as City Hall was closed New Year’s Day. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at the 2nd floor Common Council Chambers.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual State of The State Breakfast today at the SUNY Oneonta Otsego Grille in the Morris Conference Center. The event will begin at 8:30; State Senator Jim Seward & Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig will be among the guest speakers.

Sidney Chamber of Commerce will hold their next meeting this morning at THE TRACKSIDE DINER on Main Street. The meeting will begin at 7:45am, chamber members & directors are urged to attend.

State Police released the names of the people involved in a 2-car Head-On crash in the Town of Columbus Saturday. 27 year old Bradley Prosser of Sherburne was the driver of the first vehicle that crossed into the opposing lane and crashed head on into a 2nd vehicle. Prosser was pronounced dead at the scene, he had a .23 BAC according to the autopsy report. Prosser’s passenger, 26 year old Tasha Carney of Edmeston suffered minor injuries from the crash. The driver of the 2nd vehicle was 46 year old Shannon Donnelly-Travis of Schuyler Lake; she was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, for a fractured arm and leg.

State Senator Fred Akshar continued the 2nd year of his "Akshar's All-Stars" student recognition program on Tuesday by recognizing students at 4 school districts. At the Harpursville High School, Akshar recognized senior Colin LaDue for his leadership, dedication and many contributions to his school and community. At the Afton High School, Akshar recognized sophomore Logan Ives for her selfless devotion to charity and giving back to others in need. At Bainbridge-Guilford High School, Akshar recognized senior Tannar Cliffe for his kindness and dependability both in and out of school. At DCMO BOCES in Norwich, Akshar recognized senior Destin Foley for his energy and dedication to both his academic studies and to helping others in the classroom.

Firefighters from Sherburne & 2 other local departments responded to a fire at Crandall's Auto on Blanding Road in Sherburne last night at about 8:30 PM. No injuries were reported, the building was completely destroyed; investigators are trying to determine how that fire started.

The Chenango Arts Council's 2019 Grants for Teachers application deadline has been extended until this Friday, December 21st. The Program provides up to $500 to K-12 teachers in Chenango County who find innovative ways to integrate the arts into the regular school curriculum through projects that are not covered by the school budget. Teachers currently employed by a public or private school in Chenango County are eligible to apply; more information is available at chenangoarts.org/grants/grants-for-teachers. Awards will be made in February 2019.

A Free Christmas Dinner will be available in Sidney this year on Christmas Day at the Sidney Fire Station, organizer Gene Schmidt comments:

(Gene Schmidt 12-19-18)

More information about the free Christmas day Dinner is available at 607-610-4030; this year will be the 6th year that Schmidt & his family have offered the free Christmas dinner.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will tour several area business today. Hochul will Tour Amphenol Aerospace in Sidney this morning at 9:15, Corning Incorporated in Oneonta, at 10:30, and then at 1:30 this afternoon she will tour Chobani in New Berlin.

Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will host the state Mandated Anti-Harassment Policies and Sexual Harassment Training today, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM. New York State mandates ALL employers to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy as well as to train ALL employees on sexual harassment prevention. The Seminar will be held at the Otsego County Chamber/Otsego Now Offices at 189 Main Street on the 5th floor, in Oneonta.

Governor Cuomo announced his agenda for the 1st 100 days of 2019 on Monday. Among the items on his agenda: adopting a Progressive Tax System, Cut Middle Class Taxes, Protecting Affordable Health Care, Gender Equality, Combat Gun Violence, ensure Clean, Safe Drinking Water, Pass the Child Victims Act & Legalize Adult Use of Recreational Marijuana.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 40 year old Brenna Talbot of Walton for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd degree following a traffic stop on County Highway 21 in the Town of Franklin. Talbot was additionally charged with unlicensed operator, operating without a headlight. She was released on tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrests of 34 year old Corey Weldman & 22 year old Cheyenne Moore following the execution of a search warrant at 93 East Main Street in Norwich. Police seized crystal meth, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, suboxone, a loaded handgun and more than $35,000 in cash. Weldman and Moore were charged with Criminal possession of a controlled substance & Criminal possession of drug paraphernalia, more charges are pending.

A Delaware County Grand Jury handed down Sealed Indictments Thursday afternoon, relating to 3 separate drug trafficking investigations in Grand Gorge, Roxbury and Delhi. Arrested were Ramar Hassell & Valerie Alexander of Delhi, for allegedly selling Heroin in the Village of Delhi, also William Effner of Delhi was indicted for possession of packaged heroin plus marijuana, a scale and drug packaging paraphernalia. Deputies also arrested Lorelei Hayden of Grand Gorge for allegedly selling Oxycodone and Hydrocodone, and Michael Johnson of Roxbury for allegedly selling Suboxone, all 5 were arraigned in Delaware County Court Friday, and they were all remanded to the Delaware County Jail pending future court action.

Voters in the Unadilla Valley School District approved of the 10 million dollar capital improvement project last week. The project calls for various improvements to school buildings & the athletic field, with the work covered by a combination of State Aid & the district's Capital Reserve Fund.

State Police & Local law Enforcement agencies or participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

The Government Justice Center filed a lawsuit Friday challenging the legality of a panel's vote last week to raise New York State Lawmakers' pay for the first time in 20 years. The group claims pay raises must be voted on by the state Senate and Assembly themselves. The 63% proposed increase will be phased in over 3 years, from $79,500 a year to $130,000. Some Lawmakers oppose the plan because it would limit how much money they could make outside of their salary as lawmakers.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties, Delaware Opportunities, and the Delaware County business community joined forces to participate in the 2018 Toys for Tots campaign. 420 toys, 37 books and 235 stocking stuffers were collected over a 3 week period; the toys were delivered to Delaware Opportunities in Hamden on Friday and will be distributed to Delaware County families this week in time for Christmas.

Congressman Elect Anthony Brindisi is hosting ‘Thank You Celebrations' today, to show appreciation to supporters and volunteers of his campaign. Thank-you events have also been held in Binghamton, Cortland, and Utica. The Congressman-Elect will be present at a party this afternoon & this evening at the Bohemian Moon at 103 East Main Street in Norwich.

State Troopers closed down Chenango County Road 25 in the town of Columbus following a fatal car crash. State Police responded to a head-on collision at approximately 1:34 AM Saturday, where a 27-year-old male from Sherburne, crossed into oncoming traffic, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, a 26-year-old female of Edmeston sustained minor injuries; she was transported to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown. The operator of the 2nd vehicle, a 46-year-old female of Schuyler Lake was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center, after she sustained severe injuries. Troop C’s Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the crash.

The State Department of Health announced that it has issued the 2nd 2-year report on the Medical Use of Marijuana Under the Compassionate Care Act. The report recommends changes to increase patient access, which includes allowing practitioners to certify patients who previously did not qualify for medical marijuana; permitting all practitioners who can prescribe controlled substances to people to become registered providers; and initiating a pilot study to assess the cost-benefits of health insurance coverage. More information is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a 1 car property damage automobile accident in the Town of Harpersfield. 62 year old Ralph Leonard of Hobart is accused of leaving the scene before officers arrived, Deputies traveled to Leonard’s residence, where a marijuana growing operation was observed. Leonard was charged with Criminal possession of marijuana, Unlawfully Growing Cannabis, f Criminal possession of a controlled substance, Obstructing governmental administration & Aggravated unlicensed operation, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $4,000 cash bail or $8,000 bond.

The State Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction issued a new report describing steps currently being taken to address the state's opioid crisis. The report includes 11 recommendations, Including Increasing resources to support the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals trained to treat substance use disorder; Upgrade the I-STOP Program to improve interstate monitoring of potential over-prescribing of opioids, Reduce the cost of naloxone to treat overdoses, & Explore the further limitation of initial opioid prescriptions for acute pain to 3 days from the current 7days, with certain medical exceptions; more information is available at nysenate.gov/committees/heroin-task-force. Local State Senator Fred Akshar serves on the Task Force.

Sidney area residents over 65 can get assistance with medical bills of prescription costs through the Mary MacKinnon Trust Fund. Community Bank Trust Department Spokesperson Julia Goff explains:

(Julia Goff 10-10-18)

Goff said that the trust fund has been active & growing for over 50 years, more information is available at 433-4212

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division arrested 46 year old Michael Lynch of Sidney following the execution of a search warrant at his County Highway 23, Town of Sidney, and residence. Members of the Criminal Investigation Division, acting on a tip, obtained a search warrant for Lynch's residence, they seized marijuana plants, drying marijuana and a number of rifles and shotguns, Lynch was charged with criminal possession of marijuana & unlawful cultivation of cannabis, he was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Sidney Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo signed legislation that adds acute pain management to the list of conditions for which medical marijuana can be recommended as an alternative to opioid use. The bill will also allow for substance use disorder treatment providers to recommend medical marijuana to help patients manage underlying pain that contributes to the abuse of substances such as opioids. In order to recommend medical marijuana for pain management, a registered practitioner must determine that the patient's pain degrades health and functional capability, along with certain other requirements.

The State Department of Health today announced the filing of emergency regulations adding any condition for which an opioid could be prescribed as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana. Effective immediately, registered practitioners may certify patients to use medical marijuana as a replacement for opioids, provided that the precise underlying condition for which an opioid would otherwise be prescribed is stated on the patient's certification. This allows patients with severe pain that doesn't meet the definition of chronic pain to use medical marijuana as a replacement for opioids. More information is available at health.ny.gov.

The New York State Department of Health today announced it will develop a regulatory amendment to add opioid use as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana. Opioid use joins 12 other qualifying conditions under the state’s Medical Marijuana Program. Currently, patients can be eligible if they have been diagnosed with cancer; HIV or AIDS; ALS; Parkinson's disease; multiple sclerosis; spinal cord injuries, epilepsy; Huntington's disease; post-traumatic stress disorder; or chronic pain. More information is available at health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana.

Bassett Healthcare Network is encouraging people to spring clean their medicine cabinets and get rid of unnecessary medications. Bassett Healthcare Network offers 3 locations for residents to drop off unwanted, expired, or leftover medications by collection kiosks and pre-paid mail-back envelopes at the Bassett Medical Center Pharmacy in Cooperstown, FoxCare Pharmacy in Oneonta and O’Connor Hospital Pharmacy in Delhi. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 28.

Governor Cuomo announced that the State Department of Health has issued a health advisory to hospitals, emergency departments and urgent care centers following severe and life-threatening bleeding cases in Illinois, Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana and Missouri, due to the consumption of synthetic marijuana believed to be contaminated with rat poison. To date, no cases have been reported in New York State. Synthetic marijuana is sold with street names such as K2, Spice and AK-47, which consists of plant material coated by chemicals, which are supposed to mimic the effects of naturally grown marijuana.

State Police arrested 23 year old Tylor Airwyke or Windsor on several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance plus Criminal Possession of Marihuana. Troopers observed Airwyke traveling on State Highway 12 in the town of Greene, he was subsequently stopped, troopers learned that Airwyke’s license was suspended; they seized MDMA, cocaine and marijuana. Airwyke was arraigned in the Town of Greene Court; he was remanded to the Chenango County Jail on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.

The fate of suspended Otsego County Corrections officer Ros Devlin has been turned over to the chairman of the Otsego County Board of Representatives David Bliss. The decision allows Bliss to order a medical examination of Ros Devlin, who is Sheriff Rich Devlin's son, and he can proceed reaching a decision of Ros Devlin's fate. Ros Devlin has been on paid suspension since January of 2017, after he allegedly threatened terroristic action against area school district & threatened suicide, while Sheriff Devlin allegedly resisted taking action against his son.

Governor Cuomo announced the grand opening of The SBH Binghamton Evaluation Center in Building 1 on the Broome County Developmental Center campus, at 249 Glenwood Road in Binghamton. The facility will include 50 Medically Supervised Withdrawal and Stabilization beds and will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services is providing $1.5 million in annual operational funding for the program. Syracuse Behavioral Health was selected as the facility operator through a Broome County Request for Proposals process.

Bassett Healthcare Network announced that William Streck will return to the organization to assume the role of President and CEO, following the decision by current CEO Vance Brown to step down effective April 20th, , to pursue opportunities outside of Bassett. Streck served as Bassett’s President & CEO from 1984 to 2014, he then joined the Healthcare Association of New York State as Chief Medical and Health Systems Innovation Officer. Streck will also be tasked with developing a long-term leadership strategy for Bassett Healthcare Network. Last fall, William LeCates, was appointed acting president of Bassett Medical Center and will be president of Bassett Medical Center when the network CEO transition is completed.

State Police arrested 21 year old Johnathan Ruland of Lancaster, Pennsylvania for DWI, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. Ruland was stopped at a checkpoint on State Highway 7, in the town of Unadilla, troopers accused Ruland of possessing marijuana and cocaine & he was wanted on a warrant with the Village of Sidney Police. Ruland was arraigned in the town of Unadilla and remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $1,500 bail. He is scheduled to reappear in the town of Unadilla on April 9th.